LivingLife - Issue 1 (Arlesey)

Your 

FREE 

copy 

DELIVERED TO 5200 HOMES & BUSINESSES IN ARLESEY, HENLOW & STONDON 

Issue 1 

July 2019 

Inside 

FOCUSON 

Community Spirit 

Also inside 

Kid’s Got Talent 

What’s On Guide 

Scene by you

2 Advertising deadline for August - 10th July- visit www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk

illy the squirrel keeps running 

away - help us find him! 

Help us find Billy the squirrel, he’s hiding 

in one of the adverts in this edition. 

If you find him you could win £25! 

Simply tell us which advert Billy is 

hiding in, along with your name and 

contact details and we will put you in 

the draw. Closing date 22/7/19 

To submit your answer go to: 

www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/billy 

Winners agree to being published in LivingLife Magazine. 

The editor’s decision is final 

Get in touch with us: 

We would love your feedback on what 

you enjoyed about this edition, and 

of course, any areas where we could 

improve. 

01462 414265 

admin@livinglifemagazine.co.uk 

DISCLAIMER 

The opinions expressed in LivingLife magazine do 

not necessarily reflect those of the editors, publisher 

or their agents. Whilst every reasonable care is taken 

to ensure the accuracy of information included within 

this publication, the publishers take no responsibility 

for any errors or omissions in LivingLife Magazine. The 

content is not to be reproduced in any form without 

permission of the publisher. 

NOTE FROM 

THE EDITOrS 

A warm welcome to the very first issue of LivingLife, 

the brand new magazine for the communities of 

Arlesey - Stondon - Henlow. We are really excited 

to bring you this edition and to introduce ourselves. 

Our aim for this publication 

is to keep the community 

connected, but most importantly, 

we want to provide 

our readers with a publication 

that is both entertaining 

and informative. We really 

do value your feedback and 

input, that’s why we have 

lots of interactive sections included 

in this magazine, such 

as our ‘Scene by you’ feature, 

which gives you the chance to 

submit your own photos for 

publication. We also have our 

‘Puzzle’ section, including a 

crossword and our tricky ‘Spot 

the Difference’. Each month 

we will be bring you our ‘FocusOn’ 

feature which will be 

looking at a specific area we 

feel has real importance to 

the community. In this edition 

we are focusing on ‘Community 

Spirit’ including insightful 

articles from Arlesey Scouts, 

the Stondon Good Neighbour 

Group and Stondon Stompers 

Pre-School. 

Our other regular features 

| Andrew Martin | 

| John McBurney | 

include ‘Kids Got Talent’, where we showcase local 

children who have amazing skills, and our ‘What’s 

On Guide’, perfect for finding out about upcoming 

events and local groups. And don’t forget ‘Billy the 

Squirrel’, if you can find him you could win £25! 

Finally, we hope you like this month’s cover photo, 

a beautiful sunset shot we captured of the Blue 

Lagoon. 

Kind Regards, 

Andrew & John 

Please pass to a friend, recyle or compost after reading. 

Don’t forget to mention LivingLife when contacting advertisers 

3

12 

TABLE OF 

CONTENTS 

14 

Competition Winner 

MAY 

a big well done to: 

ANGELA Baker 

who found Billy the Squirrel and WON £25 

in our Shefford & Clifton magazine 

6 

8 

10 henlow singers need your help 

12 

14 

17 spot the difference 

18 money matters 

25 

ARLESEY BEAVERS SMASH RECORD 

Find out what’s been happening at Arlesey 

Scout Group. 

stondon stompers preschool 

Where children learn, play and make new 

friends. 

22 a wonderful month for wildlife 

24 

stondon good neighbours 

Good neighbours don’t have to live next 

door 

A contribution from Beth Hutton, musical 

director 

arlesey community events 

We’d love to have more people involved 

Test your observational skills with our tricky 

brain-teaser 

Our regular feature touching on all things 

financial 

Wildlife writer & photographer, Mark Hogan, 

looks at nature 

july crossword 

Test your brain, solve the clues, complete 

the puzzle 

diddy directory 

The cost effective way to get your business 

noticed 

26 artisans in the yard 

That special person - that special gift. 

28 what’s on guide 

A look ahead to what’s happening in the 

local area 

30 kid’s got talent 

We showcase the amazing talents of local 

children 



5

FOCUSON 

GOOD NEIGHBOURS DON’T 

HAVE TO LIVE NEXT DOOR 

Back in May 2017 a small group of residents from Stondon started the Stondon Good Neighbours 

Group. The aim was to provide short term neighbourly help for the residents of 

Stondon who were in genuine need of it with things such as lifts to the Doctors/Dentists, 

Hairdressers/Barbers and shops and clubs. We pick up parcels and prescriptions, put out 

bins and change light bulbs, even just befriending and having a cuppa can brighten someone’s 

week. 

With the support from Beds Rural Charities 

Commission by way of all the information we 

required plus the initial funding to set up the 

group and insure ourselves, we were off! 

We started as a 4 person team and now have 

10 members. We are all volunteers giving 

a little time to a marvellous scheme. It’s so 

rewarding to be part of a friendly enthusiastic 

group and we’ve enjoyed getting to know 

each other and our regular clients too. We 

typically achieve 18-25 requests for help 

over a quarter and would really like to see this 

increase as well as the number of our members. 

Our clients are really appreciative of the 

service we provide and we sincerely thank all of our volunteers for 

the work that they do. 

We do really well with our funding too, it’s all made up from 

donations; from the initial sum from Beds RCC, a grant awarded to 

us from Stondon Parish Council, and to individuals making a small 

donations. Last year Henlow Thrift Shop and Henlow Camp Theatre 

also made generous donations from the funds they had raised from 

their organisations. We’ve been so well supported that we have 

enough money in the bank to run and fund our group for the next 

two years. This all makes us feel so valued in the service we offer to 

the residents of Stondon. 

Over the 2 years that we have been 

running, our numbers have grown in 

clients and volunteers alike and would 

really welcome both new volunteers 

and new clients, so if you would like 

to find out more about helping or receiving 

help please contact us 07856 

810273 

*Please note that all our volunteers are DBS checked. 

Contribution thanks to 

Julie Best 

Stondon Good Neighbour Group 

07856 810273 



7

FOCUSON 

1ST ARLESEY SCOUTS BREAK 

ADMISSIONS RECORD 


Sarah Colley 

1st Arlesey Scout Group 

1arleseyscouts@gmail.com 

www.arleseyscouts.org.uk 

Arlesey Scout Group has been part of Arlesey since 1914 and has supported and taught generations 

of residents essential life skills such as fire building, camp cooking, teamwork, appreciation 

of our environment as well as life-saving first aid and survival skills. 

In the last few years, interest in scouting has been increasing as more parents want their children 

to experience the outdoors and have a reason to take a break from technology. At 1st Arlesey 

this year, we have seen our group nearly triple in size, this has been due to increased number of 

houses and residents in the area as well as a growing number of volunteers who give their time 

and skills to our group. 

On Monday 20th May 2019 we invested 17 new Beavers into our 2nd Beaver Colony which only 

opened on 29th April. This is a record number within the district, and we couldn’t be prouder of 

the hard work and dedication our team of volunteers has shown. With this increase, we will also 

be opening a second Cub Pack in September with a new Scout Group not far behind! 

In addition to this we will be opening our new outdoor space later this year which is currently 

undergoing maintenance; this land has been a a huge team effort to get ready as it was originally 

an old Victorian land fill site, with support from local companies like ‘John O’Conner Grounds 

Maintenance’ and ‘Mitchelson Plant Hire Ltd’ who have provided free manpower, machinery and 

expertise in helping us clear, rake, level and prepare this ground whilst we have been tirelessly 

fundraising to buy and install a security fence too - something we could not have achieved without 

the support of our community, young members and our volunteers. 

Scouting is open to boys and girls aged 5-18 and is the perfect place to make new friends and 

discover new adventures. For more information on joining, volunteering or hiring our hall please 

email 1arleseyscouts@gmail.com or visit our website www.arleseyscouts.org.uk 

Our Sections include: 

Beavers (5yrs - 7yrs) Monday 5:45 - 7pm 

Beavers (5yrs - 7yrs) Tuesday 5:45 - 7pm 

Cubs (7yrs - 10.5yrs) Wednesday 6 - 8pm 

Scouts (10yrs - 14yrs) Tuesday 7 - 9pm 

Explorers (14yrs - 18yrs) Monday 7 - 9pm 



9

FOCUSON 

Meet the Henlow Singers 

We need your help! 


Beth Hutton 

07891 504994 

beth.hutton@virginmedia.com 

The Henlow Singers were founded in 1968 by the late John “Jimmy” Alexander, MBE, who 

directed them until he passed away unexpectedly in 1986, just before their June concert 

and his retirement. They originally rehearsed and performed at the station church, St 

Andrew’s, RAF Henlow and in local churches, chapels and village halls. 

Membership was made up of about 40 Air Force officers, and run by an officer for 6 months 

at the most at a time, since the officers were re-posted at regular intervals, so a new officer 

would then take over. The choir was open to everyone, including wives. Then security was tightened 

and everyone needed a pass to get on base, so rehearsals were moved to St Mary’s Church, 

Henlow, where they have continued ever since. 

BBC’s Songs of Praise visited the base in about 

1973, when the Henlow Singers were joined by 

other church choir singers for a recording of the 

popular Sunday afternoon programme. David 

Barker, an Air Force musician (clarinet?) took 

over directing about 2000 until 2017, when he 

passed away. He was helped by his wife, Judith 

Barker as the organist for the choir during those 

years. The current director, unanimously elected 

by the membership in 2017, is Beth Hutton. 

The Henlow Singers, a charitable organisation 

are currently seeking an accompanist to join us. 

You can play piano or organ or both. Ideally, you 

need to be able to sight-read, pick up anywhere 

in the music, listen to what the choir is doing 

as well as watching the conductor. In return, we 

are able to offer a small salary for your effort, 

which we will discuss at interview. 

We are also seeking more members of all ages 

and abilities. You do not have to be able to read 

music, but it would be an advantage. Rehearsals 

are every Monday from 7:30-9pm in St Mary’s 

Church, Henlow, SG16 6AN, beginning again 

on the 9th September 2019. We perform twice 

per year in the church; a Christmas concert, this 

year on the 13th December, and a Spring concert, 

which will be on the 3rd April 2020. We 

would love to see you there, as a member? or 

in the audience! 

Please contact Mrs Beth Hutton, music director, 

at beth.hutton@virginmedia.com or on 07891 

504994 as soon as possible if you are interested 

in accompanying or joining the choir. 



11

FOCUSON 

STONDON STOMPERS PRESCHOOL 

Are you looking for a warm, friendly, 

nurturing environment for your child? 


Stondon Stompers PreSchool 

01462 817055 

www.stondonstompers.co.uk 

Stondon Stompers Preschool is a fully inclusive setting based in the Village Hall at Lower 

Stondon. It is a committee run, registered charity provision with both inside and outside 

spaces, including a vegetable garden, sheltered play area and grassed playground. 

Graded ‘good’ by Ofsted, our pre-school which was established in 1971 is at the heart of the 

local community and has an emphasis on learning through play. We believe that with the 

right support and encouragement every child will develop and thrive. 

In our safe, secure and stimulating environment we encourage children to learn through 

playful activities and new experiences; linking all of the fun with The Early Years Foundation 

Stage Curriculum and ensuring children are prepared for the next steps of their education. 

We are also passionate about child-led learning - our highly qualified, experienced staff support 

every child to explore their own interests and develop their ideas by enriching exploration 

in-the-moment. They will also guide and support your child to: 

-Learn, play and make new friends 

-Explore the world around them 

-Develop their confidence, imagination and independence 

-But most importantly…have fun! 

Every day at our preschool the children’s day is packed full of activities, which include but 

are not limited to: arts & crafts, singing & dancing, cooking, building, team activities, external 

trips within the local community, plus special events such as Parent and Carer Stay & Play 

days, Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea, Father’s Day Breakfast and much more. 

Stondon Stompers Preschool is open between 8.05am (breakfast club) to 3.05pm Monday to 

Friday during term time, with full and part-time places available. We receive Nursery Education 

Funding for all eligible children aged 2 years to 5 years of age, which is free at the point 

of delivery. 

For more information visit stondonstompers.co.uk, follow us on Facebook @StondonStompersPreschool to see what 

we have got up to today or call us on 01462 817055. Registered Charity Number: 1044402 



13

FOCUSON 

ARLESEY COMMUNITY EVENTS GROUP 

We’d love to have more people involved 


Sam Ward 

Arlesey Community Events 

Group - 07790 549021 

arleseyeventsgroup@gmail.com 

The Arlesey Community Events Group was formed by a small group of Arlesey residents in 

2016, originally with the aim of taking on the task of running the annual summer fete - previously 

the Town Council organised the Arlesey Fun Day. We very quickly realised we would 

need to fund raise throughout the year in order to run the Fete, and so we now organise in 

the region of 7-10 events a year. We try, where possible, to use and promote local businesses and 

have been supported in return by a number of these. We now have quite a list of contacts, who 

are always eager to attend our events - travelling from as far away as Wiltshire in some instances! 

The Committee is a small group, consisting of 6 residents, all with diverse skills and busy lives. 

We have a band of willing helpers (husbands & children!), who, along with several other residents, 

come to our events to fetch and carry, erect gazebos, move tables and chairs, take photos, loan 

equipment and help with advertising. We are supported by Arlesey Town Council who kindly 

fund marquee & toilet hire for the Fete every year, as well as providing the venue for many of our 

events. 

We are always on the look out for suggestions from residents on how to improve our events, or 

new events we could organise. Residents would be more than welcome to get involved - our committee 

is elected annually at our AGM in February but anyone can get involved throughout the 

year if they have the time to spare! Indeed, we’d love to have more people involved. 

Photos by permission of Andy Ward 

Dates for our upcoming events are: 

June 22nd Party in the Park - Arlesey Recreation Ground 3-8pm 

July 13th Open Air Cinema - Arlesey Recreation Ground, Mary Poppins 2pm, Bohemian Rhapsody 

7pm. Tickets on sale at www.hiremyled.co.uk/book-tickets 

Sept 7th Arlesey Summer Fete - Arlesey Recreation Ground 12-5pm 

October 12th Quiz Night - Arlesey Village Hall 7pm 

November 30th Christmas Fair & Lights Switch-On - Arlesey Village Hall 3pm 

December 21st Community Carols - Arlesey Pump 6pm 

You can find out details of our upcoming events via our Facebook page: @arleseycommunityeventsgroup or email above 



15

Spot the Difference 

Let our tricky puzzle test out your observation skills 

Answers can be found on P27 

Can you spot 10 differences between these two photos? 

You can also find the answers at 

www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/spot 


Money Matters 

A big welcome from me! Robert Harris, the 

financial educator 

As time progresses, living a life will bring about many changes, which is why in this magazine we want 

to talk about some of things that can happen in life. These changes can be managed financially to keep 

readers secure and help ensure that they always have enough money in hand to cope with all that life 

brings. Strange though, that we learnt nothing about saving and investing money when we were at 

school, college or even university. This column will regularly bring you hints and tips and the knowledge 

you need to make better choices with your money. 

At the moment, money in the bank earns very little, but Goldman Sachs now offer their 

Marcus account at 1.5% per annum interest on an instant access basis – maybe 

that’s better than the current rate on your savings? However, last year, prices 

in the supermarkets rose by 4%, and the cost of living is still rising by around 

3% this year. So, even at 1.5% interest, your money will buy less in the shops 

when you spend it in the future. That is why this column will help you understand 

how you might invest in different ways, understand risk but seek to 

make your money grow. 

If you have questions that you need answered to do with savings and investments you 

can contact Robert at harrisfinancialfriend@gmail.com 

Robert’s job is not to give financial advice but to use simple explanations that help you along the way 

Our fabulous Facebook audience nominated 

Rob to feature in this month’s magazine, we 

had a chat with him so discover why he got 

started in business. 

I started a 3 year apprenticeship with British 

Gas back in 1988. This gave me a solid foundation 

and provided excellent training. 

After having worked for a local firm for over 16 

years I decided to branch out on my own as it 

gave me more flexibility juggling parenthood 

and work. I am very organised, experienced 

and personable. I take pride in my work and 

hope I have built a good reputation. 


17

Local family business providing 

specialist shutters, blinds & curtains 

Impact Interiors are a local family business run by 

Matthew & Nina. (Husband & Wife) 

We are members of the British Blinds and Shutter 

Association and have had a showroom in Henlow 

High Street now for over 6 years. Providing made to 

measure, supply and fit of quality plantation shutters, 

blinds and curtains. 

With over 30 years experience in the interiors 

and retail business, we have built up a reputation 

of top quality and service with a personal 

touch. 

and our verified Google reviews on our website. 

Or visit our fully equipped showroom at 15a High 

Street, Henlow, SG16 6BS. Ample Free parking agreed 

with The Crown pub opposite. Worth a visit too whilst 

your there. Contact us today if you’d like to learn 

more about any of our products and services, or to 

arrange for a free home visit. 

All our fitters & staff are family members and 

this helps to maintain the consistency of our top 

quality finishes and customer service. All our 

surveys are carried out by us and not hard salesmen 

and we give honest and informed advice 

about what would look best in your home. If you 

are unsure which window dressing to choose 

then let us help you by showing you all the traditional 

and latest modern innovations. 

We can do this by using our vast knowledge of 

products and specifications from our thousands 

of installations. 

In the last 6 years we have established ourselves 

as the chosen local supplier of plantation shutters. 

In that time we have become Master licensed 

partner with the leading shutter manufacturers 

which historically supplied John Lewis. So, we can 

bring you top quality products for a fraction of the 

cost. We work with all the top brands like Harlequin, 

Sanderson, Romo, Scion, Today Interiors, Cole 

& Son, Villa Nova, Silent Gliss, Luxaflex, Orla Kiely 

and many more and also our mid range selection of 

hundreds of fabric and blind designs. We operate 

throughout North Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and 

the surrounding counties. 

Nina is experienced in retail interiors and we can 

co-ordinate our shutters and products with your 

interior design depending on your needs and budget. 

Matthew Blythe, our managing director, is a full member 

of the CIOB. (Chartered Institute of Building) 

Our personal service means we provide a free home 

visit and measuring service, allowing you to view 

samples in the comfort of your own home. 

So don’t be led astray by National companies offering 

massive discounts and customer service as you will 

learn that these are not true. Ask real people like our 

hundreds of referrals for there experience of your local 

family Shutter, Blinds and Curtains business. 

Check out our reviews on Facebook (over 2100 likes) 

For more information please contact 

Impact Interiors 

01462 860 082 

www.impact-interiors.co.uk 



19

SCENE BY YOU 

Your chance to share your favourite photos 

Submit your photo for the next edition 

www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/myphotos 

1 

4 

2 

5 

3 

A big thanks to this month’s submissions 

20 Advertising deadline for August - 10th July- visit www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

Andy N Belinda 

Henlow Village - Millenium Green 

Katrina Bradley 

Beautiful sunset over Henlow 

Kiea Kavanagh 

The lake over in the fields near Hospital Road, Arlesey 

Neil Ansell 

Blue Tits about to fledge, Lower Stondon 

Trina Davidson 

Beautiful countryside that will soon be gone


21

wildlife 

WHAT A WONDERFUL MONTH FOR WI 

Have you ever been to Jordans Mill? It is lovely, not just for the great food and a place to relax, but fo 

Cygnets with their parents splashing about and 3 little Egrets paddling around looking for a fish to ea 

hope that a fish will swim out and they can eat it. They also have a lovely meadow which in a few we 

of butterflies, damsel flies and dragon flies will be seen like the Banded Demoiselle, the male is blu 

looking out for, you may also see a moth called a Six Spot Burnet Moth, they have a black body and 

You may also want to keep an eye in your own gardens, with most of the birds having young, you see 

of noise to attract their parents’ attention. The birds do need our help this time of year, putting out 

hours and getting nothing. Be it sunflower hearts, suet fat balls or an old scone or cake, they will no 

Some birds have funny habits like a Carrion Crow in my mum’s garden. It picks up bits of cake and b 

like a soup by the time it has eaten most of it. 

If your a keen Birdwatcher like me, you will be pleased to know that this Summer a small group of W 

be around. It is wonderful news because the only other ones are up in Scotland and that is an extrem 

Through my Birdwatching Group we had a great weekend away last week (Bank Holiday Weekend) to 

just south of Scarborough. It has a visitor centre and about seven platforms for you to watch the bird 

seen one before and I was not disappointed. At the first platform I stood and watched two of them 

eyes and the big orange feet. It was worth the wait. The other birds flying around the cliffs were bir 

rock about 2 finger widths wide, 80ft up a cliff face and are comfortable doing so, they have webbed 

Of all the birds I saw that weekend, the Gannets were the most astonishing, they have yellow heads, 

and around gliding, floating, swooping. I have a new favourite bird because of this, the Gannet. If you 

and fascinating doing that as they are flying around the skies of Yorkshire. 

I am not sure if any of you watch Springwatch, but if you do and you have a s 

of it and send it to us via www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/myphotos, if it is g 

22 Advertising deadline for June - 10th May- www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk

LDLIFE 


Mark Hogan 

Wildlife Writer & Photographer 

07769 666996 

mark.hogan@live.com 

r the wildlife too. I went along a few days ago, sat above the River Ivel on the decking and watched 5 

t for their lunch. They are fascinating birds to watch because they waggle their feet in the mud in the 

eks time will be teaming with life, the oxy daisies and summer flowers will be out and an abundance 

e and has a black band along the middle of its wings and the female is a bright green, they are worth 

red wings, they are pretty cool too. 

fluffy balls of feathers sitting on your bird table or in your gardens, mouth wide open creating a hell 

a little food for them or hanging bird feeders up helps the parents to get food without searching for 

t mind. 

read and puts it into a bird bath to damp it down and make it easier to swallow. The bird bath looks 

hite Tailed Eagles are going to be released on the Isle of Wight. Over 5 years at least 60 of them will 

ely long journey. I hope to go and see them at the end of the year. 

Yorkshire. A group of six of us booked a Hotel to go to a place called Bempton Cliffs, an RSPB reserve 

s. The birds you see depends on the time of year. I went to see a small bird called a Puffin, I had never 

on a ledge high up above the rocks, they are really stunning little things, the colourful beak, the red 

ds like Gannets, Kittiwakes, Razorbills and Guillemots. The astonishing thing is they sit on a piece of 

feet so how they do it, I do not know. 

blue eyes and white wings with a large black tip on each wing, they fly like a swift or swallow, around 

look on YouTube you can see videos of them diving into the sea to catch fish, they are just as graceful 

pecial visitor to your garden and you want to share it with us, take a picture 

ood we will put it in the next edition. 


23

puzzles 

The July edition 

CROSSWORD 

Answers on P27 


The 

Diddy Directory 

the guide to local trades & businesses 

cost effective, contract free advertising 

£20 

1 Area 

£30 

2 Areas 

Book your advert today - visit www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/diddy 25

local art 

THAT SPECIAL PERSON - 

THAT SPECIAL GIFT 


Annette Glenn 

and collective Artisans 

Artisans in the Yard 

FB@Artisansintheyard 

Have you ever been stuck for an ideal gift for your mum, husband, daughter or friend? Look no 

further! Pop along to Artisans in the Yard in Shefford to see gifts galore! Yes, you could make 

a quick road trip into town or to an out-of-town retail park. But the next time you need a gift for 

someone, try going local and visit Artisans In The Yard Gallery and see for yourself the amazing 

choice of paintings and gifts on offer! 

A regular turnaround period means exhibits are always fresh and current. Founder, Adrian 

Goulding of ‘Projects in Wood’, restores and renovates furniture. Paintings this month include 

encaustic wax by Val Oswick, alcohol inks by Annette 

Glenn, acrylics by Judith Wray, and mixed media from 

Irina Polis. Blacksmith Lucas Ling’s traditional wrought 

ironwork is also on display, together with Jo Dunne’s 

‘Natural Grace’ heavenly smelling candle products, and 

Henry Seebohm’s turned wood pieces. 

Previous exhibitors include Gwen Payne from Hitchin, 

who still paints at the grand old age of ninety, while 

animal sculptures by Jim Francis proved very popular, 

as did Karen Mangold’s artwork. Karen is well-known for 

her ‘Golden Hare’ painting, unveiled recently in Ampthill 

Park, which forms an iconic link with the Golden 

Hare described in Kit William’s novel. Last 

month, we also displayed beautifully glazed 

earthenware pieces by Anja Penger-Onyett, a 

gifted ceramicist. 

Last but by no means least you will find the 

in-house jeweller, Erika Price, who designs 

and creates beautiful silver jewellery. For earrings, 

think Erika, whose delicate butterfly wing 

earrings are everyone’s favourite! She will also 

make clip-ons on request. 

You will always find something different, 

interesting – and original! 

At Artisans In The Yard you will be sure to 

discover that unique something - not taken 

from a range designed by a manufacturer who 

supplies hundreds like it - but an original gift 

designed and created for that special person. 

Put ARTISANS IN THE YARD on 

your next SHOPPING TRIP 



27

WHAT’S ON GUIDE 

it’s a date 

What: Clifton Duck Race 

When: Friday 12th July 

Duck Race plus so much more - BBQ, bar, craft stalls, face 

painting, fairground ride, ice cream & popcorn, from 5:30pm 

@Clifton Cricket Club 

What: Langford Raft Race 

When: Saturday 6th July 

The Annual Langford Raft Race will take place before the 

Fete on Saturday 6th July, check FB for start time 

@LangfordRaftRace 

food, drink & markets 

What: 

Pop Up Tea Rooms 

When: Wednesday & Fridays 2-5pm 

Homemade cakes & scones, tea & coffee, to eat in or takeaway, 

afternoon teas (bookable), at Arlesey MUGA building 

What: Henlow Eat Feast 

When: Friday 5th July & 2nd Aug 

Great food, music, alcohol, child friendly, vegan & veggie, 

an array of international flavours. Millennium Field, Henlow, 

4-9pm. 

CLUBS, GROUPS AND SOCIETIES 

What: 

Stondon WI Evening 

When: Wednesday 17th July 

7:45pm, this month’s guest speaker is Gaye Illsley who will 

be giving a talk on “Power of Attorney”. 

What: Pins & Needles 

When: Thursdays 2pm 

Bring your needlework or knitting etc. & meet up with 

others who share your hobby, at the Arlesey Resource 

Centre 

SPORTS, HEALTH & WELLBEING 

What: Arlesey Indoor Short Mat Bowls 

When: Every Friday 

Equipment & lessons provided (please bring flat soled 

shoes), Arlesey Community Centre, 1:15pm for 1:30-4pm. 

Interested? Contact Neil - 01462 731228 

What: Clifton Farm Run 

When: Sunday 29th September 

5K & 3K Routes, Off-road (tracks/grass), Clifton Bury Farm, 

5K @11am, 3K @11.15am, £10 Adult, £5 Junior, entry form: 

www.clifton-beds.co.uk 

What: Henlow Netball Club 

When: Every Tuesday Evening 

Netball Training at Henlow Academy 7-8:30pm. Training 

costs £3.50. We always welcome new players! Contact Julie 

Hepburn 07766 492037 Juleshep82@yahoo.co.uk 

What: Boxing for Fitness Classes 

When: Wednesdays 7.30pm 

On the green at Henlow Pavilion. Please get in touch for 

more info and to book a space www.l-fit.co.uk 

What: Youth Cycling at RAF Henlow 

When: Every Saturday 

Available to all children aged 6-16, Saturday from 10am- 

12pm, to come along please contact Mark Bradley on 

07796 125996 

What: Callanetics exercise class 

When: Tuesday Evenings 

Toned muscles, Better shape, Stronger body! 

7pm-8.15pm every Tuesday evening. Henlow Methodist 

Church (High St, Henlow) Call Cathy 01462 811568 

What: Get Fit With Tessa 

When: Weekly Mon/Thurs 

Aerobic Classes, Mondays and Thursdays at 7:30pm at 

Clifton Community Centre, for further info contact Tessa 

on 07787 970810 www.getfitwithtessa.com 


MUSIC, DANCE & ENTERTAINMENT 

What: Comedy Night @ Henlow Bridge Lakes 

When: Thursday 4th July 

Comedy night supporting St. John’s Hospice, with Paul 

Revill, Zoe Lyons, Pete Firman and Mike Gunn, 8pm (food/ 

bar from 6pm) Tickets £10 01462 812645 

What: Tribute Festival @ Henlow Bridge Lakes 

When: Friday 5th & Saturday 6th July 

Henlow Tribute Festival 2019, Full weekend OR Day tickets 

available, contact booking team on 01462 812645 

What: Luna Animal Rescue Charity Music Festival 


Charity event at Fox and Duck, Stotfold. A family fun day - 

live bands, stalls, free bouncy castle, raffle, hot food & lots 

more. All proceeds to Luna. 

What: Take That Tribute Band 


Meppershall Village Hall 8pm til late 

Tickets £10 Contact Helen 07989 914941 

Proceeds for Amy & Friends (Cockayne Syndrome) 

What: 

Open Air Cinema (Arlesey) 


Cinema at Arlesey Recreation Ground: 2pm for Mary Poppins 

Returns, 7pm Bohemian Rhapsody. Tickets on sale: 

https://www.hiremyled.co.uk/book-tickets 

What: 

Revs and Rhythms 


Classic vehicles & live music for all the family. Bar & food 

or bring a picnic. Opens at 3pm, Live music from 4pm. 

Robert Bloomfield Academy, Shefford 

What: Michael Bublé Tribute Event 

When: Saturday 17th August 

Meppershall Village Hall 8 pm til late. Tickets £10 Contact 

Helen 07989 914941. Proceeds for Alzheimer’s Research 

family & Children 

What: 

Summer Celebrations Evening 

When: Friday 12th July 

Stondon Lower School present an evening of 

performances, bouncy castle, raffle, tombola, bar, 

fish & chips, ice cream van. 5-8pm. 

What: Arlesey Scouts open evening & AGM 

When: Tuesday 16th July 

Lots of exciting things to have a go at and find out what 

we do including BBQ, tents crafts, campfire cooking and 

pioneering. 

What: 

Baby Signing Classes 

When: Every Wednesday afternoon 

Baby Signing Classes at Henlow Pavilion. We teach BSL 

with puppets and songs. Contact Jules Hepburn 07766 

492037 Jules@thesigningcompany.co.uk 

What: 

family events 

When: Weekly 

Drop In Lego Club: Tues 3.30-5pm, Story & Craft: Fri 9:30 

OR Sat 10:30 £1.50, Rhyme Time: Weds (term time) 9:30- 

10.15am, at Arlesey Resource Centre. 

Running a 

local event? 

Promote it here? 

Simply submit your event at: 

www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/event 

*Community & Charity events Free of charge, small 

donation of £3 for business listings. 

All donations go to our nominated charity 


29

Welcome to our monthly feature: 

’Kid’s Got Talent’ 

The place where we showcase the 

amazing talents of local children. 

We hope this will help motivate and 

inspire other children to discover 

new sports and hobbies. 

Name: mason bradley 

Age: 11 

from: henlow camp 

Q. Please describe your talent. 

A. Cycling (Road, Track, MTB and Cyclocross) 

Q. How did you get involved with cycling? 

A. When we moved to Henlow I started riding 

with the Henlow Youth Cycling group and it 

has grown from there. 

Q. When do you practice and for how long? Are you a 

member at a club? 

A. I ride with Henlow Youth every Saturday for 2 

hours where we have structured coaching sessions, I 

also train at home on my turbo trainer and I enjoy my 

rowing machine too. I am a member at Icknield Road 

Club, but I also go out riding with Beds Road Club and 

Hitchin Nomads. 

Q. Where is your favourite place to cycle? Do you ever 

get the chance to race? 

A. I really enjoy the training sessions at RAF Henlow 

as we have a great road course that is really technical 

but my favourite place of all must be the velodrome. 

I have raced Cyclocross, Criterium and Closed-circuit 

Time Trial. 

Q. What is your greatest cycling achievement to date? 

A. I would probably say winning my first ever Time trial which was at Rockingham racecourse, 

that was a great feeling! 

Q. Who looks after your bikes in terms of maintenance and cleaning? 

A. My Dad takes care of the maintenance and I also help to clean the bikes, we are helped 

out by a company called Velo 21 which is a local company to where my Dad grew up, I have a 

discount code that will give anyone who orders 10% off their products. (discount code is ‘Supportmason’) 

Q. How much does it cost to participate in your sport? 

A. The most expensive thing about the sport are the bikes but Mum & Dad pay for these so I’m 

ok for now, it costs between £3 and £15 to enter races. 


Q. What are the main challenges you 

are up against participating in your 

sport? 

A. My biggest challenge is my eyesight, 

I am registered as visually impaired as 

I have a condition called Congenital 

Nystagmus, this means that my eyes 

are always moving, I call them disco 

eyes along with Severe Myopia which 

means that, what someone with normal 

vision sees at 20 meters I have to 

be around 5 meters to see it the same. 

This can sometimes make it interesting 

as when I get tired it gets worse. 

Q. Is your sport dangerous? Do you wear a 

helmet? 

A. Cycling can be dangerous if you don’t 

respect those that you ride with, I’ve been 

lucky so far that I haven’t had any bad 

crashes, but I always wear my helmet no 

matter how far I am going on my bike. 

Q. Do you have a cycling hero or an inspirational 

figure? 

A. This one is easy, there is a Paralympic 

track cyclist called Neil Fachie he also 

has a visual impairment like me, he rides 

a tandem with Matt Rotherham. He won 

a gold medal at the London Olympics, is 

the current world champion and world 

record holder, I’ve been lucky enough 

to speak to him and was invited to the 

Manchester velodrome where him and Team 

GB were training; that was an amazing day! 

Q. Do you dream of the Tour De France? 

A. I like watching the tour and to get to that level would 

be amazing! I really want to represent GB at the Olympics 

and bring home a gold medal though. That’s my main 

goal. 

*To find out more about Henlow Youth Cycling 

Facebook: Youth Cycling @ RAF Henlow 

or contact Mark Bradley on 07796 125996 

Does your child have an amazing talent? 

If so, please get in touch at admin@livinglifemagazine.co.uk 


31

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