BEDFORD BOROUGH EDITION
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BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 3
SPREADING THE GOOD NEWS
Start spreading the good news: Bedford’s footfall numbers rocketed in the last full week in January. after a national on-line diversion during December, when busy families took deliveries at home, visitors are back in the town centre with a massive increase compared to the same period in 2017 2018 UP 8.8% in Bedford compared to a fall of 0.4% across UK That last week (Jan 22nd-28th) increase was fuelled by a massive surge on the January pay day weekend Sunday up +40% Friday up +24% and the biggest ‘actual’ numbers still coming in on a Saturday Christina rowe, Director of BedfordBID said: “Bedford rallied in the last weekend before Christmas with people popping and shopping for all those last minute items for the Yuletide and New Year. Like all towns we had
been hit earlier in December with the on-line shopping trend, but now Christmas is over, the visitors are back . “Free parking is an element, but that has to be promoted as part of an attractive offer which is exactly what the Love Bedford brand does for town centre businesses. “Bedford Business Improvement District (BID) which finances all the Love Bedford activity through contributions by town centre levy-payers. We promote Bedford to audiences far and wide.” as one of the original town centre BIDs, Bedford has pioneered a range of activities which other BIDs now follow – such as the customer research programme. “Its success is one of many and well documented with visitor numbers bucking the national trend as a result of multi-media campaigns BedfordBID has developed over the years. “Understanding who our potential customers
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are, is part of a unique initiative the BedfordBID embarked upon with market leaders Shopper anonymous to help shape longer term visioning for town centre growth and prosperity. “BedfordBID commissioned an industry first with Shopper anonymous who have conducted thousands of interviews and feedbacks to provide the most authoritative programme of research in the BID industry. “this is a further demonstration of the pioneering spirit of the BedfordBID team who were one of the first Business Improvement Districts introduced in 2005; now there are over 290 following this model including Central Milton Keynes, Cambridge, Northampton and many other surrounding towns.” to find out more about BedfordBID visit www.lovebedford.co.uk Christina Rowe Director of BedfordBID
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tHe Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Jeremy Hunt was in Bedford recently to meet local Conservative members, councillors and candidates including gianni Carofano who is the Mayoral candi-
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date for Bedford Borough. gianni said: “We were delighted to welcome the Secretary of State to the town and to have the opportunity to discuss important issues related to the NHS and care services.”
Scouter aiming to recapture record
a FUN-LovINg Bedfordshire Scout Leader plans to recapture her world record on stilts at this year’s London virgin Marathon in april. Kempstonborn Michelle Frost, was the first to set the world record in 2008 when she did the London Marathon in eight hours 25 minutes. Four years later her record was beaten by Hammersmith brother and sister george and Charley Phillips who crossed the line in six hours 50 minutes. Michelle, now aged 32, has been stilt walking for over 20 years and hopes to shave at least an hour off this record on april 22nd. She will be cheered all the way by Beaver Scouts from her Bedford and ouse valley Scout group. at nine feet tall she will be easy to spot. this Wootton Upper School pupil, who found out she was a natural on stilts at the age of 12, will be running in aid of the MND association a charity supporting those affected by motor neurone disease. to donate to her charity go to: Justgiving.com/Michelle-Frost5.
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40th River Festival
FirST held in 1978, the 20th bi-ennial Bedford river Festival will take place on Saturday 14th – Sunday 15th July. Now recognised as one of the largest outdoor events of its kind in the UK, the 2016 festival saw over 250,000 visitors enjoy the unique mix of carnival, music and nautical. This year’s river Festival promises to be even more popular with the event celebrating its 40th birthday. 2018 marks the end of the World War i and in the Heritage Village will be commemorating this by showcasing all aspects of the war with over 50 re-enactors, displays and demonstrations.
All in a days work
PUPILS at Priory Primary School were looking to the future during their recent aspirations Week. Year 5 pupils welcomed visitors to come and talk to their class about their different jobs and careers. these included a nurse, firefighter, journalist and even a former professional footballer.
Louise Youngman, Head teacher said that the week was a great success. “the children really enjoyed meeting our visitors and were very interested and enthusiastic about their jobs and asked lots of questions. the aim of the week was to look at different careers and think about what they may like to do when they are older.”
Former local professional footballer Rob Sinclair pictured with Year 5.
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BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 7
Scott Primary welcomes special visitor
Gold medal winning sprinter leon Bapiste visited Scott Primary School to deliver an inspiring and engaging assembly. Not only that, 300 children took part in a sponsored circuits session to really get them motivated, and the teachers didn’t get away with it – they took part too! The visit was arranged with Sports for Champions, an organisation who promote awareness to young people whilst helping raise money for future athletes to compete at Commonwealth and olympic level. The students were amazing and very enthusiastic taking part in all the sporting activities. They all went away with the important message that hard work and determination helps achieves your full potential. A fantastic £1,400 was raised with funds being shared with leon and the school.
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Bedford Free School – a part of Advantage Schools
Bedford Free School is different
Situated in the middle of town, it would be easy to miss BFS. But this school is leading the way in the region. Every month it hosts twenty Headteachers and Principals from across the country to show how it manages to create a unique ethos. At BFS, there is the calmest corridors, where pupils move from lesson to lesson in silence carrying their equipment with them. Student Leaders show visitors on daily tours in classrooms where 100% of the lesson time is spent on learning, and Senior Leaders and the Principal tour the school checking that all pupils can learn and achieve.
The focus of BFS is on an academic curriculum. Pupils study difficult academic GCSE subjects in year 10 and 11, and all pupils study only subjects that will allow them to access A-levels and universities. There are no ‘easy’ qualifications because we know that our pupils will be competing with pupils from across the country as they aspire to ‘climb the BFS mountain of success’ to university and beyond.
Visitors are always stunned by the atmosphere and ethos in the school as behaviour is impeccable. This is driven by a positive culture of hard work centred around the school’s values of respect, honesty and high expectations. In the morning, the day begins with a morning address, where the Principal or another Senior Leader talks to the pupils about our values and all pupils are reminded to work hard and be nice. Pupils only enter the building once senior staff have checked their uniform is perfect and they have all of their equipment and are ready for learning.
The extended school day — the school is open from 8am-6pm and compulsory from 8.25am-4pm (or 4.45pm if pupils need to catch up on something they haven’t mastered) allows the school to run extra-curricular activities during the school day so everyone can take part.
BFS also has daily ‘prep’ so pupils can start (and in the younger year groups, finish) their homework, and a daily 30 minutes where all pupils read a classic work of literature together, the aim being that pupils have
l Preparing and planning the Beds police radio advert.
read up to 100 of the best works of literature in their time at BFS.
Huge parental engagement at BFS
We work in partnership with parents, offering a minimum of two parents’ evenings per year. The most recent have had well over 90% attendance from parents, and parent contact is made every term, alongside parents’ forums, focus groups, and surveys.
Admissions:
We are significantly oversubscribed, with several applications per place and parents applying from as far as twenty miles away to go to BFS, attracted by our academic ethos, incredibly high expectations, extended school day, and electives programme. Come and visit us to find out more — you will be blown away!
Recent successes
Two groups of pupils have reached the final of the Bedfordshire Police Challenge to create anti-knife crime adverts for radio. You can see their work on youtube and one of the groups is in the picture. Please have a listen.
For further information www.bedfordfreeschool.co.uk info@bedfordfreeschool.co.uk 01234 332299
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BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 9
Afternoon tea – French style
CoMBININg an english tradition (invented by Duchess of Bedfordshire in 19th century!) with the tastes of French pâtisserie – afternoon tea is now available at Délices bakery and café. In the english tradition but definitely in a French style: the breads, cakes, viennoiseries (pastries) are 100% French recipes. available by advance bookings only, the afternoon tea dishes (photographed) are for adults priced at £22 per head but there is a children’s version too (£10)
St Thomas More bounces to victory
over the last few months both the girls’ and the boys’ basketball teams at St thomas More Catholic Secondary School have been competing in the Basketball County Championship. the girls’ team had been practicing hard to make sure that they were going to perform their best in each game and their efforts paid off when they managed to win all six of their games to take the title. the girls have been unbeaten in the last 10 games that they have played. the boys’ team decided that they needed to make it a clean sweep for St thomas More and they went on to win three of the games that they played which secured them the top spot! ––––––––––––––––
5000 trees planted in Cranfield
IN February over 500 people braved the cold to plant 5000 trees at Waypost Wood in Cranfield. Waypost Wood is the newest site to be planted as part of the Forest of Marston vale but now that it’s nearly completed, what is next for the Forest of Marston vale? “We are working with DeFra as part of their project to plant one million trees for schools. this year, five local schools have signed up and the plan is to plant 2000 trees across their grounds with the help of the children.” Says Community engagement officer Jo roberts. “Last year we worked with four local schools and the children loved it – it’s a great way to get them outdoors and appreciating nature, whilst making their school, and community, a better place.” the government have made a huge pledge in their recent white paper to plant 50 million trees over the next 25 years, and the Forest of Marston vale has its own ambitious target to plant another five million – considering one mature tree alone can house 500 species, and provide enough air for two people, it’s fair to say that trees make life better.
for those bigger family treats. Délices also offers a vegetarian option for the adult and children menus. Délices is owned and run by Diana Woo and géraldine Perrier Latour who moved from Paris to Bedford to set up their own business at 7 Howard Street within the well established art Centre & gallery. they bake for retail and for their tearoom as well as for other restaurants in the area which want authentic and organic French breads and gâteaux.
Christina Rowe from Love Bedford, is pictured centre, samples the French Afternoon Tea with Diana Woo left and Géraldine Perrier Latour, right.
10 — BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018
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Raising money for Hospice World-wide performances
MILtoN ernest resident Jos Daalhuizen has a a history of undertaking long distance cycle rides to support Bedford Daycare Hospice. this month (March 11) he and appoximately 35,000 riders will participate in the Cape town Cycle tour. Cycling 109km (about 66.3 miles) over 11 hills and more than 4000ft of climbs. this is the London marathon PLUS of the cycling world which has taken place
over the last 40 years. Jos is cycling to raise money for the Linden road, Bedford-based Bedford Daycare Hospice who do fabulous work. the link to his web page is uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JosDaal huizen1 Jos is keen to emphasise that all monies raised will go towards the £80K needed for the expansion plans of the hospice to help and support more people and their families.
Meet emma-ruth richards an internationally acclaimed composer and resident in the Castle area of Bedford. Her work as a composer of ‘serious music’ has taken her all over the world. Her most recent composition, Sciamachy was commissioned by the Britten Sinfonia with funds from the William alwyn Foundation. this was performed at London’s Barbican Hall in December and last month at the Saffron Hall, Saffron Walden by the Britten Sinfonia. emma-ruth’s career started with study at Cardiff
University and then at the royal Northern College of Music, and she has since worked with composers such as Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, oliver Knussen, alexander goehr and Colin Matthews. this year there will be the premiere of a new cello duet for Classical Brit award winner guy Johnston and the 2016 BBC Young Musician of the Year; Sheku KannehMason, american premieres of ‘Hora de la Cerc’ with Camerata Pacifica, California, and portrait concerts in Manchester’s Stoller Hall. 2019 will see a new CD release with Parma recordings and the New York premiere of ‘Dark radiance’ at Carnegie Hall. emma-ruth’s music has been performed on the international stage, taking her to Hong Kong, Den Haag, Banff, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. She is a royal Northern gold Medal composer and has featured in festivals including aldeburgh, Music of today, Sounds New Canterbury, Internationaal Kamermuziek festival Den Haag, Sound Scotland, Queen’s Belfast, North West, and the St. Magnus Festival. Her work locally involves using her 12 years’ teaching experience at Bedford School and tutoring private students in piano, composition, aural training, gCSe and a Level music. –––––––––––––––
A tale of two scholarships
tWo recipients of the Connolly Scholarship Bursaries and former Students of Bidddenham School have spoken about how much it has helped them in their education. the bursaries are awards for academic excellence for students going on to university who attend the Foundation’s seven partner schools. the academic excellence award provides a sum of up to £1000 per student depending on grades achieved. Francis Simmons said: “the Connolly Foundation Scholarship scheme has been of great assistance to me in my first year of university life.” Kayley Castle said: “thanks to the Foundation, I haven’t had to get a parttime job, which means I have more time to focus on my studies. “ ––––––––––––––––– to tHe eDItor: I feel I must write to say what a wonderful lady Betty Fetts is (re last month’s magazine). Myself and friends went to the show that ‘Frame of Mind’ put on, it was two hours of non-stop dancing and singing. getting back to Betty, she also walks, dances and goes to a very energetic keep fit class and is a very willing helper at the fund raising tea dances at the addison Centre. Betty is certainly an inspiration to all her friends. Maureen Smith, Kempston
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BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 11
Meeting real life superheroes
CHILDreN from Westfield School had the opportunity to meet some real life ‘superheroes’ when they were visited by firefighters from Bedfordshire Fire and rescue Service. the Year 1 children had been working on a project about superheroes so were very excited when Firefighters from green Watch, at Kempston Fire Station, agreed to come along and meet the children, complete with a fire engine and all of their equipment. the Firefighters talked to the children about all aspects of their job from fighting fires to rescuing animals and people and teaching people all about fire safety. Karen Watts, Head teacher said: “the children thoroughly enjoyed the visit and asked lots of questions about what it was like to be a Firefighter. I am sure that many of them would now like to be firefighters when they are older.”
New benches for the riverside CoUNCILLor Luigi reale used some of his Ward Funding to select new benches to enhance the area by the Star rowing Club in Bedford. Cllr. reale, Labour Councillor for Castle Ward, said: “It was very nice to see that the beautiful rotherham cast iron and wooden benches have now been installed. these were part of a
bigger project to enhance the look of this area of the riverside, and I was happy to use some of my Ward funds to secure these benches.” “I’d like to improve all areas of the riverside in my Ward, and welcome suggestions from residents of other places they would perhaps like similar benches.”
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Bedford Hospitals Charity celebrates 30 years
oN Saturday January 27, the Bedford Hospitals Charity launched their 30th anniversary Year Celebrations. the invited guests who had, in one way or another, very generously supported the charity over the past 30 years included many individual supporters together with representatives of the organisations, businesses, trusts, and local groups that form the very supportive communities of Bedford and the neighbouring area. among those attending were LordLieutenant Helen Nellis, High Sheriff vinod tailor, Speaker of Bedford Borough Council Jade Uko, Paul Mead and colleagues of Michael r Peters, Harry Beard representing the Beard family and the Beard group, and many past and present volunteer members of the executive Committee of the Bedford Hospitals Charity
including, Mrs Jude Cottam MBe (for services to Bedford Hospital), and Mrs Molly taylor MBe and Mrs rene garrard MBe (both for their fundraising work for the Charity). Deborah Inskip DL, Chairman of the Bedford Hospitals Charity, welcomed those at the afternoon event at Bedford Modern School and introduced Mrs ann Hadfield who told how with her late husband James Hadfield, a consultant who became Medical Director at Bedford Hospital, they held social events that led to the formation of Medical Wives. that group soon realised that the nurses’ home needed renovation and Margaret oakley told of d the efforts involved in raising the necessary £100,000, and also the recruitment of Brian Woodrow as founder chairman of what became the Bedford Hospitals Charity.
Pictured L-R: Mrs Ann Hadfield, Deborah Inskip, Chairman of the Charity, Brian Woodrow, Chairman of Trustees. the wide scope of the many proj- Primrose Unit and the Primrose Car ects provided over the years was Service, and the new £1 million MrI described by Brian Woodrow DL, Scanner due to be delivered very soon. oBe, Chairman of the Charity’s the amounts raised and the sheer trustees, and he said how the £10 mil- range of equipment and facilities lion raised by the local communities provided are believed to make the over the past 30 years has funded such Bedford Hospitals Charity unique in major facilities as the Macmillan this country.
Candlemas flower festival at St Paul’s
St PaUL’S church, opened to a crowd of delighted visitors as Lord Lieutenant, Helen Nellis highlighted how these beautiful arrangements bring light into an often dull February. Candlemas celebrates the hope of spring and light after the darkness of winter. the Dean of St albans abbey, the very reverend Dr Jeffrey John, blessed the Festival. also in attendance
at the opening ceremony were the MP for Bedford & Kempston, Mohammad Yasin and the High Sheriff for Bedfordshire, vinod tailor. Many themes under the overall title have been chosen for the 60 lovely and imaginative arrangements in this spectacular setting, from Windows for Candlemas, the Light of the world, Bringing hope to rebuild lives,
tranquillity and Simplicity to Floreat Bedfordia (May Bedford Flourish). the flower arrangers come from groups and individuals across the county; flower guilds from numerous places of worship from St albans abbey and the Salvation army to Peterborough Cathedral; representatives of various womens’ and community groups, schools and floral businesses.
Fit a smoke alarm and test it weekly Don’t be distracted by your mobile phone or callers Turn off any cooking if you leave the kitchen Avoid cooking when tired, if you have consumed alcohol or are using drugs or on medication Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/bedsfire Follow us on Twitter: @bedsfire Website: www.bedsfire.com
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Risk Takers and History Makers
BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 13
hot! be with
Slimming World
oN Monday 5th February a new Heritage Lottery funded partnership project between the Bedford Chronicles, John Bunyan Museum and the Panacea Museum was launched. Working with schools and the wider community, risk takers and History Makers, will share the stories of four women of Bedford over a 300yr period; women who fought and struggled against society and the government of the day for faith, justice or their beliefs. these important women in the history of Bedford are little known in the community, and the project will raise awareness of this lost heritage and raise their profiles in the community.
each woman faced one or more of: Sexism, Discrimination, racism, Inequality, Misogyny the project will highlight the stories of these women as well as other Bedford women and show how their actions broke through the barriers and social prejudices of their time. How they fought against a preconceived normality to become trailblazers for the women who were to follow them. During times when women had no real voice or power, these women fought to make their voices heard. the project will culminate in a two week exhibition hosted at both the Basement @ Bunyan gallery and at the Panacea Museum.
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Tackling town’s rough sleepers
BeDForD’S number of rough sleepers has increased, from 59 in 2016 to 76 in 2017 according to recent government figures. this puts Bedford seventh in the table of local authorities with the highest numbers of rough sleepers, behind Westminster, Brighton & Hove, Camden, Manchester, Luton and Bristol.
Homeless Link, the national charity for organisations working within homelessness said: “this rise in rough sleeping is appalling, with a saddening growth in the number of people without a safe place to stay, and at risk of deteriorating mental and physical health.” Homeless Link believe that a strategic and co-ordinated response
is crucial for effective action. this is the exact approach that Bedford has taken, with the recent introduction of a new post, Homeless Inter-agency officer who will work with all the agencies and partners to encourage collaboration and consistency. the role has been funded for three years by the Harpur trust, which already supports a number of homelessness agencies through its grantmaking but recently challenged local charities to develop an innovative way
of tackling the growing problem in the town. Sam Price (pictured above), who has taken on the role said: “I am really excited about working together with all the great organisations and community groups that help the homeless in Bedford. “I believe that building effective partnerships and coordinating our approach to homelessness will bring about change in Bedford, and reduce the number of people sleeping rough.” Sam’s role will see her organising regular conferences around homelessness, and raising public awareness of the services available in the town. For more information see facebook.com/bedfordhomeless.
TIME FOR A KITCHEN MAKEOVER?
Calling all local businesses
MY name is Sarah Perry and I am the fundraiser for the Wixams Hatters. the Wixams Hatters are a small football club which was put together in 2016, by a group of local parents who wanted to make playing football affordable to all parents within the local communities. We have two under 7 teams and an under 9 team, made up of children from Wixams and the surrounding villages. In June of this year we are planning to hold a football tournament, we will be inviting many local teams to come along and enjoy a fun day of football. to help us to make the most of this event, we are reaching out to local businesses to offer sponsorship opportunities. We are suggesting a starting figure for sponsorship as £50 but any amount would be gratefully received. I do hope that this is of interest to any local businesses. for further information, please do not hesitate to contact me on 07940 913018 or email sarahperry47@yahoo.com ––––––––––––––
Bikers support
oaKLeY Motorcyle Club members got together on January 28th for a curry night. 83 people went to the Indiya restaurant on Bedford’s Broadway and in the process raised £680 for east anglian air ambulance. this annual dinner now in its seventh year has become one of the club’s ‘must go to’ events. this year the meal was substantially oversubscribed, limited by the size of the restaurant. the staff of Indiya have been extremely welcoming over the years and have really cracked the task of serving the masses in a short space of time. oakley Motorcycle Club meets at oakley Social Club every thursday evening, all are welcome to join the other 550 members! ––––––––––––––
New landing stage
a NeW landing stage has been opened up providing access for boat users along Bedford’s Mill Meadows. Bedford Borough Council has replaced the previously unsafe landing stage on the great ouse, allowing the town to once again have access to the river. the landing stage was reproduced using new timber to provide a safe structures for users. It is hoped that the new facility will benefit local boat users with the provision of mooring hooks for boats. ––––––––––––––
White Horse wins
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tHe White Horse has been awarded the title of Best Drinks Innovation, recognising the original and creative drinks on offer at the pub, at the Charles Wells awards 2017 Peter Wells, Commercial Director at Charles Wells, said: “Lucie and Stephen Fuller are already well known in Bedford as being great licensees.”
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BUDGET RECEIVES CROSS PARTY SUPPORT
I’m pleased to be able to report that our Council budget was approved in February with unanimous support from every Councillor, of all parties plus ndependents. Despite massive government funding cuts - with our main grant cut from over £30m in 2015 to under £6m in 2019 – it’s a budget which protects those in need. this includes an extra £5m of annual funding for care for the elderly and vulnerable, for example, plus £2.5m to complete the refurbishment of the Council’s residential care homes. It also includes investment in our children’s future with all temporary classrooms we inherited being replaced and new
OFFICER NUMBERS TO REACH 1,224
earlier this month, I met with the Police and Crime Panel to discuss raising the police share of council tax – the precept – by a pound a month for B and D homes without having to hold a referendum. this is not a decision I took lightly. I feel strongly that if the local council taxpayer, rather the Central government, is to have to meet the cost of improving policing the cash raised must pay for improvements which are those the public wants most. I am planning to recruit between 110 and 130 new officers per year for each of the next two years of my term as a result to boost Bedfordshire’s notoriously thin blue line. I am know for certain that I have the support of the public in this decision as in every one of the public meetings I have
REVISTING OLD WISDOM
a recent news headline announced that Members of Parliament and those who worked in Westminster were to have a new ‘Code of Conduct’. responding, particularly to the apparently disturbing culture of harassment and inappropriate behaviour, the Prime Minister rightly emphasised the need “to establish a new culture of respect at the centre of our public life: one in which everyone can feel confident that they are working in a safe and secure environment”. What caught my attention, however, was the emphasis in the press headlines on the word ‘new’. I found myself wondering, whether what was needed was not a something new, but something old. Was this the time to revisit old wisdom? the ten Commandments are certainly old wisdom going back to Moses and the people of
In Focus with
Dave by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford
capacity to avert the school places crisis seen elsewhere. the £59 m investment includes completion of the move to a primary/secondary system which local schools are leading so impressively. the budget includes the freezing of car park charges again. It maintains the Saturday two-hour free parking deal in the town centre, which we introduced in 2013 and which has coincided with four straight years of footfall growth.
Update from the
Police & Crime Commissioner by Kathryn Holloway
attended over almost two years in this role, from Shefford to central Luton, every single community has called for more police to strengthen Bedfordshire Police’s response to crime and support for victims. there were just over a thousand officers when I came took up the role as Police and Crime Commissioner and I intend that there will be 1,224 as a direct result of the additional funds I can raise through council tax. I have been given the ability by
View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
The Bishop of Bedford
Israel journeying through the wilderness. In the Book of exodus Moses receives them from god himself on Mount Sinai. Sadly the evidence is that many of us struggle to recall the ten Commandments. an american survey some years ago showed that people were more familiar with the ingredients of a Big Mac! So maybe the time has come to look again; to be surprised by how some of the Commandments are so relevant for today. For whilst ‘thou shalt not kill’ and ‘thou shalt not
BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 15
the main council tax will increase by a below-inflation 1.75% and the government’s Social Care Precept will add another 2% on top of that. this is lower than the increases proposed nearby such as in Central Beds, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Milton Keynes or Luton. I’m glad our rigorous financial management is recognised across the council, especially when we don’t have to look far to see a nearby Council literally facing financial collapse. and while we’ve had to take decisions we don’t want to in the face of the government cuts, elsewhere we hear of ever more drastic cuts being proposed every week, such as widespread library closures or threeweekly bin collections. We’ll keep fighting to protect services as far as possible, and put local communities first.
government to raise these extra funds through council tax for the next two years alone at this juncture. However, the Policing Minister, Nick Hurd, has confirmed to me that the historically unfair share for Bedfordshire Police of the national funding pot will be addressed at the time of the next Spending review, which will be in autumn 2020. He has repeated this in the House of Commons in a reply to South West Bedfordshire MP, andrew Selous. I expect the government to stand by its word. Having provided full evidence for the need for these officers – and still more – to government, I fully intend to recruit as many officers as I can afford over this next two year period. I have made it absolutely clear to the government that I need it to deliver on its promise to produce a budget to support them from that point onwards. steal’ have a timeless relevance, is it not time, for instance, to take on board again the commands not to lie, to commit adultery and to covet. all have their place not just in a parliamentary code but in a code for life. In particular that strange phrase of ‘not coveting’ surely ought to come back into its own. For ‘not to covet’ is to resist that yearning to possess what is not yours. at its most basic it is that destructive jealousy that fosters greed and envy. It is also that craving for what it is not yours that I suggest lies behind the abuse of power and position that we are seeing in so many sections of society with the growing accounts of sexual harassment and exploitation. Why do we need ‘new’ codes when the ‘old’ code still holds good. Is it not time to look again at the ten Commandments, including the first four with their emphasis on honouring god – a crucial reminder of how all of us are accountable to the almighty for who we are and how we act?
16 — BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018
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GARDENING by Milton Ernest Garden Centre
MARCH MADNESS
It’S March its getting warmer the days are longer and our gardens are waking to spring when plant madness starts. the early flowering shrubs and trees suddenly burst into amazing displays telling us winter has gone and summer is on the way. Prunus Kursar is an early flowering cherry which has coloured buds in February followed by masses of deep pink flowers on bare branches in March and april. It grows to about 5m a delightful garden tree when under planted with Cyclamen Coum, silver foliaged Pulmonaria and deep pink Hyacinth Woodstock. Conversely Prunus Kojo Mai is a small flowering cherry which is excellent if grown in a pot on the patio. It is covered in almond pink perfumed flowers throughout March. Forsythia is a real harbinger of spring with a blaze of bright yellow flowers on bare stems a must for any spring border. Forsythia golden Nugget and gold Curl are both more dwarf types with good autumn leaf colour, only growing to about 1m in height. Prune immediately after flowering. Magnolias also appear in all shapes and sizes from trees to types suitable for patio pots. Magnolia Iolanthe is a small tree with very large tulip shaped scented flowers of soft mauve pink. Magnolia Stellata has pearly white flowers while Magnolia Susan has pinky purple perfumed blooms. Both are neat and compact and very free flowering making them suitable to grow in a large container. always plant using JI ericaceous Compost as Magnolias prefer acidic soils although they will adapt in time to Bedfordshire clay. Pieris is another shrub that prefers acidic soil so again excellent for
growing in containers using lime free compost. It gives lots of interest throughout the year with shiny evergreen leaves, bright red pink or burgundy new leaf growth in March and creamy white lily of the valley bell shaped scented flowers in early summer. grow in a sheltered place to avoid frost scorching the vibrant new leaf growth. While discussing plants that like lime free soil and so make excellent specimens to grow in pots in areas where the soil is very alkaline, we must remember the early flowering rhododendrons and Camellias. rhododendron Praecox has rosy purple blooms, r. Cilpinense pale pink and r. Christmas Cheer pink and white. all are covered in flower in March only growing to about 60cms tall so brilliant for pots on the patio. Camellias are also evergreen flowering shrubs for growing in ericaceous soil in containers. Camelia Donation, pale pink, and C. Silver anniversary, creamy white with a golden centre, have semi double flowers while C. Debbie is bright pink with double blooms. It is advisable to cover these plants if frost is forecast to prevent the flowers getting scorched. ribes, the flowering currants, are hardy deciduous plants that are very easy to grow. ribes Pulborough Scarlet, r Sanguineum and r. King edward are all covered with deep pink or red pendulous scented flowers in March. the foliage is also scented and the plant can also make a very good informal hedge. Daphne odora aureomarginata is a hardy evergreen shrub that grows well in limey Bedfordshire soil in a sunny or partial shady place. It has wonderful small pink flowers with a very heady sweet jasmine like perfume and handsome brightly variegated yellow and green leaves. Chaenomeles, the Japanese Flowering Quince, is very hardy, deciduous and easy to grow. the mass of flowers cover the bare stems in March and april followed by the bright green foliage and quince fruits in autumn. Chaenomeles are excellent plants to train on wires against any sunny or shady wall or in a container through an obelisk. Chaenomeles Crimson and gold has vibrant red flowers, C. Nivalis is smothered in glistening white blooms and C. geisha girl has large peachy apricot double flowers. Clematis alpina and C. Macropetala have pale blue and lilac nodding harebell flowers and grow well with Chaenomeles and add to the flowering March Madness.
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New science laboratories unveiled at Wootton Upper
StaFF, parents and governors at Wootton Upper School in Bedford are celebrating the opening of new state-of-the-art science laboratories. a special event was held on Saturday (27 Jan) to mark the relaunch of six of the school’s original science laboratories and a prep room following a major refurbishment project. the laboratories opened in the mid-1970s and were in urgent need of renovation. academy trustee Jon Billington secured funding from Central Bedfordshire Council and Bedford Borough Council to enable the vital update to take place, the planning for which began in the Spring of 2015. as part of the revamp, modern pear-drop stations were installed instead of traditional science benches to improve practical work. Michael gleeson, executive Principal for Wootton academy trust, said: “I’m delighted to unveil our brand new science facilities which will vastly improve the learning experience for our pupils. “this project has been a long and painstaking process and I’m so grateful to the trustees, staff, parents, gray and Sons and Be1 for their unfaltering support and enthusiasm. Work was completed with minimal disruption to teaching thanks to the hard work, cooperation and patience of our science staff and I’m thrilled everybody can now benefit from the wonderful facilities. –––––––––––––
New sports hall at Castle Newnham
CLLr Henry vann has officially opened the new sports hall at Castle Newnham with Mohammed Yasin, MP for Bedford and Kempston in attendance. the new hall is one of a number of major building projects at the school and is providing an excellent facility for children from both of the school’s sites. two former pupils and members of the British Handball team, twin brothers Nathan and aston grant-Williams, flew in from their Handball academy in Denmark for the occasion. ruth Wilkes, Principal said: “We are very proud of our new sports hall, which is another fantastic addition to our schools sites. our pupils are very much enjoying using it and it was wonderful to welcome so many people along including current and former pupils to help us to celebrate the official opening.”
Bright future
a ‘Bright Future’s Month’ took place recently at Castle Newnham School. all pupils in Year 9 spent the day at the University of Bedfordshire and experienced a Sports Science Lecture, a tour of the campus and a question and answer session with student ambassadors. the University of Bedfordshire’s access and outreach team supports young people to raise aspirations within higher education. Year 9 pupils also visited Bedford 6th Form College and Wadham College, oxford with Year 8 girls visiting Newnham College, Cambridge.
BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 17
18 — BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018
Key elements of business success
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There’s huge variety in what businesses need to do to stay successful. Luckily, there’s a lot of information and business support out there to help. So what are the key elements of success that business owners and directors need to focus on? Jacqueline Day, Business Adviser from Velocity Growth Hub tells us about what advice businesses seek most from her.
email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Defining, or refining, your business model is critical. “When you have these two foundations in place, then, focus on the third area: which is, being very targeted in your marketing. Use your business model and the right marketing channel to communicate your business offer and benefits effectively. Businesses need to constantly test, make improvements in their products or services, and innovate where necessary, to meet your customers or clients expectations.” Jacqueline adds.
80% of business success is psychology – 20% is from having the right business processes
“ ”
Jacqueline will be delivering her next ‘MODELLING SUCCESS FOR YOUR BUSINESS’ Masterclass on 26-27 April 2018, 9.30am-5pm at The Holiday Inn, Milton Keynes East, Newport Pagnell MK16 0JA. This will include: ‘ADVANCED SUCCESS STRATEGIES’ You can register for this via www.velocitygrowthhub.com/ workshops
“Successful growth is obviously dependent on a combination of many things though having that real vision and belief is one of the fundamental areas where I see business owners often struggle” Jacqueline says. As a business adviser, coaching people and helping to reinvigorate their belief in their business and in their decision-making is a big part of the relationship Jacqueline has with her clients. “80% of business success is psychology, 20% is from having the right business processes. With the right commitment, passion and belief you will bring the rewards to your business as, the rest will follow.”
“The second most important thing is having the right business model.” This will include, for example, clearly setting out your target audiences, customer profiling, through to understanding how you will bring in your revenue streams.
“Running your own business is challenging however, by taking some time out to focus on the key elements of your success will deliver results.” Jacqueline stresses.
There is a lot of business information and support services out there. This is where Velocity Growth Hub – as the first stop shop for business support – can help. Our business advisers are on hand to provide one-to-one advice and can put you in touch with any specialist support you may need to get you on track for successful growth. The Growth Hub offer a wide range of workshops that run throughout the year and are free to qualifying businesses who want to grow. Want to know more – go to: www.velocitygrowthhub.com
Velocity Growth Hub is part-funded by European Regional Development Fund.
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BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 19
Cbeebies star Rory visits local school
CHILDreN’S tv star rory Crawford visited great Barford Primary academy last Monday for a special storytime event. over 90 children from the local school were enthralled as rory read to them whilst they enjoyed a snack of milk and cookies. rory is best known for presenting Cbeebies’ My Pet and Me, with fellow presenter Ferne Corrigan, and now presents the brand new show vet tales. rory also judged a drawing competition, where the children had created pictures of their own pets, or ones they dreamed of owning, before presenting the winners with a signed story book. Before he left, he delighted the children by posing for a picture with each of them. rory said ‘It was a wonderful evening and I had a great time visiting the children at great Barford Primary academy. there were so many wonderful drawings entered into the competition too, you could see how much time and effort they had put into creating them and I found it really difficult to choose the winning pictures. –––––––––––––
Launch of writing competition
aNNoUNCINg the launch of John Bunyan Museum’s annual competition for school-age children and young people, ‘a Day in the Life of…’ We are asking you to imagine you are one of the figures which represent John Bunyan in John Bunyan Museum. each one shows John Bunyan at different stages of his life – as a tinker, soldier, prisoner, and preacher. You are asked to produce a piece of writing showing what John Bunyan was feeling, thinking, doing, and experiencing at this stage of his life. record your ideas in a diary, letter, speech/sermon, cartoon strip, short play or even a poem. Your entry must be the size of an a4 sheet of paper. entries will be judged on the basis of how well you have got inside the ‘skin’ of the figure you have chosen and your understanding of what was happening in to him at this stage of history. • Four age groups: Years 1 and 2, Years 3 and 4, Years 5, 6 and 7, Years 8, 9 and 10 • Prizes in each age group entry forms available from: local schools, John Bunyan Museum shop, or download: www.bunyanmeeting. co.uk/museum there are four age groups: school years 1 and 2, years 3 and 4, years 5, 6 and 7 years 8, 9 and 10 with a first, second, and third prize. the closing date for the competition is 4th June 2018. For more details contact, Nicola Sherhod, on 01234 270303 or email: curator@bunyan meeting.co.uk
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20 — BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018
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out & about Police Cops in Space The Quarry Theatre 7.30pm Tuesday March 6
Following three sell out runs at Soho theatre with their first production, Police Cops, multi award-winning comedy trio The Pretend Men are back with their critically acclaimed edFringe 2017 total Sell out comedy blockbuster Police Cops In Space; an 80’s ‘low-fi sci-fi’ set in the most dangerous place on earth… Space. after his father is killed by an evil robot, Sammy Johnson, the last Police Cop in the universe, blasts off in an unmanned escape pod. Now on a distant planet, Sammy must team up with alien fighter pilot ranger and his trusty Cyborg C9 as they embark on an intergalactic adventure.
Carry On Jaywick
Life of Brian
Julius Caesar
The Quarry Theatre 7.30pm Tuesday March 13
The Quarry Theatre 7pm Thursday March 15
The Quarry Theatre 7pm Thursday March 22
a new verbatim play made up entirely of the words of real people, Carry on Jaywick is a story of hope amongst the hopeless, of laughter in the darkest times and a celebration of what it means to fight for where you come from. Jaywick is one of them places where you either make it, or break it. and a lot of people been breaking it round here. Jaywick is a seaside gem on the essex coast, currently ranked the most deprived town in the UK. this heartwarming and hilarious play travels through its village halls and dance classes, family rows and moments of inspiration, revealing a slice of english life which has largely been forgotten.
Monty Python delivers a scathing, anarchic satire of both religion and Hollywood’s depiction of all things biblical with their second film Life of Brian. Set in 33 a.D. Judea where the exasperated romans try to impose order, it is a time of chaos and change with no shortage of messiahs and followers willing to believe in them. at its centre is Brian Cohen, born in Bethlehem in the stable next door, who, by a series of absurd circumstances is caught up in the new religion and reluctantly mistaken for the promised messiah, providing ample opportunity for the entire Monty Python ensemble to shine in multiple roles.
FR EE
JOHN BUNYAN MUSEUM
Bedford
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EASTER EGG QUIZ 2UNS FROM 3AT ST -ARCH TO 3AT TH !PRIL (During normal museum opening times)
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Museum open* Tues to Sat, 11am to 4pm (last entry 3.45pm) *Closed Good Friday
............................................................................................................ John Bunyan Museum & Library and Bunyan Meeting Mill Street, Bedford, MK40 3EU
www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum
01234 270303
Ben Whishaw (the Danish girl, Skyfall, Hamlet) and Michelle Fairley (Fortitude, game of thrones) play Brutus and Cassius, David Calder (the Lost City of Z, the Hatton garden Job) plays Caesar and David Morrissey (the Missing, Hangmen, the Walking Dead) is Mark antony. Broadcast live from the Bridge theatre, London. Caesar returns in triumph to rome and the people pour out of their homes to celebrate. alarmed by the autocrat’s popularity, the educated élite conspire to bring him down. after his assassination, civil war erupts on the streets of the capital.
The Woman Question Uni’ of Bedfordshire Saturday 23 June 2018
the Mark rutherford Society is holding on one day symposium Literature and ‘the Woman Question’at the University of Bedfordshire in June. the main speakers will be elisabeth Jay, Professor emerita of english, oxford Brookes University. the role and position of women in society, and relations between women and men, were widely discussed by writers of the period. these included the Bedford-born novelist William Hale White (1831– 1913), better known by his literary pseudonym, ‘Mark rutherford’. In his final three novels – Miriam’s Schooling (1890), Catharine Furze (1893), and Clara Hopgood (1896) – White created and presented with great insight and sympathy a series of female characters who defy the social, sexual and political constraints placed upon them. Papers are invited on any writer or literary text dealing with the ‘Woman Question’. Please send a title and 200-word summary of a 20minute paper to Professor Bob owens (bob.owens@beds.ac.uk), no later than 1 May 2018. attendance is free of charge, but registration by 1 June 2018 is essential as numbers are limited. to register, please email bob.owens@beds.ac.uk
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BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 21
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– Saturday 3 March, 7:30pm BeDForD FoLK DaNCe CLUB St. PaUL’S CHUrCH, BeDForD TIDDLYWINKS JAZZ CONCERT COUNTRY AND FOLK FREE LUNCHTIME TODDLER PLAYGROUP
St James’ Church, Biddenham Hear award winning jazz pianist Nikki Iles and Bedford School Jazz trio. In aid of the Friends of St James. admission £10. Contact Chris Jones (01234 211759)
–––––––––––––––––––––––– BINGO Kempston Hammers Club (Cutler) Fun, friendly bingo with eyes Down at 8pm 28th March 01234 853262 always the last Wednesday of the month with the exception of april and December.. BeDForD & KeMPStoN LIoNS
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GRAND NATIONAL RACE NIGHT & SUPPER In aid of tHe MS tHeraPY CeNtre and other Lions Charities
FridAY 13th APril 2018 KEMPSToN iNdoor BoWlS ClUB, HillGroUNdS roAd, KEMPSToN First race starts at 8 o’clock (Doors open at 7:30pm) tICKetS £12.00 - includes Programme & race Card + 8 races grand tombola + Chicken and Chip Supper & Licensed bar tickets available from - Lion David Chapman on Bedford 825099 alternatively(email davechapman@supanet.com) or call any Lion member
MID BeDS art SoCIetY 10am- 4pm March 24
–––––––––––––––––––––––– WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOP
with Ian McManus Barton Village Hall, Hexton road, Barton-le-Clay, MK45 4TA Loose and lively is the mantra for this workshop which will focus on a lively urban scene using a reference provided by Ian. Pre-booking is essential and the visitor fee is £30. to reserve a place, please contact viv Callow on 01525 712735 or email vivianne.callow@hotmail.co.uk
Meeting at Kempston Hammers Sports & Social Club every Thursday 9.30 till 11.00am school term time only all children welcome from new born to preschool age Large range of toys,activities and a craft table. refreshments supplied for both children and carers. Non profit making playgroup If your require further information just come along or ring ruth on 01234 854657
–––––––––––––––––––––––– SPRING CONCERT of light music by the Ouse Valley Singers at 7pm on Sat. 21st April All Saints Church Kempston Church End MK43 8rH. For church funds. tickets £7.50 to include refreshments. Contact Janet: 02134 855158 Carol 01234 407775 and church members BIDDeNHaM garDeNerS aSSoCIatIoN Tuesday 20th March at 7.30 Biddenham Village Hall
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PROPAGATION FOR PLANTS Looking good in the flower beds By anne godfrey, garden Designer visitors very welcome admission £5 per meeting – includes raffle and refreshments www.biddenhamgardenersassociation.org.uk
BeDForDSHIre FaMILY HIStorY SoCIetY Friday 2nd March 2018 Interested in Family History? then come along to the next monthly talk on
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‘HOW FAR DID YOUR ANCESTORS TRAVEL BEFORE THE ADVENT OF THE RAILWAYS?’ By Celia Heritage 7.15 p.m. drama Hall, Mark rutherford School Wentworth drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk
Thursday evenings 8pm – 10pm Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB Its good fun for only £2 including refreshments No partner required. ron Law 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com
DANCE CLUB
BeDForD rSPB LoCaL groUP Meet at ArA club, Manton lane Bedford MK41 7PF. Thursday 15th March 7.30pm Patrick Barkham presents
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‘The Butterfly Isles’
Patrick is a Natural History writer for ‘the guardian & award-winning author of “the Butterfly Isles” (our talk this evening). Suitable for experts and Novices, rSPB membership not essential. entrance fee, group members £1 guest £2 annual group membership £5 reg. Charity No. 207076, more info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford
every Tuesday 1.10p.m. - 1.50p.m. Come and listen to talent musicians from the royal academy and the royal College in this beautiful church. the church cafe opens at midday.
CONCERT
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KIMBERLEY CREATIVE ARTS FESTIVAL
Friday 23rd March 2018, 7.00 p.m. Kimberley College, Green lane, Stewartby MK43 9lY the evening will involve performances of poetry, music and drama by students, staff,and members of the local community. tickets £1 may be purchased in advance from Mrs Hills, Science technician. telephone: 01234 767123 extension 215. tickets may also be purchased on the door at Kimberley College.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– MUSIC ON THURSDAYS –––––––––––––––––––––––– Clare College Choir ‘in Peace’ 1918-2018 7.45pm, Thursday 22 March 2018 Bunyan Meeting tickets £18, Students 18-24 £5, Under 18 £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk aLL SaINtS ParISH CHUrCH KeMPStoN
–––––––––––––––––––––––– FULL AFTERNOON TEA & A GUIDED TOUR
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
Saturday 10th March
Christ the King Parish Hall, Harrowden road, Bedford MK42 0SP 9am to Noon, entry 50p refreshments available For information call 01234 965497
TABLE TOP SALE
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CASH BINGO MEAT RAFFLE
every Wednesday. Cash Bingo from 130 till 3 every Sunday Meat raffle plus. appox 2pm All monies to Keech Children’s Hospice The Anchor, Goldington road, Bedford More details on Facebook under: Keech hospice fund raising at the anchor Bedford
–––––––––––––––––––––––– WORLD SHIP SOCIETY –––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD BRANCH 3T’S TODDLER GROUP
Kempston Constitution Club 196a Bedford road, Kempston 3rd WeDNeSDaY in the month 19:30 for 20:00, 21 March 2018 Branch AGM, followed by a presentation prepared by Bill Barber featuring shipping in New Zealand and a selection of the “£10 PoM” imigration liners telephone: 01234 352014
We are a (non-profit making) Toddler Group who meet at Centenary Hall, 104 Bedford road, Kempston on Tuesday from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm (term time only) 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. Contact: Debbie on 07975 –772-058 or Suzanne on 01234-857467.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– FAMILY EASTER –––––––––––––––––––––––– EGG HUNT KEMPSTON GARDENS on Wednesday 28th March, bring the whole family for a fun-filled time at Emmaus Village –––––––––––––––––––––––– ASSOCIATION Carlton’s free event. Follow the trail to find the –––––––––––––––––––––––– special eggs hidden around our site, and keep If you are interested gardening why not BLACK CRICKET MID BeDS. FLoWer CLUB an eye out for the extra special golden eggs too come along to our meetings. – then come and claim your prize! New members and visitors welcome. Thursday 8th March at 7.45 pm KIDS CLUB 1.30pm – 2.30pm A demonstration by Yvonne Tan called
in Flitwick Village Hall. visitors welcome £6.00 for more details contact Marion tucker on 01234 742396
‘HOLIDAY IN THE SUN’
–––––––––––––––––––––––– CHARITY QUIZ NIGHT IN aID oF KeeCH HoSPICe Friday 9th March 2018 doors open 7pm for 7:30 pm Flitton & Greenfield Village Hall teams of up to 6 at £10 per head includes ploughman supper. Contact rich 01525 754221 rcp.hedges@gmail.com
emmaus village Carlton, School Lane, Carlton, MK43 7LQ
KeMPStoN MUSICaL SoCIetY
–––––––––––––––––––––––– PASSIONTIDE CONCERT
Kempston Musical Society will be performing a selection of works for Passiontide on Saturday 17th March at Putnoe Heights Church,Bedford at 7.00pm. otD £6 includes refreshments. this will be a most enjoyable evening and we look forward to seeing you on the night. to find out more about this concert, all our forthcoming concerts or information about the choir please call 01234 781010 or email prestissimo@btinternet.com.
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
–––––––––––––––––––––––– 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
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22 — BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
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Macbeth – a comedy Sharnbrook Mill Theatre Monday 12th to Saturday 17th March at 7.30pm.
Putting on any Shakespeare play takes dedication, excellent acting skills and commitment… Well two out of three ain’t bad! Join the ladies from the Farndale avenue Housing estate townswomen’s guild Dramatic
Society as they attempt to perform one of the most famous plays of all time, with a startlingly original production of Macbeth. When we say original we mean the witches don’t have a clue what they are doing, Lady Macbeth can’t work out a bus timetable and the cast keep on getting injured. It’s a play that keeps going wrong and wrong and wrong. this farcical, hilarious play really is Macbeth, but just not as we know it!
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The Blockheads
SAXTIVITY
+The Reformers Bedford Esquires Saturday 24th March
Bedford esquires are bringing the Blockheads back to their main stage for the first time in two years. Formed in 1977 to promote Ian Dury’s album New Boots and Panties on the first Stiff records tour of the UK, the Blockheads are now fronted by one of Ian’s best friends Derek ‘the Draw’, the band’s vocalist and wordsmith. Chaz Jankel, Norman Watt-roy, John turnbull and Mick gallagher still remain from the original band and the current line-up is augmented by John roberts
240 runners for the first Great Denham Parkrun
there has been a lot of excitement about the first great Denham parkrun over the last six months and it has been eagerly anticipated by people in great Denham and indeed Bedford. In the local running community a lot of people have been training and talking about this event for ages. great Denham is a new village to the west of Bedford and is fortunate in having a very large country park built with the new housing development on one side and the meadows of the river great ouse on the other, making it a unique outlook for the parkrunner. on this first day, 17th February 2018, the weather was typically British with grey clouds at the start but finished with the sun blazing out despite the three degree temperature and hard frosty areas covering the park. the local area which probably is quite sleepy on a Saturday morning woke up to many runners streaming to the start line. People gathered around the play park before toby Chinn, the race director began his briefing. He talked about making history in small ways, and that all the runners present would be able to share their times and positions with future grandchildren etc etc! He described the course as a circular double lap route. emma Murphy and Sylvia Jones (a prominent member of the running community) were busy taking lots of official photos. Many
BEDFORD BULLETIN MARCH 2018 — 23
on drums and a rolling line up of saxophonists including gilad atzmon, terry edwards or Dave Lewis. Support on the night comes from the very excellent the reformers - these guys blew the crowd away supporting Dr Feelgood on the main stage in 2017. other well-known local runners were present from the local clubs. the race started with 240 runners just after 9am and surprisingly for a change it didn’t feel like a cattle grid at the start as runners showed a lot of consideration and gave each other space. the runners started to thin out at the first sharpleft corner. the first half of the course was on compacted sand which was hard and frosty. the second half of the course was on pavement tarmac. It was a good combination for the runner. at the finish line, there was a lot of support and cheering from the marshals and the local community which is quite refreshing. the first runner, Ian Halpin came in at 17:01 which is a fantastic time and excellent benchmark for this first event. the volunteers were friendly and did a fantastic job in organising the event. as the runners were leaving they were busily chatting, pleased and excited by the event and course and were making plans for future events. With all inaugural parkrun events, it is always difficult to envisage how the morning would unfold and whether there would be any teething problems but with this event I have no hesitation in stating that it was a complete success and a credit to the core team of volunteers. the event will now take place every Saturday morning at 9am. all welcome to come but please register at the parkrun website and print a copy of your unique bar code so that it can be scanned at the event to show your run times on the web.
SAXTIVITY is a Bedford-based saxophone quartet playing arrangements of music from George Gershwin, Burt Bacharach, Thelonious Monk, Dizzy Gillespie and Frank Griffith.
The ensemble will be playing on Saturday 3rd March, 1pm-2pm at Fancy Bakery, 35 Roff Avenue, Bedford MK41 7TH ADMISSION FREE! (… optional £5 donation)
Jess Bullen - Soprano Sax Frank Griffith - Alto Sax Andy Hamilton - Tenor Sax Keith Thompson - Baritone Sax
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