APRIL 2019 THEBEDFORDCLANGER.COM

THE BEDFORDCLANGER YOUR CULTURAL GUIDE TO THE BEST OF

Featuring RECORD STORE DAY / SPRING ARTISAN FAIR / THE EMBANKMENT’S 10TH BIRTHDAY / theatre / live music & more... Letter from the Editor This month we’re mostly looking forward to Record Store Day, the Spring Artisan Fair and two new exhibitions at the Higgins. As ever, there’s a wealth of live music (read our interview with Garry Christian on page 12) plus lots of theatre to choose from too. We’ve got the low-down on the Embankment’s tenth birthday celebrations (page 14), plus you can find out the best bits of Bedford, according to Spectacularts’ Sharon de Lionardis on page 15. Happy Easter! Team Clanger

Made in Bedford at Number 13

We’re really excited that the team behind the Made in Bedford artisan fairs have opened their new café and shop at Number 13 in St Paul’s Square. Situated next to the Corn Exchange, Made in Bedford at Number 13 stocks products from 12 local makers, designers and crafters, with exhibitions by selected artists curated by Talia Giles. The café will serve vegetarian and vegan fare from locally sourced ingredients and will be regularly hosting guest chefs. “Everything we’ve used in the shopfit has been repurposed or sourced second-hand,” said Made in Bedford founder, Rachel Atkinson. “The whole ethos is to be ethically sustainable, providing a sales platform for the talented creatives in our area.” Rachel’s Made in Bedford journey began at Bromham Mill in early 2016, where she ran the café and set up a small shop selling local products. The artisan fairs at the Harpur Suite and Corn Exchange followed from October 2016 and Rachel tested the town centre retail concept at St Cuthbert’s Street last year. “I wanted to reprise the café/shop formula that was so successful at Bromham Mill,” said Rachel. “Number 13 is the perfect venue for us. I’m loving it in here and I’m hoping that we’ll encourage customers to see Bedford in a different light.”

Made in Bedford at Number 13 will be open 9.30am – 4.30pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

Team Clanger Editor: Erica Roffe @bedfordclanger [email protected] Commercial Director: Julia Crofts @clangerads [email protected] Design: Curtis Reeve [email protected] instagram: @cr.eativedesign Food: Stephen Bywater @authorbywater Theatre: Paula Walker @pauliwauli2 Website: Alec East @ Narrative Industries

2 The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 #Bedfordindies RECORD STORE DAY BEDFORD FLEA

#bedfordindies: Record Store Day On Saturday 13 April, Slide Record Shop will be a hive of activity as part of the annual Record Store Day celebrations. Last year’s event saw eager customers queuing the length of the Arcade, hoping to get their hands on the prized limited-edition vinyl. This year, owners Warren Alsopp and Nerys Bannister are hoping to share the love with other Bedford retailers. With customers coming from far and wide, it’s the perfect opportunity to encourage visitors to make the most of their day in Bedford. “We want people who travel in to Bedford to also explore the other indies in town,” said Nerys. “We’ll be promoting Bedford as a great place to visit for the day.” Slide will be shouting about other #bedfordindies on their social media in the run up to Record Store Day and the hope is that other businesses will run special promotions on the day. Keep an eye on their Facebook page, plus the #bedfordindies Instagram for updates nearer the time.

Bedford Flea – 2019 dates released Inspired by traditional French brocante markets, Bedford Flea is back this summer. The confirmed dates are 12 May, 21 July and 8 September. From 11am – 4pm, Bedford Flea is the perfect way to spend a lazy, sunny Sunday, browsing the unique and eclectic stalls of quirky collectables, fabulous furniture, pre-loved books, vintage, vinyl, jewellery, clothing, street food and beer. The brilliant Affordable Art Market will return and the team have added a local food producers’ market too. Make a date in your diary and we look forward to seeing you there! bedpop.co.uk

The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 3 At the Higgins Bedford…

New exhibitions at the Higgins Bedford From 6 April, two new exhibitions open at the Higgins Bedford. Round and Round the Garden – A Celebration of Horticulture in Art celebrates our human fascination with gardens. The exhibition observes how artists have been inspired by gardens and explores the different ideas of gardens. For the Pre-Raphaelite artist, John Everett Millais, gardens were settings for tragic love stories, Sickert brought the garden inside for his still lives and Joan Eardley braved the weather to paint Scottish wild flowers. The Camden Town artist Charles Ginner painted his own suburban garden whilst Lucian Freud and Graham Sutherland travelled further afield to paint continental gardens and exotic plants. The exhibition has been organised in collaboration with Christiana Payne, Professor of History of Art at Oxford Brookes University. In addition, Theatre of The Widdershins have created a sensory installation within the gallery. HAVE AA GO GO The Journey from Bunyan to the Brickworks explores the journey of pride, inspiration and hope made by who was imprisoned and persecuted for his beliefs, alongside the difficult journeys to Bedford by those who came to WITH HARPURHARPUR work at the brickworks after the Second World War. Sunday 19 May 2019 / 11am to 4pm This exhibition has been formed in partnership with John Bunyan Museum and The Bedford Chronicles, first exhibited in 2017 and funded by the Heritage Bedford Park Lottery Fund, now re-displayed with additional objects and images from The Higgins’ own collection. Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD thehigginsbedford.org.uk

New blue plaques honour dynamic Victorian duo

CLIMBING • ZORBING • ARCHERY • FOOTBALL • POTHOLING Joshua and Hester Hawkins – both extraordinary figures in Bedford’s history – have been recognised with the unveiling of a new plaque. • The fifth in a series of new blue plaques around the town, it’s situated on the wall of 18 Linden Road, the couple’s former address and now INFLATABLE ASSAULT COURSE GENTLE EXERCISE & RELAXATION home to the YMCA. CYCLE COURSE • ARTS AND CRAFTS • COMMUNITY CHOIRS To coincide with the unveiling, local historians, Stuart Antrobus and Mary McKeown, have curated an exhibition on the second floor of • • Bedford Central Library, running until Monday 29 April. BOWLING DANCE DEMOS CULTURAL & SPORTING GROUPS As five times mayor, businessman and editor of the Times, Joshua Hawkins was pivotal in the provision of some of Bedford’s AND MUCH MORE most recognisable landmarks including Bedford Park, the Embankment, County Bridge and the suspension bridge. Also honoured on the plaque, Hester Hawkins was equally highly regarded in her capacity as a novelist, astronomer and hymn writer – the couple forming a formidable and impactful force. www.harpurtrust.org.uk/have-a-go #haveago Joshua Hawkins’ name is preserved on four additional blue plaques throughout the town at County Bridge, Prebend Street; the Suspension Bridge; the old Fire Station, Mill Street and the main building at Bedford School.

4 The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 ALL ACTIVITIES ARE FREE, SO COME ALONG AND HAVE A GO!! HAVE AA GO GO WITH HARPUR WITH HARPUR Sunday 19 May 2019 / 11am to 4pm Bedford Park

CLIMBING • ZORBING • ARCHERY • FOOTBALL • POTHOLING INFLATABLE ASSAULT COURSE • GENTLE EXERCISE & RELAXATION CYCLE COURSE • ARTS AND CRAFTS • COMMUNITY CHOIRS BOWLING • DANCE DEMOS • CULTURAL & SPORTING GROUPS AND MUCH MORE

www.harpurtrust.org.uk/have-a-go #haveago

ALL ACTIVITIES ARE FREE, SO COME ALONG AND HAVE A GO!! UNIQUE BEDFORD

Panacea Museum celebrates its centenary Throughout 2019, the Panacea Museum will be holding events to commemorate the centenary of the Panacea Society. Ahead of an exhibition in May, the museum would love to hear Bedfordians’ experiences of the Panaceans. Perhaps you lived near Albany Road and the Haven, or someone you know worked there? Were you their paperboy or postman? Perhaps you remember your parents talking about the mysterious residents’ beliefs? Please email your memories or anecdotes to [email protected]

Made in Bedford’s Spring Artisan Fair Sunday 7 April from 10am – 4pm Harpur Suite and Bedford Corn Exchange The Made in Bedford Spring Artisan Fair is back in the heart of the town centre this month, showcasing over 80 of the area’s designers, makers, printers, jewellers, textile artists, food producers and more. Taking place in the Harpur Suite and the Corn Exchange, the Artisan Fair is Bedford’s largest local arts, crafts and produce fair. It takes place over three connected venues: the Corn Exchange, Harpur Suite and Howard Room and parking on the day is free in all council car parks. The best local artists, craftspeople and producers will be showcasing their work so this is an ideal opportunity to buy unique cards, gifts, homewares, handmade chocolates and other treats for Easter. After shopping, visitors will be able to relax with a cup of locally ground coffee and homemade cake or try a range of locally made food including vegan street food. There will be live music from Acoustic Amy, May Blossom - Vintage Songbird and James Burke, blacksmith demonstrations outside the Harpur Suite and live wood carving in the foyer. Admission is free.

Pallet Style book launched this month After months of meetings, project planning and secretive photo-shoots, Bedford-based designer, Nikkita Palmer and her partner Billy Barker can finally announce the launch of their new book on 6 April. ‘Pallet Style’ is a way to live a more sustainable and stylish life through DIY projects, capturing the growing trend for recycled furniture made from wooden pallets. Many Clanger readers will already be familiar with Nikkita Palmer Designs’ trademark rustic style, and now you can recreate your own pallet project at home. “We’re so excited for the book to come out,” said Nikkita. “It’s been in the pipeline for so long and we can’t wait to share it.” The projects in the book are divided into three sections – Furniture, Storage & Display and Accessories. Each project includes full step-by-step instructions and photographs. So, whether you want to make something in a weekend or embark on a more complex bespoke piece for your home, each of these projects are stylish and sustainable solutions, from Scandi-influenced urban apartments to rustic retreats. nikkitapalmer.com

6 The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 THE Theatre By Paula Walker CLANGER THEATRE

The pick of this month’s theatre by Paula Walker.

THE PLACE THEATRE

A Disappearing Act House Theatre & The Wardrobe Tuesday 2 and Wednesday 3 April Ensemble present: The Star at 3pm & 7:30pm Tickets: £10 Seekers Sunday 14 April at 2pm and 6pm The great magician, Philip Winterbottom, cordially requests your presence for his final act. Sadly, he’s dead. So...he won’t Tickets: £5 adults £8.50 children be there. Do you want to fly to outer space? Visit a space station? Become a Star Seeker? But, he’s left his son and his assistant very clear instructions for his memorial. Star Seekers Alph, Betty and Gammo need your help to save their space station, collect all the orbs and delve Join Philip’s family and friends for one final disappearing act. into the great unanswered question of the universe: what Incorporating magic, music and physical comedy, A do astronauts really have for tea? Fresh from a run at the Disappearing Act is an interactive, immersive show where the National Theatre, The Star Seekers is an interactive show that audience takes part as mourners attending a memorial service explores the limitless majesty of galaxies, the solar system, for a deceased magician. shooting stars and planets through songs, silliness and anti- gravity antics.

BedPopping www.bedpop.co.uk @BedPop

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The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 7 West End in Concert present: West End at The Movies Tuesday 16 April at 2:30pm and 7:30pm Tickets: £15 The cast of leading performers from London’s West End present a magical evening of live entertainment, featuring the very best songs from the smash hit movies throughout the decades. Featuring: Les Miserables, We Will Rock You, South Pacific, Singing in the Rain, Starlight Express, Phantom Of The Opera, Wicked, Godspell, Joseph and Cats... to name but a few!

Honk Junior Primrose Productions present Friday 19 April at 7pm Saturday 20 April at Hancock & Co 2pm and 7pm Saturday 27 April at 7:30pm Tickets: £13 Family ticket: £42 Tickets: £12 Honk Junior is a musical interpretation of Hans Christian Anderson’s Ugly Duckling with music and lyrics by Styles and Drewe. Come and join Honk in his journey to discover who and what he is in this great family-friendly musical.

The Pantaloons present: The Odyssey Wednesday 24 to Friday 26 April at 7:30pm (Friday 26 - Special #DramasInPyjamas edition) Tickets: £12 Sing, O Muse, of the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons and their Following James Hurns sell out tour of 2018, he is back with his hilarious new verse adaptation of the most epic journey of all time. popular one-man, many voices, celebration of radio comedy Stranded war hero Odysseus must struggle against the odds classic Hancock’s Half Hour. James, a multitalented actor to get home to his wife; but can he battle his way through and impressionist will be performing Hancock and Co, with grumpy gods, naughty nymphs, monocular monsters and over James voicing the entire cast. James is a master at recreating a hundred sleazy suitors? All whilst wearing an Ancient Greek the accents and personas of such iconic 20th century British robe that looks suspiciously like a bedsheet? Or will he and The favourites as Tony Hancock, Sidney James, Hattie Jacques, Bill Pantaloons remain all at sea? ‘Part alt rock band, part thespian; Kerrand and Kenneth Williams. The show is performed in the style wholly charming’ The Times of a radio performance in front of a live audience, bringing to life Note that this show is suitable for children 10+. the classic days of radio comedy.

The Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE Tickets and further information available at www.theplacetheatre.org.uk Flanders and Swan Friday 5 April at 7.30pm Tickets: £16.50 NT Live: All About Eve Thursday 11 April 7pm Tickets: £14.50

Tim FitzHigham has been performing this award-winning homage to the extraordinary comedic talents of Michael Flanders and Donald Swann to packed houses for over a decade. Accompanied by Duncan Walsh Atkins, and with their own unique style and humour, the boys present F&S’s classic songs and traditions interspersed with a few of their hidden All About Eve tells the story of Margo Channing. Legend. True and yet ever-sparkling gems. Fans and the uninitiated alike will star of the theatre. The spotlight is hers, always has been. But ‘wallow’ in this unique take on the work of two of Britain’s most now there’s Eve. Her biggest fan. Young, beautiful Eve. The iconic comedy songsmiths. Songs include: The Hippopotamus golden girl, the girl next door. But you know all about Eve… Song (Mud, Mud, Glorious Mud), The Gas Man Cometh, The Gnu don’t you…? Starring Gillian Anderson, this event is broadcast Song, Omnibus (or A Transport of Delights), and Madeira M’Dear. live from London’s glittering West End.

8 The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 RSC Live: As You Like It Wednesday 17 April 7pm Tickets: £14.50 Come into the forest; dare to change your state of mind. Rosalind is banished, wrestling with her heart and her head. With her cousin by her side, she journeys to a world of exile where barriers are broken down and all can discover their deeper selves. Director Kimberley Sykes directs this riotous, exhilarating version of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy.

The Carole King and James Tom Neenan: It’s Always Infinity Taylor Story Friday 26th April, 7.30pm Saturday 20 April at 7pm Tickets: £12 Tickets: £17 Highly recommended: Quarry Theatre Director’s Edinburgh Follow the incredible journey through the career of the six-time Fringe 2018 pick! Grammy Award winner and twenty-time platinum hit maker Carole Tom’s girlfriend has vanished… So he has done what any right- King and five-time Grammy Award winner & American folk legend minded man (and “theatre-maker”) would do in this situation, and James Taylor. turned his search for her into an “important” piece of “art”. Come This new “show-umentary” format gives a fascinating insight into “witness” it. (Nobody went missing in the creation of this show). the lives behind the music. Featuring passionate renditions of In reality… It’s Always Infinity is a narrative-driven character Fire and Rain, Sweet Baby James, I Feel the Earth Move, Natural comedy show about toxic masculinity and the questionable role Woman, You’ve Got a Friend and many more this astonishing back of the male creator, presented by a version of Tom who sees catalogue is realised with authenticity by Phoebe Katis and Dan himself as ‘one of the good guys’ but is anything but. It combines Clews, both well established artists in their own right. projection, storytelling and character comedy to tell a story where ‘Tom’ reveals what an awful person he is. The Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s, 26 St Peters St, Tom Neenan is the writer of The Mash Report, A Girl’s Guide to Bedford MK40 2NN TV, Mock The Week (BBC2), The Last Leg (Channel 4), Spotlight Tonight, The News Quiz, The Now Show (BBC Radio 4). He’s also Tickets and more information available at the writer & star of Tom Neenan’s The Hauntening (BBC Radio 4) quarrytheatre.org.uk or on 01234 362337

Sun 14 Apr 2.00pm and 6.00pm House Theatre & The Wardrobe Ensemble STAR SEEKERS Star Seekers Alph, Betty and Gammo need your help to save their space station, collect all the orbs and delve into the great unanswered question of the universe: what do astronauts really have for tea? £5 / £8.50 Wed 24 - Fri 26 Apr 7.30pm The Pantaloons THE ODYSSEY Stranded war hero Odysseus must struggle against the odds to get home to his wife; but can he battle his way through grumpy gods, naughty nymphs, monocular monsters and over a hundred sleazy suitors? All whilst wearing an Ancient Greek robe that looks suspiciously like a bedsheet? Or will he and The Pantaloons remain all at sea? £12/£10 (Friday #DramasInPyjamas) Sat 27 Apr 7.30pm Primrose Productions HANCOCK & CO Following James Hurns sell out tour of 2018, he is back with his popular one-man, many voices, celebration of radio comedy classic Hancocks Half Hour. Hancock and Co includes one lost episode of Hancocks Half Hour, and two episodes James has written himself in the same style as Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, with James voicing the entire cast. £12/£10 See website for further ticket details: www.theplacebedford.org.uk/tickets or call the box office on01234 354321

The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 9 What’s on…April

Board Game Evening at Ready Bedford Town Band: 125th Steady Roll anniversary concert Friday 5 April from 7pm 7pm Saturday 6 April at Bedford Corn Exchange Over 60 players will be performing to celebrate the Town Band’s 125th anniversary. bedfordtownband.org.uk

It’s another night of games, pizza and drinks at the board game café this month. Tickets from just £5 are available from the website – either standard, BYO drinks or with added 12” pizza. There are over 300 games to play and you don’t even need to read the rules as the Select ‘Travel Studio’ opens in RSR team can show you how to play. Ages 15+ shop.readysteadyroll.co.uk Select Travel, based in Bedford, are launching a regular ‘travel studio’ at Studio 281, an independent lifestyle studio and gym Bike Meet at St Paul’s Square in Kempston. Opening on Friday 15 March, the Travel Studio will be hosted by Select’s personal travel planner, Sharon, available Sunday 7 April from 1pm for appointments and drop ins from 9.30am – 5pm. “We felt From April onwards, St Paul’s Square will host a monthly, informal bike that Studio 281 would be a good fit for a partnership as they’re meet, open to anyone on two (or three) wheels. Whether you ride a also family-run and independent, they have a holistic approach bike, trike, scooter, Harley or sports bike – anything goes! Come along, to wellness and focus a lot on personal service, just like we do,” show it off and chat to fellow bikers. For visitors, there will be lots to look said Select Travel’s Amy Wright. at, loads of people to talk to and plenty of places to eat, drink and shop Studio 281, 281 Bedford Rd, Kempston, Bedford MK42 8QB while you’re here. “This event is for everyone, not just petrolheads,” said selecttravelholidays.co.uk organiser, Tom Answer of Boyd’s of Bedford. “It’s a great opportunity to get together and enjoy a relaxed Sunday in Bedford.”

Castle Comedy 7th birthday celebration 8pm Thursday 11 April at the Ent Shed For seven years, Castle Comedy has been bringing the best acts on the UK comedy circuit to Bedford. Headlining their birthday show is Stephen Bailey, who had a stellar 2018. He made his acting debut (and his dream come true) in Coronation Street and recorded his very first stand-up special for Comedy Central. Opening the show is Mark Simmons. Mark is an exceptional one-liner comedian. It won him a place in Dave’s prestigious Best Joke of The Fringe in Edinburgh 2017. The host with the most is Bedford’s very own Paul Revill. Tickets: £10 or £18 with pre show meal & glass of wine. Tel: 07736 060541, [email protected] castlecomedy.co.uk

10 The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 What’s on…April SpectaculArts Dinner and Dance Fundraiser From 8pm Saturday 12 April Bedford Corn Exchange To raise money for the SpectaculArts community projects and the Beds Arts Festival in September, the dinner and dance fundraiser will feature a three course multi-cultural cuise from Mamma Concetta, Tana Thai and Sacha’s Kitchen, plus live entertainment, DJs and an after party. Tickets are now on sale from £20 per person to £800 for a VIP table of ten. To book, call Sharon on 07903823777 or email events@spectacularts,co.uk

Bedford Who Charity Con 5 10am – 5.30pm Saturday 13 April University of Bedforshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford MK41 9EA The fifth annual Bedford Who Charity Con takes place this month, including special guest appearances from Sylvester McCoy, Sophie Aldred, Janet Fielding, Louise Jameson, Carole Ann Ford, Michael Jayston and Mike Tucker. Run for and by fans, this is an amazing opportunity to meet and chat to the guests in a friendly, relaxed and informal event. With overwhelmingly positive feedback, Bedford Who Charity Con is definitely not to be missed. All profits are donated to Bedford Foodbank. So far, they have raised over £13,000 for the charity. Tickets: Adults: £42.50 14-18s and full time students: £22.50 Under 14s: £15 Family tickets from £50 For further information: [email protected] for details

Moana (PG) with subtitles The Place Theatre 2pm Saturday 23 April This family-friendly screening of Disney Pixar’s Moana is the perfect end-of-the-holidays treat. Set in Ancient Polynesia, when a terrible curse incurred by the Demigod Maui reaches Moana’s island, she answers the Ocean’s call to seek Maui out to set things right. Tickets: adults £6 children £2 theplacebedford.org.uk

St. George’s Day Concert 7.30pm Tuesday 23 April Bedford Corn Exchange Direct from their duties at Buckingham Palace, the Band of Her Majesty’s Coldstream Guards performs an unashamedly emotive programme of musical excellence taking you on a journey from Westminster to Warmington-on-Sea and from Pageantry to the Proms. This varied and interesting show will have you tapping your feet and wiping a patriotic tear from your eye. All proceeds will go to the Lord- Lieutenant of Bedfordshire’s chosen charities. Tickets: £12 bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 11 Music

Clanger interview: The Christians We’ve played with a lot of bands including Fleetwood Mac, who chose us to support them at Manchester Arena, Stevie Nicks Bedford Esquires was there in her hoodie watching us from the side of the stage! Friday 19 April BC: You’ve had a prolific career, recording and touring, any They’ve been called ‘The Temptations in ripped jeans’ and their anecdotes? sound ‘sophisti-pop’. You’ll recognise their singles including GC: When we recorded Ferry Cross the Mersey, with Holly Hooverville, Harvest for the World, In an Ideal World and Johnson, Paul McCartney asked the sound guy (Pete Waterman) many many more, which all blend pop and soul with social if he could chat to us and we had a bit of joke together. messages. The Clanger’s Lloyd Lugsden got to talk to singer Garry Christian about Paul McCartney and stuffed peppers... BC: Any new bands do you like? GC: ...not really, I tend to listen to older music. Bedford Clanger: Been to Bedford before ? Garry Christian: Have we? Yes, yes at the Bedford Park BC: Have you got a favourite Christians song? Concert last summer, with Billy Ocean, it was a very hot day! GC: Our first single probably...and album track from...Happy in Hell. BC: Favourite Liverpool band? GC: Um, let me think, yes, what’s that band beginning with b?... BC: Favourite meal to cook? The Beatles! GC: Ooh, favourite meal...vegetarian stuffed peppers, with brown rice. BC: Where was your first gig? GC: That was at JBs, in Dudley, Birmingham in 1987, which Tickets are available from Slide Records, Mario’s Hair was quite funny. There were about six or seven people there... Design, Esquires bar and seetickets.com all punks, and they sat on the stage...facing away from us! The record company was at the bar, shuffling about looking awkward! Then we played there again two months later, after our first single was released and it was packed! BC: Favourite venue you’ve played? GC: There have been so many over the past 30 years, it’s hard to pick a favourite but there was one in Paris in 1991 at the SOS festival, with Bruce Springsteen, who liked us.

Panacea Museum | CenSAMM Explainers MONTHLY SHORT TALKS ON APOCALYPTIC AND MILLENARIAN MOVEMENTS ACROSS TIME, PLACE AND CULTURE

HEALING 4th APRIL 2PM Exploring the origins and history of the unique healing system developed by the Panacea Society in the early 20th century.

GARDENS OF EDEN 2nd MAY 2PM The Panacea Society understood their gardens to be the original Garden of Eden. This talk will examine the religious ideas the Society had about their campus.

www.panaceamuseum.org [email protected] 01234353178

12 The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 Slow Readers Club Folk Night: The Askew Sisters 8pm Thursday 4 April 8pm Thursday 4 April Esquires The Place Theatre The Slow Readers Club are a Mancunian four piece who specialise in epic guitar-electro pop. Regularly selling out huge venues in their native North West, you might have caught them over the summer when they drew huge crowds at festivals including Isle Of Wight Festival, Kendal Calling, Victorious, Sounds Of The City, Dot to Dot, Beautiful Days and Festival No 6. With a huge sound that echoes Depeche Mode, Foals and New Order, The Slow Readers Club are destined for greatness. Tickets: £15 www.seetickets.com plus from Slide Records and Mario’s Hair Design in Kempston Emily and Hazel Askew are among the foremost performers and interpreters of English folk music. Their live performances brim with The Take That Experience the depth and connection not only of two sisters, but also of two 7.30pm Friday 5 April musicians who have been immersed in folk music all their lives, Bedford Corn Exchange reworking and reinterpreting songs and balladry. They create As Take That celebrate over 25 years as the UK’s number breath-taking arrangements, which allow words that are hundreds one boy band, The Take That Experience mark over a decade of years old to resonate profoundly with contemporary audiences. together as the ultimate tribute act with their best show yet! The boys don’t just give you a night you’ll ‘Never Forget’… they Tickets: £12.00 advance and £14.00 on the door. give you The Take That Experience! theplacebedford.org.uk Tickets: £20 bedfordcornexchange.co.uk Blancmange Philharmonia Orchestra: 7.30pm Thursday 25 April 2019 Esquires Ashkenazy conducts Elgar According to Moby, Blancmange are,”…probably the most under- 7.30pm Monday 29 April rated electronic act of all time,” first breaking onto the early Bedford Corn Exchange 80s scene with their mix of synthesizers and surrealism, fused in ASHKENAZY CONDUCTS ELGAR ground-breaking singles such as ‘Feel Me’, ‘Living On The Ceiling’, Celebrated as one of the world’s greatest conductors, ‘Blind Vision’ and ‘Don’t Tell Me’. The epic synthpop of ‘Waves’ and Vladimir Ashkenazy directs the Philharmonia in an unmissable a cover of Abba’s ‘The Day Before You Came’ illustrated a band programme of depth and passion. Glinka’s Overture to his who were always willing to change and adapt new styles within opera based on Pushkin’s poem, Ruslan and Ludmila, glitters their electronic framework. with memorable melodies and orchestral colour. The gifted young violinist Esther Yoo performs Tchaikovsky’s Violin Tickets: £18 www.seetickets.com plus from Slide Records and Concerto, taking us on a journey through the concerto’s Mario’s Hair Design in Kempston thrilling opening, singing slow movement, and scintillating finale. The programme concludes with Elgar’s Enigma Variations, a series of witty portraits of the composer’s closest acquaintances, reaching profound emotional depths in the Other Esquires highlights: nobility of ‘Nimrod’. April 5 / The Outcasts | April 6 / Pigs x 7 (sold out) Tickets: £35 bedfordcornexchange.co.uk April 6 / Sound of the Sirens April 7 / Southbound play the Sunday Afternoon Session April 12 / Stormbringer | April 13 / London Calling April 13 / Resonant Frequencies April 14 / Subhumans + the Tendons April 19 / Noble Jacks | April 20 / Republica April 21 / Teenage Werewolves | April 26 / Whenyoung April 26 / Big Country | April 27 / Brigade April 27 / The Creepshow | April 29 / Black Honey

The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 13 FOOD & Drink

Happy 10th birthday to the Embankment!

There’s a whole weekend of fun planned from Friday 12 – Sunday 14 April at the Embankment as they celebrate their 10th birthday. It hardly seems that long ago that the landmark building on the banks of the River Great Ouse was renovated and relaunched and has become one of the town’s best-loved eateries. Whether you’re there for brunch overlooking the river, pre-rugby drinks in the bar or dinner with friends and family, the pub and restaurant is a great asset to Bedford and we wish them a very happy birthday! The celebrations kick off with the 2019 maiden voyage of the have worked with over the last ten years. The menu will include Embankment’s Boat Party. Climb aboard the John Bunyan boat panfried Brixham scallops, pork tenderloin, Earl Grey parfait and and ‘set sail’ at 7pm for a two hour cruise along the Ouse filled lavender and honey macaroons. Entertaniment is provided by with bubbles, bites and music. The party continues back at the Sophia Soul and Sax & Honey. Tickets are £80pp and guests are pub with street performers and a disco in the bar. encouraged to dress to impress. Tickets for the two hour boat trip are £40pp all inclusive. The weekend winds down with Lazy Sunday – a chance to catch up with family and friends over one of the Embankments famous Fittingly, the centrepiece of the 10th birthday celebrations roasts. Live music in the bar from 2 – 4pm plus face painters and is a10 course tasting menu with Champagne arrival. The children’s entertainers throughout the day. Embankment has invited expert chefs from across the country to join their head chef Simon to deliver an outstanding menu To book any of the birthday events, call the pub on 01234 showcasing some of the amazing produce and suppliers they 261332 or visit embankmentbedford.co.uk

You can join in the birthday weekend celebrations with a table for two on Saturday 13 April. Just email [email protected] by Friday 5 April with your name and address and WIN! ‘Embankment birthday’ in the subject field. The winner will be notified on Saturday 6 April.

Bedford StrEAT Feast is back at Riverside Square this month on Friday 26 April. From 4 – 9pm, street food trucks and traders will have an array of international flavours including vegan and veggie treats. Keep an eye on their social media channels as they’ll be announcing their traders throughout the month. A great place to take the family, meet up with friends and eat delicious food. Our mouths are already watering!

14 The Bedford Clanger • April 2019 Best of Bedford: Sharon de leonardis

This month’s Best of Bedford comes from SpectaculArts’ founder, Sharon de Leonardis. SpectaculArts’ objective is to create events that enhance and enrich our community. Activity this year will culminate in the SpectaculArts Street Arts Festival on Saturday 7 September – a carnival to celebrate the cultural diversity of Bedford and we can’t wait! In addition, Sharon is the host with the most at 1 the Pavilion at the Park, so you might spot a bit of bias in one of her answers!

Name: Sharon De Leonardis Occupation: Survivor of life. Business manager Born here or blow in? Bedford born. Best thing about Bedford? I love the small town feeling of knowing I can walk down the street and say hello to people without being looked at like I am from a different plant. Still waiting for that DNA result to come back as I 2 would not be surprised to find I’d come from Venus! Best place to get a coffee or cuppa? The Pavilion in Bedford park ;-) (2) To be honest we have some great independent coffee shops and my husband being Italian, I have to know my coffee; another great place is Coffee with Art. (3) Best breakfast? Has to one that I haven’t cooked! My favourite is my mum and dad’s Jamaican breakfast achee and salt fish with fried dumplings and chocolate tea. If I have had a few drinks the night before it has to be a good old fashion British fry up, with a pint of orange juice. 3 The one place you’d recommend to visitors? One of the best kept secrets of Bedford for me is Priory Marina, great place to walk, with hidden trails, nature, dogs, lake café. (1) Ever read John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress? Not yet………does that make me a bad Bedfordian? Bedford’s best boozer? The Third Place on St Peter’s Street. Chilled vibes and an older crowd. Do I really need reminding my age when I bump into students that I have taught in schools who have now left…. Err No! (4) Best Bedfordian? Paula Radcliffe. I attended Bedford Harriers at the time that Paula was a member. To watch someone train to be the best and become world record holder, gave me the belief that anyone can achieve their goals if they just work hard and believe in their abilities and in people that will help 4 you on your journey to achieve your goals. Ever eaten a Bedfordshire Clanger? Yes, love meat pasties. Three words that sum up Bedford: Diverse, friendly, home

The Bedford Clanger • thebedfordclanger.com • 15 The Bedford Clanger is printed by White Hart Press, Bedford April 2019 www.bedfordindependent.co.uk

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WARRING BEDFORD AND KEMPSTON GANGS NOW BEHIND BARS AFTER SPATE OF SERIOUS VIOLENCE was sentenced to a 12-year prison sentence. He’ll serve nine in custody and three on licence. On 17 June, two Mile Road gang members sought retribution with a vicious machete attack, in Hawkins Road, Bedford, which the court heard had virtually severed the victims arm. Maksims Boikovs, 19, of Brackley Road, Bedford, and Terrell Romain, 22, of Lewis Close, Bedford, were found guilty of violent disorder, wounding with intent to cause GBH and possession of a bladed article at trial in January. Romain was sentenced to 18 years in prison, while Boikovs was sentenced to 14 years, both for wounding with intent. Both also received sentences of four years for Five men, involved in clashes Kruse investigation into Bedford gang violent disorder and 12 months for between the rival Kempston ‘K’ Block shootings in July 2016 which left a possession of a bladed article to run and Mile Road gangs in 2017, have power void. concurrently. been sent to prison for their part in a During the first incident, on 3 June, kidnap and multiple conspiracies to Romain also received three an off-duty police officer saw a man cause GBH with intent, including a separate sentences of four, four, and serious stabbing and a shooting. being assaulted near Addison Howard two years, for drugs supply offences Park in Kempston and police tracked which will also run concurrently. The incidents all happened within a car leaving the scene. three weeks of one another in June Two days after the stabbing, on 2017 as the rival gang members Saffa Gbonda, 25, of Walcourt 19 June, the Kempston Block gang looked to establish themselves as Road, Kempston, was driving the car carried out a drive-by shooting of a leaders of their respective groups. at the time and arrested at the scene. Mile Road gang associate. The gang Former leaders of the Mile Road Gbonda was convicted of shot from a 12-bore shotgun at a gang had been locked up thanks conspiracy to kidnap and GBH with home in Miller Road. to Bedfordshire Police’s Operation intent at trial in October. Today, he > Continued on Page 2

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Bedford Moorfields Eye Appeal for witnesses after woman Hospital now rated as assaulted in Bedford alleyway ‘good’ overall A woman walking through an alleyway running from Eastcotts Road to Bamford Road was assaulted by three men who then stole her purse on Monday night, 11 March. As she was walking through the alleyway, just after 8pm, she heard someone shout behind her. She was then approached by the men who assaulted her and took her purse before running to a car in the car park of a nearby shop.

• The first suspect is described as white, approximately six feet tall and of average build. He was wearing a black puffa jacket, green jogging bottoms and a dark balaclava. The victim describes him as having bushy eyebrows. • The second suspect is described as being mixed race, six feet tall,of medium build Bedford Moorfields Eye Hospital and with short dreadlocks. The bottom part of his face was covered and he was has been given an overall ‘good’ rating by the Care Quality Commission wearing a black Nike puffa jacket and grey jogging bottoms. (CQC). It had previously been rated as • The third suspect is described as black, wearing a black or blue balaclava, a black ‘requiring improvement’. puffa jacket with the hood up and black jogging bottoms. In the report the hospital’s surgical • One of the men was wearing white Nike Air Force trainers. services received an ‘outstanding’ rating which helped bump up the score. The inspection observed the If you have any information, Bedfordshire Police urge you to call 101 quoting reference hospitals effectiveness and adaptability number 40/14407/19. You can also report information online at bedfordshire.police.uk/report. to patients’ needs, as well fully Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. supporting members of staff. Staff were also praised for their compassionate care with feedback from Moorfields patients recognising Conservatives and Lib-Dems launch their the staff as “caring and treated them with kindness”. Bedford Borough Mayoral manifestos The Conservative’s and Liberal Each manifesto includes a shopping list Democrats have launched their plans for of ideas that each party believes will act in Bedford villages to how they’ll look after Bedford Borough the best interest of Bedfordians, but each if their Mayoral candidates are elected in manifesto fails to say how they’ll pay for get more average the Local Council elections in May. their plans. speed cameras Bedford Borough Mayoral Candidate, To read more about what the Liberal Gianni Carofano, says his Manifesto will Democrats and Conservatives are give Bedford what residents have told promising if they are elected, head to him they want for the Borough. bedfordindependent.co.uk/tag/mayoral- election-2019/ Whereas current Mayor, Dave Hodgson, and the Liberal Democrats, say their manifesto is a “pledge to stand up At the time of going to print the Labour Party for Bedford Borough and maintain their candidate, Jenni Jackson, had not released proven record of action”. their manifesto. Bedfordshire residents concerned Oxfordshire-Cambridgeshire Development

Bromham, Clapham, Colmworth, Plan will destroy countryside and Willington will soon have average speed cameras installed in an effort to increase The Campaign to Protect Rural government would consider such a vast road safety. England (CPRE) says three quarters development proposal, which will have of Bedfordshire residents believe huge and damaging consequences for the Hillgrounds Road in Kempston and Mile the Oxfordshire-Cambridgeshire countryside and environment, without any Road in Bedford will also be joining the Development Plan will destroy the local sort of assessment of its impact. People are average speed camera network across countryside and the environment. right to be concerned.” Bedford Borough. A poll carried out by research In a statement, the Ministry of Housing, Average speed cameras measure a company Survation, on the behalf of Communities and Local Government say: vehicles speed over a set distance, rather the CPRE, showed that 75% of those “The Oxford-Cambridge Arc presents an than at a fixed point, and are designed to asked were concerned about the impact opportunity to put the government’s 25 have a greater long-term effect on how fast of the development plan and 67% of Year Environment Plan into action, ensuring people drive. respondents said they hadn’t heard of the that development takes place in a sensitive Like all councils, Bedford Borough Council development plan or knew what it was. manner, protecting and enhancing the Arc’s does not make money from the cameras as Paul Miner, head of strategic plans natural environment.” it is retained by Central Government. and devolution at CPRE, is shocked at the findings: “It is unthinkable that the Read the full story at BedfordIndpendent.co.uk

Bedford Independent • April 2019 3 Front Page Story continued... conspiracy to commit GBH with will find themselves being relentlessly intent, and possession of a shotgun pursued by law enforcement.” Two men suffered serious but with intent to endanger life. These Senior Crown Prosecutor Charles non-life-threatening injuries and the sentences will be served concurrently. White, from the CPS, added: property was significantly damaged Kingswell-Shaw was sentenced to “Criminal activity and violence of this inside and out. 16 years for both offences, which will nature has no place on our streets, Fingerprint analysis linked also be served concurrently. and we will continue to work with the Antonio Ziu, 22, of Warwick Detective Inspector Janine Graham, police to catch, prosecute and bring Avenue, Bedford, and Vincent who led the investigation, said: to justice those people who engage in Kingswell-Shaw, 23, of Foster Road, “Tackling gangs and serious youth this activity.” Kempston, to the vehicle. violence in Bedfordshire is one of our Read more on this story and others Ziu, who was considered a “leading top priorities, and with our new Boson at BedfordIndependent.co.uk light” of the Kempston Block gang, team dedicated to tackling gang and received two 19 year sentences for gun crime in Bedford, these gangs Rail chaos lands Govia Thameslink record £5m fine

Eight weeks of travel chaos for appropriate, accurate and timely Govia Thameslink replied: “The Bedford commuters in May last information” in implementing new severe disruption following last year has landed Govia Thameslink timetables for Thameslink and May’s timetable introduction was a record £5m fine from the Great Northern routes. due to industry-wide factors and regulator, The Office of Rail and Stephanie Tobyn, Deputy Director, we are sorry for the serious effect Road (ORR). Consumers, ORR, added: “The this had on our passengers.” Issuing the fine for a breach disruption experienced by many of licence, the ORR said Govia passengers as a result of the May Read the ORR’s findings in full at Thameslink had “failed to provide timetable introduction was awful.” BedfordIndependent.co.uk Bedford man behind bars for knife-point robbery and assaulting police officers A Bedford man will be behind bars for four-and-a- McCleary pleaded guilty to both these offences half years after being sentenced for a string of crimes and received four-and-a-half years behind bars, to including two robberies and assaults against a number of run concurrently. He also received a year for ABH and people including several police officers. criminal damage during a separate incident at a hotel 37-year-old Andrew McCleary, of Cavendish Street, and 14 months for a further incident of dangerous was sentenced initially for two robberies in Boswell driving, failing to provide a specimen and assault on Place on 23 and 27 December. five police officers.

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2 Bedford Independent • April 2019 What’s On at Bedford Corn Exchange There’s entertainment for everyone!

King of Pop Jimmy Carr: Totally featuring Navi Terribly Funny Tina Saturday 27 April, 7.30 pm Wednesday 22 May, 8.00 pm Thursday 6 June, 7.30 pm

Fleetingwood Mac Ed Byrne Friday 12 July, 7.30 pm Thursday 10 October, 8.00 pm

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For full show info and to book, please call 01234 718044 or go to www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk So long spiral... The Harpur Centre, Bedford gets set for the 21st Century

Bedford’s Harpur Centre has fondly remember running down “The whole idea of this was unveiled their new look interior or meeting friends at the bottom to future proof Bedford, future and embraced the needs of the of in their youth - Samantha said proof the building and bring us 21st century shopper. while she was sad to see it go, its into the 21st century.” time had come. The long-awaited refurbishment The work doesn’t end there. What’s On has included a new glass lift “It has been an iconic part An external facelift is expected in replacing the spiral, electronic of the Harpur Centre journey,” the near future. signage, wi-fi, laptop and mobile said Samantha. “But for the first at Bedford Corn Exchange charging ports and more daylight time ever, the basement has light, we’re going to make a nice coming into the centre. Watch interviews and see the seating area down there, you can new look Harpur Centre at And commenting on the plug in your phones, plug in your There’s entertainment for everyone! removal of the spiral - a feature lap tops and meet your friends BedfordIndependent.co.uk that many Bedfordian shoppers down there again. Announcements

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King of Pop Jimmy Carr: Totally 2 doggy years old! My how you have grown! featuring Navi Terribly Funny Tina Saturday 27 April, 7.30 pm Wednesday 22 May, 8.00 pm Thursday 6 June, 7.30 pm Jez Crofts

Happy 50th Birthday. Now officially a grumpy old man!

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Fleetingwood Mac Ed Byrne Get in touch: Editorial, email [email protected] Friday 12 July, 7.30 pm Thursday 10 October, 8.00 pm Sport, email [email protected]

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