Luton Life Summer 2024

Photo: Anna Lee

Re-imagined o ces for your re-imagined business?

Coming soon – a historic Luton building architecturally transformed and re-imagined for modern workspace requirements.

Give your business a new freshness and energy in this beautifully re-designed interior to one of Luton’s most iconic buildings, when it opens later this year. Named a er the Luton Town football legend, Bob Morton, Morton House will o er a variety of suites available on inclusive packages for a 12-month licence fee term.

Welcome to Luton Life

Welcome to Luton Life – your community magazine packed with features on all things Luton from the past, present and future.

It’s hard to imagine a bigger kickstart to the summer than the late May Bank Holiday Weekend. A cast of thousands ensured that BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend and Luton’s 48th International Carnival defied the thunderstorms to shower love across our town. We scraped local artists JW Paris and Ryussi back down from Cloud Nine to get their reactions about playing at Stockwood Park. Take a look at our extensive coverage in a four-page special, beginning overleaf (pages 4-7).

Our climate change section (p1011) is also packed with features with a decidedly green-fingered tinge, as rewilding and Luton In Bloom take root. It is headed up with an important new campaign

Located on Kimpton Road opposite Luton Dart Parkway Station, providing excellent public transport links and car parking (including EV charging points). For further information, please contact letting agents:

called CATCh, which is designed to give your local schools all the tools they need to create the next generation of eco-warriors.

Our Step Forward Luton What’s On pages (p15-19) are brimming with information on upcoming arts and community events coming to town. Whether you’re seeking food, music or fun there is something for everyone in these listings.

If you like to get out and about, but don’t like getting your hands dirty, then fear not as Luton’s Parks and Countryside Services will provide the gloves when you join one of their dedicated volunteering teams (p26). You can also find out how to organise your

very own kids’ street party, with a little help from your friends at the council (p27).

Our regular Made in Luton feature spotlights retailer Andy Chesham, who reflects on Vinyl Revelations’ 30th anniversary party (p31), closing out the most vibrant Luton Life ever (until the next one!). 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 at lutonlife@luton.gov.uk Bye for now then, take care of each other. We are one town, one Luton.

The Luton Life Team

In pictures

Have you taken any pictures that you think deserve a spot on our In pictures section? Email them to lutonlife@luton.gov.uk

If you would like to advertise in Luton Life please email marketing@luton.gov.uk

If you have a complaint or comment about any editorial content which appears in these pages, please call 01582 547402 or email lutonlife@luton.gov.uk

Advertising disclaimer Advertisements appearing in this publication are accepted in good faith by Luton Council which accepts no responsibility for the accuracy thereof, nor does the inclusion of any advertisement imply any recommendation by Luton Council, as to the services, products or facilities offered by the advertisers.

FIELD OF DREAMS

‘Luton, you were perfect. Thank you’, glowed Coldplay's 'X' account, less than two hours after one of the most memorable events in the town's history had finally drawn to a close.

A festival which was four months in the making had produced three days of magical, musical merriment of the kind never witnessed in these parts before.

Coldplay, and their lead singer Chris Martin in particular, had ensured BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend ended with bang - and we’re not just talking about the fireworks. Just ask any of the 35,000 punters packed into Stockwood Park for that final act on Sunday evening, who were collectively transformed into a 400-metre wide plasmic, pulsing, luminescent organism before vanishing back into the night.

Yet it took a cast of thousands to produce so many cherished memories for the festival-goers that weekend. First, the people of Luton and the surrounding areas must take a bow. Those especially affected were the local residents around the park who had endured the necessary road closures and restrictions in generous spirit.

“It’s absolutely amazing. I think some of the residents have changed their minds now. Luton doesn’t get much so it’s nice to have this. We need more of these,”

said Bella, a Farley Hill resident who lives opposite the park. Three generations of her family were assembled in her front garden, where the Main Stage was clearly audible. Bella’s only complaint?

“It’s not loud enough!”

We would need a whole magazine to name check all the cogs which turned the wheel so smoothly. Yet

Festival Maker Noreen told us,

it’s hard to imagine proceedings running with such fun and fluency without Luton Rising’s green army of Festival Makers. Some 240 volunteers gave up over 3,500 hours of their time to guide festival-goers to the park over the three days. Participants also had to attend training and briefing sessions in the run-up to the event.

PARK LIVE

RYUSSI

Many of us have fantasised about playing a stonking DJ set at a major festival in our home town, then leave the stage to be mobbed by adoring supporters. Yet Ryussi, who has graced the terrace at Ibiza’s iconic Amnesia club, is far too cool to do anything other than take that in their stride.

The former-Luton Sixth Form College student, whose real name is Zoe Thorpe, looked nerveless while banging out progressive house and melodic beats, many of which were their own material. The

DJ/producer’s emotional release arrived when they were reunited with lifelong friends, following the impressive Saturday stint on the BBC Introducing Stage.

“It was nice to see the reception. I was just excited, like a little energiser bunny! These are people I have grown up with for years - family,” said Zoe. “It’s a different kind of emotion because the people who have come to see you know who you are as a person. They’ve seen you grow, so it’s a win for everyone. That’s what carried me through it. When you’ve got people cheering you on and want to see you do well, it’s an unbeatable feeling.”

It seems inconceivable that such an emerging talent will not go on to even bigger things, and

Zoe told us, “I feel like there’s a few eyes on me at the moment, supporting what I’m doing. So hopefully it leads into its own natural trajectory. I’ll put in the little baby steps in the meantime.”

www.campsite.bio/ryussi

SETLIST

Ryussi - Means of Change

Ryussi - Nostalgia

DUSKY - Up In Smoke

Ryussi - Pleasures

Cozzy D - Make the World

Go House

Ryussi - Forest Creatures

Mason Maynard - Boundaries

Ryussi - Greener Pastures

Ryussi - Tales from the Pagoda

“It’s tiring but fun, but it makes it worthwhile that your efforts have been appreciated. I’ve always volunteered for local events so this was a no-brainer. We do it because we were born here and want to represent Luton in a positive light for everyone who’s coming to the Big Weekend. We want to show them what Luton’s about. It’s been appreciated by the local residents too, as volunteers lining the routes from the stations and car parks has caused them less disruption.” Noreen’s accomplice for the day, Milosz, added, “Having volunteering on my university application is pretty good. It’s been nice.”

JW PARIS

Local indie rockers JW Paris are still feeling the Louvre after their Triomphe-ant appearance at the Big Weekend (okay no more rubbish puns, we promise). Luton Life caught up with guitarist Danny Collins a few days after their Sunday morning set on the BBC Introducing Stage went down a storm; almost literally as the band narrowly avoided

the subsequent downpour which soaked the lunchtime festival-goers to the bone.

Fellow Lutonian Aaron Forde (bass/vocals) and London-based drummer Gemma Clarke make up the trio (who are actually named after a doomed 20th-century diamond dealer rather than the French capital). They hit the national headlines after drafting in 18-year-old trumpeter Joshua Bowman, from Stopsley, to join them on stage for their last song.

“We managed to get on BBC News so our mums liked that!” said Danny. “We’re still on Cloud Nine. There was joy in every moment we were on stage, and that feeling hasn’t come down.”

JW Paris are respected grafters on the national music venue circuit, and well-known to punters at the Vandalism Begins At Home nights at the Castle Bar. Danny added, “I have played every pub in Luton. Even the ones which have shut down, like The Well and Charlie Brown’s. The only place we hadn’t played was Stockwood Park. We used to play football up there! What’s key now is to stride through summer, keeping that momentum up with the next single.”

@jwparismusic

SETLIST

Electric Candle Light

Who Are You

Royalty

You’ve Got Me

Runaway

Geeks and Freaks

Favourite Thing

Luton Life invited two local budding

WRITE OFF A GREENER PARTY

Jennifer Brooks, from Bushmead, is a second year student at Birmingham University.

‘Six-time Brit award winner comes to Luton and not for the airport’…who’d have believed that? South London’s RAYE came to Stockwood Park and felt immediately at home. Gracing the stage barefoot in a stunning evening dress, with a full jazz band and choir. She did not disappoint. BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend made magic happen and dreams come true.

She made it clear from the beginning about her excitement and her nerves in performing to a crowd of such scale. Yet from her first song her nerves were nowhere to be

Ella Hughes, from Barnfield, is a student at the University of Exeter.

This weekend provided many with the chance to see a wide variety of talented musicians and vocalists, the kind of event not usually so easily accessible to those of us living in Luton. Two of the acts I enjoyed most were at the smaller BBC Radio 1 New Music stage: Olivia Dean and the headliner, Beabadoobee. Olivia Dean was dazzling, with a welcoming and charismatic energy to match her powerful voice.

The touching song ‘Carmen’ is a tribute to her grandmother, who immigrated to the UK from Guyana. This was a particularly heart-warming part of her set, and reflected a story

seen. Her theatrical nature radiated throughout her performance and the crowd followed by dancing and singing along. The stage was clearly all her’s.

RAYE’s past negative experiences within the music industry directly influenced her decision to become an independent artist. And she used her moment in the spotlight to give her support to those affected by sexual assault.

‘You Don’t Know Me’ was a personal surprise, as Jax Jones had performed it earlier, so I thought she may avoid it. I’m glad she didn’t as many in the crowd knew the song inside out.

The energy levels on stage and in the crowd never dropped. She has proven to be an all-round performer, touching all emotions. From making her audience dance and sing along, to bringing them to tears. She blends

jazz, R&B, pop and soul into her talented performance. To see her do this in my home town was a once in a lifetime experience. RAYE has shown how this is only the beginning of her headlining festivals.

SETLIST

The Thrill is Gone Hard Out Here

Oscar Winning Tears Ice Cream Man

You Don’t Know Me

Mascara

Then, just when you thought the party was over, up popped Luton’s 48th International Carnival to reinvigorate any tired legs, arms and minds following BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend at Stockwood Park. The two spectacular Bank Holiday celebration events combined seamlessly to hand Luton’s residents a long weekend that will live forever in our memories.

Thankfully, the storm clouds which gathered over the town centre failed to rain on our parade, sparing us instead some very light drizzle which soon gave way to the more traditional Bank Holiday Monday sunshine.

This year, organisers UK Centre for Carnival Arts took a distinctly greener approach to previous carnivals. All but one of the colourful floats were powered by electric, or participants using manpower to push and pull them

by hand. Some of them were even made out of donated supermarket trollies. Even the speakers booming out music from all corners of the globe were electric and rechargeable.

Many of the elaborate and exotic costumes on display had been recycled or updated from previous carnivals, yet they looked as dynamic as ever, wowing the crowds who lined up along the parade route as it snaked across the town centre.

near and dear to many of us who were raised in Luton as second or thirdgeneration migrants.

Next was Beabadoobee, whose performance was fitting both as a headliner and as a wind-down towards the end of the day. Her discography spans from indie and alternative rock to bedroom pop, combining her distinctive soft vocals with hazy guitar chords and catchy riffs. Most of her songs provide the chance to both rockout and relax at once.

Her set allowed her to showcase her skills live, playing most of her songs on various acoustic and electric guitars, and her voice blending seamlessly with the talents of her band.

Some standouts were the tracks from her 2022 album Beatopia, which are whimsical and comforting.

And ‘She Plays Bass’ was especially memorable, as Bea and her bassist

Luton officiallyhas its own Monopoly edition

Step Forward Luton’s mission is simple – to champion the diverse offerings of Luton and showcase what truly makes our town special. From the best things to do, places to visit, foodie gems, and much, much more – we’re your go-to source for all things great about our town.

Discover the latest news, unmissable events, and more exclusive Luton content at place.stepforwardluton.co.uk

The brand-new Monopoly Luton edition has been released, featuring the town’s most loved landmarks. The launch took place at the Luton DART station, bringing together the Mayor, charity representatives, business owners, and Monopoly executives. A giant version of the Luton Monopoly board was revealed, showcasing the selected landmarks, with Luton Town FC claiming the ‘Mayfair’ spot and London Luton Airport landing on ‘Park Lane’. Last year, locals voted for the landmarks they wanted to see featured, resulting in over 30 sites being included, such as The Hat Factory, Luton Town Hall, and the flamingos in Hat Gardens. The Community Chest cards feature three local charities: Keech Hospice Care, Animals at Risk Shelter, and Luton Foodbank, highlighting Luton’s generosity.

Mac Pajka, Co-Deputy Chair of the Step Forward Luton Ambassador board, said, “With all the spotlight on Luton, opportunities like this are now coming our way, and we couldn’t be happier. It’s brilliant to see wonderful spots like Wardown Park and my local Leagrave station on the board. Now we have a game that showcases the many beautiful places right here in our town.”

The Monopoly Luton edition is available at Brown Books (High Town), Vinyl Revelations (Cheapside), or online at Amazon. It is a must-have for anyone who loves Luton, whether you’ve lived here all your life or are visiting and want to discover the town’s gems.

Luton shines in the spotlight with BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend

Once again Luton has captured the nation’s attention, this time thanks to Radio 1’s Big Weekend. At Step Forward Luton, we made the most of this incredible opportunity.

We had a DJ at Hat Gardens featuring music from Big Weekend artists, so everyone could be part of the excitement, even if they weren’t attending the event.

To welcome visitors, we decorated our town to make it sparkle and set up a free photobooth at the festival filled with Luton-themed props from carnival headwear to boater hats.

This event has demonstrated that Luton is capable of hosting large-scale, epic events.

It has highlighted the abundance of talent in our town. Most importantly, it has given us the opportunity to show 100,000 visitors what Luton is truly about: a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming town that deserves more recognition than it receives.

Tastes of the town - discover Luton’s local eats

viralYouTubers video puts Luton on the map

International YouTube channel ‘Yes Theory’ has gone viral with a heartfelt advert showcasing the hidden gems and community spirit of Luton. The video, which now has over 1 million views, follows the ‘Yes Theory’ team as they explore the town, meet residents, and challenge misconceptions about our town. Filmmakers Thomas Dajer and Staffan Taylor, along with UK YouTubers Max Fosh and Zac Alsop, visited the Stockwood Discovery Centre, attended a Hatters game at Kenilworth Road, and sampled the ‘best kebab’ in town. Dajer found Luton ‘charming’ and ‘welcoming’, while local residents Carl Connelly and Cameron Mullane expressed appreciation for the opportunity to showcase their hometown.

The advert has struck a chord with viewers worldwide, sparking an outpouring of positivity in the comments section. Fans shared personal experiences and newfound appreciation for Luton, with one viewer feeling patriotic about their hometown for the first time.

Since their visit, Yes Theory has been reflecting on their experience on Instagram, simply stating, “We Love Luton,” while filmmaker Staffan Taylor added, “I miss Luton already!”

The advert really drives home how there’s so much more to Luton than meets the eye. It’s all about our tight-knit community and the little hidden gems that make us special. And it’s also why changing the narrative about Luton is key to our town’s future success.

Watch the full video on YouTube.

Top it off, High Town

When we saw the sun glistening from a curtain of gold mirrored beads in High Town, it really caught our eye. ‘Top it off’, a family and friend run restaurant serving up a Caribbean culinary heaven has recently opened and we knew we had to pop in and sample the goods.

Yasmin, Kyron, and Rheiss, are passionate about bringing authentic Caribbean flavours to Luton’s diverse community. They’ve made sure their menu is 100% halal, so everyone can enjoy their tasty offerings.

Their chicken curry from the ‘From Da Pot’ menu was absolutely delicious. Served with perfectly cooked rice and peas and a side of refreshing coleslaw, it was bursting with flavour.

For Jerk chicken fans, their ‘From Da Pit’ selection is a must-try. The chicken is marinated overnight and cooked to perfection over hot coal and pimento wood.

Feeling extra hungry? Go for a combo box, packed with a variety of delicious options such as curry mutton, coconut veg curry and more. And don’t forget the sides - mac and cheese, plantain, patty, and rasta pasta.

If you’re looking for a tasty Caribbean dining experience, ‘Top it off’ give it a try. With their delicious menu and focus on quality, it’s no wonder this restaurant is making a name for itself in the local food scene.

You can find them at 48a High Town Rd.

Photo: Cameron Mullane

CATCH 21 THE Rewild ONE

Rewilding refers to a process of reclaiming land from bland mediocrity to a valuable habitat for flora and fauna. This means either reducing the human interventions in over-managed areas, yet increasing them where land has been neglected.

The council’s long-serving Senior Landscape and Ecology Officer, Trevor Tween, was probably up to his knees in nettles when he got the nod that he had made the King’s Birthday Honours last year.

You’d have thought that gardening suppliers Spear and Jackson would have already put Trevor (pictured right) on a pedestal after the amount of dosh his numerous projects and leading roles in the field, spanning over 40 years (and counting), had filled their coffers.

Trevor was presented with the British Empire Medal (BEM) in an awards ceremony at Wardown Park Museum for his services to conservation and wildlife in Luton and Bedfordshire. Yet this prestigious gong is no bookend for his career. He is still out there rewilding in a field near you right now.

In different parts of the UK, a combination of reintroductions, conservation works and natural recolonisation has led to a number of iconic bird species appearing in our skies once more, including the familiar red kite commonly seen over Luton. However, in a town of the size of Luton, rewilding is only possible on a more limited scale. Yet much can be achieved over a longer period of time.

Large areas have been rewilded over the years. Areas we see today as attractive flower-rich grasslands were mown several times per year and regarded as green deserts, but of little value for biodiversity. Riverside Walk, Waulud’s Bank, Stopsley Common, People’s Park, Limbury Mead, Dallow Downs, Lewsey Park, Great Bramingham Park and Bramingham Long Field all include substantial rewilded meadows.

Where possible grazing can be brought in, as on Galley and Warden Hills and Bradgers Hill, to allow a natural form of management. Sheep, ponies and cattle have all been introduced. In some places ancient hedgerows and woodlands are being restored, such as on Stopsley Common and around Hay Wood, where oak saplings are growing on what were redundant sports pitches.

Elsewhere, derelict and overgrown land is being carefully cleared to return it to grassland from scrub.

Dallow Downs and Winsdon Hill, Fallowfield, Cowslip Meadow and Bradgers Hill are all either designated, or approaching that level of quality.

Luton has long been ahead of the curve in this work, and that fits well with national and local priorities for meeting the biodiversity and climate change crisis objectives.

If you are a teacher, or a parent of school-age children, then there is a great opportunity for you to help create the next generation of eco-warriors.

However, fear not. No-one will be urging anyone to superglue themselves to the M1, or to empty a tin of tomato soup over the Mona Lisa.

Schools in Luton have joined the Climate Action Teacher Champion, where the only catch is the acronym. The ‘CATCh’ programme helps schools to develop active and personalised climate change action plans by means of accessing tailored training and one-to-one support and a burgeoning network of fellow environmental advocates in other primary and secondary schools across Luton.

The council initiative has already seen 19 of the town’s 80 staterun schools sign up. The target is to hit the halfway mark of 40 schools participating by 2025. The next session begins in September.

The four pillars of the scheme are energy, travel, wildlife and waste/recycling. CATCh offers

Blooming eck!

Gardening is not just a rich source of providing personal well-being, it's also a great tool in helping to nullify our CO2 emissions. Plants and trees absorb greenhouse gases, so think of this healthy hobby as a kind of solar flower power.

schools the opportunities to overcome the barriers to action that had previously prevented them from succeeding by equipping teachers with new knowledge, confidence, enthusiasm and the tools needed for helping their communities to lower their carbon footprint.

Participant Samantha Thompson, from Warden Hill Infant School, said: “A lot we’ve done already I wouldn’t have achieved without CATCh. We celebrated Earth Day for the first time, the children got really involved. We weren’t recycling well, but now the children are aware what can go where, and the importance of this.

“Speaking to teachers from different schools has been really helpful. Just having that network, knowing who to ask questions when you’ve got them, it’s been really good. Join the scheme because you can do it at your own pace, and start off as big or as small as you want to.”

If you think your local school should get involved, or just needs some extra training, then write to us at myclimate@luton.gov.uk

Naturally, the Luton in Bloom 2024 competition is welcomed back this year with open arms, and anyone with access to enough space to swing a cactus can join in. Following last year’s huge success, there are four competition categories for any budding horticulturalists to enter: Residential Front Display, Best Fruit or Vegetable Patch, Best Community Garden and Best School Garden Project.

The competition deadline is 21 July. Local judges are poised ready to peruse your Petunias, so get growing.

Full details at www.lutoninbloom.com

Wheel or no wheel –leave the car at home.

Here are our top tips for greener –and healthier – ways of travelling:

1. Join a Cycle2Work scheme. Don't have wheels? Check with your employer and see if they're signed up this cost-effective bike and equipment hire plan.

2. Power up. E-bikes have an electric motor and battery to help you cover longer journeys more easily. Anyone can hire council e-cargo bikes or Cycling UK e-cycles for free. Find out more www.cyclinguk.org/ making-cycling-e-asier

3. Bikeability. Whether you're young or old – or anywhere in between –get on the government's national cycling training programme to gain skills and confidence. Find out more at luton.gov.uk/cycling

4. Hop on, hop off. Get on a bus for a couple of quid. A number of bus operators in Luton have capped their single fares at £2.

5. Mix it up. Okay, we get it. Your journey is too long. So drive part of the way, park responsibly, then walk the rest of the way.

ONE DAY PASS WITH THIS VOUCHER

Transform Lives by Fostering with Luton Council

Ready to make a difference? You can foster a brighter future with Luton Council and make your skills and experience count. Join us as a foster carer and help transform lives.

Your skills and experience can significantly improve life outcomes for vulnerable children and teenagers. Your contribution could be the lifeline that keeps families together.

Being a foster carer is varied, demanding, and rewarding. No two days are ever the same. We need foster carers from diverse backgrounds who bring a variety of skills and experiences. Use your life skills to care for children who have had vastly different experiences. Fostering is an opportunity to make a lasting impact. Whether you have

previous experience with children or not, your unique background and abilities can provide a nurturing environment for those in need.

By fostering with Luton Council, you will receive comprehensive support and training, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle the challenges and joys of foster care. Join a community dedicated to making a positive change in the lives of children and teenagers. Your involvement can create stability, offer guidance, and provide love to those who need it most.

Are you ready to open your heart and home to a child in need?

Become a foster carer with Luton Council and help us build a brighter future for our community. For more information visit: luton.gov.uk/fostering or call 01582 547633 to speak to a member of our team directly.

What’s On

Your go-to source for all things great about our town. stepforwardluton.co.uk/ things-to-do-in-luton

Luton’s 5th Windrush Civic Flag Raising Ceremony

An annual civic programme at Luton Town Hall Steps with speeches, performances, and local stories in honour of Luton’s Windrush Generation and their descendants’ significant contribution to society.

Saturday 22 June 2024

3pm - 7pm (Programme is 3pm to 5pm. Food is 5.15pm to 7pm)

Luton Town Hall, Luton

Lornamarkland@accdf.co.uk

Cost: Free

Some highlights of activities and events taking place in your town

Lewsey Community Festival

Enjoy a free, fun day out with plenty of activities for the whole family.

Saturday 29 June 2024

12 to 4 pm Lewsey Park

Cost: Free Pride in Luton

Join Pride in Luton for their 3rd year with music, dance, drag performances, arts and crafts, and food stalls.

Saturday 6 July 2024

12pm to 9pm

Hat District, Bute Street

www.prideinluton.org

Cost: Free DisABILITY

Celebration Month

Celebrate the diversity in the community and reject the stigma, discrimination and ableism that prevents equality for all.

Various dates in July

Various times

St George’s Square and Wardown Park

luton.gov.uk/Page/Show/ events/Pages/abilitycelebration-month.aspx

Cost: To be confirmed

Desi Fest Luton

A two-day extravaganza filled with entertainment and a line-up of talented artists, celebrating British Asian culture.

Saturday 20 July and Sunday 21 July 2024

12pm to 8pm Wardown Park

www.desifest.co.uk

Cost: Free

Love Luton RunFest 2024

Get ready to lace up your running shoes for this year’s Love Luton RunFest!

Sunday 13 October

10K race starts at 8.50am and 5K race starts at 8.45am

St George’s Square

loveluton.org.uk/runfest

Cost: Various

Luton Literature Book Festival is back!

Saturday 9 November 20

National authors, workshops and activities. Panel discussion with shortlisted authors from SI Leeds Literary Prize. Local author and illustrators fair. Suitable for all ages. Visit our website to find out more: www.lutonliterature.co.uk

Every month

Bradgers Hill Outdoor Work Parties

A great way to get hands-on to help wildlife and get some fresh air, keep fit and meet others.

First Monday of every month

10am to 3pm

Bushmead Community Hub

www.wildlifebcn.org/ volunteering-opportunities/ conservation-workparties-bedfordshire

Cost: Free

Hat District Lates

Eat, Drink and Create at Hat District Lates! 16+

First Thursday of every month

5pm to 9pm

The Hat District

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Cost: Free

The Comedy Bar

Join resident MC Jake Pickford for an evening of stand-up comedy. Strictly 16+

Third Friday of every month

7.30pm to 10pm

Hat Factory Arts Centre

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Cost: £7

Luton Life Drawing

Drawings made from the living naked human form. Join this friendly class with tutor Matt Burden.

First Saturday of every month 2pm to 4pm

Hat Factory Arts Centre

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Cost: £15

Swirl Nightclub

Bedfordshire’s biggest disability nightclub. Strictly 18+

Last Tuesday of every month 7pm to 10pm

Hat Factory Arts Centre

www.culturetrust.com/whats-on

Cost: £5/ free carer ticket

Artisan Food, Art and Craft Market

A monthly fair with handmade crafts, food and drinks. Suitable for all ages.

Every second Sunday of the month 11am to 5pm

Stockwood Discovery Centre

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Cost: Free

More events taking place

Brand new fully serviced office space available to view today!

Pride in Luton Vigil and Launch

An annual vigil to remember those who have been lost to Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.

Thursday 4 July 2023

7pm

Hat Factory Arts Centre

www.prideinluton.org

Cost: Free

Luton Foodbank 5k Charity Colour Run

Run, jog, or walk the 5k route whilst being showered with coloured powder. Great fun for all the family.

Saturday 6 July

10am

Wardown Park

www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ luton-foodbank-5kcharity-colour-runtickets-894324758427?

Cost: Adult (over 16 on event day) £20 | Child (under 16 on event day) £15

Summer Sounds at Hat Gardens

Grab your lunch and head to Hat Gardens for live performances from local musicians.

Every Tuesday between 18 June and 23 July 12pm to 1.45pm

Cost: Free

Morning Yoga at Hat Gardens

Our expert instructor will guide you through a rejuvenating session designed to leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day. Pre-booking essential at hatgardens.eventbrite.com

Every Tuesday between 23 July and 27 August 8am to 8.45am

Cost: Free

New flamingo at Hat Gardens

There’s a new addition flocking around this summer, and we’re inviting you to help name them!

Submit your most creative name suggestion for a chance to win a £100 Smyths Toy Voucher.

place.stepforwardluton. co.uk/flamingo

Summer Puppetry

Holiday Camp

A week-long puppetry-based summer camp working with the Young People’s Puppet Theatre. Suitable for ages 8-12 years

From Monday 5 August 10am to 4.30pm

Hat Factory Arts Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Cost: £150 Child/£120 Early Bird/£75 concessions

Stockwood Garden Party

Embark on an enchanting journey through the hidden corners of Stockwood Discovery Centre and explore the “Wonders of the Woodland”. Suitable for all ages.

6 to 8 August

11am to 3pm

Stockwood Discovery Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Cost: Free Utter! Lutonia

An eclectic and ever-changing line-up of Spoken Word talent. Strictly 16+

Thursday 5 September 8pm

Hat Factory Arts Centre

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on/utter-lutonia-5

Cost: £6/£4 conc

Music in the Museum: September 24

A classical music performance taking place in the stunning drawing room, surrounded by the museum’s unique art collection and with spectacular views overlooking Wardown Park. Suitable for all ages.

Sunday 8 September 2pm to 4pm Wardown House, Museum and Gallery

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Cost: £18

Heritage Open Days

Your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences which are free to explore and made possible thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

8 September to 17 September

To be confirmed

Various locations

www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Cost: Free Clay Club: Autumn/ harvest theme

A fun-filled and family-friendly ceramics workshop.

Saturday 21 September

1pm to 4pm

Hat factory Arts Centre

www.facebook.com/ lugus.ceramics

Cost: TBC

What’s on in your parks

Wardown Park Volunteer Gardeners

Come and help enhance the beautiful surrounds of Wardown Park.

Every Thursday 10am to 12pm

Meet by Wardown House parksvolunteers@luton.gov.uk

Cost: Free

Memorial Park Community Gardening

Drop in to Groundwork’s FREE gardening sessions. Simply turn up and lend a hand. For adults 19+

Every Tuesday and Thursday 11am to 12.30pm

Memorial Park

https://info.groundwork.org.uk/ memorial-park-gardening-2024

Memorial Park Volunteer Gardeners

Come and help enhance the beautiful surrounds of Memorial Park.

Every Friday 10am to 12pm

Meet by the rose beds parksvolunteers@luton.gov.uk

Cost: Free

Nature Conservation Volunteers

Activities to enhance the biodiversity across the town’s parks and greenspaces.

Every Monday 10am to 3.30pm

Various – get in touch for programme details

parksvolunteers@luton.gov.uk

Cost: Free

Luton Wardown Parkrun

A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, or run. All abilities welcome.

Every Saturday 9am Wardown Park

www.parkrun.org.uk/ lutonwardown

Cost: Free

The first 1001 days of a child’s life is the most important part of their development, and Luton Family Hubs are here to assist you in your parenting journey.

We will provide parent and child sessions, practical advice, guidance, and information, delivered by trusted, friendly professionals.

We’re here to support you and your child’s changing needs from conception to children and young people up to the age of 19 years or 25 years with special educational needs and disabilities. Our aim is to enable children’s development to flourish and make your journey the best experience it can be.

We look forward to welcoming you and your family at our Family Hubs and outreach venues.

For more information email familyhubs@eyalliance.org.uk call 01582 368245 or visit familyhubs.luton.gov.uk

Working with our community

Throughout the last year, London Luton Airport (LLA) has continued to be a part of the very fabric of the town, playing an important role in the local community.

LLA’s unique ownership structure means that the airport operator, London Luton Airport Operations Limited, and the airport owner, Luton Rising, work in close partnership to deliver a wide range of support and investment in the local community.

In addition to the significant community investment made by Luton Rising, LLA’s investment in the local community supports a range of new programmes and initiatives helping to enhance the lives of tens of thousands of local residents.

MATCHING THE IN V E S T I NG

FUNDRAISING EFFORTS

17,000

Watt a Waste

Most of us have at least one drawer in the house that resembles the inside of R2-D2. In other words, a bleeping mess of tangled cables, chargers, gadgets and batteries that, if reconfigured correctly, could probably help launch the next Hubble Space Telescope.

Of course, it doesn’t take a bright spark to realise that it is not just the question of recycling that should spur you into action. Battery and vape fires are a real and present danger (see image below) and you should take steps to ensure that you and the public are not put at risk by disposing of them in the correct manner.

Research shows that the average household has 30 such electricals tucked away somewhere. That’s a staggering 880 million items across the UK which could be put to good use.

The council is promoting its Recycle Your Electricals campaign, as 60 new collection and drop-off points will soon be available across Luton to get rid of your corded and portable appliances (working or not), batteries and leads.

Up to 75 per cent of materials used in our standard household electricals can be recycled into anything from children’s playgrounds to lifesaving medical equipment. Did you know that circuit boards contain precious metals such as gold and silver, plus other vital resources such as steel and copper? That is why electricals should never end up buried into oblivion.

Funded by Material Focus, a not-forprofit organisation on a mission to stop electrical products being hoarded or thrown away, the Recycle Your Electricals project offers Luton residents a simple solution for virtually every scenario relating to your surplus semiconductors.

A simple search on recycleyourelectricals.org.uk will show you your nearest dropoff points at local supermarkets, electrical and DIY stores, community centres and tidy tips. It will tell you exactly which item goes where, and how to present it. Uptake on this important initiative depends on your participation. We all want to recycle but sometimes life gets in the way. Together we can chase down the target of diverting 80 tonnes of electrical items from landfill and put it to good use, reducing our carbon emissions at the same time.

https://www.bedsguiding.org.uk

in your future at Cotton Meadows

in the quaint village of Wilstead

Herb Your Enthusiasm

The collaboration between a crop of local volunteer groups and Luton Parks and Countryside Services is turning some of the town's greener spaces into a real grass act.

The council’s team of professionals oversee the maintenance and development of 633 hectares of parks and woodlands – which is the equivalent of 1,200 Kenilworth Road football pitches (give or take a few hundred, but you get the picture).

Yet they can’t do it all alone. So, thanks to the likes of the Luton and Dunstable Conservation Volunteers, The Conservation Volunteers, Luton’s Parks and Countryside Volunteers and the Wildlife Trust, places you have grown to cherish over the years are thriving.

Luton Life visited one of these sites recently to find out more about the great work these dedicated teams are doing. Bradgers Hill is an historic county wildlife site, and the long-term ambition is to turn it into a Site of Specific Scientific Interest.

Sam Mostyn-Willis, the Horticultural Coordinator for the service explained, “Because we

live in an ecologically-broken country, our landscapes aren’t natural. So, without management, they revert to a certain way of being.

“We are heavily reliant upon volunteer groups to help enhance these spaces for biodiversity, but also to use these spaces and feel a sense of ownership and belonging. Local people who can report issues as they arise are very useful, as are the Friends groups who take an interest and arrange activities in our green spaces. We are very grateful for the work of the volunteers.”

Sam was joined by Trevor Tween BEM (as featured on P10), both ably assisted by their band of regular helpers.

Yet William was volunteering for the very first time. He told us, “I’m currently in semi-supported accommodation, so I’m looking for something to do in my spare time. It’s good to go out, get some fresh air and do a bit of exercise. It makes your mental health a lot better, 100 per cent.”

Another volunteer, Jackie, also spoke highly of the personal benefits of stepping out and becoming involved in such a rewarding activity.

Jackie said, “When I retired I wanted to do something to keep me going. So I come up here on a

Monday, then on Thursday I go to Wardown Park. It’s nice to be out in the fresh air with other people, doing something nice for the environment. Come out and do itit’s good exercise!”

Bond Street

Organisers of a street party held in the heart of Luton were so wrapped up in giving the local kids a good time - it went unnoticed that they had become trailblazers

The Playing Out scheme began in 2009 as a national incentive to temporarily close residential streets so that children could cut loose playing games while their parents and neighbours could meet socially.

As ever, these grassroots movements can be a slow burner, especially when you are closing roads which are normally open to motorists. Yet the council approved the town’s first ever ‘Play Street’ to organisers whose previously successful street parties in St Monicas Avenue honoured Queen Elizabeth’s platinum jubilee celebrations, and King Charles’ coronation.

well as providing all the essentials to make the day run and keep safe; like road signs, hi-vis jackets, posters and guidelines for the day, as well as fun things like whistles (so it was anything but a quiet afternoon!), skipping ropes and chalks. We added a few of our own fun things like face paint, henna, Play Doh and colouring sheets.

To find out more visit the Parks and Recreation page of the council’s website luton.gov.uk or you can email parksvolunteers@luton.gov.uk

Now both resident/co-organiser Gill Boyd, and the council, are urging more of Luton’s communities to seize the moment and apply to have their own Play Street this summer. Gill told us: “It was a wonderful day and we had no idea that we were the first street in Luton to do this! The kids had a great time.

“The council will close off the street for a few hours to enable a safe place to meet and play, as

“People from different communities and nationalities came together, old and young. Some met for the first time, and some families had only been in the street for a few weeks so were able to meet their new neighbours. Some brought out snacks to share, but the main purpose was for the children to play outside safely and for all to have fun and to build community. There were ladies and children skipping, a women versus kids tug-of-war (I think the kids won every time!). It was not just for the kids but for everyone.”

If you, or someone you know, would like to take part in this scheme, then please get in touch at PlayStreets@luton.gov.uk Or visit luton.gov.uk/playstreets

“It was very nice to meet with the people who live near us. Kids had lots of fun. They played and laughed together. We will look forward for many more!!!” Ulfat, St Monicas Avenue

“It was lovely to hear children playing and having fun” Joan, St Monicas Avenue

Explore a retirement like no other

Think retirement is all sitting around and gathering dust? Think again. Whether you’re a hiker, history buff or someone who loves to go off-grid – retirement is what you make of it and it’s yours for the taking.

Millfield Green future, steeped in history. The UK’s first carbon net zero regulated retirement village is low-impact living near some of Britain’s most ancient paths and historic buildings.

Picture yourself here, having a morning stroll around the tranquil lake. Next up is a morning yoga class (or a swim, or a session with a PT). Anyone who fancies a trip out can book a taxi: for the history buffs, it’s an afternoon out to Dunstable Priory, and for the hikers, it’s a walk

Join us at Millfield Green for our

Elderswell keeps the busy urban world just out of sight, but within easy reach. Picture a haven for dog walkers, ramblers and garden lovers. When you’re at Elderswell, no morning is complete without a coffee and a pastry from Eric’s café. Now you’re energised it’s time for a wander through the village towards the magnificent Turvey House, stopping to smell the roses in its beautiful gardens. Strolling back towards the village brasserie for a seasonal lunch, the

afternoon is full of on-site possibilities: browsing the library for a book club pick, unwinding in the spa, swapping gardening tips with neighbours.

‘We’re much more sociable than we used to be.’

Fancy going out? Time to hop in a taxi to Bedford to check out the latest exhibition at the Higgins Art Gallery and Museum, or to Milton Keynes for a show at the theatre.

If this sounds like it could be your kind of retirement with your kind of people, give us a call today. With up to 2 years’ free service charge* there’s no better time to make your move. We are also offering up to 4 months’ rent FREE** on all our apartments.

Book a visit today by calling 0808 281 0146 or visit inspiredvillages.co.uk

Just the Ticket

Hip hop to your stop

Better Buses Luton is a partnership between Luton Council and local bus companies including Arriva, Stagecoach, Centre Bus, Grant Palmer, Uno and Red Eagle.

Thanks to £19m of funding, we are working together to improve bus punctuality and reliability, to provide more bus services, to increase customer satisfaction levels and encourage more people to take bus journeys.

Here are just some of the things Better Buses Luton have delivered, and further improvements you can look forward to:

Screen counter

We are installing 100 new Real Time Information Screens to help keep people up-to-date as they make their journeys around the area.

We have cut the cost of travel. All singles fares are now capped at just £2, and we have reduced the cost of the multi-operator Hip Hop ticket that allows unlimited travel on all local buses for a week to just £13 for adults, and £10 for children. Older people, and those people with disabilities, can now use their concessionary passes to travel for free all day - and not just after 9am.

Stay Connected

We are introducing more buses in the evenings and weekends, providing better connections to key destinations, such as L&D University Hospital, schools and colleges, London Luton Airport and Whipsnade Zoo.

MADE IN LUTON

Andy Chesham

“It was a lovely moment. All I’ve wanted to do since I was 13-years-old was own a record shop,” beamed Andy Chesham, still in the glazed afterglow of the special event at The Hat Factory which marked the 30th anniversary celebrations of Vinyl Revelations.

talks to Geoff Knox

Gimme shelter

We are installing 115 new bus shelters to make the waiting environment more pleasant for bus users, while footway improvements will make access to bus stops and shelters easier for everyone.

People are already noticing the improvements being delivered by Better Buses Luton.

Ten per cent more journeys are being made today than in the pre- pandemic era, reducing congestion and pollution and helping make Luton greener.

To find out more visit Luton.gov.uk/buses

“There were old customers and new, all in there together. There were a couple of bands and a DJ playing so it was a great atmosphere. At the end, everyone

Andy’s long-established music store in Cheapside has earned him accolades from record buyers all around the globe –and even a coveted place on the recently-released Luton version of Monopoly. Yet it is his chameleonic ability to ride fluctuating market forces during the last three decades which have been key to his success. Plus a whole lot of help from his wife, Sharon, and daughter, who skipper Vinyl Revelations’ online store on Discogs.com. They manage a staggering 95,000 items, some rarities dating back to before Andy was born.

“We started in the Market Hall in what was the Arndale Centre. Records were dying at that time so we sold a lot of merchandise as well. But as times changed records became more fashionable again. It started rebuilding and in the last few years new records have outsold CDs, which are now regarded as the old format.”

Andy, who lives in Limbury, moved Vinyl Revelations to Park Street in 2007, then on to Cardigan

Street, before settling in what he now considers the ideal location, tucked between the Mall and the town centre’s main travel hubs.

“We have a colossal amount of records. It brings a lot of people into the area. Luton has reignited itself and you can see there’s a bit of a buzz around again. People fly into Luton and pop in, and travel from all over the UK. On a Saturday there are school-aged kids, adults, and people in their 80’s in here, with every other age group and demographic in between. You can see a street cleaner standing next to a barrister, talking about music.”

Naturally, Andy’s other passion is live music, whetted by seeing The Clash at Brixton Academy in his formative years. He also works as a promoter for live events in Luton and the capital. Glancing at the numerous active flyers in his store, it would seem like old punks never die. And it is pretty clear that he is not ready for a swansong anytime soon.

“Music is my passion. With gigs, I’m either putting one on, or going to one. I’ll go on until I can’t stand up any more. My grandad worked until he was 96 - so I’m targeting beating that!”

www.vinylrevelations.com

TO DEPARTURE

Unlock Local Discounts

Luton residents get 50% off, while Disability Badge and Older Person Bus Pass Holders travel for free.

Apply today for your concession account and get approved within 3 business days to secure your tickets.

How to access the DART station: