The Bedford Clanger April - June 2014

8/12/2019 The Bedford Clanger April - June 2014

1/40

ALSO

FESTIVAL FEVER SEE INSIDE FOR

OUR FULL ROUND UP OF THE

SPRING FESTIVITIES . FOOD

OUR REVIEW OF ST HELENA

PEDAL POWER

THE WOMENS TOUR WHIZZES INTO

BEDFORD ON 8TH MAY

FIND OUT MORE IN THE NEWS

AND OUT & ABOUT PAGES

WIN!

TWO PAIRS OF TICKETS TO THE

NT LIVE PERFORMANCE OF KING

LEAR AT CINEWORLD BEDFORD

ON 1 MAY . SEE THE FILM PAGE

CLANGER

THE BEDFORD

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

APR-JUNE 2014

ISSUE 3

1 WHERE SOLD


2/40

THE BEDFORDCLANGER

APR-JUNE 2014

2

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

01234 718112 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk

Comedy Club4 Kids

SUN 13THAPRIL | 2.30PM MON 5TH MAY | 1.30PM& 4.00PM

Little HowardsBig Show For Kids

Othello:Moor of VeniceTUES 29THAPRIL | 7.30PM

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

Bedford

BROADWAY BABY

FEST

,

Genius'

RADIO TIMES

Incredibly, achingly

funny

THE DAILY MAIL

BRITISH COMEDY

GUIDE

FAMILIES

ONLINE


3/40

APR-JUNE 2014

3

project, visit one of themany museums, take atrip on the John BunyanCommunity Boat, swingby the Little Free Library.Become a HometownTourist.

Of course, weappreciate that there aresome parts of Bedford thatneed improving we donthave our Clanger rose-tinted glasses on all thetime. But we need to takeresponsibility for our townand accept that if werenot part of the solution,were part of the problem.Its easy to wait for others

to do something. Take theinitiative, take a stance, dosomething brilliant to makeyour town better.

Erica, Alice

& Team Clanger

Working on The Clanger,we are constantly amazedand delighted that thereare so many brilliant thingsgoing on in a town thesize of Bedford. If anyoneever says theres nothing

to do here, they should trycompiling the Listings!

Its easy to becomeblas about where you live.You walk the same streetsday after day and youstop noticing the stuff thatmakes the town unique.You constantly hanker forthe halcyon days, ratherthan relishing what Bedfordhas to offer right here, right

now.This Spring, weve got

world class athletes, worldclass theatre, world classcomedy and world classfestivals coming to town.And when Martha Reeves& the Vandellas play theCorn Exchange on 7th Aprilwe have got a bona de,world class musical legendin our midst.

So this season, donttake Bedford for granted.Join one of the guidedtours, take part in BCAsHip Hop versus Monuments

CLANGER

THE BEDFORD

Contributors:

Editor:Erica Roffe [email protected] @bed-fordclanger

Associate Editor:Alice [email protected] @aliceandsarahFront cover imagery: ChristianWebb www.christmaswebb.wix.com/photograph-websiteDesigners:Adam [email protected] &Kristina [email protected]:Graham Watson@grahamshoots & Cat LanePhotography

Hometown Tourist columnist:Kristine Hugheswww.frogschorus.comMusos:Richard Smith & LloydLugsden @phaffandpotterFilm: Paul Hutchinson@bedfordlmfestGardening: Jane Perronehttp://perrone.blogs.comCulture & Theatre:Paula Walker @pauliwauli2The Listing:[email protected]

Great Bedfordian illustration:www.davidlitcheldillustration.comThe Last Word:CarolineClark Erica Alice

With so much on, my only problem this summer with be tting it all in!


4/40

Cycling is on the up and with recent Team

GB Olympic success, competitive cycling is

now growing in popularity as an exhilarating

spectator sport. Therefore, we are thrilled

that The Womens Tour (the countrys first ever

international stage race for women) will bring

the worlds best riders to Bedford Borough on

Thursday 8th May 2014.

Were particularly excited that reigning World andOlympic Road Race Champion Marianne Vos will betaking part in The Womens Tour. The Dutch rider is widelyacknowledged as the greatest ever female cyclist,having won World titles on the road, track and in cyclo-

cross, plus Olympic Gold in the former two.

Commenting on The Womens Tour, which forms animportant part of her 2014 race programme, MarianneVos said;

Its great that we get a big new stage race on ourcalendar with The Womens Tour. The times that Iveraced in Great Britain with of course the LondonOlympic Games fresh in my mind I have been amazedby the huge crowds and the enthusiastic people. Imsure it will be a fantastic event and Im looking forward tocompeting here with the best riders from all over

the World.

So join us and cheer the competitors on along theHigh Street and Embankment on 8th May to witness thepinnacle of World Cycling right here in Bedford. You canalso take part in the Wheels Festival in St Pauls Square(more info can be found in the Out & About pages).

THE BEDFORDCLANGER

4

APR-JUNE 2014

Pedal to the metal ladies! Or tarmac really I suppose...

BEDFORD NEWS Pedal Power!The UKs first ever Womens

Tour will visit BedfordBorough on 8th May.

The Womens Tour will start on Wednesday

7th May in Northamptonshire.

Stage one will start in Oundle inNorthamptonshire and nish in NorthamptonTown Centre.

Stage two on Thursday 8th May will start in

Hinckley in Leicestershire and travel south to endin Bedford Borough.

Stage Three on Friday 9th May will take placein Essex, based around Clacton-on-Sea in theTendring District of the county.

Hertfordshire hosts Stage Four on Saturday10th May, starting in Cheshunt, and nishing inWelwyn Garden City.

The nal and fth Stage on Sunday 11th Maywill start in Harwich in Essex and nish in Bury StEdmunds in the heart of Suffolk.

The 5 stages are:


5/40

a tale about madness and

obsession, where the carnal

and the supernatural come

clammily together.

5

APR-JUNE 2014

Oiight luv? Paand a bag? Nah betta deal this sidea the Ouse!

You probably are already aware that The BedfordClanger shares its Gardening Editor Jane Perrone - witha lesser known publication called The Guardian. Janehas also published a book about allotmenteering calledThe Allotment Keepers Handbook. Not content to restat one published contributor, weare thrilled to announce that our

Foodie, Stephen Bywater has hisvery own book out in April.

Stephen Bywater, Head ofEnglish at Bedford Modern and FoodCritic for The Clanger is due to havehis rst novel published by Headlineat the end of April. The DevilsArk, is a tale about madness andobsession, where the carnal and thesupernatural come clammily together.It interweaves fact and ction with anarchaeological dig in Iraq in the late1920s and touches upon Lilith, Adams

rst wife; the queen of the nightbanished from the Garden of Eden forchallenging Gods authority.

The narrator is Harry Ward, shaped,in part, by sympathetic accounts of

Love Your LocalMarket

A week of markets will take place in Bedford

town centre to mark Love Your Local MarketWeek between the 19th-24th May 2014.

Bedford Borough Council will again be offering theopportunity for local residents and community groupsto run a market stall by offering discounted ratesthroughout the week.

Love Your Local Market is a national initiative thataims to raise the prole of all town centre markets andattract new shoppers and market traders.

Bedfords market history dates back 800 years whenKing Henry II granted the charter in 1166 which allowedBedfordians to hold their own market. In spite of thedifcult economic climate for street markets and town

centres in recent years, Bedford Market has bucked thetrend and has been extended to cover a larger area ofthe town centre.

A market was held on St Pauls Square since the1500s until eventually it outgrew the site and movedto the Riverside Square car park nearly 20 years ago. InFebruary 2002 the market returned to its roots on St PaulsSquare and Harpur Square, bringing it back to the heartof Bedford town centre.

If you would like to hold a market during Love YourLocal Market Week or you are interested in becoming amarket trader, please contact Paul Jamieson on 01234

718676 or email [email protected]

those driven mad by the Great War. Twelve years afterghting in Mesopotamia he returns to the land wherehe lost his faith, his mind and almost his life. Hauntedby bloody visions, he takes the place of a missing

photographer on an archaeological digat a ziggurat outside of Mosul. As the digprogresses Ward begins to realise that

what theyre uncovering is somethingfar more sinister than just a long-lostAssyrian temple.

The novel is already availableto pre-order through Amazon andStephen hopes to have his secondsupernatural thriller, a novel set inHenry Fords Fordlandia - a vast rubberplantation founded in the heart of theBrazilian rainforest - on the shelves ofWaterstones by this time next year.Congratulations, Stephen!

Another Clanger contributor in print!

Bernie & GemmasPlay Cafe87-91 Tavistock Street

If you are the keeper ofsmall children and haveever spent what wassupposed to be a relaxinghalf an hour in a caf,which instead turnedout to be half an hour ofhissing reminders aboutsitting down nicely andnot running around likeloons at lively children who generally make a stop offat a caf a Very Stressful Thing, you need to hit Tavistock

Street and nd Bernie & Gemmas Play Caf.

Designed with pre-schoolers and their parents inmind, the caf is all about eating, drinking AND playing.Open 9.00-3.30, Monday-Saturday, its somewherekids can play, colour, and eat healthy snacks orlunches. Oh, and you can have a nice, relaxed cupof tea too. They also run regular events like BabyReexology, breastfeeding advice, sessions for childrenwith disabilities, Piccolos Music Club and Tatty Bumpkinactivities.

Have a look at their facebook page: Bernie & GemmasCaf Play for more info, or call 01234 210303.


6/40

majority of children come back yearafter year along with their siblingsand friends, said Frances Billingtonof BMS. Our staff are enthusiastic,well qualied and experiencedand the safety and welfare of thechildren in our care is theirprimary concern.

For more information or to requesta copy of the 2014 Holiday ActivityCourse brochure please contactthe Holiday Activity Course Ofceon 01234 332667 or go to www.bedmod.co.uk to book thecourses online.

THE BEDFORDCLANGER

6

APR-JUNE 2014

Sharing is caring so they say, I am mightily tempted to care a lot about this little library!

BEDFORD NEWS

LondonBy Edward Bawden

22nd May 26th October

2014 at The Higgins

Bedford.

London by Edward Bawden,a new exhibition at The HigginsBedford, showcases the artistand designers unique andiconic vision of the city. Openingon the 22nd May 2014, theexhibition includes Bawdenswork for London Underground,his large, structural linocutsof London monuments andLondon markets, and imagesof the horse guards and Kew

Gardens. These remarkableimages offer insight into howBawdens relationship with thecity developed throughout hislong career.

With previously unseenadvertising material, hugelinocuts as well as some ofBawdens original lino blocks,this exhibition delves deep intothe archive held at The HigginsBedford. It allows us to view thecapital city through Bawdens

eyes. This exquisite exhibition willbe accompanied by a series oftalks, more information on thesecan be found at:www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Installing a Little Free Library atKiosk at The Park was the brightidea of local reading enthusiastRachael Rogan. Little Free Library is

an initiative that started in America- a take a book, return a bookgathering place where neighboursshare their favourite literature andstories. Essentially, a Little Free Libraryis a box full of books where anyonemay stop by and pick up a bookand bring back another bookto share.

At the Kiosk there is a mix ofbooks for children and grown ups,and so far the shelves have beenregularly stocked and restocked

with a wonderful mix of novels, shortstories, board books and story books.

Theres more info on the Kiosk blog:www.kioskparklife.wordpress.com,including a picture of the green roofdesigned by Jane Perrone.

Stuck for something fun for the kidsto do during the Easter and Summerholidays? Bedford Modern Schoolprovides Holiday Activity Courses forall children betweenthe ages of 4 14 from Bedford andthe surrounding areas. Its a greatplace for kids to have fun, makelots of friends and learn new skillsand talents.

With over 50 exciting coursesto choose from the hardest part isdeciding which courses to take part

in. The 2014 courses include FashionDesign, Fun Science, Jewelleryand Silversmithing, Junior DragonsDen, Martial Arts, School of ModernMagic and Street Dance alongsidemany sports courses and the everpopular Survival Adventure Skills.

We aim to ensure that everychild has a fantastic time and the

Little FreeLibrary at the

Kiosk at the Park

COURSE DATES:

Easter: Mon 07 Thu 17 April

Summer: Mon 28 July - Fri 29

August

Join in the fun at BedfordModern School


7/40

Tried and tested by the mini Clanger crew, we canconrm that the Higgins Bedford holiday activities for

families are excellent. Weve made castles, designeda gigantic plesiosaurus, and created bejewelled swordsand shields, so well denitely be taking part in theirEaster sessions.

Heres whats going on this Spring:

Tuesday 8th Aprilhave a taste of what you can do withwatercolour painting in our Wet in wet, Sgrafto andResist activity.Wednesday 9thtake a closer look at trees identifying thedifferent types, learn to draw their shapes and matchthe wood that comes from them in our Trees forWood activity.

Friday 11thlearn more about Pulling Power and makeyour very own model tractor!Tuesday 15thmake cute felted friends at our WonderWool session.Wednesday 16thCome and help us bring TheHiggins foyer into bloom. Make paper daffodils andspring owers!

The Higgins Bedford is free to visit. Activities are 2.20 perparticipating child. Look out for more activities in Mayhalf-term and during the summer holiday.www.higginsbedford.org.uk

The Bedford Clangeris calling all comradesto join the revolution!At the beginning of 2014 we launched The BedfordClangers New Year Revolution and encouragedBedfordians to sign up to our manifesto pledging tosupport our town. We even have badges! While its notexactly legally binding, by signing up to our revolutionwe hope that youll make small changes in your life tosupport the town. Shop local, support indie retailers, usethe library, watch live music, support local theatre it allmakes a difference. If you havent yet joined, why notemail [email protected] with the subjectComrade Clanger and well add you to our mailing list.Well send you updates about forthcoming issues andblog posts and hope to be able to share special offerswith you too.

Revolutionary artwork designed by Kristina Bullen

#BedfordRevolution

If youve never explored the River Great Ouse by boat,then nows your chance. The John Bunyan CommunityBoat runs trips from Sovereigns Quay and Priory Marinafrom April onwards.

This yearsprogramme includesa range of chartersby the Bedford SwanHotel, starting onMothers Day on March

30thwith Champagnetables of four on boardthe boat for a twohour trip. On Easter SundayApril 20ththere willanother chance for a

7

APR-JUNE 2014

A Revolution? Sounds like fun! (Although if Im honest, Ill join anything where theres a badge...)

Easter Holiday fun atThe Higgins Bedford

table on a two hour sparkling cruise with lunch. Sunset Cruise on the Ousetrips will begin on FridayMay 9th with a chance to enjoy Champagne andcanaps for a romantic early evening followed bythe option of a full dinner in the Swans River Roomrestaurant. Weekend Afternoon Tea Tripswill begin on May 25th

an ideal outing for visitors. Bookings are made viawww.bedfordswanhotel.co.uk

The John Bunyan Boat won a Pride in Bedford award

for its contribution to raising the prole of the town. Ithas been sponsored by organisations like BedfordBIDand Bedford College, each with donations of 5,000.

Full details of the boat public trips from SovereignsQuay and Priory Marina which begin in April can befound on the website www.b-mkwaterway.og.uk

Swanning about on the river


8/40

THE BEDFORDCLANGER APR-JUNE 2014

8 The stuff in the art centre is pretty as a picture ;)

UNIQUE BEDFORD

gallery area. 'The gallery allows us to reachdifferent audiences,' says Maureen. 'Each

exhibition brings new customers into the shop.'Artists are also able to hire the gallery for their

own exhibitions. Alongside the artworks are

ceramics, crafts and jewellery by local makers.

The gallery show is refreshed on a monthly basisand gives wall space to local artists (including

as well as the big names in the art world. If youwant to plan your cultural year ahead, then the

Art Centre gallery is a great place to start.

The Art Centre: 7 Howard Street, Town Centre,Bedford, MK40 3HS

tel: 01234 344784

From the street, the award-winning window displays at theArt Centre never fail to lift ones spirits and reect the skill and

creativity of the staff members.

Alongside the comprehensive range of art materials, the Art

Centre sells cards and gifts, craft supplies, offers a professionalframing service and has a dedicated gallery. They also offer

monthly craft demonstrations from art to card-making tojewellery and this year the number of workshops will increase.

Manageress Maureen Cerri clearly enjoys her work: 'I'm

obssessed!' she jokes. 'All our staff have a love of art and have a

practical understanding of the creative process. We're all ableto offer knowledgeable advice to our customers - something that

you can't get with online shopping.'

The Art Centre & Gallery has a paper room something of ararity outside of London with a huge selection of art paper

including watercolour, handmade, chromalux card, sugar paperand iridescent sheets. At the rear of the store is the vibrant

If you've got a passion for art then there's really only

one place for you to head in Bedford. Established in

1932, The Art Centre & Gallery is among Bedford's

longest established independent retailers. Once

simply an art supplies shop, The Art Centre & Gallery

(on Howard Street since 1996) now comprises five

departments and has eleven members of staff - all with

a passion for the business.

The Art Centre

& Gallery Howard Street,Bedford

If you are a local maker,designer, artist or crafter and

would like your products tobe considered for The Art

Centre & Gallery, then contact

Maureen Cerri on01234 344784.

SpecialofferforClangerreaders:

FREEgiftwrapwit

hevery15spentongiftware.


9/40

APR-JUNE 2014

9


10/40

10

THE BEDFORDCLANGER

you keep it away from YOU as much as possible? Letsbe happy. That might sound twee but believe it or not

you are allowed to make decisions based soley on

whether or not what you are about to do is going tomake you feel expansive and relaxed and excited or

if what you are about to do is going to make you feelconstricted and tense and wishing you hadnt. We lead

by example. Sure, sacrices have to be made at timesand sometimes you make a decision based on what you

know now and that could change with the introduction

of new information to consider. So you make a newdecision. What I hope you get out of this editorial is to

introduce yourself to the concept of ahhhh and notughhhh. Go with happy. Youre allowed.

www.frogschorus.comwww.wonderfuelproductions.com

APR-JUNE 2014

Because Im Happy! Clap along if you know what happiness is to you!

HOMETOWN TOURIST

Recently we entered the mineeld of middle school

selection (Bedford is a three tier system of sorts,depending on your catchment, etc.). I didnt want

to have this conversation. It stressed me out. I didntwant to be stressed out. I wanted it to be simple,

easy, I wanted to follow my intuition and make adecision and be ok with it. And then not have the

conversation anymore. But for some folks it is a verysticky conversation because there is worry and logistics

and everyones opinion and so on. I narrowed it down to

one condition and Parrell Williams says it best Happy.(Catchy, isnt it?)

So, now (and here is what Im driving at here), at a time

when stress is everywhere and kids have their wholeadult life to be stressed and worried, lets keep that

away from them for as long as possible. Hey, why dont

Most of us are guilty of walking past Bedfords

monuments and statues without a second

glance. Do you know their meaning?

Renowned choreographer and photographer Mickael

Marso Riviere aims to challenge just that. He will bringBedfords statues to life using Breakin/Hip Hop danceand photography in collaboration with Bedford Creative

Arts.

Working with a local dance group and professionaldancer, as if in battle or physical debate with the

statues themselves, he will create moves that challenge

our perceptions and the political statements of these

monuments. These highly choreographed moves will

then be photographed, with the nal images beingdisplayed across the town.

Come along and see the work in progress by Bedfords

silver faces on Saturday 19th April, where Mickael and

the dancers will be working on their moves throughoutthe afternoon.From late April keep an eye out for the

photographs which will adorn public spaces inthe town.

Creation day Saturday 19th April, 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm. Photographic displays from late April, Bedford towncentre.

BCA presents:HIP HOP vs monuments!

Eenie Meenie Minie Happy.by Kristine Hughes


11/40

11

the towns timepiece in the days before watches. Orthe bull-shaped clock that stands out from the shopfronts

on the High Street. This was the original site of John Bulljewellers and the clock was the symbol of their store. At

11am each day a ball would drop on the reverse side ofthe clockface to signify GMT just like at the

Royal Observatory.

Fascinatingly, the years during the Second World War

saw many departments of the BBC relocate to Bedfordto avoid the bombings in London. The entirety of the

BBCs musicians, band-leaders and technical crewsarrived in Bedford and they established themselves in

various buildings around the town including The CornExchange. Other departments then followed including

drama and news. It is no exaggeration to say that

Bedford kept the BBC broadcasting during the waryears, explains Trevor.

If you would like to nd out more or to book a placeon any of the Guided Walks, please contact the TouristInformation Centre on 01234 718112 or email:[email protected].

Take time to look at our town with fresh eyes.

By being a tourist in your own town youll be

amazed at what is right on your doorstep

With a wealth of knowledge

and experience, what theBedford Tour Guides dont

know about our town isntworth knowing! Established

by the Borough Councilover 20 years ago, the Tour

Guides are your key to the

hidden history of Bedford.They run twice weekly tours

on a plethora of subjects

(see the Listings Guide forfurther information) andhave a passion for sharing

their stories. The Clanger met with Trevor Stewart to ndout some of the secrets of the town centre.

Our most popular walk is called I Never Knew That andBedfordians who join us for this tour are always amazed

at how much history of the town is unknown to them,explains Trevor. I wont give away the secret, but there

is something unusual about the statue of John Howardthat never fails to astound people! (I can vouch for

that! Ed)

When we start a walking tour of the town, we alwaysadvise people to look up above the shop-fronts. Inalmost all cases, thats where all the interesting details

can be found, says Trevor. For example, the clock onSt Pauls church was known as Gods clock in years gone

by as it could be seen for miles around. It was effectively

APR-JUNE 2014

Well I never knew that there were so many cool tours in Bedford!

Sunday 18 May I Never Knew ThatThings that you never knew about

Bedford.

Sunday 25 May WWII BedfordNow revealed the secrets ofBedford in World War II.

Sunday 1 June The Rise and Fall of Bedford CastleHear why the castle is no more!

Sunday 8 June The Jewel in the CrownA walk along Bedfords treasuredEmbankment.

Sunday 15 June I Never Knew ThatThings that you never knew about

Bedford.

Sunday 22 June Who Lived in a House Like This?The family stories behind some ofBedfords grandest properties.

Sunday 29 June The Silent Faces of BedfordEvery statue and memorial tells a

tale.

Guided Walks

Tourist Information

Centre celebratesThis year, the Tourist Information Centre (TIC)

celebrates ten years in its current location on St

Pauls Square.

Situated in the historic Old Town Hall building opposite StPauls Church, the TIC was opened by former hostage,

Terry Waite in 2004. Later this year, the TIC will againrelocate. Its new home will be in the newly refurbished

Bus Station providing visitors with invaluable information

about the area. They will of course continue to be a

fount of all knowledge on Bedford and its surroundingareas and will remain an outlet for discounted FirstCapital Connect rail tickets to London and Brighton and

tickets to local events.

Bedford Tourist Information Centre Old Town Hall, St PaulsSquare, Bedford MK40 1SJTel: 01234 718112 Email: [email protected]

GUIDED WALKS:


12/40


12

Bringing you the best of local theatre and musicals, new writing,

professional touring drama, poetry/spoken-word and theatre for families.

Theres sure to be something for everyone. Check out our listings on our website.

join our mailing list, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

@ThePlaceBedfordfacebook.com/[email protected]

Proudsponsors

ofTheBedford

ClangersAPhoto

ADayProject

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

A RATHER LOVELY LOCAL

EXCELLENT ALES * GOOD SELECTION OF WINES

HOME OF PIE ON A PLATE

Winner of North Beds CAMRA Town Pub of the Year 2014

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


13/40

Cat Lane Wedding PhotographyCat Lane Weddings captures everything from the

getting ready shots to the first dance. Have a look at thestunning pictures they capture here:

catlaneweddings.com

Samantha Roach Bridal Boutique, 4 Ram YardThis exquisite bridal boutique is just delightful! Each

of Samanthas dresses is handmade to the higheststandard, making you fabulously unique on your special

day! samroachbridal.com

Blossom Lingerie, 6 The ArcadeEveryone needs fantastic lingerie which looks and

feels great for their wedding! Blossom Lingerie havea beautiful selection of lingerie and provide a fitting

service. blossom-lingerie.com

BlueGlass Wine, 43 St Cuthberts StreetBlueGlass offers sale or return, free glass loan, free

local delivery and a tasting session so you can be sure

to select the perfect wine and fizz for your wedding.theblueglass.co.uk

We love a good wedding at Bedford Network!

Here are some of our top independent Bedford businesses which

are sure to make your wedding sparkle

Some extra recommendations:

Rings: Arabel Lebrusan arabellebrusan.com

Hair:Fletchers, 99 Tavistock Street, 01234 272575

Band: HireOurLiveBand.co.ukCakes: Pasticceria Amalfi, 27 Park Rd Westamalfipasticceria.co.uk

Bedford Network sharing the best of Bedford

and beyond! BedfordNetwork.co.uk

1

APR-JUNE 2014

A wedding?! Aisle be there! 13

1

2

3

4

2

3 4

Rings by Arabel Lebrusan

SHOPPING


14/40

University of Bedford

Theatre

Red Table Theatre presentsThe Just So Stories By Rudyard KiplingSunday 6 April - 11am and 2pmTickets: 8 (5 children and concessions)Age Guidance: 4+

In their highly acclaimed production of The JustSo Stories, Red Table Theatre brings four of RudyardKiplings best-beloved tales to vivid life. Find out why

the moon pulls the tides, why the camel has a hump,

why the whale no longer eats people and why theelephants nose is so long.

Circo Ridiculoso presentsThree Little PigsMonday 7 April - 2pmTickets: 8 (5 children and concessions)Age Guidance: 3+ (beware loud balloon pops!)

Danny Schlesinger has been delivered a

storytelling kit in a crate. All the props for the

story are contained within ... or are they? Dannywill recount the curly tale with lots of huff andpuff, blowing you away with his inimitable and

hilarious physical comedy, circus skills and sheerpig-headedness.

Lyngo Theatre presentsJack and the BeanstalkThursday 10 April - 11am and 2pmTickets: 8 (5 children and concessions)Age Guidance: 3+

Fee! Fi! Fo! Fum! Its a giant of a show,

wed love you to come! This classic fairy tale

now gets the Lyngo treatment, so expectlots of surprises and a gripping story, as Jack

sells his cow for ve magic beans and ndshimself in the land above the clouds.

To book tickets: call 01234 793197 or [email protected]


What do you call a camel without a hump? ...Humphrey.14

Bedford TheatreComedy Club 4 KidsSunday 13 April - 2.30pmTickets: 8 (6 concessions) Age Guidance: 6+

As it says, this is a Comedy Club aimed at kids.

Some of the best comedians from the UK andworld circuit will be doing what they do best

but without the rude bits!

Little Howards Big Show for KidsMonday 5 May - 1.30pm and 4pm

Tickets: 8 (6 concessions) Age Guidance: allWith interactive stand-up, live animation on

stage and lots of jokes and songs, this is really is

a show that all the family can enjoy. Multi-awardwinning Little Howard is the worlds only live

interactive animation and he has even had his ownTV show!

For more information and tickets: www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk or from Central Box Ofce 01234 718112

The Place

Old Saw Theatre Company presentsTomtenSaturday 12 April - 2pm and 5.30pmTickets: 8.50 (concessions 6) Age Guidance: 3+

When all is quiet on the farm, when everyone is asleepand the snow is on the ground Tomten wakes up. He

watches over everyone without them ever knowing,

though sometimes you can see his footsteps in the snow. Anew puppet show uses this gentle and poignant story as a

metaphor for life and death, in a way that is accessible foryoung children.

Hotbuckle Production present

David CoppereldSunday 20 April - 6pmTickets: 10 (concessions 8.50) Age guidance: 10+

This is a new play based on Dickenss well-loved tale.Young David Coppereld is thrown into an uncaring world

of poverty and hardship, following the marriage of his dotingmother to the ruthless and violent Murdstone.

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

THEATRE Theatre Treats for Kids!If youre looking for kids theatre this Spring, youre spoilt for choice in Bedford. With performances at

three different theatres, from puppets to classics, Paula Walker discovers theres something for everyone.


15/40

Othello: Moor of VeniceTuesday 29 April 7.30pmBedford Theatre

Tickets: 10 (concessions 8)Age guidance: 12+

A tempestuous journey from scandal and intrigue to lust and

vengeance can be experienced at Bedford Theatre on 29April. The highly acclaimed Icarus Theatre Collective presents a

bold and exciting new production of Shakespeares most tragic

tale Othello: Moor of Venice. The conflict between Othello andIago is one of the most chilling and emotionally deep conflicts in

literature, with its themes of temptation, jealousy, revenge andunconditional love, which touch us all.

Othellos world will be brought vividly to life as a live string quartet

and a stunning ensemble cast combine with some of literaturesmost vibrant language and characters. A dangerous tale of

ambition, jealousy and love will unfurl, as Shakespeares classic tale

of deception hurtles to its dramatic and poignant conclusion.

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

The Swan Theatre Company presents:Poetry @ the Eagle GalleryCastle Road20 April, 18 May, 15 June - 6.30pmTickets: 5

A real treat for poetry lovers is on offer over the next fewmonths, as the Swan Companys Sunday Poetry Evenings at

the Eagle Gallery continue to delight. Celebrate Easter andthe 450th Birthday of William Shakespeare with an evening of

poems, prose and drama written or inspired by the Bard of

Avon on 20 April.

Spend an evening Full of Passionate Intensity on 18 Mayto mark the 100th anniversary of the passing of the Irish

Home Rule Bill, which was then delayed by WW1, withpoetry, prose and drama from Irish writers around the

world.

The 50th anniversary of the prison sentence imposed on

Nelson Mandela on 15 June affords an opportunity todiscover how peaceful revolution has inspired writers

throughout history.

Hats off to Laurel and HardySaturday 26 April - 7.30pmThe Place TheatreTickets: 10 (concessions 8) Age guidance: 10+

An evening of laughter that will nally break yourheart is on offer from Hats off to Laurel and Hardy.

Lucky Dog Productions present a new play aboutthe most famous comedy duo of all time. Tracing

their professional careers through to their meteoricrise to lm fame and beyond, the play also offers

a look at their private lives. Besides recreations of

scenes from some of their lms, you can expectsome singing and questionable dancing!

Tickets and information about other productions:

www.theplacebedford.org.uk

APR-JUNE 2014

A Laurel and Hardy Show? Why Im speachless! 15

And something for the grown-ups too


16/40

APR-JUNE 2014

16 Im ready for some dancing in the street.

MUSIC

MarthaReevesInterviewIt was with barely concealed

excitement that the Clanger

interviewed Motown pioneer Martha

Reeves (of the Vandellas) in advance oftheir show in Bedford in April. Youll be

sure to know the girl groups hits which

include Jimmy Mack, Dancing in the

Streets, Heatwave and Nowhere to Run.

Lloyd Lugsden spoke to Martha inMotor City prior to the UK shows.As you can imagine, there is afair amount of supercool namedropping (from Martha) and anattempt to ask questions that she

maybe hasnt heard 20,000 timesbefore (from Lloyd):

Bedford Clanger:Anything you likeabout playing in England?Marther Reeves: The wonderful fans!Many, many great memories ofplaying here...

Do you prefer recording orperforming?

Ive been singing since the ageof 3, Im just happy to perform inany situation, so I have no real

preference...Any favourite people youveworked with?

Little Stevie Wonder, Mary Wells, TheTemptations, Smokey Robinson & theMiracles, The Supremes, Edwin Starr,Freda Payne...

Any one would still like to work with?Id be open to any collaboration -but would love to perform for theRoyal Family one day

I cant promise anything but am sure

itll happen one day... Do you havea favourite decade for music?

Well, Im in my fth decade of musicand enjoyed all the scenes thatwere around - my favourite time wasthe Hippy era...

What do you enjoy outside of music?Golf - Ive won some trophies forlongest tee off! Its great to beoutdoors, the menfolk a great helpon the green, made some goodfriendships out there.... Also, I likesewing, altering and customising

costumes. Plus visiting schools -conducting motivational talksand explaining that its hard workgetting into music, dedication, iswhat you need.

Any new acts that excite you?No, not a whole lot. Theres way toomuch profanity and the artists justarent distinguishable. Theres a lotof music about nowadays without

musicianship. All machines, protools (digital software) and voiceenhancers doing it for them. Musicneeds to be learned - I take singinglessons every year, as my voicechanges over the years, so I need todeal with how to use it.

How have you seen the

industry change?Well its changed a lot, like I said, withthe technology. Hitsville, where theMotown records were recorded wasopen 24 hours a day! People coming

in and out, recording including JamesJameson (a previously uncreditedsession bassist) and The Funk Brothers(Motowns superb session musicians)were always there. The competitionwas tough, with people like StevieWonder around! Thats one of thereasons for the high quality of theMotown sound. When I perform thesongs now, I get total recall, back tothe time when the song came out.

What did you think of the DavidBowie & Mick Jagger version of

Dancing in the Street?(recorded for Live Aid in 1985)

Well, I was very attered! I had oneregret that I wasnt in the videothough. That songs been covereddozens of times by The Who, TheGrateful Dead, Dusty Springeld &of course The Mamas & Papas. I wasin the NBC studio when that was outand some kids were asking MamaCass about the song, and she hadto tell them it was by Martha Reeves!

I see youre on Twitter, do you tweet

(or does a Vandella do it for you?!)No, I dont twitter myself (laughs)admin does that but I do Facebookmyself. Its a good way ofcommunicating with fans and friends.

We then went on to talk about theMotown Museum in Detroit, the

original Hitsville recording studiowhich Martha recommended I go

to - Id love to!

If youre in that neck of the woods,its at: 2648 West Grand Blvd,Detroit, MI 48208 USA or you

can virtually check it out at:www.motownmuseum.org/

Martha Reeves & the Vandellasplay our very own Bedford Corn

Exchange on Monday 7th April.www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk


17/40

APR-JUNE 2014

17Keep an eye on our blog www.thebedfordclanger.wordpress.comfor more interviews and music news.

Romance is in the air

Think romance is dead? Get in touch with your emotional side on Saturday 5April 2014 in a concert that includes some of the most romantic orchestral worksof all time: Dvorks Cello Concerto and Rachmaninovs Symphony No. 2.

Composed in the same year as his masterpiece, Symphony No. 9From the New World, Dvorks Cello Concerto was written at the endof Dvorks tenure in New York, and is lled with the spirit of his belovedBohemian homeland to which he longed to return. In the nale, Dvorkeven inserted a wistful slow section where the solo cello is joined by a soloviolin, resulting in a combination of high and low sonorities, imitative of anoperatic love duet.

Rachmaninovs passionate Symphony No. 2 was, to his great delight,received with reassuring success and re-established Rachmaninovs positionas one of Russias leading young composers. The Adagio features a long,

sustained melodic phrase played by solo clarinet, which unfolds slowlybut never repeats itself. From the soft and subdued main theme of the rstmovement to the brilliant fanfare of the nale, this symphony has beeninterpreted as the composers dramatic progress from turmoil to triumph.www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

Wolf Alice + Superfood

Returning to Esquires on Thursday15th May is of one of the heaviesttipped - and one of our favouritenew bands - WOLF ALICE. They are

joined by the similarly hotly tippedSUPERFOOD. Music journalists havedeclared that both groups are worthcatching in 2014, and for goodreason too.

Wolf Alice will be releasing theirlong anticipated debut album

around the time of this tour, having

already released EP Blush last year,with singles Bros and Fluffy. Datagathered by BBC6 Music found thatWolf Alice were the most bloggedabout band in the UK in 2013, andyou can see what the hype is all

about at Esquires in May if youmissed our last show with them inApril last year.

Support band SUPERFOODhail from Birmingham and havemore than their fair share ofBritpop sensibilities about them.

Championed by fellow BrummiesPeace and Swim Deep, 2014 is goingto be a huge year for these guys too.

Tickets are 8 in advance from

seetickets.com or from Luscious JuiceBar and Dannys Bar at Esquires.

Philharmonia Orchestra, the Resident Orchestra at the

Bedford Corn Exchange, returns to spread some love in

Bedford this April.

To discover ifthis is the gig foryou, ask yourselfthese three

simple questions:1) DO YOU LIKE PIZZA?2) DO YOU LIKE THE VELVET

UNDERGROUND?3) DO YOU LIKE LO-FI ANTI

FOLK BANDS FRONTED BY

MACAULAY CULKIN?

If the answer to all three isYES, then you my friend are inserious luck!

The Pad Presents are verypleased to announce thatthey are bringing The PizzaUnderground to Bedford aspart of their rst ever UK tour,and Bedford is one of theonly regional dates too.

It could have been afrivolous, ash in the pantribute to the late Lou Reed,but Macauly Culkins pizzabased Velvet Undergroundcomedy tribute act, Pizza

Underground, continue todeliver in 2014.The collective have formed

from the crusts of New Yorksanti-folk scene, its membersincluding the Home Aloneactor alongside Matt Colbourn,Phoebe Kreutz, Deenah Vollmerand Austin Kilham.

Rest assured, this gig willbe a talking point for manyyears to come!

Tickets are 10 and are

available from Seetickets.

com, wegottickets.com andin person from Luscious JuiceBar and Dannys Bar

at Esquires.


18/40

18


HOLIDAYACTIVITY COURSES

Easter: Monday 07 April to Thursday 17 April

With over 30 courses to choose from,BMS is the place to enjoy your holidays.

Our courses are open to allchildren aged 4 - 14

For your 2014 Holiday Activity Course brochure please contact us on: (01234) 332667 or go to bedmod.co.ukBedford Modern School, Manton Lane, Bedford, MK41 7NT

Bedford Modern School is part of The Harpur Trust

A unique, independent coffee shop onBedford High Street offering four types

of fantasticdirect trade coffees; a large

selection of loose leaf teas complimented

by beautiful continental cakes and freshly

prepared rolls, panini and toasted tea

cakes.

A relaxed environment, spacious seating,

music and free Wi Fi.

Art is built into the fabric of the building -

local artists work is also on display.

We open at 8am for all your takeaway

needs.

Opening times are 8am-6pm Monday to Saturday and

10am 5pm on Sunday.

We have disabled access and child changing facilities.

82 High Street, Bedford, MK40 1NN


19/40

PROST! Bedford Bamberg Spring Fest Returns

Its lucky number seven for the annual Bedford Bamberg Spring Fest whichthis year takes place on Friday 9th May 2014 and Saturday 10th May 2014,from 12 noon til midnight. Beer afcionados, fans of Germanys epicureandelights and anyone looking for a great event will see Bedfords Harpur Suitetransformed into an authentic Beer Hall complete with oompah band and ahuge selection of German Beers. Last year, over 4,000 pints were sold.

This years event boasts more than 40 different German beers, wineand schnapps on offer with 12 beers brewed inBamberg itself. The smokedbeer from Bamberg, Schlenkerla Rauchbier will again be available ontap this year. Tee-total? Then theres always the German barbecue, livemusic and atmosphere of a German beer hall to keep you entertained.Whats not to like??Entry is free. For more information visit www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

The 12th Annual Kite

Festival Returns to

Russell Park

The much anticipatedInternational Kite Festival returnsto Russell Park on Saturday 24th &Sunday 25th May. Each year, thisfree event attracts thousands of

visitors to Bedford and is a greatday out for all the family.

Beautiful kites from aroundthe world will be on display atthis years festival including kitesfrom America, Canada, Japan,China, Germany,France, Hollandand Belgium as well as yers fromacross the UK. The programmethroughout the weekend willfeature kites never seen before inthe U.K and childrens and adultsworkshops in the kite marquee.

A special arena for members

of the public to y their own ormade in the workshop kites willalso be onsite.

The fun will spill over into theBank Holiday Monday - with, theBattle of the Bands taking placein Russell Park on 26th May, from11am - 5pm. The prizes includea spot on the main arena musicstage at Bedford River Festival.

The Kite Festival is open onSaturday, from 10am - 6pm, and

on the Sunday, from 10am - 5pm.For more information on theseevents visitwww.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk/outdoorevents

The Big High Street Showcase Comes

to TownLast year saw Bedfords rst Big High StreetShowcase and what a day to remember it was.The sun shone, the crowds thronged the towncentre and a man from Michael R Peters dressedup as a giant oven. Hurrah!

This years event takes place on Saturday 14th June and once again theHigh Street will be closed to trafc to allow traders, performers, dancers,fairground rides and much more to bring the streets alive. In addition,High Street shops will be encouraged to bring their businesses out onto thepavements, so expect to see some of your favourite shopkeepers doingsomething a bit different!

More details can be found at the www.bedford.gov.uk website and well beblogging about it too www.thebedfordclanger.wordpress.com

Bedford River FestivalThe bi-annual River Festival returns this year andwe just cant wait. In 2012, more than 300,000visitors enjoyed the jewel in the crown that isBedfords beautiful River Great Ouse and thisyears event promises even more fun and freeactivities along the Embankment on Saturday19th and Sunday 20th July. There are loadsof ways you can take part in the festivities.Whether its being part of the Festival Parade,

competing in the Raft or Dragon Boat Races,vying it out during the Battle of the Bands nal,or simply packing a picnic and enjoying theentertainment, its a great opportunity for us tocelebrate our town.To get involved, email [email protected] you there!

Bedfringe is Back - and its Bitesize...4th 27th July will see our annual inux of topnotch comedians, performers and musiciansas Bedfringe returns for its 8th year. This year,Bedfringe is going back to basics, but expectthe compact and bijou Bitesize festival to still pack in the laughs withinternational and homegrown comedy talent. If youd like to perform, or ifyou have a space that could be a venue (pub, caf, shop, front gardenetc) then make sure you get in touch with the organisers and lets makeBitesize Bedfringe a blast. Check out www.bedfringe.com for the latestdetails, tickets and a full line up of performers.

19

APR-JUNE 2014

What a urry of fantastic family festivals!

FESTIVALS Its festival feverthis summer in Bedford, soheres our handy guide to whats on over thecoming months...

Whether its kites, beer, the

High Street, comedy or theRiver Great Ouse, theres

always something to celebrate

in Bedford!


20/40

20 A great british menu.

APR-JUNE 2014

FOOD & DRINK

If St Helena were an art gallery it would be Tate Britain. It wouldnt

be the big, brash Tate Modern or the traditional National, but

somewhere in-between. Like Tate Britain it is secluded, tuckedaway, off the beaten track, known to the art devotee rather than

the dilettante, waiting to be discovered. Like Tate Britain it managesto mix harmoniously the old master with the avant-garde: dark oak

panelling, desert wines seized from the Tsars cellars, a light andwhite and thoroughly modern conservatory, with nooks and roaring

res elsewhere.The chef, Steve Barringer, is part Gary Rhodes, part

contemporary curator; a baby-faced, spiky-haired chef snapping

his dishes with his iphone and posting them on twitter. His love offood has made him something of a custodian of British ingredients.

Hes clever, creative and keen to share his passion for cooking. Hesources his ingredients carefully, using local produce of the nestquality, always keeping to the season. He has his local game dealerin Woburn, he gets his sh and shellsh from a trusted supplier inDevon. In the kitchen the atmosphere is focused and attentive.

On the menu there are eight appetizers, eight main courses;enough choice to satisfy any gourmand, and with the quality

assured both in description and delivery. The soy glazed chicken,boned chicken wings with broccoli puree, charred broccoli,

peanuts and parmesan, gives you an indication of what there is

to savour. Steves approach is innovative, cooking broccoli in fourdifferent ways for the one dish, accentuating and twisting the taste

of something we take for granted. In this one appetizer he perfectlycombines different avours and textures. The chicken is surprisinglythick and meaty, its taste enhanced and akin almost to duck. AChinese inuence and a dish that gives you an indication of theartistry involved.

Dining at St Helenas isnt cheap, but if you enjoy eating out

then its certainly worth every penny. A two course lunch can betaken for 37.50, which includes home-made bread, appetizer,

coffee and petit fours.

A three-course lunch or dinner will set you back 45.My advice: forget the fancy bistro in Soho and the slow train back

to Bedford, and cycle over to Elstow.

High St, Elstow, MK42 9XPsthelenarestaurant.com / tel: 01234 344848

St Helena


21/40

Make mine a at white to go! 21

APR-JUNE 2014

Next stop, Coffee Central.

Pic:GrahamWatson

Meet the Chef:STEVE BARRINGER

Back in 2011, The Bedford Clanger wasfortunate to interview Bedfordshires very own

Steve Barringer on the eve of the nal of thatyears Masterchef: The Professionals. That

interview is still the most searched for article onour blog and since then Steve has gone from

strength to strength, cementing his culinary

reputation as head chef at St Helena for the last18 months.

As you can see from Stephen Bywatersfood review, Steve is the master of using

ingredients in as many different ways aspossible. I love getting as much variety out of

my ingredients as I can as it makes the meal

more exciting for the diner, he told us. I useonly seasonal vegetables and by being creative

I ensure theres no wastage.In the last year and a half, Steve and his

team have denitely made their mark on themenu at St Helena. Hes appealed to the

restaurants dedicated regulars as well asattracting a new clientele. When asked what

his signature dish is, Steves response indicates

why he is such an exciting chef and wontrest on his laurels: My foods always evolving.

I might bring back a favourite dish that weserved last year but Ill tweak, improve and

reimagine it so its ever-changing.The kitchen comprises a team of four,

including pastry chef Lucy who also happens tobe Steves anc. So where does he want tobe in ve years time? My aim is to eventuallyhave my own restaurant and Id love to bring aMichelin star to Bedfordshire. We fully believe

that if anyone can do it, Steve can.

If theres one thing were not short

of in Bedford, its coffee shops,and this year, our friends Sue and

Caroline at Bedford Network have

mapped out their followers faveson a handy map. The map, based

on the iconic London Undergrounddesign, was compiled after Caroline

asked Bedford Networks twitterfollowers to nominate their favourite

independent coffee shops in town.

The map was then put togetherusing peoples recommendations.

While its not a denitive list of allBedfords coffee shops (is there a

map big enough??), we think it is agreat start to mapping the highlights

of our town. Pubs next, ladies?...www.bedfordnetwork.co.uk


22/40

APR-JUNE 2014

22 Up, up and awayyyyyy...

KIDS STUFF

Kite clothing flying highThere are many reasons that

Beales in Bedford is a great

shop for children...

Not only do they have a great toy

selection on the top floor stuffed

with Playmobil, Lego, Barbies, games

and books a caf that serves

excellent lunchbox selections and a

great kids menu, but they now stock

Kite clothing.

Kite clothing is planet-friendly kitfor kids aged 0-11 years. Kite are all

about bright colours, soft fabrics, and

things that are fun to wear. AND, all

of the clothes are made from either

pure organic cotton, or recycled

plastic bottles.

You can find Kite clothing selection

next to the toys handily positioned by

the Lego table. It really is the ultimate

small-person hangout in town.

LetsGoFlyaKiteBedfordsInternationalKiteFestivalreturnstoRussellParkfortheMaybankholidayaweekendofincredibleflyingmachine

s

beingmanoeuvredaroundtheskiesofthepark,withkitedisplays,workshops,stalls

andrides. TheKitefestivalrunsforthreedays:the24th,25thand26thMay2014.Thelawofaveragesmeansthatatleastoneofthosedaysshouldbewindy


23/40

Why not try designing your own kite?

APR-JUNE 2014

23

Very exciting crafty news:The School of Craft will soonbe launching a new blog featuring everything sewing,fashion and textiles related for kids age 8 to teens.There will be detailed how-tos for project based sewingactivities, with a mix of hand and machine-based makes.Jo from the School of Craft says: Sewing is a wonderfullife-skill. If you can get kids hooked at a young age, they

can enjoy building up a great base of good knowledge,which means that as they get older they can be creatorsof fashion and not just consumers. Itll be lots of fun!Keep an eye on The Clanger blog for more news on TheSchool of Crafts plans.www.schoolofcraft.co.uk

Titchy Stitching

A gem of a little cafe breathing new lifeinto the community! Come and see us soon -youll be guaranteed a warm welcome every time.And if youre feeling adventurous, why not try aflavoure d latt e - we v e got loads to choose from !

www. kios kparkl if e.wor dpress .com Te l: O1 234 27 1877

We are open7 days a Week -come rain or shine!

(Bring this ad with you and well treat you to a free cake!)

Get animatedabout Mandy Jennings

Mandy is from Bedford, lives out in the lovelyShire with her family. Predominantly she is ananimator she enjoys illustrating and drawingtoo. She has worked as an animator forabout 15 years now, most recently workingas a freelancer on the Moshi monster movieand the new Jedward series!! For all youranimation needs dont hesitate to get intouch: [email protected]


24/40


24 You spin me right round, baby right round...

OUT & ABOUT

ASPECTS LEISURE PARKPROUD SPONSORS OF THE OUT & ABOUT PAGE

Yo Higton from Sustrans has

the inside line on some very

exciting news for Bedford:

Bedfords best kept secret is that it is

the home of womens cycle racing.

Each year the top female cyclists fromaround the UK come to Bedford to

take part in a three day race, classed

as one of the main events in thedomestic racing calendar.

So for those in the know, it was nosurprise that Bedford was selected

as the finish for the second stage of

the International Womens CycleTour in May. This is a real privilege for

Bedford and a great opportunity toshow the world how great our town is.

In fact the official website describesBedford as an idyllic setting with a

picturesque Embankment, a historic

charter market dating back to 1166

and some of the best parks and openspaces in the country.

The Womens Tour is the countrys first ever internationalstage race for women road cyclists and will bring the

worlds best riders to Bedford on Thursday 8th May. ThinkTour de France, in the UK, for women and youll get the

idea.

But you dont have to like wearing lycra, be a woman

or even ride a bike to enjoy the tour, were inviting everyBedfordian to come and support this event. There are

plenty of things happening on the day (Thursday 8thMay). Bedford Borough Councils Sports Development

team will invite schools to take part in a Wheels Festival,

Sustrans are organising a Cycle Market Place where youcan have your bike checked, find out about adult cycle

confident courses, make a free smoothie and speakto local cycle groups; and just before the international

racers arrive there will be a 25 circuit race from the HighStreet, to The Embankment and up Mill Street for the top

elite women riders from around the UK.

For details of the route, timing and further information goto Bedford Borough Councils website www.bedford.gov.uk/thewomenstour and follow @SustransBedford and @bedfordtweets on twitter or like Sustrans Bedford on

Facebook for up to date information.

Another way to get in on

the cycling action is to join

a spinning class at Fitness

First at Aspects.

Its a low-impact work-out on astationary bike, and you control theintensity of the workout. Great forbuilding endurance and then youcan start working on entering theWomens Tour next year

Spin classes at Fitness First are onmornings and afternoons every day.Call 0844 5712811 for more detailsabout how to join up!

The Best in the World coming

to Bedford


25/40

Nothing will come of nothing, said King Lear, but something awesome will denitely come from seeing this show. 25

APR-JUNE 2014

FILM

If you dont already know, Event

Cinema streams live performancesdirectly to cinemas from theatres

around the world. The National

Theatre, the Royal Opera House, theRoyal Shakespeare Company, theMet Opera (live from NYC) and the

Bolshoi Ballet (live from Russia) are

just some of the world class venuesthat you can virtually visit from the

comfort of your very own localcinema. Joy! This May, Cineworld

is playing host to the NationalTheatres production of King Lear

arguably Shakespeares greatesttragedy starring Simon Russell Beale

in the eponymous role and directed

by Sam (Skyfall, American Beauty)

Mendes. Unsurprisingly, this is lookingto be a sell-out, so why not enter ourcompetition to win tickets

Event Cinema -Bringing the South Bank

and beyond to Bedford

Film at The

Place Theatre

Here at the Clanger we dont

just embrace theatre at thecinema. We also love a bit of

cinema at the theatre. ThePlace Theatre on Bradgate

Road is aiming to develop links

with the BFI (British Film Institute)to bring a range of interesting

and diverse lms to Bedford.From documentaries to world

cinema, cult classics to theavant garde, Alex Levene,

arts co-ordinator at The Placeis rapidly raising the venues

prole as an alternative cinemalocation. In addition, Alex will

be bring his Cycle Cinema back

to an outdoor venue near youthis summer. We just cant wait!

You can keep up with

the latest screenings by

checking out their website

theplacebedford.org.uk.

COMPETITION!

Wehavetwopairso

ftickets

togiveawayfortheNTLive

screeningofKingLearon1

May.Toenter,simplyemail

[email protected]

withKingLearinthetitleand

theanswertothisquestion:

WhatareKingLearsthree

daughterscalled?

We know we keep going on

about it, but we flipping

LOVE the Event Cinema

programme at Cineworld.

Comment by Paul

Hutchinson, co-founding

director, Bedford Film

Festival @BedfordFilmFest

The theatre world has beendebating the relatively recent

introduction of National Theatreperformances being shown acrossthe country in cinemas. On one

side some say the National TheatreLive initiative must not become a

substitute for people visiting atheatre in person, suggesting that it

diverts funds away from grassrootstheatre. The other side however

says that while grassroots fundingdoes need to be addressed, it

is a separate issue and these

innovative live screenings actuallyencourage more people than ever

to consider theatre.

Were rmly in agreement withthe latter view. As cinemas evolve

and technology allows moreshows to be screened in this way

it will open up more variety to the

general public. Living in Bedfordits not always easy, and certainly

not cheap, to jump on a train toLondon to see some of the top

performing performances. Evenif youre prepared to wait for the

larger (and more commercial)

touring companies to come closerit can still set you back an average

of at least 20 a ticket and a tripto MK. If youre deliberating about

whether you should give theatrea go heading to our own local

Cineworld is certainly a much moreattractive option, and could well

spark a new found desire to see

more live theatre both at the bigcity theatres or at the fantastic

smaller local venues such as ThePlace and Bedford Theatre.


26/40

APR-JUNE 2014

26 Top of the crops!

GARDENING

Now a new garden in Biggleswade

has condensed this vision into apatch of land that will be bursting

full of crops and blooms this summer.Pass through the heavy oak doors

of the Jordans Mill visitor centre

and youll nd a newly-established

food and ower garden dreamtup by Chelsea gold medal-winningdesigners Julie Toll and Ian Kitson.

The site posed some gnarlyproblems. Despite the views over

elds, this was no rural idyll, but a

concrete-covered, contaminatedindustrial site: all the topsoil was

brought in, and in some placesthe soil is just 50cm deep. As

head gardener Svenja Burckhardtputs it,somebody has called

it the biggest roof garden inBiggleswade.

But Toll and Kitsons clever

design is based on an aerialphotograph of the area. It

overcomes the difculties of thesite to create a space thats both

educational and beautiful. This

The Mill Garden

Kathy Browns gardenThe Manor House garden at Stevington is denitely what youd call well-

established: in fact this year Kathy is celebrating 750 years of garden

history on the site, dating back to an agreement in 1264 which mentionsa vineyard, a dovecote and a garden. Kathy says: The site used to be

run by nuns who looked after the hospitium here (think guest house) forpilgrims coming to bathe their eyes in the waters of the Holy Well which still

runs beneath the rock on which the church is built. She plans to mark themilestone by planting an area with mediaeval plants grown for use in the

house and as medicines.The garden is open every Tuesday from 1-5pm from early May to the end

of September, and also on special Sundays all 1-5pm: May 18, June 15, July20, August 17 and September 21. For the third year Stevington will be create a

well dressing by the Holy Well at Stevington Church; see it from June 1 to 15.

Kathy Browns Garden, The Manor House, Church Road, Stevington,Bedford MK43 7QB kathybrownsgarden.com Entrance 4.50 Children free.

How would you sum up the legacy of our countys farminglandscape? A patchwork of fields and market gardens,

enclosed by hedges and criss-crossed by rivers and streams,

all pulsing with wildlife, from harvest mice in the wheat

field to poppies blooming on verges writes Jane Perrone.

mini-farm showcases how grain

crops such as rye, oats, barleywheat and spelt are grown,

echoing Jordans farming legacy,but its also a space for visitors to

explore or simply a place to relax.

The beds of vegetables, grains,

fruit trees, herbs and owers arebisected by a winding path thatechoes the sinuous shape of the

river Ivel, which embraces the site.The crops wont all be for show,

either - salads, fruit from the Laxtons

apple trees, herbs and othervegetables from the garden will

make their way into the JordansMill cafe kitchen. And 10% of the

garden has been devoted towildlife, with wild ower meadows,verges and native hedging,

reecting Jordans commitment tothe Conservation Grade farming

scheme, where wild plants areallowed to ourish in eld margins

and around crops to provide food

and homes for birds, insects andother creatures.

The garden was built last year,but it is only now as the crops reach

for the sky and the hedges andtrees burst into leaf that it begins to

show its true potential. Headgardener Svenja is hoping to recruit

volunteers to help maintain the

garden: if youre interested,contact her via the Jordans Mill

websitejordansmill.com

On Friday June 20 from 6-9pm the garden will be open for an evening

of music, wine and roses as part of the National Gardens Scheme. The

Eagle Choir, made up of parents and staff of Bedford School, will be

singing Music through the Ages.


27/40

That Easter Extravaganza sounds Egg-cellent 27

Since December, we have been theunlikely shopkeepers of 68 HighStreet the former Pizza Hut buildingin Bedford town centre. It is a jaw-

droppingly spectacular three storeybuilding at the end of the Victorian

Arcade retaining many of its original features.

Everyone who has walked through the door has

left inspired and also amazed that such a beautifulbuilding has been over-looked for so long. Dan Th

ompson of the Empty Shops Network knows a thingor two about slack space and declared it was the best

empty shop hed ever seen!

Empty for over six years, the unit had become asad reflection of the state of High Streets across the

country. Thanks to a grant from the Portas Pilot Town

Team and support from the Borough Council, BedPop- an initiative for local makers, designers, illustrators,

artists and crafters to sell their work in retail space

- was able to transform the vast unit into a socialselling retail space, art & photography gallery for the

Christmas period.

Following the success of the BedPop Boutique, wehave continued our collaboration with the landlord.

Our aim was to demonstrate the versatility of an empty

space and to challenge the perception of a traditionalshop.

For over three years, Bedford has been making

imaginative use of empty spaces through We AreBedford, BCA and BedPop (among others). It makes

a difference to our town centre, it makes a differenceto our attitude towards empty shops and it makes a

difference to landlords. And thats got to be a good

thing. Because wed love it if there were no moreempty shops in Bedford.

APR-JUNE 2014

BEDPOP

Monday 28th April Sunday 4th MayMr X Stitch

CuratesMr X Stitch is at the vanguard of embroidery and sewingand is dedicated to sharing contemporary techniques

and showcasing exciting stitchers. During his week-longresidency at BedPop he will curate an exhibition of

stitched work, as well as running workshops and talks. He

will be collaborating with local groups too. For furtherinformation www.mrxstitch.comor @bedpop @MrXStitch

Saturday 3rd MaySchool of Craft Fabric SaleAs part of Mr X

Stitchs residency,Jo Flannery will be

running her School ofCraft Fabric Sale. A

must for stitchers andcrafters, Jos selection

of fabrics is hand-

selected and notavailable elsewhere

locally. Fabric willbe available by the

metre and as packs offat quarters.

So, when is an empty shop not an

empty shop? Heres whats popping

up at BedPop this Spring

Saturday 28th March & Saturday 5th April watchthis space!

Saturday 12th AprilEggsplore Bedford!

Bring your family down to the BedPop shop to start ourtreasure hunt. Pick up your first clue and find all the

Easter eggs hidden at landmarks around the town.Prizes will be awarded for completed treasure hunts and

for the fastest times. Creativity will be provided by thefabulous Circus of Illustration who will be running Easter-

themed craft activities in the shop. Cost is 3/person and

includes prizes for each competitor. The fastest teamround the course will win a giant egg. Its no yolk! For

further information join the Eggsplore Bedford Facebookgroup facebook.com/eggsplorebedford or follow@eggsplorebford

Saturday 19th Aprilwatch this space!

Wednesday 23rd Saturday 26th April

Pop Up Vegetables & Preserves Shop 10am 4pmA St Georges Day invasion

of the High Street will takeplace on 23 April when

Mark & Val Howson fromGarden Friends and Sue

Lang of The Beesness joinforces to present a unique

pop up shop in the BedPop

space.The shop will sell locally sourced vegetables and

customers will be able to find out more about GardenFriends veg box scheme. There will also be locally

made jams, honey and other preserves made by Sue.The two businesses are using the BedPop space to trial a

town centre retail concept. If it is successful, they will beseeking permanent premises near the High Street.

When is an empty shop not an empty shop?

Contact Chrissie on 01525 290783or 07774 205235,

Ken on 07957 122496, or email [email protected]

www.simplyforward.org.uk

LIFE TOO QUIET?Live alone? Weekends and evenings too quiet? Why not try

Simply Forward, a local friendship group for singles, divorced,

separated or widowed men and women who live in Bedford

or Milton Keynes.

We meet regularly in Husborne Crawley near Woburn and

organise a monthly programme of social events:cinema

trips, quizzes, walks, bike rides, weekends away, meals out.

Most members are aged between 50 and 65 but all are

welcome. The underlying ethos of the club is one of

friendship and support.


28/40


Do you like Dinosaurs? So do the Higgins... (just sayin)28

CultureThe Bedford Clangers Culture section is

curated by Paula Walker @pauliwauli2

Bedford Arts andCrafts Centre

Bedford Arts and Crafts Centrein Ampthill Road in the heart of thetown, is a not for prot communityinterest company, offering a widevariety of arts and crafts in the day,evening and weekends. Coursesinclude Stained Glass, Ceramics,Floristry and Dressmaking for thefull range, check the website. There

really is something for everyone!Parking permits are supplied for theirdedicated car park.

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

TheHiggins

The recently redevelopedHiggins Museum in Castle Lane offerswatercolour, print and decorativeart collections of internationalsignicance, including majorcollections of works by WilliamBurges and Edward Bawden.Local collections tell the story ofBedford and its people through

archaeological nds, natural history,geology and social history.

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

Bromham Mill

This restored watermill, datingfrom the 18th or early 19th century,is situated in seven acres of watermeadows. The Mill is host to a varietyof events, including its famousApple day in October and alsoincorporates an Art Gallery, withregularly changing exhibitions.Bromham Mill Nature Club for

children meets once a monthbetween April and October.

Opening times: Sundays and bankholidays 1-5pm from Easter until theend of October.Website:www.friendsofbromhammill.org.uk

The Glenn MillerMuseum

The museum, dedicated tothe legendary musician andbandleader, is situated in the formercontrol tower at Twinwood Aireld,home to the famous TwinwoodFestival. Glenn Miller was based innearby Milton Ernest during WorldWar Two, performing in the BedfordCorn Exchange and at Twinwoods.

He ew from the aireld to his deathin December 1944. An AviationMuseum is also on the site.

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

The Eagle GalleryThe Eagle Gallery in Castle Road is an artist-led gallery, run by a

cooperative of 45 Bedfordshire artists. Work displayed is wide-ranging,including ceramics, glass, oil painting, watercolour and printmaking. Thegallery is also a venue for lectures, demonstrations and workshops, open tothe local community.

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


29/40

APR-JUNE 2014

I was really disapointed when I went to pilates and was the only one with a sword and parrot... 29

BedfordCreative Arts

Bedford Creative Arts

is a contemporary arts

organisation and charitythat has worked within

the town for over

25 years.

We support andcommission artists tomake innovative newartwork that is ignitedby place and fueled bythe contributions of thepeople that take part.

Recent commissions haveseen us work with peoplein the town to lace thefront of 1 St Pauls Square,create and perform anew eight movementchoral work for choir andorchestra, make musicinspired by how bats see,and bake and decoratea cake in celebration ofBedfordshires afternoon

tea traditions.We also deliver a

programme of eventsto support and developlocal creative talent,including monthly CreativeBedfordshire networkingmeetings, an artistdevelopment programmeand mini commissions where we offer you500 to realise a great

creative project.

For more information

www.bedfordcreativearts.org.uk

The BunyanMuseum

The museum tells the story ofJohn Bunyan, one of Bedfordsmost remarkable sons, in a seriesof tableaux, room sets and

reconstructions. These, togetherwith clear displays and informationpanels, make this museum anattractive, informative andaccessible museum for visitors ofany age. A graphic presentationof Bunyans most famous work ThePilgrims Progress brings this famousstory alive.

Opening times: Tuesday Saturday11am-4pm from 19 February to 2November, although private tourscan be arranged while the museumis closed. Website:www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk

The Panacea

MuseumThe museum, situated in

Newnham Road, tells the story ofthe Panacea Society, a remarkablereligious community that existed inBedford for almost a century. It ishoused in several buildings: the mainone explains the origins and beliefsof the society; the family home ofMabel Barltrop, the founder of theSociety can be visited at 12 AlbanyRoad; the Chapel and the WirelessRoom, where members could listento the radio and play games, canalso be visited.

Opening times: Every Thursday11.30 - 3.00 and the rst Saturday inthe month 10.30-4.00 from March tillOctober inclusive.To arrange a private visit for a groupof eight or more people please call01234 353178 or [email protected] admission.

Website: www.panaceatrust.org

The Choral Society

Bedford Choral Society, whichwas formed in 1867, is one of theoldest in the United Kingdom. Itperforms three or four times eachyear, usually at the Bedford CornExchange and has approximately130 full-time singers. Performancesinclude classical choral works fromthe 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, aswell as commissioned works. Newmembers are welcome and contactdetails can be found on the website.

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

The RetirementCentre

The Retirement Centre in RothsayGardens in The Castle Quarter offersa diverse range of educational,social and recreational opportunitiesto anyone aged 50 or over, who isnot in full-time employment. Thereare also some courses available toanyone over 18. A wide range ofactivities, from Watercolour Paintingto Pilates, is on offer, as well as socialevents and visits. Full information,including a course brochure, can befound on the website.

Opening times: 10-4 in term time,plus 4.30-6.30 Tuesdays and

Thursdays for twilight courses. Othertimes are on the website.Website: www.recbedford.co.uk

Octavia, leader of the Panacea Society


30/40

THE BEDFORDCLANGER WINTER 2013

10 Start to look hot for the summer!20

Travel and Parking

Now Open


31/40

APR-JUNE 2014

For furtherinformation,including prices

and a location map

of all Council car parks,please visit:

www.bedford.gov.uk/parking

We are: Introducing the Mayors FreeParking Deal: Offering 2 hours

free parking every Saturday in

town centre car parks.

Building a new bus stationfor Bedford as part of an 8.8million regeneration scheme

for the bus station area This includes, refurbishing

the bus station multi-storey

car park, with brand newpublic toilets and a brand new

surface car park Construction of another new

surface car park on PrebendStreet

Freezing car park chargesfor three years in a row

Investing in bus services somany now run until 11pm aswell as expanding the Sunday

timetable

31Vrooom Vrooom!

Bedford town centre is situated on the

banks of the River Great Ouse and

has been home to a market since King

Henry II granted a charter here in

1166.

The town centre boasts a picturesque

Embankment, a unique mix of

independent and national retailers

alongside markets taking place fourdays a week; all served by excellent

transport links.

Car park charges have been frozen

for three years in a row at town centre

Council-run car parks, bucking the

national trend in order to support

shoppers and businesses.

Bedford is also investing more to

make it easier and more attractive forresidents and visitors to experience

the town.

Parking in Bedford town centreis simple and affordable.

Parking is free for the rsttwo hours of your stay every

Saturday in all town centre

council-owned car parks.

Parking is also free in surfacecar parks and on-street

parking bays on Sundays andBank Holidays with special

discounted rates available inmulti-storey car parks.

We also offer residents andvisitors the ability to pay for

their parking using their mobilephone ideal if you nd

yourself without spare change!

We take the safety and

cleanliness of our car parksvery seriously and many have

been awarded the nationallyrecognised Park Mark. This is

recognition that a car park hasbeen approved by the Police

and measures are in place toensure the safety of visitors and

their vehicles.

Getting toBedford

By bus: A Park

& Ride serviceoperates from the

junction of the A6and A421 at Elstow,

providing regular services toBedford town centre. Many

urban services run until 11pm

and the Sunday timetable hasbeen expanded to provide

more options to travel. Ruralservices have been protected

to ensure residents fromvillages can travel into the

town centre.

Bedford is also centrally

located on the X5Stagecoach route, linking

Oxford and Cambridge.

Timetables of all buses whichserve Bedford Borough are

available on the Council

website: www.bedford.gov.uk/businfo

By car:Bedford

is conveniently

located betweenthe A1 and M1and is well served

by the A421 dual carriagewaywhich links the two major roads

as well as the A6 and A428.

By train:Bedford

is served by threetrain services. The

Midland Mainlinemeans St Pancras

International in centralLondon is just 40 minutes

away. While the Thameslink

line, which runs from Bedfordto Brighton is undergoing a

multi-billion pound upgradeto increase the number of

seats and services available.Finally, the Marston Vale line

operates between Bedford

and Bletchley, serving 12stations in Bedfordshire and

Buckinghamshire.

Bedfords Tourist Information

Centre (St Pauls Square, MK401SJ) offers discounted andgroup travel tickets.

Full timetables are available atwww.nationalrail.co.uk/

Bedford benefits from excellent

transport links and is easy to reach

by car or public transport.

PARKINGHow to get here

and where to park

2

HOURSFREE

PARKINGEVERY

SATURDAY!


32/40

32


THE LISTINGS

RegaR eveMdaWkly

Silver Surfers2-4pm at Kempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

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

The Bear Free Pool Night7.45pm at The Bear, High St, Bedford.Tel: 01234 401020

Open Mic NightAcoustic open mic evening from 8pm atThe Devonshire Arms, 32 Dudley Street, Bedford.Tel: 01234 359329www.devonshirearmsbedford.co.uk

Jazz EveningWith a featured artist and band from 8.30pm atThe Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford.Tel: 01234 214656www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

Tonys General Knowledge QuizThe Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234354494 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, BedfordTel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Yoga & MeditationClass providing a haven of relaxation and quietcontemplation through posture work and acarefully guided meditation and relaxation. Smallfriendly welcoming group with qualied teacherin central Bedford. One-to-one sessions available

on request. Concessions for unemployed/ lowwaged/ students. Please wear loose ttingclothing and bring with you: Yoga mat ( if youhave one) blanket and cushion for relaxation/meditation. Tel Racheall: [email protected]: Bedford Athletic Stadium 6.15-7.30pmWednesdays: Putnoe Heights Church 6.15-7.45pm

MonthlyChatterbooks Reading GroupEvery 1st Monday, 4.30-5.30pm atKempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Teen Reading GroupEvery 3rd Monday, 4.30-5.30pm atKempston Library. Tel: 01234 276453www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Big Band Xtra Jam NiteEvery last Monday, hosted by local singer/songwriter Mat Roberts, 7.30pm til late. Justlisten or join in! The White Horse, NewnhamAvenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

edaWkly

Morning Walks at the RSPBTuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Comeand admire the wildlife and enjoy the site.Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free forRSPB members, otherwise 3. RSPB, The Lodge,Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge

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

Rhyme Time11-11.30am at Kempston Library, term time only.Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

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

Games Club

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

Homework Centre3.30-5.30pm at Kempston Library, term time only.Tel: 01234 276453 www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Ukulele ClubEvery other Tuesday, learn or develop your skillswith the easiest and most fun instrument topick up at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Road,Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

The Bear Free Pool Night7.45pm at The Bear, High St, Bedford.Tel: 01234 401020

Kings Arms Free Pool NightThe Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk

Esquires UnpluggedWeekly acoustic night at Esquires,Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120www.bedfordesquires.com

The Old Geezer BandEvery Tuesday from 8.30pm atThe Wellington Arms, Wellington Street, Bedford.Tel: 01234 308033

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

WededaWkly

Coffee MorningDrop in for coffee between 10 and 1 at WoottonLibrary, term time only. Tel: 01234 766061

www.bedford.gov.uk/librariesLunch at 25 RestaurantA classy two or three course meal, prepared byrst year students at Bedford College trainingrestaurant every Wed & Fri. 5th oor, BedfordCollege, Cauldwell Street, Bedford.Tel: 01234 291719 www.bedford.ac.uk/25

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

Dinner at 25 RestaurantDinner prepared by rst year students at BedfordCollege training restaurant at 7pm every Wed &Thu, term-time only. 5th oor, Bedford College,Cauldwell Street, Bedford.

The Bedford Clanger April - June 2014

Documents

Transcript of The Bedford Clanger April - June 2014