NOVEMBER 2019
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Singer makes her dream come true
INSIDE: OUT AND ABOUT n SPORT n AROUND YOUR CLUBS n LOCAL NEWS AND PHOTOGRAPHS
LeAH GreenHILL a 23-yearold nursery nurse from Kempston, held a secret dream to be a singer. Having never sung in public or even in front of her family Leah was overheard singing one day, when she thought no one could hear her, by music producer Greg stephenson. From that one chance meeting in April Leah was invited onto the Artist Development program at perry road studios in Buckden. During a busy summer that followed Leah began working with the studio and record label team at perry road studios covering a wide range of skills including; Vocals, songwriting, performance, stagecraft and gui-
tar tuition. Along with a really fun makeup and photoshoot day for the single cover artwork. With a fresh unique voice that has a beautiful tone, and a versatility that ranges from edginess, to catchy rock/pop hooks she is poised to bust onto the music scene, leaving the bedroom singer behind. through the program Leah’s debut single ‘I Don’t Know Why’ was released in August this year – across itunes, spotify, Amazon and all major download platforms, and with the continuing support of the label program and Leah’s talent she is certainly on the road to her dream of a career within the music industry.
“I Don’t Know Why” – A Guitar driven alternative pop/rock, crafted with memorable hooks and infectious rhythm, centred around Leah’s fresh vocals delivering energetic melody driven lyrics relaying a powerful message of self-belief. Local Fm and DAB radio stations have been supportive with airplay, along with internet radio, with positive presenter comments like; “Having a feel of the Cranberries, and Alanis morissette” .
Henry Vann throws his hat in the ring Henry VAnn, a local Councillor, campaigner and teacher, is standing for the Liberal Democrats in Bedford and Kempston in the imminent General election. Henry grew up in Bedford and has been a local Councillor since 2011. He is a teacher and lives in Goldington road, Bedford. As education portfolio holder on mayor Dave’s cabinet he oversaw a multi-million pound investment in local schools and he has been campaigning to save Bedford Hospital for more than ten years; his track record shows it, and in 2017 he uncovered secret plans to downgrade Bedford Hospital. He is now portfolio Holder for town Centres and planning. Henry said: “In may, the Lib Dems became the largest group on Bedford Borough Council, with the
Conservatives no longer having any Councillors in Bedford and Kempston constituency. “I grew up in Bedford and know that both Bedford and Kempston are amazing towns, thriving with rich history, culture, communities and industry. I will fight tooth and nail for my home town to get a fair deal from the Government. “on the most urgent question of the day the Liberal Democrats have a clear position: we are the party of remain. the Government is in disarray and the Labour party still doesn’t know what it wanys. “Brexit will be bad for the people of Bedford and Kempston and the Lib Dems will be offering the people of Bedford and Kempston a sensible, principled option at the upcoming General election.”
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Helping to save lives Kempston Community Association proudly unveiled their most recent purchase on saturday, August 24, a defibrillator at the Addison Centre. With thousands of people losing their lives each year through sudden cardiac arrest, the association wanted to help local residents. the major factor limiting the number of people who survive a sudden cardiac arrest is to provide defibrillation within the critical time. A defibrillator is at its most effective when administered within the first minute of a victim collapsing, with the likelihood of survival rate increasing to 90%, having a defibrillator close by really makes all the difference.
A fundraising campaign was launched by Friends of the Addison, with the help of Bedford Lions Club, the Arts society, individual donations, regular raffles and dances they managed to buy the defibrillator.
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NOVEMBER 2019
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In Focus with
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by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford
WATER REFILL STATION AT THE READY
As part of our ongoing commitment to the environment I was pleased to announce recently, along with Cory Walker of refill Bedford, that Bedford Borough Council has signed up as a refill station. In doing so we join a network of local places where people can fill their reusable water bottle for free. ‘refill’ is a nationwide campaign with thousands of local businesses, community venues, transport hubs and public fountains where people can refill for free. you can find nearby refill stations by using the ‘refill’ App or looking out for the sticker displayed at the venues. the Council has always been proactive about tackling climate change. In 2010 we set an ambitious target of reducing our carbon emissions by 40%, and have gone far beyond that. this has involved a wide range of measures including a thorough programme of invest-to-save measures across the council’s property estate featuring solar panels, LeD and motion-sensor lighting and much more. As a result, carbon emissions from council buildings have fallen by a massive 62%. In addition, as a Council we are also working towards becoming single-use plastic free by the end of 2020. Across our society there is an obscene amount of unnecessary plastic waste, yet we know about the harm plastic waste does to wildlife and to our environment. We’re all using more alternatives to single-use plastics in our everyday lives, and the council will be too, across all of its functions. Finally, in more encouraging environmental news, I am pleased to report that my executive’s decision to declare a climate emergency was backed by the latest Full Council meeting. our new all-party Climate Change Committee is now established, and will be overseeing our efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. this is critical, because we all need to be pulling in the same direction on this crucial issue.
The Bishop of Bedford
MP for Bedford and Kempston
A ‘HOLDING’ HAND
LET THE PEOPLE HAVE THE FINAL SAY ON THIS
over the years I have taken many funerals. All have been tinged with sadness and loss, but many have also been times of thanksgiving and celebration of a life well lived. the funeral for my father earlier this year was just such an occasion that helped us as we mourned. A few of the funerals have been much harder. A young son dying in a house fire – trapped in an upstairs room and his mother helpless downstairs. A teenager killed in a collision with his brother driving the car. An older man dying after an assault in the street. All of them tragic with no easy words of comfort. Among the hardest, however, have been the occasional person who took their own life. suicide – for so long condemned by both society and the church – that ultimate expression of pain and despair that leads a person to feel that they just cannot go on. no-longer do we judge those who take their own life, but rather we are filled with compassion for someone who could see no other way out. It is not, however, just the deep sadness of the person’s death that makes suicide so hard. It is the inevitable impact on those who are left behind. the combination of guilt that one didn’t do more to reach out to support the person (that is to assume that the darkness was evident), along with the devastation that one had no chance to say goodbye affects all who knew the deceased. It is often hard to bear. the experience of the Inquest adds to the confusion and pain. many need a supportive and loving environment to help them through. thankfully in Bedfordshire such a resource exists. It is the Bedfordshire suicide Bereavement service that is part of CHUms that I visited recently at their Wrest park offices. Describing their work as a ‘holding’ hand at a time when things feel really tough they are a vital support to many, especially at a time when there has been a rise in the suicide rate in the county. (www.justgiving.com/campaign/bsbsappeal) this month let us give thanks for, and hold in our prayers, both those for whom life is so desperate that they feel that suicide is the only way forward; and those at CHUms who offer that ‘holding’ hand to those who are left behind.
With just two weeks to go before we leave the eU and no time to waste to secure a deal, it was a bizarre experience to witness the pomp and opulence of a state opening of parliament. It was a shameful sight to see our 93-year-old Queen being used by the prime minister to deliver a party-political broadcast for the Conservative party. the government has had three and a half years to get Brexit done and they’ve failed. they made a pledge to the country that we’d leave in a “smooth and orderly” way and the prime minister promised we would have our “cake and eat it” on the way to post-Brexit “sunlit uplands.” the only legitimate way to sort Brexit now that we know none of this is true, is to let the people have a final say. the Government’s funding plans for public services are pathetic and go nowhere near reversing the devastating cuts that the Conservatives have introduced since 2010. It is welcome news that Bedfordshire police is getting 54 additional officers, but 440 are needed. the prime minister talks about more funding for the nHs, but we now know – it’s for a handful of hospitals. so far, Bedford has been offered nothing as a result of the merger and severe staff shortages are crippling our nHs. since 2010 there are more workers, more children, more pensioners in poverty. there are more families without a home of their own and more people sleeping rough on our streets. Fewer people can afford to own their own home, wages are still lower than a decade ago, a million work in the insecure gig economy and foodbanks have become the norm. only a Government as weak as Boris Johnson’s could have served up such a weak propaganda exercise under the guise of legislative proposals which do nothing to get the country out of the mess this Government has got it into.
KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY The annual service of Remembrance will be held at 2.30pm, Sunday, November 10, in Kempston East Methodist Church, Bedford Road. After the service the congregation will process to the war memorial at St John’s Street, where there will be a short service and the laying of wreaths.
MEETINGS IN NOVEMBER/DECEMBER
November 12th 6.30pm PLANNING 7.30pm KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL December 10th 6.30pm PLANNING 7.30pm KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL December 12th 7.30pm KEMPSTON BURIALS JOINT COMMITTEE
In the Council Chamber, 104 Bedford Road, Kempston
SENIOR CITIZENS The annual senior citizens gathering will be 11 December between 1-3pm in the Centenary Hall. Please call the office to book your place
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS The Christmas lights switch on will be on December 3 at 6.30pm, on Saxon square.
ALL IN ORDER! The externally audited accounts of Kempston Town Council were received and accepted at the last Council meeting. Councillors were very pleased to note that everything is in excellent order.
BE SAFE Kempston’s Community Safety Forum has now merged with the police priority setting meeting. The current agreed priority for Kempston is ‘cycling safety’. That means safety for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists. Kempston met with the local police recently to discuss the way forward. Obviously now that the darker days are upon us, cyclists need to ‘see and be seen’. Look out for more details from the Police.
A GOOD TIME HAD BY ALL Kempston Mayor, Carl Meader held a successful and enjoyable reception in the Centenary Hall recently. It was attended by invited guests representing many local groups and organisations plus Mayors from other local towns as well as Kempston councillors. There was a generous spread of refreshments. ‘Easy listening’ music was played by Kempston
Town councillor Ross Purves, his wife and a friend. It was much appreciated by those present. The event was not organised as a fundraiser but an occasion for people to meet and socialise. However very many thanks to those who donated raffle prizes and the evening overall raised over £550 for the Mayor’s charity – Road Victims Trust.
Cllr Carl Meader with Road Victim’s Trust Chief Executive Mark Turner.
104 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8BG Tel: 01234 851005 www.kempstontowncouncil.com Email: kempstoncouncil@btconnect.com Office hours: 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday
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Ridgeway School sensory play area opened
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stAFF and customers at Kempston post office organised their annual charity event on monday, september 23, and raised £1729.25 for macmillan Cancer support. Homemade cakes and samosas were served to raise money for the excellent work being done in supporting people with cancer. mayor of Bedford Dave Hodgson said: “It was great to chat with everyone at Kempston post office this morning over coffee and cake for this great cause this morning.” mayor of Kempston Cllr. Carl meader said: “It is really good to see businesses and people showing generosity to help others. mohd. yasin mp also attended in the afternoon and brought friends to support the event. rani parmar, the postmistress said: “this would not have been possible without the help of many customers and friends who have being baking all weekend and serving during the day. so far we have raised over £7000 and we will keep going for this worthy cause as long as we can.”
On Friday, October 18, Oliver Richbell Chairman of the Bedfordshire branch of the Wooden Spoon charity opened a sensory play area at Ridgeway School. The charity has raised £15,000 to provide a fabulous all weather play facility for the
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Bunyan preview packed NOVEMBER 2019
BeDForD people showed up en mass to see the new animated version of “A pilgrim’s progress” on screen in the home town of author John Bunyan. the 17th century book has been a best seller for centuries, and interest in it brings in tourists to the town from around the world. A nationwide screening of the new film was scheduled to take place on Friday october 25th at 40 cinemas around the UK. But in conjunction with film distributor stephen Briggs, a small group of sponsors paid for a special early screening on monday october 21st at Cineworld Aspects. “We has only a week’s notice so some people were hurriedly invited and we sent out a messages to get other people to come along, and as result we had almost a full house,” explained stephen, the special preview on monday included a personally filmed video message from voice actor John rhys-Davies, of the Lord of the rings fame.
Greeting guests at the cinema was local character “John Bunyan and his wife” – showing how the book has moved from parchment in the 1680s to the movie
screen today. For further information as to how you can see the film log on to www.pilgrimsprogressmovie.co.uk
Punjab Lions roaring pLAyInG in the in the Bedford & District sunday Football League, tavistock sound & Vision third Division, the punjab Lions have got off to a roaring start this season. they recently put nine goals past eynesbury rovers sFC to win 9-0.
their stats after five matchers are, five wins, 55 goals for and five against. star striker, Ginns Baines has netted 20 goals. Lions have beaten, AFC partizan 4-1, Houghton Conquest 14-3, priory park eagles 3-1, Bedford Athletic 25-0, eynesbury rovers sFC 9-0.
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One Show’s Rickshaw Challenge reaches Bedford
THE One Show will be stopping off in Bedford as the team travels across the UK for this year’s Rickshaw Challenge for Children in Need. A team of six young people, all of whom have been supported by BBC Children in Need-funded projects, will be joined by The One Show’s Matt Baker on the eight-day challenge as they take on a 400 mile route, starting in Holyhead in Anglesey, Wales on Friday, November 8. Team Rickshaw will cycle into Bedford’s Harpur Square on Thursday, November 14, with
the arrival live on The One Show from 7pm. Bedford is the final stop before the team continues on to Estree studios for Children in Need’s live show on the Friday. Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford Borough said: “It’s really exciting that Bedford is part of this year’s annual Rickshaw Challenge. The event raises a huge amount of money for Children in Need, and I’m sure local residents will come out in large numbers to cheer on Matt and the team.”
Love Bedford acknowledges Bunyan Boats’ huge contribution
GrAHAm mABBUtt was presented with the inaugural Love Bedford Visitor’s Award in recognition of the hugely successful John Bunyan Community Boat project. At the BedfordBID breakfast last month, mayor Dave Hodgson spoke of the outstanding contribution and of the organisation Graham has been responsible for which has now taken over 38,000 people on trips on the river Great ouse. mayor Dave Hodgson said: “the river belongs to everyone, and the John Bunyan Boat has enabled thousands of people to enjoy getting out onto the water. that’s thanks in large part to the tireless efforts of Graham mabbutt.
Graham has worked incredibly hard firstly to make this brilliant idea a reality, and then to make it a successful attraction for Bedford. He richly deserves this recognition as the first recipient of the Love Bedford Visitor’s Award.” the project has also seen the recruitment of dozens of brilliant volunteers and has earned a reputation as an excellent leisure experience for people of all ages. Graham and team deservedly won a pride in Bedford Award back in 2013, since when the project has gone from strength to strength.
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“messing about on the river has proved immensely popular with visitors to Bedford and local residents alike” said Christina rowe, Director of BedfordBID. “this project has also raised the profile of the area, provided numerous opportunities for businesses and made a big splash for tourism in Bedford. We were delighted to be part of the initial funding support for this project and on-going promotion.”
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Delay in buying temporary housing hits taxpayers? A TWENTY month delay in purchasing temporary accommodation units for homeless individuals and families has cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands of pounds due to ‘posturing’ from Mayor Dave Hodgson, according to Conservative Cllr Stephen Moon. In February 2018, Cllr Moon proposed at Bedford Borough Council’s annual budget meeting that the authority allocate £2m in the first instance for an ‘invest to save’ project to purchase and provide its own temporary accommodation for those in need of urgent housing. This would have reduced the reliance on units owned by private landlords, saving the Council up to £200k a year. Since then demand for temporary accommodation has continued to rise, resulting in a £500k increase in Council spending in 2019/20. After voting down Cllr Moon’s proposal, the Liberal Democrat and Labour administration will finally commit £10m to buy temporary accommodation units over the next three years, including £3m in 2019/20. In response, Cllr Moon said: “I am of course pleased with
Mayor Hodgson’s u-turn on our proposal for the Council to purchase temporary accommodation units. The substantial £10m sum now allocated to the project confirms, as I originally stated, that there will be significant savings further down the line. “Sadly, his political games have led him, not for the first time, to reject proposals we make only later to adopt them and claim them as his own. This time the delay caused by his posturing has wasted hundreds of thousands of pounds for taxpayers in payments to private landlords and prevented the Council from sourcing and providing suitable temporary housing for individuals and families. It is a complete shambles and a failure of leadership; he should respond to local needs and not play party political games.” Bedford Borough Council Executive Member for Finance Cllr Michael Headley, responded: “No opportunities have been missed to save money. We were already considering this before the Conservatives raised it and have continued to do so,
REBUTTAL
but up until more recently there were simply no viable opportunities. We made it crystal clear at the time and since that this was being actively pursued.” “Funding has been available for this, so it is wrong to claim this has been a factor rather than the lack of suitable properties to purchase. “This is a huge challenge right across the country, and we are committed to ensuring we can support people when they are in such a time of need, facing homelessness.” Sam Price, Homeless Inter-Agency Officer, commenting on the announcement: “Demand on Bedford Borough Council for temporary accommodation has increased by 63% since the introduction of the Homelessness Reduction Act last year. Whilst I welcome the news of this investment I would much rather it was providing permanent accommodation for families in our Borough. There is a huge lack of social housing in this country, and market rents in the private sector are out of reach for many working families. Without more investment in building social housing, homelessness will continue to rise.
‘Exciting opportunity to help Bedford town centre to thrive’ BeDForD Borough Council’s Conservative Group has unveiled a 36 point plan to make Bedford a premier destination for ‘living, working and leisure.’ positive changes including a children’s play area, pocket parks and a community square for crafts and food stalls would help ‘rein-
vent’ the town centre and meet the challenge posed by out of town and online retailing. Bedford’s footfall fell by 4.82% in 2018 in comparison with the previous year and the first five months of 2019 saw a continuation of this trend. the Conservative Group’s plan responds to the Borough Council’s ‘Future of Bedford town Centre’ consultation. It sets out proposals for: n A proactive approach from the Council to purchase units for
mixed use spaces, such as a start-up hub for new businesses; n Harpur square and riverside north to become focal points for a variety of events including music and dance; n public art trails, treasure hunts and activities for families; n Urgent working with the midland road community to improve the area’s living environment, and; n promoting housing opportunities in the urban area. Cllr phillippa martin-moranBryant, Conservative town Centre spokesperson (pictured), said: “the town centre must be a community space for living, working and leisure. If we can give people lots of reasons to visit then we will be able to support our fantastic independent shops and ensure Bedford is attractive to national retailers. “ “there is a need to look at the overall feel of the town centre and ensure it offers something for everyone. positive changes such as a play area, treasure hunts and heritage trails for children would make the town centre much more welcoming to families. this is an exciting opportunity for Bedford town centre to thrive.”
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Bedford BID renewed Progress under way
A ballot of local businesses in Bedford town centre has backed the renewal of the Bedford Business Improvement District (BID) for a further five years. Business ratepayers in Bedford with a business of the required rateable value to be eligible to vote were issued with a postal ballot to say whether or not they sup-
ported the renewal of the BID. the outcome of the ballot saw a majority of the Business ratepayers in the proposed BID area who voted in the ballot, both by aggregate rateable value and number voting, support the proposal. the full result was declared on Friday 18th october 2019.
Citizens Advice Bedford launches a volunteer portal tHIs year, Citizens Advice celebrates 80 years of providing free, confidential advice to people in
difficulty. since its inception, the organisation has relied on the help of volunteers to support in the delivery of its services; and over the years, CAB has been able to continuously expand their offerings thanks to those individuals who freely give up their time to help others in need. In the year 2018-2019, Citizens Advice Bedford managed debt worth £5.6m, generated benefit income for clients worth £2.7m and contributed over £1.7m savings to the government through the reduction in health service demand, local authority homeless services and out-ofwork benefits. During this time, the organisation has also undergone many changes and developments to ensure that we will continue striving towards increasing the number of clients that we are able to assist within Bedford Borough. As part of a re-structuring, a digital space has been created, where people can learn more about volunteering at Citizens Advice Bedford; a volunteer portal, containing detailed explanations of the various roles that we offer, a video showcasing our existing volunteer experiences, an online application form and lots of other information to answer any questions that you may have about what it means to volunteer for CAB. If you’re interested in finding out more about volunteering, visit: www.cabvolunteering.co.uk Follow us on twitter: @BedfordCA
Drug factory dismantled
FoLLoWInG information from the public, police in north Beds released a report on saturday, october 5, 2019, of a successful raid on a cannabis factory in Kempston.
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to brand Bedford as Bunyan’s home
As pArt of their initiative to ‘brand’ Bedford to an international audience, Bunyan round table (Brt) aims to have all roads into Bedford signed with the message; ‘the Home of John Bunyan and the pilgrim’s progress’. the group’s mission is to make Bedford, and the surrounding County, synonymous with author John Bunyan, whose work is revered around the world and which attracts visitors from the UsA, europe and even Asia to the town. elstow parish Council started that process, unveiling the first “Bunyan’s Home” sign on progress Way, elstow – one of the entrance roads to the village where Bunyan lived. similar signs will soon be erected on elstow other entrance roads and it is hoped that Bedford Borough will then follow suit. the sign’s atmospheric and colourful illustration was created by Bedford artist, and Brt member, Alasdair Bright, who was specially commissioned by elstow parish Council. John Bunyan was the world famous 17th century author of
the pilgrim’s progress. His book was, for over 350 years the second-best selling book in the world, second only to the bible. since its first publication, it has never been been out of print and has been translated into at least 200 languages. John wrote his book whilst in prison, having been arrested for preaching ‘without a licence’. He was part of the non-conformist movement, seeking for freedom of worship and, as a result wrote the pilgrim’s whilst in Bedford gaol. He served two terms of imprisonment – one of 12 years, one of six months, merely because he refused to stop preaching wherever and whenever he was asked to do so. the pilgrim’s progress contains a spiritual message that is as relevant today as when Bunyan wrote it. there is a “theme park” to John Bunyan in south Korea. the pilgrim’s progress had been reintroduced into local schools with special study packs prepared by author ruth Broomhall. For more information: bunyansbedford.weebly.com/ news/bunyansbedford
DID YOU KNOW?
KEMPSTON RURAL PARISH COUNCIL
the parish Council is responsible for a number of local services, including: roadside seats, Bus shelters, Litter bins, Dog waste bins, Wood end play space, the closed church yard at Church end. In addition, the parish Council liaises with the Borough Council on matters that are their responsibility such roads and footways. It also considers and responds to local planning proposals and other matters that might affect the lives and well-being of residents. the parish Council meets on the third thursday of the month (except August and December), at 7.30pm in All saints Church Hall. there is always 15 minutes set aside for public questions. CONTACT DETAILS:
The Parish Clerk, Mrs Sue Bottoms 17 Willow Springs, Cranfield, Bedford MK43 0DS 01234 751300 sue.x999@btinternet.com http://kempstonrural.bedsparishes.gov.uk
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Freeman of the City of London DUrInG his career, Kempston resident, Lionel stewart was a metropolitan police officer for a number of years and spent many long hours policing the bridges in London. He later transferred to Bedfordshire police and is currently the Chair of the Bedfordshire branch of the national Association of retired police officers. During his time in Bedfordshire, he has been a school governor for thirty years and has been active in many charitable groups in the county. Lionel was made a Freeman of the City of London at a ceremony on 17 April 2013 at the historic Guildhall. this day was especially memorable as it was the same day as margaret thatcher’s funeral and security in the area was unbelievable. the Guildhall dates back to 1666 and is home to the City of London Corporation. Freedom of the City of London is one of the oldest surviving traditional ceremonies still in existence and is thought to date back to 1237. In medieval times the term ‘freeman’ meant someone who was not the property of a feudal lord but someone who
enjoyed privileges, such as the right to earn money and own land. today most of the practical reasons for obtaining the Freedom of the City have disappeared, but it remains a unique part of London’s history. one of the most well-known aspects of being a Freeman of the City of London is the right to drive sheep across London Bridge. And on sunday 29 september 2019 Lionel returned to London Bridge to exercise that right. Lionel said ‘It was an amazing experience and I felt very privileged to be able to drive the sheep across the bridge. It’s not something you do every day! I was very honoured to take part in this historic tradition and share the day with family and friends.
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NOVEMBER 2019
FOR ALL ENQUIRIES TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Hard working volunteers A ‘thank you’ evening was held on Monday, September 30, at St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger, where a cheque was presented for £20,520 raised from their Country Fayre and Festival held in August. The fund raising continues – on the October 11, a Curry and Quiz night was held which raised just over £3,500. Pictured: Tori Ablard, Head of fundraising and Fiona Benson, driving force behind fundraisers!
Who is this?
BeDForDsHIre police would like to speak to the rider of the moped pictured, as we believe he might have information about a collision in Chantry Avenue, Kempston. At approximately 11.20am on saturday, october 5, a vehicle was damaged in a collision. no one was injured in the incident. Anyone who recognises the man pictured is asked to contact us on 101 or through our online reporting centre, quoting incident number 212 of 5 october.
Shoplifter issued with criminal behaviour order
proLIFIC shoplifter ryan Bowen, 30, from Bedford has been issued with a Criminal Behaviour order, with conditions for a period of five years, following his appearance at Luton magistrates on tuesday, october 15, 2019. the conditions prohibit him from entering Debenhams in the High street and tK maxx in Horne Lane. this order comes as a result of a partnership approach to problem solving. Bedfordshire police worked closely with Bedford businesses and Bedford BID to prepare the application and submit it to the court.
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£900 in fines issued
LAst month Bedford Borough Council has issued three £300 fines to individuals after their household and garden waste was fly-tipped, having been given to rogue traders for disposal. Investigations were also carried out to identify the people who committed the fly-tipping but unfortunately the residents didn’t have any further details of the individuals who took their waste. earlier this year the Council introduced a new Fixed penalty notice. this gave it the power to issue a £300 fine to people who are responsible for fly-tipping because they allowed an unauthorised person to get rid of their household waste.
County Lines arrests
A LArGe quantity of Class A drugs have been recovered after a police raid targeting county lines drug dealing. A man in his 30s and a woman in her 20s were arrested following the operation at two addresses in Beckett street, Bedford on tuesday, october 9. two large bags of what officers suspected to be cocaine were recovered, alongside a fencing. Another man at one of the addresses was offered safeguarding support by officers. Ds Graham Williams said: “We know that county lines dealers are operating in Bedford and looking to exploit vulnerable people as part of their criminal network.”
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NOVEMBER 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
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10 — KEMPSTON CALLING
NOVEMBER 2019
FOR ALL ENQUIRIES TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Love Our Colleges Week
tHe Bedford College Group helped to fly the flag for Love our Colleges week with a variety of events. Ceo and principal Ian pryce CBe, famous for his songs for special occasions, produced the “official” Association of Colleges tune to the Queen song Can Anybody Find me somebody to Love replacing ‘somebody’ with ‘A College’. the tune was widely shared on social media and can be seen at https://youtu.be/HukG47m4r0m meanwhile back at the Bedford riverside campus, the official opening of the Virtual reality suite, based within the Advanced engineering Centre, was a cause for celebration. Costing more than £200,000 enabled by a generous donation by the Connolly Foundation, the suite gives students access to state of the art technology for use across a range of courses including engineering, construction, computing and 3D design. the final day of Love our Colleges week was
Cherry Trees Nursery School has been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted FoLLoWInG a two day inspection in July 2019 Cherry trees was upgraded from ‘Good’, in november 2018, to ‘outstanding’. Cherry trees received an ‘outstanding’ rating in all five areas of the latest inspection, including how the needs of children are met, contribution of the early years provision to the well-being of children and the effectiveness of leadership and management. the report said: “Children’s care and welfare are of the highest priority in the school. relationships between adults and children are excellent and are one of the many strengths in the school. Key workers at Cherry trees are pivotal to this. As a result, children thrive and flourish in the safe, secure and stimulating environment.” executive Head teacher Isabel Davis said “I am
so proud that the high quality teaching and learning that my staff offer along with the high level of social and emotional support that they give the children has been recognised by ofsted. We believe that all children deserve the best start to their educational journey and at Bedford nursery schools we strive to offer this.” Cllr James Valentine, portfolio Holder for education and Children’s services said; “Congratulations to all the staff at Cherry trees. this is a fantastic outcome and is a great endorsement of all the hard work staff put in helping to ensure children are getting the best possible start in life.” Cherry trees nursery school, based in Hawkins road, is part of Bedford nursery schools federation along with peter pan nursery school, and offers education and childcare for children aged 2-5 years.
celebrated in Beds and northants served by the Bedford College Group. Kettering mp, philip Hollobone, met with Ian pryce and Vice principal Georgina Ager, who oversees the northamptonshire campuses, to discuss the developments at tresham College, before he went on to visit students from performing Arts, media and Applied sciences in their classrooms. Finally at the shuttleworth College campus Vice principal em Lowe brushed up on her heavy equipment training to operate a tractor. em was formerly in the armed forces, has HGV licences and as a civilian drove tankers before turning to teaching. Handling a tractor was a change from the desk work. the Bedford College Group offers education and training in Bedfordshire and northamptonshire. Full details on bedford.ac.uk and tresham.ac.uk
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NOVEMBER 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
Jemz wins best World Cuisine award BeDForD take-away, Jemz Caribbean, scooped the coveted award at the recent ceremony for the Food Awards england 2019. they were named the Best World Cuisine for the southern region. Jemz Caribbean is run by husband and wife duo, sandra and patrick Harris who opened up shop on Ampthill road back in 2015. sandra is also the Chef, whose mouth-watering cuisine has been popular within the local community for many years. the power duo applies their knowledge and
Somebody knows this man?
poLICe officers are investigating an attempted break-in in Box end, Kempston on september 10, 2019, and are issuing a photo of a man they would like to speak to. At approximately 11.30am, two offenders were disturbed while they attempted to break into a house. they then gained entry to the victim’s vehicle and left the scene in it, causing damage to the car. the car has since been recovered. Detective Constable Jason Wheeler, from the force’s operation maze team, who is investigating this incident, said: “I am keen to speak to the man pictured as I believe he has key information about this incident.” Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact DC Wheeler on 101 or visit the online reporting centre, quoting reference 40/52286/19.
Shires Funeral Directors 97 High Street Kempston Bedford MK42 7BS 01234 840 005 Also at Baldock, Bedford, Dunstable, Letchworth Luton & Sandy
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understanding of their business to deliver first class food and dining experience to their customers. speaking about their award, sandra and patrick said: “to be nominated for such a prestigious award was a great achievement for us in itself but to actually win is just incredible. “We are still in shock and are just so happy. to also know that we were nominated by the public/our customers is wonderful as we are committed to delivering a first class customer experience so this is testament to that.
“We do have amazing and incredibly loyal customers who we would personally like to thank for their support over the years as without them this award wouldn’t have been achievable.” the Good Food Awards are hosted by Creative oceanic to celebrate the best in the food industry; from the excellent restaurants, chefs and servers, to the specialists and suppliers. the black-tie ceremony took place on monday october 14th at the mercure manchester piccadilly Hotel.
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FOR ALL ENQUIRIES TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
NOVEMBER 2019
Garden notes
applied this month, ideally when it is going to rain in the next day or so. Autumn feed has very little nitrogen so it will not cause lush growth but it promotes strong root growth and helps the grass to crowd out the weeds. on the vegetable plot there is lots going on. Clearing the bean straws from the runner beans and preparing the bed for next years crop. the potatoes ought to be lifted by now to stop the slugs and other nasties getting in and setting up home in them. most of the summer crops are just about finished so the digging can begin I sometimes think a freshly dug plot looks as good as a planted one. I had potatoes in two areas on the allotment this year. on one area I dug manure into the bed before planting the potatoes and in the other area I put the manure on as a mulch after the potatoes were planted. the area which was mulch produced a much bigger and better crop the dug in area, so perhaps this is the way to go if hotter drier summers are to be a regular thing. next year I am going to grow fewer tomatoes. this year they were so successful that they almost became as big a problem as courgettes. so much so I almost ran out of things to do with them, but I havenít changed colour yet.
by Richard Callaghan
LAst montH I had intended to suggest that it was time to set Autumn onions , garlic, broad beans and possibly some over wintering peas. However, I managed to go on holiday and forgot to write a single word. It must be an age thing! the good news is that I had a good holiday and there is still time to plant those things while the conditions permit. this month there is lots of clearing up to do, not least the leaves which keep coming down almost as fast as you can collect them. there is also cutting out all the finished flower stems of the plants in the herbaceous border to do. If these herbaceous plants have grown too big and unruly, now is a good time to lift and divide them and replant the bits that you want to keep. the bits farthest from the centre of the clump are the best part to keep as they are the youngest and freshest and probably the most vigorous. When the weather permits I like to keep taking the top off the grass to stop it forming thick clumps I prefer to keep it about an inch and a half to two inches long over winter which helps protect it from the worst of the weather. A dressing of Autumn and winter lawn feed should be
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watered. Feed with bonemeal and later with fish blood and bone fertilizer. Blueberries should be planted in plenty of ericaceous soil. It is recommended to plant at least two bushes in close proximity to ensure pollination. Choose varieties with large sweet berries and that will produce fruit from July until september. rhubarb is another easy fruit to grow with one crown producing lots of edible stems for many years. It must be planted in an open sunny place in free draining soil. Harvest the young sweet stalks from April to June but for
by Maureen Catlin Milton Ernest Garden Centre oVemBer is the last month of autumn. We tidy up the borders, clean out the greenhouse and put the mower away for the last time until spring.
N
But it is not “batten down the hatches” and wait for winter to pass. In the veg patch Japanese onion sets, shallots, Broad Beans and Garlic should be planted. make sure the area is completely weed free and the soil has been raked to a moderate tilth. plant the onions, shallots and Garlic about 10cms apart and 30cms between the rows to make hoeing easy later on and cover with wire mesh row covers to stop the blackbirds pulling them out of the ground. In raised beds they can all be planted 5cms apart in a grid system. Good varieties to choose are for yellow onions senshyu yellow or electric if you prefer red. Jermor or Griselle are both good varieties of shallot and marco or Germidour for Garlic. For tasty early small Broad Beans sow the variety Aqualdulce now. Again rake the soil to a moderate tilth and sow the seed in a double row 20cms apart. mice love broad beans so put mouse deterrent at intervals along the row. When the beans germinate protect the young growth from the pigeons who also find them tasty. Asparagus is a vegetable worth cossetting as one crown can still be producing asparagus spears 20 years later so spend time and effort preparing the planting area. Dig a trench 25cms deep by 30cms wide. Fill with rotted compost or manure forming a ridge in the middle of the trench. place the asparagus crowns 40cms apart on the ridge spreading the roots evenly. Cover with 5cms of soil and mulch every autumn as the crowns grow. the spears can be harvested from late April until the end of June when the fern fronds should be allowed to grow strengthening the plants for next year’s crop. once the greenhouse has been cleared of tomatoes and peppers clean the glass and
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lightly fork over the soil. plant lettuce Winter Density and Corn salad for early salad leaves next spring. If you fancy some winter colour plant some bowls with half hardy dwarf cyclamen, polyanthus and pansies or violas. these will flower well when the outdoor tubs are at a lull. If the weather is extremely cold cover the plants with a double layer of garden fleece. If you haven’t already, plant Daffodils, tulips, Hyacinths and all the small naturalising varieties like snowdrops, scillas and Grape Hyacinths. there are so many lovely varieties of dwarf Daffodils and tulips now that make lovely additions to our Winter pansie patio tubs giving another interest next spring. When the borders have been cleared of perennial top growth and weeds assess the successes and failures and plan replacements. november is undoubtedly the best time for planting hardy shrubs, herbaceous plants, roses and trees. It is a good time to mulch the borders with rotted compost or shredded bark which will retain moisture during our now ever increasing dry spring and summer months and help suppress weed growth. It is also the best time to plant fruit trees and bushes. raspberries and Blueberries are two very profitable crops to grow. the berries are expensive to buy in the supermarkets when a single raspberry can produce several kilos of fruit and Blueberries even more. raspberries should to be planted in a trench filled with rotted manure or compost 50cms apart and gently heeled in. Cut the cane back to 25 cms and keep
an earlier crop cover the crown with a rhubarb Forcer in late January and enjoy one of the first crops from the Veg patch in pies and crumbles in February. the temperature is falling and the morning mists are thicker but when the days are dry and bright there are many jobs to encourage us into the Garden even in november.
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12 — KEMPSTON CALLING
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NOVEMBER 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
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out & about comedy p
Castle Comedy brings the giggles to the Gordon Arms Ent Shed, Castle Road, Bedford on Thursday November 10. the show is a classic mixed bill of comedy with tV names and UK circuit favourites. Headlining the show is Ninia Benjamin. she is one of the UK’s hottest female comedians with a wealth of television, stage and live stand-up experience. ninia was catapulted to stardom as one third of BBC3’s 3 non-Blondes, which later transferred to BBC2 and BBC America before going to a second series, shown globally. she has also appeared on BBC1’s Celebrity masterChef. ninia is a comedy force of nature who regularly headlines at the most prestigious comedy clubs in the UK including the Comedy store in London. “Bursting onto the stage in an explosion of energy, bombastic Benjamin certainly makes an attention-grabbing entrance” Chortle Nigel Ng is an award winning malaysian stand-up comedian
based in London. He made his tV debut in 2018 on Comedy Central in rob Delaney’s stand Up Central, shortly followed by roast Battle. He had an incredible debut run at the edinburgh Fringe Festival this year with his sell out show Culture shocked, and to top it off, he was nominated for the prestigious Best newcomer award! “Holds the stage with smiling ease and impressive skill” - The Times plus Bedford favourite paul revill will host the show. the show will feature support from top UK acts and the host for the evening is Castle Comedy favourite, paul revill. Doors open 7.30pm, show starts at 8.15pm and tickets are £10 or £18 which includes a pre show meal and glass of wine at the Gordon Arms. to book go to www.castlecomedy.co.uk or call 07736 060541 Castle Comedy – Bringing Comedy royalty to Bedford.
music a Hang on to your hats
Bedford Corn Exchange 7.30 Saturday, Nov 16
Bedford Choral society are performing elgar’s ‘Dream of Gerontius’. elgar wrote on the manuscript full score “this is the best of me”, and it is credited as being one of his finest works. Conducted by michael rose, the choir will be joined by the Bedfordshire symphony orchestra, with soloists Alison Kettlewell (mezzo-soprano), peter Hoare (tenor) and Ben Bevan (baritone). Incidentally, peter was, before reaching at its present international
operatic reputation, a teacher with the Bedfordshire music service. michael rose says of the work: “this is the third time I have conducted this masterpiece with Bedfordshire musicians. It is technically demanding for both chorus and orchestra, and it is not surprising to know that, at its first performance in Birmingham in october 1900, the chorus struggled with their music which had only reached them in late August.” the text by Cardinal newman is the story of Gerontius’s death and the journey of his soul to meet his God. the work uses a large orchestra and the chorus is often divided into two choirs with another, smaller semi-chorus used to gain contrasting textures. As BBC radio 3 once described a performance they broadcast, “Hang on to your hats. the things are about to get apocalyptic round here.” tickets are available from Bedford box office, the Harpur suite, 01234 718044 or email cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk.
14 — KEMPSTON CALLING
NOVEMBER 2019
ADDIson Centre, Kempston FUND RAISING
st mAry’s, CArLton
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MONDAY 18th NOVEMBER 2.00pm to 4.30pm £3.00 (InCL CUppA) tel: 01234 851877 or 01234 340997
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.
TEA DANCE
––––––––––––––––––––––– BeDForD FoLK DAnCe CLUB
COUNTRY AND FOLK DANCE CLUB
Thursday evenings 8pm – 10pm ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL CHURCH LANE, GOLDINGTON BEDFORD MK41 0HL Its good fun for only £3 including refreshments no partner required. ron Law 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com BeDForD nAtIonAL trUst AssoCIAtIon. 2.30PM start Tuesday 19th November Addison Centre, Kempston, MK42 8PN everyone welcome. no need to book small admission charge speaker: richard Galley on
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‘BEDFORD HIGHLANDERS’
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 BeDForD treFoIL GUILD
––––––––––––––––––––––– 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
GUIDING FOR ADULTS
––––––––––––––––––––––– WHIST DRIVE 2nd and 4th Thursday in the month BIDDENHAM VILLAGE HALL 7.30pm
––––––––––––––––––––––– BRIDGE CLUB Cranfield Village Hall MK43 0DR Sundays 6.50 for 7pm Info email tim.sharrock1@gmail.com
BeDForD Art soCIety Meeting, 7.15 for 7.30pm, Friday, November 1st putnoe Heights Church, Bedford, mK418eB Demonstration pauline Hazelwood is going to show us how she depicts planes and trains in watercolour. entry is free for members, £5 for visitors. Contact Jean paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk
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At Basement at Bunyan, mill street, Bedford mK40 3eU. Tuesday 12th November to Saturday 16th November. open from 11am to 4pm there will be a prize draw for voting for the “Best picture” www.bedsartsociety.co.uk
AUTUMN EXHIBITION
––––––––––––––––––––––– JOIN YOUR LOCAL PROBUS CLUB We are for retired or semi-retired people from all walks of life and may include business or professional people. (male & Female). We usually meet on the 1st Monday of each month at the Addison Centre, Kempston, Bedford over the lunchtime period. enjoy a meal in great company followed by a talk on a range of interesting topics. Why not come & give us a try!! Contact: Andrew on 01234 838407 BeDForD FLorAL Art soCIety 7.30pm, tuesday, november 5th the Addison Centre, Kempston
––––––––––––––––––––––– FLORAL DEMONSTRATION
by Teresa Rodriguez entitled “Flowers at the Bay”. Doors open at 7.00pm and visitors welcome £7 www.bedfordfloralartsociety.co.uk
––––––––––––––––––––––– WHAT’S ON AT THE COWPER & NEWTON MUSEUM Friday Quiz Evening – Get those thinking caps on! November 1, 7:00 pm-10pm in The Olney Centre tickets £10 per head, available from the museum and includes a Fish and Chip supper. Bring drinks, condiments and a headful of facts! tteams of up to 8 people. (no ticket sales on the night). ‘November Treats’ by Colin Veitch November 5, 10:30am - November 28, 4:30 pm An exhibition of his quirky take on the twelve Days of Christmas. Colin has given a twist to the words of this well-known song with his lino-cuts. Look carefully as you may be surprised by what you see! Admission to the Gallery is free. (Usual adult admission fee applies to see the museum and gardens).
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FOR ALL ENQUIRIES TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
THE
con club ub
CHRISTMAS BAZA AR
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KEMPSTON 01234 851120
at Milton Ernest Village Hall Saturday November 16, (7 for 7.30pm) Fish and chip supper, licensed bar In aid of village hall and prostate Cancer tickets £10 from Ian Kirk 01234 823711
––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB DAnCInG, WHIst, BInGo
STEADY ACOUSTIC
––––––––––––––––––––––– FOLK SESSION
At the Village Hall, Fridays 9.30-10.30. tina or Josh take us through a light-hearted 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
––––––––––––––––––––––– IRISH CEILI AND SET DANCING 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 BeDs & nortHAnts ms tHerApy Centre
Third Saturday of every month 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
BeDForD rspB LoCAL GroUp meet at ArA club, manton Lane Bedford mK41 7pF Thursday 21st November 7.30pm mike Weedon is assistant editor of ‘Bird Watching’ magazine. In January 2018 mike fulfilled a lifelong bird watching ambition to revisit eastern Hokkaido, the northernmost of the main Japanese islands. tonight he will share with us the amazing wildlife spectacles for which the region is renowned. suitable for experts and novices, rspB membership not essential. entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5. the facilities, including refreshments, are at ground level and there is secure parking. www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford –––––––––––––––– BeDForD LoCAL GroUp oF tHe WILDLIFe trUst Wednesday 13th November
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CEEC C CIIILL C FER FE ER ERR RR RIIIA R AR
THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
CONCERT BY POPULAR PLAYER
DAVID THOMAS WEDS 27th NOVEMBER 7.30 – 10.00pm TEA, COFFEE/BAR/RAFFLE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford
CHRISTMAS
FAIR
British Red Cross Bedfordshire
Saturday November 23, 10am-4pm, Entry Fee £4, under 10’s free Programme will include demonstrations, tastings & activities. Live performances by Local School Choirs. Stalls selling superb, quality items & many handmade gifts & products. Homemade cakes, refreshments, raffle, tombola & much more. The Great Hall, Bedford Boys School, Burnaby Road, off De Parys Ave., Bedford, MK40 2TU. Parking/disabled parking available.
––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD HARRIERS HALF MARATHON Sunday 1st December 2019 from Wootton Upper School. entries can be made via Bedford Harriers website.
––––––––––––––––––––––– Kempston mUsICAL soCIety
CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT
Kempston musical society, together with Bedford road Lower school Choir, will be performing a selection of Christmas carols and festive music on saturday 14th December at Kempston East Methodist Church. the concert will start at 7.30pm. and tickets will cost £7.50 on the door, which will include refreshments. this concert is guaranteed to get you in the mood for Christmas. to find out more about all our forthcoming concerts or information about the choir please call 01234 781010 or email prestissimo@btinternet.com.
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By Dr nick Barratt Drama Hall, mark rutherford school Wentworth Drive, Bedford mK41 8pX members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk
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Tuesday 10th and We W ednesday 11th 4.30pm until 6pm only £6 per child hild
KID KI ID DS S’ C CH HRIIS HRI HR STTM MA MAS AS A S PARTY PA SU UNDA AY Y 22ND 3.30PM M UNTIL 6.30PM ON NLLY Y £2 PER CHILD INCLUDES VISIT AND GIFT FROM SANTTA A NEW YEAR’S EVE FREE TO ALL MEMBERS IF YOU HAVE ANY FAMILLY Y VISITING WE HAVE A LIMITED NUMBER OF SPECIAL VISITORS TICKETS £10 EACH
To advertise to over 58,000 homes in Bedfordshire just call 07894 935952
Remembrance Service in Kempston 2019
BeDForDsHIre FAmILy HIstory soCIety 7.15pm Friday 1st November 2019 Interested in Family History? then come along to our talk on
Legal Records for Genealogists
BOOK OOK NOW OW FOR FO TEA WITH SANTA NT TA A
TOOK O K A YEA EAR TO GET ET THIS THIS FANTTA FANTAS ASTIC SOUL SINGER BAC BACK TO OUR CLUB THE AMAZING
‘Managing Grasslands in Bedfordshire’
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THE ONE AND ND ONLY ONLLY Y LADY LADY SIGNED BY Y ROBB ROBBIE WILLIAMS LABEL BEL THE BEAUTIFUL
Saturday day 23rd November ber
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An illustrated talk by Wildlife Living Landscapes manager, Laura Downton. meeting 7-15 for 7.30 priory methodist Church Hall, newnham Avenue, Bedford mK41 9QJ plenty of parking available, All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Further details available under events on www.wildlifebcn.org or 01234 266057
THIS LADY HAS A VOICEE TH THA ATT WILL BLOW YOU AW AWAY AY
THE FANTTA ASTIC
BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB
STTA AC CE EY LEEEE
Saturday ay 9th 9th November Nov m
RA R AC CH HELL P HE PA AU ULL
––––––––––––––––––––––– MONTHLY SALE
BACK BY DEMAND THE BEAUTIFUL
Satu aturday 16th November
––––––––––––––––––––––– BLACK CRICKET KIDS CLUB
moGGerHAnGer Keep FIt GroUp
KA K ATTIIE IE WIILLS W SO ON ON
NIC NI ICK ICK KIITTA A
7.30 Last Tuesday of the month at The Burnaby Arms, Stanley Street, BEDFORD MK41 7RU. All abilities Beginners very welcome. Info from mike 01234 308449 Facebook: Burnaby steady session see also Bedfordshire beginners melodeon playgroup
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Sa S attu urday 30th November
AS AMY WINEHOUSE ONE WINE OFF THE THE BEST IN THE COUNTRY UNT Y
Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm CentenAry HALL, behind Kempston town Hall, Bedford road For further information telephone: 01234 347306
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
Sa atturday 2n nd d November
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’
Jack Liebeck violin, William Vann piano 7.45pm, Thursday 21 November Bedford School Recital Hall tickets £18, students 18-25 £5, Under-18 £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk
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CHrIst tHe KInG pArIsH HALL Harrowden road, Bedford mK42 0sp
––––––––––––––––––––––– Saturday 9th November 9am to noon. Entry 50p refreshments available, tables £5 - must be prebooked. For information call on 01234 965497
TABLE TOP SALE
AFTERNOON VINTAGE TEA
Friday 22nd November 2pm to 4pm Admission £4 - tea, home-made cake and friendship For Information call 01234 326291 Kempston HAmmers sports AnD soCIAL CLUB
THURSDAY 12TH DEC 7:45pm tickets £2.00, available only in advance, from the Club tel: 01234 853262
CHRISTMAS BINGO mID BeD FLoWer CLUB Christmas demonstration – some ideas
––––––––––––––––––––––– “Let the festivities begin”
by our excellent demonstrator, Julie Woods 7.45pm November 14th (doors open 7.15 pm) Flitwick Village Hall Visitors are very cost £10 includes a glass of wine and a mince pie. For more info contact marion tucker tel: 01234 742396 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! our next production is the ever popular,’ pirates of penzance,’19th -23rd november 2019 For tickets and further information, visit our website: www.saods.org.uk.
––––––––––––––––––––––– WORLD SHIP SOCIETY Kempston Constitution Club 196A Bedford road, Kempston
BEDFORD BRANCH 3rd tHUrsDAy in the month telephone: 01234 352014
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10 November at 2.30pm east methodist church, bedford road, Kempston followed by laying of wreaths at st John’s street war memorial
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Tuess, Wedss, Thurrs 3pm–Midnight – Frri-Sat Noon-1am – Suun-Mon Noon-Midnight
Christmas at Kempston East dŚĞ 'ŝƌůƐ͛ Θ ŽLJƐ͛ ƌŝŐĂĚĞ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ĂƌŽů ŽŶĐĞƌƚ
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16 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; KEMPSTON CALLING
NOVEMBER 2019
FOR ALL ENQUIRIES TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
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Sports charity serves up free tennis first in Kempston as part of national programme nAtIonAL sports charity â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;tennis For Freeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; has served up an ace for Kempston and the surrounding area by investing in a programme of free tennis at Addison Howard park. now started at Addison Howard park tennis courts, Bed-
ford road, Kempston, Bedford mK42 8pn will be home to free tennis every saturday morning between 10-11:30am. In an exciting partnership with Bedford Borough Council and the LtA, tennis For Free will provide free coach-
led tennis sessions for all the family for one year as part of its aim to use tennis to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of all members of the community across the UK. Addison Howard tennis For
Free sessions will be led by professional tennis coach ryan Bezer and everyone is welcome, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need a racket or a ball as all equipment is provided free of charge. All you need to do is sign up at www.tennisforfree.com
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ryan Bezer said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am very excited to welcome tennis For Free to Bedford and join the other 100+ tennis For Free sites across the UK. the tennis For Free scheme is a fantastic opportunity for the local community to try tennis for either the first time, or to dust off the cobwebs after a time away from the sport. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fun, friendly and entertaining free weekly event where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll make new friends and benefit from regular exercise. there is no catch, as the name suggests, everything is free.â&#x20AC;?
tennis For Free Ceo paul Jessop said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are changing the image of tennis to a sport for ALL by removing the cost barrier so that members of all communities can play and benefit physically, mentally and socially. Addison Howard park is one of hundreds of schemes we are opening across the UK over the next five years as part of our plan to get more people playing this wonderful sport. We have created specially designed programmes to welcome families, the old and the young, of any ability and the beauty is that each session is led by qualified tennis coaches who will ensure people develop at their own pace. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just about the playing. We have seen at our other schemes that small friendly community groups grow. this social cohesion is great to see especially for those who may not think tennis is for them but is for another member of their family. people can still stay involved and help run the schemes. We are always looking for local volunteers to grow the game, indeed some of
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our most successful and sustainable schemes across the UK have the coaches supported by a team of volunteers who organise further events which all contributes towards everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wellbeing.â&#x20AC;? Leo tutt from the LtA said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are very excited about the free activities being created for people to play tennis in Bedford through the tennis for Free programme. Addison Howard park is a really accessible park in the heart of the community. Having good local easy to access park facilities where you can play informally with your family and friends is really important to encourage people to play. But tennis For Free is also about the ability to meet new people and develop friendships, taking regular exercise and simply having fun. It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t about finding the next Andy murray, but about making tennis accessible to all.â&#x20AC;? Cllr Doug mcmurdo, portfolio Holder for Leisure, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;these tennis For Free sessions are a great opportunity to get active in one of our local parks, whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never picked up a racket or are a seasoned regular. Qualified coaches will be on hand and equipment is provided, all for free. the sessions are open to people of all ages and will enhance physical and mental wellbeing. sign up online and get involved.â&#x20AC;?
SIGN UP
Sign up for Tennis For Free at Addison Howard Park tennis courts every Saturday between 10-11:30am at www.tennisforfree.com. You can also follow Tennis For Free on Twitter and Facebook @tennisforfree
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Coaching team, left to right: William Walford and Ryan Bezer. Kempston Calling is an independent publication, part of rosetta publishing Ltd. published by Š2019 rosetta publishing Limited, 30 radwell road, milton ernest Bedford mK44 1sH. tel: 07894 935952 editorial: editorial@rosettapublishing.com Advertising: martin@rosettapublishing.com printed by: reach printing services, Kimpton road, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 0sX.