Beds Local Winter 2014 by BedsLocal

MERRY CHRISTMAUSR TO ALL O S READER

20,000

FREE COPY

Issue 21 December 2014

copies delivered to Bedford and the surrounding villages

In this issue Bedford’s Christmas Fair.....................4

Wooley’s – Dating before Divorce.... 44

Council News.......................................6

Brickhill Book Bug review................. 47

Consumer – Expenses........................8

Kids Page............................................48

Keeping it Real.................................. 10

Street Angels.......................................49

Alistair Burt – Football....................... 12

Game on........................................... 52

Royal Rich Foods competition.......... 18

Gearing up for Winter....................... 54

How to choose at Christmas............ 22

Bedford Blues................................... 57

Recipe – Coquille St Jacques.......... 25

Sports and Social Clubs................... 58

Bedford’s Forgotten Polar Connection............................... 26

Bedford Town FC.............................. 59

What’s on.......................................... 32 Prize Crossword................................ 38

Directory........................................... 60 Cinema Competition......................... 62

Bartletts – Fireblight.......................... 40

Read us online at www.bedslocalmag.co.uk or Editorial

Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Susan Brookes-Morris, Alistair Burt, Bartlett Trees, Tamara Glanville, Louise Addison, Sarah Davey, Jeannine Carroll, Bedford Borough Council, Ann Collett-White.

Editorial Director

Front Cover Image 123rf.com

Sue Metcalf 01234 708941 sue@bedslocalmag.co.uk

Advertising Director

Christa Hallam Tel: 07827 015170 christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk

Beds Local Magazine Design and Artwork

Doug Dawson Creative Ltd www.dougdawson.co.uk

Publishing and Marketing Local Media Publishing Ltd Tel: 01234 708941 20,000 copies delivered to the following areas:

Biddenham, Brickhill, Bromham, Cardington, Castle Road (Shops), Clapham, Cople, Cranbourne Gardens, Goldington, Great Barford, Great Denham, Kempston, Kempston West End, Milton Ernest, Oakley, Pavenham, Putnoe, Stagsden, Stevington, Willington and Wootton. (We also have over 150 distribution points, including pubs, garages, most shops, post offices and Superstores)

Disclaimer All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Local Media Publishing Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of the publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

Bedford’s Christmas Fair December 12th – 14th

Once again the Christmas Fair will be on Harpur Square, Friday 12th December until Sunday 14th December. Aside from the shopping there is plenty for the family to see and do. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of a traditional Christmas with stalls throughout the heart of the town centre selling an array of seasonal gifts, foods and treats. It’s the ideal place to pick up those extra special gifts for Christmas! Bring the kids along to climb the traditional helter skelter, ride the carousel, sway on the 4

swing boats and watch the fantastic steam engine. Dont forget to take a break from the winter’s chill and visit the indoor Tea Room in the Harpur Suite, filled with more stalls and crafts! Throughout the three days there is a variety of seasonal street entertainment, music and shows, filled with crazy characters who you may meet during the weekend. Some amaze; some inspire but either way, the Bedford Christmas Fair is the ideal way to get you and your family into the Christmas spirit...

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk

Y COMMUNIT

Council News FREE FLU VACCINATIONS FOR BEDFORDSHIRE RESIDENTS WITH LONG-TERM HEALTH CONDITIONS recommend that others have theirs. It is really important that people have a flu vaccination to protect both themselves and others. Flu can make you very ill and it can lead onto more serious conditions and in some cases can even result in death. I have never had an after-effect from the vaccine.” “Getting a flu jab is probably the most important thing someone with a longer-term health condition can do to stay healthy this winter,” said Bedfordshire GP Dr Fran Ross. Local Councils and health care providers are this month urging people with long-term health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory conditions and asthma to get a free flu vaccination.

People with diabetes, heart, respiratory or liver disease, Parkinson’s or motor neurone disease, or weakened immune systems are more likely to develop potentially serious complications if they catch flu and are eligible for a free flu jab.

Last year there were over 1,500 hospital admissions related to flu in Bedfordshire and in 421 cases flu made other health conditions worse. As many as 278 people across the county died from flu-related illness.

Free vaccinations are also available to anyone over the age of 65; young children aged two to four, pregnant women and carers.

Cllr Colleen Atkins, Executive Member for Adults’ Services and Community Wellbeing at Bedford Borough Council said: “I have my flu jab every year and I thoroughly

It is important to have a vaccination every winter as the virus is constantly changing. Anyone in doubt about whether they qualify for a free vaccination should contact their GP. Family members of at risk groups are also urged to talk to their GP or local pharmacy about getting vaccinated.

COMMUNITY

ALLHALLOWS SHOP REFURB UNDERWAY The next stages of the multi-million pound project to create a new Bus Station for Bedford are now underway with works commencing on 14-28 Allhallows, the parade of shops which back on to the bus station building. The improvement works include: re-roofing, new shop fronts, windows and cladding panels and external improvements including a refurbishment of the canopy, all of which will help to integrate the shop parade with the new bus station buildings. In addition, the final construction phase of the new bus station is well underway. Work will continue throughout the winter months with the new Bus Station and Travel and Tourism Centre set to be officially opened in February. Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: “We have needed a regenerated bus station area for decades and the upgrading of the shops

fronting onto Allhallows is the latest feature of the radical improvements which are now taking place. The work continues the modernisation and enhancement of the area, making it more attractive for local residents and businesses alike.” The regeneration project has already delivered a series of improvements in the bus station area, including the popular Greyfriars new surface car park, the refurbished and newly-clad Allhallows multi-storey car park, new toilets and more. Improvements to the public realm areas in Greenhill and Thurlow Street are also underway. These include new paving, landscaping, street furniture and underground recycling bins. The webcam showing up-to-the-minute progress of the construction of the new bus station is still live via www.bedford.gov.uk/busstation

MERMAIDS, ROSES, CAMELS & COWS: Wallpaper by Edward Bawden Saturday 8th November 2014 – Sunday 29th March 2015 Wallpaper Exhibition at The Higgins Bedford Free Entry Mermaids, Roses, Camels and Cows: Wallpaper by Edward Bawden, is a new exhibition at The Higgins Bedford which showcases the ‘enchantingly personal and offbeat’ wallpaper designs produced by Bawden throughout his career. Many of the designs are still in demand today.

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk

M CONSU

Claiming Compensation & Out of Pocket Expenses I HATE compensation! There, I said it! I hate it! In fact, I have made it my mission during the last 13 years I’ve been presenting a consumer show on the radio to put people off making such claims. If this shocks you then, please read this article through to the end and you may understand my thinking. To me compensation in its real sense it’s when people look for a financial payment even though they have not financially suffered. For example; you buy a sandwich from the supermarket, get home and find a plaster in it. Most of us would simply take the sandwich back and expect not only a heartfelt apology for the mistake, but also a replacement sandwich. There are however, an increasing number of people who would also want the supermarket to PAY them an amount of money for ‘emotional stress’. What a load of old greedy codswallop! Why am I so against compensation? Well it’s really very easy, it ends up costing everyone else money. Every time someone receives a compensation pay-out, somebody else has to pay for it - normally other customers. It’s not free money! If a company has to pay £2 million pounds a year in compensation claims, then it will charge its other customers £2 million pounds to recoup the costs. Sadly, loads of people are after it now. I get lots of calls every week from people saying ‘can JVS help me get compensation out of such and such’? Thankfully my team know my feelings and these callers rarely get on air. You only have to observe the increase in the ‘no win no fee’ solicitors and those ghastly adverts that start with ‘Have YOU had an accident’? to see what a thriving business claiming compensation is. Sadly I think it will only get 8

worse and before you know it, everyone will be suing everyone else for each simple mistake made in life. Incidentally, many of the ‘no win no fee’ solicitors charge an absolute fortune for the service they have provided you with in the event of a successful claim. You should always read the small print and understand exactly what you’re getting involved in before you sign a contract with them. A successful pay-out of £1000 doesn’t seem so good when the solicitor takes £800 and you find you’re liable for other charges. So what SHOULD you claim for? Out of pocket expenses are in my opinion totally justifiable. But what’s the difference between out of pocket expenses and compensation? It’s very simple - when a company makes a mistake which has a detrimental effect on you financially, I think it’s reasonable for them to pay for this. For example if you have to pay £20 for phone calls to a company to deal with a problem they have caused you, it is in my opinion totally reasonable to ask the company to reimburse you the cost. If I was having a new boiler installed and the plumber dropped a spanner on my tiled kitchen floor, then I would expect him to pay for the cost of replacing the tiles. To me this is obvious and utterly understandable. Most importantly a judge would probably feel the same if it went as far as court. Why is it important that we understand the difference between compensation and out of pocket expenses though? I’ll tell you why, because using the word ‘compensation’ very often antagonises companies. They have a keen radar waiting to sniff out greedy little consumers desperate to make a quick buck and are often quick to dismiss such claims even though there may be a justifiable complaint. My advice is to always ensure that you are only claiming for reimbursement of costs rather than looking to make a profit out of a problem and ALWAYS use the phrase ‘out of pocket expenses’ rather than the dreaded C word!

Jonathan Vernon-Smith not only offers you his consumer advice here but you can listen to The JVS Show tackling your consumer problems every weekday morning from 9am.

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk

KEEPING IT REAL! I live in a house that is divided. My husband loves real Christmas trees but in recent years I’ve talked him around to the artificial option, believing – incorrectly as it turns out – that a reusable tree is better for the planet than one that is chopped down and discarded after a few weeks.

Most artificial trees are made from PVC – one of the most non-renewable, polluting, unrecyclable materials around - and consequently their carbon footprint is ten times greater than that of real ones. Shocked into realising that my fake tree is not the morally correct choice I thought, I’m now keen to join the six million Brits who opt for a real tree at Christmas. Christmas trees spring up all over the place from late November and the quality varies greatly. Before you make your choice, do a bit of fact finding about its freshness. Ask where it was grown (UK produced trees are likely to be fresher), how long it has been in stock and when it was cut. You can carry out a couple of tests yourself. Give the tree a firm tap on the ground or run a closed hand over its branches. If lots of needles fall off, chances are it’s not that fresh. You can also try bending the outer branches. They should be pliable - not brittle and dry – without discoloration. 10

Before leaving to make your purchase, measure the height and width of your space and take a tape measure with you to check your tree. Most are trimmed to an 80% taper, which means that a 10 foot tall tree will measure 8 feet at the bottom. You should also consider how you plan on decorating your tree. The three main species – spruce, fir and pine – all have their own characteristics. Spruces and firs have short needles whilst a pine’s are long. Pine branches tend to bend, making them unsuitable for heavier ornaments. Firs have lush branches and ornaments sometimes get lost in them. The traditional British Christmas tree, the Norway spruce, is attractive but tends to drop its needles. An alternative is a “non-drop” variety like the popular Nordmann fir, which will last longer but is more expensive. To care for your tree, cut off half an inch from the base of the trunk and place in a water-holding stand. Position the tree away from sources of heat and keep it topped up with fresh water. At present, 90% of real trees end up in landfill, so after Christmas is over try and recycle! By turning your tree into wood chippings or compost you will continue to do your bit for the environment. Hopefully with this guide choosing the family tree will be a holiday highlight, not a headache! By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 11

MP COLUMN

Christmas football For a certain generation, with rather fewer forms of entertainment easily available, Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year was all about football. If memory serves me right, ‘derby’ games between local rivals were staged, as a rash of games took place over the holiday period, and players and fans had limited time to travel between them. Back to back fixtures were not uncommon, as games were played on Christmas Day and Boxing Day often between the same teams, home and away.

The Thiepval Memorial in the Somme region

For a small boy growing up in football’s North West heartlands, this was bliss. There was plenty of choice, and following Bury away to a neighbouring ground was a bit of a novelty. Leaving poor Mum at home - though probably relieved to get us out of the house - having time with my Dad, trying to look very grown up in a new coat, admiring the latest sheepskins all around us, and coughing at the cigar smoke, Christmas time football is ingrained on the memory.

those on both sides for a moment stepped out of a hell which was not of their own making to spend time with those like themselves and recapture something of a world which must have seen very far away. It is testimony to the power of the game that we remember the symbolism of those football matches more than anything else. It is unbearably sad that such cheerful soccer rivalry would be so quickly subsumed into the horrors of the conflict in which they were engaged.

This Christmas I think we are likely to hear a lot about a particular football game. Even if the modern image of the game leaves you cold, the story of how World War One came to a halt during a series of unofficial truces at Christmas 1914 allowing a number of games of football to be played is deeply moving. Whilst not every part of the front was quiet, there is sufficient evidence to give real credibility to isolated games being played between soldiers within their own armies, and on some occasions, between opposing armies.

There was more to that first Christmas in the trenches. Soldiers met to sing carols together, and share some of the Christmas gifts from home. I suspect that those from Bedfordshire would have thought dearly of the very villages and churches which delight our own landscape, remembering the layout of houses and paths still highly traceable today. It will be right to remember them this Christmastide, confident that a time of peace, closeness to loved ones and reflection on what their sacrifice of life has given, would be what they would wish for us.

I doubt if the detail is the point. The most important, and poignant realisation, is that 12

Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

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WIN

a 5kg Free Range British Bronze Turkey (serves 7-9)

Royal Rich Foods are are back with a fantastic Christmas giveaway competition! To be in with a chance of winning a large Family sized Free Range Turkey email your name, address and contact details to sales@royalrichfoods.co.uk by Monday 15th December to be in with a chance. Visit our website royalrichfoods.co.uk for a full range of top quality British meat produce at unbeatable prices. Variety of Christmas Hampers available from our website from as little as ÂŁ37.50 delivered fresh to your door.

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Pre-party Pamper Facial (microdermabrasion, light therapy and hydro mask) £30 Perfect for dry/dehydrated skin and for those wanting glowing skin for a special occasion CACI Non Surgical Facelift- £40 Course of 6- £200, Course of 12- £360 An advanced, non invasive facial delivering visible results without surgery. Tiny electrical impulses lift and tone the facial muscles, whilst improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Ultimate Eye treatment- £35 Includes microcurrent, crystal free microdermabrasion and LED light therapy. This treatment will lift and tone the muscles, hydrate and plump fine lines as well as reducing puffiness and dark circles Shellac Hands and Feet- £30 (add £10 for Spray Tan) Lash Perfect full set of Lash Extensions- £50 (includes first top up)

Gift vouchers available to purchase online at www.keepbeautiful.co.uk

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women of all ages and level of ability, our friendly experienced staff are always more than happy to help, our video gait analysis is one example of this. Committed to holding an impressive range of stock from all the major brands across Running, Rugby, Cricket, Hockey, Football, Racket Sports & Swimming, we are confident you will find what you are looking for. Come visit us today and see our new spacious store with ample free parking!

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How to Choose a Turkey, Duck or Goose comes from younger animals that are subject to greater welfare standards. Of course prices will also reflect this so battery-reared birds will be much cheaper than those which have been subject to a mainly organic diet and free-roaming. Look for birds with unblemished skin, and if buying fresh check whether they will be dressed or whether you will need to do additional preparation. We all want our Christmas dinner to be special and a meal to remember for the right reasons! So how can you make sure that your bird is the best choice? First take the time to buy your meat from a source you trust. You might prefer a trusted butcher, farm shop or mail order company. Knowing how your meat has been reared and where it came from can help you determine the likely quality of the meat. Usually higher quality

Consider carefully the size of the bird you require. General recommendations allow around half a pound or 225 g per person for boneless meat and three quarters of a pound or 340g per person for meat with a bone in. Of course appetites vary and you may want to buy larger deliberately, in order to have enough for leftovers. Choose well and enjoy your Christmas Dinner! By Susan Brookes-Morris

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                        

   To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 25

EDFORD FORGOTTEN POLAR CONNECTION! 1908 he had an accident while loading the ship. A loading hook swung into his face and ripped out his right eye. He was sent back to New Zealand to recuperate and only rejoined the expedition in 1909 just before it ended. On his return however he had a further brush with fate, for when the Nimrod got stranded in the ice 25 miles from base, Mackintosh decided that he would walk across the ice with three sailors, to reach the huts. With the poor weather conditions, the sea ice melting around them and snow blindness, it was acknowledged by the leaders of the expedition that the group were fortunate to survive.

Aeneas L. A. Mackintosh. Annie Mackintosh and her six children Aeneas, Isobel, George, Alexander, Berkeley and Eric arrived in Bedford from India in 1891. Bedford was almost certainly chosen because of the outstanding reputation of the two boys schools. Aeneas and his brothers all attended Bedford Modern School , he was there from January 1891 to 1894, when he left to join the Merchant Navy, (P & O Line). The family lived first at St.Leonards Avenue but by 1894 they had moved to 29, Clarendon Street. While with P.O., Aeneas was given permission to become Second Officer on Ernest Shackletonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1907 Nimrod Expedition to the South Pole, and it was in the Antarctic that in January 26

Arriving back in England in June 1909 he was discharged from the Merchant Navy due to his sight problems . He was offered a position on an expedition to be led by Douglas Mawson but this never materialized and subsequently Aeneas took himself to the Cocos Islands on a gold prospecting trip, returning empty handed. He then became Assistant Secretary of the Merchant Navy Guild in Liverpool. Mackintosh came back to Bedford in February 1912 when at Trinity Church in Bromham Road , he married Gladys Campbell the daughter of a retired Army Colonel, who lived at Linden House, 65, Bromham Road. The couple settled in Liverpool, where their first daughter Pamela Aileen was born on 25th. October 1912. Aeneas could not however adjust to the mundane life of office based work and hankered to go exploring again.

D’S

Early In 1914, having been invited by Shackleton to join his proposed Trans Antarctic Expedition and become leader of the Ross Sea Advance Party , Aeneas rented a new house in Beverley Crescent for him and his wife so that she could be close to her relatives while he was away. He sailed from London in August 1914 just four months before his second daughter Gladys Elisabeth was born in Bedford. Having reached the Antarctic, Mackintosh took control of what was an essential part of the expedition, its job was to lay supply depots along the expedition route. He was immediately faced with enormous difficulties and confused and vague instructions left him uncertain as to the timing and even the route of Shackleton’s intended march. These problems were compounded when their ship the Aurora was swept from its winter moorings during a gale and was unable to return leaving ten men stranded on the ice for what could have been up to two years. Despite this loss of equipment, supplies and personnel, Mackintosh and his group still managed to complete the depot laying. On finishing the work and after their rescue, he and a companion attempted to return to the expedition base camp on foot by crossing the unstable ice. They disappeared and are assumed to have fallen through the ice with the date of death being given as 9th.May 1916. The whole venture was to prove totally worthless however as the planned Trans Antarctic March never in fact took place due to Shackleton’s ship the Endurance being crushed in the ice.

Mackintosh’s widow remained at Beverley Crescent until 1918 when she moved in with her siblings in Bromham Road. She stayed there until 1923 when she re married Captain Joseph Russell Stenhouse, who had been Mackintosh’s Second in Command on the Aurora. Interestingly the eldest daughter of Aeneas and Gladys – Pamela returned to Bedford in June 1941 for her own wedding at St. Paul’s Church. Aeneas’s mother Annie remained in Bedford at Clarendon Street until 1903, then Campbell Road and finally Foster Hill Road before leaving the town for Sussex in 1911. Further reading: Shackleton’s Forgotten Men by Lennard Bickel , Pimlico The Lost Men by Kelly Tyler-Lewis, Bloomsbury Shackleton’s Lieutenant Edited by Stanley Newman Polar Publications.

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Merry

Christmas

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EVENTS

December

1 December The Cambridgeshire on the Western Front 7pm for 7.30pm The Comrades Club, Godmanchester The Cambridgeshire branch of the Western Front Association is pleased to present a talk by Steve Smith examining the role of the Cambridgeshire regiment on the Western Front. Non-members most welcome. www.westernfrontassociation.com

1 December Alma Singers Concert 7.30pm Tickets £5 Elstow Abbey Church The Alma Singers present a concert of seasonal songs and music. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served during the interval. Tickets available from Elstow Abbey Church 01234 261477 or Choir members 01767 640515. 2 December Bedford Floral Art Society 7.30pm Addison Centre, Kempston Members free, Non-members £5 Gill McGregor presents ‘Christmas Sparkle’. Raffle of arrangements. Plant stall with seasonal foliage. Everyone welcome www.bedfordfloralartsociety.co.uk 3 December Social Afternoon with Billy Keyes 2-4.30pm Addison Centre, Kempston Tickets £6 Tel: 01234 340997 3-7 December Christmas Tree Festival Wed-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 2-5pm St Paul’s Church, Bedford, MK40 1SQ Admission £2.50, Children free Over 60 trees will be decorated to the theme ‘Friendship thru Sport’. Includes two Trees of Remembrance. Proceeds shared between St Paul’s and the Bedford Hospitals Charity. This must see annual festival has raised over £100,000 since 2001. Refreshments served. Tel: 01234 340163 for further details

2014

Please send your What’s On entries to whatson@bedslocalmag.co.uk by the 10th of the month previous to publication

4 December Bedford Songwriters’ Circle 8pm Holy Moly’s, Bedford Esquires Admission £3 The first Thursday of every month sees some of the region’s finest perform a selection of songs: something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and something else. Playing this month are: Jess Morgan, Luke Tuchscherer (the Whybirds), Steve Woodward and Sunsinger (aka Simon Gutteridge). Facebook: ‘Bedford Songwriters Circle’ 5 December Widdershins Puppet Theatre 6pm Stagsden Village Hall Adults £8, Concessions & under 16s £6, Family (2a + 2 c) £24 Stagsden Village Hall presents Widdershins Puppet Theatre ‘The Magic Porridge Pot’. A trio of traditional tales with Widdershins’ trademark ingredients of Puppets, Pop-up Sets and original music. A prelude to Christmas for all the family. Tel: Sheila Thompson 01234 824477 or 40 Bedford Road, Stagsden. 5 December Bedfordshire Family History Society 7.15pm Mark Rutherford School Drama Hall, Bedford, MK42 9RX Members free, Visitors £2 Illustrated talk is “Behind The Scenes Of ‘Who Do You Think You Are’ TV Programme” by Dr .Nick Barratt. Bedfordshire Family History Society welcomes new members to its talks. Library and bookstall are available at meetings. Next meeting will be 9 January 2015. Web: www.bfhs.org.uk 5 December ‘Classics at Christmas’ Concert 7.30pm St Paul’s Church, Bedford Tickets £15 including glass of wine As part of the Christmas Tree Festival, once again The Ensemble of London will be presenting a ‘Classics at Christmas’ Concert at St Paul’s Church. Tickets available by

telephone or online. Tel: Tickets 01234 783181 or St. Paul’s Church 01234 34016 www.bedfordhospitalcharity.org.uk 6 December The Signals Museum 10am-4pm The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID such as a driving licence, passport or over 60s Bus Pass is required to get an entry permit from the Guardroom. See website for full information. www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 6 December Christmas Craft Fayre 11am-2pm Alban Academy, Silver Street, Great Barford Free admission A mixture of local craft traders and stalls run by the school to raise funds towards the new school minibus. School stalls will include raffle, tombolas, cake stall and refreshments. 6 December Ravensden Christmas Fayre 11am-2pm Ravensden Village Hall, Church End Ravensden Bedford Free admission Super Santa Grotto with Father Christmas £4.00 per child, Parents free and welcome to take photos. All the usual stalls including books, toys, tombola, raffle, competitions. Refreshments: The WI are doing what they do best! Delicious cakes, soups, hot and cold drinks. Come and join us as we celebrate Christmas 2014. Ample parking. Wheelchair access. 6 December Christmas ‘Narnia’ Fair 12-3pm Riseley Lower School Themed stalls, games, hot food, refreshments and entertainment. 6 December Hazeldene Lower School Christmas Fayre 1.30-4.00pm Hazeldene Lower School, Stancliffe Road, Bedford Adults 50p, Children free Spread some Christmas cheer with a glass of mulled wine and a mince

EVENTS pie at the Hazeldene Lower School Christmas Fayre. Lots of games and activities for children of all ages, meet the big man himself in his glistening grotto, the chance to win big in our Christmas Raffle plus get a few more Christmas pressies ticked off the list from a selection of gift and craft stalls. White on Blue Photography will also be setting up their festive pop-up studio, giving families the chance to have professional photos taken which can then be turned into prints and a wide range of personalised gifts with delivery in time for Christmas. All welcome. Entrance via Stancliffe Road entrance. Web: www.hazeldeneschool.co.uk for more information 7 December Bedford Crafts, Produce & A Cuppa! 9am-2pm Church Lane Community Centre, Church Lane, Bedford First Saturday of the month. 7 December Lights of Love Service 4pm/6.30pm Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger Annual Lights of Love service to celebrate the lives of those near and dear to us that we have lost. It is an opportunity to remember loved ones at either a 4pm or 6.30pm carol service at the hospice. There will be a Christmas remembrance tree with the opportunity to fill out a memory bauble in their name which can be then hung on the tree. Please let the hospice know if you would like to attend by Friday 28 November for light refreshment catering. This is an outside event so wrap up warm and bring your wellies! Tel: 01767 642424 Christmas Fayre at Scott Lower School Sunday 7th December 2014 1pm – 3.30pm. Entrance 50p -Under 15’s are free. Lots do see and do including: Games, Gift stalls, Tombola, Cake stall, Glitter Tattoo’s, Face Painting, Adopt a Teddy, Raffle, Santa’s Grotto! Plus we even have a very special visit from Elsa and Anna all the way from Arendelle! Scott Lower School, Hawk Drive, Bedford, MK41 7JA 8, 15, 22 & 29 December Adults Social Ballroom Class 7.30pm The Court 281-285 Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8QB Come long and try out our unique type of social class for beginners

and improvers. You will enjoy the difference. Tel: 07785 992246 www.thecourtschoolofdancing.co.uk 10 December Bedford Local Group of the Wildlife Trust 7.30pm Priory Park Visitor Centre, Barkers Lane, Bedford No charge – voluntary contributions appreciated An Illustrated talk by Marion Hession entitled ‘Wild about Cuba’. All welcome. Tel: 01234 266057 Web: www.wildlifebcn.org see’Events’ 11 December Mid. Beds. Floral Society 7.45pm Flitwick Village Hall Visitors £5 AGM. Christmas practical workshop and buffet. Visitors welcome. Tel: Marion Tucker 01234 742396 for more details and to book 12 December 25th Annual Christmas Cracker Concert 7.30pm Bedford Corn Exchange Adults £8, Concessions £6, Children £3 Concert with Bedford Hospital Choir and Bedford Brass. The evening will include traditional community carols, concert renditions of Christmas music both old and new, and the ever popular festive sing-along. An evening guaranteed to put you into the Christmas spirit. Proceeds in aid of the Friends of Bedford Hospital’s Dementia Support Project. Tel: Central Box Office 01234 718112 Email: HospitalChoir@aol.com 13 December Willington Village Market 10am-12 noon Willington Village Hall Come and buy fresh and local Plants, vegetables and fruit. Homemade cakes, bread, preserves and crafts. Fairtrade stall. Southall butchers. Refreshments. Tel: Julia Buckroyd 01234 831316 13 December Bedford Gallery Quire 7.30pm All Saints Church, Great Barford Tickets £8 including light refreshments Christmas Concert and readings from the West Gallery Period. Tickets Ann Lovesey 01234 870693 Web: www.bedfordgalleryquire.org. uk for more information

13 December Christmas Concert 7.30pm Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford Adults £7.50, Children £3 Kempston Musical Society with Castle Lower School Choir Christmas Concert with seasonal refreshments. 18 December Fundraising Christmas Tea Dance 2-4.30pm Addison Centre, Kempston £2.50 including refreshments. Tel: 01234 340997 21 December Biggleswade Antiques Fair 9.30am-4pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Admission £1.50 This antiques fair offers a diverse range of antiques and collectables so whether you are a professional dealer, an avid collector or just looking for something special, this monthly fair is the place to visit. Café serving breakfast, lunches and afternoon tea. Tel: 01480 382432 or 07906 647346 Web: www.madisonevents.co.uk 23 December Christmas Carol Service 3pm The Bistro, Emmaus Village, Carlton Web: www.emmaus.org.uk/village_ carlton 12 January Dancing Stars Beginners Class 7.30-8.30pm Priory Methodist Church, Newham Avenue, Bedford New Total Beginners Classes starts 12th January 2015. May continue later if good turn out. Tel: Stephen 07969 847553 Web Site http://dancingstars.comuf. com/ 15 January Dancing Stars Classes Kempston Hammers Club, High Street, Kempston New Total Beginners Class 6.457.45pm. Improvers and Intermediates 7.45-10pm. Tel: Stephen 07969 847553 Web Site http://dancingstars.comuf. com/ 15 January Song Recital 7.45pm Bunyan Meeting Adults £18, Concessions S16, Students (18-25) £5, Under 18 £2 With Carolyn Sampson (soprano) and Matthew Wadsworth (lute). Web: www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk

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BROMHAM PAINTING & DECORATING

& HOME IMPROVEMENTS FULL PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FULLY INSURED FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATIONS ON REQUEST CONTACT US ON 01234 822651 07748 032051

New boilers supplied and fitted from £995 Combi heating system supplied and fitted from £2495 Landlord certificates from £35.00

Bedford

Boiler installation

Power flushing, maintenance, repairs, diagnostics All gas related works considered No vat, you can buy we can fit Locally based Tel 01234 855505/07957 430771 Gas safe registered engineer number 144124

QUALITY CARPETS SUPPLIED AND FITTED Also all types of vinyls and safety flooring at discount prices.

Plus 10% Extra Discount with production of this advert.

Showroom 29, St Cuthberts Street, Bedford. Telephone 01234 351916 Email gbcarpets@tiscali.co.uk

www.gbcarpetsandflooring.co.uk

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Window Repair Geeks The window and door repair service

Steamed-up Windows - Broken Hinges - Handles - Locks Our glass comes with a 10 year guarantee SAMPLE PRICE LIST (INC FITTING & VAT): • Steamed up Windows from £30 • Replacement Handles from £35 • Replacement Hinges from £55 • Replacement Locking Systems from £60 • Anti-bump/anti-snap Security Locks from £69.95

NO MIN IM CHARG UM E NO CAL L CHARGOUT E

For a FREE SURVEY call 01234 604084 or email rick@windowrepairgeeks.co.uk See clearer, feel warmer, get better protected 36

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Prize crossword

ÂŁ25 Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before 10th December 2014. Prize Crossword, Beds Local, 6 Brooklands Road, Riseley, Bedford, MK44 1EE Across 1 Traditional Festive drink - rum _____ (5) 3 Striped confectionary - _____ canes (5) 6 Mary gave _____ in a stable (5) 7 Festive colour (3) 8 Given by 12 down (4) 10 Christmas lunch - _____ turkey (5) 12 Down came to _______ the baby (7)

Name:

14 City where King Herod lived (9) 16 Also given by 12 Down (5) 17 Christmas trees are usually this type (3) 18 Mary was told her ____ would be the son of God (4) 19 Christmas Carol - The First ____ (4) 20 Christmas Carol - Oh ____ Night (4) Down 1 US festive treat Pumpkin ___ (3)

2 Christmas song - When a _____ is Born (5) 3 25th December! (9,3) 4 ____ log (4) 5 12 Down followed a ____ (4) 9 The ____ sent an angel to Mary (4) 11 Might be cranberry or bread (5) 12 There were three of them (4,3) 13 Fortified ____, drunk after dinner (4) 15 Greeting - _____ Christmas! (5)

Tel:

Address: Last months winner was Mrs Pearson of Bedford 38

GARDENING

Fireblight

Fireblight is a bacterial disease of many UK tree and shrub species such as pear, crabapple, cotoneaster, rowan, hawthorn, pyracantha, spirea and rose. Depending on plant species, cultural practices and spring weather conditions, damage can range from death of one or more branches to severe branch mortality to tree death. The disease is most severe during warm, moist springs and on poorly drained sites. Young, vigorous plants, or those heavily fertilized with nitrogen, are usually most severely affected. SYMPTOMS The most characteristic and easily observed symptoms are wilting and blackening or browning of the blossoms and leaves on the terminal shoots. The affected plant parts remain attached to the shoot terminal and appear as if they have been scorched by fire.

CONTROL Many species and varieties of crabapple, cotoneaster apple, pyracantha, etc. are resistant to fireblight and should be used in landscape plantings when possible. Lists of such resistant varieties are available from the Bartlett Tree Research Laboratory. Control of fireblight on susceptible plants is difficult and requires a comprehensive program of sanitation, correct cultural practices, and liquid copper spray applications in order that satisfactory results are attained. Application of liquid copper oxychloride sprays in September, October and November are strongly recommended.

For more advice visit: www.bartlett.com or contact Bartlett Tree Experts on 01234 354 673 Visit us on Facebook at Bartlett Tree Experts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bedford UK 40

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Dating Before Divorce Sexist or Practical? Tamara Glanvill, Solicitor at Woolley & Co, Bedford www.family-lawfirm.co.uk A High Court judge has warned against having a relationship while still fighting over the matrimonial money. Does his ruling signal a new approach by the courts? In a written ruling, Mr Justice Mostyn said dating before divorce was a “fly in the ointment” for family court judges asked to decide how much money husbands should give wives following marriage break-ups. He said women risked losing their share of the financial spoils because judges might naturally assume they would set up home with their new partners, assuring their financial future. The warning came following a family court hearing in Swansea where the parties were both in their 40s, the couple concerned had met in 1999 but their marriage broke down in 2012. During lengthy legal proceedings over the matrimonial money, the wife started a new relationship. This relationship dealt a blow to her case even though she was not cohabiting at the time and said she was not going to live with her new boyfriend. Mr Justice Mostyn still noted “… it is perfectly clear that the relationship is strong”. He went on to say “One cannot make assumptions, if it is not full-blown cohabitation akin to marriage that it will grow into that, because if it does not, the wife may be left stranded….” “On the other hand, if one makes a needs assessment on the basis that she is a single woman and she soon cohabits, then the paying party... can rightfully feel significantly aggrieved.” As a result his financial award to the wife in this case was made on the basis that he could not ignore the existence of the relationship. I must admit to being somewhat surprised by the ruling, but it comes as a salutary warning from one of the country’s leading family law judges that you should be careful about having relationships while

in dispute over money. Particularly as the wife in this case said she had only been in the relationship for nine months and that she had no plans to cohabit. Time will tell whether this signals a new approach by the courts or it is simply a one off judgment based on the particular facts of the case. Either way it shows that judges can take all aspects of personal lives into account when making their decisions, and whether you think it’s sexist or not, unfortunately the judge often has the final say. As always, it is sensible to get some legal advice in the circumstances of separation and your particular circumstances. If you would like to discuss your case in confidence, why not take advantage of our free 30 minute consultation. It can be either on the phone or in person. Call or email Tamara Glanvill – Tamara.glanvill@ family-lawfirm.co.uk or 07824668538 to arrange a convenient time.

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The Brickhill Book Bug reviews… The Night Before Christmas

by Clement Clarke Moore

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse…’ The opening words of Clement Clarke Moore’s poem, properly called ‘A Visit from St Nicholas’, can probably be recited by most people. Moore published the poem anonymously in 1823 and immediately caught the imagination of the American public, who enthusiastically took hold of his gift bringing St Nick, who arrives down the chimney to the amazement of the father of the house. The poem is credited with changing the time of Santa’s visit to Christmas Eve, rather than Christmas Day, and possibly led the way to a more child centred holiday.

This is also the poem that gives us the name of Santa’s reindeer. Can you name all eight? ‘Now Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! On, Donder and Blitzen! You may feel a certain other reindeer is missing from this list, but the story of Rudolph didn’t come along until 1949. Books of the poem are often beautifully illustrated and the story has been retold using many popular children’s characters, including Tom & Jerry and the Muppets. But more that anything, Moore’s poem reminds us of the anticipation we felt on Christmas Eve and fills us with the desire to create that excitement for our own children. To find out about Christmas craft sessions and events in your local library, visit the Virtual Library at www. bedford.gov.uk/libraries The Book Bug has worked for the library service in Bedfordshire for over 20 years. She lives in Brickhill with far too many books!

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Lambeth Palace celebration for night-time projects Four representatives from Bedford Street Angels joined over forty people at Lambeth Palace to help launch a year of celebrations for Christian based work within the night-time economy. Christian Nightlife Initiatives (CNI) Network held an afternoon tea reception to launch 2015:10 which will see a year of celebrations around the anniversaries of 20 years of NightLight in Northern Ireland, 15 years of Street Chaplains in Scotland and 10 years of Street Angels in England.

the impact of our work from a national perspective. Founder of CNI Network, Paul Blakey MBE, said of the afternoon, “This was a great occasion not only for CNI Network but also for our local projects and partners. The fact that alcohol related violence and A&E admissions are reducing year on year is part of our story that is something we aim to celebrate with those volunteer teams who are helping to make this happen.”

The afternoon also launched a “Volunteers are amazing - thank you” booklet which will be given to every volunteer within the Network’s 120 local projects.

Rebecca Bolt, one of the Bedford Street Angel representatives, says “It is such an encouragement to be part of the CNI Network, knowing that we are not alone in what we do, but rather are part of a nationwide initiative that is having a big impact on towns and cities.”

Speaking at the event were representatives from the Home Office and Cabinet Office who thanked those who volunteer and spoke about

For more information on the work of CNI Network visit www.cninetwork.org.uk and for Bedford Street Angels visit www.bedfordstreetangels.org.uk

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n O e m a G

In the early to mid 1980s, the electronics market was taken by storm when popular Arcade games were taken to the small screen and made available to play at home. Atari launched Space Invaders on its TV games console, and Nintendo created its iconic handheld game Mario Brothers in what we then thought was state of the art technology. Little did we realise what sophisticated play lay ahead as technology developed and the gaming market expanded.

Over the years, big names have come and gone as market leaders have fought it out to claim the top spot, so that supremacy in the games console market can now be claimed by just two brands – Sony with its PlayStation and Microsoft with its X-box, with the Nintendo Wii trailing in third place. The keenest users are as passionate about their choice of gaming equipment as fans are about the football team they support. It’s known as Console Wars – the battle to establish gaming supremacy. To the unbiased onlooker, they each have their merits. With the new generation of consoles launched in November 2013, the X-box One sees a shift in direction to an all singing, all dancing media hub, offering the ability to view live TV, watch DVDs and stream videos via the Internet (for a price). As well as the facility for live picture chat similar to Skype, it also boasts 52

built in software (called Kinect) which allows you to issue voice commands, which it obeys. In contrast, Sony has opted to keep it simple with the PlayStation One. First and foremost it is designed to play video games, although it does include free access to the Internet to watch videos, and it also comes with a handheld controller known as the Vita which allows you to continue with play whilst checking out what’s on TV. Fought with equal passion is the battle between console users and computer gamers about which platform offers the best gaming experience. PC enthusiasts claim membership of the PC Master Race, based primarily on their machines’ augmented graphical power brought about by upgrades or additions to the original hardware. Though the wars and battles amongst console users and PC players continue in real life as well as on screen, the question about where it’s all heading remains. Mobile gaming on tablets and phones can be just as immersive and fun – and these units are much more portable. In addition, low-priced apps are more attractive than expensive games which become obsolete with the launch of each new generation. Yes, the computer gaming market has come a long way since its explosion in the 1980s, and something tells me it has much further still to go! By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

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TER GEARING UP FOR WIN DS A O R S ’ H G U O R O B E H T ON Bedford Borough Council has launched a range of winter maintenance services to keep local residents informed about efforts to keep the borough moving if and when severe winter weather arrives. These include: • @grittertweets – The Council’s dedicated Twitter service, providing updates on road conditions and gritting runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - twitter.com/grittertweets • Winter maintenance webpage – A simple and convenient web tool which provides daily updates on public transport, adult transport and bin collections - www.bedford. gov.uk/winterupdates • GPS tracking – Gritting lorries are fitted with GPS technology which allows anyone to see, in real time, when and where they are working - www.bedford.gov.uk/ winterupdates Bedford Borough has secured over 5,000 tonnes of gritting salt during the spring and summer months to ensure our stocks are topped up and ready if needed. The Council’s gritting lorries feature the latest technology including GPS transmitters and equipment which ensures salt is spread effectively. Finally, the Council’s specially adapted quad bike will be on call to grit priority areas the lorries cannot reach, such as the town centre and other busy pedestrian areas. Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: “We

know how important it is to local residents that we do all we can to keep the borough’s roads moving all year round, rain or shine. “That is why we work throughout the year to make sure the Council is as well prepared as possible ahead of the winter weather. “We have made sure we are well stocked with plenty of salt to treat our roads and have real time systems to ensure local residents and businesses are kept informed. “Of course, we all hope for a mild winter but local residents can be assured that if the weather is harsh, we are well prepared to minimise the impact and keep the borough moving.”

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With the countdown to Christmas well and truly underway, families all over Bedfordshire will be preparing themselves for the busiest day of the year. With present shopping, tree picking and, most importantly, Christmas dinner cooking, it’s no wonder that everyone will be ready for a well earned rest come Boxing Day, and what better way to spend it than at Bedford Blues Rugby Club cheering on the boys in the Greene King IPA Championship. The Goldington Road club will be opening the gates on Boxing Day as Mike Rayer’s men play play host to promotion-chasing Bristol in their first meeting of season. The two teams last clashed back in February when the visitors wrapped up a 32-19 victory but Bristol’s last visit to Goldington Road on Boxing Day in 2010 showed everyone just how important home support is when 300 fans helped clear four inches of snow from the pitch just hours before kick-off. The Blues also went on to win the game 39-22! Bristol are the bookies favourite for promotion this season and they will certainly be putting out an extremely strong side for the fixture. The likes of

British and Irish Lions players Ian Evans, Ryan Jones and Dwayne Peel could all feature in the lineup providing spectators with the opportunity to watch star players perform in their own back garden while also roaring on the Blues to victory. Hospitality is still available for those wishing to dodge turkey sandwiches a little longer and celebrate the festive season in style. The Blues Marquee is offering a three-course pre-match luncheon as well as a wonderful view of the pitch from the raised area. The Boxing Day match offers the perfect excuse to get out of the house and into the fresh air whilst keeping the Christmassy spirit around for one last day. With bars around the ground and food on-site, Goldington Road is a great place to bring friends and family for a post Christmas day out. Tickets for the match are available on Bedford Blues website www.bedfordrugby.co.uk offering an online discount of £2.

COME ON YOU BLUES!!! 57

SPORTS

Sports & Social Clubs

If you would like to promote a local sports or social club please email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk

Bedford mighty eagles dodgeball team

We are a club that plays at a high level but would love anyone from any sporting ability and background to come down and give it a go as long as you are 15 and above. We have a men’s and women’s squad. It is great fun and a fantastic way to keep fit. We train on Tuesday’s 8-9 at: Hastingsbury school Hill rise, Bedford Mk42 7EB First training session is FREE and then each session is only £3 after that.

Bedford Community Table Tennis Club

Bedford Academy Wednesdays 7.30 – 9.30pm: 16 years old plus, but Juniors can attend with a parent/guardian Open every week. Michael Fox, 07837 975267, chair.bedfordcttc@gmail. com, www.bedfordcttc.weebly.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/bedfordcttc Twitter: www.twitter.com/BedfordCTTC

Bedford FC Mini Soccer Club

Every Saturday at Goldington Academy 10.30am till 12.15pm. Open to boys and girls aged between 4 and 10. Cost per child £3.00 and £5 for two children. Our sole aim is to provide children of all abilities with a unique footballing experience, developing their physical, social and communication skills in a safe environment Full usage of toilet and changing facilities and plenty of car parking spaces. www.bedfordfcminisoccer.com

Shefford & Sandy Hockey Club

Juniors and Adults Sandy Sports Centre Astro, Engayne ave, Sandy. SG19 1BL Tuesdays 6.30-7.30pm – Juniors (5 to 14 years old) Tuesdays 7.30-8.30pm – Adults Whether you are new to the sport or returning after a break S&SHC welcome you to our club training nights. For more info please call Tessa on 07787 970810 www.pitchero.com/clubs/ sheffordandsandyhockeyclub/

Men’s basketball club (16 and over)

Training every Tuesday at 7.45-9 £3 per training (first training is free) Email bedfordthunder@outlook.com Twitter @bedfordthunder Facebook Bedford Thunder Basketball

Bedford Girls and Ladies FC

We are a voluntary sports club for girls age 8 and upwards. If you’d like to find out more info please call Jill on 01234 772668 or 07850540631.

Marston Moretaine Computer Club

Marston Moretaine Social Club Station Road, Marston Moretaine Every Tuesday from 8pm to 10pm New Members and Guests very welcome We deal with all aspects of computer hardware and software with presentations and discussions every week. Email : rog.baynes@ntlworld.com Phone 01234 308878

Bedford MG Owners Club

We meet twice a month at 8pm. On the 1st Tuesday of the month it is at The White Horse, Southill SG18 9LD On the 3rd Tuesday at The Anchor, Gt Barford, MK44 3LF We welcome new members, and have various activities and runs etc. throughout the year. Our next forthcoming event is a Sunday lunch time run in September. Contacts are Chris Waters 01234 401834 or email bmgoc@talktalk.net

Mander Badminton Club

Friendly badminton club looking for new members of a reasonable standard Every Tuesday evening 7-9pm at Bedford Modern School Sports Hall Visitors £5 per session – 1st Session free Contact Anita Watson Tel: 01234 930047

Dancemates

Changing lives with steps in the right direction A special dance club for children over 5 years developing life skills using social Ballroom dancing Merengue, Foxtrot, Tango, Swing Tuesdays 4.45 pm and Saturdays 9.15 am £4 per child £7 for two children The Court, 281-285 Bedford Road Kempston Call/text 07785 992246 www.dancemates-uk.co.uk dancematesuk@gmail.com

Wootton Badminton Club

Wootton Upper School, Hall End, Wootton, Beds MK43 9HT Thursdays from 7.00pm to 10.00pm This friendly club welcomes anyone who does or has played badminton, sorry no absolute beginners. Contact: Freda Dunlop 01234 270638 Email: garry.freda@btinternet.com Website: www:woottonbadmintonclub.weebly.com

Bedford

Town FC Bedford Townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up and down season has continued throughout the month of October. Following a very indifferent start to the season, the Eagles continued a poor run of form losing 2:0 at bottom of the league North Greenford United before a subtle lesson at the hands of local rivals Kettering Town on Tuesday 7th October. Having conceded six goals without reply, on Saturday 11th October the club headed to Aylesbury FC with a sense of trepidation. However, goals from Tom Liversedge gave the visitors a strong half time lead before Paul Cooper, Rob Parker and Jeff Woodward added to the entertainment in the second half with the final result ended up 5-1. The month finished with more inconsistency. Mid table Marlow visited the Eyrie on 25th October and were gifted a few goals in another 4:0 home defeat. The following Tuesday, Craig Adamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; boys set about making a mend for the defeat and did so with a convincing 4:2 win over Daventry Town. The positive story of this season for the club has certainly been the first FA Trophy run in a number of years. For fans who maybe unaware, the FA Trophy is a competition designed for the top four

tiers of the English Non League system and results in a Sunday afternoon final at Wembley Stadium in March. Unusually, the Eagles have faced three home ties in the competition. Unusual in the sense that the club is more often that not drawn away from home. In the preliminary round, Chipstead FC from Surrey visited the Eyrie and the afternoon proved to be both entertaining and nervous for most. Having taken a 4:0 lead by the 52 minute, Craig Adams was forced into a couple of changes. Chipstead showed immense spirit and managed to force their way back into the game in the last twenty minutes. However, the young Eagles held on to record a 4:3 victory. Into the next round, and Brightlingsea Regent FC were the visitors. The love for the trophy appeared to shine through once more, as the seasiders were brushed aside 4:0 with some ease, including an incident where the Eagles were reduced to ten men after just half an hour. The next round of the competition takes place on Saturday 15th November, where Bedford will entertain Chippenham Town FC hoping to continue this fine run.

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