BedsLife July 2021

FREE J U LY

2021

inside The Danish Camp Visitor Centre Celebrates its 20th Year Bedford Festival Fringe – Our Top Picks Milky’s Music Matters – Upcoming Bedford Gigs WIN Family Tickets to Box End Aqua Park

JULY 2021

£25 Prize Crossword www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

37,000 copies Delivered to Bedford and North Beds Villages

to the July issue of BedsLife Magazine.

Although the news that lockdown easing is being postponed has been disappointing, we have certainly had some of the lovely, warm, sunny weather we were hoping for to cheer us up. It’s been absolutely glorious!

Inside this month’s issue we have gone with an ‘On the Water’ theme looking at local businesses that offer a variety of water sports and fun water-based activities. Mamma’s House gives you the low down on the best local parks to visit with your children and we have a fantastic competition from Box End Park to WIN a family pass to their Aqua Park.

The stunning Danish Camp Riverside Visitor Centre is celebrating its 20th Birthday this month with a weekend of live music (see P19), and we also have the fantastic Bedford Festival Fringe to look forward to with over 150+ events in 11 days across 3 venues (see P50). The Bedford Park Concerts team would like to thank everyone for their patience while they discuss the extended roadmap opening and its impact on their forthcoming July concert series.

Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates @ bedfordparkconcerts We do hope you enjoy this issue and please remember to support the local businesses and services who promote themselves in the magazine each month.

The BedsLife Team

FRE E J U LY

2021

AUGUST ISSUE DEADLINE WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY inside

JULY 2021

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North Beds

Contents

Welcome

Council News Richard Fuller MP Mohammad Yasin MP Volunteer Opportunities The Villager Minibus Heron and Hush Box End Aqua Park Competition The Danish Camp Celebrates 20 Years Mamma’s House Books to get stuck into this July One Size Fits All DBT & Me Tips and Tricks for De-Cluttering The Composing Cook – Spicy Pulled Pork Prize Crossword What’s On Theatre Listings Panacea Museum Exhibition Bedford Festival Fringe ProFlite Professional Flight Simulation Milky’s Music Matters Higgins Museum Exhibition Marston Forest – Dazzling Dragons and Damsels Acorn House Pet Advice The Great Outdoors Gardening – Complete Guide to Composting Bedford Town FC Bedford Blues Advertiser Index Useful Local Resources Last months Crossword Answers

4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 22 24 25 28 32 38 40 42 48 49 50 52 54 56 58 61 64 68 74 75 76 80 82

Don’t forget to check out our website

www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

for even more local articles and lots of interesting and helpful local information!

LIKE our Facebook page BedsLife Magazine to keep up to date with events, offers and local businesses and services.

FOLLOW us on @bedslife_magazine and @bedsLife DISCLAIMER

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

council news Bedford Borough launches a Summer of SEND Bedford Borough Council, The Parent Carer Forum and BLMK CCG are hosting The Summer of SEND.

much more for everyone. So far you can book to engage with specialist SEND parenting sessions, attend dedicated training sessions on Dyslexia and ADHD, and learn about the brand new disability employment information page.

For 2021, organisers have been hard at work, looking at the best way to engage with as many children, young people, parents and carers as possible in Bedford Borough and so, The Summer of SEND was born.

If you have any topic ideas or would like to put on an event and be part of Bedford Borough’s Summer of SEND, there is still time. Please get in touch Local.

Offer@bedford.gov.uk.

As part of The Summer of SEND, there are a whole a host of events, webinars, activities, training and

Follow the Local Offer social media and use the hashtag #SummerOfSEND

Success as Bedford Borough wins £22.6m for Town Deal In October 2020, Bedford Borough Council and the Bedford Town Deal Board submitted their Town Investment Plan as part of their bid for up to £25million from Central Government. The Town Investment Plan put forward a clear vision and strategy for how the money will be used in Bedford and identifies value for money projects that will have a positive impact on the town.

The projects submitted in the plan include regeneration of the Station Quarter and Midland Road, public realm improvements to St. Paul’s Square, improvements to town centre junctions and local pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, and investment in Health, Science and Digital Skills and Full Fibre broadband.

The regeneration of the Station Quarter and Midland Road will bring important investment to these spaces as key gateways to the town centre for visitors in Bedford. The regeneration projects will also see investment in walking and cycling infrastructure, which connects the two areas and creates a vibrant corridor to the town centre.

The suggested public realm improvements to St. Paul’s Square will enhance the experience for both

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shoppers and visitors, increasing the vibrancy of the centre of Bedford and promoting the town as a place to meet friends and family and have fun.

The proposed investment in our roads, pedestrian and cycling network will promote greater accessibility and mobility for residents, while relieving pinch points across the town centre, reducing congestion and creating a safer environment for cyclists and pedestrians.

The Town Investment Plan also includes a scheme for funding investment in Health, Science and Digital Skills, through expanding the current offer from Bedford College to allow them to offer spaces to an additional 250 learners each year and improve the learning environment for current students.

The plan also includes a project to support the rollout of full fibre infrastructure across the urban areas of Bedford by a private provider, helping to attract investment from private sector businesses.

Bedford Town Deal projects are required to be completed by March 2026.

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By now, most of us are aware that plastic can wreak havoc on our marine environment and degrade our most precious habitats for centuries. It is important that we find ways to tackle this manmade, and easily avoided, problem and begin the process of clearing the damage already caused.

By 2017, 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic had been manufactured – equivalent to the weight of 25,000 buildings the size of the Empire State Building in New York. Without action to cut demand, it is estimated this will grow to 34 billion tonnes of plastic by 2050: more than 4 times the current level.

The government’s “Resources and Waste Strategy for England” sets out our nation’s plans to reduce, reuse, and recycle more plastic than we do now. The overall target is to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste over the life of the Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan.

For the eight most problematic plastics, such as disposable plastic cutlery, polystyrene packaging, cotton buds and stirrers, we are going faster and have committed to work towards replacing these with recyclable, reusable or compostable equivalents by 2025.

Richard Fuller, MP for North East Bedfordshire This month is “Plastic Free July” – a global movement to reduce our plastic waste.

To keep products in circulation for longer, the government is also taking steps through the Environment Bill to require products to be designed to be durable, repairable, and recyclable, as well as legislating for the use of extended producer responsibility schemes in a way that incentivises more resource efficient design.

These are important early steps towards creating a fully circular economy where we know what we use, where it goes and plan progressively to eliminate all avoidable waste through the supply and consumption chain.

The Environment Bill also includes powers to enable other commitments to implement a Deposit Return Scheme for drinks containers and the introduction of consistent recycling collections across the country.

Next year, the government will also be introducing the Plastic Packaging Tax, paid by manufacturers and importers of plastic packaging that contains less than 30 per cent recycled plastic.

All these measures build on the microbeads ban and the plastic bag charge which was first introduced in 2015 which has successfully prevented billions of plastic bags being sold and ending up in the ocean and environment.

The government is taking bold action to tackle our plastic usage and waste but the best solution to the problem of plastics is a combined and sustained effort by all of us.

There are small steps we can all take to reduce our plastic waste and I would encourage you to get involved and visit www.plasticfreejuly.org for ideas on small ways in which you can take up the challenge.

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Words from

Mohammad Yasin, MP for Bedford and Kempston I’m delighted that this month, Bedford Borough secured £22.6 million as part of the Government’s Towns Fund scheme, which is in addition to the £95 million, as part of the High Streets Heritage Action Zones grant programme run by Historic England.

I am grateful to Bedford Borough Council’s Town Deal Board comprised of a number of business and community leaders, including my office and for the hard work of officers at Bedford Borough and AECOM who were brought in to prepare the bid plans, which brought an ambitious vision for improvements that can now become a reality.

This injection of sorely needed Government funding will provide a boost to the growth and resilience of Bedford town centre, bringing about major projects, including regeneration of the Midland Road area, enhancing our existing assets whilst preserving Bedford’s unique heritage – including a new lease of life for St Paul’s Square – and encouraging new uses and increasing arts and culture so that visitors and residents can enjoy spending quality time in our town centre.

Bringing in Full-fibre broadband will enhance digital connectivity and the ambitious plan to bring new digital and scientific skills to residents through 250 places each year at Bedford College for students to learn Health, Science and Digital Skills is extremely welcome. The measures outlined in the Town Investment Plan, on which this funding has been awarded, are great for cyclists and pedestrians, with plans for wide improvements to make Bedford more accessible.

I’ve been raising the plight of our high streets in Parliament since becoming the MP for Bedford and Kempston, as we have watched store after store close down including Debenhams and Marks&Spencer.

The Covid crisis has only made things worse. Last year alone, nearly 180,000 retail jobs were lost nationally and up to 200,000 more are at risk this year. The move to online retail and the changing nature of the way we shop doesn’t need to mean empty high streets and job losses. It can mean a vibrant community space, with local independent shops, cafes and restaurants.

The cross-party, HCLG Committee that I’m part of is still taking evidence for its inquiry into the long-term consequences of the Covid-19 outbreak on the future of the high street. The Committee will look at the impact of existing measures to support the high street, including the business rate holiday, as well as the broader role of taxation in enabling high street businesses to remain viable.

In June we examined examples of best practice from across the globe as the Committee took evidence from leading academics on urban planning and the built environment. I was very interested in the work of Professor Carlos Moreno, credited with developing the concept of the 15-minute neighbourhood which argues that cities and large towns should be designed or redesigned so that people can access work, food, health, education, culture and leisure within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their home.

We need bold ideas to help unlock the potential of Bedford with a legacy for the future proofing of our town and I very much hope the new investment will mean we can start to do just that.

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watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value.

Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.

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Panacea Charitable Trust – Front of House Volunteer Help to create a friendly visitor-focused environment at the Panacea Museum in Bedford, ensuring all visitors have the best experience possible. Ideal for those interested in history and religion or wanting to build their skillset for employment.

Community Led Initiatives – Mentor You will be offering community-based support across Bedfordshire, making a difference in the lives of people who are vulnerable and often disadvantaged. The role will suit a volunteer who is confident, outgoing, positive and resourceful.

Money Advice – St Andrews as Debt Adviser

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering brings great rewards and your time will be well spent as you support the community around you. We are bringing new opportunities on to our Simply Connect system every week and you can view these and many more at our Simply Connect online facility where you can register as a volunteer and apply.

Search for any of this month’s featured roles by adding the name of the organisation into the keyword field on our Simply Connect opportunity search at cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer

43 Bromham Road, Bedford Call 01234 354 366 or Email: volunteering@cvsbeds.org.uk www.cvsbeds.org.uk 10

Join a team of trained volunteers offering free confidential advice to anyone in Bedford who may have problems with debt or managing their money.

Headway Bedford – Trustee As a trustee you are vitally important in ensuring the continuing success of this enthusiastic group which is affiliated to Headway – the brain injury association. You will help to advise on operational strategy and support the existing team of paid staff and volunteers.

Bedfordshire Opportunities for Learning Disabilities – Treasurer An opportunity to actively contribute to building a strong and financially viable charity that will deliver better outcomes. The Treasurer will see first-hand how efficient management of finances impacts positively on what can be achieved. You will need experience in charity finance.

Hear2Listen CIC – NCS Volunteer Help support the running of the National Citizen service (NCS) programme – a skills-building and social action programme for 16 and 17 year olds.

Run activities encouraging young people to challenge themselves. The requirement is typically for several weeks over the school holiday periods.

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The Villager Minibus Normal service has resumed Thurleigh – Harrold – Lavendon – Olney – Milton Keynes When: 2nd Tuesday of each month Sharnbrook – Felmersham – Odell – Harrold – Lavendon – Olney Market When: Every Thursday

Villager Minibus (Sharnbrook) Ltd is a non-profit making organisation. They are run and operated by volunteers and provide transport facilities to town and village communities throughout North-Bedfordshire via a scheduled timetable.

They own and operate one bus which is designed for easy access.

Anyone can use the Villager and bus passes are accepted on all routes.

The bus is also available for community private hire, provided that hirers conform to the requirements of the law and that the purpose of the hire is appropriate.

Carlton – Stevington – Bromham – Turvey – Cold Brayfield – Olney Market When: Every Thursday Clapham – Oakley – Stevington – Newton Blossomville – Milton Keynes When: 4th Tuesday of each month Melchbourne – Riseley – Sharnbrook – Harrold – Olney – Milton Keynes When: 3rd Tuesday of each month Clapham – Oakley – Harrold – Sharnbrook – Peterborough When: 2nd Friday of each month Sharnbrook/Odell – Harrold – Sainsbury’s (Bedford, Clapham Road) When: 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month Riseley/Thurleigh – Sainsbury’s (Bedford, Clapham Road) When: 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of each month Sharnbrook – Riseley – Melchbourne – Rushden Town Centre / Rushden Lakes When: 2nd Monday of each month Felmersham – Sharnbrook – Riseley – Kimbolton – Huntingdon – St Ives When: 3rd Monday of each month Sharnbrook – Harrold – Newton Blossomville – Milton Keynes When: 1st Tuesday of each month Please Note: They do not operate on bank or public holidays.

For more information and full timetables visit www.sharnbrookvillagerminibus. co.uk or Tel 01234 781920

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Stand Up Paddleboarding: My passion or obsession? Work or play?

All of the above and way more!

If you ask anyone who knows me where to find me, the answer will undoubtedly be ‘on the river!’ And why wouldn’t I be!? A stone’s throw from my house and the jewel in Bedford’s crown.

Moving from Stevenage to Bedford almost 20 years ago now, one of the very reasons I wanted to relocate, way before paddleboarding was known to me or even really in the UK, was to be closer to the water whilst staying close to my family. Bedford was the obvious place, with The River Great Ouse flowing right through the heart of the historic market town and a short twenty minute stroll from my new home took me to the beautiful Priory Country Park, completely away from the hustle and bustle of the town when I

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just needed some calm. Now, the very reason I was originally drawn to Bedford has become the perfect escapism from a busy life and the perfect spot to paddle, not only personally but also for teaching others with my independently owned and operated local paddleboarding business, Heron and Hush.

Heron and Hush is more than a small enterprise, It’s become a SUP community that has grown over the last two years through offering opportunities for all to not just try paddleboarding but to become part of our SUP Club, a weekly meet-up to paddle, socialise and delight in our stunning and everchanging local lake and waterway whilst consuming essential paddle fuel (otherwise known as cake and cookies!) The River Great Ouse is such a treasured area and Heron and Hush wishes to help keep it that way. Sadly, particularly throughout the last year, our green and blue spaces have been subjected to a lot of littering, to the detriment of our local wildlife and environment. To help to be part of the solution, Heron and Hush have run Planet Patrol events to help combat the issues, protect our local wildlife and keep

Paddling in the snow or even in the rain is a fantastic experience but warm summer days are still my favourite. our river clean for all to enjoy. Planet Patrol is a global movement to clean-up our beautiful countryside and waterways, and log the litter found to monitor and share information with the brands and Government to cause industrial change. Our next Planet Patrol event will be in August, these Clean-ups include a £10 voluntary donation to Planet Patrol, all equipment to safely paddle and pick and SUP tutorial. We hope you can join us on our next one!

For me and so many others, Paddleboarding is the ultimate exercise for both body and mind. The feeling of calm and space to disconnect from the daily grind, to completely immerse yourself in nature, nurtures mental wellbeing as much as it does physical health.

For this very reason we also run annual RED January fundraising paddles with all the proceeds going to support incredible mental health charities such as MIND Charity and Sport in Mind.

Our previous and upcoming events include SUP Surf and Race Training opportunities to name but a few for those that have truly caught the SUP-bug and want to widen their skills! This July we’ve teamed up with Kentbased Daddyboards to provide our first SUP adventure weekend in Wales, staying in an eco-built boathouse in a secluded bay. We can’t wait!

Personally, I love to paddle all year round, as long as the conditions are safe to do so, paddling in the snow or even in the rain is a fantastic experience but warm summer days are still my favourite. The long light summer evenings are perfect for a post-work paddle following my day working as a Pastoral Lead at Bedford Free School. My absolute favourite time of the day is sunset and sharing this time with my friends, bobbing about on the river, completely immersed in nature with paddle snacks and a cheeky gin or cider, is my favourite way to end the day, every day!

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WIN!

A FAMILY AQUA PARK SESSION FOR 4 PEOPLE “The Box End Aqua-Park is back for this summer and is even bigger and better than before! Featuring amazing new obstacles and challenges it’s the best summer day out you will have in Bedford!

Swing, climb, jump and slide your way around the different obstacles and try to avoid a total Wipeout! The amazing new ‘Mega-slide’ is the biggest vertical drop Aqua Park slide in the UK! – are you brave enough to take it on....?

Sessions cost £15 per person and include a full safety briefing, free parking and hire of a buoyancy aid.

The Aqua Park is open to 6 year olds upwards. You can check opening times and make a booking at www.boxendpark.com

The Box End Park Aqua Park is the best family Watersports day you can have! It’s also perfect for kids parties.

We are excited to be giving away 2 family pass’s to the Aqua Park, giving you the chance to win the ultimate family day out! To enter simply Email your name to competitions@bedslifemagazine.co.uk no later than Monday 12th July with the Subject “Aqua Park*.

Family pass’s are for up to 4 participants and can be used to book an experience directly with Box End Park anytime this year”

BOX END RD, KEMPSTON MK43 8RQ | INFO@BOXENDPARK.COM

Box End Park is the perfect day out if you are looking for safe, outdoor fun for the kids, a group, or a party!

· Giant inflatable aqua park

· Kids holiday camps

· Kneeboard & Wakeboard lessons

· Open water swimming

· Stand up paddle boarding

· Lakeside cafe, bar & restaurant

Head to www.boxendpark.com for full details and to make a booking.

The Danish Camp

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The Danish Camp Riverside Visitor Centre, a local, family business, opened on 28th July 2001 and celebrate a 20th birthday this year and plan a weekend of celebrations at the end of July.

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Enjoy breakfasts, lunches and Friday suppers, light bites, cakes, snacks or a scoop or two of delicious Kelly’s ice cream PARTY WEEKEND CELEBRATIONS Situated amongst the trees, on the banks of The River Great Ouse in Willington, just 5 miles east of Bedford.

With 275 metres of river frontage, a Norwegian log cabin, a covered and heated terrace surrounded by wooden decked verandas and The Outpost Riverside Bar with a paved terrace and covered, decked area, all overlooking the river with beautiful views of the lakes opposite.

Friday 30th July Rhubarb (Local 6 piece band) 8am till late FREE Admission Saturday 31st July The Pride (8 piece band playing rocksteady, reggae and ska) 8 till late Tickets £15 Over 18’s only www.danishcamp.co.uk/

Adjacent is The Moated Site with wildfowl collection and although in private ownership, is an English Heritage Scheduled Ancient Monument and one of the few water-filled moats remaining in Britain today.

Enjoy breakfasts, lunches and Friday suppers, light bites, cakes, snacks or a scoop or two of delicious Kelly’s ice cream, all served with good quality coffee or a drink from one of three fully licensed bars.

Experience the river from one of the little green hire boats, take a river trip on The Artful Dodger with Ozzie, the European Eagle Owl on board.

For something more energetic, hire a bike and explore the surrounding cycle paths or just take a relaxing walk in the surrounding countryside.

Danish Camp has a year-round a programme of events with live music evenings, fireworks extravaganzas and Viking Invasions on Bank Holidays. Festive lunches and suppers and New Year’s Eve Parties.

Danish Camp also is a place where families, friends, groups and businesses get together for weddings ceremonies and receptions, anniversaries, birthdays, special celebrations and events.

PLEASE NOTE While government restrictions are in place it is not possible to offer all services detailed above. Please check www.danishcamp.co.uk for upto-date information and Danish Camp Facebook page for posts and events.

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A Walk in the Park We love getting outdoors, especially in the Summer.

This past year we have all depended on parks and open spaces to play, exercise and to help our mental health. This month we celebrate Love Parks Week nicely paired with National Picnic Month, and so we have taken a look at some of our favourite local play parks. The best bit is you don’t have to spend a lot (or any) money to have a fun time out. Why not pack a picnic and a ball too.

Bromham There’s a lovely park hidden in Bromham on Chestnut Avenue. It has all your usual swings and slides for lots of fun. What we like best is that right next to it, is a huge field; which is great for a picnic and a game of catch.

Great Denham Great Denham has a big sand park by the Pavilion. It has lots to do for a range of ages, but probably best known for its huge climbing frame and slide. It has a big variety of play equipment to climb and slide down. My kids love running up and rolling down the hills too. If you haven’t been before it’s worth a visit.

You can even go for a nice circular walk or bike ride.

Mowsbury Park Mowsbury Park is one of the better known parks in Bedford. There’s lots to do for small children with two play parks, one with sand and climbing equipment as well as swings and slides. It has a lovely cafe that serves lots of delicious food and treats. There’s also a wooded area to explore, as well as a BMX track.

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Wixams Wixams has a few lovely parks and walks. Our favourite has to be what we call the ‘Parrot Park’ on Brooklands Avenue. It has sand, some little huts and a huge slide you have to climb up to get to. It also has some tyre swings. It’s a great little park for toddlers and slightly older kids too. There are two other parks, one has a pirate ship with sand and swings aswell as a zip wire. It has a lovely view of the lake, and lots of swans and cygnets this time of year. There is also a third park on Green Lane, with more swings and sand as well as play equipment for older kids. Definitely worth a look if you are in the area.

Wootton There is an excellent park in Wootton, just behind the Village Hall. It has a small sensory area, as well as lots of play equipment for toddlers and slightly older children. It’s really interactive, and has a swing you can sit in with your baby so you can swing together.

It also has a ground trampoline, an accessible roundabout and lots to climb and sit in such as a car and fire engine. It is next to a big playing field and a skate park too.

Remember to keep our play parks tidy, bin your rubbish and if there are no bins or they are full, take your rubbish home.

I’d love to hear your favourite parks, tag me with your recommendations @mammas_house on Instagram.

TINSLEYS RIDING SCHOOL British Horse Society Approved Licensed 5 Star Rating Established 1977

Suppliers of personalised sweet pouches full of retro sweets, individual sweets or any combination personally chosen for your own requirements or colour scheme.

We offer a warm welcome with friendly, professional coaches offering training for enjoyment and progression.

We have a lovely group of more mature riders; if you are new to our riding stables and would like to ride with us, please email with your riding ability and hopefully we will be able to help.

Sweet filled letters to order supplied vacuum packed so they reach you in perfect condition and contamination free.

Ideal fun for any occasion birthdays, gender reveal, weddings, party’s, gifts or just an excuse for having sweets!!

Please contact for absolutely any requirements

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TOP END VILLAGE STORES ANIMAL FEED & BEDDING www.topendfarm.co.uk

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Calor Gas always in stock

Wide and competitive range of horse and animal feed, supplements and stable essentials Paddock fertilisers, grass seed, post and rail, stock fencing, chicken wire, electric fencing and accessories Hay, straw, haylage, shavings, sundown, wood pellet bedding etc Stable and field mats, reclaimed sleepers, rat bait, horse carrots Layers pellets, poultry bedding, feeders, treats and poultry supplements always in stock Plus dog food and treats, wild bird feed, rabbit and small animal feed, small holder feed too Large free car park (horse lorries welcome) Fast and free delivery (T&Cs apply) Shop open 7 days a week

Top End Farm Little Staughton Bedfordshire MK44 2BY 01234 376426 topendfarm@btconnect.com To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

23

Books to get stuck into this July Whether you fancy a modern romance or a fast-paced thriller, a study of sport or a delicious cake recipe, July’s book releases have you covered.

Happy Cooking: Easy Uplifting Meals and Comforting Treats by Candice Brown (July 1) “The kitchen has always been my happy place – it’s the only place I feel completely at ease,” explains The Great British BakeOff champ Candice Brown on her delectable new cookbook.

Including everyday favourites such as chicken nuggets, cinnamon pastry twists and brown butter macaroni cheese along with ‘therapy’ recipes which use the meditative qualities of baking and cooking to ease an anxious mind, this is the kind of cookbook you will return to again and again when you are craving comfort.

The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller (July 8) Having worked for almost a decade as Senior Vice President and Head of Drama Series at HBO – developing and overseeing such shows as The Sopranos, Six Feet Under and The Wire – it should come as no surprise that Miranda Cowley Heller’s debut novel is an impressive work of captivating storytelling.

Set over 24 hours and across 50 years, The Paper Palace is as elegant and intoxicating as the scorching August day in Cape Cod on which it is set.

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Rabbit Hole by Mark Billingham (July 8) From The Sunday Times bestselling author of the Tom Thorne crime series comes this complex and compelling new thriller, set in the sinister corridors and wards of a psychiatric hospital where there is a killer on the loose. For DC Alice Armitage, a methodical and tireless game of cat and mouse begins as she races to find the truth from within the wards, for she herself is a patient.

Relentless: Secrets of the Sporting Elite by Alistair Brownlee (July 8) Whether you are training for your first half marathon or are simply a devoted sports fan, double Olympic champion and one half of Britain’s finest triathlon duo, Alistair Brownlee’s ambitious new book seeks to answer one of sport’s greatest questions: what does take it take to become a champion?

From Ian Poulter to Ian Botham, this is an extensive and thorough exploration of an athletes’ inner workings.

The Lock In by Phoebe Luckhurst (July 22) Whilst nursing the hangover from hell, Ellen stumbles downstairs to discover the kitchen slowly filling with water.

Panic quickly sets in, and the three flatmates find themselves in the attic desperately attempting to switch off the water supply. But when Ben, Alexa’s Hinge date from the night before, walks in, the door slams, the handle breaks, and all four of them are trapped…

The exhibition opens on Thursday 15th July.

More information can be found here: panaceamuseum.org/visiting/visitor-information

One Size Fits All ‘One Size Fits All’ is an anthology of poetry written by Tracey Lingwood and the people of Bedfordshire and Luton. The book was inspired by Ben Salmons who works for the East London Foundation Trust and his ‘Let’s Break the Stigma’ campaign about mental health.

Tracey stumbled across Ben’s collaboration with The Higgins Art Gallery and Museum in Bedford one day on the internet, and the display of poetry and artwork created by the people of Bedfordshire, young and old. She contacted Ben and after a couple of conversations the idea for ‘One Size Fits All’ was born. Drawing from her experience as a special needs teaching assistant, and a

career working in the NHS Tracey started the anthology with her own pieces of poetry then with the help of Niki Scott, Aisling O’Callaghan and Jenny Doe of CAMHS, started to collate poetry from the service users of CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) and East London Foundation Trust - “Why sail in the boat alone when we can ride the storm together” ‘One Size Fits All’ is due for release on Amazon in the next few days and all proceeds will be donated to CAMHS Child Adolescent Mental Health Services across Bedfordshire and Luton and has been fully endorsed by both CAMHS and the East London Foundation Trust.

25

Vision really matters Did you know that sight is the sense people fear losing the most. Having regular sight tests can detect changes in your eyes long before you notice changes in your vision.

Humphriss & Burgess have been caring for your eye health since 1947. Located on Mill Street you can be assured of a relaxed environment with no sense of urgency like you can sometimes find in the High Street opticians. They are a family friendly optician offering both private & NHS eye exams for everyone in the family. On visiting this business, you will always receive a friendly welcome, a cuppa and most importantly you will be personally looked after, from a tailored eye examination or contact lens consultation, through to spectacle dispensing and fitting. You will see the same friendly face at every appointment.

A large range of quality frames and lenses are available to suit all budgets, with designs including those by Ted Baker; Joules; Radley; Stepper; Storm; William Morris and Superdry. You can also choose from their stocked Sports Vision sunglasses suitable for a whole variety of sports from cycling, golf, fishing and Snowsports to just name a few. Low vision magnifying aids are also available.

26

New this year Humphriss & Burgess are introducing a ‘Colour Vision Clinic’ to help people with visual stress and dyslexia symptoms.

With summer here, speak to the team about their range of children’s and adult’s glasses with magnetic ‘clip on’ sun lenses. A great solution for eyewear and prescription sunglasses.

Also, new this year, Humphriss & Burgess have introduced a ‘Colour Vision Clinic’ to help people with visual stress and dyslexia symptoms. For more information about this particular element please visit www.ceriumvistech.com or call in to branch to discuss further. For more information, or to book an appointment

For more information, or to book an appointment, call the team on 01234 354343 or email eyecare@humphrissandburgess.co.uk

Retired Inspired Ready for life’s greatest reward?

Elderswell, a brand new retirement village, coming soon to Turvey.

Beat the queues, register your interest now!

Email sales@elderswell.co.uk or visit elderswell.co.uk

DBT AND ME

Explaining how this advanced psychological coping technique can be positioned to help us through everyday problems.

Interacting with others requires an initial investment of our own – it is about freeing ourselves from the shackles and stresses of our everyday schedules so that we can give friends and loved ones the attention they deserve without our minds being clouded by work or life worries.

DBT – that’s Dialectical Behaviour Therapy to the uninitiated – has really come to the fore in the past few years as a recognised school of thought that guides people through some of the most serious psychological stumbling blocks.

Developed initially to treat borderline personality disorder, with further application for those affected by suicidal or self-harm tendencies, its techniques are now being applied to those looking to weave a path through very simple, everyday problems – from coping with an increased workload to managing childcare.

Tension relief DBT is particularly useful when we are in times of crisis. It provides a quick and effective way to soothe the mind and free the body of anxiety, but first we must get to that place of calm.

Here are some recommended methods, using ‘TIPP’. Each of these will help reverse feelings of distress:

It all adds up to offering effective techniques so that we might use a selection of tools to help combat fear on the way to living a happier, calmer life.

Practising mindfulness This term can sometimes seem vague, but at its core it simply means paying attention to the present to stop intrusive thoughts from sneaking in.

Mindfulness is about being focused on a person’s immediate vicinity, blocking out the stresses and emotions brought about by thoughts that do not have a place or any real practical use in our immediate actions.

Practising mindfulness is very simple. Perhaps begin by sitting in the garden for five minutes and notice all the sights, smells, sounds and sensations around you. Touch leaves, smell flowers, feel the sun on you. Make time and space so that you can practise this skill regularly and you will soon find yourself automatically living more in the moment.

And mindfulness is about more than just sitting in the garden. You

can be undertaking any task that puts you ‘in the moment’. So, think about exercising, being creative and even eating. The focus is on a meditative appreciation of the moment and the positive sensations of those precious seconds in which you are truly enveloped in yourself.

Interacting with others Stressful periods can emanate from things that are polar ends of the spectrum – from increased workload to the sort of boredom we have all encountered through lockdown and, when this anxiety arrives, it can take a toll on even our closest relationships as tensions build.

For this reason, DBT encourages us to nurture both our relationships with others and ourselves. In conflicts, it suggests we take time to listen to the other person, validate that we have heard them, and then practise empathy to further deepen our understanding.

Temperature Splash cold water on your face or hold an ice cube; anything to take the heat from your body Intense exercise Run around the block, do star jumps or jog up and down the stairs to work the tension out Paced breathing Take long steady breaths to stimulate your parasympathetic nervous system Paired muscle relaxation Tense and relax muscles throughout your body until you feel calm

Radical acceptance Life can feel painful and out of our control, but DBT encourages us to accept rather than push back against our reality. Accepting, however, does not mean you have to like what is happening, it simply steers you away from what you cannot control to focus on what you can.

29

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• Brainspotting • Neuro-Linguistic Programming • Timeline Therapy • Hypnotherapy • IEMT • Rewind Therapy • EMDR & Flash EMDR • Kinetic Shift To support women, Bonita has created The Anxiety Recovery School, a FREE Facebook group designed to support women who suffer from anxiety, stress and trauma. This positive group focusses on teaching techniques and strategies to deal with daily overwhelm and support each other, learn and grow together. Join the community NOW and search for The Anxiety Recovery School in Facebook.

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To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

31

Tips and Tricks for De-Cluttering.

Eleni Fantis, Omorfia Interior Design

When I set up my Interior Designer business, I hadn’t anticipated the number of times I would be casually asked by friends and acquaintances ‘Ooh, what can I do with this room?’ (I imagine it’s a bit like doctors being asked at every party ‘What do you make of this mole/wart/rash then?!’)

32

Usually, I’m being asked for colour or decorating advice, however, my first tip will often be to de-clutter, so they have more of a blank canvas and can see what needs to be done.

Generally, our long, dreary winters often mean we are bored and frustrated with our homes by the spring – sparking the need to spring-clean and a sharp upturn in DIY sales.

Given how much time most of us have spent in our homes in the last 15 months, it’s no wonder we might be feeling a bit stir-crazy and in need of a change right now…before you dash off to the nearest DIY or furniture store, however, take some time to do a really good de-clutter, re-organise and deep clean. Here are my Top 10 Tips to help make it as painless as possible!

1. Don’t Bite Off More Than You Can Chew!

Break up your decluttering into manageable chunks – one day, or one room/area at a time. This will stop you feeling overwhelmed, and each task completed will spur you on to complete the next.

2. How Do I Love Thee?

If your hand is wavering over the ‘must keep’ pile, ask yourself these pearls of wisdom from Emily Ley, William Morris and Marie Kondo: • Is it the best, the favourite or necessary?

• Is it useful or beautiful?

• Does it spark joy?

If the answer isn’t a definte yes, it needs to go!

5. Touch It Once!

Follow a simple ‘touch it once’ rule for all paperwork, bills, junk-mail and flyers. As soon as you receive it, deal with it using a shred/file/recycle bin system – you’ll be amazed how much less clutter there is without piles of paperwork waiting to be dealt with!

6. Charity Begins At Home Keep a box in your wardrobe – every time you put something on that doesn’t make you feel fabulous, put it straight in the box ready to donate to your favourite charity shop (This works – if you don’t like something now, you’re not going to like it any more in 6 months’ time!).

3. No More, No More, No More, No More!

Define a storage limit for each category of item you are sorting – one drawer only for t-shirts, one box or basket for craft items, etc.

4. Boxing Clever!

Keep a box handy and place one item in it every day – that’s 365 less bits of clutter in a year!

7. Home & Away!

Remember that your home is just that – not a storage unit for a lifetime of purchases or worse still, a free facility for downsized relatives or flown-the-nest children!

Keeping stuff costs you in time and money, so politely but firmly tell any relatives you are storing stuff and that the time has come to take their belongings to their own homes!

8. I’m Not Crying, You Are! Recognise that it is usually one of two things that make us hoard; Sentimentality (‘but she made me that pasta necklace when she was 5!’) or ‘It might come in handy one day’ syndrome. Accept that the joy of a gift is in the giving and receiving (which you have done) and give yourself permission to buy that item

again in the future (in the unlikely event that you need three odd curtain poles!)

9. Going, Going, Gone!

Understand that just because something is valuable or has been in the family for ever doesn’t mean you have to love it – but someone else will.

Give yourself permission to sell, donate or even upcycle Auntie Mary’s chair if you don’t absolutely love it…but maybe just check it’s not a genuine Chippendale first!

10. The Detested Ex Test!

Think about your very least favourite ex and ask yourself ‘Would I be prepared to contact or visit him/her to get this item back?’ If the answer is a resounding ‘NO’, then you can definitely live without it!

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The Composing Cook The Composing Cook

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INGREDIENTS: For The Pork 3-4kg pork shoulder (1 large joint or 2 smaller ones) 1 onion 1 tablespoon chilli powder 100g brown sugar 4 cloves garlic 1 teaspoon dried oregano 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons salt a good grinding of black pepper 3 tablespoons oil For The Slurry 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 400 ml cold water 1 heaped tablespoon cornflour 4 tablespoons cold water To Serve 2-4 limes 12-16 flour tortillas Serves 6-8

Preheat your oven to 150°C fan 160°C gas.

In a food processor add the onion, chilli powder, brown sugar, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, oil & vinegar. Blitz till you have a fine marinade.

Place your pork joint(s) in a roasting dish and rub the marinade all over, covering the whole joint. Pour the water gently around the joint(s).

Cover tightly with foil and roast in the oven for 5-6 hours.

After 5 hours check to make sure the pork is fork tender. If it is not, cook for a further hour covered.

Remove from the oven, place pork on a resting board for 15 minutes.

In the meantime, make a slurry by mixing the cornflour with the water and you should end up with a milk like consistency (no lumps).

Take the roasting tray with all the juices (if your tin is not gas friendly transfer the juices to a pan) and place it on your hob and turn the heat up until the juices start to bubble. Pour in the slurry and mix with a whisk until the juices thicken and you have a gravy like consistency.

Simmer for a minute and then turn the gas off.

Back to the pork joint(s), remove the fat and string (if yours had string) and using two forks, pull the meat apart.

Pour the juices on the shredded pork and mix. This will ensure the meat stays extra tender.

All you need to go with this is some flour tortillas and lime wedges.

For further video recipe ideas visit: www.youtube.com/TheComposingCook.

There you will find more inspirational recipes.

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For last months answers please turn to P82

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43 41

What’sOn

FUNTOPIA Saturday 3rd July, Sunday 25th July 11am - 5pm Millenium Park (the Rec), Coniston Road, Flitwick, MK45 1QQ A fun-packed event which is perfect for tots to tweens. Filled with bouncy castles, obstacle course, activity inflatables, under 5’s area, sumo suits, interactive play system and much more! Funtopia is ‘pay and play all day’! So when you’ve purchased your wristband you can go on any activity as many times as you like - all included in the price! Please note: some activities have height/age restrictions attached. www.facebook.com/funtopiauk SUNDAY STROLL Sunday 4th July 10.30am – 12.30pm Forest of Marston Vale, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PR Free but donations welcome A guided social walk led by our Volunteers around the Millennium Country Park. We’ll be using surfaced paths so the walk is suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.

WARDEN ABBEY VINEYARD TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC Sunday 4th July 2pm – 5.30pm (Gates open 1.30pm) Warden Abbey Vineyard, Bedford Rd, Old Warden SG18 9LS Bring your Teddy Bears, your picnic, chairs and blankets. Have fun with the bears and watch out for planes from Shuttleworth military air display.

Ice-cream Joe will be calling in at 3pm.

Teddy Trail * Teddy Tots Bear-aerobics * Teddy Tales with our storyteller * Fuzzy Bee Crafts The picnic coincides with the nearby Shuttleworth air-show and there’s usually a chance to spot planes heading our way, although this may depend on which way the wind is blowing.

Advance bookings only. www.wardenvineyard.org.uk/event/picnic-and-planes-4th-july

ST PAUL’S LUNCHTIME CONCERTS St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ Tuesday 6th July NIKITA LUKINOV – Piano Tuesday 13th July 2021 LEAH NICHOLSON – Piano Lunchtime concerts are held every Tuesday at 1.10pm during academic terms and last around 40 minutes. The concerts are free with a voluntary donation.

HOMEMADE IN HARROLD, CARLTON AND ODELL Saturday 10th July Harrold Centre, High Street, Harrold MK43 7BH A celebration of local art, craft and creativity THE FOX AT CARLTON GIN FESTIVAL Saturday July 10th from midday 35 High Street, Carlton MK43 7LA 20 Gins plus live music. Bring a picnic!

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SUMMER MAGIC SHOW! Sunday 11th July from 10.30am!

The Olde Watermill Shopping Village, Barton Mill Lane, Off Faldo Road, Barton Le Clay MK45 4RF Krisgar and Tricky Teddy are finally back to entertain you! Come and enjoy a 30 minute Magic and Puppet show with Krisgar and Tricky Teddy, bringing fun for all the family!

Children £5.00 Adults £2.00 Tickets https://buytickets.at/ thewatermillexperience/518197 BEDFORD FLEA Sunday 11th July 10am – 3.30pm St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ A smorgasbord of quality second-hand goods, talented artists and fresh, locally grown ingredients and homemade produce. www.bedfordflea.wixsite.com/market CEREMONY – A NEW MUSIC ALL DAY FESTIVAL AT BEDFORD ESQUIRES Saturday 17th July 17 12:00 pm - July 18 @ 3:00 am 60A Bromham Road, Bedford MK40 2QG A brand new all dayer from The Pad Presents, The Roar Club and Club Biscuit. We’re extremely proud of the diverse line up we’ve pulled together for the multi room event at Esquires, with blender putting together a strong line up of their own for the outdoor stage. www.bedfordesquires.co.uk/events/ceremony-anew-music-all-day-festival/ BEDS & NORTHANTS MS THERAPY CENTRE MONTHLY CHARITY SALE Third Saturday of every month (Starting 17th July) 10am - 12.00 noon 155 Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9RX FREE PARKING Clothing, Bric a Brac, Books, Linen, Toys and Games Refreshments available Tel: 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com BEDFORD 10K Sunday 18th July Russell Park, Bedford MK40 3RH A brand new 10k race that will serve as a test event ahead of the Bedford Running Festival in September.

We’ve gone the extra mile and have worked closely with the local council to bring you a brand new town-centre course that will weave past many of Bedford’s iconic landmarks. It’s fast, flat, traffic free and you will be rewarded with a highly sought-after bespoke finisher medal. https://www.bedford10k.co.uk/

BEDFORD CRAFT MARKET Sunday 25th July 10am – 3.30pm St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ Amazing smells, personalised gifts, knitwear, plants, baked goods and much more!

Free parking in council run car parks on Sundays.

BEDFORD CHORAL SOCIETY BANDSTAND CONCERT Sunday 25th July Mill Meadows Bandstand, The Embankment, Bedford A musical performance in Bedford’s iconic bandstand https://bedfordchoralsociety.org.uk/ FLITWICK HOT N SPICY FOODIE FEST Sunday 25th July 12 noon Millenium Park (the Rec), Coniston Road, Flitwick, MK45 1QQ Get those taste buds tingly with fiery and tasty delight as you sample some of the best hot and spicy foods. With an array of dishes that can bring a taste sensation you are sure to find something that will delight everyone’s taste buds!

EAT FEAST FOOD MARKET Friday 30th July 4pm – 9pm Riverside Square, Bedford MK40 1AS Food market offering a wide range of tasty meals from popular street food vendors to take away and enjoy https://www.facebook.com/eatfeastco/ DANISH CAMP PARTY WEEKEND CELEBRATING 20 YEARS! Chapel Lane, Willington MK44 3QG Friday 30th July Rhubarb (Local 6 piece band) 8am till late FREE Admission Saturday 31st July The Pride (8 piece band playing rocksteady, reggae and ska) 8 till late Tickets £15 Over 18’s only www.danishcamp.co.uk/

To list an event in the August issue please email christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk by Friday 9th July Due to COVID-19 event information is being updated frequently and events may be cancelled or postponed. Please ensure you check ahead before visiting any event listed.

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A carer and a companion all in one – Elstow Manor introduce their award-winning model of care to the older community of Wixams

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Opening soon, and following in the footsteps of Richmond Manor in Ampthill and Caddington Grove in Dunstable, Elstow Manor will be the third Bedfordshire based care home for the award-winning Hamberley Care Homes group.

Situated on Bedford Road in Wixams, Elstow Manor will offer residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short breaks for the older community, all within a truly luxurious setting.

The 80-bed home includes all the stunning features that you would expect from a high-quality care home, such as a wellbeing and beauty salon, an elegant cafe and bar and a classic cinema.

But as you walk through the doors you’ll notice a radically different way of providing personalised care for older people. Within every Hamberley Care Home you’ll find the awardwinning Homemakers.

“The Homemakers are just wonderful, making every day an experience for residents” - Daughter of a resident

The Homemakers not only provide the highest quality of care, but they focus on the tiny details that make each day special for every resident, from always keeping things clean and tidy, to offering support with hobbies and interests, the Homemakers ensure that every Hamberley care home is a luxury care home with a heart.

“Mum always looks lovely when we visit as the Homemakers take time to make sure her hair, nails and makeup are done giving her the respect and dignity she deserves.”

- Daughter of a resident The Homemakers are committed to delivering an exceptional experience for every resident, and will go out of their way to facilitate activities that help residents embrace life. After all, life is for living.

Book your tour of Elstow Manor today – call the friendly team on 01234 676766 or enquiries@ hamberleycarehomes.co.uk Elstow Manor, Bedford Road, Wixams MK42 6FZ

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From Isolation to Staycation!

Feeling miserable because you can’t jet off to your chosen holiday destination? How about spending some quality time this year, closer to home but still with that holiday vibe?

Come to Blackthorns Sun Club!

With the whole family catered for with a pool, communal BBQ, miniten, petanque and volley ball courts, crazy golf and finska. Not only do you get rest & relaxation within 15 acres of woodland but also a sauna, children’s play area and clubhouse and the chance to attend socials with meals, disco and live music the whole year through. The longest package holiday you could dream of! Vitamin D is known to help fight this respiratory virus of Covid-19 just as it does TB, Asthma and COPD. It’s also a recognised benefit against certain cancers and is vital to maintain strong bones, teeth and muscle and the easiest way to get sufficient quantities is to spend some time outdoors soaking up some sunshine, whilst still taking sensible care not to burn. We are following the Government Guidelines to keep our members safe. Please contact the club to arrange a visit to see for yourselves what we have to offer.

Don’t worry if you’re new to naturism, we will make you feel at home. tel. 07759971899

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47

Theatre Listings 26 St Peters Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN ww.quarrytheatre.org.uk/

Church End, Elstow MK42 9XT Tel 01234 261477 www.quantumtheatre.co.uk

Friday 16th July All’s Well That Ends Wells (Outdoor Theatre) A fairy-tale story of true love finding a way.

Thursday Jul 22nd A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Outdoor Theatre) Shakespeare’s classic comedy of love and intrigue, magic and mayhem will be casting its spell at Elstow Abbey in a bewitching production for all the family.

Friday 2nd July Treasure Island This swashbuckling tale will be lifted from the pages of Robert Louis Stevenson’s much-loved novel and brought to life with sea shanties and sword fights galore!

Saturday 17th July Jay Foreman’s Disgusting Songs for Revolting Children Jay provides a devilishly cheeky hour of songs, poems and comedy for children of all ages in this family friendly show which regularly sells out its entire runs at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Sunday 18th July The Noise Next Door: Run Wild!

(Outdoor Theatre) 2pm Join the stars of Britain’s Got Talent (ITV1) and The One Show (BBC One) for an hour of songs, scenes and gags all based on what the audience want to see Sunday 18th July The Noise Next Door: Out and About 7.30pm Laugh the night away in the great outdoors! Join the quickest wits in comedy as they deliver an alfresco dose of mind-blowing songs, sidesplitting gags and jaw-dropping physicality.

Bradgate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE Tel 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

1st - 2nd July Farewell Leicester Square [Outdoor Theatre] The story of Bedford’s own Joe Clough, Britain’s first black bus driver.

9th July Tess of the D’Urbervilles [Outdoor Theatre] Hardy’s heroine is one of the most moving in all of literature, and her story is hauntingly brought to life in this new version by Hotbuckle.

10th July The Rascally Diner Chef Rufus Skumskins O’Parsley is famous for creating some of the world’s most disgusting dishes. You might know him from the award-winning children’s book The Rascally Cake, written by Jeanne Willis and Korky Paul.

20th - 24th July Swan Theatre’s The Tempest [Outdoor Theatre] 27th - 29th July Suitcase Shakespeare – Romeo and Juliet / Macbeth [Outdoor Theatre] 30th July Jane Eyre Charlotte Bronte’s masterpiece is brought vividly to life in this new stage adaptation.

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Mill Road, Sharnbrook MK44 1NP www.sharnbrookmilltheatre. co.uk

1st - 3rd July - Men of the World Larry, Stick and Frank, three coach drivers, share their experiences of passengers on previous trips to exotic locations such as Folkestone, and getting stuck in the Channel Tunnel for hours. The affection, frustration and black humour in their observations emphasises that you can take the lad out of Yorkshire, but not Yorkshire out of t’lad.

New exhibition opens at the Panacea Museum ‘Edwardian Culture and the Panacea Society’ looks at the lives of middle class women in Edwardian England, and the values conferred on them as they survived the first world war and entered the 1920s.

Safety Precautions The majority of the Museum is open to the public, with a one-way system in place which includes access to the Gardens.

It focuses on employment opportunities, women’s role within the family, leisure time, and the limited roles available in religion and politics.

All visitors to the museum are required to wear a face covering inside the museum, except for those with medical exemptions and children.

Joining the Panacea Society allowed unmarried and widowed women some freedom from their family ties, and gave a purpose and positive meaning to their solo status.

Hand sanitising stations are at each entrance and exit. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and sit in the gardens.

The exhibition includes costume items, previously unseen archive materials, personal objects and art pieces painted by Members.

The exhibition opens on Thursday 15th July.

The museum is open 20th May – 24th October, Thursday – Sunday, 11.00am – 5.00pm.

Entry to the main Museum is free.

More information can be found here: panaceamuseum.org/visiting/visitor-information

New exhibition:

Edwardian Culture and the Panacea Society Open Thurs- Sun, 11am- 5pm COVID safety measures in place

FREE ADMISSION

www.panaceamuseum.org museum@panaceatrust.org 49

The 14th Annual Bedford Festival Fringe From Thursday 22nd July to Sunday 1st August, Bedford will host the 14th International Bedford Festival Fringe bringing to the town a carefully selected programme of comedy, theatre, live music, film, dance & physical theatre, spoken word and poetry. This year, events will be held at The Quarry Theatre.

Expect to see 150+ events in 11 days across 3 venues!

Here are a few of our top picks!

Alfie Moore: It’s A Fair Cop – Comedy 22 July Quarry Theatre (13yrs+) Join Humberside police sergeant-turnedcomedian Alfie Moore for a live version of his critically acclaimed BBC Radio 4 comedy show ‘IT’S A FAIR COP’.

Silent Adventures – Music 24 July Quarry Theatre Fourecourt (All Ages) Join the Silent Adventures Team as we lead you in song and dance around the streets & squares of Bedford for our famous one hour guided adventure.

The Dark Room (For Kids!)

24 July Quarry Theatre (11yrs+) John Robertson returns to Bedfringe with his terrifying, live-action videogame ‘The Dark Room’, now in Family Friendly flavour!

Juliette Burton: ReDefined - Comedy 31 July Quarry Theatre (14yrs+) Juliette’s original show was all about what happened when everything steadfast in her life back in 2018 vanished leading her to redefine her love, life and labels... herself. Now she’s back to explore how recent times have Redefined EVERYTHING.

‘Twas a Dark and Stormy Night - Poetry & Spoken Word 31 July Quarry Theatre (12yrs+) Bedfringe regular, and twice a ‘Bedfringe Sellout’, Mark Steinhardt is back for the eighth time in the last eleven years.

Pip Utton: Einstein - Theatre 1 August Quarry Theatre (13yrs+) ‘Einstein’ is Pip’s latest work. Probably the most famous scientist of all time, Albert Einstein is the image of a crazy scientist, a mad professor. Pip brings to life not only the scientist but a musician, politician, human rights campaigner and a ‘deeply religious Jew who doesn’t believe in God’.

For the full line up and tickets visit

Thomas Benjamin Wild Esq - Music 30 July Quarry Theatre Garden (14yrs+) Bedford’s own viral star returns to Bedfringe. With over 140,000 subscribers and over 8 million views of his notorious, sweary classic ‘I’ve No More .... To Give’ on YouTube alone, Thomas will be bringing his banjolele for a mix of (radio friendly versions of) his original satirical songs and sing-a-long classics.

WWW.BEDFRINGE.COM

Max Fulham & Matt Daniel-Baker in ‘An Extraordinary Evening’ - Comedy 29 July Quarry Theatre (All Ages) A superb evening of Comedy & Mind Reading.

TWO sensational talents perform their extraordinary skills for ONE NIGHT ONLY!

New Zealand’s mountainous Queenstown. We have so many to choose from!

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Our simulator is a faithful replica of the Airbus A320, one of the most widely flown airliners in today’s skies. Fly to some of the world’s most famous and demanding airports and try your skills at landing in challenging weather conditions, just like the professionals. We have more than 100 detailed airports for you to choose from including UK favourites like London Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

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MILKYS MUSIC MATTERS FOCUS ON UPCOMING BEDFORD GIGS 2020 was meant to be a colossal year at Esquires, what with a 30th anniversary to celebrate, venue improvements scheduled in with contractors and an absolutely amazing line-up locked into the diary…and then the world went and changed.

Meeting regularly on zoom, the main promoters (Pad presents, Roar Club and Club Biscuit) would try and maintain some sense of sanity as they faced having to rearrange and juggle dates (several times over) and push events out as far as May next year. With the government releasing dates for the escape from lockdown, the idea of an all-day, multi-room festival was mooted and quickly agreed on. Saturday the 17th

of July was selected and a wish-list of acts quickly drawn-up, Esquires owner Gareth Barber explains; “Everyone has been so supportive of the venue over the last 12 months, so we wanted to put on an event that hopefully will be like a re-opening party and a delayed anniversary celebration rolled into one. The line-up is notable for featuring two female headliners and 75% of the acts performing having either all female line-ups or feature a female member. This wasn’t contrived or even deliberate as myself and the other promoters kept coming up with the same names and when we finalised the line-up we were all really pleased with how varied it was in terms of genre and gender”.

Main stage headliner Billy NoMates performance at the venue will be a precursor to her sold-out October tour and follows rave reviews for her debut album ‘Emergency Telephone’ recorded with Geoff Barrow (Portishead). Big Joanie make their first appearance at Esquires to unleash their post-punk pop hybrid stylings ahead of supporting IDLES on tour early next year whilst the two-piece noise explosion of JOHN (times two) return after headlining the venue just

SUPPORT THE BEDFORD LIVE SCENE – UPCOMING GIGS FOR YOUR DIARY Restrictions have lifted (hopefully), let’s get gigging!!!

Sat 3rd July Daft Funk LIVE + Hitman + Mass C Wed 7th July PVA + Lazarus Kane + Folly Group Fri 9th July 2 Tone All Ska’s Sat 10th July Kirk Brandon (Spear of Destiny) Fri 16th July The Smyths perform ‘Meat IS Murder’ & ‘The Queen Is Dead’ Sat 17th July CEREMONY #1 – multi-stage one day festival (Billy Nomates, Big Joanie, Pins, JOHN, Crows, Feet, Talk Show, Thyla, Lynks, Bleach Lab, Regressive Left, Grandmas House, Lowgirl) Fri 23rd July The Rifles (acoustic) Tue 27th July Squid (SOLD OUT) Fri 30th July Elijah Miller Fri 6th August Guns 2 Roses Sun 8th August Dream Wife Fri 13th – 15th Aug Tom Grennan (SOLD OUT) Sat 21st August Noasis Sun 22nd August Gene Loves Jezebel Sat 28th August Katy J Pearson + many more Check listings at bedfordesquires.com for details or facebook.com/bedfordesquires Tickets available from Esquires, Slide Record Shop and online – seetickets.com

ahead of lockdown number 1. Manchester trio PINS have an ever-evolving sound which has seen them add disco synths to their guitar led pop fuzz and have that instant cool which led them to work with Sir Iggy of Pop. Crows always provide an intense aural thrill ride of volume, threat and gusto whilst FEET have more than an album’s worth of wriggly pop anthems to treat us too.

The inaugural CEREMONY festival will take place at Esquires on Saturday 17th July with a line-up comprising of Billy NoMates, Big Joanie, Pins, JOHN (times two), Crows, FEET, Thyla, Talk Show, Bleach Lab, Regressive Left, Lynks, Grandmas House, Low Girl and Enjoyable Listens. There is also a stage directly outside

the venue curated by BLENDER with performances from Enne, JW Paris, Viddy, Banton and more.

As well as some of the finest emerging artists in the UK, the festival will also be hosting some of the finest cuisines too, with an array of street food vendors for meat eaters, vegans and everyone in-between.

Doors open midday with bands playing until 11pm with an aftershow party kicking off straight afterwards through til 3am. Tickets are on sale now and cost £22.50 + booking fee from seetickets.com. Physical tickets from Esquires and Slide Record shop.

This really is one NOT TO MISS. Keep music live, Milky.

New Exhibition Opens at The Higgins Bedford: Going to Town – 200 Years of Bedford’s Art 10 July 2021 – 20 March 2022, Wixamtree Gallery, Free Entry

Going to Town – 200 Years of Bedford’s Art, a new exhibition celebrating artists views of Bedford and the surrounding area, opens at The Higgins Bedford on Saturday 10 July 2021.

The Higgins Bedford is displaying a number of watercolours, oils and prints from the past two centuries, some of which haven’t been seen by the public eye in several decades. The exhibition includes artworks by JMW Turner, Dora Carrington, Thomas Fisher and Stanley Orchart, highlighting their fascination of the town and River Great Ouse.

From Marianne Norman who painted St Paul’s Square from the window of her parents sweet shop over 100 years ago to Roberta Hart’s depiction of market day full of 1970s fashions, visitors are invited to take a walk into Bedford town through 200 years of artists’ eyes and see long forgotten buildings as well as familiar sights.

The Embankment and its picturesque views of The River Great Ouse is one of the highlights of Bedford, with artists over the centuries capturing the beauty of the river from Bromham to Cardington Lock in their work. Visiting artists such as JMW Turner and Thomas Hearne focused on views of the Town Bridge, whilst local artist, Emily Stannard, portrayed the quieter spots at the bridge in Newnham.

Councillor Doug McMurdo, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, said, “Over the years, Bedford has been more than fortunate to experience a high standard of art, through artists both local and visiting. This new exhibition celebrates some of the great things that make Bedford Borough the place it is today.

“Make sure that if you do decide to visit The Higgins Bedford, you follow all guidance on slowing the spread of COVID-19, including adhering to the ‘Hands, Face, Space and Fresh Air’ advice.”

The exhibition is free to visit and will run until 20 March 2022. A series of events and activities will accompany the exhibition later in the year.

Visit www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk for more information and updates.

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If you’re exploring the Wetlands Nature Reserve at Millennium Country Park on a warm, sunny day this summer, you’re likely to encounter some of the jewels of the insect world: dragonflies and damselflies.

These vivid insects come in an array of colours from brilliant reds to metallic blues and iridescent greens. It’s worth bringing along a pair of binoculars if you’d like to look at them closely as they’re prone to darting off if they sense nearby movement, so it is often better to view them from afar.

Dazzling dragons and damsels

a guide to these wetland wonders

So how do you tell the difference between the two? As a general rule, dragonflies are broader and stockier than their smaller, more delicate cousins. A dragonfly in flight brings to mind a harrier jumpjet – it is agile, strong and purposeful. Dragonflies have four independently mobile wings which give them a supreme manoeuvrability, enabling them to hover, as well as move swiftly upwards, downwards, forwards and backwards just like the famous aircraft.

Damselflies, on the other hand, have a much more gentle, fluttery flight, more akin to a butterfly than a fighter plane. While resting, damsels fold their wings neatly next to their bodies, while dragons’ wings are outstretched.

The dragonfly is an aggressive airborne predator.

Using its acute eyesight and efficient aerial skills, it hunts a variety of insects, capturing them mid-air. And despite their delicate appearance, damselflies are also voracious predators, snatching other insects by creating a ‘basket’ shape with their legs to scoop up their prey while in flight.

These hunting techniques have been perfected over millions of years – their ancestral line dates back to around 300 million years ago - before dinosaurs roamed the earth! Back then, they were much bigger than they are today, with a wingspan up to 30cm.

Although dragonflies and damselflies are best known as flying insects, they actually spend the majority of their lives underwater. The adult, flying stage of their lives usually only lasts for a few weeks, during which time their primary purpose is to mate and produce the next generation.

Dragons and damsels start their lives as tiny eggs, which are laid underwater, sometimes within plants, by the female. The larvae, or nymph, hatches after around a week and is a ferocious underwater predator, with an extendable hinged jaw which it uses to eat other aquatic insects.

As it grows, it sheds its skin several times, and when it is ready to change into an adult – usually after between six months and a few years depending on the species - it leaves the water, and crawls up a plant stem. The transformation that happens now is pretty astounding – the skin along the nymph’s body actually splits open and the new adult insect emerges from the old skin!

The wings at this stage are crumpled and soft so the insect pumps fluid into its veins to stretch them out. Over the next few days, the body will elongate and the wings will harden until the adult is ready to take flight. During this period of transformation, the emerging adult is at its most vulnerable to predators.

A keen observer may sometimes spot the empty skins of nymphs on plants around the water’s edge, and on a still, sunny day there’s an

excellent chance of seeing a dragonfly cruising along the water or a damsel fluttering among the bankside vegetation at the Wetlands Nature Reserve.

A total of 11 species of dragonfly and eight damselfly species have been recorded at the park in recent years.

A few to look out for are: • Brown hawker – Easily recognised, this large dragonfly has a slender brown body, with bright yellow stripes on the sides of the thorax and golden-brown wings.

• Emperor dragonfly – Britain’s largest dragonfly, this majestic species has a bright blue/green body and large eyes. You’ll most likely see this active hunter in flight as it rarely settles.

• Banded demoiselle – this stunning damselfly is often seen fluttering near to vegetation at the water’s edge. Males are a vivid metallic blue with a distinctive black band on their wings, while females are a vivid green.

• Common blue damselfly – a common species which can be seen in a variety of habitats, from open water to woodland. The males are bright blue with bands of black along the body, while females are a paler blue or green.

Don’t forget to let us know on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter if you see any dragons or damsels while you’re out exploring – we’d love to hear about your sightings! Just search for ‘Forest of Marston Vale’ to get in touch.

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You can now make appointments online!

Book an appointment with a vet or nurse via our website Visit our website or Facebook page. acornhousevets.com/online-appointments

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The Great Outdoors WILDLIFE IN THE UK – LITTLE OWLS PART 2 – THE OWLETS GREG COYNE, WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER

I recently heard about a couple of little owls that could be viewed from a hide quite local to me and detailed this in my last editorial. I had a fantastic session as the adult little owls flew back and forth to the hole in the oak tree where they were feeding young. How many young, I had no idea. In fact I really didn’t know how close they were to fledging and “branching” or exploring their home in this age old oak tree. I spoke to the farmer who gave me some rough dates when all the activity started so I took a guess and booked some future dates when I hoped that the owlets would be out and active. I returned on the 5th June as I had been informed that a baby owlet had been seen perched out side the nest hole and possibly one other had been seen up in the branches. I was filled with anticipation.

I had only been in the hide for 30 minutes when I saw a small face appear at the entrance to the hole. During my previous visits, the adult had been collecting food and taking it straight down the hole into the tree so this was exciting: My first sighting of a fluffy grey owlet. As the owlet moved a little further out of the hollow and on to a small ledge, I saw another face

appear at the entrance and move out into daylight. It was an amazing sight – two small fluffy bundles of feathers, large yellow eyes and a beak. It was amazing to see.

You can imagine, then how I felt when yet another face appeared and came out into the open. Three little owlets, all perched up on the branch ledge, maybe taking their first steps out into the big world that awaited them. They really are amazing to watch as their heads bob up and down: rotating first one way, then the other way, then backwards, bobbing all of the time. It’s really quite comical to see. I was taking photographs, but the owls were a little way apart and seemed to all be looking in different directions.

This is great to see but not ideal to photograph. Wouldn’t it just be the perfect shot if all three would play ball and face the same way, any way, just for a second so I could take a better image?

As a photographer you sometimes, very occasionally, have a day when just everything falls into place, when the gods must be looking down on you. A day that makes all of the bad days, standing in rain and hail, wet through, and coming away with no images, or poor

images all worth while. This was my day for things to fall into place. The owlets started to huddle closer together – maybe jostling to be in prime position for when mum returned to the ledge with some food. Then two stood side by side and number three stood behind and, in one amazing moment, all three owlets looked right at my camera lens. As I clicked the camera, I felt a real adrenaline rush, but at the same time thinking – please let it be in focus, please let it be exposed correctly. Please let me do justice to this amazing sight…

My luck was in and the image made my heart leap. I loved it and I hope you do too in this small selection of owlet images. I have been back since to try my luck again as, during that session, a fourth owlet appeared from the hole.

I did manage to get a shot of all four close together. It’s amazing to see what a great job the adults have done bringing up four owlets.

If you would like to see more images from my images simply log on to my Facebook page which is Greg Coyne Photography, where there are also video clips.

County Wildlife Site Status Extended for Priory Country Park Priory Country Park, a well-known and wellloved country park, has had its County Wildlife Site status extended.

County Wildlife Site status acknowledges a site’s importance for wildlife, and sites of this nature contribute significantly to the richness and biodiversity of the countryside.

Priory Country Park’s lakes and the stretch of the river that runs through it have had County Wildlife Site status for a number of years. Thanks to long-term careful management of the park, wildflowers have been encouraged to spread and flourish, creating a welcoming home for native wildlife.

VISIT

THE

This has seen the Site status extended to cover the whole park including the woods and the various meadows, which see an abundance of wildflowers in the summer.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said; “As a Country Park, Priory has long led the way in allowing our natural environment to flourish, with careful management, creating a haven for wildlife within walking distance of Bedford town centre.

“In recent times especially, I know we have all come to value our local parks even more as places to get some exercise, enjoy the fresh air and get into nature.

“We have been extending this approach of encouraging natural grass and wildflower meadows to other parks, to create spaces for nature to flourish alongside mown areas where people can walk and play through our ‘Bugs and Bees’ project.

“Congratulations to Priory Country Park on this extension to their County Wildlife Site status, recognising the importance of the work being done to encourage wildflowers and wildlife.”

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COMPLETE GUIDE TO COMPOSTING A generational eco trend that will replenish your garden whilst saving on bin waste.

If you are looking for a staple of eco living, venture no further than composting. This practice of letting scraps, waste and off-cuttings decompose away to produce a refreshingly dense, fertile, and wholly beneficial layer of goodness for your outdoor space predates almost all the green, recycling and energy conservation moves and initiatives we have now embedded into our everyday lives. And rightly so, since creating compost actually reduces the effort required in dealing with throwaway materials.

That said, to get your compost really producing the type of nutrient-rich humus that will bring lawns, beds and green areas flourishing back to life, there are a few useful tips you may want to pay attention to.

Carbon vs nitrogen Getting the balance between these two correct will ultimately define just how good your compost is.

Carbon matter includes branches, stems, wood, paper bags, coffee filters, eggshells, wood ash and more. It is this carbon layer that will give your compost space, lightness, and a fluffy consistency.

Nitrogen-heavy matter, on the other hand, includes food waste, manure, and kitchen waste, and provides a heavier, protein-rich presence.

For the best compost, you will want to look for one-third green versus two-thirds brown material – in other words, more carbon (the nice-smelling stuff) than nitrogen (the less-nice smelling stuff).

If you are uncertain of your ratios, the simple rule is to add more carbon.

A few don’ts Do not put meat, bones, or fish scraps in your compost. Not only will they smell, but they will also attract pests, and you will soon find yourself clearing up the remnants of foxes, cats, and other night roamers.

Obviously, it is smart to keep weeds or diseased plants away from your mix; while beware banana peels and orange rinds, as these may contain pesticide residues.

Straw law Many believe straw is the secret weapon where composting is concerned. It is a great way to ensure a good carbon/nitrogen balance, whilst adding oxygen space. You can also cut out some of the labour-heavy turning (see below) if you have a respectably high straw content.

Getting started When it comes to kicking off your composting revolution, find a space on bare earth so that worms and other organisms can access and aerate your compost, all the while transferring it into your beds.

Lay twigs or straw down, then begin to build your compost layer by layer, remembering your carbon and nitrogen mix, and ensuring plenty of gaps are left in between levels so that oxygen can work its magic.

Watering the compost can be a good idea and covering the top with a sheet will help it retain moisture and heat, as well as preventing it from becoming drenched by downpours of rain.

Aeration using a shovel, and a generous turn every week or so will keep the compost evolving and speeds up the process towards completion.

Is the air there?

The big requirement for composting is oxygen, and its ability to find a route through the kitchen and yard waste you are disposing of. In landfill, the organic matter is tightly packed and covered over, and the lack of air produces methane gas, which is harmful to the environment.

Always consider this when composting.

Temperature A healthy compost pile will reach extremely high temperatures – up to 150°F at the middle. You may even see the compost steaming away – this is a good sign and shows that your microscopic critters are doing their thing.

Spreading When you have accessed your compost, spread at thickness of up to one inch before adding a wood mulch layer to lock in all that nutrient-rich goodness. Your plants, lawns and produce will love the benefits and your garden will be a more beautiful and productive entity because of it.

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Bedford Town Football Bedford Town’s preseason fixtures are complete with the news that Nathan Jones will bring his Championship team Luton Town to the Eyrie on Wednesday 14 of July for an evening kick off, which is just four days after their Championship rivals Peterborough United come to Bedford on Saturday 10 July, as a part of their limited UK based preseason campaign.

Anglian Air Ambulance and Biggleswade’s who are the Teenage Cancer Trust.

The visits of the Hatters and the Posh are the icing on the cake of the Eagles exciting preseason schedule which also includes visits from National League South sides St Albans City and Wealdstone. On their travels Bedford also have some tough fixtures including promoted former rivals Peterborough Sports and Hitchin Town as well as St Ives Town and Stratford Town.

Bedford Town FC complete preseason schedule.

First up is a charity match on Tuesday 29 June against our groundshare partners, but league rivals Biggleswade FC. This will be an entry by donation charity fixture with all proceeds raised shared between the Eagles new charity partner East

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Club

All home preseason matches will be by prebooked online ticket available from: https:// bedfordtownfc.ktckts.com/ .

Tuesday 29th June – 7:45pm – Biggleswade FC – Home.

Saturday 3rd July – 3:00pm – Peterborough Sports – Away.

Tuesday 6th July – 7:45pm – Newport Pagnell Town – Away.

Saturday 10th July – 3:00pm – Peterborough Utd – Home.

Wednesday 14th July – TBC – Luton Town – Home.

Saturday 17th July – 3:00pm – St Ives Town – Away.

Tuesday 20th July – 7:45pm – Harborough Town – Home.

Saturday 24th July – 1:00pm – Wealdstone – Home.

Tuesday 27th July – 7:45pm – Potton United – Away Saturday 31st July – 3:00pm – St Albans City – Home.

Tuesday 3rd August – 7:30pm – Hitchin Town – Away.

Saturday 7th August – 3:00pm – Stratford Town – Away.

Bedford Blues re-launch Official Youtube Channel!

\

Bedford Blues are delighted to announce the re-launch of the club’s Youtube channel ahead of the upcoming 2021/22 Championship campaign.

The new home of all Bedford Blues video content, the Club has gone back through the archives and uploaded a host of memorable moments from the last ten years to remind yourselves about some of the key moments in its recent history.

There’s also some historic interviews with key past and present members of the #BluesFamily as they look to bring even more content to the club’s loyal and vociferous supporters in the 2021/22 Championship campaign.

You can check out our Official Youtube Channel here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeBlues.

New videos uploaded at least twice per week including re-signing interviews ahead of the new campaign, new faces arriving in the building and much more. Head to the club’s Youtube channel now or check out social media for all the latest news and updates.

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AUTISM BEDFORDSHIRE Independent charity dedicated to improving the lives of autistic people and their families across Bedfordshire..

Tel 01234 350704 www.autismbedfordshire.net BEDFORD BOROUGH LOCAL OFFER A place where parents and young people with Special Educational Needs and or disabilities can find clubs, activities and services to support them and their families Here you will find details of upcoming events, clubs and services available in the Borough of Bedford. www.localoffer.bedford.gov.uk

BEDFORD DAYCARE HOSPICE Provides individualised holistic care to patients suffering with a life-limiting condition from the point of diagnosis through treatment to remission or palliative care.

Tel 01234 352 015 www.bedforddaycarehospice.org.uk

BEDFORD WOMEN’S CENTRE Supporting women in the community who may have experienced Domestic Abuse or want more information about healthy relationships.

Tel 01234 316801 www.bedfordwomenscentre.org.uk

BOLD Supporting and advocating for people with a learning disability and challenging behaviours.

Tel 01234 352899 www.bo4ld.org.uk

CARERS IN BEDFORDSHIRE Local charity helping unpaid carers of all ages and backgrounds to cope with the stresses of their caring role.

Tel 0300 111 1919 www.carersinbeds.org.uk

CATS PROTECTION Tel 0345 260 2505 www.cats.org.uk/bedford

CHUMS

MINDBLMK

Mental health and emotional wellbeing service for children and young people

Supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.

01525 863924 www.chumscharity.org

COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE (CVS ) Support for voluntary and community sector organisations in Bedfordshire.

Tel 01234 354366 www.cvsbeds.org.uk

Tel 0300 330 0648 www.mind-blmk.org.uk

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS THERAPY CENTRE BEDS & NORTHANTS Provides help, support and therapy for those with MS in Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire.

Tel 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com

FACES (FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S EARLYHELP SERVICES)

OPEN DOOR Charity providing FREE and confidential counselling

local independent charity offering practical and emotional support to families under stress.

to young people aged 13 – 25.

01234 270601 www.facesbedford.org

Tel 01234 360388 www.bedfordopendoor.org.uk

FAMILIES FIRST BEDFORDSHIRE 01234 341977 www.familiesfirstbedfordshire.org.uk

FRIENDS FOR LIFE A local charity working to address the social isolation of residents in Bedford’s care homes Tel 07460 575410 www.friendsforlifebedford.org.uk

ROAD VICTIMS TRUST Offers a range of free support services to residents of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire who have been affected by fatal road collisions.

Tel 01234 843345 www.rvtrust.org.uk

SMILEY CLUB (PART OF BEDFORD MENCAP) Provides a fun social club for boys and girls from 9 to 18 who have learning disabilities.

Tel 07798 762 808

MEN AS VICTIMS Group support is provided for men who have experienced domestic abuse in a safe, therapeutic environment.

This service is for male victims living in Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire or Luton.

Tel 01234 341977 www.bedsdv.org.uk/get-help/men-as-victims/

MENCAP (BEDFORD) A voluntary organisation operating in Bedford and surrounding areas supporting individuals with a learning disability and their families.

Tel 07973 859940 www.bedfordmencap.org.uk

SUE RYDER ST JOHN’S HOSPICE A specialist palliative care and treatment centre providing hospice care for people facing a frightening, lifechanging diagnosis.

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The Will Writing Company Mayfair House 11 Lurke Street Bedford MK40 3HZ Tel: 01234 964911

Free Will & Testament The Will Writing Company is celebrating its 22nd Year in business and is offering a free Will & Testament (joint or single) to all readers. If you have been meaning to make a Will, now is your chance to take advantage of this exclusive offer and give you and your loved ones peace of mind. By making a Will, you decide who takes care of your children and who inherits your estate. Storage facility optional.

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