What the Care Act Will Mean for You the Council Is Preparing for the Most Significant Changes in Adult Social Care in More Than 60 Years

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Issue 152 February 2015 Lutonline www.luton.gov.uk Luton Borough Council’s newspaper for local people Twitter: @lutoncouncil Facebook: Luton Council More help to stay well for longer in your own home What the Care Act will mean for you The Council is preparing for the most significant changes in adult social care in more than 60 years. Due to be implemented nationwide from April, the Care Act will bring a sharper focus on ‘preventative’ approaches aimed at helping people stay well in their own homes for longer. Almost all existing adult social care legislation will be replaced, and the Act also introduces a range of new responsibilities for the Council. The changes aim to make care and support services clearer and fairer for everybody, and make it easier for people to plan ahead. New national minimum eligibility criteria will be set for all councils across England, replacing a current system in which each council sets its own criteria for who is or is not eligible for adult social care services. Luton’s informal carers, who look after a friend, relative or neighbour because of ill health, disability or old age, will also benefit by receiving the right to ask for support. Other changes will see increased support through information, advice and advocacy, and the introduction of a cap on care costs to limit the amount individuals have to pay for their own care. The cap, which is currently The Care Act will deliver increased support and a cap limiting the amount individuals have to pay for their own care proposed to be £72,000, is expected to be introduced from April 2016. adult social care for a number of decades and support services. already thinking about your future care The Council has started a public and we are working hard behind the “Our services will not only be needs, it’s important to plan ahead. I information campaign to raise awareness scenes to ensure everything is in place. expanded for current users, but also so encourage people to get in touch or to of the changes so that people can find “While some of the details are still that all Luton residents have access to look at our website to find out more out how the Care Act might affect them being finalised and consulted on at a care services and receive information about what the changes may mean for and start planning ahead. national level, we do know the new focus and advice to make good decisions about you and your family.” Cllr Mahmood Hussain, Portfolio fits well with the Council’s priority of their current or future care needs. ●● For more information visit www.luton. Holder for adult social care, said: “The ensuring people stay healthy for longer “Whether you are a current social gov.uk/CareAct, email CareAct@luton. Care Act will bring the biggest reforms to to prevent and delay the need for care care service user, a carer or you are gov.uk or call 01582 547659.

www.luton.gov.uk 2 Lutonline February 2015 Lutonline The newspaper of Luton Borough Council Keeping our community safe

Main switchboard 01582 54 60 00 Editorial Lutonline welcomes suggestions for content. New web pages to help fight cybercrime 01582 54 74 02 Advertising 01582 54 64 85 [email protected] For information on all Council Bedfordshire Police are urging services visit: people to ‘control, report and www.luton.gov.uk delete’ cybercrime following the Lutonline is delivered to 72,000 homes in launch of a range of advice and the borough. Private advertising keeps resources to help them stay safe production costs to a minimum. while on the internet. Advertising policy The [Ctrl] +[Rpt] +[Del] campaign Whilst we welcome paid advertising into Lutonline, aims to educate people on how to avoid the Council does not represent or endorse the falling victim to internet criminals. accuracy, quality or reliability of any advertised Detective Superintendent Jon Gilbert, products, services or companies, nor claims by such advertisements. The Council does not accept any leading the force’s cybercrime team, to. We want to raise awareness of the responsibility or liability in relation to any products, said: “Over the next month we will be ways that victims can report these to the services, information or other materials purchased highlighting through our website and various agencies. If you are a victim of or obtained in connection with any of these our social media channels different cybercrime, you should report it quickly advertisements. forms of online crime and ways to as the authorities could help support Conditions of acceptance of advertising can be prevent it. you. found at www.luton.gov.uk by searching ‘Lutonline “We have called our campaign [Ctrl] “We also need people who think they terms and conditions’. The Council has the right to +[Rpt] +[Del] because we want people decline advertising approaches that do not support have been affected by cybercrime to its corporate values. to take control of the information come forward and let us know what has and images they put online to protect happened. By publicising how these themselves from scams, phishing and Det Supt Jon scams work, we can warn other people harassment; report any cybercrime Gilbert is and make sure no-one else falls victim they are aware of and delete the leading the to the same scam twice.” opportunities for criminals to use the fight against To find out more about how you can internet for crime. cybercrime in protect yourself and report cybercrime “Cybercrime is one of the fastest Bedfordshire visit www.bedfordshire.police.uk growing criminal activities across the of fraud, or a recognised online payment world, involving more than just the service such as PayPal. Avoid paying ●● If you want to report a cybercrime, online fraud and cyber bullying that is by money transfers or direct banking or if you suspect someone of LoveLove to tovisit often in the news. transactions which can be unsecure. illegal online activity, please call “We have set up a range of useful web Never send confidential personal or Bedfordshire Police in confidence pages to help people protect themselves financial information by email. on 101 or text information to 07786 and fight back against cybercrime. “Cybercrime is very under-reported, 200011. Alternatively you can visitparks! parks? “For example if you are shopping with victims often feeling embarrassed contact the independent crime- online, always use either your credit because they have been scammed online fighting charity Crimestoppers, card, which offers you protection in case or not knowing who to report the crime anonymously, on 0800 555111.

a number of partner organisations get involved in the programme. including the Council, Luton Clinical Flying Start is also looking to work Commissioning Group, Luton and with Luton schools and young people in Leader’s Dunstable Hospital, Cambridge preparing them as parents of the future. Community Service, Bedfordshire More good news came as six Luton Police, London Luton Airport Ltd schools earned the Primary Science and the University of Bedfordshire, Quality Mark in December. column all working together to integrate the Denbigh, Pirton Hill, The Meads and Cllr Hazel delivery of services. Downside primary schools, together Together, we have created a variety with Sundon Park Junior and Williams Simmons of programmes and pilot schemes, and Austin Infant schools, all undertook ThereThere areare in in excess excess of also training opportunities for all staff a year-long programme encouraging 19 million visits to parks and supporting families with young children. pupils to plan experiments and other of 19 million visits to Giving Luton’s These include the key initiative ‘Five investigations to find answers to their open space in Luton each year* children the best to Thrive’, developed and tested to train own questions. parks and open space start in life is practitioners to support parents to The award aims to raise the profile Keep fit, meet friends crucial if we want practice five activities with their baby. of the subject by utilising the natural in Luton each year to develop happy The vital activities – responding, curiosity of young children. Eight Luton or just chill out in your and successful cuddling, relaxing, playing and talking – schools have now achieved the mark, young people. So help parents develop strong attachments and a further six are working towards it Keeplocal fit, park meet today friends it’s great news with their babies and help young this year. that the Flying Start programme has children’s brains develop healthily. Not only is the scheme making a real *Figuresor just provided chill by Greenspace out –in calculated your from recently been launched for the borough. At the heart of Flying Start are difference to the quality of teaching GreenSTAT national dataset Flying Start is the name of Luton’s parents and the community, who are in Luton, it is also preparing children local park today primary prevention and early central to shaping and improving how to live in a world where science and Tell us what you think about intervention strategy, and delivers we deliver the services. technology will play an increasingly significant changes to how we support We will focus on harnessing and important role. your local park at mothers and families from during developing the skills and passion www.GreenSTAT.org.uk pregnancy to a child’s fourth birthday. of local people through training www.luton.gov.uk/parks The initiative is led by the Pre-school and volunteering, and provide the Learning Alliance, and has involved opportunities for local people to actively www.luton.gov.uk www.luton.gov.uk/parks Lutonline February 2015 3 News in Brief Trio are made Honorary Mayor boosts local charities Former Mayor of Luton Cllr Sheila Freemen of the Borough Roden recently donated an equal share of £3,000 to three local charities. Luton’s highest honour, the an old member to present members. The money was raised via a number Freedom of the Borough, was However much we differed in our way of events during her mayoral year formally bestowed on two former forward, we have and did have one which ended in May 2014, including main thing in common – we wanted the a quiz, hat fashion show and Chinese Council leaders and the manager success and happiness for Luton and its dinner. of Luton Town FC John Still at citizens.” The money has benefitted the an extraordinary meeting of the Cllr Michael Dolling nominated Mr Luton Foodbank, MS Therapy Centre authority on 15 January. Still, and said: “I have been a fan of (Bradbury House) and the Multiple Scrolls recognising their eminent Luton Town Football Club since I was 10 Sclerosis Society’s Luton, Dunstable services to the borough were presented years old, so I am very happy that John and district branch. to Lord McKenzie of Luton, Vivian Still has agreed to receive this honour on Cllr Roden said: “It was an honour Dunington MBE and John Still, followed behalf of everyone at the club. to be the Mayor of the town for a by the signing of the Roll of Honorary “Luton Town’s promotion to the year. I had an amazing experience, Freemen. football league after five painful years meeting so many people from different Leader of the Council Hazel Simmons has been incredible. This promotion communities. I would like to thank said of Lord McKenzie: “Bill was an From left: Lord McKenzie of Luton, John Still has brought countless cultural, social everyone who has supported me in excellent ward councillor and was and Vivian Dunington MBE and financial benefits to the town and raising vital funds for these very worthy instrumental along with Roy Davis in develop over that time and are pleased truly helped to build community spirit in causes.” taking forward the development of Luton that it is our home. I will try to continue Luton.” Airport that secured its future direction. to play my small part in helping it Mr Still said: “I am receiving it on “He has worked continuously for the prosper in the future.” behalf of the people I work with: the community in different ways throughout Cllr Michael Garrett, who nominated staff, the players, the supporters and his career and I know he continues to both former leaders for the award, said everyone involved. Everyone has played support many voluntary and community of Mr Dunington: “Viv has undertaken their part in a fantastic year for this organisations. 36 years in local government in Luton football club. I am very, very proud to “This is in recognition for a person and was the Conservative leader of the receive it, but I am mindful of the fact I who has dedicated his life to working for Council for 15 years. In that time he has am doing so on behalf of lots of people.” local people. He has been, and still is, an worked tirelessly for the people of Luton The first Honorary Freedom was excellent ambassador for our town and and has brought a significant amount granted in 1893 to Baron Battersea this is a well-deserved acknowledgement of trade to the town. This honour is well and Overstrand, and the last person to of his public service.” deserved.” receive the honour was Frank Stanley From left: Valerie Woods of the MS Lord McKenzie said: “I feel especially Mr Dunington said: “I came to Luton Lester OBE in 1988. Therapy Centre, Cllr Sheila Roden, privileged, and to be in such good 60 years ago with my wife and young Honorary Freemen have no legal Trevor Whittaker from the Multiple company as Viv and John. family and it was a good move. I love rights but may be invited to take part in Sclerosis Society, and Liz Stringer, “Di and I first came to Luton over 40 Luton and it has been very prosperous important ceremonial occasions in the Luton Foodbank years ago. We have seen it change and for me. Thank you for this honour from borough. Important notice of bank account change Luton Borough Council’s banking Fittball screened on national TV service is being moved from the Co- operative Bank to Lloyds Bank with effect from 1 April 2015. If you make payments to the Council by direct debit, then you need take no further action at this stage as your payments will be automatically diverted into our new bank account. However, if you pay by standing order, then you will need to instruct your bank to make your payments to Lloyds Bank. We are currently in the process of identifying all our standing order customers, and will shortly be writing to all of these with details of the Council’s new bank account, and to issue a revised mandate for customers to sign and return. This process must be completed by 1 April 2015. Cllr Mohammed Ashraf, Portfolio Holder for finance said: “The reason for the change is that the Co-operative As seen on TV: Mike Bushell promotes the new sport of fittball at Pirton Hill Bank is no longer providing banking Primary School facilities for local authorities. Lloyds Bank was selected via a competitive BBC Breakfast sport presenter Mike with its own unique goals and rules, it also process. Bushell visited Pirton Hill Primary School teaches children good teamworking skills “Customers are reminded it is their recently to film the new sport of fittball – while improving individual technical co- responsibility to ensure that sums and take part in a game with pupils. ordination as well as general agility and “We are always looking at new and owing to the Council are paid on the The game is a hybrid of football, balance. enjoyable ways to engage the children in due date, and that standing orders netball, basketball and American Phil Martin, PE lead teacher at Pirton physical activity and build on the amazing must be changed as directed.” football, developed by Luton Town Hill, said: “It was a privilege to be selected success the school has had over the last All invoicing and billing documents and Queens Park Rangers men Tony by Tony and the BBC to showcase few years. Due to the structure of this issued by the Council with effect from McCool and Kevin Gallen. this new sport, and as always the game, it is an ideal sport for boys and girls 1 April will include the new banking Simple to understand, easy for a behaviour and attitude of the pupils were and different age groups and abilities to details. whole-school class to take part in, and outstanding. play together.”

www.luton.gov.uk 4 Lutonline February 2015 ‘Hatred is a weakness’ – a reflection from Srebrenica Teaching the consequences of hatred in a multi-ethnic society: this is the singular most important lesson which must be learned from the 1995 Srebrenica genocide, according to a Council employee who recently returned from a four- day visit to Bosnia. Press and communications officer Adam Kearney was representing Luton as part of a delegation of 16 young leaders selected by the UK-based charity Remembering Srebrenica. The event, in which Bosnian Serb forces led by General Ratko Mladic systematically massacred 8,372 men and boys, remains the worst single atrocity on European soil since the Second World War. The charity was set up to honour the memory of the victims, and to use lessons learned to create a better world. As part of his trip, Adam made a Clockwise from above: Srebrenica memorial cemetery, images that must never be forgotten on display in Sarajevo, and a mother urges Adam Kearney pledge to raise awareness in Luton of the to share the lessons that must be learned around the world terrible events and their consequences, The 33-year-old said: “I’d read about and the International Commission of has proven to me how important this and to play a part in ensuring nothing it in detail before I left, and knew things Missing People – which continues to work is. It’s absolutely vital that we like it could ever happen in the UK. were bad, but only from being there trace human remains to this day. More all work together and do what we can He said he will remain shocked and can you see, feel and experience how than 1,000 bodies are still missing or to ensure we live in a cohesive and saddened by what he experienced, and unbelievably atrocious this evil act was. unidentified. harmonious society and that hatred is the vivid accounts of what happened in “More than 8,000 men and boys On a more intimate level the group never, ever tolerated.” 1995. were murdered in just a couple of days met a man who was one of a very few Luton may have tensions but without because of their religion. There was to survive the genocide after being positive community leaders things no other reason – the aim was ethnic captured and tortured, and also the would be worse, Adam suggested. cleansing. ‘Mothers of Srebrenica’, a group whose “I didn’t realise how vital they “Only a visit to the country can make sons, husbands and brothers were are until I went to Bosnia. We need you fully appreciate that these men and murdered. influential people who will stand up to boys are not statistics; they were the Adam now wants to keep his promise the groups that try to divide us. Green Space fathers, husbands, sons and loved ones to the mothers who pleaded with their “The horrors of the past should of those that were left behind. visitors to help them fight for justice by remind us of the consequences of hatred Solutions “What also got to me was where and sharing their story. and to ensure events like this do not when it happened. This despicable event “We were told that a third of Bosnians happen again. happened less than 20 years ago in our still deny the genocide even took place,” “The trip was very emotional and own back yard, just two hours away Adam said. “The message from the one I will never forget. I realised that from Luton.” mothers was simple – tell the world it humans can be very disappointing at The delegation’s guide was Resad did happen, it destroyed them and that times. But they can also be wonderful. Trbonja, a man who not only lived it must never happen again. This is why The one thing I learnt more than through the Bosnian war during the I’m sharing this story with residents. anything else is that hatred is a 1990s but had fought on the front line “Luton is a multi-ethnic town which weakness and nothing positive can and was able to share his own first-hand definitely has its challenges. I know come of it.” experiences with the group. some people are sceptical of some of ●● For more information about Visits were made to an exhibition in the ‘cohesion’ work the Council and its Remembering Srebrenica visit Sarajevo, a memorial site for the victims partners carry out. My trip to Bosnia www.srebrenica.org.uk We are part of a new trading arm of Luton Borough Council. Our skilled team is able to provide flexible and cost-effective solutions to customers in the following areas:

• Tree work • Garden clearance • Hedge cutting • Landscaping • Maintenance contracts

If you are in need of a Green Space Solution, please give us a call on 01582 546735

www.luton.gov.uk/parks www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 5 Decision days: Spotlight on school’s faiths have your say Luton residents have a further forward by community organisations opportunity to decide exactly how – and those with the most votes will be public money is spent to improve awarded funding in each ward. Suggestions include community their local neighbourhoods. festivals and fun days, new A series of local community ‘decision opportunities to access community days’ are taking place covering all 19 sports, physical, wellbeing and arts Luton wards. activities, skills, adult learning and The events have been organised as youth programmes plus children’s part of the Council’s ‘Your Say, Your activities. Way’ programme, which is all about Cllr Khtija Malik, Portfolio Holder ensuring residents can help shape the for community development, said: “The future of their local areas. projects put forward aim to make a real With over 130 projects supported difference to local communities and across the town last year, a wide range it’s important that as many people as of project proposals have again been put possible come along to have their say.”

Pupils released 100 balloons to spread their message A multi-faith day at Maidenhall Primary A particular focus highlighted how light in December saw parents and pupils is used as a symbol in festivals including Dates for your diary celebrate the school’s many different Diwali, Eid, Christmas and Hanukkah. cultures and faiths. One hundred red balloons were The ward events are as follows: Parents arrived wearing traditional released, with their tags featuring Challney: Saturday 31 January, Barnfield: Saturday 14 March, dress and ready to share their holy books, images created by children representing 10am-1pm, Chaul End Community Centre 10am-12.30pm, Bushmead Community artefacts and food specialities for children happiness and community. Centre to try. Pupils also learned about music, Assistant headteacher Fionna Byrne Leagrave: Saturday 31 January, art and geography, with each year group said: “The children worked hard all day, 2-5pm, Hockwell Ring Community Centre High Town: Saturday 14 March, also studying faiths including Christianity, undertaking a range of activities to 2-4pm, High Town Methodist Church Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Sikhism produce a fantastic presentation. It was Farley: Saturday 21 February, and Islam, and discovering their many also great to see many of our parents 10am-1pm, Farley Community Centre East Luton: (for Crawley, Round Green, similarities. contributing.” Stopsley and Wigmore wards), Tuesday 17 South: Saturday 21 February, March, 6-9pm, Ramridge Primary School. 1-4pm, Parktown Community and Children’s Centre Due to limited space, the Council is encouraging residents to pre-register for Northwell: Saturday 28 February, the events by emailing YourSayYourWay@ 10am-1pm, Futures House luton.gov.uk or calling 01582 548773. Take the easy way… Dallow: Sunday 1 March, To be eligible to vote, attendees must be 1-4pm, Foxdell Junior School present for all presentations. pay your council tax by direct debit North Luton: (for Bramingham, Icknield, Limbury and Sundon Park wards), ●● For more information visit Thursday 5 March, 6-9pm, Futures House www.luton.gov.uk/neighbourhood

Mental health crisis agreement A partnership agreement to improve outcomes for people experiencing mental health crisis has been signed by 22 partners from across Bedfordshire and Luton. Organisations from health, police, fire, local authorities, drug and alcohol support services and criminal justice committed to prevent mental health crises where possible, and to provide effective emergency response systems when they do occur. The mental health crisis care concordat was signed on behalf of Luton Borough Council by head of adult social For the Luton CCG the concordat was signed by You’ll spread the cost over the year Sign up on chief officer Carol Hill, left care Maud O’Leary at a special event in and enjoy peace of mind by never www.luton.gov.uk/ December at the Rufus Centre, Flitwick. show a strong and unified commitment counciltaxdd Cllr Mahmood Hussain, the Council’s to working closely together to improve being late to pay. Portfolio Holder for adult social care, outcomes for anyone experiencing or call 0300 790 030 said: “We are working with a range of mental health crisis.” partners across Bedfordshire to ensure Dr Judy Baxter, a GP and clinical a system is in place whereby anyone director for mental health at the who is in a crisis due to a mental health Bedfordshire Clinical Commissioning condition is kept safe and found the Group, added: “This concordat gives appropriate support from whichever crisis care in mental health the priority www.luton.gov.uk service they turn to first. it deserves and will ensure we can “By signing this concordat we want to improve all our services.”

www.luton.gov.uk 6 Lutonline February 2015

Pedestrian signage Luton’s lights a-twinkling receives an upgrade

Work has completed to upgrade pedestrian signage in Luton town centre, Hightown and Bury Park. The new ‘wayfinding’ system features both finger-post signs and simple maps with clear graphics which also identify bus and strategic cycle routes, and replaces a cast iron post signage scheme which dates from 1992. The new network includes 24 directional finger-posts, nine wall- mounted signs, ten map points and a primary map at the Luton Station Interchange. The aim is to help visitors find their way more easily, encourage more people A free ice skating rink was among the to walk, cycle and take buses to and highlights as thousands of people again from central Luton, and bolster the town enjoyed the annual Lighting Up Luton centre economy. event. Cllr Dave Taylor, Portfolio Holder Mayor of Luton Cllr Mohammed Farooq for environment, said: “The existing was joined on the Town Hall balcony by signage was contemporary in its day but competition winner Harley Kelly, aged unfortunately had become somewhat seven, to officially light up the town for dated, being insufficiently clear, Christmas, while Hollyoaks fans were inflexible and lacking in information The new signage supports our town centre, says delighted to meet Aaron Fontaine, who Cllr Dave Taylor about destinations compared to more plays Sonny in the TV series. modern schemes. “It is by far the most cost-effective Winners of the choir competition, “This approach to signing is an intervention which local authorities can sponsored by The Mall, were Hillborough by Luton Churches Together and the effective way of helping pedestrians make to support their town centres.” Junior School and Luton Choral Society. Salvation Army. find their way around towns. The new Funding to deliver the scheme was The lantern parade was led by members Cllr Sian Timoney, Portfolio Holder for signs in Luton will be much more user- successfully secured by the Council and users of Park Town Community regeneration, said: “It was great to see so friendly, and will also benefit the wider through the Government’s Local Centre, and the open air carol service many people enjoying the fun.” community. Sustainable Transport Fund.

Free early learning

Good for your child Children learn through play. Having a free early learning and childcare place in an exciting, enjoyable and secure environment could give your two year old the best possible start in life.

Good for you Gives you the opportunity to work, undertake training, access further education or gain advice and support through your local children’s centre.

Call the Family Information Service on 01582 54 88 88 or email Learn through play [email protected] for more details.

Do you live Are you on You could be 1 in Luton 2 a low income 3 entitled to 15 and have a or receiving hours of free two year old benefits or childcare per child? credits? week.

www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 7 Cemetery’s ancient Cutting-edge technology an option to the scalpel history is revealed Revolutionary technology allowing to be transported to a £1.5m facility at a pathologist to carry out a full post the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. mortem examination using a CT scan Extra costs of around £600 associated rather than a scalpel is now available for with NIPM will be passed on to the residents in Luton and Bedfordshire. family through the funeral director The new system uses software to nominated by the Coroner’s office. create a 3D computer model for digital Cllr Aslam Khan, Portfolio Holder for examination on screen, and will allow public health, said: “We are pleased to autopsy results to be made available to be among the first local authorities in families almost immediately. the country to be able to offer, via the The Council’s registrar’s service has Coroner, the choice of new non-invasive been working closely with the Coroner post mortem service. for Bedfordshire to make Luton one of “It is upsetting to lose a loved one the first local authorities in the country and I’m sure this new service, which to introduce this new non-invasive post provides very speedy post mortem mortem (NIPM) for local residents. examination results for grieving If the Coroner assesses the case as relatives of the deceased, will be suitable for the procedure, relatives of comforting. This is a pilot project and the deceased can request a NIPM. The we will be reviewing the situation in Coroner will then arrange for the body April.” Another honour for Active Luton Active Luton has received a national a range of criteria including participation honour for the way it operates Luton’s numbers, the quality of its ‘learn to swim’ swimming facilities. programmes and its formal qualifications, The trust received the silver award teacher education and aquatic in the ‘Facility operator of the year’ apprenticeships. category at the inaugural Amateur Cllr Aslam Khan, Portfolio Holder for Swimming Association (ASA) Awards. sports and arts, said: “Swimming is a Active Luton was assessed on the fantastic activity that is not only fun but also Delicate work: unearthing pottery during the dig way it operates the town’s three major keeps you fit and healthy. Congratulations An archaeological dig at Luton’s swimming facilities at Inspire: Luton to Active Luton for this award which Vale Cemetery in Butterfield Lane Sports Village, Lewsey Sports Park and recognises their ongoing commitment to has uncovered human remains Lea Manor Recreation Centre. supporting Luton residents to live healthier The trust impressed the judges on and more active lives.” and other material dating back to the early Iron Age through to post medieval periods, revealing the area has been used for settlement It’s easy to switch to e-billing – just visit www.luton.gov.uk/counciltaxservices and cremations since ancient times. A draft report received from Oxford Archaeology East, commissioned by the Council to carry out the work, revealed “We already know our town has been that during excavation work carried an important settlement for thousands out at the end of 2013 in the area of a of years, but exciting discoveries like proposed extension to the cemetery, this help us to understand and learn archaeologists uncovered signs of at more about how ancient people lived and least three roundhouses along with died.” enclosures, boundary ditches and Materials uncovered in the survey are various pits. being carefully cleaned and analysed, The range of exciting material finds which is a long and painstaking process. included seven urned early Roman Cllr Taylor added: “Significant cremations, three brooches and a bath archaeological finds are expected flask, plus a significant amount of to be presented to Luton Museum in Roman and some Medieval pottery. The due course. But we are hoping it will earliest evidence for occupation of the eventually be possible reinter the Roman area dates back to the Neolithic period burial urns near to the spot they were and Bronze Age. discovered, with appropriate respect and Cllr Dave Taylor, Portfolio Holder a commemorative information plaque.” for the environment, said: “It is The cemetery’s extension is expected Registering for e-billing means no more bills in the post extraordinary to think the Vale Cemetery to open in the summer, with new paths has been a special place for both the and roads helping to make it easier to living and the dead for so very long. move around the site. • It’s quick, safe and secure Free prize draw • Register from the comfort of Town supports Alcohol Concern If you are on ebilling, you will your own home be automatically included in our A new six-month Street Drinker Project potential solutions and best practice was launched by the Luton Drug and from elsewhere. monthly prize draw. Alcohol Partnership (LDAP) during Drinking regularly can lead to a • See all your bills online £100 will be given away Alcohol Concern Awareness Week range of health issues. Guidelines each month to one lucky winner recently. suggest men should not drink more from June 2014 to The programme aims to engage with than three to four units of alcohol a day, • No lost bills ever again, and you March 2015. those involved in street drinking, to which is around a pint and a half of can check your payment history ensure everyone understands the health beer, and women should not drink more risks involved, and has the information than two to three units a day, which is in a few quick clicks! and chance to seek help from local around a 175ml glass of wine. services Drinking two double gin and tonics It will also gather information and is also around the same calorie intake www.luton.gov.uk/counciltaxservices data to provide a clear picture of local as eating a hamburger, so it is easy for street drinking activity, and examine drinkers to pile on the pounds too.

www.luton.gov.uk 8 Lutonline February 2015

2015

In Luton, food waste accounts for more than 30 per Making cent of waste in the black rubbish bin. food Here are some easy steps to help you reduce food wastehistory waste this year, and save up to £60 a month:

1. Plan ahead 2. Store correctly s Shopping lists and meal planners s Fruit lasts much longer when kept in may sound boring but can help the fridge (except bananas). you keep focused when you shop, s so you only buy the items you Did you know you can freeze grapes, need and will use. herbs and even cheese?

3. Cook what you need 4. Feed your garden s Watching portion sizes can help your pocket and your waistline! s Home-composting is not only for s Did you know one cup of uncooked rice is garden waste, you can also use enough for four people? vegetables and their peelings, and fruit.

For great recipe ideas and more hints and tips to further reduce food waste, Get involved, and let’s visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com make food waste history! For advice on reducing your general waste, visit www.luton.gov.uk/recycling

Try this delicious recipe, ideal for using up leftover fruit

Banana and Peanut Ingredients Variations Milkshake s Serves two Try adding a few chopped cubes of fresh pineapple or by Louise Lewis s Six pieces of frozen banana over-ripe pear to the above recipe. Milkshakes and smoothies s Two tablespoons crunchy peanut Vary fruits as much as you like, and try berries such as give you a good start to butter blueberries, raspberries and strawberries instead of the the day and can also satisfy s 125ml chilled milk peanut butter. children’s hunger pangs s Honey For more of a smoothie texture, use apple or orange juice when they come in from instead of milk. school. Made regularly, the Instructions Experiment with other milks such as almond milk, rice combination of fruit and 1. Put the bananas into a blender. milk, goats’ milk or soya milk. milk will ensure your young 2. Add the peanut butter and milk ones get plenty of calcium and blend until smooth. Add honey and essential minerals and to taste. vitamins. 3. Blend again for a further five to ten seconds.

www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 9 Signing up to oust loan sharks Think before Trevor Holden, the Council’s Chief Paperwork is rarely offered, so you ink advice Executive, was the first to put his victims are often in the dark about With body art becoming ever more signature to a pioneering charter how much they are actually paying. popular, particularly among young Exorbitant amounts of interest can be sending a message to loan sharks people, the Council is working in added at random, with the highest rate partnership with other local authorities that they are not tolerated in Luton. seen equivalent to 131,000 per cent APR. across Bedfordshire on a campaign to The campaign to raise awareness of In some cases loan sharks have raise awareness about associated the dangers of loan sharks was launched been known to take items as security, health risks. by the England Illegal Money Lending including passports, driving licences People have body piercings, tattoos Team (ILMT) in partnership with the or even bank or post office cards with and implants for all sorts of cultural and Council’s trading standards service, the PINs to withdraw directly from religious reasons. But undergoing this Money Matters Credit Union, Luton borrowers’ accounts. sort of work on your body can put you CAB and Luton Age Concern. Cllr Naseem Ayub, Portfolio Holder at risk of blood-borne viruses passed on It aims to ensure local organisations for community safety, said: “Loan by contaminated equipment, and leading work together to highlight the dangers sharks bring misery and desperation to serious health problems, unless of borrowing from a loan shark, and to both their victims and the local it is carried out by an experienced hammers home the message that no- community. We are working with local practitioner using sterile equipment in one is alone if they have already fallen partner organisations to encourage hygienic and licensed premises. into the clutches of these unscrupulous people to turn away from loan sharks money lenders. and call 0300 555 2222 to report the Cllr Aslam Khan, Portfolio Holder Help is available – and the ILMT has crime if they have been a victim.” for public health, said: “Piercings and a 100 per cent conviction rate at court Frontline staff from local tattoos leave a permanent mark, it’s when prosecuting loan sharks. organisations have also been invited not quite the same as changing your Most importantly, the campaign to attend free training, helping them to hair colour or your clothes. If you visit is about helping people worried and support and signpost anyone they meet a practitioner working in unregulated sometimes terrified they have already in their everyday work who has been a premises, you are placing your health borrowed from a loan shark to get help victim of illegal money lending. at risk and possibly your life. So please now by calling the confidential 24/7 An estimated 310,000 households ‘think before you ink’.” hotline on 0300 555 2222. across the country are in debt to a loan The information campaign is Loan sharks operate illegally shark, and the England Illegal Money specifically targeted at young people, and without correct permissions from the Chief executive Trevor Holden signing the Lending Team has prosecuted more the Council is writing to local schools Financial Conduct Authority. These charter than 310 illegal lenders. urging them to use materials such as criminals usually appear friendly at posters and leaflets as part of pupils’ first, but quickly trap borrowers into health education lessons in January. spiralling debt. As the debts cannot Report a loan shark: ●● For more information about piercings, legally be enforced, many lenders ● Call the 24/7 confidential hotline on 0300 555 2222 tattoos, implants and registered resort to the most extreme and callous ● Text ‘loan shark and your message’ to 60003 practitioners, please contact the methods to get their repayment, ● Email [email protected] Council on 01582 510330, email including threats, violence and ● Send us a private message on www.facebook.com/stoploansharksproject [email protected] or intimidation. see www.nhs.uk and search ‘piercings’. Information about your street lights

In order to extend the operational life of its street lights, and also significantly reduce electricity costs, Luton Council is installing a new centrally managed system capable of monitoring and controlling most individual lamps remotely. This work to 13,500 of the 18,500 street lights across Luton is taking place over a three-year period under the Council’s routine maintenance programme. Work on this scheme is continuing in the Stopsley and Challney areas.

While the work is in progress, residents may notice that some street lights remain on during the daytime as well as at night, for a period of up to one week. This is a default setting for safety reasons while the new system ‘beds in’, and quite normal. There is no need to let us know.

If a street light is still on during the day after more than one week, however, then the Council will need to carry out an appropriate repair. We expect to identify most of these instances even before you do, but if you are able to let us know that would help too. We would ask that you please make a note of the street light number and its location, and email us at [email protected].

If any street light is not working at night, we should also notice this straight away. Again though, if you can help, please email the above address with the street light’s details. Thank you for your patience while these works are carried out.

www.luton.gov.uk

www.luton.gov.uk 10 Lutonline February 2015

www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 11 Al Hikmah launches road safety scheme The Council’s new Young Road demands they must meet, and this Safety Officer (YRSO) scheme new programme is seen as a great for high schools was officially opportunity to continue talking with pupils beyond their primary years launched by pupils and staff at the about how they can stay safe. Al Hikmah Secondary School in The event “We are delighted that Al Hikmah Bury Park recently. was attended has embraced the opportunity to be the The project was devised after by Cllr pilot school for the town, and now we Mohammed Sowab Ali, one of the Dave Taylor are hoping this example will encourage trustees at the privately-funded school in and Police other high schools across the borough Dunstable Road, contacted the Council and Crime to participate in the initiative too.” Commissioner Dr Sayeid said: “Awareness of road to request road safety education for its Olly Martins 250 pupils aged from nine to 19 years. safety at an early age has been proven The project will see year 11 pupils with Brake Road Safety Week and the school’s YRSO coordinator. to have a long-lasting impact on young take the lead in engaging the whole was attended by Cllr Dave Taylor, “This was a great opportunity for the people’s attitudes and behaviours as school to improve children and young the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Council and Al Hikmah to work together responsible road users when they are people’s awareness of road safety environment, and Bedfordshire Police on a new initiative,” said Cllr Taylor. adults. These types of projects should be issues, by focusing on topics including and Crime Commissioner Olly Martins, “Beyond attending assemblies, it has encouraged at all levels of educational pedestrian behaviours, the wearing of welcomed by Al Hikmah headteacher long proved challenging to fully engage establishments, and we hope others seatbelts and pre-driver education. Mr Ashfaque Chowdhury and Dr M with high schools about road safety will follow and join us in this important The launch event coincided Sayeid-Al-Jamee, head of science and matters due to the varied curriculum cause for our future generation.” Go online for Council’s latest housing report The 2014 annual report to Luton Borough representatives, it includes surveys and properties, an increase in the number of Cllr Tom Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Council’s housing tenants has been performance information across a range homes installed with insulation, and an housing, said: “The annual report helps published. of housing services. increase in the amount of rent arrears us understand where we are doing well The publication outlines how the Some notable improvements since the collected from former council tenants. and identifies areas for improvement. authority performed on a range of key last report include an increase in the Areas where performance was not as We are committed to improving services issues over the 12-month period leading number of renewable energy systems good included the number of annual gas to tenants each year and the annual up to April 2014, including repairs, installed, a reduction in the number services completed within 12 months, report ensures we are being transparent tenant involvement, allocating homes, of days taken to rent an empty council and a reduction in the number of repairs and accountable to them and all Luton dealing with antisocial behaviour, filling property, and an increase in the number completed right first time. taxpayers.” empty properties and looking after of repairs completed on time. The report also notes the recently- vulnerable tenants. Other successes include a reduction introduced ‘Homecall’ service whereby ●● To view the report online go to Developed in consultation with tenant in average rent loss from empty tenants can order repairs online. www.luton.gov.uk/housing

In May 2015, voters in Luton “This is a chance to learn more about Open what it is like to be a local councillor, and Borough will be able to to give prospective candidates a better understanding of how the Council works, evening for elect their representatives the role and expected conduct. “I would encourage anyone who is for the following four years. prepared to take on the challenge and prospective who is thinking about standing as a You could be just the person to make a difference candidate in the Luton local elections to to your local community by becoming a councillor. attend this informative briefing session.” councillors If you are interested in becoming a local councillor, Trevor Holden, Chief Executive, please come along to an open evening on Luton Borough Council Wednesday 18 February 2015 from 6-8pm at Luton Town Hall, George Street, Luton LU1 2BQ. The event is open to all. Our prospective councillor evening is being hosted by the Council’s Chief Executive Trevor Holden, and organised by the democracy team who will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. For more information please go to the Local Government Association website link at www.beacouncillor.org.uk or call the Council’s democracy team on 01582 546669

www.luton.gov.uk

www.luton.gov.uk 12 Lutonline February 2015 Get on course!

Open Day 11th March 2015

Join us at Barnfield to find out more about our full-time & part-time courses. Visit us at our New Bedford Road and Enterprise Way Campuses. Apprenticeships are also available.

www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 13

Be inspired like our Pupils take over the top jobs super seven in 2015 Local charity Active Luton has and Active Luton was affordable and I launched a new year campaign was able to choose different ways to pay. which aims to inspire residents to “One thing that I initially worried about was people watching my workouts become fit and healthy in 2015. at the gym because I knew I was doing The #BeInspired campaign uses the some of the movements incorrectly. remarkable stories of seven Lutonians However, being a family-oriented centre, who have overcome challenging odds people of all fitness levels were offering and transformed their lives as a result of their knowledge and I turned that using Active Luton’s facilities. into an opportunity to get to know the Southfield The trust is hoping that their regulars. Two years on, I’m still working Primary example will encourage others to make pupils out with them. were in important changes to their lives. “Overall I have seen an increase in charge Geraldine Tate, 34, who uses the my fitness and I am able to feel more of their facilities at Inspire: Luton Sports active during work. It’s also great when school for Village, is one resident whose dramatic people notice an improvement in your a day weight loss is being highlighted. health.” The shoe was on the other foot when “It was lovely to see how well the children She said: “What inspired me to start Active Luton is a not-for-profit trust pupils from Southfield Primary experienced participated in their new roles, talking with using the centre was after I snapped my operating a variety of sports and leisure school life from the other side as part of confidence and enthusiasm about their achilles. After my operation and physio facilities in Luton and has a number national ‘Takeover Week’. involvement. I put on a lot of extra weight when I was of programmes to cater for everyone, Over 30 different roles were assumed “They gained new skills and enjoyed already big to start with. I started with whatever their personal circumstances. by the children, resulting in them finding out more about how our school aqua aerobics as I was too big to support It currently operates six leisure and becoming teachers, assistants, learning operates and how decisions are made. It my own body weight! After that I moved activity centres including Inspire: Luton mentors, family workers and even was good to see the school values being on to swimming. Sports Village, Lewsey Sports Park and headteacher. put into practice.” “Now I am running marathons and Lea Manor Recreation Centre. Pupils had to formally apply for As it was also anti-bullying week, the taking part in fitness days. The sense Chief executive Helen Barnett said: positions, with shortlisting and interviews school council sold awareness-raising of pride and achievement of my fitness “We have a friendly and experienced conducted by the school council. bands and organised a project to promote level now is amazing.” team of professionals who can come Year six pupil Emma O’Brien said: “I friendship and teamwork. Another inspiration, 22 year-old up with a fitness plan to suit you and learned that teachers put hard work and They asked each class to work together Amish Dahyabhai, was going through a your lifestyle. Come along and see for effort into every lesson even though you to design and make outfits modelled on rough stage in his life before joining Lea yourself. There has never been a better might not think they do. They try and make a catwalk during a dedicated assembly Manor Recreation Centre. time to join.” it fun.” also featuring photographs, videos and He said: “I looked at the offers ●● For more details visit www.activeluton. Real headteacher Marilyn Redfern said: interviews with pupils. different gyms were giving for students, co.uk or call 01582 400272. Pass it on: Give your unwanted items a new home There is always somebody out there who could benefit from your unwanted clothes and other textiles. Instead of just throwing them away, you could donate your items to local charities and groups in your area. Some will even collect for free.

For information and to find out more call 01582 510333 or visit www.luton.gov.uk/recycling

www.luton.gov.uk/recycling

www.luton.gov.uk 14 Lutonline February 2015

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www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 15 Fancy a walk Rothesay retains green flag in the park? Blow away those winter cobwebs The route continued up gentle slopes by joining a group of friendly to look at the new hedgerows planted people for a walk in the park. this summer before returning to the pavilion for hot soup and a chat. There is something for everyone, Forthcoming events include: whatever your age or level of fitness, in ● organised walks in Wardown, Lewsey, a series of organised walks taking place Wigmore Valley and Stockwood parks over the next few months across four of (other venues available on request) Luton’s award-winning parks. ● buggy-pushing walks for mums and/ Fourteen residents aged 46-91 years or dads with prams from Runnymede and Hanover Court ● club walks recently joined an historic walk through ● Nordic walking (£1 a session). Wardown Park. Pupils perfecting their gardening skills as part of the Eco School Green Flag Award Cllr Khan said: “We have received The lead walker highlighted historic some really positive feedback about this Rothesay Nursery School recently term, showing that it is moving in the right features including the donkey wheel initiative from those taking part, and celebrated retaining its Eco Schools direction. house, summer house, daisy chain walk, there is even a ten-walk challenge for Green Flag award. Inspectors found that Rothesay’s boathouse, fountain and the bandstand, keen enthusiasts. The walks are free The scheme recognises schools that senior leaders and governors were taking and also provided background and anyone can come along.” have shown a commitment to becoming effective action to tackle the areas that information about lake dredging, the The walks are organised by the environmentally friendly and sustainable, require improving, and that by the end of proposed new Rotary bandstand and old Council’s parks service as part of an and which aim to embed these principles in the summer term children’s attainment buildings still being used today as offices. initiative with the public health team, the future habits of young people at home. in communication, language, literacy The group walked 1¼ miles in around working closely with Live Well Luton, The nursery, which first achieved the and numeracy was significantly higher an hour, enjoying the benefits of being Active Luton and 321 Run England to award in 2012, had to produce a plan compared to the previous year. outside, taking exercise and chatting encourage local people to improve their covering energy use, litter, waste, the Ofsted further acknowledged the focus to like-minded people. The walk was general wellbeing. school grounds and biodiversity. on literacy and opportunities to develop followed by a trip around the museum Cycling training and ‘boot camp’ It created a new bottle greenhouse and early reading and writing skills. and afternoon tea in the Luton Town fitness sessions are also available at vegetable plot for the children to grow, Headteacher Janet Brownjohn said: and Indians Cricket Club. low rates, with prices available on harvest and cook their own produce. “We are determined to take the necessary Council leader Cllr Hazel Simmons application. Pupils also made bird feeders and took actions to continue this success, however and Portfolio Holder for health Cllr Aslam part in the nationwide ‘Big Bumblebee we are not complacent and appreciate Khan recently joined another organised Discovery’ to learn about pollination. there is still much more work to be done. walk across the flat terrain of Lewsey ●● To find out more simply call 01582 The school also received a positive It’s great to see the hard efforts of both Park, taking in the brook and a brief 546710 or 07710 365874, or go to monitoring inspection report by Ofsted last pupils and staff being acknowledged.” history of the buildings once on the site. www.luton.gov.uk/parkwalks Join in the fun in one of Luton’s fabulous parks Choose from: s Nordic walking s Social walks s Boot camp exercise s Cycling Venues: s Popes Meadow s Wardown Park s Lothair Recreation Ground s Stockwood Park s Lewsey Park Starting January 2015 For more details, dates and to book a place, please call the parks team on 01582 546710 or 07710 365874 Join us for fitness

www.luton.gov.uk 16 Lutonline February 2015

Want to give something back to your local community and make a real difference? Luton Borough Council’s Volunteer Scheme

We are looking for enthusiastic and committed volunteers to help support our community services There are a variety roles and ways in which volunteers can contribute, such as: Recruitment Dates •Promoting health and wellbeing to residents •Encouraging and promoting independence and Volunteer Welcome Workshop social inclusion amongst older and vulnerable Thursday 5 March, 6-8pm people High Town Methodist Church – High Town Road •Helping children and young people to learn, develop and have fun Volunteer informal interviews •Being part of fantastic community events Tuesday 10 March, all day (15 minute slots) …and much, much more! Tokko - Gordon Street

Want to know more? Please email us Volunteer training on [email protected] Friday 13 March, 9.15am-1pm or call us on 01582 548772 Luton Adult Learning – Dunstable Road

www.luton.gov.uk/volunteering

www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 17 Schwer there’s a will! Boxer supports new Carols in Whitehall cancer health scheme Former boxing champion Billy Schwer joined staff from Macmillan as they spent a recent away day playing walking football against a group of residents on an Active Luton exercise programme for people affected by cancer. The ‘Move More’ programme, which is run in partnership by Active Luton, The programme aims to improve the physical Luton & Dunstable University Hospital and mental wellbeing of cancer patients and Macmillan Cancer Support, is aimed at improving the physical and lead at Macmillan, said: “Enabling mental wellbeing of those suffering or people to move more in an activity that recovering from the disease. they enjoy and at a level that’s right for Walking football is a simple but them is essential to Macmillan Cancer ingenious slow-paced adaptation of the Support’s strategy to helping people traditional game that does not allow live as well as possible for as long as running or jogging, and is one of the possible.” As some pupils had not visited London before, the choir toured Parliament and Trafalgar many activities that cancer patients can Helen Barnett, Active Luton chief Squares, Buckingham Palace, Pall Mall, and had their photo taken outside Downing Street participate in. executive, added: “The feedback on this programme has been overwhelmingly Pirton Hill Primary School’s choir and A charity collection was held for Crisis Schwer is the programme’s their music teacher Mark Newport were and Shelter, known for their work with the ambassador, and said he felt proud to positive and is making such a difference to people’s lives. in fine voice when they led the annual homeless at this time of year. be able to take part in the match and Department of Health (DoH) carol concert After rousing applause, the choir enjoyed support a fantastic programme. “Going through cancer must be a very terrifying experience but we know at Richmond House, Whitehall, shortly lunch in the DoH boardroom and then gave “I believe that a combination of before Christmas. an impromptu personal performance for physical, mental and nutritional health exercise is vitally important to the health and wellbeing of patients and The event was hosted by the DoH’s Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt MP. will aid prevention and recovery of any Christian Network Group and organised Headteacher Debbie Thompson said: disease,” he said. can help them with their recovery. We offer a range of activities including gym, by Dr Louise Newport. “This was an amazing opportunity for the “This programme gives the tools to A range of traditional and modern carols children who were once again fantastic help people fight against cancer. You swimming, exercise classes and golf as part of the programme.” were heartily sung by the 25-strong choir ambassadors for Pirton Hill Primary only have to look at the participants to of seven to 11-year-olds, particularly School, and we are very grateful to the ● see the benefits that they are getting ● For more information contact Active during The 12 Days Of Christmas, Department for Health for providing this from the scheme.” Luton on 01582 400272 or visit complete with actions. wonderful experience.” Jo Foster, physical activity programme www.activeluton.co.uk Community Decision Days Want to find out about community projects and see improvements in your neighbourhood? Would YOU like to decide which community projects should be funded in your area? Make sure you come to your local community decision day and make your vote count! For information, dates and locations visit www.luton.gov.uk/neighbourhood or call 01582 54 87 73 Examples of projects which residents voted for at last year’s decision days:

Residents of a sheltered scheme Youth club volunteers learning A local Playschemes participating in the ‘Mind, Body programme creative craft & Soil’ project

www.luton.gov.uk/neighbourhood

www.luton.gov.uk 18 Lutonline February 2015

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We have a wide  [email protected] The Town Hall is also licensed for marriages and civil range of equipment from marquees to suit your budget to  www.honeymoonweddings.co.uk partnerships; this sophisticated venue offer a choice of flooring, lighting, catering, staff, luxury toilet hire, starlight  www.facebook.com/Honeymoonweddings ceremonies for wedding parties of up to 100 guests. With ceiling, mobile bars and furniture. Our helpful team can We specialise in cruises and tailor- made holidays to suit its marble staircase, which is hugely popular for wedding help you plan your day from beginning to end, adding all all your needs. Whether you are planning a romantic city group photographs, and its spacious marriage area, it is the special extra details to make your day complete. trip or wish to travel to the other side of the world for becoming a favourite venue for local residents. The Town your honeymoon, we can make sure that everything is Hall is also available for other ceremonies. covered including flights, hotels, car hire and parking so If you are planning your wedding, please see a Dresses you can concentrate on starting your married life with a selection of local suppliers below who would be Delphine Alexander stress-free honeymoon. We do packages with all major pleased to help you with your special day.  1 The Gallery, The Mall tour operators. Luton LU1 2TW For more information, please visit the Council’s  01582 400664 Venues website www.luton.gov.uk or call 03007 900341.  [email protected] Putteridge Bury   www.delphinealexander.co.uk Hitchin Road, Luton LU2 8LE  01582 489069/065 Spas, fitness and hen days Delphine Alexander is a  [email protected] Bannatyne 241 Spa Day contemporary wedding shop  www.putteridgebury.co.uk  1 Regent Street, Luton LU1 5FA located in the heart of Luton.  0844 248 3770 Delphine and her team have a wealth of experience from We are situated in picturesque parkland on the Herts/Beds  [email protected] more than 25 years helping thousands of brides choose border, the perfect venue for your wedding and catering for up  www.bannatyne.co.uk/healthandfitness/luton their perfect dress. With a stunning collection of dresses to 120 guests. See our new all-inclusive packages with £500 Treat yourself & a loved one or friend from sizes 6-28 for you to try, don’t hesitate to book an discount for new dates available in August and September. For to a pamper day with the choice of a appointment if you are looking for that perfect dress. more information contact the conference team. Bannatyne Energising Facial or Swedish Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage each then both receive a Scalp Massage. Photography Upgrades Available. T&C'S Apply. Sarah Slimani Photography  07415 467987  Photo booths www.sarahslimani.com Dental care Pro Photo Booths Sarah is a professional photographer Luton Dental Health Care  David: 07590 376160 specialising in weddings, engagements  57 Guildford Street, Luton LU1 2NL  Tom: 07983 389387 and portraits. She has a profound passion  01582 416029  [email protected] for photography and loves capturing  [email protected]  www.prophotobooths.co.uk distinctive moments and being creative,  www.lutondentalcentre.co.uk Hiring a photo booth will helping the photographic memories of ensure that you and your your special day stay with you forever. She On your special day you will hopefully be smiling and we guests are entertained for takes a lot of pride in her work and regards can help make sure your teeth look fantastic. We offer hours and will remember your the customer service offered as important as the images a wide range of treatments to help achieve the perfect big day for the happy and joyous occasion it was. We have themselves. Creating a package that suits your day and smile, including crown, bridge and veneers to straighten, different packages to suit all budgets and this will include budget, Sarah is happy to help in every way. lighten, reshape and repair teeth. Tooth whitening is a guestbook, unlimited double prints, fun prop box, disc of simple procedure and the results can be amazing, making the photos mailed direct to you, Facebook upload and a sure your wedding photographs look fantastic and the booth attendant. This is a great way to remember all the guests are wowed by your smile. It is available as both guests who enjoyed your special day. an in-house procedure and a home kit. We can also offer tooth coloured fillings, these are ideal to replace your old, metal fillings with a natural, white filling matching the shade of your teeth.

www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 19 Women revel in Come to our jobs fair – and some ‘me time’ More than 70 local women descended on Lea Manor Recreation Centre you could change your life! recently for a free workout party. The event was organised to Want a job? Fancy changing your hand for those planning to set up their celebrate the first year anniversary job? Then come along to Luton’s own business. of ‘Me Time’, an Active Luton project Employment, Training and Skills The LETS fair is also a great chance which encourages women and girls for businesses to network and meet local to increase their involvement in sport (LETS) Fair on Wednesday 25 talent. and physical activity, whether for fun, February at Venue Central, 15-17 Cllr Sian Timoney, Portfolio Holder social, recreational or competitive Chapel Street, Luton, from 10am for regeneration, said: “We want to help purposes. until 3.30pm. our workforce gain new skills, and help The project has resulted in Supported by the Council, JobCentre local employers address any recruitment more than 1,000 women signing Plus, Community Interest Luton and issues and skills gaps. up for dedicated sports and fitness other local organisations, the fair offers “Most jobseekers could use a little programmes taking place across the local residents the chance to expand help to get back into employment. town during daytimes, in the evenings their job and career options, and network Anyone attending the fair is sending out and at weekends. with hundreds of like-minded people. a clear message to employers that they Highlights included a 69-year-old In attendance will be local employers are keen and eager to work.” first-timer who took part in Latin The last LETS fair in September attracted ●● Entry is free and everyone is welcome. with job opportunities, apprenticeship more than 1,000 delegates fusion, ‘boxercise’ and spin classes, a and training providers, representatives For more information call Mostaque retired woman who enjoyed the free from colleges and universities, careers one roof, a wide range of employers will Koyes on 07931 973967 or Attia Nazir swimming session so much that she advisers and organisations committed to be on hand to review resumes, introduce on 07718 270686, email mostaque@ joined the programme, and a 63-year- helping job seekers. company culture and discuss job barthamgroup.com or attia.nazir@ old who loved learning how to skip. possibilities. There will also be help on luton.gov.uk or visit www.letsfair.co.uk Those who should find the fair Helen Barnett, chief executive particularly helpful include the of Active Luton, said: “There are a unemployed, those claiming jobseeker’s Delegates’ stories number of reasons why female physical allowance and/or employment activity participation levels are lower ● Mohammed* was retired but wanted to earn some money so attended the LETS Fair support allowance, young people in some parts of the community. The last year. He signed up to the Employment Support for Over 50s programme which not in employment, education or simple aim of Me Time is to overcome helped him identify his key skills and review his CV and career options. After nine training (NEETs), those looking these barriers so that women have the weeks he was offered a job. He said: “While my new job did not directly come from for apprenticeship opportunities, opportunity to get fit and healthy in an my attendance at the work club, it did add to my confidence and willingness to apply experienced working adults wishing environment they feel comfortable in.” for and accept job opportunities.” to change their job, life-long learners, ● lone parents, fresh graduates and 16+ Louise* secured a job at Asda, and Henry* a position with Sainsbury’s, after also ●● For more information about Me Time students. attending last year’s fair and joining the same programme. contact Active Luton on 01582 400272 With around 60 stand-holders under * names have been changed or visit www.activeluton.co.uk

YOUR VOTE MATTERS MAKE SURE YOU’RE IN

You need to make sure that you’re on the THE WAY WE ALL REGISTER updated register, or you might not be able TO VOTE IS CHANGING to vote in future. For more information please go to www.gov.uk/yourvotematters

Electoral Services Luton Borough Council, Town Hall, George Street, Luton, Bedfordshire LU1 2BQ Tel: 01582 510380 Email: [email protected] Web: www.luton.gov.uk

www.luton.gov.uk 20 Lutonline February 2015 What do you think? There is a new way for you to influence changes in Luton You can tell us your views on a host of subjects at www.luton.gov.uk/consult

Luton’s consultation website is open to anyone over the age of 18 years You can either register your who lives in Luton and Bedfordshire. Once you register, and tell us which details online at https://secure. topics interest you, we will email you when a relevant consultation luton.gov.uk/surveys/consult, or begins. return this form to: With your own personal log-in, you can respond to surveys, opinion polls, Freepost RTJH-XXEX-AZSX take part in online discussion forums, read about findings and what – Consultation website has happened as a result – and keep track of surveys you have taken part in. Luton Borough Council Town Hall This consultation website is only used by Luton Borough Council and its George Street public sector partners. Your details will not be passed to any commercial organisations. Luton LU1 2BQ

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www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 Broccoli Stalk Soup Advert_v3.pdf 1 14/01/2015 16:20 21 Free learning help for two-year-olds

BROCCOLI STALK SOUP Recipe by Irene Pizzie

Ingredients

Do you want to give your two-year- to work, access training or education or 4 potatoes, peeled and cut ½ tablespoon fennel seeds old the best start in life? Then help simply enjoy some ‘me time’. into chunks (optional) them to learn through play. Cllr Waheed Akbar, Portfolio Holder for children’s services, said: “We know 1 onion, nely chopped Salt If you are a Luton resident and on that children can develop a number a low income or receiving benefits or of vital skills simply by playing and 2 carrots, peeled and cut Black Pepper credits, you could receive up to 15 hours interacting with each other. into chunks of free childcare per week for your two- “If you have a two-year-old please Sour cream or crème fraiche year-old. do not miss out on this fantastic A handful of pearl barley or Having a free place in a high- A few tarragon leaves opportunity. Free childcare is good for red lentils quality, exciting, enjoyable and secure both your child and you too!” C environment is a fantastic way to help Leftover broccoli stalks children to develop. ●● For more details about childcare in M (about 200g) Your child will acquire new skills, your area, and to see if your two-year- Y from learning to talk and listen, to old is eligible for a free place, call the Luton Family Information Service on CM playing and exploring, and they will 1 Put the potatoes, onion, carrots, make lots of new friends too. 01582 548888, email [email protected] MY This is a great recipe for using or visit www.luton.gov.uk/timefor2s pearl barley or lentils in a large pan Meanwhile you will get the chance up broccoli stalks, which are CY and cover with water. often thrown away. You can use CMY What parents say: 2 Bring to the boil and reduce the any other left over leafy K heat and simmer for about ten vegetables such as Brussels “I have more time to myself which has helped during my pregnancy. My child has sprouts, cauliower, purple gained confidence. I am glad I made the choice for my child’s sake.” Mrs Mehmood minutes. Add the broccoli stalks and fennel and continue to cook sprouting broccoli, spinach “My child was behind on speech and language and also confidence and financially I until all the vegetables are just tender. or kale to create a lovely was struggling to keep him in nursery. Then when I got introduced to the funding I was wholesome soup. relieved as it allowed my child to get the support and help he needed. He is now more 3 Take o the heat and allow to cool confident and also his speech is coming along. It has also helped me to get back to work. Overall, I’m so thankful.” Mrs Hussain a little before pouring into a blender and pureeing until smooth. Taste and season.

4 Pour into warm bowls and add New award for school a little sour cream or crème fraiche, swirl into the soup and add a few health and wellbeing sprigs of herb such as tarragon. Each portion contains Helping children and young people make behaviour, safety and safeguarding. Calories Sugar Fat Saturates Salt Fibre the right choices to keep themselves Cllr Aslam Khan, Portfolio Holder for 148 5g 3g 1.2g 1.3g 4.6g healthy is the aim of a new scheme public health, said: “The School Health 7% 6% 5% 6% 22% 18% launched recently by Luton’s Mayor. and Wellbeing Award provides a useful of an adult’s guideline daily amount The School Health and Wellbeing tool to help improve health outcomes for Award is a locally accredited local children and young people, with programme involving whole schools to key partners working together to help Did you know? help students make the most out of life achieve this goal. and learning, and ensure they are fully “We are encouraging all secondary The average family throws away food worth £50 every month! aware of potential risks to health and schools in Luton to join the award To help you make the most of the groceries you buy, Luton Borough Council where to go for support if they need it. scheme now, along with a few pilot is bringing you a super series of recipes in association with the Government’s It is backed by public health, school primary schools. The scheme will be Love Food Hate Waste campaign. leaders and support services, police, open to all schools in January, including CHUMS (the child bereavement service) academies and free schools.” For more tasty tips and advice on how to reduce food waste, go to and external agencies. The award has bronze, silver and gold www.luton.gov.uk/recycling Schools taking part are encouraged tiers and will recognise outstanding to ensure staff are fully trained in work as part of an accredited process. areas such as domestic violence, ●● More information for schools interested sexual exploitation, radicalisation and in taking part is available at www. extremism. The initiative is also in schoolsupportatluton.co.uk/news or by line with new Ofsted requirements for emailing [email protected]

www.luton.gov.uk 22 Lutonline February 2015 Everyone’s a winner with Travel Luton!

Travel Luton advisers have had One of our winners, James Stevens, was some fantastic conversations with looking forward to sharing it with his family; Luton residents over the last year, keen mountain biker Sayera Islam was discussing their travel behaviours thrilled to receive hers at work; and Theresa and challenging people to use more Gazard even sent us a short poem. active and sustainable forms of The great giveaway did not stop there either, transport on a regular basis. as we announced December’s Travel Luton We have been going door-to-door, Challenge prize draw winner as James attending a variety of community Manger. events and speaking with businesses James successfully completed his challenge about how their employees’ journeys to walk into town at least three times a week in Luton can be cheaper, more with his wife Zoe instead of taking the car, convenient and less stressful simply and was pleased to win a hamper and MP4 by walking, cycling or using public player. transport. If you or your community group would like Loyal Travel Luton Club members, to get involved in the Travel Luton project, who signed up during the campaign to or if you require specific travel advice, email receive useful updates on local travel us at [email protected]. Alternatively, if news and offers, had the opportunity you would like to plan a journey by walking, via December’s newsletter to enter a cycling or public transport, visit our prize draw and win festive hampers for website www.travelluton.co.uk Christmas, and it was pleasing to receive positive feedback at the presentation ceremonies.

Our lucky winners receive their festive prizes

www.travelluton.co.uk www.luton.gov.uk Lutonline February 2015 23 Please scoop the poop In a bid to help reduce dog fouling Councillor advice surgeries locally, the Council is supporting the national ‘We’re watching you’ campaign launched recently by Labour Keep Britain Tidy and aimed at dog Ward Councillors Date, time, venue/contact walkers who don’t scoop the poop. Recent research shows that dog Barnfield Rachel Hopkins Second Saturday of every month,10.30am-12noon, walkers are more responsible and pick Thoughtless dog owners Bushmead Community Centre, Hancock Drive up after their dogs when they think they W e’r e Biscot Mohammad Ayub First and last Saturday of every month, 10am-12noon, are being watched. watching you! Naseem Ayub Bury Park Community Centre, 161 Dunstable Road Keep Britain Tidy recently ran a 9 out of 10 dog owners Tahir Khan social experiment working with 20 land clean up after their dog. managers across the country, resulting Challney Khtija Malik Every Saturday, 10am-12noon, in an average reduction of 46 per cent in Are you the one who doesn’t? Tom Shaw Chaul End Community Centre, Tahir Malik 515 Dunstable Road the levels of dog fouling. Bag that poo, any rubbish bin will do Feedback suggests dog fouling tends Crawley Melvin Cato First and third Saturday of every month, 9.30-11.30am, to occur more at night and during the Hart Hill Adventure Playground, Brooms Road winter because some dog owners feel they cannot be seen under the cover of Dallow Mohammed Ashraf Last Saturday of every month, 10am-12noon, darkness. people who always pick up after Mohammed Farooq and last Thursday of every month, 3-5pm, Council dog wardens are taking their dog and dispose of the poo bags Dallow Community Centre, 234 Dallow Road part in Keep Britain Tidy’s edgy and correctly, either in the nearest bin or by Tafheen Sharif Last Tuesday of every month, 9.30-10.30am, uncompromising ‘We’re watching you’ taking home to dispose of in their own Bury Park Resource Centre, 161 Dunstable Road poster campaign to tackle dog fouling household waste bin. hotspots in Luton. “We are pleased to be working with Farley Sian Timoney Every Saturday, 10am-12noon, Created using innovative and cutting- Keep Britain Tidy and to be taking part Mahmood Hussain Housing Office, Farley Community Centre, edge materials clearly visible after dark, in this cutting-edge campaign, and we Paul Castleman Delphine Close the posters have gone up in Waldeck hope we will achieve the same successful Hightown Andy Malcolm Every Thursday, 10-11am, Road, Colin Road alley, Mussons Path, results as the local authorities who took Roxanna Whittaker Hightown Community Centre, Concorde Street Putteridge Road and Onslow Road. part in the trial campaign.” They are also on display at Keep Britain Tidy chief executive Phil Leagrave Waheed Akbar First and third Saturday of every month (excluding Appledown Kennels as a reminder for Barton said: “Our research tells us that Sheila Roden August), 10am-12noon, Hockwell Ring Community visting dog owners. people see dog fouling as by far the most Desline Stewart Centre, Mayne Avenue unacceptable and dirtiest type of litter. Cllr Dave Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Lewsey Joan Bailey Every Saturday, 10am-12noon, environment, said: “Feedback from local “This campaign has been proven to Aslam Khan Lewsey Farm Community Centre, Landrace Road residents shows dog fouling is a key make a difference and encourages the Hazel Simmons issue in Luton. minority of dog owners who don’t pick “Most dog owners are responsible up after their pets to do the right thing.” Limbury Jacqueline Burnett Second Saturday of every month, 10am-12noon, Stephen Lewis Leagrave Library, Marsh Road Northwell Roy Davis First and third Saturday of every month, 10am-12noon, Don Worlding Futures House, Marsh Farm Round Green Yaqub Hanif Every Saturday (excluding August), 10-11.30am, Mark Rivers 3 Yeovil Road Mohammed Zia Saints Mohammed Riaz Last Saturday of every month, 10am-12noon, Raja Saleem Saints Community Centre, Solway Road North Asma Rathore South Keir Gale First and third Saturday of every month, Amy O’Callaghan 10.30-11.30am, Park Town Community Centre, Dave Taylor Bailey Street Sundon Park Syd Knight Third Saturday of every month, 10am-12noon, Futures House, Marsh Farm, 07958 634 798.

Liberal Democrats – please contact the numbers below Ward Councillors Contact Barnfield Clive Mead 50 86 99 Crawley David Franks 41 49 25 Stopsley Jenny Davies 07702 444 021 Michael Dolling 42 96 46 Sundon Park Doris Hinkley 59 25 16 Wigmore Peter Chapman 48 06 29 Diane Moles 72 32 93 Alan Skepelhorn 27 18 51

Conservatives – please contact the numbers below Ward Councillors Contact Bramingham Gilbert Campbell 57 22 52 Katie Foord 07718 118 094 Icknield Michael Garrett 57 56 30 John Titmuss 50 86 74

www.luton.gov.uk/councillors

www.luton.gov.uk Children and Families

National Libraries Day: Give a Book a Jacket Saturday 7 February, 11-11.45am: Luton Central Library Saturday 7 February, 2.15-3pm: Stopsley Library

Celebrate libraries, and make a jacket for your favourite book, to mark the start of Luton’s Word Fest. For school-aged children and their families. Free, donations welcome

Bedtime Stories: The Midnight Library Tuesday 10 February, 4.45-5.15pm: Leagrave Library Wednesday 11 February, 4.45-5.15pm: Luton Central Library Thursday 12 February, 4.15-4.45pm: Lewsey Library Once there was a library which only opened at night ... will you be as helpful as Kazuno Kohara’s little librarian? For children aged three+ years and their families. Free, donations welcome

Full House presents Full House presents Le Petit Artiste Theatre Company present Imagination Station Bubble Disco The Ugly Duckling 17-20 February, 11am-3pm Tuesday 17 February, Tuesday 17 February, 11.30am & 2.30pm The Hat Factory 11.30am & 2.30pm Luton Central Library Stockwood Discovery Centre Wednesday 18 February, 11.30am Hockwell Ring Community Centre A free drop-in creative playroom for children Leagrave Library Playschemes of all ages. Activities include arts and crafts, A fun-packed experience for children up to age storytelling and music. eight years. Learn some new moves on a dance The Ugly Duckling is a unique retelling of Hans 17-21 February Some activities may be chargeable floor packed with bubbles and balloons. Christian Andersen’s classic tale. Be enchanted Hockwell Ring Community Centre Free. Please book to avoid disappointment by exploding eggs, singing frogs, dancing swans and live music. For further details contact the centre on For ages three+ years. 01582 548392 Free. Please book to avoid disappointment Luton Central Library Stockwood Discovery Centre Wardown Park Museum The Hat Factory Luton Library Theatre is located St George’s Square, Luton LU1 2NG London Road, Luton LU1 4LX Old Bedford Road, Luton LU2 7HA 65-67 Bute Street, Luton LU1 2EY within Luton Central Library 01582 547418 01582 548600 01582 546722 01582 878100 Luton Culture is a local charity that provides you with excellent cultural activities | Charity No. 1122964

Theatre of Widdershins present Half Moon presents a Word Pepper Theatre Stories of British Wildlife Beautiful Beds Skinny Widd Stories production Saturday 28 February, 11-11.45am: Continues until 26 April Wednesday 18 February, Pop-Up Flashback Leagrave Library Wardown Park Museum: Threads of Life Gallery 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm Thursday 19 February, Saturday 28 February, 2.15-3pm: Stockwood Discovery Centre 11.30am & 2.30pm Marsh Farm Library An exhibition of bed coverings: from delicate The Hat Factory butterflies to long lengths of narrow lace, Using some puppets, props and costumes, See the photos from Stockwood Discovery this display shows the skills of Bedfordshire hear a range of stories from all over the world, Enter an imaginative world of memories Centre and enjoy stories of Britain’s wildlife at lacemakers from 100 years ago. including folk tales, fairy tales and myths, told through poetry and incredible pop-up books your local library. Free with the gusto of a live theatrical show. in this funny and heart-warming adventure of For school-aged children and their families. For children of all ages. complicated families and growing up. Free, donations welcome Free. Please book to avoid disappointment For ages five+ years. British Wildlife Photography 2014 £7.50 – get an adult ticket free with every full Continues until 15 March price ticket purchased OR get a Festival Pass for Stockwood Discovery Centre Komedia present £25 and see four shows. Pitschi – The Kitten with Dreams The British Wildlife Photography exhibition will Wednesday 18 February, Exhibitions feature over 100 images and videos, including 11.30am & 2.30pm winning and commended entries. The Hat Factory Luton Art ’14 Exhibition Winning images are chosen from thousands of Countinues until 22 February entries in 16 separate categories, including a Pitschi doesn’t care for the rough and tumble Wardown Park Museum special film category for wildlife in HD video, and and mischievous fun of kitten play, but instead three junior categories to encourage young people dreams of being something else – a chicken, An exhibition of works by local artists in a range to connect with nature through photography. perhaps, or a goat, or a rabbit … for after all, of media and styles, selected from submissions Visit this stunning exhibition which celebrates anything is better than being a cat! to the Luton Art Competition. both the work of amateur and professional Come and enjoy this classic Swiss story that has Free photographers and the beauty and diversity of delighted generations of children and cat lovers British wildlife. all around the world. Free For ages two to seven years and their families. Water Wiggle Workshop £7.50 – get an adult ticket free with every full Thursday 19 February, price ticket purchased OR get a Festival Pass for 11.30am & 2.30pm £25 and see four shows. Tokko Youth Centre Theatre, Dance & Extended event: A fun-filled creative dance workshop exploring Pitschi – The Kitten with Dreams raindrops, rivers and waves! This 45-minute Comedy Workshop session offers an opportunity for participants to Townsend Productions present Wednesday 18 February, 3.30pm learn a new dance and create their own moves. United We Stand The Hat Factory For ages five to seven years. Thursday 5 February, 7.30pm £3 After-show workshop with activities including The Hat Factory making and decorating a kitten mask and playing cat-themed games. Propeller presents Sharp and humorous, United We Stand tells For ages two to seven years. Pocket Comedy the story behind a compelling dispute and dispels the myth, put about at the time, that £3 Friday 20 February, 2.30pm the pickets were criminally violent rather than Luton Library Theatre ordinary working men seeking a better life for themselves and their fellow workers. Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors for young £10, £8 concessions audiences. Two sets of estranged twins, separated at birth, find themselves in the same city 25 years later with hilarious consequences. For ages eight+ years. £7.50 – get an adult ticket free with every full price ticket purchased OR get a Festival Pass for £25 and see four shows.

Other venues: Libraries – Bury Park, Leagrave, Lewsey, Marsh Farm, Stopsley. BOX OFFICE: Community centres – Bury Park, Bushmead, Chaul End, Farley, Futures, Hockwell Ring, Lewsey, Limbury, Park Town, Raynham Way, Saints. For full details please visit our website. 01582 878100 www.lutonculture.com Groups and Societies

Next Generation Youth Theatre present The Basement Gaming Club Music on Mondays: Symphonia Music on Mondays: Petroc Trelawny’s Quiz Love For Dummies Every Friday, 7pm Academica Night Friday 20 February, 6.30pm The Hat Factory Monday 2 February, 7.45pm Monday 23 February, 7.45pm The Hat Factory Luton Library Theatre Luton Library Theatre Join us for a fantasy games night, to be held This autobiographical journey chapters our every Friday on the second floor of The Hat Peter Bussereau’s orchestra returns with another Enthusiastic teams of audience members will very own personal encounters with love in its Factory. Complete with licensed bar and a inventive programme of music for chamber compete for glory in this classical music quiz many forms. From loving oneself to loving one’s variety of gaming tables including Magic the ensemble. The concert will be shaped around a featuring live performances by surprise guests. A first, love that is lost and butterflies that burst, Gathering, Games Workshop, 40k, Bloodbowl, tribute to composer, pianist, musicologist and relaxed and social evening hosted by one of BBC love that is confused and love that leaves you and more. broadcaster Antony Hopkins who, until his death Radio 3’s foremost presenters. bruised. There will be tournaments and leagues with in May 2014, had been President of Luton Music £15, concessions £8, under 18s free £7.50 – get an adult ticket free with every full prizes, so come along, have fun and happy since 1959. price ticket purchased OR get a Festival Pass for gaming. £15, concessions £8, under 18s free £25 and see four shows. If you would like to book a gaming table please contact [email protected] For ages 18+ years. Zion Train Free entry Music on Mondays: Evva Mizerska & Saturday 28 February, 8pm The Hat Factory Emma Abbate Monday 9 February, 7.45pm Starting out in the UK’s rave party scene in the Luton Library Theatre early 1990s, the band have come a long way by Luton Poetry Society touring in Europe, Asia and the Americas, and This concert is an opportunity to welcome exciting audiences at club gigs and festivals. Zion Last Saturday of the month, 2-4pm friends of Luton’s Polish community to Music Luton Central Library Train have been the undisputed leaders in the on Mondays, with an unusual and revelatory dub/dance genre for the past two decades. repertoire from these Polish chamber music As one of the most unique and enjoyable live dub £3, free for Poetry Society members (£20 annual specialists. Before the recital an exhibition of membership). acts on the planet, they are well known for using musically-inspired prints by distinguished Polish dynamic onstage dub mixing while performing Our meetings usually take place on the last photographer Renata Iris Lardner will be opened Saturday of each month at Luton Central Library alongside acoustic instruments and exceptional at the Library Theatre. vocalists. (third floor). £15, concessions £8, under 18s free February’s theme is ‘Valentine’. £15 on the door, £12.50 in advance

The Comedy Bar Music Friday 20 February, 8pm The Hat Factory Music in the Museum: The Situators Sunday 8 February, 2pm Come along, bring your friends, and bathe in the Wardown Park Museum comedy outpourings of the country’s up-and- coming talent. £3, in exchange for two hours Local band The Situators are a guitar and vocal of chuckles, is the bargain of the year to see group that play a wide range of familiar and less Music on Mondays: Clare Hammond the stars of the future before they release their well-known music based on strong rhythms and Monday 16 February, 7.45pm ghost-written biographies and grin at you from tight harmony singing. Frequently described as “a Luton Library Theatre every DVD aisle. breath of fresh air”, The Situators’ choice of songs This open-mic comedy club is held every third and unique delivery will both sound great and This gifted young pianist offers highlights from Friday of the month. entertain, perfect to raise the spirits in deepest, her recent CD of concert studies by Chopin, For ages 16+ years. darkest February. Lyapunov and Kapustin. It’s a timely opportunity £3 (free to performers) £5 also to hear Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin, with each movement dedicated to the memory of a friend who died in the First World War. £15, concessions £8, under 18s free

Luton Central Library Stockwood Discovery Centre Wardown Park Museum The Hat Factory Luton Library Theatre is located St George’s Square, Luton LU1 2NG London Road, Luton LU1 4LX Old Bedford Road, Luton LU2 7HA 65-67 Bute Street, Luton LU1 2EY within Luton Central Library 01582 547418 01582 548600 01582 546722 01582 878100 Luton Culture is a local charity that provides you with excellent cultural activities | Charity No. 1122964 Talks, Workshops and Coming Soon

Other Events Andrew O’Neill’s History of Heavy Metal Gina Yashere Laugh Riot! Fellswoop Theatre Company present Thursday 5 March, 7.30pm Saturday 7 March, 8pm Ablutions Saturday Selection The Hat Factory Luton Library Theatre Thursday 26 March, 7.30pm Every Saturday until 21 February 2015 The Hat Factory 11am-1pm & 2-4pm Andrew O’Neill answers all the questions you Multi award-winning Gina Yashere is back in Wardown Park Museum were afraid to ask the big hairy men in that pub the UK with her biggest tour to date! She has Picture yourself as a bartender, sipping top-shelf you have always avoided. Whether you are a appeared on various American TV shows such as whiskey and watching your customers descend Visitors will be able to get up-close and committed headbanger or the type of person The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Def Comedy Jam into nightly oblivion. Your heart is broken by hands-on with a range of weird and wonderful who would not know Napalm Death if they were and The Rosie O’Donnell show as well as being a the world around you and, leaving the whiskey objects from the museum’s many and varied squatting your garden shed, this show is hugely staple on The Lenny Henry Show, Mock the Week aside, you hatch a devious, unthinkable plan of collections. Each week the museum will be funny and massively entertaining. and Live at the Apollo here in the UK. escape. searching its stores and bringing out objects Combining stand-up comedy with live music After rapturously-received shows at The Award-winning FellSwoop Theatre present for people to see and handle, many of which played on his customised Flying V guitar, O’Neill Underbelly Festival this summer, Gina is back Ablutions, a dark, modern drama adapted from have never before been on display. paints a picture of a subculture and history that with her new show and a couple of classic stories. the novel by Man Booker shortlisted author Free has rocked the world. For ages 16+ years. Patrick DeWitt. A grimly funny tale from the £10, £8 concessions £15 in advance, £17.50 on the door sodden depths of the Los Angeles underworld, Ablutions blends a live soundtrack with detailed mime and DeWitt’s heart-wrenching humour. £10, £8 concessions Luton Libraries Six Book Challenge Continues until June 2015 All Luton Libraries

We all know that it can be difficult in our busy day-to-day lives to find the time to enjoy a good book, relax with your favourite magazine or catch up with the latest news stories. So Luton libraries are challenging you to participate in the Six Book Challenge. Despite the title, you can choose to read anything that appeals, including magazines, newspapers, poems, plays, games, Ali Cook – The Art of Astonishment websites and books. Just pop into your local Thursday 19 March, 8pm Luton library to register and you will be given a The Hat Factory reading diary to record your progress. Then take your diary, including a brief comment about Ali Cook is a historian of deception, a sleight-of- each item you have read, to your nearest library hand expert, a street magician, escapologist, to be signed. stage illusionist and performer of thought control. Once you have completed your reading diary you The star of Penn & Teller: Fool Us, Dirty Tricks and will be given a certificate and, if you are one of Monkey Magic, the award-winning TV magician the lucky few, a further mystery gift. promises a night of breathtaking magic. Happy reading! £10, £8 concessions Free

Afternoon of Discovery: Valentines 20 February, 2-3.30pm Stockwood Discovery Centre, Wenlock Room

A look at some of Luton’s most interesting history through film footage, photographs and museum artefacts. Tea and coffee included. £7, £5 concessions