The Bedford Clanger January - March 2014

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CLANGER THE BEDFORD FOR MUSIC-LOVERS, CULTURE-VULTURES, CRAFTERS, ARTISTS, MAKERS, GARDENERS, TRADERS, FOODIES, FASHIONISTAS JAN-MAR 2014 ISSUE 2 £1 WHERE SOLD

description

The Bedford Clanger is an independent arts & culture listings magazine and features the best of Bedford.We are passionate about our town and want to share the joy.

Transcript of The Bedford Clanger January - March 2014

Page 1: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

CLANGERTHE BEDFORD

FOR MUSIC-LOVERS, CULTURE-VULTURES, CRAFTERS, ARTISTS, MAKERS, GARDENERS, TRADERS, FOODIES, FASHIONISTAS

JAN-MAR 2014ISSUE 2

£1 WHERE SOLD

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THE BEDFORD CLANGER

Book tickets at Central Bedford Box Office Further details and more shows at 01234 718112 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Private PeacefulWED 8TH JAN | 7.30PM MON 3RD - TUES 4TH MAR | 7.30PM

The Reduced Shakespeare CoDracula

SAT 8TH FEB | 7.30PM

Book tickets at Central Bedford Box Office Further details and more shows at

our venue, your theatreSituated in the grounds of Bedford School Theatre

Bedford

“The horrors of war and the joyfulness of life are

bound up together in this magnificent show”

THE SCOTSMAN

THE SUNDAY EXPRESS

The Complete

Word of

God (abridged)

The Reduced The Reduced The Reduced The Reduced The Reduced The Reduced The Reduced The Reduced The Reduced The Reduced The Reduced

The Complete

Word

God(abridged)

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Drink and Draw sessions you’re sure to meet her!

We’d love to hear from you, so if you’ve got a local event planned, are raising money for a great cause or have some interesting art, music or theatre news: let us know! Contributions and guest blog posts are always welcome.

Finally, thank you for your ongoing support of the Clanger: your enthusiasm and positive feedback are what makes The Clanger such a brilliant project to work on.

Erica, Alice & Team Clanger

We hope you had a wonderful Christmas and – like us – are looking forward to the year ahead. Our new year’s resolution is simple: to continue to improve the Bedford Clanger and to make sure that it is your definitive arts, culture and what’s on guide. We are cramming more into the publication and we post additional content to our blog every week. Make sure you follow us on twitter (@bedforclanger), join our Facebook group and check out our blog (www.thebedfordclanger/wordpress.com) to keep constantly up-to-date with the low down on our town. The blog features exclusive interviews, news and what’s on updates, so you really don’t want to miss it.

This season sees the romance of St Valentine’s Day and our cover illustration is by Clanger designer Kristina Bullen. Kristina is also a member of the Circus of Illustration (@wearethecircus), so if you head along to one of their

Happy new year!

CLANGERTHE BEDFORD

Contributors:

Editor: Erica Roffe [email protected] @bedfordclangerAssociate Editor: Alice Smith [email protected] @aliceandsarahFront cover illustration: Kristina Bullen @kristinabullenDesigners: Adam Boreham [email protected] & Kristina BullenPhotography: Graham Watson @grahamshootsMusos: Richard Smith & Lloyd Lugsden @phaffandpotterFilm: Paul Hutchinson @bedfordfilmfestCulture & Theatre: Paula Walker @pauliwauli2The Listing: Beverly Jo Burridge [email protected] Intern: Sarah CowleyGreat Bedfordian illustration: David Litchfield @Le_David_TinkerThe Last Word: The Reverend Sharon Grenham-Toze @glamvicar Erica Alice

Its a clanging good read!

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down for orders, as well as small runs for local businesses.

New t shirt designs will be introduced for 2014 plus there will be other items available including tea towels, tote bags, art prints and more. Exciting times agogo!

Want to keep up with all the Stuff agogo developments? Then sign up to their monthly newsletter at [email protected] and for exclusive offers and news and check www.stuffagogo.co.uk. You can also join the online Stuff community on Facebook & Twitter.

I love to be the person who they turn to and ensuring that I remain positive with the children makes me a very happy person too. I really enjoy gaining the child’s trust which can be a very long process. We watch them develop from frightened little ones who have lost all their confidence, to children who know who they are and where they belong. We provide a sanctuary for a child in need and that is a very fulfilling and enriching experience.

‘We have taken on many kinds of foster caring – emergency care where a court has ruled that the child cannot remain with the parent for even one more day. On those occasions a child will arrive with just a small carrier bag of possessions, a baby will often have nothing at all. They have no idea where they are going or how to handle what has happened to them and we have to reassure them and make them feel at home and safe as quickly as possible.

‘One of the biggest keys to being a successful and happy foster family is the agency that you choose. Through Alliance Foster Care we have been able to meet other families with looked-after children. They honestly care about the children - they always know their names and who they have lived with and their background. They remember our names and experiences and offer full training that is on-going and structured in a way that will work with a foster parent’s responsibilities.’

For more information about Alliance Foster Care, contact Mandy White-England, Alliance Foster Care - 01604 879373 or visit their website: www.alliancefostercare.co.uk

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Stuff Agogo have got selling clothes down to a ‘tee’ ;)

BEDFORD NEWS

Thought about fostering? Then read on...

There are a number of agencies working tirelessly to give children a happy and caring home. Among them is Alliance Foster Care, who shared this case study of the Baker family:

‘I had always wanted to look after children who needed the love and time I was confident that my husband and I could give. I knew we could provide a stable upbringing and that stability is key to caring for children whose lives have become different to their expectations.

Rory from Drenge was even spotted wearing a Stuff tee at one of their recent gigs...

As well as selling online, stalls have started to pop up at schools, festivals and empty units across the Shire. The screen printer has been steadily cranking up and

T-shirt news!Since Stuff Agogo launched in June, they’ve built up a solid fan base, which continues to grow as T shirt orders come in from all over the UK (from people they don’t even know!). Ground troops have scattered flyers far and wide - including Philadelphia and Japan.

GET THE LOW DOWN ON ASPECTS’ REDEVELOPMENT

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This is one ‘aspect’ of Bedford that I can’t wait to use more of...

Aspects logo is unveiled...

Aspects held a competition amongst Bedford schools to design a logo for the new look leisure park, and here is an exclusive sneak peek at the winning idea:

Laura Dwyer of Lincroft Middle School designed the beautiful logo, which incorporates both the riverbank location and the entertainment venues. She has worked with a professional design team to develop the idea from her initial drawing to a polished logo; which really sums up the transformation that's on the cards for Aspects!

The Future’s

Bright for Aspects!

Proposals include an extension and refurbishment of Cineworld to incorporate more 3D screens and a luxury seating cinema, the addition of three new restaurant/cafe units, and a major overhaul of the appearance of Aspects to make more of its connection to the river and Priory Park. The final planning decision will be made early in the new year, but plans have already been met with an overwhelmingly positive response from the public, who are keen to see Aspects become a bigger

and better leisure destination, and make the most of its beautiful riverside location. The extended cinema would make use of the existing Zapp Zone building, and the bar building which is currently vacant would become two of the restaurant units, with another one being added alongside it to create a third. The idea is to make Aspects a very family friendly, riverside destination to encourage people to enjoy their local cinema and restaurants rather than travelling further afield. With over 660 free car parking spaces, and plans to make more of the existing cycle /footpath along from the embankment; the new Aspects is going to be easily accessible, bigger and so much better. We can’t wait!

Exciting plans are afoot to make major developments and improvements to the current Aspects Leisure Park!

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complete, meaning the all new Bedford bus station is scheduled to be open in time for Christmas 2014.

Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: “It is excellent news that the first phases of the bus station redevelopment are now open to the public...we will soon have a gateway to the town of which we can all be proud.”

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I’m not sure the level of sun in that mock-up is particularly realistic...

Whether you’re a regular bus user or not, you’ve almost certainly got an opinion on the state of Bedford bus station. Long viewed as a pretty grim gateway into the town, it is great news that the £8.8million redevelopment is gathering pace.

The new surface car park at Greyfriars provides 142 parking spaces while the public toilets under Allhallows multi-storey car park have been completely refurbished, offering significantly improved and modern facilities.

Work on the bus station building itself will start early in 2014 and includes the complete demolition of the existing bus station structure and the construction of a new, modern and sleek building. The works are expected to take 40 weeks to

Bus Station hails a new

era

the time to concentrate upon my health I decided to enrol in my first year of A Level studies at Bedford Sixth form, attempting to complete my education for the third time. It’s a strange and scary experience being back and I do fear failing again but after my time away from schooling I feel more settled and calm within myself than ever. My Next year’s resolution next year will be simply to keep myself stable and take each day at a time.

I think it is often hard for mental health sufferers to separate themselves from their illness and it is easy to fall in to despair- blaming things that go wrong because of the illness instead upon their own laziness or inability. This is of course not the case and mental illness only masks whatever brilliant qualities are already there. Trying to achieve ‘normality’ is often exhausting and impossible to achieve and sufferers need to only aim towards their own goals. Mental illness makes nothing impossible, even if sometimes things take a little longer than you expected.

Unlike for most of us, this time last year for me was not spent imagining the drastically new person that I would suddenly be motivated to become when New Year’s hit. This new me who would weigh less and be a thousand times more confident and would suddenly have the time and patience to take up every new hobby. So admittedly I may have made some unrealistic New Year’s resolutions in the past… but last year was an exception in that I just could not bring myself to wish for anything. For the first time in my life I felt completely hopeless.

My whole life I had been praised as being an outstandingly bright child and had always been expected to go to sixth form, though suffering badly from mental health issues I failed the course after two attempts. After leaving school for the second time I completely broke down. I was absolutely gutted that everything I had always worked towards was not achievable and fell in to an even deeper depression. It’s been a hard year since then though after a year of finally taking

My New Year’s ResolutionTickets please!Located in St Paul’s Square,

the Tourist Information Centre is a one-stop-shop for local knowledge, Bedford-related souvenirs and also a great place to pick up a copy of everyone’s favourite arts, culture and listings publication...

In addition to these invaluable services, the TIC is also authorised to sell rail tickets to destinations throughout the UK, saving you the hassle of queuing at the station. They also work in association with First Capital Connect to offer an exclusive discounted Day Saver Ticket. This ticket allows you to travel anywhere on the Bedford to Brighton line including Gatwick and Luton (great for getaways), Wimbledon (great for the tennis) and London (just great) as long as you travel outside of rush hour times.

Pop into the TIC at St Paul’s Square or visit their website for more information: www.bedford.gov.uk/tourism

BEDFORD NEWS

By Sarah Cowley

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Local Carers For Local Children

If you have ever thought about adopting a child or becoming a foster carer, now is the time to make that call!

Bedford Borough Council’s new Fostering and Adoption Service launches in January and is very keen to hear from local residents who might be able to provide love and support for local children who need it.

The service will bring together local families who are able to make a positive difference to the lives of children in the borough and children in need of a stable, secure and caring new home.

Cllr Sue Oliver, Executive Member for Children’s Social Care said; “We have a new, dynamic team, ready and eager to take your call and answer any questions and, should you decide to go ahead, to support you through the whole process. We really want to build on the existing foster carer community and to recruit new adopters, so please make the call”.

Whilst the Adoption team strives to find ‘forever families’ for children, the Fostering team supports people who would like to look after children in the short term.

Based in Borough Hall, Bedford, the new Fostering and Adoption Service has a series of regular drop-in events planned, but you are always welcome to pop in at a time that suits you instead.

For more information, an informal discussion or to arrange a visit, please contact Bedford Borough Council’s Fostering and Adoption Service on: 01234 718718 or email [email protected]

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I’d be good at public speaking. Maybe a talk compiling all my witty comments from the Clanger

Gilbert Lloyd Lectures 2014Bedford School’s Gilbert Lloyd Lectures continue and are open to members of the public as well as pupils and staff at the school. The forthcoming programme brings yet more inspirational artists to share their knowledge and experiences. Sargy Mann ‘Confessions of a Blind Painter’ Thursday 6th February 2014 7.30pm

The British painter Sargy Mann is one of the most extraordinary artists living today. Although deeply influenced by Cezanne and Bonnard his paintings attain a remarkable originality. His recent work is all the more astonishing now that he is completely blind having originally been diagnosed with cataracts at 36. In his mind’s eye Mann’s vision has not faded and has found new ways to keep working and today his paintings, collected by Daniel Day-Lewis among others, are more acclaimed than ever.

Catherine Goodman Thursday 6th March 2014

Catherine Goodman lives in London and is represented by Marlborough Fine Art. She studied at Camberwell School of Art and the Royal Academy and is an artist who places a great deal of emphasis

on drawing skills. She has described this as an essential part of art as the means for “recreating from life a three-dimensional reality on a two-dimension space”. In 2002 she won the BP Portrait Award. She is the Director of the Prince of Wales Drawing School in London which she was instrumental in setting up.

CHECK OUT THESE AWESOME TALKS AT BEDFORD SCHOOL!

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9More importantly, where did can I get a cardboard cutout of myself from?! Oh the fun I'd have...

UNIQUE BEDFORD

“Mike was a true Bedfordian – passionate about his town and a strong supporter of Bedford business,” says Paul, “and this ethos is something that I am keen to continue. The company not only supports the Bedford Blues, but also sponsors Bedford Hospital Cars and the Door-to-Door buses. We have also forged links with local schools and many other local organisations.”

Regular readers will know that we at The Clanger are passionate about shopping locally, so here are just a few reasons to choose Michael R Peters & Tavistock Sound and Vision:

A shop is nothing without its staff, and Michael R Peters & Tavistock Sound and Vision can almost certainly boast some of the longest-serving staff members in Bedford! The average length of service exceeds 25 years, ensuring that all the staff have an encyclopaedic knowledge and passion for their products.

Customer service is an activity in which both businesses excel. Following a purchase of any description, each customer receives a

courtesy call to ensure that their purchase is to their satisfaction. If you suddenly find that you can’t work the remote control or tune in your DAB radio, a member of MRP staff will pop round to help you out (what great service! – Ed). They also have the facilities to help customers with urgent problems by arranging the temporary loan of equipment.

And if parking costs are an issue, when you make a purchase they will contribute £1 to your car park costs. Simple!

With approximately 33 electrical items owned per household, why not make your next purchase from your friendly, local retailer rather than heading straight online or out of town? We can guarantee that Paul and his award-winning team will give you a warm welcome, a very competitive price and brilliant service!

19 The Broadway, Bedford, MK40 2TL www.michaelrpeters.co.uk 01234 352107 @MichaelRPeters1

The original business was established in 1966 by Mike and Mary Peters on the corner site of the Broadway and Wellington Street. Once established, the business, based on excellent customer service, grew steadily and enabled Mike to acquire Tavistock Sound and Vision which was trading in the adjacent building.

In the early seventies, Mike became a founder member of Euronics, which has now become the largest electrical buying group in Europe. It is clear that, rather than stand still in the changing retail landscape, he was keen to not only embrace change, but also to shape it. As Managing Director Paul Mead explains, “Being a part of Euronics has given us the buying power to compete with John Lewis and Currys, but we have the product knowledge and customer service that you only get with an independent retailer.”

One of the retail landmarks in Bedford is undoubtedly Michael R Peters and Tavistock Sound & Vision on the Broadway. A Bedford institution since 1966, the business has continued to grow and adapt to the changing face of technology and retail while tirelessly supporting local charities – and in doing so has become part of the fabric of our town.

Michael R Peters and Tavistock Sound & Vision

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I think ‘Bedford, Centre of the Universe’ has a nice ring to it actually..

HOMETOWN TOURIST

Ein Brief von Bedfordby Tom Barwood

In the course of my work travelling to schools all over the country I am frequently asked , ‘So where is home?’ Naturally I reply ‘Bedford’, to which people invariably say ‘Ah, Bedford, that’s very central’. This tempts me to say, ‘Yes, you are right, every day I jump out of bed, fling back the curtains and say to my wife – ‘Oh my, that is so central’. Some days just walking down the street I am so overwhelmed with centrality that I have to sit down and have a rest.

Like many people I didn’t choose to live in Bedford nor am I from here. I moved here for two weeks twenty years ago – a story I have heard repeated in different forms from many people. I guess one of the main draws for me is that I run two businesses based in the town and I rely on the local business community. That can be everything from the printing at White Hart Press and the Colour Shop to the likes of Maria at Pensieri who not only stocks

and sells my books but knows just how to make my coffee or Gio at Conte Di Savoia who managed to provide me with a new outfit (and get it altered) for an important meeting in four hours including home delivery!

This list also includes Spaghetti John’s for providing great value food for when we feel we can celebrate a little, Blue Glass for a Friday night bottle of wine and many more.

All of these businesses are owned and run by the same person. In this world of increasing corporate dominance I only have one real piece of power left as a consumer and that is to choose where, and with whom, I spend my money.

Whilst I am a big fan of cash mobbing, especially when it introduces people to businesses they didn’t know were there I am also in favour of what I call ‘cash blobbing’ where I spend little blobs of cash on a regular basis with people who I like, respect and admire.

Now if ever you do fancy a walk on the wild side then we do have the incredible fortune to be twinned

with Bamberg, the most amazing town in Germany. Apart from being a UNESCO world heritage site it is also home to six breweries and the world class Don Bosco oompah band (of which I am self appointed chair of the UK fan club and have the tee shirt to prove it). Once a year they are good enough to bring the band and the beer over here for the Bamberg Beer Festival. I sometimes wonder if the people of Bamberg thought it said Burford (in the Cotswolds) on the twinning form, signed it without realising and then have been too polite to admit to the shock of their error!

So having moved my wife here, produced a family here, bought another house here and virtually made myself synonymous with Bedford what are my final thoughts? One – when you grow up in Grimsby anywhere seems good, two you should see some of the places I have to go for work but finally I have decided that it is Bedford that chooses you and not vice versa. So get in, get down and join the Bedford groove – Mabel Bartrop must have known something!

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A Royally good day for it!

Sounds great, doesn’t it? But what if they don’t come to your event/concert/fayre? Well…along with wishing for cool things to come to Bedford comes a little bit of responsibility. Someone or ones has worked very hard to get the event up and running. For little or no money. Hoping it will catch fire, it will draw people out. Now, People of Bedford, you need to make good on your promise. Book the babysitter, don’t get comfy on the

sofa, don’t say ‘next time’ (because there may not be a next time). You think it’s effort and costly to go out in Bedford?? Wait ‘til you have to take the train to London to catch a one hour arthouse show your friend is doing. Goodness me!! £100+ later and you really do wish you’d stayed home. Recently, thanks to The Pad Presents and the Corn Exchange, Ocean Colour Scene performed to a packed house. I saw a woman I know out with her husband. Their three children were at home with a friend. They just had to get out and feel ALIVE, like they BELONGED in Bedford and that Bedford was worth going out in. I looked around the room. I think a lot of folks were out (on a TUESDAY – shocking!!) to do just that. Feel alive in Bedford.

So, there you go. The new year is here. Look through the listings in the Clanger and see what takes your fancy. Fancy?? Coffee and cake. Ruby Falls Brunch Club on the 18th of January at the Burnaby Arms (kids are welcome!). Events at The Place Theatre, The Higgins and St. Cuthbert’s Hall. Dancing ‘retro style’ at the first ‘Let Your Mama Out’ night at the Pad on February 15th. Definitely something for everyone.

IF YOU BUILD IT THEY WILL COME…

by Kris Hugheswww.frogschorus.comwww.cicerobuck.com

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His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, came to Bedford in December to visit The Higgins. While in town he chatted to the Aragon Lacemakers at the St Paul’s Christmas Tree Festival and also admired the progress of the High Street Regeneration project. Crowds gathered to get a glimpse of the Prince who arrived by helicopter in Russell Park. Clanger photographer, Graham Watson was on hand to grab some great photos for us of the right royal visit.

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it was “huge fun. There is joy to be had in causing chaos and change and getting people involved.”

The culmination of the year, if he has been successful, will be a ‘Final Gig’ detailing the 100 Acts and will last between four and five hours, with Mark cooking tea for the audience!

Tickets and further information about all shows: www.theplacebedford.org.uk

Friday 7th MarchBedford 7.30pm Tickets: £10 (Concessions £7)

There are all sorts of lessons to be learned in life: how to blend in on a march, how to crash a boardroom meeting, how to avoid becoming romantically attached to an undercover police officer - that sort of thing.

In this playful and provocative show about protest, you’ll learn how to do all of this and more. Funny, surprising, and not a little sad, How to Occupy an Oil Rig

THEATRE

Well-known comic, political activist, writer and TV presenter, Mark Thomas, is bringing his anarchic show “100 Acts of Minor Dissent” to The Place Theatre on 21 March. He was kind enough to take time out from his busy schedule to talk to The Clanger about the ethos behind the show. He pledged to commit 100 acts of minor dissent between May 2013 and May 2014 and if he fails promised to pay £1000 to UKIP. (He has described the party as the political equivalent of Chlamydia!)

As these acts are ongoing, the show itself develops organically, with the active participation of audiences, who suggest acts that would improve our lives. At the time we spoke, 44 acts had already been committed. One of these, a flashmob at Apple’s store in Regent Street protesting against tax avoidance, can be viewed on his website (www.markthomasinfo.com). He has also started four different sets of court proceedings, including challenging the fact that the police are following his journalistic activities because he is on the ‘Domestic Extremist’ list. A demonstration outside the Russian Embassy supporting LGBT rights was another of the acts.

Given the evolving nature of the gig content and the extraordinary number of performances, I suggested that this must be an exhausting process. However, in his view,

Fancy a bit of anarchy?

Friday 21 MarchThe PlaceTickets: £15 (concessions £12)

Go and see Mark Thomas’ new show, “100 Acts of Minor Dissent”

University of Bedfordshire Theatre presents:

“How to Occupy an Oil Rig” by Daniel Bye

is for everyone who ever wanted to change anything. And that’s everyone.

You get to play with plasticine, too!

Daniel Bye is a theatre-maker from the North East of England and a lecturer in theatre at the University of Bedfordshire. He creates solo, ensemble and digital performances that tackle big political and philosophical issues with naivety and reckless abandon. He wants

the audience to know that because we are all part of history, we can all change it. How to Occupy an Oil Rig opened at Northern Stage at St Stephens at the Edinburgh Festival 2013 to excellent reviews.

“Daniel Bye’s invigorating and playful How to Occupy an Oil Rig is both beautiful and wants to change the world.” Guardian

Tickets: Telephone 01234 793197 or email [email protected] Information about other productions can be found at www.beds.ac.uk/theatre

THE BEDFORD CLANGER JAN-MAR 2014

I might do 100 acts of decadence and just indulge for year...12

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The first performance of the year at Bedford Theatre, Private Peaceful, set during the First World War, couldn’t be more apt, as the country marks the anniversary in 2014. Written by former Children’s Laureate, Michael Morpurgo, award-winning author of War Horse, it revisits the life of young soldier, Private Tommo Peaceful, awaiting the firing squad at dawn. During the night, he looks back at his short but joyful

past growing up in rural Devon: his exciting first days at school; the accident in the forest that killed his father; his adventures with Molly, the love of his life; the battles and injustices of war that brought him to the front line.

“Private Peaceful at the theatre is a moving experience that not only tells the story of a young soldier’s final day in World War One, but perhaps more importantly conveys the strength of human spirit.” Michael Morpurgo

Tickets and information about other productions from www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk or from Central Box Office 01234 718112

Scamp Theatre presents:

Private PeacefulWednesday 8 January7.30pmTickets: £12 (Concessions £10) Family ticket £40

Swan Theatre Company presents:

Poetry @ the Eagle GalleryCastle Road16 February and 23 MarchTickets: £5

The Swan Company’s poetical collaboration with the Eagle Gallery continues with romance and Americana!

Channel your inner romantic with a Valentine’s evening of love poetry on 16 February. “Poems that you Love to Love” will be a largely modern collection. Forget the red roses and the cheesy cards, celebrate Valentine’s in style!

“Poetry is Orl Korrect” on 23 March will be a range of American poems to celebrate the first recorded use of the term ‘OK’. From Agee and Aiken to Winters and Zukofsky - there is, of course, no shortage of talent in ‘The Land of the Free.’

Tickets are available online at www.theplacebedford.org.uk/tickets or at the door at The Eagle Gallery

Bedford Modern School Production:

Les MiserablesMonday 10, Tuesday 11, Thursday 13 March – Saturday 15 March Howard Hall7.30pmTickets: £7 (Concessions £5)

Bedford Modern School present a new production of one of the most beloved musicals of all time – Boublil and Schonberg’s Les Misérables. Set in 19th century France, this classic tale based on the novel by Victor Hugo follows Jean Valjean - an escaped criminal, as he attempts to rebuild his life against a backdrop of civil unrest - and the policeman, Javert, who has dedicated his life to tracking him down.

Featuring unforgettable music against a sweeping narrative, Les Misérables is not to be missed! This show contains adult themes that may be unsuitable for younger audiences.

Tickets are available from Monday 13 January from the School Box Office on 01234 332664 or email [email protected]

JAN-MAR 2014

Roses are red, violets are blue, when you’ve no one to love, pizza will do. 13

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14 A CHEESE MAKER! Why didn’t I think of that? What’s that UCAS website again?

We present contemporary dance, comedy, theatre, poetry, visual arts and music with events in Bedford and Luton.

This spring highlights include physical theatre from Divadlo Theatre Company, Daniel Bye’s How to Occupy an Oil Rig, Just So Stories and Jack and the Beanstalk for children and a festival of new work by students. Dance Digital will present a series of new contemporary dance commissions, many in unusual locations.

For information and bookings call

01234 793197

www.beds.ac.uk/theatre@UoBarts facebook.com/uobtheatreTheatre

Theatre 130x180.indd 1 09/12/2013 10:19

Could there be more in your life?

Tel: 0808 1680 180 www.alliancefostercare.co.uk

We have a shortage of fostercarers in Bedfordshire.

Become a foster

carer and make

a real difference

to a child’s life Become afoster carer

and make areal difference

to a child’s life.

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15I’m not sure I need Vivaldi for the weather forecast. Rain, rain, snow, rain right?

For many Bedfordians, Esquires dance floor has been a great place to pull some audacious shapes, but recently the double-dip has subdued the dancing. Never fear; the ‘Saviours of Saturday Night’ are here with open arms and free sweets to kiss away the week. The night was launched in October by a committed group of party people and Esquires lifers. Every Saturday night from 10 until 2, the Saviours team, guest and resident DJ’s are spinning the greatest floor-fillers, and once a month the night kicks-off with a live, local band. From metal to the cheesiest pop, anything goes musically and the same applies to the dress code which encourages daring and bizarre, but doesn’t impose it. Chuck in some cocktails, timely drink competitions and offers, and for £4 entry you get to dance like no-one is watching again. However you get your kicks, Saturday night is back !

www.bedfordesquires.co.uk

MUSIC

Philharmonia Orchestra, the Resident Orchestra at The Bedford Corn Exchange, will soon be making a return to Bedford to celebrate the New Year!

Get a glimpse of the weather forecast for the year ahead with Vivaldi’s Four Seasons on Saturday 18 January 2014. The programme will also include Stravinsky’s playful Pulcinella suite, originally composed for the Paris Opera Ballet.

An all-English concert on Wednesday 5 February 2014 will celebrate the works Benjamin Britten and Ralph Vaughan Williams, with ‘Four Seas Interludes’ from Peter Grimes and Vaughan Williams’ war-time Symphony No. 6.

Handel’s ‘Zadok the Priest’ from his Coronation Anthems will be the crowning jewel of the concert on Wednesday 12 March 2014, for which the Philharmonia Orchestra will be joined by Stephen Cleobury and the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, as well as some of Britain’s most successful young soloists for Beethoven’s Mass in C. Single tickets start from £12, and can be purchased either in person at the Bedford Corn Exchange Box Office, over the phone on 01234 718112, or online at www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

MUSIC ON THE BLOGWant to read band interviews, find out the latest Bedford music news and plan your weekend with our what’s on guide? Then you need to get yourself to the Bedford Clanger blog at www.thebedfordclanger.wordpress.com. We add new stuff regularly, plus you can check out the archive interviews with such luminaries as Lizzo, Slowclub, Young Knives and Drenge. Also, follow us on twitter (@bedfordclanger) or join our Facebook group for the latest Clanger news.

Saviours of Saturday Night

Philharmonia Orchestra

Page 16: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

Bringing you the best of local theatre and musicals, new writing, professional touring drama, poetry/spoken-word and theatre for families.

There’s sure to be something for everyone. Check out our listings on our website. join our mailing list, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

@ThePlaceBedfordfacebook.com/[email protected]

New Clanger Advert 2013-14.indd 1 30/09/2013 13:06:34

JAN-MAR 2014

16

Proud sponsors of The Bedford

Clanger’s ‘A Photo A Day’ Project

Photos: Janice Elliott, Judit Sogan, Robert MacDonald, Marion Bye, Keith Mulliner, Kristian Purcell

Page 17: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

The BedPop Boutique was a social selling showcase for local designers, makers, artists, illustrators and crafters and aimed to encourage people to shop local. The Bedford 'Wall of Fame' highlighted the wealth of wonderful independent shops in the town and flyers for other town centre businesses were on display.

From 21-24 December, amid much excitement and anticipation, the Picturehouse popped up on the first floor showing festive family films.

"Our aim was to bring to life a previously empty shop with an imaginative and quirky use of the space," said BedPopper Erica Roffe. "We wanted to create a vibrant destination on the High Street that would give people another reason - other than just shopping - to visit Bedford. The art gallery, music performances and pop up cinema have all proved hugely popular alongside the traditional selling space."

JAN-MAR 2014

17BedPop: actually the greatest thing to happen since pizza (hut)

The former Pizza Hut unit on Bedford High Street has lain empty for over six years. High profile vacant shops are one of the biggest blights on town centres. Often owned by absentee landlords, they are neglected and contribute to areas looking unloved. Part of the Bedford Portas Pilot Town Team's remit has been to allocate grants to businesses that are starting up on the High Street. There are also grants available for pop up projects that make imaginative use of empty spaces, and that's where BedPop came in..

Making use of a Portas Town Team grant, funding from the Borough Council and support from BedfordBID, the BedPop Boutique & Picturehouse temporarily took over the former Pizza Hut building during December. The cavernous space underwent a magical transformation and on 7 December it opened its doors.

BedPop is aiming to develop and coordinate more pop up projects in 2014. If you have an idea then please contact [email protected]

BedPopputting good stuff in unusual spaces

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Page 18: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

Jan-Mar 2014

We love being super crafty!18

KIDS’ STUFF

If your offspring are craftily-minded and enjoy making and designing things,this could be the club for them! (and technically, for you: outsourcing some of your childs’ crafting time is no bad thing.) Creative days is an art and crafts workshop for children run by Philippa, a fully qualifi ed and very enthusiastic art teacher. Philippa runs Saturday morning sessions for 4-8 year olds at her house in Bedford, which are from 10-11.30, (£6 per session, £5 for siblings) and a parent and toddler session on Mondays from 10-11am, which from January the 13th will be at The Place Theatre! The toddler group is a drop-in session, which is £4 per child or £6 for a family (babies are free.) Have a look at the Creative Days Facebook page www.facebook.com/creativedaysbedford - where you can see some great examples of the kids’ projects - or email Phillipa on [email protected] for more details.

Stuck in a reading-rut? not sure what to read next? The lovely team at Waterstones Bedford have come up with a handy way of widening your bookworm horizons: they’ve put together some excellent book bundles, which combine books by different authors on similar themes, for similar reading abilities. They’re all tied up nicely like a big book parcel, and are a great gift or way of spending book token presents.They’ve got a great selection of childrens’ books for all ages and a stash of colouring and activity books and gifts too.

Book Bundlesat Waterstones!

Creative Days!Do you own the kind of child who loves drawing, cutting, sticking and painting? Are they happiest with a box of crayons and a yoghurt pot full of glue?

at Waterstones!

Creative Days!

The lovely team at Waterstones Bedford have come up with a handy way of widening your bookworm horizons:

Page 19: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

Jan-Mar 2014

ribbit, ribbit... croak... ribbit. 19

The Frogs’ Chorus is a stand out early year’s music session in Bedford. Live music, lots of movement and focus on the children. You need only see the smiles and excitement for yourself to see that Kris (or Coco as she is known to the children) enjoys the session as much as the kids do! Kris is a professional songwriter and singer, as well as having trained in specialist clowning for children in hospital and gained an early years’ music degree. The fifty minute session gives all the children something to enjoy: the littlest ones gain the ability to reach for things, interact with other children, and try things out. as the children grow, they join in with all the singing, the actions, reacting to vocal cues, counting, working as a team and playing together. Yes, music is great for development but far more importantly, it’s GrEaT FUn. Each term brings a different theme and new songs. This year a companion CD has arrived, so you can now sing along at home too! It’s also great value for money. at roughly £4 per family (and discounted if you pay for

Fuelled by a desire to encourage children to spend more time outside exploring the world around them, nature-tech-queen (that’s a new kind of royalty, don’t you know,) Hannah Catmur has developed an exciting new app that combines the great outdoors with new technology! Get Out! Explorers is an ambitious project backed by the national Trust, rSPB and the Wildlife Trust, and Hannah needs to find parents and children who would like to be part of the trial process.

If you like the sound of tracking your trails, scavenger hunting, sharing photos of interesting things you’ve found whilst out and about, then you could be part of the trial stage of the app, and help shape the development of Get Out! Explorers. Get in touch with Hannah to register at [email protected]

the term in full with a free taster), it is a bargain if you have two or three children and need something to do. The Frogs’ Chorus sends the kids home with a smile on their faces and

Clanger Kids Love: The Frogs Chorus

Get Out! Explorers

songs in their heart, and everyone is welcome. If you’re interested, email Kris on www.cocosmusicclub.com or have a look at the website www.frogschorus.com

Colouring with Kitty By Katy Dynes kittydinners.co.uk

Page 20: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

THE BEDFORD CLANGER JAN-MAR 2014

20 Smooooooothly does it ;)

FOOD & DRINK

At Clanger HQ we’re passinoate about supporting local businesses but shopping locally means a bit of leg work. Rather than mindlessly cruising the aisles of the supermarket it means exploring your town, meandering into courtyards, seeking out the unique shops that are off the beaten track. So after a morning of pounding the pavements of Bedford, we’re usually ready for some much-needed refreshment. We are so lucky in our town to have a plethora of independent coffee shops, cafes and restaurants, with very few of the identi-kit brand-names that litter other high streets. And one such oasis is Luscious Juice Bar on Lime Street since 2007.

If you’ve skipped breakfast to head out early to stock up at the market, then swing by in the morning for porridge, poached eggs with smoked salmon, boiled eggs and finish it off with a fairtrade coffee or a juice.

The seasonal lunch-time menu features homemade soups, filled ciabattas, sandwiches and wraps plus homemade gluten-free bread and spelt bread are available most days. You can even make up your own salad box to accompany a baked spud. Dairy, wheat and gluten free homemade cakes are available and for those looking for

something super-healthy there are delicious RAW chocolate and cakes too

Owner Louisa Jones doesn’t just run the joint, she also grows some of the ingredients! “As we head into spring we are able start growing our own wheatgrass again,” she said. “Wheatgrass is one of nature’s superfoods, and like our juice boosters Guarana, Ginseng and Echinacea, you can add it to delicious fresh juices for an added health kick.”

With plenty of seating and a selection of books, magazines and newspapers to read it’s the perfect place to get comfy and watch the world go by. There is always an up to-date Clanger to be had and the posters in the window are the (2nd) best what’s on guide in the town plus you can pick up gig tickets here. As their twitter bio says, ‘food to nourish, music to cherish’. We couldn’t agree more.

Luscious Juice Bar

OVER HERE...

Luscious Juice Bar, 4 Lime Street, Bedford MK40 1NHwww.lusciousjuicebar.co.uk

The former d’Parys Hotel has been a hive of activity over the last few months, and the wait is nearly over. In February, Apostrophe Pubs will unveil their transformation of the building and we can barely stand the anticipation!

The building has been returned to its former glory, with original features retained and new state-of-the-art facilities installed. There is a private dining room, tuck shop and 14 unique and bespoke bedrooms. Seriously, what’s not to like??

CLANGER READERS HAVE THE CHANCE TO WIN DINNER,

BED AND BREAKFAST AT THE D’PARYS, SO WHY NOT CHECK

OUT THE COMPETITION ON PAGE 21?

Page 21: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

JAN-MAR 2014

21COMPLIMENTARY WINE! Where do I sign up?

CompetitionWe have teamed up With apostrophe pubs to offer one lucky clanger reader the chance to Win dinner, bed and breakfast for tWo at the neWly launched d’parys.   You and a partner will enjoy a drink in the bar and dinner (including a complimentary bottle of wine), all rounded off with a luxurious overnight stay in one of the d’Parys bespoke bedrooms. As if that wasn’t enough, you’ll also be treated to breakfast before check out.How to enter: Just register as a Friend of d’Parys at their website www.dparys.co.uk by 31 January 2014. A winner will be chosen at random and notified by email.EvEryonE’s a winnEr.All Friends of d’Parys will be invited to enjoy a half price dining experience at their exclusive previews in February, so make sure you register now!Entrants must be over 18 and willing for their contact details to be used by The Bedford Clanger and d’Parys for marketing purposes.

d’rink d’ine d’ream

d’Parys, 45 De Parys Avenue, Bedford MK40 2UA

SPRING 2013

21

BEDFORD'SINDEPENDENT COOKSHOP

EVERYTHING FOR YOUR KITCHEN AND MORE TOGETHER WITH HELPFUL CUSTOMER SERVICE.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep updated with offers and new product launches. Alternatively take a virtual tour at google business.

7-9 The Arcade, Bedford. Tel: 01234 - 262440

CLICK &COLLECT

LAUNCHINGSOON.

Now we have entered into the New Year, 2014, it’s time to think about New Year’s Resolutions.

Most of us focus on getting fi t or eating right, however they must both work in partnership in order to achieve your goals safely & healthily.

Why not start by visiting us at Café Virtuoso.

You will fi nd a wide range of wholesome foods, snacks and drinks, including fresh juices and smoothies to aid your new health & fi tness regime. It’s only a small part, but it’s a step in the right direction.

With this in mind, why not pop in, mention this ad and all readers will receive a 20% discount on all foods and drinks throughout January & February 2014.

For more information visit us at: www.cafevirtuoso.co.uk Tel: 01234 354707Ad: 7 Harpur Street, Bedford, MK40 1LA

CAFE VIRTUOSO

Promotion to Bedford Clanger readers:

20% OFF ALL FOOD AND DRINK

during January and February 2014 between 9.30-12pm & 3-5pm.

Why not try this smoothie at home:

Power BreakfastBlend the following all together with 1/2 Cup of ice (optional) 1 banana 1 Apple Juice from 1 orange 2 tbsp whey protein powder 4-6 whole walnuts

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2014

Page 22: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

CORN057_13 [email protected]

upcoming special events at number 13

bedford corn exchange & number 1313 St. Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SLPhone: (01234) 718044 Email: [email protected] Web: www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

13NumberLICENSED CAFÉ BAR

valentines Day Friday 14th FEBruary

st. DaviD’s Day Saturday 1St March

pancake Day tuESday 4th March

st. patrick's Day Monday 17th March

mother's Day Monday 24th March to

Saturday 29th March

THE BEDFORD CLANGER JAN-MAR 2014

22

Page 23: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

A 20th century design classic originally made in 1950, Hans Wegner’s Wishbone chair could make a good case for being Denmark’s national chair. It’s a simple, elegant and graceful piece regarded by many as one of the world’s most beautiful chairs, and the timeless design is still to be found in many modern Scandinavian homes. Steam bent woods are used in the manufacture of the chair- usually oak and beech, with a natural rope cord seat. The chairs have become hugely popular in recent years with many copies mass-produced in China and the Far East. Original chairs are still made today in Denmark by the company that originally manufactured them- Carl Hansen.

These may well be a contender for Denmark’s national chair, but they have found a local home at Design Twenty, where there is a beautiful selection of original Carl Hansen manufactured Wishbone chairs from the 1960s and 1970s. Classic, simple, and crucially, very comfortable. What more could you wish for from a chair? Pop in to Design Twenty for a look, and perhaps a bit of a sit-down.

STYLE SCRAPBOOK

The Wishbone chair:

Frye Boots

1950, Hans Wegner’s Wishbone chair could make a good case for being Denmark’s national chair. It’s a simple, elegant and graceful piece regarded by many as one of the world’s most beautiful chairs, and the timeless design is still to be found in many modern Scandinavian homes. Steam bent woods are used in the manufacture of the chair- usually oak and beech, with a natural rope cord seat. The chairs have become hugely popular in recent years with many copies mass-produced in China and the Far East. Original chairs are still made today in Denmark by the company that originally manufactured them- Carl Hansen.

national chair, but they have found a local home at Design Twenty, where there is a beautiful selection Design Twenty, where there is a beautiful selection of original Carl Hansen manufactured Wishbone chairs from the 1960s and 1970s. Classic, simple, and crucially, very comfortable. What more could you wish for from a chair? Pop in to Design Twenty for a look, and perhaps a bit of a sit-down.

Wishb� e Chair www.designtwenty.com

If you are looking for the hottest boots on the block, take advice from Boutique Planet, which has sent The Clanger news of a serious style crush on Frye Boots. Many of their customers also confess to having started a lasting love-affair with their own pair...

The Frye Company was established in 1863 by John A. Frye and is the oldest continuously-operating footwear brand in America. Each pair of Frye boots is bench- crafted and uses the highest quality leathers, all tanned with natural oils. With Frye’s steadfast commitment to quality and painstaking attention to detail, it takes more than 190 steps to make each pair. The company has grown, but each generation has remained dedicated to the art and craft of shoemaking: creating new patterns, discovering new materials; even inventing shoe making machinery. Crafting durable and beautiful footwear has remained Frye’s

Today the classic Harness boot holds a treasured place in the Frye collection and has been featured in many international fashion features.

You can have a look at more boots on Boutique Planet’s shiny new website: www.boutiqueplanet.co.uk/collections/the-frye-company or go on in and try a pair!

JAN-MAR 2014

These boots are made for walkin’, and that’s just what they’ll do! 23

Frye’s Harne� Bo�

Planet Clothing is in the Arcade.Design Twenty is in Castle Quay.They are both really friendly shops that just happen to be very stylish at the same time: pop in and say hi!

Page 24: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

THE BEDFORD CLANGER JAN-MAR 2014

24

the

The above events are all open to the public and we warmly invite you to join us.Visit www.bedfordschool.org.uk/art-music-drama to find out more.

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EXHIBITION: MICHAEL CHANCE10TH Jan 2014 @ 7.30PM

LECTURE: CATHERINE GOODMAN6TH Mar 2014 @ 7.30PM

LECTURE: SARGY MANN6TH Feb 2014 @ 7.30PM

CONCERT: CHORAL SOCIETY 23RD Mar 2014 @ 7.30PM

A RATHER LOVELY LOCALEXCELLENT ALES * GOOD SELECTION OF WINES

HOME OF ‘PIE ON A PLATE’REGULAR EVENTS INCLUDE:

QUIZ NIGHT * MUSIC * PIE NIGHT * POKER RUBY FALLS BRUNCH CLUB

Find out more on facebook/theburnabyarmsbedford66 Stanley Street, Bedford, MK41 7RU 01234 330056

Page 25: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

Jan-Mar 2014

25Lights, camera, action!

FILM

In the age of pop-up shops and community events, it seems almost a no-brainer to think about screening a film yourself. But few consider this option when it comes to screening a film that’s not available anywhere else.

Bedford Film Festival was in fact inspired by someone who has become the epitome of the ‘do-it-yourself’ attitude in Bedford. Kayte Judge’s School of Us came up with the excellent idea of hosting a cycle cinema in Bedford, and the success of their event, and our own, showed that you don’t need a multiplex cinema to screen a great film.

While we will continue to bring high quality non-mainstream cinema and exclusive films to the town through Bedford Film Festival, in between those times there’s no reason why you shouldn’t think about doing it yourselves, or make the most of the groups that already are.

Ground Floor Coffee Shop, Ampthill Road have been screening a free ‘vintage’ film on the first Friday of every month, for a while now. These screenings prove popular, especially with their comfortable sofas for friends to share or couples to cuddle up on while enjoying fresh coffee and homemade cakes. (@gfcoffeeshopuk)

The Place Theatre, Bradgate road have also jumped in, taking on the cycle cinema idea to screen some well-known classics last summer as well as hosting a week of children’s and classic horror films over the October half-term. (www.theplacebedford.org.uk)

and of course, the more long-standing Bedford Film Society screen an excellent season of films that cater for all tastes at Trinity Arts and Leisure, Bedford Sixth Form. www.bedfordfilmsociety.org.uk

as well as the occasional one-off screenings that are hosted by community groups or educational centres like Bedford College and The University of Bedfordshire, there certainly is a lot going on with film in Bedford. And with the small but adequate desire for non-mainstream cinema in Bedford the current balance of provision is about right.

But what if you did want to show something yourself? Collaboration should always be the first step, and Bedford Film Festival will help with guidance and promotion of independent film screenings in the town. The other groups mentioned may also be open to working with you, so think about giving them a call. Film licensing isn’t tricky either; organisations like Filmbank and MPLC have a range of options that might allow you to screen your films for free, if you follow certain conditions.

So if you can’t wait for the next Bedford Film Festival or organised screening then consider having a go yourself. It’ll take a little work but it will be great fun and just might mean you see that film the way you wanted to see it.

Find out more: www.bedfordfilmfestival.orgFollow on twitter: @BedfordFilmFest

Can’t see the film you want? Why not screen it yourself... ... says Paul Hutchinson, director and co-founder of Bedford Film Festival.

Page 26: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

THE BEDFORD CLANGER JAN-MAR 2014

Does the Eagle Gallery have a dedicated eagle themed collection? I feel like they should...26

CultureThe Bedford Clanger’s Culture section is

curated by Paula Walker @pauliwauli2

Bedford Arts and Crafts Centre

Bedford Arts and Crafts Centre in Ampthill Road in the heart of the town, is a ‘not for profit’ community interest company, offering a wide variety of arts and crafts in the day, evening and weekends. Courses include Stained Glass, Ceramics, Floristry and Dressmaking – for the full range, check the website. There really is something for everyone! Parking permits are supplied for their dedicated car park.

Opening times: variable, depending on course timesWebsite: www.bedfordcraftscentre.co.uk

The Higgins

The recently redeveloped Higgins Museum in Castle Lane offers watercolour, print and decorative art collections of international significance, including major collections of works by William Burges and Edward Bawden. Local collections tell the story of Bedford and its people through archaeological finds, natural history, geology and social history.

Open Tuesday – Saturday 11am-5pm and Sunday 2pm-5pmWebsite: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Bromham Mill

This restored watermill, dating from the 18th or early 19th century, is situated in seven acres of water meadows. The Mill is host to a variety of events, including its famous ‘Apple day’ in October and also incorporates an Art Gallery, with regularly changing exhibitions. Bromham Mill Nature Club for children meets once a month between April and October.

Opening times: Sundays and bank holidays 1-5pm from Easter until the end of October.Website: www.friendsofbromhammill.org.uk

The Glenn Miller Museum

The museum, dedicated to the legendary musician and bandleader, is situated in the former control tower at Twinwood Airfield, home to the famous Twinwood Festival. Glenn Miller was based in nearby Milton Ernest during World War Two, performing in the Bedford Corn Exchange and at Twinwoods. He flew from the airfield to his death in December 1944. An Aviation Museum is also on the site.

Opening times: Sundays 10.30-4 between May and OctoberWebsite: www.twinwoodairfield.co.uk

The Eagle GalleryThe Eagle Gallery in Castle Road is an artist-led gallery, run by a cooperative of 45 Bedfordshire artists. Work displayed is wide-ranging, including ceramics, glass, oil painting, watercolour and printmaking. The gallery is also a venue for lectures, demonstrations and workshops, open to the local community.

Opening times: 10-5.30 Monday to SaturdayWebsite: www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk

Page 27: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

JAN-MAR 2014

I think all of BCA’s projects from now on should include cake. 27

Bedford Creative ArtsBedford Creative Arts is a contemporary arts organisation and charity that has worked within the town for over 25 years.

We support and commission artists to make innovative new artwork that is ignited by place and fueled by the contributions of the people that take part. Recent commissions have seen us work with people in the town to lace the front of 1 St Paul’s Square, create and perform a new eight movement choral work for choir and orchestra, make music inspired by how bats see, and bake and decorate a cake in celebration of Bedfordshire’s afternoon tea traditions.

We also deliver a programme of events to support and develop local creative talent, including monthly Creative Bedfordshire networking meetings, an artist development programme and mini commissions – where we offer you £500 to realise a great creative project.

For more informationwww.bedfordcreativearts.org.uk

The Bunyan Museum

The museum tells the story of John Bunyan, one of Bedford’s most remarkable sons, in a series of tableaux, room sets and reconstructions. These, together with clear displays and information panels, make this museum an attractive, informative and accessible museum for visitors of any age. A graphic presentation of Bunyan’s most famous work “The Pilgrim’s Progress” brings this famous story alive.

Opening times: Tuesday – Saturday 11am-4pm from 19 February to 2 November, although private tours can be arranged while the museum is closed. Website: www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk

The Panacea Museum

The museum, situated in Newnham Road, tells the story of the Panacea Society, a remarkable religious community that existed in Bedford for almost a century. It is housed in several buildings: the main one explains the origins and beliefs of the society; the family home of Mabel Barltrop, the founder of the Society can be visited at 12 Albany Road; the Chapel and the Wireless Room, where members could listen to the radio and play games, can also be visited.

Open Days: 10.30-4.30 on the second Saturday of each month between April and September (no booking required)Website: www.panaceatrust.org Group tours can be arranged when the museum is closed by calling 01234 353178 or emailing museum@panacea_society.org

The Choral SocietyBedford Choral Society, which

was formed in 1867, is one of the oldest in the United Kingdom. It performs three or four times each year, usually at the Bedford Corn Exchange and has approximately 130 full-time singers. Performances include classical choral works from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, as well as commissioned works. New members are welcome and contact details can be found on the website.

Rehearsals are on Monday evenings.Website: www.bedfordchoralsociety.org.uk

The Retirement Centre

The Retirement Centre in Rothsay Gardens in The Castle Quarter offers a diverse range of educational, social and recreational opportunities to anyone aged 50 or over, who is not in full-time employment. There are also some courses available to anyone over 18. A wide range of activities, from Watercolour Painting to Pilates, is on offer, as well as social events and visits. Full information, including a course brochure, can be found on the website.

Opening times: 10-4 in term time, plus 4.30-6.30 Tuesdays and Thursdays for twilight courses. Other times are on the website.Website: www.recbedford.co.uk

Octavia, leader of the Panacea Society

Page 28: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

JAN-MAR 2014

28 Now that’s poppy appeal!

GARDENING

In Flanders Fields by John McCrae

In Flanders fi elds the poppies blowBetween the crosses, row on row,That mark our place; and in the skyThe larks, still bravely singing, fl yScarce heard amid the guns below.

This summer will mark 100 years since the outbreak of world war one. More than 16 million dead, more than 20 million wounded - it’s hard to think of a fi tting memorial for such a bitter period in our history.

But there is a way: and anyone can get involved. The Real Poppy Campaign aims to swathe Britain with the blood-red fl owers that have become synonymous with the war: the fi eld or corn poppy is also known as the Flanders poppy because it grew in profusion in the churned ground of the battlefi elds of northern France and Belgium.

The campaign started out in Kent as a project set up by two branches of the Royal British Legion to grow poppies locally and mark the 100-year anniversary. There was a setback when the campaign was refused Lottery funding, but the Legion’s HQ stepped in to make it a nationwide campaign and B&Q rode to the rescue as a backer. Packets of Flanders poppy seed for £2 should be available from every B&Q store, with £1 from each packet being donated to The Royal British Legion and Poppyscotland. If you can’t face a trip to the DIY shed, you’ll fi nd almost every seed merchant and catalogue offers some kind of poppy seed packet - just look for something labelled fi eld or corn poppy and make a donation direct

to the Royal British Legion instead. You can also buy seeds in more substantial quantities from the Real Poppy Campaign website (realpoppy.co.uk).

You don’t need to be “green-fi ngered” to get involved: this really is simple stuff, and anyone can have a go. Like many gardening tasks, sowing the seed takes seconds - but a few minutes of preparation will help to give you a better chance of success. The main thing to remember when sowing fi eld poppy is that - as the name suggests - it is a denizen of disturbed earth: the seeds relish the disturbance brought by the plough (or the tramping of soldiers’ boots), and will only achieve their true glory in this kind of soil. Find a sunny spot, and make sure you remove any weeds that will compete against your fl owers: cast the seed thinly and cover them with the merest whisper of soil, or work the seed in gently using a hand rake. Don’t limit your imagination to your back garden, either - consider fi lling window boxes, “seed bombing” wasteland, guerrilla gardening your bus stop and sowing poppies in the fl ower bed outside your offi ce, too. (But avoid agricultural land or sites of special scientifi c interest, please.)

If you’re trying to ensure your poppies (Latin name Papaver rhoeas, if you want to show off) are fl owering for the August anniversary, you probably want to wait until May to sow, but there’s no harm in getting hold of your poppy seed and starting to prepare the soil now: plus successional sowing (sowing a few seeds every few weeks) from March onwards will give you a continuous display, however the English summer decides to behave.

Unless you want poppies everywhere in 2015, it’s probably worth removing the seedheads once they’re dry - you can then hang the stems up to dry in a paper bag and collect the seed for next year.

The Real Poppy Campaign: Plant Bedford red this springby Jane Perrone

What to doin the garden this spring• If you’re lucky enough to have scented shrubs such as Christmas box (Sarcococca), witch hazel (Hamamelis) or wintersweet (Chimomanthus) in your garden, cut a couple of branches and bring them inside to scent your home.

• Keep feeding the birds and make bird baths are clean and free of ice. This doesn’t have to involve buying expensive feed: they’ll appreciate an apple that’s gone soft, a scattering of raisins or even a handful of worms from a wormery or compost heap.

• If you’re desperate to get growing, try starting a few seed potatoes off in sacks or pots in a frost-free place such as a greenhouse or porch.

• If you’ve left the garden messy over winter to help wildlife (which you should, of course) now is the time for a tidy-up. Cut perennial grasses to the ground in February: use the cuttings as a mulch to save on trips to the compost heap.

Page 29: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

JAN-MAR 2014

29

OUT & ABOUTSustrans are a national charity committed to promoting healthier, cleaner ways to travel around the UK. Yo Higton, the Bedford Sustrans representative, talks here about one of the many great cycle routes in and around Bedford.

West Circular Cycle RouteQUEEN’S PARK, GREAT DENHAM, BIDDENHAMThis wonderful 6 miles route takes you from County Bridge along the river through Queen’s Park and on to Great Denham. From Great Denham follow the cycle path along the side of the golf course until you reach the quiet road of Carnoustie Drive which winds its way through the golf course and leads into Biddenham. Upon entering Biddenham you can admire the thatched cottages before stopping for a half-time drink and bite to eat in the Three Tuns pub. Continue along the road to join the off-road cycle path on Bromham Road until you reach West Grove. Go along the leafy roads of north Queen’s Park to join the off-road path that runs through the middle of this area. You’ll then arrive at the magnifi cent Guru Nanak Gurdwara temple before cycling back along the river to County Bridge. A map of this West Circular Route can be found on Bedford Borough Council’s Website.

AspectsIf you fancy taking a stroll, cycle or jog along the embankment to get some fresh air this Spring, the route from the embankment to Priory Marina takes you right past Aspects Leisure Park. Spring at Aspects includes some wonderful National Theatre LIVE events at Cineworld, where some of the best shows around are shown live at our local cinema! The upcoming shows that look particularly brilliant include: Warhorse, the original London production based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel, which is screened live on 27th Febuary, and The Bolshoi Ballet’s The Golden Age; a satirical ballet by Shostakovich on 30th March. Check out the cineworld website for full listings: www.cineworld.co.uk/events.

Get on your bike!

ASPECTS LEISURE PARKPROUD SPONSORS OF THE OUT & ABOUT PAGE

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THE BEDFORD CLANGER WINTER 2013

10 Start to look hot for the summer!20

Travel and Parking

Now Open

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JAN-MAR 2014

For further information, including prices and a location map of all Council car parks, please visit: www.bedford.gov.uk/parking

We are: Introducing the Mayor’s Free Parking Deal: Offering 2 hours free parking every Saturday in town centre car parks. Building a new bus station for Bedford as part of an £8.8 million regeneration scheme for the bus station area This includes, refurbishing the bus station multi-storey car park, with brand new public toilets and a brand new surface car park Construction of another new surface car park on Prebend Street Freezing car park charges for three years in a rowInvesting in bus services so many now run until 11pm as well as expanding the Sunday timetable

31Vrooom Vrooom!

Bedford town centre is situated on the banks of the River Great Ouse and has been home to a market since King Henry II granted a charter here in 1166.

The town centre boasts a picturesque Embankment, a unique mix of independent and national retailers alongside markets taking place four days a week; all served by excellent transport links.

Car park charges have been frozen for three years in a row at town centre Council-run car parks, bucking the national trend in order to support shoppers and businesses.

Bedford is also investing more to make it easier and more attractive for residents and visitors to experience the town.

Parking in Bedford town centre is simple and affordable.

Parking is free for the first two hours of your stay every Saturday in all town centre council-owned car parks.

Parking is also free in surface car parks and on-street parking bays on Sundays and Bank Holidays with special discounted rates available in multi-storey car parks.

We also offer residents and visitors the ability to pay for their parking using their mobile phone – ideal if you find yourself without spare change!

We take the safety and cleanliness of our car parks very seriously and many have been awarded the nationally recognised Park Mark. This is recognition that a car park has been approved by the Police and measures are in place to ensure the safety of visitors and their vehicles.

Getting to Bedford

By bus: A Park & Ride service operates from the junction of the A6 and A421 at Elstow,

providing regular services to Bedford town centre. Many urban services run until 11pm and the Sunday timetable has been expanded to provide more options to travel. Rural services have been protected to ensure residents from villages can travel into the town centre.

Bedford is also centrally located on the X5 Stagecoach route, linking Oxford and Cambridge.

Timetables of all buses which serve Bedford Borough are available on the Council website: www.bedford.gov.uk/businfo

By car: Bedford is conveniently located between the A1 and M1 and is well served

by the A421 dual carriageway which links the two major roads as well as the A6 and A428.

By train: Bedford is served by three train services. The Midland Mainline means St Pancras

International in central London is just 40 minutes away. While the Thameslink line, which runs from Bedford to Brighton is undergoing a multi-billion pound upgrade to increase the number of seats and services available. Finally, the Marston Vale line operates between Bedford and Bletchley, serving 12 stations in Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

Bedford’s Tourist Information Centre (St Paul’s Square, MK40 1SJ) offers discounted and group travel tickets.

Full timetables are available at www.nationalrail.co.uk/

Bedford benefits from excellent transport links and is easy to reach by car or public transport.

PARKINGHow to get hereand where to park

2 HOURS FREE

PARKING EVERY

SATURDAY!

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THE LISTINGSRegulaR eventsMondaysWeekly

Silver Surfers 2-4pm at Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Student Night From 6pm at The Standard, High Street, Bedford. www.facebook.com/thestandard

The Bear Free Pool Night 7.45pm at The Bear, High St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401020

Open Mic Night acoustic open mic evening from 8pm at The Devonshire arms, 32 Dudley Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 359329 www.devonshirearmsbedford.co.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 Quiz The King’s arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk

Open Mic Night Hosted 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

MonthlyChatterbooks Reading Group Every 1st Monday, 4.30-5.30pm at Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Teen Reading Group Every 3rd Monday, 4.30-5.30pm at Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Big Band Xtra Jam Nite Every last Monday, hosted 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

tuesdaysWeekly

Morning Walks at the RSPB Tuesday 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

25 Restaurant Coffee Morning Coffee and cakes, 10.30am-2pm every Tue & Fri. Bedford College training restaurant, 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Rhyme Time 11-11.30am at Kempston Library, term time only. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Lunch at 25 Restaurant a buffet from the level 3 students at Bedford College training restaurant every Tue & Thu. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Games Club Every other Tuesday, 2-3pm at Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Homework Centre 3.30-5.30pm at Kempston Library, term time only. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Ukulele Club Every other Tuesday, learn or develop your skills with the easiest and most fun instrument to pick up at The Bedford arms, Bromham road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

The Bear Free Pool Night 7.45pm at The Bear, High St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401020

King’s Arms Free Pool Night The King’s arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk

Esquire’s Unplugged Weekly acoustic night at Esquire’s, Bromham road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com

The Old Geezer Band Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington arms, Wellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033

White Horse Quiz Night Teams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

WednesdaysWeekly

Coffee Morning Drop in for coffee between 10 and 1 at Wootton Library, term time only. Tel: 01234 766061 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Lunch at 25 Restaurant a classy two or three course meal, prepared by first year students at Bedford College training restaurant every Wed & Fri. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Student Night From 6pm at The Standard, High Street, Bedford. www.facebook.com/thestandard

Dinner at 25 Restaurant Dinner prepared by first year students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm every Wed & Thu, term-time only. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Stitch ‘n Bitch Every other Wednesday, bring any crafty project to The Bedford arms, 2 Bromham rd, 7.30pm. [email protected] Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

Beer Tasting Club Every other Wednesday, taste a range of bottled ales and discussing their merits. Please register your interest with Bev. 8pm, The Bedford arms, Bromham rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

Bedford Rock Choir The UK’s largest, amateur contemporary choir. no scary auditions and no experience necessary. Try a session for free. 8pm start at The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Irish Ceili/Set Dancing Enjoy Irish dancing at the reading room in Barker’s Lane, Bedford, 8pm each Wednesday evening. £2pp, no partner required. First evening free! Tel Tim: 01234 317847

The Biggest Jam Night in Town Huge open mic night at Esquire’s, Bromham road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com

Charity Quiz Night Fundraising for a different charity each week. £5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Barley Mow Karaoke Every Wednesday evening at The Barley Mow, 72 St Loyes St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 302295

MonthlyKnit & Knatter Every last Wednesday of the month from 2.30pm at Bedford Central Library. Tel: 01234 718178 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

thuRsdaysWeekly

The Frogs’ Chorus Termly early years’ music class (except 20 Feb), booking essential, free trial session. 9.30am at St andrew’s Church, Kimbolton rd. Email: [email protected]

Lunch at 25 Restaurant a buffet from the level 3 students at Bedford College training restaurant every Tue & Thu. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Lunchtime Talks Enjoy a series of lunchtime talks related to our exhibitions programme and permanent displays. Entry £2.50, concessions £2. 1–1.30pm in the Castle room, The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Homework Centre 3.30-5.30pm at Kempston Library, term time only. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Knit & Knatter Every other Thursday at Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Dinner at 25 Restaurant Dinner prepared by first year students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm every Wed & Thu, term-time only. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Jam Night with Mat Roberts Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732

King’s Arms Poker Night The King’s arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk

Monthly

Knit & Natter Every fortnight, 2-3pm at Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

DJ Night From 6pm at The Standard, High Street, Bedford. www.facebook.com/thestandard

Traditional Music Session Every 1st Thursday, join in this folk jam from 8.30pm at The Bedford arms, 2 Bromham rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

The Bedford Arms Book Club Every 2nd Thursday at The Bedford arms, 2 Bromham road. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

Jazz at The Ent Shed Every first Thursday. Main and supporting act with a jam session afterwards so bring your horns. Entry £10 on the door, students £8. The Ent Shed, 118 Castle road. www.facebook.com/jazzatentshed

The Last Chance Ragtime Band Every last Thursday. Live music from 8pm at The Bedford arms, Bromham rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

The Bear Book Club Every 3rd Thursday, read what you like and turn up to discuss it at The Bear, High St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401020

FRidaysWeekly

The Frogs’ Chorus Termly early years’ music class, (except 21 Feb), booking essential, free trial session. 9.30am or 10.30am at St andrew’s Church, Kimbolton rd. Email: [email protected]

25 Restaurant Coffee Morning Coffee and cakes, 10.30am-2pm every Tue & Fri. Bedford College training restaurant, 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Lunch at 25 Restaurant a classy two or three course meal, prepared by first year students at Bedford College training

THE CLANGER LISTINGS ARE SPONSORED BY

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restaurant every Wed & Fri. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Live Band at The Flower Pot Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732

Exec Club Karaoke 9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

DJ Night From 9.30pm at The George & Dragon, Mill St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 345061 www.lemonrock.com/georgeanddragon

Karaoke with Diamond Fire Every 1st & 3rd Friday from 8pm, The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Monthly

Open Reading Group Every last Friday, 2-3pm at Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Poetry Cafe Every last Fri. For Poets and poetry enthusiasts, everyone welcome, 3-4.30pm at Frescoes Coffee House, 20 Mill St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 325747

Vinyl Revival Night Every 2nd Friday. Dust off those LPs & singles and come to play them at The Bedford arms, Bromham rd from 8pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

Bedford Comedy Club Every last Friday, three nationally recognised stand up comedians. 9pm, tickets £9 advance, £10 on the door. Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

satuRdaysWeekly

West End Wendies Theatre Workshops Take 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

Teen Group 2-3pm at Bedford Central Library. Tel: 01234 718178 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Live Music at The King’s Arms The King’s arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk

Live Music at The Flower Pot Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732

Saviours of Saturday Night Club night from 10pm in Holy Moly’s at Esquire’s, Bromham road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com

DJ Night From 9.30pm at The George & Dragon, Mill St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 345061 www.lemonrock.com/georgeanddragon

Fat Lads’ Disco Hosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

Loaded Clubnight @ The Pad Indie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclub

Monthly

Karakoke with Crazy Horse Every last Saturday from 8pm at The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

sundaysWeekly

Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford arms, 2 Bromham rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

Sunday Afternoon Session Live music from 4pm in the bar at Esquire’s, Bromham road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com

Karaoke with Elite From 5pm at The Barley Mow, 72 St Loyes St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 302295

Live Band at The G&D Live music, 6-9pm at The George & Dragon, Mill St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 345061 www.lemonrock.com/georgeanddragon

Live Band at The Bedford Arms Live music from 8pm at The Bedford arms, 2 Bromham rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

Live Band at The Ship Live music at The Ship, St Cuthbert’s St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 267126 www.theshipbedford.co.uk

Jon’s Music Quiz Up to £300 prize money! The Pheasant, 300 Kimbolton road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409301

White Horse Quiz Night Teams 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

Karaoke Night With Lee Marchant, 9pm-late at The George & Dragon, Mill St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 345061 www.lemonrock.com/georgeanddragon

Monthly

Sunday Stroll Every 1st Sunday join Forest Volunteers on this gentle stroll around the Millennium Country Park, £1 entry, 10.30am-12pm. Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station road, Marston Moretaine. Tel: 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org

Book Group Every last Sunday at The Wellington arms from 5pm, Wellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033

eXhiBitionsExhibition: Recording BritainThursday 9th January 2014 - Thursday 20th March 2014The result of a unique documentary project initiated at the start of the Second World War, showing pictures that were ‘sympathetic records’ of vulnerable people, landscapes and lifestyles. In the Sir William Harpur Gallery, entry £3.50, concessions £2.80. The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Exhibition: A National Art - Watercolour & the British Landscape TraditionSaturday 23rd november 2013 - Sunday 27th april 2014Exploring the landscapes of the great watercolourists of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The work of Cotman, Girtin and Turner will be shown alongside nash, ravilious and Piper. Wixamtree Gallery, free entry. The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Exhibition: Bawden’s BritainSaturday 7th December 2013 - Sunday 11th May 2014Celebrating Edward Bawden’s unique take on Britain and its inhabitants, both human and animal. Free entry. The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Exhibition: She-Bop-a-LulaFriday 24 January 2014 – Thursday 27 March 2014a collection of 45 photographs of women by women photographers. rock City art, 26 Castle Lane, Bedford.Tel: 01234 910448 www.rockcityart.com [email protected]

listingsWednesday 1st JanuaryPuss in BootsThis year’s panto, given the Bedford Pantomime Company treatment with a live band, every child invited on stage. Various times, tickets £39 per family. Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Beatlejam 2014Join Mat Roberts and friends for the first Wednesday Jam night of the year.. with a Beatles theme. Everyone knows a Beatles song! From 8.30pm at Esquire’s, Bromham road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com

thursday 2nd January

Puss in Boots See Wed 1 Jan. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Reggae BBQ at The Bear, High St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401020

The London Trumpet Ensemble Jazz evening featuring Percy Pursglove, Steve Fishwick and robbie robson, supported by The Olly Sarkar Quartet. Entry £10 on the door, students £8. The Ent Shed, 118 Castle road. www.facebook.com/jazzatentshed

Friday 3rd JanuaryBedford Art Society Meeting Local artist, Michael Croker, gives a demonstration relating to a current exhibition. 7.15-9.30pm, free entry members, £5 visitors. Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford. Tel: Jean Paterson 01234 307210 www.bedsartsociety.co.uk

Puss in Boots See Wed 1 Jan. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

saturday 4th JanuaryNew Year in Vienna New Year’s ConcertBedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.ukCharity Music NightFor Childreach International at The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

sunday 5th JanuarySunday StrollJoin Forest Volunteers on this gentle stroll around the Millennium Country Park. 10.30am-12 noon, cost £1, no booking necessary. The Forest Centre, Station road, Marston Moretaine. Tel: 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org

Monday 6th JanuaryChatterbooks 4.30-5.30pm, 8-12 year olds, Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453

tuesday 7th JanuaryRhymetime11-11.30am, Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453

Wednesday 8th JanuaryHealing Reiki Drum Meditation Sessions relaxing Drum and reiki Healing at a fraction of the cost of a one to one session. £7, 6.45-8.30pm at the Friends Meeting House, Lansdowne road. Elizabeth Drake Tel: 07816236659 [email protected]

Chatterbooks 4.30-5.30pm, 8-12 year olds, Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 27645

Funtimes 11am, stories, rhymes, songs, puzzles and crafts at Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

The Bedford Bee - an irreverent weekly paper of 1879 an illustrated talk by nick Wilde for Bedford architectural archaeological & Local History Society from 7.30 pm at Putnoe Heights Church & Community Centre. Members free, visitors £2. Tel: 01234 365095 www.baalhs.org.uk

Private Peaceful Marking the Centenary of the First World War, a play by Children’s Laureate, Michael Morpurgo, award-winning author of War Horse. Tickets £12 (£10 concessions). 7.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

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thursday 9th JanuaryDoric String Quartetat Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 213722 [email protected] White Horse’s 9th Birthday PartyFree buffet and live entertainment by rik King. The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Spanish Meet Up Group 8pm at The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Knit & Natter 2-3pm, Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453

Friday 10th JanuaryHealing Guided Meditation Session relax to my specially written healing meditations and meet like minded people. £10, 7-9pm in Bedford. Elizabeth Drake Tel: 07816236659 [email protected]

Without ReasonLive music from 8pm at The Bear, High St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401020

saturday 11th JanuaryPistonzLive band from 8.30pm at The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Saturday Story Club11-11.30am Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453

Monday 13th JanuaryBedford Morris MenDancing for Plough Monday at 7.30pm at The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Knit & Natter 2.30-3.30pm at Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

tuesday 14th JanuaryRhymetime11-11.30am, Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453

Wednesday 15th JanuaryAfternoon Social/Dance with John Leeat the Bedford Organ & Keyboard Club, 2-4.30pm, members £2.50, non-members £5, pay at door. addison Centre, Kempston, Bedford. Tel: 01234 344423 www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/BedfordSpiritual & Psychic Development GroupExplore spiritual and psychic subjects and meet like minded people. £10, 7-9pm at the Friends Meeting House, Lansdowne road. Elizabeth Drake Tel: 07816236659 [email protected]

Ouse Muse Poetry & Spoken Word Open MicJoint session with The Circus of Illustration, guest poet John Greening. 8pm Harpurs, 46-48 Tavistock St. £3/£2. Email: [email protected]

thursday 16th JanuaryRecording Britainan introduction to the recording Britain exhibition on loan from the Victoria & albert Museum. 1-1.30pm, £2.50, concessions £2. The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Bedford Skeptics in the Pub Topical talk and discussion. 7pm for 7.30pm start, free admission at The White Horse, newnham avenue. www.bedford.skepticsinthepub.org

saturday 18th JanuaryRuby Falls Brunch Clubamerican style brunch offering pancakes, bacon and maple syrup, £5 per box. 12-2pm at The Burnaby arms, 66 Stanley Street. Tel: 01234 330 056

Philharmonia OrchestraVivaldi The Four Seasons at Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

sunday 19th JanuaryCrafternoon CabaretFeaturing a host of fantastic cabaret performances. Get creative, develop your craft skills and watch performances by exciting new and established acts on the cabaret and comedy scene. 2pm, 16ys+ only, entry £10 including materials. The Place Theatre, Bradgate

road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

Monday 20th JanuaryBeguiled by Betjemana selection of Sir John Betjeman’s poetry set to music by composers John Gould and Donald Swann. Tickets £10, concessions £8. 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

Wednesday 22nd JanuaryTea Dance Winter Balla special Grand Winter Ball. Dance to the live music of robert Peel. Enjoy cakes, sandwiches and other refreshments, as well as the free ‘Gala’ Raffle at Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Funtimes 11am, stories, rhymes, songs, puzzles and crafts at Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

25 Restaurant Burns Night Dinner Themed evening, dinner prepared by students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Healing Reiki Drum Meditation Sessions relaxing Drum and reiki Healing at a fraction of the cost of a one to one session. £7, 6.45-8.30pm at the Friends Meeting House, Lansdowne road. Elizabeth Drake Tel: 07816236659 [email protected]

Swans on the Ouse Muse a great opportunity to hear selected works by local poets expressed and imagined by local performers in a theatrical setting. 11yrs+, tickets £5, 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

thursday 23rd JanuaryRoll CreditsHow It Ended Productions create work that is visual, playful and full of heart and in 2013 became artists In residence at the UK Centre for Carnival arts in Luton. 15yrs+, tickets £10, concessions £8.50, 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

25 Restaurant Burns Night Dinner Themed evening, dinner prepared by students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Burns’ Night at The White Horse 2 course meal, piper, poetry and Peter on the accordion. £16pp, 7pm at The White Horse, newnham avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Friday 24th JanuarySimon & Garfunkel Through The YearsWatch Paul Simon and art Garfunkel give their personal accounts of their rise to fame, and listen to wonderful live performances by Bookends. Tickets £12, concessions £10, 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk www.thebookendsshow.co.uk

C91Live music from 8pm at The Bear, High St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401020

saturday 25th JanuaryBirthday Concert of the SinfoniaBedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

sunday 26th JanuaryClare Pollard: Ovid’s HeroinesWritten in rome somewhere between 25 and 16BC, this was once Ovid’s most popular text, a series of poems in the voices of women from Greek and roman myth. 14yrs+, tickets £7.50, 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

Monday 27th JanuaryWilliam McGonagall’s Miscellany of Poetic Gemsan audience with Scotland’s other national bard - the World’s worst poet, responsible for The Tay Bridge Disaster and other pieces so sublimely awful, they are brilliant. Tickets £10, concessions £8, 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

Knit & Natter2.30-3.30pm at Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

Wednesday 29th JanuarySpiritual & Psychic Development GroupExplore spiritual and psychic subjects and meet like minded people. £10, 7-9pm at the Friends Meeting House, Lansdowne road. Elizabeth Drake Tel: 07816236659 [email protected]

Chatterbooks4.30-5.30pm, 8-12 year olds, Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

Christine Bovill performs PIAF a powerful musical homage to one of France’s most endearing icons, celebrating some of her best known songs, threaded with Piafs story, and Christines own remarkable journey in the world of chanson. Tickets £16, concessions £14, 8pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

thursday 30th JanuaryLunchtime talk: Bawden’s Britainan introduction to the exhibition Bawden’s Britain, exploring Edward Bawden’s attachment to the Essex landscape as represented in some of his best-known and most vibrant linocuts. 1-1.30pm, entry £2.50, concessions £2. The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Home Truths: A double billEdinburgh Fringe sell-out writer and performer, Ginny Davis, exposes the funny side of family life with teenagers in a double bill of two five star plays. 14yrs+, tickets £10, concessions £8.50, 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.ukwww.ginnydavis.com

Friday 31st JanuaryKent DuchaineLive music in Holy Moly’s Esquire’s, Bromham road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com

Home Truths: A double bill Edinburgh Fringe sell-out writer and performer, Ginny Davis, exposes the funny side of family life with teenagers in a double bill of two five star plays. 14yrs+, tickets £10, concessions £8.50, 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk www.ginnydavis.com

Down Memory Lane - A Look Back at Last Year 11am-12pm at Bedford Central Library. Tel: 01234 718178

Bedford Comedy ClubThree nationally recognised stand up comedians. 9pm, tickets £9 advance, £10 on the door. Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

saturday 1st FebruaryWe Will Be FreeBased around the true story of the Tolpuddle Martyrs, this story is told using cartoons and animation; through puppetry and musical arrangements by folk singer and squeezebox player John Kirkpatrick. 11yrs+, tickets £10, concessions £8.50, 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk

Chinese New Year Crafts10am-12pm, Wootton Library. Tel: 01234 766061

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sunday 2nd FebruaryFrom Stage To Screenan evening of top class singing, and fabulous music, celebrating the songs from well-known movies. Tickets £12, concessions £10, 3pm and 7pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718112 www.theplacebedford.org.uk www.magnetictheatre.com

tuesday 4th FebruaryWhere it Was, There it Was.....Michal Spišiak and Emma Matthews are recent graduates of the University of Bedfordshire and they create visually powerful, physical theatre that speaks to an international audience. 6.30pm, tickets £8/£5. University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Bedford. Tel: 01234 793197 [email protected] www.beds.ac.uk/theatre

Wednesday 5th FebruaryPhilharmonia Orchestranicholas Collon conducts Britten and Vaughan Williams. 7.30pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Funtimes 11am, stories, rhymes, songs, puzzles and crafts at Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

thursday 6th FebruaryThe Osian roberts Steve Fishwick SextetFeaturing Frank Basile, supported by The Vittorio Mura Quartet. Entry £10 on the door, students £8. The Ent Shed, 118 Castle road. www.facebook.com/jazzatentshed

Friday 7th FebruaryBedford Art Society MeetingJane rhodes gives a demonstration in pastels encouraging us to join in her enthusiasm. 7.15-9.30pm, free entry members, £5 visitors. Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford. Tel: Jean Paterson 01234 307210 www.bedsartsociety.co.uk

Paul Chowdhry - PC’s WorldHost of Channel 4’s Stand Up For The Week and Star of BBC1’s Live at the apollo. 8pm,

Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

saturday 8th FebruaryWonderfuel Drama & PlayThe basics of innocent clowning, 8-12 year olds, £25 per child. 10am-1pm at St Cuthbert’s Hall, newnham St, Bedford. www.wonderfuelproductions.com

DraculaJohn Ginman adapts Bram Stoker’s timeless gothic thriller about a small group of young men and women, lead by Professor Van Helsing. Tickets £10 (£8 concessions). 7.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk Dan Le Sac VS Scroobius Pip

The Pad Presents this electronic Hip Hip duo. Free aftershow Party with your hand stamp back at The Pad nightclub. Doors 7.30pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

sunday 9th FebruaryThe Black Dyke Band It’s roots dating as far back as 1816, the Black Dyke Band is the most successful contesting band and recorded band in the world. Starts 2.30pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Monday 10th FebruaryKnit & Natter2.30-3.30pm at Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

Bedford’s River & Parks Heritage a talk by David Fowler, 7-8.30pm, £1 entry, Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453

tuesday 11th FebruaryBedford in Camera a talk by nigel Lutt, 2.30pm 4pm, £1 entry, Bedford Central Library. Tel: 01234 718178

Wednesday 12th FebruaryTea DanceBallroom, Latin american, Sequence Dances, Party Dances & Old Time. Price includes refreshments. Tickets £3.50 advance, £4 on the day, starts 2pm at the Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 annie Higgs: [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

25 Restaurant Valentine’s DinnerThemed evening, dinner prepared by students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

The Art of William Morrisan illustrated talk by Helen Elletson for Bedford architectural archaeological & Local History Society from 7.30 pm at Putnoe Heights Church & Community Centre. Members free, visitors £2. Tel: 01234 365095 www.baalhs.org.uk

Chatterbooks4.30-5.30pm, 8-12 year olds, Wootton Library. Tel: 01234 766061

Klaus Live music from 8pm at The Bear, High St, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401020

thursday 13th FebruaryWatercolour & the British landscape traditiona lunchtime talk exploring aspects of British landscape painting as reflected in the Cecil Higgins Collection of watercolours. £2-£2.50, 1-1.30pm at The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

25 Restaurant Valentine’s DinnerThemed evening, dinner prepared by students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm. 5th

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floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Bedford Ghosts a talk by Damian O’Dell, 7-8.30pm, £1 entry, Putnoe Library. Tel: 01234 276462

saturday 15th FebruaryLMO - Let Mama Out!80s & 90s retro Dance Party. Drink specials and free admission, you get to help create the playlist. 8-11.30pm at The Pad nightclub, 2 Lurke St, Bedford. facebook/LetMamaOut

tuesday 18th FebruaryStoryscapeUse paint and words to depict somewhere special. Family session. First come, first served, 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm. £2.20 per child (3yrs+). The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Milestones & Turnpike Roadsa talk by Mike Knight for The Bedford national Trust association from 2pm at The addison Centre, Kempston

An evening with Paul Burston 7.30-9.30pm at Bedford Central Library. Tel: 01234 718178

Wednesday 19th FebruaryNever-ending Landscapeadd your individual landscape composition to our imaginary panorama. Family session. First come, first served, 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm. £2.20 per child (3yrs+). The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Funtimes 11am, stories, rhymes, songs, puzzles and crafts at Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

Friend Or Foe The Musicala lively adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s tale of wartime loss and separation. Songs, script and inspirational choreography to enchant the young and not so young. 7.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk www.friendorfoethemusical.com

thursday 20th FebruaryFriend Or Foe The MusicalSee 19th February. 2pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Live Professional Wrestling Returns a night of Pro-Wrestling featuring British Wrestling stars along with some of the most exciting competitors from across the world. 7.30pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Ouse Muse Poetry & Spoken Word Open Mic 8pm Harpurs, 46-48 Tavistock St. £3/£2. Email: [email protected]

Friday 21st FebruaryWondergroundThe amazing earth, the animals and forces that work on our landscape. Make a plastic bottle wormery. Family session. First come, first served, 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm. £2.20 per child (3yrs+). The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Friend Or Foe The Musical See 19th February. 2pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Lee Hurst: Things That Make You Go Aaarggh!!! Stand up comic Lee Hurst travels throughout Britain to find out what really winds you up. 8pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

saturday 22nd FebruaryFriend Or Foe The MusicalSee 19th February. 2pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Safari Adventure Crafts10.30am-12pm, Wootton Library. Tel: 01234 766061

Russell Kane: SmallnessWe Brits love it - being tiny but fierce, close

but distant. russell Kane returns with a new blisteringly big-small show. 8pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk www.russellkane.co.uk

Monday 24th FebruaryKnit & Natter2.30-3.30pm at Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

Wednesday 26th FebruaryChatterbooks4.30-5.30pm, 8-12 year olds, Bromham Library. Tel: 01234 824391

thursday 27th February5* Dining at 25 RestaurantDinner prepared by students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

A Tale of Ancient Darkness a ground-breaking stage adaptation of the internationally best-selling series of stories ‘Chronicles of ancient Darkness’, by Michelle Paver. Tickets £6 (concessions £5), 7.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Ed Byrne: Roaring Forties Ed Byrne is now in his Forties. While for others this might result in a crisis that prompts the purchase of a sportscar, Ed embraces middle age with open arms. 8pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Friday 28th FebruaryWinter LectureMy House is between the Post Office and the Police Station. a talk by Peter avery, Edward Bawden’s studio assistant for some of his best-known works. Complimentary drink included before the lecture, plus a chance to see the exhibition Bawden’s Britain. 5.30-7.30pm (lecture 6-7pm), booking essential, tickets £10, concessions £8. The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

A Tale of Ancient Darkness See 27 Feb. Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Down Memory Lane - Winter Olympic Wannabes! 11am-12pm at Bedford Central Library. Tel: 01234 718178

saturday 1st MarchA Tale of Ancient Darkness See 27 Feb. Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Monday 3rd MarchThe Reduced Shakespeare Company: The Complete Word of God (abridged)From fig leaves to Final Judgment, the boys tackle the great theological questions: Did adam and Eve have navels? Did Moses really look like Charlton Heston? Tickets £14 (£12 concessions). 7.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

tuesday 4th MarchThe Reduced Shakespeare Company: The Complete Word of God (abridged)See 3rd March. 7.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Wednesday 5th MarchSt David’s Day at 25 RestaurantThemed evening, dinner prepared by students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

thursday 6th MarchLocal landscapesa tour of Bedfordshire landscapes as seen through the eyes of local artists including Thomas Fisher (1772-1836) and Bradford rudge (1813-1885). The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

The Chris Maddock QuartetFeaturing Clark Tracey, arnie Somogyi and Mark ridout. Supported by The reiss Ellis Beckles Quartet. Entry £10 on the door, students £8. The Ent Shed, 118 Castle road. www.facebook.com/jazzatentshed

Friday 7th MarchBedford Art Society Meetingart Historian Caroline Bacon gives a talk on art History choosing her own theme on the night. 7.15-9.30pm, free entry members, £5 visitors. Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford. Tel: Jean Paterson 01234 307210 www.bedsartsociety.co.uk

How to Occupy an Oil Riga playful and provocative show for everyone who ever wanted to change anything. 7.30pm, tickets £10/£7. University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Bedford. Tel: 01234 793197 [email protected] www.beds.ac.uk/theatre

saturday 8th MarchArtificial Thingsa cinematic and evocative production, Stopgap Dance Company creates a compact world of riddles that question our notions about unity and co-existence. 7.30pm, tickets £10/£7. University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Bedford. Tel: 01234 793197 [email protected] www.beds.ac.uk/theatre http://stopgapdance.com/productions/artificial-things-2013-stage

tuesday 11th MarchJohn Piper - A Modern Romantica talk by art historian, critic and biographer, Frances Spalding - Professor of art History at newcastle University. Entry £6. 7.30pm at The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Wednesday 12th March Tea DanceBallroom, Latin american, Sequence Dances, Party Dances & Old Time. Price includes refreshments. Tickets £3.50 advance, £4.00 on the day, starts 2pm at the Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 annie Higgs: [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Dom JuanMolière’s Dom Juan is not just a version of the myth of the great seducer; the hero is also a free thinker, defying God to do his worst. French language production. Tickets £4 (concessions £3), 4.45pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Tales of Bedford’s High Streetan illustrated talk by richard Wildman for Bedford architectural archaeological & Local History Society from 7.30 pm at Putnoe Heights Church & Community Centre. Members free, visitors £2. Tel: 01234 365095 www.baalhs.org.uk

Philharmonia Orchestra: Choir of Kings College Cambridge, Zadok The PriestThe Choir of King’s College, Cambridge embodies the great British choral tradition, boasting an illustrious history that stretches back to the fifteenth century. 7.30pm, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

thursday 13th MarchQuiz Night at 25 RestaurantThemed evening, dinner prepared by students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Dom JuanSee 12 March. 7.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

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Friday 14th March The Irish House PartyStarring all Ireland Champion musicians, fantastic presenters with great banter and not forgetting some excellent Irish dancing. 7.30pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk www.theirishhouseparty.com

saturday 15th MarchWonderfuel Music Improv for TeensCreative Club workshop for 13 - 16 year olds who enjoy music and play, £25 per child. 10am-1pm at St Cuthbert’s Hall, newnham St, Bedford. www.wonderfuelproductions.com

Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra: National StyleDiscover how many 19th Century composers turned to their country’s folk song and dance traditions for inspiration in their art music. With soloist pianist, robert Thompson. 7.30pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

tuesday 18th MarchJason Manford: First World Problems Featuring a wealth of comedy anecdotes, misunderstandings and audience banter delivered with Jason’s likeable charm and teasingly intelligent wit. 8pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Wednesday 19th MarchHouse DramaOriginal work performed by students representing each of the six day houses at Bedford School. 6.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

St Patrick’s Day at 25 RestaurantThemed evening, dinner prepared by students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25Ouse Muse Poetry & Spoken Word Open MicGuest poet Marianne Burton. 8pm Harpurs, 46-48 Tavistock St. £3/£2. Email: [email protected]

Jason Manford: First World Problems See Tue 18th. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

thursday 20th MarchHidden Landscapes: Bedford’s Prehistoric Monuments Find out how archaeology has revealed a 4,500 year old network of man-made monuments that became the focus for centuries of ceremonies and burials. The Higgins art Gallery and Museum, Castle Lane, Bedford. Tel: 01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

saturday 22nd MarchIts Dark OutsidePuppetry, mask, animation and live performance, delivering a grand epic western about redemption and dementia. Tickets £10 (£8 concessions). 7.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Wednesday 26th MarchThe Searchers in Concert The Searchers remarkable career continues. See classic hits as, Sweets For My Sweet; needles and Pins and Don’t Throw Your Love away. 7.30pm, Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

thursday 27th MarchBollywood Night at 25 RestaurantThemed evening, dinner prepared by students at Bedford College training restaurant at 7pm. 5th floor, Bedford College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

Friday 28th MarchTunnelsCreated for an audience of six 13–19 year olds with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) and their companions. an enchanting multi-sensory production that fuses live music, sign and movement. 7.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

saturday 29th MarchTunnelsSee 28th March. 2.30pm at Bedford School Theatre, De Parys avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Noasis (Oasis Tribute) plus Missing Andy, Violet Class & 808 State DJSa 20 year anniversary tribute to Oasis with a full supporting line up of DJs and bands, including Bez from the Happy Mondays. Meet up at number 13 from 6pm. Main auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Philharmonia OrchestraBedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 [email protected] www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

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Page 38: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

The one time I threw a boomerang I lost it in a tree. Sharon’s right, magnets are much better.

repressive and unbearable and within her fi rst year at the school she started to rebel against her upbringing. She dropped her Christian name, saying she found it vulgar and sentimental. Forever more she would be known simply as Carrington.

Her fellow students and friends at the Slade were to become some of the brightest stars of the British art world; Paul Nash, Stanley Spencer, CRW Nevinson and Mark Gertler. But whilst they went on to have glittering careers, hers stalled after she graduated, and for a time she was known more for her associations with the group of artists and writers known as the Bloomsbury group, than for her work.

There were a number of reasons for this. The year Carrington entered the Slade was a year of great change in British art. The fi rst Post-Impressionist exhibition was held in London, introducing the work of Van Gogh, Cezanne and Picasso to England. Artists like Carrington, whose talent for drawing perfectly suited the Slade’s ideal of what an artist should be, found

Great Bedfordians:Dora Carrington by Victoria Partridge, Keeper of Fine and Decorative Arts at The Higgins

38

JAN-MAR 2014

The Last Wordby Reverend Sharon Grenham-Toze, Managing Chaplain at HMP Bedford

Unrequited love and Dora Carrington go hand in hand, and no, I’m not talking about her relationship with the homosexual writer Lytton Stratchey, but about her relationship with Bedford and in particular me.

I love Dora Carrington. There, I’ve said it. It’s been like this for years. We went to the same school you see, admittedly at slightly different times, me in 1993 her in 1903. But whilst I remained happily in Bedford, Dora couldn’t wait to get away.

Originally living on De Parys the family moved to Rothsay Gardens and remained there until all fi ve of the Carrington children were educated. Art was always appreciated in their house and there were reproductions of Millais, Velazquez and Alma Tadema hanging on the walls. At school Dora excelled at drawing and when she was 17 her teachers recommended she should apply to the Slade School of Art in London.

Entering the Slade in 1910 was the beginning of Carrington’s life. She had found living in Bedford

themselves torn between the new style of art and what their tutors where asking of them.

This and a lack of confi dence in her own work led her to being described ‘as the most neglected serious painter of her generation’.

These days her work is exhibited in all of the major galleries, there has been a fi lm of her life starring Emma Thompson, and sales of her work increase in value yearly. Nowhere is she more appreciated than in Bedford, the paintings The Higgins has in its collection are amongst the most requested and talks on Carrington are always packed with people travelling long distances to hear about her work.

‘Night night, don’t let the bed bugs bite.’ I remember my grandmother wishing me goodnight with this when I was very little, and it always made me feel that all was right with the world. I say it to my youngsters now – a little mantra of safety, security and love.

There are so many ways we can communicate love to those around us – the regular phone call to an elderly parent, a cup of tea in bed in the early hours before work,

a smile to brighten a rubbish day, pacing the fl oor all night with a crying baby. Each time we do what we do it says, ‘everything’s OK, I’m here and you’re not alone.’

It’s the whole ‘actions speak louder than words’ thing – a person might say ‘I love you’ but those words only really take on their full weight when they’re acted out through storms, through challenge and often through the passage of years.

It’s a universal need, to

want to be loved, and I think most of us have also grasped the idea that to receive love we have to fi nd a way to give it too. What’s that old ABBA song – ‘Love is a Boomerang’? A relationship that’s all one-sided never lasts for long.

So, if we have to give to receive, here’s a question. Are we living a loving kind of life? By that I mean, whatever our relationship status, are we patient, kind, and forgiving? Do others fi nd us irritable, or resentful, jealous or arrogant? When life is tough, are we the moaning Minnie or the bearer of hope and a bit of a twinkle? Do we take time to notice the little things – appreciating the child’s drawing, or the colour of the sky?

Loving the world around us, loving the life we’re living (whatever that life may throw at us), and making sure those close to us know we care, that we’re there and they’re not alone – I don’t know about a boomerang, I think that’ll make us a stonking great magnet!

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BedPop wants to help develop

creative and imaginative pop up

projects in and around Bedford

town centre.

We’re interested in empty shops, open

spaces and unusal venues.

Have you got an idea? Would you like to

work with us to make it happen?

Email [email protected] and let’s see

what we can make happen in Bedford.

Page 40: The Bedford Clanger   January - March 2014

9th January - 20th March 2014

Barbara Jones Savage’s Yard, Kings Lynn, Norfolk, 1942, watercolour on paper © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Recording BritainEntry £3.50

Conc. £2.80

www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Phone: 01234 718618

Exhibition organised by the Victoria and Albert

Museum, London