Archived News
November 2007
Huge bill as councillor sues for libel
A bitter row about a radio antenna has shattered the peace in this quiet cul-de-sac in Eaton Bray, and left a family of four facing a hefty court bill.
On Monday a parish councillor was awarded "significant" damages after a judge decided his neighbours had launched an unnecessary personal attack during a planning dispute.
Recorder Lance Ashworth QC ruled that Councillor Ric Brand, of Mill End Close, had been unfairly victimisedby neighbours Paul and Sandra Dear when he applied to put the amateur radio equipment up in his back garden.
A letter sent by the Dears to other homes on the road made a number of personal allegations which the judge said were "designed deliberately to damage Mr Brand in the eyes of others."
It is believed the ruling cost Mr and Mrs Dear around £10,000 in damages and another £10,000 in court costs.
After the ruling Mr Brand said he plans to give a large chunk of the money to charity.
The 61-year-old parish councillor added yesterday: "I sincerely wish it hadn't happened, I didn't want this.
"It really has been a most horrible time for us, but obviously you can't allow somebody just to assassinate someone's character.
"There's nothing I've got to hide, so it's a pretty sorry state of affairs. It's a situation where this guy and his wife have just turned on us."
Source: Dunstable Today
Eaton Bray WI Report
Our President welcomed the members and two visitors to the November meeting, and our 86th birthday celebration with wine and birthday cake. Three members also had birthdays and received birthday cards.
The business consisted of plans for our Dunstable Group Christmas Evening, in which Eaton Bray will be performing 'our version' of Snow White.
Our vice president will lay a Poppy wreath at Eaton Bray War Memorial on Remembrance Sunday and also place a poppy cross on the Edlesborough memorial.
We will be supporting Luton Woman's Refuge as our Christmas charity, and items for this will be required at the December meeting.
With business finished we welcomed our guest speaker Rusty Goffe who spoke to us about his lifetime in show business. Rusty was born a dwarf and explained that there is still no medical explanation why this happens; adding that his brother is over six feet tall and both parents were a normal height. After leaving school, Rusty's ambition was to go into show business and he joined a band show performing at the end of Southsea Pier. On entering a talent competition, he was invited to join a variety show in London and worked in many of the West End theatres. Rusty started to audition for films in 1970 and landed his first film part in "Willy Wonker and the Chocolate Factory"; he went on to work alongside Hollywood stars in film blockbusters "Star Wars" and "Harry Potter". Also having roles in the TV comedies " 'Allo 'Allo" and "Are You Being Served?" Rusty is currently working in a Saturday morning children's TV show, and will shortly be performing in his thirty seventh pantomime - but alas not in our area.
Our next meeting is on 3rd December at 7.30pm in Eaton Bray Village Hall members and friends are always very welcome.
Source: Eaton Bray WI
Good Evans, what a do!
Do you remember, back in the summer, the search for relatives of the late Kenneth George Evans, of Eaton Bray? Linda Budd had asked Gazette readers for help, while she was researching the family tree of her partner, Richard Evans.
They had thought that Kenneth - Richard's uncle - had died in the Second World War.
Then they found out that in fact he survived the war, and died in 1995.
And Linda was trying to find out if Richard had any other family members in this area, with the help of our readers.
The couple were delighted to be contacted by relatives they had never met, after the mention in the Gazette.
Linda has now dropped me an email to say that they have all been in touch regularly by email and phone.
And at the weekend, she and Richard were invited to a big Evans family reunion in Eaton Bray, to celebrate several family landmark birthdays.
She said: "From our first introduction to our final farewell this afternoon, we were both given such a warm and genuine family welcome.
"Richard has now met an aunt he never knew he had, four of the five cousins and a whole host of other close relations.
"He has gone from being the only Evans family member left in our area to becoming a member of a large and warm extended family.
"Without the assistance of your paper, we may never have found them all."
Thanks to everyone who helped them to find their family.
Source: Anne O'Donoghue, Gazette Gossip, Dunstable Gazette, 28 November 2007
Youth Football: Eaton Bray Lions
EB Lions Girls U10 - 4
Woburn Lions Girls U10 - 1
EB kicked off and immediately took the initiative pushing into the opposition's half.
It was soon 1 nil to EB courtesy of a pass by Hannah to Melissa who went on a blistering run down the wing before cutting inside and scoring from the edge of the box.
Numerous attacks continued on the Woburn goal ending in a cross being headed in by Amber Wright. Strong team play continued by Sarah Jane, Misha and GoM Holly ensuring they maintained their lead. By half time it was three nil thanks to a great goal by Liberty.
The second half continued as the first with Georgia hitting the side netting before Amber Walsh scored. Woburn then started to fight back but were denied by some great saves from Megan. They finally scored towards the end of the match but this did not take the shine off a great team performance by the EB Lions.
Caddington Youth U11 - 2
EB Lions U11 - 4
Lions continued their winning run in this league cup round one encounter. However it was a lacklustre first half display.
Caddington took the lead and MoM Lions keeper Harry Rogers kept his team in the game with some sharp saves. Late in the half James Tate reacted quickly from a corner to fire in an equaliser. After the break the Lions found their form. Matt Glover scored a great solo goal and Scotty Mercer turned in a free kick to make it 3-1.
Caddington pulled one back before Scotty was brought down in the area and scored his second from the penalty spot. For the final quarter of the match Harry and defender Jakob Knappitt were both magnificent in ensuring the Lions did not concede another goal.
This was an excellent victory over higher division opposition and made it eight wins in a row for the Lions.
EB Lions U12 - 5
Westoning Recreation U12 - 2
In round two of the league cup EB Lions started with some electric play and a stunning four pass move, with great link play from Jake Higgs, led to James Pearce scoring a superb opener. However Westoning roared back and scored two good goals to finish the half on top. They could have been further ahead were it not for a brilliant Jack Bramston in Lions' goal.
The second half from Lions was much better and they equalised when Pearce slotted home. Jake Higgs struck a 25 yard free kick into the top corner and the Lions were rampant - top scorer Will Sanders finished neatly, before Nathan Sears dribbled through five players to complete a fantastic solo effort.
EB Lions U12 Girls - 0
Cranfield Colts U12 Girls - 4
An early goal against Lions wasn't deserved and they responded with some strong attacking play from Darcy and Hattie.
In midfield Megan and GoM Emily - were pushing forward for Lions looking for the equaliser that they deserved. Katie and Beth were strong in defence with some good saves from Shannon in goaI.
Lions made their substitutions of Devon, Elsa, Nancy and Abi during the first half and were unlucky to concede another goal before half time.
In the second half Lions continued trying to find a way through the Cranfield defence. It was bitterly cold with a strong wind but Lions kept going, showing support for each other all over the pitch. In the end Cranfield scored two more goals which did not reflect the chances that Lions had.
It is only a matter of time before the results start to show the team spirit and quality of play that Lions deserve.
Source: EB Lions
Eaton Bray Methodist Church
A reminder that our Christmas Lunches with festive stalls will be held on Saturday December 1st from 12.00 noon and the Charity to be supported will be the Rwanda Appeal.
Our Family Carol Service is on Sunday December 16th at 10.30 am. The young people of the Church will take part in the service and give us a fresh slant on the Christmas story, always a special time, do join us.
Once again we have a service on Christmas Day and we welcome you to this Celebration which will start at 10.30 am.
Our Covenant Service is on Sunday 6th of January at 10.30 am and will be led by our Minister the Rev; Peter Dudeney.
January Lunches will be served on Saturday 12th from 12.00 noon until 1.30pm and the Charity to be supported will be the Re-Building Fund of our Harlington Church.
February Lunches on Saturday 9th from 12.00 noon and our chosen Charity will be the FIBROMYALGIA group.
Source: Focus - December/January 2008
Eaton Bray Lions AFC
E. B. Lions AFC is a children's football club for the boys and girls living in and around the villages of Edlesborough, Eaton Bray, Dagnall and Northall.
We have ten teams this season, ranging from our Under 14's down to our newest U7's including two girls teams in the Under 10's and the Under 12's League.
This is providing competitive sport by qualified coaches to over 130 children! We are working hard to develop our players and teams into a successful and thriving Club and have FA qualified coaches running every team. Please look us up on our website which is being revamped as we speak - www.eblions.co.uk
Charter Standard Development Status
We are delighted to announce that EB Lions AFC, after much work by our coaches and committee, has won the coveted Charter Standard Development status via Beds FA. There are only 8 Charter Standard Development Youth Football Clubs in Bedfordshire.
This scheme is a core component of the FA Football Development programme. The scheme established minimum standards for football development and acts as a quality assurance mechanism recognising well run schools and clubs. As a benchmark for quality it will improve the playing experience for all.
The Charter Standard Scheme is a best practice guide that sets standards of coaching, administration and child protection for all clubs outside the Football League and Premier League. Youth Football Clubs are the heartbeat of football in this country.
That is why The FA Charter Standard club programme, which raises standards and recognises and rewards quality, is so important.
The FA Charter Standard Programme provides recognition that clubs are well run and sustainable, with child protection and safety paramount. It also recognises a club's commitment to coaching, player and coach development, and the raising of standards of behaviour in the game - all of which are big priorities for the Club and the FA.
Grant for new goalposts
With huge and much appreciated support from Eaton Bray Parish Council we have been able to purchase new steel 11-a-side goals at Holmans Field, Eaton Bray to continue the investment in high quality equipment and facilities. This was made possible by a grant from the Football Foundation and a significant contribution from the Parish Council.
Since 1991 nine young footballers have been killed in the UK by unsafe goals and many more have been seriously injured by posts and crossbars that fail to meet basic safety standards. The Football Foundation is funded by the Premier League, The FA, Sport England and the Government (visit www.footballfoundation.org.uk for more information).
The club is grateful for their assistance in helping to ensure the safety of our young players.
New Under 7's Team
Our 2008-9 season Under 7's have already held their first training session which was fantastic and there are clearly some able and skilful players. The interest, quality and skill levels were much higher than we expected and 3 or 4 players in particular caught the eye - indeed all the trainees looked very good. If we are able to attract 3 or 4 more school year 1 players we will be able to form two teams, which is our aim. This will enable all players to play regular football and ensure we have sufficient experience when 11-a-side football starts at Under 11.
Year 1 pupils at Dagnall, Edlesborough, Eaton Bray and Studham schools have already received invitation letters to join us at EB Lions. If your child did not attend the first training session and is interested in playing for the club please contact Liz Coates (see below). Please note to be considered, players need to be no older than 6 years old on 31st August 2008 i.e. all year 1 children are eligible.
Adrian Bush and Tim Sanders will run the second informal training session on Saturday 1st December at 9.30am on Edlesborough Green for one hour.
Other Club News
There are a number of other exciting announcements to make:-
- We have appointed a fitness coach, Nick Bramston, who has gained an expanded version of the FA Level 1 coaching badge. He will work with all our 10 teams to improve fitness and agility at all levels.
- We have appointed a Head Coach, Lewis Taylor, to help new coaches to the Club learn the ropes and the game.
- We have established a 5 year plan that includes increasing the number of teams to 18 over 5 years and seeking a suitable site for an all weather floodlit training pitch.
- We hope to secure substantial Football Foundation and Sport England funding for this once we have identified a suitable location - please help us with this if you can!
- We are expanding our number of 7-a-side and 11-a-side pitches to 8 next season.
Thank you to Dagnall Village Hall Committee for allowing the Club the use of Dagnall pitch this season and hopefully for many years to come.
-- Liz Coates, Press Officer, EB Lions AFC (01442 842550)
Source: Focus, December/January 2007
Youth Football: Eaton Bray Lions
EB Lions U8 Blues - 2
Memorial Park U8 - 2
Leaving last week's game firmly behind, Lions looked set to dismantle their opposition from the whistle. Menacing shots from Matt Kennell and Robert Bunting tested the Memorial Park keeper, until a burst of attacking play from Connor Tough, skipping past defenders, evading the tackle, culminated in the opening goal.
Lions' back line was held strong by determined trio Bradley Hicks, Sam Bramston and Jack Reynolds, compounded by the usual accomplished efforts of keeper Ollie Mulcahy. While constrained by the Lions' robust defence and Daniel Challis's dominating presence in midfield, an undeterred Memorial Park managed to equalise following a penalty after the break.
A game which looked to be going the Lions' way turned as Memorial Park scored again with five minutes left. Home fans endured a torrid time as Lions rallied and a gifted run by Matt found MoM Toby McGee, who levelled the match with a deftly placed shot in the remaining seconds.
Luton Borough Dragons U8 Blues - 1
EB Lions US Reds - 6
Lions started the game looking sharp and after five minutes Harrison got them off to a great start with a goal, followed by another 5 minutes later.
Lions kept pushing forward and five minutes later Dax got their third. The Dragons scored and then Dax got his second just before half time to end the half 4-1 up.
Lions made their substitutions during the second half and kept pushing forward with all the pressure coming from the Lions; 15 minutes into the second half Dax got his third to complete his hat trick. Then in the last minute George scored to complete a 61 victory.
Jack Nevitt won MoM for a very good all round performance.
This week's goal scorers were Dax Roe 3, Harrison Ambrose 2 George Oliver 1.
EB Lions U11 - 5
Sundon Park Rangers U11 - 1
Lions got off to a great start, taking the lead after two minutes. MoM Matt Glover played a perfect pass through to Scotty Mercer who slipped the ball past the keeper.
Two minutes later the Lions doubled their lead when William Poole was brought down in the area following a mazy run. William blasted in the penalty himself.
Halfway through the first half Matt G scored the Lions' third firing in following a corner.
Early in the second half Sundon pulled a goal back but the Lions restored their three goal lead a minute later. James Tate lifted the ball over the defence and Matt Bramston scored for the seventh straight game. With a couple of minutes remaining Matt B scored his second rising to head in William's free kick.
Every player played their part in a great team performance to make it seven wins in a row.
Woburn Lions U12 - 2
EB Lions U12 - 5
On a bitterly cold morning the two Lions met in the County Cup. First strike went to EB with a superb solo goal from Will Sanders for his 16th of the season.
Woburn grabbed an equaliser just before half time.
Just after the break Woburn won a penalty only for EB's Jack Bramston to make a stunning save. EB Lions increased the pressure and super striker James Pearce scored his 192nd club career goal before winger Jake Higgs scored two quick goals.
Woburn pulled one back before man of the match Nathan Sears rounded off a great team performance with a 20 yard strike.
EB Lions U14 - 4
Brickhill Wanderers U14 - 1
Wanderers put an early shot wide which galvanised Lions into action. A long throw from Moriarty landed at the feet of ScottLewis who struck it into the net.
Lions scored a second from a corner when an inadequate clearance by Wanderers was pounced upon by Thiel. Crace made several promising attacks for Lions without success and towards the end of the first half Wanderers rallied and pulled a goal back.
In the second half Crace's persistence paid off when Wanderers' goalie found his shot just too high to stop. Wanderers never eased up on the pressure and forced Lions' goalie, Cavendish, to make some brave dives.
Finally Dear scored Lions' fourth with an impressive first touch curling shot which sailed over everybody into the top corner. This was a wonderful team performance by Lions against hard-working opponents. Lions' man of the match was defender Andy Broughton.
Source: EB Lions
Eaton Bray Lawn Tennis Club
Another mammoth month for EBLTC: Our third court is painted and in use, our club Final's day saw some amazing wins, a joint Quiz night with the Village hall committee raised over £700 for the club, and our membership has risen again to almost 150, the highest ever in our 19 year history. That's now one member for every 17 villagers, so yes we are slowly taking over the village and at this rate we aim for world domination by next summer (if we get one). We might need a bigger clubhouse though, and I hope Hines can ramp up to supply that many burgers for our barbecues.
The sun shone brightly on our club Final's day, the culmination of several months of knock-out rounds, and the aforementioned barbecue sizzled succulently as once more our 48 menu options were hungrily devoured by players and supporters alike. I'm not sure that Darren Kerins should have had 3 burgers and a hotdog before going on court to play his Men's singles final, but clearly the calories counted as he beat Kevin Todd to take his 10th singles title and incredibly his 20th title overall including 5 men's doubles and 5 mixed doubles over the years. Kevin took revenge later though, winning his 7th Men's Doubles title when he partnered Peter Hill to overcome Darren and Martin Clarke. Jenny Baines closed in on Darren's total by defeating Rebecca Garrard in the Ladies Singles to take her 11th title, and in so doing matched the previous club record for a lady held by Jenny Moore. Jenny's husband Wayne has 12 titles and is 2nd overall in the club. In the Ladies Doubles Jane Cross and Val Abercrombie got the better of Jane Wigley and Danielle Tansley to take their 'title totals' to 8 and 4 respectively, whilst in the final senior match, the Mixed Doubles, Jane Cross made it 9 titles and Peter Hill claimed his 2nd by taking victory over Janet Hale and Simon Mitchener.
We also enjoyed 2 fascinating Junior competitions; the Under 10s culminated in Isaac Gordon just overcoming Jacob Shooter to take the cup. In the Over 10s, William Peck narrowly beat Alison Lowe in a closely fought match; definitely 2 potential stars for the future. I wonder if one of them will eventually overtake Darren's total of 20 titles? Not if I get there before them, but then I still need my first and I haven't entered for about 5 years and I don't have a forehand and I'm 35 years older than them but where there's hope there's a way. Oh did I mention my weight?
The Quiz night held jointly with the Village Hall committee was another resounding success with 155 people organised into strangely named teams, competing against one another to answer peculiar questions such as 'what is sturnutation'? and 'name the land-locked countries of South America'? The answers got progressively harder as the evening progressed on an exponential scale with the amount of 'bring your own drink' consumed. By round 8 after a wholesome paté and salad dinner, most of my team had trouble even seeing the quizmaster let alone understanding the questions, and we even got 'what time is news at ten?' wrong, and nobody knew 'in the 1976 Irish sheepdog trials, how many dogs were found guilty'? Nonetheless, we came a credible 9th equal (out of 10 I think) so went home happy, not surprising based on the empties we left in the recycling bag. Oh and apparently the answers to the above were 'Sneezing', 'Bolivia', 'Paraguay', '10pm' and 'all of them', but not necessarily in that order.
Finally we'd like to thank the Village Fete committee for taking pity on us after our over-easy 'tennis ball through-the-hole' stall (and all my subsequent moaning) and donating £100 to the club. Thank you, it was much appreciated. We'll spend it on some decent prizes for next time, and a new box with a smaller hole. Or bigger balls, or possibly all three. Or maybe we'll all just go to the pub.
Source: Focus, November 2007
Eaton Bray builds on Ofsted achievement
Eaton Bray Lower School enjoyed a double celebration on Friday, after receiving an outstanding Ofsted report and seeing work start on its new preschool unit.
Ofsted inspector Mrs Sue Aldridge, described the school, with 94 pupils ranging from four to nine years old, as being one of the very best.
The school received outstanding Grade Ones in nearly all the categories, only dropping points on attendance of learners. Overall effectiveness, Achievement and standards, personal development and wellbeing, and the quality of provision all received top marks.
Mrs Aldridge said: "Pupils' outstanding achievement is linked to the excellent teaching, the most enjoyable curriculum and the high-quality support and guidance that pupils receive.
"The school provides an outstanding quality of education and care for its pupils and staff work exceptionally well in partnership with parents and the community for the benefit of all pupils. Pupils' enjoyment of school is impressive and leadership and management are outstanding. The headteacher's vision for a school at the heart of its community is shared by the highly committed staff and excellent governors. This is set to become more firmly realised with the building of a new nursery with facilities for the local community and visiting professionals from children's services.
"There is no complacency in the school, but a continuous drive for improvement."
Headteacher Sue Hounslow said: "We are delighted that everyone's hard work has been recognised. We have a very special dedicated team at Eaton Bray - we love coming to work! The support we receive from our governors, Home School Association and parents is crucial.
"Our children are given a voice and listened to so they have respect for School and enjoy their time here. As from April next year, more children will be able to do so!
"It is a very exciting time at Eaton Bray Lower School. Our nursery is being built as we speak! It's a resource for the whole village, and is a very innovative building, specially designed for us by one of our governors."
Source: Leighton Buzzard Observer, 13 November 2007
Stable conversion goes to appeal
A new move is being made to try to win the planning go-ahead to convert stables in Eaton Bray.
In August, South Beds District Council rejected the idea of converting the stables into a residential dwelling.
Now an appeal has been lodged to try to overturn that decision on the application for the Dyers Road stables.
The appeal will be decided through written representations and a site visit from a planning inspector. Anyone who would like to see the grounds of appeal can do so at the district council offices, in High Street North, during normal working hours.
Comments can be made in writing. Three copies of any written representations should be sent to: The Planning Inspectorate, 3/16 Eagle Wing, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN.
Comments should include the reference APP/N0220/A/07/2056120 and the name of the person who has lodged the appeal, Mrs M. Lay.
Written representations must be received by December 11.
They can only be considered if copies are also forwarded to the person appealing, before the above date.
Source: Dunstable Gazette, 14 November 2007
Youth Football: Eaton Bray Lions
Brache Sparta U8 - 10
EB Lions U8 Blue - 1
An ill-deserved scoreline if ever there was one! A shortage of players forced Lions to play out of their usual positions, but a gritty team emerged to take on a formidable side.
In the opening minutes keeper Ollie Mulcahy was kept busy as Sparta poured the ball forward at every opportunity.
Five goals landed before Lions decided they were not content to sit back and absorb the pressure.
A battling display followed, defenders Jack Reynolds, Daniel Challis and Sam Bramston fighting to counter the opposition's driving play. It wasn't all one way traffic, some impressive runs courtesy of midfielders Connor Tough and Robert Bunting testing the opposition.
Lions looked set to make a comeback in the second half as Toby McGee rounded the Sparta defence, finding David Wood who completed, at last bringing the Lions onto the scoreboard.
The tide turned, Lions successfully defending their goal up until the last five minutes.
Crawley Green Tigers - 1
EB Lions U8 Reds - 7
Away against second place in the league, Lions needed to get a good result. Playing against a fairly strong wind, it was hard to get going and then Crawley Green scored.
From the centre Lions tried a shot straight at goal and it nearly worked, it took the keeper by surprise and he only just held on to it. With five minutes to go, Karl scored the well deserved equaliser.
With only one substitution to make at half time it meant that Lions started strongly and after five minutes Hard put Lions in the lead. Then soon after, with four goals in nine minutes, from Dax who was also MoM, Lions were in a great position and playing a good passing game.
The defence stayed solid and another goal from Hard in the last minute secured Lions' huge win.
This week's goalscorers were Dax Roe 4, Harri Ambrose 2, Karl Shrowder 1.
Barton Rovers Gunners U10 - 1
EB Lions U10 - 1
Lions again proved it within their capabilities to ameliorate a humble league ranking, turning in one of their most potent displays yet against the nimble Gunners.
Forced to endure two early corners, defenders James and Ben scrabbled to clear the first before a second looped in, on-target but expertly palmed over the crossbar by outstanding keeper Dan.
Following the break, attackers Dominic, Sean and Adam, supported by Tom and Charlie, made the pitch their own, slotting neat passes between the Barton defence and opening up tantalising shooting opportunities. With regularity the ball was cleared by James and MoM Ben, Aarin making relentless progress from end to end, ultimately spearing a shot inches above the bar.
It would be ten minutes in though before Chris set up Dominic to put the Lions ahead.
Although Barton would grab one back before full time the match would end as Lions' most accomplished performance this season.
Luton Leagrave U11 - 2
EB Lions U11 - 3
Lions made it six wins in a row, but this was a tough match in a very strong wind. The Lions deserved to take the lead halfway through the first half.
MoM Ben Flitton took a quick throw and the ball was worked across to an unmarked Matt Bramston who fired home.
Harry Rogers made a fantastic save when a Luton striker was through on goal, but Luton equalised later in the half.
At the start of the second half the Lions took the lead again when top scorer Matt scored his second of the match from a corner. Luton hit back immediately to level again.
The Lions piled on the pressure for the next 25 minutes and finally scored the winner when Scotty Mercer volleyed in another perfect corner from William Poole. The boys showed great determination to keep their winning run going.
Aylesbury Athletic U12 - 4
EB Lions U12 - 2
The start of the game saw a great team effort from Jake, Nathan and Will that resulted in a superb first goal for EB.
Aylesbury capitalised on a free kick and soon scored the equaliser. Both teams continued to display some great passing and defensive play.
Just before half time, Aylesbury gained control of the ball and made a superb run up the field and powered the ball into the back of the net.
The second half saw some great defensive play from Haydn and several near misses on goal from the Lions.
Aylesbury were continually hungry for the ball and outmanoeuvred EB's goalie to score. Aylesbury made another chase up the pitch, played a long ball and scored again.
Just before the final whistle a great shot on goal through several players by Declan improved EB's score.
Sacred Heart - 1
EB Lions U12 Girls - 0
This was the third away match out of four and Lions were playing what turned out to be the top of the league.
They started strongly and could have gone into the lead with strong shots from Darcy and Hattie bringing some good saves out of the Sacred Heart keeper.
Lions reserve keeper Nancy made some great saves, she was confident and came out of the goal well to keep a strong attack at bay until half time.
At half time Lions made more substitutions to try and find a combination that would enable them to find a way through their defence and score the goal that the team deserved but against the run of play Sacred Heart scored. Megan, Emily, Devon and Darcy, who was GoM in midfield, pushed forward strongly and Hattie and Elsa looked to score the goal they deserved.
The defence of Katie, Beth and Abbie stayed solid the whole game.
This was a great team effort and if they continue to play with the same attitude and confidence they will soon start to get the results that they deserve.
EB Lions U14 - 0
Woodside Rovers U14 - 4
An eagerly anticipated third round county cup match saw Woodside progress to the last 16.
Woodside started strongly with a free-kick and two shots missing the target.
Edmonds, Jell, Stiles and Callahan were a different midfield line up and found it hard to find Sciascia and McGarvey up front. Lions' Thiel, MoM Dear, Lancefield and O'Connor in defence worked hard to contain Woodside's attacks.
Woodside reverted to playing the long ball over the top and the deadlock was broken when a well taken corner from Jell met with the head of O'Hara.
Coates, for Lions, made a good run up the left wing, but there was nobody to take advantage of his cross.
Ten minutes into the second half a defensive error by Lions gifted an easy goal to Jell following an attack by Davies and JonesWilliams.
Lions' attacks were not penetrating enough and Woodside scored again when even the defence joined with MoM Sage-Passant and O'Hara bringing the ball forward found Jell again for number three.
Lions' Scott-Lewis broke through Woodside's defence, but was brought down and the resulting penalty was kicked over the bar much to the relief of keeper Cherry.
Simons and Arscott-Smith for Woodside had menacing runs down the wing and finally, a fumble by Lions' goalie allowed Jell to nick another easy goal for his hat-trick.
Source: EB Lions
'Destruction' of the Downs
Angry Gazette readers have been complaining that improvement work on Dunstable Downs is spoiling the acclaimed beauty spot.
In the firing line are the Chilterns Gateway Centre area-and the work to create the new pathway over the Downs.
One protector has said that it is all leading to the "urbanisation" of the beauty spot.
The Gazette this week put the readers' comments to Beds County Council and the National Trust.
Now the organisations, both involved in the Chilterns Gateway Project, have strongly defended the work that has been carried out.
One of the irate Gazette readers is Denis Hawkes, of Eaton Bray, who wrote: "I have seethed with rage and frustration as I've viewed with horror the unprecedented and unnecessary intrusive development of Dunstable Downs, my once-favourite ex-beauty spot."
He described the new Chilterns Gateway Centre as "a ghastly glass warehouse" which he said seemed to serve no purpose, other than to try to attract "indoor people" to an outdoor spot, and sell them "twee, over-priced tack".
Mr Hawkes said that "the urbanisation" continued with large areas of paving, tarmac, lighting poles and other items.
He also complained that parking meters would deter people from visiting the Downs.
Another reader, Linda Madden, of Dunstable, complained about the work going on to create the new path on the Downs.
Her letter said: "I feel compelled to write about the destruction that is happening at present on Dunstable Downs."
She complained that the work was spoiling the natural habitat, and that many people already walked up to the Downs "without the need of man's intervention".
And she claimed that work on the new pathway had involved digging at least six feet down at certain points.
She was concerned about the effect on wildlife, too, and was doubtful about whether the pathway would encourage people to leave their vehicles at home.
One of the aims of the new pathway is to make sure that everyone can have the chance to visit the Downs, without using their vehicles.
Another important aim is the hope that carefully planned new routes for visitors will help to safeguard the chalk grassland.
The county council told the Gazette yesterday that the new multi-user route will actually benefit local wildlife.
Meanwhile, the National Trust said that the former visitors' centre was inadequate, and the new cafe and shop are very popular with many people.
And he said that more people are helping out with volunteer activities, and spoke of the community work involving the Downs.
Visitors' centre 'has helped engagement with new audiences'
National Trust area manager Philip Broadbent-Yale this week highlighted the reasons behind the development of the new visitors' centre on Dunstable Downs.
He said: "The condition of the previous centre, with inadequate toilets, no protection from the elements for people enjoying their food, inadequate seating and interpretation was of concern to visitors and partners from the AONB Office (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), Bedfordshire County Council and the National Trust.
"The new centre has certainly helped, improve facilities for all our visitors and helped engagement with new audiences.
"We have seen an increase in the number of people helping us with volunteer activities, There are now Healthy Walks being organised from the centre by the Groundwork Trust, and the county council are funding a community officer working in Dunstable and Luton.
"We have received grant aid to improve the interpretation and this will be completed March 2008. With almost 100,000 transactions already since March this year at the cafe and shop, it is clearly a very popular site for many people.
Beds county councillor Bob King, cabinet member for community services, talked yesterday about the work being carried out to create the new multi-user pathway on the Downs.
He said: "The excavations and work are being scrutinised by Albion Archaeology, who are recording what is found, and this has given us the chance to raise public awareness.
"A good example of how we are working together is that old, sunken trackways were discovered only because we created the new route.
"They show people have been using the line of the route for centuries.
"The depth of parts of the excavations is necessary to reduce the gradients to a satisfactory level. There are many people who cannot access the site as it currently is, the less able including those in wheelchairs, older people, members of the public with pushchairs, etcetera.
"There are also those who do not currently use the site but may do so in the future, such as the 'indoor types' one of your readers refers to.
"With all the current attention on childhood obesity and lifestyle induced health issues, we have a responsibility to provide opportunities for everyone to enjoy the benefits of access to the countryside.
"All projects of this type and scale will have an inevitable impact, but the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term ones.
"A full environmental assessment was carried out as part of the planning application, with input and guidance from English Nature, now Natural England, and others.
"Placing the route where there are existing scars means that erosion will be reduced in the future.
"The route also gives us the opportunity to get people out onto the Downs to learn about landscape, conservation, ecology and history, as well as providing an opportunity for exercise.
"The scheme will be of benefit to local wildlife, and English Nature, the Wildlife Trust and others were consulted prior to the work being carried out.
"The National Trust has a wealth of experience in managing chalk grassland sites for the benefit of people and wildlife.
"By hopefully reducing erosion and keeping visitor pressure away from the most vulnerable sections of chalk grassland, the route will help conserve it.
"Scrub removal is beneficial on chalk grassland sites because scrub is invasive and reduces botanical and animal interest.
"The site has a plan which aims to balance the management of chalk grassland with the need to maintain a variety of diverse habitats, including scrub."
And he added: "There are obvious benefits to leaving the car at home - health, less congestion, reduced vehicle emissions and better quality of life for local people."
Source: Dunstable Gazette, 7 November 2007
Parish Council Minutes - November 2007
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Tuesday 6th November 2007
The next Parish Council meeting to be held at the Coffee Tavern on Monday 3rd December 2007 at 7.30pm.
Salvation Sound - November 2007
Carbon Footprints......
Where have all the flowers gone?
Weedkillers taken everyone.
Where have the butterflies gone?
Insecticide killed them everyone.
Where have all the fish gone?
Deep sea trawling caught each one.
Where are the whales? The dolphins at play?
Why, margerine and zoo exhibits took them away.
Animals and birds of the air,?
We took their lives for clothes to wear.
Forests burnt, or in decline,
Habitats, gone for all of time.
No more are lakes and streams
Filled with water, crystal clear,
For effluents from factories
Are dumped, haphazardly here.
Was the serpent part of God's plan,
When it tempted Eve,
And showed her the evil heart of man.?
Murder, and drugs, the way of today,
Man killing man, pain and scars
That will never go away.
Once, long ago, this earth was fair,
'Twas man brought about the wear and tear.
It must be stopped, before it's to late;
Before man himself suffers our sad earth's fate.
This world was entrusted to our carev
That its beauty all could share;
Our inheritance, this Eden,
All that we hold dear
Causes me to shed a tear,
You and I can ease the worlds pain
If on our lifes journey we would learn
How to show our love and how to feel concern.
Pollution is all about us...we all know it....
In cities across the world people are wearing face masks against the fumes from vehicle exhausts. We have dirty, trash littered streets, acid rain, global warming, polar ice caps are melting. Deserts are growing ! - vegetation isn't. We are slowly destroying the world in which we live.
God made this world, He entrusted it to our care. He said it was "Very good". Ask yourself is it so good now ?. The Bible says "The earth is defiled by its people". God says "Do not defile the land where you live" and yet we continue in our selfish ways. We pollute not only the land but ourselves as well, for however small a sin is, it damages our hearts, and because of this, the sense of turmoil that we often experience can lead to destruction. God sent Jesus to die for us that we might be cleansed and forgiven of our sins. - surely then we must all become more caring, more loving, more vigilant, for then we will be aware of our surroundings, ourselves, and the damage we do daily. Pollution - think to yourself "How can I help to effect a cure" - then act upon it.....
"If my people, which are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
Source: Focus, November 2007
Quiz Question - What Animal Lives in a Holt?
Yes, on Friday 5th October, 171 people sat comfortably in Eaton Bray Village Hall to hear the Super Quizmaster, Keith Blackburn, ask that very question. We all sat and thought! Was it a beaver, was it a badger - no it's an otter!
At this event, the fourth joint effort organised by Eaton Bray Tennis Club and the Village Hall Fund Raising Committee, we raised a staggering £1,400.00, which was split equally between the two groups.
The Tennis Club have three newly re-surfaced courts and the Village Hall nice new toilets! Well, from Monday 8th October they did. Unfortunately, despite everyone's best efforts they were not completed until 48 hours after the quiz. However, they are really nice, so do go and try them out next time you are in the Hall!
The Village Hall has also benefited from two Grants. The 1st was £5000 from South Beds Village Hall Grant Scheme and this has gone towards the toilets. The 2nd Grant of £37,000 from WREN has been promised towards our next project. This will be the re-furbishing of the kitchen, meeting room and the creation of a new disabled toilet, along with replacing the roofing above these areas. This will cost approximately £50,000, so you can see that we still need to raise more than £12,000 by next June.
This project will complete the essential refurbishments to bring our Hall into the 21st Century.
So please keep supporting us. The next event is being run by the Villagers and is a Race Night on Friday 16th November 2007. Tickets are £7.50, please contact Graham Chappell for tickets and more details.
In December the GI's will be helping Dunstable Round Table with their Christmas Float. Some of the proceeds will come back to the Village Hall. It's really great fun going round with Santa and seeing the children's eyes light up. Any extra volunteers will be very welcome. Those of you who are interested, please contact me (Ross Bagni) on 01525 221411.
Lastly, by popular demand, we are holding another Joint Quiz with the Tennis Club on 26th April 2008. So, as we sold out again in October, please book your place early.
Thanks for all your support. Ross Bagni
Source: Focus, November 2007
Any Gurney Connection?
Born and brought up in Dunstable, little did I realise until very recently that one side of my family came from Eaton Bray and were in fact part of the Gurney clan.
My great great grandfather Thomas Stevens married Elizabeth Gurney at Eaton Bray Parish Church in December 1849. Elizabeth was a local girl and in the 1841 census she was living at Church End, Eaton Bray with her parents - father Matthew (aged 40), mother Sarah (also 40) and her siblings Mary, William and Anne. When she married Thomas it looks like she had two children already, Naomi and Priscilla and by 1851 she, her two children and Thomas were living in the Comp and he was a shepherd. They also had three children together, Jesse, Sarah and Edward and it is Sarah Stevens who is my great grandmother.
I then found the family had moved to Dunstable by 1861 and were living at the Rising Sun public house in Edward Street.
I just wondered if there was anyone else who might be doing some family history work and had found that they have any connections with this branch of the Gurney family - or even the Stevens'. If so I would love to hear from you (please use the contact page).
Source: Focus, November 2007
Christmas Fayre
St Mary's Church will be holding a Christmas Fair in Eaton Bray Village Hall on Saturday 17th November between 12.30pm and 2.30pm.
You can enjoy a Ploughman's Lunch, buy a cake for tea, win a prize in the raffle and do some early Christmas shopping without leaving the village! This year we are also expecting a visit from Santa Claus so do bring the children along.
Any contributions for the chocolate tombola, cake stall, recycled presents stall or the raffle would be very welcome. Please contact Peter Bennett.
Source: Focus, November 2007
Youth Football: Eaton Bray Lions
EB Lions U8 Blues - 2
EB Lions U8 Whites - 0
The agile U8 Blues went two for two with an impressive win over their village counterparts in an anticipated derby match.
The Whites fought from the outset but were outgunned as the Blues hogged possession for a chunk of the game. Several searing shots sliced just off-target or else were absorbed by accomplished keeping; an impressive header from Toby McGee brushed the post, while David Wood and Robert Bunting made imposing progress.
Any Blues player could have scored, with shots driven forward by Daniel Challis and Sam Bramston. Ultimately Connor Tough placed a neat ball between the keeper's feet before the break, a lead consolidated in the second by Matt Kennell, powering in a decisive ball after ten minutes.
Guarding the Blues' net, Ollie Mulcahy made short work of occasional incoming shots, but a challenging task was ameliorated by outstanding defensive work courtesy of Jack Reynolds and Bradley Hicks.
EB Lions U8 Reds - 3
AFC Luton U8 - 1
In the quarter final of the League Cup Lions went one down after two minutes. Once Lions had got over the early goal they settled down and started to play some really good football.
Nearly all the pressure was coming from Lions with shots hitting the post, bar and near misses for most of the first half.
Just before half time Dax Roe scored a well deserved equalizer and Lions could have scored again before the break.
Lions started the second half by pushing forward and trying to find a way through a packed defense. After five minutes Dax scored his second and three minutes later Lee Saunders (MOM) got Lions' third. Lions were totally in control of the game and again hit the post and bar many times.
This was a great team effort with some strong individual performances. Lions passed well and moved the ball quickly.
EB Lions U10 - 2
Lewsey Centre U10 - 1
An unseasonably dazzling November morning submitted to more appropriately drab conditions as Lions got underway, looking to brighten their league status vs. Lewsey Central on Saturday.
Possession was divided equally between the two versatile sides for much of the opening half, with good forward work from Dominic and Adam, as well as some agile progress courtesy of Chris and Thomas.
Once again Aarin and Ben proved their worth, nabbing the ball at every opportunity and making decisive plays towards the Lewsey end, but it was MoM Charlie's moment of glory midway through that put the Lions in front for the first time this season.
Lewsey were down but not out, stealing a goal back after the break, threatening to overturn the score. Stunning saves from Dan, though, held their tally at one, and when debut scorer Mason slotted home a shot in the closing minutes the victory was sealed.
EB Lions U11 - 7
Clifton U11 - 0
The Lions started slowly but once Jayden Newman fired them into the lead after twenty minutes they dominated the remainder of the match.
The second goal came when Matt Glover's pass into the area was turned past his own keeper by an unfortunate Clifton defender. The Lions scored their third of the half when Ben Flitton headed in a corner.
After the break Jayden scored his second shooting in from the right. Matt G's great run and cross set up Scotty Mercer to score the fifth. Matt Bramston scored the next with a trademark finish after being released through on goal.
The last goal was the best, Jayden - completing his hat trick with some great skill followed by a terrific volley into the top corner.
A superb team performance from the Lions, with the added bonus of a clean sheet. MoM was Matt Glover who was outstanding in midfield.
Barton Rovers U12 - 1
EB Lions U12 - 3
Only five minutes into the first half and a solid pass from Lions' Nathan to Will S enabled Will to out-manoeuvre the keeper to score.
Lions continued to put pressure on Barton making several attempts on goal. Their patience paid off after James took control of the ball, turned and flicked it to Will who played a long ball past the keeper.
Will D came on and immediately made his presence known with some great passes. Barton dug their heels in and their number 8 made a good run past the Lions' defence only to be beaten by the goal post.
The second half saw James dribble the ball up the field play a cross to Spud who tapped the ball in the net. Barton continued to show a fighting spirit and their determination paid off. A good run up the pitch and Barton's captain kicked the ball past the keeper.
Bramingham U14 - 1
EB Lions U14 - 5
Bramingham's number seven kicked an impressive shot into the top corner within the first couple of minutes but Lions soon retaliated, with Gus Thorne scoring with one of his trademark long shots. For the remainder of the first half both teams worked hard but neither came close to scoring.
Lions increased their work rate in the second half. James Thiel and Andy Broughton did well to contain Bramingham's talented and quick number seven, whilst Andy Dear and Matt Audouard worked hard in mid-field to feed the ball to the Lions' forwards. Thorne scored a second and Jack Coates ran into the box only to be pushed off the ball by a defender.
Jonnie Moriarty scored confidently from the resulting penalty and soon after took the ball round the goalie and scored with a cracking left foot shot. Finally a good pass from Sam Marshall set MoM Thorne up for his hat-trick.
Source: EB Lions
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Eaton Bray Methodist Church
Our November Lunches will be served on Saturday 10th from 12.00 noon until 1.30pm.
The proceeds from the lunch are to be given to Laura, one of our Junior Church members, who is raising funds for a World Challenge Expedition to Borneo which she is to make in July 2008. Do join us and enjoy a hot lunch and help Laura with her project.
Our Christmas Lunches will be on Saturday December 1st, a full Christmas meal with dessert and coffee/ tea will cost just £7.00. Tickets will be available from Graham Carter at our November Lunch.
So that we can serve everyone efficiently we are to have a number of sittings starting from 12.00 noon. There will also be a few festive stalls for your seasonal purchases and our chosen charity for this event will be Foundation Rwanda.
Source: Focus, Noveber 2007
Villagers Race Night
The Villagers present A Race Night at Eaton Bray Village Hall, in aid of Hall Funds, on Friday 16th November at 7.30pm.
A ploughman's supper is included. Bring your own drinks and glasses.
Tickets £7.50
Tickets available from Hall Trustees.
Source: Focus, November 2007
A touch of TLC for a good cause
If you could do with some TLC and a spot of alternative therapy, Toddington Village Hall is the place to be on Sunday, November 11.
Gentle Touch Healing is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a free Healathon featuring 'tasters' of body and soul nourishing treatments such as aroma and emotional therapy, Indian head massage, kinesiology, metaphysical counselling and reflexology, as well as Bach and herb remedies.
Founder Ray Wilson said 10 healers and five therapists would be in attendance at the event which is open from 10am to 4pm.
Although there is no entry fee and no charge for any of the tasters, donations will be welcome. These will be split between the Healing Centre Building Fund and Macmillan Cancer Support. Tea and coffee, cakes and biscuits will be available for a 50p donation.
Ray, who eased Eaton Bray cancer victim Liz Farr's final months, is working towards establishing a £10 million pyramid-shape holistic healing centre in Bedfordshire. It will be ecological, carbon-neutral and planet-friendly.
He hopes to fund the building with donations and to run it through renting rooms to medical practitioners, complementary therapists and counsellors in addition to selling ranges of healing and health-related products.
The Healing Centre operates on Tuesday evenings at Flitwick's Rufus Centre.
For more information, call 01582 663900 or you can visit www.gentletouch.co.uk.
Liz, who lived in Woodside, hit the headlines when her film-maker son Rob made a documentary of her illness, Making a Song and Dance About Cancer.
She also wrote and recorded the Thank You Song, with all proceeds going to Gentle Touch Healing. After her death, her widower Clive Bevins gave the charity a cheque for £2,000 towards the centre's building fund.
Source: Dunstable Gazette, 1 November 2007
Friends of St Mary's Eaton Bray
The monthly Coffee Mornings continue to prove popular and the October event raised a further £116 towards the cost of preserving our 13th century Church. This brings the total to date to over £350 and our thanks go to all of you for your support.
We hope you agree that the preservation of the St Mary's building is important to the village community, so please do come along to one of our Coffee Mornings (the next is on November 3rd between 10.30 and noon) or to one of our major events whilch will be advertised in future editions of Focus.
-- Your Friends Committee
Friends of St Mary's - Why Another Charity?
What does St Mary's Church, Eaton Bray mean to you? Maybe services on Sunday morning, "churchy people", singing hymns, saying prayers. Nothing to do with you perhaps?.
But wait a minute - there's a wealth of history waiting to be discovered - for example, two large oak and iron thatching hooks, to drag burning thatch from cottages in the days before the Fire Service, a font as old as the church itself, and even, strangely, non-matching pillars!
St Mary's Church, Eaton Bray was built in the early 13th century. Over the years, it's needed some help to stay standing - when it was about 250 years old, it was practically rebuilt - and that was 600 YEARS AGO! The church is built of local stone from Totternhoe. It is a chalk-like stone, which is easy to carve, but when it rains, or is very windy, the stone wears away quite easily.
So what we, the Friends of St Mary's, want to do is encourage people like you to help us make sure it stays standing for many more years - which of course is going to cost money. There are already several charities fund-raising for the church, but most of them involve people who go to church regularly. We are trying to involve people who may rarely visit church, but who like the fact that it's "just there" - which it won't be if we don't look after it.
We're not asking you to give money for nothing - we are organizing a series of events, which we hope will be fun, so you'll really want to come! The first one is going to be a Family Christmas Sing-A-Long at 6.30pm on Friday 21st December - plenty of us love singing Christmas Carols, but not everyone is sure they want to go to a church service too. So here's an alternative - singing and no service - and we'll even throw in a drink and a mince pie!
Look out for posters and ads around the village - you can get tickets from Mrs Stilliard (01525 222283), from Edlesborough Post Office, or on the door as long as there's room! Happy singing!
And for more information about the history of the church, check out the Virtual Tour on this fantastic website! www.stmaryseatonbray.org.uk/About-Our-Church
Source: Focus, November 2007