ISSUE 21: MAY 2013FREE

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

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

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

LEttER FRom thE EdItoR

This month the Clanger celebrates all things ale, from the Bamberg Beer Festival to the White Park Brewery and Bedford’s many and varied pubs in between. We hear from Wells & Young’s and interview Stephen at the Happy Brewer. It’ll come as no surprise that this month’s Great Bedfordian is Charles Wells. There’s loads of live music to enjoy this month, much of it taking place in

pubs such as the King’s Arms, Bedford Arms and the Flower Pot, so what are you waiting for?Cheers!Erica xPS: Look at our lovely new ‘display solu-tion’ (commonly known as a vase). We are introducing these in a limited number of locations around town. If you are a Clanger stockist and would like one for your shop/bar/cafe/pub/restaurant then get in touch and we’ll bring one round.

by Edward KeechThe development of bilateral contact between the citizens of Bedford and our Twinning towns, whether that be through school exchanges, work experience placements, sports competitions, musical concerts or simply friendships established between visiting groups over the years, is important. You only have to read the Council’s own website to see that it clearly understands the benefits that can be derived from twinning activities. The relationship with Bamberg was formalised back in 1977 and at the time was a real coup for Bedford, since this is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, left largely undamaged by World War II and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Council in Bamberg value highly their contact with partner towns for the cultural benefits derived from it. As, in the future, there will be no dedi-cated member of council staff for twinning, we have offered.for our own activities, events or contacts relating to Bamberg. In the future absence of a dedicated member of Council staff for twinning, we have offered

to provide a contact point and help wher-ever possible, although principally schools and other organizations will be responsible for making their own arrangements with bodies there. All we can do is to try and keep going until there are better times. The Association exists for the benefit of all in the town and we are not a private club just for the few. If any Clanger readers are interested in becoming members, they can visit our website for details as they would be most welcome. Costs of events throughout the year are kept to a minimum and indeed our group visit to Bamberg this September for almost a week is likely to be no more than £300 per person including travel, two day trips during the stay and ac-commodation provided by hosts in the city. It is our turn to visit this year and a group from Bamberg will visit Bedford next year.

It is impossible to overstate the degree of friendship and welcome that is shown towards us by the Oberbürgermeister, his staff and the residents of the city. Normally there is an official welcome reception in the historic “Alte Rathaus” (old Town Hall) and a farewell party, with an opportunity to try the lovely beers brewed locally. Those who attend the town’s Bamberg Springfest in May will be well aware of their beers. Lack of German fluency is no problem either as most have a good knowledge of English which they are keen to use whenever possible. A visit to Bamberg is certainly a rewarding experience.

For further information go to:http://www.bedfordbamberg.org.uk/www.bedford.gov.uk (town twinning)

MAY 2013THE BEDFORD CLANGER

2 Elderflower champagne. How chic!

UNIQUE BEdFoRd

homEtoWN toURISt BEdFoRd aNd BamBERg The IMPorTAnCe oF TwInnInG

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

is read by around 10,000 people.

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

gemma Rogers on 07799067052

email:bedfordclangerads@gmail.com

thE happy BREWER, 15 UnIon STreeT, BedFord MK40 2SF www.ThehAPPYBrewer.CoM tEL: 01234 353856

As this edition of The Bedford Clanger is the Beer Issue, where better to head for our monthly look at independent retailers, than the happy Brewer. This heaven for home brewers has been trading on Union Street since 1985. Three years ago, Stephen and Dawn Black took over the reins and the business is going from strength to strength. No longer the preserve of beardy beer buffs, home brew-ing and wine making is growing in popular-ity. From seasoned brewers to complete beginners, Stephen has a warm welcome for everyone.

Bedford Clanger: What was your reason for getting involved in the business?Stephen Black: Dawn and I took on the shop as a hobby. We had been customers of the Happy Brewer for 22 years and are passionate about home brewing. Running the shop is great fun. If you come in here on a Saturday the shop is packed and the atmosphere is electric!

BC: Has the recession had had an impact on the home brewing sector?SB: The recession has improved our business. While people will always go to the pub, it is much cheaper to brew from a kit and many of our customers have converted their garages and sheds into bars. Years ago our average customer would have been a middle aged family man. Now we attract a lot more youngsters whose wages don’t allow them to go to the pub. We also have a great many female customers.

BC: How many different variet-ies do you sell?SB: 127 different beer styles and 90+ wine varieties.

BC: When is your busiest time?SB: Once we’re into the country fruit season (from late June until November) the shop is rammed. We have customers coming in for advice, to exchange recipes; there’s such a buzz around the place. You walk out [at the end of the day] with the biggest smile on your face!

BC: Has the Happy Brewer embraced the

internet?SB: We are on Facebook and Twitter and have a thriving online shop which accounts for 80% of the business. We have an online ‘pay and collect’ service. Customers can select and pay for products on line and then come to the shop to pick them up. People prefer to meet face-to-face and we’re always on hand to offer advice (even to

people who buy their home brew kits from Wilkos!).

BC: Can you share your Elderflower Champagne recipe with our readers?SB: With pleasure! Just make sure you use strong glass bottles to avoid them explod-ing!

reCIPe:ELdERFLoWER ChampagNEMakes about 6 litres

INgREdIENtS4 litres hot water700g sugarJuice & zest of 4 lemons2 tablespoons of white wine vinegarApprox 15 elderflower heads in full bloomA pinch of dried yeast (you may not need this)Strong glass bottles

mEthod:1.Put the hot water and sugar into a large sterilised container and stir until the sugar dissolves. Top up with cold water so you have 6 litres of liquid in total.2.Add the lemon juice and zest, vinegar and the flower heads & stir gently.3.Cover & leave to ferment in a cool, airy place for a couple of days. It it’s not becoming foamy & beginning to ferment add half a tsp of yeast.4.Leave the mixture to ferment for a further 4 days. Strain the liquid through a straining bag and decant into sterilised strong glass bottles with Champagne stop-pers or ‘Grolsch’ style stoppers.5.Seal and leave to ferment in the bottles for at least a week before serving chilled. The ‘Champagne’ should keep in the bottles for several months. Store in a cool dry place.

Stephen Black: Smooth hoperator

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WE aRE BEdFoRd

may have ceased active

delivery, but its spirit and legacy lives on.

The Facebook group continues to grow and recently We Are Bedford’s founders (Kayte Judge and Erica Roffe) have been invited by Action for Market Towns (AMT) to encourage other towns to reimagine their

empty shops through pop-up activities. “It’s easy to forget how much we achieved with very little funding and a lot of goodwill,” said Erica Roffe. “To tell our story and to inspire other towns to create empty shop projects of their own is wonderful. The Towns Alive workshops are a great oppor-tunity for us to promote Bedford to a wider audience and our enthusiasm for We Are Bedford and for our town is infectious.”

www.towns.org.ukwww.wearebedford.co.uk @wearebed-ford and on Facebook

MUSICoriginally a monthly event, esquires’ Sunday sessions started out 10 years ago and the first band to play were ‘Fun Ya Mum’. “After a couple of months we had so

many bands wanting to play Danny’s Bar that it was decided to hold it every week,” said Esquires’ Pete Burridge who books and promotes the sessions. “It really has gone from strength to strength and we’d recom-mend you get there early to get a seat when ‘Cherry Lee Mewis and her Blues Jems play on May 11th. On Sunday May 19th Es-quires is holding a special Sunday Session in memory of their old friend ‘Mr Music’ Sid Worth. Sid’s old band the A Band will

be playing with many guests lined up. Pete says, ‘’It was Sid who actually instigated the Sunday Sessions. I spent many Sunday afternoons with Sid, watching bands in the Circuit Bar and The Fleur de Lys and he al-ways used to say that we should have bands on on Sunday Afternoons at Esquires. It was after Sid died in 2002 and the Fleur and the Circuit bar closed I took on board what he said and started running them monthly. As they became more successful I had enough

bands to run it every week. It’s now one of my favourite gigs at Esquires and definitely the place to be on Sunday afternoons from 4.30pm. We have a very strong line up in May and a special ‘Rolling Stones 50th Birthday party on the 23rd June.”May 5th CUTTING OUT May 12th CHERRY LEE MEWIS AND HER BLUES JEMS May 19th THE A BAND PRESENT: A Drink for Sid May 26th VINTAGE STUFF

A deCAde oF SUndAY SeSSIonS AT ESQUIRES

Beautiful Bamberg

Vases: not just for flowers

A Tedx event, the phenomenally successful event format that shares ideas, is to be staged in Bedford this summer.

TEDx is a one day conference of ‘ideas worth spreading’. The name TEDx, is an acronym of Technology, Entertainment and Design where the ‘x’ stands for an inde-pendently organized event. If you’ve never heard of TED or TEDx you should head over to the website (www.ted.com) where you’ll find thousands of videos of incredibly inspiring talks from Richard Branson and Bill Gates to Philippe Starck and Isabel Allende. It’s truly a global phenomenon garnering praise and admiration for its sim-plicity and effectiveness in communicating ideas, calling people to action and sharing inspiration. It’s mandatory the talks last 18 minutes or less, so you can dip in and out of the videos without getting bored or bogged down – from nuclear physics to community action, saving the planet to the art of street theatre. It’s all there, intelligently told and easily accessible. So the big question is what the heck has Bedford done to get one of these global

events right here on our doorstep? TEDxBedford or-ganisers Kayte Judge and Andrew Nadin explain all. “Basically we had

this standing joke where we dared each other to apply…..in the end, we did! Even then we thought we’d be refused the license, because the application process is quite tricky and the rules are quite stringent, so we never thought we’d get it,” said Kayte. “When we got the news we’d been successful we were amazed and really excited but instantly scared, I mean, we’ve got to put on a show worthy of the TEDx brand….and now it’s down to us.” Said Andrew: “Luckily we’re not on our own, we’ve had some fabulous input and offers of help from the design team at Bonfire CI, from Jon Bestwick at DB Audio and loads of volunteers who responded to our cry for help, so already Bedford locals are easily proving a match to the challenge. We’ve had tonnes of people with sugges-tions and ideas about speakers, venues and performers – it’s been great to receive so much support. At the end of the day, Bed-ford deserves to have events as renowned and prestigious as this – they have them in Cambridge, Milton Keyes and Oxford, so

why not here? TED encourages people to dream big, and we think that’s why people are supporting the event.” The theme of TEDxBedford is ‘Ev-eryday Radicals’, Kayte continues: “The theme allows us to include a wide variety of different speakers, we’ve got ex-punks, gardeners, artists, film makers, internet pio-neers and local heroes. ‘Everyday Radicals’ is the common theme that unites them, and we hope the event will inspire people to make the changes in their communities and organisations.” The venue is the beautiful Recital Hall at Bedford School and the date is the 15th of June, so if you like the sound of this, take a look at www.TEDxBedford for full details of the speakers and how to apply for tickets. Get your application in quick, it’s bound to be a sell-out and numbers are limited. See you there!

THE BEDFORD CLANGEReVenTS

MAY 2013

We are excited to be launching a new treatment in May… Hot Lava Shell massage. During this treatment we

use hot tiger clam shells to massage your muscles easing any tension and stress away. You will be left feeling

totally relaxed, with a sense of balance to the body and mind. Our full body Lava Shell Massage is available at the

introductory price of £42 for the month of May (normal price £50).

13 St. Cuthberts Street, Bedford, MK40 3JB Tel: 01234 210081 www.lordsandladiesbedford.co.uk

@lordsandladies1

Daily Express, The Lava Shell Massage:

“The heat and smoothness of the shells, combined

with the massage strokes, induced a feeling of calm

and relaxation. I didn’t want to leave the room.”

roll up, roll up and tell your story to the rest of the world!#citizenbedford is a celebration of the power of citizen journalism and a platform for anyone in our town to tell the

stories that mean something to them. To find out more, visit www.citizenbedford.com or email thebedfordclanger@gmail.com. We will be holding further training sessions on writing, film-making and photography, so please get in touch if you are interested in getting involved.

As we reported last month, Bedford’s Por-tas Pilot Town Team has devoted £13,000 of its £51,000 budget to a series of training sessions that are open to all town centre businesses. The courses aim to enhance the customer experience in Bedford, be it online or on the High Street and we would urge all relevant

businesses to seize this free development opportunity. Delivered locally, the courses will cover a wide range of topics from finance and business plans to creating a website; tweet-ing to understanding profit and loss; prepar-ing shop window displays to marketing and selling techniques. The courses have been

specifically selected to benefit existing busi-nesses as well as start-ups. Said Greg Warwick of Jeeves barber-shop and vice chair of the Town Team: “This is a great opportunity for us to work together to enhance Bedford. Bedford High Street is like a department store, with each different shop forming a part of the bigger picture. We need to work together as a community to improve the town centre, and the Town Team is working hard to achieve this.”

FREE BUSINESS CoURSES IN may & JUNEBUSIneSS

Bedford tEdx Venue: The recital hall

The Elisabeth Curtis Centre, Riding for the Disabled in Bromham, has been providing mental and physical therapy for disabled people of all ages for over 30 years. During that time, getting to know our ponies has been a life changing experience for many people. It is great for confidence building and gives a huge amount of exercise without the riders realising it. They think it is just great fun. We don’t claim to work miracles but we think we have come close a few times. Autistic children often suffer from night terrors. Their families are delighted to discover that their children sleep through the night when they have been riding. Imagine the delight of one mother who had been told her daughter may never speak, when one of our instructors re-marked, “Your daughter’s speech is coming on”. This young lady had never spoken, but soon started talking to her pony and easily

slipped into talking about the pony to other people. The Centre is funded largely by donations, with riders being charged a nominal fee. We receive no government funding. We employ two part-time grooms, but all other work at the Centre is done by volunteers. They groom and tack up the ponies before each riding session and lead them or walk alongside a rider during lessons. Each ses-sion is supervised by an experienced, quali-fied instructor who also organises training for new volunteers. Some of our volunteers also do main-tenance work and gardening. Others work

on the admin side. Our volunteers range in age from 14 to 80. Anyone can apply to be a volunteer, so please go to our website to find out more about us: www.elisabethcurtiscentre.co.uk

RIdINg FoR thE dISaBLEd at thE ELISaBEth CURtIS CENtRESoCIeTY

We are a family run beauty salon located on St Cuthberts Street, a short walk from the town

centre.

We offer a wide range of beauty and wellbeing treatments to male and female clients

such as Dermalogica facials and body treatments, massage, waxing, Brazilians,

threading, gel manicures and pedicures, eyelash extensions and much more.

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

Any town centre business wanting to sign up for courses should contact Sian Hughes at Bedford Borough Council on Sian.Hughes@bedford.gov.uk for detailed information and time table. A refundable de-posit may be charged to secure attendance.

See our interview with Greg on the #citizenbedford website :www.citizenbedford.comDates: May 15th Social MediaJune 21st Shop Window Display

now in their sixth year of brewing, White park Brewery is tucked away on a farm site just outside the village of Cranfield.

The name originates from the owner’s love of rare breed cattle, White Park being an ancient Druid variety. The team are Alan Kelly - the director, his brother, Peter - the head brewer, Nicole - sales, Val - admin and Lloyd - in house designer and deliveries. Driver Lloyd has many tales to tell of his deliveries but is hesitant to share them... Peter the brewer has the fun of creating new recipes, part of the key being blending the right combinations and varieties of hops and malts. It’s surely a kind of alchemy,

especially as the outcome is tasty ale. Naming the ales is also fun, with Alan’s auntie proving to be a bit of a name generator. The beers are shipped out in nine gallon casks (firkins) as well as bottles, into various venues and destinations from the Three Cups pub and Blue Glass wine mer-chants in Bedford, to places further afield, including London and even the Fens. There are now a total of 14 beers in their portfolio, including upcoming brew ‘May-flower Mild’ a mild, traditionally brewed in May, plus the latest beer, ‘That One’ a mischievously named beer, that could cause a little confusion at the bar! It’s a tasty

brown ale, with a jammy aftertaste. White Park’s other seasonal ales include White Gold (a blonde beer), Moonshine (a continental style ale), Nightjar (a porter) and Kelly’s Stout. The beers have been showcased at the Great British Beer Festival in London and will be available at The White Horse (Newnham Avenue) beer festival this month.

www.whiteparkbrewery.co.uk

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

4 Remember to drink responsibly!

MAY 2013

by Bill & Wendy Roffe

Charles wells has teamed up with dogfish head brewery from delaware USA to produce a new craft beer. The beer is brewed in Bedford using ingredients mashed together in Delaware. We were invited to the Devonshire Arms to sample the new DNA New World IPA. The beer has a toasty nutty flavour with a hoppy citrus background. Peter Wells introduced Sam Calagione, founder of Dogfish Head brewery and Jim Robertson, Wells’ own brewmaster. Sam gave us a number of other beers to try, varying in strength from 5% to 18%. We especially liked a 5% beer

flavoured with Syrah grapes; tried a 10% beer but didn’t attempt the 18%, although some people did (Did they make it home? – Ed). Two days later we were back at the De-vonshire for the presentation of North Beds. CAMRA Pub of the Year award. Two other awards were made by North Beds. CAMRA to local pubs. The Bedford Arms in Soul-drop was named Country Pub of the year and the Burnaby Arms in Stanley Street the Most Improved Pub of the year.

dogFISh hEad & ChaRLES WELLS maSh Up

The Beer ISSUe

At The Clanger we love pubs, and Bedford’s got some great ones to choose from.

We asked our Facebook friends about their favourites and here’s what they had to say. Why not give them all a try (just maybe not all in one go!)

Jo Midgley: The Wellington for choice of beer, The Devvy for feeling like a proper pub again and for a superb landlord! The Ship for old times sake!!!

Alice Smith: Love the new stamp wallpa-per at The Three Cups - and it has a nice atmosphere, the Devvy cos it’s so friendly, and The Bedford Arms is great!

John Newbury :The Castle, The Flower Pot, The Kings Arms all have great live bands and atmosphere. Village Pubs: The Polhill Arms Renhold,The Three Fishes Turvey, The Greyhound Haynes, The Fox’s Head, The Bull in Harrold.

Ian McEwen: Burnaby Arms a recent improver (related team to the Dev-vy), excellent jazz at the Bedford Arms, Cricketers is friendly, convenient and usually a good choice of real ale.

Ben Woodfine: Difficult one this one but I think I’ll go for The Bear Bedford! Genera-tions of Bedford have grown up drinking in this pub through its various eras and it’s the only proper pub left on the High Street, plus no bouncers! Best jukebox in town, a mini library (book group meets 1st Thurs of

the month), pool teams, table football and pinball plus a nice little garden when the sun’s out and now hot pies too! Love the live music and all the charity events we’ve joined in; winning the River Festival raft race, the Santa Run, Mo-vember, Charity days, cheese and wine and cocktail nights and all the others....plus the longest running landlord in Bedford! See you there tonight for live music, Saturday for the Grand National and the sweepstake and Monday for more live music before the gig at the Corn Exchange! (p.s. The Bedford Arms is pretty good too!!)

David Gallagher :The Devonshire Arms, The Cricketers, Bedford Arms, Wellington, Three Cups - Bedford’s Famous Five (of Pubs!)

David Baxter: Welly for the selection of beer, Cricketers for the rugby and The Devvy because it’s virtually next door to me!

Olivia O’donoghue: The Bear [cos of Juke Box, darkness and memories], Bedford Arms [a nice, tidy pub], Burnaby Arms

[friendly, cosy boozer],The Mill Hotel [ again, juke box and fact that Harry is a legend!]. Does Dannys Bar of a Sunday avo count as a pub?

Matt Brownsett: It’s got to be The Bear, and The Bedford Arms, for all the reasons Ben said...And Danny’s Bar, if that counts... The Shoulder of Mutton in Kempston Rural was the best ever village pub around these parts, and it is still sadly missed by me, and I’m guessing anyone else who ever drank in there. They

don’t make pubs like that no more, and they closed all the ones that were...

Caryl Jones: King’s Arms, Flower Pot and Ship for the people, atmosphere, music and for sitting outside when the sun shines. The Park has a lovely garden / patio area too.

Emily Pool: The Devonshire Arms - every time! Can’t beat convenience and they do a lovely Malbec!

Erica Roffe: The Clanger Crawl. It’s got a good ring to it! David Gallagher, fancy organising it?

Tim Barron: The Kent Arms used to have the best lock-ins when Jon was in charge. Always been an important part of ‘Bedford Life’. Heralds back to Bedford being a place of trade and commerce for local agri-culture. They reckon all the horses knew the way home as the farmers were too p*ssed. Save our drinking culture!

Adam Boreham: The Devonshire Arms and the Embankment as they let us in with the crazy dogs, Harley likes the fire in the Devvy and Noodle likes the food in the Embankment!

Sonja Short :The Bear, it’s moved with the times but still remains as it always has been, a real pub, with a decent jukebox, all welcome and a landlord with an amazing (?) shirt collection. Recently been introduced to the Devonshire Arms, another real pub, with a good atmosphere and a warm fire.

Lisa Bateson :Welly is my local (lots of beer choice, including Belgian plus lovely bar staff). Recently ventured out to the Devvy - beer was great and made to feel very welcome. Will be going back to try their pies!

pUB Chat

“noodle likes the food in the embankment!”

“They reckon all the

horses knew the way

home as the farmers

were too p*ssed. Save

our drinking culture!”

thE WhItE hoRSE 7Th AnnUAl Beer & TAlenT FeSTIVAlFrom wednesday 1st May to Monday 6th May, the white horse on newnham Avenue will host its annual May Beer Festival.Featuring up to 20 ales from seven local breweries (including White Park) there will also be live music, dancing, charity stalls & a bouncy castle each afternoon on the Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the festival, so why not join Nigel & Sue to celebrate?

On Saturday 4th May Spacegoat will be appearing from 9pm as part of the festivi-ties.

What’S BREWINg LoCaLLy… white hart Brewery

The sixth annual Bedford Bamberg Spring Fest begins in Bedford Town Centre on Friday 10th May, and ends on Saturday 11th May, and on both days, it will run from midday – midnight. This year, the range of beers on offer is the biggest ever, so it could well be the most popular Spring Fest yet! This year’s event boasts more than 40 different German beers, wine and schnapps with 12 beers brewed in Bedford’s twin town, Bamberg itself. The smoked beer from Bam-berg, ‘Schlenkerla Rauchbier’ will be available on tap this year. However, if none of that sounds like your thing there’s always the German barbecue and live music from the popular

Don Bosco Brass Band all within the atmo-sphere of a traditional German beirkeller. Councillor Doug McMurdo said: “Spring Fest is one of the most popular events on the Corn Exchange calendar, and always attracts hundreds of people throughout the weekend. Last year well over 4,000 pints were sold. “Spring Fest started back in 2008 at Bed-ford Corn Exchange on behalf of Bedford Borough Council, to highlight Bedford’s twinning with Bamberg – both of which are famous for their beer brewing.”Entry is free. Friday 10th – Saturday 11th May at Bedford Corn Exchange12noon til midnight.

pRoSt! BedFord BAMBerG SPrInG FeST reTUrnS

The team at Wells & young’s brew and bottle more than 1.26 hectolitres of their high-quality ales every year. That’s the equivalent of 222 million pints which are enjoyed by ale lovers all over the world. Flying the flag for Bedford, Wells & Young’s distributes its beers to an impres-sive 33 different countries including Canada, Russia, the USA and countries across Europe and every single drop starts its journey in Queens Park. Established on Horne Lane in 1875, the brewery expanded rapidly over the years and as the Wells family grew, so did the

business. By the 1970s the brewery opera-tions had outgrown the Horne Lane site and a new, larger brewery with state-of-the-art equipment was built in 1976 on the Queens Park site that it still occupies today. The brewery has always been a family business and in keeping with this tradition it is now headed up by Paul Wells, Charles’ great grandson. Alongside brewing, the company has also established an estate of more than 200 Charles Wells pubs in the UK as well as in Paris, Toulouse, Montpellier, Bordeaux and Lyon in France. As well as having an award-winning portfolio of beers - includ-ing national favourites Bombardier, Young’s Bitter, Courage Directors and Bedford’s much-loved Eagle - Charles Wells was named Pub Company of the Year. Only the very best ingredients go into

BehInd The SCeneS AT The BrewerYBEdFoRd’S FINESt ExpoRt

Wells & Young’s beers. They use farm as-sured barley, hand-selected hops and their very own accredited natural mineral water that is sourced from a well in Bedford sunk by Charles Wells himself more than 200 years ago. Wells & Young’s master brew-ers pride themselves on coming up with new and innovative tastes for their great range of seasonal and flavoured ales such as Banana Bread Beer and Waggle Dance, both of which are hugely popular across the

Atlantic. As the empire grows, Wells & Young’s prides itself on being at the heart of the local community and supporting all the things that make Bedfordshire great. It is the proud sponsor of Bedford Blues Rugby Club, the River Festival, Bedfringe and The Higgins and regularly fundraises for local charities. I think we can all agree that Charles Wells Ltd is a local business that we can all be proud of. Cheers!

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Inside wells & Young’s Brewery

don Brosco Brass Band

Festival favourites the Levellers play Bedford Corn exchange on June 13th slap-bang in the middle of their current tour/summer holiday.

Having been on the road since early May by this point, the Bedford gig will double as a warm up for an appearance at the Isle of Wight the following night; the band should be on top form when they swing into town. Now in their 25th year, the band began in Brighton and soon established themselves as a must-see on the burgeoning festival cir-cuit . In fact, the popularity of festivals and their place as a summer tradition for many thousands of people is in no small part due to the Levellers unending appetite for play-ing live. They are a fixture on the bill almost everywhere, and it would be a safe bet to say they have played all the major European festivals several times over. If they are promoting anything it’s the ‘Recruiting Sergeant EP’ which has been

released in aid of the excellent WarChild charity. A cause to which the band have been committed since it started in 1995. The inaugural WarChild album features their song ‘Searchlights’ and they see the charity as ‘a way to support the innocent victims’ of conflict. Originally a track on their ‘Static on the Airwaves’ album from last year, the single has also been a good excuse to collaborate with Sussex folk legends ‘The Copper Fam-ily’, who have harmonised for generations, and also two relative newcomers: banjo player Dan Walsh and accordion- squeezer Shona Kipling. The Levellers describe them both as ‘young and fabulous’, and clips on youtube certainly bear this out The tour finishes in late August at the

Levellers very own ‘Beautiful Days’ festival. Set in the grounds of Escott Park in Devon, the festival regularly receives slaps on the back and hearty handshakes for exem-plary festival etiquette and organisation. Which is a polite way of saying they have good toilets. The fun unfolds over the classic 3-day festival weekend and this year includes Primal Scream, Arrested Develop-ment and Roy Harper amongst many others. The Levellers believe

their own festival experience and respect for their fans sets this one apart from the flock, and they know how to throw a good party. So, if you’re looking for festival vibes, but can’t commit to 3-days of confusion and wellies, or your limbering up for exactly that, this is the gig for you.

one of the great British punk pop bands play their debut Bedford show at the Corn exchange this month.

Buzzcocks formed in Bolton in 1976, led by singer-songwriter-guitarist Pete Shelly and singer-songwriter-guitarist Steve Diggle. The band’s raw sound energized the nation’s stagnated youth in 1976 and they have left us with some classic three minute punk pop tunes that remain timeless to this day. The band made unique history by releas-ing their debut Spiral Scratch EP on their own label, something that was unknown at the time, and started a D.I.Y ethic amongst Indie bands that is still evident with new artists of today. Buzzcocks have released some unforget-table songs such as Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve), Orgasm Addict, What Do I Get, Everybody’s Happy

Nowadays, Boredom and Promises and live on stage they remain as vibrant and hungry as ever before with their legendary high octane perfor-mances. Support for the night comes from one of Bedford’s hottest young new bands handpicked by the band and ourselves to support - THE SCRUFF. Doors open at 7.30pm, the first band takes to the stage at 8pm.

Tickets are on sale in advance priced £18 and can be bought in person from The Corn Exchange Box Office (now based in the Tourist Information Centre) and from Luscious Juice Bar in Lime Street (no booking fee).

Online ticket options include www.bedford-cornexchange.co.uk or www.wegottickets.com or here: http://www.seetickets.com/Event/BUZZCOCKS/Bedford-Corn-Exchange/688021

FREE AFTERSHOW PARTY WITH YOUR TICKET AT THE PAD NIGHTCLUB, 2 LURKE ST, BEDFORD

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

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In association with

Bedford Borough Council’s Premier entertainment Venue

The L I S t I N gGetting out and About in Bedford This may

The Pad Presents.. BUZZCoCKS + thE SCRUFF lIVe AT BedFord Corn exChAnGe - FrIdAY 17Th MAY 2013

MUSIC

Another superb month of music in Bedford.

MAY 2013

Bolton’s Finest: Buzzcocks:

A bit of a coup for The Pad Presents team this month as hotly tipped indie hip hop band RdgLdgRN visit them at esquires for the US band’s only non-city date on their first UK tour. Not only did the sticksmith legend Dave Grohl play drums on the entire album, recorded at the world famous Sound City Studios, but NERD’s Pharrell Williams liked them so much he co-wrote part of the album too. Famous admirers apart, within 3 weeks of uploading debut single ‘I Love Lamp’ on YouTube, it had hit over 400,000 hits and had been featured as the most requested track on MTV - the first time ever for a new artist. Since then Radio 1 and the British press have been all over the band, with second single Million Fans being A-listed and the band performing on Jimmy Kimmel Live back in the US.

Comprising of three members who iden-tify as Red, Gold, and Green, RDGLDGRN began making music in their basement stu-dio, drawing from a vast and almost ironi-cally diverse pool of influences like Chuck Brown, Vampire Weekend, Outkast, The Neptunes and Bad Brains. In what many might consider a wildly ambitious, even impossible, trick to pull off, RDGLDGRN have effortlessly managed to combine genres of music to create something new, something all their own, and something that has the music industry buzzing with excitement. Playing only a select handful of show-case UK dates before setting off on the acclaimed Vans Warped Tour in June 2013, this is a chance to see the band before they hit much, much bigger stages.

Tickets are £7.50 and on sale now:Dannys Bar, Esquires, BedfordLuscious Juice Bar, 4 Lime St, Bedfordhttp://www.seetickets.com/Event/RDG-LDGRN/Bedford-Esquires/699746

Doors open 7.30pmTHIS IS A 14+ SHOW, UNDER 16s to be accompanied by an over 18

The Pad Presents.. RdgLdgRN / Karl phillips & the midnight Ramblers / Zedo / gingerbread men ThUrSdAY 16Th MAY 2013 BedFord eSqUIreS

Irritable vowels?: RDGLDGRN

CICERo BUCK AT The BUrnABYHowever and whenever you hear them - you know you’re listening to songwriting

talent and two performers who enjoy what they do. Kris Wilkinson Hughes is an American singer/songwriter who learned her writing craft in the deep south and co-writing with

great writers in Nashville. It didn’t hurt growing up listening to bands like Crowded House, Cheap Trick, the Beatles and others. Teamed with Joe Hughes on bass (who is best known for co-writing the massive Annie Lennox hit ‘No More I Love You’s), their latest EP, A Taste of Wonderful (Which Wolf Wins Records), has been steadily pick-ing up great reviews and airplay and two tracks are earmarked for a British film being released later this year. Catch Cicero Buck at the Burnaby Arms, 66 Stanley St, 8pm, for their Nashville Nights Songwriters night on May 7, featuring Penny and Joe Harvey and the astounding vocal talent of emerging British artist, Katie Coleman. Somewhere between Amy Winehouse, Adele, Etta James and Jessie J. Not to be missed! www.supertinyrecords.com www.cicerobuck.com

Lloyd Lugsden put some Qs to the band: You’re from DC, any local bands an influence? Mambo Sauce, Soja, Backyard Band What percent hip hop, what percent rock? %50, %50 What tunes did you grow up to? MC Hammer - Can’t Touch This, Michael Jackson – Thriller, The Beatles - Hey Jude, Chicago Bulls Entrance Music Fans of any UK music? Alot...The Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Gorillaz, Dizee Rascal, KANO, The Streets , Arctic Monkeys , Radiohead, Led Zepplin, The Sex Pistols, so many more... The name. An abbreviation but where did the colour thing come from? We as a group of friends all go by COLORs this is before the band and it’s how we came up with the band name basically it’s a way to simplify our individuality and identities. Self Actualized Personas. Favourite dish to cook? Steak rice, chicken rice, sautéed spinach, hamburgers & nacho chips. Fave other current artists? Tame Impala, Kendrick Lamar, The Drums, Purity Ring, and Juicy J I went to DC once and got mistaken for an Aussie. I’m English. What’s your favourite thing in the Smithsonian? LOL! The AWEIWEI exhibit and movie was amazing but I think it’s gone now. Dave Grohl drummed on the album, was he as ridiculously nice as he seems? Yes. Got the Pharrel touch too, love him more since watching Despicable Me film; was he a ridiculously nice chap too? Humble. Hardworking. Inspirational. What do you like about the uk? FOOTBALL FOOTBALL and hopefully the women we never been tho lol What don’t you like about the UK? The fact that we never been. What took us so long to be invited! What can Bedford expect from your show? Energy and most of all pure fun we love what we do.

LEVELLERS PlAYInG FIeldSThe levellers

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

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The L I S t I N g

Bedford Corn exchange Box office: 01234 269519 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk CoMedY CoMInG Soon: BEdFRINgE 7... LIVE 19Th JUlY 2013

MAY 2013

Wednesday 1st May •••••••••••••••••••••••The White Horse 7th Annual Beer & Talent FestivalUp to 20 Ales from 7 local breweries available plus live music, dance, charity stalls & bouncy castle. Open each afternoon until Mon 6th May. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•BOMBSYTEtheatre presents RecalculatingUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book.•Beer Tasting ClubTasting a range of ales and discussing their merits. Please register your interest with Bev.From 8pm, The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Bedford Rock ChoirThe UK’s largest, amateur contemporary choir. No scary auditions and no need to read music or have any experi-ence. Try a session for free. Tickets £100 per term, 8pm start at The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Chinese State CircusElaborate, explosive and highly choreographed plus the more delicate and beautiful side of Chinese tradition with plate spinning, parasol juggling and the legendary ‘Bicycle Act’. Starts at 7.30pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Prebend Day Centre Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•DinnerSwan Theatre Company present this comedy thriller from Moira Buffini. Hostess Paige is celebrating the publication of her husband’s best seller. Then the arrival of Mike, ma-rooned in the foggy lane after crashing his van, provides an unexpected addition to the evening’s entertainment. From 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk•The Biggest Jam Night in TownHuge open mic night at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bed-ford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Reiki Drum Meditation SessionRelax to the constant beat of the drum in this session with Elizabeth Drake at The Friends’ Meeting House, Lans-downe Road, Bedford. 6.45pm-8.30pm. £7. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.ukThursday 2nd May•••••••••••••••••••••••••••Creative Bedfordshire Network MeetingMeet other creative professionals from the area. Each meeting has a spotlight on a different area of the creative industries. Present your own activities to the group too. 7-9pm, free entry, The Ent Shed, Castle Road, Bedford. www.bedfordcreativearts.org.uk/index.php/events info@bedfordcreativearts.org.uk•Pointless Dramas presents Girls with ClassUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book.•DinnerSee 1st May for details. From 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Americana @ AndaluzDanni Nicholls presents the best from local, national and international artists. Doors open at 6pm for drinks and tapas. Music starts at 8pm at Andaluz Café on Castle Road. Tel 07913 342654•Speedshot + Hazard + Liam BurkeLive music in Holy Moly’s, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Traditional Music SessionJoin in this monthly folk jam, 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Kelly’s Poker NightTexas Hold’em poker game from 7.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Jam Night with Mat RobertsLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732Friday 3rd May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Vintage Movie Night

Showing 80s classic, Top Gun. Comfy sofas set up cinema style, coffee, cakes plus sweet and salty popcorn. Free entry. 7.30pm for 8.00pm start. Ground Floor Coffee Shop, Kings House, 245 Ampthill Road, Bedford. Tel: 07561 340593 Email: events@groundfloorcoffee.co.uk www.groundfloorcoffee.co.uk•Bedford Art Society MeetingAdrian Barlow, historian and writer, gives a talk for the Bedford Art Society comparing the architecture of Oxford and Cambridge. 7.30pm start, free for members, £5 for visitors at Putnoe Heights Church. Tel: 01234 307210 www.bedsartsociety.co.uk•Devil’s MojoLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Fall Against Fate + Ghost of GabrielleLive music on the main stage at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Awaken Theatre presents A Quiet Life by Stephen BeanUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. •Karaoke with Diamond Fire8pm, The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Exec Club Karaoke9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500Saturday 4th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Bedford Crafts, Produce & CuppaBrowse Bedfordian handmade items and locally produced foods. Enjoy a cuppa (your first is free!) and a piece of cake at Church Lane Community Centre (opposite Aldi) every first Saturday of the month, 9am-2pm. contact@loveofcupcakes.co.uk www.bedford.gov.uk/community_and_living/community_centres•West End Wendies Theatre WorkshopsTake part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www.westendwendies.com•Twisted Reflections presents Baba YagaUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book.•X Fest at Santa PodAn extreme sports festival for skateboarders, BMX bikers and scooter fans. There be displays, live music, funfair, jet cars and a live action arena including monster trucks and freestyle motocross. Opens 8am, tickets £6.60-£13. Santa Pod Raceway, Airfield Road, Wellingborough. Tel: 01234 782828 www.xfest.co.uk www.santapod.com•Magic Music Group All DayerLive music all day at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Shamanic Yoga & Reiki Drum Workshop12.15-3.45pm at The Friends’ Meeting House, Landsd-owne Road. £30. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk•Riff3 Piece Cover Band playing from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•VE Day Anniversary CelebrationAn evening of live 1940s music, as well as a DJ. There will be dance lessons, a buffet, bar and charity raffle. Tick-ets £10, all proceeds to The Veterans Charity. 1940s dress is keenly encouraged but not mandatory. From 7pm. The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk www.veteranscharity.org.uk•SpacegoatLive music from 9pm at The White Horse Beer Festival, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Fat Lads’ DiscoHosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500•Loaded Clubnight @ The PadIndie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3-am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclubSunday 5th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Houghton Conquest Art Exhibition & Victorian TearoomAn exhibition and sale of over 80 pictures and photo-graphs, set up in the style of a Victorian tearoom. Refresh-ments and homemade cakes will be available. Special half-price membership for £10. 10am-4pm, Houghton Conquest Village Hall. Tel Mike Padian: 01234 740365•Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•X Fest at Santa PodSee 4th May. www.xfest.co.uk www.santapod.com•Cutting OutLive music from 4pm in the bar at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•MojoLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•An Evening of Living PoetryJoin Swan Theatre Company at the Eagle Gallery in for a fabulous evening of Living Poetry, featuring fantastic poems by Carol Anne Duffy, Andrew Motion, and many others. 7.30pm, Castle Road, Bedford. www.theplacebed-ford.org.uk•Jon’s Music QuizUp to £300 prize money! The King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Power Animal Meditation WorkshopConnect with your animal guides through meditation with Elizabeth Drake.11-2.00pm, Bedford. £30. Tel: 07816

236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.ukMonday 6th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Pub Bike TourExploring several pubs by bicycle in the Bedford area. 12 noon, £5 per person in advance, incl BBQ, starting and ending at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•X Fest at Santa PodSee 4th May. www.xfest.co.uk www.santapod.com•Wilden May Day FayreLots of entertainment, refreshments, homemade items, plants and toys. The Bedford Pipe Band will march down Wilden High Street at 1pm, followed by Maypole dancing and the crowning of the May Queen and King. Free park-ing. The Victoria Arms Pub is hosting a Beer and Cider Festival and tractor display during the day and an evening buffet. Wilden Village Hall, High Street, Wilden, Bedford.•Mercy in Action Summer FêteLovely things to buy and eat! There will be stalls selling homemade vintage crafts, tea and cake provided by The Cakestand and Crumb in Ampthill, as well as activities for children such as face painting and lucky dips. All profits will go to street children’s projects in the Philippines. 10.30am-4pm, Ampthill Baptist Church. f.davidge@mercyinaction.org.uk www.mercyinaction.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising/•International Workers’ Day Celebration – May Day 2013Bedford Trades Council host this event with The Banner Theatre Company performing their cabaret, Fighting The Cuts. There will be speakers plus political, trade union, community and stalls & exhibitions. Free entry, 1pm in the Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Tony’s General Knowledge QuizThe King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Big Band Xtra Jam NiteHosted by local singer/songwriter Mat Roberts, 7.30pm til late. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukTuesday 7th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise £3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Bedford Floral Art Society MeetingFeaturing Around the World - a demonstration by Lesley Sturdy. 7pm for 7.30pm start. Free for members, visitors £5. The Addison Centre, Kempston. www.bedfordfloral-artsociety.co.uk•Beechwood Park Prep School Composition CompetitionAdjudicated by Julie Edwards, Director of Music, Beech-wood Park Prep School. 4.30pm, free admission.: Erskine May Hall, Bedford School. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk•Reiki ShareGive and receive healing with Elizabeth Drake, 7.45-10-pm at The Friends’ Meeting House, Landsdowne Road, Bedford. £5. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk•Tim Barron’s Ukulele LessonsIf you’d like to learn a musical instrument, this is the easi-est and most fun to pick up. Join Tim from the Ouse Valley Singles Club band at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Assassins Fysh 2 Fry present a story about 9 individuals who have attempted to assassinate the President of the United States. The assassins return in 1963 to convince Lee Harvey Oswald to shoot President Kennedy. 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Philharmonia OrchestraA London Symphony imagines the chimes of Westminster and the bustle of the East End, as well as exploring the grimmer side of early twentieth-century city life. Tickets £12-£33, 7.30pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Karaoke & CocktailsEsquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Old Geezer BandEvery Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington Arms, Wel-lington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukWednesday 8th May •••••••••••••••••••••Tea DanceA pleasant afternoon in elegant surroundings. Ballroom, Latin American, Sequence Dances, Party Dances & Old Time. Price includes refreshments. Tickets £3.50 (advance), £4.00 (on the day), starts 2.00pm. Main Audi-torium & Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Stitch ‘n BitchBring any crafty project to The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd, 7.30pm. beverlyjoburridge@gmail.com Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Bedford Rock ChoirSee 1st May for details. The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Red Cross Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Assassins

See 7th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk•The Biggest Jam Night in TownHuge open mic night at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bed-ford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Psychic & Spiritual Development GroupLearn and explore psychic and spiritual subjects with Elizabeth Drake. 7-9.30pm at Brickhill Community Cen-tre. £10. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.ukThursday 9th May •••••••••••••••••••••••••••Music at LunchtimeA chance to enjoy a diverse selection of works in beauti-ful surroundings in the Recital Hall of Bedford’s Music School. 1pm start, free admission. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedford-school.org.uk/music-lunchtime-summer-2013•Piano RecitalChristina McMaster, post-graduate student at the Royal Academy of Music, will be giving a piano recital in the Music School Recital Hall. 7.30pm, free admission. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 07773 173344 heatherturnham@yahoo.co.uk www.bedford-school.org.uk/christina-mcmaster-2013•The Bedford Arms Book ClubThe Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Road. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•The Darling MundaringLive music in Holy Moly’s, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Charity Bingo NightArranged with Scots’ Society of St Andrew, Bedford. Tick-ets for supper (with chips) and 6 games £8 at The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Julian Clary - Position Vacant: Apply WithinJulian Clary is looking for love and he’s not leaving town empty handed. Master of camp and Celebrity Big Brother Winner, he is scouring the land in search of love. Tickets £20, 8pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Assassins See 7th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Jam Night with Mat RobertsLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732Friday 10th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Bedford : Bamberg Spring Fest 2013Over 40 different German beers, wines, schnapps and authentic German BBQ. Entertainment provided by Don Bosco from Bamberg. 12 noon to midnight, Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. For more information Tel: 01234 718044 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk•Beechwood Park Prep School ConcertAn informal concert performed by Beechwood Park Prep School students. 4.30pm, free admission, Erskine May Hall, Bedford School. Tel: 01234 362200www.bedfordschool.org.uk•King Pleasure & the Biscuit BoysDazzling musicianship, riveting stage performances, this has to be the World’s greatest swing band. Tickets £15, 8pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Tina Turner Tribute Night£39.50 including 3 course meal and half bottle of wine. Other packages include overnight stay and fireworks. Wyboston Lakes, Great North Road, Wyboston, Beds. Tel: 0333 7007 667 (option 4) quoting POScelebrations@wybostonlakes.co.uk www.wybostonlakes.co.uk/social-events•Hurricane FlyLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•PVELive music in the bar, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.comEsquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Assassins See 7th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Handmade Dances - an evening of new dance worksUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book.•Vinyl Revival NightDust off those LPs & singles and come to play them at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd from 8pm.Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Exec Club Karaoke9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500Saturday 11th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••West End Wendies Theatre WorkshopsTake part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www.westendwendies.com•Handmade Dances - an evening of new dance worksSee 10th May. Tel:08003285334 to book.•Bedford : Bamberg Spring Fest 2013See Fri 10th. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk•Nursery Plant SaleKeen prices and good advice at Pavenham Village Hall. There will also be a plant crèche, refreshments, a tombola and a children’s playground in aid of the Friends of St Peter’s. 10.30am-2.30pm, free parking, £1.20 entry. debby_horsman@hotmail.com•Bedford Amateur RegattaMaintaining its position as the largest single-day river regatta in the country, Bedford Embankment brings com-petitive rowing to the River Great Ouse in Bedford. Races every two minutes for fours and eights across all categories from J14 upwards including novice and elite.•Panacea Museum & Gardens Open DayFind out about the history of this unique religious society that existed until recently in Bedford. View The Members’ Chapel and clock tower, the Founder’s House, an exhibi-tion at Castleside and the Panacea gardens. Free admis-sion, 10.30am-4.30pm. The Panacea Museum, 9 Newnham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 353178 museum@panacea-society.org•GA GA - A Tribute to QueenPerformed by a multi-award winning band from numer-ous Queen Conventions and TV appearances. A host of massive Queen songs played like they were meant to be.

Tickets £16, 8pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Mojo with Dave KingLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Obsessive Compulsive + Filthy VisualsLive music on the main stage at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Assassins See 7th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk•Fat Lads’ DiscoHosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500•Loaded Clubnight @ The PadIndie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3-am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclubSunday 12th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••School ConfirmationA wonderful series of free choral services in the School Chapel every Sunday, either morning or evening, to which members of the public are most welcome. More dates and times are on the website. Bedford School Chapel. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford.Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk/choral-summer-2013•Brass Ensemble Charity Concert2pm start, free admission. Bromham House, Bedford School. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk/art-music-drama•Red Cross Open GardenA four-acre garden, a mixture of formal gardens with park-land, including mature trees and flowering shrubs, with one of the highest view points in the county, overlooking Ampthill. Teas, homemade cakes and plants available. 1.30-5pm, £4 entry, Great Farm House, Maulden, situated off the Silsoe Road, between the A507 and Clophill Road. Tel: 01582 589083 samexheta@redcross.org.uk www.redcross.org.uk•Elstow Village May FestivalSee the crowning of the May Queen and enjoy cakes, raffle and charity stalls at Elstow Village Green. 12 noon-3pm, free admission.•Vintage Tea Party for St John’s HospiceEnjoy a traditional afternoon tea of sandwiches, tea and cakes in the hall at St. John’s Hospice. Tickets £7.50. St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger. Tel: 01767 642421•Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Cherry Lee MewisLive music from 4pm in the bar at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Thr3eLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Jon’s Music QuizUp to £300 prize money! The King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukMonday 13th May••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Tony’s General Knowledge QuizThe King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Open Mic NightHosted by local singer/songwriter Matt Roberts, 8.30pm til close. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Monday Morning Guided Meditation SessionGo on a healing guided journey to peacefulness with Elizabeth Drake. 10.30-1130am, Bedford, £5. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.ukTuesday 14th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise £3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•The Merchant of Venice Bedford Dramatic Club set the play in 1930s Italy. A comedy and love story with a dark side of anti-Semitism. 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk. Running until the 18th.•Karaoke & CocktailsEsquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Old Geezer BandEvery Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington Arms, Wel-lington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukWednesday 15th May••••••••••••••••••••••Beer Tasting ClubTasting a range of bottled ales and discussing their merits. Please register your interest with Bev.From 8pm, The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk •Midnight WalkA women-only 10 mile sponsored walk around Bedford in aid of Sue Ryder Care, starting and finishing at Bedford International Athletics Stadium. £15 registration fee. www.suerydercare.org/midnightwalks•Bedford Rock ChoirThe UK’s largest, amateur contemporary choir. No scary auditions and no need to read music or have any experi-ence. Try a session for free. Tickets £100 per term, 8pm start at The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

7Bedford Corn exchange Box office: 01234 269519 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk CoMedY CoMInG Soon: BEdFRINgE 7... LIVE 19Th JUlY 2013

MAY 2013

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

2013

Beer & Cider Festival 2013spring Bank Holiday Weekend.

Starts Friday 24th May 2013 (17.00)

Business Lunch - 2 courses £9.95 Including hot/cold

drink. Call to pre-order so your food is ready on

arrival! See our website for the menu.

Now also open Sundays12noon - 10pm.

Sunday Specials Board available.

27 St Peters Street, Bedford MK40 2PN01234 340724 / 07809 378733

amici.bedford@gmail.com www.amici-restaurant.co.uk

•Bromham Green WI Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•The Merchant of Venice See 14th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk.•The Biggest Jam Night in TownHuge open mic night at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bed-ford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Reiki Drum Meditation SessionRelax to the constant beat of the drum in this session with Elizabeth Drake at The Friends’ Meeting House, Lans-downe Road, Bedford. 6.45pm-8.30pm. £7. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.ukThursday 16th May •••••••••••••••••••••••••Ouse Muse - Poetry & Spoken Word Open MicHaiku to hip-hop or Herrick to Hegley, we welcome all performers and voices. From 8pm in the cellar bar at Har-purs, 46-48 Tavistock St, Bedford. £2 for readers, £3 for just listening. Sign up on the door or contact ian.mcewen@ntlworld.com•Music at LunchtimeA chance to enjoy a diverse selection of works in beauti-ful surroundings in the Recital Hall of Bedford’s Music School. 1pm start, free admission. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedford-school.org.uk/music-lunchtime-summer-2013•RDGLDGRNLive music on the main stage at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Juicebox showcaseFour new bands in the bar at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Skeptics in the Pub - Exploring the solar system: Humans beyond EarthOU research student Adam Stevens looks at the potential for humanity to spread beyond our own planet, examining the slightly more sci-fi aspects of human space flight and how realistic they might be. Free admission, from 7pm at The White Horse, Newnham Ave, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•The Merchant of Venice See 14th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk.•Making Performance - seven short shows, a different programme every nightUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. •Jam Night with Mat RobertsLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732Friday 17th May •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••The Bedford Auction Centre Valuation DayThe centre’s team of valuers can advise on all antique or collectable items. Entries are invited for the specialist sales of antiques, jewellery, 20th century design, rock & pop and memories of childhood. 10am-4pm at the Bedford Auction Centre. Tel: 01234 266366 www.peacockauction.co.uk•Making Performance - seven short shows, a different programme every nightUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. •GypsyAn amateur musical production based on the book by Arthur Laurents in aid of The Bedford Hospital Charity A & E for Children. 7.30pm start, tickets £12.50 (incl a free glass of wine). Sharnbrook Mill Theatre. Tel: 01234 356051 brijin.hanling@yahoo.co.uk•Buzzcocks & GuestsThis punk rock band, led by Pete Shelly and Steve Diggle energized the nation’s stagnated youth in 1976 and they have left us with some punk pop tunes. Doors 7.30pm, tickets £18, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•PuretoneLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Los The PlotLive music in the bar at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bed-ford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Merchant of Venice See 14th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk.•Karaoke with Diamond Fire8pm, The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Exec Club Karaoke9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500Saturday 18th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••West End Wendies Theatre WorkshopsTake part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www.westendwendies.com•Making Performance - seven short shows, a different programme every nightUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. •Life and Times in concert: Treasures of the HeartlandsGraeme and Barry’s music has taken them to most of the major folk clubs and festivals and their music has been featured national radio. Tickets £10. St Mary Magdalene Church, Dunton, Biggleswade. Tel Simon Bailes: 01767 310424 duntonfolk@hotmail.co.uk www.duntonfolk.co.uk•Bedford Auction Centre 20th Century Design Furni-ture and Collectors’ Items AuctionAn auction for specialist buyers and private individuals looking for something out of the ordinary to furnish their homes. 10.30am, free admission. Bedford Auction Centre. Tel: 01234 266366 www.peacockauction.co.uk•Italian Society MeetingAntonio Meucci will be at The Chapter House, St Peter de Merton Church, De Parys Avenue, 8pm.•SuperyobUpbeat Promotions present this band on the main stage at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra presents The Heart of EnglandGeorge Butterworth’s rhapsody A Shropshire Lad plus El-gar’s magical Sea Pictures with Jeanette Ager will join the BSO to sing the work. Tickets £3-£13, 7.30pm in the Main

Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•The TrenchFrom the team behind The Terrible Infants and Ernest and the Pale Moon, comes a new play inspired by the true story of a miner who became entombed in a tunnel during the first World war. Tickets £8-£10.00, 7.30pm, Bedford Theatre, Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Box Office: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk•Tie One OnLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Spirit Guide WorkshopConnect and work with your spirit guides with Elizabeth Drake, 10am-4.30pm, Bedford. £45. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk•All Star ZeroLive music from 9pm at The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebed-ford.co.uk•Fat Lads’ DiscoHosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500•Loaded Clubnight @ The PadIndie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3-am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclubSunday 19th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Holy CommunionA wonderful series of free choral services in the School Chapel every Sunday, either morning or evening, to which members of the public are most welcome. More dates and times are on the website. Bedford School Chapel. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford.Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk/choral-summer-2013•Red Cross Open GardenThis five-acre garden has been beautifully restored and modernised . Explore the sunken and parterre gardens and wild walk areas. Teas, home-made cakes and plants are available. All proceeds to local and national Red Cross services. Open 1.30-5pm, £4 entry at Tofte Manor, near Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire. Tel: 01582 589083 samex-heta@redcross.org.uk•The A BandLive music from 4pm in the bar at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Barely AliveLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Fodens Brass Band in ConcertA rare chance to hear one of the best brass bands in the world. Tickets £12, 7pm, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.ukUp to £300 prize money! The King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukMonday 20th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Tony’s General Knowledge QuizThe King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Open Mic NightHosted by local singer/songwriter Matt Roberts, 8.30pm til close. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.white-horsebedford.co.ukTuesday 21st May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise £3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Bedford College Open Day5-8pm. For more information and to pre-register visit: www.bedford.ac.uk/eventsor call 01234 291000•New Write Nights 2 After the huge success of the first event, Novus have returned bringing 5 nights of theatre and poetry from Bed-ford and beyond. 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk. Running until the 25th.•Karaoke & CocktailsEsquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Old Geezer BandEvery Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington Arms, Wel-lington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukWednesday 22nd May ••••••••••••••••••••••Psychic & Spiritual Development GroupLearn and explore psychic and spiritual subjects with Elizabeth Drake. 7-9.30pm at Brickhill Community Cen-tre. £10. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk•Staging New Writing - three one-act plays by contem-porary playwrightsUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bed-ford. 7pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book.•Talk by Sir Samuel Whitbread KCVOOrganised by the Friends of St Andrew’s, this talk is entitled Plain Mr Whitbread where Sir Samuel will speak about his experiences. Starts 8pm, tickets £3-£4. St Andrew’s Church, Kimbolton Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 216881 www.standrewsbedford.org•Stitch ‘n BitchBring any crafty project to The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd, 7.30pm. beverlyjoburridge@gmail.com Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

•Bedford Rock ChoirSee May 1st. The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Carers in Bedfordshire Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•The Biggest Jam Night in TownHuge open mic night at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bed-ford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.comThursday 23rd May •••••••••••••••••••••••••Shuttleworth College Open Day5-8pm. For more information and to pre-register visit www.shuttleworth.ac.uk/eventsor call 01767 626222•Music at Lunchtime at Bedford Music SchoolSee 9th May.•BROOKS Annual Hair & Beauty Show 2013Under this year’s theme, World Weather, amazing hair-styles, make-up and costumes by students from Bedford College. Tickets £8, doors 6.30pm, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Gary Delaney - PuristGary thinks that most shows don’t contain enough jokes, and is trying single handedly to redress the balance. Expect jokes, don’t expect narrative, themes or a voyage of self-discovery. Tickets £14, 8pm, Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Road Victims’ Trust Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Jam Night with Mat RobertsLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732Friday 24th May •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••FIA European Drag Racing ChampionshipsSanta Pod’s flagship championship event including top fuel dragsters, drag bikes, jet cars, stunts, monster trucks, traders and sideshows. Opens 8am, tickets from £12. Run-ning until 27th May. Santa Pod Raceway, Airfield Road, Podington, Wellingborough. Tel: 01234 782828 www.santapod.com•The Drifters - 60th Anniversary Diamond Dynasty TourThe Drifters celebrate this incredible achievement by producing their most spectacular show to date before their worldwide tour . Tickets £25, 7.30pm, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Hair of the DogLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Exec Club Karaoke9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500Saturday 25th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••West End Wendies Theatre WorkshopsTake part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www.westendwendies.com•Faith Woodlands Communities Farewell EventHear the many testimonies regarding the project. With a yoga session, woodcarving exhibition and a performance from a local choir. Light refreshments available at the end..All welcome, free entry, 2-3.30pm. Bedford Priory Country Park. fwc.bedford@gmail.com www.faithwoodlands.org.uk•St. Owens Church Annual FayreGrand draw, stalls and side shows plus bouncy obstacle course. Local school children will be maypole dancing. Doors 2pm, free entry. Bromham Village Hall, Village Road•7 Twenty 7Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Reiki Drum Meditation SessionRelax to the constant beat of the drum in this session with Elizabeth Drake at Cafe Virtuoso, Bedford. 6.45pm-8.30pm. £5. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk•Fat Lads’ DiscoHosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500•Loaded Clubnight @ The PadIndie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3-am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclub•Karakoke with Crazy Horse8pm, The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukSunday 26th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Peripheral Vision - new dance work by students with professional dance artist Diccon HoggerUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book.•Book GroupAt The Wellington Arms from 5pm, Wellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•The Ouse Valley Singles ClubLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Jon’s Music QuizUp to £300 prize money! The King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukMonday 27th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••Kathy Brown’s Garden Open DayWisteria, early roses and clematis with vanity fair in the garden plus well dressing beside the church. Home made teas, plants, signed books and recipe cards available. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic. 1-5pm. £4.50 entry. The Manor House, Church Road, Stevington. Tel. 01234 822064 www.kathybrownsgarden.homestead.com info@kathybrownsgarden.com

•Behind The Scenes At The Sale RoomsA talk in the Robert Room by some of the auctioners where antiques and jewellery will be on display. Tickets £8 includinga cheese and wine buffet. All proceeds to Sue Ryder Care, St John’s Hospice. 7.30pm start. Bedford Auc-tion Centre. Tel: 01234 266366 www.peacockauction.co.uk•The All Saints Church Cafe in the TowerSample a range of cakes and cookies to go with your cuppa. The Church Tower will also be open and the view from the top is well worth the climb. Wander around the award-winning Churchyard. 2.30-5.30pm. Tower trips £1-£2. All Saints Church, Odell, North Beds. jane@eshelby.co.uk www.odellbeds.net•Vanity-Fair in the Manor House GardenMusic and stalls, vanity, gluttony, gambling, games and madness, all based on the story of The Pilgrim’s Progress. 1-5pm, entry £4.50. Dancing from 5pm and Vanity-Fair play continues in the church at 6pm. £8 entry. Kathy Brown’s Garden, The Manor House, Church Road, Stev-ington. Tel: 01234 822064 info@kathybrownsgarden.com www.kathybrownsgarden.com•Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Tony’s General Knowledge QuizThe King’s Arms, St Mary’s Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk•Monday Morning Guided Meditation SessionGo on a healing guided journey to peacefulness with Elizabeth Drake. 10.30-1130am, Bedford, £5. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk•Big Band Xtra Jam NiteHosted by local singer/songwriter Mat Roberts, 7.30pm til late. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham

Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.white-horsebedford.co.ukTuesday 28th May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise £3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge•Authors in the Garden - a special literary eventPresenting music, poetry and extracts from their 19 published novels, Sue and Leslie will explore the sensual beauty of gardens and how nature can enrich our lives. Kathy Brown’s Garden, The Manor House, Church Road, Stevington. Tel: 01234 822064 info@kathybrownsgarden.com www.kathybrownsgarden.com•Karaoke & CocktailsEsquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•The Old Geezer BandEvery Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington Arms, Wel-lington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033•White Horse Quiz NightTeams of up to 6, 8.30pm, £1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.ukWednesday 29th May •••••••••••••••••••••••••The D Day Darlings - The Songs that Won the WarMarking the 90th anniversary of the Royal British Legion, the show is set in 1939 at the heart of wartime Britain, tak-ing you on a nostalgic journey with classics such as We’ll Meet Again, White Cliffs of Dover and Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy. Tickets £10, 2.30pm, Main Auditorium, Bed-Listings continue on page 8

After a sell-out five star run at the edinburgh Festival, les enfants Terribles come to Bedford for the first time with their new award-winning show, the trench.

From the team behind The Terrible Infants, Ernest and the Pale Moon and The Vaude-villains, comes a new play inspired by the true story of a miner who became entombed in a tunnel during World War One. As the horror threatens to engulf him, he finds that not everything in the darkness is what it seems as he starts to discover a new,

strange world beneath the mud and death. Setting off on an epic journey of salvation, the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur as he questions what’s real, what’s not and whether it even matters? Blending live music, puppetry and physi-cal performance, The Trench is the critically acclaimed new show “from razor sharp theatre company,” Les Enfants Terribles (THE TELEGRAPH). Written by Oliver Lansley (Sky One’s Little Crackers) with music by acclaimed artist Alexander Wolfe we really cannot recommend this highly enough. Tickets are priced £10 from www.bed-fordtheatre.co.uk.

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

8 Let’s brighten up Bedford!

tRENCh at BEdFoRd thEatRE 7.30PM on SATUrdAY 18Th MAY

MAY 2013

PhoToGrAPhY

‘A Vintage Soiree’ is a photography exhibition presenting a series of fifty simple, classic wedding im-ages shot throughout 2012 all inspired by ‘A Black and white era’.

The exhibition by Abraxas Photography will be presented for a week in May at The South Bank Arts Centre at Bedford College. What you will see in the gallery are the very basics of photography with emphasis on Composition, Shape, Form and Texture, all captured in a moment, of a bride. It’s not a series of studio shot images with hours of lighting or tricks. Said Kam of Abraxas: “There were challenging points for photographers and

apart from the fact that we had just one opportunity to get every image right, we would have no more than a couple of minutes at the most to set up and shoot each one. We also had no idea of how each bride would look until the actual wedding day, so the style of image had to be thought of on the spot as it would be dictated by each bride’s individual look. Therefore, in some cases the bride knew we were shooting a particular image, whereas others were taken without them being aware. ‘A Vintage Soiree’ is about showcasing the skills of a team of artists, photographers and retouching specialists at Abraxas Photography.A Vintage Soiree at the South Bank Arts Centre at Bedford College from Monday 6th – Friday 10th May www.abraxasphoto.co.uk

a VINtagE SoIREE

Edward Bawden (1903 – 1989) Aesop’s Fables ‘The Gnat and the Lion’ 1970, linocut © The Edward Bawden Estate

BedYarn hopes to bring some colour, whimsy and happiness into the everyday lives of Bedfordians through the art of yarnbombing. Yarn bombing, yarnbombing, yarnstorm-ing, guerrilla knitting, urban knitting or graffiti knitting is a type of graffiti or street art that employs colourful displays of knit-ted or crocheted yarn or fibre rather than paint or chalk. Displays are non-permanent but can remain in place for years if undis-turbed. The project, commissioned by Bedford Creative Arts, funded by Arts Council England, will culminate on the 8th June in a public Yarnbombing event in Bedford.

You can get involved in a variety of ways and you don’t need to be able to knit or crochet! • Join one of the free knit-ting workshops held in May to learn how to knit.• Donate any old or unused knitting, crochet or other wool projects for use in the Yarnbombing.•Make pom poms or other wool based projects to use in the Yarnbomb. This is a great project for children! • Join us on the 8th June to take part in the Yarnbomb. Your participation can be as easy as wrapping wool around an object to more creative and elaborate works

of art. For more information, please find us at https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/Bedyarn for regular updates!

BEdyaRN NEEdS yoU!CrAFT

Yarnbombing in Madrid

Love music? Love entertaining?Can you pull a crowd? Then we need you!

Saturday 27 July 201310am-4pm

Love Bedford, love Busking Day

For information contact BedfordBID on 01234 404500or visit www.lovebedford.co.uk

ford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk •Beer Tasting ClubTasting a range of bottled ales and discussing their merits. Please register your interest with Bev.From 8pm, The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk •Bedford Rock ChoirSee May 1st. The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•Marie Curie Cancer Care Fundraising Quiz Night£5pp including ploughman’s supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk•Bedford Organ & Keyboard Club ConcertPresenting talented organist Mark Thompson at The Ad-dison Centre, Kempston, Bedford. 8- 10.30pm. Members £4 non-members £5 on the door. Tel: 01234 344423 www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/Bedford

•Reiki Drum Meditation SessionRelax to the constant beat of the drum in this session with Elizabeth Drake at The Friends’ Meeting House, Lans-downe Road, Bedford. 6.45pm-8.30pm. £7. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk•Dance In and For the Community - new work created collaboratively with local peopleUniversity of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bed-ford. 7pm Tickets £5/£3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book.•The Biggest Jam Night in TownHuge open mic night at Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bed-ford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.comThursday 30th May •••••••••••••••••••••••••Jazz Concert at the Barns Hill HouseThe Barn in Carlton welcomes back Tad Newton’s Jazzfriends, who made their debut at The Spice Of Life Jazz Club in London. Tel: 01234 718112 www.thebarn-carlton.co.uk•The Last Chance Ragtime BandLive music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd,

Listings from page 7

Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk•Lino Printing Workshop For Beginners – Printed BroochesWith Scarlett Tierney, a Bedfordshire illustrator and printmaker. Fancy, Roff Avenue, Bedford. 7pm - 10pm. £25. Materials included. Homemade cakes, tea and coffee available to purchase. To book tel: 07792 148558•Andy Parsons - I’ve Got A ShedAndy started in TV on Spitting Image becoming one of the main writers before embarking on a stand-up career which has led to such shows as Mock The Week and Live at the Apollo. Tickets £15, 8pm, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk•MiscastAward winning Northamptonshire Theatre group The-atreworkz in association with local group Fysh2Fry present

talented performers from Northants and Beds, performing hits and parodies from the world of Musical Theatre. Supporting Dreamflight & Leukaemia Research. Tickets £7-£10, starts 7.30pm. Tel Fysh2Fry: 07885 944194. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk•OliverA classic musical theatre production featuring the haunting ballad Where Is Love? to the clamorous ‘Food, Glorious Food, and the cheery You’ve Got to Pick a Pocket or Two. 7.30pm, Bedford Theatre, Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Box Office: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk•Jam Night with Mat RobertsLive music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732•Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls (from The Wonder Stuff)Plus The Ouse Valley Singles Club, Jonny Mudd & Harriet

Langley. Live music on the Mainstage at Esquire’s, Bro-mham Rd, Bedford. Tickets £8.50 from www.wegottickets.com & Dannys Bar. Tel: 01234 340120Friday 31st May ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••The Ben Poole Band + The Carl Linnett TrioLive music on the main stage, Esquire’s, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com•Ceroc Modern Jive NightFreestyle Ceroc fun. Come alone or with a partner for a party atmosphere and a top DJ. Dancing until 12.15am. Tickets £9 on the door, starts 7.45pm. Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s SquareBox Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk www.ceroccentral.com•Oliver See 30th May. www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk•Exec Club Karaoke9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

TheATre

thE BILLyWaLtoN BaNd

REtURNS to BEdFoRd

On Sunday 19th May, the Billy Walton Band will head to Bedford as part of their UK tour. Billy is well known on the New Jersey music scene and has played with East Coast legends Bruce ‘The Boss’ Springsteen and (rumour has it) Bon Jovi. Playing Louisana bluegrass and funky

blues, the eponymous frontman is known for his explosive live performances, so we strongly recommend you get yourselves over to St Mary’s Street and check him out. Live music from 5pm.http://www.billywaltonband.com

MUSIC

The Circus of Illustration have released their first ‘zine this monthfeaturing work from 13 Bedfordshire illustrators inspired by the theme ‘In the woods.’

Each illustrator chose a piece of text, be it a song, poem, comic or excerpt from a book and illustrated it in their own varied styles. The online version is available to read at http://circusofillustration.weebly.com, but they also have some special, limited edition, hand numbered printed copies of the‘In the Woods’ fanzine available to buy. Contact them through twitter @wearethecircus or through their facbeook page www.facebook.com/circusofillustra-tion to get your copy.

Scarlett Tierney, a Bedfordshire illustrator, printmaker and core member of the Circus, will be running a very special introductory lino printmaking workshop at Fancy coffee shop.

After having a chance to look through Scarlett’s portfolio of lino prints, par-ticipants will create printed brooches to take home using this fun and satisfying technique. No experience necessary.Booking essential as spaces are limited. For more information and to book, talk to Scarlett tel: 07792 148558 email: contact@scarlettrebecca.co.uk

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

9Fancy lino printing at Fancy?

At BEdFoRdNEtWoRK we share with you our best experiences of Bedford… From cafes to art galleries and theatres to books. Anything and everything – but only the best.This month we’re soaking up a bit of Spanish sunshine right here in Bedford where you will find not only tapas but music events that are sure to set your toes a-tapping! Andaluz on Castle Road in Bedford is a superb Spanish tapas restaurant and deli with an exciting menu that now includes breakfasts on Saturday mornings (10.00-12.30). As soon as you dip into Anduluz you succumb to the chilled atmosphere and for a blissful little time you can believe you are in a Spanish bar in sunny Espania rather than rainy Bedford! The breakfast menu is full of Span-ish style and scrumptiousness – and all at under £4, with coffee for just £1. An offer we certainly can’t refuse!

Serrano Ham & Cheese PaniniChorizo & Cheese Panini

Goats Cheese & Sundried Tomato PaniniSlice of Tortilla with AlioliAndaluz Style Toast with Tomato & OilChurros & Dipping Chocolate (pure heaven!)

In the evening rock up here to have a lovely supper of Spanish tapas, wine and beer or chill at one of the high tables which are reserved for casual drinkers. Own-ers Brian and Olivia offer friendly advice about the menu so that you can choose tapas and drinks to give your tastebuds a tantalising treat.Top Tip: Look out for the Andaluz monthly music event (first Thursday of the month) – with incredible musicians such as D’Callaos, Danni Nicholls, Lee Spence and many more. Details on Facebook.com/AndaluzShop.Andaluz is at 120a Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3RGwww.andaluzshop.co.ukT: 0791 334 2654 | E: enquiries@andaluz-shop.co.uk | Twitter @AndaluzShopStay tuned to Bedford Network this May when we will be celebrating the people, places and perks that make Bedford unique.www.bedfordnetwork.co.uk Facebook: Facebook.com/BedfordNet-workTwitter: @BedfordNetwork

gREat BEdFoRdIaNS ChaRLES WELLS (1842 – 1914)

MAY 2013

By Gemma Hutton

Charles wells was born in Bedford in 1842, one of six children and the son of George wells and Sarah Gibson. Charles gave up a successful seafaring career and settled down in his home town of Bedford to launch a brewing dynasty....for the love of a woman. While Charles was on leave in the early 1870s he fell in love with Josephine Grimbly from Banbury in Oxfordshire. Josephine’s father approved of the match but he said he would give per-mission for his daughter to marry Charles only if the young man of 30 retired from the Merchant Navy and found a new career that was less dangerous and kept him at home. In spite of his love for Josephine, Charles must have turned his back on the sea with some reluctance, for he seemed destined for high office and success. When he left the Commercial School at the age of 14 he was determined to become a sailor. In 1856 he joined the frigate Devonshire as a midshipman and sailed on her from London to India. He was promoted rapidly and was a chief officer in 1868. He served on several ships including a ship that took troops to India to put down the Mutiny of 1857-8. Charles was in Australia during the Gold Rush but decided not to seek his fortune by joining the prospectors. He was a diligent seaman, gained his Extra Master’s Certificate, and was qualified to serve on steam as well as sailing ships. With the rank of captain, he was offered the command of Wigrams’ first steam ship. But then came a spot of leave and a fateful meeting with Josephine. Charles and Jose-

phine married in 1872. Charles was forced to seek a new career, and when in 1876 the Horne Lane Brewery was put up for sale, Charles saw the potential to carve out a name for himself in an industry that was expanding rapidly and purchased the brewery and a handful of pubs for £16,700. Charles threw himself with enormous vigour into running and building the trade of his brew-ery and in the first year made a creditable profit of £829. Charles purchased new pubs and continued to invest in the brewery. In 1889 he rebuilt parts of the brewery and also improved the Brewery House which he and Josephine shared. Josephine was offered the choice of a riverside view or one facing Horne Lane, surprisingly she chose the street outlook. Charles and Josephine had 8 children, with 4 of them becoming directors of the family business. Charles insisted that they all live in Bedford and firmly vetoed the decision made by one of his sons when he decided to live just two miles outside the town. Charles retained his connections with the sea and sailing. He owned a cutter and was a member of the Royal Portsmouth Corin-thian Yacht Club. He regularly sailed his small boat, the Moorhen, on the River Ouse and was a member of the Bedford Regatta Committee. He was active in public affairs, and was County Councillor from 1892 to 1907. He served on several committees and was a generous benefactor when there was no public funding of health care. He gave financial help to Bedford General Library and was a supporter of St. Paul’s Church,

medical charities and The Nursing Institute. Charles was a member of the Bedford Board of Guardians and took a keen interest in the plight of boys from impoverished families. In 1902 Charles sank a deep well on the Fitzpatrick Estate at the northern end of Bedford deep into the rock. That water, to this day, supplies the brewery site and is an accredited National Mineral Water. In 1904, at his own expense, Charles sank a second well at Franklin’s brickfield on Clapham Road which had an abundant supply of fresh water, which he bequeathed to the town. In the years leading up to the First World War, Charles suffered poor health and died on 18 April 1914. The family hoped for a quiet funeral but there was a notable turnout of townspeople as the coffin made its way to the cemetery chapel. There is a memorial to him in the cem-etery at Foster Hill Road.

IllUSTrATIon

Bedford Craft, Produce and a Cuppa are holding their monthly fayre at the Church lane Community Centre (next to Aldi) on Saturday 4th may.

Alongside the stalls and café will be a children’s jewellery workshop hosted by SuQu Designs. The free sessions will be held at 10am, 11.30am and 1pm and places are limited. Children will learn how to make friendship or stretchy bracelets (depend-ing on their age. They’ve also got a wood turner demonstrating on the day too, so there’s lots going on.

Charles Wells: Cheers!

CrAFT

The MS Therapy Centre in Barkers lane Bedford, which provides therapies, services and support to over 1000 people with MS in the local area, celebrates its 30th anniversary this June, and has challenged each of its members, friends and family to raise £30.

The Centre was established in 1983, and has grown in response to demand, from a small unit on an industrial estate in Bedford to the current purpose-built premises on Barkers Lane. All of the money needed to build the Centre and provide its services come from the generous support of its mem-bers, friends, Trusts, local businesses and organisations. We use many volunteers, and in 2009, the Centre was awarded the Queen’s award for voluntary services. Some of the therapies provided are counselling, oxygen therapy, a dietician and a speciallyand a specially designed gym. The Centre employs an MS specialist Nurse

and occu-pational therapist, and arranges access to conti-nence services. Comple-mentary therapies include shi-atsu, pilates and yoga. Computer training, transport and the loan of specialist pieces of equipment are also vital aspects of the sup-port which is offered to people with MS. 30th Anniversary celebrations will be focused on the month of June, with mem-bers taking part in a wide range of activities to raise their £30, including a group who will be abseiling down the Otis lift tower in Northampton. Festivities will peak with the annual Strawberry Tea and Fete, which will take place on Sunday 30th June (1-4pm). The Centre is grateful to everyone who has supported them over the years, and

welcomes any donations for their £30 chal-lenge.

£30 for 30 years – can anyone else help?

We will be holding special fundrais-ing events all through June, and would be delighted if you could attend:

Strawberry Tea and Fete at the MS Therapy Centre on Sunday 30th June (1-4pm)For more details contact Val or Tracy on 01234 325781 or email: msfundraising@hotmail.co.uk

mS thERapy CENtRE SEtS £30 ChaLLENgESoCIeTY

IN thE WoodS

66 Stanley Street, Bedford, MK41 7RU 01234 330056‘Your Local’

Voted North Beds CAMRA Most Improved Pub 2013 For a decent pint, quality lager or glass of good wine. 4 hand pumps with regularly changing

guest ale. Home of ‘Pie on a Plate’. Small courtyard Garden.

pRINt WoRKShop

By Jane Perrone

down the stone path, hang a left through the wooden arch and I’m standing in the garden of eden, complete with apple trees.

Would you Adam and Eve it - Bedford IS the cradle of civilisation, after all! Anyone walking down Albany Road in the Castle Quarter cannot have failed to wonder what lay behind the high brick walls across the road from the small patch of allotments, or heard the gentle chime of the diminu-tive clock tower. Now the “campus” of the Panacea Society, a religious community formed in Bedford in the early twentieth century, are being opened up to the public for the first time. Far-fetched though it may sound, the So-ciety’s followers believed that the gardens which surround their chapel and houses stand on the site of the Biblical garden of Eden, where the serpent persuaded Eve to eat the forbidden fruit: they spent their time preparing for Jesus’ return, keeping the garden as a kind of heaven on earth. The

last surviving member died last year, but the Society’s archives, build-ings and gardens are now being looked after by the Panacea Charitable Trust. Eden or not, the gardens, with their mature trees, lawns, topiary and stone carved

benches, are delight-ful. Curiously, the tree of knowledge for the Panaceans was not the fabled apple, but an imposing weeping ash tree with snaking branches that wouldn’t look out of place in a Tolkien novel. This tree - called Yggdrasil after the tree of life and knowledge from ancient Norse mythol-ogy - marks the centre of the universe in the Panacea worldview. There are more curiosities, too: a large cage in which the leader of the Panacea Society, Mabel Barltrop, kept a tame magpie, and a clock tower and chapel that wouldn’t look out of place in toytown, built in the 1930s. The bell inside the clock tower is called ‘Little Ben’ and the Panaceans believed that every time the

bell rang, their message was being pro-claimed: you can still hear its chime today. And there are plenty of beautiful plants and trees for the horticulture fans among you, from the fine standard camellias at the front entrance and spring bulbs scattered through the flowerbeds, to a line of silver birches and a statuesque copper beech tree. No garden visit would be complete without the opportunity for tea and cake. Catering at the open days will be provided by the Kiosk at Russell Park, so why not settle down for a picnic on the lawns? Inside the museum, you can find out more about the Panacea Society’s curious beliefs, including the mysterious sealed box containing the prophecies of Joanna South-cott, a female prophet of the eighteenth century, and the healing powers of Mabel Barltrop, the group’s messianic ‘Shiloh’

figure. The Panacea Society is a unique Bedford institution, so don’t miss your op-portunity to peek inside. The museum and gardens will be open to visitors on the second Saturday of the month until September: the next open day is May 11 from 10.30am to 4.30pm, last ad-mission 3pm. Entrance is free, but booking is essential: contact 01234 353178 or email museum@panacea-society.org. The main entrance to the museum is at 9 Newnham Road, adjacent to The Higgins Art Gallery and Museum. Private groups of 8-20 people can arrange to tour the museum and grounds at other times: please contact the museum for details.

For more information visit the Panacea Charitable Trust website panacea-society.org.

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

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

10

reCIPeCaFE VIRtUoSoLENtIL & tomato pâté

BEdFoRd’S SLICE oF EdENGArdenInG

CoFFee & CAKe

MAY 2013

here at Cafe Virtuoso we have just introduced our new Summer Menu which includes lovely tasty salads, smoothies and even veggie burgers.One of our most recent addi-tions, Lentil and Tomato pate, has been so popular, we thought we would share the recipe with you. It comes served with cherry tomatoes, mixed leaf salad and warm bread. However if you prefer to come and give it a try, come in for a special 10% discount by mentioned the Bedford Clanger.

INgREdIENtSLarge mug red lentils (wash and rinse in hot water until clear)1 heaped dessert spoon of tomato puree 1 heaped teaspoon of yeast extract 1 heaped teaspoon oregano1 heaped teaspoon of basil 1 heaped tea-spoon of mixed herbs½ teaspoon of sugar 1 teaspoon of paprika a drop of soya sauce Salt & pepper to taste

mEthod Place all in saucepan with enough cold wa-ter to cover to 3-4 cm above the mixture. Do not use too much water – watch and add

more water if necessary. Simmer until all the water is absorbed and it is cooked. Add more water if required. Stir so that it does not stick. Blend the mixture with blender when cooked. Leave to cool. Add olive oil and mix in.Add boiling water if too stiff.Should be spreadable.Put in jars and refrigerate. Stores for 10 days in fridge

SPonSored BY: CaFE VIRtUoSo 7 harpur Street, Bedford, MK40 1lA: www.cafevirtuoso.co.uk

hERB gaRdEN opEN dayIf you’ve ever wandered down Castle road and wondered what all the herb garden at the rothsay roundabout is all about, now is your chance to find out.

The community herb garden is holding its annual open day on May 18 from 10.30am to 3pm. Everyone is welcome to pop along to buy plants and cakes, give and receive plants on the plant swap table, meet a local beekeeper and find out more about our pre-cious pollinators, and find out what herbs they could be growing and using in their kitchens. There will be activities for chil-

dren, and Jane Perrone will lead a foraging walk and talk at 11am: Red Cuthbert Morris will be strutting their stuff at intervals throughout the day.

By Stephen Bywater

As far back as I can remember the Cheese Kitchen has been an institution on the Castle road and the area continues to flourish with so many independent shops and cafes. The Cheese Kitchen is one – now two – destinations and, with Justin and Helen working tirelessly to support the quarter, it would be nice to see the area signposted and the council not forgetting how attractive the suburbs have become with the help of places such theirs. But how has the Cheese Kitchen changed, or what is the Cheese Kitchen, if you’re not familiar with the Castle Road? Well, not only is it still a popular café in the daytime, serving Justin’s delicious soups amongst other things, but in the evening it is evolving into a bistro where comfort food on Wednesday and Thursday evenings are cooked by Helen. The menu sensibly avoids limitless choice and plumps for three or four dishes. Imagine your best friend’s mum is offering to cook your favourite dish and you’ll get the picture. Each dish is usually either a meat or veggie one, and being Lent

I had the aubergine moussaka and salad and Lucy chose the veggie sausage casserole. I was sorely tempted by spaghetti with meatballs, but managed to maintain my self-discipline, and was amply rewarded by a rich mousakka bursting with aubergines, tomatoes and garlic. For puddings we had a steamed ginger-sponge with chunks of fiery ginger – and the best school custard imagin-able, and rhubarb cheesecake, fresh, creamy and with the perfect biscuit base. There’s ar-tisan beer and wine available and the whole experience is reminiscent of a London chop house. So I say ditch the midweek TV din-ner and, for a couple of quid more, have a civilised and tasty supper. Or, if you want take a culinary journey to the land of haute cuisine, wait until Friday or Saturday and experience what the TV Masterchef, Alec Tomasso, has prepared for your delectation. www.thecheesekitchen.co.uk

Food thE ChEESE KItChEN

Phot

os: H

azer

a Fo

rth

Ah, my mouth is watering

If you sometimes feel that Bedford is lacking in the cosmopolitan cafe culture that is much sought-after in the slightly less balmy parts of europe, then you need to take a stroll down to The lane in Castle quay (after your siesta, of course.)

Wine bar by night, cool hangout by day; this is a great place to come at pretty much any time of the day. Overlooking the Castle gardens, embankment and the river, it is also one of the most stylish places in Bed-ford to enjoy a coffee and a generous slice of cake. Sitting out on the terrace in the sun, with the pedestrianised area around the

remains of the castle creating a perfect space to let children run free for a bit, it really does feel like the cafe-culture dream. Inside it is as stylish as out, with a huge, elegant chandelier hung over one of the tables that overlook the floor-to-ceiling windows; the bar is made from the flooring of an old badmin-ton court. The Lane offers a cup of coffee or tea and a slice of cake for £3.50, so it is definitely style on a budget. The day we went was a beautiful sunny day (I am hoping that the one day does not constitute an entire spring,) and it really did show off the beautiful location. Not to mention the food. The fig, pistachio and almond tart was astounding. The figs were actual, whole figs, which made the tart

really, well, just incredibly figgy. It was fruity and nutty and served with cream or ice cream. Completely deli-cious. Rich (Mr Coffee and Cake, who had volunteered his cake-expertise) sampled the coffee and walnut cake, which was one of the most generous slices of cake either of us had ever seen. It was incredibly moist, with gooey coffee icing and plenty of

real walnut. It would be almost irresponsible to talk about The Lane without mentioning the magnificent cocktail menu. Mojitos, Cos-mopolitans, Apple Martinis; all the classics are here, plus some seasonal specials. And yes, I did taste one, just to double-check. Perfect.

wIne BAr TreATS: AT thE LaNE

By Rev Sharon Grenham Toze. Prison chaplain and BBC radio broadcaster. And glam.

with the summer finally looking like it’s on its way, I’ve been able to indulge in my new addiction – I’m learning to sail.

I’m lucky enough to have a friend with a lovely yacht – a Feeling 920 apparently, for those of you who know far more about it than me – and he’s taken on the role of tutor. One of the things that has amazed me is how many everyday phrases we use come from sailing terms – things like being ‘broad in the beam’ or the ‘mainstay’, times when we think we’re going to ‘keel over’ and, of course, when we’re ‘sailing close to the wind.’ I suppose we do have a long-standing history as a maritime nation, but as some-one who’s been a landlubber for most of her years, it’s quite an education. Well, the friend who’s very patiently teaching me reckons there are 4 different types of novice sailor. You’ve got the ones who want to sun themselves on the deck all day, and get a bit fed up when they’re expected to muck in and work. Then there are the ones who panic at the slightest thing, end up making a hash of things, and everyone else has to bail them out (another sailing term there!). You’ve got the over-confident ones, who think they know it all because they’ve read a book – often the most dangerous types. And then there are

those who’ll give it a go, but are very aware of their limitations, and will ask for help or advice when they don’t know what to do. As you might imagine, it’s this last type who tends to learn quickly, and then get the best out of the experience. It’s not so different on land really. I bet we can all think of examples of each type! I know I’ve worked with a few over the years. This week I’ve been spending quite a bit of time talking to one of ‘my’ prisoners. He’s not a young man, and he has a long history of offending, but he’s now reached the stage where he wants to sort his life out. He’s taken the all-important first step, shown the maturity to recognise he’s been getting it wrong, and has asked for help. We’ll do our best to give it.

It’s not easy, asking for help. Most of us have the mindset that says we don’t want to bother people, or we don’t want to look weak. There’s a hymn I love (What a Friend we have in Jesus) that goes ‘Oh what peace we often forfeit, oh what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.’ Well, praying may or may not be your thing, but the hymn words are useful

shorthand. Struggling on may not be the right thing to do – and most people love being asked to lend a hand. If we can be humble enough to recognise we don’t have all the answers, or maybe brave enough to recognise we’re not making headway, then asking for help, for a lifeline, may decide whether we sink, or swim.

Follow Sharon Grenham-Toze on Twitter@glamvicar

LUCIE FULLERBy Rachael Ricelucie Fuller is a great nominee for the local hero for May.

She (and her husband, Steve) have worked tirelessly to bring the Burnaby Arms on Stanley St near Bedford Park up to a very high standard and become a beacon in the local community. You need only pop into the Burnaby to see all of the great things going on there along with the cool vibe and the warm welcome. It has become the local with a heart. Lucie offers local musicians and small business people like me a chance to get involved in the local scene – live music nights, brunch club events, commu-nity choir caroling, wine tastings, and with summer finally showing its face, bbqs and parties. Lucie nominated the Burnaby for the PRS Music Matters competition – and it won! Kitted out with a fine new PA system, you will hear even more great music. If you haven’t been to the Burnaby Arms before or in awhile, it’s time you went and saw for yourself what all the fuss is about! Thank you Lucie, keep doing what you’re doing!- Kris Wilkinson Hughes, local singer/songwriter, owner of the Frogs’ Chorus and Ruby Falls Brunch Club.

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

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BEhINd thE SCENES at thE mUSEUm

BEhINd thE WaLLS WIth a pRISoN ChapLaIN: we Are SAIlInG

relIGIon

SPonSorS oF: LoCaL hERoES

MAY 2013

lucie Fuller

by Lydia Saul, Keeper of Social History, The Higgins Bedford.

with the much- anticipated reopening of The higgins Bedford on 21st June fast approaching, we’re all working very hard to get the new galleries ready.

This week we’ve been unpacking a little bit of Bedford’s history to install in Place Gallery 2. These collections relate to the later development of Bedford as an agri-cultural and industrial town. This includes both large objects, such as the Howard’s Champion Plough and small items like medals. It covers both Victorian domestic leisure activities, and what it was like in Bedford during the War. It has objects that are light as a feather, such as Garibaldi’s pen and heavy bits of kit such as the brickwork’s Clocking In machine and W H Allen’s apprentices scale engine model. It cov-ers Victorian Bedford’s prosperity and growth, times of innovation such as Dan Albone’s Ivel Trac-tor, as well as times of trauma such as the crash of the Airship R101 in France. The installation of each object presents its own challenges; many will have specially made mounts to help the visitors see them at their best. The objects are a physical reminder of the stories of the people of Bedford over the decades living and working here and how the diverse population of Bedford developed to the com-munity it is today. The social history collections have been

enhanced by objects donated by many individuals. Here we highlight the collec-tions of two individuals that have been signifi-cant in putting together the displays for Place Gallery 2. Sandy Chrystal was born in Bedford in 1927 and loved his town. He attended The Bedford Training College School at the Crescent for 4 years under Miss Spence before becoming a pupil at Bedford School from 1936 – 1945. He set up his own architect firm at The Grove, Bedford in 1961 with his brother-in-law Bernard West as his partner. During his

lifetime Sandy Chrystal amassed one of the largest collec-tions of Bedfordiana – over 350 objects were generously

donated to the museum by his family in 2007. They are the ordinary objects of everyday life in our town from a hundred, and more, years ago. Many items came from shops and trades in Bedford, including High Street names, as well as a large collection of objects relating to Bedfordshire’s brewing industry. Andrew Underwood was born in Ampthill in May 1934. He devoted his life to researching the

history of his town. He also collected a lot of documentary

material as well as objects that related to his family and to the general history of the area which he later donated to the archives and the museum. He wrote numerous publi-cations about Ampthill and wanted to share his love and knowledge of history with others. Andrew was a school master at Bedford Modern School and was appointed the

school’s archivist in 1972, a post which he held until 1998. He has donated over 180 objects to the museum collec-tion ranging from items used by Grandfather Albert Grimmer, such as a fireman’s helmet relat-ing to Ampthill’s fire brigade. An important collection of objects relate to the Second World War and what it was like in Bedfordshire during that time. A col-

lection of bits of bomb and shrapnel were donated through Mr Underwood that show Bedfordshire did not fully escape the Blitz unscathed. We hope that by displaying some of the many items he has donated that his desire for our local history to be shared with all will continue as his legacy.

UNpaCKINg a BIt oF BEdFoRd

by Sarah Cowleywhen I first began the Prince’s Trust course based in Bedford I was an incredibly shy and introverted person.

I had lost self-confidence and lacked stabil-ity in my life which left me feeling like little more than a hopeless youth. I was recom-mended the course by a friend and simply joined to fill some time, though I never really had any expectations for the course to be of any help. I was wrong. The Prince’s Trust course focuses upon employability and team building skills among young people aged 16-25. Throughout the weeks the team of 12-15 young people engage in a variety of

activities including a week away complet-ing outdoor activities, fundraising for the local community and working with many services such as the local fire station. Not one week was wasted and I found that I was never bored, which means a lot considering I am a restless 17 year old. In particular I remember our week away where - for free - we travelled to Kent to an outdoor activity centre. Whilst there we participated in rock climbing, abseiling, archery, a night hike and many more activities including a few childish pranks along the way. Our fundrais-ing week was also fun as we all put on fancy dress outfits and went to local shops to raise money. However, more than anything it was the amazing team leaders and team members who made the last three months so memo-rable. I have had a number of teachers, mentors and tutors throughout my life, but

the attitude of the leaders Yemi and Ravi was completely new to me. Their relaxed style of leadership made everyone feel com-fortable from the beginning and everyone found that they could quickly open up to our mentors. They felt more like friends to us than mentors though they knew when to take a harsher approach with us to push us to achieve our goals. As for my team members, I have an endless amount of wonderful things to say about each and every individual. It was an extraordinary experience to see the change in each person across the weeks and to see peoples’ personalities grow. Now that the course has ended we all seem to feel confident and motivated to achieve the best that we can in life. But more than this, I am delighted by the friendships I have formed within the group. Before I met these wonderful people I found it extremely difficult to open up to anyone which caused me to become an isolated person. They have taught me to trust others again and have supported me through the worst of times throughout the course. I have loved the past weeks spent with Yemi, Ravi, Lucy, Ieva, Josh, Ewan, Jack, Ryan, Natalie, Ezras, Fern, Chris, Ashleigh, Lawrence and Meshach. I would recom-mend the course to any young person as it is a fantastic opportunity for people of all kinds.

thE pRINCE’S tRUSt IS ChaNgINg LIVESSoCIeTY

That’s great news, Sarah!

THE CHEESE KITCHENCAFE - BISTRO – CHEESE ROOM – DELICATESSEN

Coffee, baked patisserie, freshly made baguettes, homemade hot foodartisan cheese, fine wines, well stocked deli, bistro evenings with “Masterchef ” Alec Tomasso.

104b/108 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QRTelephone: 01234 217325, Email:thecheesekitchen@gmail.com

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

12

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

Designer: Marisa Straccia (madamebogg.blogspot.co.uk)Advertising Director: Gemma Rogers (@clangerads)Listings Supremo: Bev Burridge (@... well, we just love her)Front cover design: Marisa StracciaAdditional editorial: Edward Keech, Bill & Wendy Roffe, Lloyd Lugs-

den, Gemma Hutton, Sue Gough, Caroline Wise (congrats on your new arrival!), Lydia Saul, Rachael Rice, Paula WalkerEditorial Intern: Sarah Cowley Gardening: Jane PerroneFoodie: Stephen Bywater Musos: Richard Smith, Lloyd LugsdenSnappy Snappers: Donnie Canning, Andy Wilsher, Graham Watson, Hazera Forth Proof Reader: Inga Wharton

Stone Roses film in Bedford! Brilliant!

MAY 2013

FAShIon

well, winter’s finally, finally over so it’s time to pack away the woollies and start thinking about getting our summer wardrobe sorted. We recommend you head straight to The Arcade for a welcome splash of this sea-son’s must have colours. In Boutique Planet you’ll find pastels and brights, owner Nick’s handpicked selection of the White Stuff collection, some great Superdry pieces and new for S/S13 is a capsule collection from 55DSL by Diesel. Keep your feet looking fabulous in fashion’s perennial flip flops – Havainanas. For the boys, you’re spoilt for choice in Planet and Maysons. Planet is stocking King, Addict and Circa81 new for this sea-

son, with Superdry and G-Star too. In Maysons it’s all about colour. A wall of seasonally bright Ralph Lauren cannot fail to lift your spirits as you walk in and if it’s denim you’re after, with over 50 styles from Diesel, Armani Jeans , Stone Island & Boss there’s no shortage of choice. Contemporary classics from Fred Perry and Lyle & Scott sit alongside the edgier Vivienne Westwood collection. A/W13 will see the arrival of Alexander McQueen as well as Boss Orange & Boss Green. Maysons is one of only a handful of indies in the country to stock both Boss diffusion ranges, so make sure you check them out. Photos: Donnie Canning

By Paula Walker

The Stevington village community is coming together to liven up the Bank holiday Monday on 27th May. Following the successful Well Dressing and re-enactment of an extract from John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress last year, the energetic folk in Stevington are going a step further this year. Kathy Brown’s beauti-ful garden will be the setting for a ‘Vanity Fair’, loosely based on Pilgrim’s Progress. The fun begins at 1pm with a variety of stalls, games, face painting and live music. Refreshments, liquid and otherwise, will be available throughout the afternoon (be warned: there are some seriously good bak-ers in the village). You might spot Christian and his companion Faithful wandering around, appalled at the excesses they are surrounded by! This is also an opportunity to visit the beautiful four-acre garden itself. Experi-ence the wisteria walk with arches covered with clematis, wisteria and honeysuckle and elsewhere enjoy the early roses, alliums, foxgloves, irises, poppies and much more. Don’t forget to explore the many other inspiring areas of the garden. At 5pm there will be the first part of the lively play, the arrest of Christian and Faith-ful for criticising the excesses of the Vanity Fair (all parts played by locals). There will also be music and children’s dancing on the lawn. The festivities

continue at the church, where the rest of the play, the trial of Christian and Faithful, with Lord Hategood overseeing the proceed-ings, will take place. Well Dressing, a tradition thought to originate in Derbyshire, was brought to Ste-vington last year. A stain-glassed window in the Stevington Baptist Church of John Bunyan’s Christian, at what could be Stev-ington Cross, provided the inspiration. The photograph shows the stunning result – a picture formed entirely of flower petals and leaves pressed into a large frame containing damp clay. The stained glass window of John Bunyan writing in his prison cell will provide the basis for this year’s Well Dress-ing picture. Going a step further, there will also be a children’s Well Dressing. Both can be seen from 26th May at the church (entry free). What a wonderful example of com-munity cohesion Stevington is displaying, in aiming to follow on from what they achieved last year! Entry to the garden and Vanity Fair is £4.50 (children free)Entry to the play in the Church: £8 (all proceeds to the church)More information can be found atwww.kathybrownsgarden.com

GArdenSroll UP, roll UP! enJoY The FUn oF The FAIr AT StEVINgtoN!

If you are a fan of the Stone Roses, then it’s likely that you are aware of Shane meadows’ much anticipated documentary about them.Made of Stone premiered in Manchester at the end of April and tickets sold out in just one minute. Bedford-based Roses fans can see the film at Cineworld at a special ‘one day only’ screening on 30th May.

Tickets must be booked in advance so check out www.cineworld.co.uk for further info.

Bedford Cineworld has generously of-

fered us three pairs of tickets to see the one-off screening of Made of Stone on 30th May. To be in with a chance of winning, just answer this insultingly simple question: Who directed Made of Stone? Please email your name and the answer to thebedfordclanger@gmail.com by 24th May.

pUt a SpRINg IN yoUR StEp

FIlM madE oF StoNE To Be Shown In BEdFoRd

The Stone roses at heaton Park

Phot

o: a

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Bedford Uprising group ‘Centred’ are using Mental Health Aware-ness Week as a platform to promote their SAC (so-cial action campaign) to raise the profile of depression in young men. Depression is widely regarded as being more common in women than it is in men. Only 1 in 10 men will receive treatment for depression compared to 1 in 4 women; how-ever 75% of people who die from suicide, which is a high risk of depression, are men. With the tagline ‘Don’t Mask Depres-sion’, Centred are keen to raise awareness of depression in young men and to also break the taboo of young men seeking help and advice for Mental Health issues in the local Bedford area. They plan to communi-cate their message with posters, social net-

working sites, videos, radio and television. During Mental Health Awareness Week, Centred will take part in a Facebook

campaign where they will get as many people as possible to display the Centred logo and mask as their profile picture. The mask image symbolises how men generally tend to conceal their feelings rather than talk about them and seek help and treatment. Centred have communicated with mental health charity the Bedfordshire and Luton Mind to help promote their

campaign. Substance abuse, lack of motivation, anger, insomnia and loss of sense of humour are all signs of male depression. If you are worried about yourself or a friend, more info can be found here: http://goodmenproject.com/health/spotting-the-warning-signs-of-depression-in-men/

To find out more (and to discover how to add the Centred ‘mask’) you can follow Centred on twitter @Centred_Bedford or

join their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cen-tred-Bedford/409482325796717?fref=ts.

mENtaL hEaLth aWaRENESS WEEK 12Th -19Th MAY

SoCIeTY

CompEtItIoN