Community Life Magazine Bedford Dec2012

Issue: 04 – December 2012 

...it’s all about Bedford! 

We Would like to Wish you all a very Merry ChristMas! 

BEDFORD HOSPITALS 

CHARITY... 

Going from strength 

to strength 

your FREE copy 

THE MAYOR’S CHARITY 

Looking Back on 2012 

SAnTA DOES THE ROunDS 

with The Bedford Lions

If you have already been to us at Bedfordshire Hearing Healthcare 

you will know that we pride ourselves on doing what’s right for you. 

We are founder members of the Association of Independent Hearing 

Healthcare Professionals (AIHHP) which is a well respected, 

professional association dedicated to promoting excellence within the 

UK Hearing Care profession. 

We are now proud to have the wonderful opportunity, along with other 

AIHHP Members across the country, to be involved with the charity 

Help for Heroes. In conjunction with Phonak (hearing aid 

manufacturer), we will be fitting hearing aids free of charge to our 

country’s war heroes who have suffered a hearing loss whilst serving in 

the Armed Services. 

These men and women are ordinary people doing extraordinary things 

for our country, and some of them are living with the consequences of 

their service for life. 

We are extremely gratified that we can be of help and if you know of 

anyone who could benefit, or would like advice on your hearing loss, 

call: 

Bedfordshire Hearing Healthcare 

52 Harpur Street 

Bedford MK40 2QT 

www.bedfordhearing.co.uk 

e-mail: info@bedfordhearing.co.uk 

2 Please mention Community Life when responding to adverts

Editor 

Teresa Brooks 

T: 01234 310521 

M: 07429 136815 

E: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk 

Advertising Manager 

Marie Rugg 

T: 01234 930634 

M: 07761 472164 

E: communitylifemag@yahoo.co.uk 

Front Cover 

Christmas Tree Festival, St Paul’s 

Design & Artwork 

tweet: @doodlemunky 

Production 

info@tmmedia.co.uk 

Printed by 

White Hart Press, Bedford 

FROM COMMUNITY LIFE 

Welcome... 

It’s here again! December – the 

month of joy, fun, family, Santa, 

concerts and Panto. Oh and a bit of 

shopping and stress thrown in! 

Our main feature is The Bedford 

Hospitals Charity, looking at what they 

have achieved this year. Plus a round 

up from The Mayor, Dave Hodgson and his chosen 2012 charities. 

Party season is upon us –Ladies, prepare for the fun with great 

special offers from your local salons! 

Select some fine wines for your Christmas table, try an Italian 

Panettone delight…and be sure to visit The Victorian Fair in town 

- November 30th - Sunday 2nd 

Our £25 donation is to Prebend Street Day Centre - They do 

an amazing job all year round but especially at Christmas. Read 

about their Appeal on page 28. 

If you would like us to feature something or would like to write an 

article for us, please get in touch. We deliver to over 6000 homes 

in your area and you can also pick up your FREE copy at La Piazza, 

Café Crema, The Gordon Arms, The White Horse, and many more 

outlets across Bedford, Kempston, Putnoe, Brickhill & the villages. 

Thank you to all our advertisers, readers & contributors for your 

support. Have a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year 

– See you in 2013! 

Facebook - Community Life Magazine 

Teresa x 

Twitter@CLM_bedford 

Publisher 

Brooks Media 

Contents 

The Mayors Charity ................................................................................ 5 

Christmas Italian Style ......................................................................... 7 

The Community 

Life Donation 

Every month, we will make a £25 

donation from our advertising 

A Day in the Life ......................................................................................... 8 

Blue Glass Fine Wines .......................................................................... 11 

A new lease of Life .................................................................................... 12 

Santa’s Rounds .............................................................................................. 14 

revenues to one of the charities 

or projects in our magazine so 

Suffering with SAD .................................................................................. 

Bedford Hospitals Charity ................................................................ 

17 

18 

look out for 

Bunions – what are they? ................................................................... 20 

the star! £25 Looking great for Christmas ............................................................ 23 

Rock Up in Red .......................................................................................... 25 

Disclaimer 

Tui Na – Chinese Massage ............................................................... 26 

© 2012 Community Life Magazine. 

All adverts and editorial are printed FROM in ALL OF US 

good faith. While we make every effort to 

ensure the reliability and accuracy of the 

material contained in Community Life, we 

BeCHaR Prebend Day Centre ........................................................ 

Save our Bluebells ..................................................................................... 

Bringing up Baby ........................................................................................ 

28 

29 

31 

can accept no responsibility for the veracity 

of any claims made by our advertisers or 

contributors. No part of this publication 

may be reproduced or copied in any form 

without the written consent of the publisher. 

Reconnecting with your Body ...................................................... 

RSPCA – A Dog is for Life ................................................................. 

What’s On ......................................................................................................... 

32 

33 

34 

Mini Ads & Services ................................................................................ 35 

To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk

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Mayor Dave Hodgson – The Mayor’s Charity – 

Looking Back on 2012 

Serving as Mayor of Bedford Borough is 

a tremendous honour and a privilege 

in so many respects, amongst which is 

the fact I am able to learn more about the 

remarkable work of our local charities. 

The ‘Mayor’s Charity’ this year saw three charities 

selected to benefit from fundraising activity which 

takes place throughout the year. December is 

naturally a good time to reflect on those causes 

and on some events I have been lucky enough to be 

involved throughout the year. 

The Bedford & District 

Cerebral Palsy Society 

BDCPS is a small local 

charity with a primary aim 

to support people in North and Mid Bedfordshire 

with Cerebral Palsy and associated disabilities, along 

with their families and carers. 

The Mayor’s Parlour: BdCPs awards 

In February I hosted a BDCPS awards evening in 

the Mayor’s Parlour where young people were 

recognised for some of their achievements in 

activities such as outdoor education and a course in 

fishing and photography. 

The children told me about the positive impact 

these activities had in their lives, and how pleased 

they were to have had the opportunity to pursue 

them. The evening also included a look at the ‘bling’ 

associated with the civic office of the Mayor and 

some dressing up in the ceremonial robes! 

To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylifemag.co.uk 

Charity 

The King’s Arms Project – A 

Christian registered charity which 

works with the homeless in Bedford. 

Its primary aim is to ‘restore dignity 

and self-worth to the homeless 

& disadvantaged in a way which encourages 

responsibility and choice’. 

In the early part of the year I took part in the charity’s 

sponsored ‘SleepOut 2012’. Sleeping under the stars 

obviously did not make for a comfortable night, 

but it was considerably milder than the -8oC of the 

previous weekend and those of us taking part were 

doing so in the knowledge that we would be back 

in our warm beds on the following evening. It was a 

small price for us to pay to help raise money for such 

an important local charity. 

Bedford Daycare Hospice provides specialist 

palliative care on a daily basis to all 

people affected by cancer or other 

life threatening illnesses. 

On a sunny September afternoon 

I acted as the starter for a Great 

Balloon Race in aid of the Hospice. It was an 

extremely colourful occasion, as you might imagine, 

and just one of their many successful events. 

Caremark – The Great Balloon race 

These excellent local charities work so hard through 

the year to support those in need, and to raise 

much-needed funds. Do keep an eye out on their 

websites and elsewhere for details, and help support 

true unsung heroes of the community in Bedford 

Borough. 

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ChristMas 

Try something different this Christmas ... 

If you fancy something a little different 

this Christmas, then why not try the 

Italian way. 

Local patisserie specialists, Amalfi, will be offering 

the most sumptuous filled Panettones, making 

a delicious, light but tasty 

alternative to Christmas 

Puddings and cakes. Panettone 

means “panetto”, a small loaf of 

bread. Filled with raisins, candied 

orange, citron and lemon zest, it’s a real taste of Italy. 

Panettone amalfi – Soaked with a champagne 

syrup and filled with a fluffy, 

champagne and cream 

mousse, decorated and 

drizzled with melted Belgian 

chocolate or simply dusted 

with icing sugar or cocoa. 

Panettone amalfi 

Panettone Napoli - Soaked 

with cinnamon syrup and 

filled with sweet ricotta, flavoured with lemon and 

orange candied citrus peels, red and green glace 

cherries and chocolate chips. 

Mention 

when placing your order! 

Panettone Napoli 

Pasticceria Amalfi, Bedford’s jewel 

in the crown, specializes in artisan 

Italian-style pastries, desserts and 

sponge cakes. Celebration, Novelty 

and Wedding cakes, Italian, English 

or Asian Style sponge cakes. 

Baked chestnut tart – A 

pastry based tart filled 

with chestnut puree in 

melted Belgian chocolate, 

sprinkled with roasted 

pine nuts. 

Or simply spoil yourself 

and your guests with a 

delightful selection of 

Mignons – Italian pastries 

with various fillings 

Francesco and gift idea 

including vanilla cream, 

ricotta, and chocolate, all sold by weight. 

A perfect gift idea… elegant, handmade Christmas 

Trees from £17 decorated with Ferrero Rocher, 

Marshmallows or Chocololate Eclairs. 

Panettones start from £15 and are freshly made to 

order so call to arrange your collection dates. Your 

Panettone must be collected on the day required or 

the day before to ensure freshness. Open Christmas 

Eve until 3pm. 

Call 01234 306514 to order or pop in at 

27 Park road West, Bedford Mk41 7sB 

We have a wide range of 

pastries available daily, and 

always have fine desserts 

ready-prepared for those 

last-minute dinner parties. 

Although we are just as happy to 

make your bespoke celebration cakes! 

“The Art of Italian Pastry” 

20 Years Experience 

All of our products are baked on-site by our professionally-trained pastry chefs, to authentic home-made recipes. 

Tel: 01234 306514 | www.amalfipasticceria.co.uk Email: Cakes@amalfipasticceria.co.uk 

7

voluNteeriNG 

a day iN the liFe ... 

It was a normal day at work filling out a 

form when Paul Atkin found he had lost 

all strength and ability in his hand. 

At 25, he didn’t think much of it, so carried on as 

usual. However, he began suffering paralysing 

headaches and numbness in his fingers and was 

forced to seek medical attention. 

He was diagnosed with degenerative spine disease 

and had to retire on ill health at only 27. 

All he could do was manage the pain with morphine. 

Suffering panic attacks, depression, blackouts, 

unable to drive or play sports, Paul felt desperate. 

After 5 years relying on anti-depressants, he tried rebuilding 

his life. He had a passion for football so took 

the voluntary role of Secretary at a local club. 

It was during this time that he met his wife. 

New medication and plan 

Paul decided he had to take action to support them. 

He managed to wean himself off morphine and 

sought help. Thanks to an excellent neurologist at 

Bedford Hospital, he was given a new medication 

plan and effective ways to manage his pain. 

This was the hardest bit. I picked 

up the phone so many times to 

call but kept putting it down 

❝❝ 

From that day, Paul has never looked back. The 

Healthy Steps programme run by the NHS and 

the Job Centre put him in touch with Central 

Volunteering Services in Bedford. 

Paul says “This was the hardest bit. I picked up 

the phone so many times to call but kept putting 

it down. I had lost so much confidence and I was 

terrified. Eventually I did it and was so glad I did.” 

He was offered a role in Volunteer Administration 

which he loved and he became an important 

member of the team. Speaking with new volunteers 

daily, understanding them and matching them to 

the right roles came naturally to Paul. 

Paul and Cvs manager, Bec 

He also took an NVQ level 2 in counselling skills. He 

had found a new purpose and was now running the 

weekly recruitment sessions. Feeling a sense of value 

and helping others gave him a much more positive 

attitude. A year later, a paid position came up and 

Paul was successfully selected from 87 candidates for 

the role of Volunteering Advisor. 

don’t give up on yourself 

He now works 25 hours a week and has never been 

happier. He says “My job matters to me and it makes 

a difference to others. I understand how they feel 

when they come in as I have been there. I would say 

to anyone -don’t give up on yourself - do take that 

step and call or pop in.” 

Getting back into a working environment was tough 

for Paul but CVS Manager, Bec always knew he was 

capable. “Paul is an amazing person and a truly 

valued member of our team. It’s been great to see his 

confidence grow so much and he is a very important 

part of what we do here.” 

“He understands people and is very skilled in 

matching the volunteers with the right role and we 

are very proud of him” 

If you would like more information on how to 

volunteer please contact the: 

VOLunTEER CEnTRE 

43 Bromham Road, Bedford. Tel: 01234 213 100 



9

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When it comes to the tipples of choice for 

Christmas Day, there are plenty of choices on 

the shelves and a variety of prices. But do you really 

know what to buy or indeed what you’re looking for? 

The Blue Glass are Bedford’s 

only specialist independent 

wine merchant and offer a 

selection of wines that are not 

available in the supermarket. 

Here’s a guide to get you 

started.. 

Good Morning! 

The one day you can guiltlessly 

pop a cork early is Christmas 

Day! 

Kick off the celebrations with 

Champagne - Australian 

Taltarni is a delicious dry blend 

with a nose of strawberry 

and the perfect partner to a 

smoked salmon breakfast. 

If you prefer something a 

little less heady before lunch, 

try a Prosecco –a lighter, less 

expensive option with a lower 

alcohol percentage but the 

same amount of bubbles! 

let’s begin… 

Although dependant on your 

menu choices and palette, 

most people prefer white wine 

to accompany a starter. 

You can’t go wrong with a 

classic Chablis, La Columbe 

2011 – an effortless wine that 

suits most foods. 

stylish and elegant 

Staying with the dry, crisp 

styles, you could opt for the 

La Clochette 2011 Sancerre – 

elegant and simply stylish. 

Leaning on fruity, the South 

African Peacock Ridge 

Sauvignon Blanc is nicely 

balanced. 

To take that fruit even further, 

try the Emiliana Riesling – 

slightly off dry, even more fruit 

and a tad richer. 


ChristMas 

Main event… 

Chateauneuf du Pape is a 

spicy classic that never fails 

to deliver and is a fabulous 

companion for any turkey! To 

complement the richer choice 

of goose, the smooth LAN 

2008 Rioja is a full bodied wine 

to really satisfy rich sauces and 

demanding palettes. If you 

prefer something between the 

two, treat yourself to a New 

Zealand MOKO Pinot Noir, 

superb flavour and not heavy. 

Pudding please… 

Is there even room! A 

Christmas Pudding needs 

sweet, strong company and the 

French Monbazillac delivers 

perfectly. A rich, apricot 

laden, syrupy sweet delight 

will tantalise the taste buds. A 

lighter option - the Tabali late 

harvest Muscat with notes of 

floral and honey…divine. Why 

not pop into Blue Glass where 

John will be more than happy 

to talk wine with you and help 

you choose the very best for 

your Christmas and New Year! 

43 st Cuthbert’s street, Bedford Mk40 3JG tel 01234 347732 

e:theblueglass@btconnect.com www.theblueglass.co.uk 

11

PeoPle 

A new lease of life ... 

L istening 

to Peter Keens play the piano, 

you would never know that he couldn’t 

see the piano or the music sheets. He 

wasn’t born blind but when he was 12 he 

developed headaches. 

He went for an eye test and tried glasses but they 

didn’t help. He was gradually losing his sight and was 

suffering with hydrocephalus – water on the brain. 

An operation managed to save 5% of his sight. 

He then went to a school for the blind and found 

himself having to come to terms with his lack of 

sight and make new friends. He said “ I felt sorry 

for the other children who were totally blind and I 

used to try and help them get about. I felt like one 

of the lucky ones as I could still see shapes although 

everything was black and white. I settled in ok as we 

were all similar but I used to find it hard as a young 

boy to not lead the life I wanted” 

He left school at 17, and after a brief spell at college, 

secured a job at local company Danfoss Randall 

where he worked for 14 years. He then had a chance 

to go back to college so took a computer course. 

Soon after, he began to teach Braille part time at the 

Westbourne Centre in Queens Park. His social life 

improved and he coped. 

‘i would feel trapped and unhappy’ 

Although Peter had managed to adapt to his life, 

he found life could be a bit lonely and at times very 

difficult. “It’s the little things that are difficult and 

sometimes I would feel very trapped and unhappy. 

When I was about 40, I even gave up music as I was 

so fed up with everything” 

It was the introduction of a beautiful, new companion 

called Lynx who made Peter’s life richer and gave 

him a new outlook on life - literally. For many years, 

even though he was registered blind, Peter always 

felt undeserving of a guide dog, but recently he was 

diagnosed with cataracts which could mean total 

loss of sight, so a friend encouraged him to apply. 

Peter had to attend a residential course to learn how 

to really relate to and work with a guide dog. The 

day Lynx arrived was one Peter will never forget. “I 

was so apprehensive, having never even had a dog 

Peter keens and friend, lynx 

before and was worried how we would cope. Our 

first trip was to Sainsbury’s and the support worker 

came with us. We went this way and that at first but 

we got there!” 

In addition to his superb training, Lynx has a trick 

up his paws too – he is trained to jump up and press 

the button on the level crossing in return for a treat! 

Peter finds that more people talk to him now he has 

Lynx who certainly appreciates the attention too! 

Peter couldn’t live without him now “He has become 

not only my eyes but my friend and companion too. 

He makes me get up and out and he’s given me the 

confidence I needed. I trust him and it’s so reassuring 

knowing he is there - I don’t feel so alone anymore” 

There is plenty of support and aftercare to make sure 

Peter and Lynx are happy together and working 

well. If there are any concerns, 

Peter can discuss them openly 

and he appreciates the visits 

made. They now have 

a happy routine and Lynx 

has made the difference to 

Peter and also found himself a 

loving, new home in the process. 


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13

ChristMas 

Route Collections with Father Christmas & his Float! 

Date Area General Route 

Monday 3 rd , 

Route 9 

Tuesday 4 th, 

Route 3 

Wednesday 

5 th , Route 4 

Thursday 6 th , 

Route 6 

Friday 7th , 

Route 14 

Monday 10th , 

Route 1 

Wednesday 

12th , Route 8 

Thursday 13th , 

Route 10 

Friday 14th , 

Route 7 

Monday 17 th , 

Route 11 

Tuesday 18th , 

Route 13 

Wednesday 

19th , Route 5 

Putnoe 

(North) 

Bromham 

Road/ 

Queens Park 

Putnoe 

(Queens 

Drive) 

Kempston 

(High Street) 

Clapham 

Village 

Wendover 

Drive 

Bromham 

Village 

Goldington 

Road 

Putnoe St. Arundel Drive, Mount Drive, Barley Way, Cornland, Queens 

Drive(Part), Overdale, Woodcote, Bowhill, High View, Northcote, The Ridgeway. 

Hurst Road, Beverley Crescent, Bromham Road, West Grove, Cutcliffe Place, 

Westfield Road, Winifield road, All Saints Road, Coventry Road, Howard 

Avenue, Gratton Road, Dunville Road. 

Queens Drive(Part), Braeside, Arrow Leys, Putnoe Heights, The Graylings, 

Queens Crescent, Woodmere, Fairholme, Furzefield, Leasway, Heronscroft, 

Brookfield Rd.(Part). 

Wyatt Rd, Balliol Rd. Bruce Rd. Huntingdon Rd. Kendal Rd. Owen Close, 

Wenlock Rd. Galloway Close, Williamson Rd. Ditmas Ave. Hill Rise, Durler Ave. 

Eugster Ave. Barnard Ave. Lodge Ave. High Street. 

High St. Shops, Highbury Grove, Knights Ave, Dukes Drive, Knights Ave, Mount 

Pleasant Rd, High St. Shops 

Risborough Rd. Wendover Drive, Aylesbury Rd. Barkers Lane, King Edward Rd. 

Queen Alexandra Rd. Abbey Rd. Manor Rd. Brookfield Rd.(Part) 

Village Road, Mollivers Lane, Woodland Drive, Wingfield Drive, Grange Lane, 

Neville Crescent, Rosemary Drive. 

George St. Rosamond Rd. Philpotts Ave. Greenshields Rd. Castle Rd.(Part), 

Russell Ave. Denmark St. York St. Pembroke St. Dudley St 

Fenlake Barford Ave. Nicholls Rd. Fenlake Rd. Christie Rd. Faldo Rd. Gifford Rd. 

Paradine Rd. Acacia Rd. Mark Rutherford Rd, Collie Rd. Nash Rd. Moulton Ave. 

Alamein Ave. Mareth Rd. 

Putnoe 

(South) 

Putnoe 

Heights 

Cheviot Close, Brendon Avenue, Polhill Avenue(Part), Selsey Way, Chiltem 

Avenue, Mendip Crescent, Haylands Way(Part), Quantock Close, Pennine Way, 

Stancliffe Rd. Hartshill, Greenacres, Pentland Rise. 

Brecon Way, Aspen Ave. Stanhope Rd. Paxhill, Harrington Drive, Rowallan Drive, 

Birkdale, Lowther Rd. Foxlease, Poplar Ave. Putnoe Lane(Part). 

Brickhill Drive Kestrel Road, Plover Way, Curlew Crescent, Brickhill Drive, Robin Hill, Rooks 

Mead, Linnet Way, Stirling Way, Falcon Avenue 

Site Time Date 

Sainsbury’s Clapham 0800 to 1800 Saturday 1st Dec 

Sainsbury’s Clapham 0800 to 1800 Sunday 2nd Dec 

Boots Corner 0800 to 1800 Saturday 8th Dec 

sw John’s School 11:00 am Sunday 9th Dec 

Church Square 0800 to 1800 Saturday 15th Dec 

Homebase Goldington Rd 1000 to 1600 Sunday 16th Dec 

Tesco Cardington Rd 0800 to 2000 Thursday 20th Dec 

Tesco Cardington Rd 0800 to 2000 Friday 21th Dec 

Tesco Goldington Rd 0800 to 2000 Saturday 22nd Dec 

Tesco Goldington Rd 0800 to 2000 Sunday 23rd Santa and his Float will also be in attendance 

at some of Bedford’s major retail outlets: 

Dec 

*Please Note: Bedford Lions will do all they can to meet the above programme but 

appearances will depend upon the weather and other possible and unforeseen circumstances Bedford lions santa and sue outside tescos 

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Wet shave, Beard 

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Colour & Perms 

KID’S CUTS 

Pamper packages & Gift 

Vouchers available 

MAKE UP & BEAUTY 

TRAINING COURSES 

ASIAN & EUROPEAN 

BRIDAL SERVICES 

SENIOR CITIZEN RATES: 

Wednesdays 

10% STUDENT DISCOUNT: 

Thursdays 

BEAUTY TREATMENTS 

Eyebrow Threading £3 

Eyebrow Waxing £6 

Eyelash/Eyebrow Tinting £6 

SEMI-PERMANENT LASHES (last up to 8 weeks) 

Facials- Ayurvedic, Collagen, Essential, 

Pick me up £16 

Reiki £25 

Indian head massage £24 

Hopi ear candles £25 

Back, neck & shoulder massage £14 

Manicure £14 

Pedicure £17.50 

Make up (by Mac Artist) £25 

Henna Tattoos £3 

Ear piercing £10 

83 Williamson Road, Kempston, MK42 7HR 

Telephone: 01234-854359 

Free parking & easy access via the No.1 Bus 

LADIES 

HAIRDRESSING 

All prices from- 

Ladies cuts £14 

Ladies cut & blow dry £25 

Full head tint £35 

Hi/Low lights £55 

Shampoo & set £10 

Shampoo & Blowdry £12 

Perms £48 

Permanent hair 

straightening £65 

Hair up £20 

20% off 

All Colours & Perms 

with this 

advert 



15

S. CLARKE 

BUILDING WORK, 

PROPERTY 

MAINTENANCE 

& LANDSCAPING 

Fencing, Decking, Turf, Paths, 

Patios, Drives, Concreting, 

Brickwork, Stud walling, 

Plaster-boarding, Shed 

re-felting, New shed bases. 

Wall & Floor tiling, 

Laminate flooring fitted, 

Hedge & Grass cutting, 

Garden rubbish cleared & 

much more! 

Tel: 01234 344615 

Mob: 07871 255699 

Licensed waste-carrier 

20b De Parys Avenue, Bedford MK40 2TW 

admin@bchiropracticclinic.co.uk www.bedford-chiropractor.co.uk 


Winter Blues or SAD? 

Cold weather, shorter 

days and the end of 

Summer should be enough 

to explain why so many of 

us suffer from the winter 

blues, but how do you tell 

the difference between 

that and Seasonal Affective 

Disorder – SAD? 

SAD affects over 2 million people 

in the UK, starting around 

September and lasting until 

Spring. 

What causes it? 

SAD is rare in those living within 

30 degrees of the Equator, where 

daylight hours are long, constant 

and extremely bright. We all feel 

better when the sun is shining 

– on gloomy days we feel less 

enthusiastic, more inclined to 

stay indoors, socialise less and eat 

more. Winter has fewer daylight 

hours -we get up and come home 

in the dark and the shorter days 

lack the same light intensity as 

in summer. Our mood-elevating 

chemical, Serotonin, drops in 

the winter- causing us to feel 

down and as the days become 

shorter we produce high levels 

of a protein which interferes with 

serotonin. Common triggers have 

been linked to childbirth, major 

loss, bereavement or serious 

illness. 

symptoms include: 

• Lack of energy and 

concentration problems 

• Colds and infections due to a 

lowered immne system 

• Sleep problems – over eating 

• Depression, mood changes, 

anxiety, panic attacks 

• Irritability, social problems 

Can it be treated? 

light therapy (Phototherapy) 

It means spending some time 

each day exposed to a purposebuilt 

light box and is a quick and 

effective treatment. 

For more information visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder 


healthy liviNG 

avoid stress 

Avoid changing jobs, moving 

home and major upheavals. You 

are less able to deal with stress 

during winter. 

exercise and eat well 

Physical activity is good for 

mental wellbeing. A daily walk in 

the middle of the day can be as 

helpful as light treatment. Balance 

the cravings for carbohydrates, 

such as pasta and potatoes, 

with plenty of fresh fruit and 

vegetables. An extra vitamin B12 

can be helpful. 

herbal help 

St John’s Wort is 

a popular herbal 

remedy for mild 

to moderate depression. A side 

effect is that it increases skin 

sensitivity to light, so do not 

take if you are using a light box 

–or taking antidepressants. It 

reduces the effectiveness of some 

prescribed drugs, including the 

contraceptive pill, so check with 

your doctor first. 

talk about it 

Join a support group. Knowing 

that you are not alone can help. 

Counselling can be useful, helping 

to uncover contributory factors 

and enable you to address them. 

17

Charity 

From strength to strength 

Bedford hospitals Charity Committee, chaired by Jayne Beard (front row, second from left) 

The Bedford Hospitals Charity was started in 1988 by a group of local people and 

chaired by Brian Woodrow, who received an OBE for services to charity before 

becoming Chairman of Trustees in 2008. Since then it has gone from strength to strength 

due to the commitment of the people involved and the continued support of the Bedford 

community. Led by Jayne Beard, the highly valued committee volunteers are from varied 

backgrounds and united in their dedication and vision. 

Commitment and pride 

Born, bred and educated in 

Bedford, Jayne Beard runs a 

successful Property management 

company. She chaired the Cancer 

Research UK charity for 24 years, 

served on the governing body at 

Dame Alice Harpur School and 

was a committee member for 14 

years before being nominated. 

She says ‘I remember the first 

meeting and how impressed I was 

with how positive and enjoyable 

it was and we are as passionate 

today. The support I receive 

makes the difference and I am 

proud to work alongside such 

wonderful people achieving so 

much together.This community 

charity supports local people 

and provides real benefits to our 

hospital and we hope to launch a 

new appeal very soon.” 

Locally, over £7.5million has been 

raised for projects - £2.5million 

for the new Primrose Oncology 

Unit, £400,000 for the latest 

Gamma Camera – Nuclear imaging team: Mandy, alison and Cathy 


cancer screening equipment for 

the Endoscopy Unit and £200,000 

to refurbish Cygnet Wing. 

Making the difference 

to patients 

The achievements of the 

charity are outstanding. In 

only 18 months £600,000 was 

raised to buy a state-of-theart 

new Gamma Camera with 

integral CT scanner, providing 

enormous benefits to patients 

by producing faster and more 

accurate diagnoses and making a 

difference to staff teams too. 

Mandy Brooks, head of the 

Nuclear Imaging Team said 

“We are enormously grateful 

for this incredible equipment 

which enhances our services and 

reduces stress for our patients 

in a more spacious and adapted 

environment.” 

The key to the Charity’s success 

is its ability to work closely with 

the local community and the 

hospital itself. Every appeal is 

approved by the Chief Executive, 

Joe Harrison, and only an 

incredible 0.5% of income is spent 

on administration, proving nearly 

every penny goes to the charity. 

Most money in support of 

appeals comes from local people 

Fleet of Zafiras 

attending or organising events, 

supportive charitable trusts, 

legacies and donations, with one 

lady even walking from Bromham 

with her coin jar! 

Great success has come from 

the true commitment of regular 

volunteers, including Molly 

Taylor and Rene Garrard who 

have each received the MBE for 

years of support and also the staff 

of the Tuesday bric-a-brac stall in 

the hospital - Sue Wells, winner 

of the 2011 Pride of Bedford 

Volunteer Award, and former 

Bedford Hospital senior nurse 

Jude Cottam, also awarded an 

MBE for services to nursing and 

health care. 

addenbrooke’s patients 

driven by volunteers 

Believed to be a unique 

charitable operation in the 

UK, Primrose Oncology 

patients needing radiotherapy 

treatment are offered the free 

Volunteer Transport Service to 

Addenbrooke’s Hospital. 

With wonderful support 

from Vauxhalls of Luton, 25 

volunteer drivers and a fleet of 

four Zafira vehicles are used to 

collect patients from home and 

take them to and from their 


Charity 

Bric a Brac – run by sue Wells 

and Jude Cottam 

appointments. Hundreds of 

patients have expressed their 

gratitude for such support. 

One patient wrote “You made 

my stressful treatment more 

bearable. Everyone was so 

thoughtful and helpful. Thank 

you so much” 

Christmas tree Festival 

The Front Cover displays the 

annual Bedford Hospitals Charity 

Christmas Tree Festival held in 

St. Paul’s Church. The trees are 

decorated by voluntary service 

groups, schools, local businesses 

and organisations. 

Funds raised are shared between 

the Bedford Hospitals Charity and 

the church, totalling over £87,000 

over the last 12 years. The beauty 

and magic created by all the lights 

is worth a visit. Open 10.00am- 

5.00pm from Wednesday 5th- 

Saturday 8th December Sunday 

9th December 2.00pm-4.30pm. 

Entry prices £2.50 admission – 

Under 16’s free. 

if you or your company would 

like to help, please email: 

enquiries@bedhospcharity.org.uk 

or visit: 

www.bedhospcharity.org.uk 

or call 01234 404248. 

19

health 

Bunions – what are they? 

nasty big lumps on the inside of the 

foot, sometimes painful and often 

embarrassing. The big toe usually points 

towards the second toe, known technically 

as Hallux valgus. Some people have them 

on the outside of the foot, in which case 

they are called bunionettes (cute?). They 

can be mild or severe. 

They only rarely occur 

in people who do not 

wear shoes, and it is 

reasonable to assume 

that they are often 

caused by wearing 

tight fitting shoes, 

especially high heels 

which force the toes into a 

tight and often pointy toebox 

(sorry ladies!). They can 

occasionally occur in adolescents and run in families. 

The problem is usually not just in the big toe. The 

metatarsal bone is usually in varus (the opposite of 

valgus), and it is often associated with flat feet. 

What causes the pain? 

Bunions are often painless, but patients are 

frequently concerned about how they look, as 

well as the possibility of them becoming painful in 

the future. If they are painful, this may be due to 

shoes rubbing on the lump causing local pressure 

problems, or mal-alignment of the toe causing 

arthritis in the joint itself. Sometimes it is both. 

It is important to find the cause of the pain, as 

straightening out the toe will not take away the pain 

from an arthritic joint (something more radical will 

need to be done!). Pain may also be experienced in 

the second toe. 

What can be done? 

If pain is minimal, wearing wider shoes will often 

solve the problem. Some people are able to use 

splints and shoe inserts, but most find them nothing 

but a nuisance. 

Surgery is very effective, but not without its risks. 

Top tip – if it is not painful don’t have an operation 

– there is a 20% chance of causing pain! 

There are over 50 operations described for bunions, 

but they can be divided into several groups. 

1. Simple removal of the lump and straightening of 

the toe suitable for very mild cases- recurrence of 

the deformity is probable. 

2. Osteotomy to correct the metatarsus varus and 

straightening of the toe. This is possibly the most 

common type of procedure and works well if 

there is no arthritis in the toe. Some surgeons 

will insist on about 6 weeks in a plaster while the 

bones are healing. 

3. Fusing the big toe joint. This can straighten the 

deformity and take away the pain, but obviously 

leaves one with a stiff big toe. A good option if 

the joint is beyond help! 

4. Take out the joint! This takes away the pain 

(literally!), but leaves one with a short and slightly 

weak toe. 

5. Joint replacement. This is technically possible but 

may not be a good option in most cases 

The treatment of bunions is complex, and the 

decision as to what (if anything) should be done 

needs to be individualised to the foot deformity as 

well as the patient’s needs and expectations. Seek 

expert advice, do not try these treatments at home! 

Mr Phillip Edge 

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon 

Based at: 

The Manor Hospital, 

Biddenham. 

For all enquiries call Tina on: 07974 514793 

E: ortho.edge@o2.co.uk W: www.bedfordortho.co.uk 


Love of 

Cupcakes 

10% off all bespoke cake 

orders placed with this advert. 

Tel: Zoe – 07515 708876 

ORDER LOCALLY IN BEDFORD! 

www.loveofcupcakes.co.uk 


Look great with a golden tan, perfect for: 

● Hen Parties ● Weddings ● Proms 

● Pre Holiday tan ● Top Up Tan 

● Christmas Parties 

or just because you want to! 

BASED IN RIVERFIELD DRIVE, BEDFORD 

Evening Appointments to suit ● Tanning Parties 

www.glogirl.co.uk Tel: 07947 120949 

21

A warm welcome awaits you 

This lovely Victorian Guest House is 

located on a tranquil tree lined avenue 

next door to Bedford School and only a 

5 minute walk to Bedford’s vibrant town 

centre or Bedford Park. 

The location of this attractive 

accommodation is well suited for business 

and leisure travellers as well as family 

members visiting students at the nearby 

schools and colleges. 

This very comfortable guest house has 

been a popular fixture in Bedford, 

England for 15 years. 

For your comfort and pleasure 

all guest rooms have been remodelled 

and redecorated in 2008. 

Tariff: 

Single: £29 ~ with en-suite £35 

Double/Twin: £45 ~ with en-suite £55 

Triple: with en-suite £70 

Family: with en-suite £75 

Check in: 2:00pm Check out: 10:30am 

All major cards Accepted 

Telephone Available 

Freeview TV 

Totally non-smoking 

En-suites available 

Wash Basins 

Period Features 

Down Duvets 

Ground Floor Rooms 

Complimentary WiFi 

01234 353844 

www.bedfordbedandbreakfast.com 

mervynpoulter@lineone.net 

24 De Parys Avenue, Bedford. MK40 TW 

Feeling 

under stress? 

BEDFORD COUNSELLING CENTRE 

A safe place to talk with a 

counsellor trained to help with: 

◆ Family issues ◆ Relationships 

◆ Confi dence ◆ Low self-esteem 

◆ Panic ◆ Anxiety ◆ Stress 

◆ Abuse ◆ Anger ◆ Bereavement 

◆ Illness ◆ Disability 

◆ Sexuality issues 

AFFORDABLE COUNSELLING 

Contact us on: 

01234 346077 

Email: bedfordadmin@hbcf.co.uk 

www.bedfordcounselling.co.uk 

Reg. Charity No. 1014988 

� MOT’s 

� Tyres 

� Brakes 

� Suspension 

� Exhausts 

� Clutches 

� Servicing 

� Air-Conditioning 

Unit 12a Fenlake Road Industrial Estate, 

Fenlake Road, Bedford MK42 0HB 

Tel: 01234 266193 


Time to Tan 

Solglo Tanning System gives fabulous natural results and keeps customers 

coming back time and time again! Look fabulous and glowing for your 

Christmas Party, a special event or simply all year round. Solglo is a 

revolutionary tanning system which is sprayed onto the skin using a 

special spray gun. The bronzer dries instantly and allows you to dress 

straight away. You will see your beautiful colour immediately but it will 

continue to develop over the next 6 - 10 hours to a deeper shade and it 

only takes 15 mins! Choose from Normal or Dark 

Special December Offer – was £20 Now only £15.00! 

Tel: 

01234 

21 21 49 

Please call the salon on 01234 212149 

2, Duke Street, Bedford 

www.essenceofbeautybedford.co.uk 

Stylish Hair 

Orly Gel FX nails - No ordinary gel manicure system! From your fingers to your toes, 

it is power packed with vitamins A and E, which help promote healthy nails, while 

showing off your fun side! With over 44 colours to choose from you are spoilt for 

choice. The coloured gel is applied like nail varnish but stays chip free for 2-3 weeks. 

Perfect for that night out and taking only one hour, the Gel polish is instantly dry, so 

you are all set to go on your way without worrying about smudging your new colour! 

Treat yourself to some stunning nails this Christmas at fantastic Prices! 

Popular looks for this party season are buns and soft curls, on the top, side, part sleek or fully 

up will all look fun, sophisticated and stylish. Try a soft, romantic look, accessorise with slides, 

clips and even feathers or try a vintage appeal with quiffs and combs. Even short styles can 

work with extensions and hairpieces to create a fabulous ‘New You’ look! Stylists Amy, Leanne 

or Sammy will be happy to help you – Why not call for a free consultation, take your ideas and 

photos with you! The ‘updo’ itself will take about half an hour depending on length. Prices 

start from £16. 

Exclusive Beauty Offer - With any Updo get a ½ price 

eyebrow shape only £3.25 or a full make up for only £20! 

To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylife.co.uk 

Looking 

gorgeous this 

Christmas 

Season 

For appointments call Caroline on: 

07947 120949 

www.glogirl.co.uk 

Based in Riverfield Drive, Bedford 

Party nails 

Gel Hands £25 - Gel Feet £28 - 

Manicure with Gel £30 - Pedicure with Gel £32 

Call 01234 325999 

High Street, 

Clapham, Bedford. 

23

PIZZA & PASTA TAKEAWAY 

For our menu please visit: www.papagigis.com 

Established in 1989, Papa Gigi’s has been serving the finest 

home-made pizza and pasta for more than 20 years. 

SPECIAL OFFER FOR DECEMBER 

FREE regular Garlic Bread when you spend £12 

FREE delivery on food orders of £8 or more in the Bedford area. 

Call 01234 269600 or visit us at the shop: 

109a Castle Road, Bedford MK40 3QP 

Opening Hours 

Take-away / Delivery 

Monday and Tuesday closed 

Wednesday to Saturday: 5.00pm - 11.00pm 

Sunday: 5.00pm - 10.00pm 

Please Note: To help us keep delivery times to a minimum please have payment ready. 

www.papagigis.com 

Our services include: 

• Laundry Service 

• Linen Hire 

• Work-wear Hire 

• Dry Cleaning 

• Ironing Services 

• Pressing Services 

• Senior Citizen Discount 

FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY 

We provide a friendly & professional service. 

Telephone: 01234 853 060 / 07825 294 345 

Fax: 01234 853 060 

E-mail: a1laundryltd@googlemail.com 

58, Singer Way, Woburn Road Industrial Estate, Kempston, 

Bedford, Bedfordshire MK42 7AF 


To advertise please call 01234 310521 or email: teresa@communitylife.co.uk 

Charity 

rock up in red for National heart Month 

www.bhf.org.uk/red tel: 0300 330 0645 

Did you know that coronary heart 

disease is the UK’s single biggest killer? 

It kills almost one in five men and one in 

eight women. 

It kills nearly three times more women than breast 

cancer. It is responsible for more than 80,568 deaths 

in the UK each year, which works out as an an 

average of 221 people each day. 

On the first Friday of National Heart Month,1 

February 2013, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) is 

asking the great British public to pay £2, Rock Up In 

Red and join the fight against heart disease. 

raising funds for vital research 

Whether it’s a scarlet scarf, fiery fingernails, donning 

a red tie, some crimson socks or going all out and 

rocking a top to toe red outfit, the BHF is urging 

people across the UK to organise a Rock Up In Red 

fundraiser day with friends, families and colleagues 

to raise funds which will go directly towards vital 

research and care for those suffering with heart 

disease. 

Rocking Up In Red is unbelievably easy. Simply 

encourage your colleagues to rock up wearing 

something red and give £2. Anything goes, as long 

as it’s red. A workplace, group or organisation can 

simply rock up wearing something red and give £2 – 

or schools can do it for £1 per pupil. 

rock up in red ... you know it’s worth it 

it affects us all in one way or another 

As well as being a leading cause of death, nearly 2.7 

million people in the UK are living with coronary 

heart disease, many of 

these will struggle with 

everyday tasks. Heart 

disease will touch all of 

our lives. 

Rock Up In Red this 

February and make 

a heartfelt rocking 

statement for your 

loved ones. 

to order your free fundraising pack, just go to bhf.org.uk/red or call the hotline on 0300 330 0645. 

25

health 

An introduction to ... 

If I had a pound for every time someone 

thought I was talking about a fish, I’d have 

at least twenty quid by now. 

This isn’t their fault, of course, Tui Na just isn’t all 

that common. Often it’s simply referred to as Chinese 

massage, and along with Chinese herbs and 

acupuncture, Tui Na (pronounced “twee nah”) 

forms an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine 

(TCM). Tui Na isn’t new; in fact, it’s one of the 

oldest forms of massage still in use today. Most people 

would have heard of Acupressure and Shiatsu, 

both developed from Tui Na. However, there is 

one fundamental difference between them, 

and it’s that Tui Na focuses on movement 

instead of just static pressure alone. The notion 

being that Qi (energy) is stimulated by 

movement, and stagnated Qi will cause 

pain or illness in those areas. Firm pressure 

on the acupoints and deep tissue massage 

of the muscles helps eliminate and prevent 

Qi stagnation. 

In China, medical therapy is classified as either 

“external” or “internal” treatment. Tui na is 

considered as an external method whereas, herbalism 

is internal. Acupuncture sits in the middle. 

tui Na – available at Bodysage 

Web: www.thebodysage.co.uk 

Tui na is subdivided into specialized treatment for 

infants, adults, orthopaedics, traumatology, rehabilitation 

and sports medicine. If you are looking 

for something very specific, which Tui Na can often 

provide, it is worth doing your research in advance. 

There are many techniques employed during a Tui 

Na massage, and many of these techniques will vary 

between therapists. I was lucky enough to be taught 

by someone who learned many different techniques 

from many different therapists all over China, and as 

with many forms of TCM in China, the doctors and 

therapists that practice them can be extremely 

secretive about sharing them. Generally, there 

is very little rubbing of any kind as with many 

other forms of massage. Instead, techniques 

start with rocking and pressing movements to 

get the patient warmed up. Tui Na is supposed 

to be vigorous, so it’s important to warm 

the muscles and joints, whilst boosting 

circulation moving on. Once warmed up, 

pressing and kneading movements are used to help 

loosen stiff muscles. This might be followed with 

some knuckle rolling. Don’t worry; it’s not as painful 

as it sounds. Towards the end of the massage, there 

would be more focus on applying deep pressure to 

the acupoints. Pummelling and drumming techniques 

are used at the very end to shake out any last 

remaining bits of tension. 

Finding a good therapist is about research. Speak 

to them first if you can. Find out what experience 

they’ve treating your condition. A good therapist 

will be insured, and will ask for your medical history. 

FB: www.facebook.com/bodysage – like us on facebook for news and special offers 

traditional 

Chinese 

massage 

email: info@thebodysage.co.uk telephone: 07814 441548 address: rising Crane Centre, 5 Melbourne street, Bedford 


....when it all becomes too much 


www.drugandalcoholrehab.co.uk 

0844 478 1302 

27

CoMMuNity 

£25 

FROM COMMUNITY LIFE 

FROM ALL OF US 

Festive Celebrations for Individuals in need 

BeCHaR, The Prebend Day 

Centre will be offering 

Festive Celebrations to 

individuals in need and 

crisis over the Christmas 

Holiday. 

They operate the Christmas relief 

in Bedford appeal. The focus of 

is to help raise £30,000 towards 

the charity costs over the festive 

and winter period and to ask 

the community to help provide 

Christmas gifts of chocolates, 

toiletries and warm winter clothing 

to those less fortunate. 

kicking the C.r.i.B festivities off 

will be a Christmas morning light 

GIFT 

VOUCHERS 

AVAILABLE 

Bedford Concern for the Homeless and Rootless 

(BeCHaR) – Prebend Day Centre, Bedford 

breakfast at Frescoes Cafe on Mill 

street. This will be followed by 

further festive celebrations and 

activities at The Prebend day 

Centre including a full Christmas 

turkey dinner and all the 

trimmings, games and activities, 

a visit from Father Christmas with 

gifts. Guests will also receive a 

packed dinner with lots of goodies 

to take home. The event runs from 

the 25th december 2012 to 1st January 2013. 

The Charity relies on the goodwill 

of the local community to 

make this event possible. it’s 

the generous financial and gift 

donations that enable us to offer 

the Christmas cheer to all! 

A REVOLUTIONARY NEW 

WAY TO LOSE WEIGHT 

IMAGINE THIS: 

No calorie counting, low carb or low fat – 

Powerful motivation to exercise – 

Freedom from thinking about food all of the time – 

No need to diet anymore – 

Eat whatever you want and still lose weight – 

Overcome cravings – Feel happy about the way you look – 

Virtual Gastric Band Available – *FREE 20 mins Taster 

www.calmpower.com or email joanne@calmpower.com 

We also need volunteers to make 

up our work force over this period, 

specifically on Christmas day 25th , 

Boxing day 26th december 2012 

and New year’s day 1st January 

2013. 

The spaces do book up very fast so 

should you wish to join us please 

phone us on tel: 01234 365955 

and ask for sue Flynn – assistant 

Manager. 

On behalf of the directors, 

staff, volunteers and all 

the visitors we help at The 

Prebend Day Centre, we 

thank you in anticipation for 

your support and wish you 

a very Merry Christmas and 

prosperous New Year for 2013. 


n ative 

bluebells (Hyacinthoides nonscripta) 

are one of the most stunning 

and enjoyable sights in the British 

countryside. 

Home to a significant proportion of the world’s total 

population, we have a responsibility to protect our 

nation’s favourite wild flower. Loss of woodland 

habitats and competition with non-native bluebells 

threaten our wild populations. Fenced-off and undermanaged, 

woods are becoming dark, overgrown 

and quiet. Coppicing and grazing practices need to 

be restored to let the light in and allow woodland 

flowers to thrive. During cold weather, spring flowers 

like bluebells have already started the process of 

growth, preparing leaves and flowers in underground 

bulbs so they can begin to grow in Winter and early 

Spring. With 

warmer springs 

induced by 

climate change, 

bluebells lose 

their ‘early start’ 

advantage and 

are outcompeted 

by temperature sensitive plants that start growing 

earlier than in the past. 

The spanish invasion 

Spanish and hybrid bluebells are common in our 

gardens. More vigorous than our native species , 

once out in the wild they can crossbreed with native 

bluebell, diluting the unique characteristics of our 

native bluebell. 


removing hybrids or 

spanish bluebells from your garden 

Dig up after flowering with their leaves intact, dry 

out fully to ensure the bulb is dead so as not to 

propagate them. 

Please remember the law regarding wild plants – it 

is only legal to dig up wild plants on your own land. 

Planting native bluebells in your garden 

Many gardeners are keen to grow the native 

bluebell for its scent and intense blue-violet colour. 

It is difficult to buy native bluebells that have been 

sourced and grown in the UK. 

Their protected status means that growers need to 

have a licence from the Government. Undala Alam 

from Bedford is a licence holder and is passionate 

about saving 

Bluebells. “I had 

never seen them 

en masse until I 

visited a bluebell 

wood a few years 

ago. Around 

the same time I 

CoNservatioN 

Help protect our Bluebells 

a typical english Bluebell wood. Picture: © Nidia oliveira 

Foreign spanish Bluebells 

Native english Bluebells 

learnt that the native bluebell was under threat so I 

decided to see what I could do to help. 

I thought I could try planting some, so I searched 

online for the native variety. 

It also occurred to me that other people might also 

want to join in to help reclaim the bluebells and 

decided to sell the seeds at a local fair.” 

if you would like to buy some Bluebells seeds for £1 plus postage & packing you can email her at: 

uza81@hotmail.com, please put ‘Bluebells’ in the subject line. 

undala will be also at the st Cuthbert’s hall Christmas Fair in Bedford on sunday 9th december. 

29

A local family business supplying 

and installing all leading makes 

of garage doors, which include 

Novoferm, Hormann, Cardale, 

Garador and Henderson. 

We can also repair and automate 

most types of garage doors. 

DECEMBER 

OFFER 

AUTOMATE YOUR 

EXISTING DOOR FOR 

£395.00 

INCLUDING 

FITTING & VAT. 

Call Us Now 

01234 355881 or visit: 

www.4countiesgaragedoors.co.uk 

SHOWROOM:- 

UNIT 13 SERGEANTS WAY, BEDFORD, MK41 0EH 

Do you have 

a Christmas 

party to go to? 

Special Offer 

with any Updo get a half price 

Eyebrow Shape only £3.25 or a 

Full Make-Up for only £20.00 

at 

Telephone for an appointment: 

01234 325999 

92 High Street , Clapham Bedford MK41 6BW 

Interior Specification for Limo for Hire 

● Drivers partition wall with privacy curtain 

● Side facing limousine-style seating for 16 passengers with individual lap-belts 

● Seats trimmed in two tone black and silver with white piping 

● Rear bar unit to the centre, between side seats and across the back 

● 1x40” LCD screen inside back and 3x19” LCD screens side & front of vehicle 

● Full bespoke sound system with 6x5” speakers, 2 x 12” subs 

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Tel: (01234) 354054 info@cedarcoaches.co.uk 

Arkwright Road, Bedford MK42 0LE 


BriNGiNG uP BaBy 

The birth of a first child is a commonplace 

event, yet for the new parents, it’s a 

major life change. 

Both men and women say having a child is their single 

most life-changing event as a couple. However, 

having children does not necessarily keep couples 

together, parenthood has the potential to challenge 

both partner’s feelings about themselves and their 

relationship. 

During the pregnancy, mum-to-be experiences massive 

changes to her body, hormonal surges and a 

change in desire and libido. Her partner can feel as if 

they are playing catch up with the changes that are 

happening. For the first weeks of her pregnancy the 

woman is likely to feel very different but appear to 

be the same as usual. As the pregnancy progresses 

the physical changes can be seen, but the impact of 

pregnancy goes way beyond the growing bump. 

Once baby is born, a real commitment, negotiation 

and understanding between the couple is needed 

in the first weeks and months. Usually one partner 

becomes the main carer and this partner will focus 

their energy, time and attention on the baby. Babies 

are very dependent on adults for a long period of 

time, this may seem an obvious statement but biologically 

and psychologically it is very important that 

a strong bond is forged in the first hours and days 

after birth, and the relationship the main carer develops 

with the baby is vital. Many parents talk of 

“falling in love” with their baby and are amazed by 

the intensity of this relationship. The preoccupation 

that develops between the career parent and the 


relatioNshiPs 

baby can leave partners feeling lost and emotionally 

abandoned. Is there enough time, love, interest, 

for everyone’s need to be met? It is ironic that at 

the time that a couple need to support each other 

through this life changing event they are being challenged 

by such strong emotions. 

It would seem that couples who ‘make it’ redefine 

how they show their love for each other during pregnancy 

and childrearing. Quality, effort, and keeping 

interested in each other replace frequency of sex, 

talking or going out. It’s easy to forget who your partner 

is so if the couple lose sight of their relationship 

and their needs – both of which may have changed 

dramatically – a rift may appear. 

The baby’s needs may seem ever present and lack 

of sleep doesn’t help, but finding time to be adults, 

partners and lovers will support the relationship 

AND the baby. Couples need to talk and focus on 

each other and have some fun and this will help 

this new family to find a healthy and balanced way 

forward. It sounds obvious and simple but it can be 

hard to do when life has turned upside down, nevertheless 

it’s worth the work. 

Can we help? 

01234 356350 

www.relatebedsandluton.org.uk to find out more 

appointments@relatebedsandluton.org.uk 

31

health 

Reconnecting your body 

lot of people are 

A misinformed when it 

comes to chiropractic. If 

someone asked you what 

a Chiropractor is, would 

your response be ‘a back 

doctor’? If so, then please 

read on! 

Chiropractic is much more 

involved than this, and mainly 

focuses on your nerves, spine, and 

overall wellness – a Chiropractor 

should be thought of as more 

of a ‘Nerve Doctor’ than a ‘Back 

Doctor’. 

Chiropractic was founded by 

Daniel David Palmer in 1895. 

Palmer based his discoveries on 

his assertion that the majority 

of health problems could be 

prevented or treated using 

“adjustments” of the spine 

to correct the misalignments 

he termed ‘subluxations’. 

Chiropractic’s premise is that 

‘subluxations’ interfere with 

the nervous system and result 

in many different occurrences 

of diminished health. In other 

words our nerves are central to 

our spinal cord - if our spine is 

misaligned and putting pressure 

on the nerves, it can cause 

problems along the way. 

Makes sense right? 

It’s the Chiropractor’s job 

to correct these spinal 

misalignments, in order to 

reconnect the body with itself, so 

it can begin the healing process. 

Chiropractic should not be 

THE 

WHITE HART PRESS 

OF 

QUALITY PRINTING 

thought of as a ‘cure’, but rather 

the means to maintaining your 

body’s relationship with itself – 

and this is why maintenance is 

very important. You should visit 

a chiropractor at least as often as 

you visit your GP or dentist, so 

what are you waiting for? 

Make an appointment with us at 

Bedford Chiropractic by calling: 

01234 353937 – or visit: 

www.bedford-chiropractor.co.uk 

for more information. 

Est. 1987 

01234 270465 

www.whitehartpress.co.uk 


The RSPCA’s advice is 

please, please, please 

don’t do it. The iconic 

image of a cute, happy 

puppy bursting out of a 

present to the delight of 

your family can quickly 

turn into a nightmare for 

both you and the puppy. 

Christmas – you either love it or 

hate it. In our dreams, Christmas 

is a magical time. The reality is 

often slightly more tarnished. 

The kids are bored of their toys 

by 10am and fighting over what 

to watch on TV; your visitors are 

having a lovely time chomping 

through your Quality Street but 

you’re rushing around cooking 

and sweating in your kitchen, 

whilst simultaneously trying to 

find which cupboard you put the 

sherry in from last Christmas. 

By the time you get a chance 

to sit down and enjoy the 

moment, most of the day has 

gone. Christmas tends to be busy, 

chaotic and often stressful. To 

add a puppy into this mix is unfair 

and irresponsible. 

A dog is for life, not just for 

Christmas’ Unfortunately, evidence 

suggests that some 

puppies are still bought without 

much thought given to the time 

and commitment needed, with 

many of these ending up in rescue 

homes as soon as the ‘novelty’ 

wears off. 

Approximately 20% of people 

who buy a puppy don’t have 

them two years later. This figure 

rises steeply for puppies bought 

at Christmas. 

should you buy a dog? 

Please consider the following 

facts when you decide what 

to buy as a present this year or 

whether you are ready to own 

a dog at all. A lot is involved in 

looking after a dog or puppy 

in terms of effort, time, money 

(neutering, microchipping, 

feeding, kenneling), training, vets 

trips, pet insurance, walking, 

grooming, dog toys, equipment 

etc. 

health and happiness 

Do you have enough of these 

things? If you don’t, it’s not only 

the dogs’ health and happiness 

that will suffer but the health and 

happiness of you, your family, 

friends and neighbours too. 

The RSPCA website has plenty 

of information about what is 

required. If you can’t take a few 

hours to read it – we can 100% 

guarantee that you also won’t 


aNiMals 

Thinking of getting a puppy for Christmas? 

a dog needs a loving family – for life 

look after the dog properly either. 

Taking on a puppy is a huge 

responsibility – the dog may be 

with you for 15 years or more. 

So think about the long-term 

commitment you are making. 

Christmas in the kennels for unwanted dogs staffie abandoned on Christmas eve 

The RSPCA estimate that there 

has been a 65% increase in animal 

abandonment over the last 5 years 

and estimate a further 6,000 dogs 

and cats will be abandoned across 

the UK before the end of this year 

– we will need an additional £5 

million to care for them. Most of 

these animals come into our care 

because people have made the 

wrong decision about their ability 

to look after a pet. 

So if you do make an informed 

and responsible decision to 

bring a new puppy or dog into 

your family, please don’t do it 

at Christmas. Please consider 

rehoming from the RSPCA. 

For more information call: 07769 322424 

www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk 

33

diary 

What’s on 

Victorian Christmas Fair 

Friday 7 th Saturday 8 th Sunday 9 th December 

Bedford Town Centre 

Kempston Musical Society Annual 

Christmas Concert 

Kempston East Methodist Church 

Saturday 15 th December 7.30pm Admission £6 

For more info call 01234 781010 

OPUS 18 Community Choir 

Christmas Charity Concert in aid of Alzheimers 

Bedford & Bedford Daycare Hospice 

St Marks Church, Bedford 

Saturday 8 th December, 3pm 

Adults £3.30 Children £2 

Charity Music Night for Reach Out Plus 

White Horse, Newnham Avenue 

Saturday 8 th December, 8pm 

£10 per person includes Lasagne Supper 

Bedford Rotaract's Christmas Quiz in aid of 

The Road Victims Trust 

Bedford Golf Club, Great Denham 

Friday 7 th December - 7 for 7.30 start 

Tickets £10, food provided – curry and rice. 

Marston Forest Centre 

Christmas Tree Festival 

Saturday 1 st December 

Entrance £3 adults, under 16 free 


Kids Christmas Party 

Saturday 8 th December – 2pm to 4.30pm 

Meet Father Christmas, Disco and Dancing, food 

box for every child 

Ages 3 to 10 

£11 per child, bookings only 01234 762613 


Conservation Task 

Scrub Clearance and bonfire 

Sunday 16 th December at 10.15am 

01234 762614 anna.charles@marstonvale.org 

Christmas Tree Festival 

St Pauls Church 

Wednesday 5th–Saturday 8th – 10.00am-5.00pm– 

Sunday 9 th December – 2.00pm-4.30pm 

Christmas Craft & Food Fair 

Kempston indoor Bowls Club 

Sunday 2 nd December – 10am until 4pm Free 

Admission 

Cinderella 

Bedford Corn Exchange 

Wednesday 5 th Dec, Fri 28 th Dec to Sunday 30 th , Tue 

1 st Jan, Wed 2 nd Jan 

Adults £14, Children £10, Family £39 

Bedford Comedy Club Christmas Special 

Friday 28 th December - 9pm 

Bedford Harpur Suite 

Tickets £12 Advance. £13 on the door 

01234 269519 

Syd Lawrence Orchestra – Glenn Miller 

Anniversary Concert 

Bedford Corn Exchange 

Sunday 16 th December – 7.30pm Tickets £20 

01234 269519 

Charity Dinner & Variety Evening 

Flitton and Greenfield Village Hall 

Raising Money for Cancer Research UK & 

Help for Heroes – Includes a 3 course meal 

Tickets £20. Tel: 01525 861111 

Festive Fair – in aid of Sue Ryder St Johns Hospice 

Brickhill Community Centre 

Saturday 1 st December – 2 – 4pm 

Stalls, Raffle, Santa's Grotto 

Adults 50p, Children Free 

Charity Shop Christmas Extravaganza 

Salvation Army Charity Shop, 

113 High Street, Bedford 

Friday 7 th December 9am – 

Saturday 8 th December 5pm 

Be one of the first to snap up the best of the 

Christmas Bargains 


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Community Life Magazine Bedford Dec2012

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