Your
FREE
LOCAL NEWS magazine
SANDY, BEESTON & BIGGLESWADE EDITION
APRIL 2017
Love music?
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service in action
We’ve got tickets to win!
l See the fabulous Kaiser Chiefs l Enjoy a night at Proms in the Park Go to the ‘Out & About’ pages for details l Local stories from your town, clubs, organisations & workplaces
FULL STORY INSIDE
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
A
nother month has passed and things are gradually starting to change in Biggleswade town Centre. Since my last article in the March edition of the Bulletin, I am pleased to be able to say that the work on turning the old Crown hotel into a Wetherspoon is now well underway, however that is not the only refurbishment that is taking place in our town centre. the former Loline showrooms on the high Street have now been divided into two shops and are being refurbished, so hopefully it won’t be long before they are completed and some exciting new businesses appear. over the past few months one of the
APRIL 2017 BULLETIN — 3
hottest topics among people discussing the town is the parking situation. I have some good news to report on this, at long last parking in hitchin Street is about to be extended from one hour to three hours, not only that but there are now a number of extra parking spaces since the road markings have been re-done. readers should also remember that there is an extra Free public car park at the end of the Baulk which adds a significant number of spaces to the town, especially important on Saturdays when there are reduced spaces in the town. I look forward to keeping you up to date with more town centre news next month. happy easter!
Revitalise your kitchen this spring KitchenDoor Solutions
WE ARE REPLACEMENT KITCHEN DOORS AND KITCHEN REFURBISHMENT SPECIALISTS SINCE 1980
Call: Iain Smith on 01234 389063 or 07583 869741 iain@kitchendoorsolutions.co.uk
4 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Couch to fitness sessions
Biggleswade athletic Club’s successful Couch to 5k programme returns on 26 april, aimed at complete beginners to running, as well as those looking to return to regular activity. The 12-week course entails fun and friendly wednesday 7pm sessions at sunderland Road recreation ground in sandy, which gradually and manageably ramp up through training in which participants run/walk, with the walking reducing and running increasing each week up until a “graduation” 5k run. each week come two ‘homework’ sessions, which can be done solo or alongside fellow C25kers, with club members and graduates often along to lend a hand.
after graduating Vikki Vowles tried her hand at cross-country for BaC. she says: “going from an overweight couch potato to a fourstone lighter, regular runner has unleashed the mud monster in me!” gareth saynor found the course “nothing less than life-changing”. He adds: “i’m now running every week and much healthier. and it’s also a great way to make new friends.” Others attest to improved physical and mental health, and it’s a proven programme in a safe atmosphere. Open to ages 18-69, the course costs £24, with participants receiving a special technical T-shirt for their graduation run – sign up at www.biggleswadeac.org.uk.
BUILDING MAINTENANCE ■ ■ ■ ■
Plumbing Tiling Plastering Painting & decorating
■ ■ ■ ■
Carpentry Alterations Kitchens Bathrooms
■ ■ ■ ■
Insurance work Free estimates Free call out Free advice
YOUR LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS
A. J. DAY
Tel: 01767 314445 / 07802 530951 Email: dayalan60@googlemail.com
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
Higher than Mount Everest
sHuTTlewORTH College Outdoor adventure students climbed way above the height of Mount everest to raise funds for the east anglian air ambulance. The 36 students undertook the challenge at the Big Rock climbing centre in Milton Keynes on Thursday 2nd March. shuttleworth College lecturer Jon goodwin said: “The students aimed between them to climb the 8,850 metre height of mount everest, but managed to exceed expectations and set a new target of Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain from sea bed to summit, standing at an impressive 10,220
metres. They achieved their goal, and the sore arms and legs were well worth it! The students were sponsored by family and friends and hope to raise £500 for the east anglian air ambulance.” Of course adventure at shuttleworth College is generally in the great outdoors – whether in the acres of parkland around the college campus or farther afield sailing at grafham water in Cambridgeshire or Kayaking at Priory Park lake in Bedford. if you want an adventurous career then visit www.shuttle worth.ac.uk or go along to an open day on 25th May.
D. H. MEDLOCK & SON ––– 5 0 Y E A R S I N B I G G L E S W A D E –––
2 STATION CHAMBERS, STATION ROAD BIGGLESWADE SG18 8AH
Tel: 01767 313384
SALES, INSTALLATION & REPAIR SERVICE WASHING - COOKING - COOLING - DISHWASHING
The Taxi firm you can trust! Fully computerised data despatch system 4-8 seater – Contracts welcome
01234 43 43 43 Downlad our Free ‘App’ iPhone & Android We will notify you of the car and when it has arrived
A1CARS
24
HOUR S
25 Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU www.A1carsbedford.co.uk
All major cards accepted – Special rates for airports & long distance
APRIL 2017 BULLETIN — 5
6 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Secondary Offer Day delight for town’s pupils
WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES Manufactured and installed by local craftsmen
r a no o f y t oda Call t ation cha oblig
OFFICE AND FACTORY:
■ Windows ■ uPVC Doors, Composite Doors ■ French Doors, Patio Doors, Bifold Doors ■ Conservatories ■ Deposit Indemnity ■ 10 year insurance-backed Guarantee ■ Certass Registration – Building Regulations
Red Gate Farm, Mill Road, Thurleigh, Bedford MK44 2DP t: 01234 771100 e: info@gandlwindows.co.uk www.gandlwindows.co.uk
alMOsT all pupils transferring to secondary and upper schools across Central Bedfordshire in september have been granted their first preference. 1st March was National secondary Offer day, when parents and pupils across the country found out what the future held for them. it was good news here with 97 per cent of Central Bedfordshire pupils who applied to transfer to upper schools for the 2017/18 academic year granted their first preference and a further 2.8 per cent gaining their second preference. and 91 per cent of Central Bedfordshire pupils applying for secondary school here have been offered their first preference school. a further five per cent received their second preference and one per cent their third choice. Of all the applications, most came via the council’s online system, with 94 per cent of transfer to upper school applications and 85 per cent of secondary applications done that way. That’s the quickest way of finding out the news as anyone applying online or requesting an email notification hears the news today, with decision letters then being sent out by second class post. For more information about school admissions and transfers, visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/ dmissions or email admissions@centralbedford shire.gov.uk or call 0300 300 8037. –––––––––––––––– leTTeR TO THe ediTOR: the government should be rated inadequate, not our police service. We are referring to the inspection report on Bedfordshire police which rated it “inadequate”. this is unjust because this made the headlines but later in the report it said that “ this is not a reflection on individual police officers and staff who, day by day, are doing their best with limited resources to keep the public safe.” the Government has cut the numbers of police in the country by 19,000 and cut the budget. the Government is largely to blame for the problems but they have laid responsibility for all public sector crises on the staff and poor management. the Police, the Prison Service, Ambulance Service and the nhS desperately need more funding now. the easiest and fairest way to raise the money would be to stop tax breaks for the wealthy and increase taxation on those who can well afford it. We are proud of our police in Bedfordshire and proud of the other services too. We must not let this Government destroy them. C M and R W Mackenzie, Sandy
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
APRIL 2017 BULLETIN — 7
aT a special ceremony held at Cranfield university, by kind permission of the Vice Chancellor, Professor sir Peter gregson, the lord-lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis, bought together the Bedfordshire recipients who received their Honour in the 2017 New Year Honours list, to celebrate their success, and to learn about the work behind their achievement. dignitaries present included the High sheriff of Bedfordshire, Charles whitbread; deputy Mayor of luton, Councillor dr Raja saleem; Chief Constable Jon Boutcher; deputy Chief Fire Officer glen Ranger; President of sT John, anthony duggan, and the Chairman of Central Bedfordshire Council, Cllr david Bowater. They were joined by recipients’ family members and friends to hear details about the achievements of each person read by the lord-lieutenant’s Cadets. The recipients honoured were:
Kim Bromley-Derry CBe – for services to local government Alfred hitchcock CBe QPM – for services to defence and Policing tony Fenwick MBe – for services in equality in the education sector Michael Grant MBe – for services to Conservation and the Community in Billington Frederick nigel Sparrow MBe – for services to the Community in Clapham
HM Lord-Lieutenant with Honours Recipients: L-R: Anthony Wilson MBE; Tony Fenwick MBE; Chris Sharwood-Smith MBE; Nigel Sparrow MBE; Alfred Hitchcock CBE QPM and Kim Bromley-Derry CBE.
Anthony Wilson MBe – for services to Building and engineering Chris Sharwood-Smith MBe – for services to the army Cadet Force The lord-lieutenant said: “it was very inspiring to meet and hear the stories of those who received Honours and awards for their
Photo: by kind permission of June Essex Photography:
HM Lord-Lieutenant’s Honours Ceremony
contribution to local and national life. They are all great examples of what a difference each of us can make if we go the extra mile. it was a pleasure to hold this important ceremony at Cranfield university, the uK’s only wholly Postgraduate university, which has an outstanding reputation nationally and internationally.”
“…competitive prices and friendly advice” ● Timber & Building Materials ● Bathroom & Tile Showroom ● Landscaping & Paving Displays ● Hardware & Tool Supplies ● Brick Library & Matching Services
Opening Times Monday–Friday Saturday
01767 312800
7.30am–5.00pm 8.00am–12.30pm
sales@henlowbuidlingsupplies.co.uk www.henlowbuildingsupplies.co.uk 3a Pegasus Drive, Stratton Business Park, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 8QA
8 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Bedfordshire Festival for Music, Drama and Speech ReCeNTlY the Festival for Music, drama and speech took place at Bedford Corn exchange and Harpur suite. it is an event which lasts a week and many schools, private students, private and school bands and choirs as well as individuals of all ages take part. The atmosphere is exciting, but is mixed with a great deal of nerves by each and every performer! This year st andrew’s Harmony Youth Choir from Biggleswade entered three classes which took place on saturday 4th March. The first class – 19 years and under - took place at 3.30 on saturday 4th March. There were four choirs in this class. Harmony sang three songs and were placed second. at 6 o’clock it was
the turn of the older members of the group which were entered as a Choral group. They were by far the smallest group but sang their three songs amazingly well.
They came again second out of the four competitors. The last performance of the older group came at 7.30 in the evening in the Open Choral Class. an another amazing
performance gave them the Borough of Bedford Charter Year salver. They beat both samuel whitbread school and shannon express Barbershop who also performed in this class! some of the adjudicator’s comments included: beautiful sound, very attractive easy tone, challenging pieces and very well done indeed, intonation secure, well blended sound and overall the singing was beautiful. Harmony is a Youth Choir with ages ranging from 9 till 18. The Choir sings many different genres of music and is looking for more members. They practise on Thursday afternoons from 15.45 until 17.15. if you’re interested in joining than please come any Thursday at st andrew’s Church in Biggleswade. On sunday evening st andrew’s Community Choir also from Biggleswade took part in the class for Community Choirs. a very nervous group which had not ever done anything like this before. There were five other choirs in this class each and every one of them much larger than st andrew’s choir! They filled their ten minute slot and were rewarded with a very strong applause and the Brittannia works Cup. unbelievably they beat the other five choirs! There were very positive remarks from the adjudicator which included: lovely legato sound, phrases were shaped beautifully, excellent diction, fabulous ending, a very accomplished choir. st andrew’s Community Choir meets on wednesday evenings at st andrew’s Church. ––––––––––––––
Fire crews rescue horse
BedFORdsHiRe Fire and Rescue crews from Kempston and sandy stations recently saved a horse trapped in a culvert in george Town, sandy. The horse had slipped into the culvert and was unable to get itself out. Fortunately the Kempston crew, who are trained to rescue large animals, attended along with the RsPCa. a vet was also on the scene to sedate the horse before they attempted to pull it from the culvert in order to reduce the amount of stress for the animal. The horse was safely set free and returned to a nearby field none the worse for its adventure. station Commander derek Hobbs was at the scene and praised the crews for their swift response. “These situations are always tricky but fortunately our crew is specially trained to do this and we had the support of the RsPCa and a vet to ensure that the animal was safe and calm and we were able to perform the rescue quickly.
SANDY TOWN COUNCIL COUNCIL m eeTINgS All meetings commen
ce at 7.30pm Developmen except t Scrutiny Com mittee (Plann which starts ing) at 6.30pm in the Council C 10 Cambridge hamber, Road, Sandy SG19 1JE
Monday 24 Ap ril 2017 developmen t S crutiny Community Services & en vironment Monday 8 May 2017 developmen t Scrutiny policy finance & Resources Monday 22 M ay 2017 annual meeti ng
See our websi ALL MEMBERS
te for details
of other meeti
ngs
OF THE PUBL WELCOME TO IC AND PRESS ARE ATTEND
NCILLORS ARD TOWN COU PINNACLE W
g peRmIT IN h IS f S T N e e ReSId aTURe ReSeRv CaL N The RIddy LOns ‘The Riddy’ which borders the
ow The Town Council cially important to water voles. It pe es is d an el Iv r Rive n to fish the river Sandy and Beesto of ts en to March sid re s w lo al ch runs from June hi w on as se ng hi during the fis for free. can be obtained it is required which 1st April for the rm Pe ’ ts en sid Re A the uncil offices from from the Town Co Rod Licence and cy en Ag t en nm ro vi En nt rre ng your present year. A cu tification containi en id of rm fo r he applying for a some ot itted at the time of g people bm su be t us m s es un addr to yo it is also available permit. The perm accompanied by a be t us m ey th t bu 12 of e ag e information under the applying. For mor uncil offices. n he w t ul ad le responsib Town Co please contact the
ImpROvINg pLay IN SaNd
y Sandy Town Council is working with Central Bedfordshire Council to review play parks and equipment in Sandy with a view to planning for short and long term improvements. As part of the process we will want to hear your thoughts on play areas within Sandy. Please visit the Town Council website to complete our questionnaire. www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
IVEL WARD Cllr P N Aldis D BEESTON WAR 01767 691333 lr P Blaine Cl t 7 Mayfield Court, 692619 Cllr M P Scot 7 76 01 57 Sandy SG19 1NF .com r Close, Home 01767 6814 pla Po 19 83 nigel.aldis1@gmail Work 01767 6809 ington SG19 1HH y nd Sa m ine.blaine@gmail.co “The Gowans” Sedd Road bla ter pe Cllr J Ali Nursery, Great NorthSG19 1NZ 01767 681491 ll Hi y M nd lr Sa , Cl uncil Seddington C/o Sandy Town Co , 69 om 14 t.c 68 rne 7 76 nte 01 bti ad Ro ge scott729@ rid , mb on Ca est 10 21 The Green, Be Sandy SG19 1JA SG19 1PE m. .co D ok tlo AR ou W D ill@ EL axh FI am Cllr T Knagg FALLOW 01767 223165 son ck Ja W lr Cl Cllr T Cole 3 Jubilee Close, 49 25 68 7 76 01 88 Sandy SG19 1JA m Home 01767 6998 d Gardens, iel stf We 14 .co b.knagg@outlook 1 Partridge Piece, 1HF 19 SG y nd Sa P m 2U t.co 19 rne SG e nte y bti rn Sand will.jackson662@ Cllr C Osbo ail.co.uk P. teresacole@hotm J. ., .E .B tt M tti Cllr M J Pe 01767 682032 Cllr G Leach 01767 680082 eds Smith 91 Summercourt, 2 Le 1LU 14 olme Gardens, sh 01767 68 an Sw 42 19 SG cil y un nd Co Sa , wn ive To Dr y L C/o Sand Sandy SG19 1H media.com ad, an 10 Cambridge Ro martin.pettitt@virgin Cllr D Sharm E 1J 19 68 38 Sandy SG 68 7 76 n k 01 v.u tto uncil.go Cllr S J Su ndy SG19 2TA admin@sandytownco 21 Falcon Close, Sa 01767 227589 an m ar w Sh , ro Cllr P 33 Bedford Road Cllr J Spar 07889 599556 682693 y SG19 1EP 7 nd 76 Sa 01 uncil 3 Swallow Crest, C/o Sandy Town Co , ad Sandy SG19 2SN 10 Cambridge Ro Sandy SG19 1JE
JeNkINS pavILION TO geT defIbRILLaTOR
In 2015 former Sandy Town Council Mayor, Councillor Will Jackson, raised funds for the inst allation of two defibrillators in Sandy. One defibrill ator was installed in the town centre and another at the Co-op in Fallowfield. Due to a recent change in nationa l Co-op policy the defibrillator has had to be relocate d. At a meeting of the Community Services and Environ ment Committee on Monday 13th March 2017 Councillors resolved to relocate the defibrillator to the Jenkins Pavillion, Sunderland Roa d.
10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
10 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Celebrations 80’s style
iN THe midst of Ovarian Cancer awareness Month an 80’s fancy dress party was held at Biggleswade social Club in March to celebrate angela’s annual charity birthday bash (born in 1982) and the amazing milestone of £80,000 raised to date for angela’s small Cell Ovarian Cancer Research Fund at The eve appeal. The event itself raised a further £912.15 and linda Butcher said “what a great start to our next milestone in the race to extend the pioneering research into small cell ovarian cancer, which started at the uClH and the Cambridge genetic Research Centre last april, inspired by the late Mike (Adam Ant), Linda (Freddie Mercury) and Mark Butcher (a Rocker) with family and friends angela Butcher, who lost her life to small cell at the £80k celebrations for Angela’s Research Fund. ovarian cancer in January 2013 and, upon diagnosis in september 2012, started fundraising for Research to give hope to others. Family and THaNK you for all your feedback last twenty five years have dropped by air at many petrol stations!, but if you friends and beyond have continually about last month’s piece about the 50% while hedgehogs are down a own a computer or a smart ‘phone, you can actually download an excellent supported angela’s Fund, which is actress and writer Carol drinkwater whopping 90% since the 1950s. in the dozen years i have lived in ‘app’ that is full of amazing informathe only one of its kind in the uK and in particular, her interest in bees and is housed at The eve appeal in and if you haven’t yet done it, why not this area, i estimate over 6000 trees tion about trees and will even help you have a look at her website www.car- have been removed, many for shops identify what a particular tree is. Best london.” oldrinkwater.com . etc., but many more just by residents of all, it’s completely free! it’s easy to Fundraising continues and the something else that faces a tough who, as one of my wise old neighbours use and is actually very enjoyable as it next planned event is angela’s Par 3 time in this country and around the told me a while back ‘i tell you what works by a process of elimination, askChallenge, which will be held at world are trees and the next time you boy, as soon as someone moves into a ing questions about a tree’s features letchworth Par 3 Family golf think about felling one please bear the new house, they cut down a tree’! before arriving at a number of possibilCentre on 1st July 2017. following in mind: sadly, he is correct. see for yourself. ities. get yours today by going to if you’d like to support angela’s in this country, according to the One of the reasons so many of us www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visitingResearch Fund, please ‘phone linda woodland Trust, over the last ten years, enjoy time in the countryside is that the woods/trees-woods-and-wildlife/ . on 07730 319209 or message Mark the butterfly population has declined by quality of the air makes us feel, often Then click on the on the section ‘The James Butcher on facebook. 70%. song thrush numbers over the subconsciously, more vital, more ener- guide To British Trees’ and then on the
Garden – April 2017
workflow G
R
O
U
P
JOIN OUR CAMBOURNE OFFICE!
Telesales Role Required Permanent and Part Time Roles available Are you a highly self-motivated and target-driven individual? Money motivated and skilled at making new business-business appointments? With basic salary £8.50 per hour and commission bonuses available (OTE of £21k per year)
CALL NOW ON 01223 598440
getic. This is because one of the major functions of trees is to take bad carbon dioxide and convert it into good oxygen. so, rather than cutting down a tree, why not plant one? it will not only improve the appearance of your garden, it will be home to all sorts of wildlife, which in turn will attract even more species into your space. and you will improve the actual air that you breathe! in this area, happily, there are some excellent general nurseries, but there are also some specialist tree nurseries and if you are thinking of planting a tree, it might be well worth your while to have a chat with their staff so that you get the perfect tree for you. Free tree Identification App Precious little in life if free these days, not even
left hand menu, click on the button which says ‘identify trees with our app’. The answer to last month’s just for fun question is: 1.How many flowers does a honey bee have to visit to create one pound of honey? answer: 2 million 2. and how many times around the world is the distance equal to? answer: Twice. This month’s just for fun question is why are ‘Monkey Puzzle’ trees so called? and if you download the free woodland Trust app mentioned above, you will find the answer but you will also find the answer to many other questions you didn’t know you had! as usual, please email or ‘phone me with any gardening queries you may have on lawndocgardens@ aol.com or 01767 627 581.
Need an electrician? Fully qualified • Professional • Clean & tidy work • Free quotations
Steve Peacock
01234 871366 07947 575124 GREAT BARFORD
■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Consumer Unit replacements Shower replacement/install New Installations Security Lighting Rewires, Extensions PA Testing Testing and Inspecting Fault finding, minor maintenance Landlord safety certificates Emergency lighting upgrades
www.asohmelectrics.co.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
APRIL 2017 BULLETIN — 11
12 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
RELIABLE ROOFING COMPANY
BUILT UP FELT ROOFING SPECIALISTS & GENERAL ROOF REPAIRS
ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 40 YEARS
■ Slate & tile ■ Replacement facias/soffits, uPVC or timber ■ Guttering maintenance & replacement ■ Free estimates ■ Guaranteed workmanship at realistic prices
Visit our on our website
Prop: R. S. CROW F.I.O.R.
01767 312914 • 07973 844240 www.reliableroofing-herts.co.uk emails: reliableroofing@btinternet.com
Youth Parliament discuss lowering the voting age
CeNTRal Bedfordshire’s Youth Parliament members have discussed the uK Youth Parliament’s Votes @ 16 campaign with their local MPs. Paige taylor (etonbury Academy) and Mia Pole (harlington Upper School) met with alistair Burt (MP for North east Bedfordshire) and Kelvin Hopkins (MP for luton North) respectively to discuss and highlight the issue. Votes @ 16 was chosen as the uK Youth Parliament campaign’s for 2017 during a ballot which saw almost a million 11-18 year olds take part. Make Your Mark is an annual ballot which asks young people to highlight the issues which matter most to them. This year a record 978,216 took part, including 5,832 across Central Bedfordshire. The five leading topics were discussed during a lively House of Commons debate in November with Votes @ 16 selected as the Youth Parliament’s national campaign. Mia and Paige said: “lowering the voting age to 16 has been an ongoing discussion in politics for a long time now. scotland did just that in 2015 after allowing 16 and 17 year olds to take part in the scottish referendum a year earlier. But here, 16 and 17 years olds have missed out on having their voices heard on some recent
important issues that will affect their future. “That’s why the Youth Parliament felt that it was time to push for the voting age to be lowered so that their voices, and the voices of their peers, are represented in national issues. we hope that by talking with our local MPs and raising the profile of the campaign that this issue might be considered within the government’s current agenda.” Mr Hopkins said that he was fully behind the campaign to lower the voting age following his meeting with Mia. The labour MP said: “i fully support Votes @16. if young people are mature enough to get married, they are mature enough to vote. Politics is too important to be left just to older people and the sooner young people get involved in politics the sooner they understand how important it is. “Having a say in how we are governed and what kind of world we live in is vitally important but also fascinating when we come to understand it.” Conservative MP Mr Burt added: “i thought Paige made a very good case for Votes @ 16. i’m not sure if the time is yet right for such a change, but i think the argument has been strengthened by Young People’s participation in the scottish referendum.”
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
Growing for gold
APRIL 2017 BULLETIN — 13
GARY BERRIDGE
Plastering and general maintenance INCLUDING:
● UPVC doors and windows ● Facias and guttering ● Tiling ● Free estimates ● Painting & decorating
Tel: 01767 316485 07582 485155
sHuTTlewORTH College has again a team short-listed in the annual ideal Home show ‘Young gardeners of the Year’ competition. Having won praise previously, the team have their sights set on ‘growing for gold’ at the 2017 event. The annual competition, now in its seventh year, organised by TV gardener david domoney in association with the Prince’s Foundation for Building Community, celebrates young ‘green’ talent and sees six of the uK’s leading horticultural colleges, go head-tohead to create a show-stopping, sustainable garden that will be visited by a quarter of a million visitors at the show. david briefed the participating colleges on the objectives of the competition and provided handy hints and tips. There was also a presentation from simon sadinsky, Head of education at the Prince’s Foundation for Building Community, outlining principles and brief for this year’s show. The Prince’s Foundation sets clear guidelines based on organic and sustainable principles and the importance of front gardens. this year there is a new focus: front gardens The Young gardeners are tasked with creating a show
garden that will capture the imagination and inspire the judges and visitors, with clever plant association. simon sadinsky, The Prince’s Foundation’s Young Heritage apprenticeship Coordinator, said: “This year, we want to see designs that will inspire homeowners to bring back colour and life to the street, and that really sell the benefits of nurturing this space. “in the past decade alone, 4.5 million more front gardens have been concreted over. we know this has severe environmental impacts, from flash flooding to declining wildlife. as a nod to this, we’ve asked competitors to incorporate harmony and sustainability into their design. “we’re also looking for gardens that demonstrate a smart use of space – a way of showing homeowners you can still have storage space for household items, like the wheelie bins each garden will be tasked with housing.” This year’s show gardens will be judged by an expert panel, which includes horticultural industry leaders, home and garden magazine editors and acclaimed garden designers. entrants will compete to win the gold, silver gilt, silver or bronze award. The overall winner will receive the Best in show award, and visitors will be able to vote for the winner of the People’s Choice award.
Ivel Sprinters take delivery of new Iveco mini bus
aFTeR many months of hard work the ivel sprinter volunteers team effort to obtain funds for the purchase of a new vehicle have come to fruition. The aim of the organisation is to provide for those in the community with no or limited transport options, a timetabled ‘hail & ride’ mini bus service covering the local villages within an approximate 20 miles radius of Biggleswade, sandy and out to Bedford, Cambridge and st Neots to enable shopping, medical appointments, the library etc. Thanks are due to the generous support from local Town and Parish Councils and Charities including Biggleswade, sandy, Tempsford, langford, Northill,wixham Tree Trust, Potton Consolidated Charities and the Provincial grand lodge of Bedfordshire Trust to say nothing of several local organisations gifts which have enabled them to take delivery of the new bus – a real boost to all in
YOUR LOCAL CLEANING COMPANY
HOMEBRIGHT Fully vetted and insured cleaners at affordable rates
■ Weekly house cleans ■ One off spring cleans ■ Ironing service
Call Angela for a FREE quote
Office 01767 222141 Mob 07807 452974 www.homebrightcleaners.co.uk
Mark Beetlestone Sales Manager of Guest Trucks Peterborough (Supplier) handing the keys to Gerry Amsden, General Secretary of The Ivel Sprinter, together with Councillor Michael North Deputy Major of Biggleswade, Councillor Ann Lovesey from Great Barford and the Ivel Sprinter Drivers. meeting local needs. They are always looking for addiTimetables are available from the tional volunteer drivers, who are able bus, local libraries, some doctors sur- to offer one morning a month. Please geries etc. or telephone 01767 317683 contact 01767 317103 for further and a copy will be sent. details.
14 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
AROUND THE CLUBS BIGGLESWADE IVEL EVENING TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD
Chairman Chris davies welcomed members to the Biggleswade ivel evening Townswomen’s guild annual meeting on Monday, March 13. last month’s walk from sandy to the danish Camp saw our intrepid walkers challenge storm doris, there were moments when it seemed doris would win but they battled on and finally came out the winners. a very welcome rest for lunch at the danish Camp followed and once recovered the group made their way to the bus stop bus passes at the ready for the trip back to Biggleswade. The theatre trip to see Funny girl was most enjoyable. a social studies meeting was well supported and a number of ideas discussed. Chris davies gave a report of a federation meeting she had attended with gill Hibbert and angela williamson. There will be a federation photographic competition on april 21. an invitation has been received from the HM lord lieutenant of Bedfordshire to his annual service at st Mary’s Church, luton on sunday, May 7. The theatre trip to dirty dancing has been cancelled due to lack of numbers. Future outings are being considered including a trip to the Victorian market at worcester in November. Joy Cooper read the standing orders and ann Taylor gave a very fulsome report of the many speakers and activities that the guild had undertaken during the past twelve months. The overall competition winners for the year were jointly Maureen Carter and Val dent who will have a trophy to share for the coming year, runner up was Margaret Hennegan. Following the business meeting there was a break for drinks and homemade cakes donated by the committee. The evening concluded with a quiz. The next meeting will be on april 10 when eric Mclaughlin will give a talk entitled Buckingham Palace from an employee. The competition will be for something beginning with N. The guild meets on the second Monday of the month 7.30 pm at the weatherley Centre new members and visitors are very welcome to join us. ann Taylor, Chairman, welcomed the members of the ivel Valley u3a to their March meeting. she hoped that the members had enjoyed the lunch at Roxton garden Centre. Those members who had attended ‘Funny girl’ at Milton Keynes Theatre had thoroughly enjoyed the show. ann & Pat doddimead had represented the u3a at the Town Mayor’s Civic service at the Baptist Church. it had been a good experience to share with many organisations from the town. The treasurer gave details of a discount pass to visit art galleries. There was nothing to report from the secretary. The art group has yet to organise their next meeting and desperately need more members. Book group 1 will meet on Monday 3rd april at Jean william’s house. Book group 2 will meet on 7th april at Val Mcsweeney’s house. The Craft group met at Chris davies’ house on 16th when they made several easter Cards in two different genres. The Music group met on Tuesday 21st at Mary’s house. The walking group, led by Chris davies, met at windermere drive for a walk across the fields. The sunday lunch Club met at The wilbury, letchworth where all enjoyed a very sociable occasion. Chris davies announced that the outing to ‘dirty dancing’ had been cancelled due to lack of support. she was organising several more trips and further information will be available at a later date when the costs have been worked out.
IVEL VALLEY U3A
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ann introduced the speaker for the afternoon, dawn Fry, who was to speak about ‘Chocolate’. she ran her own business called ‘The Melting Pot’. dawn explained that she had been feeling fed up with her job and started looking round for something she could run from her garden shed. she decided that she would run workshops although she hadn’t decided quite what the subject would be. deciding that she loved chocolate, she began researching into the subject. when she was made redundant in 2009 she decided to take the plunge. she took several courses and had her shed refurbished. Her first workshop was for Tesco and these workshops gradually expanded until they became her full time business. she gave a brief history of the development of chocolate beginning with the Mayans through to the Quaker families who were against alcohol and encouraged people to eat chocolate instead. she showed a cocoa bean and several pictures of the trees in their growing regions. Passing round several samples of different flavoured chocolates, the members enjoyed the tasting experience.
THE LIONS REACH 100 WHILST WE APPROACH 40
lions Clubs international are 100 years old this year. Biggleswade sandy lions Club will be 39. worldwide we have over 1.4 million members in 46,000 clubs across some 200 countries. locally we have 22 members serving the towns and villages around Biggleswade and sandy. we could really do with a few more members to help us continue serving this community. as i write this article, we have just held our annual Jumble sale at Clifton Community Centre which raised over £600 for our Charitable funds. we have placed 19 easter eggs in local Pubs and Clubs and have just launched our 2017 logo Quiz with a £100 prize for the winning entry. You will find us throughout the summer at local Village Fetes. On May 13th we are holding our popular summer dance at the weatherley Centre. in June we are running our always eagerly awaited day trip to wicksteed Park for local disadvantaged youngsters, their carers and family members. a lions Club is a sociable group of people from a variety of backgrounds who employ their varied skills to serve the Community by raising funds to enable a little sunshine to be brought into otherwise unfortunate lives. above all, it is most important that we enjoy and have fun whilst carrying out this work. if you feel that you would like to learn more about us, why don’t you come along to one of our meetings that are held on the first and third wednesdays of each month at 8:00pm in Biggleswade Conservative Club, or call david or Judith on 01462 814693
ROYAL ARTILLERY ASSOCIATION
The Biggleswade Branch of the Royal artillery association held a Branch Meeting and annual general Meeting on 1st March 2017, at the sea Cadets Hall. There were fourteen members present. The Chairman recited The Royal artillery Prayer. New member Joe McNeil was welcomed into the Branch. The Branch has received a letter of thanks for the donation to the Royal artillery Charitable Fund. a letter regarding the war Pensioner annual garden Party was read. a visit to the Royal Military academy at shrivenham was discussed and the President is to reestablish contact with the new Officer in charge.
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
a visit to the Royal Hospital Chelsea and National army Museum was discussed. The Branch have been invited to the Mayor’s Civic service has been received and the Chairman, secretary and the President and Mrs. Harragan will attend. The Chairman reported that les dessent has been appointed Branch standard Bearer. The Chairman presented past secretary irene Harragan with a plaque as a thank you for her service to the Branch. Tickets for the The Royal artillery grand draw were distributed. The Royal artillery association exists to look after the welfare of and foster comradeship between members of the Royal artillery both serving and retired. ex-service personnel of other arms or Regiments who wish to share the camaraderie are welcome. The Branch meets on the first wednesday of the month at the sea Cadets Hall, Biggleswade starting at 14.30hrs. (Next Meeting is on wednesday 5th april). Please contact the Chairman Ted McKenzie on 07900806235 or e Mail tiger.ted@gmail.com for more details.
BIGGLESWADE & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB
Chairman, Tony gray, welcomed members to their meeting on wednesday, 15th March with a special greeting to the new members and visitors. He announced that as there were insufficient numbers for the outing to Burley House the trip had been cancelled. The payment was due for the weekend break. Tony introduced the speaker Phillip waites who was to talk about his ‘35 Years at wimpole Hall’. His interest in gardening began early when he helped his grandfather and father with their gardens. He took over part of the garden when living in settle turning it from a wild area to a cultivated plot. against his father’s wishes he decided to pursue a career in gardening. He moved to lancashire to become a gardener in the parks department. He joined the National Trust and moved down to wimpole Hall. He had never seen such a wonderful house. He took over as head gardener in 1986. showing pictures from the estate he showed trees that he had planted and grown from cuttings. These were now mature and beautiful specimens. The aerial view of the parterres was wonderful. The reconstruction of the folly was finished and the scaffolding finally removed so all could see its glory. He oversaw the recreation of the glasshouse where some 18,000 plants are produced each year. He also saw the replanting of the avenue which stretches some two and a half miles long. They use all the old trees that have fallen over or been cut down as tall bug hotels to encourage wildlife. at this time of the year the grounds are carpeted with daffodils and at one time he received a very large donation of bulbs. Their restaurant takes all the produce that the vegetable beds produce and flowers from the picking border grace the house. He has recreated the herbaceous borders and planted the stumpery with many ferns. He recommended visiting the house and grounds as it had changed over the years although there was still a great many projects still to be funded and completed. Tony led the applause for a most fascinating and interesting talk and urged members to revisit wimpole Hall as he had not been there for many years and would like to see the improvements. There was an opportunity for refreshments and the raffle was drawn. Tony thanked all for attending and hoped they had enjoyed the evening. He reminded the members that the next meeting is on 19th april when the speaker is liz livermore talking about ‘The gardens of Japan’. Please remember to bring your plant to be judged.
16 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Hay’s 24th Annual Quiz
ON Tuesday 14th March, george Hay hosted the 24th running of its annual Quiz which pitches local business leaders against one another; each team aspiring to take home the sought-after Jubilee shield. 13 teams took part in the quiz, held at John O’gaunt golf Club, consisting of local solicitors, banks, estate agents and other professional groups.
For the fifth consecutive year stevenage-based Richmond House Financial services (RHg) took the top-spot, with a terrific 96 points, followed by Huntingdonbased Chartered surveyors Barker storey Matthews in second place and in third were Barclays Bank. Together, george Hay’s resident quiz master and Tax Partner, Barry Jefferd and his wife susan, put together the questions that
make up ten tricky rounds on the night. speaking after the quiz, Barry said: “it has been another great evening, giving local professionals and businesses the opportunity to socialise and enjoy some friendly competition”. “RHg were worthy winners once again this year. it will be interesting to see if they can make it six wins next year or if one of the other teams takes the top-spot!”. To find out more about george Hay, which also has offices in Huntingdon and letchworth, please visit www.georgehay.co.uk
Gill is here to serve Biggleswade Community
SG19 Road Safety Group
THe sg19 Road safety group continues to press for the construction of a proper bypass for sandy and Beeston, working with Highways england’s (He) a1 east of england strategic study which calls for major improvements to the route of the a1 through our area. a report on the outcome of the study was announced at a stakeholder meeting organised jointly by He with the department for Transport on 1st March. while this recognises the need for improvement over the length of the a1 subject of the study – from the M25 to Peterborough – not enough emphasis seems to attach to the sandy/Beeston stretch in terms of safety, pollution and congestion at certain times. a second option – for more local short stretches of bypass around sandy/Beeston and Buckden – does see recognition of the need for some major improvements for these particularly ‘challenged’ stretches of the a1. Hopefully this at least might be achievable. unfortunately, the process is a very long and drawn out one. The same stakeholder meeting had on its agenda the Oxford to Cambridge expressway and an update on progress of the dualling of the a428 from Caxton gibbet to the Black Cat on the a1. The latter has now been announced as a ‘live project’ with public meetings to be held
as part of the consultation process. For venues and other details, He’s contact centre is on 0300 123 5000 or see the scheme website: http://roads.highways.gov.uk/projects/a428-black-cat-to-caxton-gibbet. The group has recently attended a meeting of the Buckden a1 group and it is intended that the two groups will be working more closely together to help achieve the aims that we share, namely that our communities are in need of relief from the effects of living near a busy and dangerous stretch of main trunk road. Present at the meeting was a representative from the Police talking about accident statistics and control of speeding; a representative from He to update the meeting on other more local measures in hand and the MP for Huntingdon who is firmly behind the need for a proper bypass for Buckden. we hope to organise a similar meeting in sandy in the not too distant future. as always, public support is vital so please put your ideas on our website. it will be public opinion that sways the decision makers and our petition is designed to do just that. if you have yet to do so, please sign it online via our website – www.sg19.org – to support our views that priority needs to be given to building a proper bypass for sandy and Beeston.
Biggleswade residents, do you need a supporting hand? why not contact your Biggleswade Community agent to ask for advice about accessing the services and support that you need. The service is free and confidential. gill can assess your situation within the comfort of your own home. Clients have reported back saying, “gill Reeves was so very good and sorted out the problem for us. This ended our worries so we were very pleased. i would like to add that gill was very good to us, very pleasant and kind - first class!”
gill can help you search for a better deal with an energy supplier, assist with applying for attendance allowance or help with form filling and of course many other issues. gill has helped clients connect with clubs/organisations within the community, helping them to feel more connected and less isolated. gill is employed by Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity and the part-time role is largely funded by Biggleswade Town Council. Just ask gill, for more information ring 07534 484750 or email gillr@bedsrcc.org.uk.
Hard going at Championships
BedFORdsHiRe and luton schools found it tough going at the english schools Cross Country Championships at the Norwich show ground last month. One of the favourites Ben davies (Redborne school, ampthill) could not take part in the senior Boys face as he had been selected to represent great Britain at the world Cross Country Championships. But Tia wilson (Mark Rutherford, Bedford) did not disappoint. she was up with the leaders from the start of the inter girls 3.75k on a fast flat course, made difficult in high winds. Her gritty performance saw her finish in 8th place a nd she will represent english schools in the Home Counties international for the third consecutive year. Full results: Junior Boys 42nd out of 45 Joe lawson - sam whitbread - 228 Harry west - Harrold Priory - 243 Oliver Brady - Redborne - 250 Jack sharp - Rushmore - 276 James Vinnicombe - Harrold Priory - 284 Johnnie winter - lincroft - 297 Kai Courtney - sam whitbread - 322 Nathan Hyde - wootton - 341
inter Boys 38th out of 45 teams Cameron gillies - sharnbrook - 86 aideen Killeen - Harlington - 156 Joe Ryan - sam whitbread - 179 Jed Noblett - Manshead - 266 Richard laursen - st Thomas More - 273 Jake Harrison - sharnbrook - 297 Oliver davies - Bedford Free school - 317 Reuben williams - st Thomas More - 327 senior Boys 38th out of 45 teams Ryan ward - sam whitbread- 120 sam Burton - stratton - 200 william Forster - sandy - 248 dominic Menzies - Bedford College - 268 eryk sokolowski - Bedford Modern - 270 Matthew Birchall - Bedford College - 296 Jamie stancombe - Harlington - 318 Tom angel - sam whitbread - 323
Junior girls 42 out of 45 teams sophia Perusko - Bedford Modern - 24 amy Killick - Van dyke - 240 Niqole Carter - Broadlands - 322 Yasmin Palmer - Harlington - 324 Caitlin allen - stratton - 325 Marisa Mistry - Bedford girls- 328 emma Moore - sam whitbread - 331 lucy Tapster - Margaret Beaufort - 341 inter girls 21 out of 45 teams Tia wilson - Mark Rutherford - 8 Rose abbott - sharnbrook - 101 libby Jay - Chalk Hills- 118 Hannah shelton - sharnbrook - 179 Katie lansbury - wootton - 217 sophie Maddock - Cardinal Newman - 224 lucy-Mae shepherd - wootton - 236 Maisie Relton - Mark Rutherford - 279 senior girls 29 out of 45 Bonnie Murphy - wootton - 102 anna Vinnicombe - sharnbrook - 104 lauren Nichols - Bedford 6th form - 125 Josie smith - Bedford College - 181 ellie lawton - Bedford girls school - 275 anna garbutt - Bedford girls school - 285
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
sport
Coaching successes saNdY Town Bowling Club are delighted that five of their members have recently passed bowls coaching exams and become level 1 Club Coaches. The awards came following an intensive three week course. The club’s Coaching Co-ordinator, derek Reader, said: “Having five more qualified coaches means that members of our club will be
able to benefit from our coaching programmes. in particular, new and inexperienced members will enjoy excellent support at the start of their bowling careers. lawn bowling is great fun, especially when experienced help is available when you need it, and it certainly is at our club.”
(L-R) John Brophy, Michael Groom, Glenys Taverner, Derek Reader, Tony Trimmer.
Sandy bowler is new East Beds’ president
gleNYs Taverner, the ladies’ year. she adds: “i hope that the Captain of sandy Town Bowling ladies will be successful in their Club, is the 2017 ladies President of match against the gents!” the east Beds & district ladies Bowls league (eBl). The honour comes following her completing the roles in the eBl ladies league of Junior Vice President (2015) and senior Vice President (2016) The league plays competition games between May and august on a Tuesday evening both home and away. There is also a knockout competition played for the gwen Reid cup throughout the season. as President, glenys’s home club, sandy Town Bowling Club will host an invitation game, ladies v. gents in July and there will be a celebratory tea after in sandy Village Hall for all bowlers who took part in the match. The season finishes with a joint Presentation evening for both east Beds league Men’s and ladies’ competitions where the winning teams are presented with their awards. glenys says that she feels very honoured to take up this role and hopes it will be a successful
APRIL 2017 BULLETIN — 17
FOOTBALL – BY MICHAEL DRAXLER
The only goal of the half came on 16 as the culmination of a three man move. Richens brilliantly weighted pass into Jeff woodward whose StrAtForD ..............................1 cross found Connor Vincent lurking BIGGLeSWADe toWn...........0 at the near post. Connor had no MaNageR Nunn admitted, on chance to react to the ball before social media, to blame for a very being bundled over. Rhys Hoenes stepped up and under par performance at stratford. Having employed a back three for smashed the ball high into the net the past few games, no win has come from the penalty spot, for a deserved lead. More should have followed but our way. The system affords a very attrac- the lads had to be content with the tive style of play and we dominated one at the break. early minutes of the second 45 the previous opposition but unable did not favour Biggleswade as more to put chances away. Chances on saturday were not in of the same followed. The change abundance for either side who both came on 58 when new dad Tony look as though they have drifted Burnett replaced Connor Vincent at early into the ‘nothing to play for’ the head of the attack. Coincidental mind set. The only goal and perhaps or super sub, Burnett with a dazzling only chance of the match fell to run and shot across the keeper douJamie spencer early in the game on bled the lead on 63. within minutes Michael Richens 12, a close range conversion. was upended in the box for a second spot kick. Nerves a jangling Hoenes don’t miss many, 3-0. Three minutes on and this time Hoenes is felled by the keeper, yet another spot kick. surely ex-wader BIGGLeSWADe toWn...........6 Boness must guess right this time, hAYeS AnD YeADInG............0 but no the ball went left for 4-0. The waders took up the chala gOOd old fashioned spanking was handed out by a rampant wader lenge with Captain Craig daniel team as Hayes capitulated in the sec- joining the festival with a fierce shot ond 45. Pick of the bunch was from outside the box to put Hayes Michael Richens whose energy out of sight. Burnett added another late on makes you breathless, just watching him, one end of the park to the other, after the keeper had parried a tackles that make you flinch. But, all Richens shot back to Tony for the was not as the score line would sug- tap in. Hayes did not offer much and gest. the first period was lots of creation, no conversion as the waders you have to put that down to a bad frustrated themselves with lack of day at the office. all the boys in accuracy in front of the opposition green played well and this is the 3rd straight win. goal.
Nunn’s confession
Six of the best
BLOCKED GUTTERS? Blocked gutters can cause water damage to your property. Clearing them out can be a messy and dangerous job – we can help Call today for a FREE inspection
01767 225453 oo 07733 348903 HIGHWASH CLEANING SERVICES LIMITED
www.highwash.co.uk
18 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Biggleswade History Society
In the ‘Bad Old Days’ By Jane Dale
IN February a guest speaker gave the Society a talk about Bedfordshire convicts during the period 1770 to 1870. He had studied patterns of crime in 41 counties and was able to tell us that Bedfordshire was top county for convictions for poaching. This came as no surprise to the Society’s Editor, who has discovered many local poachers in the Bedford Gaol and Quarter Sessions Records and in newspaper reports. This article about a poaching expedition that had tragic consequences first appeared in the January 1996 issue of the Biggleswade History Society’s Newsletter.
‘T
–––––––––––––
is my delight on a shining night in the season of the year.’ – Many of us will be familiar with the refrain of the old song, ‘The lincolnshire Poacher’, and with the romantic notion that the poacher was not really a bad chap but, rather like the outlaw Robin Hood, was only robbing the rich to give to the deserving poor, that is to say, to himself and his family. in reality there was nothing remotely romantic about the hardships endured by most farm labourers during the first half of the 19th century. when they went poaching, in the winter months when work was hard to come by and there was little food to put on the table, it was not for pleasure but out of desperation. The ending of the Napoleonic wars in 1815 saw a sharp rise in the crime rate as farming plunged into depression. Farmers cut back drastically the numbers of men they employed and wages were kept low while food prices soared. Poaching became much more commonplace as a consequence. a governor of Bedford Prison compiled from the gaol books a set of statistics on crime, from which we learn that between 1812 and 1819 the numbers of prisoners rose threefold, from 106 to 337. during the same period the numbers gaoled each year for offences against the game laws rose disproportionately steeply, from 4 to 75. These figures were only the tip of the iceberg in Bedfordshire; many more poachers went undetected. The penalties were severe. Fines of £5 minimum, when a man in employment could not expect to earn more than 8-10 shillings a week and a young unemployed single labourer received a pittance of 3 shillings a week from the poor rates, could not be paid. The offender almost invariably had to serve instead three months in prison for a first offence, six months and longer for subsequent offences. and who were the magistrates handing down these sentences? They were in the main from the landowning classes against whom the poachers offended. The majority of labouring men and, indeed, a few enlightened philanthropists, could see little justice in this state of affairs. The Reverend sydney smith, man of letters and society wit, summed up the situation neatly when he said that for every ten pheasants that fluttered in the wood, one english peasant was rotting in gaol! despite the inevitable tension between the socially and economically deprived and the well-heeled, well fed hard line upholders of the law, tales of men being executed or transported to australia for poaching are untrue. Many poachers were indeed hanged or transported, but not for poaching per se. desperate men would take desperate measures to avoid being apprehended when gamekeepers came upon them at night. Confrontations often had a violent outcome,
and it was the resulting grievous bodily harm or even murder that earned the penalty of transportation or death. The occupation of gamekeeper was a hazardous business. a particularly tragic case involving some Biggleswade men and the southill Park gamekeeper was reported in the Northampton Mercury newspaper of 16 december 1815: ‘Murder.- a desperate gang of poachers having for some nights infested the estate of william whitbread, esq. at southill, Charles dines, the principal gamekeeper, resolved, if possible, to put a stop to their continued depredations; and, on saturday night, seeing six or seven men in the neighbourhood of the lake, repaired to the spot accompanied by two assistants. Having ordered the men to quit the park, he followed them into the road, and sent one of his comrades to a neighbouring inn for help; but no sooner had he weakened his forces than he and his companion were furiously assailed; and after a scuffle, in which the latter was knocked down senseless, one of the poachers discharged the contents of a gun at the former. The unfortunate man languished until about six o’clock on the sunday evening, when he died in a state of almost perfect sensibility. On the following day an inquest was held before Thomas Times, gent., Coroner for the County of Bedford, and upon examination and dissection of the body upon that occasion it was found that the deceased had received about 36 shots upon the belly, 14 of which having passed through the intestines had penetrated the left lobe of the liver; about three pints of blood were taken from the cavity of the abdomen, and the bowels were discovered in a high state of inflammation as well as partial mortification. The Jury, after a strict and patient investigation, returned a verdict of “wilful murder against some person or persons unknown.”- The deceased, after receiving the ruffian’s fire, was fortunately enabled to discharge in return both the barrels of his gun, the contents of which wounded the greater number of his assailants, and one of them in a very severe manner. The constable of Biggleswade, with a more than usual degree of vigilance, succeeded, on Tuesday last, in apprehending five of these desperadoes, who, on the following day, were conducted to the county gaol at Bedford. The other two have not yet been taken, but we are happy to say that the murderer is among the number of prisoners.- The deceased, who has been many years a faithful servant to his employer, was nevertheless a young man, and has left a widow and four small children.- Mr. whitbread, who accidentally heard of the occurrence on Monday morning, hastened from Cambridge without delay, and was present at the inquest. it is supposed that this gang of poachers consisted of upward of 50 men.’
–––––––––––––
six prisoners were detained in Bedford gaol from 13 december 1815 until their trial for wilful murder at the Bedford lent assizes early in March the following year. They were: edmund Chamberlain, aged 30, the brothers william and Henry albone, aged 23 and 22, John Twelvetrees and John Hopkins, all Biggleswade men, and also Thomas Jeffereys of southill. Chamberlain was found guilty and sentenced to death, the other five being acquitted and discharged. The gaol register recorded that all the prisoners had been orderly and well behaved and that Chamberlain was penitent.
executions were public spectacles then. large crowds turned out to see the hanging, which took place, as was customary, on the roof of the entrance lodge to Bedford Prison on 11 March 1816. another newspaper report revealed that Chamberlain’s body was afterwards given for dissection. The law allowed the medical profession to have the corpses of executed murderers for the use of students of anatomy but could not satisfy the demand, which is why the illegal trade in corpses was becoming a problem around this time. There would be an incidence of this in Biggleswade – but that is another story. There is a memorial to Charles dines on the southill estate near to where he fellcomplement of 33 privates, a sergeant, a corporal and the young, tough and daring lieutenant John Martyn as their commanding Officer. No doubt many of the soldiers volunteered for reasons similar to those that had motivated James albone and the other convict carpenters; many of them had opted for service in africa as an alternative to a severe flogging for misdemeanours in their original units. They were further tempted by the offer of double pay and a free discharge from the army at the end of the expedition. interestingly, not one of the africans employed on the island volunteered; they were obviously aware of the dangers to be faced in the african interior!
–––––––––––––
On 6 april the expedition, numbering 45 europeans, including Park, sailed from gorée on the ‘Crescent’ and on the following day entered the gambia estuary and began the journey upriver. Their escort ship accompanied them as far as the small river port of Jillifree, or Juffure, as it is now known. This place has become internationally famous as the slave ‘factory’ from which the ancestor of alex Haley, immortalised in the author’s best-seller ‘Roots’ was shipped across the atlantic into slavery some 200 years ago. The ‘Crescent’ continued on to the river port of Kaiai or Kaye, which it reached on 15 april. From here, nearly 200 miles inland, was to begin the most arduous part of the journey – the 500-mile overland trek to the Niger. during the next ten days at Kaiai the men set to work unloading their stores and preparing for the journey ahead. More donkeys and other essential provisions were bought from the white traders. each man was allocated a pack donkey and, of course, the soldiers had a full army kit, including clothing, bedding, cooking and camping equipment, swords, muskets and ammunition. There was also food and water to transport, medical supplies, tools, mapping and measuring equipment and a plentiful supply of gifts with which to buy the goodwill of native kings, princes and chiefs along the way. Park was fortunate in procuring at Kaiai the services of a good african guide, isaaco, a trader. Travelling with his wife and child and a large band of native followers who would prove invaluable to Park’s party in times of trouble, isaaco agreed to accompany them as far as the Niger. On the morning of 27 april, given a rousing sendoff by the guns of the ‘Crescent’ and some other vessels at Kaiai, the expedition party set off on the trek. Certainly there was security in travelling with an armed caravan, but there were also real disadvantages; progress was slow, as the donkeys proved difficult to handle and the party had to keep close together. Next month in the final part we learn what happened to James albone and Mungo Park’s expedition.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
REJOICE AND AGAIN I SAY REJOICE
‘Call the Midwife’ has come and gone. Nonnatus House survived for a time the more austere leadership of sister ursula. The midwives have been augmented by nurse Valerie dyer. Challenging issues such as female genital mutilation, the introduction of the pill, and the care of the mentally ill have been explored. and to cap it all, nurse Barbara has had her dreams fulfilled as she marries the local curate and rides with him on a fairground gallopers. what will i do on a sunday evening without it? in the final episode of this series nurse Barbara asks her clergyman father, Canon gilbert, about the secret of his long marriage to her mother. He replies, ‘finding joy in the simple things’.
WATCH YOUR DOGS
we have always been a dog family. My mother used to breed Chihuahuas, but we had many others from griffin to doberman, and i grew up with many dogs in the house.
with a family of our own, a pet seemed natural and for many years our spaniel gave us much love and affection as our children grew up.
Taking the dog out for a long country walk was always a treat, especially for a boy from suburban Manchester, as was letting her off the lead for a serious runabout, which is what many dogs need to remain happy and healthy. at a surgery, about this time last year,
OvenIT’S Cleaning! - It’sJOB a dirty A DIRTY – job! Whyclean do it yourself? so why it yourself
We clean ovens using non-caustic, We clean products ovens usinginnon-caustic, non-toxic your home. non-toxic products in your home.
Ovens • Ranges • Hobs • Extractors • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept) AgasOvens • Ranges • Hobs • Extractors Agas • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept) Fridges • Freezers • Dishwashers Fridges • Freezers • Dishwashers
Single oven ........................................£45 Oven ..................................... £26.00 DoubleSingle oven .......................................£55 Grill ................................................. £7.00 Hobs ............................................... £12.00 Hobs ....................................................£15 Shelves/Racks ................................. £1.50 each Extractors ....................................... £12.00 Extractors & replacement filter...........£15 Microwaves ..................................... £15.00 Bulbs................................................£3.50 Agas and Ranges priced accordingly
Agas and Ranges priced accordingly
Tel: 260188 Tel:01767 01767 260188
or contact James: 07812 666081 email: jstone@ovenmen.com
email: ovenmen@live.co.uk
parent company est. 1998
View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
The Bishop of Bedford
i’ve been thinking about ‘joy’ this lent. it has been the focus of one of the weekly study sessions i have lead in both Bedford and luton. For ‘joy’ is a marvellous thing. unlike happiness and pleasure, with which it is often contrasted, joy is not solely of the emotions – a pleasurable experience that comes and goes; but rather a deeper experience that can be present even when life is tough. it would be strange to say that one is ‘happy’ after a
In Focus with
Alistair by Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP
i had a visit from a farmer, who told me of his despair and annoyance at some dog owners who seem either not to understand the rules of the countryside, or deliberately flout them.
don’t anyone get miffed or on their high horse, for this is not having a go at all dog owners. it is those who do not notice sheep that may be lambing, or that a designated path may still be adjacent to unfenced pas-
APRIL 2017 BULLETIN — 19
funeral, but there are funerals that give ‘joy’. a colleague was talking about his father’s funeral and spoke of it as a sad but joyful occasion, because there was thanksgiving for a life well lived and a deep sense of the presence of god. For Christians the source of joy is our confidence in god. The Jesuit theologian Pierre Teilhard de Chardin said, ‘Joy is the most infallible sign of the presence of god’. C. s. lewis describing his conversion to Christin faith writes of being ‘surprised by Joy’; a joy that once you have experienced it you will want it again. st Paul in his letters urges us to rejoice – Rejoice in the lord always, i will say it again, rejoice (Phil. 4:1) He is at one with Canon gilbert, for when we see joy in the simple things, when we rejoice in one another and the gifts of creation, then we too may well be surprised by Joy.
ture where dogs should not run freely if that puts animals at risk, or those who don’t clean up after their dogs on fields of crops as they would on a pavement, because it must be ‘fertilising’ the fields - which it is not.
Please have a thought before your dogs run free. are they easily controllable if a problem arises? are there any pregnant animals about, or young animals whose mothers might feel they are being threatened? are you willing to clean up in the countryside, where no one can see you, as you would down your own avenue?
i love the countryside i am lucky enough both to live close to and represent, and understand that it is not a free country park for people to take for granted, but a place which is often cared for by others who work in it, but share it with us. as dog owners, let’s do our bit to say thanks by our actions.
20 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
out & about 1,100 Years of Ashwell History The picturesque village of ashwell welcomes visitors to its popular annual event ‘ashwell at Home’, where visitors can enjoy a wide range of things to see and do, with entertainment for all the family. This year marks the 1,100th anniversary of the founding of the village and there is something to see or do to mark each century of the village’s history. stunning gardens both large and small will be open for you to view the many horticultural treasures, including the pretty village cottage garden; you can visit the village lock-up (no longer in use!) and help dig an archaeological test pit to try and discover more ashwell treasures! Children can enjoy free workshops including storytelling, drama and crafts. They can take part in a treasure hunt, fish for treasure and pan for gold! Join in the fun at craft workshops in the school and
11am-5pm Sunday May 14
make May day crowns, garlands and have their faces painted! There will be a ‘Pirates centre’ at the Village Hall with lots of fun activities going on. and, new for 2016, there will be a May Procession at the end of the day, bringing everyone together. www.ashwellathome.org.uk
evenings. The boat which carries 50 passengers also has monthly lunch Cruises to The anchor in great Barford and afternoon Tea Cruises to The Barns Hotel, plus a monthly Jazz Cruise featuring top national and regional jazz trios. The boat is fully licensed for
Community boat’s Geno Washington season launch & The Ram Jam The John Bunyan is Bedford’s Community Boat run by volunteers, Band and provides cruises both public and
private hire on Bedford’s River great Ouse. last year it carried over 7,000 passengers and in total has carried over 22,000 passengers since it was launched in July 2013. This year’s public cruises launch on easter saturday with an evening Fish and Chip supper Cruise, followed on sunday afternoon by an afternoon Tea Cruise, Bank Holiday Monday also has a special afternoon Cruise. Thereafter there are public cruises every Thursday and sunday with Fish & Chip supper Cruises on various Friday and saturday
Bedford Esquires Doors 7.30pm Bank Holiday Sunday April 30
geno originates from evansville in indiana, usa and first came to england in the 1960s as part of the us air Force. His love of Blues and soul music soon found him jamming with local bands in and around ipswich and eventually led him to london where he caused a sensation singing with top R&B acts georgie Fame and the Blue Flames and Zoot Money’s Big Roll Band at the legendary Flamingo Club in soho. His live shows were immortalised in two of the biggest selling albums of the 60s – “Hand Clappin’ Foot stompin’ Funky Butt live” and “Hipsters Flipsters and Finger Poppin’ daddies”. His status as the undisputed “King of soul” was cemented forever by Kevin Rowland and dexy’s Midnight Runners in the 1980’s with the world-wide No.1 smash hit single “geno”, which paid homage to the great man himself. Throughout the years geno and his band have continued to
drinks, has a 5 star Food Certificate, and is available for private functions and parties of all descriptions including wedding cruises. due to being run by volunteers prices are very reasonable and cruises can be booked online at www.johnbunyanboat.org, or by phoning 01908 690301.
tour extensively all over the world and have released several highly acclaimed albums and singles. His latest live double album simply entitled “it’s geno Time”, recorded at the legendary Half Moon in Putney, is widely regarded as his best work to date. geno’s life long love of Blues and R&B has led to yet another chapter in his illustrious career with the long standing rhythm section of the Ram Jam Band (geoff Hemsley on drums, steve Bingham on bass and stuart dixon on guitar) a hardhitting, fast-moving show of classics. Tickets from see tickets priced £15 advance and will be available in person from the usual outlets of esquires Bar, Planet Boutique in Bedford and Mario’s Hair design in Kempston.
BIGGLESWADE SPORTS MEETING 67th Annual Athletic & Grass Track & Cycle Meeting
UNDER AAA RULES RULES – BCF LAWS
FAIRFIELD, BIGGLESWADE 1pm SATURDAY 8th JULY 2017
TRACK EVENTS FOR ALL AGES –MALE AND FEMALE
Admission: Adults 50p, Children 20p MEDAL & PRIZES FOR ALL EVENTS INCLUDING RELAYS
Des Ball, Event Secretary Tel: 01767 313790
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
APRIL 2017 BULLETIN — 21
Gillian Flack at the Eagle Gallery
One woman show
“Landscape Journeys”
10am – 5.30pm Saturday May 6 – Saturday May 13 Meet the Artist between 10am-1pm FREE ENTRY 101 Castle Road, Bedford MK40 3QP Tel: 01234 346995 EAGLE GALLERY IS A NOT FOR PROFIT ARTISTS CO-OPERATIVE
22 — BULLETIN APRIL 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
Kaiser Chiefs headline
Proms ‘Goes to the Movies’
Bedford Park Saturday August 5
Bedford Park Sunday August 6
Kaiser Chiefs are one of the century’s most popular indie-pop outfits. The band formed in 2002 and have enjoyed enormous global success since. They consist of lead vocalist Ricky wilson, who has achieved added fame from his stint as a judge on the uK talent show The Voice, guitarist andrew “whitey” white, bassist simon Rix, keyboardist Nick “Peanut” Baines and drummer Vijay Mistry, who replaced founding drummer Nick Hodgson in late 2012. The band’s big break came along when they performed at the NMe awards tour in 2005, as the opening act. This opportunity allowed the band to start making a name for themselves in the uK. Their first album debuted the same year, entitled ‘employment’, and reached the number two spot on the uK album chart and was subsequently certified five times platinum. The album was even shortlisted for a Mercury prize, but narrowly missed out on the prestigious award. since this encouraging start, the band has fast become one of the most successful uK indie rock bands today. Their most notable hits include ‘i Predict a Riot’, ‘every day
i love you less and less’ (both from their debut album) and smash hit ‘Ruby’ from their second album, amongst many others. Their second album, ‘Yours Truly, angry Mob’ topped the success of their first, reaching the number one spot on the uK albums chart and the album’s lead single ‘Ruby’ became their first ever uK number one single.
Just answer this question: Q: Name the song and fill in the blank – “I predict a .…” email the answer to: info@lphconcerts.co.uk with ‘KAISer ChIeFS CoMP’ in subject line.
WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS
A Great Music Festival For Lovers of Everything Vintage Following last year’s amazing sell-out success, we are excited to announce...
TWINWOOD FESTIVAL • BEDFORDSHIRE • 25, 26, 27, 28 AUGUST 2017
• OVER 100 LIVE PERFORMANCES OF MUSIC FROM THE 1920S TO THE 1960S • THIRTEEN GREAT VENUES • ACRES OF DANCE FLOORS • 150 VINTAGE TRADERS • HAIR & BEAUTY • COMEDY & CABARET • DANCE WORKSHOPS • INTERESTING MUSEUMS • CLASSIC CAR DISPLAYS • GREAT BARS & FOOD INCL. CARVERY • LARGE CAMPSITE W/ GENEROUS PITCHES • GLAMPING & LUXURY CAMPING AVAILABLE • LATE NIGHT CLUBS & DJ SESSIONS
2017
TICKETS
ON SALE NOW
THE MANFREDS • SI CRANSTOUN • ROY G HEMMI NGS
• THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA THE REVOLUTIONAIRES • THE CHICAGO STOMPERS • DOWN FOR THE COUNT • ZOOT SERIOUS • JIVE ACES • MIKE SANCHEZ ELECTRIC SWING CIRCUS • FLEUR DE PARIS • STICKY
WICKET • BASIN STREET BRAWLERS • THREE BELLES J J KING • THE ZOOTS • LAURA B • BENOIT & THE BEVIN BOYS VIELLEFON • THE DAISY CHAINS • CHAMPAGNE CHARLIE • BAMBOOZLE • BO WALTON & THE
THUNDERBRIDGE BLUEGRASS • KING PLEASURE
BISCUIT BOYS • MUDIBU & THE JEZEBEL SEXTET DUSTY LIMITS • GOOD ROCKIN’ TONIGHT • MAT • LOLA LAMOUR • MOSCOW DRUG CLUB WALKLATE & PAOLO FUSCHI • THE BOBCATS • KIERAN TOWERS & CHARLOTTE CARRIVICK • THE THE GOAT ROPER RODEO BAND • LOUNGE CAT KING CATS • GREGGI G • COUNTRY CATTIN’ • IDEALS JOHNNY & THE JAILBIRDS • COCO BOHÈME • STILL-MOVING DJS • SWING NOIR
...PLUS MANY MORE - STILL TO BE ANNOUNCED!
ts this year, it is advised to Due to high demand for ticke price. advantage of our “Early Bird” take to also and , early book
824773 OR FOR INFO CALL 01234
CLICK:
stival.com www.twinwoodfe
THREE ANDAHALF DAYS OF ENTERTAINMENT STARTING FROM FRIDAY 25TH AUGUST
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
looking for a great evening of entertainment the whole family can enjoy? Then Bedford Park Proms should be high on your list of things to go to this summer. The concert will feature guest soloists australian Tenor and west end Musical star daniel Koek. daniel played the iconic role of Jean ValJean in les Miserables and wowed the Bedford Proms audience in 2015. Joining daniel will be soprano Joanna Forest, whose debut album ‘stars are Rising’ was released in March. Joanna is one of the most exciting new British sopranos in the uK right now. The renowned london gala Orchestra and the Bedford Choral society will be performing popular classics and film scores. local school choirs and a special musical
theatre drama group as well as some other special guests will be warming the crowd up before the concert. adults and children alike will love the film theme this year, as along with the favourite classical scores, there will be some exquisite renditions of popular film soundtracks. as always we guarantee an electric atmosphere, laser show as well as the spectacular firework finale. it’s a great opportunity to get the whole family together, you can bring your own picnics and drinks into this concert and set up chairs, picnic tables and gazebo’s if you wish or just lay out the picnic rug. Buy your tickets now at www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk For further information please call louise Harris on 07980 996318 or email louise@louiseharrispr.co.uk
Just answer this question: Q: The proms tenor this year is Daniel Koek – which iconic role did Daniel play in Les Miserables? email the answer to: info@lphconcerts.co.uk with ‘ProM CoMP’ in subject line.
WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
sue RYdeR – sT JOHN’s HOsPiCe The Hospice is situated in the village of Moggerhanger and provides incredible care for those living with incurable illness in our community. each year they need to raise £2.4 million to provide this care. so please come along and support our
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– saNdY TOwN BOwliNg CluB
OPEN DAY
TRY lawN BOwls Beginners welcome Sunday 23rd April, 2.30pm equipment & Coaching provided Must wear flat shoes Meet at Bowling green, behind Village Hall off engayne avenue
––––––––––––––––––––––––
Biggleswade aTHleTiC CluB Based in sandy and open to all ages from eight upwards, BaC features absolute beginners through to regional and international-class athletes. all abilities are welcome across track and field through to road running, cross-country and much more. training is every tuesday and thursday at Sandy Sports Centre, engayne Avenue, Sandy, SG19 1BL with road runners also involved in monthly ‘away days’ – check out the club calendar for session details and come along to try a few www.biggleswadeac.org.uk
–––––––––––––––––––––––– SANDY WALKS 4 HEALTH
sandy walks 4 Health meet every wednesday. These are free short walks ofabout an hour, with a trained walk leader. all welcome, no need to book; just turn up. walks start at 10am, meeting in sandy Market Place outside the opticians. For more information contact: Cathy 01767692182, or Jane Fryer 01767691455, or Mike Fayers (Health walks manager) 01234832619
–––––––––––––––––––––––– MAYFLOWER SOCIAL CLUB
we are a social club for the over 50’s and we are located at Charter House at st andrews Church in Biggleswade. we meet every wednesday and Fridays from 2pm – 4pm we have various activities including games, raffles, bingo and often have a speaker attend to share different topics with us. we also organise day trips out, Christmas dinner and much much more. we are a friendly group of all different ages, all are welcome and we are always looking for new members. There is an entrance fee of £1 per person. There is a bus service available in the Biggleswade area for a nominal fee of £1.00, which is a return journey. For any other information please call 01767 314652 and ask for Beryl or 01767 316711 and ask for eileen.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– THE SANDY UKULELE GROUP meet every Friday at the Baptist Chapel Hall, Bedford Road, sandy. 7pm till 9pm. For more information on joining the group please email the group : sandyukulelegroup1@gmail.com www.sandyukulelegroup.com
Saturday 22nd April 10.00 – 1.00pm in Wilstead Village hall (Cotton end road) Please make a note of this event in your diary and come along and support this very worthwhile cause. if you would like to help with donations of cakes and raffle prizes, it would be very much appreciated.
COFFEE MORNING
Please contact Ray on 07749876923. saNdY FlOweR CluB Monday 10th April
–––––––––––––––––––––––– we will be making a garland – please bring a selection of small foliage and flowers of your choice. starts at 7.30pm – Visitors welcome at £5.00 entrance on the door. There will be a raffle and tea and coffee. we meet at the Conservative Bowls Club pavilion (Rear of the Conservative Club, Bedford Rd.) The Flower Club meets every second Monday in the month at 7.30pm and new members are always welcome. For more information please call: sue alexander: Tel. 01767 699729 or email: sue.e.alexander2@gmail.com
FLORAL WORKSHOP
–––––––––––––––––––––––– TENNIS FOR Beginners Children – Adults Seniors experienced Players all welCOMe Jack: 01767 692242 www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk
saNdY HORTiCulTRal assOCiaTiON
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ‘PUTTING PESTICIDES INTO PERSPECTIVE’
with speaker Andrew Havergal Sandy Conservative Bowls Pavilion on Wednesday 19th April at 7.30p.m. admission £2.50 members £3.50 visitors. Optional meal afterwards to book meal contact 01767 680983/681457 www.thesandyshow.org.uk
–––––––––––––––––––––––– SANDY ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Founded in 2014 by residents of sandy and surrounding areas, we are a group of keen astronomers of all abilities. we meet on the first Thursday of every month at Mamas Coffee shop (High street, sandy) and have regular viewing sessions on the grounds of sandye Place academy. You don’t need to own a telescope to join in. Club members are always willing to share their equipment and expertise, and if you become a member our club telescopes are available for hire for a small fee. wrap up warm and we’ll see you there!
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– CANCER SUPPORT BADMINTON GROUP we are a social mixed group who meet every Biggleswade aNd suRROuNdiNg Villages we are a group for Cancer patients their families and friends. a place to meet others and share mutual support. Come and have a chat, a cup of tea or coffee in a friendly, informal confidential environment. we look forward to meeting you. every first and third Thursday of the month. The Community Rooms, Baptist Church 24, london Road, Biggleswade sg18 8eB 1pm - 3pm Telephone, secretary amanda 01767 313662 or gina 07812796581 csgbiggleswade@gmail.com FB. Cancer support group Biggleswade.
Thursday night at stratton school to play Badminton, from 8pm till 10pm in the sports Hall, we are of mixed ability but most are of an intermediate standard To find out more please contact Alan on 07974187866 or Colin on 01767 317099 we invite all stroke survivors & their carers to join our
–––––––––––––––––––––––– Meetings are held at stonecroft, st swithins way, sandy on the third Monday of each month 7.30pm. Transport can be arranged. speakers, outings & entertainment througout the year. Please contact 01767 680503 for further imformation.
IVEL STROKE CLUB
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––
BRiTisH Red CROss BedFORdsHiRe sunday 23rd april, oPen GArDen The King’s arms, ampthill, Beds., MK45 2PP 2 – 5pm, drinks & cakes, Parking. Tickets £3.00 pay on entry. –––––––––– Tuesday 9th May FLoWer ArrAnGInG DeMonStrAtIon AnD ShoPPInG oPPortUnItY at savin’s wholesalers, Vinegar Hill, Hatch, sandy, Bedfordshire, sg19 1PR 11am – 3pm, Refreshments, soup & cakes, raffle & tombola. Free Parking. Tickets £10.00 available from sandra on 01582 589084. Further details on website redcross.org.uk –––––––––– sunday 21st May, oPen GArDenS The Manor House and The Old Rectory, Milton ernest, Beds., MK44 1RF, 1 – 5pm, drinks & cakes, Plant stall, Parking. Tickets £4.50 pay on entry
APRIL 2017 BULLETIN — 23
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––––––––––––––––– WiRE i am the Bedfordshire Network leader for www.wiRe.org – we offer a meeting most months on the last wednesday of the month to women in small business. our next meeting is on May 31st at 7pm the Crown northill. Networking and support for women in small business. First visit free. Contact me on astroshola.co.uk@gmail.com Teresa Bellmaine
saNdY HisTORiCal ReseaRCH gROuP Public exhibition of
–––––––––––––––––––––––– Old photos maps etc. Saturday 22nd April, 11.00 am to 3.00pm at Beeston Methodist Church hall (ample parking) entrance only £1 (Members free) Feel free to bring interesting memories or photos of sandy or Beeston to share and discuss
HISTORIC SANDY,
–––––––––––––––––––––––– THE IVEL BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT CENTRE
Has a lOVed ONe died? Perhaps we can help you at our drop-in centre at: The Community Rooms, Baptist church, 24 London Road, Biggleswade SG18 8EB Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon Telephone: Carole or Jill on 07704 734225 for more information. • a place of friendship, compassion and understanding. • Fully trained bereavement support volunteers are always on hand to listen while you talk through your grief. • somewhere to meet others coping with bereavement issues. • Come and make new friends – a warm welcome awaits you.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– BIGGLESWADE WALK FOR HEALTH Two Regular weekly walks 40-90 minutes Plus one for those who wish to go further Wednesdays at 10.00am walking with John and his team. Meeting at dan albone Car Park, shortmead street, Biggleswade Thursdays at 10.00am walking with Rosario and his team. Meeting Outside stratton school gates, Biggleswade JusT TuRN uP For those looking to do more: Tuesday at 2.00pm a Medium to Fast walk of 1.5 – 2hrs For further details please contact: Janette sibley: Tel: 0777 154 0117 e-mail: janette@sibley.me.uk Mike Fayers, Bedfordshire Health walks Manager, Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity Tel: 01234 832619 e-mail: mikef@bedsrcc.org.uk, The Old school, Cardington MK44 3sX
Biggleswade BRaNCH ROYal BRiTisH legiON st andrews Church Rooms in Biggleswade MEETINGS 26th Apr 17 @ 7pm 31st May 17 @ 7pm 28th Jun 17 @ 7pm 26th Jul 17 @ 7pm 27th Sep 17 @ 2.30pm 25th oct @ 2.30pm AGM will take place on Wednesday 29th november at 2.30pm in the same location. we are always welcoming new members, whether they were military, attached to the military either as Civil servants, or through family or even if they have nothing to do with the military at all, we would love to see new faces, young or old.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– TRINITY METHODIST CHURCH Sunday April 2nd 10.30am Rev. Prof Peter Byass, Cafe style service. Sunday April 9th 9.30am Rev. Prof Peter Byass Communion service. 10.30am Mr. Keith lilley. thursday April 13th 7.00pm. a Maundy Thursday Communion service with agape meal. Sunday April 16th eASter SUnDAY There will be a sunrise service with Churches together at Jubilee wood at 5.45am 8am communion service led by Rev. Prof Peter Byass followed by breakfast then at 10.30am the service will again be led by Rev. Prof Peter Byass. Sunday April 23rd 10.30am local worship (T.b.a.) Sunday April 30th 10am NOTe eaRlieR TiMe Rev. Prof Peter Byass the Church general Meeting will follow this service No service at Trinity BuT there will be circuit Healing service at HaYNes Methodist church at 6pm
–––––––––––––––––––––––– saNdY HisTORiCal sOCieTY 7.3opm Friday April 28th Stonecroft hall, St Swithins Way. Sandy.
THE HISTORY OF PUB SIGNS
by Mark Andrew Pardoe entrance fee £2.00 including refreshments. Members Free For further details please contact the secretary 01767 680171
–––––––––––––––––––––––– BUGGY FIT CL ASSES Thursday 1pm-2pm the Weatherly Centre orchard Close Biggleswade SG18 0ne To book, please email robyn1.sg@gmail.com or call 0300 300 5125. Tuesday 12-2pm Saxon Pool and Leisure Centre, Biggleswade £2 per session
WALKING FOOTBALL
Tuesday 2pm-3pm @ Saxon Pool & Leisure Centre, Biggleswade £1.50 per session Please note: all classes are subject to change, so please email us on physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk for more information
–––––––––––––––––––––––– SANDY ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Founded in 2014 by residents of sandy and surrounding areas, we are a group of keen astronomers of all abilities. we meet on the first Thursday of every month at Mamas Coffee shop (High street, sandy) and have regular viewing sessions on the grounds of sandye Place academy. You don’t need to own a telescope to join in. Club members are always willing to share their equipment and expertise, and if you become a member our club telescopes are available for hire for a small fee. wrap up warm and we’ll see you there!
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––
The Bulletin series are independent magazines with no affiliation to any other organisation. Š2017 Rosetta Publishing ltd. 30 Radwell Road, Milton ernest MK44 1sH. Tel: 07894 935952 or 07724 905406. email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com or advertising@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Mortons Print limited. Newspaper House, Morton way, Boston Road, Horncastle, lincolnshire lN9 6JR