ISSUE 20: April 2013FREE

The Bedford Clanger Group page email: thebedfordclanger@gmail.com blog:thebedfordclanger.wordpress.com @bedfordclanger

For: music-lovers, culture-vultures, crafters, artists, makers, gardeners, traders, foodies, fashionistas

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

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Bedford’s

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By Natalie Mehl

Sometimes it takes a visitor to our town to point out the things that we take for granted.

Bedford BID recently re-ceived an email from German ex-pat Natalie Mehl who had come up with 10 reasons to love Bedford. How many of Natalie’s top 10 do you agree with? We love all of them!

Before arriving in Bedford in September 2012, I had heard this town was ugly and unattractive. Nonsense! Now, that I have lived here for almost six months I have come to my own conclusion that Bedford is charming, cosmopolitan and full of surprises. I love it dearly and here are my reasons:

1. It is the perfect size. Every day I meet new people but, in contrast to a big

city, I see them again.2. It has unique and very different coffee shops and international restaurants. Not like other towns where every venue is a chain.

3. I love Bedford for its passion for fresh food and markets.4. I love The Bedford Corn Exchange for its beautiful building and highly varied programme.5. Wow... Bedford’s embankment! I cannot wait to have a picnic on the riverside

in summer.6. Rose-tinted Vintage, The Kiln and Brooks make it worth spending the whole day in the centre.7. Two beautiful old churches, The (soon

to re-open) Higgins Art Gal-lery and The John Bunyan Museum enrich the town with culture.8. I love the Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra and Bedford Choral Society. Beautiful music! Simply beautiful.9. I have never been disap-pointed in The Place Theatre. Very innovative and highly professional drama.10. Bedford’s geographical location is amazing! London, Milton Keynes, Cambridge and Oxford – all within easy reach.Nevertheless, what really makes this town’s heart beat are its inhabitants. In my expe-

rience, people from Bedford are welcoming, vibrant, open-minded and they make me happy – every day.

Well, we couldn’t agree more.

April 2013THE BEDFORD CLANGER

2 “Ceci n’est pas une pipe”

UNIQUE BEDFORD

HOMETOWN TOURIST 10 REASONS WHy I lOVE BEDFORD

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•••Would you like to sponsor this column?••• The Bedford Clanger

is read by around 10,000 people.

If you’d like to promote your business to our readers then contact

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lETTEr From ThE EdiTor

hAppy EASTEr EvEryonE!

This month there’s plenty to keep you busy in Bedford. From Bedford BID’s town centre Easter Egg hunt to craft ac-tivities at the Library and from new kids on the block Drenge playing at Esquires to old hands, Chas & Dave, at the Corn Exchange. This variety and diversity is what makes up the DNA of our town.

We asked our Facebook friends what they thought contributed to making Bed-ford unique. Diversity was one of the most popular suggestions. I think it’s the people who make postitive things happen and have pride in our town, and there are more of them that you’d think.

We hope that each month The Bedford Clanger brings you the best of what Bed-ford’s DNA has to offer; there certainly is something for everyone!

Enjoy the start of Spring and see you next month.E x

HARRISON & SIMMONDS, 80 high Street, Bedford, mK40 1nn

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NOODlE NEWS!Clanger fave, noodle the dog, was among the winners at last month’s inaugural ‘Canines at the Kiosk’ photography contest.

Dog owners were invited to submit photos of their dogs to the lovely ladies at the Kiosk in Russell Park. Lorraine Lotan from Happy Dog Training in Clapham had the unenviable task of selecting the ‘Best in Show’. Join the Kiosk In the Park’s Face-book page for information on forthcoming events and competitions.

Pets Win Prizes

KNIT & NATTER AT BEdFord liBrAryJoin other crafters at Bedford Library’s ‘Knit & Natter’ sessions on the last Wednesday of every month. Everyone is welcome, so bring along your ‘work in progress’ knitting, crochet, patchwork or embroidery and share ideas with like-minded makers. This month’s session takes place on Wednesday 24 April from 2.30pm – 3.30pm. For further information contact Bed-ford Library on 01234 718178.

CrAFTEstablished in 1928, Harrison & Simmonds is a stalwart of Bedford high Street. it holds a place in the hearts of Bedfordians

and is probably one of the only places on Earth where you can buy tobacco, rosary beads and model cars all under one roof! Cousins Dominic and James now run the shop originally established by their grandfather and spoke to The Clanger about their unique ‘gentlemen’s emporium’…

The Bedford Clanger: As one of the oldest shops on the High Street, what is the secret to your longevity?Dominic Simmonds: I think we

can put our continuing existence down to diver-sifying and being willing to try new things when needed. There used to be a toy shop on the High Street and when they closed, the owner suggested we take on this new range of 1:18 scale classic cars. We did and that has grown into the wall of models we now have. My cousin Matthew took us onto the internet at the perfect point and our website is now essential to our continuing business.

BC: For those who haven’t stepped through your doors, how would you describe your shop?DS: We often joke that we sell “Big Boys Toys” and we have been called a gentle-

men’s emporium, I’m not sure which works better!

BC: How has the shop changed/diversi-fied over the last 85 years?DS: When our grandad took over the existing tobacconist in Bedford in 1928, everything was different. The well-to-do would place their orders and pay, and the goods would then be delivered to the houses later that day (to the servants’ entrance usually). During the war there was strict tobacco rationing and now we have many restrictions on how we display and promote such products. In a couple of years we may have to follow the supermarkets and hide our tobacco away. We are not officially a Tobacco Specialist because of the other things we now sell, but we do stock those products that are not available elsewhere and need to be able to suggest different things to our customers, something we may not be able to do much longer...

BC: Independent retailers are what make our town unique. What more could be done to support existing retailers and to encourage new shops to open?DS: This is a difficult one to answer as there

are many things that can be done, but to me the most important one is that the business stands out in some way, and can draw in custom-ers from a wide area. We are quite lucky as several Tobacconists have closed down over the years, in Bedford and Bedfordshire and beyond, and we still have a healthy mail order business with customers who we have supplied for many years all over the country. This is where our website has made such a difference, as it gives us access to so many people who have never visited Bedford! We also have one of the best selections of Havana Cigars outside of London

BC: Finally, describe Bedford in 3 words...DS: Diverse, Historic, Home.

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Attention everyone! TEDx, the phenomenally successful event format that shares ideas, is to be staged in Bedford this summer.TEDx is a conference program created by TED (Technology, Entertainment and Design) aimed at fostering ‘ideas worth spreading’ through local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. TEDxBedford is planned for June 15th. The ‘x’ stands for independently organized TED event, where TEDTalks videos and live speakers will combine to spark deep

discussion and connection in a small group.“We’re right in the middle of confirming the theme, the venue, the speakers, the sponsors…everything! The event is hap-

pening in June, so we have no time to lose,” said event directors Katye Judge and An-drew Nadin. “At the moment, we’re focused on raising awareness of what it is and how it will impact the people of Bedford. It’s a ticket only event, and we are limited to 100 tickets – so we’ll keep people informed of the event, the speakers and ticket availabil-ity via our website, TEDxBedford.com.” You can also follow their progress on twitter @TEDxBedford The larger, more global events, orga-nized by the parent organisation, TED, have been going since 1984. These annual TED conferences bring together some of the world’s most fascinating thinkers and doers, and this is what Kayte and Andrew hope to emulate in their local TEDxBedford program.

Want to know more about TED? TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading. Started as a four-day conference in California 26 years ago, TED has grown to support those world-changing ideas with multiple initiatives. At TED, the world’s leading thinkers and doers are asked to give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes. Talks are then made available, free, at TED.com. TED speakers have included Bill Gates, Jane Goodall, Elizabeth Gilbert, Sir Richard Branson, Benoit Mandelbrot, Philippe Starck, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Isa-bel Allende and former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Two major TED events are held each year: The TED Conference takes place every spring in on the West Coast (along with a parallel conference, TEDAc-tive), and TEDGlobal is held each summer in Edinburgh, Scotland.http://www.ted.com/registration

Follow TED on Twitter at http://twitter.com/TEDTalks, or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TED

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

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April 2013

TEDx COMES TO BEDFORD

our occasional series about life in Bedford’s villagesBy Lloyd Lugsden

On from Sharnbrook is Odell, a pictur-esque village distinguished by its winding, hilly main road and woods nearby. Leather and tanning factories were once a presence here, as with other neighbouring Beds/Northants villages. The 15th century church dominates and on some bank holidays there’s an opportunity to go up the tower – quite a mini adventure! I was guided up the ancient and steep spiral stone stairs. Not the nimblest, I used my hands to grapple my way up there. Once up there, I was rewarded with an excellent view of five counties. The church is connected to a local ghostly tale. An old baron, Sir Rowland

Alston, is said to have sold his soul to the devil himself. The baron fled into the church and the devil shook the tower with rage and apparently left his fingermarks in the church tower stone work. Have a look for them! Once every hundred years, the baron gallops through the village – he’s due next in 2044, if you’re about. Opposite the church is ‘the Castle’ - a grand house built on the site of the original Odell castle. The only pub remaining in the village is The Bell, a pretty old pub, with a garden near the river. Inside, it’s a pleasing warren of rooms, with three open fires roaring away in the winter. It’s popular with ramblers who start or finish there and often pass through

neighbouring Harrold/Odell country park. Further up the village is a house called ‘The Mad Dog’ named after the old pub, where certain schoolboys (ahem) would slope off for jacket potatoes there. The pub was named after the Hartell family who lived at the building before and the story is that they had found a cure for rabies – hence ‘The Mad Dog’.

GET OUT OF TOWN! ODEll

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We are open seven days a week and until 9pm on Wednesdays and

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We are launching a new treatment in April …….BRAziLiAN WAxiNG, at the introductory price of £22 for April only.

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By Gordon Charlton

The last 15 years has seen the decline of the small, independentrecord store. They couldn’t compete with the huge discounts given by the corporate record companies to the chain retailers like HMV, Asda, Tesco and Sainsbury’s. A friend of mine had a record shop in Borehamwood High Street and in the year before he closed it down it was cheaper for him to buy his stock at a discount from Woolworth’s rather than from the record companies themselves. However, as CD sales shrank, the big chain retailers got into trouble, culminating last year in HMV going into administration. There was virtually nowhere on the average British High Street to buy music. In a bid to counteract this decline, in 2008, the UK Entertainment Retailers Association followed its US Counterpart in starting a celebration of the independent music shop by announcing a UK Record Store Day. This year will see the 6th Record Store Day on Saturday April 20th, so I thought I’d pay a visit to the only surviving record store in Bedford, W:S Records on Mill Street and talk to its owner Paul Willsher. When I walked into the shop, it re-

minded me of every dance music record store I’ve ever been in. The walls are covered with racks of 12” vinyl records and posters for local dance music events. Any shelf space is taken up with extravagantly packaged dance music compilation CDs. The shop has just celebrated its 10th Anniversary. “When we opened there was only Just A Groove in Bedford selling Garage Music. We’ve always been Drum and Bass specialists,” said Paul. “We’ve kept with bass-heavy music like Drum and Bass and Dubstep as that’s the stuff that keeps getting pressed onto vinyl, because it sounds better on vinyl” However, Paul admits that in these trying economic times, most of his business comes from online sales rather than from people coming into the shop.

In the true spirit of a small businessman, he’s grown his business by buying other people’s vinyl record collections and selling them on the shop’s website (www.wsre-cords.com and www.discogs.com/seller/djburner) “If anyone comes in the shop, it’s a bonus,” he said. “Now I’ve started giving people cash for their old vinyl, I’ve got much more stock than I can keep in the shop. I’ve even been selling records from the 1930s!”

Paul will be celebrating Record Shop Day with some limited edition releases so make sure you pop in on 20th April.W:S Records, Mill Street, Bedford, MK40 3EU tel: 01234 266244

mUSiCWORlD RECORD SHOP DAy AT W:S REcORDS

Paul Willsher: Get Into The Groove

Who would be your dream speaker at TEDx?

You may remember that we recently reported that The Burnaby Arms on Stanley Street had been awarded a music makeover grant by PRS for Music. Well, at the end of March landlord and landlady Steve and Lucie unveiled the

brand new sound equipment they acquired and celebrated the occasion with special guests including The Wholls, Cicero Buck and Dave the Mayor. Said Lucie, “Providing musicians with a venue where they can ‘plug in and play’ means we can attract not only established acts but also those starting out on their musical journey. There is a strong music scene in Bedford and we are really looking forward to establishing ourselves as a ‘must play’ venue in the future.”

mUSiCTHE BURNABy ARMS TUrnS iT Up To 11

The Burnaby: Making All The Right Noises

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

4 Don’t forget to watch John Hegley & His Fools at The Place on April 1st.

Is read by around 10,000 peopleIf you’d like to promote your business to our readers then contact

Gemma Rogers on 07799067052

email:bedfordclangerads@gmail.com @clangerads

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

OUR TOWN

April 2013

If you use Facebook and love Bedford, then the chances are you have come across the loving Bedford page.

With upwards of 2,500 ‘likes’, the page has captured the hearts of its members and has become the place to share images and memories of Bedford. If you aren’t already a fan, then make sure you check it out as it is a wonderful interactive archive of our town. Here, Lov-ing Bedford’s administrator tells us about the inspiration for the page. The idea of creating Loving Bedford came when I couldn’t postpone any longer the fact that I needed to explore the town I am going to call home now. So I started to make a virtual tour. It didn’t take me long to realise that by creating a Facebook page it would help me to keep all the

information found in one place and at the same time all gained information could serve others in the future. As part of the project I also plan to talk to the people who have lived in Bedford for many years and to make my own photo album of daily life of Bedford. At the beginning I thought there would be a few people - expats just like me - who would share their baby steps as the newbies in Bedford , but the list of people who liked my page was growing every day and soon exceeded 2500 readers. The page has evolved into a discus-sion board, a place where people find old friends, bring up memories and discuss the current issues of the town. I am in the

process of organising all the posted pictures into folders so that new visitors can find things more easily. I never feel like taking the credit for Loving Bedford FB success when someone compli-ments me as it’s the contribution of everyone who participates in its existence through posting. There are so many wonderful

people checking in every day, commenting with such precious information and adding pictures you won’t find in books. If you live in Bedford, it’s a great source of interactive local history and many former resi-dents access the page from as far afield as Canada, USA, Australia etc. I must say a big thank you

to all who collected the information of Bedford and uploaded it onto the Internet for us to share. Big thanks to Bedfordshire Borough Council and Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire Virtual Library, to all photographers who released their pictures and facts into the public domain, and all collectors. I invite everyone to share your memories and stories of Bedford. Write what you like to see in Bedford more, post what you think keeps the ‘Spirit of Loving Bedford’ alive, add your own precious stories, sug-gestions and find lots of interesting stuff about your local past, present and future. Keep connected via Loving Bedford and remember that it’s a place for raising the positive attitude to your town!

lOVING BEDFORD

CORN006_13 design@bedford.gov.uk

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Children of all ages swamped the Bedford branch of Waterstones for the first BookTastic events onSaturday, 9th March.

The two book-club-for-kids style sessions, timed to coincide with World Book Day, were created by a group of local book-lov-ers and organised by Rachael Rogan, who felt a driving urge to pass on this passion to the next generation. Fortunately, this zeal was not taken for some form of mania, but instead was embraced by the good folks of Bedford, who bought tickets online or in Waterstones.

Children came pouring in and, after navigating their way through Waterstones’ hidden maze of corridors, were greeted by a colourful, cosy reading room and an arts and crafts area ready and waiting to be turned upside down and littered with paper and colour. The books – Julia Donaldson’s Paper Dolls, John Hegley’s Stanley’s Stick and the epic How to Train your Dragon, by Cressida Cowell – were chosen for their imagina-tive style and beautiful illustraions, which created a springboard for animated discus-sion and frantic crafting sessions. Helped by

local illustrator Kitty Dinners, the children produced their very own paper dolls, decorated book-marks and invented and drew their own dragons. The event also highlighted what a

brilliant selection of childrens’ books are available at Waterstones, and how enthu-siastic and dedicated the staff there are to engaging with children and young readers. The inaugural BookTastic was deemed a success, and many more shall follow… Any thoughts? Tell us where you think the next session should be!booktasticbedford@gmail.com

BEDFORD KIDS GET BOOKTASTIC!cHILDREN’S BOOKS

THE D.N.A. OF BEDFORDThis month we wanted to find out what makes up the dnA of our town; what makes Bedford unique.

Since we discovered the Lov-ing Bedford Facebook page it has become obvious that Bedfordians are proud of the rich history of our town and are keen to share their memories, pictures and stories with others. But it’s not just bricks and mortar that make a place special. As you can see from the pages of each month’s Bedford Clanger, it is more often than not the people who are making a difference in our town and I would argue that it is the diversity, dedication and pride of a small number of people that make big things happen and make Bedford a great place to live. But what do you think? We asked our friends on Facebook what they thought made up Bedford’s DNA and here’s what they had to say:

“I love that it’s changing. There

is an undercurrent of creativity and new business bubbling up and making people stay in Bedford. Art shows, live music, events, theatre, kids’ activities, it’s all starting to really take shape. Great cafes, pubs and shops pop-ping up everywhere. If you don’t get stuck in and join the move-ment, then you’re missing out!” Kris Wilkinson Hughes, singer/

songwriter/entrepreneur(Cicero Buck/The Frogs’ Chorus/Ruby Falls Brunch Club)

“L’italiano.” Neeraj Nagarkatti

“The Ouse; Laxtons; Bunyan; How-ard; Huddleston; Cardington hangars ... for starters!” Jane Perrone

“Bedford’s multiculturalism, and variety of places of worship.” Jo Midgely

“Definitely the multiculturalism, anyone who visits is always so complimentary of

the influence different cultures and heritages have on the town.

I also believe the community feel and passion of the people here plays a massive part in how excellent Bedford is.

There is something happening every week - it might not always be something you’re in-terested in but the argument there is nothing

to do is simply invalid and that’s what makes this town great.

There is comedy, theatre, film, food, drink, parties, fun, coffee, cake, sport, dancing, art, music, smiles, hugs, shopping, charity, support, networking, literature,

news, nature, and hospitality! And it’s all because of the people who live here.

So to sum up - I’d say the DNA of Bedford is its people. We’re the reason our town is great.” Paul Hutchinson

“Bedford Embankment, Bedford Harriers” Sarah Wanden

“The River Festival, Lazy Sunday (years gone by), Cecil Higgins, Bedford Park, Russell Park, Robinson Pool, Goldings, The Bear, Esquires, Corn Exchange, Library: all quite obvious ones I know but still impor-tant.” Sonja Short

“The Wellington Arms, Bedford Esquires, Pearl Handled Revolver, Filthy Visuals, The Bedford Clanger (ooh, thanks! – Ed), Bedford River Festival to name but a few.” Esquires

EASTER AT THE lIBRARy

Easter and Springtime story and arts and craft events are taking place at libraries around Bedford this month; on 5th April between 2.30 and 4pm at Putnoe Library and on 9th April between 11am and noon at Kempston Library. At Bedford Central Library, Captain

Underpants is the theme on Tuesday 9th April from 11am til midday. Listen to the story and then take part in pants related crafts and activities. On Saturday 20th April, it’s all about Winnie the Pooh at Kempston Library. Activities are between 11am and noon.

Find out more about what’s on at the library this month at: www.bedford.gov.uk

A must for C&d fans, this show will be the whole history of chas & Dave, marking Dave’s return to the stage following his recent retirement.Chas & Dave began writing and perform-ing songs together in 1972, having been friends since the early sixties. They reached the top twenty in 1979 with “Gertcha”,

which became a nationwide catchphrase. This was followed by “The Sideboard Song”. In 1980 they hit the charts with “Rabbit”, which reached No. 8 in the charts and a No. 2 record in 1982 with “Ain’t No Pleasing You”. And who could forget “Snooker Loopy”? Chas ‘n’ Dave are great musicians and know how to give an audience a good time. They have gained a cult audience of both young and old and due to public demand they are about to be seen together on stage once more. The last time Chas & Dave vis-ited the Corn Exchange it was a fully sold

show in advance, early purchase of tickets is advised.

Support comes from those naughty Ouse Valley Singles Club boys (and girl) with their mix of comedy and skiffle.

THIS SHOW WILL BE UNRESERVED SEATING AND UNRESERVED STAND-ING FOR A PROPER SATURDAY NIGHT KNEES UPTickets are on sale from the Corn Exchange Box Office priced £21.50.

By Lloyd Lugsden

Bedford is to be graced with the presence of true punk legends, from the US, The Misfits.They’ll be at the Corn Exchange on Mon-day, 8th April. Emerging from the Hardcore scene in the late 70’s, they carved out their own genre, fusing Rock ‘n’ Roll, Punk & Metal, all to a backdrop of horror. With their trademark ghoulish look and logo, they have a huge cult following (the fiend club). A band for bands, Misfits have influenced everyone from Metallica to Henry Rollins. This special show has the punk icing (gob?) on the cake, with Bedford’s own Sick On The Bus – Legends in their own right. The Clanger were thrilled (literally) to have the chance to talk to original member Jerry Only.

What were you doing at Horror conven-tion this weekend?J: Mainly meeting the fans – it was really good. A lot of ‘Walking Dead’ stuff there this year, which is great. We’d like to start playing at these conventions too eventu-

ally...How do you imag-ine the market town of Bedford?J: We’ve played there! We did a tour in ‘78, with The Damned...What musical influences as a youth inspired you to form a band?J: Moms 45s, oldies; Jerry Lee Lewis, Buddy Holly, Little Richard. By the time The Ramones hit the scene, that was when I started up a band. Can you recommend any books?J: I don’t really read but my daughter’s in 1st grade, she likes fairy tale stuff. There’s one book called, ‘Punk Farm’ which she really likes.Favourite horror film?J: The old black and white classics, plus Night of the Living Dead, The Exorcist. More recently I’ve been into the Marvel films, Iron Man, The Avengers. I took my daughter to see Oz the Great & Almighty recently.Favourite British punk bands?

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

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in association with

Bedford Borough council’s Premier Entertainment venue

ThE l I S T I N GGetting out and About in Bedford This April

THE MISFITS AT ThE Corn ExChAnGEmUSiC

Chaz and Dave are back!

April 2013

local lads Pearl Handled Revolver are set to release their hotly anticipated second album. ‘This Mountain Waits’ this month and are marking the occasion with an exclusive gig at St Cuthbert’s Hall on Saturday 13th April. The band, who have earned a formi-dable reputation for their high energy live performances accompanied by psychedelic light shows and extravagant video projec-tions, always put on a great show. However, with a new album in the can they are in the mood for celebrating and will be pulling out all the stops to make this a night to remem-ber and definitely one not to be missed! ‘This Mountain Waits’ follows hot on the heels of their debut album ‘Colossus’, which was released just twelve months ago and garnered critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic for its adventurous, leftfield take on rock and blues music. A series of short video trailers for the new material, offering a tantalising glimpse of their potent blend of psychedelic rock, heavy blues and

warped experimental electronics, have been posted on their website (www.pearlhandle-drevolver.com) and suggest that the new album is a big leap forward for the Bed-fordshire boys, who are signed to American record label King Mojo Records. The album is released worldwide on 16th April but ticket holders for the album launch event on the 13th won’t just be the first to hear the new tracks performed live,

they will also receive a complimentary copy of ‘This Mountain Waits’ on the night! As if that wasn’t incentive enough, Pearl Handled Revolver will be supported by special guest Del Bromham. Tickets for the album launch are available via the band’s website (www.pearlhandledrevolver.com), priced £10 and are selling fast, so book soon to avoid disappointment.

PEARl HANDlED REVOlVER – NEW ALBUM!

Pearly Kings of Psyche

irish punk pioneers, Stiff little Fingers, are playing at Bedford cornExchange this month as part of their ‘Up A Gear’ tour. Originally formed in 1977 in Belfast, Stiff Little Fingers were at the forefront of the punk movement. SLF’s signature style comprises lyrics that meld the personal and political, music that combines the energy of punk with infectious hooks, and delivery that rings of honesty and commitment. In 1979 they became the first band ever to hit the UK top 20 album charts on an indepen-dent label with their debut LP Inflammable Material. The album chronicles the band’s anger and frustration at “the Troubles” in Northern Ireland, and calls on youth to create their own reality. The band split in early ‘83, reforming

just five years later and finding themselves playing to sell-out crowds larger than any that SLF had played in their original incar-nation. Their following has continued to grow, with younger “new” fans alongside the old diehards. Although the band play some new material, they always play the old favourites at gigs including Nobody’s Hero, Tin Soldiers, Gotta Gettaway, Sus-pect Device and Alternative Ulster. Support comes from Ed Tudor Pole, the famed front man of Tenpole Tudor and Channel 4’s Crystal Maze presenter who first came to prominence in the Sex Pistols classic film ‘The Great Rock & Roll Swindle’ with the classic Who Killed Bambi? The band had numerous hits in the early 80’s including Wunderbar, Throwing My Baby Out With The Bath Water and the classic Swords Of A Thousand Men. Tickets are on sale priced £17 advance available from the Corn Exchange Box Office and Seetickets online, doors open 7.30pm

STIFF lITTlE FINGERS livE @ BEdFord Corn ExChAnGEWEDNESDAY 3RD APRIL 2013

Stiff little Fingers

J: The Damned, Sham 69, UK Subs, the metal too, I’m a big fan of Iron Maiden and Judas Priest.

Are you familiar with Sick on the Bus, the support for the Bedford show? J: My older son checks out the new bands and keeps me informed. Though a lot of the time I’m 2 hours in make-up beforehand, so end up missing them...(I reassure him that ‘The Bus’ are a great punk band...)Most interesting country you’ve played? J: We’ve played all over, a lot of crazy places. I’d say El Salvador. There was one place, it may have been Haiti? Where they didn’t like our make up, thought it was disrespecting the dead –

there was a threat to blow up the venue we were playing! We also played Ecuador near the Equator; hot, right? We’d just packed trunks & t-shirts and it was freezing there! Anyone you want to work with?J: Madonna! (laughs loudly) Actually, Lady Ga Ga and I share the same vocal coach, when she broke her hip, we gave her a load of our toys.Are you looking forward to going on the road again?J: Yeah, though it’s not all glamour, there’s the times when you end up eating worms.There’s never been a better reason to step out on a Monday night!

CHAS & DAVE: ‘BAcK ON THE ROAD 2013’Bedford corn Exchange, Saturday 27th April

chas ‘n’ Dave

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

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Bedford Borough council’s Premier Entertainment venue

ThE l I S T I N G

Bedford Corn Exchange Box office: 01234 269519 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk ComEdy CominG Soon: JUlIAN ClARy - POSITION VACANT: APPly WITHIN 9Th mAy 2013

Monday 1st april •••••••••••••••••••••Artist of the MonthBedford born Hemant Jariwala specialises in botanical, garden and landscape photography in his own individual style whose work has been published internationally. Event runs throughout April at the Art Centre & Gallery, Howard Street, Bedford. www.artcentre.biz•Beginners Workshops & Courses for Watercolours & Jewellery MakingRunning throughout April with expert tutors. For further information and enrolment please contact the Art Centre & Gallery, Howard Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 344784 www.artcentre.biz info@artcentre.biz•RSPB Easter Hunt TrailFollow the Easter Trail, spot all of the pictures hidden in the woodland and receive a Creme Egg when you finish! Trail sheet £2, parking £4 for non-RSPB members. 10am-3pm. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Forest Centre Easter Trail Enjoy Easter in the great outdoors with this fun, quiz trail at the Marston Vale Forest Centre. Every entrant gets a prize, £2 per child, 11am-4pm. The Lakeside Café will be open for lunch. Tel: 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org•All Saints Church Café Drop in to the All Saints Church Café to sample their range of cakes and cookies to go with your favourite cuppa. The tower will be open and the views are well worth the climb. Trips up the tower £3 adults, £1 children (11-15yrs). 2.30-5.30pm at All Saints Church, Odell. Tel: 01933 410959 www.kbnet.co.uk/odell•Festival of Power at Santa PodAn action-packed weekend of family entertainment at Santa Pod with top fuel dragster and funny car shoot out, national drag racing, jet cars, monster trucks and stunts. 8am-6pm, tickets from £19, kids under 16 go free (max 3 per adult). Santa Pod, Airfield Road, Podington, Welling-borough, Northants. Tel: 01234 782828 www.santapod.com•Hatha Yoga ClassA full hour of Hatha yoga including gentle stretching and yoga postures, basic breathing techniques and relaxation. Starts 6.30pm at Bedford Athletic Stadium, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•John Hegley & His April Fools An evening of barely controlled madness featuring a cor-nucopia of poetry, music, spoken word and comedy. Starts 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bed-ford Arms, Bromham Rd, BedfordTel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Tony’s General Knowledge QuizThe King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Open Mic NightHosted by local singer/songwriter Matt Roberts, 8.30pm til close. Just listen or join in!The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

tuesday 2nd april ••••••••••••••••••••Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise £3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Art Adventurer’s Garden Creatures WorkshopArt and Craft Club for children aged 4-9 years old, focusing on garden creatures. Open 10am-12pm, £6.50 per child (including a snack). The Old School, Dunstable Road, Flitwick.Tel: 01525 635823 karen@artadventurers.com www.artadventurers.com•ME/Chronic Fatigue Yoga ClassA specific class aimed at those with or who have had ME/Chronic Fatigue. Session includes gentle postures, pranayama/breath work and long relaxation/meditation. Starts 6.15pm at The Quaker Meeting House, Lansdowne Road, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Karaoke & CocktailsDanny’s Bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Old Geezer BandAffectionately known as The Fiddly-diddlies! Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington Arms

Wellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Wednesday 3rd april •••••••••••••••Art Adventurer’s Garden Creatures WorkshopSee 2nd April. www.artadventurers.com•Intermediate Yoga ClassA stronger class aimed at those who have been practising yoga for over a year or longer. Session includes posture work, pranayama and relaxation with a gradual focus toward meditation and mudra work. Starts 6.15pm at Put-noe Heights Church, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•The Half Theatre Tours International presents Richard Dormer’s brilliant comedy. A 50 year old actor, down on his luck, attempts to reverse his fortunes by doing a one man Shake-speare show. Starts 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Friends for Life Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Bedford Rock ChoirThe UK’s largest, amateur contemporary choir. No scary auditions and no need to read music or have any experi-ence. Try a session for free. Tickets £100 per term, 8pm start at The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•The Biggest Jam Night in TownHuge open mic night in Danny’s Bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Beer Tasting ClubTasting a range of bottled ales and discussing their merits. Please register your interest with Bev.From 8pm, The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

thursday 4th april •••••••••••••••••••Bird Watching at the RSPBEnjoy the birds on view while testing out the latest bin-oculars and telescopes. An expert will be on hand to assist. 10am-4pm. Free admission. The RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Army Ancestry TalkLearn about researching family history with Nigel Lutt. 11am-12pm, free admission. Marston Vale Forest Centre. Tel: 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org•Americana @ AndaluzDanni Nicholls presents the best from local, national and international artists, starting at 7.30pm at Andaluz Café on Castle Road. Tel 0791 3342654•The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists A Townsend Production following a group of painters and decorators struggling for survival in a stagnating Edward-ian England. This moving and funny tale remains as vivid and as relevant as when it was written almost a century ago. Starts 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Creative Bedfordshire Network MeetingMeet other creative professionals from the area. 7-9pm, free entry, venue tbc. www.bedfordcreativearts.org.uk/index.php/events info@bedfordcreativearts.org.uk•Filthy Visuals EP2 Launch PartyLive music in Holy Moly’s from 8pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Jam Night with Mat RobertsLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Traditional Music SessionJoin in this monthly folk jam, 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

Friday 5th april •••••••••••••••••••••••Bedford Art Society MeetingPresenting a talk by Julia Sorrell on father and daughter relationships, in art and between artists. Julia is the daughter of the late Alan Sorrell, also an artist. 7.30pm start, admission free to members, £5 for visitors at Putnoe Heights Church. Tel Jean Paterson: 01234 307210 www.bedsartsociety.co.uk•In Extremis Why did one of the most celebrated men of the nineteenth century go to a complete stranger for advice when his life was at a critical turning point? That’s the intriguing ques-tion posed by Kean Productions about poet and playwright Oscar Wilde. This production meets Wilde just before the start of his infamous libel case. Starts 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Karaoke with Diamond Fire8pm, The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Vintage Movie NightShowing the all time favourite, Singin’ in the Rain. Comfy sofas set up cinema style, coffee, cakes plus sweet and salty popcorn. Free entry. 7.30pm for 8.00pm start. Ground Floor Coffee Shop, Kings House, 245 Ampthill Road, Bed-ford. Tel: 07561 340593 Email: events@groundfloorcof-fee.co.uk www.groundfloorcoffee.co.uk•Exec Club Karaoke9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

saturday 6th april •••••••••••••••••••West End Wendies Theatre WorkshopsTake part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford.

www.westendwendies.com•Bedford Crafts, Produce & CuppaBrowse the fabulous Bedfordian handmade items and locally produced foods whilst enjoying a cuppa (your first is free!) and a piece of cake at Church Lane Community Centre (opposite Aldi) every first Saturday of the month, 9am-2pm. This month there will be a free colouring competition.contact@loveofcupcakes.co.uk www.bedford.gov.uk/com-munity_and_living/community_centres•Guided Walk - Medicinal & Edible PlantsA guided walk in the beautiful Maulden Woods. Learn about the different plants that you can eat or that are ben-eficial to you. Light refreshments served at the end. 2-4pm. www.faithwoodlands.org.uk fwc.bedford@gmail.com•An Evening with Joe CalzagheAn evening with the legendary and undefeated World boxing champion plus special guest Britain’s Got Talent finalist Julian Smith. Tickets including 3 course meal from £65. Doors 6pm for 6.15pm. Strict dress code: lounge suits. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Of-fice: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Speak & Spell (Depeche Mode Tribute)+Shiny Darkness+Sudden CreationLive music on the main stage from 8pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•True Faith – The Best 80s Night EverClub night in Holy Moly’s from 10.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Fat Lads’ DiscoHosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500•Loaded Clubnight @ The PadIndie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3-am, free entry before midnight.07860 454530 http://www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnight-club

sunday 7th april ••••••••••••••••••••••Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Books, Maps & Ephemera AuctionThis specialist auction includes sports books, travel and to-pography, aviation and military, maps and prints, children’s books, modern first editions and historical documents. Free admission. Entry from 3pm at Bedford Auction Centre. Tel: 01234 266366 www.peacockauction.co.uk•Animal Farm Guy Masterson’s magnificent solo performance of Orwell’s classic satire on its final UK tour uses nothing but a bale of hay, some amazing sound effects and brilliant physical and vocal dexterity. Starts 4pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Tie One OnLive music in the bar from 4.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The NimblewitsLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Jon’s Music QuizUp to £300 prize money! The King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukMonday 8th april ••••••••••••••••••••Hatha Yoga ClassA full hour of Hatha yoga including gentle stretching and yoga postures, basic breathing techniques and relaxation. Starts 6.30pm at Bedford Athletic Stadium, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•The Bedford Film Society: We need to talk about KevinThe Bedford Film Society presents We need to talk about Kevin. Kevin is a disturbed child and youth whose mother struggles in her relationship with him. He commits an act which shocks the community, leaving his mother to struggle with her feelings of grief and responsibility. 8pm start. £4 for guest/evening membership. Trinity Arts and Leisure Theatre, Bromham Road, Bedford www.bedford-filmsociety.org.uk•Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Tony’s General Knowledge QuizThe King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Open Mic NightHosted by local singer/songwriter Matt Roberts, 8.30pm til close. Just listen or join in. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

tuesday 9th april •••••••••••••••••••••Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise £3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Toys & Childhood Memorabilia AuctionThe Bedford Auction Centre’s toys and childhood memorabilia sales provides a real trip down memory lane. This auction includes a fascinating mix of dolls, teddy bears, tinplate and other toys from the 19th Century. From 10.30am. Bedford Auction Centre. Tel: 01234 266366 www.peacockauction.co.uk•ME/Chronic Fatigue Yoga ClassA specific class aimed at those with or who have had ME/Chronic Fatigue. Session includes gentle postures, pranayama/breath work and long relaxation/meditation.

Starts 6.15pm at The Quaker Meeting House, Lansdowne Road, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Karaoke & CocktailsDanny’s Bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Old Geezer BandAffectionately known as The Fiddly-diddlies! Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington ArmsWellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Wednesday 10th april ••••••••••••••Illustrated Archaeological Talk An illustrated talk by Steve Coleman on the archaeol-ogy and historic landscape of Bedfordshire’s Greensand Ridge. 7.30pm start at Putnoe Heights Church. www.baalhs.org.uk•Illustrated Talk: Wild OrchidsAn illustrated talk by former Bedfordshire Reserves Manager Graham Bellamy. £2 voluntary contribution sug-gested. 7.30pm start at Priory Park Visitor Centre, Barkers Lane, BedfordTel Chris Wedge: 01234 266057 www.wildlifebcn.org•Intermediate Yoga ClassA stronger class aimed at those who have been practising yoga for over a year or longer. Session includes posture work, pranayama and relaxation with a gradual focus toward meditation and mudra work. Starts 6.15pm at Put-noe Heights Church, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Bedford Rock ChoirThe UK’s largest, amateur contemporary choir. No scary auditions and no need to read music or have any experi-ence. Try a session for free. Tickets £100 per term, 8pm start at The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•RSPCA Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Tea DanceA pleasant afternoon in elegant surroundings. Ballroom, Latin American, Sequence Dances, Party Dances & Old Time. Price includes refreshments. Tickets £3.50 (advance), £4.00 (on the day), starts 2.00pm. Main Auditorium & Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Sean Lock - Purple Van ManThis is Sean Lock doing what he does best, spouting inspired jibber jabber as he crosses the country in his purple van. He will make you laugh like a drunken horse. Age limit 15+, must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets £21.00, starts 8.00pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•The Biggest Jam Night in TownHuge open mic night in Danny’s Bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Stitch ‘n BitchBring any crafty project to The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd, 7.30pm. beverlyjoburridge@gmail.com Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

thursday 11th april •••••••••••••••••Art Adventurer’s Garden Creatures WorkshopArt and Craft Club for children aged 4-9 years old focus-ing on garden creatures. 10am-12pm, £6.50 per child (including a snack). Advance booking only. Cauldwell Community Centre, Althorp Street, Bedford. Tel: 01525 635823 karen@artadventurers.com www.artadventurers.com•Alex Holmes+The Ages+PalahniukLive music in the bar from 7.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Acousticake8 - 11pm @The Burnaby ArmsAcousticake presents a rare acoustic performance by localexperimenters Grubby Mitts, with special guest Ricky Leach. Free entry•The Pad Presents Drenge+Blood Sport+GuestsLive music on the main stage from 7.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Carducci QuartetThe prize-winning Anglo-Irish Carducci Quartet perform music by Mozart, Shostakovich and Beethoven. Tickets £18 adults, £16 concessions, £5 students (18-25yrs), £2 children. Starts 7.45pm at the Bunyan Meeting Free Church. Tel: 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk•Escher String QuartetFeaturing Quartets by Mozart, Britten and Dvořák. Tickets £18 adults, £16 concessions, £5 students (18-25yrs) £2 under 18s (£1.50 transaction fee). Starts 7.45pm at the Bu-nyan Meeting Free Church. Tel: 01234 261811 or 269519 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk•The Bedford Arms Book ClubDiscussing The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern. Open to all at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Road. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Jam Night with Mat RobertsLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Riding for the Disabled Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Friday 12th april •••••••••••••••••••••The Bedford Auction Centre Valuation DayThe centre’s team of valuers can advise on all antique or collectable items. Entries are invited for the specialist sales of antiques, jewellery, 20th century design, rock & pop and memories of childhood. 10am-4pm at the Bedford Auction Centre. Tel: 01234 266366 www.peacockauction.co.uk•Art Adventurer’s Garden Creatures WorkshopSee 11th April. www.artadventurers.com•Steve Conte+The Crazy Truth+Genna Marabese+Long John Laundry+The Broadway

TwistersLive music on the main stage from 7.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Forty Years of ShowaddywaddyAfter 40 incredible years and over 50 Top of the Pops performances, rock n roll music is truly alive and kicking in the hands of this amazing band. Tickets £17.50, starts 8.00pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Vinyl Revival NightDust off those LPs and singles and come to play them at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd from 8pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Exec Club Karaoke9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

saturday 13th april •••••••••••••••••West End Wendies Theatre WorkshopsTake part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www.westendwendies.com•Free Cardmaking Demonstration10am-4pm with Tutor Jenny Stewart. 10% off cardmaking materials on the day. Sponsored by Docraft at the Art Cen-tre & Gallery, Howard Street, Bedford. www.artcentre.biz•Panacea Museum & Gardens Open DayFind out about the history of this unique religious society that existed until recently in Bedford. View The Members’ Chapel and clock tower, the Founder’s House, an exhibi-tion at Castleside and the Panacea gardens. Free admis-sion, 10.30am-4.30pm. The Panacea Museum, 9 Newnham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 353178 museum@panacea-society.org•Toys & Childhood Memorabilia AuctionSee 9th April. www.peacockauction.co.uk•The Scruff+The Jebs+Gamble Street+Michael HuntLive music on the main stage from 7.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Nigel & Sue’s Ruby Wedding Anniversary PartyEveryone is invited to celebrate with Nigel and Sue. Free buffet from 8pm plus live music from The Mental Elves. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Fat Lads’ DiscoHosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500•Loaded Clubnight @ The PadIndie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3-am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclub

sunday 14th april •••••••••••••••••••••Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•The King BeesLive music in the bar from 4.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Jon’s Music QuizUp to £300 prize money! The King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Acoustic Antics with CarlosLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Monday 15th april •••••••••••••••••••Hatha Yoga ClassA full hour of Hatha yoga including gentle stretching and yoga postures, basic breathing techniques and relaxation. Starts 6.30pm at Bedford Athletic Stadium, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Tony’s General Knowledge QuizThe King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Open Mic NightHosted by local singer/songwriter Matt Roberts, 8.30pm til close. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

tuesday 16th april •••••••••••••••••••Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise £3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Bedford National Trust Association MeetingMembers and non-members welcome, featuring a talk by Michael Sutherland. £2 for members, £3 for non members. 2pm for 2.30pm start at the Addison Centre, Kempston, Bedford. Tel: 01480 860439•ME/Chronic Fatigue Yoga ClassA specific class aimed at those with or who have had ME/Chronic Fatigue. Session includes gentle postures, pranayama/breath work and long relaxation/meditation. Starts 6.15pm at The Quaker Meeting House, Lansdowne Road, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Sweeney Todd ShowCo Bedford Marianettes present the Sondheim musical, Sweeney Todd, the barber whose thirst for blood soon expands to include his unfortunate customers. Starts 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Milton Jones: On the RoadIf you like the stuff he’s done on Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo or in any of the nine radio series he’s done for Radio 4, then this is the show for you. Clever, surreal but mainly just stupid, stupid, stupid. He’s won awards you know. Tickets £20.00, starts 8.00pm in the Main Au-

April 2013

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

7Bedford Corn Exchange Box office: 01234 269519 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk ComEdy CominG Soon: JUlIAN ClARy - POSITION VACANT: APPly WITHIN 9Th mAy 2013

ditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Karaoke & CocktailsDanny’s Bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Old Geezer BandAffectionately known as The Fiddly-diddlies! Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington ArmsWellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Wednesday 17th april ••••••••••••••Intermediate Yoga ClassA stronger class aimed at those who have been practising yoga for over a year or longer. Session includes posture work, pranayama and relaxation with a gradual focus to-ward meditation and mudra work. Starts 6.15pm at Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Bedford Rock ChoirThe UK’s largest, amateur contemporary choir. No scary auditions and no need to read music or have any experi-ence. Try a session for free. Tickets £100 per term, 8pm start at The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•CaravaggioAn event brought to you by Bedford Italian Society. Starts at 8pm at The Chapter House, St Peter de Merton Church, De Parys Avenue •Talking Newspapers Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Sweeney ToddSee 16th April. www.theplacebedford.org.uk•The Biggest Jam Night in TownHuge open mic night in Danny’s Bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Beer Tasting ClubTasting a range of bottled ales and discussing their merits. Please register your interest with Bev.From 8pm, The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

thursday 18th april •••••••••••••••••Archives TalkA free lunchtime talk with expert speaker Nigel Lutt about the local area’s historical archives. 11am-12noon at the Marston Vale Forest Centre. Tel: 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org•Poetry & Spoken Word Open Mic - Ouse MuseOpen mic night from 8pm in the cellar bar at Harpurs, Tav-istock St, Bedford. Special joint session with the Circus of Illustration. Always slots for performers, sign up on the door or contact ian.mcewen@ntlworld.com, £2 for readers/drawers, £3 for just listening.•Sweeney Todd See 16th April. www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Jam Night with Mat RobertsLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732

Friday 19th april •••••••••••••••••••••Marcus Brigstocke: The Brig SocietyNo less than the total restructuring of every aspect of life in Britain organised through the medium of jokes. See this show to win a free hospital or school; second prize - a major High St bank. Age limit 15+, must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets £15.00, starts 8.00pm in the Main Au-ditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Sweeney Todd See 16th April. www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Acoda+Gold Skies Ahead+Dirty ParléLive music on the main stage from 7.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Bedford Acoustic TrioLocal live music and coffee at The Ground Floor Coffee Shop. Tickets £5 on the door, doors 8pm. Kings House, 245 Ampthill Road, Bedford. Tel: 07561 340593 Email: events@groundfloorcoffee.co.uk www.groundfloorcoffee.co.uk•RiffLive music in the bar from 8.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Exec Club Karaoke9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500•Karaoke with Diamond Fire8pm, The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

saturday 20th april •••••••••••••••••West End Wendies Theatre WorkshopsTake part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www.westendwendies.com•Intune Vocal WorkshopsTwo workshops exploring different uses of the voice from classical to contemporary, through jazz, world music and pop, with Aga Serugo-Lugo from InTune.Whether you’re a complete beginner or a trained singer, the focus is on exploration, inclusivity and the accessibility of music. It’s a great opurtunity to meet the Bedford Arts Choir and get a taste for what we do. Feel free to come to one or both sessions. 10am-1pm & 2-5pm at St Cuthbert’s Hall, Newnham Street, Bedford. Free entry.•Benefit DanceDJs David and Viv play all the well known ballroom, latin and sequence dances. Licensed bar and hot drinks available but bring your own snacks. Reservations recommended for larger groups. Tickets on the door, £5 per person. 8-11.30pm, doors 7.15pm, free parking. The Addison Centre, Bedford Road, Kempston. Tel: 01234 300179 www.MelodyMagic.co.uk•From the Jam - St. George’s Day FestFeaturing Bruce Foxton from the original Jam line up and

Stiff Little Fingers, joined by Russell Hastings and Mark Brzezicki, former Big Country and Cult drummer. Sup-port comes from The Ska Masters. Tickets £20.00, starts 8.00pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Sweeney Todd See 16th April. www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Our Kind of MusicDJs Matt, Jay and Alex play Soul/funk/house from the 70s onwards from 9pm til late at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•RecoverLive music from 9pm at The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Fat Lads’ DiscoHosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500•Loaded Clubnight @ The PadIndie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclub

sunday 21st april •••••••••••••••••••••Kathy Brown’s Garden Open DayBulbs and blossoms for the National Garden Scheme Charities plus children’s gardening session. 12-5pm, £4.50 entry, free entry for accompanied children. Tea, plants, honey, signed books and recipe cards available. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic. Kathy Brown’s Garden is at The Manor House, Church Road, Stevington. Tel: 01234 822064 www.kathybrownsgarden.homestead.com info@kathybrownsgarden.com•Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Thr3eLive music in the bar from 4.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Explosion 5East Area Thai Kickboxing’s 17th Fight Night, promoted by Nigel Thompson, former English, Commonwealth and World Thai Boxing Champion. Featuring some of the country’s best young, up and coming Thaifighters. Tickets £18.00, VIP Packages available, starts 5.00pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Celtic DreamA myriad of Irish music, song, dance and costume, featur-ing an international cast of dancers and vocalists from around the world. Tickets £22.50, starts 8pm at The Grove Theatre, Dunstable. Tel: 01582 602080 www.grovetheatre.co.uk/events/celtic-dream•BannedLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Jon’s Music QuizUp to £300 prize money! The King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Monday 22nd april ••••••••••••••••••Hatha Yoga ClassA full hour of Hatha yoga including gentle stretching and yoga postures, basic breathing techniques and relaxation. Starts 6.30pm at Bedford Athletic Stadium, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Tony’s General Knowledge QuizThe King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Open Mic NightHosted by local singer/songwriter Matt Roberts, 8.30pm til close. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

tuesday 23rd april •••••••••••••••••••Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise £3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Catch Up & Crochet WorkshopLearn how to make a basic granny square. Suitable for be-ginners and those wanting to refresh their skills. From 7pm at Fancy Coffee Shop, Roffe Avenue, Bedford. Contact: betsymakes@gmail.com•ME/Chronic Fatigue Yoga ClassA specific class aimed at those with or who have had ME/Chronic Fatigue. Session includes gentle postures, pranayama/breath work and long relaxation/meditation. Starts 6.15pm at The Quaker Meeting House, Lansdowne Road, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Karaoke & CocktailsDanny’s Bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Old Geezer BandAffectionately known as The Fiddly-diddlies! Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington ArmsWellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Wednesday 24th april ••••••••••••••Millennium Country Park Easter Egg TrailPut on your wellies and learn all about the wildlife of the park with the wildlife quiz. Collect your reward at the end.

No need to book, £2 per child, 11am-4pm. The Marston Vale Forest Centre and Millennium Country Park. Tel: 01234 767037 info@marstonvale.org www.marstonvale.org•Knit & NatterJoin in for a chat whilst you knit at Bedford Central Li-brary on the last Wednesday of every month, 2.30-3.30pm. Tel: 01234 718178•The Bedford Auction Centre Valuation DaySee 12th April. www.peacockauction.co.uk•Intermediate Yoga ClassA stronger class aimed at those who have been practising yoga for over a year or longer. Session includes posture work, pranayama and relaxation with a gradual focus to-ward meditation and mudra work. Starts 6.15pm at Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Bedford Rock ChoirThe UK’s largest, amateur contemporary choir. No scary auditions and no need to read music or have any experi-ence. Try a session for free. Tickets £100 per term, 8pm start at The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Cats’ Protection League Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•The Biggest Jam Night in TownHuge open mic night in Danny’s Bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Stitch ‘n BitchBring any crafty project to The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd, 7.30pm. beverlyjoburridge@gmail.com Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

thursday 25th april •••••••••••••••••A History of Italian Cooking with Christine FelliniChristine Fellini, of the Case Fellini Italian Cookery School in Bedford will discuss the history of Italian cooking with recipe tips thrown in along the way. A free lunchtime talk, 11am-12noon at The Marston Vale Forest Centre. Tel: 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org•Jam Night with Mat RobertsLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls (from The Wonder Stuff)Live music on the Main Stage at Esquires with support from The Ouse Valley Singles Club, Harriet Langley and Jonny Mudd. Doors 8pm, £8.50 advance tickets from www.wegottickets.com & Dannys Bar, Esquire’s Bromham Road, Bedford. www.bedfordesquires.com•The Last Chance Ragtime BandLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

Friday 26th april •••••••••••••••••••••Big Bang Camper & Bus ShowVW festival in conjunction with Volksworld Camper and Bus magazine. VW racing, music, show ‘n shine and traders. Tickets from £12, kids under 16 go free (max 3 per adult). Gates open 8am. Santa Pod Raceway, Airfield Road, Podington, Wellingborough. Tel: 01234 782828 www.santapod.com www.big-bang.co.uk•The Bedford Auction Centre Valuation DaySee 12th April. www.peacockauction.co.uk•Charity Ball for Great Ormond StreetCharity ball and four-course meal with entertainment in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital plus raising funds for a defibrillator for Bedford Town Football Club. Tickets £50, dress code black tie (black & purple theme). The Park Inn Hotel, Bedford. Tel Libby Grasso: 07837 943929 or Toni Oppido: 07857 534452 www.parkinn.co.uk/hotel-bedford•Verra Cruz+Fruhstuck+Them Dying EyesLive music on the main stage from 7.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Ceroc Modern Jive NightFreestyle Ceroc fun. Come alone or with a partner for a party atmosphere and a top DJ. Dancing until 12.15am. Tickets £9 on the door, starts 7.45pm. Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s SquareBox Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk www.ceroccentral.com•Bedford Comedy Club - End of Season SpecialFeaturing stand up comedians who are regulars on the London and national comedy circuit.Tickets £12 advance, £13.00 on the door, starts 9.00pm at the Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Exec Club Karaoke9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

saturday 27th april •••••••••••••••••Big Bang Camper & Bus ShowSee 26th April. www.big-bang.co.uk•West End Wendies Theatre WorkshopsTake part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www.westendwendies.com•Chas & Dave – Back by DemandAfter announcing their final ever tour a couple of years ago, the popular London duo are back together again for one final tour with support from Ouse Valley Singles Club. Tickets £21.50, starts 7.30pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Burial ClubLive music on the main stage from 7.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Fat Lads’ DiscoHosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500•Loaded Clubnight @ The PadIndie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3-am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclub•Karakoke with Crazy Horse

8pm, The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

sunday 28th april •••••••••••••••••••••Big Bang Camper & Bus ShowSee 26th April. www.big-bang.co.uk•Migrant Meander at the RSPBLook and listen for the migrant birds that have recently arrived back from their wintering grounds in Africa. 10.30am-12.30pm, tickets £4 adults, £3 RSPB members, £3 children and £2 RSPB Wildlife Explorers. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Randall’s Farm Wildlife Watch Group - April ShowersInvestigate how much rain has fallen and discover how clouds are formed. £2 per child, 2-4pm at Randall’s Farm Education Centre, Stewartby, Bedford. randalls.farm.watchgroup@gmail.com •Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•The Denny McCaffrey BandLive music in the bar from 4.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Jon’s Music QuizUp to £300 prize money! The King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Los the PlotLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Monday 29th april •••••••••••••••••••Hatha Yoga ClassA full hour of Hatha yoga including gentle stretching and yoga postures, basic breathing techniques and relaxation. Starts 6.30pm at Bedford Athletic Stadium, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bed-ford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Tony’s General Knowledge QuizThe King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494

www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Big Band Xtra Jam NiteHosted by local singer/songwriter Mat Roberts, 7.30pm til late. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

tuesday 30th april••••••••••••••••••Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise £3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•ME/Chronic Fatigue Yoga ClassA specific class aimed at those with or who have had ME/Chronic Fatigue. Session includes gentle postures, pranayama/breath work and long relaxation/meditation. Starts 6.15pm at The Quaker Meeting House, Lansdowne Road, Bedford. Email: racheall.monton@ntlworld.com•The Girl with the Iron ClawsAn inventive take on a dark Nordic fairy-tale, which shares its roots with Beauty and the Beast. This coming-of-age tale is told through a fusion of puppetry, live action, music and storytelling. Suitable for ages 10yrs+. Tickets £10.00 adults, £8.00 concessions, starts 7.30pm at Bedford Theatre, Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Box Office: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk •Literary Book ClubDiscussing A Quiet American by Graham Greene from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Karaoke & CocktailsDanny’s Bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Old Geezer BandAffectionately known as The Fiddly-diddlies! Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington ArmsWellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

April 2013

An Independent Church. A Member of The Baptist Union and The Congregational Federation.Mill Street, Bedford, www.bunyanmeeting.co.ukMinister: Revd. Christopher J Damp MA BA

SUNDAY SERVICES: 11.00am [Family service – Sunday school for 3+] & 6.30pm Mid-week children and youth activities Wide range of social activities each month Coffee shop open Tues – Sat Wednesdays: lunches and mid-week service email: bunyanmeeting@googlemail.co.uk

32 Dudley street, Bedford MK40 3TBCAMRA North Beds Pub of the Year

2013

BEER & CIDER FEStIVAl 2013Spring Bank Holiday Weekend.

Starts Friday 24th May 2013 (17.00)

on the afternoon of Bank Holiday Monday, May 6th, the Bedford and district Trades Union Council is organising a celebration of International Workers Day in the harpur Suite.

Starting from 1pm, there will be an exhibi-tion which will give an opportunity to speak to representatives of groups involved in issues such as workers’ rights, social justice, community engagement, world peace and party politics. There will be speakers, including Matt Wrack, General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, Megan Dobney, Secretary of the Southern and Eastern Re-gion of the TUC and Patrick Hall, Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate for Bedford and Kempston. But a particular highlight this year comes at 3pm with a performance from Banner Theatre. Banner Theatre is one of Britain’s longest established community theatre companies – a founder member was Charles

Parker, who with Ewan Mac-Coll and Peggy Seeger created the famous BBC radio ballads of the 1960s. They use a combination of theatre, music and song, digital im-agery and “actuality”: the last being what most characterises their work. This is the audio or video recording of ordinary people talking in their communities, and so literally giving them a voice. Banner productions are therefore dynamic, thought-pro-voking, issue-led treatments based on real-life experiences. Fittingly for May Day, Banner are bringing their 1st of May Band to perform “Fighting the Cuts”, a multimedia cabaret dealing with our current financial crisis. It uses a “punchy soundscape of reggae, rap, flamenco, folk and blues” to point out that, although the crisis was caused by bankers taking huge risks in pursuit of ever larger profits, it is ordinary people who are ex-pected to pay for it through cuts to jobs and services. As with all Banner productions, the message is not one of doom and gloom but of fighting back, in this case in defence of our welfare state, public services and

the jobs and living standards of ordinary people.

Admission is free but will be tick-eted because there is a limit on numbers. Tickets are obtainable from Mike Cattell, adsalesmike@peoples-press.com and 07933 717463, Graham Tranquada, g.tranquada@ntlworld.com and 07969 041026 or on the door.

There will also be a bar and some free refreshments. Donations to help with costs would be appreciated.

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

8 What was your favourite act at Bedfringe 2012?

BANNER THEATRE AT BEDFORD’S MAy DAy CElEBRATIONSThEATrE

AN EVENING OF lIVING POETRy @ THE EAGlE GAllERySunday 5th May at 7:30pm

April 2013

BEhind ThE SCEnES AT THE SOUND GARAGE

The Eagle Gallery continues to play host to regular poetry and spoken-word readings by members of the various groups which use the place Theatre. Taking place on a Sunday evening each month, this month sees Swan Theatre mem-bers celebrating the writings of some of our most successful and overlooked contempo-rary living poets. Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy and her predecessor Andrew Motion may be the best known of this group, but Simon Armitage and Owen Shears are just two more names keeping our national anthology developing

continuously. Expect to hear some fantastic poems by writers you know, and some by those you don’t. Tickets are limited, and the evening is proving very popular, so book in advance to avoid disap-pointment. Tickets available from the Place’s website: www.theplacebedford.org.ukFor more details about The Eagle Gallery please visit:www.eaglegalleryartists.co.ukTickets for this event are priced at £5.00

mUSiC

Bedford and District TradeS Union Council

INTERNATIONALWORKERS’ DAY:

MAY DAY

invites you to celebrate

At the Harpur Suite, Harpur StBedford MK40 1LE1–5pmBank Holiday Monday May 6th

MAY DAYthe Harpur Suite, Harpur St

SpeakersMatt Wrack General Secretary, Fire Brigades Union

Megan Dobney Secretary, Southern and Eastern Region Trades Union Congress

Pat Hall Parliamentary Candidate, Bedford & Kempston Labour Party

And At 3pm Banner Theatre and their production of music, exhibition and theatre – Fighting the Cuts Political, trade union and community exhibitions & stallsRefreshments and bar • Free admission – donations appreciatedContact Mike Cattell adsalesmike@peoples-press.com • 07933 717 463 Graham Tranquada g.tranquada@ntlworld.com • 0796 7041026

Supported by

Bedford Borough Branch

BedfordshireBranch

Staff LE/0577Branch

To the untrained eye, the Sound Garage on the Woburn Road industrial estate in Kempston looks just like any other anonymous lock up.

But step through the door and you will discover it is a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of musical marvellousness. Established two years ago by Ben Garraway, the Sound Garage is a one-stop shop for musicians. There’s space to rehearse, to record vocals, a production studio, a music shop and he can also arrange repairs. A for-mer music teacher, Ben is an accomplished musician himself and still teaches a variety of instruments in schools and at the Sound Garage too. The Sound Garage is open from 1pm until 11pm every day and is host to a diverse range of musical genres from rock to Indian Dhol drummers, string quartets to hip hop. “We’ve created an environment

where we have loads of musicians coming through the door,” explains Ben. “There’s a good music scene in Bedford at the moment and the success of Jam Nights has encour-aged people to pick up an instrument and give it a go.” And with rehearsal rooms just £10/hour to hire, it’s no wonder that it is proving popular for bands, singer/songwrit-ers and music producers alike. Times they are achanging, so how has the internet affected how people find and listen to music? “With the prevalence of

social media, musicians are able to build a community out of the music they’ve made.

By self-publishing their tracks online they can deliver their music direct to their fans,” said Ben. “There’s a far greater immediacy now and less reliance on the traditional music industry.” It’s not just serious musos who can take advantage of the Sound Garage. Their children’s parties are proving extremely popular. The package for 8 to 10 children includes a singing workshop, recording of the track and a CD for each child to take home. Genius!

“No two days are the same at the Sound Garage,” says Ben. “I’m easily bored, so the variety is perfect. For example, tomorrow I’m mixing a live band recording, hosting a children’s party, teaching some music stu-dents and then my band Hair of the Dog have got a gig.”

To find out more you can call Ben on 07949 474661, email him at thesoundga-rage@yahoo.co.uk or go to www.soundgarage.co.uk The Sound Garage, 3 Singer Court, Singer Way,

Woburn Road Industrial Estate, Kemp-ston MK42 7AW.

poETry

Phot

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Web

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poet: Simon Armitage

Ben Garraway: Sound Guy

From Friday 13th July to Saturday 3rd August, Bedford will host its seventh international fringe festival, bringing some of the best comedy, music, theatre, poetry, storytelling and much more from across the UK and beyond to our town. With a full programme still to be con-firmed, Bedfringe 2013 is already shaping up to be the biggest and best yet. Over 100 fantastic acts from as far afield as Washington, USA, Columbia, and South Africa are set to perform across eight venues in the fringe festival which has quickly made a name for itself on the fringe world map hosting some of the best touring comedy and theatre before it hits the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The Future Legend produced show Bedfringe Seven... Live! line-up is complete and is the most exciting to date with a spe-cial night of top-notch comedy and music with award winning a cappella vocal group The African Soweto, guitar double act ShowHawk Duo, vocal percussionist BeatFox, writer for ‘8 Out Of 10 Cats’ and ‘Mock The Week’ Nat Luurtsema and the “stunningly good” (THE SCOTSMAN), Yianni. The show will be hosted once more by the multi award-winning Perrier nominated comedian, author, explorer and occasional film star Tim FitzHigham. The laughs continue with the world famous Faulty Towers: The Dining Experi-ence (Fringe sell out show 2008 - 2012) and Edinburgh favourite Joel Dommett (MTV

News, BBC3’s Russell Howard’s Good News) with his new show for 2013. In fact, expect to see a whole host of up-and-com-ing comedians performing brand new mate-rial including Edinburgh preview shows from Vikki Stone, Matt Green, Luke Toul-son, Nat Luurtsema, James Acaster, Tony Law, Rhys Mathewson, David Morgan, Josh Widdicombe, Benny Davis (Axis Of Awe-some), Pete Firman, Morgan & West... the Card Ninja, Javier Jarquin, sketch comedy from the brilliant Dog Eared Collective and Cambridge Footlights members’ new show ‘Fans Of Comedy’ plus the usual suspects, John Hegley, Simon Munnery and Patrick Monahan. Plus so much more! The international line-up includes music

from The African Soweto (South Africa), Usifu Jalloh (South Africa), theatre from Heather Bagnall performing her new show Single Married Girl (USA) and perfor-mance artist Jesus Quintero performing Hour of the Wolf (Columbia). There’s something for the kids too as Big Wooden Horse stroll into town with their five-star show Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus or perhaps you fancy Noisy Oysters Three Billy Pigs? Any film buffs will be pleased to hear that we are running film screenings throughout the festival of local and high profile movies

including an outdoor cinema in Harpur Square! Talking about Harpur Square... expect to see a busy outdoor stage hosting theatre, com-edy and live music on 25/26/27th July. So, in a nutshell, don’t miss out on this award winning entertainment on your doorstep. Tickets are now on sale. Book yours at: Central Box Office 01234 718112 or visit www.bedfringe.com

GET READy FOR BEDFRINGE 2013FESTivAl

DRENGE @ Esquires 11th AprilDRENGE are one of the most talked about bands in the UK right now, featuring as ‘ra-dar band of the week’ in NME, having their debut single ‘Bloodsports’ declared by Zane Lowe as: ‘The hottest record in the world’ and getting hyped by just about every blogger, band and publication worth talking about. The 2 brothers (Eoin Loveless - Guitars/Vocals.. Rory Loveless - Drums) have recently been out on a co-headline tour with another hotly-tipped two piece Deap Vally, and back in February they supported The Cribs at Shepherds Bush Empire. The future sees these guys storming academy venues in the big cities, but this mini tour is the complete opposite - a

tour set up by the management with cheap tickets in small, sweaty venues with tonnes of atmosphere. Catch these guys while you can at a small venue as they will be moving up a notch next time round and you’ll have to squint to see them.

Tickets: £6 Available right now from: Seetickets, Luscious Juice Bar or Dannys Bar at EsquiresDoors open at 8pm

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OUR KIND OF MUSIC Saturday 20th April @ The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd

Those lovely people at the Bedford Arms are hosting DJs Jay, Alex and Matt for another night of Our Kind of Music this month. If you love soul, funk & house, then there’s no better place to be! As usual, OKOM will be bringing the best tunes, the coolest dancers

and the friendliest funksters to The Bedford Arms from 9pm til 2am. Be there or be square!

Bedford’s music scene is nothing if not diverse. Whether it’s Northern Soul, punk or psych folk that floats your boat, there’s the opportunity somewhere in our town to get your fix. But there is one genre that isparticularly well catered for and that’s jazz. Tom and Laura at the Bedford Arms are dedicated to showcasing the best of jazz and as a result, Bedford is now regarded as having a better jazz scene than nearby Cambridge. For the last two years, musician Nick Hill has been organising jazz events at the Bedford Arms on Bromham Road. And while Nick is keen to emphasise that this is just a hobby, the acts that he attracts are all well-known on the jazz scene, with many being internationally renowned. “The majority of the performers are professional musi-

cians,” explained Nick. “For example, Don Airey is Deep Purple’s keyboard player, Tina May plays and records all over the world and Gilad Atzmon is regarded as one of the country’s finest saxophonists and was awarded BBC jazz album of the year in 2003.” Nick began playing the trumpet aged

nine but in an act of teenage rebellion he gave it up at 14. Nick lost his sight at 21 and it was only then that he picked up the trumpet again and developed his love of playing jazz. He is dedicated to sharing this passion and his aim is to encourage as many people as possible to come along to the Bedford Arms to listen, learn and enjoy

the music. Every Monday from 8pm the featured musicians improvise on jazz standards and the atmosphere is rev-erentially relaxed with the musicians enjoying banter and a beer with the audience. Sunday lunchtimes feature jazz duos led by guitarist Roger Dick-ens, but it is not unheard of for passing musicians to join in too! This month, Nick has lined up some exceptional talent for our delec-tation. So whether you are a lifelong jazz fan, a recent convert or keen to get into the scene, here’s what’s com-ing up:15th April: Internationally renowned pianist Tim Lapthorn22nd April: John Critchinson who played piano with Ronnie Scott for 15 years

The Bedford Arms, Bromham Road, Bedford, MK40 2QATel: 01234 214656www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

9Nice.

At BEDFORDNETWORK we share with you our best experiences of Bedford… From cafes to art galleries and theatres to books. Anything and everything – but only the best.This month we have a Clanger hot tip for those of you who want to spice up your life- Bengal Brasserie. Here you’ll get the warmest welcome, a tantalising menu and food to set your tastebuds tingling. This family-run restaurant offers the best in Bangledeshi and Indian cuisine with fusion dishes that are prepared with fresh ingredients. The chef prides himself on healthy menu choices and the result is the most fantastic food presented in real Masterchef style – beautiful dishes with real attention to detail. With subdued lighting, the con-temporary style of the restaurant gives a beautiful setting for the food that is the star of the show. And a real bonus for us…..Bengal Brasserie is on The

Broadway only a few minutes’ walk from The Burnaby Arms! This intimate restaurant is on two floors, with seating for up to 80 people. So whether it’s a meal for two or 20, this is the perfect place! You will definitely find something to suit your palate from the menu – check out the website to see for yourself. Our favou-rite dishes are Chicken Tikka Sagwala and Chicken Shashlick - but we love practically everything on the menu! Top Tip: order a takeaway from Bengal Brasserie through just-eat.co.uk and get 20% off orders over £20. To see menus and find out more www.bengalbrasseriebedford.co.uk

Stay tuned to Bedford Network as we celebrate the people, places and perks that make Bedford unique.www.bedfordnetwork.co.uk Twitter: @BedfordNetwork

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GREAT BEDFORDIANS REVD PERCY “PIGGY” LANGDON (1874-1954)

April 2013

BooK ClUB

By Kristian Purcell, Curatorial Assistant

The collections at The Higgins, Bedford have come together in many different ways over the years. The story of Cecil Higgins collecting with the intent of setting up a mu-seum of art in Bedford is the best known, but others have been just as vital in acquir-ing for Bedford a museum of diverse and interesting collections. Revd Percy G. Langdon (1874-1954) is just such a person. Born in Forest Hill, Kent, in 1874 he became an Assistant Master at Bedford Modern School in 1897. He became President of the Bedford Natural History & Archaeology Society and es-tablished a school Archaeol-ogy Society, which in 1919 excavated a churchyard in Millbrook, rediscovering

two statues that were rumoured to have been buried there after making “disconcert-ing noises” in the 1800s. He acquired from the boys the nickname “Piggy” due to his initials - P.G. In 1920 he was involved in rearranging the school museum, and after that became the Curator. He donated many items from his own collection throughout his time at the school, including on one occasion listed

on June 1920 “7 battle axes, Crucifix Fish, Globe Fish, Alligator, Cannibal Drum, pair of Tibetan shoes, pair of Indian Shoes, Weasel and a Roman Tile.” Langdon, with his energy and passion, gave the museum greater focus and purpose in its collecting and actively encouraged old boys and the people of Bedford to donate. His goal of raising the museum from a school curiosity into a “museum

of reference to the County” was quickly achieved. In the dozen or so years he ran the museum the profile was great-ly raised and the quality of collections vastly improved. The school museum would later be merged with the Town Hall collections to form Bedford Museum, which has now become The Higgins. Through the donations and purchases made during this time Langdon managed to take a snapshot of Bedford’s interwar society, which we hope to be able to shed more light on in the new displays when The Higgins reopens this year.

Book clubs and reading groups have never been more popular.

Bedford Central Library has records of 99 alone. Uniquely, Bedford Book Connec-tions aims to compare books with their film, audio and dramatic interpretations, so why not join in? Here’s some more information about what they’re about (entertaining and educational discussion), where they meet (the pub) and how to get involved. Co-ordinator Shawn D Streadfast explains: We meet every two weeks in the Cabin Bar of The Ship on St. Cuthbert’s Street, Bedford (currently at 12:00 noon Saturdays) to chat about a book we have chosen col-lectively. The venue is an historic room with exposed beams and fireplace. Imagine being seated round a fire with a good book, a pub lunch and a pint, if so desired. What better way to while away a Saturday afternoon? (Indeed! – Ed) We discuss the text, as well as its con-nections to other media; connections that give depth and breadth to the words on the page. Where possible we will view and listen to film, theatre and radio adaptations exploring how they relate to the original text. In short, words on the page, in the air

and on the screen. We recently read Bram Stoker’s Dracula and our discussion included Orson Welles’ radio adaptation. We also looked at early theatrical and film productions including a few of the faces and voices that have portrayed Dracula over the years. The results are included on our blog, with the full radio play of Dracula as broadcast on 11 July, 1938. Bedford Book Connections is a reading group that dives deep into the pages of a book and surfaces with items that illuminate and enhance the book as a whole. So if you have an interest in reading, listening, watching and writing (or any combina-tion thereof) we are the group for you. Our blog is a place for members to write about the books we read or a platform for their creative output and to promote local authors and their books. We are on Twitter for those who want to keep in touch between meet-ings @BedfordBookConn.

For further information and when we next meet visit our blog: www.bedford-bookconnection.wordpress.com or call us on 07528 511105.Everyone is welcome, so come along to one of our meetings and see what we’re all about. We bid you welcome.

BEDFORD BOOK CONNECTIONS: MORE THAN JUST A READING GROUP

POETRy DRINK & DRAWThursday 18th April, Harpur’s cellar Bar, 7:45pm £2 for drawers and performers. £3 for just listening

Ouse Muse’s open-mic spoken word & poetry night will be a special joint session with the Circus of Illustration’s ‘Drink and Draw’. The night will showcase poems re-sponding to the Circus’ illustrations from their online directory (bedfordshireil-lustrators.tumblr.com) along with the illustrators live drawing their responses to

performances and poems. We don’t think this has been done before in Bedford, so it will be a rather cu-rious experiment, but a lot fun! Everyone is welcome and encouraged to join in and take part, be it with your words, with your doodling or if you just want to watch and enjoy the mayhem (with a glass of wine perhaps!). On the night, The Circus of Illustration will have a limited printed run of their brand new fanzine to give out exclusively for this event! Issue one is called ‘In the Woods’ and features sylvan lyrics, poems and stories each beautifully illustrated by the members of the Circus of Illustration.

WORDS & PIcTURES

JAZZ AT THE BEDFORD ARMS

Jazzy: Nick Hill

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Piggy In The Middle

If you are interested in the traditional skills of lace making, then head along to St Paul’s church in Bedford on Saturday 13th April between 10am and 3pm. Members of the Aragon Lacemakers with be holding demonstrations of bobbin lace making and there will be the opportunity to

have a go yourself. In addition, there will be an exhibition of lace old and new and a raffle of beautiful handmade lace items will take place with proceeds to the Church. Free entry. If you are unable to go along in April, the Aragon Lacemakers will be in the Garden Room at Moggerhanger Park on Saturday 25th May between 10am and 3pm. Raffle proceeds will go to the Moggerhanger Park Charity.

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By Jane Perrone

Conference; Comice; maybe a concorde if you’re lucky - to most of us, one pear is as good as another.

Yet tucked away in a greenhouse in the Bedfordshire village of Old Warden, there’s growing evidence - quite literally - that Bedfordshire can lay claim to its own historic pear with a pedigree that dates back to the 13th century. The Warden Pear is a hard-fleshed cooking pear, very different to the modern supermarket dessert varieties: you wouldn’t want to sink your teeth into it. Yet this pear is thought to have been cultivated by Cistercian monks at the nearby Old Warden Abbey back in the 13th cen-tury, and it was once a staple ingredient in the classic Elizabethan dish known as Warden pie. In fact it was so com-monplace back then that it’s even mentioned in Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale, when one of the characters, Clown, says: “I must have saffron to colour the warden pies”. (If you’d like to try to make your own Warden

pie, there’s a recipe and some background online, here: http://bit.ly/YENaDi - assum-ing you can’t find any actual Warden pears, substitute with any hard pear!). Paul Labous, lecturer in horticulture at Shuttleworth College, has been working with horticulture students to bring back this old cooking pear variety back to life. There are four gnarled Warden pear trees trained against the walls of the College, so Labous and his team have taken cuttings from these “mother” trees and used a technique known as grafting to create new ones. The young trees, still in their pots, are currently break-ing into white blossom in a greenhouse at the College, under careful guard until they mature, but eventually they will find new homes. Some will be planted in the gardens of a development of new houses in the vil-lage of Old Warden; others will be planted

at the college, but if things go well, garden-ers may eventually be able to buy and plant their own piece of local history in the form of a Warden pear. “Grafting the plants takes patience and skill but the results can be seen in the 30 baby pear trees now growing. The trees will be tended until they reach sufficient height and strength to produce pears in about three years’ time,” says Labous. The project is a great way for the students to get first-hand experience of grafting, which is sadly becoming a lost art in the UK due to the rise in imported trees, he adds. “It is important to keep the historic line of the Warden pear as an example of what can be done to save rare plants.” The origins of the Warden pear aren’t completely cut and dried - there’s uncer-tainty over whether the Warden pear is identical to another old cooking pear variety known as ‘Black Worcester’. However, Labous is increasingly confident that the

two are distinct from one another, although only DNA tests will prove that beyond doubt. In the meantime, Labous would be delighted to hear from anyone who believes they have a ‘Warden Pear’ tree in their garden.

Jane PerroneGarden writer, editor and bloggerhttp://perrone.blogs.com/horticulturalhttp://guardian.co.uk/gardening-blog@janeperrone

CAKE By ThE BooK.By Alice SmithThe Green Coffee Shop at the library does textbook coffee and cake. Sorry. I’ve been meaning to call in for ages, but the appealing cafe has always been full when we’ve happened to pass by, and the little coffee and cake assistant doesn’t do queues. But this time, we struck it lucky and managed to find a free table; one right by the window so we could look out at the market stalls and skateboarders in the square below. No wonder the place is popu-lar. A beautifully prepared cappuccino was brought to the table – strong, but with really good froth on top (and enough chocolate topping to please Tilly as she slurped up the remains of the milk at the end.) Lots of speciality teas were available, along with a nice selection of properly-made coffees, and a range of cakes that was even better than I

had heard. (Rumours surrounding the great-ness of the Library Cafe are not hard to come by amongst my mostly retired neigh-bours.) There was – and they definitely merit a full list – amaz-ing looking vanilla cheesecake, lemon drizzle – fatly sliced – Victoria sponge stuffed with jam and cream, tiffin slices, cupcakes, shortbread and Snickers cake. That’s right – Snickers cake. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. Or at least Ikea. Snickers cake is like the Daim cake that Ikea sell, which is an almond biscuit base, butter cream and almond caramel, covered in chocolate top-ping. It is very nice. I can’t emphasise that enough. The tiffin that Tilly ate was also very nice – crumbly and chocolatey and a very reasonable size (it turned out to be a ‘save half for later’ kind of cake, which is always a bonus.) But all the cakes looked great, plus it was not over-priced, the wait-

ress was friendly and helpful, they sell juice cartons and snacks for little visitors and you can sit and people-watch out of the huge Library windows onto the busy square and pretty flowerbeds be-low. On a sunny day, you could probably get a tan sitting by the window here. There

are tables and chairs outside the library entrance which look ideal for days when it is slightly warmer than the 4 degrees it was on the day of our visit. And, of course, it is a cafe in a library. There are few sitting-and reading opportunities in Bedford as great as this one. We spent a truly lovely half an hour browsing the lovely selection of childrens’ books after our cafe visit. In these cash-strapped times when libraries all over Britain are faced with closure, this great cafe is another way of showing your support for a very valuable and much loved local service.

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

Scrumptious looking recipe this month. NOM NOM.10

rECipECAFE VIRTUOSOlEMON & POPPy SEED CAKE

ONE PEAR IS AS GOOD AS ANOTHERGArdEninG

CoFFEE & CAKE

April 2013

This month at Cafe Virtuoso we are experimenting with juices, to assist in feeding the body enough protein, vitamins and minerals to keep you going throughout the day without craving processed sugars and sweets. So why not come in and see our full variety of juices on offer.However, once in a while it’s nice to have a treat and hence us sharing with you our de-licious recipe for ‘Lemon and Poppy Seed Cake’. We bake them in store so they are nice and fresh. Come on in and have a taste and if you like it, then here is the recipe to bake it for yourself at home INGREDIENTS200g/7oz unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)150g organic brown sugar3 portions of ‘no egg’ (egg substitute)Finely grated rind of 1 orange and 1 lemon55g/2oz poppy seeds300g/10.5oz plain flour2tsp baking powder150ml/5 fl oz milk

125ml/4fl oz orange juice or juice from 2 orangesJuice from 1 lemonstrips of orange zest to decorate

METHOD1. Grease and lightly flour a Bundt ring tin, about 24cm/9inches in diameter and with a capacity of approx 2 litres /3 pints2. Cream together the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy, then add the eggs gradually, beating thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the orange rind and poppy seeds. Sift in the flour and baking powder and then fold in evenly. Add the milk and orange and lemon juice, stirring the mix evenly.3. Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and bake in a preheated oven, 160C/325F/Gas Mark 3, for 45/50 minutes or until firm and golden brown. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack to cool.4. For the syrup, place the sugar and orange juice in a saucepan and heat gently until the sugar melts. Bring to the boil and sim-mer for about 5 minutes until reduced and syrupy.5. Spoon the syrup over the cake whilst it is still warm. Top with the strips of orange zest and serve warm or cold. **Bon appétit**

SponSorEd By: CAFE VIRTUOSO 7 harpur Street, Bedford, mK40 1lA: www.cafevirtuoso.co.uk

REVIEW: RESTAURANT 25 By Stephen Bywater

Catering colleges are wonderful things. Catering students, unlike those who follow the road to university and everlasting debt, have already chosen their profession and are ready to bow and scrape plates, boil and bake in order to achieve their goal. In Bedford College’s Restaurant 25 you’ll find students keen to make a good impression, keen to learn their craft and to pursue a dream which, like the perfect béchamel sauce, is already starting to thicken on the stove. And when you arrive at Bedford College don’t be put off by the Casualty lifts on the ground floor, though the thought of having stumbled onto a tv set takes hold as you step out at the fifth floor of the tower block. The lights are bright and the extras are ready to take your coat, to lead you to your table. It’s smooth, rehearsed, polite, and all quite

touching. There’s a carafe of water on the table and the cutlery is gleaming. There’s a wine list and the Rioja’s good. The dinner menu gives you sufficient choice and the dishes arrive within the clicking of fingers. First the starters: crafted displays of culinary care and attention; the goat’s cheese and tomato timbale was a generous cake of farmyard fresh; the scallops ceviche a welcome breeze off a shiny sea. For the main course our industrious editor (Bedford’s answer to Mary Portas), had slow-braised lamb shank on a creamy herb mash. It looked and smelled delicious: a glistening bowl of meat and juice, the lamb sliding off the bone like some sort of Bovril-coloured stocking. Having given up meat for Lent I had the gravadlax of salmon with a honey and mus-tard sauce. It was fresh, clean and delicately flavoured - Finnair business class at its best,

as A.A. Gill might say. Erica was full. I had to have the sticky toffee pudding with sauce anglais. For me this was the most satisfying and most accomplished dish –which says more about my own barbarous nature than the dinner itself. If you haven’t already step foot inside Bedford College, then I urge you to go. The food is given an enormous amount of care and attention. The dishes are good, the lamb and pudding outstanding – each one deserving at least a Michelin star. But what also makes eating at Restaurant 25 a delight is the service. The students, ably marshalled by Sam, convey their passion and commitment with each passing gesture or comment. I say visit the restaurant, check out its website, give their themed evenings some thought, and support the students of Bedfordshire.

Food

The Warden Pear

The Tavistock Cafeteria is towards the Clapham Road end of Tavistock Street and due to the minimalist nature of the front signage might be easy to overlook. But to do so would be to miss out on a great little traditional café – and with all the gentrifica-tion of town centres up and down the coun-try including our own, they are becoming few and far between. Open every day of the week – from 6am to 12 noon – on the day we visited (The Clanger’s Coffee & Cake Correspondent and myself) the small television inside was showing the inauguration mass for Pope Francis. We were looking forward to being as nourishingly fulfilled as the congregation in Rome would be spiritually. The reviews we undertake are always done ‘Under-cover Elephant’ style; we don’t announce ourselves to the owners/staff and only a few reviews in we have little chance of being recognised as ‘critics’. So basically, what we experience should be no different from any other paying customer. The owners have proudly displayed their four-star food hygiene rating at the entrance and there is an incredible choice of food on the menu that is all made fresh to order. We were greeted very warmly, orders were taken (Alice had a bacon sandwich but I threw caution and editorial instructions

to the wind and went for a full breakfast), and we took our seats. During our short wait, we commented on the great value on offer – the bacon sandwich was £1.85 and my breakfast was only £3.30. There are also a range of lunch dishes available for just £3.35. Whilst we were there, a steady stream of customers came in for takeaways or to eat in. The owners are obviously doing something right – which we soon discov-ered when our food arrived. Alice’s bacon sandwich was good – well-cooked, trimmed (i.e. fat free) back bacon, classic white sliced bread and not too much margarine (one thing, she noted, that other places are known to fall down on). My normal breakfast (there is a ‘big breakfast’ option on the menu) consisted of sausage, two rashers of bacon, beans, fried egg on toast, mushrooms and hash browns. It was made by an experienced grill chef – the sausage was halved and delicious, bacon trimmed and crisp, an over easy egg that was still runny and perfectly sautéed mushrooms. My whole plate cost less than a bacon sandwich in other places around town and was duly polished off. If you’re looking for good value, great tasting food with fast, friendly service, make sure you keep an eye out for the under-stated sign next time you find yourself on Tavistock Street.

BAcON BUTTY REVIEWThE TAviSToCK CAFETEriA

THREE CHEERS FOR doUG morlEyBy Rachael Rice

I would like to nominate Doug as one of my local heroes. Doug is somebody who is al-ways looking out for and thinking about other people and their well-being. He is a sprightly octoge-narian and as well as keeping fit by swim-ming and walking, he is involved in several community projects. He takes part in the local soup run providing hot drinks, soup, sandwiches and conversation to homeless people in Bedford. He is also a faithful member of the team who run ‘Time for Tea’ from Christ Church. This is a half-termly event providing tea, cake and fun activities for children (most attending Ridgeway

School) and their families. Doug cheerfully pours cup after cup of tea or coffee and plies everybody with more cakes than are good for them!

By Sharon Grenham-Toze, Bedford Prison Chaplain

it seems to be part of the job description for clergy that we must learn how to smile and chuckle indulgently, whilst inside wanting to yell ‘aaaagh!’

One witticism which provokes such a reaction in me is the oft-repeated ‘of course you only work on Sundays don’t you?’ I’ve just had to turn down the opportunity to pursue a long-held dream of studying for an MA. Not because I’m too thick (although I may discover I am I suppose!), not because I couldn’t afford it (I had the offer of funding). No, I had to turn it down, dream as it was, because I just don’t have the time. So what? We’re all busy. Well, let me reassure you that actually this isn’t a whinge about how hard-pressed I am, but in fact a reflection on how much we all over burden ourselves, and how liberating it was to say ‘no’ to something. Like many people I was brought up and educated to ‘jolly well get on with it’ – to work hard, expect little reward, and not moan and groan about it. These days we feel we have to grab every opportunity, be-cause it might not come round again. With our bank balances feeling the strain it’s all too easy to look for overtime, or take on another job (if we’re lucky). Youngsters are

pushed hard to pass exams, get qualifica-tions. We’re 24/7 networkers, ‘go, go go’, information overload. Add to that the fact that, for many of us, our sense of self-worth comes from the things we do, the titles we have, the bits of paper that announce our success, the endless round of social gatherings, Facebook updates, children’s play dates…phew! Even writing the list is exhausting. We have become so used to activity that we feel lost and useless without it, even when keeping it up damages our health, our relationships and our sense of who we really are underneath it all.

One of the things that many prisoners say to me is how strange they find it being away from the busy-ness of life on the outside. But what my ‘flock’ have to do in the enforced ‘rest’ is face them-selves, and ask hard questions about their life. For some of them, the opportunity to do this is transforming. We hear a lot about the negative experiences prisoners have, but I can assure you that some, with the help

that most certainly is on offer, find a way through to a whole new chapter. Now, their lifestyle may not be yours or mine, and I’m not suggesting a spell in jail as a viable option for a retreat. But I think we can all benefit from turning down the heat on ourselves a bit. Saying ‘no’ to yet another commitment. Asking whether our relentless activity is actually a way of hiding from ourselves and others. As the Spring finally arrives, take time, my friends, to stop and smell the flowers.

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

11Spring arrived yet?

BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE MUSEUM

BEHIND THE WAllS WITH A PRISON CHAPlAIN: JUST SAY NO

rEliGion

SponSorS oF: lOCAl HEROES

April 2013

by Sarah Cowley

For many of us, the thought of ever becoming homeless is something that seems near impossible.

We think that homelessness is the direct result of drug/alcohol addictions and that is simply all there is to it. More of us may not realise that a large number of homeless people do not even live on the streets, but instead within various different hostels. The word ‘hostel’ certainly doesn’t bring for-ward the picture of a pleasant place to live in Bedford, especially if the film ‘Hostel’ is anything to go on. Hostels are dangerous and they’re full of drug dealers, addicts and criminals, right? In fact, the opposite couldn’t be more true. You may be surprised to hear that there are over 11 different hostels currently running across Bedford alone, each one catering to the needs of specific groups. For example, while the Bedford Foyer provides housing for young people aged 16-25, the Life Hostel and Charis Hostel house mothers with babies. Surprisingly the most common circumstance among people entering hostels is “breakdowns of relationships with family,” says Dele

Johnson of the Bedfordshire YMCA. What most people don’t realise is how easy it can be to become homeless. If you lost your job, split with your partner, fought with your family... where would you be living? “If you are sleeping on somebody else’s sofa- that’s homelessness!’ says Dele. ‘People see homelessness as a separate issue. It can happen to anyone’. As frightening as this may be to hear, becoming homeless does not mean that your life has failed. Most people only stay in a hostel for between six months to two years after which point the hostel will support a person in finding housing. During the stay, in most hostels, a person will be assigned a key worker who will provide one-to-one support in everything from help with budgeting, relationship advice, education and careers advice and life skills. The hostel itself is not a terrible and frightening place to live, as all hostels provide 24/7 CCTV and security staff. On top of this nearly all hostels will provide fully furnished rooms along with a basic care package including things such as bedding, a towel and cutlery. Laura, who recently moved out of a hos-tel, says that the experience wasn’t entirely positive: “Financially it was a struggle, I hated sharing facilities with other people and I felt peer pressured to go down the wrong pathway by other people.” However she firmly believes that living in a hostel

has had a positive impact on her life: “It taught me to be independent, it gave me a roof over my head, I got 24 hour support, and the help I desperately needed with my mental health issues.” Since leaving the hostel, Laura has begun a college course, found a job, found a flat and has started to plan a positive future. “Awareness is the biggest thing,” says Dele. “Homelessness affects everyone. People think that all homeless people are lazy, they’re not intelligent, that they won’t become anything. This is simply not the case.” I have personally struggled with homelessness, having to leave home a few months ago aged just 17. Whilst living in a hostel is never easy, I was surprised by how welcoming the staff and people living with me were. We have movie nights, gossip with staff, have rules and chores and in many respects it is very much like living at home. Homelessness is such a broad issue, affecting so many people and it certainly deserves more attention than it currently gets.

Sarah Cowley has joined The Bedford Clanger as part of the YMCA’s work experience programme.

HOMElESSNESS IN BEDFORD

MAKING MOUNTS AT THE HIGGINS, BEDFORD

SoCiETy

For the last couple of weeks we have started to fill The Higgins’s beautiful new display cases with our much missed objects.

For some objects placing them on a shelf is not enough, so a team of mountmakers have been on site making bespoke mounts which will show the objects at their absolute best. I’d never really given mounts much thought, or even really noticed them, which turns out to be a good thing. If you are distracted by how the object is held in place then the mount makers are doing it wrong. Lucky for us then that our mount makers are great. They have made mounts for dis-plays at the Museum of London, the British Library, the British Museum, The Panacea Society and many more. I’ve been trying to take some snaps of them at work to give you an idea of what’s involved and also to give you a sneaky peek at the some of the lovely objects going back on display.

This egg shaped Bonbonniere is being held by a brass mount covered in soft silicone tubing. The silicone stops the brass from damaging the object.

This picture shows a case of tea cups and saucers from the side. You can see how the brass armatures hold the saucers vertically so the viewer will be able to see the pattern clearly.

This picture shows how a bodkin is being held at an angle by an almost invisible mount.

This John Paul Cooper necklace is held in place by silicone pegs that support its weight.

These John Paul Cooper metalwork objects are all on a made-to-measure shelf. The spoon is held vertically with silicone tubing.

So, on the one hand, we hope that you do notice the craftsmanship and thought that has gone into the way in which objects are displayed at The Higgins. On the other hand, we hope you don’t notice the mounts at all, because you will be too busy looking at the objects.

By Victoria Partridge, Keeper of Fine & Decorative Arts, The Higgins, Bedford

Doug Morley

By Paula WalkerWhether you are a keen gardener or someone who just enjoys visiting gardens, Kathy Brown’s garden at the Manor House in Stevington is a real inspirational treat.It has been developed by Kathy, a land-scape and garden designer, and her husband Simon, over the last 20 years and has many distinctive styles – cottage, formal and naturalistic. The edible flower border was featured on BBC’s ‘Gardeners’ World’ in October 2008. Kathy’s book, ‘Edible Flow-ers’, is bursting with recipes, such as rose petal cake and lavender flapjacks! Her new season kicks off on Sunday 21 April (from 1pm to 5pm) with colourful tulip displays and a variety of late flowering daffodils, in both pots and borders, as well as early clematis and herbaceous plants to herald the arrival of spring in this wonder-ful four acre garden. Children are also welcome. There will be a children’s garden table, where they can exercise their creativ-ity by making and planting up their own miniature garden in a tray. A children’s quiz will also keep them occupied and interested. Not to be forgotten is the fantastic Winnie the Pooh playhouse - and who could resist a trip to the North Pole? Not only will an afternoon in Kathy’s garden provide inspiration and an enjoyable family outing, it also supports the National Garden Scheme charities, which include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Help the Hospices and Parkin-son’s UK. Tea and delicious cakes will be available in the Church Rooms.

There are lots of other opportunities to visit the garden throughout the year, in order to experience the changing seasons. On 27 May the second Stevington John Bunyan themed well dressing at the Holy Well will take place and Kathy will be opening her garden, holding a Vanity Fair on the lawn (think of jugglers, country dancing, quirky stalls…). More on this in next month’s Clanger! On Tuesdays from May to September (except 21 May) and Sundays in June and July the garden will be open from 1pm to 5pm. You can picnic, take a tour or just wander at your own leisurely pace. Not to be missed is a chance to sample some of Kathy’s special edible flower cakes from 3.15pm. On Sundays 9 June and 7 July, Kathy will conduct demonstrations of cooking with edible flowers. Authors, Sue Hampton and Leslie Tate will explore the sensual beauty of the garden through music and poetry readings on Tuesday 28 May. Bee Sunday on Sunday 21 July provides an opportunity to find out how to care for bees and extract honey in a demonstration by beekeeper, Chris Lewis, who looks after the hives in the garden. Stevington honey will be available to taste and buy. Sunday 22 September is an opportu-nity among others, to experience the ‘Art Rooms’ in the soft autumn light, based on individual works by Monet, Mondrian, Hepworth and Hokusai, planted with echinaceas, geranium Rozanne, sedums and heleniums. Do go and see for yourself why we are so lucky to have a garden described in the Good Gardens Guide as “a garden of exuberant imagination, atmospheric and brimful of ideas” right on our doorstep.

Entry to all the events is £4.50 for adults (with free entry for children). www.kathybrownsgarden contains a wealth of further informationContact Kathy on 01234 822064 or email: info@kathybrownsgarden.com

IT’S A SMALL WORLD!On Sunday 21st April, Kathy Brown will be celebrating the National Garden Scheme’s open day with some extra special events for children in her beautiful Steving-ton garden. From 2pm, Kathy will be host-ing a free miniature garden-making work-shops. Children are asked to bring along a tin, tray, egg cup or bowl and with Kathy’s expert help they will be transformed into miniature horticultural havens. As well as the workshops, there’s plenty more for children to enjoy at the Manor House Garden, including the charming House at Pooh Corner and Kathy’s delicious home-made cakes!Entry to Kathy Brown’s Garden is £4.50 and accompanied children are free. NGS day monies all go to the NGS Chari-ties which are Macmillan and Marie Curie.NGS day is April 21st and Kathy Brown’s Garden is open from 12-5pm

Emily Finney – self-confessed hater of exercise - talks the The Bedford Clanger about her new-found thirst for fitness and the fundraising event she’s taking part in. It sounds brutal...

I never do things by halves; this I fear, may become a problem with my latest challenge. I work for a fantastic charity called Youth at Risk and this year it’s our 21st birthday. To celebrate, our team has been asked to choose a fundraising activity and encourage volunteers and supporters to get involved. Not one to take the easy route, I decided to take part in something called The Rat Race. On the 11th May 2013, for one weekend only, the Largest Assault Course on Earth is being assembled within the grounds of England’s finest Elizabethan Country Estate. The Rat Race takes place at Burghley House and consists of 20 miles, 20 zones and 200 obstacles. The terrain is 90% off-road (including grass, wood-land, single-track, marsh, rough tracks and ploughed fields) and 10% on quiet tarmac. Taking on the challenge are me, my love-ly boss Ellie, my brother Owen, a cousin and nine other brave souls. It’s going to be tough and it’s going to be hard but we are doing this for a purpose. We are all running for the charity Youth at Risk who deliver intensive programmes that transform the most disruptive and excluded young people.

The work helps them take responsibility for themselves, take control of their lives and gets them on the road towards becoming thriving, contributing members of society. I’ve seen what Youth at Risk can do first hand. I have heard the lives the young people have lived up until the point they come on a YAR programme and it’s not right and it’s not fair. And while I can’t go back in time and change what happened to

them, with continued funding, YAR can carry on helping young people see a future and those young people can go out there and get it for themselves, knowing that they are worth it.

Please consider pledging your support. You can donate by going to www.virginmoney-giving.com/team/YouthAtRisk-MudRunnersAnd you can follow my training progress here https://muddermuckers.wordpress.com/blog/

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

12

ThAnK yoUSThe Bedford Clanger is a labour of love for a lot of people. No one’s making a fortune, we just want to encourage people to embrace and love our town. As ever, this issue would not have been possible without the immense talents of the following people:

Designer: Marisa Straccia (madamebogg.blogspot.co.uk)Advertising Director: Gemma Rogers (@clangerads)Listings Supremo: Bev Burridge (@... well, we just love her)Front cover illustration: Marisa StracciaAdditional editorial: Natalie Mehl, Lloyd Lugsden, Gordon Charlton,

Kristian Purcell, Victoria Partridge, Rachael Rice, Emily Finney, Marisa StracciaSnappy Snappers: Darren Marsh, Shaun Armstrong, Donnie Canning, Editorial Intern: Sarah CowleyProof Reader: Inga Wharton

Go Emily!

RUNNING (WO)MAN

April 2013

FUndrAiSinG

ShowCo Bedford marianettes present:

SWEENEy TODDFrom Tuesday 16th – Saturday 20th April,Sweeney Todd will be in residence at The Place Theatre offering a bit more than your traditional short back and sides. Sond-heim’s black comedy concerns the infamous homicidal career of Sweeney, the demon barber of Fleet Street, who returns to 19th century London seeking revenge against the lecherous judge who coveted his young wife and falsely imprisoned him. Cheated of his revenge against the Judge, Sweeney’s thirst for blood soon ex-pands to include his unfortunate customers, and - with the aid of his razor - he exacts a far more terrible revenge, cheerfully helped

by Mrs. Lovett who is delighted to give new life to her flavourless meat pies! Sophisticated, macabre, visceral and uncompromising, Sweeney Todd mixes intense drama with dark humour - audiences find themselves laughing one moment, and gasping in surprise at the next...Tickets: £12.00 (£11.00 concessions).Group bookings of 10 or more should book direct with ShowCo Bedford Mari-anettes on 07508-857217 (buy nine, get one free!)

Swan Theatre company presents:

DINNERBy Moira BuffiniDon’t miss your chance to see this pitch black comedy as Swan Theatre Company

present the west end smash hit show by Moira Buffini from Wednesday 1st to Satur-day 4th May at 7:30pm. An artist, a scientist and a sexpot are coming to dinner.Paige, hostess extraordinaire, is celebrating the publication of her husband’s best seller.The arrival of Mike, marooned in the foggy lane after crashing his van, provides an unexpected addition to the evening’s entertainment.A silent waiter, sourced from an obscure website, completes the picture.Primordial Soup is first on the menu – let the dinner from hell begin.This show contains very strong language and is therefore not suitable for children.Tickets: £8.50 (£7.00 concessions)www.theplacebedford.org.ukTickets are also available from the Central Box Office in Harpur Street, Bedford, Telephone 01234-269519.

ThEATrECominG Up AT THE PlACE THEATRE:

GArdEnS

As part of its commitment to supporting existing retailers as well as encouraging new start-ups, Bedford’s Portas Town Team is offering free training courses starting this month.

The aim is to encourage as many town centre independents as possible to maximise their sales through social media, the internet and good old fashioned customer service. We look forward to following lots more of our favourite shops on Twitter and Fa-cebook once they’ve attended these courses!

FrEE SoCiAl mEdiA TrAininG For BEDFORD TOWN cENTRE indEpEndEnT rETAilErS 15th May 2013, 2.00-5.00pm, Borough Hall, Bedford

LEARN HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR SAlESSocial Retail has developed a 12 week

step-by-step course on how to use Twitter to grow your sales. The course includes a ½ day session where you will learn about Twitter and set up an account followed by a 12 week supported programme. FREE WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT TRAINING FOR BEDFORD TOWN CEnTrE indEpEndEnT rETAilErS30th April 2013, 9.30am – 2.30pm, Borough Hall, BedfordThe workshop will cover the basics of building your own website, how to manage its content and search engine optimisation Limited Places Available.To apply for your FREE course, please contact Sian Hughes at Bedford Borough Council on 01234 276257 / sian.hughes@bedford.gov.uk

Look out for more free courses to be advertised shortly.

FREE TRAINING COURSES FOR TOWN CENTRE BUSINESSES!

KATHy BROWN’S GARDEN