YOUR FREE COPY
BULLETIN SANDY, BEESTON & BIGGLESWADE EDITION
MAY 2016
Biggleswade TOWN COUNCIL
COUNCIL MEETINGS: 10 May ANNUAL STATUTORY MEETING 7.30pm 24 May
*ANNUAL ASSEMBLY*
31 May FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSE 7 June TOWN CENTRE MANAGEMENT 14 June COUNCIL 21 June PUBLIC LANDS AND OPEN SPACES 28 June 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.
THE ORCHARD COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND EAST OF BIGGLESWADE
Biggleswade Town Council will be taking over responsibility for the new Community Centre in the next few weeks. Keep an eye on our website for further details.
KNOW YOUR COUNCILLORS
Cllr Mrs Hazel Ramsay – Cllr Michael R North MAYOR Conservative – Holme Conservative – Stratton Cllr Bernard J Rix Cllr David Albone – Independent – Stratton DEPUTY MAYOR Cllr Mrs Madeline A Labour – Ivel Russell Cllr Peter Biernis Conservative – Ivel Labour – Ivel Cllr Duncan A Strachan Cllr Ian J Bond Conservative – Ivel UKIP – Stratton Cllr Bernard V Briars Cllr Steven Watkins Labour – Ivel Conservative – Stratton Cllr Frank S Foster Cllr George E D Wilson UKIP – Ivel Conservative – Stratton Cllr Mark A Foster Cllr Timothy P Independent – Stratton Woodward Cllr Ms Rebecca Kerfoot Conservative – Holme Labour – Ivel
GENERAL MARKETS on the Market Square Tuesdays and Saturdays 8am-4pm
FARMERS’ MARKETS (on the last Wednesday each month)
25 May forward from the 22 June brought last Wednesday
On the Market Square 9am – 2pm
Where you can buy locally produced meat, pies, cakes, eggs, Bedfordshire Clangers, HOT pork rolls and NOW PVC Oil Cloth Bags (Handbags, Shoppers, Mini totes, weekend bags, baby bags, purses, coin purses etc.)
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MARKETS
We currently have vacancies on our monthly Biggleswade Farmers’ Market which is held on the last Wednesday of the month (unless notified otherwise). We would welcome anyone who grows, fruit and vegetables, or flowers as well as producers of all types of crafts, including jewellery, candles, knitting, sewing, wood crafts, cakes, jams, pickles and preserves. Until further notice, the charge for a stall is half price, that’s only £9.90. You will need to hold current Public Liability Insurance and Food Hygiene Certificate (if applicable.) Come along and support your local Farmers’ Market! If you would like to trade on the Farmers’ Market, or require any further information, please contact Sue at Biggleswade Town Council on 01767 313134 or email: enquiries@biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk 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
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 3
East West rail route announcement is good news for Bedfordshire
Network rail’s preferred option for the Central Section of the route is the Bedford–Sandy– Cambridge corridor.
The proposed Central Section would connect with the Western Section of East West Rail via a geographic ‘corridor’ that starts in the Bedford area and progresses towards Sandy and on to Cambridge. Network Rail will publish written documentation, analysis and evidence supporting the decision in May. Once the methodology behind the Bedford-Sandy-Cambridge corridor is published, further analysis and consultation will take place to determine options for the ‘line on a map’ route. Cllr Sue Clark, Deputy Executive Member for Regeneration at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “It is incredibly important we continue to make progress
with the Central Section, as its completion means faster and better rail services for Central Bedfordshire, bringing essential infrastructure to support housing growth and the prospect of more jobs.” Erica Blamire, Principal Strategic Planner at Network Rail, said: “In reaching our decision on the Central Section we have assessed the benefits and costs of several potential broad corridors, with input from rail industry stakeholders and regional working groups, including the local authorities in the East West Rail Consortium and the Department for Transport. “We’ve considered the station catchment areas for population and employment, operating costs, forecast passenger demand, demand for short and longer distance journeys, and the impact on reducing crowding on the London rail network. “We’ve also considered the infrastructure needs, train service opportunities and wider impacts that the railway would have. This work has allowed us to reduce the 20 potential corridors which were originally identified down to this single corridor which the evidence indicates offers the best return on investment.”
East West Rail seeks to provide more, faster and more reliable services connecting East Anglia with Central, Southern and Western England to improve connectivity and support economic growth. Work is already underway on the Western Section of East West Rail. A new passenger service between Oxford Parkway and London Marylebone via Bicester Village started in October 2015. Services will operate from Oxford from December 2016.” At a meeting of Sandy Town Council on 9 November 2015 the Council Resolved that it strongly supported the East West Rail link coming via the Sandy corridor. As such today’s announcement is welcomed by the Town Council and we look forward to hearing more specific details about the corridor route and the effect this will have on Sandy. The East West rail link will have a big impact on Sandy and the Council will be working to create a link with the East West Rail Consortium to ensure we have as much information as possible about the proposals. It is hoped that the Consortium will now actively engage with the town and its residents on a local level throughout the process.
Is your kitchen looking tired? We are replacement kitchen doors and kitchen refurbishment specialists since 1980
Find us on
We offer a wide range of home improvement services from painting and decorating, carpentry, plumbing and light building works Wychway, East Road, Langford
07568 579889
D TED AN D, PAIN ES OVER O O W SOLID TED FINISH OURS L A LAMIN YLES AND CO T S 500
KitchenDoor Solutions Contact: Iain Smith on 01234 389063 or 07583 869741 iain@kitchendoorsolutions.co.uk
ALL BEDS
4 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
Biggleswade Carnival 2016
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Please see below the exciting list of events for this year’s Biggleswade Carnival: Saturday 18th June . . . . . . . . Horse race Night (Gardeners Arms, Potton road) Monday 20th June . . . . . . . . Darts Night (Biggleswade Social Club) Saturday 25th June . . . . . . . whimsical Quiz (Gardeners Arms, Potton road) Sunday 26th June . . . . . . . . . Duck race (Dan Albone Car Park and river) Monday 27th June . . . . . . . . Quiz Night (Biggleswade Social Club) tuesday 28th June . . . . . . . . Bingo (Biggleswade Social Club) thursday 30th June . . . . . . . Crib Night (Biggleswade Social Club) Saturday 2nd July . . . . . . . . . Parade day theme: Music through the Ages If you would like to enter a float or vehicle in the procession, be walker or assist the carnival committee please visit the carnival website or contact Diane on: 07806 636021 (after 7pm only). For further information and to download application forms please go to: www.biggleswade-carnival.org. or visit the Carnival Facebook Page: Biggleswade Carnival.
Be cautious
BEWARE Greeks bearing gifts, well not quite Greeks but people from the eastern part of Europe are being particularly helpful in the high street branches of some banks. Apparently the ATMs inside the main branches will dispense a lot more cash than say a cash machine outside in the street. Recently an unsuspecting customer tried to use the ATM in a bank in the high street but there appeared to be a malfunction. A helpful person who was standing nearby suggested that the machine wasn’t working properly and that they should go and have a word with one of the bank’s customer service representatives. Well by the time the ‘rep’ had logged on to the person’s account the helpful person of eastern appearance or their accomplice(s) had helped themselves to £2,250 in cash from the account. So the moral if you have a problem with an ATM, is beware of anyone being too helpful, well that excludes the bank staff of course, because there may be a scam going on. Our advice is stick with the machine and holler out loud to get some attention and see if anyone makes a hasty exit!
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 5
Sandy chooses its Carnival Court
ThE annual Prince and Princess competition was held at Sandy Roundabout Club on Sunday 17th April 2016 and enjoyed an excellent turnout, with 14 potential Princesses and four potential Princes. The judging was carried out by Daniel and Zoe Davie of Inskip & Davie Estate Agents and a member of the Carnival Association. The winners are Lui Ahmetaj (age 8) and Madison Applegate (age 7), both of Robert Peel Lower School. Madison’s mum was once Sandy Carnival royalty herself, so Madison appears to be carrying on this tradition. The new Prince and Princess were crowned by the outgoing Prince and Princess and were presented with their trophies and prizes, which were donated by hayley Stewart, Carnival Association Chair. As it is a special birthday year for Queen Elizabeth II, a separate competition was also run, to find a Sandy Carnival Queen for 2016. Many thanks to all those ladies who
took part; the eventual winner being Jackie horn (who was herself, a previous Sandy Carnival Queen in the late sixties). her first duty was to light the the Queen’s 90th birth-
for the free use of their function room, the judges who had such a difficult task in choosing between all the worthy entrants and everyone who came along.
WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES Manufactured and installed by local craftsmen
Let’s Dance
ONCE again Sandy Upper School has shown what an inspirational school it is. We went to see the latest production ‘Let’s Dance’ performed last week by the students who were joined by children from Sandy Place Academy and other local primary schools. The talent, confidence and enthusiasm was amazing and the result of very hard work by staff, especially Ms Newman and many hours of rehearsal put in by the students. We thoroughly enjoyed the show which we thought was the best ever. And a bonus for us was to see both of our grandsons dance. We would like to thank everyone involved, we are proud you are putting Sandy on the map for all the right reasons. C M and R W Mackenzie, Sandy
day beacon in Sandy, alongside the Town Mayor, on Thursday 21st April 2016. The Carnival Association would like to thank the Roundabout Club
r a no o f y t oda Call t ation cha oblig
OFFICE AND FACTORY:
■ Windows ■ uPVC Doors, Composite Doors ■ French Doors, Patio Doors, Bifold Doors ■ Conservatories ■ Deposit Indemnity ■ 10 year insurance-backed Guarantee ■ Certass Registration – Building Regulations
Red Gate Farm, Mill Road, Thurleigh, Bedford MK44 2DP t: 01234 771100 e: info@gandlwindows.co.uk www.gandlwindows.co.uk
6 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 7
Don’t forget to choose!
ASDA Chosen By You .... Given By Us green token vote now takes place every three months. Customers are encouraged to complete the Nominate a Cause leaflet (found in store) or go online to the store page and complete the You Choose section. The nominations are put to our Colleague Voice who then choose three from those submitted. Customers and colleagues are then encouraged to vote for the charity they would like to receive a donation from the Asda Foundation. The winner will receive £200 and
the two runners up will receive £50. Three photos showing the three nominations for the last voting period. In first place was the Airfield Volunteer Fire Service who are pictured receiving their cheque for £200 from store manager Scott Melville. They were also in-store fundraising last weekend and raised a fantastic £444.67. The two runners up who both received cheques for £50 were Trinity Toddlers and the Biggleswade Day Centre.
Mondays 9.30 & 11.30am CONSERVATIVE CLUB
19 Bedford Road, Sandy SG19 1EL Contact Joyce 01767 681853
Mondays 5.30 & 7.30pm BIGGLESWADE ADULT CENTRE 142 London Road, Biggleswade SG18 8HA Contact Adela 01767 600680
NEW SESSION Tuesdays 5.30 & 7.30pm BIGGLESWADE ACADEMY
Mead End, Biggleswade SG18 8JU Contact John 01767 221056 or 07767 471503
Wednesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm SANDY VILLAGE HALL
Medusa Way, Sandy SG19 1BN Contact Joyce 01767 681853
Saturdays 8.30am ST ANDREWS ROOMS St Andrews Street, Biggleswade SG18 8BA Contact Adela 01767 600680
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
8 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
Need an electrician? Fully qualified • Professional • Clean & tidy work • Free quotations ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Steve Peacock
01234 871366 07947 575124 GREAT BARFORD
Consumer Unit replacements Shower replacement/install New Installations Security Lighting Rewires, Extensions PA Testing Testing and Inspecting Fault finding, minor maintenance Landlord safety certificates Emergency lighting upgrades
www.asohmelectrics.co.uk
BUILDING MAINTENANCE ■ ■ ■ ■
Plumbing Tiling Plastering Painting & decorating
■ ■ ■ ■
Carpentry Alterations Kitchens Bathrooms
■ ■ ■ ■
Insurance work Free estimates Free call out Free advice
YOUR LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS
A. J. DAY
Tel: 01767 314445 / 07802 530951 Email: dayalan60@googlemail.com
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
SANDY TOWN COUNCIL
ThE Town Council owns “The Riddy Local Nature Reserve” which borders the River Ivel and allows residents of Sandy and Beeston to fish the river during the fishing season (June to March) for free. A Residents’ Permit is required which can be obtained from the Town Council offices and for more information please contact the offices. We also hold a wide range of leaflets about local attractions, walks and information about local transport together with application forms for free bus travel in Bedfordshire.
2016 SPRING/SUMMER GUIDED WALKS AND AUTUMN/WINTER TALKS
Woodbury hall and Tetworth hall Estates Walk – Wednesday 18th May at 2.30pm. Meet at Everton Church. A Tour of the Gardens and the house at The Lodge, Sandy – Sunday, 5th June. Meet at The Lodge at 2pm A Guided Tour of the
Grounds and the interior of Sandye Place – Wednesday, 6th July. Meet at the Town Council Offices at 7pm The Cardington Walk – Sunday, 14th August. Meet at the Village Car Park, Cardington at 2.30pm The Squires Walk – part of the Bedfordshire Walking Festival in September – date to be arranged ‘Parliament through 40 plus years of challenge and change’ by Lord Naseby – Friday 7th October ‘The Great Northern Railway in Bedfordshire’ by George howe – Monday 14th November ‘Growing a business in Sandy’ by Richard Banks – Wednesday, 14th December For more information please contact the office. SANDY TOWN COUNCIL 10 CAMBRIDGE ROAD SANDY SG19 1JE Tel 01767 681491 Email: admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
“…competitive prices and friendly advice” ● Timber & Building Materials ● Bathroom & Tile Showroom ● Landscaping & Paving Displays ● Hardware & Tool Supplies ● Brick Library & Matching Services
Opening Times Monday–Friday Saturday
01767 312800
7.30am–5.00pm 8.00am–5.00pm
sales@henlowbuidlingsupplies.co.uk www.henlowbuildingsupplies.co.uk 3a Pegasus Drive, Stratton Business Park, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 8QA
SANDY TOWN COUNCIL MEMBERS
BEESTON WARD Cllr M P S co Home 01767 68 tt Work 01767 68 1457 “The Gowans” 0983 Se Great North Ro ddington Nursery, ad Seddington, Sa scott729@btin ndy SG19 1NZ ternet.com FALLOWFI ELD WARD Cllr T Cole Home 01767 69 1 Partridge Piec 9888 Sandy SG19 2U e, teresacole@ho P tmail.co.uk Cllr G Lea ch 01767 681491 C/o Sandy Town 10 Cambridge Council Sandy SG19 1JRoad, admin@sandyt E owncouncil.go v.uk
OF THE TO
Cllr P Shar m 07889 599556 an 3 Swallow Cres Sandy SG19 2St, N
WN COUN
Cllr M J P e 01767 680082 ttitt 42 Swansholm e Sandy SG19 1H Gardens, martin.pettitt@ L virginmedia.co m Cllr S J Su tt 01767 227589 on 33 Bedford Ro ad Sandy SG19 1E , P
IVEL WARD Cllr P Blain e 01767 692619 19 Poplar Clos peterblaine.blaie, Sandy SG19 1HH PINNACLE ne@gmail.com WARD Cllr P N Ald Cllr M Hill 01767 691333 is 01767 681469 7 Mayfield Cour 21 The Green, Be Sandy SG19 1N t, amaxhill@outlo eston, SG19 1PE ok.com. nigel.aldis1@ F gmail.com Cllr W Jack 01767 682549 son Cllr J Ali 14 Westfield Ga 01767 689743 Sandy SG19 1Hrdens, Mob: 07962 36 will.jackson66 F 22 Market Squa1102 2@btinternet.c om Sandy SG19 1J re, A
COUNCIL MEETING DATES All meetings commence at 7.30pm except Development Scrutiny Committee (Planning) which starts at 6.45pm in the Council Chamber, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE
Monday 9 May 2016 Town Council Monday 16 May 2016 Development Scrutiny (Planning) Community Services & Environment Monday 23 May 2016 Policy Finance & Resources Monday 6 June 2016 Development Scrutiny (Planning) Human Resources See our website for details of other meetings ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND
CIL
Cllr C Osb o 01767 682032 rne M.B.E., J.P. Summercourt , Sandy SG19 1L 2 Leeds Smith Drive, U Cllr D Quic 07932 331227 k 1 Cauldwell Co dlshorses@ho urt, Sandy SG19 1DA tmail.co.uk Cllr D Shar 01767 683868 man 21 Falcon Clos e, Sandy SG19 2TA Cllr J Spar row 01767 682693 C/o Sandy Town 10 Cambridge Council scarholme@aoRoad, Sandy SG19 1JE l.com
FAIR N U F ’ S I R HAR ACLE NN AT THE PI Y 2016 A M 4 1 – FROM 12
MARKET
Market Square 9am -1pm
Saturday 7 May 2016 & Saturday 4 June 2016 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
10 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
It’s fun to help
DURING recent months we have heard and seen a lot about the plight of refugees and doubtless we will hear a lot more. Lions in the British Isles and Ireland have set up appeals to help provide essential food and shelter for them.
See www.lionsgiving.org for more information and how you can help. Not only are we supporting refugees worldwide, but we are also helping in the setting up of a medical centre for them in Norway. Biggleswade Sandy Lions support initiatives such as these and always will, but our priority continues to be to help those in need in our area. Before Christmas we had our annual tin shakes and sleigh runs and we have just completed our Easter Egg raffles. Many thanks to all who supported them. Without your kindness and generosity we could not help those less fortunate than ourselves. Please come and see us at the Ickwell May Day, on Monday, 2nd May. We will be there as usual and happy to tell you more about the Lions. Then, on Friday, 27th May we will be having a Summer Ball which should be as enjoyable an evening as our annual Christmas Dances. Tickets are already on sale, to purchase them please contact either, Tony Guy on 07407283941, or Keith Lewis on 01767 262433. Lions is not about giving your own money, but raising money at fund raising events and using it to help the lonely and needy in our local community – all we ask of members is just a little of their time. We are a friendly and socia-
shed Establier ov
s 50year
ble group of men and women who warmly welcome visitors to our meetings on the first and third Wednesday of each month, starting at 8pm. The meetings are held in the meeting’s room of the Biggleswade Conservative Club – the beer there is good as well! Come and join us for a sociable and fun evening and find out more. For more information call Dave and Judith hagger on 01462 814693, or Keith Lewis on 01767 262433, or Roger Wolburn on 01462 814967.
Biggleswade Scout Group Open Event
DO you have a sense of adventure, crave new experiences indoors and outdoors, want to make friends, have fun and learn new skills? Are you a young person between 5 and 14 years old? Come along with a parent / guardian and try Scouting for 2 hours for free! Saturday 21 May 2016 at 2pm at St Andrews Church, Shortmead Street, Biggleswade, SG18 0AT. For more information, please contact Chris Wells on chris@thewellsfamily.org.uk or 07970 269896.
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Good news for buyers of second hand cars
LONG standing campaigner against so-called ‘mileage correction firms’, hPI, has welcomed the recent news that Business Minister, Anna Soubry, has pledged a law change to close the loophole that enables fraudsters to wind back the miles on a vehicle’s odometer. As many as 1.7 million used cars with a fraudulent mileage reading could be on the UK’s roads, posing a considerable danger to other road users. Mileage correction firms are widespread throughout the UK, despite there being very few legitimate reasons for a vehicle to have its mileage altered – also known as ‘clocking’. Clocking is used by criminals to boost the sale price of a vehicle, often adding thousands of pounds to the asking price. however, vehicle history check expert, hPI, warns that due to the computerised systems on modern vehicles today, clocking a car can have serious ramifications over and above a false mileage reading. Around 10% of all the modules in a modern car, such as the airbag, ABS and ignition, feed information into the central ECU system, and each time an event occurs – such as a faulty airbag warning – a ‘snapshot’ of the vehicle’s mileage will be recorded on these modules. Therefore, unless a vehicle’s mileage is wound back by a particularly ‘diligent’ and skilled clocker who alters the mileage readings on all potentially affected modules in addition to the odometer, these will be out of sync, leading to
Fencing specialists Domestic•Commercial• Security
Balaam Brothers Ltd PROFESSIONAL FENCING SPECIALISTS, FABRICATORS AND INSTALLERS The Mill, Brook End, Potton SG19 2QS Tel: 01767 260339 Fax: 01767 260040 www.balaambrothers.co.uk colin@balaambrothers.co.uk
issues with safety warnings – and potentially legal cases in the event of an accident. Neil hodson, deputy managing director for cap hpi explains further, “Clocking is a blight on the used car industry. It’s a fast and easy way for unscrupulous sellers to make money, with many simply thinking, ‘Why not?’. But here is a perfect example of why not – serious problems can occur with a vehicle. “Firstly, there is the potential to miss important servicing and warning light indicators, as the car’s various different components will be reading different mileages. By changing the mileage, a clocker will actually be causing conflicts within the cars electronics and interfering with the normal routines for servicing and repair. In addition, the manufacturer’s warranty is likely to be void if the car is discovered to have been clocked.
Plans to create 300 lower school places in Stotfold
A MeetiNG of the council’s executive in April gave the green light to double the amount of places offered at Fairfield Park Lower by expanding the school onto a second site. the decision follows a fourweek public consultation carried out by the school with the council’s support, which ended last month. the decision means that the outstanding lower school will increase from two-form to fourform entry, eventually offering 600 places for children aged three to nine as well as a 60place nursery. the initial intake of additional children to the new site will commence in September 2017 with numbers gradually rising to meet demand from extra homes being built in the area. the school has already agreed to take additional children on its existing site for September 2016 in the form of a bulge class to meet local need. Subject to planning permission being granted, the new site will be built on what is currently farmland west of Stotfold road.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 11
Forest School Learning HILDREN at The Lawns Nursery School in the centre of Biggleswade, have a unique outdoor environment which facilitates the Forest School ethos. In Denmark, Forest Schools have been part of Early Years Education since the early 1980s. The philosophy of Forest School was based upon a desire to provide young children with an education which encouraged appreciation of the wider, natural world and its conservation. The children at The Lawns, from a very young age of two, have the opportunity to explore our woodland garden using all their senses. Which is often for some children, the first opportunity to be free to explore nature in a safe environment. The older Nursery 3 and 4 year olds, work in small groups on achievable tasks. Which in turn supports their personal, social and emotional development, one of the prime areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum (EYFS). At The Lawns this is one of the most important aspects underpinning all learning and especially supports selfesteem and confidence. The children connect with the environment through the changing seasons. They explore meaningful learning situations which consolidates their learning through first hand experiences. During the Spring Term we have observed the changes, looked for signs of spring such as daffodils, snowdrops and buds. The
C
children have recorded their findings and shared their discoveries. An important aspect of our work at The Lawns is to care for our garden and its wildlife and to understand the importance of conservation.
For further details about our Nursery School and Forest School learning contact: Julie Coles on 01767 312312 or visit our website www. Thelawnsbiggleswade.org
LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE EARLY YEARS LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR CHILD IN BIGGLESWADE?
The Lawns Nursery School offers a unique early years setting for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. Our large woodland environment offers young children the opportunity to explore and learn. We have been established in the centre of the town since 1943 and put children and families at the heart of what we do. We offer flexible places, funded and payable sessions as well as breakfast care.
OPEN MORNING
SATURDAY 14th MAY 2016 10am – 12 noon All welcome
WE PROVIDE HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION AND CARE FOR CHILDREN PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER 2016
If you would like to find out more about our setting and availability. Please contact to arrange a visit.
The Lawns Nursery School The Baulk, Biggleswade, SG18 0PT 01767 312312 www.thelawnsbiggleswade.org
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
12 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
View from
In Focus with
Bishop Richard
Alistair
by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford
by Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP
GOOD NEWS
ONE of the most rewarding experiences of being a Bishop is when I meet women and men who are exploring their call to ordained ministry as a deacon and priest in the Church of England. As part of the process they have to meet me as their Bishop, and gain my support, in order to attend a selection conference. Not only are these inspiring conversations that explore people’s journeys of faith, but they are also occasions of great hope. For many years the Church of England sadly lost the plot on ministry. The numbers coming forward to be ordained went down and, equally significantly, the ages of those selected went up. Not only were there fewer people, but they would serve for less years. Combined with an aging work-force and the consequent increase in retirements the future looked bleak. In recent years the tide has begun to change. More and more people are coming forward and being selected for training; the age profile of those chosen is going down; and in particular a healthy proportion are under thirty. There is a commitment to see these numbers increase further. It is one of the most hopeful indicators in the church today. This is very much the story of ministry in the Diocese of St Albans. In a few weeks’ time it will be represented by those ordained as deacons and priests in our Cathedral. It is good news, not least because across our county a number of parishes are currently vacant. For those who live in henlow and Langford, harold and Carlton, Renhold, Elstow, and elsewhere it matters that there are priests to take on their parishes. Above all it is good and hopeful news because all those I meet with to explore their vocation are committed, not just to pastoring church congregations, but to serving the whole community and being at the heart of their neighbourhoods. As I write this, I am also thinking ahead to our Bishop’s staff residential meeting which is happening at St Columba’s house in Woking; the place to which thirty-seven years ago I went for my selection conference, and where I was recommended for training. It will be the first time I have returned, but already the memories are there of how my call was explored and affirmed. I thank God that others are on the same journey.
RELIABLE ROOFING COMPANY
BUILT UP FELT ROOFING SPECIALISTS & GENERAL ROOF REPAIRS
ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 40 YEARS
■ Slate & tile ■ Replacement facias/soffits, uPVC or timber ■ Guttering maintenance & replacement ■ Free estimates ■ Guaranteed workmanship at realistic prices
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Visit our on our website
Prop: R. S. CROW F.I.O.R.
01767 312914 • 07973 844240 www.reliableroofing-herts.co.uk emails: reliableroofing@btinternet.com
LACK OF PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF AUTISM
WhEN I first became an MP in 1983, I would occasionally meet parents at an advice centre who would say to me: “I think my child has something called autism, but the school does not know what it is. This is rather different now. There has been growing awareness and diagnosis over recent decades. It is estimated that there are some 700,000 people in the UK with autism, of which 120,000 are of school age. As Minister responsible in the Department of health, I am very conscious of both the advances made, and of the issues that still remain.
HOW CAN WAITS BE SHORTENED Attending a meeting with the National Autistic Society this week, I was able to respond to the worries about waiting for diagnosis by saying that the Department and the NhS were actively touring the country at present to examine best and worst practice to try and find out how waits could be shortened. But awareness does not always mean acceptance, and there are still too many occasions when there is a lack of public understanding of the difficulties caused by autism. It is upsetting that one in four sufferers have been asked to leave a public place due to their behaviour. To help with this, the NAS has produced a video ‘Too Much Information’ which describes through the eyes of a brave child called Alex what it’s like to experience common place life. It’s only 90 seconds of yours to watch. Do find it at http://www.autism.org.uk/get-involved/ tmi.aspx and have a look. Thank you.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 13
High Sheriff of Bedfordshire’s appointment ceremony
Bedfordshire has been home to the Whitbread family since around 1280. The family lived firstly in the parish of Shillington before moving to Cardington in 1639 and then to Southill in 1795. Charles and his wife Jane, now live at Southill Park with their two sons and two daughters. Charles follows a tradition of high sheriffs from within his family: 1767 Samuel Whitbread (hertfordshire), 1831 Samuel Charles Whitbread, 1837 William henry Whitbread, 1947 Major Simon Whitbread, 1962 humphrey Whitbread TD, 1973 Sir Samuel Whitbread KCVO. As well as heading up the family estate at Southill, Charles is involved in several organisations in Bedfordshire, and counts natural history, conservation and reading amongst his interests. During his shrieval year he is looking forward to gaining a greater understanding of the legal system as well as meeting and connecting people in a variety of organisations, both voluntary and statutory, throughout the county.
Photogrpahy: Keith Mayhew – People Press.
MR ChARLES WhITBREAD was officially appointed to the Office of the high Sheriff of Bedfordshire at a ceremony held at All Saints Church, Southill on Sunday 3rd April. The ceremony was attended by around 120 dignitaries, family and friends, including the LordLieutenant of Bedfordshire, helen Nellis. The Office of the high Sheriff is an annual appointment by the Queen which goes back to Saxon times and Charles takes over the role from the Countess of Erroll. The high Sheriff is the Queen’s representative in Bedfordshire for all matters relating to the Judiciary and the maintenance of law and order. The Office of high Sheriff is non-political and entirely selffunded. As such, the 55 high sheriffs of England and Wales are able to bring people together within their counties and to support not only the Judiciary but also the enormous contributions made by the emergency services, the armed forces, local authorities, church and faith groups and the voluntary community.
Charles, with the Lord-Lieutenant and his Cadet.
Girlguiding Beds honoured at awards ceremony
ON Thursday 31st March the high Sheriff’s Citizenship Award for 2015–2016 were held at The Forest Centre in Marston Moretaine, Bedford. It was an uplifting evening designed to recognise achievement and to honour the positive work of local volunteers and community groups, who regularly and freely give their time to help others. Members of Girlguiding Bedfordshire were delighted to be winners in three categories for their work as part of the Girlguiding charity. County Commissioner Ann Crome, Bedford Division Commissioner Gill Lake and 15 year old Young Leader Keliyah Morodore-Spencer, all received awards. Ann and Gill have both dedicated many hours to giving girls their own space, allowing girls a voice and in many cases, changing girl’s lives. Keliyah has overcome huge
obstacles in her personal life, including the recent death of a very close family member, to continue her work as a young leader at 25th Stopsley Rainbows as well as helping at 5th Stopsely Guides. Keliyah was thrilled to have won and said: “Even though things are sometimes really challenging for me at home, I still want to give back to my community. I love volunteering and being part of Girlguiding has allowed me to do that, this is very important to me” Gill said: “I have been volunteering within Girlguiding for many years. During that time I have held a number of posts, both as a Leader as well as Division Commissioner, and it is a real honour to receive this award.’ Gill added, ‘ So many people give of their time to lead girls within Guiding and that contribution, is truly priceless.” Well done to every single person who was nominated for an award, Winners one and all!
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
tHe overall winner of this year’s 2016 Sandy 10 road race was Jordan Clay of Leighton Buzzard Athletic Club, who managed to knock more than a minute off his excellent 2015 finishing time. Jordan crossed the line in an impressive 57 minutes 2 seconds, followed closely by Glen turner, also from Leighton Buzzard, only 18 seconds behind him. Hot on his heels was Simon Fraser of St Albans Striders, who finished in 57 minutes 27 seconds, beating his 2015 race time by nearly three minutes and improving his overall position from seventh to third.
14 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
In the Ladies’ race, unattached athlete Georgia Wood crossed the line in 66 minutes 28 seconds, followed just 10 seconds later by Laura Brine who joined her Leighton Buzzard AC team-mates in the winners’ spotlight. In third place was Geraldine Larham of March Athletic Club, who crossed the line in exactly 68 minutes. . The ‘Roger Wadeley Trophy’, for the Best Age Graded Performance, was won by Steven Clarke of Amazing Feet Running Club. Steven also won first place in the MV40 category with his time of 57 minutes 54 seconds. Other winners in the male veteran category were Martin Beare of Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers who won the MV50 category; Riverside Runners’ Patrick Ellerbeck who took the MV60 trophy and Norman Whitwood of harpenden Arrows who won the MV70 category. In the Ladies Veterans category, Bedford harriers’ Melissa Burrell won the LV35 category; Paula Dowling of Mablethorpe Running Club took the LV45 trophy; Bobbie Sauerzapf of Bungay Black Dog RC won the LV55 and Margaret Waddingham of Ware Joggers took the LV65 prize. In the team competitions it was a clean sweep for Leighton Buzzard AC, who took both the men’s and ladies’ team prizes. Werrington Joggers won the
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
477 runners finish annual Sandy 10
Erlensee Cup for the most runners with 56 members of their club entering the race. The two local winners – that is the fastest male and fastest female living within the SG18 and SG19 post code areas – were unattached runner Thomas hull and Ann Wood of Werrington Joggers. The club was honoured to have the Mayor of Sandy, Will Jackson, to present the awards and who made it a really memorable day for all our winners. Biggleswade AC would also like to extend a huge thank you to its sponsors including Marshalls of Sandy who provide the race t-shirts, The Barns Fitness Studios of Potton for the donation of prizes, to Tesco Sandy for providing the bananas and water, and to the volunteers from Sue Ryder St John’s who did a fantastic job in distributing race t- shirts to all 477 race finishers. We would also like to thank Bedfordshire Police and hearts Services who provided first aid services to the race for the first time and who we hope will join the team, once again, for next year’s Sandy 10. The club was absolutely delighted with the day having received many positive comments on social media from runners who Sandy 3K Fun Run had enjoyed the event: Proceeds from this year’s Sandy 10 will go to The overall winners of the 3K Sue Ryder St John’s hospice at Fun Run were Owen Wathen Moggerhanger. (Biggleswade AC) and Montana Edghill (Marshall Milton Keynes AC) – Owen finishing in an amazing time of 10 minutes 37 seconds and Montana just 11 secs behind him. The recipients of the age cate-
Fay the Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice Fund Raising Manager (right) with a team member (left).
gory prizes were Madison Ball (Biggleswade AC) and Jamie Clapson (Eynesbury Rovers) in the under 11s, Olivia Mead (Ramsey Road Runners) and Daniel hemming (Biggleswade AC) in the under 13 age category, and Montana Edghill (MMKAC) and Oliver hoxey-Smith (Biggleswade AC) in the under 15s.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 15
Cube square funding circle
A BEDFORDShIRE-based company has helped local academy schools win over £5 million in Government funding. In the latest round of Condition Improvement Fund (CiF) bids to the Education Funding Agency (EFA), Cube Building Consultancy based in Flitwick, secured six out of seven applications totalling £1.8 million, bringing the amount raised over the past three years to over £5 million. The Bedfordshire Schools that have benefitted from their latest bid winning services include, Alameda Middle School and The Firs Lower School in Ampthill, Brooklands Middle School and Gilbert Inglefiled Middle School in Leighton Buzzard, holywell Middle, Cranfiled and Wootton Upper School. Cube are a firm of chartered surveyors who have been providing a full complement of services to schools and businesses for over 12 years. It has achieved ground-breaking success for more than a dozen academy schools by providing bid, project and
contract management services. The bids have been secured for vital works such as new roofs, new heating and distribution systems and essential health and safety compliance works such as fire safety and lighting systems. “We have expertise in an area which is completely unchartered territory for many School Leadership Teams and School Business Managers. There are strategic decisions that need to be
collating data in support of their long term aims. We deliver a range of services that include Condition Improvement Fund (CiF) bid preparation and submissions. Cube’s CiF success rate currently stands at 75% against the industry average of 25%.” Working in partnership with specialist solicitors who have acted for many schools converting to academy status, the two companies provide strategic advice on the range of academy models most suited to each school and on built environment issues, whether during the transfer from the Local Authority or as a wider MAT evaluated before seeking access to arrangement. funding streams that can make a huge difference to a school’s balCube is staging an event for ance sheet. If they take the wrong School Business Managers, route early on they could miss out Governors and School Heads to on vital funds,” explained Key explain how to ensure that CiF Account Manager Tim Warneford bids and multi-academy appliat Cube, cations for funding have the best “Cube and our legal associates, chance of success. Anyone who combine strategic and operational would like to attend can contact advice in ensur-ing the school is tim warneford at tim@ fully appraised of their options cubebuildingconsultancy.com before strategically collecting and or call on 01525-722218.
16 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
£40,000 Eve Party for Angela’s Fund
ON Friday evening 8th April 2016 a party was held in memory of Angela Butcher to celebrate another milestone – Angela’s Research Fund at The Eve Appeal now stands at an impressive £40,000, with fundraising ongoing in the hope of extending the approved 15 months of small cell ovarian cancer research to a full five year research project into this extremely rare and aggressive disease. Inspired by Angela, family and friends continually take every opportunity to boost funds in many diverse ways and in August, a family member Tom Gordon, will attempt all three iconic cycle climbs to the summit of Mount Ventoux, South of France, in
one day, in the aim of joining the Cingles De Ventoux Club to commemorate his achievement and add his name to the small number who have ever made it. With other sponsorships on the go this year and events planned, alongside continual collections of five pences pieces and unwanted clothes and items for sale, The Butcher family have their eyes firmly fixed on the next big milestone and the challenge is on to reach this whilst they have the support of researchers and research facilities. If you would like to support Angela’s Fund please call Linda on 07730 319209 or message Mark James Butcher on facebook.
Friends of Sandy Christmas Lights
WhILST we may be waiting hopefully for warm summer days one small group is already planning ahead for next Christmas. The Sandy Christmas Lights switch-on event will take place on Sunday December 4th and we would like this year’s event to be even better than the past two years which attracted really large crowds. To achieve this we need as many community volunteers as possible both to help with the planning of the day and with all kinds of tasks on the day itself. Big public events need a strong team to deliver something worthwhile and spread the workload. The Lights switch-on has become the largest festive, public event in the area and we want to hold on to that reputation. We have about half a dozen evening meetings in all and rely on individuals with particular skills and interests to get -jobs done in their own time. Please come and join us. There is a real sense of satisfaction when the day goes well. For more details please contact Max hill 0n 01767 681469.(amaxhill@outlook.com) or the Council offices on 681491.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 17
Raising money for College’s quality is higher Sue Ryder
“hAVING run the Marathon this year I still hope to raise £10,000 to split between Sue Ryder St John’s hospice in Moggerhanger, a place that I know is very close to the hearts of many in NE Bedfordshire and beyond, and with Combat Stress who I have got to know through my Ministerial work in the mental health field, who do fantastic work with our veterans. “I know many people will already have charities that they support both individually and corporately, but I am spreading the word as far as I can through NE Bedfordshire and beyond and if anyone could possibly consider supporting me or suggesting it to any of your contacts, I would be most grateful. You can sponsor me online at: www.virginmoneygiving.com/ AlistairBurtMP-NEBeds or by contacting my office on 0207 219 8132 or email: alistair. burt.mp@parliament.uk The online giving enables the reclaim of Gift Aid on your donation if you're a UK tax payer. Virgin Money Giving will
ThE Quality Assurance Agency for higher Education (QAA) has confirmed the quality and standards of provision at Bedford College, including Shuttleworth College, following its review in January 2016. Shuttleworth Director Mike Johnston has welcomed the news: “We believe our range of landbased learning in developing higher Level courses provides valuable support to rural industries and employers.” A team of QAA reviewers visited the college and judged that its academic standards, the quality and enhancement of its student learning opportunities, and the quality of information about its learning opportunities all meet UK expectations. The review identifies a number of examples of good practice. These include: l the strategic and market-led approach to the development of the provision to meet the needs of local employers and students l the wide range of opportunities to work with employers to enhance student learning. Emma Lowe, Director of Quality, Performance and Standards at Bedford College, said: “It is very rewarding to see it pass this on in full to the charity, acknowledged that Bedford making your donation go even College is recognised by businesses and professionals for our work further.”
in ensuring students have a clear line of sight to jobs through our delivery of higher Education. “Bedford College offers progression for 16-year-olds into higher Education, and we are glad to have our work in this area highlighted and endorsed by experts in education.” QAA’s higher Education Reviews are carried out by experts from other universities and colleges. Every review team includes a student reviewer, because QAA believes that students should be partners in the quality assurance of their education.
Mike Johnston Director of Shuttleworth College.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
18 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
GARDENING – MAY
EVERY year it happens, but as soon as the Masters Golf Championship starts, I get questions on how Azaleas can be grown to look like they do at Augusta National, arguably the most beautiful gold course in the world. This year was no exception so here goes. Azalea’s like Ericaceous conditions so if you want amazing blooms, as always, one must start with the soil. At its simplest, soil is either alkaline or it is acid; if it is the latter, it is called Ericaceous and plants that need this type are amongst others, Rhododendrons, Camelias and Azaleas. So, want ericaceous plants but don’t have the appropriate conditions in your garden? Either dig a large hole, around twice the size of the plant that’s going in, fill with Ericaceous compost,
add the plant, then mulch with more Ericaceous compost on top. A regular application of liquid Ericaceous feed is also a good idea. Simply follow the instructions on the bottle. Or, get yourself a large pot and do likewise with it. In both instances, it is necessary to keep plants topped up with Ericaceous and I like to apply a generous mulch a couple of times a year. The other thing that one needs to bear in mind is if the plants are dry when they are forming buds, the buds will be poor quality and in short, so will the flowers. And always remember: plants in pots dry out a lot quicker than if they are in the ground so a regular watering regime is essential. Do all this, and your garden still might not look like Augusta but at least your Ericaceous plants will be happy.
Of course, the other thing that makes the Masters look so picturesque is the grass and now is also a good time to get to work on the lawn. A single weed and feed dressing once a year is far more beneficial to grass and the environment than regular fertilizing throughout the summer months which makes grass grow ‘soft’ which bring about diseases and other problems. Obviously, a consequence of increasing the fertility of the soil by adding fertilizer is that one makes it even easier for weeds to germinate and many lawns would benefit from far less fertilizer than even more! With smallish laws, get yourself a pointed hand trowel and simply dig out ribwort, dandelion and other nare do wells. Then, with an already prepared bucket of sieved top soil mixed with a
We clean ovens using non-caustic, We clean products ovens usinginnon-caustic, non-toxic your home. non-toxic products in your home.
Ovens • Ranges • Hobs • Extractors • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept) AgasOvens • Ranges • Hobs • Extractors Agas • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept) Fridges • Freezers • Dishwashers Fridges • Freezers • Dishwashers
Single oven ........................................£45 Oven ..................................... £26.00 DoubleSingle oven .......................................£55 Grill ................................................. £7.00 Hobs ............................................... £12.00 Hobs ....................................................£15 Shelves/Racks ................................. £1.50 each Extractors ....................................... £12.00 Extractors & replacement filter...........£15 Microwaves ..................................... £15.00 Bulbs................................................£3.50 Agas and Ranges priced accordingly
Agas and Ranges priced accordingly
Tel: 260188 Tel:01767 01767 260188
or contact James: 07812 666081 email: jstone@ovenmen.com
email: ovenmen@live.co.uk parent company est. 1998
GARY BERRIDGE
Plastering and general maintenance INCLUDING:
● UPVC doors and windows ● Facias and guttering ● Tiling ● Free estimates ● Painting & decorating Call: pat on 07724 905406 pat@rosettapublishing.com
generous amount of good quality, grass seed simply pour into the gap, firm with the foot and water. In around 10 days new growth will appear. The answer to last month’s just for fun question is, identify ground elder growing in your garden; what do you do with it? It is highly invasive so needs to be pulled or dug out whenever it can be seen, removing everything, and if done regularly enough, and over a period of time, it can be controlled. The other option, is that it can actually be eaten! This month’s question, why is Ericaceous compost so called? As usual, please contact me with any gardening tasks or queries you may have, lawndocgardens@aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855.
Welcome to the Nearly New Shop
OvenIT’S Cleaning! - It’sJOB a dirty A DIRTY – job! Whyclean do it yourself? so why it yourself
You can advertise here for less than one pound a day
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Tel: 01767 316485 07582 485155
NEARLY New Shop has been based in Moggerhanger for over 20 years, becoming a firm favourite for local bargain hunters. Keen shoppers can purchase pre-loved clothing for men, women and children, books, DVDs, bric-a-brac, and computer games, and some great one-off jewellery pieces. They have fashion for all shapes and tastes, so whether you’re looking for something to wow at a wedding, or on the hunt for a new wardrobe, pop in to find that perfect item. They also have our £1 rails so you can treat yourself to a whole new outfit for less than £5. The new changing and display areas mean that you get that boutique experience along with great bargains. Theshop is open Monday – Friday 10am – 3pm and Saturday 10am -1pm. Why not visit their on-site shop or try our monthly sale (first Saturday of each month) or our clearance sale (third Saturday of each month). Find out more: Email: nearlynewshop @suerydercare.org, call 01767 642 433 or visit us at St John’s hospice, St John’s Road, Moggerhanger, Bedford, MK44 3RJ.
Ivel Sprinter Volunteer Bus Service
we ProviDe a hail and ride timetabled bus service with volunteer drivers, available to all, covering Biggleswade and surrounding villages to Biggleswade Market Square, Sainsburys, Cambridge, St Neots, Sandy and Potton. we always require more volunteer drivers to cover our rosters-commitment is only one morning a month - you require a D1 on your licence. interested in helping? Contact us on 01767 317103. For a timetable, see the driver, look us up at www.ivelsprinter. org.uk or e mail peter@24foxglove.co.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 19
Big Birdwatch sees increase in garden birds ThE mild winter has seen the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch record an increase in the sightings of smaller garden birds in the county In Bedfordshire, the house sparrow remains the most spotted garden bird, with starlings and blue tits rounding off the top three Further down in the rankings, small garden birds including coat tit, greenfinch, goldfinch and long tailed tits benefitted from warmer weather in the county More than 519,000 people across the UK took part in the 2016 RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch counting a bumper 8,262,662 birds Nearly 5,000 people across Bedfordshire joined in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey turning their eyes to the garden to watch and count birds during the 37th RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch – witnessing some exciting and interesting changes among our most popular garden birds. Residents throughout Bedfordshire joined in excess of half-a-million people across the UK, who together counted over 8 million birds during the wildlife survey. In Bedfordshire, house sparrows took the top spot again, with an average of six being seen in 74% of gardens across the county during the survey. Blackbirds came in second and blue tits returned to take their place amongst the top three after dropping to fourth place last year. Across the county, other small birds, such as great tits and long tailed tits were seen to fly up the charts in comparison to 2015 results, which the RSPB believe is down to the birds benefitting from the mild months leading up to January’s Birdwatch. In the UK wide figures, the tiny long-tailed tit has flown into the Big Garden Birdwatch top 10 – the first time in eight years – after the average number seen visiting gardens across the UK increased this year by 44 per cent. Small, insect-eating birds like long- tailed tits are particularly susceptible to the cold as the food they rely on is hard to come by in frosts and snow so milder conditions have con-
“The increase in numbers of sightings of these smaller garden birds highlights the impact that a well stocked bird feeder can have on some species”
tributed to a higher survival rate. Dr Daniel hayhow, RSPB Conservation Scientist, said: “This year’s survey was another brilliant year for the Big Garden Birdwatch. More than half-a-million people took part counting a bumper 8.2 million birds, proving us with valuable data which helps to build a better picture of how our garden birds are doing. “The weather can have a varied effect on different groups of birds in terms of behaviour and habitats used. The significant increase in long-tailed tit sightings, along with other smaller garden birds, highlights the impact that mild weather conditions can have on garden birds. The warmer temperatures have made it easier to find food, like insects, which in previous colder winters would have been harder to come by because of frosts and snow.” In recent years long-tailed tits, and other smaller birds, have adapted to feeding on seeds and peanuts at bird tables or from hanging feeders. Often because of the colder temperatures birds struggle to find foods in the wider countryside so have become more reliant on garden feeders. This has had a dramatic effect on the number of these birds visiting our gardens in search of food and drink – since 2006 the average number of long-tailed tits seen in
UK gardens has increased by 52 per cent, while great tit numbers have gone up by 13 per cent and coal tit by 9 per cent. Dr hayhow added: “The increase in numbers of sightings of these smaller garden birds highlights the impact that a well stocked bird feeder can have on some species. Long-tailed tits only started using garden feeders in recent years, and now more people are spotting them in their gardens as this behaviour develops.” Despite this boost in numbers many other of our garden favourites are struggling. Sightings of well known species such as starlings and blackbirds have experienced another drop during the Big Garden Birdwatch this year. This decline continues a trend that has seen the number of both species visiting gardens decline by 81 and 30 per cent retrospectively since the first Birdwatch in 1979. Ben Andrew, RSPB Wildlife Advisor, added: “A lot of our favourite garden birds are struggling and are in desperate need of our help. Gardens or outdoor spaces are an invaluable resource for many species – they can provide a safe habitat and enough food and water to survive – which are likely to have a significant effect on their populations.” The same trends have been spotted in the parallel event, Big Schools’ Birdwatch, which continued to break records with more schools and children taking part than ever before. The UK-wide survey of birds in schools had almost 100,000 school child spending an hour in nature counting birds. Blackbird remained the most common playground visitor for the eighth year in a row. The top three was rounded off by starling and house sparrow. Big Garden Birdwatch and Big Schools’ Birdwatch are a part of the RSPB’s Giving Nature a home campaign, aimed at tackling the housing crisis facing the UK’s threatened wildlife. The charity is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in their gardens or outdoor space – whether it’s putting up a nest box for birds, creating a pond for frogs or building a home for hedgehogs.
Helping more people in the community
ST JOhN’S hospice have launched their hospice at home Service and their Befriender Service with the support of Sue Ryder’s national charity partner Morrisons. With this, they have expanded their services within the community and can reach more people. The service has been developed with their patients in mind, as they know many people prefer to have care at home. Their skilled carers can provide short term help with personal care, including feeding and drinking, and offer general
advice and support to help manage symptoms. Maria King, hospice at home co-ordinator said: “When a patient makes the choice to be cared for at home, they and their families want peace of mind. We make sure they are supported and cared for in a calm and secure environment.” Their Partnership for Excellence in Palliative Support (PEPS) service is a partnership of 15 organisations from the health, social care and voluntary sectors. They support patients with conditions such as motor neurone dis-
ease, dementia, kidney disease, heart failure and respiratory diseases. The service provides patients and their families with 24-hour support and advice from qualified nurses who have access to current care information. This service helps patients to be supported in a way that’s personalised to their needs. Tracey haddock, head of Community Services for the PEPS team, said: “In the past four years we’ve had over 5000 referrals to the service and currently support
over 150 patients a month to stay in their own homes. Patients feel reassured that there is a nurse that can support them and their family 24 hours a day.” The service is available to all patients who are registered with a Bedfordshire GP and have been identified as being in the last year of life. They accept referrals from patients, families, carers and health and social care professionals. For more information about the service or to refer a patient call: 01767 641 349 or Email: Bedfordshire.peps@nhs.net
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
20 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
AROUND THE CLUBS
T
Biggleswade & District Gardening Club Spring Show
hE Biggleswade & District Gardening Club 36th Spring Show took place at the Weatherley Centre on Sunday 3rd April. In spite of the difficult weather the gardeners had experienced this year there was a wonderful presentation of daffodils, bulbs, cultivars, alpine pans, flowers and a photographic competition and display. This year saw the introduction of two classes especially for the Pupils of Stratton Upper School and it was very pleasing that many pupils had made an effort to enter. There was also a fantastic show of flower arrangements from the Biggleswade Flower Arranging Society with the clever use of vegetables and fruit. Once again the show was supported by the hardy Plant Society who ran a plant and hand tool stall and also the Bedfordshire Alpine Garden Society where not only did they enter the Alpine Classes but they exhibited a wonderful display of colourful gardens and plants for sale. Visitors and Members had the opportunity to enjoy the homemade cakes, browse the bookstall and catch up with old
friends. The Chairman actually met up with a friend last seen in 1948 some 68 years ago and they recognised each other too. There were many prizes won in the raffle where all were vying for the tree peony. The trophies were handed out by the chairman, Tony Gray, at the close of the show. he thanked the judges and all those who had helped to make the show such a good occasion with a special mention to the Show Secretary, David hockley, who had been unable to attend but who had worked extremely hard with the organisation during the past year. he was very grateful for the support received from the Bedfordshire Alpine Garden Society, the Biggleswade Flower Arranging Society and the hardy Plant Society.
C
Biggleswade Ivel Evening Townswomen Guild
hAIRMAN Chris Davies welcomed members to the Biggleswade Ivel Evening Townswomens Guild meeting on Monday, April 11. Birthday greeting were given to Alison Careless, Yvonne Crane, Chris Davies, Jackie harris, Pam Peacock and Pauline
Did you know that relaxation can actually improve your health?
That’s right. Relaxation is good for your mind and body. Over the past decades, large amounts of research on relaxation have been compiled. Researchers found that relaxation can help prevent many diseases and make you feel better in general. When you relax you gain more energy and achieve better sleep patterns. Regular relaxation is beneficial for the immune system. It has been found that after one month of regular relaxation a person can increase their natural killer cells and antibody levels. The benefits of relaxation are unlimited. Many doctors are now just realising that relaxation has so many incredible health benefits and now many of them see the difference in their patients. As part of my programmes, I regularly include relaxation as part of the treatment for my clients. If you didn’t know the benefits of relaxation, you’re not alone. Many people aren’t aware stress and tension have such a harmful effect on their health. And to top it off, these very same people usually have a hard time letting themselves just relax. This is one of the many reasons hypnosis is so beneficial. Hypnosis can greatly improve your ability to relax in a gentle and enjoyable way. Relaxation enables you to become more productive in your thinking, and ensure greater efficiency and effectiveness. Put the day behind you and relax! Contact me, to provide a bespoke relaxation programme to improve your health. Dr Sue Peacock, Consultant Health Psychologist Well –aHead – ‘providing psychological health solutions’ Email: info@well-ahead.com Tel: 0759 8960 531 Website: www.well-ahead.com
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Presland. Tea helper for the month was Margaret Newberry. The mandates for the national annual general meeting will appear in the next issue of the Townswomen and members were asked to read them in order that they can be discussed at the May meeting. Last month’s walk commenced in Ashwell and we received a very warm welcome at the Bushel and Strike for our lunch. The next walk will be Thursday, May 5 meeting at Gamlingay Woods at 10.45am followed by lunch at the garden centre. There is an outing to the flower festival and Springfields shopping on April 27. The speaker for the evening Alan Porter gave a very interesting and amusing talk about his life as a general practice auctioneer. he started off by explaining the definition of an auction. An auctioneer had to have integrity and be firm, fair, recognise the value of an item, be speedy, have humour and be observant. he explained how auctions worked and what is sold illustrating his talk with amusing anecdotes. The most unusual items he had sold was a second hand coffin and a Methodist Chapel. The worst auction he attended was for the sale of a house and not one person turned up. Pauline Dover gave the vote of thanks. Raffle winners were Maureen harding, Janet Millard and Anne Jones. The winners of the competition for an item beginning with M were Val Dent with a mask, Maureen Carter – minion and Sheila Mills – marmite. The next meeting will be on May 9 when Brenda harley will give a talk entitled “how I became a real sew and sew”. The competition will be for something beginning with N. The guild meets on the second Monday of the month 7.30 pm at the Weatherley Centre new members and visitors are very welcome.
T
hE Chairman, Ann Taylor, welcomed members to their meeting on Tuesday April 12 at Biggleswade Academy, holmemead. She thanked Brian Tobin for organising the social afternoon with ‘honest John’ which had proved to be a form of dominoes and was great fun. All the members had a very enjoyable afternoon. The secretary had sent several notices from hQ. There were details concerning National Workshops,
Ivel Valley U3A
U3A Royal Society ‘Staying Sharp’ Lecture, the history of Place delivery team asking for volunteers for research, East of England regional Conference, U3A Spring Concert ‘Mozart Requiem’, the Elizabethan Experience at the Globe, Birmingham International Concert – The Brant International Piano Competition Final and Swan Lake at the London Coliseum. The art group will be meeting on Tuesday 3rd May at Asda Meeting Room when the subject will be ‘Animals’. Any one is welcome to attend as there is plenty of room. Book group 1 will meet on Monday 9th May at Jean William’s house. Book Group 2 will be meeting on Friday 13th May at Jean’s house. The Sunday Lunch Club will meet at the Wheatsheaf, Tempsford on 15th May meeting at 12 noon. Names must be given to Sue Oldroyd. Chris Davies has organised an outing to Milton Keynes Theatre to see ‘Guys & Dolls’ on 16th June. Ann introduced the speaker for the afternoon, Paul heley, who was to talk about ‘Looking for Polar Bears’. Paul was very stressed as his satnav had been unable to cope with the diversions in town. he explained that his talk was about a holiday he and his wife had taken to Spitzbergen. he liked the idea of a holiday that had snow and ice with breath-taking scenery and absolute silence. he showed the members how far north they had to travel and spoke of his encounter with the mother of the Crown princess where they swopped stories about their grandchildren. The next day they moved onto their ship for the trek, The Quest. It was a small ship with just 50 passengers and had reinforced bows for ice breaking. There was no planned itinerary due to the variations of the weather and the fluctuations of the ice. They intended circling the island but this was impossible due to the thickness of the ice so they retraced their route where they were able to enter many small bays and fiords due to the ship’s size. They had seen many varieties of birds, artic foxes, seals, walruses and finally polar bears. The trees are only two inches high on Spitzbergen but there was a great deal of driftwood all over the beaches that had floated from Northern Siberia Ruth Loin gave the vote of thanks for a most interesting and informative talk.
Club secretaries are reminded that the deadline for this column is the 18th of the month
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 21
TV gardeners praise Shuttleworth College
AN eNtry in the young Gardeners of the year competition by Shuttleworth Colege students has been praised by tv gardeners Alan titchmarsh and David Domoney. Alan said the Moroccan-theme showed the creativity of design in gardening and David continued the praise. Shuttleworth took a silver prize in the contest, which was staged at the ideal Home Show at olympic, London. the garden was featured on itv and an interview can be seen on youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= 2g5wrtp9cvk People can sign up for a range of courses related to horticulture, garden design and estate management at Shuttleworth College. these range from one day sessions to fulltime royal Horticultural Society courses. www.bedford.ac.uk
A big thank you
BOWLS
Biggleswade trio win the HLIBA County Fours
ThREE ladies who bowl for Biggleswade Town Bowls Club have had success in the hertfordshire Ladies Indoor Bowling Association County Finals. Brenda hollands, Jacqui Bryant and Jenny Ralph who all bowl outdoors at Biggleswade, but play for Riverain Indoor Bowls Club in hitchin during the winter months enjoyed a busy time at the finals. The hLIBA held their county finals at the President’s Club in harpenden at the end of March. hollands, Bryant and Ralph along with team mate Joan Welch won the County Fours beating a team from Cheshunt by 5 shots. The trio were unable to retain their crown of 2015 Triples
ON March 26, 2016, it was Epilepsy Awareness Day - Purple Day, when people can make awareness of the illness and raise money to help run Epilepsy Charities. As I have been suffering from this invisible illness since I was seven years old, my wife and I decided to have a coffee morning to raise money for Epilepsy Society. We held a raffle at our home also and a few local businesses in
Champions, losing on the extra end to a rival triple from their own club. Ralph and Welch were also runners up in the pairs, once again beaten by a pair from Riverain. They are all now looking forward to the summer season of bowls at Biggleswade Town. Biggleswade Town Bowls Club welcomes new members of any age and ability. Coaching sessions for new bowlers will take place at the club, Drove Road on Saturday 30 April, 07 May and 14 May at 10.00am. Further information can be obtained from the website http://www.biggleswadetownbowlsclub.bravesites.com or by phoning Jackie (Ladies Secretary) on 07734459835 or Terry Butt (Club Secretary) on 07739332971
Biggleswade and Tempsford donated raffle prizes, which was much appreciated. My son Matthew organised the refreshments and as people arrived, he took their orders and they helped themselves to cake of their choice. We raised £182.00, altogether with the support of our friends and family. We would like to thank everyone that came and donated money. Brenda Hollands, Jackie Bryant, Joan Welch, Jenny Ralph Riverain IBC are Anne, Mark & Matthew Shaw the HLIBA Fours Champions and Triples and Pairs Runners up 2016.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
22 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
YOUR LOCAL CLEANING COMPANY
HOMEBRIGHT Fully vetted and insured cleaners at affordable rates
■ Weekly house cleans ■ One off spring cleans ■ Ironing service
Call Angela for a FREE quote
Office 01767 222141 Mob 07807 452974 www.homebrightcleaners.co.uk CALDECOTE COUNSELLING Professional Confidential Counselling Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Relationship and Family Issues, Addiction, Difficult Feelings, Confusing Intrusive Thoughts? COUNSELLING CAN HELP Call/text Julie 07747 783181 www.caldecotecounselling.co.uk
ARE YOU A PROMOTER? PLEASE NOTE We publish EVERY MONTH So give us a call to discuss our rates on 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
FOOTBALL BIGGLESWADE TOWN – by Mike Draxler
One for sorrow!
I
DorCHeSter towN . . . . . . . .0 BiGGLeSwADe towN . . . . . . .1
N the words of the old nursery rhyme our win at Dorchester certainly caused some upset in the Dorset camp. The game was always destined to be close only two points separated the teams league position and in three previous attempts the Magpies have failed to record a win or draw. Yesterday extended that to four as the Waders ran out victors again. The afternoon was cold and very wet on the pitch but us Wader faithful sat high up in the stands to avoid what was at times a torrential downpour. Still cold and not much on the pitch to warm us. As the season draws to its climax games like this will become commonplace as each team is eliminated from play-off glory. Although still mathematically possible, we are depending on others to slip up badly to work our way into the top five. The only goal of the game came on 30 minutes as Dorchester defender Chris Dillon handled the ball in the area after a Mark Coulson free kick swung in from the right. Tony Burnett stood tall and with no nerves to stroke the ball past A diving Shane Murphy who would have stopped it easily if he had only gone the right way. Noses in front Biggleswade wanted to keep it that way and the play over the next 60 minutes showed strength a depth of character and the not wanting the long journey home empty handed. Dorchester had their moments albeit brief. Jake Smeeton had our man in action from a free kick but that was on 42 and Dorchester’s clearest chance to date. In the second 45 although showing purpose the Magpies never really got close enough to trouble our man. Ian Rees had the ball hitting the opposition post on74 and it was only in the last five that Dorchester forced numerous corners but unable to breach that well drilled defence. On the day we had three captains as Craig Daniel had to go off and the armband to Ian Rees who in turn was injured passing the band to Mark Coulson. Coach Rory Prendergast got the biggest cheer as our new coach recorded his first win. Well done Rory. A successful day out.
O
BiGGLeSwADe towN . . . . . . .2 HiStoN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 N PAPER… This should have been a match easily won with histon sitting at the wrong end of the table and results not going their way, Biggleswade should have come out winners with ease. But luck was not with us and chances went a begging with a series of wanting too much time or mis-kicks. Connor Vincent the unluckiest of the boys in green hit the bar twice in the opening period, the day
was going to be difficult. It took something special from Evan Key until recently at histon. Evan received the ball in the area turned and lobbed the keeper from the edge of the box on 13. At the other end Sam Ives who was at the Waders several seasons ago placed a shot just inside the post to level up the scores on29 minutes. Frustrating chances were created, frustrating to the players and spectators alike. On 40, that man Evan Key was free outside the box and his rifled shot beat the keeper to restore the lead at the break. The second 45 saw histon with the adrenalin flowing pushing the Waders back for long periods. Chances were at a premium and neither side created much to trouble the keepers. A series of substitutions by both sides was unable to break the game up and create no more opportunities in the final 15 minutes. Although Biggleswade ran out winners it was a lot tougher than the form book predicted. Six points over the weekend, a maximum and all that could be asked. Football fortunately is not a game of “ifs” it is who scores the most is the winner and the Waders did it twice in 48 hours.
W
BiGGLeSwADe towN . . . .2 kiNGS LyNN . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
ITh the waders playing the football it was no surprise for them to take an early lead. After seven minutes a corner in from the left was headed on by Evan Key to Craig Daniel who spun 180 to pump the ball home. Biggleswade continued with the fast flowing football until the unfortunate penalty decision of the 14th minute. Ball to hand, hand to ball depended on your colours but Michael Clunnan with a well taken penalty levelled the score. Biggleswade confused by the decision lost their rhythm as Kings Lynn rampaged a deflated defence. Lynn No. 10 John Sands scored twice in three minutes. his first on 20 was a simple conversion from a cross from the left from Michael Clunnan. the second came from a header, Clunnan the supplier again as Biggleswade looked on confused and dazed. No further score from the first half and Biggleswade certainly needed the break to re-group. With more purpose the Waders started brightly with some entertaining football from Inih Effiong, Nick Freeman and Tony Burnett. With the tails up Lynn administered another blow as Toby hilliard powered home from 18 yards on 52. Biggleswade upped the game and started to press Kings Lynn into their own half for long periods. Nick Freeman on a solo run shot past the keeper setting up an interesting last 30 minutes. Biggleswade tried but opportunities were being
wasted trying to make sure of the goal rather than take a chance. Certainly the Waders looked the more likely as Lynn were happy to see the clock down employing the usual tactics. With no further score it was a disappointing afternoon that hinged on one dubious decision.
You can’t help but love him
I
BiGGLeSwADe towN . . . . . . .3 HitCHiN towN . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 RRESISTIBLE and unplayable as one of the Wader’s favourite sons returned wearing a hitchin shirt. Its not the first return visit, last season a brace, this, a hattrick. The game started with a carnival atmosphere with hitchin jockeying for an advantageous play-off place and Biggleswade playing for pride against the local rivals, always so difficult to beat. It all went so well for the first 12 with both sides feeling their way if a touch nervously. Disaster struck as Robbie Burns free on the back stick headed the ball back for Brett Donnelly, scoring with his head from close range. 15 minutes on and the 3 amigos combined, Burnett, Vincent and Freeman to set up a simple passing movement through the assembled hitchin defence with Freeman finishing in style. Game on.36 minutes and following a corner and a Donnelly miss, the ball saved by our man only for the ricochet to fall to Josh Bickerstaff who made no mistake. hitchin jubilant while the wind was taken out of the Wader sails. half time and a much needed break from the thrills and spills. Out for the second period, Manager Nunn hoping to have worked some magic with Biggleswade going close from York and hoyte in the opening 5. At the other end Robbie Burns was making no mistakes as he buried a shot past our man. Donnelly B. was back with another on 60 as the cheeky forward nicked and kicked the ball off a defenders toe to make it 1-4. Back at the other end sloppy defending from a corner saw Vincent cut the deficit with the ball easily bundled over the line. hitchin never sat back, Alasan Ann powered forward and his lifted pass over Brett Donnelly’s shoulder and dropping onto his preferred foot, the volley flying into the net. Biggleswade made changes but were getting no change out of the canaries. Late on Ian Rees scored another consolation goal to make the score a little more respectable. In my reports only one other player from the opposition has ever been named man of the match, but I have no hesitation in making it two with Brett Donnelly. It was a great match, the atmosphere electric as both sides gave it all.
Club secretaries are reminded that the deadline for this column is the 18th of the month
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
FOOTBALL BIGGLESWADE UNITED
witH all football matters now resolved it’s party time at Biggleswade United as we celebrate our season with the club’s annual awards night to be held on thursday May 5 at George’s Hall Bar and Grill. this year it promises to be bigger and better than ever with special guests the Chelsea and Bosnia goalkeeper, Asmir Begovic and Sky Sports presenter, kate Abdo who will be presenting our Player of the year award in an evening to be hosted by the club’s director of football and Sky Spanish football pundit, Guillem Balagué there will also be an auction where among the items to go under the hammer will be Barcelona shirts singed by Xavi Hernandez and Leo Messi, a real Madrid shirt signed by Gareth Bale and copy of
Guillem Balague’s authoritative biography on Pep Guardiola, ‘Another way of winning’ signed by both Pep and the author. there are about 100 tickets available to the general public on a first come, first served basis at a cost of £15 to include a buffet meal and the first drink. these can be obtained from the venue or direct from the club at Second Meadow. we – weather permitting – finished our league programme and at the end of last month hoping to continue our recent return to form following a couple of blips earlier in the month. Hopefully we managed to finish on a high and in the process do enough to guarantee the highest ever finishing league position in the club’s history.
Magazine and leaflet distributors wanted If you are interested please text: Delivery jobs to 07503 359745 Please include your name, address and telephone number and email YOUR FREE COPY
TIN BULLE 16 MAY 20
BEESTON SANDY,
ON E EDITI ESWAD & BIGGL
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 23
Strong start for the start of the championship
BEN Tuck kicked off his Caterham Supersport championship campaign at the iconic Brands hatch Indy circuit recently, coming away having claimed a front row slot on the grid in Race 1 and creditable fifth and sixth place finishes. Sporting his old karting number #62, Ben took his PT Motorsport run car straight into the sharp end of the highly competitive and well respected Championship when he qualified second in Race 1 out of a record 44 strong grid in difficult conditions after holding pole for most of his group’s session. As the rain stopped, Race 1 promised plenty of action in the tricky and constantly changing conditions on a drying track. Away from the lights, Ben slotted in behind the leader as the chasing pack battled for the remaining positions. Famous for close racing, the Caterham’s produced some epic battles and after a safety car period, Ben held onto second position until lap seven when contact through McLaren punted him into fourth place with suspension damage on the left side of his car. Ben was then in damage limitation mode, caught up in the dogfight chasing the leaders. Ben briefly snatched a podium slot for three laps mid-race, before the damage began to harm his exit onto the straights and his opponents were able to draft past, dropping him to fifh by the flag. Race 2 on Sunday was run in
much improved weather and held the promise of more consistent and predictable track conditions. Determined to make up for the compromised finish of the day before, Ben fought his way up to fourth place by lap 6. Embroiled in the six car pack fighting over third and fourth places, Ben worked hard but gradually slipped down the order stabilising in sixth until the finish. “It’s a big learning curve getting to know how the tyres handle over a race distance and also learning the driving styles of the other drivers. It’s fierce but so were Mazda’s, but the draft is much stronger, meaning that it’s much harder to break away without working together.” Ben commented. “I’m not sure if we had a problem with the car or if I just overcooked the tyres, but the pace just went out of it when I got to 4th. We’ll go through the data and have a look. We’ve still got a lot to learn but I’m confident that we can have front running pace for the next round.” For the team, the result hinted at what is possible from Ben’s debut in Caterhams. PT Motorsports team owner, ex-Superlight racer Ian Payne said “Ben’s been super strong in testing and he’s got to grips with the car quickly and been very fast and consistent. he’s learning fast and to have a front row qualifying result and a top five and a top ten is a superb debut. As he gets more comfortable with the race craft aspect he’s only going to move forward.”
This is just one of the 64,000 magazines we deliver in Bedfordshire The monthly Bulletin Series and Kempston Calling are a cost-effective method of reaching your potential customers in this affluent region. Call Patricia on 07724 905406 to get the up-to-date advertising rates or email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
24 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
1. Goodbyes, hellos and a reshuffle on the Society’s committee. Our new Society year began on 1 April and at our AGM on 4 April the Committee for 2016-17 was voted in. We were sorry to say goodbye to our retiring Secretary and Treasurer duo, Pam and David Collinson, who have been actively involved in all activities and events for the past three years, and to committee member Linda howlett, retiring also after three years’ service. They will be greatly missed. Fortunately we now have a new Secretary, since our member Stephanie Smith offered to take on the job only days before the AGM and was voted in on 4 April. And the position of Treasurer has been taken up by Roy Chadwick who previously served as our Chairman for the past five years. Roy will still fulfill many of the tasks he undertook previously but readers should note that publication sales will now be handled by Paul Artiss, who was re-elected to the Committee on 4 April. Paul’s contact details for book orders will appear each month in the Publications section of our news page. We welcome as our new Chairman Sandra Ransom who now wears two hats, since she continues also as Archivist. Ian Bond remains as Vice Chairman, and Jane Dale as Editor, and we are pleased to announce that David Skinner, who was co-opted onto the Committee last September, was formally adopted at this AGM. 2. The Society thanks the Biggleswade Town Council for its continued support this year in the form of a generous grant to help with the costs of our major project researching the town’s First World War servicemen. 3. Thinking of joining the Society? Our new membership year has only just begun, so now would be a good time to join to get the best value from the annual subscription. Find out how to become a member in the Membership section on this page. 4. A reminder. Due to the May Day Bank holiday the Society’s next meeting with a speaker will be on the second Monday of the month – 9 May. This will be the last indoor meeting before our summer programme of members-only evening visits begins. 5. Please note that this year the Society’s bookstall will not be appearing on the Biggleswade Saturday Market. Sales from the stall and visitors to it were disappointingly few last year so instead we shall seek to peddle our wares and meet the public at locally held summer and pre-Christmas fêtes and fairs. We shall inform readers in advance when and where to find us but, of course, our publications are available at any time by other means. See the Publications section on this page. 6. A chance for Bulletin readers to buy the DVD ‘Three Market Towns’, a 73-minute film exploring the past and present of the towns of Potton, Sandy and Biggleswade, which was given a private showing after our AGM. One member new to the area said she had learned more that evening than in the two months that she had lived here! The film, produced professionally in 2009 by Axiom Video Productions and presented by Pam Rhodes, known and loved for her work as presenter of the BBC TV series, ‘Songs of Praise’, was on sale at local outlets for some years after it first came out but is now difficult to come by. Our Treasurer Roy Chadwick has sourced some copies which we can offer to members and non-members for the price of £15 each, payable on ordering. Roy
ANNOUNCEMENTS
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
will deliver free of charge to Biggleswade addresses or can mail the DVD for an extra £1.00 per copy to cover postage and packing. Either bring your payment to Roy at the next Society meeting at Trinity Methodist Church (9 May) or post your cheque for the appropriate amount (made out to Biggleswade history Society) to: The 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. 7. Our next slot on the BigglesFM Thursday Breakfast Show will be 8.30 - 9.00 on 26 May. Tune in to 104.8 or go to www.bigglesfm.com and click on Listen Live.
1. We have no display in Biggleswade Library during May but there will be one in mid-June. Details in next month’s Bulletin. 2. On 6 April our Treasurer and Editor attended a photo shoot organised by the Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity to mark the installation in the Dan Albone picnic area beside the river Ivel of an almost life-size steel sculpture representing Dan driving his Ivel Agricultural Motor, the forerunner of the modern farm tractor which he invented in Biggleswade in 1902 and exported worldwide. This artwork is one of several commissioned for the Biggleswade Green Wheel. The sculpture, cut from a single sheet of steel alloy, is the work of artist Martin heron and is quite remarkable in its design in that it appears to be three-dimensional. Go and take a closer look at it and you will see what we mean! 3. On 10 April representatives from our Society attended the launch of the recently formed Old Warden history and heritage Society at the Village hall in Old Warden. Among the exhibits on display were small finds that had turned up on the site of Warden Abbey, a major Cistercian monastic complex outside the village which was founded in 1132 and demolished after the Dissolution of the Monasteries by henry VIII. Today hardly a trace of it is visible. The new society is keen to have an extensive geophysical survey of the site carried out, to gain a clearer picture of what was once there. We wish them every success in their projects.
EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
FROM THE ARCHIVES Accessions
In the past month we have gratefully received the following donations: - From Vic Brunt, copy of a Civil Defence letter about a Mosquito crash at Old Warden in 1944, and a 1987 information booklet: ‘A Museum Service for Mid Bedfordshire’. - From Neville Spriggs, a certificate for service in the home Guard 1942-44, and a signed letter from the Queen Mother concerning her visit to the 2nd Battalion of the Bedfordshire home Guard (July 1944). - From Gill Damen, 1945 day to day diary with handwritten entries, from the Biggleswade bookbinding factory (pre- Adams & harriason); also two printed timetables for Fleetway Coaches, stopping off at Biggleswade, with fare prices. Approximate date 1940-50 - From Jane Dale, display book of photos, press
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Biggleswade
cuttings, etc., documenting D-Day veterans Beard, Brunt & Richardson. Email Sandra: archivist@biggleswade history.org.uk with enquiries about the archives or WW1 project.
The Society has a wide range of publications relating to the history of Biggleswade and its people. Visit the website for a price list and descriptions of the books. Our books are on sale at meetings and generous discounts on all publications by BhS are available to members. Telephone enquiries and orders to: Paul Artiss (01767 666187). It may be possible to arrange to deliver orders to local addresses but ask Paul about postal charges if books are to be mailed. The 434-page special edition Dan Albone hardback book is available from the Editor at £20. Free local delivery or £5.00 by post.
PUBLICATIONS
We welcomed three new members in April. Bulletin readers wishing to join the Society may download an application form from our website (web address at the foot of this page) or simply turn up to our meeting on 9 May and ask to join at the desk. The membership subscription is £7.50 per person for the year to 31 March 2017 and this entitles the new member to free admission to meetings with speakers, and the Society’s big Newsletter packed with interesting items delivered free each month by email or by hand (or by post for a one-off extra payment of £6.00). Members also receive generous discounts on all BhS publications and a welcome pack containing a small gift of one of our publications.
MEMBERSHIP
The Society meets 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. Members will be informed in advance if there is an admission fee for these.
MEETINGS
LAST MEETING 04 Apr: 48 members attended the Annual General Meeting at Trinity Methodist Church. Doors opened early for membership renewals and refreshments before the AGM began at 8.00. Our President and longest serving member Ken Page conducted the business of the meeting in brisk fashion and in record time – seven minutes! he presented the President’s Award to Paul Artiss for his services to the Society during the year, in particular for his regular displays in Biggleswade Library but also for his work as one of the archive team. The members then enjoyed a showing of the film ‘Three Market Towns’ featuring Potton, Sandy and Biggleswade past and present.
PROGRAMME 09 May: ‘have I Got historical News for You’ – a talk by David Smith 06 Jun: Members only visit – The Panacea Museum, Bedford 04 Jul: Members only visit – The Station house, Potton, hosted by George howe 01 Aug: Members only guided walk -
For further information contact: Jane Dale 01767 650340, editor@biggleswadehistory.org.uk www.biggleswadehistory.org.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 25
History Society
The chicken thief convict
L
PART THREE OF FOUR
by Jane Dale
ASt month we learned that Mungo Park went to Portsmouth on 22 January 1805 to join the ship that would take him to the Gambia for his second expedition to the river Niger in Africa. our carpenter convict from Biggleswade, James Albone, had already served three years of his sentence and was still on a prison hulk in Portsmouth harbour awaiting transportation to Australia.
With Park were two companions who had agreed to become members of the expedition: his brother-in-law, Dr. Alexander Anderson, and George Scott, a young engraver who was to be his draftsman. The remainder of the party was yet to be chosen from the British garrison on the island of Gorée off the West African coast, where the ‘Crescent’ would call en route for the Gambia. There were some last-minute arrangements to be made before sailing, and it had occurred to Park that before leaving England he should recruit some carpenters for the vital task of building the river boats for the second stage of the exploration. Although he could count on the services of forty trained soldiers and he had permission to recruit black artificers on Gorée who might be willing to join him, there was no guarantee that skilled carpenters would volunteer. No Portsmouth carpenter would undertake at short notice to risk life and limb on a journey into the unknown when there was good work to be had in the naval dockyards so, where better to find willing volunteers than the convict hulks in the harbour! Accordingly, Park went next day on board the ‘Captivity’ hulk whose captain agreed to release on conditional pardons four convict carpenters, one of whom was our Biggleswade man, James Albone.
nnn
Who could blame the four convicts for accepting the offer? From where they were sitting, in a cold, damp, miserable hulk on the grey waters of Portsmouth harbour on a raw January day, Africa must have conjured in their minds a vision of paradise. here was a chance to leave behind their irons and the daily humiliation of their situation, a chance to prove themselves as val-
ued members of a team of free men engaged upon an historic venture, to earn their freedom and regain their self-respect, to embark upon the supreme adventure of their lives. Could their plight become any worse than it was already? To opt for two years of whatever awaited them in Africa, and the freedom to rejoin their families afterwards, must have seemed a worthwhile gamble. The alternative for James Albone was the certainty of four more relentlessly bleak years on this wretched hulk. Little did he know that, in accepting the pardon, he had just stepped from the frying pan into the fire! For the story from this point we must thank Mungo Park, whose journal of the first stages of the 1805 expedition to the Niger was sent back to Britain and published in 1815.
nnn
At daybreak on 31 January 1805 the ‘Crescent’ and her escort ship left Portsmouth. head winds and gales in the Bay of Biscay delayed them and it was not until 8 March that they landed at Porto Praya in the Portuguese Cape Verde islands. here Park spent valuable time haggling over the price of provisions and pack donkeys, of which he eventually bought 45 at an outrageously inflated price. Many of the beasts died or were crippled during the 450-mile journey to Gorée when heavy seas caused them to be tossed about in the hold of the ship. having reached Gorée by the end of March, stores for the garrison were unloaded and a garrison order was issued seeking volunteers for the Niger expedition. Of the 200 or so men of the Royal African Corps who made up the British garrison nearly all eagerly volunteered. The officers advised Park in his choice, and soon he had his military complement of 33 privates, a sergeant, a corporal and the young, tough and daring Lieutenant John Martyn as their commanding Officer. No doubt many of the soldiers volunteered for reasons similar to those that had motivated James Albone and the other convict carpenters; many of them had opted for service in Africa as an alternative to a severe flogging for misdemeanours in their original units. They were further tempted by the offer of double pay and a free discharge from the army at the end of the expedition.
Interestingly, not one of the Africans employed on the island volunteered; they were obviously aware of the dangers to be faced in the African interior! On 6 April the expedition, numbering 45 Europeans, including Park, sailed from Gorée on the ‘Crescent’ and on the following day entered the Gambia estuary and began the journey upriver. Their escort ship accompanied them as far as the small river port of Jillifree, or Juffure, as it is now known. This place has become internationally famous as the slave ‘factory’ from which the ancestor of Alex haley, immortalised in the author’s bestseller ‘Roots’ was shipped across the Atlantic into slavery some 200 years ago. The ‘Crescent’ continued on to the river port of Kaiai or Kaye, which it reached on 15 April. From here, nearly 200 miles inland, was to begin the most arduous part of the journey – the 500-mile overland trek to the Niger. During the next ten days at Kaiai the men set to work unloading their stores and preparing for the journey ahead. More donkeys and other essential provisions were bought from the white traders. Each man was allocated a pack donkey and, of course, the soldiers had a full army kit, including clothing, bedding, cooking and camping equipment, swords, muskets and ammunition. There was also food and water to transport, medical supplies, tools, mapping and measuring equipment and a plentiful supply of gifts with which to buy the goodwill of native kings, princes and chiefs along the way. Park was fortunate in procuring at Kaiai the services of a good African guide, Isaaco, a trader. Travelling with his wife and child and a large band of native followers who would prove invaluable to Park’s party in times of trouble, Isaaco agreed to accompany them as far as the Niger.
nnn
On the morning of 27 April, given a rousing send-off by the guns of the ‘Crescent’ and some other vessels at Kaiai, the expedition party set off on the trek. Certainly there was security in travelling with an armed caravan, but there were also real disadvantages; progress was slow, as the donkeys proved difficult to handle and the party had to keep reasonably close together. Next month in the final part we learn what happened to James Albone and Mungo Park’s expedition.
26 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
out & about music a
The Pad presents Hackney Colliery Band Esquires, Bedford Friday May 27
“Craving a mash-up of early rave classics in frenetic, Balkan brassband style? Finally, your prayers are answered. An inspired musical collision.” “Reinventing the brass-band format for the 21st century” times “This is the most enjoyable, fun music that I know of” observer “One of the greatest live bands we have in this country” BBC radio 2 Ever craved for a night out that’s a little bit different? You’ve seen a million four piece indie rock bands, your fair share of tributes, and you’re all over watching a DJ play other peoples records for four hours. The answer? head to Esquires on Friday 27th May, where former Amy Winehouse live collaborators hackney Colliery Band are performing, for what promises to be one of the finest shows the venue has ever seen.
The band released critically acclaimed debut album ‘Common Decency’ in 2013, and mix up their live sets between original compositions and their own take on other artists songs, including their infamous ‘Prodigy Medley’.
The nine piece brass band have backed some of the worlds finest, as well as selling out shows across the world in their own right, and closing the 2012 London Olympics. They describe themselves as Contemporary brass rock/hip-hop/
comedy p
Spring Classics, St Andrew’s Church, Biggleswade. 3pm, Sunday May 22
Comedy at the Barns Hotel The Barns Bedford Friday May 13
The Barns hotel in Cardington Road, hosted its first comedy night last month. Following this first successful comical occurrence they have a series of future events planned. Next up in May are: Mrs Barbara Nice, having recently
Balkan/afrobeat/jazz music - all we know is it’s going to be fun! Expect Brass, Beats and Bass! Tickets are £13 advance, on sale from Seetickets, Mario’s hair Design in Kempston, Boutique Planet and Esquires Bar in Bedford.
supported both Johnny Vegas and Peter Kay, Barbara is now a circuit headline act in her own right, as well as being one of the most experienced comperes in the country. “She doesn’t just blur the gap between audience and performer-she obliterates it” edinburgh evening News. Also on the bill: Craig Deeley a Birmingham-based stand-up who has crafted his art form over the last ten years. Craig’s repertoire is one of anecdotal observational comedy,
combining humble self-mockery and tapping into the ridiculousness of modern life and everyday occurrences that we all recognise. Luke Graves, full of charm and confidence Luke Graves is funny and professional beyond his comedy years. his relaxed and friendly style on stage combined with his sharp joke writing, consistent punchlines and cheeky intelligent patter make him a comedian who can entertain rooms of all ages. The line-up is completed by the very bald and very angry man from Birmingham, Dave Pollard. Check with the hotel for details and accommodation deals.
Once again, a group of performers specialising in early music are coming to Biggleswade to present ‘Spring Classics’ a delightful afternoon concert of chamber music, involving flute, violin, viola and continuo! The musicians play with some of the best early music groups in the world – such as the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, The Gabrieli Consort and Players, The Early Opera Company, The hanover Band, The Academy of Ancient Music, The English Concert, and The Sixteen have performed in concert venues all over the world. They’ll be bringing to Biggleswade a lovely programme to include music by Bach, handel, Telemann and Couperin, and much more besides. tickets £12 (concessions £10, children under 16 £2) at the door or from 01767 318537. refreshments available.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
music a
Tom Jones with special guests
The Shires Bedford Park Sunday August 7
With a career that has spanned more than half a century Toms Jones is an international performer with more than 100 million record sales generated by hits such as ‘It’s Not Unusual’,’ Kiss’, ‘Delilah’ and ‘What’s New Pussycat’, Tom Jones along with his band are set to entertain Bedford with a repertoire that spans five decades. Tom Jones has won many accolades including a BRIT Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music and a Silver Clef Award for Lifetime Achievement. Knighted in 2006, the global star has amassed 36 top 40 UK hits. his irresistible show traverses musical eras and genres, appeals to young and old, male and female, mainstream and cutting edge. Tom has always been about the power of the voice, the power of the song – he is a living legend, one of the few musical artists whose profession began at the dawn of modern popular music who continues to have a vital recording and performing career to this day. Warming the crowd up and returning to their home county will be very special guests The Shires. The duo of Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes are one of the hottest country influenced acts right now. hailing from Bedfordshire and hertfordshire, The Shires are set to warm up the Bedford crowd and
The highly successful British country and western influenced duo of Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes from Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire – The Shires will be returning to Bedford following a host of radio and TV appearances.
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
open the show for what will be an electric night of fantastic music from not only one of the greatest entertainers in the world but some home grown talent too! Tickets are on sale now and expected to sell out fast. They can be purchased at: www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk
Tickets - Adults £45.00 inclusive of booking fee. Children age 5-15, £15.00 inclusive of booking fee. Under 5s, Free. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
28 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
music a
Spring King +guests
Esquires, Bedford Friday May 13
Spring King is a four-piece postpunk band from Manchester. They are ‘a small-scale, art-pop-punk project’. The band hit the road for a handful of select shows following a year that saw them pick up support from the likes of The Guardian, Stereogum, NME, DIY and The Line of Best Fit, along with becoming the first ever band to be played on Beats 1; being playlisted at both Radio 1 and 6 Music; and touring with Courtney Barnett, Slaves and FIDLAR. With extensive 6music play, Radio One Maida Vale sessions, championed by Zane Lowe, the first band ever played on Apple’s Beats 1 and more there’s huge excitement in the music scene about this up-andcoming prospect. New single ‘Who Are You?’ was launched recently and announced as hottest record in the world on Radio 1 by Annie Mac and has just been ‘A’ listed on 6 Music. huw Stephens has also just made it his record of the
week on Radio 1. “From songwriting experiment to the most hyped uk guitar band of the year” NMe “…one of the most exciting live acts in the UK: raucous but not sloppy, delivering infectious melodies with copious amounts of energy” BBC introducing
BIGGLESWADE SPORTS MEETING 66th Annual Athletic & Grass Track & Cycle Meeting UNDER AAA RULES RULES – BCF LAWS
FAIRFIELD, BIGGLESWADE 1pm SATURDAY 9th JULY 2016
TRACK EVENTS FOR ALL AGES –MALE AND FEMALE
Admission: Adults 50p, Children 20p MEDAL & PRIZES FOR ALL EVENTS INCLUDING RELAYS
Des Ball, Event Secretary Tel: 01767 313790
“They’re either going to crash headfirst into the nearest hazard, or they’ll speed by into stardom” Diy Mag “Like the bottled-up energy of a university house party in full swing” the telegraph The band visit Bedford Esquires on Friday 13th May with doors
opening at 8pm. Tickets are on sale now priced £8 advance from Seetickets and all the regular outlets. This will be the last tour of venues of this size so catch them up close and personal before they leap into bigger venues later in the year, you saw them here first!
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 29
proms in the park t Proms in the Park celebrates 20 years
Bedford Park Concerts are returning this year with their much loved event - The Bedford Park Proms, which will take place on the August 6. It will be made even more special this year as the Proms will celebrate its 20th anniversary and as such the audience will be treated to a spectacular night of music, fireworks
August 6, 2016
and the famous laser show as well as some other surprises on the night. The concert will feature the renowned London Gala Orchestra and as in previous years The Bedford Choral Society will be back performing popular classics and film scores. There will also be some very special guest soloists. This year Classical Brit Award winning Blake will be the headline act at Bedford Park Proms. The classical super group have sold over one million albums; they mix eclectic classical and pop songs with rich harmony vocals. Their extraordinary success has seen them tour extensively all over the world and as well as winning over the public they have also been firm favourites with Royalty, performing several times for the Queen at Buckingham Palace. Blake will be joined by Rebecca Newman, affectionately named ‘The People’s Soprano’ by fans, colleagues and the media. Singer-songwriter Rebecca Newman stormed to number one in the Official UK Classical Albums
Chart with her debut album release. She has also shared the stage with some of the biggest classical stars from Russell Watson, Alfie Boe, and Aled Jones. The night will conclude with a spectacular firework finale, which for many was the biggest highlight of last year’s Proms. The Bedford Park
Proms is one of the only shows in the country where the fireworks are truly choreographed to the music. In true Proms style, the audience is encouraged to bring picnics, table and chairs or rugs and enjoy the amazing family friendly atmosphere tickets are now on sale at www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk .
Colin Lloyd (JAWS)
Darts Exhibition Colin Colin Lloyd Lloyd Exhibition Exhibition 23rd 23rd July July -- Doors Doors Open Open 7:00pm 7:00pm aiming aiming for for 8:00pm 8:00pm Start Start TICKETS TICKETS £10 £10 Biggleswade Biggleswade Working Working Men’s Men’s Club Club Biggleswade Biggleswade SG18 SG18 0JS 0JS
01767 312409 Tickets Tickets sales sales Contact: Contact: Taff Taff 07891509844 07891509844 or or call call behind behind bar. bar. 5 5 Dart Dart Tournaments Tournaments will will be be held held at at Biggleswade Biggleswade Working Working Men’s Men’s Club Club at at £2.50 £2.50 Per Per Entry Entry ALL ALL TOURNAMENT TOURNAMENT WINNERS WINNERS PLAY PLAY COLIN COLIN ON ON THE THE 23RD 23RD JULY JULY ON ON STAGE STAGE
1st May – 15th May – 29th May 12th June – 10th July All All tournaments tournaments start start at at 8:00pm 8:00pm On On night night of of exhibition exhibition there there will will be be other other opportunities opportunities for for spectators spectators to to play play on on stage stage 9 9 Dart Dart Challenge. Challenge. £1 £1 aa go go (may (may enter enter multiple multiple times) times) A A raffle raffle will will be be drawn drawn to to play play him him Auctions Auctions will will also also be be available available on on the the night night to to play play Colin Colin A A special special 15th 15th Match Match will will be be aa final final pairs pairs Colin Colin Lloyd Lloyd & & Trevor Trevor Ellacott. Ellacott. IN IN AID AID OF OF BEDFORDSHIRE BEDFORDSHIRE YOUTH YOUTH DARTS DARTS
30 — BULLETIN MAY 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 We invite all stroke survivors & their carers to join our
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––
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. Sessions are held at ThE COMMUNITY ROOMS BAPTIST ChURCh 24, LONDON ROAD BIGGLESWADE SG18 8EB Telephone, Secretary Amanda 01767 31662 or Gina 07812796581 csgbiggleswade@gmail.com FB. Cancer Support Group Biggleswade.
––––––––––––––––––––––––
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!
––––––––––––––––––––––––
IVEL STROKE CLUB
Meetings are held at Stonecroft, St Swithins Way, Sandy on the third Monday of each month 7.30pm. Transport can be arranged. Speakers, outings & entertainment througout the year. Please contact 01767 680503 for further imformation.
––––––––––––––––––––––––
FIT AS A FIDDLE
Chair based exercises for the over 55s Excellent for circulation problems and Arthritis and many other ailments. Come along and join in with us Weds afternoon 1.30 – 2.30 Cost £4.00 which includes tea a cake afterwards. Handley Court, Bunyan rd Sandy SG19 1BJ tel: Jane on 07799 605541 for further information.
––––––––––––––––––––––––
BADMINTON
We are a social mixed group who meet every Thursday night at Stratton School to play Badminton, from 8pm till 10pm in the Sports hall, we are of mixed ability but most are of an intermediate standard Anybody wishing to find out more please contact Alan on 07974187866 or Colin on 01767 317099 MUMS’ AND DADS’
––––––––––––––––––––––––
CRAFT & GIFT FAIR BUGGY FIT CL ASSES Roxton Garden Centre(off Black Cat roundabout/A1) Bedford Rd. MK44 3DY 29/30th May FREE ENTRY & FREE MAZE A wide selection of unique handmade crafts & gifts, not found on the high St. Stallholders Tel: 01536 675000 email: coulterlyons@yahoo.co.uk
––––––––––––––––––––––––
SANDY TOWN BOWLING CLUB
welcomes new members young and the not so young. of all abilities. SANDY VILLAGE hALL ENGAYNE AVENUE. the season starts in May and runs ‘till September. We play many friendly games through the season mostly of which are mixed (male and female!) First year only membership is £10. match fees vary. For further information please visit www.sandytownbowlingclub.com or contact Glen on 01234 870488
––––––––––––––––––––––––
THE BROADCASTERS NETWORK Centre 8 [C8], Sandy Business Park, Gosforth Close, Sandy, SG19 1 RB Tel: 07542 049 087 www.thebroadcastersnetwork.org SUNDAyS CeLeBrAte 10.30am -12.30 pm FriDAy’S teeN Meet 7.30-9.30pm weDNeSDAyS PrAyer & CeLeBrAte 7.30-9.00pm
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 hannah Liston - 07967 632266 or email: hannahliston@hotmail.com
––––––––––––––––––––––––
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
BIGGLESWADE WI
Has moved from the Baptist Church London road to the weatherley Centre eagle Farm road SG18 8JH due to an increase in membership. we meet on the third Monday of the month from 10am until 12pm.
––––––––––––––––––––––––
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.
––––––––––––––––––––––––
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 For more information or to book a space please contact vicky.buckland@ centralbedfordshire.gov.uk or 0300 300 4248
––––––––––––––––––––––––
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 the opportunity to stop for tea and coffee after the walk) thursdays at 10.00am Walking with Rosario and his team Meeting Outside Stratton School Gates, Biggleswade NO NEED TO BOOK 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 Email: 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
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––
teNNiS For BeGiNNerS
––––––––––––––––––––––––
Children Adults Seniors experienced Players ALL WELCOME Jack: 01767 692242
www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk SANDY FLOWER CLUB Monday 14th March
––––––––––––––––––––––––
FLORAL DEMONSTRATION
by Shirley Henderson from Market Harborough. Her demonstration is titled ‘Bring me Sunshine’. Starts at 7.30pm – Visitors welcome at £5.00 per ticket on the door. There will be a raffle and tea and coffee. We meet at the Conservative Bowls Club pavilion (Rear of the Conservative Club, Bedford Road) The Flower Club meets every second Monday in the month at 7.30pm and new members are always welcome. For more information please call: Sue Alexander: Tel. 01767 699729 or email: sue.e.alexander2@gmail.com
––––––––––––––––––––––––
BADMINTON ACTIVE RETIRED CLUB
thursdays 9am-11am at Saxon Pool & Leisure Centre £1.50 per session includes racket hire Come along and enjoy a game of badminton, guided by a Qualified Badminton Coach. Come on your own and meet new friends, or bring your friends with you! For more information, please contact Vicky.Buckland@ Centralbedfordshire.gov.uk. SANDY hISTORICAL RESEARCh GROUP (ShRG)
––––––––––––––––––––––––
GUIDED TOUR OF KIMBOLTON CASTLE
(including the State Rooms) Sunday 15 May STILL PLACES AVAILABLE. Organised by ShRG; this visit is open to members and non members. Tickets £7.00 per head including tea/coffee and biscuits. Car parking available at the Castle. Full details are available from Richard Barlow on 01767 226392 (or email:gail.barlow@ntlworld.com).
––––––––––––––––––––––––
COFFEE MORNING AND BOOK SALE
in aid of ACTION AGAINST CANCER 10am-1pm Saturday, 28th May, 2016 St Swithun’s Church rooms, Sandy
––––––––––––––––––––––––
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
M & Co BIGGLESWADE
BIGGLESWADE TOWN BOWLS CLUB BTBC is a thriving and very friendly club and welcomes new members of any age and ability, including children under the age of 16. the greens opened on Monday 25 April. Coaching sessions for new bowlers will take place at the club in Drove road on Saturday 7 May and 14 May at 10am. Further information can be obtained from: www.biggleswadetownbowlsclub.bravesites.com or by phoning Jackie (Ladies Secretary) on 07734 459835 or Terry Butt (Club Secretary) on 07739332971.
MAY 2016 BULLETIN — 31
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––
MOGGERHANGER Friday 20th May 10a.m. to 1p.m.
PL ANT SALE COFFEE MORNING Saturday 21st May 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
PLOUGHMAN’S LUNCHES CREAM TEAS Sunday 22nd May 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
CREAM TEAS
At Little Orchard, 36 Blunham Road Chalton, Moggerhanger MK44 3RA Raffle - Cake Stall - Pickles & Preserves Bedding plants, hanging baskets, tomato plants, vegetable plants, herbs, perennials and much more For more information call Jo hollington on 01767 641184 All proceeds to St. John’s Church SANDY FLOWER CLUB Monday 9th May
––––––––––––––––––––––––
A WORKSHOP WITH FOLIAGE by Vanessa.
Foliage, Oasis and dishes will be provided. Starts at 7.30pm – Visitors welcome at £5.00 per ticket on the door. There will be a raffle and tea and coffee. We meet at the Conservative Bowls Club pavilion (Rear of the Conservative Club, Bedford Rd.) The Flower Club meets every second Monday in the month at 7.30pm and new members are always welcome. For more information please call: Sue Alexander: Tel. 01767 699729 or email: sue.e.alexander2@gmail.com ALL SAINTS ChURCh Great Barford Proudly presents :
––––––––––––––––––––––––
SHANNON EXPRESS
7pm – 9.30 pm Saturday 18th June £10.00 per ticket (to include refreshments and free glass of wine.) Please contact: Maureen Munnelly on 01234 870633 or Ann Lovesey on 01234 870693
––––––––––––––––––––––––
CONCERT WITH THE HITCHIN BAND
A concert by the UK-renowned hitchin Band will take place on Saturday 21st May at 7.30pm in St. Swithun’s Church, Sandy. Tickets at £5 each are available from Sandy Information Centre in the Town Council Offices or from Colin Osborne, (telephone 01767 682032). Refreshments available in the interval. All proceeds for The Leprosy Mission.
––––––––––––––––––––––––
IN STORE CHARITY
FASHION SHOW
6pm wednesday 25th May 2016 £5 per ticket on sale in store Includes wine and nibbles All funds go to Cancer Research UK Receive 10% off full price items on the night.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– BRITISh RED CROSS BEDFORDShIRE
OPEN GARDENS 2016 Sunday 8 May, 1.30- 5pm Gardens of westoning, Mk45 5Jw. teas, toilets, plants, parking.
Sunday 15 May, 1.30-5pm Milton House, Milton ernest, Mk441rL teas, toilets, plants, parking. Monday 30 May, 1.30-5pm tofte Manor, Souldrop rd, Beds. Mk44 1HH. teas, toilets, plants, parking.
Sunday 5 June, 1.30-5pm oakley Gardens, westfield road, Mk43 7SU. teas, toilets, plants, parking. Sunday 12 June, 1.30-5pm, Howbury Hall, Bedford, Mk41 0JB. teas, toilets, plants, parking. Sunday 26 June, 1pm to 5pm. turvey House and Garden, Beds., Mk43 8eL. teas, toilets, plants, parking. £6.00 pre-book for house & garden by 12th Jun telephone Natasha on 01582-589083. Garden only on the day £4.00
ROTARY CLUB OF BIGGLESWADE IVEL BIGGLESWADE GREEN WhEEL
––––––––––––––––––––––––
Sunday 8th May 11am 7 ½ or 3 ½ mile walks Sign in at Jordans Mill overflow Car park See www, ivelrotary.org.uk or contact 01767314669 For full details and entry form Maps will be supplied at registration with refreshments en route
COMMUNITY WALK
TRINITY METhODIST ChURCh Shortmead Street Biggleswade Sunday 8th May 9.30am Rev. Glayne Worgan to include communion. Sunday 8th May 10.30am Mr. Glynne Rowlands. Sunday 15th May. 10.30am Mr. Jim Ragless. 6.00pm United service at St. Andrew’s C of E Sunday 22nd May 10.30am Rev. Andrew hollins to include communion 6.00pm Rev. Matt Fugill Informal service. Sunday 29th May 10.30am Service to be held at Upper Caldecote not Trinity 6.00pm Rev. Andrew hollins. healing service.
––––––––––––––––––––––––
3.00pm, Sunday 22nd May, 2016 St Andrew’s Church, Biggleswade.
SPRING CLASSICS
Once again, a group of performers specialising in early music are coming to Biggleswade to present “Spring Classics”, a delightful afternoon concert of chamber music, involving flute, violin, viola and continuo! The musicians play with some of the best early music groups in the world - such as the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, The Gabrieli Consort and Players, The Early Opera Company, The hanover Band, The Academy of Ancient Music, The English Concert, and The Sixteen, - and have performed in concert venues all over the world. They’ll be bringing to Biggleswade a lovely programme to include music by Bach, handel, Telemann and Couperin and much more besides. There’ll be something for everyone, so do come and treat yourself to what promises to be special May afternoon entertainment. Tickets £12 (concessions £10, children under 16 £2) at the door or from 01767 318537. Refreshments available.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– CANCER SUPPORT GROUP BIGGLESWADE AND SURROUNDING VILL AGES
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. Sessions are free Donations accepted. We look forward to meeting you. EVERY FIRST AND ThIRD ThURSDAY OF ThE MONTh AT. the Community room Baptist Church, 24 London road Biggleswade SG18 8eB CoNtACt: Gina 07812 796581 or Amanda 01767 313662 email: csgbiggleswade@gmail.com www.cancersupportgroup.org.uk TRAINS at TRINITY Trinity Methodist Church, Shortmead Street Biggleswade SG18 0AP Saturday 11th June 2016 from 10.30am– 4.30pm (Last entry at 4pm) A Bi-annual
––––––––––––––––––––––––
MODEL RAILWAY AND VINTAGE TOY SHOW
with emphasis on playing trains. Displays, & Exhibitors. Model Railway layouts. Bring and sell stall. Stalls & Model trade stands. Light lunches & Refreshments. In aid of church funds. Level access throughout. No parking at church except for ‘Blue Badge holders’. Nearby parking in Shortmead Street or Rose Lane, and Dan Albone Rec. Entrance to Trinity in Shortmead Street, or Chapel Fields. (rear of the church)
SUPER PL ANT SALE AND OPEN DAY Stratton School Farm eagle farm road Biggleswade SG18 8JB
Sunday May 8th 10am-4pm
Bedding, Basket plants, herb, Tomato, Pepper and Chilli plants BBQ, games and family activities Sheep shearing Farm produce for sale PLEASE NO BICYCLES OR DOGS (except guide dogs)
ST JOhN’S hOSPICE
–––––––––––––––––––––––– forthcoming events
OUT OF OFFICE CHALLENGE
24 June 2016 Get together with your work colleagues and join us for a day of volunteering, team building and networking. Teams will compete for points throughout the day, with exciting prizes for the winning team.
17 July – 1.00pm – 5.00pm A summer memorial event to be held in the grounds with the opportunity to purchase sunflower plaques with you loved ones name.
GARDEN OF MEMORIES
20 -21 July To be held at St John’s hospice. Visit www.sueryder.org/stjohns for more.
ART EXHIBITION
13 August – 3.00pm -10.00pm Come and experience 20 Acts performing across 3 stages in this one day music festival. This summer event is guaranteed to be a great day out for all. To book your tickets go to www.sueryder.org/busktilldusk
BUSK TILL DUSK
14 August – 11.00am – 4.30pm Come along to St John’s hospice country fayre and enjoy a day of best attractions including vintage cars, birds of prey, archery, craft stalls, dog show, food court and much more. www.suryder.org/countryfayre
COUNTRY FAYRE
24 September - 8.00pm walk starts at 10.00pm A 10k and 5k walk around the hospice grounds and local area. A wonderful night full of fun, and memories. Sign up now to take advantage of our early bird offer. Email stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org for more.
STARLIGHT WALK
12 November – 7pm – 1.00am Our yearly ball will be taking place at The Park Inn hotel Bedford. Get your glam rags ready and register your interest. For further info call 01767 642412 email: stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org
CHARITY BALL
Admission £4. Concessions £3. Accompanied children under 16 free.
––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––
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