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BULLETIN
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JANUARY 2017
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Biggleswade TOWN COUNCIL
COUNCIL MEETINGS:
10 January 2017 COUNCIL FOLLOWED BY FINANCE & GENERAL PURPOSE 24 January COUNCIL INCLUDING PRECEPT 25 January – 10am BIGGLESWADE JOINT COMMITTEE MEETING CBC, Chicksands, Room PH15 14 February 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
ALLOTMENTS
If you are a Biggleswade Resident and would like to try your hand at growing your own produce, please call our office and ask for Kay, for more information.
KNOW YOUR COUNCILLORS
Cllr David Albone Cllr Jonathan Medlock MAYOR Conservative – Stratton Labour – Ivel Cllr Mrs Hazel Ramsay Cllr Michael R North Conservative – Stratton DEPUTY MAYOR Cllr Bernard J Rix Conservative – Holme Independent – Stratton Cllr Peter Biernis Labour – Ivel Cllr Mrs Madeline A Cllr Ian J Bond Russell Conservative – Ivel Conservative – Ivel Cllr Bernard V Briars Cllr Duncan A Strachan Labour – Ivel UKIP – Stratton Cllr Frank S Foster Cllr Steven Watkins UKIP – Ivel Conservative – Stratton Cllr Mark A Foster Independent – Stratton Cllr Timothy P Woodward Cllr Ms Rebecca Kerfoot Conservative – Holme Labour – Ivel
GENERAL MARKETS on the Market Square Tuesdays and Saturdays 8am-4pm We re-launched 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 except June and December)
25 January and 22 February
On the Market Square 9am – 2pm Where you can buy locally produced cakes, pies, eggs, Bedfordshire Clangers, Handmade Cushions, PVC Oil Cloth bags (Handbags, Shoppers, Mini Totes, Weekend Bags, Baby Bags, Purses, Coin Purses etc), Homewares, Handmade Cards and other paper crafts, and NOW – Large selection of Cheeses
CHARITY STALL BOOKINGS We have a variety of dates still available for 2017 A £5 deposit is required, and if you are a local Club or Organisation, this will be refunded to you on the day.
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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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 3
NO EASY SOLUTIONS IN FIGHT TO IMPROVE TOWN’S PROSPECTS
Biggleswade Counciller draws up plans to save town centre
A TOWN councillor has drawn up a plan to revitalise the centre of Biggleswade, and in particular the High Street. Biggleswade is suffering, like so many other market towns across the country, from a loss in footfall, mainly due to online shopping and lack of parking and amenities. This has led to some shops closing and the fear more will follow. Councillor Madeline Russell attended a conference on revitalising High Streets and has since drawn up a plan for Biggleswade. This includes a total of nine action points, or
steps needed to ensure the town centre is a thriving and attractive place for shoppers and visitors. Of these Councillor Russell states that the first three are the most important and most difficult. They are: n improve the physical environment in the town centre; n ensure that the Market Square has a sufficiently large, useable space for events; n build a car park with an absolute minimum of 200 spaces. Councillor Madeline Russell said: “There are no easy solutions and we
have to work with other organisations, particularly Central Beds Council. “We need to clear the clutter of the Market Square and also ensure the town centre is attractive, which means dealing with basics such as pavements being repaired and being clean and tidy. “Most important, though, is the need for more parking in the centre of Biggleswade. “We must invest in infrastructure before we can attract inward investment and businesses. “We need to evolve – not stand by as the town centre dies. “Money is always an issue but if we don’t act soon we won’t have a town centre left to revitalise.” The full plan can be seen on the Town Council’s website.
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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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 5
Rock star opens new facility at a ‘good’ Sandy Upper School
A STAR drummer visited Sandy Upper School last month to open its state-of-the-art music facility. Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers opened the music suite at Sandy Upper School on Monday, December 12, after accepting an invitation from the school. Of the music centre, Smith said: “This is a state school in a small town, it is just awesome.” The Lane & Browns Music Suite features its own recording studio and practice rooms.
It is hoped it will provide creative opportunities for students of music, dance and performing arts, as well as for those with an interest in sound production. Over the past four years, the school has gone from an “unacceptable standard” to being rated as “good” by Ofsted at its last inspection. Karen Hayward, school principal, said: “We have worked very hard over the last couple of years and our vision is to create a school worthy of an ‘outstanding’ rating. “The provision of facilities that will enable our students to excel in their chosen subjects will help us achieve that.”
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Pupils thriving in new classrooom block
A CEREMONy has taken place to mark the official opening of a new classroom block at Biggleswade Academy. Pupils have already been using the new three-classroom block as it was officially handed over to the school In November. The ceremony was a celebration of how children have already been making the most of their new surroundings and a chance for guests to look around the bright and colourful new building and surrounding play area. The project was backed and part-funded by Central Bedfordshire Council with planning permission granted in January 2016. The eye-catching new block, with a zinc-coloured barrelshaped roof, was designed by PCMS Design and built by Neville Special Projects of Luton on the site of a disused outdoor swimming pool and a mobile classroom. As well as being used by pupils from Biggleswade Academy, the classroom block is also used by children from
nearby Ivel Valley School. To this mind, it has been kitted out with extra features including a changing/shower room with floor hoist, while acoustic walls and ceiling panels help to absorb excess noise. Shelley Flynn, Principal of Biggleswade Academy, said: “Not only are we delighted with the new, state-of-the-art classroom block, but this additional space also provides a wonderful oppor-
tunity to further extend the Academy’s close working relationship with children and staff of Ivel Valley Special School.” Julie Mudd, Headteacher of Ivel Valley School, said: “We are excited by the facilities this new build provides that will enhance opportunities for our pupils and also build on our close working relationship with Biggleswade Academy.” Cllr David Bowater, Chairman
of Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “It was great to hear and see pupils already thriving in their new surroundings – the children didn’t stop smiling and were obviously enjoying life. The new building is a complete contrast to what was there and I hope that it will benefit both mainstream and pupils with special educational needs for many years to come.” Further work is planned at the school’s Kitelands Road site following the council’s Executive’s decision to grant approval to create an extra 300 lower school places in Biggleswade. Work will take place to create 150 additional places at each of Biggleswade Academy and St Andrew’s CofE VC Lower School’s Bantock Way campus, subject to planning approval being granted. If it is then work is will be scheduled to begin in time for the first new reception classes at each school – each offering 30 places – to open in September 2017 with the extra pupils joining over a phased five-year period.
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 7
Are banks ignoring the community? Is it time to vote with your feet? ANOTHER bank branch in Biggleswade has announced it will be closing down. Nat West has announced it will be closing its High Street branch this summer. The town has just lost its HSBC branch as well. Town councillor and resident of Biggleswade, Madeline Russell, said: “It is very disap-
pointing, as it is important to many people to have a branch they can visit and is another reason to come to the town. “I don’t trust banking online and I am sure a lot of other people feel the same way. “It is especially difficult for voluntary organisations and local traders as they are often dealing in cash and cheques.
“I feel it is time banks got back to the idea of customer service. “I would even be willing to pay a small charge in order to keep branches open. “I think banks have lost the plot.” HSBC said most customers now bank via the internet or on smartphones.
However, a recent Which? report said that while 56 per cent of adults across the UK used online banking last year, there are still 20 million adults who don’t – or can’t – use it. HSBC and RBS, which includes Nat West, have closed more branches than any other banks, at around 500 between them over the last 18 months.
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8 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Biggleswade woman calls for better cancer support
A BIggLESWADE woman who has had a diagnosis of ovarian cancer joined Alistair Burt MP in parliament on 23 November to call for more support for women with ovarian cancer across the UK. Amanda Cawthorn, 45, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2014 and is a campaigner for better awareness of the disease. Women with ovarian cancer are left stranded without vital support at every turn, from diagnostic tests to access to nurses, according to Target Ovarian Cancer’s state-ofthe-nation Pathfinder 2016 study, which launched at the event. Pathfinder 2016 found that: n Just one in five UK women (20 per cent) could name bloating as a major symptom of ovarian cancer, an alarmingly low rate of awareness. n Almost half of women (41 per cent) visited their gP three times or more before being referred for ovarian cancer tests, risking a delayed diagnosis. n Less than half of cancer nurses (46 per cent) think that their cancer unit has enough nurses to care for all the women being treated there.
Ovarian cancer is the deadliest of all the gynaecological cancers, with 15 per cent of women dying within two months of being diagnosed, and only a third of women surviving 10 years after their diagnosis. Now Target Ovarian Cancer is calling on government and health bodies to improve services and invest to secure the futures of
invest in ovarian cancer care and support. I have been through the system and received surgery and chemotherapy after my diagnosis. It is so important that the 25,000 women living with ovarian cancer in the UK all feel counted, and receive the best care and access to new treatments.” Alastair Burt said: “I’m really pleased to be here to ensure that all women with ovarian cancer get the care, support and new treatments that are needed, so that women’s lives are transformed, now and in future.” Pathfinder 2016 is the mostcomprehensive study of its kind into the lives of people living and working with ovarian cancer in the UK. It surveyed women in the general population, women with ovarian cancer, gPs, nurses, friends and family to provide a comprehensive assessment of how lives can be saved and improvements made. Pathfinder launches in parliament on 23 November. To find out more, visit www.targetovariancancer.org.uk/Pathfinder2016
women with ovarian cancer today and those diagnosed tomorrow. Investment is sorely needed, particularly in awareness-raising, to address the lack of cancer nurses, and to fund key research so more drugs and new therapies are available. Amanda Cawthorn said: “Today I’m in parliament to call on government and health bodies to
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SANDY TOWN COUNCIL COUNCIL M EETINGS All meetings commen
ce at Developmen t Scrutiny Com 7.30pm except which starts mittee (Plann at 6.30pm in the Council C ing) 10 Cambridge hamber, Road, Sandy SG19 1JE
Monday 9 Jan uary 2017 Developmen t Scrutiny Policy, Finan ce & Resourc es Monday 16 Ja nuary 2017 Town Counci l Monday 30 Ja nuary 2017 Developmen t Scrutiny Community Services & En vironment Monday 13 Fe bruary 2017 Policy Finance & Resources See our web site for detai
ls of other m ALL MEMBER eetings S OF THE PUBL WELCOME TO IC AND PRESS ARE ATTEND
MORIAL E M R A W Y D N SA LISTINistGoric II E D A R G S T GE Council, H n by Sandy Town
icatio Following an appl nsidering adding Sandy War co en be s ial Architectural England ha Buildings of Spec of st Li e th to l ia Memor n into account all Having now take . st re te In ic or ist their own or H ade and completed m ns tio Media and ta en es pr re State for Culture, of y ar et cr Se e th orial to the List assessment, d Sandy War Mem ad to ed cid de s Sport ha orial. as a Grade II Mem k the Memorial’s oric England mar ist H s lp he g in st Li architectural and lebrate its special significance and ce so brings specific protection so that It al ered in managing historic interest. be properly consid n ca st re te in l ia its spec its future. rbishment ing out some refu rry ca be ill w cil The Town Coun emorial in 2017. work to the War M
NCILLORS ARD TOWN COU PINNACLE W D BEESTON WAR t ot Sc Cllr M P 57 Home 01767 6814 83 Work 01767 6809 ington “The Gowans” Sedd Road Nursery, Great NorthSG19 1NZ y Seddington, Sand t.com scott729@btinterne
IVEL WARD Cllr P Blaine 01767 692619 19 Poplar Close, Sandy SG19 1HH gmail.com peterblaine.blaine@
Cllr P N Aldis 01767 691333 7 Mayfield Court, Sandy SG19 1NF .com nigel.aldis1@gmail Cllr J Ali 01767 681491 uncil C/o Sandy Town Co , ad Ro ge rid mb Ca 10 Sandy SG19 1JA
Cllr M Hill 01767 681469 on, 21 The Green, Beest SG19 1PE D WARD amaxhill@outlook.com. FALLOWFIEL n Cllr W Jackso Cllr T Cole 49 25 68 7 76 01 88 ns, Home 01767 6998 14 Westfield Garde 1 Partridge Piece, 1HF 19 SG y nd Sa nternet.com Sandy SG19 2UP .co.uk will.jackson662@bti ail teresacole@hotm tt tti Cllr M J Pe Cllr G Leach 01767 680082 rdens, 91 14 01767 68 42 Swansholme Ga cil un Co wn To y 19 1HL SG C/o Sand y nd Sa ad, media.com 10 Cambridge Ro martin.pettitt@virgin Sandy SG19 1JE uncil.gov.uk n tto Cllr S J Su admin@sandytownco 7589 22 7 76 01 an Cllr P Sharm 33 Bedford Road, 07889 599556 Sandy SG19 1EP 3 Swallow Crest, Sandy SG19 2SN
Cllr T Knagg 01767 223165 3 Jubilee Close, Sandy SG19 1JA m .co b.knagg@outlook e rn Cllr C Osbo M.B.E., J.P. 01767 682032 eds Smith Summercourt, 2 Le 1LU Drive, Sandy SG19 an Cllr D Sharm 01767 683868 ndy SG19 2TA 21 Falcon Close, Sa w ro Cllr J Spar 01767 682693 uncil C/o Sandy Town Co , ad 10 Cambridge Ro Sandy SG19 1JE
STORY IN STONE PROJECT MOVES FORWARD
As part of Central Bedfo rdshire Council’s Marke t Town Regeneration Sche me the towns of Sandy, Potton and Biggleswad e will be part of an excitin g community project wh ich will see a series of his toric themed mosaics run tho ugh the three towns, bri nging their unique histories to life. The mosaic designs for each town can be seen on the appointed artist’s websi te at http://www.buddmosai cs.co.uk. In 2017 a series of works hops will be held in each of the towns welcoming co mmunities, businesses and schools to share in the making process during the length of the project, wh ich will be from the Ne w Year into spring 2018. Follow the progress of the project at http://www.storyinston e.org.uk/
10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
10 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
New Police Community Spring in Support Officers join Force Normandy SEVEN new Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) have joined Bedfordshire Police, and were sworn in at an official ceremony on Friday 25 November. The new PCSOs will work at bases across the county, keeping a close eye on neighbourhoods and working with colleagues to find long-term solutions to problems like anti-social behaviour. This will also be getting involved with long-term and proactive crime prevention initiatives, like property marking and fitting number plates with tamper-proof screws. T/Deputy Chief Constable Mike Colbourne said: “Police Community Support
Officers provide visible reassurance to the communities of Bedfordshire. They work hard to tackle local issues that matter to our communities as well as building relationships with partner agencies and providing crime prevention advice to residents. They fulfil a really important role, and I am pleased to welcome our new recruits to the force.” Bedfordshire Police continues to recruit PCSOs, and recruitment will open in January. For more information, visit the recruitment section of www.bedford shire.pnn.police.uk.
Did you know you can have your leaflet delivered with the Bulletin?
Reach over 12,000 homes in Sandy and Biggleswade with your leaflet. We also provide a full design and print service. Call Martin on 07894 935952 for more details
WHy not join Sandy Twinning Association for a long weekend in Normandy over the Spring Bank Holiday next year? We will be travelling to Malaunay, just outside Rouen, on Friday April 28th and returning home on Monday May 1st which is a Bank Holiday both here and in France. We hope to travel by coach and you can be assured of wonderful hospitality and a thoroughly enjoyable trip.
We will arrive to a civic reception on the Friday evening. The Saturday will be a full day visit to a place of interest in the region, the Sunday will be spent with host families, and the return journey on the Monday will of course include a stop at a French hypermarket to stock up with wine and other goodies. The cost of the entire trip will be between £80-£100 per person, depending on numbers. This is incredibly good value for a fourday action-packed trip to France. Sandy and Malaunay have been linked for almost 35 year and, whatever Brexit brings in the future, we are determined the link will continue as it has so many social and cultural benefits as well as aesthetic and linguistic opportunities for many. If you would like to join us on this visit or at least find out more about the trip please contact either Martin Pettit on 01767 680082 or Max Hill on 681469. you will not be disappointed!
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 11
12 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
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Monthly update from the Police and Crime Commissioner
In Focus with
by Kathryn Holloway
by Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP
BEDS TO GET MORE PCs
HAVINg looked very locally last month, and celebrated the joys of an MPs year in the constituency, far away from what ails the world, I am afraid we must come back to earth this month to a fascinating year nationally and internationally. There will be ultimately no escape from some of its events, so we might as well be prepared. If you were tired of the Referendum campaign, you will get no respite from Brexit. I sit on the Select Committee of the Commons, elected by colleagues to oversee the Department for Exiting the European Union, and scrutinise its policies. We are currently working on our first report, what the UK should be prioritising in its objectives for Brexit, and have met a number of times to interview representative bodies of business, trade unions and different sectors of the economy affected by the decision of June 23rd. We will visit a number of places in the UK and beyond before presenting a report to Parliament, and I will keep you informed from time to time of progress, both here and on my Facebook/website. We are looking to assist Parliament in finding the best proposals for the nation as a whole in leaving the EU, however some of us voted. The new administration of President Trump will begin to shape the US. We have to see if his campaign rhetoric, unpleasant and offensive as it was to many outside the US, was simply rhetoric or is followed through. How the US fares really matters to the world, and impacts on our finances and security. I cannot claim to have warmed to the man, but I wish him and his country well, for all our sakes. The French and germans go to the polls, so that will stop Brexit for a bit. There can be no agreement of our negotiations without them and there will be reluctance to conclude anything before governments are formed. It’s not all about us, we have to remember. And there will be more, but I think fewer predictions from the so called smart people who got so much wrong in 2016. I say no more!
FINALLy Bedfordshire Police received the first report from the police watchdog, Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, to give it a “good” rating since I came into the role as Police and Crime Commissioner on May 5. This report was a vital one as it related to “legitimacy” – in other words the way the Force treats the public and its officers and staff. I was delighted that the Inspection team specifically mentioned the work I have been doing, alongside the Force, to announce the brand new Community Policing Hubs of officers dedicated to more visible policing in towns across the county. These have been launched by me alongside the Deputy Chief Constable and other key members of the Bedfordshire Policing team in each area to also explain the less visible detective work going on to protect the public locally, and also involve the manager of the Force Control Room detailing the challenges for call-handlers who have to assess the threat and risk to each caller, when balanced against all the other demands coming in for an immediate 999 response. Opportunities are also available at each meeting to hear about the help which the public can offer their communities through becoming a Special Constable or joining the invaluable “Watch” schemes, such as Streetwatch and Speedwatch, as a volunteer. Hubs have been launched in the county including Bigglewade. Community Policing is the destination for 96 more police constables recruited during my administration as PCC. In addition, the Police and Community Support Officers, who have proved so popular in building relationships with Parish Councils, are also being increased. The Force now has 45 and 10 come into operation on January 19 2017. Two more sets of recruits – 16 in each intake – will be trained in May and July. HMIC also recognised the valuable work being done by Bedfordshire Police to make sure that it looks and sounds like the population it serves with some 36% diversity in a recent intake of trainee PCs. I promised the public better policing of their communities and to be a Commissioner for All and I sincerely hope residents can see that I am doing everything possible to deliver on that promise.
Alistair IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT US
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View from
Bishop Richard by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford
LET US PRAY
EARLIER in December I dedicated the new Prayer garden at Holywell School in Cranfield; one of the Church of England schools in the Diocese. Laid out around paths in the shape of the school badge (crossed keys and a sword), when the planting develops, it will provide an inspiring space for pupils and staff. One of the possible developments for the garden is the display of a ‘prayer for the month’. Each month a much loved prayer would be chosen to offer a focus. It got me thinking. Which prayers would I choose? An obvious contender must be the prayer that Jesus taught us – the Lord’s Prayer; that supreme guide to both our worship of god and our daily living. It is a prayer that many rightly use daily to anchor their lives. I might also choose the prayer of St Francis with its invitation to be agents of love: Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; – A reminder of the call to be peacemakers in our violent world. For simple common sense and sheer practicality, I like the socalled Serenity Prayer of Reinhold Niebuhr: god, give us grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed, Courage to change the things which should be changed, and the Wisdom to distinguish the one from the other. And for openness to the call of god there is the prayer of Charles de Foucauld with its demanding sentiments: Father, I abandon myself into your hands; do with me what you will. Whatever you may do, I thank you: I am ready for all, I accept all. Words that were prayed daily by a colleague dying of cancer expressing his commitment to walk with Jesus whatever might come. Above all I would go for the Prayer of St Richard which has been a favourite ever since I discovered the excitement of sharing the name of a Saint. Thanks be to thee, my Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits thou hast given me, for all the pains and insults thou hast borne for me. O most merciful redeemer, friend and brother, may I know thee more clearly, love thee more dearly, and follow thee more nearly, day by day. – Amen.
JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 13
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Court takes action on cashpoint gang
A COURT has ordered the confiscation of more than £28,000 from a gang member who was jailed last year for his part in a series of cash point raids across the Eastern region. The order was made against Joseph Upton, 45, who was jailed for five years in May last year after admitting conspiracy to burgle and conspiracy to steal motor vehicles in 2012. He and three other gang members jailed for the same offences also had a series of strict conditions placed on them during the Serious
Crime Prevention Order Hearing at Cambridge Crown Court on Friday (2 December). The orders will start when they are released and mean they will have to keep police updated on things like the phones and cars they use.
John Leonard Smith, 41 and Albert Smith, 40, who are each serving a sentence of four years and nine months and Alfred Stanley Smith, 38, who is serving four years, will all be subject to the order.
LOCKED AWAY
The case was brought by the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU) which investigated the men’s nine month smash and grab and burglary spree. After the case Detective Inspector geoff Knight said: “This hearing sends out a message that we will utilise all available legislation to ensure offenders feel the full weight of the law and that we will hamper all efforts to commit further crime.” No order was made against a fifth man, whose part in the offences was less significant.
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Good news at lawn bowls AGM
AT THE recent AgM of Sandy Town Bowling Club the Ladies’ Captain glenys Taverner, reported that 2016 had been a ‘busy and successful’ one. Ladies’ matches had been played against local teams, including a new fixture, and some ladies had taken part in County competitions. In May the club had also hosted, very successfully, the County Ladies Two Wood Singles competition. Men’s captain Mick Reynolds said that it had been easier to manage friendly matches in 2016 because club membership had increased over the past two years so there were more players to select from. The club has continued to enter teams and individuals in Men’s County and East Beds League competitions. Mick also thanked club greenkeeper Ray Swinnerton and his team for providing ‘a top class surface to bowl on.’ It was reported that funding has been secured to allow the club to offer coaching qualification courses to several of its members via the England Coaching Bowls Association (ECBA) so that they could help and support inexperienced and new members when the season starts in the spring, 2017. Derek Reader has been appointed as the club’s coaching co-ordinator. The meeting elected club officers for 2017, including President Bim Chapman: Chairman Jeff Weeks: Ladies’ Captain glenys Taverner: Treasurer: Mick Reynolds: Website Manager gina Isaac: Secretary Michael groom (01767 227523). –––––––––––––––
More than 110,000 miles to see Santa
CHILDREN at 30 schools have clocked up more than 110,000 miles scooting, cycling and striding to Santa. They were taking part in this year’s Santa Challenge, which saw pupils aiming to cover the 2,000 miles needed to make the virtual trip between Central Bedfordshire and Lapland using only their own power. They easily surpassed that target with pupils from schools across Central Bedfordshire and Bedford Borough travelling the equivalent of four and a half times around the world. The challenge was organised by sustainable transport charity Sustrans. The top performing school was St Andrew’s Lower, in Biggleswade, which won a scooter pod for covering a collective 11,000 miles.
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 15
Dexter meets police commissioner
PC Mark West is a happy man. “I’m in the job I always wanted to do and I’ve got the best partner in Dexter”, says the Constable who works in the Dogs’ Unit for Bedfordshire Police, which attends incidents across the Triforce area of Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire tracking criminals or missing people. Mark prepared for his role by acting as a “puppy walker” before joining the Unit fulltime which meant raising young police dogs from pups until they join the training programme. “It means helping to socialise them and get them used to all sorts of environments,” said Mark. “We can hatch release our dogs who jump from the back and out over our laps for a pursuit and it’s no good if they stop still as they don’t recognise a shiny floor or an escalator.” Dogs are gradually introduced to demanding situations even when trained, “If it was a public order problem with a noisy crowd I’d try to take Dexter in with another, more experienced dog because it’s incredible how they teach one another and bring them on,” said Mark. While working for the police, the dogs have their own Dog Welfare Volunteers to check their living and transport conditions, such as air conditioning. They work until around 7-9 years old. “The larger dogs tend to retire early but Dexter is only small so he’ll go on for a long time. He has ‘small man syndrome’ though and
gets angry really quickly which can be useful in this role.” The dog handlers keep their dogs at home but house them in outdoor kennels and are not allowed to let them mix with children. “I know Dexter would never hurt my kids but he comes in when they’ve gone to bed and spends some time with me and my wife,” he said. When german Shepherds like Dexter retire they are
offered first to their handlers and, if they cannot be housed this way, owners are sought who are used to working dogs who live outside, such as gamekeepers and farmers and the Force maintains a waiting-list of suitable future owners. “We’ll never let him go though,” says Mark “my wife would kill me, even though I see more of him than her!”
16 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Who should bear the brunt of increased future development
Comments about the article in was why the bypass was conthe Bulletin December 2016 structed to reduce the volume of traffic through the town. Never was this better shown than when by John Edmond the High Street was closed for POPULATION some six months earlier this year We first came to live in when it was a delight to be able to Biggleswade in October 1984 and walk down into the town centre have lived here ever since and in without the fear of speeding cars. It appears that many homes the same house. So I can only compare and contrast my observa- must have more than one car and indeed it is easy to find homes tions since then. I was told by the Estate Agent where there are two or more vehifrom whom we bought our house cles. This causes problems with that the population was just a little overnight parking – often with 1 or over 10,000 at the 1981 census more vehicles on or partly on the and as the count at the last census pavement in many of the streets. in 2011 was16550 that is a 65% Parking is not helped with vehirise in the 30 years since the 1981 cles parked at corners as they are on Holme Court Avenue. Nor does census. If one includes an estimate of the fact that many of houses do not 2440 new houses at Kings Reach have a space to park their vehicles and Potton Road since early 2016 eg in flats or with a front garden and conservatively assuming an that has too little space in which to average of 3 people per house that park. This is not helped in some of equals a population of increase of the new developments where it is to (3 x 2440) which when added to so obvious that construction comthe 2011 census of 16550 gives a panies pack in as many houses as population of 23870 equivalent to they can get away with and ignore at least a 44% rise in the five years the consequences of inadequate parking space. since the 2011census. London Road is a 30 mph road This is also equivalent to a 138% rise in the population of but there is no method of monitorBiggleswade in the 35 years since ing this especially at peak time in morning and evening with many the census of 1981. yet they are still building hous- vehicles speeding well over the es and worse still they are plan- speed limit for this road. The schools become a parking ning to build more to meet some “pie in the sky” government fig- issue as well because many pupils ure to provide more affordable are brought to and picked up in the morning and evening. Frequently houses. Though Biggleswade is an old these cars are parked over drivetown and people have lived hear ways and prevent busses in particfor many centuries the figures ular from getting through. Parking at the station is also an given above indicate that its population has more than doubled in issue and is probably worse than the last 30 years and shows that the the issue with schools as the vehigreater part of that growth hassix- cles are generally parked there taken place in the last 6 years. In from 7.00am 7.00pm or more. my view the town has not “grown” Train parking seems to include with some of the changes that have areas on the centre of the town side of London Road and makes much happened in the last 30 years. These, in my view, include the of this road a “1” lane road for most of the day as well as side following comments. streets off Dells Lane. TRAFFIC All of these observations need The centre of Biggleswade (the to be addressed before any thought Old Town) was never built for the is given to any new house building, density of traffic that now comes A1 RETAIL PARK through the High Street via The A1 Retail Park (A1RP) is a London Road. Indeed London Road used to be the A1 and that good example of what happens
when inadequate thought goes into the consequences of what and how it will be run as far as parking and access to it is concerned. It has a very complex road system with three roundabouts and it is well known that accidents happen when people and cars come together. The lighting system is also poor after darkness. The speed at A1RP is 40 mph when it should be 20 mph and indeed it would be a wise plan to have this as the main speed limit in the whole of the town with Schools, areas where Elderly People live and Shops reduced to 20 mph 24/7. The parking facilities are too tight and typical as far as space per car is concerned (as well documented in the press). The size of the total area for parking is concerned it is at least 50% too small as shown by the fact that it is very difficult to easily get a place to park after 10.00 am. However it should be noted that the actual shops at the A1RP itself haves been well thought out. Before the A1RP was re-built the AI north from Baldock was a 2 lane road. Planners decided that the entrance into the A1RP needed a 3 lane road for about 200 yards before turning into Biggleswade. There are two issues with this new lane. Firstly many drivers do not appreciate that the principal lane into Biggleswade is the CENTRE LANE and NOT the third (out side lane) and many of those who use the third lane find that they have to cut into the lane to be used by the centre lane traffic causing the potential of a crash or at worst blowing of horns and sudden breaking of drivers from the centre lane. Again poor lighting does not help. Secondly the angle of the round-about is too acute for many drivers who are driving in excess of 30 miles per hour. They are also to trying avoid drivers on the outside lane many of whom have started to cut across into the centre lane and who are also wondering if traffic from the
A1 ROUNDABOUT
north – especially large lorries – will manage to stop in time before they cross the roundabout. In short the A1 Roundabout needs traffic lights especially at peak times. 1. Many of the issues that I now highlight about the population / housing plan for the last 30 years seem either to have been ignored or not addressed but have now been brought to light. 2. I believe that these comments especially about the traffic issues in the whole of Biggleswade need to be addressed and resolved before ANy further building of houses especially on the scale of what has happened in the last year or so.
SUMMARY
––––––––––––––––
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 A1 East of England Strategic Study which calls for major improvements to the route of the A1 through our area.
We have finalised a ‘wish list’ for minor improvements to the A1 in our immediate area in the meantime and this will be submitted to Highways England in the New year. We will next be asking residents for their ‘wish list’ for the local roads which will include the need for some action to be taken to reduce the amount of traffic, especially large HgV’s not delivering in Sandy, using the High Street. Again, 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.
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 17
Angela’s Fund ‘moves up the ladder’ with Estate Agent’s donation ON Wednesday 14 December 2016, Branch Director of Country Properties, Kim Foster, made a cheque presentation of £375.00 to Mark Butcher, saying: “We are delighted to make a donation to Angela’s Small Cell Ovarian Cancer Research Fund at The Eve Appeal, to support the pioneering research started this year into small cell ovarian cancer.” Whilst the Company are well known for their charitable support for MacMillan’s Cancer Care, they have additionally been supportive of Angela’s Fund, both personally and professionally and ongoing have a 5p collection pot in-house. Linda Butcher says: “The £375 will undoubtedly take us somewhat closer to our next milestone of £80,000 which we hope to achieve next year. It’s amazing the support we get from family, friends, local businesses
and beyond, without whom the research which Angela started fundraising for, upon diagnosis in September 2012, to give hope to others, would still be a consideration for the future.
FIVE YEAR PROGRAMME We still find it hard to believe that it’s actually happening and are committed to ongoing fundraising to support the research both at the UCLH and Cambridge University Genetic Research Centre, for a full five year programme.” If you know of anyone with small cell ovarian cancer, or have lost a female relative to this rare and aggressive disease, please visit the Patient Research Registry www.sc-ovca.org. If you’d like to support by fundraising, please contact Linda on 07730 319209 or Branch Director of Country Properties, Kim Foster, at the cheque message Mark James Butcher presentation to Mark Butcher for Angela’s small cell ovarian cancer research fund at The Eve Appeal. on facebook.
18 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 19
Everton Biggleswade Community Agent news yOUR Biggleswade Community Wednesdays and is looking for Lower School Agent gill provides a free, confisomeone to help and take over dential service and is here to help running it. Contact gill if you are to consult on residents with any issues that you interested. might have – large or small. I work Free items I have available for part-time for Bedfordshire Rural older people in need, on a first primary Communities Charity, largely come first served basis: funded by Biggleswade Town Appliance Timers – To set appliproposal Council. If you want to meet me in ances such as lamps and radios
EVERTON Lower School has been granted approval to launch a formal consultation on changing its age range to become a primary school. The school, in Potton Road, is hoping to add two extra year groups (years 5 and 6), meaning that children can stay there until they are 11. An initial consultation which saw parents, residents and other stakeholders asked for their views on the proposed change of age range closed last month.
That saw more than 90 per cent in favour of the change, with feedback informing the more detailed consultation which will run from 4 January 2017 to 1 February 2017. A proposal to carry out the formal consultation process was approved by Central Bedfordshire Council’s Executive in December. A final decision will be made on 4 April and if the change of age range is agreed then it will come into force in September 2017 when the school welcomes year 5 pupils.
Councillor Steven Dixon, Executive Member for Education and Skills, said: “The feedback from the initial consultation process was broadly positive with favourable responses from the parish council, parents and carers, residents and staff. “There were a number of comments raised about things like transport and mixed-class arrangements which will be addressed in the formal consultation. “That is why we carry out consultations, because the views of interested parties are very important in helping to shape things which will ultimately affect them and their children.” An electronic version of the consultation and more information will be available on Everton Lower’s website from 4 January, with people also able to pick up paper copies at the school.
BROADLY POSITIVE
person to discuss an issue, I will be at the Listening Café, 10am11.30 on Friday 20th January at Biggleswade Baptist Church, 24 London Road, SG18 8EB, where there will be free tea/coffee and cake. Help for pensioners on low incomes – If you are receiving a low income you may be eligible for Pension Credit. Do you feel safe at home? – Contact me if you would like a free home safety check by the Bobby Van, which is a service provided by Bedfordshire Police Partnership Trust. Help completing benefits forms – I can help you complete forms such as Blue Badge, Attendance Allowance, Pension Credit, Council Tax Reduction and Housing Benefit forms or advise you who to contact to help with
Personal Independence Payment forms. Do you feel socially isolated? – Contact me for information on local groups, clubs, organisations and lunch clubs. Would you like to volunteer for an organisation? – If you have a few hours a week or month to spare there are lots of organisations looking for volunteers. The Labour Hall Lunch Club meets on
GARDENING – JANUARY
I HOPE you all had a lovely Christmas and if you have entered this year’s gardening Quiz, many thanks. If you haven’t yet got round to it, there is still a little time, and answers must be received by 15th January), and you’ll find the questions in the December issue of the Magazine. If you have mislaid the questions, please email me or send an S.A.E to the addresses below and I will send them to you. Unusually for this article, I wonder if any of you vegetable gardeners have any ideas that might help a regular reader combat slugs that are actually appearing in his potatoes? Despite heathy foliage, the gardener in question when harvesting his spuds noticed that in the biggest there was an entry wound and that when cut into revealed a slug. Not very pleasant and not something I have ever heard of. Does anyone ‘out there’ have any ideas to prevent this from happening? Please contact me using the details below. Towards the end of last year, I had a number of communications from readers asking me what they can do about their mossy lawn? There are some popular misconceptions about moss the main one being that it appears by cutting a lawn too short or too late in the year. This is not the case. In sports turf, football, rugby, golf etc. the grass is maintained throughout the year and regularly cut and you don’t see any moss at the country’s best sports’ venues do you? Moss on a lawn (or even on a tarmac drive) reveals a lack of air flow and a failure for the soil to drain freely. So, those established gardens that feature a bowl like shape of trees and shrubs often have problems with moss. Moreover, if the soil is heavy that is to say, has a high clay content, surface water
to come on and off when you are out or away to create the impression that someone is home. Plug in Night Lights – Recommended for being safer when getting up in the night. Cold Alarms – Alerts you if the temperature drops below 18 degrees in the room in which the alarm is installed. Timers – Can be set for up to an hour to remind you if you are cooking something when it is ready. For more information about anything above, please call gill your Biggleswade Community Agent on 07534 484750 or email gillr@bedsrcc.org.uk. Usually working: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9am -2pm (although this can vary). gill is DBS Checked.
will not filter through but stays in the top of the lawn and this is what moss thrives in. Relieving the compaction of a lawn is always a good idea and this can be done with slitting or spiking machines though the very best thing to use is a hollow tine machine as this actually removes a core of soil. Into the holes, can be brushed sand and although a piebald lawn is not hugely attractive, in time the marks disappear as will surface water as a result of your hard work. The best time to do such renovations are when the lawn is dry and the grass is actively growing so for many domestic situations, spring is a good time. Moss killing granules can also be applied then but if the lawn is compacted and in shade as above, it will not provide a long term solution. Regular readers to this will know that I love those old phrases about the weather or the natural world and I heard a good one the other day apposite for this time of the year: ‘as the days get longer, the cold gets stronger’. As the shortest day has now passed, we shall see how accurate those words of wisdom are this year! If you have any other phrases that reveal a truth if not the truth, please send them to me. Answers to the Christmas Quiz will be published in February’s Magazine but this month’s just for fun question is: Sphagnum moss has a medical use, what is it? As usual, please email or ‘phone me with any gardening queries you may have on LawnDocgardens@aol.com or 01767 627 581. Postal address: 6 Sand Lane, Northill, Bedfordshire Sg18 9AD. Best wishes to you all for a the happiest new year.
20 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
389 PEOPLE of all ages including local scouts air cadets attended a recent event, where everyone enthusiastically tried to help break the current Official guinness World Record for ‘most people constructing aircraft models’ at one time. The event took place at Shuttleworth in November and it was a real family event. Alec Smith, of IPMS Brampton Scale
Model Club said that the ‘challenge represented a chance to promote both the hobby of Scale Model making, commemorate and acknowledge the events from a century ago and help introduce and showcase the ‘living museum’ of Shuttleworth’. The Collection, known for its own unique vintage flying aircraft, teamed up with event
organisers IPMS Brampton Scale Model Club who provided almost 400 1/72 scale Albatros D.V plastic models free of charge courtesy of Airfix, the oldest UK manufacturer of scale plastic model kits. They are waiting hopefully to see if guinness World Records agree that they broke the record, and expect the results to be announced in the new year.
Removals company moves into new premises
A FAMILy run removals firm found itself in the rather curious situation of having to move themselves recently, when they expanded into new premises in rural Bedfordshire to accommodate adding storage services to the business. Barford + Co, the St Neots based Chartered Surveying and Planning practice, announces that D&M Removals, which provides residential and commercial removals services, has recently leased two industrial units on the Tythe Farm development in Colmworth to support its growth plans. Based in Bedford for four and a half years, D&M Removals was previously contracting out the provision of storage to a third party. Identifying an opportunity to bring this service in-house thereby
offering an enhanced service to customers, the company needed larger, more suitable premises to support this next phase in its development. David Fitchew is Director at
D&M Removals, he said: “We’re a family run business and have seen the business grow rapidly since we established just over four years ago. We’ve seen a high demand for storage services from
our removals customers and decided that we wanted to offer this service ourselves. “As a result we’ve invested in state of the art warehouse and storage facilities at Tythe Farm, with CCTV and pincoded security systems, which are highly secure and sophisticated offering total peace of mind for customers.” Howard Westgate is Associate Director at Barford + Co, and worked closely with D&M Removals on its acquisition of the units at Tythe Farm, he said: “D&M Removals were particularly attracted to Tythe Farm thanks to the rural location and community feel to the development. “We always work hard to listen to clients’ requirements for their next business move and it was a pleasure to help D&M Removals with their very own move.”
Photography courtesy of Darren Harbar Photography
World record attempt
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 21
George Hay to hold auto-enrolment sessions yOU may recall our article, in the October issue of The Biggleswade Bulletin, on the importance of employers fulfilling their legal obligations in respect of Auto-enrolment. With the roll-out as yet incomplete, 2017 will see thousands more small and micro employers preparing ahead of their staging dates. This means that many employers will still be seeking advice, support, and direction during the coming months. Since the roll-out first began, george Hay have been assisting their clients with meeting the requirements of auto-enrolment and satisfying their duties as an employer. On November 3rd they held a drop-in session at their Biggleswade office, for people to go along and voice their questions and concerns in return for advice and guidance. The response to the session was positive with a number of familiar faces, and some new, attending. As a result, the Payroll department have decided to hold a further three drop-in sessions in February. The date, location and time of the sessions are as follows: Biggleswade office 2nd February, 8am – 12.30pm Letchworth office 9th February, 9am – 1pm Huntingdon office 10th February, 9am – 1pm
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22 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
1. The Biggleswade History Society wishes all Bulletin readers a happy New year! The photograph shows some of our members in festive spirits at our Christmas party held on 14 December. 2. It is especially hard, during the festive season when friends and families gather together to celebrate and enjoy one another’s company, to suffer the loss of someone very dear to us. Having just wished you all happiness for this New year we are feeling sadness at the loss of our Society’s Vice President, Eric Lund, who passed away on 24 November after a long illness, bravely borne. A lovely service in celebration of Eric’s life was held at Trinity Methodist Church on 12 December, officiated by Rev Andrew Hollins. To the majority of our members, the community at Trinity Methodist Church and many readers in the community at large Eric needed no introduction. Apart from a spell of National Service after the war he had lived in Biggleswade from the age of two and his knowledge of all things local and his pleasure in sharing that knowledge and his willingness to get actively involved in community life have enriched not only our Society over the long years of his membership but have also been of great benefit to the many local organisations in which he played an active part. In his quiet, thoughtful and unassuming way, he has been a pillar of our Biggleswade community for many, many years and will be sorely missed. There have been numerous changes in Biggleswade during Eric’s 89 years but, fortunately for us, in 2013 he produced a beautifully written chronicle of his early life in the town, covering the years 1930 to 1946. He called it ‘Memories of a Biggleswade Boy’ and it was published in fourteen instalments in the Society’s newsletter for members in 2014 and 2015. As a tribute to Eric the Society is now making the whole series publicly available on its website. (The web address is at the foot of this page.) For many senior Bulletin readers who grew up in this area it will be quite a trip down ‘Memory Lane’ to a bygone Biggleswade of their youth, while for younger readers and those relatively new to these parts it will offer an interesting insight into life in our town in the 1930s and 40s. Take the time to have a look. 3. Our first meeting of 2017 is on the second Monday of the month - 9 January. That is a week later than usual to allow recovery time after the festive season. Our friend from Potton History Society, Peter Ibbett, returns to tell us about ‘Potton’s Infamous Inhabitants of the Past’. Visitors are welcome to join us. See the Meetings section for information. 4. The 73-minute professionally produced 2009 ‘Three Market Towns’ DVD featuring Biggleswade, Potton and Sandy past and present and presented by Pam Rhodes is still available to readers at £15, payable on ordering. It can be delivered free of charge to Biggleswade addresses or mailed for an extra £1.00 per copy to cover postage and packing. Order by posting a cheque for the appropriate amount (made out to Biggleswade History Society) to: The
ANNOUNCEMENTS
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
Treasurer, Biggleswade History Society, 55 Brunel Drive, Biggleswade, Sg18 8BT, with a note stating the number of copies required, how they are to be delivered, your name, full postal address and a contact telephone number or email address. Email enquiries to: treasurer@biggleswadehistory.org.uk or telephone 01767 316669. 5. Want to know more about local history in Bedfordshire? Visit the website of the Bedfordshire Local History Association: www.bedfordshire-lha.org.uk for a calendar of other groups’ and societies’ meetings and local history events and where you will also find the latest quarterly ‘History in Bedfordshire’ newsletter. 6. The Society’s next slot on the BigglesFM Thursday Breakfast Show will be 8.30 - 9.00 on 26 January. Tune in to 104.8 or go to www.bigglesfm.com and click on Listen Live to hear the latest news from our Editor 1. The Story in Stone community project is underway! A good cross section from the three towns of Sandy, Potton and Biggleswade dropped in at Robert Peel Lower School in Sandy on 30 November to meet the artist, Oliver Budd, and see his designs for the mosaic panels on which work is soon to begin. The attractive designs cleverly encapsulate key features of the history and character of the towns. The themes for Biggleswade centre on the three Rs – River, Road & Railway – which were essential to our town’s development. They include depictions of Biggleswade’s Saxon origins on the river crossing (Biccel’s Waed, meaning Biccel’s ford), later becoming a small market town; the great North Road with highwaymen, coaches and inns, including the Crown where the 1785 great Fire began and changed the face of the town, and, later, Dan Albone’s Ivel cycles racing to and fro; the Ivel river and canal trade which brought merchants here from King’s Lynn; the great Northern Railway which boosted market gardening and ushered in the era of the Brussels sprout; Dan Albone’s tractor heralding a 20th century revolution in agriculture; the growth of sports clubs, leisure and associated industries, like Berkeley caravans and sports cars made here in the 1950s & 60s; and the world of advertising, film and TV which spawned Lady Penelope’s pink Rolls Royce! See the designs and follow the progress of this exciting project for our community at www.storyinstone.org.uk 2. The March Hare in February! Ken Page’s November talk at the March Hare was so well received that he has agreed to return to Dunton to give another talk on 28 February. Full details will be given in next month’s Bulletin. 3. Our local history displays in the town library continue this year. Watch this space for details of the dates and themes.
EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
Accessions during December and January will be reported in the February issue of the Bulletin..
FROM THE ARCHIVES
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Biggleswade The Society has a wide range of publications relating to the history of Biggleswade and its people and these are now permanently available to all members of the public at the same low prices offered to our members. Most of our publications may be purchased for just £1.00 each, and the 434-page A4 size Dan Albone hardback is a bargain at the reduced price of £15.00 (plus £5.00 postage & packing if it is to be mailed) and is also on sale at the same low price at Pedals cycle shop in Shortmead Street. Visit the Society’s website for a price list and descriptions of the books. Telephone enquiries and orders to: Paul Artiss (01767 666187). Free delivery to local addresses may be possible but ask Paul about postal charges if books are to be mailed.
PUBLICATIONS
As this New year begins our total membership is 160.
MEMBERSHIP
The Society meets in the chapel at Trinity Methodist Church on the first Monday of the month, unless notified. Doors normally open at 7.30 for an 8.00pm start. Meetings are free to members; visitors are welcome at indoor meetings for £3.00 per meeting. In the summer months indoor meetings give way to a programme of evening walks and visits.
MEETINGS
14 Dec: 41 members attended our Christmas Party at the Conservative Club. Two members entertained us with amusing poems and eight teams competed in a 4-round quiz which was won by the Sharpest Tools in the Box, two points ahead of nearest rivals, Dim but Dead good Looking. Some fun was had with a caption competition with a highwayman theme and everybody took home a small gift for Christmas, having thoroughly enjoyed the evening.
LAST MEETING
09 Jan: ‘Potton’s Infamous Inhabitants of the Past’ – a talk by Peter Ibbett 06 Feb: ‘Bedfordshire Convicts Transported 1770-1870’ – a talk by Ken griffin (‘Convict Ken’) 06 Mar: ‘Three Market Towns: B’wade, Sandy & Potton’ – out-takes from the 2009 film presented by Mike Fowler 03 Apr: Members only Annual general Meeting 08 May: ‘Amy Johnson’ – a talk by Roy Smart about the renowned aviator 05 Jun: Members only visit to the village of Dunton hosted by Janice and John of the March Hare 03 Jul: Members only guided walk in Tempsford Church End led by local historian Steve Cooney The programme for the remainder of 2017 will be published at a later date.
PROGRAMME
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History Society ERIC JAMES LUND (1927 – 2016) In 2011, in response to a request by the Society’s editor, Eric Lund wrote an autobiographical piece for our members. It was published in the October 2011 issue of the Biggleswade History Society Newsletter as a feature article entitled, ‘Meet the Vice President’. As a fitting tribute to Eric it is reprinted here as our feature article this month.
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ORN in Runcorn in Cheshire in September 1927, my arrival in Biggleswade was when my parents moved here in 1930 for my father to become a teacher at Biggleswade Senior Boys School in Rose Lane, a position that he held for the next 20 years. For a short period we lived in London Road, only a few houses to the south of the Workhouse, with open fields, (now occupied by Holmemead School), at the back of our house. When we moved to Banks Road in the early 1930s it was still an unmade road and the houses on the inner side of the triangle formed by Drove Road, Banks Road and Potton Road were just being built. A couple of years or so before the outbreak of World War 2 my parents moved yet again, this time to 31 Fairfield Road, where they lived for the rest of their lives and where I lived until I got married in 1950. My education, as was the case with most of my contemporaries, began at the Infants School in Rose Lane, with Miss West as Headmistress, continued at the Junior Boys School in Church Street under Headmaster Frank Saunders, then finally back to Rose Lane to the Senior Boys School, which until a few years earlier had been called Biggleswade Council School for Boys.
This was before the 1944 Butler Education Act, so that other than those who went to grammar School or a Technical College, all children in the state education system left school, with no formal academic qualifications, at the end of the school year in which they reached their 14th birthday, ‘O’ levels, ‘A’ levels, gCSE’s etc followed the introduction of the Butler Act, which also raised the school leaving age to 16, with opportunities to remain in full time education until 18 years old. Having left school at the end of the 1941 Christmas term, I started work in January 1942 at Pobjoy Airmotors and Aircraft Ltd, in what pre-war had been the Bondor factory at the end of Hitchin Street, starting my formal five year apprenticeship with them on my
NO FORMAL QUALIFICATIONS
16th birthday in September 1943. Part of my apprentice training meant extending my education with one day a week attendance at Luton Technical College. All this was interrupted in July 1946 when my ‘calling-up papers’ required me to report for Army service. After the usual six weeks ‘squarebashing’ I was posted to the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. For the latter part of 1947 and the early months of 1948 I served in Palestine with the Sixth Airborne Division, returning to England when the British Mandate ended and the state of Israel was founded. After ‘demob’ at the end of July 1948 I started work in the machine shop of Smart and Brown (Engineers) Ltd at their factory at the southern end of London Road, then in January 1957 I moved to Weatherley Oilgear Ltd to become an engineering draughtsman in the Drawing Office of their Dells Lane factory. Weatherley were taken over by Cincinnati Milling Machines (later Cincinnati Milacron Ltd) and for the later years of my working life I was manager of the Engineering Department of the Broach Division of Cincinnati Milacron. During my time with this firm I travelled quite a lot on Company business; in the UK and to most other European countries, usually for overnight visits or just a few days; but I also spent four months in the main factory in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, two weeks in Belgrade, three weeks in Israel and a month in Taiwan. A major interest for a large part of my life was Scouting. I joined the Cubs in the summer of 1937, went up into the Scouts in May 1939, became a Rover Scout in November 1945 and soon after received my Warrant as Assistant Scout Master. After
JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 23
demob from the army I was warranted as Scout Master of the 9th Beds (Biggleswade) Scout Troop, (now the 1st Biggleswade). When working hours made it difficult to give the proper amount of time to being a uniformed Leader I resigned my Warrant and became a lay member of the group Committee. (nowadays called the group Executive) and for many years was Chairman. I was also a member of the Scout District Association, serving on subcommittees such as the Art and Handicraft, Swimming gala, Annual Ball and the Warrants Committee. For several years I was District Water Activities Adviser, my main interest in this capacity being sailing, with many enjoyable days spent on grafham Water and Stewartby Lake. By the time that I retired from the group Committee in 1987 I had been an active member of the Biggleswade Scout group, in one capacity or another, for fifty years. Today I am Chairman of the local Scout Fellowship, a group of people who were actively involved in Scouting for many years, but are not able to do so now because of age, or health, or often a combination of the two, but who still like to keep in contact. In 2009 I was one of a small team who wrote and published the ‘100 year History of Biggleswade Scout group’. In the early 1970s I was a member of the Biggleswade Dramatic Society for a few years and took part in four of their plays, put on in the hall at the Constitutional (Conservative) Club. Among the leading members at that time were Nora Skirton, Eva Norman, Norman gill and Peter Foinette.
At about the same time I was also a member of the Biggleswade Camera Club, who met in Watkin’s canteen, just off the Twitchell. Having inherited an interest in gardening from my father, (gardening was one of the subjects that he taught at ‘Hicks Pits Academy’), I was a member of Biggleswade gardening club for a number of years and had an allotment until the end of August 2010 After retirement at the end of 1992 I was able to spend more time at some of my activities and interests and to expand into new ones. For five years, until my 70th birthday I drove the Ivel Sprinter Community Bus several times each month. Before the passing of the years finally took its toll, my wife Kathleen and I had always enjoyed walking in the countryside, particularly in areas with lakes and mountains. As well as the Lake District, Wales, Exmoor and Dartmoor we had walked in the Bavarian Alps, the Black Forest, The Bernese Oberland in Switzerland and the Dolomites
CAMERA CLUB MEMBER
For further information contact: Jane Dale 01767 650340, editor@biggleswadehistory.org.uk www.biggleswadehistory.org.uk
Continued on next page
24 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
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ERIC JAMES LUND (1927 – 2016)
in northern Italy, but we also liked walking in our own local countryside. From this experience I wrote a weekly route description of local country walks for the Biggleswade Chronicle from April to October for two years. Also on retirement I joined the Ivel Valley (Biggleswade) branch of University of the Third Age and amongst other activities with them I lead the walking group on a walk of about three miles once a month. Unfortunately I cannot remember when I joined Biggleswade History Society, but retirement gave me more time to devote to this interest and I became a member of the Committee. This was in the days when the late Horace Dilley was Chairman, Ken Page was Secretary and meetings were held in the Weatherley Centre. Some years later when I retired from the Committee I joined the Book Publication Team and to date I have taken part in the writing and production of seven of the Society’s books. The research of material for the books and the subsequent writing and proof reading can be quite time consuming but I have always found it to be very interesting. A thought occurred to me some time ago: the german word for ‘history’ is geschichte and geschichte is also the german word for ‘story’. Obviously a full and complete record of historical events needs to include factual information such as dates, but I have always felt quite strongly that ‘history’ should be presented in the first place as the story of how our ancestors lived their lives in years gone by, both in the recent past and also in the distant past. I hope that one of the main things that we have done as a History Society is to present the story of
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
the history of our town and townsfolk to the present population of Biggleswade, and record it for the interest and enlightenment of future generations. Writing the occasional article for the newsletter over the years has added to my enjoyment of being a member, and the necessary research before writing the articles, or my contribution to the books, has been interesting and educational. It has certainly expanded my knowledge and I would recommend to anyone who has not tried it to have a go! you might surprise yourself! Within recent years I was the Society’s President for a time, until by mutual consent I agreed to accept the position of Vice President, subject to the members’ approval at the AgM, leaving the position of President to be offered to Ken Page. This, I am happy to say, was confirmed by members at the next AgM and we have in Ken a very worthy President. At that same AgM the members also honoured me by making me an Honorary Life Vice President. I hope to continue being an active member of Biggleswade History Society for as long as I am able to and look forward to the Society continuing to grow, expanding both its membership numbers and its historical activities. One thing that I soon learned when taking part in my various interests in the past years and that has certainly been confirmed during my years as a member of Biggleswade History Society is that what you get out of being a member of an organisation such as ours is directly related to what you put into it.
More good or outstanding schools
ALISTAIR Burt has welcomed the news that more children are being taught in good or outstanding schools. New figures from Ofsted show that another four schools in Central Bedfordshire have been judged good or outstanding in their most recent inspection compared to 2015. Across the East of England, 210 more schools have been rated as good or outstanding.
Across the country the proportion of all schools judged to be good or outstanding at their most recent inspection was 89 per. As a result almost 1.8 million more children are now in good schools compared to 2010. Alistair said: “It is great news that the latest figures show that 118 schools in Central Bedfordshire are now rated good or outstanding. But we know there is more to do and the government has set out plans to make more good school places available to more parents. We are making sure every child can access high quality education, so that they have the opportunity to go as far as their talents will take them.”
UP ON 2010
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 25
JANUARY IN THE GARDEN – by Milton Ernest Garden Centre
HE often gloomy days in midwinter make any colour in our gardens very welcome. The main source in January is found amongst the evergreens some of which are also flowering and perfumed. The larger evergreens like Viburnum Tinus Variegata has cream and green variegated leaves and white pink scented flowers while Viburnum Eve Price and gwenillian have green foliage covered by white pink perfumed flowers. Mahonia Charity and Bealei are also large backdrop shrubs with long yellow sweetly scented flowers. Viburnum Bodnantense Dawn produces bright pink flowers along their bare stems. Jasmine Nudiflorum, can be grown against a wall or fence and has bright yellow flowers also on bare stems throughout winter. Another wall plant flowering in January is Clematis Cirrhosa Freckles with pale yellow and maroon bell flowers. Smaller evergreens like Nandina Domestica has bronzy orange red leaves which darken as the weather gets colder, Loropetalum Firedance needs a sheltered place but produces an amazing rainbow of purple, red and bronze leaves.
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Skimmia Rubella carries its red buds above bright green leaves all winter before the flowers open in March. Hebe Heartbreaker has cream pink and green leaves all year but becomes vivid pink in winter while Hebe Purple Shamrock leaves become deep purple. Sarcocca Humilis and Digyna are the most delightful small evergreen plants. If planted next to the front door you can enjoy the scent of the white flowers whenever you go home.
Another recommendation is Daphne Aureomarginata with variegated cream and green leaves and the most gorgeously perfumed pink flowers. Under plant this choice shrub with Cyclamen Coum whose marbled blue green foliage and bright pink
The colours of January in the garden
flowers are a lovely contrast. These small evergreens are all quite suitable to grow in tubs. Winter flowering heathers planted in groups of five or more give large splashes of colour during the overcast months. It is worth preparing the soil well by digging in lots of peat or compost and sharp sand before planting. Trim each plant after flowering in the spring. Heathers are low growing excellent ground cover especially around dwarf conifers but can also be successfully grown in tubs. The flowers vary in colour from red, white, purple to pink and some varieties have bright yellow foliage as well. They are a welcome source of pollen for any flying insects. Some good varieties are Ruby glow, red, White Perfection, white, Nathalie, purple and golden Starlet pink with golden leaves. My most favourite plants for winter colour are the Hellebores. So much work has been done by the nurserymen to produce some really stunning varieties. By micro propagation and continual reselection of
hundreds of thousands of seedlings we are enjoying some amazing varieties. Helleborus Nigra and Orientalis are now producing strong healthy plants with lovely foliage and a paint box of colours in the flowers. The foliage is dense so great ground cover and the flower heads are held high above a feature which is absent in many of the traditional types. Hellebores are easy to grow, love shade, grow well in pots using JI Compost No 2 and only need feeding with Fish Blood and Bone in September. I recommend you look out for the following varieties. Helleborus Winter Moonbeam pure glistening white turning pink and red, Angel glow with pink buds opening to frothy pink flowers with blue green leaves and Cinnamon Snow with pink buds opening to creamy flowers with hints of rose and cinnamon, Spring Promise Lily a semi double flower with creamy pink and darker pink veining and Walbertons Rosemary with lots of rosy pink blooms.
26 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
sport
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FOOTBALL – BY MICHAEL DRAXLER
Cold and crisp and even
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BIGGLESWADE TOWN ..............2 CAMBRIDGE CITY ......................1
ITH Christmas stampeding towards us and only 4 games before the big day, a Christmas headline seems appropriate. The pitch did really well thawing during the day for the game to be in no doubt whilst those around us fell foul of the cold snap. Cambridge did not come to us with the best of playing records and the early game belonged to the Waders. Dancing toes on the white surface certainly gave cheer to those of us that braved the minus temperatures. Effiong, Burnett, Daniel, Hoenes and Lucan were running at the City defence firing at will. It came as no surprise on 8 that the magical Burnett got his head to a ball that just fell over the line. Shape of things to come? No Charlie Day stole in on a mix up in the Wader’s backline to put the ball away against the run of play on 14. The game had a cavalier feel as both teams sprayed the ball about with still the Waders having the better of possession. Order was restored on 31 when Connor Hall hit a low half volley from outside the box to give Biggleswade a deserved lead going into the break. With the temperature dropping, Cambridge adapted to the conditions better and instead of the forward line being dominant it now fell to the back line of Our man, Lewis, Perry, Hoyte and Evan Key to keep the very lively city team at bay.
That felt special – it was special
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BIGGLESWADE TOWN .......2 CHIPPENHAM TOWN .........2 HEN you consider Chippenham as a team, the best footballing side to have visited the Langford Road this season. To
come out of this match with immense credit and a point, a demonstration of fantastic team work was nothing short of brilliant for the current Wader’s side. Its always difficult to go ahead early but an unfortunate hand to ball, ball to hand by Chippenham’s 2 Dan Bowman saw Inih Effiong give the Waders the lead after 3 minutes from the penalty spot. Chippenham set about repairing the damage with flowing football and the main threat came down the wing in a number seven shirt Alex Ferguson. He was the player the chances fell to but with the Biggleswade defence in defiant mood and our man Brown and his compatriots Lewis, Perry, Hoyte and Short putting their bodies on the line and somehow kept the lead for the boys in green. An incident just before the break saw Tony Burnett and Chippenham’s greg Tindle get first crack at the shower gel as the referee brandsished the red card, which did not amount to more than “handbags” The discussion continued long after the 45 minute whistle by players, officials and spectators. Out for the second 45 and the rain even more persistant, the pitch getting slippy and starting to cut up. Tactics for the half, let them come at us and hope to catch them on the break. It worked well with Effiong breaking down the left, he was felled by the keeper and a second penalty. This time Chippenham keeper, guessed right and palmed the ball away. Chippenham still steamrollered forward and with our boys having been under t6he onslaught for 65 minutes, something had to give as Chippenham got more and more dominant. On 71 David Pratt slipped his marker and a shot across our man found the ball crossing the line from a very tight angle. 2 minutes later Andy Sandell doubled their score with a simple tap in when the Waders failed, for the first time in the match, to clear their lines. 2-1 to the bad, Burnett off, Effiong off, exhausted after chassing the ball down all afternoon. Connor
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Vincent his replacement carried on with harrasing, with Robbie Parker making a welcome return, looking energetic and doing what Robbie does best winning a keeping the ball. The Waders pressed forward but created little in clean chances. Time running down, Craig Daniel on the left, square pass into Callum Lewis in acres of space. Advice from the bench, don’t shoot Callum, don’t shoot. But as the words left the management’s mouths, Callum shot. And what a shot fully 30 to 35yards depending on your eyesight it looped over the suprised keeper. Chippenham were in despair. In the anxious time added the west country boys tried their best bringing out a one handed wonder save from our man Brown. The final whistle and rapturous applause from the crowd, who know they witnessed a great contest. Something really special which is becoming more and more a feature of the Wader game.
Our man modesty
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BIGGLESWADE TOWN .......2 CHESHAM UNITED ..............2 EADINg through the after match tweets I came across one from our man Brown, whose antics between the sticks was very much up to the call and beyond. Ian Brown’s tweet goes something like I was only trying to keep the score down. given the Wader’s circumstances of playing the last 25 minutes with only 9 he did a brilliant job. The match never in doubt after Tuesday’s postponement, both sides took a while to warm up on a chilly afternoon with the mist and fog moving in. A dull affair with neither side prepared to commit. Daniel back in his favoured right flank position and Hoenes on the other side started to pose problems. A free kick in from the right on twenty was only partially cleared to Russell Short whose volley was straight and true for a spectacular opener. Waders continued to press
forward and were hindered in their task by some strange decisions. 26 gone and Evan Key adjudged to have fouled an attacker following a corner gave Chesham a penalty. Drew Roberts made no mistake. Biggleswade hit the bar twice as Chesham rode their luck, one from Hoyte and the second from Hoenes. Towards the end of the half a melee of players saw Chesham seven hit the floor and in the confusion Russell Short was shown a red card. No foul or penalty given. The break. Out for the second 45 Robbie Parker replaced Connor Vincent in an attempt to sure up the defence with Evan Key moving back. Chesham made their superior numbers count and sprayed the ball about with space a plenty. It was not long into the half when Ryan Blake slipped his marker and fired Chesham in front on 53. With the majority of play aimed at the waders keeper our man Brown came into his own. Spectacular saves both sides to keep Chesham at bay. 69 gone and with the referee 50 metres from play Evan Key was adjudged to have pulled a shirt in the box. Another penalty and Key following Short to the showers. Roberts allegedly never misses but perhaps he has never shot at our man Brown who pushed the ball round the post. Chesham were stunned but again made numbers count as the Waders held on, everyman doing his bit. The spirit in the side is phenomenal and with all my years watching Biggleswade have never seen a more determined bunch. Enter Manager Nunn and the master plan with 5 minutes remaining. Take off Connor Hall who himself was filling in the back line for Key. On comes Conrad Lucan to add more pace. Within seconds Hoenes broke free and was felled in the box. Penalty but unlike Key the defender only saw yellow. Up steps Inih Effiong and smashes the ball against the back of the net. The crowd went wild as Biggleswade repeated the previous weeks late goal, to earn a fantastic draw against all the odds.
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 27
MOTOR RACING
Track ace Ben tries rallycross!
AS he chased down the car in front, the windscreen was battered by a huge wave of muddy water thrown up from the sodden ground, which immediately became smeared by the wipers obscuring any view out of the front. It was a good job then, that 2015 RSF MSA young Driver of the year Ben Tuck was looking out of the side window as he slid his Swift Sport Rallycross car sideways through the corner in a desperate effort to close the gap on the car in front ready to make a move on the next tarmac section. The last time he was at the wheel of a racing car he piloted his skittish, real wheel drive, open topped Caterham Supersport to an emphatic victory under warm sunny skies at Croft after a half an hour race. Now he was splashing his way through the Welsh mud in rain and zero visibility heading into the final of the Pembrey round of the British Swift Sport Rallycross Championship. Thanks to Lumena Lights Ltd and Peter gwynne Motorsport, Ben was taking part in his first ever Rallycross event after being chosen as the winner of the Lumena Lights guest driver drive. “It was a huge honour to be chosen for this, it’s great challenge and perfect for my development” said Ben. “Competing in something so different from my normal racing really brings out the need to adapt, think and learn quickly, you’ve got to work really hard to be competitive”.
So how does a multiple race winning, rear wheel drive track ace adapt to loose surface front wheel drive racing? The Suzuki Swift Rallycross Cham pionship is run by Peter gwynne Motorsport, who administer the series, and provide full technical support and hospitality to the championship. The single make championship has junior and senior divisions and is designed to be a cost effective launch pad for Rallycross racers. Ben’s first introduction to the car was in the pouring rain early on race day. The squat little matt black rally car, complete with Ben’s 2015 race number - 3, had been humorously adorned with “This way up!” stickers by the team. After a seat fitting, it was clear that visibility in the car was much more restricted than his Caterham, including a safety net which stretched across the driver’s side window effectively blocking the view to the side mirror. The car rested on surprisingly smooth yokohama tyres. These were not the knobbly rally tyres that were expected. Swift Rallycross racing is all about value for money and driver talent with the same tyre being used come rain or shine, requiring a deft feel for changing grip levels. Rallycross is competed in a similar way to karting, with heats, a semi final and a final. As a Rallycross novice, Ben would begin his first
LOOSE SURFACE
heat from the back after completing some sighting laps to get a first taste of the car and the soggy South Wales circuit. Ben’s first Heat was run in very wet and challenging conditions. Visibility was the first big problem. As soon as the dirt section was hit, mud and filthy water was caked across the car, eliminating visibility through the rear window and reducing the visibility out of the front and side windows. “you just have to develop a kind of sixth sense of what’s around you. you can’t see out of the mirrors at all so if someone was to make a lunge up the inside it would be hard to see them coming. The surface is different every inch of the circuit and on every lap it changes as puddles get emptied, and mud gets sprayed all over the place. you don’t have a consistent feel for exactly how much grip you’re going to have at any point, you just have to react at the time.” Then of course there was the challenge of front wheel drive. Ben’s entire career has been in rear wheel drive machines, from karts via Mazda sportscars up to his Caterham Supersport. “Out of everything, that was probably the hardest to get used to. Everything is upside down in terms of driving quick. It was tricky to get the fronts to dig in properly to get rotation so the lines were important to maximise the grippier bits of the surface. Of course on the next lap it would all be different! Once used to it I could get the car swinging around its front axle more like a pendulum. It’s a really different technique, but brilliant practice to get the brain working!” “The Swift is a great little car on the tarmac too, I got a good feel for the brakes so I could push deeper into the braking zones. I was surprised at the amount of grip the yokohama’s give on the tarmac so I could use a little bit of experience there to get a few positions”. By lunchtime the day had dried and Ben had
done well enough for a mid pack slot in the second semi final. Throughout the day his team mates in the Peter gwynne awning and his fellow Swift drivers were regularly popping past to chat and offer advice. “It’s been an amazing welcome; we really feel part of the team”. The semi-final netted Ben a creditable 4th position - good enough for the final. “I knew it would be a tough challenge and I wanted to reward Lumena Lights and Peter gwynne with a good result. I knew that you’ve got to be a great all-round driver to do well in Rallycross. getting into the final was the target so I’m happy!” The format of Rallycross makes the races short and snappy. “There’s none of the tyre management and slipstream strategy that there is in Caterhams. This, is a 10 minute punch up from lights out (well lights ON in Rallycross!) and you’ve got to get your moves done fast. It rewards quick thinking and opportunistic driving, and it’s all over before you know it! “
Ben went on to take 6th in the Final, a respectable finish for his Rallycross debut. “This has been a brilliant experience for my development as a driver and also great fun. Everybody from the Peter gwynne team and all the mechanics to the other drivers and the organisers have been great. It’s been a superb experience. Rallycross is really starting to get big now, even Jenson Button is talking about doing it! It’s still definitely something on our radar for the future”. Since his Rallycross debut, Ben has signed up for a second season of Caterham Supersport in 2017. you can follow and contact Ben on Facebook - Ben Tuck Racing, on Twitter @BTuckRacing and the Internet - www.bentuck.com
BRILLIANT EXPERIENCE
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CRICKET
East Beds Charity Shield cheque presentation
TEN local organizations and charities were represented at the annual presentation of cheques held at Sandy Village Hall on Wednesday December 7. Chairman John gurney welcomed all of the charities and organisations and said that the money had been raised from collections at evening cricket matches and the Annual Bowls Match against East Beds League Bowls together with an Annual golf Tournament. John gurney also introduced Chris Davies, Pres ident, and Chris Hunt, Secretary of the East Beds Bowls League. Chris Davies then presented the cheques of £600 each to the following organisations, an increase on previous due to more income being raised: Gateway Club, Biggleswade; Gateway Club, St Neots; Ivel Stroke Club; Friends of Abbotsbury; Hearts in Beds Cardiac Support Group; paper; Ampthill Jigsaw Club. In addition Chris Davis preMacmillan Cancer Relief; Sue Ryder Homes; Cheshire Home; sented a cheque for £200 to Mrs Biggleswade Talking News - Christine Kettleborough on behalf
of The Brain Tumour Charity. This Those present enjoyed a seawas in recognition of services to sonal buffet prepared by the local cricket by her late husband ladies, John gurney thanked the John Kettleborough. ladies for supplying the buffet.
BOWLS
Christie receives ‘Player of the Year’ award
THE County Competition Winners from Biggleswade Town Bowls Club attended the Bowls Bedfordshire County Luncheon on Sunday 4 December at the Auction Rooms, Luton. Their trophies were presented by Mrs Viv
Tomlinson, Senior Vice President of Bowls England and Mrs Doris Wellstead, Ladies President of Bowls Bedfordshire. Jayne Christie won the prestigious award of ‘Player of the year’ for Bedfordshire, following her
success in winning the Four Wood Singles, Two Wood Singles and Pairs with daughter Hannah McConnell. Congratulations go to Jayne Christie, Hannah McConnell, Jacqui Bryant, Chrissie King, Sue
Stone, Jenny Ralph, Brenda Hollands, Elaine Whiteman, Wendy Walker, Cheryl Hills and the Men’s County League Division 2 Winners on their outstanding bowling achievements for 2016.
Left: Biggleswade Champions. Above: Terry Hollands and Paul Bryant Representatives of Mens County League Team.
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 29
out & about Castle Comedy Biggleswade
Castle Comedy Biggleswade is the monthly comedy club held at george’s Hall Bar & grill. The comedy club has been bringing the biggest comedy stars to Biggleswade for nearly three years. A recent performer was Joel Dommett who came second in ‘I’m a Celebrity… get me Out of Here!’ A new season of comedy shows gets under way in February and runs through to July, so the first half of 2017 means that Biggles will have giggles! The first show with availability is on Monday March 6th. It’s a Best of British and Irish Comedy Special featuring three headline quality acts! An Englishman, Irishman and Scotsman walk into george’s Hall Bar! Closing the show is Andrew Ryan. He is a charming, hilarious and captivating Irish stand up. He has appeared on Live at The
Comedy Store (Comedy Central), Best of the Edinburgh Festival Live (BBC3) and Russell Howards good News (BBC3). “Utterly brilliant, going to be a huge star.” Timeout Opening the show is Larry Dean. He was crowned Scottish Comedian Of The year at just 23! Larry’s star has continued to rise and rise, with his debut Edinburgh Fringe show ‘Out Now!’ receiving widespread critical and audience acclaim as well as a Fosters Comedy Award nomination for Best Newcomer. He has starred on Live From The BBC (BBC2) and appeared twice on BBC Presents: Best Of The Edinburgh Festival. “The audience lap up his cheekychappie shtick...here's to a generation of new Billy Connollys” The Guardian In the middle is Matthew Osbourne who was crowned English Comedian of the year in 2009! He’s has supported Harry Hill and Al Murray on tour. He has also appeared on Russell Howard’s good News (BBC3). The April show on Monday the 3rd sees the return of Bob Mills! He
is one of the most recognisable and respected comedians in the business. With over 30 years at the top of the UK circuit he is a bona fide comedy legend! Bob is one of the current stars of TalkSport Radio where he co presents every Friday with Jim White and TalkRadio where he has his own show ‘Tragedy Plus Time’ where he talks comedy to the biggest stars in the country. Perhaps his biggest achievement in radio was being crowned BBC 5Live’s 'Fighting Talk' champion of champions in 2010. The shows in May and June are being finalised but the show on Monday July 4th stars James Acaster. He will be performing ‘Represent’ which was nominated for the Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Show in 2015. He is widely regarded as the comedian of his generation! He has appeared on just about every TV stand up show including Mock the Week and Live at The Apollo. “Comic Genius” The Evening Standard
The shows sell out quickly, with the Dinner & Show tickets being particularly popular, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment! Doors open 7.30pm, Shows start at 8.00pm and tickets are £8 (£6 NUS) or if you fancy a treat, you can buy £18 tickets, which include a pre, show meal and glass of wine from the fabulous george’s Hall Bar & grill. To book visit www.castlecomedy.co.uk
30 — BULLETIN JANUARY 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
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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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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’
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BUGGY FIT CL ASSES
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
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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.org.uk or contact glen on 01234 870488
BIGGLESWADE CARNIVAL
Biggleswade Carnival parade day for next year is Saturday 24th June 2017 and the theme is Nursery rhymes, Application forms will be available from January 2017.For further information contact 07810647749.
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 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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BADMINTON
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TRINITY METHODIST CHURCH
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 To find out more please contact Alan on 07974187866 or Colin on 01767 317099
Shortmead Street Biggleswade.
IVEL STROKE CLUB
18.00 3rd Sun Informal service Rev. Lorna Valentine.
We invite all stroke survivors & their carers to join our
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TABLE TENNIS
Tuesdays, Saxon Pool and Leisure Centre, Noon–1pm all equipment provided. £1.50 per session
WALKING FOOTBALL
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
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Sunday 8th January 9.30 a.m. Rev. Prof. Peter Byass Communion service 10.30 a.m. Mr. Jim Ragless
Sunday 15th January 10.30 a.m. Rev. Prof. Peter Byass Sunday 22nd January 10.30 a.m. Mrs. M. Munro
Sunday 29th January 10.30 a.m. Covenant Service. Rev. Prof. Peter Byass Sunday 5th February 10.30 a.m. Cafe style Worship Mr. Paul Cooper Sunday 12th February 9.30a.m. Rev. Prof Peter Byass Communion service 10.30 a.m. Rev Stan Short
Sunday 19th February 10.30 a.m. Mr. glynne Rowlands 18,00 3rd Sun Informal service Rev Prof Peter Byass
Sunday 26th February 10.30 a.m. Rev. Bill Davis (Supernumerary Minister)
SANDy HORTICULTURAL ASSOCIATION
‘DEATH IN THE GARDEN’ a talk with Michael Brown
on Wednesday 18th January at 7.30. p.m. at Sandy Conservative Bowls Pavilion.
Organised by Sandy Horticultural Association. Optional meal afterwards, to book meal contact 01767 680983/681457. See website wwwthesandyshow.org.uk
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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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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
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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
–––––––––––––––––––––––– 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.
SANDy HISTORICAL SOCIETy. Friday January 27th 7.30pm. Stonecroft Hall. St Swithins Way Sandy
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THE FESTIVAL OF BRITAIN 195
An illustrated talk by Peter Ibbett. Visitors welcome Admission £ 2.00 including refreshments Members free . For further details contact NIgel Aldis 01767 691333
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CANCER SUPPORT 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 1pm - 3pm Telephone, Secretary Amanda 01767 313662 or gina 07812796581 csgbiggleswade@gmail.com FB. Cancer Support group Biggleswade.
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JANUARY 2017 BULLETIN — 31