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COUNTY’S JUNKIES SPEND OVER £63 A WEEK ON DRUGS
Police forces from across the eastern region have renewed their focus on tackling illegal drugs as part of a Government-backed project led by Bedfordshire Police. as part of this project Bedfordshire Police analyst Scott Owen worked with partners to produce a ground breaking drugs market profile, the first research project of its kind by any UK police force. It found there are 34,000 people using illegal drugs in Bedfordshire, with up to £54 million spent on cocaine and around £59 million spent on cannabis every year. Bedfordshire Police also used funding from the home Office for a heroin and Crack action area (haCaa) project, coordinating work with different forces from across the region to counter the increased use of these Class a drugs. Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Lay, Bedfordshire Police’s head of serious and organised
crime and chair of the home Office’s drugs tactical working group, said: “this event marks another step forward in improving our response to illegal drugs. “Drugs drive demand across a whole range of public services, from healthcare and social services through to ourselves as a police force. “Gun crime and other serious violence is often fuelled by clashes between rival drugs gangs, while drugs can also be a motivator for things such as burglary. “We are leading the way nationally with some pioneering work on how we respond to the issue of drugs and the exploitation of vulnerable people, and are determined to ensure it has a lasting impact and helps rid our communities of this corrosive commodity.”
Call for QC’s findings to be made public
Kathryn holloway, Bedfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, with the backing of her former Chief Constable, Jon Boutcher has asked for Queens Council’s findings to be published. PPC holloway says: “Since raising a formal complaint concerning Bedfordshire’s Inspector of Constabularies, hMI Zoe Billingham, on 10 July 2017, I
have waited for more than two years for hMICFrS, the organisation which judges legitimacy and ethical behaviour in policing, to finally respond publicly. the Chief Inspector of Constabularies, Sir tom Winsor, has now published his interpretation of events, which I do not recognise. Sir tom engaged one of the most experienced QCs in the country to
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Members of Biggleswade Town Council attended the formal re-opening of The Stratton House Hotel on Monday, September 2, 2019. The hotel opened to the general public on Wednesday September 3. The Mayor of Biggleswade Councillor Madeline Russell carried out the reopening ceremony. She said: “It’s good to see this landmark building reopened in Biggleswade town centre, it’s also a measure of the confidence that the proprietors have in the town, I wish them every success.” The hotel had been closed since April and it was feared that it wouldn’t reopen which would have been a tragedy. The new owners have invested a considerable amount of money in all areas of the hotel – it’s got to be worth a visit!
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OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Parking machine break-ins Bedford dad takes on ‘gladiator’ challenge in tWO parking machines on Beverley Crescent, Bedford were broken into over one weekend, with attempts made on two more machines in the area. nearly £100 was taken from these two machines, making a total of around £2,600 stolen from parking machines in the Borough in 2019 alone. repeated instances of criminal damage to the Council’s parking machines is costing increasing
levels of taxpayers’ moneyapproximately £7000 since the start of 2019 alone. Cllr Charles royden, Portfolio holder for highways and transport said “It is outrageous that this criminal behaviour continues, and this crime goes beyond the money stolen from the machines. “On many occasions, it has cost the Council more in repairs to get the machines back up and running.”
Replacement kitchen doors
honour of local girl and much-missed colleague
GLaDIatOrS ready! Lucky and his gym friends are taking on a rough runner challenge a Bedford dad is gearing up for a gladiator-style challenge in honour of a little girl and a muchmissed colleague. revenue Control Officer Lucky Ladher, 39, who works for Govia thameslink railway, is raising money with his gym buddies for ‘Lulu’s Fight’ and Macmillan Cancer Support. Lulu is a six-year-old Bedford girl who was diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma at the age of four. She immediately had
chemotherapy and has also had immunotherapy. thanks to donations, she is taking part in a clinical trial in new york, which will hopefully reduce the chances of her cancer returning. Lucky said: “I have three girls – twins that are eight and an older one who is 10. I want to help as much as I can. In the area, everyone is doing something for Lulu. It could have happened to anyone’s daughter.” Lulu’s dad rob de Vries, 51, said: “We are, as a family, astounded with the way the people of Bedford have reacted to
Lulu and her story. So many people have set up events to support us in raising what seemed like a huge amount of money. the community have been simply amazing. People like Lucky are investing their time and energy in Lulu and that’s very touching.” Lucky and his friends are also raising money in memory of Lucky’s former colleague, a dis-
patcher at King’s Cross, who sadly died from bowel cancer last year. Lucky said: “he had been there for a number of years. We used to sit down and have a laugh and a joke. “If you have been working with someone for so long, you class them as your family. he also had two young kids – two young boys.”
Call for QC’s findings to be made public lead a lengthy independent investigation into my complaint; Mr tom Kark (the former lead counsel to the Mid Staffordshire Inquiry, who has practised as a barrister for approximately 37 years). yet instead of publishing Mr Kark QC’s independent report, Sir tom has chosen instead to publish his own findings. Bedfordshire Police’s former Chief Constable, Mr Jon Boutcher, also raised a formal complaint with hMICFrS concerning hMI Billingham and we are now calling on Sir tom Winsor to publish the executive findings of Mr Kark QC’s
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independent report concerning both of our complaints. We do not accept that sending hMI Billingham – a senior public official required by her terms of Engagement to observe the nolan Principles at all times – on a management course, is an appropriate sanction by her Majesty’s Chief Inspector in response to our complaints. Jon Boutcher and I will now be inviting the home affairs Select Committee to review this matter and to consider Sir tom’s handling of our complaints in the light of all of the evidence, together with the worrying lack of a transparent Complaints process at hMICFrS.”
Stephanie Hughes, Tiffany Sibbald and Lucky Ladher.
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Teaching excellence in fashion
COMInG up with creative designs which beat universities from across the UK in corporate clothing design is more than just a passing fashion at Bedford College. In 2017, 2018, and 2019 the hnD Fashion & textiles team took the top prizes at the national Professional Clothing International awards (PCIa) spotlight. International fashion icon Vivienne Westwood is a regular judge, who offers a chance of work experience at her fashion house alongside prize money of £1,000, - demonstrating that this is a seriously competitive platform. to add to the celebrations, for the first time this year (2019), students took part in the University of northamptonshire’s Fashion Show - exhibiting work, which according to one outside examiner equalled the university standard. the Programme and Pathway Leader behind this success is Elisa Bratton who has worked at the college for five years and has experience at other colleges and industry. It was her inspiration and hard work that has ensured her students at Bedford College won “the Best University” plaque in 2017 at the PCIa. Elisa commented: “these awards are a testimony to the continuous hard work and dedication of our students, they inspire me with their creativity and application.” Students benefit from university level training that is closer to home which combines creativity with practicality - as witnessed by the college’s success in the
PCa where protective clothing has to combine ‘industrial strength’ with wear-ability. head of Department for art & Design, alan Parsons added: “the success of our students is rooted in the passion and dedication of our lecturers. It underlines the value of our approach to vocational education where skills and craftspersonship are valued equally alongside the notions of creativity and academic achievement that are often the prime focus for universities. “at Bedford College, our curriculum model is a contemporary embodiment of the workshops in the technical Institutes, where students’ creativity and knowledge is underpinned with a selfsufficiency borne through practical skills and the result, as you can see, is a designer who can most effectively meet a client’s brief with a creative solution for future design problems. “this year, the work of our Ba students has been outstanding. an external examiner judging our work was singing our students praises. We are putting Bedford on the map now in the fashion world and our students have portfolios which are ‘employer ready’ which means when they come to find work they are ahead of the game.” Students who took part in the show at the University of northamptonshire were: Megan Wallis, Poppie robertson, Sophia Phillips and holly Varney-Lonsdale. Some of their work was exhibited at the harpur Centre, Bedford over the summer.
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
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OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
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thIS year Bedford-based Select travel holidays, home of Cruise Select, were selected as finalists for the Best Small Cruise agency award for the fourth time. On top of this one of their team has been singled as a finalist at the Cruise Star awards 2019. amy Wright has been shortlisted for both the travel agent Marketing Star and the travel agent rising Star awards. the awards shine a spotlight on the brightest and best talent in the cruise holiday sector – the ‘ones to watch’ in the industry. now in their fourth year, the awards are organised by Cruise trade news and the judging panel is made up of specialists and industry experts, together with the magazine’s editors. Earlier this year, amy was also a finalist at the 2019 travel agent achievement awards in recognition of her passion for touring and adventure holidays, but she says: “Cruising will always be an important part of who we are, and as Bedfordshire’s only accredited CLIa Cruise Master, cruising is another passion of mine, and it’s been an honour to be recognised for my work in cruising too.”
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The lady with the hat opens shop #5 The Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Mrs Helen Nellis performed the official opening of Bedford Daycare Hospice’s fifth shop. On Tuesday, September 10, 2019, the shop in Castle Road was officially opened. In attendance were members of the management team, volunteers and members of staff. The charity that helps people throughout Bedfordshire has shops in: Biggleswade, Bedford and Kempston.
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New Vice Principal of Bedford College Group, Karen Campbell KarEn will be responsible for apprenticeships, land-based learning, construction and StEM (science technology engineering and maths). this follows Karen’s experience as Director of Social Studies at the Group since 2018. Karen has worked at Bedford College for more than 10 years having started as additional Learning Support Manager and then head of Care Childcare and Counselling. She then went on to oversee health & Social Care, Child Care, Counselling, teacher training and access to hE, Prince’s trust, Learning Centres, pre-Employment training and was lead for adult Education. She joins Emma Lowe and Georgina ager as the three Vice Principals of the Group. retiring as Vice Principal this year is Mike Johnston, longstanding and respected leader of Shuttleworth College which merged with Bedford College in 2009 and is now one of the most successful land-based learning establishments in the country supporting the farming, rural and outdoor activity sectors. the Bedford College Group was formed in august 2017 as a result of the merger of Bedford College, including Shuttleworth College and the Bedford Sixth Form, with tresham College and its sites at Kettering, Wellingborough and Corby. the Group CEO is Ian Pryce CBE long-serving Principal of Bedford College.
BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
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OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Bedfordshire Festival of Music, Speech & Drama presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service VOLUntEErS from the Bedfordshire Festival of Music, Speech & Drama were presented with the Queen’s award for Voluntary Service (QaVS) at a ceremony held at the Swan hotel on 4th September 2019. the Lord-Lieutenant, helen nellis, presented the Festival with the QaVS in recognition of the volunteers’ dedication and commitment. It was a special occasion attended by many of the Festival’s volunteers, Sponsors and Friends. the Festival has supported the performing arts in Bedfordshire for many years by staging an
annual week-long event at the Corn Exchange Complex allowing singers, musicians and dramatists of all disciplines and ages to perform in public whilst receiving feedback from professional adjudicators who are specialists in their fields. the Festival, which is a Charity and is entirely self-funded, is run by a committee of volunteers and a part-time secretary. During Festival week in March, the Committee and a further group of over 50 dedicated volunteer stewards take over the Bedford Corn Exchange to manage the huge numbers of performers, teachers,
parents and local audience members. Last year there were nearly 2000 people taking part in over 150 classes covering different areas of the performing arts! Entrants vary from school singing and drama groups, to community choirs, world music groups and those just wanting an opportunity to be able to perform in public. It is also an ideal platform for those taking exams in the performing arts to be able to practice performing their piece of work in front of an audience in a wonderfully supportive environment. the award ceremony included several performances from musi-
cians and dramatists who performed in last year’s Festival and included: rebecca Woolley (singing), Eva Berman (speech & drama), aidan & alex Cham (cello) and Jonathan hosking (speech & drama) the Festival’s Chairman, Julia Smith(pictred below) said: this award is testimony to the hard work, dedication and commitment of all our volunteers, without whom the Festival simply would not be able to take place each year. We are extremely proud that we are the first Festival to ever receive such an accolade. the Festival is about to enter its 99th year! So the award also recognises how the Festival, one of the largest and longest-standing in the Country thanks to the amazing input of their volunteers over the years, has had the ability to evolve and change over time since its inception in 1921, and remains relevant to the needs of the Bedfordshire Community today. the Queen’s award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to local volunteer groups across the UK to recognise outstanding work done in their communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate the anniversary of the Whilstand stocks last Queen’s coronation is equivalent to an MBE for volunteer groups. the Festival is always looking for more volunteers, so if it sounds like something you would like to be involved with, please contact the Festival Secretary, alix Smith – festival@bedford-
shirefestival.org.uk however, just as importantly, Chairman Julia added:- “ We really hope that this award will help to raise awareness of this fantastic annual event in Bedfordshire’s cultural calendar, encouraging even more entries so that as we approach our Centenary we achieve record numbers of participants taking part to begin our next 100 years”. Indeed, the planning for this year’s Festival Week, which will take place from 7th – 14th March 2020, is well underway. the Syllabus showing the
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classes available and how to enter is already available to download from their website: www.bedfordshirefestival.org. uk. the Festival can accept entries not just from schools or teachers but from individuals and groups. all the detail is their syllabus. hard copies can also be picked up from a number of local stockists including the Corn Exchange Box office, the Music Centre tavistock Street, the Quarry theatre at St Luke’s, the Works and Waterstones in Bedford amongst others. Entries open soon, keep an eye on their website for updates.
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
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Newly-weds move into brand new retirement home
L-R Village Manager Louise Cottingham, Resident David Hope, Mayor Dave Hodgson, ExtraCare CEO Mick Laverty.
80-year-old David hope and his wife June, 83, are among those already feeling the benefits of a 230-home retirement village near Bedford, which was officially opened on tuesday, September 10, 2019. the couple, who met in november last year and married in april, were both keen to ensure their health ‘did not become a burden’ to their families, so moved into a rental apartment in July. Developed by retirement charity the ExtraCare Charitable trust, the village has homes for over 300 local residents and features an on-site shop, library, café bar, village hall, hairdressing and beauty salon, craft room, fitness suite and games room amongst 18 health and leisure facilities. Care is available for those who need support to remain independent in later life. David and June will join Bedford Borough’s Mayor, Dave hodgson, to cut the opening ribbon; David will speak about his and June’s recent move to the village.
“We came to the village and after being shown around I fell in love with the place immediately,” said David, who has fibrosis on his lungs, an incurable illness which means he will gradually lose his breath over time. “having care and well-being services available to us at the village is absolutely vital. If my wife’s health deteriorates it’s essential for us to know that there will be care on offer, as this will take a lot of pressure off our children as my fibrosis gets progressively worse.” Since moving to the village, David has set up a bingo club, which got a successful uptake of 39 players. “We also both join in with the quiz nights, and I enjoy playing a game of snooker, which I think is a fantastic facility that we have here,” added David. a recent study, with aston University and Lancaster University, found that residents living in ExtraCare’s retirement villages showed a reduction in their dependence on GP and hospital
services, which means a 38% reduction in nhS costs per year. Exercise in residents increased by 75%, with anxiety levels dropping by 23% and 86.5% were never or hardly ever lonely. ExtraCare Charitable trust Chief Executive, Mick Laverty, said: “Our charity’s mission is creating sustainable communities that provide homes older people want, lifestyles they can enjoy and care if it’s needed. this means our residents can enjoy opportunities on their door step, whether it’s socialising in the bistro, volunteering in the village shop, taking part in a fitness session or singing in a choir. Facilities at this village will also be open to the wider community, enabling the village to become social hub for families, friends and volunteers representing all age groups.” the village has been developed thanks to a partnership between ExtraCare Charitable trust and Bedford Borough Council, with homes England making a £1.288 million contribution.
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OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
SEVA Trust UK raised £1000 for Flood Victims in Punjab, India
SOCIaL Education Voluntary association (SEVa) trust UK, based based charity organised a meeting at Guru Gobind Singh
Gurdwara (Sikh temple), Kempston on Sunday, September 1. It was attended by the SEVa trustees, temple Management
committee members and Bharpur Gill, aid Coordinator for Khalsa aid International who gave up update on the continuing rescue
and recovery operations being led by the UK based international charity Khalsa aid in Punjab, India.
HM Lord-Lieutenant’s Honours Ceremony held at RAF Henlow
a cheque of £1000 was presented to Bharpur Gill by SEVa trust. thanking the attendees, Bharpur said: “the whole region has been left devastated by the recent severe floods, with over 300 villages being directly affected and are now in need of emergency aid. Khalsa aid International has established a team of rescue specialists in the region to provide emergency aid and assistance to the victims of the disaster.
Photography: Keith Mayhew, the People’s Press Photography
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“It’s a great effort by Bedford communities to support Khalsa aid who have been instrumental in leading humanitarian efforts globally with huge support by all communities.”
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Nick Kier BEM DL receives his British Empire Medal from HM LordLieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis on behalf of HM The Queen
at a special ceremony held in the Canaletto Suite at the Woburn hotel, by kind permission of her Grace the Duchess of Bedford, hM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, helen nellis, brought together the Bedfordshire recipients who received their honour in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday honours List to celebrate their success, and to learn about the work behind their achievements. at the
same ceremony, the Lord-Lieutenant also presented a British Empire Medal to one Bedfordshire recipient on behalf of hM the Queen. Dignitaries present included the high Sheriff of Bedfordshire Meryl Dolling, the Chairman of Central Bedfordshire Council Cllr Brian Saunders, the Deputy Speaker of Bedford Borough Council Cllr Jane Walker, town Council Mayors of Biggleswade, & Sandy, Chief Superintendent David Boyle, Deputy Chief Fire Officer andrew hopkinson, Police & Crime Commissioner Chief of Staff Clare Kelly and the President of St John’s ambulance anthony Duggan OBE. they were joined by recipients’ family members and friends to hear details about their achievements which were read out by the LordLieutenant’s Cadets. the recipients honoured in the Queen’s Birthday List 2019 were: Dr Julie Mills oBe (Bedford) For services to Promoting Business and Education Links Professor Michael James Norton oBe FReng (Bedford) For services to Engineering and the Digital Economy Mrs eve Alexandra BURT MBe (Bedford) For public and political service Mrs elizabeth Jane Bewick JAcKSoN MBe (Biggleswade, Central Bedfordshire) For services to the northern Ireland Economy and Innovation in Law the British Empire Medallist honoured in the Queen’s Birthday List 2019 was: Nicholas Hector KieR BeM Dl (Bedford) For services to the Community in Bedfordshire
hM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, helen nellis said after the ceremony: “It was a real pleasure to recognise those Bedfordians who received national honours from hM the Queen this year in the beautiful setting of the Woburn hotel. the various contributions that each of the honours’ recipients have made to our county and to our nation is outstanding. In going the extra mile, they have all made a lasting impact for good on our community.”
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
Wootton Upper School wins silver award for ‘vibrant and committed’ history department aWarD-WInnInG Wootton Upper School has won praise for the opportunities and teaching standards it provides pupils studying history in a national assessment programme. the Bedford-based school has achieved the coveted ‘silver’ history Quality Mark - the second highest ranking available - following a rigorous inspection of its history faculties earlier this year. the award is presented by the history association and is recognised as a national seal of approval in education, offering parents, pupils and staff reassurance that standards of history teaching are of an exceptionally high standard at the school. It follows last year’s success in which Wootton became one of only nine schools in the UK to receive the coveted Secondary Geography Quality Mark (SGQM) in recognition of “excellence in teaching and learning in geography” in the 2018 awards scheme. Michael Gleeson, Executive Principal, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled for the school to receive this accolade which cements our reputation as a high-achieving academic institution. Much praise and thanks is owed to our head of history, Kristina Johns, whose vision and leadership has been instrumental in achieving this award. “the assessors had some high praise indeed for the school, describing the department as “vibrant and committed” and recognising our ambition to become a centre for excellence for history education.
“One of our key strengths at Wootton is never to rest on our laurels and this award gives us further room to push the boundaries of our success even further. I have every faith that we will continue to improve the department and believe that a future gold award is within our expert capabilities as a team.” In its final report, the history association assessors concluded that the school had the building blocks to make history a “powerhouse” within the academy. Lessons were “good” and sometimes “outstanding”, it added, and work “mercifully free” from GCSE explicit formats, with students responding with “authentic historical thinking”. “the enthusiasm and learning of the energetic and dedicated teaching staff is matched by thoughtful engagement of many of the school’s students in historical thinking and study,” it said. “the school has clearly invested strongly in securing an experienced, energetic and ambitious team of history specialists who will be able to move forward together to achieve and maintain excellence in the subject.” the school was also praised for its “enrichment” provision, giving pupils the chance to take part in a range of suitable activities including historical field visits to battlefields, war museums, trips to Berlin and hampton Court Palace, the silver Quality Mark will remain in place for the next three years at the end of which the school can be reassessed for a potential gold award.
A group of current Year 10 Students who are studying history with teacher Emily Griffin.
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OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Connolly Foundation supporting the young
A PRoJecT in luton that supports and helps disaffected young people from all backgrounds and faiths in luton has just expanded to cover more of the county thanks to a donation from the connolly Foundation. connolly has donated £100,000 to fund the charity’s work with young people both in luton and across Bedfordshire. Youthscape is based in Bute Mills, a former flour mill, in the centre of luton and supports and helps young people dealing with social and emotional challenges like self-harm, loneliness and difficulties fitting into school. Founded in 1993 it is now a growing national youth work organisation providing training right across the UK. ceo, chris curtis, said: “We have been offering train-
ing to luton schools for many years. one of the challenges that the connolly Foundation gave us a year ago was to extend
this to schools across Bedfordshire and we have worked hard to do this. “over the last twelve months
we have trained 230 teachers in Bedfordshire schools (not including luton) in the following topics like anxiety and depression, young people and sexting and emotional wellbeing and resilience.” The organisation now has 27 paid staff and more than 80 volunteers. chris curtis added: “The connolly Foundation helped us achieve the largest step forward in our twenty-three year history with the purchase of Bute Mills – our national training centre and base for our expanding work with Bedfordshire teenagers. “Not only were they one our most substantial funders – their support and belief in the work we are doing with young people encouraged others to get behind the project.”
WorldSkills stage in November
thE Bedford College Group will be centre stage at the WorldSkills UK Live event at the nEC Birmingham in november. Featured will be apprentice turned college It support department staff member Phillippe Beall who will competing in the network Systems administrator competition, having achieved the highest score across the county in the regional heats (photos). In addition the computing education team with 25 students (including those photographed with Phill) will be running two stands at the event - encouraging young people to sign up for courses at FE colleges. “this is great showcase for us,” said head of Computing Paula hobday, “to have one of our own taking part in the finals at the event acknowledges the national standards which our students can achieve. to have our team and students running stands show that we are a beacon of encouragement for school children to take StEM subjects which can lead to a huge range of careers. “the first stand is an Interpretation Space focused on hardware where students will work with visitors demonstrating how to upgrade a PC, and helping them to understand the components on the inside of a PC and the different parts that make a computer and a network work. “the second stand is a have a Go stand, with a number of different activities available such as 3D printing and robotics. the students will work with members of the public while they ‘have a go’
at the activities.” Such is the high standard of equipment available to students at Bedford College, that it each year hosts regional WorldSkills competitions leading to the UK Live event in Birmingham. this year the categories were: iT Support Technician Network infrastructure Technician Network Systems Administrator – Bc students came first (Phill) and second iT Software Solutions for Business – Bc students came first and second cyber Security – Bc students came second and third Bedford College has competed in various areas across WorldSkills competitions for a decade. It is consistently among the best in its field with students each year competing in the national finals, and several award winners, including a gold medal winner who qualified for the international WorldSkills finals. Students work closely with major companies in the field of It and are welcomed eagerly by employers seeking staff who have a “real work” understanding of the industry. In fact, Mark Downing (photographed on with Phill) who is training Co-ordinator for computing is looking for young people who want to embark on apprenticeships. they will have the backing of the world-class It training at the college and access to some exciting job prospects. Want to know more about fulltime or apprenticeships in It and Computing then go to www.bedford.ac.uk
Officer jailed for 20 months
an OFFICEr who admitted to stealing more than £9,000 from a force exhibits store has been jailed for 20 months. Detective Sergeant David Sharpe, 40, who was based within the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and hertfordshire Major Crime Unit at hertfordshire Constabulary hQ, was handed a 20-month prison sentence at Cambridge Crown Court on august 28, after being convicted of two counts of theft by employee. On March 18, it was discovered that a sum of money amounting to £9,080, was missing from
exhibits storage in the Major Crime Unit. he was voluntarily interviewed by the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and hertfordshire Professional Standards Department and said that he had made a snap decision to take the money, and that he was planning to pay it back before anyone had noticed it was missing. he was suspended from his post while an investigation was launched. as well as his sentence, he also received a confiscation order to pay back £8,961.09 of the stolen money.
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
— 11
We have groups all over Bedford and the surrounding villages to suit – to find your closest go to www.Slimmingworld.co.uk and search with your postcode 0344 897 8000
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Maria is now rocking in jeans after baby weight loss and will be helping others to do the same me, it’s perfect.” Losing 5 stones means that Maria is just feeling so much happier and healthier “ I am so much more confident, I am wearing nice jeans, I feel fitter and healthier and can keep up with my young family.” helping others is what Maria
is wanting to do next “I just feel like I want to help others, I know how amazing it feels to have lost my excess weight and I want to share that feeling with others, I know how it feels to be unhappy, and I know I found the best solution for me and my family, and that’s something to share.”
Maria opened her group last month at the St John the Baptist church Hall, High Street, Flitton MK45 5el her group time will be 7:30pm. You can call Maria on 07739 518231 if you wish to speak to her before joining.
of pasta and for her, one of the best things about Food Optimising was the freedom to enjoy her favourite foods. “I love the fact that I can eat enough to satisfy my appetite, and that I can include the foods I love to eat like lasagne, carbonara, homemade burgers, and my family can all eat with
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crafted hand trowel when she got there. “I was nervous, but once I walked through the door, there was such a warm welcome, I felt at ease straight away, no one judged me and it was just a lovely community to be part of. the group helped me so much on my journey, not just on the first night, but right the way through with empathy and encouragement whenever I needed it”. as an Italian, Maria loves a bit
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MarIa Gibbons found that after having two children she had gained much more weight than she wasn’t comfortable with going to any mum and baby groups, she had loss all her confidence and self-esteem. She was embarrassed and little by little was isolating herself from the real world. then, with the help of Slimming World she was able to lose the weight following the birth of her second baby and get her selfesteem back. never in a million years did Maria think she would go near a pair of jeans, this was a decade also the last time she had. now looking and feeling fab in her jeans, Maria is looking to help others who want to do the same, who want to get that body confidence to wear whatever makes them happy and feel full of confidence that they enjoy life to the full when she opened her group in Flitton last month. Maria who gained five stones with her second pregnancy was really unhappy with her weight, she wanted to lose her baby weight, plus a bit of interest she found along the way “I was tired, I felt really low, I didn’t want to go out socialising and I felt too unfit to exercise. I hated that I was in much bigger clothes sizes as well, and I couldn’t even contemplate wearing jeans, I hid in oversized comfortable dresses.” Maria felt nervous about getting help, but she joined a local group in ampthill and then Silsoe to get the support she knew she needed. “I felt really nervous, even though I have done this before after my first child, it is always scary walking through the doors on your first night’ however she was pleasantly surprised
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12 —
OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
AROUND THE CLUBS AND SOCIETIES
the Biggleswade Branch of the royal artillery association held a Branch Meeting on 4th September 2019, at the Sea Cadets hall. there were sixteen members present. the Chairman recited the royal artillery Prayer. apologies were received from four members. no new members were announced. the minutes of the august Branch meeting were read. the treasurers report was received. an e-mail was received from Brian Davies about a book entitled ‘tobruk to trieste – Life of a Bofors Gunner’ which the chairman expanded upon. the Chairman asked if members would be interested in attending a Service on St Barbara’s Day (the Patron Saint of the regiment). this falls on Wednesday 4th December and coincides with the December meeting. there was support for this. the President announced that he had received an e-mail from 49 Battery and there will be 30 Marching troops attending this year’s remembrance Parade. the meeting closed at 14.50hrs. 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 regi-
ROYAL ARTILLERY ASSOCIATION
MID BEDS
ments who wish to share the camaraderie are welcome. the Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sea Cadets hall, Biggleswade starting at 14.30hrs. (next Meeting is on Wednesday 2nd October). Please contact the Chairman ted McKenzie on 07900806235 or E Mail tiger.ted@gmail.com for more details.
BIGGLESWADE IVEL EVENING TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD
Chairman Chris Davies welcomed members to the harvest supper on Monday, September 9. Birthday greetings were given to rosie Body, helene Clapson, Joy Cooper, Gill hibbert, Christine howard, anne Jones and Liz Stirratt. Since the last meeting the walking group have had a walk around Bedford embankment to enjoy the flowers and peace of the river. Lunch was taken at Blossom café Willington. august saw the group have a short stroll around Southill followed by a visit to the tea rooms for afternoon tea. the monthly walk is thursday, September 26 meeting at Mill Lane Langford, lunch will be at the Langford garden centre. the Green Man has been booked for the guild’s 50th anniversary dinner on thursday, november 14. Menus were distributed with a request to return these
by the next meeting when full payment would be required. an outing has been arranged to visit Bury St Edmunds Christmas market on thursday, november 21. a mini bus has been booked to take members to the Carol Service at Chelmsford on thursday, December 12. Chris Davies gave a report of the federation meeting she attended with Bobbie Ball. the next arts and crafts festival will combine with the summer special and will take place on Saturday, July 18 2020. the evening then continued with the traditional harvest supper provided by the committee followed by a capital cities quiz and a beetle drive. the next meeting will be on Monday, October 14, when Colin Davies will give a talk about the macular society. the competition will be something beginning with the letter O. the guild meets on the second Monday of the month 7.30 pm at the Weatherley Centre new member and visitors are very welcome.
Club secretaries are reminded that the deadline for their reports is the 18th of the month preceding publication
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Pupils at Biggleswade over £3,900 in books w ChILDrEn at Biggleswade academy received £3,936 worth of books by taking part in a Sponsored reading Event. Pupils read as much as they could between 4th and 10th March in order to raise money for new books for the school, an event organised by Susana rice from Usborne Books at home. In addition to the amount raised by the children, local businesses also made generous donations towards the sponsored read, namely Biggleswade Skin Clinic, KidsLingo, Sandy Sports Massage therapist, Bell tailors, abel Fitness Studios and the Duncombe arms Pub. Usborne Books at home aims to support educational establishments and encourage children’s love of books
Badges galore for WHeN cubs (boys and girls aged 8 to 10 ½) and Scouts (boys and girls aged 10 ½ to 14) go camping, it normally means they do lots of activities, resulting in badges being awarded. Following the summer camp held in Brentwood, essex over 250 badges were awarded. These included Adventure challenge, outdoor challenge, Time on the Water and Backwoods cooking. Jamie Ng Miller said, “i had a great time at camp and i’m really pleased to get so many badges.” The Beavers (boys and girls aged 6 to 8) started the term back with some games where they learnt to work as part of a team. This was followed by some camp craft and learning new skills, including learning to tie shoelaces for their Skills challenge badge. later on this term they will be working towards their space badge and doing some rock painting. The cubs have been camping where at an internationally themed event they wore berets, ate
crepes Suzettes, played Boules and ‘built’ the eiffel Tower. They have also visited the Apple Store in Milton Keynes as part of their Digital citizen badge. events planned for the rest of the term include a visit
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
MID BEDS
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Sandy Green Wheel anniversary walk success e Academy receive with Sponsored Read by rewarding schools who participate in their Sponsored Events with additional free books. head of English, Mr Windsor said: “as a result of the children’s efforts, we have a huge number of brand new books, covering every area of the curriculum and meaning an even richer learning experience. We have also been able to refresh our stock of reading books, so new and exciting titles will soon be on the library shelves! “a huge thanks also needs to go to the local businesses for their contributions to the amount and, of course, to Usborne Books for helping to organise the event and adding an incredible 60% donation to the final pot of money!”
r Flitwick Scouts to the Peace Pagoda and working towards their chef and Astronomer badges. A hike over Flitwick and Flitton Moors was the first activity on the programme for both Scout Troops. They have also been doing some indoor fire lighting and making shelters. events planned include learning about Astronautics and doing some photography. Members of the Group will also be attending the Harvest Festival at St.Peter and St.Paul
church on 6 october, the civic Service on 13 october and the Remembrance Day Service on 10 November. Adult volunteer louise Rutt said, “one of the most enjoyable experiences of being a volunteer is seeing a child try an activity they didn’t think they could do. A bit of encouragement, a bit more encouragement and lots of praise when they have completed the activity brings a smile to everyone’s faces.”
Charity hair chop and tea party on Saturday October 5 at 12pm Sandy Jenkins Pavilion
We are having our hair cut and donating to the Little Princess trust and along side of that we are aiming to raise £550 as that’s the amount it costs to make one wig, that’s given for free. I have chosen the the date as this makes the 7th year since my mum passed from cancer. We have a facebook fundraising page where the donations have already reached £310. there’s a tea party to raise more funds selling refreshments and a raffle and then we shall have our hair cut at 2pm.
Roxanne Smith
The Sandy Green Wheel first anniversary walk on Sunday 15th September was a great success, with over 40 people of all ages joining in. The group set off from the Community Stand soon after 10am to start the 7 mile walk and finished at the Queens Head Pub, for some well-earned refreshment. Participants also received an ‘I walked the Sandy Green Wheel’ pin badge to commemorate the occasion. Thanks to everyone that came along to walk, chat and enjoy a very sunny Sunday in our lovely countryside. You can download a map of the Sandy Green Wheel from our
website or you can collect a copy from the Town Council’s offices at 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy, SG19 1JE, to have a go at walking all or part of the route yourself. We are also looking for volunteers to become Friends of the Sandy Green Wheel, to help look after and promote the use of the route. If you are interested in ‘adopting’ a section of the Sandy Green Wheel, to record and report any problems; and possibly undertake minor litter picking and vegetation trimming, please register your interest with us at admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.u k or on 01767 681491.
SANDY TOWN COUNCIL Lamp Post Poppies
FORTHCOMING E VENTS
French Market 13th October 2019
Following the success of last year’s lamppost poppies, which raised For the first time in Sand y, France at Home over £500 for will be running a genuine French Market. The the poppy market will be held on Su nd ay 13th October appeal, the Council from 9 am to 4pm in Sa nd y Tow n Car Park. will once again be dy lining the route of the San Remembrance Parade with the large poppies as part of Sandy’s Sunday 10th Novemb er 2019 at the commemoration of all those who War Memorial, Bedford Road commencing one r nso spo to like ’d you If . lost were at 10.50am. sage mes a of these poppies and leave of remembrance on the Council’s website contact admin@Sandytowncouncil.gov.uk The Friends of Sandy Ch ristmas Lights are busy for more information. finalising preparations for this years Christmas Lig ht Switch on event. This year’s nt will be on Sunday 1st December 2019. More Residents’ Fishing Permit be publisheeve details will d over the coming month s. Local Nature
Remembrance Day Par ade & Service
Christmas Lights 1st D ecember
2019
The Riddy Reserve
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which borders the River Ivel The Town Council owns ‘The Riddy’ voles. It allows residents of r wate to nt and is especially importa during the fishing season Sandy and Beeston to fish the river free. for ch, Mar which runs from June to h can be obtained from the A Residents’ Permit is required, whic l for the year. Apri 1st the from es Town Council offic Licence and some other form A current Environment Agency Rod ent address must be submitof identification containing your pres it. perm a ted at the time of applying for le under the age of 12 peop g The permit is also available to youn ble adult when onsi resp a by nied mpa but they must be acco the Town Council act cont se applying. For more information plea offices.
Councillor Surgeries
Come along to a public surgery and talk about any ideas or concerns you have to your Town Councillors about the town. The next surgery will be on Friday 25th October in the small Britannia Pharmacy, 5 Market Squ are and will run between 10am and 12 noon.
COUNCIL MEETINGS
All meetings commence at 7.30pm except Development Scrutiny Committ ee (Planning) which usually starts at 6.45pm in the Council Chamber, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG1 9 1JE
Monday 14th October 2019 Development Scrutiny Policy Finance & Resources Monday 28th October 2019 Town Council Monday 4th November 2019 Development Scrutiny Community Services & Environm ent See our website for details of othe r meetings ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND
10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
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OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
World Mental Health Day
WOrLD Mental health Day takes place on thursday 10 October every year and is an opportunity to raise awareness of mental health issues, tackle the stigma surrounding mental health and promote open and positive conversations. a free healthy mind and healthy body hub featuring a host of interactive activities is being held in Bedford’s harpur Square to mark World Mental health Day. Visitors will be able to try table tennis, ride a smoothie bike, learn about the wide range of exercise opportunities in Bedford and talk to health professionals about how to maintain their personal mental health and wellbeing. the event is organised by Bedford Borough Council’s Sports Development team in partnership with East London nhS Foundation trust, which provides mental health services across Bedfordshire. Many other fantastic local organisations will be also be present to offer mental health support and advice and promote positive conversations around mental health, including our See the Signs Public health campaign. Cllr Doug McMurdo, Portfolio holder for Leisure and Culture said “this free event is a great opportunity to raise awareness of mental health, to come along to find out more and try out one of our taster sessions.” Cllr Louise Jackson, Portfolio holder for health and Wellbeing said “this annual event on World Mental health Day is a brilliant way to raise awareness and encourage positive conversations about mental health. Come down and see what we have to offer in Bedford Borough.” all visitors are welcome at the free event between 11am-3pm on thursday 10 October 2018 in harpur Square. to find out more about our Sports Development and all our other activities visit www.bedford.gov.uk/sport
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Nikki’s new line in wearable art
NiKKi WHeATleY is a truly original talent, so much so her clothing designs are a ‘little eccentric’.
They are sold to those who want original pieces of “wearable art” across Beds and Northants. Her work was on show at the eagle Gallery, 101 castle Road, Bedford as part of a special exhibition last month. She always loved art, then went in to a career in nursing and raising three children. Taking up art and crafts she discovered ‘wet-felting’ and a new fashion line was born. This includes hats, coats and wraps. Here are descriptions of few of those very special items which were on display. coat: Winter wears. Made with a pure silk lining, two layers of Superfine Merino Wool Fibres and then a patchwork of silk fabrics on top. All
wet-felted as a whole with no sewing. Pockets and a multi way collar. Made to measure. Top: Autumn colours: Margilan silk and Superfine Merino cut into leaves at the pre-felt stage. can be worn either way around it has some floating silk creating a waterfall effect. Red Wrap: indian silk torn into sections and then felted onto two layers of Superfine Merino Wool Fibres. Poncho in yellow and blue: Made with Superfine Merino wool Fibres and silk fabric. Wensleydale locks added. All wet-felted together. Steampunk Poppy shawl: Made with a variety of different types of silk fabrics and Superfine Merino wool. Wetfelted together. Multi-layered. Workshops are held by Nikki, and in addition to clothing her range includes pictures and cards. littleeccentric.co.uk
Bedfordshire Police Fun Day BEDFOrDShIrE Police successfully held its fifth annual family fun day last month. the sun was shining as the force welcomed almost 15,000 people to this year’s event which was held at Bedfordshire Police headquarters in Kempston. the event was opened by PC Dave Wardell and retired police dog Finn. People had the chance to see displays from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and hertfordshire Dog Unit, and a visit from the police helicopter from colleagues at the national Police air Service (nPaS). there were plenty of interactive activities for all to try their hand at, including a Bikeability ‘unrideable bike’ challenge, a ‘crime scene’ to investigate and a chance to meet officers from 24 hours in Police Custody. there were also opportunities to meet and greet Chase from Paw Patrol and a dance off between community dance group, UFM vs officers and staff. a range of fundraising events were held during the day and a huge amount was raised for Embrace
CVOC, a charity which supports children who are victims of crime. Chief Constable Garry Forsyth said: “the Family Fun Day was an amazing day and I want to express a huge thank you to everybody who contributed and everyone who came to support the event. It was great to see so many people enjoying themselves. “We were very fortunate to have the day opened by Britain’s Got talent finalists PC Dave Wardell and Finn, the police dog that saved his life, and there were so many stalls showcasing what policing is all about and getting people involved in the important work that we do, including impressive displays from the dog unit and exciting landing from the police helicopter by our colleagues from nPaS. to top it off we raised a huge amount of money for our force charity Embrace CVOC supporting child victims of crime. “these events are so important for the force to build relationships with our local communities, we loved meeting you all and we hope to see you at next year’s event.”
Bedford BID (Love Bedford) teamed up with Select Travel on Mill Street this summer to hold a Free prize draw. The prize, courtesy of Select Travel, was a two night break in the historic city of Warwick for two adults and two children with a day ticket entry to Warwick Castle. Entries came from online and also onsite at the successful Medieval Festival held on Castle Mound. With nearly 1800 entries we were delighted with the response and interest we gained for Love Bedford and our partner. The prize was won by local resident, David Lowe
who said: I entered the competition as it was the perfect prize for my wife, two daughters and I. Where possible we try and support local business. We have good friends who run the Foresters Arms and the Foundry and are huge advocates of places like The Store and other independents. We also have a food blog on Instagram (Bedfooduk) which is a bit of fun but supports and celebrates all things food and all things Bedford”. For more events and news on Bedford please visit www.lovebedford.co.uk and www.facebook.com/lovebedford
…and the winner is
Horty show
SCOrChInG hot weather and unpredictable growing conditions made life difficult for gardeners throughout the summer. But that didn’t stop the annual Milton Ernest Garden Centre horticultural Show from being a red hot success. Entries were slightly down in flower and vegetable classes but quality was high and enthusiasts still found ways to impress the judges with the size of their runner beans and the weight of their onions. One new class called for an arrangement in an imaginative up-cycled container; and marigolds grown in ‘marigold’ gloves created by Barbara Smart of Oakley certainly fitted the bill. Barbara, centre is pictured with Claire Wilkes and Maureen Catlin from the organisers.
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
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Bridge in Mental Health Hillersden Hall bringing new life to historic Elstow by Daisy Smith
they say that as you get older you can’t learn new tricks - but Bedfordshire’s no Fear Bridge group aims to prove the old saying wrong. It believes everybody, not least those at risk of developing dementia, can benefit from playing the classic card game. research shows the interaction with others not only builds new friendships, it helps to combat loneliness and maintains good mental health. Currently 850,000 people in the U.K are living with dementia and, with numbers set to rise to over 1 million by 2025, it is as important as ever to help those with dementia stimulate their mental activity. the University of Stirling, working alongside the charity English Bridge Education and Development, discovered that playing bridge has a statistically significant positive effect on wellbeing. Dementia UK recommends that people should ‘stay physically active and mentally stimulated with different activities so that you use different parts of the brain’ thus reducing the risks of getting dementia. the no Fear Bridge community, which began in Bedford 10 years ago, consists of five Bridge clubs of approximately 200 active members, with several in their
90s. their main focus is to help people transition from learning the game, to playing duplicate Bridge. together with the Bedford Bridge Club, they can offer duplicate Bridge on most days of the week at various locations within Bedford. an initiative by both clubs to source a permanent Centre for both clubs to share has seen a charity, the Bedford Bridge Centre (Charity number 1178914), being formed and they have approached the Bedford Borough Council to help seek a dedicated centre for all Bridge clubs to share. President of no Fear Bridge, Sue Ford, believes that ‘social isolation and loneliness is a real and growing problem amongst older people and playing bridge is a wonderful way to make new friendships and enrich your retirement years’. Sue Ford has started a class for beginners at Wixams retirement Village, encouraging all people to play whilst enjoying the many benefits that Bridge brings. no Fear has also begun entering schools in the Bedford area to introduce Mini-Bridge to children, in order to enhance their maths and communication skills and to safeguard the future of this multifaceted game. Interested in joining no Fear Bridge can contact Dale Squire, Chair of no Fear Bridge via email dale_squire@hotmail.com
a £750,000 appeal to build a community hall from the ruins of hillersden hall next to the historic Elstow abbey Church is being launched on September 21/22. already over £230,000 has been donated and spent on the renovations of the scheduled monument ruins in preparation for the new build. the rest is being raised as the hall is built, to the exacting standards of English heritage. “this is a site which dates back over a 1,000 years to before Judith niece of William the Conqueror, which means that work will be expensive, but this is really history in the making,” said Priest in Charge Father Paul Messam. hillersden hall was built in approximately 1620 in what was left of the 14th Century cloisters of the abbey which were destroyed in the reformation when King henry VIII took over many wealthy Catholic places of worship for what we now know as the Church of England. In later centuries the manor house fell into ruins. the first part of renovation of the site into a community hall took place in the 21st Century thanks to a generous bequest. now the project moves forward when VIPS and the local community are invited to visit the site over the weekend of Saturday
and Sunday 21 and 22 of September. “We will have large L-shaped marquee covering the site of what will be the restored hall and inside there we will have an exhibition of history of the site and a pop-up cafe in the church - as well as the hugely popular tea garden next door,” added Father Paul, “there will be a Just Giving Page and fund-raising leading up to building work actually starting in the autumn of 2020. “In addition we will be seeking grants and hoping that the local community will get behind this appeal for what will be a valuable community asset. already we are working with the Bedford College Group and the charity Groundwork Luton & Bedfordshire to involve people in activities in and around the
see the village of John Bunyan author of what was the world’s best selling book for centuries (behind the Bible):
the story of pilgrim Christian has inspired worshippers across the centuries and 1,000s have visited Elstow from the USa, South Korea and across Europe. More details: bunyansbedford.weebly.com Visitors to the church can now make high-tech donations through a card “tap” machine inside the historic doors. “Churches have to move with times to raise funds and to welcome people not just on Sundays but seven days a week. We need help with funding in the same way that benefactors throughout the centuries have supported their local church,” said Father Paul.
The Pilgrim’s Progress
location.” tourism is vital to the funding of Elstow abbey and the new hillersden hall will serve, in part, as a visitor centre for those who travel from around the globe to
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16 —
OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
10 Fire Risk Assessment mistakes – “you could be making them right now” 5
Never before has fire safety been so highly scrutinized since The Fire Safety Order 2005 was introduced and of course, the tragic events of The Grenfell Fire last year. Lessons will and must be learnt and implemented to ensure that in modern day Britain this sort of thing never happens again. The Hackitt report is now in progress to make the necessary changes. Experiences of over 20 years up visiting all types of premises is that the ‘good’ and ‘bad’ are miles apart to say the least! In some instances, business owners, responsible person/s for the work place or those appointed in charge of fire safety often ‘care’ but are ‘unaware’ of what’s involved to make them compliant.
GUIDANCE: Often overlooked is working to the right legislation, supporting documents and British Standards.
Tell your employees and 6 SHARE: pass on significant findings of the assessment. IT CURRENT: Is your report 7 KEEP current; a true reflection of the premises? AND 8 PROCEDURES ARRANGEMENTS: It is essential that all occupants know what to do in the event of a fire and deploy the evacuation strategy effectively. Have you acted on the 9 IGNORE: findings or just filed the report away until next time?
There is no physical 1 DESKTOP: inspection of the building. YES/ NO: In most instances 2 answering like this will not be deemed suitable and sufficient.
The person 10 COMPETENCE: completing the assessment can be prosecuted.
PLAN: Must conclude in an 3 ACTION action plan with ranking and suitable timescales.
4
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Raising the roof in construction training SEttInG the standards for training in the modern construction industry is now a key role for one of the Bedford College Group’s Directors, David Wilkins. Director of Construction & Building Services Dave, has stepped up from Vice Chair to Chair of the British association of Construction heads (BaCh). the body represents 80 colleges nationwide which offer training for the construction industry. It liaises closely with employers and with Government agencies to determine how to meet the changing demands of the industry. “It is a privilege to be in a position where here in Bedford we are central to guiding training in the construction industry,” said Dave, “We link with the Department of Education, Ofqual and the Institute for apprenticeships to help shape national policy and with OFStED to ensure member colleges are at the forefront of excellent Learning, teaching and assessment. Most crucially we work closely with employers, CItB and Industry federations to ensure that the latest technology within the industry is embedded in the curriculum. BaCh benefits the whole of the UK of course, but closer to home it means our staff and students are in the front seat seeing fast-moving strategies come into force. Our students are right up to date with training and progres-
sions opportunities and staff are kept up to date through Continuing Professional Development.” Like most of the tutors in the the Bedford College Group, Dave comes from a successful career in the industry where he now leads on training for. he started work as an apprentice carpenter scoring the highest in the country in the Institute of Carpenters Membership award at the end of his apprenticeship. he worked as a site carpenter at a Bedfordshire firm before becoming a lecturer in 2002. now the Bedford College Group engages at the highest level with major construction companies. More recently it has been pioneering an employability project with global giants ISG
(See full story news www.bedford.ac.uk ) Locally the Group has opened the advanced Engineering and Construction Centre which uses the latest technology to help those starting on site to progress through hnC and hnD courses to degree level qualifications. “People may no longer have a job for life, but they have access to lifelong learning which means if they start ‘on the tools’ they can progress up the promotion ladder by keeping in touch with their local college,” added Dave. Bedford College has top quality bricklayer apprentices including two who reached the national finals of the Guild of Bricklayers awards. (See full story news www.bedford.ac.uk )
Sounds of the underground?
!
SIr David attenborough has introduced us to the idea that plants have senses which can respond to their environment. now a 22-year-old at Shuttleworth College is trying to find out if they react to sound. Peter Lickorish has won a
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Milton Keynes Parks trust bursary of £500 to conduct experiments in the potting shed of the land-based campus near Biggleswade. he is placing propagation stage Euphorbia plants in sound boxes to see whether they grow
best in silence, with the sound of trickles of water or mixed noises such as students talking around them. Peter is completing the study as his dissertation for his royal horticultural Society (rhS) Masters and said: “there is a practical application for this especially with the modern designs of plant walls in and outside of offices. Setting aside atmospheric influences, do plants respond to the sound of a busy office or traffic noise, or does that stunt their growth compared to gentle sounds like running water?” Peter works part-time at Shuttleworth College supporting those on the rhS courses which range from Level 1 Diploma up to degree-level and has his own business - Peter Lickorish’s Plant Paradise based in his home of Shenley Church End, Milton Keynes. Explaining about the support for his project, Peter added: “the bursary is called the Fred roche Foundation Study award and is named after the man who was the General Manager Milton Keynes Development Corporation and thus green space developer of the new city. Only now can his vision for the greenness of Milton Keynes be really appreciated. Like others from Milton Keynes who are interested in plants and gardens, I came to study at Shuttleworth College as it is has a long-standing reputation in the field of horticulture and agriculture.” For more information about horticulture courses and research programmes at Shuttleworth College visit www.shuttleworth.ac.uk
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN MAY 2019
gardening You can plant a rainbow from cold winds which could damage the young foliage in the early spring. It is a wonderful plant to grow in a container. the ED and yellow and Pink leaves are a delicate pale green in and Green Orange and spring turning bright green in Purple and Blue these are summer and vibrant red in the colours of a rainbow which autumn before leaf fall. can also be found in your garden in Cercis Canadensis, the Judas the autumn. as the days get shorter tree, is a large shrub/small tree and the light levels and temperawhich grows easily in peaty soils. tures drop deciduous plants will Its bare branches in spring are stop producing chlorophyll which covered with bright magenta pink consumes a lot of energy and is pea flowers followed by large their source of nutrition. heart shaped purple green leaves Chlorophyll produces the green which turn gleaming yellow in leaves we see in spring and October before dropping to form summer when plants are actively a golden carpet beneath. growing. Sorbus aucuparia Eastern In autumn the chlorophyll Promise is a variety of Mountain breaks down and the leaves loose ash that has is a small tree with the green pigment and reveal an upright habit. It has white other colours in the foliage. flowers in spring followed by Carotenoids are the yellow and green pinnate leaves which turn orange pigments and absorb the red yellow orange and purple in energy needed to produce Chloro- autumn. the deep rose pink phyll while anthocyanins are red berries appear in late august and pink and purple and protect the are a spectacular contrast to the leaves from sun scorch. autumn leaf colours. the berries the colours of theRoad leaves(just of off the Radwell holdA6) on the tree until taken by the some species Milton can be absolutely Ernest MK44 birds 1SH in early winter. stunning. that’s the science so as the native Ilex, holly Bush, the lyrics of the song depict let’s must be the most iconic green look at plants that will give as an autumn and winter shrub. It is autumn Garden rainbow. evergreen and so does not shred Japanese acer Osakazuki is a its leaves in autumn. It can be medium sized shrub grown for its grown as a large shrub or clipped stunning leaf display. It thrives in as a small standard tree to grow in acidic soil so plant in ericaceous a container. the foliage is shiny at compost somewhere sheltered all times with white flowers in
by Maureen Catlin Milton Ernest Garden Centre
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FREE Traditionally
crafted hand trowel Spend £10 ON AUTUMN BULBS GET PLANTING TROWEL FREE www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk spring and, if you choose the right variety, red berries in winter which we bring into the house for good luck at Christmas. a good berry producing variety is Ilex aquifolium J C Van tol. Euonymus alatus Compactus is a small shrub with curiously flattened corky stems. the green flowers in spring become red purple berries in autumn which split to reveal a bright orange seed that the birds love. the green foliage is magnificent in autumn when it turns brilliant scarlet giving the plant the common name of the Burning Bush. Pyracantha Orange Glow is an evergreen wall shrub that has scented white flowers in spring which are an abundant source of early nectar for bees followed by bright orange berries in autumn. an excellent winter feed for wild birds. the plant is also very dense and provides great nesting and winter shelter for birds and squirrels. Callicarpa Bodinieri Profusion Giraldi is a small shrub that is easy to grow in most soils. It has purple bronze young leaves in spring followed by dark green foliage in summer and purple and yellow autumn leaf colour. the flowers are small and pink in
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summer followed by brilliant shiny purple bead like berries in autumn. Prunus Spinosa Blackthorn or Sloe is a prickly shrub which is widely found in the deciduous hedgerows in our countryside. It is covered in white flowers in early spring before the leaves appear. In autumn it produces berries that look like blue berries but have a tart flavour and should be cooked before eating. It is also used to make the scrummy liqueur Sloe Gin. the wood is used to make walking sticks and in Ireland the Shillelagh. the rainbow in the sky and song is transitory but if we plant one in our garden it’s there every autumn. Pyracantha Orange Glow is an evergreen wall shrub that has scented white flowers in spring which are abundant source of Whilstfollowed stocks last by early nectar for bees bright orange berries in autumn. an excellent winter feed for wild birds. the plant is also very dense and provides great nesting and winter shelter for birds and squirrels. Some evergreens can also change leaf colour as the light intensity reduces. Whilst stocks last
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The Lawn Doctor Given recent temperatures, you might be forgiven for thinking that it is still summer but it is officially autumn, and that means, amongst other things, less light. Indeed, from the start of this season for the next few weeks, it means in total, 30 minutes of less light per day and this has a dramatic impact on many plants. as previously stated in these pages, some plants respond to temperature, some to light levels. however, it is still remarkably dry so a regular watering regime remains a priority. along with the heat, remember also that the wind can be very drying and we are currently experiencing both so, if you care about your plants, there is still plenty to do before you can put your feet up! trees and large shrubs have had a very tough couple of years and despite what the vociferous sun lovers will tell you, many of these magisterial plants are not in the rudest of health. So many are beginning to show the signs of last year’s drought and punishing heat and with the aquifer levels in this country recently described by talkSport’s fishing expert, nigel Botherway, as ‘perilous’, a regular drench will help them no end. For many, Lavender has, by this time, done its job for the year, for both us and more importantly, the insects. If the flowers are faded, it is time to give it a trim. I like to wait until the flowers are pitted so as to give the beleaguered insects the best possible opportunity to feed from them and then I attack them with secateurs. Some of you will prefer shears but this means then having to pick up the debris afterwards. Using secateurs, I am able to cut with one hand and collect with the other but each to their own. If adopting my O method, take very great care not to stab yourself as I did a number of years ago, a point at least one regular reader, (that’s you harry M!), will remember. Either way, simply Wh stalk and do not remove the flower cut into wood. Over time, lavender
£
often gets leggy, that is, its flowers get further from the rest of the plant, and can look unattractive. In this scenario, the best course of action is to replace with fresh plants or take cuttings from extant plants which is simple and rewarding. Please contact me for a guide if you want to try. among my correspondence this past month has been a number of horror stories involving what many refer to as ‘cowboy/cowgirl gardeners/tree workers/landscapers’. In one case, a lawn has been absolutely ‘scalped’ by mowing way too close as well as very old roses being ‘hacked down’ and probably killed. My advice, as always, is to check qualifications and references with everyone you employ. the two together create a picture which though not infallible might just prevent an avoidable and expensive catastrophe. after all, would you be happy to employ an untrained electrician, vet or GP? Last month’s just for fun question, inspired by a sighting, asked, what is the difference between a dragon fly and a damsel fly? Despite looking similar, eyes, body shape, wing shape and position of wings at rest are all distinctly different. Simply, dragon flies have chunkier bodies than the svelte damsel and at rest, the wings remain in the same position as when in flight. this month’s question is in two parts and relates to the plant commonly known as ‘the butterfly bush’. What is its correct botanical name? and why is called this? as always, there is no prize but assume a self satisfied, smug demeanour if you know the answer! thank you all very much for your fascinating correspondence, mystery plants, horror stories, strange sightings etc. – please keep them coming. and do please contact me with any 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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OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
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Happy Birthday Respite at Home Volunteers thIS summer respite at home Volunteers West Mid Beds and Ivel Valley celebrated 20 years of working in the local community, at a special event with afternoon tea and cake at Jordan’s Mill Our guests included our volunteers present and past, our professional partners, some of the families we help on a regular basis and a great turn out from our local Mayors and Councillors. It was a fabulous afternoon bringing people together to celebrate our achievement. Our charity helps people with life limiting illnesses and gives support to their families by giving them some respite and much needed time off from caring for their loved ones. Our volunteers are an amasing group of people who give up their free time to help families in their own homes who are affected by serious illness. Caring for someone you
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love at home can be tiring and isolating and our volunteers can help to relieve the family, by giving them time to see their friends, go shopping or simply relax. Our volunteer’s visit the family each week for up to three hours, give practical help where it’s needed and become a supporting friend during illness – and often far beyond. We are also looking for more volunteers to help support families in Bedfordshire. So if you have a couple of hours to spare each week and enjoy spending time chatting and listening? then this is an opportunity for you! So why not join our team and help us celebrate 20 years of working in the local community! you can follow us this year on our Facebook page and see how our challenge 20-20-20, 20 years, 20 events, 20K is going!
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
out & about Castle Comedy Biggleswade
Castle Comedy Biggleswade celebrates its 5th Birthday on Monday october 7. the show will be a Birthday celebration and feature typically brilliant comedians. headlining the show is Dominc Holland. he has countless television and radio credits, including multiple appearances on have I Got news For you and the royal Variety Performance, as well as the news Quiz. a Perrier Best newcomer award winner, Dominic has performed seven solo shows at the Edinburgh Festival, most recently in 2018 and he continues to tour the UK and beyond with his unique take on life. Despite Dominic’s best efforts and his considerable achievements in show business, the cruel
reality is that he has been severely out-starred by his eldest son, tom holland… that’s right Dom is Spider-Man’s dad! “The UK’s master of observational comedy” The Sunday Times Opening the show is ian Smith. he has developed a reputation as an exciting, creative comic. Mixing conversational, energetic storytelling and observations with unique set pieces and an exceptional skill for improvisation – Ian is a regular at the biggest comedy clubs in the UK. Ian has appeared on BBC three at the Fringe, BBC3 panel show Sweat the Small Stuff and the BBC two sitcom Popatron. “Catch him now before his inevitable jump to the big time” the telegraph the middle act is Adam Vincent. he is an australian who has made Bedfordshire his home! his career in the UK has gone from strength to strength and he is part of the writing team for the hugely successful Last Leg on Channel 4. “Makes me laugh louder and more inappropriately than most people I know” Adam Hills Plus Biggleswade favourite Paul revill will host the show. the shows sell out quickly, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment! Doors open 6.30pm, Shows start at 8.00pm and tickets are £8. to book visit: www.castlecomedy.co.uk
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
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and a talk, briefly explaining the Masquerade on 25th october at Parkside Hall at 7.30pm.
tickets available from no.14 Bedford Street & ampthill town Council or at the door. £5 each Masquerade 40 celebrates the anniversary of Kit Williams’ eclectic book ‘Masquerade’ which sparked a national treasure hunt. On the 7th august 1979 Kit Williams and Bamber Gascoigne buried the Golden hare Jewel in ampthill Great Park.
the spot chosen is where Kit knew that the shadow of Katherine’s Cross fell on the Spring and autumn Equinox. the puzzle solver would need to be in the correct place, on the right day, at the requisite time to unearth the golden hare treasure. the book Masquerade was published at the end of august 1979 and the puzzle solved some 2years later Come to “a night of Masquerade” which is the last Event of Masquerade 40. We hope as many people as possible can attend Parkside hall at 7.30pm on Friday 25th October to celebrate this Event which has had an lasting impact on ampthill.
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22 —
OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– STeADY AcoUSTic BEDS & nOrthantS MS thEraPy BEDFOrD FOLK DanCE CLUB Friday 4th october 2019 WILStEaD PLayErS PrESEnt BEDFORD COFFEE MORNING CEntrE BeDFoRD ART SocieTY FOLK SESSION COUNTRY AND FOLK Sunday 13th october 10am-12 noon HARRIERS HALF Meeting, 7.15 for 7.30 start, at THE L ADY MONTHLY SALE elisabeth curtis centre- Riding for 7.30 last Tuesday of the month at Putnoe Heights church DANCE CLUB MARATHON VANISHES the Disabled The Burnaby Arms, Stanley Street, Third Saturday of every month Thursday evenings 8pm – 10pm Bedford, MK418eB Following a short
AGM
there will be a demonstration and a
chance to try Brusho, a powder with interesting artistic uses
Entry is free for members, £5 for visitors. Contact Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for information.
–––––––––––––––––––– MUSIC FOR THE MEMORY iN SANDY Music for the Memory is a not-for-profit organisation providing musical activity sessions on a tuesday afternoon for those with any kind of memory problem (dementia, alzheimer’s and similar conditions) together with their carers. Music for the Memory is a social activity, in an informal and friendly setting, and you don’t have to be able to ‘sing’, and no musical knowledge is required! Enquiries are warmly welcomed by Kathy Mainstone on: 07740 656589 www.musicforthememory.org.uk
cHURcH BARN, cHURcH eND BiDDeNHAM MK40 4RS Its good fun for only £2.50 including refreshments no partner required. ron Law 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com
–––––––––––––––––––– POTTON MUSIC 4 MEMORY every Wednesday afternoon from 2.30pm-4.00pm at Potton community centre, Brook end , Potton. the group is facilitated by a qualified and experienced music therapist and supported by a friendly welcoming and supportive team. If you are living with memory problems, dementia or are a family carer this could be the group for you. We meet together to sing songs old and new, dance, recite poetry in a relaxed space. We always start with tea, coffee and cakes and a chance to chat and catch up with friends or speak to our dementia specialist. When the music starts we are all encouraged to share as fully as we feel able as a valued member of the group. No musical experience required, just come along, relax and enjoy. Please contact us for more information on 01234 210993 or email contact@tibbsdementia.co.uk or just turn up and give it a go. Potton Music 4 Memory is one of the services provided by Tibbs Dementia Foundation a local charity support people to live as fully as possible with dementia.
–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– BUGGY FIT CLASSES THE SANDY thursday 1pm-2pm UKULELE GROUP The Weatherly centre orchard close Biggleswade SG18 0Ne Email: robyn1.sg@gmail.com or 0300 300 5125. tuesday 12-2pm Saxon Pool and leisure centre, Biggleswade £2 per session
WALKING FOOTBALL
tuesday 2pm-3pm @ Saxon Pool & leisure centre, Biggleswade £1.50 per session Please note: all classes are subject to change, physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Meet every Friday at the Baptist chapel Hall, Bedford Road, Sandy. 7pm till 9pm.
BEDFOrD natIOnaL trUSt aSSOCIatIOn. November meeting Tuesday 19th November 2019 Addison centre, Kempston, MK42 8PN 2.30 start Everyone welcome. no need to book just come. Small admission charge Speaker: richard Galley on
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‘BEDFORD HIGHL ANDERS’
richard has been researching the story of the highland Division’s friendly ‘invasion’ of Bedford during the first nine months of WW1. For further information contact Betty thomas on 01480 860 421
–––––––––––––––––––– THE IVEL BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT CENTRE ––––––––––––––––––––
haS a LOVED OnE DIED? Perhaps we can help you at our drop-in centre at: The Community Rooms, Baptist church, 24 London Road, Biggleswade SG18 8EB Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon Telephone: Carole or Jill on 07704 734225 for more information. • a place of friendship, compassion and understanding. • Fully trained bereavement support volunteers are always on hand to listen while you talk through your grief. • Somewhere to meet others coping with bereavement issues. • Come and make new friends
–––––––––––––––––––– 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!
–––––––––––––––––––– MAYFLOWER 50+ SOCIAL CLUB We meet 2-4 pm on Wednesdays at the Labour hall, Crab Lane, and 2-4pm Fridays at St andrews Church - both have disabled access. We also run a lighthearted bingo 2-4pm at the Labour hall on the 2nd & 4th Monday of the month. We play games, cards etc. or just socialise. We have occasional speakers and outings. Entrance £1.50 (plus £1 if bingo) and door-to-door minibus transport is available at £1.50 return. Please contact Iris on 01767 318434 or call or text Brian on mobile 07988 822678 or landline 01767 448954 BiGGleSWADe WeeKlY lUNcH clUB We meet every Wednesday 12-1.45 in the Labour hall, Crab Lane to enjoy a hot 2 course meal and good company. Food is supplied by a local school. Door to door transport is available at £1.50 and the meal costs £5. Mainly for over 50s. For more details contact Shirley Legate on 01767 448954 or 07988 822678.
BEDFOrD trEFOIL GUILD
GUIDING FOR ADULTS
We offers members (women and men 18+) personal and social opportunities, both daytime and evenings, whilst supporting Guiding and Scouting. For more details contact secretary kategroves67@gmail.com or 01234 301575
–––––––––––––––––––– SANDY CONSERVATIVE BOWLING CLUB Our well-established and friendly club with one of the best greens in the county is situated behind the Conservative Club in Bedford road. We are always happy to welcome new members, whether experienced or new bowlers who will be offered coaching. For further details Phone 01767 680697
–––––––––––––––––––– ST ANDREWS BOWLING CLUB at Biggleswade Conservative club Over one hundred years of friendly bowls on our own green Experienced, or new bowlers who will be offered coaching ,will be most welcome to come and join us. For information call 01767 221243 SanDy hIStOrICaL rESEarCh GrOUP exHiBiTioN
–––––––––––––––––––– Saturday 12th october, 10am to 1pm Sandy Town council chamber, cambridge Road. Bring your Sandy memories, photos, etc. Entrance only £2 (Members free) refreshments available
SANDY AT WAR
–––––––––––––––––––– WHIST DRIVE 2nd and 4th Thursday in the month BiDDeNHAM VillAGe HAll 7.30pm
Based on the classic 1938 alfred hitchcock film which itself was based on the book ‘the Wheel Spins’ by Ethel Lina White, this stage adaptation by Derek Webb captures the feel of the original 1930s novel. Wilstead Village Hall at 7.30pm on Friday the 18th and Saturday 19th of october. tickets priced at £10 will be available from the Box Office from 9th October on Bedford 740782. Further information available from Colin West. Colinjohnwest4@gmail.com
–––––––––––––––––––– aDDISOn CEntrE KEMPStOn FUnD raISInG
TEA DANCE
MoNDAY 14th ocToBeR 2019 2.00-4.30pm £3.00 (InCL CUPPa) tel: 01234 851877 or 01234 340997
–––––––––––––––––––– BEDFOrD FLOraL art SOCIEty Tuesday october 1st at the Addison centre, Kempston at 7.30pm
Floral demonstration by yvonne tan entitled
‘HOLIDAY IN THE SUN’ Visitors welcome £7 www.bedfordfloralartsociety.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––– WHAT’S ON AT THE COWPER & NEWTON MUSEUM
‘FABRic’ by Charlotte Prior october 1, 10:30am - october 31, 4:30pm Inspired by the use of colour, Charlotte has been drawn to the work of Mark rothko and Expressionism. textiles become both the palette and the canvas, creating slabs of colour as her work demonstrates. admission to the Gallery is free. (Usual adult admission fee applies to see the museum and gardens). GeoRGiAN cHRiSTMAS cRAFTS ocToBeR HAlF TeRM HoliDAY FAMilY FUN october 29, 10:30 am - November 2, 4:30pm Getting ready for a ‘Georgian Christmas’ We need your help to create our own sumptuous ‘Georgian Christmas’ for visitors in December. It’s going to be gorgeous. Children’s trail and crafts. £1 per child. Usual adult admission fee applies.
–––––––––––––––––––– BIGGLESWADE WALK 4 HEALTH rEGULar WEEKLy WaLKS Walks for beginners and those looking to improve two regular weekly walks of 40 – 90 minutes Wednesdays at 10.00am Walking with John and his team Dan albone Car Park, Shortmead Street SG18 0BQ Thursdays at 10.00am Walking with rosario and his team from Stratton School, Eagle Farm road SG18 8JB FoR THoSe looKiNG To Do A SeRioUS WAlK oF 5 MileS PlUS: Tuesday Afternoon at 2pm Booking essential (This walk is not part of Walk 4 health and walkers walk at their own risk) Walking with Janette: approx. 90 mins. Start points vary – phone or email Janette for details Janette Sibley tel: 07771 540117 email: janette@sibley.me.uk Mike Fayers Bedfordshire health Walks Manager, Bedfordshire rural Communities Charity tel: 01234 832619 email: mikef@bedsrcc.org.uk the Old School, Cardington. MK44 3SX St anDrEW’S ChUrCh, aMPthILL
ART EXHIBITION AND SALE
Saturday 19th october 10am-5pm Sunday 20th october 11am -4pm Enquiries 01525 404625 Email a_bhodges@btinternet.com
every Monday 8.30pm at Saxon Pool SG18 8SU 12 and older, both sexes come along and join the fun
–––––––––––––––––––– SANDY TOWN BOWLING CLUB Play bowls at this friendly local club adjacent to Sandy Village hall. Excellent green. Experienced and new bowlers welcome. Coaching available. More details: Secretary: Kevin Hurry 01767 692567 sandytownbowlingclub.org.uk
BEDFOrDShIrE FaMILy hIStOry SOCIEty Friday 4th october 2019 Interested in Family history? then come along to our talk on
THE SPANISH FLU PANDEMIC IN BEDFORD & BEYOND
By Maurice Nicholson 7.15 p.m. Drama hall, Mark rutherford School Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk
Sunday 1st December 2019 from Wootton Upper School. Entries can be made via Bedford harriers website. KEMPStOn MUSICaL SOCIEty present
–––––––––––––––––––– SONGS FROM THE MUSICALS
Transfiguration church Hall Bedford Road, Kempston Saturday 26th october 2019 at 7.30pm tickets will cost £7.50 to include light refreshments
We meet every Monday at 9.00 a.m. by the letter box at the junction of the Crescent and the Green. the walk is a first level gentle walk so we do about 30 – 40 minutes in the flat fields beyond Beeston Green. I will walk as slowly as the slowest person needs. It’s a ‘just turn up’ walk. Gillian Wilkes 07890 232685 grewilkes@gmail.com
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TENNIS FOR
BEGINNERS CHILDREN – ADULTS SENIORS EXPERIENCED PL AYERS jack@bremed.co.uk Jack: 01767 692242
ALL WELCOME www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––– BLACK CRICKET KIDS CLUB Great for aspiring animal keepers, entomologists and herpetologists. First Wednesday of every month in Shortstown Village Hall, Southcote, Shortstown, Bedford, MK42 0Ql. Fun, educational and entertaining sessions for children aged 5 - 13 who love animals, pets and wildlife. Children with SEnD are warmly welcomed and sessions are differentiated to meet individual needs. Sessions are £5 per child (siblings £3). registration is required. www.blackcricket.co.uk/kids-club www.facebook.com/blackcricketkidsclub Email: kidsclub@blackcricket.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON GARDENS ASSOCIATION
If you are interested gardening why not come along to our meetings. We meet the second Wednesday of most months of the year in all Saints Church hall, Cemetery road Kempston. We have speakers and demonstrations covering every aspect of gardening For further information contact trevor on
01234 856040 or Marian on 01234 855288
MOGGErhanGEr KEEP FIt GrOUP
–––––––––––––––––––– At the Village Hall, Fridays 9.30-10.30. tina or Josh take us through a lighthearted sequence with a warm-up, exercises designed to improve muscular fitness, brain co-ordination, balance and general well-being, then a cool-down. It’s not over-strenuous, we have fun, feel good – and pay only £5 a session. So why not come and join us? For more information call tony or Judith on 640124.
GET FIT KEEP FIT
Wednesdays 8pm to 10 pm £2 per session – first evening free no partner required. Beginners welcome. The Reading Room, 1, Barkers lane, Bedford. ring tim 01234 317847 for more details
–––––––––––––––––––– We meet on the first Wednesday of every month (except august) at 7.30pm in Sandy Conservative Club. We are a very friendly group and visitors (£4) will receive a very warm welcome and enjoy a varied programme and refreshments. Our next meeting on 2nd October is a Beetle Drive come along and try us out for fun. For more information please look at our website www.sandynightowlswi.com or email sandynightowlswi@gmail.com
Avenue, MK42 0NT Contact hannah Mason for more information on hmason1990@msn.com Check out ‘London road Methodist Church’ on FaCEBOOK for more details.
FAMILY FILM AFTERNOON SHOWCASING ‘CHRISTOPHER ROBIN’
Saturday 19th october 3.30pm until 6.00pm We shall be watching the latest Christopher robin film on large screen. Suggested donation £1 per person. this includes colouring and masks before the film starts at roughly 4pm. refreshments available to purchase including popcorn, candy floss, drinks etc. all funds raised will go to an urgent building project within the church.
–––––––––––––––––––– St Mary’S, CarLtOn
CHRISTMAS BAZA AR
carlton Village Hall Saturday 23rd November 1.30-4.00 Christmas starts here. Visit our fantastic collection of stalls for all your Christmas shopping needs under one roof. Entry £1 for adults, children free. Grand Draw at 3.30.
–––––––––––––––––––– BIDDEnhaM GarDEnErS aSSOCIatIOn Tuesday 15th october 2019 at 7.30 Biddenham Village Hall
“Alpines and Bulbs”
By rob Potterton Visitors very welcome admission £5 per meeting – includes raffle & refreshments
Do YoUR BiNS Go oUT MoRe THAN YoU? THeN lADieS ciRcle iS FoR YoU! Ladies Circle is a membership club for women aged 18 to 45 who want to make new friends, have lots of fun, do things t Whether you’re new to the Biggleswade area, or are just looking to broaden your social life. the group is a perfect way of getting more out of life. Members include single and married women, those with children and those without, working and not working,everyone’s welcome to come along and just be themselves! Email: biggleswadecircle@gmail.com twitter: @BwadeCircle. Facebook: Biggleswade Ladies Circle
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–––––––––––––––––––– SANDY WALKS 4 HEALTH Sandy Walks 4 health meet every Wednesday. these are free short walks ofabout an hour, with a trained walk leader. no need to book; just turn up. Walks start at 10am, meeting in SandyLibrary in the town centre. For more information contact: Cathy Bailey 01767 692182, or Jane Janaway 01767 691455, or Mike Fayers (Health walks manager) 01234 832619
–––––––––––––––––––– We invite all stroke survivors & their carers to join our
Meetings are held at Stonecroft, St Swithins Way, Sandy on the third Monday of each month 7.30pm. transport can be arranged. Speakers, outings & entertainment througout the year. Please contact 01767 680503 for further imformation.
IVEL STROKE CLUB
chestnut Ave, Bromham MK43 8HP. Come and meet our horses. raffle, refreshments and More..... MID BEDS FLOWEr CLUB Thursday 10th october at 7.45pm Flitwick Village Hall Jane Ellis is demonstrating her title is
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Visitors welcome £6.00 more details contact Marion tucker tel: 01234 742396
“AUTUMN GLORY” SanDy hIStOrICaL SOCIEty
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–––––––––––––––––––– BURGOYNE FAMILY & SUTTON BELLS AND PARK WHISTLES a JOInt COnCErt By Biddenham Handbell Ringers and Peregrine Recorder orchestra Saturday 9th November at 7:30pm Putnoe Heights church Bedford MK41 8eB tickets £7.50 accompanied children free InCLUDES light refreshments In aid of ‘traidcraft’
–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– BEESTON WALK loNDoN RoAD MeTHoDiST ChrISt thE KInG ParISh haLL cHURcH FOR HEALTH harrowden road, Bedford MK42 0SP corner of london Road/Barford
SANDY NIGHT OWLS –––––––––––––––––––– WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm CEntEnary haLL, behind Kempston town hall, Bedford road For further information telephone: 01234 347306
10am - 12.00 noon Entrance 50p adults FrEE ParKInG Clothing, Bric a Brac, Books, Linen, toys and Games refreshments available 155 Barkers Lane, Bedford. MK41 9rX tel: 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com
–––––––––––––––––––– BIGGLESWADE –––––––––––––––––––– WATERPOLO
–––––––––––––––––––– IRISH CEILI AND SET DANCING ––––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON SENIOR POTTON LADIES’ CITIZENS’ CLUB CLUB DanCInG, WhISt, BInGO Potton ladies club meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm at Mill lane Pavilion, Mill lane Potton. SG19 2PG We have a range of speakers, a lunch club & numerous day trips. Visitors are always welcome for £5, to include light refreshments.
BeDFoRD MK41 7RU. all abilities Beginners very welcome. Info from Mike 01234 308449 Facebook: Burnaby steady session see also Bedfordshire beginners melodeon playgroup
9am to noon Saturday 12th october Entry 50p refreshments available, tables £5 - must be prebooked. For information call on 01234 965497
TABLE TOP SALE 2-4pm Friday 25th october
AFTERNOON VINTAGE TEA
admission £4 - tea, home-made cake and friendship For Information call 01234 326291
–––––––––––––––––––– 3T’S TODDLER GROUP We are a (non-profit making) Toddler Group who meet at centenary Hall, 104 Bedford Road, Kempston on Tuesday from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm (term time only) Contact: Debbie on 07975 –772-058 or Suzanne on 01234-857467.
–––––––––––––––––––– ST ANDREWS BOWLING CLUB at BIGGLESWaDE COnSErVatIVE CLUB over one hundred years of friendly bowls on our own green Experienced, or new bowlers who will be offered coaching, will be most welcome to come and join us. For information please call 01767 221243
–––––––––––––––––––– TIDDLYWINKS TODDLER PL AYGROUP
Meeting at Kempston Hammers Sports & Social club every Thursday 9.30 till 11.00am school term time only all children welcome from new born to preschool age. Large range of toys,activities and a craft table. refreshments supplied for both children and carers. non profit making playgroup If your require further information just come along or ring ruth on 01234 854657
by Chris Walker Friday October 25th, 7.30pm Stonecroft hall, St Swithins Way, Sandy, SG191BB admission £2.50 including refreshments Members & students free For further details contact 01767 680171.
–––––––––––––––––––– STEWARTBY AMATEUR OPERATIC AND DRAMATIC SOCIETY
Meet Thursdays 7.30 at Stewartby United church Hall, Park crescent. If you are interested in performing (singing acting or dancing),or helping back stage, come along and give us a try. all newcomers welcome! For further information,visit our website: www.saods.org.uk.
–––––––––––––––––––– BIGGLESWADE TRINITY METHODIST CHURCH
Thursday 3rd october a short service at 11.30a.m. in church followed at 12 noon by the monthly lunch Sunday oct 6th 09.30a.m Communion Service led by rev. Dalwyn attwell 10.30a.m Launch of the Shoe Box appeal (we will be supporting rotary International Shoebox appeal) 6.30 p.m (note later time) Space for God Led by rev. Dalwyn attwell. Sunday 13th oct. 10.30a.m rev. Dalwyn attwell this will include communion. Sunday 20th oct. 10.30 a.m Michael Forsyth (all We Can) Our weekly coffee mornings project. 6.00pm. Informal service to be led by rev. Lorna Valentine hopefully band will accompany. Sunday 27th oct. 10.30a.m Mrs Sue Plant will lead service. Sunday 3rd Nov. 10.30 a.m Led by rev. Dalwyn attwell and will include communion. 4p.m (please note earlier time than usual) rev. Dalwyn attwell will lead a memorial service. Thursday 7th Nov 11.30 short service in church followed at 12 noon by monthly lunch (tickets for the Dec lunch will be on sale during this event as it is a ticket only event.) Sunday 10th Nov. 09.30 communion service led by rev. Dalwyn attwell there will nOt be a service at 10.30 but rev Dalwyn attwell will attend the memorial Service in the Market Square. Sunday 17th November the service will be led by hazel hitch and this will be Shoebox Collection Day. 6p.m. Informal service to be led by rev Dalwyn attwell hopefully band will accompany Sunday 24th November this is the church anniversary and will be led by Mr. Ceasar.
–––––––––––––––––––– BIGGLESWADE –––––––––––––––––––– LADIES CIRCLE SANDY WOMEN’S Biggleswade Ladies Circle is a membership club for women aged between 18 -45 INSTITUTE who want to make new friends have fun and put something back to the community. We have now been established for over 59 years. Our Members are from all walks of life and are supported by various honorary Members. We are really keen to expand our membership to include lots more lovely local ladies! We all come from very different backgrounds and have different things going on in our lives and vary in age. We meet twice a month, usually on the 2nd and 4th tuesday of the month in or around Biggleswade there are also many weekend events throughout the circling year. Most of our meetings are social meetings where we try out new things or just meet for a chat. We also have meetings where we discuss current things going on with circle such as upcoming fundraisers or any other business that needs to be discussed. Some examples of past social meetings include knit and natter, car care at Kwikfit, a DVD evening, hearing dogs for the deaf talk, cocktail evenings, bingo, trips to the theater, Christmas crafts, chocolate parties and much more! tel: anne 07791 330391S
Sandy WI was formed in March 2017 and is still going strong. We welcome new members from all age groups and backgrounds. We meet on the third tuesday of each month (except august) at 10.00am in Sandy Conservative Club. We have a full programme of speakers and activities and you are very welcome to join us. If you want to give us a try before committing to full membership you can attend as a visitor, cost £4. Contact our President, Val haygarth, for further information on 01767 691711 valeriehaygarth@btinternet.com..
–––––––––––––––––––– WORLD SHIP SOCIETY Kempston Constitution Club 196a Bedford road, Kempston
BEDFORD BRANCH 3rd thUrSDay in the month telephone: 01234 352014
–––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD EARLY –––––––––––––––––––– DANCE AND MUSIC KEMPSTON AND DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY
Wednesdays from 7.30pm-10.00pm at Kempston east Methodist church new members welcome For further details contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com
Come and enjoy country dances, quadrilles and reels from the regency Period and the world of Jane austen.highly Experienced tuition! Suitable for all enthusiastic dancers. newcomers welcome! Brickhill community centre, Upper Hall, Avon Drive, Bedford MK41 7AF oct 23rd, Nov 1st. Feb 7th March 2020 2-6pm.
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TEL: 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2019
SAT 2ND NOVEMBER 2019
SANTA POD RACEWAY
ONLY £25 PER CAR IN ADVANCE (Plus fees) Exclu des Vans & buses. Max 5 people
SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY MASSIVE BONFIRE FAMILY FUN MONSTER TRUCK RIDES JET CAR FUN FAIR PLUS LIVE STUNTS AND THE PODZILLA MONSTER TRUCK
call 01234 782828 or book online at: PRE-BOOKED TICKETS ONLY
WWW.SANTAPOD.COM
*Booking fees apply, advance prices available until 5pm Friday 25th October. Standard price of £30 thereafter. Tickets subject to availability. See website for T&C’s. No pets, glass bottles or unlicensed vehicles on site. FREE parking with admission. Santa Pod Raceway, Airfield Road, Podington, Wellingborough, Northants, NN29 7XA. Signposted from J14/15 M1
BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
CONCERT BY
ELIZABETH HARRISON WEDNESDAY 30th OCTOBER 7.30 – 10.00pm TEA, COFFEE/BAR/RAFFLE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
£5 PAY AT Members Non-Members £6 DOOR ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford
––––––––––––––––––––––– thE GrEEnSanD trUSt october Half Term at the Working Woodlands Centre in Maulden Wood and rushmere Country Park in heath and reach.
MAGICAL AUTUMN L ANTERN WALK
Thursday 24 october 5.30pm – 7.30pm
HALLOWEEN DISCO Thursday 24 october 6.30pm – 9pm
FEED THE BIRDS
SUNDAY 27 ocToBeR 11AM – 3PM Don’t forget your binoculars! For further information including ticket purchase visit www.greensandtrust.org/whats-on
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Please send your advertisements to: advertising@rosettapublishing.com or call 07894 935952
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24 —
OCTOBER 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
MID BEDS
back
the
MP receives Sandy Central Beds accused of environmental vandalism bypass petition SG19 road Safety Group, a group campaigning for better local roads and a proper bypass for Sandy and Beeston, met with alistair Burt, MP, to present a petition signed by over 2,300 people requesting action be taken by the Government Ministries responsible for highways England and Central Bedfordshire Council. For far too long, our stretch of the a1 has been well below acceptable standards for a trunk road that remains ‘the Great north road’. also present were representatives from the a1 Campaign Group from Buckden who will be working jointly with SG19 to continue pressing the case for completion of the bypass, promised as long ago as 1994, to the communities of Sandy and Buckden by building the ‘missing link’ to the a1M, namely from Baldock junction 10 to alconbury junction 14. Councillors from Sandy town Council and Ward councillors from Central Bedfordshire Council were also present together with Mr Martin Fellows, regional Director for highways England. Concern and anger at the cancellation of the average Speed Camera scheme that had been promised for Sandy and Beeston were expressed strongly to Mr Fellows who agreed to follow up the lack of monitoring of excessive speeds on the a1 as this was all that funding would allow for at present. Mr Burt is arranging further meetings, one with Ministers probably in London, where further representations will be made to the powers that be. the text of the petition reads:
CPrE Bedfordshire has condemned the decision of Central Bedfordshire Council, to approve the construction of a new a6–M1 Link road which will be built entirely in the Green Belt. the road will slice through the southern part of the Chilterns aOnB and seriously impact ancient Woodlands and SSSI sites. this is one of the worst acts of environmental vandalism that CPrE Bedfordshire has encountered. the planning application for the new road was agreed despite strong objections from the Chilterns aOnB Board, natural England, the Chilterns Society, Luton Borough Council, the Woodland trust, and many others. Petitions were signed by over 2,000 local people. Gerry Sansom, Chair of CPrE Bedfordshire said: “We are appalled but not surprised by this decision. this new road will adversely impact wildlife, remove massive areas of open countryside, seriously impact two hugely important ancient Woodlands and the significant Sundon SSSI site. as we have been reporting over the last year, the Leader of CBC, James Jamieson has done everything in his power to push through this new road. his actions include: l Minimal public consultation of the route – it took place through 2018 summer holidays and at very short notice. l removing the actual route from the Local Plan
2035 so that it could not be reviewed by Inspectors at the Local Plan Examination currently underway.” In July CBC agreed to prioritise action on climate change, recognising the need to reduce our carbon footprint and reverse catastrophic biodiversity loss and yet with this road they are doing the opposite. Mr Sansom went on to say: “It makes a complete mockery of Mr Jamieson’s recent claim that his Council will take on board the issues of Climate Change and biodiversity loss that affect us all – it’s now quite clear – for him, it’s business as usual. the true purpose of the road is to enable the development of a new rail/Freight Interchange at J11a of the M1 – no more, no less. It will increase traffic in the area, particularly hGV traffic on the a6 (north and south bound). It will take development to the very edge of the Chilterns aOnB the “Green Lungs” for Luton.” CPrE Bedfordshire will be writing to the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson to ask if James Jamieson, Leader of a Conservative majority Council, has acted with government support on this matter. We will be asking if it is new government policy to agree planning applications which will severely impact areas of Outstanding natural Beauty (aOnB) and the Green Belt, particularly in light of Climate Change and catastrophic biodiversity loss.
Hockey player off to Performance Centre
“We, the undersigned, call on the Departments for Transport and for Communities and Local Government to jointly investigate the present parlous state of the road network in the SG19 area, specifically the A1 through Beeston and Sandy together with the local A and B roads linking with it. We need improvements to the network and its physical condition. We need a proper bypass. “
Further developments will be announced on the group’s website: www.sg19.org. Meanwhile, we call on Mr Burt to fulfil his promises to obtain details of the ‘heat map’ from Defra regarding pollution in Sandy and obtain information about speed cameras for Sandy and Beeston from the Chief Constable. SG19 Road Safety Group
yEar 9 student, Sophia Warren, has recently been selected for the U15 Girls England hockey Performance Centre. Sophia attended trials at Merchant taylors’ School earlier this summer and was selected from a pool of players from across the seven counties of the East anglia region. Sophia has been an active hockey player throughout her time at BMS, and also plays for Leighton Buzzard hockey Club, the last two years at Cambridge City hockey Club and has represented Bedfordshire County for the last three seasons. She worked hard throughout the sum-
mer at various camps and during the stages of selection. Sophia’s parents commented: “We are extremely proud of Sophia’s achievement. We are very aware that the journey will,
the Bulletin is an independent publication, part of rosetta Publishing Ltd. Published by ©2019 rosetta Publishing Limited, 30 radwell road, Milton Ernest Bedford MK44 1Sh. tel: 07894 935952 Editorial: editorial@rosettapublishing.com advertising: advertising@rosetta publishing.com Printed by: reach Printing Services, Kimpton road, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 0SX.
no doubt, have some bumps on the way but Sophia has worked extremely hard over the years and now has her rewards for that.” head of Girls’ Sport at BMS, Miss Woodgate, added: “It is very exciting to hear of Sophia’s recent success in gaining a place at one of the prestigious England hockey Performance Centres. She is a passionate and dedicated hockey player who is fully deserving of this opportunity. Sophia always attends training with enthusiasm and a hunger to learn and develop. We look forward to supporting Sophia as she continues on her journey.”