THE BEDFORD

CLANGER

AUG/SEPT 2015

Cover illustration by Katie Allen

Bedford Film Festival 2015

11 September - 14 October
Bedford Film Festival
@BedfordFilmFest

Exclusive screenings at The Quarry Theatre and The Higgins, Bedford

Short Films by local and international lm makers
Two-Day lm making workshop at Bedford College
Fringe screenings at multiple Bedford venues

Keep up to date with future Bedford Film Festival news

WWW.BEDFORDFILMFESTIVAL.ORG #SUPPORTVARIETY

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

TH E
C L A NG E R

F
NEWS IN BRIE

LETTER
FROM
THE
EDITOR

D&AD NEW BLOOD

The Design & Art Direction (D&AD)
New Blood event in Shoreditch, London
is one of the biggest dates in the creative
calendar. Each year, Bedford College
students exhibit there to showcase their
work to some of the biggest names in
the industry.
Among the students was James Ring
who has been offered guidance by the
President of D&AD, Mark Bonner after
showing his Yellow Pencils development
idea. The Yellow Pencil is the international
symbol of D&AD. The Bedford College
stand was sponsored by Creative Graphics
International of Kempston who have
worked closely with students in the past to
share real life work experience.
Bedford.ac.uk

We hope you enjoy this bumper August/September issue and it inspires you to take
part in the wealth of great stuff going on in Bedford.
The beach is coming to Bedford at the beginning of August, there are loads of activities
at the Higgins and the Love Bedford Summer Trail is now in full swing. If you prefer
something more sedate take in some jazz, cruise the Ouse or pitch up for the pop up cinema.
This months cover illustrator is Katie Allen, whose work you will have seen in previous
issues. Katie has recently taken the step to leave her teaching job tobecome a full-time
freelance artist, so feel free to contact her if you are interested in commissioning work or
would like to buy one of her prints. www.katieallen-illustration.com
Have a great summer and well see you in October (with lots more info about the Bedford
Film Festival and the BedPop Fun Palaces) Erica & Team Clanger

ST PAULS
SQUARE

RUGBY
DREAMS

David Litchfield isnt the only Bedford-based

illustrator celebrating the launch of a new
book this year (see page 12). Friend of the
Clanger, Katy Dynes recently collaborated with
the lovely Katherine James to create a timely
childrens book all about a little boys dream
to be a super successful rugby player. Archies
Rugby Dream inspires young readers to reach
for their dreams and not give up. Published by
Storymeadow Books, this is the first in a series
of sports themed books about Archie Dart.
A donation from the sale of each copy of
Archies Rugby Dream (6.99 from Waterstones
and online) will be made to the childrens
charity of rugby, Wooden Spoon.

THIS MONTHS BEDFORD

CLANGER WAS BROUGHT
TO YOU BY:
Editor: Erica Roffe @bedfordclanger

It cannot have escaped your notice that the

renovation work at 1-4 St Pauls Square is
now complete! Aldwyck Housing Group,
who will be managing the properties,
have already found tenants to occupy
the lovingly restored buildings, which
have been transformed into comfortable,
modern-equipped town centre homes.
Prior to their refurbishment, these historic
properties in the heart of Bedfords town
centre had been left vacant for nearly 40 years,
home only to a flock of pigeons. Bedford
Borough Councils Townscape Heritage
Initiative project (funded by the Council, the
Heritage Lottery Fund and Bedford BID)
sparked renewed interest in the properties
and in 2014, the properties were bought by
Aldwyck Housing Group to save the buildings
and convert them to much-needed affordable
town-centre housing.
The buildings on St Pauls Square span
over 500 years of Bedfords architectural
history. The oldest building, 1 St Pauls
Square, was constructed in the medieval
period, much earlier than previously thought,
as discoveries made during the repair works
revealed. Dendrochronological dating
of the principal timbers of the propertys
timber frame, which were revealed as part
of the restoration works, uncovered that
the property was built around 1460. The
building was later re-fronted with the elegant
Georgian faade that we still see today by
its then-owner Richard Cave; a wealthy coal
merchant and previous Mayor of Bedford.

thebedfordclanger@gmail.com

Graphics: Adam Boreham www.reactionvm.co.uk

adam@reactionvm.co.uk

Advertising: Julia Crofts @ClangerAds

bedfordclangerads@gmail.com

Cover illustration: Katie Allen

katieallenillustration.wordpress.com
Photography: Alfie Gaishauser @AlfiieG,
Graham Watson @grahamshoots

Great Bedfordian research: Nick Wilde

Theatre: Paula Walker @pauliwauli2
Musos: Lloyd Lugsden & Richard Smith @phaffandpotter
Foodie: Matilda Bywater
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

The Last Word: Reverend Sharon Grenham-Thompson
@glamvicar

Disco Draws: Simon Abbott @toughweak

imaginations
will fly

Explore 90 acres of secret gardens, giant lawns

and mysterious woodland.

Registered charity no. 1140351 (England).

Registered company no. 07447221 (England).

ALWAYS GO FOR YOUR DREAMS!

2
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EAST

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ANdREA LEE

AdvERT
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268x75MM

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WREST AdvERT

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

COVER FEA
TU

BEDFORD
FILM FESTIVAL

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

TH E
C L A NG E R

RE

WE GET THE LOW-DOWN

ON THE SHOWDOWN

I feel like my eyes are going to fall out, co-Founding Director of Bedford
Film Festival, Paul Hutchinson, tells us as he completes watching his share of
the 1,300 short films that have been submitted from across the world for their
2015 Shorts Session. We opened up local submission for the 2014 festival and
this year thought wed invite overseas film makers, just to test the water and
see what happened. We expected a trickle and got a tsunami.
In many ways this is a perfect metaphor for how Bedford Film Festival has
grown in a little over two years. Paul Hutchinson, Richard Jobson and Stephen
Judge have created Bedfords go-to cinema organisation for Bedford, and not just
for the films they screen themselves. They also give help and assistance to venues
that want to screen their own films, and filmmakers looking to find a vehicle for
their work.
I remember the day we sat outside The Higgins Pantry and discussed what
wed do for our first year. explains Paul, I never imagined that when it came to
organising our third festival wed be receiving short films from all over the world,
have venues across the town queuing up to be a part of our event, and respected
industry organisations wanting to work with us.
Bedford Film Festival is certainly putting Bedford on the map and is getting
some impressive attention. Into Film, a BFI funded organisation set up to help
promote education through film, has helped the workshops organised with Bedford
College evolve into a two-day long event, and interest from afar is still coming:
Ive just got off the phone from BAFTA. Paul adds: Yeah, BAFTA! Theyve
noticed what were doing and have got in touch to discuss some ideas for working
together. I cant tell you anything more just yet but were keen to see where this
goes, and ultimately how it can benefit Bedford as a town.
And therein lies the reason why Bedford Film Festival does so well. Its
committed to what works for Bedford and its communities. They have loads of
ideas but only put forward those that they know will benefit the town as a whole.
Thats why they attract support from the likes of: The Higgins, The Pad, The
Quarry Theatre, Bedfringe, Advancing People, Future Legend Media, Advancing
Property, Bonfire CI, SEMLEP, SDG, Roosters, Pavilion in the Park, Design
Twenty, The Smallprint, The Clanger, Charles Wells, and Bedford Borough
Council, who all consistently believe in Bedford Film Festival.
Paul knows its that support and collaboration that has enabled them to achieve
what they have: We couldnt have done any of this without our sponsors. They
have all seen what were doing and trusted in us. Weve returned that trust by
delivering a consistently high quality event that brings positive attention to our
town. Each and every one of our sponsors, volunteers, collaborators, and audience
members should be proud of what theyve helped us achieve. Each and everyone
one of them is a Bedford Film Festival BFF.
Bedford Film Festival opens three days of pre-releases, foreign and
indie cinema on 11 September at The Quarry Theatre, followed by fringe
screenings at multiple venues throughout the month, a Childrens Film
Festival at The Higgins Museum and Gallery on 26th September, and a
two-day filmmaking workshop at Bedford College on 13-14th October.
For up to date announcements like Bedford Film Festival on Facebook,
follow @BedfordFilmFest on Twitter or visit www.BedfordFilmFestival.org.

testimonies from British

servicemen and women who
were involved in the Iraq
conflict in Basra
Time
7.30pm
Ticket price
10 (8 concessions)
Running time
60 mins
Age suitability
14+

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?!
TO FIND OUT MORE

GRAB
SOME FRIENDS
AND GET
A TEAM
TOGETHER!

Check out Facebook for full details

Facebook.com/theburnabyarmsbedford

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

Real ales pies & toasties bar games music courtyard garden

WE STAND AT
BEDFORD MARKET
FRIDAYS ON
MIDLAND ROAD

COVER STAR

This months cover artist is Katie Allen. A

freelance illustrator, Katie is also a member of the
Art School Disco collective who have exhibited
at Animal Gallery and also collaborate with the
Circus of Illustration. She can often be found at
Drink & Draw events and if you like her work, you
can view more (and buy some) at her etsy shop:
katielouiseallen.etsy.com
Katie has just added the print of our beautiful
cover to her shop, so what are you waiting for?

THE
SOMNAMBULISTS
By Richard Jobson

MONDAY NIGHT IS QUIZ NIGHT AT

I ALSO
HAVE A RANGE
OF 3 EACH OR 4
FOR 10 LPS AT
THRIFTEE ON THE
BROADWAY,
BEDFORD

Buying And Selling Used

& New Vinyl
Records and CDs
From The Last Century
to The Present Day
Call us on 07748 612638
www.vinylbarn.co.uk / fb: Vinylbarn

In the play although

it appears that the
speakers are the ghostly
presence, it is in fact we
the audience who are the
Somnambulists, it is we
who were sleep walking
in the build up to the war
and its tragic aftermath.
Richard Jobson

Thursday 20 august
FRIday 21 August
Saturday 22 august

LETS ALL GO TO THE MOVIES!

QuarryTheatreAtStLukes
quarryatstlukes

TICKETS: www.quarrytheatre.org.uk
Further Information: 01234 362335
The Quarry Theatre at St Lukes is part of Bedford School
Part of The Harpur Trust

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

TH
CL A N E
GE R

TH E T

SHARNBROOK MILL THEATRE

MY BOY JACK

H E AT

BEDFORD
TOWN
PASSION PLAY

by David Haig

Monday 14th to Saturday 19th September.

7.30pm Tickets from 9
An intensely moving tale of a family in conflict, unmissable in this, the
100th anniversary of the real-life drama.
Rudyard Kipling, famous for The Jungle Book, uses his considerable
influence, being on a War Office propaganda think tank, to get his nearly 18
year-old son John, Jack, admitted for military service during World War
I after he is repeatedly refused on account of his bad eyesight. A fathers
patriotic dream, but a mothers and sisters nightmare, this is the moving
and ultimately tragic story of a man torn between a fierce, patriotic love for
his country and his love for his son.
Tickets from sharnbrookmilletheatre.co.uk, the Corn Exchange Box
Office on 01234 718044 or in person from Twinkle Twinkle Boutique,
High Street, Sharnbrook. @SMTTheatre
Sharnbrook Mill Theatre, Mill Road, Sharnbrook, Beds, MK44 1NP

RE

The Quarry Theatre, St Peters Street, Bedford

6pm Thursday September 3rd

The evening will include a short extract from the play and the chance to talk to
organisers, ask questions and share ideas. Everyone welcome and under 16s must be
accompanied by an adult
If you are interested in getting involved but cant make it along to the launch
you can still register your interest by emailing bedpp16@gmail.com.

BEDFORD
PASSION

PLAY

On 3rd September, No Loss Productions in partnership with Hope in Bedfordshire

will be holding a launch event at The Quarry Theatre. It is an opportunity for anyone
who would like to get involved in this exciting community project to come along
and find out more. No Loss Productions are looking to recruit performers, costume
makers, set designers, singers, musicians and more.

THE

It has been many years since a full scale open air Passion Play was last seen in
Bedford but plans are well underway for one to take place at Easter 2016. The story
of Jesus trials, crucifixion and resurrection will be staged around Bedford town
centre and the search is on for local people to be a part of it

SHED OF THE YEAR

FINALIST: LUKE WESLEY

In July, the final of the Shed of the Year competition was screened on Channel 4. The
show, hosted by George Clarke and ably assisted by Bedforshires very own Max
McMurdo, celebrates the very best and most unique sheds in the UK. This year, one
of the finalists was Bedfords Luke Wesley with his Cabin of the Green Man
Q1: How long have you been wood carving with chainsaws?
How did you discover your talent?

6 years ago went to I went to Woodworx at Marston Vale, and became

fascinated at what you could do with a chainsaw. I started working with
some guys who did chainsaw carving and then acquired my own license
following a chainsaw handling course at Shuttleworth College. Of
course, chainsaws are dangerous; you cant mess about with these things.
Youve got to keep practicing; Im always learning. In fact, Ive just got
back from Wood Fest Wales that was definitely a school day; I learnt so
much there!

Q2: What made you enter the Shed of the Year competition?

While I was building the Cabin of the Green Man I put some pictures on
social media and people were interested and started commenting, I had been
inspired by watching last years competition. I just thought despite not
being the competition type that Id just enter and see what happened. I had
a couple of replies to say that I had been accepted into the competition and
it went from there. The whole shed is made from recycled wood stuff that
was being thrown away

Q3: How impressed were you with the calibre of the other sheds?
Amazing! Alban who won the lifetime achievement award is such an
inspiration. Were planning to go and stay with him and I cant wait to show
my kids the stuff that hes made.

Q6: What do you think makes the perfect shed? Does it have to
be practical or can it be frivolous?
For me a shed has to be made of timber, its got to smell like a shed, its
got to have felt on the roof and those functional hangy-screws that you can
suspend a spade from! As long as you fulfil all those criteria you can do
what you like with it after that.

Q7: Where can Bedfordians see more of your work?

Im based at Harrold Country Park so Im there whenever I get time. Im

doing a show in Knebworth on 15/16 August and Im at the Glamping Show
on 25 September. Ive just created a big bench between Danish Camp and
Priory Marina, so you can go and find that. I love working on commissions
give me your carving wish list and Ill be able to bring it to life!
Follow Luke on twitter @woodlawcarvings

Cruise Bedfords Great Ouse

Public Cruises every Thursday and Sunday
Charter Hire for your groups and events
See our website for our special cruises

John Bunyan Boat

@johnbunyanboat

JBG15/02

Book online www.johnbunyanboat.org

Phone 01946 817456
For charters email charters@johnbunyanboat.org
Charter enquiries 0330 1239 511

WHAT DO YOU GET UP TO IN YOURE SHED?

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

TH E R
E
C L A NG

H YEAH!
O
.
.
.
C
I
S
MU

THELONIUS
AT THE ENT SHED

Photos: Jez Brown

Thursday 3rd September

Taking inspiration from the Steve Lacy/Roswell Rudd School Days band from the early 1960s,
Thelonious explore the entire Monk repertoire with both childlike curiosity as well as forensic attention to detail. Through collective learning of Monks unique catalogue of 70 tunes from the complete
original recordings in a slow process lasting several months of regular playing, probing, rehearsing,
reflecting, memorising, meditating, internalising and improvising, Thelonious arrive at flexible interpretations of the material that are as dangerous as anything in contemporary music, as well as comforting, groovy and dreamy. Thelonious is made up of Hans Koller (valve trombone), Martin Speake (alto
saxophone), Calum Gourlay (bass), Dave Dyson (drums). Martin has worked extensively with Monk
alumnus Paul Motian (Check out Martins ECM recording with him, Change of Heart), and Hans has
played and recorded with the original Monk repertoire guru Steve Lacy (London Ear). Calum and
David are two of the most melodic and cutting-edge rhythm players active on the London jazz scene
today, perfects partners in the exploration of Monks music.
conscia.org

TWINWOOD FESTIVAL
Twinwood is a unique, retro affair with a huge reputation. It is a three day festival celebrating all things
vintage - at the historic Twinwoods Airfield near Clapham, just north of Bedford. Set on the site of a WW2
airfield where Glenn Miller made his well-documented and fateful journey for Paris, the site has a festival
heritage as well, it briefly held a rhythm & blues festival, which was even used as a filming location for TVs
Midsomer Murders starring John Nettles!
Now, the internationally renowned Twinwood Festival hosts numerous stages and arenas showcasing music and
entertainment from the 20s through to the 60s. The whole gamut of musical genres is catered for, from war time
swing to northern soul! This years acts include Anita Harris, Hotsie Totsies, Gypfunk and John Miller (Glenns
nephew) & his orchestra
Its not just about the music. Vintage lovers will find everything from pop up hair salons to cars, vintage
boutiques and of course, the Glenn Miller Museum.
29th - 31st August, check twinwoodsevents.com for tickets

CONSCIA JAZZ
AT THE ENT SHED

Birmingham Jazz Orchestra, The Ent Shed 6th August

The Birmingham Jazz Orchestra was founded in September 2014 and aims to showcase the composing and
improvising talents of players from the Birmingham scene and beyond. Led by composer/trumpeter Sean Gibbs,
they will be performing music from their upcoming album release, Burns, which features exciting new compositions of Seans based on the poetry of Robert Burns. They will also perform a selection of pieces by other
members of the band, spanning a wide variety of contemporary big band sounds. 10 + 1 booking fee

OXJAM BEDFORD NEEDS

YOU
LOVE BEDFORD FREE
POP-UP OUTDOOR CINEMA
ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK, CASTLE QUAY, BEDFORD
EVERY THURSDAY IN AUGUST
6TH AUGUST
Mamma Mia! (PG)
13TH AUGUST
To Kill A
Mockingbird (Cert.12)

20TH AUGUST
Like Stars on Earth/
Taare Zameen Par (PG)
27TH AUGUST
Time Bandits (PG)

theplacebedford.org.uk/tickets

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UUUUUUUU UU SUUUUUUy 24UU UUUUUUU, UUU UUUUU UUUUUUUUUUU
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UUUUUUUUU.UUUUUUUUUUUUUUU@UUUUU.UUU

01234 354321

Find us on facebook

MY DADS A BIT VINTAGE... WONDER IF HELL BE THERE?

@oxjambedford

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

HERES OUR CULTURAL

PICK N MIX FOR JULY / AUG

FREE
EVENT
15+

THERE ARE PLENTY MORE EVENTS TO BE

FOUND AT THEBEDFORDCLANGER.COM,
SO POP ON OVER AND HAVE A LOOK.

WHATS ON AT ANIMAL GALLERY:

SEASON
LAUNCH

STAGES MIXED MEDIA EXHIBITION

7th August 26th August

To give a larger exposure to the newly created artwork for Stages exhibition held for
one week during Bedfringe at the fabulous Quarry Theatre at St Lukes (on St Peters
St, Bedford), Animal has decided to host the exhibition for further 3 weeks.
The set brief for this exhibition was very simple. As the artwork was created
specifically for Bedfringe Festival, artists were only given the title Stages. The rest
was left up to their interpretation.
Stages at Animal will exhibit both artwork created specifically for Bedfringe as
well as other artwork created before or after this event.

THURSDAY
10TH SEPTEMBER
AT 7.30PM
theplacebedford.org.uk/tickets
01234 354321

TP Clanger 104x104mm Launch Advert.indd 1

TH E
C L A NG E R
PICK OF T
HE MONTH

TABULA ANATOMICA - DRAWINGS,

PAINTINGS, PRINTS & SCULPTURE

13/07/2015 15:52

N.B. up for one week only

Featuring LegePladsen (A father/son art collaboration: a.k.a. Richard & Sebastian
Lloyd). Project Tabula Anatomica places a focus on the working environments of a
variety of creatives and their produce. Artists intention is to draw from characters that
are both fictional and non-fictional. These works will focus specifically on tables and
related studio paraphenalia, a form of atelier/ still-life; or lab.

ART JUMBLE 2

Open Fridays, Weekends & Bank Holiday

Mondays, from April to December

Affordable art sale (mixed media)

Artists, illustrators, photographers, designers, textiles, modelmakers ... etc.
If you loved the first Art Jumble at the end of last year, then make sure you dont
miss this one!
The gallerys list of exhibiting artists has grown so they will be bringing even
ore affordable creative diversity to our doorstep.

CRUISE THE OUSE

Bromham Mill & Caf

Bridge End, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8LP
Phone: 01234 718044 Email: cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk

This summer, why not enjoy Bedford from its pride and joy
the River Great Ouse. Our wonderful community boat, the
John Bunyan, runs trips on Thursday mornings and afternoons,
Sunday afternoons and selected Saturdays. There are special
cruises and events including trips to the Anchor in Great Barford
for lunch, a Hertiage Bedford tour featuring commentary
from one of the towns superb tour guides or Afternoon Tea/
Champagne and canap cruises in conjunction with the Bedford
Swan Hotel. More details, timetables and booking details can
all be found on their website: www.johnbunyanboat.org

AT THE HIGGINS BEDFORD:

THE ABSTRACT ROOM

Unitl Sunday 27th September

Why not help The Higgins turn one whole gallery into a giant abstract art work!
Everyone is invited to help cover the walls with colours and shapes to make a big
artwork inspired by the buoys, waves and boats in Terry Frosts joyous picture
Newlyn Blue Q, on display in Abstract Britain.

FAMILY JOIN-IN SUMMER HOLIDAY

ACTIVITIES

From the 21st July

There will be lots of fun family join-in activities led by Lisa Tilley. These activities
are 2.25 per participating child and suitable for children age 3 and above. They last
for about an hour. This summer at The Higgins Bedford you can create prehistoric
deep sea monsters, decorate some mugs and prepare to explore the Arctic! Check the
website for more details. www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

BAWDENS BOOK ILLUSTRATION

Thursday 13th August. 11.30am 12.30pm

Cost: 5.15 (concessions 4.10)
Illustration fans, this is a great opportunity to get a closer look at the Edward Bawden
archive at The Higgins Bedford. Join Victoria Partridge, Keeper of Fine & Decorative
Arts for a look at Edward Bawdens book illustrations. The session will include a
close-up look at the current exhibition as well as the chance to explore the archive,
including original drawings for Bawdens Puffin Picture Book The Arabs, linocuts for
Chronicles of King Arthur and art work for Salammbo by Gustave Flaubert.

TIME FOR A TRIP ON THE RIVER THIS SUMMER!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

Clanger Advert 104 x156_Layout 1 20/07/2015 12:27 Page 1

COMEDY AND CUISINE

Bedford is to see the launch a

new monthly comedy and dining
experience. On the last Wednesday
of each month Spaghetti Johns
restaurant will be serving delicious
Italian food accompanied by brilliant
comediansthe perfect
combination!
The first show held on Wednesday
August the 26th will be hosted
by Bedford favourite and Castle
Comedy compere, Paul Revill. He has over 500 shows under his belt
including three full runs at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival where he
received numerous 4 star reviews. Last year he was the winner of the
prestigious Bath Comedy Festival New Act of the Year.
Opening the show is Chris Purchase. Chris is one of the most
lovable comedians out there; he offers his observations on phobias,
being a big bloke visiting a theme park and what David Attenborough
would make of his shopping habits. He is a multiple award winner
who recently supported Reginald D Hunter on tour.
Completing the bill is Lewis Bryan. Lewis is a comedian
with over 10 years experience on the UK comedy circuit. His
delightfully dour persona and razor sharp one liners are always a big
hit with comedy audiences.
Doors Open at 7.30pm. Shows start at 8pm more information
can be found at Spaghetti Johns Facebook page

KEMPSTON FUN DAY

From noon on Bank Holiday Sunday 29th August, Addison Howard

Park will host the annual Kempston Fun Day. Admission is free and
for the second year running, Bedford Lions Club will be organising
and manning the event in association with Kempston Rotary Club.
Profits will be distributed to local needy people and organisations.
Attractions this year include:Viking battle re-enactments, Coral
Browne Dog Display, Bedford Pipe Band, a Tai Chi demonstration
and Line Dancing.
Addison-Howard Park, Kempston, MK42 8PN
Car Parking available at entrance to the fete for 1

SUMMER ART EXHIBITION

AT THE PANACEA MUSEUM

From July 16th to October 31st

An exhibition of paintings and drawings created and
collected by members of the Panacea Society.
This eclectic exhibition features a selection of the
artwork that hung in the homes and offices of the
members of the Panacea Society.
Included in the display are sixteen works by
renowned landscape artist Charles Davidson, various
views of the surrounding area by local artists Stanley Orchart and David
Green, as well as impressions of the Panacea Gardens, painted in the
1940s and more recently by Bedford Art Society.
Also on display for the first time is an intriguing set of figurative
drawings and associated songs that were sent to the Society over three
decades in the mid twentieth century. Viewed in their entirety, alongside
the correspondence that accompanied them, they reveal the uneasy
relationship between the respective leaders of the Panacea Society and
their creator, John Tanner, a non-resident member, who was unusually
critical of the Societys philosophies.
Panaceatrust.org

PATTERN TRACKER

Bedford has a plethora of great community assets and there are

probably few other market towns that can boast three excellent
museums all within a short stroll of each other. The Higgins,
Panacea Museum and John Bunyan Museum are all in the
cultural quarter around Castle Lane and this summer they
have joined forces to create an interactive guide for families to
celebrate the decorative arts and patterns within each building.
Pick up your copy of the Pattern Tracker designed by our
cover artist Katie Allen - at any of the participating museums,
the Tourist Information centre or the library.
Thehigginsbedford.org.uk
Bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum
Panaceatrust.org

WEBB ELLIS TROPHY

COMES TO BEDFORD

Put this date in your diary, rugby fans! On Tuesday August 18

rugbys greatest prize, the Webb Ellis Cup, will visit Goldington
Road, the home of Bedford Blues, as part of the Rugby World
Cup Trophy Tour and youre invited to come and get a selfie
with it!
The Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour will travel through Scotland,
Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Wales and England before
arriving at Twickenham Stadium on September 18 ahead of the
Opening Ceremony.
The Club will host an informal gathering from 8pm 10pm
with bars open, food available and music from 7pm as the most
recognisable Trophy in Rugby arrives in Bedford. The event is
non-ticketed and open to all, but there is a maximum capacity in the
marquee which will be stewarded throughout the night. For more
information on the event please keep an eye on the website and
social media in the coming months.
Bedford Blues Chairman, Geoff Irvine said: We are delighted
to be hosting the Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour and believe it is
a great opportunity for supporters and children alike in Bedford
to see this special Trophy in the build up to this years exciting
tournament.
With three matches just down the road at Stadium:MK and
plenty of Blues fans already registered with The Pack as Rugby
World Cup volunteers there is set to be a great buzz around the
region come September, so get into the spirit early at Goldington
on Tuesday 18 August.
http://bedfordrugby.co.uk / rugbyworldcup.com/trophy-tour

TENNIS TIME!

Riverside Tennis Club is hosting a Disability Tennis Showcase

on Saturday 23 August, with a very special guest - Jordanne
Whiley. Jordanne has won 6 Grand Slams and will be playing
an exhibition match against the clubs own Disability Tennis
Manager, Richard Ball. Everyone is welcome to come along
to the club on Goldington Road from 10am-1pm, where they
will not only be showcasing tennis for wheelchair users but
also for players with visual impairments, the deaf community
and people with Learning Disabilities. Whether youre disabled
or not, youll have the opportunity to get on court and play
against Jordanne and its not everyday that Bedford welcomes
a 6x Grand Slam Champion!! You can learn more about
Jordannes story at www.jordannewhiley.com
http://www.riversidetennisbedford.co.uk

Beautiful,
non-intrusive
wedding
photography
BEDFORDS INDEPENDENT

MUSIC VENUE

elcome to Esquires, one of the UKs most

W
loved independent music venues. Whether
you want to catch the hottest new band on
the Main Stage, dance the night away in Holy
Molys or grab a drink in Dannys Bar,
youll find all the info you need here!

01234 340120
www.bedfordesquires.co.uk
60a Bromham Road,Bedford

COME ON YOU BLUES!

catlaneweddings.com
0770 684 8554

catlanewedddings-clanger_ad-50x75mm-jan15-v3.indd 17/04/2015
1
14:12

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

CLANGER REVIEW:
HERD, ST CUTHBERTS
STREET, BEDFORD

Relaxed
Remarkable
Refreshing
Open 9am-6pm every day for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Tea.
Little Free Library, Magic Wand Cookies, Picnic Packs
(and more trees to climb than you could wish for!)

#notjustforgrownups
See our website for more information.

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

the puddin club

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

Highly Commended in the

Beds Food & Drink Awards,
Best Independent Tea/
Coffee Shop 2015
check our website or Facebook
(thepuddinclub) for events and offers.

get your just desserts

07773 943586
www.thepuddinclub.co.uk

By Matilda Bywater
Herd arguably fills the gap in Bedfords gourmet burger market during the day
whilst offering a separate chic bar area at night (open until 1 a.m. on Fridays
and Saturdays). The interior is modern with a minimalist industrial feel that
somehow doesnt detract from its cosiness. Think rustic wooden benches,
artfully draped wires suspended from the ceiling, exposed light bulbs and
Lichtenstein prints lining the walls. Aesthetic-wise, Herd is Bedfords answer to
the trendy eateries-cum-bars found in the capital.
Reassuringly, there are only seven burger options on the menu confirming
that everything is meticulously prepared fresh on the day, yet the pricing is
still reasonable.
Upon talking to the owner, Matt (ex-employee at Pizza Express and now
living out his dream) we learnt that all of the beef used is indeed sourced from
a local provider that also supplies Waitrose with their meat. We opted for the
Classic Burger and Veggie Burger respectively, in order to cater for the meateaters and vegetarians alike within The Clangers readership, with the former
arriving resplendent: succulent beef slathered in a homemade bacon ketchup.
The latter boasted enough wholesome seeds and halloumi to satisfy even the
most critical omnivore - a triumph in comparison to other niche burger restaurants that try to pass off a soggy portabello mushroom sandwiched in between a
bun as a veggie burger (ahem, Byron). Each burger also came with a generous
helping of hand cut skin on rosemary and garlic fries delicious!

AND OVER
IN THE BAR

There is plenty of craft beer talk about at the moment, so when Matt
Wolton, the founder of Herd, asked me to help put his beer range together
it was a real chance to do something different from your average Bedford
pub or bar. Ysee Herd isnt just about the burger. The American craft
brewers are making some superb beer right now so weve brought in a few
beauties for you to have a tilt at. Theres a couple from California based
Anchor Brewing to sit alongside the well respected and highly hopped US
craft classic Sierra Nevada. Theres also a wonderful craft lager from Goose
Island plus a belting IPA from Scottish brewer Brewdog (even a gluten free
version). There are European brands too such as Amstel and Duvel, Asian
brews such as Singha and Tiger and theres a quality taste of home with
Black Sheep Ale. But if you dont know your IPA from your single hop
fear not. At the end of the day, theres a range here thats got something
everybody so get yourself down for a crafty beer when you can.
By Jonny Kirkham, founder of My Generation Beer Company

TH E
R
C L A NG E

D DR
FOOD AN

I NK

SOMETHING
FISHY ON
NEWNHAM
STREET
The newest kids on the St Cuthberts block are GCH
Fishmongers, and if the reaction on social media
is anything to go by, their arrival is very eagerly
anticipated. Father and son owners, Gary and George
Hooper, are infectiously passionate about fresh fish.
Ive been in the business for 35 year, said Gary
when we spoke to him a week before the launch. My
background is supermarkets. I was retail ops director
at Safeway and ran my own consultancy working
with Sainsburys and M&S to advise and train their
fishmongers. In 2003 I joined the National Federation of
Fishmongers and in 2010 I was the first fishmonger with
a supermarket background to be voted as president.
Talking to Gary it is clear that he is as passionate about
Bedford as he is about fish. I worked on my mates stall
at Billingsgate for years, but always wanted to open a
shop in my hometown. The reaction from Bedfordians
has been really encouraging and were looking
forward to getting started. GCH are going to offer
regular deliveries and will adapt their opening hours to
accommodate the needs of their customers.
GCH Fishmongers, 2 Newnham Street, Bedford
tel: 01234 301472 / gchfishmongers.co.uk

120a Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3RG

13
er

mb
Nu

LICENSED CAF BAR

WE OFFER A GREAT MENU AND WONDERFUL

ENVIRONMENT FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
TO COME AND ENJOY!
Open 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday
10am to 3pm, Saturday
Bedford Corn Exchange & Number 13
13 St. Pauls Square, Bedford MK40 1SL
Phone: (01234) 718044 Email: cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk
Web: www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

CHEEKY
SPOTS

by Kristine Hughes (artist, musician, writer and

Clanger columnist)
I discovered things this week, just in time for my piece in
the Clanger. Delices in the Art Centre (right beside Lurke St
parking) and The Castle Kitchen on Castle Rd. Why do I want
to bring them to your attention? Because sometimes we just
happen upon things and they must be talked about, shared and
praised. Just like an artist with a new technique, a songwriter
with a new song or an actor with a new play, support it and rave
about it! Im raving about little shops adapting and creating
in the face of tough economic times and larger shops stealing
away clientele. Delices is an authentic french patisserie and you
will love eating your croissant and then looking at the latest
art offering at the Art Centre its a win/win! And the Castle
Kitchen food compliments of Ash, made my day. Delicious
veg curry and other treats. More to come in the autumn (I cant
wait)! These little spots will keep me going thru the summer
while I ready The Frogs Chorus, Wonderfuel AND My Girl
The River for September. I hope your summer holiday is full
of great fun and cheeky bits of great food and entertainment,
wherever you are, even if you stay in Bedford!

I HERD YOU...IM OFF FOR A BURGER!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

TH E
L
C A NG E R

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

GREAT BEDFORDIAN

FORD
UNIQUE BED

WILLIAM HALE WHITE (MARK

RUTHERFORD) AND HIS FATHER

UNIQUE BEDFORD:
BOUTIQUE PLANET
THE ARCADE, BEDFORD / BOUTIQUEPLANET.CO.UK

With the mercury rising, we thought it was about time we got the lowdown on this
seasons fashion must-haves from Nick, Jo and Kath at Boutique Planet.
Bedford Clanger: Summers here! What are the key trends for this season?
Boutique Planet: It is, finally! Dont be afraid of print this summer. Be it on a dress or
trousers. Also, everyone should own a kimono! Wear it either with jeans for a casual look or
on the beach as an on trend cover up.
BC: Do you have any new brands this summer?
BP: Yes, we have taken on French Connection. Style and quality for those seeking a luxury treat.
BC: Your childrens wear is adorable! What are the brands that you stock? What are your
best sellers?
BP: We have Petit Bateau, Bumble Bee and The Loop Factory. Bumble Bee for dresses and
rompers. The Loop Factory for hats and booties. Both are handmade locally and are adorable.
BC: What are your key pieces for music lovers heading to festivals this summer?
BP: We have a great mix of lightweight dresses which are great for if you need to streamline
you packing. Also we have a beautiful and versatile kimono in a pretty floral print from Vila.
BC: Why do you think its so important for Bedford to maintain its mix of big brands and
indie retailers?
BP: Bedford must maintain its great mix otherwise we will soon become like every other
ailing town in the country. We have a wonderful town with plenty of shops to visit, great
places to eat and theatre productions to watch if we chose to seek them out before leaving to
the surrounding towns and cities. It is this unique mix that means Bedfords housing market is
buoyant our education offering excellent and is why people are moving here from the city.
BC: PS: we LOVE your blog!
BP: Thanks, its written by the amazing Kath Law who is the latest addition to the Boutique
Planet family. Well let her know youre fans!

WHAT A GREAT HISTORY LESSON.

By Nick Wilde
On Bedford High Street towards the town bridge between River
Coffee and Nandos a rectangular plaque marks the birthplace of
William Hale White (Mark Rutherford) on 22nd December 1831.
Hale White wrote to a lifelong friend for some reason I dislike
Bedford. My fathers shade meets me at every corner when I go
there. But later, when writing a biography of John Bunyan he wrote
Elstow and the Ouse and in a measure the temper of the man are in
my blood and his Early life of Mark Rutherford paints a more truthful story of his love of the river, boating and fishing and the town of
his birth.
Hale White, as he was known to distinguish him from his father,
William White, attended Bedford Modern School and worshipped at
Bunyan Meeting where his father ran the Sunday school. His father
was a bookseller who held radical and outspoken views. Business
suffered as a result. He eventually moved to London becoming
Doorkeeper at the House of Commons and wrote parliamentary
sketches for the press which was published as The Inner Life of the
House of Commons.
Hale White left Bedford and went to Cheshunt College to train
for the ministry then moved to New College in London. With two
friends he was expelled for holding unorthodox views prompting his
father to write a defence of his son called To think or not to think.
After unsuccessfully trying teaching Hale became a civil servant.
He married and had four children but his wife had multiple sclerosis
and died in 1891. The Hale White family lived in Carshalton but
when his wife died and children left home moved around, living in
Hastings with his daughter Mollie for a while eventually moving to
Groombridge, East Sussex. In 1911 Hale married again to Dorothy
Vernon Smith, a young novelist 46 years his junior. He died in 1913
and is buried in the village churchyard.
The fictional life story in the Autobiography and the Deliverance
as well as the latter part of The Revolution in Tanners Lane show
a picture of dissenting life in Bedford. His other novels, Catherine
Furze and Miriams Schooling are set in Bedford-like towns. He
wrote especially well about young, independently minded women.
His last, Clara Hopgood caused some controversy prompting him to
deny his having written the books published under the name Mark
Rutherford.
Hales youngest son said, From 10.00 a.m. till 4. p.m. he worked
at the Admiralty and that work he liked, and then he went, once a
week or so, to the House (of Commons) and heard what was going
on and then home to write his newspaper articles, then to bed and up
again at 4 a.m. to work on his books. At 6.30 I got him the papers
and he breakfasted and finished his newspaper articles. Ive often
seen him in the waiting room at Victoria Station writing and writing
always an article to be finished.
For more information check out the Mark Rutherford Resource:
davidfrench.org.uk/markrutherford/ there is a road, a school and the
sixth form building at Bedford Modern School is named after him.
The Mark Rutherford Collection is in Bedford Central Library. The
novels are available for loan from there and are free on Kindle. The
most recent book about him is Michael Brealey, Bedfords Victorian
Pilgrim. 2012.

Hale White (age 12) with his father William

Mark Rutherford gravestone

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

LOVE BEDFORD FREE POP-UP

OUTDOOR CINEMA

TH E
R
C L A NG E

G
ARDENIN
F I LM & G

There is something wonderfully romantic about watching a film under the stars. Since the very first cycle cinema at
the Archaeological Park in 2012, it has now become a regular venue for pop up pics and this summer is no exception.
Heres our essential guide to this seasons Love Bedford FREE Pop-Up Outdoor Cinema in conjunction with the Place
Theatre. (Start times are approximate - films will begin just after sunset. Come early and bring a picnic)

MAMMA MIA! (2008)

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD (1962)

Thursday 6 August 8.45pm

Thursday 13 Aug 8.30pm

What is not to love about this superb

adaptation of Harpur Lees enduring
classic? Gregory Peck won an Oscar for
his portrayal of Southern lawyer Atticus
Finch who defends a black man (Brock
Peters) accused of assault. The film is
told through the eyes of Atticus daughter,
Scout. Her Thanksgiving ham outfit is one of the greatest costumes in
cinematic history. Running time 129 minutes. Certificate 12.

Theres Abba, theres Meryl and theres Piers Brosnan. This tale of
finding love the second time round on a Greek island is told through
the glorious 70s songs of Swedens second favourite export. Dress to
impress and expect to sing along to hits like Super Trouper, Dancing
Queen and Knowing Me, Knowing You (a-ha). Running time 104
minutes. Certificate PG.

LIKE STARS ON EARTH /

TAARE ZAMEEN PAR (2007)

Thursday 20 August 8.15pm

Eight year old Ishaan (Darsheel Safary)
lives in a world filled with wonders that
no one else seems to appreciate. He is
thought to be lazy and a troublemaker,
until the new art teacher (Aamir Khan)

has the patience and compassion to discover the real problem behind his
struggles in school. Directed by Aamir Khan. In Hindi and English with
subtitles. Running time 165 minutes. Certificate PG.

TIME BANDITS (1981)

Thursday 27 August 8pm

Schoolboy Kevin (Craig Warnock) is rescued from his dull suburban life
when a gang of dwarves emerge from his wardrobe and carry him off
through space and time in this bizarre comedy made by several members
of the Monty Python team and directed by Terry Gilliam. Certificate PG.
If you would like to suggest a film for next summer email
info@theplacebedford.org.uk

IT MUST BE TIME TO FIRE-UP THE SUMMER BBQ!

BY JANE PERRONE @JANEPERRONE
PERRONE.BLOGS.COM

Its pelting with rain as I write, so its hard to imagine

peeling my barbecue out of its waterproof cover any time
soon, but the next two months should bring us sizzling
hot days aplenty. Well I hope so, anyway, because
Ive become a little evangelical in recent times about
barbecuing on charcoal. If you have a gas barbecue, move
along, theres nothing for you here. Skip to the hoverfly
bit, below.
Are they gone yet? Ok, now its just us charcoal
burners left, let me start by asking: do you know where
your charcoal comes from? If youre buying bog
standard charcoal briquettes or lumps from a DIY shed
or supermarket, I can pretty much guarantee that your
bargain buy is imported, and its also a good bet that
the wood is unsustainably sourced from tropical forests,
harvested by poorly-paid, possibly exploited workers.
And I bet you need to use a ton of firelighters or lighter
fuel to get a good burn going.
This is madness, especially when theres a local
source of sustainable hardwood charcoal on our
doorsteps in the form of Forestry Fuels (forestryfuels.
com). This small family firm makes charcoal from
locally-sourced hardwood from carefully-managed
woodland and waste wood from other industries such
as furniture making. Theyre based just over the border
in Cambridgeshire but you can buy Forestry Fuels
charcoal in butchers Lingers, David Jon, McKenzie and
Ashpole, farm shops Summerhill at Cardington, Pells at
Wilden and Browns of Stagsden, and Whole Foods near
Bedford bus station. Its not as cheap as the imported
stuff, but its far more economical.
Youll only need a few twists of paper as a firelighter,
its ready to cook on within minutes. The lack of
chemical additives also make it ideal for the new trend
of dirty barbecue, where you cook directly on the
charcoal. Try it, and you wont go back to the other stuff.
Final tips? You can also add the post-barbecue sweepings
to your compost heap as its a great soil improver. And
if you want to try adding some extra piquancy to your

10

cookout, try adding woody herbs such thyme, sage,

oregano, rosemary and myrtle direct to the coals part-way
through cooking, dampening them beforehand to make
sure they smoke rather than burn up immediately.
- And now I want to talk about hoverflies. I am not
going to lie to you, hoverflies are a hard sell, even to
those of us who are devoted to promoting garden wildlife.
Its almost as if hoverflies know theyre never going to
be flavour of the month with us gardeners - they look
like flies in wasps clothing, and if theres something
humans hate more than flies, its wasps. (This trick is
called Batesian mimicry, by the way: a trick to fool birds
and other predators into thinking they are sting-wielding
wasps, instead of harmless flies.)
If that isnt bad enough, their larvae are not exactly cute
and cuddly. Some look like see-through caterpillars: their
innards pulsate as they squelch along. Others, grosser
still, live in shallow, stagnant water and look like wiggly,
water-dwelling maggots, with a long breathing tube
that earned them the name rat-tailed maggot, although
as adults they become the drone fly. These are the ones
you may find in your water butt. So what are their good
points? Hoverflies are not only brilliant pollinators, but
the larvae of many species are prolific aphid-munchers.
And they have other talents: in between the hovering, the
adults fly at speeds up to 40km an hour.
So now Ive convinced you of their brilliance, what can
you do to encourage these vital, misunderstood creatures
into your garden? Well, the hardcore way is to leave a
bucket of water open to the elements, with a handful
of leaves chucked in to provide a food source for baby
drone flies: this can be smelly, so ideal if you have a big
garden or allotment to experiment in without offending
the neighbours. Easier (and less stinky) than that, plant
lots of bright, open-faced flowers that hoverflies love: pot
marigolds, parsley, cornflowers and cosmos, for instance.
And stop using insecticides in your garden, that wipe out
those ugly but vital hoverfly larvae which, if you let them
be, would solve your pest problem anyway.
Looking for jobs for August and September? There are
none. Just go and enjoy your garden.

Forestry fuels

A fly in wasps clothing

DEAD? NO EXCUSE FOR LAYING OFF WORK.

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

TH E
C L A NG E R

KIDS FUN & G

AME S

A MARVELLOUS MASH UP OF ART & SCIENCE

This October, BedPop is going to give everyone the opportunity to get down with art and science right in the heart of Bedford. On 3rd
and 4th October, the BedPop Fun Palaces will open their doors for one weekend only and bring a multi-venue mashup of art and science
to the town centre.

WHAT ARE FUN PALACES?

In the early 1960s, Joan Littlewood and architect Cedric Price conceived
the Fun Palace as a laboratory of fun and a university of the streets.
It was to be a temporary and movable home to the arts and sciences,
open and welcoming to all. For all sorts of reasons, it wasnt possible in
1961 and the Fun Palace never came to fruition as a building. The idea
however, of a space welcoming and open to all, bringing arts and sciences
together, where everyone is an artist and everyone a scientist, remained a
GREAT idea.
On 4 & 5 October 2014 there were 138 local, temporary Fun
Palaces across the UK and beyond, made by local people for their own
communities, bringing together arts and sciences, free and fun, linked by
the digital Fun Palace website Everyone an Artist, Everyone a Scientist.
There will be many more including Bedford joining in 2015.

Theres a story that when Joan Littlewood asked the kids of Stratford
East what they wanted in her prototype Fun Palace, the Stratford Easter
Fair in 1975, the kids said Donkey rides! She replied, Yes, and how
do we get the donkey here? We think theres nothing more radical than
saying Yes and and then doing it.
This year, Bedford has said, yes and now we need your help to do it!

WHAT?

WHERE?

TAKE PART

The BedPop Fun Palaces will be taking place in five different venues
throughout the town. Were taking over the whole of the Higgins for
the weekend, will be at Animal Gallery, The Quarry Theatre at St
Lukes, in the Library, in Harpur Square and anywhere else we can
wriggle our way in.

Were still hatching our plans and talking to collaborators, but we can
guarantee that the BedPop Fun Palaces are going to blow your mind with
loads of amazing FREE events taking place in venues and spaces all over
town. If you like art or science or both you are going to LOVE the
BedPop Fun Palaces.
Scientists, artists, teachers, designers, students, crafters, makers, dancers,
architects, coders, photographers, actors, performers, brewers, musicians,
jugglers, chemists, illustrators, engineers. We want you!
Anyone can take part in the BedPop Fun Palace, so please get in touch
and request a Participation Form.
We will also need lots of volunteers to ensure all our events run smoothly.

HOW DO WE GET IN TOUCH?

Wed love to hear from you, so if youd like to get in contact, please email
bedpopshop@gmail.com.
You can find out more about national Fun Palace initiatives at
funpalaces.co.uk and we also blog there, so you can get the latest info on
the BedPop Fun Palaces by searching for Bedford. Were on twitter @
BedPopFunPalaces and also have a Facebook page.

Summer SenSation
of Sport

wednesday evenings 6.3o-8.3opm

ADERLEY DOGS
DAILY WALKS

Are you looking for a reliable

dog walker in the Bedford area.
We offer group walk slots daily from 10.
Great for socialising & exercise.

01234 305 956

www.aderleydogs.co.uk

HELP OUT & VOLUNTEER!

FRE

july 22nd, 29th & august 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th

Summer evenings of fun & relaxed

social sport for all the family.
all you have to do is just turn up!
TENNIS
cycling
ping-pong
bowls
nordic walking
kayaking

quick cricket
putting
boot camp
personal fitness
rounders
touch rugby

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

11

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

THE BEAR AND THE PIANO

COURTING SUCCESS

BY DAVID LITCHFIELD
To celebrate the launch of The Bear and
the Piano, Clanger contributor, illustrator
extraordinaire and author David
Litchfield has EXCULSIVELY given
us a numbered and signed art print of
the cover of his new book for one lucky
Clanger reader to win. Needless to say,
the utterly charming Bear and the Piano,
which launches on 3 September, has
already been singled out by industry
experts as a future childrens classic.
To enter the competition, simply email
thebedfordclanger@gmail.com with the
answer to this question: Ebony and Ivory
was a duet all about pianos. Can you name
the singers?
We must receive your email entitled
Clanger comp - by Friday 28 August.

By Neil Frankel, Director of Tennis at

Riverside Tennis Club
Phew! an amazing Wimbledon with
Novak Djokovic edging out Roger
Federer and Serena Williams looking
unstoppable despite the best efforts of
Heather Watson. Alongside that, Andy
Murray had us all believing that he could
go all the way again. Despite all the
excitement in the media around Murray,
the best performance from a Brit was
from Jordanne Whiley who won the
Ladies Wheelchair Doubles Final with her
Japanese partner, Yui Kamaji.
We are thrilled to be welcoming
Jordanne (who has now won 6 Grand
Slams) to Riverside Tennis Club on 23rd
August 2015 from 10am-1pm for our
Disability Tennis Showcase Open Day.
Everyone is welcome to attend this event
and feel free to spread the word! On the
day, we will be showcasing tennis for
wheelchair users alongside players with
visual impairments, the deaf community
and people with Learning Disabilities.
Whether youre disabled or not, youll
have the opportunity to get on court and
play against Jordanne and also watch her
play an exhibition match against our very

WIN!

ART SCHOOL DISCO DRAWS...

Each month we challenge members of art collective, Art School Disco to interpret our monthly
theme. This month its all about summery sunshine & weve chosen Simon Abbotts pic of
the sun heading off to the seaside for his holibobs. He might want to get that exhaust seen to
though @toughweak @artschooldisco artschooldisco.tumblr.com

TH E
C L A NG
ER

own Richard Ball (Riverside Disability

Tennis Manager) - Its going to be another
fantastic day for the club and its not
everyday that Bedford welcomes a 6x
Grand Slam Champion!! You can learn
more about Jordannes story at www.
jordannewhiley.com
On the day (put it in your diary or you
might forget) well also be meeting up with
Paul Westerman who runs Charity Oars,
raising money for Thrombosis UK by
getting celebrities to sign vintage oars and
auctioning these off.
Diary date #8 Clanger fans (OK its
not really a date but.) throughout the
summer holidays, were running our
legendary Summer Camps. Our camps are
split into 3 ages groups: Mini Nippers,
for kids aged 3-8yrs which run daily from
9-12noon throughout the summer holidays;
Mini ACERS for children aged 7-11yrs
which run across a whole day including
lunch break in the clubhouse & RAW
Tennis for 11-18yrs which run the same
timings as the ACERS camps. We can
cater for the complete beginner to the Club
player and we stream the groups within
each camp. Come and see what everyone is
talking about.

A ND F

INALL
Y...

Get in touch.

Join the tennis revolution.

doc@riversidetennisbedford.co.uk

THE LAST WORD

BY REVEREND SHARON GRENHAM-THOMPSON,

PRISON CHAPLAIN, HMP BEDFORD
My summer this year began in earnest with a weeks retreat.
Most of my colleagues were envious: Lucky you they muttered,
as they saw me swanning off on what they thought was a weeks
free leave from work. But my day job requires me to be a spiritual leader, not just a manager and administrator, so unsurprisingly, taking time out to reflect on the spiritual side of what Im
supposed to be doing is in the job description.
Ive tried all kinds of retreat over the years - silence in a convent
(mealtimes were a bit of an ordeal of noisy mastication until someone
decided to put calming classical music on); guided weeks of prayer
and meditation; even personality analysis. But Im a nature-lover at
heart (someone once said it was the pagan in meerrrr.) so the
times Ive found most helpful spiritually have been the retreats which
involve the natural world, often walking and hiking.
Im fascinated by John Bunyan - as the chaplain of Bedford
Prison how could I not be; Bunyan was locked up in the 1660s for
not toeing the religious party line, and wrote his most famous work,
the Pilgrims Progress, while incarcerated in the old Bedford Gaol.
I identify with him in lots of ways - a few dodgy episodes in my
youth (nuff said), a non-conformist (although it had a technical
meaning for him, to do with which church he belonged to), and a
passion for communicating faith in a way thats actually relevant to
peoples everyday lives. And, like John Bunyan, I love walking.
So I decided the retreat would be a meander along some of the

Greensand Ridge and the Bunyan Trail, thinking improving thoughts

along the way. I trekked in the drizzle from Everton to Old Warden,
taking in the chocolate box villages and cricket on the green at
Ickwell. Then on to Ampthill via Clophill, stopping at the ruined
St Marys church to marvel at the first recorded priest having been
appointed there in 1145AD. From Ampthill to Woburn, past the
Millbrook proving ground, and through ancient woods that I last
visited in May on the last walk I took with my little dog Ralphi before
he died. And I think Woburn deer park is even more beautiful on foot,
even if those feet were somewhat sore! Then, on the final day, from
Woburn back up to Cranfield, through rolling countryside ablaze with
wildflowers, following Bunyans route. Amazing history and beauty
right on our doorstep.
Talking of wildflowers, one of the fascinating facts I learned
was that in the fields around Beeston (near Sandy) there are about
150 different species of wildflower, some of which originate from
Australia. The seeds were carried in the wool of sheep from Down
Under, which was imported to the Midlands to make carpets.
The waste wool was spread on the fields around Beeston as a
mulch - and the Aussie flowers sprouted! So if this summer sees
you staying in the UK, I hope you get to marvel at this beautiful
country of ours. And if youre off further afield, may you bring
back the seeds of new ideas and new joy from foreign climes and
spread them far and wide once you return!

N
SUMMER FU
EDFORD
AT THE HIGGINS B

Family Fun Join-In Activities include some prehistoric sea-monsters, becoming an Arctic explorer and decorating some mugs.
Visit the website at

12

www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Email

thehiggins@bedford.gov.uk

or call us on

01234 718618

TIME TO GET ON THE COURT!