BedsLife Magazine - February 2023

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!

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After the New Year celebrations and settling back into a routine, February has always felt to us like an opportunity to pause for a while and draw breath. Yes, it’s cold and wet, and the days are still too short and dark. But it’s no coincidence that this month is named for the Latin word februum which means purification.

There’s a sense of optimism in the air, that Spring is just around the corner, everything will get brighter and warmer, and we can embrace life again feeling refreshed and reinvigorated.

Of course this month also means Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, Half Term, Pancake Day, and Random Acts of Kindness Day (on the 17th). But we’ve also recently discovered that the Saxon term for the month, Sol-monath, means “cake month”. This is because the Saxons o ered cakes to the gods during this month – finally an excuse to eat more cake!

If previous years are anything to go by, February will disappear in the blink of an eye. So whatever this month has in store for you, we send you our warmest wishes. Until

council news

Host a Street Party to Celebrate the Coronation

Bedford Borough Council has announced a grant of £45,000 to Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity to deliver support to residents over the winter.The grant will help residents who are struggling with the cost of living, energy bills and keeping warm. The Charity will support residents who are at risk of missing out on the services, activities and support they are entitled to.

This year the UK will mark the Coronation of King Charles III with a three-day bank holiday weekend from Saturday 6 May to Monday 8 May 2023.

To help residents celebrate the Coronation, Bedford Borough Council is waiving the usual administration fee for street party road closures. Street parties are a great opportunity for communities to come together, usually organised by groups of residents who get together and make arrangements to celebrate with their neighbours, friends and families.

For anyone wishing to hold a street party over the extended bank holiday weekend, the Council asks that applications are submitted by 1 April 2023. Residents can email road.closures@bedford.gov.uk to request a street closure.

To find out more about applying for road closures to celebrate the coronation in Bedford Borough visit www.bedford.gov.uk/coronation

For guidance including tips, ideas, advice and support on organising a street party, you can visit www.gov.uk

The waiving of street party fees applies to residents of residential streets only, it does not apply to traders seeking to close high streets.

from Bedford Borough Council, Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity will be able to provide the much-needed extra resources to support and help local people who are currently struggling with spiralling living costs, record-breaking energy bills and keeping warm.” You can find out more about various forms of help for residents across Bedford Borough struggling to cope with the rising cost of living at www.bedford.gov.uk/benefits-andsupport/grants-and-funding/help-cost-living

Bedford Borough Council has welcomed a government scheme to provide a ordable bus travel to residents with a £2 bus fare cap in the new year.

The Department for Transport (DfT) led scheme, which encourages people to ‘get around for £2’, will run from 1 January – 31 March 2023 and will see all adult single fares capped at £2 and all return fares capped at £4 on bus services operated by participating companies. In Bedford Borough, the following operators have signed up for the scheme: • Stagecoach • Uno

More information about the government bus fare cap scheme is available on the government website (www.gov.uk/government/news/millionsencouraged-to-get-around-for-2-by-bus) or by visiting bus providers’ websites.

Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity receives £45,000 from Bedford Borough Council

Getting around Bedford Borough by bus gets cheaper in 2023

News About To w Love Is All Around

Love is everywhere. It’s in the small acts of kindness, the big life changing proposals, it’s in the music we listen to, the food that’s lovingly prepared for us and our special relationships with friends and family. Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity for Love Bedford to share some things we know you’ll love to do in the heart of Bedford.

Love to relax:

Tuck into bagels and co ee at Vanilla Tree on a Sunday morning. This bright yellow beacon of co eeshop-loveliness is on St Cuthbert Street. Homemade bagels cooked in the traditional way are stu ed with scrambled eggs and smoked salmon or try the iconic American salt beef bagel with mustard mayo and gherkins. The ‘House of Co ee’ freshly roasted co ee complements the bagels to perfection and the buzzy, relaxed vibe inside makes this an ideal spot for a daytime first date. www.vanillatreebedford.co.uk

Love to discover somewhere new:

The Cellar Bar is the latest addition to Bedford’s nighttime scene. Located on the High Street opposite the Silver Faces, you can walk the red carpet and discover the home of live music, cool DJs, premium beers and delicious cocktails. This underground, authentic cellar bar is full of original features and cosy nooks – it’s the perfect place to sit and get to know someone new! Plus, if you’re an act, an artist, band or DJ, The Cellar Bar would love to hear from you. www.thecellarbarbedford.co.uk

Love your nails:

Pure Nails is amongst the best professional nail salons in Bedford o ering manicures, pretty pedicures and nail extensions at very competitive prices. This February,

ladies, why not carve yourself some me-time. You can’t do anything for an hour whilst someone is carefully filing and painting your nails to perfection. Love the experience of doing absolutely nothing. www.purenailsspa.co.uk

Love to get lost in a movie:

Did you ever long to watch a movie and missed it because no one else wanted to go? Don’t wait for someone else, watch a film by yourself! Set up your own date night and then make it a regular thing. Treat yourself to the £7.99 reclining seats and a bucket of warm popcorn – because you’re worth it! Vue Cinema is showing romantic classic Sleepless in Seattle or for something with a bit of va-va voom Channing Tatum and Salma Hayek star in Magic Mike’s Last Dance. www.myvue.com

Love to find a new partner:

Calling all the single ladies and gents. Here’s a fun and original way to meet someone new. Don’t Get Locked In Escape Rooms have organized a singleton’s night on Thursday 2nd February. You can book a single ticket online and they’ll arrange people into teams on the night. On Thursday March 2nd they’re hosting an LGBTQ+ event as part of their monthly Escape Mates evenings – we love how ‘DGLI’ are bringing people together from all walks of life to find love and friendship. www.dontgetlockedin.com

Love to get married in Bedford:

The Bedford Swan Hotel was awarded the winner’s prize in last year’s “Muddy Stilettos Awards”. Their next Wedding Open Evening takes place on February 16th from 6pm to 8pm. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet leading exhibitors from the local area and beyond to discuss your wedding plans and ideas in a relaxed atmosphere and see the hotel dressed up for the wedding of your dreams.

www.bedfordswanhotel.co.uk

Love diamonds:

Baker Brothers Diamonds have been specialising in diamonds since 1839. They are more than happy to spend quality time with customers

explaining how diamonds are graded for cut, colour, clarity and carat and all their diamonds adhere to the highest ethical standards. The latest trend for rings is to feature spectacular colourful precious stones such as tanzanite and tourmaline. This 18ct white gold, pear cut 2.15ct tanzanite mounted in 18ct yellow gold and complemented on either side with dazzling pear cut diamonds is £3,950.00. (0% finance available) www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.co.uk

Love to snuggle up:

Sitting on the sofa together and listening to music on a record player is one of life’s simple pleasures. Slide Record Shop in The Arcade could have a copy of your partner’s favourite album growing up, the soundtrack to the first dance at your wedding or perhaps the re-release of a favourite artist that brings you both joy. Available from 10th February, Whitney and Whitney Houston albums are being re-reissued (£27 each) with iconic tracks such as Saving All My Love For You, Greatest Love of All and Love Will Save The Day. Staying in is still the new going out! www.sliderecordshop.com

WINNER OF THE LOVE BEDFORD

Christmas Competition was Hattie Webster. She wins £100 Love Bedford Vouchers – congratulations Hattie!

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

RICHARD FULLER Words from

MP for North East Bedfordshire

The Prime Minister went further and outlined a vision that will change the way the country works by building a more innovative economy that invests in science and technology, seizing Brexit opportunities and backing business to deliver a growing economy with better-paid jobs.

At the start of the year, the Prime Minister set out his commitment to deliver results on five key problems facing the country right now.

These are:

1) To halve inflation 2) To grow the economy 3) To reduce debt 4) To cut NHS waiting lists 5) To stop small boats

Halving inflation this year will ease the cost of living and give people financial security; growing the economy will create better-paid jobs and opportunity across the country; getting our national debt down will help secure the future of public services; cutting NHS waiting lists will enable people to get the care they need more quickly; and legislating to stop the illegal migrant boats will demonstrate control over our borders.

The Prime Minister added that those five promises are not the limit of the government’s ambitions but will provide a clear demonstration of his abilities to deliver results.

The Prime Minister was clear that improving education is the closest thing there is to a silver bullet and that every child should have access to the best education. He will make numeracy a central objective and will work with the education sector to move towards all children studying some form of maths to the age of 18, helping the next generation to compete with their peers across the world.

The Prime Minister aims to deliver an NHS where patients are much more in control, giving patients access to more information, more power and using more independent capacity.

The Prime Minister stressed the central role of families in our society and the role that government play to strengthen families to meet challenges.

Like all national leaders in Europe, the Prime Minister is tackling the consequences of the Covid Pandemic and Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. He has been clear about how he should be judged for his delivery of results this year and given us an outline of his broader vision with families at its centre. He has my support and, I hope that of you and your family.

Bedford Hospital along with its partners in the BLMK Trust and ambulance services are experiencing an extreme level of pressure with record numbers of people using services.

Emergency services at the region’s hospitals - like the rest of the country have seen a surge in the numbers of people with Group A STREP, Covid and flu symptoms, with Bedford being a particular Covid hotspot in recent months. Though case rates are by no means at the levels seen at the peak of the pandemic.

The NHS is trying to cope with this level of demand with a depleted and burnt-out workforce. Desperate times call for desperate measures. Which is no doubt why it was reported recently that Bedfordshire patients could find themselves being treated in ‘field hospitals.’

Although the Trust has said the use of ‘field hospitals’ was not imminent, the fact that it’s being discussed at all is concerning.

The latest CQC inspection report on Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in December found

MOHAMMAD YASIN Words from

MP for Bedford and Kempston

an overall rating of ‘good’ which is testimony to the hard work of staff and hospital leaders.

However, the Trust was found to require improvement around safety – particularly in relation to Urgent and Emergency Care, Medicine and Maternity Services.

Much of the concern related to waiting times, and staff not having completed training in line with the levels required by their role.Workforce shortages are at the heart of these problems. If staff aren’t able to take the time to complete training or are spread too thinly to do their jobs properly, it’s inevitable that the service they are able to give will not be as it should.

The most pressing issue in Bedford is the serious delays in funding for capital expenditure which is now threatening the delivery of several key projects, including our primary care estates programme. Bedford and Kempston are severely underserved in terms of square footage. Inadequate GP settings are making it even more difficult to retain and recruit GPs to an area already short of doctors.

Plans and £60m funding are in place for a new mental health facility at Bedford Health village with specialist places for children, and refurbished wards at Luton, along with an improved clinical offer across inpatient and community mental health services. But the East London NHS Foundation Trust are still waiting to hear if their expression of Interest in the Government’s New Hospitals Programme, announced a year and a half ago, has been successful.

Odell Bridleway Bridge Closed

In the STIX

jacket potatoes and warming soups to keep out the winter chill. Their usual selection of delicious cakes can also be enjoyed with a hot drink, along with a range of baguettes, baps or sausage rolls.

Bedford Borough Council has been forced to close the foot/bridleway outside the mill in Odell for safety reasons. Following an inspection, the bridge has been found to be unsafe for public use. It is currently unclear who owns the bridge. The bridge will remain closed until the owner has been identified and repairs have been made.

Councillor Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said, “I appreciate the frustration closing this connection will cause but we must put public safety first.”

The bridge carries users from Mill Lane towards the western tip of Felmersham ward along bridleway eight.

New Winter Menu at Emmaus

The popular café at Emmaus Village Carlton, em’s Bistro, has launched a new menu with cooked breakfasts, tasty

Em’s Bistro is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 10am-4pm with all proceeds supporting the work of Emmaus Village Carlton. Extend your visit by browsing the Home Store, Bric a Brac and Boutique shops where you will find quality second hand bargains. Every penny spent at Emmaus goes back into the charity which works to end homelessness.

Find a Warm Space Near You

A Warm Spaces Network has been launched with over 40 locations across Bedford Borough o ering a warm welcome, free hot drinks and activities for people of all ages without any cost.

Locally, warm spaces can be found at Bromham Baptist Church on Mondays 9-5pm, The Fellowship Centre in Clapham on Tuesdays 1-4pm, Great Denham Community Hall on Thursdays 10-12pm, St Peter’s Church in Sharnbrook on Wednesdays 9-6pm, The Giddy Goat Co ee Shop in Riseley on Mondays 10-12pm and Stevington Church from Monday to Saturday at various times. Bedford Library can also be used as a warm space during its opening hours.

Cllr Louise Jackson, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing, said, “We are grateful to all volunteers for their enthusiastic and positive commitment, which is helping so many of our residents. As a Council, we are committed to keep everyone warm and well this winter.”

For an up-to-date list of warm spaces and contact details, visit www.bedford.gov.uk

An Update on Bromham Mill

Following a public exhibition and consultation period, Bromham Parish Council has now submitted a planning application for the regeneration of Bromham Mill.

The plans include the provision of a gallery and museum, well-being centre and small retail units at the site with The Mill Coffee Shop relocating to the listed front barn. The application also includes improved vehicle and pedestrian movement throughout the site and additional parking spaces. A number of amendments were made to the plans as a result of the exhibition feedback, including the provision of electric charging spaces, improved cycle storage and an enhanced play park. The aim is to transform Bromham Mill into an exciting community facility and visitor attraction.

Get Around for £2

Bedford Borough Council has welcomed a government scheme to provide affordable bus travel to residents with a £2 bus fare cap in the new year.

The Department for Transport (DfT) led scheme, which encourages people to ‘get around for £2’, runs from 1 January to 31 March 2023 with all adult single fares capped at £2 and all return fares capped at £4 on bus services operated by participating companies.

In Bedford Borough, Stagecoach and Uno have signed up for the scheme. The Stagecoach Bedford to Kettering service runs through Clapham, Oakley, Radwell, Felmersham, Milton Ernest and Sharnbrook.

Councillor Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: “Swapping car journeys for bus trips helps to reduce the number of cars in our town and city centres, reducing congestion, cutting emissions and improving the environment. With these discounted fares, I would encourage residents to give it a go and get around for £2 this winter.”

For bus routes and timetables visit www.bedford.gov.uk

Post Office Services in Blunham

The Post Office is trialling Drop & Collect, a lighter format Post Office branch, in Blunham Supermarket.

Blunham Supermarket, which is located on the High Street, will be offering limited Post Office services from a handheld device giving customers access to prepaid parcel collections and returns along with bill payments.

A wider range of Post Office services will remain available from the nearby branches at Great Barford and Sandy. The latest branch information can be found at www.postoffice.co.uk

Email jacqui@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Copy deadline for the March issue is 10 February

OPPORTUNITIES VOLUNTEERING

Here are our top picks for February 2023, 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.

Moggerhanger Park – Garden volunteers

Garden volunteers required to restore the estate gardens back to their full glory, built in the eighteenth century the gardens and grounds which were designed by noted landscape designer Humphry Repton, are a nationally important historic landscape.

Wimpole Estate – National Trust –Ecology Volunteer

The Ranger team at Wimpole are looking for ecology volunteers to help with breeding bird, wintering bird and butterfly surveys. Some previous knowledge or experience is desirable.

Bedford Players Trust – The Place Theatre – General Front of House Volunteers

By volunteering your Front of House skills – whether at the Box Office, behind the bar, ticketing or ushering – you will become part of a team of theatre-loving people of all ages keen to make the audience experience at The Place as welcoming off-stage as it is exciting on-stage.

Ampthill Festival CIC – Photo and Video Creative Volunteers

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.

Social media marketing activities are brought alive with photos and videos from past events. If you’ve got the editing kit on your Mac or PC and have some time and creativity available, then Ampthill Festival would love to hear from you.

Food ETC CIC Cookery Workshop Facilitator

If you like cooking and would like to help other people make healthy, nutritious, and cheap meals we’d love to hear from you. Food etc is looking for volunteers to work with a variety of groups in and around Bedford.

Age UK Bedfordshire – Telephone Befriender

Volunteers will develop through planned, regular telephone conversations a small number of positive and valued relationships with isolated older people who have been identified by Age UK Bedfordshire, with the final aim of reducing social isolation of those older people.

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

FOURMONTHS RENTFREE!

A new way to retire

Renting in retirement? Now there’s an idea

Now is the time to give yourself the all important freedom and flexibility in retirement and live life your way at Elderswell. Make the most of all of our facilities on your doorstep. And now Elderswell offers a choice of homes to rent as well as buy. It’s the new way to retire.

If you’d like to find out more about our rental options, call us on 01234 814 518 or visit www.elderswell.co.uk

We are Youth TV, a local community project based in Bedford that aims to inspire ambitious young people into the media industry. The project is led by an extraordinary team of passionate volunteers from all across Bedfordshire, with the help of Groundwork East. Groundwork East supports young people in the recording of our programmes, and their youth team provide guidance for our content. Our project is currently run by young people between the ages of 14 – 18 from across Bedfordshire, however, we have also had many fantastic opportunities to interact with many successful young people through interviews and other events.

At Youth TV, we have a variety of programmes for our viewers. However, our main programme is ‘The Show’, presented by our very own CEO and Founder Urban Judge, alongside our Vice CEO Michelle Papworth. All of our volunteers get the opportunity to meet monthly to record this show and get involved – whether it be in recording, presenting, content or behind-the-scenes!

Are you or your child interested in gaining experience in what it’s like to work in the media industry? Do you have a passion for creative media? Are you between the ages of 13-18? Great news, we are looking for creative young people to join our team here at Youth TV! You do not require any qualifications, just a keen interest in the media industry is needed and, as we edge closer to our 3-year anniversary, there’s no better time to join us! Just visit our website at www.youthtv.co.uk to get involved, or ask any questions you may have about the life of a volunteer at Youth TV by emailing us –hello@youthtv.co.uk.

Not interested in volunteering, but are keen to know what we get up to? Subscribe to our YouTube channel @YouthTVUK to watch our latest episodes.

TURNING THE PAGE

For February, four books that will weave a fictional spell.

The Angel Maker

by Alex North

Haunted by the violent attack of her brother Chris years ago, Katie Shaw sees threats everywhere. When her brother disappears, Katie leaps into action to help him once more.

Meanwhile, Detective Laurence Page’s investigation of a brutal murder of a professor leads her to suspect the case is connected to Chris’s attack... and to a serial killer said to be able to predict the future.

Published by Celadon Books on February 28th

Someone Else’s Shoes

by Jojo Moyes

Globetrotting Nisha Cantor has the perfect life money can buy until her husband divorces her and cuts her off. Scrambling to hold on to her previous lifestyle, Nisha’s distress hits a peak when even her gym bag is stolen.

Meanwhile, Sam Kemp is desperately trying to keep her family afloat. When she tries on a pair of expensive shoes from a gym bag she took by accident, the jolt of confidence inspires her to change her life.

This is a story of mix-ups, mess-ups and making the most of second chances

Published by Michael Joseph on February 2nd

The Porcelain Moon

by Janie Chang

At the end of the First World War, Pauline Deng runs away from her Chinese family in Paris to escape an arranged marriage back in Shanghai. In the French countryside, Pauline finds shelter with Camille, a French woman planning to escape her own abusive marriage, until Pauline finds out a terrible secret about Camille, forcing them to make a decision that will bind them together forever.

Published by William Morrow on February 23rd

The Worst Woman in London: A Victorian Romance

by Julia Bennet

A defiant Victorian wife fights to escape a bad marriage but her love for a forbidden man jeopardises her chance at freedom. James Standish knows how to play society’s game. He’ll follow the rules, marry a virginal debutante, and inherit a massive fortune. At least, that’s the plan until he meets Francesca Thorne. She’s not the sort of woman a respectable gentleman like James could ever marry… not least because, strictly speaking, she’s married already.

Francesca is determined to flout convention and divorce her philandering husband. When James sweet talks his way into her life tasked with convincing her to abandon her dream of freedom, she’s unprepared for the passion that flares between them. James and Francesca must choose whether to keep chasing the lives they’ve always wanted or take a chance on a new and forbidden love.

Published by Entangled on February 2nd

PIZZERIA SANTANIELLO

Let’s talk about one of Bedford’s oldest and most loved restaurants, somewhere I’ve been going since I was little. Santaniello’s is a Bedford institution, having first opened it’s doors in 1980 and has been serving up authentic Italian pizza ever since.

Sometimes, things not changing can be a bad thing, but not here. It’s always been the same as long as I can remember, from the red painted windows, to the check tablecloths and the warm welcome. It is a place you can visit again and again, and still want to come back for more!

The menu is simple, with a great choice of delicious pizzas, plus there’s a delicious selection of calzone and specialty dishes cooked in the traditional clay oven. We always start our meal with the olives and breadsticks, swiftly followed by the main course and the salad.

The desserts are fantastic too, the profiteroles are huge and drenched in chocolate. I couldn’t resist the homemade Bisco cheesecake on my last visit, and it did not disappoint!

Santaniello’s has been providing the people of Bedford with delicious pizzas for 40 years, across 3 generations. Long may it continue!

CLUBS & GROUPS

OAKLEY RURAL DAY CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY

A fun filled day of activities, games and 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. 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

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

SECOND MONDAY EVERY MONTH – 2PM-4PM

Do you look after someone who can’t cope without your support? Join Carers in Bedfordshire’s friendly group where you can meet others in similar circumstances over a cuppa. There is no need to register and there is no charge – just turn up!

The Bedford Suite, Wixams Retirement Village, Bedford Road, Wixams, Bedfordshire MK42 6EA

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

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

HOLY CROSS WARM SPACE

TUESDAY 1.30PM – 4.00PM

Refreshments, books, puzzles and a space to chat with friends old and new.

Holy Cross Church, 355 Goldington Road, Bedford. MK41 0DP

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

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

Free support and information, 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.

DEMENTIA ALL SORTS GROUP

THIRD WEDNESDAY EVERY MONTH – 10.30AM12PM

Join this social group for people living with dementia and their carers. Incorporating reminiscence activities, games, speakers, singing and general discussion. There is no charge. Call 0300 111 9090 for further information. Carers in Bedfordshire Office, Emerald Court, Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford MK41 7PZ

WHAT’S ON

BEDFORD ART SOCIETY MEETING FRIDAY 3 FEBRUARY 7.15 FOR 7.30 START

Anneka Slatter (Annie) A demonstration of Calligraphy. Annie is a calligrapher and letter artist and will be sharing her knowledge and love for this beautiful craft.

Entry free for members, £5 for visitors. Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB Contact Jean Paterson on 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for further information.

Bedford choirs as they work together, perform and learn new songs. The choirs include: Alive and Singing, Bedford Choral Society, Rock Choir, Cantamus , Carers Choir, Come and Sing, First Tuesdays, Fusion Choir, Opus 18, Sharnbrook Community Choir, Unisong, and lots of Secondary Schools

Sing Praises: Sunday 12 February 6pm St Andrew’s Church 6 pm Kimbolton Road, Bedford MK40 2PF

The choirs of St Andrew’s Church and St Paul’s Church will sing this centuries’ old service of evensong together.

BEDFORD LOCAL

GROUP

OF THE WILDLIFE TRUST WEDNESDAY 8 FEBRUARY 7.15PM FOR 7.30PM

Lichens: A Symbiotic Fungi for two. An Introduction.

An illustrated talk by Brian Simms ‘Plenty of parking available, All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated.

Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or 01234 266057

CANTAMUS CHAMBER CHOIR TUESDAYS LUNCH TIME RECITALS: 1.00 PM.

FREE with retiring collection in aid of church funds. Suggest min £5.00

Monthly Saturday organ recitals 12 noon, also FREE with retiring collection in aid of church funds

Sat 11 12 noon Organ, Martyn Noble (HM Chapel Royal, St James’ Palace)

Tues 7 1.00pm, Maria Kustas, (piano)

Tues 21 ‘Flutes and Frets’ – Beth Stone and Danny Murphy (flutes, lutes and theorbo).

Tues 28 Xindi Zhu (piano

Tues 25 ‘Solstice’, Vocal Duo

St Paul’s Church, St Pauls Square, Bedford MK40

1SQ

SING TOGETHER

SATURDAY 11 FEBRUARY WORKSHOP 3PM

– FOLLOWED BY PUBLIC CONCERT 7.30PM –ADMISSION £5

St Paul’s Church, St Pauls Square, Bedford MK40

1SQ

Inspirational choir-leader Greg Link (Apollo 5) is going to lead over two hundred singers from

Monday 13 February, Choir Concert St Paul’s Church 7.30 pm (tickets on the door)

Bedford Choral Society and Youth Choir Bedford Tuesday 14 February, Choir Concert, 7.30pm St Paul’s Church

Cantamus Chamber Choir Conductor Gary Mudd

Thursday 16 February, Choir concert, Bunyan Meeting 7.45 pm

Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU

Choir of Clare College, Cambridge (in partnership with Bedford Music Club), Graham Ross, conductor, Samuel Jones & Daniel Blaze, organ One of the world’s finest choirs in a stunning programmme.

Friday 17 February 2-4pm St Paul’s Church M4M (Music for Memory) is Tibbs Dementia Foundation’s community music therapy service for people living with dementia/memory loss and their families/friends. Also Promethidion, a group of young Polish singers who will be joining us in their national costume, a beautiful sight and sound! https://www.bedfordsings.com/

HALF TERM AT THE HIGGINS

HEADS, SHOULDERS, KNEES AND TOES!

Tuesday 14th February – Green Man Clay Faces

Join The Wildlife Trust and discover local nature £5 per child

Wednesday 15th February – Cell Art

Join Little Science Labs and explore cells with microscopes £5 per child

Thursday 16th February – Jointed Puppets

Join local artist Kaye Mahoney and discover the magic of puppetry and theatre £5 per child

Friday 17th February– Art Cube

Join artist Greta Dalum-Tilds. Explore observational drawing and the art in Changing Times. All workshops last about an hour and start at 11:15am, 12:45 and 2:15pm each day, Children must be accompanied by an adult (adults do not need to book a place)

£5 per child. Not suitable for under 5’s Places are limited and can be booked online at www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk/Book_Online/ Book_Online.aspx or by phoning the box office: Box Office Opening Times Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Telephone: 01234 718044

VALENTINE’S CRAFTS AT MARSTON VALE FOREST TUESDAY 14 FEBRUARY

Come along to our Valentine’s Day themed craft session at the Forest Centre! Each child will receive a valentines themed object to paint and decorate. We provide the art and craft supplies and a themed object ready for decoration – you just need to let your imagination run amok with Valentine’s designs! Ticket includes all materials for crafting, and the decoration to take home at the end of the session. £4 per child Age 3+ (Make sure appropriate clothing is worn) The Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine www.marstonvale.org/Event/valentines-craftstuesday-14-february-2023

BEDFORD RSPB LOCAL GROUP

COLMWORTH & NEIGHBOURS HISTORY SOCIETY

FRIDAY 17 FEBRUARY 7.30PM

Paddy Lambert will be talking about a RomanoCeltic villa: the temple-mausoleum and evidence of industry at Priors Hall, Corby Free for members. Visitors welcomed for a donation of £4.

Colmworth Village Hall, Church Road, Colmworth MK44 2JX. www.colmworthhistory.org.uk for further info.

AFTERNOON VINTAGE TEA

FRIDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2PM TO 4PM

Entry £4

Includes tea, home-made cake and friendship Christ the King Parish Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford, MK42 0SP For information call Myriam on 07590 558275

THE BIG BLUNHAM BOOK SALE

SATURDAY 25 FEBRUARY 10.00AM TO 3.00PM

There will be an enormous selection of nearly new books – specialist and fiction sorted into categories. Home-made soup, home-made cakes, hot dogs, teas and coffees served all day. All profits to Blunham Church Fabric Fund. Blunham Parish Church, MK44 3NQ For further details please ring Sue and Peter Holden 01767 640572

BEDFORDSHIRE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA SAT 25 FEBRUARY 7.30PM

THURSDAY 16 FEBRUARY 7.30PM

AIMING TO FINISH BY 9.30PM

Charlie Porter. Wood End Farm in Cole is an arable Farm owned and managed by Charlie and his wife, very much with nature in mind. During tonights talk -‘Farming for Wildlife’- Charlie will tell us the part he and his team are playing to help the recovery of our local wildlife. Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 under 18s enter free. The facilities, including refreshments, are at ground level and there is secure parking. Meet at the ARA club, Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF

Reg.Charity No. 207076, more info www.rspb.org. uk/groups/bedford or call 07905 199769

Soloist: Mengyang Pan Conductor: Michael Rose Programme: Rossini – Overture to Semiramide Schumann – Piano Concerto in A minor Brahms – Symphony No. 4 in E minor Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL. Tickets available from the Corn Exchange Box Office: B.S.O – Michael Rose 50th Anniversary concert – Bedford Corn Exchange

FOR MORE WHAT’S ON EVENTS VISIT WWW.BEDSLIFEMAGAZINE.CO.UK

To list an event in our March issue please email christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk by Friday 10th February. Priority will be given to non profit events.

Bedford Music Club is a registered charity (262943) that promotes classical music concerts by established and up-and-coming professional artists. We are proud to announce our 2023 season.

On Thursday 16 February the Choir of Clare College, Cambridge and conductor Graham Ross return to Bunyan Meeting with a spectacular choral programme. William Byrd’s masterful Mass for four voices is interwoven amongst works from Monteverdi and Rachmaninov to Arvo Pärt and Freya Waley-Cohen, including Howells’ St Paul’s Service and James MacMillan’s masterpiece, Miserere.

Next up, on Thursday 16 March, a brilliant young ensemble, the Alkyona Quartet performs string quartets by Caroline Shaw, Janáček and Brahms in fresh interpretations at Bunyan Meeting. Alkyona is Greek for ‘kingfisher’ and all music makers can relate to the thrill of chasing the fleeting musical moment, or the ‘flash of blue’ as the kingfisher streaks past.

Moving venue to St Paul’s Church on Thursday 20 April violinist Mathilde Milwidsky and pianist Annie Yim present a programme of late romantic and classical compositions by Schumann, Ravel, Boulanger, Beethoven and Ysaye. This concert is sponsored by the Countess of Munster Musical Trust and follows on from a sensational online concert that Mathilde gave for Bedford Music Cub during the long Covid lockdown.

Finally, we return to Bunyan Meeting on Thursday 18 May for a concert-play, Into the Melting Pot

This concerns the intolerance experienced by Jewish, Christian and Muslim women in 1492 Spain. At twilight on her final night in Seville, a Jewish woman lights the lamps. She is being forced to leave Spain and set sail for an uncertain future. Down the centuries, women’s stories of integration, love, the rich cultural heritage of the Spanish peninsula and racial intolerance are played out to a soundtrack of plaintive Sephardic songs and lively medieval music, with full staging and stunning lighting. Be transported back to 15th century Seville!

All concerts begin at 7.45pm

Full concert details and booking information are available now at www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk

For more information, contact Ian Rowlands T 07401 119776

E ian.rowlands@ntlworld.com

WIN a Family Ticket to see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on FRiday 10th February

T’s & C’s:

• Tickets are for the Friday 10 February 7pm performance only.

• Tickets will be sent via email in advance of the performance.

• Tickets are non-transferable, nonrefundable, non-exchangeable and cannot be re-sold.

• No cash alternative will be given

Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - The Musical; the devilishly, delicious tale of young golden ticket winner Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectionary wizard Willy Wonka (Gareth Snook), will play Milton Keynes Theatre in 2023. Embarking on its first ever UK & Ireland Tour, this dazzling new production of the successful West End and Broadway musical will take you to a world of pure imagination. When Charlie wins a golden ticket to the weird and wonderful Wonka Chocolate Factory, it’s a chance of a lifetime to feast on the sweets they’ve always dreamed of. But beyond the gates astonishment awaits, as down the sugary corridors and amongst the incredible and edible delights, the five lucky winners discover not everything is as sweet as it seems.

To be in with a chance to win, email your name and phone number to competitions@bedsLifemagazine.co.uk and tell us who wrote the book ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’. Entries must be received by Monday 6th February

MILKYS MUSIC MATTERS

INDEPENDENT VENUE WEEK

FIVE gigs @ Esquires

Come along and support an event or two (or three.. etc), this will help keep Esquires on the map for such gigs in future. Being an independent venue on the national circuit for touring bands is vital for Bedford for a number of reasons let alone giving bands a platform to play. If you haven’t “dipped your toe in the water” and been to a gig lately, Esquires is THE place to try. In the last few years the likes of Wolf Alice, George Ezra, Royal Blood, Sleaford Mods, Public Service Broadcasting and many others have played the venue before moving up to arenas. Missed out on Coldplay (played here twice), The Libertines, RIDE (just last year) then don’t dilly-dally, get a ticket for the next big thing….

OPUS KINK Thur 9th Feb – Esquires

An everyday story, band rolls into town fully intent on winning a ection and leaving an aural imprint, selling a bit of merch then rolling right onto the

next tour stop. Occasionally you’ll encounter a band that o ers a bit more, meet Opus Kink, a squad so shrewdly named, less a gang, more a coterie of malfeasance and bacchanal, assembled to seduce and provoke. You don’t need to know where they’re from, what they’ve done previously, just know they’re here to o er you some escapism through good old-fashioned aural pleasure. With a stockpile of tunes o ering odes of brassy sass, bottomless grooves, powerhouse choruses and sinewy guitar stabs they will undoubtedly conquer ears en masse. Steered by their transcendent chief miscreant Angus Rogers (super power = menacing stare), the intent is to create a vibe that embraces the maelstrom, each performance unique and chaotic yet pure and righteous. A beauteous tangle of trumpet, sax, keys, guitar, bass, drums and vox adorns their collection of dramatic compositions, ‘St Paul of the Tarantulas’, ‘Til the Stream Runs Dry’ and ‘The Unrepentant Soldier’ – even the titles howl eruditely. Embrace the chaos, the true purveyors of sonic sagacity return to Esquires on the 9th February. Tickets available at www.seetickets.com, Slide and Esquires.

BEN OTTEWELL (GOMEZ)

Fri 10th Feb – Esquires

Gomez began meteorically, in 1996, they were a gang of friends from the north-west, fresh out of university and sharing a house in the upmarket Yorkshire town of Ilkley, where they began taping the jam sessions they held in their garage on a four-track cassette recorder. The results not only earned them a record deal, but ended up being released as their 1998 debut album Bring It On. It sold half a million copies and ultimately won

ESQUIRES

Wed 1st Feb Trampolene + The Rills

Thur 2nd Feb Sprints

Fri 3rd Feb Anti Nowhere League

Sat 4th Feb Sick Joy

Sun 5th Feb Large Plants

GIGS FOR

Thur 9th Feb Opus Kink

Fri 10th Feb Ben Ottewell (Gomez)

Sat 11th Feb Warrington-Runcorn New Town Development Plan

Sat 18th Feb Dr Feelgood

+ 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 Mercury music prize. Unusually they never had a designated frontman -- Ottewell, Ian Ball, and Tom Gray all sang, and the band’s albums usually included several vocal performances from each -- but Ottewell took the helm more than his bandmates, making him one of the group’s most prominent members. After releasing the band’s sixth album in 2009, he began paving the way for a solo career, making his debut with the release of 2011’s Shapes & Shadows. His sophomore longplayer, Rattlebag, followed in 2014 and latterly Man Apart in 2017.

Rolling Stone declared, “Gomez’s not-so-secret weapon is Ben Ottewell.” And as GQ Magazine once wrote and anyone listening can attest, “[his] voice is not of this world.” Tickets at Slide, Esquires or online at seetickets.com

Development Plan. The brainchild of Gordon Chapman-Fox, the brilliantly named WarringtonRuncorn New Town Development Plan have to date released three albums of that pay homage to the brutalist beauty of Cheshire’s designated new towns of Warrington and Runcorn. Simultaneously evoking both the past and the future with their evocative electronics they’ve played the End of the Road festival and been compared to Boards of Canada as well as a certain German band… ‘The sound of Kraftwerk charting the ring roads of Milton Keynes rather than the autobahns of Europe…’

Support from Field Lines Cartographer.- uses analogue synths & field recordings, creating often dark, occasionally bucolic soundscapes and Polypores (aka Stephen James Buckley) who paints music with a modular synthesizer, drawing influence from ambient, new age, and experimental electronics.

Tickets are £8.50, available from Seetickets and from Slide and Esquires

COMING UP, COMING UP

WARRINGTON-RUNCORN NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Sat 11th Feb – Esquires

Independent record label Castles in Space curate an evening of brilliant contemporary electronica featuring…Warrington-Runcorn New Town

Catch them before they move to bigger venues Trampolene, The Rills, Sprints Lucky to see them still in smaller venue –Opus Kink, Ben Ottewell Grungey rock – Sick Joy Folksters – Large Plants Legends – Dr Feelgood Punk – Anti Nowhere League Electronica – Warrington-Runcorn New Town Development Plan

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THE STUDY HOUSE

Last week our fledgling PM introduced an unheard of innovation within our education system. He stated that, “All children will study some form of maths to age 18”. Wow! Brave man.

But surely this is going to cause some of my more numerically-challenged students to ask me one of their favourite questions: “How’s all this abstract ‘number’ nonsense going to help me with my life?”.

This summer I spent 4 months working with a team of five top blokes, who knocked my newlypurchased house to pieces and then rebuilt it. Early one morning I got a phone call from Eric, the topbloke-in-charge. He wasn’t happy: “Er, boss, you’ve botched your order for the floor tiles. We’re about 30 short!”. That’s a pretty big error, yet I’d tried to be so careful with my calculations. Tiles: 225mm sq = 0.051m2 per tile; oddly-shaped floor area = 28.4m2; number of tiles required, including 10% wastage =

617; sold in boxes of 40, hence buy 16 boxes. What could go wrong?

So perhaps the new PM has a point. Extra maths questions about floor tiles may soon be helping us build our numerical self-confidence, and so face down gangs of laughing builders. Later, I drove over to the unfinished house to check my measurements. Slipped down behind the upturned bath tub in the living room I found two packets of tiles…

Richard Collins is the founder of The Study House, a learning centre based in Clapham, Bedford. He teaches 11 – 18 year olds a core curriculum, built around Mathematics, Science, Philosophy and Critical Thinking.

Work with an experienced tutor who has a reputation for making a difference in areas of knowledge related to STEM, Philosophy and Critical Thinking. My teaching methods were developed over 25 years of experience teaching in Sixth Form Colleges and privately. The principal aim is to help students increase their enjoyment of their subjects, and so see a natural improvement in their grades. I offer tutoring from my new, purpose-built teaching studio in Clapham.

Contact me on: Mobile: 07789 818 499 Email: richcollins@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.chiswicktuition.co.uk/

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INFECTIOUS DISEASES in imported dogs

There are some diseases that we see in dogs arriving into the UK from other countries that are not seen in the UK otherwise. These diseases can cause illness in the dogs themselves, and sometimes there is a risk of the infection spreading to humans and other dogs that have contact with the imported dog.

It is important that your veterinary practice knows if your dog was born or lived in another country before coming to the UK so that any imported diseases can be detected and treated correctly.

Imported diseases that are dangerous for humans

Canine brucellosis is an infection that primarily spreads between dogs when they mate or have puppies. Unfortunately, the infection can cause serious illness in people, especially if they have contact with birthing fluids, or are splashed with blood, urine or saliva in the eyes or mouth.

Imported diseases that are dangerous for dogs

There are other infections that imported dogs can carry that do not become apparent for months or years after arrival. These diseases include Leishmaniasis, Borrelia, and Anaplasmosis. Blood tests can be performed to check if your pet is carrying one of these diseases.

Heartworms are a parasite found outside of the UK. Many of the worming products used routinely in the UK can be dangerous if given to pets that are already infected with heartworm. It is recommended that pets that were born in or have lived in countries outside of the UK are tested for heartworm with a blood test before routine worming treatment is prescribed to them.

I have a rescue dog from outside of the UK, what do I need to do?

Let your vet know at your next routine vet visit. If your pet is pregnant make an appointment to discuss the possibility of imported infectious disease as soon as possible, before birth is imminent. If your pet was imported by a charity ask the organisation if your pet has already been tested for any imported diseases and share the results with your vet. If your vet recommends blood testing go ahead with this if you possibly can. Practice good hygiene around your pet, especially when clearing up urine.

THE POTTING SHED OF THE GENTLEMAN GARDENER

Hello everyone

You’re all very welcome back to my potting shed. In recent weeks we’ve had snow, frost, winds, and almost constant rain. So, without wishing the year away, here’s something to look forward to… the clocks go forward on Sunday 25th March. As I’m out in my garden, I notice a little extra daylight each day.

St Valentine’s Day is the 14th of this month and the little-known Random Acts of Kindness Day is on the 17th. I try to celebrate that every day of the year.Your winter flowering shrubs should be pruned back as soon they have finished flowering. Winter flowering Jasmine, Jasminium Nudi-Florum, benefits from timely pruning so please do it now.

This is a good time of year to create a small rock garden – an interesting home for alpines. Use 8-10 moderate-sized rocks, and fill the spaces with good soil.

I’ll gladly share with you something I learned a couple of years ago: fruit trees growing in grass

often achieve little growth because they are starved of nitrogen. This can be remedied by feeding now with sulphate of ammonia or nitrogen chalk – use about 4oz (in old money) per tree.

Prep now for asparagus planting. The ground must be really clean and deeply dug, then wellmanured to the depth of a spade.Please don’t forget our precious wildlife at this time of year. Check your bird tables for seed and put out suet and fat balls and of course some fresh water.

I’m so much looking forward to the coming spring and growing season, I hope you are too. Pondering with a co ee under a big oak the other day, an old saying came to my mind: “Children, marriages, and gardens always reflect the care they get.”

Right, I’m o to check the bird tables. Have a great month and remember to see life as it is but focus on the good things.

My kindest regards The Gentleman Gardener

Gardening Tips and Advice from

ADVERTISER INDEX

Artificial Grass

Prestige Lawns 53

Bathrooms

QP Interiors 5

Builders

Ashley Builders 45

Highpoint Construction 54

JVM Construction 17

Care Homes

Blakelands Lodge 27

Care Provider

A Class Care 40 Right at Home 25

Carpets & Flooring

A & A Carpets 9

Charities

Bedford Daycare Hospice 42

Chimney Sweep

The Black Horse Chimney Sweep 57

Chiropodists and Podiatrists

Saxon Footcare 20

Cleaning Services

CitrusClean 43 OvenClean Bedford 61

Clock & Watch Repairs & Sales

Bedford Clocks 60

Clothing

Lodgeway Countrywear 25

Coffee Shops

No.7 Coffee House 31

Communications

Necessity Services Ltd 43

Computer Repair/Maintenance/Sales

Oakley IT 29

Cruise Specialists

Cruise Select 23

Curtains & Blinds

Emperor Blinds 60

Domestic Appliance Repairs

JB Domestic Ltd 44

Electrician

Craddock Electrical Services Ltd 44 M Halls Electrical 51

Farm Shops

Browns of Stagsden 25

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Top Knot Timber Flooring 60

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After Hours Entertainment Ltd 37 Funeral Services

Abbotts funerals 62 Neville Funeral Service 29

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Almond Garage Doors 60

Garolla Holdings Ltd 49

Gardening Services/Supplies

Bryan Johnson Landscapes 60

MJ Nicholson 60

SI Waterscapes 55

TPI garden Services 53

Guttering Services

MK Guttering 56

Hair & Beauty

Deborah Hair 61

Enhance 20

Health & Fitness

Norman Gray 61

The Nurse Clinic 21

Home Improvements

HomeFix ( Home Counties ) Ltd 11

Hypnotherapy

ATK Hypnotherapy and Counselling 61

Kitchen Doors

Dream Doors 11

Laundry & Ironing Services

Bubbles Laundrette 43

Locksmiths

A Rocket 44 Steadfast Locksmiths Limited 61

Loft Ladders

Access4lofts 50 Home Counties Loft Ladders LTD 2

Music Tuition

Richard Collins Tuition 41

Painting & Decorating

Bromham Painting & Decorating 48 Craig Johnson 50

Plasterer

CM Plastering 44 Craig Johnson 50

Plumbing, Heating & Boiler Services

BHC Heating & Plumbing 48

CM Plumbing 50

The Bedford Plumbers 57

TR Donnelly 60

Property Maintenance

Mr Fix Property Maintenance 51

Restaurants

The Kingfisher Pub & Rooms 35

Retirement Living

Elderswell 15

Sewing Machine Maintanance Neica Morrow 61

Skip Hire

Paul Riches 56

Soft Furnishings

Cool & Classic 19

Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs

Crystal Leisure Pools Ltd 54

Theatres

Sharnbrook Mill Theatre 30 Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s 37

Tree Surgeons

Eden Tree Specialists 56 Original tree Services 54 Quercus Tree Specialists 53

Upholstery

M & S Upholstery 60

Used Car Buyers

Paul Jones Cars 61

Veterinary Practice

Acorn House Veterinary Hospital 46

Will Writing

RWA St Neots Ltd 29 The Will Writing Company 63

Window Repairs & Glazing

Cloudy 2 Clear 64

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Bromham Windows 48 G&L Windows 17 Kempston Windows 51

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