THE BEDFORD

CLANGER

FEBRUARY 2016

Illustration by Todd Robinson

POCKET DREAM
tuesday 23 february
3.00pm & 7.00pm
Ticket price
10
(8 concessions)

Age suitability
All ages
Running time
60 mins

Propeller presents a sixty minute

version of its award-winning
production of A Midsummer Nights
Dream, especially devised for young
audiences and known as Pocket
Dream. The ensemble creates a
relaxed and engaging atmosphere
in which to enjoy the performance,
as well encouraging the young
audience to give an open and
uninhibited response afterwards.

The Quarry Theatre at St Lukes is part of Bedford School, which is part of The Harpur Trust

Box office
01234 362337
quarrytheatre.org.uk

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

LETTER FROM
THE EDITOR
Were barely a
month in and
already 2016 is
shaping up to be
a vintage year in
Bedford. With the
850th anniversary
of the towns
charter, the 450th
anniversary of the
Harpur Trust, the River Festival, Bedford Park
Proms, Twinwoods, Fun Palaces and lots more,
Bedford is definitely the place to be.
How are you planning to celebrate Valentines
this month? Whether youre a full-on romantic,
would rather hang out with your friends or if youre
a bit meh about the whole thing (like our cover
design by Todd Robinson), theres plenty going on.
For the third year running were celebrating
our New Year Revolution and weve got some
top tips for how to get involved in our manifesto.
Shop local, visit the library, love live music, be a
hometown tourist and visit the theatre its what
were all about. Have a great month, Bedford!
Erica, Julia & Team Clanger

TH E
C L A NG E R

NEWS IN BRIE

On Friday 26th February, Viking Self Storage

will host the 2016 SleepEasy, an event where
people experience homelessness by sleeping
rough. The fundraising initiative will raise
awareness of homelessness in collaboration with
YMCA Bedfordshire. Hundreds of people across
the UK will be sleeping rough for a night from
7pm to 7am.
The national bi-annual event has raised almost
one million pounds for local YMCAs since it began
in 2010. The vital funds have directly supported
Bedfordshire community projects, helping numerous
vulnerable young people over the years.
Paul Kellett, marketing & fundraising Officer
of YMCA Bedford said: Taking part in the event
shows your support for those more vulnerable.
Sleeping rough so others dont have to. It will
help people experience what it is like to be homeless
and raise vital funds. Come alone and make friends
or bring a group.

Were looking to raise 25,000 and

with 250 spaces available, each person
will only need to raise 100 each.

After the success of last years conference, Creative Bedfordshire returns to

the University of Bedfordshire for another day of practical peer-led business
support and networking. On the 4th March the Creative Bedfordshire
Conference will again bring together over 60 people to network and
develop their businesses. Booking is essential. Sole traders, freelancers and
imaginative independent businesses of all kinds are welcome to attend.
The focus of this years conference is Growth, said Sandra Dartnell of
Bedford Creative Arts, responsible for the delivery of Creative Bedfordshire. This
year, these questions will be catered for by a panel discussion. The panel members
include the founders of two exciting creative businesses already thriving in
Bedfordshire: Arabel Lebrusan, Bespoke and Limited Edition Jewels; Nila Holden
Artisan Cakes and Cookies; as well as Aruna Bhagwan, Velocity Business Adviser
North Bedfordshire.
Arabel and Nila will be telling us about their business motivations, and the
practical skills that put them in business and keep them in business. Aruna will
add to the discussion with business advice on the support for growth, including
professional development and funding, available in our region.
So who is the conference for? Do you have to be in business and do you have
to be a creative? There is room at this conference for imaginative people at all
stages of business development from initial as-yet-unspoken ideas, to freelancer to

Enjoy three delicious courses

with a glass of champagne
cocktail for 24.95 between
Friday 12th and 14th Sunday.

Start with tender lamb coconut fry, then move on to

Kerelan Speciality Fish Curry or opt for home style
Nadan Chicken curry. Finish with traditional Indain
dessert Gulab Jamun.
Thursday to Sunday: 12noon to 3pm and 6pm to 11pm
Monday & Wednesday: 6pm to 11pm

Charlie Schneider, sales & marketing manager of

Viking Self Storage added: We first got involved
at the last in event in 2014 by offering cardboard to
those taking part. Its a worthy cause, and not only are
we happy about being part of the event, but looking

forward to hosting it outside our facility in Bedford.

There are three options available for those
wanting to take part: Classic, Extreme or Sofa
Surfers and more information can be found at
ymcabedfordshire.org.uk.

THIS CLANGER WAS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
Editor: Erica Roffe @bedfordclanger
thebedfordclanger@gmail.com
Graphics: Adam Boreham www.reactionvm.co.uk
adam@reactionvm.co.uk
Advertising: Julia Crofts @ClangerAds
bedfordclangerads@gmail.com

Cat Lane Photographer for Bedford Creative Arts, Sandra Dartnell at

Creative Bedfordshire Creative Networking Dec 2015 at The Quarry Theatre

Cover illustration: Todd Robinson illustra-tr.co.uk

Great Bedfordian contributor: David Fowler
bedfordtourguides.org

small business entrepreneur. Our creative network is open, informal and friendly.
Our people are active and ambitious. They want to know how to protect their
ideas, their relationships and also how be on-top-of the basics of good business.
Guest speakers Addison Accounts, Stanmore IP, Bedford Creative Arts, Keeping
It Social and Pavilion at the Park all businesses from within the network - will
cover introductions to key business topics across Finance, Intellectual Property and
Pricing, as well as Briefing Social Media, Pitching a Business Collaboration.
Grow Your Creative Business - Creative Bedfordshire Conference takes place
on Friday 4 March 2016 at Gateway, University of Bedfordshire, Polhill
Avenue, Bedford between 9.30am - 3pm. Booking is essential. Tickets are
20 due to the generosity of our funders and the venue. A packed lunch is
included. Full event details are available on the booking website cbconf2016.
eventbrite.co.uk. Special requirements and questions - please contact
sandrad@bedfordcreativearts.org.uk / #CBConf2016 on Twitter.

Musos: Lloyd Lugsden @lloydlug

Foodie: Stephen Bywater @authorbywater
Film Buff: Paul Hutchinson
@Hutch_PR bedfordfilmfestival.org
Gardening guru: Jane Perrone
@janeperrone perrone.blogs.com
Columnists: Neil Frankel @riversidebeds
riversidetennisbedford.co.uk.
Kristine Wilkinson-Hughes

Creative Bedfordshire is a network of creative people and businesses in

Bedfordshire. It is funded by the economic development teams at Central
Bedfordshire Council and Bedford Borough Council and is run by Bedford
Creative Arts. creativebedfordshire.com

The Cochin

SLEEPEASY HOMELESSNESS
CHALLENGE FOR BEDFORDSHIRE YMCA

THE GROW
YOUR CREATIVE
BUSINESS
CONFERENCE

Opening Times

FEBRUARY 2016

The Last Word: Reverend Sharon Grenham-Thompson

@glamvicar
Challenge Chris: Chris Demott
chrisdemottphotography.com

At The Cochin we specialise in South Indian cuisine from Kerala

and our food is unique, full of tradition, flavour and spices.

Closed Tuesday

Vegetarian, Vegan & Gluten

Free Options Available
Free Home Delivery
Within a 5 mile radius
15% Discount on collection

76 Tavistock Street, Bedford MK40 2RP

01234 364038 / 01234 328388

Add a little
sparkle with a
bottle of Bernard
Remy Champagne
for the special
price of 30

contact@thecochinbedford.com
www.thecochinbedford.com

LETS ALL GET INVOLVED WITH SLEEPEASY!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

PANOUI

FEBRUARY 2016

TH E
C L A NG E R

UNIQUE BE

DFORD

44 MILL STREET BEDFORD MK40

3HD EPANOUI.CO.UK
panoui opened its doors in October last year and has
brought style and sophistication to the previously neglected
corner of Mill Street. Owner Hannah loves her location
and says: I knew that I didnt want to be on the High
Street as I didnt want to get lost among all the bigger
brands. The area that were in has a lovely indie vibe and
between Lingers, the fishmongers, Pensieri, the Higgins
and Rogans Books we seem to share similar customers. So
many people pop in after theyve picked up some fish or
sausages for their dinner!
Hannah studied fashion marketing and then completed a
jewellery design course at Central St Martins. For the last
three years shes been creating her beautiful jewellery from
a studio in her house, but always knew that she wanted
to establish a shop/studio to sell and showcase her work.
Alongside my own jewellery we sell artisan gifts made by
British artists or sourced from fairtrade overseas makers, said
Hannah. Through the trade shows that I exhibit at Ive met
the suppliers whose products I now sell. I also sell my stuff in
their shops too!
panouis product range is eclectic, unique and has proved
to be an instant hit with customers. Its lovely to see people
spending their money in Bedford and not just in my shop.
The town is definitely on the up and is realising its potential.
With Valentines Day this month, panoui is the perfect
place to seek some romantic gift inspiration. Hannahs
signature handcrafted necklaces are priced from 75, bracelets
from 50 and in time for Mothers Day shes launching
personalised bangles with secret engravings. We may have to
set up a wish list!

Photos: Faith Dwight

faithdwightphotography.com

HOMETOWN TOURIST:
THE RIVERSIDE BANDSTAND

By David Fowler, Bedford Tour Guides bedfordtourguides.org

There were great celebrations on Saturday 10th April 1926 as several thousand Bedfordians watched the opening by the Mayor of the
new Bandstand at St Marys Gardens (on the riverside by Bedford College today) in warm sunny weather, but many were most unhappy
with the event. As a part of their policy to encourage outdoor amusements and recreation, Bedford Town Council had felt that provision
should be made for a bandstand on the newly laid out gardens. It was supplied and installed by David Rowell Ltd of Westminster,
builders of bridges and steel framed buildings.
The first problem was that the Council totally ignored Bedfords Bands (the Trades Silver Band, the Military Band and the Town
Silver Band), proposing that the opening concert should be given entirely by the prizewinning National Champions, the Luton Red
Cross Band. This was not well received and a protest march and meeting was held on the previous Thursday evening, when the three
Bedford bands paraded from the Midland Station to St Pauls Square, watched by four or five thousand people. Bedfords Bands had
been kept entirely in the dark as were also several members of the Council and the public at large until they saw posters announcing
the opening. A resolution was passed at the meeting condemning the Councils actions.
The second problem became apparent once the Luton Band began their concert, playing beautifully, but both the tone and the
general effect were impaired by bad acoustics. The adjacent buildings and those across the River produced a most disconcerting echo.
The sound came back and hit the ear with quite unpleasant effect, something which had not been appreciated by the Council.
Over the years the bandstand became a bit of a white elephant, with performers reluctant to play there. In 1940 the Government
were keen to encourage Holidays at Home, offering funds to increase and improve recreational facilities, so the Town Council took
advantage of this to remedy their earlier mistake by moving the little used bandstand from St Marys Gardens to Mill Meadows where
there were no acoustic problems and it remains today!

MONDAY NIGHT IS QUIZ NIGHT AT

Alternating between Steves Brain Taxer or

The all new, exciting Smartphone quiz!

Only 2 per person. Starts 8pm.

Will you win the cash or the wooden spoon?!
GRAB
SOME FRIENDS
AND GET
A TEAM
TOGETHER!

TO FIND OUT MORE

Check out Facebook for full details

Facebook.com/theburnabyarmsbedford

66 Stanley Street | Bedford | Beds | MK41 7RU | 01234 330056

Photo: Darren Lee Marsh

BRING ON THE BAND!

Real ales pies & toasties bar games music courtyard garden

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

FEBRUARY 2016

TH
CL A N E
GE R

S HOP

L OC A

IN JANUARY 2014 WE LAUNCHED OUR NEW YEARS REVOLUTION:

A MANIFESTO TO SUPPORT BEDFORD AND THIS YEAR IT IS AS
RELEVANT AND IMPORTANT AS EVER.

Towns change and businesses come and go thats

only natural but by economically and culturally
supporting the town we can make sure that Bedford
thrives and grows in the coming years. Our indie
retailers offer unique products and amazing
customer service not something youll get on a
website. Esquires is under new management and
Bedfords promoters continue to bring cuttingedge, world class acts to the town. The Quarry,
Bedfringe, The Place, UoB and open-air theatre is
thriving and the Higgins current Turner exhibition
has drawn visitors from all over the UK. There is
so much to celebrate in Bedford and we urge you
to join our New Year Revolution and make it your
mission to follow our manifesto. Here are a few
ideas to get you going:

1) SHAPING LIBRARIES
FOR THE FUTURE

Our libraries are hubs of activity: from Fun Palaces to Lego clubs, knitting
groups to poetry take-overs, there is always something exciting and
innovative going on in them alongside the brilliant books. However, its
services are under threat due to reduced government funding. Bedford
Borough Council is developing a Library Strategy, setting out its vision for
the service and they want to understand how people are using the Boroughs
libraries: which services are most popular, which services should be
prioritised and how they could save money going forward.
The first stage in this process is to undertake a consultation with
members of the public. Paper copies of the survey are available at the
following libraries:Bedford Central / Bromham / Kempston / Putnoe /
Wootton / Mobile Library.
Alternatively you can access the online version at this link
www.forms.bedford.gov.uk/libraries. Post: Consulting Bedford,
6th Floor Borough Hall, Cauldwell Street, Bedford, MK42 9AP.
Email: consultingbedford@bedford.gov.uk
The survey and consultation will be open until Monday 4th April 2016.

TAKE A TRIP TO YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY TODAY!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

FEBRUARY 2016

2) SHOP LOCAL

Just before Christmas we launched our A-Z guide to indie retailers in Bedford. You can pick
up a copy in town centre shops, cafes, pubs and also download it from thebedfordclanger.
com. Look out for other guides launching later in the year
Each month we interview a shopkeeper for our Unique Bedford feature and were
passionate our sharing our love for these High Street heroes. Weve said it before and well
say it again: use them or lose them, Bedford!

3) VISIT A MUSEUM

In March, the BedPop Science Labs with be popping up at the Higgins, Bedford just
another great reason to visit the museum and gallery thats right on our doorstep. At
February half term, Lisa Tilly (uoldbag.com) will be running kids craft workshops, theres
a new Bawden exhibition (more info about both on pages 6 and 7) and the sublime JMW
Turner watercolour exhibition continues until April. If you havent been yet, what are you
waiting for??

Photo: Neil McCarty

4) WATCH LIVE MUSIC

Whether its The Shires at the Corn Exchange, Parma Violets at Esquires, Mat Roberts Jam
Night at the Ship, jazz at the Bedford Arms or buskers in Harpur Square, Bedford is host to
a dizzying array of opportunities to experience exceptional live music. Check out our music
page for info on up and coming gigs and concerts, plus Lloyd Lugsdens monthly interviews
with the stars. This month hes baffling Pauline Black and Richie Ramone

5) SUPPORT YOUR
LOCAL THEATRE

If I had a pound for every time someone opined that Bedford should have a theatre Id
have enough money to build Bedford a theatre. Of course, Bedford doesnt need a theatre
as weve already got three (The Quarry at St Lukes, The Place on Bradgate Road and at
the University of Bedfordshire) not to mention Sharnbrook Mill Theatre just up the A6.
What Bedford needs is for people to realise how good the theatre in Bedford is. And what
good value it is. And what amazing performers, shows and events take place here. From
household names to emerging writers, brilliant stand-up to kids shows, weve got it all on
our doorstep. See our round-up of this months theatre on page 8.

Ugly Duckling at The Place

WHAT WOULD BOWIE DO?

6) BECOME A
HOMETOWN TOURIST

There are loads of ways to find out more about Bedford and half the time you dont even
have to make much of an effort. Just look up above as youre walking along the High Street
to appreciate the towns architecture, walk around our Victorian Parks or take time to notice
the statues and public art. The sliver faces (or Reflections of Bedford by Rick Kirby as its
officially known) has recently been adorned with a plaque commissioned by the Aragon
Lacemakers to explain the significance of the piece. Everydays a school day!

7) AND FINALLY.
LOVE YOUR TOWN

Its not the biggest town and its not the coolest town. But its our town. There are so many
great people doing amazing things in Bedford that it cant help but get better and better. So
lets work together, help each other, be positive and spread the Bedford love.
You can follow us on twitter @bedfordclanger and also join our Facebook page
The Clanger. We have a Bedford Clanger Facebook group too. Our website is:
Thebedfordclanger.com

We recently lost the visionary that was David Bowie and then an
exceptional creator of character, Alan Rickman (not to mention
Lemmy just before the new year). I, personally, was very upset about
it. My husbands first album as a teenager was a Bowie album. It was
a day of reflection for us.
These artists were still so full of work, of exploring their craft. Some
nasty bit of cancer brought them down. They made their days count.
They did things they loved and if it was so-so, they walked away. What
would Bowie do? What would Alan do? Do you think Lemmy cared
what other people thought of him?? He just got on with what he knew
he wanted to do. Job done, still gaining new fans along the way.
Ive said this before. If you have a great idea what are you waiting
for? Make 2016 the year you dig out that story, novel, one act play,
paint brush, guitar, fixer-upper motor and get going. Make it your year
of vision. Inspire someone else to follow their dream. Be a mentor,
a creator, a supporter of great vision (especially to kids). Begin with
your own dream.
Kris Wilkinson Hughes, My Girl the River (www.supertinyrecords.com)

WHERE COMMUNICATION IS KEY

Branding / Advertising / Direct mail / Packaging
Digital / Point-of-sale / PR / Strategy

facebook.com/reactionvm info@reactionvm.co.uk

WHY NOT BOOK YOURSELF SOME THEATRE TICKETS?

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

SKEPTICS
IN THE PUB

Were big fans of the Skeptics in the Pub movement here

at the Clanger. The programme of events for 2016 looks
as interesting, entertaining and thought-provoking as
ever and we look forward to interviewing as many of the
SITP guests as possible. This month we chatted to author
and educator, Jonathan M.S.Pearce ahead of his talk on
Thursday 18th February which asks Do we have free
will, or are our choices determined by our environment
and past experience?
Free will is one of those topics that has a broad based
appeal, explained Jonathan. 86% of philosophers are
agreed that there is an element of predeterminisation in
our lives and just 14% believe in free will. Philosophers
are agreed that humans are a product of our genetics
and our environment. The concept of free will affects
everything (for example, did Jonathan choose to come to
Bedford to present this talk or was he always going to do
it?) and particularly crime and punishment. We will
also consider the impact of free will and determinism
on Christianitys concept of a judgmental God, said
Jonathan. Well discuss the implications for our justice
system if we dont have free will.
North End Social Club: 60 Roff AvenueBedford
MK41 7TW bedford.skepticsinthepub.org

STAGE WRITE 2016

FESTIVAL
OF NEW
WRITING
WEDNESDAY 9TH
SATURDAY 12TH MARCH

theplacebedford.org.uk/tickets 01234 354321

TP Clanger 104x104mm FESTIVAL Advert.indd 1

THE
CLANGER
PICK OF THE MONTH

FEBRUARY 2016

FEBRUARY HALF-TERM FUN WITH LISA

TILLEY AT THE HIGGINS BEDFORD
This half-term holiday Lisa Tilley is back at The Higgins Bedford with a fun
packed series of creative workshops for families. On Tuesday 16th February
come along to Out On The Tiles, inspired by beautiful tiles from the collections
and make your own versions. On Wednesday 17th February explore Miniature
Worlds and make your own dolls house fixtures and fittings. And finally on
Friday 19th February its Oh Wed Like To Be Beside The Seaside! design and
print your own landscape stamp prints inspired by the new exhibition Bawden
By The Sea. The activities are at 11am, 12.15pm, 2.15pm and 3.30pm each day.
The cost is 2.70 per participating child. No booking required.
The Higgins, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD tel: 01234 718618
thehigginsbedford.org.uk

22/01/2016 13:56

Lets sort it

Recycle your paper and card

BAWDEN BY THE SEA

Jonathan Pearce: Free Will-y

POETRY PLEASE

This months Ouse Muse get together is on 17th

February at the Auction Room Bar, 1 Duke St
7.45pm. The guest is Julia Bird, well known poet
and promoter of poetry tours, currently acting CEO
of The Poetry School. Entry is 5 or 4 for readers.
ianmcewen.co.uk/ouse-muse

www.bedford.gov.uk/recycling

Saturday 13 February 2016 Sunday 29 January 2017 Free Entry

Edward Bawdens nostalgic and whimsical depictions of Britains seaside towns
are the subject of the latest exhibition in the Edward Bawden gallery at The
Higgins Bedford. From bathing beauties in Bexhill-on-Sea to childrens sand
castles on Clacton Beach, Bawdens love of the seaside is demonstrated in his
prints and advertising material. He treats the seas inhabitants with equal glee,
scattering murderous mermaids, man-sized lobsters and parcel-delivering fish in his
commissions for Fortnum & Mason and Shell.
Probably the most famous and much loved work inspired by the seaside is Brighton
Pier. It is the first of Bawdens large linocuts, measuring nearly a metre and half long.
It shows his technical ability as the master of the linocut but also his background as
a designer in the way that he takes several notable features from around the city and
seamlessly places them in one picture.
The Higgins Bedford has in its collection three preparatory drawings, the linoblocks
used to print it and two final prints, one from the first edition of 1958 and a second
from 1977. Creating preparatory drawings was untypical of Bawdens working
process, usually he would draw straight on the lino but for Brighton Pier he made
three sketches the last of which closely matches the final print. They offer a fascinating
insight into his thought process, showing how he simplifies the pier, reducing the
Winter Garden in the centre of the pier to an illuminated dome and changes his
vantage point so that the focal point is the theatre, whose domes reflect those of the
Royal Pavilion.
Bawden by the Sea, opening on the 13th February, will be a chance to see all the
preparatory works as well as the blocks and final prints, offering a rare and fascinating
insight into Bawdens working practices.
The Higgins, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD tel: 01234 718618
thehigginsbedford.org.uk

QUEENS PARK COMMUNITY ORCHARD

The Queens Park Community Orchard is a combination of wellbeing, environment friendly and community cohesion organisation that seeks to
unite the diverse communities in QP through events and activities. QPCO organised the first Multicultural carnival last June and a Winter Fair and
has started to reach people beyond the boundaries of Queens Park. Its founders have been asked to set up similar groups around Bedford and the
group has also been invited to the Bedfordshire Police Community Thank you Awards.
All of the members of the Orchard Group work tirelessly to put on activities and events and it shouldnt go unnoticed that this is being done in
their own time, said PC Hayley Hunter, Community Cohesion Officer. We look forward in continuing to work closely with the Orchard Project.
This sentiment was echoed by Amanda Batty, Queens Park Neighbourhood Centre Manager: We appreciate the hardwork that the team put into
running these events and building community cohesion in such a diverse ethnic community. The planting in the community has made it a greener
place for all those that live in or visit Queens Park and enhanced areas such as the Orchard for the whole community to enjoy. Amanda Batty,
Queens Park Neighbourhood centre Manager Marie-Ange Comerford-Raillon, secretary of QPCO, said We are thrilled to be so highly regarded
by so many people, however what is important is the impact that we have directly in peoples lives.
To find out more about the QPCO or to volunteer: bcof.org.uk/qpco

OH... I DO LIKE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

FEBRUARY 2016

MY IPAD & ME

If youve got issues with your iPad or anxieties about Apps, you need
to book onto the Pavilions series of three one-hour classes aimed at the
beginner iPad user. Running weekly from Wednesday February 3rd at
10:30am, the classes are fun, informal and informative and will have
you playing Minecraft and Candy Crush* in no time!
Classes are limited to just 10 people per class. 7 per session. Please
call 01234 351104 to book. (*Other far more mind-expanding and
intellectual apps are available)

New Training Opportunities

with Bedford Training and Assessment Centre (BTAC)

FREE

Learn more about

Childcare

Try a Level 1!

Intro to
Working with Children

WALKING TOURS OF BEDFORD PARK

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

AT CASTLE COMEDY

Castle Comedy returns with its traditional Valentine Special,

packed full of brilliant comics like a laughter-filled box of Milk
Tray! On Thursday 11th February the Gordon Arms Ent Shed
is the place to be with that special person or maybe to meet that
special person or, hey, just be happy on your own
Headlining the show is Sara Pascoe. Sara is one of the
most in-demand comedians on the UK comedy circuit. She is
charming, smart and extremely funny. She received a Fosters
Edinburgh Comedy Award Nomination for Best Comedy Show
2014. She is the star of Stand Up For the Week, Live at the
Apollo and Twenty Twelve (BBC). She has also appeared on
QI and Have I got News for You.
Pascoe uses erudite references as just one strand of an offbeat
worldview, offset by moments of gloriously deliberate dumbness
and delivered with nothing less than full-megawatt charisma The Guardian Support comes from Lewis Bryan and guitarwielding funnyman, George Rigden.
The show will sell out quickly so be sure to book early to avoid
disappointment! Doors open 7.30pm, Show starts at 8.15pm
and tickets are 10 (5 NUS) or 18 which includes a pre-show
meal and glass of wine at the Gordon Arms. To book call
07866 402926 or online at www.castlecomedy.co.uk

CURFEW CLUB

The Curfew Club is a brand new free music event that

takes place each month in different venues around town.
On February 17th you can catch Darling Mundaring in the
intimate surroundings of 44 Harpur Street. The Curfew Club
gigs will be a great opportunity to see truly amazing acts up
close and personal in unusual venues. Forthcoming gigs:
9th March: Paul McClure/Luke Tuchscherer/Adam James
Urwin at the Cavalier Club on the corner of Harpur Street
and Lime Street (7.30pm FREE ENTRY). 23rd March:
Danni Nicholls/Jess Morgan 44 Harpur Street (7.30pm FREE
ENTRY. Tip jars available for musicians and to enable the
Curfew Club to book shows with touring artists in the future.
All shows are bring your own drinks.

Join local historians for a fascinating guided Walk in the Park on

the 1st Monday of every month, starting at 10.30am. Meet at the
Pavilion in Bedford Park for tea or an Americano with a flapjack
and then expert local historians will be on hand to expain the
history of the park as you stroll round. The walks cost 6 and
can be booked at the Pavilion in advance. Each walk will last
approximately 60 minutes and lunch will be available afterwards.
pavilion.attheparkbedford.co.uk

Ready for a Level 2!

Not sure?

JOHN BUNYAN MUSEUM

LAUNCHES CHILDRENS
WRITING COMPETITION
The John Bunyan Musuem has joined forces with the Harpur Trust,
as part of their 450th anniversary celebrations, to launch a writing
competition for children. The competition to write your own 500
word newspaper article on a famous Bedford person will launch on
Monday 22nd February. There are four age groups: 5-8 (years 1,2,
and 3), 8-11 (years 4, 5, and 6), 11-14 (years 7, 8, and 9) and 14-18
(years 10, 11, 12, and 13).
Local journalists from The Bedford Clanger, Beds on Sunday, Times
and Citizen will judge the entries.
It could be Sir William Harpur or John Bunyan, or perhaps Charles
Wells, Mabel Octavia Barltrop, John Howard, or even Glen Miller
who was based here during the war. It could be written from a modern
day point of view, or during the events of the time. Or entrants could
choose a contemporary Bedfordian such as recent record-breakers
Paula Radcliffe or Alistair Cooke.
Curator, Nicola Sherhod said, This year is going to be a really
busy and exciting time at the museum; we are really excited that we
can be part of the Harpur Trust celebrations, and encourage children to
discover more about the people who have made Bedford great.
There will be 12 prizes of book tokens and the closing date
for the competition is 1st June. The John Bunyan Museum will
reopen on Tuesday 16th February, and continue to open Tuesday to
Saturday 11.00am- 4.00pm until October (Closed Good Friday) and
admission is free.
For more details contact the Curator Nicola Sherhod on
01234 270303 or email curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk
bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum

A curious place to
meet - enquire on
01234 889744

Beautiful,
non-intrusive
wedding
photography

Networking cafe and meeting/training

rooms for all your business needs.
info@44harpurstreet.com

Come and
have a chat!

See our website www.bedford.gov.uk/careersinchildcare

for our drop-in dates or give us a ring on 01234 228847
Working in Bedford Borough with Children and Young People

POLL FUNCTION
saturday 20 February, 2.30pm & 7.30pm
How long can a kid kick a ball against a
garden fence for
Two west country plonkers return to
suburbia and wreak havoc on childhood
dreams and a system they believed would
bring them future opportunity.

Ticket price
10 (8 concessions)
Age suitability
16 +
Running time
70 mins

Box office
01234 362337

An inspired space where like minded individuals

can work, meet, train and mingle.

GET WRITING YOUR ARTICLE KIDS!

Working with children

or in social care?

catlaneweddings.com
0770 684 8554

quarrytheatre.org.uk
The Quarry Theatre at St. Lukes is part of Bedford School, which is part of The Harpur Trust

catlanewedddings-clanger_ad-50x75mm-jan15-v3.indd 17/04/2015
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PAULA WALKER HAS ROUNDED UP HER PICK OF THIS

MONTHS THEATRE. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO
BOOK TICKETS, CHECK OUT EACH THEATRES WEBSITES.
TO KEEP UP TO DATE ON ALL PERFORMANCES, MAKE
SURE YOU LIKE THE THEATRES FACEBOOK PAGES, SIGN
UP TO THEIR MAILING LISTS AND FOLLOW THEM ON
TWITTER AND YOULL NEVER MISS A THING!

Book us for your office party, birthday,

engagement, baby shower, wedding anniversary,
christening, or posh afternoon tea!

QUARRY AT ST LUKES
PROPELLER
THEATRE PRESENTS:
POCKET DREAM

Well work with you

to create an occasion youll never forget!
Open 9am-4pm every day
for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Tea
and at other times for your private function.
Supper Clubs Wednesdays & Friday evenings.
t 01234 351104
e bedfordpavilion@gmail.com
w www.attheparkbedford.co.uk
PavilionatthePark
@BedfordPavilion
The Pavilion, Bedford Park
Bedford MK41 7SS

pavilion
b e d f o r d

p a r k

ADERLEY DOGS
DAILY WALKS

Are you looking for a reliable

dog walker in the Bedford area.

Pocket Dream

THE PLACE THEATRE

THINGUMAJIG
THEATRE PRESENTS:
UGLY DUCKLING

18 February 11am and 2.30pm

Tickets: 10 (Concessions 8)
Age guidance: 5+
Life isnt much fun in the farmyard for the misfit duckling. Teased and
tormented, he dreams of kindlier places beyond the farm gates. But will
he survive out there?
Join in the adventures of this famous underdog in Hans Christian
Andersens much-loved tale of transformation, brought to you in
Thingumajigs house style - beautiful puppet characters, live music,
captivating story-telling and a generous sprinkling of theatre magic.
Tickets available at theplacebedford.org or call 01234 354321

Curious Creatures

We offer group walk slots daily from 10.

Great for socialising & exercise.

01234 305 956

www.aderleydogs.co.uk

the puddin club

Puddings Cakes Breakfast Cheeseboard
Great Coffee Prosecco Wine Beer
Cider Ice Cream Milkshakes

Mothers Day March 6th

Bookings now being taken
You can either have private hire in the evening
(not Fridays) or for smaller gatherings we can
reserve you a table. If you need it to be in a
lunchtime then pre-order?

get your just desserts

07773 943586
www.thepuddinclub.co.uk
120a Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3RG

SQUASHBOX
THEATRE PRESENTS:
CURIOUS CREATURES

Saturday 13 February 2.30pm

Tickets: 10 (Concessions 8)
Age guidance: 5+
Welcome to the Curious Creatures wildlife park, established by
Jeremiah Johnson: world-renowned explorer, zoologist and animal
collector. Nobody knows more about animals than him. Unfortunately,
Jeremiah Johnson is currently lost somewhere in the jungles of Africa,
so he has handed the running of the park over to his inexperienced
nephew, Craig... and things dont quite go as planned. Expect to
meet curious creatures of all shapes and sizes: from performing fleas,
skateboarding snails and gymnastic gerbils to an irritable alligator, an
over-excited elephant, and a very intelligent orang-utan!
Learn about how animals evolved, how their amazing adaptations
help them survive in the wild, and how animals can help us learn
more about ourselves.
Using puppets, comedy, slapstick and live music - plus lots of
amazing natural history facts - the mysteries of the animal kingdom
will be uncovered.
(No animals were harmed in the making of this show. But several
puppets were mildly traumatised.)
Tickets available at theplacebedford.org or call 01234 354321

Tuesday 23 February 3pm and 7pm. Tickets: 10 (Concessions 8)

Age guidance: all
Propeller presents a sixty-minute version of its award-winning production
of A Midsummer Nights Dream, especially devised for young audiences
and known as Pocket Dream.
Under Edward Halls direction, this all-male Shakespeare company
combines a rigorous approach to the text with a physical aesthetic to
create productions full of clarity, poetry, speed and imagination. Pocket
Dream will deliver a fresh and inspiring introduction to Shakespeare.
The ensemble creates a relaxed and engaging atmosphere in which
to enjoy the performance, as well as encouraging the young audience to
give an open and uninhibited response afterwards. This production is the
ideal introduction not only to Shakespeare, but to the thrill and excitement of theatre.
A 40-minute post-show Q&A session is included. Audience members
will have a chance to ask the actors about the play, Shakespeare, acting
and anything else that might come to mind!
Tickets available at www.quarrytheatre.org.uk or on 01234 362337.
School group bookings are also taken.

PROJECT THEATRE
PRESENTS:
POLL FUNCTION

Saturday 20 February 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets: 10

(Concessions 8) Age guidance: 16+
How long can a kid kick a ball against a garden fence for Two
West Country plonkers return to suburbia and wreak havoc on childhood
dreams and a system they believed would bring them future opportunity.
Confined within a car for most of the journey, old secrets are aired out
and open questions are asked about who they have become since leaving
the suburbs. They fight, spit, cry and kill, but still find it hard to accept
their feelings are only human
Tickets available at www.quarrytheatre.org.uk or on 01234 362337

BEDFORD
SCHOOL
DRAMA &
MUSIC PRESENT:
CORAM BOY

Tuesday 9 Thursday 11 February 7.30pm.

Tickets: 7.50 (concessions 5). Running
Time: 120 minutes. Age suitability: 8+
Coram Boy is a dramatization by Helen Edmundson of the Whitbread
Award-winning novel written by Jamila Gavin in 2000. Set in London
and Gloucester in the 18th Century, its a sweeping tale that centres on
the story of two orphans at the Coram Hospital for Foundling Children;
Toby saved from an African slave ship and Aaron, the abandoned son
of the heir to a Gloucestershire estate. A play about fathers and sons, the
orphans stories are interweaved with the lives of slave-trader and Coram
Man Otis Gardiner and his son Meshak, and Sir William Ashbrook and
the son he disinherits.
Coram Boy features the music of Handel, including sections of The
Messiah, as well as original music composed by Adrian Sutton and
chamber music adapted by him for this production. This production will
also feature a full choir with boys from Bedford School and girls from
Bedford Girls School.
Performed by boys from Bedford School, girls from Bedford Girls
School and young people from the local community.
(Please note that this story has some gruesome and upsetting
situations which mean that while we consider this production to be
suitable for children of 8+, some children under 12 may find some
scenes upsetting.)

THERE ONCE WAS AN UGLY DUCKLING...

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FEBRUARY 2016

HEY HO - LETS GO
TO ESQUIRES
In February a true punk legend comes to town.
Richie Ramone (the clues in the name) from
iconic NY punk band The Ramones (did you guess
right??) will pay classic Ramones tracks plus his
own acclaimed solo work. Richie joined the band in
1983 and revitalised their sound with his machine
gun-drumming. Lloyd got to speak to Richie in a
quick fire Q&A:

SELECTER!

1-2-3-4...
Bedford Clanger: Do you know of Bedford
UK? (or US?!)
Richie Ramone: I have been to the UK many times
but have never played Bedford. Looking forward to it.
BC: First record you bought?
RR: Jimi Hendrix Are You Experienced

TWO TONE LEGENDS THE SELECTER MAKE A WELCOME RETURN

BEDFORD THIS FEBRUARY AT THE CORN EXCHANGE. FOUR DECADES
IN (!) AND THEYRE STILL PRODUCING SONGS (NEW ALBUM:
SUBCULTURE) WITH THE VIGOUR & VERVE OF THEIR 80S MATERIAL.
EXPECT CLASSIC HITS SUCH AS THREE MINUTE HERO AND ON MY
RADIO. LLOYD LUGSDEN GOT TO TALK TWO TONE & TRILBIES WITH
SINGER PAULINE BLACK:
Bedford Clanger: How was Jools Hootenanny?
Pauline Black: It was a real honour for Gaps
Hendrickson and myself to perform with Jools R &
B orchestra for his annual Hootenanny. Its a really
exciting show and performing in front of a live
audience makes it quite nerve-wracking. Meeting Sir
Tom Jones was an added bonus.
BC: Any knowledge of Bedford?
PB: Gaps Hendrickson grew up in Luton, so
he knows the area well. Weve played the Corn
Exchange before and thoroughly enjoyed the gig. So
we hope our Feb 20th gig is just as good.
BC: What is it that is so enduring about two tone/
ska?
PB: The two-tone movements ethos was and is to
fight racism and sexism. Those two evils are still
rife in the world, even though currently the most
powerful man in the world, the President of the
USA, is black & many women have entered the
political arena. Obviously rights have been gained
and laws passed to further the aspirations and protect
people against racism and sexism, but the world
is still an uneven playing field, whose inequity the
present world political system is loath to do anything
about & leaves the poor of the world largely propped
up by charity from the trickle-down economics of
the last century. Therefore the role of a band like The
Selecter, is to keep that contradiction at the forefront

of peoples minds by spreading our two-tone message

through our new and old recordings & performing
with as much passion as we can muster - & believe
me, that is a lot of passion!
BC: How was djing/presenting for BBC 6 Music?
PB: Always enjoyable. Im allowed to choose
whatever I want and therefore try and get quite a lot
of ska into the playlist!
BC: Any new bands that get you jumping?
PB: The Tuts are a fantastic all-female punk ska
band.
BC: Any Plans for 2016?
PB: The Selecter will be going to Australia after
our British gigs and then we hit the festival
season. Gaps Hendrickson and I have been invited
onto Jools Hollands summer and autumn tours
to perform as guest vocalists. There is plenty
happening in 2016.
BC: How many trilbies have you got?
PB: Five, but there is another one, currently
displayed in a two-tone exhibit in the Rock and Roll
Hall of Fame in Minneapolis, USA.
The Selecter play Corn Exchange 20th February.
Tickets 18 from Marios Hair Design in
Kempston, Boutique Planet, Number 13 and
Seetickets.com

BC: Punkest British band?

RR: Sex Pistols

BC: Which country has the liveliest fans?

RR: South America has always been a crazy place
for Ramones fans.
BC: Best movie ever?
RR: I have many but really like To Kill A
Mockingbird. [My fave too! Ed]
BC: Best bar in New Jersey?
RR: Back in the day Mothers Bar was a great
place to hang.
BC: Fave dish/recipe?
RR: Cheeseburger and a coke.
Richie Ramone plays Esquires, Bedford Friday
5th February with support from the excellent The
Degenerates plus support. Tickets are 12 and
available from see tickets.com, Boutique Planet
and Marios Hairdressers in Kempston.

BC: Whos your favourite drummer?

RR: Buddy Rich and John Bonham
BC: Does drumming keep you fit?
RR: It helps but you still need to eat right and work
out to keep your heart strong. During a show you are
at 150bpm and you have to be in shape to maintain
that heart rate.

ROOTDOWN AT HERD

27th February from 9pm

The legendary Rainer Trueby will be bringing his renowned Rootdown party to Herd on St Cuthberts
Street this month. Rainer is best known for his excellent DJ performances, blending a heady mix of House
with Jazz, Latin, Boogie, Funk and Soul. With a glittering and extensive production back catalogue, he is
considered one of the leading lights of the underground dance scene.
Making the Rootdown party complete, will be one half of Mucho -Soul, Ket Shah.Along with Alan
Kenny Arscott, together they form the much loved Mucho Soul. Over the last few years Ket (Mucho Soul)
has played an impressive line-up including: Southport Weekender, Latitude Festival and The Southern
Soul Festival in Montenegro.
For more details and to book tickets check out Herds Facebook page.

MEGSON AT THE PLACE THEATRE

Three times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of
the Spiral Earth Awards Megson draw heavily on their Teesside heritage to create
a truly unique brand of folk music.
The husband & wife duo will be bringing their infectious mix of heavenly
vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars to the Place Theatre on 4
February from 8pm. As fRoots Magazine puts it if you dont like the music here
then you have a problem!
Tickets from The Place Theatre, theplacebedford.org.uk and are 10.

GETTING A
IS WHAT WE DO BEST.
Branding / Advertising / Brochures / Direct mail / PR
Packaging / Exhibitions / Digital / Point-of-sale / Strategy
facebook.com/reactionvm / info@reactionvm.co.uk / 07979 816 657

WERE ALL OFF FOR A ROOTDOWN!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

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D DRINK
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FEBRUARY 2016

THE ARTISAN TAP

92 HIGH STREET,
BEDFORD, MK40 1NN
BY BEN WOODFINE

I was lucky enough to work at The Bear

for over fifteen years. The pub was a true
community venue, well known for its
alternative appeal with the best jukebox in
town, a wide range of live music acts and
regulars who welcomed everyone whatever
their look or taste in music...
The Bear may have gone but its spirit
still lives on, the people made the place and
whether its at a reunion event (well see
you at Esquires for Very Good Thursday this
Easter), on social media or in the various
pubs that people now drink in, the regulars
will keep its essence rolling well into the
future. The Artisan Tap is a new venue in
town and while there are pictures dotted
around giving a nod to the venue known as The Bear since 1832 the place has undergone a complete facelift. Its great to see the back
bar still has the wooden panels and mirrors, although Ill admit I wont miss polishing them and the long bar is still present, the more
eagle eyed will recognise many of the old tables, chairs and benches have been retained and carefully refurbished. The front room
now acts as a cosy snug rather than a pool room, and there are still no tv screens to distract you from your conversation, in fact all the
bar games have gone so no table football or fruit machine giving more space for seating. The staff are brilliant, a friendly, welcoming
team full of smiles and great service led by Jamie the new manager. They all have a good knowledge of the products they offer and if
in doubt theyll know who to ask to help recommend a drink for you and have it served exactly as youd expect. The drinks selection
has changed with around 40 craft ales, cocktails, Prosecco on tap and an interesting range of gins and whisky/whiskeys alongside the
other spirits on offer. If you cant find what youre looking for the staff are happy to listen to suggestions and weve already seen some
new additions to the stock! One of the biggest changes is the day time offering, there is still free wifi but you can now accompany a
free eMagazine download from Bedfordshire Libraires with a selection of coffees, teas and cakes to match any other outlet in town and
with the full food menu now available its a great place to meet for lunch. Ill miss the jukebox but theres still live local music on offer,
perhaps not as varied as it was in the past but all of a high standard with a well suited sound for the Artisan Tap. As with any new venue
in town its finding its feet and developing its own style but whether Im looking to treat my daughter to a slice of cake and a lemonade
mid-shop, a quiet drink after a romantic meal in town, a quick drink after work or a meet up with friends before a night of live music at
Esquires or a dance at The Pad its still my first choice on the High Street.

SHARIN &
CARIN AT
THE PUDDIN
CLUB

75 77 TAVISTOCK STREET, BEDFORD,

MK40 2RR TEL: 01234 930020
BY STEPHEN BYWATER @AUTHORBYWATER

Cycling by the place it looks functional, efficient. The sort of Arabic or

Lebanese restaurant youd find on the Kings Road. But inside, inside youre
stepping into the Middle East, the Middle East of souks and cafes and cardamom. Theres Arabic music, Arabic news on the tv, the sizzle of the grill, the
chatter of different languages. Abdul greets us, Ahmed greets us. The lighting
is surprisingly warm, almost intimate; coloured babuls hang from the ceiling,
Egyptian lights casting oranges and reds. Theres a feature wall with a picture
taken from inside a mosque: stained glass, Turkish rugs and stone pillars.
We start with a guava juice, Cardamom tea and home-made houmous.
Another step in the right direction. Alcohol isnt served, which is ideal for a
dry January and theres the feeling of when in Rome or Riyadh. The service is
smooth, attentive, hospitable.
Our main courses arrive just as were mopping up the last of our starter.
Ive gone for the mixed grill, Lucys opted for the vegetarian platter rather
than the sea bream. The mixed grill is lamb kofta, chicken and lamb shish. Its
served on a bed of rice and Ive asked for a few chips on the side. Lucy has
falafel, which is crispy, herby, fragrant. Theres houmous, grilled aubergine,
rice with cardamom, Arabic salad. Mine is as good as you could wish it to be:
seasoned, lightly spiced, fresh, delicious.
To finish we have to have baklava, which is sweet and moist and not too
greasy. Its the perfect end. I recommend the Charcoal Grill - either the one
on Tavistock Street or in Luton - as a decent place, a welcoming place, a place
where they serve good food and welcome diners with all the warmth, charm
and consideration that Islam, real Islam, is famous for. My friend Luke loves
it, my friend Nabir loves it, and I think youll love it too. [Were going! Ed]

10

VALENTINES
MENU AT THE DOG
HOUSE KITCHEN
If you want to impress your date this Valentines, we
can highly recommend booking dinner deux at The
Dog House Kitchen in Cople. Weve seen the menu and
its already making our mouths water! Set in a beautiful
Georgian farm house, the Dog House Kitchen is pop up
fine dining at its best. Service is at 7.30pm and the cost is
35pp. Your evening will revolve around seven courses
including an amuse bouche, starter, main course (the Beef
Wellington sounds sensational!), palate cleanser, dessert,
cheese board and coffee.
If youd like to book a table on either Friday 12th or
19th February, contact Liz on 07545 911 615 or email
doghousekitchen@gmail.com.

Valentines isnt just for the romantics. Why not celebrate those
vital, life-saving, sanity-giving platonic relationships? The
Puddin Club on Castle Road positively encourages you to book
up their Valentines night with a group of friends to get stuck
into their Sharing Platters over a glass or five of Prosecco and
non-stop chat. Heres to friendships! For 10, their Valentines
Sharing Platter includes Rhubarb and strawberry crumble tart,
Chocolate Chaos, elderflower and raspberry mousse, Belgium
chocolate tart with rum and raisin and finally white chocolate and
raspberry brioche pudding all served with ice cream or cream.
Booking is essential, so call 07773 943586.
Thepuddinclub.co.uk

Image: jenroffe.com

CHARCOAL
GRILL

THE ONLY TIME I WANT TO BE IN THE DOG HOUSE WITH MY WIFE!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

FEBRUARY 2016

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BEDFORD BOWIE
CELEBRATION

Fans of David Bowie have the chance to

celebrate the cultural icons work with
two special events in Bedford, thanks to
Esquires, The Quarry Theatre at St. Lukes
and Bedford Film Festival.

ENJOY BEING CHILLI

BY JANE PERRONE @JANEPERRONE
PERRONE.BLOGS.COM

Our county is quickly gaining a reputation for its chilli growing. Theres
Salvatore Genovese in Blunham (lovemychillies.co.uk) who harvests
15 million chillies a year, including the lethally hot Bedfordshire
Super Naga. Over in Chawston, chilli growers Edible Ornamentals
(edibleornamentals.co.uk) offer a PYO chilli option in summer plus a shop
and restaurant (reopening on February 5) selling all kinds of chilli delights.
Then theres me, Jane Perrone, in Castle ward, Bedford growing a
couple of dozen plants a year - a much more modest operation, to be
sure, serving a customer base of around four, but still just as satisfying.
Let me admit: I have become a chilli head. It wasnt the headlines
in the papers about chillies helping to burn fat - look into the actual
scientific research and its apparent the amount of extra calories burned
is very small, and the effect is lessened if you regularly eat spicy food
anyway. Perhaps its the decline of my tastebuds as I get older, leading
me to seek a stronger flavour hit from food. I suspect its mainly a way
to fuel my fascination with the Capsicum family of plants. Chillies come
in every conceivable shape and size, from the jet black bullet shaped
Royal Black to the round orange fruits of Tangerine Dream. I love all
the major cuisines in which chillies major - Mexican, Indian, Thai and
Italian among them. Plus chillies make a great item for bartering - yes,
the little plastic baggies I have been handing out to parents in the school
playground are just dried chillies, ok?
Theyre the first seeds I sow every year, and now is the time to get
started: when its cold outside, theres nothing more hopeful than the
sight of a chilli seedling unfurling from the seed casing and reaching
for the light. If you feel really intimidated by the idea of growing
plants from seed, you can buy young plants later in the spring, but Id
recommend giving propagation a go - its a cheap way of producing
many plants, and theyll be adapted to your environment from day one.
If you choose a compact variety, theyll grow happily in a big pot on a
sunny windowsill, too.
To start from seed, its ideal if you can use a heated propagator to keep
the soil temperature toasty (chilli seeds germinate best around 22-30C)
- if you dont have one, put the pot or tray into a clear plastic bag and
place in the warmest, sunniest spot you can find indoors. Sow sparingly
into good quality seed compost and water by spraying the soil surface.
Prick the seedlings out into their own individual small pots once they

are 2-3cm tall, and keep potting on with multipurpose compost as they
grow - when the roots appear through the holes at the bottom of the pot,
its time to pot on. Water little and often, and dont forget to feed them seaweed will be perfect, but there are products specifically designed for
chillies such as Chilli Focus.
Once flowers appear, indoor plants will need a helping hand to
pollinate, so rub the insides of the flowers with your finger or a small
makeup brush to do the job the insects perform outdoors. Plants can go
outside in a sheltered, sunbaked spot once night time temperatures are at
a minimum of 7C.
Below, I have picked out some of my favourite varieties of chilli to try
growing this year. From the superhot to the mildest of flavours, theres a
chilli for every one of us.
Lemon Drop - a rare chilli from Real Seeds (realseeds.co.uk) with bright
yellow fruits that really do smell of lemon when cut. Lovely in a salsa.
Ember Explosive - a beautiful plant from Chiltern Seeds
(chilternseeds.co.uk) with hot hot hot fruits - both the chillies and leaves
are dark purple. Compact; ideal for containers on windowsills.
Padron - a delicious mild chilli thats gorgeous stuffed and roasted.
Buy from Seeds of Italy (seedsofitaly.com).
Albertos Locoto - the tree chilli or rocoto chilli can be overwintered
indoors, and should keep fruiting for several years this way. Available
from Real Seeds (as above).

OTHER JOBS FOR THIS MONTH

I would tell you to stay off frozen grass, but my lurcher has rendered
my lawn a muddy mess, so its a touchy subject round here.
On mild days, add mulch to beds and borders - it will help to soak up
some of the torrential rain of recent weeks. Dont add it to frozen soil
though, or itll delay any thaw by keeping the cold in.
If you still have a Christmas tree hanging about in the garden,
chop up the stems and add to the base of acid loving plants such as
blueberries, skimmias and camellias - it should help to lower the soil
pH. Chop up the main trunk and make a woodpile in a corner as an
impromptu insect hotel.
Its time to cut down perennial grasses such as Calamagrostis and
Deschampsia to the ground ready for new growth come spring. If you
are lazy like me you can leave the cuttings around the base of the plant
as a mulch. Theyll rot down, enrich the soil and suppress weeds too.

The events, dubbed A Bowie Celebration are the perfect chance

for fans of David Bowie, who passed away on 11 January 2016, to
reflect and reminisce about the impact the musician, actor and artist
had on British culture, and also give some a chance to find out more
about the man and his work.
The first event takes place on 6 February 2016, at Esquires from
6pm and will spread over two rooms, including:
The Big Bowie Jam with Mat Roberts & friends a chance to
perform with and listen to other musicians as they play their
favourite Bowie tracks in their own style
Labyrinth a screening of the 1980s classic film
Leah Kardos lecture, the music legacies of David Bowie
Z
 iggy Stardust & The Spider From Mars the cult documentary
To give younger Bowie fans a chance to celebrate his work,
Labyrinth will also be screened at The Quarry Theatre at St Lukes
on 18th February at 7pm.
Organisers Gareth Barber, James Pharaoh and Paul Hutchinson
said: Bowie will forever be a cultural icon. Whether it was for his
music, acting or artwork so many of us will have fond memories of
the impact he had on our lives. These events are designed to help
people express the impact Bowie had on them as individuals, and
perhaps also learn more about the man who permeated so many
different art forms to make a huge impact on British culture.
More details about the events can be found at http://www.
bedfordesquires.co.uk or http://www.quarrytheatre.org.uk

Where s Wally
Fun run

www.rogansbooks.co.uk

russell Park 1o:3O

sunday 2Oth march 2O16

run our family friendly 3.5km fun run

in costume and turn russell park
into a scene from wheres wally !!

www.kiosk.attheparkbedford.co.uk
Kids 3

Adults 12

Family tickets 24

www.facebook.com/kioskatthepark
@kioskatthepark
www.youtube.com/kioskatthepark
pinterest.com/atthepark

Tel: O1234 271877

www.kiosk.attheparkbedford.co.uk

Ethically Sourced Coffee, Organic Tea, Homemade Cakes & Snacks, SaNdwiches & Panini

YOU REMIND ME OF THE BABE... WHAT BABE?... THE BABE WITH THE POWER.

11

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

FEBRUARY 2016

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A ND F

A PHOTO A MONTH:
CHALLENGE CHRIS

INALL
Y...

LOVE MATCH

BY NEIL FRANKEL,
DIRECTOR OF TENNIS AT
RIVERSIDE TENNIS CLUB

Love is a fantastic theme to be writing about for tennis at

Riverside in 2016. Apart from the obvious connections with
love in the sport (slightly odd that LOVE means nothing in
tennis) were starting 2016 with a bang at Riverside and the
notion that Love yourself, love your sport rings true. Weve
launched a collaboration with Xander Conditioning to join
the coaching staff at Riverside to run both Personal Training
sessions (at an incredibly competitive rate) and a new group
fitness class which were calling Courtside Conditioning
The goal of the Xander Condtioning sessions running at
Riverside is simple; improve your strength and speed, whilst
also ensuring you look and feel great!
Our Courtside Conditioning programme
supports 12-players per session, aged 13
and up and were looking forwards to
helping both adults and aspiring juniors
improve their fitness with us. The
sessions will be running on Tuesday
evenings from 8.30-9.30pm and
Saturday mornings from 8.15-9.15am so
please get in touch with Neil Frankel on
doc@riversidetennisbedford.co.uk to
find out more info.

Readers who follow We Are Bedford on Facebook may remember seeing Chris Demotts
post on 14th January. Chris was interested in finding out the off-the-beaten-track locations
and hidden gems of Bedford for a personal photography project. Needless to say, he
was overwhelmed with suggestions, so we got in touch with him to see if hed be up for
collaborating with us and our readers.
Heres Chris: The idea of this challenge is to find me things to photograph in and around
the town, something that you really love in the area, an event that is always a spectacle or
even something that you have seen photographed a hundred times but want to see something
fresh. I want to put together a series of photos that shout about the best bits of Bedford but are
presented in a new and different light, photographs that capture why so many of us are very
proud of the place we call home.
Ill do my best to help you look at the area and even photography differently, Ill write
about how I took the image and share some ideas so you can get a bit more creative as well,
tips to stop you just snapping and start creating.
So, if youd like to Challenge Chris, please email him at chrisdemottphotography@
gmail.com and well print the best one each month. chrisdemottphotography.com

The Head coach of Xander Conditioning is Alex Chaple.

Over the last eight years Alex has focused on achieving
fantastic results in physical transformations and in working
with national and international level athletes in disciplines
including taekwondo, rowing, swimming and cycling. In
2013, Alex was named Personal Trainer of the Year in Mens
Health magazine and has since worked with Champneys
Health Spas, educating their staff and guests in nutritional
protocols for improved health and wellness. Alex is currently
reading for an MSc in Nutritional Medicine and features
in various publications such as Women Running. Were
delighted to welcome him and his team to the Riverside Team.
Youll LOVE it !!
Riverside Tennis Club,
Goldington Rd, Bedford, MK40 3EA
Tel: 01234 352726
riversidetennisbedford.co.uk @riverside

THE LAST WORD

BY REVEREND SHARON GRENHAM-THOMPSON,
PRISON CHAPLAIN, HMP BEDFORD

PROJECT 229

This month we celebrate

the execution of a 3rd century
Christian Bishop (or possibly
lower-ranking priest) in a
flurry of flowers, chocolate and
red satin. St Valentine is a bit
of a mysterious figure, but he
was a real person, probably
executed by the Roman
emperor Claudius II, on
account of his Christian beliefs.
The fervently anti-religious
might not blink an eye at that,
but its still strange to think 21st century Britain marks a
day which has its origins in religious martyrdom.

Project 229 is built at the heart of the community. The pro-active community centre
provides activities and services for people of all ages from 0-99 (and beyond!)
in Kempston, Bedford and the surrounding areas. Services range from crisis and
intensive support, groups and activities for families and those who feel isolated
through to social and active groups, as well as workshops and courses helping people
to develop skills and resilience, meet new people, build relationships and feel more
connected to the local community.
Project 229 also operates the Chiff-Chaff Caf, a great place to meet friends over tea
and delicious cake! Whether you are looking for a new challenge, ways to improve your
fitness, something creative to do, need support through a difficult or challenging situation
or a friendly place to sit and have a cuppa, Project 229 offers many activities and services
to meet a variety of needs, said Project Manager Rebecca Campbell-Grieve. Having
been involved in developing the project for over 11 years, it has been a privilege to see
it grow and develop and to work with so many groups and organisations that enable the
project to have such a wide impact. I am so proud of them! Its the groups and services
and their dedicated staff and volunteers that enable Project 229 to make a real difference
to the lives of local people. Long may it continue!
T: 01234 840880, e: comments@project229.org or visit facebook.com/project229

It seems such a massive contradiction. Violent events in the

past few months, often carried out in the name of religion, have
demonstrated just how dark the dark side can get. Right-thinking
people of all faiths and none have been horrified by shootings,
beheadings and the like, carried out by fundamentalists across a

broad spectrum. Surely, St Valentines Day simply reminds us this

kind of madness has been going on for centuries?
But just as the hearts and lace of February 14th are a parody
of what makes a relationship work, so too are the stereotypes of
all religious people being insane at worst and benign idiots at
best. The name Valentinus has its origins in the Latin word for
worthy or strong - and the eponymous saint is venerated for
being faithful. Thus St Valentines Day is a welcome reminder
of some true fundamentals of life: a love which stands the
test of time is faithful - and a faith for testing times is loving.
Many, many more people of religion, whatever religion, are
good and loving and worthy than are not.
In fact, in my view, its not whether someone has a faith
that matters - its whether they have love in their hearts. Not a
wishy-washy, puppies and rainbows kind of love; and certainly
not the gruesome distortion that drives people to murder. But
if someone demonstrates compassion, generosity, integrity,
humility - with or without a belief in God - then were on the
same side. We might disagree about our foundations and
motivations, but we can work together for the same, positive,
result - an increase of love.

IES
IT
E INASCBETDFIV
CREATATHTEIVHIGG
ORD FEBRUARY HALF-TERM

Edward Bawden (1903 1989) Brighton Pier, 1958 The Edward Bawden Estate

Tuesday 16th February

Out On The Tiles

th
Wednesday 17 February

Friday 19th February

Visit the website at

www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Email

Miniature Worlds

Oh Wed Like To Be Beside The Seaside!

thehiggins@bedford.gov.uk

or call us on

The activities are at 11am, 12.15pm, 2.15pm and 3.30pm each day. The cost is 2.70 per participating child.
No booking required. All children to be accompanied by an adult. All activities last about an hour and are suitable for children aged 3+.

12

01234 718618