BedsLife SOUTH Magazine March 2022

FREE

South edition

MARCH

2022

inside Community News NEW Martin Lewis Monthly Article Mother’s Day Gift Inspirations What’s On £25 Prize Crossword

10,000 copies Delivered to Elstow, Shortstown, Wixams, Wilstead, Houghton Conquest, Stewartby, Marston Moretaine.

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Contents

Community News

4&6

Health – Posture

8

Mamma’s House

10

Book Reviews

12

Prize Crossword

14

NEW Martin Lewis

16

Energy Price Cap

18

What’s On

20

Mother’s Day Gift Inspirations

26

New Highway Code Rules

28

Forest of Marston Vale – Green Space

30

Gardening

34

Useful Resources

36

Last Months Crossword Answers

38

Don’t forget to check out our website

www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

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

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Welcome

Spring is finally here and this month we celebrate St. David’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, the 25th anniversary of World Book Day, International Women’s Day and at the end of the month British Summer Time begins. March always feels like a time of renewal, when the days start to get warmer, and we feel more inclined to venture outside after our enforced Winter hibernation.

Of course things are very different from this time last year. In 2021 we were still living with lockdown restrictions and wondering if there was ever going to be an end to this awful pandemic. But a year on and I’m sure I’m not alone in thinking that maybe – just maybe – there is…?

I was intrigued to learn about “Made in UK Day” planned for 9th March 2022. Founded in 2011, this is a day when we’re being encouraged to celebrate UK manufacturing by buying something made in the UK and sharing it using the hashtag #madeinukday.

The organisers say that if everyone bought just one item made in the UK worth £20 it would be worth £1.3 billion in revenue! You can find out more by visiting www.makeitbritish.co.uk, plus if you’re a UK business owner there are free resources to download.

That just leaves room for a reminder that the clocks go forward on 27th March.

Christa & The BedsLife Team

APRIL ISSUE DEADLINE WEDNESDAY 9TH MARCH

3

community news Community Art to Commemorate Captain Sir Tom Moore

experience, as well as celebrate his legacy, through the final artwork.”

Nicky Straccia, Deputy Headteacher of Marston Moreteyne VC Lower School, said: “We’re extremely proud and grateful to be involved in creating the artwork to remember Captain Sir Tom, who’s become a really important figure in local history and an inspiration to many. All the children are loving being involved, and we can’t wait to see the finished piece.”

The final artwork will be displayed at the Forest Centre in the Millennium Country Park in Marston Morteyne later in the year. The project has been funded by grants from Central Bedfordshire Council and the Forest of Marston Vale Community Fund.

A new piece of art is set to honour Captain Sir Tom Moore, featuring artwork by children at Marston Moreteyne VC Lower School and cards he received for his 100th birthday.

Mother’s Day Tea for Twoo!

Captain Sir Tom captured the support of the nation when he walked 100 laps around his garden in Marston Moreteyne during the first lockdown, raising almost £40million for the NHS. His fundraising led to a knighthood, and on his 100th birthday he received around 160,000 cards from well-wishers.

Artist Sophie Gresswell will create a portrait of Captain Sir Tom on a rainbow backdrop made up of smaller pieces of artwork including a selection of the birthday cards and art by the children from the school.

Sophie will lead workshops to help the children create their own abstract art pieces inspired by Captain Sir Tom’s legacy, his birthday cards and their own experiences of people who helped and inspired them throughout the pandemic. All the children at the school will be involved, with a selection of their work set to be included in the final piece.

Sophie Gresswell said: “Captain Sir Tom Moore inspired so many people to connect at a time when it was so hard to come together, and I hope to depict this sense of togetherness and shared

4

Looking for a Mother’s Day gift with a difference? A Mother’s Day Tea with Owls at Herring Green Activity Farm on Sunday 27 March is certain to create lasting memories.

Spend some time with the beautiful owls and then then head into the tearoom to enjoy tea and a delicious array of cakes.

During your visit you will have the opportunity to meet, handle and fly different species of owls. Come face to face with a barn owl, feel the weight of a giant eagle owl, meet the baby great grey owls and cheeky tawny owl. There will be plenty of photo opportunities too.

Admission to the site is included in the price of £21 per person, so you can stay and enjoy the birds of prey centre and the farm.

Places are limited so book now at www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk

Heritage Sites Champion Artisan Producers

food growers and handmade gifts and crafts.

Trade stall will be positioned around the grand rooms of Shuttleworth House so visitors can enjoy the stunning interiors as they shop. Entry is free, however, donations to the Shuttleworth Trust are appreciated. Visitors are welcome to wander around the world-famous collection of aircraft or enjoy a walk around the beautiful nine-acre Swiss Garden. A small refreshments station will be open at Shuttleworth House or guests can dine at the Runway Café by the Shuttleworth Collection Hangars.

Can you help Wixams Scouts?

Wixam Scouts are looking for leaders, volunteers and young leaders to join their busy group which meets on Friday evenings.

Two historic venues in the region are championing local, independent traders with food and gift events this month.

Jordans Mill hosts the first of this year’s outdoor Craft & Food Fayre on Saturday 5 March. With a fantastic range of stalls including sweet treats, handmade items, locally made foods and more, there will be plenty to browse. Partnering with ‘Love Local Craft & Food Fayre’, the fairs are set to take place in the front car park and throughout the grounds of Jordans Mill on the first Saturday of each month.

The weekend of 26-27 March sees Shuttleworth House host a Spring Food, Craft and Gift Market with an abundance of artisan products from local

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If you would like to learn new skills, make friends and support the next generation, then scouting could be for you.

Email your interest to GSL@1stwixamsscouts.org.uk or visit www.scouts.org.uk to discover the benefits of volunteering.

Do you have some village news to share?

Email jacqui@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Copy deadline for the March issue is 9 Marchw

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How returning to the fundamentals of good posture could drastically improve your quality of life.

Three If, alternatively, you have a job that means standing around for an extended period – for instance, a shop assistant – resist leaning on one leg and instead keep legs hip width apart, tummy pulled in and bum tucked under.

Physically, aches and ailments brought on from perennial bad posture spread to all parts of the body, creating issues as varied as poor digestion, neck pain, headaches, issues with feet, knees, and hips, and even breathing problems.

Three exercises to do outside of work Muscle memory isn’t just something you read about when buying a mattress – it’s a real thing we can plug into our body’s framework to ensure we become more resilient to long periods sat or stationed in the same position.

LIGHT POSTURING

Bad posture, from slumping on sofas, hunching over computers, leaning in towards smartphones and tablets, and generally getting dragged down by life’s woes, not only takes its toll on our joints and muscles, it also affects how we feel about ourselves.

Three methods to improve posture while working Our posture is most compromised when we’re sat or stood for prolonged periods of time.

Humans are conditioned to know when they need to move around, and work can often seriously restrict our ability to do this (though not always – long periods on a mobile phone are just as bad).

Here are some easy fixes you may want to consider for alleviating the pressure on your posture: One Make sure your chair is at the right height, so your screen is comfortably level with your eyeline. Shoulders should be down and back, and avoid crossing your legs. When typing keep arms at a comfortable 90-degree angle in a nice, neutral resting position.

Two Relax in your chair – they come with armrests for a reason!

One Any general movement that frees you from being stuck in one place will lead to better posture, so change your stationary position, stretch, jog on the spot, and even lay flat if you feel it is putting flexibility back into your body.

Two Good posture is achieved through strong core and glute muscles. That means regular exercise, so keep up with those sit-ups and lunges!

Three Undertaking exercise classes and pursuits to counter the negative effects of being stuck in one place is a great idea too. Pilates has been proven to be one of the most efficient workouts, and one that can retune your entire body to work more effectively, making you pain-free feel stronger and full of confidence.

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9

Spring Cleaning… with a little help

Get a head start on your spring clean, by encouraging your children to help with household chores. With any luck it will instil good valuable habits and vital life skills.

time with you, no matter what you are doing, and it is often a great time to chat to your little ones.

My older two - four and three years old - leave a path of destruction wherever they go. But they (usually) do enjoy helping out around the house if I can make it fun; for example, by turning it into a race or competition, or cranking up the music. They also enjoy feeling involved with the tasks I’m doing around the house. They feel a sense of achievement on completing a task and helping Mummy.

Of course some of these you might have to redo yourself. But make sure you praise them for the effort and not just the outcome.

Helping out with household chores teaches children a range of skills such as; • Self-care • Problem solving • Cause and effect • Responsibility • Team work • Improved motor skills.

Allowing your children to be involved with jobs at home builds their confidence, by knowing how to do things and becoming self reliant. I’ve also learnt that a child’s favorite toy is you! They are happy spending

Ways toddlers can help around the house

• • • • • • • •

Loading the washing machine Cleaning windows Tidy their room Put away toys Water plants Dusting Washing up Helping to prepare food

If you have older children, you might introduce some more age appropriate tasks such as vacuuming and making their beds.

Don’t forget keep it fun and don’t expect perfection. Let them do it, follow their lead, and give them lots of praise.

We’d love to see what you get up to, tag and follow us on Instagram @mammas_house 10

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11

In pursuit of Knowledge A voyage into learning and insight this month, with four engaging and intriguing books to look out for.

The Jaws Book: New Perspectives on the Classic Summer Blockbuster

by I.Q. Hunter After almost 50 years, Steven Spielberg’s Jaws remains the definitive summer blockbuster, a cultural phenomenon with a fierce and dedicated fan base. The Jaws Book: New Perspectives on the Classic Summer Blockbuster is an exciting, illustrated collection of new critical essays that offers the first detailed and comprehensive overview of the film’s significant place in cinema history.

Bringing together established and young scholars, the book includes contributions from leading international writers on popular cinema, and covers such diverse topics as the film’s release, reception and canonicity, its representation of masculinity and children, the use of landscape and the ocean, its galvanising impact on the horror genre, and contemporary Hollywood itself.

Published by Bloomsbury on March 24th

The Changing Face of Burberry: Britishness, Heritage, Labour and Consumption

by Sian Weston As a brand that’s circumnavigated catwalk and terrace culture, Burberry presents itself as ultimately unique, with its output in the 21st century a quintessential notion of British tradition.

The Changing Face of Burberry examines how the company successfully built this sense of tradition and how it has retained and capitalised on it within contemporary consumer culture, providing an authoritative account of shifting forms of British identity, consumer culture and fashion production over two centuries.

Published by Bloomsbury Visual Arts in April 2022

12

The Palace Papers

by Tina Brown Tina Brown takes you inside Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle in this riveting story about the members of the royal family.

Encapsulating everything following the death of Princess Diana to today, Brown covers Prince Charles’s marriage to Camilla, the allegations around Prince Andrew, the rise in popularity of Kate Middleton, the tension between William and Harry, and the eventual defection of Harry and Meghan.

Whether a self-appointed royalist or otherwise, our intense desire to lift the lid on the lives of those at the top of the social tree will always make tomes such as this one of the most anticipated books of the year.

Published by Penguin Random House on March 22nd

Kraftwerk’s Computer World

by Steve Tupai Francis Kraftwerk’s most concise and focused conceptual statement, Computer World was also their most influential album, paving the way for a range of new musical styles and genres.

This book explores the band’s revolutionary sonic template, and their lyrical obsessions in detail, exploring transition, via theories of post-humanism, cybernetics and the anthropology of transnationalism.

It is a deep read that sandwiches electronic music in between philosophy and culture, to produce cherished coffee table reading.

Published by Bloomsbury on April 7th

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13

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For last months answers please turn to P30

Across

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14

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15

CONSUMER

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 a new column beginning in this issue, Martin Lewis discusses the perils of car insurance.

The cost of motoring is highly topical right now.

From soaring fuel prices to electric cars right the way through to low emission zones, we’ve perhaps never had to fight our way through so much commotion and noise where our wheels are concerned.

While so much seems fluid as far as the affordability of our cars goes, one thing that seems constant – constantly high – is the cost of car insurance.

I’m always asked what people should look for when they are searching for car insurance, and above everything else I would recommend they focus on price.

I think there’s a slight myth in the insurance world that if you pay more you are going to get a better claim. If you’re going for a high-street insurance policy and you pay £300 or £500, don’t assume that the £500 will be a better product.

Finally, a word about gender equality on car insurance premiums. A few years ago regulations came in designed to make things more equal, but all the evidence shows there is still a large disparity between prices for men and women.

I’ve wrestled with this a lot – car insurance prices represent a behavioural difference between a man and a woman, so why should we be stereotyped that we will all behave like the rest of our gender?

Having said that, should we not be allowed to discriminate on age as well because an 18-year-old drives in a different way to a 58-year-old?

Ultimately, insurance is a risk-based product and there are always winners and losers in these things.

Funnily enough, in the first big campaign for gender equality in insurance, the big loser was young women because their prices went up, which is perhaps not always what people think of when they talk about equality campaigns: women losing out. So, there’s a balance between principle and practice here, and I think principle can win at practice’s cost.

Price should and will always be the core driver for most people because car insurance is a grudge purchase.

As for securing that best price, while most insurers are on price comparison sites, some – Aviva, Direct Line etc. – are not, so check between the two and always try to go through a cashback site to bring down the price further.

16

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

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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.

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Energy Price Cap Rise of 54% The Government has announced a rise to their price cap, which will impact energy prices for most people in the UK from 1 April 2022.

The increase is driven by a record rise in global gas prices over the last six months, with wholesale prices quadrupling in the last year. It will affect default tariff customers who haven’t switched to a fixed deal and those who remain with their new supplier after their previous supplier exited the market.

The price cap allows energy companies to pass on all reasonable costs to customers, including increases in the cost of buying gas. Since the price cap was last updated in August, the current level does not reflect the unprecedented record rise in gas prices which has since taken place.

Under the price cap mechanism, energy companies will be allowed to pass on these higher costs from April when the new level takes effect. This is because energy companies cannot afford to supply electricity and gas to their customers for less than they have paid for it.

Help is available If you are struggling to pay for energy bills, you should contact your energy supplier as soon as possible. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for extra help with your energy bills or services, such as debt repayment plans, payment breaks, emergency credit for prepayment meters, priority support and schemes like the Winter Fuel Payment or Warm Home Discount rebate.

Breathing Space Scheme This is a scheme to give households time to receive debt advice and find a solution to sort out their debt problems. Breathing Space will last for 60 days as long as applicants remain eligible, during which time all creditors who have been included will be informed and must stop any collection or enforcement activity. Once the breathing space ends, creditors will be able to collect the debt in the usual way.

For advice call the National Debtline on Freephone 0808 808 4000 or visit www.nationaldebtline.org The Citizens Advice consumer service can provide advice on how customers can resolve problems with their energy provider. You can contact Citizens Advice via webchat, or by calling 0808 223 1133.

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WHAT’S ON BEDFORD FLORAL ART SOCIETY TUESDAY 1ST MARCH 7.30PM A floral demonstration by Linda Seabrook entitled “Seasons Greetings”. Visitors welcome £7 Addison Centre, Addison Howard Park, Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8PN bedfordfloralartsociety.co.uk

STEWARTBY CLUB FUN QUIZ NIGHT SUNDAY 6TH MARCH 7PM Prizes for the winners Stewartby Way, Stewartby MK43 9NB / MK43 9LJ (Club Located behind village shop)

MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE CAR BOOT SALE SUNDAY 6TH MARCH Sellers 9am-2pm Cars £5 Vans £10 Buyers 10am-2pm Radwell road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH Any further enquiries please email : chrisfothergill@ miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk

ST. PAUL’S BEDFORD LUNCHTIME CONCERT SERIES EVERY TUESDAY IN MARCH 1PM 8th Osman Tack, Piano.

15th Andy Kershaw, Tuba and Ophicleide 22nd Flutes and Frets’, Beth Stone and Danny Murphy 29th Annabel Astridge, Mezzo Sopran Monthly Organ Recital Saturday 12th 12 noon with Sebastian Thomson Concerts are free with a retiring collection (suggested £5) in aid of church funds.

St Paul’s church, St Paul’s Sq, Bedford, MK40 1SQ, Tel: 01234 340163 Email: admin@stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk

BEDFORD LOCAL WILDLIFE TRUST WEDNESDAY 9TH MARCH ‘Fenland – that sinking feeling’ – an illustrated talk

by Dr Pat Doody Plenty of parking available, All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated.

Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or 01234 266057 Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnam Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ (Covid restrictions may apply i.e. Masks and Sanitiser Should there be a deterioration and medical advice to not meet, then we would adhere to that.)

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HARRY POTTER QUIZ NIGHT SATURDAY 12TH MARCH DOORS 7PM QUIZ 7.30PM All aboard the Hogwarts Express for a magical Harry Potter Quiz night!

Entry is £2.50 per person with a maximum of six in a team.

Cash prize for the winning team.

Licensed bar open all evening.

Book your tickets today for a magical evening! https://birdsofpreycentre.co.uk/.../harry-potter-quiz.../ The Stables, Herrings Green Farm, Cotton End Road, Wilstead MK45 3DT

BEDFORD BABY & CHILDREN’S INDOOR MARKET SATURDAY 12TH MARCH 11AM – 12.30PM Top quality LIKE NEW and NEW baby & children’s items from birth to 8 yrs. Plus a small selection of unique businesses in the baby & children’s industry showcasing and selling their products & services.

Great brands at up to 90% off the full retail price!

Adults £1.50 Kids FREE FREE car parking Bring plenty of CASH, no ATM available on site.

John Bunyan Sports Centre, Mile Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 9TS

CRAFT & GIFT FAYRE IN AID OF SAVE THE CHILDREN SUNDAY 13TH MARCH 10AM – 3PM FREE ENTRY Browse a wide selection of handmade crafts and unique gifts not found on the High Street.

Parkside Community Hall, Woburn Street, Ampthill MK45 2HY Donation to Save the Children appreciated.

FOREST OF MARSTON VALE LEARNING LUNCHTIMES MONDAY 14TH MARCH 11AM – 12 NOON Local, sustainable gin production from Willow Tree Distilling Willow Tree Distillery is Bedfordshire’s first and only distillery, and home of the award-winning Willow Tree gin. Limited space available, please arrive early to avoid disappointment. Donations to the Forest of Marston Vale are much appreciated. Car park charges apply.

The Forest Centre, Millennium Country Park, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PR

TALK & DRAW AT THE HIGGINS BEDFORD FRIDAY 18TH MARCH 12.30PM - 4PM FREE ENTRY Drop In - No Need to Book Join us for a relaxed and friendly chat about a selection of our favourite artworks on display at The Higgins Bedford. Stay with us to sketch and share your work. Art materials and portable chairs are provided. No art experience needed to join in.

Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD

GREAT EXPECTATIONS AT THE PLACE THEATRE SATURDAY 19TH MARCH 3.30PM & 7.30PM The critically-acclaimed Pantaloons proudly present an affectionately anarchic adaptation of Charles Dickens’ captivating coming-of-age chronicle. Join Pip the orphan on a journey through his eventful life via hilarious turns and tragic twists; filled with escaped convicts, eccentric spinsters, mysterious benefactors and gut-wrenching heartbreak.

The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE

PORTABLE ANTIQUITIES SCHEME AT THE HIGGINS BEDFORD WEDNESDAY 23RD MARCH 1PM – 3PM, FREE ENTRY Have you ever found archaeological objects whilst digging in the garden, taking the dog for a walk or metal detecting? Would you like to find out more about them? Matt Fittock, Finds Liaison Officer for the Portable Antiquities Scheme, can help.

More info www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk/Whats_on/ Portable_Antiquities_Scheme.aspx Booking essential!

FIVE STAR SWING - GREATEST SONGS FROM THE MOVIES FRIDAY 25TH MARCH 7.30PM An unforgettable mix of themes and songs from the greatest movies of all time - Star Wars, James Bond, Lawrence of Arabia…Performed by multiInstrumental / vocalists Five Star Swing.

The Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford MK40 2NN www.quarrytheatre.ticketsolve.com/shows

AFTERNOON VINTAGE TEA FRIDAY 25TH MARCH 2PM - 4PM Includes tea, home-made cake and friendship.

Entry £3.

Christ the King Parish Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford, MK42 0SP For information call Myriam on 07590 558275

WILSTEAD PRE-SCHOOL FUNDRAISING QUIZ NIGHT FRIDAY 25TH MARCH DOORS OPEN 7.30PM QUESTIONS 8PM Tickets £5 each Teams of up to 8 people Bar available Hosted by the legendary Samantha Lee ex blue coat entertainer!

Wilstead Village Hall, Cotton End Road, Wilstead MK45 3BX To book text 07948565992, Or phone 01234 742546

BEDFORD EAT FEAST FRIDAY 25TH MARCH 4PM – 9PM There will be an array of international flavours from established food trucks and caterers, coming together to celebrate good food and great company.

Great food, Music, Vegan/Veggie and Gluten Free options and lots more.

Riverside Square, Bedford MK40 1AS

TEA PARTY POETRY AT THE HIGGINS BEDFORD SATURDAY 26TH MARCH 2PM - 4PM, FREE ENTRY Booking Essential Join in free sessions of writing poetry alongside tea and treats in a small sociable group. Give a voice to your thoughts and emotions inspired by a different theme each session. No experience needed to join in. Sessions are suitable for ages 16+.

To book your place, email vicki.blair@bedford.gov.uk or call 01234 276362 Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD

CLAPHAM METHODIST CHURCH EASTER FAYRE SATURDAY 2ND APRIL 2PM - 4PM Various stalls including Easter Gifts, Cakes, Books, Raffle etc. Refreshments being served including cream teas. Everyone very welcome.

Clapham Methodist Church Hall, High St, Clapham MK41 6BW

BedsLife Magazine cannot be held responsible for any event changes, amends or cancellations. Please ensure to check ahead before attending.

To list an event in our April issue please email christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk by Friday 11th March. Priority will be given to non-profit events.

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Family Fun Day

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In Aid Of Gold Sponsor

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We are the voice for Parent Carers of children & young people 025yrs with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities in Bedford Borough. We feed back your views to Education, Health, Social Care and other departments that provide SEND services.

We are passionate about improving services for our children & young people, we’ve all had different experiences so we need to hear your views.

We hold regular Coffee Mornings, events and training sessions for parents to come along, give their views, meet other parents and to empower your to advocate for your child. If you would like to find out more or become a member please contact us or complete our online membership form by scanning this QR code or using this link : www.bbpcf.co.uk/contact

communications@bbpcf.org.uk

www.bbpcf.co.uk

07943 524553

Neurodiversity in a Multi-Cultural World 8th March 6.30pm Social Care Get Together Friday 18th March 10am 'Masking' Discussion Tuesday 22nd March 6.30pm Please book your place find the link via our website www.bbpcf.co.uk/events or email us communications@bbpcf.org. uk

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

25

Mother’s Day gift inspiration Twelve top ideas to put a smile on your mum’s face…

Fresh flowers Nothing says ‘I love you Mum’ like a beautiful bouquet of flowers. We have some talented florists in our area who will make up a bespoke floral collection.

A magazine subscription A gift that lasts all year round and gives you a wealth of choice. Pick a title you know she loves – or find an inspirational one that could introduce her to a new interest, or even keep her going on a New Year’s Resolution.

A photo shoot Treat mum to a session with a local photographer for a family photo with her favourite child (that’s you!)

Brothers and sisters and grandchildren could be included too.

A fancy frame For the glamorous photo you took of her last summer, a special card or document, or choose a gorgeous print by a local artist.

Quality time How about a pamper session for you and mum to enjoy together? It doesn’t have to be a full-blown spa day (although that would earn you many Brownie points!) a manicure followed by a glass of something nice at your favourite local pub could work.

Something sparkly What mum wouldn’t like a nice piece of jewellery?

Pick something pretty you know she’d like or buy a gift voucher and go along to help her choose. We’ve got some fab jewellery shops in our local towns so you might find a unique piece.

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A meal out This would be a welcome treat on Mothering Sunday.

Be sure to plan ahead though as the best venues will be booked up well in advance.

Learn together Why not book the two of you onto a local one day course or craft workshop? It’ll be a good time to bond and potentially discover some shared talents!

Cakes and chocolates A no brainer, right? Bake or make your own (there’s plenty of time for a few practice bakes), or look locally for something a bit different – you could even get your cake personalised.

A good book A romantic fictional tale to get lost in, or a pageturner thriller she won’t want to put down – the choice is yours.

A great day out Lots of options locally to enjoy exploring; an interesting stately home, an attractive garden, or grounds – and finish in a tea shop! You might want to cut straight to the tea shop (we’ve got lots of those locally!) or make a garden centre the focus of your day – the best ones sell drinks and cake too after all!

Tickets for something to look forward to A trip to the theatre, a comedy, a musical performance, a film… the options are endless. We’re lucky to have so much talent and choice on our doorstep.

TOP TIP If mum has a cat, it is essential that your bouquet does NOT contain lilies as these are extremely poisonous to cats.

Raleigh House, Ampthill Road, Bedford, MK42 9HE - 01234 266510 - www.bedfordcraftcentre.co.uk

We have two highly skilled seamstresses here at Bedford Arts & Crafts Centre.

Both Jeanette & Dorothy have years of teaching experience & we are pleased they are offering you 10 week courses, weekend workshops and afternoon master class sessions, to help you achieve all you can in sewing & dressmaking.

Take a look at our website for more information on all our classes, including Jeanette’s “Moving on in Sewing” series & Dorothy’s “How To” series.

There’s something for everyone!

Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday daytime Monday & Wednesday evening Selected Saturdays

We also offer courses & workshops in POTTERY ~ BOOKMAKING UPHOLSTERY ~ PRINTMAKING ~ LIFE DRAWING WATERCOLOURS ~ DRAWING STAINED GLASS ~ SILVER JEWELLERY ~ WAX

Bedford Arts & Crafts Centre is a not for profit, community interest company.

We offer a wide range of arts & crafts courses in the day, evening & at weekends for adults of all abilities.

New Highway Code Rules for 2022 The Highway Code has received a refresh, with a new set of rules coming into force from 29th January 2022. As well as some 49 existing laws having been updated, new rules will be introduced.

Hierarchy of road users

Safe passing distances

Previously The Highway Code stated all road users should be considerate towards each other, applying this principle to pedestrians and drivers equally. It meant that equal responsibility was originally placed on all road users for assuring the safety of others.

An amendment to existing Rule 163 sets out safe passing distances for drivers when overtaking cyclists, motorcyclists, horse riders and those in horse-drawn carriages.

The new hierarchy places responsibility on road users who could do greatest harm to others, and it is with them that the greatest obligation to protect the most vulnerable on the road now lies. Top of the hierarchy are lorry drivers, cars, vans, buses and motorcycles. But it should be noted that cyclists, horse riders and horsedrawn carriage drivers have a greater responsibility to reduce the danger posed to pedestrians.

Pedestrian priorities at junctions Prior to the rule change, road users would have given way to pedestrians who have started to cross the road into which they are turning.

Under the new rules priority must be given to pedestrians who are waiting to cross the road, which means that if you are about to turn into a road and a pedestrian is waiting to cross, you should give way.

New rule for drivers and motorcyclists at junctions The new rule states that when turning into or out of a junction, drivers should not cut across the path of any other road user, including cyclists, horse riders or horse-drawn vehicles, if doing so would cause the other road-user to slow down, stop or swerve.

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Drivers must give at least a 1.5 metre space when overtaking a cyclist at speeds of up to 30mph. More space should be allowed when overtaking at speeds of more than 30mph. Rule 72 establishes the right for cyclists to ride in the centre of their lane, to ensure that they remain visible.

When passing a pedestrian who is walking in the road, drivers should allow at least two metres of space and maintain a low speed.

Rule 213 has also changed and now states that on narrow sections of roads, horse riders may ride in the centre of the lane and drivers should allow them to do so for their own safety, to ensure they can see and be seen. Drivers should pass a horse at least 2 metres distance and at a slow speed.

In all cases, drivers will now have to wait behind a motorcyclist, cyclist, horse rider, horse-drawn vehicle or pedestrian and not overtake if it is unsafe or not possible to meet these clearances. Extra care should be taken in poor weather, including high winds.

For a more in-depth look at the new rules, visit: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/ uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/1037306/table-of-change-to-the-highway-code.pdf

Leaflet Distribution Service Would you like to target a specific area?

Let us do the legwork for you and deliver your leaflets along with BedsLife Magazine (minimum requirement 1,000) For more information on the areas we cover please email christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

Prices from £35 per 1,000

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

29

Living through the pandemic has given many people a new appreciation of the natural world. During lockdown, more people noticed the wildlife around them, in their garden, neighbourhood and local area.

As the ever-constant buzz of traffic noise became a distant memory, people started to tune into the birdsong instead. As home-schooling became the norm and entertainment was thin on the ground, families sought out adventure on long walks, and home-workers explored the local footpaths on their lunchbreaks.

Through the last 2 years we have sought solace and comfort in nature, and have re-discovered how vital it is to both our physical and our mental health.

There is mounting scientific evidence that nature is good for us. In a survey conducted

by Natural England in 2020, 85 per cent of participants reported that being in nature made them feel happy.

Green space - the Natural Health Service?

The benefits to physical health were evidenced in a study conducted by the University of East Anglia in 2018, which showed that populations that have greater access to greenspace are more likely to report overall good health – including a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, premature death, preterm birth, high blood pressure and more. Indeed, according to research from Natural England, if every household in England were provided with good access to quality greenspace it could save the NHS an estimated £2.1 billion.

There are countless different ways that you can connect with nature and enjoy some of these benefits for yourself. Stretching your legs and going for a walk is an obvious one - reducing blood pressure, lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and regulating

your melatonin levels, which help you to get a good night’s sleep. The Forest of Marston Vale has a wealth of green spaces to discover – check out the ‘explore’ menu on the website for links to walking routes close to you.

mindfully with all your senses. Touch the bark, inhale the fresh air, listen to the birdsong, take time to enjoy the sunlight through the leaves.

There’s no rush to get anywhere – take as long, or as little, as you like!

In Japan, taking a walk in a woodland is recognised as a therapy in itself called ‘Shinrin-Yoku’, or ‘Forest bathing’. There are 62 areas in Japan which have been designated as a ‘forest therapy base’ or ‘forest therapy road’, places where the population is encouraged to visit for physical and mental rejuvenation.

There are many other ways that you can actively engage with nature to improve your own health – right from your own home. Beefriendly flowers can be grown in a window box, balcony or garden. Keeping a few well-stocked bird feeders can bring real pleasure too – you can even buy feeders that attach to a window so you can see any visitors up close.

Japanese scientists believe that walking amongst trees can strengthen the immune system, because walkers inhale phytoncides (molecules secreted by trees to defend themselves against bacteria) as they wander.

So how do you ‘bathe’ in a forest to reap these benefits? It’s all about simply immersing yourself in the woodland experience. Leave your phone at home and head for your favourite woodland - there are plenty to choose from in the Forest of Marston Vale!

Wander wherever your fancy takes you – there’s no need to follow a set route. The object is to really focus on your surroundings

The benefits of the ‘Natural Health Service’ are now so well documented that the Government is currently funding seven ‘green prescribing’ pilot schemes around the UK, to explore the opportunities for people to connect with the environment to support health through activities such as conservation volunteering and group visits to greenspaces. The healing power of nature is certainly starting to be recognised, and in future, the local GP surgery may be offering prescriptions for woodland walks and outdoor exercise alongside the more usual treatments!

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FREE PHONE: 08000 141 911 EMAIL: SERVICE@ARGENTSINSTALLATIONS.CO.UK WEBSITE: ARGENTSINSTALLATIONS.CO.UK To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

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Gardening Tips and Advice from

The Potting Shed of the Gentleman Gardener It has been a very wet start to the gardening year, with above average rainfall for January and February, making the ground heavy and boggy underfoot.

You can enjoy timely maintenance tasks now. Raise any containers, that are not on feet or bricks, to protect them from late frosts and lag them with bubble wrap or straw and hessian; even hardy plants need protection in really cold weather, just like us.

Take the opportunity to make a fresh start: clear all the waste material from the beds and load it on the compost heap ready for next year’s planting, clean your gardening tools and sharpen and clean your mower and shears.

Spring is just around the corner, officially arriving on Sunday 20th March, so bring some colour back to your garden by planting fragrant flowering shrubs such as witch hazel and bright winter pansies.

Take time to give your lawn some TLC, and re-sow any bald or sparse patches that have appeared, to make your grass look its magnificent best come the summer months.

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Create your own floral masterpiece in time for summer: pot your plants now for your hanging baskets, containers and bedding so you can plant away when better early summer weather is with us again, as it surely will be.

Please enjoy your garden and the therapeutic benefits gardening brings. If you’re like me, never cease to be amazed by the wonder of the endless colours, smells and textures. Or, if you’re more of a vegetable gardener, all of the tastes and flavours that return to our garden every year.

Gardening is unique in many ways, not only for the personal aura it brings but because it is a joy to which there is no end.

What a writer writes remains on the page, as does the painter’s brushwork, the architect’s building or the composer’s score – a garden is temporal.

Happy gardening – The Gentleman Gardener

USEFUL RESOURCES

BEDFORDSHIRE RURAL COMMUNITIES CHARITY Delivering a wide range of rural development and community projects.

ACCESS BEDFORD Works with the D/deaf and hard of hearing community to make Bedford Borough more accessible.

They also have a facebook social group for Deaf people living in and around Bedford Tel 07376 262 873 www.accessbedford.org.uk

AGE UK BEDFORDSHIRE Local organisation solely devoted to the welfare of the over 50’s in Bedfordshire.

Tel 01234 360510 www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

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

Tel 01234 838771 www.bedsrcc.org.uk

BEDFORDSHIRE WELLBEING SERVICE Offers a range of free and confidential talking therapies and specialist support to help you feel better.

Tel 01234 880400 www.bedfordshirewellbeingservice.nhs.uk

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

Tel 01234 316801 www.bedfordwomenscentre.org.uk

BOLD

Tel 01234 350704 www.autismbedfordshire.net

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

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

Tel 01234 352899 www.bo4ld.org.uk

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

Tel 0300 111 1919 www.carersinbeds.org.uk

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

Tel 01234 352 015 www.bedforddaycarehospice.org.uk

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

CHUMS Mental health and emotional wellbeing service for children and young people 01525 863924 www.chumscharity.org

CITIZENS ADVICE

MINDBLMK

An independent charitable organisation that helps people resolve their problems by providing information and advice.

Supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.

Tel 01234 867944 www.bedfordcab.org.uk

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

Tel 01234 354366 www.cvsbeds.org.uk

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

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

Tel 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com

FACES (FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S EARLY-HELP SERVICES) local independent charity offering practical and emotional support to families under stress.

01234 270601 www.facesbedford.org

OPEN DOOR Charity providing FREE and confidential counselling to young people aged 13 – 25.

Tel 01234 360388 www.bedfordopendoor.org.uk

ROAD VICTIMS TRUST FAMILIES FIRST BEDFORDSHIRE 01234 341977 www.familiesfirstbedfordshire.org.uk

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

Tel 01234 843345 www.rvtrust.org.uk

FRIENDS FOR LIFE A local charity working to address the social isolation of residents in Bedford’s care homes

Tel 07460 575410 www.friendsforlifebedford.org.uk

MEN AS VICTIMS Group support is provided for men who have experienced domestic abuse in a safe, therapeutic environment. This service is for male victims living in Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire or Luton.

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

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

Tel 07798 762 808

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

Tel 01767 642412 | www.sueryder.org

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

Provides an all age careers advice and employment support service for people that live in and around Bedford.

Tel 01234 223510 www.bedfordjobshub.co.uk

Tel 07973 859940 www.bedfordmencap.org.uk 37

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