Bedslocal november 2014 by BedsLocal

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Commemoration of WW1

CONSUMER ARTICLE

Dealing with Parking Tickets

BEDFORD’S CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH ON & REMEMBRANCE PARADE Find details inside

WIN

£25 up for grabs with our Prize Crossword A pair of CINEWORLD tickets to see the latest blockbuster of your choice A Family Ticket to see the Fantastic Mr Fox at the Sharnbrook Mill Theatre

And lots lots more..........

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20,000

Issue 20 November 2014

copies delivered to Bedford and the surrounding villages

In this issue Christmas Light Switch On..................3

Bartletts – Damaged Trees............... 40

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

Bedford’s Forgotten Polar Connection.................................44

Consumer – Parking Tickets................8 Book Review..................................... 10 Alistair Burt – Education................... 12 Remembrance Sunday..................... 16 Woolley’s – Your Right To Stay In Your Home............................ 24

Prize Crossword................................ 46 Molyneux Jones New Website......... 48 Local Kitchen Company Award....... 50 The Royal British Legion................... 56 National Adoption Week................... 62

The Elephant..................................... 26

Run Safe............................................ 68

Dementia........................................... 28

Bedford Rugby Club......................... 69

Lifeline............................................... 29

Sports and Social Clubs................... 70

The Mews.......................................... 32

Bedford Town FC.............................. 71

Annual Christmas Tree festival......... 36

Directory........................................... 72

What’s On.......................................... 38

Cinema Competition......................... 74

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

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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

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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)

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Christmas Light Switch On Bedford will be ‘switched-on’ to Christmas on November 26th - thanks to town centre businesses and the BedfordBID. The business organisation is sponsoring the annual riverside fireworks display on that night, and at the same time the town centre Christmas lights will go on. Late Night Christmas Shopping begins on the same day and there will be an appearance by Father Christmas and his reindeer outside the Harpur Centre. Parking will be FREE from 5.30 pm onwards at Lurke Street and Allhallows multi storey car parks for late night shopping on Nov 26th, Dec 3rd, 10th and 17th. BedfordBID Director Christina Rowe said: “Business are working with Bedford Borough Council to pull out all the stops to make this the best Christmas ever in town.” Full details updated on www.lovebedford.co.uk *The “ice-rink” on the Christmas cake will be the skating zone at the Bedford Swan Hotel which opens on November 21st . Bookings 4

are being taken now for those who want to enjoy a “Bedford on ice” experience. Bedford Swan Hotel Sales and Marketing Manager Natasha Trudgill said: “Our ice-rink is going to be a huge crowd-puller for the town for the whole winter season. Those 1,000s who gather on the riverside to see the fireworks on November 26th will be able to get a great view of our winter wonderland.”

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

Council News

Y COMMUNIT

NEW ADDITIONS TO HELP ENFORCEMENT AROUND BEDFORD BOROUGH

Two new scooters will help Bedford Borough Council enforce against unlawful parking. The two scooters will help officers enforce across the wider borough area, ensuring routes are kept clear to avoid congestion and keep children safe outside schools. The scooters also have the advantage of being able to be rapidly deployed with great flexibility and so can respond quickly to requests from the public on matters such as blocked driveways.

Cllr Charles Royden, the Portfolio Holder for Environment and Transport, said: “The new scooters will provide a quick and effective response to any situation, offering our enforcement officers increased mobility around town and importantly, far greater access to the borough’s rural communities. “These vehicles have the added benefit of cost savings on both fuel and tax and the fact that they’re environmentally friendly, easier to park and can gain access to places where a larger vehicle might struggle to reach.”

FREE SUNDAY PARKING IN ALL COUNCIL CAR PARKS Bedford Borough Council has announced more good news for Bedford Town Centre and local shoppers with the introduction of free parking on Sundays in all town centre car parks. Free parking on Sundays in all Council-operated car parks will be implemented from 2 November, in time for the crucial Christmas period. This is the latest in a series of parking initiatives backed by the Council’s Executive to support shoppers and traders alike including the Free Parking Deal on Saturdays, 24-hour opening and four years of town centre car park charge freezes. The Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: “There is already free on-street and surface parking on Sundays and this brings our multistorey car parks into line. We want to encourage people to visit and enjoy Bedford Town Centre every weekend and to support a thriving town centre economy. Free Sunday parking across all Council car parks will be in place in time for the festive period and will continue all-year round.” Council Executive member Cllr Sue Oliver supports the change and said: “This decision to extend free parking on Sundays to all Council car parks demonstrates that the Executive has listened to the wishes of local businesses and residents and acted upon them. It will support and encourage more residents and visitors to come into the town centre on Sundays, helping to promote and assist businesses.” In further good news for motorists, the car park in Prebend Street now costs £5 to park all day, reduced from £8.

COMMUNITY

HAVE YOUR SAY ON LOCAL

PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICE NEEDS

Bedford Borough Council is consulting on pharmaceutical service needs in the area and residents are invited to have their say. PNAs are used by the NHS to decide whether to approve applications for new pharmacies and it is used by commissioners to identify local health needs that could be addressed by pharmacy services. Anyone who uses local pharmaceutical services, e.g chemists, is encouraged to comment on a draft PNA by completing an online survey. Cllr Colleen Atkins, Executive Member for Adults’ Services at Bedford Borough Council, said: “We want residents to have their say. Users’ views and opinions are vital in helping to form the recommendations and ensure that good quality, cost-effective pharmacy services are delivered to residents.” The consultation is open now until 15th December 2014 and can be found online at www. bedford.gov.uk/PNA . Alternatively, residents can call in at their local pharmacy, GP surgery, Library or Council Office to view the Executive Summary and collect a survey. Full printed copies of the draft PNA, and versions in another format or language are available. Please contact 01234 276874 to receive one.

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

MER CONSU

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t i w

We’ve all been there – you return to your car to find a dreadful luminous yellow packet stuck to your windscreen. The dreaded parking ticket! When should you pay up though and when should you fight it all the way?

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If you have been silly and parked somewhere you shouldn’t, and as long as the company/council has made you aware of their rules on parking with clear signage, you should pay up as quickly as possible. Delaying will only mean that the bill goes up. Pay it, learn from it and move on. In many cases though, things are not so clear cut. Very often motorists are left confused as to what parking restrictions are. In these cases it is always worth appealing. If you want to appeal, then follow these simple instructions: 1. DO NOT PAY if you intend to appeal the fine. Generally paying a parking fine is an admission of liability and you will not be successful with an appeal after this. 2. If you’re going to appeal, then do so as soon as possible. Don’t leave it to the last minute. Write to the company and ask them to put the penalty on hold until they have investigated your appeal. They don’t HAVE to do this, but reputable companies and councils will do.

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5. If you’re claiming exceptional circumstances (i.e. you were suddenly taken very ill and had to abandon your car in a place you shouldn’t have), then obtain supporting letters etc. 6. See if you can get any witnesses to back up your claims and provide you with a witness statement. 7. Stick to the timeline dictated by the company or council. If you are late submitting information etc, then you will lose by default. When you receive a parking penalty from a council, you need to have your wits about you. These are fully enforceable and need to be taken very seriously. Private parking company ‘fines’ are a slightly different matter and should be approached as such. Firstly, they are NOT ‘fines’. They are merely invoices and unless the company is prepared to take you to the small claims court for payment of the invoice, are non-enforceable. That is not so say you shouldn’t consider carefully how to deal with them. If you have parked on private land and broken the rules of the owner of that land, then pay the fee requested as long as you consider it reasonable. If you don’t then pay a reasonable amount based on an equivalent charge for a penalty on a public road. The company would have to sue you for the difference and explain to a judge why the extra money is necessary.

3. When you appeal, make sure you gather as much evidence as possible to support your claim.

If you want to appeal, then use the company’s own appeals process first. If you are unsuccessful then most private companies will be members of either the British Parking Association or the Independent Parking committee. They have their own separate appeals processes that you can use to escalate your complaint.

4. Take photographs of your car in position, the signs or lack of them nearby. Anything to demonstrate that it was not made clear enough that you could not park your car in that place.

Finally, the best way to deal with parking tickets is to avoid getting one in the first place. Always look for signs and road markings when you leave your car to see if it’s allowed there or not.

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.

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The Brickhill Book Bug reviews… We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves

by Karen Joy Fowler Once upon a time Rosemary Cooke lived in a big house with her mother and father, a sister and a brother and her father’s research students. Then one day her sister Fern was taken away and, while he was trying to find her, her older brother Lowell disappeared as well. Rosemary starts to tell us her story in the middle. It’s the late 90s and she’s at college, trying to fit in after an unconventional childhood she’s desperate to hide from her flatmates. When the wild and wacky Harlow Fielding suddenly bursts into her life things start to unravel and Rosemary decides its finally time to discover what really happened to Fern, and why. When Lowell unexpectedly appears one day she finally gets her chance. Of course things are not quite what they seem in the Cooke family. Karen Joy Fowler tells us surprisingly early on in her novel what is so special about Fern but her skill as a writer will keep you reading until the end to find out if Lowell’s search has been successful and whether Rosemary and her sister can ever be reunited. For more information about books and reading, 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! 10

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

MP COLUMN

Education the world over It tends to be the case that we value education rather more as we get older than when we were at school! School days vary – I enjoyed mine, but I know that was not universal. However the importance of education to our children inspires most parents to take a strong interest in what’s going on. I think we are lucky in Bedfordshire to have a variety; independent and state schools, single sex and mixed, large and small and home educators. All are striving to deliver what parents and children most want, that mix of academic and life skills essential for the future. Our arrangement of lower, middle and upper schools is getting rarer, and this has provoked fierce debate over the years. We have it again in North Bedfordshire as schools examine urgently the needs of all, and whether change is now required. I am listening very carefully to what is being said on all sides. Neither I, nor

Beds Borough portfolio holder Henry Vann have the authority to make a decision; the onus will be on all to reach a consensual decision, and we will be giving them every assistance in that. But when we lift our eyes a little further, we can reflect on this debate in a wider context. We are lucky to have such a debate. For some children the very thought of an education is a fantasy, or something which is denied them by force, particularly if they are girls. The sheer delight of an English village school in high summer is truly a world away from the experiences of some. That is why I hope the UK is so proud of Nobel Prize winner Mulala, that remarkable girl who was shot by the Taliban for her determination to fight for the right to education where she lived, but who survived and has been cared for in Birmingham ever since. She now campaigns for the world-wide right of girls to learning. I cannot recall a brighter talent in world affairs at such a young age. The value of education to her was exemplified in her decision, when told of her prize, to remain in her school lessons and only meet the media after school hours. As we also debate the argument to remove children from school for holidays, I notice that Mulala says she will only miss school time if it is of crucial benefit to other children – as when she went to plead for the kidnapped girls in Nigeria – apart from that, school comes first. So while we discuss our children’s future we can give thanks for their opportunities and support those committed to helping others around the world achieve the most of their potential. Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP

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Y COMMUNIT

Rememberance Sunday 2014 100 years ago August 1914 saw the beginning of the 1st world war! It was and still is the worst war in History. Millions of people died or were wounded and many civilians were displace around much of the world.

It was in 1922 that the British Legion was founded and was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1925. Bedford Branch founded within several months of the beginning is one of the oldest branches in the country.

It is only a few years since the last of our 1st world war veterans died. Many of us still remember those grandfathers and Uncles who survived that war and it is fitting and right that we should remember the sacrifices that a whole generation gave.

Sadly through lack of membership many branches across the country have closed and Bedfordshire has not been without its casualties. We are now struggling to produce enough manpower to provide poppies and wreaths to all the people that require them and we have insufficient numbers to attend all the super markets, High streets and man the poppy shop, which even at this late stage we have not yet been given in spite of the empty shops around Bedford Town. However as usual we will somehow manage to do every thing necessary in order to preserve the memories of those who went before us and to raise money to support the current injured and mentaly disturbed service people who are presently defending our country in there foot steps. Remember that the RBL supports the ex service personal who have problems through out their life time and also there dependents.

COMMUNITY Just recently it has been brought to our attention that some of the public believe that all members of the RBL are paid for their services given. This is not correct! The only people who receive pay from the RBL are a small few within Head office who work all day on administration, publicity and the sorting of welfare. All other members are volunteers,most are ex services members who are eager to put something back for those less fortunate than themselves and in recent years more people who have not served have also joined wishing to help those who kept this country free and have not been well looked after by the various governments as much as they should have done!

corner Tuesday the 11th. Which is of course Armistice Day. The ceremoney will commence from 10.50am

Remembrance parade this year will take place in Bedford along the Embankment starting from the War Memorial at 10.50am and after the usual service and march past, will finish on Harpur square at approximately 12.00pm The Parade will be led as always by the Bedford Pipe band.

Phone Bob Colman 01234 767882 Robin Thomas 01234 302788 Angela Parker 01234 214222 See you either at the Poppy shop or on Parade.

We hope to have a “Poppy” shop in the town and we would be delighted if people volunteer to help or wish to become members of The Royal British Legion.

There will be a smaller parade at Boots

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Your rights to stay in your home when you separate Tamara Glanvill, Solicitor at Woolley & Co, Bedford www.family-lawfirm.co.uk Separating is difficult enough before considering the arrangements which need to be made over the home you have shared. Whether it is rented or owned, in both your names or just in one of your names, you may still have rights to live and stay there. There is often either an argument over it being ‘my’ house or that it is assumed one party should stay to look after the children and the other should be expected to leave. If you are not sure whether you should leave or whether you can ask that your partner leaves take advice from a family lawyer who will explore your circumstances. Where a house is owned or rented in both names there is an equal right in law that both are entitled to be in the home. Practically this may not work, but the party leaving the home has security in the knowledge that the home is part theirs and so they will still have that interest in the property. The right to the home will remain until the ownership or the tenancy is changed into just one persons’ name, or sale. For couples who own their home, options can include whether the person who remains in the home can ‘buy’ the other person’s share, whether it should be sold and the sale proceeds divided or perhaps whether the person remaining in the home, where children are involved, should be able to keep the home until children are grown up. Renting couples usually wish to have one parties’ name removed from the tenancy when they leave so the other is solely responsible for the rent. It is very important that this is done by consent as technically if one party gives the landlord ‘Notice to Quit’ to end the tenancy they do this on behalf of both parties and the landlord can assume to end the tenancy. Where there are arrears the landlord will likely to want to know who will clear these before the tenancy is changed to one name. Where the home is in one persons’ name only, the other may still be entitled to stay there, even if the other person says you have no right to live in ‘my’ house.

If the couple are married, then the spouse who is not named as an owner still has a right to stay in the home and to ‘occupy’ it and can register their Matrimonial Home Rights with the Land Registry to protect their interest until the divorce is concluded. This party may be able to have the home transferred to them in a divorce settlement or have a lump sum payment from the value of the equity in the home, depending on the circumstances of their individual life. Where a couple is not married and only one party owns the home or is named on the tenancy, the other may still have a right to stay there in the short term and/ or may also have a right to claim against equity in the property because they have acquired an interest in it. This can have occurred in various circumstances – it is important to get specialist advice promptly and before you leave as in fact you may be able to stay. As with any legal issue it is important to take professional advice before making any decisions. Call Tamara Glanvill 0845 680 2136 or email her on tamara.glanvill@family-lawfirm.co.uk for a free 30 minute consultation.

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 25

FOOD

This month we decided to try The Elephant in Kempston, a Thai and Chinese restaurant situated on the corner of Margetts Road and Bedford Road, overlooking Howard/Addison Park. The building itself has seen a myriad of businesses within its walls over the years; from an Italian Restaurant to a Caribbean Restaurant and the furthest back we can remember is that it was once Kettering Tyres. On entering The Elephant, the transformation is quite staggering, it is an extremely well thought out design and with the aromatic spices filling the air you feel you are being whisked away to some far off land. Our evening started by being greeted by Manager Jack (his English name) and shown to our table by Mei, our waitress for the evening. Drinks in one hand and a menu in the other we studied the fayre on offer and were ready to order. We took our 12 year old son with us and he opted for 2 starters, one as a starter and the other as his main, a sensible idea as the portions are fairly generous. All the food is authentic at The Elephant and head chefs Wattana and Bao freshly cook to order using

only the finest ingredients. Owner Christine informed us that half the kitchen was purely for the Thai chefs and half for the Chinese chefs and that at any service there is at least one Thai and one Chinese chef. We opted for a Thai set menu for 2, the starter was a mixed selection with dipping sauces â&#x20AC;&#x201C; chicken satay with peanut sauce, spring roll, deep fried king prawn with sweet chilli sauce, chicken wrapped in pandanus leaves and fish cakes with a cucumber dip. Our son took the Chinese route and started with crab meat and sweet corn soup. Tasty, spicy and just the right amount for a starter, the sauces complimenting the food and as for the soup â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this went down very well with a mightily hungry young boy!

Mei and Xu our waitress and waiter at The Elephant were friendly, efficient and tended to every need and after they had cleared the starters away they served up the main courses. Our son chose the Crispy Aromatic Duck – served with cucumber, spring onion and Hoi sin sauce and of course deliciously thin pancakes. The set menu gave us Beef in a satay sauce, Green chicken curry, King Prawns with vegetables and Egg fried rice. The portions were substantial to say the least and each and every one of them was delicious, just hot enough for us ( the dishes are coded with coloured chillies for the heat of the dish). A really flavoursome selection of dishes with crispy veg, well cooked meat and a tantalising array of spices to tease the taste buds. We were also looking forward to sampling the Duck our son had chosen only to discover he had devoured all of it in double quick time!

FOOD

There is an impressive choice of dishes on offer at The Elephant, including specialities such as fresh fish, jumbo black tiger prawns, rib-eye steak and lamb cutlet dishes. We feel certain that there will something for everyone; adults and children alike. A takeaway menu is available as well as a licensed bar on the premises and The Elephant is capable of catering for large group bookings, whether it be a Birthday party or office get together, they will see to your every need. Onto the dessert and we had a little room left for one of the desserts recommended by Christine – Pandanas pancake served with ice cream. Well worth waiting for, lovely soft pancake with coconut and rich creamy ice cream, not at all heavy and just what the doctor ordered to finish off what was an excellent meal. We can highly recommend The Elephant in Kempston and if well cooked delicious food, along with great surroundings plus good service is important to you, then you won’t be disappointedgo on give it a go, what have you got to lose?

Open everyday throughout the year (excluding Christmas Eve/Christmas Day)

Open all day Boxing Day & New Year’s Day and Sundays Closed Christmas Eve/Christmas Day For Christmas party bookings please call Jack (Restaurant Manager) Or email: mail@the-elephant.co.uk

Take-away service: Delivery and collection available

01234 843210 www.the-elephant.co.uk

118-120 Bedford Road, Kempston, Beds MK42 8BG To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 27

Dementia HEALTH

Around 800,000 people in the UK have dementia.

The word dementia describes a set of symptoms which include memory loss, and difficulty with thinking, problem solving and language. These symptoms can sometimes be caused by other things however, so it’s important to get a diagnosis as soon as possible. Your GP may refer you to a specialist consultant. Assessments are likely to include conversations with you and your loved ones, a physical examination, memory tests and/or a brain scan.

Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or a series of strokes. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, affecting 62 per cent of those diagnosed. Other types include vascular dementia affecting 17 per cent, and mixed dementia which affects 10 per cent of those diagnosed. Those with dementia may be given medicines to help with symptoms and slow down progression, but as yet there is no cure. Some sufferers also attend day centres and support groups. Carers can get help from local Carers Groups, Social Services and Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurses. These nurses specialise in dementia and provide practical and emotional support as well as information to families, friends and professionals. Dementia UK is a charity. In addition to Admiral Nurses it also provides a national helpline and email service. One of the other major organisations in this field is the Alzheimer’s Society. This is a membership organisation which provides local support services, including day care and home care and befriending and support for families and partners of those with dementia. They also provide fact sheets and publications and have a helpline and an online forum called talking point. In addition, the Alzheimer’s Society fund research, provide training and development and campaign to raise awareness. One of their recent initiatives is Dementia Friends. You may have seen the television adverts for this which included lots of celebrity support. Anyone can become a Dementia Friend. I did in just over 10 minutes! 28

This campaign is all about increasing understanding about dementia, and educating people so that they can help those with the condition. Dementia Friends learn a little bit about what it’s like to have dementia and then turn this understanding into action. This could include helping someone get on the correct bus, or being patient if someone with dementia is taking a long time to find the right change when paying for their goods at a till. To become a friend you watch a short video on the website then register or attend a local information session. Dementia UK: www.dementiauk.org/ Helpline: Call 0845 257 9406 or email direct@ dementiauk.org. The Alzheimer’s Society: www.alzheimers.org.uk/ Helpline: Call 0300 222 1122 Dementia Friends: www.dementiafriends.org.uk/ By Susan Brookes-Morris

HEALTH

Lifeline The Lifeline24 Personal Pendant Alarm service, sometimes called Telecare, offers individuals, their families and carers, security and peace of mind, and enables people to live independently and safely in their own home. It is particularly useful for those living alone or for those with mobility difficulties who are at risk of finding themselves on the floor through falling, stumbling, tripping or simply sliding off the chair and then unable to get up. The service also has huge benefits for individuals who have been discharged from hospital by providing reassurance and the all important peace of mind to Carers and family by supporting them in their caring roles.

The alarm consists of a button in the form of a light weight pendant worn discreetly around the neck, or on the wrist, and a base unit that works with your telephone system. When you press your pendant, your base unit will receive a signal from your pendant and your call will go via your telephone line to the monitoring centre, which is staffed by trained operators who will answer your alarm call on any day of the year, 24 hours a day. The staff at our monitoring centre, which has the highest accreditation in the industry, are trained to quickly assess the problem and organise the most appropriate assistance for you. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a false alarm donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry, they will be glad to hear that all is well. Lifeline24 is pleased to offer you the lowest cost private Telecare service available.

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 29

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Once upon a time on a perfectly white winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s night in a small market square there was an olde coaching inn w i t h

f i cently hearty feast laid out for merry friends to enjoy as the fine wines and festive spirits warmed their very sou l s

Chat, eat, drink and be merry this season with our Christmas feast menu for groups of eight or more.* Bring family and friends, and help yourselves to a traditional festive spread laid out along your table. Choose two, three or four courses to make up your feast. To book, pop in for a menu or call us on 01767 260221. *December Ă la carte menu available for smaller parties.

lunch 12-3pm Bookings now bei ng taken for Box ing Day

HEALTH

s w e M e h T Osteopathic, Physiotherapfey, stSpyleortCslinic. Injury, Sports Massage & Li

Open day Saturday 15th November 2014 10am – 5pm Our open day will be offering a variety of therapies for you to try, along side practical workshops & talks. To avoid missing out, please book in advance. Free 20 minute Taster Sessions: • Biomechanical Assessment • Sports massage • Indian Head & Neck Massage • Holistic back & Neck Massage

Free 30 minute workshops: • How to Foam Roll the body (practical please wear suitable attire) Ken Parsons • Community CrossFit gym session (sportswear required) CorePerformance Free 30 minute Talks: • Back Care with Mrs Mair Seal, Chartered Physiotherapist • An introduction to Indian head and neck massage • Sports massage talk and demo During the day therapists will be on hand to discuss any questions you might have regarding certain treatments. There will be a welcome drink on arrival & nibbles with a goody bag to take away with information & vouchers relating to the clinic.

The Mews clinic, Osteopathic, Physiotherapy, Sports Injuries & Lifestyle Clinic, 4-6 Sergeants Way, Bedford, MK41 0EH | 01234 219070 | www.themewsclinic.co.uk | info@themewsclinic.co.uk 32

HEALTH

About us The Mews is a multi-disciplinary clinic where all therapists are fully qualified, insured & registered with their own individual professional bodies. As a clinic we treat each patient as an individual & offer different treatment plans according to the patients’ needs whatever their ability or disability. Our patients range from the general public through to professional sports people offering treatments from general aches & pains to sports injury assessment, treatment & rehabilitation. All treatment rooms are spacious, light & airy, with free onsite parking. The clinic is fully accessible for wheelchairs, offering large treatment rooms for easy maneuverability, dedicated onsite parking spaces right outside of the clinics reception & a disabled toilet & wet-room. We share our premises with Core Performance Crossfit & are currently joining forces with them putting together packages for strength & conditioning for our disabled patients to help with their everyday activities. For further information regarding this contact the Mews Clinic direct.

Sarah de Lacey Munday – Osteopath Sarah de Lacey Munday (Proprietor, Osteopath & Sports Injury Therapist), qualified in 1987 as a Sports Therapist then gained a BSc (Ost) DO (Degree in Osteopathy) in 1998. She has since been actively involved in the health & fitness industry for 27 years & has gained invaluable experience working with other professional Physiotherapists, Orthopaedic & Neurological Consultants. Over the years Sarah has worked with professional sportsmen &

women including Athletes, Boxers, Rugby Players & Tri-athletes, and for 9 years with Paralympic GB attending 2 Paralympic games, Athens & Beijing. Sarah was a Key note speaker at Bedford Sports Personality of the Year 2010 presenting ’The Road to Beijing, The Disabled Athlete in Paralympic Sport’. Owing to her experience in Paralympic sport would like to enhance her disability work at the clinic. To date Sarah has encouraged a few of her current disabled wheelchair patients into Paralympic sport. Alongside managing & working in her multidisciplinary clinic, Sarah has been involved in the Film Industry at various UK Studios treating International Actors, Directors, Stunt personnel & those building the film sets. All Sarah’s therapists at The Mews Clinic benefit from her vast knowledge & experience, enhancing their own therapy & encouraging them to work together for the benefit of the patients. So whoever you see at the clinic the experience and professionalism will be second to none, together with a relaxed atmosphere for the benefit of the patient.

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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

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Y COMMUNIT

The Ensemble of London present a ‘Classics at Christmas’ concert at St Paul’s Bedford

ree T s a m t s i r h C Annual Paul’s t S t a l a v i t s e F rd church Bedfo

Rows of trees -north aisle

Children at Christmas Tree

Once again St Paul’s church, Bedford will be the splendid setting for over 60 trees decorated to the theme ‘Friendship through Sport’. The trees will be decorated by voluntary organisations, small businesses and schools. There will also be two Trees of Remembrance to which members of the public can add messages to loved ones. The proceeds will be shared between St Paul’s and the Bedford Hospitals Charity. This must see annual festival has raised over £100,000 since 2001. Open Wed 3rd Dec -Sunday 7 Dec 10-5 (Sunday 2-5). Admission £2.50, children free. Refreshments served.

The Festival will be opened at 10am on Wednesday 3 December by the Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis. After the Festival, the non drip trees will be available to buy from 11am to noon on Monday 8 December for £10.

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, on Friday 5 December, 2014, at 7.30 pm. Tickets are available on line at www.bedfordhospitalcharity. org.uk, or telephone 01234 783181, or St. Paul’s Church 01234 340163. Cost £15 to include glass of wine. 36

St Paul’s church, the parish church of Bedford with its tall spire stands majestically in St Paul’s square in the town centre where there has been a church for over 1000 years. Today the majestic interior boasts a combination of glorious architectural features added to over the centuries, with colourful stained glass windows as well as carvings in stone or painted wood. This setting makes a superb backdrop for the many Christmas trees and for the delightful concert. Last year Prince Charles visited the festival. Why not make sure that you attend this year and give your support to two important Bedford charities. Ann Collett-White

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 37

EVENTS

November

31 October & 1 November Family Halloween Event 5.30pm Adults £6, Children £8.50 The Friends of the Swiss Garden Family Halloween Event returns this year. Spooky tours of The Swiss Garden and woodland start at allocated times from 5.30pm onwards and are followed by games and activities on the Terrace Lawn and in the new Garden Room. Ticket price includes £4 refreshment ticket for the restaurant. Max. 2 children per adult. Please bring a torch. Book online or telephone. Tel: 01767 627924 Web: www.shuttleworth.org 1 November Bedford Crafts, Produce & A Cuppa! 9am-2pm Church Lane Community Centre, Church Lane, Bedford First Saturday of the month. 1 November 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. Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 1 November Fireworks Display Gates open 6pm, Bonfire lit 6.30pm, Fireworks 7pm Blunham Playing Field Adults £5, Under 16 free (max 2 children per adult) BBQ, Bar, Hot refreshments. Come along and have a great night with us!! Web: www.blunhampfa.co.uk 1 November Ben Goldscheider in Concert 7.30pm St Owen’s Church, Bromham Adults £8, Children 2 Ben is a talented young horn player. Tel: 01234 825454 3, 10, 17 & 24 November 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

2014

Please send your What’s On entries to whatson@bedslocalmag.co.uk by the 14th of the month previous to publication

3, 10, 17 & 24 November Dancing Stars Total Beginners Class 7.30-8.30pm Priory Methodist Church, Newham Avenue, Bedford, Dancing Stars Line Dance Club New Total Beginners Class. May finish later if good turnout. Tel: Stephen 07969 847553 Web: http://dancingstars.comuf.com/ 6, 13, 20 & 27 November Dancing Stars Line Dance Club Total Beginners 6.45-7.45pm Improvers and Intermediates 7.45-10pm Kempston Hammmers Club, High Street, Kempston Tel: Stephen 07969 847553 Web: http://dancingstars.comuf.com/ 7 November Bedfordshire Family History Society 7.15pm Mark Rutherford School Drama Hall, Bedford, MK42 9RX Members free, Visitors £2 Illustrated talk is “Burial Customs and Their History” by Canon Denis McSwiney”. Bedfordshire Family History Society welcomes new members to its talks. Library and bookstall are available at meetings. Next meeting will be 5 December. Web: www.bfhs.org.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 November Social Ballroom Dancing 7.30pm The Court, 282-285 Bedford Road, Kempston, MK42 8QB Large dance floor with great music. Tel: 07785 992246 www.thecourtschoolofdancing.co.uk 8 November What Then Was War? An evening of Poetry and Music St Peter de Merton with St Cuthbert Church, De Parys Avenue, Bedford The Royal British Legion has been collaborating with representatives of No Loss Productions, Bedford Creative Arts, Bedford Choral Society, Bedford Arts Choir and composer Sophie Viney to create an evening featuring poetry and songs from the Great War; and new music and words inspired by wartime experiences. During the evening, No Loss Productions will present poetry and prose stirred by the War under the direction of Cally Lawrence, with music and songs from the First World War arranged by the composer and two additional arrangements by Roger Illingworth. These, plus two new

compositions, will be performed by Bedford Arts Choir and Bedford Choral Society Chamber Choir under the baton of Ian Smith. Tel: Tickets Bedford Central Box Office 01234 718112 9 November Remembrance Day Parade & Service of Remembrance 11am War Memorial, The Embankment, Bedford The Royal British Legion Bedford and District Branch Remembrance Day Parade and Service of Remembrance. 12 November Bedford Local Group of the Wildlife Trust 7.30pm Priory Park Visitor Centre, Barkers Lane, Bedford Dragonflies – an illustrated talk by Henry Stanier. All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Tel: 01234 266057 www.wildlifebcn.org and see ‘events’ 13 November Mid. Beds. Floral Society 7.45pm Flitwick Village Hall Visitors £5 Christmas Demonstration by Susie Barwick. Visitors welcome. Tel: Marion Tucker 01234 742396 for more details 14 & 15 November Bedford Art Society and Bedford Camera Club Joint Exhibition Harpur Suite, Bedford Members free, Visitors £2 Exciting event displaying range of affordable art and variety of prints by local artists and photographers. All for sale unless otherwise stated. Both societies welcome new members. Home-made refreshments and raffle. 15 November 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 15 November Christmas Stall 11am-6pm The White Horse Pub, Newnham Avenue, Bedford Selling a wide selection of Christmas cards, gifts, stocking-fillers, freshly-baked cakes

EVENTS and home-made jams, to raise funds for the Friends of Bedford Hospital. Several more charity stalls will also be there so do visit and start your Christmas shopping early! If you kindly wish to donate gifts for the stall please phone Felicity on 01234 359716 or email djfscott@yahoo.co.uk. 17 November Fundraising Tea Dance 2-4.30pm Addison Centre, Kempston £2.50 including refreshments Tel: 01234 340997 18 November Bedford National Trust Association 2.30pm Addison Centre, Kempston Talk “The Archaeology of Gardens” by Sue Oosthuizen. Everyone welcome. Tel: 01480 860439 for further details 21 November Great Barford Community Quiz Night Bar opens 7pm, quiz starts 7.30pm Great Barford Village Hall £7 per person including hot supper Teams of up to 4. Tel: Team bookings Louise 01234 870443 22 November 20th Annual Christmas Craft Fayre 10.30am-3.30pm St Mark’s Church & Community Centre, Calder Rise/Avon Drive Bedford Grand Prize Draw – 1st prize a digital television & various other prizes. Over 25 professional craft stalls. Father Christmas. Refreshments including Ploughman’s Lunches. Great Day Out. Proceeds to Church Funds. 22 November Christmas Fayre in aid of Canine Partners 11am-3pm Happy Dogs Training and Grooming Centre, Clapham, MK41 6EJ Admission 50p All the usual stalls including Santa Paws, refreshments and an opportunity to meet the puppies! Tel: 07817 116406 or 01234 365601 for more information 22 November Bedford Folk Dance Club 7-10.30pm Putnoe Heights Church, Putnoe Heights, Bedford Tickets £8 Autumn Dance with The Ivel Valley Band and John Meechan. Bring a plate of food to share and own drinks. Tel: Ron Law 01234 825574 22 November Roderick Williams in Concert 7.30pm St Andrew’s Church, Kimbolton Road, Bedford Advance Tickets £8, Concessions £7, Students 16-21 years £4, Children accompanied by an adult free. On the door tickets £9, Concessions £8 Roderick Williams – Baritone, Joseph

Middleton – Piano. Tel: Tickets St Andrew’s Church Centre Office 01234 216881 or Bedford Central Box Office 01234 718112 Web: www.standrewsbedford.org Christmas Fair British Red Cross Bedfordshire, Saturday 22nd November 2014, 10am – 4.30pm, Entry Fee £3.50 Erskine May Hall, Bedford Boys Preparatory School, De Parys Ave., Bedford, MK40 2TU. Parking/disabled parking, Teas, cakes choirs, raffle, art competition, tombola, secret bid for a holiday in Turkey. 23 November Christmas Bazaar 2.30pm Great Barford Village Hall, Fishers Close, Green End Road, Great Barford Adults 50p, Children under 14 free Many Stalls, children’s games, grand Raffle, lucky dip, tombola and refreshments. 23 November Youth Makes Music 3pm St Lawrence Church, Willington Adults £6, Children under 12 £3 including refreshments after the concert St Lawrence Church, Willington welcomes the East Bedfordshire Youth Choir under their conductor Karen Beer, and musicians from the Bedford Free School for a concert of music both old and new. The concert will provide first class musical entertainment for all the family. Tickets available in advance or on the door. Tel: Tickets Keith Brown 01234 831136 Email revkjb@aol.com 24 November The Royal British Legion Bedford & District Branch 7.30pm The Great Hall, Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford Talk on ‘Ungentlemanly Conduct Listening to the enemy in WWI’ by Mike Chapman. The importance of the ULTRA intelligence to the Allied war effort in WW2 is well known, but this talk will look at incidents such as the sabotaging of German undersea cables and the “Zimmermann Telegram’ to illustrate how that later success owed much to lessons learned from the interception of communications traffic, code breaking, interpretation and the discrete use of the intelligence gained in the Great War. 26 November Christmas Shopping Evening 7-9pm Blunham Village Hall Christmas shopping evening fundraising for Teddybears playgroup. Cakes, crafts, preserves, wood turning, bags, scarfs, refreshments and much more. 26 November Bedford Organ and Keyboard Club Concert

8-10.30pm Addison Centre, Kempston Members £4, Non-members £5. Pay at door. Concert with Chris Powell. Tel: 01234 344423 Web: www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/bedford2 28 November Pure Heart Fashion Show 7pm Oakley Village Hall Tickets £5 including Goodie Bag Featuring Ladies Italian designer clothing, collections Amari & Hollister. Stunning jewellery, scarves & accessories, exciting stalls perfect Christmas gifts. Raffle for The Macmillan Primrose Oncology Unit, Bedford. Tel: Tickets / Stalls Tabitha 07957 580331 Email: tabitha_h_walker@yahoo.co.uk Facebook-Pure Heart Jewellery Clothing & Accessories 28 November Christmas Shopping and Pamper Evening 7.30-10pm Riseley Lower School Tickets £3 on the door to include a drink and nibbles Browse the stalls and treat yourself to a pamper! 29 November Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra 7.30pm Bedford Corn Exchange Adults £11/£14, Students and Children £5 Highly acclaimed soloist Jaroslaw Nadrzycki. Borodin – In the Steppes of Central Asia Tchaikovsky – Violin Concerto in D. Major Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 in E minor. Tel: Bedford Box Office 01234 718112 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 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

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 39

GARDENING

Storm & Wind Damage to Trees

Following the high winds of the last few weeks it is important to have you trees checked for potential defects that could lead to your trees failure. Large trees in prominent location need to be inspected on annual basis. Tree owners have a “Duty of Care” to ensure their trees are safe which will also help should a tree fail and an insurance claim is made. Prevention of damage is always favorable but trees should also be checked following high winds.

What to look for Key indicators of tree damage and failure are: • Cracks and splits in structural sections of the tree. • Roots lifting at the base of the stem • Broken limbs in the canopy Structural damage can be limited with regular pruning, structural supports and preventative maintenance. The loss of a tree can cause serious Health & Safety issues as well as the potential loss of a beautiful tree from the landscape.

For more advice visit: www.bartlett.com or contact Bartlett Tree Experts on 01234 354 673 Visit us on Facebook at Bartlett Tree Experts – Bedford UK 40

GGAR ARDDEN ENIN INGG

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GARDENING

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

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

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EDFORD FORGOTTEN POLAR CONNECTION! A son Apsley was born at their new home in Lansdowne Road, Bedford (now marked with a Blue Plaque), on 2nd. January 1886. In June the following year the Colonel decided to retire from the regiment and move to the Cherry family owned estate at Denford in Berkshire. Five years later, on the death of an Aunt of his father, Colonel Cherry also inherited the larger Garrard family estates at Lamer Park near Wheathampstead. These had been in the ownership of that family for over 300 years. He decided to lease out Denford, move the whole family to Lamer and henceforth to adopt the family name Cherry-Garrard.

Apsley Cherry-Garrard. On 29th.January 1885 at St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church, Bedford , Colonel Apsley Cherry, himself the son of a General, but then Commanding Officer of the garrison at Kempston Barracks, married Evelyn Edith Sharpin the eldest child of Dr. Henry Wilson Sharpin, of 1. St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Square, Bedford (the house currently under renovation). He was House Surgeon at Bedford Infirmary, and had a private practice at his home. Evelyn was twenty five years younger than her suitor but her parents appear to have been entirely satisfied with the match. 44

The young Apsley CherryGarrard was a shy somewhat introverted character, happy in his own company but constantly living in the shadow of his accomplished military hero father and grandfather. After education at Winchester College and Oxford it became clear that due to medical problems, and in particular sight issues, he would be prevented from

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

embarking on an army career to emulate his father. Being interested in Antarctica he determined to join Scott on his Terra Firma Expedition of 1910 and although his first and second applications were turned down he persisted even offering a financial contribution towards the cost of the venture. Having finally been accepted he was given the job of Assistant Biologist responsible for the collection of eggs of the Emperor Penguin. The Terra Nova sailed from London with Cherry aboard on 1st. June 1910 and in July 1911 with Wilson and Bowers , the three men

hauled a sledge over 60 miles across the ice from base camp to Ross Island to collect unhatched penguin eggs. Frozen and exhausted they had their tent ripped from over their heads during a terrible blizzard and for two days the three men lay in their sleeping bags with the snow drifting over them. They sang hymns and simply waited to die but miraculously the blizzard subsided and the tent was discovered just a few yards away, caught up on some ice.

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 45

Prize crossword

ÂŁ25 Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before 16th November 2014. Prize Crossword, Beds Local, 6 Brooklands Road, Riseley, Bedford, MK44 1EE Across 1 seldom (6) 4 principal, boss (5) 8 builder (5) 9 acrimony, bad blood (3, 4) 10 complainer, grouch (7) 11 astound (4) 12 venomous snake (3) 14 joist (4) 15 wildcat (4) 18 investigate, intrude (3)

Name:

21 effortless (4) 23 ostracize (7) 25 dock, port (7) 26 countrified (5) 27 seventh zodiac sign (5) 28 utilize (6) Down 1 renovate (6) 2 courage (7) 3 track and field event (4, 4) 4 serene (4)

5 buffoon (5) 6 crime (U.S) (6) 7 North African country (5) 13 plucking-tool (8) 16 non-partisan (7) 17 deadly (6) 19 covet (5) 20 composition, mĂŠlange (6) 22 scour, clean (5) 24 physical, mental and spiritual discipline (4)

Tel:

Address: Last months winner was S English in Turvey. 46

New website

for Molyneux Jones. As Independent Funeral Directors Molyneux Jones on St Cuthbert’s Street approaches its third anniversary, it seemed right to update and launch a new website, designed by another local independent company, Little Blue Plane. Malcolm Jones, owner says “I have received very positive feedback on how easy it is to navigate the website. The website gives a good grounding of information, including ideas on funeral options available, pre-paid funeral plans and details of my open pricing. The open pricing is also welcomed by families who have been disappointed when contacting other funeral directors about pricing and have later found the initial quote soon spirals with “additional fees”. The only additions I have will be made through customer choices, such as Service Sheets, Floral Tributes or additional limousines.

On opening a new independent business in Bedford, Malcolm is glad of the positive response he has received. “Families have appreciated that from the initial call, I am the one who arranges and then conducts the funeral on the day. Also the ability to respond to funerals at short notice is often commented on by customers who appreciate using a small family business. Being flexible to fit around family requirements sets me apart from larger corporate funeral directors, who tend to fit funerals around their vehicle availability” Having worked in the funeral industry for over 16 years, Malcolm is available to offer funeral advice or answer any related questions you may have via the contact form on his website www.molyneuxjones.co.uk or on 01234 363191 (24hr contact number).

New boilers supplied and fitted from ÂŁ995 Combi heating system supplied and fitted from ÂŁ2495 Landlord certificates from ÂŁ35.00

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

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HOME

LOCAL KITCHEN COMPANY WIN NATIONAL AWARD Local company The Kitchen Boutique Ltd, have scooped a national design award. The competition was sponsored by The Federation of Kitchen and Bathroom Designers. With hundreds of entries throughout the UK, the company based in Renhold scooped the prestigious award after being invited to enter a previous project it completed in Biddenham. The beautiful cottage acknowledged as the one of the oldest in Biddenham underwent a complete overhaul with new flooring, ceiling and lighting, to capture a painted timber kitchen with granite surfaces. Darryl Brooks proprietor of The Kitchen Boutique commented ‘This is a very proud moment for The Kitchen Boutique and cements our position as possibly the best local kitchen company. We are a local bred talent with over 40 years knowledge of installing 50

kitchens, so it also nice to be recognized for our design skills at a national level’. The client Cathy Jago commented:

‘We had a great experience with Darryl Brooks and the Kitchen Boutique when we had a new kitchen this year. We were not sure of the details of the kitchen that we wanted and he was able to advise us and make useful suggestions. The layout had to be similar to our old kitchen but Darryl provided a couple of fundamental changes that improved the design which has made a huge difference to the size of the kitchen – making it look larger than before. We are pleased

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Before After with the products he chose for our floor, units and worktops. The whole process was smooth-running, with reliable tradesman brought in and all done according to schedule. Any problems were sorted out as we went along and Darryl has been on hand after the process was complete to assist us where needed. I would strongly recommend him and his team – they do a fabulous job!’ Having built strong relations with the UK’s top kitchen manufacturers, The Kitchen Boutique can plan, design and present to you unlimited images of your new kitchen with a complete breakdown of costs. Furthermore all this can be done in the comfort of your own home without the hassle of trudging around showrooms looking for something you rarely find! All it’s kitchens are purpose and custom built to order, to suit the dimensions of your kitchen and your requirements. The kitchen arrives fully assembled with the doors already fitted onto the unit, not ‘flat packed’ and picked off a shelf like so many kitchens these days, and all doors and drawers are soft close as standard! So if you are a brave enough you could fit it yourself!’

As it doesn’t have the overheads of showrooms, these savings can be passed onto it’s customers ensuring they receive a high end custom built kitchen at superstore prices. Talking to Darryl, this simple concept seems to appeal to the masses as orders come in not just from the general public but property developers and builders alike who traditionally might have bought from kitchen wholesalers, that’s how competitive their prices are. The Kitchen Boutique understands the need for flexibility to work around its customers, recognising that some customers may just want to purchase the kitchen cabinets and install it themselves. Alternatively it can offer full project management including all building works, electrics, plumbing and tiling. To this end The Kitchen Boutique prides itself as being the only IKBBI accredited installer of kitchens in Bedford. The IKBBI (installer of kitchens bedrooms and bathrooms) is the UK’s first and only ‘not for profit’ UK secretary of state sanctioned institute for professional installers, ensuring high standards ofinstallation, regulatory requirements and codes of practice. If you are considering a new kitchen any time soon please call Darryl on 01234 771660 to discuss your requirements.

www.thekitchenboutique.co.uk

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 51

Saturday 22nd November 2014 10.30am. - 3.30p.m. Grand Prize Draw - 1st prize a digital television & various other prizes Over 25 professional craft stalls. Refreshments including Ploughman’s Lunches, Father Christmas.

Great Day Out. Proceeds to Church Funds

ST MARK’S CHURCH & COMMUNITY CENTRE

Calder Rise/Avon Drive Bedford MK41 7UY

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 53

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Y COMMUNIT

The Royal British Legion Commemoration of World War 1 ‘The Legacy of War’ Lecture Series 2014-2015 The Royal British Legion has put together a series of talks to mark the Centenary of the outbreak of WW1, under the general heading ‘The Legacy of War’ Lecture series. We rightly memorialise those that gave their lives during the 1914-18 War. The purpose behind these talks is to look at what the 90% of those who fought and served on or near the front line did when they returned. They brought back with them technological and scientific skills and social awareness that enabled them collectively and individually to make an amazing and remarkable contribution that benefitted their own lives and the lives of others, the legacy of which remains today. This series of talks, helped by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of its ‘First World War: then and now’ programme, explores some of those themes. The first talk took place in the wonderful surroundings of the Great Hall of Bedford School on Monday 22 September 2014. The inaugural Speaker, Philomena Liggins, who is a volunteer at Bletchley Park, shared her research into the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY) in an engaging and informative talk that took us from the early days of the Yeomanry in 1907 through their exploits during WW1 and beyond. Ms Liggins had a delightfully light but knowledgeable style of delivery which meant that her 45 minute talk sped by, leaving us all wanting more. Rebuffed by the War Office on the grounds of being ill-equipped and insufficiently trained, these irrepressible women at their own expense made the trip to the Belgian

battlefields. Trained in first aid, radio telegraphy, horsemanship and driving, they made a significant contribution to saving the lives of thousands of soldiers. By the end of the War, in addition to General Service and Victory medals, they had been awarded 18 Military Medals by the British, 1 Legion d’Honneur, 1 Croix de Guerre with Palm and 32 Croix de Guerre by the French, and 1 Ordre de Leopold 1st Class and 6 Ordre de Leopold 2nd Class by the Belgians. Not a bad haul for women ‘ill-equipped and insufficiently trained’ for Front Line Work. Their story did not end in 1918. Their skills had made an impression on a serving soldier, Captain Colin McVean Gubbins. In the Second World War, he was to head the Special Operations Executive and he recognised that the character and abilities of these women would make them ideally suited to the work of the SOE. The women who made up the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry helped change society’s perception of women being the ‘weaker sex’ and paved the way for women to take a more prominent role in society after the War. Further talks in the series include: 20 October 2014 The Bedfordshire Regiment during the Great War – Steve Fuller The Bedfordshire Regiment was heavily engaged in the Great War, from the opening battle to the very last shots. Regimental researcher Steven Fuller will tell the story of the war from the perspective of the regiment and share some of the individuals’ stories from our local county regiment.

COMMUNITY 24 November 2014 Ungentlemanly Conduct – Listening to the enemy in WWI – Mike Chapman The importance of the ULTRA intelligence to the Allied war effort in WW2 is well known, but this talk will look at incidents such as the sabotaging of German undersea cables and the “Zimmermann Telegram’ to illustrate how that later success owed much to lessons learned from the interception of communications traffic, code breaking, interpretation and the discrete use of the intelligence gained in the Great War. 26 January 2015 Creative and Destructive Forces – how WW1 changed ordinary lives – Philip Sawford War changes society and sometimes leaves us with positive outcomes. This talk will look at some of the developments in WW1 that altered people’s lives for the good.

23 February 2015 The development of wireless radio – Ben Allen and Elaine Richards This talk will look at the development in wireless technology and how radio operators returning after the war used their new found skills, among other things, to entertain their neighbours. 23 March 2015 The Indian Army – Sadu Singh Gill and Amrik Singh Jamu BEM Soon after the declaration of War, several Expeditionary Forces of the Indian Army were deployed to different war zones including Europe, Africa, Mesopotamia and the Middle East. This talk will explore the important contribution that the Indian Army made to the WW1 effort. The venue of the each talk is The Great Hall, Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford MK40 2TU commencing at 7:30pm and each will last about an hour.

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Kempston Support Group for the Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger are holding a Christmas Fayre & Coffee Morning at All Saints Church Hall, Church End, Kempston on Saturday 29th November 2013 from 10.00am to 12.30pm Admission £1.00 includes Coffee, Tea or Soft drink Stalls include: Christmas cards, Goodies & Gifts. Books, Jewellery, Homemade cakes, Pickles, Chutneys and Jams, Tombola, Raffle and much more.

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National Adoption Week

Monday 3rd November – Saturday 9th November Why adopt? You will be giving a loving home to a child who can no longer be brought up by their birth parents. When you adopt, you take on all legal rights and responsibilities for the child. It is a lifelong commitment and, like all parenting, means sticking with it through both good and hard times. It’s not always easy but, as many adoptive parents will tell you, it is extraordinarily rewarding. Can anyone adopt? We help match every child to the right family, taking into account the child’s emotional, health and development needs. We find children do best in a family that reflects their ethnic identity as closely as possible. So we welcome a wide range of people with different backgrounds and experiences. You must be: • Over 21 years old • Have patience, and be flexible and energetic • Have the determination to positively transform a child’s life. If you have a record for an offence or a caution, you must be honest with your adoption agency, even if this happened many years ago. People with certain types of criminal records cannot adopt, including those who have a criminal conviction or have been cautioned for specified criminal offences against children or certain sexual offences against adults. Myths about who can adopt • Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to own your home, have a job or be under 40 to adopt a child. 62

• You don’t have to be married either, or in a relationship, or heterosexual. • You don’t have to be a parent already or qualified in any specific way. • A disability is not necessarily an obstacle to adopting.

COMMUNITY What to do next 10 steps of adoption 1. Express your interest Just thinking or definitely considering adoption? Contact your local authority (or your Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland) or a voluntary adoption agency. All agencies have to work to agreed standards and are inspected regularly. It’s fine to talk to several, but you can only register with one. www.baaf.org.uk/agencies is an easy to use agency locator. Don’t be put off if an agency isn’t recruiting or there’s no information event in the near future. There’s a shortage of adopters across the UK so persevere! 2. Preparing to adopt You may be asked to complete a form and invited to an information event where you can talk to social workers and adopters, or perhaps have an informal 1:1 meeting. You can then decide whether you want to register your interest in going further. At this stage you are selecting an agency you trust to take you through the assessment process.. 3. You are assessed The formal assessment process is required by law and carried out by a social worker. It is sometimes referred to as a home study. The assessing social worker will visit you at home and you will talk through why you want to adopt, the kind of child you would best be able to care for and your overall suitability. You will also be invited to attend more detailed training to prepare you for adoption. In England this is known as Stage Two and you can expect it to take around four months. 4. Going to panel Your social worker writes up a report for presentation to an adoption panel. You will be invited to attend. Remember that most people who go to panel are approved! The panel makes the recommendation, but it will be the agency that approves you. 5. Being linked with a child As so many children are waiting, agencies are encouraged to explore linking you to a child or children before final approval. If there doesn’t seem to be a good match locally, the

net is spread wider through Exchange Days , Adoption Activity Days and national family-finding services such as BAAF’s Be My Parent, or Adoption UK’s Children Who Wait. If you have been approved but not been matched after three months you should be referred to the Adoption Register for England. Ask your social worker about this. 6. A match is made Once the link is made, you will be given more information about the child or children, including their family background, a history of their early years, why the child came into care, the child’s characteristics and any particular needs the child may have. When you have agreed the match, you will attend a matching panel, which will look at whether or not to recommend the match. Once again, the final approval will be given by your agency.. 7. Meeting the child You may have seen a video of your child, or even played together at an Adoption Activity Day. Formal introductions must wait till the match has been approved. They are well planned by the social worker, yourself and the foster carer (assuming the child is in foster care). You can expect to visit the foster carer’s house and plan outings, and the child will visit you at home, including overnight stays. Gradually, you will be getting to know each other and the child will move in as soon as you’re all ready. 8. Moving in An exciting and daunting time for all concerned! It doesn’t take much to imagine the mix of emotions this can evoke. Most importantly, it marks the beginning of your life together as a family. You are entitled to statutory adoption leave and pay, and will continue to be supported by your social worker. 9. Making the adoption legal After a minimum of ten weeks you can apply to the courts for an adoption order. This is the final legal step. It means the child will be legally yours and can take your surname. 10. Your life together Parenting is one of the most rewarding and most challenging jobs in life. There are bound to be ups and downs! Adoption support is widely available to see you through, so please ask your agency when you need help.

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 63

Y COMMUNIT

It is Adoption Week from 3rd – 9th November and Bedford Borough Council is using the campaign to highlight its need for more prospective adoptive parents to come forward. There are currently 24 children in the borough waiting to be matched to an adoptive parent/family. In the past six months, 15 children have been adopted in Bedford Borough. It only takes 81 days at Bedford Borough Council to match a child to prospective adoptive families once court authority is given, that compares to the England average of 210 days. Hopeful parents looking to adopt children in Bedford Borough are currently enjoying the shortest waiting times - Bedford Borough is ranked number one in the eastern region and in the top five in the country for achieving better results for their local children.

Cllr Sue Oliver, Executive Member for Children’s Social Care said: “We are determined to find adoptive parents for those children on our list. Although Bedford Borough’s new Adoption Service is doing amazingly well at the moment, there is always a need for more families who can offer a loving and supportive environment. If you have ever considered providing a home for an adopted child please get in touch now.” Anyone may be able to adopt a child as long as they are 21 or over – adoptive parents can be single, married, a same sex couple, or the partner of the child’s parent etc. Children from various ethnic origins have been adopted, including White British, White European, Black African, Asian, Mixed Ethnic origins. Those seeking more information on adoption can contact Bedford Borough Council’s Adoption Team on 01234 718718 or email adoptionandfostering@bedford.gov.uk

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Run Safe SPORTS

As the nights get darker you may feel a little worried about venturing out. Here are some ideas to keep you safe:

Wear white clothing with reflective panels and have reflective strips on your shoes to help you be seen. You could also wear a head torch. Face oncoming traffic when running on a road with no pavement, except on a blind corner when you should move to the opposite side. Or avoid roads with no pavements completely.

Vary your route as always running in the same place at the same time can make you vulnerable to assailants, and note road names as you pass. Choose a well lit route with an even surface.

Consider running with a friend or friends, this will keep you motivated and help you to stay safer. Always tell someone where you are going and approximately what time you will be back. Consider taking a mobile phone and personal alarm. You could also try free apps such as Glympse which allow you to share your location with people so they can track you. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t listen to music while you are running as you need to be able to hear oncoming cars, bikes and dogs. Or if you have one locally, you could try running on a floodlit athletics track. By Susan Brookes-Morris

SPORTS

Bedford Rugby Club The nights have quickly drawn in, the climate appears to have dropped beneath zero and that hat and scarf combination that was the height of fashion in the 80s has been dug out of that hidden draw. Yes, it’s that time of year again, so wrap up warm and get out of the house to watch Fireworks both on and off the pitch at Bedford Blues. The annual Fireworks Display on Friday 7th November will kick off Goldington Road’s events list with the loudest and brightest of bangs. Gates open at 6pm for the best show in town and there will be plenty of time to take advantage of the funfair and on-site bars before the children’s fireworks start at 7pm with a host of other attractions and activities planned. This year’s main display will follow shortly after and is set to be a colourful extravaganza with fireworks of every imagination, lighting up Bedford for a truly unforgettable evening at the home of the Blues. Families are welcomed at this community venue with Under 4s FREE and Adults just £5, make sure you arrive before 8pm with strictly no entry thereafter, to book the hottest ticket in town just visit www. bedfordrugby.co.uk for more details.

Back on the field, November sees the return of Friday Night Lights at the Blues with two evening games on the horizon. Floodlit games prove a real favourite at Goldington Road with chance to watch quality professional rugby and warm up with a pint and pie in one of the many bars. Bedford Blues will be taking on Yorkshire Carnegie on Friday 14th November and Doncaster Knights on Friday 28th November with tickets available to purchase on the gate or through the website. The Doncaster Knights match marks a special occasion for the Blues as it is their annual Movember match. Each year Bedford raise money for prostate cancer as the players grow their best facial hair efforts in an attempt to raise local and national sponsorship. The best and most humorous moustache traditionally wins the most plaudits and helps raise both money and awareness for a very worthy charity. Make sure you get yourself down to Goldington Road on Friday 28th November to check out what styles the boys are sporting this year. For more information and to catch up on all the latest news and views at Bedford Blues visit the website at www.bedfordrugby.co.uk.

To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 69

SPORTS

Sports & Social Clubs If you would like to promote a local sports or social club please email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk Church Lane Community Table Tennis Club

Church Lane Community Centre Mondays 7.30 – 9.30pm: 16 years old plus Wednesdays 11am – 1pm: 50 years old plus Thursdays 7.30 – 9.30pm: 16 years old plus Open every week Michael Fox, 07837 975267, chair.churchlanecttc@gmail.com, www.churchlanecttc.weebly.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Church-LaneCommunity-Table-Tennis-Club/182768688569849 Twitter: www.twitter.com/ChurchLaneCTTC

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/

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

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 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

Bedford Town FC

It has been an interesting start to the season for the Eagles. Many people will be disappointed with the position the club find themselves in, however, recently signs have been positive that something may just come out of this season. Craig Adams has been on a run of bad results, which included poor defeats to Potters Bar Town, Leighton Town, Aylesbury United and North Greenford United. The frustration was added to at the start of September when the Eagles crashed out of the FA Cup at home to AFC Rushden and Diamonds 3-0, in what was always going to be a difficult tie. Ten days later and more cup disappointment was served up with a penalty shoot out defeat to Leighton Town in the League cup. However, in recent weeks things have started to improve. At the end of September a sole Will Summerfield goal, on loan from MK Dons, gave Town a hard fort 1-0 win against flying Egham Town. This was followed up by a flamboyant performance at Aylesbury FC last week, running out 5-1 winners. Tom Liversedge grabbing a couple of well taken goals before in the second half, Paul Cooper, Jeff Woodward and Rob Parker added to the enjoyment. The Eagles now face a tough tie at home in the FA Trophy against Chipstead FC before home games against Marlow and Daventry.

SPORTS

inside and outside. For further information or to book, please contact Gerry Edmunds on 01234 381213. The Supporters are also hosting a festive quiz night on Friday 28th November. Teams of up to six in number are welcome along and entrance is £5 per head. After 28th October the Eagles face just two home games left in 2014, before entertaining a number of teams throughout January at the Eyrie. For further details please visit www.bedfordeagles.net

Off the field there is still plenty going on. Each Sunday the Supporters Club hold a car boot sale. The next dates for these are Sunday 2nd November and 7th December. Entrance is 50p for over 16s (£1 before 10am) and FREE for juniors. Stalls are £6 with spaces available To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk 71