The wootton parish news
WINTER EDITION DECEMBER 2018
https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk Contacts Directory St Mary's Church Canon Peter Ackroyd: 768 391 Church Hall: 767 158
Parish Council Chairman Wootton New Life Methodist Church Gareth Lloyd: 07414 551 820 Rev Charlie Connor: 767 865 Parish Council Vice Chairman John Wheeler: 07913 409 433 Baptist Church Parish Clerk Mr Rob Stanton: 766 293 Sue Playford: 07531 930 788 3 Longden Close, Haynes, Bedfordshire MK45 3PJ Roman Catholic Church Father Seamus Keenan: 352 569 Parish Councillors Gerald Bygraves: 07792 842 601 Doctor's Surgeries Chris Gibbons: 07969 529 799 Wootton Vale: 762 500 Bob Hensher: 767 774 Cranfield, High St: 750 234 Lisa Lewis: 07986 187 844 Kempston, Cater St: 849 090 Hazel Martin: 767 622 Kempston, King St: 852 222 Jeff Noakes: 07806 470 411 Kempston, St John St: 851 323 Stuart O’Dell: 767133 NHS Direct: 0845 46 47 Paul Quirk: 768 832 Bob Wallace: 768 011 Wootton Facilities Pharmacy: 765 166 Bedford Borough Councillor Post Office: 768 368 John Wheeler: 07913 409 433 Library: 766 061
Hall Booking Village Club & Organisations Memorial Hall - Naomi Ward: 07722 876 252 1st Wootton Rainbows - Elaine: 765 419 Scout Hall - Mark Atkins: 311 386 2nd Wootton Rainbows – Vickie: 602146 Village Hall - Jenny Lambert: 767 488 1st Wootton Boys Brigade - Allan: 319 269 Wootton Blue Cross Hall: 767 662 1st Wootton Girls Brigade - Nicola: 319 269 Acorn Quilters - Dorothy: 409 566 Complex (Multi Use Games Area) bookings Badminton Monday - Chris: 07740 939 109 Sue Playford: 07531 930 788 Badminton Thursday - Freda: 270 638 Badminton Juniors - Colin: 270 283 Schools Beavers - Louise Ward: 07753 811 910 Wootton Upper: 767 123 Bowls Monday - Viv: 855 383 Holywell Middle: 750 381 Bowls Thursday - Rena: 768 012 Marston Vale Middle: 768 224 Brennan School of Dance: 822 831 Wootton Lower: 768 239 Brownies Tuesday - Denise: 314 030 Wootton Lower PTFA Contact: 768 239 Brownies Wednesday - Rebecca: 07721 686868 Brownies Friday - Jodie: 07799 140 668 Police Cubs - Christopher: 304 588 HQ: 841 212 Country Players - Wendy: 401 460 Beat Manager: 842 433 Explorers - Kit: 07792 372 570 Non Emergency: 101 Group Scout Leader - Kit: 07792 372 570 Anti-Social Behaviour: 276 037 Guides - Gill: 856 566 '55' Club - Arthur: 768 405 Good Neighbour Scheme: 07717 770 247 Marston Vale Forest School: 07811 087 322 Patacake Baby/Toddlers - Chau: 07854 885 746 Playgroups Royal British Legion Wootton Poppy Appeal Bizzy Bees - Paula Bannell: 767 185 Organiser - Chris Ashpole: 07865 051 453 St Mary's - Tracey Kerins: 767 158 Scouts - Dave: 07780 954 307 Wootton Community Nursery Tang Soo Do - Pat: 07917 805 863 Kayleigh:07534 308 632 Wootton Golf Society - Pete: 07975 596 164 Women's Institute - Kath: 765 333 Speed Watch Co-ordinator Wootton Rangers FC - Jeremy: 07446 770193 Malcolm Chalmers: 07864 295520 Wootton Blue Cross: 767 662
02 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Inside The Winter Edition facebook.com/ f WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 04 Chairman's Report 06 Parish Clerk's Report 07 Dates for your Diary 08 Borough Councillor Report 11 Bizzy Bees Pre School 13 Wootton Village Agent 14 Wootton Community Nursery 15 Poppy Waterfall 16 St. Mary's Pre School 17 Poem 18 Remembrance Day 19 Stewartby Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society 20 Wootton Good Neighbours 21 WW1 22 Outstanding Parish Council Issues Editor in Chief - Sue Playford 24 St. Mary's Church Editor - Gareth Lloyd 25 Wootton Vale Healthy Living Centre Design & Print - Bespoke Media www.bespokemedia.org 26 Samaritans 32 Wootton W.I 33 Wootton Baptist Church Editorial Notes: 34 Wootton New Life Methodist Wootton News is overseen by an Church editorial sub group of the parish 36 News from the Forest council. While every effort has been 37 Community Speedwatch made to ensure that information in this newsletter is accurate, the parish council 39 Wootton Upper School accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. It should be noted that Next Issue: March 2019 articles written by individuals do not necessarily represent the views of the Copy Date: 1st February 2019 council. Please send all articles to the Wootton News editor (gareth.t.lloyd@ The Wootton News can by read online at: googlemail.com by the copydate. https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk Advertisements are usually half page If you have any comments or opinions on how to improve the (£30 for black and white, or colour). If you Wootton News, please send them to Sue Playford (Parish wish to advertise then please send your Clerk): details to the editor. The advertisements are taken in good faith and we cannot [email protected] or call on 07531 930 788 accept any responsibility for bad service or workmanship received.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 03 Chairman' s Report Gareth Lloyd
As for the Community Centre – well it’s a bit like British Rail. It may be late but we are getting there!!! An independent fire safety assessment report has just been completed by Churches Fire Security Ltd and several serious defects were noted. In addition, the building was built without any aid to communication (hearing loop) which contravenes building regulations. Given the building will be used for public meetings Gareth Lloyd and numerous other uses, this is a grave omission. The parish council has raised As I put this report together, I am reflecting these issues several times with Persimmon on how the village pulled together for the Homes (the developers) and MiSpace (the Remembrance Sunday Centenary – with builders) and has written again to get these the Memorial display created on the Fields shortcomings and defects addressed. Road roundabout and the poppy waterfall Hopefully they will be completed by the created at the Memorial Hall. So many time you read this report. residents of all ages came together to do something positive for the whole parish The Parish Council are looking for people to and I would like to thank all who took sit on the management committee for the part especially Sheila Warman, Sue and community centre, so if you are interested Keith Randell and all their colleagues. The please contact the clerk and look out Remembrance Sunday parade was the for notices on our Facebook page. That largest seen for some considerable time, management committee will be responsible with seventeen wreaths laid at the war for setting up the hall and the day-to-day memorial. running of the community centre, including all bookings – please do not ask the clerk to The new playground at the recreation take bookings. ground (for ages 0-8 years) should be completed in mid-December, weather I would like to thank permitting. We have had a great team of everyone who helped parents and councillors who have raised dress the tree, adding their over £100,000 to build this additional own decorations to give it playground and we hope many young a more personal feeling. children will enjoy this new facility. Thank Finally, I would also like to you to everyone involved with this project – thank everyone who helped especially our two parent members Stacey organise and/or attended the switching on Gittens and Emma Brett. of the Christmas tree lights. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Useful Numbers Fly tipping Police non-emergency number Dog fouling/Being walked 01234 267422 101 on the recreation ground 01234 718060 Anti-Social behaviour Noise complaints 01234 276037 & 101 01234 227266
04 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Improve your home with Custom Glaze
The local, family-run business who have been busy improving your homes for over 37 years. Rely on us to give our best price first time, every time – no gimmicks, no hassle. We are members of leading quality-assurance organisations to give you added reassurance.
a+ Energy rated Windows fitted as standard
Visit our comprehensive Milton Keynes Showroom Many more door styles and colours available roving y p ou m r • COMPOSITE EnTranCE dOOrS I
• COnSErVaTOrIES • WIndOWS h s o r m37 a • frEnCh dOOrS • PaTIO dOOrS es ye • BI-fOLd dOOrS • rOOfLInE for 37 Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 6pm, Sat 9.30am - 5pm, Sun 10am - 4pm Unit 8, Denbigh Hall Industrial Estate, Milton Keynes MK3 7QT Registered Company Call 01908 650140 or visit www.customglaze.co.uk for an online estimate
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 05 Parish Clerk's Report Sue Playford very small waiting list which could be even smaller as I write this article, so do get in touch if you are interested. Her telephone number is: 07977 341861.
The parish council is often contacted by residents concerned about speeding in the village. There is an active Speed Watch team in the village, overseen by Malcolm Chalmers who many of you may know as a former Wootton Upper School teacher and ex-parish councillor. That scheme [email protected] is not under the jurisdiction of the parish 07531 930 788 council – so if you would like to learn more, The parish council has now received the or perhaps join as a volunteer, please see paperwork from Bedford Borough Council the article on page 37 for details of who to to install two further planters – in addition to contact. Still on the vehicle front – the parish the three already in the village. Unfortunately council now has an Automatic Number Plate there was a delay receiving that paperwork, Recognition (ANPR) camera installed at the so they will now be planted for summer and recreation ground in an effort to reduce anti- in place then, to compliment the others. social behaviour in the car park. More may yet be added, so watch this space. It just remains for me to wish everyone a I would like to thank Cllrs Lloyd and Wheeler very Happy Christmas and peaceful New for their efforts in putting together the Year. stunning Remembrance display on the Fields Road/Berryfields roundabout. It was Cllr Lloyd’s idea to create a fitting tribute to those who gave their lives during the Great War and the positive comments received from so many have been much appreciated. Cllr Lloyd has reported elsewhere in this Office Location: newsletter in greater detail – do please The Hub, take a look. Please also look for Cllr Quirk’s Wootton Life Methodist Church, annual report on the Remembrance Sunday Cause End Road, MK43 9DE parade.
Thanks also go to everyone to attended Office Hours: Monday and Wednesday the annual Christmas tree lights switch on, morning 10am-12noon which took place on Sunday 25th November. The tree has again been decorated by children and residents and we have a star (Hours may be subject to change and for the first time this year! appointments can be pre-booked, feel free to telephone in advance to ensure the office will be open or availability). Our allotments officer has asked me to remind any resident interested in taking up an allotment plot to contact her – she has a
06 https://woottonpc.bedsparish.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Dates for your Diary 2018/19
DECEMBER 12th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 12th Full Council 7.30pm
JANUARY 2019 9th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 9th Full Council 7.30pm 16th Roads and Pavements Safety Steering Group 7.00pm 16th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group Committee 8.00pm 30th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 30th Finance & General Purposes Committee 7.30pm 30th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group Committee 8.00pm
FEBRUARY 2019 13th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 13th Full Council 7.30pm 20th Fun Fest 7.00pm 27th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 27th Finance & General Purposes Committee 7.30pm 27th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group Committee 8.00pm
MARCH 2019 13th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 13th Full Council 7.30pm 20th Roads and Pavements Safety Steering Group 7.00pm 20th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group Committee 8.00pm 27th Planning & Environment Committee 7.00pm 27th Finance & General Purposes Committee 7.30pm 27th Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group Committee 8.00pm
All meetings are held at the Memorial Hall on Bedford Road, with the exception of the Roads and Footpaths Safety Steering Group and some Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group meetings which are held at The Hub, Wootton New Life Methodist Church, Cause End Road.
Please check noticeboards and the parish council website for any cancellations or changes to timings and/or venue.
(http://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk/noticeboard)
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 07 Wootton News Update from Borough Cllr John Wheeler
SURGERY first Saturday of each month at the Library, 11am to 12 noon
and most Wednesdays at the Hub, Cause End Road, 10am to 12 noon.
Email: [email protected] The Christmas tree light switch on Phone: 07913 409 433 went well and the lights on Bedford and Fields Road look good. Thank you to Sue By the time you are reading this report we Playford, Wootton Lower School and local would have had Remembrance Day, the churches for helping with and organising Wootton Christmas tree switch on by the this. Lower School and the Bob Lunniss annual Christmas Lunch. Firstly I would like to The Bob Lunniss lunch was a Christmas thank Gareth Lloyd and all the Wootton dinner this year and was open to all community for making the Fields Road Wootton residents who are in receipt of a roundabout such a lovely tribute to those state pension. Thank you to the trustees, who have served. It was so nice to see local schools and everyone who helped developers, schools, residents, churches make this event possible. and local clubs and institutions getting so involved - thank you. I, along with Wootton Parish Council, have been busy over the past few months We had a good response from local dealing with parish issues and local schools, clubs and village organisations developers. The nursing care home and regarding the parade and service this retirement apartments on Fields Road year. The weather stayed fine and there are now nearing completion and should was an amazing turnout. It seemed half be finished by the end of February 2019, the village was there to pay their respects enabling the 7.5 tonnes road weight limit to the fallen. The parade was led by the to be enforced, as well as improvements British Legion flag carrier followed by the to the surface of Fields Road and the boys and girls brigade playing marching footpaths and a crossing by the surgery. music to keep us all in step. After a Both Cause End Road from Tithe Barn packed church service led by Canon Road to Church Road / Bedford Road Peter Ackroyd, the parade marched to the from the Post Office to the Memorial Hall war memorial to lay wreaths and personal have been put forward for consideration messages. I would like to thank everyone to be re-surfaced in Bedford Borough involved, especially Gareth Lloyd and Council’s 2019/2020 budget. Steve Rowse who helped to make the day possible. As we are approaching Christmas please look out for all the festive events going
08 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS on around the village and please keep an eye open for the elderly so they are aware of these events and not lonely. Knit and Natter In terms of the wider Borough, there are a few items which may be of interest:
Bedford Hospital’s new Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) opened its doors on the 1st October 2018. The UTC provides same-day appointments for minor illnesses over a 12 hour period, 7 days a week via referrals from A & E The ‘Knit and Natter’ group at the and the 111 phone service as a means of ‘Hub’ on Monday’s, have been reducing pressure on the Hospital’s A & E busy as usual. The photo shows function. some ‘knits’ made by Sheila for the premature babies at Bedford On the 10th – 11th October the High Court Hospital. Other member’s items heard a Judicial Review of the decision were made for the stall held at the of the Environment Agency to grant a ‘Hub’ for Macmillan (which raised permit to US firm Covanta to build a £810.00). waste incineration plant at Stewartby. The case was brought by the campaign group Bedfordshire Against Covanta Incinerator. It was announced at the beginning of November that the case was dismissed, meaning the incinerator will, as it stands, go ahead.
As a reminder, 2 and 3 year olds are eligible to receive the flu vaccine to protect them in the colder months. Children aged 4 are also eligible if they were 3 years old on the 31st August 2018.
Finally I would like to The next project will be the wish you all a very happy ‘Shoe Box Appeal’. Christmas and a prosperous New Year The Hub is adjacent to Best wishes, Wootton New Life Methodist Church Cllr John Wheeler on Cause End Road.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 09 10 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Izzy, wizzy, let’s get Bizzy making learning fun!
MEMORIAL HALL, BEDFORD ROAD, WOOTTON, BEDS, MK43 9JB Website: www.bizzybeespreschool.org Email: [email protected] Tel: 01234 767785
Hello from everyone at Bizzy Bee’s. We were thrilled to welcome our fantastic new Manager, Paula all who took part to make this a lovely Bannell, to our friendly community event. team this September. We are all looking This half term is all about the ‘Seasons’, so forward to getting to know your lovely we have lots of exciting activities planned children and watching them grow and for Bonfire Night, Diwali and CHRISTMAS! learn in readiness for school. Bizzy Bee’s Staff wish all This terms activities so far have been ‘All our children, families and About Me’. We made some wonderful everyone a lovely Autumn displays of our self portraits and our and Christmas Season! families and the jobs they do. We were even vets looking after our animals, and we talked about all the different houses people live in.
The weather has been so wonderful we were able to go walking and pick blackberries to make a delicious fruit crumble.
Bizzy Bee’s 5th Annual Scarecrow Festival was a great success with many wonderful entries from ‘Groups’ and ‘Individual Families’. The winners in each category were Marston Vale Forest Schools ‘Room on the Broom’ and The Warman Family with ‘Mouse House’. Congratulations to
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 11 We currently have spaces Please pop along to our open day! Bizzy Bee’s offer free flow sessional day care including Breakfast and Lunch Clubs for young children from 2 years to school age. We are holding another open day for you and your little people. Please come along to meet the team for a chat and have a look around & play on:
Thursday 24th January 10am 3pm
Our days are term time only Monday to Friday 8.15am – 3.45pm. We accept 2 year old funding and 3/4 year old 15 and 30 hour funding for all of our sessions. We also accept cross funding if your child attends/would like to attend more than one Pre school. Sessions are:
Breakfast Club: 815 9am Breakfast provided AM session: 9 12pm Lunch Club: 12 1245pm Please bring a packed lunch PM session: 1245 345pm If you would like to pop in on a different date just call or drop us an email 01234 767785 [email protected]
Bizzy Bees Pre school CIO
Memorial Hall, Bedford Road
Wootton, MK43 9JB
12 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Wootton Village Agent News
Village Agents provide a free, confidential service and are here to help people over 65 with a variety of issues – large or small. We are funded by Bedford Borough Council. We are all DBS checked and operate in the strictest confidence. Andrea is the Village Agent for Wootton.
Warm Home Discount Scheme – is open again for Winter 2018/19. If you are in receipt of Pension Credit, you should people aren’t claiming the benefits they get the £140 discount off your electricity are entitled to. Andrea can help identify bill automatically. Those people on which benefits you can claim by doing a low income and in receipt of certain a confidential benefits check. She can benefits will have to apply as part of the also help you fill in those complicated Broader Group. Contact Andrea for more forms such as Blue Badge, Council information. Tax Reduction, Housing Benefit and Attendance Allowance forms. Free Home Security – make sure you don’t let any unwanted bogus callers into your home this winter by getting a Please call Andrea, free door chain fitted by the Bobby Van your Village Agent on Scheme. He can come and fit home Freephone 0800 039 1234 security devices including door chains, door viewers and window locks. He can This is an answerphone service, so please also fit smoke alarms and replace old leave your name address & telephone ones. This service is offered to people number, & we aim to call you back within 48 over 65, and although it is free, donations hours are gratefully received.
Help for Pensioners on Low Incomes – Are you receiving the basic state pension and struggling to manage? Your Village Agent can tell you if there is any help available. In addition to Pension Credit, you might get help with NHS Healthcare costs, or a rebate on your energy bill, or a small quarterly gratuity from the St Johns Hospital Trust (if you have been living in Bedford Borough for at least 15 years). Get in touch for a confidential review.
Help with form filling – many older
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 13
Yes, that is correct we have arrived for all of those who saw the building
being built, we are now up and running J.
We have a fantastic Nursery open all year round (closed between Christmas and new year).
8:00am -6:00pm Monday – Friday.
Our Nursery can take up to 60 children for children aged between 6 months – 5 years.
The Nursery and garden have a large space for the children to investigate, explore and develop their learning across the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage).
During the next couple of months, we are going to celebrate Children In Need and Christmas Jumper Day. Keep your eye on the Nursery door for more information.
At Wootton Community Nursery we have a team of very well experienced and qualified members of staff as well as a chef who cooks from fresh and on site.
Please feel free to contact us or simply just pop in to have a look at what we are all about.
We look forward to meeting you.
Wootton Community Nursery, Tyres Court, Wootton, Bedford, MK43 9SP. Contact: Tel: 07534308632 Email: [email protected]
14 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk he wootton PARISH NEWS Poppy Waterfall
Back in April, it was suggested that Wootton could commemorate the signing of the Armistice by creating a waterfall of poppies at the Memorial Hall, and Acorn Quilters and the WI were tasked with organising it. So the call went out for the people of many visitors to see them, and enjoy a Wootton to create a red poppy in any cup of tea and some cake. Thank you to medium and bring it to the Memorial everyone who made the day so special, Hall on the 10th of November. It is with by running workshops so people could heartfelt thanks to everyone who arrived create a poppy to add to the display, to with their poppies to add to the waterfall. those creating the display, and those In fact we received so many, that instead who made and served the refreshments. of just one of the pillars outside the hall I have done some research into all 204 supporting a waterfall of waterproof men from Wootton who served in WW1, poppies, we had enough to cover both, and curated an exhibition of other as well as the railings outside the hall, information that I found - this will be and the fence along the road. Inside made available to view on the Wootton the hall the whole of the wall where the Parish website. The waterproof poppy plaque containing the names of the boys waterfall will be relocated to the Fields of Wootton’s School who died in World Road roundabout, to join the silent War One was covered in paper poppies; watcher. and some hung from the ceiling as well. The sight was breath-taking, and we had Sheila Warman
“Are you sitting comfortably?...... ” Then I’ll begin.
Our friendly reading group is now well into our second year of weekly gatherings.
We meet every Wednesday at Wootton library, from 2:30 to 3:30pm.
Why not come along and join us?
You’ll have:- A short story read to you by Colin, our group leader. Refreshments served by the wonderful library staff at 3:00 pm. The companionship of a lovely group of other members. There are no costs at all. Each story is complete, so it doesn’t matter if you miss a session here or there.
We hope you can join us; we think you’ll really enjoy being part of our group. Look forward to seeing you there.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshirewww.facebook.com/WoottonParishes.gov.uk 15 Established 1967 St. Mary’s Church Hall, St. Mary’s Road, Wootton, Beds MK43 9HB Tel: 01234 767158 Email: [email protected]
It’s been another to our numbers. When the children go on busy term at St holiday or visiting they can take Travelling Mary’s Preschool. Ted with them on their travels. Travelling We have been Ted has already accompanied Lorna to learning about London to march past The Cenotaph at the hedgehogs and Remembrance Parade. hibernation. The children made fir cone hedgehogs and We have celebrated Diwali, the Hindu listened to the story of Isaac the Wide Awake Festival of Light. The children took part in Hedgehog whilst sitting around the campfire a variety of Diwali-themed craft activities, in our Forest School. The children collected such as making diva lamps, rangoli patterns leaves to make prickly collage hedgehogs. and listened to a traditional Diwali story. The Sally the Hedgehog from Marston Hoggies emphasis of the story was about being kind Rescue Centre came to visit us; she was very and helping each other. Having a Diwali- lively and used her little black button nose themed week has introduced the children to sniff out her surroundings. The children to different religions and cultures. For snack enjoyed asking lots of questions and having the children ate vegetable korma with rice, their photo taken with Sally. naan bread and poppadoms.
The children have enjoyed welcoming a new On Tuesday 13th November Pudsey Bear member to St Mary’s Preschool, a guinea came to visit us. The pig called Nibbles. They have been learning children sang ‘Twinkle about how to look after a pet and take it in Twinkle Little Star’ to turn to feed and cuddle Nibbles. When he him and Pudsey did the has settled in the children will be able to actions. On Children in take Nibbles home with them at weekends Need day the children and in the school holidays. and staff came to preschool dressed in St Mary’s Preschool took part spotty clothes. The in this year’s Remembrance children coloured in Day Parade and one of our Pudsey colouring sheets, sang bear songs children laid a wreath at the war and ate Bear crisps for snack, everyone had memorial. We made egg box a BEARilliant day! poppies and in our Forest School sessions the children used a bow saw, drill and paint General Information to make wooden poppy necklaces. St Mary’s Preschool opened in 1967 and operates from the main room within the We have also welcomed ‘Travelling Ted’ Church Hall. Children have access to a
16 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS fully enclosed, grassed outdoor play area. If you would like to put your child's name St Mary’s Preschool supports children down for a preschool place, or require any with special educational needs and/or further information please phone Tracey disabilities and children who speak English on 01234 767158. Alternatively you can call as an additional language. The Preschool is a in to pick up an enrolment form. member of the Pre-School Learning Alliance and is registered by Ofsted. St Mary’s Term time opening hours: Preschool has six qualified members of staff. Mon 9.00 - 12.00 All our staff has many years’ experience of Tues, Wed and Fri 9.00 - 16.00 working with children and their maturity Thurs 9.00 - 15.00 and training ensure that those who come to the preschool have a positive learning experience. St Mary’s Preschool receives funding for early years education. It is open each weekday during term-time only; and offers all day care. The setting serves the local and neighbouring community.
POEM Happy Christmas! Christmas means “The Feast of Christ” The time we celebrate the birth Of Jesus Christ, God’s only son The time that He came down to earth.
That Gift of God to all mankind The greatest gift that God could give To demonstrate His love to us This special gift that we might live.
So- Let’s celebrate with gifts of love With feasting and with merry cheer But not forget the reason why We keep this special time of year
When God’s own Son came down to earth To live for us and then to die A cruel death to take our sins That WE might live with Him on high.
Rebecca Cook ©
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 17 Wootton's Annual Remembrance Day
Wootton’s Annual Remembrance Day parade, service and wreath laying ceremony took place on Sunday 11th November 2018.
The parade, organised by Borough/Parish Councillor John Wheeler and Wootton Parish Council Chairman Gareth Lloyd, assembled in bright sunshine on the recreation ground car park, adjacent to Church Road. The parade was extremely musicians, from the recreation ground well supported, with the attendance of into Church Road and thence past the War many members of the public. The Parade Memorial (eyes left) to the entrance to St. Commander was Flt. Lt. Steven R. Rowse Mary’s church. The British Legion Flag of the Royal Air Force. Leading the parade bearer left the parade to take position in with the Royal British Legion flag held high front of the church porch and was joined was Legionnaire Bob Keech, followed by by other flag bearers. the marching Band of the Boys & Girls Brigade. In uniformed attendance on The remembrance service in Saint Mary’s parade were:- Church was so very well attended that many of the congregation were without 1st Wootton Scouts seats. The service was conducted by 1st Wootton Guides Canon Peter Ackroyd assisted by the 1st Wootton Cubs Revd Lucas Durant. Prayers were led 1st Wootton Beavers by Revd Kath Powell. During the Act of 2nd Wootton Brownies Remembrance the list of all those whose 1st Wootton Brownies names appear on the Wootton war Boys Brigade memorial was read by Flt. Lt. Rowse who Girls Brigade also asked for remembrance of those who have died in other conflicts, including Borough Councillor John Wheeler and the Falklands, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran & members of Wootton Parish Council, Northern Ireland. At 11.00a.m. The Last Wootton Upper, Wootton Lower, Holywell Post was sounded by Buglers of the Boys & Marston Vale Middle Schools, Explorers, Brigade, Dave Simms and Andy Gray, then 1st and 2nd Wootton Rainbows also a two minute silence was observed. marched in the parade. The Bedfordshire Constabulary provided road safety After the service, the parade re-formed supervision. and proceeded to the War Memorial for a wreath laying ceremony witnessed by The Parade Commander advised those more than 500 people. Wreaths were laid present of the procedure that was to be on behalf of:- followed and then at 10.05 hrs. called the parade to attention. The parade then The Royal British Legion, Bedford Borough proceeded in good order and to the Councillor John Wheeler, Wootton Parish sound of the drums and music from the Council, the Upper & Lower Schools of
18 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Wootton, Marston Vale and Holywell Other personal tokens of remembrance Middle schools. Cubs, Scouts, Guides, were also placed by the memorial. Brownies, Beavers, Wootton Rainbows, Boys Brigade, Girls Brigade, Wootton Community First Responder, Wootton WE WILL REMEMBER THEM Wheelers, Wootton Bizzy Bees Pre School, Wootton Community Nursery, St. Mary's Pre School, Women’s Institute and Military Families of Wootton.
Stewartby Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society Welcomes Newcomers
If you are keen on Musical Theatre as performer, back stage or front of house, why not give us a try!
Our society has been in existence since 1951! During that time we have produced many full length musical theatre works, light hearted reviews and concerts. We are always on the lookout for new blood and so particularly welcome newcomers to the villages who might like to get Our shows for 2019 are involved. “A Tribute to 100 Years of the WI”, which will go up in May For our major performances we have and a live orchestra and hire splendid “The Pirates of Penzance”, costumes to enhance our shows. which is planned for November. We have received numerous If you would like to find out compliments from NODA (National more why not visit our website Operatic and Dramatic Association) which gives feedback on amateur theatre. www.saods.org.uk We meet regularly throughout the year Or call Carol Wallman on Thursdays, principals also rehearse 01234 767618 on Mondays.
In the near future, we shall be holding a Meet and Greet evening so do come along and find out all about us.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 19 Wootton Good Neighbours Scheme
Here at Wootton Good Neighbours Scheme HQ we have been extremely busy over the summer months. As winter approaches we are now helping out with lifts to doctors, hospital appointments, garden centres and also the train station! 🚂
We are all villagers from Wootton who Volunteer! give up their time for free to help those who need our help, and If it wasn’t for the volunteers then we wouldn’t be able to help our clients. If you feel that cheaper than a taxi, come with a friendly you can give us a few hours a week smile and stay with you at appointments to help with shopping, befriending if possible, and bring you back home or appointments then email us on safely again. WoottonGoodNeighbourScheme@ gmail.com or phone our co-ordinator on Our closing times over Christmas and 07717 770247. the New Year are from THURSDAY 20th DECEMBER 2018 AT 12 NOON, opening You will have to be DBS checked it would MONDAY 7th JANUARY 2019 at 9.30am. probably suit a semi-retired person. 🚂 🚂
We charge a fee of £2 return trip anywhere WOOTTON GOOD NEIGHBOURS SCHEME in Wootton, our charges outside of wishes you all a Happy Christmas Wootton are charged per mile. We are and a Peaceful New Year.
20 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 21 Outstanding Parish Council Issues & Projects Item Location Deadline
Berryfields ditch Berryfields Ongoing A risk assessment and report were sent by WPC to BBC and Persimmon Homes, setting out health and safety concerns – initially in September 2016. Persimmon Homes’ response did not address all concerns and a further report was sent in August 2017 (having given them time to undertake further works). Persimmon have now confirmed they do not intend to carry out any further works
Christmas street lighting Bedford Road/Fields Road 2018 The Christmas lights were well received in 2017 and residents should now be enjoying those again with additional lighting along Fields Road.
Community Centre Berryfields Ongoing Talks are moving forward to ensure WPC is appointed as the centre’s Management Entity and WPC has already agreed to create a charitable trust to oversee the day-to-day running of the building. Snagging issues including fire safety concerns are being addressed after which it is hoped the legalities can be signed off. If you would like to be part of that charitable trust, please contact the clerk.
Covanta Incinerator Stewartby parish Ongoing WPC is bitterly disappointed to learn the Environment Agency has granted an Environmental Permit to Covanta Energy Ltd and that a recent Judicial Review Claim against the Environment Agency has ruled against BACI’s claim to quash the permit. BACI are now considering the viability of an appeal against the decision. For fuller information please visit their website: https://bedsagainstincinerator.wordpress.com/
Local Plan 2035 (now 2030) Throughout the village Ongoing At the time of compiling this table, BBC are due to formally approve their Local Plan in early December 2018
Marston Vale Innovation Park Towards the A421 Ongoing BBC approved the proposal despite WPC’s and numerous objections. A Development Liaison Group (consisting of parish councillors and residents) met in September 2018 with representatives from BBC and Goodmans (who will be developing the Innovation Park). The idea is to pass as much information on to residents to keep everyone informed on latest developments. Please check our website and Facebook page for further information.
Neighbourhood Plan The whole civil parish of Wootton 2019 Findings from the second consultation (entitled Issues & Options) have just been published on WPC’s website and the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group continues to make good progress towards delivering a Neighbourhood Plan that meets resident’s wants and needs.
22 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Parking restrictions Several sites 2018 within the village The Roads & Pavements Safety Steering Group continues to meet every other month to raise issues (including parking restrictions) for BBC to consider. Residents are welcome to attend those meetings. Minutes to view are available at: http://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk/files/ index?folder_id=10434511 (or request a hard copy from the clerk)
Planters Bedford Road (opposite the Memorial Hall) 2019 and Fields Road (near the Berryfields development) WPC has received the licence paperwork and two further planters will be sited ahead of summer 2019
Recreation ground Recreation ground 2018 emodelling works Regeneration works are ongoing
Roads and Pavements Throughout the village Ongoing The Roads & Pavements Safety Steering Group continues to meet every other month to raise issues (including parking restrictions) for BBC to consider. Residents are welcome to attend those meetings. Minutes to view are available at: http://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk/files/ index?folder_id=10434511 (or request a hard copy from the clerk)
St. Mary’s stone St. Mary’s Church Ongoing and railing cemetery wall Funds have been earmarked to repair or replace as necessary, as both are in a poor state of repair. A fallen ash tree (December 2016) necessitated some works already and WPC has taken forward a structural engineer report which highlighted the wall’s instability in parts. Advice from Historic England is to rebuild the wall using the reclaimed bricks and WPC is currently determining the best way forward. WPC continues to chase Historic England for further assistance and advice
Street lights Throughout the village Ongoing WPC is in talks with BBC on a proposal for the ownership/maintenance of all street lights to be transferred to BBC. The project has been delayed as BBC have had numerous similar requests from other parish and town councils, so need to agree how best to proceed
Please note this is a brief overview of ongoing/proposed projects and the list is not exhaustive as changes can occur before the next newsletter edition goes to print. For fuller information on these or other projects, please contact the Clerk to the Council.
* BBC - Bedford Borough Council *WPC - Wootton Parish Council
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 23 Knowing Jesus; Making www.stmaryswootton.org.uk Jesus Known to all is the heartbeat of St Mary’s. Christmas at St. Mary’s Sunday Services Sun 10 Dec 4pm Christingle 9am Prayer Book Service 10.30am Morning Service - Sun 17 Dec 10.30am Nativity Service including young people’s 6pm Carols by Candlelight groups. Sat 24 Dec 4pm Family Carols 11pm Midnight Communion Encompass Sun 25 Dec 10.30am All-Age Service Monthly on Thursdays 3.45pm Church Hall 22 Nov.
Christianity Explored Regular groups; see our website. Christmas at St. Mary’s
Pathfinders (ages 9 13) Sunday 16 December Weds 7pm term time 4pm Christingle Church Hall. Sunday 23 December
J@M (ages 14 18) 10.30am Nativity Service Sundays 7.15pm term time 6pm Carols by Candlelight at the Church Hall Monday 24 December
Wrigglers Parent/toddler 4pm Family Carols group. Every Monday in 11pm Midnight Communion term time 9.30am at Tuesday 25 December Wootton Baptist Church 10.30am Family Service
Men Behaving Dadly Group for Dads and their 0- 12 year olds. Last Sat of the month 9am. Visit the website for details.
Lunch Club Monthly on Mondays, 1pm, Church Hall 10 Dec, 14 Jan.
Revd Peter Ackroyd: We are a referring agent for the Bedford 768391 Revd Lucas Durant: 313122 Foodbank. If you know of anyone in Church Office: 765375 crisis contact us in confidence.
24 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Wootton Vale Healthy Living Centre
Reception you will be triaged, then sent to the correct place for treatment be it the UTC or A&E. UTC can perform all the checks that are done in A&E because all the facilities are on site. (Interestingly it has been noted that many patients north of the river have turned to the UTC instead of attending the Putnoe Walk in Centre.)
Although you can walk in to the UTC at any time, the most efficient way to be In this edition of the Wootton News, we dealt with, is to ring NHS 111, explain your thought it would be useful to explain the symptoms, then you will be allocated an way the new NHS services in Bedfordshire appointment to attend UTC on the same work and how to access them. day. That way you arrive at your appointed time, get attended to by a GP or Advanced GP EXTENDED ACCESS SERVICE Nurse Practitioner within half an hour, and This service is for those persons who leave within a much shorter time span, can’t get an appointment during the thus reducing sitting in the waiting room normal surgery hours or those that need for hours on end. People who have made to transport older family members, for appointments will have priority over those example, to see a doctor but can’t do it in people who have chosen to walk in. Walk normal surgery hours. You won’t see your ins may still have to wait several hours. own doctor as these appointments are at At the time of writing, current patient London Road Surgery and Riverfield Drive turnaround is approximately one and a Surgery, but the doctor’s will be able to half hours. access your personal records, can refer you for blood tests, x-rays etc. There are nurse appointments available too, so you Access UTC for Appointments by can book any of the services a practice Calling NHS 111 nurse would usually administer. DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN RING NHS 111 To make these appointments ask the AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY OR NIGHT? receptionists at Wootton Vale surgery to book them for you. ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY (A&E) URGENT TREATMENT CENTRE (UTC) A&E is running in the same way it always This opened on October 1st and is running has but on reporting to reception you will very smoothly, already relieving some be streamlined by a medical person and of the pressure from A&E. The UTC sits sent in the appropriate direction either halfway between Primary Care (your UTC or A&E. GP) and Accident & Emergency. It is not intended to be used as an out of hours PUTNOE WALK IN CENTRE GP service. It is for minor ailments that This is still running but on reduced hours are not an emergency but need medical during weekdays. Weekend hours remain intervention. If you need to attend, at the same.
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 25 Samaritans.... Can I help you? on staff and passengers and we have an important partnership with Network Rail, British Transport Police and the rail operating companies. Whenever there has been an incident our volunteers provide a presence at Bedford, Flitwick, Harlington, Sandy and St Neots Stations. These promote awareness of our service as well as providing support for staff and members of the public affected by the incident. This is what you will hear if you ring one of the 201 branches across the UK from the Prison inmates are six times more likely 20,000 people who volunteer their time to kill themselves than people generally. listening for the Samaritans. We work with Bedford Prison Service to train prisoners to provide a Listeners’ Samaritans have been established in Scheme for their fellows going through Bedford since 1963, 10 years after Chad emotional crises. Working with the police, Varah the founder of Samaritans set government agencies and other voluntary up an emergency phone line offering a organisations we have provided support non judgemental, confidential listening for people in police custody and victims service. of modern slavery.
The service today still operates on Chad's Attendance at freshers’ events, giving talks guiding principles of confidential, non- in schools and colleges, and providing judgemental support. teaching resources for emotional health are the basis for our suicide response Who do we support? service for communities of young people. We offer emotional support to anyone Other partnerships include working with who is in distress or going through a hard MIND, Bedford Clinical Commissioning time so when we pick the phone up we Group, GP surgeries, Bedford and have no idea what we will hear. It could Luton Emergency Volunteers Executive be anything... bereavement, bullying, Committee (BLEVEC) and of course other illness, loneliness, mental health, financial Samaritans branches. problems, abuse, suicidal feelings... anything that causes emotional distress. Samaritans vision is that fewer people die We speak to men and women from by suicide. We work to achieve this vision children to the elderly. by helping to alleviate emotional distress and reduce the incidence of suicidal Over the years demands have changed feelings and behaviour. and we continue to develop projects outside of the branch. We do this by answering calls, emails, texts and by being available 24 hours a Suicides on the railways huge effects day 7 days a week,
26 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS 365 days of the year. talk without offering advice and without showing judgement, can help them come Facts about suicide to their own decisions about their own life. 16 people a day die by their own hand. The skill of listening also helps in Suicide is the largest killer of men under my personal and work life as well as 50. Samaritans, making me a better mother, 1 in 15 adults in England have attempted wife (although my husband might not suicide. agree!) and employer. 1 in 7 deaths of new mothers is due to taking their own lives. So as much as helping the callers, Join our team - so many people have it in Samaritans has helped me too which is them to be a Samaritan volunteer. why I am passionate about our service and about raising money to keep Bedford In Bedford we have 100 amazing Samaritans running. volunteers who give up their time to listen or support at our branch they come from Tori Graham (Wootton Resident) all walks of life ranging from 18 – 80! Deputy Director & Listening Volunteer
Unfortunately like most charities we do have running costs which amount to approx £20,000.00 a year, and without any help from grants we need to fundraise to keep the service running.
To find out more about recruitment dates please visit our website – www.samaritans.org/branches/ bedford-samaritans
If you need to call Samaritans - 118 123
On a personal note….. Over 3 years ago I signed up to become a listening volunteer, not really knowing what Samaritans did! It was a decision that changed my life. I learnt how to listen and realised how that simple act can be such a powerful tool.
Giving someone the time to be able to
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 27 BRENNAN SCHOOL OF DANCE
Preschool ‘BABY BALLET’ and ‘RECEPTION BALLET’
WOOTTON, BROMHAM and GREAT DENHAM
Welcome to try classes, no charge until we know your child is happy Call for days and times or visit www.brennanschoolofdance.co.uk 07974 458677
28 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS MIXED ABILITY PILATES CLASSES
Lengthen, Strengthen and Improve Your Flexibility & Stability Wootton Upper School Dance Studio Thursday’s 18:30 to 19:30
GET IN TOUCH FOR MORE INFORMATION
07810 863 467 @ [email protected] www.discover-pilates.com f Facebook.com/discovering.pilates
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 29 30 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS erpE nonnahS pxE r se s nC s ohC r su cnoC e r t bee h5 a u aS rut yad ht51 ebmeceD r l oohcS n r edoM d r o f deB t a mp7 a t deB f o r d edoM r n oohcS l N 4M e nL n naM t no enaL , deB f o r d 14KM TN7
al lepac a elam gnidael s'noigeR nretsaE eht fo eno ees dna emoC dna ees eno fo eht nretsaE s'noigeR gnidael elam a lepac al ,scissalc sselemit dna sgnos evitsef gnimrofreP .spuorg surohc .spuorg gnimrofreP evitsef sgnos dna sselemit ,scissalc ! tirips evitsef eht ot ni uoy teg ot erus si gnineve siht gnineve si erus ot teg uoy ni ot eht evitsef tirips !
6£ dl ihC/ 01£ st ludA era stekciT era ludA st 01£ ihC/ dl 6£ .el f far a dna elbal i ava stnemhser fer eb l l iw erehT iw l l eb fer stnemhser ava i elbal dna a far f .el eisH no So o secr llA l sdeecorp og ot tS 'nhoJ s .ecipsoH
: tisiv esaelp stekcit roF stekcit esaelp tisiv : uocsepennask.cerotkit.w/:stth spt .www//: t surohc-sserpxe-nonnahs/ku.oc.ecruostekci 126 770 : llaC l l : 76710 014246 [email protected] amE i l : [email protected]
ciposhJtSredyReuS/ psoHsnhoJ i ec S@ u e R y d e r S t J o h n s
Sue Ryder is a charity registered in England and Wales (1052076) and in Scotland (SCO39578). Ref No. 04678 © Sue Ryder. December 2015 tekraMthgiR ni detaerC ni tekraMthgiR 8102/11/41 - 1 : 90 : 73 MP
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 31 Wootton WI - INSPIRING WOMEN
We have been pleased to welcome new visitors to our meetings and do hope they have enjoyed our company and our speakers.
In September we learnt about the apprenticeship taken by Andy in his quest to become a jewellery designer. During his apprenticeship, he would travel forthcoming around London by bus with thousands of meetings pounds worth of jewellery in carrier bags whilst delivering it to clients on behalf of his employers. After a time in Australia he and his wife Wendy returned to the UK December 19th and set up a business in Hitchin where he An evening of Magic with Jamie designs and creates bespoke pieces at Whenham. Jamie has got great talent very reasonable prices. and is worth seeing.
Anglian Water were supposed to talk to January 16th 2019 us in October but the Water Ambassador Companion Breads, an organization cancelled at the last minute. We were that supports ex-offenders to resettle very lucky to get a local artist step in effectively into our local communities with three hours’ notice. Verity Slaughter- and not reoffend. In contrast to the industrial loaf, Real Bread is made Penney came along with lots of ceramic slowly from just flour, water, salt and objects to paint and talked us through yeast, with no additives. Companion the process whilst making us roar with Breads believe that Real Bread laughter about anecdotes from her role fosters health and wellbeing, and also as a headteacher. A fun evening and we believe that honesty (with self as well all left with a piece of artwork in the shape as others) is the best way to move of gnomes, owls, mushrooms and bats. forwards towards a more positive and fulfilling life. Many members helped to knit and crochet Come along and hear their story. the poppies used in the Poppy Waterfall. Several members also used the bases of February 20th plastic bottles to create some amazing This will be a fundraising evening with a Blind Bag Auction. Sealed bags poppies in a different genre. We also containing new items you wish to helped provide tea and cake on the day. dispose of, a great way to get rid of those unwanted gifts! All visitors welcome at a cost of £4pp Look for us on Facebook under Wootton Beds Women’s including a cuppa and a biscuit or Institute. cake if you are lucky! Message us for any further information and somebody will Meetings start at 7-30pm in the endeavour to reply as quickly as Memorial Hall. possible.
32 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Wootton Baptist Church
lies. I expect it is to gain some temporary advantage, but to my way of thinking, it demeans a person.
The Bible is a book of truth. In Psalm 51 verse 6 God says, ‘I desire truth in the inner parts.’ And Isaiah 59: 14 speaks of a time when ‘truth has fallen in the streets.’ In other words, evil was prominent and truth had disappeared. I wonder if that is what is happening in our world today? It reminds me of the quote There seems to be one phrase which is in Proverbs 14: 34. ‘Righteousness exalts a frequently in the media these days. FAKE Nation and sin is a reproach to any people.’ NEWS. When I heard it for the first time, I thought, ‘how can there be such a thing as Its GOOD NEWS, not FAKE NEWS the world fake news?’ Either its news or its not news. needs today. That Good News can only come Then the media reported the alleged fake from the only one who said, ‘I am the truth.’ news in the American elections and the In a few weeks we shall be celebrating the attempts of one country to tell untruths birth of the man who said He was the Truth, about another. It seems now that there Jesus Christ. Christmas is a great time, but is no such thing as a fact or truth as we we need to remember that a few months understood it. after Christmas, comes Easter. It was GOOD NEWS for us, but bad news for Jesus as he I thought of the remark that Pilate made, died on a cross to make it possible for us to recorded in the Bible in John, chapter 18 be forgiven and to have eternal life. verse 38. when Jesus was being judged before his crucifixion. ‘What is truth? Pilate We wish you all a very Happy Christmas and asked, probably in a sarcastic manner. God’s blessing on us all in 2019. Jesus had said that He came into the world to tell the truth and that He was the Truth. Rob Stanton For the Fellowship at The recent reports of fake news, appear Wootton Baptist Church. to be trying to blur the difference between truth and a lie and fact and fiction. I must say that I don’t like liars. Sometimes it is quite obvious they are telling lies and it is not possible to trust a liar.
I prefer to rely on the words of Jesus in John 14, verse 6 where he says, ‘I am the Way the Truth and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me.’ That is the truth on which I can rely.
I don't understand Internation politics, they are too complicated for me. Neither can I understand why individuals tell blatant
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 33 WOOTTON NEW LIFE
METHODIST CHURCH Join us to celebrate Christmas Saturday 8th December 9.30am Deck the Halls Christmas crafts & breakfast ***** Friday 14th December 11.00am Cafe Carols in The Hub ***** Sunday 16th December 9.45am Nativity & Gift Service Join us for breakfast followed at 10.30am by our nativity & gift service featuring Steve the Juggler ***** Christmas Eve 7.00pm Carols by Candlelight ***** Christmas Day 10.00am Christmas Day Family Service at Kempston East Methodist Church ***** Cause End Road, Wootton. MK43 9FE woottonnewlife.org.uk
34 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 35 News from the Forest Our mission as a charity is to continue to create woodlands and plant trees, so this year we are launching a new campaign for everyone in the Forest. We’re running our first ever ‘Plant one on Us’ campaign – giving away free trees. Anybody can apply, and we’ll offer advice about which species would suit your garden, and how to plant and look after your tree. Details are on our website, www.marstonvale. Its winter, which means that tree planting org. season is upon us, and we’ve been very busy getting ready for a packed schedule this year!
As climate change moves its way to the top of many agendas, scientists and politicians alike are talking more loudly than ever about tree planting as a way of fighting it, and restoring land that’s been degraded.
Our work as a charity complements a global movement towards planting more To top off this fabulous season of tree trees, and creating more woodlands. planting, we’re working towards securing another piece of land for woodland We’re in the third year of our Defra-funded creation, this year in Wilstead. As soon as project to plant trees with school children, we have some definite news on this, we’ll and this year we have an almighty planting get everything ready for our big public project planned for the new Wootton tree plant in February, and we hope you’ll Lower School site, on Harris Way. We’ll be all be along to join us. Shuttle buses will planting over 1700 native trees, which will run from the Forest Centre to the planting provide so many benefits to the school. site, and we’ll have hot refreshments on The grounds will be shielded from the sale at the site on the day - so wrap up neighbouring development, and the trees warm, get your wellies on and be part of will provide shade when they grow (as creating the Forest! More details will be you can imagine after the summer we on our website after Christmas, so watch just had, trees on school grounds will be that space… very important if our summers get hotter). They will also provide homes for birds and If you’re interested in dedicating a tree in insects, which the children can investigate this new wood, please get in touch with us. and learn from. Some of the trees we’re For only £20 you can dedicate a tree in the planting have lifespans of hundreds of Forest for a loved one, with a personalised years, so the grounds will be improved for certificate, so they’ll know that a little bit of generations to come. the Forest has been planted for them.
36 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Community Speedwatch This has been a successful period for the Speedwatch team. Since August we have recorded only 5 vehicles travelling at speeds of 35mph and over with an average of 450 cars progressing towards the A421 on Fields Road between 7.45 and 8.45 a.m. I am greatly indebted to Keith Randell, Les Dick and Graham Ward who have helped me during this period.
We carry out one patrol per month for an hour at a time when schoolchildren Should you be interested in joining and their parents are moving up and the Speedwatch team, please get in down Fields Road. This seems to be touch with Jules Donel at the Police the most crucial time as far as the risk of Headquarters - accidents occurring is concerned, and the fact that so few vehicles have been Juliet.Donel bedfordshirepolice.pnn. caught speeding at this time means that @ police.uk we have been successful in slowing the traffic down. The police are certainly very - as there is a small amount of training pleased with our results! to be done before you can be part of the team. We are an expanding village Our SID (speed indicator device) is also and so a few more volunteers would be borrowed by Stewartby, Kempston and appreciated. Elstow from time to time and the Stewartby results have been quite alarming – nearly In the meantime keep driving safely 40% of motorists exceeding the speed through the village and have a wonderful limit during a one hour period! Christmas. We shall continue to carry out our monthly Malcolm Chalmers patrols along Fields Road until such time Community Speedwatch Co-ordinator as average speed cameras are installed (no one knows exactly when this will be).
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 37 38 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS Wootton Upper School Phone 01234 767123 Email [email protected]
Wootton Upper School, Hall End Road, Wootton, MK43 9HT
The High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Mr. Julian Polhill, with the cast of Grease at Wootton Upper School
The school has had a really fantastic term College for vocational courses in which started with great GCSE results construction, childcare and plumbing building on the successes of 2017. Once for example. We were delighted to again results in English, Mathematics welcome lots of this year group back to and Science were amongst the very best Wootton on November 22 to collect their across Bedfordshire and we have been GCSE certificates. This year we asked a visited by others so they can learn from former Wootton Upper School teacher, what it is we are doing. Mark Lehain to present their certificates and awards. After leaving Wootton, Mark We were really pleased that one of our became Head at Bedford Free School pupils got grade 9 in all his GCSEs. There and is now leading a national education were between 700 and 800 pupils who organization. managed this nationally and we have not read of anybody doing this in another local Also on November 22 the school was school. Most of the Year 11 pupils started presented with an award at a gala dinner at Kimberley College in September with for being one of the ten schools in the a smaller number choosing Bedford country with the highest proportion
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 39 of pupils completing the National Citizenship Award – a programme pupils follow immediately after finishing their GCSE examinations. We were delighted to be recognized for this achievement and similarly pleased to be one of nine schools in the country who were awarded the prestigious Secondary Geography Association Centre of Excellence Award. During the term we have held our first Duke of Edinburgh Awards Evening when around 50 to 60 pupils were presented with their bronze awards. Mr Richardson, former Head of PE, has done a wonderful job, in re-establishing Duke of Edinburgh at the school. We now have pupils working for silver and gold awards as well as a new cohort stating their bronze award.
As always the arts have featured Mrs Genders and Mrs Williamson, PE Department, with the scarecrow they created prominently at the school and four performances of Grease the Musical sold out very quickly in October. In November the performance went on tour to Bremen. Quite a lot of village residents came along to the show and the general consensus was that it was one of the best yet. None of us should ever take for granted the excellent facilities and staff the school has in Dance, Drama and Music. Our next major event is the Christmas Concert on Thursday December 13.
We have worked very hard to continue to develop our role within the Wootton village community and we were pleased to take part in the scarecrow competition and also to play a part in the village’s commemoration of the hundredth anniversary of the end of World War 1 including a poppy display. Over the next year, we will be opening a Peace Garden, outside the Library; this is another of The Salvador Dali scarecrow produced by Art our Lauren Chatley, Library Manager’s Club pupils and Art Department staff, innovative ideas. Mrs Wetherell, Mrs Willmott and Mr Smith
40 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS performance of Grease as well as through the sale of poppy and other memorabilia. We also had mufti days in ‘Jeans for Genes’ and Children in Need and a cake sale for the MacMillan Nurse charity.
During the term we said good bye to Mrs Sandra Powlette, teacher of Science and to two colleagues who have retired, Mrs Marion Death, who provided amazing support to lots of pupils in our Student Centre and also to Mr Colin Bolam, after twenty-seven years in the Design Field gun silhouette designed and made by Wootton Upper School as part of the Wootton Technology Department and more WWI commemoration display recently the Estates Team. We marked the retirement of both colleagues so we could both thank them and also wish them well in the future. At the end of term, we bid farewell to Mrs Alison Amatsah, teacher of Computing.
Before the end of term all of our pupils will visit St Mary’s Church for a Christmas Service, one of our many traditions. The last day of term for pupils is Wednesday December 19 and pupils return to school after the holiday on Thursday January 3. On behalf of directors, governors, staff and pupils may I offer you our very best Nadine Dorries, MP, adding a wreath to the wishes for Christmas and for 2019. remembrance display in the Library at Wootton Upper School Michael Gleeson
For many years we have held a two- minute silence on the nearest school day to Remembrance Day. This year we developed our practice in holding special assemblies where pupils and staff came together. Our collective thanks go to Reverend Peter Ackroyd for speaking at each of these assemblies and also to Chris Ashpole for representing the Royal British Legion.
Our fundraising this term has included the Poppy Day appeal where we held a mufti day, had collections after each
The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 41 42 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk The wootton PARISH NEWS The wootton PARISH NEWS www.facebook.com/WoottonParishCouncilBedfordshire 43
Wootton Academy Trust Christmas Concert
Thursday 13th December, 2018 Wootton Upper School Adults £5 Theatre Hall Concessions £3
7.3044 https://woottonpc.bedsparishes.gov.uk p.m. School Box Office: The wootton 01234 PARISH 767123 NEWS