BULLETIN AMPTHILL•FLITWICK•WESTONING•HARLINGTON•TODDINGTON
OCTOBER 2016
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POLICING IN BEDS ENTERS HI-TECH ERA IT IS true to say that 21st century policing has truly come to Bedfordshire, says PCC Kathryn Holloway. The latest introduction, paid for from her Community Safety and Victim Support Funds, are tags worn around the ankle to detect alcohol in perspiration and send back the information at pre-set intervals every day from wherever the wearer may be.
The so-called Sobriety Tags will be used to help keep previous victims of Domestic Violence safe as they will be fitted to offenders working with the Force’s Integrated Offender Management Team to try to break the cycle of crime, and the PCC has invested £24,363 in the pilot scheme. “The role of alcohol and, especially binge drinking, in domestic violence is clear. These offenders promise not to drink or to reduce
consumption and this space age technology from America will help our officers to know precisely when they need to intervene to keep a partner safe if they do not keep to their pledges,” said Commissioner Holloway. Bedfordshire is also in a position to know where offenders are who wear other ankle tags, known as Buddi Tags, which monitor their GPS position by satellite. Earlier this year, Bedford-
Women told she was too old for knee operation
A WOMAN with a very painful knee joint that needed surgery was told she could not have the operation because she was over 70-years-old.
Following intervention by her doctor and a local councillor, this decision, for her at least, has been reversed. The person from Bedford, who we have agreed not to name, was suffering with a very painful knee that was causing her difficulties in walking, and to sometimes ‘give way’ in dangerous circumstances. Her doctor, as are the rules now, sent her for an appointment with MSK England, a private healthcare company working for the local NHS and based at the Bedford North Wing site. They told her what was needed was an arthroscopy but she could not receive this treatment as she was too old. The woman concerned said: “I understand GPs can no longer refer their patients directly and we now have to use this expensive and convoluted service. After a series of protracted and unnecessary interactions I was eventually told the x-ray showed cartilage wear and tear but an Arthroscopy would not be done because I was over 70. “I find this totally unacceptable. It is usually only people over seventy who require Arthroscopy. I also understand that this elaborate and expensive ‘service’ we are compelled to use is a private/public partnership designed to ‘filter’, that is pre-
vent, access to the NHS. ” A spokeswoman for Bed fordshire Clinical Commis sioning Group said:“ The NHS is expected to provide comprehensive health services based on clinical need, within the resources available, which means that access to some treatments and services is prioritised by meeting set criteria and clinical assessment of patients. “Age is not a barrier to NHS treatment, and there are many examples of patients in their 80s and 90s receiving major procedures. Other factors in a patient’s circumstances may mean that they do not meet the set criteria. “There are definitive criteria set against policies approved at the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Clinical Forum which denote the clinical evidence required for patients to meet the set threshold. “There may be times where there is insufficient information presented about a patient, and the GP or consultant may then need to review the case. “A patient’s clinical circumstances may change, in which case the GP will again review their health needs against the set criteria. “It would be inappropriate to comment on the details of an individual case as this would breach patient confidentiality.”
shire, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire were selected by the Government for another pilot to look at the
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View from
Bishop Richard by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford
ALL GOOD GIFTS AROUND US
REVD Robert Hawker, the nineteenth century Vicar of Morwenstow in North Cornwall, was an eccentric Parson. He dressed in bright and mismatched clothing; spent many hours sitting in a small wooden hut overlooking the sea writing verse; and once excommunicated his cat for mousing on a Sunday. Robert Hawker is however also remembered because he introduced the Harvest Festival service when in 1843 he held a service in Morwenstow church to give thanks for the bounty of the harvest. Celebrated on October 1st the bread at the Communion Service was made from the first cut of the corn. This harvest celebration struck a chord and harvest services continue to this day; occasions for farming communities in particular, but also for all of us, to give thanks for the fruit of the earth, for its harvest and those who bring it in. Having said that, the theme of thanksgiving for harvest is an ancient one. Farming communities also had their local ways of celebrating the successful bringing in of the crops. What Revd Hawker did was to make it a much loved part of the church’s year. There is still something very special about a harvest service in a church decorated with vegetables, fruit and flowers; with a harvest bread baked in the shape of a corn sheaf; and with a congregation that includes local farmers. For even in a world of highly mechanised and technological farming, where so many of the issues are global, there is a vital place for quiet thanksgiving and a recognition of the bounty of God’s earth. Harvest Festival is a time for us all to say thank you. All good gifts around us Are sent from heaven above; Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord, For all his love.
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Be four times more likely to quit this Stoptober Stoptober is back! And the Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service is inviting smokers to quit with their support for the best shot at kicking the habit this October. Returning for its fifth year, Stoptober is the mass quit campaign from Public Health England, which has helped thousands of smokers to stop smoking by encouraging them to give up for the month of October – and for the months and years that follow. Evidence shows that residents who use the Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service are four times more likely to quit smoking, so the service is reminding residents to get in touch this Stoptober. Cllr Maurice Jones, Executive Member for Health at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “The Stoptober campaign returns year after year because it works so
well - when someone makes it to 28 days smoke free, they are five times more likely to quit for good. This, combined with the free, friendly support of our Stop Smoking Service, gives smokers a great shot at stop smoking success and making a positive change to benefit their health.”
SUPPORT For support with your Stoptober challenge, it’s quick and easy to refer yourself, or friends and family, into the Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service. Simply call 0800 013 0553 to book an appointment to see a specialist advisor at a time and place convenient to you. During your first appointment, you can spend up to 30 minutes with your advisor on a one-to-one basis. They will discuss
Hi-tech policing continued from page 1 benefits of GPS tagging, as well as what the impact on offenders and reoffending might be. The use of GPS tagging should enable police to detect any breach of licence conditions (like a curfew) more easily, to ringfence areas offenders should not visit (such as playgrounds and schools in the case of those who represent a danger to children) or even those they meet (to prevent offenders from falling back into the company which led them to commit crimes in the first place.) In Bedfordshire, the vast majority of our frontline officers from traffic officers, to Special Constables, the Dogs Unit and PCSOs - are equipped with Body Worn Cameras. Body Worn Video (BWV) enables officers to collect evidence on the spot, which saves time, increases transparency and helps bring offenders to justice. It also gives the public
confidence that they will be dealt with professionally and cuts back on false accusations of unprofessional conduct by the officers themselves. Evidence shows the use of BWV encourages early pleas from offenders, a reduction in challenges to police evidence in court and has a positive impact on domestic violence prosecutions, given the evidence on film. “As Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire, I am committed to exploring all avenues of new technology if it can boost the way we protect our communities and keep people safe, whether it be through community safety grants from my office or new initiatives led by the Force, I look forward to seeing how innovative new technology will revolutionise policing in the 21st century in this county,” said Commissioner Holloway.
your smoking habits and routines with you in order to tailor a stop-smoking plan specific to your needs. The advisor will also provide you with the right tools and techniques to help you quit, including nicotine replacement therapy and/or Champix (prescription charges may apply unless exempt). You will be able to have up to 12 weeks of support including regular catch ups with your advisor and a supply of product. Last year, over 215,000 people across England and Wales signed up to take part in Stoptober. For free, friendly advice on stopping smoking and to order a free ‘Quit Kit’, call 0800 013 0553. Alternatively, visit www.smokefreebedfordshire.co.uk
Boys Brigade is back!
FlITWICK Boys Brigade have been taking inspiration from the recent Olympic success as they have been learning about Brazil and giving some Olympic sports a go. They tried some traditional Brazilian food thanks to a visit from a Brazilian lady who now lives in Ampthill, and also created some Samba music. Olympic sport wise the boys have tried table tennis, basketball, and shooting. looking ahead to October then, battalion activities get under way with football for younger members and ten-pin bowling for the Company Section, where they have a title to defend. Company Section is for boys in School years seven and above. They enjoy a wide variety of activities and challenges, earn badges, including DofE, and take part in competitions against other local BB companies and nationally. Flitwick Boys Brigade currently have space for new members in Company Section so if you would like to come along and join the adventure please come along to Flitwick Methodist Church any Thursday 7pm -9pm. To keep up to date with everything happening at Flitwick Boys Brigade, then please find us on Facebook, follow us on twitter, or email us for more information on 1flitwick@ boys-brigade.org.uk
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MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 3
Superb GCSE exam results at Harlington
STUDENTS at Harlington Upper School achieve superb GCSE results again this year.
Overall, 75% of students gained five or more GCSEs at Grade C. At total of 64% of students gained this benchmark including English and Mathematics. High grades were common with 24 students gaining eight or more A*-A grades. These high achieving students are students are: Emma Ambridge; Victoria Asmenall; Olivia Budhram; Cherie Cheung; Charlotte Eagles; Ella Gatehouse; Aimee Govier; Eloise Hall; Tim Highnam; Callum Hughes; Quinlan Jones; David Lowings; Ben Mardell; Sylvie Masala; Oliver Moorhouse; George Nicholls; Seyi Obembe; Olivia Park; Anisha Patel; Helena Platt; Jack Sheppard; Lucy
Twins celebrating high results Twins Matthew and Alex Cummins are celebrating a massive 18 A Stars, 3 As and a B at GCSE. The high-achieving 16-year-old are pupils at Redborne School in Ampthill. Matthew (right) achieved 10 A stars and 1 A, Alex (left) had 8 A stars, 2 As and a B. They are pictured with Helena Milton-Jones, who was awarded 10 A stars and 1 A. The comprehensive school's Principal Nigel Croft said: "Congratulations to the twins for all their hard work. These are the school's best-ever set of GCSE results. It follows on from last week's best-ever A levels. 83 per cent of our students achieved grade C or above in Maths and English. The progress of our students in English is 22 per cent higher than the national average and the Maths results are very similar.”
Great GCSE results at Redbourne School
STUDENTS and staff at Redborne School in Ampthill are celebrating the best-ever set of GCSE results. It follows the record-breaking A levels at the comprehensive school. 75 per cent of the students achieved 5 A star to C grades and 83 per cent had a C or higher in Maths and English. Among the top students were: Matthew Cummins, 10 A stars and 1 A; Helena Milton-Jones, 10 A stars and 1 A; Eleanor
Crabbe, 9 A stars and 2 As; Ava Farrow, 9 A stars and 2 As; Benjamin Harrison, 9 A stars and 2As; Catherine Bygrave, 9 A stars, 1 A and 1B; Eleanor Vaughan, 9 A stars, 1 A and 1B; Erin McIntosh, 9 A stars, 1A; Tom Ali, 8 A stars, 3 As; Alex Cummins, 8 A stars, 2 As, 1 B; Jennifer Lewis, 8 A stars, 2 As; Sukhi Ruparelia, 8 A stars, 2As.
Treacher; Lucy- Anne Walker; Cameron White-Spunner.
Headteacher, Shawn Fell, said: “The GCSE results at Harlington are overall very good again this year. Our students have gained superb results and are now ready for the next stage of their education. Students should be congratulated on their achievements, following all their hard work. “There have been many delighted students and parents collecting results this morning.”
Harlington Upper School is a successful 13-19 school and Academy in Central Bedfordshire with 1400 students including over 400 in the sixth form.
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Development land needed for elderly THE Office for National Statistics have published figures that show that in 2025 there will be a 22% increase in the number of people aged 65 in the UK. This translates to a population of 14.3 million people aged over 65, compared to 11.7 million in 2015. The number of people aged over 85 is set to double in the next 20 years. There is therefore an ever increasing need to provide sufficient and appropriate accommodation for old people. As the population gets older, the housing needs for people are changing. The gap is growing between supply and demand of available properties that provide care and extra care facilities. It is also more common now for local authorities to devolve their powers for providing accommodation with care or extra care facilities to specialist providers. Managing the Accommodation Needs of Older People (MANOP) team at Central Bedfordshire Council is actively promoting the open market development of extra care schemes across the district, as well as requiring mainstream housing designed to meet the needs of older people. The MANOP team is seek-
ing to ensure that adequate provision is made for older people in its residential development schemes. The Council have said that small scale development within or on the edges of towns or villages is preferable, as people like to stay close to their local community. It’s also important for housing for older people to be located close to services and facilities. The MANOP team said: “as over 75% of our older population own their homes there is a significant demand for open market extra care housing and there are currently no open market schemes in our area.” There are opportunities now to pursue sites through the planning process that are in accessible locations, on the edges of towns or villages to meet the housing needs of older people. In some cases the provision of such accommodation may help to facilitate the delivery of the residential scheme. If you have land that you consider may be suitable for this purpose or you wish to discuss this opportunity further, then please get in touch with us. Call or email Andrew Barr on 01234 362926 ahb@robinsonandhall.co.uk
Monthly update from the Police and Crime Commissioner by Kathryn Holloway
NEW DEAL FOR PARISHES
A FAIRER deal on policing – whether you live in the town or country – was the focus of my first annual Parish Councils’ Conference on 10 September, which I hosted alongside the Chief Constable Jon Boutcher and other senior officers at the Council Chambers in Chicksands. I expressed from early on in my Police and Crime Plan that I wanted an annual forum with parish councillors as they are an absolutely vital link between Bedfordshire Police and the rest of the community. Parish councillors are our eyes and ears to pass on crucial information about crimes and anti-social behaviour happening in the villages and smaller towns and, also, I wanted to pass on the word to local residents of what the Force is doing and why to tackle crime. I intend to hold one every year of my administration. The top tier team from Bedfordshire Police joined me at the meeting to show just how seriously rural crime issues are now being taken by the Force and to pass on the information about its operations to get on top of matters from fly-tipping to illegal travellers’ encampments. The aim of these events is also to let parishes know just what other pressures Bedfordshire Police are facing across the board on a day to day basis. Chief Constable Boutcher confirmed that the Force has not only appointed a Rural Crime liaison officer to work with parishes and a network of members of the National Farmers’ Union and other Countryside organisations, but tasked Inspector Tracey Day with drawing up a business case for a new Rural Crime Unit dedicated to preventing and investigating crimes in the countryside. Parish Councillors heard further presentations on correct use of the 101 number for non-life-threatening incidents and the need to support the Force in recruitment of Village Specials with full policing powers from Head of the Special Constabulary and Force Control Room, Wayne Humberstone. Inspector Hob Hoque of the Community Cohesion Team stressed that his officers want to build bridges to parish neighbourhoods as well as with urban diverse communities. All parishes were asked to come up with three top policing priorities in their area which will be addressed at a follow-up event on December 16 at a venue to be announced.
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Wenta, helps national charity to deliver selfemployment advice
Pretty Muddy Milton Keynes 2016 On a very wet Saturday morning recently, these local ladies braved the weather and the mud and raised over £1,000 for Cancer research in the ‘Pretty Muddy’ Race For Life at Willen Lake.
On countdown!
lEADING enterprise agency for Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, Wenta, have provided essential training on self-employment to over 220 employment advisers at national charity, The Shaw Trust, following a recent partnership. This training has provided advisers at The Shaw Trust with vital advice, information and tools needed to help their clients – particularly those that are disabled or ‘hard to reach’ and looking to set up their own business.
The Shaw Trust, formed in 1982, now supports over 50,000 people a year to live independent and inclusive lives nationwide. Wenta, a social enterprise that has been providing support and advice to those considering, starting and growing their own business for over 32 years, are proud to have played a vital part in this support. 20 bespoke workshops were delivered by Wenta trainers at multiple ‘Shaw Trust’ locations from Portsmouth to Glasgow.
Advisers at The Shaw Trust now also have access to Wenta’s award-winning online, live chat, business advice platform which has proved to be a popular tool for advisers to access ongoing support, resources and immediate advice when needed. Commenting on the partnership, Sharon Gaffney, Head of Education and Skills at Wenta, said: “This has been an exciting and innovative project. The course was interactive and involved Shaw Trust Advisers creating ‘mock businesses’ – enabling them to understand the concept fully. It is extremely rewarding to know we are helping people nationally to achieve their dream of running their own business.” If you’re thinking of starting a business, looking for support with an existing one, or would like ‘self-employment training’ delivered within your organisation, get in touch with Wenta today at www.wenta.co.uk.
LIVE CHAT
WHAT did you do on the hottest September day for 55 years? Sat in the garden? Went to the park? Nothing quite so glamorous for the team at Poplars! As the temperature hit 28°C, they were busy unpacking boxes and boxes of Christmas stock! Getting ready for the festive season in September is nothing new for Poplars, but they don’t usually need strategically placed fans dotted in amongst the tinsel and baubles to keep them cool! Usually a photograph on a day like that would have included props such as parasols, iced drinks and sun hats but Roberto, Mary, Mandy and Jan got in the festive spirit and grabbed just a few of the fantastic products available from their Christmas Shop. ‘Poplars Christmas’ opens on Saturday 1st October and it’s bigger and better than ever! Keep an eye out in store to find out what’s happening at Poplars this Christmas or find them on Facebook.
Carers in Bedfordshire provide support
DID you know there are over six million unpaid carers in the UK? That means one in ten adults in the UK is a carer. Around half of carers in England said their health had been affected because of the care they provide. Many give up an income, future employment prospects and pension rights to become a carer. It is also thought that up to 700,000 children could be caring for family members or friends. Recent statistics from the Young Carers breaks project at Carers in
Bedfordshire report that an average of 74% of young carers suffer from stress, anxiety or depression due to their caring role. Carers in Bedfordshire is a charity which helps family carers and former carers cope with the mental and physical stresses arising from their role. A family carer is anyone, of any age, who as a part of their normal life, offers help and support to a relative or friend who could not manage without them. Our local office at the Sea Cadet HQ in Station Road,
Biggleswade offers an opportunity to seek one to one support advice, information, groups, training and a regular Carers newsletter. Carers can enjoy being part of our Carers choir, access relaxation therapies or find information about carers grants. We would love to hear from any family carers who feel they would like to register with us and find out more about our service. For further information go to www.carersinbeds.org.uk or call the Biggleswade office on 01767 315079.
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Dancers take top prizes at world championships
DANCERS from Bedfordshire’s premier dance school, Dancevybz, beat teams from across the globe to take top podium positions in team and individual categories at the 2016 UDO World Street Dance Championships at the SECC in Glasgow at the weekend. Four teams from the school achieved top ten positions: over 18 quad Wolva claimed fourth place in their age category and U14 team Outlawed secured fifth place, while U14 team lilvybz and U18 team Frenzy ranked eighth and tenth respectively. In the individual categories, the school’s youngest dancer, George Gibson, just five years old, came fifth in the U6 solos competition, while Ruby Seymour, seven, came fourth in the U8 solos category. Bella Gibson and Tom Skoines, both just seven years old, came fifth in the U8 duos competition, and took fifth and sixth place respectively in the U8 solos final. Callum Duggan, eight, came fifth in the U10 solos competition and Jack Skoines, 13, came fifth in the U14 solos category. Dancevybz founder Stephanie Massey said: “Our achievements at the World Championships this weekend are strongest results we’ve had at international level since we started the school 10 years ago. I’m incredibly proud of all the dancers that attended the competition, and the way in which they represented the county and our country, but also of the commitment, hard work and passion of our teachers, without whom none of this would be possible.” Dancevybz teams have performed all over the world. Our adult team Execute have previously ranked third in the world, and our boys crew Kazzum has won the UK Hip Hop Championships, competed in las Vegas, and reached the live finals of Sky One’s ‘Got to Dance’ in 2012.
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Celebration of 70 years
CRANFIElD University celebrated its 70th anniversary in September with a Festival of Flight hosted at the University’s Bedfordshire campus. Members of staff and their families, alumni and the local community all visited the campus to see behind the scenes at the specialist postgraduate institution during an Open Doors morning. This showcased the latest areas of research at the University and gave children the opportunity to see scientific demonstrations in action. In the afternoon, over 5,000 people watched an air display, with many of the aircraft on a static display having special links to the University’s heritage. His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, Cranfield’s Visitor, appointed by Her Majesty The Queen, also arrived to see some of the attractions. The Duke met the air cadets assisting the staff with the event and spoke to owners at the vehicle exhibition before visiting the static aircraft display. Cranfield’s Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Peter Gregson, said: “Celebrating our anniversary year with a Festival of Flight was a wonderful way to reflect on our 70-year heritage. We showcased some of the ground-breaking research that will play a significant role in the future of aerospace and used the occasion to demonstrate other areas of research for which we are recognised internationally.” Professor Iain Gray, Director of Aerospace at Cranfield University, commented: “Cranfield is a unique university with our own airport on campus. Air displays at Cranfield used to be a regular occurrence in the past, so we were delighted to open our doors and host another one. . looking forward, we want to be recognised as the number one aerospace university in Europe.” Cranfield has links with around 1,500 companies and organisations across the world and the event was supported by companies including Anglian Water, British Airways, Monarch, Nissan Technical Centre and Unilever. The busy weekend concluded on Sunday with families ‘riding the runway’ raising money for Flying Start, British Airways’ and Comic Relief’s global charity partnership. A group of around 40 cyclists then rode to Cranfield’s other campus at Shrivenham in the Wiltshire / Oxfordshire border, which just happens to be 70 miles away.
Bedford financial adviser achieves chartered status
THE Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) has awarded the prestigious ‘Chartered Financial Planner’ title to David Hill of David Hill Wealth Management, one of Bedford’s leading providers of financial advice. Chartered status is an exclusive title only awarded to individuals that meet rigorous criteria relating to professionalism and capability. All Chartered Financial Planners commit to the CII’s Code of Ethics, reinforcing the highest standards of professional practice in their business dealings. David Hill focuses solely on providing face-to-face advice and offers a dedicated, personal wealth management service to build long-term, trusted relationships. He offers specialist advice in a wide range of areas, including Investment Planning, Retirement Planning and Inheritance Tax Planning. As an Associate Member of SOllA, the Society of later life Advisers, David Hill is also qualified to advise in the more complex area of Care Fees Planning. David Hill says that securing Chartered Financial Planner status is a landmark for him person-
Bags of fun aboard town’s boat!
ally: “I have always prided myself on being thoroughly professional in everything I do and to receive external recognition in this way is very gratifying. As a Chartered Financial Planner, I can signal my commitment to the highest levels of service to my clients.” To date, just over 5,000 individuals have achieved Chartered status, indicating that this is a highly exclusive award reserved for the leading individuals within the financial advice market. For further information, contact David Hill on: 01234 Photos shows Graham Mabbutt, Christina and BedfordBID employed Bluecap, who acts as a welcoming team for visitors to the town centre with the John Bunyan Boat at Sovereign’s Quay. 480540.
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THE John Bunyan Boat has brought a wave of tourists to Bedford since being launched in Jult 2013 Since then more than 18,000 have enjoyed day trips, private parties. wedding receptions and afternoon teas on board. BedfordBID, which represents more than 500 levy paying businesses in the town centre, helped to launch the boat with an initial donation and since then has helped with boarding signage at Sovereign’s Quay. In addition BedfordBID has again given some of its love Bedford shopping and goodie bags to those travelling on the boat to remind them to come
back to town again, and again.
Graham Mabbutt, Commercial Director of the John Bunyan Community Boat Team said: “BedfordBID has generously helped the John Bunyan Boat with finances and with fabulous publicity. It also encouraged its Portas pot associates to support us with £2,000 as part of a link up with the High Street.
“We are delighted to be able to repay businesses in Bedford by bringing in new customers to the town centre.”
Christina Rowe, Director of BedfordBID said: “The John Bunyan Boat has kept a tide of visitors coming into town.”
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MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 7
GIVE YOUR KITCHEN A FACELIFT Flitwick cubs and scouts enjoy their summer camp
FlITWICK Cubs and Scouts (boys and girls aged 8 to 14) spent a week at Youlbury Activity Centre in Oxfordshire for their summer camp. The activities they took part in included a 3G swing, crate staking, go- karting, making a film and an outdoor cinema, orienteering, team building and wide games. However, the highlights of the week were the water slide (amazing how much fun children can have with a sheet of plastic, water and washing up liquid), the zip wire and for four brave young people building their own bivouac and then sleeping overnight in it! Some of the Cub Scouts also participated in one of the National Cubs 100 events to mark the centenary of Cubs. They camped and took part in events with Cub Scouts from different parts of the Country including Derbyshire, Kent and Norfolk. Natalie Baker aged 10 said: “Sleeping in the bivouac was something I have never done before. It was great building it and although the four of us who slept under it were a bit unsure about it, it was actually fun as I was with my friends and we talked for ages!” Adult volunteer Nicky Taylor said: “Seeing the children doing something for the first time and maybe conquering a fear there is a great sense of pride knowing that you have helped and encouraged them.” The Young leaders (boys and girls aged 14 to 18) currently working with the sections in the Group had their own camp at Phasels Wood. Some of the high-
lights for them were scaling the Ice Wall, caving and gutting and cooking fish on an open fire. All of the sections have started back after the summer break. The Beavers (boys and girls aged 6 to 8) were working on their Emergency Aid badge. This included knowing when and how to put someone in the recovery position, knowing how to call the emergency services and how to help someone who is bleeding. They have also been working on their Skills Challenge badge, which includes lighting a candle, tying a reef knot, tying their shoelaces and learning how to roll their scarf neatly. The Cubs have been setting their own Code of Conduct and working on their Teamwork Challenge badge and their International Activity badge. Some of the Scouts have recently been awarded their cyclist badge. To earn this they had to ensure their bicycle was fit to ride and then cycled round Marston Forest Centre. They also had an end of term barbeque and water fight. All of the sections took part in a water activity weekend where they tried their hands at canoeing, kayaking, sailing, rowing and making and paddling their own rafts. Hardly surprisingly, most of them got extremely wet! They also earned their Time of the Water activity badge. For further information about Flitwick Scout Group, please visit www.flitwickscoutgroup. org.uk BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
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Cooking up a local tradition
A lOCAl scout group have been baking their way through Guernsey history with a special gache-making session at the Saint’s Bay Hotel, Guernsey. Members of the 10th Ampthill & Woburn Scout group, from Toddington, have been visiting the island for 12 years. Making Guernsey gache for the first time, under the supervision of Saint’s Bay head chef Ashraf Elsergany, was the latest stop on the group’s tour through Guernsey traditions. Scout group member, Annie Fowler said they had been keen to try out the island’s popular fruit loaf. “We have been coming over for the last 12 years and every year we try to do something different during our ten days here, she said. “Making Guernsey gache is something we wanted to try and we managed to find somewhere that we could make it ourselves.”
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Alstroemeria – plants with serious flowering power
Above: 2015 Silver-Gilt BBC Gardeners’ World exhibit – The Nightclub. Left: Indian Summer.
Firefighters demonstrating how they extinguish a chimney fire.
Keep your chimney safe
After the summer as temperatures fall again, you may be thinking about lighting your open fire or wood burner to warm your home and enjoy the flicker of a real coal or wood fire. However last year
we had dozens of chimney fires across the county and lighting an unswept chimney could lead to a serious fire caused by a blocked flue or build-up of half-burnt material in the chimney.
Follow these tips to keep your chimney fire safe:
I Ensure chimneys are I Ensure good quality and an appliance is purposely protect against flying set at a low or minimum sparks from hot embers. swept regularly by a appropriate fuel is used. output normally for overprofessional chimney I Never store the fuel next I Avoid blocking air vents, night burning to be revived sweep. to the appliance – so air bricks or otherwise in the morning without the I Between “sweeps” keep sparks do not set it alight. interrupting the air supply. need for relighting. chimneys, flues and I Ensure the fire is I Avoid ‘slumbering’ an appliances clean and well I Appliances that have been completely out before appliance unless it has maintained. lined still require regular been tested as safe to do going to bed or leaving the I Always use a fire guard to sweeping. so. Slumber mode is when house.
Get help finding a local professional chimney sweep from our website: www.bedsfire.com/CommunitySafety/HomeFireSafety/Pages/ChimneySafety.aspx
For more advice visit www.bedsfire.com Follow us on Twitter @Bedsfire or on Facebook www.facebook/bedsfire for more safety tips Get safety information & alerts direct from us via BedsAlert. Sign up at www.bedsfirealert.co.uk
MOST people have heard of Alstroemeria (or Peruvian lily as they are often known) thanks to the supermarkets and we know that they look magnificent and last for weeks as a cut flower. But did you know they are really easy to grow, hardy and will flower in your garden from April/May to September/October; how is that for a long-lasting flower power? Remember to look for garden hardy varieties of Alstroemeria; the cut flowers in the supermarket are indoor, greenhouse grown varieties and will not survive in your garden. However garden hardy Alstroemeria are available in many different colours – mostly vibrant pinks, purples, oranges and yellows although the pure white of garden variety Maze is absolutely stunning and a favourite of mine. If you want Alstroemeria for cutting then look for the taller varieties (from 70cm100cm such as Tierce, Maze or Nicholas) but if you simply want great colour throughout the growing season, then consider the dwarf varieties such as the Inticancha range or my favourite, leo which is a 1520cm tall bright red stunner! For the middle of the border look at varieties such as Caroline or Dorothee which only grow to between 50-60cm and for something really interesting, look at Indian Summer with orange/red flowers on dark bronze leaves. The dwarf varieties make excellent container plants because, like all Alstroemeria they don’t mind being on the drier side (although you shouldn’t let them dry out completely) and they often prefer to be held tight in a container. My top tips for Alstroemeria are firstly they like lots of sun to flower so find a really nice sunny spot in the garden – either in the border or in a pot. Second the really don’t like getting wet toes in the winter so good free-draining soil is essential. If your soil is a little poor in nutrients or you are growing in containers, remember to feed them with something like Miracle Gro or Tomorite in the growing season. Finally, and here is the really important bit, remember to deadhead your plants regu-
by Alec White Primrose Hall Nursery
larly. With Alstroemeria this is slightly different to most other plants; you need to ‘twist and pull’. Take the flowering stem that has finished flowering (and probably has seed pods developing where the flower was) and hold it near the base of the plant, then twist and pull the entire stem from the base. The minor damage to the base of the plant will encourage a new flowering stem to emerge and ensure that you have continuous flowers. Alstroemeria originate from South America and so they are used to cold night-time temperatures. If you are buying a smaller plant it is advisable to mulch it in its first year but once established these plants will live for a long time. Just remember not to let the plant get soggy toes in the winter! Alstroemeria are pretty low maintenance, they don’t really suffer a great deal from pests and diseases – slug and snail damage is often not fatal to the plant. However you will need to provide support or stake the taller varieties, especially if you are in a more exposed position. Finally a word to the wise; choose your Alstroemeria carefully. Some of the older varieties, such as aurea lutea and aurea Orange King once established, can be pretty tricky to get rid of and in some cases can be invasive – which is great if you have a large garden because they will spread and give you acres of colour. However if your garden is more modest, then you might consider the newer garden hardy cultivars (such as the Inticancha dwarf series or any of the recommendations I have listed above) which will bulk up but will not run riot across your garden (and your neighbour’s garden)!
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: dave@rosettapublishing.com
MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 9
FLITWICK TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB – BEDS COUNTY FOOTBALL LEAGUE
New season sees increased interest in playing for club A NEW season also sees new management for Town’s First team with manager Steve Roach and his assistant Chris Matthews joining the club. Setting their standards from the outset saw Town beat the 2015 champions Renhold 4-3 away from home with goals from M. Byrne, A. Dadd, P. Matthews and D. Stafford. Unfortunately in their next match they came out second best, losing 2-0 in the local derby against Ampthill Town Reserves. All was soon forgotten though when three days later they returned to winning ways beating AFC Kempston Town 2-1 at home with goals from P. Matthews and D. Stafford. For Town Reserves, Chris Cheshire and Robbie Chesney(pictured far right) have begun their second campaign as joint management. A 2-1 away defeat to Atletico Europa with R. Short getting their only goal wasn’t the start they were hoping for but a better performance in their second match earned them a point drawing 1-1 away at Caldecote Reserves with S. O’Donnell on the score sheet. With the club adding depth
signing several talented new players this season the Reserves will be targeting promotion from Division 2. last season the club introduced an ‘A’ team into Division 4 which demonstrates how much interest
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there is in playing for the club. With Dan Howarth (left) continuing to manage the A’s for his second season he’ll be hoping for a top half finish in their league campaign. The opening match to the 2016-17 season saw a hard fought bat-
tle away to AFC Kempston Town A where they were defeated 3-2 with goals from J. Kwarcinski and J. Garnish. With local rivals Dinamo Flitwick also in Division 4 they’ll be looking to get into winning form hastily.
10 — MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Wardrobe manufacturer and local school enjoy winning partnership
Restoration success The flowering heather on the restored new heath at RSPB The Lodge is looking stunning this year. Work will continue during the winter months to clear the habitat of unwanted birch saplings, bramble and other growth to allow the area to improve for wildlife in future years.
DUNSTABlE based Commonfield Services ltd manufactures sliding and hinged door wardrobes which are sold throughout the UK via its retail arm Tidy Bedrooms. The company has been trading for over 20 years and has built a reputation for the highest quality products. In line with the company’s vision to grow and improve, Commonfield searched for a local charity to support as part of its corporate social responsibility iniative and has been working in partnership with special school Weatherfield Academy for more than three years. Managing Director, Philip Meredith, explains: “We wanted to give something back to the local community and chose to work with Weatherfield Academy as the school is literally down the road from our showroom and is such a worthy cause. The school
provides individual care and education for more than 130 children, which would be impossible to achieve without the support of local businesses”. Commonfield has donated in the region of £20,000 to Weatherfield over recent years, helping the school fulfil its wishlist of items. Commonfield funded the purchase of a ‘hobbit house’; an external teaching facility giving the school additional space, greatly needed with its ever-growing numbers. In addition, Commonfield paid for a new maths software system, installed new storage lockers in the corridors enabling safe access to classrooms, which is vital given that the school has blind and wheelchair-bound pupils. Commonfield also used its expertise to provide brand new work surfaces and cupboards in the home tech classrooms and supplied shelving
for the library. The company’s input saw a transformation of the library leading liz Millett, Weatherfield’s librarian, to win the coveted librarian of the Year award in 2014. Headteacher, Joe Selmes, confirms: “Commonfield’s support of the school has been outstanding. The generosity shown by the company has been over and above what I could have hoped for and has had a huge positive impact on the school. We value the work we do with the community and partner a number of local businesses. In return we can offer students available for work experience and so the partnership is mutually beneficial.” Commonfield has recently taken on a number of Weatherfield pupils for work experience in its large manufacturing hub on the Brewers Hill Industrial Estate and has been highly impressed with the calibre of the placements. Operations Director, Martin Meredith, comments: ”The focus Weatherfield places on vocational training and life skills can be seen in the quality candidates we have had. Despite the moderate to severe learning difficulties and often personal challenges Weatherfield pupils must overcome, their attitude to work is truly positive and
they are a pleasure to have in the business”. Weatherfield Academy has run its employer engagement programme for several years now, aided by DRM Business Training & Consultancy; a local company that has supported the school in respect of training, coaching and marketing. The enterprising culture of the school has grown year on year and is evident from the produce it sells from the farm situated in the school grounds, through to the fund-raising events regularly held. Bradley Morris now in Year 10 was recognised for his enterprise by winning the first ever Weatherfield Enterprise Award, sponsored by DRM Business Training & Consultancy, at the end of last term. Working in partnership with local businesses sees Weatherfield bring its school motto to life: “To be the best you can be”! For more information about Weatherfield and how you can help, please contact Paula on 01582 605632. For more information about Commonfield Services and Tidy Bedrooms, or to visit the showroom and see the wide range of sliding and hinged door wardrobes available, please call lisa on 01582 697750.
Call Patricia on 07724 905406 for rates
Auditions for Grove’s Aladdin
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: dave@rosettapublishing.com
DANCE auditions for this year’s pantomime, Aladdin, were held at the Grove Theatre, Dunstable last month and Those Magic Beans have cast a lovely group of energetic dancers to add more panto magic to the upcoming season! It was fantastic to see so many talented dancers attending the auditions, giving the production company a hard task in choosing the final few. The theatre caught up with lauren McCormack and Holly O’leary, two dancers who are thrilled to become part of Aladdin and wished to share their experiences.
MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 11
Paralympic legacy
What is your theatre/ dance background?
What was the audition What are you most looking l: I have been dancing since the age of three experience like? forward to in Aladdin? and part of the NKB School of Dance family since I was six. I have performed at var- l: The audition was very enjoyable and fun, l: I am looking forward to performing on ious shows at the Grove Theatre, but also nerve racking, like the X Factor! stage and being in the dressing room with Dunstable and the Queens Theatre, the team having fun! Haymarket. H: Always scary, for dancers and parents H: I enjoy everything – from start to finalike. Dancers are given a number before ish…although there are always tears when H: I have enjoyed street dance with NKB going on to the stage for a warm up and to it’s over. I love to catch up with the School of Dance since I was three and learn a routine, which is usually upbeat dancers who have returned from previous joined Anne Gale School of Dance when I and can be quite complicated. After 45 years and also meet new friends. I am was seven, training in ballet, tap and modminutes, there is a cut before successful excited to see what the costumes will be ern. I also take private lessons which candidates learn a bit more and then there like, what the set is like and what the enable me to enter dance competitions is another cut. Those that are left are ‘famous’ people are like to be around. throughout the Three Counties. This will through! Parents are then invited in. Kerry, the choreographer is hilarious and be my fifth panto! has the girls wetting themselves with laughter during rehearsals. The camaraderie amongst everyone is amazing. I can’t wait for it to begin. It is set to be a fun-filled production with lots of local talent joining the all-star cast to bring the magic of Aladdin alive! For more information or to book for this year’s panto, call the Box Office on 01582 60 20 80 or visit the website at www.grovetheatre.co.uk. ––––––––––––––––––––––
What are you up to? We want your news, stories and photographs. Please call Pat on 07724 905406 or email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com This is your local newspaper
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FOLLOWING the inspirational performances of GB paralympians at Rio, local folk have a chance to test themselves in wheelchairs. Businesses, clubs and organisations are sought to sign up for the Rotary Wheelchair Challenge at Bedford Athletic Stadium in Barker’s Lane on Sunday October 9th. In 2012 Howard Darbon, President of Sport Bedford and friends helped to host paralympians at the pre Games camp at the Polhill campus of the University of Bedfordshire The Bedford wheelchair event was launched after the London Olympics to keep the legacy of paralympic sports alive in the UK. Since then it has attracted support from Baldock, Biggleswade and Bedford organisations and money raised has helped train a range of sports coaches for disabled people. This year the organisers would like to see schools, sports groups, joggers and others who enjoy fitness to get together to take part. Any sponsorship would be gratefully received. Contact Mary Whitehead m.e.whitehead@ btinternet.com www.rotary-site.org/wheelchairchallenge
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12 — MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
out & about comedy p
real quick witted geezer.” HHHHH Arts in Leicestershire. “Steals the Show” HHHHH ThreeWeeks. The shows sell out quickly, with the Dinner & Show tickets being particularly popular, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment! Doors open 7.30pm, Shows start at 8.00pm and tickets are £8 (£6 NUS) or if you fancy a treat, you can buy £18 tickets, which include a pre, show meal and glass of wine from the fabulous George’s Hall Bar & Grill. www.castlecomedy.co.uk
Castle Comedy Biggleswade George’s Hall, Biggleswade 7.30pm October 3
Castle Comedy Biggleswade has a special show in October. The venue as always is the gorgeous George’s Hall Bar & Grill and it will be hosting one of the best comedians on the UK comedy circuit, Nick Page. Plus an hour of comedy from Castle Comedy host and local boy made good, Paul Revill! Nick Page is appearing on Monday October 3rd. Nick is a former presenter of BBC1’s Escape to The Country turned UK comedy circuit legend! He recently came runner up in the prestigious English Comedian of the Year competition earning him a tour of Australia as a prize! His unique rapid fire delivery will leave you wondering how anyone can get through so many words so quickly, and how he’s escaped justice, or at least retribution, for so long! ‘Roguish comic Page is a bearlike man with a fund of barely believable stories about life, love and brushes with the law’ Guardian Pick of The Week ‘The very best story teller on the comedy circuit’ - Rhod Gilbert Following that will be a performance from Paul Revill of his Edinburgh Festival Show, Revillations! Paul is the face of Castle Comedy and Biggleswade
favourite who returned from the Edinburgh festival having sold out his show every night! Expect cheeky laughs and silly voices as Paul tells the true story of how he got the acting role of a lifetime… and how it all went wrong! Drink! Drugs! Police! Perfume? All will be revealed! BATH COMEDY FESTIVAL NEW ACT OF THE YEAR 2014 This bright sparky chappy was a
FLOOTES Free flowing Prosecco Christmas Menu
exhibition m
Weaving Narratives Exhibition
Flitwick Central Library 13th October to 15th October
Textile artists interpret scenes and stories from historical Bedfordshire as part of art project. Throughout 2016 The Bedfordshire Archives and Records Service has been running Weaving Narratives, an exciting community art project in which local textile artists were given special access to the collections at Bedfordshire Archives and were invited to create pieces inspired by their wide range of historic sources. Participants have created an extraordinary range of artistic pieces that demonstrate a variety of textile techniques. The finished
Picasso and the Masters of Print The Higgins Bedford 15th October
Picasso & the Masters of Print opens at The Higgins Bedford on 15th October 2016; offering a unique opportunity to view some of the most important prints by one of the most highly regarded artists of the 20th century. Renowned for his paintings and sculptures, Picasso was also the twentieth century’s greatest printmaker and the seven prints by Picasso held at The Higgins Bedford spectacularly showcase the varied printmaking techniques that he mastered. The print Still life under the lamp, 1962 is a highlight of the exhibition and one of Picasso’s best known linocuts. By then in his 80s Picasso continued to innovate, using a complex new technique to create
works illustrate many aspects of the history of Bedfordshire including the granting of Royal Charter to Bedford in 1166; prisoners in Bedford Gaol; conditions in the Ampthill workhouse; the industrial heritage of luton; hat manufacture in Dunstable; and leighton Buzzard market. The Weaving Narratives Exhibitions will be visiting Flitwick Central Library on 13th to 15th October. This will be accompanied by a talk on home life in the archives on Thursday 13th October at 2.30pm Members of Aragon lace Makers will be running a demonstration at the exhibition. Exhibitions are free of charge. For further information please contact Rachel Bates, archivist on 01234 276541, email rachel.bates@bedford.gov.uk this colourful night-time scene. The Frugal Meal, 1904, is the earliest work in the exhibition and one of the last works of Picasso’s Blue Period. A haunting depiction of an emaciated couple in a café in Montmarte, The Frugal Meal is considered to be one of the masterpieces of twentieth century graphic art. These stunning works will be accompanied by a wider exhibition of major artists’ original prints drawn from the Cecil Higgins Collection and further afield. Five centuries of printmaking will be on show, ranging from masterpieces by key figures in the history of European printmaking, such as Rembrandt, Picasso and Matisse. The prestigious collection of more than 400 prints housed at The Higgins Bedford spans all periods, styles and techniques of printmaking and includes the work of leading international artists, including Rembrandt, Warhol, lichtenstein and Hockney.
To make a booking please call: 01525 290042
18 Market Place, Woburn MK17 9PZ
John Bunyan Museum Thursday 27th October
Wondering what to do with the kids this October half-term? Come down to John Bunyan Museum and join in with the fun and activities. On Thursday 27th October families can have fun finding out about Stuart Superstitions, Folklore, and Food. There will be making, creating, and participating in our ‘Scary Stuarts’ workshops at 11am and 1.30pm (workshops last 60mins including refreshments) age 6+ accompanied, £2 a child – Spaces are limited so booking advisable – contact 01234 270303 or curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk Also, don’t miss on Saturday 1st October we will be taking part in ‘Fun Palaces’ – a festival celebrating art and science. The John Bunyan Museum will be running free drop-in sessions making stained-glass window biscuits in the large hall from 11am to 3.30pm
Autumn Open Day
———— T W O H O U R R U N N I N G T I M E ————
Coronation Turkey Vol-Au-Vent Sticky Cranberry Sausage & Bacon Arancini with Arrabiata Dipping Sauce Smooth Chicken & Port Pâté on Toast Goat’s Cheesecake with Red Onion Jam Game Sausage Roll with Wild Mushrooms Salmon & Crème Fraîche Shot topped with a Watercress Mousse Lemon & Prosecco Syllabub Mince Pie Admission: £37.50 per person Pre-booked ticketing a must Performances 12 noon to 8pm daily
October fun at Bunyan
Pumpkin Trail and Treats Pumpkin activities and trail around the gardens at Knebworth House – spooky fun and games for children. Come along in your Halloween fancy dress (adults too!). There will be a children’s fancy dress competition during the afternoonBring along a predecorated pumpkin – there is a
26/27/28th October
daily prize for the best one.
The Garden Terrace Tea Room will be open during the event for the sale of hot drinks and snacks. The Gift Shop and Dinosaur Trail will also be open but other Knebworth attractions including the House and Adventure Playground will be closed.
Ticket prices: Adults £3.50. Child (2-12) tickets £12.00 for Trail + Disco, or £6.75 for just the Trail. Book online www.knebworthhouse.com
Pumpkins were the new crop grown this year on the family farm of Franklin’s of Thorncote in readiness for the annual Autumn Open Day on Saturday October 29th . John Franklin, pictured here amid the still-growing vegetable patch, and family will be opening the gates of the really rural site from 9am - 4 pm. This free of charge family fun day is a great hit with locals who can sample and buy a selection of free range foods and products such as meats, jams, cheese, chutneys and puddings. There will be BBQ and Hog Roast too. Franklin’s Farm is a real ‘field to fork’ business with a small number of pigs, sheep, poultry and cattle enjoying the country life before being prepared and sold via the butchery and shop on site. Farmer’s wife Anna said: “We have 400 geese which roam the green, green grass of home and we are a free range farm interested in animal welfare. They have a good life here.” The farm has been in John’s family for 60 years - and he was born there and took the business 25 years ago.
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: dave@rosettapublishing.com
the grove theatre
MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 13 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
PRESENT POPULAR ORGANIST
CHIHO SUNAMOTO
Swan Lake Prepare to be captivated by the most-loved romantic ballet of all time, Swan lake at the Grove Theatre, Dunstable. The highly-acclaimed Russian State Ballet and Opera House will create the charming and enthralling world of Swan lake on Sunday 9 October at 7.30pm. The story is woven around a princess, Odette, who is turned into a swan by an evil curse. But, will a prince’s love prove strong enough to break the curse and save her despite all odds? Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score accompanies this compelling tale of tragic romance, from the impressive splendour of the palace ballroom, to the moonlit lake where swans glide in perfect formation. This production is directed and choreographed by a former Bolshoi Ballet Soloist, bringing with it a bold athleticism of ballet technique and dramatic intensity of expressive performance. Will the mystical tale end well or will evil thwart the love between the swan-princess Odette and her Prince Siegfried?
Sunday 9 October 7.30pm
IN CONCERT WEDNESDAY 29 OCTOBER 7.30 – 10.00pm –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON MUSICAl SOCIETY
CONCERT
Kempston Musical Society will be performing a concert of sacred and light music at Putnoe Heights Methodist Church Saturday 15th October 7:30pm. Tickets cost £7.50, (£4.00 children) on the door. Proceeds to the church’s Autumn Charity Appeal and Church Funds. For more information about the choir please call 01234 781010. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD RSPB lOCAl GROUP meet at ARA club Manton lane Bedford MK41 7PF. On Thursday 20th October 2016 at 7.30p.m.
Whitney – Queen of the Night One Moment In Time is all it takes to find a singing sensation, and Whitney Houston definitely claimed her place in music history. Celebrate the music and life of one of the greatest singers, with Whitney – Queen of the Night at the Grove Theatre, Dunstable on Saturday 22 October at 7.30pm. This award-winning production features a stellar line-up, with rising West End star Rebecca Freckleton delivering a powerhouse and breathtaking performance as Whitney. Rebecca is a highly sought after vocalist, who energises an audience and delivers spine-tingling performances every time. Taking you on a magical rollercoaster ride of one true legacy of music, spanning three decades; Rebecca will perform classic hits including I Wanna Dance With Somebody, I’m Every Woman, My love Is Your love, That’s What Friends Are For and many more, making Whitney – Queen of the Night the show that beautifully remembers the most highly awarded female artiste in the world!
Saturday 22 October 7.30pm
Jim Davidson – 40 Years On Britain’s most controversial comedian celebrates an explosive forty years in shows business, with two nights at the Grove Theatre, Dunstable! Jim Davidson OBE will be sharing autobiographical reflections on his legendary career, heartfelt and hilarious, on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 October at 8pm. Jim first came to prominence in 1976 when he won TV talent show New Faces. Since then he has hosted prime time family TV shows
Thurs 27 & Fri 28 October 8pm
Carl Barimore Presents ‘The Nest Record Scheme’
including The Generation Game and Big Break, as well as topping the bill in many theatres in london’s West End and across the UK. As a film actor, Jim has starred alongside John Malkovich in Colour Me Kubrick. Jim founded the British Forces Foundation in 2000 and his unrivalled work includes countless engagements across the world entertaining British troops. He was awarded an OBE for his services to charity in 2001 and has coveted Showbusiness Personality of the Year Awards from the Variety Club of Britain. Jim also cofounded the UK-based charity, Care After Combat, providing professional assistance for the well-being of Veterans and their family. Returning to stand-up with a brand new stage show, 40 Years On, written and developed by Jim, is funny, poignant, and at times searingly honest. Jim will look back at the triumphs and tragedies of his career, from his breakthrough on New Faces, through to winning Celebrity Big Brother in 2014. Join Jim as he takes you on a trip down memory lane, regaling you with never-beforeheard stories, as he reminisces the highs, lows and controversies of a unique life spent in the public eye.
Outlining the work of the BTO to monitor breeding birds in the UK. Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 More info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD lOCAl GROUP OF THE WIlDlIFE TRUST Wednesday 12th October 2016 Meeting 7.30pm
'CLIMATE CHANGE AND LOCAL WILDLIFE' an illustrated talk by Brian Eversham
Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. Plenty parking available, All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORDSHIRE FAMIlY HISTORY SOCIETY Friday 7th October 7.15 p.m.
Interested in Family History? Then come along to one of our monthly talks
THE FORGOTTEN SPY
–––––––––––– Friday 4th November 7.15p.m.
WHAT HAPPENED TO LUCY? Drama Hall of Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk ST JOHN’S HOSPICE forthcoming events
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CHARITY BALL
12 November – 7pm – 1.00am Our yearly ball will be taking place at The Park Inn Hotel Bedford. Get your glam rags ready and register your interest. For further info call 01767 642412 Email: stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
ANGIE MURDOCH TRIBUTE CONCERT 8pm Friday 14th October 2016 Parkside Hall, Woburn Street The Town Mayor, Councillor Margaret Wilson, is hosting a special evening of music, dance and entertainment (all the things that Angie loved!) on Friday 14th October 2016 at Parkside Hall, Woburn Street for 7.30pm/8.00pm. Bar available and light refreshments will be served. Tickets £12 each (inc. light refreshments) available from the Town Council Offices. Book early to avoid disappointment! ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– MID BEDS ART SOCIETY Saturday 1 October & Sunday 2 October
AUTUMN ART EXHIBITION
Maulden Village Hall. Original paintings on show and for sale. Art demos throughout both days. Hand made cards sale, refreshments and Tombola. Free entry & parking. Wednesday 19 October
by pastels portrait artist Stan Hurr
DEMONSTRATION 7-9.30pm at At Nicholas Church Hall, Barton-le-Clay. Visitors welcome. Saturday 22 October
WATERCOLOUR PENCILS WORKSHOP with artist John Harrison
10am-4pm at Barton Village Hall, Barton-le-Clay Focused on a landscape, the pencils, brush and paper needed for the workshop will be provided; bring your own board to support the paper and a water pot. Visitors welcome; to book please call Viv Callow on 01525 712735. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD NATIONAl TRUST ASSOCIATION 7.30pm Tuesday October 18th Addison Centre – Kempston Speaker – Nancy Gregory on ‘Scholars, Spectres and Surprises’ Nancy is always a favourite. Cost - £2.50 for members and more if you are a guest. 2.30pm Tuesday, 15th November Speaker – Professor Anthony Slinn on ‘Vincent Van Gogh’ The professor is a highly recommended speaker. For more information ring Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421 You will receive a warm welcome if you attend. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BRITISH RED CROSS BEDFORDSHIRE, Saturday 19th November 10.30am – 4pm, Entry Fee £4 The programme will include demonstrations, tastings, and book signings. live performances by local school choirs. Stalls will be selling superb, quality items and many handmade gifts and products. Homemade cakes and refreshments available, raffle, tombola and much more. The Great Hall, Bedford Boys School, Burnaby Road, off De Parys Ave., Bedford, MK40 2TU. Parking/disabled parking available.
CHRISTMAS FAIR
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AMPTHILL AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB
‘Probus’ is a meeting point for retired PROfessional and BUSiness men which was founded fifty year ago, our own club being in existence for 42 of those years and covering the area from Toddington to Houghton Conquest. We meet on the first Tuesday of every month at ‘The Cross Keys’ in Pulloxhill to socialise, lunch at 12.30 and regularly have a guest speaker. We tend to finish around 2.30pm. In addition we have two weekend breaks a year, occasional visits to places of interest and ladies invitation lunches. Our members are a friendly crowd and love to welcome new members. If you are interested, please e-mail Paul on pscriv@hotmail.co.uk who will be pleased to bring you along and introduce you.
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14 — MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: dave@rosettapublishing.com
MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 15
The Rise, Fall and Rise Again of the Cardington Airships
An illustrated talk by Bedford Town Guide and local historian David Fowler
8pm Wednesday November 23, 2016 The Church of the Transfiguration Church Hall Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8DW Entrance £5 on the door For more information call: 07894 935952
pRomoteD by: KempSton cameRa club
Posh patios and desirable drives
16 — MID BEDS BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016
DRIVEWAYS, PATIOS & MORE…
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All Work Fully Guaranteed Free Estimates & Advice No Deposits £5,000,000 Public Liability Insurance Fourteen Day Cooling Off Period
We are a specialist paving and landscaping contractors dedicated to producing beautifully crafted and carefully executed work to individual clients’ specifications adding your very own touch to your property. We liaise closely with our customers in order to guarantee complete satisfaction and peace of mind. No job is too big or too small and all our work carries our full guarantee. Our expertise will ensure that each project is properly organised and efficiently completed to the highest possible standard. We also guarantee to beat any genuine, like for like written quotation.
For a FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION CALL PC DRIVESTYLE LTD Tel: 01767 360037 Freephone: 0800 0787295 On-site: 07414 512501 Email: info@pcdrivestyle.co.uk Long Lake Meadow, High Road, Seddington, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 1NU
www.pcdrivestyle.co.uk
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
LOVING WHERE YOU LIVE
I and A Restaurants Ltd owner Ismail Anilmis motivated teams from his ten McDonald’s restaurants to join their local communities in improving their neighbourhoods. In Royston they installed a new bin and litter sign at a heath near the McDonald’s. In Stotfold they planted 16 trees together with a local scout group (above). In Leighton Buzzard they
supported a fund-raising event held as part of a 30th anniversary of the Leighton United Football Club of which Ismail is Honorary President. In Toddington they repainted bollards on the green. In Bedford town centre they helped the Salvation Army by presenting an art cabinet during a fun day. In Russell Park, Bedford, the team from the Aspects
restaurants repainted railings. At Benson in Oxfordshire they painted the village hall. At Didcot staff helped to refurbish furniture in the garden of an old people’s home. At Witney McDonald’s staff painted a mural on Duckington Lane underpass. The final event was at Leamington Spa where the team cleared land for a community garden.