The wootton parish news
WINTER EDITION DECEMBER 2019
https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk Contacts Directory St Mary's Church Parish Council Chairman Canon Peter Ackroyd: 768 391 Church Hall: 767 158 Gareth Lloyd: 07414 551 820 Parish Council Vice Chairman Wootton New Life Methodist Church Gerald Bygraves: 07792 842 601 Rev Charlie Connor: 767 865 Clerk to the Council/Responsible Financial Officer Sue Playford: 07531 930 788 Baptist Church 3 Longden Close, Haynes, Bedfordshire MK45 3PJ Mr Rob Stanton: 766 293
Parish Councillors Roman Catholic Church Bob Hensher: 767 774 Father Seamus Keenan: 352 569 Justin Lennox: 07939 300002 Hazel Martin: 767 622 Doctor's Surgeries Jeff Noakes: 07806 470 411 Wootton Vale: 762 500 Stuart O’Dell: 767133 Cranfield, High St: 750 234 Paul Quirk: 768 832 Kempston, Cater St: 849 090 Keith Randell: 07872 647234 Kempston, King St: 852 222 Bob Wallace: 768 011 Kempston, St John St: 851 323 John Wheeler: 07913 409 433 NHS Direct: 0845 46 47
Bedford Borough Councillor Wootton Facilities John Wheeler: 07913 409 433 Pharmacy: 765 166 Post Office: 768 368 Hall Booking Library: 766 061 Memorial Hall - Naomi Ward: 07722 876 252 Scout Hall - Mark Atkins: 311 386 Village Club & Organisations Village Hall - Jenny Lambert: 767 488 1st Wootton Rainbows - Elaine: 765 419 Wootton Blue Cross Hall: 767 662 2nd Wootton Rainbows – Vickie: 602146 Wootton Community Centre - email: 1st Wootton Boys Brigade - Allan: 319 269 [email protected] 1st Wootton Girls Brigade - Nicola: 319 269 Acorn Quilters - Dorothy: 409 566 Complex (Multi Use Games Area) bookings Badminton Monday - Chris: 07740 939 109 Sue Playford: 07531 930 788 Badminton Thursday - Freda: 270 638 Badminton Juniors - Colin: 270 283 Schools Beavers - Louise: 07753 811 910 Wootton Upper: 767 123 Bowls Monday - Viv: 855 383 Holywell Middle: 750 381 Bowls Thursday - Rena: 768 012 Marston Vale Middle: 768 224 Brennan School of Dance: 822 831 Wootton Lower: 768 239 Brownies Tuesday - Denise: 314 030 Wootton Lower PTFA Contact: 768 239 Brownies Wednesday - Rebecca: 07721 686868 Cubs - Christopher: 304 588 Police Country Players - Wendy: 401 460 HQ: 841 212 Explorers - Kit: 07792 372 570 Beat Manager: 842 433 Group Scout Leader - Kit: 07792 372 570 Non Emergency: 101 Guides - Gill: 856 566 Anti-Social Behaviour: 276 037 '55' Club - Arthur: 768 405 Marston Vale Forest School: 07811 087 322 Good Neighbour Scheme: 07717 770 247 Patacake Baby/Toddlers - Chau: 07854 885 746 Royal British Legion Wootton Poppy Appeal Playgroups Organiser - Chris: 07865 051 453 Bizzy Bees - Paula Bannell: 767 185 Scouts - Dave: 07780 954 307 St Mary's - Tracey Kerins: 767 158 Stewartby Operatic Society - 01908 616213 Wootton Community Nursery Tang Soo Do - Pat: 07917 805 863 Kayleigh:07534 308 632 Wootton Golf Society - Pete: 07975 596 164 Women's Institute - Kath: 765 333 Speed Watch Co-ordinator Wootton Rangers FC - Jeremy: 07446 770193 Malcolm Chalmers: 07864 295520 Wootton Blue Cross: 767 662
02 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Inside The December Edition facebook.com/ f WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 04 Chairman's Report 06 Parish Clerk's Report 07 Dates for your Diary 08 Borough Councillor Report 09 Christmas Lights 12 St. Mary's Pre-School 16 Forest of Marston Vale 20 Outstanding Parish Council Issues & Projects 22 Remembrance Day 23 Speedwatch 25 Wootton Vale Healthy Living Centre 26 Village Agent Editor in Chief - Sue Playford 27 Girlguiding Editor - Gareth Lloyd 29 Wootton WI 30 Wootton Library Design & Print - Bespoke Media www.bespokemedia.org 32 Wootton Baptist Church 34 St. Mary's Church, Wootton 35 Wootton Upper School Editorial Notes: 37 Wootton Good Neighbour Scheme Wootton News is overseen by an editorial sub group of the parish 42 20 Years Ago... council. While every effort has been 44 Wootton New Life Methodist made to ensure that information in this newsletter is accurate, the parish council accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. It should be noted that Next Issue: March 2020 articles written by individuals do not necessarily represent the views of the Copy Date: February 2020 council. Please send all articles to the Wootton News editor (gareth.t.lloyd@ The Wootton News can by read online at: googlemail.com by the copydate. https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk Advertisements are usually half page If you have any comments or opinions on how to improve the (£30 for black and white, or colour). If you Wootton News, please send them to Sue Playford (Clerk to wish to advertise then please send your the Council): details to the editor. The advertisements are taken in good faith and we cannot [email protected] or call on 07531 930 788 accept any responsibility for bad service or workmanship received.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 03 Chairman' s Report Gareth Lloyd
parish council’s emerging Neighbourhood Plan, and the parish council has robustly objected to this proposal. Bedford Borough Council have failed to demonstrate a five-
year land supply for housing, a requirement placed upon them by Central Government, meaning around 1,000 houses per year, must be delivered within the Borough, over the next five years. Due to this lack of land Gareth Lloyd supply, the Borough Council (and more importantly parishes within the Borough) Fields Road roundabout are exposed to aggressive and speculative The original plan was to keep the display planning applications. It remains to be seen on the roundabout for just a year, but after if Bedford Borough Council oppose such all the positive feedback, it was decided to developments and risk court action. I can create a poll to see what residents wanted. only hope their planning committee refuse The results (72%) were in favour of keeping Wootton’s application. the display, with it being improved and maintained, and a group of residents came Finally, Fields Road footpath. This was forward to help with this task. A big thank widened to allow the increasing number of you to Verity and Ronnie for coordinating pedestrians and cyclists to travel safely, and the work ahead of this year's Remembrance to allow middle school children to queue Day and all those that made poppies. for the school bus without having to step on the road to allow pedestrians through. It Remembrance Day was NOT widened for inconsiderate drivers I would like to thank all those that took part to park on. Keep all 4 wheels on the road!!! in the parade and the support and respect this village has yet again demonstrated. It was humbling to see so many different groups taking part.
At the time of writing this report, Bedford Borough Council had yet to determine the planning application for 81 houses adjacent to the upper school. Despite what some of you may have read on social media, this application is NOT related in any way to the
Useful Numbers Fly tipping Police non-emergency number Dog fouling/Being walked 01234 267422 101 on the recreation ground 01234 718060 Anti-Social behaviour Noise complaints 01234 276037 & 101 01234 227266
04 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 05 Clerk to the Council's Report Sue Playford
speed watch street watch [email protected] 07531 930 788 I’ll start with some regular announcements. on, on Sunday 24th November, especially Wootton Lower School for their involvement Anyone wishing to take on an allotment and fantastic singing as always. (they are situated at Hall End – opposite the Chequers PH. Please contact our allotments It just remains for me to wish everyone a officerAlison on 07977 341861. very Happy Christmas and peaceful New Year. If you would like to join the Speed Watch team which operates within Wootton, please contact Jules Donel at Police HQ – Juliet. [email protected]. The parish council is happy to promote this scheme but doesn’t run it – please speak to Jules as training is required. Wootton Parish Council Street Watch will always welcome new volunteers. Again, the parish council Office Location: promotes the scheme but doesn’t run The Hub, it. The contact at Bedfordshire police Wootton Life Methodist Church, for this scheme is Juliet Wright – Juliet. Cause End Road, MK43 9DE [email protected]. Volunteers will need to be vetted before Office Hours: receiving training and equipment. Monday and Wednesday morning 10am-12noon I am pleased to welcome another councillor, Justin Lennox, and I look forward to working with him. (Hours may be subject to change and appointments can be pre-booked, feel free to I would like to thank everyone involved in the telephone in advance to ensure regeneration of the poppy/remembrance the office will be open). display on the Fields Road/Berryfields roundabout. Great community spirit! And of course, thank you to everyone who attended the annual Christmas tree lights switch
06 https://woottonpc.bedsparish.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Dates for your Diary 2019 / 2020
DECEMBER 2019 11th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 11th Full Council 7.30pm
2020 JANUARY 8th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 8th Full Council inc precept sign off 7.30pm 15th Roads and Pavements Safety Steering Group 7.00pm 15th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group 8.00pm 29th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 29th Finance & General Purposes Committee 7.30pm 29th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group 8.00pm
FEBRUARY 12th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 12th Full Council 7.30pm 19th Fun Fest Committee 7.00pm 26th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 26th Finance & General Purposes Committee 7.30pm 26th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group 8.00pm
MARCH 11th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 11th Full Council 7.30pm 18th Roads and Pavements Safety Steering Group 7.00pm 18th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group 8.00pm 25th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 25th Finance & General Purposes Committee 7.30pm 25th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group 8.00pm
All meetings are now held at Wootton Community Centre, Harris Way.
Please check noticeboards and the parish council website for any cancellations or changes to timings and/or venue.
Our noticeboards can found at; Bedford Road - opposite the Cock Inn PH Bedford Road - outside Wootton Lower School Bedford Road - outside Manor Road Flats Bedford Road - outside the Memorial Hall Hall End - adjacent to the post box
(http://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk/noticeboard)
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 07 Wootton News Update from Borough Cllr John Wheeler
SURGERY first Saturday of each month at the Library, 11am to 12 noon
and most Wednesdays at the Hub, Cause End Road, 10am to 12 noon.
Email: [email protected] Cross access. Once again thank you to Phone: 07913 409 433 all involved to get us to this stage. Fields Road is next on the list to be re-surfaced Well, here we are again nearing the end of and the crossing by the surgery installed is another eventful year in Wootton. Some scheduled to be in place before the end of of us are now planning ahead for 2020 this financial year. Bedford Borough Council or in the case of the children there is a lot has confirmed the average speed cameras to do for school plays, sending those all- have all been ordered and site visits are important letters off to Santa and generally being done regarding the locations around getting excited. By the time you read this the village. I am pushing for Cause End the Christmas tree light switch on would Road to be put into the 2020/2021 Borough have been done by Wootton Lower School Highways budget to be resurfaced and a and the Christmas lights will be on the new water pipe installed. In my last report, streetlights along Bedford Road and Fields I mentioned the 7.5 tonnes weight limit for Road. The annual Bob Lunniss Christmas Fields Road; I have now managed to get lunch for senior citizens of Wootton also will the Council to approve the limit for the have taken place so I would like to give a whole of Wootton from early next year. big thank you in advance to Wootton Upper and Lower Schools, helpers and Trustees The shops are now well underway and who help make this happen each year. should be ready in March next year for Also thank you to the Cross Keys, Wood hand over in Easter. At the time of going End who provided the catering at a heavily to press, contracts have not been finalised discounted price. but there will be a supermarket, take away and two other small outlets. The annual remembrance service and parade would have taken place as well. In terms of the wider Borough, there are a Thank you to all who helped this year from few items which may be of interest: schools, clubs, Wootton Parish Council, Bedfordshire Police, volunteers and Gareth - The Chief Executive of Bedford Hospital Lloyd for organising the event and starting told a meeting of the Borough Council’s a group to look after the remembrance Health Committee in October that the display on the Fields Road roundabout. merger with Luton & Dunstable is set to be completed by April 2020. The merger, I hope that all the road works will be done announced in autumn 2017, pledged to including the new crossings and Potters protect key services at Bedford Hospital
08 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS including A & E, maternity and paediatrics.
- A Strategic Outline Business Case (SOBC) Christmas Lights has been formulated for the Wixams Hall End Rd railway station which anticipates 866,000 passengers a year using a two-platform Many thanks for all of the donations station. The Department for Transport’s over the last 4 years we have been preferred route for the East West Rail (EWR) collecting for charity, £1843-61p has line from Oxford to Cambridge will have a been raised. bearing on how the Wixams station is taken forward. Unfortunately this year will be the last big display, we would like to thank Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service Andy for putting up the scaffold for provides Safe and Well Visits or the benefit the last few years free of charge (a of elderly and vulnerable people. These are designed to check over houses to couple of pints?) identify safety hazards and provide advice to improve wellbeing and prevent crime. This years charities are Great Ormond Email [email protected] if you Street Childrens Hospital and 3 know of someone who might benefit. Neonatal intensive care units, both have played a big part in Baz & Eve The admissions process for transfer to (Russell) and our families lives over secondary schools in the Borough closed the last 12 months, there will also be on the 31st October, but remains open until a couple of other events next year for the 15th January 2020 for children beginning these charities. primary school in September 2020. For more information search ‘Bedford school The lights will be on from admissions’ or call 01234718120. Saturday 30th November to Sunday 5th January from 15-30 to 22-30 As we are approaching Christmas please each day. look out for all the festive events going on around the village and keep an eye open for the elderly so they are aware of these events and not lonely.
I would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 09 10 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 11 Established 1967 St. Mary’s Church Hall, St. Mary’s Road, Wootton, Beds MK43 9HB Tel: 01234 767158 Email: [email protected]
The children at St Mary’s Preschool have pretending to be ‘fireworks’. had another busy term experiencing lots of fun and new activities. On Thursday 14 November Pudsey Bear came to visit us. At the beginning of the term we The children sang ‘The Bear celebrated Harvest. The children listened went over the Mountain’ to him to the story ‘The Scarecrows Hat’ they and Pudsey did the actions. sang ‘I’m a Dingle Dangle Scarecrow’ and On Children in Need day the then made their own scarecrow pictures. children and staff came to preschool The staff, children and their parents went dressed in their pyjamas. The children to St Mary’s Church with food donations coloured in Pudsey colouring sheets, and stayed for a short service where the sang bear songs, listened to bear stories children sang the new harvest songs that and ate bear crisps for snack, everyone they had been learning. had a BEARilliant day!
We celebrated Diwali, the Our focus book has been ‘Room on the Hindu Festival of Light. Broom’. The children listened to the The children took part in story and then searched in the preschool a variety of Diwali-themed garden for the things that had fallen off the craft activities, such as broom and the broom itself. The children making diva lamp cards, loved running around the garden with tick Mendhi patterns, firework charts looking for a broomstick, a yellow pictures and listened to a traditional Diwali and red spotted bow, a witch’s hat and a story. The emphasis of the story was about magic wand. The children than made their being kind and helping each other. Having own magic wands and enjoyed taking a Diwali-themed week has introduced the turns turning the ladies into frogs! children to different religions and cultures. For snack the children ate naan bread and General Information poppadoms. St Mary’s Preschool opened in 1967 and operates from the main room within the We have been celebrating Bonfire Church Hall. Children have access to a Night, with the children painting firework fully enclosed, grassed outdoor play area. pictures and learning about fire safety. St Mary’s Preschool supports children with They used words which described the special educational needs and children sounds fireworks make – such as whoosh who speak English as an additional and bang. The children experimented with language. The Preschool is a member of movement and used their imagination the Pre-School Learning Alliance and is
12 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS registered by Ofsted. St Mary’s Preschool Children eligible for funding but attending receives funding for early years education. another setting - Children may take It is open each weekday during term-time sessions at a combination of pre-schools only; and offers all day care. or nurseries, however, for any session where we do not receive funding fees are If you would like to put your child's name £3.75 per hour (£11.25 for a 3-hour session). down for a preschool place, or require any further information please phone Tracey on 01234 767158. Term time opening hours: Mon 9.00 - 12.00 Children not eligible for funding – Fees Tues, Wed and Fri 9.00 - 16.00 are £3.75 per hour (£11.25 for a 3-hour Thurs 9.00 - 15.00 session).
Hard of Hearing
I thought I heard the Christmas bells from way across the hill I should have done, because that night the air was very still But they were smothered by the clamour at the supermarket till.
I thought I heard some voices saying “Come let us adore.” And felt that I had heard that song sung somewhere else before But it was hard to hear above the cries of “Give me more”
I thought I heard the clergymen inviting us to go To worship as they had before, two thousand years ago But most preferred to stay at home and watch a video.
“Come, we must leave our work for now” I heard the neighbours say The Saviour of the world has come and this is Christmas day” But I had presents to unwrap and couldn’t get away.
I heard a voice from Africa come faintly to my ear “We are dying of starvation” and I wiped away a tear And turned the telly off because I didn’t want to hear.
And then a voice said ”Come and take my gifts of Peace and Grace Only with these can you expect to save the human race” But computer lost the message; it was gone without a trace.
I thought I heard God’s voice announcing “I will come again” But some one turned the music up and swallowed the refrain And as nobody could hear of course then no-one gets the blame.
I nearly missed the voice say “This is my beloved Son Who came to earth to save you for the wrongs which you have done” Because all the world was shouting “MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE’ Rebecca Cook
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 13 Improve your home with Custom Glaze
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14 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk he wootton PARISH NEWS The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshirewww.facebook.com/WoottonParishes.gov.uk 15 Forest of Marston Vale
Events Sticking with all-things-trees, we’ll be running the very popular ‘Plant one on Us’ campaign again this winter, where every single resident of the Forest can collect a free tree from us, to plant in their own garden. Thanks to funding from Bluechip we can give you your very own sapling (all native, all great for wildlife). If you had a sapling from us last year under the scheme, we’d love to see your photos – Tree planting please send them in to us at sam.hayden@ So far, we’ve planted 2 million trees in marstonvale.org. We’ll need you to the Forest, and this year we’ll be adding register on our website by 30th November thousands more to that number. It’s never if you’d like a tree, and they’ll be available been more important for us all to plant for collection in February 2020. trees, and in Wootton, both the Upper and Lower schools will be taking part. If all of the hustle and bustle of Christmas Wootton Upper Schools’ Peace Garden is wearing you down by the end of this will be planted up with a mix of trees to month, come along to our Pamper evening encourage birds and wildlife to the area, on Friday 22nd November – treat yourself whilst Wootton Lower School will be to a massage or a bit of reflexology, or get adding to their already impressive tally of your gel nails done ready for the Christmas over 1700 trees planted in their grounds. party season. Tickets are £5 and include a Planting trees in schools provides so many free glass of prosecco if booked in advance great benefits – shade for students on hot at marstonvale.org. sunny days, the opportunity to see wildlife visiting the playing fields, buffering from road and traffic noise, and the chance to feel a greater connection to the natural world. That’s why we love trees SO much.
Looking to the future, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to make sure we’ll be able to continue to create new And to get you back into the festive spirit, woodlands in the Forest for years to come. we’ll be holding our annual Christmas There are some exciting tree planting Tree Festival again this year, over the 7th projects planned, and we’re really looking and 8th December. With an elf trail, stalls forward to getting started. We’ll keep you selling handmade gifts and crafts, Santa’s updated, or you can check our website Grotto, live music and Christmas Trees for www.marstonvale.org. sale, there’s lots going on. No need to book, and parking is free for the weekend!
16 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS And finally We’ve still got grants of up to £2000 to give Wootton Vale to local community groups, so please do Healthy Living Centre get in touch if you think you could benefit. We’ll need completed applications in by Every now and then there is a flurry of complaints on Facebook, against the surgery. We would like mid-January, so there’s still plenty of time to think these are in a fit of frustration because – get in touch if you would like any more the person posting cannot get an appointment details. when they want one (which is what the usual complaints seem to be about) and the easiest way to vent is on social media. Nothing ever seems to Last but not least I’d like to say a big thank come from these complaints so we assume the you to the volunteers who give their time person feels better for venting but doesn’t really expect anything to happen. We hope that if it was to help us create the Forest – the people a serious allegation, the proper channels would who come along to plant trees in the be followed and the outcome would be acted freezing cold, the people who help with upon. There is a box attached to the PPG board in the surgery if you wish to bring a matter to our admin and putting together newsletters, attention or contact us on our email address. the people who help us fund raise, the people who are going to be butterfly What if this was turned around? The staff at the surgery work incredibly hard against all the monitoring next summer, our fantastic odds. They must feel very disheartened and Wood Wardens who are our eyes and demoralised to get the type of criticism that is ears in the woods, and all of the other dished out on social media but unable to defend themselves. In your place of work how would you volunteers who are involved in so many feel to be slated as frequently? We all have bad aspects of our work.’ days, grumpy with everybody days, and having worked personally in an industry where you have to be polite to all, it is sometimes difficult to keep Kind regards a lid on your feelings. Surgery staff are no different Jo Roberts to the rest of us. Community Engagement Officer It is a well - documented fact that the NHS is Direct line: 01234 762608 under terrific strain, surgeries are closing or Mobile: 07458 125795 amalgamating, experienced NHS staff are retiring and the flow of young newly trained doctors and nurses coming into the NHS is a nationwide crisis. Forest of Marston Vale, The Forest Centre, Wouldn’t it be great if we all lived in Doc Martin’s Station Road, Marston Moretaine, Bedford world, where you can get an appointment, blood MK43 0PR test, scan and results all in the space of twenty- four hours. Did those days ever exist? We wish!
So please do consider your actions before you reach for social media. We all understand how frustrating it is if you can’t get an appointment but we do have one of the best medical services in the world and in an emergency, we know who to turn to. Major breakthroughs in the treatments of many diseases means we stand a better chance of recovery and apart from our national insurance contributions whilst working, it’s FREE!
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 17 New Health Studio Open Now: Kempston, Woburn Road Industrial Estate
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18 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS
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The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 19
Forever Launch Leaflet_April 2019.indd 2 15/04/2019 10:57 Outstanding Parish Council Issues & Projects Item Location Deadline
Average Speed Cameras All major routes within the village Ongoing A need for Average Speed Cameras was identified during the Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire process by residents. BBC (1.) has confirmed it expects to award the contract following a tender process in October 2019, although works will most likely start in early 2020. WPC (2.) is paying for these cameras using its Community Infrastructure Levy funding (3.) and s106 Developer Contributions
Community Centre Berryfields Ongoing The charitable trust has been formed and all legal matters are being finalised. Bookings and general enquiries should be addressed to [email protected]. There is also a Facebook page too: https://www.facebook.com/Wootton-Community- Centre-373702299872573/
Covanta Incinerator Stewartby parish Ongoing Please visit the following links for fuller information: https://bedsagainstincinerator. wordpress.com/ or BACI’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ residentsagainstcovanta/?ref=bookmarks
Local Plan 2035 (now 2030) Throughout the village Ongoing The Local Plan 2030 has been examined by independent examiners and a copy of their report can be viewed here: https://www.bedford.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning-policy-its-purpose/local- plan-2030/
Lorraine Road Lorraine Road cemetery Ongoing Cemetery extension WPC is ringfencing money annually and will approach the Crown Estate (adjoining landowners) to request it be permitted to purchase an area of land adjacent to the existing cemetery in order to extend it
Marston Vale Innovation Park Towards the A421 Ongoing BBC approved the proposal despite WPC’s and numerous objections. A Development Liaison Group (consisting of parish councillors and residents) met in July 2019 with representatives from BBC and Goodmans (who will be developing the Innovation Park). The idea is to pass as much information on to residents to keep everyone informed on latest developments. The larger unit is almost complete but is not yet occupied.
Memorial Hall Play Area Memorial Hall, Bedford Road 2019 resurfacing WPC wishes to resurface underneath the existing play equipment in order to make it safer and easier to use in bad weather and intends to use either s106 Developer Contributions or Community Infrastructure Levy funding
20 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) Recreation ground, Church Road 2019 resurfacing The MUGA has now been resurfaced and is open again for bookings (businesses and sports teams) and free play for individuals. Move to close
Neighbourhood Plan The whole civil parish of Wootton 2019 Findings from the second consultation (entitled Issues & Options) were published on WPC’s website and the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group continues to make good progress towards delivering a Neighbourhood Plan that meets resident’s wants and needs
Real Time Passenger Four bus stop sites within the village 2019 Information (bus stops) Four electronic real time passenger information units are now in place. WPC is planning to add more, again using community infrastructure levy funding.
Roads and Pavements Throughout the village Ongoing (including proposed crossings for Bedford Road) The Roads & Pavements Safety Steering Group continues to meet every other month to raise issues (including parking restrictions) for BBC to consider. Residents are welcome to attend those meetings. Minutes to view are available at: http://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk/files/ index?folder_id=10434511 (or request a hard copy from the clerk)
St. Mary’s stone St. Mary’s Church Ongoing and railing cemetery wall Funds have been earmarked to repair or replace as necessary, as both are in a poor state of repair. A fallen ash tree (December 2016) necessitated some works already and WPC has taken forward a structural engineer report which highlighted the wall’s instability in parts. Advice has been sought from Historic England and BBC and the parish council is looking to also seek advice from a suitably qualified brickwork specialist
Street lights Throughout the village Ongoing WPC is in talks with BBC on a proposal for the ownership/maintenance of all street lights to be transferred to BBC. The project has been delayed as BBC have had numerous similar requests from other parish and town councils, so need to agree how best to proceed
Wootton Village sign(s) Various locations 2020 The sign on Bedford/Wootton Road has been cleaned up and re-lettered. A flower bed has been added at the front and has now been planted. Please look for the article elsewhere in this newsletter for the choices bring proposed for the entrance at Keeley Lane.
Key: 1. Bedford Borough Council 2. Wootton Parish Council 3. For further information on what Community Infrastructure Levy funding and s106 Developer Contributions are please visit: https://www.bedford.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning-policy-its-purpose/community- infrastructure-levy/ Please note this is a brief overview of ongoing/proposed projects and the list is not exhaustive as changes can occur before the next newsletter edition goes to print. For fuller information on these or other projects, please contact the Clerk to the Council.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 21 Wootton's Annual Remembrance Day Holywell & Marston Vale Middle Schools, Explorers, 1st and 2nd Wootton Rainbows and Wootton Rangers Youth FC also marched in the parade. The Bedfordshire lest Constabulary provided road safety we supervision. The Parade Commander advised those forget present of the procedure that was to be followed and then at 10.05hrs called the parade to attention. The parade then proceeded in good order and to the Wootton’s Annual Remembrance Day sound of the drums and music from the parade, service and wreath laying musicians, from the recreation ground ceremony took place on Sunday 10th into Church Road and thence past the War November 2019. Memorial (eyes left) to the entrance to St. Mary’s church. The British Legion Flag The parade, organised by Borough/ bearer left the parade to take position in Parish Councillor John Wheeler and front of the church porch and was joined Parish Council Chairman Gareth Lloyd, by other flag bearers. assembled at 9.45hrs in bright sunshine on the recreation ground car park, adjacent to The Service of Remembrance in Saint Church Road. The parade was extremely Mary’s Church was so very well attended well supported, with the attendance of that many of the congregation were many members of the public. The Parade without seats. The service was conducted Commander was Steven R. Rowse late of by Canon Peter Ackroyd assisted by the Royal Air Force. Leading the parade the Revd Phillip Young, who led the with the Royal British Legion flag held prayers. Col Colin Mason OBE, Vice Lord high was Legionnaire Bob Keech, followed Lieutenant of Bedfordshire (ret’d) gave the by the marching Band of the Boys & Girls reading. The Act of Remembrance, the list Brigade. In uniformed attendance on of all those whose names appear on the parade were:- Wootton war memorial was read by Steven Rowse who also asked for remembrance 1st Wootton Scouts of those who have died in other conflicts, 1st Wootton Guides including the Falklands, Afghanistan, Iraq, 1st Wootton Cubs Iran & Northern Ireland. At 11.00hrs the 1st Wootton Beavers Last Post was sounded by Buglers of 2nd Wootton Brownies the Boys Brigade, Dave Simms and Andy 1st Wootton Brownies Gray, a two minute silence was observed, Boys Brigade followed by the sounding of Reveille. Girls Brigade After the service, the parade re-formed Borough Councillor John Wheeler and and proceeded to the War Memorial for members of Wootton Parish Council, a wreath laying ceremony witnessed by Wootton Upper, Wootton Lower, more than 500 people.
22 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Wreaths were laid on behalf of:-
Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis, The Royal British Legion, Bedford Borough Mayor, Borough Councillor John Wheeler, Wootton Parish Council, the Upper & Lower schools of Wootton, Marston Vale and Holywell Middle schools, Cubs, Scouts, Guides, Brownies, Beavers, Wootton Rainbows, Boys Brigade, Girls Brigade, Wootton Community First Responders, Wootton Busy Bees Preschool, Wootton Rangers Youth FC, St. Marys Playgroup, Women’s Institute and Military Families of Wootton.
Other personal tokens of remembrance were also placed by the memorial.
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
Speedwatch The Wootton Speedwatch group feels that it has made a difference to the speed of traffic going down Fields Road between 7.45 and 8.45 am as very few motorists have been caught during the last patrols. We do realise that there are speeding cars early in the morning and late at night, but our priority is the safety of children and parents who are making their way to and from the various schools. In one hour we experience a volume of 450-500 cars proceeding towards the A421 from the roundabout at the Cock Inn. This doesn’t include traffic from Berryfields! Please get in touch if you feel that you could help us out - my details can be As usual I am very appreciative of my found elsewhere in the magazine.+ stalwart helpers; Keith Randell, Les Dick and Graham Ward. It would be We shall endeavour to carry out 2 more great to have a few more volunteers. patrols before Christmas before the days The Abbeyfields estate in Elstow has 10 become too short and the weather too volunteers and recently borrowed our cold! equipment to carry out a patrol. Elstow and Stewartby also borrow the equipment Malcolm Chalmers and regularly catch speeding vehicles - Speedwatch Co-ordinator some exceeding 50mph in a 30 zone.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 23 Wootton Vale Healthy Living Centre
Wootton Vale Healthy Living Centre is working hard in finding new ways to improve services and has recently appointed a Clinical Pharmacist. The role of the clinical pharmacist is medicines optimisation which means ensuring patients are on the correct medication We're going and educating patients on how they paperless can manage their long term conditions whether through medication or by other approaches. The surgery has employed a new system of working known as the to send your prescriptions electronically ‘Birthday review.’ This is where each patient therefore saving paper as well as keeping will get a reminder requesting them to up the drive to make the NHS fit for the make an appointment to have their annual 21st century. medication review in their birth month. In order that we can contact you through our Another way to improve your NHS care clinical computer system please make is by ensuring that your summary care sure we have your “preferred contact record can be shared between healthcare method” recorded (mobile, email or providers for example hospitals to ensure online account) so you are able to receive that they have access to a summary of these messages from us. If you have a your record ensuring that they have full long-term condition such as; asthma, information before making any decisions diabetes, hypertension or COPD then you related to your care. Record sharing allows will be requested to make your annual your care to be transferred seamlessly long-term condition check alongside the between different care settings gives you medication review. It is important that you better care and reduces risks. do not just book this with the GP as we need to ensure that you are seen by the You can help by ensuring that your clinicians who have checked your record preferred contact details are up to date and has prepared for your review. The at Wootton Vale Healthy Living Centre aim of this system is to try and ensure an including nominating a pharmacy to annual check has been done within your receive your prescriptions electronically, birth month allowing us to work towards a giving consent to allow summary care records to be shared between care Our other news, is that practices settings and by opening an online account. are endeavouring to become more You can do this by dropping us a note or by environmentally aware and become completing an update form at the surgery paperless, as this will increase efficiency or on our website www.wootonvale.co.uk and save the NHS up to an estimated £300m a year by 2021. One way of achieving this is by stopping paper Let us all work together in providing a prescriptions and setting up electronic more effective and streamlined service. prescriptions. By ensuring you have a nominated pharmacy attached to your record at the surgery means we are able
24 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS MIXED ABILITY PILATES CLASSES
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The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 25 Wootton Village Agent News
Foodbank vouchers – if you are struggling to keep yourself fed properly due to a temporary change in income such as a benefits issue, then Andrea can issue a Foodbank voucher to tide you over. Contact her in confidence.
Village Agents provide a free, confidential service and are here to help people over 65 with a variety of issues – large or small.
We are funded by Bedford Borough Council. We are all DBS checked and operate in the strictest confidence. Andrea is the Village Agent for Wootton. Help with form filling – many older people Warm Home Discount Scheme – the winter aren’t claiming the benefits they are entitled 2019/2020 scheme has now opened. If you to. Andrea can help identify which benefits have a gross household income of less you can claim by doing a confidential than £16,000 and are over 65 then you may benefits check. She can also help you fill in qualify for a £140 discount off your electricity those complicated forms such as Pension bill. Most energy suppliers are part of Credit, Blue Badge, Council Tax Reduction, the scheme. The criteria varies between Housing Benefit and Attendance Allowance suppliers so if you need help finding out if forms. you qualify, then contact Andrea. Funds are limited and discounts are given on a first Please call Andrea, come first served basis. your Village Agent on
St John’s Hospital Trust – a quarterly payment of £75 can be given to people Freephone 0800 039 1234 This is an answerphone service, so please leave over 65 who are on a low income who have your name address & telephone number, & we little or no savings. That’s £300 per year. aim to call you back within 48 hours To qualify, you must have lived in Bedford Borough for at least 15 years and be over 65. Contact Andrea for more details.
NHS Carer’s Grant – if you are an unpaid family carer then you could be entitled to apply for a grant of up to £300 per year to pay for a service, item or activity which improves your health and wellbeing. Carers in Bedfordshire administer the grants and Andrea can assist you in applying.
26 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Girlguiding is the leading charity for girls and young women in the UK, with over 500,000 members.
Thanks to the dedication and support of over 100,000 amazing volunteers, we are active in every part of the UK, giving girls and young women a space person we’re looking for? You’ll have fun where they can be themselves, have doing activities with girls aged 7-10, giving fun, build brilliant friendships, gain girls a safe space and working with a team of valuable life skills and make a positive awesome volunteers! difference to their lives and their communities. Volunteering with Girlguiding is flexible and fun. There’s the chance to gain qualifications We build girls’ confidence and raise in leadership, residentials and more – as well their aspirations. We give them the as empowering the next generation of young chance to discover their full potential women. We would love to hear from new and encourage them to be a powerful volunteers who can support existing units, force for good. We give them a space open new ones and make sure that every girl to have fun. We run Rainbows (5–7 has a chance to be part of Girlguiding. years), Brownies (7–10 years), Guides (10–14 years) and Rangers (14–18 You can help give girls opportunities for fun, years). friendship, challenge and adventure! Could you help inspire the next generation of There are several active Rainbow, women in Wootton? Brownie and Guide units in Wootton (and further afield in Kempston, Contact Elizabeth Wainwright at Girlguiding Bedford and beyond). Girlguiding Bedford South Ouse district on 07966 983532 groups in Wootton are very popular – or email [email protected]. some units have waiting lists and we want to give every girl the opportunity Find out more about volunteering with to join. Girlguiding at girlguiding.org.uk/get- involved. 2nd Wootton Brownies needs a new main leader – a new Brown Sarah Joy Owl – otherwise the unit will close (Rainbow, Guide & Ranger leader in Kempston at Christmas 2019. Could you be the & Wootton)
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 27 MARIA’S SEWING SERVICES WOOTTON
Alterations and repairs to everything from clothing to curtains.
Cushions and blinds made.
Free measuring and estimating service.
Please call to discuss:
Tel: 01234 297539 Mob: 07921 613038
28 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Wootton WI - INSPIRING WOMEN
In August we held our Celebration Party to mark We also remain indebted to the staff at our 100th The Legstraps for allowing us to hold our birthday. We committee meetings in their snug every were provided with a wonderful afternoon month. tea by Gemma from The Copper Kitchen. Everybody who attended, marvelled at the beautiful old china and embroidered tablecloths by provided Gemma, forthcoming some recognising china meetings patterns from days growing up when china tea services were in use Future Meetings are: for more than just special occasions. Gemma also gave us a potted history of how afternoon tea started with November 20th the Duchess of Bedford. African Inspired Mosaics with Dionne Ible We continued our celebrations, in December 18th September, with Christmas Party the unveiling of January 15th our plaque outside Games Evening and Fundraising. the Memorial Hall accompanied by tea and cake plus artefacts from our original minute book All visitors welcome at a cost of £4pp documenting the very first meeting. including tea or coffee and a biscuit. Members lent items they had made at workshops and courses. We were amazed Meetings start at 7-30pm in the at the talent amongst our members. Gareth Memorial Hall. Lloyd and John Wheeler kindly attended the unveiling, representing the Parish Council. Look for us on Facebook under Wootton Beds Women’s Institute. Many thanks to the members who provided Message us for any further cake, made the tea and most importantly information and somebody will helped with the fundraising to complement endeavour to reply as quickly as possible. the grant given by the Parish Council that allowed this to happen.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 29 Looking ahead at Wootton Library
We are having Tea/Coffee and Mince Pies on Friday 20th December between 2.15pm – 4.15pm, please come along with your friends for a warm welcome and a chat.
We have some wonderful crafts during the Christmas holidays, please see below for our programme of events.
30th November 11.00am -12.30pm 27th December 2.00pm-4.30pm Make a Christmas Car Make a Snowman Pom Pom Lego/Colouring/Jigsaw Club Lego/Colouring Club
7th December 11.00am-12.30pm 28th December 11.00am -12.30pm Make a Christmas Card Make a Bookmark Lego/Colouring/Jigsaw Club Lego/Colouring/Jigsaw Club
14th December 11.00am-12.30pm 30th December 2.00pm-4.30pm Make a Christmas Card Make a Calendar Lego/Colouring/Jigsaw Club Lego/Colouring Club
21st December 11.00am-12.30pm 31st December 10.00am-11.30am Decorate a Christmas Decoration Lego/ Lucky Dip Crafts Colouring/Jigsaw Club 2nd January 10.00am-11.30am 23rd December 2.00pm- 4.30pm Finger Painting Decorate a Star Wreath Colouring Club Lego/Colouring Club 3rd January 2.00pm-4.30pm 24th December 10.00am- 11.30am Snowman Collage Decorate a Christmas Tree/Stocking Lego/Colouring Club Colouring Club 4th January 11.00am-12.30pm Lucky Dip Crafts
30 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS
Don’t Forget our Regular Events: 1st Saturday of each month – Councillor Surgery (11.00am-12 noon) Tuesdays (2.00-4.30pm) – Adult board games/Bridge Club Wednesdays (2:30-3:30pm) – Are You Sitting Comfortably? And tea at 3:00pm Thursdays (10:30 – 11:30pm) – Crafty Thursday for Adults Fridays (2:00 – 3:00pm) – Knit and Natter
Don't Forget our Regular Events: 1st Saturday of eachPlus: month- – Councillor Surgery (11.00am-12 noon)
Tuesdays (2.00-4.30pm) – Adult board games/Bridge Club Funtime for the Under 5s – Mondays Wednesdays (2:30-3:30pm) – Are You Sitting Comfortably? And tea at 3:00pm (2:30 - 2:50pm) – Term time only Colouring Club – Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays Thursdays (10:30 – 11:30pm) – Crafty Thursday for Adults (3:30 – 4:30pm) Fridays (2:00 – 3:00pm) – Knit and Natter Saturdays (11:00 – 12:30pm) Lego Club – Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays (3:45 – 4:45pm) Saturdays (11 – 12:30pm) Baby Fun-Time (for 0-18mths), Tuesdays Plus (10.15-10.45am) – Term time only Jigsaw Club – Saturdays (11:00am – 12:30pm Funtime for the Under 5s – Mondays (2:30 - 2:50pm) – STermtory ttimeime wonlyith Ted –Thursdays (10.30-10.50am) – Term time only Tiddlers and Toddlers (for 18mths-4 yrs), Fridays Colouring Club – Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays (3:30 – 4:30pm) 2.15-2.45pm) –Term time only Saturdays (11:00 – 12:30pm) Craft – Saturdays (11.00am – 12.30pm)
Lego Club – Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays (3:45 – 4:45pm) Saturdays (11 – 12:30pm)
Baby Fun-Time (for 0-18mths), Tuesdays (10.15-10.45am) – Term time only
Jigsaw Club – Saturdays (11:00am – 12:30pm Storytime with Ted –Thursdays (10.30-10.50am) – Term time only
Tiddlers and Toddlers (for 18mths-4 yrs), Fridays 2.15-2.45pm) –Term time only
Craft – Saturdays (11.00am – 12.30pm)
For more information visit the Virtual Library www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries For more information visit the Virtual Library www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 31 Wootton Baptist Church something to do, while he had a rest. He cut up a map of the world and challenged him to put it together in the right order. He was surprised that his son did it so quickly. He asked his son how he had done it so fast and the boy replied, ‘there was a picture of a man on the other side. I put the man right and the world came right too.’ Its not just a change of mind we need, but a change of heart. That is what Easter is all about, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, when he paid our debt to God, by taking the punishment, which Well, will it be BREXIT or won’t it? Who can should have been ours. Jesus said we must tell? This is of great interest to many people, be born again. That is a change of heart. but before then, a General Election. In this political upheaval we need something to But Easter is a long way of, we have be done to settle the fragmentation of our Christmas first. It should be a happy, joyful society. time, for everyone, as we think if the birth of the Saviour of the world. We are told He Our greatly privileged country seems to be came to bring peace on earth. I don’t see a tearing its self apart with crime at its highest lot of peace in the world as wars seem to be level ever. (Don’t believe the statistics.) everywhere. But the peace He gives is not There must be something wrong. There the peace of this world, but the Peace of God seems to be a complete breakdown of which we all need in our lives. Christmas will morality. As the Bible says in Exodus 15, be a happy time for many, but there will be because there was no King in the Land, people in our village who will feel the loss of ‘everyone did that which was right in his own loved ones and an empty place at the dinner eyes.’ There was no authority there. table. Probably we can help someone who is in this situation. As Christians, living in a growing village, we believe that the only answer to our We have our Christmas programme as usual: situation is to be found in Jesus Christ. No Friday 20th December at 7.30pm. Carols only did He teach a moral code, which we in the Baptist Church Hall with the Bedford have largely abandoned. He also upheld Town band and refreshments and a speaker. the Ten Commandments, given to us in the early chapters of the Bible. Sadly, we are Sunday 22nd December: Family Carol unable to keep those Commandments and Service at 10.30am. And Carols by Candle therefore no one is good enough for God. light at 6.00pm.
There is a lovely quote in the letter which Christmas Eve: 7.00pm Carols by candle Paul wrote to the Christians in Philippi, which light. says: Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever We hope everyone will have a truly ‘Happy is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything Christmas’ and know the peace of God in your is excellent or praiseworthy – think on these hearts. things.’ For and on behalf of the fellowship. Jesus made a way for us to be made right Rob Stanton with God. I am reminded of the story of a Minister who wanted to give his son
32 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Knowing Jesus; www.stmaryswootton.org.uk Making Jesus Known to all is the heartbeat of St Mary’s. Christmas at St. Mary’s Sunday Services Sun 10 Dec 4pm Christingle 9am Common Worship Service 10.30am Morning Service - Sun 17 Dec 10.30am Nativity Service including young people’s 6pm Carols by Candlelight groups. Sat 24 Dec 4pm Family Carols 11pm Midnight Communion Christianity Explored Sun 25 Dec 10.30am All-Age Service Regular groups; see our website.
Pathfinders (ages 9 13) Weds 7pm term time Church Hall. Christmas at St. Mary’s J.A.M (ages 14 18) Sundays 7.15pm term time Sunday 8 December Church Hall. 4pm Christingle Sunday 22 December Wrigglers Parent & 10.30am Nativity Service toddler group. Every 6pm Carols by Candlelight Monday in term time 10am Wootton Baptist Tuesday 24 December 4pm Family Carols Men Behaving Dadly 11pm Midnight Communion Group for Dads and their Wednesday 25 December 0-12 year olds. Last Sat of the month 9am. 10.30am Family Service
Lunch Club Monthly on Mondays, 1pm, Church Hall 9 Dec.
Revd Peter Ackroyd: 768391 Revd Phillip Young 401462 from Church Office: 765375 hello
We are a referring agent for the Bedford Foodbank. If you know of anyone in crisis contact us in confidence.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 33 Wootton Upper School Phone 01234 767123 Email [email protected]
Wootton Upper School, Hall End Road, Wootton, MK43 9HT
When Wootton Upper School’s GCSE awards evening on December 2nd. This results were published at the end of year our guest speaker was Sir Peter August almost all pupils were delighted Gregson, Vice Chancellor and Chief by the outcomes they received. As usual Executive of Cranfield University, who lots of pupils achieve results at grades 9 – presented GCSE certificates to pupils. 7, the new A* - A grade boundary. Over 40 pupils achieved at least 5 GCSE grades at We held our Open Evening at Wootton this level [see our website for newsletters in September and at Kimberley in with more details]. Many congratulations November. These events were very to every pupil on their results. In terms of popular with large numbers of families the progress pupils made in secondary attending. The state-of-the-art facilities education from Year 7 – Year 11, we are at Kimberley, Bedfordshire’s largest sixth confident that once again we shall be form college never ceases to impress one of Bedfordshire’s highest performing visitors and therefore, we are hopeful that schools and certainly in the top 25%. The a further 300 students will join the Trust’s fact our pupils make such good progress Sixth Form College next September. is partly due to the good schools from For more information about Kimberley, which they join Wootton Upper School. please visit’s its website.
At Kimberley the results were also very In November, we staged the musical, pleasing and well over 90% of students Be More Chill, a modern piece that, achieved the result they needed to somehow, Wootton Academy Trust start at their first choice university. This was given permission - by Rogers and year two students our off to Cambridge Hammerstein - to produce in between University and lots of others have chosen the musical’s long running Broadway other prestigious university destinations production – which only closed at the end such as Imperial College, UCL and so of August 2019 and the London West End on. Other students have moved on production which opens next February. to universities which are recognized Knowing this fact, sitting in the audience nationally for specific courses such as on the first night, was very special for all of graphics and animation at the University us. We really must not take it for granted of Hertfordshire. The Trust’s careers staff that we are so lucky to have staff and also helped lots of students to secure students who are so willing to give their great higher level apprenticeships giving time working immensely hard to achieve these students the opportunity to “learn stunningly good shows. Special thanks and earn”. go to our choreographer, Mrs Gaishauser, Head of Dance, director, Miss Robinson, Therefore, both the school and the Head of Drama, and to Mr Hooper, Acting college came back in September in very Head of Music, who between them good heart. We celebrated students’ moulded a fifty-strong cast and band to examination results and Duke of Edinburgh create a performance to remember. The Award outcomes at the school’s annual entire production lived up to our motto,
34 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS
Restrictions- The performance rights for Be More Chill have been hired by Wootton Academy Trust. The Licensor, R & H Theatricals Europe Ltd for Be More Chill states that any unauthorised recording of this amateur performance in any manner whatsoever is strictly prohibited. Thank you.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 35 the pursuit of excellence and our three good health and happiness in 2020. values, aspiration, belief in ourselves and opportunity for all.
Amongst other events this term, pupils have been to football internationals, trips to the theatre and opera, work place visits [we now have a programme where all Year 10 pupils will visit work place locations to meet employers], numerous sporting fixtures, HMS Belfast and the Imperial War Museum as well as taking the Be More Chill Production on tour to Bremen – possibly for the very first production of that show in Germany. The only thing that did not happen was Wootton Good a planned visit to Parliament at the end of November for our Government and Neighbour Scheme Politics students. You will know the reason for that cancellation if you are reading this Here at Wootton good neighbour article in early December! Scheme, we have been extremely busy this year, and would like We have our own special event on to say a big thank you to those December 12, the Wootton Academy who help with the Scheme and Trust Christmas Concert in the Theatre to all the lovely people we meet Hall at Wootton Upper School. Since throughout the year. Mr Hooper joined the Trust in mid- September he has worked incredibly hard to prepare not only Be More Chill, but also The Scheme will be closed a special evening of festive music. Please from telephone the school office,01234 767123, Friday 20th DECEMBER 5pm if you would like more information. until MONDAY 6th JANUARY 2020 Our last day of term is on Friday December 20 2019. We return on Monday January 6 at 9.30am. 2020. We do NOT have a training day at the start of the spring term, but we will be closed for staff development on Friday We wish you all a very happy February 14 and closed also the following Christmas and new year. week, because it is half term.
Thank you all for your good wishes, support, interest and also, to all of you Tel. 07717 770247 who I know pray for our school and college, the pupils, staff and governors, for your prayers. Thank you.
Finally, we would like to wish everybody in the village a very merry Christmas and
36 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 37 The Club stealing from innocent men and women. Breaking into other peoples’ houses, violating their homes, taking treasured possessions that had great sentimental It wasn’t like a club at all, in any value, and which could never be replaced. conventional sense of the word. They never They could then be selling their ill- got together at set times – never even met gotten gains in pubs, or at car boot sales, each other. No weekly meetings, no games oblivious to the effect of their loss on the or sports, no whist drives, or afternoon teas. lives of their rightful owners. They could There was no clubhouse, no equipment or even be using eBay. There are always specified dress code. unscrupulous people who don’t ask questions about provenance if they think It was bizarre that it was even called a they’re getting a bargain. “Club”. They could have been wicked people The one thing that all the members of this who carried out scams, usually on older club had in common was money. Or rather, citizens, to con savings from pensioners the need to accumulate of extra money, and anyone gullible enough to believe so they could buy themselves ever more their fabricated tales of investments, or expensive things, either for themselves, or time share properties. for friends and family. Whatever the source of the money, the They needed to be constantly acquiring members of this Club were constantly additional sums of cash, in order that each striving to increase the total of their of them could increase their personal personal wealth, in order that they could wealth. eventually satisfy their need to spend more and more. They would buy ever To an observer, it would appear that greed increasing numbers of things they wanted, was their motivation, and the root cause of at ever increasing prices. their all being members of this particular Club. But was it? You judge for yourselves Does that still sound like the Greedy Club, after I’ve given you some more information. or the Criminals Club? Were they engaged in illegal, nefarious activities, to acquire the money that they Or of course, the additional sums of continuously found necessary to keep money the members were accumulating adding to their total stash? could have come from fully legal sources. They could have had small wins on scratch They could have been thieves and burglars, cards, or come up on the Lottery itself.
38 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Of course, if any of those sums had been Well, were they greedy, or not? very large, there would have been less Well, the members would certainly be motivation to continue their membership horrified if that’s what you called them. of this Club, but that varied enormously from member to member. After all, some of them had been in the Co-operative Society’s Christmas Savings Whatever the source of the injections of Club for years! cash, the desire and motivation remained the same. At the end of the day, they had to have more money to spend. Colin Zardin
FOREST OF MARSTON VALE GIVES AWAY TREES FOR Plant One On Us
Having planted over 2 million trees in the Marston Vale, the charity are in the midst of confirming a public tree planting site for winter 2020 but for the second year running, are offering free trees to local residents to plant in their gardens.
Residents of the 61 square mile Forest of Marston Vale can apply online for one tree, or more depending on the size of their land, now.
“As it’s a community forest we love working with local people whenever we can; every single tree helps us towards our vision of creating a Forest legacy for future generations.” Said Community Engagement Officer Jo Roberts.
Last year, over 300 trees were planted in gardens throughout the Forest, as part of the project’s first year.
Plant One On Us is in partnership with Blue Chip who are funding the materials for the project.
Find out more at www.marstonvale.org
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 39 Weekly Auctions Visit the Bedford Auction Centre to enjoy the excitement of a live auction. Antique & Modern Furniture • Clocks • Books Ceramics & Glassware • Pictures & Prints Bicycles • Jewellery & Watches • Collectables Garage Tools & Equipment • Household Electrical Items Office Furniture & Equipment • Retail Products & Stock Vehicles • Horticultural & Commercial Equipment Building Materials • Garden Furniture & Effects
Eastcotts Park, Wallis Way, Bedford MK42 0PE 01234 266 366 peacockauction.co.uk
40 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Limericks written by KEP
A bright young girl called Jenny There was a big eater named Janet Of friends she had very many Who gobbled her food like a Gannet But she was known to be tight She wanted to slim Because when partying at night And appear quite thin She wouldn’t even spend a penny So she restricted her diet to one pomegranate. A regular church goer named Ken In the service, fell asleep now and then. When it was time to take part I know a young man called Ivor He would awake with a start Who decided to be a taxi driver And embarrass his wife shouting “Amen” But it didn’t last long He got it all wrong As he charged all the trips at a fiver. There was a young man named Ted Who refused to get out of his bed. The doctor said “There’s nothing wrong You won’t have to wait too long I once knew a trainee chef called Sue If you give him some figs when he’s fed” As to cooking, she hadn’t a clue. She cooked the greens too long Till they gave off a pong And the meat was too tough to chew. In the kitchen a trainee chef called Linda Was arguing with her friend called Lucinder They could not agree At school I had a friend called Julie Two vegetables or three Whose hair was always unruly. Meanwhile the meat was burnt to a If she wore it plaited or tied cinder. Straight, curly or dyed It didn’t seem to worry her unduly
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 41 20 years ago..... Interesting facts in that newsletter are-
• When Wootton Upper School was opened in 1975 its intended title was ‘Wootton Community College’. The change of title was explained by the cash crisis of the mid 70’s which meant that some facilities, such as a larger Performing Arts Centre and a wider array of Sporting Facilities, were not provided.
• In 1999 the Borough Council issued an amended Development Brief for Wootton. There were to be an additional 904 houses in the Fields Road area – up from the 600 houses previously proposed. What have we now? – upwards of 1400!!!
• The Parish Council objected strongly to the development but, at the same time, conducted surveys with parishioners to produce a wish list of extra facilities for the village if the development happened. Some of these were-
In November 1999, 20 years ago, the first i) extra primary school with the two schools issue of Wootton News was produced to be run as one body – this happened and distributed to all households in the ii) pedestrian safety at the old school village. Since then the Newsletter has should be improved – a zebra crossing been produced every three months. This installed in October this year!! December Issue will be number 80. The iii) a new playing field area with a large stated aim was ‘to keep people informed floodlit artificial surface area to include a of local affairs and events’. It is believed 11-a-side football pitch – money will be that over the years this aim has been met. available from the current development to implement this starting in 2020 The first editions were produced in iv) A small supermarket (350 m2) – under conjunction with Wootton Upper School. construction now The newsletter was copied by the repro department and a few helpers collated As they say most things come to those and stapled the magazines together. who wait. Many thanks were given to Tony Withell, the headmaster at that time, and to Linda • Looking through the newsletter familiar Gray (Tony’s secretary) who organized the names appeared then and in the current printing. issue - - Wootton Pharmacy advertised in that The front cover was a drawn by year 13 first issue and have probably advertised in student Nathan Costall – I wonder where each issue since. Well done to Arif and Raj he is now. - Paul Quirk and Bob Wallace are still
42 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Parish councillors. only publish what you give us. Articles of general interest to the village are needed - Dorothy (Acorn Quilters), Jenny (Village such as people’s achievements, items of Hall bookings) and Rob (Baptist Church) historical interest and regular updates of are still listed in the Contacts Directory. what goes on in your village clubs and organisations. 20 years on, Wootton News is an essential part of communication in our village. Here’s to the next 20 years.
However, what was said in that first edition The November 1999 edition can be still applies – viewed on the Parish Council website.
‘We (the editors) look to you (villagers) to Cllr Bob Wallace supply articles and advertising. We can
Streetwatch Wootton are looking for new volunteers to join the existing team. Streetwatch volunteers carry out patrol in the local area providing reassurance and a visible presence to the community.
Streetwatch aims to prevent crime by improving security, increasing vigilance and assisting the local policing teams by promoting effective communication and the prompt reporting of activity. Streetwatch helps to tackle low level issues and anti-social behaviour and patrol are targeted in areas where residents of the community have raised concerns.
Training is provided and all we ask is that you commit to two hours a month at a time to suit yourself.
For further details on how to join Streetwatch in Wootton please contact [email protected]
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 43 WOOTTON NEW LIFE METHODIST CHURCH Join us to celebrate Christmas Saturday 7th December 10.00am Deck the Halls Christmas crafts for all the family ***** Friday 13th December 11.00am Cafe Carols in The Hub ***** Sunday 15th December 9.45am Nativity & Gift Service Join us for breakfast followed at 10.30am by our nativity & gift service ***** Christmas Eve 7.00pm Carols by Candlelight ***** Christmas Day 10.00am Christmas Day Family Service ***** Cause End Road, Wootton. MK43 9FE woottonnewlife.org.uk
Merry Christmas from all of us at Wootton New Life Church
44 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS