Beds Bulletin March 2023

INDIA Marshall-Roads, has been named as one of the UK’s most inspirational and dynamic female entrepreneurs by the f:Entrepreneur ‘#ialso100’ campaign

India who founded Bottle Bazaar in 2013, is being profiled alongside 100 female entrepreneurs from across the countr y, as par t of the campaign to celebrate the multi-achievements of women running businesses in the UK today

Bottle Bazaar based in Biggleswade, creates personalised labelled wine, alongside their luxur y yet inclusive online wine club

India discovered her passion for wine af ter leaving university, and she is enthusiastic to share her knowledge with others in a way that is accessible and mindful, focusing on quality beverages and experiences, rather than the damaging ‘booze culture’ we of ten see in the media

Alongside her entrepreneurship, India advocates fiercely for mental health

The f:Entrepreneur campaign was launched in 2017 to raise greater awareness of the impact of incredible female business owners across the countr y, and help provide inspiration and role models to the wider small business community

Delivered by Small Business Britain – the leading champion of small businesses in the UK - the campaign offers a host of events, training, and networking oppor tunities to boost skills, capability, and confidence

The f:Entrepreneur ‘#ialso100’ line-up par ticularly sets out to showcase trailblazing female founders who lead purpose-driven businesses alongside a roster of

See page 5

other responsibilities, such as volunteering, mentoring and community suppor t

On being featured in the #ialso100 lineup, India said: I feel honoured to be recognised on the #ialso list of talented and inspiring women I m ver y much looking for ward to meeting them all This award has been a real boost to myself and my business and I’m excited for a great 2023

“Since making the list, I’ve also

WEDDING STATIONERY

accepted an exciting position with CHUMS Charity, a children’s mental health charity in Bedfordshire, which will allow me to explore my passion for raising awareness of the challenges faced by children and young people as they struggle with their mental health

“I am ver y excited to suppor t CHUMS Charity’s fundraising effor ts and feel it is a wor thy addition to my #ialso life ”

MARCH 2023

The ‘80 Up Challenge’ – raising funds for Motor Neurone Disease Association

Eighty-year-old, in June, Peter Coutts who lives in Biggleswade, is aiming to raise £2,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association by taking on a challenge which he is calling the 80 Up Challenge

Peter will do 80 minutes of exercise every day for 80 days and this will consist of 40 minutes on a exercise bike immediately followed by 40 minutes of running up and down on a mini trampoline and will be carried out at his home in Biggleswade The challenge is to start on March 15, 2023 which is the date of his late wife Barbara’s birthday.

Peter is raising money for the MND Association in memory of his wife Barbara who was diagnosed with MND in July 2020 and sadly passed away on July 5, 2022

Peter said: “It is heartbreaking to watch someone who you have been so close to for 53 years affected by MND and all you can do is try and provide as much care and support for them as you can Eventually that care and support is total as the person with MND loses the ability of doing anything for themselves ”

Anyone who would like to make a donation to The 80 Up Challenge can do so by going to www.justgiving.com/Barbara-coutts

Entr epr eneur named one of 2023’s most inspiring female founders

Don’t miss out on casting your vote at upcoming local elections X

WITH local elections due to take place on Thursday, May 4, 2023 make sure that you’re able to cast your vote at the ballot box by bringing along a suitable form of photographic ID

A wide range of photo ID will be accepted including passports, driving licences and cards with a PASS mark A list of accepted forms of identification can be found at www centralbedfordshire gov uk/voter-id

If you don’t have any of the accepted ID, you can apply for a

Artificial pitch to ease shortage

A “DESPERATE” shortage of football pitches in Biggleswade is set to be eased, with a new £850,000 artificial grass pitch to be provided at a local school

free voter ID document known as a Voter Authority Certificate (VAC)

If you prefer not to vote in person, postal voting is an option

Postal voting allows eligible voters to cast their ballots by mail, without the need for in-person voter ID

Find out how to apply for a postal vote at www centralbedfordshire gov uk/postal-vote

Whether voting in person or by post, first make sure that you’re registered to vote at www c e n t r a l b e d f o r d s h i r e g o v u k / register-to-vote

The campaign to reverse the lack of playing facilities was pitched to town councillors last summer by Biggleswade Football Club, which has a ground-sharing arrangement with Bedford Town

Deputy mayor Madeline Russell said at the time she was “embarrassed” by the lack of leisure facilities locally

Applicant Meridian Trust submitted full plans for a 3G allweather grass pitch on a two-acre area of the playing fields at Stratton Upper School in Eagle Farm Road

The project includes perimeter fencing, hardstanding areas, a storage container, floodlights, landscaping and a footpath, according

to a report to Central Bedfordshire Council’s development management committee

“There’ll be some impact on nearby residential properties,” said the report “But subject to suitable mitigation being secured by planning conditions, such as a noise management plan for the facility, it’s anticipated the proposed use will be acceptable

“The new all-weather artificial grass pitch will have a 3G rubbercrumb surface, which will serve both the school and the local community

“It can accommodate a range of sports, although the pitch will be marked out for multiple football formats These are a single fullsize adult pitch, two nine-a-side

pitches, two seven-a-side pitches and four five-a-side pitches ”

There were seven comments made, three opposing the plans, one in support and three general remarks, while the town council raised no objectiont

Conservative Biggleswade

South councillor Mark Foster backed the application, saying in a statement: “Biggleswade is short of football pitches and with an appropriate community use agreement this has the potential to improve the lives of many people in the town and wider area

“Consideration needs to be given to the impact on local residents, especially those in Orchard Close, over noise, lighting and access routes ”

Independent Biggleswade

South councillor Hayley Whitaker said in a statement: “The town is in desperate need of more football pitches and facilities

“We currently have keen players having to travel outside Biggleswade to access suitable prac-

tice areas and this pitch will address a clear unmet need for the town

“I’m mindful of the impact on neighbouring homes But I’m reassured concerns raised have been addressed Tree planting along some of the boundaries would limit noise and light pollution ”

Independent Linslade councillor Victoria Harvey asked for flexibility so that “appropriate planting” is included, whether shrubs or trees

Planning officer David Gauntlett said: “The applicant is happy to provide extra hedging along Orchard Close, which could be secured by a planning condition

“We can request an appropriate form of mitigation planting, which officers will work with the applicant to determine ”

Conservative Biggleswade

North councillor Ian Bond said:

“We want a scheme agreeable to CBC’s landscaping experts Orchard Close is near, as is Hitchmead Road

“We need to look after neighbours as much as we can I support this and I’m sure our officers will put together a robust plan ”

Biggleswade schools get £30m injection for reorganisation

MORE than £30m is being committed to the reorganisation of several schools in the Biggleswade area under a local authority scheme

A consultation process has been held over Central Bedfordshire’s Schools for the Future programme for the Biggleswade cluster

A report was presented to the local authority’s executive to seek authority for the capital expenditure required for planned changes

These are for:

l Edward Peake Middle to become a secondary school;

l Wrestlingworth Lower to be a split site infant/junior with Dunton;

l Dunton Lower to be a split site infant/junior with Wrestlingworth;

l St Andrews East Lower and St Andrews West Lower to both be primary schools;

l Sutton Lower to also become a primary

A move to a primary and secondary model of education will align Central Bedfordshire with the rest of the country, said the report to councillors

“This will help staff recruitment and retention, school viability, improve educational attainment and provide a clearer pathway for parents, carers and their children ”

Conservative Cranfield and Marston Moretaine Cllr Sue Clark explained: “The feasibility studies have been concluded and give us the reassurance the changes proposed can be delivered at the sites

“They also give us an early indication of the likely cost This is estimated to be around £32m, of which £14m will be met through housing infrastructure funding ”

Conservative Biggleswade North Cllr Ian Bond said: “I’m delighted we’re moving forward from three-tier to two-tier and the HIF money has been secured for Biggleswade I look forward to all of this being implemented ”

Independent Potton councillor

Adam Zerny expressed delight that Dunton and Wrestlingworth remain on their sites ”

Executive member for families, education and children councillor Clark replied: “I’m glad we came up with a solution for Dunton and Wrestlingworth which addressed people’s concerns and enabled both schools to remain open

“On transport, some parents have raised concerns about the logistics of getting from one school to the other

“There may need to be staggered start times or some kind of shuttle bus arrangement As this is developed, that’s expected to emerge through the operational planning and transport plans ”

Schools for the Future programme director Sue Archer said:

“It’s something which will vary from year-to-year between the schools, as the age range and the family shape changes

“There’s a CBC transport policy to ensure we can get children to school, so we’ll have to address this on a case-by-case basis

“But we’ll be talking to the schools and the diocese about this, and taking examples from other places with a similar arrangement around how they make it work for the children and families ”

Gar den waste collections r estar t

With spring just around the corner, Central Bedfordshire Council will restart its garden waste collection service from February 27, on residents’ next normal recycling collection day The Council will collect either the two Councilissued garden waste bags or one bin per household A bin tag reminding residents of their garden waste collections will be attached to bins prior to the first collection

For more about waste collection visit www centralbedfordshire gov uk/garden-waste

b y Euan Duncan – L ocal Democracy Reporter

b y Euan Duncan – L ocal Democracy Reporter

Central Beds named as the only council to freeze Council Tax this year

RESEARCH undertaken by the County Councils Network shows that Central Bedfordshire Council is the only upper tier council proposing not raising Council Tax next year

Cllr David Shelvey, Executive Member for Corporate Resources at Central Bedfordshire Council explains how they have achieved this:

“We are all very aware of the financial pressures our residents are under as inflation and the cost of living continues to rise

“Even though the Council’s running costs have also risen and demand for our adult social care and children’s services increases, careful budget management over several years means it is possible for us to avoid a Council Tax increase next year

“We had already budgeted for

Helen honor ed by the King

an increase in inflation and we’re making efficiencies to reduce our operating costs so that some of the pressure can be absorbed

“We have also used some reserves put aside in previous years to help balance the budget so that we don’t need to ask our residents to pay more ”

“This year in particular, we are extremely mindful that our residents are facing rising costs of living and we’re pleased to be able to propose a budget that protects our services and we do not need to raise our share of Council Tax next year ”

Anger at delays and cost cutting on lift project

STRONG words were exchanged at a meeting to update progress on a project to provide disabled lifts and ramps at Biggleswade railway station, according to the town’s deputy mayor

Groups involved in the process had their first formal chance to react to a delay to the development completion date

More than half a million pounds savings have been planned on the scheme already from its initial ambitions

Rising costs imposed budgetary pressures on Network Rail and the cuts are preventing other projects being scrapped, the company warned previously

Deputy mayor Madeline Russell told a town council meeting: “There was a meeting of the Access for All group chaired by Conservative North East Bedfordshire MP Richard Fuller on February 3

“The group includes representatives from Network Rail, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), Central Bedfordshire Council and

Bedfordshire rail access network (BRAN), as well as the town council,” she explained

“Everyone was very disappointed to learn the revised timescale for the project It means the new access won’t be operational until January 2025, with no plan to shorten that time frame

“Some quite strong words were said at the meeting because this is probably two years longer than originally proposed

“There was better news from GTR which announced that work on a new toilet block has begun this month There’ll be male, female and accessible toilets, with a new soakaway

“Connection to the sewers will take place over two weekends to fit in with traffic management for the transport interchange,” added councillor Russell

“The interchange remains on course to be completed by the end of March ”

Network Rail reduced aspects of the access project at Biggleswade railway station to save £582,000 An initial forecast of £2 4m was predicted to cover the development

The company explained this early estimate was for “construction costs only”, with a revised total offering a better reflection on “all funding associated with the design, delivery and management process”

Price increases in building materials were described by BRAN as an “eye-watering amount”, potentially more than doubling the cost of the scheme

The Network Rail investment authority had approved the access plans for work to start last October

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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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Say no to ID

TO THE EDITOR: I would like to encourage everyone in Bedfordshire to stand-up to the fascist regime in Westminster and say NO to the demands to acquire and produce photo ID in order to vote

This is a Common Law country whose Constitution was founded by Magna Carta We the people need to stand-up to the oppression of an out-of-control government and a parliament who think they are “sovereign”

They are not in control – we are! Stand up for democracy on May 4, by staying away from the polling stations Oppressive regimes should be given no quarter Do not kowtow to their demands and do not support their lies over voter fraud Freedom is hard won Take a lesson from the 1930s before history repeats itself!

Gary Myers CITP MBCS Biggleswade

Maisie is doing her bit for disabled riders

THIS is Maisie, purchased in 2018 by Biggleswade Sandy Lions Club and Bedford Lions for the Bedford Disabled Horse Riding Association (BDHRA)

They continue to support Maisie by contributing towards the cost of her feed and upkeep thanks to your donations

BDHRA is a small independent charity set up 60 years ago to provide therapy for children and adults with physical and mental disabilities. Visit their website www bdhra co uk

Biggleswade Sandy Lions are able to support BDHRA and other local charities and organisations through their fundraising efforts

To find out more about your local Lions group visit www bslions org uk or go to their Facebook page Biggleswade Sandy Lions.

Their meetings are held at 8pm every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month in the Biggleswade Sea Cadets HQ, Station Road, Biggleswade

All visitors are welcome.

The more members they have the more they can do!

Council launches new grant scheme to help voluntary sector

CENTRAL Bedfordshire

Council is launching a new grant scheme to help local charities and voluntary groups supporting people in poverty to continue to deliver their services in the face of rising costs.

Grants of between £2,000 to £10,000 are available, with a total of £120,000 available, which can be used towards an organisation’s increased running costs for the next year

Cllr Tracey Stock, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Communities, said: “Rising costs affect everyone, including charities and voluntary groups who do so much to deliver valued services for our residents Which is why I’m delighted to announce our latest grant scheme for the voluntary sector I hope that groups and organisations throughout Central Bedfordshire who meet the criteria, will apply for a grant to offset some of the additional financial pressures that they are experiencing, and enable them to continue with their good work In effect, we want to help the helpers ”

The one-off grant can be used to fund increases in staff costs; utilities such as energy costs; rent; food and drink; increased transport costs and other running costs that have risen significantly

LOT OF SUPPORT

Cllr Stock added: “There is a lot of support and advice for individuals worried about the rising cost of living, but this extra support for local community and voluntary groups means we can help bolster that support by supporting the people already there on the ground, doing great work ”

Local community organisations and charities with an annual income of less than £600,000 can find the full eligibility criteria on the council’s website by searching for ‘voluntary community grants’ The grant scheme opened on

February 1 and the deadline for applications is 5pm on March 10,

The Council has set up a dedicated information hub for anyone

concerned about the cost of living

This includes information about funding for vulnerable residents to help with food, energy and water

bills and other wider essentials and a network of warm spaces across Central Bedfordshire for people to use when the temperatures drop

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 Northamptonshire Ian Pryce CBE remains CEO, a post he has held for nearly 25 years, but the title of

Principal has been allocated to the individuals charged with heading up the Bedford and Northants (Tresham College campuses)

Central Beds College Principal

Sarah 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 educational offer to meet the future skills needs of Central

Bedfordshire and Luton communities

Prof James Crabbe JP, Chair of The Corporation at CBC, said: “I am delighted to say that the Governing Body of 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 ”

Man jailed for violent knife attack at wake

through sheer luck that it did not have more grave consequences

jailed for six-and-a-half years

Nathan Bibby, 36, of Common Road, Potton, attacked the victim outside a pub in Sandy where the wake was being held in July 2022

The court heard Bibby had left the venue following an argument with the man earlier in the evening, but returned a short while later armed with a knife

He proceeded to stab the victim in the torso several times, in front of numerous witnesses, before fleeing the scene

The victim was taken to hospital with multiple stab wounds and a punctured lung, but has since made a full recovery

Bibby was arrested and later charged with wounding with intent and possession of a bladed article

He admitted the charges during an appearance at Luton Crown Court on Wednesday, January 18, 2023

He was sentenced to six years and two months for wounding with intent and one year for possession of a bladed article, to run concurrently He was also sentenced to four months, to run consecutively, for breaching the suspended sentence order he had been given for a prior assault on an emergency service worker

Detective Constable Jade Heredia, who led the investigation, said: “This was an extremely violent attack that left the victim with serious injuries

“Bibby’s actions show the callous disregard he had for his victim’s life and it was only

“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those who commit violent crimes are held accountable for their actions ”

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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SHUTTLEWORTH COLLEGE IS DEDICATED TO HELPING YOU ACHIEVE YOUR DREAMS

We are a specialist land-based college, meaning we offer courses in Agriculture and Environmental Education, as well as Animal Sciences, Floristry and Outdoor Adventure. We make full use of our natural resources, including a commercial farm, equestrian centre, woodland, walled garden and lakes, all within the stunning location of Old Warden Park near Biggleswade If commuting is too far or you

If you have a passion for the great outdoors and want to pursue or enhance your career in the land-based industries, then this is the place for you Our 500 acre Shuttleworth College campus is not just a beautiful place to study, its unique working environments will provide you with everything you need to succeed

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.

View from the pulpit L AWN DOCTOR

Rt Revd Richard Atkinson – Bishop of Bedford

It is written…

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

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 ’

AROUND THE CLUBS

BIGGLESWADE IVEL TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD

Chairman Ann Taylor welcomed members to the meeting on Monday, February 13 Birthday greetings were given to Glenis Costin

Since the last meeting the walking group met at Priory Marina, Bedford, after two laps of the lake, lunch was enjoyed at Blossom Café The February walkers are meeting at 10 45 February, 23 at Henlow church and lunch will be at the Five Bells

Ahead of the annual general meeting next month, an appeal was made for volunteers to be on the committee next year

The afternoon was our delayed Christmas party and members enjoyed a wide variety of food brought in by the members themselves, followed by a game of beetle

The monthly competition, something beginning with the letter D, was won by Mauren Harding with a donkey ornament, 2nd Sheila Mills with a Jemima puddle duck ornament and 3rd a beautiful photo of a dog submitted by Barbara Gould

The next meeting will be the Annual General Meeting on Monday, March 13 The guild meets on the second Monday of the month 2pm at the Orchard Community Centre, Sullivan Court, Biggleswade new member and visitors are very welcome If you would like any further details, please email the chairman Ann Taylor tayl321321@gmail com

ROYAL ARTILLERY ASSOCIATION

The Biggleswade Branch of the Royal Artillery Association held a Branch Meeting and Annual general Meeting on February 1, 2023

The information sent out in lieu of the cancelled January meeting were read, and 2018 AGM minutes were both read

The Roll of Honour has been re-furbished and will be returned to be displayed in the Town Library

A discussion took place about possible venues for trips in 2023 Suggestions were Bletchley Park, a return to The Shuttleworth Collection and the Signals Museum at RAF Henlow

At the AGM the Branch thanked Mick Jones who again made a donation to the Welfare fund Members were reminded that the 100 Club needed their continued support and that a number of tickets are available

The Royal Artillery Association exists to look after the welfare of and foster comradeship between members of the Royal Artillery both serving and retired ExService personnel of other Arms or Regiments who wish to share the camaraderie are welcome The Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sea Cadets Hall, Biggleswade starting at 13 30hrs

Please contact the Chairman Ted McKenzie on 07900 806235 or E Mail tiger ted@gmail com for more details

THE sudden dramatic changes in temperature are making life a little tricky for gardeners at the moment although it is heartening to see the first signs of spring daring to reveal themselves; forsythias, in some gardens at least, going into flower, primroses illuminating the gloom and for some lucky people, aconites (Eranthis hyemalis) are glistening like scattered jewels

Related to buttercups these enchanting, waxy, though highly toxic flowers, provide much to gladden your eye

Of course, the real harbinger of warmer, brighter times is of course the daffodil and their annual blitzkrieg upon our senses is imminent

Forgot to plant any?

Ready grown options are available and work their wonder in exactly the same way and I urge any of you struggling with the state of the world currently to treat yourself to a couple and place in locations where you will see them most frequently

The easiest way I know of planting some sunshine!

Last month’s just for fun question asked, your next door neighbour cuts a shrub their side so that in time, the material growing on your side will wither and die leaving you to have to get rid of the material

Are you legally within your rights to throw the debris back over the fence?

In short, the answer is ‘no’ Although a resident is permitted to cut material that overhangs their boundary, throwing the cut material back over the fence is absolutely not what the law instructs us to do

The responsible and law abiding citizen is, supposed to offer the debris to the owners of the host plant and if they do not wish to accept it, the responsibility of disposal lies with the person who cut it

In my experience, simply throwing clippings over a boundary is universally disliked and a very easy way of souring relations, even if the problem was created by the neighbours in the first place

This month’s just for fun question is, which one of these is the common name of a plant: Stink Horn, Stinking Bishop, Stinking Iris

And what, if anything, are the remaining two? Answer next month!

For all those that have asked, the answers to this year ’s Christmas Quiz are as follows: 1 Which plant takes its name from the Italian phrase for beautiful women? Belladonna 2 Which grain is used to make semolina? Wheat 3 Which plant, widespread in Britain, if touched causes a serious chemical reaction which makes skin hypersensitive to ultraviolet light?

Giant Hog Weed 4 Which kings lived at Kew Palace at Kew Gardens? George II and George III 5 Which garden plant in the 17th century was exchanged as a form of currency? Tulips in The Netherlands 6 What is the art of cutting shrubs into ornamental shapes called? Topiary 7 Soil can be acidic, alkaline or what? Neutral 8 Where is the biggest tree in the world, giant sequoia, found? California, USA 9 What fruit hit, or more likely fell, near Isaac Newton and helped him develop the law of gravity? Apple 10 I am a woody stemmed plant, usually branched near the base and lacking a single trunk what am I? Shrub 11 On which continent did broccoli originate? Europe 12 What herb beginning with ‘A’ has soothing properties? Aloe Vera 13 Roughly, how many varieties of avocado are there? 5, 50, 500 or 5,000? 500 14 For how long can seeds remain dormant? Months, a few days, years or one season? Years 15 How long does it take to produce asparagus the first time you plant it? 2 to 3 Years

As always, should you have any questions or any other correspondence please email me via lawndocgardens@aol com or telephone 01767 627 581 And please contact me with any gardening queries or tasks you may have

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

BIGGLESWADE TOWN FC

Mixed bag of results for the new year

by Mike Draxler

Saturday January 28

BARTON ROVERS......................0

BIGGLESWADE TOWN ............1

WOW, it’s been a while most of December and January wiped out due to weather but the Waders are back and with a win away to neighbours

Barton Rovers

Some new faces have arrived since our last game notably Sam Tinubu on loan from Stevenage FC and straight into the starting line

Considering we have not played since January 7, with only training continuing, match fitness was impressive Eager to get going as Jake Bunyan and Charlie Smith showed some real pace in the midfield Sam Tinubu the holding player spraying the ball out left and right

Barton gave the Waders a few scares but once the team had got to the pace of the match, the visitors dominated the play Bunyan and Smith free running on the wings On 26 the ball worked its way through to Jon Clements who made no mistake from the edge of the six-yard box It could and should have been more but perhaps a little ring rusty the score was just 0-1 at the break

Barton came out with renewed vigour after the break and contained the visitors but with Biggleswade, their noses Infront did not let the game slip Replacing Bunyan Mampolo and Smith with Howe, Onyeagwara and Clark gave fresh legs to the Waders mid-way through the second period and although there were chances for both sides, three points were secured

Saturday, January 31

COUNTY CUP 1ST ROUND

BIGGLESWADE TOWN ............1

BIGGLESWADE FC ....................1

Both pride and passion were on display in abundance as Biggleswade FC visited their former home for the second time in just over a month Chests puffed up, the home side went at the task with style Quick, slick passing contained the visitors in their own half for long periods it took just under 10 minutes for the inevitable to happen as a through ball from Jon Clements into the path of Jake Bunyan saw the youngster heading goalwards and beating the advancing keeper with a well placed shot The visitors looked dangerous and hit the bar in reply 1-0 at the break

Out for the second period roles reversed as the visitors pressured the home defence On 60 Adam Hunt in a crowd of players threw the cup tie back into the melting pot as he netted With Biggleswade FC netting their first penalty, the reply was a shot that hit the post and rebounded back to the halfway line The visitors netted all their five takes with the home side going out 5-3 in enthralling match

Wednesday February 8

BIGGLESWADE TOWN ............4

AYLESBURY UNITED ...............1

The Waders returned to league action against a struggling Aylesbury side who are having a torrid time, with only one win in eleven, not surprisingly Biggleswade took up the baton and ran with it

Yet more forced changes for the home side, Liam McDevitt absent with a hand injury New signee Lewis Thorpe stepping in Aylesbury were resilient for the first twenty minutes but once the defence was breached, capitulation was inevitable Jon

Clements on 21 with touch at the back post, hotly disputed by the visitors for offside but appeals waved away Not to be out done Harry Draper dropped in on the act with a powerful header at the back post,following a corner on 28, followed by a solo run on 42 as Harry, slid the ball past the advancing keeper 3-0

After the break the easing off was obvious, with the game won the Waders were happy for containment with the occasional sorte upfield On 62, Jon Clements matched his strike partner Draper netting the fourth Wader goal, spinning in the box and tucking the ball away Aylesbury clawed one back on 68 as Jack Moriarty connected with a cross

Saturday, February 4

BIGGLESWADE TOWN ............1

BERKHAMSTED ........................2

Berkhamsted arrived in Town with a swagger in the step and a confident air but well they might as they have topped the division for months A real test for the home team

Not off to the best start as what was described, not by me, as a soft penalty, Ryan Blake hit the floor allegedly inside the box Jonathan Lacey stepped up to defeat Timmy Smith and put the visitors a goal to the good on five It took what seemed like forever for the Waders to get to the pace of the game Once at boiling point, that’s what the match did Up and down blow for blow as both sides gave all, the passion warming the cold night air But despite Jon Clements and Jake Bunyan’s best efforts prodded by Sam Tinubu and Charlie Smith, Waders could not get the break through At the break 0-1

After the half time orange Harry Draper was pushed upfront from the back line where he was standing in for Liam McDevitt who is out injured Clements and Draper make a formidable pair of strikers but well marshalled by the visiting defence On 59 came the breakthrough as Jon Clements somehow got his toe to the ball from a scramble of players and we all watched the ball dribble over the line The highs and lows of football, with the elation just topping out and Berkhamsted are down the other end restoring the lead on 60 through Bradley Wadkins Thirty minutes of effort and close calls gave the challenging Waders full respect Berkhamsted’s game play admirable but annoying slowed and broke the game up Berkhamsted were good at the game management

Saturday, February 11

.......................................4

HADLEY

BIGGLESWADE

TOWN ............2

It was a first time visit for the Waders to the home of Hadley FC just outside Barnet, but your reporter had memories around the turn of the century visiting with my previous club Much has changed in the interveening years although it is the same pitch, the club facilities have taken them into the required ranks of the ground grading system of level 4 football One thing that had not changed was the ability to win a game at Hadley

It all started so well, one up inside 5 minutes Harry Draper was felled in the box, Jon Clements smashed the spot kick passed Luke Ward the home keeper It was all Waders playing the football and creating the chances, rue the day, not taken On 30 minutes keeper Timmy Smith suffered a back injury and was replaced by Harry Smart, on the bench for just these occasions Smart did well and commanded his area letting the oppo-

sition know he was a real keeper and not an outfield player with gloves A lucky strike on 40 by central defender Moise Ndandani looped over the whole defence, keeper alike to level the score All square at the break 1-1

After the break and before I was in my seat Hadley had scored again, a header at the near post by that man Ndandani again Waders now left to chase the game did so in a methodical Wader ’s type way Pressing forward Charlie Smith bundled the ball over the line on 76 Two goals in a minute followed on 84 and 85 Near replicas of each other as Billy Hayes found space in the box to power past the despairing keeper At the final whistle it just felt like yesterday once more!

Tuesday, February 14

BIGGLESWADE TOWN ............4

WARE ............................................2

Valentine’s night at the Yvette Brewer Stadium brought with it a fascinating contest with the home fans certainly feeling the love and the true gritty character of this current Wader squad

After last Saturday, certainly something to prove for this talented squad that lost direction at Hadley With Timmy Smith , Robbie Parker and Liam McDevitt all out injured, Harry Smart kept his place in goal with Draper, Howe,Thorpe and O’Keefe keeping him company in the back line

The football flowing as it has for most of the season Lanre Ladipo Sam Tinubu, Jake Bunyan and Luke Middleton filling the midfield Jon Clements and Francis Mampolo at the sharp end The passing short, long, but accurate as Biggleswade set about the task

The midfield all played their roles superbly with forward running at pace keeping the Ware back line on their toes Ware had their moments with Theo Ofori a tricky oponent that was able to turn defenders

The match so fascinating the time went by so fast Sam Tinibu it was who got the first on 26 a powerful shot after the ball re-bounded back to him On 40 Jake Bunyan slipped his marker to notch up a second just before the break

As is the way of football, Ware came out with renewed vigour and were soon back in the game through Declan Nche on 54 and Theo Ofori on 62 after turning the Wader defence every which way Composure needed, and that is what we got as Biggleswade came alive again

Man of the Match Lanwre Lapido sprinting into the box to slide the ball past the oncoming keeper on 70 Next up Francis Mampolo on 78 repeating Lapido’s goal after slipping his marker on the far right to power the ball past the keeper

At 4-2 Ware set about righting the damage Smart with a save way to his right, the crowd unable to believe the magnitude of the finger tip save With the clock ticking down an extra six was added for injury time but the Wader resovle stood firm to collect the three points

Saturday, February 18

BERKHAMSTED ........................1

BIGGLESWADE TOWN............0

Having played Berkhamsted twice in as many weeks, let us put this performance by the Waders into perspective

Berko as they are affectionally called have played 25 games, scoring 68 and conceding just 19 at this level they are a complete team, pressure from the first till the final whistle Biggleswade gave as good as they

were given chasing down and not giving the home side time on the ball

Not many chances for either side as both back lines did a magnificent job Throw into the mix that during the 90 Biggleswade lost Harry Draper on 38, Joe Howe on 47 and Lewis Thorpe on 80 all injured

A penalty on 81 for the home side gave Jonathan Creasy the chance to preserve Berko's home record of 19 consecutive wins Creasy made no mistake Biggleswade pressed forward as the majority of the players were now attacking midfield players Henry Clark scared Berko as he hit the bar from 50 yards The best chance fell late to Mampolo but could not get that important touch

Tuesday, February 21

WALTHAMSTOW .......................3

BIGGLESWADE

TOWN ............2

After the magnificent effort against Berkhamsted, the match leaving Wader forces depleted Well done the management as they secured the loan of four players from a local side With just over 33% of the team never having played together or met, the task against Walthamstow team increased

The flowing football style of Biggleswade appeared to be replaced with a "route one" option to accommodate Wraynel Hercules a fast running forward up top with the also speedy Jon Clements

Five in and the Wader defence was caught napping as a free kick whipped in was not cleared and Jordan Watson nipped in to flick past

BIGGLESWADE UNITED

You are the reason we play football on a weekly basis It is to provide you with quality grass roots football that we train, volunteer, play, and very often win!

You are the mainstay of our club and are all living examples of the power of the beautiful game to bring communities together But you too can do more to help keep your club afloat

You could sponsor a player, or a game You could join our growing team of volunteers to help with match day organisation, help our media department or assist with fund raising There are endless opportunities for you to get more involved and enrich the experience of being a BUFC fan

If you’d like to help in any way or are interested in learning about sponsorship opportunities please contact William Glasswell at willglass21@gmail com

But for now, we look forward to continuing to entertain you on a weekly basis, our Men’s First Team, our Reserves, our two Senior Women’s teams and our five youth teams Together we thank you most sincerely for your support ; helping us to make a difference in our community

And March looks like being a

the stranded Harry Smart

Walthamstow increased their lead on 38 as Callum Ibe netted from close in Waders started to return to their passing game making headway into the Walthamstow ranks No success at the turn round, 2-0

After the break certainly a different team as Charlie Smith and Francis Mampolo came on to replace Tinubu and Clark Smith started to pull the strings playing the ball about the whole pitch It was Charlie himself who put Biggleswade back in the match, his free kick striking the wall,

busy month with our men’s first team playing no fewer that nine league matches, away to Harpenden Town on the 4th (ko 3pm) and then home to Dunstable Town on the 7th (7 45pm), Leighton Town (9th at 7 45pm), Leverstock Green (11th at 3pm) and then Tring Athletic (14th at 7 45pm) We then travel to Ardley United on the 18th (ko 3pm) before returning to the Keech Hospice Care stadium where we will face Potton United (21st ko 7 45pm), St Panteleimon (25th 3pm) and Risborough Rangers (28th 7 45pm)

Our women’s red team face four fixtures, away to Fakenham Town on the 4th and Haverhill Rovers on the 19th and home to St Ives Town on the 12th and AFC Dunstable on the 26th all games kicking off at 2pm

Our reserves are home to Biggleswade Fc (4th at 3pm), Elstow Abbey (8th at 7 30pm), AFC Kempston (15th at 7 30) and Queens Park Crescents (18th at 3pm) and travel away to Crawley Green on the 11th (ko 2 30pm) while our ladies blue side are at home to Hitchin Belles (March 12) and Wormley Rovers Ladies (16th) and away to Harpenden Town (5th) and Coilney Heath Ladies (19th)

All matches kick off at 2pm

wrong footing the keeper to make it 2-1 Waders looked good threatening down the flanks Walthamstow? They had other ideas as a loose ball came out to Fabion Simms on77, whose thunder shot hit the roof of the net at pace Disappointment but with Marcus Goldbourne coming on to replace Hercules, Goldbourne injected a little pace down the wing On 84 captain Dan Brathwaite got Biggleswade back in the game following in from a corner We had the chances in the last minutes, but not to be as the score finished 3-2

Sandy Conservative Bowling Club – update

IN an out-of-season friendly game, Sandy Conservative Bowling Club played St Neots Indoor Bowls Club on the rinks at St Neots The mixed Triples were played in a friendly spirit, and along with the meal afterwards, enjoyed by everyone

Most of the Sandy team are outdoor players, but a group had previously been practising indoor skills at Potters Leisure Resort in Norfolk, venue of the recent World Indoor Bowls Championship

The extra practice helped to keep the final score to a close St Neots 98, Sandy Con 93

The Sandy club members are looking forward to the new season beginning in April, with the green in top condition after treatment over winter

Last year we were back to normal after two difficult years, with all the Saturday and Wednesday Friendly games enjoyed as usual

The competitive teams did very well, and the club is particularly

proud of the men’s team: G Albone, R Barker, I Jones, D Munns, G Osborne, D Payne, B Rouse and J Wiseman who

brought back to Bedfordshire the prestigious London and Southern Counties Challenge Shield (pictured below)

BIGGLESWADE UNITED

Huge thanks to the sponsors

By Guillem Balague Chairman Biggleswade United

With our adventures in the FA Vase a thing of the past following our 5-1 defeat to Coventry Sphinx in the fourth round it’s back to concentrating on the no less important bread and butter matters that we have to deal with here at Biggleswade United

How we perform off the pitch is just as important as anything we managed to accomplish on it, and this week we take a moment to mention our sponsors and to discuss the importance of fund raising in general

At the end of last season we lost our long term sponsor Top Eleven due to a restructuring in their company This left an enormous hole in our finances and the race began to find a sponsor before the new season began We had to buy kit, buy stock for the club house bar and allocate funds for general running costs for things like ref and ground fees Running a football club is an expensive business!

Fortunately two companies came to our rescue Winchmore Brickwork agreed to sponsor our men’s First Team for the season and VEO, the sports camera streaming giant, agreed to sponsor our two women’s teams, ( meaning that women players would not need to pay to play for us!) Suddenly we were able to start the season with sufficient available funding to meet our immediate costs To both

Winchmore and VEO we owe a huge debt of gratitude Thank you!

Our Reserves and Youth teams were equally fortunate as local companies stepped forward to offer financial support for individual teams Surfin, Flawless Landscapes, JMB Motorsport, Biggleswade Carnival, Sarah Perkins, Hear 2 Listen, MVMLtd; AK Builders, Potton, Reactiv8 have all provided generous funding to enable our club to continue to grow and develop this season Quite simply, we would not be able to function as a viable sporting facility without them Their contribution to our club and, by extension, the wider community is invaluable

Of course, fund raising is an ongoing process Next season will see us restart our efforts to maintain our teams and hopefully we can keep many of our present sponsors on board

But we continue to launch new initiatives We’ve just started selling replica kits in a local store, Mr Branson’s in Market Square Pay them a visit for your BUFC scarves, hats and kit We’ll also be holding a number of fund raising events throughout the remaining season which will include our partner Keech Hospice Look out for their collection buckets at our home matches

Whilst we devote this column to our generous sponsors, we should not avoid offering our heartfelt thanks to all our fans and supporters, whether local or in far away places

by Antony Molinari

Saturday, January 21

CIRENCESTER TOWN ..........4

BIGGLESWADE FC ................1

Biggleswade FC lost their first game since November, as they went down 4-1 to a very good Cirencester Town side

The Centurions dominated the ball in the first half and must have done their homework on FC, as they pressed very high, refusing to let the visitors play their game They took a deserved two goal first half lead, both of which Dan Green in goal should’ve done better with

The impressive 40 or so Biggleswade Fans that made the two and a half hour journey down were hoping for another comeback but those hopes were dashed as FC soon found themselves 3 down just after the break, Lawrie Marsh did manage to pull one back before a poor day got worse as the home side ran out 4-1 winners

Saturday, January 28

BIGGLESWADE FC ................1

WELWYN GARDEN CITY 0

Biggleswade bounced straight back after last week’s disappointing defeat with an extremely hard fought 1-0 win at home to Welwyn Garden City, mainly thanks to an outstanding second half performance from Dan Green in goal for FC

Tom Coles had an early chance as he got on the end of a through ball from Adam Hunt, rounded the keeper but could only put the ball wide

He done better on the 33rd minute though when he headed in after a great ball from Lawrie Marsh found Adam Hunt on the wing, who in turn picked out Coles arriving late at the far post

The second half saw a much improved Welwyn side as they went for an equaliser However, they came up against an impassable Dan Green, who pulled off a succession of impressive saves, the best of which coming on the 58th

minute, diving full stretch to his right and clawing the ball back

It finished 1-0, an important win against a side with play off aspirations of their own

Saturday, February 4

AFC DUNSTABLE 1

BIGGLESWADE FC ................2

Biggleswade took three points against play off rivals Dunstable when George Bailey netted with yet another last minute winner for the visitors

Not at their best and always a tough place to go, FC will be delighted claiming their first 3 points at Creasey Park

The game was a scrappy affair throughout, the home side making use of their physicality and putting in some tackles that were rather on the late side

However, despite this, FC tried to play football and were the better side in the first 45, leaving Dunstable to hit hopeful long balls that were never going to trouble the visitors defence

They were rewarded for trying to play the game the right way late on in the first half when a good FC move in the middle of the park saw Adam Hunt brought down in the box, the ever reliable Alex Marsh stepped up to convert the spot kick, smashing the ball into the top right corner

To their credit the home side rallied at half time and came out after the break looking to level the scores, FC couldn’t get a foothold in the game and the pressure eventually told in the 60th minute when a needless free kick was given away on the right hand side, the corresponding free kick was then forced home from a stooping header at close range

For the next 30 minutes the game looked destined for a draw, but then as the game ticked into the 90th minute, Hunt received the ball after good work from Marsh, his cross was initially blocked but George Bailey just on as a substitute after a lengthy layoff due to

injury, tucked in the loose ball

Saturday, February 11

BIGGLESWADE FC ................4 HERTFORD TOWN ................1

An Alex Marsh hat-trick gave Biggleswade FC the three points on what was a comfortable Saturday afternoon at the Eyrie

A number of times this season

FC have been slow out the blocks and I know Mark Inskip has been referring to this now for a number of weeks in his post-match interviews, so I’m sure he would’ve been delighted with the start they made, the opening minutes it was clear the home side were on their game, the early pressure soon told when Tom Coles received the ball about 20 yards out, his side foot shot didn’t look like it would cause too much of a problem but it was extremely well placed right into the bottom left corner and Qamil Dervishaj in goal for Hertford probably should’ve done better, maybe he was a bit unsighted but either way he couldn’t get there and the home side were one up

It was soon two nil in just the 16th minute and the first of Alex Marsh’s hat-trick was from the spot, Reiss Oteng was brought down inside the box after a good run, it was an easy decision for the referee who immediately pointed to the spot Alex stepped up, and in rather unusual fashion for him placed the ball calmly in the bottom right corner, no Panenka this time or top bins, just a simple run up and cool finish

In the 35th minute Marsh got his second of the game, Tom Coles took a shot from the edge of the area, it was straight at Dervishaj but he couldn’t hold it and the rebound spilled to Alex who had a an easy finish from eight or so yards 3-0 and Biggleswade were in cruise control

The half wasn’t finished though, in the 44th minute Dan Green was called into action and made a great one on one stop, the ball wasn’t cleared fully and

Hertford number eight Jesse

Lassen pulled one back to give the visitors hope However, that hope barely lasted a minute when a foul from Lawrie Marsh, saw Hertford number 9 Stewart retaliate and grab Lawrie around the neck and subsequently get his marching orders

After the break Hertford to their credit didn’t give up despite being a man down The game was effectively over when Alex Marsh netted his hat-trick on the 54th minute, fantastic work from Mekhi Angol

Saturday, February 18

BIGGLESWADE FC ................3

WARE FC ..................................3

Biggleswade FC again produced a stirring two goal comeback against play off rivals Ware at the Eyrie on Saturday afternoon

Earlier this season FC drew 22 in the reverse fixture, scoring two goals in injury time to steal a point

They didn't leave it quite as late this time around, but it was no less dramatic as Ware raced into a two goal lead in the first 15 minutes, Jack Dryer managed to pull one back in the 22nd minute when Alex Marsh got on the end of a Reiss Oteng cross to set up Dryer, who kept his cool to finish nicely

The visitors though restored their two goal lead early into the second half after a clinical finish from Ofori, however, once again and for the umpteenth time this season Biggleswade fought back, a stunning Charlie Hayford free kick fired into the top right corner in the 66th minute made it 2-3 and then the ever reliable Alex Marsh converted from the penalty spot minutes from time to take a point after Pat McCafferty was needlessly fouled in the box

The result leaves FC excellently placed in the league firmly in 2nd, with 10 games to go they have a decent eight point gap to third and with a clutch of home games still to come in March a play off spot is now well within touching distance