Newsline Spring 2007

Christmas and the New Year are now over, by the time you read this it will be time to prepare for the summer holidays. These days it seems as though immediately one event is over we have to rush about to get ready for the next.
Town Councillors can also look forward to a busy year. We have the usual monthly meetings to ensure that all the regular maintenance jobs are done, planning applications are processed in due time, play equipment is repaired and in a safe condition, grass is cut and so on. Now that Mid Beds District Council has decided that they no longer wish to provide public toilets in the town we have the task of ensuring that they are cleaned and kept in a safe condition. Over the last couple of months the Town Council has paid for a contractor to clear the weeds and rubbish from the footpaths in the town and what a super job he has done. We took the decision to pay for this work to be done as we felt the County Council Highways Department had failed miserably in their duty to keep the street clear of weeds. It is our intention to continue with the clearance of weeds from the footpaths of the town. We will be asking the County Council to keep their contractors away from the town centre and pay us a 'contribution' towards, or costs, for providing the service. They did have a contractor spray the weeds once very late in the year but you may have missed him as he sped around the town steering his quad bike with one hand while spraying the weeds with the other. I'm afraid it's a case of 'if you want a job doing well, do it your self.
Following on with the topic of poor service, we need to keep pressure on the County Council Highways Department to get our roads and paths up to a safe standard structurally. They have pledged to get ALL the roads in the county up to standard within 5 years; they are now nearly 2 years into the 5. We have had several conversations and 'ping pong' letters on the subject of the poor and dangerous condition of the roads in our community. Not doing very well are they? They tell us that in Shefford we have 1% of the roads in the county and we have had a disproportionate amount of money spent on our 1% to bring them up to standard, so stop moaning, of course we won't.
The one fact that we will agree on is that they do not get a sufficient budget from the County Council to do everything that is required. The trouble is we are facing the same problem that occurred with the country's rail network. If insufficient maintenance is carried out over a number of years, it does not take long for the system to become 'beyond repair'.
We also need to keep pressure on Anglian Water Services, the company responsible for sewage disposal. It would seem that when it comes to forward planning being proactive is not one of the things they can do. That's why the sewage system went out of its 'use by ' date some 30 years ago and probably will not be upgraded for at least another 10 years. They can't even tell our local authority 'planners' that the system is overloaded, don't build any more houses. They are required to connect new housing developments to the main sewer, regardless of whether it is big enough to take the additional load or not. Hence the problems we have in Stanford Road, Ampthill Road and several other places in town. It can only get worse as more load is put onto the system.
It would also appear that if a 'developer' builds a sewage pumping station that does not come up to the AWS standard they are not obliged to adopt it. It could even mean that the residents connected to it will have to share the cost of upgrading it to get it adopted by the sewage undertaking. That's a bit scary when you think of the possible cost divided between a dozen or so houses.
Late last year we managed to get some engineers from the AWS to come and talk with us about the problems that we have in the town. They have promised to report back to us, before the Town Meeting, on the results of a survey of the drainage system. We wait with baited breath. Let me guess what the result will be.....................will insufficient finance be involved?
At long last the Town Council has signed the contract to part fund the cost of an additional Police Community Support Officer. The majority of the cost of the officer is being provided via government grants, we contribute 25% of the wage cost. The Police Service pays for equipment and training.
While this PCSO will be 'ours' in as much as he or she will be assigned solely to Shefford and we will have a 'say' in the tasking of the officer they will still be under the control and supervision of the Police Beat Manager. Our PCSO could be borrowed, should the need arise, by an adjoining beat area. However we will be able to 'borrow' other PCSO's should events dictate that we need extra officer cover, Charter Fair night for example. By the time you read this article 'our' PCSO should be trained and on the beat.
The other exciting event for us will be the Local Authority Elections. These will be held on May 3rd. Both District and Town Councillors will be up for election. Unlike our 'District' cousins we are not allowed to canvas for votes in quite the same way, so Town Councillors won't be banging on your door asking if we can count on your vote. However we do need your votes. We also need community members to come forward and seek election to the Town Council. What would you do different to the existing council? Can you do it better? Contact Mid Beds District council for the necessary forms and have a go.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED
Volunteers are still required to assist with the Summer Gala and Parade. Will anybody who can spend some time with planning the events and/or actually on the day, please contact Martin Wren or the Town Clerk. We want the event to be a success and volunteers are needed to run the event.

Paul Mackin
Town Mayor

EDITORIAL
Our cover photo was taken by Town Mayor, Paul Mackin, when he attended the end of term assembly to present the children with the reflective arm bands. The photo shows members of staff entertaining the children, much to the delight of children and visitors alike. The occasion was also tinged with sadness as it also marked the retirement, after twenty years teaching at the school, of Mrs J Plumley. Many in the community will remember being taught by her and like to wish her a long and happy retirement. A resident contacted me recently to ask me if I could remind people who are bus pass holders that the scheme does allow holders of these passes to travel, free of charge, to and from the Lister Hospital, although the journey does go out of the area. Recently the resident was charged for the journey and complained to the bus company whose attitude was less than helpful. This was a matter of principle, not cost so he enlisted the help of MP Nadine Dorries who took the matter up with the company. The outcome was a letter of apology from the company and a refund of his fare. Their excuse was that, because of the complexities of the schemes, drivers not regularly on that route are not always aware of the exemption. There are those who would not be able to visit loved ones in hospital without the help of these concessions so it is important that these are maintained. If you have a similar problem, then do challenge it. If you wish to travel into Stevenage, then normal charges do apply from Hitchin. If you have a problem with late delivery of your Newsline or know someone living in Shefford who does not get a copy, please let Town Clerk, Mr G Barham on 01462 816321 or me on 01462 814946 know please. Jennifer Harrison
SHEFFORD FIREWORK APPEAL
Thanks to the excellent weather we had another very successful bonfire and fireworks on 4th November last year. As was very apparent at the time we have had to make some major changes to the event for safety and insurance reasons. The free sparklers have had to go and free glo sticks given out in their place. Not the same but much safer. The fireworks are now set further back from the public viewing area which we hope did not affect the display too much. The bonfire is positioned differently and a little smaller. All these alterations make the difference when the insurance bill arrives. This insurance problem has affected many other displays in the area and almost put a stop to our last year's display. This year we are sorry to be losing Colin and Pat Roffey, founder members of the Firework Appeal and have put in so much effort and time in to the appeal over the years since we started. Their energy and commitment will be greatly missed. We have again given some of the proceeds from last year's event to local good causes and hope to for years to come. The insurance problem will be an issue again this year but hopefully we can overcome the cost and put on another display for the residents of Shefford. Marcus Birleson Committee Member Committee Member
P3 NEWS
As it is now fourteen years since P3 was launched in Bedfordshire I felt that some readers may like a little bit of clarification as to what it is and what it does. The initials P3 stand for Parish Paths Partnership and it is about enjoying the countryside. It is a partnership between Bedfordshire County Council and those parishes who wished to join the scheme. It has two main aims: • to improve and promote the public rights of way network • to enhance the local countryside for wider community use. It encourages you to become involved with footpaths, bridleways, hedges, trees, stiles, gates - everything in fact to do with the public rights of way. For example the Shefford Group has been responsible for writing and producing the set of walks leaflets and the walks map outside the Town Meeting Room. Our group is open to anyone to join and you can do as much or as little as you want in order to improve and promote the paths and surrounding countryside in our parish. Training courses are organized for you to attend in a wide variety of topics including: • safe working practices and first aid • strimmer training • hedgerows history and management • history of mapping • design of leaflets • social events are also run throughout the county. During the year I try to keep you up to date with our latest projects through this newsletter and dates of planned working parties are in the Shefford news in the Biggleswade Chronicle. If you would like to be involved in our local group do give me a ring on 01462 811228. It is worthwhile, good fun and exercise - and it is also free! Enjoy our footpaths. Clark McGregor Chairman P3 Group
SHEFFORD CHRISTMAS LIGHTS COMMITTEE
What an excellent night on 2nd December for the Switch On. People turned out in their hundreds. They really enjoyed themselves and the smiles on the faces of the children made all our hard work very worthwhile. Many thanks go to Tracey Callender, Head Teacher of Shefford Lower School, for doing the Switch On and to Father Christmas for finding time to visit us. In the last edition of Newsline I asked that people attending the Switch On should give generously to the volunteers who went round with their buckets to collect money towards the cost of providing and maintaining the Lights. They did an excellent job and you gave generously. They collected £125, a big "Thank You" to all who contributed. We also have to thank Coral and Tony of the White Hart, who, through their customers putting money in the bottle on the bar, raised £155. This £280 will be spent solely on providing and maintaining the Lights. We have no admin costs or expenses to pay out to individuals. We are all volunteers. Talking of volunteers, we have to thank all the volunteers who helped us put up the lights and take them down, particularly Dave and Simon, our window cleaner volunteers, Coral and Tony, of the White Hart, who each Sunday provided us with tea, coffee and biscuits to help sustain us, to Michael & Barbara Watts for allowing us to have their milk truck to use as the stage at the Lights Switch On and to Ed and Kevin for providing the 'cherry picker' to enable us to put up the very high displays. We must thank Les Davies, for providing and running the PA system, Jenny Dann for playing the organ and everyone else who made the night such a success. We also have to thank the police officers who turned up in their cars unexpectedly on 2nd December to help us close the High Street and stop vehicles trying to travel along it when closed. Even the police officers got hassle from selfish drivers whose only consideration was for themselves. Our fundraising night will again be a Race Night to be held at the Community Hall, Ampthill Road, Shefford, and will be held on Friday 16th March, 2007. More information will be given in the local press nearer the time. Put the date in your diaries as we know that all those who attend have a thoroughly good evening. This year we shall need to raise sufficient money to enable us to replace yet more of our displays as some of the original stars, which are made from wood, unbeknown to us have become riddled with woodworm and will have to be destroyed. If anybody wishes to donate money towards the costs of replacing and maintaining the lights we shall be happy to receive contributions. Cash can be put into the bottle on the bar of the White Hart at any time during opening hours. One Sunday morning, just before Christmas, I was out doing a Lights check, when, from out of the Brewery Tap car park, a mink appeared. It came to the edge of the pavement, looked up the road (which was clear of moving traffic) and then it ambled across the road, went past me and proceeded down the pavement in Northbridge Street towards the traffic lights. I lost sight of it so I don't know if it managed to climb the pole and press the pedestrian light button to enable it to cross the road safely. (I can assure you that the only liquid I had consumed that morning was orange juice). Have a good 2007 and hope to see some of you at the Race Night. Andrew Boatwright Committee Member
YOUR COUNCILLORS

Town Mayor	Mr PFJ Makin	628860

Deputy Mayor	Mrs J M Harrison	814946

Town Councillors
	Mr A Gray	812656
	Mrs J Holmes	815453
	Mr P Fisher
	Mr C K Steeples	813085
	Mrs T L Reddick
	Mr J R Leith	815004
	Mr M A Wren	816586
	Mr M R Coward
	Mr R Dear
	Mrs D Clark
	Mr T Rance
	Mr K Barber
	Mr M Smith



Clerk to the Town Council	Mr G Barham	01462 816321

County Councillor	Mr R Younger	01525 717090

District Councillors
	Mr L Birt	01462 811689
	Mr A D Brown	01462 816254
	Mr M R Chapman	01462 629480

Member of Parliament
	Nadine Dorries MP	020 7219 4239
Consituency Office:St Michael's Close, High Street, Shefford SG17 5DD

SHEFFORD GALA
To all Shefford Gala Supporters Building on the success of our 2006 Gala celebration, the Shefford Gala Committee has started to plan for 2007, this year to be held on Sunday, June 3rd. Our monthly meetings cover all aspects of the event from floats, food and fairground rides to parades, plants and princesses. As a supporter of our Shefford Gala, the Committee would encourage a member of your organisation to attend our meetings. We need the comments of people who were involved with the Gala so that the 2007 event will be even better than the last. The best way to express your views about the needs of your organization will be to attend one or more of the planning meetings. Meetings are held monthly at 7.30pm in the Council Chamber, Northbridge Street. Meeting dates are listed below. Other dates will be arranged as needed. February 5th & 26th March 19th April 16th & 30th May 14th & 30th For further information, please contact any of the following Committee members. Martin Wren, telephone 01462 816586 Debbie Clark, telephone 01462 815963 Maggie Pepper, telephone 07815016507 Martin Wren Gala Committee Chairman

SHEFFORD PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP

Following the success of the last two sales, Shefford Parent and Toddler Group will again be holding a sale of nearly new baby and children's toys, clothes and equipment. To register as a seller, please contact Beth on 01462 623745, Coylah on 01462 647369 or Mel on 01462 816735, the date of the sale will be confirmed shortly. Shefford Parent and Toddlers meet on a Thursday afternoon at the Methodist Church Hall between 1.30pm and 3.15pm. We have recently updated a lot of our equipment and still have more to come. We have a baby area, a wide selection of toys and a weekly craft table and song time. Our fee is £1.50 per family which includes refreshments. Pop along to try us or call Beth, Coylah or Mel for further information. Mrs Beth Lessiter Treasurer
SHEFFORD BOWLS CLUB
The bowls club starts its fixtures on the 21st April, with the official opening of the green on the 22nd April. Chairman John Batcheldor holds his annual cheese and wine get together with members on Friday 20th April in the clubhouse starting at 7pm. Any potential new members are welcome to attend on the Friday. If you require further information please phone John on 01462628426
FOOTPATHS ACROSS POLEHANGER FARM, MEPPERSHALL
We thought it would be helpful to outline where it is possible for the public to walk on land at Polehanger Farm and where there is no access. We will be endeavouring to make this clear with the use of signs at the junction of paths and farm tracks. This will enable all who want to continue enjoying this particular part of Bedfordshire to be quite clear where it is permissible to walk. We enjoy our local countryside and being able to walk in it throughout the year. We are pleased that many people who live around Meppershall do too. We have a network of tracks across our land at Polehanger Farm, enabling farm machinery to get to our fields, but the presence of a track does not automatically mean that there is public access along it. Public Footpaths You will see from the map that there are 3 public footpaths running through the farm. FP4 runs from Meppershall Village Hall, down Crackle Hill, along part of Woodhall Farm Drive and then to Campton across the river. FP5 splits from FP4 and runs east along the top of Crackle Hill and then down towards Polehanger Farm before diagonally crossing the arable field in front of the farmhouse. It continues down towards the river along the grass track before going under the bypass and on into Shefford. FP10/15 links these two paths along the southern bank of the river Hit. Please note that there is no public access down the Polehanger Farm drive or through the farm buildings. Permissive Paths We have also put in place permissive paths. These are used at our discretion as landowners and have been registered at County Hall. They can be revoked by us. The permissive path links Shefford Rd at the north end of Meppershall Village, just beyond the Nursing Home entrance, to FP5 and FP4 described above. Please note that it is our intention to continue to manage Nuns Wood for conservation objectives, including some replanting, and that there is no public access to this Ancient Woodland. Public Access In the fields that run alongside the River Hit and FP10/15, there is now a woodland planted where the dairy herd used to graze. There is Public Access through this woodland and this makes a pleasant contrast to the open field setting of the other paths. In order for all walkers to continue enjoying the use of this path network at Polehanger Farm we would ask that the following points be recognised and followed. • Keep dogs under control and out of any growing crops • None of the paths are Bridleways and so horses do not have the right to pass along them. However we are happy for riders to use the stone tracks that are footpaths on the farm. We do not allow horses to use the cross field path, both for the safety of walkers and the avoidance of soil damage, or the grass tracks. • On no account are motorbikes or any other motor vehicles allowed to use the paths; the only exception of course being those which are associated with the farm business. • Land may appear not to be cropped, or invitingly down to grass; however this does not make it available for walkers. Environmental aspects of modern farming must be protected from public access, damage and disturbance. We are aware of the problems that pedestrians have in walking up the hill to Meppershall from Shefford where there is no pavement, and we are in dialogue with the Parish Council about possible solutions to this. We hope that you will continue to enjoy walking on the footpath network at Polehanger Farm as much as we do. With best wishes Chris and Christine Foster www.polehanger.co.uk Editorial Note: The Shefford Walks Leaflets include a map of the Polehanger paths (walk no 6). Copies of the leaflets are available from Shefford Library, other local outlets and the town Council. Map and text can also be viewed on the Shefford website www.sheffordtown.co.uk
LINE DANCING
Classes are run in Shefford Community Hall on the 1st and 4th Wednesday of the month (all other Wednesdays at Clifton Community Hall). The Improvers class is from 7.15pm to 8.30pm where the old faithfuls are taught, plus the odd new one, from 8.30pm to 10pm the Craft Class, (can't remember a flipping thing) and requests for the latest dances to be taught. Thursday classes are held at Robert Bloomfield School. Absolute beginners at 5.45pm, Beginners class 6.30pm to 7.30pm this will always be a beginner's class. New beginner's dances taught each week and all dances walked through if needed. Intermediates are from 7.30pm to 9.30pm with a large variety of old and new dances. Different dances taught most weeks. Other classes are held on Fridays at Clifton Lower School. All classes are £3.50, no set time to arrive or depart, just one fee, stay as long as you like. The grand total of £12,900 has been raised to date by the dancers for local charities. For more information please telephone Rosemarie on 01767 600268
REGULAR MEETINGS
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 850864 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- 1st and 4th Wednesdays 7.15pm - 10.00pm. various classes 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 is 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) Bible Study Group - 2nd Monday of the month (except August) see Diary for venue Line Dancing - Thursday 5.45pm -9.30pm various levels 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
TEA DANCES
Tea dances have started again in the Memorial Hall, Hitchin Road, Shefford and are held every fortnight. The February dates are, Wednesdays 7th and 21st starting at 2pm. Admission is £2.30 and includes tea, biscuits and a free raffle. The dancing is a mixture of Ballroom, Latin, Sequence and Old Time. Whether you are a competent dancer, one who is still learning or one who has not danced for sometime, all are made most welcome in a very friendly and sociable atmosphere. Dancing is recognised as being an excellent form of exercise and recommended by the medical profession for all ages. Come along and dance off those extra pounds acquired over the Christmas and New Year. For more information, contact Maurice on 01462 628656.
SHEFFORD LIBRARY
Have you visited Shefford Library? You may be surprised at what we have to offer!! There really is "something for everyone!" We have........ Books Music CDs DVDs Local Studies books Reference Books Videos Spoken Word stories (ideal in the car!) Local Parish Records Large Print versions of many titles Local Information Study Area and more! We have Six computers with FREE internet access (main Library) Additional 2 computers with FREE internet access (Children's Library) You just need your library card and PIN (available from the Library) Photocopier Fax machine Microfiche Reader and I.G.I. (International Genealogical Index) Been given some microfiche for Family History research? There is no charge* to use our microfiche reader.* Regular events...... 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 General Information We have information on lots of topics - come and ask us a question. We'll do our best to help you find the answer! Researching Family History? Browse our Virtual Library at www.bedfordshire.gov.uk Select "Libraries" from the menu. There's lots of information on Local and Family History. Follow the links to family history websites and read step-by-step guides to help you get started. No computer at home? Then pop into the Library and use one FREE. Do you know about out Housebound Readers Service? Problems getting to the Library because of health/age difficulties? Or know someone who has? Then talk to us!! We can select books etc for collection by family or friends. We can even arrange for a volunteer to deliver them. For Free. Do you know how to join the Library? It's very simple - and absolutely FREE!! Full membership requires 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 ID? No problem! Don't worry if you don't have any proofs of ID - an Instant Ticket will enable you to borrow a limited selection of items immediately and also to use the computers. Virtual Library Your very own library service on-line! Visit www.bedfordshire.gov.uk and select "Libraries" from the menu using your Library Card and Pin. Access a wealth of information: about YOU (your loans, when the items are due etc), our STOCK (browse the catalogue, make reservations) and GENERAL INFORMATION including local/community information, family history, reading lists, homework help and fun for our younger customers. Interested? Just *"Log On - and Read On!"* Did you know? With your Library Card and Pin you can renew items until midnight by phoning "Callpoint" on 01234 228930. What's Coming? Events are always advertised 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! A friendly team always willing to assist or answer your questions ..... if we don't know, we'll know someone who does!! Shefford Library is in the High Street, Shefford Telephone 01462 639070 Library Manager: Carol Forse
LEONARD CHESHIRE
We had a wonderful Christmas and New Year. Residents and Staff celebrated the festivities together and enjoyed the seasonal fun. We had many gifts and kind thoughts extended to us during the period and we offer our sincere thanks to all. Towards the end of last year we heard that Agate House had been awarded an 'Awards for All' grant to purchase a new greenhouse and shed. Great thrills because we can upgrade from the ageing structure that has a few draughts to say the least! So, if you can't find any of us as spring approaches - try the potting shed alias the greenhouse. We have planned dates for our first events in 2007. Saturday, 17th February, 10.30am - 1pm Book sale - A good selection of 2nd hand hardback/paperback books, something for everyone. Saturday, 24th March, 10.30am - 1pm Easter Bazaar. Do please come along and support us - find yourself a bargain or two! We look forward to seeing you at one or all of our events. In the meantime, our warmest good wishes to everyone. Judith Hagger Volunteer Coordinator/Fundraising tel. 01525 403247 P.S. Thinking of doing something useful this year - come and volunteer with us, we really need a few more kindly folk to help in the Activities Room here at Agate House. If interested, please do give me a call for a quick chat.
CRAFT AND PRODUCE SHOW
Preparations for the 2007 show are well under way. As I write, the new schedule is nearing completion. It is not easy to make sure that there is something for everybody, but we have tried to do our best. We are also in the process of re-designing our front cover and this will feature the image of one of our cups, so please look out for it. We always plan to have the schedule available in the spring and hopefully by the time the next edition of Newsline is available, you will have been able to find copies in the library.
EAST AREA THAI/KICK BOXING CLUB
East area Thai/Kick Boxing Club has been running for over 20 years, led by Chief Instructor, Nigel Thompson since 1985. Nigel has studied martial arts from the age of 16. He began studying Martial Arts with Lau Gar Kung Fu, Freestyle Kickboxing and then Thai boxing (Muay Thai) Nigel is former English, Commonwealth and World Thai Boxing Champion - winning 150 belts and trophies. Nigel's current grades are Kung Fu 1st Dan, Kickboxing 5th Dan, Thai Boxing 4th Black Kruang. EATK is independently run and has a sister club WAKT based in Cornwall. Currently there are clubs in Bedford, Shefford, Whaddon, Hitchin, Stevenage, Cambridge, Bar Hill and Shortstown. There are 250 - 300 club members attending regular classes, grading fights, shows, competitions and tournaments. Twenty club fighters achieved successful fight records, national and world titles. Six Instructors and four Assistant Instructors are taking their own classes in different areas, all overseen by Nigel Thompson. Annual Training events include summer courses in Newquay and annual trips to Sasiprapa gym in Bangkok, Thailand. A local Annual Fight Night is held at the Bedford Corn Exchange: Thai and Kickboxing Extravaganza run for the last 5 years. Clubs from all over the country attend to compete and as spectators. We hold six monthly Club Social Events - including Student of the Year Presentation - recognition of achievements. EATK has a history of supporting Children's Charities and WRVS in Bedford and Cambridge. Events are run in accordance with IKF (International Kickboxing Federation) world title status. East Area Thai Kick is a family where each individual member and instructor is valued, regardless of gender, race, religion background or age. Each person plays an important part of a successful team. Our club provides a purpose in life, a sense of achievement, personal development, fitness, self confidence, a healthy lifestyle and positive thinking. We promote tolerance and understanding and celebrate the diverse beliefs, cultures and needs within East Area. We provide opportunities for everyone to become involved in sport and physical recreation. East Area encourages healthier lifestyles and the benefits of physical fitness. We support members in realising their full potential, help them achieve their dreams and their personal goals. East Area provides focus, builds self-esteem and changes peoples' lives. Shefford classes are held in the Community Hall every Wednesday from 6pm to 7pm. All men, women and children aged 6 years plus are welcome. For more details contact Miggy Marcantonio on 07885249745
CARERS IN BEDFORDSHIRE
Carers in Bedfordshire is a charity that exists to provide unpaid carers and past carers with help, support, training and representation. Although our main office is in Bedford we cover the whole of Bedfordshire and are keen to increase our services in other areas. We offer a variety of services and send each carer who registers an information pack. We can visit people at home and also have a telephone helpline. We offer a free and varied training programme for carers. We have a weekly Carer Support group in Bedford and are hoping to have an advice and information session and carers support group in the Shefford area in the near future. We would be happy to visit any local groups and give a talk on our services. If you are a carer or past carer and would like more information, please contact Yvonne, Paul or Sally on 01234214914.
TOWN MAYORS COMMENTS
Christmas and the New Year are now over, by the time you read this it will be time to prepare for the summer holidays. These days it seems as though immediately one event is over we have to rush about to get ready for the next. Town Councillors can also look forward to a busy year. We have the usual monthly meetings to ensure that all the regular maintenance jobs are done, planning applications are processed in due time, play equipment is repaired and in a safe condition, grass is cut and so on. Now that Mid Beds District Council has decided that they no longer wish to provide public toilets in the town we have the task of ensuring that they are cleaned and kept in a safe condition. Over the last couple of months the Town Council has paid for a contractor to clear the weeds and rubbish from the footpaths in the town and what a super job he has done. We took the decision to pay for this work to be done as we felt the County Council Highways Department had failed miserably in their duty to keep the street clear of weeds. It is our intention to continue with the clearance of weeds from the footpaths of the town. We will be asking the County Council to keep their contractors away from the town centre and pay us a 'contribution' towards, or costs, for providing the service. They did have a contractor spray the weeds once very late in the year but you may have missed him as he sped around the town steering his quad bike with one hand while spraying the weeds with the other. I'm afraid it's a case of 'if you want a job doing well, do it your self. Following on with the topic of poor service, we need to keep pressure on the County Council Highways Department to get our roads and paths up to a safe standard structurally. They have pledged to get ALL the roads in the county up to standard within 5 years; they are now nearly 2 years into the 5. We have had several conversations and 'ping pong' letters on the subject of the poor and dangerous condition of the roads in our community. Not doing very well are they? They tell us that in Shefford we have 1% of the roads in the county and we have had a disproportionate amount of money spent on our 1% to bring them up to standard, so stop moaning, of course we won't. The one fact that we will agree on is that they do not get a sufficient budget from the County Council to do everything that is required. The trouble is we are facing the same problem that occurred with the country's rail network. If insufficient maintenance is carried out over a number of years, it does not take long for the system to become 'beyond repair'. We also need to keep pressure on Anglian Water Services, the company responsible for sewage disposal. It would seem that when it comes to forward planning being proactive is not one of the things they can do. That's why the sewage system went out of its 'use by ' date some 30 years ago and probably will not be upgraded for at least another 10 years. They can't even tell our local authority 'planners' that the system is overloaded, don't build any more houses. They are required to connect new housing developments to the main sewer, regardless of whether it is big enough to take the additional load or not. Hence the problems we have in Stanford Road, Ampthill Road and several other places in town. It can only get worse as more load is put onto the system. It would also appear that if a 'developer' builds a sewage pumping station that does not come up to the AWS standard they are not obliged to adopt it. It could even mean that the residents connected to it will have to share the cost of upgrading it to get it adopted by the sewage undertaking. That's a bit scary when you think of the possible cost divided between a dozen or so houses. Late last year we managed to get some engineers from the AWS to come and talk with us about the problems that we have in the town. They have promised to report back to us, before the Town Meeting, on the results of a survey of the drainage system. We wait with baited breath. Let me guess what the result will be.....................will insufficient finance be involved? At long last the Town Council has signed the contract to part fund the cost of an additional Police Community Support Officer. The majority of the cost of the officer is being provided via government grants, we contribute 25% of the wage cost. The Police Service pays for equipment and training. While this PCSO will be 'ours' in as much as he or she will be assigned solely to Shefford and we will have a 'say' in the tasking of the officer they will still be under the control and supervision of the Police Beat Manager. Our PCSO could be borrowed, should the need arise, by an adjoining beat area. However we will be able to 'borrow' other PCSO's should events dictate that we need extra officer cover, Charter Fair night for example. By the time you read this article 'our' PCSO should be trained and on the beat. The other exciting event for us will be the Local Authority Elections. These will be held on May 3rd. Both District and Town Councillors will be up for election. Unlike our 'District' cousins we are not allowed to canvas for votes in quite the same way, so Town Councillors won't be banging on your door asking if we can count on your vote. However we do need your votes. We also need community members to come forward and seek election to the Town Council. What would you do different to the existing council? Can you do it better? Contact Mid Beds District council for the necessary forms and have a go. VOLUNTEERS WANTED Volunteers are still required to assist with the Summer Gala and Parade. Will anybody who can spend some time with planning the events and/or actually on the day, please contact Martin Wren or the Town Clerk. We want the event to be a success and volunteers are needed to run the event. Paul Mackin Town Mayor
CHURCH NEWS
For the period leading up to Easter, as always there is a variety of services, and events on offer, you would be most welcome at any of them. Sunday 18th February - "Cool Classics in Quiet Corners", 3pm at St. Michael & All Angels - Concert by soloists of the Philharmonia Brass Ensemble, including pieces by Pachelbel, Copland, Weill and Gershwin. Introductory talk 2pm, refreshments at 2.30pm Tickets £8, £6 concessions, under 18's £2.50 from Box Office 01234 269519 or on the door Tues. 20th February (Shrove Tuesday) - 7.15pm Alpha Supper With talk-"Christianity, Boring, Untrue, Irrelevant?" at Shefford Baptist Church. For further details, contact Phil Vass, 626101. Wed. 21st February (Ash Wednesday) - 8pm Holy Communion at St. Michael & All Angels Lent in Shefford Deanery: On Tuesdays Feb 27, Mar 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 7.30pm Communion services with a Lenten address will be held in different churches within the Deanery. Details from Rev John Harper 813334 Friday 2nd March - 2pm Women's World Day of Prayer at Shefford Baptist Church Saturday 10th March: Concert of popular music at St Mary's, Meppershall, by Woburn Sands Band, with buffet and wine. Tickets £10 - 01462 813357 'Angelmas'the musical story of St Michael goes on tour to St Catherines' Church, Tilehurst,(nr Reading). Details from Jenny Dann 817337 Saturday 31st March 10am - 12noon Children's activity morning at Shefford Baptist Church, for Lower School children, come & enjoy Easter-related craft activities Monday 2nd - Wednesday 4th April 7.30pm Easter Devotions at Shefford Methodist ? hour reflecting on the events leading up to Easter. Thurs. 5th April (Maundy Thursday) 8pm Holy Communion and washing of feet. At St. Michael & All Angels 8pm Mass of the Last Supper at St. Francis Catholic Church Fri. 6th April (Good Friday) 9.50am 'Before the Cross' at St. Michael & All Angels 11am United walk of witness, beginning at Shefford Baptist Church, with short open-air service at St. Michael's, finishing up at Shefford Methodist. 3.pm The Passion of Christ at St Francis Catholic Church 7.30pm Good Friday Communion at Shefford Baptist Church Sat. 7th April (Easter Eve) 6pm Easter vigil and renewal of baptism vows at St. Michael & All Angels 8pm The Easter Vigil at St Francis Catholic Church Sun. 8th April (Easter Day) 7.30am Early Morning Communion at Shefford Methodist Church, followed by Breakfast together (please book in advance for catering) 9.30am Family Celebration Service at Shefford Methodist Church 9am Mass at St Francis Catholic Church 9.45am Family Communion at St. Michael & All Angels 10.30am Easter Sunday All-age celebration at Shefford Baptist Church 5.15pm Mass at St Francis Catholic Church Tues. 17th April 7.30pm Healing & Wholeness service at St. Michael & All Angels, an opportunity to receive prayer for yourself or on behalf of others. For further details... contact Rev John Harper 813334 (St. Michael & All Angels) Fr Bennie Noonan 813436 (St. Francis) Rev Phil Snelson 813284 (Shefford Methodist) Rev Steve Summerfield 812564 (Shefford Baptist) Or alternatively check out the link from the Shefford Town website!
MILLENNIUM GREEN
Due to a shortage of volunteers during the summer, we were unable to maintain the green to the standard that we would have liked. However the mown paths were kept regularly cut by Andrew Boatwright who also keeps the mower maintained. The Trustees are very grateful to him for his continued support. Unfortunately, his work is made more difficult by thoughtless dog owners who allow their pets to foul on the green and do not clear up after them, so please remember to pick up after your pets and either dispose of your bag in the bin provided or take it home with you, don't leave it hanging on the bushes for others to dispose of! Thank you. Hopefully, we will be able to catch up with work during the winter months before the next growing season. We now have a small weekday team of volunteers that meets approximately every 6 weeks to do the general maintenance. Larger tasks are arranged separately or done by contractors. The next two dates arranged are Tuesday, 27th February and Tuesday, 10th April. We meet at the Bellcote Meadow car park at the bottom of Purcell Way at 10am for about 2 hours or so. All are welcome to come along and join us. As Spring approaches, we hope you enjoy the green and look out for the wild flowers which are spreading out along the banks of the meadow area, all planted by volunteers when the green was being developed. Please enjoy your time on the green. For more information about the green please contact 01462814946
SUPPER CLUB
Do you like using locally produced ingredients to present tasty, interesting dishes or meals? Have you ever thought of belonging to a supper club? I am seeking out fellow food enthusiasts to start a Supper Club, something I have been thinking about for some time. If you are interested, or would like to know more, then call me on 07780 963772
COMMUNITY SAFETY GROUP
Recently each of the children attending the Shefford Lower School was given a high visibility arm band, in the hope that they will be more visible to drivers. The arm bands were provided by the Shefford Community Safety Group, using a grant from the Mid Beds Community Safety Partnership. The grant is provided annually to local Community Safety Groups to pay for projects that will improve community safety. We decided this year's (2006) grant should be spent on something for our younger community members. Unfortunately the grant was not large enough to provide safety arm bands for all the young people in our community so, after consultations with the Head Teacher of Shefford Lower School, Tracey Callender, we decided on providing all the youngsters at the Lower School with one. If we can secure sufficient grant funds in the future we will look into a more widespread issue. Providing things like this to the community proves how important these grants are. The grant amounts are very small, when you consider local government spending, but if one life can be saved, or one injury prevented then they have given an excellent return on the money spent. I have attached a letter I received late last year. I have not included the sender's name or address but the YOBS responsible will recognise the event. The author had some very mild comments to make, I will say no more and let you make your own. "I am writing to say a BIG thank you to the people who had a "party" on the flood meadow next to the River Flit, upstream of Churchill Way on Saturday 4th November and I'd like to send them a personal message: You had a BBQ, a few drinks and enjoyed some sparklers and I think that some of you made a night of it by camping out. It's really nice to know that people are able to enjoy a night out in Shefford! I'm so grateful that you left that mess behind otherwise I wouldn't have been fortunate enough to be able to spend an hour of my time on Sunday morning picking it all up. You must have had a great time because I collected 32 empty lager cans and 23 empty glass or plastic bottles (cider, gin, wine, Pimms, larger and vodka). I hope you enjoyed your burger butties - by the way did you know you left two bottles of tomato ketchup behind? One was in the river and one on the bank alongside the empty bread loaf bags and the remains of your BBQ grill. I was truly impressed with your ability to take your tent down, strangely you didn't pack it up and take it away with you - you threw it in the river along with many of the bottles, cans and bag loads of other rubbish. It was an ingenious touch to smash the bottles on the concrete slipway making it even harder for me to pick up all the pieces. Obviously you are really considerate to the welfare of children, pets and wildlife. Oh, did you want the tent back? Tough luck - it's in my dustbin! I took a picture of all the stuff you left behind that I collected; hopefully it has been printed for you and everyone else to see what a cracking job you made of taking your rubbish home. You will be glad to know that I recycled at least half of it - shame you didn't think to do that yourselves, ah but I forgot you aren't really that clever are you? If you are one of those people you should be thoroughly ashamed of yourself!"
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
FOR DIARY DATES SEE MAIN WEBSITE DIARY PAGE
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 SUMMER 2007 issue of Newsline should reach me, Jennifer Harrison, 4, New Street Shefford SG17 5BW. Tel 01462 814946, email bryjen3@aol.com by 4th APRIL 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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