Beds Local Magazine January 2016 by BedsLocal

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January 2016 Issue 34

COMPETITIONS Win a CACI Ultimate Anti-Ageing Facial worth £65 with Keep Beautiful £25 Crossword Prize Cinema Tickets WHAT’S ON GUIDE Your essential guide to What’s On in your area CHARITY King’s Arms Project Bedford Soup Kitchen Beanstalk

20,000

vered copies deli d the an rd in Bedfo g surroundin villages

12 20 38 40 4 Contents

King’s Arms Project...................................................................4

Editorial

Council News..............................................................................6

Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Susan BrookesMorris, Alistair Burt, Bartlett Trees, Tamara Glanville, Louise Addison, Sarah Davey, Jeannine Carroll, Bedford Borough Council, Guy Bolton, Nigel Rudgard, Trevor Stewart and Simon White.

Consumer – Knowing When to go to court!...................8 MP Article – UN Day of Disability......................................10 Bedford Soup Kitchen .......................................................... 12 How Can We Protect Ourselves Against Fraud?........ 14 Facebook – Strategy For Everyone................................22

Editorial Director

Keep Beautiful Competition................................................25

Sue Metcalf – 01234 708941 sue@bedslocalmag.co.uk

Quit For Them But Quit With Us........................................26

Advertising Director

Ace Fire Security......................................................................... 29

Christa Hallam – 07827 015170 christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk

What’s On.................................................................................... 31

Design and Artwork

Recycle your Christmas Tree..............................................35

Doug Dawson Creative Ltd www.dougdawson.co.uk

Beanstalk...................................................................................38 Mark Rutherford.......................................................................39 Resolve Yourself......................................................................40 Film Review...............................................................................42 Book Review............................................................................. 43 Cinema Competition.............................................................. 44 Prize Crossword......................................................................48 Gardening Resolutions.........................................................50 Bartlett Trees.............................................................................52 Big Garden Birdwatch...........................................................54 Bedford Blues.......................................................................... 57 Bedford Town FC....................................................................59 Directory.....................................................................................60

Publishing and Marketing Local Media Publishing Ltd Tel: 01234 708941

Beds Local Magazine @bedslocalmag 20,000 copies delivered to the following areas: Biddenham, Brickhill, Bromham, Castle Road (Shops), Clapham, Cople, Cranbourne Gardens, Goldington, Great Barford, Great Denham, Kempston, Kempston West End, Milton Ernest, Oakley, Pavenham, Putnoe, Stagsden, Stevington, Willington and Wootton.

(We also have over 150 distribution points, including pubs, garages, most shops, post offices and Superstores)

Disclaimer All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Local

Media Publishing Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of the publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

Read us online at www.bedslocalmag.co.uk

CHARITY

King’s Arms help Bedford’s homeless into employment

ince 1989, King’s Arms Project has been serving the homeless population in Bedford, giving men and women access to the accommodation, community, and opportunities they deserve. We partner with people at all stages of their journey out of homelessness through services such as our Rough Sleeper Outreach, Friday Night Meeting, Night-shelter, Barton House Hostel and Moveon Housing. These services provide over 250 meals and beds every week. At King’s Arms Project, we believe there is no such thing as a hopeless case as we aim to support and empower people to take the necessary steps to move their lives forward. Based at King’s House on Ampthill Road, King’s Arms Project has seen incredible success in all areas of service this year, but particularly in the newly developed Pathways to Employment programme. The programme, consisting of skills-based courses, holistic mentoring, and voluntary work placements, enables clients to live

independently and maintain employment, which is crucial to breaking the cycle of homelessness. Through partnerships with local businesses, such as Ground Floor Coffee Shop and Grace Mechanics, over 50% of the clients in the programme have gained paid employment in the past year. A previous client and current employer with the Pathways to Employment programme says, “I was homeless, on drugs and unemployed. I’m now married, with two children, a mortgage and my own business through the help and support of King’s Arms Project. When asked if I would accept a volunteer who had a similar background, I jumped at the chance to give something back. A year later, he too has his own place, and is now employed in my company. Sometimes people just need another chance, even if they’ve already had plenty.” For more information, or to partner with King’s Arms Project by making a donation, please visit our website: kingsarmsproject.org

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COUNCILNEWS purchase its refurbishment is almost complete, restoring the house to a habitable property.

EMPTY HOMES

e would like to highlight the continuing waste of resources and blight on neighbourhoods across the country created by empty homes. Bedford Borough Council has over 1,000 households on the Housing Register waiting for a suitable property. In the borough there are almost 500 properties which have been empty for over a year. The most effective action available to the Council where owners fail to act themselves is compulsory purchase of the property. In 2014, the Council intensified its effort to tackle this problem and allocated nearly £3million to this programme, the great majority of which will be recovered through sales which will be conditional on the property being returned to use. Sixteen compulsory purchases have been started. One property at 26 Edward Road had been empty for 14 years and was in a very poor state. Following the Council’s compulsory

Cllr Colleen Atkins, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Regulatory Services at Bedford Borough Council, said: “The Council is working hard to reduce the number of empty properties in the borough to provide muchneeded homes. I visited one property the Council bought a year ago. It was in a terrible state and it is great to see the transformation that has been achieved by the new owner.” The Council regularly contacts owners of empty properties to discuss their plans and encourage them to bring the property back into use. Where owners of vacant properties are doing nothing and allowing a building to fall into dangerous disrepair, the Council can pursue them and, if necessary, issue a Compulsory Purchase Order. In the last fifteen months this policy has helped reduce the number of homes recorded as empty for over six months from 951 to 781– a reduction of nearly one in five. Individuals and local communities can play an important role by reporting empty homes to the Council so the action can be taken to bring them back into use. All reports received are treated in confidence and investigated by the Housing Strategy Team. Their contact details are: • Barry Garner on 01234 718581 • Melvyn Bower on 01234 718585 Alternatively, contact the Housing Strategy Team via email at housing.strategy@bedford.gov.uk Reports can also be made directly by logging on to the Empty Homes section of the Council’s website www.bedford.gov.uk

Council 6

COUNCILNEWS

IT MAKES SENSE TO HAVE THIS LOG CABIN

edford Borough Council has funded a new sensory log cabin at Southway Nursery School, in Ampthill Road, Bedford, which particularly supports the development of the two year olds and children with additional needs. Executive Head Teacher, at Bedford Nursery Schools Federation, Isabel Davis, said: “This resource has enabled our already outstanding school to become inspirational and we are very grateful for this support.” “Cllr Henry Vann, Portfolio Holder for Education at Bedford Borough Council, said: “We are committed to continuing to invest in education

for all children. Despite government cuts, we are still able to support this outstanding school and this therapy will be life-changing for these children.” If you would like to add your child’s name to Southway Nursery School’s waiting list or you would like to book an appointment to view the nursery, please phone Tina on 01234 266520.

NO-ONE NEED SLEEP ROUGH IN BEDFORD BOROUGH

ollowing a review of homelessness in the borough, Bedford Borough Council has produced a draft Homelessness Strategy for the period 2015 – 2020.

provided on request by the Housing Strategy Team.

The draft strategy is now available for public consultation. To view the draft strategy, visit the Consultations page of Bedford Borough Council’s website at www.bedford.gov.uk

To comment, you can either: • Complete the online form on the Council’s consultation page • Email housing.strategy@bedford.gov.uk • Write to – The Housing Strategy Team, Room 415, Borough Hall, Cauldwell Street, Bedford, MK42 9AP

Paper copies of the draft strategy can be found at your local library, the Borough Council’s Customer Service Centre, in Horne Lane, or

The consultation period is open until Monday 25 January 2016. Comments received will be published, but individual identities will not.

News

CONSUMER

Knowing when to go to court!

hankfully most consumer disputes can be settled through effective and firm dialogue. If not, there are programmes such as mine that offer additional assistance for people who are finding it difficult to resolve their consumer complaint. However, some cases just cannot be resolved, no matter how hard one or both parties try. It is for these cases that the small claims court can be very helpful. This month, I will outline how to use the small claims court system to obtain the best results. Firstly, DO NOT RUSH TO COURT. In my experience, judges often look unfavourably at customers who are seen to take a company to court too quickly. It makes the consumer look unreasonable which never bodes well. Therefore always try as hard as you can to resolve the complaint between yourselves first. Consider the small claims court your last resort and it is essential that you have kept a record of your conversations and correspondence. When you reach the conclusion that (within 6 years of the dispute and for amounts up to £10,000) the company or tradesman is not prepared to resolve the problem, you must write a letter of intention. Make it clear in the letter that you have tried hard to offer them opportunities to resolve the problem and that you would like to offer them one final opportunity. Allow them one month from receipt of the letter to respond, and make it clear that if you do not hear from them, you will lodge papers with the small claims court. Send the letter recorded delivery and ensure they have received it and signed for it. If they still show no interest in resolving the dispute, then you have an important decision to make. Will you go through with your threat of court action or not? If you decide on the former,

you must go into it with your eyes open. You can always lose as well as win, however it may not cost you as much as you may think. The fee is dependent on how much you are suing for, but this will be outlined when you proceed with the action. If you are successful, the defendant will have to pay your costs as well as the amount you are claiming for. It is also worth noting that you do not need a lawyer to take someone to the small claims court. It’s relatively straight forward, and as long as you’ve been reasonable and sensible in your dealings with the company or tradesman, you stand a good chance of getting a favourable judgement. In many cases, mediation is offered as a way of agreeing a course of action. The result of this is not legally binding, and most often I would advise you to proceed with this where offered. It doesn’t prevent you progressing a case to a judge if unsuccessful. However, turning it down can made you look unreasonable. If things go your way, the judge will award in your favour and will request that the defendant pays you a sum of money (either the whole of the amount you’re seeking, or a proportion of it). They will be given instructions as to how to pay it, and if they fail to do so, you can instruct county court bailiffs to recover the money. You can also escalate the case to the high court for a further fee and instruct the high court enforcement officers to chase your money. Taking a company to court can be a daunting prospect, and I would always suggest obtaining advice from your local citizen’s advice bureau who will give you tailor-made advice on your specific case. Good luck!

Jonathan Vernon-Smith not only offers you his consumer advice here but you can listen to The JVS Show tackling your consumer problems every weekday morning from 9am.

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MP COLUMN

UN DAY OF DISABILITY

he UN Day of Disability was marked in Parliament in December with an event launched by a leading disability charity Papworth Trust. I joined Papworth Trust CEO Vicky McDermott to show my support for disabled people in NE Bedfordshire, and across the UK. The Trust produces industry-leading facts and figures about disabled people and the challenges they face and will launch their 2016 figures in early this month.

The UN Day of Disability 2015 encourages people to focus on the theme of inclusion, access, and empowerment for people of all abilities. I was delighted to give my support to this initiative by Papworth Trust and I congratulated them for highlighting the importance of inclusion and empowerment for disabled people. In a previous Government role I had been honoured to be the Minister for Disabled People, and I have worked with disabled people in my constituency and beyond to help them gain access to employment, improve their travel options, access to education and protect their social care services. We have more work to do to close the disability gap and provide equality of opportunity to everyone with a disability so they can live independent lives. I talked to Vicky McDermott, chief executive of Papworth Trust, who told me that the Trust believes that disabled people should be enabled to live independent lives with access to the same opportunities as everyone else. In order for that to happen we have to challenge

the misperceptions that still exist about disabled people. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s absolutely right, and we will continue to champion equality for disabled people and bring about social change. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities has been celebrated since 1992. Other themes from this year include making cities inclusive and accessible for all, improving disability data and statistics, and including persons with invisible disabilities in society and development. This was about one day, but this is ongoing work both in NE Bedfordshire and beyond for all of us, and I hope itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something we can all consider as we go about our work and community life. Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP

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VOLUNTEERING

BEDFORD SOUP KITCHEN to keep warm this winter. So if anyone would like to donate coats, thermal trousers, thermal socks, wholly hats, gloves etc for adults (male and female), please contact us. These should be in excellent to nearly new condition.

Bedford Soup Kitchen will be celebrating its 1st Anniversary, in January 2016. It has served many local individuals and families in crisis, who have been struggling to access food, over the past year.

The team have many more exciting plans for the new year like partnering up with local businesses to expand what it can offer i.e. free haircuts, counselling, gift packs etc. We will be moving to a new venue â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which will soon be confirmed.

The Kitchen is run entirely by volunteers under the charity, Aysha Academy Trust, on the 1st Sat of each month. The winter serving hours are 5-9pm. We would like to provide warm clothing to members of the community who are struggling

Any businesses that are interested in contributing to this invaluable community development project, or if anyone (over 18) is looking to do voluntary work â&#x20AC;&#x201C; please email: bedfordsoupkitchen@gmail.com

AromaClean offer a friendly, reliable & honest domestic cleaning service tailored to your needs Police Checked & Fully Insured

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HOME

HOW CAN WE PROTECT OURSELVES AGAINST FRAUD? These days we are required to use so many PINS and passwords that many people choose something simple to remember, such as their child’s name or date of birth. Fraudsters know this and in their hands such information becomes a valuable tool. But how do they get hold of such information?

research. More surprising, were many of those who would not initially reveal their passwords did so after being bribed with chocolate!

Careless talk How many of us publish personal details on Facebook and other networking sites? We announce our favourite books, films; the names of our children and our pets for all to see.

Proper Passwords The best passwords are a completely random mix of characters and letters. Fraudsters have a hard time guessing them, even when they use dedicated software.

Can you keep a secret? In a research study carried out for the Infosecurity Europe trade show, four out of five subjects questioned happily handed over the user name and password for their work PC to those carrying out the

Gone Phishing NEVER click on links in unsolicited emails purporting to be from your bank or building society. If in doubt phone them first.

Security experts suggest that we use a separate password for each account we possess. But given that most of us have trouble remembering two or three passwords, you can see the problem with this approach. Fortunately, there are password managers available for under £30 which remember your various passwords and PINS but encrypt them to make them useless to anyone else. If you want the very latest in security technology, you can purchase a fingerprint reader for around £100 or an iris scanner for under £300. Most importantly, make sure you keep your PC’s security software updated. And beware people with clipboards offering chocolate! By Louise Addison

Independent Financial Consultant offering a range of protection, mortgage, pension and investment solutions

KIMBOLTON FINANCIAL PLANNING Tel: 07733 114659 Email: gary@kimboltonfp.com 40a High Street, Kimbolton, PE28 0HA

KIMBOLTON FINANCIAL PLANNING IS A TRADING STYLE OF CRIPPS FINANCIAL PLANNING LTD, HAMILTON HOUSE, 111 MARLOWES, HEMEL HEMPSTEAD, HERTS, HP1 1BB CRIPPS FINANCIAL PLANNING LTD. T/A KIMBOLTON FINANCIAL PLANNING IS AN APPOINTED REPRESENTATIVE OF TAVISTOCK FINANCIAL LTD. WHICH IS AUTHORISED AND REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY FCA N O. 563682 REGISTERED OFFICE: THE OLD VICARAGE, 10 CHURCH STREET, RICKMANSWORTH, HERTFORDSHIRE, WD3 1BS REGISTERED IN ENGLAND AND WALES. COMPANY NO. 08854047

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SERVICES

ACE CARSLTD

(01234) 26 1234

PRIVATE HIRE EXECUTIVE TRAVEL CARS & MINIBUS NATIONAL SAME DAY COURIER

AIRPORT TRANSFER MEET & GREET COMFORTABLE POLITE & RELIABLE ‘PEACE OF MIND TRANSPORT’

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“A & A Carpets is a traditional family

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run business that has built it’s excellent reputation by combining it’s values of strong customer service with loyalty, reliability and quality. It’s family influence is easy to see, with the business founded by Alan Morton in 1977. The family business is run by Wayne and Diane Morton and also with the help of Gareth, John & Len who all have over 30 years experience in the flooring trade”

Genuine ü Free estimates ü Free delivery ü Free samples to Off all flooring and underlays borrow/take home with this advert ü Own Professional fitters ü Furniture removal ü Uplifting & disposal of your old flooring ü Remnants, Rugs, Mats ü Binding service

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Opening Times: Mon-Sat 9.00am-5.30pm FREE CAR PARK AT WAREHOUSE OPPOSITE SHOWROOM

* terms & conditions – This voucher can only be used when placing your order and cannot be used after order has been placed or in conjunction with any other special offers, 10% discount will be deducted off carpet, vinyl, laminate & wood flooring only.

FOOD AND DRINK

We would like to wish all our customers, old and new, a very Happy New Year

THE CROWN WILLINGTON FREE HOUSE

REAL ALES, FINE WINE SERVING TRADITIONAL HOMEMADE FOOD FRESHLY PREPARED TO ORDER KIDS MEALS £6.95 INC DRINK & ICE CREAM SUNDAY ROASTS FROM £10.95

FULL MENU ON FACEBOOK: THE CROWN WILLINGTON WWW.THECROWNWILLINGTON.COM

TUESDAY NIGHT IS STEAK NIGHT

Two 10oz Sirloin steaks with a bottle of house wine £25.95

WEDNESDAY IS ITALIAN NIGHT

Ever changing Italian menu – two meals plus a bottle of house wine £22.95 FOOD SERVED TUES-SAT 12.00-3.00 & 6.00-9.00 SUN 12.00-4.00 RESERVATIONS TAKEN TEL 01234 831024 ENCLOSED PLAY AREA 5 MINUTE WALK FROM THE GREAT RIVER OUSE 17 STATION ROAD, WILLINGTON, BEDS MK44 3QH

An ew leaf

Aiming for a healthy start to 2016? Whether it lasts a day or a month, we’ve got your New Year diet covered, from superfood salads to non-alcoholic beers.

www.coachousepotton.co.uk

01767 260221 TCH Jan16 VA.indd 1

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FOOD AND DRINK

Authentic Chinese & Thai Cuisine

Bedford & Kempstonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Chinese & Thai Restaurant Open 7 days a week (including Bank Holidays)

Take-away Service Delivery and collection available

01234 843210

All menu options and opening times can be viewed on our website For party bookings please call Mr Lin (Restaurant Manager)

www.the-elephant.co.uk

118-120 Bedford Road, Kempston, Beds MK42 8BG

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TECHNOLOGY

FACEBOOK – STRATEGY FOR EVERYONE In a world where the digital age is infiltrating, even the most stubborn of technophobes can no longer ignore the changing landscape. Over the coming months I shall be sharing some tips and hidden secrets of this misunderstood and often overwhelming new media. So why do we use Social Media? We have entered into a new era for relationships, it all started for me with ‘Friends Reunited’ and yes it’s still running. Facebook took this baton on and has 1.4 billion users and growing. We are now finding it easier to connect with people we have just met and see what friends and family are doing. With Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and new boy on the block Periscope we can communicate in real time pictures, chats and stories. This is where you need to be savvy, why? Remember this when a post ‘gets your goat’, breathe, stretch and make a cup of tea. Whatever you do don’t bang the message on your keyboard as if you were pressing the words into the skin of your nemesis keyboard warrior.

STOP…. don’t press ‘post’! Once it’s done it’s live and can never be retrieved. You think its ok I’ll Delete it? Nope it’s already gone to all your contacts and public. Tip of the week… Make two accounts, one for family (only the ones close) your loved ones and friends. In this account, a picture of you on a night out can be shared without repercussions, you’ll not think twice about sharing holiday pictures. The security is locked down tightly and no one outside your direct connection can see your posts. The second account is vetted to acquaintances, people from work and anyone you might like to connect to. If a potential business partner or profiler looks through your online footprint, there are no skeletons hidden in the cupboard. Harvey Tait Momentis International

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SERVICES

• Wood Burning Stoves • Multi Fuel Stoves • Chimney Lining • Twin Wall Flue Systems • Installation and Supply • Fireplace Renovations • Stove Accessories • Trade sales welcome

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday – 10am – 5pm Other Days/Out of hours by prior arrangement

Unit 2 Home Farm Court, The Street, Diddington, St Neots, PE19 5XT info@cromwellstoves.co.uk 01480 812281 | 07786 854946

www.cromwellstoves.co.uk

Refresh Your Tired Kitchen!

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20% 30/07/2015 OFF * This month

Transform your tired kitchen in just a few days from start to finish just by changing the doors and worktops. Less hassle, less time, less cost… • Huge choice of door styles and colours in any size. Before • Worktops, Appliances, Sinks and Taps to complete your kitchen. • Installed quickly and cleanly by our own local professional fitters. • We also do Full Kitchens, Bedroom Wardrobes, Utility Rooms & Studies. • 50% deposit balance on completion

Call Mark or Riana for a free estimate

01234 819173 Visit our Showroom: 73 High Street, Kempston, MK42 7BT

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17:31

SERVICES

SINGER SEWING CENTRE Graham and the team would like to welcome you to the Singer Sewing Centre.

Come and discover our large range of textiles and craft supplies.

Haberdashery – Sewing Machines – Fabrics – Wool Opening times: 9am – 5pm Monday – Saturday

01234 350 186 2a Lurke St, Bedford, MK40 3HY

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SERVICES

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Bedford Town Centre Bedford Sixth Form Trinity Chapel Bromham Road, Bedford, MK40 2BS

Saturdays 8.30am, 10.30am & 12.30pm Tel: Karen 07841 075100

How important is your health to you? Find out how healthy you really are and learn how to prevent life-limiting conditions with a Soza Health Screen

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off all health screens To book, call

01234 840089

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HEALTH & BEAUTY treatments lift the face by toning facial muscles, smoothing away fine lines and wrinkles and preventing sagging skin. CACI achieves visible face lift results, helping to tighten sagging muscles and skin, and smoothing away fine lines and wrinkles. The CACI programme consists of a course of weekly treatments, followed by a monthly maintenance session.

The award winning CACI (Computer Aided Cosmetology Instrument) has gained the reputation as the finest micro current machine available. Backed by over twenty years of research, CACI is the best known system within the beauty industry, and is considered to be the most advanced treatment system of its kind.Treatment results are often so dramatic that CACI has become known as “The non-surgical face lift”. By utilising a unique combination of specific waveforms and frequencies that work in harmony with the body’s own bio-electrical field, CACI transmits tiny electrical impulses and signals that have been documented to stimulate muscle tone and enhance skin tissue. A CACI non-surgical face lift is an electronic beauty treatment using a CACI machine. CACI

CACI has attracted a unique celebrity following, making it the most publicised beauty treatment in the industry’s history. CACI clients include famous faces from the world of show business, music, media and royalty. Offering, for the first time, a serious alternative to surgery in an increasingly appearance conscious world.

COMPETITION Win a CACI ultimate anti-aging facial treatment worth £65. Just answer this question.

What does CACI stand for? Please send your answers to Beds Local Beauty Competition, 6 Brooklands Road, Riseley, Beds MK44 1ee or email sue@bedslocalmag.co.uk by 10th January 2016

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linda@keepbeautiful.co.uk treatm below ents 01234 210798 this advewith rt 07983 330043 CACI Non Surgical Facelift – 1 hour £40 Course of 10 – £360 (tenth one free) The CACI Non Surgical facelift is an advanced, non invasive facial with twenty years medical research behind it. The treatment can deliver visible results without the need for surgery. Tiny electrical impulses will lift and tone the facial muscles, whilst improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. CACI Crystal Free Microdermabrasion/ £40 Booster Facial – 45 mins This facial combines crystal free microdermabrasion with LED light therapy. It will

exfoliate the skin using a unique technology, to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. Electrical stimulation will target lines and wrinkles, providing a non invasive alternative to collagen injections, as well as healing the skin and triggering tissue repair. Ultimate Anti-Ageing £65 Facial – 90 mins The Ultimate Anti-Ageing treatment is an advanced facial which focuses on all your anti-ageing concerns. The Ultimate procedure incorporates muscle lifting and toning, microdermabrasion, LED light therapy, plumping of fine lines and wrinkles and a hydrating gel mask to rejuvenate and brighten the skin.

Gift vouchers available to purchase online at www.keepbeautiful.co.uk To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk

HEALTH & BEAUTY

QUIT FOR THEM BUT QUIT WITH US! Your 4 x more likely to quit if you quit with Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service

If you or someone you know is looking to quit smoking, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to help! Our friendly, specialist advisors offer free advice and support across Bedfordshire. Thousands of people have quit for good with our help and studies have shown that you are up to four times more likely to quit if you use a combination of stop smoking medication and specialist support from your local Stop Smoking Service! Stopping smoking is the single most important thing you can do to improve your health. Our specialist, professional, Stop Smoking Advisors can help when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready with confidential support, advice and replacement therapies. We run clinics across Bedfordshire and offer one to one appointments at a range of times to

suit you, including evenings. If you are unable to make it to one of our clinics we provide alternative options including online and telephone support. We also offer home visits for those who are pregnant or housebound. Quitting smoking is difficult for most people, but with treatment and support the likelihood of success is four times greater. If you are ready to make that next step you can refer yourself online www.smokefreebedfordshire.co.uk or call us on 0800 013 0553. One of the team will be able to make an appointment as soon as possible.

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Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service supporting you every step of the way Call 0800 013 0553 or search online for Smokefree Bedfordshire

SERVICES

BROMHAM PAINTING & DECORATING

& HOME IMPROVEMENTS FULL PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FULLY INSURED FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATIONS ON REQUEST NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR EXTERNAL WORK CONTACT US ON 01234 822651 07748 032051

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SERVICES

ACE FIRE SECURITY – 25 YEARS AND GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Ace Fire & Security specialise in security for both the domestic and commercial markets, which include installation and maintenance of intruder alarm systems, CCTV, access control and fire alarm protection systems. “Our commitment to outstanding service coupled with our technical expertise ensuring the right system is fitted for the property or business is what makes us different.” Says Founder and Director Kevin Burraway. In addition to the Head Office in Bedford, the company has opened regional offices in London, Cambridge and Milton Keynes, with the intention of growing a network across the UK to provide unparalleled levels of service. Recent projects include the installation of large CCTV system in Westminster Cathedral,

a bespoke security system at Wood Green Animal Shelter and a comprehensive state of the art surveillance installation for Bedford Borough Council and to include a varied range of domestic systems. To find out more about Ace Fire & Security visit www.acesecurity.co.uk or call 0800 294 6550

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Your essential guide to activities, clubs, events and lots more in your area. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something for everyone! If you would like to promote an event in the February issue please email whatson@bedslocalmag.co.uk by Friday 8th January

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WHAT’SON

ARTS/CULTURE & TALKS Stevington Cinema Club 7th January:Chicago (12A)7.00pm Screening starting 7.30 p.m. prompt Stevington Cinema Club screens a variety of films from black and white classics to the latest blockbusters. Licensed bar selling a selection of wines, beers and soft drinks, also hot drinks, snacks and ice creams available at every screening. Please visit www.stevingtoncinemaclub. uk to purchase tickets and view our future programme of events. Stevington Village Hall, Court Lane, Stevington, MK43 7QT . Bedford Art Society Meeting Friday 8th January 2016 7.15 for 7.30 start Tony Mackay, (artist and architect), talks on “The Sources and Content of Recent Paintings” Entry is free for members, £5 for visitors. Contact Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www. bedsartsociety.co.uk for information. Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford, MK41 8EB Bedford Architectural, Archaeological, & Local History Society Wednesday 13th January 7.30 “Ancient Life in Kempston Rural – Bronze Age, Romans, & The Bury” Mike Luke (Albion Archaeology) Putnoe Heights Church & Community Centre Bedford MK41 8EB Non-members welcome – £2-00 entry Enquiries (01234) 365095 www.baalhs.org.uk The Wildlife Trust – Bedford Local Group Wednesday 13th January 7.30pm An illustrated talk on ‘Harrold Odell Country Park’ given by Janet Munro. All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions appreciated. Priory Park Visitor Centre Further details www.wildlifebcn.org or 01234 266057 The Royal British Legion WW1 Commemorative Lecture Series Monday 25th January at 7.30pm – Harpur Suite Bedford ‘Gallipoli 1915 – Muddle and Myths’ – George SutherlandTickets £5, £4 Concessions from the Corn Exchange. Free entry for U18’s and F/T students

CHARITY A Different Brew ‘A Cafe with a difference’Open Monday to Friday 10am-4.30pm Staffed by adults with learning difficulties working both front and back of house A Different Brew is a project of Beds Garden Carers (BGC) Find us on Facebook Beds Garden Carers -Learning Disabilities Charity

Hearts in Beds Cardiac Support Group Tuesday January 5th 7pm – 9.30pm Vinney Jones Night & Resuscitation Machine Demo A self-help group started by people with heart problems to help others in the Bedford Hospital catchment area with the same problem ; to provide support and information. Meetings on the first Tuesday evening of the month Priory Methodist Church, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ Tuesday February 2nd Gunns Bakery Demo and Talk Tuesday March 1st Wickerwork & Disposal Tel. Mr Ted Jolliffe 01234 327791 for more information

BLOOD DONOR SESSIONS Kempston – The Centenary Hall 10th January 2016 9:30-12:30 and 14:00-16:00 104 Bedford Road, Kempston, BedfordMK42 8BG Bedford – Kings House 12th January 2016 12:30-15:30 and 17:00-19:15 Kings Arm Church, 245 Ampthill Road, Bedford, Beds. MK42 9AZ Wilstead – Wilstead Village Hall 29th January 2016 13:00-15:30 and 17:00-19:15 Cotton End Road, Wilstead, Bedford MK45 3BX

CLASSES, CLUBS & ACTIVITIES RSPB – Big Garden Birdwatch Saturday 30th – Sunday 31st January Sign up for your free Big Garden Birdwatch 2016 pa www.rspb.org.uk Flower School Thursday evenings 5pm – 7pm April Flowers, 90 High Street, Clapham Various arrangements covered with a demo followed by the opportunity for students to complete the same design which they can take home. Booking essential Call Amy on 01234 343335 / 07794 827137 Dressmaking Classes with Linda Radley Every Thursday: 10am-4pm Tudor Rose Patchwork, Oakley Learn to sew your own outfits or sew for children, family and friends! You can be a beginner looking for some casual sewing or an intermediate seamstress looking to brush up on your skills; all abilities are catered for. Linda will help you find patterns to suit your ability and style; she will then guide you through the project and learn the tricks of the trade as you go. You can join on any Thursday and have a relaxed day of sewing while working on any dressmaking project you like. £21.40 for a full day. Half Days are available.Call to book: 01234 824983 www.tudorrosepatchwork.co.uk

WHAT’SON

Linedancing Starts Monday 11th January 7.30pm–8.30pm Absolute+Beginners/Improvers Priory Methodist Church Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ Linedancing Thursday 14th January 700pm–8.00pm Absolute+Beginners/Improvers 1st Class Free For New People Starting An Absolute+Beginners/Improvers Class 8.00pm – 10pm Improvers /Intermediate Kempston Hammers Club High Street Kempston MK42 7BN http://dancingstars.comli.com (07969847553) P.M Bridge Group First and third Thursdays of each month 11am to 2.45pm Friendly duplicate bridge Good standard buffet lunch £6 including lunch, tea or coffee. Renhold Village Hall. Tel Ann on 01234 212066 Bedford MG Owners Club Third Tuesday every month at 8pm We welcome new members and have various activities and runs etc. throughout the year. In addition we also meet from April to September on the first Tuesday at a location that is changed monthly. The Anchor Gt Barford MK44 3LF Contacts are Chris Waters 01234 401834 or email bmgoc@ talktalk.netbmgoc@talktalk.net Marston Moretaine Computer Club Every Tuesday from 8pm to 10pm New Members and Guests very welcome. We deal with all aspects of computer hardware and software with presentations and discussions every week. Marston Moretaine Social Club Station Road, Marston Moretaine Email : rog.baynes@ntlworld.com Phone 01234 308878 www.bedfordunitedfc.co.uk .

COMMUNITY EVENTS Bedfordshire County Federation of Women’s Institutes Tuesday January 12th9.30 to 11.30am Wootton Village Hall A meeting to be held as above ,to consider the establishment of a new WI, to be held on a Tuesday morning in the Village Hall. Join us for coffee and learn more about this inspiring Institution for Ladies of all ages. Burns Night Supper – Odell Village Hall Saturday 30th January Traditional haggis supper and dessert and a dram of whiskey £13 Scottish dancing. Licensed bar & Raffle. All proceeds to Odell Village Hall. Contact Leslie Knowles 01234 721860

MARKETS Bedford Farmers Market Second and fourth Thursday of very month 8.30am-3.00pm Harpur Square, Bedford, MK40 1SL Local producers market with a range of fresh locally produced products Tel: 01234 221890

MUSIC, FESTIVALS & DANCE Bedford Organ and Keyboard Club Wednesday 13th January 2.00 – 4.30 pm AFTERNOON Social/Dance with JOHN LEE The Addison Centre, Kempston Members £3.00 Non-Members £5 Pay at door All enquiries etc Tel: 01234 344423 www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/bedford Clare College Choir Thursday 14 January, 7.45pm Music for Epiphany Tickets: £18, Conc £16, Student (18-25) £5, Under 18 £2, available on the door or from 01234 261811 Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford, MK40 3EU www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk

SPORTS CLUBS Dancemates Changing lives with steps in the right direction. A special dance club for children over 5 years developing life skills using social Ballroom dancing Merengue, Foxtrot, Tango, Swing Tuesdays 4.45 pm and Saturdays, 9.15 am £4 per child £7 for two children The Court, 281-285 Bedford Road Kempston Call/text 07785 992246 www.dancemates-uk.co.uk dancematesuk@gmail.com Bedford Girls and Ladies FC We are a voluntary sports club for girls age 8 and upwards. If you’d like to find out more info please call Jill on 01234 772668 or 07850540631. Mander Badminton Club Friendly badminton club looking for new members of a reasonable standard Every Tuesday evening 7-9pm at Bedford Modern School Sports Hall Visitors £5 per session – 1st Session free Contact Anita Watson Tel: 01234 930047 Bedford Thunder Basketball club Mixed gender sessions Age 10-13 3.00-4.30 every Saturday Age 14-16 4.30-6.00 every Saturday Men’s club 7.35-9.45 every Tuesday All session in Bedford Academy, for further information contact bedfordthunder@outlook.com or visit our website www.bedfordthunder.com

WHAT’SON

Mowsbury Park Bowling Club Come and try lawn bowls FOR FREE on our Open Day, Sunday 17th May from 2pm – 5pm. Alternatively, any Wednesday or Friday from 2pm – 4.30 pm. Your first session is FREE! No equipment needed, just a pair of flat shoes. Entrance is via Wentworth Drive. Ample Parking. For further information please contact Anne Haynes on Bedford 211828.

Shefford & Sandy Hockey Club Sandy Sports Centre Astro, Engayne ave, Sandy. SG19 1BL Tuesdays 6.30-7.30pm – Juniors (5 to 14 years old) Tuesdays 7.30-8.30pm – Adults Whether you are new to the sport or returning after a break S&SHC welcome you to our club training nights. For more info please call Tessa on 07787 970810 www.pitchero.com/clubs/ sheffordandsandyhockeyclub/

Bedford Borough Bowling Club Bedford Borough Bowling Club established over 100 years are now enrolling new members. and forming a junior section. Probably the most prestigious bowling club in the Bedford area with both indoor and outdoor bowling greens. We offer FREE tuition from qualified instructors, with all equipment provided, we just ask you to wear flat shoes. Afterwards, you can obtain a cool drink or a coffee from the bar and relax in the comfortable lounge area. There are also restaurant facilities for lunch time meals. So give it a try, bring the family all are welcome. Free parking. Check our web site www.boroughbowlin.org.uk or telephone 01234 340736 for more details,

Bedford FC Mini Soccer Club Every Saturday at Goldington Academy 10.30am till 12.15pm. Open to boys and girls aged between 4 and 10. Cost per child £3.00 and £5 for two children. Our sole aim is to provide children of all abilities with a unique footballing experience, developing their physical, social and communication skills in a safe environment. Full usage of toilet and changing facilities and plenty of car parking spaces. www. bedfordfcminisoccer.com.

Wootton Badminton Club Wootton Upper School, Hall End, Wootton, Beds, MK43 9HT Thursdays from 7.00pm to 10.00pm This friendly club welcomes anyone who does or has played badminton, sorry no absolute beginners. Contact: Freda Dunlop 01234 270638 Email: garry.freda@btinternet.com www:woottonbadmintonclub.weebly.com Bedford mighty eagles dodgeball team We are a club that plays at a high level but would love anyone from any sporting ability and background to come down and give it a go as long as you are 15 and above. We have a men’s and women’s squad. It is great fun and a fantastic way to keep fit. We train on Tuesday’s 8-9 at: Hastingsbury school, Hill rise, Bedford, Mk42 7EB First training session is FREE and then each session is only £3 after that Bedford United Football Club Bedford United is a non-profit making football club holding the FA Charter Standard status and providing a fun, friendly, safe and structured environment to learn, play and enjoy football. We have an established range of teams from our Academy right through to our Adults so if you’re interested in playing, coaching or helping out visit us at www.bedfordunitedfc.co.uk. Cyclists Touring Club, Bedfordshire. We meet on a regular basis and have rides to various places, and cater for all abilities. We ride as a group for the pleasure of riding and socialising, nobody gets left behind ! See website ctcbedfordshire.co.uk for details of our forthcoming rides, or ring 01234 219148 for further information.

Social Table Tennis Mon/Tue 7.30pm-10.00pm Sports Hall, Lincroft School, Oakley All Ages Welcome. Just Turn Up £4 per player per session Bats Available, Free Hire Coaching Available Info: Call John 07921 093199 Bedford Community Table Tennis Club Bedford Academy Wednesdays 7.30 – 9.30pm: 16 years old plus, but Juniors can attend with a parent/guardian Open every week. Michael Fox, 07837 975267, chair.bedfordcttc@gmail.com, www.bedfordcttc.weebly.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/bedfordcttc Twitter: www.twitter.com/BedfordCTTC ‘Walking Football’ the latest version of the beautiful game Established in Bedford for over 3 years – all ages welcome Monday nights from 11th January. Spaces available on our 7-8pm session. Gordon Fields pitches bottom of Brickhill Drive. For more information email: info@ walkingfootballleagues.co.uk

HAD A REAL TREE THIS CHRISTMAS? DON’T FORGET YOU CAN RECYCLE IT! Bedford Borough Council is encouraging residents to recycle their real Christmas trees by, once again, running the popular New Year Christmas tree recycling service. Residents can drop their real trees off at any of the eight sites across the borough from 2nd - 10th January 2016. The trees should have all decorations removed and will be taken away to be made into compost. The sites are: • Hillgrounds Road, Kempston. Opposite the shops near Hartwell Drive • Jubilee Park, opposite North Lodge, Canvin Way • Milton Ernest Garden Centre, Radwell Road off the A6 • Mowsbury Park Car Park, Kimbolton Road • Podington Garden Centre, High Street, Podington • Roxton Garden Centre, Bedford Road, Roxton • Seasons Garden Centre, A6 at Wilstead • Bedford Household Waste Recycling Centre, Barkers Lane, Bedford Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: “Last year we collected over 10 tonnes of Christmas trees for composting. The Christmas tree recycling service offers residents a really easy and sustainable way of disposing of real trees, and we hope the service proves popular again this year.” After the 10th January 2016, residents can still use the Household Waste Recycling Centre, at Barkers Lane, to recycle their trees. Alternatively, trees can be cut into smaller pieces and placed in the green lidded garden waste bin.

Would you like to raise your profile and gain more business locally? Beds Local Magazine can help you do just that! With a distribution of 20,000 copies across Bedford and it’s surrounding villages, start your New Year off with a bang and find out how we can help you. Call Christa on Tel 01234 962929 / 07827 015170 christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk or Sue on Tel 01234 708941 sue@bedslocalmag.co.uk

We would like to wish all of our readers and customers old and new a very Happy and Prosperous New Year!

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Beauchamp Middle School www.beauchampschool.co.uk

Hawk Drive ● Bedford 01234 300900

With the Challenger Trust and Contour Education Services all pupils were provided with outdoor learning experiences. All pupils had the opportunity of taking part in bushcraft activities and learnt new skills, most of which cannot be experienced in the classroom.

Building a Shelter Life Saving Skills

Knot Skills Teamwork Activities

Making a Fire First Aid

Pupil voice... “I learnt to work better as a team, no matter who I worked with.” “I learnt to always listen to each other, like people’s ideas, and never leave someone out.”

Much more than a great time in camp!

 Improvement of key skills in communication, cooperation and

negotiation

 Self-confidence, character building and personal, social and

emotional development

 Trying new things and welcoming challenge  Independence, managing risks and staying safe  Learning in a natural environment raises educational

standards

Book a personal school tour and discover what Beauchamp can offer your child by emailing beauchamp@beauchampschool.co.uk

SERVICES VOLUNTEERING

MAKE VOLUNTEERING WITH BEANSTALK YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION! Beanstalk charity works with primary schools in Bedfordshire, supporting children that are falling behind with their reading. The charity is now looking for more volunteer reading helpers to go into local primary schools to provide regular one-on-one reading support. Why we need you Last year over 60,000 children across England left primary school unable to read to the expected level. Being unable to read well can have severe consequences on a child’s future, causing them to fall behind in their education, suffer from a lack of self-confidence and have limited employment prospects. As a reading helper you will play a vital role in nurturing children to be the best they can be. Confidence and self-esteem will be developed through fun, literacy-based activities, raising both reading attainment and future aspirations.

How it works • Your placement will be in a school within 5 miles of your home or work, supporting children between 5 and 11 years of age. • You would need to commit to volunteering for a couple of hours during the school day- on regular days- twice a week during term time. • Our evidence shows that regular, consistent support makes the biggest difference. Most of our volunteers stay with us for a year supporting the same three children. If you can spare a few hours each week and would like to encourage the next generation of readers get in touch today! Call 01604 720969 for more information about volunteering or sign up online at www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/register-now

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Rutherford Review: National Winners of the Education and Business Partnership Award 2015 Mark Rutherford School is the first winner of the British Chambers of Commerce national award for Education and Business Partnership.

programme has led to improvements in student achievement and helped students to see the opportunities available to them posteducation.

The judges praised the School for its ‘Mark Rutherford Business Partnership’ programme, which comprises 160 local businesses and community organisations, and focuses on supporting the successful transition of young people from education to the world of work. A number of our Business Partners will be supporting our OCC4U (Options, Choices, Careers for You) evening on Thursday 21st January 2016

Nora Senior, President of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

In addition, the School has developed a Business Mentor Programme, which pairs students with local business mentors. This

Options Choices Careers Evening

“Bridging the gap between the worlds of education and work is vital for empowering tomorrow’s workforce with the skills that businesses need. Mark Rutherford School proves that with hard work and strategic vision, business and education partnerships can be a success.” To find out more about joining our Business Partnership, or having a stand at the OCC4U evening please contact Kath Unwin on kath.unwin@mrus.co.uk

MARK RUTHERFORD SCHOOL

Thursday 21st January 2016 5.00 – 6.30 pm Year 9 into Year 10 with a presentation at 5.00 pm 7.00 – 8.30 pm Year 11,12,13 – Next Steps – with presentations from 7.00 pm Are you thinking about your next steps? Do you want to look at different options for A Levels or BTEC Level 3 study? Come and check out our information evening to see what we can offer you. There will be: • Subject stands for GCSE, AS, A Level and BTEC courses • Business stands for possible pathways beyond school • Information on how to become part of our very successful Sixth Form Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK41 8PX Tel: 01234 290200 • Email: mark.rutherford@mrus.co.uk • Web: www.markrutherford.beds.sch.uk

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LIFESTYLE

RESOLVE YOURSELF! H

appy New Year Folks! It’s that time of year again when we start to feel ashamed of our rapidly deteriorating commitment to the New Year’s Resolutions that we promised ourselves we would stick to, religiously, for the whole of the year. It doesn’t take long for them to become forgotten for another twelve months, and for another year, nothing changes… Why? The famous author Douglas Adams (He of Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy fame) once put forward a theory that we simply forget what the New Year’s Resolutions were, or more accurately, where we put the list that they were written on in the first place. This is because a precise set of conditions need to apply for the list to be drafted in the first place. After so much indulgence through Christmas and having spent time lounging around watching TV and maybe having a drink or two, we come to the decision that we need to improve ourselves over the coming months and become consumed with an overwhelming need to write them all down – so that we won’t forget. At this point we will fish around for something to write on, inevitably recreating the conditions of the previous lateDecember, before finally pulling out the list from the previous year that we had assumed to be lost forever.

fresh ideas are clouded and begin to change in our minds to account for the old ones. Now you know you have met the exact conditions of the previous year, and will inevitably write it all out (jaded now by last season’s results), fold it up neatly, and immediately tuck it away in the same ‘safe’ place as before. Lost again – and possibly for two years if you are going away for next Christmas. It’s a minefield! The best way to prepare New Year’s Resolutions is to write them in March. Whilst you are completely sober. Some of the ones written during the festive period are pertinent to the time of year anyway. The overindulgence and feasting makes us want to exercise and diet; and the overspending on presents and food makes us want to economise and save. That is another reason for failure.

Now we have a new problem. As we have a head full of good and healthy intentions, we are now faced with reading the old list, and thereby recognising the failings of the previous attempt; immediately our new and

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LIFESTYLE As you lost the list last year, you didn’t plan and economise for this Christmas, did you? By implication you then used your saved resources and credit card to get through the festivities, so your resolution to scrimp and save is destined to collapse and you will inevitably spend January and February paying back what you have spent! By the time you get to March, saving up is again possible so you have a much better chance at success. It must be no coincidence that the Church’s season for giving things up and improving your lifestyle is at lent, in the run-up to Easter. They must have known that nobody will ever manage to give anything up just after Christmas. People are skint. The New Year hangover sufferers are in need of a hair-of-the-dog drink to aid their recovery, and the smokers need a cigarette whilst they ponder the shopping list to see what they can do without for a few weeks. The average gym will make a fortune in new memberships, paid for out of well-intentioned Christmas gift money, and these people suffer the worst collapse of all. First they overwork in their first session – miss the second one because they are still aching – miss the third one as they are embarrassed about missing the second – and never go back. If this happens to you, go back in March! Tell them you want to be fit and healthy for the summer and this is the time. Nobody wants to trudge to the gymnasium in the snow and cold winds of February, so don’t even try. March is a far better month! So, if you are already wavering and struggling with the new regime, do not be dismayed. Put this article away in an envelope, write “open in March” on the front, tuck it in your letter rack, drawer, kitchen shelf, or wherever you keep your letters (but not your usual New Years resolutions, of course) and just enjoy the winter season as best as you can. Springtime is a far better part of the year to forego some of the pleasures of life, as there is so much more to do. Now go and enjoy 2016 properly! Guy Bolton

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M L I F REVIEW The Good Dinosaur Seeing the name Pixar is probably the closest you can get to being certain that the film you are about to see is going to be one that is not only suitable for all the family but will also be one that all of you, no matter what your ages, will find something to laugh at. Pixar have mastered the art of making the best family friendly movies that will entertain everyone watching. Jokes will be aimed at kids and adults alike without ruining the charm of the story they are telling. The Good Dinosaur is the latest from them and follows hot on the heels of the wonderful â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Inside Outâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and follows the adventures of young Arlo, a dinosaur who is separated from his family when a flood sweeps him up and leaves him a long way from his home. His journey back home, along with a new friend, is the heart of the story. Like all Pixar films this is just a joy to watch. The animation and characterisation are second to none, though we should expect that from them by now, and there is a real warmth to the relationships of the two main characters. This will leave you with your spirits high and a joy in your heart, it is yet another masterpiece from those Pixar guys and gals. Simon White

Bromham Windows & Home Improvements UPVC Windows & Doors, Conservatories, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering All double glazing repairs including:Broken & misty sealed units, hinges, faulty doors and locks, handles and much more.

For a free no obligation quotation call:-

01234 306662 or 07960 109429

Email: nightingale12@ntlworld.com

The Brickhill Book Bug reviews… The Heart Goes Last by Margaret Atwood In her classic novel ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ Margaret Atwood created a terrifying dystopia where fertile women were at the mercy of the ruling elite. In ‘The Heart Goes Last’ she creates another frightening future, where desperate people are willing to give up their freedom for security.

ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS AND BUILDING DESIGN SERVICES Professional and affordable architectural design services provided for all types of private residential building projects with all necessary council approvals obtained.

For free estimates and advice, contact Jason Dixon on:01767 677540 or 07908 004816 e-mail: JTDixon101@aol.com No VAT payable for design and drawing services on residential projects Jason Dixon, 101 Meadow Road, Great Gransden, Sandy, SG19 3BB.

Stan and Charmaine have lost everything and are living a hand to mouth existence in their car when they see the advert for The Positron Project. The project offers them a whole new life with everything they could ever want, in exchange for spending every other month in prison. At first the arrangement seems to work well, but after a while they both start to become obsessed with the couple that alternates with them and lives in their house while they are locked up every other month. Distracted by their desires, they become drawn into the darker side of the Positron Project. This novel is often disturbing, scary and at some points utterly bizarre. Just how far are people prepared to go to salvage their lives? What happened to the real prisoners? And what exactly has Charmaine been doing in the Medical Administration part of the prison, and will Stan survive finding out…? For more information about books and reading, visit the Virtual Library at www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries. The Book Bug has worked for the library service in Bedfordshire for 20 years. She lives in Brickhill with far too many books!

SERVICES

Self Drive Hire • Contract Rental • Financial Lease Large Fleet of Standard • Refrigerated • Specialised Vehicles

rentxpressltd.co.uk 01234 339008 To advertise please call 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslocalmag.co.uk

SERVICES

FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING NEEDS... Internal & External Decorating Plastering Refurbishments Quality Workmanship A friendly and reliable service

www.cjz-decorating.co.uk Tel: 01234 960304 Mobile: 07929 181619

CJ Advert.indd 1

13/08/2015 09:24

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SERVICES

Specialists in Alarms & CCTV Supply & Install Intruder Alarms Repair & Upgrade Existing Alarms Service & Maintenance Contracts CCTV Installations Security Lighting Digital TV & Aerial Installations All Work Guaranteed & Fully Insured 24/7 Customer Care Service 365 Days a Year YOUR INSURANCE COULD BE AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT HAVE YOUR SECURITY INSTALLED BY A FULLY ACCREDITED INSTALLER CALL NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE

01234 347699 07798 894 948

www.jdeansecurityservices.co.uk

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Prize crossword

ÂŁ25 Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before 10th January 2016. Prize Crossword, Beds Local, 6 Brooklands Road, Riseley, Bedford, MK44 1EE

Name: Address:

Tel: Across 1 Loss of hair (7) 5 Royal male (4) 8 Permit (5) 9 Musical performance (7) 11 Curved structure (4) 12 Noblewoman (8) 15 Backless seat (5) 16 Jack in a pack of cards (5) 19 Contemplate (spiritual) (8) 21 Egyption goddess (4) 23 Small onion (7) 25 Flat-bottomed boat (5) 26 Grasp, clutch (4) 27 Proof of payment (7)

Down 2 Assigned (9) 3 Daybreak (4) 4 Ordinary, unremarkable (6) 5 Ornamental fish (3) 6 Approaches (5) 7 Underwater detection device (5) 10 Slapstick circus performers (6) 13 Listen surreptitiously (9) 14 Mail service (6) 17 Effigy, maybe bronze or marble (6) 18 Benefit, advantage (5) 20 Volatile flammable liquid (5) 22 Adept, capable (4) 24 Chop, clip (3)

Last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner was Nigel Bryant in Riseley

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C&M.pdf

21/01/2015

SERVICES 16:36

& GARDENER CM

BUILDERS LTD General builders with over 30 years experience For your free quotations please contact us on Te: 01234 602 313 Mob: 07511 349 450 Email: chrismgardener@hotmail.com

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GARDENING

THIS MONTH – GARDENING RES I

’m a sucker for resolutions. I make loads every year though I have to admit I break most of them too.

But it’s January and time for a spot of gardening self-improvement. To this end here are my gardening resolutions. 1. I will take a daily walk around my plot and pull out a few weeds as I go. I will not wait until I can’t stick a pin between the dandelions. Let’s face it gardeners are great procrastinators. But by doing a little and often we can keep our plots looking spick and span. 2. I will not leave seed sowing until it’s too late!

This is my personal nemesis. I get carried away by all the glorious seed catalogues, order dozens of packets then pop them in a drawer and forget about them. 3. I will plant all the plants I buy from a nursery as soon as a get them home and definitely before their flowers drop off and they turn up their little green toes. Plants bought from a nursery, especially those in cell pack, are already in less than ideal conditions and letting them dehydrate further will make for a sick, leggy plant more prone to disease. Preparation is the key here. I will make sure I have the correct pots, enough potting

GARDENING

SOLUTIONS compost and the time to spare before I buy. 4. I will clean my gardening tools at the end of each day spent gardening. This is sensible because dirty tools can spread disease. Mild bleach (one part bleach to 10 parts water) or an organic cleaner, which I prefer, will make sure they’re ready for use next time. 5. I will buy another water butt and water my plants faithfully, particularly my pots. Lack of water produces weak root systems. If I know I won’t have the time I’ll invest in an irrigation system. 6. I will start another compost bin. it’s not difficult and will help the environment as I’ll

be able to recycle even more of my waste vegetable matter. There are small drums and bins which will suit even the tiniest spot. 7. I will help wildlife by making sure I provide habitats for birds, bugs and beasties. Any effort I put in will be repaid tenfold. A garden is a little ecosystem. If it functions well there will be natural pest control, pollination and soil conditioning. Those are my resolutions. You may have different ones and that’s fine. I’m sure we’ll break a few along the way but no-one said the path to perfection, particularly gardening perfection was easy. SYDOVL20142Ad_75x106_Layout 1 By Rachel Leverton

16/11/2015 13:35 Page 1

• Garden Design • Landscaping and Garden Restoration • Border Design and Planting Susan Young Dip.Hort.(RHS) Garden Designer and Head Gardener

info@susanyoungdesign.co.uk

Tel: 01234 826430 & 07787 158288

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GARDENING

A TIME TO PLANT Winter is a good time to think about planting new trees in your garden. This can be to replace a tree lost or just to enhance your garden. A new tree can be a great asset to your property as long as the right selection is made and the correct care is taken of the tree during it s early years. Many trees have differing attributes to take into account,

Flowering:

Prunus Shirofugen – Flowering Cherry Makes a small tree with a rounded crown which is rather spreading, mature height 5-10 metres. Foliage is copper coloured when young which contrasts well with its large, double white flowers which finish pink.

Bark Interest:

Betula utilis Jacquemontii – Himalayan Birch Makes a medium sized tree with a mature height of 15-20metres. Bears oval, dark green leaves which turn golden yellow in autumn. Its white bark is accentuated by lenticels lines and peels routinely each year.

Berries:

Sorbus aucuparia Joseph Rock-Mountain Ash Small tree with ascending branches, mature height 5-10metres. Bunches of small white flowers appear in spring and in autumn creamy yellow berries appear when the leaves turn a lovely red. Watering – Water regularly if the weather is dry, normally from April onwards throughout the growing season. A standard 12-14foot high tree needs at least 20litres of water on a weekly basis to encourage good establishment. Mulching – Helps enormously, increases the availability of water & nutrients, and prevents the development of weed growth. Staking – Once established the trees stem will increase in girth, therefore an annual check must be made & the stake/strap adjusted as required. Feeding – Regular feeding with a balanced slow release, water soluble fertiliser to improve root and shoot growth. Improving the trees health and therefore improving resistance from pest and disease issues.

Autumn colour:

Fraxinus angustifolia Raywood – Raywood Ash Medium sized tree with a dense, upright, oval and relatively compact habit. Mature height 10-15 metres. Its dark green leaves turn a wine red in autumn.

For more advice visit: www.bartlett.com or contact Bartlett Tree Experts on 01234 354 673 Visit us on Facebook at Bartlett Tree Experts – Bedford UK

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We’re Bartlett Tree Experts, a 100+ year old tree and shrub care company with global reach and local roots. We protect your property by giving you expert, attentive service, a safety-first record and a range of weather damage services that include: • Emergency Tree Services • Pre-Storm Strategies, Including Pruning and Cabling & Bracing • In-Depth Post-Storm Hazard & Damage Analyses

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GARDENING

BIG GARDEN

BIRDWATCH

t started back in 1979 when the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) invited its junior members to count the number of birds in their gardens over a weekend in winter. The aim was to work out the ten most common birds in the United Kingdom, and thanks to children’s TV programme Blue Peter, thirty four thousand youngsters took part! The Big Garden Birdwatch has taken place every year since, with over half a million people – adults as well as children – regularly taking part. Last year, more than 8.5 million birds were counted, with house sparrows being the most common sighting, followed by starlings, blackbirds, blue tits and wood pigeons. The annual survey has identified that certain species of bird are on the decline (such as house sparrows and starlings) whilst others are on the increase (for example blue tits and wood pigeons). By monitoring trends in

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GARDENING this way, problems can be spotted early and first steps taken to put things right. This year the Big Garden Birdwatch takes place on the weekend of 30th and 31st January. To take part, you need to watch for one hour the birds that land in your garden or local park, record the highest number of each bird species you see at the same time (not over the entire hour, as you may end up counting some birds twice), then report back your findings. For more details on how to get involved, visit http://www.rspb. org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/ discoverandlearn/birdwatch By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

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SERVICES

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Bedford Blues

edford Blues will be hoping to make it a 2016 to remember as they kick off the New Year with three home games in January. New Year’s Day sees the Blues taking on London Scottish in front of the Sky Sports cameras. The game has been moved back slightly to 3.05pm giving everyone an extra five minutes to recover from any ‘over indulgences’ the night before, make their way to Goldington Road and grab a beer or two before the match kicks off. Bedford will then enjoy a free weekend before jetting off to Northern Ireland to face Ulster Ravens in Belfast. The Blues overcame the ‘A’ side 27-18 back in November but know that a trip across the sea will be particularly difficult against a team that dismantled Bristol in the opening round of the competition. The Blues travelled to Belfast in November 2009 and were well beaten 29-3 at Ravenshill but they will be looking for a much closer game as they aim to reach the quarter-finals of the British and Irish Cup. A return to Goldington Road follows with another cup clash, this time against Scarlets Select in the final pool match. The Blues racked up an impressive 35-6 win over the Scarlets in

Carmarthen with James Pritchard, Sam James, Mike Le Bourgeois and Steffan Jones securing the bonus point win for Bedford while Myles Dorrian, Jones and Jake Sharp all added points from the boot on a blustery day in west Wales. The Blues may be in need of a similar victory if they are to progress from the group. The final game of January sees London Welsh, who were in the Premiership last season, making the trip through the Goldington Road gates. Games between the two are normally tenacious affairs with only a few points separating them. This was the case in September when the Exiles, playing back at Old Deer Park, held off a fight back from the Blues, which included a George Perkins brace and a try for the evergreen Paul Tupai, to snatch a 30-24 victory. Mike Rayer’s men will be looking to get one over on their old foes in the battle for a top four finish. Don’t forget that you can order discounted tickets to all of Bedford Blues home matches – starting with London Scottish – by visiting www.bedfordrugby.co.uk and clicking on tickets. Happy New Year to you all – COME ON YOU BLUES!!!

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Bedford Town FC

or many football fans, it is the be all and end all of their life. However, anyone that was at the North Greenford United v Bedford Town game on Saturday 28th November saw football take a backseat as some very distressing events unfolded. With the game due to kick off as usual at 3pm, fans from both sides alerted the referee to a spectator who had collapsed beside the field. After his fall the gentleman was immediately attended to by North Greenfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Football Secretary and Physio Barbara Bivens, supported by committee member Richard Rooney and Bedford Town supporter Paul Reading, the father of one of the Eagles players. They did all they could to revive the gentleman, with Barbara making use of the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defibrillator, and continued to help the NHS paramedics who had responded promptly to the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emergency call.

In the circumstances, as was agreed by all at the ground, referee Nicholas Mackenzie had no alternative but to first suspend play and then to abandon the game. Eventually, at around 4.00pm with the paramedics still working hard to revive the gentleman, he was stretchered to the ambulance and taken to hospital. Sadly, despite the efforts of all concerned, it was later learned that the gentleman had passed away at Northwick Park hospital. With the agreement of his family the gentleman can now be named. He was David Barnes aged 62, who had lived his entire life in the Ealing area. He attended Walpole Grammar School and brought up his family in Pitshanger. He was currently living in Greenford and working for Vickers and Co, a Solicitors firm in West Ealing. David was a happily married family

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man who, in the words of his son Peter, ‘will leave behind our Mum, Lesley, two daughters, Rosie and Elaine, sons Tom and I, and grandchildren Amy, Zachary and Kayla’.

night going down well. The next quiz night is on Friday 29th January 7:30pm. For more details please contact Gerry on 01234 381213.

David was a keen supporter of local football, regularly attending games at Harrow Borough, Hanwell Town and other local clubs. As Peter explained ‘he enjoyed following non-league football and often said that he was at his happiest when he was part of the crowd of one of the clubs he would ‘ground-hop’ around. He would be gutted to learn that the match was abandoned on his behalf’.

Tues 5th January: Aylesbury United.

January’s home fixtures are: Saturday 9th January: Fleet Town. Saturday 23rd January: Hanwell. Finally, everyone at Bedford Town FC would like to thank all the businesses and supporters for their support and contributions throughout 2015. We wish you all a very Happy New Year and a prosperous 2016.

Peter has extended his heartfelt thanks to all involved in this incident particularly to Barbara Bivens, Richard Rooney, Paul Reading and the NHS paramedics for the efforts they made to revive his father. He was also extremely grateful for the respect shown to his father by both sets of supporters. Everyone associated with North Greenford and Bedford Town extend their sincere condolences to all of David’s family at this extremely sad time. May he rest in peace. On the field and the inconsistent season has continued. The Eagles went out of the FA Trophy to Weymouth, losing 4:1 at home to the Southern League Premier side. A disappointing result to Potters Bar 1:0 at the beginning of December did come off the back of a 3:2 penalty win in the North Beds Charity Cup. Social events have continued to go down well too, with the Murder Mystery Night at the Eyrie well attended and a Supporters Club quiz

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