Layout 7 - Biggleswade Rugby Club

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 5Biggleswade YoungPeoples Youth ClubCHILDREN and young peoplein Biggleswade have a newplace to go for recreation andpersonal development.The Biggleswade MondayYoung People’s Youth Clubwill give youngsters the chanceto take part in a variety ofgames, activities and sports.Biggleswade Youth Centreat the Holmemead MiddleSchool campus in Mead Endwill be the venue for the club,which will run from 6pm to8pm on Monday nights.The service will be run byproject manager Ken Lynch,youth leader Lorraine Bradburyand a group of other volunteers,who also hope to help and mentoryoungsters who attend.Lorraine said: “We will haveeverything from pool tables tofootball coaching and arts andcrafts.“As well as the recreationalside we will also be runningworkshops on subjects like bullyingand friendship, issueswhich are important to peopleof that age.”For further information contactLorraine on 01462 811943Biggleswade Sandy Lions Club’s VisionheLeN KeLLeR who lost her sight and hearing after an illness aged 19 months,learnt to speak and write as an adult. She addressed a Lions InternationalCon vention in 1926 and asked Lions to become 'Knights of the Blind'. Since thenwe have become very involved and it was Lions who introduced the white stickfor the blind.For many years a Lions EyeHealth Programme has beenrunning to encourage people tohave regular eye tests which canpick up signs of things such asglaucoma, cataracts and diabetes.Therefore the Lions of GreatBritain and Ireland are one of themany organisations supporting theRoyal National Institute for theBlind’s Vision 2020 with the aimnot only of promoting regular eyetests but also through a new initiative'seeing it my way' ensuringthat everyone with sight loss getsthe support they need. Did youknow that over 50% of sight lossin the UK is preventable? To findout more go to www.vision2020uk.org.uk/ukvisionstrategyDESERT WALKLion Jeanette Taylor hasreturned from Morocco after beingone of only seven of the group of23 to complete the 100km desertwalk raising £2500 so far for StRAJ BENGALCONTEMPORARY INDIAN RESTAURANTJohn’s Hospice at Moggerhanger.This involved walking ankledeep in sand over dunes or acrossflat salt plains in temperatures of38- 45 degrees C and needing todrink five litres of water a day tokeep going. Biggleswade SandyLions are proud of Jeanette andher remarkable achievement – andit is still not too late to sponsorher – call 01767 680943 or emailb_m_taylor@yahoo.comFor more information aboutBiggleswade Sandy Lions visitour website www.biggleswadesandylions.org.uk. Or call 0845833 9749 and speak to one of ourmembers.QUALITY QUANTITY EXCELLENT VALUE GREAT SERVICE61 Hitchin Street, Biggleswade SG18 8BEHAPPY CHRISTMAS FROM THEMANAGEMENT AND STAFFWe are open on Boxing Day & closed onChristmas Day – Open all other days as normalNOW 7 DAYS A WEEK4 COURSE GOURMET MEALSunday from £8.95pp all other days includingFRIDAY & SATURDAY £9.95ppChoose from our menu: Any Starter, and Main Dish,any Vegetable Side, any Rice or NaanExcluding Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s DaySubject to terms and conditionsFREE HOME DELIVERYwithin a 4 mile radius on orders over £14Open 7 days a weekOPENING TIMESSunday–Thursday 5.30pm–11pmFriday & Saturday 5.30pm–11.30pmTel: 01767 318555WISHINGALL OURCUSTOMERS A MERRYCHRISTMAS AND AHAPPY NEW YEARHarrisonsAccountancyCHARTERED ACCOUNTANTSSave money on your accountancy costs.Year round support for a fixed fee.

6 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.ukPhoenix strutting their stuffLOCAL all-female a cappellachorus, Phoenix, are gettingready to strut their stuff again intheir annual show. On SaturdayDecember 3rd at SandyCommunity Theatre the awardwinning chorus will sing anddance their way through a widerepertoire of songs old and new,from toe-tapping up tunes tomoving ballads, with someseasonal favourites thrown in.Demand for tickets was so highthat this year that they areputting on three performancesat 2pm, 5pm and 8pm.Phoenix will be joined this yearby Lawnside School choir whowill perform on the first twoshows. The choir of 60 childrenaged between 5 and 9 are reallylooking forward to this chance todebut their new programme ofsongs which are full of catchymelodies, some to make youlaugh and some to bring a lump toyour throat. Tissues are recommended!Talented female quartet,Footlights, will also appear on the2pm and 5pm shows (www.footlightsquartet.co.uk).Phoenix are very excited toannounce that the 8pm show willalso feature UK NationalChampion quartet, Finesse(www.finessequartet.co.uk – seepage 15.The annual show marks the endof a very busy year for Phoenix.They won a coveted silver medalat a national competition in May,beating 23 other women’s chorusesfrom the UK and Netherlands.In June they recorded a CD whichwill be available soon. In July theyperformed to a packed audience aspart of the Hitchin Festival, raisinga total of £500 for Garden HouseHospice and Hitchin CheshireHome in the process.In September they held an ACappella workshop day whereparticipants had the chance to try acappella singing and learn a songin a day. Phoenix are absolutelydelighted to welcome some ofthose women on stage with themfor the first time for this show!If you love to sing, you’re invitedto come along to any Tuesdayevening rehearsal at Potton LowerSchool. Phoenix are always lookingfor new members and wouldparticularly like to recruit womenwith lower voices for the Basssection. Whatever your experience,come and have a go!For more info 07900 895561www.phoenixladies.co.ukLLEARN TO DRIVEWITH LISAIN A FAB MINI ONE!LSPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW CUSTOMERSFIRST 3 HOURS £35.00 Thereafter £23ph.ALL LOCAL AREAS COVERED.FRIENDLY PROFSSIONAL DRIVING TUITIONFROM BEGINNERS TO PASS PLUS.IF YOUR A NERVOUS PERSON OR JUST LOST CONFIDENCEPLEASE CALL OR TEXT07816 250624 or email: lisa_oakley@btinternet.comYOUR LOCAL FAMILYBUSINESSA. J. DAYBUILDING MAINTENANCE• Plumbing• Tiling• Plastering• Painting &decorating• Carpentry• Alterations• Kitchens• Bathrooms• Insurance work• Free estimates• Free call out• Free adviceTel: 01767 314445 / 07802 530951TRADESMENOver 13,500 homes in Biggleswade, Sandy and Potton see theBulletin, that’s more homes than the… and the…Call Pat on 01234 843905

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10 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.ukLocal news and information for Sandy and surrounding areaSANDy Community websitewas founded back in August1999, as a focal point in the communityand to provide news andinformation about what’s goingon the local area. As well as linksto local resources and other sitesof interest to visitors accessingthe website, there are regularnotices posted about eventsbeing mounted by other communitygroups in the area.The website has a ‘potted history’of the town, which datesfrom the very early Roman-British era, right up to modernday. Whilst not intended to be acomprehensive history of thetown, the history section does atleast give a flavour of how Sandyand the local area has developedover time.The Local links page bringstogether access to other communitywebsites in the area andhopefully, these sites receive visitorsfrom these links. There arealso Local Services pages, whichgive details of schools, localauthorities and, through thesponsorship of some local businesses,information about these.The website has developed overthe last 12 years or so and for along time, did not accept anyform of sponsorship or paid foradvertising. however, since2008 and the economic declinefelt all over the world, there wasa need to keep the website onlineand updated through a smallamount of funding from thirdparties and some affiliate advertising.Today, this has movedinto some front page ‘spotadvertising’, which generatesenough income to keep the websitegoing in its current form.There is also a ‘Blog’ at:www.sandybedsblog.com wherelocal issues can be aired and discussed.It’s free to register andpost your comments on existingissues or even something youThe vicious circle of diabetesand gum diseasefeel should be raised throughyour own topic.The website is now maturebut new ideas and suggestionsfor improvement are alwayswelcome – it is after all a communitysite for the community.There is a small level of disappointmentin that even todayin this highly charged era ofonline communication, manylocal groups still rely on puttingposters up in shop windows andon noticeboards. That is not tosay these methods are redundantbut the newer channels ofcommunication with potential‘customers’ should be exploredin order to complement thephysical media. SandyCommunity website will bepleased to post notices of localevents being advertised onbehalf of not-for-profit groupsand organisations. All that isneeded is an email to the websitewith the What’s On details andGuM disease has no respect forage, sex or ethnicity. For themajority of us, the disease willnot advance beyond tender,swollen gums or bleeding duringbrushing provided it’s treatedimmediately. But for people whohave Type 2 diabetes, if it is notdetected in the earliest stages, itcan literally be life threatening.Diabetics are more susceptibleto infections. Periodontal (gum)disease is one of the most commoncomplications of diabetes andthose who don’t have theirdiabetes under control are especiallyat risk.Gum disease allows bacteria anopportunity to get into the bloodstreamand circulate throughoutyour body, which could lead toadditional health risks.Gum disease also reduces thebody’s ability to produce insulin,which makes it more difficult for aperson with diabetes to controltheir blood sugar levels. This is avicious circle because if it’s leftuntreated or uncontrolled, gumdisease and diabetes directly affectone another. Poor blood sugarlevels mean that the glucose insaliva increases; this feeds the bacteriain the mouth, which in turndevelops into gum disease!Tooth loss is also anotherproblem for diabetics who sufferfrom gum disease. Our teeth areheld in place in the jawbones byligaments which keep them stableand healthy. Gum disease cancause loss of bone and as a resultyour notice will be up within acouple of days. If you have acopy of a poster advertising yourevent, even better. either send itby email, or drop it it to theWebmaster’s letterbox andagain, it will be on the website ina couple of days. Please note thatin order to achieve the maximumimpact, event noticesshould be at least 3-4 weeks inadvance of the event takingplace. There is no charge for thisservice .The Community Website willbe here for a long while yet andas online media developmentsand improvements comethrough it will move with thesenew innovations in order tomaximise accessibility to localinformation for Sand and thelocal are.you can find us by ‘Googling’Sandy, or accessing us directlyat: www.sandy-bedfordshire.co.ukdeeper pockets develop around theteeth and gums where bacteria canbreed. Gum disease also attack theligaments which hold the teeth inplace so they may become looseand eventually fall out.Smoking also increases the riskof gum disease. Smokers withdiabetes aged 45 or older, are 20times more likely to get severegum disease and bone and toothloss than diabetics who don’tsmoke. So if you are diabetic andsmoke these additional risk factorsmay directly be shortening yourlifespan.But there is light at the end ofthis gloomy tunnel. Good dentalhygiene will help you keepdiabetes under control and bloodsugar levels steady. You shouldclean your teeth and floss regularlyand rinse your mouth with anantibacterial mouthwash afterbrushing, but a visit to your dentalhygienist will make sure that anygum disease is detected andtreated early.Make sure your dentalhygienist knows about yourdiabetes. That way they caninclude a regular oral healthassessment, to pick up early signsof infection, as part of your routinediabetes management.For more information aboutoral hygiene and dental care visitwww.ballardandtucker.co.uk or toarrange an appointment callBallard and Tucker on 0844 5769888.

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 11How ManyDays ofYour LifeHave You Lostto Headaches?aches?Whenyousuffer ferGiveourcentreawithfrequentcallrightnowonheadachesit’sa01234 340317realproblem,andwhileyou areitaffects fectseverythinkingofit,aspectofyourbeforelifeget’sinlife.Youmightthe wayandyounot feellikedoingforget.anything,eitherforfunorforYouwillhave awork.You mayvery thorough“noevenbelosingstonesunturned”moneyduetoanconsultationandinability to work.examinationthatwillhelpyoutoIfyou’rehavingaunderstandwhyheadachethenyouIfHeadachesRegularly lLeave You Feelingyouhavehavetodragyour “OutofOrder” ThenYou Could Be Missingheadachesandwhatthrobbing b headyouneed todotostopImportant Tests That Could Get You Backaround,youdon’tfeelhavingtheminthegoodatanytime.ItOn Your Feet Againfuture.canfeellikeacloudHowmanydaysinyourlifehas descendedoveryourhead. haveyoulosttoheadaches?Do Webelieveyou’veneverhadanYoumayfeel nauseous, dizzy youreally want to suffer ferlikeexamination likethis before,andslightlyconfused.Totopit thisfor another?anditincludestheoneveryalloff,f,thecauseoftheseimportant testthatmost healthheadachesprobably isn’t goingAsk yourself this questioncareprovidersneverbothertotogetbetteronitsown.Sothey“what aretheseeheadachesreally do.comeback, again and again.costing me?”These testswillletyouknowifYouwatchotherpeopleegettingWouldn’t itbeworthfindingthereisaproblemthatcanbeonwiththeirlivesandyou’reoutiftherecould beasolution fixednaturally.Ifwefind thatunableto wholeheartedly takefor gettingridofyour youhavea problemrequiringpart.Peoplewhodon’toftenheadaches?medical referralwewillinformhaveheadachesor may evenyou immediately.neverhavehadone,simplyIfyoudosuffer ferwithheadachesdon’tunderstandhow youfeel, thenIurgeyoutotakeusupon So,ifyou callusstraight awayaybut thisiswhatit’sreally like.ouroffer,to haveafull youwillgetallthisthoroughheadacheconsultation andtesting thatwouldnormally costYoucan certainlyeasethepainexaminationataspecial£195 for just£17.withdrugs,but don’tyouworry discountedrate ofjust£17,what they aredoing to you? reducedfrom£195before,itis CallNow on 01234 340317, , wewithdrawnwithout anynotice look forward to helping you.whatsoever.

12 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.ukBiggleswade Ivel Evening Townswomen GuildChAIRMAN Chris Davieswelcomed 34 members to theNovember meeting of theBiggleswade Ivel eveningTownswomen Guild on 14thNovember. The minutes wereread, approved and signed. TheOctober Speaker, eric Lund, hadproved very interesting. TheBancroft TG Fashion Show hadproved an enjoyable eveningalthough the models had causeda great deal of amusement. Theitems of clothing were ratherexpensive.Members had enjoyed theOctober Walk and had been verylucky as the rain kept off. Theladies had an excellent lunch at thePlough. Sheila Mills laid thewreath on behalf of the Guild at theRemembrance Day Parade. Theparade had been well attended. TheSecretary read an invitation to theFederation Carol Service on 10thDecember at 11am at WalsworthRoad Baptist Church. Bobby Ballwould be reading a lesson. Detailsof the National Carol Service, 5thDecember were given.The coach fare would be paidon the day and the coach would beleaving the Town Centre at 10am.There were spaces available for anywishing to go shopping at StAlbans. Federation was arranging alunch next year at Hitchin Priorymarquee to celebrate the Queen’sJubilee at a cost of £25.00.Chris would be attending thenext Federation meeting and wouldfind out more details. Severalmembers indicated that theywished to attend. Members wereHelp for parents and familiesALISTAIR Burt, MP for North east Bedfordshire, haswelcomed an £11 million investment in new online and telephoneservices which will help to support parents and families.The Government is providing funding to eleven voluntaryand community organisations to deliver a range of supportincluding relationship advice, advice on educational issues andservices tailored specifically for fathers.Mr Burt said: "every parent across the country can benefitfrom these services and I welcome the Government’s decisionto trust organisations with a proven track record in supportingfamilies to deliver them. Online and telephone support will givefamilies in Bedfordshire the help they need, when they need it,without interfering in family life."www.toyboxdaynurseries.co.uktold about a U3A Trip to visit theHouses of Parliament nextFebruary 14th. The coach wouldleave Biggleswade at 6.50am.Members were reminded that thenext meeting was the ChristmasParty and to bring a plate of foodand a wrapped gift for BiggleswadeHospital.Gill Hibbert was presented withher awards from the SummerSpecial held in July. Lots of itemshad been given by the members for‘Treat The Troops’ and these wouldbe taken to the next Federationmeeting. Two ladies who had readabout us knitting for the FistulaHospital, Addis Ababa, had givenus three lap blankets. A card ofappreciation had been sent to them.Angela Williamson had alsocompleted a blanket and this wasdisplayed to the new members. Theblankets would also go to theFederation Meeting.After a break for refreshmentsand a browse at the sales table theChairman introduced the entertainmentfor the evening, Mrs.SANDYToybox Day Nursery7 Medusa Way, Sandy SG19 1TH01767 683602BIGGLESWADEToybox Day Nursery, The Saxon Centre,Kingsfield Road, Biggleswade SG18 8AT01767 313139STOTFOLDToybox Day Nursery70 High Street, Stotfold, SG5 4LD01462 734306Lawrence and the Sandy Singers.Accompanied on the keyboard byMary, they preceded to entertainand amuse with Christmas songsgiven a modern slant, carols, poemsboth sad and funny and involvingthe audience with some very imaginativeactions to the Twelve Daysof Christmas. Liz Stirratt gave thevote of thanks for an unforgettablestart to the festive season. Mrs.Lawrence judged the competitionfor a Christmas decoration placingChris Davies 1st, Anne Jones 2ndand Angela Williamson 3rd. Theraffle was drawn and the delightedwinners were Jenny Talbot, JoChelley and Joyce Bilcock.Closing the meeting, the chairmanreminding members that thenext meeting would be on 12thDecember which would be theChristmas Party, reminding membersto bring food, a gift forBiggleswade Hospital. Thecompetition would be for ahomemade cracker.All visitors would be verywelcome.The Rising Stars AwardsThe RISING Star Awardsrecognise the achievements ofleading edge employers andindividuals.The awards are now in their18th year and their value is reflectedin the calibre of businesses andindividuals who win these accolades– these awards are the premiershowcase for the county's risingstars.Company of the Year award isthe premier award, and was presentedto the business that demonstrateexceptional businessachievement over a period of timeand which was recognised in itsown industry.Toybox was delighted to beshortlisted for the Company of theYear award and they enjoyed agala evening in November inBedford. The evening was presentedby Ray Stubbs former BBCSports and Comic Relief star, withafter dinner speaker RichardGaisford – the Chief NewsCorrespondent for ITV Daybreak.This was their first year attendingthese prestigious awards andToybox were so proud to havebeen shortlisted for the top awardof the evening. It is a reflection ofthe staff’s hard work and dedicationover the past testing years,that they won the HighlyCommended Award for Companyof the Year. Toybox came secondto Woodfines Solictiors LLP, along established local firm, whohave been winning different categoriesat this event, for a numberof years. Toybox hope to be backnext year, if nominated, flying theflag for the childcare sector inBedfordshire again!

14 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.ukChristmas atSaxon Pool & Leisure CentreGym & Swimming Pool Opening TimesSaturday 24th December 7.30am - 3.00pmSunday 25th December CLOSEDMonday 26th December CLOSEDTuesday 27th December 8.00am - 3.00pmWednesday 28th December 8.00am - 3.00pmThursday 29th December 8.00am - 3.00pmFriday 30th December 8.00am - 3.00pmSat urday 31st December 8.00am - 3.00pmSunday 1st January CLOSEDMonday 2nd January 10am - 6.30pmTuesday 3rd January Normal opening hoursWorkout Class TimetableFriday 23rd December:9.30am BodyAttack10.30am 50+Saturday 24th December:9.00am Fancy Dress BodyCombat10.00am Fancy Dress BodyPump11.00am Zumba Fancy Dress Party(Free mince Pies and Coffeeafter Zumba class)Tuesday 27th December:9.00am BodyAttack10.00am BodyBalance11.00am X-BikingWednesday 28th December:9.00am BodyPump10.00am BodyCombat11.00am PilatesThursday 29th December:9.00am Zumba10.00am AquaBlast10.00am 50+11.00am BodyAttackFriday 30th December:9.00am X-Biking10.00am BodyPump11.00am ZumbaSaturday 31st December:9.00am X-Biking10.00am BodyPumpMonday 2nd January:10.45am BodyCombat11.45am 50+lifestyles @ saxonSaxon Pool & Leisure CentreSaxon Drive, Biggleswade, Beds SG18 8SU0300 300 8076E. enquiries.saxon@stevenage-leisure.co.ukwww.lifestylesatcentralbedfordshire.co.uk24 hour Customer Information Line: 0300 012 0300

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 15Houston – no problem!NATIONAL champion quartetFinesse are still on cloud nineafter making history at an internationalcompetition in houston,Texas last month. The female acappella quartet from Beds andBucks was one of only 49 out of792 quartets worldwide toqualify for the semi -final of theSweet Adelines Internationalcontest this year … but theirsuccess didn’t stop there. Theywent on to earn their place in thebarbershop history books asthey beat 39 of their competitorsto win a coveted tenth place inthe world!Hundreds of excited supporterswatched into the small hours of themorning via a live web link asFinesse became the first UK quartetever to make it to the final ten atthe annual international contest.“We were all watching withbaited breath as the final ten quartetswere named, and Facebookwent absolutely wild whenFinesse’s name was called out!”recalled Caroline Donovan, supporterand member of local chorusPhoenix. “It is such a huge step forwardfor the whole UK region tohave one of our quartets up therewith the big names! It puts Britishbarbershop well and truly on themap!”Finesse are Helen Owen, fromCheddington, Beth Brimmi combe,from Pitstone, Tanya Jenkins, fromFlitwick and Nicky Salt, fromBiggleswade. Having achievedtenth place, the quartet automaticallyqualify for next year’s semifinalcontest, this time in Denver,Colorado, and they have alreadystarted fundraising to help them getthere. They also appeared on thePhoenix Chorus show in Sandy onDecember 3rd and they are alsohosting a Celebration Show at 7pmon Sunday December 11th atCheddington Village Hall wherethey will perform all their favouritesongs plus some festive additions.Joining them will be championmen’s quartet, Evolution, and theshow will include some eight-partsongs featuring both quartetswhich include husband and wifeHelen and Stuart Owen.“We don’t often get the chanceto sing together in our home villageso this will make it a very specialoccasion,” says Finesse tenor,Helen.Finesse have been busy makinga Christmas CD which will beavailable for sale at their show aswell as via their websitewww.finessequartet.co.uk. Theyalso plan to record another nonfestiveCD in January to be availablebefore May when they will beappearing as special guests at theSweet Adelines InternationalRegionial contest at theBirmingham Symphony Hall.“That will be a very emotionalevent for us because it is where itall started in May last year,”remembers Finesse bass, Nicky.“When we won that contest we hadno idea where it would lead us andwe will be taking the opportunityto thank our region for all theirmassive support while we were inHouston.”Tickets for the Cheddingtonshow are £8 for adults, £4 for children,and are available from Helenon 01296 661817 or helen@finessequartet.co.uk. Finesse arealso looking for opportunities to'sing for their supper' at events orfunctions in the coming months. Ifyou would like to book Finesse,sponsor them or support theirfundraising in any way please contactNicky on 07960 173604 oremail nicky@finessequartet.co.uk01480 260050www.pippasblinds.com

…shop locally this ChristmBigTina’s Cake shop offers a complete bespokeservice for celebration and novelty cakes fromdesign to delivery, for all occasions.Christmas is just around the corner, so its never too earlyto order your Christmas cakes, cupcakes anddecorations.We offer fruit or sponge, made to order, as well as fruitcake cupcakes – and remember, we make cakes forbirthdays, weddings, anniversaries, Hallowe’en...or just because.Please contact us on 01767 660839 ore-mail tina@tinascakeshop.co.ukOr come and see us on Biggleswade Market on Saturdays forcakes and bakes, cake orders and cake decorations.Follow us on Twitter (tinascakeshopuk) or find us on Facebook (Tinas cake shop)Photograph: Martin QuinceWhether you are looking for sensiblepriced Christmas gifts, or you wantto raise some £cash for Christmas…just visit us in the high street –opposite “The Codfather”.We buy ANYthing Gold, ANYthing Silver, pluscollectables: Old Coins, Medals, Banknotes,etc. FREE valuations. NO pressure to sell.Open Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 7pm52 High Street, Biggleswade, Beds. SG18 0LJTel: 01767 600300Why travwastingfuel, use ybusinesChris

as, support your independent traders ingleswadeChristmascards andgifts now instockTheGorgeousGift & Card CompanyOpen: Monday-Friday 9.30am-6pm, Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday closedAMPLE FREE PARKINGUnit 3, The Saxon Centre, Kingsfield Road, (opposite the swimming pool)Off London Road, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 8ATTel: 01767 600150 Join on facebookel miles,time andour localses thistmasDOG GROOMINGby qualified groomer (est 1998)● Grooming Brushes, Combs & Shampoos(free advice given)● Stockist of Burns foods and most otherbrands available with FREE local delivery● Treats, toys, collars, leads andidentification tags● Dorwest Herbs Stockist (come in forinformation on Dorwest’s natural remedyfor firework phobias).● Dog coats, jumpers and reflective wear.58 King Street, Potton, Beds SG19 2QZ

18 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.ukMilton Ernest Hall Care HomeMilton ErnEstHall was built in1856 and is the onlycountry house designed andbuilt by the noted architectsir William Butterfield. animpressive Grade i listedformer Home to the stareyfamily, it is now beautifullyrefurbished to retain itscharacter. as well as manyyears as a private residence,the house has been a base forUs armed forces during WorldWar ii and a country househotel.the Hall stands in sixteenacres of landscaped groundswithin the picturesque villageof Milton Ernest, five milesnorth of Bedford, MiltonErnest Hall is accessible, withconvenient access to the a6trunk road and has good publictransport links.We have extremely spaciousall en-suite bedrooms andsuites, all fully furnished andtastefully decorated to a highstandard. all our rooms haveprivate direct-dial telephones,electric profiling beds, televisionpoints, a lockable facilityfor valuables, a nurse callalarm and smoke detectors.We provide personal andnursing care on a long term,convalescent and short staybasis. twenty-four hour coveris provided by a qualified,experienced and committedcare team specifically recruitedfor their sensitivity, dedicationand professional expertise inthis area of care. all specialistequipment is available.all Majesticare’s Homes putresidents’ choices first, and atMilton Ernest Hall you are freeto eat your meals in our diningrooms or in your own room.We are happy to provide mealsfor visitors as well. our freshhome-cooked food isnutritionally balanced and wecater for special requirementssuch as vegetarian or softfoods.at Milton Ernest Hall wehave a dedicated activitiesorganiser who arranges a livelysocial calendar including arts,entertainment, exercise, tripssuch as shopping, and events inthe Home. We also arrangeregular visits fromhairdressers, chiropodists,dentists, opticians, local GP’sand a range of otherprofessionals.For more information on Milton Ernest Care Home please contact the Home Manager on 01234 825305.Milton Ernest is a 2 star care home and is part the Majesticare home group which has 16 othercare homes across the country. For further information visit www.majesticare.co.uk

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 19LETTERS TO THE EDITORDELIVERY GLITCHESiEMail in disgust at the deliveryof the ‘Bulletin’ to the areain sandy, st. neots road betweenPete's Mini Market and WindsorWay. this was the only area whichi saw on my way back fromcollecting my daily paper. i thinkthe delivery person must havebeen american as the magazineswere just thrown into residents’front gardens or left on thepavement. it looked a completemess. added to this Pete’s MiniMarket was left with well overseventy copies. Why so manywhen the magazines was deliveredto houses in the area?Barbara A. Arnoldto Mrs arnold,tHank you for taking the timeto contact us. We have hadseveral complaints and in fact,pictures emailed over to us –understandably! there should nothave been any magazines left inshops as we have calculated thenumber of houses and they are theones to receive the magazines.as you know this is a newdelivery area for us and the deliverycompany that we useemployed several people from thelocale. Unfortunately the chap thatcovered your area obviously didnot have his heart in the job – whyhe took it in the first place isbeyond me!i am told by the company thathe has been sacked and they willbe monitoring future deliveriescarefully.as from the December issuesandy will have its own version ofthe Bulletin and we hope youenjoy it and please make sure ifyou belong to any clubs etc thatthey send their news across.i apologise for all the inconvenienceand would appreciate itif you could let me know that themagazine is delivered in the correctmanner next month.Patricia Waller– Operations ManagerREFERENDUM ISSUESiWEntto the House ofCommons last Monday to lobbysome of the Bedfordshire MPs onthe referendum vote.nadine Dorries came out to seeus and she confirmed that she wasin support of the motion.richard Fuller, never came outto see anyone, perhaps because hecould not face us for putting hisParty before the Country.the Editor welcomes yourcorrespondence but reserves theabsolute right to edit any submittedmaterial without reference to theauthor. Please send your letters to:Biggleswade Bulletin, 1 Union Park,triumph Way, Kempston MK427QB or email to: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk or if youwould like to discuss a futureeditorial please call 01234 843905.alistair Burt didn’t come out tosee me, however, i spoke to hissecretary who confirmed that MrBurt had replied to my email andhence there was no need to see me.His response by e-mail included:“…i have read your e-mailcarefully, and do understand thestrength of feelings behind it. But iwould like you to read the articlebelow from William Hague, anacknowledged Euro-sceptic, whoargues why a referendum atpresent would not be right for nowin the Uk.“But for the reasons set out byMr Hague i will be voting not tosupport a referendum now.”in the kind of Democracy thatwe have. William Hague says‘jump’, and most of theConservative MPs say ‘how high’.this very clearly demonstratesthe ever widening gap between thevoters and their elected representativesat Westminster, who simplyare not listening or don't reallycare what their constituents think.Poll after poll has shown thanmore than 50% want to leave EU.the new 2012 EU budgetincreased by 5.2% giving them anextra £5.7 billion of European taxpayers'money, of which the Ukwill have to find £834 million bycutting more public services andfurther borrowing.George KonstantinidisUKIP Mid Beds ChairmanOver 13,500 homes inBiggleswade, Sandyand Potton see theBulletin – have yougot something to say?Call Pat on01234 843905‘Home Swap Scheme’AlistAir Burt MP has welcomed the Government’srecently launched Homeswap Direct – providingtenants of social housing with new opportunities tomove, anywhere in the UK.Homeswap Direct allowstenants looking for a move toidentify suitable properties and tothen arrange a swap. By linkingtogether all existing home-swapservices for the first time, tenantswill be able to see the full rangeof available properties; not justthose listed by a particular swapservice.north East Bedfordshire MPalistair Burt said: “this is a greatstep forward and will give peoplebetter opportunities to move.Whether they want to move into orout of the area i hope this willallow constituents to findthemselves a home that better suitstheir needs. Family situations canchange and this service will allowthem greater flexibility to movenearer to work, closer to theirfamily, or for any other reason.”the scheme will be availableonline from next april, and moredetails can be found at www.communities.gov.ukn0!wed0n’tsELLB0XESFree snowclearing inwintersPonsorED and supported bythe sandy & District seniorCitizens Community supportgroup● are you over 60 and in need ofsupport?● Did you struggle to leave yourhome in 2010 because of thesnow?● Do you live in the sandy &District area?● Would you like your pathcleared of snow this winter,free of charge?if so, fully insured volunteersare ready to clear the snow fromyour path at home this winter tohelp you get out and about in2011/12.if you would like to benefitfrom this service please call:Ken lynch on 01767 681739DROP IN oR CALL01525 841842PRE delivery tested,fuelled, runand readyto go!...Plusa personalhandoverBLACKMOOR FARM, NEW ROAD, MAULDEN, BEDFORDSHIRE, MK45 2BG UK

20 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.ukBen is the ‘man’ on the grid to beatAt tHE end of October inround 10 of the Whilton MillJunior rotax ChampionshipBen tuck delighted his sponsorssAtUrN sYstEMs ltD andgave perhaps the best display yetof his raw driving talent.During a race day where he narrowlymissed another win,followed by, yet again, a chargefrom the back of grid to a top fourposition, he then sufferedcatastrophic damage to his frontleft wheel leaving him to pilot hiscrippled kart for six laps on threetyres over the finish line droppingonly six places.Due to the wheel problem,Ben’s final grid slot was compromisedto tenth from an expectedPole Position. During the Final, ina bizarre twist of fate, his brandnew wheel failed yet again.Undeterred and again on only threegood tyres, Ben set lap times withinfour tenths of a second of theleader and only one hundreth slowerthan last months fastest lap tobring his kart home in a staggeringsixth place!this race in particular demonstratedBen’s maturity in dealingwith the unexpected and hisdetermination to never give up,whilst maintaining a competitiverace pace. Despite having anothersure fire podium snatched away,Ben remained positive, since hisperformance was way beyond his23 race career, which is only justtwo years old.Ben heads into the season finaleat the end of november confidentthat in 24 short months he’s taken abudget that is a fraction of his competitorsand turned from a completenovice into one of the mostaccomplished drivers on the gridof one of the most competitivechampionships in the country.Based on very modest experiencehe has had some amazing successes,such as:three novice trophies fromhis first five racesQualified fourth on the grid ofhis first ever finalConsistent top ten finishes fromhis first seven races including acharge from 19th to ninth in hisfirst ever final at the hugely difficultPFi circuitseveral charges from back ofgrid positions to top five finishesracing with a puncture and finishingsixth in a Whilton Mill finalBen is already regarded as theman to beat in next yearschampionship and with suchpotential and given the rightbudget, Ben is guaranteed tobecome a headline grabbingchampion in the near future.in order to support next yearscampaign Ben needs the support ofbusinesses and organisations willingto share in the excitement andpotential of his career. Ben hasproved himself capable of winningperformances and attractinginvestment with limited equipmentand experience, now is the time toaccelerate his career and create afuture champion with more establishedinvestment.there are many ways to sharein Ben’s successes and benefitfrom his association with 3DrMotorsport including excellentmedia exposure and superb corporateentertainment opportunities.take look at www.bentuck.com.Is your dog Itchy, Smelly, Hyperactive,Aggressive, Timid, Noisy, Anti-social,Possessive or Difficult to control?Then the right food can help. It is so important for yourdogs condition to get the right nutritional advice.We stock leading food brands but will source yourrequirements to order.Also when you buy your dog food from us you get aFREE NAIL CLIP FOR YOUR DOG!Just buy three bags of dog food to earn a free nailclip.We also have a wide range of collars, leads, toys andtreats and the range is growing all the time. Ourprices are always less than the recommended retailprice and we save you time with our FREE deliveryservice. Just contact us about your requirements andwe will get back with great prices all less than R.R.P.So what are you waiting for!Research UKCoffee morningBiGGlEsWaDE Friends ofCancer research Uk held acoffee morning in november atBiggleswade Baptist ChurchHall.the coffee morning was theidea of Janet Moss who decidedto join the fundraising groupafter losing her Mum to cancerten years ago; Janet’s mum wasjust 58 at the time of her death.the coffee morning was afun event with various stalls, araffle and the chance to enjoysome homemade cake with acup of tea or coffee.Biggleswade Friends ofCancer research Uk has beenset up to represent the charity inthe local area by raising fundsand awareness. they have beenrunning for seven months andhave already raised over£2,000.00 through a street collectionand static collectiongoblets.the group currently hasthree members and would lovemore, they are thinking of lotsof exciting fundraising ideas forthe future. they meet monthlyat the old Maltings inBiggleswade.if you would like to join thegroup or volunteer to help out attheir events please contactVictoria Goldsmith, areaVolunteer Manager for Cancerresearch Uk on 07909 967718o r v i c t o r i a . g o l d s m i t h @cancer.org.uk

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 21Ivel Valley U3A – Social MeetingCHairMan anne Joneswelcomed members to theirChristmas Party at Holmemeadschool canteen on 22ndnovember.ann taylor told the membersabout the luncheon she hadattended with anne Jones andDiane keen, for the launch ofWElCoME to the first of a newregular gardening column whichwill feature topical tips and usefuladvice for the novice gardener.a question i often get asked atthis time of year is whether or notit is the right time to prune roses.For most types of roses, the simpleanswer is no it is not. Far better todelay until the plant has started togrow again around March when inaddition to removing the three d’s,the damaged, the diseased and thedead, the plant can be pruned byabout half its size. Crossing,touching stems should also beremoved.For ramblers however, you canprune now concentrating on thethree d’s. long stems on non-ramblersshould also be reduced insize so as to prevent wind rock;wind buffeting stems which damagesthe plant’s roots.not much in life is free but ifyou collect leaves, put them in abin liner, make some holes in itthen make damp with a liberalsoaking of water and then hide outof the way, in a year or so you willhave an entirely organic materialthat can be used as a compost ormulch. keep damp.Garden Doctor ServicesClearance, redesign,Maintenance, tel: 01767 627 581or 07796 328 855, Email:age Uk – the amalgamation ofHelp the aged and age Concern.the organisation were able toassist older people with all mannerof problems, form filling, housingproblems, home help, gardenassistance, applying for state benefitsetc., and a display of theirpamphlets were available for anyThe Garden DoctorlawnDocGardens@aol.com treeCare, Planting, Weeding, Hedgetrimming, turfing, landscaping,lawn improvement, HolidayWatering etc. City & GuildsQualified & Widely Experienced– oaP rates – referencesavailable upon request -interested. treasurer, thelmarogers reminded members thattheir subscription were now dueand remarked that although she satby the raffle prizes she was notavailable as the first prize.the next art Group meetingwas on 6th December when thesubject would be ‘snow’. the firstmeeting in 2012 would be on 7thFebruary when there would be ademonstration on using colouredinks. she said that any memberswould be very welcome to attendthe meeting. Both Book Groupswould be joining together for alunch on 5th December at thePlough, langford. Book Group1’s meeting would follow thelunch at Jean Williams’ house.Book Group 2 meets on 9thDecember at 1.30pm at nettie Vande Weerd’s house.the Craft Group held a verysuccessful session in novemberwhen they produced several itemsof austrian spice Work. the nextmeeting would be at anne Joneswhen they would be makingChristmas cards. the next MusicGroup meeting would be at Dianekeen’s house on 20th Decemberwhen the subject would beChristmas Music. the next walkwould be on the morning of theChristmas lunch on 14thDecember, meeting at rowneyWarren car park at 10.30am. theChristmas Dinner on the 14thDecember was fully subscribed, aswas the trip to the Houses ofParliament on 14th February2012.the Chairman introducedBobbie Ball, Biggleswade’s veryown poetess who read a medley ofher amusing verses. the membersthen enjoyed a superb variety ofChristmas food and an opportunityto chat. Bobbie then read a furtherselection of her poems aboutChristmas. ann taylor gave thevote of thanks for making theChristmas party a very specialafternoon. the raffle, in aid of sueryder, was drawn and the delightedwinners were nettie Van deWeerd, Jean Williams, audreyYaxley, sue oldroyd, Eric lund,thelma rogers, Hazel Warren,Chris Davies, June Davis,Margaret Macinnes, anne Jones& rita lowe.Closing the meeting, anneJones thanked the members for amost enjoyable afternoon and theirdelicious refreshments andreminded members that the nextmeeting was on tuesday, 13thDecember when the speaker isMrs Dot Wigg talking about‘Ghosts of Bedfordshire’.Moving into teams of six,members then enjoyed a furiousgame of beetle. there was a greatdeal of groaning and laughter. thewinners were rewarded by bars ofchocolate.anne closed the meetingreminding members that the nextmeeting would be on 12th aprilfor lunch at the Five Bells.

22 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.ukAnnouncements1. restoration of Marytealby’s grave in Biggleswade,st andrew’s churchyard.readers ot the BiggleswadeChronicle will know that lastMonday, 14 november, workbegan on the restoration of thegravestone of Mary tealby(1801-1865) who in 1860 foundedthe temporary Home forlost and starving Dogs inHolloway, london.after Mary’s death the Homemoved in 1871 to its currentlocation in Battersea and becameBattersea Dogs Home. althoughit had also taken in cats since1883 it was not renamedBattersea Dogs & Cats Homeuntil 2002. Queen Victoriabecame its patron1884 and thepatron today is Her Majesty theQueen. Mary tealby, who hadparted from her husband, a timbermerchant in Hull, arrived inlondon in 1860. she died fromcancer five years later whilststaying with relatives at theElms, london road,Biggleswade and was buried inst andrew’s churchyard. Herbrother, the reverend EdwardBates, who helped Mary in herwork, was buried in the sameplot in 1876.the restoration work, whichinvolves replacing worn sectionsof stone, including some of thelettering, is being carried out forBattersea Dogs & Cats Home byCliveden Conservation ofMaidenhead. Biggleswaderesident, Des Ball, has taken aspecial interest in the town’s linkwith this world famous institutionsince 1960, the centenary ofthe founding of the Home, whenrepresentatives from Batterseafirst came to Biggleswade tolocate the resting place of theirfounder. it was Des who suggestedthe project to preserveMary’s memorial for posterityand he has kindly offered tocollect donations fromBiggleswade and forward themto Battersea Dogs & Cats Homeas a contribution from the towntowards the cost of the work.the History society’sCommittee has decided by amajority vote to set the ballBiggleswade History Societyrolling with a donation of £250.individuals wishing to donateshould send a cheque payable to‘Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’to: Desmond Ball, 16 saffronroad, Biggleswade, Beds. sG188DJ or ‘Daleside’, lawrenceroad, Biggleswade, Beds. sG180lr - with a stamped addressedenvelope if you would like Desto send you a receipt. Donationsto reach Des no later than 15December, please, so that he canreport back to us the totalamount raised in time for nextmonth’s newsletter.2. new Dan albone books.last month saw the launch ofray Miller and lee irvine’s newhigh quality a5 paperbackbook, ‘Veteran-Cycle ClubMarque album no.2 – ivel’, 168very readable pages aboutBiggleswade’s Dan albone andhis significant contribution tocycling history, both as a championcyclist and early designerand manufacturer of cycles.We have heard from rayMiller that the 433-page largeformat a4 hardback book will beavailable early in December.Judging by the standard of thefirst book we await with anticipationthe arrival of the second,which promises to be a ‘musthave’ comprehensive record ofall of Dan’s many achievementsand inventions – in short, a bookto treasure.the expected cover price willbe £25. Furthermore, lee irvineand ray Miller have agreed toattend our special January 2012meeting at the ConservativeClub, when we shall be displayingthe Dan albone archive forBiggleswade donated to oursociety by lee irvine and hislate wife, Maude, great-niece ofDan albone. Both books willalso be available at that event.3. Biggleswade has a bookshopagain! susie’s Bookstorein the new inn Yard, Marketsquare opened for business onthursday, 10 november.NEWs FrOM tHEArCHiVEsour thanks for the followingaccessions:1. From ken Page, a largeframed aerial photograph ofBiggleswade (date unknown)left in one of the flats at VictoriaCourt and passed on to ken. itshows the lakes estate, the a1and the railway bridge.2. Copy of an illustrated articlefeaturing Dan albone’sarmoured vehicle. (scientificamerican Magazine 1907.)3. From ray Miller, copy ofa page from 23 July 1901 editionof ‘sport and Play and Wheellife’ advertising BiggleswadeFete and Cycle Meeting.MEEtiNGsthe Biggleswade Historysociety meets monthly atMillennium House, shortmeadstreet, Biggleswade. Doorsopen at 7.45 for an 8.00 pm starton the first tuesday of themonth, unless notified.Meetings are free to members;visitors are normally welcome atour indoor meetings for £2.00the Biggleswade History society meets monthly at MillenniumHouse, shortmead street, Biggleswade. Doors open at 7.45pm for an8.00pm start on the first tuesday of the month unless notified.Meetings are free to members; visitors will usually be welcome toour indoor meetings at a charge of £2.00 per meeting.Forthcoming Programme (2011-12)6 December Members’ only. Christmas Party at the ConservativeClub.10 January Dan albone archive for Biggleswade on publicdisplay at the Conservative Club. no need to book.7 February ‘the archaeology & History of BiggleswadeCommon’ – a talk by David Mcomish.6 March ‘the Victorian Way of Death’ – a talk by tom Doig.3 april annual General Meeting. Members only.per meeting.last Meeting:01 nov Mollie stockerreports: Fifty people were presentto hear the guest speaker,Michael knight, give a wellillustrated talk about Milestonesand Biggleswade during theturnpike Era. Michael describedhow historical events and legislationimposed by the reigningsovereign, mainly during theperiod 1740-1871, ensured thatroads were established to copewith ever increasing travel.turnpike trusts were formed toimprove roads.these were managed by localgentry who became responsiblefor the provision of toll gateswhere travellers and drovers hadto pay in order to proceed, thereforeenabling the improvementof large sections of highwaysthroughout the land.With the provision of betterroads came the need for someform of signpost to provide anindication of miles travelled andstill to travel. this resulted instone markers or posts – sometimesmade of cast iron – withmileage carved on them indicatingdistances to the next town,village or city.these pillars were known asmilestones and several still existin the Biggleswade area and canbe identified on the Milestonesociety’s website: www.milestonesociety.co.ukMany milestones were coveredup or buried when invasionseemed imminent in 1940 andthey are still being rediscoveredall over the country. some 9,000have been identified by theMilestone society and it isthought that many still lie buriedor forgotten in ditches and gardens.Michael ended his engagingtalk with an impromptu diversioninto the world of cyclingand the usefulness of milestonesto cyclists, particularly duringthe Dan albone era, and afterwardsmany questions were putto this very informative speakerwho had entertained us all withhis wit and enthusiasm.For further information contact: Jane Croot 01767 650340, editor@biggleswadehistory.org.uk www.biggleswadehistory.org.uk

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 23Twas Christmas Dayin the WorkhouseThe following three short articles,which appeared in Biggleswadehistory Society’s December 2004Newsletter, show how theWorkhouse inmates, soldiers of theRoyal engineers Signallersstationed in the town and patientsin the Biggleswade Red Crosshospital celebrated Christmas in1914. When Britain had gone towar against Germany in Augustthat year it was commonly believedthat the war would be over byChristmas. how wrong that provedto be; there would be almost fourmore years of war to endure anddeath and destruction on a scalenever before imagined. But for nowit was Christmas – a time of giving,of good cheer and goodwill. Thearticles are reproduced verbatimfrom contemporary BiggleswadeChronicle reports. I have addedfrom the history Society’s archivesa contemporary postcard ofBiggleswade sent home by one ofthe soldiers quartered here. Itshows the Market Square as itlooked then, with the Town hall(now Ask restaurant) and drumclock on the left of picture.Jane Croot, Newsletter Editor.CHRISTMAS AT THEWORKHOUSEthe inmates at the Workhousespent a most enjoyable time at thatinstitution on Christmas day,thanks to no small extent to theexcellent arrangements made fortheir enjoyment by Mr Brind andhis staff and the kindly gifts offriends. a very bright and heartyservice took place in the morning at10.15, when the rev. G. Haroldstrange, Ma gave an excellent andmost appropriate address to theinmates.Dinner was served at 12.30 anda splendid meal it was. the fareconsisted of roast beef, pork andfowl with baked and boiled potatoes,parsnips and cabbage andChristmas pudding. there was alsoginger beer and the muchdiscussed‘beer’. the carvers wereMr F.C. kitchener (guardian) andMr George Wagg (clerk to theBoard) and other guardians presentwere Mr F. Gee, Mr JamesMatthews and Mr F.W. Bray -brooks. these assisted with thework of serving the inmates, as alsodid Miss Braybrooks, Misskitchener and Miss Munsey.after dinner the women wereserved with tea and sugar and themen with tobacco, and all receivedoranges and apples. tea was servedat 5pm, and this meal was also anenjoyable one. the Vicar was alsopresent and also Mr Chew andfamily, and the former had a veryinteresting talk with the people.the ladies of the VisitingCommittee sent a bountiful supplyof toys for the children andtobacco, tea and sugar for theinfirmary patients.in the evening the customaryimpromptu concert took place, MrFrederick Head acting as chairman,and again a happy time was spent,the day as stated earlier, being anenjoyable one throughout. as inprevious years the interior of therooms had been beautifullydecorated for the festive season,and this work, like the arrangementsfor the day, reflected thegreatest possible credit on theMaster, Matron and their staff.SOLDIERS’ CHRISTMASFESTIVITIESalthough some of the soldierswho are quartered in the town weredisappointed at not being able toreturn home for the Christmasseason, all were able to spend ahappy holiday, for they had quite ahost of attractions provided.as announced in our last issue,there was a dance earlier in theweek, and for Christmas Eve andChristmas evening, George’sPicture Palace was speciallychartered and a special list of filmswere shown, while vocal itemswere rendered by a number of thesoldiers, and the orchestra of thenorthern signal Company, underthe direction of Mr Will C. sinclair,supplied the instrumental music.on Boxing Day a dance tookplace at the town Hall, and a bigcompany spent a jolly time.on sunday the soldiers had arest at their billets, but on Mondaythe festivities were continued witha smoking concert taking place inthe town Hall. as previously stated,there is an abundance of musicaltalent among our soldier guests,and the programme was up to theircustomary standard. the weatherwas about as wretched as one couldimagine, but despite this there wasa fair attendance. last evening afancy dress ball was held at thetown Hall, when prizes wereoffered for the three best costumesladies and gents.Continued on page 27Sandy Historical Research GroupPreserving our roots!sanDY Historical researchGroup was founded in late 2001and formally constituted in2002. originally, there was asmall group of like minded individualsthat had come togetherwith a consensus view about thecontinuing erosion of our localheritage. sure, the townCouncil had its roman artefactson display in the CouncilChambers and the population ofschool age were to be encouragedto learn about ancientsandy by the provision of a‘roman sandy’ website.However, it seemed that noonewas looking back into ourmore recent historical past andpreserving material that wouldbe of interest to a wider public.therefore, a gap in our knowledgewas perceived, whichcould be filled by the formationof a local historical researchgroup.since those early days, thegroup has flourished, with itsphotographic archive growinginto today’s archive of over3000 photographs, some datingback to the end of the 19th century.over time, through donationsof material from localcitizens, a large number of physicalartefacts have beenacquired, ranging from wagonwheels to pub signs! in between,the group has also received variousdocuments, includingmaps, deeds receipts fromtraders long gone into the mistsof time and even some paintings.the archive has grown tosuch an extent that the collectionnow resides in a number of separatelocations – space kindlyloaned by supporters of thegroup. However, this is not idealon two fronts, firstly, whilst alarge proportion of the archive isstored safely away, no-one canview the many items we have inthis storage. secondly, althoughthe items are stored in dry andsecure locations, the conditionsunder which they are stored arenot ideal.on this basis, for severalyears now, the group has beenon a mission to provide a museumfor the town, where much ofthe material currently in store,can be put on dislapy in properlycontrolled conditions. notonly will the public be able tocome and see what we have butthe museum will provide anadditional attraction to the townfro visitors in the local area.there is still a long way to gohowever and in the meantime,the group has been busy puttingactions together in order to makea museum a reality. it my yettake a while, particularly inthese straitened times whenfunding is tight but there is avery positive feeling amongstthe group committee, that oneday, it will happen.so, what is the group doingto engage the interest of the localpopulation? Exhibitions of ourphotographic archive are heldthroughout the year; we holdseveral open meetings duringthe year, where a guest speakertalks about subjects local tosandy and district that have ahistorical background. in addition,there have been presentationsby the group to other localorganisations and schools,which are designed to ‘spreadthe word’. there is also a programmeof publications, includingthe group’s twice annualnewsletter, ‘sHrUB’, whichhas been continually producedsince 2003. the newsletter goesout to members free of chargeand recently has been innovatedby the provision of a ‘PDF, version,which can be emailed andread locally on the recipient’shome computer. in 2007 andagain in 2009, Volumes 1 & 2 of‘Pictorial Memories of sandy’were published, each with a collectionof historical photographsselected from the archive. notonly has this provided funds forthe group to continue in its longterm mission to achieve a townmuseum, it also helps to fund theongoing activities of the groupin the provision of local eventsthrough the year.over time, membership ofthe group has continued to grow,as more local people becomeinterested and involved in whatthe group stands for. recentexhibitions have been very successfulin recruiting new membersand it is anticipated that thiswill improve even more in thecoming years as the work beingdone by the group becomes evenContinued on page 27

24 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk001 Lilly RoseVOTE FOR COUNTRY CLIPS DOGHERE they are, all the entrants for ourcompetition. As you can see we had abrilliant time with all our doggie friends andtheir owners, producing some greatportraits. Nathalie Todd(www.nathalietodd.com) was ourphotographer and she had to be quick tocatch some of our clients as we had a fewmovers not too keen on having their photostaken !The winner will get £150 worth of doggiegoodies and there are three great runner up002 Charlie 006 Diesel 010 Willow 014 Hummer 018 Harry003 Tilly 007 Bailey 011 Fizz 015 Marley 019 Milo004 Chica 008 Chibi 012 Gracie 016 Mollie 020 Pippa005 Cooper 009 Scruffy 013 Molly 017 Shadow 021 Connie

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 25STAR – PHOTO COMPETITION!prizes as well. The winner will be publishedin the January edition of the Bulletin.Don't forget Country Clips, the areasbest known qualified groomers and petstore. Contact 01767 260589.www.countryclips.co.ukTO VOTEplease emailcarol.countryclips@googlemail.comstating the dogs name and reference number(only one vote per email address).038 Charlie022 Clair and Alex 026 Dusty 030 Trevor 034 Angel 039 Lucy023 Sammy 027 Jessie 031 Zoe 035 Chelsea 040 Buddy024 Pixie 028 Molly 032 Buell 036 Peaches 041 Skipper025 Evie Bear 029 Bailey 033 Sapphire 037 Bessie 042 Mossy

26 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.ukSPORT – CRICKETSandy Cricket ClubsANDY Cricket Club has been playing in East Bedfordshirefor many decades, and is currently based at sunderlandroad recreation Ground, in sandy. the playing surface isregarded as one of the best in the area. the Club is located inthe excellent Jenkins Pavilion, which boasts six teamchanging rooms, two changing rooms for match officials,plus an electronic scoreboard.sandy CC has worked hard toachieve the ECB’s Clubmarkstatus, and this status confirms theClub’s commitment “to being asafe, effective and child-friendlycricket club”. Within our Club, wehave a major focus on youthdevelopment and in 2012 willhave teams competing at under 10,under 12 and under 14 levels in theBedfordshire Youth Cricketleague. the main emphasis is forchildren’s participation within afun and safe environment, ratherthan a result driven atmosphere.Within the Junior section wehave a number of ECB QualifiedCoaches, all of whom are CrBchecked and have attended 1st aidand child safeguarding courses.the Club also has a Club Welfareofficer, and adheres to the ECB’ssafe Hands guidelines.Junior Cricket Coachingsessions run throughout the whole12 months of the year. in the wintermonths these sessions arelocated in the sports hall at sandyUpper school. From april throughto the end of september, the sessionsmove outdoors to theoutdoor Cricket net area atsandy Upper school.sandy CC also participates inthe 'Chance to shine' initiative,which is a charity that aims tobring cricket back to state schools.in partnership with BedfordshireCricket limited (formerly theBedfordshire Cricket Board), freecricket sessions are offered at anumber of the local sandyschools.For more information, hereare some FAQ’s:Q: Is my son / daughter oldenough?a: We take children from schoolYear 2. remember, we offertrial weeks, so you can try it forfree.Q: Should I practice before comingto the first training session?a: simple throwing and catchingwith a tennis ball. if you have abat, get used to the feel andweight. this will all help whenyou start, but whatever you’restandard, the main thing we arelooking for is plenty ofenthusiasm.Q: What should we bring andwear?a: normal, comfortable sportsclothing and trainers, a waterbottle. During the summermonths bring sun block and ahat on sunny days.Q: Where do you play?a: During the summer we arebased in the outdoor nets area,behind the “toybox nursery”in the Upper school. Duringthe winter we have our sessionsin the indoor sports hall withinTO PROVIDE ALL YOUR PARTY NEEDS;Filled party bags, helium balloons, tableware,decorations, for all occasions and themes.Affordable competitive prices and deliveredto your door.Please email: partypax4u@live.co.ukSee us on Facebook – for a price list or callJodie 07758 596936Emily 07976 251299 / 01767 318744the Upper school.Q: how much does it cost?a: We charge just £20 for 6months play. this covers allcoaching sessions and matchfees.Q: Do you play matches?a: During the summer we takepart in matches against otherlocal clubs. all children whowish to take part are invited toplay.Q: how can I find out more information?Please contact our CoachingCo-ordinator, ian Hurst, on 07941876292 or email ianmark.hurst@ntlworld.comas well as offering the opportunitiesto participate in cricket,sandy CC also offers opportunitiesto watch professional cricket.one of the highlights of the year isour Junior section Day out, whenthe Junior Members and theirfamilies come together to watch at20 match at one of the localCounty grounds.We also encourage family participationin the highly anticipatedend of season Parent v Juniormatches. these matches areplayed at all age levels, and in2011 the Juniors gained revengeafter the previous seasons defeats.sandy CC runs senior teams onboth saturday and sundayafternoons throughout the summermonths. on sunday’s the seniorsquad plays in the BedfordshireCounty league, and on saturday’sthe Club will be entering a seniorXi team into the newly restructuredBedfordshire invitationalleague. We also arrange friendlymatches to give less experiencedplayers the opportunity to gainconfidence within a match environment.the Club will, in thevery near future, be looking toform a Development team, to helpcreate a structured pathway forjunior players to progress throughto senior cricket.the qualified coaching staffalso run practice sessions for thesenior squad, at the outdoor nets atsandy Upper school coachingstaff also run practice sessions forthe senior squad, at the outdoornets at sandy Upper schoolthroughout the summer months.During the winter months, thesessions move indoors to thesports hall at sandy Upper school.senior players can use thesesessions to practice all parts of thegame, and particularly hone theirbatting skills against the coachingstaff’s bowling machine (potentiallyrunning at up to 80mph).these sessions are open to anyadults who wish to practice theircricket skills, irrespective ofexperience and ability.the Club also offers indoorleague cricket during the winter.We participate in the 6-a-sideindoor league at the BunyanCentre, in Bedford; the Club isalso hoping to start a second teamwithin this league structure.as well as the men’s cricket onoffer, sandy CC also runs ladiesonlycricket coaching sessions. itis hoped to offer league cricket fora ladies-only team, and this couldpotentially be via a joint venturewith other local clubs under acombined East Beds ladies squad.sandy Cricket Club is fortunateto have two local venues that kindlysponsor the club. the BellPublic House sponsors the seniorsection, and the akbar indianrestaurant sponsors the Juniorsection. social events are organisedat both of these venuesthroughout the year.sandy CC welcomes all newplayers to the Club, irrespective ofexperience and ability. We offerparticipation for all age groups,and especially encourage allwomen and girls to try participationin the sport.For more information checkthe Club’s websites: sandy.playcricket.comor www.sandycricketclub.co.ukVolunteersneededsANDY Young People'stuesday Youth Club needsvolunteers. this is for childrenof between eight andtwelve years old and there arenormally between 24 and 45children in attendance.they meet tuesdays6pm–8pm at the YouthCentre,sandye PlaceAcademy Campus.if you can spare some timeplease contact 01767 681739

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 27SPORT – RUGBYSuccessful yearWith the short Christmas break just around the corner,Biggleswade rugby end a year which has seen the First XVpromoted and go on to the top of Midlands 3 East (south).Home action for the First XV sees them take on old rivalsstamford on saturday December 10th at 2.15pm.stamford are also threateningthe top of the league and were theonly side to beat Biggy twice lastseason. the other games inDecember include an away gameat northampton Casuals on 3rdDecember and a short drive toBedford Queens on saturday 17thDecember. Both sides have had apoor start to the season and lay inthe bottom quarter of the league;however Biggleswade cannotafford to be complacent. a gameis also scheduled for new Year’sEve which will most likely be afriendly.the First XV’s november campaignsaw them beat Daventry andDeepings rugby but be comprehensivelybeaten by new leagueleaders northampton BBoBs bysome 47 points. the step toMidlands 3 has been fairly straightforward but the club now knowsthat to progress to Midlands twowill take a change in attitude, skillsand investment.Biggleswade involvement inthe rFU Vase ended at sleaford ina 28-22 defeat in a game whichsaw the home side gifted two easytries, and suffer a number ofinjuries to key players.However, a convincing 25 – 10win over Bedford swifts see’sBiggy progress to the next round ofthe County Cup where they meetDunstablians in a game scheduledfor February 26th.the club’s second (thePirates) and third XV also havehome games on saturday 10thDecember when the 2s face Bishopstortford and the 3s meet Harlow4s on saturday 3rd December,followed by shelford 4s on 10thDecember.saturday 10th December issanta niGHt. the annual charitysanta night takes place aroundthe pubs and clubs of Biggleswadeand sandy raising funds for charityand funds. Please give generouslywhen you see 40 santa’s in town.the Biggy grounds staff, Mikeand Martin benefited from aconsultation from the best in thebusiness when keith kent, headgrounds man at twickenham visitedthe club in october. long termprojects were discussed includingirrigation and the management ofplayer’s time on the pitches. Biggygrounds manager Mike adamssaid: “We were very pleased withthe evaluation of the pitches; keithhas given us some great tips tocontinue to improve the grounds”keith commented that thesheepwalk pitches were “brilliantpitches on a bed of stone… thepitches are a credit to the club,”concluding that Biggleswade is“a great club and one that was apleasure to visit.”Biggleswade U11s competed inthe national land rover Cup heldin northwood last month whichpitted them against some big namesides. a win against Colchesterwas not enough to see themthrough to the final after lossesagainst Ealing trailfinders andHarpenden. the team then went onto watch saracens play sale sharksat Vicarage road.saracens Herts & MiddlesexleaguesCorrect at time of writingU13s are 2nd in division fourU14s are 6th in division four with 2games in handU15s are 6th in division four, havingforfeited their game vs oldalbanians due to insufficientnumber of players.U16s are 6th in division oneBiggleswade have also madetwo important new appointmentsto the back room staff with andyBarwell heading up the schoolsliaison role. andy has a son in theMini section and will develop therelationship with local schools andthe school sports partnership; thiswill include the provision ofqualified coaches to assist withafter schools clubs. andy can becontacted via the club emailbiggy@biggleswaderugby.co.ukalan Hilditch has taken on thesponsorship Development roleand will be developing the linksbetween the club and local andnational businesses.Christmas Day in the WorkshouseContinued from page 25all the men belonging to thenorthern signal Companyreceived a case of cigarettes and abody belt on Christmas Eve, thethoughtful and kindly gifts of afriend.CHRISTMAS ATBIGGLESWADE REDCROSS HOSPITALthe soldiers who are patients atthe red Cross Hospital,Biggleswade, were not forgottenduring Christmas time, for thanksto the kindness of Mrs Gurney,Commandant of the VaD, sisterConry and other friends, they wereable to spend a real happy time.Preserving our roots!Mix it Creatively!At The Creative Mix we can turn yourcreative ideas into a creative reality!At The Creative Mix we are committed to exciting, inspiringcommunications that get your message across effectively.We pride ourselves on finding the best creative solution toa brief and will handle everything from start to finish.Whether you need new corporate ID, brochures, leaflets,website or exhibition design or that very special photograph,give us a call – 01767627144.For more examples of what we can do, check out our websitewww.creative-mix.co.ukthecreativemixthe rooms were beautifullydecorated by the nurses and with anicely stocked Christmas tree thescene was a charming one.on Christmas Eve the Vicarbrought a choir of boys, who sangcarols very sweetly, and onChristmas Day the men had a rightgood time. the fare was quiteseasonable, Mrs Gurney sending afine turkey, and the dinner was ahappy event. on Monday there wasmore Christmas cheer, for sisterConry held a party to which presentand past patients, the nurses andmany other friends were invitedand a right royal time was spent byall, the soldiers receiving each ahandsome present from theChristmas tree.Continued from page 25more recognised throughout thecommunity.sandy Historical researchGroup is always pleased to welcomenew members throughoutthe year. More details and a flavourof what the group is involved in,can be found on the website at:www.sandy-history.org.uk. Youcan join in the conversation by visitingthe Blog at: www.shrgblog.com. it’s free to register and postyour comments and viewsChairman, Mick reynolds willbe pleased to answer any questionsabout the group – you canemail him at: chairman@sandyhistory.org.ukor call him on 01767680887.Steve Purchase, Press Officerpress@sandy-history.org.uk

28 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk“tHErE were more dances andthere were forfeits, and moredances, and there was cake, andthere was negus, and there was agreat piece of cold roast, andthere was a great piece of coldboiled, and there were mincepies, and plenty of beer’this was how the ChristmasDay Feast was celebrated inCharles Dickens’ a ChristmasCarol’.over the Christmas season weall perhaps partake of too muchfood and do lots of sitting around -so why not take a walk in the beautifulBedfordshire countryside andwalk off that excess of food anddrink and the tiredness that goeswith it.in the tourist informationCentre we have a large range oflocal walk leaflets, many of themare circular routes, some are byrivers, others are amongst the ridgeof greensand that spans the county,some go through arable fields, andsome through woodlands and parklands.one of the many walks you canundertake this winter is the oldWarden Circular Walk – details ofwhich are set out below:-The Old Warden walkthe walk is nearly eight miles inlength and takes approximatelyfour hours. Parts of this walk passthrough pine forests and so thousandsof Christmas trees and otherpines and spruces can be seen andJam and OpenMicrophone SessionsRoger, Peter and Dewie, with local saxophonist Geoff.tHErE’s a date, 1667, inscribedjust inside the front door of thered lion, Biggleswade. one canonly wonder about what life waslike then, in a building which wasthought not to have originated asan alehouse (more likely a domesticdwelling). these days it’s a pubwell-known for its focus on theprovision of music of varioussorts, depending on whether youwant to just listen, or, better still,take part.Consequently, it attracts visitorsof all ages. over the last fewmonths the jam sessions have beenparticularly interesting to regularattendees, and tim (landlord) andZoe (bar manager and organiser onjam nights) are keen to keep up themomentum. these sessions hadbeen fortunate to have regularplayers like roger Banks, Peter(Jam Dude) and Dewie to act asmainstay players while many othersplaying semi-acoustic guitarscontributed to exciting evenings.roger, Peter and Dewie haveWarden winter walkreturned to Florida but are expectedto spend some time with usagain next year.now and again this jam session/openmic event throws upsome surprises. We’ve had a highlyskilled guitarist playing aGibson sG, a spanish operasinger, and, more recently, asuperb young alto-saxophoneplayer from Biggleswade JohnDiggle, who delighted us all withhis expertise in playing jazz. themessage is that a good time is to behad by stepping forward and joiningin these jam/open mic sessions.in particular drummers,bass players and singers are verywelcome though there is roomenough for all musicians of all talents,especially beginners. Whynot come along on a Wednesdayevening, from 8 o’clock? the pubhas its own Pa equipment and virtuallya full set of drums (bringyour hi-hat). Guitarists shouldbring their own guitar and amplifiers.a good time is guaranteed!the nose can enjoy the scent ofChristmas.this Walk explores the countrysidearound the pretty villages ofold Warden, northill and ickwell.one can enjoy stunning landscapeviews and walk through the woodlandsand villages and get aninsight into the history of this beautifularea.old Warden is a picturesque villagerecreated in a swiss style in theearly 19th Century by lord ongley.Further houses were added in acomplementary style by theshuttleworth family when theyacquired the estate in the 1870s.the present mansion house standingin the 500 acre old WardenPark, was rebuilt for Josephshuttleworth in 1876. near themansion are the famousshuttleworth Collection, the Birdof Prey Centre and the 19th centuryswiss Garden – some ofBedfordshire’s top attractions. the12th Century Church of st.leonard is noted for its woodcarvings,some said to have come fromthe private chapel of anne ofCleaves and is well worth a visit.northill this village contains anumber of thatched cottages andbuildings of various periods.northill’s parish church, which isbuilt of local ironstone containsfine examples of 17th-centurypainted glass.ickwell this is a hamlet ofnorthill and is famed for it’s largeVillage Green, surrounded by anumber of thatched cottages. onthe Green is the permanent red andwhite striped maypole, whilst closeby standing in its delightful park isickwell Bury – a 17th centurycountry house rebuilt after a disastrousfire 1930’s. also to be seen isthe picturesque thatched cottage,birthplace of thomas tomion, thefamous master clockmaker andwatchmaker.Here is a shortened version ofthe route to give you a taster ofwhat you will see on this delightfulwalk.the route - the Walk starts forthe Village Hall Car Park in oldWarden and goes along the villagestreet and proceeds along a footpathto st leonard’s Church andit’s Car Park. leave the Church CarPark via a kissing gate and followthe footpath into Palmers Wood.Continuing through the centre ofthe wood and following the fieldboundary you will then join the‘Greensand ridge Walk’. thisWalk is 40 miles in length stretchingacross the county fromleighton Buzzard, north eastwardsto Gamlingay. the view north westfrom the ridge includes the formerairship hangers at Cardington andravensden Water tower. afterpassing the delightfully namedsweetbriar Farm continue toHighlands Farm, a distinctiveGeorgian residence which duringWW2 was used to house prisonersof war who worked on nearbyfarms.Follow the way marking andcross an avenue of alternating horsechestnut and lime trees which runsfrom Deadman’s oak to ickwellBury. Pass though through HomeWood and thereafter the medievalfish ponds. the walk then leads tovillage of northill. Call in and seeor carry on and pass the large parishchurch and follow the road throughthe village until you reach ickwellGreen.leave ickwell via ‘thesheepwalk’ bridleway and crossthe main road and follow the pathand its two bridges. one then skirtsthe shuttleworth airfield and walksalong the estate drive. after goingpast lowsiebush Covert one goesalong a farm track with a recentlyplanted avenue of oaks.one turns right onto the mainroad with its beautiful woodlandsand one sees the well maintainedlow holly hedge which is theboundary of southill Park, ancestralhome of the famous Whitbreadfamily. the house stands in a parkof 800 acres landscaped by‘Capability’ Brown in the 18th century.after a short distance, passinga delightful thatched cottage, onegoes though Warden Warren Woodwith its mixed plantations andwhere you may get a glimpsethrough the trees of the recentlyrestored 18th century folly, Queenanne’s summer House. afterwalking through the Warren one reentersold Warden. note on yourleft the thatched dwelling with itsrustic pillars called the swissCottage and opposite it one of themany water wells to be seen in thevillage. return to the car park at therear of the Village Hall where thewalk started.this is just a taster of this suggestedwinter walk. Pick up a copyof the old Warden leaflet at thetourist information Centre andmake it a must for this Christmasholiday period or at any time ofyear. or call into the Centre andchoose any of the many local walkleaflets that are available.All GOOD CHristMAsWisHEs FrOM tHE stAFFAt sANDY tOUristiNFOrMAtiON CENtrE

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 29OUT AND ABOUTChoral society and Youth Choir team up for ChristmasBiggleswade & District Choral society’s annualCHristMAs CONCErtsaturday 17th December, 7.30 pm,st Andrew’s Church Biggleswade.the society will be joined by the East Beds Youth Choir for awonderful evening of Christmas music.karen Beer, musical director of both choirs, has put together adelightful mix of the traditional and familiar with some more modernand less well known pieces. there will be carols for everyone to joinin, selections from ‘Messiah’, and the voices of talented local soloistsalison Eames, Helen rotchell and Dan sheath.Choral society chairman, archie russell, told us: “our ChristmasConcerts have always been a hugely popular and enjoyable part ofour singing calendar. We were so disappointed that last year’s concertfell victim to the dramatic snow fall. We shall be pulling out all thestops to make this one extra special.”take a break in the run-up to Christmas. Come and relax to the soundof beautiful seasonal music. Everyone is welcome and both choirs arelooking forward to singing ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ justfor you!tickets are £8 and include refreshments.Contact: Archie on 01767 312966, Val on 01462 700462 orCambridge Coins, 52 High street, Biggleswade.Under 12’s are free.You can learn more about Biggleswade & District Choral societyat www.biggleschoral.org.ukCHristMAs FAMilY CONCErtEast BEDs ConCErt BanDConductors: elizabeth Schofield and Andrew KershawWithEast BEDs YoUtH CHoirConductor: Karen Beersaturday 10th December 6.30pmstratton Upper schoolFEstiVE FUN FOr littlE ONEsthere'll be plenty of festive fun for preschoolers at theBiggleswade, sandy & District nCt Christmas Party onMonday 19th December - including a visit from santa!open to nCt members and non-members alike, the party willrun from 2.30pm to 4.30pm at Biggleswade BaptistChurch. tickets cost £1.00 for adults and just 50p per child.enjoy crafts, a tombola, refreshments, stalls and fundemonstrations from local groups A for Active andSing and Sign.And if you'd like to visit Santa, bring along a pre-wrapped giftfor your child, clearly labelled with their name.For tickets or more information call Jo on 0741 570 7268You can also pay for tickets in advance atwww.justgiving.com/biggleswadesandynctto find out more about your local nCt - run by local parentsfor local parents - visit www.biggleswade-nct.org.ukCHristMAs CONCErtChristmas Concert with the stotfold salvation Army Band atsandy Upper school on thursday 8th December at 7.30 pmIn aid of The Leprosy Mission.also taking part will be st swithun's lower school Choir, sandyMethodist Church Girls Brigade, soloist alison Eames and, for thefirst time, the sandye singers.tickets at £4 each can be obtained in advance from sandy tiC orColin Osborne (tel. 01767 682032) or available on the doorCHAritYPiCKlED ONiON COMPEtitiONCoaCH anD HorsEs, shortmead streetsunday 18th DecemberCome along with you entriesOperation Cold Comforta night sleeping under the stars will raise money for the sandy &District Unemployment & Guidance Centre and for operation ColdComfort needs.Project Co-ordinator is Ken lynch, is organising the sleepout forsaturday, December 10th and sunday, December 11th.there are spaces for 25 to 30 adults or children over eight with theirparents to sleep outside Budgens and the Post office in sandy Marketsquare to raise sponsorship money.Two thirds of the money will go to The Need Project, which is run byKings Baptist Church in Stotfold and one third will go to the helpinghands Unemployed and Guidance Centre in Sandy. Budgens has nowgiven the centre permission to stay in the building permanently withno rent, which should make future fundraising easier.Hot drinks and a toilet will be available all night. to take part callKen on 01767 681739.sANDY & DistriCt’s NEWUNEMPlOYMENt & GUiDANCE CENtrEis now open at 30a Market square in sandy (above Budgens).Opening timesMonday – thursday 9.30am -12.30pm and 1.30pm - 4.30pmFor those requiring disabled access, this service is also available atthe library in sandy every Friday 10.30am - 11.30am.For further information please contact:laura De Quincey, Centre Co-ordinator, tel: 01767 690050

30 BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 TEL: 01234 843905 EDITORIAL: editorial@biggleswadebulletin.co.ukOUT AND ABOUTStagecoach Bedfordis now taking bookings for the Spring TermTel: 01234 350799e-mail: bedford@stagecoach.co.ukweb: www.stagecoach.co.uk/bedfordtHE loCrian CHaMBEr CHoirthe locrian Chamber Choir, based inPotton are gaining a growingreputation in the area, present:tWOCArOl CONCErtsConducted by David Beer and theaccompanist will be Tessa Wood.Wednesday December 21stChurch of st Mary Magdalene,Duntonthursday December 22ndChurch of st John the Baptist,Cockayne Hatley.tickets for both concerts areavailable (adults £7, children andstudents £5) from Juliet Jones –phone 01767 226123.Mince pies and hot drinks will beavailable after the concerts and areincluded in the ticket price.rED lion, BiGGlEsWaDEJAM ANDOPEN MiCNiGHtWednesdays8pmWhy not start your Christmasearly ?Come and seetHEAMiCi siNGErsCHristMAsCONCErtAt Dunton Church, Dunton ,7.00pm 3rd. December 2011tickets : £6, £4. for concessions.accompanied childrenunder 12 – free.refreshments provided of mincepies/shortbread and soft drinks.MarCH HarE,DUntonQUiZNiGHts7.30pm1st sunday of the Month and2nd Wednesday of the monthBiGGlEsWaDE sanDY lionsCHAritY DANCEBiggleswade sandy lions are holdingtheir annual Christmas Charity Dance atthe Weatherly Centre on10th December starting at 8pm.Dancing will be to the ever popular‘Rhythm and Rhapsody’ bandand there will be the traditional tombola withquality prizes as always.a bar is available with tickets costing £13 each whichincludes a plated supper. all profits from this event gotowards helping us provide around 250 Christmasparcels for the lonely and those who have hit hardtimes to bring them some festive cheer.tickets are on sale now and can beobtained fromJudith Hagger on 01462 814693 orJulie Bonfield on 0777 1735 638.

TEL: 01234 843905 ADVERTISING: advertising@biggleswadebulletin.co.uk BULLETIN DECEMBER 2011 31ABBOTSLEY GOLF COURSEDecember & January SpecialTasty Tuesdays and ThursdaysFull English breakfast + 18 holes on theAbbotsley Golf Course for just £20Bacon Roll + 18 holes on theCromwell Course for just £15Call 01480 474000 to book.CROMWELL GOLF CENTREFloodlit driving rangeNew power tees, quality golf ballsA golfing workout for just £3!Abbotsley Golf Hotel, Potton Road, St NeotsPE19 6XN, 01480 474000www.abbotsley.com

Bedfordshire’s Best Kept Wedding SecretTelephone: 01767 626244Email: weddings@themansionhouse.orgWeb: www.themansionhouse.orgThe Mansion HouseOld Warden ParkOld WardenBedfordshire SG18 9DX