THE BEDFORD

CLANGER

NOVEMBER 2016

bedford borough council by @katielallen

bedford park concerts by @jacktempleman94

bedford sixth form by @bedfordsixthform

fancy coffee shop by @livebedford

castle mound by @leighakendall

embankment by @bexross

panoui by @epanouidesign

bedfordshire countryside by @goldenharegallery

higgins gallery by @aroundtheworldin80pairsofshoes

houghton house by @sallyforder

kite festival by @lindasmurray

mowsbury park by @erica_roffe

stevington windmill by @fayedunmall

rogans books by @grahamphotographer

river festival by @catlanephoto

oasis by @ritaromanojewellery

I N S T A G R A M W A L K : 5 T H N OV 2 0 1 7 # B E D F O R D P H O T OW A L K

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Apple Day is over, the Beer Festival has been and gone and
Halloween is just a distant memory. Welcome to November and
the inevitable countdown to Christmas. Every year its tempting to
do your Christmas shopping on line, but were celebrating Small
Business Saturday a bit early as a reminder that the great indie
businesses in the town centre need our support. Now in its third year,
Small Business Saturday champions those small businesses (retail
and otherwise) that make town centres unique. Were also looking
at some of the factors that shape the evolution of the landscapes of
our town. Some of the things are outside of our control, but there
are lots of things we can do to improve town centres and supporting
local businesses - whether they are pubs, hairdressers, galleries,
restaurants, shops or cafes is just one way we can help.
Last month, we joined Ben Salmons of the #breakthestigma
campaign at a meeting with journalist and author, Bryony Gordon
at the Daily Telegraph. Bryonys latest book, Mad Girl has inspired
her to be open and upfront about her mental health struggles and
encouraged her to launch Mental Health Mates. Read our interview
with Bryony on page xx and how you can help launch a MHM group
here in Bedford.
As ever weve got a round-up of the best live music and theatre,
including interviews with Wolf People and We Are Scientists plus
a review of Daredevil Rides to Jarama as it returns to the Place
Theatre this month. Finally, this month sees Americas Got Talent
finalist, TapeFace (Sam Willis) appear at the Stables in Milton
Keynes. We first interviewed Sam back in 2013 when he appeared
at Bedfringe. It was an unforgettable performance and is testament
to Bedfringe director, James Pharaohs skill at spotting world-class
talent years before Simon Cowell does.
Have a great month, keep it local and see you in December.
Erica, Julia & Team Clanger

TH E
C L A NG E R

NEWS IN BRIE

NOVEMBER 2016
F

ARRIVAL OF FATHER
CHRISTMAS & FESTIVE
LIGHTS SWITCH ON
This year, Father Christmas will arrive in Bedford in a flurry of traditional
reindeer and not quite so traditional Storm Troopers, courtesty of
LoveBedford. All the fun takes place on Thursday 24th November and
heralds the start of late night shopping in the run-up to Christmas.
Santas reindeer will be in Harpur Square from 2.30pm along with
facepainters and Star Wars themed balloon modellers. Britians Got Talent
finalists, Boogie Storm will be performing at 4pm and 5.45pm and Santas
reindeer parade will take place at 5pm. The Boroughs traditional fireworks
display will take place on the Embankment from 7pm.
More info at: Lovebedford.co.uk

BEDFORD ISNT SH*T

THIS CLANGER WAS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Last months cover was a bit of h*t. We were on the

BBC news website, got interviewed twice on BBC3
Counties and a copy of the paper even took to the
stage at the Place Theatre as a prop in the Pantaloons
production of Romeo & Juliet. The crowning glory
was when (and this is a sentence we never thought wed
type) Gemma at the Panacea Museum sent over a photo
of artist and KLF-founder, Jimmy Cauty holding a copy
of the Clanger. Our work here is (almost) done. And
Bedford is definitely not sh*t.

Editor: Erica Roffe

@bedfordclanger thebedfordclanger@gmail.com
Online editor: Priya Gill @priyangill
Graphics: Reaction Visual Media
reactionvisual.media / @reactionvm
Advertising: Julia Crofts
@ClangerAds / bedfordclangerads@gmail.com
Photography: Cat Lane cat-lane.co.uk
Theatre: Paula Walker @pauliwauli

ON MY RADIO

BY PRIYA GILL @PRIYANGILL

Since the beginning of October, Erica and I have been co-presenting the new Bedford Clanger
Presents radio show broadcast on In2Beats FM. Every Tuesday from 12 - 1pm you can hear us
chat about Whats On locally, what weve been up to and an interview with a guest. So far weve
interviewed TVs upcycling legend, Max McMurdo, the Daily Telegraphs Bryony Gordon and
archaeologist Stephen Cockings.
Are you interested in being featured on a show? Do you have something youd like to share?
Whether its a story, an event, or something youre passionate about, we want to hear from you.
Get in touch at thebedfordclanger@gmail.com or @bedfordclanger and let us know.
Listen online here: intobeats.co.uk/ or here: tunein.com/radio/IN2BEATS-1065-s149718/

Musos: Lloyd Lugsden @lloydlug

and Richard Smith @thefabness
Foodie: Stephen Bywater @authorbywater
Gardening guru: Jane Perrone @janeperrone
perrone.blogs.com
Columnists: Neil Frankel @riversidebeds
riversidetennisbedford.co.uk
Kris Wilkinson-Hughes @euphonioushoney
Ethical Living: Lucy Bywater
The Last Word: Reverend Sonya Wratten
Rediscovering Bedford: Darren Rose
winterrosephotography.com

m
o
c
.
r
e
g
n
a
l
c
d
r
o
he bed f

Visit us at...

Everything local for arts, culture, retail and more!

Search for local events! Upload your own events!
To advertise contact bedfordclangerads@gmail.com or 07966 696784

YAY, ITS NEARLY XMAS AGAIN!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

NOVEMBER 2016

UNIQUE BRITAIN

HOMETOWN TOURIST: PICASSO

AND THE MASTERS OF PRINT

Higgins Bedford until 16th April 2017, Free Entry

Picasso & the Masters of Print opened at The Higgins Bedford on 15th October and
offers a unique opportunity to view together some of the most important prints by
one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. The seven prints by Picasso held at The
Higgins Bedford span seven decades of his career and spectacularly showcase the varied
printmaking techniques that the artist mastered.
These stunning works will be accompanied by a wider exhibition of major artists
original prints drawn from the Cecil Higgins Collection. Five centuries of printmaking
will be on show, ranging from masterpieces by key figures in the history of European
printmaking, such as Drer and Rembrandt, through to 20th century icons such as Matisse
and Warhol, and including contemporary artists such as Paula Rego and Mark Hearld.
Renowned for his paintings and sculptures, Picasso was also the twentieth centurys
greatest printmaker. The Frugal Meal, 1904, is the earliest work in the exhibition and one
of the last works of Picassos Blue Period. Between 1901 and 1904 depression caused
Picasso to withdraw from his social circle. His work became cool and monochromatic.
Although these sombre, melancholic works were not initially popular with critics or
the public, they are now highly revered. A haunting depiction of an emaciated couple
in a caf in Montmarte, The Frugal Meal is considered to be one of the masterpieces
of twentieth century graphic art. Only his second attempt at etching, this work clearly
demonstrates his gifted draughtsmanship and facility with new mediums.
The show-stopping Still Life with Glass under a Lamp, 1962 is a highlight of the
exhibition and one of Picassos best known linocuts. During the early 1960s, Picasso
experimented with linocut printing while living in the south of France. Produced when
he was in his eighties, using a groundbreaking technique, Still Life with Glass under a
Lamp reveals Picassos extraordinary mastery of print. The vibrancy and dynamism of this
colourful night-time scene depicting apples next to a glass beneath the glow of a lamp were
achieved through a challenging and complex process. Instead of the conventional method of
using a separate block for each colour, Picasso developed a single block process, repeatedly
cutting and re-using the same block to gradually build up the final image.
The prestigious collection of more than 400 prints housed at The Higgins Bedford spans all
periods, styles and techniques of printmaking and includes the work of leading international
artists, including Rembrandt, Goya, Whistler, Warhol, Lichtenstein and Hockney.
Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD
Thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Usually, this column celebrates the

things that make Bedford unique:
specialist shops, interesting people or
architecture. However, this month we
have something that is not just unique
to Bedford, but is unique to the whole
of the Britian. And its been discovered
right here on our doorstep
In 2010, building works at Edith
Cavell Lower School uncovered evidence
of a Roman site that had been occupied
since before 43 AD. Archaeologists, led
by Stephen Cockings, speculate that in
Roman times, Manton Heights would
have been prime real estate. As the
highest land in Bedford, on a warm south
facing slope, it is close to the River Ouse,
yet above the flood plain, made it ideal
for a villa.
When a new care home was built
opposite Edith Cavell Lower School,
a pipe trench led to the discovery of a
grand complex of buildings datable to the
second century AD onwards. Excavated
remains included a 9 metre section of
building, wall and inner floor.
Also discovered was the base of a
possible cold plunge pool, in which was
impressed the footprint of a childs highstatus shoe, fashionable between 250 and
300 AD and worn only by very wealthy
men and boys
Other high-status items include the
evidence for a hypocaust, a Roman
under floor heating system, including
supporting pila and box flue tiles.

But what makes this villa so special,

is the stucco work, which is unique to
Roman Britain.
Putting all the evidence together, we
are looking at a very significant Roman
complex of buildings, that are without
parallel in the rest of Roman Britain,
and once held possibly one of the mostly
richly decorated set of rooms ever found
in the Britain, said Stephen. The site is
of interest to the British Museum and is
internationally significant. We are hoping
that in future we might be able to build a
museum on Manton Lane to protect and
showcase our finds. The excavation site
has been covered up for the winter, but
the team of archaeologists are looking
forward to coming back go Manton Lane
in 2017 explore the site further.

THE
C L A NG E R

UNIQUE BE

DFORD

A RATHER LOVELY PUB IN THE HEART OF BLACK TOM

GIN IS OUR THING! DID YOU KNOW WE HAVE OVER 20 GINS
AND GIN OF THE WEEK TO TICKLE YOUR TASTEBUDS?
FEELING PECKISH? DELICIOUS LOCALLY MADE PIES
AND TOASTIES AVAILABLE UNTIL 9PM DAILY.
REGULAR EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE MONTH FROM QUIZZES
TO WHISKY TASTING, PIE NIGHTS TO MUSIC AND COMEDY.
MONDAY
NIGHT IS
QUIZ
NIGHT

TO FIND OUT MORE

Check out facebook.com/theburnabyarmsbedford

for details of future events

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

Real ales pies & toasties bar games music courtyard garden

KEY CHANGE
Friday 4 November
7.30pm
Ticket price
12
(10 concessions)

Age suitability
12 yrs +
Running time
60mins

What do women in prison say to

a captured audience of men?
Devised with women in Her Majestys
Prison Low Newton to tour to male prisons,
Key Change carries the stories of some of
the UKs most marginalised women over
the razor wire through an intense, raw and
illuminating portrayal of women in prison.
A touching, empowering work that hits
the hat-trick of great script, direction
and performance ***** THE STAGE

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

OUR OWN LOCAL INDIANA JONES

Box office
01234 362337
quarrytheatre.org.uk

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

NOVEMBER 2016
T
C L A NH E
GE

NE WS

Ben Salmons

Bryony Gordon

IEF

MAD GIRL,
MENTAL
HEALTH MATES
& BREAKING
THE STIGMA

BEDPOP REPAIR
SHOP COMES TO
THE HIGGINS
BEDFORD

Saturday 19th November, 11am 5pm

Got something thats broken, that you think could be repaired
if only you knew how? Do you hate the thought of throwing
things away simply because you dont have the know-how or
necessary tools? Then help is at hand!
The BedPop Repair Shop will be open for business at the
Higgins Bedford on Saturday 19th November from 11am
5pm to give a new lease of life to your broken belongings.
Bring your broken toasters, frayed jeans or wonky bikes and the
BedPop team of experts and handy dandies will do their best to
make them better. Everything is free, but donations are welcome.
Repair cafes are a concept that has been around for a
while, said local resident and Green candidate, Lucy Bywater.
I wrote a Clanger piece about them recently which was
picked up by other Bedfordians who realized they could make
one happen here. Daniel Churchill is one of the organisers
and will also be on hand to help with repairs. He said,
We want to draw attention to todays throwaway culture
by demonstrating that, with a bit of know-how and the right
tools, most things are fixable. Well have electricians and
seamstresses, engineers and techies plus the guys from Flamme
Rouge will be on hand to give bikes the once over.
Also taking part is textile artist, Helen Jones. As well as
offering button replacement and fabric repairs, Helen will
also be collecting garments for her latest piece of work, based
on fast fashion. Im asking people to donate an unwanted
garment and complete a questionnaire about why theyre
getting rid of it and what it means to them, explained Helen.
I will use the garments to make a patchwork sculpture that I
will display next year.
The BedPop Repair Shop is sponsored by the legendary
Goldings of Bedford. Goldings, who celebrate their 150th
anniversary in 2017, will have a pop up shop at the Higgins as part
of the collaboration, plus will be on hand to offer product advice.
BedPop Repair Shop, Barbican Room, The Higgins
Bedford, 2 Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD

IN BR

On Thursday 6th October, Clanger Editor, Erica Roffe and

#breakthestigma campaigner, Ben Salmons, headed to the
London offices of the Daily Telegraph to meet up with author
and journalist Bryony Gordon. Ive known Bryony for
around 20 years, said Erica. When I read that shed launched
Mental Health Mates I knew that she and Ben would have a lot
in common and that the opportunity to launch Mental Health
Mates in Bedford was too good an opportunity to miss.
Bryony has struggled with OCD for many years and came
out in a Telegraph column in 2015. When I wrote the piece
I had hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of letters, tweets,
emails and cards from people who said, me too, said Bryony.
My publishers asked me to write a book about it, which I did
[Mad Girl was published this summer]. While writing I was
struck by the idea that it would be great if everybody with a
mental health issue had a ready support network to speak out
to. So I settled on a date Valentines Day and sent out a
tweet asking people to turn up to Hyde Park for a Mental
Health Mates meet up. When Bryony told her husband what
shed done, he asked what shed do if loads of mad people
turned up? I told him, Thats exactly the point! laughs
Bryony. Despite fearing that shed be left wandering around
the Serpentine on her own, Bryony was joined by 20 complete
strangers who had answered her clarion call and the Mental
Health Mates movement was born.
The set-up is simple. You decide to set up Mental Health
Mates group/walk in your town, you promote it locally and on
the MHM Facebook group and like-minded people join you at
a designated time and place.
Listening to Ben and Bryony share their stories without fear
of judgement in the busy newsroom of the Daily Telegraph,
its clear that in many cases, the stigma of mental health is
reducing. However, there is still much work to do. And thats
why it would be great to launch Mental Health Mates here in
Bedford. If youve been inspired by Bryonys story, have been
moved by Bens #breakthestigma campaign and want to meet
others who share your experiences, please get in touch with
Robert Lindsay at Just Turn Up to get the MHM ball rolling.
Robert.Lindsay@bedford.gov.uk
More information about MHM walks can be found at the
Mental Health Mates Facebook group and you can follow
Bryony on twitter @bryonygordon. Follow Ben Salmons @
LetsBreakStigma and Just Turn Up @youjustturnup

TIME TO DIG OUT THAT BROKEN RECORD PLAYER!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

THE CHANGING FACE

OF TOWN CENTRES

TH E
R
C L A NG E

NOVEMBER 2016

REET
T
S
H
G
I
H

TOWN CENTRES & HIGH STREETS ARE CHANGING. BEDFORD

IS FAIRING WELL WITH VACANCY RATES BELOW NATIONAL
AVERAGE AND FOOTFALL ABOVE, BUT IT IS NOT IMMUNE FROM
THE CHALLENGES FACING THE UK HIGH STREET. WE KNOW
SOMEONES TO BLAME FOR THE EMPTY SHOPS, HIGH RATES
& UNREALISTIC RENTS, BUT WERE JUST NOT QUITE SURE WHO.
WHEN IN DOUBT, BLAME THE COUNCIL.
A lot of the fault lies with the changing economic climate. Some
of the fault lies with absentee landlords and out-of-town shopping
centres. But most of the fault lies with us. You and me. We changed
the High Street. We switched to Amazon and Asos and Ebay. We
no longer wanted the inconvenience of finding a parking space and
going to a shop. We wanted the convenience of a screen & a swipe.

Change is good

The changing landscape of town centres is hard to predict, but

its likely well see a higher proportion of residential and leisure
replacing retail in the future. This is already apparent in Bedford.
More upper floors are being converted into flats while restaurants,
bars and coffee shops are replacing shops. The development of the
Quarry Theatre, the rise of restaurants on St Cuthberts Street, the
refurb of the Pilgrims Progress & Brewhouse plus the imminent
arrival of Riverside North are evidence of this.
But we still need shops. And libraries. And markets. And pubs.
And community centres. We need spaces and places where people
can meet, share ideas, find new things, discover something they
didnt know they needed. Thats the point of town centres. To meet
up with your mates after school to buy makeup and magazines, to
have a drink after work, to go to the hairdressers, to have a coffee,
to interact with other people.
High streets and town centres are doing their best to adapt to
survive. And we need to embrace that change and support the
small, unique businesses that will be at the heart of this changing
landscape.

The facts

Rates are set by central government based on the value of the

property. Rateable values were last calculated in 2008, prior to the
financial crash, during which property values plummeted. Therefore,
the rates paid over the last nine years do not accurately reflect the
value of the property. Business rates were due to be revalued in 2015,
however the government deemed the market to be too unstable, so
deferred until 2016.
On Friday 30th September 2016, the new rateable values were
revealed, with the East region seeing a 14% reduction. Great
news! But heres the rub. According to Paul Turner-Mitchell,
award-winning independent retailer and business rates campaigner,
the reductions (or rises in the case of London) will be phased in,
therefore many businesses wont reap the benefits for a number of
years. The revaluation is long overdue. If these rate reductions
were implemented immediately it would be a quick fix for our High

Streets. Phasing in could take too long to make the difference to a

struggling small business.
Currently, local councils collect the full value of the rates and
are permitted by central government to retain 49%. By 2020, it is
expected that councils will retain 100% of business rates collected
while other funding will reduce. This will encourage greater focus
on the appeal and commerciality of town centres and may lead to
councils investing in town centre properties to increase their rent
and rate revenue as well as ability to influence.
Just like private rentals, business rents are set by landlords based
on market forces. With many town centre properties owned by
large pension funds & financial institutions, it is unlikely that they
will reduce their rent in order to fill the property as rent reduction
adversely affects the value of the property on their balance sheets.
This is undoubtedly a contributing factor to vacancy rates on the
countrys High Streets and is something that councils are powerless
to control. As town centres evolve towards the residential/leisure
model, it is likely that market forces will see rents reduce in areas
of lower demand, which could provide the perfect opportunity for
small businesses to thrive and the landscape of the High Streets will
change once again.

The bigger picture

Bedfords High Street has been invested in heavily over the past
few years and now is a much more attractive place. Its too easy
to look at a snapshot of empty shops in Bedford in isolation and
draw conclusions about the future of our High Street. The churn of
businesses is natural and has been ever thus. We should be proud
that our town has supported businesses like Goldings and Harrison
& Simmonds for - in the case of Goldings nearly 150 years. We
should be celebrating the fact that off-High Street businesses are
moving to High Street properties and that the THI project has seen
4.5m invested into the town centre. Bedfords vacancy rates are
below national average and footfall is above. The new owners of
the Harpur Centre are promising investment and improvement and
the newly vacated BhS building offers an opportunity for a big
retailer to locate to Midland Road.
The future is in our hands and in our wallets. Its up to us
to support the existing businesses shops, hairdressers, cafes,
music venues, restaurants, market stalls which make the town
unique, bring visitors, drive investment and encourage other small
businesses to exist here. Dont talk down the town, spend your
money there!

SMALL BUSINESS
SATURDAY

In case you hadnt noticed, over at the Clanger HQ we are passionate supporting small
businesses and indie retailers. On Saturday December 3rd its Small Business Saturday: a
chance for you to celebrate all things small but perfectly formed.
From newbies like epanoui and GCH Fishmongers, both of whom have recently
celebrated a year in business, to Goldings who have been on Bedford High Street for nearly
150 years there is a wealth of variety. Check out our website (thebedfordclanger.com) for
our readers favourite indies.
Last year, Gold Hare Gallery in Ampthill was one of the #SmallBiz100 businesses
highlighted as part of the campaign. This year, gallery-owner Laura is celebrating Small
Business Saturday with events at the gallery including Make a Wreath workshops, mulled
wine and a Christmas exhibition. Email laura@goldenhare.co.uk for more details.
Well be in full swing for Christmas on Small Business Saturday, said Hannah Payne,
the owner of epanoui. Wed love people to pop in on 3rd December to write their festive
wish list a gentle hint to loved ones to avert that last-minute Christmas shopping panic!
Throughout the day, Team Clanger will be out and about photographing shop and
business owners, so let us know who we need to include on our Instagram feed.
#SmallBizSatUK

Macbeth
A Radical Reimagining
23, 25 & 26 NOVEMBER, 7.30pm
Offering an intense insight into Macbeths
thoughts in the moments before his death
through the use of live-video feed screened
on stage. Macbeth will be under the spotlight
as we explore the consequences of his desire
for power and the effect on him of his betrayal
and guilt.

Box office
01234 362337
www.quarrytheatre.org.uk

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

GET OUT THERE AND SUPPORT OUR HIGH STREET

Did you know

were open 7 days a week
throughout the year
Tel: O1234 271877

www.kiosk.attheparkbedford.co.uk
kioskatthepark@gmail.com

/kioskatthepark
@kioskatthepark
attheparkbedford
pinterest.com/atthepark

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

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

NOVEMBER 2016

MUSIC TO YOUR EARS

THE
CLANGER
PICK OF THE MONTH

Head over to Herd on St Cuthberts Street for not only great

burgers, but some of the finest DJs and dance music across
the genres. Heres their November line-up.
More details at herd.cool

CLAP TRAP
THEATRE

Resident DJ every Friday and Saturday night.

5th November: Underground Invaders (old skool DnB)
1 2th November: Giovanni Calemma & Katherine Richmond
(deep tech house)
18th November: Leigh the Flava Taylor (soul funk rare groove)
26th November: Dee Malice & Kitty Amor (Afro House)

SATURDAY 3
DECEMBER
7.30PM

IMPACT

TICKETS 10
8.50 CONCESSIONS

TWO RIVETING NEW

ONE-ACT PLAYS

AGE
12+

GOING OFF WITH A

BANG AT THE BLUES!...

Celebrate Bonfire Night this month at the legendary Bedford

Blues fireworks display and funfair on Friday 4th November.
Gates (and the bars) open at 6pm with the displays from 7pm.
Tickets are 5 in advance (under 4s free). Head to bedfordrugby.co.uk
to book your tickets.

AND A SPECTACULAR
NIGHT AT SCOTT LOWER

theplacebedford.org.uk/tickets 01234 354321

TP Clanger 104x104mm IMPACT Advert.indd 1

BLEND IT IN BEDFORD

13/10/2016

On Thursday 4th November, Scott Lower School will host their

Fireworks Spectacular from 5.30pm. Tickets are 4 and family tickets
(two adults, three children) are 10 in advance. Entertainment includes
a bbq, sweet stall, glowsticks and mini funfair rides. Tickets are
15:12
available on Eventbrite.co.uk Search Scott Lower School Fireworks.

NEW WINTER OPENING

DATES ANNOUNCED AT JOHN
BUNYAN MUSEUM
Melt 600 calories per hour
no tennis skills needed
max 12 per class
7 per session after your free trial
Sessions at Riverside Tennis Club on:
Mondays
9.15am
Wednesday 6.00pm
Saturday
6.55am
Goldington Rd | Bedford | MK40 3EA
www.riversidetennisbedford.co.uk

This year, for the first time in its history, the John Bunyan Museum
will be open on Saturdays during the winter. Although closed during
the week from the 29th October, the museum will be staying open for
Saturdays in November, part of January, and all of February.
The museum will be open 10am-3pm Saturday 5th, 12th, 19th, and
26th November, closed all of December and open again (on Saturdays
only 10am-3pm) from 14th January until the 11th February.
From Tuesday 14th February opening times will revert to
11am-4pm Tuesday-Saturday.
Special dates for your diary are Bunyan Meetings Christmas fayre
on Saturday 12th November and there will be lots of activities as part
of Bedfordshire Day on Saturday 26th November.
Curator, Nicola Sherhod said, The museum has had a great year,
and we are really pleased we can open on Saturdays during the winter
so visitors, especially those from further afield, no-longer need to
come back in the spring!
John Bunyan Museum & Library, Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street,
Bedford MK40 3EU 01234 270303 curator@bunyanmeeting.
co.uk bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum

GOING OFF WITH A

BANG AT THE BLUES!...

Celebrate Bonfire Night this month at the legendary Bedford Blues

fireworks display and funfair on Friday 4th November.
Gates (and the bars) open at 6pm with the displays from 7pm.
Tickets are 5 in advance (under 4s free). Head to bedfordrugby.
co.uk to book your tickets.

COMPETITION

There is no stopping former Clanger contributor and awardwinning author, David Litchfield these days; barely a month
goes by without him having a new book published. October saw
Davids illustrations accompany Marilyn Singers new childrens
book, Miss Muffet or What Came After. We all know the Miss
Muffet nursery rhyme. But what happens after Miss Muffet
is frightened away? This book will give you all the answers,
beautifully illustrated as youd expect. David has kindly given
us three signed copies of the
book for our lucky readers,
so please email us with
your name and address to
thebedfordclanger@gmail.
com, entitling your message
Curds & whey by the end of
November. Good luck!

The bi-monthly Friday Night Blender returns to Bedford Esquires

on 4th November, with live performances from Lazy Dog (TBC),
Elijah Miller and The Reformers.
The free-entry Blender is hosted by The Reformers and the
aim to bring together the best bands and DJs for an eclectic mix,
perfectly blended on the night. Roll Your Own Records merge
the live and the recorded, holding down the night from the decks,
playing vinyl between bands and working up a full set until late.
Date for the diary: The Blender Xmas Special will be on
December 23, live acts to be confirmed.
bedfordesquires.co.uk/ @_TheReformers

CHRISTMAS IN
THE ARCADE

The festive spirit is coming early to the Victorian Arcade as they

switch on their Christmas lights and get their decs up on 12th
November. Pop along to see if they have any special guests to
help them out!
There will also be special events and activities in the Arcade
every Saturday until Christmas including tasting tables outside
Arcadia. Mmmmmmmm!

CREATIVES BEDFORDSHIRE:
NETWORKING ON 3RD
NOVEMBER
If you work in the arts, run a creative business, are a freelance
artist, actor, producer, maker or musician (or commission them),
or are just curious, this free network is for you. This months
theme is sales and marketing, with a guide to ecommerce from
Alec East (Narrative Industries) and marketing tips from Lisa
Stenhouse of Fluent Ginger. The evening also includes a BIG
BEDFORD chance to shout-out about your own work and
needs, and to chat informally. Creatives Bedfordshire, hosted by
Bedford Creative Arts, holds monthly events across Bedfordshire
and is free of charge to attend thanks to the support of Central
Bedfordshire Council, and Bedford Borough Council.
This months event is at the Ent Shed (adjacent to the
Gordon Arms on Castle Road) from 7pm 9pm. You can
book your free place here: bedfordcreativearts.org.uk/
projects/creative-bedfordshire-november-networking/

INSTAGRAM WALK
EVERYONE WELCOME

Saturday 5th November @ 11am

Join Bedfords first Instagram Walk, with the purpose of
photographing and documenting the journey on Instagram
as you go. Artist Sara Sayer (@kookymagppie) and Clanger
photographer, Darren Rose (@winterosephotos) will be outside
Oasis swimming pool on 5th November at 11am to greet
everyone. The group will then walk along the River Great Ouse
and Embankment, ending in St Pauls Market Square.
The idea is that this is social photography with absolutely no
pressure to have a fancy camera or lots of previous experience,
said Sara. You just need to bring along a cameraphone with
Instagram installed. The beauty of the walk is that, even if
you cant make it, you can follow it wherever you are, just by
following the #bedfordphotowalk hashtag on Instagram.
@kookymagpie @winterosephotos

BEDFORDSHIRE
DAY: SATURDAY 26TH
NOVEMBER

How will you be celebrating Bedfordshire Day? By heading

to Gunns Bakery to buy a Bedfordshire Clanger, or maybe
youll be making your own. Or by visiting one of our local
landmarks or heritage sites? Let us know what youre doing
to celebrate. #bedforshireday

I CANT WAIT FOR THE FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR.

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

NOVEMBER
SKEPTICS
IN THE PUB

Game of Clones, Thursday

17th November
Do you find yourself making
friends with people like you?
In this months SITP, Dr
Katherine Woolf draws on her
often controversial research
to explore why this happens,
and its impact on success and
injustice. Discover how you
can challenge the status quo
to create a fairer, more integrated, more successful society.
Dr Woolf is a Senior Lecturer and academic psychologist
working at UCL Medical School, finding out what makes people
especially doctors do really well or really badly. Her work
focusses on how and why ethnicity and gender influence success,
and how we can use this knowledge to improve fairness and
equality. She has recently been discovering how our choice of
friends can make a big difference to our success.
Thursday 17h November at 7:30PM, North End Social Club,
60 Roff Avenue, Bedford MK41 7TW

NOVEMBER 2016

JOHN BUNYAN BOAT

CARRIES ITS 22,000TH
PASSENGER!
John Bunyan, Bedfords Community Boat, has celebrated its
most successful season ever and has now carried over 22,000
passengers since it began operating in July 2013.
The boat which was launched by the Bedford & Milton
Keynes Waterway Trust to raise awareness and funds for the
proposed new Waterway Park which will link the Great Ouse
near Kempston Mill, Bedford to the Grand Union Canal
at Campbell Park, Milton Keynes is run by volunteers and
provides river cruises along the Great Ouse in Bedford from
April to the end of October.
The boat operates a variety of cruises on Sundays,
Thursdays and Saturdays throughout the spring and summer
with Afternoon Tea , Fish & Chip Suppers, a monthly live
Jazz Group as well as the boat being available for private
hire for groups, parties, wedding cruises, business events and
school cruises amongst others.
For further details contact graham.mabbutt@
johnbunyanboat.org Phone: 01234 712660 or 07774 606862.

Christmas Lights
Switch On 2016
Thursday 24th November
The Embankment, Bedford, from 7pm
Dont be put off by a cold November night...
wrap up warm, bring the family along and be amazed
at the dazzling celebration of seasonal fire and light
set to festive music...
...a fantastic beginning to Bedfords Christmas events!

TAPAS, COCKTAILS
AND MOCKTAILS @
RESTAURANT 25

On Thursday 10th November, Restaurant 25 at Bedford

College will be hosting a tapas night. Choose from over a
dozen dishes at 2.00 each or three for 5.00. The newlytrained mixology students will be on-hand to shake up
cocktails (2.50) and mocktails (1.50) for a tapas night to
remember!
25restaurant.co.uk/events-and-theme-nights

For more information:

Phone: 01234 718044 Email: events@bedford.gov.uk
Web: www.bedford.gov.uk

CHAMBER CHOIR

On Tuesday 8th November, enjoy a programme of exquisite

chamber music from the 16th century through to the 21st at the
Church of the Transfiguration. Draw on Sweet Night: Music of love
and loss. Cantamus chamber choir, conductor Gary Mudd, 8.00 pm
Church of the Transfiguration, Bedford Rd, Kempston,
MK42 8BQ 7.50 (5.00 concessions) on the door.
Proceeds to church funds.

DRINK & DRAW

Join the happy doodlers of the Circus
of Illustration at their Christmas
Drink & Draw event on Tuesday 29th
November. This monthly event takes
place at the Three Cups on Newnham
Street and everyones welcome,
whatever your ability. Tbh, the more
you drink, the better you draw!
@wearethecircus The Three Cups,
45 Newnham St, Bedford MK40 3JR

VINYL REVIVAL CONTINUES

The BedPop Record Shop is back in Bedford this month and
will be opening its doors to vinyl record lovers on Saturday 12th
November at The Ent. Shed, adjacent to The Gordon Arms pub on
Castle Road.
Doors open at 9am and entry is, as ever, free. The day will
offer a heady mix of live music, vinyl-only DJs and independent
record traders selling a wide variety of records, from collectable
early rock and pop to classic albums and new and re-releases.
With vinyl sales now predicted to top 3 million in 2016 - after last
years 21-year high the beloved black plastic continues its rise.
Kicking off at midday, the live music will come from Adam
James Urwin, Elijah Miller, Indi & the Vegas, Simon Sunsinger
and Big Nothing, with a BedSlam Poetry competition thrown in
for good measure at 3pm. See facebook.com/bedpoprecordshop
for stage times.
Roll Your Own Records and Paul Miller (Modern Funk and
Soul Club) will be DJing through the day, with The RYoR boys
offering up their decks to give shoppers the chance to play what
they have bought.
With the bar open all day, what more could a music lover ask
for? Bedpop.co.uk

Beautiful,
non-intrusive
wedding
photography

ADVERTISE IN
THE NEXT ISSUE
CONTACT:
JULIA CROFTS
bedfordclangerads@gmail.com

07966 696784 / @ClangerAds

I THINK ITS TIME TO DUST OFF THE VINYL!

catlaneweddings.com
0770 684 8554

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

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

Looking for somewhere different

to hold your Christmas Party this year?
Need a space to celebrate with friends?
In search of somewhere for a Family Lunch?

Look no further!
We can seat up to 40 guests and will work with you
to plan the perfect festive party.
Call us on 01234 351104 to discuss your needs.

pavilion
b e d f o r d

p a r k

t 01234 351104
PavilionatthePark
Aderley Dogs 104x104.pdf
1
14/09/2016
12:16
w www.attheparkbedford.co.uk
@BedfordPavilion

PIZZA THE
ACTION

TH E
C L A NG E
R

NOVEMBER 2016

BITS &
BOBS

On Saturday 8th October, families in the Castle Road

area were treated to a takeaway with a difference. For
the second time this year, local resident (and Clanger
recipe contributor) Dan Fattorini opened up his kitchen
and pizza oven to deliver dozens of meals in aid of Keech
Hospice. Also cooking was TV Chef Joey Hurd of The
Saturday Show, Saturday Kitchen and Munch Box who
kindly gave his time to come and help out just days after
judging the National Pizza Awards!
We had great support from local businesses, said
Dan. The Higgins Pantry provided all of the flour and
dough-making facilities and the star raffle prize while
Foods of Italy donated all the other ingredients. After
nearly a hundred pizzas and sides were served, the night
raised over 1,100 which will go straight to Keech
Hospice to provide much needed care.
For more information or to donate please go to keech.org.uk
and to stay up to date with future such events, search Facebook
for Pizzas for Keech and Fine Dining for Keech.
Check out Dans recipes on thebedfordclanger.com

MY GIRL THE
RIVER AND THE
UNIVERSAL WAVE
We give the cd to John Giddings, the director of the Isle of Wight in
January of this year. He likes the name so he listens to the album. He
enjoys the album so he invites us to play the Isle of Wight festival
in June. We do it. We think no more about it. We play some small
but perfectly formed events throughout the rest of the summer. We
are finding our feet, our look, our place, our persona, our sound,
our presence. I make a massive investment and go off to the States
for three weeks alone to accept a night at the Bluebird Caf in
Nashville, Tennessee (yes it really does exist). I perform in New
Orleans. I sing to my grandparents and sister and uncle in the
mausoleum. I hug family. I go to the Americana Festival in Nashville
and schmooze my backside right off and in the midst of this I get an
email from John Giddings asking us to support Suzanne Vega on her
four upcoming UK tour dates in two and weeks time. I am floored.
Joe always said the call WILL come and youve got to be ready. And
we were ready. The compliments, the experience, the cd sales and
the love were all through the roof. And to perform with one of my
musical heroes was like attending a master class in artistry and performance every night. Thank you Universal Wave. mygirltheriver.com

INTERVIEW: TAPE FACE

CM

MY

STAND-UP COMEDY WITH NO TALKING, DRAMA WITH

NO ACTING AND PUNCH LINES WITH NO WORDS.

CY

CMY

Three years ago, the Boy with Tape on his Face (aka Sam Willis), performed at Bedford
School Theatre as part of Bedfringe. Bedfringe director, James Pharaoh, always gives us his
top tips, and in 2013, he was singing Tape Faces praises. Of course we arranged an interview and went to see the show. As usual, James recommendation was spot on, the show
was amazing and weve been following Tape Faces progress ever since.
So imagine our surprise when he popped up on our Facebook feed, as a finalist on this
years Americas Got Talent.
Fresh from his success in the US, Sam is performing at the Stables MK on 8th November
and we chatted to him about the tour, the Tape Face evolution and world domination

the puddin club

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

Dont let the weekend finish too early now open Sundays until 6pm!
Serving Coffee, Cocktails, Cake and more!
Last orders for puddings and alcohol is 5pm

You can either have private hire in the evening

(not Fridays) or for smaller gatherings we can
reserve you a table. If you need it to be in a
lunchtime then pre-order?

get your just desserts

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

So, what made you apply for Americas Got Talent?

I wanted to break the US, but knew that it had taken over six years to establish myself in the UK, so I was looking at a decade of
touring to become known in America. I realised that I could get immediate exposure through a show like Americas Got Talent, so
decided to make sure I got out of it what I wanted. I made it into the top ten and achieved global recognition! The oven gloves clip
from the show has received 45 million views and Ive gained 60,000 twitter followers.
Did you ever appear as Sam?
I never spoke on the show; I was just Tape Face. When Ive got the tape on I can be pretty naughty and get away with anything. I
knew the host of the show found it hard to communicate with me, so I made it as difficult as possible! Despite not coming in the top
three, I was selected to appear at the Americas Got Talent Vegas shows, which just goes to show that the underdog can still get the
prize.
What can the Stables audience expect from your show?
The show were touring is a best of, but its got more of a storyline, a structure and weve created a more theatrical setting. Ive
gone from a one-man-band, packing the props into the back of my car after a show, to travelling with trucks, sets and around two
tonnes of gear. Its now much more visual and looks other worldly and its much more enjoyable for me to perform.
How have you evolved the show?
I began working with a director and then collaborated with the production company Kilimanjaro Live and Gag Reflex who have
realised my ideas and brought them to life. Our lighting designer, Matt Brittan has managed to nail so many subtle moments that the
show is a magical experience.
It sounds beautiful. We hope we can get hold of some tickets.
Thank you!
Tuesday 8th November at The Stables MK, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU
Box Office - 01908 280800 stables@stables.org (limited tickets still available at time of going to press)
http://www.theboywithtapeonhisface.com/

IN THE WORDS OF HOMER SIMPSON... MMMM PIZZA!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

NOT ONE, BUT TWO INTERVIEWS
THIS WEEK FROM THE CLANGERS
FRIEND-TO-THE-STARS,
LLOYD LUGSDEN.

NOVEMBER 2016

TH E R
E
C L A NG

YEAH!
H
O
.
.
.
C
I
M US

THERES PLENTY OF LIVE MUSIC TO BE

HAD THIS NOVEMBER INCLUDING:
Brit Pop heritage & jangles with The Bluetones, 10th November @ Esquires
Consica Jazz, 10th November @ The Pavilion in Bedford Park

DJ set from poet/rapper Scroobius Pip, 11th November @ Esquires

BedPop Record Shop (ft live music & DJs) , 12th November @ Ent Shed, Gordon Arms (see pages 6 & 7 for more info)
Psychfolkfuzzrock from Wolf People, 17th November @ Esquires

Indie dance & undercuts with Jesus Jones, 18th November @ Esquires
Upcoming indie with Gengahr, 19th November @ Esquires

Raucous Swamp Rock n Roll with Jim Jones and the Righteous Mind, 25th November @ Esquires

INTERVIEW: WOLF
PEOPLE: WATCH THEM
WRECK THE MIC - PSYCH !
Thursday 17th November @ Esquires
Fuzz rockers Wolf People return with a new album Ruins and tour this November,
including a date at Esquires on Thursday 17th November. A great live act, they seamlessly
weave delicate sounds with massive slabs of sonic-ness. Fuzz fan Lloyd got to speak to
Bedfordian front man, Jack Sharp about Bedford and the new long player (you can read
the full interview on the bedfordclanger.com website).

SIDE A: BEDFORD TOWN...

INTERVIEW: WE ARE SCIENTISTS

Thursday 3rd November at Esquires
We Are Scientists hit the music scene at the turn of the
millenia with their wry, angular indie/punk/pop and
funny promo videos. Theyve toured around the world
and are stopping off at Bedford Esquires on Thursday 3rd
November. Be sure to check them out: theyre loud, tight,
highly melodic and quite witty between songs. Between
cooking tea for the kids and re-setting my Skype account
[living the dream Lloyd Ed] I got to talk to Chris Cain,
bassist and vocalist from the band - while he was between
sound checking and playing in Austria that night. I dialled
the Skype and the first thing I heard was the reassuringly
rock n roll sound of a beer bottle top popping open... PS:
We dont think Mark Kermodes going to be quaking in his
boots following WASs film review during the interview
Bedford Clanger: What do you like about England?
We Are Scientists: Well there is no language barrier, so
that makes life easier if youre ordering food etc also, the
curry is great, not bettered in many countries, the curry in
New York is not too good, though it is good in Toronto.
BC: What do you dislike about England?
WAS: hmm, the only tangible thing which is a bummer is
the identical nature of many of the high streets nowadays,
with the same shops. In America at least theyre all
contained in shopping malls...
BC: Live, youre quite amusing with chat between songs,
would you consider a Monkees style TV show?
WAS: Yes! Though we dont get too many offers about this
but would love to do something like that...
BC: Most unusual venue played?
WAS: We played The Great Escape festival in Brighton a
couple of years ago and the Ones to Watch stage was in a
Levis store and the stage was but right up above a bar in
the air. There were no side barriers so youd go to the end
of the stage and hopefully not fall off - I was made braver

WHAT A MUSICAL TREAT THIS MONTH!

by having a couple of beers before the show. Got lucky that

night by not falling off...
BC: Fave comedy film?
WAS: Its hard to choose an all-time favourite but a recent
one was Balls Out - Gary the Tennis Coach starring Seann
William Scott playing the titular tennis coach - its a piece
of dog turd but its funny.
BC: Most interesting gift from a fan?
WAS: We do get some quite considered gifts, theres a fan in
Portland called Adrien who made various...how can I describe
it? Like voodoo dolls of us, three or four with different looks
with different albums. But it wasnt sinister like voodoo dolls,
as she didnt keep them, she gave them to us...
BC: Name some elements on the periodic table (they are
Scientists...)
WAS: Silver, gold, platinum, do you want any more? Noble
gases....?
BC: Any fave recipes?
WAS: There are two secret recipes that my mum has, that I
dont even know, one is a Serbian bean soup, like a heavy
stew with beans and sausages which we have at a Super
Bowl parties and other events.
BC: Can you name the cats on your first album cover ?
(fair enough if you cant)
WAS: Those cats were from a litter from a stray cat that
Keith had, the cat was passed on for different reasons...
so the kittens didnt really have names until they were
re-homed...
BC: Have you ever seen a ghost?
WAS: No, I havent, nor have I even felt any vibe or had
a shiver down my spine. Keith is fascinated by them and
actively seeks them, we go on ghost tours if we can in
different cities like Edinburgh and London.
We Are Scientists play Bedford Esquires on Thursday
3rd November. Tickets are 16.50 from Dannys bar,
Esquires, Marios Hair Design and seetickets.com

Bedford Clanger: Fave place to eat in Bedford?

Jack Sharp: Theres an Indian take away in Midland road called Bala and its amazing.
BC: If you were mayor of Bedford what would add or change to the town?
JS: Hmm, Id have a record shop/bar or, rather selfishly, a swimming pool near my house.
BC: Favourite Bedfordshire village?
JS: Old Warden? Thats quite posh...I guess Clophill, as its the village I grew up in plus
there are plenty of spooky local stories, Clophill church, the Hanratty A6 murder and plenty
of other stuff.
BC: Most interesting local venue youve played?
JS: Bromham Mill is a lovely venue, we first played in the cafe once which was a bit
weird as it was un-amplified and someone was trying to talk to us while we were playing!
BC: Have you been to the Anglian Wolf Society?
JS: No but Tom has, Id like to go, maybe we could get special discount to get in there...
BC: First band you saw in Bedford?
JS: That would have been S*M*A*S*H at the old Bedford Civic Theatre in around 1995?
There was a matinee planned for younger ones but that was cancelled and the evening
show was all ages. A great first gig; punky, sweaty, stagediving, then get picked up by
your mum!
BC: Fave pub in Bedford?
JS: Thats a tricky one, there are a few nice ones but Id have to say the Welly
(Wellington Arms)

SIDE B: BAND TALK...

BC: Most interesting country/town have you played since the last album?
JS: The summer before last we played Pickathon Festival in Portland, Oregon which was
great - set in a woods, we stayed in a tent and the festival had a carbon neutral theme, so
everyone would clear up, there was no litter at all...
BC: Influences on the new album?
JS: As a band we dont always get the chance to get together until were recording and
touring, so when were in the van, thats when we play stuff. It has been early UK gritty
rock and Gangster rap (though that doesnt directly come across in the music).
BC: aww, no sirens and posturing then...
JS: Folk music doesnt really play well in a van, thats better for headphones...
BC: You got folky as MarissaJacknDavey - are there any other side projects lined up?
JS: Yes, Ive been performing with Marissa & Davey, doing the folk/harmony thing, Tom
(drums) has been working with a Swedish band, Joe (guitar) recently had a baby, so thats
his side project and Dan (bass) has been doing solo stuff as well. I think its good to do
our own stuff and get the folk or whatever out of our system, then get back to the band.
BC: Who did the artwork for the new album?
JS: A guy called Luke Insect, who we were lucky to get, a great renowned graphic artist.
We originally got to know him as a friend of someone at the record label, and did a cover
back in 2006, so as its 10 years its gone full circle with the new artwork...
Wolf People play Bedford Esquires, Thursday 17th November. Tickets 10 in advance
Seetickets.com, Esquires Bar, Planet Boutique and Marios Hair Design in Kempston.

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

C

OUR PICK OF THE BEST OF

THIS MONTHS THEATRE AND
COMEDY BY PAULA WALKER.

TH E E R
L A NG

TR
A
E
H
T

NOVEMBER 2016

THE QUARRY
THEATRE AT ST LUKES
Paul Revill

Brennan Reece

CASTLE COMEDY

ADOLF

Thursday 3rd November 7.30pm. Tickets: 12 (10 concessions)

Age guidance: 13+ (some strong language)
The 20th centurys most notorious tyrant is daringly and divisively brought to the stage in one of the most
successful and powerful solo works ever presented.
Looking uncomfortably like the Fhrer, Utton stands before a huge Nazi banner, addressing his party
faithful. He furnishes his audience with an acute anatomy of fascism; its ideological justifications, its
poisoned utopias. They are in the presence of an utterly compelling idealist, and are helplessly drawn in to
his warped logic. Hitlers final performance seems over, as he settles into pre-suicidal contemplation.
We know the rest... But Utton has reserved a sting for his tale... A sting so powerful that it pushes the
audience into looking within themselves to question their own prejudice and intolerance. Utton doesnt
stop in the bunker. He plumbs the very source of racism and exposes just how near the surface of our own
lives lurks its insidious influence.
This is live theatre at its best, with a theme and subject that touches us all. It is powerful, dramatic,
challenging, divisive, illustrative and educational. It is utterly provocative and totally necessary. Everyone
should experience it.
Tickets available www.quarrytheatre.org.uk or 01234 362337

KEY CHANGE

Friday 4th November 7.30pm

Tickets: 12 (10 concessions)
Age guidance: 12+
What do women in prison say to a captured audience of men?
Devised with women in Her Majestys Prison Low Newton to tour to male prisons, Key Change carries
the stories of some of the UKs most marginalised women over the razor wire through an intense, raw and
illuminating portrayal of women in prison.
A touching, empowering work that hits the hat-trick of great script, direction and performance.
Tickets available www.quarrytheatre.org.uk or 01234 362337

LES MISRABLES
(SCHOOL EDITION)

Wednesday 7th - Saturday 10th December 7.30pm;

Saturday 10 December 2.30pm
Tickets: 13 (concessions 12) Group deal 20 for 200
Having advertised locally and conducted auditions, Toffe Apple
Productions (no, I havent forgotten the e) are putting on a fullystaged show of this much loved musical, performed entirely by
school children.
Professionally made scenery, including a full-sized barricade,
and brand new costumes, as well as a live band, mean this is not
going to be the usual school production. Over 25 children from Bedford and the surrounding area will
be performing on stage and other local students will be involved in sound, lighting and back stage, giving
them the opportunity to learn theatre skills through taking part in a full length production.
It sounds amazing. Vive la Revolution!
Tickets can be purchased by calling 07951424574 or online at
www.ticketsource.co.uk/toffe-apple-productions

10

The Gordon Arms, Bedford. 8.15pm Thursday November 10th (doors open at 6.30pm)
Bedford is lucky enough to be home to one of the best small independent comedy clubs in the countr. Castle Comedy at
The Gordon Arms, Ent Shed has been welcoming the best stand ups from around the UK for nearly 5 years. With star
names such as Josh Widdicombe, Katherine Ryan and James Acaster performing at the club it is no wonder it has regular
sell out shows!
On Thursday 10th November there is a classic mixed bill of comedy talent which is sure to get everyone laughing. Headlining the show is Gordon Southern who is the international word clown! His upbeat and energetic delivery
combined with his fantastically funny observational comedy & quick witted improvisation has secured his place as
an audience favourite all over the world. He spends several months every year performing in Australia at their major
comedy festivals; this has led to both award nominations and television performances. This year he appeared on the
hugely popular Stand and Deliver on ABC2 Australia.
Brennan Reece is one of the hottest young comics out there, he is destined for super stardom! This year he was
nominated for Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Festival and received a nomination for Best Show at the Perth Fringe
World festival. He has only been doing stand up for a few years but winning the English Comedian Of The Year 2015
and coming 2nd in the BBC New Comedy Award in 2015 means he is a spectacular talent!
The show will also feature award winning comedian Paul F Taylor. Paul is developing a cult following because of his
surreal knock about style that is reminiscent of Harry Hill!
The show will be hosted by Bedford favourite, Paul Revill.
The shows sell out quickly, with the Dinner & Show tickets being particularly popular, so be sure to book early to
avoid disappointment! Doors open 6.30pm, Shows start at 8.15pm and tickets are 8 (6 NUS) or if you fancy a treat,
you can buy 16/tickets, which include a pre, show meal and glass of wine from the Gordon Arms.
To book visit www.castlecomedy.co.uk

THE PLACE THEATRE

REVIEW: DARE DEVIL RIDES TO JARAMA

Wednesday 30 November 7.30pm. Tickets: 10 (concessions 8.50)

Neil Gores new play, tells the true story of two unlikely friends who volunteered to join the International Brigades
during the Spanish Civil War. The play was commissioned by the International Brigades Memorial Trust and has
been developed by Townsend Productions at the Place Theatre in Bedford. The play was previewed at the Place in
September before heading out on tour.
Daredevil Rides to Jarama is a wonderfully engaging two-man show that perfectly captures the idealism of those
opposed to fascism with stirring songs, and despite the gravitas of the subject matter, no little fun and humour. I came
away feeling inspired by the courage and self-sacrifice of the International Brigades and a renewed interest in their
role during the Spanish Civil War. Ive begun re-reading For Whom the Bell Tolls in direct response to the play.
Clem Beckett (played wonderfully by David Heywood
all the other characters are brought to life by Gore) was born
in Oldham in 1906 and rode the wall of death at fairgrounds,
earning the nickname Dare Devil Beckett. He was also a
speedway rider and we learn that he unionised the sport and
formed Sheffield Tigers in 1929. The staging of the wall of
death was particularly successful.
Upon the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War the
Communist Party of Great Britain helped establish
International Brigades. Clem Beckett volunteered to go
to Spain to defend the Popular Front government with
Christopher Spriggy Caudwell. As an aeronautical
engineer and part-time poet he made an unlikely friend.
Clem and Chris were sent to Jarama Valley in 1937 where
they lost their lives covering their battalions retreat.
This breadth of history that the play covers is incredible and it highlights the importance of the Spanish Civil
War as the focus of the struggle of the international labour
movement. I thoroughly enjoyed it and it will appeal to
anyone with an interest in politics, the trade union movement
and the rise of fascism in the inter-war period. Another
Townsend triumph!
Tickets available from www.theplacebedford.org.uk

IM LOOKING FORWARD TO A GOOD LAUGH!

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

GARDENING:

NOVEMBER 2016

TH E
R
C L A NG E
& ETHICS
G
N
I
N
E
D
GAR

MICROGREEN MAGIC
Photo: Forest Owl Adventures

IF YOU GO DOWN TO
THE WOODS TODAY
By Lucy Bywater

BY JANE PERRONE @JANEPERRONE / PERRONE.BLOGS.COM

Given the theme of this months Clanger, I thought Id take a look at one of the smallest gardening projects - growing microgreens. This is about as
far from Monty Don in his signature blue jacket pricking out delphiniums in his humungous garden as you can get: gardening for regular folks with
perhaps only a windowsill as their growing space.
The principle is this: edible seedlings take less than a month to grow, and despite their diminutive size, they pack a punch when it comes to flavour.
You can grow microgreens from just about any veg seed (except parsnip - their seedlings are poisonous), but the ones that work best are really
flavoursome veg and herbs such as coriander, fenugreek, radish and rocket. You can sprinkle microgreens onto salads, soups and sandwich fillings,
even whizz them into smoothies.
This approach is thrifty, too: seeds are often on sale at this time of year, so you can buy them in large quantities; or, even cheaper, you can buy large
bags of coriander, fennel and fenugreek seeds from the supermarket and sow those.
Start out with a few plastic seed trays, or food trays with holes in the bottom. Put seed compost in the bottom to the depth of a few centimetres,
water it and firm down with your hands. Sow the seed thickly on the top of the compost, and press it in gently. If you add more compost on top,
youll find the young seedlings take on a crusty mantle of soil as they push up and sprout. This is most annoying, as its hard to wash off without
damaging the tender cotyledons (which is a fancy word for the first set of leaves a newly germinated seed grows), so instead cover the tray with damp
newspaper to exclude light until the seedlings are up - then remove the paper once theyve made an appearance. Theyll green up in no time.
If you prefer to do your growing in a greenhouse or cold frame outside (you really need some sort of cover at this time of year), you can sow seeds
into a stretch of guttering, following the same instructions as above. If you prefer something prettier, a wicker basket lined with a woollen jumper also
works a treat. When youre ready to harvest, just snip the microgreens off just above soil level. They wont regrow, but if you sow new batches every
ten days or so, youll have a regular supply. If you prefer something that regrows, try sowing batches of dried peas from the supermarket in the same
fashion - provided you leave one set of leaves behind when you snip, they will regrow several times before they run out of steam.

Quick, quick, sloe

Further to my column about foraging last month, its worth noting that November is the traditional month for foraging sloes, which seem to be taking
over from blackberries as the harvest of choice for the newbie forager. There are many places to forage sloes in and around Bedford. Make sure you
know exactly what you are looking for before you start - go with an experienced friend, and consult a good foraging book. One of the first rules of
foraging is to leave the site looking exactly as you left it - in other words, dont strip the bush bare, leaving plenty for other people and for wildlife. If
sloe gin isnt your thing, try crab apples for jelly, Japanese quince for fruit leathers or rosehips for syrup. The Abundance Bedford Facebook group is
always happy to help, so do come and join us if you want to learn the ropes.

Children are firmly back into the autumn term and at the time of
writing the weather is still pretty good. (Its my favourite time of
year anyway). Not all children thrive in a traditional classroom
environment however, and even for those that do, time outside
is what young children especially seem to love. According to the
ethos of the fast-growing Forest School movement, outdoor play
and learning is where confidence, independence and self-esteem
can really grow. It seems to make sense. Is it a primal thing?
We live in a digital age but hands-on learning in a natural
environment, the relative freedom of the woods and the chance
also to learn (safely) about risk are essential to a childs growth and
development. And useful, you might argue, for us adults too!
The current education system means that we test children now
more than ever before from their very first days at school with
the result that many become, unhappily, just awfully good at jumping
through hoops. Children who begin school later and undergo far less
formal written testing, such as in Finland, have generally far excelled
our children in educational terms by the time they leave school.
Many things may not best be learned or absorbed just by looking at a
screen, a book or a whiteboard for most of the day. And, put simply,
we are absolutely not designed to sit still for hours on end.
The outdoors can obviously encourage learning about the
natural environment but can also foster skills such as teamwork
and problem solving, encouraging curiosity and adventure as well
as spatial awareness, motor development and the development of
maths and communication skills. Also climbing trees, making a
den or just hunting for bugs or bird watching is fun.
We are genuinely lucky in Bedford to have easy access to
wonderful big open spaces such as Mowsbury, Russell, Priory
and Bedford Parks as well as easy access to open country on foot/
bike along our beautiful River Great Ouse, both eastwards and
westwards. And it doesnt cost a penny to enjoy. Just along the A1
is the RSPB Lodge at Sandy, a great place see birds in their natural
habitat and learn more about flora and fauna in Bedfordshire. All
you need is comfortable shoes, a pair of binoculars and youre off!
I think autumn is one of the best times of year to benefit from these
places in every sense, whatever your age.
If youre interested in finding out more visit:
Forest Owl Adventures. forestowl.co.uk
Marston Vale Forest School. Marstonvale.forestschool.co.uk
RSPB, Sandy. rspb.org.uk
Bushcraft at Priory Marina. Woodland-ways.co.uk

Follow me online at janeperrone.com

creating
a positive
reaction
http://reactionvisual.media

I WISH ID GONE TO A FOREST SCHOOL!

11

THE BEDFORD CLANGER 

BEDFORD
COLLEGE: BRIDGE

A ND F

INALL
Y...

Got a creative brief? Need a new logo or branding?

Then we can highly recommend you take advantage
of Bedford Colleges Bridge project.
From the 6th-29th January 2017, Bedford
Colleges Award Winning Higher National Diploma
PRESS RELEASE
Graphic Design Course will again be open for
business. Trading as Bridge, a student team guided
by tutors Jeffrey Tribe, Danny Stijelja and David Litchfield (along with the professional backing of Bonfire
Design and We Can Creative), are inviting local businesses
andJanuary
individuals
to employ
teams Higher
for the
From the 6-29
2017, Bedford
Collegesstudent
Award Winning
National
Diploma
Design
again be open
for business. Trading as
design of logos, adverts, leaflets and any other small
print Graphic
items for
justCourse
170 will
(excluding
VAT).
Bridge, a student team guided by Tutors Jeffrey Tribe, Danny Stijelja and
The course at Bedford College has established itself
both locally and nationally as a high quality proviDavid Litchfield (along with the professional backing of Bonfire Design and
sion for Graphic Design, winning countless awardsWe
andCan
competitions,
said Jeffrey.
Students
work closely
Creative), are inviting
local businesses
and individuals
to employ
student
teams for the
design of logos,
adverts,
andBonfire
any other small
with leading Design Consultancies, have a professional
mentoring
arrangement
with
localleaflets
agency
print items for an astonishing one-off flat fee of only 170 (excluding VAT).
Design and are recognised as the primary local provider of new creative talent; credentials that will guarantee outstanding service and creativity. In past yearsThe
thecourse
students
have successfully
advertising
at Bedford
has establisheddeveloped
itself both locally
and nationally as
quality
provisionand
for Graphic
Design,
winning countless
awards and
campaigns for private schools, a national health anda high
medical
supplier
identities
for architects,
museums
competitions. Students work closely with leading Design Consultancies, have
and galleries and branding for the Clanger, BedPopa and
a
wide
range
of
other
businesses.
professional mentoring arrangement with local Agency Bonfire Design
The initiative provides students with valuable commercial
experience
helps
them
to bridge
linktalent.
and are recognised
as theand
primary
local
provider
of new the
creative
Credentials
that willvaluable
guaranteefunding
outstanding
and
creativity.
between client design needs and education. Additionally,
it raises
toservice
enable
the
courseIn past years
our students have successfully developed advertising campaigns for private
to exhibit their work in June 2017 at D&ADs (Design
and Art Directions) New Blood annual graduate
schools, a national health and medical supplier and identities for architects,
exhibition, which showcases the best emerging newmuseums
UK talent.
and galleries and a wide range of other businesses.
If youd like to submit a creative brief, contact the Course Tutor Jeffrey Tribe and outline your needs.
The initiative will provide students with valuable commercial experience and
Work can be booked and scheduled in from now.help
Deadline
for submissions Monday 6 January 2017.
them to bridge the link between client design needs and education.
jtribe@bedford.ac.uk T: 01234 291412
Additionally, it will raise valuable funding to enable the course to exhibit their
work in June 2017 at D&ADs (Design and Art Directions) New Blood annual
graduate exhibition, which showcases the best emerging new UK talent.

Start 2016 with some fresh new creative communications for an extraordinary
price. Contact the Course Tutor Jeffrey Tribe and outline your needs. Work can
be booked and scheduled in from September 2016. Deadline for submissions
Monday 6 January 2017.
jtribe@bedford.ac.uk
T: 01234 291412

September 2016

SMALL YET MIGHTY CHANGES

By Neil Frankel, Director of Coaching @ Riverside Tennis Club

Make changes to your weekly routine small things can make a mighty difference. Go online and you can
check out some of the changes that Joanna Konta made in her game to help her rise into the Worlds Top
Ten. Although its hard to pack it all in with everyones busy lifestyles, it only takes a relatively short space
of time to form a good habit (or a not so good one so watch out for that!).
We know that regular exercise will make you feel great tons of endorphins surging around your
body, reducing your stress levels and giving you more energy throughout the week. If youre up for a new
challenge, why not start your new years resolution early: come and join us at one of our Cardio Tennis
Sessions. Were offering a free trial Cardio Tennis Session for Clanger fans throughout November &
December at Riverside. Sessions run on Mondays at 9.15am, Wednesdays at 6pm and Saturdays at 6.55am.
The session is similar to a circuits class but with the added element of hitting a ton of tennis balls you
dont need any tennis skills or equipment to come and melt calories with us and its great fun for all levels.
Weve also made some small changes with our Riverside Tennis Foundation over the year and Rob Stean
is now heading up the programme. He will be hitting the road in November taking sessions in ten local
schools. Well be offering discounts to players for their first term with us at Riverside and Rob will also
be handing out our coveted Golden Envelopes to bring together some of the best local talent into a special
squad well be running at the club.
Come and see what everyone is talking about. doc@riversidetennisbedford.co.uk

12

NOVEMBER 2016

TH E
C L A NG
ER

REDISCOVERING
BEDFORD
By Darren Rose

The nights are drawing in, and its actually getting harder for me to photograph sunrises and sunsets as these are
beginning to clash with either my commute or family commitments. However, that just means its easier to experiment with taking pictures at night.
Night photography is normally about looking upwards and shooting the stars, or, if youre lucky, the Milky
Way. Unfortunately, living in an urban area like Bedford, light pollution makes astro photography very hard to do.
However, it doesnt mean we should abandon the idea of night photography altogether. Shooting at night emphasises
the shape of objects through silhouettes. The darkness will hide or remove the distraction of detail and can lead to
some very interesting images and compositions.
This months picture was taken after the sun had well and truly gone down at the Priory Marina. Illuminated by
ambient light only, the total exposure time was about 8 minutes. I wish I had taken my thermos with me. Why not
head out in the evenings and give shooting at night a go?
If you would like to see more of my images from Bedfordshire and beyond, then I can be found online.
Website www.winterrosephotography.com / Facebook www.facebook.com/winterrosephotos