Bedford boro bulletin jan 2018

BEDFORD BOROUGH EDITION

Castle Newnham’s amazing young chefs visit the Swan Hotel – see page 10

JANUARY 2018

We’ve done a few driveways in our time!

NEW YEAR SALE Boo • Block paving • Patio slabs • Tarmacadam • Fencing • Turfing • Brickwork • Graveling • Landscaping and much more

n Free quotations and advice n All work full guaranteed n No deposits

k now and your pric lock e in!

LC Driveway Solutions Ltd Long Lake Meadow, High Road, Seddington, Sandy SG19 1NU

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 3

Top floor‘fire’sale! o t p U f f o % 50

Bedfordshire’s largest ‘fire’ showroom is having its top floor refurbished — so everything has to go.

Up to 50% off ex-display stoves, gas fires and fireplaces 1 Bedford Street, Ampthill MK45 2LU

Tel: 01525 841199 www.ampthillfireplaces.co.uk Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 10.00am-5.00pm, Saturday 10.00am-4.00pm, Sunday CLOSED

4 — BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

James is a ‘Young Businessperson’

JaMeS Gray, 27, Director of ampthill Fireplaces, the 2016 recipient of Bedfordshire on Sunday’s young Businessperson of the year accolade was awarded runner up in the young Businessperson of the year category at the SMe National Business awards at Wembley Stadium last month. There was stiff competition in the category, with ten under 30s from all around the country nominated.The judges commended James for his ‘entrepreneurial spirit and good business sense’ and applauded his increased revenues in a year where he also invested heavily in the business; moving warehouse, refurbishing the three-storey showroom and opening

ampthill’s first ever micro museum on the top floor.

Wembley Stadium hosted the SMe National Business awards on Friday 1st December. over 450 businesspeople from across the UK joined together to celebrate their achievements over the past year.

With a maximum of 14 companies in any one category going through to the finals it is a huge achievement to be recognised.

James Gray, owner of ampthill Fireplaces said: “It was an honour to be invited to Wembley Stadium as a national finalist, I really didn’t expect to win an award so I was blown away when I heard my name called out.”

email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Kingfisher Building is now open!

Mayor Dave Hodgson officially opened Bromham Primary School’s new Kingfisher Building on Thursday 30 November.

Like many schools’ across the borough, the school is currently converting from a lower school to a primary school.

Features of the new build include seven more classrooms, a multi-purpose hall and kitchen amongst other

additions to the school.

Bromham Primary School’s Head teacher, Virginia Gilks, said: “We couldn’t be more pleased with our new building. Becoming a full Primary School has been an aim for our governors for a long time, and this investment by the Borough gives us the space to take the additional year groups, and to expand to threeform entry from September 2018.”

Santa visits Keech Hospice Care

TIME FOR A KITCHEN MAKEOVER?

WE ARE REPLACEMENT KITCHEN DOORS AND KITCHEN REFURBISHMENT SPECIALISTS SINCE 1980

KitchenDoor Solutions Call: Iain Smith on 01234 389063 or 07583 869741 iain@kitchendoorsolutions.co.uk

SaNTa Claus made a visit to Keech Hospice to drop off two cheques from Bedfordshire Freemasons.

Banita Misty, regional Fundraiser of Keech Hospice Care told us: “We will use the monies to support children and adults to live pain and symptom free, to spend untroubled time with their family and friends, to understand what is happening to them, to stay out of hospital and to make the most of the time they have.

“This means we need to raise over £5.7 million every year to continue our specialist care for children and adults, and their families.”

Martin Wilson from Bedfordshire Freemasons added: “Freemasonry gives over £600,000 to hospices every year. This year we have allocated £150,000 to help hospices develop extended bereavement support. This funding will help hospices to care for and support families who have lost a loved one.”

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 5

School with a driving ambition!

ST THoMaS More Catholic Teaching School are delighted to announce that local business man Mr Clive Wiley and MD of Parrott Construction, Mr Chris Layram, have become the new sponsors of the St Thomas More Car racing Team. on the 5th of December, our new sponsors came to STM to meet the team and see what they are planning. all of the cars were on display as well as their development ideas and designs. The team couldn’t wait to show off their hard work, demonstrate how the cars work and share their plans.

The STM Design & Technology department along with students aged 12-18 have designed & constructed two electric powered racing cars which, thanks to the generous sup-

port of Mr Wiley and Mr Layram, can now be entered into the Greenpower International races at rockingham raceway. Cars from all over the UK enter this competition and in previous years, our successes to date have included third place in annual races as well as winning awards for the ‘Best Looking Car’ and the ‘Most Interesting Technology’.

Powered by a 24 volt DC motor and two 12 volt batteries, the cars can reach speeds in excess of 30 mph, enabling the drivers to complete two, 90 minute races, with pit stops for driver change over.

Design and Technology: The St Thomas More Design and Technology Department strive to give all of our students the chance to

participate in additional activities that will bring their learning to life.

The More Car racing Team enables students of all abilities and from differing backgrounds to come together and showcase their creativity and ingenuity – ICT, Design, Science, Technology, Business, engineering and Maths skills are all put to the test within the team as well as improving social and communication skills.

There is no charge to the student to join the club or participate in the activities and the entire project is funding through fundraising and donations.

Mr Simon Prudden, Design and Technology teacher and Car Team Manager said: “a wide range of pupils are involved in the racing team with a number of pupils who were originally involved in the design and construction of the cars having secured their place at college to study car design or at University to study engineering. We are delighted that both Mr Wiley and Mr Layram are our team sponsors and their support will enable us to further develop our existing cars, fund our practice sessions on suitable race tracks and provide the team with all of the required safety equipment they need to be able to competitively race next year.”

Changing faces at Swan Hotel

THe Bedford Swan Hotel, the destination of travellers from around the world, has a new team at the top.

New General Manager is Malcolm Wyse and Director of Sales and Marketing is David o’Connor.

The are both part of the redefine BDL Hotel management company which has operated the hotel on behalf of the owners for a decade.

The 18th Century Swan Hotel offers top quality facilities to those travelling from afar, or those who live locally and recognise this as their first choice venue.

David is already working closely with the local community and has volunteered to be on the Board of the Bedford Business Improvement District (BID). Pictured above: Malcolm left and David right.

6 — BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Saturday 8am-1pm

Please call or visit for all your electrical supplies Trade & Public Welcome

Your local LED specialist

Tel: 01234 857800 2a Howard Street, Kempston MK42 8EA elliottelectricalsuppliesltd@hotmail.co.uk

Visit our website or find us on Facebook

www.elliottelectricalsupplies.co.uk

WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES Manufactured and installed by local craftsmen

o or a n f y a t od Call t ation cha oblig

OFFICE AND FACTORY:

■ Windows ■ uPVC Doors, Composite Doors ■ French Doors, Patio Doors, Bifold Doors ■ Conservatories ■ Deposit Indemnity ■ 10 year insurance-backed Guarantee ■ Certass Registration – Building Regulations

Red Gate Farm, Mill Road, Thurleigh, Bedford MK44 2DP t: 01234 771100 e: info@gandlwindows.co.uk www.gandlwindows.co.uk

BMS student to join the National Youth Choir

FoLLoWING auditions in London earlier in the autumn Term, talented singer Talia Sanders has won a place with the prestigious National youth Choir, the National youth Choirs of Great Britain (NyCGB)’s flagship ensemble. It is recognised as one of the greatest youth choirs in the world and is made up of 100 of the best young voices in the UK. year 13 student, Talia, who is currently studying Music, Music Tech and Latin at a Level hopes to study music at university next year. She explains: “This is a oncein-a-lifetime chance for a singer. as well as national concert opportunities and advanced workshops to develop musicianship you also attend a residential course during the year which is full of other learning opportunities. It’s scary but I’m really looking forward to it!” you can audition for the National youth Choir from year 12 and sing with the choir until the academic year in which you turn 22 years of age. all members prove their ongoing development and commitment through annual re-auditions. Talia, a soprano, sang with the National youth Training Choir last year.

John Mower, Director of Music at BMS said: “We are very proud and pleased for Talia that she has become a member of the National youth Choir. This is the realisation of all her hard work and dedication to her singing.”

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 7

Wedding belles at Wembley

TWo town centre businesses were off to Wembley to take part in the National SMe awards.

George James Bridal’s Nicola Harris ended off a fantastic year at the mammoth event “alas we didn’t win this time but we were up against some phenomenal businesses.”

George James Bridal won two other awards recently: Bedford Town Centre Business of the year (sponsored by BedfordBID) and Best Bridal retailer at the Four Counties Wedding awards.

Meanwhile over at Kel’s Belles in Clair Court, Lime Street successful beauty apprentice Chloe Field was among the line-up at Wembley too.

The London event followed

another evening of success when she was selected for a special prize by Brooks Hair & Beauty Spa apprenticeship team for a Bedford College award.

Her boss Kelly was a student in the Hair & Beauty department, worked on cruise ships and five star salons before starting her own business. Kelly undertook professional training at Bedford College to improve her skills in training others.

It’s paid off with Chloe. Want to know more about careers and ongoing training in Hair & Beauty?

Look at bedford.ac.uk

Above right: Nicola at Wembley with the FA Cup – another trophy for the bridal belle.

Above left: Chloe left and Kelly right at Kel’s Belles.

Bodywork

Crash repairs – minor dings and scrapes to a full colour change

SERVICING: cars & light commercials

TYRES & EXHAUSTS 01234

216662 MON-FRI 8am-5.30pm

SAT 8am-1pm

56 College Street, Kempston MK42 8LU

ECO FRIENDLY KILN DRIED LOGS Two bags £10 £5.99 PER BAG Simple to light, excellent heat output, low ash residue www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk

Tel: 01234 823033

MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE

Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH

Bedford Free School – a part of Advantage Schools End of term

Bedford Free School’s end of term assembly packed out St Paul’s Church with well over 500 parents, staff and pupils. This well-established tradition, which BFS has now done for six years, was the perfect way to end a brilliant term.

To prepare for the assembly, for the week before during the school’s morning meetings – where pupils have a structured start to the day – pupils had partaken in a week-long house competition singing carols. Cardington Dolphins retained their title after a close contest.

The Cauldwell Street school has an extended school day, ensuring that 100% of pupils can partake in extra-curricular activities, house competitions and ‘interventions’ designed to ensure that no-one falls behind.

While the assembly was going on, across the town at Elstow Abbey, the Key Stage 2 pupils and parents of sister-school Elstow School had filled Elstow Abbey for the Carol Concert. The two schools come together under the umbrella of Advantage Schools to work on developing a curriculum that ensures that all pupils have access to the best that has been thought and said and to share expertise.

Fixtures and extra-curricular trips:

BFS pupils took part in 75 fixtures over the last term. Over the last year 92% of pupils participated in extra-curricular fixtures representing the

school. The school is determined that this will be maintained.

The school also provides supervised ‘prep’ time every day, so that pupils are able to work in silence on homework and extra work in school time. This is alongside ‘Drop Everything and Read’, where for 30 minutes every day every single pupil will read a classic work of literature with their class.

In the summer, all year 7 pupils will climb Snowdon – the highest mountain in England and Wales – together. The school challenges all pupils to climb the metaphorical mountain to university.

In climbing Snowdon, pupils will develop teamwork, resilience and perseverance – all characteristics that will help them in their academic journey.

Centre of Excellence

15 Headteachers and Principals from across the United Kingdom – travelling from as far away as Dorset – visited BFS this term. BFS hosts visitor days every month and the waiting list is up to 40 for the next one.

Colleagues from other schools want to form partnerships and see how BFS manages to maintain such a productive ethos with silent corridors, immaculate behaviour, and 100% of learning time focussed on lessons.

If any members of the local community would like to visit they can contact us on info@bedfordfreeschool.co.uk For further information www.bedfordfreeschool.co.uk info@bedfordfreeschool.co.uk 01234 332299

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 9

Julia Jarman opens the 2017 Christmas Tree Festival theme of this year’s festival and signed copies of many of her own popular books. Some of the children entertained Julia and distinguished guests, mohammed Yasin mP for Bedford and Kempston and Vinod Tailor (High Sheriff of Bedfordshire) who bought a number of

Julia Jarman, author of children’s books, opened the Christmas Tree Festival at St Paul’s Bedford and took a good look round the immense range of decorative trees.

She spent time telling a crowd of children some of her favourite ‘stories for children’, the

Best-rated travel agents

a HIGH street travel agency in Bedford has been shortlisted as one of the best travel agencies in the British Isles.

Select Travel Holidays has been selected as one of the top five high street agencies in the east of england region, as part of a power-list of the nation’s best agents by industry bible the Travel Trade Gazette.

More than 900 travel agencies and branches put themselves forward for consideration for TTG’s Top 50 Travel agencies 2018 – in association with Kuoni - from which a shortlist of 95 finalists across 19 categories has been devised. on april 26, 2018, the 50 agencies that have ultimately earned a

WHAT WE DO Boiler services and repairs l Boiler replacements l Heating system upgrades l Radiators and towel rails l Powerflushing l Underfloor heating l Wireless controls l Cylinder replacements l Bathroom and wetroom installations l Taps, showers, ball valves l All general plumbing and heating maintenance l

place in the Top 50 list for 2018 will be announced at a glittering ceremony at The Vox Centre in Birmingham.

TTG editor Pippa Jacks said: “Now in its third year, our Top 50 Travel agencies initiative takes us the length and breadth of the country to uncover stories of brilliant agents going the extra mile for their customers, giving great value, and serving their communities.

“With extremely stiff competition once again this year, any high street agency that has made it onto the shortlist should be extremely proud.”

Julia’s books for his grandchildren.

The reverend Kevin Goss, vicar of St Paul’s and margaret Oakley, Hon Chairman of the Christmas Tree Festival now in its 17th year, welcomed guests and reminded them of the message of Christmas.

When quality matters to you

ODELL’S SHOES

H

Managing director rachel Wright said: “I am so proud and it is down to having excellent team.”

DAVID J FRAS PLUMBING & HEATING FRIENDLY, RELIABLE SERVICE EVERY TIME

Tel: 01234 293907 Mob: 07866 926433 NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

£

www.loake.co.uk

ODELL’S SHOES 8 St Cuthberts Street, Bedford MK40 3JB

01234 358 979 SALES AND TRADITIONAL REPAIR SERVICE

TO ADVERTISE CALL 07724 905406

WINTER PLANTED TUBS Two for £20

£16.99 EACH Tubs planted with Pansies, Primroses and Spring Bulbs www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk

Tel: 01234 823033

MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE

Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH

10 — BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Enjoying a good yarn at local store

IT WaS knitting needles at the ready when a local Knit and Natter group spent the morning at Hobbycraft in Bedford.

The ladies, based at oak Way House, Bedford Citizens Housing association on Kimbolton road, showed off their skills and wares to staff and customers. Some of the work included superb Christmas decorations and other seasonal creations.

Manager of Hobby Craft Dean Blunt was delighted to welcome the group to the shop. “It was great to have this lively group of ladies with us. We are pleased to have donated materials to the group and to see them put to such good use.”

A sweet treat for young chefs

SIxTeeN pupils, aged 11 to 14 years, were rewarded for their efforts in a national cookery competition with a sumptuous afternoon tea at the Swan Hotel in Bedford.

The young chefs all competed in the Future Chef competition and Head Chef Scott Liveridge and Banqueting Manager Danielle Day at the Swan Hotel judged their food.

Jake Brown and abi rayner were chosen to represent the school in the next round of the national Future Chef competition where Jake took second place.

Malcolm Wyse, General Manager at the Swan Hotel said: “It was an absolute pleasure to receive Castle Newnham’s amazing young chefs. We were so impressed that we invited them to visit the hotel and see a professional kitchen at work and have tea with us afterwards.”

This was a great experience for the pupils both in taking part in the competition, touring the hotel and then being able to enjoy a fabulous afternoon eating delicious finger sandwiches and fresh scones and cakes, said ruth Wilkes, Principal of Castle Newnham. “a very big well done to the pupils who took part and a big thank you to the Swan Hotel for their excellent hospitality.”

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 11

The Taxi firm you can trust!

Fully computerised data despatch system 4-8 seater – Contracts welcome

01234 43 43 43 Downlad our Free ‘App’ iPhone & Android We will notify you of the car and when it has arrived

A1CARS

24

HOUR S

25 Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU www.A1carsbedford.co.uk

All major cards accepted – Special rates for airports & long distance

New Bunyan’s Round Table

THe man whose work has been shared more widely than Shakespeare is being brought back to life in his home town (and beyond). John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress has been more influential than any book in the english language, other than the Bible. Since being published in the 17th Century it has never been out of print and has been translated and cherished across the world. Today there is even The Pilgrim’s Progress ‘theme park’ in South Korea, while visitors from the US and the Continent still make ‘pilgrimages’ to Bedford and his home village of elstow.

Bringing the book back to the classroom is ruth Broomhall, a teacher and author who co-wrote the devotional “To be a Pilgrim” (CWr, 2016) and has created a tool box of materials to enable teachers to bring the story to life for primary school children. The material is available via her website named after a significant building in the story palacebeautiful.co.uk ruth is now working on a new book about the little-known sequel to The Pilgrim’s Progress based on the pilgrim Christian’s wife Christiana and family. The children’s book will be illustrated by alasdair Bright and will include recognisable Bedfordshire landmarks and will recreate some of the monsters and challenges the family faced. She is working with children at Livingstone Primary School to help bring the story to life.

Deborah

MOBILE QUALIFIED STYLIST Perms, cuts, blowdrys, sets, colours - highlights etc

01234 210337 07976 394798

12 — BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018

Odell & Son PLUMBING & HEATING Local Run Family Business

WE’RE THE ONLY CALL YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE

Tel: 01234 855007 Mob: 07795 821595

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

Same Day Service & FREE Estimates FIXED PRICE BOILER SERVICE FOR £60 • Combi Specialists • Boiler Breakdown Services • Landlord Gas Safety Checks • Bathroom Refurbishments • Basic small leaks to Complete System Powerflushes 221794

Need an electrician?

Fully qualified • Professional • Clean & tidy work • Free quotations

Steve Peacock

01234 871366 07947 575124 GREAT BARFORD

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Consumer Unit replacements Shower replacement/install New Installations Security Lighting Rewires, Extensions PA Testing Testing and Inspecting Fault finding, minor maintenance Landlord safety certificates Emergency lighting upgrades

www.asohmelectrics.co.uk

email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

Your museum needs you!

aT 10.30am on Saturday 20th January, the John Bunyan museum and library is holding an open morning for anyone interested in volunteering at the museum.

This fantastic museum, in the heart of Bedford’s Cultural Quarter, is run by a team of dedicated volunteers of all ages. 2017 was such a great year, with the museum welcoming 6541 visitors into the museum, and another 4998 through projects outside the museum; meaning a total of 11,539 people engaged with the museum in 2017, compared to 5776 in 2016!

We need volunteers to help welcome the visitor, and keep the museum open. We are also looking for volunteers with skills and experience in working with schools, leading group tours, marketing, admin, or an interest in working with the collections.

Curator, Nicola Sherhod said: “The volunteers do a brilliant job.

They work in the museum and the shop, greeting visitors and sharing their own enthusiasm for the amazing story we tell here.

Volunteers can also work behind the scenes developing trails, and children’s craft activities, and helping look after our collections.

John Bunyan museum is open Saturdays only in January and February, and will reopen fully on Tuesday 13th February 2016. Tuesday to Saturday 11.00am – 4.00pm and admission is free.

For more details contact the Curator Nicola Sherhod on 01234 270303 or email curator@ bunyanmeeting.co.uk

OPENING TIMES

–––––––––––

Putting pupils in the picture

PrIory Primary School’s reception Class visited Bedford Library recently to meet children’s book illustrator Simon Prescott.

Simon has illustrated a book called ‘Marvin and Marigold – a Christmas Surprise’.

Simon read the story to the children and then they worked with him on making Christmas decorations like the ones in the book.

Louise youngman, Head teacher said: “The children had a fantastic time and thoroughly enjoyed the experience of working with a real illustrator and they certainly learned a lot whilst having fun at the same time.”

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 13 Grease is the word Grease was the word at Biddenham School recently when students staged their production of the popular musical set in the 1950s. The cast and crew outshone themselves with an amazing performance by students from Year 7 through to Year 13 taking part. Head teacher David Bailey said: “Once again our students do themselves proud with their amazing performances. Well done to everyone involved with the production. Without their talent, hard work and commitment the show would not have been possible.”

14 — BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Alison Brokenshire U. Bristol Uma Madhav U. Cardiff Hema Mistry U. London Kalyanie Gengeswaran U. London

GENERAL DENTISTRY HYGIENIST WHITENING COSMETIC DENTISTRY SPORTS GUARDS

We are currently taking on adult private patients and children under the age of 18 under the NHS.

KEMPSTON DENTAL PRACTICE 212 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford MK42 8BL

Tel: 01234 851192

www.kempstondentalpractice.com

Monday-Thursday 8.30-5pm Friday 8.30-4pm Occasional Saturday mornings 8.45-12.30pm

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com earlier this year, my office nominated Bedfordshire Police’s Community Cohesion Team for the Global equality and Diversity awards. I am absolutely delighted to say that they won the prestigious University of east London’s Chancellor’s award recently.

It shows that, although based in Luton, their impact to draw communities together works across the county and country - with other forces visiting Bedfordshire to see how they do what they do so well. This, now, has been recognised globally. What’s more they were competing for the award alongside major global corporate companies, IBM and Smart Sourcing.

I’ve been out with the team over the past 18 months to events and meetings from those at our Gurdwaras, Mosques, the Bedfordshire Synagogue and Christian churches to those marking the relationship with Community associations like those representing romanians in Luton and local groups in Queen’s Park.

COHESION TEAM AWARD

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

I recently listened in as my boss, the Bishop of St albans, who is a member of the House of Lords, and another politician debated how best to make a difference in regard to the disturbing level of gambling in our society. The evidence is there for us all to see, not least in the all-pervasive TV advertising.

Bishop alan is a leading figure among those seeking to bring into law one particular change – namely to reduce the stake allowed on Fixed odds Betting Terminals (FoBTs) from the present maximum of £100 a time to a much lower figure – ideally £2. The argument for this is simple, namely that the present odds are stacked against the gambler and are bringing misery to so many. Last year 223,000 FoBT users lost over £1000 in one sitting. In some cases families have lost their homes and been financially ruined.

SCANDALOUS CUTS TO RAIL SERVICES

Shortly before Christmas came the shock announcement that, from May, fast intercity trains will not stop at Bedford for three hours during the morning peak (southbound) and three hours during the evening peak (northbound). This dreadful loss of service will last for at least two years.

It is yet another example of the government downgrading and reducing public services in Bedford, even as it expects us to accommodate massive additional housing growth.

What the government surely doesn’t realise is the impact its appalling rail cuts will have on the day-to-day lives of thousands of Bedford rail users. Many local residents have made big decisions in their lives based on our rail services, such as changing jobs or moving home.

Update from the Police and Crime Commissioner

by Kathryn Holloway

This team really lives and breathes its work and, as PC Hayley Hunter said about this award, they’ve now won so many they need a new awards cabinet! Seriously, the team is living proof that public engagement is a priority for the Bedfordshire Police.

The Cohesion team attend a variety of local public events each year and run their own projects. For example, all members of the team have played a vital and visible role in Luton Carnival by creating a community float and, for the last

View from the Rt Revd

Richard Atkinson

The Bishop of Bedford

The person debating this with Bishop alan was fully onside with the concern about gambling in our society. What concerned her was that this was only a one-off action that wouldn’t solve the wider problem. There are so many other issues besides FoBTs. The debate went backwards and forwards. again and again, Bishop alan suggested it was better to do something rather than nothing; to achieve this first step.

I would love there to be more rigorous

In Focus with

Dave

by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford

Currently, the journey between London St Pancras and Bedford is as quick as 33 minutes.

Under these changes, the fastest journeys – on two existing Thameslink services with most stops removed – will be ‘around 45 minutes’.

Meanwhile, those travelling southbound to Bedford at peak times will have to catch a replacement bus from Wellingborough and back. What a desperate, scandalous

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 15

two years, they have successfully held a stall at The Big Iftar, an asian festival of culture, where they were able to engage with thousands. It is events like these that enable them to break down barriers and promote Bedfordshire Police as a career of choice for Black Minority ethnic (BMe) communities. This is clearly a successful approach as Bedfordshire Police is one of the highest recruiters of officers from BMe backgrounds of all 43 police forces across the UK. We have a fantastic opportunity, in the New year, for everyone in Bedfordshire to come together to celebrate our success as a county. on the 16th February, the Community Cohesion Team will be holding an awards ceremony.

I’m happy to be sponsoring the 2018 awards where more than 400 individuals who work in partnership with the team across all faiths, age groups and neighbourhoods county-wide will have the chance to say thank you to them for everything they do and build on work towards making Bedfordshire a more cohesive county. restrictions on gambling and especially protections for those who cannot afford to lose. and yet I know that you have to start somewhere.

Change often comes through small steps.

I am reminded of this story: one day, an old man was walking along a beach that was littered with thousands of starfish that had been washed ashore by the high tide. as he walked he came upon a young boy who was eagerly throwing the starfish back into the ocean, one by one.

Puzzled, the man looked at the boy and asked what he was doing. Without looking up from his task, the boy simply replied, “I’m saving these starfish, Sir”. The old man chuckled aloud, “Son, there are thousands of starfish and only one of you. What difference can you make?”

The boy picked up a starfish, gently tossed it into the water and turning to the man, said, “I made a difference to that one!”

This New year in the face of so many needs in our world, let us do something! Let us make that difference! state of affairs.

Bedford’s rail commuters pay thousands of pounds for their season tickets, and this shock news came just days after yet another inflationbusting fare rise was announced.

Neither rail users nor Bedford Borough Council were consulted about this, nor were they even given an explanation. once again, Bedford’s rail users are being taken for granted and treated as cash cows.

With the government proposing to remove Bedford from the intercity network altogether via the next east Midlands rail franchise, this sudden announcement smacks of an attempt to force through those plans by the back door. either way, it is an utter betrayal of Bedford’s rail users. If you agree that slower trains to London and rail replacement buses are unacceptable, you can sign the petition at www.mayodave.org.uk/bedfordtrains.

16 — BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018

LETTER TO THE EDITOR MAYORAL CANDIDATE THROWS HIS HAT IN THE RING

To THe eDITor: I’m very proud to announce that I’ve been chosen by the local Conservative associations to be the Mayoral Candidate for the 2019 local elections. It would be a huge honour for me to become the Mayor of my hometown. I was born, bred and educated in Bedford and have lived in the Borough all my life, apart from when I studied Law at University. after a career as a bank manager at HSBC, I joined the family firm as a partner, where I still work.

It is this background and experience which makes me, I believe, an ideal candidate to be Mayor. I know how hard it is to run a business, to build and motivate a team of people, to lead and inspire by example. I know how important it is to have a vison for the future, and how vital it is to plan for the unexpected, to ensure that the vision doesn’t get derailed.

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

These are qualities that are needed by a Mayor, to make sure that the Council is as efficient as possible, but also as transparent with the public as possible. I would seek to involve Councillors from aLL parties in making decisions, because running the council should NoT be about party politics.

There is much to be done to make our Borough even better, and I will be a Mayor you can speak to and who works hard to bring you value for money services. one thing I will promise is that I will seek the views of residents to find out what you want for our Borough.

I have many ideas around infrastructure, town centre improvement, regeneration, and schools to name a few and will be bringing forward detailed proposals over the coming months.

May I take this opportunity to thank those of you who have contacted me with your views and ideas over past few weeks and I look forward to hearing from many more residents.

email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

FE Gold award for Bedford College

BeDForD College won Gold at the Street campus. national College’s Marketing Bedford College has won funding Network Fe First awards evening. for the Centre via SeMLeP (South The events Management first east Midlands Local enterprise prize was given by the Marketing Partnership) which recognised how Network for a promotional event for the further education college is leadthe £5 Million advanced ing the way and working with interengineering Centre now being built national names such as Cranfield on the Cauldwell Street campus.

University as well as already providThe evening event was staged at ing a BSc in engineering with the the giant hangars at Cardington, University of Northampton. home of airships since the early The new advanced engineering 1900s. The event gave exclusive access to the giant airlander aircraft & Construction Centre is essential to to VIP guests from the business com- meet the skills required by UK businesses to maintain their place in the munity.

They were able to take close-up global economy. look at the latest dirigible to hit the It will increase student numbers headlines: the airlander aircraft, hear by an additional 300 full-time and presentations by engineering students part-time students and 150 higher and learn more about how Bedford level apprentices each year – thus College is leading they way in techni- meeting some of the huge demand cal training for from employers for skilled engineers.

Bedford has a proud history in The space will provide students manufacturing, previously being a national and WW2 centre for engi- with room to experiment with intellineering with companies such as WH gent design, analyse and assess proballen, rolls-royce and Texas lems, and develop real life solutions.

––––––––––––––––– Instruments operating in the town until the 1970s. This legacy of engineering is still reflected in the businesses which successfully operate across the county today.

Bedford College is linked to this legacy. Today it has a dedicated apprenticeship engineering centre and offers extensive ‘built environment’ and civil engineering facilities eaGLe Travel, based on Goldington at its award-winning eco designed road have been shortlisted in the Brundtland Building at its Cauldwell TTG Luxury Travel awards, in the category of ‘Luxury Travel agency of the year’.

The prestigious TTG Luxury Travel awards will be a reflection of the very best in the luxury sector and will be a benchmark for quality, seeking out those who innovate and deliver incredible customer service. The awards are being curated by Travel Trade Gazette; the weekly magazine for the travel industry, with the winners decided by a select panel of industry experts. eagle Travel are just one of eight travel agencies in the whole of the UK to be shortlisted for this accolade. Managing Director Sue alexander says of the nomination “I am absolutely thrilled and delighted to be a finalist for this award.”

Agency shortlisted for top award

Debs

Professional Hairdressing MOBILE OR HOME SALON WIDE AREA COVERED

Tel: 07717 176786 Email: debbrehony@btinternet.com

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 17

300 Rainbows celebrate Christmas

SunDaY 3rd December saw 300 rainbows and 120 leaders, from across Bedfordshire, attend the rainbow Winter Wonderland event held at Denbigh School in luton.

The theme of the event was, Christmas, and it was a wonderful opportunity for girls from across Bedford County to meet each other and take part in some fun activities including live entertainment, indoor winter games and crafts and there was even a visit from Santa!

Organiser leader Danielle Ellis said: “We have had an amazing day; the girls have had the chance to do things they would not normally do, plus with Santa making a visit it was a very magical day for our rainbows.” rainbows is the start of the Girlguiding adventure and is for all girls aged five to seven. Girlguiding is a super way for girls to have their own space; it gives girls a voice and has changed girl’s lives.

Girlguiding is a charity and is looking for volunteers, so if you feel you could Get involved they would love to hear from you.

Please call 0800 169 5901 or visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/interested You can also Follow on Facebook at facebook.com/ GirlguidingBeds and on Twitter @BedsGuides

Lightning performance by ‘Bolts’!

THe Ladies Bedford ‘Bolts’ put in a lightning performance against the Welwyn Pegasus azures Women.

Bedford Ladies & Girls FC Development team, ‘The Bolts’ play in the third division of The Beds & Herts Women’s Football League. It is their first year playing at Ladies level.

The team travelled to Welwyn on Sunday 2nd December for what promised to be a very competitive match between two top of the table teams.

Having suffered a few injuries ‘The Bedford Bolts’ started with only ten players.

Undeterred Cayleigh Jackson kept her cool in front of goal following a great pass in from Captain, Jess Bunnage, opening the scoring at 8 minutes into the match. This was followed quickly by another Jess put in to Susannah Hall who scored the second goal of the match, and in her debut appearance, but unfortunately Susannah received an injury in the process which saw her unable to continue the match. after the restart Welwyn found the target but were denied by the Bedford goalie, alex Shore. Her experience in her debut appearance for the Bedford

Ladies First Team the previous week obviously fresh in her mind. alex put in a great performance but with the opposition keeping up the pressure they were eventually rewarded with a goal putting the scoreline at 2-1.

The Bedford Bolts dug in with Paige abraham working hard on the

wing and creating lots of chances. The team continued to press and Jo Makin stormed forward to receive a sweet diagonal through ball from Katy Peters allowing Jo to find the back of the net.

Welwyn responded with a neat finish into goal, leaving the half time score at 3-2 to ‘The Bolts’.

John Frost, ‘The Bolts’ coach asked the ladies to stick to the game plan and continue with the same commitment in the second half and he was not disappointed.

Bex Lenton in midfield was covering every blade of grass on the pitch and commanding her area ensuring the team retained possession. added to which Lauren Cotterell caused lots of problems for Welwyn Ladies with her forward running and pressing high.

Holly Wisson won the ball and played an accurately weighted pass for Jess Bunnage to chase, resulting in a confident finish and putting the scoreline at 4-2.

With a great team effort the Bedford Ladies played out the game creating more chances and keeping the opposition at bay but could not find any more goals. a very exciting, competent and creative display from ‘The Bolts’ ended the match with a final score of 42.

If you would like to sponsor, support or play for Bedford Ladies & Girls FC please contact us by email to info@bedfordladies-girlsfc.org (web: www.Bedfordladies-girlsfc.org)

MOTORBIKES/SCOOTERS/MOPEDS WANTED WANTED Any condition or age, crash damaged, MoT failures etc PHONE CHRIS ON:

07710 324170 / 01525 759236 www.allmotorcycleswanted.co.uk

18 — BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

JANUARY IN THE GARDEN – by Milton Ernest Garden Centre

Winter colour is still with us

UST because it’s January and the depths of winter not all the hardy plants in our gardens are sleeping. Many are showing features that at other times of year are hidden from view like colourful bark, spectacular buds, changing leaf colour and some are even flowering. Many of the flowering plants can be grown in tubs and enjoyed as we leave the house in the morning or come home after a busy day.

Daphne odora rebecca is a choice evergreen plant. Its small flowers are pink and white and exquisitely perfumed. The gorgeous leaves are glossy green with a bright yellow edge. It is very suited to grow in a pot in a sheltered sunny place. Sarcococca Humulis, The Christmas Flowering Box, is another evergreen which is suitable to grow in pots. It has small white sweetly scented flowers and is a lovely specimen to grow next to the front door but move it to a shady place before summer. Both these plants should be planted using JI compost number 3 mixed with sharp sand and peat. Camellia yuletide is also suited to pot culture but should be planted in ericaceous compost. It is evergreen with shiny green foliage and bright scarlet single flowers with golden yellow centres. It is one of the earliest flowering Camellias. Helleborus Niger, The Christmas rose, with its glistening white flowers is another flowering treasure for pots at this time of year. Look out for the new cultivars like H. Niger Joshua, Jacob or Josef Lemper.

There are also border shrubs brightening these cold winter days. Mahonias, The Lily of the Valley Bush, has evergreen foliage and sprays of scented sulphur yellow flowers.

Varieties vary in size from Mahonia Charity a

J

magnificent screening shrub growing to four metres high to Mahonia apollo with bright buttercup yellow flowers about 1 meter tall.

Mahonias grow well in the shade canopy of larger trees. Viburnum Tinus is another winter flowering evergreen with very fragrant pink and white flowers that appear from December to March. Compact varieties are V.eve Price and V. Lillarose. This plant can be vigorously pruned and lends itself well to topiary.

Jasmine Nudiflorum is the winter flowering Jasmine. It is covered in bright yellow scented flowers on bare stems from December to March. It grows well against a fence or up a post where it can be trained to give a waterfall effect. Clematis Cirrhosa is an evergreen climbing plant which is a delight when grown against a sheltered wall or fence. The flowers are creamy bells, delicately scented with maroon speckled markings. Hamamelis, Witch Hazel, is another shrub that loses its leaves in autumn after spectacular leaf colour and starts flowering in January. The flowers are bright yellow, perfumed and a curious spidery shape. This plant must be grown in ericaceous compost. Skimmia rubella is a small evergreen which sets its showy red buds in late summer. They stay all through winter opening in april to white flowers with lots of pollen for the bees to pollinate female varieties to produce bright red berries.

Some shrubs have beautifully coloured bark which is only seen in winter time when the leaves have fallen. Cornus, The Dogwoods, all have coloured bark, C. alba Siberica has bright red stems, C. Mid Winter Fire has brilliant orange stems and C Stolonifera has bright lime yellow bark that glows in the winter sunlight. Many trees have brilliant

coloured bark which adds lots of colour to the landscape. Silver Birch is well known for their white bark. Betula Snow Queen and Grayswood Ghost have amazingly white bark that looks as if it has been painted with Dulux Brilliant White emulsion. The Snake barked Maples like acer Davidii or a. Capillipes has attractively striped silver and bright green bark while acer Senkaki is a warm glowing coral colour.

There are also some plants that still have berries in January. Pyracantha Teton is an evergreen shrub which flowers in spring and has bright orange berries from october until the birds take them as u lose its berries so do the birds not like the flavour? Callicarpa has lilac berries that look like shiny beads. This plant looks good in a winter tub under planted

with Pansies Crocus and erica Carnea. Finally the most loved evergreen for winter berries is Holly. The pillar box red berries appear in November on varieties that bear female flowers like Ilex Silver Van Tol, I. Golden King, I. Pyramidalis and the dwarf I. Golden Flash.

Join us when we support rSPB BiG GarDEn BirD WaTCH JanuarY 26th & JanuarY 27th See the web site for details atwww.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk

FORTH COMING EVENTS

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 19

out & about Great night of comedy in store

Castle Comedy & Mark rutherford School presents The raymond and Mr Timpkins revue, Craig Murray & olaf Falafel a fabulous evening awaits at Mark rutherford School, as Castle Comedy teams up with Mark rutherford to put on a comedy extravaganza. The aim is to laugh and raise money for our Camps International Trip to Cambodia The date for your diaries is Friday January 19th and the evening features a line up of top quality names.

The raymond and mr Timpkins revue simply have to be seen to be believed! They are without a doubt the maddest, silliest, stupidest, cleverest, strangest and the funniest double act of comedians on the circuit. Likened to Morecambe and Wise and the Two ronnies, they can bring the house down with nothing more than a couple of Lidl carrier bags and an oasis song! If you like music and let’s face it, who doesn’t, you’ll like them. If you like silliness, middle aged men dancing and unsavoury acts, you’ll love them!

“The original and the best, go see the Raymond Timpkins Revue” David Walliams “A mad, anarchic triumph of stupidity over style. Not to be missed” The Guardian opening the show is Craig murray a charming yorkshireman and one of the hottest talents on the UK comedy circuit! He is the star of the PlusNet Broadband adverts and as a comic… he’ll do you proud! He has shared a stage with some of the very best comedy acts in the business including Harry Hill, Stewart Lee and even Hollywood legend robin Williams. In 2015 he opened a show in front of 5,000 people when he supported eddie Izzard on his UK tour!

“Bloody funny” Jo Brand also on the bill is Swedish comedy sensation and multiple award winner, Olaf Falafel.

With a unique mixture of oneliners and Scandinavian-tinged stories he has earned the purely fictitious title of ‘Sweden’s eighth funniest comedian’.

Winner of Last Minute Comedian of the year 2013 &

Golden Jester Champion 2014 “A mixture of audience interaction and jokes worthy of Milton Jones. His easy confidence and a sense of performance endeared him to the crowd” Chortle your host for the evening is Paul revill, who won the prestigious

Bath Comedy Festival New act of the year in 2014.

“Steals the show” HHHH Three Weeks Shows start at 8.00pm and tickets are £10 which includes free onsite parking.

Mark rutherford School,

Wentworth Drive, Bedford, MK41 8Px. To book tickets email James.Doughty@mrus.co.uk or go to: www.wegottickets.com/ event/424917 CaSTLe CoMeDy – BrINGING CoMeDy royaLTy To BeDForDSHIre

20 — BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Evening of music St Mary’s Church, Woburn Saturday 3 March, 7.30pm

babyballet® Biggleswade & Bedford’s little stars danced in pyjamas from the 11th – 17th November to raise money for Children In Need. We raised a fantastic £409.11 and are over the moon!

We had so much fun and throughout the UK all of the babyballet stars raised an amazing £16,477.52!

Macmillan Mammoth Quiz celebrates 10th anniversary!

The Macmillan Mammoth Quiz is back, celebrating its 10th anniversary with a brand new, brainteasing quiz for 2018.

The Mammoth Quiz organised

by the oundle Macmillan Committee is Macmillan’s nationwide quiz. Simply put, it is the same quiz, being held on the same day, at the same time, throughout the country. The mammoth quiz even holds the Guinness World record for the world’s largest simultaneous quiz. We need you to help make the 2018 Macmillan Quiz the biggest and best yet.

Macmillan are looking for local groups and businesses across the UK to host a quiz on 23rd February 2018 to raise vital funds for people affected by cancer.

It’s a really fun and easy way to raise money for Macmillan, and you can hold your quiz anywhere from the local pub or bowling club to the office or school.

Previous participants have commented “It was a great quiz and everyone enjoyed it tremendously” and that “the questions are so interesting and catch the imagination”.

It’s free to sign up to host a Mammoth Quiz, you will be sent a welcome pack with a 2018 quiz and fundraising materials. all that is left for you to do is book a venue and sell tickets! In your pack you will find tips for organising your quiz, posters and tickets and some information about Macmillan.

To register for your 2018 quiz pack, find out more about the Mammoth Quiz and start downloading sample questions and fundraising materials, please log on to www.macmillan.org.uk/mammoth CHrIST THe KING ParISH HaLL Harrowden road, Bedford MK42 0SP 9am to noon Saturday 13th Jan

entry 50p refreshments available For information call 01234 965497

TABLE TOP SALE 2pm to 4pm Friday 26th Jan

AFTERNOON VINTAGE TEA

admission £3 - Tea, cake and dancing For Information call 01234 404563 7.30pm Friday 26th Jan

Bar available Tickets £7.00 includes fish and chip supper For information call 01234 965497

QUIZ NIGHT

There’s plenty ahead in Bedfordshire to brighten your spirits after the winter gloom – daffodils, ducklings, daylight and the divine Danesborough Chorus whose next concert features four contrasting choral gems composed by rheinberger, Sullivan (of Gilbert and Sullivan fame), Britten and Tippett, taking the audience on a musical journey from the Victorian era to mid 20th century.

There’s ‘two for the price of one’, when the Danesborough divides into two unaccompanied choirs to perform rheinberger’s flowing, melodic Mass in e flat, first published in 1878. Sullivan’s dignified Te Deum Laudamus is a thanksgiving anthem written in 1900 to mark the coming end of the Boer War, though it wasn’t performed until 1902. Britten’s rejoice in the Lamb, one of his most popular choral compositions, has almost local connections, having been commissioned in 1943 for the 50th anniversary of St Matthew’s Church in Northampton. Tippett’s inspired oratorio a Child of our Time, composed during the Second World War, uses five american spirituals and is reminiscent of Bach’s use of chorales in his Passions. www.danesborough.org.uk

Flower Festival

Brighten the dark winter days with this joyous Flower Festival at Candlemas which marks the end of the six weeks following Christmas.

The historic town centre church of St Paul’s, Bedford will make a majestic setting for creative floral displays.

60 displays will be mounted throughout the church by groups and individuals from across the county.

These include local branches of the National association of Flower arrangement Societies (NaFaS), Bedfordshire Women’s Institute, Bedford Country Market, Queen’s Park Community orchard, numerous places of worship across the region from St albans abbey and Bunyan Meeting to Peterborough Cathedral as well as the road Victims Trust, St John’s Hospice and commercial florists.

Don’t miss this chance over the first weekend in February to be inspired by the imaginative and beautiful arrangements of flowers and to support this major fundraising project for St Paul’s church. The Festival concludes with Choral evensong for Candlemas, Sunday 4th February, 5.30 pm, sung by the choir of St Paul’s, Bedford, one of the finest in the area, under the direction of Ian runnells. open Friday and Saturday 10-4, Sunday 2-4.

St Paul’s, Bedford

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com This is a great time to support your local radio station by taking a few minutes to fill out our survey which is online at www.in2beats.com This market research will help us collect the necessary data to help us grow the station, give you more beats and more opportunities. remember: spread the word, share on social media; the bigger we get, the better we get! Keep it In2beats!

Want to get involved?

It is a great time to join the team, as we are now on our second community radio licence. We are recruiting DJs, presenters, sales staff and social media volunteers. If you believe you could offer something positive to the station and our listeners we want to hear from you! There are positions for producers, engineers, news reporters with professional experience and time to volunteer. empowering people through radio opportunities. radio connects people to music and local information, the bigger our team the more we can do. not heard of in2beats 106.5Fm before?

In2beats is your local radio station on 106.5FM and online with over 60 dedicated DJ’s/presenters, from 7am-12am, 7 days a week since 2011. all the team are passionate about the music they play, which covers many genres: house, garage, dance, rnb, reggae, jungle, soul, jazz, dnb, club tunes, 90s!

We are inclusive because music knows no age, it makes you feel young! If you love your music, can’t stand the same playlist on repeat and want something exciting and different, check out the schedule on our website to find a show suited to you. or just tune in, you don’t know till you try it!

We support locally produced music, by showcasing new artists on the #luvlocal show with DJ KC on Monday drive-times and throughout the week on various other shows.

Musicians and producers are encouraged to send finished tracks to music@in2beats.com for your chance to get your music on air.

Something for everyone!

Monday Mornings at 11am we have Monday Motivation with Matt from Grow, who is a life coach, mentor and wellbeing expert! tune in for tips on staying healthy and well.

We have the Jazz and World Music Show at 10pm with Tony Catz on Monday until midnight.

The Gourmet Soulful Music show with Leigh The Flava is a popular evening show on Wednesdays 6-8pm, with celebrity interviews a regular feature.

For a gentle start to your Sunday tune in to DJ Phoenix playing a variety of genres, to ease you up from 8am-10am.

More information about our programming can be found online by looking at the schedule or DJ profiles. you can also listen live from our website or use the wireless in Bedford on 106.5fm.

Are you In2beats?

You can also contact the in2beats team on: FB /in2beats Twitter /in2beats Telephone 01234352244 email enquiries@in2beats.com Live Studio Text line 07786200690 Text ‘Beats’ space and then your message (this is the best way to influence the music we play by requesting what you like).

BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018 — 21

22 — BEDFORD BULLETIN JANUARY 2018

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

HOMEMADE WINTER WARMING SOUP Served with Pumpkin and Chia seed crusty bread

www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk

£3.50

Tel: 01234 823033

MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE

Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH

–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– MUSIC oN THUrSDayS aLL SaINTS ParISH CHUrCH BeDForD arCHITeCTUraL, 3T’S TODDLER GROUP KeMPSToN arCHaeoLoGICaL & LoCaL ALBION STRING We are a (non-profit making)Toddler HISTory SoCIeTy Group who meet at Centenary Hall, QUARTET FULL AFTERNOON TEA 7.30pm Wednesday 10th January 104 Bedford road, Kempston on 7.45pm, Thursday 18 Jan 2018 & A GUIDED TOUR Tuesday from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm Illustrated talk

Flight Research at the Royal Aircraft Establishment (Bedford)

Barry Tomlinson (Bedford aeronautical Heritage Group) Putnoe Heights Church & Community Centre Bedford mK41 8EB Non-members welcome - £3:00 entry enquiries (01234) 365095 www.baalhs.org.uk aDDISoN CeNTre, KeMPSToN

–––––––––––––––––––––––– FUND RAISING TEA DANCE

mOnDaY 29TH Jan 2018 2.00pm to 4.30pm £3.00 (INCL CUPPa)

Bunyan Meeting Tickets £18, Students 18-24 £5, Under 18 £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk

BeDForD LoCaL GroUP oF THe WILDLIFe TrUST Wednesday 10th January 2018 meeting 7.15 for 7.30pm

––––––––––––––––––––––––

‘Recent Developments in Recording Bats in Bedfordshire’

an illustrated talk by Bob Cornes and Jude Hirstwood Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. Plenty parking available, all welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated.

Further details available under events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057

w

of this historic church to visiting groups of 10 or above at a cost per head of £7.95.

Contacts are Janet Fardell on 01234 855158 email:martinandjanet1@btinternet.com or Frances Leonard on 01234 852480 email: francesmleonard@gmail.com

–––––––––––––––––––––––– WORLD SHIP SOCIETY Kempston Constitution Club 196a Bedford road, Kempston 3rd WeDNeSDay in the month 17 January 2018 roy Fenton giving a presentation on

BEDFORD BRANCH

“The Panama Canal” 19:30 for 20:00 start Telephone: 01234 352014

(term time only) ample free parking is available on site.

Please come along to a fun, friendly group for toddlers (new born up to school age).

We have a large range of toys and activities for the children to enjoy, where they can learn to share and socialise We provide refreshments for both child and carer.

Come along to our relaxed and happy group and see for yourself what fun the children have together.

Contact: Debbie on 07975 –772-058 or Suzanne on 01234-857467.

–––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON GARDENS ASSOCIATION

If you are interested gardening why not come along to our meetings.

New members and visitors welcome.

We meet the second Wednesday of most months of the year in all Saints Church Hall, Cemetery road Kempston. We have speakers and demonstrations covering every aspect of gardening from Window Boxes to allotments and outings are also arranged throughout the year.

For further information contact Trevor on 01234 856040 or Marian on 01234 855288

–––––––––––––––––––––––– SHARNBROOK COMMUNITY GOSPEL Tel: 01234 851877 or 01234 340997 –––––––––––––––––––––––– CHOIR –––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON AND Leader – Mike Gibbons BeDForD NaTIoNaL TrUST DISTRICT MODEL Performing music to Lift your spirits & aSSoCIaTIoN –––––––––––––––––––––––– RAILWAY SOCIETY Warm your hearts on a Winter’s evening February meeting every Monday 7.30 to 10.00 BLACK CRICKET St Owen’s Church, Bromham mK43 Tuesday 20th 2.00 for 2.30 at the Church of the Transfiguration rear 8ll KIDS CLUB Speaker: Sue Jarrett on church hall

“The Great North Road”

Sue Jarrett lives in eaton Socon and knows all about it, and how it was affected by the advent of the a1.

Many towns must have been similarly altered by new roads and this will give us an insight into unexpected side effects of such roads.

The meeting takes place in the addison Centre in Kempston, where there is plenty of parking.

Tea / coffee are served from 2.00 There will be a small charge. everyone is welcome For further information rings Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421.

New members welcome For further details contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com BeDForDSHIre FaMILy HISTory SoCIeTy Drama Hall, Mark rutherford School Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8Px 7.15pm Friday 12th January 2018 Bedfordshire Family History Society Interested in Family History?

Then come along to the next monthly talk on

––––––––––––––––––––––––

‘Letters from the Front’

by Margaret Butt Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk

7.30pm on Saturday 20th January adults - £8 u16 - £4 refreshments available reservations: 01234 825454 (mornings) 01234 826551 (evenings)

–––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB DaNCING, WHIST, BINGo Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm

at the CeNTeNary HaLL, behind Kempston Town Hall, Bedford road For further information telephone:

01234 857011

Great for aspiring animal keepers, entomologists and herpetologists.

First Wednesday of every month in Shortstown Village Hall, Southcote, Shortstown, Bedford, mK42 0Ql. Fun, educational and entertaining sessions for children aged 5 - 13 who love animals, pets and wildlife. Meet a range of animals from around the world from reptiles, invertebrates, mammals, birds, amphibians and fish, learn to look after them and handle them correctly.

Children with SeND are warmly welcomed and sessions are differentiated to meet individual needs.

Sessions are £5 per child (siblings £3). registration is required. www.blackcricket.co.uk/kids-club www.facebook.com/blackcricketkidsclub email: kidsclub@blackcricket.co.uk

–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––

The Bedford Bulletin is an independent magazine with no affiliation to any other organisation. Published by Š 2018 rosetta Publishing Ltd. 30 radwell road, Milton ernest, Bedford MK44 1SH. Tel: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email all departments:pat@rosettapublishing.com. Printed by: Mortons Print Limited, Newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6Jr.