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ISSUE 21: MAY 2013

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

For: music-lovers, culture-vultures, crafters, artists, makers, gardeners, traders, foodies, fashionistas
@bedfordclanger The Bedford Clanger Group Page email: thebedfordclanger@gmail.com blog:thebedfordclanger.wordpress.com

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

HOMETOWN TOURIST

MAY 2013

Bedford and Bamberg The Importance of Twinning

by Edward Keech

Vases: Not just for flowers

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

Letter From The Editor

pubs such as the Kings Arms, Bedford Arms and the Flower Pot, so what are you waiting for? Cheers! Erica x PS: Look at our lovely new display solution (commonly known as a vase). We are introducing these in a limited number of locations around town. If you are a Clanger stockist and would like one for your shop/bar/cafe/pub/restaurant then get in touch and well bring one round. empty shops through pop-up activities. Its easy to forget how much we achieved with very little funding and a lot of goodwill, said Erica Roffe. To tell our story and to inspire other towns to create empty shop projects of their own is wonderful. The Towns Alive workshops are a great opportunity for us to promote Bedford to a wider audience and our enthusiasm for We Are Bedford and for our town is infectious. www.towns.org.uk www.wearebedford.co.uk @wearebedford and on Facebook

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

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

It is impossible to overstate the degree of friendship and welcome that is shown towards us by the Oberbrgermeister, his staff and the residents of the city. Normally there is an official welcome reception in the historic Alte Rathaus (old Town Hall) and a farewell party, with an opportunity to try the lovely beers brewed locally. Those who attend the towns Bamberg Springfest in May will be well aware of their beers. Lack of German fluency is no problem either as most have a good knowledge of English which they are keen to use whenever possible. A visit to Bamberg is certainly a rewarding experience. For further information go to: http://www.bedfordbamberg.org.uk/ www.bedford.gov.uk (town twinning)

Beautiful Bamberg

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

We Are Bedford may have ceased active delivery, but its spirit and legacy lives on.

UNIQUE BEDFORD The Happy Brewer, 15 Union Street, Bedford MK40 2SF
www.thehappybrewer.com tel: 01234 353856
Photos: Donnie Canning

RECIPE:

As this edition of The Bedford Clanger is The Beer Issue, where better to head for our monthly look at independent retailers, than The Happy Brewer.
his heaven for home brewers has been trading on Union Street since 1985. Three years ago, Stephen and Dawn Black took over the reins and the business is going from strength to strength. No longer the preserve of beardy beer buffs, home brewing and wine making is growing in popularity. From seasoned brewers to complete beginners, Stephen has a warm welcome for everyone. Bedford Clanger: What was your reason for getting involved in the business? Stephen Black: Dawn and I took on the shop as a hobby. We had been customers of the Happy Brewer for 22 years and are passionate about home brewing. Running the shop is great fun. If you come in here on a Saturday the shop is packed and the atmosphere is electric!

BC: Has the recession had had an impact on the home brewing sector? SB: The recession has improved our business. While people will always go to the pub, it is much cheaper to brew from a kit and many of our customers have converted their garages and sheds into bars. Years ago our average customer would have been a middle aged family man. Now we attract a lot more youngsters whose wages dont allow them to go to the pub. We also have a great many female customers.

Stephen Black: Smooth Hoperator

ELDERFLOWER CHAMPAGNE
Makes about 6 litres

INGREDIENTS

4 litres hot water 700g sugar Juice & zest of 4 lemons 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar Approx 15 elderflower heads in full bloom A pinch of dried yeast (you may not need this) Strong glass bottles

Method:

BC: How many different varieties do you sell? SB: 127 different beer styles and 90+ wine varieties. BC: When is your busiest time? SB: Once were into the country fruit season (from late June until November) the shop is rammed. We have customers coming in for advice, to exchange recipes; theres such a buzz around the place. You walk out [at the end of the day] with the biggest smile on your face! BC: Has the Happy Brewer embraced the internet? SB: We are on Facebook and Twitter and have a thriving online shop which accounts for 80% of the business. We have an online pay and collect service. Customers can select and pay for products on line and then come to the shop to pick them up. People prefer to meet face-to-face and were always on hand to offer advice (even to people who buy their home brew kits from Wilkos!). BC: Can you share your Elderflower Champagne recipe with our readers? SB: With pleasure! Just make sure you use strong glass bottles to avoid them exploding!

MUSIC A Decade of Sunday Sessions at Esquires

Originally a monthly event, Esquires Sunday sessions started out 10 years ago and the first band to play were Fun Ya Mum.
many bands wanting to play Dannys Bar that it was decided to hold it every week, said Esquires Pete Burridge who books and promotes the sessions. It really has gone from strength to strength and wed recommend you get there early to get a seat when Cherry Lee Mewis and her Blues Jems play on May 11th. On Sunday May 19th Esquires is holding a special Sunday Session in memory of their old friend Mr Music Sid Worth. Sids old band the A Band will

After a couple of months we had so

2

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

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

1.Put the hot water and sugar into a large sterilised container and stir until the sugar dissolves. Top up with cold water so you have 6 litres of liquid in total. 2.Add the lemon juice and zest, vinegar and the flower heads & stir gently. 3.Cover & leave to ferment in a cool, airy place for a couple of days. It its not becoming foamy & beginning to ferment add half a tsp of yeast. 4.Leave the mixture to ferment for a further 4 days. Strain the liquid through a straining bag and decant into sterilised strong glass bottles with Champagne stoppers or Grolsch style stoppers. 5.Seal and leave to ferment in the bottles for at least a week before serving chilled. The Champagne should keep in the bottles for several months. Store in a cool dry place.
Would you like to sponsor this column? The Bedford Clanger is read by around 10,000 people. If youd like to promote your business to our readers then contact Gemma Rogers on 07799067052 email:bedfordclangerads@gmail.com

Elderflower champagne. How chic!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

EVENTS
events right here on our doorstep? TEDxBedford organisers Kayte Judge and Andrew Nadin explain all. Basically we had this standing joke where we dared each other to apply..in the end, we did! Even then we thought wed be refused the license, because Bedford TEDx Venue: The Recital Hall the application process is quite tricky and why not here? TED encourages people to the rules are quite stringent, so we never dream big, and we think thats why people thought wed get it, said Kayte. When we are supporting the event. got the news wed been successful we were The theme of TEDxBedford is Evamazed and really excited but instantly eryday Radicals, Kayte continues: The scared, I mean, weve got to put on a show theme allows us to include a wide variety worthy of the TEDx brand.and now its of different speakers, weve got ex-punks, down to us. gardeners, artists, film makers, internet pioSaid Andrew: Luckily were not on neers and local heroes. Everyday Radicals our own, weve had some fabulous input is the common theme that unites them, and and offers of help from the design team at we hope the event will inspire people to Bonfire CI, from Jon Bestwick at DB Audio make the changes in their communities and and loads of volunteers who responded to organisations. our cry for help, so already Bedford locals The venue is the beautiful Recital Hall at are easily proving a match to the challenge. Bedford School and the date is the 15th of Weve had tonnes of people with suggesJune, so if you like the sound of this, take a tions and ideas about speakers, venues and look at www.TEDxBedford for full details performers its been great to receive so of the speakers and how to apply for tickets. much support. At the end of the day, BedGet your application in quick, its bound to ford deserves to have events as renowned be a sell-out and numbers are limited. See and prestigious as this they have them in you there! Cambridge, Milton Keyes and Oxford, so

MAY 2013

A TEDx event, the phenomenally successful event format that shares ideas, is to be staged in Bedford this summer.
worth spreading. The name TEDx, is an acronym of Technology, Entertainment and Design where the x stands for an independently organized event. If youve never heard of TED or TEDx you should head over to the website (www.ted.com) where youll find thousands of videos of incredibly inspiring talks from Richard Branson and Bill Gates to Philippe Starck and Isabel Allende. Its truly a global phenomenon garnering praise and admiration for its simplicity and effectiveness in communicating ideas, calling people to action and sharing inspiration. Its mandatory the talks last 18 minutes or less, so you can dip in and out of the videos without getting bored or bogged down from nuclear physics to community action, saving the planet to the art of street theatre. Its all there, intelligently told and easily accessible. So the big question is what the heck has Bedford done to get one of these global

13 St. Cuthberts Street, Bedford, MK40 3JB

Tel: 01234 210081 www.lordsandladiesbedford.co.uk @lordsandladies1

TEDx is a one day conference of ideas

We are a family run beauty salon located on St

Cuthberts Street, a short walk from the town centre.

We offer a wide range of beauty and wellbeing treatments to male and female clients such as Dermalogica facials and body treatments, massage, waxing, Brazilians, threading, gel manicures and pedicures, eyelash extensions and much more. We are open seven days a week and until 9pm
on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

We are excited to be launching a new

treatment in May Hot Lava Shell massage. During this treatment we use hot tiger clam shells to massage your muscles easing any tension and stress away. You will be left feeling totally relaxed, with a sense of balance to the body and mind. Our full body Lava Shell Massage is available at the introductory price of 42 for the month of May (normal price 50).
Daily Express, The Lava Shell Massage: The heat and smoothness of the shells, combined with the massage strokes, induced a feeling of calm and relaxation. I didnt want to leave the room.

Riding for the Disabled at The Elisabeth Curtis Centre

The Elisabeth Curtis Centre, Riding for the Disabled in Bromham, has been providing mental and physical therapy for disabled people of all ages for over 30 years. During that time, getting to know our ponies has been a life changing experience for many people. It is great for confidence building and gives a huge amount of exercise without the riders realising it. They think it is just great fun. We dont claim to work miracles but we think we have come close a few times. Autistic children often suffer from night terrors. Their families are delighted to discover that their children sleep through the night when they have been riding. Imagine the delight of one mother who had been told her daughter may never speak, when one of our instructors remarked, Your daughters speech is coming on. This young lady had never spoken, but soon started talking to her pony and easily
slipped into talking about the pony to other people. The Centre is funded largely by donations, with riders being charged a nominal fee. We receive no government funding. We employ two part-time grooms, but all other work at the Centre is done by volunteers. They groom and tack up the ponies before each riding session and lead them or walk alongside a rider during lessons. Each session is supervised by an experienced, qualified instructor who also organises training for new volunteers. Some of our volunteers also do maintenance work and gardening. Others work

SOCIETY

on the admin side. Our volunteers range in age from 14 to 80. Anyone can apply to be a volunteer, so please go to our website to find out more about us: www.elisabethcurtiscentre.co.uk specifically selected to benefit existing businesses as well as start-ups. Said Greg Warwick of Jeeves barbershop and vice chair of the Town Team: This is a great opportunity for us to work together to enhance Bedford. Bedford High Street is like a department store, with each different shop forming a part of the bigger picture. We need to work together as a community to improve the town centre, and the Town Team is working hard to achieve this.

BUSINESS FREE BUSINESS COURSES IN MAY & JUNE

As we reported last month, Bedfords Portas Pilot Town Team has devoted 13,000 of its 51,000 budget to a series of training sessions that are open to all town centre businesses. The courses aim to enhance the customer experience in Bedford, be it online or on the High Street and we would urge all relevant businesses to seize this free development opportunity. Delivered locally, the courses will cover a wide range of topics from finance and business plans to creating a website; tweeting to understanding profit and loss; preparing shop window displays to marketing and selling techniques. The courses have been

Roll up, roll up and tell your story to the rest of the world!

#citizenbedford is a celebration of

the power of citizen journalism and a platform for anyone in our town to tell the Any town centre business wanting to sign up for courses should contact Sian Hughes at Bedford Borough Council on Sian.Hughes@bedford.gov.uk for detailed information and time table. A refundable deposit may be charged to secure attendance.

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

See our interview with Greg on the #citizenbedford website : www.citizenbedford.com Dates: May 15th Social Media June 21st Shop Window Display

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

THE BEER ISSUE PUB CHAT
At The Clanger we love pubs, and Bedfords got some great ones to choose from.
e asked our Facebook friends about their favourites and heres what they had to say. Why not give them all a try (just maybe not all in one go!) Jo Midgley: The Wellington for choice of beer, The Devvy for feeling like a proper pub again and for a superb landlord! The Ship for old times sake!!! Alice Smith: Love the new stamp wallpaper at The Three Cups - and it has a nice atmosphere, the Devvy cos its so friendly, and The Bedford Arms is great! John Newbury :The Castle, The Flower Pot, The Kings Arms all have great live bands and atmosphere. Village Pubs: The Polhill Arms Renhold,The Three Fishes Turvey, The Greyhound Haynes, The Foxs Head, The Bull in Harrold. Ian McEwen: Burnaby Arms a recent improver (related team to the Devvy), excellent jazz at the Bedford Arms, Cricketers is friendly, convenient and usually a good choice of real ale. the month), pool teams, table football and dont make pubs like that no more, and they pinball plus a nice little garden when the closed all the ones that were... suns out and now hot pies too! Love the live music and all the Caryl Jones: Kings Arms, Flower Pot charity events weve and Ship for the people, Noodle likes the joined in; winning the atmosphere, music and for River Festival raft race, food in the sitting outside when the sun the Santa Run, Moshines. The Park has a lovely Embankment! vember, Charity days, garden / patio area too. cheese and wine and cocktail nights and all the others....plus the Emily Pool: The Devonshire longest running landlord in Bedford! See Arms - every time! Cant beat convenience you there tonight for live music, Saturday and they do a lovely Malbec! for the Grand National and the sweepstake and Monday for more live music before the Erica Roffe: The Clanger Crawl. Its got gig at the Corn Exchange! (p.s. The Bedford a good ring to it! David Gallagher, fancy Arms is pretty good too!!) organising it? David Gallagher :The Devonshire Arms, The Cricketers, Bedford Arms, Wellington, Three Cups - Bedfords Famous Five (of Pubs!) David Baxter: Welly for the selection of beer, Cricketers for the rugby and The Devvy because its virtually next door to me! Tim Barron: The Kent Arms used to have the best lock-ins when Jon was in charge. Always been an important part of Bedford Life. Heralds back to Bedford being a place of trade and commerce for local agriculture. They reckon all the horses knew the way home as the farmers were too p*ssed. Save our drinking culture! Adam Boreham: The Devonshire Arms and the Embankment as they let us in with the crazy dogs, Harley likes the fire in the Devvy and Noodle likes the food in the Embankment! Sonja Short :The Bear, its moved with the times but still remains as it always has been, a real pub, with a decent jukebox, all welcome and a landlord with an amazing (?) shirt collection. Recently been introduced to the Devonshire Arms, another real pub, with a good atmosphere and a warm fire. Lisa Bateson :Welly is my local (lots of beer choice, including Belgian plus lovely bar staff). Recently ventured out to the Devvy - beer was great and made to feel very welcome. Will be going back to try their pies! by Bill & Wendy Roffe

MAY 2013 Dogfish Head & Charles Wells Mash Up

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

flavoured with Syrah grapes; tried a 10% beer but didnt attempt the 18%, although some people did (Did they make it home? Ed). Two days later we were back at the Devonshire for the presentation of North Beds. CAMRA Pub of the Year award. Two other awards were made by North Beds. CAMRA to local pubs. The Bedford Arms in Souldrop was named Country Pub of the year and the Burnaby Arms in Stanley Street the Most Improved Pub of the year.

PROST! BEDFORD BAMBERG SPRING FEST RETURNS

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

Olivia Odonoghue: The Bear [cos of Juke Box, darkness and memories], Bedford Arms [a nice, tidy pub], Burnaby Arms [friendly, cosy boozer],The Mill e th l al on ck They re Hotel [ again, juke ay w e th box and fact that ew kn es hors Harry is a legend!]. s er rm fa e home as th Does Dannys Bar . Save of a Sunday avo were too p*ssed culture! count as a pub?

our drinking

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

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

Don Bosco Brass Band all within the atmosphere of a traditional German beirkeller. Councillor Doug McMurdo said: Spring Fest is one of the most popular events on the Corn Exchange calendar, and always attracts hundreds of people throughout the weekend. Last year well over 4,000 pints were sold. Spring Fest started back in 2008 at Bedford Corn Exchange on behalf of Bedford Borough Council, to highlight Bedfords twinning with Bamberg both of which are famous for their beer brewing. Entry is free. Friday 10th Saturday 11th May at Bedford Corn Exchange 12noon til midnight.

Whats brewing locally

Now in their sixth year of brewing, White Park Brewery is tucked away on a farm site just outside the village of Cranfield.
he name originates from the owners love of rare breed cattle, White Park being an ancient Druid variety. The team are Alan Kelly - the director, his brother, Peter - the head brewer, Nicole - sales, Val - admin and Lloyd - in house designer and deliveries. Driver Lloyd has many tales to tell of his deliveries but is hesitant to share them... Peter the brewer has the fun of creating new recipes, part of the key being blending the right combinations and varieties of hops and malts. Its surely a kind of alchemy, especially as the outcome is tasty ale. Naming the ales is also fun, with Alans auntie proving to be a bit of a name generator. The beers are shipped out in nine gallon casks (firkins) as well as bottles, into various venues and destinations from the Three Cups pub and Blue Glass wine merchants in Bedford, to places further afield, including London and even the Fens. There are now a total of 14 beers in their portfolio, including upcoming brew Mayflower Mild a mild, traditionally brewed in May, plus the latest beer, That One a mischievously named beer, that could cause a little confusion at the bar! Its a tasty

White Hart Brewery

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

Don Brosco Brass Band

Inside Wells & Youngs Brewery

From Wednesday 1st May to Monday 6th May, the White Horse on Newnham Avenue will host its annual May Beer Festival.

Featuring up to 20 ales from seven local breweries (including White Park) there will also be live music, dancing, charity stalls & a bouncy castle each afternoon on the Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the festival, so why not join Nigel & Sue to celebrate? On Saturday 4th May Spacegoat will be appearing from 9pm as part of the festivities.

hats the equivalent of 222 million pints which are enjoyed by ale lovers all over the world. Flying the flag for Bedford, Wells & Youngs distributes its beers to an impressive 33 different countries including Canada, Russia, the USA and countries across Europe and every single drop starts its journey in Queens Park. Established on Horne Lane in 1875, the brewery expanded rapidly over the years and as the Wells family grew, so did the

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

The White Horse 7th Annual Beer & Talent Festival

Behind the Scenes at the Brewery Bedfords finest export

The team at Wells & Youngs brew and bottle more than 1.26 hectolitres of their high-quality ales every year.
business. By the 1970s the brewery operations had outgrown the Horne Lane site and a new, larger brewery with state-of-the-art equipment was built in 1976 on the Queens Park site that it still occupies today. The brewery has always been a family business and in keeping with this tradition it is now headed up by Paul Wells, Charles great grandson. Alongside brewing, the company has also established an estate of more than 200 Charles Wells pubs in the UK as well as in Paris, Toulouse, Montpellier, Bordeaux and Lyon in France. As well as having an award-winning portfolio of beers - including national favourites Bombardier, Youngs Bitter, Courage Directors and Bedfords much-loved Eagle - Charles Wells was named Pub Company of the Year. Only the very best ingredients go into

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

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

MAY 2013
In association with

THE
One of the great British punk pop bands play their debut Bedford show at the Corn Exchange this month.

L I ST I N G
Getting Out and About in Bedford This MAY
Bedford Borough Councils Premier Entertainment Venue

MUSIC The Pad Presents.. BUZZCOCKS + The Scruff Live at Bedford Corn Exchange - Friday 17th May 2013
Nowadays, Boredom Boltons Finest: Buzzcocks: and Promises and live on stage they remain as vibrant and hungry as ever before with their legendary high octane performances. Support for the night comes from one of Bedfords hottest young new bands handpicked by the band and ourselves to support - THE SCRUFF. Doors open at 7.30pm, the first band takes to the stage at Online ticket options include www.bedford8pm. cornexchange.co.uk or www.wegottickets. com or here: http://www.seetickets.com/ Tickets are on sale in advance priced 18 Event/BUZZCOCKS/Bedford-Cornand can be bought in person from The Exchange/688021 Corn Exchange Box Office (now based in the Tourist Information Centre) and FREE AFTERSHOW PARTY WITH from Luscious Juice Bar in Lime Street YOUR TICKET AT THE PAD (no booking fee). NIGHTCLUB, 2 LURKE ST, BEDFORD released in aid of the excellent WarChild charity. A cause to which the band have been committed since it started in 1995. The inaugural WarChild album features their song Searchlights and they see the charity as a way to support the innocent victims of conflict. Originally a track on their Static on the Airwaves album from last year, the single has also been a good excuse to collaborate with Sussex folk legends The Copper Family, who have harmonised for generations, and also two relative newcomers: banjo player Dan Walsh and accordion- squeezer Shona Kipling. The Levellers describe them both as young and fabulous, and clips on youtube certainly bear this out The tour finishes in late August at the talent and two performers who enjoy what they do. Kris Wilkinson Hughes is an American singer/songwriter who learned her writing craft in the deep south and co-writing with The Levellers

The Pad Presents.. RDGLDGRN / Karl Phillips & The Midnight Ramblers / Zedo / Gingerbread men Thursday 16th May 2013 Bedford Esquires
A bit of a coup for The Pad Presents team this month as hotly tipped indie hip hop band RDGLDGRN visit them at Esquires for the US bands only non-city date on their first UK tour.
ot only did the sticksmith legend Dave Grohl play drums on the entire album, recorded at the world famous Sound City Studios, but NERDs Pharrell Williams liked them so much he co-wrote part of the album too. Famous admirers apart, within 3 weeks of uploading debut single I Love Lamp on YouTube, it had hit over 400,000 hits and had been featured as the most requested track on MTV - the first time ever for a new artist. Since then Radio 1 and the British press have been all over the band, with second single Million Fans being A-listed and the band performing on Jimmy Kimmel Live back in the US. Comprising of three members who identify as Red, Gold, and Green, RDGLDGRN began making music in their basement studio, drawing from a vast and almost ironically diverse pool of influences like Chuck Brown, Vampire Weekend, Outkast, The Neptunes and Bad Brains. In what many might consider a wildly ambitious, even impossible, trick to pull off, RDGLDGRN have effortlessly managed to combine genres of music to create something new, something all their own, and something that has the music industry buzzing with excitement. Playing only a select handful of showcase UK dates before setting off on the acclaimed Vans Warped Tour in June 2013, this is a chance to see the band before they hit much, much bigger stages. Tickets are 7.50 and on sale now: Dannys Bar, Esquires, Bedford Luscious Juice Bar, 4 Lime St, Bedford http://www.seetickets.com/Event/RDGLDGRN/Bedford-Esquires/699746 Doors open 7.30pm THIS IS A 14+ SHOW, UNDER 16s to be accompanied by an over 18 Irritable vowels?: RDGLDGRN

Buzzcocks formed in Bolton in 1976, led

by singer-songwriter-guitarist Pete Shelly and singer-songwriter-guitarist Steve Diggle. The bands raw sound energized the nations stagnated youth in 1976 and they have left us with some classic three minute punk pop tunes that remain timeless to this day. The band made unique history by releasing their debut Spiral Scratch EP on their own label, something that was unknown at the time, and started a D.I.Y ethic amongst Indie bands that is still evident with new artists of today. Buzzcocks have released some unforgettable songs such as Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldntve), Orgasm Addict, What Do I Get, Everybodys Happy

Levellers Playing Fields

Festival favourites The Levellers play Bedford Corn Exchange on June 13th slap-bang in the middle of their current tour/summer holiday.
aving been on the road since early May by this point, the Bedford gig will double as a warm up for an appearance at the Isle of Wight the following night; the band should be on top form when they swing into town. Now in their 25th year, the band began in Brighton and soon established themselves as a must-see on the burgeoning festival circuit . In fact, the popularity of festivals and their place as a summer tradition for many thousands of people is in no small part due to the Levellers unending appetite for playing live. They are a fixture on the bill almost everywhere, and it would be a safe bet to say they have played all the major European festivals several times over. If they are promoting anything its the Recruiting Sergeant EP which has been

Levellers very own Beautiful Days festival. Set in the grounds of Escott Park in Devon, the festival regularly receives slaps on the back and hearty handshakes for exemplary festival etiquette and organisation. Which is a polite way of saying they have good toilets. The fun unfolds over the classic 3-day festival weekend and this year includes Primal Scream, Arrested Development and Roy Harper amongst many others. The Levellers believe their own festival experience and respect for their fans sets this one apart from the flock, and they know how to throw a good party. So, if youre looking for festival vibes, but cant commit to 3-days of confusion and wellies, or your limbering up for exactly that, this is the gig for you.

Cicero Buck at the Burnaby However and whenever you hear them you know youre listening to songwriting

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

Lloyd Lugsden put some Qs to the band: Youre from DC, any local bands an influence? Mambo Sauce, Soja, Backyard Band What percent hip hop, what percent rock? %50, %50 What tunes did you grow up to? MC Hammer - Cant Touch This, Michael Jackson Thriller, The Beatles - Hey Jude, Chicago Bulls Entrance Music Fans of any UK music? Alot...The Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Gorillaz, Dizee Rascal, KANO, The Streets , Arctic Monkeys , Radiohead, Led Zepplin, The Sex Pistols, so many more... The name. An abbreviation but where did the colour thing come from? We as a group of friends all go by COLORs this is before the band and its how we came up with the band name basically its a way to simplify our individuality and identities. Self Actualized Personas. Favourite dish to cook? Steak rice, chicken rice, sauted spinach, hamburgers & nacho chips. Fave other current artists? Tame Impala, Kendrick Lamar, The Drums, Purity Ring, and Juicy J I went to DC once and got mistaken for an Aussie. Im English. Whats your favourite thing in the Smithsonian? LOL! The AWEIWEI exhibit and movie was amazing but I think its gone now. Dave Grohl drummed on the album, was he as ridiculously nice as he seems? Yes. Got the Pharrel touch too, love him more since watching Despicable Me film; was he a ridiculously nice chap too? Humble. Hardworking. Inspirational. What do you like about the uk? FOOTBALL FOOTBALL and hopefully the women we never been tho lol What dont you like about the UK? The fact that we never been. What took us so long to be invited! What can Bedford expect from your show? Energy and most of all pure fun we love what we do.

Another superb month of music in Bedford.

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

MAY 2013
See 7th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk The Biggest Jam Night in Town Huge open mic night at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Psychic & Spiritual Development Group Learn and explore psychic and spiritual subjects with Elizabeth Drake. 7-9.30pm at Brickhill Community Centre. 10. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk Tickets 16, 8pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Mojo with Dave King Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732 Obsessive Compulsive + Filthy Visuals Live music on the main stage at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires. com Assassins See 7th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk Fat Lads Disco Hosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500 Loaded Clubnight @ The Pad Indie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www. facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclub

THE
In association with

L I ST I N G
Showing 80s classic, Top Gun. Comfy sofas set up cinema style, coffee, cakes plus sweet and salty popcorn. Free entry. 7.30pm for 8.00pm start. Ground Floor Coffee Shop, Kings House, 245 Ampthill Road, Bedford. Tel: 07561 340593 Email: events@groundfloorcoffee.co.uk www.groundfloorcoffee.co.uk Bedford Art Society Meeting Adrian Barlow, historian and writer, gives a talk for the Bedford Art Society comparing the architecture of Oxford and Cambridge. 7.30pm start, free for members, 5 for visitors at Putnoe Heights Church. Tel: 01234 307210 www.bedsartsociety.co.uk Devils Mojo Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732 Fall Against Fate + Ghost of Gabrielle Live music on the main stage at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires. com Awaken Theatre presents A Quiet Life by Stephen Bean University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. Karaoke with Diamond Fire 8pm, The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk Exec Club Karaoke 9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

Monday 6th May

236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk

Bedford Borough Councils Premier Entertainment Venue Wednesday 1st May

The White Horse 7th Annual Beer & Talent Festival Up to 20 Ales from 7 local breweries available plus live music, dance, charity stalls & bouncy castle. Open each afternoon until Mon 6th May. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk BOMBSYTEtheatre presents Recalculating University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. Beer Tasting Club Tasting a range of ales and discussing their merits. Please register your interest with Bev. From 8pm, The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Bedford Rock Choir The UKs largest, amateur contemporary choir. No scary auditions and no need to read music or have any experience. Try a session for free. Tickets 100 per term, 8pm start at The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Chinese State Circus Elaborate, explosive and highly choreographed plus the more delicate and beautiful side of Chinese tradition with plate spinning, parasol juggling and the legendary Bicycle Act. Starts at 7.30pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Prebend Day Centre Fundraising Quiz Night 5pp including ploughmans supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk Dinner Swan Theatre Company present this comedy thriller from Moira Buffini. Hostess Paige is celebrating the publication of her husbands best seller. Then the arrival of Mike, marooned in the foggy lane after crashing his van, provides an unexpected addition to the evenings entertainment. From 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk The Biggest Jam Night in Town Huge open mic night at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Reiki Drum Meditation Session Relax to the constant beat of the drum in this session with Elizabeth Drake at The Friends Meeting House, Lansdowne Road, Bedford. 6.45pm-8.30pm. 7. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk

Saturday 4th May

Thursday 2nd May

Creative Bedfordshire Network Meeting Meet other creative professionals from the area. Each meeting has a spotlight on a different area of the creative industries. Present your own activities to the group too. 7-9pm, free entry, The Ent Shed, Castle Road, Bedford. www.bedfordcreativearts.org.uk/index.php/events info@ bedfordcreativearts.org.uk Pointless Dramas presents Girls with Class University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. Dinner See 1st May for details. From 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk Americana @ Andaluz Danni Nicholls presents the best from local, national and international artists. Doors open at 6pm for drinks and tapas. Music starts at 8pm at Andaluz Caf on Castle Road. Tel 07913 342654 Speedshot + Hazard + Liam Burke Live music in Holy Molys, Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Traditional Music Session Join in this monthly folk jam, 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Kellys Poker Night Texas Holdem poker game from 7.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Jam Night with Mat Roberts Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732

Bedford Crafts, Produce & Cuppa Browse Bedfordian handmade items and locally produced foods. Enjoy a cuppa (your first is free!) and a piece of cake at Church Lane Community Centre (opposite Aldi) every first Saturday of the month, 9am-2pm. contact@ loveofcupcakes.co.uk www.bedford.gov.uk/community_ and_living/community_centres West End Wendies Theatre Workshops Take part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www.westendwendies.com Twisted Reflections presents Baba Yaga University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. X Fest at Santa Pod An extreme sports festival for skateboarders, BMX bikers and scooter fans. There be displays, live music, funfair, jet cars and a live action arena including monster trucks and freestyle motocross. Opens 8am, tickets 6.60-13. Santa Pod Raceway, Airfield Road, Wellingborough. Tel: 01234 782828 www.xfest.co.uk www.santapod.com Magic Music Group All Dayer Live music all day at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Shamanic Yoga & Reiki Drum Workshop 12.15-3.45pm at The Friends Meeting House, Landsdowne Road. 30. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk Riff 3 Piece Cover Band playing from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732 VE Day Anniversary Celebration An evening of live 1940s music, as well as a DJ. There will be dance lessons, a buffet, bar and charity raffle. Tickets 10, all proceeds to The Veterans Charity. 1940s dress is keenly encouraged but not mandatory. From 7pm. The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk www.veteranscharity.org.uk Spacegoat Live music from 9pm at The White Horse Beer Festival, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk Fat Lads Disco Hosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500 Loaded Clubnight @ The Pad Indie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 www.facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclub

Pub Bike Tour Exploring several pubs by bicycle in the Bedford area. 12 noon, 5 per person in advance, incl BBQ, starting and ending at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk X Fest at Santa Pod See 4th May. www.xfest.co.uk www.santapod.com Wilden May Day Fayre Lots of entertainment, refreshments, homemade items, plants and toys. The Bedford Pipe Band will march down Wilden High Street at 1pm, followed by Maypole dancing and the crowning of the May Queen and King. Free parking. The Victoria Arms Pub is hosting a Beer and Cider Festival and tractor display during the day and an evening buffet. Wilden Village Hall, High Street, Wilden, Bedford. Mercy in Action Summer Fte Lovely things to buy and eat! There will be stalls selling homemade vintage crafts, tea and cake provided by The Cakestand and Crumb in Ampthill, as well as activities for children such as face painting and lucky dips. All profits will go to street childrens projects in the Philippines. 10.30am-4pm, Ampthill Baptist Church. f.davidge@ mercyinaction.org.uk www.mercyinaction.org.uk/getinvolved/fundraising/ International Workers Day Celebration May Day 2013 Bedford Trades Council host this event with The Banner Theatre Company performing their cabaret, Fighting The Cuts. There will be speakers plus political, trade union, community and stalls & exhibitions. Free entry, 1pm in the Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Tonys General Knowledge Quiz The Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk Big Band Xtra Jam Nite Hosted by local singer/songwriter Mat Roberts, 7.30pm til late. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Thursday 9th May

Music at Lunchtime A chance to enjoy a diverse selection of works in beautiful surroundings in the Recital Hall of Bedfords Music School. 1pm start, free admission. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk/music-lunchtime-summer-2013 Piano Recital Christina McMaster, post-graduate student at the Royal Academy of Music, will be giving a piano recital in the Music School Recital Hall. 7.30pm, free admission. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 07773 173344 heatherturnham@yahoo.co.uk www.bedfordschool.org.uk/christina-mcmaster-2013 The Bedford Arms Book Club The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Road. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk The Darling Mundaring Live music in Holy Molys, Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Charity Bingo Night Arranged with Scots Society of St Andrew, Bedford. Tickets for supper (with chips) and 6 games 8 at The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk Julian Clary - Position Vacant: Apply Within Julian Clary is looking for love and hes not leaving town empty handed. Master of camp and Celebrity Big Brother Winner, he is scouring the land in search of love. Tickets 20, 8pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Assassins See 7th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk Jam Night with Mat Roberts Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732

Sunday 12th May

Friday 10th May

Tuesday 7th May

Sunday 5th May

Friday 3rd May

Vintage Movie Night

Houghton Conquest Art Exhibition & Victorian Tearoom An exhibition and sale of over 80 pictures and photographs, set up in the style of a Victorian tearoom. Refreshments and homemade cakes will be available. Special halfprice membership for 10. 10am-4pm, Houghton Conquest Village Hall. Tel Mike Padian: 01234 740365 Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk X Fest at Santa Pod See 4th May. www.xfest.co.uk www.santapod.com Cutting Out Live music from 4pm in the bar at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Mojo Live music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk An Evening of Living Poetry Join Swan Theatre Company at the Eagle Gallery in for a fabulous evening of Living Poetry, featuring fantastic poems by Carol Anne Duffy, Andrew Motion, and many others. 7.30pm, Castle Road, Bedford. www.theplacebedford.org.uk Jons Music Quiz Up to 300 prize money! The Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk White Horse Quiz Night Teams of up to 6, 8.30pm, 1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk Power Animal Meditation Workshop Connect with your animal guides through meditation with Elizabeth Drake.11-2.00pm, Bedford. 30. Tel: 07816

Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPB Tuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise 3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge Bedford Floral Art Society Meeting Featuring Around the World - a demonstration by Lesley Sturdy. 7pm for 7.30pm start. Free for members, visitors 5. The Addison Centre, Kempston. www.bedfordfloralartsociety.co.uk Beechwood Park Prep School Composition Competition Adjudicated by Julie Edwards, Director of Music, Beechwood Park Prep School. 4.30pm, free admission.: Erskine May Hall, Bedford School. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk Reiki Share Give and receive healing with Elizabeth Drake, 7.45-10pm at The Friends Meeting House, Landsdowne Road, Bedford. 5. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk Tim Barrons Ukulele Lessons If youd like to learn a musical instrument, this is the easiest and most fun to pick up. Join Tim from the Ouse Valley Singles Club band at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Assassins Fysh 2 Fry present a story about 9 individuals who have attempted to assassinate the President of the United States. The assassins return in 1963 to convince Lee Harvey Oswald to shoot President Kennedy. 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk Philharmonia Orchestra A London Symphony imagines the chimes of Westminster and the bustle of the East End, as well as exploring the grimmer side of early twentieth-century city life. Tickets 12-33, 7.30pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Karaoke & Cocktails Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com The Old Geezer Band Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington Arms, Wellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033 White Horse Quiz Night Teams of up to 6, 8.30pm, 1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Bedford : Bamberg Spring Fest 2013 Over 40 different German beers, wines, schnapps and authentic German BBQ. Entertainment provided by Don Bosco from Bamberg. 12 noon to midnight, Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. For more information Tel: 01234 718044 cornexchange@bedford. gov.uk www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk Beechwood Park Prep School Concert An informal concert performed by Beechwood Park Prep School students. 4.30pm, free admission, Erskine May Hall, Bedford School. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys Dazzling musicianship, riveting stage performances, this has to be the Worlds greatest swing band. Tickets 15, 8pm in the Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@ bedford.gov.uk Tina Turner Tribute Night 39.50 including 3 course meal and half bottle of wine. Other packages include overnight stay and fireworks. Wyboston Lakes, Great North Road, Wyboston, Beds. Tel: 0333 7007 667 (option 4) quoting POS celebrations@wybostonlakes.co.uk www.wybostonlakes.co.uk/social-events Hurricane Fly Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732 PVE Live music in the bar, Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Assassins See 7th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk Handmade Dances - an evening of new dance works University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. Vinyl Revival Night Dust off those LPs & singles and come to play them at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd from 8pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Exec Club Karaoke 9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

School Confirmation A wonderful series of free choral services in the School Chapel every Sunday, either morning or evening, to which members of the public are most welcome. More dates and times are on the website. Bedford School Chapel. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk/choralsummer-2013 Brass Ensemble Charity Concert 2pm start, free admission. Bromham House, Bedford School. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk/ art-music-drama Red Cross Open Garden A four-acre garden, a mixture of formal gardens with parkland, including mature trees and flowering shrubs, with one of the highest view points in the county, overlooking Ampthill. Teas, homemade cakes and plants available. 1.30-5pm, 4 entry, Great Farm House, Maulden, situated off the Silsoe Road, between the A507 and Clophill Road. Tel: 01582 589083 samexheta@redcross.org.uk www.redcross.org.uk Elstow Village May Festival See the crowning of the May Queen and enjoy cakes, raffle and charity stalls at Elstow Village Green. 12 noon-3pm, free admission. Vintage Tea Party for St Johns Hospice Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea of sandwiches, tea and cakes in the hall at St. Johns Hospice. Tickets 7.50. St Johns Hospice, Moggerhanger. Tel: 01767 642421 Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Cherry Lee Mewis Live music from 4pm in the bar at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires. com Thr3e Live music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Jons Music Quiz Up to 300 prize money! The Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk White Horse Quiz Night Teams of up to 6, 8.30pm, 1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford. co.uk

Monday 13th May

Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Tonys General Knowledge Quiz The Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk Open Mic Night Hosted by local singer/songwriter Matt Roberts, 8.30pm til close. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk Monday Morning Guided Meditation Session Go on a healing guided journey to peacefulness with Elizabeth Drake. 10.30-1130am, Bedford, 5. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk

Tuesday 14th May

Saturday 11th May

Wednesday 8th May

Tea Dance A pleasant afternoon in elegant surroundings. Ballroom, Latin American, Sequence Dances, Party Dances & Old Time. Price includes refreshments. Tickets 3.50 (advance), 4.00 (on the day), starts 2.00pm. Main Auditorium & Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Stitch n Bitch Bring any crafty project to The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd, 7.30pm. beverlyjoburridge@gmail.com Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Bedford Rock Choir See 1st May for details. The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Red Cross Fundraising Quiz Night 5pp including ploughmans supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk Assassins

West End Wendies Theatre Workshops Take part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www. westendwendies.com Handmade Dances - an evening of new dance works See 10th May. Tel:08003285334 to book. Bedford : Bamberg Spring Fest 2013 See Fri 10th. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk Nursery Plant Sale Keen prices and good advice at Pavenham Village Hall. There will also be a plant crche, refreshments, a tombola and a childrens playground in aid of the Friends of St Peters. 10.30am-2.30pm, free parking, 1.20 entry. debby_horsman@hotmail.com Bedford Amateur Regatta Maintaining its position as the largest single-day river regatta in the country, Bedford Embankment brings competitive rowing to the River Great Ouse in Bedford. Races every two minutes for fours and eights across all categories from J14 upwards including novice and elite. Panacea Museum & Gardens Open Day Find out about the history of this unique religious society that existed until recently in Bedford. View The Members Chapel and clock tower, the Founders House, an exhibition at Castleside and the Panacea gardens. Free admission, 10.30am-4.30pm. The Panacea Museum, 9 Newnham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 353178 museum@panacea-society.org GA GA - A Tribute to Queen Performed by a multi-award winning band from numerous Queen Conventions and TV appearances. A host of massive Queen songs played like they were meant to be.

Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPB Tuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise 3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge The Merchant of Venice Bedford Dramatic Club set the play in 1930s Italy. A comedy and love story with a dark side of anti-Semitism. 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk. Running until the 18th. Karaoke & Cocktails Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com The Old Geezer Band Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington Arms, Wellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033 White Horse Quiz Night Teams of up to 6, 8.30pm, 1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Wednesday 15th May

Beer Tasting Club Tasting a range of bottled ales and discussing their merits. Please register your interest with Bev. From 8pm, The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Midnight Walk A women-only 10 mile sponsored walk around Bedford in aid of Sue Ryder Care, starting and finishing at Bedford International Athletics Stadium. 15 registration fee. www. suerydercare.org/midnightwalks Bedford Rock Choir The UKs largest, amateur contemporary choir. No scary auditions and no need to read music or have any experience. Try a session for free. Tickets 100 per term, 8pm start at The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk

Bedford Corn Exchange Box office: 01234 269519 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

Bromham Green WI Fundraising Quiz Night 5pp including ploughmans supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www. whitehorsebedford.co.uk The Merchant of Venice See 14th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk. The Biggest Jam Night in Town Huge open mic night at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Reiki Drum Meditation Session Relax to the constant beat of the drum in this session with Elizabeth Drake at The Friends Meeting House, Lansdowne Road, Bedford. 6.45pm-8.30pm. 7. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk The Trench From the team behind The Terrible Infants and Ernest and the Pale Moon, comes a new play inspired by the true story of a miner who became entombed in a tunnel during the first World war. Tickets 8-10.00, 7.30pm, Bedford Theatre, Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Box Office: 01234 269519 www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk Tie One On Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732 Spirit Guide Workshop Connect and work with your spirit guides with Elizabeth Drake, 10am-4.30pm, Bedford. 45. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk All Star Zero Live music from 9pm at The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk Fat Lads Disco Hosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500 Loaded Clubnight @ The Pad Indie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www. facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclub Bedford Rock Choir See May 1st. The Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Tel: 01252 714276 www.rockchoir.com cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Carers in Bedfordshire Fundraising Quiz Night 5pp including ploughmans supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www. whitehorsebedford.co.uk The Biggest Jam Night in Town Huge open mic night at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com

MAY 2013

Thursday 23rd May

Thursday 16th May

Ouse Muse - Poetry & Spoken Word Open Mic Haiku to hip-hop or Herrick to Hegley, we welcome all performers and voices. From 8pm in the cellar bar at Harpurs, 46-48 Tavistock St, Bedford. 2 for readers, 3 for just listening. Sign up on the door or contact ian.mcewen@ ntlworld.com Music at Lunchtime A chance to enjoy a diverse selection of works in beautiful surroundings in the Recital Hall of Bedfords Music School. 1pm start, free admission. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk/music-lunchtime-summer-2013 RDGLDGRN Live music on the main stage at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires. com Juicebox showcase Four new bands in the bar at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Skeptics in the Pub - Exploring the solar system: Humans beyond Earth OU research student Adam Stevens looks at the potential for humanity to spread beyond our own planet, examining the slightly more sci-fi aspects of human space flight and how realistic they might be. Free admission, from 7pm at The White Horse, Newnham Ave, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk The Merchant of Venice See 14th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk. Making Performance - seven short shows, a different programme every night University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. Jam Night with Mat Roberts Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732

Sunday 19th May

Friday 17th May

The Bedford Auction Centre Valuation Day The centres team of valuers can advise on all antique or collectable items. Entries are invited for the specialist sales of antiques, jewellery, 20th century design, rock & pop and memories of childhood. 10am-4pm at the Bedford Auction Centre. Tel: 01234 266366 www.peacockauction.co.uk Making Performance - seven short shows, a different programme every night University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. Gypsy An amateur musical production based on the book by Arthur Laurents in aid of The Bedford Hospital Charity A & E for Children. 7.30pm start, tickets 12.50 (incl a free glass of wine). Sharnbrook Mill Theatre. Tel: 01234 356051 brijin.hanling@yahoo.co.uk Buzzcocks & Guests This punk rock band, led by Pete Shelly and Steve Diggle energized the nations stagnated youth in 1976 and they have left us with some punk pop tunes. Doors 7.30pm, tickets 18, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@ bedford.gov.uk Puretone Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732 Los The Plot Live music in the bar at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com The Merchant of Venice See 14th May. www.theplacebedford.org.uk. Karaoke with Diamond Fire 8pm, The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk Exec Club Karaoke 9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Holy Communion A wonderful series of free choral services in the School Chapel every Sunday, either morning or evening, to which members of the public are most welcome. More dates and times are on the website. Bedford School Chapel. Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 362200 www.bedfordschool.org.uk/choralsummer-2013 Red Cross Open Garden This five-acre garden has been beautifully restored and modernised . Explore the sunken and parterre gardens and wild walk areas. Teas, home-made cakes and plants are available. All proceeds to local and national Red Cross services. Open 1.30-5pm, 4 entry at Tofte Manor, near Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire. Tel: 01582 589083 samexheta@redcross.org.uk The A Band Live music from 4pm in the bar at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires. com Barely Alive Live music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Fodens Brass Band in Concert A rare chance to hear one of the best brass bands in the world. Tickets 12, 7pm, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Up to 300 prize money! The Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford. co.uk White Horse Quiz Night Teams of up to 6, 8.30pm, 1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford. co.uk

Shuttleworth College Open Day 5-8pm. For more information and to pre-register visit www.shuttleworth.ac.uk/eventsor call 01767 626222 Music at Lunchtime at Bedford Music School See 9th May. BROOKS Annual Hair & Beauty Show 2013 Under this years theme, World Weather, amazing hairstyles, make-up and costumes by students from Bedford College. Tickets 8, doors 6.30pm, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Gary Delaney - Purist Gary thinks that most shows dont contain enough jokes, and is trying single handedly to redress the balance. Expect jokes, dont expect narrative, themes or a voyage of selfdiscovery. Tickets 14, 8pm, Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Road Victims Trust Fundraising Quiz Night 5pp including ploughmans supper. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www. whitehorsebedford.co.uk Jam Night with Mat Roberts Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732

Friday 24th May

FIA European Drag Racing Championships Santa Pods flagship championship event including top fuel dragsters, drag bikes, jet cars, stunts, monster trucks, traders and sideshows. Opens 8am, tickets from 12. Running until 27th May. Santa Pod Raceway, Airfield Road, Podington, Wellingborough. Tel: 01234 782828 www. santapod.com The Drifters - 60th Anniversary Diamond Dynasty Tour The Drifters celebrate this incredible achievement by producing their most spectacular show to date before their worldwide tour . Tickets 25, 7.30pm, Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square. Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk Hair of the Dog Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732 Exec Club Karaoke 9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

CAMRA North Beds Pub of the Year 2013

32 Dudley street, Bedford MK40 3TB

Beer & Cider Festival 2013

Spring Bank Holiday Weekend.
Starts Friday 24th May 2013 (17.00)

Saturday 25th May

Monday 20th May

Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Tonys General Knowledge Quiz The Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk Open Mic Night Hosted by local singer/songwriter Matt Roberts, 8.30pm til close. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Tuesday 21st May

Saturday 18th May

West End Wendies Theatre Workshops Take part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www. westendwendies.com Making Performance - seven short shows, a different programme every night University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. Life and Times in concert: Treasures of the Heartlands Graeme and Barrys music has taken them to most of the major folk clubs and festivals and their music has been featured national radio. Tickets 10. St Mary Magdalene Church, Dunton, Biggleswade. Tel Simon Bailes: 01767 310424 duntonfolk@hotmail.co.uk www.duntonfolk.co.uk Bedford Auction Centre 20th Century Design Furniture and Collectors Items Auction An auction for specialist buyers and private individuals looking for something out of the ordinary to furnish their homes. 10.30am, free admission. Bedford Auction Centre. Tel: 01234 266366 www.peacockauction.co.uk Italian Society Meeting Antonio Meucci will be at The Chapter House, St Peter de Merton Church, De Parys Avenue, 8pm. Superyob Upbeat Promotions present this band on the main stage at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra presents The Heart of England George Butterworths rhapsody A Shropshire Lad plus Elgars magical Sea Pictures with Jeanette Ager will join the BSO to sing the work. Tickets 3-13, 7.30pm in the Main

Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPB Tuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise 3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb. org.uk/thelodge Bedford College Open Day 5-8pm. For more information and to pre-register visit: www.bedford.ac.uk/eventsor call 01234 291000 New Write Nights 2 After the huge success of the first event, Novus have returned bringing 5 nights of theatre and poetry from Bedford and beyond. 7.30pm at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk. Running until the 25th. Karaoke & Cocktails Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com The Old Geezer Band Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington Arms, Wellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033 White Horse Quiz Night Teams of up to 6, 8.30pm, 1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www. whitehorsebedford.co.uk Psychic & Spiritual Development Group Learn and explore psychic and spiritual subjects with Elizabeth Drake. 7-9.30pm at Brickhill Community Centre. 10. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk Staging New Writing - three one-act plays by contemporary playwrights University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. Talk by Sir Samuel Whitbread KCVO Organised by the Friends of St Andrews, this talk is entitled Plain Mr Whitbread where Sir Samuel will speak about his experiences. Starts 8pm, tickets 3-4. St Andrews Church, Kimbolton Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 216881 www.standrewsbedford.org Stitch n Bitch Bring any crafty project to The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd, 7.30pm. beverlyjoburridge@gmail.com Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk

West End Wendies Theatre Workshops Take part in a weekly theatre workshop programme led by current professional West End performers. 9am-4pm. Cost upon application. Southbank Arts Centre, Bedford. www. westendwendies.com Faith Woodlands Communities Farewell Event Hear the many testimonies regarding the project. With a yoga session, woodcarving exhibition and a performance from a local choir. Light refreshments available at the end..All welcome, free entry, 2-3.30pm. Bedford Priory Country Park. fwc.bedford@gmail.com www.faithwoodlands.org.uk St. Owens Church Annual Fayre Grand draw, stalls and side shows plus bouncy obstacle course. Local school children will be maypole dancing. Doors 2pm, free entry. Bromham Village Hall, Village Road 7 Twenty 7 Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732 Reiki Drum Meditation Session Relax to the constant beat of the drum in this session with Elizabeth Drake at Cafe Virtuoso, Bedford. 6.45pm-8 .30pm. 5. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk Fat Lads Disco Hosted by Intobeats radio DJ, Ian Congdon-Lee. 10pm at The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500 Loaded Clubnight @ The Pad Indie/rock n roll/old skool hip hop/beats & bass. 10pm-3am, free entry before midnight. 07860 454530 http://www. facebook.com/#!/thepadnightclub Karakoke with Crazy Horse 8pm, The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Business Lunch - 2 courses 9.95 Including hot/cold drink. Call to pre-order so your food is ready on arrival! See our website for the menu. Now also open Sundays 12noon - 10pm. Sunday Specials Board available. 27 St Peters Street, Bedford MK40 2PN 01234 340724 / 07809 378733 amici.bedford@gmail.com www.amici-restaurant.co.uk
Behind The Scenes At The Sale Rooms A talk in the Robert Room by some of the auctioners where antiques and jewellery will be on display. Tickets 8 includinga cheese and wine buffet. All proceeds to Sue Ryder Care, St Johns Hospice. 7.30pm start. Bedford Auction Centre. Tel: 01234 266366 www.peacockauction.co.uk The All Saints Church Cafe in the Tower Sample a range of cakes and cookies to go with your cuppa. The Church Tower will also be open and the view from the top is well worth the climb. Wander around the award-winning Churchyard. 2.30-5.30pm. Tower trips 1-2. All Saints Church, Odell, North Beds. jane@ eshelby.co.uk www.odellbeds.net Vanity-Fair in the Manor House Garden Music and stalls, vanity, gluttony, gambling, games and madness, all based on the story of The Pilgrims Progress. 1-5pm, entry 4.50. Dancing from 5pm and Vanity-Fair play continues in the church at 6pm. 8 entry. Kathy Browns Garden, The Manor House, Church Road, Stevington. Tel: 01234 822064 info@kathybrownsgarden.com www.kathybrownsgarden.com Jazz Evening With a featured artist and band from 8.30pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Tonys General Knowledge Quiz The Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk Monday Morning Guided Meditation Session Go on a healing guided journey to peacefulness with Elizabeth Drake. 10.30-1130am, Bedford, 5. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk Big Band Xtra Jam Nite Hosted by local singer/songwriter Mat Roberts, 7.30pm til late. Just listen or join in! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Sunday 26th May

Wednesday 22nd May

Sunday Afternoon Jazz Live music at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. 2-4pm. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Peripheral Vision - new dance work by students with professional dance artist Diccon Hogger University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7.30pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. Book Group At The Wellington Arms from 5pm, Wellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033 The Ouse Valley Singles Club Live music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, 2 Bromham Rd. Tel: 01234 214656 www.thebedfordarmsbedford.co.uk Jons Music Quiz Up to 300 prize money! The Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Tel: 01234 354494 www.thekingsarmsbedford.co.uk White Horse Quiz Night Teams of up to 6, 8.30pm, 1pp entry. Free bingo game for Sunday quizzers! The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www.whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Tuesday 28th May

Monday 27th May

Weekly Morning Walks at the RSPB Tuesday weekly walks around the reserve. Come and admire the wildlife and enjoy the site. Everyone welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. Free for RSPB members, otherwise 3. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy. Tel: 01767 680541 www.rspb. org.uk/thelodge Authors in the Garden - a special literary event Presenting music, poetry and extracts from their 19 published novels, Sue and Leslie will explore the sensual beauty of gardens and how nature can enrich our lives. Kathy Browns Garden, The Manor House, Church Road, Stevington. Tel: 01234 822064 info@kathybrownsgarden. com www.kathybrownsgarden.com Karaoke & Cocktails Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com The Old Geezer Band Every Tuesday from 8.30pm at The Wellington Arms, Wellington Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 308033 White Horse Quiz Night Teams of up to 6, 8.30pm, 1pp entry. The White Horse, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Tel: 01234 409306 www. whitehorsebedford.co.uk

Kathy Browns Garden Open Day Wisteria, early roses and clematis with vanity fair in the garden plus well dressing beside the church. Home made teas, plants, signed books and recipe cards available. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic. 1-5pm. 4.50 entry. The Manor House, Church Road, Stevington. Tel. 01234 822064 www.kathybrownsgarden.homestead.com info@ kathybrownsgarden.com

Wednesday 29th May

The D Day Darlings - The Songs that Won the War Marking the 90th anniversary of the Royal British Legion, the show is set in 1939 at the heart of wartime Britain, taking you on a nostalgic journey with classics such as Well Meet Again, White Cliffs of Dover and Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy. Tickets 10, 2.30pm, Main Auditorium, Bed-

Listings continue on page 8

COMEDY COMING SOON: Bedfringe 7... Live 19th JULY 2013

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

THEATRE Trench at Bedford Theatre 7.30pm on Saturday 18th May
strange world beneath the mud and death. Setting off on an epic journey of salvation, the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur as he questions whats real, whats not and whether it even matters? Blending live music, puppetry and physical performance, The Trench is the critically acclaimed new show from razor sharp theatre company, Les Enfants Terribles (THE TELEGRAPH). Written by Oliver Lansley (Sky Ones Little Crackers) with music by acclaimed artist Alexander Wolfe we really cannot recommend this highly enough. Tickets are priced 10 from www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk.

MAY 2013

After a sell-out five star run at the Edinburgh Festival, Les Enfants Terribles come to Bedford for the first time with their new award-winning show, The Trench.

From the team behind The Terrible Infants,

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

PHOTOGRAPHY A Vintage Soiree

A Vintage Soiree is a photography exhibition presenting a series of fifty simple, classic wedding images shot throughout 2012 all inspired by A Black and White Era.
he exhibition by Abraxas Photography will be presented for a week in May at The South Bank Arts Centre at Bedford College. What you will see in the gallery are the very basics of photography with emphasis on Composition, Shape, Form and Texture, all captured in a moment, of a bride. Its not a series of studio shot images with hours of lighting or tricks. Said Kam of Abraxas: There were challenging points for photographers and

Edward Bawden (1903 1989) Aesops Fables The Gnat and the Lion 1970, linocut The Edward Bawden Estate

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

CRAFT BedYarn needs you!

BedYarn hopes to bring some colour, whimsy and happiness into the everyday lives of Bedfordians through the art of Yarnbombing.
arn bombing, yarnbombing, yarnstorming, guerrilla knitting, urban knitting or graffiti knitting is a type of graffiti or street art that employs colourful displays of knitted or crocheted yarn or fibre rather than paint or chalk. Displays are non-permanent but can remain in place for years if undisturbed. The project, commissioned by Bedford Creative Arts, funded by Arts Council England, will culminate on the 8th June in a public Yarnbombing event in Bedford. You can get involved in a variety of ways and you dont need to be able to knit or crochet! Join one of the free knitting workshops held in May to learn how to knit. Donate any old or unused knitting, crochet or other wool projects for use in the Yarnbombing. Make pom poms or other wool based projects to use in the Yarnbomb. This is a great project for children! Join us on the 8th June to take part in the Yarnbomb. Your participation can be as easy as wrapping wool around an object to more creative and elaborate works of art. For more information, please find us at https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/ Bedyarn for regular updates!

Love music? Love entertaining? Can you pull a crowd? Then we need you! Saturday 27 July 2013 10am-4pm Love Bedford, love Busking Day
For information contact BedfordBID on 01234 404500 or visit www.lovebedford.co.uk
Listings from page 7
Reiki Drum Meditation Session Relax to the constant beat of the drum in this session with Elizabeth Drake at The Friends Meeting House, Lansdowne Road, Bedford. 6.45pm-8.30pm. 7. Tel: 07816 236659 elizabethdrake@live.co.uk Dance In and For the Community - new work created collaboratively with local people University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. 7pm Tickets 5/3 on the door or call 08003285334 to book. The Biggest Jam Night in Town Huge open mic night at Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com

Yarnbombing in Madrid

MUSIC The Billy On Sunday 19th May, the Billy Walton will head to Bedford as part of their Walton Band Band UK tour. Billy is well known on the New music scene and has played with returns to Jersey East Coast legends Bruce The Boss Bedford Springsteen and (rumour has it) Bon Jovi.
Playing Louisana bluegrass and funky
talented performers from Northants and Beds, performing hits and parodies from the world of Musical Theatre. Supporting Dreamflight & Leukaemia Research. Tickets 7-10, starts 7.30pm. Tel Fysh2Fry: 07885 944194. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road. Tel: 01234 354321 www. theplacebedford.org.uk Oliver A classic musical theatre production featuring the haunting ballad Where Is Love? to the clamorous Food, Glorious Food, and the cheery Youve Got to Pick a Pocket or Two. 7.30pm, Bedford Theatre, Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford. Box Office: 01234 269519 www. bedfordtheatre.co.uk Jam Night with Mat Roberts Live music from 9pm at The Flower Pot, Tavistock St. Tel: 01234 296732 Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls (from The Wonder Stuff) Plus The Ouse Valley Singles Club, Jonny Mudd & Harriet

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

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

Thursday 30th May

Jazz Concert at the Barns Hill House The Barn in Carlton welcomes back Tad Newtons Jazzfriends, who made their debut at The Spice Of Life Jazz Club in London. Tel: 01234 718112 www.thebarncarlton.co.uk The Last Chance Ragtime Band Live music from 8pm at The Bedford Arms, Bromham Rd,

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

Friday 31st May

Langley. Live music on the Mainstage at Esquires, Bromham Rd, Bedford. Tickets 8.50 from www.wegottickets. com & Dannys Bar. Tel: 01234 340120

The Ben Poole Band + The Carl Linnett Trio Live music on the main stage, Esquires, Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 340120 www.bedfordesquires.com Ceroc Modern Jive Night Freestyle Ceroc fun. Come alone or with a partner for a party atmosphere and a top DJ. Dancing until 12.15am. Tickets 9 on the door, starts 7.45pm. Main Auditorium, Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square Box Office: 01234 269519 cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk www.ceroccentral.com Oliver See 30th May. www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk Exec Club Karaoke 9pm, The Exec Club, Lurke Street, Bedford. Tel: 01234 401500

Lets brighten up Bedford!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

GREAT BEDFORDIANS
CHARLES WELLS (1842 1914)
By Gemma Hutton phine married in 1872. Charles was forced to seek a new career, and when in 1876 the Horne Lane Brewery was put up for sale, Charles saw the potential to carve out a name for himself in an industry that was expanding rapidly and purchased the brewery and a handful of pubs for 16,700. Charles threw himself with enormous vigour into running and building the trade of his brewery and in the first year made a creditable profit of 829. Charles purchased new pubs and continued to invest in the brewery. In 1889 he rebuilt parts of the brewery and also improved the Brewery House which he and Josephine shared. Josephine was offered the choice of a riverside view or one facing Horne Lane, surprisingly she chose the street outlook. Charles and Josephine had 8 children, with 4 of them becoming directors of the family business. Charles insisted that they all live in Bedford and firmly vetoed the decision made by one of his sons when he decided to live just two miles outside the town. Charles retained his connections with the sea and sailing. He owned a cutter and was a member of the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian Yacht Club. He regularly sailed his small boat, the Moorhen, on the River Ouse and was a member of the Bedford Regatta Committee. He was active in public affairs, and was County Councillor from 1892 to 1907. He served on several committees and was a generous benefactor when there was no public funding of health care. He gave financial help to Bedford General Library and was a supporter of St. Pauls Church,

MAY 2013 ILLUSTRATION In The Woods

The Circus of Illustration have released their first zine this month featuring work from 13 Bedfordshire illustrators inspired by the theme In the Woods.

Charles Wells was born in Bedford in 1842, one of six children and the son of George Wells and Sarah Gibson.

Charles gave up a successful seafaring

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

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

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

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

PRINT WORKSHOP

After having a chance to look through Scarletts portfolio of lino prints, participants will create printed brooches to take home using this fun and satisfying technique. No experience necessary. Booking essential as spaces are limited. For more information and to book, talk to Scarlett tel: 07792 148558 email: contact@scarlettrebecca.co.uk Goats Cheese & Sundried Tomato Panini Slice of Tortilla with Alioli Andaluz Style Toast with Tomato & Oil Churros & Dipping Chocolate (pure heaven!) In the evening rock up here to have a lovely supper of Spanish tapas, wine and beer or chill at one of the high tables which are reserved for casual drinkers. Owners Brian and Olivia offer friendly advice about the menu so that you can choose tapas and drinks to give your tastebuds a tantalising treat. Top Tip: Look out for the Andaluz monthly music event (first Thursday of the month) with incredible musicians such as DCallaos, Danni Nicholls, Lee Spence and many more. Details on Facebook.com/ AndaluzShop. Andaluz is at 120a Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3RG www.andaluzshop.co.uk T: 0791 334 2654 | E: enquiries@andaluzshop.co.uk | Twitter @AndaluzShop Stay tuned to Bedford Network this May when we will be celebrating the people, places and perks that make Bedford unique. www.bedfordnetwork.co.uk Facebook: Facebook.com/BedfordNetwork Twitter: @BedfordNetwork

you our best experiences of Bedford From cafes to art galleries and theatres to books. Anything and everything but only the best. This month were soaking up a bit of
Spanish sunshine right here in Bedford where you will find not only tapas but music events that are sure to set your toes a-tapping! Andaluz on Castle Road in Bedford is a superb Spanish tapas restaurant and deli with an exciting menu that now includes breakfasts on Saturday mornings (10.0012.30). As soon as you dip into Anduluz you succumb to the chilled atmosphere and for a blissful little time you can believe you are in a Spanish bar in sunny Espania rather than rainy Bedford! The breakfast menu is full of Spanish style and scrumptiousness and all at under 4, with coffee for just 1. An offer we certainly cant refuse! Serrano Ham & Cheese Panini Chorizo & Cheese Panini

At Bedford Network we share with

CRAFT
Bedford Craft, Produce and a Cuppa are holding their monthly fayre at the Church Lane Community Centre (next to Aldi) on Saturday 4th May.
longside the stalls and caf will be a childrens jewellery workshop hosted by SuQu Designs. The free sessions will be held at 10am, 11.30am and 1pm and places are limited. Children will learn how to make friendship or stretchy bracelets (depending on their age. Theyve also got a wood turner demonstrating on the day too, so theres lots going on.

SOCIETY MS Therapy Centre sets 30 challenge

The MS Therapy Centre in Barkers Lane Bedford, which provides therapies, services and support to over 1000 people with MS in the local area, celebrates its 30th anniversary this June, and has challenged each of its members, friends and family to raise 30.
has grown in response to demand, from a small unit on an industrial estate in Bedford to the current purpose-built premises on Barkers Lane. All of the money needed to build the Centre and provide its services come from the generous support of its members, friends, Trusts, local businesses and organisations. We use many volunteers, and in 2009, the Centre was awarded the Queens award for voluntary services. Some of the therapies provided are counselling, oxygen therapy, a dietician and a speciallyand a specially designed gym. The Centre employs an MS specialist Nurse Fancy lino printing at Fancy? and occupational therapist, and arranges access to continence services. Complementary therapies include shiatsu, pilates and yoga. Computer training, transport and the loan of specialist pieces of equipment are also vital aspects of the support which is offered to people with MS. 30th Anniversary celebrations will be focused on the month of June, with members taking part in a wide range of activities to raise their 30, including a group who will be abseiling down the Otis lift tower in Northampton. Festivities will peak with the annual Strawberry Tea and Fete, which will take place on Sunday 30th June (1-4pm). The Centre is grateful to everyone who has supported them over the years, and

66 Stanley Street, Bedford, MK41 7RU 01234 330056

Your Local
For a decent pint, quality lager or glass of good wine. 4 hand pumps with regularly changing guest ale. Home of Pie on a Plate. Small courtyard Garden. welcomes any donations for their 30 challenge. 30 for 30 years can anyone else help? We will be holding special fundraising events all through June, and would be delighted if you could attend: Strawberry Tea and Fete at the MS Therapy Centre on Sunday 30th June (1-4pm) For more details contact Val or Tracy on 01234 325781 or email: msfundraising@ hotmail.co.uk

Voted North Beds CAMRA Most Improved Pub 2013

The Centre was established in 1983, and

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

If you sometimes feel that Bedford is lacking in the cosmopolitan cafe culture that is much sought-after in the slightly less balmy parts of Europe, then you need to take a stroll down to The Lane in Castle Quay (after your siesta, of course.)
ine bar by night, cool hangout by day; this is a great place to come at pretty much any time of the day. Overlooking the Castle gardens, embankment and the river, it is also one of the most stylish places in Bedford to enjoy a coffee and a generous slice of cake. Sitting out on the terrace in the sun, with the pedestrianised area around the

MAY 2013
really, well, just incredibly figgy. It was fruity and nutty and served with cream or ice cream. Completely delicious. Rich (Mr Coffee and Cake, who had volunteered his cake-expertise) sampled the coffee and walnut cake, which was one of the most generous slices of cake either of us had ever seen. It was incredibly moist, with gooey coffee icing and plenty of

COFFEE & CAKE Wine Bar treats: At The Lane

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

CAFE VIRTUOSO
Here at Cafe Virtuoso we have just introduced our new Summer Menu which includes lovely tasty salads, smoothies and even veggie burgers.

RECIPE

LENTIL & TOMATO pt

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

By Jane Perrone

Down the stone path, hang a left through the wooden arch and Im standing in the garden of Eden, complete with apple trees.

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

last surviving member died last year, but the Societys archives, buildings and gardens are now being looked after by the Panacea Charitable Trust. Eden or not, the gardens, with their mature trees, lawns, topiary and stone carved benches, are delightful. Curiously, the tree of knowledge for the Panaceans was not the fabled apple, but an imposing weeping ash tree with snaking branches that wouldnt look out of place in a Tolkien novel. This tree - called Yggdrasil after the tree of life and knowledge from ancient Norse mythology - marks the centre of the universe in the Panacea worldview. There are more curiosities, too: a large cage in which the leader of the Panacea Society, Mabel Barltrop, kept a tame magpie, and a clock tower and chapel that wouldnt look out of place in toytown, built in the 1930s. The bell inside the clock tower is called Little Ben and the Panaceans believed that every time the bell rang, their message was being proclaimed: you can still hear its chime today. And there are plenty of beautiful plants and trees for the horticulture fans among you, from the fine standard camellias at the front entrance and spring bulbs scattered through the flowerbeds, to a line of silver birches and a statuesque copper beech tree. No garden visit would be complete without the opportunity for tea and cake. Catering at the open days will be provided by the Kiosk at Russell Park, so why not settle down for a picnic on the lawns? Inside the museum, you can find out more about the Panacea Societys curious beliefs, including the mysterious sealed box containing the prophecies of Joanna Southcott, a female prophet of the eighteenth century, and the healing powers of Mabel Barltrop, the groups messianic Shiloh

Photos: Hazera Forth

GARDENING Bedfords slice of Eden

ne of our most recent additions, Lentil and Tomato pate, has been so popular, we thought we would share the recipe with you. It comes served with cherry tomatoes, mixed leaf salad and warm bread. However if you prefer to come and give it a try, come in for a special 10% discount by mentioned the Bedford Clanger.

Ingredients

Large mug red lentils (wash and rinse in hot water until clear) 1 heaped dessert spoon of tomato puree 1 heaped teaspoon of yeast extract 1 heaped teaspoon oregano 1 heaped teaspoon of basil1 heaped teaspoon of mixed herbs teaspoon of sugar1 teaspoon of paprikaa drop of soya sauce Salt & pepper to taste

Method

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

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

SPONSORED BY: Cafe Virtuoso 7 Harpur Street, Bedford, MK40 1LA: www.cafevirtuoso.co.uk

figure. The Panacea Society is a unique Bedford institution, so dont miss your opportunity to peek inside. The museum and gardens will be open to visitors on the second Saturday of the month until September: the next open day is May 11 from 10.30am to 4.30pm, last admission 3pm. Entrance is free, but booking is essential: contact 01234 353178 or email museum@panacea-society.org. The main entrance to the museum is at 9 Newnham Road, adjacent to The Higgins Art Gallery and Museum. Private groups of 8-20 people can arrange to tour the museum and grounds at other times: please contact the museum for details. For more information visit the Panacea Charitable Trust website panacea-society. org. Jane Perrone Garden writer, editor and blogger http://perrone.blogs.com/horticultural http://guardian.co.uk/gardening-blog @janeperrone

By Stephen Bywater

FOOD The Cheese Kitchen

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

Herb garden open day If youve ever wandered The community herb garden is holding its
down Castle Road and wondered what all the herb garden at the Rothsay roundabout is all about, now is your chance to find out. 10

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

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

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

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE MUSEUM
Unpacking a bit of Bedford
by Lydia Saul, Keeper of Social History, The Higgins Bedford. enhanced by objects donated by many individuals. Here we highlight the collections of two individuals that have been significant in putting together the displays for Place Gallery 2. Sandy Chrystal was born in Bedford in 1927 and loved his town. He attended The Bedford Training College School at the Crescent for 4 years under Miss Spence before becoming a pupil at Bedford School from 1936 1945. He set up his own architect firm at The Grove, Bedford in 1961 with his brotherin-law Bernard West as his partner. During his lifetime Sandy Chrystal amassed one of the largest collections of Bedfordiana over 350 objects were generously donated to the museum by his family in 2007. They are the ordinary objects of everyday life in our town from a hundred, and more, years ago. Many items came from shops and trades in Bedford, including High Street names, as well as a large collection of objects relating to Bedfordshires brewing industry. Andrew Underwood was born in Ampthill in May 1934. He devoted his life to researching the history of his town. He also collected a lot of documentary material as well as objects that related to his family and to the general history of the area which he later donated to the archives and the museum. He wrote numerous publications about Ampthill and wanted to share his love and knowledge of history with others. Andrew was a school master at Bedford Modern School and was appointed the schools archivist in 1972, a post which he held until 1998. He has donated over 180 objects to the museum collection ranging from items used by Grandfather Albert Grimmer, such as a firemans helmet relating to Ampthills fire brigade. An important collection of objects relate to the Second World War and what it was like in Bedfordshire during that time. A collection of bits of bomb and shrapnel were donated through Mr Underwood that show Bedfordshire did not fully escape the Blitz unscathed. We hope that by displaying some of the many items he has donated that his desire for our local history to be shared with all will continue as his legacy. SPONSORS OF:

MAY 2013 Local Heroes

With the muchanticipated reopening of The Higgins Bedford on 21st June fast approaching, were all working very hard to get the new galleries ready.
bit of Bedfords history to install in Place Gallery 2. These collections relate to the later development of Bedford as an agricultural and industrial town. This includes both large objects, such as the Howards Champion Plough and small items like medals. It covers both Victorian domestic leisure activities, and what it was like in Bedford during the War. It has objects that are light as a feather, such as Garibaldis pen and heavy bits of kit such as the brickworks Clocking In machine and W H Allens apprentices scale engine model. It covers Victorian Bedfords prosperity and growth, times of innovation such as Dan Albones Ivel Tractor, as well as times of trauma such as the crash of the Airship R101 in France. The installation of each object presents its own challenges; many will have specially made mounts to help the visitors see them at their best. The objects are a physical reminder of the stories of the people of Bedford over the decades living and working here and how the diverse population of Bedford developed to the community it is today. The social history collections have been

LUCIE FULLER
By Rachael Rice

This week weve been unpacking a little

Lucie Fuller is a great nominee for the Local Hero for May.

She (and her husband, Steve) have worked

tirelessly to bring the Burnaby Arms on Stanley St near Bedford Park up to a very high standard and become a beacon in the local community. You need only pop into the Burnaby to see all of the great things going on there along with the cool vibe and the warm welcome. It has become the local with a heart. Lucie offers local musicians and small business people like me a chance to get involved in the local scene live music nights, brunch club events, community choir caroling, wine tastings, and with summer finally showing its face, bbqs and parties. Lucie nominated the Burnaby for the PRS Music Matters competition and it won! Kitted out with a fine new PA system, you will hear even more great music. If you havent been to the Burnaby Arms before or in awhile, its time you went and saw for yourself what all the fuss is about! Thank you Lucie, keep doing what youre doing! - Kris Wilkinson Hughes, local singer/ songwriter, owner of the Frogs Chorus and Ruby Falls Brunch Club.

Lucie Fuller

RELIGION Behind the walls with a Prison Chaplain: WE ARE SAILING

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

SOCIETY THE PRINCES TRUST IS CHANGING LIVES

by Sarah Cowley

When I first began the Princes Trust course based in Bedford I was an incredibly shy and introverted person.
had lost self-confidence and lacked stability in my life which left me feeling like little more than a hopeless youth. I was recommended the course by a friend and simply joined to fill some time, though I never really had any expectations for the course to be of any help. I was wrong. The Princes Trust course focuses upon employability and team building skills among young people aged 16-25. Throughout the weeks the team of 12-15 young people engage in a variety of

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

Cafe - Bistro Cheese Room Delicatessen

THE CHEESE KITCHEN

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

104b/108 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QR Telephone: 01234 217325, Email:thecheesekitchen@gmail.com
Thats great news, Sarah!

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

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

those wholl give it a go, but are very aware of their limitations, and will ask for help or advice when they dont know what to do. As you might imagine, its this last type who tends to learn quickly, and then get the best out of the experience. Its not so different on land really. I bet we can all think of examples of each type! I know Ive worked with a few over the years. This week Ive been spending quite a bit of time talking to one of my prisoners. Hes not a young man, and he has a long history of offending, but hes now reached the stage where he wants to sort his life out. Hes taken the all-important first step, shown the maturity to recognise hes been getting it wrong, and has asked for help. Well do our best to give it. Its not easy, asking for help. Most of us have the mindset that says we dont want to bother people, or we dont want to look weak. Theres a hymn I love (What a Friend we have in Jesus) that goes Oh what peace we often forfeit, oh what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. Well, praying may or may not be your thing, but the hymn words are useful shorthand. Struggling on may not be the right thing to do and most people love being asked to lend a hand. If we can be humble enough to recognise we dont have all the answers, or maybe brave enough to recognise were not making headway, then asking for help, for a lifeline, may decide whether we sink, or swim. Follow Sharon Grenham-Toze on Twitter@glamvicar

11

THE BEDFORD CLANGER

FASHION PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP
Well, winters finally, finally over so its time to pack away the woollies and start thinking about getting our summer wardrobe sorted.
son, with Superdry and G-Star too. In Maysons its all about colour. A wall of seasonally bright Ralph Lauren cannot fail to lift your spirits as you walk in and if its denim youre after, with over 50 styles from Diesel, Armani Jeans , Stone Island & Boss theres no shortage of choice. Contemporary classics from Fred Perry and Lyle & Scott sit alongside the edgier Vivienne Westwood collection. A/W13 will see the arrival of Alexander McQueen as well as Boss Orange & Boss Green. Maysons is one of only a handful of indies in the country to stock both Boss diffusion ranges, so make sure you check them out. Photos: Donnie Canning

MAY 2013 GARDENS Roll up, roll up! Enjoy the fun of the fair at Stevington!

By Paula Walker

We recommend you head straight to The Arcade for a welcome splash of this seasons must have colours. In Boutique Planet youll find pastels and brights, owner Nicks handpicked selection of the White Stuff collection, some great Superdry pieces and new for S/S13 is a capsule collection from 55DSL by Diesel. Keep your feet looking fabulous in fashions perennial flip flops Havainanas. For the boys, youre spoilt for choice in Planet and Maysons. Planet is stocking King, Addict and Circa81 new for this sea-

The Stevington village community is coming together to liven up the Bank Holiday Monday on 27th May.

Following the successful Well Dressing

FILM Made of Stone to be shown in Bedford

If you are a fan of the Stone Roses, then its likely that you are aware of Shane Meadows much anticipated documentary about them.

SOCIETY Mental Health Awareness Week 12th -19th May Bedford Uprising group Centred

and re-enactment of an extract from John Bunyans Pilgrims Progress last year, the energetic folk in Stevington are going a step further this year. Kathy Browns beautiful garden will be the setting for a Vanity Fair, loosely based on Pilgrims Progress. The fun begins at 1pm with a variety of stalls, games, face painting and live music. Refreshments, liquid and otherwise, will be available throughout the afternoon (be warned: there are some seriously good bakers in the village). You might spot Christian and his companion Faithful wandering around, appalled at the excesses they are surrounded by! This is also an opportunity to visit the beautiful four-acre garden itself. Experience the wisteria walk with arches covered with clematis, wisteria and honeysuckle and elsewhere enjoy the early roses, alliums, foxgloves, irises, poppies and much more. Dont forget to explore the many other inspiring areas of the garden. At 5pm there will be the first part of the lively play, the arrest of Christian and Faithful for criticising the excesses of the Vanity Fair (all parts played by locals). There will also be music and childrens dancing on the lawn. The festivities working sites, videos, radio and television. During Mental Health Awareness Week, Centred will take part in a Facebook campaign where they will get as many people as possible to display the Centred logo and mask as their profile picture. The mask image symbolises how men generally tend to conceal their feelings rather than talk about them and seek help and treatment. Centred have communicated with mental health charity the Bedfordshire and Luton Mind to help promote their

continue at the church, where the rest of the play, the trial of Christian and Faithful, with Lord Hategood overseeing the proceedings, will take place. Well Dressing, a tradition thought to originate in Derbyshire, was brought to Stevington last year. A stain-glassed window in the Stevington Baptist Church of John Bunyans Christian, at what could be Stevington Cross, provided the inspiration. The photograph shows the stunning result a picture formed entirely of flower petals and leaves pressed into a large frame containing damp clay. The stained glass window of John Bunyan writing in his prison cell will provide the basis for this years Well Dressing picture. Going a step further, there will also be a childrens Well Dressing. Both can be seen from 26th May at the church (entry free). What a wonderful example of community cohesion Stevington is displaying, in aiming to follow on from what they achieved last year! Entry to the garden and Vanity Fair is 4.50 (children free) Entry to the play in the Church: 8 (all proceeds to the church) More information can be found at www.kathybrownsgarden.com campaign. Substance abuse, lack of motivation, anger, insomnia and loss of sense of humour are all signs of male depression. If you are worried about yourself or a friend, more info can be found here: http://goodmenproject. com/health/spottingthe-warning-signs-ofdepression-in-men/ To find out more (and to discover how to add the Centred mask) you can follow Centred on twitter @Centred_Bedford or join their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Centred-Bedford/409482325796717?fref=ts.

Made of Stone

The Stone Roses at Heaton Park

premiered in Bedford Cineworld Manchester at the end of April ition has generously ofCompet and tickets sold out in just one minute. fered us three pairs of tickets Bedford-based Roses fans can see the film at Cineworld at a special one day only to see the one-off screening of Made of Stone on 30th May. To be in with a chance screening on 30th May. of winning, just answer this insultingly simple question: Who directed Made of Tickets must be booked in advance so check Stone? Please email your name and the out www.cineworld.co.uk for further info. answer to thebedfordclanger@gmail.com by 24th May.

are using Mental Health Awareness Week as a platform to promote their SAC (social action campaign) to raise the profile of depression in young men. Depression is widely regarded as being more common in women than it is in men. Only 1 in 10 men will receive treatment for depression compared to 1 in 4 women; however 75% of people who die from suicide, which is a high risk of depression, are men. With the tagline Dont Mask Depression, Centred are keen to raise awareness of depression in young men and to also break the taboo of young men seeking help and advice for Mental Health issues in the local Bedford area. They plan to communicate their message with posters, social net-

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

THANK YOUS

Photo: andywillsher.com

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

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

Stone Roses film in Bedford! Brilliant!

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