Local news from around Bedford Borough

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Shave it like Soph

Helping the fight against cancer

Bedford College supporting National Apprenticeship Week

BEDFORD College played host to a wide range of employers as part of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW February 6-10) at an event aimed at parents

On Thursday February 9, at the Cauldwell Street campus of The Bedford Group, families heard about great careers via apprenticeships, without student debt

Gina Bubbins, Business Development Director (far right), whose team liaises with thousands of companies across Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes said: “Apprenticeships offer fantastic routes into employment for people from as young as 16, to a mature entry level We want parents to understand that this is a quality alternative to university for the bright and able who want to start a career path ”

Joining a panel to talk to parents about the fantastic opportunities was inspiring former apprentice Kathryn Jack (above right) who started as Level 2 Business Administration at the University of Bedfordshire, then progressed to Cilex law school and

is now works for Hook Tangza consultancy She is pictured with Gina who supported her pathway Bedford employers represented included: Lockheed Martin global giants; Hazel Kaye hair and beauty of Oakley; FCDOs (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development

Office service; BCA - major motor industry; Axis Electronics. There are also vacancies with The Bedford College Group which employs 700 people across the region If you would like to know more about apprenticeships visit bedfordcollegegroup ac uk

Clapham resident Lizzie Wiggins’ had her head shaved at Oakley Motorcycle Club’s weekly meeting on Thursday, February 2 Back in July 2018, her long-time friend Sophie Williams was diagnosed with Stage 4 Anal Cancer and is now managing the devastating news that her cancer has spread to Stage 4 secondary cancer.

Lizzie and several of Sophie’s ‘besties’ decided to support her and raise money for Cancer Research UK Lizzies’ fund raising idea was that having her hair cut off on a motorcycle club night was a good idea!

Club members revved up and donated nearly £600 for the head shave The running total raised by friends and supporters so far is nearly £7000

Meanwhile Sophie is still undergoing chemotherapy treatment and she is asking you to donate and support Cancer Research by going to: https://fundraise cancerresearchuk org/page/team-soph-yeahbutnobutt

WEDDING STATIONERY

Sophie and Lizzie.

College merger cements its position

THE Bedford College Group is cementing its position as No 1 provider of post-16 education in the region as it merges with Central Beds College

While other FE colleges across the UK have in recent years fallen short in managing finance issues, the Group maintained its ‘Outstanding’ health grade, meaning its income remains strong

With the merger with Central Beds, the Group will rise from a £60 Million a year college to an £76 Million organisation with staff numbers rising from 1,000+ to 1,400 As part of that step up, structural changes in management have already been implemented across the Group in Bedford and Northampton Pryce CBE remains CEO, a post he h for nearly 25 years, but the title of Pr has been allocated to the indiv charged with heading up the Bedfor Northants (Tresham College campu

Central Beds College Principal Sara Mortimer (pictured) is welcomed to the Group

“Our mission is to be an indispensable resource for the communities we serve across

Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire,” added

Ian

Central Bedfordshire College, which recently celebrated its 60th anniversary, serves communities across southern Central Bedfordshire and Luton, with campuses in Dunstable, Houghton Regis and Leighton Buzzard For both learners and staff at Central Bedfordshire College it is ‘business as usual’ with classes and courses continuing as expected

Behind the scenes, the management teams and governing bodies will be working closely together to ensure a seamless transition, and to put plans in place to expand the educato meet the future skills

Central Bedfordshire and mmunities

James Crabbe JP, Chair Corporation at CBC, “I am delighted to say t the Governing Body f Central Bedfordshire College agreed to a merger with The Bedford College Group The merger will allow our

vision of skills and vocational education for our region, which we as a College have developed over many years, to become an actuality, with enormous benefits for our learners, our staff, local employers and the community of Bedfordshire as a whole I am confident that this merger of our College, with its strong culture of an inclusive, calm and caring environment for learners and staff, will fit well with the ethos of The Bedford College Group, and could become a model for mergers in the FE sector ”

Allan Schofield, Chair of The Corporation at TBCG added: “The Bedford College Group is delighted to have been selected as the merger partner for Central Bedfordshire College It brings together the two largest post-16 educators in the local authority area and creates a financially strong institution which will allow us to expand the educational opportunities to everyone in Central Bedfordshire and Luton ”

Ian Pryce CBE, Chief Executive TBCG continued: “We already have a great relationship with the College but this will allow us to deepen and build that relationship to create something very special for our community, employers, staff and students ”

Girls’ School students having international success

BEDFORD Girls’ School sporting

alumnae are continuing to thrive on the international sporting stage

The School has boasted students in elite competition including representation at the Tokyo Olympics, with some going a step further and grabbing medalwinning headlines at the Commonwealth Games We are now pleased to be adding more cricket and hockey successes to our honours

Northamptonshire cricketer, Florence Miller, has signed her first professional contract with Sunrisers Cricket Team The talented batter has regularly featured in the Academy side and was ever-present in the recent Charlotte Edwards Cup competition

Florence reflected on signing her first professional contract: “Being offered my first professional contract is so exciting, and I can’t wait to get going this season! It’s also great to start my career with Jodi alongside me, since we’ve been playing together at Northants for years now, so to

begin this journey together is special ”

After completing her A Levels in 2022, Florence secured a place at Loughborough University and is currently studying Management with a placement year BGS 2021 alumna, Maddie Axford, has been selected for the 2023 GB Women’s Elite Development Programme (EDP) squad Maddie will be joined by high-potential U18 and U21 English players, who will continue to develop their tournament hockey skills and look to secure a place in the team for the next women’s Junior World Cup in Chile in December In April 2022, Maddie and her England Hockey U21 team claimed a historic bronze at the Junior Women’s World Cup in Potchefstroom, South Africa

Maddie is currently studying International Media and Communications at the University of Nottingham, where she also represents the university in the BUCS British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS)

Christmas Tr ee Festival announces theme for 2023

FOLLOWING a magnificent final record of £20,269.82 raised at last year’s festival, ‘Kings & Queens’ is to be the theme of the 2023 Festival, a subject that gives plenty of scope for imagination, from the forthcoming Coronation to the King of Rock & Roll.

Aragon Lacemakers pictured, are seen receiving the trophy for the ‘People’s Choice’ Best Adults’ decorated tree sponsored by Lane & Holmes Estate Agents Margaret Oakley, Festival Chair Margaret said: “I am sure the Aragon Lacemakers will be one of the first groups to start working early on how to interpret this year’s theme so that they can continue the long tradition of lacemaking in Bedfordshire ”

Margaret added: “The Festival has become so successful that we are looking for a Vice Chair to share the work and enjoyment of holding this annual community event at St Paul’s church ”

Anyone interested, please email: treefestival@stpaulschurchbedford org uk or telephone 07909 521997

Meanwhile the Festival Committee are always looking for new volunteers especially during the Festival week, this year’s dates are 6-10 December with set up on 4/5 December

“Thank you for making me feel so welcome so that I too could enjoy stewarding at this wonderful event, not just the trees but also all the performers,” said a new volunteer

Florence Miller. Madie Axford.

bpha appoints new CEO

bpha have appointed Richard Hill as its next Chief Executive Officer Richard joins bpha from One Housing, where he has been CEO for over five years

Prior to this, Richard was CEO at Spectrum Housing and has held senior leadership roles at the Homes and Communities Agency and the Housing Corporation Richard is also the nonexecutive Chair of drugs and alcohol rehabilitation charity, Phoenix Futures, and is currently the Vice Chair of the G15 group of housing associations

Paul Leinster, bpha Chair, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Richard to bpha. He brings extensive knowledge of the sector and is ideally placed to build on the excellent nine-year tenure of our retiring CEO, Kevin Bolt, in leading a successful organisation that is proud to be driven by its social purpose. Richard shares the desire of the bpha team to provide excellent, value for money services for our customers, and maintain and develop affordable, energy efficient, sustainable housing into the future.”

Awar ded for his dedication No 10 visit to star t National Appr enticeships Week

A DETECTIVE who led a fraud investigation involving the theft of £1 7m of antiques from a Bedfordshire pensioner and the team who helped lock up an abusive couple for a total of 35 years have been commended

Investigation Officer Dave Brecknock received a Chief Constable’s Commendation for his work investigating the theft of dozens of valuable jade and ivory ornaments over a six-year period

The three ringleaders were jailed for a total of 16 years

Also praised were the team who brought to justice a couple who had sexually and mentally abused children Detective Sergeant Rebecca Breed and Detective Constable Nina Bradbury were commended for their work in securing lengthy prison sentences in relation to the non-recent sexual offences, physical abuse and neglect

They were among 19 officers and staff celebrated at Bedfordshire Police’s Long Service and Chief Commendation ceremony held on Thursday

The event celebrated outstanding work and marked the long service of 10 police officers and staff

who started their careers more than 20 years ago including Special Constable Liberato Lionetti (pictured) who has dedicated thousands of hours of his own time to support community policing and training Police cadets during 19 years of service

Police staff member Beth Cavill was also recognised for her life-saving efforts to save an elderly man on her way to work

Chief Constable Trevor Rodenhurst said: “At a time where policing is coming under heavy scrutiny, it was great to celebrate the positive and I would like to thank my officers and staff for everything they do which often goes under the radar

“We heard stories of outstanding contributions to protecting the public ”

Officers from the Armed Policing Unit, Public Protection Unit, Crime, Intelligence and Community teams were also recognised, while officers and staff from the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU) and Joint Protective Services were among those to receive long service and good conduct medals

THE Bedford College Group CEO Ian Pryce CBE and Executive Director Debbie Houghton visited No 10 for a high level event which tied in with the start of National Apprenticeships Week on February 6.

They were at Downing Street with the education delivery unit to discuss the way ahead as representatives of the largest multicampus college delivering apprenticeships in the South East Midlands region

Also to mark the launch of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) The Bedford College Group joined a reception at the Houses of Parliament for all those organisations who have been short-listed for an award in the FE Week and AELP Awards

The Bedford College Group are finalists in the Apprenticeship Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Provider Recognition Award category

“This was an exciting day showcasing The Bedford College

Helen honor ed by the King

Group at the highest level for apprenticeships across the region

“Our Group is well established as the premier provider of the widest range of apprenticeships across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire.

“These invitations and the nomination for this award indicates the high esteem in which the Group has come to be held under the long leadership of our CEO Ian Pryce CBE

“We work closely with employers large and small, and major local organisations to increase the opportunities for young people,” said Executive Director of Apprenticeships and Business Development, Debbie Houghton

Later there will be the AAC Apprenticeship Awards and Gala dinner at the ICC in Birmingham on March 14, alongside the AAC Annual Apprenticeship Conference at the same venue on March 13 and 14

HELEN NELLIS CVO CStJ, retired HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, was awarded the CVO (Commander of the Royal Victorian Order) by HM The Queen in her final Birthday Honours List during the Platinum Jubilee Year in 2022 for exceptional services to the monarch and to the country

Helen was presented with the honour by King Charles III at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, accompanied by her husband Professor Joseph Nellis and her children

On receiving the honour Helen said: “It was a great privilege to serve our Queen and the County of Bedfordshire for eleven years

It was a privilege to accept this honour from HM the King on behalf of every person in Bedfordshire who works to build a kinder and fairer society where all can feel valued ”

Susan Lousada, HM LordLieutenant of Bedfordshire, said:

“This is a richly deserved recognition for a lovely lady who has given 11 years of selfless service to Bedfordshire ”

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Bedford business raises thousands

for Sue

R yder through a series of charity challenges

ASSURE Consulting Ltd, based in Bedford has raised £5,000 for palliative, neurological and bereavement support charity, Sue Ryder, during a year-long partnership

Sue Ryder, which operates St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger was chosen as the consulting company’s charity of the year by their 50-strong team of staff at the start of 2022

Since, the big-hearted employees have taken on a number of fantastic fundraising feats, including scaling two of the highest peaks in Wales within 24 hours, completing five or 10k at the Bedford Running Festival and walking under the stars at Sue Ryder’s Starlight Hike event

grounds for staff, volunteers and patients to enjoy

In total, Assure Consulting Ltd have donated £5,000, which is the equivalent of around 238 hours of expert care for patients supported by Sue Ryder Nurses, healthcare assistants, doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, complementary therapists, social workers and bereavement support workers

Lee Mason, Managing Director at Assure Consulting Ltd, said: “We have supported Sue Ryder over the past year following the care they provided to a valued member of our team in his final weeks towards the end of 2021

DURING the late Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee weekend in June 2022, a spectacular 21-metre sculpture, featuring 350 British native trees, was created outside Buckingham Palace as the centre-piece of the weekend’s celebrations and the culmination of The Queen’s Green Canopy project

Queen’s Park Community Organisation was one of three groups in Bedfordshire to receive a gift of one of the trees used in the sculpture

Following conversations with local individuals, groups, and communities, it was agreed to plant

the tree in Queen’s Park, outside All Saints church, a short distance away from the Queen’s Park Orchard around which the Organisation was formed

A planting ceremony took place on Saturday, January 28 at the church The event was attended by representatives of all faiths, the majority of whom gave a short speech to the large crowd who attended

The actual planting was performed the Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Mrs Susan Lousada, ably assisted by numerous others

In addition, they organised a staff bake-off, spent a day on the golf course where fines were paid in the form of donations to the charity, hosted a World Cup sweepstake and participated in Sue Ryder St John Hospices’ curry and quiz night

A group of staff also went to the Moggerhanger-based hospice to help tidy the

“We are so pleased that we did Yes, because it was well deserved but also the experience has been so rewarding for the whole team

“We have taken part in series of organised events and spent some time at the Moggerhanger hospice helping out with gardening and experiencing first-hand the kind of care that is offered

“Each year we support a different charity

and 2022, with Sue Ryder, has been the most rewarding so far ”

Nick Burr, Senior Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, said: “We’re so grateful to Assure Consulting Ltd for choosing to support us over the last 12 months There are many ways corporates can help and support Sue Ryder and Assure has always been keen on getting involved at every opportunity - they really have been a great team to partner with The funds raised will make a huge difference in helping us to be there when it matters for families going through the most difficult times of their lives ”

Corporate partners play a key role in working to ensure that Sue Ryder can be there for people during the most difficult times of their lives

If you would like to find out more, you can get in touch by contacting the Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice fundraising team on 01767 642 410 or by emailing stjohnsfundraising@ sueryder org

Hospice hear ts hung in memor y of loved ones

JOANNA Bampton, 54 and her niece Charlotte Fanthorpe, 21, have raised more than £2,200 for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger, with their beautiful memorial tree located in Wilstead Burial Ground

People who have experienced the death of someone close to them are able to come to the grounds, write their loved one’s name or a message on a heart, and place it on the tree The wooden hearts are decorated and supplied free-ofcharge by Joanna and Charlotte, with people being invited to make a donation to the local hospice

INCREDIBLE CARE

Joanna and Charlotte chose to fundraise for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice after witnessing the incredible care that Paul Bampton, Joanna’s husband and Charlotte’s uncle, and Sue Huckle, Joanna’s sister and Charlotte’s mum, received from the hospice team in their final days

Joanna said: “Sue was such a loving person, always smiling and always happy She sadly passed away three years ago from breast cancer Paul, my husband of 21

years, passed away in June last year after a short battle with pancreatic cancer which had spread to his liver Paul was such a special person and a loving caring husband who is very greatly missed “Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice supported Charlotte and I through the most difficult time and were there for us every step of the way We will never forget how fantastic the team were there

“To thank them for the care that Sue and Paul received, Charlotte and I decided we wanted to fundraise for them We created a memorial tree in Wilstead Burial Ground in memory of Sue, Paul and all of our lost loved ones This year, over 200 memorial hearts were placed on the tree, in what has become an annual tradition

“We would like to extend our thanks to the residents of Wilstead who have helped to make the memory tree a special tribute to our angels in heaven and for donating money to such a worthwhile cause

“Thank you to the Wilstead Parish Council too who kindly gave their permission for the hearts to be displayed ”

Wixams’ station plans get passed at last

by John Guinn – L ocal Democracy Reporter

The committee voted in favour on Monday, February 20, 2023, without comments or questions about either planning application for the project

However, Cllr Graeme Coombes did address the committee as the ward councillor to support the ap cations

He also put forward so recommendations to offic at the council’s transport a highways teams to addre buses and car parking

“I am delighte Councillors have tonigh approved plans for Wixam Station This is the lates step in a long and tortuou journey to ensure tha Wixams residents get the station that they were always promised

“It’s now imperative that as well as getting on with the construction of the station, the Council acts immediately to ensure we have bus services linking the station to the wider community, to avoid additional and unnecessary car journeys

“I also want to see a controlled parking scheme in place immediately outside the station zone, so that residents living nearby aren’t plagued by on

The one stop shop for your next garden room

street parking congestion by drivers trying to avoid using the designated station car park

After 11 years of delay to Wixams Station, it looks as though at long last we are getting nearer to the scheduled completion date of December 2024 hope that when the station opens, the trains are more punctual!”

Jon Shortland, the council’s chief officer for planning, infrastructure and economic growth, said: “Picking up on those two non-planning points, councillor Coombes – we are working with colleagues in the transport and highways section, both on bus routes and on parking regimes in the area around the station “So those points are certainly in our minds nd on our agenda,” he aid Planning applications for the station (and car park) and the platforms had to be submitted separately as the platforms are outside of the Wixams outline consent area

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HARPUR Centre has introduced the first Harpur Community Awards, to recognise those who have made significant contributions within the town The winners were celebrated yesterday at an award ceremony held at Harpur Centre

After successfully winning 2 national awards with REVO, who oversee the shopping centre industry in late 2022, The Harpur Centre and its Landlord wanted to next recognise the dedicated members of our local community in Bedford so, they launched the first ever Harpur Community Awards

The three categories that the Bedford public were asked to vote on were Lifetime Achiever, Green Award and Young Achiever Voting took place both through the centre’s social media pages and at the Centre for individuals who had gone above and beyond in their respective categories The judging panel reviewed the entries and attended the award ceremony held at the Harpur Centre on Tuesday, January 24, to personally present the awards Samantha Laycock, Harpur Centre Manager, Amy Jones, Head of Planning at Tellon Capital and Councillor Vann, Town Centre Councillor handed out the awards to the worthy winners

Samantha Laycock, Harpur Centre Manager commented, “It has been so important for us to recognise those in our community who go above and beyond every day to make our town a better place

for everyone The Harpur Community Awards were set up following the centres own success’ in winning two industry awards in the past twelve months These awards were hard earned by the wider centre teams and it became very apparent to us that hard work and dedication deserve recognition We couldn’t be prouder of our winners and are so thankful for the positive contribution they make to our community”

Amy Jones from Tellon Capital commented, “It was an honour to present the awards today to three incredible individuals who are a real credit to their town We are so proud to have the Harpur Centre in the heart of Bedford It is a Centre that is well embedded in the local community and involved with everything that goes on in the town As such, it seemed only right to honour those dedicated individuals within the community who strive every day to make a positive difference “

YOUNG ACHEIVER

The Young Acheiver Award went to Urban Judge Urban leads the company as CEO and volunteers at Youth TV which is a local community project based in Bedford He is responsible for Programming and Volunteers and is the lead on outreach and engagement Community Engagement is at the heart of what Youth TV wants to achieve by bringing

television for Young People

The Green Award was presented to Cory Walker Cory is the Community Lead for Plastic Free Bedford and brought a national campaign Refill to Bedford He ensured that the centres water fountain was famous on the Refill App so people know where in Bedford to refill for free when on the go He co-ordinated Bedford’s Great Big Green Week by organising a variety of events and activities aimed at engaging local people with the environment and he led Bedford’s first Sustainability Week taking further action on this important issue

The Lifetime Achiever Award was awarded to an individual who has dedicated their life to the betterment of the Bedford community, Sharon De Leonardis Sharon’s energy and enthusiasm and contribution to her community is truly valued She is motivated by the fact that, what she does, brings out the best in people, empowering them to be the best people they can be With a passion for the Arts, and having a focus on supporting the local community, Sharon successfully set up and became CEO of SpectaculArts’ in 2019, whose main objective is to create events to enrich and enhance its local community by being a one stop destination for all diverse and inclusive events for Bedford

All three worthy winners took home £100 worth of vouchers from our stores as well as their award

THE Bedford Town Deal Board has announced that four further business cases, which were submitted in 2022, have been approved by Central Government, giving the

These projects include the Midland Road regeneration and public realm improvements, the regeneration and restoration of St Paul’s Square, and improvements to the Greyfriars junction, helping to bring forward new developments

The Midland Road regeneration project will include enhancements to shopfronts and buildings in the area to help regenerate this important gateway to the town and make it a more inviting route between the rail station and centre of Bedford While the public realm improvements will create an attractive, vibrant corridor and will improve walking routes by reducing the carriageway width of Midland Road and installing new street furniture

The regeneration of St Paul’s Square will involve a comprehensive redevelopment of the square, as well as further work in Harpur Square, to support a variety of outdoor events, activities and performances

The objective of this project is to improve visitor experience, increase vibrancy and footfall and diversify the town centre’s offer to promote Bedford as a visitor destination

green light to start delivering the projects

Lastly, the improvements to the Greyfriars road network will

enhance pedestrian and cycling routes as well as the layout of the road junction itself It will also open up space for further development and regeneration of the former Police Station site (owned by Bedfordshire Police) and help alleviate the rising demand for housing and introduce more opportunities for town centre living

The Greyfriars project is being joint funded by the Bedford Town Deal, which will contribute £2 13m, and Bedfordshire Police, who are contributing £250,000

The approval of these business cases marks a significant step forward in the implementation of the Bedford Town Deal and is a testament to the hard work of local stakeholders, including members of the Bedford Town Deal Board Samantha Laycock, Chair of the Bedford Town Deal Board, said:

“So much hard work as gone into each business case, it is great to see they have all been formally approved on their first submission Revitalising these key town centre gateways will enhance our shared vision for people to visit, live, do business from and help visitors to stay for longer in a higher quality environment ”

Celebrating ten years of helping dementia sufferers have better lives

AWARD winning Bedford-based charity, Tibbs Dementia Foundation, celebrated its tenth birthday on February 6, 2023, and has, with the help of its amazing team of skilled volunteers and staff, already helped thousands of people across the county to –live better with dementia

From its inception in 2013, it has strived to offer a wide range of specialized local services and activities, from Music 4 Memory and Cognitive Stimulation Therapy to a whole range of sporting and leisure activities, all designed to provide opportunities for people at every stage of dementia to have some fun, make new friendships and create new memories

Being awarded The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2018 was a particular highlight and encouraged Tibbs to be even more ambitious as it increased the number of classes across Bedfordshireand organised larger events like the Big Sing and Country Park Stride Out, art exhibitions and trips to the seaside.

Reflecting on Tibbs 10-year journey, CEO Sarah Russell said: “Our hard-working volunteers and staff have done an amazing job, bringing hope and support to families across Bedford Borough and more recently Central Bedfordshire.

“We always recognise that every family’s dementia journey and experience is unique but our mix of activities, designed to support cognitive, physical, emotional, and overall wellbeing, does help reduce people’s isolation and improve quality of life

“Tibbs is determined to create dementia friendly communities across the whole of Bedfordshire. If you join us, we will be there to support you and your family every step of the way ”

If you or someone you know has dementia and you would like further information about living better with dementia through Tibbs work; or to donate to or support Tibbs Dementia Foundation, please visit tibbsdementia.co.uk, call 01234 210993 or email the Tibbs Team at contact@tibbsdementia co uk

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CEO and co-founder, Sarah Russell (on right with orange top) and Jeni Melia, co-founder and music therapist, who runs our Music 4 Memory classes

Inspired retirement living coming soon to Kempston

WITH so much uncertainty in the world, it’s easy to feel weighed-down by day-to-day worries. But in times like these, living in a thriving community, and being surrounded by good friends and a helpful team, can make a world of difference.

Adlington Retirement Living’s latest community ‘The Newells’ coming soon to Kempston, is a place where you can cast off your worries and enjoy a way of life that brings people together to enjoy good company and good times

The new community on Manor Drive will offer 60 stylish one, two and threebedroom retirement apartments for the over 55’s, each designed to make everyday life easier, safer and more comfortable

Alexandra Johnson, Sales and Marketing Director for Adlington Retirement Living, said: “Our award-winning approach to independent living, ensures homeowners don’t have to compromise on their lifestyle, their social life or their independence We aim to provide a community spirit, whilst promoting independence and individual respect. It’s a chance to become part of a thriving community of like-minded people, with a shared outlook ”

Four of Adlington’s retirement communities have won Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards for the Best Retirement Development at the WhatHouse? Awards, the UK housebuilding’s most prestigious event. Adlington Retirement Living was also crowned Seniors Housing Developer of the Year at the HealthInvestor Seniors Housing Awards

2022

Practical support 24/7

Your well-being is at the heart of everything we do Our management team are like a good neighbour and are on-site and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year whenever you need them

They’re the first port of call if you have any problems, large or small, and if you opt in for a daily wellbeing check, a member of our

team will call you every day to ask how you ’ re doing and whether you need anything

One of the aspects that appeals to many homeowners is the fact that optional personal care packages can be put in place to suit individuals’ needs Be it short-term support after an operation, or more regular, long-term tailored personal care, the team work closely with their local care partner to ensure a flexible solution to suit each individual

Alexandra Johnson explains: “More of our homeowners are choosing to move to retirement communities whilst they’re fit

and healthy, to future-proof their retirement We offer a personal approach to care to ensure that each individual receives just the right amount to maintain their independence, allowing them to enjoy their retirement to the full

“Even though many of our homeowners do not need specialist care, the Adlington on-site support team is always there in the background giving them and their families comfort that in the event of an unexpected fall help is immediately to hand ”

Everything under one roof

In addition to all the support you can enjoy from the on-site team at The Newells, you also have the benefit of our outstanding facilities, which are an extension of your own home Homeowners will be able to enjoy the privacy of their own peaceful and spacious apartment, spend time in the leafy gardens (maintained by an expert team of gardeners), relax in the hair salon, therapy suite or homeowners’ lounge and enjoy freshly cooked dishes daily in the restaurant.

Bess, an Adlington homeowner said: “I’ve got the best

of both worlds with my apartment because I’ve also got all the communal areas to enjoy like the homeowners’ lounge, the coffee bar and the restaurant We also have the therapy suite and of course the hair salon I’ve had reflexology and I had my nails done last week, which was super This Friday I’m having a facial from a really good, well-trained lady who does a lot of treatments here ”

Alexandra Johnson adds: “One of the main benefits of retirement living is not having to worry about maintaining a house and garden anymore It’s lovely to hear many of our homeowners at our other communities comment on the free time and energy they have to enjoy life They often remark how much more ‘ me time’ they discover not having to worry about repairs, DIY or mowing ”

Register your interest

Our Marketing Suite will be opening from 1st April, where a selection of apartments will be available to reserve off-plan.

Call 01234 988200 to register your interest and find out more about the lifestyle you can enjoy at The Newells in Kempston, or visit adlington.co.uk/BB

Business Rates to fall in Bedford Town Centre

FOLLOWING plans announced by the government last year, business rates in Bedford Town Centre are set to fall overall for Retail and Hospitality premises from 1 April 2023 Bedford Borough Council, which has been pushing for a reduction in rates payable in the area for a number of years, has welcomed the announcement

The change has come after the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) revalued the rates that all businesses pay and government chose not to increase rates by inflation

Central Government sets business rates, and Bedford Borough Council are required to collect them The Council then only keeps 49% of the business rates that it collects, 50% goes back to Central Government and the remaining 1%

goes to Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue

Alongside the revaluation, recipients of the Council’s Retail, Hospitality and Leisure business rates relief will see their rate of relief rise under the scheme, increasing from 50% to 75% during 2023/24 This relief will be subject to a cap of £110,000 per eligible business

Both these changes will benefit businesses in Bedford Town Centre by helping to reduce the pressure from business rates and encourage others to invest in the area by opening their own businesses

Councillor Henry Vann, Portfolio Holder for Town Centres and Planning at Bedford Borough Council, said: “Business rates are set by central Government and should have been changed sooner

“However, we welcome these

Animal shelter under threat of closure

changes by the government’s Valuation Office, which demonstrate that the ongoing concern we and many others, including local businesses and national small business organisations, have voiced about the high level of rates that our businesses pay has been listened to and acted upon

“In Bedford Borough, we offer the maximum small business rate relief we are able to as a Council While we would have liked to have seen the changes sooner, this should give businesses cause to celebrate yet another great reason to come to Bedford, with business rates reducing in our town centre, supporting those who own or are looking to set up a business ”

Bedford Borough Council will be contacting businesses directly to make them aware of their new charges in the next few months

Six detached homes could be built in Riseley

AN outline planning application has been submitted to Bedford Borough Council to build up to six detached dwellings in Five Bells Field, on Riseley’s High Street

The site, an open grass paddock between no 34 and no 36 High Street, is generally used for grazing horses

The application’s illustrative plan shows six detached family three- and four-bedroom homes

However, the application form states six ‘4+’ bedroom homes

The applicant said the Neighbourhood Plan group conducted a housing needs survey for the village in 2019 This found that 20 owner-occupier households are looking to purchase housing on the open market in Riseley in the “next 10 years” with a strong desire for three-bedroom bungalows

The planning application statement also said that the report concluded: “it is reasonable to suggest that the provision of up to ten suitable units would meet a reasonable proportion of the [housing] need while being in keeping with the size of the parish

“These could be delivered separately or alongside affordable housing as part of a rural exception site, with the market housing cross-subsidising the affordable housing ”

In March 2022, the Neighbourhood Plan Group recommended that no sites should be allocated for housing development in the parish

As the Riseley Neighbourhood Plan is not at an advanced stage and is to yet been examined, its emerging policies “do not carry any weight” in the decision making process, the applicant said

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A Sharnbrook-based animal shelter is under threat of closure after it received notice to quit from its landlord in February.

The Park Lane facility is home to a wide array of animals: goats, sheep, chickens, turkeys, llamas, donkeys and birds of prey

Initially the shelter was given a month’s notice to vacate the site but this was later increased to three months

Wayne Eckersley (pictured) who is one of the guardians of the shelter has sunk his life’s savings in to the venture, says it will take a lot longer to rehome all of the animals living there.

With all of his money gone, Wayne is hoping that he can find enough support to move the shelter to another location in north Bedfordshire In the mean time he is in the process of launching a ‘just giving’ page to help support the move.

He has approached some landowners

BEDFORD Borough Council has saved taxpayers “millions of pounds” by binning the former county council’s original restoration plans for a rubbish dump, a senior council officer has said

A report presented to the Climate Change Committee on Monday, February 6, 2023, said the borough council’s restoration project for the Elstow landfill site has saved borough taxpayers up to £8 million

The Elstow landfill site was transferred to the borough council after the county council was abolished in 2009

Paul Pace, chief officer environment, told the committee that the former county council’s consultants had put forward a restoration scheme for the site that was “just short of £8 million worth of capital money ”

The plan was to cover the site in man-made liners and cover this with material the county council would have to pay for, he explained

“We decided to try and test the market to see whether there was a commercial value in us opening up to take restoration soil onto the site,” he said

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to explore options to move the sanctuary, so far with no luck

If anyone has a small parcel of land where they could house the shelter, please contact Wayne on 07590 332420

The restoration soil is generated by removing topsoil at development sites, such as Wixams

“We managed to get a contract that is still in place now that actually we generate income for every ton of material that’s brought into the site,” he said

“We’ve brought in over the last year and a bit over half a million cubic metres of soil, all collected locally

“So not only have we saved a significant amount of capital money, we’ve also brought in over £1 5 million of extra money whilst doing all the restoration of the landfall site,” he said

All the soil that comes to the site has to be certified before being transported to Elstow

“We then quality check and analyse the soil that’s coming into the landfall site,” Mr Pace added

“It all has to be put down in certain levels of thickness, compacted and meet various tests, and it’s then all signed off by the Environment Agency as well

“So basically, all that restoration work has been paid for by the contractor as well as generating a fee as well, which is a significant result to the council and to the taxpayers,” he said

Solar farm for Clapham?

A PLANNING application for an eight hectares solar farm in Clapham has been approved by councillors

The planning application for the site on land north of College Farm, Green Lane, was before the council’s Planning Committee on Monday, January 23, 2023, as Brickhill Parish Council had raised an objection

Councillor Sue Oliver (Labour, Kempston North) wondered why Brickhill had objected when the site was in Clapham

Gideon Richards, team leader development management, said: “Brickhill were consulted because they are an adjacent parish

“The application site sits right on the boundary of Clapham and Brickhill but it is wholly within the Clapham boundary ”

Councillor Oliver said: “I’m a bit surprised with Brickhill Parish Council, don’t they know that we’ve declared, as a borough council, a climate emergency?

“This land isn’t lost forever, it’s a 50-year development, presumably there will still be arable land afterwards,” she said Nobody spoke on behalf of Brickhill Parish Council, but the

report listed its objection as “arable land will be lost due to the development”

The report presented to the committee said the land is of “low quality and limited environmental value”

Adding that specific site surveys have been carried out which define the land as grade 3b (clay with limited crop potential due to wetness) and with low quality grassland with no ecological value

Councillor Martin Towler (Conservative, Riseley) asked who carried out the land survey

Mr Richards said: “The general agricultural land classification which was done some years ago by Natural England has classified most of the land around Bedford as grade 2

“In specific applications most developers will then go away and do their own site specific surveys

“The developers employed someone to do the survey that came back and showed that the whole of the land is 3b

“Grades 1 to 3a are the best and most versatile [land] 3b up to 5 falls outside of that

“There’s more of a relaxation in terms of using that land for other

uses than crop production,” he said “Every field around it is growing wheat on all three sides,” Cllr Towler commented

Mr Richards said: “Any harm recognized by the development is outweighed by the substantial benefits of providing new renewable energy

“The site would also provide new biodiversity benefits through the provision of better quality grassland for ground nesting birds, a wildflower meadow to support insects, and additional bird/bat boxes

“Overall, the development is considered to be in accordance with the Local Plan, the Clapham Neighbourhood Plan and the NPPF [National Planning Policy Framework] ”

Resur facing of Paula Radclif

fe Way

Resurfacing works are planned for Paula Radcliffe Way in summer 2023 Signs will soon be put in place to give advance warning of the dates of the roadworks The works will see the dual carriageway resurfaced between Great Ouse Way and Bedford Road, Clapham

Revised plans for Elstow landfill will save a ton

Wayne Eckersley one of the guardians at the Sharnbrook shelter.

We are in the season of Lent Starting with Ash Wednesday (February 22) it is a period of prayer and spiritual discipline running up to Easter that echoes the forty days that Jesus spent in the wilderness

It is also of note that part of Lent overlaps with Ramadan which begins on March 22 and has similar themes of prayer and fasting

At the heart of the Christian Lent is Jesus’ encounter with the devil in the desert (see Matthew 4:1-11) Three times satan tempts Jesus with his invitations to rely not on God but on human resources - ‘tell these stones to become bread’; seek celebrity status rather than humble service – ‘throw yourself down’ from the temple roof; and gain material reward – all this I will give you . Each time Jesus rejects the invitation to deny

who he is; to compromise on his divine identity Each time he corrects the devil’s use of scripture ‘For it is written’ becomes the heart of his response The devil not only tempts Jesus but corrupts the Word of God

Many in our society are quick to quote scripture, whether or not active believers Our Christian heritage makes the bible part of our daily discourse

Politicians are not averse to such quotations Often such usage is appropriate, but at times it is skewed towards particular views

Much more seriously the far right often claim biblical support for their abhorrent views Apartheid South Africa was rooted in the corrupt reading of the Bible by the Dutch Reformed Church and others

Dave Hodgson – Mayor of Bedford

It is not unknown for the best of us to quote partially from scripture overlooking other verses that don’t fit what we want to say. Again and again, I am sure Jesus wants to intercede saying, ‘It is written ’

The over-riding theme of the Christian scriptures is that of the God who loves each one of us with over-flowing grace, who in Jesus lays down his life for us on the cross, and who rises to new life

It is a gospel, that is good news, of a hope that is rooted in the inclusion of all Quoting scripture to our own ends; using the bible to exclude others; focusing on what we receive and not what we are to give are all to limit the message of scripture

Like Jesus we need to see the whole for it is written ’

Protecting services and keeping Council Tax down

This year ’ s Budget builds on the Council’s record of one of the lowest percentage Council Tax rises of all unitary councils

The Budget ensures we are putting the needs of our residents first yet again

To help with the cost of living crisis, we continue to support residents by keeping Council Tax down, freezing charges and protecting key services so that our most vulnerable get support when they need it most and ensures no libraries or Children’s Centres close

• Core Council Tax will rise by 0 9% as well as a 2% rise for the government’s Adult Social Care precept In total 2 9% - well below inflation

• The BBC is reporting 75% of Councils are increasing Council Tax by the maximum 4 99% allowed and Croydon’s Conservative Mayor has proposed an increase of 15%!

• Key services that residents rely on will be protected yet again, despite severe Conservative government cuts

• Council charges to residents, such as car park charges, will be frozen to help residents with the cost of living crisis

• Huge capital investments in the Borough’s future including 2 new schools and 40 new classrooms, investing more into our £42 million road and pavement renewal programme, play area

refurbishment and town centre renewal. This Budget was produced in the face of severe financial challenges caused by years of cuts by the Conservative government and inflationary pressures Through good financial management we have made substantial savings in order to balance our budget and protect services

We continue to tackle the £90million debt that was left for us by the Conservatives-run County Council This year we have made even more progress with debt forecast to fall to £60million Managing the debt reduces repayments and allows us to spend more on helping local residents

Mohammad Yasin – MP Kempston and Bedford

Parliament is currently in recess which always gives me the opportunity to visit as many people as possible in Bedford and Kempston in the week I don’t have to be in Westminster. The cost-of-living crisis is understandably the number one concern from everyone I speak to, but people are also sick and tired of the endless scandals and financial mismanagement of the Government.

That’s why I was dismayed to read Labour’s recent investigation into the Government’s flagrant use of Government Procurement Cards (GPCs) which detailed nearly £150million of taxpayer’s money being squandered across every part of government over the last two years on fivestar hotels, fine art and fine dining while the public struggle to pay the bills

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Across the whole of 2021, the 14 departments examined spent a total of at least £145 5mn using GPC’s which allow purchases to be made directly against departmental budgets without going through regular invoicing procedures That compares to a total of £84 9mn spent by the equivalent departments in 2010/11, an increase of £60 6mn, or 71 38%, in ten years

When thousands of pounds of public money are being spent on these cards so they personally can travel in style, stay in luxury hotels, and eat at the best restaurants, do they not realise how much difference those amounts would make right now to the average household?

I think of the low paid workers and families who got in touch with me because they cannot afford to eat properly or turn

the heating on We keep being told there is no more money available to support households or public service workers, including all those striking to be paid enough to live on, and then think of the same Government Ministers claiming there’s no money in the Treasury treating taxpayer’s money as their own

It’s just another example of this Government’s profligacy in public spending and record keeping on top of the billons wasted on giving government contracts –especially on sourcing PPE to friends and Tory donors

This gravy train cannot continue, and under a Labour government, we will make sure it ends by setting up an “Office for Value for Money to uphold transparency and high standards in public spending

The culture of flagrant use of taxpayers money on Government Ministers expenses must end

gardening with Milton Ernest Garden Centre Spring promise

by Maureen Catlin

It’s always a pleasure to welcome the month of March to the garden.

In March spring is evident everywhere from carpets of golden Daffodils, to Primroses, Crocus, Forsythia and Magnolias in full bloom to name but a few. The temperature is rising, the birds are building nests and the ‘hum’ of neighbouring lawnmowers can be heard It’s

our alarm call to get back outside and tend our patches once more.

The Wild Primrose (Primula vulgaris) is such a great sight in spring and looks even better planted with Spring Bulbs, Euphorbias, Pulmonarias and Ferns

Everyone has, I am sure, a cool, shaded area under a tree or walled corner where the primula species will grow well

in the garden

Whether it is Cowslips, Oxlips or other perennial Primulas they really do tell us its Spring Hundreds of primula varieties are now bred for colour and some of the polyanthus have great scent too

Primula ‘Everlast’ is perennial and will flower year after year from September to May They’re great plants for bees too and especially bumblebees in my garden

Helping bees and other insect pollinators is vital for mankind If we lose the insects, we lose many of the birds, mammals, the food we grow and much more So, lets help them and sow annual and perennial flowers and also wildflowers

These days there are many different pre-made mixes available to buy so you’re sure to find one suitable for anywhere from containers to borders and sun to shade

For wildflowers the soil doesn’t have to be good either Just free of weeds and with an open structure

Sow them in rows 30 cm (12 inches) apart so that any weeds that come up can be identified and pulled out Broadcasting them is more suitable in lawns and larger areas

Wildflowers can also be sown in cell trays Just place a pinch of seed into good quality potting compost, leave in a cool area and they should germinate within one to two weeks

When they get to 4 to 5 cm in height plant these clumps of seedlings 25 cm apart in well prepared soil and you won’t need to worry about the competition from weeds They should require little care except watering in dry spells You can then expect a carpet of flowers from mid-June to October

If you prefer a neat and manicured lawn March is a great time to give it a spring makeover Wet, cold and shady conditions encourage moss and if left it can soon overrun normal grass A weed, feed and moss kill granular fertiliser applied to your lawn now will, as suggested, stop the moss, encourage new growth and kill the weeds Another option is iron sulphate which can be diluted in a watering can 3 ounces to every 9 litres

It will kill the moss but not the grass Also, raking out old thatch from between the new grass shoots improves growth and spiking the ground with a garden fork or similar will help drainage in waterlogged areas

The full preparation of a new grass area is best done over three to four weeks by first digging over the soil and then allowing it to break down Pull out any weeds

that emerge before finally compacting the area by treading with your boots and raking level to a crumbly ‘tilth’

Towards the end of March depending on the air temperature the ground should be warm enough to germinate grass seed Laying turf is more immediately but a lot more expensive

On the veg patch prepare the soil to a fine tilth before sowing seeds of hardier veg like Beetroot, Broad Beans, Peas, Parsnips and Carrots Garlic, Onion sets and Broad Beans started earlier in peat modules will need to be planted now and spaced depending on the types and varieties used

More space generally yields bigger crops and this is especially true for Broad Beans

They like a good 25 cm (9 inches) between plants and 30 cm (12 inches) between rows which will allow enough room for the flowers to set well

Indoors it’s a good time to sow all Brassica, Cauliflower, Cabbage and Brussels Sprouts Sprinkle them thinly into a 10 cm pot covered with a thin layer of vermiculite and keep them at a temperature of 8 to 10 °C until they’ve germinated; usually around 5 to 10 days

Then when they’re just large enough to handle transfer the seedlings individually to 9 cm pots seed trays with 15 cells to grow on You can plant them on the patch when the roots show all around the sides of the pot which is usually early April

Also try sowing new batches successionally every few weeks This will help lengthen the harvesting period ... and for a final bit of spring promise don’t forget that it’s St David’s Day on March 1st, Mothering Sunday on the 19th and the Spring Equinox on the 20th

T he Searchers ‘T hank You’ tour – only 43 dates!

The Searchers Thank You Tour runs April 13 – June 17, 2023, playing at the Bedford Corn Exchange, Friday 28th April Tickets: www the-searchers co uk

WHEN John McNally formed the searchers in 1957, aged just 16 he could never have imagined the phenomenal success that his band would enjoy: 50 million record sales, thir teen UK char t hits - including three No 1’s - and a sound that inspired some of the greatest ar tists of all time, including The Byrds, Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen

This is a chance to experience a truly legendar y band, possibly for the last time Original members John McNally (guitar, vocals) and Frank Allen (bass, vocals) are joined by Spencer James (guitar, vocals – Spencer has been par t of the line-up for 37 years) and the newly recruited, highly rated Richie Burns (drums)

Frank said: “It’s been four years since our last tour

We all needed a break but now we are ready to come back and do what we do and love best Mind you, I do sometimes shudder at what we’ve taken on – 43 dates in 3 months – that’s quite a schedule for a band of a cer tain age! But I m really up for it as are the rest of the guys

John said “I set this band up in 1957 and so far things have worked to plan I thought we would probably do a 43-date UK tour 66 years later I m joking of course! Who would have imagined that we are still able to do this –touring the best towns and cities in the UK and still playing to thousands of fantastic fans I can t wait ”

The band has chosen to call this the ‘Thank You Tour ’ as a mark of respect and appreciation for the legions of fans who have suppor ted them over the years Fans will be treated to a full set of

The Searchers’ best-loved songs, including: ‘When You Walk In The Room’, ‘Goodbye My Love’, ‘Sugar & Spice’, ‘What Have They Done

To The Rain as well as their three UK No 1 hits

‘Sweets for my Sweet’ (1963), ‘Needles and Pins’ (1964) and ‘Don’t Throw Your Love Away’ (1964)

Also included will be material from the 70s and 80s, when the Searchers were signed to Sire Records becoming label-mates with some of the hippest acts around including Talking Heads, The Cure, Madonna and The Ramones –

Pioneer of drum’n’bass coming to Esquires

course he was the man responsible for taking the drum and bass concept from a small venue off London’s Charing Cross Road to the nation’s superclubs and then onto the international stage LTJ Bukem will be joined by Ruthless MC with suppor t from Optimum (Release), Wes B (Skank) and Dave RYOR Tickets are £15 in advance, more on the door, tickets went on sale on sale in Januar y from Seetickets and are also available in person from Slide Record Shop, Bedford Arcade and Esquires Bar:

by Tony Hendrix

who covered ‘Needles and Pins’ This was one of the band’s favorite creative periods and saw them recording at Rockfield Studios in Wales (famous for Queen s recording of Bohemian Rhapsody) Keep an ear out for gems including ‘Hear ts in Her Eyes’, ‘Love’s Melody’, Infatuation and It s Too Late

The Searchers are the longest running band in pop histor y They have been in constant demand for 66 years Not even The Rolling Stones can match that: they’ve only been going for 61 years!

T he brilliant Danni Nicholls – for one night only

Having recently relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, multi award nominated singer/songwriter and Bedford native Danni Nicholls returns for a hometown show at Esquires suppor ted by a full band

Opening the show will be fellow Bedfordian, Luke Tuchscherer –acclaimed ar tist formerly of Alt Countr y band The Whybirds

Danni will be per forming numbers spanning the American Roots Music spectrum from countr y to soul there are songs to make you move, weep and smile

With comparisons to ar tists such as Linda Ronstadt Norah Jones, Brandi Carlile and Roseanne Cash, Danni’s vibrant,

captivating per formances are all but guaranteed to melt your hear t into the soles of your boots

Her passionate deliver y, captivating voice, mesmerising guitar skills and charmingly engaging between-song banter compel you to fall under her spell

“Smokey soul, folk-pop and heart-wrenching alt-country, all in a rich voice Q Magazine

“I absolutely love the elegance and beauty of her music” Bob Harris, BBC Radio 2

For one night only at Esquires, Bedford, tickets from in-store at Slide Records at Danny’s Bar Esquires, or online www danninicholls com/shows

Well those of you into hardcore Jungle stomping may well remember the days back in the late 90s when the name LTJ Bukem was a drum and bass player simply in a league by himself

If his music production rattled your rhythm buds then, you will be pleased to hear that he will be gracing the decks at Esquires Bedford on Friday, March 10, alongside Optimum, Wes B and Dave RYOR, doors open at 10pm till 2 30am

Esquires are ver y excited to be bringing this true pioneer of Drum and Bass to Esquires LTJ Bukem made an appearance at Esquires Bedford back in 2016 when he raised the roof top with an amazing set!

I cannot recall any drum and bass DJs to have entered this man's league His productions have proved to be truly timeless with many of his tunes still being featured on both local and national radio LTJ Bukem stands out from the other headliners because not only is he a ground breaking DJ, he is an Inspirational musician, has his own record label and an entrepreneur, not forgetting of

We spoke briefly about this next event late last year, The Ar tful Dodger established as the most commercially successful UK Garage acts will be appearing at Esquires Bedford on Friday April 7 Ar tful Dodger produced an amazing string of char t-topping hits remixes and a platinum selling album ‘It’s All About The Stragglers’ this will be an amazing event not to be missed, tickets to this event are available from Esquires Bedford

Sharnbrook Men’s Group:

comedy

Bumper March with two classic mixed bills of

TV names and rising stars!

‘Celebrity Deal or No Deal’

“One of the UK’s sharpest comedians” The Herald DINESH NATHAN – Is an act making serious waves on the UK Comedy circuit Winner of South Coast Comedian Of The Year in 2019 and runner-up at the Brighton Komedia new comedian award 2020 He has appeared on Comedy Central Live on Comedy Central “A Class Act” Chortle

Clapham

Clapham Methodist Church Clapham High Street 9 15am-4pm £20 per term Subjects include: Scrabble, Dominoes, lace making, reading, singing, arts and crafts, knitting, crochet, painting, card making and a card school

Contact: Berta Bames 07704 850974 or Miriam Pulman 07790 267176

Bedfordshire Family History Society: Friday 3rd 7pm March 2023 our talk will be, RAF Henlow by Ted Martin held in the Drama Hall at Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1 Contact:

Hardy Plant Society: Talk by owner of Swines Meadow Nursery at 2pm Saturday 4th March at the Weatherly Centre Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Small charge for non members All welcome Contact: 07756478760

Bedford RSPB Local Group: ARA club Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF – 7 30pm Thursday, March 16, Mike Weedon is assistant editor of ‘Bird Watching’ magazine and is a keen local patch birder Mike will share with us the variety of wildlife for which his local area is so special to him with a presentation entitled

Thursday March 9 – The Gordon Arms, Bedford ALISTAIR BARRIE is one of the top headliners on the international comedy circuit He is a regular at London s world-famous Comedy Store and a core member of their weekly topical ‘Cutting Edge’ team He has twice been nominated for ‘Best Show’ at The Edinburgh Fringe and he was runner-up in the 2015 English Comedian of the Year He has appeared on numerous radio and television shows all over the world, including

Saturday March 18 – The Rufus Centre, Flitwick PETE FIRMAN is recognised as the UK’s leading comedian/magician He starred in BBC1’s Saturday night prime -time programme The Magicians and recently made special guest appearances on ITV1’s The Next Great Magician and Live at the London Palladium

He has also made appearances on The One Show, The John Bishop Show and Let s Dance for Comic Relief “

The new poster-boy for British comedy magic” The Telegraph MAD RON The Third Hardest Man in Uxbridge, is a comedy

creation of Steve Lee, first appearing on the comedy circuit back in December 2015 Since then Mad Ron has gone on to win multiple awards were threats made? Who can say!

“It’s a well-constructed, wellpractised set providing a dependable gag-focussed start to the night ” Chortle

Paul Revill will host the shows Doors 7pm, shows start 8pm Shows finish 10.45pm. To Book visit www castlecomedy co uk

Bedford Art Society

Meeting: Friday 3rd March 2023 7:15 for 7:30 start Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 SEB Caroline Furlong, A demonstration in mixed media watercolour and ink Entry free for members, £5 for visitors

Contact: Jean Paterson on 01234 307210 or www bedsartsociety co uk for further information

Sandy Historical Research Group: 7 30pm Tuesday, March 14, Talk by George Howe on How the Railways Changed Sandy At Beeston Methodist Church Hall, The Baulk, Beeston, SG19 1NR

Entry for non-members £4 00 Refreshments available

Anyone interested in knowing more about SHRG, and/or joining our Group, purchasing SHRUB Magazine or contributing to SHRG activities please contact: e-mail

Kempston

at the Bowls Pavilion of Kempston Hammers Club, MK42 7BN Musicians, singers and poets all welcome at every level Contact: us on facebook, or come and meet us at the Bowls Pavilion

Walking Football: Sessions every Tuesday at Upper Caldecote 1 30pm to 2,30pm taking place at Harvey Close Upper Caldecote SG18 9BQ Contact: Colin Harries on 01767 317099

Sandy Historical Society:

Bedfordshire Prostate

sport

Eagles winless in eight continued from page 20

place amongst the division’s hot shots The return of last years top scorer Rene Howe is also showing p r o m i s e a s t h e H o w e a n d Tomlinson pairing begin to work their magic again, as they did so successfully last term

One thing that is certain is that Bedford need to start winning games soon, they are currently

only out of the relegation zone on goal difference, and need some points on the board if they are to build on last season’s successes

By the time you read this the Eagles will have played their next two home games, against Stratford Town and Needwood Market where they will have hoped to take maximum points against teams around them in the Pitching In Southern League Premier

SWIMMING Good medal haul for swimmers

Division Central

After that comes tough fixtures against playoff placed opposition at Coalville, who are currently top of the form table, and then home against currently third placed Nuneaton Borough on Saturday, March 11 The team will I’m sure appreciate your support for a match that should have a bumper crowd For tickets and updates, visit www bedfordeagles net

Modernian Swimming Club competed in the Beds ASA County Championships held in January and February They finished the meeting with 44 age group Gold medals, 56 Silver and 41 Bronze Senior Champions were: Lucy Young (200m Back and 200m

Free); Eloise Cole (50m Free, 50m Fly, 50m Back, 100m Free, 100m

Fly and 100m Back)

Junior Champions were; Adam O’Neal (800m Free and 1500m

Free); Ryan Close (50m Back, 100m Back and 200m Back); Eloise Cole (50m Free, 50m Fly, 50m Back, 100m Free, 100m Fly

and 100m Back)

FINA points for Top Swimmer award were won by Joseph Emms (Boys 12 years) and Abigail Davis (Girls 13 years)

County records were also broken by Eloise Cole (50 Fly Junior, 100 Back Junior and Senior, 100 Fly Junior and Senior)

The ball won’t

Bungalow for sale – £295,000

Situated in the quiet north Bedfordshire village of Milton Ernest • Easy access to A1 and M1 (via A421) • Sharnbrook school catchment area • Local public house with restaurant • Riverside walks close by • Chidren’s playground • Doctors’ surgery in Sharnbrook village (7 miles) • Garden centre with post office, pet store and groomers, fishmongers • Medieval church of England

• Two miles to village of Clapham with more shops and takeaways • Four miles to Bedford town centre and railway station

• 12 miles to Rushden Lakes shopping centre • Property features two bedrooms • Fitted kitchen • Lounge diner • Gas central heating • Fitted carpets throughout • Garage and parking space for four cars • Loft conversion possibility subject planning consent • NO UPWARD CHAIN

To book a viewing please call: Nick Kier on 01234 327744

drop for Rene Howe against Ilkeston

This is proving to be the c a s e w i t h t h e E a g l e s n o t recording a win in the first e i g h t m a t c h e s o f 2 0 2 3 Indeed, the last win, a 6-1 B o x i n g D a y d r u b b i n g o f bottom side AFC Rushden & Diamonds now seems like a distant memory

The Eagles team seems not to have fully recovered from the disastrous short period when Paul Davis took over as manager at the start of the year, his short tenure it seems was enough to rock the boat, and despite successful interim m a n a g e r G r a e m e To m l i n s o n returning to lead the dugout, preDavis results have so far not been forthcoming

It’s not that the team hasn’t been playing well, for much of the time they have fought for every point, but ended up on the wrong side of the scoreline by an odd goal The goalkeeper situation probably hasn’t helped the defence that has proven to be too leaky at times Alex Street was a safe pair of hands last season, but this season, while playing with an injury, he clearly wasn’t up to scratch, which saw him replaced shortly before his manager Gary Setchell was sacked Since then there has

by Michael Jarman-Webb

been an array of keepers, none of whom have been a patch on Street at his best

by Rowland White

There have been bright spots for the team, Connor Tomlinson with 16 goals so far in the season, 14 of them in the league one of them, which puts him in joint fifth

Continued on page 19

The Step 6 side put promotionchasing rivals Northampton Sileby Rangers to the sword with a professional 2-1 home victory Northampton struck first, just three minutes into the start, when Sileby winger Taylor picked up the ball after some loose Real Bedford defending, before squaring it across the face of the goal for Burrows to tap into an empty net Bedford responded immediately following some great interplay between Eddie Corbit and Tom Hitchcock in the middle of the park to set the young Corbit flying down the left wing Corbit’s low-driven cross into the box telegraphed towards Jordan Brown, giving the striker a perfect chance to hit the back of the net

BACK OF THE NET

Just ten minutes later Hitchcock picked up a loose ball from a poor Northampton clearance and launched a pinpoint cross to Jordan Brown who slotted home his second from a tight angle Brown was denied his hattrick just moments later thanks to some excellent goalmouth defending from Northampton, and then Brown was at the centre of things once again Brown lashed out following a poor challenge on Sileby Rangers’ Luke Stevens, who replied with a strike to Brown’s face, forcing the referee to produce a red card With Northampton down to 10 men after just 25 minutes, the away team

defended deep and limited Bedford’s chances The visitors showed real character to keep the scoreline to just 2-1 in the second half as Bedford pressed for the decisive goal And with just ten minutes to go, Northampton were reduced to just nine men as illdiscipline sent their defender to the Sin Bin but they managed to keep the score to a respectable 2-1

Real Bedford dropped points for only the third time this season when they lost to Wellingborough Whitworth at home on February 14

The visiting team, placed in 16th position in the league, benefited from two howlers that the Bedford keeper will be happy to forget Bedford were caught well on the counter inside the first 15 minutes Kobi

Bivens collected the ball around the halfway line before laying it off to the dangerous Connor Bailey, who produced an optimistic effort from range, catching Bedford keeper Tyler McGregor off his line and slipping through the hands of the keeper to find the back of the net

The visitors then set up a deep defensive line and refused to be drawn out The second half rarely saw Wellingborough leave their own half as they continued to hold on to their lead but they were then gifted a second goal A back pass from Bedford defender Tom Wood rolled straight under the foot of keeper McGregor making it two for the visitors The away defensive line got even deeper and although Bedford continuously peppered the Wellingborough goal, with Jordan Brown and Tom Hitchcock missing opportunities, it wasn’t to be Bedford’s night and the Valentine's night game ended in heartbreak for

the league leaders

Real Bedford reach Beds County Trophy Final and top the league Eagles winless in first eight of 2023

The following weekend Real Bedford were back to their winning ways in the Beds Senior County Trophy beating Leighton Town Reserves to secure their spot in the final Their path to the final came via a comprehensive 3-0 win against Flitwick in December, followed by an astonishing 13-0 win against AFC Caddington S&S on January 28

SENT OFF

Real Bedford’s leading goalscorer Jordan Brown got off the mark against Caddington after just five minutes and netted his 6th goal of the game in the 88th minute Two goals from Tom Hitchcock, as well as goals from Luke Knight, Tom Wood, Dan Walker, Eddie Corbit, and Rob Ducket helped Real to their record-breaking score line

The semi-final of the Trophy was held on February 18, and a well-drilled Leighton Reserves team gave Real Bedford a good test but the strength of the Bedford side saw, who sit at the top of the league above Leighton Reserves was eventually no match Dan Walker was the star of the game, making two and scoring one Tom Hitchcock netted a brace, and a customary goal from Jordan Brown sealed Bedford's place against Elstow Abbey in the final with a 4-1 victory Real Bedford will face one of their toughest tests of the season on February 25, when they visit Rugby Borough FC who sit in second position in the league and just six points away from the top spot, but an away win for Bedford will be a big leap towards automatic promotion

The penalty incident against Stourbridge – did Charley Sanders elbow Reece Styche or was it his team mate Joseph Hull?

BEDFORD Town knew the 2023-24 season would not be as easy as the previous one, where they gained promotion, finishing ten points clear at the top of the table.