OCTOBER 2016
THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FOR THE PARISHES OF MILTON ERNEST, PAVENHAM & THURLEIGH
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2 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
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VIEW FROM THE PULPIT
Love and hope prevail he had a health condition that was made worse by the heat and led to a huge heart attack. I remember some of the feelings at the time, but of course at that age I didn’t have the capacity to process what had happened. My Mum remarried a few years later, so I had (and still have) a positive father-figure in my life. My father’s parents were still very much part of our lives, too, giving that sense of family identity (and a lifelong devotion to Sheffield HAT do a wallet, a single Wednesday FC!), but it’s really only sock, a set of keys, a been in the last few years that I’ve mobile phone, a diary and come to see my father as someone an umbrella have in common? I who was not just a set of achieveasked the children at assemblies at ments, but a real human being who Thurleigh and Milton Ernest I would have loved and related to, schools recently. The answer, I’m and who would have been a source afraid, is that I have a habit of losing of wisdom and (I hope) pride as I them – a lot. Vanessa is incredibly went through life. patient with me – it must be very This loss is something that I still frustrating to be heading out of the live with. Indeed, becoming a father house, having spent half an hour myself has helped me see this in a getting little toddler ready for the new way: knowing the depth of my journey, to find things grinding to a relationship with Gus I can see halt as her beloved realises he’s lost what a crushing blow my father’s his wallet… again! death must have been for me at the To write about Ness’s patience time, although I didn’t have the would need a much longer article ‘equipment’ to process it. than this one, but I think that we all Talking or thinking about loss at different times experience and isn’t a pleasant thing to do, but I have to adapt to loss. Some losses wonder if there are others, perhaps may seem trivial – that sock, or on a journey of loss themselves, perhaps a favourite tie or brooch; who identify with my own story,? other losses may involve positive changes – moving home can include Sad though this part of my life has, my life has been enriched as well – sad departures, but usually there’s giving me a sensitivity to darker an exciting new chapter ready to begin. Some losses however can be shades of life. much more difficult to come to Above all I’ve felt God’s love and terms with. care through the valley-times as Two days before my fourth well – yes, in loss there is sadness, birthday my father died suddenly – but in the end it’s love and hope it was the hot Summer of 1976, and that prevail. by REVEREND PETER KAY
W
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We welcome editorial contributions, both written and pictorial, if the contribution relates to a particular village please send your material via email to the appropriate village editor, the subject line of all emails should contain the word ’villager’: MILTON ERNEST: Mrs Sarah Winter, 21 Arkwright Road, Milton Ernest, Tel: 01234 826402 adrian_sarahwinter@btinternet.com PAVENHAM: Dr Chris Holt, Meadowcroft High Street, Pavenham MK43 7NP Tel: 01234 825479 chrisholt@fastmail.fm THURLEIGH: Adrienne Larkin, Breaside Cottage, High Street, Thurleigh MK44 2DB Tel: 01234 771078 adriennelarkin_2@hotmail.com
PRiNTED By:
Mortons Print Limited, Newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston Road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR Material for general pages: martin.quince@btinternet.com Please, please put ‘villager’ in the subject line, if you do this you will receive an acknowledgement of receipt. Any material submitted will be subject to editorial appraisal and any necessary changes will be made without referral to the author. We will endeavour to publish material in its entirety but reserve the absolute right to amend or omit any material we deem not factual, illegal or in bad taste! OCTOBER 2016
THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FOR THE PARISHES OF MILTON ERNEST, PAVENHAM & THURLEIGH
A reminder – if you needed it that by the time you read this summer will all but have gone. Time to consider putting the heating on!
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 3
Come and enjoy a FREE taster session, singing rock and pop music with Bedford’s community choir. No audition required. Wednesdays 7.30pm Kings House, Ampthill Road Get in touch for more information: 01234 765319 aliveandsinging@gmail.com www.aliveandsinging.com
Pots of Fun hand paints, custom ceramic gifts for all occasions. Hand and footprints a speciality. Mobile service available on request, covering North Beds. Ring Sue 01788 860043 or e-mail enquiries@potsoffun.co.uk www.potsoffun.co.uk
Antiques Showroom Open Days Friday 11th & Saturday 12th November 10am-4pm A wide selection of Antiques including furniture, silver, antique maps, pottery, glassware and paintings. Tea room open on both days serving hot drinks & homemade cakes www.williamsantiques.co.uk 1 Hampshire Buildings, School Lane, Colmworth, Bedford. MK44 2JZ
01234 378866
4 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
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SERVICES All Saints’, Milton Ernest, St Peter’s, Pavenham and St Peter’s, Thurleigh 2nd October Trinity 19
Milton Ernest ............. 9.30am..............Holy Communion Pavenham...................11.15am..............Holy Communion Thurleigh ...................11.15am..............Morning Worship
9th October Trinity 20
Milton Ernest ............. 9.30am..............Morning Worship Pavenham...................11.15am..............Sunday 2gether Thurleigh ...................11.15am..............United Holy Communion
16th October Trinity 21
Milton Ernest ............. 9.30am..............Holy Communion Pavenham...................11.15am..............Holy Communion Thurleigh ................... 3.00pm .............Chapel Thanksgiving service
23rd October Milton Ernest ............. 8.00am..............Holy Communion (BCP) Last Sunday after Trinity Milton Ernest ............. 9.30am..............Morning Worship Pavenham...................11.15am..............Morning Worship Thurleigh ...................11.15am..............United Morning Worship 30th October 4th Sunday before Advent
Milton Ernest ............. 9.30am..............Holy Communion Pavenham...................11.15am..............Morning Worship Thurleigh ...................11.15am..............United Holy Communion
6th November All Saints Day
Milton Ernest ............. 9.30am..............Benefice Holy Communion
HC = Holy Communion BCP = Book of Common Prayer Children are welcome at all our services
VILLAGER CONTACT DIRECTORY VICAR
Rev’d Peter R Kay........................☎ 918027 The Vicarage, Thurleigh Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1RF email: rev.peter.kay@outlook.com ASSOCIATE MINISTER Sue Ives............................☎ 07973 920387 BENEFICE ADMINISTRATOR: Mrs Sarah Croft .................... 07948 024312 email: parishbeneficeoffice@gmail.com
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BAPTIST MODERATOR, THURLEIGH & KEYSOE ROW: Revd Peter Protheroe, The Maples, Colmworth Road, Little Staughton MK44 2BY.. 378806
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CHURCHWARDENS All Saints’ Milton Ernest: Mrs Ann Maltby, Holly Tree Cottage, Flewton End, Milton Ernest, MK44 1RE.............. 826164 Mrs Jean Coplin, 27d Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH ............ 589618
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St Peter’s Pavenham: Pat Byatt ..................................................... 826101 Terry Horsman, The Knoll, High Street, Pavenham. MK43 7PD .................. 825711
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St Peter’s Thurleigh: Mr Richard Singleton, 13 Keysoe Road, Thurleigh ....................................... 771952
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THURLEIGH BAPTIST DEACONS: Mr David Lloyd, 102 Poplar Avenue, Bedford MK41 8BP (Deacon and Treasurer)..... 262125 CHURCH KEY HOLDERS: All Saints’ Milton Ernest: Mrs Marianne Lowe, 12 Church Green, Milton Ernest ................................. 825543 or contact the Churchwardens St Peter’s Pavenham: contact the Churchwardens St Peter’s Thurleigh: contact the Churchwardens Mrs C. Blair, 2 The Close, Thurleigh... 771035 Thurleigh Baptist Chapel: Mrs Lilian Wildman, 8 Keysoe Road, Thurleigh MK44 2DY ...................... 772797
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SCHOOLS: Milton Ernest VC Lower School Head Teacher: Lisa Virnuls.......... 822079 Thurleigh Lower School and Thurleigh Pre-School Playgroup Head Teacher: Verity Kenyon ....... 771252 Pinchmill Lower School Head Teacher: Mrs Vanessa Coleman................... 781371 Pinchmill Pre-School Play Leader: Jemma Skinner.............................. 781770 YOUTH CLUBS:
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Leaders: Mrs Vicky Parry....................
PARISH COUNCILS: Milton Ernest: Chairman: Mr Steve Dilley, 13 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1RY. ............. 824635 Parish Clerk: Sue Bottoms ............. 751300 sue.x999@btinternet.com Pavenham: Chairman: Mr John Stamford, 34 The Bury, Pavenham MK43 7PY.................... 823041 Parish Clerk: Dr P R Sharpe, East End Farm, Pavenham MK43 7PR.................... 823423 Thurleigh: Chairman: Mr Michael Thompson ... 771033 orchardhouse2000@aol.com Parish Clerk: Mrs Carol O’Brien, Red Lion House, 2 High Street, Thurleigh, MK44 2DB ............................................. 772385 ext 1 thurleighpc@gmail.com MILTON ERNEST WI Mrs Ann Kirk (President) The Beeches, Thurleigh Road MK40 1RF ............ 823711
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PAVENHAM WI Mrs Kathleen Bennett, 51 The Bury, Pavenham ............................... 824109 Mrs Jenny Evans, 52 The Bury, Pavenham, MK43 7PY. .................. 823620
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VILLAGE HALL BOOKINGS: Milton Ernest: Mrs Helen Eyre, 14 Huntsman’s Way, Milton Ernest MK44 ISA......... 824508 Pavenham: Mrs Katie Sharpe .......... 824735 Thurleigh: Pat Edwards, Beech Tree House, 26A High Street, Thurleigh . 01234 772317
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THE VILLAGER MAGAZINE Subscriptions and Distribution: Mr and Mrs Gerry Stafford, Milton Ernest Mrs Kathleen Bennett, The Bury, Pavenham ...................................................... 824109 Fiona Parlett ,1 Chapelfields, Thurleigh ....................................... 771908 ADVERTISEMENTS/TREASURER: Mrs Jenny Evans, 52 The Bury, Pavenham .................................... 823620 email: david_jenny@btinternet.com EDITORS: Milton Ernest: Mrs Sarah Winter, 21 Arkwright Road, Milton Ernest .. 826402 email: adrian_sarahwinter@btinternet.com Pavenham: Dr Chris Holt, Meadowcroft High Street, Pavenham MK43 7NP 825479 email: chrisholt@fastmail.fm Thurleigh: Adrienne Larkin, Breaside Cottage, High Street, Thurleigh MK44 2DB 771078 Email: adriennelarkin_2@hotmail.com Co-ordinating: Mr Martin Quince, 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH................ 823724 email: martin.quince@btinternet.com CONTACTS FOR VILLAGE ORGANISATIONS Milton Ernest Playing Field Association: Parish Clerk: Sue Bottoms ............. 751300 sue.x999@btintertnet.com Toddlers: Fiona .................... 07909 748354 Milton Ernest Ramblers Gerry Stafford ................................... 823060
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18.09.2016, all
☎. nos. listed are Bedford Code (01234)
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 5
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6 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
Domestic, regular & spring cleans, tenancy beginning and end, builder’s cleans, commercial and contract. FREE ESTIMATES Bramble Lodge, 29 Oakley Rd, Clapham MK41 6AN www.naocleaningservices.co.uk www.mptchurches.org.uk
MILTON ERNEST NEWS Village correspondent: Mrs Sarah Winter — Tel: 826402
NEWS FROM ALL SAINTS’ PCC
Wildlife event at Garden Centre MILTON Ernest Garden Centre’s Wildlife Day was a great success with lots of Mums, Dads and Children enjoying the variety of wildlife, some native, some not. Our charity contributors Woodland Trust, Wildlife Trust and RSPB were enthusiastically helping us to enjoy our wildlife and its conservation. Chris Lewis, our village beekeeper, was here talking about his passion for the bees with hints on encouraging them to your garden and recipes for enjoying his honey. The members of the Birds of Prey Society brought along lots of hunting birds and raptors for us to admire. These beautiful birds are wrist trained and some have
been hand reared. Derek Henderson from Clapham showed some amazing photographs all taken locally. Derek also offers special wildlife photographic days. Contact him via the Garden Centre. Several young people were brave enough to hold Simon’s Spiders and Millipedes while Zak took his Boa Constrictor for a ‘walk’ across the grass to the fascination of many young visitors. All this was accompanied by the music of Panache. Ellie, who is only four-years-old, won our children’s competition with her collage of an owl. Well Done Ellie. Next year’s Wildlife Day will be Sunday 10th September 2017.
Calling all gardeners and others THERE is a churchyard clearup working party at All Saints’ scheduled for Saturday October 22nd from 09:30 ‘til whenever Everybody welcome. Refreshments provided. All Saints Harvest Festival September 25th (oops). YES... it’s already gone!
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However, we intend to keep collection donations of money and warm clothing (Socks/ Scarves/Gloves etc) in aid of the Prebend Day Centre for the homeless and rootless in Bedford at Sunday services right up to the middle of October. Please give generously.
AT the meeting on 5th September of the Parochial Church Council of All Saints’ Milton Ernest, matters spiritual, liturgical, pastoral and practical were discussed in fellowship and good humour: Amongst others were: Spiritual: During October and November, there will be a series of four Monday evening meetings on the subject of Prayer entitled “Kneeling with Giants”. More details in the Pew Sheets or from any member of the congregation. Everybody welcome. Liturgical: Significant Sunday services coming up: Harvest Festival September 25th at which collections of warm clothing and money will be taken for the Prebend Day Centre. NB: collections will also be taken on the following three Sundays. All Saints’ Patronal Festival November 6th Benefice Holy Communion at 9:30am Remembrance Sunday, 13th November at 9:30 am, including an Act of Remembrance for the Fallen. A wreath donated by the Parish Council will be laid and the names of the fallen will be read out. Christmas Carol Service on Sunday 18th December at 6pm will be a service of nine lessons and carols. Cristingle Service at 4 pm on Christmas Eve. All proceeds to the Children’s Society. Come Early – Come Rejoicing. Midnight Mass: A traditional candle lit service begins at 11:30 pm on Christmas Eve. NB: It is hoped that the Church will again be floodlit during the Christmas period this year. Pastoral: Our thoughts and prayers are with the Families of Fred Nash and Doris Pugh, whose funerals took place over the Summer and whose ashes are interred in the Memorial Garden. We continue to pray for the joyous union of Emma Liley and Josh Maguire whose wedding was celebrated in church on August 6th. In line with All Saints’ policy on charitable giving, the PCC have again this year, voted
to support equally, three charities with a tithe on the church income from regular/ plate giving. The three charities are: Local: St John’s Hospice Moggerhanger National: Crisis at Christmas International: SEDCU supporting educationally disadvantaged children in Uganda. Practical: In response to the lead theft, a roof alarm has been installed on the Church. Notices have been affixed to the church wheelie bins indication that ‘dog faeces’ should not be put in these bins but in the special bins around the village. Notably on the corner of Church Green and Thurleigh Road. More News from All Saints’ elsewhere in this and future issues of The Villager.
PETER SAUNDERS (PCC SECRETARY)
Dog walkers A PLEA to all dog walkers: when picking up after your dog, please put your poopscoop bags in the red bins provided and not any grey wheelie bins. There have been full poop-scoop bags left in the bins by the church. Stickers have now been put on the bins to remind dog walkers where NOT to put their waste bags. We are very fortunate in this village to have six ‘dog’ bins. These are located in: Riverside Meadow, Radwell Road (opposite Garden Centre), Radwell Road (near junction of A6), River Lane, Thurleigh Road (opposite Marsh Lane) and in Marsh Lane (by the entrance to field leading to Flewton End). The bins are emptied regularly.
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 7
STOP THIEF! In response to the theft of lead from the roof of All Saints’ in June the PCC have installed a Roof Alarm system. In the event of an attempted theft, the strobe/siren will be activated and a guard will be on site within minutes to check the perimeter of the building. Work on the replacement roofing is due for completion this month.
8 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
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What’s On in Milton Ernest VILLAGE LUNCHES
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The next village lunches at The Queen’s Head The next village lunches at The Queen’s Head
are Friday 14th October and Friday 11th November Don’t forget our Christmas lunch on December 9th If you want to cancel or book phone Bev on 822412
BRIDGE Come and join us and catch up with people over a pleasant lunch.
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The next sessions for beginners and improvers are The next sessions for beginners and improvers are
Friday 7th October and Friday 4th November in Milton Ernest Village Hall at 2.30pm All are welcome to join our relaxed sessions. Any queries please phone Ann Kirk 823711
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MILTON ERNEST WI
MORNING COFFEE
BALLROOM AND LATIN DANCING
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Thursday 20th October at 7.30pm Thursday 17th November
is a members evening.
is a talk about Bedford Food Bank which is the charity we are supporting this year. MILTON ERNEST VILLAGE HALL
The next coffee shop will be on
FRIDAY 28th OCTOBER at 9.30-11.15am This month Arthritis Research UK will have a stall selling Christmas Cards and goods. If you need any help to get to there let us know and we can arrange some assistance.
at Milton Ernest Village Hall on
Sundays at 11am – 12.30pm Call Christine on 07814 013622
BOOK CLUB
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We are an informal discussion group that meets on the SECOND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH at 7.45pm at The Queen’s Head Hotel. New members are always welcome.
13 October
Please come and support us.
For more details phone: Lynda on 823618 or Ann on 822773
“The Husband’s Secret” by Liane Moriarty.
Hope you will be able to join us. Any queries phone Ann Kirk 823711
We look forward to seeing you there
10 November
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“Tulip Fever” By Deborah Moggach
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CAR BOOT SALE MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE
Sunday 16th October £5 Per Car
CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAYRE
Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th November
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENING
TEA ‘n’ CHAT MILTON ERNEST VILLAGE HALL
The next Tea n Chat will be:
FRIDAY 21st October from
2.30 - 4.15pm
8 December “Exposure” by Helen Dunmore For more information please ring Marion on 825825
PILATES
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Milton Ernest Village Hall
Come along for friendly company, a cuppa and a chat on the third Friday of each month throughout the year, all welcome, Tea, Cake and a Chat for only £2.
Tuesday mornings 10 – 11am
Wednesday 30th November
If you need help with transport or more information phone: Gerry on 823060 or Chris on 823618.
All levels welcome Free first class, then pay as you go (£4)
We look forward to seeing you there.
Call Nola 07793 056122
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Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 9
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New bannermaking project
LOOKING BACK TO 1926
AS THE Easter Banner completed earlier this year has been well received, it has been suggested that a new banner be designed and made, with the theme of ‘Creation’. Those who were involved in making the first banner have been approached, to consider being creative once again, but also we would love to have more people participating in the project. If this is something you would enjoy, please do consider being involved. We will probably meet together some time in November to make plans... please watch this space in the next magazine for more details! Peter Kay, our Vicar, has spoken with Lisa Virnals, head teacher at our village school, and once again the children will be invited to participate in a competition to produce an appropriate design, which proved so successful for the first banner. Please do remember this new project in prayer and consider whether or not you would personally like to be involved. If you would like to know more, please have a word with Pat Saunders or any of the others previously involved... Cath Browning, Jean Coplin, Nina Ovenden, Sheila Roy, Lizzie Walton. Thank you for thinking about this possibility.
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Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 11
Fete money handed out
Grants for students’ studies DO you live in Milton Ernest? Are you currently attending sixth form, college, an apprenticeship or university etc? The Turnor Rolt Charity can offer grants towards the costs of books, equipment, study trips etc. If you think you, or a friend in the village, might benefit from such assistance, please get in touch with one of the trustees for further information on how to apply. Jo Williams wookiewilliams@hotmail.co.uk 822218 Rev Peter Kay rev.peter.kay@outlook.com David Snowball david.snowball@tiscali.co.uk Ann Maltby annmaltby1@gmail.com –––––––––––––––––––
MONEY raised at the 2016 Milton Ernest Fete will go towards projects in the community. More than £3,000 was generated through the event on the last Saturday in June – most of it coming from advertising, sponsorship and the raffle. Beneficiaries of 50-50 split between the church and the village were the Playing Fields Association (PFA) who got more than £1200, the Lower School who got £300 and All Saints Church who got £1500. Parish Councillor Jo Williams, chairman of the PFA, said her group’s money would go towards the surface areas that support the equipment at the site which is at the end of Huntsman’s Way. “We are in the process of getting quotes for the project,” she said. “But we may need around £10,000 and will be looking to secure other grants. We are very grateful to the fete committee for its continuing support.” The school will soon decide where its money will go while the share given to the church will go into the fund that will have to help pay for the lead needed for the roof following the theft earlier this year. The total raised through the fete was £3034.22. It was more than £300 up on 2015 and £750 up on 2014 which was badly affected by the weather. Although the event does well financially, organisers are always looking for more people to help make it an even better day out for all the family. And that’s something for people to think about before planning starts for the next fete. Pictures show (right) Jo Williams, left, of the PFA and committee member Tess Sharman; and (top) Harley Dowe, left, from Milton Ernest Lower School, with committee members Cristina Goldwin and Charlie Sharman.
12 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
WI REPORT BY VALERIE LINCOLN A MONTH’S gap in August does not mean your village W.I has gone away. Oh no! Indeed we’ve had a busy time. A lively outing to Jordan’s Mill and a charity lunch that raised £125.50 for the Bedford food bank has kept us occupied and in touch with friends. September has seen our first formal meeting back in the village hall and this was a talk given by Amanda Goody on John Howard the prison reformer. A fascinating man who suffered much sadness in his personal life yet bought so much relief and humanity to our appalling prison system in the 1700’s. A man to be celebrated not only here in his native county but worldwide! The next meeting is on 20th October and is a member’s night. This will involve members chatting to each other about a variety of topics ranging from memorable holidays to hobbies and crafts and even life experiences. So why not come and meet us? We are still collecting items for the food bank and would like beverages this month please.
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MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE HORTICULTURAL SHOW WITH a poor growing season of cold nights in spring and high temperatures in August we wondered how many entries there would be to win those coveted Milton Ernest Garden Centre Prize Vouchers. The sun shone as David and Stewart sat at registration awaiting the rush of entrants. We were not disappointed. Over 60 competitors struggled with massive Onions, Runner Beans, Pumpkins, armfuls of flowers, stunning floral displays, plates of delicious Cakes, Jams, Chutneys, stunning Paintings, cosy Knits and beautiful Photographs. Exhibitors descended like bees around a honey pot to present their produce. In the Horticultural classes Tom Jones exhibited 3 massive onions that would last a family for weeks. With so much sun in August the Tomato classes were fiercely contested with over 24 exhibits trying to impress our judge Terry Parish. Congratulations to Ruth Norman for winning this class and Barbara Ebbage for winning with the best Squash. The longest Runner Bean was won by Peter Jackson. In the Flower classes everyone was amazed by the size and quality of the Chrysanths exhibited by National Grower and Breeder Ron Jones from Clapham. Then there was the Great Milton Ernest Bake Off. Savoury and Sweet Scones were in abundance with Chris Purdy winning with “the best scones he’d ever tasted” according to Stewart from the Garden Centre who accompa-
nied the judge as the “official taster”. He was really just very hungry! The Victoria Sponge was hotly contested with Denise Gower claiming 1st prize. Arts and Craft entries were double last year with beautiful Knitting, Crochet and Patchwork adorning the tables. There were over 20 paintings
in the Flower class and again in the Portrait class. Both were won by Angela Edmonds with 2 great exhibits that had the judge drooling. The photography section was again very well supported with over 85 lovely pics. Pride of place must go to Carol Harrison who swept the board with 4 first prizes.
Finally we would like to thank everyone who entered the show, the judges and the visitors for making the Milton Ernest Garden Centre Horticultural Show such a huge success again this year. Start planning for next year’s show on Bank holiday Monday 28th August 2017
Beds On Sunday has returned THERE’S good news for anyone missing their copy of the Beds On Sunday newspaper – Milton Ernest Garden Centre are pleased to announce that they are now stocking the newspaper. In my opinion, this is a great excuse to have a delicious coffee (and possibly a bite to eat too) at the Coffee Shop whilst picking up the newspaper – and a brisk walk home again to walk off those calories!
www.mptchurches.org.uk
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 13
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Tel: 01234 855007 Mob: 07795 821595
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Pav Pavenha R Pavenh Pave Pavenham Ru Rushwork
Have a handmade garden hat. Put all your eggs in one basket and have another one for plants/bread/ kitchen utensils/ remotes etc. To buy/order tel: 01234 823021
“A little piece of history”
Website: www.telopeaMSL.com Email: services@telopeamsl.com Telephone: Jodie, Caren, Lloyd or Brenda on 01234 248969
Warmth with a real log fire
FIREWOOD LOGS Seasoned Hardwood Delivered by the load
Tel: Bedford 721086 14 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
www.mptchurches.org.uk
PAVENHAM NEWS Edited by Dr Chris Holt — Tel: 825479
SERVICE TIMES and ROTAS DATE
TIME
HYMN CHOOSERS
FLOWERS
October 2
11.15 am
Mr and Mrs Bliss
Post Harvest Festival
October 9
11.15 am
Mr And Mrs Bliss
Mrs Viv Kirby
October 16
11.15 am
Mrs I Game
Mrs Viv Kirby
October 23
11.15 am
Mr and Mrs Horsman
Mrs Dorothy Blakemore
October 30
11.15 am
Mr and Mrs Byatt
Mrs Dorothy Blakemore
Please note: I’ve been unable to find anyone who will draw up a list of Hymn choosers for October so I’ve drawn up my own list based on recent history. Chris Holt
Sunday 2gether this term
We have been delighted with the response to Sunday 2gether, our less formal, all age services held between January and July this year. Our aim is to continue to provide this type of service on the second Sunday of each month. However, the pattern is slightly different this term to take account of other special events: September 11th Pets service
All creatures great and small…
Normal Sunday 2gether Remembrance day service (Sunday 2gether) December 11th Christingle 2gether at 3pm The Christingle service will have a fresh look this year. Why not come along with the whole family to mark the beginning of the festive season? If you prefer a more traditional service then 1st and 3rd Sundays are when we celebrate communion. All 4th and 5th Sundays this term will be Morning Worship – no communion and less formal in style, so there’s something for everyone! We look forward to meeting you - a warm welcome awaits, not to mention good coffee and biscuits! October 9th November 13th
An evening of local history The sale of the Bury Estate MURRAY Dilks and Peter Daniel will examine events leading up to the sale of the Bury Estate in 1910, the reasons why the sale took place and the sale itself and its aftermath. You are invited to bring along any photographs, including those taken in the 1950s, 60s and 70s, maps or documents relating to the village.
7.30pm SATURDAY, 19th NOVEMBER IN THE VILLAGE HALL, PAVENHAM TICKETS AT £5 MAY BE OBTAINED FROM MURRAY DILKS, PETER DANIEL OR JANE ROFF. A bar will be available and all proceeds will be donated to charity.
www.mptchurches.org.uk
…came together for a second year to worship at St Peter’s Church Pet Service on 11th September. Over 35 parishioners came to the service with more than eleven faithful companions ranging from the smallest Dachshund to a giant Leonberger named Solomon! Some brave owners attempted to show and share their dog’s tricks, despite many distractions, and others brought photos of much loved cats whom they cared for and received such pleasure. The service was presided
over by the ‘speaking’ Great Dane Wilfred from the vicarage, whilst the Rev. Peter Kay focused his talk on Psalm 104. This anonymous Psalm is a poetic summary of God’s creation which is written about in Genesis. It appreciates God not only through his whole creation, but also in maintaining His creation. So just as we can seek companionship and give care for our pets, Gods care for us can also be a source of our joy.
SUE HENDERSON
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 15
DE-FORD LANDSCAPE GARDENERS
All garden, tree, fencing and patio work undertaken
■ Mowing, lawn care, turf prep/laying and seeding
■ Weeding and chemical spraying
■ Hedge, shrubs and tree maintenance
■ Gutter clearing and cleaning
■ Fences erected, repaired and painted
■ Patio work, decking, walls and BBQ building
■ Summer and winter hanging baskets and planting
■ Concrete base and shed erecting
ALL YEAR ROUND MAINTENANCE
Contact Debbie and Michael on 01933 350340 or mobile 07786 557361
Ouse Valley Dairy
Why not make the moove over to buying your Fresh Pasteurised Milk and Double Cream straight from your local dairy farm?
Our customers say “It’s delicious”, “It tastes like milk used to taste!” and “mmmmm”!
The Cow “Cube” is open 7-days-a-week from 8am–7pm and sells Skimmed, Semi Skimmed, Whole Milk, and Double Cream You will find us at Church Farm, Turvey Road, Carlton MK43 7LH (On the Carlton to Turvey Road, just near Carlton Church)
Also available at Milton Ernest Garden Centre, Carlton Stores and Scald End Farm Shop.
Tel: 01234 720406 16 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
www.ousevalleydairy.com www.mptchurches.org.uk
PAVENHAM WI WE enjoyed a lively and amusing speaker this month in Mr William French who has worked as steward in the Royal Navy and a butler to members of the rich and privileged as well as to some members of the royal family. Mr French certainly had some interesting experiences in his working life and had a wonderful gallery of photos for us to look at. He seemed to have enjoyed his work which made him a really good speaker. We had quite a lot of business as well, with the dates for the book club and monthly lunch to be publicised and some outstanding matters to be dealt with regarding the flower show. Members were encouraged to enter for the W.I. Only classes as last year these were not well supported. They were for a small flower arrangement in a tea cup and saucer and a pineapple fruit cake, the recipe for this had been circulated. Members were reminded about the Bedfordshire Denman Weekend in 2017 and the Denman Day Visit in
December this year. Also Houghton Conquest are holding an Antiques Valuation Evening. There will be a Christmas Dabble Workshop cost £23 and the annual Carol Concert will take place at All Saints Church Bedford on 2.12.16 tickets cost £8. At our next meeting in October the speaker will be from a Donkey Sanctuary. Four members were presented with Birthday Posies.
BY ROSEMARY BLISS ––––––––––––––––––
Volunteers wanted for Litter Pick Jane Roff has kindly offered to organise another litter pick. It will be on Sunday 23rd October starting at 10.00am. Will anybody who would like help to keep the village tidy please contact Jane on 822434 who will organise groups for each part of the village and make arrangements to issue equipment and high visibility jackets.
DR PETER SHARPE PARISH COUNCIL
PAVENHAM 200 CLUB Recent winners in the 200 Club have been:
August 1st £25 2nd £20 3rd £15 4th £15 5th £10 6th £10
6 125 169 100 179 170
John Schram Joyce Brooks Jackie Bennett Brenda Wesley Terry Horseman Betty Scoley
SATURDAY 26 NOVEMBER
September 1st £25 2nd £20 3rd £15 4th £15 5th £10 6th £10
118 209 179 41 74 154
Pansy Chambers Jo Keech Terry Horsman Carys Butler “hristine Sturgess Eleanor Renwick
A full list of winners since April is displayed on the village hall noticeboard. Many thanks to all our supporters Jane Roff, Terry Horsman, Peter Sharpe (200 Club organisers) ––––––––––––––––––
WHOOPS! WHAT A WELCOME! Sincere apologies to Nathan Butler for getting his name wrong in last month’s Villager when welcoming him and his family to Pavenham
FRIENDS JAZZ NIGHT 7.30pm Pavenham Village Hall Come and enjoy an evening with one of the best Jazz Bands in Europe, the fabulous
Bateman Brothers Jazz Band with their outstanding recreation of the famous Louis Armstrong All Stars.
Tickets £19.50 each, including our traditional 2 course hot supper available from Derek Bliss on 01234 823821 or email: bliss259@btinternet.com Licensed Bar Please book early to avoid disappointment. DEREK BLISS
Sharnbrook Animal & Pet Feeds
We offer a wide range of popular brands, supplements, bedding & accessories to cater for all your animal & pet needs.
Order & Delivery Service Available OPENING HOURS
TUESDAY - SATURDAY 9 am – 6 pm SUNDAY
www.mptchurches.org.uk
9 am – 1 pm
Sharnbrook A&P Feeds
Santoma, Souldrop Road Sharnbrook, MK44 1HH
Bedford
Tel : 01234 781880
E-Mail : s.a.feeds@live.co.uk
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 17
PAVENHAM WOMEN’S BOOK GROUP
Would you
Bleak House (first half)
like to make a difference? We are currently looking for enthusiastic, friendly and caring staff to come and work with us and provide essential non-medical services. If you are dedicated, hard-working and have a genuine desire to work in an environment where you will be helping others, please get in touch. We offer flexible working hours to suit you. Empathy is more important than experience.
We are one of the UK’s leading organisations providing non-medical care to the elderly.
Contact us on
01234 868820
Suite 2, 106A Bedford Road, Wootton, Bedford, MK43 9JB
www.homeinstead.co.uk/Bedford Each Home Instead Senior Care© franchise office is independently owned and operated. Copyright © Home Instead 2014.
COUNTRYSIDE ROOFING AND BUILDING ● ● ● ● ● ●
SLATING TILING FELT ROOFING GUTTERING CLADDING CHIMNEY WORK
● ● ● ● ● ●
BRICKWORK DEMOLITION BLOCK PAVING GROUNDWORK MOSS CLEARANCE FENCING
by Charles Dickens WE thought it was about time that we read a Dickens novel and so we chose ‘Bleak House’. When we received our copies of the book we were rather phased by its length – 740 pages in some copies and 900 in others, with very small print! The decision was therefore made that we would read half for this month’s meeting and the rest of the book for next month’s. We have found in the past that this can be rather difficult to do as discussing a book for two months can lead to having nothing to talk about for the second meeting, but this time it looks as it will be different. Some of us found it daunting and difficult to read, with some deciding not to read it at all. But those of us who are reading it have found the book funny, very descriptive, full of beautiful language and wonderful to read. The story rambles on very much like life both then and now. We follow Esther through her ups and downs, the court case of Jarndyce and Jarndyce (which is never quite explained but
runs throughout the novel), and the lives of several other characters. The novel was written by Dickens from March 1852 to September 1853 and was serialized for publication, two chapters at a time. We wondered if when Dickens wrote it he meandered through the character’s lives with them only having a vague idea of where the narrative would lead him. This has led to a charming book which we are loving reading and are looking forward to finishing. I will be able to say more next month when I have finished (hopefully) the book.
BY VIVIEN HOLT
PAVENHAM VILLAGE HALL
QUALITY VENUE WITH EXCELLENT FACILITIES
Main hall, committee room, servery/bar and well equipped kitchen Hall capacity 120 seated, 180 standing Very reasonable rates Enquiries or for more information: Katie Sharpe on 01234 824 735 or www.pavenhamvillage.co.uk/hall.html
R. BETTS TEL: 01234 822861 or 07912 282384 7 CLOSE ROAD PAVENHAM MK43 7PP 18 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
www.mptchurches.org.uk
Walk and Coffee Group’s anniversary walk IT HAS been one whole year since the start of the Tuesday morning Walk and Coffee group. Inspired by Rachael Rice, whose daily walk with Max (her Welsh Springer) prompted her to extend an invite for anyone to join her. This has resulted in a regular band of walkers meeting up to enjoy the local footpaths each week and for others join us for coffee at The Cock Pub around 10.15am. This truly community group attracts all ages and abilities and has linked up many who might not have otherwise got to know each other. Three things we have noticed over one year of walking: • It rarely rains on a Tuesday morning (we have only been totally drenched once) • There are regular walkers, occasional walkers, or just coffee drinkers (all are welcome) • We are thankful we continue to receive a warm welcome each week for coffee at The Cock To mark the occasion of our first anniversary in September, a special and extended walk was planned to take on the Pavenham, Stevington, Oakley ‘River Loop Walk’. A little further than we usually go, we covered a 6.5-mile (10K) distance and were joined by many of our partners who are not always able to walk with us each week. A big thank you to Sarah, a regular weekly walker, and her husband Steve who hosted a mid-point tea and cake stop at their home in Oakley. With generous helpings of banana and chocolate cake – the perfect treat - set us off on the last 2 miles back to Pavenham. As you can see from our photograph on Stafford Bridge, we were blessed with a beautiful sunny autumnal Sunday afternoon. Please feel free to join us: Walkers meet at 9.15am in The Cock Pub car park, or later for a coffee at The Cock from 10.15am.
BY SUE HENDERSON www.mptchurches.org.uk
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 19
20 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
www.mptchurches.org.uk
Flower and Produce Show – the best one yet!
SOUNDS immodest, but that has been the feedback. So thank you to everyone who entered something, whether baked, stitched, knitted or tenderly home grown, without you there wouldn’t have been a show. Thank you too, for the lovely feedback, it means a lot to the committee and our brilliant band of helpers from the WI, who freely give their time and energy to make the day work for everyone. Val Page was there in the morning to make coffee for the committee and the judges, returning in the afternoon along with Brenda Harding and Carol Wilson, to provide tea and cake to sustain visitors and committee members, through the afternoon. 2016 has been a year of firsts - the first time, in ten years, we’ve had more than 60 people entering the show; the first time the Hosford bowl has been won by an under 16 year old, well done Oscar Bickers those wolves were amazing; the first time we’ve produced the schedule on gorgeous paper, thank you Carol. And the first time we’ve posted the schedule and entry forms on
www.mptchurches.org.uk
the village website - thanks Dave; the first year we have had a dedicated email address for the show, and the first time we’ve advertised and talked about the show on social media. Please do keep your suggestions coming in, we will soon be looking at what to include in next year’s show. Incidentally, it is also the first time we’ve a seen flower arrangement in a chocolate cake - how inspired was that? I wonder if we should have had the cookery judges check that one out too?! Connor Tugulu will surely be next year’s big name on ‘Bake Off’… AND how many of you noticed? The first time we have advertised the date of next year’s show, that’s Saturday 9th September 2017 - please put it in your diaries NOW!! It gives me great pleasure to report our major prize winners for this year; Amanda Beazley, was awarded the Pendlemore vase for her exquisite Flower Arrangement; Val Page won the cup for the best 3 Roses, and Dorothy Blakemore took the Barbara Roff vase for her wonderful Specimen Rose. Philippa Thurgur clearly has the best eating apples in the
village, and wins the special prize for fruit, while the Wildman Cup was awarded to Christine Sturgess for a, quite stellar, basket of vegetables. Sally Tugulu received the Wootton Cup for winning the most points in the Baking and Preserves categories, hmm, maybe Connor has competition for ‘Bake Off’? And, already mentioned, Oscar Bickers was awarded the Hosford bowl for a fabulous, pencil-drawing of wolves. Our overall points winners this year were, Val Page who totalled the most points in the WI sections and took home the WI Trophy, well done Val; Hilary McNicol enjoyed success in Baking, Preserves, Fruit and Vegetables and claimed the Society Challenge Cup for accumulating the most points for any competitor in the show. That’s just Flower arranging and Handicrafts to add next year then Hilary?!? And in 2016, the family winning the most points across the whole show was the Tugulu family, who all bagged prizes, and contributed points towards their trophy. Congratulations the Tugulus. Very well done to all the
individual prize winners across all classes, the judges told me there was some tough competition this year so if you came away winner, congratulations to you all. Finally, a word of thanks to all those who helped us with advertising, who set up the hall on Friday, and those who were able to stay on and help us pack up and clear the hall in record time. You know who you are….the Committee were shattered - we love you all! To reiterate, the next show is on Saturday 9th September 2017. If you have any suggestions for classes, baking ideas, or under 16’s challenges, please let us know either via facebook.com/groups/pavenhamvillage or email the committee on pavenhamshow@gmail.com . We hold our AGM 2016, on November 21st 7.30pm at the Village Hall, at which all or any of you are welcome. We will be looking at the feedback, what went well, what can we do better... and beginning to consider possibilities for next year’s show.
DEBBIE NEWNHAM-DAVIES SECRETARY PHOTOS BY CAROL JENKINS
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 21
PINCHMILL PRE-SCHOOL FELMERSHAM Welcomes children aged 2–5
‘The quality and standards of the care are outstanding.’
OFSTED, July 2010
Opening times: 9.00am – 3.15pm Half-day and full-day sessions available
Registered for government funding for three and four year olds. Excellent purpose-built indoor and outdoor facilities. Warm, friendly environment with highly qualified staff.
For further information contact pre-school leader Jemma Skinner: 01234 781770
Alex Stubbs Flooring Carpets, Vinyls, Laminates, Safety Flooring, Adaptions, Refits, Repairs Supplied and Fitted
01234 240954 07976 260572 22 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
ABLE CARPENTRY
FOR ALL YOUR CARPENTRY & JOINERY
Fitted kitchens, bedrooms, doors Quality work Tel: Nick at competitive Mob: 079360 98644
www.mptchurches.org.uk
THURLEIGH NEWS Edited by Adrienne Larkin — Tel: 771078 email: adriennelarkin_2@hotmail.com
Proposed Thurleigh Waste Site THE Growing Beds planning application to relocate their wood chipping and composting operation from Ravensden to Coplar Farm, Thurleigh is expected to go before the Planning Committee on Monday 10th October 2016 at 6.30 pm. Venue: Committee Room 1, Borough Hall, Cauldwell Street, Bedford MK42 9AP. However, as we go to press, the Planning Officer has said that his report for the Committee is 95% complete and although it is his intention for the meeting to be October “it will go up to the wire” and the meeting at Borough Hall could be November instead. Please go to stopgrowbeds.org to find out the latest. The Environmental Health Officer from Bedford Borough Council has officially objected to the proposal on noise grounds. He said that their noise impact report is inadequate and has given very detailed reasons why he has formed that view. On odour the Environmental Health Officer commissioned a specialist (ARUP) to look at the applicants odour assessment and he said that their odour figures need actual summertime tests, something the applicant could have done at the their Ravensden site for the last two summers but they have failed to do so. The Stop Growing Beds campaign with the help of Thurleigh Parish Council have retained a firm of
Litter pick success
THURLEIGH had their Autumn Litter Pick on Saturday, 10 September. All credit to those who turned up despite the torrential rain! For several Litter Picks now, I’ve heard the same comment about the volume of litter – it’s been going down. This is very pleasing news. I have organised two Picks a year for about five years now and I feel it’s time to bow out. If anyone is interested in taking on the role of Street Continued on page 24 Champion, please let me know.
NICK SLAYMAKER – nickslaymaker1@gmail.com www.mptchurches.org.uk
We warmly invite you to THURLEIGH BAPTIST CHURCH at 3pm on Sunday October 16th 2016 to celebrate over 200 years of Baptist witness in the village. Do join us for tea afterwards.
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 23
Another photograph from the past this time Thurleigh girls netball team. From left to right is :Betty Mason, Peg Short, Mow Elliot, Joyce Cook, Joyce Aspin, and Lily Hill
Proposed Thurleigh Waste Site Continued from page 23 Environmental Planning Law Solicitors who have written to the Council to say that in their view the council cannot determine the application without this information and that to do so would constitute a legal error.
We need as many people as possible to turn up on the night to show that local people are totally opposed to this proposal. Much more information about the whole application can be found at stopgrowbeds.org.
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SANDERSON & SON Electrical Contractor
Mobile: 07843 577456 Wootton (Beds) 24 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
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New pew cushions in St Peter’s, Thurleigh
THESE beautiful new pew cushions (runners) have been made by Phoenix Upholstery to replace the worn out old ones at the back of the church. They further enhance the “bistro” area there and were paid for with money raised by the Friends of St. Peter’s. We would like to gradually replace the other runners in the church a few at a time.
If anyone individual, family or organisation would like to sponsor one the cost is just over £100 each, please contact Wendy Armitage (wendyarmitage2@gmail.com). Please come and see them for yourself, either at one of our services or at The Meeting Place, every other Monday afternoon from 2.30pm – 4.30pm. The next date is 10th October, everyone is welcome.
Monday Afternoon Coffee, Tea and Cakes THE MEETING PLACE St Peter’s Church, Thurleigh 2.30-4.30pm Meeting Place takes place in St Peter’ Church, Thurleigh every other Monday. Set up in December 2014 it has always been our aim to bring together our community and to provide a venue and refreshments for anyone who would like to meet old friends, new friends or simply to ‘get out of the house’! Judging by the numbers now coming along, Meeting Place has become a great success. Some people stay all afternoon whilst others just pop in after school for a piece of cake. Craft activities and a range of toys and play equipment are very popular with the children. Do come along and you can be sure of a very warm welcome in our newly refurbished bistro area. Anyone who would like to become more involved by occasionally helping with teas and coffee, supporting the children’s activities or making a cake please talk to Lindsay, Lulu or Wendy.
OUR NEXT DATES ARE AS FOLLOWS: 10/10/16, 31/10/16, 14/11/16, 28/11/16, 12/12/16, 09/01/17 and 23/01/17 www.mptchurches.org.uk
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 25
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26 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
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THURLEIGH PARISH COUNCIL SEPTEMBER MEETING The Thurleigh Parish Council Meeting was held on the Monday the 12th September 2016 in the Village Hall. This is a summary report. Draft minutes are posted on Thurleigh.net http://www.thurleigh.net/index. php?body=view.php or are available from the clerk thurleighpc@gmail.com The Parish Council meeting was attended by 6 members of the public. All Councillors attended. Standard items of business – were discussed and agreed; including approval of the previous minutes, finance and planning applications. The Clerk’s Report included confirmation that Bedford Borough Council intend to put a wider footpath behind the new bus stop. The Clerk’s report highlighted the ongoing work to keep Thurleigh’s village footpaths clear. Hedges and bushes are growing fast and Thurleigh’s footpaths are narrow. Please can everyone make sure their hedges are cut back to allow wheelchairs to pass. Stop Growing Beds – Stop Growing Beds gave an update on the Growing Beds planning application. More information is available at http://www.stopgrowbeds.org/. The planning application is likely to go to planning committee in October. The Stop Growing Beds Campaign applied for a £500 grant from the Parish Council towards the cost of their environmental solicitor. The Parish Council agreed to the grant as a one off payment.
Neighbourhood Development Plan – Lisa Ryder gave an update on the work of the Neighbourhood Planning Groups progress. The next steps for the Neighbourhood Development Plan NDP is for our planner to analyse all the possible sites. This information will be fed into the Issues and Options Document. This will show the issues that we have raised in our NDP consultations, and the options that we have to solve them. Thurleigh residents will again be consulted on this information. All Neighbourhood Development Plan information is publicly available on the Neighbourhood Development Plan website https://thurleigh-
ndp.com/ Crime – Councillors noted the Thurleigh Village Facebook Page discussion about van theft in Thurleigh and that residents were unhappy that no Police had been out to Thurleigh. This matter can be raised by Councillors through the new network that has been set up by the New Crime Commissioner. EIN (Footpaths) – The EIN Environmental Improvement Network (footpaths) Chair gave a report on recent work. This included the work clearing paths to the reservoir, past the church to Scald End and by the Windmill. The Chair thanked Mr Soaft on behalf of all the Parish Council for the work keeping
footpaths open that are used by the village. War Memorial – The Parish Council has been working to improve the area surrounding the War Memorial. The clerk has submitted pre-application planning advice request to Bedford Borough Council and met with the Tree Officer. The Tree Officer provided useful advice and information on how to open the area around the war memorial and keep on going maintenance costs down. The Parish Council will discuss the funding of the tree work at the next Parish Council meeting. The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 14th November 2016
THURLEIGH CRICKET TEAM had a successful season winning the Winston Jermy Cup in a match against Bedford Pakistanis. Its great that the cricket team are keeping up the winning tradition of cricketers in Thurleigh. We would love a photograph of the winning team for the Villager. ––––––––––––––––– THURLEIGH LADIES CLUB The meetings are held at the Village Hall on the third Tuesday of the month at 10.30am. We welcome new members and visitors. Details from Linda on 771952 or Judith on 772385 ext 3
www.mptchurches.org.uk
Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 27
HISTORICALLY SPEAKING – by David Fowler, Bedford Tour Guide
A
George Witt – Mayor of Bedford 1835
S YOU walk over the Town Bridge, spare a glance for this plaque commemorating George Witt MD FRS, arguably the most colourful of all of Bedford’s Mayors. Born at Swaffam Prior, Cambridgeshire in 1804, he studied at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London and then served for two years with the East India Company, qualifying as a doctor, using his experience from treating cholera on board his ship in Calcutta. He was elected House Surgeon at Bedford General Infirmary in 1828 and four years later was appointed Physician and Secretary, its senior medical post. He organised an Infirmary Museum and established an anatomical reference collection, giving 7.00am clinical lectures to staff & public and became a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1834 for his medical knowledge. He gained a seat on the Common
Council of Bedford Corporation in 1832 and was elected Mayor for one year in 1835, (at the young age of 31!), becoming very popular for his campaign to remove the Toll and residing at the Bedford Girl’s School house named after him. When railway mania spread across the country, he was a director of the Bedford Railway Company which brought the railway from Bletchley to Bedford in 1846. Typhus fever had become a major problem and Dr Witt proposed the construction of a Fever Hospital at the Infirmary, building works started six months later and it opened in 1848. In 1849 Dr Witt resigned for “personal reasons”, after more than twenty years’ service probably due to ill health, emigrating to Sydney with his wife and a servant. A collector throughout his life, there was uproar in the Town that his collection of natural histo-
ry and antiquities might disappear. Petitions were set up warning against the dispersal and loss from the locality of the physician’s personal collection and calling for it to be placed in the hands of trustees with a view to establishing a local museum. It eventually found its way into the Bedford Modern School Museum and thence to The Higgins. In Sydney he set up as a doctor, but with the Gold Rush of 1851, he became a Banker, amassing enough of a fortune to return to London in 1854, to live at Prince’s Terrace (now Ennismore Gardens), Hyde Park, for the rest of his life. Here, using his travelling and medical experience, he set up on the ground floor of his house the first Turkish Baths in London, where “noble Lords, members of the Church, physicians and engineers” could be found week after week! He was also collecting again, but this time “Symbols of the
Early Worship of Mankind” across the centuries and continents showing every representation of the phallus, convinced - as were many of his contemporaries - that these were the icons of all primitive religions. He was in the habit of lecturing about them on Sundays to select audiences (men only of course). When he became worried about his health in 1865, he offered his enormous collection to the British Museum ranging from Greek vases, Egyptian sculpture and Roman terracotta to medieval pottery and beyond. It was accepted and locked it away in a cupboard, the Secretum, to which only scholars had access. George Witt died in 1869. The majority of that cupboard has only recently gone on public display amongst their appropriate sections eg Indian, Egyptian, Italian etc. also a number of pieces were at the centre of a Barbican exhibition “Seduced” in 2008.
The Steam Room at George Witt’s Ennismore Gardens terraced house. 28 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
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WEATHER REPORT BY RICHARD LEDGER
Wet, wet, wet – hot, hot, hot! T HE summer was drier and warmer than normal, at least in this part of the county. The first three days of summer (June 1, 2 and 3) averaged just 12°C, while the last three days were twice as warm, averaging 24°C! In between, 26 days exceeded 24°C, 13 of them in August, ie about 30% of the days, with 59 days over 21°C In June, July and August days averaged 22.2°C (0.3°C above average) and nights 12.5°C with only 2003 at 112.8°C being warmer. There were a lot of warm, humid nights this summer. Over only seven summers have been warmer since 1980 and on ten have been drier. Rainfall this summer totalled 137mm (with 77.5mm of this falling in June) about 20mm below normal. August was the warmest and driest month of the summer, here at least. Days up to 15th averaged 22.7°C and after 15th, 24.7°C, so the average day time high for the whole month was 23.7°C, just over 1°C above normal. There have been just eight warmer Augusts since 1980. Only one day failed to reach 20°C (19th), whilst 24th reached 31°C. Only 2005 with 31.6°C on August 31st has had 31°C so late in the year (a useless piece of quiz information). It was the warmest August since 2004. The month had just 22mm of rain, or 10% of the expected total. 8.6mm fell on 1st and 7mm on 27th, so 79% fell in just two days. Further north in Lancashire it was a very different story. I was there from 17th-26th and it rained Bolton all day on 19th and 20th, set in wet late on 21st with 50mm of rain six hours by early 22nd. There was some flooding. The golf course we played on the 22nd was sodden and no day exceeded 25°C. My time away saw just 9.5mm of rain here, www.mptchurches.org.uk
and heat, my front lawn was brown when I got home! It was a case of two different worlds, with once again the south-east of England being dry and warm, while the north-west was – well, wet, wet, wet! Actually 20th wasn’t wonderful in Birmingham for the T20 Finals at Edgbaston. It was dry enough, just, for all three games to be completed and it was good and exciting to be there and see Northants win. September started pretty well, averaging 22°C by day to 9th, a good 2°C or so above normal and 14°C by night, 3°C above normal. It has also continued to be humid and actually the month and the autumn seem likely to be warmer (or milder) than normal, though rainfall signs are not clear. Rainfall to 9th has totalled just 7mm, so the ground is very dry. However my roses and blackberries are flourishing, as is my suntan. My sun terrace (that’s how it was described when I bought the house in 1978) has been very pleasant in temperatures of 23 or 24°C on 1st, 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th with the sun less powerful than in high summer. Overnight on 6/7th the temperature stayed near 19°C. The rain promised for 10th arrived after another humid night (°C). From 12th onwards we are promised a return to sumer heat by the time you read this it will be history. I doubt if Pose will still be as high as 6th in League One, pessimistic fan writing, but I live in hope. PS: Upper air circulation patterns have change suggesting a mild stormy winter. September 13th – a sensational day. Maximum here in Bedford 32.6°C smashing previous September highest record of 30.1°C in 2006. Previous latest date here for 32°C was August 10, 2003. Probably the latest ever date here for 32°C. More next time.
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Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 29
Soil preparation is the key
OCTOBER IN THE GARDEN – by Milton Ernest Garden Centre
TLTHOUGH In the gardening calendar October is at the end of the gardening year with careful plant planning it can still provide an interesting and colourful landscape.
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October is a good month for adding new plants to the borders so let’s start with soil preparation. It is important to cultivate the soil deeply so dig in large amounts of organic matter like home produced compost, rotted farmyard manure, commercial soil conditioners or peat. This will vastly improve the soil structure and water retention and therefore its availability to our plants. Also incorporate a slow release fertiliser like bonemeal because plants use water more efficiently where nutrient levels are good. Too much fertiliser will cause soft lush growth which collapses in dry weather or is susceptible to frost damage so don’t overdo feeding. Some of the most spectacular colour schemes can be found in the foliage and fruits of deciduous shrubby plants. Cotinus Royal Purple or C. Grace are large spectacular shrubs with purple leaves that turn vibrant red in October while Cotinus Golden Spirit has a similar habit with bright yellow foliage turning gold in autumn. Cercis Siliquastrum (The Judas Tree) is multi stemmed with bright pink flowers in May and June and large heart shaped leaves that turn lovely colours in the autumn. Berberis Red or Orange Rocket are upright plants with yellow flowers in spring and red or orange leaves that turn all the colours of fire in October. Liquidamber Lane Roberts and Parrotia Persica are two more large shrubs or small spreading trees with leaf colours from yellow, orange, red, maroon and purple foliage in October, truly magnificent plants for larger gardens. The Japanese Acers with their delicate finely cut leaves all give outstanding colour palettes in October. They need rich humus soil and frequent watering to grow well and an occasional ericaceous feed in the summer months. Virginia Creepers are also one of the most colourful climbing plants adorning house walls with glowing autumn colours. Other shrubby plants are useful for their colourful fruits. Euonymus Europeous Red Cascade has amazing shocking pink and orange fruits which clash brilliantly with the
bright red leaves and Cotoneaster Franchettii, Cornubia and Lacteus are all large evergreen shrubs, excellent as screening plants, which are covered in bright red berries at this time of year. The birds love these so excellent plants to encourage wild life to the garden. Pyracantha Sapphyr Red and Sapphyr Yellow have red and yellow berries accordingly and also provide food and shelter for birds in winter. Skimmias are small evergreens and varieties like Formannii and Reeversiana if pollinated will have pillar box red berries that last all winter. Holly berries are another good source of bird food. Varieties like Ilex Pyramidalis J C Van Tol are evergreen with glossy green foliage and brilliant red berries from October onwards. Rosa Rugosa has another interesting fruit called heps which are flagon shaped and bright orange in colour. Trees also have brightly coloured fruits in autumn. Sorbus Aucuparia or Mountain Ash, have bunches of red currant glistening fruit and depending on variety can be white, pink or bright red in colour. Malus or Crab Apples have small apple fruits on stalks that look like cherries and again depending on variety vary in colour from yellow,
30 — OCTOBER 2016 ■ Villager
red and purple. Some perennials and shrubs can also be found in flower this month. Viburnum Bodnantense Dawn actually starts to flower as the coloured foliage falls this month. Abelia Edward Gaucher is a small semi evergreen shrub which starts flowering in late summer and continues well into November with delightful scented deep pink flowers. Cerostigma Willmottianum is also a small shrub with gentian blue flowers that last until the first winter frost. Aster frikarttii Monch and Rudolf Goethe are perennials with blue and violet daisy flowers that look great when planted next to Aster Lynden Bell with its clusters of pale pink flowers. Penstemons are still flowering well into this month. P. Hidecote Pink has rose pink florets on upright stems while P.Garnet is wine red. Rudbeckii Goldsturm another daisy is bright cheery yellow with golden brown centres, Echinacea Purpurea is red pink and Helenium is burnt orange with dark brown centres. Three good upright autumn flowering perennials are Red Hot Poker Knipofia Tawny King with golden yellow torches, Aconitum Carmichaelii with sapphire blue delphinium like spikes and the lavender spikes of Verbena Bodnaniensis.
Finally we can add more colour to the garden by planting tubs. The summer bedding plants are now exhausted and looking tatty so empty the tubs and replace with fresh compost but do not add any water retaining granules or slow release fertilizer in winter tubs. Cyclamen, Panolas, Pansies and Violas will all provide good colour but the tubs will be more interesting throughout the winter if some other evergreen plants are used. Here are some suggestions. Solanum Thurino, the Christmas Cherry plant with bright orange berries, Ornamental Brassicas with bright pink and silver variegated leaves, Heucheras which vary in leaf colour from lime green, orange green and silver variegated, red and maroon foliage, Coloured leaf scented Thymes and brightly variegated Lamiums. FORTHCOMING EVENTS CAR BOOT SALE SUNDAY 16th OCTOBER £5 PER CAR CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAYRE SATURDAY 26th & SUNDAY 27th NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENING WEDNESDAY 30th NOVEMBER
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Alice Gainsford
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Villager ■ OCTOBER 2016 — 31