Bedfordshire Bulletin Online January 3, 2019

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BEDFORDSHIRE ONLINE EDITION

JANUARY 3, 2019

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‘HATTERS LIKELY TO FAIL WITHOUT NEW STADIUM’ – SAYS CHAIRMAN

TIME FOR THE COUNCIL TO DO THE RIGHT THING Luton town's chairman has warned that the football club would be unable to continue at its current level and would “likely fail” if its plans are rejected. the stark message came from David Wilkinson in his programme notes for the new Year's Day home game against Barnsley. the Hatters' applications for a 17,500 allseater stadium at Power Court in the town centre and a mixed use scheme at newlands Park next to M1 Junction 10 will be considered by Luton Council this month – more than two years after they were submitted.

Mr Wilkinson wrote: “We are told that January is also the month for LBC Planning Committee meetings to determine our appli-

cations at Power Court and newlands Park. “these are probably the most important decisions in the club’s 134-year history. We have what we need except for a stadium, which is fit for purpose.

“You continually demonstrate that we have the fan base, I believe we have the management both on and off the field. We are striving to be the best we can. We handle adversity, but now is our time. “the board and its allies are a diverse group with knowledge and experience in many fields, and we are unanimous in our opinion that this will be good for all.

“We have spent the last 10 years rescuing and rebuilding our club for the benefit and hopefully enjoyment of all. We are a major

part of the community and continue to explore more ways of using our strengths and contacts for the benefits of all.

“We are definitely not being overdramatic to say that should our plans be rejected the work done would not just be wasted, but the club would not only be unable to be sustained at current levels and would likely fail.

“We need your support. You need the support of your friends, neighbours and anyone you know. “this is not a piece of fake news. this is real and it’s happening now. the manager and players are doing it for us on the pitch, so let us play our part and do it for them off it. Who knows how far we can go together.”

C’mon Laura back the plans

Campaign group #saveourtown this week called on Luton Council's new supremo to make sure 2019 is a momentous year for the town.

The group said all eyes are on Laura Church, pictured, to deliver a new legacy for Luton and lead the town towards a bright new future.

The corporate director, place and infrastructure has been handed the authority’s top job on an interim basis, replacing former chief executive Trevor Holden.in her director role, ms Church leads the department dealing with the newlands park and power Court planning applications submitted by 2020 Developments, the property arm of Luton Town Football Club. #saveourtown members met her at the start of December, alongside representatives from Luton Town Supporters’ Trust and Loyal Luton fans’ groups. in what the group described as a productive meeting with ms Church, council leader Cllr Hazel

Simmons and deputy Cllr Sian Timoney, assurances were sought and given that Luton Borough Council has been dedicating the

proper time and resources in dealing with two of the most complex applications in the town's history.

Less than 24 hours after the talks at the Town Hall, it was revealed that the planning committee dates were set for January 16, for power Court, and January 30, for newlands park. #saveourtown congratulated the new council CEO on her appointment, but offered a stark reminder of how January 2019 will shape the town’s legacy.

Chairman nigel green said: “We believe 2019 can be a momentous year for Luton so all eyes are on her now to deliver the planning approval for newlands park and power Court, which will kickstart the transformation of our town.

“We call on ms Church to do everything in her power to ensure that the hopes and expectations of the residents she serves are acted upon. “as we did when we met, we

want to make absolutely crystal clear, once again, that there is no bigger show in town than these two planning applications.

“We know the council have to think about the bigger picture and so will often talk about the £1.5billion Luton investment Framework. it is important in business and growth terms and we welcome that investment, but these things are too pitched at a bureaucratic level that mean next to nothing to people on the street. We know this because we’ve pounded the pavements and talked to thousands of our fellow Lutonians.

“What they and our supporters – plus a UK planning record number of people in favour of newlands park and power Court – want and deserve is a town centre to be proud of.

“Developments such as the expanded airport and the forthcoming Luton DaRT line are important, but they will not be an adequate

compensation should the council fail to grant approval for newlands park and power Court. “not only is approval vital for the future of Luton, it is vital for maintaining the support of #saveourtown and Lutonians.

“We cannot impress this enough to ms Church and her officers, who will put forward their recommendations to the development control committee of elected representatives. Theirs will either be a vote for more years of stagnation, or regeneration.

“We now stand at a metaphorical fork in the road. One direction is failure that will not be tolerated or forgotten by the people of our town.

The other is success which will usher in a bright new future for Luton.

“One or the other will be ms Church’s legacy. all eyes are on her. We trust her council to make the right decision and approve newlands park and power Court.”

WADERS’ AND HATTERS’ HOLIDAY MATCH REPORTS START ON PAGE 32

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C&R are trying to kick plans for Luton developments into the long grass CapiTaL & REgiOnaL, the retail property company objecting to regeneration plans for Luton, have been accused of “trying to steal Christmas”.

C&R, who run The mall shopping centre, are opposing the newlands park scheme, which will fund the power Court project, as they say it will be harmful to their business. and shortly before the Christmas break, the company submitted a key paper against Luton 2020's development plans.

Hatters fans' groups Luton Town Supporters' Trust and Loyal Luton Supporters Club issued the following statement: “Yet again, at the last minute before deadline day, Capital & Regional submitted a key paper objecting to Luton 2020’s development plans – right before the Christmas break. Just like the lead character in the season’s hit children’s film, The grinch, it seems like C&R are determined to spoil things for the people of the town they claim to be part of.

“Well, our message to you, CRinch, owners of The mall, and to your directors and shareholders is

loud and clear – drop your opposition to the development plans that mean so much to Luton’s future, before it is too late to salvage your company’s reputation.

“Think again about the consequences of continuing to try and block the plans to build a new stadium and the much-needed gateway to the town at newlands park. Developments worth £250million to the local economy, bringing 10,000 new jobs. Those plans have overwhelming support locally, from across all our communities.

“C&R claim to be a community-based retailer, focussing on what communities they operate in want and need. They also claim to be a ‘responsible’ company.

“Yet when it comes to The mall in Luton, their biggest asset and ‘cash cow’, they have shown that neither of these principles actually applies in reality. Quite the opposite. “indeed, they have been shameless in spending vast amounts of their shareholders’ money on blatant attempts to obscure, delay and destroy what the town wants and needs. To, in their own words, kick the plans for power Court

and newlands park ‘into the long grass’.

“Lodging yet another complaint on the eve of the Christmas break is typical of their tactics. at virtually every crucial stage of the planning process C&R have lodged their key documents at the last possible moment. The company has hired external advisers and spent huge amounts on commissioning spurious and inaccurate planning reports – all with one aim in mind: to block LTFC’s plans to regenerate the town it so proudly represents.

“C&R’s attempts to position itself as the protector of Luton town centre are laughable. The mall closes its doors and effectively closes the entire centre of the town down every evening. They have invested little or nothing in The mall. We have a centre full of pound stores and eyesores, and if they have their way, the power Court site will remain derelict. “many of their arguments during the planning process have rapidly been shown to be totally unfounded. They have attempted to ‘persuade’ other small retail centres, with no connection to Luton, to support their objections.

“We, as supporters and Lutonians, have tracked the disgraceful behaviour of this so-called community-focussed business and are frankly appalled.

C&R are nothing but money-grabbers, at any cost to the community – and indeed, to its shareholders. and then there’s the cost to Luton, to the council, to every taxpayer and to 2020 caused by their tactics.

“There’s a price to pay for that, C&R, and it may be coming your way. Company reputations take a long time to build, and can be lost, destroying shareholder value, in moments.

“We suggest that you focus your energies – and your money – on trying to rebuild the C&R share price, currently plummeting, to prevent your shareholders from suffering further losses on their investment in your business... rather than meddling in Luton and trying to prevent much-needed progress for our wonderful town. “in the film, the grinch sees the error of his ways, stops being destructive and becomes part of the community. it’s not too late for the CRinch to do the same, and withdraw all objections to the regeneration of Luton.”

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13 ARRESTS AT MEADOW LANE SITE BeDforDsHIre police have arrested nine men and four women on suspicion of drugs offences at a travellers’ site near Cardington.

Working in partnership with Bedford Borough Council, police carried out an early morning operation on Thursday December 13, 2018, following reports of criminal activity.

around 180 officers, including support from the dog section, helicopter, firearms support units and officers on off-road bikes, executed a search warrant at dawn on plots at the Willow Drift travellers’ site, meadow

Lane, Cardington. Subsequently Luton magistrates issued a three-month closure order on five plots on the site Superintendent mark Upex, of the operation’s command team, said: “We have arrested 13 people and also recovered suspected stolen property.”

“We have a duty of care to the other residents, and to the wider local community, to ensure people can live safely, peacefully and lawfully.”

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

Jail for dealer who stored drugs in a washing machine a DRUg dealer who stored some of his drugs inside a washing machine has been sentenced to two years in prison. mirazul Haque, 22, of St Dominics Square, Luton, was jailed after pleading guilty to possession with intent to supply a Class a and Class B drug, and possession of criminal property.

Haque was stopped by police on november 21, 2018, in his vehicle after officers spotted him carrying out what they believed to be a drug deal. police searched the vehicle and recovered four bags of cocaine and some cash.

a further search was then carried out at Haque’s home address. a large amount of cannabis was found in plastic bin bags in the living room and the drum of a washing machine outside. in all officers recovered around £16,500 of cannabis, £1,700 of cocaine, £3,200 of cash, two mobile phones and drug dealing paraphernalia.

Detective Constable Richard marshall, who led the investigation, said: “This was a fantastic job by officers, who witnessed suspicious activity by Haque and developed it into a credible case for the courts.

“Drugs underpin much of the

most serious, organised and harmful crime we see in Bedfordshire, so it is right that we take action against the serious dealers operating on our streets. “all reports of drug dealing are fed into our intelligence systems and analysed, so please keep reporting suspicious activity to us. it could make all the difference to help us stop organised crime.” anyone with any information about drug dealing is urged to contact us on 101 or through our online reporting centre. alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Man jailed for breaching previous court order

a REgiSTERED sex offender has been jailed for 14 months after breaching the conditions of a Sexual Harm prevention Order (SHpO) imposed upon him for a previous conviction.

Joel Wilson, 34, of St michaels Road, Bedford, was found guilty at Luton Crown Court on Friday, December 21, 2018, and has had a restraining order placed upon him until further notice.

On 11 July, Wilson was arrested

after visiting the address of a woman he was forbidden to contact. following an altercation, he assaulted her.

Then on July 18, 2018, whilst on bail, Wilson was further arrested for drinking alcohol in a public place in Bedford town centre, in direct breach of the SHpO. He was sentenced to 14 months.

He received a further four months each, but to run concurrently, for the assault and for the public order offence of street drinking.

Sian scoops top award a STUDEnT social worker from Central Bedfordshire Council has received national recognition after winning a top prize at the prestigious Social Worker of the Year awards.

Sian miljkovic, who works at the local authority and also studies at the University of Bedfordshire, was named the winner of the Student Social Worker of the Year award at the

Continued on page 4

Marks sparks at Christmas

DesPIte national predictions of doom and gloom, there were some sparkling sales in key quarters of Bedford this Christmas, reports the Love Bedford team. unlike other market towns, Bedford still has a cornerstone Marks and spencer store which topped sales in the region for certain products. Manager Andy Lightfoot said: “We saw fantastic results in areas that were promoted through Love Bedford social media. for example with the Beauty Advent Calendar we were the fastest clearance store in our region for this product.

“Christmas food to order has seen growth on last year and considering we are up against M&s at the elstow Interchange, which has its own car park, this was a great result.

“Performance over all is broadly better than expected and encouraging going into 2019.”

And the Arcadia sweetshop, which has been in business for more than 100 years in the elegant edwardian Arcade, reported a bumper trade with people queuing outside the shop to pick up sweet treats.

Christina rowe Director of

the BedfordBID which promotes the town centre on behalf of 500 businesses under the Love Bedford brand said: “Despite an Grinch-like ItV national report, ironically filmed in front of a packed pedestrianised area of Midland road, our footfall numbers were better than others

at this critical time of year for retail businesses.

“We at Love Bedford say the town footfall is a result of all year round promotion of free parking, print and radio advertising and our new november/December Love Bedford noW videos highlighting what’s new, offers and events in the town centre. these videos meant that independents as well as big stores, had access to a far reaching campaign delivered by social media experts Yakety Yak. “this ‘all for one promotion’ keeps customers coming back to Bedford, it is then up to businesses to make sure they are offering products and services that people are prepared buy with their hard-earned money. It is noticeable that some businesses are more successful than others which is down to individual owners working hard all year round to secure customer loyalty. shoppers and diners are becoming increasingly demanding and we have to pull together to make the town an attractive environment for people to visit. otherwise they can just as easily stay at home and order online or indeed go elsewhere.”

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Grant Funding to help victims, reduce offending and build community safety

BEDFORDSHiRE’S police and Crime Commissioner, Kathryn Holloway, las month launched her grant Fund for 2019/20 and is inviting applications to help pay for projects which prevent offending, protect communities and support victims of crime to cope, recover and move forward with their lives.

The pCC’s grant Fund of approximately £1.6m is created by combining a grant from the ministry of Justice and funding from the Bedfordshire police Force budget which produces a flexible and accessible grant opportunity aimed at promoting innovative and collaborative working across Bedfordshire. “i’m particularly interested in projects from within communities themselves rather than all the ‘usual suspects’ to tackle gang, gun and

knife crime and in the principle of early intervention with very young children to help them become more resilient and go on to play a full part in society if faced with all the adverse early experiences including living in households where there is domestic abuse, drug and alcohol addiction and poverty where their development is neglected,” said Commissioner Holloway. “my office will help with advice if people have never applied for a grant like this before and the grant can be for any sum from £50 to £50,000 if the idea and evidence are good enough.

“Where established organisations are concerned, i will fund projects where i am not the only one making the investment since properly joined up working means more

Sian scoops top award

national event which took place in november in London.

The award recognises university students studying social work who are showing outstanding potential in their studies, with Sian also undertaking a new two-year undergraduate social work degree developed by Central ‘shadow’ Teaching partnership and the University of Bedfordshire.

She will graduate early in 2019.

Sian said: “i’m really shocked to have won this award. i have worked in social work for a long time but studying social care is a learning journey, not like anything else, and it’s had a massive impact on me. as a student, you are often presented with the negative side of social work and learning how not to do things, so to be part of such a large celebration was amazing!”

She added that the support of colleagues and educators has been, “imperative to achieving this award.”

Executive member for Families, Education and Children, Cllr Steve Dixon, said: “i would like to congratulate Sian on winning this award. This is a fitting tribute to the excellent work she does, both at Central Bedfordshire Council and on her degree

than one organisation putting its hands in its pockets and developing a service together,” said the pCC. Last year, the Commissioner funded an enhanced new service for all victims of crime in Bedfordshire, called Signpost. The free and confidential service is a one-stop-shop for all the information a victim of crime needs to know. Signpost consists of a call centre of specialist Victim Care Coordinators, available on freephone 0800 0282 887, running six days a week (monday to Friday 8am – 8pm, Saturday 9am – 5pm).

Signpost also has an online directory of all support services for those affected by different crimes (and a section telling them what will happen next if they report these crimes to the police) at signpostforbedfordshire.com.

Continued from page 1

programme with the University of Bedfordshire.”

The University of Bedfordshire’s Head of School for applied Social Studies, Dr Louise grant, said: “We are absolutely delighted that one of our students has been awarded this prestigious award. We are very proud of the Social Work education we provide, and Sian is an excellent ambassador for the social work profession. We wish her and her fellow students good luck in their careers and are sure they will thrive and continue to be role models for their profession and the University.”

Sian was presented with her award by care leaver and BBC news reporter, ashley John-Baptiste in front of an audience of over 450 social workers and representatives of the profession. The Social Worker of the Year awards were founded in 2006 by independent practitioner, Beverley Williams mBE, with the aim of improving the understanding and reputation of the profession.

This year the awards received a record-breaking number of nominations and 93 social workers and social work teams in both children’s and adult services were selected as finalists across 16 different categories.

Pictured on front page: Sian Mijkovic with Bev Maybury, Strategic Director, Department of Health & Wellbeing at award sponsor Bradford Council.

Signpost contacts victims of a crime within 24 hours where officers believe they may benefit from extra support and aims to give first class support and care to both victims and those also affected by crime, such as partners, children or parents. it also provides access to Restorative Justice, which brings those harmed by crime and those responsible for the harm together, often face to face in a safe environment, enabling those affected by a particular incident to express their views of what the crime meant to them and to find a more positive way forward. The new service provided help to more victims than were said to have been assisted by its predecessor over the whole of the last year, in just two months from its launch on 1 april 2018. “i’m absolutely delighted by the

success of the Signpost service which has quite literally transformed the services for victims in Bedfordshire. This coming year i intend to repeat this model - of an online directory of all services and a one-stop-shop of specialist advisors to work with offenders this time, to try to give genuine assistance to those emerging from prison to avoid setting them up for failure on release. This service will be called Direction and we aim to launch in the Spring,” said Commissioner Holloway.

The pCC has commissioned multiple organisations supporting victims of Domestic abuse and Child Sexual Exploitation and other crimes against women and children such as Female genital mutilation and Forced marriage. in 2018-19,

Commissioner Holloway also funded organisations such as the anne Frank Trust to work in schools across the county to combat prejudice and prevent Hate Crime through the story of anne Frank and established Bedfordshire’s first dedicated counselling service to help male victims of sexual and domestic abuse.

The Commissioning Fund is now open and details can be found in the Campaigns and initiatives section of the OpCC website, www.bedfordshire.pcc.police.uk under Funding Opportunities. applications close on Friday 11 January 2019 at 5pm. if you have any questions, please contact the OpCC on 01234 842064 or email: pCC-Commissioning@ Bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Art deal to make more dough in 2019

CHrIstMAs wasn’t the only thing being celebrated when volunteers and supporters gathered at Companions real Bread bakery on Mill street.

Major Graham and three other band members from Bedford’s salvation Army Corps roused the Christmas spirit with carols, before presenting a cheque for the splendid sum of £1,161, which had been collected for Companions at the Army’s two Carol Concerts a few weeks previously. the bakery offers work experience, training and other support to ex-offenders trying to resettle effectively into the community. ‘this feels like a ringing endorsement from the people of Bedford,’ said Maggie rich of Companions as she accepted the donation, “they must like what we’re trying to do here.”

Maggie went on to announce some exciting news. since moving into the old fire station in Mill street in January 2017, the bakers have known that they would have to move out for a period of at least three months when the council starts works to remodel and renovate the building.

A few weeks ago, simon Gillett, invited Companions

to move the bakery into his premises when the french bakery, Delices, ceases to operate from there at the end of this month.

Companions will rent the fully-equipped bakery and the café in front will be renamed the Gallery and offer the bakery’s sourdough bread etc as well as a new menu of food and coffee. simon said: “I have been in the hospitality industry in London for ten years managing national stores and when this opportunity arose I had no hesitation in involving myself in such an exciting new venture” the Art Centre has occupied the premises at 7, Howard street since 1996 and is delighted to welcome Companions and the Gallery to the site which will offer an exciting new destination. the move is planned for the middle of January. “It’s all happened very quickly,’ said Maggie, “and we’re not sure yet quite how things will go.

“But we’ll keep the interruption to our customers as short as possible – we know how much they love our sourdough.”

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Bedford rapist awaits sentencing a man has been found guilty of raping a woman in Bedford in February this year. anderson Cosma, 25, originally from Romania, but now of Kimble Drive, Bedford, was found guilty at Luton Crown Court on Friday, December 14, 2018, after a threeweek trial, for the rape of a woman in her 40s, and also for the stalking and sexual assault of another woman.

On Friday, February 2, 2018, at around 6.30pm, Cosma met his victim as she walked along The Embankment. after a short conversation, he carried her into some nearby bushes where he raped her, and then fled the scene when she said she would call the police.

Later that evening, the victim disclosed what had happened to a friend who reported the assault.

Cosma was captured on several CCTV cameras along The Embank-

ment area around the time of the incident. He was arrested on suspicion of rape on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, by officers who saw him in Bedford town centre.

On arrest, it was also discovered that Cosma had been systematically stalking another victim and had subjected her to a sexual assault.

Detective inspector Jackie Dadd, of our specialist Emerald unit, which investigates rape and serious sexual assault, said: “This is one of the worst crimes that can happen to an individual.

“The jury’s verdict now ensures this individual can no longer cause harm to others, and we have been able to provide some justice for the victims who can now begin to rebuild their lives.”

Cosma will be sentenced on 1 February 2019 at the Central Criminal Court.

Appeal for witnesses following sexual assault THE police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was sexually assaulted in Bedford on monday. December 17, 2018. at around 5.50pm, the woman was walking in the Church arcade/ Dane Street area in the town centre when a man approached her and asked for a cigarette. When she said she didn’t have one, he sexually assaulted her.

He is described as white, with dark hair and was clean shaven,

approximately 5’8’’.

He was wearing a black puffa jacket and black jogging bottoms or jeans.

Detective inspector Lorraine Coombes, investigating, said: “We are keen to speak to anyone who was near Church arcade or Dane Street and the surrounding areas at the time of the incident, or anyone who may know who is responsible, as this vital information could help our investigation.”

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

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Ampthill gets lit up by new Christmas lights bewithdelicious!

Slimming World w

Ampthill Methodist Church On Sunday, november 18, ampthill residents turned out to see this year’s Christmas lights switch-on. major investment in thousands of new icicle lights by the town’s businesses was generously added to by many residents along Dunstable Street also paying for icicle lights to extend the display and enhance their properties.

Following an afternoon spent enjoying Henry Harris’s funfair, buying from a good selection of stalls, and youngsters visiting Father Christmas in his grotto, the capacity crowd was ready to be entertained.

On a bitterly cold day guest singers Betty Bluebird and may Blossom warmed up everyone performing a hugely popular set of join-in-and-sing yuletide songs

before handing over to Dame Widow Twankey (the outstanding maurice Kachuk) and the cast of ampthill’s pantomime’ aladdin and his wonderful lamp’. Excitement built as Firs Lower School pupils gabrielle White (aged 5) and her younger sister Jodie – winners of a switch-on draw supported by Waitrose and partners – were introduced by Dame Widow Twankey and the enthusiastic countdown began. as the town clock struck 5pm gabrielle and Jodie pushed the plunger and hard-working electrician andy muskett’s skills stunningly lit up ampthill.

Report by Richard Holden – Fundraiser for the entirely volunteer group The Friends of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights.

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Airedale Nursing Home welcomes HM Lord-Lieutenant H m Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen nellis, was welcomed to airedale nursing Home on Wednesday, December 12, by the Directors, Dr Kamyar and mrs nichol, to unveil a plaque to mark the nursing Home’s 30th anniversary this year, and to meet with managers, staff and residents over afternoon tea, following a tour of part of the premises.

The Lord-Lieutenant was interested to hear that the family of the Directors had donated 300 trees to the Forest of marston Vale to mark this special anniversary especially as Hm The Queen launched The Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy in 2015 and is supporting a network of forest conservation initiatives across all 53 Commonwealth Countries. airedale had invited various guests who work closely with the

Home to join the celebration, and the Lord-Lieutenant was greeted with music from andrew Hubbard on violin, and songs from children who attend pilgrims pre-preparatory School, Bedford.

The Lord-Lieutenant was presented with a posy by the longest resident at the Home – grace gregory, and the oldest resident – muriel Waghorn.

Following the visit the LordLieutenant said “i was so pleased to join the residents and staff of airedale nursing Home to celebrate their 30th anniversary. “it was a very happy occasion with a warm atmosphere of friendship, kindness and good cheer.

Congratulations to all who work and volunteer so compassionately to create a home from home for those who live there.”

New operation targeting contraband at prison

Weekly Auctions Why not visit the Bedford Auction Centre to enjoy the excitement of a live auction.

Antique & Modern Furniture • Clocks • Books Ceramics & Glassware • Pictures & Prints • Bicycles Jewellery & Watches • Garage Tools & Equipment Household Electrical Items • Building Materials Office Furniture & Equipment • Retail Products & Stock Horticultural & Commercial Equipment • Vehicles Garden Furniture & Effects • Collectables

tHe police have launched a new operation targeting throw overs and other illegal activity at Bedford Prison. officers from the Bedford community team will be undertaking more patrols at key times around the prison perimeter to deter items such as drugs and phones being thrown over the fence. they will also work more closely with their prison officer colleagues and other agencies to crackdown on the smuggling of other items to prisoners. those who take in prohibited items could face a prison sentence of up to 10 years.

sergeant Ian Leeson, who will be leading the operation, said: “We know that the amount of contraband going into prisons increases in the lead up to Christmas, which is why we will be stepping up our patrols over the coming weeks.

“We are committed to working with our partners such as the prisons services to get a grip on the organised crime that goes on behind bars. “those on the outside doing the throw overs and smuggling have been warned: stop what you are doing, otherwise you could find yourselves spending even more

time with your mates inside.”

Helen Clayton-Hoar, the governor of Bedford Prison, said: “I very much welcome this increased police presence. “the supply of drugs and other illicit items into the prison causes considerable harm, leading to increased violence within the prison and to the wider public. “this is a great example of partnership between our organisations as we work together to keep people safe.”

Anyone with any information about this activity is asked to contact us through our online reporting centre or by calling 101.

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

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CQC inspection recognises improvements at Bedford Hospital THE CQC has released its final report and ratings today, from its recent inspection of Bedford Hospital’s five core services, use of resources and an assessment of the Trust’s leadership.

The report shows significant improvements in a number of areas and that overall the Trust’s core services remains rated as ‘Requires improvement’ but also highlights the Trust’s senior leadership (Board level) was rated a ‘good’ while the rating for Use of Resources was ‘Requires improvement’.

This report also highlights a number of improvements made since the 2015 inspection and with 80% of services rated ‘good’, means that Bedford Hospital is in the upper levels of ‘Requires improvement’ and maintains the determination to achieve an overall ‘good’ rating before the next inspection.

The outcome of the inspection positions Bedford Hospital with the majority of acute trusts, and we are pleased that the CQC highlighted significant improvements within leadership and good patient outcomes within our Children and Young people services.

Our maternity services improved but remained as ‘Requires improvement’ overall; however the department was recognised for ‘Outstanding’ practice for their pilot with the Royal College of

Obstetricians and gynaecologists (RCOg) to reduce the number of perineal tears in childbirth.

Unfortunately, the Trust received a drop in rating to ‘Requires improvement’ for our Urgent and Emergency Services that have been operating under extreme pressure since the winter of 2017/18. The CQC provided evidence that demonstrated some practices within urgent care were ineffective and at times not well led. Since the CQC visit, the Trust has developed a comprehensive service improvement plan. We have already opened the Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) that has taken some pressure off the department, improved the mental health assessment room and we are currently expanding the department to include 5 additional majors bays. investment in a new iT system and expanding the children’s unit within a&E are also planned. as with the full report, a robust Quality improvement plan will be implemented to address all concerns raised.

Stephen Conroy, Chief Executive of Bedford Hospital nHS Trust welcomed the report saying, “We will use this report to help us make further improvements wherever they are needed, including learning from those services within the Trust that have improved their ratings.”

FULL REPORT

Stephen added, “The inspectors highlighted the kind and caring nature of our staff who are treating patients with compassion in a hospital that is clean and well maintained. We are very proud of the support and dedication of our staff across the whole hospital; and this report confirms the excellent work that we do every day.

The CQC assessment of urgent care services was disappointing for us to hear, but we have already implemented planned improvements, such as opening the new UTC which is a great improvement for patients requiring our urgent care services. it is important going forward that we collectively focus on the actions required to improve services in a sustainable way for our patients.”

Liz Lees, Director of nursing and patient Services said: “We have made significant improvements in quality since the last CQC inspection in 2015. We continue to take action to address the remaining areas highlighted by the CQC to ensure learning and developing is seen as integral to delivering an excellent patient experience.”

Liz continued, “Together as a Trust, we will work with our patients and partners to further develop a Quality improvement plan so that we continue to deliver better services to our patients.

Hundreds attend Council’s ‘Find Your Future’ event

CEnTRaL Bedfordshire Council’s Find Your Future careers and employment fair proved a big success, with more than 800 people passing through the doors of The Rufus Centre.

This was the Council’s second Find Your Future annual event, organised in conjunction with headline sponsors Central Bedfordshire College. it saw leading businesses exhibiting from a range of different sectors, while visitors also had the chance to secure work experience, traineeships, apprenticeships and employment opportunities, while trying out the interactive demonstrations on the day, which included a media suite, hairdressing and virtual reality. around 440 pupils from 14 schools and academies attended a morning session, with all benefitting from at least one of the 25 information sessions, delivered by key speakers and local employers, such as millbrook, Center parcs, Lockheed martin, Liebherr gB Ltd, Kier group and mJ Hillson group. Visitors also had the chance to speak with representatives from more than 50 different exhibitors.

That was followed by residents, who attending in the afternoon, many of whom benefitted from a

national Careers Service information and advice session.

There were also a series of inspiring talks, one of which was delivered by Chief Executive Richard Carr, who spoke to a group of school pupils on his rise, from collecting bins, to the top job at Central Bedfordshire Council.

Councillor Steven Dixon, Executive member for Families, Education and Children, said: “This is such a valuable event for young people in Central Bedfordshire, because it puts them in the same room with employers and training providers, so they can start to discuss, explore and plan ahead for what they want to do in life.

“it was a pleasure to attend and see so much vibrancy and enthusiasm, not just from school pupils and jobseekers, but also the businesses, organisations, training providers and staff who helped to make the day so engaging, particularly the interactive zone, which was thriving with activity.” nigel Young, Executive member for Regeneration, said: “i would like to thank the busi-

PLEASURE TO ATTEND

nesses and organisations that took place in Find Your Future. We work very hard with local employers to understand their requirements in terms of skills to meet the needs of their workforce, events such as this are important in not only building those relationships, but creating a relaxed environment where employers and prospective employees can learn from each other.”

Keir Construction’s Katie nightingale said she: “interacted with lots of really engaged children who are thinking about their careers. it’s been a great event for Kier.”

Students from Sandy Upper School, shared their experience of the Find Your Futures careers event, saying: “We did the Woburn Safari park talk and found it very inspiring. it gave us an insight into the many types of jobs at the Safari park; it’s not just working with animals.”

One local resident, named Helen, said: “it was great to speak to companies about job opportunities for disabled young people. We felt we struck gold when we found the Department for Work and pensions stand and learnt all about Disability Confident. We came away feeling much happier about our daughter’s future.”

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100% Success for College’s Prince’s Trust team TESTing trials of fitness, daring and interview skills were all passed by six candidates on the latest Bedford College prince’s Trust Team 2 group.

College Team Leaders mark Williams and matt Tyldesley joined forces with Beds police secondee Dan Cooper to put the squad through their paces.

The young people from Bedfordshire and beyond, some of whom have never stayed away from home, were sent to the peak District where they did caving, abseiling and rock climbing. The tucker trials involved them all preparing and serving real meals whilst on the week-long trip. next up was a fund-raising and community project for the King’s arms night Shelter in Clarendon Street where they decorated the property and the garden. This included persuading a generous local company to give them a new kitchen cooker.

When it came to work placements they were supported by Barclaycard, northants who hosted them on coaching sessions on CV writing, interviews and the basics of setting up a business. in the final weeks of the challenge they supported the Bedford Homeless partnership Soup Fest in Bedford, persuading the Harpur Centre to give them an empty shop to use for promoting the activity.

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at a presentation night at the Trinity Theatre in Bromham Road, part of The Bedford College group estate, Warrant Officer michelle Smith handed over their certificates.

She had welcomed the group to an exclusive search and rescue exercise at the Joint Forces Command Chicksands in Central Beds. She the super six: “You have achieved so much in 12 weeks, take that experience and use it in your next move in life and remember how far you have come.” ian pryce CBE CEO and principal of The Bedford College group said: “Staff at Tresham College have run prince’s Trust Team courses successfully for years helping hundreds of young people to get on the right path to further education and employment. To see that being replicated here in Bedford with our first and now second Team demonstrates how by being bigger, we as a group are getting better at sharing best practice.” mark Williams thanked Barclaycard, Brewers Decorator Centre, Travis perkins, Signs Express, Cottage Bakery and all the families and friends who helped the team members. neXt: team 3 will be starting on Monday 28th January 2019 at the Bedford College Learning Centre, 88 High street. Contact Mark on (01234) 291361 mwilliams@bedford.ac.uk

Two parent governors join Children’s Services committee paREnT governor Representatives to join Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Two new parent governor representatives have been appointed to the Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

The committee scrutinises performance, considers children’s services policy and offers comments that inform the Council's Executive in making decisions.

Vicky Hopkinson (The Chiltern area Special School) and Emma van nieuwenburgh (Dunstable icknield Lower School) will take up

their post in January 2019. They will serve in office up to april 2019, or until they resign or cease to be eligible to be parent governor representatives, if that is sooner.

This move comes after Central Bedfordshire Council sent letters, in november 2018, to all parent governors of schools maintained by the local authority, seeking the nomination, by December 13, for two parent governor representative posts. as these were the only nominations put forward for the two posts, there is no need for a formal election.

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

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JANUARY 3, 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

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Your museum needs you! aT 10.30am on Saturday 19th January, the John Bunyan museum & Library and Bunyan meeting are holding a recruitment morning for anyone interested in volunteering at the museum, Basement gallery, or catering areas of the church.

This fantastic gem of a museum, in the heart of Bedford’s Cultural Quarter, is thriving thanks to its team of dedicated volunteers of all ages. 2019 looks set to be another busy year, with lots of events and activities planned, and we really need people to help support the museum in a number of ways.

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

Bunyan meeting also needs volunteers for the Foyer Coffee Shop, Wednesday Lunches restaurant and Basement at Bunyan gallery.

Curator, nicola Sherhod said: “The volunteers do a brilliant job. The museum has grown so much in the last

Support for rough sleepers over winter

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WiTH temperatures falling, Bedford Borough Council has expanded its services which help and support those sleeping rough this winter.

The ‘Severe Weather Emergency protocol’ which has operated for a number of years is in place again this winter, with a shelter, run by The Salvation army, opening when the temperatures are forecast below freezing for three or more consecutive nights. This year the shelter will be run at their outreach centre on Kennedy Road, off Elstow Road Bedford.

This offers those sleeping rough a warm and safe place to sleep, along with an evening meal and breakfast the next morning. all agencies and organisations that work with rough sleepers receive an alert when the shelter is open, and the Council website will

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few years, and this has been possible thanks to the enthusiasm and support of our volunteers. They have helped develop and run the shop, family trails, school visits, and children’s craft activities, as well as helping to look after our collections. it’s fascinating and rewarding work, a great way to meet people and develop transferable skills, and to support a great part of Bedford’s heritage!” please come to the Foyer Coffee Shop in Bunyan meeting church at 10.30am. meet and chat with some of the stewards, have a tour around the museum, and find out what our volunteers do and how you might get involved.

John Bunyan museum is open Saturdays only in January and February, and will reopen fully on Tuesday 12th February 2019. 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 www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum Follow us on Facebook: JohnBunyanmuseum Twitter: @JBunyanmuseum

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also inform people when the shelter is open at www.bedford.gov.uk/ wintershelter Working in partnership with SmaRT, who run the prebend Day Centre, the Council will also be providing ten extra overnight beds which will be available all winterfrom 1st november to 31st march.

These beds are by referral only, managed by street outreach teams.

This new extra provision is being funded following a bid by the Council to the government’s Rough Sleeper initiative fund announced earlier in 2018.

This funding is also providing additional outreach workers who have already supported ten people off the streets and into long-term accommodation. Six people have also moved into temporary accom-

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modation provided by our partners ‘The Kings arms project’, and are being supported to find employment and long-term accommodation. if you are aware of someone sleeping rough we urge you to report their location and any details to Bedford’s Rough Sleeper Street Outreach partnership through the national rough sleeping report line at www.streetlink.org.uk Cllr anthony Forth, portfolio Holder for adults Services and Operational Housing said: “We work with our partners to ensure that overnight shelter and food is provided to those sleeping rough in the coldest weather this winter. “no one should have to sleep rough, and we are working hard with our partners throughout the year to help people move on from homelessness.”

Road Policing officers exercise new vehicle seizure powers

OFFiCERS from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road policing Unit (BCH RpU) now have the power to seize vehicles that have been untaxed for longer than eight weeks.

To help address the problem of untaxed vehicles, the DVLa has commenced a programme devolving its powers to police forces under the Vehicle Excise Duty Regulations 1997.

Sergeant pete Scholes, from the BCH RpU, said: “The devolvement of these powers is great news for us as officers because it gives us another tool to deny criminals the use of the three counties’ road network, ensuring untaxed vehicles are removed from the roads and achieving further casualty reduction. “in practice this means that when certain criteria are met, BCH RpU officers can now seize untaxed vehicles.

“These vehicles will then be held for period of time which will allow their owners to tax and/or register them. However, if they do not

comply with the DVLa requirements then, dependant on value, the vehicles will either be scrapped or auctioned.”

BCH RpU officers have been exercising their new powers since monday, December 3 and a number of vehicles have already been seized.

Tim Burton, Head of Enforcement at the DVLa, said: “We operate a range of measures to make vehicle tax easy to pay and hard to avoid, including online vehicle taxing and Direct Debit. We also continue to send reminder letters to vehicle keepers, which is why it is so important they notify the DVLa of a change of address or keeper. “it is right that action is taken against those who don’t tax their vehicles and then drive them, otherwise it wouldn’t be fair to the majority of motorists who do the right thing. We are delighted to work with BCH RpU officers to make sure these untaxed vehicles are not driven on the road.”

Film to promote Trust’s work a LOCaL charity that provides free emotional and practical support to all persons affected by a road death has launched a hard-hitting and emotional film to highlight its work.

The Road Victims Trust works in partnership with the police Forces across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire to provide a Counselling service to people whose lives have been devastated by a road death.

The film features Kate goldsmith, Tanya Huckle and Henry Wellbelove – all ambassadors with

the Trust – who speak about the tragic circumstances of the loss of their loved ones.

Speaking about the launch, Chief Executive of the Trust, mark Turner said: “This is an incredibly moving and powerful production involving remarkable people. The effects of a road death are absolutely devastating yet all three people re-living their experiences are doing so knowing it will enable the Trust to support other people in similar circumstances.”

To view the film follow link https //youtu.be/Wl0a1gOoz6U

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

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Sandye Place recognised as an Asset of Community Value THE value to Sandy of Sandye place has been recognised following a successful application by the Sandy Historical Research group to have the building and land listed as an asset of Community Value.

With the support of Sandy Town Council, the Historical Research group recently submitted a case to show how important the facilities at Sandye place are and could continue to be to our community. Central Bedfordshire Council has now confirmed to the Town Council and the Sandy Historical Research group that the case provided by the application met the required definition of an asset of Community Value as defined by the Localism act 2011, and have accepted the nomination for Sandye place, park Road, Sandy to be listed on the Council’s register of assets of Community Value. an asset of Community Value is defined as a building or other land for which the main use has recently or presently been to further the social wellbeing or social interests of the local community, and could do so in the future whether in the

same way or different ways.

Once an asset is listed, nothing further will happen unless the owner of that asset decides to dispose of it. if this becomes the case the owner is required to notify the Council, and the Council is then required to notify the applicants and community.

Richard Barlow, Secretary of the Sandy Historical Research group, stated “Sandye place is a historic site right in the heart of our town, and the whole community has an interest in preserving the opportunities for sport, recreation, and public events which it provides. gaining asset of Community Value status for Sandye place means that any proposal to sell the site will trigger an opportunity for the Sandy community to discuss and debate the matter.”

The successful application was discussed at a meeting of Sandy Town Council’s Community Services and Environment Committee on 19th november 2018, members expressed their pleasure that the application had been approved, and that the value of Sandye place was recognised.

J

Borough Council reject parking bay application Seriously is your driveway BEDFORD Council has refused to back an application for a parking bay outside al’s plaice Fish and Chips in Denmark Street, leading to loss of business for the shop. alex mcKeegan, owner of al’s plaice, requested installation of a parking bay outside the shop to help reduce inconvenience to residents living in the area, and allow customers to visit his shop at peak times. alex said: “There have been complaints of customers taking up parking space on the street. a parking bay with a restricted waiting time would limit this. The majority of shops around Castle Road benefit from it. Users are only able to park for a limited time, creating a flow of

available spaces for those wishing to use the local facilities. Unfortunately due to my business being located on a side street, this is not something my neighbours or my customers are able to benefit from.”

He also described the effect the parking problem has had on his business: “i am receiving complaints from customers telling me that they have tried to visit but have been unable to park so have gone elsewhere. if this continues i may end up unable to continue to run my business”.

The request has been given full support from Councillor John mingay, however the application has been rejected by the Council without further consultation.

BMS student selected for National Youth Orchestra tALenteD musician tarek eldin in Year 13 at Bedford Modern school (BMs) has been selected to join the cello section of the highly-acclaimed national Youth orchestra of Great Britain (nYo) following auditions in september and october.

More than 700 young musicians applied for a coveted place in the orchestra, all playing at post-Grade 8 standard. the panel were impressed with tarek’s playing and ensemble skills and felt that he had the ability to make a significant contribution to the orchestra which comprises 164 of the best young players from the uK aged 14-19. tarek secured one of only 18 places in the cello section which is an extraordinary accomplishment. tarek will now take part in residential rehearsal courses followed by concerts playing under some of the world’s finest conductors in some of the most prestigious venues in the uK. the orchestral training and preparation offered by nYo is second to none.

All nYo musicians also take a leadership role within the nYo Inspire programme at the heart of which is the power of peer inspiration and learning. they share their musical skills with other teenage musicians and help them to develop orchestral playing. tarek was inspired to audition after seeing nYo perform Bernstein’s symphonic Dances from West side story earlier in the year. As well as being a

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member of the BMs orchestra, choirs and ensembles tarek has also played with the Chineke!

Junior orchestra, a youth orchestra formed of black and minority ethnic (BaMe) musicians, Aldeburgh Young Musicians and Britten sinfonia Academy.

Director of Music at BMs, John Mower, said: “this will be a life-changing musical experience for tarek requiring a great deal of commitment and a lot of his time, but we are sure it as a challenge he will relish. We are delighted for him and very proud of all he has achieved.”

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JANUARY 3, 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

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Sue Ryder recruiting nursing staff SUE Ryder Hospice is searching for nursing assistants to help people ‘live each day to the fullest’ in 2019 “it is a privilege to look after people at the end of their lives. i think dying is as important as giving birth.”

Those are the words of Carol pullen, an experienced nurse who heads up the palliative Care Hub at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice.

The hub’s community nurses and nursing assistants offer vital care and emotional support for Bedfordshire people at the end of their lives, and their families. This includes 24/7 phone support and caring for people in their own homes.

The hub needs to recruit new nursing assistants so it can carry on providing its important service in 2019 and beyond. “it is a privilege to look after someone at the end of their life and we focus on giving people the best quality of life possible. Our nursing assistants play an important part in this,” says Carol.

“We are searching for people who are kind and compassionate and can be there when it matters for families. They don’t necessarily need to have a healthcare background; the most important thing is that they are reliable and adaptable. We are a friendly and supportive team and offer plenty of training.”

meryl Litchfield’s friend Robert ‘Bob’ Loadsman was cared for by the hub’s nursing assistants and nurses. Bob passed away at home earlier this year. “it was Bob’s wish to be at home and thanks to Sue Ryder we were able to fulfil that,” says meryl. “They cared for both of us so well and i couldn’t have coped without them. They were so well trained and totally dedicated to helping. 24/7 support meant exactly that; i could ring them in the middle of the night if i needed it. From advice to hugs, they were there in every way possible.” nursing assistant Wilma Jassal, who has worked at the hub for six years, says she has “the best job in the world.” “people often think that hospices are about doom and gloom, but it isn’t like that – it’s about living each day.

Every day is important and that’s what we do; we try to make sure patients live every day to the fullest,” she says. “if you want a job that is fulfilling and you want to make a difference to somebody’s life, there’s no better place to work.”

To apply to be a Sue Ryder nursing assistant, please visit: http://bit.ly/2OZajOd For more information or an informal chat about the role, please contact Carol pullen, palliative Care Hub manager, on 01767 642410 or email carol.pullen@suerydercare.org

East Beds Charity’s Cricket Shield annual presentation

TEn local organisations and charities were represented at the annual presentation of cheques held at Sandy Village Hall on Wednesday, December 5, 2018.

Chairman John gurney welcomed all of the charities and organisations and said that the money had been raised from collections at evening cricket matches together with an annual golf Tournament. First of all he welcomed ian Bigley, president of the East Beds Bowls League and Chris Hunt Secretary of the East Beds Bowls League. marion Reeve then presented the Ted Smith Shield to the East Beds Bowls League who

won the annual Bowls match back in august.

John gurney introduced our patron Charles Whitbread who then presented the cheques of £500 each to the following organisations: gateway Club, Biggleswade; gateway Club, St neots; ivel Stroke Club; Friends of abbotsbury; Hearts in Beds Cardiac Support group; macmillan Cancer Relief; Sue Ryder Homes; Cheshire Home; Biggleswade Talking newspaper and ampthill Jigsaw Club.

Those present enjoyed a seasonal buffet prepared by the ladies—John gurney thanked the ladies for supplying the buffet.

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

Bedford’s MP shortlisted for national charity award mOHammaD Yasin mp has been shortlisted for a national charity award by blood cancer charity anthony nolan. The mp for Bedford has been nominated in the category of political Supporter of the Year for his support for the charity over the last year and was recognised at the anthony nolan Supporter awards (anSas) on Thursday evening.

The anSas are held annually to celebrate, recognise and thank the outstanding supporters who keep the pioneering blood cancer charity moving forward. mr Yasin will be joined by campaigners, fundraisers, volunteers, lifesaving stem cell donors and celebrities at the ceremony at the Tower of London on Thursday 22 november.

Over the last year mr Yasin has supported anthony nolan in a number of ways, from promoting their education programme, The Hero project, in his constituency to leading a debate on black, asian and minority ethnic blood, stem cell and organ donation. His tireless work has helped put the issue of donation from people with a range of backgrounds – particularly the need for better education in schools – on the political agenda. mr Yasin said: “it is a real honour to be shortlisted for this award and a privilege to be able to use my position as an mp to raise awareness of stem cell donation among people from ethnic minority backgrounds because no person should be faced with the prospect of being told that they have no match on the register. “ i was inspired by last year’s fundraiser of the year award winner, Bedford’s poonam Shah who turned the tragic loss of her husband to blood cancer into a force of hope and inspiration for others. after hearing her story, i was determined to take action to deliver the message

that we urgently need more people from Black, asian and minority ethnic (BamE) backgrounds to sign up to the register. none of us know when we might need such help.

“Since then, schools and other people in Bedford have been brilliant, organising blood stem cell drives and raising awareness around blood cancer and what it means to join the stem cell register especially DKmS Beds who organised a fantastic appeal to help Kaiya, the five year old girl fighting a rare and aggressive form of leukaemia, who has since found her matching blood stem cell donor. “i can’t thank everyone enough for the support they have given to this vital cause.”

Henny Braund, Chief Executive of anthony nolan, says: “Congratulations to mohammad Yasin mp on being shortlisted in the 2018 anthony nolan Supporter awards. Every day at least five people begin their search for a matching unrelated stem cell donor to treat their blood cancer or blood disorder. We’re incredibly lucky to have so many people supporting anthony nolan’s vital work to find a match for everyone in need of a lifesaving transplant.

“We want to say a massive thank you, and congratulations, to mr Yasin for his support this year and we are looking forward to celebrating with him at the Tower of London.’ anthony nolan uses its register to match potential stem cell donors to blood cancer patients in desperate need of a stem cell transplant. it also carries out vital research to make stem cell transplants more successful and supports patients through their transplant journey.

For more information about the anthony nolan Supporter awards, go to www.anthonynolan.org/awards

More young people to be helped by Youthscape THE Youthscape project supports and helps disaffected young people from all backgrounds and faiths in Luton. it is now extending its horizons, thanks to the Connolly Foundation, with a new grant enabling Youthscape to extend its work beyond Luton, across Central Bedfordshire.

One of the key projects is ‘Compass’, helping young people who are struggling to engage at school because of their behaviour or other pressures.

Over the course of a term, they have the chance to visit Youthscape’s centre, Bute mills, each week for an intensive programme that helps them deal with the fears, anxieties and feelings.

The aim is to help re-engage them with school and education. a second project tackles social isolation in young people. Despite the growing use of social media, young people are actually more isolated than ever before.

Openhouse brings small groups together to learn to cook with the help of a professional chef. This builds both self-confidence and new connections. Then they focus their new-found skills on a social action initiative to serve dinner for a vulnerable group from the community. Chris Curtis, chief executive of Youthscape, said: “The Connolly Foundation are funding our ongoing work with disadvantaged young people.

“The grant enables the charity to extend their work beyond Luton

across Central Bedfordshire.

“The support from The Connolly Foundation is also helping found training sessions for teachers and youth workers across Bedfordshire. more than 200 are expected to attend programmes in the first year alone - training them in responding the young people’s mental health issues, anxiety and even the growing problem of sexting.”

Youthscape was established in 1993 and Chris Curtis, the Chief Executive, was the founding member of staff. The organisation now has 27 paid staff and more than 80 volunteers. and in 2016 a former flour mill, in the centre of the town, was converted into an amazing modern space for young people.

–––––––––––––––

It worked for us!

JUST a brief note to say a huge thanks for agreeing to advertise our charity evening in aid of The Childrens Unit at Keech Hospice in September and October You may be interested to hear that it was a brilliant success it was a total sell out and we raised an amazing grand total of £2502 all of which will be donated specifically to the Children’s Unit.

Thank you so much for your support Phil Eccles

(l-r) Nick Desai (Kaiya Patel’s uncle) Priya Desai (Kaiya Patel’s aunt) Ian Krieger (Chair of Anthony Nolan).

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Arkwright Scholarship success for BMS Students

BmS Year 12 students maddie Kent, Kyle Van Der Spuy and Sam Szeto were awarded a coveted arkwright Scholarship at a ceremony held at the institution of Engineering and Technology in October. The arkwright Engineering Scholarships programme is the most prestigious scheme of its type in the UK. 393 students including a record-equalling 113 girls - were handpicked from 1,600 hopefuls who applied for the scholarship in 2018.

The scholars completed a rigorous selection process, assessing their academic, practical and leadership skills in engineering disciplines. This year’s successful cohort join current Year 13 students archie Denne and Tristan Rayner who received scholarships in 2017.

The scholarships consist of an annual financial award to each scholar and to their school, together with enrichment activities such as mentoring and industry visits that enhance a scholar’s experience of engineering in a realworld context.

Sponsoring this year’s successful BmS recipients are the Babcock international group, Ward & Burke Construction Ltd and The Roger Raymond Charitable Trust respectively.

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another BmS success in the awards is former student Hannah phillips, who received an arkwright Scholarship in 2016, and has now been awarded one of only three arkwright Undergraduate Engineering Scholarships.

This is valued at £12,000 over the duration of her University course studying mechanical Engineering at the University of Southampton. Funding is being provided by the Eranda Rothschild Foundation. andrew Rock, Teacher of Design Engineering and arkwright Scholarship Coordinator at Bedford modern School said: “i am very pleased, once again, to be able to highlight the success of our students in achieving these scholarships, which encourage and support our best students to pursue a career in engineering. “i would also particularly like to congratulate Hannah who richly deserves this acknowledgement of her continued achievements. “all of our arkwright Scholars from 2016-2018 have gone on to study Engineering courses at University.

Former Head Boy Thomas allen is currently studying at imperial, Hannah phillips at Southampton, milen patel at nottingham, Thomas mullan at Durham and alexander Brand at Queens Belfast.”

Cooking up a dream meal for Bedford Rotary competition

CaSTLE newnham pupils had a lot on their plates recently when they took part in the Rotary Club’s Young Chef competition.

Bedford Rotary Club gave each of the 28 pupils, who are studying Hospitality and Catering, £20 to buy the ingredients to create a threecourse meal in two hours.

Josef plattner who is currently Head Chef at Cranfield University, and who has in the past cooked for members of the Royal family, judged the competition on costing, planning, healthy choices, presentation skills and neatness.

Saskia Savage who wowed the judges with her meal of gamba pil pil, mini Taccos and a white chocolate mousse took first place. She will represent Bedford Rotary Club and Castle newnham school at the District Finals on 2nd Feb at north Herts College, Hitchin principal Ruth Wilkes said, “We were so delighted to welcome guests from The Rotary Club to Castle newnham to judge our cooking competition. This really inspired and motivated our pupils to raise their level of cooking and to present their meals in such an attractive way.

Being able to cook from fresh ingredients is a skill that we really value as a school and the enthusiasm of our food department makes this such a popular subject.” peter Walden of Bedford Rotary

First place winner Saskia explains how she created her dish to Josef and members of Bedford Rotary.

Club said: “The standard of all of the dishes was exceptionally high and we enjoyed tasting them. part of the competition was to present the meal attractively, something that winner Saskia managed to perfec-

tion, along with her excellent cooking. Boys and girls worked in a variety of cuisines, including italian, Spanish, Jamaican, indian and Sri Lankan, along with plenty of quality English dishes.”

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St Thomas More – vote to bag a share of Tesco’s Bag Fund

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

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ST Thomas more School is bidding to bag a massive cash boost from the Tesco Bags of Help initiative.

They are delighted to let you know that their application to the Tesco Bags of Help grant Scheme has been successful and their project has been put forward to a customer vote in all Bedford Tesco stores from Tuesday 1st January to Thursday 28th February 2019.

Customers cast their vote using a token given to them at the check-out in store each time they shop. The project with the highest number of tokens wins. as an extra-curricular activity, the Design & Technology department along with students (both boys and girls) aged 11-18 design and build electric powered racing cars to competitively race throughout the year.

They value each and every one of their students and the aim is to ensure everyone has the same opportunities to be the best that they can be without being held back due to family circumstances, poverty or disadvantage. in addition, they actively promote girls to engage with Science, Technology, Engineering and maths (STEm) and are very proud of the fact they have female designers, pit crew and racing drivers on the team. a wide range of students are

Driving ambition…

involved in the racing team and this project has worked wonders for these young people, helping them to develop their inter-personnel skills, academic knowledge and gain confidence in their everyday school life. at St Thomas more School they are striving to make every learning opportunity exciting and memorable. The aim is to open the eyes of their students; show them what is possible, introduce them to new technologies and above all, raise their aspirations. a number of pupils who were originally involved in the design and construction of the cars have now entered the engineering world, with previous team members securing their place at college to study car design or at University to study Engineering. in order for the school to continue with their more Car Racing Team in the coming year, they need to secure sponsorship funding which will enable them to further develop their existing racing cars and then enter the team into local and national competitions. Sponsorship will also cover practice sessions on suitable race tracks, provide the team with all of the required safety equipment and cover transport and refreshments costs on race days.

Don’t forget, voting will take place from Tuesday 1st January 2019 to Thursday 28th February so spread the word!

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Consider yourself entertained AUDIENCES were left asking for more after the recent performances of Oliver at Biddenham School.

Students of all ages and experience took part in the musical production, which included some excellent singing and acting performances and top quality work by the stage

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School’s ‘Future Chefs’

It WAs aprons at the ready when Castle newnham school hosted the local round of the future Chef competition. five schools from around the area brought two pupils, winners from the school heats, to take part at this stage where each young ‘chef’ was required to create a main course and a

dessert on a budget of £7.50. food produced on the day included sticky salmon, chicken chorizo, fruit brulee and treacle tart.

Principal of Castle newnham ruth Wilkes said: “We are delighted to take part in this competition which showcases just how talented many of

these young chefs are. It also gave them an opportunity to have their food judged by a professionals from the food industry, so overall a great experience.”

Winners of the local heats go onto a regional final to compete for the chance to go onto the national final in London.

Bridging the generation gap with dance FOLLOWing their successful collaboration with the University of Bedfordshire with generation Dance performance residents of Bedford Citizens Housing association are continuing their dance sessions with instructors and students from the University.

Dance students have also visited them from goldington academy

who are taking part in a national competition and using inter-generational dance as the topic for their project. Both the students and residents had a great time dancing and moving to the music.

The dance sessions are proving to be extremely popular and enjoyable. marie Taylor, Chief Executive of BCHa said: “This is a fantastic

Student is a ‘future leader’ in engineering

way of our residents spending time with younger people to enjoy dance and movement. it is both beneficial health wise and great fun for all.”

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BEaTRiZ Soriano Tortosa is one of the 30% of females who received the arkwright Scholarship award.

The arkwright Engineering Scholarships seek to identify and support ‘future leaders’ in engineering. Fewer than 400 scholarships are awarded nationally with only a small number in Bedfordshire.

The award is highly sought after and is not easy to achieve. Beatriz had to complete a very tough application with a two hour aptitude paper in order to get to the final interview selection stage. The scholarship is provided by engineering establishment aRm, based in Cambridgeshire, who make the chips powering most of the world’s mobile phones.

paul Kennington, from arkwright Engineering Scholarships said: “Beatriz will have access to visits and work experience with aRm as well as mentoring to support her in school. in addition arkwright provide a range of further bespoke experiences and activities which she may choose to take part in.”

Headteacher mr millard said: “We are very proud of Beatriz’s achievements. Universities and employers actively seek arkwright Scholars, and this scholarship will benefit her future career. Our curriculum aims to empower students to tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, promoting the next generation of engineers.”

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JANUARY 3, 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

AROUND THE CLUBS AND SOCIETIES ROYAL ARTILLERY ASSOCIATION

The Biggleswade Branch of the Royal artillery association held a Branch meeting on 5th December2018, at the Sea Cadets Hall. There were sixteen members present.

The Chairman recited The Royal artillery prayer. apologies were received from four members.

The chairman welcomed one new member.

The minutes of the november Branch meeting were accepted as a true record.

The Treasurers report was received. an e-mail was received from HQ reminding the Branch about how to operate fund raising/charitable events, and a second email containing standardised formats for Branch documentation.

The president represented the Branch at the opening ceremony of The Field of Remembrance at Westminster abbey and placed a cross in the Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Yeomanry section on behalf of the Branch.

The Chairman said that the final numbers for the Christmas lunch was 30 and hoped all were looking forward to the event.

The Chairman informed the branch that 49 Battery parked their bus at the Station when they attended Remembrance Day and received a £200 fine! The Chairman reminded members to be aware of parking restrictions. peter Crump gave an interesting talk on the history of the Ra Yachts, St Barbara.

The meetings concluded at 15.57 hrs.

The Royal artillery association exists to look after the welfare of and foster comradeship between members of the Royal artillery both serving and retired. Ex-Service personnel of other arms or Regiments who wish to share the camaraderie are welcome. The Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sea Cadets Hall, Biggleswade starting at 14.30hrs. There is no meeting in January. (next meeting is on Wednesday 6th February 2019). please contact the Chairman Ted mcKenzie on 07900806235 or E mail tiger.ted@gmail.com for more details.

BIGGLESWADE IVEL EVENING TOWNSWOMEN GUILD

Chris Davies welcomed members to the guild’s Christmas party on monday, December 10. Birthday greeting were given to Joan Chelley, pauline Dover and maureen Harding. a minutes silence was taken to remember Barbara Rowlands a member for 32 years, who passed away recently.

Since the last meeting members had attended the anniversary dinner at Stratton House; a very small group met at Henlow for the monthly walk, despite the

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forecast of heavy rain the first downpour did not occur until travelling to lunch at the garden centre. members also attended the federation carol service at Walsworth Church, Hitchin. Chris Davies gave a report on the federation meeting she attended with gill Hibbert.

The next walk, a walk around the Sandy mast, will be held on Thursday, January 3 meeting in the car park at 10.45am.

Sandy Ukulele group were welcomed and played and sang throughout the evening, whilst members were able to enjoy a very varied selection of party foods and visit the bring and buy stall.

They were thanked by gill Hibbert for a most entertaining evening.

The winners of the competition for a Christmas tea towel was Liz Stirratt and raffle winners were Bobbie Ball, ann Taylor, gwyneth Lawton, Joyce Bilock, Jo Chelley, Chris Davies, Janet Trenholme and gill Hibbert. Sheila mills read out the reading she gave at the federation carol service.

The Chairman closed the meeting and wished everyone a happy Christmas.

The next meeting will be held on monday, January 14, 7.30pm at the Weatherly Centre. The speaker will be Sheila Edgar speaking about the staterooms at Buckingham palace. The competition will be something beginning with the letter i, new members and visitors are very welcome to join us. ann Taylor, Chairman, welcomed the members of the ivel Valley U3a to their november Social afternoon which was their Traditional Christmas party. it was very pleasing to see so many members had turned out on such a miserable day.

There was a tempting array of Christmas food and a splendid selection of raffle prizes donated by the members. ann sadly announced the death of Barbara Rowlands a former member. The speaker at the last meeting, Vic Botterill, had been very amusing and his talk had been very entertaining. She thanked those members who had given her several bags of scarves for the Cancer Hair Care Charity.

Details were given by the various groups. Book group 1 met on 1st December at Jean Williams’ house; Book group 2 met on 14th December at nettie Van de Weerd’s house; the Craft group met at Chris Davies’s house on Thursday 20th December for a social afternoon; the music group met on the 18th December at pam Hulbert’s house; the Walking group met on 12th December at Tempsford prior to the Christmas Lunch at Roxton garden Centre; The Sunday Lunch Club will be meeting on 20th January, 2019, and the venue will be decided at the first meeting in January.

Reminders were given to sign up for the Christmas Lunch as there were still spaces.

Thelma told the members about the soldier silhouettes that have been placed

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round the town at the streets where the soldiers lived to commemorate the Centenary celebration of the end of the First World War. Several games of bingo were played most of which were won by Kath perrin. The raffle was drawn and Brian Tobin, as mC, was pleased to announce that £55.00 had been raised for the Chairman’s Charity. all tucked into the food and there was much chat and laughter The Chairman closed the meeting thanking all for their donations which helped to make the afternoon such an enjoyable occasion.

Biggleswade & District Gardening Club

members of the Biggleswade & District gardening Club met for their 42nd annual general meeting in november.

There were 29 members present. The minutes of the 41st agm were accepted.

Tony gray thanked everyone who had helped over the last year and especially the members for supporting the events and attending the meetings. The Chairman closed by wishing everyone a merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy new Year. ann Taylor, secretary, gave a full and comprehensive report of the year’s activities – the speakers, the weekend break, the outing and the social evening. The Treasurer’s Report was given by Owen Williams and copies were circulated. Owen reviewed the clubs finances. Subscriptions will be maintained at the same levels. acceptances of the reports were unanimous.

The Officers and Committee were willing to stand again. The election of Tony gray as Chairman, Rowena Wolfe as Vice Chairman, Owen Williams as Treasurer, ann Taylor as Secretary and Committee members Kate Dilley, Dave Hockley and Thelma Rogers was agreed unanimously by all the members. mary newman suggested that Steve and Judy should be thanked for they do in organising the holiday and trips. Tony pointed out that he had covered this in his report. mary Williams asked if there could be a section in the Spring Show for young children such as garden in a plate.

Tony will bring this to the committee and to the Show Secretary. gwyneth thanked the committee for all the work they do.

Kate explained that the money raised from the raffle would be donated to East anglian Children’s Hospice and she thanked those members who had donated prizes. Robert Warn requested an outing in august as the garden did not require so much work then. This will be looked into.

Kate announced that the details for the four day break were available.

Rowena gave details of an outing by Langford gardening Club on 2nd march, 2019 to the Orchid Festival at Kew at a cost of £30.00 and she also read the programme planned for next year.

The business meeting closed followed by delightful refreshments provided by the committee, the raffle for the East anglian Children’s Hospices.

Tony gave a comical rendition of the second part of ‘albert & the Lion’ and Rowena gave a presentation of her recent holiday to Columbia and the Flower Festival at medellin. The next meeting will be on Wednesday 16th January 2019, at the Weatherley Centre. Subscriptions will be due. all visitors are very welcome at a small charge.

Club secretaries are reminded that the deadline for reports is the 18th of the month preceeding publication.

The editor will do his utmost to accommodate your report but they need to be on time!

Biggleswade History Society

Food, glorious food! pERHapS we’ve seen enough of food over the festive season but this month’s feature is all about local food traditions. One of the history themed mosaics on the bridge in Biggleswade High Street shows an eel and a crayfish in a river. You may wonder what these have to do with Biggleswade. Well, the river is our river ivel which in the 17th and 18th centuries had an abundance of freshwater eels and native crayfish, so much so that they were trapped and served as delicacies in the town’s best coaching inns.

These delicacies were favourites with travellers on the great north Road and Biggleswade became famous for them. However, the eels and crayfish, along with the long-distance coaching trade, disappeared during the early years of Queen Victoria’s reign. in 2013 TV chefs Jamie Oliver and Jimmy Doherty came to Biggleswade to film for ‘Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday night Feast’, a series aimed at revitalising disappearing regional food and farming traditions.

Their researchers had previously contacted our Society for information, principally about the Bedfordshire Clanger. We explained that the function of the authentic clanger, a hefty suet pudding boiled in a cloth, with pork or bacon and onion in one end and sweetened apple or jam in the other, was to fuel a family of modest means with a lot of pudding and a little meat. We also explained that the clanger is now only a distant memory, although a local baker had resurrected it in a smaller modern form as a kind of baked suet-crust pasty. none of our farming members remembered clangers being served up at home or even mentioned by parents or grandparents. a dish that one of our farmers did remember from his youth was sparrow pie made from the breast meat of about twenty birds, and he told one of the programme researchers about it. Clearly that was not the kind of rustic fare Jamie had in mind so the programme makers went with the safer option of the baker and his version of

1. Biggleswade History Society wishes all Bulletin readers a very Happy nrw Year!

2. We begin 2019 with a membership of 143.

3. On 3 December the Society held its annual Christmas party, this time in the magical setting of a beautifully decorated heated marquee in the grounds of Shortmead House. The evening began with the traditional pub-style team quiz in three rounds, with a break for refreshments. Five teams of eight competed and it was a very close contest. The winning team, self-deprecatingly named ‘all That Evolution Wasted’, snatched victory by half a point from their joint second-place rivals, ‘Biggleswade Blockheads’ and ‘The Forlorn Hope’. Trailing several points behind were ‘not as Dim as We Look’ and ‘The Quizards’. There followed an interlude for fun and photographs with ‘Tiaras and Tashes’ - party tiaras and stick-on moustaches – which caused a lot of hilarity. The moustaches proved as popular with the ladies as they did with the men, so we have photos of some very dashing and some very odd-looking party guests! The evening continued with a prize puzzle based on Biggleswade street

NEWS

Brownies support for SMART on tuesday, november 27 Maulden Brownies held their fundraising Christmas fare in aid of sMArt Prebend Day centre for the homeless in Bedford. the Brownies were marvellous coming up with many imaginative ideas on what kind of stalls to run and managed to raise a whopping amount of money for a brilliant charity. some really budding entrepreneurs amongst the Brownies .

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their ingenuity and cleverness in turning the smallest of items and the simplest of activities into fundraising possibilities was really impressive as was the organisational skills and preparation, both in advance of the event and on the night itself.

In just under an hour they managed to raise £123 from the sale of items and the putting on of games and activities for themselves within the group and friends and family members.

the clanger! The programme featuring the baked clanger went out in February 2014 and Jamie gave it a makeover, rustling up alternative fillings whilst retaining the tradition of savoury in one end and sweet in the other. it got a bit silly when it came to warming them up in a dung heap – Did farm workers really do that? – and throwing them around a field to compare them with Cornish pasties for strength and durability. But that’s entertainment!

Let us return to the sparrow pie. This harks back to a centuries-old tradition of treating all birds as game.

Country people got what meat they could – and field and hedgerow birds were free!

Today we happily feed small birds but the idea of eating them is abhorrent to us. That is strange because we eat poultry – and ducks, game birds and pigeons are seen as delicacies. The old nursery rhyme, ‘Sing a Song of Sixpence’, with its ‘four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie’ was not fanciful nonsense, because blackbirds really were on the menu! as for singing when the pie was opened, that could well be a reference to the show-piece of a grand medieval banquet, when a pie crust lifted from a deep dish allowed live birds to fly out. That would really have impressed the guests!

Just as Biggleswade’s inns were renowned for serving eels and crayfish, another coaching town in Bedfordshire, Dunstable on the Watling Street (now the a5), was famed for its delicious larks. The Victoria County History of Bedfordshire states in its entry for Dunstable: ‘another industry, which dates from the 17th century, is the catching of larks, which abound on the Dunstable Downs.

These, to the computed number of 50,000 a year, are sent up to London in the season.

Their fame was spread abroad by the travellers of the coaching days, and a contemporary says, Dunstable larks are served up to great perfection at some of the inns in this town owing to a peculiar and secret method in the process of cooking them.’ Sparrow pie, anyone?

names, seasonal poems recited by a very talented performer and fun with a caption competition. Finally, there was coffee and prize giving and a gift from Santa’s sack to take home.

4. Our first meeting of the new Year is on monday, 7 January at Trinity methodist Church with guest speaker Steve Fuller and his talk entitled ‘Coming Home – The Bedfordshire Regiment returns from the great War’. Steve is the authority on the Bedfordshire Regiment in the First World War. Some readers may have attended one or more of the series of talks he gave in the Sandy Town Council Chamber in recent months, or perhaps have visited his amazing website: www,bedfordregiment.org.uk where there is masses of information about all of the battalions of the Bedfords that served in WW1, including transcriptions of their war diaries detailing their precise movements, actions and orders day by day throughout the war. Film director peter Walker used material found on Steve’s site for his recent film, ‘They Shall not grow Old’. This talk is one not to be missed!

5. The Society is grateful to alan at BigglesFm for having given us air time on the Breakfast Show once a month for yet another year.

From now onward our regular slot will be on the Thursday immediately

before the next members’ meeting – that is the Thursday before the first monday of the month - so the next slot on the Breakfast Show will be 8.30 – 9.00 on Thursday, 3 January.

Tune in to 104.8 or go to www.bigglesfm.com and click on Listen Live to hear the latest news from the Society’s Editor.

04 Feb: ‘Wind & Watermills’ – a talk by Robin Webb.

04 mar: ‘The Life & Times of Lady Sandra Highsted’ – a talk by Sandy herself 01 apr: members only annual general meeting and beginning of the new subscription year. all meetings with speakers are held in the chapel at Trinity methodist Church, Shortmead Street. Doors open at 7.30pm for 8.00 and non-members are welcome to attend for a fee of £3.00 at the door.

PROGRAMME

For information visit our website: www.biggleswadehistory.org.uk Readers may also contact Jane Dale, the Society’s editor, on 01767 650340 or email editor@biggleswadehistory. org.uk For our low-price local history publications see the website or contact Jennifer Topham (01767 313407).

CONTACT US

to advertise to over 60,000 homes in Bedfordshire just call 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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

Can you help those most in need in the community?

BEDFORDSHiRE and Luton Community Foundation (BLCF) are an independent registered charity, providing support to local community groups and charities, many of whom are working with some of the county’s most vulnerable and in need.

They have launched their Surviving Winter appeal to support those who may struggle with food or fuel poverty during the winter months. it is estimated that over 41,700 households in Bedfordshire live in poverty.

Francesca Johnstone, Head of grantmaking at BLCF says: “We are asking the people and businesses of Bedfordshire to come together to support those in need and help them cope over the winter months. For many people it can sometimes be a choice between heating or eating, this isn’t just something that affects older people, but also families and others in need. monies raised will support those most vulnerable in the commu-

nity, together we can help to make a real difference.”

BLCF are partnering with local grassroot organisations who work with those most vulnerable in the community. They are working with local Bedford Foodbank, The need project, FaCES & age Concern to provide essential items like food parcels, winter kits, or even helping towards paying fuel costs for those most in need.

The appeal is running between until February 2019 and aims to raise £10,000 to support individuals and families across the county during the winter months. if you are a local business or individual that would like to support this appeal please get in touch on 01234 834930. alternatively you can donate by text to: ‘BLCF10’ followed by the amount (£5 or £10) to 70070 Or visit our website link: http://www.blcf.org.uk/giving/donate/winter/

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

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New equipment donated for SMART Prebend Centre EaRLiER this year Rotary Club of Bedford held a successful charity breakfast for members and friends to raise funds to help the Homeless in Bedford. in addition to breakfast everyone enjoyed the singing of inter-faith, youth music group, Fusion. proceeds from the breakfast, plus further funds from the club’s charitable trust provided a total of £1500 which has been used to purchase much needed new equipment at the SmaRT prebend Centre.

Recently, president John Day, immediate past president Keith Cawdell and Bill anderson, who made the original proposal for the project, attended the prebend Centre to formally hand over the new commercial dishwasher plus two floor washers and a toaster to Jen Robus, assistant manager at the Centre. She told the Rotarians that the new equipment has transformed the workload in keeping everything clean and tidy and made a real difference to the way in which the staff are able to provide much needed meals and support for those attending the Centre.

HAVE YOU GOT A STORY TO TELL? Let us know all about it – email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com Year 13 student celebrates winning Sixth Form Public Speaking Contest STUDEnTS from mark Rutherford School Sixth Form competed in the prestigious English Speaking Union’s Sixth Form public speaking competition regional final at the

perse School, in Cambridge, and collected one of the top awards.

Team member amy Stott was awarded the Outstanding performance award for her five

minute speech on the challenges facing education in England. She was supported by fellow Year 13 students Dylan gordillo and Charli marshall. amy Stott won against stiff competition from a number of schools. mark Rutherford School was one of six teams taking part in the event, which included teams from the perse School, aldenham School and the Colchester Royal grammar School.

The English Speaking Union is internationally recognised as one of the leading organisations promoting public speaking and debating in schools and universities.

Headteacher mr millard said: “Well done to all three students on this fantastic and most impressive achievement. We are proud of the skill and confidence of our students, enabling them to articulate ideas and share them with others.”

‘Mr Bedford’ keeping us moving aT an event held at Bedford Corn Exchange, pete Smith won the Battle of Bedford bodybuilding competition, placing first in the master’s Category, first in the Overall Battle of Bedford, and winning the ‘mr Bedford’ title. amazingly, this is not pete’s full-time job; he works for Bedford Borough Council as a Street Lighting and Winter maintenance Supervisor, part of the team coordinating gritting operations across the Borough.

The Council has already carried out its first gritting runs of the season, with each run covering around 480km of road, and with the temperatures dropping pete and his team are about to get even busier. pete said: “as a bodybuilder i have come face to face with many difficult challenges, some of which

have threatened to end any chance of me competing. Yet with hard work, determination, and belief in myself i have overcome those odds. “in the same way our winter maintenance regime very much relies on the same combination of training, hard work and determination by the whole team, to keep Bedford Borough moving through even the most severe winter conditions.”

Cllr Charles Royden, portfolio Holder for Transport said: Whatever weather this winter season throws at us we have the muscle to deal with it, especially with ‘mr Bedford 2018’ as part of our Winter maintenance Team. Thanks to pete and all of the team for all they do to keep our roads moving, and good luck to pete for further bodybuilding success! “

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JANUARY 3, 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

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HISTORY OF THE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE IN BEDFORDSHIRE Centenary Year 1919 – 2019

tHe first Women’s Institute was formed in stony Creek, ontario, Canada in 1897. farmers wives arranged meetings in their own homes, to discuss and exchange ideas on how to improve conditions of rural life for themselves and their children.

In this way a movement was born which was to become one of the largest organisations for women throughout the world. the first Women’s Institute to be established in the uK was in north Wales in 1915 and the Women’s Institute in the uK celebrated its Centenary in 2015. following the opening of the first WI in north Wales at Llanfairpwll in1915, another WI opened in West sussex, again in 1915. they became the first County to establish its own County federation in 1917.

In 1917 a national federation meeting was held at Central Hall Westminster, and Lady Denman was elected national Chairman, by 60 delegates from 137 Institutes then in existence.

in this our Centenary Year we look back at our own history. The first Wi opened in Dunstable in 1917 followed in 1918 by the formation of another eight institutes, with many of them thriving today. Fifteen institutes were required to enable the formation of a Federation.

On Saturday September 27th 1919, at a meeting at Shire Hall in Bedford, presided over by mrs S.m.

Whitbread where 24 Wi’s were represented, the Bedfordshire County Federation was formed, with mrs Whitbread appointed as the first County Chairman.

By 1924 the number of Wi’s had increased to 35 with over 2000 members. mrs J Whitchurch had become County Chairman and remained in the post for many years. Today we have 83 Wi’s with 2,800 members, across the whole of Bedfordshire.

Our current Chairman is mrs S Ball.

The Board of Trustees has arranged a variety of

BEDFORDSHIRE

special events to celebrate our Centenary, commencing with a Service of Thanksgiving at priory Church Dunstable acknowledging our beginnings in that area.

Several Dignitaries have been invited to the Service and will include the national Chair of Women’s institutes, together with the Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire and the High Sheriff of Bedford.

Local mp’s and representatives of neighbouring County Federations will also be in attendance. needless to say we shall have representatives from the 83 Wi’s across Bedfordshire. many events on a variety of subjects are planned, throughout 2019 to cover the differing aspects of our membership the following are not exclusive, but a synopsis of the main occasions. as the year progresses we shall have’ an afternoon With’ event, where our Speaker will be Dame Stella Rimington Former mi5 Director and Spy. a Centenary Council meeting, with Christine Walkden, Television

presenter, as our Speaker. a Celebratory afternoon Tea is to be held in august at the Sculpture gallery on the Woburn Estate.

On September 27th our actual Birthday we will hold a Flower Festival and pimm’s evening at Wi House in adelaide Square, and a peel of Bells will ring out across the County. October sees us Celebrate with a Centenary night at the proms and bringing our year to a close will be a Carol Service at Elstow abbey. in Celebrating the BCFWi Centenary we are celebrating 100 years of Friendship, Learning and Campaigning.

The world has changed, and we have to change with it, although maintaining the same ethos of the past, and looking forward to the next 100 years.

Enquiries regarding membership of the Wi can be sent to Federation Office, 62 adelaide Square, Bedford mK40 2RW. Tel. no. 01234 359538 Email: bcfwi@btconnect.com

Have you a property related problem?

THE PROPERTY DOCTOR CAN HELP New Year’s resolution – don’t delay plan today A New Year is upon us, time for setting resolutions… and promptly breaking them by the end of January! However, it is also time to make sure we plan for 2019 and all that we wish to achieve.

Start 2019 with a positive desire to get done those things you were putting off throughout 2018.

Maintenance of your home or commercial property is crucial and can be expensive, but if sensibly planned costs can be restricted whilst retaining value in your most expensive asset. Don’t put off the desire for change either. This could be a move to a new home or work premises or alterations.

All these things take time to design, consider, cost and undertake so don’t delay, plan today!

Do not curtail your dreams by inaction. Make 2019 the year of action and change

READER’S QUESTION: It has been a busy month in December with questions and queries: I had my conservatory roof renewed with a solid roof but the company who fitted it did not obtain Building Regulation consent, what can I do?

Building Regulations exist to ensure that buildings meet certain standards.

They relate to all construction related works (with some exceptions). In this instance the conservatory needs to be considered in context of whether it is part of the main house or not. By this I mean, does it have external doors to access the house and no permanent heating. If this is the case the conservatory does not need to meet the thermal insulation requirements of Approved Document L. However, a change to a different structure needs to have some justification to prove the conservatory is strong enough to support the alternate roof construction.

The builder in question should have been able to advise on the original construction and the new construction. This information can then be passed on to a structural engineer to produce the relevant calculations to prove to Building Control all is correct. Once approved the Certificate should be retained for future use, if selling your property

Q A

Do you have any questions about your property that you need answering?

Ask the expert, ask the Property Doctor – Jim Mallams

Suite 1 Franklin House, 2 Steppingley Road, Flitwick MK45 1AJ E: jim@cubebuildingconsultancy.com www.cubebuildingconsultancy.com

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Youth Parliament Members make their mark at Westminster

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

— 21

Councillors push for meeting over leisure in Sandy FRUSTRaTED Sandy residents are seeking clarity from their council over the ongoing situation surrounding future community access to sport and leisure facilities at Sandy Secondary School. The Council, which is not party to the contract covering use of these facilities, has written to the parties involved offering to facilitate a meeting to obtain understanding and assist in finding a path to Central Bedfordshire Council have declined the offer of a meeting of all parties at this stage but have stated that the Sandy Secondary School facilities remain an important part of their leisure provision and

TWO Central Bedfordshire UK Youth parliament members joined peers from across the UK for a debate in the House of Commons – where putting an end to knife crime and Votes at 16 emerged as the priority campaign for UK young people.

Seb Jolly (Redborne Upper School) and poppy galloway Rogers (Vandyke Upper School) were among the 350 Youth parliament members from across the nation who took part in the session, chaired by Speaker of the House of Commons, Rt Hon John Bercow mp.

The 11-18-year olds debated the five leading Cllr Steve Dixon with Youth Voice members during the LGBTQ+ awareness day and bake sale. topics from the make Your mark ballot – which also included mental Topics covered included knife Health; Equal pay for Equal Work crime, mental health, self-esteem, and Tackling Homelessness – before LgBTQ+, child sexual exploitation voting to decide which two should (CSE), county lines and gangs. become the UK Youth parliament’s Cllr Dixon, Executive member priority campaigns for 2018/2019. for Families, Education and make Your mark is an annual Children, said: “The opportunity to ballot which asks young people to debate in the House of Commons is highlight the issues which matter a fabulous experience for anyone most to them. This year, a record and i’m sure that our UK Youth 1,111,580 took part, including 7,568 parliament members, Seb and across Central Bedfordshire, where poppy, will have found it a rewardthe top issue is also putting an end to ing one. knife crime. “it’s so important that young after thepassionate debate in the people in Central Bedfordshire have House of Commons on Friday a voice, so to have more than 7,568 november 9, Seb said: “it was an contribute to this year’s make Your amazing experience and one that i mark annual ballot and vote for will never forget, it was a real priviwhat are their priority issues is an lege to represent my peers across impressive demonstration of democCentral Bedfordshire.” racy in action.

When I was reminded the other day The debate coincided with Youth “i also had the pleasure of meetto write a New Year message you Work Week, a yearly initiative to ing and talking with members of normally fall into the trap of a serm on or an appeal and I fell for the latte build greater awareness and underCentral Bedfordshire’s Youth Voice r.

We have a wonderful town here in Sand y and we are lucky enough to standing and celebrate the incredible groups over the October half term have an active community with man y orga nisa tions providing a wide varidifference Youth Work makes to and really enjoyed hearing their ety of events to enjoy and enhance our town. I would like to thank all young people’s lives. views about how they are positively thos e who take part in our community in whatever way and help in the lead up to that, volunteers shaping their communities. i’d urge make Sandy a wonderful place to live. came together for Central more young people to get involved Next year though we need the voice to ensure the views of young people Bedfordshire’s three-day annual loudly and often. Sandye Place Acad of our community to be heard Youth Voice Conference, where are known and understood.” emy happens next? The leisure facilities are is closing as we know it, so what representatives of the Youth The young people also raised parliament, Youth Central, Children just under £180 through an Secondary School, where will that end?under consideration at Sandy A huge impact could be felt and and Young people’s Board and the LgBTQ+ awareness day and bake with everyone’s help, clear commun icati Children in Care Council planned sale, which will go towards providhopefully any changes could really beneons and partnership working fit Sandy. As Sandy has so often some of their key activity for 2019. ing support and social groups for proved, there are a great many peop le and organisations who are willing guest speakers included the LgBTQ+ young people. to work together for the benefit of our Council’s Children’s Services For more information on the and/or your Ward councillors know community. So please let your Town Director Sue Harrison, Cllr Steve Central Bedfordshire Youth Voice your really do have a chance to make a diffe ideas and thoughts and you Dixon, plus Bedfordshire police, and Youth parliament go to renc My hope for the New Year is that we e. public Health and the Royal College https://www.cbyouthvoice.co.uk/ maintain our sense of community, that we all put aside any differences we may of paediatrics and Child Health. youth-parliament

indicated that no changes to the Sandy leisure centre will be made in the foreseeable future. a strategic review to understand the wider needs for leisure in the area and assess the demand for sports facilities across Central Bedfordshire, including the Sandy area, is to be carried out.

Sandy Town Councillors are pleased that there are no immediate changes in public use of and access to existing sports facilities, they expressed disappointment at the lack of communication with both the Town Council and the public and as such, are continuing to call for a round table meeting in January 2019.

SANDY

TOWN COUNCIL NeW YeaR MeSSage fROM The MaYOR

School’s Travel Plan wins Bronze award

have and work in unison to achieve the very best for Sandy.

Last but not least, many thanks to all those who have shown my wife and I hospitality throughout the year and allowed us to be a part of some wonderful events and occasions. We look of you this year. I wish everyone a very forward to meeting many more happy New Year.

Cllr Michael Scott

LORS D L I C N U O C AR TOWN WARD PINNACLE W dis IVEL

ST THOmaS more school has been accredited with a Bronze Level award for their School Travel plan – one of only two schools in the Borough to achieve this. modeshift STaRS is a school Travel planning portal recognising best practice in sustainable school travel through the delivery of travel plans. The modeshift STaRS accreditation was achieved as part of the school’s development and implementation of our School Travel plan which is led by mrs grimley.

Student cyclist of all ages from St Thomas more attended a meeting to look at a cyclist Code of Conduct and a Cycling policy for the school.

The purpose of the meeting was to build up the cycling capacity of the school by listening to the concerns of their cyclists and to ensure that

they are encouraged to be considerate cyclists within the community.

Supporting this initiative was ‘SUSTRanS’ from Bedford Borough who shared their plans to build on ways they hope to encourage cycling through use of the ‘Smoothie Bike’.

This will be a feature for planned events going forward and they are looking forward to being a part of this.

The school is indebted to peter Blakeman for his support in this venture over the years and with his help, the school have notched up 92 cyclists! also, special thanks to mr newman, himself a keen cyclist, who has taken the lead on this excellent initiative. it is their vision to achieve 100 cyclists so watch this space!

Cllr P N Al D BEESTON WAR ne ai Bl P 01767 691333 lr Cl t Cllr M P Scot 7 Mayfield Court, 692619 7 76 01 57 se, Home 01767 6814 Sandy SG19 1NF Clo r pla Po 19 ington .com H 1H “The Gowans” Sedd ad nigel.aldis1@gmail 19 SG y Sand Ro .com bson ail Gi gm A e@ lr ain Nursery, Great North Cl .bl ine y SG19 1NZ peterbla Seddington, Sand 01767 699517 t.com y SG19 1HS rne nte Cllr M Hill bti @ 29 scott7 1 Allhallows, Sand ail.com tm ho 01767 681469 e@ amandafag on, 21 The Green, Beest T Knagg lr Cl D WARD SG19 1PE FALLOWFIEL 01767 223165 .com. amaxhill@outlook 3 Jubilee Close, le Cllr T Co son Sandy SG19 1JA ck Ja W lr Cl 88 m Home 01767 6998 b.knagg@outlook.co 49 25 68 7 0176 Osborne C , lr ns 1 Partridge Piece, Cl rde Ga d iel 14 Westf Sandy SG19 2UP M.B.E., J.P. Sandy SG19 1HF ail.co.uk m t.co rne nte teresacole@hotm bti 01767 682032 will.jackson662@ eds Smith h Summercourt, 2 Le ac Le G lr Cl tt tti 1LU Pe J 19 SG M y lr Cl Drive, Sand 01767 681491 680082 arrow 7 Sp 76 J 01 lr Cl cil un rdens, C/o Sandy Town Co 42 Swansholme Ga 01767 682693 ad, uncil 10 Cambridge Ro y SG19 1HL nd Sa C/o Sandy Town Co m E .co 1J dia 19 me gin vir , Sandy SG t@ ad ttit Ro .pe ge rtin rid 10 Camb uncil.gov.uk ma admin@sandytownco 19 1JE n SG y tto nd Su Sa J S Cllr an ompson Cllr P Sharm Cllr Dr N Th 01767 227589 37 56 31 95 68 59 7 , 9 0788 0176 33 Bedford Road 3 Swallow Crest, 46 Kestrel Way Sandy SG19 1EP N 2S Sandy SG19 Sandy SG19 2TE

Meeting facilitie s at Council Offices the Facil

ities for meetings, training courses, exh talks, interviews an ibitions, d like events are av ailable for hire by private individu als, commercial an d community organisations durin g the hours of 9.3 0am–4.30pm on weekdays. The room offers Wi-Fi, screen and projector (users sh ould supply their own charts and free pa rking in the adjoinin laptop), flip g To Car Park. If you are interested in this fac wn Centre contact the office ility please for further details and costs.

New Sunderland Road Play Park

cement of the In November, work began on the repla recreRoad d erlan Sund the at t men old play equip some r mbe Dece In . ation ground play park ved to allow for additional paving needed to be remo and works in lled insta ctly corre be to ing matt y safet for the new ble suita it e mak to nd grou preparing the t should men equip new The d. equipment progresse gise for the be installed in January 2019. We apolo play park delay and continue to work with the to a high leted comp are s work re provider to ensu standard.

COUNCIL M

eeTINgS

All meetin Developmen gs commence at 7.30pm ex t Scrutiny Com cept mittee (Plann usually starts ing) which at 6.45pm in th e Council Cha 10 Cambridge mber, Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Mon

day 7th Januar y 2019 Development S cr utiny Policy finance & Resources Monday 14th January 2019 Community S ervices & envi ronment Monday 21st Ja nuary 2019 Town Counci l Monday 28th January 2019 Development Scrutiny Policy finance & Resources See our web site for details of other meetin ALL MEMBERS gs OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS AR WELCOME TO E ATTEND

10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk

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JANUARY 3, 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

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In Focus with

View from the Rt Revd

In Focus with

Dave

Richard Atkinson

Yasin

The Bishop of Bedford

MP for Bedford and Kempston

SEEING CLEARLY THROUGH THE BREXIT FOG

REFERENDUM ON POLICE FUNDING REQUIRED

by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford

EXTRA SCHOOLS’ FUNDING FROM THE GOVERNMENT

The recent Local government Finance Settlement confirmed that deep, brutal government cuts for local services continue.

Our main government grant has fallen from £30m in 2015 to under £6m in the coming year. This is in spite of an increasing need for services, especially care for the elderly and vulnerable. meanwhile, you only have to look at the financial collapse and sweeping emergency cuts at one of our neighbouring councils, northamptonshire, to see what we’ve averted through our rigorous financial management and commitment to protecting services. it’s not just in northamptonshire that widespread cuts and closures have taken place, either.

For example, a recent survey has revealed that another 127 libraries closed across the country last year. That’s a national scandal, and one that we’ve avoided, saving all of our branches from closure.

The funding crisis for councils is only getting deeper and deeper, and the finance settlement has only confirmed that despite what the prime minister has claimed, austerity is most definitely not over for local services There was some more positive funding new lately, however, with success for the campaign against the £1.3m government funding cuts our schools have been facing.

We’ve secured extra funding from the Department for Education which cancels out the cut!

The extra funding will maintain the current per-pupil funding rate for Bedford Borough’s Schools for 2019/20. my thanks to all the schools, parents, petition-signers and other politicians who, alongside our intensive lobbying effort, helped to secure this campaign success on behalf of local children and young people.

The top-up funding is fantastic news in light of the dire situation our schools were facing.

However, it’s important to note it only returns our schools to a standstill position when funds are already very tight.

We’ll keep working to protect our schools and other hard-pressed local services from damaging government cuts.

Happy new Year! if, like me, you wear glasses (or contact lenses) you will know that experience of the optician trying out different lenses in order to get your prescription right.

Quite often you start with a lens that still leaves everything blurred, until that moment when a further lens enables you to see clearly. Those letters on the chart, which had been impossible to decipher, become crystal clear. it feels to me at the moment that in the life of our nation we are living in a time when our sight is blurred. The issues surrounding Brexit are so dominating the agenda of parliament, public discourse and the news that it is almost impossible to focus on anything else. i was reminded of this in a conversation with a small group of local members of parliament. One of them drew our attention to the continuing plight of the Rohingya people currently displaced from myanmar to Bangladesh. people who have been the victims of awful violence and abuse, who are now stateless and at risk. The mp said sadly, ‘they are still there but no one sees them’.

That, of course, is true of so many other significant concerns in our society and the world. To see clearly; to see beyond Brexit is to see the huge numbers who use food-banks, the millions of refugees across our world, those at risk from climate change and rising tides, international tension between Russia and some of its neighbours, and many more such issues. in St mark’s gospel, chapter eight, there is the account of Jesus healing a blind man at Bethsaida. it stands out because there is a two stage healing. at first the Blind man says ‘i see people; they look like trees walking around’. Jesus then lays his hands again on the man and all is clear. ‘He saw everything’ says St mark. as we start a new year i encourage you to see clearly. To look beyond Brexit - not that Brexit is unimportant; far from it - but it is not the whole story. indeed it is not even, in the face of significant challenges of justice and righteousness, the most important issue. See clearly! See what is still happening across our world for only when see ‘everything’ will we find the strength and passion to do something about it.

after months of pressure from increasingly desperate public services, the government this month finally announced their settlement on Local government and police funding.

Whilst some new money was conjured up to some relief, it was a bitter-sweet offering as it is the public that will now have to pay more for public services through increases to council tax payments to plug the gap the government created.

Figures for this year show that police numbers are now at the lowest level in thirty years.

Since 2010 over 21,000 police officers have been lost, over 16,000 police staff and over 6,000 community support officers have been axed despite a promise to protect the frontline.

The government were warned by Bedfordshire’s police Chief amongst others about cuts to police funding and we have all seen the consequences of the cuts to police numbers and the rise in serious violent crime in Bedford. police recorded violent crime is now at the highest on record; knife offences are at the highest level since records began; arrests have halved in a decade and unsolved crimes stand at two million.

Central government funding to police forces has fallen by 30% since 2010 yet the policing minister tried dress up his government’s cuts to policing as extra funds for police. The truth is any money to tackle violent crime and street policing will only be raised by increasing council tax to make up the £8 million extra funding in our area. This breaks down into, £1.3m in extra core grant, £1.1m in a contribution for police pensions and £5.6m from council tax increase. . a referendum to increase the amount of money Bedfordshire tax payers would give the area’s police force was rejected under the previous police and Crime Commissioner, Olly martins, in 2015. after a decade of austerity, councils and frontline staff have worked hard to keep our public services going. Rather than find the funding, the government has shifted the burden onto council tax payers knowing full well that when every household sees a rise in their bills, they will blame local authorities rather than the government.

Westfield bakers rise to the occasion Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service

WestfIeLD school’s annual ‘Bake off’ had all the right ingredients for a tasty event. the theme for this year was seasonal and the school’s chosen charity the WWf. the bakes reflected this with black and white panda and Christmas tree cakes. the competition was organised and judged by the school council, who also filmed the event to show to the school in assembly.

Headteacher Karen Watts said: “this is always an amazing event but the standards get higher each year. there were some amazing ‘showstoppers’ and the children worked really hard to produce them in just over an hour, a great achievement.” the cakes were sold to raise money for the WWf.

looking for wholetime firefighters

LOOKing to start the new Year with a new challenge?

Looking for a career that is both interesting, exciting and helps your community? Ever thought of becoming a firefighter? There’s a lot more to it than just fighting fires – you get to work in your community to help protect vulnerable people and prevent emergencies from happening.

Throughout January Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) are running a recruitment campaign for wholetime (also known as full-time) firefighters to its crews. The recruitment period opens on 4 January and closes on 8 February.

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service operate a 24 hour shift system with Firefighters being on duty for 24 hours followed by 72 hours off duty. This gives our firefighters the opportunity for a great work/life balance.

Wholetime firefighters are based in Bedford, Dunstable, Kempston, Luton and Stopsley and are trained not only in firefighting and dealing with road traffic collisions but also specialist skills such as water rescue, animal rescue, working at height and dealing with hazardous materials. You can also obtain your HgV licence and learn to drive a fire appliance such as our aerial platform or special rescue unit.

BFRS is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community and is particularly for more women and people from under-represented sections of its community to apply to become a firefighter.

To be a wholetime Firefighter you should live in Bedfordshire, or within ten miles of its border, be fit, 18

by the 22nd march, have three gCSEs or equivalent, be able to swim and have a full driving licence (with no pending issues).

The Service is looking for individuals who possess a range of personal qualities to work in the local communities, these include: • Being keen to contribute to a safer community • Committed to equality and fairness • an understanding of their role with regards to health, safety and welfare.

• Highly motivated • Effective team member • Effective communicator • Flexible approach to undertaking new initiatives.

Successful candidates will be required to serve at any community fire station within the Bedfordshire area.

Candidates will be required to gain Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) clearance and pass a Service medical. apply online from 4th January 2019, job description and personnel specification, together with other relevant details may be obtained from www.bedsfire.gov.uk/Careers/WholetimeRecruitment.aspx .

Closing date for applications is 1200 noon on Friday 8 February 2019. after this date the shortlisting process will take place and those selected will be invited to undertake the first stage of the selection process. The recruitment process can be lengthy and the final, successful candidates will begin their thirteen week training course in September 2019.

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

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AT YOUR SERVICE

JANUARY 3, 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

Debs

Professional Hairdressing MOBILE OR HOME SALON WIDE AREA COVERED

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COnTEmpORaRY arts charity, Bedford Creative arts (BCa) announces it has appointed a new Director, Elaine midgley, to the BCa team. midgley comes to Bedford after ten years in Cambridge, most recently as Business Development Director for Cambridge Live and previously, arts and Events manager for Cambridge City Council.

Elaine midgley joins BCa with a mission to boost growth and development and build on significant projects such as pROCESSiOnS and Clubhouse, as well as the successful The Culture Challenge initiative for schools and creative professionals, and recent events such as The Question of Collaboration symposium, which included internationally renowned artists on its panel of guest speakers.

Commenting on her appointment midgley said: “BCa already punches above its weight as a small arts organisation making a huge difference to the local community and beyond. i seek to raise the profile of BCa across the region and nationally as a shining example of

best practice in culturally engaging contemporary arts activity that is truly collaborative and participatory for the communities it serves. Our status as a national portfolio Organisation of the arts Council for the next four years, gives us a solid platform on which to build and grow the breadth and reach of our programme into more geographic locations, more communities and a wider variety of creative disciplines.”

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THanK you to all of you who have already entered this year’s annual gardening Quiz (December’s magazine). if you haven’t yet had a go, you have until the 15th of January 2019 to send me your answers. and if you have mislaid the magazine, contact me using the details below and i will send you the questions.

Remember: the first correct entry pulled from my hat wins an hour’s worth of gardening from yours truly! give it a go.

Two questions have largely formed the correspondence this month: roses and lawns. Regarding the former, the question was whether now is the best time to prune or not?

Well, as with all walks of life, different people view situations differently but my view, largely acquired at horticulture college, is that the very best time to prune roses is in spring, just when they really start to get growing after a ‘resting’ period brought on by the cold. all types of roses, apart from Ramblers (which are very scarce these days), form flowers on that year’s wood so, if you prune before Christmas, you will be depriving yourself of seeing roses in flower at exactly the time when colour is scarce in a garden. it is very common for roses to continue flowering throughout December indeed just last week (mid-December) i was able to photograph roses in bloom.

There are exceptions to this nonpruning regime; if the winds are strong and if your rose is getting blown around, you might deem it worth pruning to prevent ‘wind rock’ disturbing the plant’s roots.

Similarly, if growth is plentiful but weak, cut out. apart from that, my advice is to mulch and to continue dead heading. another other reason for pruning in spring is, if time is tight, prune now and you will probably need to re-prune in march/april time so why do the same job twice? a number of you have asked about lawn mowing at this time of the year and should it be done? Well, it depends on the lawn and it depends on the mower! as i have written before, some of the best ‘lawns’ in this country can be seen at sporting venues and these will continue to be trimmed as long as the grass continues to grow. alan Titchmarsh, cuts his lawn (weather permitting) every new Year’s Day and my advice is simply, just as long as you are not damaging the ground by being on it, it is fine to cut lawns.

By doing so will help stop weeds going into seed production, (remember the sage advice: one year in seed, seven years in weed), and keeping your lawn regularly trimmed will also prevent a build up of detritus.

Leaves on a ‘wooly’ lawn get tangled whereas on short grass are able to freely blow around. it is when leaves form a thick layer that damage will take place underneath. as always, garden to the conditions and nOT the calendar. as usual, many thanks to all of you for contributing to this column and please contact me with any gardening tasks or queries you may have, lawndocgardens@aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855.

Best wishes all for a very Happy new Year.

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 3, 2019

— 25

Work starts at local developers first Bedfordshire site

MeMBers of the local community, Parish Councillors, representatives from Bedford Borough Council as well as the companies involved in the design and build of the new homes, gathered together on Monday 10 December to mark the official start on site of st Mary’s Place, Carlton. this is Bushmead Homes’ first development in Bedfordshire and is set to provide a mix of ten newbuild houses together with the refurbishment of an existing property for outright sale.

A further six homes will be offered as shared ownership along with two bungalows which will be developed for rent.

Councillor David Jenkins attended the ground-breaking ceremony on behalf of Carlton and Chellington Parish Council and said: “firstly, we are pleased to have homes being built in the village that will be affordable and will give priority to those with a connection to the village.

We are also pleased that some of the dwellings are bungalows as our residents’ survey showed a need for such houses.

“When the first plan was shown to us we were concerned over some aspects of it and we are pleased that many of those concerns have been listened to particularly on the density of housing and numbers of parking spaces and finally we are pleased that the construction is being done

by Parrott’s, a local firm.”

Jeff Astle, Bushmead Director, said: “It was wonderful to gather

the community together and celebrate the start of our Carlton development. not only is this an exciting time for Bushmead Homes it is also an exciting time

for the community and to have such positive feedback from Carlton and Chellington Parish Council and local residents is great.”

st Mary’s Place is anticipated to complete in october 2019.

Please call 01234 619058 to register an interest.

GOLF

Mount Pleasant Golf Club’s 26th annual club dinner & presentation nOVEmBER saw the 26th annual Club Dinner & presentation at mount pleasant golf Club. The evening was a great success, starting off with a delicious three course meal from our resident awardwinning Head Chef, Trace Buggins and his team.

The evening then turned to the president of the Club and Captains for a roundup of the year. The Captains highlighted competition winners and all the great work that has been done for their chosen charities. The charities this year were, Wood green - The animal Charity, alzheimer’s Society and prostate Cancer. it was fantastic to reveal that a total of more than £5,000 has been raised to date for these worthy

causes, with still two more months to go. after the speeches had finished, presentations began. The Club has had some great successes over the year, with our first Junior, miss Jenifer Webb-Tocha, coming up through the ranks to win the Ladies Championship. meanwhile the Club Championship was won by mr paul Robson. Finally, we had the ladies and men’s ‘player of the Year’ awards. These went to two very deserving winners, mrs Chris Kermath and mr Darren ambrose; congratulations to them both. all in all, the evening was a great success and the management would like to thank everyone who attended and made it such a great night.

Jenifer Tocha, Ladies Championship Winner 2018.

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JANUARY 3, 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

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out & about –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD ORGAN & BUGGY FIT FRiEnDS OF ST OWEn’S paRiSH BEDFORD FOLK DanCE CLUB BIGGLESWADE KEYBOARD CLUB 60TH CHURCH NEW YEAR CL ASSES WATERPOLO THE ADDISON CENTRE COUNTRY AND FOLK ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Thursday 1pm-2pm present ANNIVERSARY QUIZ every Monday 8.30pm PRESENT POPULAR ENTERTAINER the Weatherly Centre DANCE CLUB REUNION orchard Close Biggleswade sG18 0ne at saxon Pool sG18 8su HUNTINGDON MILton ernest VILLAGe HALL evenings 8pm – 10pm thursday Email: robyn1.sg@gmail.com or 12 and older, both sexes of the 1st Kempston Boys’ Brigade will 0300 300 5125.

MALE VOICE sAturDAY JAnuArY 5 at 7pm come along and join the fun IN CONCERT Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford take place on Tuesday 12-2pm MK41 8eB WEDS 30 JANUARY CHOIR IN –––––––––––––––––––– FiSH anD CHip SUppER saturday, february 9th 2019, 7pm at saxon Pool and Leisure Centre, 7.30 – 10.00pm its good fun for only £2.50 including Biggleswade CONCERT Kempston east Methodist Hall. £10 per ticket from SANDY TOWN refreshments no partner required.

TEA, COFFEE/BAR/RAFFLE £2 per session Ron Law 01234 825574 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– saturday 9 february at 7pm at there will also be a PArADe on BOWLING CLUB neilroy33@aol.com Bromham Baptist Church MK43 8LJ Members £5 PAY AT WALKING sunday february 10th at 10:30am www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com play bowls at this friendly local club adjaNon-Members £6 DOOR Teams of six, licensed bar FOOTBALL by kind permission of the minister and cent to Sandy Village Hall. Excellent ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– open invitation is extended to aLL an –––––––––––––––––––– green. Experienced and new bowlers Elders Tuesday 2pm-3pm @ Contact: 01234 344423 past members. welcome. Coaching available.

–––––––––––––––––––– saxon Pool & Leisure Centre, www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford Tickets £12 adult £6 u16 more details: Biggleswade MUSIC ON please spread the word! secretary Michael Groom: BEDFORD RSpB LOCaL gROUp £1.50 per session Bookings 01234 825454 or 826551 –––––––––––––––––––– 01767 227523 THURSDAYS For details or to attend, please contact please note: all classes are subject to sandytownbowlingclub.org.uk meet at aRa club, manton Lane change, Dave Simms on 07985643678 or kemp–––––––––––––––––––– BiDDEnHam gaRDEnERS LLOYD trumpet, MATILDA Bedford mK41 7pF. physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk –––––––––––––––––––– aSSOCiaTiOn stonbb.pma@gmail.com JONATHAN BUNNEY organ BEDFORDSHiRE FamiLY HiSTORY thursday 17th January 7.30.pm –––––––––––––––––––– tuesday 19th february 2019 at 7.30 SOCiETY MUSIC ON 7.45pm, thursday 17 Jan 2019 –––––––––––––––––––– Jeff Blincow, a life long bird watcher & THE IVEL Biddenham Village Hall THURSDAYS friday 11th January 2019 Bunyan Meeting international traveller, presents Fenella Humphreys violin, Robert BEREAVEMENT 3T’S TODDLER Tickets £18, Students 18-24 £5, Under 18 interested in Family History?

Thompson piano £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 ‘Ethiopia – Highlands to Then come along to the next monthly talk ‘Yours and my need SUPPORT CENTRE Bedford school Music recital Hall GROUP for Plants’ HaS a LOVED OnE DiED? www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk the Rift Valley’. on Tickets £18, Students 18-24 £5, Under 18 perhaps we can help you at our £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 We are a (non-profit making) toddler

By Rob Brett drop-in centre at: –––––––––––––––––––– Group who meet at Centenary Hall, Suitable for Experts and novices, www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk ‘Flitton Cum Silsoe’ The Community Rooms, RSpB membership not essential.

Visitors very welcome 104 Bedford road, Kempston on –––––––––––––––––––– Baptist church, 24 London Road, THE SANDY by margaret Butt tuesday from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm Biggleswade SG18 8EB admission £5 per meeting – includes Entrance fee, group members £1 guest BEESTON WALK (term time only) Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon UKULELE GROUP £2 annual group membership £5 7.15 p.m. Drama Hall, Mark Raffle & refreshments Telephone: Carole or Jill on rutherford school, Wentworth Drive, FOR HEALTH Contact: Debbie on Meet every friday at the Baptist 07704 734225 for more information.

Bedford MK41 8PX –––––––––––––––––––– www.biddenhamgardenersassociation.org.uk We meet every monday at 9.00 a.m. by Chapel Hall, Bedford road, sandy.

• a place of friendship, compassion and 07975 –772-058 or the letter box at the junction of The 7pm till 9pm. members free, visitors £1. understanding.

–––––––––––––––––––– Crescent and The green. The walk is a Suzanne on 01234-857467.

IRISH CEILI AND

IAN GRIFFIN

• Fully trained bereavement support volunteers are always on hand to listen while you talk through your grief.

• Somewhere to meet others coping with bereavement issues.

• Come and make new friends

For more information on joining the group please email the group: Sandyukulelegroup1@gmail.com www.Sandyukulelegroup.com

–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– POTTON L ADIES SANDY CLUB ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY meets on the first tuesday of the month Founded in 2014 by residents of Sandy and surrounding areas, we are a group of keen astronomers of all abilities.

We meet on the first Thursday of every month at mamas Coffee Shop (High Street, Sandy) and have regular viewing sessions on the grounds of Sandye place academy.

You don’t need to own a telescope to join in. Club members are always willing to share their equipment and expertise, and if you become a member our club telescopes are available for hire for a small fee.

Wrap up warm and we’ll see you there!

–––––––––––––––––––– SANDY WALKS 4 HEALTH Sandy Walks 4 Health meet every Wednesday.

These are free short walks ofabout an hour, with a trained walk leader. no need to book; just turn up.

Walks start at 10am, meeting in SandyLibrary in the Town centre.

For more information contact: Cathy Bailey 01767 692182, or Jane Janaway 01767 691455, or Mike Fayers (Health walks manager) 01234 832619

at 7.30pm at Mill Lane Pavilion, Mill Lane, Potton. sG19 2PG

We have a range of speakers, a lunch club & numerous day trips.

Visitors are always welcome for £5, to include light refreshments.

–––––––––––––––––––– WIn:

PRIZE RAFFLE a brand new mulberry Handbag and other fantastic prizes!

In 2019 I will be running the London Marathon and raising funds In aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind

REgULaR WEEKLY WaLKS

Walks for beginners and those looking to improve Two regular weekly walks of 40 – 90 minutes

Wednesdays at 10.00am Walking with John and his team Dan albone Car park, Shortmead Street Sg18 0BQ

thursdays at 10.00am Walking with Rosario and his team from Stratton School, Eagle Farm Road Sg18 8JB

for tHose LooKInG to Do A serIous WALK of 5 MILes PLus: tuesday Afternoon at 2pm Booking essential

(This walk is not part of Walk 4 health and walkers walk at their own risk)

or contact steve at smraffle2019@gmail.com

Start points vary – phone or email Janette for details

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ stevesmarathonraffle

December, is a members only party.

We will then meet again on tuesday the 8th January 2019 – When membership fees will be due. the talk will be Barbuda, after the Hurricane by Gordon McCann.

We have a range of speakers, a lunch

–––––––––––––––––––– club & numerous day trips. Visitors are always welcome for £5, to include light refreshments.

MAYFLOWER 50+ SOCIAL CLUB –––––––––––––––––––– We meet 2-4 pm on Wednesdays at the Labour Hall, Crab Lane, and 2-4pm Fridays at St andrews Church - both have disabled access. We also run a lighthearted bingo 2-4pm at the Labour Hall on the 2nd & 4th monday of the month.

We play games, cards etc. or just socialise.

We have occasional speakers and outings.

Entrance £1.50 (plus £1 if bingo) and door-to-door minibus transport is available at £1.50 return. please contact iris on 01767 318434 or call or text Brian on mobile 07988 822678 or landline 01767 448954 BIGGLesWADe WeeKLY LunCH CLuB We meet every Wednesday 12-1.45 in the Labour Hall, Crab Lane to enjoy a hot 2 course meal and good company. Food is supplied by a local school. Door to door transport is available at £1.50 and the meal costs £5. mainly for over 50s.

For more details contact Shirley Legate on 01767 448954 or 07988 822678.

BIGGLESWADE WALK 4 HEALTH

for full details & to give your support, please visit:

–––––––––––––––––––– POTTON LADIES’ CLUB –––––––––––––––––––– meets on the first tuesday of the SANDY month at 7.30pm at Mill Lane Pavilion, Mill Lane, CONSERVATIVE Potton. sG19 2PG. BOWLING CLUB our next meeting on the 4th Our well-established and friendly club with one of the best greens in the county is situated behind the Conservative Club in Bedford Road.

We are always happy to welcome new members, whether experienced or new bowlers who will be offered coaching. for further details Phone 01767 680697

––––––––––––––––––––

CPRE

please join us for a fun

QUIZ EVENING

thursday 28th March 2019 the White Horse Pub, 84 newnham road, Bedford MK41 9PX from 7.30pm

Everyone very welcome

For more information please contact us on 01234 353331 Or email events@cprebeds.org.uk.

Walking with Janette: approx. 90 mins.

Janette sibley Tel: 07771 540117 email: janette@sibley.me.uk

Mike fayers Bedfordshire Health Walks manager, Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity Tel: 01234 832619 email: mikef@bedsrcc.org.uk The Old School, Cardington. mK44 3SX

–––––––––––––––––––– aLL SainTS paRiSH CHURCH KEmpSTOn

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 or Frances Leonard on 01234 852480

––––––––––––––––––––

first level gentle walk so we do about 30 – 40 minutes in the flat fields beyond Beeston green. i will walk as slowly as the slowest person needs. it’s a ‘just turn up’ walk. gillian Wilkes 07890 232685 grewilkes@gmail.com

––––––––––––––––––––

TENNIS FOR

BEGINNERS CHILDREN – ADULTS SENIORS EXPERIENCED PLAYERS Jack: 01767 692242 www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk

ALL WELCOME

–––––––––––––––––––– BLACK CRICKET KIDS CLUB 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.

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

Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm

CEnTEnaRY HaLL, behind Kempston Town Hall, Bedford Road For further information telephone: 01234 857011

Wednesdays 8pm to 10 pm

£2 per session – first evening free no partner required. Beginners welcome.

TIDDLYWINKS TODDLER PLAYGROUP

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

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

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

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 For further information contact Trevor on

01234 856040 or marian on 01234 855288

Kempston Constitution Club 196a Bedford Road, Kempston 3rd THURSDaY in the month 17 January 2019 The branch starts the year by welcoming Roy Fenton giving a presentation on

BEDFORD BRANCH

“North West in Black and White” Telephone: 01234 352014

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

www.bfhs.org.uk

–––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON AND DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY

the reading room, 1, Barkers Lane, Bedford.

Wednesdays from 7.30pm-10.00pm at Kempston east Methodist Church new members welcome

––––––––––––––––––––

brianwoodcock@btinternet.com

Ring pat 01234 308224 for more details.

Do Your BIns Go out More tHAn You? tHen LADIes CIrCLe Is for You!

Ladies Circle is a membership club for women aged 18 to 45 who want to make new friends, have lots of fun, do things t Whether you’re new to the Biggleswade area, or are just looking to broaden your social life. The group is a perfect way of getting more out of life. members include single and married women, those with children and those without, working and not working,everyone’s welcome to come along and just be themselves!

Upcoming events:

13th Dec – Christmas present wrapping evening

Email: biggleswadecircle@gmail.com Twitter: @BwadeCircle.

Facebook: Biggleswade Ladies Circle

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

KEMPSTON SENIOR –––––––––––––––––––– WORLD SHIP SOCIETY CITIZENS’ CLUB DanCing, WHiST, BingO

SET DANCING

We invite all stroke survivors & their carers to join our

IVEL STROKE CLUB Meetings are held at stonecroft, st swithins Way, sandy on the third Monday of each month 7.30pm.

Transport can be arranged.

Speakers, outings & entertainment througout the year.

please contact 01767 680503 for further imformation.

–––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

PRESENT POPULAR ENTERTAINER

IAN GRIFFIN IN CONCERT

WEDS 30 JANUARY 7.30 – 10.00pm TEA, COFFEE/BAR/RAFFLE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford

For further details contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or

BiDDEnHam gaRDEnERS aSSOCiaTiOn

tuesday 15th January 2019 at 7.30 Biddenham Village Hall

‘My Garden’ By the members

Visitors very welcome

admission £5 per meeting – includes Raffle & refreshments

www.biddenhamgardenersassociation.org.uk

–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– sat 12th Jan WREST PARK VOLUNTEER OPEN TABLE TOP SALE DAYS January 2019.

this will be held at Wrest Park in the Ante-Library of the Mansion House on saturday 19th January from 12 -2pm.

Would you like to be a part of an outstanding team?

Would you like to spend time in one of England’s most prestigious and fascinating gardens with a story that spans over 600 years?

Would you like to share your enthusiasm and love of history?

Would you like to meet like-minded people and try something new?

Then why not come and volunteer for English Heritage at Wrest park.

Whether it is welcoming and chatting to visitors or telling the stories of our unique house and garden, there are plenty of ways to get involved here at Wrest park. Come along to our open day and find out more about what’s involved and how you can help our visitors ‘Step into England’s Story’.

–––––––––––––––––––– TRINITY METHODIST CHURCH BIGGLESWADE 2019

sunday 6th January 10.30 Cafe style service led by Roz addington.

(Bring & Share lunch yet to be finalised) sunday 13th January 09.30 Rev. Dalwyn attwell this will be a communion service.

10.30 a,m Led by mr glynne Rowlands

sunday 20th January 10.30 led by Rev Dalwyn attwell communion and also annual Covenant service.

6.00p.m. informal service led by Rev. Silas Wood, Trinity Band to accompany.

sunday 27th January nO SERViCE at TRiniTY but a joint service at Sandy methodist together with Beeston methodist.

Christ the King Parish Hall

Harrowden road, Bedford MK42 0sP 9am to noon. Entry 50p

Refreshments available,

Tables £5 - must be prebooked.

For information call on 01234 965497 friday 25th Jan

AFTERNOON VINTAGE TEA

Christ the King Parish Hall

Harrowden road, Bedford MK42 0sP 2pm to 4pm

admission £4 - Tea, home-made cake and dancing (optional) For information call 01234 404563

–––––––––––––––––––– SanDY HiSTORiCaL SOCiETY friday 25th January 7.30pm

stonecroft Hall, st swithins Way, sandy, sG19 1BB

admission £2.50 including refreshments members & Students free

For further details contact 01767 680171

–––––––––––––––––––– THE WiLDLiFE TRUST - BEDFORD LOCaL gROUp

‘Conservation Agriculture’

an illustrated talk by Brian Sims

Wednesday 9th January 2019 - Meeting at 7-15 pm for 7-30 pm start Priory Methodist Church Hall, newnham Avenue Bedford MK41 9QJ plenty of parking available in Church car park. no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated.

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

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

Registered Charity No 307534

The Shuttleworth Collection & Swiss Garden W W W. S H U T T L E W O R T H . O

RG

Scan the QR code for our Collection video

Scan the QR code for our Swiss Garden video

SHUTTLEWORTH, OLD WARDEN, BEDFORDSHIRE SG18 9EP - 01767 627927

Shuttleworth is a visitor attraction with lots to offer for all ages. Our Swiss Garden has 13 listed structures, a woodland sculpture walk, and resident peacocks and ducks. It’s a perfect outdoor space for all the family to enjoy, from exploring its historic features and lovely planting schemes. Children’s trails run throughout the year, each with a sticker to collect.

The Collection, adjacent to the garden, is a treasure trove of airworthy vintage aircraft from 1909-1950, agricultural exhibits, and classic cars, motorcycles, bicycles and vintage buses. Flying displays featuring these working take place May-October and include entry to The Swiss Garden.

Events and family activities run throughout the year. We have a children’s play area, on-site restaurant with kids menu and meal deals, free wi , a Visitor Centre with gift shop and free parking. Groups are welcome! Free admission for under 5’s.

DAILY ADMISSION: www.shuttleworth.org/book-a-ticket

28 —

JANUARY 3, 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

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quarry theatre p

music a

LOL (Ladies of Laughter) with Noreen Khan

The Ouse Valley Singles Club – traditional first show of the year

LOL (Ladies of Laughter) with noreen Khan comes to The Quarry Theatre, Bedford!

Join noreen Khan (BBC asian network) as she hosts a night of comedy with some of the UK’s favourite female acts.

7.30pm Friday February 1

Live at Bedford Esquires 8pm Saturday January 5 The Ouse Valley Singles Club are no strangers to the Bedford music Scene, Local boys (and gal) started performing around 2009 as a two piece Skiffle band and steadily evolved into a five piece that most local music lovers know and love today.

However, if you are not familiar with The OVSC and you are wondering what or Who they are well, here’s a bit of spiel about them: The OVSC are a five piece band from the rather cosmopolitan market town of Bedford that use sounds and traditions of 1950s Skiffle combined with the energy of punk and a splash of Rub n dub Reggae to relay hilarious Folk-like story-telling within their rather infectious songs, often crossing the parameters of what is deemed to be socially acceptable. in doing this, they have created a truly original and highly entertaining genre that has been dubbed (by them) as ‘new Wave Skiffle’. Their songs and videos, (including girl From the Fens, milf Hunter, Spunky

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Good Dog mum’s promised him that bike so even when school or homelife bites, he knows to keep his chin up, his head down and his shirt clean. no harsh word, no sudden push to the ground will distract him from growing up to be a good man. Because in the end, everyone who’s good gets what they deserve. Don’t they? good dog - set during the early noughties - tells the story of growing up in a multi-cultural community, and the everyday injustices that drive people to take back control.

Delicately observed and fearlessly told by writer arinze Kene (netflix’s Crazyhead, Eastenders, Channel 4’s Youngers, West End smash girl From the north Country, and misty at Bush Theatre), good dog embarks on its second national tour following its acclaimed premiere in spring 2017. “good dog is theatre at its most striking” tHe reVIeWs HuB

7.30pm Tues February 5

Dave, River great Ouse and the East northants anthem ‘From Rushden with Love’) have given them a pretty strong online presence and gained a massive following of lovely loyal fans and a semi… a semi-cult status in and around the East anglian / East midlands region.

Their first show of the year at Esquires has now become a bit of a tradition on the Bedford music scene. it started around four years

ago when as a three piece of Tim (Luke and vocals), amy (Bass and Vocals and Uncle Sam (Washboard and Raggamuffin mC/Toasting) were asked if they fancied doing a last minute impromptu gig in The Bar at Esquires as it was usually empty the first weekend of the new Year after Xmas and they packed it out.

This has now become a regular event in the Bedford music scene,

and moved upstairs to the main Stage due to the demand in tickets (selling out every time).

This year they are keeping it cosy and limiting the number of tickets available by playing in the downstairs area of Holy moly’s this is going to be a rather special night and one not to be missed!

Tickets from Esquires Bar, Slide Record Store & mario’s Hair Design as well as online from Seetickets.

The Best of Wham!

Bedford Corn Exchange Friday 18th January 2019

a ‘Fantastic’ new show featuring the best of george, andrew, pepsi and Shirlie with sensational vocals, choreography, costumes and an awesome live band.

Can it really be 37 years since george michael and andrew Ridgeley formed one of the most enduring pop groups of the 80s? in four short years WHam! sold more than 28 million records, topping the charts with three albums, four number one singles and eleven top ten hits. They featured in the Live aid concert of 1985 and were the first western pop group to ever tour in China. Their impact and influence on the 80s era and music today really cannot be over emphasised. The Best of WHam! Show includes all those hits, a few B side favourites and a couple of early george

michael bonus songs. This fun-loving, vibrant, megamix tribute to the pop sensation of the 80s will be loved by ‘Young guns’ of all ages, so come along to the ‘Club Tropicana’ (*Sorry.

Drinks not free.)

Tickets are £20 in advance from Bedford Corn Exchange www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk or in person from the box office in the Harpur Suite.

Luke Jermay: Intuition intuition is a strange thing and Luke Jermay is even stranger. Building on his acclaimed debut show ‘Sixth Sense’ entertainer Luke Jermay is back and better than ever with a brand new interactive stage show jam packed with phenomenal jaw dropping demonstrations of intuition, telepathy and prediction; your mind will be read, your choices will be predicted and your future will be revealed.

This will be a unique experience that is funny, entertaining, emotional, controversial, uplifting and insightful that you will never forget!

7.30pm Thurs February 7

Looking For A Traditional Village Pub In The Centre Of Bedford?

Then Look No Further!

Recently refurbished, The Castle serves a large selection of Cask Ale & Ciders, Wines, Homemade Pub Fayre & Fresh Co ee.

Court Yard Garden & Car Park 5 Separate En-suite Letting Rooms from only £70 a night

What’s On Pie Night Thursday 10 January Thursday 7 February Thursday 14 March

Steak and Gourmet Burger Night Thursday 24 January Thursday 21 February Thursday 28 March MAIN MENU ALSO AVAILABLE From 6.30pm. Booking is advised

Open Mic Night Every Monday from

7 January Hosted by Mat Roberts

6 O’Clock record club 6 - 9pm Hosted By Pete Burridge

Tuesday 22 January

Tr aditional Home-m ade Sunday Lunch

Live Music

Adults £9.95 Child £5.95 (under 12’s)

by Dave & Cli Hanson From 7.30pm

(reduced main menu also available)

Sunday 27 January

BOOK NOW

Valentine’s Day THURSDAY 14 FEBRUARY

FOOD SERVED Monday to Friday 12 noon to 2.30 & 6.30 to 9.00 Saturday 12 noon to 3 Sunday 12 noon to 4pm 17 NEWNHAM STREET, BEDFORD, BEDFORDSHIRE MK40 3JR T: 01234 353295 E: info@castlebedford.co.uk www.CastleBedford.co.uk CastleBedford

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out & about

To advertised to 60,000 homes in central and north Beds call 07724 905406 !

13th January 2019 – Thanks Giving Service at Dunstable Priory January 2019 – Centenary Baker of the Year launch 11th March 2019 – An Afternoon with… Dame Stella Rimington 29th April 2019 - Centenary Council Meeting with Christine Walkden 16th May 2019 - Old Tyme Musical Hall Evening at Stewatby 14 August 2019 - Celebratory Centenary Afternoon Tea, The Sculpture Gallery, Woburn th Sept th Bi 27 2 7th S Se Septembe Septemb Septem Septe September ep 2 20 – Bedf 201 2019 B Be Bedfordshir Bedfordshi Bedfordsh Bedfords Bedford Bedfor Bedfo Bedfordshire ed F Fe Fed Fede Feder Federa Federat Federati Federatio Federation Federation’ Federation’s 1 10 100th B Birt Birthd Birth Birthday Birthda ir Flower Festival and Pimms Evening at WI House and a Peal of Bells will ring out across the County

4th October 2019 - Centenary Night at the Proms 21st October 2019 – Meets & Entertains

to advertise to over 60,000 homes in Bedfordshire just call 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

30th November 2019 – Christmas Craft Fair 2nd – 5th December 2019 – Christmas at WI House !

Look out for more information in the mailing and the W-eye

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 2019

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sport

FOOTBALL – FA CUP

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SWIMMING – FLITWICK DOLPHINS

EAGLES SOAR IN FA CUP COMP’

by Mark Wood

WeMBLeY could still beckon for four of our county teams after a tremendous run of results in fA competitions.

Bedford town shone on Tuesday night with an incredible 7-0 Fa Trophy first round replay victory over national League opponents aldershot Town. injury-ravaged Shots, who play three divisions above the Eagles, relied on their academy starlets because of injuries, but they were blown away in the rout at the new Eyrie.

Braces from Dan Walker (46 and 84) and James peters (45 and 90), plus strikes from Dean Dummett (15), Jermain Osei (50) and Connor Furlong (68) earned the Eagles a memorable victory in front of 485 fans at the new Eyrie and earned them a shot at big name Chesterfield who currently sit in 20th spot in the national League, just one place above the relegation zone.

Winners in the last 32 tie will pick up £7,000 in prize money, with Bedford set to visit the Spireites on Saturday, January 12.

Bedford’s official Twitter account tweeted: “it’s easy to compliment the opposition after a result like that, but aldershot sent their academy side because of their crippling injury list, and although the experience

of the Bedford players shone through, the youngsters of aldershot made us battle the entire 90 mins.”

They are joined in the second round by Biggleswade town who overcame Wealdstone 2-1 and will travel to national League high-flyers aFC Fylde and their impressive mill Farm home.

Bedford, meanwhile, have signed Tony mendy from Evo-Stik Southern premier South side Beaconsfield Town. The 25-year-old has scored seven goals in 18 appearances for Beaconsfield already this season and should be included in the squad for Saturday’s visit to Sutton Coldfield Town.

Fledgling Biggleswade fC are also making waves after defeating SmL premier Division championship rivals Tring athletic on penalties in their third round replay in the Fa Vase. They will host Stowmarket Town in a last 32 tie on Saturday, January 5, with £1,875 in prize money up for grabs.

League One promotion hopefuls Luton town, meanwhile, will be in action in the third round of the Fa Cup when they take on Championship side Sheffield Wednesday for the first time ever in the competition. The two sides will meet at Hillsborough on Saturday, January 5, with the game set to kick off at 12.30pm. The Hatters have been given an initial allocation of 2,177 seats with a full allocation of 4,000 available.

RUGBY – BEDFORD BLUES

Finishing the year on a high THE end of the year has been a busy and successful one for Flitwick Dolphins Swimming Club. On Saturday 8th December the national arena League team travelled to

West Bromwich for a cracking final round battle against some very strong teams.

The national League is extremely competitive with the

SPORTS AWARDS 2018

Blues off to play top of the table Carnegie

by Mark Wood

a QUaRTER-FinaL trip to Yorkshire Carnegie is Bedford Blues’ reward for progressing to the last eight in the inaugural Championship Cup. a 17-8 victory over Hartpury ensured a third place finish for Bedford in pool Three and a trip to pool One table-toppers Carnegie who are currently languishing at the foot of the Championship table.

Director of Rugby mike Rayer said: “We have always said that we are taking this competition very seriously so we are delighted to have gotten through to the quarter-finals. “people may look at Yorkshire Carnegie’s league position and think this is a great draw for us, but Carnegie are on the up as their recent performances have shown.

Five wins out of six in the cup is a fantastic return and will be a huge boost for all of their players.

“Trips to Yorkshire are never easy but knock-out rugby is always great fun so we are really looking forward to the challenge ahead.”

The game will take place over the weekend of February 1-3 with the exact date and times to be confirmed.

However, the Blues will be without influential hooker Charlie Clare for their next three competitive games after he was cited for striking an opponent with his elbow in Saturday’s victory at Hartpury.

Clare pleaded guilty to the offence and received a three-week

ban this week, meaning he will miss Saturday’s Championship game at Richmond, the competitive Boxing Day ‘friendly’ against near-neighbours ampthill and the home league visit of promotion-seeking Ealing Trailfinders. He will be eligible to return at Jersey Reds on Saturday, January 19. panel chair Richard Whittam QC commented: “The player accepted the charge on the basis that it was his forearm that made contact rather than the point of the elbow which was accepted by the chairman.

“He was extremely candid about his actions and expressed genuine remorse for acting entirely out of character. He had an exemplary record and therefore was entitled to full mitigation down from the six week entry point.

“He is suspended for a period of three weeks. This includes the Boxing Day fixture against ampthill & District which the chairman deemed meaningful after hearing submissions from the club that it was a full ticketed fixture, played fully under the World Rugby laws and that an RFU professional referee would be officiating.” ampthill are currently riding high in national League One in fourth place, just six points off the top spot. Their impressive squad includes former Blues Soane Tonga’uiha and James pritchard, plus star names like mamma molitika, aleki Lutui and Kevin Barrett. Tickets are available online with a £5 discount, costing just £10.

THE Bedford Sports awards has become a key date in the local sporting calendar, with athletes, coaches and clubs all gathered to celebrate the dedication, hard work and successes over the year.

The event, organised by Bedford Borough Council, was held on monday 10th December at the Bedford Corn Exchange. Over 90 nominations were received across ten categories, with a panel of 18 judges deciding on this year’s final winners.

Judging takes into account the huge diversity in the size, profile and resources available to our local clubs, individuals and teams to ensure that all nominations have an equal chance of winning, with specified criteria used for each award.

The adults Sports personality of the Year went to alex Edwards for his achievements in Freestyle Kayak, representing great Britain at the highest level. Bedford

Hockey Club girls’ Under 16s won the Sports Team of the Year, having become the most successful junior team in the club’s history after winning the Tier 2 midlands area finals competition in april this year.

Cllr Sarah-Jayne gallagher, portfolio for Leisure and Culture at Bedford Borough Council said: “Congratulations to all the nominees and winners of this year’s Sports awards. These awards have been running locally for over 20 years, and it’s always fantastic to see the range of nominations that come in and hear about the commitment and achievements of local athletes, teams, clubs and coaches.”

To see the full list of nominees and winners for this year’s Sports awards visit www.bedford.gov.uk/sportsawards. if you would like to be kept up-to-date with sports news, sign up to the regular Bedford Sport ebulletin by visiting www.bedford.gov.uk/stayconnected

fastest swimmers from the best teams in the country competing over 3 rounds in October, november and December. Flitwick are part of the West midlands League and this year have travelled to Daventry, Worcester and West Bromwich over the 3 rounds.

Dolphins finished in 4th place in a nail biting final leg with Derby phoenix taking the top spot. Overall this gave the squad a very respectable mid table position in Division 2.

The weekend of Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th December saw a great turnout for Flitwick at the Central Bedfordshire and Biggleswade SC ‘Christmas Cracker’ open meet. This was a competitive yet fun event with competitors as young as 9-years-old racing for festive style medals. it was also the final opportunity for swimmers to gain qualification times for the forthcoming Bedfordshire County Championships in early 2019. it was a hugely successful event with many FDSC swimmers winning the sought after medals. many county qualifying times were also gained by the club’s swimmers.

Twins Ruby and Shannon Ryall, who have just celebrated their 13th birthday, both managed to achieve the county times they were aiming for with both girls giving their best ever performance.

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FOOTBALL – BIGGLESWADE TOWN

Waders’ holiday match reports

by Mike Draxler

BUiLDBaSE Fa TROpHY 3RD QUaLiFYing GLouCester CItY..................1 BIGGLesWADe toWn .............3

OVER a hundred miles to Evesham, where gloucester city share the facility. Sunday? We are not used to playing on the rest day but what a super Sunday it turned out to be. gloucester from the national league South certainly a challenge.

The Waders came out with the intention of having a celebratory ride back home as they took the game to the home side from the off. in every department we were sharper, quicker and wanted more to feel the win and the opportunity to be in the hat for the next round. Tommy Smith immense, he was always in front of his attacker and his brilliance was a feature of the game. along side him the calm Longe-King flanked by Walster and perry. all made a magnificent contribution keeping gloucester attackers very sterile of ideas and attempts at goal. With Kieron Forbes suspended Jack Bradshaw took over the captain’s role bossing from just in front of the back line. across the middle mcnamara, Clark, nwaboukei and Ball probing, running and turning defenders.

Upfront the ever available and moving Joe White. no mention for Donkin for most, a spectator with no meaningful shot to stop. Such was the dominance of our boys in green. as early as 12 White had the ball in the net from a slick pass from matt Ball, disappointment as he was adjudged offside.

But, and you know there is always a but, the writing was on the wall. We waited till 39 when a very similar move involving Ball and White ended with the ball in the net.

1-0. great time to score and we went close again before the interval. after the break, gloucester picked up the momentum and seemed more interested in progressing in the competition as the half time motivation riled them into action. Despair! as matt Ball became provider again finding peter Clark at the far post on 48 to net a second for the jubilant Waders diluting the homes sides new resolve. The game went quiet for long periods as the dreams took over and despite gloucester pressing as Biggleswade were forced back no direct attempt at Donkin arrived. gloucester’s goal when it came on 74 was a mistake by the immaculate Tommy Smith who caught the ball underpowered back to Sam Donkin, with andre Wright nipping in to set up a nervy last 15. nervy? no as the Waders returned to the offensive and pressed back with the ball cleared off the home line from White and Clark.

90+1 arrived and so did the dancing Solomon nwaboukei, as the twitter says”beating a few” before squaring to Clark, again at the far post to break the hearts of the home fans.

Wow it was a privilege to be witness to such a performance, one of many for me but it is up there with the best from the past. i really feel this squad is growing and maturing with every game.

BIGGLesWADe toWn ............1 stourBrIDGe...........................2

THE super human efforts on Sunday at gloucester rebounded back on the Waders last evening as two games in 48 hours took its toll. Stourbridge and a few others are the last team

you would want to play under such circumstances. Only the two or three players not involved on Sunday showed a lasting energy for the 90 minutes. it started well with the Waders showing the early attacking pace with Solomon nwaboukei testing the keeper early on. 17 in and a corner from the right saw Stourbridge 14 Stuart pierpoint deflect the ball into his own net. Biggleswade continued to press but with no rewards as the tired legs began to show. at the interval 1-0 was a fragile lead.

Out for the second period and Stourbridge began to play and feel that something was in the game for them.

Debate the penalty, wont change the decision and greg mills levelled the score with a well struck spot kick. The Waders had the ball in the net within minutes only to be adjudged offside. This may have been the final straw as the home side were pushed further back with only the odd sorte upfield. On 90 a clever free kick to the right and just outside the box gave Stourbridge all 3 points with no time for the Waders to recover.

BIGGLesWADe toWn ............4 ALVeCHurCH............................2

WiTH places in the starting 11 at a premium, the Waders bounced back with renewed energy after the midweek defeat to Stourbridge. From the very first minute to the last the boys in green chased and harried their opponents and ran out worthy winners.

Just by looking from my vantage point, you could tell the boys were very much in the right gear. as early as 3 the ever dancing Solomon nwaboukei was down the left flank to cross the ball for Joe White to head in at the near post. Ball and Bell were getting at alvechurch and both had chances to improve the score. alvechurch were not taking this lying down but with the shooting boots left at home, high and wide was the best they could offer. 31 in and the ball finds matt Ball wide left to fire in from a tight angle. all going well and the half time break approaching. a doubtful corner, yet to see the video, was given and with our defenders dreaming of the half time orange, were asleep as Josh marsh stole in to grab one back. at 2-1 the interval arrived. not party to the half time team talk, whatever was said played a part in a dominated second half. The ball being sprayed around and tormentor Bradley Bell was taking his opportunity to shine.

Bell made the afternoon his by netting in the 65th minute from a Lucas perry long throw, headed on for Bell to hook the ball in from close range.

The pick of the goals a 3 man move involving peter Clark, the bundle of energy in the midfield, on to Joe White who threaded a ball through to matt Ball to round the keeper and complete a brace on the day. at 4-1 it looked comfortable. alvechuch started to press and another corner on 82 was converted

by Luke Yates unmarked at the near post. alvechuch upped the pace but game over when alvechurch 2 Josh Ezewele was given a second yellow and the visitors admitted the end to a very, very good performance from Biggleswade.

There are a lot of tough games coming up. next its needham market flying high, this before a more local derby away to Royston, also doing well. The Christmas period with Kings Lynn, Hitchin and aFC Rushden. mmm a feast of foot-

ball, nicely sandwiching the Fa Trophy with Wealdstone. Up the Waders.

BIGGLesWADe toWn ............2 neeDHAM MArKet ................0

anD it’s anticipation. not only from the spectators but the team, inclusive of all. The bar has been set high this season with Lee allinson coming in and bringing young exciting players to the Langford Road. We cant always reach the dizzy heights but this was a solid direct performance against a team flying high in the league.

The comment i got at half time was, “wow that’s direct football” and that was right. From the off the bubbling Waders moved towards the needham goal with purpose and menace. Joe White ever looking for the ball, matt Ball and Bradley Bell were all causing problems with the speed of attack. ably backed up by peter Clark and Solomon nwaboukei who had a remarkable game considering he was involved in a traffic accident only an hour before kick off. Kieron Forbes quietly efficient filling in where required. it certainly didn’t impede Solomon’s dancing and he was everywhere on the pitch winning the ball and creating.

Chances were few first 45 with only the front 3 having attempts at goal. Lee allinson felt the game flat but the sheer pace gave the exciting impression. at half time 0-0 and it looked like a no-score draw all the way but. and you know there is always a but. Out for the second period with renewed passion as Biggleswade applied the pressure. Ding, on 53 Bradley Bell pops up at the far post to hook in again after a Tom Smith flick from a corner.

Heads in front was good and the free flow passing was taking command of the game. needham had their moments but little mentioned Sam Donkin did his stuff and needham 10 fluffed his lines when easier to score. Changes came to the Waders as Ball and Clark made way for mcnamara and Kirkpatrick. it just appears that whatever combo is on the field it works.

DOng, 84 gone and after a long throw from Lucas perry a flick back by a defender and Bradley Bell pops up with another. That is 3 goals in 2 games, impressive. Waders ran out winners but needham made it tough on the night.

roYston toWn.......................4 BIGGLesWADe toWn ............6

CERTainLY for the spectators a goal fest, but for the defence management perhaps a nightmare.

Running out winners at the end, the Waders deserved the three points making it three on the bounce.

The boys in green started so well with matt Ball teasing the home defence with his curling crosses aided by the wind blowing down the slope. But, and you know there is always a but, Royston scored with their first attack on 12 with a ball whipped in for James potton to head home.

Back at the other end and a mere two minutes later Bradley Bell got on the end of yet another cross to even the game up.

Waders pressed but it was potton again with a well taken free kick that beat Sam Donkin at the far post on 19. Three minutes on and yet another corner where David LongeKing headed back towards goal for Joe White to guide the ball to the back of the net. Stability arrived with the Waders making all the play. nwaboukei dominant in the midfield

making darting runs and breaking up the play. all looked set for 2-2 come half time but another rasping shot from Royston 6 Josh Castiglione caught the waders again to send the home side in with the advantage. now kicking up the slope ball control was eased and no longer overhit.

The dancing nwaboukei was felled in the box after by-passing several defenders. matt Ball with no nerves at all to level the score on 50.

Waders played some superb football spreading the play over the complete width of the pitch.

Yet another corner found new boy Jordan gent beat all with a timely flick to put the Waders in the driving seat for the first time on 57.

Joe White beat the keeper on 68 to put daylight between the scores at last. Royston now took up the batten and pressed hard with some desperate clearances, Biggleswade held firm until Royston captain Daniel Braithwaite scored with a headed corner on 86.

Royston pressed on trying to gain a point at least.

The Waders continued to play fluent football and a confused situation as nwaboukei again doing his magic steps beat the keeper but the ball did not cross the line. all credit to alistair Wilson, the referee, who had seen an infringement on Solomon to award another penalty. generous to a fault, matt Ball gave the kick to Joe White who made no mistake from the spot to complete his hattrick. another win for the impressive Waders. next up County cup action against Crawley green and Saturday Wealdstone in the 1st round proper of the Fa Trophy. Kick off 1500 hours. Up the Waders..

Fa BUiLDBaSE TROpHY 1ST ROUnD BIGGLesWADe toWn ............2 WeALDstone ...........................1

anD it came to be. The weather was atrocious, the football brilliant.

One of the biggest matches in the club’s history proved a glory day as Lee allinson’s team took on opposition from the Conference south. it was raining from the off not only from the dark clouds but from the guys in green who pushed Wealdstone back into their own half for much of the first period. Losing David Longe-King before kick off was a body blow but in came Ben Walster at fullback with Jack Bradshaw moving to centre back.

With Tom Smith and Lucas perry, these four guys kept the Wealdstone front line bottled up and allowed the Waders to push on en-mass. an early chance for peter Clark on 10 found himself one to one with the keeper. Wealdstone keeper Jonathan north did well to smother the ball. 6 on and another change as Clark had to be replaced after pulling a hamstring. On comes Lucas Kirkpatrick to fill the gap in midfield.

On 30 a Walster corner found Joe White who flicked the ball into the top of the net to give the boys in green the advantage. Joy turned to despair within 2 as Wealdstone were awarded a penalty.

Christian Smith made no mistake which was Wealdstone’s first meaningful shot. The rest of the half was all green, sensing an upset Biggleswade kept to the game plan pressing Wealdstone and preventing any sort of coherent play. at half time, the players soaked and cold the relief of the changing room immense only marred by having to come back out again.

The second 45 saw Wealdstone at least try and recover some street cred, but with shooting boots left back in west London, high and wide was all that could be achieved.

Waders front line were playing decent football on a pitch that was getting wetter and wetter with every minute. The ball was starting to hold up in the wet patches. north between the posts for Wealdstone pulled off two world class saves from Bell and White to keep his side in the game. as time wore on and the replay looking more and more likely, former Wealdstone player matt Ball fired in from the edge of the box, avoiding all in a very crowded penalty area. Wealdstone heads dropped and with 5 minutes plus to go tried to conjure some magic. not their day as the Waders defended deep to protect the lead. at the end jubilant scenes to win through to the 2nd round of this competition.

LoWestoft ...............................2 BIGGLesWADe toWn .............1

iT’S honest and refreshing to watch the Lee allinson after match interview. Having watched it twice it has changed this report from the highs and lows of football. The high, Wealdstone last Saturday, the low tonight where the early play was as good but tailed off dramatically in the second half. no excuses offered and no quarter given by Lee. Simply not good enough. it all started so well with the home keeper unsure as back passes came his way. Once too often as he was caught by Kieron Forbes pinching the ball only to be hauled down. matt Ball made no mistake from the spot. Waders continued to press and with the aid of the wind kept the ball in the opposition half. Chances came but went with no increase in the score. Half time and a break from the very persistent rain.

Out for the second 45 and all change. Biggleswade normally so good against the wind were pinned back up against their own lines as Lowestoft increased the pressure.

Hero or villain? Connor Deeks Lowestoft 4 did both. On 53 he got his head to a ball the Waders defence failed to clear to level the score. With the introduction of Jonny mcnamara for Lucas Kirkpatrick, some interesting play between him and matt Ball found the ball in the back of the net only to be ruled offside.

Deeks again stole in on 69 to repeat his earlier move and headed past the defence.

BIGGLesWADe toWn .............1 KInG's LYnn ...............................2

OVER the season you would hope that the “decision” that goes against will even itself out and i am sure it does, it just hurts on the day. a very expectant crowd as King's Lynn became the first team we will have played twice in this season's league fixtures and much improved from the opening game of the season.

With the addition of a new manager and a couple of players. Lynn have steadily climbed into a play off place after a shaky start.

The first 45 produced not too many goal attempts but did show that the addition of Chris Henderson in the Lynn midfield was pulling the strings. Waders their normal adventurous selves but not coming too close to target. new loanee from Stevenage Donovan makoma in for the holidaying Soloman showed his class fitting in well to the team he had only met 60 minutes earlier. Half time and 0-0 all to look forward to.

Out for the second 45 and a different purpose to the visitors as their approach play became more

threatening. But and as you know there is always a but. it was the Waders who took the lead on 55 as Bradley Bell outpaced his marker to put the ball into the box for Joe White to add another to his tally. 3 minutes on and one of those controversial decisions. Henderson picked the ball up outside the box and shot which hit the underside of the bar, the referee was happy no goal. His assistant waving furiously signalled a goal. mayhem ensued, one wag shouting “you must be having a giraffe”, London talk for laugh. But it was no laughing matter as the goal was given. The Biggleswade players looked deflated, having worked the advantage to have it ripped away was heart breaking. Recovery was slow and by the time the Waders had got back into their stride Lynn had scored again through adam marriot netting from close range. Despite a flurry of substitutes Biggleswade could not get that elusive equaliser and had to start the Christmas matches with a second defeat in a week.

HItCHIn toWn..........................0 BIGGLesWADe toWn .............2

THE home side came out looking to take the game to the Waders with immense pressure during the early part of the match. Sam Donkin had to be at his very best to keep out the rampaging Hitchin team. Sam was at his very best on the floor and in the air as he kept the score at 0-0. after the initial onslaught, the Waders settled and gave back in equal measures. Hitchin 11 alfie Cue was giving Jack Bradshaw a torrid time down the left flank as he continually got in behind the defence.

Opportunities were few as the two sides went head to head. no surprise to go in level at half time as neither side were prepared to yield local bragging rights.

Out for the second 45 and all change as the Waders management team enthused the boys to press higher which changed the game to Wader offensive with Hitchin being forced backwards. 6 minutes in and an unwell matt Ball was replaced by Liam Brooks to add to the Biggleswade fire power. although i thought at the time Brooks was a strange replacement, dividends were paid within 6 minutes when Liam got on the end of a crossbox ball from Jonny mcnamara to give Biggleswade the lead on 57. Hitchin desparate to repair the damage tried to move forward but Smith, LongeKing, Bradshaw and Walster along with man of the match Donkin held their resolve, thou shalt not pass. as the game entered its final phase Liam Brooks was hauled down by home keeper michael Johnson to win the Waders a penalty. a very White Christmas as Joe made no mistake with his spot kick. Tempers rose and a series of bookings followed but not so the score as the Waders ran out winners again at the Topsfield.

DIAMonDs...................................3 BIGGLesWADe toWn .............3

JUST as we all thought the points were on their way back to Biggleswade the drama unfolded to feel like a loss but winning a point at high flying Rushden would have sufficed before kick off.

The anomalies of the fixtures pitted the top six teams in the division against each other with all games ending in draws.

The first 45 at Hayden Road was a fairly mundane affair with the Waders having the better of possession but not creating many opportunities to gain the advantage. a lively Jonny mcnamara aided by Joe White kept the pressure on the

Continued on page 35

34 —

JANUARY 3, 2019 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

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FOOTBALL – HATTERS’ HOLIDAY ROUND-UP by Mark Wood

Steely performance puts Luton in second place LeAGue one CoVentrY CItY.....1 (0) Luton toWn ..........2 (1) HiSTORY-maKing Luton Town exorcised their Coventry hoodoo by claiming only a fourth-ever win there with a 2-1 victory on Saturday.

Despite conceding a penalty at the death, goals from matty pearson and Coventry boy James Collins ensured there were euphoric scenes at the Ricoh arena as the Hatters made it five straight wins on the unhappiest of hunting grounds. another dogged and determined

victory from steely Town kept them in second place and ensured they have been beaten just once in 17 league and Fa Cup games heading into the busy Christmas period.

Having lost 27, drawn eight and only won three of their previous meetings there, Luton made light of the driving rain and swirling wind with another terrific display. it was a scrappy opening and it wasn’t until the 10thminute that the first bit of quality arrived when Elliot Lee teased the ball to the far post but Harry Cornick could only turn the ball wide.

Town should have taken the lead five minutes later when a long ball forward enabled Cornick to run clear on goal but he could only drag

wastefully wide. more pressure saw Sonny Bradley head over from a corner before some desperate defending from the Hatters kept it all square. a fortuitous rebound enabled Jack grimmer to angle in a dangerous cross and Jordy Hiwula thought he’d scored before before James Shea scooped it off the line with Coventry convinced they’d scored although it was impossible to tell if the ball had crossed the line.

Quality football was tough in the conditions but the Hatters did grab the lead with seven minutes of the half left after a dangerous Lee freekick had been headed behind.

James Justin chipped a wonderful corner to the far post that swirled

in the wind as Bradley’s powerful downward header was stabbed home from close range by pearson as the jubilant Hatters celebrated ecstatically.

Cornick’s low strike was then easy for Lee Burge on the stroke of half time as the Town deservedly led.

Luton made a bright start to the second half with glen Rea curling an early effort over before City had a wonderful chance to level. a dangerous cross found Johnson Clarke-Harris at the far post and his header from point-blank range was brilliantly saved by Shea. an offside-looking Cornick almost got in behind before a powerful Lee cross picked out the lurking

bewithdelicious!

Collins to thunder home in off the bar from close range in front of the hordes of delirious away fans to make it 2-0.

Lee then flicked over from a Justin free-kick before Coventry enjoyed a spell of pressure with Clarke-Harris unable to turn home from close range. more brilliance from Lee caused havoc in the City defence and resulted in another corner from which Justin picked out Rea at the far post and his powerful strike was headed for the top corner before it was somehow headed off the line. great harrying by Lee saw him rob the City defence and, with the keeper out of position, the ball ran to Collins but his shot was well blocked when it could have been three. more trickery from Lee saw him burst into the box with six minutes left and go down under a challenge, but nothing was given before his low effort was well held with five minutes to go.

With Coventry pressing Shea pulled off a blinding save to throw himself to his left and palm away Dom Hyam’s powerful header to

keeper Town’s two-goal lead intact.

High Luton pressing saw Collins slipped clean through with three minutes to go as Tom Davies cynically chopped him down, but he was only shown a yellow card as Justin’s free-kick flew well over. miscommunication between sub Dan potts and Shea and a rush of blood to the head for the keeper saw him foul Luke Thomas at the death and, although Clark-Harris smashed home the resulting penalty, it mattered not as Town sealed a memorable and rare victory. sky Blues: Lee Burge, Jack grimmer, Jordan Willis (Dom Hyam 65), Tom Davies, Liam Kelly (C), Jordy Hiwula (Conor Chaplin 65), Junior Brown, Johnson Clarke-Harris, Tom Bayliss (Reise allasani 78), Luke Thomas, Jordan Shipley. Subs not used: Corey addai, Brandon mason, michael Doyle, abu Ogogo.

Hatters: James Shea, James Justin, Sonny Bradley, matty pearson, Jack Stacey, Elliot Lee, andrew Shinnie (Dan potts 88), Harry Cornick, glen Rea (C), pelly Ruddock mpanzu (Danny Hylton 73), James Collins. Subs not used: marek Stech, Luke Berry, Jorge grant, Kazenga Lua Lua, alan Sheehan.

12,559 (Luton 2,598).

Slimming World Seven in a row! sCuntHorPe unIteD .....0 (0) Luton toWn ......................2 (1)

w

ViCTORY made it a magnificent seven wins in a row for Luton as they claimed a battling 2-0 Boxing Day win at out-of-sorts Scunthorpe United.

Top of the form table Town were outplayed by their struggling rivals in the first half but led thanks to andrew Shinnie’s accurate strike and made sure of victory when Harry Cornick stabbed home a rebound early in the second half as the Hatters maintained their fantastic run and closed the gap on portsmouth at the summit to just a single point.

Ben El-mhanni volleyed a brilliant chance over at the far post before Funso Ojo put in a great cross for Lee novak to glance over the bar. and against the run of play Town took the lead on 36 minutes following a great advantage from referee martin Coy which allowed James Justin to burst down the left and square across the box for Shinnie to stroke first-time home into the bottom left-hand corner as Luton led

1-0 at the break.

Kyle Wootton headed over early in the second half before a horrible defensive error enabled the visitors to double their five minutes in.

The ball ran to Lee on the edge of the box, who forced a fine save from alnwick, only for Cornick to stab home the rebound. it should have three two minutes later when Sonny Bradley headed back across goal and Lee was unable to force it home.

Town were able to play on the break as Lee saw an effort deflected just wide after great work by Cornick. The iron threatened sporadically as Wootton’s free header from a corner was fortunately straight at Shea.

Brave defending from Lee and matty pearson ensured a clean sheet for the Hatters as they blocked out Ojo’s late strike as Town, with 10 league wins from their last 11 games, head into Saturday’s match at Walsall on a high. attendance: 4,050 (Luton 766).

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ROBUST Hatters wrapped up 2018 at Kenilworth Road with yet another victory – this time a 2-0 triumph over Burton albion on only their second ever visit.

Jack Stacey’s sublime strike and James Collins’ emphatic penalty gave Town fans an early Christmas present as they made it six straight league wins to move four points clear in the automatic promotion places. against the run of play, Town took the lead with a sublime goal on 17 minutes when andrew Shinnie’s unbelievable through-ball picked out the onrushing Stacey to take it on his chest and sell the keeper with his eyes as he stroked home first time for a brilliant opener. injury finally forced Rea off as he was replaced by Jorge grant on 28 minutes, before the substitute released a brilliant ball to Stacey but his cross was well cut out by the keeper with Cornick lurking at the far post.

Stand-in Burton right-back Lucas akins was pushed up to the left wing and threatened immediately, finding space on the edge of the box as the brave pelly-Ruddock mpanzu got himself in the way to divert his drive behind, with Cole heading a good chance from the resulting corner over.

James Justin then looked to catch keeper Bradley Collins out as he curled a powerful free-kick towards the near top corner, but the stopper was able to beat it away as Lee’s follow up header was easy for him.

The introduction of Danny Hylton helped to reinvigorate the Hatters as mpanzu shanked an effort wide before Collins teed him up and Hylton was fouled in the box as he stepped inside Stephen Quinn with the Brewer lucky to escape a second yellow card.

However, justice was done as Collins drive the ball high into the left-hand side of the goal to make it 2-0 with 17 minutes to play. attendance: 9,538 (Burton 173).

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— 35

FOOTBALL – HATTERS

Stoppage time strike rescues a point WALsALL ..............................2 (1) Luton toWn ......................2 (0)

nEVER-SaY-DiE Hatters overturned a 2-0 second half deficit and claimed a point with a dramatic 94-minute equaliser to draw 2-2 at Walsall on Saturday.

Some sloppy defending handed the Saddlers a goal in each half before Town fought back as they were only denied a memorable win by an awful offside decision.

James Collins struck with 18 minutes to go to get Luton back into the game before sub Danny Hylton wrongly had an equalising header ruled out by the linesman.

Spirited Town were not to be denied though as replacement Kazenga LuaLua poked home a

well-deserved leveller at the death in front of Luton’s ecstatic away support to earn a point and stretch Town’s unbeaten league run to 12 games, dating all the way back to mid-October. after a quiet opening, the ball ran to Elliot Lee on 17 minutes and his rasping drive was acrobatically tipped over the bar Liam Roberts.

James Justin picked out towering Town skipper Sonny Bradley from the resulting corner and his header towards the top corner was easily grabbed by the keeper. at the other end, andy Cook briefly threatened with a downward header that was easy for James Shea, before Luton were desperately unlucky not to take the lead on 22 minutes when andrew Shinnie’s low drive rebounded for pelly-Ruddock

mpanzu and his exquisite curler beat Roberts and rebounded off the far post. and Town were made to pay a heavy price when george Dobson went tumbling under Jack Stacey’s unnecessary 25thminute challenge and morgan Ferrier buried the resulting penalty low to Shea’s right. injury forced Harry Cornick off as he was replaced by talismanic striker Hylton, but this failed to reinvigorate the Hatters as the Saddlers led 1-0 at the break.

Tackles began to fly in in the second half and bookings began to flow as Luton picked up the pace in a match that threatened to boil over.

The game looked over though when the Saddlers doubled their lead on 67 minutes. Luke Leahy was allowed too much space on the left

and Shea could only palm the ball as far as Walsall danger man andy Cook to rifle home the rebound. a defensive mistake from the Hatters ended in Josh gordon sending a powerful strike straight at Shea before Luton dug deep and rallied in thrilling fashion.

First, the bustling alan mcCormack battled into the box and his shot deflected into the path of Collins to fire home and make it 2-1 with 18 minutes to go.

Luckless Luton were then wrongly denied an equaliser two minutes later when mpanzu’s power half-volley from the edge of the area was steered home by Hylton only for the striker to be denied by the linesman’s flag, much to the annoyance of manager nathan Jones.

Walsall were happy to time-

waste at every opportunity as Liam Kinsella fired over for the hosts and sub LuaLua saw his effort dip and swerve wide.

However, the Hatters weren’t to be denied as a corner in the fourth of stoppage time was lobbed back in by mpanzu and amid a huge goalmouth melee LuaLua was able to produce a deft flick to find the net as almost 2,000 travelling fans erupted in delight. saddlers: Liam Roberts, Joe Edwards Luke Leahy, george Dobson (C), Jon guthrie, nicky Devlin, andy Cook, Liam Kinsella, morgan Ferrier, Jack Fitzwater, Josh gordon (Kane Wilson 80). Subs not used: Chris Dunn, Kieron morris, Zeli ismail, Connor Johnson, Connor Ronan, alfie Bates.

Hatters: James Shea, James

Justin, alan mcCormack, Sonny Bradley (C), matty pearson, Jack Stacey, Elliot Lee (Kazenga LuaLua 63), andrew Shinnie (alan Sheehan 73), Harry Cornick (Danny Hylton 35), pelly-Ruddock mpanzu, James Collins. Subs not used: Harry isted, Luke Berry, Jorge grant, Lloyd Jones.

Bookings: gordon 55; mcCormack 60; Hylton 61; guthrie 90+2; Collins 90+4.

Referee: Ollie Yates. assistant Referees: michael Webb and matthew Smith.

Fourth Official: grant Taylor. attendance: 5,739 (Luton 1,957).

Star Hatter: alan mcCormack – Combative display in the middle helped the Hatters back from the brink.

Promotion rivals keep Hatters honest Luton toWn ......................0 (0) BArnsLeY ............................0 (0)

a RaRE goalless draw at Kenilworth Road welcomed in 2019 as the Hatters were held to a hard-fought stalemate by promotion rivals Barnsley.

There were to be none of the fireworks that greeted in the new Year the previous night as Luton dug deep to hold firm against the best team to visit Kenilworth Road

this season.

Town made a bright start as James Collins was frustrated not to beat adam Davies to Danny Hylton’s through-ball a couple of minutes in, before Barnsley proceeded to dominate with a hightempo pressing game allied to some slick passing. and the Tykes should have taken the lead on nine minutes when matty pearson couldn’t cut out mamadou Thiam’s through ball and

former Hatter, Caudley Woodrow, one-on-one with James Shea, fired wastefully wide.

Fellow ex-Hatter Cameron mcgeehan’s long-range effort was easy for Shea, before Town finally started to work their way back into the game.

Claims for a penalty on Elliot Lee as he twisted and turned in the box were waved away and from the resulting James Justin corner Sonny Bradley headed down for alan

Waders’ holiday matches round-up home side. Only albie Hopkins for Rushden showed any appetite for the game as the teams went in goalless at the break. after the break and kicking up the slope the Waders started to perform to true potential. a collision between the Rushden centre backs, leaving both on the floor, Joe White advanced on goal and pushed his shot past the advancing keeper. Keeping the pressure on the opposition, Biggleswade stuck to the task but and as you know there is always a but, during one Wader offensive the ball was swept out to Farrell who ran near to the length of the pitch, his inch perfect pass to Hopkins left to onloan striker to beat the advancing Sam Donkin.

Continued from page 33

With the dancing nwaboukei still away it was mcnamara who took over the neat footwork as he played havoc with the home defense down the left flank. 75 in and mcnamara was adjudged fouled in the box with White stepping up to make it 2-1 from the penalty spot. Coasting and defending well, mcnamara got his name on the sheet by lobbing the keeper on 79 to give the Waders what would appear an unassailable lead with 10 to go.

Rushden piled on the pressure, a confused incident and goalmouth scramble saw David Longe-King receive a second yellow for a high kick the resulting penalty despatched

by Ben Farrell.

With only time added to play the points still looked safe as

Biggleswade tried to resist the onslaught and run down the clock.

On 94 a second penalty was awarded as Bradshaw fouled Ben Diamonds trying to retrieve a ball running away from goal. Farrell deceived Sam Donkin again to level the scores.

The home fans jubilant, Waders feeling a little disappointed, but it was a point away from home against the side immediately above us, so no shame.

BIGGLesWADe toWn .............0 strAtforD toWn...................0 nO bah bah humbug here i enjoy this time of year as do most. Just that 4 games in ten days takes its toll on players, management and backroom boys and girls. Taken along with the

mcCormack, whose low drive was well saved with no-one on hand to net the rebound.

Recalled Hylton then combined with Collins to tee up andrew Shinnie, but he could only mishit wide, while at the other end Woodrow whistled over the bar.

Shinnie then had a long-range effort easily saved as the teams went in goalless at the break.

The Tykes again started the on the front foot as Thiam’s early, low,

traditional eat drink and be merry just a step to far for fast attacking football.

So yesterday saw a game that nobody wanted to win or lose.

Stratford high flying just below the Waders were not prepared to yield that position at the Langford Road.

So as entertainment goes not a great advert for the beautiful game.

Defences dominated with no real chances over the 90. Donovan makoma put in a good performance in the midfield, he gets better with each game as he settles into the squad. The best chance of the match came late on as lively Jonny mcnamara hit his shot straight at the keeper. in the end it ran off the festive food and we can now prepare for St.ives on Saturday.

long-range effort was well held by Shea, before the Tykes again went close in fortuitous circumstances.

Thiam stuck out an acrobatic leg and the ball ran right to Bradley potts on the edge of the area, whose fierce effort deflected of mcCormack’s head and just over the bar.

Town again took their time to grow into the second half as Hylton twice sent headers wide of the mark in quick succession.

On the hour, Collins fired in a great low cross that no-one could get on the end of before another Luton free-kick was flicked on in the box but pearson’s point-blank header lacked venom and was straight at the keeper.

Both teams seemed to tire as neither were able to land the killer blow. Hylton sent another header over before the Hatters then went close with two fine shots from distance. First, Shinnie skipped past his marker and his fierce drive flew wide of the far post. Lee was then able to wriggle free and his daisycutter almost squirmed past Davies, but the keeper held on with several Luton men lurking.

Town substitute Harry Cornick lasted just two minutes until injury forced him back off and the Tykes almost snatched it in injury time when alex mowatt surged forward from the back and his pile-driver fizzed agonisingly wide of the post.

The draw, against the last team to beat the Hatters back in mid-

October, stretched Luton’s unbeaten run to 13 games, but they fell back in the race at the top as both rivals portsmouth and Sunderland enjoyed single-goal triumphs. There was further bad news with the confirmation that skipper glen Rea partially ruptured his cruciate knee ligaments in the last home game and will likely miss the rest of the season.

Hatters: James Shea, James Justin, alan mcCormack, Sonny Bradley (C), matty pearson, Jack Stacey, Danny Hylton, Elliot Lee (Harry Cornick 88, Luke Berry 90+1)), andrew Shinnie (Kazenga LuaLua 90+6), pelly-Ruddock mpanzu, James Collins. Subs not used: Jorge grant, Lloyd Jones, Harry isted, alan Sheehan.

Tykes: adam Davies (C), Kenny Dougall (mike Bahre 64), Ethan pinnock, Liam Lindsay, Cameron mcgeehan, Dmitri Cavare, Brad potts (Victor adeboyejo 89), Cauley Woodrow, mamadou Thiam (Jacob Brown 76), alex mowatt, Ben Williams. Subs not used: Ryan Hedges, george moncur, adam Jackson, Jake greatorex.

Bookings: pinnock 63; Shinnie 79.

Referee: John Brooks. assistant Referees: adam Crysell and nigel Lugg.

Fourth Official: ian Cooper. attendance: 9,926 (Barnsley 845).

Star Hatter: James Justin – Composed and energetic performance from the classy full-back.

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