Your community magazine packed with features on all things Luton from the past, present and future.
It’s been a while since the last issue and the world has changed a fair bit since then. But, guess what? Luton is changing too, and for the better. One of our main features will navigate you around Luton’s Town Centre redevelopment (p8-9), a visionary project to attract people into the centre, and provide a platform for new businesses to create jobs and prosper.
Our cover story (p4-5) features one of Luton’s most recognisable and cherished sons - the hugely popular Luton Town FC legend, Mick Harford. Big Mick opened up to us about his
battle with cancer, and just how much the town means to him.
We also focus on how our diverse communities celebrate their marriages, then cast our eyes to the forthcoming Diwali in Luton festival (p12-13).
There are also some tips on how to tackle the cost of living crisis and address climate change, with some ideas and information that could not just save you a few quid – but the planet too (p16-17).
There’s a four-page spread detailing What’s On (p20-23)
It was a privilege to host Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in Luton on a number of occasions.
These images are from some of her visits including St Mary’s Church, the Welbeck Centre (a job training hub), Noah Enterprises and Luton Central Library.
We remember these memories fondly, and it was pleasing to see our diverse communities come together to show such affection
for Her Majesty during a series of commemoration and reflection events in September.
These were truly poignant occasions for the town as we remembered the passing of our longest serving Monarch.
Rest in peace, Your Majesty. With love, from the people of Luton.
over the coming months, preceded by James Cunliffe’s take on the local music scene.
We hope we’ve provided something for everyone within these pages. But if there are any more hidden gems you’d like to tell us about, or super ideas for future issues, we would LOVE to hear from you. Drop us a line lutonlife@luton.gov.uk
Bye for now then, take care of each other. We are one town, one Luton.
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It is impossible to spend an hour with Luton Town legend Mick Harford without discussing the elephant in the room. Big Mick’s battle with prostate cancer looks set to go into extra time as he continues his courses of intensive treatment, which affects him every single day.
Despite engaging in the most ferocious battle with an unseen enemy since Arnie battered the Predator, the former Luton Town player, first team coach, assistant manager, caretaker manager, manager and director of football, has resumed his role of chief recruitment officer at the club. Mick was rocked by his diagnosis in December 2020. Then, following an emotional meeting with club CEO Gary Sweet and first team manager Nathan Jones, he went public in July last year, hoping to raise awareness amongst the club’s fervent fan base
of the importance of getting bloodtested to check their PSA levels, high levels of which may indicate the presence of cancer.
“It’s a massive shock when someone tells you you’ve got cancer. And I was told at the time there would be no cure. It was really tough, but what do you do? Do you roll up your sleeves and get on with it, or sit at home all day and mope about?” said Mick.
“It’s like when you’re a young kid and you speak about what you’d do if you got it. ‘I’d do all this, I’d do all that’. But you don’t. When you get cancer you’ve got to reset your life. I changed my diet, got a bit more
exercise and try to lead a better lifestyle.
“What I decided, with Nathan and Gary, was try to get the word out there. That’s helped me a lot. If I can help one person then I’m really chuffed.
“I’ve had all my radiotherapy and now I’m on hormone therapy to block my testosterone. I’m in a good place, my numbers are good. I’m just playing the waiting game now. Hopefully, in about 14 months, I’ll come off the medication and get the all-clear.”
Mick’s trademark bone-splintering handshake may feel a little more merciful these days, yet the glint in his eyes still sparkles and his passion for Luton, and not just the football club, burns as bright as ever.
Born in Sunderland in 1959, Mick played for Lincoln City, Newcastle
United, Bristol City and Birmingham City before arriving at Kenilworth Road for the first of two stints as a player in December 1984.
Part of the famous Luton side that won the Littlewoods Cup in 1988, Mick would score at Wembley in the same competition’s final the following year, albeit in defeat to Nottingham Forest. 1988 also saw him win two England caps, in internationals against Israel and Denmark.
“There have been some amazing times. Luton is the best club I’ve ever played for. I had the time of my life there, and played my best football. I was fortunate to play for England, so I owe Luton a lot as well – they’ve been really good to me.”
“I lived near Stockwood Park for 14 years and really enjoyed that. Danny Wilson and Darron McDonough [both former team mates] used to have a little drink in the Brewery Tap, so I’d pop in and see them now and again. There was always a good atmosphere. It’s always been a very vibrant town with all the communities, very multicultural.
“I used to get in the Irish bars and drink with the Irish boys. Then we would go to Wardown Park and drink with Luton Indians Cricket Club. We had some amazing times. I’ve got lots of friends here and I’m
in Luton every day. I love coming here, it’s a massive part of my life. My son was born at the L&D.”
He ended his playing days in the Premier League with Wimbledon in 1997, before moving into a coaching career that would come to cement his legendary status in the town even further.
In 2008, having previously been part of successful management teams under Joe Kinnear and Mike Newell, Mick took on the impossible task of salvaging Luton Town’s Football League status, burdened with a mind-boggling minus 30 points deduction.
To ease the pain of relegation, the Hatters lashed out at their punishers with a stunning Football League Trophy victory over Scunthorpe United at Wembley in May 2009. Mick would later bring in more silverware by sealing the League One title in 2019, having stepped back into the breach following Nathan Jones’ untimely move to Stoke City.
Mick squirms when you talk him up as the club legend he undoubtedly is, preferring to project his successes onto the supporters who sing his name.
“The fans are the best in the country, bar none. I get a bit embarrassed by it [legend] but if they want to call me that, I’ll take it. It’s a unique club that gets under your skin. It’s great to be part of it.”
For anyone associated with LTFC, and indeed the wider community, the focus now is firmly on seeing the Power Court stadium plans become reality.
“It will be a nightmare to leave Kenilworth Road as the memories from there will live with me forever. But to have a new stadium will be amazing.
“We can build this football club. It’s a massive challenge for Gary Sweet and the board, but it’s something I’m looking forward to. The club needs it if we want to move on and progress. I think everyone understands that.
“It will be the catalyst for the regeneration of Luton. It will be the main focal point of the town, and I’m really looking forward to seeing the town growing and improving.”
Mick has accepted an ambassadorial role as a patron of the Beds Prostate Cancer Support Group.
In association with Luton Town Supporters Trust, a testing event in the Eric Morecambe Suite at LTFC attracted 199 local men – 16 of whom subsequently discovered they had prostate cancer.
BPCSG’s Jim Francis said: “Don’t put off having a blood test. It’s the simplest test in the world. And don’t ever think it can’t be you - because it can.” www.bpcsg.org.uk
One in eight men will get prostate cancer. If you’re over 50, or you’re black, or your dad or brother had it, you’re at even higher risk.
Prostate cancer is not always life-threatening but when it is, the earlier you catch it, the more likely it is to be cured.
Early prostate cancer doesn’t normally have any signs. So don’t wait for symptoms. Get tested.
Staff at LTFC raised £28,557 for Prostate UK in a month-long fitness challenge to support Big Mick www.prostatecanceruk.org
Photo: Hatters Heritage
2022 marks fifty years since The Mall Luton opened. Originally opening as The Arndale Centre in 1972, the centre sits at the heart of the town and is marking the milestone with a number of projects supporting local charities and organisations.
The centre is also taking a firm stand on sustainability, with a number of initiatives in place to reduce its environmental impact.
General Manager, Roy Greening, says, “Our mission here at The Mall Luton is to support the local community, while promoting diversity and inclusivity. Our focus on sustainability has meant we have significantly reduced our impact on the environment over recent years.
“Zero percent of the waste generated at The Mall Luton goes to landfill and it’s been that way since 2013. Last year, we recycled 259 tonnes of cardboard, saving over 800 tonnes of CO2 from landfill.
We also sent more than 17 tonnes of plastic for recycling, meaning we saved almost 34 barrels of oil, and 8 tonnes of food waste was turned to liquid and compost.”
The Mall has 20 recycling bins within the centre, along with two water refill stations to help guests and centre staff reduce their use of single use plastics. Two beehives on the roof of the centre produce honey, and there are plans afoot to sell the produce for charity.
In 2021 we supported 38 &
charitable organisations
33 community groups
raised via the Mall’s Poppy Appeal since 2016
The centre actively supports many cultural celebrations that are important to the community including Eid, Diwali, Easter, Christmas, Black History Season and St. Patrick’s Day, and were the principle sponsor of East Fest 2022, a celebration of Eastern and Central European Culture. We marked the Platinum Jubilee of Elizabeth II with a culmination of celebratory events.
Local charities and organisations are also a focus for the centre, having invested over £100,000 into the Luton community in 2021. From weekly volunteering sessions at Luton Foodbank, to being the home of charity school uniform provider Level Trust’s Uniform Exchange, The Mall is proud to play its part.
Roy continues, “Our commitment to the community and supporting organisations such as Level Trust, Luton Foodbank and the Royal British Legion enables us to provide valuable help to those close by who need it most. The Luton Life podcast is another way of us providing a platform to these organisations”.
The celebrations marking the centre’s 50th birthday are no different. A community chest fund of £10,000 has benefited seven local organisations so far. The Tales & Trails literacy campaign during the summer of 2022 saw over a thousand children engage with a series of story-based events, culminating in the Autumn with local schools receiving funds and books from The Mall Luton to support children’s learning.
Concluding, Roy says, “It is quite simply woven into the fabric of the centre to support our local community wherever we can. That commitment will remain as we head into the future.”
“Our mission here at The Mall Luton is to support the local community, while promoting diversity and inclusivity”
Yet Luton’s Town Centre Masterplan is aiming to do just that. It is the most ambitious plan undertaken for the town centre.
Imagine having a town centre that excites you to visit. A place of attractive open spaces where anyone can enjoy being welcomed. Such thoughts would have seemed daft a few years ago, but steps have already been taken to turn these dreams into reality.
During the consultation and engagement period, one of the most popular ideas was the desire to see the River Lea flowing through the town centre again, complemented with green space and pocket parks. Hat Gardens, located on the corner of Bute Street and Silver Street on the site of the former car park, is the first of these and will be completed by the end of the year.
Part-paid for with the support of the European Regional Development Fund, the
rejuvenated space is a clean, green environment and the perfect place for people to meet up with family or friends, or even to spend a peaceful lunch break.
Where Victorian pubs and hat making factories once stood, there will be a small, tree-lined park with a stepped terrace down to the river. From there, you could look across the road and enjoy Our River, a huge photomosaic to honour those lost during the pandemic, and as a tribute to celebrate those hardworking people who kept Luton safe. There are plans to open up further sections of the river to create even more waterside space, inevitably leading to better air quality in the area.
Another advancement in the making is The Stage, a multi-use development. This will provide 405 new homes, community, retail and business space on the current Bute Street car park site. This project has received a £20 million cash
The Town Centre Masterplan’s key goals are to attract new businesses into the town to create and support new jobs, improve Luton’s public spaces, provide new and affordable activities and to nurture our heritage. We all want a town centre we can feel safe in and be proud of. This is what it will deliver.
injection from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, with major works commencing in 2023 through to completion in 2025. Engagement with local residents on design will start this autumn.
luton.gov.uk/letstalk
One of the most satisfying aspects of stepping out from under the Covid storm clouds was seeing the return of events to our town centre this year. Early in the year three street fests were a huge success, with a vegan and a wellness weekend allowing our minds, body and soul a little pampering as visitors came to various town centre locations. And the Chinese New Year celebrations brought colour, good food and cheer to brighten up a dull, wintery weekend.
Then St George’s Day returned to Market Hill and St George’s Square (where else!) with Luton
BID funding children’s entertainment for this special occasion that remains so dear to so many.
April saw the arrival of About Us in Luton, a spectacular
It is not the world’s biggest secret that it would take something hugely ambitious to give the town centre a bit of a makeover, let alone transform and regenerate it.
outdoor multimedia show in which 13.8 billion years of history was projected on to the walls of the Town Hall. June kicked off with the busiest weekend of action this year, as the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations merged into the return of the Luton International Carnival with its vibrancy, noise, costumes and colour.
Luton’s first ever Pride festival took place later in June, and was an astonishing success. Open to all, Pride celebrated Luton’s LBGTQ+ communities with a series of events and parties at various central locations, including Bute Street and the Hat Factory. And we’re not done yet. There are more events lined up that all the family can enjoy. Diwali celebrations in St George’s Square, Luton’s Christmas lights switch on and some smaller events at Hat Gardens to name a few.
No matter how much gloss these developments add to the town, dirty streets, anti-social behaviour and street drinking are often mentioned as blights of the town, and are cited by some as reasons why they visit the centre less frequently. It cannot be ignored that tackling these problems will be extremely challenging. Yet the council and their partners are implementing very much a ‘kitchen sink’ approach to these issues, having secured extra money to do so. It’s not just about enforcement but also working together to help
There is a new strategy for anti-littering to make the town centre more appealing, and civic campaigns and litter picks have increased. Response
fly-tipping proactively. £200,000 has been ring-fenced for additional town centre enforcement measures, which is integrated with partnership responses around prevention, intervention, education and engagement.
Big Change Luton is another initiative from Luton Homeless Partnership, who represent a collective of local services. It’s designed to encourage Lutonians to donate time, items or money to help people who have suffered homelessness to build a life away from the streets and to discourage people from handing out money to people who beg.
Then, of course, we await progress on the planning application for Luton Town’s proposed new stadium development at Power Court and the possible relocation and modernisation of the Central Library.
All these developments and more are part of the Luton 2040 vision of a thriving town centre where no-one lives in poverty, So jump on and enjoy the ride – no-one is being left behind!
With a town centre plan in place and funding secured, there is a lot of optimism for Luton’s future. For anyone who doesn’t know our town, we must show the very best of what Luton has to offer. We want to attract more businesses, bring new jobs and create reasons to visit, stay and spend time in Luton. It’s time to proudly tell Luton’s story.
Come along and tell us what you love about Luton so we can help others to discover what makes our town so special. Join us at an upcoming engagement sessioneveryone welcome - or complete our five-minute survey
The well-loved Flamingos perched in the Arndale in the 1990s have been found and will be on display later this year in Hat Gardens. Now we are on the hunt for the original 1970s Flamingos! Please get in touch if you know where they’ve flown off to!
Kristal and Austin married recently at the Calvary Church of God in Christ after he popped the question over a romantic indoor picnic. As is tradition in Caribbean weddings, the bridal and groom parties prepare separately and do not set eyes on each other until they arrive at the altar. The ceremony gets underway with hymns, prayers, declarations and then the vows.
Once the photographs were taken, the wedding party moved on to Stopsley Working Men’s Club for a big party. A traditional Caribbean spread of rice and peas, curry goat, fried and barbecued chicken, oxtail, coleslaw, fried dumplings, plus some African style dishes, awaited the guests. Then a mix of R&B, hip-hop, reggae, bashment, afro beats, grime and garage music ensured no-one left the dance floor!
Amardeep and Suman were introduced to each other through family members, building a bond over the phone before meeting in person. Their relationship grew following their first meeting, a lovely day out taking in the sights of London before a dinner date.
The couple were married at the Sikh Shri Guru Ravidass Sangat in Luton. Before the ceremony, the groom’s party met at the bride’s house for some Bhangra street dancing and a traditional cutting of the ribbon. On arrival at the Gurdwara, both families meet for the first time and exchange gifts, while the photographer gets clicking.
In the main ceremony guests are seated on the floor, listening to religious hymns sung by the priests. During this time, the bride and groom partake in the traditional marriage ceremony called the ‘Anand Karaj’. Both bow to the Sikh Holy scripture Guru Granth Sahib Ji, before walking around it to bind the bride and groom with the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib. To celebrate the union, the congregation sing more hymns, then join in and congratulate each other.
At the reception there was more Bhangra and party music and Indian-based cuisine.
Jane and Vickie met in G-A-Y Bar in London, in 2008. Introduced by a complete stranger, they got along so well they agreed to meet again the next day – this time without the help of the random matchmaker.
They were married in 2013 although at the time the couple were only allowed to enter into a civil partnership, with no form of religious content.
The wedding day was a spectacular success, filled with touching moments, magical
memories and, of course, a big party. Both brides wore suits, Vickie’s mum made a threetiered wedding cake, and families, friends and colleagues were all intermingled on the seating plan for the reception meal of traditional roast dinner. Dreams by Gabrielle was the couple’s chosen first dance choice as they took to the floor.
LGBTQ+ marriages were legalised in 2014 and Jane and Vickie converted their civil partnership at their local registry office the following year, albeit in a much lower key affair. They had both agreed nothing could top the original ceremony.
Sabrina and Zayn met at a wedding at Crescent Hall in Bury Park. When love blossomed the marriage proposal was made and the blessing of both families followed. Muslim weddings typically last five days. Starting with the two Dholki nights, where everyone comes together for songs and dance - apart from the groom. His turn comes next though, on the Mehndi night, where his hair gets oiled and he’s fed sweets. Next day is Baraat day, when the groom comes to collect his bride. Still apart at this point, the pair will sit in separate halls. The Maulana will then perform the ceremony by asking permission of firstly the bride, and the groom, to marry in front of two witnesses from each side. The optional gift is then given to the bride by the groom’s father, and it’s at this point they become married.
The second part of the wedding ceremony, called Walima, took place two days later in another location. This was a quieter gathering where some family members were invited for food.
Diwali is an annual event celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains. It originated in India and then evolved around the world, as people moved to different countries. It’s now seen as one of the biggest celebrations in the religious calendar. Diwali in Luton started off as a one day festival, this year it has expanded to three. There’s something for everyone with stage entertainment, dancers and singers, fireworks, a parade – and lots of food! It’s very colourful and people have had an opportunity to create lanterns to carry in the parade as well. Everyone is welcome.
Friday 21 and Saturday 22 October sees the town’s events at St George’s Square, Manchester Street and George Street.
Monday 24 October is the main day of Diwali, which is more for friends families and takes place in the temples.
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Kermit the Frog once sang 'It's Not Easy Being Green' – but how wrong could the awkward amphibian be? After all, the long-suffering Muppet Show character was originally cobbled together from a discarded spring coat, a pair of old jeans and two ping pong balls for his eyes.
With the cost of heating homes firmly in the spotlight, it is more important than ever to stem the flow of heat from your rooms.
Draught excluders are easily-made, elongated cushions that stop draughts getting into your house and prevent living spaces losing heat, simply by laying them at the base of closed doorways. And they won't cost you the earth.
• A piece of strong material longer than the width of your door. You could even recycle old clothes. Just cut the leg off an old pair of jeans, or the arm from a jumper.
• For filling use old socks, tights, polystyrene pellets or non-recyclable small plastic toys and objects (but no sharp edges!).
• Scissors and tape measure.
• Sewing machine or needle and thread.
• Tassels or buttons for decoration if you really fancy putting on a show.
Cut out two pieces of fabric (or a leg off an old pair of trousers). If you’re adding decorations like tassels or buttons, position, then sew them on.
Put the two pieces of fabric together, lining them up exactly. Make sure the patterned side of the fabric is on the inside to hide the stitches. Now start sewing!
Keep your stitches about 1cm from the edge of the fabric. Leave an opening so you can turn the material inside out, so the pattern is on the outside or for the trouser leg, sew up one end.
Stuff your cushion with the filling. Then stitch up the opening.
This year’s National Recycling Week theme was all about getting real about recycling. We all try to be good recyclers but we are all real people, with real lives and everyone sometimes throws without checking. Unfortunately wrong items can spoil the load and make a whole lorry un-recyclable. So make sure you check the locator to check what you can recycle and where. Recyclenow.com/ recycle-an-item
Dead batteries thrown away in the general rubbish, or mixed with other recyclable materials, can be very dangerous. They are called ‘zombie batteries’ because they have a habit of coming back from the dead and can terrorise recycling and waste facilities. Put your old batteries to good use. All batteries can be recycled for free at Progress Way or Eaton Green Road tidy tips or in larger shops that sell batteries, such as supermarkets and DIY shops. You could also consider buying rechargeable batteries. takecharge.org.uk
Every day, British households bin over 18,000 tonnes of uneaten food. The cost of producing, transporting and then letting it rot creates greenhouse gases and a very unwelcome partysized carbon footprint. It also wastes money.
Thankfully, one of the many solutions to this is... PIZZA. It is so easy to knock up a home made one from stale bread or baguettes and left over ingredients. You will find almost everything in your fridge can be used as a topping.
• baguette cut in half, or bread crusts
• garlic cloves
• olive oil 2tbs
• tomatoes (or cream cheese or pesto)
• leftovers; chicken, salami, peppers, sweetcorn, mushrooms, tomatoes, onion, tuna – anything!
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 200C (180C fan oven).
2. Cut a garlic clove in half and rub over the bread, or crush and put on a thin layer
3. Drizzle olive oil and bake for 5 minutes.
4. Peel, chop and simmer tomatoes until thickened into a puree and spread over the bread.
5. Add your toppings and then cover in cheese. Give some of your old spice jars a run-out, too.
6. Bake for 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, and serve.
If you have an old bike you no longer need, you can donate it to a great council scheme to get bikes back on the road and into the hands of people who could really use them. It also helps improve air quality in the town!
There are drop-off points at Unit 42, Kingsway depot, Mon-Fri 9am-4pm.
Or, they can be taken to either of the town’s local tidy tips on Eaton Green Rd or Progress Way.
The bikes are donated to members of the community once refurbished. safercycling@luton.gov.uk
You can apply for a number of grants available from the government and energy companies to help improve the energy efficiency of your homes.
We are working towards Luton becoming a net zero town by 2040.
Transport makes up 22% of the total emissions in Luton and to help achieve the net zero vision, we need a shift in the way we travel in and around the town.
Cycling and walking are excellent forms of active travel and the council has a number of initiatives to help encourage people to cycle and walk more. luton.gov.uk/sustainabletravel
Energy-saving improvements can make homes more efficient, keeping a lid on rising prices and tackling the number of homes falling into fuel poverty.
The Sustainable Warmth grant scheme is backed by the government and designed to fund energy-efficiency upgrades for residents who are most likely to be impacted by the high cost of bills.
To find out more about the scheme and all the current efficiency grant schemes available, visit www.luton.gov.uk/energy-advice or contact 01582 54 6789. Details for each grant scheme includes:
• eligibility criteria
• energy efficiency improvement measures available
• application process
Every degree you turn your room thermostat up increases your heating bills by 10%. Have you thought of turning it back down a few notches and putting a jumper on?
Always defrost frozen food in your fridge to help keep the fridge temperature down – and never put warm or hot food in the fridge or freezer.
James Cunliffe is a Luton-based journalist, podcaster and host of the vbah.co.uk and thelutonian.com sport and culture websites. Luton Life invited him to tell you what they’re all about.
Vandalism Begins at Home are proud Lutonians, but you’ll have heard the tired old tunes about our town.
Luton is changing, but still, they persist. Sometimes from within. Vandalism really does begin at home, some might say.
Well, we’re mad as hell and we’re not going to take it anymore!
We see plenty of our neighbours, friends and families determined to be the change they want to see in the world. For us it’s music and Luton deserves a place on the map. Holding a mirror to those deepseated and destructive attitudes about our hometown was the first step. Vandalism Begins at Home is the name of our collective. Now it’s time to build and help raise reputations.
For five years – starting as a music and arts fanzine – we’ve championed new music and the creative forces in our town and beyond. Now, with the same fiercely independent, do-it-yourself spirit, this new music grassroots community has grown to include an independent record label, gig promotions and a weekly podcast. No funding, no sponsors, just passion and heart.
Vandalism Begins at Home is not alone. There’s a new rock music revolution bubbling up, with Luton acts such as SOURDOUGH, Regressive Left, JW Paris,
The Palpitations, Ali MacQueen and Loci all coming to the fore. Music is food for the soul. They’re the cooks and we’ll take you to your table.
And one of the places where the home fires burn brightest is The Castle Tavern. Luton still has no dedicated music venue, which for a town of our size is something that needs to change, but this is no longer just a town centre pub, it’s our spiritual HQ and the feather in our cap for live music.
Just recently there, in September, Luton celebrated its only threeday music festival, Castlefest, which has been running for more than a decade and is the baby of our compadres cut from the same cloth, LutonLive/s.
On our Vandalism Begins at Home Radio podcast – released every Thursday on Mixcloud – the group’s chief, Paul Mercer, said of the music scene in our town: “Before Covid, we were getting somewhere. We all felt this kind of surge of things moving forward. There was this air of hope and optimism when it came to how things were going. It’s slowly coming back.”
Vandalism Begins at Home is proud to play a part of that and we were honoured to curate the opening night of Castlefest, with some of the bands that have lit up Luton this year – Points, Owes, Dois Padres, Luna Rosa and SOURDOUGH.
The latter are the local rebelrousers that have just let rip with their debut art-punk EP, ‘Outlet’, released on our Vandalism Begins at Home Records. The label launched in lockdown 2020 with the noisenik trio’s ethereally titillating single, ‘Expected’. The mission then, and now, 19 releases later, is to provide a platform for local artists we’re passionate about.
With your support, we can all beat the drum for Luton.
Diwali in Luton
Celebrate the festival of lights with live performances by Indian and Bhangra artists and performers, amazing stalls, tasty food places and workshops, all in the town centre.
and 22 October 12 noon to 10pm
St George’s Square
Free
Some highlights of activities and events taking place in your town
Live music all day; Feel Shame, Glower, Away with the Sea, Winter Hotel, Last Existence, Depravity, Viatorem, Swarmed and more
Saturday 5 November
11am to 12 midnight
The Castle Tavern www.facebook.com/ Lutonlivespromotions
£8 advance or £10 on the door
Vinyl Revelations presents:
Luton town becomes SKA TOWN for a night with King Hammond supported by Easydread and Ska DJs. Strictly 18+
Friday 11 November
7pm to 11pm
Hat Factory Arts Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on
£17.50/£15 advance
It’s 1997 and London is about to have its last daytime rave, as British South Asians flock for their last taste of rebellion.
Wednesday 16 November
4.30pm and 7.30pm
Hat Factory Arts Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on £12/£10 advance
Artisan Food, Arts and Crafts Fair taking place every second Sunday of the month.
Sunday 13 November
11am to 5pm
Stockwood Discovery Centre www.facebook.com/ events/1005777683661570
Free entry, products are on sale
Two short Kathak dance pieces written and choreographed Amina Khayyam Dance (AKDC):
YOU&ME – In a same sex relationship, an ordinary guy wrestles to confront all that prevents him being with his lover.
BIRD – A stage sequel to AKDC’s critically acclaimed digital film
Catch The Bird Who Won’t Fly –began in a workshop with a women’s community group where a participant asked “What happens to a woman when she runs away from domestic abuse?”
Friday 18 November
7:30pm to 9pm
Hat Factory Arts Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on
£12/£10
Age 10+
Delve into worlds far from here discovering the magic of reading at this brand new family book club in collaboration with Formy Books.
Saturday 19 November and Saturday 3 December 12 noon to 3pm
Hat Factory Arts Centre www.formybooks.com/ Free
The popular spoken word regular features Joolz Denby as headliner this month.
Thursday 8 December
7pm until late
Hat Factory Arts Centre £10/£8 conc
Christmas films
Castlefest UK
Presents: Christmas Party
Live music from Novustory, supported by Scruffy Bear and more to be announced
Saturday 16 December
7.30pm until late
The Castle Tavern www.facebook.com/ castlefestukofficial
£8 advance or £10 on the door
Cinema Classics: Die Hard Tuesday 6 December
7.30pm to 10pm
£8
Film Club:
Muppets Christmas Carol The Muppets perform the classic Dickens tale. Rated PG. Saturday 3 December 10:30am to 12:30pm
£3.50 or 4 for £12
Saturday 5 November 2022
Popes Meadow, Old Bedford Road
6.30pm onwards, entertainment from 7pm
The FREE ENTRY display will start at 7.30pm
Fairground rides for children, hot food, snacks and drinks
Principal Sponsor
www.luton.gov.uk/fireworks
Help manage this beautiful County Wildlife Site, look after nature and meet other members of your community
First Monday
10am to 3pm
Bushmead Community Hub www.wildlifebcn.org/ bradgers-hill-wilder-futures
Free
Eat, Drink and Create every first Thursday of the month at Hat District Lates! 16+
First Thursday 5pm to 9pm
The Hat District www.culturetrust.com/whats-on
Free
A night of creativity with drinking and drawing. Strictly 18+
Second Thursday 7.30pm to 11pm
Hat Factory Arts Centre www.culturetrust.com/whats-on
Join resident MC Jake Pickford for an evening of stand-up comedy from the nation’s up and coming talent. 16+
Third Friday
7.30pm to 10pm
Hat Factory Arts Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on
There are a number of activities taking place across the town, please visit www.luton.gov.uk/ BHM for the full list and details.
Saturday 22 October
6pm start
£6
Join this friendly and relaxed class with tutor Matt Burden (MA Visual Communication, Royal College of Art)
Last Tuesday
2pm to 4pm
Little Red Arts www.eventbrite.co.uk /e/luton-life-drawingtickets-328956817697
£15
Bedfordshire’s biggest disability nightclub. Strictly 18+
Last Tuesday
7pm to 10pm
Hat Factory Arts Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on
£5/free carer ticket
£5
At the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month – we will remember them. Residents are welcome to join the council in observing the Two Minute Silence at 11am in front of the Town Hall.
Friday 11 November
11am
Luton Town Hall
An opportunity to join the council, faith leaders, armed forces and emergency services to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms, and those who continue to do so. All ages.
Sunday 13 November 10am-11.30am
Luton Town Hall www.luton.gov.uk/ RemembranceDay
Venue 360, The Riverside Suite, Gipsy Lane, Luton £75 per person
Strictly Caribbean
Sunday 30 October
6pm start
Chaul End Community Centre
Exhibition – the Royal West African Frontier Force in the Second World War
14 October to 20 November Monday to Saturday, 11am to 5.30pm
Suite 47, The Mall, Luton Free
Come to Luton Town Centre to join the celebrations and Christmas Lights switch on at this popular annual event.
Father Christmas visits Wardown House
Nature Conservation
Wardown Park Volunteer Garden
Wardown Park Volunteer Gardeners
Saturday 26 November
12 noon to 6.30pm George Street/ Luton Town Centre www.luton.gov.uk/Christmas Free
The Mall’s Giving Grotto is back, raising funds for local charities Luton Foodbank and Level Trust.
Weekends, 26 Nov-17 Dec, Daily 17-24 Dec Mall opening hours
A magical Christmas experience awaits the whole family this Christmas.
3-23 December
11am to 3pm
Wardown House, Museum and Gardens www.culturetrust.com/whats-on
Cost: £15/£6
Christmas Carol
The Muppets perform the classic Dickens tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit. Rated PG.
Saturday 3 December 10:30am to 12:30pm
Memorial Park
The Mall Luton themall.co.uk/LutonChristmas Costs vary, visit website
Stockwood Illuminated Stockwood’s annual illuminations throughout the discovery centre.
2-23 December 4.30pm to 7.30pm Stockwood Discovery Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on Costs vary, visit website
Hat Factory Arts Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on
Cost: £3.50 or 4 for £12
Luton Irish Forum Christmas social Annual Christmas get together.
Thursday 8 December 12 noon to 4pm
Celtic Club, Cobham Street www.lutonirishforum.org/ whatson £6 members, £8 non-members
To increase the uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine in Luton the council was awarded funding by central government. This COVID-19 Vaccine Community Fund (CVCF) was for community-led project bids in Luton that supported the work of the council and partners to increase awareness and improve the take up of vaccinations.
African and Black Caribbean, Eastern European and Gypsy and Roma, where current levels of vaccination are lower.
One group, the Bangladesh Youth League, based at the Centre for Youth and Community Development (CYCD) in Leagrave Road, were successful in their bid. The programme, led by Tahir Khan, acting Director, involved recruiting ten peer motivators to engage with the community, creating a short awareness video by young people to promote the importance of having the vaccine within the 12-24 year group. They also held vaccine outreach events with the NHS Team on site along with a mobile wellbeing clinic to deliver and discuss the vaccinations.
The Bangladesh Youth League organised four vaccination events, one which coincided with the
Platinum Jubilee. That event attracted over 900 people, and a community fun day attended by
The take up of the vaccine by the young age group concerned was not high, but people used the facilities for general medical check-ups that were also on offer.
Over 10,000 leaflets were distributed door to door and were also given out at the local Mosques, reaching out to thousands of people.
Overall, the activities raised a high level of awareness of the COVID-19 vaccines. A number of calls were received following the leaflet drop and the digital publicity.
The development of the peer motivators group provided an opportunity to continue this work beyond the
project period which was April to July 2022 and the peer motivators continued to raise awareness of the vaccines with organised workshops in youth club sessions.
This piece of work has provided a platform where the group, the council and partners can work together in the future to raise awareness of the importance of having the vaccine.
Need transport to and from a vaccination site? Contact the Luton FREE Vaxi Cab service www.Luton.gov.uk/covid19-vaccine
In the 1960s Luton was a thriving, industrial town and most local engineering companies were competing to entice school leavers. Vauxhall Motors was one of many who attracted the young and eager.
“Son, you’ll get an education that will set you up for life with an apprenticeship!’ How true his words would turn out to be,” said Steve Costen, who did his apprenticeship with Vauxhall between 1965 and 1970.
“My VM apprenticeship and the General Motors Institute (GMI) Scholarship Programme that followed has carried me through three exciting careers, spanning 1965 to 2014”.
A Meccano set sparked an interest in all things mechanical. Yet a career in aviation was scuppered when he discovered he was colour blind. So he signed into a five-year, indentured apprenticeship instead. “I put on fresh overalls, clocked on and, with a file and hacksaw, started basic fitting in ‘P’ block under the watchful eye of our instructors.”
Luton town’s motto, ‘Scientiae et labori detur’, roughly translating as ‘By science and industry’ signifies our heritage as an innovative and industrious town.
“We hammered, turned, welded, ground and filed every type of metal that could find its way into a car, van or truck. In those days, ‘newbies’ had to deal with many mischievous initiations, including talcum powder in our new tea mugs, and overall pockets filled with cleaning fluid!”
“We made a lot of our own tools, and I know that quite a few VM exapprentices still have theirs - 50 years on and proud of them.”
“Vauxhall produced many of its own components in the 1960s and we were able to learn about machining, spot-welding, painting, chrome-plating and the assembly of the vehicles, and everything that went in them.”
After nearly 14 months Steve was selected for a ‘Technical Apprenticeship.’ This included learning about manufacturing methods, plant layout, and works standards. He gained the Ordinary and Higher National Certificates in Mechanical Engineering. During the final year he spent one month in each of seven departments which gave him an overall knowledge of how Vauxhall functioned as a company, providing him with a network of future contacts.
Steve’s next stop was Flint, Michigan, where he participated in the GM Overseas Scholarship Programme. As one of the youngest scholars, he headed out with seven other men for two intense and memorable years, studying and working.
“We were sponsored, the tuition was free and we received salaries while studying. It consisted of 24 months alternating six weeks studying at the GM Institute, then six working at a Co-operative GM Plant, where I gained work experience in the same field as I would be working on return to the UK.
“The courses were diverse, covering every aspect of manufacturing. The standard of teaching was first class. Above all, Vauxhall provided a selfdevelopment environment that was uniquely challenging and engaging.”
Vauxhall set Steve up for life. His next career, up until the 1990s, was in the Operations Division of Shell International Exploration and Production, living in, amongst other places, Oman, Brunei and Turkey.
“What started out as a five-year indentured apprenticeship with Vauxhall had utterly and completely changed my life – forever.”
a diverse economy
years in key sectors
advanced manufacturing. One example is Leonardo, one of the UK’s leading aerospace companies
one of biggest suppliers of defence and security equipment to the UK MOD.
Meet Elin Esnard, a Third Year Technical Apprentice working at their Capability Green site. Yet what made her choose an apprenticeship as a career route?
“When studying for GCSEs, I was predicted excellent grades. My school advised me on going to sixth form as a stepping stone towards university. However, I started to underperform due to the stress of A-Levels, and it impacted my mental health,” said Elin. “Whilst this was going on, I had just been diagnosed with dyslexia, and was still trying to find out how I learn best and identify my coping mechanisms.
“That summer, I did a week’s work experience at Leonardo - it inspired me. I went back to college, but I thought, ‘I am never going to get to work for a company like that.’”
Having decided that university wasn’t for her, Elin worked full-time again –yet still dreamt of being an engineer.
“I looked into apprenticeships and they almost seemed too good to be true. I would go to college one day a week to get professional qualifications, and be applying everything I learnt to the work, which would reinforce my knowledge and keep me engaged and motivated. And I would still be earning an income!”
As a technical apprentice, her role is varied. Elin is currently completing a series of three-month placements across the business, and one day per week in college.
“I have also been on placements where I have worked with teams that need to be on site. So I have been able to work in the labs with the kit first-hand.”
Asked what has been the best thing about her apprenticeship, Elin said, “I get to apply what I learn in my everyday job. It’s easier to learn things whilst I’m doing them, so the structure of the apprenticeship is tailored to suit my strengths.
“Everyone is so genuinely happy to help. Whether I’m completing assignments, or struggling with a new job concept or idea, everyone is so willing to share their knowledge.”
Elin is obviously doing something right as her hard graft not only vanquished the many challenges she’s faced on her journey, but also helped scoop the Leonardo award for England Electronics Apprentice of the Year (Second Year), and UK Electronics Apprentice of the Year (Second Year).
Would she recommend an apprenticeship to people looking to make that first step in their career?
Elin emphatically answered, “100% yes! I have done GCSEs and A-levels, but my apprenticeship allows me to gain qualifications that I can apply directly in a real-life working environment.”
You can find out about apprenticeships by visiting www.apprenticeships.gov.uk
Luton Adult Learning (LAL) offers you pathways to education, employment and setting personal goals – even if you thought the gate was closed.
We provide adult learning to help you find a new job, start an apprenticeship, build your confidence or support your children at school.
Our training:
• Apprenticeships, including Customer Services, Adult Social Care, Early Years and Childcare, Support Teaching and Learning and Leadership and Management.
• ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Function Skills English, maths and ICT. GCSE English and maths
• Family Learning - for those who want to support their children’s learning and development
• Community Learning - a variety of non-accredited courses that will boost your confidence, reduce loneliness, improve your wellbeing and help you access further learning opportunities
• Multiply - numeracy courses to build your confidence with numbers
Are you unemployed, returning to work or looking for your first role? Looking to get back into education or training and interested in learning new skills? Want to build up your confidence or learn new skills or improve your English and Maths?
Our classes will provide you with the preparation for employment that you need, including:
• CV and Cover letter writing
• how to be at your best in an interview
• improve existing skills
• improve digital and IT skills
• receive details of vacancies from local businesses
Passport to Employment courses are also available for those over 16 as part of the Building Better Opportunities programme.Whatever your story is; for example, you may be unemployed, just looking to add a few strings to your bow, or wanting to upskill so that you can change career or gain promotion then the chances are that LAL has already benefited someone like you, Anna, Adam or Zara.
Anna’s learning journey began when she joined one of our ESOL classes after finding it difficult to communicate within her newly-adopted community. Talking to classmates gave her the confidence to pass entry exams in reading, writing, speaking and listening, and inspired her to enrol on further LAL courses, including childcare, in which she now works.
Adam contacted LAL after suffering from mental health issues during lockdown. A self-confessed technophobe, he conquered fears that had previously held him back by embarking on a basic IT course, coupled with a Mental Health and Wellbeing class. Adam feels he has reconnected with society now and is in the process of selecting his next LAL course.
Zara has a sight impairment, which presents challenges in life that she is determined to overcome. LAL provided her with a Functional Skills English course, and has dedicated a learning support assistant, Caroline, to assist her. Caroline was once a learner herself, yet has now secured a job at LAL. This helps her totally understand Zara’s needs so she can be a full participant in the lessons.
We are always offering new courses, so visit our website to get the latest information www.lutonacl.ac.uk
For more information and to book your free place, call 01582 490033 or email passport@lutonacl.ac.uk
Council has launched a new Supported Lodgings scheme where you can share your home with a young person aged between 16 and 25 years, with the aim of helping them to build and develop the confidence and necessary skills for independent living.
As a host you don’t require any formal qualifications, yet must have a suitable spare bedroom.
You should be able to offer nonintrusive support and equip young people with the skills they need to succeed and move on to living independently in their own home. In return, the council will provide hosts with an income of £200 per week, a start-up grant to purchase essential room furnishings, as well as training and support.
This scheme is part of a range of options for young people preparing to leave care, who need a little extra support.
If you’re interested in becoming a supported lodgings host call 01582 547633, email
or for more details visit www.luton.gov.uk/supportedlodgings
support a young person in your home and help
assist them to lead an independent
a Supported Lodgings host.
