Mid Beds Bulletin October 2021

75 YEARS YOUR FREE COPY

MID BEDS EDITION

of Shuttleworth College

THE 75th anniversary of the founding of Shuttleworth College

by Dorothy Shuttleworth was celebrated in a marquee celebration in the grounds of the Shuttleworth Trust estate on Thursday, September 9, 2021.

Princess Charlotte, granddaughter of Dorothy and Patron of the Shuttleworth Trust, joined Ian Pryce CBE of The Bedford College Group on stage to mark the special occasion.

Princess Charlotte reminded the audience of VIP guests how the college was founded two years after the Shuttleworth Trust which was set up in memory of Dorothy’s only son, Richard. The first cohort of students in estate management in 1946 were just six men. Now Shuttleworth College has nearly 750 full-time students (rising to 1,200 including part-time) in a wide range of land-based learning subjects.

“My grandmother believed students would benefit from being in this country setting,” said the Princess, “Today we can be proud of having such a reliable partner in running the college.”

Ian Pryce paid tribute to recently retired Mike Johnson, among the guests, who welcomed Bedford College when it joined with Shuttleworth College in 2009. Together they continued Mike’s great work in encouraging many more students to the rural campus, and a 40 year lease has secured the foreseeable future of the establishment.

The opening in 2019 of the Zoological

by Jane Bird Education Centre, complete with tropical biome, was celebrated at this recent event with guests being given a tour of areas containing animals otherwise found from the Amazon to Australia. The Princess praised the astonishing achievement of the creation of the ZEC which she said she had found an unforgettable experience when visiting.

Catherine Lloyd, Director of Shuttleworth College, explained to the guests there was a wide range of facilities on campus: from the equine to fisheries specialist centres, the Kings Hill farm and exciting outdoor sporting facilities: “This is a vibrant place with an expanding curriculum which would have been of interest to Richard Shuttleworth.”

The Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth Remembrance Trust remembers the last heir of the industrial Shuttleworth fortune, his passion for racing cars and aeroplanes; his love of his Old Warden home, and the agricultural genesis of his wealth.

The Shuttleworth Trust promotes training and discovery in the knowledge and skills of agriculture and of aviation and automotive technology.

Girlguiding and Shuttleworth form a historic partnership

SATURDAY, September 4, 2021 heralded the launch of a new partnership between Girlguiding Bedfordshire and Shuttleworth, Bedfordshire.

Rainbows, Brownies, and Guides from across Bedfordshire will now be able to take part in a specially devised, Shuttleworth Quest, set in the beautiful grounds of the Swiss Gardens and the historic Shuttleworth Collection.

The quest consists of a number of fun and educational elements for the girls to take part in and solve.

The girls have the opportunity to explore the grounds of this unique venue and to immerse themselves in its history.

Karen Keeling Girlguiding Bedfordshire County Commissioner said: “We were delighted to work with Shuttleworth on this project and, after many months of discussion, it is marvellous that the partnership has finally come together.” Karen added: “It is a unique opportunity for our members to explore a historic gem located right on their doorstep.”

L-R: Karen Keeling, Girlguiding Bedfordshire County Commissioner; Carolyn Hare, Girlguiding Event Organiser; Shuttleworth Trust members; Cllr Madeline Russell, Mayor of Biggleswade; Mr. Eric Masih, High Sheriff of Bedfordshire; Dr. Joan Bailey, Deputy HM Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire and Matthew Studdert-Kennedy, Learning Co-ordinator for Shuttleworth.

Matthew Studdert-Kennedy, Learning Co-ordinator for Shuttleworth said: “We couldn’t be more pleased to have welcomed Girlguiding Bedfordshire to Shuttle-

worth, and are delighted to have been able to launch this exciting new project together. We hope this will be the first step in a lasting partnership.”

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— OCTOBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

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Stalwart of the community remembered

Bedford High Street works move to overnight working

WITH Phase 2 of the Bedford High Street improvement works on track to finish ahead of schedule, the next stage of works on the east of St Paul’s Square begins.

FOLLOWING the death of Balbir Atwal, a well respected member of the Shaheedi Sports Council fellow committee members donated £1000 to the British Heart Foundation (BHF) in his memory.

Balbir died in August suddenly at the age of 62 of a heart attack whilst at work in his post office in Goldington Road, Bedford.

As well as being chair of Shaheedi Sports for 15 years, he was also a prominent member of the Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara in Kempston.

Along with the donation from his fellow committee members, friends and customers of his post office raised an additional £1556 for BHF. On Monday, September 13, a ceremony was held at Kempston Town Hall where Balbir had served as the Mayor in 2006/7. Sarah Cunningham from the British Heart Foundation (Beds & Cambs area) was on hand to receive a cheque.

Pictured here at the ceremony are some of the members of the Shaheedi Sports Council Committee: Sarwan Mander, Shaminder Garcha, Balwant Gill, Jaswant Gill, and Balbir Randhawa.

Sunny Atwell, Balbir’s son (second from the left), presented the cheque. Also present was the current Mayor of Kempston, Cllr Carl Meader.

In consultation with businesses and restaurants in the area, the decision has been made to carry out this stage of works overnight only from 8pm to 5am. This started at 8pm on Sunday, September 19.

It is expected that night works will be complete by the end of October.

During the works, the pavement will be widened creating more space for pedestrians, shoppers and visitors to St Paul’s Square. Infrastructure works will also be carried out with new traffic signals being installed. The widened footpath will also be finished with the York stone paving now in place on the High Street, creating a matching attractive look across this area of the town centre.

With the footpath space being narrower while the works are carried out, the anticipated footfall during the day with more relaxed COVID-19 restrictions, and the operating times of restaurants and businesses it is hoped that overnight works will minimise the disruption caused.

It will also help to ensure that the works can be carried out efficiently, maintain the high quality of work seen so far, and provide a safe environment for the crews working and the public.

Cllr Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Highways said “We recognise that overnight works may cause some noise disturbance overnight, and we apologise for that. The Council and our contractor on this project, Henderson and Taylor, have done a letter drop to all businesses and resi-

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dents providing information and out of hours contact details, and the noisiest elements such as slab cutting will be done before midnight and behind an enclosed zone to reduce the noise.

“So while you won’t see anyone on site during the day, please be reassured we are still working hard to get this exciting and important project complete.

“This Transporting Bedford project has already seen great improvements on our High Street, with the single traffic lane, upgraded pavements with York stone, new trees and a more attractive street scene. We are seeing investment in our town centre through a number of different schemes including this, the Heritage Action Zone, and the Town Deal, looking ahead to the future of our town.”

The Beds Bulletin and Kempston Calling are independent publications part of Rosetta Publishing Ltd. Published by ©2021 Rosetta Publishing Limited 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest, Bedford MK44 1SH Tel: 07894 935952 Editorial: editorial@rosettapublishing.com Advertising: advertising@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Iliffe Print Cambridge Ltd. Winship Road, Milton, Cambridge CB24 6PP Regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC IMPRESS. 16-18 New Bridge Street, London, EC4V 6AG T 020 3325 4288 E complaints@impress.org.uk w impress.press To view our complaints policy, please visit our website www.rosettapublishing.com

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MID BEDS EDITION

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2021 —

Two tier school SIGHTS SET system is CBC’s ON PARIS preferred option 2024 VILLAGERS fighting to save two rural Bedfordshire schools have been denied a separate consultation process over their future.

Instead three options are on the table for Dunton CofE VC Lower School and Wrestlingworth CofE VC Lower School, a meeting heard.

A ‘Save Dunton and Wrestlingworth village schools’ petition was presented to Central Bedfordshire Council’s children’s services overview and scrutiny committee in April.

The petition asked for these schools to be consulted on separately from the Biggleswade cluster because of the specific needs in that area, councillors were told.

CBC wants to move to a two-tier primary and secondary model of education, under its Schools for the Future programme.

Deputy director of children’s services Sarah Ferguson updated the committee this week on a Have Your Say consultation for the Biggleswade cluster.

“We’re proposing all lower schools in Biggleswade and the surrounding area will become primary schools,” she said.

“The first of three options for Dunton and Wrestlingworth is both schools would stay on their current sites and become primary schools.

“The second is to amalgamate the schools on the Dunton site and create a one-form entry primary .

“And the other is to amalgamate and relocate both schools to a new site on the land east of Biggleswade.

by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter “The site constraints for those schools suggest we need to know whether it’s possible for them to remain there.

“Biggleswade Academy, which is currently a middle school, would become a primary.”

The housing infrastructure fund (HIF) for several projects in the Biggleswade area includes a new secondary school east of the town, with a £14m Homes England contribution towards that project, she added.

“Edward Peake Middle School would move to the land east of Biggleswade and become a secondary school, while Stratton Upper would be a secondary school as well.

“There’s also a need to resolve the future of Potton Middle School.

And we’ve an agreement with Homes England, which includes a 16- to 18-year-old element, around the principle of sixth form provision for the town.”

Conservative Cranfield and Marston Moretaine councillor Sue Clark said: “When the petition was presented we couldn’t comment on it because it was ahead of this consultation.

“We’ve developed the three options being consulted on for these two schools responding to the high

Flitwick Scouts open the locks

EIGHT Flitwick Scouts took the opportunity to steer a 72 foot long narrowboat into and out of locks and under some bridges last month.

The event which had been postponed three times.

They set off from Leighton Buzzard on Friday evening and navigated their way along the Grand Union canal to Campbell marina in Milton Keynes. They then turned round on the Saturday evening and arrived back on Sunday afternoon. Edmund Jarrett said, “The best part of the weekend was steering the boat around some of the bends and trying to avoid the banks and trees.” Adult volunteer Nicky Taylor said, “It’s amazing how quickly the Scouts gained the

confidence to steer the boat and worked as a team getting the boat into and out of the locks.”

Lead volunteer for the Group Darren Reeve said, “It’s great to see Beavers (boys and girls aged 6 to 8), Cubs (boys and girls aged 8 to 10) and Scouts (boys and girls aged 10 to 14) back face to face again. The last 18 months have been difficult, but we’ve risen to the challenge and our numbers are now back to what they were before the pandemic started. All of the sections have got some amazing programmes planned for the next few months.”

For further information about Flitwick Scouts, please visit www.flitwickscoutgroup.org.uk

level of public interest to the rumours around them.

“We’ve addressed the concerns being raised by the petitioners.

Every school has informed its stakeholder group about this consultation.

“Sarah has been to Biggleswade Town Council. All the schools have been extremely involved in developing the options in front of us.

“It would be difficult to have a separate consultation about these Dunton and Wrestlingworth because they’re part of this family of schools in the area.

“We’ve met the requirements of the petition,” added councillor Clark, who’s deputy council leader and executive member for families, education and children.

“We’ve listened carefully and adjusted the consultation on the back of what we heard.

“As with the earlier clusters, we’ve changed things from the feedback before then going to statutory consultation.”

Parent governor representative Lorraine King said: “Can I suggest we agree with the steps taken and request it’s clear in that feedback what the outcomes were for these two schools to see how residents’ views were taken into account?”

Keen runner Dema Aktaa, 27, lost her leg in an explosion when her Syrian village was attacked in August 2012.

After coming to the UK in 2017 as a refugee, charity ‘my AFK’ (Action for Kids) helped her find funding for a running blade costing £13,500. Dema has now been able to start training again, and hopes to compete in the next Paralympics in Paris in 2024.

Dema lives in Flitwick, with her family, is studying interior design. She said: “When we were attacked, a bomb exploded, I went from the living room to the balcony and straight away, I lost my leg. It was a shock, of, but there was no point getting too upset about it! It’s hard to accept for the first few years, but after that you have to work with it, because it’s not going to change. But it’s life and I’m happy now because it makes me unique.”

“I moved to Lebanon and then six years later, I came to the UK with my family as a refugee. “Before my accident I was a keen runner, competing in school competitions.

When I arrived in the UK, I wanted to give something back. I decided to do a sponsored walk for Choose Love which supports refugees. I was delighted to raise around £1,000.

“One of my friends, Ben suggested I start fundraising to try to buy a blade so I could get running again, ‘my AFK’ saw my fundraising page and got in touch. And it all went from there.”

Julia Paylor, my AFK Advocacy and Mobility Manager said: “We really wanted to help. Dema had already raised some funds from a sponsored walk with her friend Ben. We agreed that we would part fund her running prothesis, and that I would also apply to a number of different charities on her behalf. So I applied to five or six charities, most of whom were also really struck by her story and wanted to help.’

“Dema now has her running prothesis and she’s sent us videos of herself learning to use it. It’s so lovely to see her rekindle the passion she had before her injury.”

Dema added: “Running with the blade feels almost like flying! It means a lot to me and I can’t thank the people who helped me enough. This summer, I’ve been really enjoying watching the Paralympics and hope to be in Paris myself in 2024.”

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— OCTOBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

Keep up-to-date go to: www.rosettapublishing.com/bulletin

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD Park Proms, celebrated their 25th Anniversary in August with a spectacular classical picnic concert, complete with laser show and firework finale!

The Proms show is a firm family favourite and guest vocalists of the night were opera star and TV sensation Wynne Evans and soprano Victoria Joyce.

However it was a very special guest appearance

by Hannah Ingram-Moore and Benjie Ingram-Moore, which became a very poignant and emotional moment of the show.

The music came to a halt for Hannah and Benjie to talk about their late father/grandfather Captain Sir Tom Moore and his amazing legacy and achievement of raising £38.9m in three and a half weeks.

Hannah Ingram-Moore continues to raise further funds and awareness in her Fathers honour, at The Captain Tom Foundation. Captain Tom and family remained always at the local heart of the community.

Grandson Benjie spoke about the importance of

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family, he said: “Please treasure your parents, please treasure your grandparents, they are absolutely incredible, please don’t take them for granted. Living with my grandfather was my biggest pleasure.”

Benjie Ingram-Moore Daughter Hannah went onto announce that the promoter of Bedford Park Concerts, Mark Harrison is giving 8000 tickets away to NHS workers for just a nominal charge of £1 for the 2022 Proms concert.

This £1 will be donated straight back to the NHS and given to The Bedford Hospital Charity. Hannah went onto thank the audience and our amazing NHS, she said: “Thank you for ensuring my father’s lasting legacy of hope lives on.”

Bedford Park Proms 25th Anniversary (Part 2) takes place on Sunday, July 31, 2022.

Tickets for NHS workers are on sale and can be purchased from: https://www.bedfordparkconcerts. co.uk/events/bedford-park-proms-2022-tickets/

Ageing Well Festival and Exhibition Wednesday 13th October 2021 Bedford Corn Exchange 10am to 2pm

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8000 tickets for next year’s Bedford Proms on sale to NHS workers for £1

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2021 — 5

MBB EDITION

Numbers of special needs children requiring school places set to double

THE 52 special educational needs and disability (SEND) children without school places in Central Bedfordshire will be nearly double that figure by Christmas, a parent has warned.

“Those we’ve been told about are the tip of the iceberg,” according to Amy Ivins, from Dunstable.

“There are plenty more skeletons in the closet,” she told a meeting of Central Bedfordshire Council’s children’s services overview and scrutiny committee.

“Many parents are reporting CBC has missed the 20 weeks statutory deadline for completing their child’s education health and care plan (EHCP) by weeks or even months,” she said.

“It means their child was denied the chance to even go to panel to request a specialist placement because of CBC’s failures.

“And what about the 148 or more children on part-time timetables, many of which will be the result of their mainstream

by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter

school being unable to meet their needs any more?

“Central Beds has one of the highest rates of exclusion of SEND children in the country.

How many of these children need specialist places?” she asked.

“Then there are the local home education forums packed with autistic children whose parents have no choice but to give up on Central Beds.

“And the young adults whose provision was closed down at short notice and replaced with a community hall. That 52 will probably be 102 by Christmas.

“How worthless must these children feel knowing their local authority puts so little value on them or their education.”

Ms Ivins was speaking on behalf of the Central Bedfordshire SEND Action Group.

“There are 11 disabled chil-

CLOSED DOWN

dren with no school to attend this year and another 41 sent back to mainstream, after your own expert panel agreed it can’t meet their needs,” she explained.

“This was all entirely predictable and preventable. Please don’t insult the families outside by pretending it’s a surprise.

“The reality is any recent increase in demand is the result of years of complacency and of unlawful barriers to assessment for children with special needs.

“You’ve been caught suppressing EHCPs and now you’re dealing with the consequences.

The mainstream schools have exhausted every avenue to support these children.

“I know from personal experience most of these families face a very difficult year ahead, exclusions, part-time timetables, physical restraint and social isolation.

“For the parents, there’s loss of income and employment, mental health and relationship breakdowns, and zero respite.

“For the schools, there’s a massive strain on resources causing a detrimental effect to mainstream children as well,” she added.

“Education feels like a luxury commodity in the SEND com-

er you may think. I know you’ve raised some of these points before.

“It’s not good enough that we’ve children having to wait up to a year for a special school place.

“I can see it’s heartbreaking for families, and I can only imagine the uncertainty and anxiety that comes with waiting for a school place.

“I’ve been talking to a lot of parents worried and upset. As a parent myself, I understand that.

“While I know it’s no comfort for the families anxiously waiting, we’ve met our statutory duty for special school places.”

munity, something only the lucky few will get and only then through years of fighting, lost education, expensive tribunals and watching our children fall apart.

“I’m tired of telling you what the problems are and the complete lack of change has led to the protest outside.”

Deputy council leader and executive member for families, education and children Sue Clark replied: “I understand you’re very frustrated and angry and I can hear it in your voice.

“I’m listening to you, whatev-

FRUSTRATED

Support for families with a loved one with an addiction

ONE of the first support groups aimed solely at families caring for someone with a drug or alcohol addiction is being offered in Bedfordshire.

Local charity Carers in Bedfordshire have joined forces with Milton Keynes based DAFS (Drug Alcohol Family Support) to form a group for families of loved ones with an addiction. The group aims to help families to cope, reduce fears, talk through what is happening around them with people that can relate and understand, to help them to laugh again and above all give hope that things can change.

Support Worker at Carers in Bedfordshire Nicola Harris (pictured), who has been instrumental in setting up the group, said: “There are many support groups out there for those with addictions to help that person to become less dependent on drugs or alcohol, and help them to live a healthier lifestyle. However, there is little support out there for the families involved in looking after someone with an addiction, which can have a devastating effect on loved ones.

“We know following lockdown the number of people out there with drug and alcohol problems has dramatically increased and dealing with a family member with addictions can make you feel extremely isolated, stressed, frustrated and worried. We want to support you, give you confidence that there is a group in Bedfordshire that can give you confidentiality, a safe place for you to express any concerns, to ask for advice or to simply make friends with people who have had lived in experiences of loved ones with addictions.

“We know how hard it is to come forward and admit your

HOLIDAY CLUB Weekdays throughout the school holidays Excludes bank holidays, contact reception for available dates.

loved one has a problem. But we promise you it is a safe, confidential environment and you’ll be pleased for making that first step in helping you to cope better.”

The group meet on the second Wednesday of the month, at the Carers in Bedfordshire office, in the Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford. The next meeting will be October 13.

Carers in Bedfordshire provides support for unpaid carers throughout Bedfordshire. A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for their friend or family member who due to illness, disability, mental health problems or an addiction, cannot cope without their support, or need extra help as they grow older.

If you care for someone with an addiction contact Carers in Bedfordshire on 0300 111 1919 and visit www.carersinbeds.org.uk /events/drug-and-alcohol-familysupport-group/2021-09-15/ for further information about the group and to register.

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— OCTOBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Darcey shows a stroke of excellence

CASTLE Newnham is proud to have a ‘Star’ rower in the school. Darcey Murphy, 13, was selected by Star Rowing Club to take part in the inaugural “Centurian Challenge”, an initiative set up by London Youth Rowing (LYR).

The centurion’s task was to complete 100km in 24 hours. With the support of multiple quad crews throughout the period Darcey rose to this mammoth challenge and completed it cheered on by the club, family and friends. It wasn’t a race; it was about endurance.

Darcey began rowing just two years

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ago, following in the footsteps of her dad who was also a rower. She showed a natural aptitude for rowing, impressing her coaches and squad mates from the beginning.

Andrew Triggs Hodge, a three-time triple Olympic champion, four-time world champion and working with LYR, telephoned to congratulate Darcey on her achievement. He said, “As our youngest Centurion, Darcey is an inspiration. To take on this challenge at such a young age, we are very impressed.”

Ruth Wilkes, Federation Principal at

Castle Newnham says “Here at Castle Newnham School, we are incredibly proud of Darcey and the honour she has achieved of representing her club as a centurion. This is not only an amazing achievement and opportunity for Darcey personally but also brings forward work to support local state schools in promoting rowing which will open up further opportunity for young people in Bedford.”

The Star Club is currently running a ‘dry start’ programme, in partnership with two schools in Bedford, aimed at

introducing young people to indoor rowing, and to provide opportunities at the club to take up the sport.

By working with LYR and raising funds from the Centurion Challenge, Star Club will employ a Community Coach to run the dry start programme, and will expand the project to working with six schools in the local area.

For more information about the programme contact the Star Club on 01234 212070 or to donate this initiative visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/ StarClubCenturionChallenge

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IN just a few day’s time, people will step out for a very special walk to celebrate the lives of loved ones and raise vital funds for their local hospice.

Walk to Remember – Bedford, sponsored by M&DH Insurance Services Ltd, will see people come together for a 5k walk on Sunday October 10, in support of Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger.

They will walk along Bedford Embankment and through Russell Park, placing a poignant dedication along the way in honour of those special to them.

One of the walkers preparing to lace up her trainers is Hilary Holmes, 53, from Godmanchester.

She will be walking to remember her dad, Dave Sharman, who was cared for at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in 2018.

Dave was a well-known figure to many in the local community, serving as a Sandy town councillor and deputy mayor. He volunteered for the RSPB in Sandy and the Ivel Valley Conservation Volunteers, and also sang with the St Swithun’s Singers at Sandy parish church.

Since her dad died, Hilary has fundraised for the hospice to “give something back” in his honour.

She is preparing to participate in Walk to Remember – Bedford in October with her best friend Vicky by her side.

Her support hasn’t stopped there – Hilary also ran 5k at the

l l l l

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“I cannot thank Sue Ryder enough for the care they provided to my dad and us as a family,” said Hilary.

“My dad went into Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice from Bedford Hospital for what was meant to be a short stay while the doctors decided on the next steps for his treatment for pancreatic cancer.

Dad knew he wasn’t going to get better, and made it clear that when the time came if he couldn’t be at home he wanted to be cared for at St John’s.

“On the first day he was in the hospice, I remember the lady who did the food asking him what he wanted for dinner. He asked what his choices were and she replied ‘You can have whatever you like.’

He enjoyed poached egg on toast that evening.

“Another time, he told my mum he had a shower. When asked how, as he was very weak by then, he said two nurses had been with him and had not left his side and put loads of talc on him. There were many other times that also showed the respect and dignity the staff gave to my dad.

“Not only did they look after dad with so much kindness and respect, they also helped us as a family. They listened and talked to us and checked we were OK. They made sure we knew what was happening and did so in such a compassionate way. There were a number of things the Sue Ryder Nurses did that just helped us get through such a difficult time.”

She added: “I wanted to give something back to Sue Ryder to show them how grateful we are for the care and support they provided us. It is also a way of honouring my dad. My dad did a lot for the local community and loved to chat with people.”

Sign up now for Walk to Remember – Bedford at www. sueryder.org/walkbedford

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2021 —

MBB CAHNGE

7

Improving the quality and experience of market days in Biggleswade

by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter

A POLICY for its markets has been agreed by B i g g l e s w a d e To w n Council with some minor changes.

And an overall market strategy will return for approval by councillors once the final draft has been revised by a working group.

Deputy mayor Grant Fage explained some of the key policy areas being focused on are: l a slight increase to the market hours;

SANDY TWINNING ASSOCIATION

l the option for lower pitch fees for regular traders, “which is being left relatively open”; l slightly tighter standards over food hygiene, “which is a positive thing”; l some wording to support buskers who attend the market and “make sure they’re properly governed by our policy”; l and also “keeping the wording open to seek some payments up front so we’re handling less cash”.

Meg Green and Hannah Able from ‘Made in the Wade’ have been used as consultants during the process to provide fresh ideas on marketing, development and strategy.

Councillor Fage told a council town centre management meeting:

activities please contact Martin Pettitt on 680082 (martin.pettitt@virginmedia.com) or Max Hill on 681469 (amaxhill@outlook.com)

WE are maintaining regular contacts with both Malaunay and Skarszewy and the two communities are experiencing contrasting fortunes pandemic-wise at present.

France has currently about half the number of new infections of the UK and Poland just a couple of hundred new daily cases.

Restrictions are now minimal and life in Skarszewy seems to be back to normal and there has been no third wave of the pandemic so far. However the levels of testing are much lower in both countries, especially Poland,and vaccination levels are some way behind us, ‘though France is catching up.

It is fair to say that the likelihood of being able to hold the 40th celebrations with Malaunay next May is increasingly in the balance due to the uncertainties surrounding the pandemic and the measures which governments both sides of the channel will have in place. We have agreed the weekend (May 7-9) but both committees are as yet unsure what level of response from members will be forthcoming. It is very much wait and see at present.

For any information about our link town’s or the Association’s

WE have now received 35 requests for stalls at this year’s Christmas Lights event, more than ever before, and there is already a waiting list. The fairy on stilts has been booked as has the stage.

More details as planning progresses but for the moment please note the date of the switch-on which will be Sunday November 28.

What we need above all is help with the planning and especially on the day itself. Meetings are few and far between so demands on time are not excessive.

Like so many community groups we have lost members during the pandemic for one reason or another and the group needs to rebuild. If you would like to help in some way or other with what is traditionally Sandy’s largest community event of the year, you will be most welcome.

To express an interest please contact either the Town Council or: friendsofsandychristmaslights @outlook.com

Chairman Ann Taylor welcomed members to the first meeting of the TWG since March 2019, on Monday, September 13. The guild have taken the opportunity to change the time of our meetings to the afternoons instead of the evening and have changed location to the Orchard Community Centre in Kings Reach.

Minutes of the last meeting were read and then home made cakes and drinks were served in order that members could have a good old gossip and catch up.

Many had not seen one another since pre-covid.

Guild walks have continued as

and when government guidance have allowed and the next walk will be Thursday, September 23 meeting at Deepdale for a walk at Sandy mast.

The next meeting will be on Monday, October 11, when George Howe will give a talk and slide show on Switzerland by Train. The competition will be something beginning with the letter ‘S’.

The guild meets on the second Monday of the month 2pm at the Orchard Community Centre, Sullivan Court, Biggleswade new member and visitors are very welcome.

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“The current market policy we’ve always known would require some changes.

“We went out to consultation with the traders during the course of a few weeks,” he said.

“We accepted their feedback and made some further alterations.

It’s that final version we now have.”

He explained that the market strategy has still to be discussed fully by the working group.

“The process of onboarding traders is now back entirely with council staff where it should be, which was something of a grey area before.

“It will free up Meg and Hannah’s time to driving footfall and enticing new traders to the market, which is what we want.

“We’re leaving open space here because there’s flexibility required with certain market traders, and there are some who don’t have access to the internet.”

Councillor Duncan Strachan said: “I’ve been to the market recently and there are one or two stalls which expand beyond their permitted area.

“I’m concerned there’s a spread of some beyond the specified space and one in particular, the plant stall,

which seems to be taking up more than two pitches.

“It does seem to be in breach of the rules, if I’ve understood those correctly.”

Councillor Mark Knight, who chairs the town centre management committee, replied: “There’s now a charge for a single stall, a double stall, or a larger than a double, which allows for the bigger ones with the superintendent’s approval.”

Both the town centre management committee and the full town council have agreed to adopt the policy, with some minor changes, and continue with the market strategy until the working group has revised it.

An earlier agenda report said: “This is a priority for the town cen-

tre to ensure the market can thrive and make it a draw for people into this area.

“No vans should be allowed on to the market as per the policy, with the only exception for those whose van forms part of the stall, such as the fish or the vintage clothes stall.

“Pitches would be either 10ft by 10ft, or 2 by 10ft by 10ft, no bigger and there should be no trading from outside of these measurements.”

There are “about 14 regular weekly traders, as well as some who appear on alternate weeks and others who trade entirely casually,” it added.

“Further consideration is needed to identify measures that will encourage retail park shoppers to visit the town centre.”

SANDY TOWN COUNCIL gs Council meetinexce pt

All meetings commence at 7.30pm h Development Scrutiny (Planning) whic mber, starts at 6.45pm in the Council Cha 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy, SG191JE da). (unless otherwise stated on the Agen ber Due to the size of the Council cham and the potential number of people present, Councillors, officers and ed to members of the public are encourag ting. mee the g durin rings cove wear face Monday 4th October 2021 Development Scrutiny t Community Services & Environmen Monday 18th October 2021 Development Scrutiny Policy Finance & Resources Monday 1st November 2021 Town Council r See our website for details of othe s. ting mee AND ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC END. ATT TO E COM WEL ARE S PRES

Remembrance Parade and Service San

dy Town Council, the San District Branch of the Roy dy and al Legion and St. Swithun’s British Parish Church are glad to be able to wo rk organise a more traditio together to nal Remembrance parade and year. Plans for the event service this are finalised and we look for now being wa ing our community to com rd to invitagain to share in honour e together ing all those who serve to defend our democratic freedoms and way of life .

Look out for more details Council’s website and Fac on the ebook page later in the month.

Three Green Wheel Challenge It was a beautiful, sunny morning on Saturday 11th September when around 30 local residents met in Sandy Market Square to kick off the Three Green Wheel Challenge with a walk of the Sandy Green Wheel.

The group included lots of local rambling enthusiasts and one furry friend, as well as two of Sandy’s Central Bedfordshire Ward Councillors and a representative from Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity, which helps to manage the Riddy nature reserve. Town Councillor Amanda Gibson led the walk and helped to keep the group together. Walkers chatted, getting to know one-another along the way and everyone enjoyed a very pleasant morning out in our local countryside.

The Three Green Wheel Challenge, a part of the Bedfordshire Walking Festival Programme, was to complete the circular routes in Sandy, Biggleswade and Etonbury over the weekend. A handful of determined participants, including Councillor Gibson, successfully completed all 3 routes.

However, many more joined in with part of the event, and enjoyed exploring a new, or familiar part of the Bedfordshire landscape.

A number of the Sandy walkers raced over to Biggleswade to join its walk on Saturday afternoon, which started and finished at Jordans Mill. Another member of Bedfordshire RCC led this walk, sharing some fascinating knowledge of the countryside and the amazing agricultural and industrial heritage of the local area.

The Etonbury walk spanned the middle of Sunday. Its membership changed as some people joined and left at different parts of the 10.6 mile route and the lunch stop at Fairfield green was warmly welcomed by all.

If you’d like to take part in future group walks, make sure to keep an eye on Sandy Town Council’s Facebook page and website.

k survey open public Sandy SkateparSkat eparks were excited to begin the

Sandy Town Council and Maverick month, with of the Sandy Skatepark Project last n concept engagement and consultation stage desig l initia the lop deve your help to the launch of a public survey. We need to create a space that is nd, Grou n eatio Recr Road d erlan feedback for the new skatepark in Sund riders in Sandy. Make sure to give your truly designed for the community of ber!

Octo midcloses in through the online survey before it : lved invo get It’s easy to 4. If you’d like to be involved in the ing forward, 1. Go to: and skatepark design process mov address www.maverickskateparks.co.uk/sandy il ema your r ente to make sure enter the password: MAVERICK (case before submitting your answers. If you sensitive) an email address, message the n, don’t have 2. Take a look at the initial concept desig of Sandy Skatepark Project at: www.facens which includes images and descriptio book.com/SandySkateparkProject the different features. ey, we will be holding m of After the online surv 3. Answer the questions at the botto ent and information gem enga face to t the face to follow the Sandy the page to tell us what you like abou t forge ’t sessions. Don like, book page to hear concept design, anything you don’t Face ct Proje k epar Skat see and share anything else you’d like to about our next steps! included or changed.

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

8

— OCTOBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

SAMANTHA Laycock along with her team have made the shortlist for this year’s Sceptre Awards, being nominated for both Centre Manager of the Year and Community Initiative of the Year.

The Sceptre Awards nationally recognise the best practice and the best people in the shopping centre industry. They are the pre-eminent accolades, putting the spotlight on management teams, retailers and suppliers that demonstrate real excellence.

Due to her efforts and tireless work for both the centre and the town this past year, Samantha has been shortlisted for Shopping Centre Manager of the Year at the 2021 Sceptre Awards due to take place this November. Samantha has worked at Harpur Centre for fourteen years and is also Chair of Bedford BID and Chair of the Town Deal Board. For International Women’s Day, she was chosen as one of Nat West Bank’s 100 inspiring women!

Following Samantha’s successful bid, Bedford was granted £22.6million to drastically improve the area for the local community. Her goal has always been to make Bedford an amazing place to live and visit and ensure it stays that way long into the future.

Samantha responded quickly and effectively to the pandemic to allow the essential stores to trade and keep everyone safe. She worked throughout to provide good service, implemented one way systems

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Harpur Centre shortlisted for two prestigious industry awards and minimise waiting times and by offering her out of hour service to tenants to assist with their reopening preparations to ensure they didn’t miss any trade.

She got creative, implementing several out of the box initiatives including working with a tenant to use floristry to create barriers for the one-way system, saving plants which would be destroyed and creating vibrancy in the Centre.

The Centre bucked the trend, seeing four units go under offer during lockdown. Samantha is proud to say that the number of tenants in the scheme will be greater than before the pandemic began. These new offerings will create an enhanced tenant mix and aid to further increase footfall and dwell time.

As well as Samantha’s incredible individual achievement, the centre has also been shortlisted for Community Initiative of the Year, celebrating the

TENANT NUMBERS UP

success of their community campaigns over the past twelve months. Their campaign was centred around a celebration of local and national hero Sir Captain Tom Moore and our amazing NHS and key workers by installing a mural in tribute, sending the message that we are truly ‘stronger together.’

For Captain Tom’s 101st birthday, The Harpur Centre team walked 101 laps of the Centre in branded t-shirts to raise money for The Captain Tom Foundation. The community initiative was a huge success, reaching 100% of their target on the Just Giving page for the foundation and a further £300 in donations were made throughout the day with branded charity buckets. They were joined by the Centre’s gym Energie Fitness, who dressed in inflatable dinosaur suits and motivated the team with warmup activities. The event injected some muchneeded positivity into a difficult lockdown.

To honour Sir Tom’s legacy, the Centre installed a

giant yellow heart tying in with the national #LoveForTheLost campaign to raise awareness and honour loved ones lost due to coronavirus. The heart was placed by Sir Tom’s mural to show our support of those in our community who had been devastated by the pandemic.

Samantha Laycock, Harpur Centre Manager, commented: “For us just to be shortlisted in one category, let alone two, is outstanding and it wouldn’t have happened without the incredible team here at the centre who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic, supporting myself, our shoppers, and the retailers through a very trying year. I am exceptionally proud of the team and our marketing company for their efforts in delivering such a successful campaign that truly resonated with us and the local community.”

OUTSTANDING

Wednesday 13th October 2021

KIMBERLEY

OPEN EVENING

SIXTH FORM COLLEGE

Raising vital funds for ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

5-8pm Meet our staff and students.

Explore our incredible building and learning environment.

A top performing Sixth Form College as identified by The Sunday Times

To register your place at our open evening, please visit: www.kimberleycollege.co.uk

Presentations to support this event will be available on the website.

PLEASE NOTE: The event is subject to changes posed by evolving Covid restrictions.

Kimberley Sixth Form College Green Lane Stewartby Bedford MK43 9LY

RAINBOWS, Brownies, Guides, and Rangers from across Bedfordshire have raised £2,400 for ZSL Whipsnade Zoo after launching a wild new challenge in support of the conservation charity.

Over 1230 Girlguiding members completed fun animalinspired tasks at home while raising funds for the UK’s largest Zoo, which cares for over 10,000 animals, many of which are threatened in the wild and part of important global breeding programmes.

Taking action, Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, and Rangers took part in activities ranging from making butterfly corners or bird feeders to creating a wildlife garden at home, creating hedgehog houses, and renewing their plastic promise by making an animal sculpture from recycled items – all in support of international conservation charity ZSL (Zoological Society of London), which runs ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.

On September 18, many of the Girlguiding Bedfordshire members were able to visit the Zoo for a special day out to celebrate their fundraising efforts.

Cathriona Hickey, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo Engagement Manager said: “These have been some of the most challenging years in ZSL Whipsnade Zoo’s 90-year history and we are so grateful to Girlguiding Bedfordshire for their support and their incredible fundraising efforts. The activities they have completed as part of the wild new challenge are the perfect way to learn all about the wonders of the animal kingdom. We are so pleased they were able to visit us today and see the wonderful wildlife they raised vital funds to support.”

Joined by a selection of young members, ZSL was presented with a cheque by Girlguiding Bedfordshire County Commissioner Karen Keeling and the Dunstable Mayor Cllr Gloria Martin.

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2021 —

MID BEDS EDITION

9

Developer requesting easing of 106 commitments?

by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter REVISED developer contributions over plans for up to 1,500 homes east of Biggleswade should be minimal and justified with relevant evidence, a meeting heard.

Applicant UK Regeneration Limited’s outline proposals received planning permission in 2019 before being resubmitted last year for changes to the site access.

In agreeing this, Central Bedfordshire Council’s development management committee expected the Section 106 contributions to be honoured from the original scheme.

But a contribution towards the Lindsells crossing project can be dropped as CBC secured alternative funding,

LAWN DOCTOR

NO one moans or apparently, talks more about the weather, than the population of this tiny little island. Indeed, given the summer we have just had, even more people have found themselves berating the elements. From both a personal and a horticultural perspective, I for one have enjoyed the weather; after all, moaning about it is utterly futile. We get what we are given! I like the verdant landscape and healthy looking trees and I very much enjoy the fact, as do my clients I suspect, that I do not resemble the scuzzy old troll from under the bridge! (Or thinking about it, maybe I always do?!). But whatever the weather, the skilled gardener works with it and with a little prior thought, it is possible to save yourself a lot of unnecessary work. For example, delaying repairs to a lawn until a spell of rain is imminent.

If you are on a water meter, this will save money as well as time.

One job I get excited about at this time of the year, and one that young children often enjoy also, is seed collecting. Simply shake the seeds of those plants you want to see again into a paper bag, clearly mark and keep dry and cool. After a couple of weeks of drying, the seeds can be stored ready for sowing. Not sure when to plant?

Either look online or take a look at packets of seed hanging up in a nursery.

If you are thinking of trimming a hedge for the first time, April to August is the best time, but please be warned. I

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said a report to the committee.

The 263-acre site is linked to housing development in the Central Bedfordshire Local Plan.

It includes up to five acres of commercial development, 12.5 acres of primary school provision, ten acres of leisure and community proposals, and 150 acres of open space, allotments and a country park.

Planning officer Nik Smith explained: “When considering the application in November, the committee was explicit any Section 106 agreement should be at least materially the same as the first application in 2019.

“The applicant has subsequently approached the council to request the requirements of the Section 106 are revisited.

“A reduced education contribution is proposed and for the council to reconsider and justify a suite of other obligations.

was recently asked to look at a hedge that had been trimmed a few weeks before. In short, it has been killed. A charlatan company out there has cut far too deeply into a Leylandii and the net result is, instead of healthy green foliage, a hedge that looks like a contender for the world’s largest Shredded Wheat! Truly a tragic sight. Without any dominant buds, cut a Leylandii too short and it can not and will not regrow. Always remember not to cut into the old wood. Only ever cut the green shoots.

As with many things in life, the positives of growing a Leylandii are also its negatives; and although the speed of its growth can be useful, legally, a hedge in excess of 2 metres high is covered by the Anti Social Behaviour Act of 2003 which was then amended in 2005. Is a neighbour’s high hedge causing a problem? Talk with them a about a reduction and if there is still an impasse, contact your local council.

Another trimming job I have recently been asked about is the pruning and tidying of lavender. As soon as the flowers fade, trim the whole stem taking care not to cut into the wood.

Lavender can grow ‘leggy’, putting on a lot of growth and looking untidy but doing this can help maintain a compact shape and often prompts a little regrowth of the flowers.

If your intention is to plant bulbs this year, I have heard from a number of sources that the combination of the pandemic coupled with Brexit could lead to certain types being scarce so my advice is to act sooner rather than later.

Last month’s just for fun quiz question was: What common name was Dianthus Barbatus given to honour the Duke of Cumberland’s victory at the Battle of Culloden? The answer is Sweet William.

This month’s for fun question is: Montbretia, Dicentra Spectabilis and Japonica are all former names of plants regularly found in gardens in this country; what are their current names?

As usual, many thanks to all of you for contributing to this column; please keep your correspondence coming 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.

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“Officers don’t have delegated authority for the type of talks being requested by the applicant.

“The committee is being asked whether officers should or shouldn’t negotiate the heads of terms and whether a final set of these should be reported back to members.”

One large rather than two smaller primary schools should be provided, according to the applicant.

Independent Biggleswade South councillor Hayley Whitaker said: “We were sold this utopia of an amazing amount of green open space. My concern is that’s not what we’re going to get.

“We’re just consulting on the Schools for the Future programme and the town needs the money for the schools. A shortfall of £11.5m is something this council would have to make up.”

Agent for the applicant Andrew

Tildesley told the committee: “Today is a procedural matter.

“None of the contributions have been assessed or evidenced and no Section 106 talks with UK Regeneration have taken place,” he said.

“This process still needs to be concluded for a decision notice to be issued and to remove the risk of other parties seeking judicial review or legally challenge the council’s decision.

“Working with the council, UK Regeneration wants to provide the right level of contribution based on evidence and agreed with officers.”

Conservative Caddington councillor Kevin Collins referred to the “spirit of that original comment” for the Section 106 to be “substantially the same”, saying: “We would need to be persuaded by very good arguments why it’s significantly changed.

“We should be alive to the possibility,

Eleven years ago – October 2010 the Bulletin was born, admidst legal threats from some quarters!

if we’re reviewing the basis behind line items and how they’ve been calculated, to not rule out the possibility some figures might have increased.”

Conservative Dunstable Watling councillor Nigel Young suggested the need to avoid planning officers being “bogged down officers in lengthy negotiations.”

Conservative Biggleswade North councillor Ian Bond said: “The emphasis was on a high quality development. This has been promised as different to what’s being produced elsewhere around Biggleswade.

“If the contributions can’t be justified they should be renegotiated, otherwise you’re open to review. Both sides seem to want to sort this out and carry on.”

Councillors approved explaining the original amounts and commenting on revised proposals from the applicant, without detailed talks, and for the Section 106 outcomes to return to the committee.

Issue 1 Volume 1 OCTOBER 201 0

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The Bulletin is delivered to 4,574 homes in Sandy/Beeston, and 7,875 homes in Biggleswade?

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12

— OCTOBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

New Dean of St Albans appointed to serve Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis is delighted that Her Majesty The Queen has approved the nomination of The Venerable Joanne Kelly-Moore, Archdeacon of Canterbury and Residentiary Canon at Canterbury Cathedral, for election as Dean of St Albans, in succession to The Very Reverend Dr Jeffrey John following his resignation on March 31, 2021.

The role of the Dean of St Albans is to lead the life and work of the Cathedral Church of St Alban and to share with the Diocesan Bishop and other senior colleagues in the oversight of the Diocese of

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St Albans and in supporting its vision of ‘Living God’s Love’.

The Venerable Joanne Kelly-Moore will lead the Cathedral community in sharing and demonstrating the Gospel in the City of St Albans and across the counties of Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.

Commenting on the appointment, the Lord-Lieutenant said: “I am thrilled to welcome the new Dean of St Albans to the Diocese of Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.

“I know that the new Dean will receive a warm welcome from everybody, and we all look forward to working with her”

Ayesha’s in top 10% of engineers

AYESHA has achieved the elevated status of Senior Member of the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers).

IEEE is world’s largest technical professional organisation working for the advancement of technology, and ‘SMIEEE’ is the highest rank one can achieve at IEEE. This grade is achieved by only 10% of the 400,000 members of the organisation and according to the President and CEO Susan K Land: “requires extensive experience and reflects professional maturity and document achievements of significance.”

Ayesha has a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from University of Engineering & Technology, Lahore, Pakistan, served as a Lecturer at Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Management & Technology, Lahore, Pakistan for nine years, and is currently serving as a Course Manager and Lecturer in Engineering at The Bedford College Group, based at the Buchanan Advanced Engineering Centre in Bedford.

During 10 years of her professional experience, Ayesha has pro-

duced seven publications including a book chapter, served as a reviewer for various International Conferences & Organisations, as a judge at engineering project competitions, as an external examiner for Thesis Evaluation, and as a Subject Specialist in various different organisations.

Her journey with IEEE started in 2010 when she joined IEEE UET Student Chapter as a Cochair of Membership Committee as well as a member of WIE (Women in Engineering). Besides

being a Professional Member during last few years, she has published papers at IEEE and has also served as a Reviewer for IEEE Communication Surveys and Tutorials. She has been a member of IEEE Young Professional, IEEE Vehicular Technology Society & IEEE Communications Society as well.

“It is a matter of great pleasure and honour for me to be associated with the world’s largest technical professional organisation for Electrical & Electronic Engineers and I look forward to continuing my collaboration with IEEE at even greater heights,” said Ayesha, aged 33, who looks forward to encouraging more young females in UK to join the field of Engineering.

“When I was lecturing in University in Pakistan, many more of my students were young women who saw engineering as a valuable career. The female students I taught in Pakistan are also working as teachers as well as engineers in well-known companies. I wish to encourage females in UK also to become engineers and work in industry, teaching and research.”

Rotary seeks support for young peoples’mental health AFTER local fundraising events were postponed due to Covid-19, the Rotary Club of Bedford Park in Bedford has launched a crowdfunding campaign, using the GlobalGiving platform, to help local young people receive counselling for anxiety and depression.

Their campaign to ‘Accelerate Mental Health recovery in Bedford Youth’ hopes to raise at least £3,600.

This will provide an extra 240 one hour one-to-one therapy sessions at Bedford Open Door, which provides free counselling for young people aged 13-25 who live in or near Bedford.

Fewer than one in three children and young people with a diagnosable mental health condition get access to NHS care and treatment. 34% of those who do get

referred into NHS services are not accepted into treatment. As a result, Bedfordshire Open Door has a current waiting list of 70 young people. The Rotary campaign aims to cut that list significantly.

To find out more and to make a donation please visit https://globalgiving.org/projects/acceleratemental-health-recovery-in-bedford -youth/

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Over 500 young people attend Commissionerfunded boxing and martial arts sessions

POLICE and Crime Commissioner, Festus Akinbusoye funded free Boxing and Martial Arts classes for young people in Bedfordshire as part of his Summer of Fun programme.

This initiative formed part of his plans to invest in early intervention programmes to safeguard our young people, encourage healthy choices and improve self-esteem.

Commenting on the recently concluded summer of fun programme, Mr. Akinbusoye said: “I want to thank my office and our key partners for delivering these sessions across Bedfordshire in such a short period of time. It was a pleasure to join in on some of these in Luton, Leighton Buzzard, Bedford and other locations and seeing how much fun our young people were having was just fantastic.”

“With over 500 young people attending at least one of 22 sessions, it is clear to me that this is something we need to do again each summer. I want to thank the parents, our High Sheriff, Bedfordshire Police officers and local businesses who all helped to make this possi- away by the enthusiasm and ble by either bringing the children, engagement of the boys and girls donating food or helping with who attended, and the initiative logistics as well.” was a perfect antidote to a difficult Partners including Boxing Saves year many had experienced.

Lives, Ringcraft Boxing, and “We know the benefits Boxing Sendo-Ryu Martial Arts Association can bring to the physical and mental hosted the sessions at different loca- health of young people, and it was tions across the county. incredible to see Martial Arts showCommunity Policing Officer case how this unique perspective Shezad Ahmed said: “The summer can improve lives.” of fun was a great initiative and “We are grateful to the Police appreciated, not only by the kids and Crime Commissioner for who attended, but also by the par- standing by his promise to prioritise ents. It was great to support the intervention, and thank him and his event and being able to engage team for helping us shine a light on with the kids and build key rela- how we can be a guiding light tionships which will hopefully across Bedfordshire.” prove to be beneficial in the The Commissioner, in his future.” recently launched Police and Crime Commenting on the programme Plan has placed early intervention, JP Smith from Boxing Saves Lives partnership working and tackling said: “We were delighted to be a the causes of youth offending at the part of an incredible Summer of heart of police priorities in Fun and Focus. We were blown Bedfordshire.

Mark Rutherford is a finalist in the National Cyber Awards

security. Jacqueline Samosa, Assistant Headteacher at Mark Rutherford School says: “I am really pleased that the school is being recognised for the role that it plays in trying to raise awareness of the cyber issues that our young people face online on a daily basis. It is really important that we educate young people in how to manage these threats moving forward. The projects we are involved with do just that, both within the community and across continents but this is ongoing as the online environment is constantly changing.”

Kelli Foster, Headteacher, said: “What an achievement to be in the final of such a prestigious awards event that serves to recognise those who work hard to keep us all safe online. The work we do as a school aims to educate our young people, and those in the community, and also aims to inspire them moving forward.”

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School awarded prestigious Useful and Kind Schools’ Mark

THE whole school community at Priory Primary School in Bedford are celebrating after being awarded the Useful and Kind Schools’ Mark.

A Useful & Kind School is one characterised by care, compassion, creativity, equality, excellence and kindness. Everyone working together to support the development of our future prosocial leaders - those that will lead, live and act for the welfare of others and the world.

The Useful and Kind Schools’ Mark is an award that recognises and celebrates a school’s commitment to nurturing useful and kind behaviours and leadership across a whole school community.

Useful and Kind has become a shared way of being at Priory Primary – from day to day behaviours around the school to ‘Ambassadors’ working in the local community. A strong focus

on useful and kind behaviours and leadership is having a lasting impact on pupils, staff, parents and the wider local community.

The U&K Schools’ Mark Manager, Lyanne Young commended Priory Primary School: “We are delighted to confirm that your school has been awarded the U&K Schools’ Mark as recognition of your commitment to nurturing prosocial leadership. Huge congratulations to your whole school community!”

On receiving the award, Juliet Fraser, Headteacher said: “The journey to become a Useful & Kind School has been like having a friend walk alongside us! Thank you, U&K Unlimited. We have exciting plans to keep building our Useful & Kind ethos, expanding out into the world where our children will soon take charge. It will be in good hands!”

Take a look at Wootton Upper School Do you have a child in Year 8 looking for a place in September 2022 at an Upper School?

The deadline for Year 9 admissions is 31st October 2021. For a tour of our school and to learn about the wide range of course options available please ring and ask for the Admissions Secretary to book an appointment. igh praise from it dh s la e st eiv c e

Effective teaching, learning and assessment support pupils to make good progress

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THE purpose of the National Cyber Awards is to reward those who are committed to cyber innovation, cyber-crime reduction and protecting citizens online. Mark Rutherford School has been placed in the final of the education category for The Cyber School of the Year 2021 and will attend the awards ceremony in London on September 28.

One project the school is involved with is a competition that has run since 2013 aimed at students from Year 5 to Year 10 covering a variety of topics to do with cyber security and safety. The competition is run in collaboration with the British Computer Society (Bedford), Cranfield University and Bedfordshire Police in raising awareness of cyber issues within the community and beyond.

The school has also been working with Qufaro to run the Cyber Extended Project for students who want to delve deeper into cyber

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Teachers care about their pupils and have good relationships with them

An extensive extracurricular programme which underpins pupils spiritual, moral, social and cultural Teachers development Teachers have a have a high Wootton Upper School, high expectation expectation of Hall End Road, Wootton, of how pupils their pupils A well-designed Bedfordshire, MK43 9HT should behave curriculum which 01234 767123 allows pupils to choose wootton@wootton.beds.sch.uk from a wide range www.woottonupper.co.uk of option subjects www.facebook.com/WoottonUS/ www.pecreative.co.uk 21_0171

14

LETTERS

— OCTOBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

TO THE EDITOR

Poor comms from the management is causing concerns and anxiety for Bedford Borough staff

TO THE EDITOR: Walking in the fresh

air is something that many of us have appreciated more than ever since the pandemic began. As someone who tries to walk every day, I value the physical and wellbeing benefits that it brings – as well as the time to think and reflect.

I am writing to encourage your readers to put their best foot forward and take part in Sue Ryder’s Walk to Remember 2021.

Healthcare charity Sue Ryder is a cause that is close to my heart.

My daughter was cared for in her final days at one of Sue Ryder’s hospices, Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, in 2010. The compassionate care she received meant an awful lot to me and my family.

Sue Ryder does fantastic work, being there for families like mine.

However, it remains reliant on voluntary income and needs your readers’ support to ensure it can keep offering expert care.

This is why I want to tell you about how you can get involved with Walk to Remember this October.

It is an opportunity to get together with family and friends to celebrate the memory of your loved one, raise vital funds and help Sue Ryder fill someone’s last days with love.

Sue Ryder’s research shows more than half (54%) of the British public think that remembrance

events help them grieve. You can join hundreds of other supporters and walk 5k or 10k at one of Sue Ryder’s organised events – Walk to Remember in Bedford or Peterborough, or Starlight Hike in Cheltenham or Worth Valley.

You can also organise your own Walk to Remember and do 5k or 10k or a distance of your choice on any day during October. The charity’s research found more than two thirds of people (71%) have a special place they visit to remember someone who has died. Make it your Walk to Remember by deciding your start and finish line and a route that means something to you.

The funds raised will help Sue Ryder to support people through the most difficult times of their lives.

Sign up now at sueryder.org/ walk Sir Geoff Hurst MBE Former England footballer, World Cup winner and Sue Ryder Ambassador

The Bedford Borough Council Employee Partnership meeting (21 September 2021) was told by trade union rep Kiran Mal (Unison) that a lack of communication on returning to the workplace and potential restructuring is causing concerns and anxiety for Borough workers.

“What is happening with restructuring?”, she asked. “We appreciate that there have been many changes to senior management, but there have been no further communications to what is going on.”

She accepted that there has been some sharing of information, but “there’s been no formal introduction” to what the timescales are.

“Our members are requesting that we fall back to a situation where we would have drop-in centres where everyone would be updated in respect of what is taking place”, she said.

“There is a lot of concern for my members and it’s causing great anxiety at this moment in time.”

Alison Macaulay, manager for HR strategy & workforce development, said that the position on returning to the workplace remains unchanged and staff are continuing to work from home whenever possible.

“There are FAQs that are being prepared in relation to agile working and these are being shared with the trade unions before being communicated more widely,” she said.

Addressing the points on any potential restructuring, Ms Macaulay said: “The proposals are still being considered and as these emerge they will be shared through the appropriate mechanisms.

“Each directorate does have a change champion in place and they are representing the interests of the teams.

“So some staff can go to their change champion to ask questions.

The change champions and their role is included in the FAQs.” Councillor Sue Oliver (Labour, Kempston North Ward) said: “It is well-known that it is much better

Seven marathons in seven days

On Monday, October 4, 2021, Matt Pullinger (Matt P) and Matt Guest (Guesty) will be starting their week long challenge of 7 Marathons in 7 Days. Matt P is funding raising for Motor Neurone Disease Association and Guesty is running for Multiple Sclerosis. Their respective dads are living with these terrible diseases which is why they have taken on this mammoth challenge.

They will be running a total of 183.4 miles over the 7 days taking them from Kempston in Bedfordshire to Manchester where they will complete their challenge by completing the Manchester Marathon on Sunday 10th October 2021. During the run they will be passing through Wellingborough, Kettering, Market Harborough, Leicester, Beeston, Macclesfield before reaching their final destination.

They are both teachers in Bedfordshire, Matt P is Head of PE at Etonbury Academy in Arlesey and Guesty teaches PE at Kempston Challenger Academy.

Both schools are fully supporting them both with this challenge.

Matt P’s dad was diagnosed with MND in April 2020 during a year that everyone would rather forget, with the whole country in lockdown and nobody knowing what the future held. As the year 2021 began the Pullinger family wanted to think positively and started their Fightback Fund to contribute to the much needed fund raising for the MND Association.

Currently there is no cure for MND and the Association funds essential research into a cure and supports MND sufferers and their families to live life to the full. Matt has had to watch his dad’s health deteriorate over a short period of time where he now struggles to walk, speak or carry out day to day activities.

Guesty’s dad was diagnosed with MS in 1990 and has been fighting an unbeatable battle against this disease ever since. He has seen the nasty side of MS through his dad, with his mobility decreasing over time so that he now has to use a wheelchair for day to day life. He is fundraising for the local therapy centre which supports his dad.

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to tell people in advance and tell them several times in advance and not in retrospect.

“I think that has been the problem – perhaps not enough communication in advance of what was happening.

“When you’re busy at work you don’t always have the time to go through and gather that information, it is better that information

comes to you.”

Mark Stephens (acting chief executive) said: “I think there has been quite regular communications and I’ve had sessions with quite a number of staff members in different forums.

“I will contest that there has been no communication, but I will take on board the points that have been made.”

Borough has enough options for rough sleepers this winter BEDFORD Borough Council’s Housing Committee received an update on the levels of rough sleeping in the Borough at an informal meeting held on Wednesday, September 8, 2021.

Lee Phanco, chief officer for assessments applications and business support at the Council, said: “As of this morning, there are three people that have been sleeping rough in the town centre.

“One does have an offer of accommodation, but the other two are not engaging with services at the moment.

“And we still have two people living in rural areas in caravans that are not really suitable for permanent dwelling.

“They have been offered accommodation, but they are choosing to stay in their caravans.”

Since the last update to the Committee in March, Roger’s Court, Cauldwell Street in Bedford has opened. It has been converted to 20 self-contained flats.

“It was handed over (to the Council) at the beginning of August. We have 17 people living there and there are currently four vacant units”, Mr Phanco said.

He added that one unit was occupied by a couple, and offers have been made to people for the vacant flats.

“What we find sometimes is that it takes a little bit of time to get people to move in.

“Either they have been sleeping rough for a long time and making

by John Guinn – Local Democracy Reporter

the transition is difficult.

“Or they are settled in some other accommodation that we have been able to provide, but I’m confident that in the next few weeks it will be fully occupied.”

Councillor Stephen Moon (Conservative, Great Barford Ward) asked how long people are expected to stay at Rodgers Court.

Mr Phanco answered that Rodgers Court is a non-secure tenancy, “The expectation is that people will stay there for a maximum of two years, which is a condition of the grant funding”, he said.

“But in exceptional circumstances, people can stay for three years.”

He added that there isn’t a pressure to move people through, it’s about being able to support people until they are ready to move on.

Since the start of the pandemic, Mr Phanco said that the Council has been able to make an offer of accommodation to anybody that was sleeping rough or at risk of sleeping rough.

He expects this to continue, he said: “With the various accommodation options we’ve got now, plus the £120,000 in the Rough Sleeper Initiative Fund, we will be able to provide accommodation for anybody through the winter.”

PUBLIC NOTICE

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View from the Rt Revd

Richard Atkinson

The Bishop of Bedford

‘ENTERTAINING ANGELS’

Four guests were expected for dinner. Unlike, however, our normal entertaining we knew none of those who were invited. My wife and I experienced some anxiety about who would turn up! My cooking felt more under examination than ever before!

They were coming because they had purchased ‘dinner for four cooked by the Bishop’ in an on-line auction in aid of the Beds and Herts Historic Churches Trust – indeed they had been generous in their bid. And whereas I had naively assumed they would probably be supporters of the Trust who we knew, this was not the case.

Travelling from Wales they were a group of four who enjoyed what they called ‘ecclesiastical pilgrimage’. Normally they visited a cathedral but this time the opportunity of dinner with a bishop seemed something different! They were lovely. Great company, stimulating conversationalists and appreciative of my culinary efforts! We had entertained angels unawares.

The letter to the Hebrews exhorts us all to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it (Hebrews 13:2) The invitation is to take risks with others because in reaching out with generosity we so often receive more than we expect.

Some of my colleagues have been extending hospitality to asylum seekers not least those who have recently arrived from Afghanistan. They have been ‘strangers’ brought to a new place as they escape the Taliban regime. Yet, again and again, as I have listened to those reaching out to them, I have heard of people receiving much, if not more than they have given. They have received from these displaced ‘guests’ not just gratitude, but the offering of their stories, courage, and personal gifts. As so often is the case, when we break down those divisions of culture, language and identity, we are enriched by the experiences of the other.

This reminds me of another powerful image of hospitality in the Bible which is that shown by Andrei Rublev in his icon of the Trinity. It depicts the account of three angels visiting Abraham at the Oak of Mamre (Genesis 18:1-8). It represents both the generosity at the heart of God and the gift that comes from strangers – Abraham’s wife, Sarah, is told to her surprise that she will have a child.

Which ‘strangers’ will you entertain? For in doing so you may well entertain angels unawares!

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2021 —

In Focus with

In Focus with

Dave

Yasin

by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford

MP for Bedford and Kempston

PROTECTING OUR LIBRARY SERVICE

COST OF LIVING CRISIS

Libraries are very important and I am glad that not only have we protected all our libraries from closures we have actually extended our library service by the introduction of Library Plus.

Over 800 libraries have closed across the country since 2010, whereas in Bedford Borough we have introduced LibraryPlus which has allowed us to extend opening hours, including the first Sunday openings at Bedford Central Library.

LibraryPlus has been successfully running at Bedford Central, Bromham and Wootton libraries since 2017.

In that time, over 12,000 library users have registered for LibraryPlus, taking advantage of a more flexible and convenient service with increased overall opening hours, including Sunday and Bank Holiday opening at Bedford Central Library.

LibraryPlus provides a mixture of staffed hours as well as using technology to allow access to customers during unstaffed, self-service hours. During the self-service hours, LibraryPlus customers can enter the libraries to browse the shelves, borrow and return items, use the computers, study and work.

Earlier this year the Council consulted on the extension of LibraryPlus to Kempston and Putnoe libraries which was supposed by a majority of residents.

LibraryPlus will enable these libraries to be open for more hours overall, we are aiming to increase opening hours from 30.5 per week to 48.5 hours at Kempston and 49.5 hours at Putnoe, whilst still providing core staffed hours where library users can speak to and get assistance from staff.

To ensure that libraries are used safely, LibraryPlus uses a range of systems to t support customers during self-service hours, including CCTV monitoring, help points and public announcements.

LibraryPlus has enabled people to use their local library in a more flexible way, and has seen our libraries open more, for example, opening hours at Bedford Central Library went up from 48 to 60 hours every week after it was introduced in 2017.

In October, 11,690 Universal Credit claimants in Bedford and Kempston, 40% of whom are working, will have their Universal Credit uplift removed. Families and the 7,889 children in Bedford and Kempston will suffer as a result of the £20 a week cut, which can make the difference between families holding their heads above water or not.

The people who have written to me—some single parents, some living with a disability, but all struggling to manage despite working long hours and juggling childcare, fear this will tip them over the edge into destitution and homelessness.

The Government knows this – because a host of charitable organisations and a sizable number of MPs on their own benches have told them so. They just don’t care.

Nor did they care when the UN-appointed rapporteur on extreme poverty described the cut as an “unconscionable” move that breaches international human rights law, “incompatible with Britain’s obligation to protect its citizens’ rights to an adequate standard of living.”

When the Chancellor announced uplifts to Universal Credit in March 2020, it was an admission that welfare levels were not adequate to protect families from poverty after a decade of Tory cuts and freezes.

The cut to universal credit and working tax credits is the biggest overnight cut to the basic rate of social security since the foundation of the modern welfare state. Cutting them now, when all other Government support nets that were introduced to help us through the pandemic are also ending, and when some of the poorest workers in society will disproportionately bear the Government’s new tax levy, while inflation is rising, energy prices are surging, council tax is rising and food and other prices on the shelves are going up, is unsustainable.

“Read my lips”, the Prime Minister said in 2019, “we will not be raising taxes on income or VAT or national insurance.”

The Chancellor of the Exchequer went further saying: “Our plans are to cut taxes for the lowest paid through cutting national insurance.”

The betrayal on working families by this Government cannot be overestimated. The worst of it is – it won’t even fix the social care crisis. The health and social care levy will not deliver on social care for at least three years from now, and most of the levy will be spent on tackling the NHS backlog. It doesn’t remove the threat of having to sell your home to fund care.

The lowest paid workers, including careworkers and those on the frontline of the pandemic will bear the brunt of this tax rise. We should be supporting low paid workers, many of whom work in the frontline jobs we celebrated during the pandemic, not taxing them to the hilt.

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— OCTOBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

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film review comedy The Addams Family 2

Comedy is back with some guy from Sweden!

After 18 months away Castle Comedy is back in Biggleswade!

The Big Show is being held at the Weatherley Centre and will feature three headline quality acts!

Saturday October 9 – The Big October Show at The Weatherley Centre, Biggleswade.

ANGELA BARNES – After a career in health and social care, Angela decided to realise a long-held ambition and give comedy a go.

Within a couple of years, she had won the 2011 BBC New Comedy Award with her gloriously down-toearth and straight-talking humour.

Since then Angela and her witty world view have been catapulted onto numerous radio and television shows. She is hosting an episode of the new series of Live at the Apollo and is a regular panellist on Mock the Week. She has hosted The News Quiz on BBC radio 4 and was the first contestant on Richard Osman’s House of Games to win all five days!

“Angela Barnes is the best mainstream female comedian I’ve seen since Sarah Millican... I can’t be

‘The Addams Family 2’ is a direct sequel to 2019’s ‘The Addams Family’.

Adapted from Charles Addams’ comic with the same title, this sequel features the comedic antics of the Addams.

The story follows Morticia (Charlize Theron) and Gomez (Oscar Isaac), who are worrying about their growing children.

Both Wednesday (Chloe Grace Moretz) and Pugsley (Finn Wolfhard) have started to skip their dinners and immerse themselves in ‘scream time’.

In order to restore their family bonds, Morticia and Gomez decided to take the whole family, including Uncle Fester and the rest of the original crew, into their haunted camper. And so begin a hilarious adventure throughout America where they also meet many new kooky characters.

The sequel is directed by Greg Tiernan and Conrad Vernon, best known for ‘Sausage Party’, a 2016 animated comedy and

adventure. Written by Dan Hernandez, Benji Samit, Ben Queen, and Susanna Fogel, this movie comes with parental guidance suggested as it contains macabre and crude humour, violence, and language that may not be suitable for small children and pre-teenagers.

Nonetheless, there are still some lessons to be drawn from ‘The Addams Family’ for everyone. Their journey to recover their family bonds and the way they continue to evolve and grow will be an interesting watch.

The top-notch visual effects produced by Ian Allard, Giorgio Bertolone, Lionel Bruyere, and their team will hook the audience. Stunning music composed by Jeff Danna and Mychael Danna will also be the highlight of this sequel.

‘The Addams Family 2’ is scheduled to be released on October 1, 2021.

any clearer than that can I?” Bruce Dessau, Evening Standard “Brilliantly funny” Sarah Millican OLAF FALAFEL – is a Swedish comedy sensation and multiple award winner. In 2019 he won Dave’s Best Joke at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival! With a unique mixture of one-liners and Scandinavian-tinged stories he has earned the purely fictitious title of ‘Sweden’s eighth funniest comedian’.

“A mixture of audience interaction and jokes worthy of Milton Jones. His easy confidence and a sense of performance endeared him to the crowd”

recipe Hungarian Mince Goulash

Serves: 4 This is a simple but hearty Hungarian-inspired meal where minced beef is simmered with macaroni, tomatoes, paprika, chilli and garlic. Delicious served with fresh bread and salad or steamed vegetables.

INGREDIENTS - 1kg whole plum peeled tomatoes - 450g lean minced beef - 160g macaroni - 80g chopped onion - 1 clove garlic, finely chopped - 170g tomato puree - 1 tbsp chilli powder - 2 tsps paprika METHOD 1. In a large saucepan brown the beef, then drain off any fat.

2. Add tomatoes, onions, garlic, paprika, chilli powder, macaroni and tomato puree.

3. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, if mixture seems too dry.

4. Simmer until macaroni is tender then serve immediately.

Chortle JAMES REDMOND – You will recognise James from his numerous stints on some of the UK’s favourite soaps! He is best known for seminal roles in ‘Hollyoaks’ and ‘Casualty’ and more recently he has appeared in both ‘Emmerdale’ and ‘Coronation Street’. As a comic he is slick, sharp and a fabulous story teller.

“Fresh-off-the-telly James Redmond has the makings of a really good comic.” FRINGE MAGAZINE Plus Biggleswade favourite Paul Revill will host the show.

Doors Open at 7.00pm and the Shows Start at 8.00pm.

Tickets:www.castlecomedy.co.uk

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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2021 —

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music

out & about

The Levellers just one of the great acts at this event

Diary

Sharnbrook Mill Theatre – Duets

‘Music on Thursdays’ Concert Season. October 7, the internationally renowned choir Stile Antico returns for our first concert with a contemplative programme reflecting the journey from sunset to dawn.

November 11, a recital for French horn by a sensational new talent, Ben Goldscheider and his partner on the piano, Huw Watkins.

January 20, a concert of classical Indian ragas by a true master of the sitar: Mehboob Nadeem.

February 24, a recital of songs by Vaughan Williams, Rachmaninov, Brahms and Schubert by the Russian-British baritone Theodore Platt who joins us from his day job at the Bavarian State Opera.

March 24, a programme of trios by Haydn and Beethoven, together with a recent work they commissioned from local composer Cherlyl Frances-Hoad.

The Season concludes on April 28 with a brilliant young quintet, Connaught Brass, who took first prize in the inaugural Philip Jones International Brass Competition in 2019. Contact: www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk

Bedford Music Club:

Saturday night alongside DJ EZ delivering an unmissable potion of Drum’n’Bass and UK garage.

Finally the awesome Levellers will close the show on Sunday night. Other names performing throughout the weekend include , TS5, Nathan Date, Majestic, David Rodigan, Shy Fx, Kings of The Rollers, Peter Hook and the Light and The Deadline.

Guests may come dressed up in their best Halloween outfits, there will also be make up artists on site to help transform to that ultimate scary look. The bar of bizarre will

by Tony Hendrix Following on from Bedford Park concerts which was a roaring success which featured a host of music celebrities including Olly Murs and world famous DJ Pete Tong another stunning music event has come to haunt the Bedford!

The UKs biggest Halloween show is set to spook your rhythm buds in a huge big top at Great Meadows this is a three day event commencing Friday, October 29 until Sunday 31.

The Great Meadow Halloween festival is going to be an action packed spooktacular weekend , featuring some amazing artists waiting to get freaky with you!

World famous Craig David headlines at the Festival on Friday October 29, with his awesome world renowned TS5 experience .

Craig will be performing his classic club anthems alongside some of his latest material not to be missed.

World famous Drum’n’Bass DJ Andy C will be on the decks on

be an amazing focal point featuring a three storey construction of corrugated iron, broken windows and barbed wire, guests enter at their own risk !

Bedford-based promoters, Superclub Industries, are delighted to announce that the legendary Levellers will be performing live at The Great Meadow, Bedford on Sunday, October 31. The Levellers are still going strong after 30 years in the game, the festival coincides nicely with the anniversary of their

seminal platinum-selling album ‘Levelling The Land’. featuring many of the bands big hit singles like One Way, 15 Years, Far From Home ,The Game, Liberty Song, Sell Out, Another Man’s Cause, Riverflow and the incendiary Battle Of The Beanfield.

The band also released a studio album during lockdown back in summer 2020 called ‘Peace’ which crashed into the UK at number 8, this was the bands highest charting entry since 1997s Mouth to Mouth.

Special supporting guests on the night will be Peter Hook & The Light band, with Dreadzone. Peter Hook was the founder of both Joy Division and New Order, Peter keeps the legacy of both of these bands alive through ‘The Light’ band covering nostalgic hits from both bands where he played an integral part in cementing these bands into the British music scene This event at The Meadows is estimated to attract up to 15,000 for a night of heavenly entertainment in a spooky and eerie setting, certainly not a place for the faint hearted !

Organiser Mark Harrison has worked extremely hard in bringing these prestigious outdoor events to Bedford, he was the award winning organiser behind Bedford Parks Concerts, I am sure Mark will be seeing many more awards coming his way if he continues to bring these would famous acts to our little town, tickets are available from: halloweentownfestival.com

17

Yoga: Priory Methodist Church,

Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. 2pm Mondays Contact: June for details: juandhannigan@yahoo.co.uk 8/21

Car Boot Sale: Milton Ernest

Garden Centre, Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH, Cars £5, vans £10. Sellers setup 9am, Buyers 10am-2pm, Sunday 3rd October. No need to book a stall, bring your own table Contact: (01234) 823033 or enquiries@miltonernestgarden centre.co.uk

Bedford National Trust Association: Addison Centre,

Kempston, MK42 8PN. Tuesday October 19, Tuesday 2.30 Speaker, Rob Spray, on ‘Hidden Treasures of our Secret Seas’. November 16, Tuesday 2.30 Speaker Jason Middleton on ‘Pearl. A famous Gemstone’ Contact: Betty Thomas 01480 860421 Advertise your event here from as little as £7 per month, email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

“Sweet as a nut”

7.30pm October 21-23 A comedy about the human heart!

When it comes to love, nothing ever runs smoothly, so join four couples, who are trying to navigate life, love, marriage, divorce and romance in this heart-warming play.

Duets, is a charming and hilarious comedy, full of pathos and wit.

Susan Moore, director, said: “After the 18 months we’ve all had, it was so important to put on a funny show, and Duets was an obvious choice.

“It’s so exciting getting into the theatre again and becoming a little family of actors, who are a bit like little creatures that have been let out of a cage!

“It’s wonderful seeing the performers transform from little buds and turn into big, funny, flowers. It’s been a joy to work on.”

Tickets £12 from our website or from Pick-A-Lily Florists in Sharnbrook.

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October 6, at 9.30am at the Centenary Hall, Kempston, for sessions on Wednesday mornings and Friday mornings and afternoons (with the exception of Friday, October 15, when the Hall will not be available). We are a social Club with sequence dancing on Wednesdays and sequence dancing, whist and bingo on Fridays. New members are welcome and for further information contact: Sheila Cobban, on 01234 347306.

Bedford Floral Art Society: present a flower arrang-

ing demonstration by Mark Entwistle entitled “The Secret Life of Colour” at 7.30pm, Tuesday, October 5, Addison Centre, Kempston.

Visitors welcome £12. Contact: bedford floralartsociety.co.uk

Mon-Sat Noon-11pm Sunday Noon-10.30pm

Sandy Historical Society: Take a look into

Sandy’s past at the Sandy Historical Research Group exhibition Saturday, October 16, from 10am to 1pm, Sandy Town Council Chamber,Cambridge Road.

Members free; £4 entry to nonmembers. Refreshments available.

Anyone interested in joining our Group, purchasing SHRUB magazine, or contributing to SHRG activities is invited to email info@shrg.uk or contact: 01767 226392.ontact:

Milton Keynes National Trust Association: The next

meeting will be at the Oak Tree Centre, Wallinger Drive, Shenley Brook End, Milton Keynes MK5 7GZ on October 7, from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. The talk will be the postponed talk by David Squibb on Malta. £2 for members of the MKNTA and £4 for non-members.

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— OCTOBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

Keep up-to-date go to: www.rosettapublishing.com/bulletin

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by Maureen Catlin AST month we talked about growing bulbs indoors for winter so this month let’s look at planting them in the garden for colourful displays next spring.

Bulbs are the hidden surprises in the garden. We plant daffodils crocus and tulips now and forget them until spring but Autumn Crocus with large rosy pink flowers can be planted now to flower in the autumn.

Colchicums flower before the leaves so plant them in groups of five bulbs amongst ground cover plants like Vinca Minor or Lamium. These ground cover plants will hide the bulb foliage as it dies back while feeding the bulb for next season. Plant in partial shade and well drained fertile soil. Another type of autumn flowering crocus is Crocus Speciosum a tough and vigorous species in shades from white to purple which will quickly naturalise. It is tolerant to wind and rain so will grow in more exposed places.

The foliage is velvety and turns red at the end of the season. Crocus Kotschyanus and Crocus Pulchellus appear next with pale lilac petals and orange centres. In late autumn the Saffron Crocus, Sativus, with deep purple flowers and bright red long stigmas pop up. The stigmas can be cut off and dried to give the much prized spice saffron. The autumn flowering daffodil Sternbergia Lutea with its bright yellow trumpet is another autumn bulb delight when allowed to naturalise, as is Cyclamen Hederifolium planted in light shade under trees and left undisturbed.

Snowdrops are the first harbingers of spring with their snowy white flowers and green markings appearing from late January onwards. These can be disappointing if planted as dry bulbs in autumn, it is more successful to plant green growing plants in spring. If you plant Cyclamen Coum, Species Crocus and Aconites amongst the Snowdrops you will have lots of colour and interest at a time of year when the rest of the garden is still in the winter sleep.

Cyclamen Hederifolium’s tiny pink flowers in autumn are followed by gorgeous silvery marbled foliage. It is more vigorous than C. Coum and will quickly carpet a shady dry area under trees. These small bulbs like dappled shade and are suitable to plant under deciduous trees and shrubs where the soil is dry and well drained. When the leaves fall in autumn leave them as mulch over the bulbs. If left undisturbed all these plants will seed and naturalise quickly forming a spring carpet.

Dwarf Irises grow to 15cms and flower in

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February and March with their perfect fragrant blooms of white, yellow, china and deep blue and violet. It is important to grow them in drained soil in a sunny or part shaded place. Put fine grade gravel around the bulbs to protect the flowers from being damaged by rain splash.

These early varieties of small naturalising bulbs are followed in March and April by Anemone Blanda and the wood anemone A. Nemorosa. The little starry shaped flowers with pretty feathery leaves are lilac blue, pink and white and associate well with the fragrant Muscari, Grape Hyacinths. Sky blue Scilla Siberia, white Puschkinia Scilloides and china blue Ipheion which will all naturalise in a sunny border.

Dwarf Narcissus and Tulips are also in flower in March and April. They are particularly good to grow in tubs with Primroses, Violas and Panolas. Tete a Tete is the shortest Narcissus at 15cms followed by the multi headed fragrant Double Camperelle and Silver Chimes at 25cms. Jack Snipe, Intrigue and Pipit are also really worth growing.

Dwarf Tulips are very good planted in containers either mixed with other plants or alone. Varieties like

the old favourites like King Alfred, Carlton, Dutch Master and Camelot but there are also many other lovely variations. Sacajawea has an orange centre and yellow petals, Vanilla Peach has lemon petals and frilly apricot centre and Acropolis is white with an orange centre.

Tall Dutch or Garden Tulips are among my favourite plants. These stately bulbs love a sunny place and I like to see them planted in groups of the same variety. Red Impression is bright scarlet and sumptuous. Pretty Princess is bright rosy pink with red purple flames on the outer petals while Queen of the Night is one of the darkest described as satin black in colour. Brown Sugar is fragrant and apricot pink, Zurel is ivory and deep red and Sunlover changes as it matures from yellow to orange and then red.

Garlic and Japanese Onions are also bulbs and can be planted in October for early crops next year.

There are now several varieties of onion to choose from, all are hardy and reliable, it is your personal choice for flavour. We have the yellow onions Senshyu, Radar and Troy or Electric which is bright red for salads. Garlic varieties available now are Marco for that strong garlic flavour, Germidour a mild flavour and Elephant Garlic which is a sweet and mild ideal for roasting.

Fire of Love has perfect bright red tulip flowers and striking green foliage with creamy yellow edges and Gluck with lemon and red flowers and blue green leaves striped red. They will make a good display planted alone and are a very low cost way of planting spring containers.

Another cost effective spring planting for tubs is layer planting tall daffodils and narcissus. It is better to use only one variety for each tub. Place a layer of drainage at the bottom of a 40 cm wide and deep container then a layer of compost. Arrange seven bulbs evenly without touching and cover the bulbs with compost, add another layer of nine bulbs and cover with compost again and repeat with a final layer of nine bulbs and cover. The bulbs will all grow to the same height, flower at the same time and make an amazing display.

Garden Hyacinths make wonderful scented displays in tubs as well. Try Woodstock a gorgeous deep mulberry wine colour, Splendid Cornelia lilac, Royal Navy a deep rich blue or Sweet Invitation which is pale orange pink.

We must not forget “Our Host of Golden Daffodils” and Dutch Tulips. These are excellent to plant directly into the borders and leave undisturbed to flower for many years.

The bright yellow trumpet daffodils are among

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MID BEDS EDiTION

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN OCTOBER 2021 —

19

sport FOOTBALL – WADERS ROUNDUP BY MIKE DRAXLER

Waders out of FA Cup BIGGLESWADE TOWN ..........3 ST. IVES TOWN.........................2 AUGUST 30 THE Bank holiday fixture, the second game in three days for both sides. The Waders coming off the back of a draw at Hednesford, the Saints a heavy defeat at home to Stratford, made for a fascinating encounter.

The match started with the

Waders taking up the aggressive stance progressing forward via Joe Neal, Jamale McKenzie and Lewis Clayton. And Clayton it was who fired home from just inside the box on 4 minutes. A great start but the Saints had other ideas, using the breakaway tactic to the full. First by full back Eniola Agemoh Davies whose stunning run into the Wader box resulted in an equaliser after 14.

CRICKET NEWS

BEDFORDSHIRE SENIORS Bedfordshire seniors can look back on the 2021 season with a good deal of pride. Both over-60s teams won a number of league games and reached the semi-finals of the plate competition. The over-70s in their first league season proved to be very competitive despite having a small squad and also enjoyed a number of victories including three against Norfolk, traditionally a bogey side. A big thank you to all clubs who hosted home games despite difficulties posed by the pandemic. We can look forward with optimism to more successes.

TWO very disappointing defeats in the final two league games of the season meant that Blunham 1st XI missed out on Promotion from Whiting and Partners division 2 by just five points.

The 2nds did however secure promotion, the 3rds and Sunday XI ended up mid-table, the 4ths also just missed out. The club did however win the East-Beds shield with a great victory against Eaton Socon and also won the County Under-19 cup with an excellent victory against Flitwick. All in all a good season despite the one major disappointment.

Liam Cross was next to break the green defensive wall, with a cross field ball finding him free on 25 and had no problem with his shot across the keeper. To the other end on 32, Jemale McKenzie picking up a loose ball to put the Waders back on level terms.

Biggleswade came out for the second period with renewed enthusiasm as the game was kept in the opposition half for long periods.

Luck and you always need some came on the 60th minute as the ball bobbled around the St. Ives goal finally hitting the visiting keeper on the back of the head and eventually over the line. The Waders still came forward containing the Saints front line.

One outstanding run by Kane Ferrell fully 70 metres, resulted in the full back hitting his shot wide.

The tired legs were beginning to show as St. Ives looked for the equaliser. Two late penalty shouts were both waved away for the Saints and a relieved Wader team grateful to hear the final whistle with three points in the bag.

Sandy BISCL Division One Champions HAVING won the Second Division in 2020, Sandy CC 1st XI won the First Division this season at the first attempt. Captained by Paul Stevenson, the 1st XI side lost just 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Sandy CC Kempston Methodists CC Hexton CC Clifton CC, Beds Old Warden CC Kempston Hammers CC Road Runners CC

12 12 12 12 12 12 12

JUNIOR INDOOR TRAINING Sandy CC begins its winter Junior Indoor Cricket Sessions on Saturday 18th September, at Sandy Secondary School Sports Hall from 9-10am.

The sessions will then run every Saturday onwards, and all new players very welcome to come along and join in. No pre-booking is required, and sessions are open to all local juniors.

For more information, please visit www.sandycricketclub.co.uk, find us on Facebook, or email cricketclubsandy@gmail.com

BISCL Div 1 Clifton CC v Sandy CC Clifton CC 166-10 (B. Stone 55), Sandy CC 167-4 (K. Morrallee 39, S. Nugent 39, C. Birkett 33) Sandy CC won by 6 wickets

BISCL Div 1 T20 Sandy CC v Kempston Hammers CC Kempston Hammers CC 61-10 (S. Hussain 34, T. Germany 4-28), Sandy CC 62-3 Sandy CC won by 7 wickets

one league match during the season. Chris Birkett was the leading run-scorer for the 1st XI, and Sam Nugent the leading wicket-taker.

9 9 6 3 3 2 1

1 3 3 5 7 8 6

2 0 1 4 2 1 2

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 3

0 0 2 0 0 1 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

68 65 45 51 54 39 26

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

278 245 230 171 144 119 31

Sandy CC v Clifton CC Sandy CC 189-6 (P. Stevenson 76, M. Morrallee 41), Clifton CC 1495 (J. Stone 56) Sandy CC won by 40 runs BISCL Div 3 Sandy CC v Luton Caribbean CC Match ball sponsored by Cricket Club President Sandy CC 158-10 (S. Saunders 53, R. Cooper 44, C. Mudireddy 3-33, Y. Jhala 3-20), Luton Caribbean CC 162-1 (Y. Jhala 60, R. Bailey 53) Luton Caribbean CC won by 9 wickets Luton Caribbean CC v Sandy CC Sandy CC 132-10 (L. Eplett 42, L. Pettit 29, A. Durrcani 3-20), Luton Caribbean 134-5 (R. Bailey 46, A. Durrcani 45) Luton Caribbean CC won by 5 wickets BISCL Div 3 T20 Ampthill CC v Sandy CC Sandy CC 208-4 (K. Morrallee 73, L. Eplett 55), Ampthill 123-6 Sandy CC won by 85 runs

Man of the match: James Peters.

FA CUP 1st QUALIFYING ROUND BIGGLESWADE TOWN ..........0 HITCHIN TOWN.......................3 SEPTEMBER 4 The excitement and anticipation of the week running up to this local FA cup derby was immense but come the day, all went wrong for the Waders. Biggleswade usually kick left to right in the 1st half, with Hitchin winning the toss and choice of ends, the Waders were wrong footed from the start.

Six minutes in and a serious injury to Sam Squire, who was replaced by Ronan Silva. Move on 7 and an unfortunate handball was awarded a penalty kick, despatched to the back corner by Alex Brown.

At 0-1 Hitchin decided to play keep ball and very effectively they did it to, our forward line chasing but not achieving. Chances were few in the first period. A great left side move between Howe and Muyembe found the ball Infront of goal but neither McKenzie or Neal to get a toe to it. Hitchin contained and played out the first half content with the score line.

Out for the second half and bums were hardly on seats when, brother Luke Brown curled a peach of a shot from just inside the area to double the lead. Hitchin employed

Man of the match: Joe Neal.

the right tactics and never allowed the Waders to get going. Joe Neal burst every muscle in his attempts to put things right, but it was not a Wader day. On 78 Callum Stead gave Hitchin the icing on the cake and a place in the hat for the next round, to make the final score 0-3.

REDDITCH UNITED................1 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ..........0 SEPTEMBER 11 That I am lost for words written or verbal but the result of this match has left me speechless.

Not that the Waders should have won, but a loss was unjust and reflects badly on the officials.

Never easy going to Redditch, can’t recall ever coming away with a win. But Biggleswade had licked their wounds after the FA cup defeat, players returning after injury and covid gave the management more choice of a starting 11. It was Redditch who took up the batten creating two or three scoring chances in the first 10, fortunately none hitting the target.

Waders started to get a grip and worked chances of their own, it was going to one of those games where most of the action took part in the middle third of the pitch.

On 32 Redditch were awarded a penalty, unsighted as I was I cannot

give you the guilty parties or reason, but there did not seem to be many complaints and the kick was ably despatched by No. 9 Daniel Sweeney. Little else happened for the remaining minutes and Redditch went in with their noses in front.

Out for the second 45 and much of the same, Joe Neal chasing down every ball, David Manu and Junior Muyembe employing their trickery, all to no reward.

Midway through the half a blatant handball was waived away by the referee without consultation to his assistant. Biggleswade complained bitterly but no moving that decision.

That one decision affected the rest of the game and onto further fixtures. Shane Bush was pushed forward to try and work something.

His alleged reckless tackle led to a straight red and his forfeiture of the next three games.

More on page 20

20

— OCTOBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

MID BEDS EDITION

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

sport Waders take out Rovers in Cup clash

by Mike Draxler SOUTHERN LEAGUE CUP 1st ROUND

BARTON ROVERS ..................0 BIGGLESWADE TOWN .........3

SEPTEMBER 14 After all the rain during the day the evening turned into a very pleasant atmosphere, likewise the football.

The Waders have not been to Barton for sometime, as always, a very warm welcome from our near neighbours.

The game got underway with Biggleswade kicking down the slight incline. Four minutes in and Luca Cardine hit the bar after a dazzling run. Another four minutes and a well worked combo of Howe and Cardine who finally crossed the ball for Coree Wilson to power the ball into the net. Waders continued to press and chances came but went begging. At half time the score line flattered the home side at 0-1.

Out for the second period and all change at Barton took the slope and pressed for an equaliser. The

Waders defended well and the onetime Barton had the ball in the net, was ruled offside.

As the legs began to tire Biggleswade piled on the pressure with the impressive Ronan Silva conjuring all sorts of magic before finally shooting into the roof of the net on 75.

Joe Neal rounded off the evening with a third. Cardine still lightening quick, retrieved an impossible ball and somehow crossed for Joe Neal to run in and score on 82. A fair result on the night of a very enjoyable game.

MORE MATCH REPORTS ON PAGE 19 When Harry met Adam Man of the match: Luca Cardine.

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DOLPHIN’S swimmer Harry Rowson had an amazing time with Olympic Adam Peaty as well as other swimming Olympians at Adam Peaty’s “AP Race Clinic Tour 2021” The day was separated into three parts for the swimmers with a separate session just for parents.

The first session for the swimmers was land training with work in the gym led by Rob Norman, who is Adam Peaty’s gym coach. This focused on numerous bodyweight exercises and improving swimming specific pathways. Moving onto the second session after a short break, this was called ‘Racing Edge’ and was based around the mental side of racing and how elite swimmers get

the winning edge through focus and mental fortitude.

The third session, probably the most exciting one for Harry, was in the swimming pool. 45 minutes with Ed Baxter who is Adam’s swim partner, focusing on the push off and turns with, not surprisingly, Adam focusing on breaststroke.

Out of the pool, to finalise the day’s events, there was a great presentation made by Adam with a question and answer session.

Also within the day running simultaneously was a parent session which focused about the role of a parent and a really informative document was provided entitled ‘Parent Support Station, AP Race Clinics tour 2021’.

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