










![]()












It’s our bir thday! As we turn 21, we want to share our celebrations with you all and give our thanks to ever yone that has helped us to reach this incredible milestone! We continue to be bowled over by the suppor t we receive form our community so thank you all for trusting us to do the job we love so much!
This month is always a favourite of ours as we look for ward to the Mill fair once again this year (if you are a first time visitor make sure you book your tickets in advance - see the adver t on our back page for more info!) We’ll be there once again this year so please do stop by our stand and say hello! If you fancy getting involved with this year ’s event, then the Mill team are eager to sign up extra volunteers - please get in touch with them by emailing them at enquiries@stotfoldmill com - In a nod to the Mill event, we hope you like what is probably our cutest front cover to date! Taken at the Mill fields, this gorgeous shot was captured by Nikki Lane and we think it’s just adorable. Thanks Nikki for your incredible pictures (more of which are inside!)
Please keep an eye out for a whole host of for thcoming events taking place in Stotfold, cour tesy of our Town Council, full details can be found on Page 29. ( The countdown to STOTFEST is officially on!!)
Also, do you own Stotfold’s Best Kept Garden? You might be in with the chance to win £100 wor th of garden centre vouchers! (see page 8 for more details!)
Until next time...

Joanne - Editor
With thanks to this month’s contributors:
Nikki Lane (FRONT COVER) HRH King Charles III*
Stotfold Town Council, SFC, Stotfold Mill, Our local schools & churches, Stotfold Ar t Group, The Garden House Hospice, & all our usual regular contributors, adver tisers & deliver y helpers


Contact: stotfold news@yahoo co uk or write to us at Stotfold News Magazine, 78 Hitchin Road, Stotfold, Her tfordshire, SG5 4HT Tel: 01462 731986
You can also contact us via our facebook page Deliveries: We have over 100 volunteers that deliver the Stotfold News Magazine If for any reason you do not receive your copy of the magazine please contact us to let us know Published by Stotfold News Ltd Printed in memor y of Roy West




5


Local News
SPECIAL FEATURE - Grave Matters
Update from Stotfold Mill
NEW Stotfold Business Bulletin
Stotfold Daily Diar y Letters to the Editor
Family Announcements
News from Stotfold Town Council Update from the NEED Project Local Spor ts News
Update from Stotfold Football Club
Update from Stotfold Junior FC Church News
NEW Readers Quiz with Mike Beedle Down Memor y Lane
Page 5-12
Page 11
Page 13
Page 14-15
Page 16-17
Page 18-19
Page 20
Page 29
Page 30
Page 31
Page 32
Page 33
Page 34-35
Page 36
Page 37
All this, alongside all our usual news and events from our local schools, groups & organisations..
Please note: our adver tising deadline will be the 6th May Call us on 01462 731986 or email us at: stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk * April fools!


General Helplines:
Citizen’s Advice Bureau
01525 402742
Samaritans 01462 455333
Stotfold Good Neighbour Group 07599 925587
Churches
Hope Chapel 01462 686803
King’s Baptist Church 01462 730521
Methodist Church 01462 731167
Salvation Army Hall 01462 731072
St Mar y’s Church 01462 730218
Fair field Community Church 07376 740410
Local Council
Stotfold Town Council 01462 730064
Central Bedfordshire Council 0300 300 8000
Doctor
Larksfield Surger y Enquiries
01462 732200
Out of Hours Ser vice: Call 111
Hospitals
Bedford Hospital 01234 355122
Lister Hospital 01438 314333
Transpor t
Whitbread Wanderbus
Household Emergencies
Electricity Emergencies
0300 123 3023
0800 783 8838
Gas Emergencies 0800 111999
Librar y
Stotfold Librar y 0300 300 8068
Police
Beds Police (Crime repor ting)
01234 841212
Crimestoppers 0800 555111
Hall Hire
St Mar y's Church Hall 07727 688877
Roecroft Centre 07727 688877
Stotfold Memorial Hall 01462 730064
Comunity Room/Maple Room (Greenacre) 01462 730064
Schools
Etonbur y Academy
01462 730391
Pix Brook Academy 01462 416243
Fair field Park Lower School 01462 830000
Roecroft Lower School
01462 730336
St Mar y’s Academy 01462 730343
Samuel Whitbread Academy 01462 629900
Taxi Ser vice
Greenacre Transfers www.greenacretransfers.co.uk
Airpor ts & Chauffeur Ser vices 07555 70 78 48
Saturday 2nd Stotfold Duck Race
Wednesday 6th STC Annual Town Council meeting
Wednesday 13th STC Public Realm Committee meeting
Saturday 16th Plant Sale & Coffee Morning
St Mar y’s Church Hall 10-12 noon
Wednesday 20th STC Community Engagement meeting
Friday 22nd Stotfold FC Quiz Nite (see page 32 for details)
Saturday 23rd Pippin Open Morning 10-12noon (see P33)
Wednesday 27th STC Building Management meeting
Friday 12th Stotfold FC General Knowledge Quiz for details Email: absaunders@ntlworld com
Saturday 13th Auction of Promises St Mar y’s Church Hall 7 30pm star t
Saturday 27th - STOTFEST 2026
Saturday 4th or 11th Summer Fete –St Mar y’s Vicarage Garden 2-4pm.
AUGUST
Saturday 8th Cars On The Green, Stotfold from 2pm Monday 31st Stotfold Walking Market
4th Stotfold FC General Knowledge Quiz for details Email:absaunders@ntlworld com 12th & 13th - Flower Festival - St Mar y’s Church
OCTOBER
Saturday 3rd Jigsaw Sale – St Mar y’s Church Hall 10-12
NOVEMBER
Saturday 7th Winter Fair St Mar y’s Church Hall 2-4pm
Sunday 8th Remembrance Parade & Ser vice
Saturday 14th Table Top Sale St Mar y’s Church Hall

If you have happened to pass Mill Lane over the last few weeks you will have seen these adorable visitors to the ‘Mill field’ captured below by local photography enthusiast Nikki Lane.
The lambs are currently on summer vacation, away from their usual residence at Boundar y Farm, along the A507



Our super cute visitors will soon be depar ting to make way for the arrival of this year ’s Mill Fair in May.If you do happen to pay them a visit, please be conscious that they are still ver y young Please keep all dogs on leads in nearby fields. Local ‘celebrity’ pony Pumpkin was non too impressed with their cuteness, judging by his expression!

As par t of the latest Stotfold Town Council initiative to showcase the work of local ar tists, Stotfold Acrylic Artist Terry Wood will be exhibiting his paintings at the Greenacre Gallery, Greenacre Centre, Valerian Way, Stotfold SG5 4HG between 27th March - 17th July
All work is available to buy.

Terry’s work can be seen by visiting www.artbyterrywood.co.uk

These amazing fundraising ladies are back for 2026 with this year ’s Stotfold Challenge now firmly taking shape!
What is The Stotfold Challenge?
The Stotfold Challenge is a community fundraising event organised by the Ams Army team Sofia, Jen, Jen, and Lauren. The ladies first launched the challenge last year to raise money for DKMS, a charity close to their hear ts as Sofia’s daughter received a life - saving bone marrow transplant at age 13 after battling leukaemia four times
Last year ’s event was a huge success, with an amazing community atmosphere and incredible suppor t This Year the ladies are excited to bring the Stotfold Challenge back with a few improvements to raise even more for their chosen charity.
Arlesey Womens Institute - Come along and join us at Arlesey WI Hall Tuesday 12th May at 7pm

To celebrate World Bee Day later this month, the WI Hall will be a buzzing hive of activity for our May Par ty. Wear something Bee related if you can (optional) There will ‘bee’ a Bee Quiz will you ‘bee’ our Queen Bee? You can also expect some Miss -Bee -Having, Fly down and join us at the earlier time of 7pm £10 00 per person to include Hot Box Food, Vegetarian Option available If you’re not a member and wish to attend please call Rita on 01462 638347



This year the Stotfold Challenge has a 5km run, a 5km colour run and under 7s 1km run. for 2026, the challenge is proudly suppor ted by Stotfold Junior Football Club in honour of their 50th anniversar y year.. for this reason, the event will have its own football theme! Are you at Stotfold Junior player? - All players are being encouraged to wear your SJFC shir t !!! It’s also the World Cup, so the challenge team would love for you to wear your Home Countries shir t !!
The goal for 2026 is to bring the community together once again and to have a great day! Most impor tantly, the Stotfold Challenge team would dearly love to raise as much money as possible for DKMS.

There’s still time to sign up - use the following link or join via the groups dedicated facebook event page www.ticketsource.co.uk/amsarmyevents
6th MAY - 7 00PM Stephen Brown
It’s ‘Hell on Wheels’ being a Driving Instructor. Hilarious Anecdotes and more

For more information, please email fair fieldbedswi@gmail.com Ever yone is welcome! You do not need to live at Fair field to attend!

We welcomed a new reader to our magazine on April 1st, seems His Majesty was rather taken by our latest issue!
A few of our followers were taken in, with a couple of you even congratulating us. (your secret is safe with us!!)
We might just have to post His Royal Highness a copy of our next edition, just to see if we can really make this happen! Watch this space!

Take a photo of this on your phone for reference!

Greenacre Centre • The Co-op • The Barn • Kings Baptist Church • Stotfold Conser vative Club • Stotfold Football Club • Stotfold Memorial Hall • Roecroft School • Hitchin Road Recreational Ground • Pippin PreSchool • Etonbur y Academy • St Mar y’s Academy • Pix Brook Academy • Stotfold Salvation Army Hall • The Mossman Centre • The Rooms• Stotfold Mill • MJ Ryalls (Baldock Road) • Stotfold Bowls Club (internal) • Stotfold Football Club Brand new location** Georges Place, High Street ** Please check individual accessibility as some facilities may have their own opening hours.

Under 10’s Sides & back Beard Trims OAP Concessions Mon-Fri Mon 9am-5 30pm Tues 9am-6pm Wed 9am-7 30pm Thus 9am-6pm Fri 9am-6pm Sat 7.30am-5pm

Walk-ins & appointments available!

WOW! Understandably, our new monthly competition feature is proving incredibly popula This month we have two amazing prizes to give away yet again! We have been kindly donated a beautiful bouquet of flowers, cour tesy of Bronte’s Floral Designs AND a choice of three luxurious beauty treatments, cour tesy of Sarah Scoot Beauty Choose from an eyebrow shape,scalp massage facial, back massage, hydrojelly facemask or heated eye mask!

All you have to do to enter is to simply email us at stotfold news@yahoo co uk and tell us why you’d like to win either prize! As always the more originality, the better! If you prefer, you can always message us through our social media pages. Good luck!
Last month’s winners were Marissa Cameron & Denise Tiernan.





As regular readers will be aware, The Garden House Hospice, Letchwor th is a charity we like to suppor t at the Stotfold News Magazine. This spring, the Hospice are looking for ward to an array of colour in their stunning garden, which is enhanced by the wildflowers that people dedicate each year in memor y of their loved ones

Crime Figures Stotfold & Fair field JANUARY 2026
( The most recent crime figures available from the Police national website)
Violence & sexual offences - 13
Antisocial behaviour - 13
Criminal damange & arson - 1
Drugs - 4
Other crime - 10
Source: www.police.co.uk You can repor t crimes online. REMEMBER - PLEASE REPORT NON URGENT TO OUR LOCAL POLICE USING THE 101 NUMBER In a emergency always call 999.
For each flower dedicated, your loved one’s name will be printed on a display for all to see at The Wildflower and Remembrance Afternoon and listed on the Garden House website. There is no limit to the number of flowers you choose to dedicate, but there is a minimum donation of £5 per flower.
On Sunday 28th June at 2pm the Hospice will be holding their annual Wildflower and Remembrance Afternoon in their grounds To find out more please visit: ghhospicecare org uk/the -wildflowers
This afternoon will give people the oppor tunity to spend some time in their beautiful garden and have time to reflect on their loved ones Their will be a shor t ser vice with readings, poems and music, and refreshments will be available
Ever yone is welcome



Abdominal aor tic aneur ysm (AAA) screening is offered to patients of Larksfield Surger y as a way of checking if there’s a bulge or swelling in the aor ta, the main blood vessel that runs from your hear t down through your chest and abdomen. This bulge or swelling is called an abdominal aor tic aneur ysm or AAA. It can be serious if it’s not spotted early because it could get bigger and eventually burst. AAA occurs when the walls of the aor ta weaken and expand. As the wall of the aor ta stretches, it becomes weaker and can rupture Around 85 out of 100 people die when an aneur ysm bursts
If you have an AAA, you will not usually notice any symptoms.

This screening programme has been set up with the aim to reduce the number of deaths caused by AAA by up to 50 percent. Risk factors for this condition include smoking, high blood pressure or close family histor y. In England, screening for AAA is offered to men during the year they turn 65. Screening for AAA isn’t routinely offered to women, men under 65 or people who’ve already been treated for an AAA, this is because the risk of an AAA is much smaller in these groups If you are male and over the age of 65 and have not been invited for AAA screening or have missed your screening appointment, you can self-refer – see details below
For patients registered at Shefford, Lower Stondon and Larksfield Surgeries, contact Ivel Valley South PCN at blmkicb carecoordinator ivs@nhs net AAA Screening Office, call 01234 792207
For fur ther information go to www bedfordshirehospitals nhs uk/our- ser vices/abdominalaor tic-aneur ysm-aaa - screening/



Thank you to ever yone that got in touch regarding our first feature last month concerning grave ownership in Stotfold. This month, Stotfold Town Council Cemeter y Officer Sue Ward talks us through the process of Understanding Unsafe or Unstable Memorials in Stotfold Cemeter y
Memorials are an impor tant way to remember loved ones, but over time they can become unstable due to ground settlement, weathering, poor original installation, or other factors Stotfold Town Council have a legal duty of care to keep the cemeter y safe for visitors, staff, and contractors Under health and safety legislation and guidance from bodies like the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Ministr y of Justice, burial authorities must identify and address unstable memorials to prevent accidents
What makes a memorial unsafe? A memorial is considered unstable if it fails basic stability tests most commonly the "hand test," where reasonable pressure causes it to move or lean excessively and risks toppling. Stotfold Town Council carries out regular memorial safety inspectionsoften ever y 5 years for most memorials, though higher-risk ones may be checked more frequently.
During inspections:
• Trained staff assess each memorial for stability.
• We take immediate steps to make it temporarily safe (e.g., attaching a warning notice, cordoning off the area, or laying it flat if necessar y to eliminate the risk).
• We aim to reach out to the family involved to discuss possible remediation within a reasonable timeframe
The primar y responsibility for maintaining the memorial in a safe condition rests with the grave owner (or their successors), as set out in the Exclusive Right of Burial agreement and our Memorials Policy

What happens if your family's memorial is affected?
If we identify a memorial as unstable:
• We will attach a clear warning notice or place signage nearby explaining the issue
• We tr y to contact the registered owner or known family members to inform them and give an oppor tunity to arrange repairs (often through a registered/approved memorial mason who follows current standards
• The Council may proceed to make the memorial safe at the owner's expense (recoverable if applicable), or lay it down temporarily
To help prevent future problems:
• Ensure any new memorial (or additional work) is installed by an approved monumental mason in accordance with BS 8415 standards and Stotfold's Memorials Policy
• Regularly check your memorial during visits
If you've seen a warning notice on a memorial, have concerns about stability, or would like advice on repairs/installation, please contact Sue our Stotfold Town Council Cemeter y Officer directly on 01462 730064 and we wil do our ver y best to assist.
Quality used cars & vans supplied Excellent after sales care, our warrantees cover both parts & labour
Motor vehicle servicing and general repair work undertaken, any make or model

The Wanderbus is community bus ser vice that is open to ALL passengers in the same way as all other bus ser vices, whatever your age! (NB. they accept Concessionar y Travel passes and cash fares)
Timetable copies are available from the driver or from local village shops and surgeries or call 0300-123-3023 / www wanderbus org uk
On weekdays, the Wanderbus run scheduled weekly, bi-weekly or monthly public ser vices – picking up passengers in and around the villages and taking them to and from local and regional town & shopping centres There is even a schedule for day trips too!
Next time you fancy a day out? Why not take the hassle out of getting there and take a look at what they have to offer www.wanderbus.org.uk


Thank you to ever yone that got in touch regarding this brand new event added to the Stotfold Calendar for 2026! Are you a local business or community organisation looking to promote yourselves and help raise funds for a great cause at the same time? Stotfold Flower Festival takes place on September 12th & 13th and will see St Mar y’s Church bloom in to colour Much like the Christmas Tree Festival, flower arrangements will be displayed inside the church, each with their own creative theme Exhibitors are invited to use their own ‘prop’ to base their arrangement around, echoing their individual business or local group Think car tyres, think welly boots, think spor ts equipment - you get the idea!! Arrangements can be made for you OR by the church - there is no need to be a dab hand in floristr y yourself - All you need to supply is the business prop and the idea! There’s still time to get involved, contact Chris Thorne - thorne936@googlemail.com to allocate your spot. All proceeds to be shared between Garden House Hospice and St. Mar y’s Church, Stotfold.
Our secretar y Tara Shaw loves birds and has captured the irridesent colours of our native starling in this watercolour The mandarin duck has more exotic plumage!


You can see more of her work on www.tara - shaw.co.uk or By Tara Shaw on Etsy. For more details on our friendly group, please contact 07821 502367

It’s just a couple of weeks until Stotfold’s biggest event of the year – Stotfold Mill Steam Fair and Countr y Show returns on the 9th -10th May If you’ve never been to our Steam Fair before, you’re in for a real treat –there’s so much to see and do And if you’re a returning visitor, you’ll know it’s a wonder fully relaxed day out for the whole family – including well-behaved dogs!
This year, we’re bringing back all your favourite attractions, including exhibitions of vintage steam engines and vehicles, fairground rides, a craft and trade tent, the bar tent (complete with this year ’s specially named beer) and our arena packed with per formances to delight all ages There’s also our free kids’ bouncy castle play zone –sponsored by the Mill - to keep the little ones enter tained for hours The legendar y Wall of Death returns for 2026, showcasing incredible daredevil motorbike skills. Weather permitting, we’re also hoping for a special flypast from the Battle of Britain Memorial flight on the Sunday.
We’ll have live music throughout the weekend to keep the atmosphere buzzing. Things kick off with our hugely popular “Live at the Mill” on Friday 8th May, featuring PopScene and Allergy. This is a ticketed over-18s event, running from 7:00pm to 11:30pm in the bar tent
There’s plenty more enter tainment across the weekend, including free live music on Saturday afternoon and evening in the bar tent Highlights include our kids’ disco from 5:30pm–6:30pm, followed by live bands: Deser t Penguins (7:00pm–8:45pm) and Hot Mess (9:15pm–11:00pm) See you on the dance floor!
Of course, don’t forget to take the time to visit the Mill itself and witness living histor y in motion A watermill has stood on the site of the current Stotfold Mill beside the River Ivel for over a thousand years Our Mill is cer tainly one of the oldest recorded buildings in Stotfold - the first written evidence is the mention of four mills in Stotfold in the Domesday book of 1086!

Last year, you may remember that our iconic Mill chimney was under wraps during our annual events while essential maintenance was carried out We’re delighted to say it has now been fully restored to its former glor y This year, our focus turns to restoring the water wheel itself which requires replacement of its corroded buckets and broken cast iron brackets to keep it in full working order The Mill and all our events are run entirely by dedicated volunteers Ever y penny raised – through events, sales of Mill flour and oats, takings from Randall’s Tearoom, the Kingfisher Shop, and our summer activities – all go directly towards the upkeep and restoration of the Mill and its beautiful Nature Reser ve
All tickets - including Live at the Mill, event camping and entr y to the show on the 9th and 10th May can be purchased at: https://www. stotfoldmill.com/events/ Advance tickets are available online at the reduced price of £12.50 for adults (16+), and £4.00 for children (under 4’s go free). Tickets can also be purchased on the door for the price of £14.00 for adults and £5 00 for children, (under 4’s go free) This year we will be issuing wristbands or handstamps to all our visitors as an increased security measure
We look for ward to welcoming you to our 22nd annual event and will be keeping ever y thing crossed for a sunny weekend!







• Toe Nail & Finger Nail Clippin
• Cracked Heels / Fissures
• Diabetic Foot Care
• Soothing Foot Massage
• Advice on Footwear
• Ingrown Toenails / Thickened & Fungal Nail Management


“The authentic tastes of the deep south ser ved with some good old southern hospitality.” That’s what we are promised at the newly opened Hickor y’s Smokehouse on Stotfold Road, Letchwor th. Known to many as the old Two Chimney pub, the Smokehouse opened it’s doors in April after an extensive refurbishment and huge restaurant extension


Find out more by visiting: https://hickor ys co uk/ or by looking them up on their social media pages

Award-winning Stotfold salon Hair by Phillip is proud to announce the promotion of three key team members: Jodie and Sophie have been promoted to Senior Stylists, while Maddie has advanced from Graduate to Stylist
These milestones reflect their immense dedication to technical excellence and client care "Watching them thrive has been incredible," says Owner Gemma Miles "These promotions celebrate their passion and the bright futures ahead of them " With over 50 years of heritage, Hair by Phillip continues to lead the region in professional development and world-class styling To book an appointment please visit www.hairbyphillip.co.uk.




The site of the former Lower Stondon golf club has been completely reimagined following a full internal refurbishment and redesign The building has been repurposed into a relaxed bistro and high-quality events venue, with a familyfriendly hospitality experience designed to showcase the area's panoramic views
“We wanted to create something that feels both comfor ting and sophisticated,” says owner Carla “It’s about high-quality food and a relaxing atmosphere where you can stay for a three -course Sunday lunch or just pop in for coffee and cake ” To find out more visit mountpleasantview.co.uk

The Pearson Dog Pack has oened it’s doors to clients, offering home boarding, dog training and behavioural ser vices. Owner Emily is canine first aid level 3 qualified, fully insured and a Scentwork UK accredited trainer
Regular Stotfold News adver tiser Henlow Vets are thrilled to welcome the patients, clients, and staff of Royston Veterinar y Centre into their Henlow Vets family.


The Pearson Dog Pack aims to create a calm, structured fulfilling environment for all dogs in their care
Call Emily on 07985 197742 woof@thepearsondogpack co uk

Stotfold News Adver tiser Benedict Funeral Directors in Lower Stondon collected over 300 Easter Eggs for local good causes including the Need Project in Stotfold this year.
What an amazing effor t by all involved!

Henlow Veterinar y Centre was founded in June 2017 by Dr Anna Marshall-Brown (Veterinar y Surgeon) and Graeme Mason (Practice Manager) in Lower Stondon What began a small, four-person team grew quickly into a passionate mily of over 50 staff members, all dedicated to delivering tstanding clinical care and exceptional client ser vice eir approach has been recognized through multiple ards, including being voted the Best Vets in Bedfordshire two consecutive years a testament to the trust and ppor t of our community In October 2025, vets Melanie Carr and Hannah Mackenzie, along with deputy practice manager Becky Timmons, joined as owners and directors of Henlow Vets. Henlow Vets are truly excited about this new chapter! Royston Veterinar y Centre can be found at Flint Cross, Royston.




The Green Stotfold FREE- Contact 01462 730521
Har tbeeps -10:00 Happy House;Toddlers to age 5
11:15am - Baby Beeps; Babies sitting/walking
12:30pm - Baby Bells Babies 8 weeks - sitting
Stotfold Conser vative Club Term time only
Contact 07735 572828 / 07494 662112
Duplicate Bridge Club 1pm Roecroft Centre, Church Road
SG5 4NE All abilities welcome. Tel: 01462 730289
Email tonymarionwatkins@tiscali.co.uk
Shor t Mat Bowls: (indoor) at Stotfold Memorial Hall
2-4pm, all welcome For details call 01462 629575
Stotfold Methodist Monday Club Scrabble, chat & tea
Stotfold Conser vative Club 2pm All welcome If joining please call 07887 967996 to confirm venue
Stotfold Spanish Club - Alder Green, Stotfold
Contact 07947897303 mar tacanella@yahoo.co.uk
Rainbows The Mossman Centre SG5 4PB 5-6pm email stotfolddistrict@girlguidingher tfordshire org uk
Brownies The Mossman Centre SG5 4PB 6.15pm - 7.30pm email stotfolddistrict@girlguidingher tfordshire org uk
Stotfold Runners - Stotfold Football Club 7pm
Contact Stotfoldrunners24@gmail.com
TUESDAY
Stor y & Rhyme Time Stotfold Librar y SG5 4HG
10 30am-11am & 11 15am-11 45am Ages 0-5
Contact 0300 300 8068
Music 4 Memor y A creative space for families affected by Dementia. 2.15-3.45pm Salvation Army Hall, SG5 4LX
Contact@tibbs dementia co uk / 01234 210993
Whist Club. St Mar y’s Church Hall on alternate Tuesdays at 2pm Contact Elaine Drur y 07925 192007

TUESDAY cont..
Slimming World 4pm 5.30pm & 7pm
Stotfold Memorial Hall, Stotfold SG5 4HR
Dawn 07515557803 slimwithdawn@hotmail.co.uk
Fifth Stotfold Brownies For girls aged 4 - 7
5.30-6.25pm The Mossman Centre, Baldock Road
Contact Sarah Church on 07527 707031
Stotfold Beavers 6 00 - 7 15 pm during term time
Stotfold Scout Hut SG5 4PB Email: gslstotfold@gmail com
JKSK Karate 6 15 - 7 10pm Fair field Park Community Hall SG5 4GY 07742 820956 or email info@jksk.co.uk
Rainbows The Mossman Centre SG5 4PB 5 30-6 25pm email stotfolddistrict@girlguidingher tfordshire org uk
Stotfold Singers Roecroft Centre 7 30pm - 9 30pm £5 50 per session. First session free! stotfoldsingers@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY
Bumps to Babies (Stotfold Childrens Centre) drop in session, 9.15-11am Free suppor t ser vice.
Greenacre Centre, SG5 4HG Term time only
Little Stars Baby & Toddler Group’ 9 30-11 00am & 1 00-2 30pm Salvation Army Hall SG5 4LX
Home from Home drop in for tea, coffee & social activities
Kings Baptist Church 1-3pm The Green, Stotfold. Little Ruggers Lion class (5-8 years) – 4:00pm-4:45pm
Puma/Jaguar class (2-5 years) – 5:00-5:45pm
Contact 07956 238709
Stotfold Beavers 6 00-7 15 pm during term time
Stotfold Scout Hut SG5 4PB gslstotfold@gmail.com
Stotfold Scouts 7 30-9pm during term time
Stotfold Scout Hut SG5 4PB gslstotfold@gmail.com
JKSK Karate 6 30 – 7 30pm Pendleton Spor ts Centre SG15 6XS 07742 820956 or email info@jksk co uk
Stotfold Runners - Stotfold Football Club 7pm
Contact Stotfoldrunners24@gmail com
Stotfold Spanish Club - Alder Green, Stotfold
Contact 07947897303 mar tacanella@yahoo.co.uk
Dance Dimension Dance classes for children and adults
(Ballet, Tap, Street Dance) St Mar y’s Church Hall 07931 910655 dancedimension info@gmail com
Rainbows The Mossman Centre SG5 4PB 5.30-6.30pm stotfolddistrict@girlguidingher tfordshire org uk
Guides The Mossman Centre SG5 4PB 7-9pm email stotfolddistrict@girlguidingher tfordshire.org.uk
Just Out Youth Club 6pm - 8 30pm age 11-18
Roecroft Centre SG5 4NE Games, chill out area, drinks
DO YOU RUN A COMMUNITY CLUB OR CLASS? List it here!
SENsor y Morning 9 30am-12pm Stotfold Librar y SG5 4HG Recommended for children of all ages. Contact 0300 300 8068
Toast of the Town 2nd Thursday of the month, drop in social morning, Tea & toast 10 30-12noon All welcome
Stotfold Salvation Army Hall SG5 4LX
Stotfold Citizens Advice Stotfold Town Council OfficesGreenacre Centre, 10am-1pm 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month
Connect (Youth club for adults!) 4th Thursday of the month
10.30-12.30 Salvation Army Hall, SG5 4LX
Stotfold Ar t Group Self-guided ar t group 1 30-3 30pm
Roecroft Centre SG5 4NE Contact 07821 502 367 Email: stotfoldar tgroup@outlook com
Stotfold Cub Group 6.45-8pm during term time. Stotfold Scout Hut SG5 4PB gslstotfold@gmail com
Stotfold Runners - Stotfold Football Club 7pm
Contact Stotfoldrunners24@gmail com
Stotfold Spanish Club - Alder Green, Stotfold
Contact 07947897303 mar tacanella@yahoo co uk
Brownies The Mossman Centre SG5 4PB 6.15pm - 7.30pm email stotfolddistrict@girlguidingher tfordshire org uk
Just Out Youth Club age 11-18 Roecroft Centre SG5 4NE 6pm - 8.30pm Games, Tech, chill out area, refreshments.
FRIDAY
Knit and Knatter.10 30am-12pm for adults Stotfold Librar y Come and join our friendly knitting/crochet group and meet new friends Stotfold Librar y SG5 4HG
Stotfold Good Neighbour Group Friends on Friday 1 30-4 15 Drop in social afternoon
Stotfold Memorial Hall SG5 4HR Contact 07599 925587
Stotfold Good Neighbour Group chair based excercise, Stotfold Memorial Hall SG5 4HR Contact 07599 925587 to join the waiting list
Stotfold Spanish Club - Alder Green, Stotfold Contact 07947897303 mar tacanella@yahoo co uk
Cosy Colouring Ever y 1st Friday of the Month - 12pm-3pm. Stotfold Librar y SG5 4HG CANCELLED FOR APRIL ONLY
Board Game Club. 3 30pm - 5pm Recommended for families of all ages at Stotfold LIbrar y SG5 4HG
Jo Jingles Music & Movement classes for Babies & Preschoolers Fair field Community Hall SG5 4GY Contact 07971 578660
Stotfold Twirlers NEW VENUE Baton Twirling & Acro 6-8pm Contact Sonia crook@hotmail com for details
MY FAIR LADIES
(Red Hat Society) Social group for ladies over 50
Email:myfairladies2@ gmail.com
SATURDAY
Lego and Duplo Club 10am-3pm Recommended for families of all ages.Stotfold Librar y SG5 4HG
Contact 0300 300 8068
Pokemon Club. 10am-12pm for ages 6+.Come along to trade your own cards and play the trading game we have at the librar y! Stotfold Librar y SG5 4HG
Contact 0300 300 8068
Stotfold Spanish Club - Alder Green, Stotfold
Contact 07947 897 303 mar tacanella@yahoo.co.uk
Warhammer Club! NEW 1pm-3pm~Bring along your models to play this tabletop wargame with others. (Dedicated painting sessions will be held during school holidays only) Stotfold Librar y SG5 4HG 0300 300 8068
SUNDAY
Lion class (5-8 years) – 9:00am-9:45am.
Puma class (2-3 5 years) – 10:00am-10:45am
Lion class (3.5-5 years) – 11:00am-11:45am.
Hope Chapel Sunday School Sundays 9:15-10:00
Hope Chapel SG5 4NX Ages 5-15
Contact debmac2405@gmail com
Sewcial Sundays 2nd Sunday of the month, bring your sewing machine & projects 10am-4pm, £15
Fair field Community Hall Email: sew social 22@gmail com
JKSK Karate 5 – 6pm Stotfold Memorial Hall SG5 4HP 07742 820956 info@jksk co uk
STOTFOLD LIBR ARY MAY HALF TERM EVENTS.

Saturday 23rd May – 1pm-3pm, Elmer Day! Come dressed up in your most colour ful outfits. The librar y will provide stories, crafts and colouring activities.
Wednesday 27th May – 2pm-5pm, Crafts! Ask for a craft pack from a member of staff at the desk.
Friday 29th May – 9am-12pm, Crafts! Ask for a craft pack from a member of staff at the desk.
Saturday 30th May – 1pm-3pm, Warhammer Painting Session! Bring your own models and paints to complete in the librar y
Kidpreneurs Club sign up for either Wednesdays or Fridays, 4pm-5pm (not both), £190 investment per child for the entire term Enquiries and payments to be made directly to the club leader, Jacklyn, on dzhaklinilieva@gmail com Spaces are limited so be sure to secure your place soon!
KS SWIM SCHOOL
Swimming lessons for all & childrens ar tistic swimming
Email:ksswimschool @gmail.com
Email stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk
Librar y Open hours
Monday CLOSED Tuesday 9am-1pm Wednesday 2-6pm
Thursday 9am-1pm Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-4pm

Dear Editor,
I would like to express our appreciation for a local ser vice we recently discovered through Stotfold Magazine After seeing the adver tisement for JS Jets, we decided to tr y their patio, driveway, and gutter cleaning ser vice and we are ver y glad we did From the outset, Jacob’s professionalism stood out The booking process was straightfor ward, and he was prompt and cour teous in all communications When he arrived, Jacob worked efficiently and took great care with our proper ty The results were genuinely impressive: our patio looks almost brand new, the driveway is spotless, and the gutters are now completely clear and functioning properly
What par ticularly impressed us was his attention to detail and pride in his work It’s clear that he values customer satisfaction, and that makes a real difference. Reliable and high-quality local ser vices like this deser ve recognition, and we are grateful to the magazine for bringing them to our attention. We would not hesitate to recommend JS Jets to other readers who are looking for a trustwor thy and effective cleaning ser vice.
Kind regards, Nicola Editors Note: we love hearing what a great job our adver tisers are doing! Thanks for sharing!

Dear Editor,
My parents John and Eileen Gibbs are both lifetime residents of Stotfold. They recently visited me - their daughter, in New Zealand where I have lived since 2004. It was their 14th visit around the world to see me! Here is a photo of them holding a well-loved copy of the Stotfold News at the beautiful Cooks Beach, in the Coromandel area
I always read your magazine online in Australia as does my Dad's sister Sue, who lives in Nebraska USA We are a little family spread far and wide!

Dear Editor
I'd like to thank Andy of A JB Fencing who did an excellent job repairing our damaged fence under difficult circumstances His time keeping and work quality were both spot on at an affordable price He mentioned that he had been a Fencer for 40 years so he obviously knows what he's doing and it shows! I would thoroughly recommend him
Ted Ward Editors Note: Great to hear you had a great ser vice from one of our adver tisers! Thanks for sharing!
Dear Editor,
As a lot of people will know by now I had my handbag stolen at the Coop car park last Saturday.I’d like to convey my thanks to ever yone who helped me in the aftermath but special thanks must go to Johnny Garside for his prompt response to our request to come and change our front and back door locks as my keys were in the handbag. He refused payment which I think goes above and beyond his duty to his customers. We can’t thank you enough Jonny. Wendy Ford Editors note: What a local hero!

Dear Editor,
Through the Stotfold News Magazine, I would like to reach out to any readers who find themselves in a similar situation to myself some time ago. I am happy to share the benefit of my experience with anyone needing suppor t during what can be, a ver y complex situation to navigate. If you would please include this letter in your next issue I would be grateful:
Have you been affected by difficulties seeing your children after a breakup?
I know how distressing and isolating this situation can be, and I offer both moral suppor t and practical guidance to parents who are going through it. Sometimes, having someone to talk to who understands the process can make a real difference.
I feel strongly that, wherever it is safe and appropriate, children should have a meaningful relationship with both parents
I have previously written on this issue and have suppor ted a number of parents over the past few years I also have personal experience of navigating lengthy cour t proceedings, successfully overcoming malicious allegations in the process in order to share custody of my children - all of which has given me valuable insight into the system
If this is something you find yourself facing and would like suppor t, please feel free to get in touch with the Stotfold News Magazine who will share my contact details with you
It is impor tant that these issues are discussed and experiences shared as it might just help answer questions and provide a valuable insight in to the road that is ahead If you feel I can help you in any way - even just as a listening ear, please do get in touch I look for ward to speaking to you
Name withheld.





LYNNIE
Happy special bir thday
We love you!!!
From Em, Nath and William X xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Happy Bir thday from all of your family and friends both locally and fur ther afield, and Dozer……….
Windows, frames, sills, conser vator ys, fascia & soffits.

LOCAL & RELIABLE * FREE quotations
ustgiving com/gardenhousehospice ncements: We are happy to accept family announcements by post, telephone, r through our facebook page If you would like to make a donation in return for nouncement then please visit the website above Please mention that the n has been made on behalf of the Stotfold & Arlesey News Magazine
ot surprise someone with an announcement in the Stotfold News Magazine? we need is your chosen wording and a photograph we’ll do the rest! Email:stotfold.news@yahoo.co.uk
Happy bir thday for the 16th May, Dr Tom!
With love from your friends & family x

Happy 40th Bir thday 29th May
Enjoy your celebrations with lots of love from all your family and friends xx

Happy Bir thday from all of your family and friends, both locally d f th fi ld! Call: 07949 853411

Ann Hurst
09/08/1935 – 14/03/2026
Ann died peacefully at home on Saturday 14th March with family present The funeral took place on 31st Mar 2026 at Stotfold Cemeter y



She taught at St Mar y’s school and en ran Summer field Nurser y School Ann had a curious mind and a loving hear t and she always lived life to the full
ALFIE PENNY.
Happy bir thday to the best dad in the world
We love you! X x






As warmer weather approaches, we are loving life outdoors! Children are enjoying free play in our gardens, counting birds and bugs, and looking at life cycles of animals We have had great fun looking at colours and how to change them by blending, separating, and mixing. We have also been exercising! Lots of running, jumping, climbing, crawling which is good practice for our spor ts day in June at Poppies!
Our value ‘courage’ has inspired our young athletes to tr y new activities and persevere to gain new skills!
Our Literacy team have been equally busy, suppor ting the development of language with a strong focus on our Book Boxes, which include favourites such as What the Ladybird Heard and Rosies Walk
Our breakfast and after school children have also been making their own snacks, playing with new spor ts equipment, and fun with paints and crafts!
Get your instant conveyancing quote from our website today.
Our Maths Team have provided lovely ideas for children to learn shape and number, including gathering natural items to match number value collating ‘loose par ts’ play into quantities, ‘Walk and Count’ nature trails, children making their own snack while looking at the shapes of the fruit and lots more inspiring ways to learn the concept of number and shape through play!
We are here to provide you with expert advice for the purchase or sale of:
• your dream home
• an investment property • a buy-to-let purchase • auction property
We operate to the highest standards of practice and integrity required by the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS)
Our track record in leasehold enfranchisement is also acknowledged by ALEP (Association of Leasehold Enfranchisement Practitioners)
Contact us: t: 01462 458711 e: homes@hrjforemanlaws co uk
Or visit us at: 25 Bancroft, Hitchin, SG5 1JW to make an appointment
Poppies and Poppyfields both offer breakfast club, nurser y sessions, afterschool club, and full day care, from Monday to Friday during the term and additionally offer holiday club Poppies age range is 2 years old to Reception, while Poppyfields is 2 years old to Year 2 For Poppies, St Mar y’s Academy site, enquiries please contact billpoppies@gmail com, and for Poppyfields at Fair field Lower School, Dickens Boulevard site, please contact billpoppyfields@gmail com
Value of the Month: Courage
Quote of the month: ‘Life is like a camera. Focus on what is impor tant, capture the good times, develop from the negatives and if they don’t turn out, take another shot.’
By D Spring


We would like to congratulate the winners of our top three prizes in the Easter Raffle, Louis, Jo and Gemma and thank all our lovely parents who entered Thank you also to our sponsors for your generous donations to make this possible, Stotfold Junior Football Club, J Miles Building Ltd, Morrisons and Pendleton Gym, these were ver y much appreciated.
On Saturday 23rd May we are hosting an Open Morning from 10am to 12pnm for children who are looking to star t with us in September, this is a fantastic oppor tunity to view our pre - school and meet the staff before star ting their Pippin journey. In the meantime, we have a vir tual tour available on the homepage of our website for parents to view https://pippinpreschool.co.uk/
Our next Holiday club will be the Summer Half term break from Tuesday 26th May to Thursday 28th May inclusive Book at: members pippinpreschool co uk/login We now have two session times available 8-5pm at a cost of £35 and 9-3pm at a cost of £25 We will then follow with our Summer Holiday Club from Monday 20th July to Thursday 13th August inclusive
As mentioned previously you can now suppor t us from the comfor t of your own home while shopping online! We've par tnered with easyfundraising, allowing you to raise free donations with 8000+ retailers Are you ready to make a difference to our fundraising target for this year? Please sign up now, your ongoing suppor t is gratefully received www easyfundraising org uk/cause/pippin-pre - school/ We have raised over £340 to date, which is a fantastic amount, a BIG thank you to ever yone who has suppor ted us so far
We continue to collect bottle tops, old buttons, yoghur t pots, cardboard egg boxes and old children friendly

magazines for our gluing station, if you have any that you wish to recycle please donate them via our office Thank you for your interest in our Pre -School. We look for ward to sharing more of our news with you again next month.


Despite the two-week Easter break, April was a relatively energetic month for our oldest children with their ‘what we did’ assembly following their residential trip to Rock UK Frontier Centre and bikeability training These are such useful, fun and rewarding experiences for them
The St Mar y’s School Association will be busy in May with the ever-popular


Sponsored Bounce event planned for Tuesday 12th May We are ver y grateful to all the volunteers, our families and our community for donating their time and money to help enrich the children’s lives in school
Our exciting annual school trips also take par t in this month On Thursday 14th our Foundation and Key Stage One children will visit Woburn Safari Park and our Year 3 and 4 children will spend the day at Whipsnade Zoo! A wonder ful day out they can all really look for ward to
Clubs have been ver y popular over the last two terms with a range of school run and external activities on offer. We will have Tennis, Drama, Mini

Athletics, Multi-Spor ts, Football, Gymnastics and Spanish Clubs back in the Summer Term along with a school run Athletics Club
All years will also take par t in a fun skipping workshop on Monday 18th May
To round off the month before we break up for the May Half Term holiday, annual class photos will be taken and we will be organising Creative Ar ts week The children really enjoy this event each year under taking a range of activities including ar ts and crafts, dancing, spor ting activities and cooking, to name but a few! We look for ward to updating you again next month!





Welcome to this month’s Roecroft Family news!
This term has already been filled with exciting oppor tunities across the school This month it is a pleasure to share just a small glimpse of what our pupils have been enjoying in our Key Stage 2 classrooms
‘This term, Year 3 have thrown themselves into a wonder ful mix of learning In Histor y, the children have been exploring the world of the Vikings and Anglo Saxons They were fascinated by Viking warriors and the impressive longboats they used for travel We enjoyed sharing a range of Viking tales, and the children had great fun writing their own versions of Thor ’s Hammer
As par t of our PSHE and DT work, we have been thinking about what it means to stay fit and healthy The children investigated how exercise affects the body and discussed how to make sensible food choices. One of the highlights was designing and creating our own pizzas with healthy toppings in DT.
A real treat came at the end of the Spring term when we visited the STEM Discover y Centre in Stevenage. The trip allowed the children to explore Science and Technology in a practical way and they spent time investigating interactive exhibits on Space, Energy, Materials, Forces and Magnetism We were also given viewing access to the Mars Yards test area
afternoon.’
‘In Year 4, we have had an exciting star t to the Summer term and the children's last term at Roecroft. In Histor y, we are now exploring the Ancient Egyptian society and beliefs and are looking for ward to our immersive topic day where we will dress for the occasion and even get to reenact a Pharoah's burial!
In English, the children have star ted reading ‘Marcy and the Riddle of the Sphinx’
At the end of April, we have our three day residential trip to PGL! It is a brilliant experience taking par t in activities such as zip-lining, archer y climbing and enjoying a campfire.
The children continue to have lots to look for ward to in the coming months;
We have our annual Dance Morning and a Bikeability training course, helping get the children ready for their journeys to their middle schools in the new academic year ’
Wishing you all a happy and restful star t to the summer season, and we look for ward to sharing more of our adventures with you next month.
With my warmest wishes, Mrs Cross


Established


It has been an extraordinar y past month for Pix Brook Academy, defined by a vibrant celebration of community events and a series of spectacular "firsts" for our school As the spring term blossomed, our corridors and classrooms came alive with an energy that truly showcased the talent, diversity, and collaborative spirit of our pupils, staff, and families
The excitement began with our highly anticipated second whole - school production, ‘Do We Ever See Grace?’, which took to the stage for two incredible, sell-out nights The per formances were a testament to the dedication and hard work of ever yone involved, shining a spotlight on the huge breadth of talent that exists across all our year groups The production brought our community together to celebrate the creative ar ts in true PBA style

We proudly hosted our first-ever Culture & Belonging Day on the last day of term, a meaningful event dedicated to celebrating the diverse heritage and identities that make up our school community It was an immersive and action-packed day of discover y Pupils were treated to an inspiring Ghanaian food demonstration by the wonder ful Patti Sloley, alongside high-energy introductions to both the NFL and Gaelic Football The creative ar ts were in full swing with a dynamic hip-hop workshop, an engaging dance session delivered by Hot House Dance, and a fascinating exploration of global print traditions led by our fantastic ar t team
The atmosphere throughout Culture & Belonging Day was truly something to behold Pix Brook Academy was transformed, filled with an array of national flags, bright colours, and beautiful traditional dress Most impor tantly, the profound level of respect and genuine curiosity shown by our pupils per fectly embodied our core school values, making it an incredibly proud day for ever yone involved
The enjoyment and sense of togetherness continued right through to the end of the term with our inaugural KS2 Family Easter Hunt. Taking place out on the school field, this event placed a strong emphasis on getting active outdoors and providing a wonder ful oppor tunity for families to connect. Amidst the fresh air and friendly competition, there was plenty of time to enjoy a few sweet treats. We were thrilled to send our younger pupils home with a chocolate egg and our ver y best wishes for the holidays.
The adventure didn't stop at the school gates, as the half- term break saw us embark on our first-ever PBA Spor ts Tour to the vibrant city of Barcelona Blessed with beautiful weather, the trip provided exceptional spor ting oppor tunities for our pupils to challenge themselves and develop their skills on an international stage Throughout the tour, the students' behaviour was nothing shor t of exemplar y, proving themselves to be fantastic ambassadors for the academy Their return from the tour rounds off a landmark few weeks of community, culture, and connection

Meetings are normally held on the 2nd Wednesday of the Month, St Mar y’s Church Hall, Church Roa 10 15am Wednesday 13th May 2026
OUTING to Place for Plants via Nottcuts Garden Centre Coach leaves Hitchin Road at 9 30am
Peter 07758 649721 stotfoldgc@gmail comgmail.com




Summer term is one of our busiest terms with the final push towards year 6 SATS, GCSE’s and A Levels
Inter ventions and suppor t are running ever y night after school, across multiple subjects and year groups as the staff suppor t learners in the last few weeks before the examination series begins We wish them ever y success and look for ward to celebrating their achievements with them. We are delighted to share that applications for enrolment at Etonbur y Sixth Form for September 2026 are still open on our website. If you have any questions, please do contact cdowden@bestacademies.org.uk.
The children joining us in year 5 this September have now received confirmation of their place here at Etonbur y Academy and we are looking for ward to welcoming them to our school and community. If you are still considering your child’s school please do get in contact with us If you are looking for a year 9 place for your child in September 2025 we do still have limited places available, please call the School Office to book a tour We are always happy to show prospective parents, carers, and pupils around our academy We also welcome in year admission enquiries for all school years Please call our main reception for fur ther details and to speak to our admissions team
Our year 10 pupils enjoy their work experience placements this month During this week, pupils are encouraged to explore their interests by working in different industries, the experience not only allows them to obser ve and par ticipate in the daily operations of a workplace but also helps in developing essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management
Year 6 pupils immersed themselves in the magical world of Harr y Potter as they ventured to the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London Enthralled by the enchanting sets and intricate costumes - The experience brought their reading to life.

Year 11 and year 13 leavers' assemblies are poignant milestones in the educational journey, marking the transition from one chapter of life to the next These assemblies are often filled with a mix of emotions excitement for the future, nostalgia for the past, and pride in accomplishments Year 11 are about to star t the next stage of their post 16 education and Year 13 leavers prepare to spread their wings into the wider world, be it through university, apprenticeships, or other pursuits
If you would like to book a school tour, please get in touch with us at 01462 730391 or via email at etaoffice@bestacademies org uk We believe we offer a small, compassionate, and exceptional educational community, and we invite you to come and see for yourself what makes Etonbur y special Please continue to share in our values, Ever yone is respectful, Together we care and Always aim higher.
Mrs J Young – Principal Etonbur y Academy www.etonbur y.org.uk


Annual Town Meeting - Wednesday 29 April 2026, 7pm Memorial Hall, Hallwor th Drive
Residents are warmly invited to attend the Annual Town Meeting on Wednesday 29 April at 7pm at the Memorial Hall. This is your oppor tunity to hear about the work of Stotfold Town Council over the past year and learn more about what is planned for the future.
The evening will also feature a talk from Luke Newman, founder and director of “For Men to Talk”, a charity that encourages men to speak openly about their mental health. During the meeting we will also launch Stotfold’s own Men’s Shed, which will be based at Hitchin Road Recreation
Ground Men’s Sheds are friendly spaces where people can meet, share skills and enjoy practical activities together Ever yone is welcome and we hope to see many residents there
A new ePetition has been approved and is now live It calls for the resur facing of Stotfold High Street and repairs to potholes on Hitchin Road Both roads are heavily used through the town. The current condition of the sur face has raised concerns about safety for drivers and cyclists High Street resur facing has appeared on the schedule of works for several years but has not yet been completed The road sur face is now deteriorating in places Temporar y repairs have often failed within weeks.
Hitchin Road has also been widely repor ted by residents through FixMyStreet due to potholes and sur face damage
The petition asks Central Bedfordshire Highways to prioritise resur facing High Street and repairing Hitchin Road
The ePetition is open from 31 March to 12 May 2026
Use the QR code to the right to add your name to the ePetition: We need 100 signatures for CBC to review the ePetition.
Meetings;
Wednesday

Duck Race Saturday 2 May

Get ready for one of Stotfold’s most popular community events. Our annual Duck Race takes place on Saturday 2 May at Pix Brook Play Area.

Ducks will be on sale from 2pm and the race begins at 3.15pm. Make sure you arrive in good time to choose your duck and take par t!
Biodiversity Craft - Friday 29 May
Join us at the Greenacre Centre for our ever popular Biodiversity Craft session This is a relaxed and creative activity suitable for all ages. No booking is required. Simply drop in and create your own nature inspired craft to take home.
STOTFEST - Saturday 27 June
Stotfest returns this summer and promises another fantastic day for the whole community
With live music, food vendors, stalls and plenty of activities, it is a great oppor tunity for residents to come together Keep an eye on our social media for the latest updates as the event approaches
Summer Holidays – Greenacre Bay
This summer we are bringing the beach to Stotfold. Greenacre Bay will open during the summer holidays at the park next to the Greenacre Centre. Families will be able to enjoy a beach themed play space right here in the town. The activity will be free to use, so bring along your bucket and spade and enjoy some seaside fun closer to home. Additional summer activities will also take place at this location, so watch our website and social media for fur ther announcements
Due to popular demand the Augmented Reality Trail will return this summer This year ’s theme will be the ocean, linking with the activities taking place at Greenacre Bay
The trail is free and will run throughout the summer holidays, giving families plenty of time to take par t
All meetings are open to the public and are held at the Greenacre Centre, unless other wise stated and normally star t at 7pm Meetings may be cancelled due to lack of business
Full details including agendas are available on our website
For our next update we hear from Ellie, the Project Director for the Need Project.
Welcome to our latest update.
March was another busy month during which we were able to provide 702 food parcels and 471 top up bags to households across our local community. The recipients represented a wide range of household types, including single individuals, adult-only households, and family homes.
During school holidays, we would typically expect to see a reduction in referrals for food parcels; however, this has not been the case this year, with demand remaining consistently high for the first week of the half term Unfor tunately, we are not seeing a decline in food pover ty; in fact, on average demand appears to be increasing The cost of living continues to rise, a challenge that many can relate to, and this is reflected in the ongoing demand for suppor t Despite this, we have been for tunate to receive a significant number of donations throughout the month We were also over whelmed by the generosity shown through donations of Easter eggs We received so many that we lost count We extend our sincere thanks to ever yone who contributed




It continues to be a real privilege to connect with so many local organisations and individuals who suppor t the work we do. Through these par tnerships and collective effor ts, we are able to make a meaningful difference within our community.
We continue to seek guidance and provision as we move towards Phase 2 of the building works, aiming to develop the upstairs area of the Methodist Church into a dedicated community space
We give thanks to God for his continued grace and provision for the project
MARCH IN FIGURES: We delivered 702 food parcels and 471 top up bags. This month with your help. We have managed to make a difference to 1708 adults, 267 pensioners and 1479 children This includes our best before food that we give away Please remember, our best before shop is open to ever yone.




Stotfold Bowls Club is hosting an Open Day on Sunday 24th May between 11am and 4pm. There will be equipment for you to use, friendly instruction available and existing members present to introduce you to our Club. In addition to tr ying the game, there will also be cake and plant stalls for you to indulge your sweet tooth and green fingers Come along and give it a go this could be the star t of a beautiful relationship!!! You’ll find us in Brook Street, Stotfold

Now that the weather is (hopefully) improving, Stotfold Runners are introducing their summer schedule, looking to focus on quality runs rather than quantity The group will now meet ever y Monday (5K ) - at Stotfold Football Club car park meet just before 7pm and Wednesday (5K ) at 6.30pm (the same venue.) To find out more, look them up on their facebook page
The May 2026 WELLBEING WALKS for the Arlesey and Stotfold Group are as follows:.
May 7th, 14th, 21st ~ Arlesey Station


These Karate -ka star ted their Karate journey with Sensie Gabriel Tan at just six years old The life skills they have learned along the way are irreplaceable! They were being put through their paces at their recent grading, showing incredible tenacity, resilience and determination
Massive congratulations to our new JKSK Black Belt 1st DanAlex Lamb, Angelina Costas, Ben Mackenzie, Harr y Lawrence, Livleen Parhar, Sebastian Evans, Sebastian Westcott and Sian Sepulchre.

May 28th ~ Etonbur y Wood ( meet at entrance to wood by school) For any enquiries please contact Beth and Peter Over field (01462 815672)
The 1st Sat of the month 5k is the 2nd May on Letchwor th Common at 9am and is free to enter.
Entries are now open for the popular Greenway Challenge on the 10th May. This is a 13ml loop around Letchwor th Greenway and open to runners of all abilities.

Entr y details are on our website. We continue our training sessions on Tues and Thurs with qualified coaches and meet in Letchwor th at 7pm We welcome runners of all abilities so come along for a taster session. All our details are on nhrr org uk or contact Ian 07506429928






Another mixed month in March for the First team with 2 wins 1 draw and 2 losses in the league Results on 3 April however meant that our step 4 status has been maintained for next season The Reser ves also had a mixed month winning two and losing three of their league matches The Women lost both of their league matches but triumphed in the Beds Junior Cup Final winning 2-1 against Woburn and Wavendon


The final month of the season is upon us, and we look for ward to your suppor t in cheering on all of our teams for a good end to the season As we look to next season, we would welcome any help anyone can offer to give our great club the best chance of growing in the future PLEASE SUPPORT THE CLUB BY TAKING UP OUR SPONSORSHIP AND ADVERTISING PROMOTIONS. DETAILS ARE ON THE CLUB WEBSITE. COME ON YOU EAGLES.
UP THE FOLD.
STOTFOLD FOOTBALL CLUB GENER AL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ Friday 22nd May in the clubhouse, star t 7 30pm Teams of 4-6 £5 PER PERSON R AFFLE Please reply to absaunders@ntlworld.com


JSJ Stadium New Roker Park Arlesey Road Stotfold, Bedfordshire, SG5 4HE 01462 539297 www.stotfoldfc.co.uk







Stotfold Junior Football Club offer a variety of oppor tunities for local businesses to get involved with their many teams. A popular way of doing this is by sponsoring match day and training kits for all age ranges.
The U18 Ambers have been for tunate this season to have two great kit sponsors, FB Chain https://www.fbchain.com/ and The Malay Cour tyard https://www malaycour tyard co uk/ Both local businesses have enabled the team to look incredibly professional throughout what has been, a successful 2025/26 season
Adver tising on team match kits gives local businesses the oppor tunity to not only get their company logo seen on the players kits as they travel the county, it also provides recognition for suppor ting our local football club and also our local community
This season the U18 Ambers have played in the Semi-final of the County Cup and also the League cup final, narrowly losing both on penalties.
They would like to express their sincere thanks to their sponsors this season for providing them with their ver y generous kit donations.
If you own a local business and would like to find out more about how you can get involved with kit sponsorship, please contact the club via their social media or by emailing them at enquiries@stotfoldjunior fc co uk for more information
All of the Stotfold Junior teams are now approaching the end of the season, culminating in two weekends full of presentations, where all 73 teams will be recognised for their achievements over the last few months.




FAIRFIELD COMMUNITY CHURCH

Community Hall, SG5 4JJ
May Ser vices:
Sunday 3rd Morning Ser vice 10 30am
Sunday 10th No Morning Ser vice
Sunday 17th Morning Ser vice 10:30am
Sunday 24th No Morning Ser vice
Sunday 31st Morning Ser vice 10 30am
Contact 07351 514457
Email:info@fair fieldcc org uk
HOPE STRICT BAPTIST CHAPEL
Mill Lane, Stotfold SG5 4NU
May Ser vices:
Saturday 2nd
Young People’s Meeting 7pm
Sundays 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st
Sunday School 9 15am
Morning Worship 10 30am
Afternoon Worship 2 15pm
Wednesday 6th, 20th
Prayer Meeting 7 15pm
Wednesday 13th, 27th
Evening Worship 7 15pm
Sunday 10th
Bible Class 7pm
Minister: Mr G E Hadley 01462 686803
www.hopechapelstotfold.org
See chapel Notice Board for details
St Mar y’s Church
The Big Brekkie
The Roecroft Centre Sat 9th May

8.30am – 11am
Full English/Continental Breakfast
Donations to Christian Aid
It would be helpful to have an idea of numbers, so please sign the signing up sheet in church or contact Sara 07895 00453 or email sara.clark3@live.com. Or please feel free to just turn up on the day, as there will be plent y of food to go around.
ST MARY’S CHURCH
61 Church Road, Stotfold SG5 4NE
May Ser vices:
Monday-Saturday ever y week: 9am Morning Prayer
Sunday 3rd
8 00am Said Communion
10 00am Parish Communion
4 00pm Tea Time Praise for young families
Wednesday 6th
9.45am Parish Communion
7.00-7.30pm Silent Meditation Sunday 10th
10.00am Parish Communion with Sunday School
11.30am, APM & APCM meetings
6.00pm Evensong
Wednesday 13th
9.45am Parish Communion
2.00pm Hymns for Fun
7 00-7 30pm Silent Meditation
Sunday 17th
9am Said Communion
10am Parish Praise Ser vice
5 30pm Youth Gathering
Wednesday 20th
9 45am Parish Communion
7 00-7 30pm Silent Meditation
Sunday 24th
9 00am, Morning Prayer
10 00am Parish Communion (with Sunday School)
2 30pm and 3 30pm Christenings
Wednesday 27th
9 45am Ser vice of the Word
7 00-7 30pm Silent Meditation Sunday 31st
10am Parish Communion
Revd. Bill Britt on 01462 730218 www.stotfoldchurch.org.uk
May Ser vices
Sunday 10th
9.00am, Parish Communion
Sunday 24th
9.00am Parish Communion
Revd. Bill Britt on 01462 730218 www.radwellchurch.org.uk
STOTFOLD METHODISTS
5 Hitchin Road, Stotfold. SG5 4HP
May Ser vices:
Sunday 3rd 10am Barbara Cook
Sunday 10th 10am Rev Emmanuel Onabanjo Holy Communion
Sunday 24th10am Helen Dearn
Sunday 31st 10am Rev Jakub Donkoh
Minister Rev Emmanuel Onabanjo 07464 881751
STOTFOLD SALVATION ARMY
10 Church Road, Stotfold SG5 4LX
May Ser vices:
Prayer Meeting
Ever y Sunday 10:00am Family Friendly Worship 10 30am
Ever y Sunday 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st May
Tuesday Home League Meetings 2-3pm Midweek worship for ladies including refreshments 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th May
Captains Adrian & Gemma Allen, 01462 731072
KINGS BAPTIST CHURCH
The Green, Stotfold. SG5 4AN
May Ser vices:
3rd All age Easter Sunday Ser vice
10th Sunday ser vice (with Communion)
17th Sunday ser vice
24th Sunday ser vice (with Communion)
31st Sunday ser vice
The Sunday ser vice is streamed using Zoom software on your smar tphone or computer to join in The meeting ID is 826 978 3610 and the passcode is 730521
For more details please contact us on Tel: 01462 730521
www.kingsbaptistchurch.co.uk


May is a month of quiet growth As flowers bloom and days lengthen, we are reminded that much of life unfolds gently and over time Our faith is often like that God is at work within us, even when we don’t immediately see it
Some seasons feel full; others feel slow. Yet in all of them, God is present As we continue in the light of Easter and look ahead to Pentecost, we are reminded that we do not grow alone
The Holy Spirit was given to bring courage, guidance, and new life and that same Spirit is still at work in us today. In small, ever yday ways, the Spirit shapes us: in acts of kindness, moments of patience, and quiet encouragement to one another. This month, perhaps we can pause and reflect: Where is God inviting me to grow? And where might the Spirit be gently leading me?
May we trust that God is at work within us, helping us to flourish. We also look for ward to oppor tunities to gather and connect as a community Unfor tunately, our April Cream Teas event had to be postponed due to unforeseen issues. We’re pleased to say it has now been rescheduled for Sunday 14th June, 2–5pm, when we hope to enjoy warmer weather together. This will be a fundraising event, and we warmly invite all to come along Details on booking a table, along with a new poster, will be available in May With ever y blessing, Revd Jenna Dearden
SALVATION ARMY
With warmer weather returning, there are plenty of ways to connect at Stotfold Salvation Army! Tuesdays (2:15–3:45pm), Music 4 Memor y, ( Tibbs Dementia) brings the power of music to those with dementia and their Carers, Wednesdays ( Term time): Little Stars Baby & Toddler Group: Morning 9 30am-11am, Afternoon 1 00pm – 2 30pm (no session on 27th May) May 7th, Hobby Hub (10:30–12:30) offers a comfor table space to craft and chat, with refreshments May 13th (7 15pm) Stotfold Book Club The book is Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout All welcome to join the discussion Drop in for Toast of the Town on May 14th (10:30–12:00pm) for hot drinks, toast, and friendly faces May 18th (7pm), we meet for our Fellowship gathering May 28th (10:30–12:30) - Connect: ‘Youth Club’ for Grown-Ups
Looking for a Bible discussion group? Lyfe Groups meet throughout the week contact us to find one that suits you
Children aged 5 – 12 are welcome to join King’s Kids Youth aged 13 and above are invited to join our youth group, typically held on the 2nd and 4th Sundays each month We celebrate Communion on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month We have an ‘open table’ and invite all who acknowledge Jesus as Lord and Saviour to share Communion with us We also encourage children to par ticipate We gather in the church building on Wednesday mornings at 10:00am and on Sunday evenings at 6pm to pray - Join us as par t of our weekly time of prayer as a collective fellowship Saturday 2rd May Family Film Afternoon 3pm watch a FREE family friendly film with refreshments including teas, coffee, juices as well as popcorn, biscuits – all for free The only cost is for your time to come along for some fun enter tainment and enjoyment with the family Monday 11th May Works of Hear t Join us for Works of Hear t, our informal and fun ar ts and crafts which star ts at 8pm. Ever y Wednesday Home from Home In par tnership with the Need Project, Please feel free to drop in at any time from 1pm to 3pm for tea, coffee, cake, and biscuits. Bring your knitting, or sit and chat, play games, do a jigsaw, or maybe take par t in a fun quiz! All ages welcome. Ever y Monday Tots & Toddlers usually meet ever y Monday during term times from 09:15 to 10:45. Check our website ww.kingsbaptistchurch.co.uk
Silent Meditation ever y Wednesday 7 00pm-7 30pm Silent Meditation in the Christian tradition is known as Contemplative Prayer We sit in silence and focus our concentration on the present moment. Little Angels Baby & Toddler Group Thursdays at 10.15am in the Church Hall during term time. Community Coffee Morning 10.30am-12 Wednesday 6 May. Fresh baked cakes and savouries. Plant Sale & Coffee Morning 10.00am-12 Saturday 16 May. Women’s Fellowship Group 2.30pm on Wednesday 20th May in the Church Hall. Christian Aid Big Breakfast at the Roecroft Centre from 9.00am on Saturday 9 May. Do come to this Churches Together in Stotfold event to raise money for poor communities around the world. Friendship Lunch will be held at noon on Wednesday 27 May at The Stag. To book contact carolyn bleach@sky com Men’s Big Breakfast 9 30am Saturday 30 May The Stag Whist Club Do think about joining our friendly Whist Club, which meets in the Church Hall on alternate Tuesdays at 2 00pm Contact Elaine Drur y 07925 192007 Thinking about getting married? contact Revd Bill on 01462 730218 Christenings held on the 4th Sunday of each month Please contact Sara Clark on 07895 003453 Funerals For information speak to your funeral director or telephone Revd Bill Britt on 01462 730218 www.stotfoldchurch.org.uk,

This month we welcome Mike Beedle as our guest Quizmaster for May.

Could you be our Quizmaster for June? get in touch with us today!


Welcome to our BR AND NEW feature, Readers Quiz. The chance for you, as our readers to be our Quizmaster for the month! Thank you to ever yone that got in touch to put themselves for ward to take par t!
This month we welcome Mike Beedle as our General Knowledge quizmaster! Mike’s chosen topic this month is Geography. Good Luck! - Answers P19

1 What type of leaf is on the Canadian Flag?
2. In which County is Stonehenge located?
3 What is the capital city of Morocco?
4. Which US State is the Grand Canyon located in?
5 What is the largest island in the Mediterranean?
6. Mount Vesuvius casts a shadow over which modern Italian city?
7. “Gates of Heavenly Peace” is the Chinese translation of what famous square in Beijing?
8. Which of the Canar y islands is the largest?
9. In which ocean is the Bermuda Triangle located?
10. Captain Cook gave what name to the Islands now known as Hawaii?




This month we re -visit the memories of Rev Rober t Draycott as he recalls growing up in Trinity Road.. We lived in the middle section, the first houses, numbers 1-27 and 2-28 had been built before the war, our section was built from 1947 The name recognised that Trinity College Cambridge had owned the land, as evidenced on a 19th centur y map of the village But as I will explain there was a threefold connection between numbers 33, 46, and 47
Our section was almost exclusively populated by young families –at a rough count with about 40 children and young people under the age of 16 by 1950. This meant that there was always someone to play with. Memories fade but there was, ‘Farmer, farmer, may I cross your green field?’ Hopscotch, ‘Kingy’ (using a small bundle of rags to tag the others one by one) and then the foot races, star ting and finishing at the lamppost outside number 39. On our side of the road lived the Gentles, Everetts, Files, Longhursts, Bilcocks, Dears, us, Wests, Dandos, Castles, and Calver ts. On the other side the Moores, Hibber ts, Streets, Browns, Menzies, Wilkies, Lincolns, Bristows, Kings, Teeces, Linnells These names ser ve the obvious purpose of readers saying –’that's my family’, but also makes the point about stability, families stayed put, and they were stable in the other sense of staying together
As some will already know the other ‘Trinity’ emerged later with Bob Street becoming a Salvation Army officer who amongst many other things ser ved as Divisional Commander in Australia, I was a missionar y in Brasil for nearly ten years, whilst Norman Teece spent over 20 years in Cambodia running his Christian ‘Ironworks’ project but that is another stor y Rev Rober t Draycott




AD Garden Rooms
A JB Fencing
A J Day Builders
Alfie’s Barbers
01438 313765
07837 791365
01767 314445
01462 658449
All Wrapped Up - Balloons and Florist 07886 569134
Andy Leonard Painter & Decorator 07889 903283
Arlesey Social Club
01462 731361
Ask Phil (Garden Rooms, Driveways, Windows) 01462 545729
Aquarius Garden Design 01462 731292
Barn Hair Studio
Bal & Co Motor Care
Bandits Pet Shop
01462 835611
01462 731500
07787 502906
Bews Electrical 01462 834488
Big Minibus Hire
BK Electrical / Brian Kelly
Broadband Communications
BSH Glazing ( Windows & Doors)
Bugs ‘n’ Things Pest Control
Builders - SJ Brock
Carpet Cleaning - ACCS Ltd
Carpet Cleaning - The Cleaning Hub
Carpets & Flooring - Paul Faulkner
Catsitter - Claire
Clean Kept Yard
Computer Repairs
The Cooker Buddy Oven Cleaning
Chris Webster, Stotfold
(Correspondent for The Comet )
Crown Sweeps
Darren Peters Proper ty Maintenance
Dennison’s - House & Garden Clearance
Drain Doctor
Electrician - Terr y C Seymour
Fair field Bowls Club
Fencing (A JB)
First Step Estate Agents
Foot Health Professional - Vicki Eagles
07817 766997
07817 545314
01462 732628
01462 730884
01462 735999
01462 231257
01462 629302
07990 297297
01462 731674
07984 344997
07376474239
0777 7113107
01462 810065
01462 834108
07838 916915
01462 733322
07522 354141
01462 730769
01462 236559
07811 738599
07837 791365
01462 659730
07812 399659
Foot Pro Podiatr y 07377 536685
FullFlow Pressure Washing 07306 085207
Gifford Dance Academy
07585 221513
Graham Smith Brickwork & Paving 07703 171857
Green Door Lettings Management
Greenacre Transfers Airpor ts & Chauffeur Ser vices
www greenacretransfers co uk
Guides - Stotfold Guide Association
Henlow Vets
HB Bakes

Mow & Weedit Garden Ser vices 07765 495200
New Kitchens 01462 812826
Nor th Her ts Road Runners 01462 639215
Orange Hen Travel 01707 903761
Oven Clean & Repair Ser vices 07878 444559
Painter/Decorator - Paul A Robinson 07761 751634
01462 232642
Paul Eley Tiling 07818 000508
Paul Williams Home Repairs & Maintenance 07881 289161
Piano Lessons - Christine Walker 01462 731357
Piano Lessons - Elmitt Piano Academy 07449 461465
Pilates - Zanna Newton 07719 862371
Pippin Pre -School 01462 834897
Plumbing - ALM Plumbing 07950 311963
Plumbing & Heating - C Plumb 01462 700862
Plumbing & Heating - GSP Heating & Plumbing 01462 615922
Plumbing - J D Heating & Plumbing Ser vices LTD 07474 444288
Plum-tek 01462 618058
Pooches Parlour 07852 520471
Poppies Nurser y 07833 927906
Poppyfields Nurser y 01462 830008
Ray The Carpenter 07885 020895
Roecroft Centre - Maureen Winters 07727 688877
Regency Flowers 01462 732616
Stotfold & Arlesey Royal British Legion 01462 734133
Satchells Estate Agents 01462 733730
Saunders Garage 01462 730222
Sheldon Electricals 01767 448188
Shel's Shabby Chic, Vintage painted furniture & workshops 01462 234228
Sigma Computer Ser vices 01462 742783
Slimming World 07515 557803
Solicitors - HR J Foreman Laws 01462 458711
St Mar y's Church Hall 07727 688877
Stotfold Ar t Group 07821 502367
Stotfold Bowls Club 07739 760719
Stotfold Conser vative Club 01462 730534
Stotfold Football Club 01462 539297
Stotfold Gardening Club 01462 834854
Stotfold Good Neighbour Group 07599 925587
Stotfold Junior Football Club 07706 951263
01462 510765
07555 707848
01462 235273
01462 416416
07878 209112
Hypnotherapy - Pathway Hypnotherapy Rooms 07497157531
James’s Carpentr y & Handyman Ser vice
Jar vis Footcare
JPT Utilities
01462 234292
07816 329363
01462 735450
Kumari Chiropractic 07479 945995
Liams Butchers
Locksmith Ser vices
Lower Wilbur y Farm
Maintenance Ser vices - SHMS
Method Financial Planning
Mice & Tidy
07584 979361
01462 290226
07988 771107
01462 887366
01462 516245
07835 983807
Stotfold Judo Club 07872 594499
Stotfold Twirlers 07732 505614
Stotfold Mill 01462 734541
Stotfold News Magazine 01462 731986
Stotfold Pharmacy 01462 730249
Stotfold Shor t Mat Bowls Club 01462 629575
Tailoring Ser vice 07575 417217
Terr y Decor Decorating Ser vices 07549 611333
The Rooms Hair and Beauty 01462 835538
The Rooms Holistic and Beauty Academy 07946 521266
Warrens Windows
Waste Removal (Josas Waste)
Wellco Heating Ser vices
01462 261401
07739 488472
07783 190780
Windows - Repairs & Installations (J Garside) 07951 473505
Window Cleaning - ACCS Ltd
Window Cleaning (Jacks)
Yoga - Freda Dodswor th
01462 629302
07950 510589
01767 627611














