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BULLETIN SANDY, BEESTON & BIGGLESWADE EDITION
AUGUST 2016
Biggleswade TOWN COUNCIL
COUNCIL MEETINGS: 9 August COUNCIL
16 August – 10am PERSONNEL 23 August COUNCIL
13 September COUNCIL
20 September PUBLIC LANDS & OPEN SPACES 27 September COUNCIL
With the exception of the Joint Committee meeting, all meetings are held in the Council Chamber, Saffron Road, Biggleswade and commence at 7pm unless otherwise notified. ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND
THE ORCHARD COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND EAST OF BIGGLESWADE
Biggleswade Town Council will be taking over responsibility for the new Community Centre Keep an eye on our website for further details.
KNOW YOUR COUNCILLORS
Cllr David Albone MAYOR Labour – Ivel Cllr Michael R North DEPUTY MAYOR Conservative – Holme Cllr Peter Biernis Labour – Ivel Cllr Ian J Bond Conservative – Ivel Cllr Bernard V Briars Labour – Ivel Cllr Frank S Foster UKIP – Ivel Cllr Mark A Foster Independent – Stratton
Cllr Ms Rebecca Kerfoot Labour – Ivel Cllr Mrs Hazel Ramsay Conservative – Stratton Cllr Bernard J Rix Independent – Stratton Cllr Mrs Madeline A Russell Conservative – Ivel Cllr Duncan A Strachan UKIP – Stratton Cllr Steven Watkins Conservative – Stratton Cllr Timothy P Woodward Conservative – Holme
GENERAL MARKETS on the Market Square Tuesdays and Saturdays 8am-4pm
We are currently re-launching our Farmers’ Market as:
FARMERS’ AND CRAFT MARKET Are you a local craft enthusiast? We would like to invite you to trade on our monthly Farmers’ and Craft Market. The rent is currently only £9.90, we even supply a stall.You will need to hold current Public Liability Insurance and Food Hygiene Certificate (if applicable). If this sounds of interest to you, please call Biggleswade Town Council and ask for Sue or Kay.
FARMERS’ AND CRAFT MARKETS (on the last Wednesday of each month)
31 August & 28 September
On the Market Square 9am – 2pm
Where you can buy locally produced meat, pies, cakes, eggs, Bedfordshire Clangers, HOT pork rolls, Hand-made cushions and NOW PVC Oil Cloth Bags (Handbags, Shoppers, Mini totes, weekend bags, baby bags, purses, coin purses etc.)
CHARITY STALL BOOKINGS On the 1st September we will start to take bookings for 2017 So if you have a preference for a particular date or time of year, please give us a call.
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MARKETS Biggleswade Town Council The Old Court House, 4 Saffron Road Biggleswade SG18 8DL Tel: 01767 313134 Fax: 01767 601188 Email: enquiries@biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk www.biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
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Sandy Cadets celebrate competition success
Air Cadets and staff from 22 since its inception eight years ago. (Sandy) Squadron recently returned The Squadron also managed to take from their most successful Wing fifth place in the Drill competition, Field Weekend competition in 11th at Ensemble, and a new best of eighth overall to make this the Squadron history. The annual event held at rAF Squadron’s most successful Wing Wyton, Cambridgeshire, bringing Field Weekend. Cadet Flight Sergeant Peter together all 30 Squadrons and Detached Flights in Bedfordshire Hessey commented: “After months and Cambridgeshire Wing, camping of training and practice it’s fantastic out on base from the evening of to see that hard work translated into results. All the cadets have worked Friday 24th till Sunday 26th June. Throughout the weekend, the exceptionally hard, and we hope to cadets compete in a number of exer- continue this into the future.” if you would like MOrE inforcises to test leadership and teamwork, as well as drill & banner drill, mation email recruitment@sandyaircraft recognition, ensemble, aero aircadets.org.uk or www.sandy-air modelling, code breaking and the cadets.org.uk. media & photographic competitions. Sunday morning the cadets took part in the Wing Parade & review, with the reviewing officer this year being the rAF Assistant Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice-Marshal richard Knighton. For a second year Cadet Warrant Officer Laura Dorrell had the honour of carry the Wing Banner on the parade, and six cadets represented the Squadron in the Escort Squadron to the banner. During the parade our Squadron Civilian Committee came runner-up for the Wg Cdr Lang Civilian Committee Shield for their hard work over the last year, and Civilian instructor Jeffrey Henshaw was a runner-up for the Davies Cup. Also during the Sunday, five cadets from the Squadron took part in the Armed Forces Day parade in Huntingdon in support of rAF Wyton. This year the Squadron achieved a new first by winning the banner CWO Laura Dorrell, carrying the drill competition, and becoming only wing banner, speaking with the second Squadron to win the event reviewing officer AVM Knighton.
Banner Drill Team with the trophy. (L-R) Cpl George Arnold, FS Ian Mansion, Cdt Elliot Croucher, FS Peter Hessey, Cpl Foster.
AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 3
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Sandy Show’s Golden Jubilee
THiS year’s Sandy Show, on Saturday 20th August, marks the 50th ‘Golden Jubilee’ event of the modern era. As well as the traditional horticultural and handicraft elements, we will be providing attractions and entertainment for all the family to enjoy. in the main hall will be prize winning horticultural exhibits of vegetables, flowers, plants, fruit, floral art, with junior classes and entries from Sandy Library, not forgetting, home brewing, cakes, breads, preserves, artwork, handicrafts and photography. in all, there are over 170 classes to enter including 25 classes for juniors. There will be stalls operated by local traders, both inside and outside in the grounds, selling a range of craft and gift items, confectionery and plants. This year also marks the return of the ‘Tea Tent!’ There will also be hot food and ice cream on sale. Attractions include Classic Cars, Face Painting, Fair rides & Bouncy Castle, Punch & Judy, music by local musician, Stuart Cements and the ever popular Animal Encounters with Chris Welbourn. Making a return to the Show will be Michael Smith and his owls. indoors, there will be an exhibition by Sandy Historical research Group, displaying photographs and documents from bygone years in the town. At the end of the Show, we are delighted that Ms. ruth Bell MBE DL, Deputy Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, will be presenting the awards and trophies to the winning Show class entries. As usual, the show is being held in the main hall and grounds of Sandye Place Academy SG19 1JD, gates open from 12 noon – 5.00 p.m. Entrance is just £1 with accompanied children under 16 free. There is plenty of parking around the grounds if you are visiting form out of town please follow the direction signs and any instructions given by our parking marshals. The association is as ever most grateful for the generous ongoing support of our sponsors, advertisers and volunteers, without whom the show could not run. Show guides and schedules are available from Sandy information point (within the Town Council Offices in Cambridge road, High Street Crafts, Sandy Library, Gunns Bakery Mamas Coffee Shop (where we will be exhibiting a selection of Show photos through the month of July), Sandy Greetings and Stationery and the Queens Head. See our website at thesandyshow.org.uk
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AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 5
Town Hall clock receives 21st century upgrade THE Town Hall clock has recently been fitted with a 21st century technology intelligent system. The controller receives a radio signal from the national master atomic clock from a laboratory in the North of England. This signal is accurate to a quarter of a second in ten million years and also sends signals to adjust the summer and winter hour changes automatically. Previously the clock would suffer from power failures leaving the hands reading the wrong time. Now a master control system has been fitted and the clock will no longer suffer with long term power failures as it is now constantly monitored. Should there be a power failure, the system will be aware of the duration of the power cut and the hands will automatically be advanced to the correct time. Both dials have been fully restored using 23.5 carat gold leaf and new soft mellow back lighting has also been installed. This lighting is on for 24 hours a day and will enable you to read the time during hours of darkness, or, during the day when the weather is overcast. Peter ran his clock restoration business in Biggleswade for ten years and regularly maintained the clock during that time until he retired to Spain 12 years ago. He kindly offered to tender for the repair of the circa 1840 Drum Clock and travelled by car with his trusted tools to carry out the specialist service again for the people of Biggleswade. (l-r) Rob McGregor, Town Clerk) with Peter Fletcher Master Clock Maker.
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AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 7
Sprinter’s 25th year
MANy readers will know, the ivel Sprinter operates a timetabled bus service with volunteer drivers to allow local residents to reach Biggleswade Market Square, their local Supermarket, Doctors, Library etc and other local towns /villages including Potton and Sandy. This is our 25th year and we are celebrating it in style with new waistcoats, kindly supplied by Hutchinsons Builders and name badges from The Lion Press and Balaam Brothers Fencing. We interrupted our service pat-
SG19 Road Safety Group
HAVE you ever been involved in or witnessed an accident at the junction of New road with the A1 in Sandy? This is a dangerous junction and the SG19 road Safety Group has been pressing the powers that be to introduce improvements that would increase safety at minimal cost. improved white road markings and a no-U-turn sign for northbound traffic together with a no right turn sign for HGV’s would make a great difference. Some years ago, our MP visited Sandy and saw the junction for himself, agreeing that it was dangerous. Central Bedfordshire Council says that the junction is nothing to with them although New road is, of course, their responsibility. it is to be hoped that they will not let the problems slide but will work with Highways England to bring improvements into being. if you have been involved in an accident or witnessed one at this junction in the past five years, please e-mail the Group via our website – www.SG19.org – and, if you have yet to do so, please sign our petition online to add support to our views that priority needs to be given to improving this junction as a matter of urgency.
tern recently to have a presentation at Potton Fire Station; where a formal hand over was made by rob Hutchinson, supported by Martin West to Gerry Amsden ivel Sprinter Secretary. Also in attendance were a number of our drivers. A thank you is due to all our regular users for their support over the 25 years! We also look forward to receipt of a new bus in December to ensure we keep the wheels turning! Peter Davies Publicity Manager, Ivel Sprinter
Bowlers are ready to invade Following their victory at the Bedfordshire County Semi-Finals a group of Ladies from Biggleswade Town Bowls Club will be heading off to Royal Leamington Spa between 6-20 August to compete in the National Finals. Jayne Christie who started bowling aged 14, 39 years ago, and represented England from 2000-2013 has completed a hat trick by qualifying in all three of her competitions. She will compete in the two wood singles and four wood singles and along with her daughter Hannah McConnell, herself an ex-junior international from 2006-2010, in the pairs. Sue Stone and Chrissie King, both relatively new to the game have also qualified to compete in the pairs. Wendy Walker, Elaine Whiteman and Cheryl Hills will compete in the triples. What a season Biggleswade Bowling Club has had so far and there are still two further competitions which could see more ladies through to the finals. Pictured: Hannah McConnell, Jayne Christie, Sue Stone & Chrissie King - pairs qualifiers.
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8 — BULLETIN AUGUST 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
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SANDY TOWN COUNCIL Getting married? Haven’t booked your photographer yet? To celebrate the launch of our new local wedding photography business, a special offer is available for bookings made during 2016. For further details, please visit our website:
www.cherylbailey.co.uk
THE next Walk is a Guided Tour of the Village of Cardington on Sunday, 14th August. Meet at Cardington Village Hall, Southill Road, Cardington (opposite Kings Arms PH) at 2.30pm Cardington is an estate village belonging to the Whitbread family of Southill Park. We will see the delightful houses, cottages and other historic buildings erected by the estate from the 18th century and the cottages erected by the famous prison reformer, John Howard, whose house can be found close to the parish church. There will be a guided tour of the interior of this beautiful church much of which was rebuilt in in 1901. The most magnificent monuments in the church are those to the Whitbread family and these can be found in the north chapel together with a very rare Wedgwood black basalt font. The tattered ensign of the r101 can be found displayed on the nave walls. Construction of the r101 commenced at the airship sheds at Cardington in 1926. These sheds were known as the royal Airship Work. The r101 left Cardington in October 1930 for india carrying 54 passengers and crew together with a number of dignitaries, including Lord Thomson, Secretary of State for Air. Over France, strong winds
were encountered and after losing height the r101 crashed into a hillside at Beauvais. The resulting crash led to the ignition of gas bags and the r101 was engulfed in flames and crashed into a hillside in France. Of the 54 on board, 46 died at the scene while a further two succumbed to their injuries in hospital. We will visit their cemetery and see the impressive grave and memorial to the 48 people who died. The final Walk of the year is The Squires Walk, Sandy – part of the Bedfordshire Walking Festival on Wednesday 14th September. The Talks commence in October and will be as follows:October – ‘Parliament through 40 years of challenge and change’ by Lord Naseby November – ‘The Great Northern railway through Bedfordshire’ by George Howe December – ‘Growing a Business in Sandy’ by richard Banks Guided Walks are £5.50pp, payment on booking. No refunds are available unless the Council cancels or changes the date of the walk. Sandy Town Council, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
SANDY TOWN COUNCIL Free dog training and Children’s “Design a behavioural classes in Sandy Christmas Light” competition Spend a fun packed ho in ur and to the Christmas Lights
a half with Dogzaloud, one of Bedfordshire’s do g training and behavioura l centres! There will be two ses sions during the summ er, the first on Wednesday 24th August 2016 betw een 7pm-8.30pm at Sunderl and Road Recreation Ground and the secon d on Sunday 4th Septe mber 2016 between 10am-12 noon at Fallowfield Pa rk. The sessions will includ e obedience, searching and fun agility (all exercises will be tailored to the ag e and ability of the dog). The sessions are for dogs tha t are comfortable around pe ople and other dogs. Al l participants must be reg istered to take part. For booking and more information please conta ct the Town Council offices on 01767-681491 or admin@sandytowncou ncil.gov.uk.
COUNCIL MEETING DATES All meetings commence at 7.30pm except Development Scrutiny Committee (Planning) which starts at 6.30pm in the Council Chamber, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE
Monday 1 August 2016 Town Council Monday 8 August 2016 Development Scrutiny Community Services & Environment Monday 22 August 2016 Policy, Finance & Resources Monday 5 September 2016 Development Scrutiny Monday 12 September 2016 Town Council See our website for details of other meetings ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND
ents As part of the enhancem na cil is organising a“Desig un Co wn To the town the etition. Christmas Light” Comp d 12 to between the ages of 5 an We are inviting children into a de ma ht which will then be design a Christmas Lig er ov y nd sign and put up in Sa rope light illustrative de the ve e lucky winner will ha the Christmas period. Th ir Christmas Light at the honour of turning on the ay 4th December 2016. switch-on event on Sund er 2016. en until the 10th Octob The competition is op ase and application forms ple For further information or 91 cil offices on 01767 6814 contact the Town Coun ncil.gov.uk. admin@sandytowncou
TOWN CO UNCILLOR S
BEESTON W ARD Cllr M P Sco Home 01767 68 tt Work 01767 68 1457 09 “The Gowans” 83 Se Nursery, Great ddington No Seddington, Sa rth Road nd scott729@btinte y SG19 1NZ rnet.com
IVEL WARD PINNACLE Cllr P Blain WA e Cllr P N Ald RD 01767 692619 is 01 76 7 691333 19 Poplar Clos e, 7 M ay field Cour Sandy SG19 1H Sandy SG19 1N t, peterblaine.blain H e@gmail.com nigel.aldis1@gmF ail.com Cllr M Hill Cllr J Ali 01767 681469 01767 689743 or 21 The Gree FALLOWFIEL 22 Market Squa 07962 361102 D WARD SG19 1PE n, Beeston, Sandy SG19 1J re, Cllr T Cole amaxhill@outlo A ok.com. Cllr C Osbor Home 01767 69 Cllr W Jack 98 88 M.B.E., J.P. ne 1 Partridge Piec 01767 682549 son Sandy SG19 2U e, 01 767 682032 14 Westfield Ga rd teresacole@ho P Summercourt, Sandy SG19 1H ens, 2 tmail.co.uk Drive, Sandy SG Leeds Smith will.jackson662@F Cllr G Leac 19 1LU btinternet.com h Cllr D Quick 01767 681491 Cllr M J Pet 07932 331227 C/o Sandy Town 01767 680082 titt 1 Cauldwell Co 10 Cambridge Council 42 Swansholm urt, Sandy Road, e SG19 1DA Sandy SG19 1J Sandy SG19 1H Gardens, L dl sh or admin@sandyto E se s@ hotmail.co.uk martin.pettitt@vir wncouncil.gov.u ginmedia.com k Cllr D Sha Cllr P Sharm Cllr S J Sut rm an 01767 683868 an 07889 599556 01767 227589 ton 21 Fa lco 3 Swallow Cres n Close, Sandy SG 33 Bedford Road 19 2TA Sandy SG19 2St, Sandy SG19 1E , Cllr J Sparr N P ow 01767 682693 C/o Sandy Town 10 Cambridge Council Ro Sandy SG19 1J ad, E
10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
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College’s record 1,200 students SHUTTLEWOrTH College students celebrated the end of term with a Summer Ball and Awards ceremony within the grounds of Old Warden Park. The successful cohort who studied land-based courses were presented with their awards by Team GB Olympic Gold Medallist Tim Bailee MBE. Director of Shuttleworth College and Vice Principal of Bedford College Mike Johnston said that there were a record number of 1,200 students in 2015/16: “Shuttleworth College has served the land-based industries and the rural economy for 60 years and, from 1 August 2009, formed a partnership with Bedford College who have an excellent reputation for providing high quality education.
Tim Bailee presents the Archie Edmonds Trophy for the student making the most contribution to student activities in 2015 jointly awarded to Holly Greenhaugh, and Harry Mansbridge.
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She’s a winner The lucky winner of a Panasonic SMART BluRay player worth £90 in this years Carnival Grand raffle was Mrs Piggins from Gravenhurst, who is pictured receiving her prize from Sheldon Electricals’ owner Phil Sheldon at their shop in Hitchin Street, Biggleswade. Mrs Piggins said that she was absolutely delighted with her prize as she didn’t have a bluray or DVD player and was thinking about buying one!
Operation Christmas Child
OPErATiON Christmas Child is a project which sends shoeboxes full of gifts to under-privileged children world-wide. For the past twelve years a group of volunteers has checked and packed the boxes ready for transport to Eastern Europe. This has been done in premises in the Biggleswade area. The number of boxes received last year was around 6000. The success of the project is largely dependent on the willingness of volunteers and we are now seeking more people to help with this valuable and rewarding work. if you might be able to give up some of your time during November, we would welcome you to join our team. in particular, we are looking for some help with co-ordinating the collections of boxes from churches, schools and other organisations. Please call 01767 312939.
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AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 11
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View from
In Focus with
Bishop Richard
Alistair
by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford
by Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP
TO HAVE FOUGHT WELL
THE memories come flooding back! As the opening of the 2016 Olympic Games in rio on 5th August draws near there are returning memories of Danny Boyle’s great opening drama; of the ‘Queen’ and James Bond parachuting out of the helicopter; of the great venues and the wonderful Games Makers; and above all of the marvellous achievements of our sportsmen and sportswomen reflected. i am sure that you, like me, look forward with anticipation to another great sporting endeavour.
yet we are not sure that some athletes will be present; we know more and more about the doping scandals; and we are dismayed by the manner in which Olympic ideals of integrity, fairness and honest competition have been tarnished. Sadly, the Olympic Oath sounds rather hollow: “in the name of all the competitors i promise that we shall take part in these Olympic Games, respecting and abiding by the rules which govern them, committing ourselves to a sport without doping and without drugs, in the true spirit of sportsmanship, for the glory of sport and the honour of our teams.”
in 1908 Baron de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games, heard a sermon by Bishop Ethelbert Talbot, Bishop of Central Pennsylvania, at a service in St Paul’s Cathedral to mark the opening of the London Games. Focusing on the words of St Paul in his Second Letter to the Corinthians (9:24-27) which speak of how only one can win the earthly prize, but how all can gain a higher reward, the Bishop inspired his hearers to focus not on winning but on the spirit of taking part. Speaking later at a reception Baron de Coubertin uttered what is now the Olympic Creed: "The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph, but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered, but to have fought well."
i look forward to the Games in rio with all its colour, carnival and human achievement. i pray, however, that all will have ‘fought well’ when the Olympic Torch is extinguished and moves onto Tokyo 2020..
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A TRANSFER OF POWER
THE last four weeks have been as startling in modern politics as anything since the end of the Second World War. in the space of a month we have seen the end of a forty year relationship with the European Union, our major foreign policy position, the resignation of a Prime Minister still not fifty years of age, the completion of an internal party process to find another, and the appearance of chaos in the major Opposition party as it seeks to resolve a stalemate between its members and MPs. While all this is being done, most people’s lives go on regardless, and quite right too. What matters to people is that they have work to go to, that their family concerns over health, education or welfare are being attended to, and that they are safe. The ‘Westminster bubble’ can seem a bit remote. yet of course the events i have described will have a significant bearing on all the above. i do not yet know how our leaving the EU will affect my constituents, once the nonsense of the campaigns dies down. But i do know that the speed of political transfer of power in the UK serves us well. The people elected a Government last year, with a majority to govern, and a mandate to lead until 2020. That will be fulfilled. We have had to change our leader, and quickly, and a new government of Ministers forms rapidly to ensure that the new circumstances of leaving the EU and its consequences becomes our top priority. This will not be a smooth process. But i will do all i can, now outside the Government, to make sure that this process works as well as possible in the interests of all.
T
LETTER TO THE EDITOR REFERENDUM ISSUES
HE EU referendum has highlighted the many different views held by people in our country and quite rightly created much debate. We voted to remain in the EU but accept that the majority who voted did not wish to. Sadly the political far right who attached themselves to the leave campaign have used their success as a mandate to further their racist agenda, intimidating, abusing and threatening people of different race, nationality or faith. in the east of England there has been a campaign of vile abuse on Facebook and Twitter and posters and letters delivered to peoples homes and in the streets. This makes us ashamed to be British, and we are sure that the majority of people who voted to leave are also appalled at this behaviour. This is not the England
we recognise or want. We are a welcoming, democratic and multicultural society. We would like to apologise to the people in our region who have been insulted in this way. immigration is an issue that needs to be resolved but the deep rooted causes are the poverty and inequality in different areas of the UK. This has been fostered by a government that has forced cuts on the poorest people and on the most impoverished areas. Money needs to go to local government to build houses, expand schools and local services thereby also creating jobs. As one of the richest countries in the world, this should be achievable. We now have the opportunity to thrash out a new vision for the UK which we hope will be inclusive and not vilify any members of our society. C M and R W Mackenzie, Sandy
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Don’t move – improve! Have you noticed that once the warmer weather arrives and the sun starts streaming through the windows, everything seems to look as if it could use a facelift! This can be anything from extending your existing property, Continued on page 15
AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 13
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AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 15
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AROUND THE CLUBS Ivel Evening Townswomen’s Guild
CHAirMAN Chris Davies welcomed members to the meeting on Monday, July 8. Birthday greetings were given to Joyce Bilcock, Brenda Brown, Gwyneth Lawton, Sheila Mills and Angela Williamson. The monthly walk at Henlow was followed by lunch at Langford Garden Centre. The trip to Milton Keynes theatre to see Guys and Dolls was very well attended and those members who took part in the backstage tour of the theatre found it to be very informative and enjoyable. Bobbie Ball, Angela Williamson and Joan Chelley attended the National Annual General Meeting held in Bournemouth. Ann Taylor read the report of the meeting. Three new guilds have been formed during the
past year and Cheadle achieved 29 new members. The meeting voted on two mandates: ‘TG firmly believes that next of kin should not have the right to prevent doctors from taking any parts from the body that a registered donor consented to donate’ and ‘TG applauds the passing of the modern slavery act 2015 and urges local authorities, law enforcement agencies, immigration officers and all others involved in tackling human trafficking and modern slavery to cooperate and ensure this legislation is upheld’ - both mandates were passed. Next year’s meeting will be in Sheffield when it is hoped some of our members will attend. Forthcoming guild events are as follows: an afternoon walk on Monday, August 8 meeting at 2pm at Wimpole Hall followed by afternoon tea; Federation quiz evening Friday, August 19; National Carol Service, Ely
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Cathedral Thursday, December 8. The National Brewery, Burton on Trent trip had to be cancelled owing to insufficient numbers. The speaker for the evening, Frank Batt a local poet reading his poems, was thoroughly enjoyed. He took an English degree later in life and that combined with his love of cycling often inspired his poetry and represented his view on local areas. He read out many poems based on his experiences and observations of local places and people, together with an explanation of how these inspired him. His reading of the poetry using appropriate accents and dialogues really brought his work to life and at times were very humorous. He was thanked by Gill Hibbert. The next meeting will be on Monday, September 12 when there will be the harvest supper, there will be
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a charge of £3.00 and members will be required to bring a plate, dish and cutlery. The competition will be an item beginning with the letter P. 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. THE Chairman, Ann Taylor, welcomed members to their last meeting meeting on Tuesday 12th July at Biggleswade Academy, Holmemead prior to their move to new premises at St Andrew’s Chapter House. Those members who attended the poetry afternoon had enjoyed a very pleasant and amusing occasion. The art group will be meeting on Tuesday 6th September at Asda Meeting room when the subject will be ‘Leaves & Berries’. Any one is welcome to attend as there is plenty of room. Book group 1 will meet on Monday 12th September at Jean Williams’ house. Book Group 2 will meet on Friday 12th August at Val MacSweeney’s house. The Craft group will be meeting at Joy Cooper’s house on Thursday when they will continue making smiley cushions house for St John’s. The Music Group met on Tuesday 19th July at Nettie Van De Weerd’s house. The Walking Group met on Wednesday 20th July at 10.30am at rowney Warren. The Sunday Lunch Club met at Stratton House on Sunday 17th when all enjoyed a delicious meal. Ann introduced the speaker, Len Little who was to talk about ‘Specialist Search Dogs – Part 2’. Len had spent 17 years as a dog handler and 10years as a dog trainer. He told about his first sight as a child up a tree, of a dog handler arresting a man which inspired him with the ambition to be a dog handler. Len told of his opportunities to travel and train in Germany when he was given a Churchill award. He explained that drug dogs are taught to distinguish between 128 drug types, explosive dogs for 32 types of explosive, sniffer dogs search out cash. Trained dogs are also used for screening at airports and victim recovery. Dogs live with their handlers and are taught by play to recognise specific scents. Sadly due to financial constraints dog numbers have been reduced. Len had enjoyed a varied and interesting career and he imparted his enthusiasm for the subject. Ann thanked him for a most enjoyable and informative talk. Closing the meeting the Chairman wished the members a good summer break and reminded them that the next meeting will be on Tuesday 13th September 2016 at the Chapter House, St Andrew’s Church, Shortmead Street. The time will revert to 2.15am.Visitors are always welcome.
Ivel Valley U3A
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GARDENING – AUGUST
EVEN by the standards of this country’s weather, it has certainly been a challenging ‘summer’ (term used in its loosest possible sense!). And it seems i’m not the only one to be regularly seen wearing shorts and wellington boots which i must confess is right up there is the style stakes with socks and sandals but alas, necessity is the mother of invention and keeping my feet dry this year has been an on-going mission. With monsoon like down-pours being something of a regular occurrence along with warm soil temperatures has meant trees, shrubs and lawns have all put on an incredible amount of growth. So, if you have never cut a hedge or trimmed a shrub before and have been galvanised into action, here are my top tips. Whether you are using conventional sheers or mechanical trimmers, first job is to ensure the blades are razor sharp. i see so many people struggling with tools that are not fit for purpose and in reality this bad news for the plant and for the user. A clean cut will allow the plant to recover more readily and of course looks neater when completed. it is also easier to undertake. Then, before trimming, spray the blades with a liberal coating of WD40 or something similar as this will alleviate friction and stop resins from the plant sticking. A word of warning here: don’t lay the blades on the lawn and then spray as you will end up with an oily pattern on your grass. instead, place on gravel or waste ground. Next thing to remember is, if using electric tools, and electric trimmers are in many ways an accident waiting to happen, be sure to fit a circuit breaker. Easy to do and relatively cheap to buy, these gadgets are quite literally, a life saver.
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These days, along with petrol driven trimmers, there are a wide range of rechargeable battery versions which provide a much safer, cleaner option. if cutting a conventional hedge, start by cutting the sides. With trimmers, standing side ways on, an arc from low to high normally does the trick but never over stretch. Once the sides have been sufficiently trimmed, do the top. if shaping a bush or shrub, which may seem daunting to the novice but in many ways is easier to do then a hedge, keep moving around the plant so as to spread the cutting. Whether hedge or shrub, keep looking from different angles to check that you have the desired shape and finish. Having done this, clear up the debris, unplug the machine, clean using more WD40, then pull up a chair and have a well-deserved cup of tea! Well, if its not hammering it down with rain that is! And if your spouse or partner complains at your lack of activity, just say that you are simply following orders and show them this! The answer to last month’s just for fun question is, your much loved and prized Delphinium, has finished flowering: 1. What do you do? Answer: Cut it back hard leaving a couple of leaves at the base and they should reward you with a second flowering. 2. Why are they called this? The flowers are said to resemble Dolphins and in modern Latin, from the ancient Greek, we get the word Delphinium. This month’s question is, again inspired by a client’s concern, your holly bush never produces berries, why? As usual, please contact me with any gardening tasks or queries you may have, lawndocgardens@aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855.
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AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 17
Lions still going strong
iT WAS with thanks, to the late Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and Canadian Lions, that the first Lions Club in London was founded in 1950. Whilst visiting London during the Second World war, many Canadian Servicemen were very concerned with the living conditions of children living there. To help the children, they raised money in Canada with the intention of distributing it through Lions Clubs in Britain, but there weren’t any! instead the monies were distributed by the Church of England’s Children’s Society of which the Queen Mother was patron. Lord Leconfield was sent by her Majesty to thank the Canadians, which in turn led to him visiting the Lion’s Head Quarters in Chicago. On his return, he brought a group of businessmen together, and the first Lion’s Club was formed in London, sponsored by the Windsor Lions Club of Ontario. Clubs have spread through out the UK since. The Lion’s royal Patron is now the Countess of Wessex, who is also a member of the Wokingham Club. in 2015 Lions joined with the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust with the aim of eradicating blinding thrachoma in Africa. The aim of Lions is to help those less fortunate than themselves and this is what the BiggleswadeSandy Lions do. All that is asked of members is to give a little time to attend two evening meetings a month and where possible take part in our community service work, including running stalls at local village fetes during the summer months. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Biggleswade
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Conservative Club. Why not come along and meet us and find out more. you will be very welcome. For more information call roger Wolborn on 01462 814967, he will be happy to tell you more. ––––––––––––––––
SHUTTLEWOrTH College which is located in the village of Old Warden, Bedfordshire has received a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant, it was announced recently. This exciting project, ‘The Bedfordshire Old Warden Pear: identification by DNA testing, Propagation and Bedding Out’, at the Old Warden site, and led by Paul Labous, rHS Tutor, has been given £8,400 towards identifying the original Old Warden Pear from different varieties, using DNA testing, and exploring the heritage of the pear and its associations with the village of Old Warden. The aim of this project is to research the origin of the local culinary Warden Pear, believed to have first been grown at the Cistercian abbey near to the village of Old Warden in Bedfordshire, circa 1388. ––––––––––––––––
Award celebration
THE winners and runners up from the crib competition held recently at Biggleswade Social Club, were Les Bellaris, Mal Hall, Phil Spearing and John Lincoln. A special thanks to Jim Warwick who organised event which was sponsored by Allclear Windscreens. The winners shield was in memory of Terry Legate, his wife Nikki and son Luke presented it to the winners.
Crib competition
18 — BULLETIN AUGUST 2016
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Rain holds off for Carnival
THE Biggleswade carnival parade had to delay start time due to an accident in the town centre. There was a little rain but it didn’t effect the carnival spirit. it was great turnout and a lot of time and effort was put into parade. Pride of Procession: Lawnside Lower School (1st). The following came first in various categories: Biggleswade Scouts, Weatherley Centre, Vintage Car, Shefford Majorettes, Biggleswade Cricket Club, B.A.T.S., Bu Bounce, Vintage tractors, Biggleswade Fire Brigade. The following came second in various categories yellow submarine, Edward Peake Middle School, ivel Sprinter, Kitcenettes. Third prize: The Strand. Walkers: 1st Sapphire Hair and Beauty, 2nd Lawnside, 3rd Bu Bounce A big thank you goes to Biggleswade Sea Cadets for attending the parade and providing BBQ and toilets Biggleswade carnival would also like to thank the judges, vehicle owners and drivers, Plasmor and Biggleswade railway station for the use of the car park. The grand draw winners are:
Karen Walker, Fezza and Lynda. Various events were held around the town prior to the carnival, raising money for the good causes: A ‘whimsical quiz’ was held at the Gardeners Arms, Potton road, hosted and sponsored by Chris and Jan, they also hosted a horse race night. Another Quiz Night was held at Biggleswade Social Club with Jan Hale, Pam Ekiert, Simon Ekiert and John robertson coming out on top. The event was sponsored by Beegoes, Go 2 Cars, Madras Takeaway, Jack Bygraves, Spectra Carpets, Harrisons Accountancy, Clifton Property Services, Woods Bakery, WM Services, Sapphire Hair and Beauty and KleenEco Ltd. Kevin Hart performed the duties of quiz master. A bingo night was held at Biggleswade Social Club. The winner was Suzette Falconer who won £100 jackpot prize presented by Gavin Beard. The event was sponsored by Jewers Doors. Thanks go to Jon Picton for hosting the event. Biggleswade Carnival Committee would like to thank everyone for their support of all the carnival events. All money raised will be distributed later this Biggleswade’s Carnival Court: Queen, Caitlin Nergaard; Princess, Lilli year to local organisations and char- Wood and Prince, Riley Horner. The Retreat Beauty Spa did the girls hair and makeup for carnival day. ities at a presentation evening.
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AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 19
Biggleswade History Society
Hanged for horse theft
A
This true story by the Society’s Editor, which was published in the Society’s Newsletter in November 2012, is about James Walker, a young Biggleswade man condemned and executed for horse stealing in 1827.
N original news sheet published in Bedford at the time of his execution tells us that James Walker was born in Biggleswade ‘of honest and industrious parents’ but that he had habitually kept bad company and committed a string of previous offences resulting in several spells in prison. Eventually he had become involved with a gang of horse thieves and had already been tried once for the theft of a horse in Biggleswade but, having had an alibi on that occasion, had been acquitted. On trial at Bedford Lent Assizes in 1827 for stealing a horse by night the previous September from a stable at the home of Mr Chapman, a Biggleswade solicitor, this time several witnesses gave evidence that they had seen him with the horse the next day. [Mr Chapman lived in what is now Stratton House Hotel, seen in the photograph in 1953 when it was the Council Offices.] However, what sealed Walker’s fate was that his accomplice, a deserting soldier, turned King’s evidence and saved himself by condemning Walker. Needless to say, Walker was found guilty and sentence of death was passed, which had long been the ultimate penalty for horse thieves.
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By 1827 it was common practice to commute the death sentence for such offences to transportation to the penal colony of Australia or even a prison sentence at home, but Walker was a persistent offender, crime rates were high and horse theft was on the increase, so the ultimate penalty was imposed as a deterrent to others. The news sheet reported: ‘in his particular case justice to the Country requires an awful example to be made to those following in his dreadful career of dissipation and dishonesty’. James Walker was duly hanged in front of a large crowd of spectators at the entrance to Bedford prison on 31 March 1827. it has been possible to find out more about Walker’s family from Biggleswade’s parish registers and early census returns, and about his shady associates and previous form from the Bedfordshire Quarter Sessions rolls, newspaper reports and Bedford Gaol registers. in fact, we even know what he looked like, as a description was recorded in the gaol registers each time he was detained. He was an unmarried
‘Though young in years he was old in crime’
labourer, born and resident in Biggleswade, 5 feet 4 inches tall (not unusually short in those days for a young man in his 20s), with brown hair, light hazel eyes and a fair to fresh complexion. At some stage in his youth he had sustained a large cut over the right eye and had broken the bridge of his nose. James’s father Humphrey Walker, a blacksmith, was born in Newark, Nottinghamshire around 1776 and had come to Biggleswade as a young man and married a local girl, Mary. James was their first child, born on 2 November 1800 and baptised in St Andrew’s church on 25th January 1801. By the time of his first appearance in the Bedford gaol registers at the age of twenty, James still had both parents (who would live well into old age), a fifteen year-old brother, two little brothers under the age of five and two sisters, aged ten and seven (three more sisters having died in childhood). There would be one last addition to the family – another little brother, who died in infancy two years before James came to his sad end. We know that James did not learn his delinquent behaviour from his parents: the 1827 news sheet stated plainly that they were decent, hard-working people. Later census returns show them living in Cowfairlands at the northern end of Shortmead Street. At this end of the town all walks of life were represented and there was no shortage of bad company for a young man to keep in Biggleswade, if he were so inclined, as we shall find out. James’s first recorded spell in Bedford prison was in 1821, when he was sentenced to three months for poaching. Two years later he was imprisoned again on a charge of stealing a gun and was tried at the Bedford Lent Assizes but on this occasion appears to have been acquitted. Shortly afterwards he was implicated in the theft of a sack of wheat from the barn of Mr Willis the farmer at Furzenhall Farm and was held in Bedford gaol for questioning from 9th to 21st May, together with the brothers William and John Albone and their father, Edward Albone. Edward and his four sons lived near the Walkers and were known crooks and regular inmates of Bedford prison and house of correction. William, the same age as James Walker, would be transported for life to Australia in 1833 for the attempted murder of a gamekeeper during a poaching incident that went badly wrong. However, it was Edward the father who was convicted of the
theft of the wheat and sentenced to two years with hard labour, and the three young men were released without charge. in January 1824 Walker was imprisoned for two months for assault. He had been caught rabbitting with ferrets on John race’s land at Stratton, together with another of his associates, William Bygrave from Old Warden, and three others. Bygrave, the same age as Walker, had several convictions for poaching, on one occasion with Edward Albone and sons in a large gang at Waresley. He had also been convicted of assault and, later, of theft and receiving stolen property, for which he was transferred to Newgate Prison in London for trial in 1826. However, returning to the incident at Stratton - John Wade and a fellow labourer employed by Mr race had, on their master’s instructions, been waiting beside the rabbit holes ready to catch the ferrets when they emerged. This had angered the poachers, who ‘threatened to knock our heads off if we took the ferrets’. And then Bygrave and Walker had attacked Wade, Bygrave biting him in the thigh and Walker grabbing him by the collar and striking him.
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At about the same time in 1824 a Biggleswade labourer named James Cole was arrested for questioning about the theft of cutlery from his employers, the partners Thomas Morton and Thomas Hagger, ironmongers of Biggleswade. Cole confessed that he had regularly stolen parcels of cutlery from Morton & Hagger over a period of two years and had sold them on through various channels, naming among others John and William Albone and James Walker. Early in 1825 Walker was again in Bedford prison, for one month with hard labour for violent assault, and in the summer of the same year was brought in again for questioning, this time in connection with a stolen watch, but appears to have been released without charge. He was then imprisoned yet again awaiting trial, accused of stealing a horse belonging to Mr McGrath, surgeon of Biggleswade. We know that on that occasion Walker had a sworn alibi and was acquitted. His luck ran out in March 1827 at the age of twenty-six. Many a worse offender had escaped the hangman’s noose but clearly Walker had been singled out as an example to others.
For further information contact: Jane Dale 01767 650340, editor@biggleswadehistory.org.uk www.biggleswadehistory.org.uk
20 — BULLETIN AUGUST 2016
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Matt raises his game for Angela Sharing shearing skills
When talented Video Producer/ Editor and gamer Matt Lees pledged his support to Angela’s small cell ovarian cancer research fund at The Eve Appeal, by setting up a JustGiving page on Monday 20 June 2016, leading to playing a live stream video game on Saturday 25 June, with his friend Chris Bratt, his target was £2,500. Neither The Eve Appeal, Angela’s family or indeed Matt himself knew what was in store. Following his video release on Tuesday 21 June explaining why he was supporting Angela’s Fund, as his own partner Emma Houlston was living with the side effects of chemo for this rare and aggressive disease and was by no means out of the wood, his target was smashed and raised to £5,000. On the day of the game, his supporters around the world pledged whatever they could afford – some of them students admitting they were going without to donate. Donations varied between £2 to one individual giving £1,000 soon allowing Matt to up his targets throughout the day to £7,500, £10,000 and finally, when the pair were thoroughly exhausted late that evening, to a challenging £15,000! Whilst the game is over, Matt has pledged additional activities
throughout the next couple of weeks and aims to add to the pot and reach this target, currently over £13,357 (at 89%) www.justgiving.com/ PantsMan. This additional fundraising will give an enormous boost to Angela’s Fund and undoubtedly have an impact on extending research at The Cambridge University Genetics research Centre.
SHEEP shearing is a skill which traditionally was handed down from father to son, and today at Shuttleworth College that experience is shared with other students. David Hughes of Freehand Farm, Baldock and his apprentice son Charlie represent the fourth generation of a farming family. David, who used to shear up to 200 sheep a day, now helps to pass on that expertise to young farmers at Shuttleworth. David still has 500 of his own sheep as well as growing corn. Head of Agriculture Education Anne-Marie Hamilton, pictured here with her sheep dog Bluey, says: “it is vital for us to have the help of real farmers like David so we can, in turn, support others in the farming industry by training young men and women in these traditional skills.” “All of our students who are leaving this summer are going on to
higher education at university or have secured employment, a couple of them in New Zealand. Shuttleworth is the future of farming.” Bluey or Marchup Blue to give him his pedigree name, has been coming to the farm since he was 12weeks-old. He is mascot for Agriculture Education and an icebreaker in helping students make friends. interested in careers in farming? Visit www.shuttleworth.ac.uk for details on courses and open days.
Chair hands over nearly £14k
CENTrAL Bedfordshire Council Chairman Cllr Bowater has handed over cheques worth almost £14,000 to his chosen charities from money raised through independent donations during his first year in office. Cllr Bowater presented a cheque
for £12,500 to Diabetes UK and £1,250 to Multiple Sclerosis in Bedfordshire. Cllr Bowater and Cllr Caroline Maudlin jointly raised funds and awareness for the chairman’s charities over the past 12 months.
Can you help?
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The Vineyard is sited between www.wardenvineyard.org.uk Old Warden and Cardington. “A Bedfordshire Rural Communities See website for map, times of tours & tastings. Charity project” !
JEMiMA, my 15 year-old daughter has been struggling with some complex mental health issues for a number of years and was recently discharged from a specialist hospital unit following a long admission. Last month and on her own initiative, as a motivation to help her recover, she has started her own business called Mail for Minds (mailforminds.wix.com/ffm1). She sends surprise packages for people who are also struggling – to help them recover. The packages can be bought as a gift for a loved-one or you can treat yourself! Jemima is donating more than a third of all profits to the charity Mind (www.mind.org.uk). The packages come in three sizes and are full of tactile and sensuous treats and distractions – for the body and mind. Visit the website or follow her @mailforminds on instagram.
Her approach is so very simple – and so many people benefit: l people who are struggling can receive their own package – a surprise – full of things to help them and distract them. l people with loved-ones who are struggling gain comfort knowing that they are doing something that will help their loved-one. l this is a motivation for Jemima – a focus to help her recover. l Mind’s beneficiaries benefit – from the services funded through Jemima’s donations. i am very proud of her and think her idea is brilliant (of course i am biased…) Jemima has an initial target of raising £100 for Mind and so far has raised £3. To find out more and to help her reach her target, please visit the website or follow her @mailforminds on instagram.
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AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 21
out & about Castle Comedy Biggleswade George’s Hall, Biggleswade 7.30pm September 5
Castle Comedy Biggleswade is the monthly comedy club held at George’s Hall Bar & Grill. The comedy club has been a run away success for the two years it has been open, attracting star names and a loyal audience who love seeing great comedy! A new season of comedy shows gets under way in September and runs through to Christmas, so the second half of 2016 means that Biggles will have Giggles! The new season launches with a spectacular show on September 5th when Kerry Godliman comes to Castle Comedy to preview her new show ‘Stick or Twist’ before she embarks on her UK tour! Kerry is one of the nation’s best loved comedians and actresses. She has captured the nation’s hearts playing ‘Hannah’ in ricky Gervais’s
Derek. She has also stormed both Michael Mcintyre’s Comedy roadshow and Live at the Apollo! HHHHThe Times HHHH The Independent HHHH The Sunday Times HHHH The List “A great comic who oozes personality” EVENING STANDARD Following that will be Castle Comedy’s Second Birthday show on Monday October 3rd! There will be
cake, party poppers and Nick Page! Nick is the disgraced former presenter of BBC1’s Escape to The Country turned UK comedy circuit legend! He recently appeared on Live at The Palladium on iTV1 and 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! “The very best story teller on the comedy circuit” Rhod Gilbert. Following those shows will be a November show with star of iTV1’s The Chase. Paul Sinha and a Christmas Special in December with Amateur Transplants star, Adam Kay! All the shows will feature full support from top UK comedians. The shows sell out quickly, with the Dinner and 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 you will join the growing number of fans of the club, who know that a brilliant night of comedy is guaranteed!
22 — BULLETIN AUGUST 2016
SANDy HiSTOriCAL rESEArCH GrOUP Sandy Historical research Group (SHrG) will have a stall at the
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ALZHEiMEr’S SOCiETy
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
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SANDY HORTICULTURAL SHOW at Sandye Place on the 20th August. Come along, view the SHrG ‘Historic Sandy’ display and speak to SHrG members. SANDy LEPrOSy MiSSiON
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ANNUAL COFFEE MORNING Saturday 6th August 10am to 12 noon 2 Leeds Smith Drive, the home of Colin & Diane Osborne. Cakes, Plants, Books, Bring & Buy Stall and various competitions. All welcome
BEDFORD MEMORY WALK 2016
Saturday 3rd September The walk route has changed slightly and the date is earlier this year. The route takes in the Embankment and the Priory Country Park this time and is still either 2km or 9km. All participants are asked to register online @ www.memorywalk.org.uk, before the day; there will be no registration on the day this time. SANDy HiSTOriCAL SOCiETy. Friday 30th September Stonecroft Hall, St Swithins Way, 7.30pm.
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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!
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We are a social mixed group who meet every 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 Anybody wishing to find out more please contact Alan on 07974187866 or Colin on 01767 317099
BADMINTON
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SANDY TOWN BOWLING CLUB
welcomes new members young and the not so young of all abilities. SANDy ViLLAGE HALL ENGAyNE AVENUE. Season starts May to September. We play many friendly games through the season mostly of which are mixed (male and female!) First year only membership is £10. match fees vary. For further information please visit www.sandytownbowlingclub.com or contact Glen on 01234 870488
Light Lunch on thursday 11th August from noon – 1.30p.m. Homemade soups with roll, plus slice of cake with tea or coffee only £4 - proceeds for Christian Aid. the lunch/concerts will recommence on the first thursday in September with a short service at 11. 30 followed by a lunch at 12 and a concert from 1 pm – 1.45.
TriNiTy METHODiST CHUrCH SHOrTMEAD STrEET BiGGLESWADE Sunday 7th Aug. 10.30am rev Andrew Hollins. Menu style service. Sunday 14th Aug. 9.30am rev Andrew Hollins (Communion service) 10.30am Local Worship (arranged by the Stewards) Sunday 21st Aug. 10.30am rev. Peter Bypass. (communion service.) Sunday 28th Aug. 10.30am Mr. Chris Linford.
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TRANSPORTATION OF BEDFORDSHIRE –––––––––––––––––––––––– CONVICTS 1770-1870 CANCER SUPPORT by Ken Griffin. GROUP 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 Telephone, Secretary Amanda 01767 31662 or Gina 07812796581 csgbiggleswade@gmail.com FB. Cancer Support Group Biggleswade.
TRINITY METHODIST
Visitors welcome Admission £2.00 including refreshments Members free For further details contact Chairman Nigel Aldis 01767 691333.
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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. MUMS’ AND DADS’
–––––––––––––––––––––––– Mondays, St Andrews Church (room attached to the side of the church) 1.30pm–2.30pm £2 per session A sociable friendly class for anyone wanting to exercise with or without their babies. The class offers mums and dads the opportunity to exercise with their buggy in a safe and inclusive environment. The class comprises of a warm up and cardiovascular exercise to energise and help improve fitness, body weight and light resistance work to help strengthen and tone, followed by a cool down element so you leave feeling ready to take on the world! Please contact the Physical Activity Team for more information at physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
BUGGY FIT CL ASSES
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
BEDFOrDSHirE FAMiLy HiSTOry SOCiETy Friday 9th September 7.15pm interested in Family History? then come along to the next monthly talk on
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‘ONE FAMILY’S EXPERIENCE OF THE HOLOCAUST’ held in the Drama Hall of Mark rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk
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TENNIS Over 50s Non-competitive Tennis players. Two players needed to join us for doubles tennis on Wednesday mornings in Letchworth for six months while our regular opponents take a rest. indoor court booked from 10:00 to 11:30am. For further advice/information contact 01767 691537.
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tuesdays, Saxon Pool and Leisure Centre, noon–1pm all equipment provided. £1.50 per session
THE IVEL BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT CENTRE
TABLE TENNIS
tuesdays, Saxon Pool and Leisure Centre 1.30pm-2.30pm £1.50 per session Please contact the Physical Activity Team for more information at physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
WALKING FOOTBALL
ST JOHN’S HOSPiCE
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13 August – 3.00pm -10.00pm Come and experience 20 Acts performing across 3 stages in this one day music festival. This summer event is guaranteed to be a great day out for all. To book your tickets go to www.sueryder.org/busktilldusk
BUSK TILL DUSK
14 August – 11.00am – 4.30pm Come along to St John’s Hospice country fayre and enjoy a day of best attractions including vintage cars, birds of prey, archery, craft stalls, dog show, food court and much more. www.suryder.org/countryfayre
COUNTRY FAYRE
24 September - 8.00pm walk starts at 10.00pm A 10k and 5k walk around the hospice grounds and local area. A wonderful night full of fun, and memories. Sign up now to take advantage of our early bird offer. Email stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org for more.
STARLIGHT WALK
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
CHARITY BALL
Admission £4. Concessions £3. Accompanied children under 16 free.
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HAS A LOVED ONE DiED? Are you still struggling to come to terms with this? Perhaps we can help you at our drop-in centre at: The Community Rooms, Baptist church,24 London Road, Biggleswade SG18 8EB on 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.
tennIS FOR BegInneRS
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Children – Adults Seniors experienced Players ALL WELCOME Jack: 01767 692242
www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk
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SANDY WALKS 4 HEALTH
Sandy Walks 4 Health meet every Wednesday. These are free short walks of about 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
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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
AUGUST 2016 BULLETIN — 23
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ST ANDREW’S COUNTRY FAYRE Shortmead Street, Biggleswade SG18 0AT
Saturday 17th September 2016 10.30 am - 3.30 pm FrEE ADMiSSiON
An action packed day with plenty to keep the family busy, why not come and join us at our Country Fayre? The Fayre will have the usual array of stalls, and an exhilarating and entertaining arena programme continues throughout the day. Try your hand at some of the games and buy a ticket for the Grand raffle where the top prize is £200.
A good selection of food and drink is available, freshly cooked or prepared, so please put this invitation date in your diary and join us on the day. Admission is free and all proceeds go to two charities:
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 (With stop for tea & coffee after the walk) 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 ring Janette for details 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, Beds. MK44 3SX
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For advertising enquiries email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
young Carers in Bedfordshire: young carers are children or young people under the age of 18, who care for someone who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, learning difficulties, sensory impairment, HiV/AiDS or substance misuse. There are an estimated 700,000 young carers in the United Kingdom and they may experience isolation, difficulties coping at home, problems at school, lack of social experiences and often need information and advice on the illness or disabilities of their parents or grandparents.
XLP, stands for ‘The eXcel Project’: A registered charity at the cutting edge of urban youth work in the UK. They work to create positive futures for the young people who are growing up on deprived inner city estates and who are dealing with daily issues of family breakdown, poverty, unemployment and educational failure. The charity helps the young people to learn to trust people, and they are encouraged to set and achieve positive goals, turning their lives around .
So, come long to St Andrew’s, and enjoy a day of family entertainment whilst at the same time knowing that your contributions are going to two good causes.
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The Bulletin series are independent magazines with no affiliation to any other organisation. ©2016 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
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Discover a fascinating hobby or interest, develop skills to move on at work, or start training for a whole new career – however you’re looking to spend your spare time, turn it into time well spent with part-time study at Bedford College. Our new Part-time Course Guide is out now! Download your copy at www.bedford.ac.uk/parttime to find out about all our upcoming part-time courses
August 2016 – July 2017
PART-TIME COURS ES Augst 20st16t–16gt2JtutJs–tl26sy721J
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Study now, pay later with an Advanced Learner Loan If you’re aged 19 or over on the start date of your chosen course you can apply for a loan to cover the tuition fees for some of our courses. And with nothing to pay back until you’re earning over £21,000 per year, it’s a fantastic way to make part-time study more affordable. To find out more visit www.bedford.ac.uk/loans
Visit www.bedford.ac.uk/parttime or call 01234 291000 to find out more. *A Direct Debit instalments option is available for courses over £100. Please note a £20 charge applies if you choose to pay by instalments.
info@bedford.ac.uk www.bedford.ac.uk/parttime
01234 291000