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NOVEMBER 2016
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Biggleswade TOWN COUNCIL
COUNCIL MEETINGS:
8 November COUNCIL 15 November – 10am PERSONNEL 15 November- 7pm TOWN CENTRE MANAGEMENT FOLLOWED BY FINANCE & GENERAL PURPOSE 22 November – 7pm COUNCIL 6 December – 7pm PUBLIC LAND AND OPEN SPACES
With the exception of the Joint Committee meeting, all meetings are held in the Council Chamber, Saffron Road, Biggleswade and commence at 7pm unless otherwise notified. ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND
GENERAL MARKETS on the Market Square Tuesdays and Saturdays 8am-4pm
KNOW YOUR COUNCILLORS
Cllr David Albone Cllr Jonathan Medlock MAYOR Conservative – Stratton Labour – Ivel Cllr Mrs Hazel Ramsay Cllr Michael R North Conservative – Stratton DEPUTY MAYOR Cllr Bernard J Rix Conservative – Holme Independent – Stratton Cllr Peter Biernis Labour – Ivel Cllr Mrs Madeline A Cllr Ian J Bond Russell Conservative – Ivel Conservative – Ivel Cllr Bernard V Briars Cllr Duncan A Strachan Labour – Ivel UKIP – Stratton Cllr Frank S Foster Cllr Steven Watkins UKIP – Ivel Conservative – Stratton Cllr Mark A Foster Independent – Stratton Cllr Timothy P Woodward Cllr Ms Rebecca Kerfoot Conservative – Holme Labour – Ivel
We re-launched our Farmers’ Market as:
FARMERS’ AND CRAFT MARKET Are you a local craft enthusiast? We would like to invite you to trade on our monthly Farmers’ and Craft Market. The rent is currently only £9.90, we even supply a stall.You will need to hold current Public Liability Insurance and Food Hygiene Certificate (if applicable). If this sounds of interest to you, please call Biggleswade Town Council and ask for Sue or Kay.
FARMERS’ AND CRAFT MARKETS (on the last Wednesday of each month except June and December)
30 November and 21 December and On the Market Square 9am – 2pm Where you can buy locally produced meat, pies, cakes, eggs, Bedfordshire Clangers, Handmade Cushions, PVC Oil Cloth Bags (Handbags, Shoppers, Mini Totes, weekend bags, baby bags, purses, coin purses etc), Homewares, Handmade Cards and other paper crafts, and Granite Chopping Boards.
CHARITY STALL BOOKINGS We are now taking bookings for 2017
A £5 deposit is required, and if you are a local Club or Organisation, this will be refunded to you on the day.
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MARKETS Biggleswade Town Council The Old Court House, 4 Saffron Road Biggleswade SG18 8DL Tel: 01767 313134 Fax: 01767 601188 Email: enquiries@biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk www.biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk
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NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 3
4 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
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M&S welcomes first customers to new store
Marks & spencer (M&s) Biggleswade opened its doors to customers for the first time in september, unveiling the largest M&s store to open in 2016. The 61,000 sq. ft. store houses an extensive range of departments including Womenswear, Menswear, kidswear, Beauty and Homeware. The store also features a 9,000 sq. ft. Foodhall, which boasts more than 6,000 products, plus a 136-seat café. To mark the opening, store manager James Harden (pictured) cut the ribbon accompanied by the Mayor of Biggleswade, councillor David albone, and celebrated the launch of the new store with 130 members of his team and the local community. shoppers were then invited into the store and welcomed with a glass of M&s prosecco and music from Heart radio DJ, nicky Vadera. The first 50 shoppers bagged an exclusive goody bag full of M&s treats and customers were able to win a share of £500 worth of M&s gift cards with a competi-
tion, hosted by Heart FM. shoppers enjoyed a morning of entertainment including an array of in-store tastings from suppliers including adnams Brewery and park cakes – even percy pig and colin the caterpillar were in store
to greet the younger shoppers. James Harden, store Manager at M&s Biggleswade, said: “We were absolutely thrilled to open our doors today and see the crowds of shoppers waiting in anticipation this morning. The
team have worked extremely hard to prepare the store for its launch, and we’re confident our offering will be a fantastic addition to the a1 retail park. “It’s been great to hear customer feedback on the new store today, I look forward to welcoming, and getting to know, our new customers over the coming weeks.” Throughout the day, beauticians in M&s’s new Beauty Department were offering manicures in return for a small donation towards the store’s charity of the Year, st John’s Hospice. Linda Heath, one of the first customers to enter the store, said: “I moved to the area six months ago and I’m so pleased that we finally have M&s in Biggleswade. I used to get all my food at M&s and with christmas on the horizon – I’m so thrilled to have this right on my doorstep. The hundreds of people queuing this morning show how excited the community is and the store looks fantastic. The café will certainly draw the crowds!”
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Bedfordshire’s Miss Galaxy Jessica Rollings, is one busy lady. Not only is she attending various events throughout the county in her role as Miss Bedford Galaxy she has two other commitments that take up much of her time. Jessica, 22, from Flitwick is also a mother to a two-year-old son and she is also studying for a BA Hons Psychology Criminology degree at the Open University. To top all of this she also setting her sights on the Miss Galaxy England title. Success here would mean a trip to Orlando, Florida, to compete in the international competition. Jessica recently attended the opening of the Empire night club in Bedford and has been involved in several charity events supporting the Luton and Dunstable Hospital. Another project in the pipe line is her own charity event to support ‘Christie’ a leading UK cancer charity. Jess is looking for more events to attend to raise her profile in the county – contact her via the Bulletin and we’ll pass it on.
NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 5
All change at Sandy schools on the cards
FIVe schools in the sandy area have launched consultations about extending their age ranges. sandy Upper is proposing to become a secondary school while four lower schools – robert peel, Moggerhanger, st swithun’s Vc and John Donne c of e – are consulting on becoming primary schools. The consultations are being driven by the respective schools’ governing bodies and parents, residents and other interested stakeholders will be able to give their responses until they close on 23rd november. Once the consultations have closed the schools’ respective governing bodies will meet and decide how to proceed, with any changes coming into force in september 2017. as the schools are voluntary aided, voluntary controlled or foundation they are allowed to propose and determine a change of age range of up to two years, following a consultation process, without having to get permission from central Bedfordshire council. More information and the consultation documents are available on the
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respective schools’ websites – with paper copies also available at the schools. The consultations will be running in tandem with another one asking people’s thoughts on extending the age range at everton Lower school to become a primary. That was agreed by central Bedfordshire council’s executive on the 11th October – and as everton is a local authority controlled school the final decision on any change of age range will be made by the council next year. karen Hayward, principal at sandy Upper school, said: “although all six schools have to consult on a change of age range separately, the discussion to consult at this time has been done in partnership with each other. “We very much hope that all stakeholders will take this opportunity to give us their views on the issue by attending one of the consultation meetings or filling in the questionnaire in each of the consultation documents. The consultation documents can also be found on each of the schools’ own websites.”
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NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 7
Expanded middle school is a real blessing
a cereMOnY has taken place to officially open the expansion scheme at edward peake church of england Middle school. The capacity of the school, in potton road, Biggleswade, has risen from 480 to 600 pupils following the completion of the works and means that each year group will now be five forms of entry rather than four. Bishop of Bedford the rt revd richard atkinson was on hand at the school to carry out a blessing at an event attended by other invited guests including central Bedfordshire council
The green green grass
MOsT of the awards that come to the Langford road stadium are won on the pitch by the footballing team Biggleswade Town. However this award goes to groundsman Jim Woodward who travelled recently to the Fa centre of excellence at Burton, to collect his trophy. The awards are the result of the referee and visiting club marking the pitch out of a possible 100 points. The top five are then put forward to the F.a. for assessment by ground officials. Jim received the southern league runner up cup and a national highly commended for clubs at level 3 and 4 at a special groundsman of the year ceremony. To see Jim and the award winning pitch come down to see a match. check the Biggleswade Town website for details of fixtures.
chairman cllr David Bowater, executive Member for education and skills cllr steven Dixon, staff and pupils. as well as the new two-storey block including six classrooms and administration area, children at the school are now benefitting from a new twocourt sports hall as well as extra space to play outside. The work means that the original hall and gym at the school have been combined to create a bigger area which can be used for dining, school performances and worship.
Mandy reddick, headteacher at edward peake Middle school, said: “We are all delighted with our new building and the children and staff are very proud. The design/build company we selected (Watson and cox) fully embraced our christian, values-driven status and their design means that we can continue to operate our family/community ethos in what has become known as our unique ‘edward peakness’.” read more about the council’s ongoing new school places programme at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/school/organisation/programme.aspx
8 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
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SANDY TOWN COUNCIL
LAST TWO TALKS OF THE YEAR
THe second Talk will be given by local historian, retired railwayman and enthusiast George Howe and will be about his vast knowledge about the Great northern railway, concentrating on the sandy and Biggleswade areas and is entitled– ‘The Great Northern Railway through Bedfordshire’. George worked as a signal-
man between Hitchin, Huntingdon, several supervisory and managerial positions between kings cross, peterborough, and Doncaster. His whole railway career was in effect on the route of the Great northern Main line from kings cross and eventually to Doncaster. The talk will be illustrated with slides and will cover plans and land ownership prior to the opening of the railway. The how, why and when the Gnr came about, its history,
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route and the part it played in forming part of the east coast Main line we know today. It will cover plans of what might have been, suggested routes that never came about and the effect the growth of traffic made to the infrastructure in the Biggleswade and sandy area. It will also include a closer look at the area around Biggleswade and sandy. although the Great northern railway came to an end as a company when the Lner came into being in 1923, has and does it still exist today. The Talk will be held in the Sandy Baptist Church Hall, Bedford Road, Sandy on Monday, 14th November at 7.30pm. Refreshments will be served in aid of the Sandy Christmas Lights. The final Talk of the year will be given by sandy resident and businessman richard Banks about ‘Growing a Business in Sandy’ richard Banks, together with his brother took over the business of Banks of sandy in 1974. They built up the business and its
area expanded to cover half of the United kingdom with the HQ still located in sandy. The business entered into rice milling and lorry maintenance and at its peak employed 650 people. richard was captain of sandy cricket club, president of the east of england agricultural society, a founding chairman of the agriculture Industries confederation (aIc) and High sheriff of Bedfordshire in 2006 The Talk will be held in the Sandy Baptist Church Hall, Bedford Road, Sandy on Wednesday, 14th December at 7.30pm. Refreshments will be served in aid of the Sandy Carnival. The costs of the Talks are £5.50 per person and payment is required on booking. please note that no refunds are available unless the council cancels or changes the date of the Talk. sandy Town council, 10 cambridge road, sandy sG19 1Je Tel: 01767 681491 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
SANDY TOWN COUNCIL REMEMbRANCE DA y PARADE & SERvICE Sunday 13th Novemb er 2016 War Memorial, bedford at the Ro commencing at 10.50am ad, .
COUNCIL MEETING DATES All meetings commence at 7.30pm except Development Scrutiny Committee (Planning) which starts at 6.30pm in the Council Chamber, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE
Monday 7 November 2016 Development Scrutiny Community Services & Environment Monday 21 November 2016 Development Scrutiny Policy Finance & Resources Monday 28 November 2016 Town Council Monday 12 December 2016 Development Scrutiny Human Resources See our website for details of other meetings ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND
UNC TOWN COARD
ILLORS
WARD PINNACLE is ld A N Cllr P IVEL W ARD 7 691333 76 e 01 in la BEESTON W B P Cllr t, 7 Mayfield Cour F tt Cllr M P Sco1457 01767 692619 y SG19 1N nd Sa e, 68 os 7 Cl ail.com Home 0176 19 Poplar nigel.aldis1@gm H 0983 Work 01767 68 ddington Sandy SG19 1H e@gmail.com Se Cllr J Ali “The Gowans” rth Road peterblaine.blain 07962 361102 No 01767 689743 orre, Nursery, Great y SG19 1NZ ill H M llr ua nd C Sq Sa et , ark 22 M Seddington A rnet.com 01767 681469 eston, Sandy SG19 1J scott729@btinte 21 The Green, Be ne or sb O C E Cllr SG19 1P ARD amaxhill@outlook.com. .B.E., J.P. W M D EL FI W FALLO 01767 682032 Leeds Smith son 2 Cllr W Jack Summercourt, 19 1LU 49 Cllr T Cole 25 01767 68 , Sandy SG 88 ive 98 s, Dr 69 en 7 rd 76 Ga 01 ld e Hom 14 Westfie e, F Sharman 1 Partridge Piec P Sandy SG19 1H btinternet.com Cllr D 68 2U 19 2@ SG 68 66 y 7 on Sand 0176 38 Sandy SG19 2TA will.jacks tmail.co.uk teresacole@ho 21 Falcon Close, tt ti et P J Cllr M h ow ac Le G 82 00 llr C Cllr J Sparr 01767 68 e Gardens, 01767 682693 Council 42 Swansholm L 01767 681491 Council Town Sandy SG19 1H ginmedia.com C/o Sandy ge Road, C/o Sandy Town ad, Ro 10 Cambrid E martin.pettitt@vir 10 Cambridge E Sandy SG19 1J ton Sandy SG19 1J council.gov.uk Cllr S J Sut wn admin@sandyto 89 75 22 EXISTS IN 01767 ONE VACANCY D an , AR W Cllr P Sharm 33 Bedford Road LE AC NN PI P Sandy SG19 1E 07889 599556 t, 3 Swallow Cres N Sandy SG19 2S
TMAS SANDy CHRIS ON H LIGHTS SWIT1pCm onwards
ber Sunday 4 Decem 4.30pm on ch swit Lights, a team of
ndy Christmas The Friends of Saup of local residents and town e ad m e to invite all volunteers uncillors, would lik ding villages to co d an f af st cil un coun ndy and the surro the residents of San and entertainment, which will an afternoon of fu itching on of Sandy’s Christmas culminate in the sw 4.30pm. lights for 2016 at last year, a similar event to ed almost n ru to g in nd te attract We are in ly successful and which proved highks in part to ideal weather for the 3000 people, than time of year. all kinds of ty of stalls selling es, There will be plen a large funfair with rides for all ag e, uc d other seasonal prod ral food outlets an m Santa’s grotto, sevetion, throughout the afternoon fro e th di ad on t In . en ns m io in ct rta tra te at ere will be live en around 1.30pm th local schools and bands. Please d by stage provided for a wonderful afternoon of fun an us in jo d come an festive cheer. ease contact about the event pl n io at rm fo in e or . For m on: 01767 681491 the Council offices
SHAPING WH
ERE yOU LIvE Central Bedfordshi 2035 re Council are ho ld Community Plan ning Event on Th ing a ursday 3rd November 2016 at Sandy Town C ou 10 Cambridge R oad, Sandy betw ncil’s offices at een 2.30pm and 7.30pm. This cons appear in Central ultation will affect how Sandy will of crucial importa Beds Council’s Local Plan and it is heard. Why not conce that residents make their view important consul me along and have your say in th s tation? is 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
10 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
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Greene King trial run re-union
IT Was hardly surprising that so many ex-employees from Greene king turned out to meet up with friends and indeed family (at one time 64 employees out of 106 were related) and it was the largest employer in Biggleswade until its doors closed on 31 October 1997. nevertheless, it was a great turnout of 40-50 people with all credit going to organisers, Bev Beddall and Bruce Odell, of what is now being referred to as ‘a trial run’ re-union. When word got around that a reunion might be underway, Bev said: “Whilst we were thinking of a 20 Year re-union in 2017, pressure and excitement to have one sooner resulted in a get together on Friday 23 september 2016. I had no idea where to start, other than amongst the friends I’d kept in contact with and it was a question of getting them to extend the invite further to any friends they were still in contact with and hoping for the best.” Bruce, however, had every confidence that the event would be well supported, having booked in advance the function room at the conservative club. Whilst, unfortunately, over the years some ex Greene king employees/family members had died, or were living with disabilities/illness or caring for loved ones, the enthusi-
asm for the company they worked for nearly 19 years ago had by no means waned. amongst numerous comments and accolades for their time at Greene king, with one person still dreaming they worked there, Jimmy Mayor who started out with the company at the age of 15, confirmed: “It was the best job I’ve ever had in my life,” and roy Bacon added: “It was certainly a great place to work and then we had to go out into the real world.” There was banter about who amongst them had worked for Greene king the longest, followed by how many years family members
had accrued at the company. The ‘Desboroughs’ and ‘Odells’ seemed to come out on top but only exemployee and well-known local historian, ken page, would be able to confirm and may like to follow up. so successful was the trial reunion that plans were made on the night for the big 20 Year reunion charity night, which will be held on saturday 28 October 2017 and as proposed by ‘The committee’, all proceeds will be in aid of two charities, which are close to two exemployees’ hearts, having both lost their daughters in the last few years and have been fundraising ever
since, for hope for others. re-Think Mental Illness is in memory of sue’s daughter, charlotte shepherd and angela’s small cell ovarian research fund at The eve appeal, is in memory of Linda’s daughter, angela Butcher. Tickets will be available nearer the time and prizes for the Grand Greene king charity raffle will be sought but in the meantime, now that word is out, if you worked at the Greene king Brewery before its closure, please pencil in The 20 Year re-Union date and pass this on to any of your friends or family who worked there.
Volunteering with Sight Concern Bedfordshire
DO you want to use the IT skills you already have? You could be making a real difference to visually impaired people`s lives as they develop technological skills to get online to access services, use internet keeping in touch with friends, family and the world, broaden their experience and enrich their lives. What`s in it for you? Volunteering with sight concern Bedfordshire is rewarding and enjoyable. It’s a chance to use your interests with ongoing training and support in a friendly team meeting new people and to be both needed and appreciated for your skills and time. There are vacancies in other roles too, especially home visiting and office support. sight concern Bedfordshire has received the Queens award for voluntary services this year and works with over 120 volunteers throughout Bedfordshire to deliver services to visually impaired people. For more information contact: Joanna clark tel 01234 264023 or e: joannaclark@sightconcern.org.uk
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NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 11
12 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
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Monthly update from the Police and Crime Commissioner
In Focus with
by Kathryn Holloway
by Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP
Alistair
ILLEGAL CAMP SITES – ENOUGH IS ENOUGH
I HaVe been working very closely with Mp for south West Bedfordshire andrew selous to call on the Government to give greater powers to the police to deal with illegal traveller encampments which cause such misery and intimidation for residents. The chief constable and I met with andrew selous prior to his parliamentary debate on travellers, and I detailed the sort of uplift in legal powers that we want to see so that we can put an end to these illegal encampments which intimidate local residents and mean they do not feel able to use theIr recreational spaces. The chief constable of Bedfordshire police, Jon Boutcher, has called for a Gold Group of senior police, andrew selous as a former Minister at the Ministry of Justice, and leaders of local authorities to pull together all their civil and criminal powers and responsibilities to unite to disrupt illegal encampments in the county in what Mr Boutcher calls a ‘Team Bedfordshire’ approach. We need to work with local authorities who are required to provide transit sites so that police have somewhere where such travellers can go. In Bedford Borough, for example, although the need for such a site was identified in 2012 it still does not exist. We also need councils to use their anti-social Behaviour powers, called section 77, but they are reluctant to do so because it involves them in the expense of going to court. The law makes it clear that the local authority is the lead agency in such cases. In some areas the councils, including Bedford Borough, have been involved in effective target hardening – raising earthworks around recreation sites to make it impossible for caravans and other vehicles to get onto the grassed areas. This is something which police cannot do but which is essential to make it more difficult for these encampments to take root. This is not just a policing issue, but one for all of us to attack together, and in this Force we are determined to send a message that enough is enough and work in a properly joined-up way to put an end to a problem causing a misery for residents and a sapping of resources for the police.
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HOW DOES THE US ELECTION AFFECT US?
aT THe time of writing, the Us presidential election is in its final phase. You think that a general election is a drawn out affair – it is nothing compared to the Us, where the early phases occurred some two years ago. However this particular election has kept the interest of many throughout the world despite the length of time, partly because it has been at times a gruesome affair, different from any previous contest, and also because, whatever the outcome, it affects the whole world. I cannot recall a contest in which the two candidates from the republicans and Democratic parties have been so ill thought of by the electorate as a whole. I can understand this in relation to Donald Trump, whose lack of experience, and aggressive and offensive manner has been designed not to win votes from the thoughtful and undecided, but simply to focus on the more extreme prejudices of those who have fallen for easy sloganising to ‘make america great again’. Mrs clinton has suffered not from lack of experience, but having had this experience thrown at her, with all the problems which come with being in the public eye for decades, and a record which could be endlessly poured over. The sense of ‘none of the above’, not uniquely confined to the Us, has rarely been greater. I am sorry about the reluctance to support Mrs clinton, who I have seen at close quarters working effectively on difficult world issues, and whose private personality displayed away from the cameras in working situations is some distance from what is said about her. I think she has the background and quality to do the job of president well, and would have backed her against many republican opponents, let alone the wildcard Trump. The job matters to all of us. Whatever the historic relevance of president Obama as the first black leader of his country, and his likeable personality, his foreign policy has struggled against the big issues, and the world is more uncertain as a result. His successor has a big, and complex, in-tray.
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NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 13
New masks for pets affected by fire
Firefighter Steve Pinhorne demonstrates the equipment with Reqs the Hertfordshire Fire Dog. Follow Reqs on twitter @ReqsFireDog
peTs in Bedfordshire, affected by household fires, can now be helped on the scene by Firefighters with specially designed life-saving oxygen masks being carried on all of Bedfordshire Fire and rescue’s front line appliances. We have tried to resuscitate pets using regular oxygen masks but they are not suitable for use on animals and don’t work very well. The new masks are specifically designed for dogs, cats and even smaller animals like rabbits and hamsters and make it easier to effectively revive animals. paul Fuller, chief Fire Officer said: “Last year BFrs attended a number of fires where animals were involved, some of which required oxygen due to smoke inhalation. We know pets are very important to people and when we
attend a fire owners are very concerned about the safety of their pets. These new masks will enable us to improve the chances of helping pets in the aftermath of a fire.” The masks have been donated by smokey paws, a not for profit organisation who raise money through sponsorship and support to provide masks to Fire services around the country. Lynne carberry from smokey paws said: “We raise the money for the life-saving pet oxygen masks through public donations and company sponsorship. everyday Firefighters risk their lives and the least we can do is help them by providing the right equipment for them to help our pets.” You can donate to help to buy more masks by visiting www. smokeypaws.co.uk
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Become a foster carer Happy reunion Last month the Stratton House Hotel hosted a reunion of the 1960 intake of the former Stratton Grammar School. Of approximately 220 students in the year group, organiser Jim Cole (who now lives in Yorkshire) traced all but 42, and of those he managed to contact almost half attended the reunion. Many travelled considerable distances, particularly Lesley Alderton (nee Woodroffe), and Carolyn Jarlett (nee Curtis) who both travelled from Australia, whilst Andrew Corke arrived from Sweden. Several former teachers were also traced and Messrs Lawrence, Lee and Newell attended as guests.
“The eight months of tracing my old school friends has all been worthwhile as so many friendships have been renewed,” said Jim Cole. “It was heart warming to see the joy in that room.” A number of former Stratton Grammar students from other years also contacted the organisers and Mr Cole is now in discussions to see if Stratton School can host an informal gathering of pupils from all of the last seven decades within the not too distant future. Photograph: Heather Ann Photography 07753 932152. www.heatherann.co.uk
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AT Children First we are continually recruiting foster carers. If you have ever thought about becoming a foster carer, or would like to find out more information, please take a look at the website, www.cffa.co.uk or call Kim on 01268 567330. ‘Children First’ are an independent and well established fostering agency. Our aim is to provide quality care and achieve the best outcomes for the children and young people entrusted to us. We do so by working in consultation and partnership with our foster carers, local authorities, our experienced and professional social workers, and of course the children and young people we look after. There are many reasons why children need to be ‘looked after’ by foster carers. Each child or young person’s circumstances are unique and by providing a safe, caring family environment, you could make a difference and help turn their life around. Some families for instance, have periods of instability due to life issues such as medical conditions, family breakdown, learning difficulties and substance misuse. Some children unfortunately also experience significant harm from family members, including being exposed to inappropriate behaviour or risk. A wide variety of people are eligible to become foster carers. You can be single, married or divorced. At Children First our carers come from wide ranging cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds. Some of our carers choose to work part time, while others may be unemployed or studying, they might be home owners or tenants. Each foster child however, will need to have his or her own bedroom. Children and young people need space around them for their own possessions and to allow them to study, play and relax. The most important thing is that your home is welcoming and safe. As a foster carer you will need to have the time and energy to invest in a child or young person. You must also be flexible, patient and understanding. Foster Carers receive a weekly allowance and have the support of our professional team 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In addition we offer continual training and development. @CFFAFostering
16 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
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British Empire Medal presentation ceremony
aT a special ceremony held at Luton Hoo, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen nellis, presented four British empire Medals awarded at the new Year Honours and Birthday Honours 2016. Dignitaries present included the High sheriff of Bedfordshire, charles Whitbread; Mayor of Luton, cllr Tahir khan and the chairman of central Bedfordshire council, cllr David Bowater. The recipients were joined by family members and friends and heard details about the achievements of each person read by the Lord-Lieutenant’s cadets. The medallists honoured were:
Dr Marjorie Cotton BEM Marjorie cotton BeM received her honour for services to the community of cranfield, Bedfordshire. Marjorie is a retired Gp and in 2004 she started to become very active in serving st peter and st paul’s parish church in cranfield. she became secretary of the pcc. she produced a Guidebook for the parish church which was very well received. as an active member of the Village Hall committee she helped fund raise £250,000 as well as obtaining grants. The Hall is now the hub of the community. since 2008 she established Hands across cranfield. This has involved 30 volunteers being on call to assist elderly people in need, proving lifts to hospitals, helping with household repairs etc. she has also introduced lunches at the local social club and approximately 60 villagers regularly attend. since 2009 she has run a series of chair Based exercises for Older people running alongside the Hands across cranfield Group.
Paul Bowen-James BEM Founder and chief executive of the kids in action charity, paul Bowen-James BeM received his honour for services to children and Young people in Bedfordshire. In 1996 paul set up the charity kids in action for young people with special needs and disabilities. He funded a small youth club and subsequently bought a mini bus for group outings. He also persuaded a number of local football teams and organisations to hold fun days for these families. He started a computer repair shop to help with funding which enabled kids in action to eventually buy permanent premises. In 2008 he purchased a fund raising company which allowed all the money raised to go directly to the charity. He has bought four caravans in caister-on-sea for families to enjoy
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis with Mike Marshall BEM.
short breaks. One caravan has been adapted with a special bed and a hoist for the more physically challenged. about 250 children and young people access kids in action through its clubs and drop in centre.
Mike Marshall BEM Mike Marshall received his honour for services to the community in Old Warden. He has been a parish councillor since 1989 and chair on a number of occasions. One of his major successes in his role as a councillor was to secure a vital affordable housing scheme in the village. since 1974 he has also been an active member of the st Leonard’s parochial church council. His priority in this role has been spearheading fundraising initiatives to restore this historically important medieval building. He formed the local social History Group, which played a vital role in working with the local council to help secure £2.8 million of Heritage Lottery funding to restore the swiss Garden to its former glory. He is chair of the Village Hall committee and led the community through raising £75,000 to upgrade these facilities. For 40 years, he has been a member of Old Warden cricket club, and has served as Treasurer and now chair.
Des Salmon BEM Des salmon was honoured for his services to the community in studham where he has given huge amounts of his time to a number of local organisations. For the last 20 years he has been chairman of the Friends of studham church and for the past 30 years has
also been the organiser for the annual fundraising May Fair, which raises over £6,000 a year for the church. The money raised through this event has gone towards maintaining the Grade 1 listed church building and its surrounds. He served on the parish council
from 2003 to 2013, including four years as chair. He remains as chairman of the Village Hall committee, where he leads a very small team in managing, improving and maintaining the village hall. For over two decades, he has been a Mentor for the prince’s Trust, particularly specialising in guiding and supporting young people in the world of business. In the role he has been a great support for their Get Into programmes, both as a progression mentor and business mentor. He is a Trustee for advocacy for Older people, which he has been since 2003. HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen nellis said after the ceremony: “I was delighted to celebrate the achievements and huge contribution of five special people who I was privileged to present with their British empire Medals, on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen. They are an inspiration to us all and a reminder of how much difference each of us can make when we go the extra mile to serve our communities. It was a particular pleasure to conduct the ceremony at Luton Hoo, one of Bedfordshire historic treasures, where we received a very warm welcome”.
High Sheriff visits Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Headquarters
THE High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Mr Charles Whitbread and his wife Jane met officers, staff and Firefighters when they visited the headquarters of Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue in Kempston recently. They were given a tour of the training centre and the Brigade Command and Control Centre to see first-hand the work that these teams do on a daily basis. Mrs Whitbread also volunteered to take part in a demonstration where she was cut out of a vehicle by the crew of Kempston Blue Watch. The High Sheriff was shown the tools and equipment used to carry out this procedure
when rescuing people trapped in vehicles following road traffic accidents. The High Sheriff and his wife thoroughly enjoyed seeing the service at work. “We had a fascinating day with the Fire and Rescue Service and were amazed at the breadth of services provided to the communities of Bedfordshire beyond the fighting of fires”, he said. “It was clear how cohesive all the departments are in working as a single team to deliver an excellent service in our county and with all the other emergency services in Team Bedfordshire.
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NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 17
Rotary Ivel members plant 2,500 crocus bulbs
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Back Row: L-R Jane Wallis, (wife of DL Andrew Walis), Barbara Cursley (wife of Rotary District Governor Chalmers Cursley), Chalmers Cursley (Rotary District Governor Beds, Bucks & Herts), Andrew Wallis MBE Deputy Lieutenant, Keith Hichisson (Biggleswade Ivel Rotary Club one of the organisers of the event) Dawn Walton (events manager Jordans Mill) Front Row: L-R Lindsey Knight (President Biggleswade Ivel Rotary Club), Mary Whitehead (member Biggleswade Ivel Rotary Club).
IN SPITE of a very wet and windy welcome Deputy Lieutenant start to the day, 2,500 purple Andrew Wallis MBE on his first crocus bulbs were planted at official duty as a DL and Chalmers Jordans Mill as part of the Rotary Cursley our own Rotary District International in Great Britain and Governor. The club is also very Ireland campaign ‘Purple4Polio’ appreciative of the support given to raise awareness and funds for by the staff at Jordans Mill.” As well as the crocus planting, the global eradication of Polio. The colour purple has been chosen as it visitors were able to enjoy a special represents the colour of the dye Teddy Bear Hunt around the placed on the little finger of a child grounds of Jordans Mill. The prize on mass immunisation days, when was a giant purple teddy bear millions of children in entire named ‘Boris’. The lucky winner countries are protected against the was four-year-old Jessica Leonard who was thrilled to be taking him disease. Members of the Rotary Club of home. Biggleswade Ivel and representatives from Jordans Mill were joined by members of the public in planting the crocus bulbs, and were on hand to speak to visitors about Polio and the ‘Purple4Polio’ campaign. A child’s iron lung situated in the lobby provided a striking talking point and reminder of the horrors of the disease. Lindsey Knight, Biggleswade Ivel Rotary Club President said “Our club is delighted that so many people came along to take part. We look forward to seeing a wonderful show in the spring when the crocuses flower as a reminder of the impact that Polio has on the countries in which it still remains, and why eradicating it is so important. We were very pleased to
eLecTrO exchange is the only ‘computer shop’ in Biggleswade, situated at 152 shortmead street in Biggleswade (entrance via Mastercars car sales forecourt ), it is owned and run by Jim Howard who purchased the shop as a going concern in 2004. since taking over it has been run as mainly as a ‘computer shop’ but they do sell a few stereos and televisions. They probably have the largest stock of refurbished laptops in Bedfordshire and have starter laptops from £100 as well as a good range of brand new laptops. They also build Tower computers to order or carry a good range of preowned ones. Windows reinstalls and virus removals are normally back with the customer the same day. For screen replacements they have a three day turnaround sometimes quicker if the new parts arrive the next day after ordering. repairing overheating laptops is a large part of the work carried out on the premises and they carry a full range of laptop chargers as they often get chewed by pets and need replacing. Many laptops or computer Towers can be repaired or upgraded for a fraction of the cost of buying a new one. They carry a good stock of computer hardware and peripherals including antivirus software, ink cartridges, external hard drives, keyboard and mouse sets including wireless. They also offer an environment friendly disposal service for old laptops and computers that normally get put in a cupboard and forgotten about. This includes hard disk erasure if required. *Free computer health check, subject to terms andconditions. come in and give us a try, get your computer repaired. call 01767 318966 or email electroex change@ntlworld.com
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18 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
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Awarded for 100 years of scouting service FOUR Scouting friends with a combined service of 100 years have each been awarded medals of merit by the Scout Association in recognition of their dedicated work with the Biggleswade Scout Group. The four are Nick Gurney, Sonia Jackson, Brian Maskell and Chris Wells. Nick Gurney started as a Venture Scout in 1978 before becoming a leader in 1983. For over 30 years he made the Group Gang Shows his own special interest first as a performer and then as producer. He has just produced his 10th Gang Show to rave reviews. He helped to master mind the naming of Baden-Powell Way in Biggleswade and there met B-Ps grand- daughter Gill who has become a lifelong friend. Not one to sit back, Nick also started a Disco group in 1983 with Scouting friends to raise thousands of pounds for the Scout Group. It is still going strong with help from the Explorer Scouts. Nick says, “It has been three decades of fun and many challenges. I have enjoyed every minute of it.” Sonia Jackson and Brian Maskell have a history in Biggleswade Scout Group that goes back over 20 years. Brian says, “I started to help out the Neptune Cub Pack when my son joined but then found out that Mars Cub Pack were struggling for leaders so I joined them. Two years later in 1997, Sonia was press ganged into the pack while visiting a Blue Peter bring and buy sale we were holding in the hut. That was the bargain of the day, and she stayed with the pack until this year when she moved to our Explorer Unit. “There were just so many happy times. But all I can say, from the both of us, is that it was a
pleasure to have provided our time for the enjoyment of so many. This award is for all present and past members of the Mars Cub Pack. Thank you for all the memories we now hold.” Chris Wells started his Scouting journey in 1985 as a Cub, a Scout, a Venture Scout and a Scout Leader in the West Country before moving to Biggleswade in May 2001. Within a couple of months he started his first role with Biggleswade Scout Group as Assistant Scout Leader for the Armstrong Scout Troop. He later moved to a role as Group Secretary, as well as working as a Training Advisor and a member of the Scout
County Training Team. In September 2007 he decided it was time to return to the front line and he became an Assistant Beaver Scout Leader at the Apollo Beaver Colony - a role he has now held for nine years. He said, “After 21 years I still get a great deal of enjoyment out of Scouting - it is a part of my life and I would miss it if I stopped. It is incredibly rewarding watching young people learn and grow. I also get a lot of satisfaction from working with other adult volunteers and helping them realise the joy of being involved with the Scout Movement.”
South Sea Iguana saved from extinction
HeLpInG to save a tropical iguana from extinction is now a badge of honour worn by the team at the english countryside setting of shuttleworth college. The ‘land-based’ college offers courses on animal welfare which includes species far beyond Uk farming stock. The special unit contains a representative of every family of animal on the planet. so it was sad day when the team found a rare Brachylophus Fasciatus, or Fiji Banded Iguana, had died in its tropical enclosure. But on moving the body they found three eggs buried in her terrarium home. Using all the experience of the staff, and support of students, the eggs were hatched and are now enjoying life as they grow into emerald green lizards. The trio have been micro-chipped and are now on an international register as breeding stock for future conservation projects as only 6,000 exist in the wild. “I was like a dog with two tails when all three hatched,” said long serving animal welfare educational expert carl Groombridge of shuttleworth college,
“We are so very proud of our success. These animals are very rare and to succeed in incubating and hatching them is a tribute to our team. The lizards can grow up to more than 2ft long to the tip of their tail and the males are a beautiful bright green with bands of added colour.”
It is not clear if the iguanas are male or female. If the latter they are especially valuable for breeding and the team are thinking they might call them kim, kourtney and kylie after the famous kardashian girls.
shuttleworth college has an international reputation for training farmers and throughout the Uk as a centre for all employment link to the land. It offers an animal Management Foundation Degree which can be topped up to a Bsc in animal science.
Mike Johnston Director of shuttleworth said: “I think this is something which would impress sir David attenborough. To think that here in our country park in the chilly Uk we have contributed towards helping save an endangered species native only to some islands of Fiji.
Animal Technician Chris Allen with one of the iguanas.
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New ‘Panel’ appointment
Woodfines appoints conveyancing specialist
WOODFInes solicitors have added a new legal specialist to their team for buying and selling homes. nicasio Dino will be supporting clients in their conveyancing matters from the firm’s base on st cuthbert’s street in Bedford. nicasio has extensive experience in all aspects of residential property, including house sale and purchase, transactions for first time buyers, and buy-to-let property, and is looking forward to using this expertise to assist Woodfines’ clients. Woodfines partner, David Webster, said: “We are delighted that nicasio has joined our team and look forward to continuing to provide a second-to-none conveyancing service to our clients.” To discuss your home sale or purchase requirements, please get in touch on 01234 270600 or email nicasio at ndino@woodfines.co.uk, or visit our website at www.woodfines.co.uk
THe Bedfordshire police and crime panel have unanimously recommended the appointment of Mark cooper to the post of chief of staff of the Office of the police and crime commissioner of Bedfordshire. On 23 september, the panel’s Host authority, Bedford Borough council, received formal notification from the commissioner’s Office of Mr cooper’s proposed appointment. By law, the panel is required to hold a confirmation Hearing - a meeting of the panel, held in public, at which the candidate for appointment is requested to appear for the purpose of answering questions relating to that appointment. This meeting is to take place in sufficient time to enable it to submit its report and recommendations in respect of the proposed appointment to the commissioner within three weeks of the day on which it received notification. The confirmation Hearing took place on 5 October at Borough Hall. commenting after the hearing, the panel’s chair, councillor Fiona chapman MBe, said: “The criteria used to assess the suitability of the candidate is rigorous and I would like to congratulate Mark on his appointment. Mark’s portfolio of experience, and general ability to produce extremely positive outcomes for the communities he serves, makes him a deserving candidate.” The report will be published on the panel’s webpages at: www. bedford.gov.uk/bedspcp
Lord-Lieutenant hails iCandy’s sweet success in Queen’s Award
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen nellis, has presented the Queen’s award for enterprise in International Trade to a Biggleswade-based business that she praised as “leading the world in ground-breaking technology and design”. In april 2016, the British pushchair brand icandy was named as a recipient of one of the most prestigious Uk awards for business performance in a global market that sees one of their products sold every 12 seconds. While it highlights that confidence remains high in British products following the eU referendum, the company has also had a positive effect on the local community. With growing demand for icandy products, the business has helped create 65 jobs and played a fundamental part, along with central Bedfordshire council, in establish• aged six months to under 65 years in ing Biggleswade as an area ripe for clinical risk groups investment; with new housing • pregnant women developments and a thriving town • aged 65 years and over centre now at the centrepiece of the • in long-stay residential care homes town. • carers (not occupational) On Wednesday, august 31, the additional knowledge acquired by the clinical team, by attending regular Lord-Lieutenant, as her Majesty the training, ensures that care provided for Queen’s representative, attended a patients is at the highest level. Having special celebration day held at a wide range of skills within the icandy World’s Bedfordshire headclinical team, enables us to offer a quarters along with one of her range of appointments across the team Deputy Lieutenants, professor Les to accommodate patient need. ebdon, cBe DL. We continue to look to offer new To acknowledge the company’s services to patients as they become success in the Queen’s awards, the available. Lord-Lieutenant presented joint We recently procured a new tele- ceOs of icandy, Bradley and phone system. The new system pro- Warren appel, with a crystal vides a queuing system which was a engraved bowl and a certificate of facility requested by patients. We are also now able to record calls for staff her Majesty’s Warrant, signed by the training and quality. In order for us to Queen and former prime Minister deal with your call most efficiently, David cameron. HM Lord-Lieutenant of please ensure you listen carefully to all the options before making your selec- Bedfordshire, Helen nellis, said: “It was a great pleasure to present this tion.
Name change for health centre
Dr kirkham and partners - The Health centre - Dr kirkham, senior partner at the practice for many years, began his retirement at the end of last year. Dr amanda Taylor took up the position of senior partner from the beginning of 2016. as a result of this change, the name of the practice will also be changing as of 1st november. The partners have chosen a generic name to ensure continuity going forward. The practice will now be called saffron Health partnership. Our telephone number and email address remain unchanged. We do have a new website www.saffronHealth partnership.nhs.uk Our team continues to grow and develop, with our nursing team being able to offer patients expertise in managing a wide variety of chronic and acute conditions and providing valuable health promotion and monitoring services. We are currently able to provide the annual seasonal influenza vaccine for patients who are:-
NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 19
most prestigious award on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen. icandy have an outstanding track record of success over many years and a dedicated, talented and creative workforce who are leading the world in ground-breaking technology and design. It is fantastic that they have chosen Bedfordshire as their global headquarters and I wish them every success in the future.” icandy Joint ceO and Founder, Bradley appel said: “We are absolutely delighted and honoured to have been presented with the Queen’s award for enterprise in International Trade. This award is part of an incredibly exciting and successful year at icandy and I would like to thank the LordLieutenant and her team for visiting us to share in the celebrations. “We are extremely proud to be a British company, and this Queen’s award highlights that luxury British products are internationally in such high demand. now, more than ever, it is crucial for Britain to maximise export opportunities and at the same time champion and support Great British brands. “In the 1960s there was an ‘I’m Backing Britain’ campaign and we fully believe in that sentiment as much today. Getting behind and believing in British brands ourselves can only serve to promote Brand Britain, globally. icandy pushchairs are now gracing the homes of parents all across the world and the icandy name has become synonymous with quality, style and Great British design. This makes my brother Warren and I so very proud. “But it’s not just the fantastic product that sets icandy apart. We have a team of dedicated, professional, knowledgeable and truly passionate people that have helped us to get where we are today.”
20 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
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T
AROUND THE CLUBS
He chairman, ann Taylor, after welcoming members to st andrew’s church chapter House on Tuesday 11th October for their annual General Meeting, introduced Gill reeves who was Biggleswade community agent. she had been appointed by Beds rural communities charity and funded by Bedford Borough council. Gill explained that she can help you access a range of services and support you may need. she is available on the phone or can visit you at home. ann thanked her for attending the meeting. The meeting resumed and ann thanked Brian and Jean for organising the Beetle Drive at the last social afternoon which had been thoroughly enjoyed. Book group 1 will meet on Monday 7th november at Jean William’s house. Book Group 2 met on 14th October at Jane MacDonald’s house. The Music Group meet on Tuesday 15th november at Val Mcsweeney’s house. The sunday Lunch club meets at The Five Bells, Henlow on sunday, 6th november at 12 noon. anne Jones told the members about the christmas Lunch which has been booked for Wednesday 14th December at The Wheatsheaf, Tempsford. The cost will be £11.00 and a deposit of £5.00 is required. numbers are limited so members are urged to book their places. There was a break for refreshment and delicious cakes supplied by the committee. after the break Brian Tobin , substituting for the president, eric Lund, began the annual General Meeting. The Minutes from 2015 were read and there were no matters arising. The Treasurer, sally clements, gave her report. The accounts had been audited and she thanked Thelma rogers for her excellent care of the accounts before she handed them over. The chairman, ann, gave her report thanking all the committee members for their hard work and the members for their support. The committee members and executive were reelected en-bloc with the additional of audrey Yaxley. Diane keen, who had retired from the committee, was thanked for all she had done over the years. chris Davies gave the members a choice of theatre trips at Milton keynes and several shows were selected. The raffle was drawn and there were many delighted winners. The proceeds from this closed the charity for the year.
IVEL VALLEY U3A
BIGGLESWADE TOWN COUNCIL COMMUNITY GRANTS
The Town council acknowledges the important contribution that community clubs and Organisations make to enrich and improve the quality of life for so many residents in Biggleswade. In order to support the operation and development of these valuable services, the Town council has limited funds available to support those clubs and Organisations in their work. In this respect, the Town council would be pleased to receive applications for financial assistance from community clubs and Organisations in Biggleswade. application forms can be downloaded from our website; www.biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk completed forms should be sent to our office at the address below. alternatively, requests for an application form should be addressed to: Biggleswade Town Council 4 Saffron Road, Biggleswade SG18 8DL By telephone on 01767 313134 or By email at enquiries@biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk FORMS WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 1 NOVEMBER 2016 Your completed application form should be returned to the council Offices no later than 31st December 2016 please note that it will not be possible to consider your application after this date. BIGGLesWaDe TOWn cLerk
c
BIGGLESWADE IVEL EVENING TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD
HaIrMan chris Davies welcomed members to the meeting on Monday, October 10. The september walk started at the embankment in Bedford for a walk around priory marina, lunch followed at the Blossom cafe, Willington. Forthcoming events are remembrance Day service and parade
sunday, november 13; stratton House for the guild anniversary dinner on Thursday, november 17. Federation carol service December 3 at Walsworth church, Hitchin and national carol service at ely cathedral December 8. an invitation to attend the 60th anniversary of stevenage Broadhall has been received. angela Williamson appealed for scarves, any shape or size but not woollen, to donate to a company in stevenage that turns them into turbans for people suffering with hair loss following cancer treatment. The speaker for the evening was Mary Dominey who gave a very interesting and entertaining pictorial talk of Biggleswade. Her subjects were divided into letters of the alphabet and ranged from arches, doors and graffiti to windows. The talk was a superb illustration of the many interesting features, mostly located around the town centre and more often missed as we hurry along going about our daily business. . The next meeting will be held on the Monday, november 14 when the speakers will be Heather & Gordon with a talk entitled ‘audio visual display’. The competition will be for ‘something beginning with s’. The guild meets on the second Monday of the month 7.30 pm at the Weatherley centre.
T
ROYAL ARTILLERY ASSOCIATION
He Biggleswade Branch of the royal artillery association held a Branch Meeting on 5th October 2016, at the sea cadets Hall. There were ten members and one guest present. The chairman recited The royal artillery prayer. apologies were received from three members. The minutes of the september meeting were read. Gill reeves the newly appointed community agent, gave a presentation on her role. an official invitation to 16 regiment reunification Day has been received and seven members have expressed an interest in attending at Thorney Island. The visit to the Defence academy at shrivenham will be re-arranged for next spring. It was decided to change the date of the christmas Lunch to 9th December at the conservative club. The Treasurers report was received. The chairman stated that a standard Bearer for remembrance Day was still required. The royal artillery association exists to look after the welfare of and foster comradeship between members of the royal artillery both serving and retired. ex-service personnel of other arms or regiments who wish to share the camaraderie are welcome. The Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at the sea cadets Hall, Biggleswade starting at 14.30hrs. (next Meeting Wednesday 2nd november). please contact the chairman Ted Mckenzie on 07900 806235 or email: tiger-ted@gmail.com for more details.
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NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 21
GARDENING – NOVEMBER
eVerY year at this time, I implore gardeners to start protecting their valued plants against the frost; indeed, we have already had two consecutive days of a light frost in mid-October so, get your horticultural fleece, hessian or bubble wrap at the ready and remember to cover any plants you are worried about losing. That said, the overall temperature is still relatively warm and so it is still an ideal time to plant shrubs and trees. keep well-watered and any growth is likely to be with the roots which is precisely what one would hope for. plants take their moisture and food via the roots which of course also bind them to ground. The more roots, the more moisture and food the plant can take in which obviously allows the plant to prosper all the more. Want to make compost but never really done it? a garden shredder makes light work of much of the material found in garden and can accelerate the breaking down of it so can be well worth the investment. If you are thinking of buying one, make sure to check what the maximum size of the material to be shredded is and relate this with what you have in your garden since this is one of the ways the machines are priced. as a basic rule of thumb, the bigger the diameter one can shred, the bigger the price. as with all tools, you get what you pay for but word of mouth is very useful so check, if you are able to, web site reviews before committing to purchase. If you are building a bonfire for this year’s Guy Fawkes do please spare a thought for the hedgehog
Biggleswade Community Agent
(the baby one pictured was found in northill). Try and leave the construction of any fire until the very last minute as hedgehogs can often view a pile of wood as the perfect place to dwell. should this happen, tragically, it won’t only be chestnuts and potatoes that are roasted as you enjoy the fireworks! The answer to last month’s just for fun question is, Forget Me nots are known by this name because their true colour is said to be turquoise which is, the colour in romantic jewellery that signifies permanence hence forget me not! another theory is its name was borrowed from the German
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Vergissmeinnicht, and first used in english in 1398. a post script to this question is that amazingly, I have already seen a number in flower at one of my regular clients’ in Hertfordshire which is many months earlier than one would expect. This month’s question is, you clear all vegetation from your garden at this time of the year and then put down a layer of slug pellets; why is this a very bad idea? as usual, many thanks for your kind words and correspondence and please contact me with any gardening tasks or queries you may have, lawndocgardens@aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855.
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email: jstone@ovenmen.com
email: ovenmen@live.co.uk parent company est. 1998
YOUr Biggleswade community agent has been in post since august. Working for Bedfordshire rural communities charity; the role is largely funded by Biggleswade Town council. Gill has been busy promoting the community agent role at Biggleswade groups/clubs and organisations. she has been helping residents of Biggleswade connect with services that can help them with the issues that they have been faced with. examples of this are problems with housing, wanting to know if they are entitled to particular benefits, wanting to get out more and being connected to a local group or volunteering opportunities. Gill is able to advise on feeling safer at home and generally assess if there are any other areas that may improve your quality of life, such as aids and adaptions. Gill has been visiting clients in their home to help fill out attendance allowance forms, she can help with Blue Badge and personal Independence payment forms. You may be eligible for attendance allowance if you are over 65 and have care needs at home. You don’t have to receive professional care to be eligible for this benefit, and it is often the case that a care-provider is a spouse or family member. people who claim the lower rate often need help with washing and dressing, and the higher rate reflects greater care needs during the day and night. ring Gill on 07534 484750 to find out more.
22 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Biggleswade ANNOUNCEMENTS 1. an announcement from the society’s new webmaster, David Wheeler: ‘On Tuesday, 4 October our new website went live. The improved and more modern layout makes it easier to navigate and adapts for viewing on mobile and handheld devices so that it can be easily browsed wherever you are. This has been achieved through the use of a powerful on-line tool called Wordpress which is an Open source software system used extensively around the world to create elegant websites and blogs. In fact, it powers over 26% of the whole web. Virtually all the content held on the old website has been transferred to the new site with only minor editing to improve readability. We are indebted to russ Horne of Hornet creative for leading the technical side of the project.’ please note that the web address remains the same as before. readers will find it at the foot of this page. 2. The March Hare in november! Last month we announced that our president ken page would be giving a talk in the March Hare at Dunton about the history of brewing and pubs in the Biggleswade area. The date given was incorrect and should have read ‘Tuesday, 15 november’. We apologise for the error. This is an open event organised by the March Hare and there is no entrance fee, so readers are welcome to come and hear the talk for the price of a drink or two in good company. The talk begins at about 8.00pm. Having spent his whole life in Biggleswade and his working life at the Biggleswade Brewery, ken speaks with the authority of personal experience and knowledge gained by thorough research into his subject. He has authored two publications, ‘The story of Biggleswade Brewery’ and ‘Thirsty Old Town - The story of Biggleswade pubs’, which will be available on the evening, or may be purchased from the society at £1.50 each (see the publications section for how to order). Mark the date in your diaries! 3. story in stone. This community project for sandy, potton and Biggleswade made available by central Bedfordshire council as part of a £4 million market town regeneration scheme is about to take off. a professional mosaic artist has now been appointed and work will soon begin, involving members of the local communities in the design and production of a series of wall-mounted mosaic panels to tell aspects of the histories of the three towns. The project, which is expected to be completed in 2018, now has a website where readers can find information: www.storyinstone.org.uk 4. portillo on our patch! You may have read in a local newspaper last month an article about Michael portillo, in which we learned that he had recently returned to our TV screens on Tuesday evenings with his BBc2 series, ‘Great continental railway Journeys’. There was no mention then that he would soon be filming in the Biggleswade area, but our spies reported spotting him at the shuttleworth ‘race Day and roaring Twenties’ show on sunday, 2 October and, on the next morning, outside the surfin’ café on Biggleswade Market square, having just finished filming in the town. sporting his trademark brightly coloured clothing and with his Bradshaw railway guide tucked under his arm, he dashed off afterwards to catch a train. – He does a lot of that sort of thing! We were told to expect the finished product to be televised early next year, presumably as part of a new series of ‘Great British railway Journeys’. 5. The 73-minute 2009 ‘Three Market Towns’ DVD featuring Biggleswade, potton and sandy past and present is still available to members and nonmembers at £15, payable on ordering. It can be delivered free of charge to Biggleswade addresses or mailed for an extra £1.00 per copy to cover postage
and packing. readers can order by posting a 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. 6. The society’s next slot on the BigglesFM Thursday Breakfast show will be 8.30 - 9.00 on 24 november. Tune in to 104.8 or go to www.bigglesfm.com and click on Listen Live.
EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS 1. Did you see our display on the theme ‘Biggleswade schools’ in the town library? It ran from 27 september to 3 October. Our displays are planned and mounted by paul artiss with assistance from our archivist, sandra ransom, and her archive team. The next display, from 13 to 19 December, will feature local clubs and associations. There will be a reminder in the December issue of the Bulletin. 2. On the subject of Biggleswade schools, the society’s editor attended a reunion at stratton House Hotel on 15 October for former students of stratton school, from the 1960 intake. The event was organised by Jim cole, originally from a long-established Biggleswade family, who spent months tracing and sending out invitations to some 200 fellow Old strattonians. The event was a great success and was attended by about 80 former students now living in all parts of the country. Two even made the journey from australia, and one from sweden. Many had not met since leaving school 50 years ago. stratton school first opened in 1950 as a selective mixed grammar school, under the headship of Mr HrM Blayney until 1973. pupils aged 11-19 attended from all over mid-Bedfordshire and the Bedford area, including the villages to the north, most of them brought in daily by coach. In 1976 stratton became a comprehensive secondary school serving Biggleswade and some surrounding villages.
FROM THE ARCHIVES – Accessions We are grateful for the following donations received since last month: 1. from member ann rowlett, a presentation folder of information about her father, the late Gordon Baden alfred rowlett, market gardener of Biggleswade 2. from Linda Howlett, a copy of the 1977 silver Jubilee edition of the Biggleswade chronicle 3. for safekeeping from the Biggleswade probus club, which ceased operations last year, its presidential chain of office. The chain is engraved with the names of past presidents of the club.
PUBLICATIONS The society has a wide range of publications relating to the history of Biggleswade and its people and these are now permanently available to all members of the public at the same low prices offered to our members. Most of our publications may be purchased for just £1.00 each, and the 434-page a4 size Dan albone hardback is a bargain at the reduced price of £15.00 (plus £5.00 postage & packing if it is to be mailed) and is also on sale at the same low price at pedals cycle shop in shortmead street. Visit the society’s website for a price list and descriptions of the books. Telephone enquiries and orders to: paul artiss (01767 666187). MEMBERSHIP The society currently has 160 members, includ-
ing 11 new trial members who joined us in October. short trial membership ending on 31 March is still available and costs only £4.00. This entitles the new member to attend all meetings with speakers at no further cost. (The normal fee for non-member visitors is £3.00 per meeting.) also, a welcome pack with a gift of one of our publications will arrive, as will our big newsletter, delivered each month free of charge by email or by hand to most addresses in Biggleswade (or by post for a one-off payment of £3.00). Download a Membership application Form from the website (web address at the foot of the page) or simply come along to the next meeting and ask to join at the desk. MEETINGS The society meets in the chapel at Trinity Methodist church on the first Monday of the month, unless notified. Doors normally open at 7.30 for an 8.00pm start. Meetings are free to members; visitors are welcome at indoor meetings for £3.00 per meeting. In the summer months indoor meetings give way to a programme of evening walks and visits.
LAST MEETING 03 Oct: There was a bumper attendance of 59, including several new members, for the talk ‘Victorian river Life, 1880-WW1’ given by rodney Todman. Making good use of his extensive collection of early photographs taken in the st neots area, rodney concentrated largely on leisure pursuits on the river Ouse. Until the arrival of the railway in 1850, 95 per cent of all goods to st neots had been carried by river but there is no photographic record of this, since photography developed a little later. By the 1880s, when several photographers were recording life in this area, the river was being used principally for leisure. Mr Forscutt, a professional photographer with a shop in south street, photographed skaters on the frozen river and flooded Lammas Meadow during the hard winter of 1889, and keen amateur Mr Day of Day’s mill and brewery (where the priory centre is now) captured an ice hockey match. Taking a boat out on the river was a popular pursuit in late Victorian and edwardian times and photographs were shown of ladies and gentlemen in their sunday best sitting in rowing boats, the ladies most unsuitably attired in long skirts and ornate hats. Boats could be hired at the Half Moon beside the bridge (renamed The Bridge Hotel in 1912) or from Mr Gill’s boatyard, which opened in 1900. at Mr Gill’s one could not only hire a boat for anything up to a week – and some of them were very attractive houseboats with sun canopies on deck at £4 a week – but there were also entertainments and concerts on site, and for swimmers there was a slide that went into the river. PROGRAMME The programme for the remainder of the society’s current membership year will be: 07 nov: ‘a Year in the Life as High sheriff’ – a talk by colin Osborne MBe 14 Dec: (Wednesday) Members only christmas party at the conservative club 09 Jan: ‘potton’s Infamous Inhabitants of the past’ – a talk by peter Ibbett 06 Feb: ‘Bedfordshire convicts Transported 17701870’ – a talk by ken Griffin (‘convict ken’) 06 Mar: ‘Three Market Towns – Biggleswade, sandy and potton’ – a showing of the out-takes from the 2009 film, presented by Mike Fowler 03 apr: Members only annual General Meeting The programme for the remainder of 2017 will be published in due course.
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NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 23
History Society
A very uncommon common This article has been created by editing together three short pieces about Biggleswade Common that first appeared in the Biggleswade History Society Newsletters of February and March 2012. 1. Biggleswade common is an ancient area of grassland owned by The Lord of The Manor of Biggleswade and is the largest in Bedfordshire. The crown sold Biggleswade manor in 1807 to Francis Wiles for £2,180. He died in 1827, when he bequeathed the manor to peter Harvey Lovell and it passed to Francis Lovell who held the title in 1908, then to Miss Maud rosalind Lovell. The last holder was her nephew captain alec Francis who died in recent years. Trustees appointed under his will currently hold the title. The common can be approached from the Dan albone car park where a small cottage once stood. [see the photograph.] It was built as a tollhouse for the Biggleswade to alconbury turnpike road, and later used to accommodate the common Herdsman employed by the Fen reeves. starting from the Dan albone car park entrance, there are 120 acres of pasture to the west of the railway and, continuing in an easterly direction under the railway through the cattle arch there is an area of 142 acres through to potton road. crossing to the east side of potton road by the old chequers pub there is a further area of 32 acres known as the pastures. part of the common was ploughed up during the last war but has reverted to grassland. When pluto (pipe line under the ocean) was planned to supply the allied forces in France in 1944, part of it was laid under the common and is still used for petrol distribution. sewage pipes also run under and electricity supply lines cross over the common. The Great northern railway cut through in 1850 Herbage or whatever grows on top of the soil is the property of the common right Owners. There are 108 common rights, originally each for one horse, two cows and a breeder, attached to properties in Biggleswade. These are now in separate ownership and can be bought and sold. The Lindsell family of Biggleswade residing at Holme and Fairfield also owned sheep grazing rights but the Fen reeves purchased these some years ago. a body called the Fen reeves administers grazing etc. on behalf of the common right Holders. ancient titles are still in use. There is a steward, Deputy steward, Head reeve, acting reeve and four ordinary reeves making a total of eight people who look after the common. Qualification for any reeve is ownership of a common right. In practice nowadays, grazing rights are let out and a herdsman is employed. a yearly dividend is declared which all common right holders share. each common right now entitles a holder to graze four beasts.
The public did not always have right of access to the whole common except for public footpaths, which are all waymarked, but no objection was ever made to local people walking across the common. It is now covered by the countryside and rights of Way act (2000), the so-called ‘right to roam’, so all the common is now accessible to the public including the official footpaths and permissive paths. I understand that the Fen reeves actively cooperate with the Bedfordshire Farming and Wildlife Group and the Ivel & Ouse countryside project. The 21-mile kingfisher Way following the river Ivel from Baldock to Tempsford passes over the common. Ken Page, February 2012
2. On 7 February 2012 Dr David McOmish of english Heritage gave the society a fascinating talk: on the archaeology of Biggleswade common. english Heritage regularly assesses the risks to designated heritage sites. There are some 20,000 designated monuments in england
but it is estimated that a further 250,000 designatable monuments risk being compromised or lost. It is thought that one monument or archaeological site has been lost from the english landscape for every day since the end of the 1939-45 war. Little higher level fieldwork has been carried out on Biggleswade common but Dr McOmish has identified and noted many features in the course of his investigations, and he explained the significance of the common as part of a wider local landscape abounding in sites of archaeological importance. He quoted as examples Biggleswade’s medieval motte and bailey castle sited on top of an earlier neolithic enclosure; neolithic features dating to about 3,700Bc seen as crop marks on cultivated land at seddington; the monumental hill forts at Galley Hill, sandy Lodge and caesar’s camp just north of the common at sandy; the Iron age and roman town of sandy and its roadside settlement known to extend towards Biggleswade – and the place names stratton and stratford,
echoes of the existence of a roman road crossing the common to link the two. The Ivel valley fits a national pattern of big river valleys hosting human occupation over a very long period, and what makes Biggleswade common outstanding is the survival of its archaeological features from ancient times. among the features identified are a neolithic cursus enclosure, one of only 120 known in the country and thought to have had a ritualistic purpose, Bronze age barrows, several Bronze age ring ditches dating to around 2,500Bc, an extension of roman sandy, a suspected roman temple complex, a few romano-British enclosure complexes and some farm compounds representing occupation from earlier times through to the late medieval period. elsewhere features have disappeared, ploughed out or obliterated by human activity over time, especially in modern times, but, fortunately for Biggleswade, the common and its archaeology have survived as an island of ancient pasture within a more modern landscape. Those of us who have walked on the common cannot fail to have noticed the humps and bumps but it takes an expert with a trained eye to interpret them. 3. When David McOmish gave his talk he recommended a book. Impressed by the talk, I went away and bought a copy: ‘an archaeology of Town commons in england’ by Mark Bowden, Graham Brown & nicky smith, published by english Heritage in 2009. I wanted to know how important our common was and how it measured up to other surviving town commons in england. In 2002 english Heritage began a project to investigate the archaeological and historical value of surviving town commons in england, which they felt to have been largely neglected by historians and archaeologists and they perceived to be increasingly under threat. nearly 350 towns were identified as having, or once having had, common lands and of these a varied sample of some 60 surviving commons were selected for surveys. Biggleswade was one of those subjected to a level 1 (less detailed, lower technology) investigation. In short, at the back of the book, where the 350 towns are listed, the ones with the most promising evidence of archaeological survival are marked using a star system, four stars being the best. Biggleswade is one of only eight on the list to have been given four stars, along with the likes of York and Lincoln! To quote from the book: ‘at Biggleswade we have merely noted the existence of a potentially very significant surviving segment of prehistoric, romanoBritish and medieval landscape; large-scale survey work is required here to analyse and understand the detail of this remarkable multi-layered survival. Though rare, this is unlikely to be a unique instance.’ Jane Dale, March 2012
For further information contact: Jane Dale 01767 650340, editor@biggleswadehistory.org.uk www.biggleswadehistory.org.uk
24 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
sport
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FOOTBALL – BY MICHAEL DRAXLER
I
IF !
SLOUGH TOWN ............................3 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ..............0 F it had not been a 3G pitch, IF it had not been that slough are top of the league, IF Inih effiong’s second half free kick had gone in instead of hitting the bar. There are so many IFs. slough play a slick passing game and pulled the Wader’s defence out of shape on three occasions from which they scored, two in the first period adding a third late on. slough were better than us. Too many players having, by their own standards a quiet day. add into the mix that effiong is not 100% match fit and the result is 3-0.
Y
All over in first eight
ST.IVES TOWN ..............................0 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ...............1 OU have to have a certain amount of sympathy for the radio cambridgeshire reporter for this game was all over inside eight minutes. sitting next to the gent in question, his commentary was not a blow by blow but just a quick comment every 15 minutes or so but by the time the 90 was up it all became very repetitive. It all started so good and as you would expect saints took up the early pace and pressed. Inside three, saint’s Jack Higgs had our man performing miracles with a cleanly hit shot from 25 metres. Our man stretched and diving to his right pushed the ball round the post. That was the sum total of the
saints attack. Five minutes later found connor Hall threading a ball through from the halfway line into the path of Inih effiong. Getting back to match fitness Inih ran on, beat a defender before lashing the ball past a surprised keeper. That was the sum total of the Wader’s attack. possession belonged to st.Ives but with callum Lewis back in at right fullback the Waders were not up for conceding, with Hoyte, short and perry all putting in a shift that saw our man a mere spectator. saints really did need a miracle for they lacked invention or penetration of any kind. The game was over after eight but we all sat through the other 82 grateful that it was a fine warm evening. not much to recommend in this game but the three valuable points.
It don’t get a lot better than that
F
BIGGLESWADE TOWN ...............2 REDDITCH UNITED ....................0 Or those of you who read the nLp report for yesterday’s game you will note a marked difference. The nLp insist on a reporting of the facts and figures not taking into account that the best four players for the Waders were the back line. report that in 220 words and it looks like we had our backs against the wall. and, clearly we did not redditch arrived at the Langford road stadium, seventh in the league and with a fierce reputationand a centre back stretched to nearly seven foot tall. From the off Waders played an uncharacteristic high line but to great effect. connor Hall whistled a shot
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
wide after three minutes and Biggleswade kept up a relentless pressure. at the Other end Big Gavin Hoyte, russell short, callum Lewis and Lucas perry dealt with everything coming their way. Hoyte’s heading distance and timing has dramatically improved over the past few weeks and Big Gav was certainly leading that back line so well. Our man between the sticks had one shot to save over the 90. such was the dominance and imposed will of the Wader’s defenders. redditch used to the 3G home pitch passed the ball sweetly with not a lot of forward movement, anything airborne was gathered by Hoyte or short and the redditch machine was stopped in its tracks. On 15 craig Daniel started the move with Hall and parker both involved, craigy D got the ball back to shoot low to the keepers right for a deserved lead. 15 more and Daniel grabbed his brace for the afternoon. starting on the left connor Vincent whipped the ball off the fullback’s toes, passed inside to Inih effiong who pushed onto a surprised craig Daniel to find the back of the net with the simplest of chances. The Waders pressed on as the redditch heads dropped, unbelieving that they were being so contained. after the break Biggleswade continued in the same way. I feel certain that a fully match fit effiong would have buried the three chances he had one to one with the keeper, but the keeper did well on all three occasions. How many times is effiong going to hit the bar this season? In the last three games his powerful free kicks have stung the opposition bar and gone away to safety. The only success for redditch came in the 60th minute when Johnson unleashed a shot that our man did brilliantly to push round
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the post. That was it, our man a mere spectator for most of the game. Its always great to win but in such style is fantastic. no hesitation in naming the whole back line as men of the match. Well done Gavin, russell, callum and Lucas.
Unlucky Waders see the point – just
a
BIGGLESWADE TOWN ...............2 KETTERING TOWN.....................2 BLasT from the past came to town last evening. One of the several “BIG” teams of yesteryear who arrive at the Langford road expecting the small town team to roll over but as shown before the Waders are no respecter of past glories. kettering had the early game and their fast running forwards Hicks and Brighton were certainly lively. kettering went ahead on 9 via a free kick when James Brighton stroked the ball through the Waders wall and wide of our man Brown , for a peach of a goal. Onwards in time and with the Waders pressing the poppies backwards, a break saw nathan Hicks collect the ball and out manoeuvre Ian rees to somehow get the ball past our man to make it 2-0 by 23 gone. The visiting supporters were in fine voice at the far end of the ground. 6 minutes later and Inih effiong receives a through ball from connor Hall, Inih sidesteps the keeper and from a tight angle plants the ball firmly for 2-1. With the Wader tails up, the boys in green were starting to lay siege to the kettering goal, notice of what was to come after the break. The second 45 belonged to Biggleswade, apart from a couple of corners kettering posed no danger although nerves jangled just a bit. effiong, parker and Daniel all had clear chances and the Waders could have racked up five. The clock ticked away and the deficit still there Manager nunn sent on Tony Burnett the mast magician to try his luck down the left. a few minutes later kweko Lucan came on to offer pace down the right. somehow and the view was blurred by players kweko got the ball into the box to find Burnett to slide the ball under the advancing keeper. kettering heads dropped they had defended so well for 45 but the equaliser was just rewards for a brilliant second half display from the home team.
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NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 25
BOWLS
back in May and reached their climax when the final matches were played in september:Ladies championship – Marilynn Wiltshire beat rita Moakes Ladies Two Wood championship – Gill Backhouse beat Marilynn Wiltshire Ladies Invitation pairs – Marilynn Wiltshire and Tony Hoar beat elsie Baxter and Ted Houldey Men’s championship – John Stott beat Mac Mccavery Men’s Two wood singles – Kevin Hilditch beat Mac Mccavery Men’s pairs championship – Malcolm Ede and Mike Andrews beat Bob spicer and arthur Turner Handicap singles – Peter Williams beat Mike adams Intermediate singles – Malcolm Ede beat Joyce Bilcock Memorial Trophy – Arthur Turner, Ron Bot and Reg Oldfield The green has now been closed for the winter, but we will be welcoming several new players next april and perhaps you may wish to join them to learn to play this most enjoyable, friendly and relaxing game at the st andrew’s Bowls club in Biggleswade.
St Andrew’s Bowls Club Finals Day
s
parkLInG september weather gave st andrew’s a great day to play their club Finals, and leading the way were Marilynn Wiltshire and rita Moakes, who played out an enthralling Ladies championship match, while Mary McDonald managed the technicalities of the game. after struggling to replace several lady players who had retired over the past few seasons, it was gratifying to see that several of our novice players were reaching the finals and showing that our recruitment programme was beginning to pay off. Gill Backhouse, elsie Baxter, rita Moakes and Joyce Bilcock have shown that it is possible to start from scratch and become competent players at st andrew’s. In the men’s ranks, most of the finalists were our seasoned players, but joining us from Welwyn Garden city Bowls club this year, Malcolm ede has quickly established himself as a key member both on and off the green. The winners and losing finalists from the competitions which started
GOLF
O
George Hay had winning swing
n the 14th October, George Hay took part in the annual Biggleswade rotary club charity Golf Day, held at John ‘O’ Gaunt Golf club. The George Hay Team, comprising Tony newman, richard Dilley, keith Middleton and phil Blackburn, had the winning swing out on the course, and were crowned this year’s winners. Three teams, including George Hay, all scored a total of 116 points; the winner is then decided ‘on countback’ which means the team with the highest score over the last nine holes’ wins – with a one-point lead, George Hay took the top spot, and were awarded brand new golf jumpers for their efforts! Tony newman, partner at George Hay said: ‘We are thrilled to have won the tournament, particularly with it being such a close call between the top three teams, and we very much look forward to taking part in future events for charity.” The event raised funds for keech Hospice care, and a number of other rotary charities, with over £3,000
being raised on the day. Donations held in the clubhouse, which folcame from players and guests, as lowed the tournament. well as the majority from an auction, The event was a great success,
and the day was enjoyed by all who took part, both on and off the course.
Biggleswade Rotary Club President, Frank, congratulates the George Hay Team.
26 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
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out & about The Biggleswade branch of The Royal British Legion and Biggleswade Town Council extend a cordial invitation to the residents of Biggleswade to attend this year’s
REMEMBRANCE DAY PARADE AND SERVICE SUNDAY 13th NOVEMBER 2016 at the WAR MEMORIAL, MARKET SQUARE, commencing at 10.45 am. –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– We invite all stroke survivors & their sanDY HIsTOrIcaL sOcIeTY THE IVEL carers to join our 7.30pm Friday November 25th BIGGLESWADE BEREAVEMENT Stonecroft Hall, St Swithins Way, Sandy WALK FOR HEALTH IVEL STROKE CLUB SUPPORT CENTRE CHICKSANDS Meetings are held at stonecroft, Two regular Weekly Walks 40-90 minutes plus one for those who wish to go further Wednesdays at 10.00am Walking with John and his team Meeting at Dan albone car park, shortmead street, Biggleswade (With stop for tea & coffee after the walk) Thursdays at 10.00am Walking with rosario and his team Meeting Outside stratton school Gates, Biggleswade JUsT TUrn Up For those looking to do more: Tuesday at 2.00pm a Medium to Fast Walk of 1.5 – 2hrs ring Janette for details For further details please contact: Janette sibley: Tel: 0777 154 0117 e-mail: janette@sibley.me.uk Mike Fayers, Bedfordshire Health Walks Manager, Bedfordshire rural communities charity Tel: 01234 832619 e-mail: mikef@bedsrcc.org.uk, The Old school, cardington, Beds. Mk44 3sX
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.
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CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
BIGGLesWaDe anD sUrrOUnDInG VILLaGes We are a group for cancer patients their families and friends. a place to meet others and share mutual support. come and have a chat, a cup of tea or coffee in a friendly, informal confidential environment. We look forward to meeting you. every first and third Thursday of the month. The community rooms, Baptist church 24, London road, Biggleswade sG18 8eB 1pm - 3pm Telephone, secretary amanda 01767 313662 or Gina 07812796581 csgbiggleswade@gmail.com FB. cancer support Group Biggleswade.
Has a LOVeD One DIeD? perhaps we can help you at our drop-in centre at:
The Community Rooms, Baptist church, 24 London Road, Biggleswade SG18 8EB Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon Telephone: Carole or Jill on 07704 734225 for more information. • a place of friendship, compassion and understanding. • Fully trained bereavement support volunteers are always on hand to listen while you talk through your grief. • somewhere to meet others coping with bereavement issues. • come and make new friends – a warm welcome awaits you.
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CHARITY
FASHION SHOW
M & co Biggleswade are hosting a charity fashion show in aid of cancer research uk Tickets £5 from the store or on the door Includes wine and nibbles plus 10% off full price purchases
6.30 Thursday 17th November
PRIORY 1000 YEARS OF HISTORY
by Damien Odell Visitors welcome. admission £2.00 including refreshments .Members Free For further details please contact chairman nigel aldis 01767 691333.
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SANDY ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Founded in 2014 by residents of sandy and surrounding areas, we are a group of keen astronomers of all abilities. We meet on the first Thursday of every month at Mamas coffee shop (High street, sandy) and have regular viewing sessions on the grounds of sandye place academy. You don’t need to own a telescope to join in. club members are always willing to share their equipment and expertise, and if you become a member our club telescopes are available for hire for a small fee. Wrap up warm and we’ll see you there!
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NOVEMBER 2016 BULLETIN — 27
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ASTRONOMY TALK at Sandy Conservative Bowls Pavilion Wednesday 16th November at 7.30pm Organised by sandy Horticultural association £2.50 members 3.50 visitors. Optional two course meal afterwards. To book meal contact 01767 680983/681457 see website at www.thesandyshow.org
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CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 3rd-4th December St Swithun’s Parish Church, Sandy Dozens of glittering trees displayed by the community Music and refreshments on both afternoons. The ST SWITHUN’S SINGERS will perform at 2pm Saturday. For more details contact corinne Hetherington 01767 68135 sanDY HIsTOrIcaL researcH GrOUp (sHrG) will host a
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QUIZ
General Knowledge and Sandy Local History Quiz on Tuesday 8th November, 7.30pm at the Sandy Village Hall Be part of a Team and see if you ‘know Your Onions’ entry is free. The quiz will be preceded a short and snappy AGM: a chance for SHRG Members to say what they think. Tea and biscuits will be available. sanDY LeprOsY MIssIOn’s
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CHRISTMAS CONCERT
with the stotfold salvation army Band and other local groups Wednesday 7th December at 7pm St. Swithun’s Parish Church Tickets available from colin Osborne (tel. 01767 682032) at £4 each.
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CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR AND ART DISPL AY GAMLINGAY ECO HUB STOCKS LANE, GAMLINGAY SG19 3JR 10 am – 3pm, Sunday 13 November start your christmas shopping with our fabulous Fair which will feature over 30 stands packed with christmas presents, jewellery, stocking fillers, christmas decorations and much more! all are handmade from local makers. The fair will also feature an art Fair with demonstrations. We have fun for the children, hot chocolate, mince pies and mulled wine for the grown ups and a raffle. adults £1 (includes a raffle ticket) children under 16 free.
TENNIS FOR BEGINNERS
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children – adults seniors experienced players aLL WeLcOMe Jack: 01767 692242
www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk
sT JOHn’s HOspIce
sanDY FLOWer cLUB Starts 7.30pm Monday 14th November
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CHARITY BALL 12 November – 7pm – 1.00am
Our yearly ball will be taking place at The park Inn Hotel Bedford. Get your glam rags ready and register your interest. For further info call 01767 642412 Email: stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org admission £4. concessions £3. accompanied children under 16 free.
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
A PRACTICAL EVENING
Floral foam and midelino sticks will be supplied. please bring a pot 6”/15cm in diameter and flowers and foliage of your choice. Visitors welcome at £5.00 entrance on the door. There will be a raffle and tea and coffee. We meet at the conservative Bowls club pavilion (rear of the conservative club, Bedford rd.) The Flower club meets every second Monday in the month at 7.30pm and new members are always welcome. For more information please call: sue alexander: Tel. 01767 699729 or email: sue.e.alexander2@gmail.com
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28 — BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
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CHRISTMAS FAIR BrITIsH reD crOss BeDFOrDsHIre,
Saturday 19th November, 10.30am – 4pm,
entry Fee £4 The programme will include demonstrations, tastings, and book signings. Live performances by local school choirs. stalls will be selling superb, quality items and many handmade gifts and products. Homemade cakes and refreshments available, raffle, tombola and much more. The Great Hall, Bedford Boys School, Burnaby Road, off De Parys Ave., Bedford, MK40 2TU. parking/disabled parking available.
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MAYFLOWER SOCIAL CLUB
We are a social club for the over 50’s and we are located at charter House at st andrews church in Biggleswade. We meet every Wednesday and Fridays from 2pm – 4pm We have various activities including games, raffles, bingo and often have a speaker attend to share different topics with us. We also organise day trips out, christmas dinner and much much more. We are a friendly group of all different ages, all are welcome and we are always looking for new members. There is an entrance fee of £1 per person. There is a bus service available in the Biggleswade area for a nominal fee of £1.00, which is a return journey. For any other information please call 01767 314652 and ask for Beryl or 01767 316711 and ask for eileen. MUMs’ anD DaDs’
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BUGGY FIT CL ASSES
Mondays, St Andrews Church (room attached to the side of the church) 1.30pm–2.30pm £2 per session a sociable friendly class for anyone wanting to exercise with or without their babies. The class offers mums and dads the opportunity to exercise with their buggy in a safe and inclusive environment. The class comprises of a warm up and cardiovascular exercise to energise and help improve fitness, body weight and light resistance work to help strengthen and tone, followed by a cool down element so you leave feeling ready to take on the world! please contact the physical activity Team for more information at physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
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SANDY TOWN BOWLING CLUB
welcomes new members young and the not so young of all abilities. sanDY VILLaGe HaLL enGaYne aVenUe. season starts May to september. We play many friendly games through the season mostly of which are mixed (male and female!) First year only membership is £10. match fees vary. For further information please visit www.sandytownbowlingclub.com or contact Glen on 01234 870488
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ‘GIFTS FOR ALL OCCASIONS CRAFT FAIR #6 - CHRISTMAS SPECIAL’ Sunday 13 November (11am-3pm) Weatherley Centre, Biggleswade 60+ stalls, raffle, refreshments and special appearances from star Wars’ r2D2, Marvel’s Iron Man & Father christmas Minion! also attending will be a petting Farm. see more at www.bit.ly/GFaOcFn6 ––––––––––––– OLD scHOOL ‘GOOD TIMes’ presenTs
I LOVE THE 80s & 90s
Friday 16 December 2016. (9pm-1am). The White Hart, Biggleswade. all the very best music from the 1980s and 1990s. at just £3 per ticket. all events, raising money for a Luke newman, reece newman & steve newman’s trip to st. Trizah school in nakuru, kenya. Helping children living in the slums via teaching, playing, building and renovating. I’m (Luke) abseiling 110 feet down Jurys Inn Hotel in Derby! I’m not very good with heights, so this is a big deal for me! Unfortunately there isn’t any big buildings in Biggleswade, so I’m going to Derby instead! For more information on my trip, visit my page titled ‘educate everyone everywhere’ via www.facebook.com/Lneeeaa If you feel that you could sponsor me, please visit www.bit.ly/Lrsnaa.
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TABLE TENNIS
Tuesdays, Saxon Pool and Leisure Centre 1.30pm-2.30pm £1.50 per session please contact the physical activity Team for more information at physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
WALKING FOOTBALL
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– We are a social mixed group who meet every Thursday night at stratton school to play Badminton, from 8pm till 10pm in the sports Hall, we are of mixed ability but most are of an intermediate standard To find out more please contact Alan on 07974187866 or Colin on 01767 317099
BADMINTON
TENNIS
Over 50s Non-competitive Tennis players Two players needed to join us for doubles tennis on Wednesday mornings in Letchworth for six months while our regular opponents take a rest. Indoor court booked from 10-11:30am. For further advice/information contact 01767 691537.
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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
EMERGENCY LIFE SUPPORT FOR ALL
St John’s Ambulance HQ Crab Lane, off Chestnut Ave, Biggleswade 9am-12.30pm Saturday November 19, 2016
One day, three hour course in St John’s Essential First Aid Suitable 12yrs upwards for those wishing to update their First Aid 3 Year Certificate, Difibribillator instruction. 12 students to a class (no fee to pay) Light refreshments provided
Des Ball, Biggleswade First Aid Club, 16 Saffron Road, Biggleswade SG18 8DJ Tel: 01767 313790
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Pre Christmas Lights switch on The annual BedfordBID pre Christmas light switch on is bringing Star Wars to Bedford this year! ‘Boogie Storm’ hit our screens last year on Britain’s Got Talent with their unique dance act as Storm troopers! They received Simon Cowell's golden buzzer and were placed 3rd in the whole competition. NOW Boogie Storm are coming to Bedford for a special performance on Thursday 24th November to get crowds excited before they head to the embankment for the light switch on and fireworks. There will be two opportunities to see them perform on stage at 4pm or 5.30pm on Harpur Square. A queueing system will be in place if you would like to meet them in person for a quick photo opportunity after their performances. Glitter Arty will also be offering free face painting along with a balloon modeller creating free Star Wars themed balloons too. From 2pm outside Boots, the beautiful Cairngorm Reindeer will be visiting the town once again for the afternoon. Santa will be joining them on their usual parade through the centre at 5pm. With this great line up of activity, come to town on the 24th November and enjoy the Christmas festivities before heading to the embankment for the fireworks and lights and of course not forgetting the start of late night shopping! For more information visit: www.lovebedford.co.uk
Christmas Tree Festival:
Stars at Christmas Wednesday 30 November – Sunday 4 December St Paul’s Church, Bedford 10am-5pm (Sunday 2pm-5pm) Admission £2.50, children free. Refreshments served. 60 trees decorated by local charities, schools, various groups and businesses. Children’s and community choirs daily. To be opened by the Lord Lieutenant and the High Sheriff.
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Christmas Concert Friday 2 December 7.30pm ‘Further Beyond Tango’ South American flavour with Adrian Varela. Tickets at www.bedfordhospitalcharity.org.uk/southamericaconcert Details for booking trees to decorate and concert tickets 01234 340163 admin@stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk or at: www.bedfordhospitalcharity.org.uk/treefest
www.lovebedford.co.uk www.lovebedfordoffers.co.uk
01234 404500