Stotfold News Magazine December 2023 by Stotfold and Arlesey News Magazines

Stotfold

NEWS

December 2023 Issue 223

Special FESTIVE issue!

News Events Information Delivered FREE to 4,900 homes in Stotfold & Fairfield.

From the Editor Welcome to December!

So, here we are! Our Festive edition for 2023... We wanted the theme of our Editors Letter this month to focus on saying THANK YOU. Each month there are a small army of people that help contribute to your monthly magazine and help us get it though your doors in time for the month ahead. This month we wanted to use this column to let them all know how much they are valued and appreciated. We’d like to say a huge THANK YOU firstly to our advertisers - it costs us a great deal of money to print our magazine and without our advertisers this simply would not be possible. Thank you all for trusting us with your advertising and for supporting our magazine. We’d also like to thank our editorial contributors who, every month are hassled incessantly until they have sent in their news and updates - THANK YOU to all of our schools, groups and individuals who take the time to compile their submissions each month - Alongside this, we’d like to include our local photography enthusiasts who send us their wonderful pictures to use on our front covers (including Paul Edwards who’s wonderful photograph we chose to use on our front cover for this month!) THANK YOU all. Our biggest THANKS must go to the 140 + delivery volunteers we have between both Stotfold and Arlesey who give up their time each month to help us to deliver. Without you, we simply could not do the job we love. Our final THANKS are left for you, our readers who continue to let us know that you enjoy the magazine and make the hours it takes to compile it each month so very worthwhile. Thank you so much to you all. We hope you enjoy the festivities this month, there’s lots to do and get involved in! We hope to see you out and about enjoying all that Stotfold has to offer. Until next month... Happy Christmas! Joanne

With thanks to this month’s contributors:

Until next month.... Stotfold Town Council, Stotfold Watermill, Stotfold Joanne Football Club, Our local schools, David Stedman, (Quiz) Stotfold Art Group, Stotfold Library, Our local Churches & local organisations, The Need Project. THANK YOUS Jo Loach, Ian Charles, Wanderbus, Contact: stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk or write to us at Stotfold News Magazine, 78 Hitchin Road, Stotfold, Hertfordshire, SG5 4HT Tel: 01462 731986 You can also contact us via our facebook page.

Deliveries: We have over 100 volunteers that deliver the Stotfold News Magazine. If for any reason you do not receive your copy of the magazine please contact us to let us know. Published by Stotfold News Ltd. Printed in memory of Roy West.

CONTENTS Local News Diary of Events Family Announcements Letters Local Church News Stotfold Town Council update News from Stotfold Mill Update from the NEED Project Monthly Fun Quiz! News from Stotfold Football Club News from Stotfold Library Mental Health Matters Memory Lane

Page 4,5,6,7,9 Page 8 Page 18 Page 21 Page 22,23,24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32

All this, alongside all our usual news and events from our local schools, groups & organisations..

NEXT ISSUE - JANUARY

Please note: our advertising deadline is 6th December- Call for detals 01462 731986 3

Local News

Christmas Angels

For one week from 11 December knitted angels will again be appearing around the streets of Stotfold. If you find one please take it home and if you should find more than one, please pass it on to someone else to share the joy of Christmas.

A Warm Welcome Awaits You At The Greenacres Centre.

Stotfold Town Council have kindly agreed to let volunteers from community groups in Stotfold run a free Community Coffee Morning at the Greenacres Centre, starting on Tuesday 5th December through till March. The Maple Room will be open from 9.00am till 1.00pm every Tuesday offering a warm welcome, free snacks and hot/soft drinks (including soup and bread at lunchtime) and games/jigsaws plus crayons/some toys and books for young children. All the food and drink will kindly be donated by the Need Project. Everyone is welcome and we are particularly keen to encourage young families to join us. If you have any questions contact Helen Wightwick on cllrhelenwightwick@stotfoldtowncouncil.gov.uk.

Stotfold Short Mat Bowls,

We are a voluntary organisation who meet every Monday 2 - 4 pm approx. in the Memorial Hall, Stotfold, to play Short Mat Bowls. Perhaps you would like to join us? We are a friendly club where everyone is welcome. For more details contact Ann Watmough Club Secretary, Tel:01462 629575

Special Award For Stotfold’s Slimming World’s Dawn.

Dawn A local Slimming World Consultant has attended a special event in recognition of the support she provides to people in Stotfold to help them live happier, healthier lives. Dawn, who runs the Stotfold Slimming World group at the Memorial Hall every week, has been awarded Gold status by the weight loss organisation thanks to the number of people she supports and the high level of service she provides to her members. She collected the award at a prestigious ceremony in Birmingham but was invited to a Celebration Day at Slimming World’s headquarters in Derbyshire alongside all of the other ‘Gold’ Consultants.

She says: “While I’m the one collecting this award, it’s an achievement for everyone in the group – they’ve absolutely gone for gold when it comes to their weight loss! There’s such a brilliant energy in our group, we have so much fun – everyone’s welcomed with kindness and given so much support. There’s no better place to be if you want to lose weight and improve your health! The Stotfold Slimming World group is held every Tuesday at 4pm or 5.30pm or 7pm at Memorial Hall, Hallworth Drive. Contact Dawn for more details on 07515557803

Email us at stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk

End Of An Era For Charles’s Fish & Chip Shop, Stotfold.

Local News

On September 30th 2023 I shut down my pans for the last time and retired after 54 years of being a full time chippy.

The family business was founded by my great grandfather Caleb Charles in 1924. His first shop was a glorified tin hut in Common Road. Business went well and in 1932 he built a new shop on the side of his house in Regent Street where it has remained ever since. The business thrived, especially during WW2 when fish was one of the few food items not rationed. Not that chippies could choose what fish they wanted, they got whatever the The shop as it was for many years on Regent Street. fishermen could catch. On one occasion Caleb’s entire consignment was herrings so no fish and chips that day, just fresh herrings which were soon snapped up by hungry Stotfolders! In 1948 Caleb decided to retire and told the family “if you want it, you’ll have to buy it”. Caleb didn’t give much away. To keep the shop in the family, my great Aunt Olive Charles and her brother in law Ralph Talbot - Stotfold’s post master, purchased the business and a new era dawned. My Dad had started work at the shop in 1947 and after marrying Mum, Caleb’s granddaughter, moved into the house next to the shop in July 1948. I arrived on the scene in 1952 and it wasn’t so very long before I got involved in the business. In school holidays during my primary school years I’d sometimes go out with my Dad on the wet fish round we used Edward Bowskill (right) and his helper Bill Rowe (left) pictured outside the shop in 1953 to run. As I grew up I graduated to helping with the spuds and doing the washing up to earn my pocket money. In spite of this involvement with the business, it was not my intention to make it my career on leaving school but I decided to enter the family business in 1969. This surprised the family somewhat but I think they were relieved as it meant the business would continue for at least another generation. I can remember my first pay packet in July 1969, £11. That included overtime and I’d never seen so much money. My Grandfather passed away in 1980 and Mum inherited his share of the business so it was “petticoat power” for a few years until 1984 when both Mum and my great aunt decided to hang up their aprons and hand over the business to me. That put me in the odd position of being my Dad’s boss but it didn’t affect the great working relationship we had. Dad semi retired in 1988 but he never let go entirely and even in his 80s he’d come up the shop to do some washing up and keep an eye on what the “young lad” was doing. Dad passed away in 2006. I carried on working well past my 65th birthday but as my 71st birthday was approaching rapidly, I decided it was finally time to retire. I was the fourth generation to run the business but with no fifth generation to take over the reins, it’s the end of an era. I’ll miss it and my lovely customers, whom I thank for their support over the years. Now it’s time to spend more time with my lovely wife and get on with being a “gentleman of leisure”. Ian Bowskill

The familiar sight of Ian preparing to open the shop some years ago.

Local News

Stotfold Judo Club Competition Results 2023

Leicester Open Championships Isabella Andrews SILVER Josh Harrington BRONZE (Thomas Stacey DNM) British Minors Championships Elise King SILVER (Lewis Dixon DNM) High Wycombe Red Belt Rumble Samuel MacArthur GOLD Edward Miller BRONZE Eastern Area Closed Championships Felix Weston BRONZE Josh Harrington SILVER (team) BRONZE (individual) Al Judo Club Competition Savannah Crossman GOLD Isabella Andrews SILVER Welsh Open Championship Hari Crowley (DNM) For details on the club contact stotfoldjudo@gmail.com or www.stotfoldjudo.co.uk

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Christmas Events 2023.. CHRISTMAS IN STOTFOLD!

Saturday 25th November Stotfold Town Council Christmas Light Switch On event High Street, Stotfold. Event opens 4pm and includes St Mary’s School choir, Stotfold Salvation Army Band, Eat Feast, Sweet & Low Singing Trio, Fair Rides, Community Stalls and refreshments. The Town Council would like to encourage you to walk to this event where possible to avoid congestion. THANK YOU!

Sunday 3rd November Light Switch On at Silverbirch Avenue, Stotfold (SG5 4AS) 6.30pm. Join residents as they switch on their Christmas Lights, refreshments and a visit from Santa on his sleigh! A true Stotfold tradition! Thursday 7th December Santa’s Sleigh rides around Stotfold from 6pm Route to be confirmed on local facebook pages nearer the time - collection for ‘Feed up, Warm up’ on the day. With thanks to Saunders Garage.

CRIME FIGURES

STOTFOLD & FAIRFIELD September 23 The most recent crime figures available from the Poilce national website: Violence & sexual offences - 13 Anti-social behaviour - 16 Other theft - 3 All Other crime - 7 Drugs - 2 Criminal damage & arson - 2 Vehicle crime - 1 Source: www.police.co.uk

Email: stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk

Fantastic Support For Remembrance. Many people turned out to support this year’s Remembrance Services held at Stotfold Cemetery and St Mary’s Church. Wreaths were laid by The Royal British Legion, Our local churches, organisations, local government and councils.

Stotfold Art Group Update:

It will soon be time to climb into the loft and get the Art Group's Christmas tree down again! We always enter a decorated tree into St Mary's Winter festival and this year we are trying something different. The tree will host a mini exhibition of members' work, as we won't be holding our usual display in the Roecroft Centre this year. Last year we enjoyed painting pantomime themes, complete with Jack and his Beanstalk. So come along to St Mary's Church over the weekend of 9th and 10th December for our "art in minature " exhibition.

Local News Wanderbus Unveil New Bus!

Wanderbus, your Community Bus service has received delivery of its new 73-plate bus. Their 2015 bus has been replaced after 8 years of service and they now have a brand new Fiat 16 -seater bus built by Mellor Coach & Bus Company of Rochdale. As from November 1st Wanderbus have joined the DfT Government sponsored scheme where anyone paying cash will be charged £2.00 or less per single journey. The scheme runs until December 2024. (This does not affect child fares nor bus-pass users). This offers great value to get directly to Cambridge, Milton Keynes, Welwyn Garden City, St Albans, St Neots and all the more local destinations including Hitchin, Biggleswade (Centre & A1 Retail Park), Bedford and Letchworth - Call 0300 123 3023 or email thewanderbus@gmail.com for a timetable.

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STOTFOLD Diary Of Events.. DECEMBER

Saturday 2nd SMSA Wreath Making Workshop 2.30pm £35 per person, all materials provided just bring secateurs. Includes mince pie, tea, coffee/glass of fizz! proceeds to St Mary’s School. Booking info below. Saturday 2nd Christmas Photography Shoot, Chicksands Woods. Perfect for families, couples, and individuals looking to send personalised festive photos or to cherish their own keepsake. Book now to secure your spot – spaces are limited. www.infocusmoments.co.uk seb@infocusmoments.co.uk 07919213165 Saturday 2nd Stotfold Methodist Christmas Coffee Morning 10.30am - 12 noon.

St Mary’s Church

Saturday 2nd Fairfield Park Lower School PTA Christmas Fair 1-4pm at Ruskin Drive.

Sunday 3rd Stotfold Creative Fair 11am-4pm FREE entry, Fairfield Community Hall. Over 40 small local businesses!

Sunday 3rd Silverbirch Light Switch On Starts 6.30pm, Christmas lights, refreshments and a visit from Santa! Friday 8th, Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th BATS perform Aladdin at Biggleswade Academy on Friday at 7:30pm, Saturday 2pm & 7:30pm and Sunday at 12:30pm. Tickets: www.ticketsource.co.uk/bats Friday 8th BAUBLES & BUBBLES Christmas bauble painting party in Stotfold - 01462 234228/ 07810 620871

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

Saturday 9th December 10.00 – 4.00 Sunday 10th December 11.00 – 4.00

St. Mary’s Church, Stotfold

Refreshments, games, stalls and display of children’s art work in the Church Hall Charity no: 1131275

Box of Cakes Cafe & Cake shop. CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS Closed Sun 24th-Wed 27th Dec Open Thur 28th-Sat 30th Dec Closed Sun 31st - Wed 3rd Jan Normal hours resume Thurs 4th Jan Hallworth Drive Stotfold 07812 055587

Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th St Mary’s Church Christmas Tree Festival. Saturday 10.00 - 4.00, Sunday 11.00 - 4.00. Also visit the display of children’s artwork, stalls & refreshments in the church hall. Wednesday 13th The Big Carol Sing, St Mary's Church 2pm - 3pm

Saturday 16th The Stag Stotfold The amazing Magenta Slipperz will be Dragging Us Into Christmas from 8pm Book tables direct with the pub on 01462 731098 Sunday 17th Sewcial Sunday, Fairfield Park Community Hall, Bring your sewing machine and project and sew with friends, 10am - 4pm, £10 per person. To book a place email sew.social.22@gmail.com

Local News

The Stotfold Calendar 2024 - available to buy NOW!

Orders are now being taken for the 2024 Stotfold calendar produced on behalf of Stotfold Town Council by the Stotfold News Magazine. The calendar features some stunning local photographs taken in and around Stotfold by Stotfold Magazine readers. As of past years, we received over 100 photographs, with the judges having an extremely difficult task of choosing just 13. Congratulations to all winning entries.

The calendar is available from the Stotfold Town Council front office and is priced at just £6 - all proceeds from the calendar will go towards the Stotfold Christmas Lights fund. You can also purchase the calendars at the Christmas Light Switch On event on the 27th November in Stotfold High Street. GRAB YOUR COPY NOW!!

STOTFOLD GARDEN CLUB

Meetings and Trips Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month at St. Mary’s Church Hall. Wednesday 13th December 2023 Christmas Party Entertainer -David Tomkins

For more information, contact Peter on: (01462) 834854/ 07758649721 stotfoldgc@gmail.com

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Poppies & Poppyfields Nursery We have continued our enjoyment of autumn as it bustles into winter! The mornings are much cooler and our children have had so much fun playing with falling leaves, exploring their shapes, textures, sizes, and smells! We spend time outside in our beautiful, natural outdoor areas every day and enjoy forest school activities such as making bird cake, activities with pinecones, and making stick men! We talk to our children about the wildlife we can see in our outdoor havens, and how birds, squirrels, insects, and hedgehogs cope with the winter months without the warmth of a hat or coat! We feel being outdoors, dressed appropriately, is important for us all. Walking outside in the fresh air and seeing natures beauty can be an amazing boost to our mood. We have also enjoyed creative arts with fireworks as our subject which included dance, craft, and music. We spent time looking at Diwali , using stories, crafts , clay and dance and are well under way with our Christmas preparations! Children have been exploring dance styles from around the world which we are looking forward to seeing in our Christmas production in December! We also have our decorations ready and waiting for the Christmas Tree Festival at St Marys Church on 9th and 10th December. Every child has created a beautiful Level 3 Qualified decoration for this very special event.

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The photographer visited both settings recently, providing families with beautiful pictures for Christmas. Children also made Christmas cards for their families to order, and a group tea towel has been made where every nursery child drew a self-portrait!

ARLESEY PHARMACY

FREE Prescription delivery service to ALL Arlesey and Stotfold residents

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Poppies and Poppyfields both offer breakfast club, nursery sessions, afterschool club, and full day care, from Monday to Friday during the term and additionally offer holiday club. Poppies age range is 2 years old to Reception, while Poppyfields is 2 years old to Year 2. For Poppies, St Mary’s Academy site, enquiries please contact billpoppies@gmail.com, and for Poppyfields at Fairfield Lower School, Dickens Boulevard site, please contact billpoppyfields@gmail.com. Quote of the month: “Fresh air is as good for the mind as the body. Nature always seems trying to talk to us as if she has some great secret to tell. And so, she has” John Lubbock

News from Pippin Pre-School We supported two events during November, Children in Need and the Stotfold Christmas Fair with our ever poplar Chocolate Tombola stall! On behalf of the Committee we would like to thank all our parents and staff for supporting this event by donating lots of chocolate and sweeties together with monetary donations to help make the stall a success. The money raised from this event will go towards our planned Christmas activities. Throughout December the children will be participating in various activities to celebrate the run up to Christmas. We begin on 9th and 10th December, with the children exhibiting their baubles at the Festival of Christmas Trees held at St Mary’s Church, Church Road. Please try and pop along to view all the wonderful trees and creations on display, refreshments are available from the Church Hall. Our Christmas programme will also include our Children’s

Christmas Party, our Superstars’ Christmas Concert and a visit from Santa on the last day of term! Our Holiday Club will be CLOSED during the festive period.

Finally, we would like to wish all our families a wonderful Christmas and hope you all have a restful break.

We look forward to welcoming all the children back on Monday 8th January 2024.

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Christmas Hero 2023

! k c a It’s B

HAS SOMEONE YOU KNOW BEEN A REAL LIFE HERO DURING 2023?

Do you know somebody who has really made a difference over the last 12 months? Perhaps you know someone who has faced a difficult time and deserves a special treat?

AS ALWAYS, WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR STORIES....

Christmas Hero WINNERS 2022 Linda & Sue (Stotfold) & Helen (Arlesey) onsor the Proud to sp n centre Stotfold Tow ree 2023 Christmas T

Its easy to enter...

WIN THEM A FANTASTIC FESTIVE PRIZE!!

In association with the Stotfold & Arlesey News Magazine, Satchells Estate Agents are once again on the hunt for this year’s real life Christmas Hero. if someone has made a difference to you this year then please nominate them NOW to let them know how much they mean to you.

Simply email us at stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk message us through either the Stotfold News Magazine or Satchells facebook page or call us on (01462) 731986. You can also post your nomination through the door of Satchells Estate Agents 47b, High Street, Stotfold. The closing date for this years nominations is 1st December 2023. IT’S THAT SIMPLE!!

News from Fairfield Park Lower School Welcome to our news for December: Christmas is always a special time in school and this year was no exception! It’s the time of year where there is a hive of activity where children are learning Christmas carols, engaging songs and lines for performances, but also they are continuing to work hard with their learning across the curriculum!

This term our Year 1s have explored chronology and learnt about how toys of nowadays compare with toys of the past and our Year 3s have engaged in learning all about Asia, including Bhangra dancing. Year 4 explored the question, ‘are we in control?’ in relation to volcanic activity around the world and Year 2 learnt the history of the Gunpowder Plot. Our Early Years classes have explored celebrations from different religions, culminating in a nativity performance. We are very proud of all the performances that our children worked hard to deliver; we think they were the best way to kick start the festive season this year! We wish all our families a very happy Christmas. Value of the Half Term: Perseverance

Fairfield Park Lower School Dickens Boulevard & Ruskin Drive office@fairfieldparklower.uk 01462 830000

WALKS FOR HEALTH

Walks start at 10.45am December: 7th - Scout Hut, Stotfold. 14th, 21st - The Crown, The Green, Stotfold 28th - Arlesey tain station. More details contact Beth Overfield 01462 815672 ALL WELCOME!

Email: stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk

News from Pix Brook Academy Welcome to our December news. We are approaching the end of the term already. The day has finished for many pupils but for many others activities continue. As I took the opportunity to visit some department meetings, I was delighted to speak to pupils in year 5 homework club, drama, forensics club and then to see so many pupils both undertaking football training in addition to other sporting activities and fixtures. Given that it is the end of what has been a really busy term it is great to see pupils still fully immersed in school life. The last few weeks have included so much great stuff it is sometimes hard to keep track of it all. For our new year 5 it has been great to get to know these new pupils in school. Having 180 new pupils in year 5 in six classes certainly adds a buzz to the school and I know they enjoyed the traditional visit to Cadbury’s world last month and the year 6 also enjoyed their visit to the Victorian Museum in Hitchin. We are also looking forward to another quickly established tradition of our visit to the pantomime at the end of term as part of our Christmas celebrations for year 5.

November and December are always busy months in schools. We consider ourselves really fortunate to have such support from the community and try to “pay back” whenever we can. Having visitors from St Mary’s church in the form of Graham Clark to help us for Remembrance Day is a great example of how our pupils can be exposed to different voices talking about serious topics. A particularly relevant activity given the international unrest that is happening around the world.

As a school we are once again supporting the Need Project in supporting less fortunate families and collecting selection boxes and Christmas puddings. Christmas Jumper day will mark the official beginning of the festive period at school and the senior team will be serving the Christmas dinner to pupils at lunchtime, enjoying the festive tunes and hats!

I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all a very merry Christmas. It has been a really busy year but as always we look to the future with optimism. Steve Adams.

News from Roecroft Lower School Happy festive season to the local community, I hope you are all looking forward to a little time off over the coming month and are able to enjoy some time with friends and family. This month we have an update from our Early Years leader, Miss Ashby - it has been a joy watching our reception children settle into school life.

‘In September we welcomed our new cohort of children into Roecroft. They have settled into school brilliantly and are thoroughly enjoying their learning. During the first half of the Autumn term our topic in Reception was ‘Marvellous Me!’ and our learning was based around the children themselves, their families, and where they live how they have changed since they were born as well as discovering what they would like to be when they grow up. The children really enjoyed the topic, particularly when we learnt about where we live, on planet Earth, in the country of England and the town of Stotfold. The children used Google Maps and the Clevertouch board to zoom into Stotfold from afar and to find familiar landmarks within the town. We also found out that our school is on 'Buttercup Road'. Throughout this topic, the children have also been looking closely at their own features when drawing themselves and discussing what they would like to be when they grow up. They have also been discussing how they have changed from being a baby, along with finding out about how families and traditions are different as well as how new babies from different religions and cultures are welcomed into a family. A favourite activity was ‘Guess the Baby Teacher’ where children looked at different photos of

familiar adults in school and tried to work out which staff member it was! We also studied two artists; Pablo Picasso and Piet Mondrian and created some artwork based on their distinct styles of art. During the second half of the term our topic in Reception has been ‘Let’s Celebrate!’ We began the term by learning about Bonfire Night, Remembrance Day, Diwali and birthdays. We learnt about why these events are celebrated and the stories and traditions associated with them. As part of our learning about Remembrance Day we found out about the soldiers during World War I and II and what they did to keep us safe. We created poppy pictures and wrote thank you messages to them. We are now beginning our exciting Christmas activities and learning linked to this celebration that so many of us enjoy. We are looking forward to celebrating this with our friends in school and are also very excited to perform our Christmas nativity ‘A Reception Christmas Cracker’ to our families and friends later this month.’ For now, we wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy new year! Mrs Cross

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News from St Mary’s COE Academy

Christmas really is one of the best times of year to be working in a school. With a little help from our friends, the first weekend in December will be spent putting up our Christmas trees and decorations so when the children come into school it will be transformed. We may also have a visit from the mischievous Christmas elf! The look on the children’s faces when they see the trees, Nativity scene and classroom decorations is wonderful. On Thursday 7th December our children will be invited to wear something festive to celebrate Christmas Jumper Day. Any donations will be made to the very worthy Save the Children Charity. We are delighted to say all of our children will be practising for our Christmas Concerts to be presented to their families on Wednesday 13th and Thursday 14th December. It’s amazing what the staff and children can achieve with just a couple of weeks’ practice. We do not charge entry for concerts but we will be supporting The Need Project this year with voluntary donations collected during Concert week. Our choir are busy rehearsing for their Christmas performances at Baycroft Nursing Home on Saturday 16th at 11am and at the Stotfold Christmas Lights Switch-on on 25th November 2023 from 4pm -7.30pm.

Our parent’s association, the SMSA will also be running a number of events through the Festive Season, starting with a Wreath Making Workshop on Saturday 2nd, the popular Christmas Gift Shop where the children buy and select a special gift for their parents/grandparents/carers on Friday 15th and finishing with the Grand Raffle Draw on Friday 22nd December. As is now tradition in the last week of term, we will have Christmas Dinner on Wednesday 20th and a Christmas Buffet Lunch, Pantomime and Class Parties on Thursday 21st. Our Christmas Service will also be held at St Mary’s Church on Friday 22nd, so look out for our procession on our way to Church! This is always a lovely way to end the term. Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped or supported the work of our school again this year. From all of us at St Mary’s, we would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year. See you all back at school on Monday 8th January 2024!

To contact the Stotfold News Magazine please call 01462 731986

Etonbury Academy It doesn’t seem possible that we are now in December, the school festivities are in full swing here at Etonbury Academy. Decorations are up in our reception area and key areas throughout the school, activities and festive celebrations are taking place, there is a real sense of festive spirit and warmth around the school. Mrs Brahmachari-Limb, Head of Drama has been running auditions for our whole school production – School of Rock. Another great Etonbury community event for all years to participate in. This term we have held a Sixth Form Taster Week for our Year 11 students, suddenly they all look so grown up. From talking to many of them, they’ve really enjoyed their week hearing about the Sixth Form study subjects which our Year 11 enjoy. We also opened the doors to our wonderful Sixth Form facilities to welcome parents and pupils to our Sixth Form Open Evening. Students and their families had the opportunity to tour the Sixth Form facilities and meet specialist subject teachers. Meet the Tutor events saw a huge number of parents and teachers working together to support the children. As always, thank you for your support and engaging with us, it really makes a difference to our children’s futures.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped and supported the work of the school this year. Its only when parents and schools work closely together that young people fully achieve their potential.

Finally, if you would like to find out more or book a personal tour, please do get in touch with us on 01462 730391 or via email eta-office@bestacademies.org.uk to book. School tours for prospective parents provide a real sense of what we offer here at Etonbury. We believe we are a small, compassionate and exceptional educational community. Our children are happy and achieve their full potential, come and see for yourself what makes Etonbury special. Wishing all of our families a wonderful Christmas and a restful Christmas break

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15 Hitchin Road, Stotfold SG5 4HP

Installations All New Plumbing & Heating Installatio ns Bathroom & Shower Installations Servicing Boiler & Gas Cooker Installations & Serv icing Power Flushing & Heating Upgrades Andy Martini 07950 311963 | 01462 835617 835617 almplumbing17@gmail.com almplumbing17@gmail. com www.almplumbingandheating.co.uk www.almplumbingandh eating.co.uk 25 Marigold Way, Stotfold Stotfold SG5 4HQ 4HQ

To contact the Stotfold News Magazine please call 01462 731986

208308

Family

Our family announcements are FREE of charge

announcements

www.justgiving.com/gardenhousehospice

Announcements: We are happy to accept family announcements by post, telephone, through our facebook page. If you would like to make a donation in return for your then please visit the website above. Please mention that the donation has been made the Stotfold & Arlesey News Magazine.

email or announcement on behalf of

POLE FITNESS classes in Biggleswade.

Foundation courses & mixed level classes. To book go to: https://houseoffitness. simplybook.it/

Why not surprise someone with an announcement in the Stotfold News Magazine?

All we need is your chosen wording and a photograph (if you would like) and we’ll do the rest! Email us at stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk

LUKE FOX

JOYCE & JEFFREY SHEPHERD

Happy Platinum Wedding Anniversary! December 5th 2023.

Happy Birthday to my husband Luke! I hope you will have a great day! Love Anna xx

With love from all your family xx

OLIVIA & OLIVER

LUKE FOX

Happy Birthday Daddy! Love from your son James Alan Fox xxx

Congratulations on your engagement on the 1st November in California! Lots of love from all the family xx

MICK WELCH

LUCY AND ALEX

Happy 90th Birthday!!

Huge congratulations on the birth of Nancy Olivia Grant

With love from all your family xxx

Born 18th October. Lots of love from all the family xxxx

*IRGMRK * IRGMRK 4EXMSW 4EXMSW 0ERHWGETMRK 0ERHWGETMRK & VMGO &PSGO ;SVO &PSGO ;SVO &VMGO ( MKKIV (VMZIV ;SVO (VMZIV ;SVO (MKKIV )\XIRWMSRW %PXIVREXMSRW %PXIVREXMSRW )\XIRWMSRW [ [[ WERHNFVSGOFYMPHIVW GS YO [[[ WERHNFVSGOFYMPHIVW GS YO

JOE SAUNDERSON 1928-2023

Vera & Family would like to thank everyone who came to Joe’s funeral on the 5th of October at St. Mary’s Church, Stotfold.

I would also like to say many thanks for all the sympathy cards and floral tributes that were sent too.

The generous donations that were given in Joe’s memory to The Garden House Hospice, Letchworth, were greatly appreciated. Please mention the Stotfold News Magazine when responding to adverts

To contact the Stotfold News Magazine please call 01462 731986

Christmas

Wrapped Up at your Local

Traditional English Butchers Offering Quality Free Range Meat, Game & Fresh Eggs.

Order Christmas From Your Local AWARD WINNING Butchers..

CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES

December 19th 8.30 - 5pm December 20th and 21st closed December 22nd 8am - 7pm December 23rd 8am - 7pm December 24th 8am - 2pm.

LAST DAY FOR CHRISTMAS ORDERS SATURDAY

9th DECEMBER

20 Regent Street, Stotfold, Herts SG5 4EA Telephone: 07584 979361

Open Tuesday - Friday 8.30am - 5.00pm Saturday 8.30am - 4.00pm Sunday 10.00am-2.00pm

Your LETTERS Dear Editor may I pay tribute to ian of Charles Fish and Chips who has recently retired. Our family grew up having Friday nights supper from Charles’ - the best fish ever! He will be missed. - the end of an era for Stotfold. Enjoy your retirement Ian, Ann Barker & family. Dear Readers Are there any parents in our community whose ex-partners are making it difficult for them to see their children? Aside from the situations where a parent has genuine concerns, there are many reasons why ex-partners can become vengeful and block the other parent seeing their children.. There are more of us than you’d imagine. Based on my research, typical reasons include the acrimony that follows the breakdown of a relationship, to gain majority or sole custody of the children to improve their financial position in a divorce settlement or just spite. Of course, vengeful behaviour of this kind is inexcusable as the children find it very damaging. If you’re in this position, the good news is there’s light at the end of the tunnel, and it need not involve expensive solicitors. I faced a serious of allegations from my ex-wife, including the very worst kind. I successfully batted these away, in part thanks to the experience of the authorities. I believe the system does work. Children have an absolute right to a relationship with both their parents, and I’m glad to say that’s the position the courts seem to take these days. I was initially represented by legal counsel but switched to representing myself once I understood enough about the process. I would like to offer my advice to anyone going through this. If you’re wondering where to start, if you’re in the midst of a battle – or if you just need to speak to someone to let off steam, I’d like to offer my help. If you contact the editor, they will pass your details on to me, and I’ll be in touch. Name Witheld. Editors Note: If you would like to be put in contact please email us on stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk or call us on 01462 7321986 and we will pass your details on.

Dear Editor, I have some of the names in relation to the photograph inside the November Stotfold News Magazine, they are: Derek Sale, John Eley, John Saunders, Martin Matthews, Terry Westrop, Phil Westrop, John Webb, Walter Capeling, Raymond Dunkley, Melvyn Middleton, Trevor Elliot and myself, John Hyde. The photograph was taken at a party at the Unionist Hall, (along Common Road.)

Editors Note:It would be great to add the additional names to this list?

To contact the Stotfold News Magazine please call 01462 731986

Dear Editor, I would like to thank everyone involved with the steam engine rally at Stotfold. They must have worked so hard to continue with this event, it is so good for the children to see what we had in the past - the weather was wonderful as well. Mrs Eileen Minnis. Dear Editor I would like to thank Nath and Emma from Stotfold fencing. They did an amazing job on my new fence and gate. They turned up when they said they would, were polite and very professional. Highly recommend. Also a big thank you for my lovely neighbours who helped in clearing out the old garden shed and taking it down and removing it. Jan

CLAIRE’S CAT SITTING Stotfold based cat sitting service Now in our 11th year!

Your cats looked after in your own home while you are away, giving you complete peace of mind.I am fully insured & can feed your cats once or twice a day. Other small animals can also be catered for.

Please call Claire

07984 344 997 21

News from Our Local

Churches. News from St Guthlac’s Church, Astwick Our Christmas Candlelit Carol Service is on Monday 18th December at 7.30pm, followed by Coffee and hot Mince Pies. We have a simple service taking you through the Christmas Nativity story, intertwined with singing Christmas Carols led by the Stotfold Christian Choir, all set to the backdrop of candlelight. For those busy families opening presents, or those that find it difficult to make an early morning service, we have a later timed Christmas day Communion Service at 11:15am. We have a Communion Service every 1st Sunday of the month at 11:15am, followed by refreshments. Whether you’re a familiar face or a first-time visitor, you will always receive a warm welcome to all our events or services. We look forward to welcoming you. Rev. Jane Wheatley

Salvation Army Ladies Fellowship December 11th Party Time Please call 01462 731072 for further details

Please mention our magazine when responding to adverts

ĞůĞďƌĂƚĞ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ŝŶ zŽƵƌ WĂƌŝƐŚ ŚƵƌĐŚ ^ƚ DĂƌǇ͛Ɛ͕ ƚŚĞ WĂƌŝƐŚ ŚƵƌĐŚ ŽĨ ^ƚŽƚĨŽůĚ Θ &ĂŝƌĨŝĞůĚ ŚƵƌĐŚĞƐ dŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ͗ ĂƌŽůƐ ďǇ dŽƌĐŚůŝŐŚƚ ϰ͘ϯϬƉŵ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ ϯ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ tƌĂƉ ƵƉ ǁĂƌŵ ĂŶĚ ďƌŝŶŐ Ă ƚŽƌĐŚ ĂŶĚ ũŽŝŶ ƵƐ ŝŶ ^ƚ DĂƌǇ͛ƐƐ ŚƵƌĐŚǇĂƌĚ ĂƐ ǁĞ ƐŝŶŐ ĐĂƌŽůƐ͘ dŚĞ KƉĞŶ ƚŚĞ ŽŽŬ ƚĞĂŵ ǁŝůů ĂĐƚ ŽƵƚ ƚŚĞ EĂƟǀŝƚǇ ƐƚŽƌǇ͘ ^ĞĂƟŶŐ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ŽƵƚƐŝĚĞ ĂŶĚ ŝŶƐŝĚĞ ƚŚĞ ĐĂŶĚůĞůŝƚ ĐŚƵƌĐŚ͘ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ dƌĞĞ &ĞƐƟǀĂů ϭϬĂŵ - ϰƉŵ ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂǇ ϵ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϭϭĂŵ - ϰƉŵ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ ϭϬ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ŽŵĞ ĂŶĚ ƐĞĞ ƚŚĞ ƚƌĞĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ǀĂƌŝŽƵƐ ŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂůƐ ĂŶĚ ŐƌŽƵƉƐ ŝŶ ŽƵƌ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ ŚĂǀĞ ĚĞĐŽƌĂƚĞĚ͘ ŝŐ ĂƌŽů ^ŝŶŐ ϮƉŵ tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂǇ ϭϯ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ :ŽŝŶ ƵƐ ĨŽƌ ĐĂƌŽů ƐŝŶŐŝŶŐ ĨŽůůŽǁĞĚ ďǇ ƌĞĨƌĞƐŚŵĞŶƚƐ͘

&ĂŵŝůŝĞƐ Ăƚ &ŽƵƌ ŚƌŝƐƟŶŐůĞ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ ϰƉŵ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ ϭϳ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƐƵŝƚĂďůĞ ĨŽƌ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ŽĨ Ăůů ĂŐĞƐ͘ ĂĐŚ ĐŚŝůĚ ǁŝůů ďĞ ŐŝǀĞŶ Ă ĚĞĐŽƌĂƚĞĚ ŚƌŝƐƟŶŐůĞ KƌĂŶŐĞ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ůŝŐŚƚĞĚ ĐĂŶĚůĞ͘ ŽůůĞĐƟŽŶ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ ^ŽĐŝĞƚǇ͘ ^ŝǆ >ĞƐƐŽŶƐ ĂŶĚ ĂƌŽůƐ ϲ͘ϯϬƉŵ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ ϭϳ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ^ŝŶŐ ǇŽƵƌ ĨĂǀŽƵƌŝƚĞ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ĐĂƌŽůƐ ĂŶĚ ůŝƐƚĞŶ ƚŽ ŝďůĞ ƌĞĂĚŝŶŐƐ ĂďŽƵƚ ƚŚĞ ďŝƌƚŚ ŽĨ :ĞƐƵƐ͘ EĂƟǀŝƚǇ ; ƌŝďͿ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ϯƉŵ Θ ϰƉŵ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ǀĞ ŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĐĂŶ ǁĞĂƌ ƚŚĞŝƌ ŽǁŶ ĐŽƐƚƵŵĞƐ ĂƐ ǁĞ ƌĞƚĞůů ƚŚĞ ƐƚŽƌǇ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ EĂƟǀŝƚǇ ŝŶ ǁŽƌĚƐ ĂŶĚ ĐĂƌŽůƐ͘ DŝĚŶŝŐŚƚ DĂƐƐ ϭϭ͘ϯϬƉŵ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ǀĞ ƚƌĂĚŝƟŽŶĂů ŽŵŵƵŶŝŽŶ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ ǁŝƚŚ ĐĂƌŽůƐ͘

ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ĂǇ ŽŵŵƵŶŝŽŶ ϭϬĂŵ ^ƚ DĂƌǇ͛Ɛ͕ ^ƚŽƞŽůĚ - ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ǁŚŽůĞ ĨĂŵŝůǇ ǁŝƚŚ ĐĂƌŽůƐ͘

ůů ^ĂŝŶƚƐ͕ ZĂĚǁĞůů ^ŝǆ >ĞƐƐŽŶƐ ĂŶĚ ĂƌŽůƐ ϲ͘ϯϬƉŵ ^ƵŶĚĂǇ ϭϳ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ

ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ĂǇ ŽŵŵƵŶŝŽŶ

ϵ͘ϬϬĂŵ͕ ůů ^ĂŝŶƚƐ͕ ZĂĚǁĞůů ^ŝŶŐ ǇŽƵƌ ĨĂǀŽƵƌŝƚĞ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ĐĂƌŽůƐ ĂŶĚ ůŝƐƚĞŶ :ŽŝŶ ƵƐ ŽŶ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ĂǇ ŝŶ Ă ǀŝůůĂŐĞ ĐŚƵƌĐŚ͘ ƚŽ ŝďůĞ ƌĞĂĚŝŶŐƐ ĂďŽƵƚ ƚŚĞ ďŝƌƚŚ ŽĨ :ĞƐƵƐ͘

ŚƵƌĐŚ ZŽĂĚ͕ ^ƚŽƚĨŽůĚ ^'ϱ ϰE ͕ ǁǁǁ͘ƐƚŽƚĨŽůĚĐŚƵƌĐŚ͘ŽƌŐ͘ƵŬ ZĞǀĚ͘ ŝůů ƌŝƚƚ ϬϭϰϲϮ ϳϯϬϮϭϴ Žƌ ƌĞǀĚ͘ďŝůů͘ďƌŝƚƚΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ ZĞŐŝƐƚĞƌĞĚ ŚĂƌŝƚǇ EŽ͘ ϭϭϯϭϮϳϱ

News from Our Local

Churches. News from Kings Baptist Church

Sunday Services 3 December: Christingle Service at 10.30am 10 December: Communion Service & King’s Kids and Youth Christmas Party at 10.30am 17 December: Nativity Service at 10.30am 17 December: Carols by Candlelight & Christmas Feast at 4.00pm 24 December: Christmas Eve celebration at 10.30am 31 December: New Year’s Eve celebration at 10.30am Other Services Thursday 21 December: Longest Night Service at 6.00pm. A reflective service to help those who find Christmas difficult. Monday 25 December: Christmas Day celebration at 10.30am Prayer MeetingsSundays: 6.00pm – 7.30pm Wednesdays: 10.00am – 12.00 noon

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Donated Chromebooks Following a review of our IT, we had some surplus Chromebooks which we were able to rehome at Etonbury School 6th Form to be used by students.

Helping the Grass Grow The Town Council has received over £11,000 of funding from the Football Association to improve the playing surfaces of the football pitches in Stotfold. We’re working with a contractor who has undertaken a pitch inspection with recommendations on remedial works which will enhance the playing surface, including repairs to the pitches. Already an improvement has been noticed with one local footballer telling the us that they’ve already seen an improvement.

Citizen of the Year We are seeking nominations for the Citizen of the Year Award 2023. Nominees should be individuals who have significantly contributed to the Stotfold community. Self-nominations are not permitted. If you choose to nominate a councillor, the recognition must be for their activities beyond their role with the Town Council. All nominations must be submitted by Friday 12 January 2024, and the winner will be announced at the Annual Town Meeting on Thursday, March 7, 2024. Please submit your nominations, of no more than 250 words, about why your proposed candidate deserves to be the Citizen of the Year to the Town Clerk, townclerk@stotfoldtowncouncil.gov.uk or drop in your nomination to the Town Council at Greenacre Centre, Valarian Way, Stotfold SG5 4HG New Councillor – Janice Bendall Hi. I’m Janice Bendell, and I recently joined the town council, after relocating to Stotfold with my husband, Pete, just over a year ago. I love how Stotfold has a strong sense of community, along with its vibrant array of shops and amenities, which is why I wanted to contribute to this town as a Councillor. Having retired from my full-time role at Hertfordshire County Council, I now spend two days a week looking after my 2-year-old granddaughter, who conveniently resides nearby. Additionally, we are blessed with four grandsons, aged between 6 and 16. In my leisure time, I volunteer at one of the Garden House Hospice Shops, enjoy trips to the theatre, sewing, reading, and eating out.

Residents Survey Have you had your say yet? Scan the QR code or pop into the Greenacre Centre for a paper copy of the survey to let us know how we’re doing and what we could be doing better. Forthcoming Meetings 6 December 2023 Full Council 13 December 2023 Recreation Grounds, Public Lands and Lighting 20 December 2023 Establishment NB – January’s Full Council meeting has been rescheduled for 31 January 2024. Christmas The Town Council offices will be closed from midday on Friday 22 December, reopening at 9am on Tuesday 2 January 2024. Stotfold Town Council would like to take this opportunity to wish all Stotfold residents a very Happy Christmas. To contact the Stotfold News Magazine please call 01462 731986

News from

the Mill.

Update from Stotfold Watermill

As I write this, the sun is shining, the trees are still (mostly) green and thoughts of thermal vests and extra layers are still something for the future – so its hard to believe we’re in November already, bonfire night has been and gone, and we’re rushing headlong towards Christmas! It’s been a busy few weeks up at the Mill, what with the Working Steam Weekend at the beginning of October, and the annual Hallowe’en Spooktacular at the end of it. On which subject, we’d like to say a huge thank you to all the amazing volunteers who helped out with the event this year, from the creative team backstage who planned the games to the fantastic crew who helped out on the day, running our spooky craft activities and games. The Mill is run entirely by volunteers, and without their help and support, we wouldn’t be able to run! And, of course, a massive thank you to all our visitors – all the hard work is worth it, when we see people having fun exploring the Mill and having so much fun.

Spooktacular fun at The Mill.

As always, we’d love to hear what you like (or even dislike!) about our events – if you have any thought or suggestions for how our events could be improved, please do let us know, either by email (enquiries@stotfoldmill.com) or via Facebook messenger (https://www.facebook.com/stotfoldmill).

Now that the Mill is closed for the season, there’s still plenty happening behind the scenes. Lots of maintenance work happens during the closed season, and we’re busy planning for the Steam Fair (11th and 12th May 2024). If you would be interested in helping out at the Mill, we would love to hear from you. Our Archive team are looking for new members at the moment, so if your interests are in history, documentation and research then do get in touch. We’re also looking for people to help manage our volunteers, so if admin is your thing, we’d love to chat.

Bright and sunny winter days are a perfect time to visit the Nature Reserve and enjoy the stunning colours of the changing season – but don’t forget that the Nature Reserve carpark will be closing at dusk. Check our social media for updated times - don’t get stuck in the carpark all night! All that remains for me to say is that the volunteers at Stotfold Mill would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to the Mill in 2024.

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Update from the

Need Project

Our latest facts & figures..

www.theneedproject.org

•830 parcels provided. •383 top-up-bags collected from our Pop-up sites •£57,780 -the estimated value of the food for the month of October. •£6,602.50 - the average monthly cost to run the charity (Rent, Insurance, Fuel, Van, Staff related expenses) •45 - the increase in food parcels delivered this month. •1,925 - the amount oi adults we have managed to nake a difference to this month with your help. •67 - the amount od pensioners we have helped. •1,523 - the number of children we have managed to help this month (figures above include our best before food.) It’s been another incredibly busy month. Some 830 families have had parcels and an additional 383 top up bags from our pop-up sites have been given out. It’s just incredible where the food comes from and so sad that the need grows month upon month, but we are so grateful for all the amazing help we get from our supporters. Our full report is open and available to anyone on our website – theneedproject.org/reports/. This will give you an idea of what we are involved in through our 7 outlets throughout central Bedfordshire. We continue to hand out “best before” food items which would otherwise go to landfill, which has to be good all round. We do this in Stotfold, Sandy and Shefford and it has proved very popular. We also pass food onto “feed up warm up” and KCC in Letchworth who minister to the homeless and those in food poverty in their area. We are already planning for Christmas by stockpiling food for our hampers which are delivered to clients who have been referred to us. We have no idea how many people will be referred to us, but we will try our best to meet all demands put before us with Gods help and favour.

Update on the new premises: We still require a property and are pushing every door and praying for the right outcome, as we only want to do what God requires of us. He has not

blessed us with all the favour we have had just to let it stop now. So, we meet every Wednesday to pray for guidance in how and what to pray for and for continued blessing. We also pray in our centre in Stotfold every morning for the project, our volunteers, and most definitely the people we serve.

What is next, who knows? Not me. We just trust in God and try to serve him in all we do and say, which for all of us is not easy. I do wish to thank everyone who is connected to the project, be it using it, praying for it, supporting it in any way and working for it, thank you so much. Bless you all and praise God always. Gordon

To contact the Stotfold News Magazine please call 01462 731986

December Fun Quiz In our December festive fun quiz, compiled and presented by Stotfold’s very own Brain of Britain, David Stedman, we are paying tribute to arguably Britain’s greatest novelist, CHARLES DICKENS, who wrote “A Christmas Carol”. The clues contained in each question or answer are words taken from the title of one of Dickens’s novels, or the forename and/or surname of one of the famous characters he created. (Answers on page 29 - no cheating!) 1 What was the regnal name of the last Czar of Russia and was also the name of a much loved saint who was the inspiration for Santa Claus? 2 Pictured below is a character in the

1960s musical film version of “Oliver Twist”. A historic city with the same name is in which European country? 3 Give the title of the British television crime series with the central characters of DCI Tom Barnaby and, later, DCI John Barnaby? 4 From 1911 until 1946, a British company called Rudge was well-known for its innovative production of what form of powered transport? 5 What is the nickname of the veteran English cricketer, umpire, journalist and commentator David Lloyd, which is also the name of a character once played on film by the star in the next question!? 6 “If I Ruled the World” is the best known song from a stage musical which opened during the 1960s with the much loved British star pictured above in the eponymous starring role. Give the title of this musical? 7 According to the Bible, which character was 500 years old when his sons Ham, Shem and Japeth were born and went on to live another 350 years after the cataclysmic event around which he is most famous? 8 The third longest river in the UK, it

flows through Stoke, Burton and Nottingham before joining the Humber. Which river? 9 What same six-letter word can precede ‘battleship’, ‘money’, ‘book’ and ‘knife’? 10 What film and television role has been played by Alastair Sim, George C. Scott, Albert Finney, Patrick Stewart and Christopher Plummer? 11 Give the famous stage names of the eccentric US singer, pictured right, who had a 1960s hit single with his version of “Tiptoe Through the Tulips”? 12 Curiosity is a car-sized rover launched by NASA in 2011 and is still exploring which planet of our solar system? 13 Paul is a British singer-songwriter, a member of The Jam and the Style Council before launching his long solo career. What is his surname? 14 In “Martin Chuzzlewit”, a character named Sarah Gamp is always carrying a protective implement, and “gamp” has become synonymous with this implement. What is it? 15 What are the stage names of the US illusionist, the most commercially successful magician in history, whose stunts have made the Statue of Liberty disappear? 16 Ray, nicknamed Butch, was a star midfield footballer who won 84 caps for England and was the first English player to be sent off during a World Cup match. What was his surname? 17 Take the name of the largest city in a certain Commonwealth country; add

the general name of a type of cardboard or plastic container, and you make the names of a central character in which Dickens novel? 18 Pictured right is the great reggae star Bob Marley. What was the name of his most famous backing group? 19 What is the surname of Richard, the controversial British evolutionary biologist and atheist whose books include “The Selfish Gene”, and “The God Delusion”? 20 What is the name of the British rock band, formed during the 1960s and still performing today, whose first album was entitled “Very ‘Eavy … Very ‘Umble”?

For more fascinating facts and to download and read my novels, completely free of charge, please visit my website at davidstedman.co.uk or Google david stedman author.

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To contact the Stotfold News Magazine please call 01462 731986

Stotfold Football Club The 1st team are currently in 10th place winning 1, drawing 1 and losing 1 of their league matches in October. The Development have lost some of their early season form drawing 1 and losing 2 of their league matches and going out of the Beds Senior Trophy at SSMFL Division 1 side Langford. They are currently in 3rd place.

The Women’s team are still hampered by injuries and unavailability, drawing one and losing one of their league matches. However they had success in cup matches winning 9-1 in the Beds Women’s Cup and 6-0 in the League Cup. They are currently in 8th place. The U18 team have won one and lost one of their league matches and are currently in 4th place. Fixtures:

Further fixtures will be updated on the website once they are received from the respective leagues. Come on you Eagles. Up the Fold. JSJ Stadium New Roker Park Arlesey Road Stotfold, SG5 4HE 01462 539297 www.stotfoldfc.co.uk Twitter @stotfoldfc Facebook @stotfoldfc https://www.sfc-theclubhouse.co.uk enquiries@sfc-theclubhouse.co.uk

ANSWERS to DECEMBER FUN QUIZ Page 28 . . .(did you look!!?)

1 NICHOLAS (Nicholas Nickleby); 2 France (Nancy in “Oliver Twist”); 3 “MIDSOMER MURDERS” (Barnaby Rudge); 4 Motorcycles (Barnaby Rudge); 5 BUMBLE (Mr. Bumble in “Oliver Twist”); 6 “PICKWICK” (starring Harry Secombe); 7 NOAH (Noah Claypole in “Oliver Twist”); 8 TRENT (Little Nell Trent in “The Old Curiosity Shop”); 9 POCKET (Herbert Pocket in “Great Expectations”); 10 EBENEZER SCROOGE (in “A Christmas Carol”); 11 TINY TIM (in “A Christmas Carol”); 12 Mars (“The Old Curiosity Shop”); 13 WELLER (Sam Weller in “The Pickwick Papers”); 14 Umbrella; 15 DAVID COPPERFIELD; 16 WILKINS (Wilkins Micawber in “David Copperfield”); 17 “A TALE OF TWO CITIES” (Sydney Carton); 18 The Wailers (Jacob Marley in “A Christmas Carol”); 19 DAWKINS (Jack Dawkins, the Artful Dodger in “Oliver Twist”); 20 URIAH HEEP (“David Copperfield”).

Conditions treated include spinal and extremity injuries, neck related headaches and sprains/strains.

We are NOW OPEN Our revised opening hours: Tues: 2pm-7pm Wed: 10am-7pm Thursday: 3pm-7pm Friday: 10am - 1pm Saturday: 10am-2pm

Update from the Stotfold Library Stotfold Library Opening Times Monday – Closed Tuesday – 9am-1pm Wednesday – 2pm-6pm Thursday – 9am-1pm Friday – 9am-1pm & 2pm-6pm Saturday – 9am-4pm Sunday – Closed

DECEMBER EVENT FOR ADULTS Every Friday~Knit and Knatter 10.30am-12pm ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN ~Every Tuesday (Except December 26th) Story and Rhyme Time 10.30am (for children 0-5) 27th-29th December and 3rd-5th January (Wednesdays/Fridays 2-5pm, Thursdays 9-12pm) Children’s crafts will be available from the Library! (recommended for children aged 2+) Every Saturday, 10am-12pm~ Pokémon Club! Come along to trade your own cards and play the trading game we have at the library! Beginners are welcome. (recommended aged 6+) Every Saturday 10-3pm~Lego Club! Come along to build with our Lego and Duplo and have a cuppa! Christmas Holidays Activities 23rd December – 6th January Story & Rhyme Time, Tuesday 2nd January 10.30am (recommended age 0-5) YOUR LOCAL Pokémon Club, Saturdays 10am-12pm (recommended for children ages 6+) Crafts, 27th-29th December and 3rd-5th January (Wednesdays and Fridays 25pm, Thursdays 9-12pm) (recommended for children aged 2+) Windows, frames, Lego Club, Saturdays 10-3pm (recommended for all ages!) sills, conservatorys, EVENTS FOR ALL THE FAMILY fascia & soffits. Every Monday~ *In partnership with the Children’s Centre* Stotfold Family LOCAL & RELIABLE * FREE quotations Drop-in, 9am-10.30am. For parents, carers, babies, and children. Support for all aspects of parenting.Self-weigh scales available. Call: 07949 853411 (recommended for families with children aged 0-12 years) One -off or regular 4/8/12 weekly cleans

WINDOW CLEANER

BAL & CO. MOTOR CARE CAR SALES -

Quality used cars & vans supplied. Excellent after sales care, our warrantees cover both parts & labour

MECHANICAL -

Motor vehicle servicing and general repair work undertaken, any make or model

WE BUY CLEAN, LOW MILEAGE CARS - PLEASE CALL US OR VISIT US FOR MORE DETAILS.

2 Arlesey Road, Stotfold, Hitchin, Herts SG5 4HA Formerly Cramps Garage Sales (01462) 732400 Services and Bodywork (01462) 731500 Email: stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk

Established 1971

Christmas cheers and challenges

Mental Health Matters- with Jo Loach

Winter is here as the clocks have gone back, the leaves have fallen and daylight hours have diminished. For those struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), these short days and lack of sunlight can be particularly challenging. Likewise, the recent resurge of Covid can leave many ill and isolated. But, December also brings the Christmas celebrations of parties, presents and pigs in blankets! All of which I am rather partial to. And this most magical season reminds us to collectively recommit to practising good will and care for each other. It is easy to get caught up in the frenzy of activity and gift giving at Christmas. This can be great fun especially where the emphasis is on creativity over blowing budgets. However, it is important for mental health that we equally balance time, care and attention for our own and other’s needs, especially if ill, alone or grieving the loss of loved ones. Here is a cheesy acronym to remind us of the bigger ongoing picture surrounding the celebrations of Christmas. W watch out for others especially if alone or unwell. I instigate contact if someone pops into your mind - drop them a message. N notice neighbours, speak to them to check in or drop off a card T telephone someone you haven’t spoken to in a while - make a difference E enjoy the wonders of winter colours and scenes by walking amidst nature R rest; it is all too easy to forget this essential part of Winter and Christmas The need to care for ourselves and each other is not just for Christmas, but is especially important throughout Winter.

Jo is a BACP Accredited Psychodynamic Counsellor and an Integrative Supervisor with an MA in Contemporary Therapeutic Counselling .

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Down Memory Lane

This picture was very kindly sent to us by Eileen Minnis - a former Stotfold resident of many years now living in Biggleswade (but still enjoying her Stotfold Magazine each month!) The picture dates back to 1952/53

The names of the girls can be found below: Eileen would dearly love to stay in contact with anyone in this picture if they would like to get in touch, we have Eileen’s contact details at the magazine and can put you in touch with her should anyone wish to do so. Names of the girls above: TOP ROW - Pam Shepard, Brenda Rowe, Marion Saunders, Mary Leonard, Betty Roberts, Helga Brown, Josie Clark, Barbara Cooper, Elsie Bacon.

NEXT ROW - June Bassam, Marion Smith, Gladys Wilshere, ?, Marion Wall, Anita Rowland, Megan Clark, Janet Wilshere, Lorna Johnson. NEXT ROW - Wendy Seaby, Maureen Jellis, Eileen Dear (Minnis) ?, Joyce West, Miss Beresford, Pam Clarke, Jill Larkins, Gill Patrick, Joyce Wilson

FRONT ROW - Sheila Garside, Cicely Castle, Rosie Dodson, Pam Childs, Barbara Brown, Angie Lincoln, Margaret Macdonald, Phylis Hartley. The two missing names I think could possibly be Janet Bircumshaw and Ann Warner although I am not 100% certain of those.

I would dearly love to keep in touch with any of the ladies pictured here and would love to hear from you all. Eileen Minnis (nee Dear)

Useful

Telephone Numbers

General Helplines: Citizen’s Advice Bureau Trading Standards Advice Line Samaritans Births, Deaths & Marriages Stotfold Good Neighbour Group Churches Hope Chapel King’s Baptist Church Methodist Church Salvation Army Hall Ladies Fellowship St Mary’s Church St Mary's Church Hall Friends of St Mary’s Fairfield Community Church Local Council Stotfold Town Council

Email:enquiries@stotfoldtowncouncil.gov.uk

Central Bedfordshire Council

01525 402742 0300 300 8136 01462 455333 0300 300 8089 07599 925587 01462 686803 01462 730521 01462 731167 01462 731072 01462 731072 01462 730218 07727 688877 01462 834108 07376 740410 01462 730064 0300 300 8000

Email:customer.services@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

Doctor Larksfield Surgery Appointments Enquiries Out of Hours Service: Arlesey Medical Centre Household Emergencies Electricity Emergencies Gas Emergencies Housing First Garden City Homes Grand Union Housing - all enquiries Cafe Box of Cakes Cafe & Cake Shop

North Herts Road Runners

01462 732244 01462 732200 Call 111 01462 732144 0800 783 8838 0800 111999 01462 683307 0300 123 5544 07812 055587

The next 1st of the month will be the Santa Canta 5k on 2nd Dec at Letchworth Common at 9am. Dress up in your santa outfits for the festive season. Free entry and open to everyone. We continue our training sessions with qualified coaches on Tues & Thurs evenings at 7pm. These are open to all, why not come along for a taster session with no obligation. Contact Ian on 07506429928 or nhrr.org.uk for all our details

Health/Social Helplines Childline National Menengitis Trust Samaritans NSPCC Hospitals Bedford Hospital Lister Hospital NHS Direct Library Stotfold Library Arlesey Resource Centre & Library Police Beds Police (Crime reporting) Crimestoppers Pubs Coach & Horses Fox & Duck The Crown The Stag Tavern Transport Trains (National Enquiries) Whitbread Wanderbus Schools Etonbury Academy Pix Brook Academy Fairfield Park Lower School Roecroft Lower School St Mary’s Academy Samuel Whitbread Academy Nurseries Pippin Pre-School Poppies Nursery Poppyfields Nursery Busy Bees Taxi Service Greenacre Transfers Airports & Chauffeur Services www.greenacretransfers.co.uk

0800 1111 0845 6000800 08457 909090 0800 800 5000 01234 355122 01438 314333 0845 46 47 0300 300 8068 01462 731469. 01234 841212 0800 555111 01462 734135 01462 732434 01462 731061 01462 731098 08457 484950 0300 123 3023 01462 730391 01462 416243 01462 830000 01462 730336 01462 730343 01462 629900 01462 834897 07833 927906 01462 830008 01462 734306 07555 70 78 48

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