Cople News March 2020

Cople News March 2020

COPLE VILLAGE TRUST

200 Club CASH Prize Draw *Support YOUR local facilities. *And have a chance to win every month.

We have some numbers spare for 2020.

£100 worth of prizes every month.

Please see a trustee or call Jane Barnard 01234 838004 or Catherine Bayliss 01234 838704 to buy your number.

At Only £12 for the Year!

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Editor’s Notes I have been the editor of Cople News for 10 years and will be standing down at the end of this year. This is an opportunity for a new team to take over.

The magazine is a viable concern. The printing costs are covered by the advertising revenue and everybody else in the team donates their services. Although we live in a digital age the printed format still occupies a valuable space. Most people still prefer to pick up a book or a magazine rather than look at a screen. Because the magazine goes to every house in the village it is a unique way to reach a wider audience than those directly involved in a particular activity. Without it we are all reduced to preaching to our respective choirs.

The financial year for the magazine is the calendar year, hence my intention to finish in December. If the magazine closes it will require a considerable effort to get it started again. Ideally the baton should not dropped. I think the best way to carry on is for a group of people rather one individual to take on the task. This would be less onerous, more fun and more creative than a one man band. In the coming months I will try to cover the various aspects of publishing a village magazine. If you would like to know more about what is involved please contact me.

This is a larger edition of Cople News than usual. You will notice that we are joined by a new crop of advertisers and village organisations have been busy planning their year. The Great Neighbours in Cople team is going to celebrate VE Day on the 8th May. I had not realised that the early spring bank holiday has been moved for this national event. Details are opposite. They are also planning a theatre trip to see Footloose at Milton Keynes. Details are on page 9. The monthly get together will take place in the Sports and Social Club on 23 March (page 23).

The Village Trust has asked me to remind everyone that the annual subscription to the 200 Club is now due. If you would like to join in please see the details on the front cover.

The Church Fete will take place on the 13th June. There is a notice on page 7. On the back cover there is a flyer for a Quiz to be held in Cople Church on 28th March. Those familiar with such events will know how well planned this will be.

There is something completely different on page 12. Two music events will be held in Elstow Abbey on 7th March. The first one is a workshop which will allow attendees to participate and the second is an evening concert.

Contemporary percussion music is beyond me but we have are sizable group of musicians in Cople who may well think otherwise.

Pottery classes are on offer in Cople. See page 33.

Ged Peeke 3

Letter from the Vicar Dear friends By the time you read this, we shall have entered the season of Lent – the 40 days of fasting and spiritual preparation to enter again into the tragedy and triumph that are the season of Easter.

This year the Church of England’s #LiveLent campaign is ‘Caring for God’s Creation’. As those who live in a rural village, I know we are far closer to the land and the seasons than I ever was when I lived in a town. We see the devastating impact it can have on a crop when there’s too much or too little rain. During the drought of 2018 I dug out the old 1662 Book of Common Prayer and found the prayer for rain, and prayed it. I do hope that’s not why we’ve had an over-abundance of rain since!

None of us can escape the reality that we’re living in a time of climate change which will have a far more disastrous impact on those in other parts of the world than in ours. We shan’t escape, of course, but neither will our country disappear completely as may happen to Bangladesh, Kiribati, and the Maldives.

Despair at such a prospect might seem warranted, but for Christians despair is never the appropriate response. We, along with those of all faiths and none, need to commit to care for the universe that God has made, and to work and pray for change that safeguards the future of this planet and its human and non-human creatures, as good stewards of what God has made.

Two books on my reading list for Lent take up this theme.

The first is the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Lent Book, Saying Yes to Life, by Dr Ruth Valerio. The blurb says that ‘as people made in the image of God we are entrusted to look after what he has created: to share in God’s joy and ingenuity in making a difference for good. You can read more about the book here https://spckpublishing.co.uk/ saying-yes-to-life.

The second is a bit more specialist.

Prompted by various podcasts about where our food comes from and the impact food production has on the ecosystems of the land, I bought a book by four young researchers working for the Jubilee Centre in Cambridge, looking at a biblical perspective on food, relationships, and the environment. It’s called ‘Thoughtful Eating’ and explores how we can learn to eat joyfully, relationally, and sustainably. The director of A Rocha, a Christian environmental campaign group, says, ‘If you are somebody who farms, preaches, shops or even just eats, you need to read this!’ As I fit three out of four or 4

those categories I thought I’d better read the book! You can find it here www.jubilee-centre.org/thoughtful-eating-book/ Wishing you a blessed Lent Revd Fiona Gibson

From the Church Register Service of Thanksgiving 15th January 2020 Hilda Frances PALMER (100 years)

Cople Church Coffee Morning Saturday 28th March 2020 10.30-12.00 (in the church)

The coffee morning in March is being run by the Sunday School mums (postponed from January) There will be an activity table for children Homemade cakes and hot and cold drinks will be available throughout the morning. Come along and chat to friends and enjoy the surroundings of our beautiful church.

All money raised to go to the church.

All welcome.

All Saints Church Revd Fiona Gibson The Vicarage. 3 Grange Lane. Cople, MK44 3TT. Telephone 01234 838145. email; cmwvicar@gmail.com Churchwardens June Thomas 34 Grange Lane Cople Beds MK44 3TT Tel: 01234 831705 juneshanahan748@btinternet.com 5

Julie Scherrer 26 Grange Way Willington Beds MK44 3QW Tel: 01234 838623 julie@scherrer.co.uk>

Mothers Union Members met last month and participated in a quiz having to work out from the initials only, couples and stories from the Bible.

As the Lady Day service on the 25th March will be held in Cople Church, our branch will be organising this, so arrangements were discussed. At the service we shall be taking communion and there will be a raffle and refreshments, and a chance to meet the members from the Bedford Cluster area.

After our meeting, Eileen was thanked for hosting us and for the refreshments.

The World Day of Prayer service (formerly Women’s World Day of Prayer) will be held in Cople Church at 7pm on Friday 6 th March. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Liz Buck

Prayer

Mothering Sunday Loving God. On this special day we thank you for mothers, our own mothers and mothers everywhere. We praise you, our God, for all mothers who have loved and laughed and laboured as they care for their children. We praise you, our God, for all mothers who have wept in sorrow and joy for their children. We praise you, our God, for Jesus, born of a woman and nurtured in her love, and for Mary, a reminder of your patient, waiting love. Grant your wisdom, guidance and support to all entrusted with the responsibility of motherhood. Lord of all love, hear our prayer in the name of Christ. Amen (MU The Prayers we Breathe)

Cople News Editor : Ged Peeke 39 Willington Road, Cople, Beds, MK44 3TH. Tel 01234 838379 Email: coplenews@gmail.com Deadline for copy and advertising 15th of every month

Advertising Rates

Annual Charges. Full Page £96.

Half Page £48

Delivered free to every home in Cople every month circulation 365 copies

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World Day of Prayer We are getting ready to join in the 2020 World Day of Prayer, which encircles the globe, starting with sunrise in Samoa, and finishing several hours later back in the Pacific. Our service is on Friday 6 March at Cople Church at 7pm.

Each year the service is written by a different country, this time Zimbabwe, and we take part here in the Benefice. You may remember from your geography lessons that the country is shaped like a tea pot. We have a chance to join in several songs and hymns, and this year we know the tunes of most of them. However, there are some new ones.

To help us take part, we are having a “World Day of Prayer Sing Along” before the service so we may learn the new tunes, and we do hope that you will be able to come along.

Everyone is welcome, whether you regularly come to Church or not. We will be delighted to see you on Monday 2 March at St. Lawrence’s Church, Willington at 7.15pm Shirley Jones

A Date for your Diary The annual church fete will take place on 13th June this year.

If you are able to sow some extra seeds for the plant stall or take some cuttings we would really appreciate it.

More information about the fete to follow.

If you can help or have any ideas for new stalls etc please contact June 831705

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Great Neighbours in Cople Theatre Trip Tuesday 30th June

Footloose at Milton Keynes theatre 7 pm.

The cost is ÂŁ30 for over 65 s and under16 year olds and ÂŁ35 for adults which includes transport to and from the theatre . Please call Tracy on 07711680984 to book your tickets and all money is due by the 1st of May. Tracy Herrick

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Come and try singing in a choir ALMA SINGERS OPEN EVENING on Monday 9 March, 7.30 – 9.15pm at the Methodist church hall, Bedford Road, Great Barford For more information - call Pat 01234 870198

The Alma Singers is a ladies’ community choir which sings a variety of light music no singing experience needed no need to read music no auditions Musical Director - lively and entertaining Dianne Walters Accompanist - tolerant and talented James McKenzie

We look forward to meeting you

Can’t make it on 9 March? You’re welcome to join us on any Monday http://www.alma-singers.co.uk/

Blunham Community Cinema Village Hall, MK44 3NN, presents on Friday 27th March the film 'Man Up' (Cert 15) starring Simon Pegg and Lake Bell. A single woman takes the place of a stranger's blind date, which leads to her finding the perfect boyfriend.

Film starts promptly 7.30 pm doors open 7pm. Tickets costs Adults £5.00. Sweets, Drinks, Ice cream and pop-corn are available.

For tickets or any further information contact 07783 046020.

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Stylish bathrooms and kitchens to suit your current needs and budget. With a spacious working showroom in the heart of Bedford, P & R Interiors is a local family-run firm that provides inspirational modern design and cost-effective solutions for both kitchens and bathrooms. There are 54 stunning display in our beautiful showroom that are constantly being updated. So, you can come in, see exactly what you are buying and experience first-hand with working displays.

We can undertake all aspects of building work supply and fit or supply only.

P & R Interiors, 9 Lurke Street, Bedford Mk40 3HZ Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00 pm Saturdays 10.00am to 4.00pm Tel: 01234 352414 Email: sales@pandrinteriors.store Web: www.pandrinteriors.co.uk

With a large showroom right in the heart of Bedford our aim is to offer our clients, old and new, the best products and the best service for their Bathrooms, Kitchens and Tiling requirements.

We have been supplying and installing bathrooms and kitchens in Bedford and surrounding areas for over 30 years. Bringing together reliable, skilful and trusted tradespeople we personally ensure every installation is completed to the highest possible levels of workmanship and to the satisfaction of our clients.

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Music Events at Elstow Abbey Saturday 7th March 2020 Contemporary Music For All Festival 10.30am – 1.00pm Tickets £5.00 As part of this year’s Contemporary Music For All Festival bring your instrument (wind, brass, string, keyboard or percussion) and join members of the Joby Burgess Percussion Collective in this inspiring and instrumental workshop for young people and adults alike.

One of Britain’s best percussionists, Joby Burgess is best known for virtuosic performances, daring collaborations, extensive education work and regularly appears with artists including Peter Gabriel, Goldfrapp, Gabriel Prokofiev, Max Richter and Pete Tong.

Terry Riley’s revolutionary In C, composed in 1964 on America’s west coast, marks the beginning of the minimalist movement in music, fusing ideas from rock ‘n’ roll an Indian raga with classical performance. 53 short melodic fragments provide each musician with their own path through this joyful, rhythmic and essentially hip slice of new music.

Participants should be able to read music and have experience of performing in an ensemble, orchestra or band. Minimum age is 13, recommended ability Grade 5 or above.

Joby Burgess Percussion Collective 7.30pm Tickets £6 - 12 As part of this year’s Contemporary Music For All Festival hear the Joby Burgess Percussion Collective in a special performance celebrating new music. Marimbas, bass drums and aluminium harp feature in the atmospheric Elstow Abbey Programme Steve Reich – Music for Pieces of Wood Eric Whitacre – Marimba Quartets John Luther Adams – Qilyuan Linda Buckley – Discordia John Cage – Credo in Us

Box office: https://musicworkshopelstowabbey.eventbrite.com Box office https://jobyburgesselstowabbey.eventbrite.com About Joby Burgess www.jobyburgess.com About Contemporary Music For All Festival www.coma.org 12

Tuesday Club Originally established in 1954 the Bedford and District Cerebral Palsy Society (BDCPS) is a small charity based in Bedfordshire. Ellie trained and worked as a teacher. She is now one the 5 salaried staff at BDCPS. Otherwise the charity is supported by volunteers.

The Society is unique in supporting the whole family and cares organising activities and days out. They provide inclusive, inspiring empowering and creative play schemes and clubs for young people from 0-25+ years .

Cerebral Palsy is a condition that affects muscle control and movement.

It usually results from damage or injury to the developing brain, before during or after birth. Children with Cerebral Palsy have difficulties in controlling their muscles and movements. They can be stiff and often suffer tremors and seizures. Cerebral Palsy is the most common form of childhood physical disability in the U.K. Possibly affecting 1 in every 400 babies.

BDCPS focus on ability rather than disability. They run innovative fun and inclusive clubs and play schemes for children and young people with complex and often life-limiting conditions. Different clubs for each age range on a monthly basis. Wonderful and extraordinary experiences especially for the long school holidays. Enabling people with complex disabilities to “live life their way” and to the full .

Members and guests raised a substantial amount at our “bring and buy” Thank you so much for your generosity the proceeds of which will be donated to B.D.C.P.S. Next Meeting 10 March 7 30 pm . Sarah Oliver Lady Plumber.

Please join us in Cople Village Hall I am sure we can pick up some tips!

Eithne Dandy.

Nearly New Centre Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm & Saturday 10am to 1pm At Sue Ryder Palliative Care Home St. John’s Moggerhanger

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YOGA

Energising, Flowing, Hatha Vinyasa classes with Genevieve Cardington Village Hall Southill Road, Cardington Sundays 10 – 11 a.m.

Classes also held in Bedford Monday and Wednesday evenings and Thursday morning.

Phone Gen on 07849 158 850

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HOLISTIC THERAPIST & BODY WORKER Suzanne Edgington

CNM (Dip), L.C.M. Dip, AOSM Dip, B.S.Y.A.( Ad.Arom), L.C.M.IH Dip, LSSM (Dip), CTLLS, CST II, SERI,SERII

SPORTS MASSAGE CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY,

ACUPUNCTURE, NUTRITION, and More…

For Acute & Chronic conditions:

Muscular problems, Injuries, Stress, Headaches, Anxiety etc.

Individually tailored treatments Helping you to move on and live life!

01234 870 236 / 07802 864 275

Email: suzyedge@btinternet.com www.suzanneedgington.co.uk

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jkobrien@live.co.uk

ACE PEST LIMITED Fast Efficient Service

Rats, Mice, Fleas, Moles, Wasps, Bird Proofing etc We offer very competitive rates with normally same day service Proprietor: Mr J. T. Hillyard Telephone 01234 - 838391

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TCS Paintingď ?

Local Friendly Painter

Small Interior Painting Work Also Fence and Decking Staining Phil 07799 012107 or 01234 300769 Bedford and Surrounding Villages

V J Edwards Plastering & Building Services Certified Plasterer by British Gypsum – all works guaranteed for 2 years.

Tel no: M: 07970 011605 H: 01234 740400 Internal and external Plastering Special Renders: Krend, monocuhe and Cemrend Stud Partitioning Plaster Boarding Garage conversions, Kitchens & Bathrooms and small extensions 20

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Great Neighbours in Cople Great Neighbours in Cople run a friendly get together at the Sports and Social Club for Cople residents to come and say hello and meet other local people and enjoy a complimentary tea/ coffee and a slice of cake . All residents are welcome .

The next GNIC afternoon is on Monday 23rd March 1:30pm to 3:30pm in the Sports and Social Club and they will continue to be held on every Fourth Monday of each month. If any help is needed getting to the Social Club or returning home please ask and GNIC will be of assistance .

Hope to see you there !!

The GNIC committee

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WILLINGTON VILLAGE HALL MONDAY NIGHTS DURING TERM TIME 6:30pm until 8:00pm If you are interested in joining us please register online:JoinUs@girlguiding.org.uk Further information can be obtained from Brown Owl Tel :07914 240494 / Email: willingtongirlguiding@gmail.com

B. W. Taylor Plumbing Roofing and all Building Maintenance From “Complete Bathrooms and Kitchens” including tiling and plastering through to “Ball Valves and “Garden Taps” No Job too small Local Reliable service at Reasonable Rates References Supplied if Required

Telephone: Barrie Taylor Mobile

01234 - 838 676 07979 - 928 186

COUNTRY STOVES & SWEEPS HETAS Registered Wood/Multi Fuel Stove Installation Gas Fires Fitted – GAS SAFE Chimney Sweeping Insurance/Safety Certificates Issued Chimney Lining Bird Guards Fitted Free Survey & Quote Competitive Prices

01767 627591 / 07950 705479 Julian Biggs, Northill, Bedfordshire

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March Diary Church Services 1st

10.00am 11:30am

Sunday School All-Age Communion

8th

10:00am 11:30am

Sunday School Holy Communion (Book of Common Prayer)

15th

10.00am 11:30am

Sunday School Sung Communion

22nd

11:30am

Mothering Sunday Family Service

29th

10:00am 1:00am 3pm

Benefice Missions Breakfast Benefice Missions Service Forest Church at Bottom Wood, Moggerhanger Park.

Morning Prayers At Willington Church 9am on Thursday 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th March

Lent Group at Willington Methodist Chapel 7:30pm Wednesday 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th March Monday 2nd

Orange and Green Bins

11am

Benefice Tiny Tots Praise

Cople Church

6:15pm

Youth Music Group Practice

Cople Church

7:15pm

Benefice Choir Practice

4 Grange Way Willington

Tuesday 3rd 7:30pm

Bell ringing practice

Friday 6th 7pm

World Day of Prayer Service

Cople Church

Monday 9th

Black Bin

11am

Benefice Tiny Tots Praise

2pm

Mothers Union

6:15pm

Youth Music Group Practice

Cople Church

7:30pm

Benefice Choir Practice

Cople Church

7:30pm

Tuesday Club Sarah Oliver—Lady Plumber

Village Hall

7:30pm

Bell ringing practice

Cople Church

Tuesday 10th

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Monday 16th

Orange and Green Bins

11am

Benefice Tiny Tots Praise

Cople Church

12:30pm

Luncheon Club

Cople Church

6:15pm

Youth Music Group Practice

Cople Church

7:15pm

Benefice Choir Practice

4 Grange Way Willington

Tuesday 17th 7:30pm

Bell ringing practice

Thursday 19th 2:30pm

Afternoon Tea

Moggerhanger Church

7:30pm

PCC Meeting

Monday 23rd

Black Bin

11am

Benefice Tiny Tots Praise

Cople Church

1:30 to 3:30 pm

GNiC get together

Sports and Social Club

6:15pm

Youth Music Group Practice

Cople Church

7:30pm

Benefice Choir Practice

Cople Church

Tuesday 24th 7:30pm

Bell ringing practice

Wednesday 25th 2pm

Mother Union Lady Day Holy Communion Service

Cople Church

10:30 to 12:00

Coffee morning. See page 5.

Cople Church

7pm

Spring Quiz & Supper Night

Cople Church

Monday 30th

Orange and Green Bins

11am

Benefice Tiny Tots Praise

Cople Church

6:15pm

Youth Music Group Practice

Cople Church

7:15pm

Benefice Choir Practice

4 Grange Way Willington

Saturday 28th

Tuesday 31st 7:30pm

Bell ringing practice

Mobile Library for March Wednesday 4th and 18th March 10:00 to 10:20am All Saints Road, 10:25 to 10:40am Water End, 10:45 to 11:05am Outside Five Bells 27

SJ TAX & ACCOUNTING QUALIFIED ACCOUNTANT Professional friendly services, Tax advice, Free initial consultation, Sole traders, Ltd companies, bookkeeping, payroll, CIS, VAT & Tax. E: sally@sjtax.co.uk Tel: 01234 831997 Mob: 07899 808592

Cople Carpet Bowls Club Carpet bowls is played indoors on a 30ft carpet in Cople Village Hall on Wednesday evenings 7:30 to 10:00 pm. Any enquiries contact Pauline on 01234 838102.

Pauline Baynes.

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Cople - Coffee Morning In Cople Village Hall Run by The Kempston Centre Every Tuesday 10:30am to 12 noon Tea / Coffee Home Made Cakes Come and have a chat with friends in a relaxed atmosphere.

Knit and Stitch We are a small group who meet every other Friday morning, 10am to 12 noon, in the Five Bells. We knit, stitch, craft and of course chat!

Coffee and delicious cake is also served around 11am.

If you are not a crafter but would like to join us just for the company and to partake of the refreshments then please do.

Contact Jill on 838659 or just turn up on March 6th and 20th.

Friends of All Saints Church Cople The Friends of Cople Church would like to thank everyone who participated in the Safari Supper on Saturday 8 th February. All the feedback on the night and subsequently indicates a good time was had by all, and the event raised a little over ÂŁ900.

49 people traipsed around the village expecting Storm Ciara to join in, but fortunately she arrived too late to interfere.

We would like to thank all those who provided raffle prizes, desserts, or hosted a starter or a main course. Without hosts, the event simply could not take place.

We would especially like to thank Liz and Chris at Dog House Kitchen, who got involved this year and hosted 16 for us, and by all accounts the fare served was lovely. If you are not aware of it, The Dog House Kitchen is a Popup Restaurant situated at Dog Farm on the A603 as you turn left out of Cople towards Bedford. You can glean more information from their website at www.doghousekitchen.co.uk The next confirmed date for your diary is the Barn Dance at Oak Farm on Saturday 27th June. Details will be announced in a future edition of the Magazine.

Miles Tetley

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Wild about Cople I have just driven back from a meeting on a morning of pale, early spring sunshine down the hill from Old Warden into Cardington. As I dropped down the hill, I was above a stunning red kite soaring and circling over the fields and hedgerows, the sun glittering off the tawny reds, browns, blacks and whites of the bird and contrasting with the subdued colours of the winter trees and pale green and brown fields. The wind ruffled and lifted the scapulars as the bird turned and the forked tail, acting as a rudder, twisted and turned in the sunlight. A magnificent sight and a real treat that really brightened my day.

There is something wholly special about birds of prey that inspires and thrills me, and I don’t think I am alone in feeling that way. They are often glimpsed only briefly, but that is the way it should be and the fact that they bring an exciting edge into our lives is important. Whether it is a moustachioed peregrine, capable of stooping at almost 200mph with those deep, powerful, scything wings scudding into a pigeon flock and scattering the birds with its power, grace and deadly accuracy; a tiny merlin, hardly bigger than a song thrush, a throbbing ball of barely sustained intense energy or a hobby; a dashing, long-winged small falcon with chestnut legs, arrow-streaked chest, bandit-moustaches; a hunter of swifts, swallows and dragonflies and with a way of almost metamorphosing from normal speed to warp speed in the blink of an eye and causing utter silence and panic amongst those swift aerial fliers of our summer skies.

From the golden eagle to the goshawk and from the hen harrier to the familiar buzzard they are all inspirational, play an important role in the ecosystem and bring a sense of wildness, power and awe when their presence imprints itself upon our lives, however briefly – and we all need that. There is nothing like an apex predator to move us and I, without doubt, love to see them.

Yes, I know the odd sparrowhawk may take a blue tit or collared dove off our bird tables and pluck it on the lawn, but that is only their way of making a living and, Nature decrees that there can never be more predators than prey (otherwise the predators would run out of food and go extinct – and that’s not good for the overall survival of the species).

So, there are always 100 collared doves to every sparrowhawk and the prey breed much faster than the sparrowhawks do. Many birds of prey suffered catastrophic declines in the 50’s and 60’s due to the extensive use of organochlorine pesticides such as DDT which caused egg shell thinning and deaths of both nestlings and adults – if you eat 10 pigeons that have been feeding from DDT-dusted grain then the pesticides accumulate in the body fat and muscles until they reach toxic overload and kill the unfortunate bird (and imagine what those poisons were doing to us (like birds of prey, we are also apex predators…) – the poisons were accumulating at the top of the food chain. After many years of campaigning the organochlorine pesticides were voluntarily banned (ridiculous) and, eventually, after evidence provided by scientists, the 30

pesticides were totally banned (and good riddance). And after just a few years, kestrel, sparrowhawk and peregrine populations started to increase and, apart from a few downs have remained at pre-60’s levels ever since although some recent decreases are worrying.

I have had a few birds of prey perched on a glove on my wrist and, at close range, the awesomeness of these incredible animals intensifies – the eyes boring into your very soul, the beauty of the feathering, the rippling muscles, the alertness, the impression of that so-close-to-the-edge sense of power. They look like thunderclouds – they are like things of hammered metal and scales and glass. And they make me shiver with their power which is tempered with a beauty that radiates from these exquisite creatures and the way in which they have evolved into such a pinnacle of perfection.

Long may these marvellous, empowering, wild, thundering birds rule the skies, our hearts and our imaginations.

If you are as much in love with birds of prey as I am then you really must read ‘H is for Hawk’ by Helen Macdonald – it is a book of wonder.

Steve Halton

stevehalton@gmail.com

R S WORRALL Building Services

(C.F Worrall &Sons Established 1944)

Kitchen Installations & Property Maintenance Call Ralph on 07950815192 or 01234838113

ralphworrall@yahoo.co.uk

9 All Saints Road, Cople, Beds 31

Willington Peace Memorial Hall, Church Road, Willington, Beds, MK44 3PU

Open daily Mon-Fri 9.15-12.15 With lunch club available 12.15-1.15

Sessional day care for 2-4year olds during term time. ÂŁ12.00 for a 3hr session (ÂŁ4.00 extra for lunch club) We also except 2 and 3/4 year old NEF funding To enquire about a place for your child please email Kelly and Stacey at willingtots@outlook.com or call on 07972 148085 32

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Arthritis and your dog.

Arthritis is the gradual deterioration and loss of the smooth cartilage surface on the end of the bones within a joint. Cartilage is the shock absorber and contains lubricant which allows smooth, frictionless movement of the joint.

It is generally associated with wear and tear in older dogs but can also be seen in younger dogs due to development issues such as elbow and hip dysplasia or acquired due to traumatic injuries to a joint. Around 30-50% of dogs will be affected by arthritis at some point in their lives. My own 16 year old Jack Russell, Dudley (pictured here) has arthritis in his shoulder.

Arthritis cannot currently be cured; it is a progressive condition that leads to immobility and pain. As deterioration of the structures within the joint progresses the pain causes reduced use of the joint and the limb. The supporting muscles come under increased stresses and splinting occurs as the muscles try to stabilise the joint leading to the formation of painful trigger points and myofascial pain. The dog compensates for the painful joint by altering its posture placing other muscles under increased stress.

Ultimately the brain becomes more aware of the constant pain and magnifies it.

The initial signs of arthritis may be subtle as changes occur within the joint and because your dog has four limbs they can shift weight onto the other three, alter their posture and cope. The first noticeable signs for many owners are their dog has slowed down or is reluctant to go for a walk. Joint pain can manifest as moaning, restlessness or altered behaviour (not wanting to be touched, even aggression). The main symptoms of arthritis are stiffness, lameness and pain.

The key to management is early diagnosis by your vet, effective pain control and lifestyle modifications to minimise deterioration. These modifications include use of rugs and runners on slippery floors, minimising access to stairs, altering exercise routines to avoid excessive stress on the joints and weight management.

Massage can help by:  Working on the muscles around the joint to decrease and manage splinting  Reducing myofascial pain  Releasing trigger points  Reducing the tension in over-compensating muscles  Interrupting the pain pathways thereby reducing the level of pain  Lengthening and loosening the muscles that have become fixed, allowing the dog to move more freely.

Fiona Hughes is the owner of Cople Canine Massage Therapy and a member of the Canine Massage Guild. If you think massage could benefit your dog contact me on 07808 588133.

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COPLE VILLAGE TRUST (Registered Charity No. 1090113)

200 CLUB

Prize winners for February 2020 1 prize of £60 275 Susan Hull 2nd prize of £30 131 Tony Wilsher 3rd prize of £10 172 Stacey Plunket Thank you for your support All monies raised are used to maintain and improve the Village Hall, Playing Field & Playground. st

Treasurer Catherine Bayliss catherine.bayliss@btinternet.com

01234 838704/07880 890508

Contact

01234 838004

JaneB2014@hotmail.com

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HERITAGE PAINTERS & DECORATORS EXTERNAL & INTERNAL PAINTING & DECORATING WALL PAPER HANGING, ARTEX & COVING OFFICE: 01767 691010 MOBILE: 07860 601567 EmaiL: heritagewestwood@btinternet.com www.heritagedecorators.co.uk

FULLY INSURED FREE ESTIMATES 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

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New Pilates Studio open in Willington 1:1 & 1:2 matwork sessions or on Reformer & Tower equipment, times to suit you. All classes run in the classical style with limited places to ensure purity of the method, pre booking only.

Julie has been teaching Pilates for 2 decades in the local area, and since 2006 in Cople She has been working within the fitness industry since 1989. Julie's wealth of experience means she is able to teach and help people of all ages and abilities.

The studio is conveniently located in your area.

For more information please see website www.forwardfitness.co.uk or contact Julie Crawford Ring 0794 6067266 or email julie_griff@hotmail.com.

Pilates Classes, Private Sessions, Fully equipped Studio, with equipment for 1;1 small group and Rehab Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Time 2.00 3.30 4.30 6.00 7.05 8.10 9.20

Class Type Mixed ability Studio* Studio* Mixed ability Advanced Mixed ability Studio* 1:1

Venue Cardington Willington Willington The Place, Bedford The Place, Bedford The Place, Bedford Bedford

11.00-5.30 6.00 7.20

Studio*1:1 Mixed ability Mixed ability

Willington Riseley Swineshead

Varies Varies Varies

Wellbeing Wednesday Meditation Workshops Walking Pilates

10.00-10.45 11.00-1.30 2.00 3.30-6.15

Armchair Studio* 1:1 Mixed ability Studio*1:1 New Client Intro Back Management Mixed ability Studio*1:1 New Client Intro

6.30 7.35 8.45

Willington Willington Cardington Willington Willington Willington Studio Willington or Bedford

Studio 1:1 Clients (or 1:2 dual) Julie provides for a range of Pilates clients on a 1:1 basis for beginners to advanced or those with special needs by arrangement. Please contact me directly for further details.

New client introductory 1:1 (or 1:2 dual) sessions are recommended to understand the method before joining a class. This is not obligatory but most clients find it helpful.

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BED AND BREAKFAST AT THE PINK COTTAGE, MOGGERHANGER www.thepinkcottage.co.uk

Prices from £50 per night per double room Dogs welcome Contact Mel Ebbage Tel: 07538257632 Email : info@thepinkcottage.co.uk 42

PB ELECTRICAL SERVICES All electrical works undertaken from :Full rewires, part rewires.

New distribution boards.

Additional sockets and light fittings.

CCTV installations.

No job to small.

Call Paul on 07840 683417 or email paulblackmore3@gmail.com 43

Gardening in March It is the stuff of nightmares for many gardeners: a lawn that you have spent literally hours mowing, caring for and generally looking after like a new born, suddenly has the unmistakable neat mound of a mole hill on it!

This very scenario has recently occurred to me and the range of emotions one goes through are, fascinating and to someone with a lifelong interest in the human condition are revealing of so much more than one might actually expect!

In this particular case, the lawn is very large and surrounded on all sides by farmer’s fields. So, after seeing the immaculately presented cone of soil for the very first time, I was keen to find out why my lovely lawn had been targeted. This impulse, I have learnt over the years, often accompanies bad news; the ‘why me?’ reflex! car break ins, illness diagnoses, being let down by so called ‘friends’, all, I recall, where accompanied by me asking myself ‘why me?’ and although all of these are far more serious than the appearance of a humble mole, that unmistakable feeling of being got at remains exactly the same.

Having surveyed as far as I could all other land in the area, still the only mole hill in the entire locale appeared to be in the only one cultivated, some say ‘manicured’ by my own fair hands! The former psychology lecturer in me was at this stage teetering on the point of a fully blown persecution complex before, as the Irish say, ‘I had a word with myself’, and I regained my normal rational, cerebral modus operandi and my 44

sense of perspective was happily restored and went something like this: ‘I have a mole. I don’t want a mole. I don’t want to hurt the mole but I don’t want the mole here’.

So, what was I going to do? Moles eat worms and just like all of us, as long as there is a ready food supply, they will be happy but vermicides, worm killers, are horrible, indiscriminate weapons of war. Moreover, they do far more damage to a garden than the mole itself so that option was rapidly ruled out.

Recalling with affection, the Jasper Carrot comedy routine about moles from the early 1980’s (available, I am sure, on You Tube), I went through the list of options including children’s sand castle windmills and moth balls, before concluding just like Mr Carrot that ‘there’s only one way to get rid of moley, blow his bloody head off!’. But if killing the mole is really the only option, then I have a major dilemma. Do I continue to be ‘terrorised’ or do I call for the local pest controller and sacrifice one of my central tenets that all animals have a right to life unless their being threatens the right to life?

As I write this, I am two days away from finding out if the mole has created more damage or very best case scenario, the otherwise delightful little blighter has moved to pastures new. I am so hoping that the latter has happened but we shall see... Got a successful, non malevolent solution to mole removal? Please get in touch!

The answer to last month’s question, why should sodden ground not be walked upon, is simply that it may cause compaction. All plants require a ‘root run’ that is to say, areas that a plant’s roots may, in time, grow into.

At its simplest, the easier it is for a plant to do this, the happier the plant will be. Soil structure is hugely compromised by it being compressed so keep well off is the best advice.

This month’s just for fun question is: Unsightly worm casts at this time of the year are on your lawn. What do you do? As usual, many thanks to all of you for contributing to this column and please contact me with any gardening tasks or queries you may have, lawndocgardens@aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855.

Lawn Doctor.

Lawn Doctor Garden Services Clearance, Redesign, Maintenance Tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855 Email: LawnDocGardens@aol.com Tree Care, Planting, Weeding, Hedge Trimming, Turfing, Jungle Clearing, Landscaping, Lawn Improvement, Patio/Drive Pressure Washing/Weedkilling, Holiday Watering etc., etc.

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£10 OFF ONLY £44.85 check out our tyre prices on our website www.biggleswademot.co.uk 48

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Village Contacts Over 60's Club Secretary : Hazel Shreeves Tel : 838817

Cople Web Site Ian Whiting Tel : 838347 Email: ian@cople.org.uk Web Site :www.cople.org.uk

Mothers Union Contact: Jill Ebbs Tel : 838659

Village Agent Wendy Worgan 0800 039 1234

Cople Village Trust Chair : Sandra Thacker Tel : 831344

07717 269 440 wendyw@bedsrcc.org.uk

Cople Sports & Social Club Chair: David Hughes Tel : 838669

Cople Parish Council Clerk to the Council:

Anne Pape 01234 376645 coplepc@outlook.com

Tuesday Club Joy Duthie Tel : 838407 Biggleswade Chronicle Village Correspondent: Jill Ebbs Tel: 838659

Our local good neighbourhood scheme GREAT NEIGHBOURS in COPLE seeks to support residents of our village in a manner that will enable them to remain independent for as long as possible.

Our volunteers help local people by giving some of their time to undertake tasks such as shopping, picking up prescriptions, light household duties, gardening or putting out the bins or by spending some time with people who may feel isolated or lonely.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or want to talk to someone about using the service please feel free to contact us on 07746624208 on Monday and Thursdays between 1300hrs – 1500hrs or email us at gniccople@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook for further information.

Cople Village Hall & Playing Field Available for Hire for: Parties, Wedding Receptions, Meetings, Conferences etc.

Main Hall and/or Committee Room - hire charge from £9 per hour, special rate of £25 for children’s parties of up to three hours (conditions apply) Contact 01234 838704 or villagehallenquiries@cople.org.uk for more information 50

Machine Services Limited Water End, Cople, Bedford

Suppliers of leading Brand Names in Domestic & Professional powered garden machinery at BIG DISCOUNTS with full service back up Petro, Diesel, Electric, Battery Allen, Atco, Billy Goat, Countax, Eliet, Flymo, Hayter, Honda, Klippo, Lawnflite, MTD, Mountfield, Robin, Ryobi, Stihl, Viking, Westwood, Yardman, etc.

For details of Products and Savings visit our website www.groudcarebedford.co.uk Tel: 01234 831123 Sales + Service + Spares + Repairs

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