Kempston calling march 2018

MARCH 2018

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2 — KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018

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KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL 104 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8BG Tel: 01234 851005 www.kempstontowncouncil.com Email: kempstoncouncil@btconnect.com Office hours: 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday

IF YOU SEE IT – REPORT IT A police report is a regular agenda item at Kempston Town Council meetings. A series of crime statistics are presented by the police. At a recent meeting Councillors were particularly keen to discuss the current rise in burglaries. It seems that it is happening across the area and not only in Kempston. The good news is that several arrests have been made. The police are working with their intelligence unit to identify more offenders and ask that people remain vigilant and

report any suspicious behaviour to them.

Reporting community issues provides valuable information that allows agencies to work together. Knowing how to share the information will mean that the right people know and can act more quickly.

Bedfordshire Police have launched a new service that allows members of the local community to report concerns and suspicious activity online. The information that you provide could help to stop a crime or convict a criminal.

KNOW YOUR COUNCILLOR

adrien Beardmore 52 Foster Road, Kempston MK42 8BU adybeard@ntlworld.com 853803 Kay Burley 7 Westdale Walk, Kempston MK42 8NX gordoncolling@btinternet.com 843805 David Clarke 86A Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8BB daleysclub@outlook.com 851143 lindsay fensome 7 Kingston Close, Kempston MK42 8WA lfensome071@virginmedia.com 07857 005384 will Hunt 5 Vyne Close, Kempston MK42 8RH willhunt@ntlworld.com 852072 / 07787 742887 richard Hyde 14 The Links, Kempston MK42 7LA Hydeaway14@googlemail.com 300848 / 07986 225389

fiorentino manocchio 32 Hartwell Drive, Kempston MK42 8UY fiore.manocchio@gmail.com 07818 426266 mohammed masud 46 Henderson Way, Kempston MK42 8NP cllrmasud@bedford.gov.uk 07974 276944 Carl meader 39 Highfield Road, Kempston MK42 7JH carl.meader@bedford.gov.uk 857621 sue oliver 4 Loveridge Ave, Kempston MK42 8SD sue.oliver@bedford.gov.uk 303029 peter tansey-Dwyer 106 Hilton Close, Kempston MK42 7FT petertanseydwyer@yahoo.co.uk 07597 717699 James Valentine 35 Waterloo Road, Bedford MK40 3PQ jamesemmanuelvalentine@gmail.com 330621

COUNCILLORS’ HELP AND ADVICE SURGERY Every Saturday 10.30am– 12 noon in Sainsbury’s at the Saxon Centre.

MEETINGS TAKING PLACE IN FEBRUARY/MARCH

Kempston Burials Joint Committee...............7.30pm 8 March

planning ...................................................................6.30pm 13 March

Kempston town CounCil.....................................7.30pm 13 March

Community safety forum ..................................6.30pm 19 April

Emergency: call 999 Non emergency: call 101 Online: www.bedfordshire.police.uk/report The online service will allow you to provide information about a crime or a community concern, whether you are the victim or have information to share. You have the option to remain anonymous and all the reports will be reviewed by the police.

You can of course speak to your local councillor or contact the Town Council office too!

Come along!

Kempston has a Community Safety Forum that meets quarterly where residents can speak face to face with representatives from the Police, Town and Borough councils, Fire service, Neighbourhood watch and others.

The next meeting is on 19th April at 6.30pm Kempston Town Council, 104 Bedford Road, Kempston, MK42 8BG. Parking and a lift are available.

It is a public meeting and not a council committee. Everyone is welcome!

Mind your step!

Several residents have complained about the lack of a continuous footpath between Cemetery Road, the new Kempston Rural school and Lidl’s store.

Obviously not everyone has transport and the journey is very dangerous on foot! Zig zaging across a busy road is not acceptable.

Despite very strenuous efforts by the ward councillor, the Borough Council have not been able to remedy the situation. Kempston Town Council feel that it is a serious health and safety issue particularly as it is a route to school.

Kempston’s Mayor (James Valentine) will be writing to Bedford Borough Council on behalf of Kempston residents emphasising the importance of action.

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KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 3

Stilt walking scout leader aiming to recapture her marathon record A fun-loving Bedfordshire Scout leader plans to recapture her world record on stilts at this year’s london virgin Marathon in April.

Kempston-born Michelle frost, who practically lives on her stilts, was the first to set the world record in 2008 when she completed the london Marathon in eight hours 25 minutes. four years later her record was beaten by Hammersmith brother and sister george and Charley Phillips who crossed the line in 6 hours 50 minutes.

Michelle, now aged 32, has been stilt walking for over 20 years and hopes to shave at least an hour off this record on April 22nd. She will be cheered all the way by Beaver Scouts from her Bedford and ouse valley Scout group. At 9 feet tall she will be easy to spot.

This Wootton upper School

pupil, who found out she was a natural on stilts at the age of 12, will be running in aid of the MnD Association a charity supporting those affected by motor neurone disease. When the charity chose her for the epic marathon run her response was: “i’m so proud to be taking part in the london Marathon for #TeamMnD and raising much needed awareness for the MnD Association.” She’ll need all this exuberance and more to make it to the finishing line.

Michelle (also known as Rainbow Dave) is now in serious training around Bedfordshire.

Watch out for her. She’ll be walking tall at nine feet and will be dressed in the blue and orange of the MnD Association.

To donate to her charity go to: Justgiving.com/Michelle-frost5.

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Do you use Addison Howard Park?

New business in High Street

BuMpnGO located on the High Street is the only independent baby and nursery goods shop serving the people of Kempston, Bedford and the surrounding area.

Bumpngo aims to help growing families reduce the stress of what can often be a challenging time, especially for new parents. They offer a friendly, professional service, with a wide choice of competitively priced, quality goods.

The three directors have over 30 years experience in the industry and are all parents. They believe this makes them ideally placed to recommend to their customers the correct product to meet every families’ specific needs.

Bumpndgo has been trading online since August 2016, across Ebay and Amazon.

Bolstered by their online success they felt it was an ideal time to expand into premises, in which their customers are able to browse our goods and receive face-to-face advice.

Bumpngo’s hours of business are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm & Saturday 10am to 4pm.

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We want to hear from you

BEdFORd Borough Council is asking users of Addison Howard park to get in touch.

The award-winning Addison Howard park is the main park in Kempston and has a number of facilities including tennis and basketball courts, table tennis, an enhanced play area, organised sports facilities and the Green Man Community Garden.

The Council is asking park users what they like about the park and what can be improved through a customer satisfaction survey.

This survey will help make sure the Council is focusing on the most important areas for local residents, and the information collected will then be used in guiding the future management of the park.

Cllr Charles Royden, portfolio Holder for Environment said: “I know lots of people use Addison Howard park, with facilities available for people of all ages and we are rightly proud of our fantastic parks and green spaces in Bedford Borough. please take part in our survey and let us know your thoughts on Addison Howard park.”

The survey can be found via www.forms.bedford.gov.uk/ahp or at Bedford Central Library and Kempston Library for paper copies. Responses must be received by March 19, 2018.

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New ‘adult gym’ in the park

KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 5

MAyoR of Kempston James valentine accompanied Councillor Shan Hunt on a sunny Sunday to try out the new ‘adult gym’ equipment in Addison Howard Park. Designed to develop aerobic fitness and physical wellbeing, it is suitable for older children as well as adults.

The equipment was paid for using Cllr. Hunt’s Ward fund. Cllr Hunt said: “i noticed this sort of kit in Bedford’s twin town of Bamberg so i thought, why not have it here in Kempston too. Also, not everyone can afford gym membership so here’s a free alternative.”

Cllr. valentine said: “i’ve tried out the equipment and it certainly got me out of breath and warmed me up on a cold morning. it’s a great addition to the facilities we have here in the park. And being just about opposite Kempston Town Council, i look forward to popping over for regular workouts.”

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Captain Alice leaves corporate world to get children mapping

AFTER a career in the corporate world of gas and oil exploration Alice Gadney is sharing her cartography skills with school children.

A Bedford resident she is a Fellow of the British Cartographic Society, also a serving council member, Chair of the Education Committee (2017), an editor for ‘Maplines’ magazine and she was Restless Earth Coordinator 20152018.

Alice organised and taught the ‘Restless Earth’ workshops to over 3000 Year 10 pupils, across the uK. Its key aim is teaching about the roles and importance of the ‘Cartographic Skills’ in real life disaster Mapping.

After setting up her corporate mapping business Silver7 Mapping in 2008, she decided to use her experience, knowledge and adventures in Cartography to set up Mini MapMakers Limited. Mini Map-Makers was formed in 2017 with the idea of creating resources to help teach teachers and children to understand all about maps and #GettingChildrenMapping was launched.

Since August 2017, when the ‘X’ Marks the Spot Workshops were

launched, at local venues around Bedford and Cambridge, ‘Captain Alice’ has taught just short of 500 children at eight venues including schools, museums and visitor centres and bespoke workshops. production of workshops and resources, in-line with the uK curriculum for children to learn about maps, is an integral part of Mini Map-Makers. using ‘Learning through Fun’ with exciting activities and imaginative resources, while applying their newly learned skills.

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40th Anniversary for Bedford’s River Festival

fiRST held in 1978, the 20th bi-ennial Bedford River festival will take place on Saturday 14th – Sunday 15th July. now recognised as one of the largest outdoor events of its kind in the uK, the 2016 festival saw over 250,000 visitors enjoy the unique mix of carnival, music and nautical. This year’s River festival promises to be even more popular with the event celebrating its 40th birthday.

Events on the river include competitions for the best decorated narrow boats and cruisers; an illuminated boat parade; kayak slalom; the ever popular Dragonboat races on Saturday, and raft racing on Sunday, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. new features this year include St Mary’s garden which will showcase local arts and crafts and the Continental Market highlighting cuisine from around the world. in addition, 2018 marks the end of the World War i and the Heritage village will be commemorating this by showcasing all aspects of the war with over 50 re-enactors, displays and demonstrations.

The Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said ‘it is fantastic to be celebrating 40 years of the River festival. This wonderful event is powered by Bedford Borough’s community spirit and there is always a vast array of attractions for people of all ages to enjoy, and i am looking forward to seeing how this year’s event develops.”

Applications for participation in the Dragon Boat races, raft races and Carnival Parade are now open, as are opportunities for businesses to get involved through sponsorship or trade stands. for information about getting involved please email events@bedford.gov.uk

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Daubeney Academy holds Colours Award Ceremony

On Monday 29th January 2018, daubeney Academy’s latest Colours Award Ceremony took place at King’s House in Bedford. during the evening, 51 new badges and certificates were awarded to 42 students, some of whom had made so much progress that they were receiving more than one badge!

The Colours system is unique OAKLEY Motorcyle Club mem- to daubeney, and as well as workbers got together on January 28th ing towards gaining excellent academic qualifications, their stufor a curry night.

Exactly 83 people went to the dents are able make themselves Indiya restaurant on Bedford’s more employable to businesses Broadway and in the process and attractive to colleges by gainraised £680 for East Anglian Air ing the nationally renowned Challenger diploma, which Ambulance.

This annual dinner now in its daubeney offers as in integral part seventh year has become one of of its school life and its drive to the club’s ‘must go to’ events. This produce effective contributors to year the meal was substantially society. during the ceremony, Mr oversubscribed, limited by the size of the restaurant. The staff of Miles, daubeney’s Head teacher, Indiya have been extremely wel- quoted Martin Luther King by coming over the years and have stating that “We must remember really cracked the task of serving that intelligence is not enough. the masses in a short space of time. Intelligence plus character–that is Oakley Motorcycle Club meets at the goal of true education.” All of Oakley Social Club every daubeney’s teachers are incrediThursday evening, all are wel- bly proud of the efforts and come to join the other 550 mem- achievements of their Colours students. bers!

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KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 7

8 — KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018

Garden notes

HOpEFuLLY the worst of the weather is now behind us so that as the sun gets a little warmth and the sap starts to rise in the gardeners as well as the plants we can start getting out and doing things in the garden.

According to the seed packets we can so most things now, but we need to exercise a little caution.

The seed packets are guessing that conditions are perfect but after such a long cold wet spell the ground will take quite some time

to warm up. At least we are not going to need to worry about watering for a while yet.

When we do get round to sowing small seeds such as carrots and parsnips and the like, it is sometimes worth while making a slightly bigger drill and filling it with multi-purpose compost and sowing into that.

This can help to improve the chances of success. I have found that using this method and sowing later in the month produces better

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results. When it is warmer the plants grow quicker and soon catch up or overtake seeds sown in colder conditions.

In February Head of catering decided to drag me out of my comfort zone and take her to Anglesey Abbey to see the snowdrops. despite the fact they had got a large variety of snowdrops I felt they were somewhat underwhelming.

I was however extremely impressed with the gardens as a

whole. They were exactly what a garden in winter should be.

Obviously having the space to have large enough groups of plants to create an effect helps, but the variety of trees and shrubs with barks of widely varying colours and textures was really quite stunning.

In amongst all these were early flowering shrubs and bulbs which along with a bit of weak winter sun made for a pleasant day out.

The house too was very interesting, being left largely unchanged since the previous owner died about fifty years ago and left it to the national Trust. In the house, apart from a lot of interesting art works and furniture, is a large collection of clocks some of which are really old and works of art in their own right.

They have so many you can even go on a clock winding tour and go round learning the history of each of the clocks.

Well worth a visit.

Richard Callaghan ––––––––––––––

20% Planning Fee increase

FOLLOWInG parliamentary approval, the planning fee increase came into effect on Wednesday 17th January. All applications will now see an increase of 20% with key cost increases to note: • Applications for new dwellings will rise from £385 to £462 per dwelling • Household applications will see an increase from £172 to £206 • Applications for the discharge of conditions will go from £28 to £34 for householder applications and £97 to £116 for all other applications.

The fee increase will not impact current applications which have already been validated or applications which were validated on receipt and received before 17th January.

For further information or to find out how Robinson & Hall can help you, please call Alice Lawman, Assistant planner on 01234 362913 or email ael@robinsonandhall.co.uk

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Promoting local business

WOOdEn Hill Coffee Company was started two years ago by Robin Sibley (named after the local expression ‘up the wooden hill to Bedfordshire’) Robin has been in coffee since 2000 and it was his intention to set up local business with a focus on good coffee that was responsibly purchased and environmentally friendly.

From day one, he has used as many local companies as possible, his coffee is roasted in Leighton Buzzard, his printing is done at the family owned Fidelity printers in Bedford and his logo was designed by students at the university of Bedfordshire.

The coffee is packaged in compostable bags, not the usual foil-lined bags that are prevalent in the business. He delivers his coffee in reusable wooden crates to avoid cardboard waste and for every 100kgs of coffee they sell, they plant a tree at the Forest of Marston Vale.

January saw the annual tree planting at Marston. The company planted another 100 trees as they did last year too. All the cafes and restaurants who use Wooden Hill were invited to come along. Robin is keen to promote local businesses using local suppliers, whilst also advocating the good work done by the Forest of Marston Vale Trust.

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KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 9

Bedford Free School – a part of Advantage Schools

Bedford Free School is different

Situated in the middle of town, it would be easy to miss BFS. But this school is leading the way in the region.

Every month it hosts twenty Headteachers and Principals from across the country to show how it manages to create a unique ethos. At BFS, there is the calmest corridors, where pupils move from lesson to lesson in silence carrying their equipment with them. Student Leaders show visitors on daily tours in classrooms where 100% of the lesson time is spent on learning, and Senior Leaders and the Principal tour the school checking that all pupils can learn and achieve.

The focus of BFS is on an academic curriculum. Pupils study difficult academic GCSE subjects in year 10 and 11, and all pupils study only subjects that will allow them to access A-levels and universities. There are no ‘easy’ qualifications because we know that our pupils will be competing with pupils from across the country as they aspire to ‘climb the BFS mountain of success’ to university and beyond.

Visitors are always stunned by the atmosphere and ethos in the school as behaviour is impeccable. This is driven by a positive culture of hard work centred around the school’s values of respect, honesty and high expectations. In the morning, the day begins with a morning address, where the Principal or another Senior Leader talks to the pupils about our values and all pupils are reminded to work hard and be nice. Pupils only enter the building once senior staff have checked their uniform is perfect and they have all of their equipment and are ready for learning.

The extended school day — the school is open from 8am-6pm and compulsory from 8.25am-4pm (or 4.45pm if pupils need to catch up on something they haven’t mastered) allows the school to run extra-curricular activities during the school day so everyone can take part.

BFS also has daily ‘prep’ so pupils can start (and in the younger year groups, finish) their homework, and a daily 30 minutes where all pupils read a classic work of literature together, the aim being that pupils have

l Preparing and planning the Beds police radio advert.

read up to 100 of the best works of literature in their time at BFS.

Huge parental engagement at BFS

We work in partnership with parents, offering a minimum of two parents’ evenings per year. The most recent have had well over 90% attendance from parents, and parent contact is made every term, alongside parents’ forums, focus groups, and surveys.

Admissions:

We are significantly oversubscribed, with several applications per place and parents applying from as far as twenty miles away to go to BFS, attracted by our academic ethos, incredibly high expectations, extended school day, and electives programme. Come and visit us to find out more — you will be blown away!

Recent successes

Two groups of pupils have reached the final of the Bedfordshire Police Challenge to create anti-knife crime adverts for radio. You can see their work on youtube and one of the groups is in the picture. Please have a listen.

For further information www.bedfordfreeschool.co.uk info@bedfordfreeschool.co.uk 01234 332299

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KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 11

New innovative approach to combat increase in town’s rough sleeping

BEdFORd’S number of rough sleepers has increased, from 59 in 2016 to 76 in 2017 according to recent Government figures. This puts Bedford seventh in the table of local authorities with the highest numbers of rough sleepers, behind Westminster, Brighton & Hove, Camden, Manchester, Luton and Bristol.

Homeless Link, the national charity for organisations working within homelessness said: “This rise in rough sleeping is appalling, with a saddening growth in the number of people without a safe place to stay, and at risk of deteriorating mental and physical health.” Homeless Link believe that a strategic and co-ordinated response is crucial for effective action.

This is the exact approach that Bedford has taken, with the recent introduction of a new post, Homeless Inter-Agency Officer who will work with all the agencies and partners to encourage collaboration and consistency. The role has been funded for three years by The Harpur Trust, which

number of people sleeping rough.” awareness of the services availSam’s role will see her organis- able in the town. ing regular conferences around For more information see facehomelessness, and raising public book.com/bedfordhomeless.

already supports a number of homelessness agencies through its grantmaking but recently challenged local charities to develop an innovative way of tackling the growing problem in the town.

Sam price (pictured above), who has taken on the role said: “I am really excited about working together with all the great organisations and community groups that help the homeless in Bedford.

“I believe that building effective partnerships and coordinating our approach to homelessness will bring about change in Bedford, and reduce the

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Award ceremony celebrates the Borough’s fabulous foster carers

THE Foster Carer Award Ceremony took place at the university of Bedfordshire in January. The ceremony provides an occasion to highlight and give recognition to foster carers in Bedford Borough for the fantastic work they do.

This is the fourth year that these awards have taken place.

Five awards were given out at the Ceremony attended by over 30 families, including an award for five years’ service and another for 25 years’ service caring for looked after children. The Mayor of Bedford Borough, dave Hodgson and portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, Cllr Shan Hunt also attended.

There were 46 nominations for the three special awards – Fantastic Foster Carer, Corporate parent and Kids Who Share Award.

The Fantastic Foster Carer Award was awarded to Mel Grant & Jason Rider. They were nominated by their foster children who

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said “Children have come into this house scared, worried, and unhappy. They leave more positive, with more understanding and stability. not all superheroes wear capes. Some go into hiding to make a difference without all the fame and double the glory.”

Cllr Shan Hunt said: “The event was a great success and an excellent opportunity to highlight the good work that our foster carers have carried out over the years.

We would like to remind people that anyone wanting to foster will be supported every step of the way

by Bedford Borough Council.”

You don’t have to live in Bedford to foster a child from the Borough. If our “superhero” foster carers have inspired you and you feel that you can provide an understanding and stable environment for our looked after children, we would like to hear from you.

Those seeking more information on fostering can contact Bedford Borough Council’s Fostering Team on 01234 718718 or email: adoptionandfostering @bedford.gov.uk

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KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 13

Guide Dogs in Bedfordshire launches video campaign

THE charity Guide dogs in Bedfordshire has launched a social media campaign to recruit volunteers who could help guide people who are visually impaired and blind.

An emotionally charted 3 minute Facebook video aims to promote the charity’s My Guide Service. It shows how My Guide partnerships are transforming the lives of people living with sight loss.

The charity says it has 36 people waiting for life-changing volunteers to help them get out of their home to access the communities we all belong to.

For more information or interview requests, contact Siobhan Meade on 07766 424 427 or email siobhan.meade@guidedogs.org.uk ––––––––––––––

Tenors and basses – can you help us out?

THE danesborough Chorus urgently needs more tenors and basses for its summer concert.

We’re a leading amateur choral society in the Bedfordshire/ Buckinghamshire area, and we’re rehearsing Bruckner’s groundbreaking Mass in F Minor, to perform in Woburn Church on Saturday 23 June at 7.30 pm.

Our large, mixed-voice choir currently benefits from a rich contribution by an overstretched number of tenors (men and women) and basses.

They would make you very welcome (someone might even invite you to the pub after the concert).

Singing in a choir is sociable, fun and good for your health. not convinced yet? Everyone knows that singing in a choir also helps fight male baldness – if you see any bald men amongst our tenors and basses, it’s because they didn’t join early enough!

Whatever the state of your crowning glory, come along to our choir rehearsals for the Bruckner.

Rehearsals start Wednesday 7th March - 7.45 pm - 9.50 pm in Aspley Guise Village Hall. If you can’t make that date, you can still join over the coming weeks.

For more information, phone membership secretary Carol Yirrell on 01296 680328 and visit: www.danesborough.org.uk

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The Will Writing Company is celebrating its 22nd Year in business and is offering a free Will & Testament (joint or single) to all readers. If you have been meaning to make a Will, now is your chance to take advantage of this exclusive offer and give you and your loved ones peace of mind. By making a Will, you decide who takes care of your children and who inherits your estate. Storage facility optional.

To take advantage of this offer and book an appointment or for further information please call our offices on the above number between the hours of 9:00am-5:30pm Monday to Friday.

OFFER ENDS 30th MARCH 2018

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The voucher must be produced at your appointment.

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Making Bedford a destination

TRAVELLInG around the globe continues to be big business. Whether people are travelling for trade or as tourists, there is always a demand for expert advice and lowest prices.

This is evidenced by the expansion of Global Travel Experts into new premises at the Castle Quay complex (just off the High Street via Ram Yard passage).

Husband and wife team Meherwan (pronounced Mer Van for ease) and his wife Benafsha are delighted to be taking all kind of bookings to various destinations from walk-in customers.

They pride themselves in offering the cheapest prices for flights or holidays and assure customers of a service second to none. “not everyone trusts or is confident in booking on the internet. Here a client’s money is protected by the Travel Trust Association and ATOL (where applicable) so they feel secure.

“In addition I have 18 years combined experience in the travel business in India, The Far East and in London, so people can benefit from our expertise and lowest prices,” said Meherwan Bozorgi. previously at offices on St Cuthbert’s

Street, Meherwan decided to take a lease from the council at Castle Quay to raise the profile of Global Travel Experts and ease customers walking-in.

“There are some very interesting businesses around here and we hope that we can make Castle Quay a destination for visitors.

“For ourselves we look forward to

welcoming businesses and private travellers who want good value and great service.”

Meherwan and his family are of the Zoroastrian faith, which originated in persia. The special religious ceremony of fire for the offical opening of their new business premises was held on 28th January 2018.

Fit a smoke alarm and test it weekly Don’t be distracted by your mobile phone or callers Turn off any cooking if you leave the kitchen Avoid cooking when tired, if you have consumed alcohol or are using drugs or on medication Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/bedsfire Follow us on Twitter: @bedsfire Website: www.bedsfire.com

Subscribe to Beds Fire Alert for safety advice sent directly to you: www.bedsfirealert.co.uk

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Flower Festival at Candlemas

ST pAuL’S church, opened to a crowd of delighted visitors as Lord Lieutenant, Helen nellis highlighted how these beautiful arrangements bring light into an often dull February. Candlemas celebrates the hope of spring and light after the darkness of winter. The dean of St Albans Abbey, the Very Reverend dr Jeffrey John, blessed the Festival. Also in attendance at the opening ceremony were the Mp for Bedford & Kempston, Mohammad Yasin and the High Sheriff for Bedfordshire, Vinod Tailor. Guests included representatives of all the flower arrangements.

Many themes under the overall title have been chosen for the 60 lovely and imaginative arrangements in this spectacular setting, from Windows for Candlemas, The Light of the world, Bringing hope to rebuild lives, Tranquillity and Simplicity to Floreat Bedfordia (May Bedford Flourish).

The flower arrangers come from groups and individuals across the county; flower guilds from numerous places of worship from St Albans Abbey and The Salvation Army to peterborough Cathedral; representatives of various womens’ and community groups, schools and floral businesses.

Launch of children’s writing competition

AnnounCing the launch of John Bunyan Museum’s annual competition for school-age children and young people, ‘A Day in the life of…’

We are asking you to imagine you are one of the figures which represent John Bunyan in John Bunyan Museum. Each one shows John Bunyan at different stages of his life – as a tinker, soldier, prisoner, and preacher. you are asked to produce a piece of writing showing what John Bunyan was feeling, thinking, doing, and experiencing at this stage of his life.

Record your ideas in a diary, letter, speech/sermon, cartoon strip, short play or even a poem. your entry must be the size of an A4 sheet of paper. Entries will be judged on the basis of how well you have got inside the ‘skin’ of the figure you have chosen and your understanding of what was happening in to him at this stage of history.

• four age groups: years 1 and 2, years 3 and 4, years 5, 6 and 7, years 8, 9 and 10 • Prizes in each age group Entry forms available from: local schools, John Bunyan Museum shop, or download: w w w. b u n y a n m e e t i n g . c o . u k / museum There are four age groups: school years 1 and 2, years 3 and 4, years 5, 6 and 7 years 8, 9 and 10 with a first, second, and third prize.

The closing date for the competition is 4th June 2018. for more details contact, nicola Sherhod, on 01234 270303 Email: curator@bunyanmeeting. co.uk

KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 15

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Risk Takers and History Makers On Monday 5th February a new Heritage Lottery funded partnership project between The Bedford Chronicles, John Bunyan Museum and The panacea Museum was officially launched.

Working with schools and the wider community, Risk Takers and History Makers, will share the stories of four women of Bedford over a 300yr period; women who fought and struggled against society and the government of the day for faith, justice or their beliefs. These important women in the history of Bedford are little known in the community, and the project will raise awareness of this lost heritage and raise their profiles in the community.

Each woman faced one or more of: Sexism, discrimination, Racism, Inequality, Misogyny The project will highlight the stories of these women as well as other Bedford women and show how their actions broke through the barriers and social prejudices of their time. How they fought against a preconceived normality to become trailblazers for the women who were to follow them. during times when women had no real voice or power, these women fought to make their voices heard.

It will also highlight the relevance of their stories for us all in the 21st Century and how women today are still fighting to gain equality in the modern world. 2018 is the 100th anniversary of 40% of women who met age and property qualifications being given the right to vote, and the 90th anniversary of universal suffrage.

At a time when women’s heritage will be brought into focus nationally, it is fitting to emphasis this and share the varied stories of Bedford women, whose stories have frequently been ignored.

The project will culminate in a two week exhibition hosted at both The Basement @ Bunyan Gallery and at The panacea Museum. The exhibition will display artwork, sculptures, the book and installations created by students as part of the project. The exhibition will also host the film that is being shot as part of the project as well as a recording of the Community Choir which will be formed to sing a newly written song created by students.

Co-project Manager and Co-Writer of The Bedford Chronicles Karen Fryc said: “I am delighted that we have been able to bring this project to life, this is the year of women and we are delighted to be able to share these amazing women’s stories.”

Co-project Manager and John Bunyan Museum Curator nicola Sherhod added: “The huge impact and lasting legacy created by women in the past has changed the landscape of women everywhere. Their stories have not been recorded in history and we will put that right.”

For more information and to get involved visit http://bedfordchronicles.co.uk/BedfordsWomen. html

Bedford Road, Kempston

ST. JOHN’S HOMES TRUST

CURRENT VACANCY St John’s Homes currently have a vacancy of a ground floor studio flat.

The criteria to obtain residency (as laid down by the Trust) is as follows: The homes are for needy persons of 60 years or over, who are Christians and who were born in, or who have resided in Kempston for a number of years or have relations living in Kempston.

There are 20 self-contained flats and residents are expected to be able to look after themselves.

There is a resident warden but nursing or care facilities are not provided.

Should you or anyone you know who lives locally be interested in making an application for this flat, please contact the following for an application form.

Julia eros – Clerk to the trustees st. John’s Homes trust, 341 Bedford road, Kempston, Bedford, mK42 8py telephone: (01234) 853669 email: stjohnshomes@talktalkbusiness.net

18 — KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018

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World-wide performances Raising money for the Bedford Daycare Hospice for Bedford composer

MILTOn Ernest resident Jos daalhuizen has a a history of undertaking long distance cycle rides to support Bedford daycare Hospice.

A couple of years back he and group of other like-minded men cycled from Bedford to paris.

This month (March 11) he and appoximately 35,000 riders will participate in the Cape Town Cycle Tour.

This iconic bike ride is the largest time trial event in the world!

Cycling 109km (about 66.3 miles) over 11 hills and more than 4000ft of climbs. This is the London marathon pLuS of the cycling world which has taken place over the last 40 years.

Jos is cycling to raise money for the Linden Road, Bedford-based Bedford daycare Hospice who do fabulous work.

The link to his web page is

uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Josdaal huizen1 Jos is keen to emphasise that all monies raised will go towards the £80K needed for the expansion plans of the hospice to help and support more people and their families.

MEET Emma-Ruth Richards an internationally acclaimed composer and resident in the Castle area of Bedford. Her work as a composer of ‘serious music’ has taken her all over the world.

Her most recent composition, Sciamachy was commissioned by the Britten Sinfonia with funds from the William Alwyn Foundation.

This was performed at London’s Barbican Hall in december and last month at the Saffron Hall, Saffron Walden by the Britten Sinfonia.

Emma-Ruth’s career started with study at Cardiff university and then at the Royal northern College of Music, and she has since worked with composers such as Sir peter Maxwell davies, Oliver Knussen, Alexander Goehr and Colin Matthews.

2017 saw the premiere of a commission from London Sinfonietta at the Royal Festival Hall, London’s Southbank Centre. The release of a Two Worlds Cd, ‘You Cannot Fold a Flood’. Also in 2017 saw a showcase of her opera ‘Traffick’, written with librettist nic Chalmers; which was commissioned and developed with the nordland Teater, norway, the Royal Opera House, London and the Mahogany Opera Group’s Various Stages Festival.

This year there will be the premiere of a new cello duet for Classical Brit Award winner Guy Johnston and the 2016 BBC Young Musician of the Year; Sheku Kanneh-Mason, American premieres of ‘Hora de la Cerc’ with Camerata pacifica, California, and portrait concerts in Manchester’s Stoller Hall. 2019 will see a new Cd release with parma Recordings and

the new York premiere of ‘dark Radiance’ at Carnegie Hall.

Emma-Ruth’s music has been performed on the international stage, taking her to Hong Kong, den Haag, Banff, new York, pennsylvania and Florida. She is a Royal northern Gold Medal composer and has featured in festivals including Aldeburgh, Music of Today, Sounds new Canterbury, Internationaal Kamermuziek festival den Haag, Sound Scotland, Queen’s Belfast, north West, and the St. Magnus Festival.

Her work locally involves using her 12 years’ teaching experience at Bedford School and tutoring private students in piano, composition, aural training, GCSE and A Level music.

She is hopeful of working with Bedford Symphony Orchestra at some point soon.

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LETTER

APRECIATION OF A GOOD FRIEND

TO THE EdITOR: I feel I must write to say what a wonderful lady Betty Fetts is (re last month’s magazine).

Myself and friends went to the show that ‘Frame of Mind’ put on, it was two hours of non-stop dancing and singing.

Getting back to Betty, she also walks, dances and goes to a very energetic keep fit class and is a very willing helper at the fund raising tea dances at the Addison Centre. Betty is certainly an inspiration to all her friends.

Maureen Smith, Kempston

Burglars be warned we’re coming for you

Tackling burglary is a priority for Bedfordshire police and we are committed to finding those responsible and bringing them to justice.

Many burglaries are committed by opportunist thieves, and, although we can’t stop burglaries from happening completely, we encourage everyone to take steps to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of crime.

If you are going out, we’d recommend leaving a light on at home, or making it seem like someone is in by leaving the TV or radio on. It’s also worth checking the security of sheds and garages that may have been forgotten about.

Looking out for your neighbours, particularly those old or vulnerable, is also a great way to keep your area safe. If you know your neighbours are away, keep an eye on their home and report any suspicious activity.

We can all also take steps to keep vehicles safe. If possible, don’t leave things on show in your car, whether it’s an expensive laptop or just some loose change.

We are always grateful to communities for their support in tackling crime. If you would like to report something, you can contact us through our webchat service on our website: www.bedfordshire.police.uk or by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.

DI Andy Southam, Burglary Pursue Lead at Bedfordshire Police

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KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 19

New high-tech science laboratories unveiled at Wootton Upper School

STAFF, parents and governors at Wootton upper School in Bedford are celebrating the opening of new state-of-the-art science laboratories.

A special event was held on Saturday (27 Jan) to mark the relaunch of six of the school’s original science laboratories and a prep room following a major refurbishment project.

The laboratories opened in the mid-1970s and were in urgent need of renovation.

Academy Trustee Jon Billington secured funding from Central Bedfordshire Council and Bedford Borough Council to enable the vital update to take place, the planning for which began in the Spring of 2015.

The project involved the expertise of local architects BE1 and building contractor, Gray and Sons Builders Limited, which managed the project.

As part of the revamp, modern pear-drop stations were installed instead of traditional science benches to improve practical work.

Michael Gleeson, Executive principal for Wootton Academy Trust, said: “I’m delighted to unveil our brand new science facilities which will vastly improve the learning experience for our pupils.

“This project has been a long and painstaking process and I’m so grateful to the trustees, staff, parents, Gray and Sons and BE1 for their unfaltering support and enthusiasm. Work was completed with minimal disruption to teaching thanks to the hard work, cooperation and patience of our science staff and I’m thrilled everybody can now benefit from the wonderful facilities.

“Alongside the first class teaching Wootton upper School a no ■ Windows r o f ■ uPVC Doors, Composite provides, we also have fantastic, day modern facilities to engage our all to tion chat Doors C pupils and encourage them to fuliga l b o ■ French Doors, Patio Doors, fil their potential. We are always striving to improve the learning Bifold Doors environment to help children excel ■ Conservatories and have already hit the ground running in our bid to secure fund■ Deposit Indemnity ing for phase two of the project, ■ 10 year insurance-backed which will involve the renovation Guarantee of J Block in the near future.”

Wootton Academy Trust has ■ Certass Registration applied for a Government grant to – Building Regulations fund its refurbishment plans for J Block and is awaiting the outcome OFFICE AND FACTORY: of this bid. As soon as funds Red Gate Farm, Mill Road, Thurleigh, Bedford MK44 2DP become available, work will get underway. t: 01234 771100 At Saturday’s science laboratoe: info@gandlwindows.co.uk www.gandlwindows.co.uk ry opening, visitors were invited on a tour of the new facilities where they could watch pupils embark on a range of experiments in their new surroundings.

WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES

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20 — KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018

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Afternoon tea – French style ENJOY DIANA’S OWN CLASSIC CREATIONS AND MAKE ANY OCCASION SPECIAL

Christina Rowe from Love Bedford, is pictured centre, samples the French Afternoon Tea with Diana Woo left and Géraldine Perrier Latour, right.

Combining an English tradition (invented by duchess of Bedfordshire in 19th century!) with the tastes of French pâtisserie – afternoon tea is now available at délices bakery and café.

In the English tradition but definitely in a French style: the breads, cakes, viennoiseries (pastries) are 100% French recipes.

Available by advance bookings only, the Afternoon Tea dishes (photographed) are for adults priced at £22 per head but there is a children’s version too (£10) for those bigger family treats.

délices also offers a vegetarian option for the adult and children menus. délices is owned and run by diana Woo and Géraldine perrier Latour who moved from paris to Bedford to set up their own business at 7 Howard Street within the well established Art Centre & Gallery.

They bake for retail and for their tearoom as well as for other restaurants in the area which want authentic and organic French breads and gâteaux. www.delices.co.uk Tel: 01234 353 280 Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @delicesbedford

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Key elements of business success

KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 21

There’s huge variety in what businesses need to do to stay successful. Luckily, there’s a lot of information and business support out there to help. So what are the key elements of success that business owners and directors need to focus on?

Jacqueline Day, Business Adviser from Velocity Growth Hub tells us about what advice businesses seek most from her.

Defining, or refining, your business model is critical.

“When you have these two foundations in place, then, focus on the third area: which is, being very targeted in your marketing.

Use your business model and the right marketing channel to communicate your business offer and benefits effectively. Businesses need to constantly test, make improvements in their products or services, and innovate where necessary, to meet your customers or clients expectations.”

Jacqueline adds.

80% of business success is psychology – 20% is from having the right business processes

“ ”

Jacqueline will be delivering her next ‘MODELLING SUCCESS FOR YOUR BUSINESS’ Masterclass on 26-27 April 2018, 9.30am-5pm at The Holiday Inn, Milton Keynes East, Newport Pagnell MK16 0JA. This will include: ‘ADVANCED SUCCESS STRATEGIES’ You can register for this via www.velocitygrowthhub.com/ workshops

“Successful growth is obviously dependent on a combination of many things though having that real vision and belief is one of the fundamental areas where I see business owners often struggle” Jacqueline says. As a business adviser, coaching people and helping to reinvigorate their belief in their business and in their decision-making is a big part of the relationship Jacqueline has with her clients.

“80% of business success is psychology, 20% is from having the right business processes. With the right commitment, passion and belief you will bring the rewards to your business as, the rest will follow.”

“The second most important thing is having the right business model.” This will include, for example, clearly setting out your target audiences, customer profiling, through to understanding how you will bring in your revenue streams.

“Running your own business is challenging however, by taking some time out to focus on the key elements of your success will deliver results.” Jacqueline stresses.

There is a lot of business information and support services out there. This is where Velocity Growth Hub – as the first stop shop for business support – can help. Our business advisers are on hand to provide one-to-one advice and can put you in touch with any specialist support you may need to get you on track for successful growth.

The Growth Hub offer a wide range of workshops that run throughout the year and are free to qualifying businesses who want to grow.

Want to know more – go to: www.velocitygrowthhub.com

Velocity Growth Hub is part-funded by European Regional Development Fund.

22 — KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018

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Invitation to cricket lovers

KEMpSTOn Methodists Cricket Club are looking for new players for the upcoming 2018 season. We are a small club side with a men’s team on Saturdays, a lady’s team on Sundays and we also play in the Bedford Midweek League. our Winter net Sessions commence on Sunday 25th february and run through until Sunday 29th April at Marston vale Middle School, Stewartby.

Sessions start at 3:30pm and last for 1.5 hours. Anyone interested in playing, of any ability, please get in contact via our website at http://kempstonmethodists.play-cricket.com/ or email us at kempstonmcc@gmail.com And remember, you don’t have to be a Methodist to play for our club. We only retain the name out of respect for those who founded the club back in 1922. We have had players from all walks of life and communities over the years.

Last season we spent most Saturdays fighting off relegation from the s eco nd div is io n o f the Bedfordshire Invitation Saturday Cricket League having lost, albeit by small margins, most of our opening games.

On the last game of the season we looked doomed to go down to division three.

However, some of our players in the last game at home to Hexton CC had other ideas.

Our bowlers restricted Hexton to just 134 runs all out, off 35.2 overs, led by brothers Tom, david and Ryan Holdway who took a wicket each very economically. They were supported

by Gary Wright-pack, who took a

wicket for 14 runs and our Captain Mark Thompson who took 4 for just 26 runs.

After a splendid tea in our clubhouse at Cryselco park our batsmen accepted the challenge of overhauling the Hexton total despite losing a wicket in the fourth over with just 18 runs on the board. Shiv Sundar joined david Holdway at the crease and between them knocked off a further 84 runs before david fell to a Hexton catch for a magnificent 67 runs off just 37 balls. david’s innings included 1 six and 13 fours in his knock of 47 minutes.

This left 36 runs required for victory. Kempston only lost a further wicket before Shiv and Alistair Marriott saw the side home off 22.1 overs and Shiv finishing on 47 not out.

The victory saw us climb above pilgrims Oakley CC to avoid relegation. A well-deserved result for everyone involved in the club. And so on to 2018.

If you fancy joining a family club for a regular or occasional game of cricket, please give us a call. Our players ages range from 14 to 67 in our men’s teams and 15 to?? in our women’s team (well it’s rude to ask a lady her age).

Our home ground is Cryselco park, off Woburn Road where we look after the playing area ourselves and have changing rooms and tea facilities in our clubhouse.

We look forward to hearing from you and meeting you at Marston Vale Middle School at one, or all our indoor net Sessions.

Graham Riddy Club Scorer and Statistician

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KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 23

Bedford Hospitals Charity celebrates 30 years

On Saturday January 27, the Bedford Hospitals Charity launched their 30th Anniversary Year Celebrations. The invited guests who had, in one way or another, very generously supported the charity over the past 30 years included many individual supporters together with representatives of the organisations, businesses, trusts, and local groups that form the very supportive communities of Bedford and the neighbouring area.

Among those attending were LordLieutenant Helen nellis, High Sheriff Vinod Tailor, Speaker of Bedford Borough Council Jade uko, paul Mead and colleagues of Michael R peters, Harry Beard representing the Beard family and the Beard Group, and many past and present volunteer members of the Executive Committee of the Bedford Hospitals Charity

including, Mrs Jude Cottam MBE (for services to Bedford Hospital), and Mrs Molly Taylor MBE and Mrs Rene Garrard MBE (both for their fundraising work for the Charity). deborah Inskip dL, Chairman of the Bedford Hospitals Charity, welcomed those at the afternoon event at Bedford Modern School and introduced Mrs Ann Hadfield who told how with her late husband James Hadfield, a consultant who became Medical director at Bedford Hospital, they held social events that led to the formation of Medical Wives. That group soon realised that the nurses’ home needed renovation and Margaret Oakley told of d the efforts involved in raising the necessary £100,000, and also the recruitment of Brian Woodrow as founder chairman of what became the Bedford Hospitals Charity.

OFFICER NUMBERS TO REACH 1,224

Earlier this month, I met with the police and Crime panel to discuss raising the police share of council tax – the precept – by a pound a month for B and d homes without having to hold a referendum. This is not a decision I took lightly.

I feel strongly that if the local council taxpayer, rather the Central Government, is to have to meet the cost of improving policing the cash raised must pay for improvements which are those the public wants most.

I am planning to recruit between 110 and 130 new officers per year for each of the next two years of my term as a result to boost Bedfordshire’s notoriously thin blue line.

I am know for certain that I have the support of the public in this decision as in every one of the public meetings I have

REVISTING OLD WISDOM

A recent news headline announced that Members of parliament and those who worked in Westminster were to have a new ‘Code of Conduct’. Responding, particularly to the apparently disturbing culture of harassment and inappropriate behaviour, the prime Minister rightly emphasised the need “to establish a new culture of respect at the centre of our public life: one in which everyone can feel confident that they are working in a safe and secure environment”.

What caught my attention, however, was the emphasis in the press headlines on the word ‘new’. I found myself wondering, whether what was needed was not a something new, but something old. Was this the time to revisit old wisdom?

The Ten Commandments are certainly old wisdom going back to Moses and the people of

Pictured L-R: Mrs Ann Hadfield, Deborah Inskip, Chairman of the Charity, Brian Woodrow, Chairman of Trustees.

The wide scope of the many proj- primrose unit and the primrose Car ects provided over the years was Service, and the new £1 million MRI described by Brian Woodrow dL, Scanner due to be delivered very soon.

OBE, Chairman of the Charity’s The amounts raised and the sheer Trustees, and he said how the £10 mil- range of equipment and facilities prolion raised by the local communities vided are believed to make the Bedford over the past 30 years has funded such Hospitals Charity unique in this counmajor facilities as the Macmillan try.

Update from the

Police & Crime Commissioner

by Kathryn Holloway

attended over almost two years in this role, from Shefford to central Luton, every single community has called for more police to strengthen Bedfordshire police’s response to crime and support for victims.

There were just over a thousand officers when I came took up the role as police and Crime Commissioner and I intend that there will be 1,224 as a direct result of the additional funds I can raise through council tax.

I have been given the ability by

View from the Rt Revd

Richard Atkinson

The Bishop of Bedford

Israel journeying through the wilderness. In the Book of Exodus Moses receives them from God himself on Mount Sinai.

Sadly the evidence is that many of us struggle to recall the Ten Commandments.

An American survey some years ago showed that people were more familiar with the ingredients of a Big Mac! So maybe the time has come to look again; to be surprised by how some of the Commandments are so relevant for today. For whilst ‘Thou shalt not kill’ and ‘Thou shalt not

Government to raise these extra funds through council tax for the next two years alone at this juncture.

However, the policing Minister, nick Hurd, has confirmed to me that the historically unfair share for Bedfordshire police of the national funding pot will be addressed at the time of the next Spending Review, which will be in autumn 2020.

He has repeated this in the House of Commons in a reply to South West Bedfordshire Mp, Andrew Selous. I expect the Government to stand by its word.

Having provided full evidence for the need for these officers – and still more – to Government, I fully intend to recruit as many officers as I can afford over this next two year period. I have made it absolutely clear to the Government that I need it to deliver on its promise to produce a budget to support them from that point onwards.

steal’ have a timeless relevance, is it not time, for instance, to take on board again the commands not to lie, to commit adultery and to covet.

All have their place not just in a parliamentary code but in a code for life.

In particular that strange phrase of ‘not coveting’ surely ought to come back into its own.

For ‘not to covet’ is to resist that yearning to possess what is not yours.

At its most basic it is that destructive jealousy that fosters greed and envy. It is also that craving for what it is not yours that I suggest lies behind the abuse of power and position that we are seeing in so many sections of society with the growing accounts of sexual harassment and exploitation.

Why do we need ‘new’ codes when the ‘old’ code still holds good. Is it not time to look again at the Ten Commandments, including the first four with their emphasis on honouring God – a crucial reminder of how all of us are accountable to the Almighty for who we are and how we act?

24 — KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018

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MARCH IN THE GARDEN – by Milton Ernest Garden Centre

MARCH MADNESS

T’S March its getting warmer the days are longer and our gardens are waking to spring when plant madness starts. The early flowering shrubs and trees suddenly burst into amazing displays telling us winter has gone and summer is on the way.

Prunus Kursar is an early flowering cherry which has coloured buds in February followed by masses of deep pink flowers on bare branches in March and April. It grows to about 5m a delightful garden tree when under planted with Cyclamen Coum, silver foliaged Pulmonaria and deep pink Hyacinth Woodstock. Conversely Prunus Kojo Mai is a small flowering cherry which is excellent if grown in a pot on the patio. It is covered in almond pink perfumed flowers throughout March.

Forsythia is a real harbinger of spring with a blaze of bright yellow flowers on bare stems a must for any spring border. Forsythia Golden Nugget and Gold Curl are both more dwarf types with good autumn leaf colour, only growing to about 1m in height. Prune immediately after flowering.

Magnolias also appear in all shapes and sizes from trees to types suitable for patio pots. Magnolia Iolanthe is a small tree with very large tulip shaped scented flowers of soft mauve pink. Magnolia Stellata has pearly white flowers while Magnolia Susan has pinky purple perfumed blooms. Both are neat and compact and very free flowering making them suitable to grow in a large container.

Always plant using JI Ericaceous Compost as Magnolias prefer acidic soils although they will adapt in time to Bedfordshire clay.

Pieris is another shrub that prefers acidic soil so again excellent for growing in containers using lime free compost. It gives lots of interest throughout the year with shiny evergreen leaves, bright red pink or burgundy new leaf growth in March and creamy white lily of the valley bell shaped scented flowers

in early summer. Grow in a sheltered place to avoid frost scorching the vibrant new leaf growth.

While discussing plants that like lime free soil and so make excellent specimens to grow in pots in areas where the soil is very alkaline, we must remember the early flowering Rhododendrons and Camellias. Rhododendron Praecox has rosy purple blooms, R. Cilpinense pale pink and R. Christmas Cheer pink and white. All are covered in flower in March only growing to about 60cms tall so brilliant for pots on the patio. Camellias are also evergreen flowering shrubs for growing in ericaceous soil in containers. Camelia Donation, pale pink, and C. Silver Anniversary, creamy white with a golden centre, have semi double flowers while C. Debbie is bright pink with double blooms. It is advisable to cover these plants if frost is forecast to prevent the flowers getting scorched.

Ribes, the flowering currants, are hardy deciduous plants that are very easy to grow. Ribes Pulborough Scarlet, R Sanguineum and R. King Edward are all covered with deep pink or red pendulous scented flowers in March. The foliage is also scented and the plant can also make a very good informal hedge.

Daphne Odora

Aureomarginata is a hardy evergreen shrub that grows well in limey Bedfordshire soil in a sunny or partial shady place. It has wonderful small pink flowers with a very heady sweet jasmine like perfume and handsome brightly variegated yellow and green leaves.

Chaenomeles, the Japanese Flowering Quince, is very hardy, deciduous and easy to grow. The mass of flowers cover the bare stems in March and April followed by the bright green foliage and quince fruits in autumn. Chaenomeles are excellent plants to train on wires against any sunny or shady wall or in a container through an obelisk.

Chaenomeles Crimson and Gold has vibrant

red flowers, C. Nivalis is smothered in glistening white blooms and C. Geisha Girl has large peachy apricot double flowers.

Clematis Alpina and C. Macropetala have pale blue and lilac nodding harebell flowers and grow well with Chaenomeles and add to the flowering March Madness.

TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

out&about Police Cops in Space The Quarry Theatre 7.30pm Tuesday March 6

Following three sell out runs at Soho Theatre with their first production, police Cops, multi award-winning comedy trio The Pretend Men are back with their critically acclaimed EdFringe 2017 Total Sell Out comedy blockbuster police Cops In Space; an 80’s ‘low-fi sci-fi’ set in the most dangerous place on Earth…

Space. After his father is killed by an evil robot, Sammy Johnson, the last police Cop in the universe, blasts off in an unmanned escape pod. now on a distant planet, Sammy must team up with Alien fighter pilot Ranger and his trusty Cyborg C9

Life of Brian The Quarry Theatre 7pm Thursday March 15

Monty python delivers a scathing, anarchic satire of both religion and Hollywood's depiction of all things biblical with their second film Life

of Brian. Set in 33 A.d. Judea where the exasperated Romans try to impose order, it is a time of chaos and change with no shortage of messiahs and followers willing to believe in them. At its centre is Brian Cohen, born in Bethlehem in the stable next door, who, by a series of absurd circumstances is caught up in the new religion and reluctantly mistaken for the promised messiah.

Julius Caesar The Quarry Theatre 7pm Thursday March 22

Ben Whishaw (The danish Girl, Skyfall, Hamlet) and Michelle Fairley (Fortitude, Game of Thrones) play Brutus and Cassius, david Calder (The Lost City of Z, The Hatton Garden Job) plays Caesar and david Morrissey (The Missing, Hangmen, The Walking dead) is Mark Antony. Broadcast live from The Bridge Theatre, London. Caesar returns in triumph to Rome and the people pour out of their homes to celebrate.

Alarmed by the autocrat’s popularity, the educated élite conspire to bring him down.

KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 25

26 — KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018

TEL: 07724 905406

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Mothering Sunday and Easter Services We would like to invite you to come and share the love, joy and peace of the season at our special services. Everyone is very welcome.

PARISH CHURCH OF THE TRANSFIGURATION

PARISH CHURCH OF ALL SAINTS

KEMPSTON

KEMPSTON

Bedford Road across from Addison Howard Park

Off Cemetery Road – the church by the river

Mothering Sunday Service

Mothering Sunday Service

Sunday 11th March 10.00am

Sunday, 11th March 10.45am

A Family Communion Service to celebrate Mothering Sunday with posies of flowers given out during the service

You are warmly invited to join us for our All Age Communion service.

A time to celebrate Mothering and Motherhood.

Posies of flowers will be given out at the service and refreshments will be served after the service.

Everyone is welcome.

Palm Sunday Communion Service Sunday 25th March 10.00am Retelling of the story of Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey

Good Friday Friday 30th March 10.00am

Palm Sunday Communion Service Sunday 25th March 10.45am Meet in the Church Hall.

Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey

Good Friday

A reflective service of word and song remembering Jesus’s death on the cross to save the world.

The service will be followed by a walk of witness to the Saxon Centre

Activities for children in the Church Hall.

Easter Day

Easter Day

Sunday 1st April 10.00am

Sunday 1st April 10.45am

Celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus; enjoy a Family Communion Service.

Free creme egg!

All Age Communion Refreshments will be served after the service and there will be an Easter Egg hunt for the children.

Friday 30th March 10.30am

Rev’d Victoria Bryson 01234 856640 Rev’d Eric Lomax tel 01234 852241 www.allsaintskempston.com

28 — KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018

KEMPSTON SUPPORT GROUP FOR ST JOHN’S HOSPICE IN MOGGERHANGER

Easter Fayre & Coffee Morning Easter Saturday 31st March ALL SAINTS CHURCH HALL Church End, Kempston From 10am ‘til 12.30pm Stalls include: Homemade cakes, Bric-a-Brac, Easter Goodies, Gifts, Books, Raffle and an Easter Egg Tombola Admission £1.00 Refreshments included: Tea, Coffee or Soft Drink

TEL: 07724 905406

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

THE

conclub KEMPSTON 01234 851120 Saturday 3rd March

the amazing ED SHEERAN + OLLY MURS tribute night a double party with the fantastic

JOE SCRIPPS

DIARY DATES 14th April

MICHEAL JACKSON TRIBUTE Saturday 5th May

4th March from 7.30pm

QUIZ NIGHT cash prizes all welcome Saturday 10th March

KYLIE TRIBUTE Sunday 6th May

UB40 TRIBUTE

THE BRILLIANT

Sunday 27th May

CARROT AND CUCUMBER

is our charity day for autism Bedford a full day of fund raising

Saturday 17th March

IN THE EVENING Saturday 9th June

PADDYS NIGHT with a difference a night full of MOTOWN AND SOUL with

SOPHIA SOUL AMY WINEHOUSE

MELITA

TRIBUTE

Saturday 24th March

We are collecting any clothes you might have for us for our charity event please clean and good condition including coats and shoes also raffle and auction prizes needed please

back for one weekend from Spain the beautiful

CHLOE ALLEN Saturday 31st March

THE AMAZING

GEORGIE

Sunday 1st April

The KIDS Easter Sunday

PARTY

from 3.30pm

prizes for best decorated egg/bonnet, games, disco, BBQ, then into the evening we have a double whammy of a tribute night starting off with TOM JONES tribute followed by the best PINK tribute you will see and hear don't miss a full day and night Easter Sunday

SATURDAY NIGHT BINGO BEER RAFFLE – WIN A £30 BAR TAB

CHECK FOR DETAILS www.facebook.com/conclub.kempston

NEW MENU Home cooked Sunday Roasts and Pub Grub BINGO COMING SOON Weds lunchtime & evenings QUIZ NIGHTS Every other Sunday MONTHLY KARAOKE NIGHT PARTY & DANCE with DJ Bobby SKITTLES and POOL teams Keep in touch

@thedukekempston

SATURDAY MARCH 3rd

KARAOKE SATURDAY MARCH 10th LIVE BAND

SONICAS MAXIMUS Hard rock covers and originals

EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 1st EASTER EGG HUNT for kiddies Bonnet and cap competition

ST PATRICK’S NIGHT Music, dancing and much drinking

LIVE SPORT ON TV

TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

Macbeth – a comedy Sharnbrook Mill Theatre Monday 12th to Saturday 17th March at 7.30pm.

putting on any Shakespeare play takes dedication, excellent acting skills and commitment…

Well two out of three ain’t bad!

Join the ladies from The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen’s Guild dramatic

KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018 — 29

Society as they attempt to perform one of the most famous plays of all time, with a startlingly original production of Macbeth.

When we say original we mean the witches don’t have a clue what they are doing, Lady Macbeth can’t work out a bus timetable and the cast keep on getting injured.

It’s a play that keeps going wrong and wrong and wrong.

This farcical, hilarious play really is Macbeth, but just not as we know it!

Support on the night comes from the very excellent The Reformers.

The Blockheads +The Reformers Bedford Esquires Saturday 24th March

Bedford Esquires are bringing The Blockheads back to their main stage for the first time in two years.

Formed in 1977 to promote Ian dury’s album new Boots and panties on the first Stiff Records tour of the uK, the Blockheads are now fronted by one of Ian’s best friends derek ‘The draw’, the band’s vocalist and wordsmith. Chaz Jankel, norman Watt-Roy, John Turnbull and Mick Gallagher still remain from the original band and the current line-up is augmented by John Roberts on drums and a rolling line up of saxophonists including Gilad Atzmon, Terry Edwards or dave Lewis.

D

“ Sw e e t as a nu t ”

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

PRESENT THE TALENTED

PHIL BROWN IN CONCERT WEDS 27 MARCH 7.30 – 10.00pm TEA, COFFEE/BAR/RAFFLE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford

NEW LOOK – NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED

Daley’s Bedford Road, Kempston 01234 851143

SATURDAY 3rd MARCH

SOUL MAN 8.30pm-11.30pm FREE ENTRY – in the bar

SATURDAY 7th APRIL

A night not to be missed LIVE MUSIC IN THE BAR WITH THE

BLUE EYED SOUL

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

DR PHIL

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ SATURDAY 14th APRIL

INFORMERS Tickets £3.00

FOR HIRE FUNCTION ROOLMOCCASIONS SUITABLE FOR AL ISHED NEWLY REFURB

★★★★★★★★

★★★★★ ★★★★★★★★

up to 120

Holds ENTS ATING ARRANGEM ★ SE LE IB FLEX ★★★★ ★★★★★★★★ ★★★★★★★★

www.facebook.com/daleysclub 3 PIECE BAND Email: daleysclub@outlook.com ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Mon-Thurs 11.30am–12midnight, Fri-Sat 11.30am-1am, Sunday 12noon-12midnight

30 — KEMPSTON CALLING MARCH 2018

TEL: 07724 905406

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– Saturday 3 March, 7:30pm BEdFORd FOLK dAnCE CLuB TIDDLYWINKS MARCH IN JAZZ CONCERT COUNTRY AND FOLK TODDLER PLAYGROUP KEMPSTON LIBRARY

St James’ Church, Biddenham Hear award winning jazz pianist nikki Iles and Bedford School Jazz Trio.

In aid of The Friends of St James.

Admission £10. Contact Chris Jones (01234 211759)

–––––––––––––––––––––––– BINGO Kempston Hammers Club (Cutler) Fun, friendly bingo with Eyes down at 8pm 28th March 01234 853262 Always the last Wednesday of the month with the exception of April and december..

BEdFORd & KEMpSTOn LIOnS

––––––––––––––––––––––––

GRAND NATIONAL RACE NIGHT & SUPPER In aid of THE MS THERApY CEnTRE and other Lions Charities

fRiDAy 13th APRil 2018 KEMPSTon inDooR BoWlS CluB, HillgRounDS RoAD, KEMPSTon First Race starts at 8 o’clock (doors open at 7:30pm) TICKETS £12.00 - includes programme & Race Card + 8 Races Grand Tombola + Chicken and Chip Supper & Licensed bar Tickets available from - Lion david Chapman on Bedford 825099 alternatively(Email davechapman@supanet.com) Or call any Lion member

MId BEdS ART SOCIETY 10am- 4pm March 24

–––––––––––––––––––––––– WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOP

with Ian McManus Barton village Hall, Hexton Road, Barton-le-Clay, MK45 4TA Loose and lively is the mantra for this workshop which will focus on a lively urban scene using a reference provided by Ian. pre-booking is essential and the visitor fee is £30.

To reserve a place, please contact Viv Callow on 01525 712735 or email vivianne.callow@hotmail.co.uk MId BEdS. FLOWER CLuB Thursday 8th March at 7.45 pm A demonstration by Yvonne Tan called

––––––––––––––––––––––––

in flitwick village Hall.

Visitors welcome £6.00 for more details contact Marion Tucker on 01234 742396

‘HOLIDAY IN THE SUN’

–––––––––––––––––––––––– CHARITY QUIZ NIGHT In AId OF KEECH HOSpICE friday 9th March 2018 doors open 7pm for 7:30 pm flitton & greenfield village Hall Teams of up to 6 at £10 per head includes ploughman supper.

Contact Rich 01525 754221 rcp.hedges@gmail.com

Meeting at Kempston Hammers Sports & Social Club every Thursday 9.30 till 11.00am school term time only All children welcome from new born to preschool age Large range of toys,activities and a craft table.

Refreshments supplied for both children and carers. non profit making playgroup If your require further information just come along or ring Ruth on 01234 854657

–––––––––––––––––––––––– SPRING CONCERT of light music by the Ouse Valley Singers at 7pm on Sat. 21st April All Saints Church Kempston Church End MK43 8RH. For church funds.

Tickets £7.50 to include refreshments.

Contact Janet: 02134 855158 Carol 01234 407775 and church members

Thursday evenings 8pm – 10pm Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB Its good fun for only £2 including refreshments no partner required.

Ron Law 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com

DANCE CLUB

BEdFORd RSpB LOCAL GROup Meet at ARA club, Manton lane Bedford MK41 7Pf. Thursday 15th March 7.30pm patrick Barkham presents

––––––––––––––––––––––––

‘The Butterfly Isles’

patrick is a natural History writer for ‘The Guardian & award-winning author of “The Butterfly Isles” (our talk this evening).

Suitable for Experts and novices, RSpB membership not essential.

Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 Reg. Charity no. 207076, more info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford

–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON AND MUSIC ON THURSDAYS DISTRICT MODEL Clare College Choir RAILWAY SOCIETY ‘in Peace’ 1918-2018

Every Monday 7.30 to 10.00 At the Church of the Transfiguration rear church hall new members welcome For further details contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com

BEdFORdSHIRE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Friday 2nd March 2018 Interested in Family History?

Then come along to the next monthly talk on

––––––––––––––––––––––––

‘HOW FAR DID YOUR ANCESTORS TRAVEL BEFORE THE ADVENT OF THE RAILWAYS?’

By Celia Heritage 7.15 p.m. Drama Hall, Mark Rutherford School Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk

7.45pm, Thursday 22 March 2018 Bunyan Meeting Tickets £18, Students 18-24 £5, under 18 £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk ALL SAInTS pARISH CHuRCH KEMpSTOn

–––––––––––––––––––––––– FULL AFTERNOON TEA & A GUIDED TOUR

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

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––– WORLD SHIP SOCIETY

Kempston Constitution Club 196A Bedford Road, Kempston 3rd WEdnESdAY in the month 19:30 for 20:00, 21 March 2018 Branch AgM, followed by a presentation prepared by Bill Barber featuring shipping in new Zealand and a selection of the “£10 PoM” imigration liners Telephone: 01234 352014

BEDFORD BRANCH

–––––––––––––––––––––––– FAMILY EASTER EGG HUNT –––––––––––––––––––––––– on Wednesday 28th March, bring the whole KEMPSTON GARDENS family for a fun-filled time at Emmaus village Carlton’s free event. follow the trail to find the ASSOCIATION special eggs hidden around our site, and keep an eye out for the extra special golden eggs too – then come and claim your prize!

1.30pm – 2.30pm Emmaus Village Carlton, School Lane, Carlton, MK43 7LQ

KEMpSTOn MuSICAL SOCIETY

–––––––––––––––––––––––– PASSIONTIDE CONCERT

Kempston Musical Society will be performing a selection of works for Passiontide on Saturday 17th March at Putnoe Heights Church,Bedford at 7.00pm.

OTd £6 includes refreshments.

This will be a most enjoyable evening and we look forward to seeing you on the night.

To find out more about this concert, all our forthcoming concerts or information about the choir please call 01234 781010 or email prestissimo@btinternet.com.

If you are interested gardening why not come along to our meetings. new members and visitors welcome.

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

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

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

at the CEnTEnARY HALL, behind Kempston Town Hall, Bedford Road For further information telephone:

01234 857011

Kempston Library Opening Hours Monday 2-5pm; Tuesday 10am-5pm Wednesday 2-6pm; Thursday 10am-5pm Friday 2-5pm; Saturday 9:30-4pm ReguLaR WeeKLy evenTS: Mondays 2:15pm Pre-School Story Time Mondays 2:00-5:00pm Lego Club Tuesdays 11am Rhyme Time Tuesdays 2pm Wiggles and Jiggles Baby group Wednesdays 2:30pm Family Colouring Club Thursdays 11am Wiggles and Jiggles Baby group Thursdays 2pm Knit and natter Fridays 2:00-5:00p Lego Club Saturdays 10:30am – 3:30pm Saturday Kids Club Special events in March Monday 5th March, 3:30pm: adult Creative Writing group Wednesday 28th March, 2:30pm: adult Craft Club (£1 cost) Full easter Programme of Children’s events available from the Library in March!

Local Councillor Sessions: Cllr nawaz Drop In: Member for Kempston east. Drop in session from 1:30-3:30pm on Saturday 3rd and 17th March.

Sessions for basic computer help. need help with your tablet? Book a one to one session now!

Housebound Library Link and Mobile Library services also available.

Download the Bedfordshire Library app from the apple and Play Store now!

For further details on all the Library events and services, visit the virtual library via www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

–––––––––––––––––––––––– 3T’S TODDLER GROUP We are a (non-profit making) Toddler group who meet at Centenary Hall, 104 Bedford Road, Kempston on Tuesday from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm (term time only) We have a large range of toys and activities for the children to enjoy, where they can learn to share and socialise We provide refreshments for both child and carer.

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––– 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. Meet a range of animals from around the world from reptiles, invertebrates, mammals, birds, amphibians and fish, learn to look after them and handle them correctly.

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

Sessions are £5 per child (siblings £3).

Registration is required. www.blackcricket.co.uk/kids-club www.facebook.com/blackcricketkidsclub Email: kidsclub@blackcricket.co.uk

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

KEMpSTOn CALLInG is an independent monthly magazine with no affiliation to any other organisation. Š 2018 Rosetta publishing Ltd, 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH. Tel: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952. printed by: Mortons print Limited, newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston Road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire Ln9 6JR