Sandy & biggleswade bulletin july 2017

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SANDY CARNIVAL

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JULY 2017

LOCAL NEWS magazine

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JULY 2017 BULLETIN — 3

Town Council extend contract due to excellent work

Your Biggleswade Community Agent, Gill reeves has been working hard on behalf of the residents of Biggleswade.

The Town Council have provided funds to Bedford rural Communities Charity to extended Gill’s part-time appointment until March 2018.

Gill has been working tirelessly to help those in need of support to access services, benefits and activities that will enhance their physical and mental well-being.

Primarily, although not exclusively, clients are older residents who may no longer have family or trusted neighbours nearby who will have traditionally provided such support.

Clients have reported feeling more supported and connected to the community and having a greater sense of independence.

Some have also secured additional benefits through Gill’s help. other things Gill can help you with are filling out forms; applying for a Blue Badge; draw up a budget for those who are struggling to make ends meet; refer clients to the Bobby Van Scheme regarding security issues; advise people of clubs and organisations that can help them feel less socially isolated and many other things.

Gill is having a positive impact on peoples

HERE TO HELP YOU

lives, reducing their anxiety and stress through helping solve their problems. Gill is DBS checked, the service is free and confidential.

Gill will also be starting a ‘drop-in’ at Biggleswade Library every Tuesday, from

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Just call Gill on 07534 484750 or email gillr@bedsrcc.org.uk.

4 — BULLETIN JULY 2017

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It’s not all jam and Jerusalem!

by Beverley Watts

Due to the high demand from the local women in Sandy, Sandy Women’s Institute was established in February this year.

The Women’s Institute has gained in popularity in recent years, partly due to the TV series ‘Home Fires’ but it’s not all jam and Jerusalem for our newly formed Sandy W.I. We encourage more modern talks and activities alongside the traditional ones.

At the moment we have 66 members, from various age groups and backgrounds. To make it possible for everyone to attend we run two meetings per month at the Conservative Club; first Wednesday at 7:30 pm and third Tuesday at 9:30 am.

At each meeting, our members get to chat over a cuppa, listen to a guest speaker or join in with the organised activities. They also have the opportunity to go on day trips, join our lunch club and help run our stall at local community events such as the Sandy Carnival and Sandy Show.

If you want to make new

friends, learn new skills or just come along to have some ‘me’ time away from the children – you are most welcome!

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Chamber celebrates 140th anniversary

BeDForDSHIre businesses celebrated the 140th anniversary of the county’s Chamber of Commerce at a summer gathering held at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. The event was to thank 140 of the longest serving member companies, including Luton-based Vauxhall Motors which has been a supporter of the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce since at least 1938.

Vauxhall has also gifted the Chamber the use of a Vauxhall Astra Turbo for one year. All 140 members will receive a Certificate of Appreciation.

Adam Marshall, the Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, wished a happy 140th to his colleagues and stressed the organisation’s role in giving a strong voice to the busi-

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ness community, in facilitating international trade and in bringing members together.

Professor David Field, ZSL’s Zoological Director, said Whipsnade was achieving great things for Bedfordshire and around the world. He said the zoo is a truly global organisation which is putting the county on the map. The zoo has been a member of the Chamber since 1990.

Jeremy Brockis, the Chairman of Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, and a Partner at Taylor Walton solicitors, said: “We need for businesses to be heard, especially at this time, with Brexit. We need your support and we need your engagement.”

To find out more about the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce visit www.chamberbusiness.com or call 01582 522448.

JULY 2017 BULLETIN — 5

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Members of Sandy Good Neighbours’ Friendship Club enjoyed a day out at Shuttleworth Collection in Old Warden on Monday June 5. The group toured of the aircraft and vehicle exhibition and took refreshments in the on-site restaurant. The Club is already planning a return trip to visit the Swiss Gardens in the near future.

SGN Friendship Club meets at 10am every Monday in the Stonecroft Community Room. New members are always welcome. For information please contact 07810 213935.

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SG19 Road Safety Group

WITH the recent announcement – 16th June 2017 - of the plans for some 18,000 new homes for Biggleswade and Tempsford, in addition to those planned in Potton, it is very clear that the SG19 road Safety Group needs to continue to press for the construction of a proper bypass for Sandy and Beeston. While it is reported that the plans depend on improvements to the A1 and to the local road network, historically such work tends to follow long after the new houses have been built and the traffic has escalated while existing residents have suffered from congestion together with noise and air pollution from the construction traffic.

The ongoing road Investment Strategy for the A1 will need to further extend its consideration of the position as a whole and must not get bogged down with the plans for the oxford to Cambridge expressway which, for our immediate area, is not relevant but in any event is partially built with the existing Bedford bypass running from the M1 to the A1.

The plans for the dualling of the A428 as published to date leave a lot to be desired, not least for the missed opportunity, while all the plant is on site, of building a further carriageway on the A1 to bypass the notorious accident black spot by Kelpie Marine at roxton. While the ideal would see the entire section bypassed from Alconbury to Baldock, it seems this is becoming less likely.

As always, public support is vital so please drop us a line from the website. It will be public opinion that sways the decision makers and our petition is designed to do just that, not only in relation to the A1 bypass but also in relation to local roads. If you have yet to do so, please sign our petition online via our website – www.SG19.org – to support our views.

8 — BULLETIN JULY 2017

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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Have you asked yourself: ‘Could you be a Foster Carer?’

‘Could you make that difference to a child’s life?’

There is always so much misunderstanding about the myths of foster care – it is such a key topic and most people make their own assumptions around who is and who isn’t appropriate or available to foster.

Every day at Children First we speak to people who say they do not think they will be eligible to foster because of a number of reasons. We hear the same reasons over and over again.

All too often they are wrong and in fact they ARE ELIGIBLE to foster and become some of the best foster carers we know!

Age limits, home ownership or not, health, employment, relationships are just a few of the myths that need busting!

Looking at these myths and discussing how most people are able to offer a looked after

child a stable home as long as they are willing is such a quick and easy thing to do, all you have to do is call us or visit our pages and message us.

Do you think you’re eligible to foster a child in need?

If not why not?

Discuss it with us and help us

to get those people who don’t believe they can foster to apply and find out more.

If you are interested in finding out more information about how you can make a difference to a child’s life, then contact us through our website www.cffa.co.uk or call 0808 178 1144.

For a more personal chat call Kim on 01268 567330

For more information please go to www.cffa.co.uk or call Kim on 01268 567330

SANDY TOWN COUNCIL S

ho ps s k r o W c i a s o M e following t o r y i n St o ne – ld in Sandy on th

he Workshops will be of s rie se a e project will see wn dates: :00 The Story in Ston installed in the to cs 9:30–12:30 13:00–16 ai os m ed 2017 ly em Ju th th 26 is ay Th sd e. historically ne ad sw Wed Potton and Biggle :00 ories st hi centres of Sandy, ns w to e 9:30–12:30 13:00–16 th e 17 at br 20 t le us ce ug ill A w 2 exciting project derful public Wednesday eating some won :00 cr , es iti un m m co 9:30–12:30 13:00–16 and joy.

17 20 en t to us rs ug to A si 9 vi ay d Wednesd art for residents an e th be ill 13:00–16:00 w e er th t ugus 2017 9:30–12:30 t us e ug th A of 16 g ay During July and A in sd ak Wedne t involved in the m a A series y. opportunity to ge nd Sa in d t involved and join for ye ge la to sp e di lik be ld ill ou w w If you mosaics which Town Council e chance to please contact the nding a workshop give volunteers th p ill ho w ks or ps w ho ks or w of e art by te anyone atte volvement with th details. Please no e th in d n Council. have hands on in ye la sp di ster with the Tow aics to be gi os re m t us te m ea cr to g helpin year. town later in the

Sandy Town Council ch COUNCIL M r Bran EETINGS becomes Tree Charte uncils has All meetin l Association of Local Co

gs commence at 7.30pm exce Developmen pt t Scrutiny Com mittee (Plann which starts ing) at 6.30pm in the Council C hamber, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE

Monday 3 July 2017 Human Reso urces Monday 17 Ju ly 2017 Developmen t S crutiny Community Services & En vironment Monday 31 Ju ly 2017 Policy, Finan ce & Resourc es Monday 14 Au gust Developmen t Scrutiny Town Counci l

See our websi

te for details

ALL MEMBERS

of other meeti ngs

OF THE PUBL IC AND PRES S ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND

re than 70 This year the Nationa land Trust, along with mo partnered with the Wood de, to launch the new Charter for wi e Tree other organisations UK on 6 November 2017. Th cked up by le op Pe d an ba Trees, Woods , UK and practice in the Charter will guide policy of public stories about why trees are ds an us the evidence of tho important. nch, meaning s become a Charter Bra Sandy Town Council ha ng network of people passionate wi we will be joining a gro velop and promote the new Tree de to ng lpi he es, tre t ou ab Charter.

Mayor ’s Charities for 2017-2018

The Mayor of Sandy, Cllr Colin Osb orn charities for the year 2017-2018. The e, has announced his y Guides, Sandy Cubs and Scouts, San are Sandy Brownies and dy Air Training Corps and Sandy Army Cadets.

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

10 — BULLETIN JULY 2017

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Having grown up in ealing, the elevated section of the A40 Westway into the centre of London is well known to me, as is its skyline; a skyline now dominated by the wreck of Grenfell Tower.

It is an all too visible reminder of the dreadful fire that killed so many, injured many more and displaced the remainder; a catastrophe that needs the best investigation so we understand how this tragedy occurred. We continue to keep all in our prayers. Justice must be done.

In the media coverage of this awful fire a number of issues have been raised, including significant concerns about building regulations, fire safety, the standards of the refurbishment, the disparity of wealth in the Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and much more besides. They all need investigation.

The response to the disaster similarly varied, from the chaotic to the sacrificial, not least by the emergency services and nearby community members, including those from local churches,

LIVING LIFE TO THE FULL

View from the Rt Revd

Richard Atkinson

The Bishop of Bedford

synagogues and mosques. one of the issues that has been highlighted is that of the disparity of life opportunities within this one London Borough. It was reported that the average wage is £125,000 and that is with the presence in the Borough of significant numbers at the bottom of the wage tree, including those in Grenfell Tower.

It contains some of the most expensive real estate on the planet, its rent levels are the most unaffordable in London, and yet it has one of the

JULY 2017 BULLETIN — 11

highest number of people in temporary accommodation.

However, of all the statistics, here and elsewhere, I have found most shocking the differences that exist in life expectancy. Across the Borough of Kensington and Chelsea men live, on average, fifteen years longer in the richest ward against those in the poorest ward; for women the gap is eleven years.

Closer to home both men and women in Harpenden live, on average, for fifteen extra years compared to those in the St Martin’s area of north Bedford. Being poor doesn’t just affect you daily life, it is likely to curtail your life.

Life opportunities vary for us all, but it is unacceptable in our wealthy country (Britain is 5th in the table of wealth amassed by individuals) that the disparity in life expectancy is so great. Amidst everything else prompted by the tragedy of Grenfell Tower, we must ask how do we become more of a nation where all can flourish, and live life to the full.

Millions of reasons to celebrate tenth birthday A TeAM providing financial support is celebrating securing £26.5million for people affected by cancer over the past decade.

Since the Bedfordshire Macmillan Welfare Benefits Advice Service was launched ten years ago, the team has helped almost 7,500 people.

It sees Macmillan Cancer Support and Central Bedfordshire Council working together to ensure people diagnosed with cancer, their

families and carers across Central Bedfordshire, Bedford Borough and, more recently, parts of Peterborough can access the financial support to which they are entitled.

Tina Sullivan, Senior Welfare rights Advisor in the team, says that in ten years the service has evolved since it was launched with mid-Beds Council and is now moving to a hospital-based service to identify people in need of help at an earlier stage after their diagnosis.

Say hello to George Hay’s Xero Advisors

GeorGe Hay Chartered Accountants are pleased to announce that emily Ward in Biggleswade, Daniel Wisby in Letchworth and Tara McCarter in Huntingdon have all recently received their Xero Advisor certification, consolidating the firms existing expertise and proficiency in the software program even further.

Xero is one of multiple accounting and bookkeeping software packages available to businesses, individuals and professionals. The software takes care of invoicing, recording of expenses and reconciliations, plus a whole lot more and by keeping everything in one place online, it allows you to track your money easily and efficiently.

George Hay’s advisors will provide you with as much, or as little, input as you require, from initial-set up and training to incorporating the software into your usual accounts routine.

Not only have they strengthened their offering to Xero users by ensuring that they have certified advisors amongst the team, but they also support a range of other online accounting and bookkeeping software packages including Sage and Kashflow.

To find out more about George Hay, which also has offices in

Huntingdon and Letchworth, please visit www.georgehay.co.uk Emily Ward

Tara McCarter

Daniel Wisbey

She said: “We advise on benefit entitlements, help people with claims, grant applications and any other challenges they may face. We don’t count the financial gain until the case is closed. We are averaging more than £2million per year.” research by Macmillan Cancer Support show that 83 per cent of people with cancer are on average £570 a month worse off because of their diagnosis. That is why access to welfare benefits advice at the right time is vital.

As well as Tina, the team is made up of three advisors and two support workers, expanding in 2015 when Macmillan asked the team to cover Peterborough.

Most referrals come from health and social care professionals and Tina says that they are looking to increase the number of clients they see.

She said: “To put things in perspective, in Bedfordshire in 2014 there were 2,296 cancer diagnoses and we currently see between 700 and 800 people per year.

“We go to local advice forums, Citizens Advice, sessions run by

Carers in Beds, cancer support groups, offer advice at places like [independent living scheme] Priory View – anywhere we can potentially help.

“Macmillan are keen to reduce the financial impact of cancer. It’s things like parking charges when you have to visit hospital regularly - or the extra expenses if you are going for radiotherapy or specialist treatment at hospitals like Mount Vernon and Addenbrooke’s.”

Tina added: “our clients will often be in work when they are diagnosed and suddenly find themselves on sick pay, or half pay, and facing extra expenses. So, the help that we offer them is invaluable.”

The service has recently achieved the Advice Quality Standard (AQS), the quality mark for organisations that provide advice to the public.

For more information about the service, visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/macmillan The team can be contacted on 0300 300 8145 or by emailing macmillan@centralbedfordshire. gov.uk

12 — BULLETIN JULY 2017

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In your garden – JULY 2017

AT THe time of writing, Springwatch is drawing to a close despite the fact that everyone else in the country has been referring to us already being in Summer for at least a month. And given the current temperatures, it is difficult to disagree with this opinion. And that means, for many gardens, the daily ritual of watering and dead heading has well and truly begun.

When watering, don’t forget, plants take their moisture through their roots so, a quick splash on the leaves is definitely not what the doctor ordered.

Instead, aim for the roots and give a thorough soak. Some plants, like peo-

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ple, are thirstier than others but your plant will show you whether your watering regime is sufficient or not.

Indeed, learning to ‘read’ your plants is an acquired skill that is very worth developing. By regularly examining your plants in the closest detail they will soon reveal their health and you can then adjust its care regime. A further benefit of doing this is the other flora and fauna you can see by carefully looking under leaves, and hiding in flowers. The very beautiful insects that we have in this country really are not treated with due respect by referring to them as creepy crawlies!

As always at this time, I’ve had a number of questions about how and why deadheading is beneficial; at its simplest, all plants are ‘hard wired’ to produce seed. However, for that to happen, pollination is required. And so the plant produces an attractive looking and smelling flower to entice a pollinator. The pollinator gets some yummy nectar as a reward but once that is done, the plant has produced its heirs and can go the way, every other living thing goes!

However, if one removes the actual flower the plant’s response is to create another as the seed production has been thwarted. So, by deadheading, the gardener is duping or my preferred term, ‘hood winking’, the plant into creating more blooms. So, deadhead before the plant produces seed. For many plants, once that stage has begun, it is the point of no return. If you are not sure whether your plant responds to deadheading or not, just try. You’ll be surprised at how many do.

With roses, where you get a cluster of flowers, simply snip out the ‘spent’ bloom. But where the whole cluster has

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

‘gone over’ make a cut further down the plant and remove the complete truss preferably leaving an outward facing bud, so that new growth will emerge. I actually use deadheading as an opportunity to keep the plant at a preferred height for if you don’t cut well down a particular truss, your beautiful rose flowers get higher and higher.

The answer to last month’s just for fun question ‘what is best thing to do to with stinging nettles in a garden?’ prompted a wonderful email from reader Liz Wybrew who explained that in the 1970’s, her mother made a quiche using them as a surprise ingredient instead of spinach! Liz revealed that although the quiche was absolutely delicious she hasn’t felt the need to replicate it ever since! I too have often made nettle soup (please email or write sending an SAe for the recipe) but simply leaving nettles in your garden is a good thing to do for all sorts of insects very much appreciate them. If however, you want to remove them, wearing

good quality leather gloves simply pull them out by the root. Then, chop into smaller pieces, place in a large bucket or similar container, and then place in a part of your garden where you don’t go very often. Then fill with water (preferably rain water). Why hide them like this? Because as the nettles break down a very strong and very unpleasant smell is created but leave for a month or so and you can use the mixture as a concentrate to be diluted by a 1:5 ratio and used as a nitrogen rich feed for all your leafy plants.

This month’s just for fun question is: many plants have the word ‘Japonica’ in them; what does this mean?

As usual, please email or ‘phone me with any gardening queries you may have on LawnDocGardens@ aol.com or 01767 627 581 or if you would like to write, please contact me via: Lawn Doctor Gardening Services, 6 Sand Lane, Northill, Bedfordshire, SG18 9AD.

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JULY 2017 BULLETIN — 13

14 — BULLETIN JULY 2017

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AROUND THE CLUBS Ann Taylor, Chairman, welcomed the members of the Ivel Valley u3A to their June meeting. The visit to the British School, Hitchin had been thoroughly enjoyed last month. It had been very educational and made the members glad that they didn’t go to school in those days. She thanked Chris Davies for arranging the outing. Both leaders were unavailable for the June walk and so it was cancelled for the month.

There was a request from the east of england region for volunteers to assist with starting new u3As. The art group will resume meeting at Sylvia Ditch’s house in September. Book Group 1 will meet on 3rd July at Jean Williams’ house. They are looking for two new members. Book Group 2 is meeting on Friday 14th July at The Coach, Potton to celebrate their anniversary. The Craft group met at Anne Jones’s house when they made decoupage cards. The Music Group meet on Tuesday at Nettie Van de Weerd’s house. The Sunday Lunch Club will meet on 25th June at The Wilbury, Letchworth.

Chris Davies gave details of the outings that she is organising this year. The trip to Kew Gardens is now full although there is a waiting list. There are spaces for the visit to the National Arboretum, Stafford on 5th october at a cost of £15.00, and the outing to visit Worcester Christmas Market on 1st December at a cost of £17.00.

The chairman introduced the speaker, Vic Botterill, who was to speak about ‘Body Language’. explaining that he had been a policeman for 30 years, Vic had studied body language. There followed a fascinating insight into different mannerisms that we all take for granted. The members could not believe how many different secrets there were in shaking hands and the various zones there were in spaces around us.

It was very funny and extremely interesting. Chris Davies gave the vote of thanks for a wonderful talk.

Closing the meeting the Chairman reminded them that the next meeting will be on Tuesday 27th June when Brian will lead the members in ‘Patience for Six’. He asked members to bring packs of cards. Visitors are always welcome.

IVEL VALLEY U3A JUNE 2017

BIGGLESWADE IVEL EVENING TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD

Chairman Chris Davies welcomed members to the Biggleswade Ivel evening Townswomen’s Guild meeting on Monday, June 12. Birthday greeting were given to Maureen Carter, Diane Keen, Vera Wall and Wendy Walters.

Tea helper for the month was Gwyneth Lawton Last month saw the guild participate in a walk around Cockayne Hatley followed by lunch at Beds Growers. A visit to the British School in Hitchin was thoroughly enjoyed, members took part in a ‘lesson’ in the school room which brought back nostalgic memories of arithmetic involving pounds, shillings and pence. unfortunately one member was made to stand with the dunces cap and another member received the cane for bad behaviour! A car boot sale has been

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arranged for Saturday, June 24 and an appeal was made for saleable items for this fund raising event. Angela Williamson said she was happy to continue collecting scarves that could be turned into turbans for people undergoing chemotherapy.

Several blanket squares and baby clothes have been knitted for the fistula appeal. The school gate will be locked at 10pm, anyone leaving the premises after that will need to use the back exit.

Forthcoming guild events are as follows: The monthly walk will take place on Thursday, June 22 meeting 10.45am at the Danish Camp; Sandy guild summer evening Wednesday, July 12; federation quiz evening August 18; outings have been arranged to Kew Gardens Friday, July 21; National Arboretum, Staffordshire Thursday, october 5; Worcester Victorian market Friday, December 1 and the national carol service at Coventry cathedral December 12.

The speaker for the evening, rob Gaskell gave a very interesting talk about Kazakhstan where he lived for a while.

It is 1-½ times the size of europe and a very wealthy country due to the oil industry. The main languages are Kazakh, German and russian and temperatures vary between +/-40° making it uncomfortable to live in. He was thanked by Angela Williamson.

The competition for something beginning with “W” was won by Maureen Harding with a will, Gill Hibbert a hand warmer and Chris Howard a whistle. raffle winners were Ann Jones, Val Dent and Yvonne Crane.

The chairman closed the meeting reminding members that the next meeting would be on Monday, July 10 when the speaker will be Peter Harkness with a talk entitled “grandfather’s diaries”. The competition will be for an item beginning with Y. The guild meets on the second Monday of the month 7.30pm at the Weatherley Centre new members and visitors are very welcome to join us.

BIGGLESWADE SANDY LIONS CLUB – MAY!

Although a month or so late in reporting, we had a busy May. We were really pleased to take our stall and games along to support and join in the May Day celebrations at Ickwell. It is a great community event for all the family and fun despite the rather varied weather this year. We had winners for the skittles game, the golf game and of course for the famous mug tombola! We seemed to have many satisfied customers and we certainly greatly enjoyed ourselves!

Later in the month, we took a party of 18 Carers to support the Shannon express dress rehearsal concert at Stratton School. Followed by a sumptuous Afternoon Tea at Moggerhanger House! oh – the cream scones!! As part of our service to the local community we try to support others, like the carers who appreciated joining us and having a very short break from their responsibilities. We also try to support other local community organisations like Shannon express, A cappella or Barber’s Shop group, who delighted our party with their excellent singing.

We help Stotfold Mill by collecting crockery for their fundraising crockery smashing stall!! So, later in the month, we were invited to spend a wonderful afternoon there to meet the team of hardworking enthusiastic volunteers and see for ourselves just what they have achieved over the years. The Mill team not only restored the Mill to the outstanding Mill that it is today, but keep it fully operational and producing a really good quality flour. Another local community venture that’s well worth a visit and support.

Interested in joining Lions, and keen to make a difference for others in the community, then, please do call for more information about Lions call 01462 814693 or biggleswadesandylions.org.uk

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parent company est. 1998

the Manchester bombing the weekend prior to the meeting.

The Chairman welcomed Ann back from her two month holiday.

There were 11 members present at the meeting.

2. Minutes of the previous Branch Meeting in April 17, were read aloud.

3. Matters Arising regarding CSgt Griffiths assisting with the remembrance Parade, Ted said that the time for the planning meeting for the remembrance Parade has been set as Tuesday 6th June at the Sea Cadet unit at 1800.

4.

5.

6.

7.

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com This is just an initial meeting and all those who are required to attend have been informed.

Correspondence on the 17th June it is the 35th Anniversary of the Falklands War and a ceremony will take place at 1500 at St Peter De-Montfort Church, Bedford. on the 18th June, there is a ceremony of laying up the standard at St Mary’s Church, Haynes and standard bearers are invited to attend. on the 19th June, there is a flag raising ceremony at Chicksands. They have requested standard bearers to attend from the entire Bedfordshire area. on the 25th June, it is Armed Forces Day and there is a big celebration happening in Bedford and everyone is invited to join in.

Tickets to attend the Cenotaph parade in London on 12th November are available, but they must be applied for by the 30th June or they will not be available. All those interested should get in touch with Angela to apply for tickets.

Chairman’s report The Chairman said that the Sea Cadets are trying to purchase a new boat for the unit, and he would like to donate £200 towards the fund from the General Funds because it’s all for youth and the youth has to be encouraged. The same question will be put to the royal Artillery Association; the Committee were asked if they would be happy with this or would there be suggestions for other amounts. The Treasurer said that it is a sailing dingy that costs £4,000 that the Sea Cadet Corps has said if the unit raises £2,000, they will match fund it. Ted suggests that the Branch does support the Sea Cadets fundraising appeal, but to only offer £50, but wants to confirm that it comes out of the General fund. Ann has suggested that it should be at least £100. It was agreed that the Biggleswade Branch donates £100 from the general funds to the Sea Cadet dingy fund.

Any other Business Ted will not be able to complete the Poppy Appeal administration as he is going away before the Appeal period finishes, although he is prepared to start it off and run the roster up until the end of the first week. He does the option of setting up a collection at Marks & Spencer’s on Saturday 4th November but it requires a volunteer to control it. If there is a confirmed volunteer for that day he will set it up, confirm it and brief the person to do it. 2 people selling poppies is all that is required. Tony said that he will do that, and ruth offered to do the admin for the second week if there is no one else to do it.

Date of next Branch Meeting The date of the next Branch Meeting will be 28th June 2017, to be held in St Andrews Church rooms, at 7.30pm.

ROYAL ARTILLERY ASSOCIATION

The Biggleswade Branch of the royal Artillery Association held a Branch Meeting on 7th June 2017, at the Sea Cadets Hall. There were twelve members present. The Chairman recited The royal Artillery Prayer.

Apologies were received from five members.

The minutes of the May Branch meeting were read.

The Treasurers report was received.

An application form for a new Standard Bearers Badge was received. A new rAA merchandise poster was discussed.

An invitation to attend Armed Forces Day in Bedford was received.

The President is to represent the Branch at Founders Day at the royal Hospital Chelsea.

Tickets for the The royal Artillery Grand Draw are still available.

The meeting closed at 14.55 hrs.

The royal Artillery Association exists to look after the welfare of and foster comradeship between members of the royal Artillery both serving and retired. ex-Service personnel of other Arms or regiments who wish to share the camaraderie are welcome. The Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sea Cadets Hall, Biggleswade starting at 14.30hrs. (There being no meeting in July, the next Meeting is on Wednesday 2nd August).

Please contact the Chairman Ted McKenzie on 07900806235 or e Mail tiger.ted@gmail.com for more details.

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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JULY 2017 BULLETIN — 15

Sandy Carnival fun Photos by Ken Lynch

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16 — BULLETIN JULY 2017

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Hundreds cheer volunteers’ achievements

HuNDreDS of people turned out to celebrate the inspiring achievements of Central Bedfordshire’s volunteers.

The third Cheering Volunteering awards and celebration evening took place at the Grove Theatre, in Dunstable in June.

The annual event began in 2015 to thank the many volunteers and voluntary organisations across Central Bedfordshire for the often unheralded work they do to help others in their community.

And they have grown since then,

with the judging panel this year particularly impressed by the quality of the entries.

It was organised by Central Bedfordshire Council, working in partnership with the Volunteer Centres as part of Central Bedfordshire Together, and sponsored by Biffa, Aragon Housing, the Fire Service, ProLogis and Jeakins Weir.

Before the ceremony began, people attending the event enjoyed a showcase of volunteering opportunities from organisations across

Central Bedfordshire.

And then it was on to the event itself, with the hundreds in attendance watching seven awards being presented as well as a host of great entertainment.

The winners and highly commended in each category were: Young Volunteer of the Year: Winner – Sasha Mead (Aldwyck Housing); Highly commended – Daisy Witts and emily Williams Volunteer of the Year: Winner – Tricia Humber (Money Matters credit union); Highly commended –

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Annmarie Boyle and Nick Berg Volunteer Group of the Year: Winner – BLeVeC emergency volunteers; Highly commended – Hospice at Home (Dunstable and Houghton regis), Houghton regis Art Town and Houghton regis Youth Action Team outstanding Contribution Award: Winner – Michael Hyde (Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire); Highly commended – David Wootton and Scott Kimberley Lifetime Achievement Award: Winner – Dave edwards (Leighton Linslade rotary Club); Highly commended – Nicola James and Michael Grant Fundraiser of the Year Award: Winner – Sue Sheppard (long-term fundraiser for rethink Mental Illness); Highly commended – Luke Newman John Buxton Panel’s Choice Award: Winner – Flitton & Greenfield Good Neighbours; Highly commended – Adam Bell, Clive and Angela Bucknall and Katie and Brian Juffs entertainment came from Natasha rowe, part of Central Bedfordshire Children in Care Council, former award winner ukie Toones, Kimberly Shaw and Lana Tookey, with the event being compered for a third time by the everpopular Billy Lee. New for this year was the ‘Inspiring Volunteering’ small grants scheme, with a total funding pot of £5,000 to help local voluntary and community sector community projects start new projects involving volunteers.

It saw 14 voluntary and community organisations received grant awards ranging from £100-£1,000 for projects to help encourage volunteering and support residents of Central Bedfordshire.

Central Bedfordshire Council’s new Chairman Councillor Fiona Chapman held her civic reception at the theatre, accompanied by new Vice Chairman Cllr Brian Saunders, before attending the evening in her ceremonial role.

She said: “What an amazing and inspirational event. I would like to congratulate not only the award winners and those who were highly commended in each category, but all of the other nominees and everyone who had a part to play in the evening.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our society so it was very fitting to celebrate their achievements during national Volunteers’ Week.”

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JULY 2017 BULLETIN — 17

Finalists of Business Awards named

CoMPeTITIoN judges have named their list of finalists in this year ’s SMe Bedfordshire Business Awards.

Finalists in 19 awards categories, ranging from Best Customer Service to the Green Award, will find out who goes home with shiny glass trophies at the gala final at Bedford Corn exchange on Wednesday, July 12.

Ian Cording, the chairman of headline sponsors the FSB (Federation of Small Businesses), said: “The judging process was incredibly tough. Not only did we have a vast array of entries to examine in detail but the quality of entries was stunning, just what we were asking for.

“Those businesses that did not make it through to the final can still be incredibly proud of their efforts. However, those businesses that did receive their finalists envelopes show the breadth and depth of companies in the county.”

The categories in this year’s awards also include ones for best businesses in Bedford, Luton, Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard.

The full list of finalists: Best Customer Service: Arcadia Sweet Shop; Bedfordshire Inflatables, Brides & Bustles; Cawleys; Cowley Holmes Accountants; Jam Crackers; Martin Hunt Hair Design and Will Brown Hair.

Apprentice of the Year: Abigail Swanson – equine Tranquility Ltd; Ben Goddard – Acuigen Ltd; Chloe Field – Kels Belles Beauty; Jacob Pulley – Hybrid Air Vehicles Ltd (Bedford); Joseph Fairey – Hybrid Air Vehicles Ltd (Bedford); Louise Baxter – Mount Pleasant Golf Club; Matthew Baines – Scotswood Industries Ltd T/A rCM Products.

Bedford Business of the Year: Amanda Murrell Associates; Box end Park; Cartridge Depot; evolve recruitment Bedford Ltd; George James Bridal; Gill Insurance; Wadys electrical Ltd. Best New Business: Fashion Show LIVe Academy CIC; Flamme rouge Cycles; Make a Cup of Tea Ltd; ready Steady roll; SrS Sales & Service Ltd; Stephanie o’Callaghan Photography; Will Brown Hair; Wooden Hill Coffee Company Ltd Business Innovation: Acuigen

Ltd (Bedford); Hybrid Air Vehicles (Bedford); Lenwell Ltd; Study Active; Traffic enforcement Systems Limited.

Business of the Year- Less than 50: evolve recruitment Bedford Ltd; Gill Insurance; JamCrackers; Pecks Farm Shop; Professional Pest Management; Scotswood Industries Ltd T/A rCM Products; Smarta Healthcare; Wadys electrical Ltd. Business of the Year- More than 50: Box end Park; Castle Hill Garage (Bedford) Ltd; Colpac Limited.

Community Business of the Year: D&M removals LTD; Deo Volente Legal LLP; HASCAT Safety Ltd; Home Instead Senior Care Luton and Central Bedfordshire; My Healthy Lifestyle CIC; SA Biz uK Ltd; Teaching Talons (The Animal Ambassadors) Ltd; The Marbrook Centre.

Dunstable Business of the Year: Your Marketing Needs Ltd enterprising Business: Dalchini spice; La Belle Cake Company; Ministry of Motion Limited; Pecks Farm Shop; Smarta Healthcare; Storm Video Productions Ltd. entrepreneur of the Year: Amanda Murrell Associates Ltd; Ministry of Motion Limited; Storm

Video Productions Ltd. Green Award: Arabel Lebrusan; Cartridge Depot; Teaching Talons (The Animal Ambassadors) Ltd. Leighton Buzzard Business of the Year: JamCrackers; Kings road; La Belle Cake Company; Millstream estate Services Ltd; Sunshine Softplay; ultimate Jaguar.

Luton Business of the Year: Bartham Press Watford Ltd; DCS Voice & Vision Ltd. Networking Group of the Year: Business Buzz Not for Profit Business of the Year: Community Interest Luton CIC; Luton Community Housing Ltd; Proud Horizons; team BeDS&LuToN; The Counselling Foundation; ToKKo Youth Space Service excellence: Arabel Lebrusan; George James Bridal; Go Houghton Bar & restaurant; Mount Pleasant Golf Club; Storm Video Productions Ltd; The Bridal Boutique.

Training and Development: DCS Voice & Vision Ltd; Study Active.

Young Business Person of the Year: Cat Lane – Cat Lane Photographer; Darrell Cannon – ready Steady roll; Poppy LeMar – Poppy’s Dancing Guys and Dolls Dance School.

18 — BULLETIN JULY 2017

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Biggleswade History Society Make your mark on local history!

eArLY this year volunteers from our society formed a workshop under the supervision of local artist, Carolyn Blake, and has recently finished its second assignment for the Story in Stone project - a colourful section of mosaic depicting the Great Fire of Biggleswade to be incorporated into a larger panel designed and made by oliver Budd for installation in public view at the Wetherspoon Crown inn where the fire began in 1785. We wait to hear when the installation can take place, so watch this space!

Meanwhile our volunteers have been cracking on with their next task and have almost completed a section showing Lady Penelope’s pink rolls royce of Thunderbirds fame, the popular 1960s TV puppet series. A model was used for the series but the writers and directors, Sylvia and Gerry Anderson, wanted a full-size working replica of the car (number plate FAB 1) to publicise the followup film, Thunderbirds Are Go’, released in 1966, so, at great expense, they commissioned John Mitchell of the Victoria Works in Hitchin Street, Biggleswade, to build it. Mitchell specialised in restoring and replicating classic vehicles and producing ‘one-offs’ as props for the film and advertising industries. Among his creations were a Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car and a small fleet of motorised Cadbury’s Creme eggs. The finished ‘rolls’ looked ‘the business’ but unfortunately broke down near the start of its run to take the Andersons to the film’s premiere and they had to finish the journey by taxi. The car was auctioned and disappeared for several years until it was found in a sorry state in a barn by Peter Nelson, a collector

1. Indoor meetings at Trinity Methodist Church have ceased for the summer and are replaced by evening walks and visits to places of local interest during June, July and August. Numbers for these outings are limited and they are therefore restricted to members only. our July visit – a walk in Tempsford village with local historian Steve Cooney – takes place on Monday, 3 July and is fully booked.

2. Monthly evening indoor meetings with guest speakers will resume on 4 September. See our programme on this page for details. entrance to indoor meetings is free to members. Nonmember visitors are also welcome to attend any talk for a donation of £3.00 payable at the door, or may wish to take advantage of our £4.00 short membership offer which runs from 1 october to 31 March 2018. We shall publish details of this offer at the appropriate time later in the year.

3. 29 members came on our visit to Dunton on the evening of 5

NEWS

ing, you do not need to be a member of a history society but simply a member of the local community, there is no upper age limit and no previous experience is necessary. Volunteers will learn mosaic techniques and gain an insight into this ancient craft. You will be made very welcome and will be surprised at how easily the skill can be learned. The sections made in the workshops will be incorporated into larger works designed and produced by professional artist, oliver Budd, for the Story in Stone mosaic trail in the three towns. The photo on this page shows an example of his work for Sandy – the Swiss Cottage built in 1851 for Captain William Peel. register in advance for the workshops you wish to attend. Here is the information you need: BIGGLESWADE. Workshops in the Library, Chestnut Avenue, Monday afternoons only, 1.00 – 4.00. Dates: 24 July, 31 July. 7 Aug, 14 Aug. register at the Library in person or by phone: who owned the Cars of the Stars motor museum in Keswick, Cumbria. When the museum closed in 0300 300 6835.

POTTON. Workshops in the Community 2011 FAB 1 went to a museum in Miami.

There is now an opportunity for Bulletin Centre, Brook end, Tuesday mornings 9.30 – readers to help make the next series of mosaics 12.30, and afternoons 1.00 – 4.00. Tea & coffee are in specially organized summer community available but bring some lunch if staying all day. workshops in Biggleswade, Potton and Sandy. Dates: 1 Aug , 8 Aug (pm only), 15 Aug. Sign up and make your mark on local history!

To register: contact the Potton Town Council Could you spare a morning, an afternoon, or a office 01767 260086. whole day per week in July & August to join one of SANDY. Workshops in Sandy Town Council Carolyn’s mosaic workshops in the three towns? Chambers, 10 Cambridge road, Wednesday mornor you may know of students looking for an inter- ings 9.30 – 12.30, and afternoons 1.00 – 4.00. Tea esting and constructive way to spend part of the & coffee are available but bring some lunch if staysummer holiday, perhaps before starting sixth ing all day. Dates: 26 July, 2 Aug, 9 Aug, 16 Aug. form, college or university. It costs absolutely nothTo register: contactl office 01767 491681

June. rain clouds threatened all day but waited until we set out for Dunton before delivering the goods. However, the evening started in the dry in the March Hare, where tea and coffee were served before we set off in the rain accompanied by our guide and host, Janice Pritchett. Janice has carried out research and drawn on her local connections to gather information and stories about the past of this small rural village and its people, once a self-contained community of mostly farm workers but now quite changed in appearance and character. She described in some detail a disappeared way of life. We were also put in the picture about ‘Dunton Docks’, which some of us had heard of but had puzzled over for years: King’s Pond on the edge of the village was filled in long ago and there are houses now on the site but in Victorian times pairs of steam engines that used to winch ploughs across the fields took on water here – at ‘the docks’! Now we know! The rain had stopped by the time the walk ended and Paul Artiss thanked Janice before we

headed back to the March Hare to make the second series of mosaics. round off the evening with a drink read all about it in the article on this page. in good company.

ABOUT THE STORY IN STONE

our society is pleased to have been associated with this project from the start. residents of Biggleswade, Sandy and Potton will see for themselves the first fruits of the project in the form of local history inspired mosaic panels appearing on walls in the three towns very soon. More are due to appear in the autumn this year and early next year. The project is part of a £4 million Market Towns regeneration Scheme made available by the Central Beds Council.

The mosaics are designed and produced by leading mosaic artist oliver Budd and some sections have been, and are being produced by school children and local people in workshops in the three towns under the supervision of local artist, Carolyn Blake, who masterminded the project. Now Bulletin readers can join special community workshops being held this summer in the three towns to help to

03 Jul: Members only walk in Tempsford Church end with historian Steve Cooney.

07 Aug: Members only visit to Waresley St James the Great church and mausoleum, and village walk.

04 Sep: ‘Life on the Home front during WW1’ – a talk by Anne Wise.

02 oct: ‘Wind & Water Mills and the Miller’s Life’ – a talk by robin Webb.

06 Nov: ‘The Good, Indifferent & outrageous’ – a talk by David Short about rural schoolmasters. early Dec: Members’ Christmas Party.

2017 PROGRAMME

For more information visit: www.biggleswadehistory.org.uk readers can also contact Jane Dale, the Society’s editor, on 01767 650340 or email editor@biggleswadehistory.org.uk

CONTACT US

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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JULY 2017 BULLETIN — 19

sport

Ladies qualify for the National Championships

BIGGLeSWADe ladies are having a good run in the County Competitions and the first team to qualify for the National Championships are the quartet of elaine Whiteman, Steph Harris, Jean Cooper and Cheryl Hills, who lifted the

Trisha Miller, Brenda Hollands, Jenny Ralph – National Triples Qualifiers.

Bob ralph Trophy in the Bedfordshire County Senior Fours. Having beaten Linslade 21:7 in the quarter finals, they went on to beat Shefford 25:18 in the semi finals and Barton Le Clay 26:17 in the finals.

The second team to qualify are the trio of Brenda Hollands, Trisha Miller and Jenny ralph in the Triples, who battled through five games on their way to success winning 20:14 (Sandy Con), 21:18 (Biggleswade), 20:14 (Henlow), 22:15 (e.Socon) and 13:10 (Dunstable).

All the girls will now represent Bedfordshire County in the National Finals at royal Leamington Spa in August 2017.

Two Pairs Teams are still on the road to success. elaine Whiteman and Cheryl Hills and Dawn Grisley and Jayne Christie, they will come up against teams from Kempston and Barton on Monday 26 June in the quarter finals, having already won four rounds.

The Club are also still in the Ladies National Top Ten Competition having beaten

County President Marjorie Lenny, Elaine Whiteman, Cheryl Hills, Step Harris & Jean Cooper – Senior Fours Winners.

teams from Wilstead, three disciplines to one (78:64 shots) and Stotfold three disciplines to one (92:36 shots).

Superb recovery from engine woes

THe story of Ben Tuck’s 2016 Caterham Supersport campaign can be summed up as – ‘a season of two halves’. With engine problems, reliability issues and crash damage marring the first half of 2016, followed by a brace of wins, fastest laps and a lap record in the second.

2017 is shaping up to follow a similar pattern if the early season is anything to go by. Although the first four races of 2017 have netted two thirds and a second, there has also been a heavy crash resulting in a retirement, and engine reliability problems. In the latest instalment at Brands Hatch at the weekend, Ben suffered more engine woes.

Qualifying saw Ben’s engine gradually fail over the session until he retired with four minutes to go, after banking a lap good enough for only eighth on the grid. With only two hours before race 1, Ben’s team – PT Sports Cars, pulled out all the stops to install a brand new engine in just 90 minutes, salvaging the chance to fight for a result. In an uncanny repeat of the engine problems Ben suffered at Zolder in 2016, yet another new engine was found wanting. At Zolder the team were able to work

through the night to repair the problem. However, with just minutes to spare, Ben took to the Brands Hatch track with an engine that was down on power and that went on to spill hot engine oil on his legs and pedals. As his pace slowed in the race, Ben had to defend his position fiercely, and succeeded in losing only one place before the flag to finish the race in ninth. overnight investigations failed to provide a remedy and Ben was resigned to may be face a frustrating half hour of gradually falling backwards though the field in race 2. However the motorsport roller-

coaster ride had more drama to serve up.

At the start Ben succeeded in sticking with the top pack and snatched a place on the first lap.

Fighting hard, he was able to minimise his power deficit to maintain his position and by lap 20 he’d found a way past to move up to seventh place. Five laps later the close battle at the front ended with the leader and the second place man crashing out at Paddock Hill Bend, resulting in the race being neutralised under Code 60 rules, which restrict each driver to maintain position and drive at 60kph whilst the marshals dealt with the

incident. This gave Ben a crucial opportunity to take advantage of the restart of full racing. The Green Flag was given during the last lap and Ben timed his move perfectly to skip another place up to fourth position. This took him into the battle for the second place. To minimise his power shortfall Ben, followed inches from the car in front until the last second before jinking out in a bid for third across the line missing the final podium slot by just 900ths of a second.

“We did all we could this weekend to deal with the situation that developed with the engine. The whole team pulled together, not just on the engine change but all weekend. Aviamics, Trafalgar and Saturn were key to us continuing this weekend so thanks go to them and also to Park Plaza.”

With the demise of the engine, Ben faced another uphill struggle as the weekend began. But the salvage of a ninth place and a fourth place showed huge determination and perseverance and minimised the damage, keeping Ben in the game for the Championship Title.

Ben next races at Donington Park at the Caterham Festival on 8th and 9th of July.

20 — BULLETIN JULY 2017

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

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TWINWOOD FESTIVAL • BEDFORDSHIRE • 25, 26, 27, 28 AUGUST 2017

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THREE ANDAHALF DAYS OF ENTERTAINMENT STARTING FROM FRIDAY 25TH AUGUST

TrINITY MeTHoDIST CHurCH

Sunday July 2nd 10.30am Mrs. Sue Plant a Cafe style service.

Sunday July 9th 09.30am Communion service led by ref Peter Byass.

10.30am Again the service will be led by rev. Peter Byass.

Sunday July 16th 10.30am Helen Boshier will lead the service.

6.00pm.

The service will be organised as a local arrangement The Band will accompany.

Sunday July 23rd 10.30am rev. Peter Byass will lead a communion service.

Sunday July 30th NO SERVICE at TrINITY but a service will be held at 10.30am at Upper Caldecote Methodist Church led by Paul Cooper.

No evening service at Trinity but there will be a Circuit service of Healing and Laying on of hands at Cardington Methodist church led by rev. Andrew Hollins.

Thursday 6th July from 2 pm-4pm Cream teas will be served in the Footprints room £3 in aid of Christian Aid. Saturday 15th July The Gresley Male Voice Choir will give a concert at 7.15pm Tickets £7 in advance from Biggleswade express Shortmead Street or £8 on the door.

Sunday August 6th 10.30am. Cafe style service led by rev. Peter Byass.

Sunday August 13th 09.30 am A communion service led by rev.

Andrew Hollins.

10.30am.

This will be a local arrangement t.b.a.

Sunday August 20th 10.30am Mr Chris Fox will lead worship.

Sunday August 27th 10.30a.m the service will be led by rev. Peter Byass.

Thursday 10th August 12 noon 1.30pm A Light lunch of Soup, roll, cake and coffee or tea for £4. In aid of Christian Aid.

What’s your best bit?

Quarry Theatre, Bedford July 21-23

From Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd July Bedford will host the 11th International Bedford Festival Fringe bringing to the town a carefully selected programme of comedy, theatre, live music, film, dance and physical theatre to your doorstep. All these events will be held exclusively at The Quarry Theatre.

So this year we are going small.

Why you ask? Well, frankly because I (James… Pride of Bedford Award Winner 2016!) now have a baby and on top of this, am also planning a wedding for 4th August. I thought organising a tenday festival as well might be pushing it a little.

Good things can come in small packages so they say! even over three days the team have crammed in some 40+ events.

The brochure is now live and all events are on sale so please visit www.bedfringe.com to start your fringe journey!

Website: www.bedfringe.com Box office: 01234 362337

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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JULY 2017 BULLETIN — 21

Biggleswade Baptist Church is pleased to be hosting an Alpha course this coming autumn.

Alpha is an opportunity to explore life and the Christian faith in a friendly, open and informal environment. Every session starts with a free meal and has a short talk followed by discussions in small groups. Over 29 million people in 169 countries have done the course!

Following an introductory evening at 7.30pm on Thursday 14th September, there are 10 weekly sessions (all Thursdays, all 7.30-9.30pm), with a break for half term.

If you would like to reserve a place, or have any questions about the course, please call 01767 312667 (church office), text 07818 628235; or e-mail alpha@bbchurch.org.uk

www.alpha/org

BIGGLESWADE SPORTS MEETING 67th Annual Athletic & Grass Track & Cycle Meeting

UNDER AAA RULES RULES – BCF LAWS

FAIRFIELD, BIGGLESWADE 1pm SATURDAY 8th JULY 2017

TRACK EVENTS FOR ALL AGES –MALE AND FEMALE

Admission: Adults 50p, Children 20p MEDAL & PRIZES FOR ALL EVENTS INCLUDING RELAYS

Des Ball, Event Secretary Tel: 01767 313790

22 — BULLETIN JULY 2017

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– In aid of KeeCH CoTTAGe CHILDreNS EAST BEDS CONCERT HoSPICe BAND AT M&CO FASHION SHOW MOGGERHANGER! 7pm Wednesday July 12th Potton Institute Club Station oad, Potton Tickets £6 available Tysoes Potton More Info Tel Potton 260293

–––––––––––––––––––––––– BEESTON WALK FOR HEALTH

We meet every Monday at 10.00 a.m. by the letter box at the junction of The Crescent and The Green. The walk is a first level gentle walk so we do about 30 – 40 minutes in the flat fields beyond Beeston Green. I will walk as slowly as the slowest person needs. It’s a ‘just turn up’ walk.

Gillian Wilkes 07890 232685 grewilkes@gmail.com

–––––––––––––––––––––––– SANDY WALKS 4 HEALTH

Sandy Walks 4 Health meet every Wednesday.

These are free short walks ofabout an hour, with a trained walk leader.

All welcome, no need to book; just turn up. Walks start at 10am, meeting in Sandy Market Place outside the opticians.

For more information contact: Cathy 01767692182, or Jane Fryer 01767691455, or Mike Fayers (Health walks manager) 01234832619

–––––––––––––––––––––––– MAYFLOWER SOCIAL CLUB

We are a social club for the over 50’s and we are located at Charter House at St Andrews Church in Biggleswade.

We meet every Wednesday and Fridays from 2pm – 4pm We have various activities including games, raffles, bingo and often have a speaker attend to share different topics with us.

We also organise day trips out, Christmas dinner and much much more.

We are a friendly group of all different ages, all are welcome and we are always looking for new members.

There is an entrance fee of £1 per person.

There is a bus service available in the Biggleswade area for a nominal fee of £1.00, which is a return journey.

For any other information please call 01767 314652 and ask for Beryl or 01767 316711 and ask for eileen.

–––––––––––––––––––––––– THE SANDY UKULELE GROUP meet every Friday at the Baptist Chapel Hall, Bedford road, Sandy. 7pm till 9pm. For more information on joining the group please email the group : Sandyukulelegroup1@gmail.com www.Sandyukulelegroup.com

This year, the theme is “Best of British”, and once again, there will be a wide range of music from every corner of ‘this sceptred isle’: from Henry VIII’s very own ‘Pastime with Good Companie’, to a James Bond theme medley - an eclectic mix with something for all the family to enjoy.

As usual, the audience are invited to bring a picnic, and rugs or chairs and to sit in the grounds whilst enjoying the wide selection of music.

Not forgetting the opportunity to purchase fantastic home made ice-cream from Mr and Mrs Maynard.

So make a date in your diaries East Beds Concert Band at Moggerhanger Playing Fields, Saturday 15th July Gates open at 2pm and concert starts at 3pm. Tickets on the door Adults £8, children £5 Family ticket (2+2) £18

––––––––––––––––––––––––

TENNIS FOR

BEGINNERS CHILDREN – ADULTS SENIORS EXPERIENCED PL AYERS

ALL WELCOME Jack: 01767 692242 www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk

–––––––––––––––––––––––– SANDY ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY Founded in 2014 by residents of Sandy and surrounding areas, we are a group of keen astronomers of all abilities.

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

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

Wrap up warm and we’ll see you there!

–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– BADMINTON CANCER SUPPORT We are a social mixed group who meet every Thursday night at Stratton School to play GROUP Badminton, from 8pm till 10pm in the Sports BIGGLeSWADe AND SurrouNDING VILLAGeS We are a group for Cancer patients their families and friends.

A place to meet others and share mutual support. Come and have a chat, a cup of tea or coffee in a friendly, informal confidential environment.

We look forward to meeting you. every first and third Thursday of the month.

The Community rooms, Baptist Church 24, London road, Biggleswade SG18 8eB 1pm - 3pm Telephone, Secretary Amanda 01767 313662 or Gina 07812796581 csgbiggleswade@gmail.com FB. Cancer Support Group Biggleswade.

Hall, we are of mixed ability but most are of an intermediate standard To find out more please contact Alan on 07974187866 or Colin on 01767 317099

–––––––––––––––––––––––– We invite all stroke survivors & their carers to join our

IVEL STROKE CLUB

Meetings are held at Stonecroft, St Swithins Way, Sandy on the third Monday of each month 7.30pm.

Transport can be arranged.

Speakers, outings & entertainment througout the year.

Please contact 01767 680503 for further imformation.

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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– ST MArY MAGDALeNe CHurCH DuNToN

SUMMER FAYRE

This year’s Summer Fayre will be held on Sunday, 9 July. Doors open at 11.30am. refreshments include a BBQ, Cream Teas and Maynards’ ice cream. There will be lots of games and stalls run by both church and village community groups, including our famous homemade cake stall and raffle with a range of prizes!

For those of an artistic nature there will be an art competition open to all ages. The theme is ‘My Idea of Heaven’. entries should be A4 size, with name and age, if under 18, on the back. There will be prizes for each age group.

There will be something for all the family so come along and join the fun. A warm welcome is guaranteed and entry is Free!

For more information on the competition or to have a stall at the Fayre please contact Barbara Mowbray on 01767 601157 or catbells54@gmail.com

–––––––––––––––––––––––– roTArY CLuB oF BIGGLeSWADe IVeL

BIGGLESWADE GREEN WHEEL

COMMUNITY WALKS

Jordan’s Mill Charity Fun Day Saturday 6th May 9.30am registration for the walk 10am – 4pm for the Charity Day Choose either 7 ½ & 3 ½ mile walks and enjoy the charity stands and tea For further details of the walks contact Colin McCartney www, ivelrotary.org.uk or contact 01767314669 For full details and walk entry form For details of manning or visiting a stand at the Charity Day contact Dawn Walton at dawn.walton@jordans mill.com Toby Frost at toby.frost@jordansmill.com

–––––––––––––––––––––––– THE IVEL BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT CENTRE HAS A LoVeD oNe DIeD? Perhaps we can help you at our drop-in centre at: The Community Rooms, Baptist church, 24 London Road, Biggleswade SG18 8EB Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon Telephone: Carole or Jill on 07704 734225 for more information.

• A place of friendship, compassion and understanding.

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

• Somewhere to meet others coping with bereavement issues.

• Come and make new friends – A warm welcome awaits you.

–––––––––––––––––––––––– BIGGLESWADE WALK FOR HEALTH Two regular Weekly Walks 40-90 minutes Plus one for those who wish to go further Wednesdays at 10.00am Walking with John and his team. Meeting at Dan Albone Car Park, Shortmead Street, Biggleswade Thursdays at 10.00am Walking with rosario and his team. Meeting outside Stratton School Gates, Biggleswade JuST TurN uP For those looking to do more: Tuesday at 2.00pm A Medium to Fast Walk of 1.5 – 2hrs For further details please contact: Janette Sibley: Tel: 0777 154 0117 e-mail: janette@sibley.me.uk Mike Fayers, Bedfordshire Health Walks Manager, Bedfordshire rural Communities Charity Tel: 01234 832619 e-mail: mikef@bedsrcc.org.uk, The old School, Cardington MK44 3SX

roYAL BrITISH LeGIoN CoMMITTee MeeTINGS The meetings take place St Andrews Church rooms.

26th July 17 @ 7:30pm 30th August 17 @ 7:30pm 27th September @ 3pm 25th October @ 3pm The AGM will be held on 29th November 17.

We are actively recruiting younger supporters to the organisation. You do not need to be military, ex-military or have any affinity with the military to get involved, we are only asking for enthusiasm and support.

Please feel free to attend any of the meetings and look on the rBL website to see what the charity does.

–––––––––––––––––––––––– ST SWITHuN’S CHurCH, SANDY

OPEN CHURCHES WEEKEND

Saturday and Sunday, 15th and 16th July 12.00-5.00pm.

Cream teas, trips up the tower, abseiling teddies, books and more.

SAVe THe CHILDreN Thanks to all of you who supported SAVe THe CHILDreN at the last QuINGo you helped raise £534 and the eASTer TrAIL/CoFFee MorNING where you helped raise £623.

The next

––––––––––––––––––––––––

QUINGOS

are September 21st, October 19th and November 16th.

THE CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

are December 5th/7th If you are interested in any of these events please email Susan superduch5@gmail.com or ring 07773962347

–––––––––––––––––––––––– BUGGY FIT CLASSES Thursday 1pm-2pm The Weatherly Centre Orchard Close Biggleswade SG18 0NE To book, please email robyn1.sg@gmail.com or call 0300 300 5125.

Tuesday 12-2pm Saxon Pool and Leisure Centre, Biggleswade £2 per session

WALKING FOOTBALL

Tuesday 2pm-3pm @ Saxon Pool & Leisure Centre, Biggleswade £1.50 per session Please note: all classes are subject to change, so please email us on physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk for more information

–––––––––––––––––––––––– SANDY ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY

Founded in 2014 by residents of Sandy and surrounding areas, we are a group of keen astronomers of all abilities.

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

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

Wrap up warm and we’ll see you there!

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

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

JULY 2017 BULLETIN — 23

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www.pcdrivestyle.co.uk The Bulletin series are independent magazines with no affiliation to any other organisation. ©2017 rosetta Publishing Ltd. 30 radwell road, Milton ernest MK44 1SH. Tel: 07894 935952 or 07724 905406. email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com or advertising@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Mortons Print Limited. Newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6Jr