SALVATION ARMY
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Belief in action
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That is the slogan which was used again for this year's Salvation Army Annual Appeal. I am sure by now you know that the Salvation Army is a modern Christian Church. The burning desire of the Salvation Army is to provide support wherever we encounter people in need. Our Christian belief is that we put our faith into action.
The Salvation Army provides, for example, a range of rehabilitation services for society's vulnerable people. People, whose lives have broken down for one reason or another perhaps by drugs, alcohol or homelessness. Our approach is to equip and empower people to overcome their individual problems, so helping them to become independent and fulfilled members of society. Over 10,000 people a week attend Salvation Army drop-in-centres. Thousands more are helped through very specific centres for those who are homeless for whatever reason.
A very special service the Salvation Army provides is the Family Tracing Service. Each year over 4,000 people re-establish contact with members of their family. This experience is often with positive life changing results.
Can I remind you that the Salvation Army is next to the Government, the biggest provider of Social Services in the UK?
This year we wish to thank the people of Shefford for giving the Salvation Army £718.55 a grand amount which will go to support the social work of the Salvation Army.
If you were out when we called and would like to contribute to this work you can send your donation to: The Salvation Army, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN. You can find out more about our work by visiting our website.
Thank you and God bless you
David Roberts
On behalf of the Salvation Army
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SHEFFORD BOWLS CLUB
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The Bowls Club has just finished for another season.
The Club was formed in 1965 and now has 39 male and 21 female members.
They have three Men's sides that play in the East Beds League and two Ladies sides also compete in the league. The Club plays numerous friendlies over the weekends.
The Club holds various Social Events over the season, varying from Quiz Nights to Race Nights. Wednesday evenings see the Club coach Ralph Archer giving coaching sessions to new bowlers. We are always on the lookout for new bowlers of any age; especially young people who wish to take up the game.
Any interested in joining should contact the chairman: John Batcheldor on 01462 - 628426.
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TOWN MAYOR'S COMMENTS
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CYRIL WHITE
To start with a sad note. Cyril White recently passed away in his sleep. There have been many sincere tributes to Cyril over the last few weeks and I can add very little, other than to say Cyril was a true hero and a highly valued member of our community. He will be sadly missed and our thoughts are with his family.
SUMMER GALA 2007
The Summer Gala 2007 team are getting into gear for next years gala. As usual there is a need for people to help with the detailed planning, administration and on the actual day. Last years' gala was a terrific success it was also a lot of hard work for the few members of the organising team. So if you think that you can help in any way, administration, planning, scrounging, (sorry, collecting raffle prizes), supervising, new ideas, anything at all please contact the Town Clerk on 01462 816321 or Martin Wren on 01462 816586 or me via mayor@sheffordtown.co.uk. We will be very grateful for your help.
CONDITION OF ROADS AND PATHS
Recently the Deputy Mayor and I spent the afternoon with Basil Jackson, of the County Council Highways Dept., touring some of the sites in town where the condition of roads and paths are giving us cause for concern. We looked at the cracked and damaged road surface in North Bridge Street, the poorly sited crossing in Bedford Road, the dangerous bends in Stanford Road, the weeds growing out of every nook and cranny of every footpath in the town, the problems that will be caused by the additional traffic coming form the gravel extraction at Broom, the problems caused by inconsiderate parking in Clifton Road and so on. We even talked about the problems caused by the amount of parking in Ivel Road, not helped by poor planning decisions by Mid Beds Council.
He was appalled by the condition of some repair work that had been carried out, he agreed that considerable investment was needed to get our roads up to standard. He has promised that a Traffic Survey' will be carried out as soon as possible. The survey would look at all aspects of traffic within the town including signage, parking restrictions and road improvement.
Of course it all comes down to MONEY and he only has a limited budget. Yes, ok, it sounds like the Same Old Stuff, but he certainly has first hand experience of many of our problems; so let's see how he performs!
He did get the Churchill Way safety barrier job upgraded to 'must be done now' and he has promised some additional road markings to highlight the dangerous bend. I should add that part of the finance for this work was provided by the developer, Wheatly Homes. At least now we have a degree of safety for those using the play area. He also promised that Churchill Way would be on the winter gritting schedule this year.
Paul Mackin
Town Mayor
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THANK YOU
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Iris Andrews would like to thank the residents of Queen Elizabeth Close for contributing the sum of £51.00 to the McMillan Nurses Cancer envelopes.
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REGULAR MEETINGS
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S.T.M.A.
Hitchin Road (entrance opposite Woolpack Public House) Telephone 01462-815495
Royal British Legion - 2nd Monday of the Month (except June & August) 8.00pm
Shokotan Karate - Monday 6 - 7pm - contact Sensei Gabriel Tan - 01462 730551
Belly Dancing - Monday 7.30 - 8.45pm - contact Georgina on 07879 822885 email: georgina.howson@tiscali.co.uk
Majorettes - Tuesday 7pm and 8.30pm - contact Paulette on 629646
Taekwondo - Wednesday 7.30pm - 9.30pm, Friday 7pm - 9pm. Contact Phillip Bartlette on 07766880016 or 01462 850874
1st Shefford Brownies Thursday 6pm - 7.15pm
Vintage Motorcycle Club - 2nd Thursday of the month
METHODIST CHURCH HALL
Ampthill Road (near Ford garage)
Acorn Pre School Playgroup Monday - 9.15am -11.45am & 12.45pm - 3.15pm;
Tuesday 9.15am - 11.45am; Wednesday 9am - 11.30am & 12.45pm - 3.15pm; Thursday 9.15am - 11.45am term time only. Pre-school mobile no: 07747 496284 during session time. Contact Gill Berry 01462 629237 for details of viewing and waiting list
Merry-Go-Round A group for play for pre school children and babies with special needs. Tuesday
1pm - 3.00pm Wednesday and Friday 10am - 12 noon.
Parent and Toddler Group - Thursday 1.30pm - 3.15pm contact Beth 01462 623745
Town Band Practice - Thursday 7.45pm - 9.45pm - contact Mrs J Steinfeld on 01462 629026
METHODIST CHURCH
Ampthill Road Contact Phil on 01462 813284 or visit www.sheffordmethodist.org.uk
Sunday Services - 9.30am (creche) - 6.00pm 3rd Sunday in month Holy Communion
Junior Church - 9.30am Sunday
All age worship - 9.30am - 3rd Sunday of every month
2nd Shefford Brownies - Wednesday 6.00pm - 7.15pm
Guides - Thursday 7.00pm - 8.30pm
"Pressing on" - fellowship and bible study group, Monday evenings fortnightly - phone for details
Afternoon Fellowship - a variety of meetings with a devotional element and the all important cup of tea!
COMMUNITY HALL
(formerly St Michael's Church Hall)
W.I. - 3rd Tuesday of the month 7.30pm
Civil Service Retirement Fellowship - 3rd Tuesday of the month 10.00a.m.
Over 60's Coffee Morning club - Wednesday 10.15am - 11.15am
Shefford & District Amateur Radio Society -Thursday 8pm
Line Dancing- Wednesday 7.30pm - 8.30pm. Beginners contact Rosemarie on 01767 600268 or
www.sheffordlinedancendo.co.uk
Lunch Club - Monday 12.00pm - contact Pat on 01462 812796
Art Society - 2nd Wednesday of the month, 7.30pm - 9.30pm. Details Dianne Carr 01462 700422
SHEFFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
(at junction of Stanford and Bedford Roads) Contact Steve on 812564 or visit www.sheffordbaptist.org.uk
Sunday Services -10.30am & 6pm Junior church & Creche in mornings.
All-age service -10.30am 4th Sunday of every month.
Men's Breakfast Club - Last Saturday each month 8.30am
Thursday Afternoon Fellowship - 2nd Thursday 2.00pm, devotional time, shared along with tea and cakes
Springboard Youth Group - Every Friday for Middle School young people (Years 6-9) Term time
only
ST MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS CHURCH
High Street
Contact John Harper (vicar) on 813334 or Jenny Dann (Reader) on 817337 or visit www.sm3a.org.uk
Sunday Services -
1st Sunday 8.30 a.m. Holy Communion, 9.45 a.m. Morning Prayer
2nd Sunday 9.45 a.m. Family Communion and Messengers (for 3-9's), 6.00p.m. 'Second Sunday at Six', informal worship with tea and cakes from 5 p.m.
3rd Sunday 9.45 a.m. Family Communion and Messengers (for 3-9's)
4th Sunday 9.45 a.m.Family Service, 6.00 p.m.Holy Communion
5th Sunday United Family Communion alternates between St Michael's (9.45 a.m. with breakfast before) and sister Church of St Mary's Meppershall (11.15 a.m. followed by refreshmants or buffet lunch) Next - April 30th 11.15 a.m.at St Mary's.
Tuesdays - 9.30 a.m. morning prayer,10.30am - 12 noon Coffee Shop (Biggleswade Adult Centre) - also listeners available for those needing someone to talk to.
1st Tuesday of the month 2.30 p.m. Tuesday afternoon Group (ecumenical fellowship)
Wednesdays - 1st & 3rd Mini M's. Worship and fun for 0-4's with parents/minders.
Fridays - 9.50am Service. Tea/coffee from 10.35am - prayer ministry available. Traidcraft stall on
last Friday of month.
ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH
25 High Street Shefford
Contact Fr. Bennie Noonan 813436 or Parish Secretary - Rose 811547
Sunday Mass - 9.00a.m. & 5.15 p.m.
Holy days of Obligation - 9.30 a.m. & 7.30 p.m.
Weekday Services - see notice at Church
TOWN MEETING ROOM
Ladies Group - Meetings held fortnightly on Wednesday evenings.
Alzheimer's Carers Group - 3rd Thursday of each month between 11am to 12.30pm
Finger's Crossed Cross Stitch Club - 3rd Thursday of each month - 7.30pm to 9.30pm
OTHER MEETINGS
Union of Catholic Mothers - 2nd & 4thTuesday of the month. Angela Room (rear of Catholic
Church)
Mothers' Union - 1st Tuesday of the month 2.30pm., Church Room, St. Michael's Church
Bible Study Group - 2nd Monday of the month (except August) see Diary for venue
Line Dancing - Thursday 6.30pm -7.30pm Beginners, 7.30pm - 9.30pm Intermediates. Friday
6.30pm - 7.45pm Improvers/Intermediates, 7.45pm - 10pm Intermediates/Advanced. Bloomfield
Middle School. Contact Rosemary on 01767 600268 or www.sheffordlnedancendo.co.uk
Southill Toddler Group - Thursday weekly (term time) 9.30am - 11.30am Southill Parish Hall - contact 0794 653 7263
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SHEFFORD SCHOOL OF SHOTOKAN KARATE (SSSK)
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What is Karate?
SSSK is a Karate School opened early this year at the Shefford Town Memorial Hall to promote and encourage kids to become more active by engaging in the learning of the world renowned oriental martial art called Shotokan Karate. Already the school has attracted many young children age ranging from 6 to 14 years old.
So what exactly is Karate? Karate is the practice and development of blocking and striking techniques for the purpose of self-defence, health and self-development within a specified code of behaviour allied to particular oriental cultural practices. Movements are short, sharp and linear, with blocks being used to ward off an attack, followed by counter attacks to discourage further aggression. Besides being an excellent form of self-defence, karate is also a thrilling competitive sport. Regular training in karate not only improves the body's physical stamina and suppleness, but also produces the mental calm and assurance that comes from knowing that you can defend yourself.
Children and Karate
Self Confidence
Karate is without doubt one of the best means of building self-confidence. Traditional karate training helps to prepare a child for life (the school bully, pressure of exams and most importantly the building of self-esteem). The children in karate classes know that more is expected of them and with a little encouragement and support from their instructor and parents will rise to the occasion. A child's school achievement often improves after a period of karate training probably because of improved self-confidence and enhanced concentration.
An aggressive child may be calmed by the discipline of training and karate's emphasis on self-control.
For one's Etiquette
Children are taught from the outset that karate is to be used for defensive purposes and are reminded never to use their fighting skills outside the dojo (training hall) except in cases of extreme provocation and then only in self-defence. During the first few weeks of their training, children learn basic etiquette. Emphasis is placed on politeness and respect for their fellow students, instructor and parents. They soon become aware that good manners consist of having consideration for others.
For one's Discipline
Children react to discipline very well and once disciplined for a short period, are encouraged to develop self-discipline. Concentration can be enhanced as they focus their minds on the job in hand, whether it be learing a complicated sequence of movements in karate or sitting an exam at school. Many parents notice a marked improvement in their child's powers of concentration once their karate training has commenced.
Karate for Life
Armed with their karate skills, self-control, self-esteem and respect for others, these children grow into fine young people, well equipped physically and mentally to deal with the rigours of modern life in our harsh world. These adults of tomorrow will be fine citizens and contribute much to the society in which they live and work.
If your children are interested in joining the club, just pop in or contact Sensei Gabriel Tan on 730551 Email: info@.sheffordkarate.co.uk. They offer FREE introductory lesson.
Shefford venue: The Town Memorial Hall (near the Police Station), Hitchin Rd, Shefford, every Monday 6-7pm. Stofold venue: The Memorial Hall, Hallworth Drive, Stotfold, every Sunday 5 - 6pm for juniors and 6-7pm for adults, www.sheffordkarate.co.uk
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SHEFFORD LIBRARY
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Library Manager: Carol Forse
Come along to Shefford Library in the High Street, Shefford. You'll be amazed at what we have to offer!! There really is "something for everyone!"
Our Stock includes:-
Books - Fiction and Non-Fiction
Music CDs
DVDs
Local Studies books
Local Parish Records
Reference Books
For adult, young adults and children/
Videos
Spoken Word stories (ideal in the car!)
Large Print versions of many titles
Local Information
Our Facilities include:-
Six computers with internet access in main Library
Additional 2 computers with internet access in Children's Library
1 Computer without internet access but with word processing and also a variety of Family
History CD roms
Photocopier
Fax machine
Microfiche Reader and I.G.I. (International Genealogical Index)
Our Regular Activities include:-
Storytime for Under 5s - weekly at 2.30pm on Mondays (term time)
Children's Activity and Craft Mornings
"Chatterbooks"monthly Reading Group for 8-12 year olds
"Silver Surfer" one-to-one computer taster sessions - for "the terrified!"
Reading Groups for people who like to meet and chat about what they've read
Councillor's Surgeries - both County Councillors and Mid-Beds Councillor
Evening Events eg author visit, talks, Quiz, Family History etc
Do you know about out Housebound Readers Service?
Do you have problems getting to the Library because of health or age difficulties? Do you know someone in this situation? Then talk to us!! We can select books and other items for collection by family or friends, or can even arrange for someone to deliver them to your home.
Do you know how to join the Library?
Joining the Library is very simple - and absolutely FREE!! To apply for full membership you will need to show two documents to prove who you are. One must show your current address, and the other just needs to show your name and signature.
Just visiting? Just moved in? No problem! Don't worry if you don't have any proofs of identification - an Instant Ticket will enable you to borrow a limited selection of items immediately and also to use the computers.
Did you know?
You can renew your books even when we are closed! If you have a library card and a pin number (available from the Library) you can renew your books until midnight by phoning our Callpoint Service on 01234 228930. Or you can renew or reserve items online 24 hours a day via our Virtual Library.
Virtual Library
It's just like having your very own library service on-line! Check it out at www.bedfordshire.gov.uk and select "Libraries" from the menu. Using your Library Card and pin number (available from the Library) you can access a wealth of information: about YOU (what you have on loan, when the items are due back), our STOCK which can be accessed on our catalogue and reserved by you for collection at whatever library you choose and GENERAL INFORMATION including local and community information, family history, reading lists, homework help and fun for our younger customers. Lots more too -just log on and read on .....!
What's Coming?
We always publicise our special events in the Biggleswade Chronicle and also in the glass-fronted cabinets in the entrance to the Library.
If you haven't already found us, then come along and meet us! We're a friendly bunch who are always willing to assist or answer your questions ..... if we don't know the answer, we'll know someone who does!!
Shefford Library is in the High Street, Shefford
Telephone 01462 639070
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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MK Energy Agency was created in 1998 by Milton Keynes Council and National Energy Foundation and works in partnership with local authorities across Bucks, E Berks, Beds and Herts. We believe that by providing impartial advice on using energy more efficiently, we will maintain or improve quality of life and protect the environment.
High energy costs could cause a surge in cold related illnesses
Domestic energy prices ballooned dramatically in the past twelve months to August 2006 - gas by up to 35%, electricity by 25%. Inevitably this will tip many low income residents into 'fuel poverty' -the stressful situation where they can not afford to adequately heat their homes.
Help is, however, available. Much can be done to improve the comfort of individuals at risk by making sure that their home is fully insulated (eg. 10.5" loft insulation), has a working heating system and is free from draughts.
Homeowners and private tenants can all take advantage of discounted insulation. Those in receipt of certain government benefits may also be able to access 100% grants for cavity wall insulation and loft top-ups, plus a Warm Front grant of up to £2700 to replace a faulty heating system.
For more information, please call the Energy Efficiency Advice Centre on 0800 512 012
Gordon Glass
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HOSPICE AT HOME VOLUNTEERS
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VOLUNTEERS URGENTLY REQUIRED
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What do our volunteers do?
The volunteers visit, give practical help where needed and become a supporting friend during a life threatening illness and, if required, beyond.
The volunteers aim to compliment the statutory services such as Community Nurses, Macmillan Nurses, Social Workers, Hospices and Home Carers to support the person needing care and their family, but usually does not exceed three hours per week.
Who are our volunteers?
Caring people who may have experienced the need for help and support themselves. All volunteers are carefully selected, trained and managed by our Volunteer Manager. All volunteers are able to claim travelling expenses incurred whilst working with us.
If you would like to join our team of volunteers please call Sonia Banks for further information on 01234743063
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ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI RC CHURCH
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St Francis of Assisi RC Church is holding a Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, November 25th at the Methodist Church Hall from 10am. Festive stalls and seasonal gifts will be on offer. One of the many prizes in the Festive Raffle will be four tickets to see a top London West End musical. Tickets for the draw will be on sale shortly and available on the day. The draw will take place at 1pm on Saturday, November 25th.
Colin Veitch
Bazaar Organiser
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SHEFFORD OVER 60's COFFEE MORNING CLUB
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The latest outing to the new Turners venue at Wicksteed Park was a huge success, with many calling for a return visit. Even better than the old Northampton site many said.
The Annual Fish 'n' Chips Luncheon was again applauded, with thanks to the many volunteers who helped on the day and the organising team.
The Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 1st with activities planned for another exciting year. On November 8th we again do our bit for the Cancer Appeals with a Bring and buy sale, to which others in the community are invited.
More members are also joining us to keep the tradition and enthusiasm alive, including a couple of dashing (60+) men!
Our meetings are held on Wednesday mornings from 10am at the Community Hall, which has been improved immeasurably over the last couple of years, with even more promised soon.
For details of the club please call 01462 813081, or just pop in to one of our gatherings, where there is always a warm welcome.
Dave Jordan
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SHEFFORD MAJORETTES
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Shefford majorettes have started the new term and displayed successfully at St Andrews Fete in Biggleswade and also collected their trophy for 'Best Majorettes' at the Bedford River Festival.
Whilst the girls practice their baton skills they are also looking forward to their Christmas party at the beginning of December.
The troop is seeking new recruits, particularly older girls aged 8-9 and upwards. Anyone interested in joining or who would like further information may contact Paulette Biggs on 01462 629646 or email paul.curlyend@ntlworld.com
We meet on Tuesday evenings at 7pm at the Memorial Hall, (STMA) Hitchin Road.
The troop is also now taking bookings for the 2007 display season and interested parties may once again contact the above number.
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CHURCH NEWS
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Winter is upon us and sometimes with the dark nights, things can feel a bit bleak, but through the Shefford churches we want to offer a variety of opportunities to explore where faith can bring hope especially as we prepare for Christmas which is about celebrating light in a dark world.
To help in this we have listed the various events as they happen in the run-up to Christmas. To find out more please use the contact numbers.
November
Wednesday 1st
8p.m. 'Angels',
weekly course running until Wed. 29th in the Meeting Room 8p.m. at St. Michael & All Angels. Details 817337
Monday 13th
7.30p.m.The Alpha course, starting @ Shefford Baptist Church, a course run by Shefford churches working together, providing a basic introduction to the Christian faith, with an opportunity for a meal together, discussion & questions. For further details, contact the course administrator Phil Vass on 626101
Wednesday 22nd
8p.m. Creative evening - @ Shefford Baptist Church, taking pottery and painting and stencilling designs either for yourself, or for gifts, details 811253
Saturday 26th
8.30a.m. Men's Breakfast - Come and enjoy a good full breakfast, in good company @ Shefford Baptist Church
December
Saturday 2nd
10a.m. - 12noon - Christmas activity morning @ Shefford Baptist Church. A morning for Lower School aged children. Details 811253
Sunday 3rd
9:30am - Toy & Gift Service - a family service @ Shefford Methodist Church
10.30a.m. Gift service - with focus on work of Spurgeons Child Care @ Shefford Baptist Church
6p.m. Christingle service for Advent - @ St Mary's Meppershall
Tuesday 5th
Advent Supper @ Shefford Community Hall. Details 813334
Saturday/Sunday 9th/10th
Christmas Tree festival @ St Michael & All Angels- open to all Shefford groups. Details 815689
Sunday 10th
5p.m. Christmas Tree Festival service - St Michael & All Angels
Sunday 17th
4p.m. Christmas Party, fun for all the family @ Shefford Baptist Church followed by
6p.m. Carols by Candle-light
6p.m Carols by Candle-light - @ Shefford Methodist Church
Monday 18th
7.30p.m. Town Carol Service @ St Michael & All Angels with Shefford Town Band
Wednesday 20th
7p.m. Nativity play (adult cast) - Everyone welcome @ St. Mary's Meppershall
Sunday 24th Christmas Eve
10.30a.m. Christmas Celebration, organised by the children & young people @
Shefford Baptist Church
2.30p.m. Nativity Family service @ St. Michael & All Angels
4p.m. & 6p.m. - Christingle service - Come to either of these popular family
services @ Shefford Methodist Church
11.15p.m. Midnight Communion @ St Michael & All Angels
9:30am - Christmas morning celebration @ Shefford Methodist Church - bring a
present to show
9.30a.m. - Christmas Day worship @ Shefford Baptist Church
9.45a.m. Christmas Family Communion @ St. Michael & All Angels
Sunday 31st. New Year's Eve
9a.m. - Feast on Five @ St. Michael & All Angels, followed by:
9.45a.m. United Family Communion with St Mary Meppershall
10.30am - New Year's Eve Morning Worship @ Shefford Baptist Church
So, on behalf of the Shefford Churches, may we wish you a Happy Christmas & a peaceful New Year.
For further details then contact:
Rev John Harper (St. Michaels, Shefford & St Mary's Meppershall) 813 334
Fr Bennie Noonan (St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church) 813436
Rev Phil Snelson (Shefford Methodist) 813 284
Rev Steve Summer-field (Shefford Baptist) 812564
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LETCHWORTH MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY
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For those interested in model railways, the society is holding their 22nd Model railway Exhibition at Etonbury Middle School Arlesey on Saturday, November 25 from 10am to 4.30pm. There will be over 18 layouts plus trade stands, most gauges and scales represented. Snacks and drinks available, free parking.
Adults £3.50 (senior citizens £2), under 14's £1.50, family tickets £9, under 4's free.
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NEWS FROM AGATE HOUSE
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We are greatly appreciative of the wonderful, kind donations of harvest produce we have received from our many kind friends.
Again we have all been very fortunate to be able to look at all the beautiful colours and admire the range of gifts. Thanks to everyone for their kindness.
It's that wonderful time of the year where we sit back and reflect upon all the joys and pleasures that summer and the first part of the year brought us - we look forward to the nights drawing in and Christmas just around the corner. Trips out for Christmas shopping are already planned as residents and their keyworkers aim to get to the shops before the hectic rush. We can then sit back happy in the knowledge we're ahead! Jeff and all of us remain enormously touched and pleased with your kind and very generous donations made to the home and thank you all most sincerely. Certainly Jeff increases his sales as Christmas approaches and we have many 'happy shoppers'.
We frequently seem to be asking for help and we do need lots of volunteers as you know by now, with many of the everyday tasks and activities with which the residents are involved. So, why not think about joining us as a volunteer - give us a ring. However, we do want to say how grateful we are to those who have and do come along to see us, helping and supporting in the life of Agate House. Without you, so very few of the extras and the little things that make life go with a zing would be achieved. So heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you. Long may our friendships continue.
Our Christmas Bazaar is coming up on Saturday November 18th from 10.30am to 2.30pm (stop for lunch - ploughmans and soup available). Do come along and support your local Cheshire Home.
Our warmest good wishes to you all.
Judith Hagger
Volunteer coordinator/Fundraising Tel 01525 403247
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COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTARY SERVICE
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Mid & North Bedfordshire (CVS - Mid & North Beds) is a voluntary organisation that supports, promotes and develops local voluntary and community action in Mid & North Beds. It was formed from the merger of Mid Beds Council for Voluntary Service, North Beds Council for Voluntary Service and Bedfordshire Funding Advice Bureau. CVS - Mid & North Beds support local voluntary and community groups by providing them with a range of services which includes:
•Support, advice and training opportunities for new and existing groups to help them
sustain and develop healthy organisations.
•Funding advice to identify and approach the right funders with the right activities.
•Practical support in the form of cheap meeting/training rooms, equipment hire
and photocopying.
•Information and networking opportunities through mailings, events
and meetings throughout the year.
CVS also represents the sector at a wider range of meetings and encourages partnership working.
Website: www.cvsmidandnorthbeds.org.uk
Email: info@cvsmidandnorthbeds.org.uk
43 Bromham Road, Bedford, MK40 2AA. Telephone 01234 354366
The Volunteer Centre Bedford - covers both Mid and North Bedfordshire and can assist you if you are looking to volunteer or if your organisation requires volunteers, in the following ways:
•Volunteering Opportunities: by signposting you to Volunteering Opportunities
with volunteer - involving organisations throughout the area.
•Volunteers required by your organisation : if your organisation requires volunteers.
We can publicise your needs via websites, newsletters, posters and regular mailings.
Website: www.bedfordvb.org.uk
43 Bromham Road Bedford MK40 2AA Telephone 01234 213100
Mark Smith
Rural & Development Officer
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SHEFFORD CRAFT AND PRODUCE SHOW
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The 2006 show is over and the committee would like to thank everyone who helped or supported the show in any way. The number of entries was down this year, but it was still a very successful day.
The beginning of October will see us starting arrangements for the 2007 show and we hope you will support us at this annual event.
Thank you all for your support.
Joyce Davis
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COMMUNITY SAFETY GROUP
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VANDALISM.
We seem to have an outbreak of vandalism again. Nearly every week or weekend results in reports of mindless damage caused by nasty children and drunken youths. I know it has been reported in the press that it is unkind to call these people yobs as it
upsets them, tough! until a more descriptive name is allocated to them, they're YOBS.
Suggestions of how to deal with these yobs have varied between sitting them down and talking to them and explaining how much their behaviour costs the community in money and resource to running a zero tolerance scheme and introducing them to detention programmes at an early stage.
There are problems with either of these extremes, but something has to done.
In order to get a true picture of the level of vandalism in our community we need you to report all cases of vandalism, malicious damage, nuisance, littering and drunken behaviour. Please call the Police Control Room on 01234 841212 and report the incident, insist on being given a Unique Reference Number (URN) for the call. It may well be that the police don't respond, there are so few of them that they have to prioritise their attendances, but at least the incident has been reported and recorded. Remember, NO URN, IT DIDN'T HAPPEN!
We must push the authorities to deal with these incidents; it would be very wrong and dangerous for members of the community to take vigilante action.
REFLECTIVE ARM BANDS
As Newsline goes to press the evenings and mornings are getting darker. Fortunately the weather has been good so far; however the dark, wet overcast journey to and from school are not far away. The Shefford Community Safety Group has placed an order for a quantity of high visibility arm bands for our younger community members. The armbands will be distributed to children attending the Shefford Lower School. Funding for the armbands comes from the Mid Beds District Council Community Safety Group.
LOOK OUT FOR NEIGHBOURS
As we move into the colder weather it is even more important to look out for the welfare of the older members of our community. Please be aware of people living near to you who may need that little extra help during cold weather. It may be they need a hand dealing with clearing ice and snow from their pathways, making sure they keep warm in their house or just a little help with collecting shopping.
KEEP YOUR CHIMNEYS CLEAN
There are less and less houses with open fires and chimneys these days but each year there are still a number of chimney fires. Despite the fact that the fire is usually contained in the actual chimney, it is a fire that is out of control and it does have the potential to cause damage to the chimney itself and to the house and given the worst case scenario risk to life.
The answer is to keep chimneys clean have them swept twice a year, particularly if you burn wood as a main fuel.
If you have a chimney fire, report it. Call 999. Don't hesitate.
Contrary to some tales, it is free. The Fire Service do not charge to attend chimney fires.
Paul F J Mackin
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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
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FOR DIARY DATES SEE MAIN WEBSITE DIARY PAGE
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If your group or organisation hold regular meetings or has future events that you wish to advertise in the Diary, please send details to me at the address below.
COPY
All copy to be considered for inclusion in the SPRING 2007 issue of Newsline should reach me, Jennifer Harrison,
4, New Street Shefford SG17 5BW. Tel 01462 814946, email bryjen3@aol.com by 4th JANUARY 2007 for FEBRUARY
publication.
Advertising
For advertising enquiries and rates, please contact Paul Mackin Tel.01462 628860 for further details.
Disclaimer
Diary information is as accurate as possible at the time of going to press. The editor accepts no responsibility for
inaccuracies or omissions. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor.
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