BedsLife Magazine December 2022

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and in less than a day from just £444! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our

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 tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.

Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford.

Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for

every installation we carry out!’

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9559 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

With Christmas rapidly approaching, we’re sure we’re not alone in keeping our fingers crossed and hoping for this year’s celebrations to be somewhat close to “normal”. In fact, we’ve just read some research that suggests that after two years of plans thwarted by Covid, and despite the rising cost of living, we’re all hoping for a welcome escape from everyday realities and are looking forward to celebrating together this year. Spending time with family is our number one priority, suggesting that big gatherings are back on the cards after a two-year hiatus.

We’ve also noticed that it looks like “business as usual” for the organisers of the numerous Christmas markets, school fairs, Santa’s grottos, pantos, and musical concerts in our region.

So, we are urging all our readers and customers to do two things this year……. Firstly, shop local as much as you can. Almost half of small business owners say that if everyone in their local community spent just £5 extra per week with small businesses it would help them to stay open in the long term. Secondly, look out for our elderly and most vulnerable neighbours, who can find it di cult to get out to the shops or to keep their house adequately heated during the colder months, and just check that they are OK.

However you celebrate the festive season, we wish joy and peace to all our readers from everyone here at Bedslife magazine.

council news

Wootton and Stewartby Schools Consultation Launched

Bedford Borough Council has launched a consultation on proposals to move to the two-tier primary/secondary model of education for schools in the Wootton and Stewartby areas.

The majority of Bedford Borough’s schools moved to a two-tier primary/secondary school system, from the previous three-tier lower/middle/upper school system, in 2015 to 2019. The two-tier system is the most common education system across England, where children attend a primary school from age four, and move to a secondary school at age eleven.

The proposals include Broadmead and Wootton Lower Schools becoming Primary Schools, Wootton Upper School becoming a Secondary School and Marston Vale Middle School closing. Central Bedfordshire Council is also consulting on schools in the Cranfield area, which is close to Wootton. Many children attending lower and middle schools in Cranfield currently progress to Wootton Upper School and some Bedford Borough children attend lower and middle schools in Central Bedfordshire. By working together across local authorities and schools, the Council hope to support the creation of a consistent two-tier system across both local authority areas.

The public consultation has now been launched. Schools have been sharing information about the consultation with parents and cares and you can read more about the proposed changes and to give your feedback by visiting www.bedford.gov.uk/woottonstewartby-schools

The consultation is open until Monday 12 December so you can submit your views at any time up to and including that date.

Last winter the council launched a campaign to raise awareness about idling vehicles.

Idling is when an engine is left running while the vehicle it belongs to remains stationary. It reduces air quality by releasing a variety of harmful gasses into the environment and is particularly prevalent during the colder seasons, especially around school pick up and drop o .

The Sustainable Transport team have been out visiting schools within the borough, talking to parents and putting up new signs to explain to people the dangers associated with idling, which can be up to twice as bad inside than outside a car.

The Sustainable Transport team launched a poster competition, which involved asking pupils to design posters to highlight idling. Winning designs from the schools who took part saw their designs enlarged and made into weather resistant boards, which can be displayed outside the school and be a reminder to parents.

News About To w n

Late night shopping and

parking for your sleigh!

Late Night Shopping is great reason to gather friends and family together to enjoy some preChristmas drinks and snacks. (After Hours, Coco’s and Slug & Lettuce are great for cocktails!) Help each other pick out perfect gifts in the Harpur Shopping Centre where you’ll find fun ideas for ‘Secret Santa’ and something great to gift everyone in the family, even those di cult teens!

Late Night Shopping begins on Thursday 15th December and from Monday 19th – Friday 23rd December until 8pm. Parking at the Harpur Centre stays open until 10pm Monday – Sat and until 8pm

on Sundays so you can enjoy the Vue Cinema opposite and the buzzy bars and restaurants in Riverside Square.

Follow your favourite independent shop’s Facebook and Instagram pages for their late-night opening hours. You can find listings for all the shops in the town centre and their social media handles on our website www.lovebedford.co.uk

Always check your favourite places to visit for their individual opening times which may vary.

Merry Christmas.

• Up to 2 hours every Saturday in all Councilowned town centre single and multi-storey car parks.

• All day every Sunday in Council-owned town centre car parks.

• Every day after 6pm in all Council-owned car parks except for River Street.

• FREE on street parking after 6pm, Monday –Saturday, except for Castle Lane which is after 11pm.

• First 2 hours parking FREE Monday to Saturday in Queen Street multi-storey car park.

• FREE parking on Sundays at the Harpur Centre

The following town centre car parks are open 24 hours 7 days a week.

• River Street multi-storey

• Lurke Street and Allhallows multi-storeys also o er free parking from 6pm – 6am.

Disabled parking:

Blue Badge Holders may park in Bedford Borough Council car parks free of charge and without any time limit. There is also parking available for disabled customers at the Harpur Shopping Centre.

Electric Bays:

There are charging points in the town centre car parks including Lurke Street, Allhallows, Duck Mill Lane, Greyfriars, Queen Street and River Street and there’s on street charging at De Parys Avenue. For more info about availability and charging speed visit: www.bedford.gov.uk

Click & Collect Parking Bay:

Click and Collect FREE parking is available on St Cuthberts Street opposite St Cuthbert’s Arcade for 15 minutes.

Taxi Companies:

If you’d like to enjoy a few bevvies or a festive cocktail or two, these numbers will come in handy! It’s a good idea to book for New Year’s Eve too!

The following firms were operated by persons licensed by Bedford Borough Council as at 31.06.19

24-7 Cars: 01234 511247

Al Cars: 01234 364444

AGS Cars: 01234 340900

A to B: 01234 212222

Anglia Cars: 01234 320032

Khan Cars: 01234 211177

Skyline Taxis Bedford: 01234 555555

About Town content is supplied by BedfordBID. For the latest updates on Bedford Town Centre activities and events, as well as a full Business Directory, please visit: www.lovebedford.co.uk

Shop happy all year with FREE parking!

WORDS FROM

Richard Fuller, MP for North East Bedfordshire

As we continued our recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, we have felt the economic impact of Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine which has placed considerable strains on European economies. Our country has also had to come to terms with the loss of our longest serving monarch, mourning her loss but thankful for the years of dedicated service to our nation.

We now look forward to the coronation of our new King as the country is steered by a new Prime Minister and the first of Indian heritage.

Throughout the year, I have endeavoured to meet with people across the sixty or so towns and villages I represent, to listen to concerns, debate ideas and get invaluable insights that help me speak up for local interests in Parliament.

I hope it’s no secret, but I absolutely thrive on face to face meetings with constituents. These regular “surgeries” are a unique characteristic of the UK Parliamentary tradition. These are

advertised on social media at www. .com/ RichardFullerBedfordshire and on my website at www.richardfuller.co.uk/surgeries

In addition to surgeries, I also have held several town hall style meetings so I can update people on my work in Parliament and really talk through local issues such as GP waiting times, school places, changes in our local environment. We discuss national issues too – openly and good naturedly even where we disagree strongly. Such an antidote to the hostility of social media. These town hall meetings are also advertised on my website and are open to anyone to come along without booking.

As another busy year winds down, I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

I hope to see you at one of my future surgeries or town hall meetings in 2023.

The approaching end of 2022 is a time to reflect on a challenging year for many countries across Europe, including the United Kingdom.

WORDS FROM

Christmas is a stressful and financially di cult time of year for many. As the cost-of living crisis deepens, this year will be particularly di cult as families, pensioners and low paid workers choose between heating or eating.

Families who struggle financially feel under pressure to buy expensive gifts and go on costly trips out. For many other people too, Christmas can be a time of great loneliness, particularly for those with no relatives or friends to share this special time with.

It’s not going to be easy to muster the usual Christmas joy with worries about how to a ord the usual presents or Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, but I hope we all can make the most out of this special season and see it as an opportunity to be generous and express love, whether you are religious or not, to connect with our communities. One of the greatest pleasures as an MP is to attend all the community events I possibly can. From charity events to religious services of all denominations, school visits, hospital visits, care home visits, and all manner of local events. I regularly help at foodbanks, go litter-picking and speaking with constituents on their doorsteps every week. I can tell you it’s the most fulfilling part of my job.

We already have a big voluntary community here in Bedford and Kempston. Charities themselves are concerned about the downturn in contributions as so many people can no longer spare the cash, but there are so many ways to help each other this year

whether it’s through donations or by giving your time. We all lead busy lives, with jobs and our own families to juggle so it can be di cult to see where helping others can possibly fit in. But just a simple act of kindness like writing a card to someone who may be on their own or plating up a dinner for a neighbour in need.

Donating money to charities and good causes is an obvious way to support. Foodbanks are currently in desperate need of donations, with more people than ever relying on these to feed their families.

Every year there are many local initiatives you can get involved in. All Nations Church, on Brickhill Drive in Bedford is again running it’s Christmas In A Box appeal which supports local people in crisis with food hampers. Faces in Bedford also has a Present Appeal for children who would not otherwise receive a gift. New, unwrapped toys and donations can be dropped at Church Lane Community Centre until 9 December. There will be many other initiatives at your local place of worship if you are in need or wish to donate.

During the pandemic lockdowns we were all reminded that the festive period was all about being with our loved ones. It’s going to be another tough Christmas for many. So don’t worry if there are fewer presents under the Christmas tree this year. The true Christmas spirit is about showing compassion and care for others and spending precious time with our families.

With Christmas just around the corner and the usual festive flurry, it’s a good time to consider how we all can make the most out of this special season.

Mohammad Yasin, MP for Bedford and Kempston

In the STIX

Sharnbrook Scout Group Needs YOU!

New Book on Undiscovered Victorian Architect

A Willington resident has launched a new book which will appeal to anyone interested in Bedfordshire’s history and its architects.

Sharnbrook Scouts are looking for Cub Scout Leaders and Cub & Beaver Scout Assistants to join their group. They would love to hear from people who would like to share their skills and inspire young people.

The group loves the outdoors and regularly enjoys activities including hiking, camping, running, lighting fires, singing songs, playing instruments, crafting, learning new skills, skipping, DIY, cooking, wide games, team building and earning badges.

If you could help with any of these pursuits or add new ones, please contact Keeley at keeley.daize@ gmail.com so that the group can continue to do what they love.

More information on roles in general can be found at www.scouts.org.uk

Gordon Vowles’s book traces the life of Henry Clutton (1819 -1893), concentrating on his buildings in Bedfordshire. As architect to the Duke of Bedford, he designed the parish churches of Woburn, Souldrop and Steppingley, and also restored St Lawrence church in Willington.

Clutton’s other work in Bedfordshire includes the fine country houses of Warden Abbey (Shuttleworth) and Sandy Lodge (RSPB) and various schools.

Gordon, former Deputy Director of Education, Beds County Council, said: “I am pleased that at the age of 91, I have brought to life this little-known Victorian Gothic architect so that this book can sit alongside publications on many other British architects of the period.”

Copies of Henry Clutton, Victorian architect of Gothic Revival Churches and Country Houses by Gordon Vowles, at £10 + £1.50 P & P, can be purchased from Willington Local History Group by emailing wlhg2022@gmail.com. All proceeds go to the Friends of St Lawrence for the upkeep of the fabric of the church building.

More Trees for Biddenham

The club, which opened its doors in November, provides somewhere warm and dry for friends to meet with games, arts and crafts, and snacks on offer.

For more information contact Wendy on 07780 448599 or wendymillgate@4ypuk.com

Rural Grants Awarded to Local Villages

Bedford Borough Council has announced plans to provide over £30,000 to communities in Harrold, Odell and Renhold through their Rural Grants scheme. The scheme enables rural organisations and Parish Councils to apply for funding to help them deliver projects that are of benefit to residents.

Biddenham Parish Council is working with the borough council and Trees for Streets again to add 25 more trees in Biddenham, following the 40 new trees planted last year. This year’s tree locations can be viewed at www.biddenham.org.uk

There is also an opportunity to sponsor your own trees through the Trees for Streets campaign. Each tree is £200 if you will water it yourself, or £300 with the borough council watering it. All locations must be on borough council land rather than private.

Trees for Streets is a new national sponsorship scheme which aims to make it easy for residents and organisations to donate to the planting and watering of trees in their neighbourhoods. The charitable project recognises the environmental and well-being benefits that street trees offer. www.sponsor.treesforstreets.org

New Youth Club in Great Denham

Great Denham Parish Council, in partnership with the Community Hall Charity, has launched a free youth club for young people in school year 8 and above.

Great Denham Youth Club takes place at the Community Hall in Saxon Way on Thursdays between 4 and 6pm during term time, giving young people an opportunity to socialise.

The largest grant of £25,000 will be awarded to All Saint’s Church in Renhold to help replace the church’s floor, making it more accessible for people with mobility issues.

Odell Parish Council will receive a grant of £3,085.42 to help divert two public footpaths, creating a safer and more pleasant route for those who use them.

A final grant of £3,000 will be awarded to Harrold Parish Council, to help repair the lych gate at St. Peter’s Church on Church Walk, making it safer and restoring it to its former glory.

Dave Hodgson, Mayor of Bedford Borough, said: “We’re delighted to be providing this funding to Renhold, Odell and Harrold and look forward to seeing the difference it makes. If you think your rural community could benefit from a grant, be sure to make an application to the fund.”

You can find out more and apply to the Rural Grant scheme at bedford.gov.uk

OPPORTUNITIES VOLUNTEERING

It’s time to get into the festive spirit and give you our volunteering pick for December 2022. It gives a flavour of the many opportunities we hold at CVS Bedfordshire from organisations across the area, so do contact us for more opportunities if you can’t see something that appeals to you.

Autism Bedfordshire Volunteer Support Workers –Loads of Autistic Fun

Volunteers provide 1:1 support for autistic children and young people at our LOAF (Loads of Autistic Fun) groups in Bedford, Biggleswade, Leighton Buzzard and Luton.

CPRE Bedfordshire Research and Admin Volunteer

As an Awards Volunteer you will provide vital assistance to the project and help us reach more people. Initially this will involve updating contact details of the previous entrants and researching organisations and projects that we can target for the 2023 awards.

Bedford Borough Council School Governor

School governors are skilled, motivated people who are committed to making an improvement in our schools. Every school in Bedford Borough has its own governing board which is made up of staff from the school, parents and members of the public

Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust Diabetes Education Volunteer

You can subscribe to our monthly newsletter at www.cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer-newsletter for all the latest opportunities and other volunteering related news.

Search for and register an interest in all the listed roles above and many more, by adding the name of the organisation into the keyword field on our Simply Connect opportunity search at cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer. Call us if you need any further information on 01234 354366.

Volunteers support patients with Type 2 Diabetes who are invited to our diabetes education sessions, which we currently deliver in English, Urdu and Bengali.

NSPCC School Services Volunteer

As a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer, you will visit primary schools to deliver Speak out. Stay safe. workshops that teach children about the different types of abuse and how they can speak out and stay safe.

Re-engage Tea Party Host

Tea parties provide a lifeline of friendship for our older people, and the regular, warm, friendly chats and companionship provide a vital link with the outside world from which they have become isolated.

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

The Martin Lewis column

MONEY ON MY MIND...

He’s the UK’s leading money saving expert –a journalist and presenter who has kept millions of pounds in people’s pockets as well as lifting the lid on the threats and dangers we need to be aware of as consumers.

In this month’s column, Martin Lewis looks at taking back control when creditors come calling.

I’ll come straight to the point this month – there is nothing more precious or valuable than our mental wellbeing, and there is no bill or invoice that should come before it.

I have worked with mental health charities and the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute to ensure people who find themselves in di cult situations are able to access not just financial assistance, but practical and emotional support too.

The truth is when people have existing mental health problems, the administration anxiety that comes with bills, debt demands and ongoing financial commitments, can be very di cult to handle, to the point that they’re simply unable to deal with what’s in front of them. Even when in a good place mentally and financially, so many of us find processing everyday matters exhausting, so imagine the added di culty when starting from a place of weakness.

Remember, we have the right to determine how we are approached and contacted by those we do business with. For some people receiving a text message informing them of something may represent a nightmare. For others, a text is the only way they wish to communicate; while some prefer to converse over the phone, or even face to face.

It’s essential we stand up and state our preferences, and organisations have to adhere to these. That won’t necessarily mean the problem will go away… if you are behind on a bill, for instance; but it will bring back control to you

and, from the outset, allow you to determine how you want to go about tackling a problem.

It was reported that 44% of people with mental health problems who fell behind on payments during the pandemic considered or attempted suicide; and if you macro that up to the UK population that would be two-and-a-half million people.

I’ll be honest and say I that when I heard that figure, I didn’t find it surprising; but it does surprise and disappoint me that people still don’t feel they have the tools to fight back and retake control.

From recovery space to payment holidays, to freezes on interest or repayment plans, speak to your creditors in a way that is firm and fair, and you will likely get the result you want.

Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySavingExpert. com. To join the 7.5 million people who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip

Sign up to have your Christmas tree recycled and support Sue Ryder

Sue Ryder is encouraging local residents to keep spreading the festive cheer into the New Year by signing up to have their Christmas trees collected and recycled to raise vital funds for families needing their care.

After the festivities are over, Sue Ryder volunteers will be collecting real Christmas trees direct from people’s front door or driveway so that they can be chipped into mulch and recycled.

For a donation, people who live in MK40, MK41, MK42 , MK43, MK44, MK45, PE19, SG18 and SG19 postcodes can have their trees collected between Saturday 7th and Tuesday 10th January 2023.

All money raised will help Sue Ryder to continue offering its compassionate palliative care and bereavement support – helping its teams be there when it matters.

To find out more about the environmentallyfriendly fundraising collection drive, Treecycle in and around Bedfordshire, and book a collection by Tuesday 3rd January 2023 visit sueryder.org/ bedfordshiretrees

Contact the fundraising team at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice with any queries on 01733 225 999 or email: stjohns.events@sueryder.org

Quality

CLUBS & GROUPS

OAKLEY RURAL DAY CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY

A fun filled day of activities, games and good old conversation. Day includes refreshments and a two-course lunch.

For details contact Lynne Tuesday to Thursday on 01234 824935 Or Mobile: 07733 227374. Oakleyruraldaycentre@Yahoo.Com www.Oakleyruraldaycentre.Weebly.Com The Old School, Lovell Road, Oakley Mk43 7RX

REVOLUTION TABLE TENNIS CLUB MONDAY EVENINGS

Juniors from ages 6-15 are welcome from 6.00pm7.15pm. Bats and balls provided. Social play for adults from 7.30pm-10pm. www.revolutionttc.co.uk/shop Lincroft Academy, High Street, Oakley, MK43 7RE

BROMHAM SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB

MONDAYS 2.00PM – 4.30PM

TUESDAY EVENINGS 7PM – 9.30PM

Bowls available and all abilities welcome. Training can be given for beginners. First two sessions free with a cup of tea/coffee, biscuits. Telephone Ron Chapman 01234 822755 or Sue Amor 01234 823610 for more information or just come along.

Bromham Village Hall, Village Rd, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8JP

CARERS TOGETHER

2ND AND 4TH TUESDAYS OF THE MONTH AT 2.30PM

A group in Sharnbrook offering support for Carers and Activities for the person you care for. Meet with other Carers for tea, cake and a chat. Contact Linda Hoar 07791214148. Methodist Church, Park Lane. Sharnbrook

TUDOR REEDS FOLK DANCE CLUB

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY 8PM

Lively fun night. £2 incl refreshments. No partner needed. Tuition given. Contact Jenny 01234 217621

St Marks Church Hall, Calder Rise, Brickhill, Bedford MK41 7UY

BEDFORD COUNTRY AND FOLK DANCE CLUB

THURSDAYS 8.15PM TO 10.15PM No partner required. £3 For more info call Ron Law 01234 825574

St Marys Church Hall, Church Lane, Goldington, Bedford MK41 0HL

CARERS SOCIAL GROUP

FIRST THURSDAY EVERY MONTH –10AM TO 12PM

Friendly group where you and the person you care for can meet others in similar circumstances over a cuppa. There is no need to register and there is no charge – just turn up!

Carers in Bedfordshire Office, Emerald Court, Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford MK41 7PZ

GOLDEN FRIENDSHIP CLUB – OVER 50’S THURSDAYS – 2PM TO 4PM, ENTRY £1

Refreshments, raffle, bingo, games, crafts and more. Occasional meals and outings. For information call Marion on 01234 304382

Christ the King Parish Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP

BEDFORD FOLK & ACOUSTIC CLUB

EVERY THURSDAY 8:30PM – 11PM

Acoustic and folk music round-the-room. Musicians, singers and poets all welcome, at every level. Find us on Facebook or come along. The Pavilion at Kempston Hammers Club MK42 7BN

COMMUNITY DROP-IN SESSIONS

FIRST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH 10AM – 12PM

You will be able to access free support and information, or you can just pop in for a chat with one of our attending organisations including Sight Concern (From October), BPHA, MIND, Big Local, TIBS Dementia and Direction For Bedfordshire. Christ the King Church Hall. Harrowden Rd, Bedford, MK42 0SP.

CARERS SATURDAY SOCIAL GROUP

FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH –10AM TO 12PM

Do you look after someone who can’t cope without your support? This could be a parent, child, partner or other family member or friend, with any condition. Join this friendly group where you and the person you care for can meet others in similar circumstances over tea and cake. Only £2 entry.

Priory Methodist Church, 63 Newnham Avenue, Bedford, MK41 9QJ

Home Care & Domestic Services

We are a friendly and local home provider that deliver’s high quality and affordable care to clients at home. Our mission is to ensure that we provide a bespoke service that meets the exacting needs of our clients.

What makes A Class Care unique?

We are an award nominated and local care agency that puts the needs of our clients first. We are not a commercial organisation where the client’s needs are lost in a hierarchical structure, we are a company that genuinely cares for each and every one of our clients. We deliver highly rated training to our carers that always starts with “We treat our clients as if they were our own parents”.

We have a “Good” Care Quality Commissioners rating with Outstanding features as we are continuously recognised for providing dignity, respect, and highly caring service to all our clients. We hold a high referral rate with 9/10 of clients stating that they will refer us to friends and family.

A committed organisation that genuinely wants to make a big difference to the lives of the people we care for.

We provide care to clients who are elderly, who has Dementia, Parkinson’s, mobility issues and Alzheimer’s. We have built key links to the community so we can help clients access services such as occupational therapy, hearing aids, Dementia Nurses and Nutritionists.

Contact us today to find out more

Tel - 01234 924536

A Class Care (Offices based in Brickhill Bedford) www.aclasscare.co.uk email – info@aclasscare.co.uk

NORTH BEDFORD CHURCHES TOGETHER CHRISTMAS SERVICES

HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CHURCH, GOLDINGTON ROAD, BEDFORD MK41 0DP

Christmas Eve

5:00pm Advent and Christmas Carols

5:30pm Family Mass

Christmas Day 9:00am Holy Mass

SAINTS PHILIP & JAMES CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2 SEVERN WAY, BEDFORD MK41 7BX

Christmas Eve

7:30pm Advent and Christmas Carols 8:00pm Holy Mass (with incense)

Christmas Day 11:00am Holy Mass (with incense)

PRIORY METHODIST CHURCH, NEWNHAM AVENUE, BEDFORD MK41 9QJ

Sunday 18th December 10:30 am All-age Nativity Service

Christmas Eve

3:00 pm Christingle Service

Christmas Day 10:30 am All-age Celebration

ST MARY’S C OF E CHURCH, CHURCH LANE, GOLDINGTON MK41 0AP

Sunday 11th December

9:30 am Holy Communion 4:00 pm Family Christingle Service

Sunday 18th December

9:30 am Holy Communion 6:00 pm A Service of Readings and Carols

Christmas Eve

4:00 pm Family Nativity Service 11:00 pm Midnight Mass

Christmas Day 9:30 am Christmas Communion

PUTNOE HEIGHTS METHODIST CHURCH, BEDFORD MK41 8EB

Sunday 11th December

3.30-5pm “Light and Hope” – Church open for quiet individual prayer and contemplation, lighting of candles with background Christmas music.

Sunday 18th December

6.00 pm Carols by Candlelight

Christmas Eve 5.15 pm Holy Communion Service

RENHOLD C of E CHURCH, CHURCH END, RENHOLD MK41 0WR

Saturday 17th December

2:00 pm Family Carols & Candles

Sunday 18th December

3:00 pm Blue Christmas

Wednesday 21st December 7:00 pm Lessons and Carols

Christmas Eve 4:00 pm Family Crib Service 11:00 pm Midnight Mass

Christmas Day 11:00 am Christmas Morning Communion

WHAT’S ON

ST PAUL’S CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

WEDNESDAY 30 NOVEMBER – SUNDAY 4

DECEMBER

Over 60 trees decorated with the theme of ‘Musicals’

Wed-Sat 10-5, Sunday 12-4. £3.00. Free under 16 years

Saturday 3rd Christingle service @ 4 pm Daily community concerts & competitions

Festival concert-Woburn Piano Trio: Friday 2nd December 7.30 pm

Tickets £17.50 from www.peoplesfundraising.com/ concert-tickets and 01234 783181

In aid of St Paul’s church and Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends

Further details: Bedford Christmas Tree Festival E: treefestival@stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk Tel: 01234 340163

St Paul’s church, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SQ

27TH SHARNBROOK CHRISTMAS FAYRE

FRIDAY 2 DECEMBER 4 – 8PM

Christmas Tree & Festoon Lights switch-on, Awardwinning Community Choir, Marquee Charity/ Community Stalls, Santa’s Grotto, Hemlock Morris Dancers, Shops open late, Refreshments, Mulled wine & Roast chestnuts. Children’s fairground ride. Village Green, High Street, Sharnbrook

CHRISTMAS CAROLS & LITTLE DONKEYS AT MEGC

SATURDAY 3 DECEMBER 11.30AM

Get into the Christmas spirit with us on Saturday 3rd December when the Early Risers Local Choir will make their yearly visit to us for a lunchtime of seasonal songs. The little donkeys Teddy and Storm will be here to meet the whole family too while Ice Cream Joe will be providing the warming chocolate brownies and wa es.

Held alongside our Co ee Shop the music begins at 11.30am and will continue throughout the lunchtime period.

Radwell Road, Milton Ernest, Bedford MK44 1SH

ST JOHN’S AND ST LEONARD’S, BEDFORD

COME AND JOIN US CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS!

Christingle: Sunday 4th December at St Leonard’s at 3.00pm

Carol Service: Sunday 18th December at St John’s at 6.30pm

Midnight Communion: Saturday 24th December at St John’s at 11.30pm

Christmas Day Service: Sunday 25th December at St Leonard’s at 10.30am

Please see our website for more information –stjohnsandstleonards.org.uk

ST. PETER’S CHURCH SHARNBROOK

SUNDAY 4 DECEMBER 3PM

A Concert of Advent & Christmas Music by the Ouse Valley Singers. Tickets £7 (Incl. wine & mince pies) from: Colin Scott 781559 or Janet Welsh 781010 Proceeds to the ‘Children’s Society’

SOULDROP CHRISTMAS FAYRE

SUNDAY 4 DECEMBER 3PM – 5PM

Come and enjoy mulled wine & mince pies Festive stalls and games – tombola and Father Christmas will be in attendance! £1.00 entrance

Knotting & Souldrop Village Hall, High St. Souldrop MK44 1EY

A MERRY LITTLE CRANFIELD CHRISTMAS MARKET

SUNDAY 4 DECEMBER 10AM – 3PM

Soak up the festive atmosphere and sounds of Christmas with hand-selected stalls of local small businesses and community, listen to Christmas carols, visit Santa and enjoy a glass of hot mulled wine while you get ahead on your Christmas shopping.

Outside Fil’s Hairstop & House to Haven, 130 High Street, Cranfield MK43 0BS

BEDFORD FLORAL ART SOCIETY MEETING

TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER 7.30PM

Floral demonstration by Alison Su olk entitled ‘Christmas Sparkle’ Visitors welcome £7 www.bedfordfloralartsociety.co.uk Addison Centre, Kempston MK42 8PN

BDCPS CHRISTMAS FAIR

THURSDAY 8 DECEMBER 10AM – 1PM

Arts & Crafts, Gorgeous Handmade Gifts, Toys, Mince Pies and Festive Drinks

Kempston Cutler Hammer Sports and Social Club, 134 High St, Kempston MK42 7BN

CHRISTMAS AT BROMHAM MILL

SATURDAY 10 DECEMBER – CHRISTMAS FEST

Take a wander with your little ones through our magical woodland nativity, shop a range of handmade gifts, meet the reindeers, settle into our Christmas grotto, enjoy a pint of craft beer, tuck into a bratwurst sausage and indulge in a cup of speciality co ee, hot chocolate, mulled wine and sweet treat at The Mill Co ee Shop

Sunday 18th December – Carol Singing Gather around the Christmas tree with your hymn sheet and sing along with us and a live orchestra before enjoying festive food and beverages

Saturday 24th December – Christmas Eve Party Celebrate with us this Christmas Eve as we switch on our festoon lighting, light our fire pits and invite you to join us in our open-air bar for festive food, beverages and live music

Bromham Mill Café, 17 Bridge End, Bedford MK43 8LP

ST MARY’S CHURCH BLETSOE WEST GALLERY QUIRE

SATURDAY 12 DECEMBER 7PM

Candlelit choir with seasonal songs anecdotes and refreshments. Tickets £10 Info: Andrew 07765 151950

St Mary’s Church Bletsoe MK44 1QD

BEDFORD LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY [BAALHS]

WEDNESDAY 14 DECEMBER 7.30PM

Sale of 2nd hand history books (cash only) & Local History Quiz (Bedford in the 1950s & 1960s). Guests £3. Tel. 01234 313608

Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford, MK41 8EB

BEDFORD LOCAL GROUP OF THE WILDLIFE TRUST

WEDNESDAY 14 DECEMBER 7-15PM FOR 7.30PM

‘Journey to the Jaguar’ An illustrated talk by our own Marion Hession

All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated.

Plenty of parking available. Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or 01234 266057

Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9Q

BEDFORD RSPB LOCAL GROUP THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 7.30PM AIMING TO FINISH BY 9.30PM

David Wilding – head warden at RSPB Otmoor. The RSPB have spent over 24 years turning Otmoor nature reserve back into an amazing natural wetland. It’s a very special oasis that feeds, shelters and sustains threatened lapwings, snipe and curlews. Tonight, David will explain much more about a reserve that many of us enjoy visiting. ‘Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential.

Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 under 18s enter free. Reg.Charity No. 207076, more info www.rspb.org. uk/groups/bedford or call 07905199769

MARSTON VALE FOREST CHRISTMAS ACTIVITY TRAIL MONDAY 19 DECEMBER –FRIDAY 23 DECEMBER

Santa has hit a cloud on his journey and a few presents got lost in the sensory garden! Help find the 10 missing presents and get them back to Santa before Christmas Eve! Spot them all and complete the trail sheet to tell us where you saw them and win a prize. £3 per child (age 1+). Price includes trail sheet and a small prize per child

Tickets www.marstonvale.org/Pages/Events/

Saturday 3rd December

Shop Local –Small Business Saturday

Love Bedford invites you to come into town and discover the wonderful shops and services we have to offer. It’s Small Business Saturday – a celebration of our unique independent shops. But not forgetting every town centre business is important; so please help to keep our town centre vibrant by shopping local.

Come in early and pick up a Love Bedford at Christmas Goodie Bag, which includes a £5 Love Bedford Gift Voucher to spend in over 270 participating town centre businesses, keep-it-safe purse bells and festive treats. There will be a fabulous floral installation adorning the Silver Faces, perfect for festive selfies and live music performances to enjoy in Harpur Square. Bring your friends and enjoy a wonderful day spent Christmas shopping together!

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th December

Love Bedford Express Train

Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th December

Enjoy a fun-filled day Christmas shopping at Bedford Market’s biggest Christmas event, supported by Made In Bedford and take a ride on The Love Bedford Express land train departing from Silver Square Station! There’ll be free amusement rides for the kids and festive live music performances too – and to add even more festive cheer, Christmas refreshments will be served from the Harpur Suite and Dessert Boss will be serving Love Bedford hot chocolate drinks with whipped cream for £1 to keep you lovely and warm.

Love Bedford – Have Fun!

The Christmas holidays are here at last! Love Bedford invites parents, grandparents and anyone with little ones to visit the Town Centre over the weekend for some festive fun and… it’s all FREE!! There will be professional face painting, mesmerising balloon artistry and fun fairground rides for the little ones. A great opportunity for making family memories and enjoying time together in Bedford Town Centre. To round off a great day, why not book ahead to visit Santa in the Harpur Centre Grotto and celebrate with a commemorative photo!

What’s on

November

26th November

Santa arrives at his Grotto Harpur Centre 10am – 5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 3pm on Sunday until 24th December www.harpurcentre.co.uk

28th November

Festive Afternoon Tea at Anna’s Bedford Swan Hotel £22 per adult £8 per child (under 12) £27.50 with Mulled wine £29.50 with Prosecco (Every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day) https://bedfordswanhotel.co.uk

30th November ‘Musicals Themed’ Christmas Tree Festival St Paul’s Church £3.00 Under 16s FREE 30th – 3rd December | 10am – 5pm Sunday 4th December | 10am – 4pm www.stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk

December

1st December Thank You For The Music Abba Tribute – Waterloo Duo 3 St Peters | 7.30pm – 11.30pm £12.50 / members £7.50 https://3stpeters.com

2nd December

Christmas Tree Festival Concert The Woburn Piano Trio St Paul’s Church | 7.30pm Tickets: £17.50 www.peoplesfundraising.com/concerttickets

3rd December

Love Bedford Shop Local –Small Business Saturday Pick up Love Bedford goodie bags with £5 Love Bedford voucher to spend in town centre businesses and enjoy live music entertainment in Harpur Square. 10am – 3pm www.lovebedford.co.uk/christmas.php

4th December Moldova Crown Ballet Sleeping Beauty at 2pm The Nutcracker at 7.30pm The Bedford Corn Exchange Tickets £24 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

8th December

Christmas Jumper Day! Wear your Christmas jumper to work and raise funds for charity www.savethechildren.org.uk

9th December

The Greatest Magician

The Quarry Theatre | 7.30pm | 13+ £20 Concessions £18 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk

10th December

Festive Afternoon Tea

3 St Peters | 12.30pm – 4.30pm | £29

With Prosecco £34 Champagne £37 https://3stpeters.com

10th and 11th December

Love Bedford Express Land Train Land Train from 10am – 5pm and enjoy Christmas shopping at Bedford’s biggest Christmas market supported by Made In Bedford and enjoy free amusements and entertainment in Harpur Square. www.lovebedford.co.uk/christmas.php

11th December

Five Star Swing at Christmas Sing-a-long with the swing band show

The Quarry Theatre | 3pm Adults £20 Concessions £18 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk

11th December

The Snowman with Live Music By Hitchin Band 3.45pm and 5.15pm Tickets £10, Under 16 £5, Adult’s lap – free www.hitchinband.yapsody.com/

12th December

Christmas Memories 2022 Neil Sands spirit lifting, festive nostalgia hit show.

The Bedford Corn Exchange | 2pm | £14 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

14th December

Top Gun Maverick

3 St Peters | 7pm – 11pm £12.00 / members £10.50 www.cinema3stpeters.com/whats-on

15th December

Late Night Shopping until 8pm The Harpur Centre www.harpurcentre.co.uk

15th December

Castle Comedy Club Christmas Special Traditional Christmas Special with all the comedy trimmings!

The Quarry Theatre | 8pm | £16 | 16+ www.castlecomedy.co.uk

17th December

Comedy Club 4 Kids Christmas Cracker! 2pm | £10 adults / concessions £8 / Under 15s £6.50 The Quarry Theatre www.quarrytheatre.org.uk

17th and 18th December

Love Bedford, Have Fun! From 10am – 3pm Visit the town centre for FREE festive fun! There will be balloon artistry, face painting and fairground rounds for youngsters – we can’t wait!

18th December World Cup Final Qatar 2022 – who will be crowned champions of the world? Watch at Brewhouse and Kitchen www.brewhouseandkitchen.com

19th December Harpur Centre Late Night Shopping until 8pm from 19th – 23rd December www.harpurcentre.co.uk

22nd December

Beauty & the Beast Pantomime A fabulous professional pantomime for the whole family with audience participation throughout! He’s behind you!!! 22nd – 31st December Adults £19 Concessions £17.50 Children £16 Family Ticket £59.00 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

For more details and regular updates of what’s happening in Bedford town centre vist www.lovebedford.co.uk

Christmas Services and Concerts

St Paul’s Church

St Paul’s Square

Sunday 27th November 5.30pm Advent Carol Service

Saturday 3rd December 4pm Christingle Service

Saturday 17th December 4pm Festival of Lessons and Carols

Christmas Eve 4pm Family Crib Service 11pm Midnight Mass Christmas Day 10.15am All age Festival Eucharist

Please check www.stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk for updates

Bunyan Meeting

Mill Street

Saturday 3rd December 7.30pm Handel’s Messiah

Sunday 18th December 11.00am Nativity for All Ages 6.30pm Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

Wednesday 21st December 1.30pm Community Carols Service

Christmas Day Saturday 25th December 10.00am Christmas Morning Service

News Year’s Day 1st January 2023 11.00am Morning service and communion

Please check www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk for updates

St Peter de Merton Church De Parys Avenue

Sunday 18th Dec 10.15am Nativity Service (Fancy dress welcome)

Thursday 22nd Dec 7.00pm Carol Service

Saturday 24th Dec 11.30pm

Did you know?

You can watch church services from the comfort of your home via YouTube. Simply search St Paul’s Church Bedford or Bunyan Meeting to see their channels and subscribe so you don’t miss future services. You can also join in church services via Zoom at St Peter’s. Contact stpetersbedford@googlemail.com to request a link.

Midnight Communion

Sunday 25th Dec 10.15am Christmas Day Service with communion

Please check https://stpeterdemerton.org for updates

Winter offers

Foxy Wings

3b Merchant Place, Riverside Square MK40 1AS

Christmas season is nearly upon us - bring your family, friends, and office pals down to Foxy Wings for the ultimate laid back Christmas gathering.

We are bringing our most-loved menu items with some festive flourishes especially for you! The bar will be slinging out some Christmassy cocktails, we will have flagons of our craft beer and bottles of bubbly and wine to help you celebrate.

If you’re looking for a fun, unique space to host your Christmas do - Foxy Wings is the place for you!

Our festive feast menu is £25 per person and you can add a glass of Prosecco or a Pomegranate Bellini for £5 if you mention Bedslife magazine. (Available on bookings made on Monday to Thursday)

Book in at www.foxywings.co.uk/christmasatfoxy

Eco-Friendly Gi s at e Store

St Cuthbert’s Arcade 26 St Cuthberts Street, MK40 3JG www.thestoreuk.co.uk

Reuse, Reduce, Refill! Looking for a more sustainable or plastic free Secret Santa gift this year? The Store’s Brownie Mix Jars contain all the dry ingredients you’ll need to whip up a delicious batch of scrummy brownies. Choose with or without walnuts and just add butter and eggs. It’s the perfect gift for under a tenner that even the most amateur of bakers can enjoy with a jar that can be reused or refilled at The Store again and again!

Normally priced £8.50, mention BedsLife at the till to get yours for £7.50.

The Wishing Tree

at e Harpur Shopping Centre

Christmas is a time to come together to care for one and all. If you’d like to help underprivileged children in Bedfordshire, a lovely way to make a difference is to buy a present and pop it under the Harpur Centre Wishing Tree. This wonderful campaign happens every year in collaboration with Heart Radio.

So, while you’re choosing presents for your friends and family, why not add an extra gift to your basket to make a child’s day extra special? All the gifts collected will be distributed by organisations that support underprivileged children and families in Bedfordshire and will be delivered in time for Christmas Day.

So, how does it work?

1. Head to the Wishing Tree in the Harpur Centre, Bedford.

2. Choose a ‘Boy’ or ‘Girl’ tag.

3. Have fun selecting an appropriate gift from the Harpur Centre’s stores.

4. Attach the tag to the unwrapped gift.

5. Drop the gift back at the tree.

6. To give the elves time to wrap up! The tree will close on the 18th December.

7. Thank you for making a child’s day special.

Christmas Free Prize Draw

Fancy winning £100 of Love Bedford Vouchers?

To be in with the chance to splash out in over 270 participating town centre businesses all you have to do is answer two simple questions!

Where would you spend £100 Love Bedford vouchers? What type of businesses would you like to see more of in the town centre?

Scan the QR code to visit our competition page and be in with a chance of winning. Good luck!

Whilst you’re there, please consider subscribing to the Love Bedford newsletter. It isn’t a requirement to enter the competition, but it’s a great way to find out about the fantastic events that happen in the town centre all year round and latest news including new business arrivals.

You can also enter by post: BedsLife Free Prize Draw, BedfordBID, Suite 8, Marks Mews, 37 Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3NT – Please include your name, email address and postcode.

Entries should be submitted by Monday 19th December 2022. The winner will be announced on Monday 9th January 2023

Thank you and good luck!

Love Bedford Gift Vouchers

e perfect gi that everyone will love!

Our hugely popular Love Bedford vouchers are now available to order online in denominations of £5, £10 and £20 vouchers! Perfect for teacher’s gifts, Secret Santa, staff Christmas gifts and especially friends and family who are tricky to buy for!

Visit www.lovebedford.co.uk/town-centregift-vouchers/# to buy yours for delivery by post and discover some of the 270 different businesses they can be spent in.

Or next time you’re in town, pop into Gallone’s Ice Cream Parlour in The Arcade and Michael R Peters on The Broadway where you can buy them in person with cash or card.

To help with your Christmas shopping list, here’s some great ideas for town centre businesses that accept Love Bedford Vouchers:

Teens – Geek Retreat, Caution Vintage, Dreamwear, All Ears, Rewind Retro Arcade Mum – Anorak and Boutique Planet, John Medhurst

Dad – Harrison & Simmonds, The Arc, Beerfly, Jeeves, Slide Records

Kids – Waterstones, The Works, TK Maxx, Onyx Dawn Games

Nana – The Body Shop, Arcadia, Charisma, Arlo Arts

Pet lovers – Bedford Cat Café, WH Smiths Grandad – The Flying Cork, Eagle Bookshop and Gallery

ROYAL GURKHA

There are some restaurants that you want to keep returning to time and time again, the Royal Gurkha is that for me. Based on the corner of Tavistock Street, the original building was built during the reign of King George IV.

Inside the restaurant is contemporary and highlights the character features. You are immediately greeted by the fantastic smell of spices wafting from the kitchen which will set your appetite on fire.

The menu focuses on Nepalese food with influences from Indian and Indo-Chinese cuisine. Starters should be compulsory here, I love the Momo, Nepalese dumplings, and the Veg Manchurian for something spicy. The portions are great, the mixed grill was enough to feed the whole table! Make sure to save plenty of room for the main course, the Signature dishes are not to be missed. The show stopper has to be the Dum Ki Nalli – caramelised slow cooked while lamb shank in a rich spiced sauce.

The service is second to none, the sta are attentive and the owner is often on hand too to ensure you have a fun evening. You can also enjoy from the comfort of your own home, takeaway is available.

This Christmas at Life Health and Wellbeing studio

Christmas Gift Workshop – Learn and make your own Christmas gift product for someone special from bath milk, body oil, bath salts, body scrub or face serum.

Christmas Gift Boxes – Take your pick at the wide range of gift boxes or give a more personal touch and create your own. Not to forget little stocking filler.

Gift Vouchers – Give a little treat with a gift voucher this year from my Holistic massage treatment range, with Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Deep Tissue, Indian head and much more.

Life Health and Wellbeing Studio aims to bring a happy balance to life with a range of Holistic massage treatments, Mindfulness workshops, Meditation, Healing life guidance therapies and Retreats.

Call by Life Health and Wellbeing Studio at The Barn Cople Road Cardington mk443sh and explore my Get Earthed Healing Gift Shop were you will find a wide range of natural products for the body, face, bath and shower with aroma oils, essential scented candles and natural soaps. Not to mention a lovely mix of yoga mats, meditation cushions, throws, blankets and yaka wool shawls.

Take a look at my web page for more information or contact me with any enquires www.life-healthandwellbeing.com nicki@lifehealthandwellbeing.com

CLEANERS WANTED

MILKYS MUSIC MATTERS

STEVE MASON

Sat 7th December – Esquires, 7.30pm

’About the Light’ as well as a vast back catalogue from his former bands to draw from, this should be a special show from an artist that usually plays bigger venues than Esquires.

Tickets priced £20 are on sale from Seetickets or can be bought in person from Slide Record Store or from Esquires Bar.

SPEAR OF DESTINY

Fri 9th December –Esquires, 7.30pm

Fresh from a UK tour which saw a sell-out show at the 100 Club and a packed-out arena at Rebellion in Blackpool Kirk and co are back with a new album ‘Ghost Population’ to coincide with the dates.

Mason started his music career as the lead singer and one of the founding members of The Beta Band. According to Q magazine, after leaving the band Mason was so deep in debt at one point that he was forced to take a second job on a building site. Apart from the genre breaking Beta Band, he has also fronted King Biscuit Time and Black A air and now concentrates on his majorly successful solo career. He undertakes his first tour in over a year after a 2021 run of ‘low key village hall dates’ and this, his first proper towns and cities tour since 2019 has been met with much excitement. With 4 classic albums including ‘Boys Outside’ ‘Monkey Minds in the Devil’s Time’ ,’Meet The Humans’ &

Spear Of Destiny first appeared on the scene back in 1983 fronted by Kirk Brandon after the break-up of his previous band, Theatre Of Hate. Their debut album ‘Grapes of Wrath’ from 1983 featured the anthemic single ‘The Wheel’. 1984’s follow-up LP ‘One Eyed Jacks’ featured the classic singles ‘Prisoner of Love’ and ‘Liberator’ which are live favourites to this day. 1985’s ‘World Service’ cemented the band’s reputation and was swiftly followed by 1987’s ‘Outland’ album featuring the top 20 single ‘Never Take Me Alive’. Spear of Destiny have always been known for their dynamic live shows and show no sign of slowing down.

Expect to hear some new tracks alongside the classics from the vast back catalogue. Tickets are on sale now from from Seetickets priced £20 or available in person from Esquires Bar and Slide Record Shop

SUPPORT THE BEDFORD LIVE SCENE UPCOMING GIGS FOR YOUR DIARY

ESQUIRES

Fri 2nd Dec Big Country

Sat 3rd Dec UK Subs + Special Duties

+ The Tendons

Wed 7th Dec Steve Mason (ex-Beta Band

Thur 8th Dec Cam Cole

Fri 9th Dec Spear of Destiny

Sat 10th Dec Henry & the Bleeders

+ Surfin WomBatz

Thur 15th Dec The Chameleons + The Membranes

Fri 16th Dec The Ramonas

Fri 16th Dec Room 2 – Elijah Miller + Hutch Wed 28th Dec The Dekkertones + Dr Ska

+ many more, check listings at bedfordesquires.com for details or facebook.com/bedfordesquires

Tickets available from Esquires, Slide Record Shop and online at seetickets.com

THE CHAMELEONS + MEMBRANES –

Thur 15th November – Esquires

ChameleonsVox, although Lever later left that group and died in 2017. Burgess and Smithies reformed the Chameleons in 2021 with two members of Burgess’ ChameleonsVox group.

Known for their atmospheric, guitar-based sound, the Chameleons are regarded as one of the most underrated Manchester bands of the 1980s.[3] [4] They did not attain the commercial success of other groups from the Manchester scene but developed a cult following. Special guest support comes from The Membranes featuring acclaimed journalist John Robb.

The Chameleons are back for a “What Does Anything Mean? Basically” 35th Anniversary Tour and head to Bedford once again with original members Mark Burgess and Reg Smithies. The band released their debut album, Script of the Bridge, in 1983. They followed it with What Does Anything Mean? Basically and Strange Times in 1985 and 1986, respectively, before abruptly disbanding in 1987 due to the sudden death of the band’s manager. After the split, Burgess and Lever formed The Sun and The Moon, while Fielding and Smithies formed the Reegs. Burgess also had a short solo career with backing band the Sons of God.

The Chameleons reformed in 2000, releasing their fourth studio album Why Call It Anything (2001) as well as the acoustic albums Strip (2000) and This Never Ending Now (2002). Renewed tensions caused the group to separate again in 2003. Burgess and Lever continued to play Chameleons songs live with their new project

COMING UP, COMING UP

Catch them before they move to bigger venues Francis of Delirium, The Rills, Sprints Lucky to see them still in smaller venue –Steve Mason, Big Country Legends – Spear of Destiny, The Chameleons New Age Nomad Rock – Cam Cole Punk – UK Subs Locals – Henry & the Bleeders, Elijah Miller

Keep music live, Milky

STAYING CALM at Christmas!

Christmas can be a very exciting time in the home.

It is nice to be able to include pets in our festivities, but remember that for many pets, changes in routine can be unsettling.

A safe haven

It is very important for dogs and cats to be able to take themselves away from busy, noisy environments. Providing a safe haven in a peaceful place that the pet can always access is very helpful. Cats will prefer a covered hiding place in an elevated location (perhaps an igloostyle bed on top of a wardrobe or shelf) so that they can feel safe while watching what is going on beneath them. For dogs, a crate covered with a blanket and with the door removed (so that they are free to come and go as they please) is best. Drop treats into these places when your pet is not there, so that they find them when they return and build a positive association with the safe place. Do not let family members reach into the safe haven or otherwise coax pets out of there.

Routines

Wherever possible, it is important to stick to normal routines around feeding, sleeping and exercise. This will make your pet feel secure. It can also be important for avoiding medical problems that can occur from sudden changes in feeding, for example.

Keep dangers away from cats and dogs

Many Christmassy things (lights, trees, parcel ribbon, chocolate, raisins) can be dangerous for cats and dogs if they are chewed or ingested. It can be stressful for pets (and owners) to be constantly approaching these forbidden items and only to be told told off or pushed away. Put dangerous objects out of reach (use baby gates, height, locked boxes as appropriate).

Noise fears and fireworks

Ensure that noise-sensitive pets are out of the room if crackers are going to be pulled. Keep pets indoors on New Years Eve and speak to your vet about anti-anxiety medicines for dogs that are known to have firework fears.

Gardening Tips and Advice from

THE POTTING SHED OF THE GENTLEMAN GARDENER

Hello everyone, welcome back to my potting shed. Come in and make yourself comfortable; there’s always room for you .

Wow, December already and still quite warm. Last month, the warmest place in the UK was Newquay with an average temperature of 11ºC, 45ºF in old money.

Here’s my list of jobs for you to do in December: half prune your roses, ventilate plants in frames, prune out your vines and ‘earth up’ your spring cabbages. If you have bulbs in pots, bring them into your greenhouse or a sheltered spot in your garden and control any big bug mites on your blackberries.

At this time of year, it’s a good idea to look at your garden with a fresh eye and see if there’s anything you want to change or if you would like to introduce a new feature.

There’s not much work to do with your fruits at this time of year. If you haven’t finished pruning, promise me you’ll press on with it - set a deadline before Christmas.

As long as the weather stays open (frost free) and soil conditions are good, tree and shrub planting can continue.

If you’ve got leeks (I love leek soup), lift them from their growing positions in case we get some severe weather. ‘Heel’ them in close together, in the shelter of a wall if possible, until they head into the kitchen.

Thank you very much for your company this year. I hope you’ve found your visits helpful.

I hope you have a safe, enjoyable Christmas and a bloomin’ good 2023.

My kindest regards The Gentleman Gardener

ADVERTISER INDEX

Accountants

Abbott’s O ce Services Ltd 25

Artificial Grass

Prestige Lawns 63

Builders

Paul Nicholls Building & Landscaping 57

Care Homes

RCH Care Homes Limited 51

Care Provider

A Class Care 23 Right at Home 19

Carpets & Flooring

A & A Carpets 9

Charities

Bedford Daycare Hospice 48 Chimney Sweep

The Black Horse Chimney Sweep 50

Chiropodists and Podiatrists

Saxon Footcare 49

Christmas Trees

Stagsden Christmas Trees 44

Cleaning Services

CitrusClean 51

OvenClean Bedford 69

Clock & Watch Repairs & Sales

Bedford Clocks 68

Clothing

Lodgeway Countrywear 18

Clothing Alterations

The Zipyard 17

Coffee Shops

No.7 Co ee House 21

Computer Repair/Maintenance/Sales

Oakley IT 47

Curtains & Blinds

Emperor Blinds 68

Domestic Appliance Repairs

JB Domestic Ltd 56

Drain Experts

Drain Doctor 65 Electrician

Craddock Electrical Services Ltd 56 M Halls Electrical 60

Farm Shops

BRCC Services Ltd - The Barn @ Cardington 27 Browns of Stagsden 26 Woburn Country Foods 43

Food & Drink

BRCC Services Ltd - Ridgemont Station 27

Funeral Services

Abbotts funerals 70 Neville Funeral Service 25

Garage Doors

Almond Garage Doors 68

Garolla Holdings Ltd 61

Gardening Services/Supplies

Bryan Johnson Landscapes 68 MJ Nicholson 68

TPI garden Services 63

Guttering Services

MK Guttering 64

Gymnastic Clubs

Falcon SA Gymnastics Club 47

Hair & Beauty

Deborah Hair 69

Enhance 49

Health & Fitness

Life Health & Wellbeing Studio 49 Norman Gray 69

Home Improvements

HomeFix ( Home Counties ) Ltd 11

Kitchen Doors

Dream Doors 11

Laundry & Ironing Services

Bubbles Laundrette 51

Locksmiths

A Rocket 61 Steadfast Locksmiths Limited 68

Loft Ladders

Access4lofts 65

Home Counties Loft Ladders LTD 2

Painting & Decorating

Bromham Painting & Decorating 50

Craig Johnson 61

Plasterer

CM Plastering 60

Craig Johnson 61

Plumbing, Heating & Boiler Services

BHC Heating & Plumbing 55

BHC Heating & Plumbing 60

CM Plumbing 54

The Bedford Plumbers 57

TR Donnelly 68

Property Maintenance

Mr Fix Property Maintenance 56

Pubs

The Cross Keys 15

Restaurants

The Sun Felmersham 45

Roofing

New Life Roofing 64

Security Systems

Akita Group Limited 65

Skip Hire

Paul Riches 57

Soft Furnishings

International Soft Furnishings Ltd 5

Theatres

The Harpur Trust - Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s 32

Tree Surgeons

Eden Tree Specialists 64 Quercus Tree Specialists 63

Upholstery

M & S Upholstery 68

Used Car Buyers

Paul Jones Cars 69

Veterinary Practice

Acorn House Veterinary Hospital 58

Will Writing

RWA St Neots Ltd 25

The Will Writing Company 71

Window Repairs & Glazing

Cloudy 2 Clear 72

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Bromham Windows 56

Kempston Windows 54

Nu-Look Conservatory Roof Solutions 55

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. To take advantage of this offer and book an appointment or for further information please call n the above number between the hours

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