Newsline Spring 2008

I think you must agree Shefford's Christmas lights were excellent again this year. The 'Lights Group' can be justly proud of their work. Once the lights are down and stored away the group can rest easy for a week or two. Then start again to plan the 2008 spectacular, maintain and check all the existing equipment, look for funds to buy new displays and so on. They get very little from the 'public purse' so look out for their fund raising activities and support them when you can. Not a bad show for volunteers.

The cheer of Christmas has come and gone. The New Year is just beginning. It's chilly and there is the promise of some snow. It seems that the winters were so much colder a few years ago. Snow would be guaranteed, the car windscreen would be iced up every morning and water pipes would be frozen. Perhaps a little global warming would be ok. If only we could control it.

CCTV
The new CCTV camera is working well. A small group of us went to the Control Room in Stevenage to see how the camera was monitored and what could be seen. The pictures were spectacular. It was possible to recognise facial features on pedestrians right down to the old laundry site and the menus could be read on the Black Swan pub.

The operators are able to monitor the pictures and contact police officers very quickly and of course everything the camera sees is recorded.

One refinement that we don't have in Shefford is the 'Retailers Radio Link'. This is a radio network that links retailers in a town, so they can warn each other of shoplifters and suspicious characters etc, they can also talk directly to the CCTV Control Room. Control Operators can then monitor the areas around the town, where cameras are placed and record any suspicious incidents. They can also talk directly to the Police Control Room or even officers on patrol in the area. This may sound a little advanced for crime levels in Shefford but just two or three radio units among the town's traders may be of use, particularly to those traders who could be considered to be a soft target for villains.

SUMMER GALA
Plans for the Summer Gala 2008 are getting underway. There will be the parade of floats, side shows and arena entertainment. This is the opportunity for our town to show how we can relax and enjoy ourselves. Last year we had visitors from many surrounding areas, some travelled a long way, who reported that they had an excellent time in our community.

Of course it all relies on volunteers. The Gala Committee need helpers to plan the event, put up publicity posters, help on the day, donate raffle prizes and so on. If you would like to help, in any way, please contact the Town Clerk, Geoff Barham. You won't get paid, but you will have some fun.

ROADS
The Council will continue the fight to get our roads repaired and up to standard. We have had several meetings with the County Council Highways Officers and their contractors. We are not accepting their reasoning that as we have less than 1 percent of the county's roads, we should have less than 1 percent of the repair budget. We want our roads to be repaired and kept in a safe condition. Each time we meet the contractors or Highways Officers we are told 'there is not enough funds to do the work'.

We take every opportunity to complain about the level of funding for highway repairs. Whether it's yet another 'How life will be after the Unitary Authority changes' meeting or a 'Round Table' event to discuss the plans for highway maintenance for the year, we will keep the authorities attention focused on the poor and dangerous state of the roads and footpaths in Shefford.

FIRE SERVICE
My friends at the Fire Station tell me the Home Fire Safety Inspections are going well. Shefford is still ahead of its target for the number of inspections carried out. If you would like a Home Fire Safety visit, just contact Dave Bland at Shefford Fire Station and he will schedule a visit. Each inspection takes about 30 minutes and is FREE. They will even fit a smoke detector if required, also FREE. It might cost you a cup of tea!

One of the continuing problems at the station is manpower, or womanpower. There will be some vacancies at the station later this year, due to retirements. If you think you could be a Firefighter and would like to know more contact Dave Bland at the station or go along on a Tuesday evening.

If you do qualify and get accepted I can promise you it will be exciting. You will work hard, you will see things that are not so nice and you do get a few people who say thanks now and again but the real benefit is belonging to a special group of people who will always be there to help. I know from experience, I did the job for a few years. I retired 7 years ago and still miss the job very much. Dave can be contacted on 01462 815669 or 07812111275.

BUS SHELTERS
Time and tide and the nasty little yobs, (sorry haven't found an alternative name yet), have just about destroyed many of Shefford's bus shelters. We have had several attempts, over the years, to renew these bus shelters. One scheme was going to install advertising panels and provide the shelters free of charge. Another scheme was going to provide shelters provided we maintained them to their specification. Another was going to provide one as part of a '106 agreement' following a housing development. I can't think how many schemes have failed to produce the goods.

So now we are going to start off by paying for them and maintaining them ourselves. At the same time we are talking to Mid Beds and the County Council to see if they would contribute to the total cost. That way the worst case will be that we pay all the cost and best case is we share the cost. At least we will get some badly needed bus shelters.

COMMUNITY SAFETY GROUP
The Community Safety Group continues to highlight problems of anti-social behaviour in various areas of our town. The Group recently took part in the 'BIG PICTURE' event held at the Fire Station. All the participating organisations found the event very useful. It allowed us to reach a few hundred people of all ages. Pedal cycles were 'post coded' for security. Fire Safety visits, to domestic residences, were arranged. The results of a chip pan fire were very clearly demonstrated. Details of how our many 'aid agencies' operate were handed out.

It was a very busy but useful two days. Look out for similar events in the future.

Paul Mackin

EDITORIAL
Welcome to the spring edition of Newsline. As well as the usual selection of articles, we have some slightly different ones for you. The Shefford Gala team is making progress with this year's event but would like any additional help you can give them. For those looking for something new to do this year, take a look at the regular meetings page to see if there is something of interest for you. Don't forget to send in your nominations for the Community Awards which are presented at the Annual Town Meeting. Happy reading Jennifer
SHEFFORD'S 2ND SUNDAY FUNDAY
This summer, Shefford Memorial Ground will host a traditionally English Summer event when the ground plays host to Shefford's 2nd Summer Sunday Fun Day and Cricket Match, in aid of Keech Cottage Children's Hospice. The fun day, which will take place on 29th June 2008, will involve fun for the whole family including a charity cricket match between teams made up of people from Shefford and the surrounding area. The day will include stalls and activities to entertain the whole family, including a bouncy castle, welly wanging, coconut shy, BBQ and much more. Event organisers Ed Goodman, Lee Jackson and Steve Carter are long term supporters of Keech Cottage Children's Hospice and regularly organise charity pub quiz events in Shefford, Campton, Stotfold and other local areas and see the Summer Fun Day as an integral part of their fundraising. Ed said "Our first event raised over £1000 and we would really like to better that this year and are looking for help to organise what we are sure will be a day for the whole family". All of the money raised goes towards supporting Keech Cottage Children's Hospice care for over 170 families from across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Milton Keynes. It costs £2 million every year to run the children's hospice, over 75% of which needs to be raised through voluntary donations. If you would like further information or to help organise the event, whether is co-ordinating volunteers, collecting prizes, administrative support, etc then please contact the team at funday@bigquiznights.co.uk with your ideas of how you can help. Alternatively, you can contact Ed Goodman directly on 07738 436 792. For further information, please visit our website at www.bigquiznights.co.uk Thank you
P3 NEWS
As I write this we are out of the growing season and have a respite from fighting the ever-invasive brambles and other vigorous competitors for our footpaths. It does give us a chance to walk the paths and assess the work needing to be carried out in the coming season. It would help us a great deal in this if you would report anything on the paths which you think needs some action - either urgently or in the longer term. Either contact myself (my telephone number and email address are shown at the end of this article) or Geoff Barham, the Town Clerk. Even if remedial measure is beyond our own limited resources we are often able to call on the County Council for help. May I remind you that our series of walks leaflets are still available, free of charge, from Shefford library. These give details of eight interesting walks around our area. You can also view or download them from the Shefford website (www.sheffordtown.co.uk). We hope that 2008 will see ongoing development in our footpath network and - most importantly -that you will use and enjoy them. My number if you have any problems (or if you would like to volunteer to join our group - where you will be very welcome) is: 01462 811228 and my email address is: clarkmac@zetnet.co.uk Clark McGregor Chairman P3 Group
TEA DANCES
Tea Dances have started again at the Memorial Hall, Hitchin Road and are held every fortnight. The February dates are Wednesday 13th and 27th 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 or one who is still learning or 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
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
	Ms N King
	Mr K C Pollard
	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 631854

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

SHEFFORD LOWER SCHOOL
We had a busy autumn term, which culminated in a happy end of term and Christmas festivities. Also last term, we were awarded the Activemark Sports Award of which we are very proud. Children at Shefford Lower School have been enjoying and benefiting from enhanced RE. and sport opportunities. These have included inter-school events and competitions such as mini-Olympics, tag rugby, football, netball, athletics and a variety of extra curricular activities. We are delighted to have this award which recognises the good quality provision pupils receive and that the percentage of pupils receiving at least 2 hours high quality RE. a week is above the national average. Tracey Callender Headteacher A SURE START TO THE NEW YEAR! Wonderful news for children under 5 and their families and carers: a new Sure Start Children's Centre has opened at Shefford Lower School, serving the local community and the surrounding villages, including Old Walden, Southill, Campton and Gravenhust. A 'one stop shop' for parents and carers of children under 5, it will provide an information and signposting service, activities/support groups, and courses, from cooking for your toddler, to back to work skills. Catherine Williams, the newly appointed co-ordinator, said, "There will be something for everyone -pregnant women, new mums, dads, grandparents, childminders, single parents, babies, toddlers, preschoolers. My job is to find out what the community wants and make sure it is provided and accessible, either by ourselves or by others. We will also be bringing services out to the villages." Although the Children's Centre has just been officially designated there are already some activities up and running: a new mums group, a parenting skills course and a course for parents wanting to help their children with their literacy and numeracy skills. There are many others in the pipeline, including a childminders group, a 'buggy-push' exercise group, a postnatal depression group, and open door coffee and chat times. At the moment the Children's Centre is operating out of a room in Shefford Lower School but a new building is being built on the site to house the Children's Centre and Acorn Pre-School, which will be finished by the end of Februrary. The Children's Centre part will contain an information point in the shared entrance, an activity room and an office. Tracey Callender, headteacher of the Lower School, which successfully tendered to manage the centre, is very excited about the venture. "It is wonderful to be able to bring the Children's Centre and Acorn Pre School together on the Lower School site, to provide a seamless provision from birth. It will be so much easier for families. I am also very conscious that this is a venture for the wider community and surrounding villages too and will be of great benefit for young children and their families." There will be an official launch of the Children's Centre later in the spring and newsletters will be going out via health visitors, playgroups, preschools and toddler groups. In the meantime if anyone wants to go on the mailing list or wants to ask about activities they should contact Catherine at the Lower School on 01462 629123. Catherine is also looking for ideas and feedback from families and the wider community - just get in touch, or come for a coffee.
SHEFFORD LIBRARY
Do come along to Shefford Library and see what's on offer. It's not "just books" - though we have plenty of these; fiction, non-fiction and reference We have........ 6 computers - general (FREE) 3 computers - children's (FREE) Music CDs DVDs Study Area Spoken Word stories (ideal in the car!) Local Parish Records Large Print versions of many titles Local Information Photocopier Fax Machine and more! General Information WE have information on lots of topics - comae and ask us a question. We'll do our best to help you find the answer! Researching your 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. Ask about our Library Edition of the Ancestry.co.uk website - free access, just pay for printouts. Regular events...... Storytime for Under 5s - weekly at 2.30pm on Mondays (term time) Children's Activity and Craft Mornings 2 monthly and school holidays "Chatterbooks" monthly Reading Group for 8-12 year olds "Silver Surfer" FREE 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 - monthly Evening Events eg author visit, talks, Quiz, Family History etc 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/friends. We can even arrange for a volunteer to deliver them. For FREE! 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!" 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!! Opening Hours Monday 2.00 - 6.00 Tuesday 9.30 - 6.00 Wednesday 2.00 - 6.00 Thursday 9.30 - 6.00 Friday 9.30 - 6.00 Saturday 9.30 - 1.00 Shefford Library is in the High Street, Shefford Telephone 01462 639070 Library Manager: Carol Forse
SHEFFORD OVER 60'S COFFEE CLUB
The Shefford over 60's Coffee Club meets in the Shefford Community Hall for an hour each Wednesday morning from 10am to 11am. Members get together during that hour to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee but most importantly, meet with their friends and have a good old chinwag. A guiding principal of the club has always been that all those over 60 would be welcome to attend but as notified in the winter edition of Newsline, numbers have had to be restricted in the interest of safety. Membership is constantly under review and should there be any vacancies, this will be announced in the 'Biggleswade Chronicle'.
SHEFFORD METHODIST CHURCH
Acorn Preschool Group have been based in the rear halls of the Methodist Church for many years, using the premises on several days of the week. Now Acorn have exciting plans to move to a purpose built facility at Shefford Lower School in the spring of 2008. When they have completed the move there will be new opportunities for other groups/organisations to make use of the facilities. If anyone would like information regarding use of the church buildings then please contact the Church Secretary, Colin Smith (Tel.01462 812265, email: colin.gw@ntlworld.com)
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 Yoga - Monday 10am - 11.30 a.m. Carpet Bowls - contact Stan Potter 01462 81155 or Basil Gorringe 01462 629843 Shokotan Karate - Monday 6 - 7pm - contact Sensei Gabriel Tan - 01462 730551 Pigeon Club - 3rd Monday in the month 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 Vintage Motorcycle Club - 2nd Thursday of the month Tea Dances - Every other Wednesday - 2.00pm - contact Maurice 01462 628656 Model Club - 1st Wednesday of the month METHODIST CHURCH HALL Ampthill Road (near Ford's garage) Bookings 01462 815069 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. - Contact Kathy on 01462 629313 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 1st Shefford Brownies - 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 10.00am - 11.00am Slimming World - Thursday - 9.45am - contact Sandy on 01525 714104 Shefford & District Amateur Radio Society -Thursday 8pm Line Dancing- Wednesdays, except 2nd Wednesday of each month 7.00pm - 8.30pm Improvers, 8.30pm - 10pm, Craft Class. Fridays 6.45pm - 7.45pm Intermediates, 7.45pm - 10pm Intermediate/Advanced - 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. Sunday worship - 10.30am fifth Sunday of month, followed by meal together and games, no evening service Sunday evenings - 1st in month - communion, 3rd - Prayer & Praise 4th - Evening Praise Men's Breakfast - 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, Patsy Crichley (curate) 01234 381510 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 Praise 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). 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 Carers in Bedfordshire - 1st Tuesday of each month between 10.30am to 12.30pm - contact Sally on 01234 214914 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 - Thursdays from 5.45pm, Absolute beginners, 6.30pm - 7.30pm Beginners, 7.30 - 9.30pm Intermediates at Robert 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 Taekwon-do - Friday 7p.m. - 8p.m. Sumuel Whitbread School. Friday 7p.m. - 8p.m. Stondon village hall
SHEFFORD COUNTRY MARKET
Calling all home producers, your local Country Market needs you! Would you like to sell your home baked goods, surplus home grown fruit and vegetables, preserves or hand made crafts locally every Friday morning? Then Shefford Country Market would like to hear from you. Call at the stall in the High Street on a Friday morning between 8.30am and noon, or ring Sheila Brown on 01462 815495 for details.
ARAGON HOUSING ASSOCIATION - YOUTH UPDATE FOR SHEFFORD
Esmes Girls Nail Art & Craft sessions The sessions are for young women aged 9+. It's a fun time to try out nail art, listen to music and chat. All sessions are free and refreshments are available. The new dates for these sessions are: Thursday, February 28th, 5pm until 6.30pm, Thursday, March 27th, from 4pm until 6pm and Thursday, April 24th from 5pm until 6.30pm. All sessions are in the Town Meeting Room, North Bridge Street. AIR Aragon Youth Panel continues to seek ideas and provide youth activities for young people in Mid Beds. They will now be holding their monthly update meetings in Shefford Fire Station. Rusty Trumpets - A group of young people aged 14-19 years who have a common interest in Skate Boarding and BMX riding. The group currently has twenty two members and meets fortnightly in Shefford. Their aim is to look at ways in which to 'get' a Skate facility in the area. The group welcomes support and ideas. Lyrix Academy - Music Nights for young people have had a change of name to LYRIX ACADEMY. The evenings are focused around Drum & Bass music however a mix of Dance, Garage and R&B are also included. Youth Bank 'It's up 2u' - Youth Bank is a panel of seven young people who have set up a local grant-giving body for young people. They all attend Samuel Whitbread Community College in Shefford. Their youth bank is called 'It's up 2 u' it encourages groups of young people, of three or more, to apply for money from £10 - £750 to do projects, trips or events that will benefit young people and/or the community. This is in partnership with Beds County Youth Service and Aragon Housing Association. If you are a group of young people or know of a group please do contact me on the numbers or email below. Millennium Volunteers - Millennium Volunteers (MV's) are young people who give up their free time to help their local communities. MV allows young people to build on their interests, to develop themselves and make a difference to their community at the same time. MV certificates are awarded in recognition of the contribution that MV's make. There are currently seven Millennium Volunteers who work with the Community Development team at Aragon and they help to run, supervise or deliver some of the planned work, e.g Girls group, Dance, Music, Arts & Crafts and much more. New Youth Provision in Shefford - A new youth drop in / activity club is currently being planned for Shefford with young people. Ideas and support is needed from the community ie parents & young people. There will be research conducted in to the age range and needs for young people during January. The opening dates will be a trial period & planning. These will be held at Shefford Community Hall on Tuesdays, February 5th, February 19th and March 18th at 6.15pm to 7.15pm for ages 9-12 years and 7.30pm to 8.30pm for ages 13-16 years. For further information on any of the Aragon Youth Update please contact Nicola King - Youth & Community Participation Officer 01525 844513 or 07717313868 nicola.king@aragon-housing.co.uk
TOWN MAYOR'S COMMENTS
I think you must agree Shefford's Christmas lights were excellent again this year. The 'Lights Group' can be justly proud of their work. Once the lights are down and stored away the group can rest easy for a week or two. Then start again to plan the 2008 spectacular, maintain and check all the existing equipment, look for funds to buy new displays and so on. They get very little from the 'public purse' so look out for their fund raising activities and support them when you can. Not a bad show for volunteers. The cheer of Christmas has come and gone. The New Year is just beginning. It's chilly and there is the promise of some snow. It seems that the winters were so much colder a few years ago. Snow would be guaranteed, the car windscreen would be iced up every morning and water pipes would be frozen. Perhaps a little global warming would be ok. If only we could control it. CCTV The new CCTV camera is working well. A small group of us went to the Control Room in Stevenage to see how the camera was monitored and what could be seen. The pictures were spectacular. It was possible to recognise facial features on pedestrians right down to the old laundry site and the menus could be read on the Black Swan pub. The operators are able to monitor the pictures and contact police officers very quickly and of course everything the camera sees is recorded. One refinement that we don't have in Shefford is the 'Retailers Radio Link'. This is a radio network that links retailers in a town, so they can warn each other of shoplifters and suspicious characters etc, they can also talk directly to the CCTV Control Room. Control Operators can then monitor the areas around the town, where cameras are placed and record any suspicious incidents. They can also talk directly to the Police Control Room or even officers on patrol in the area. This may sound a little advanced for crime levels in Shefford but just two or three radio units among the town's traders may be of use, particularly to those traders who could be considered to be a soft target for villains. SUMMER GALA Plans for the Summer Gala 2008 are getting underway. There will be the parade of floats, side shows and arena entertainment. This is the opportunity for our town to show how we can relax and enjoy ourselves. Last year we had visitors from many surrounding areas, some travelled a long way, who reported that they had an excellent time in our community. Of course it all relies on volunteers. The Gala Committee need helpers to plan the event, put up publicity posters, help on the day, donate raffle prizes and so on. If you would like to help, in any way, please contact the Town Clerk, Geoff Barham. You won't get paid, but you will have some fun. ROADS The Council will continue the fight to get our roads repaired and up to standard. We have had several meetings with the County Council Highways Officers and their contractors. We are not accepting their reasoning that as we have less than 1 percent of the county's roads, we should have less than 1 percent of the repair budget. We want our roads to be repaired and kept in a safe condition. Each time we meet the contractors or Highways Officers we are told 'there is not enough funds to do the work'. We take every opportunity to complain about the level of funding for highway repairs. Whether it's yet another 'How life will be after the Unitary Authority changes' meeting or a 'Round Table' event to discuss the plans for highway maintenance for the year, we will keep the authorities attention focused on the poor and dangerous state of the roads and footpaths in Shefford. FIRE SERVICE My friends at the Fire Station tell me the Home Fire Safety Inspections are going well. Shefford is still ahead of its target for the number of inspections carried out. If you would like a Home Fire Safety visit, just contact Dave Bland at Shefford Fire Station and he will schedule a visit. Each inspection takes about 30 minutes and is FREE. They will even fit a smoke detector if required, also FREE. It might cost you a cup of tea! One of the continuing problems at the station is manpower, or womanpower. There will be some vacancies at the station later this year, due to retirements. If you think you could be a Firefighter and would like to know more contact Dave Bland at the station or go along on a Tuesday evening. If you do qualify and get accepted I can promise you it will be exciting. You will work hard, you will see things that are not so nice and you do get a few people who say thanks now and again but the real benefit is belonging to a special group of people who will always be there to help. I know from experience, I did the job for a few years. I retired 7 years ago and still miss the job very much. Dave can be contacted on 01462 815669 or 07812111275. BUS SHELTERS Time and tide and the nasty little yobs, (sorry haven't found an alternative name yet), have just about destroyed many of Shefford's bus shelters. We have had several attempts, over the years, to renew these bus shelters. One scheme was going to install advertising panels and provide the shelters free of charge. Another scheme was going to provide shelters provided we maintained them to their specification. Another was going to provide one as part of a '106 agreement' following a housing development. I can't think how many schemes have failed to produce the goods. So now we are going to start off by paying for them and maintaining them ourselves. At the same time we are talking to Mid Beds and the County Council to see if they would contribute to the total cost. That way the worst case will be that we pay all the cost and best case is we share the cost. At least we will get some badly needed bus shelters. COMMUNITY SAFETY GROUP The Community Safety Group continues to highlight problems of anti-social behaviour in various areas of our town. The Group recently took part in the 'BIG PICTURE' event held at the Fire Station. All the participating organisations found the event very useful. It allowed us to reach a few hundred people of all ages. Pedal cycles were 'post coded' for security. Fire Safety visits, to domestic residences, were arranged. The results of a chip pan fire were very clearly demonstrated. Details of how our many 'aid agencies' operate were handed out. It was a very busy but useful two days. Look out for similar events in the future. Paul Mackin
LEONARD CHESHIRE Disability
Agate House, Woburn St, Ampthill Beds MK45 2HX Telephone - 01525 403247 Registered Charity No. 218186 Christmas seems a long while ago now as we face the rigors of February - but what a wonderful time was had by all at Agate House, good memories! Residents and staff now seem to be settled back into their normally busy lives - plenty of visits to local pantomimes and trips to the theatre. Our sincere thanks go to all our friends and supporters for the friendship and help during 2007. Building work is progressing steadily. December 15th was a momentous day and quite emotional - the first phase had just been completed which allowed us to move ten residents into their new rooms. The extra space, en suite facilities and sheer new/modern finishes took our breath away and still continue to do so. Now work is well underway with the second phase that will result in a block of eight new en suite rooms. I have excellent views of a very striking yellow digger and piles of breeze blocks from my office window as I write this!! The year 2008 is an important milestone for Leonard Cheshire Disability- we celebrate 60 years from the forming of the foundation by Leonard Cheshire. Great celebrations are planned - we'll keep you informed!! So - once again, our warmest good wishes for a very happy and successful 2008 to everyone. We look forward to or if your New Year resolution is to "do something new" - how about giving me a call and talk to me about becoming a volunteer. Judith Hagger Volunteer Coordinator/Fundraising
DAILY BREAD CO-OPERATIVE
Did you know that you can buy high-quality wholefoods and other eco-friendly and fairly traded products from Daily Bread via the monthly ordering service based at St Michael's Church? Daily bread (motto: People before profit) is an independent co-operative business owned and controlled by the people working in it and its members are Christians practising their faith at work and at their local churches. (In fact the present vicar of Shefford was a founder member in Northampton 26 years ago!) Even the catalogue is 'green' - printed using recycled paper, vegetable inks and chemical-free printing plates. Why not pick up a copy from the Daily Bread table just inside the door at St Michael's? Orders need to be submitted by the first Wednesday of each month and goods are then delivered to the church the following Tuesday during the regular Coffee Morning; you can collect them later that day or later if you prefer. There is no delivery charge, but we do ask for payment in advance for all orders over £5. You can also buy from the selection on display in St Michael's. For more information contact Michelle Firkins on 01462 814117 or Jenny Dann on 01462 617337
WRYNGWYRM
(DARK AGE WARBAND) Wryngwyrm, is the Bedfordshire branch of the 'VIKINGS', a national re-enactment society with a 35 year history. So what do we do? In effect re-enactment is about living archaeology, together with historians and archaeologists we contribute to the understanding of life in the period we cover, which is from Celtic (post Roman) - Saxon-Vikings - Norman. This period has been commonly referred to as the Dark Ages, but was in fact rich in art expressed through church manuscripts, jewellery, metalwork and woodwork. Sophisticated societies also existed at this time, despite the almost constant warfare of this period. The area of Bedfordshire in which you live featured very heavily in the political and violent episodes of our time period, being in fact a borderland of the 'danelaw', between Anglo Saxons and the Danes. With Wryngwyrm, you can learn about this fascinating period in your town and county's history. We have two main branches to our group, living history and warriors. Living history members recreate the daily living and crafts of the Dark Age period. This could mean members exploring crafts such as woodwork, metalwork, leatherwork, embroidery, dressmaking, cooking or medicine. So if you would like to learn a new skill in a supportive, friendly environment, or if you have an existing skill in one of these areas and would like to take your interest to a new level, why not contact us. Living history is also about making displays 'come alive' for the public, so we are always looking for people who wish to act or narrate, to take on roles such as storytellers, priests etc. Warriors are an important part of our society. We aim to give an accurate portrayal of warfare in this turbulent period. This involves the use of weapons such as axes, swords and spears. We relive what is what like to stand on a shield wall in these periods and to have taken part in savage hand to hand fighting. It is an individual choice for warriors as to what level of warrior (and expense) they represent, so this could be as a peasant with just spear and shield up to a fully chain mailed warrior from the battle of Hastings. We also have a very active Archery section, where people experience the use of the traditional English longbow. Anyone wishing to be a warrior has to pass a series of tests, to display their ability to fight in a safe and skilful manner, as the weapons we use are blunted but faithful replicas of the originals. If you are interested in keeping fit, this is the perfect, exciting and fun way to exercise. Membership of Wryngwyrm opens up a world of opportunity to those with a historical interest in this period. We take part in national shows, the majority of which are on behalf of English Heritage, such as the annual re-enactment of the battle of Hastings, which in 2006, saw us fighting along side over 2,500 other warriors! We also carry out a number of local shows at various events and locations, and work in partnership with Bedford museum. All the shows we take part in whether nationally or locally, involve a mixture of warfare and living history. Membership is open to men and women, adults and children. All ages are catered for and we often have whole families involved. You have to be 18 to take part in combat displays, although 16-18 year olds can take part in supervised training. We have male and female warriors and archers where necessary equipment is loaned, whilst prospective members consider membership. Wryngwyrm can guarantee you a lot of fun and friendship, with a level of commitment in time that is purely at what ever level you set. If you are interested in joining us, wish to find out more, or to book us for an event, call Kim or Bill on 01234 743869. You can also visit our web sites www.wryngwyrmuk.org or www.vikingsonline.org.uk. Alan Hay WRYNGWYRM SECRETARY
CIVIC AND COMMUNITY AWARDS
As residents of Shefford you are invited to make your nominations for this year's awards. The CIVIC AWARD is for any building built or renovated recently considered of outstanding design and which enhances the town. The COMMUNITY AWARD falls into two categories; the first is for any individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the life of the town; the second is for the group which has made such a contribution. Nominations must be in writing and state clearly the name and address of the building, person, or group being nominated. Letters should be sent to the Clerk, Shefford Town Council, Council Chamber, PO box 39, 13 North Bridge Street, Shefford, Beds. SG17 5XN, to be received by 19th February 2008
CHURCH NEWS
By the time you read this, the New Year will be in full swing and those resolutions made, full of New Year optimism, will have perhaps already begun to look a bit difficult to keep. But hope springs eternal, or so the saying goes and within the different congregations of the Shefford churches, there are a variety of opportunities to renew that hope and encourage yourself, as we look forward to celebrating Easter, by preparing through Lent. This year, we are trying something different with Lent lunches on each of the Saturdays. Donations on these occasions will be going to Christian Aid and their work in the world's poorest communities. So, why not look at the list of what is going on below, and resolve to join us at one of them, after all there is a resolution that you WILL be able to keep! As usual, all the events have been listed chronologically and the contact details for the respective ministers are at the bottom of the article.
February
Wednesday 6th (Ash Wednesday)	9.30am - Mass, with blessing of ashes @ St Francis of Assissi Catholic Church
	7.30pm - Holy Communion @ St Michael and All Angels
	7.30pm - Mass, with blessing of ashes @ St Francis of Assissi Catholic Church
Monday evenings during Lent - Shefford Methodist home group will be meeting each week for devotions based on the "Stations of the Cross" - reflections on the final hours before Jesus crucifixion. The first meeting will be on Monday, 11th February from 7.30pm until 9pm and then each Monday following with the final meeting on March 10th. The group will meet at 58 Ivel Road, Shefford and anyone is welcome to join in. For further details, please contact Phil Snelson on 01462 813284, all are welcome.
Saturday 9th	12.30pm - 1.30pm Lent Lunch @ Shefford Community Hall
Saturday 16th	12.30pm - 1.30pm - Lent Lunch @ Shefford Community Hall
Saturday 23rd	12.30pm - 1.30pm - Lent Lunch @ Shefford Community Hall
March
Saturday 1st	12.30pm - 1.30pm - Lent Lunch @ Shefford Community Hall
	7.30pm - Concert by Vauxhall Male Voice Choir @ St Mary's Meppershall, with wine and buffet supper, contact details - 01462 813357
Tuesday 4th	8pm - Lent Communion Service with address on the Creed @ St Michael and All Angels (N.B.One of a series taking place in the Deanery, other venues will be Langford, Stotfold, Haynes and Clifton)
Saturday 8th	12.30pm - 1.30pm - Lent Lunch @ Shefford Community Hall
Saturday 15th	12.30pm - 1.30pm - Lent Lunch @ Shefford Community Hall
Monday 17th	7.30pm - Easter devotions @ Shefford Methodist Church. A half-hour of prayers, songs and reflections following the Easter week story, led by Rev Phil Snelson
Tuesday 18th	7.30pm - Easter devotions @Shefford Methodist Chuirch
Wednesday 19th	7.30pm - Easter devotions @Shefford Methodist Church
Thursday 20th (Maunday Thursday)	8pm - Mass of the Last Supper @ St Francis of Assissi Catholic Church
	8pm - Communion with sacramental feet washing @ St Michael & All Angels
Friday 21st (Good Friday)	9.50am - "Before the Cross", reflective service @ St Michael and All Angels
	11am - Good Friday Walk of Witness an opportunity to remember for everyone, beginning at Shefford Baptist Church, retelling the Gospel story, with pauses at each church in turn, an open-air service at St. Michael's, ending at Shefford Methodist Church, with refreshments.
	3pm - Passion of our Lord @ St Francis of Assissi Catholic Church
	7.30pm - Good Friday Communion Service @ Shefford Baptist Church
Saturday 22nd (Easter Saturday)	8pm - Easter Vigil St Francis of Assissi Catholic Church
Sunday 23rd (Easter Day)	7.30am - Early Morning Communion, followed by Easter Breakfast, at 8.30am, @ Shefford Methodist Church
	9am - Mass @ St Francis of Assissi Catholic Church
	9am - Easter Breakfast @ Shefford Baptist Church
	9.30am - Easter Morning Service @ Shefford Methodist Church, celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus!
	9.45am Easter Family Communion @ St Michael & All Angels
	10.30am - Easter All age celebration @ Shefford Baptist Church
	5.15pm - Mass @ St Francis of Assissi Catholic Church
So, on behalf of the Shefford Churches, may we wish you a happy Easter! For further details, please contact any of us on the numbers below. John Harper (St Michaels/St. Marys) 813 334 Fr.Bennie Noonan (St. Francis) 813 436 Phil Snelson (Shefford Methodist) 813 284 Steve Summerfield (Shefford Baptist) 812 564
SHEFFORD FORGE
Following the recent publicity about Shefford forge and the search for a permanent home for the artefacts saved from it, Mrs Audrey White was contacted by Mr D Jordan from Suffolk who has been researching his family history. His interest is that one line of his ancestors was connected with the forge. Mrs White passed the information on and I would like to thank Mr Jordan for permission to reprint the information here for those of you who are interested in the history of Shefford and the forge in particular. The information concerns a Stephen Whitbread who used to be a blacksmith here. Stephen is believed to have been born in Eversholt in 1712. He moved to Shefford to take up a position as blacksmith, or perhaps earlier for an apprenticeship. Stephen is known to have married Elizabeth Overall on 29 January 1737 in Campton, but so far their birth/ baptism records cannot be verified. If this is correct, Mr Jordan can trace the Whitbread name back to the late 1500's but cannot at this stage be definite. Stephen owned a cottage and orchard adjacent to the White Swan in Shefford. There is a document dating from 1776 which shows that Stephen was a prominent man of Shefford and had been elected, to what is today known locally as The Robert Lucas Trust, as one of the Feoffees to the town, which meant that he helped administer the charitable trusts which existed in the town, for the relief of the poor and needy or to be put towards maintaining the almshouses and workhouse etc. Stephen and Elizabeth had six children, William, James, John, Elizabeth, Stephen and James. In his will, written in 1775 he left all his freehold estates to son William and heirs, £30 to son James, livestock, corn, grain and farming implements, hay and whatever pertains to the land he held to his son Stephen. There was a militia camped nearby for most of the century which would have provided a blacksmith/waggoner with a fair amount of business. His son Stephen who was also a blacksmith in Shefford was hauled before the courts for trespass in 1782 accused of cutting down trees sticks, green stubbs and poles, property of Hy. Tingey at Shefford Hardwick for which he was fined 20 shillings. He also spent a term in gaol but it is not known what for. Whitbread is still a well known name in the area and I wonder if any are related to this line. When a site is found for the permanent storage of the artefacts from the forge and other items pertaining to Shefford and the surrounding area it would be nice to have more interesting facts about the history of Shefford to add to them. If you have anything to add or know of somewhere suitable to set up a museum, or permanently store what is left from the forge, do get in touch. There are a lot of people hoping to see this project moving forward so we do not lose our heritage.
POLICE SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM
Shefford Police Safer Neighbourhood Team would like to send all Shefford residents Best wishes for a Happy New Year! Security The focus point of this article is based around security, especially at this time of year when we have new valuable items from the recent festive season. We would like to highlight that over the last few months there have been a few burglaries in the Shefford area, therefore we would like to take this opportunity to remind you about your security. Always lock your doors and windows and remove the keys, store them in a safe place out of sight, as most of these incidents have been through opportunity, whereby people have left their properties or vehicles insecure or keys visible. This makes it easy for offenders to commit crime and it is unnecessary. If you require any information on property marking or security advice please do not hesitate to contact your local Community Support Officers (contact details supplied), we would be happy to visit or send you a pack. POLICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT OFFICER 4619 RACHEL KEEN SHEFFORD SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM POLICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT OFFICER 3659 GILL RICHARDSON SHEFFORD AND RURAL SHEFFORD SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM To contact the local Police Community Support Officers or the Neighbourhood Police Officer PC Busby please call 01234 - 842567, if you require prompt Police attention call 01234 - 841212 or if you require immediate Police attention call 999. Email - snt.shefford@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk
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 2008 issue of Newsline should reach me, Jennifer Harrison, 4, New Street Shefford SG17 5BW. Tel 01462 814946, email bryjen3@aol.com by 4th APRIL 2008 for MAY 2008 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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