Archived News
April 2012
Man killed in glider crash
A member of the London Gliding Club in Dunstable has died after the glider he was flying crashed into a field in Eaton Bray earlier this afternoon (30 April 2012).
The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) were alerted shortly after 2.30pm to Harling Road. A fast response car, ambulance and an operations manager attended the scene, and due to the nature of the call, an air ambulance from South Central Ambulance Service was also sent to assist at the scene.
Ambulance spokesman Gary Sanderson said: "First and foremost our thoughts are firmly with the man's family at this tragic time." He added: "It was evident that nothing could be done on our arrival and the man was pronounced dead shortly after."
Bedfordshire Police said they were alerted by the ambulance service just after 2.30pm, and a road block was set up in the area. A force spokeswoman confirmed the Air Accidents Investigation Branch had launched an investigation.
Speaking this afternoon, Andrew Selous MP said: "I want to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the man who was killed when his glider crashed in Eaton Bray this afternoon, and I will be looking to see that all lessons are learnt from this sad incident so that we can avoid any sad tragedy in future"
More & More 16 Driver Courses
Young drivers from across Central Bedfordshire will have the opportunity to take courses to improve their driving knowledge and skills as part of an initiative designed to reduce road casualties.
Taking place in May, the MORE 16 and MORE Drive courses offer real-life experience to help young drivers stay safer on the road and are funded by Central Bedfordshire Council in partnership with their Highways Service provider Amey.
Three workshops, covering driving skills, maintenance and safety, will be run by vehicle inspectors and collision investigators from Bedfordshire Police, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service, Three Shires Driving School and the automotive testing and development track facilities at Millbrook in Bedfordshire.
The MORE 16 programme is aimed at 16 year-olds and their parents and gives young people their first taste of driving as well as giving guidance to parents on choosing a driving instructor and how to help their teens when practising. Parents attending even receive a high-speed passenger ride around a track with a Millbrook pro-driver with competition history in motorsport such as rallying or racing.
MORE Drive offers 17 to 24 year-olds, who have already passed their driving test, the chance to drive on a skid pan and experience ABS braking systems, as well as practising emergency stops at speed to demonstrate the distance it takes to stop at varying speeds.
Twenty-year-old Dani Page, who attended the MORE Drive course last year, said: "It was a great way to learn about real dangers on the road and how to deal with these situations when faced by them. I now have a greater knowledge of a wide range of hazards, how to control a car in a skid and in emergencies to what to do in the event of an accident.
"This knowledge was gained from hands on experience with professional drivers and demonstrations from Police collision investigators and the Fire and Rescue Service. It has changed the way I view things and given me an insight in how easily an incident can occur and what I could do to avoid any situation that I may encounter."
Dani was one of more than 170 young people from across Central Bedfordshire who took part in the MORE 16 and MORE Drive courses during the past year.
Councillor Budge Wells, Deputy Executive Member for Sustainable Communities Services, said: "In Central Bedfordshire between 2009 and 2011, 32% of drivers and 43% of passengers killed or seriously injured were aged between 17 and 24. Young drivers are therefore one of our key priorities, and it would be wonderful if as many of our young people as possible could attend."
"I am delighted that demand for the courses last year was so high. The MORE programmes are a great way for our young people to learn new skills and improve their driving ability. We will be running the courses again on the 13 May, with 72 places available."
The courses are free and are allocated on a first come, first served basis. For more information on either the MORE 16 or MORE Drive programmes, or to attend the events in May, email [email protected].
For more details see links to leaflets below
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Notice of visit by Andrew Selous MP
To All Residents of Eaton Bray Parish
NOTICE OF VISIT BY ANDREW SELOUS MP
30 MAY 2012, 11:30AM-12NOON
AT THE COFFEE TAVERN (1st Floor), EATON BRAY
Andrew Selous MP looks forward to meeting as many constituents as possible
Bedfordshire's young people to become fearless in fighting crime
Fearless.org was launched nationally in April 2010 and is a website by the independent charity Crimestoppers where young people can get information about crimes that affect them. It also gives them the opportunity to pass on information about crime 100% anonymously. In April this year a new mobile website for Fearless was launched allowing young people to give information about crime whilst on the move. It is now being officially launched in Bedfordshire.
An event is being held to launch Fearless.org at The Thomas Moore School in Bedford at the start of May. The event will include an interactive theatre performance called Skin Deep and workshops by The Solomon Theatre. There will also be a session by Fearless youth workers.
Ann Scott, Eastern Regional Manager for Crimestoppers, explained why Fearless.org is so important: "Young people are one of the most important audiences for Crimestoppers to communicate with, but they haven't always understood or been willing to interact with the charity. One of the key reasons for re-launching Crimestoppers for young people is to empower them to be 'fearless' in passing on information about crime anonymously if they feel unable to talk to Police".
She continued: "We want to reassure young people that information they give to Fearless.org about crime is taken seriously and that they have nothing to fear by contacting the charity. When someone contacts us we do not ask for their name or take any personal details. We do not trace calls/IP addresses and we do not record our calls. Those who give information do not have to give a statement to Police or go to court. In the 24 years that Crimestoppers has been running we have never revealed anyone's identity".
Crimestoppers plays a major part in the fight against crime. It has received over 1.3 million calls to date and every day 23 people are arrested as a result of information given to Crimestoppers.
Richard Denton, Children and Young People Development Officer and Schools Co-ordinator for Bedfordshire Police, comments, "While Bedfordshire Police works very closely with local young people in schools and other youth settings we understand that some often don't feel comfortable telling the Police, their parents or school about crime they might be seeing. Gaining information from them from Fearless.org will enable us and our partners to better understand and therefore better respond to the issues that young people face".
The website is at: www.fearless.org and the brand new Fearless film can be seen here:
There is also a brand new app at www.rufearless.org where young people can experience 'losing their virtual life' if they log onto Facebook.
Digital TV Switchover Helpscheme - help is at hand for the over 75's and for those with disability
By 18th April 2012 you will need to have converted your TV to digital, or, if it already is digital, you will need to retune it* - in order to continue receiving a television service.
(* Note - Cable and Sky customers are not affected by the switchover)
The BBC-run Switchover Help Scheme can convert one TV to digital for eligible viewers.
You are eligible for the Help Scheme if you are:
- aged 75 or over, or
- live in a care home (for six months or more), or
- receive (or could get) Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or
- Attendance or Constant Attendance Allowance, or Mobility Supplement, or
- registered blind or partially sighted
If you are eligible then the Help Scheme will write to you directly. All you need to do is respond to the letter by sending back a completed reply form or telephone for free on 0800 40 85 900. If you receive a letter, please respond even if you don't need any help.
The scheme can provide and install easy to use equipment to switch one TV. It includes an approved installer, aerial upgrade if needed and a 12 month aftercare service, with free helpline. Most people will be asked to pay £40 towards the service but it can be free for those who receive certain income -related benefits.
Do you know someone who needs a helping hand switching to digital TV? Please talk to them and make sure they get the help they are entitled to by telling them about the Switchover Help Scheme.
For further information on the Switchover Help Scheme visit:
helpscheme.co.uk or call 0800 40 85 900.
Textphone users can call 0800 40 85 936.
Cricket: Big win for first game of 2012
The 2012 season started in emphatic style for the Bray with a resounding win over local rivals Edlesborough CC.
With skip Norris winning the toss and batting first Bray racked up a huge 275-5 off their 40 overs with Norris 63 ret'd, Peacock 60 ret'd, Flecknell 51 ret'd and Hearn 34 being the main contributors. Special mention to Charlie Alden, who with possibly the biggest maximum of the day left a local resident's parked car needing a trip to the bodyworks, as a huge six piled onto his car roof.
After watching the Grand National on Jimbo's phone and momentarily forgetting about fielding, the Bray started off strongly with opening bowler's Smith and Jacobs taking the wickets of D'Archembaud and Mistry. Regular wickets fell throughout and other than useful knocks from the Boro' skipper (33) and Wood (26) then the final total of 107 all out would have been much lower. Smith returned figures of 3-13, Jacobs 2-14 and leggy Holbrook 3-21 in what was a satisfying win to start the season.
A bigger test follows next week as Bray step up their preparartions for the league season when Reed CC visit the Rye Gardens ground.
Scorecard
- Result: Eaton Bray CC - Friendly XI Won by 168 runs
- Date: Sat 14th Apr 2012
- Start Time: 13:30
- Ground: The Edlesborough Oval
- Type: Friendly
- Scoring: Standard
- Toss: Friendly XI won the toss and decided to bat
- Highlights: A Norris 63 ret'd, J Peacock 60 ret'd, J Flecknell 51 ret'd M Smith 3-13, A Holbrook 3-21
Source: Eaton Bray Cricket Club
Cricket: Sunday Season Starts with a loss
The Eaton Bray Sunday XI got the 2012 season off to a bad start, losing by 9 wickets to Wayfarers CC. After winning their last 3 matches of the 2011 season, the lads wanted to build again this season and play some good cricket. New player Parrott was welcomed into the side and Bray won the toss, deciding to bat first. The match had been reduced to 35 overs a side, as the Wayfarers teams seemed to come to the Bedfordshire via Cambridge, ultimately turning up rather late.
Two early wickets were lost to opening bowler Zabi, who yorked Ringsell and took the wiccket of Peacock off the inside edge. Parrott and the trumpeting McDermid steadied the ship with a good partnership of 37 until Parrott was out for 20. Bray were struggling in the middle overs and when McDermid was out for an anchoring 16, only contributions of Harvey (12) and Hemming (11) saved further blushes. Bray finished on a paltry 97 all out.
Tea was amazing (we've all missed it).
A team talk was held on the resumption of play, centering on some early wickets being taken and every team member contributing in the field, a big part of the success enjoyed last year.
Unfortunately aside from some good sledging of the oppo batsman and brilliant opening spells from Ryan Peacock and Roff, the luck was clearly with the Wayfarers side who cruised to victory within 22.3 overs; (some rather suspect scoring included) and number 3 batsman wasting all of at least 20 lives, passed to him by the cricket gods for the season, with some fluent outside edges and textbooks wafts outside off stump on the way to 26 not out.
Onto next week then, and a game against local rivals Edlesborough CC as the team look to bounce back to winning ways.
Scorecard
- Result: Wayfarers CC, Oxon - Friendly XI Won by 9 wickets
- Date: Sun 15th Apr 2012
- Start Time: 13:00
- Ground: The Rye Gardens
- Type: Friendly
- Scoring: Standard
- Toss: Friendly XI won the toss and decided to bat
Source: Eaton Bray Cricket Club
New Equipment For Armed Response Vehicles
A simple but effective idea should save time and money when it's rolled out across the collaborated Armed Policing Unit in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire.
As well as two or three firearms officers, each Armed Response Vehicle (ARV) currently has to carry a mobile armoury in the cabin which houses the firearms when not in use; and a vast array of equipment in the boot of the car.
Using his experience as a firearms officer and position as the unit's Head of Collaborative Fleet,
Sgt Matt Stein of the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Firearms Support Unit has worked with Thames Valley Police, Volvo and an engineering company, Safeguard, to design and produce a new purpose built load carrier for the ARV's.
The load carrier system will have modular storage for all the equipment firearms officers carry and an integral safe for the weapons - all stowed in the boot.
As well as Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, Thames Valley Police and Cambridgeshire Constabulary will also use the new carriers.
Not only is the new design easier to use, it is Volvo approved and fully compliant with health and safety by having the mobile armoury more securely stored in the boot. The modular design can be dismantled and re-built into any vehicles likely to be used by the Armed Policing Unit – saving each of the four participating forces £30,000 over the next ten years.
The load carrier system will start appearing very soon as it gets built into the high performance diesel Volvo V70 D5's, which will be gradually coming on line to serve as ARV's across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Thames Valley. These forces are part of the Chiltern Transport Consortium who also assisted in the design process.
Although Cambridgeshire are currently using Volvos, the other forces have a variety of petrol vehicles in use as ARVs and the change to diesel is coming to Beds, Herts and TVP to cut both fuel costs and carbon footprint.
Source: Ringmaster Bedfordshire
Parish Council Minutes - April 2012
Minutes of Parish Council Meeting: Monday 2nd April 2012
The Annual Parish Meeting and the Annual Meeting of Eaton Bray Parish Council will be held on Monday 2nd April 2012, from 7.00pm, in the Coffee Tavern.
Paradox - live at Eaton Bray Village Hall
Local group Paradox will be playing live at Eaton Bray Village Hall on 19th May 2012 from 7pm til midnight. You can expect a lively selection of music covering many genres including rock, soul and country from the 1960's up to the current day.
This group has a large fan base established. Don't miss the opportunity to see them live and support your local Lions club at the same time.
Entry tickets £10.00 bought in advance, £15.00 on the door.
Please contact Rachel on 01525 229656 or email [email protected] for more information.
Gordon's Charity Christmas Puzzle 2011
I am very grateful for the support of many local people and for their generosity - as a result of this year's Puzzle £5,300 will be donated, to be shared equally between five nominated charities: Harpenden Child Contact Centre, Leveque School, Haiti, St Mary's, Eaton Bray, Willen Hospice and Yorkshire Air Ambulance. The total raised by the Puzzle is now £46,500 – my thanks to everyone who has helped to make this possible.
Of 324 entries this year, from as far away as New Zealand, Australia and Canada, 29 achieved full marks including a number of local people: Angie Baker, Liz Constable, Iain Stubbs, Margaret Webber & Alison Timman.
A draw, to select four winners, was held at All Saints Church, Dagnall, on 29 January.
The winners, none of whom are local, were: Mr & Mrs M J Fisher, Sally Kettle, Malcolm Moore and Brian Stone. In addition, one entry was drawn at random from among all the entries received, the winner being Peter Cook, who scored 118.5. These five winners each receive a cheque for £30.
You can register to receive a copy of next year's Puzzle at www.christmaspuzzle.co.uk.
Next year's Puzzle will be issued on 8 December.
Gordon Gray
News from the Lions Den
Youth – Challenging tomorrow today....
Lions are committed to supporting and encouraging young people to learn, to achieve and to grow. Youth projects are organised by clubs both locally and internationally.
At the international level, the influence of Lions can touch thousands of people, at a local level the needs are often immediate and personal but equally important.
One of these projects is known as the Young Ambassador award. It aims to acknowledge today's young 'ambassadors' working as volunteers and gives them the recognition they deserve. The award helps to boost their self esteem and con fi dence whilst highlighting the charities and volunteer groups with which they are involved.
Candidates need to be aged between 15 and 18 years in age.
I am delighted to be able to say that this year, we have a winning candidate.
15 year old Fiona has cerebral palsy. A disorder that can involve brain and nervous system functions such as movement, learning, hearing, seeing, and thinking. Three years ago she felt she had little to offer any one and certainly not in a sporting context. However she has since learnt that, in the right environment she excels at a number of sports.
Fiona now competes in National Boccia competitions and DSE National Athletics Championships. She has trained as a sports leader and now coaches young disabled athletes aged between 5 and 7 years old – some of whom are being watched closely by the GB Paralympics coaches.
Fiona competed against 13 other 'young ambassadors' from all over the UK. She was the youngest entrant but this certainly didn't hold her back.
When Fiona speaks, people are spellbound, both at her content and soft, gentle yet enthusiastic manner. Indeed, Fiona made such a lasting impression that she was rewarded with the 'Ship Shape' award.
THE SHIPSHAPE AWARD, sponsored by the Jubilee Sailing Trust is awarded to a candidate who demonstrates a particularly strong personal commitment and enthusiasm for their community work but who, in the opinion of the judges, would benefit from the opportunity to develop their con fi dence and their leadership skills.
JST is a registered charity that owns and operates Lord Nelson and Tenacious. Founded in 1978 off the back of a grant from the Queen's Silver Jubilee Fund, the JST owns and operates the only two tall ships in the world that have special features that enable able-bodied and disabled people to sail the ship together as equals. Tall ship sailing with the JST provides everyone the thrill and adventure of life at sea.
The award this year offers a greater opportunity than ever before.
Just 4 days before the Young Ambassador fi nals took place at Dudley this year, the Trustees and Vice President of JST made the announcement that the tall ship Lord Nelson will leave the UK in October 2012 to sail around the world.
Founder Christopher Rudd said in his announcement speech "We all know who the heroes of the JST have been over the years: those with disabilities who have put the Trust's ideals to the test...afloat, at sea, on board Lord Nelson and Tenacious. It is to these courageous characters that we give thanks tonight. Let's drink a toast to all our shipmates, especially those who have defied disabilities to challenge the elements aboard our very special and magnificent tall ships".
Lord Nelson was designed and built to be sailed by able-bodied and physically disabled people including wheelchair users, as part of a full working crew. This will be the first time that an accessible square-rigged sailing ship with a mixed physical ability working crew has undertaken a circumnavigation.
The 21 month world voyage, which JST are calling 'Sail the World', will incorporate four Equator crossings, 7 continents, 30 countries and 45,000 sea miles and is the most ambitious project the charity has yet undertaken.
The purpose of Sail the World is to give people of all physical abilities the chance to undertake adventurous ocean passages under sail. It is planned that wheelchair users will be part of the working crew for each of the 10 passages, the longest of which is 58 days and 5,800 sea miles from New Zealand to Ushuaia including rounding Cape Horn. Square-rigged sailing ships have been rounding that historic rock for centuries but this will be the fi rst accessible tall ship with a mixed ability crew to do so.
Sail the World also aims to introduce other nations to the experience of accessible sailing on a tall ship, which for many people can be a life-changing discovery of abilities they didn't know they had. Ports of call around the world have expressed a strong interest in chartering the ship for a few days, between the long passages, in order to enable their own nationals with disabilities to sail who otherwise would not get the chance. The JST hopes that people from these countries will also want to join the ship on the longer adventurous passages across the oceans of the world.
The JST ships are recognised world-wide as being unique and already there is great excitement around the globe about giving Lord Nelson a warm welcome wherever she goes.
Disabled sailor and JST Trustee Niall Tarrell said "I have been a wheelchair user since the age of twenty-one and sailing on Lord Nelson opened up a sense of achievement and opportunity that I had rarely felt before. Taking this message to the rest of the world and giving disabled South Africans, Australians, Asians and South Americans a chance to share this experience we believe will inspire people around the world".
The ship will leave in October 2012 from Southampton. Sail the World's first destination will be Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Other ports of call include Cape Town, Singapore, Sydney and Auckland. The grand home coming will be in July 2014 after visiting Iceland.
After Fiona had been awarded this coveted prize, I was approached by the CEO of JST who said he was so impressed with Fiona that would love to give her the opportunity of taking part in one of the Sail the World legs.
Fiona now needs to decide which leg of the tour she wants to take part in so that the amount of funds required to cover her travel can be calculated.
Fiona has already been awarded a £500.00 donation from JST towards the cost of her experience but the remainder of the funds need to raised to offer her this life changing opportunity. Lions around the area are already committed to finding ways of supporting this wonderful, worthy young lady but I am hoping that she has touched the hearts of some of you reading this article too.
A Just Giving link has been created on our website www.ebelions.org.uk. Any money you pledge here will help support Fiona – if you can spare a pound then please do consider her as a worthy beneficiary.
I make no apology for feeling so passionate about this competition having metyoungsters like Fiona and so many like her, I know there are far more good young people than the small minority of bad we read about in the press.
Our next informal information evening is taking place on Wednesday 4th April at Eaton Bray village hall from 7.30pm. Full details can be found in the advert in this magazine or by calling Rachel on 01525 229 656. We would love to see some of you there.
On Friday 18th May we are supporting the National Spinal Injury association (SIA) with a fi sh and chip super being held in Edlesborough village hall. One of our members will be delivering a talk on spinal injuries and the work the association do. Come along to support this worthy, national cause and fi nd out more. Tickets are £12.50 which includes your fi sh and chips and a £5.00 donation per ticket to the charity. Tea and coffee will be available to purchase but please bring along your own soft and alcoholic beverages. Tickets for this event need to be purchased in advance so that we can order the fish and chips. Please book by no later than Tuesday 15th May. Call Rachel for more details on 01525 229 656.
On Saturday 19th May, PARADOX are coming to Eaton Bray. The cracking covers band will be recreating classic cuts like Clapton and The Culture Club through to contemporary contenders such as Coldplay, the Chilli Peppers and The Kaiser Chief's!!!
Paradox is a 6-piece covers band are based in Leighton Buzzard. Formed ten years ago, their mission is to get people rocking. To support this, we have a full bar license for the event to make your evening really go with a swing.
Tickets are on sale NOW and are priced at just £10.00 per person in advance or £15.00 on the night. Doors open at 7pm. To make sure you don't miss your opportunity of a night to remember, get your tickets early by calling Rachel on 01525 229 656 or email [email protected].
For a sneak preview of their latest line up or for more details in general, please go to our website www.ebelions.org.uk
Finally on Saturday 9th June we are running a day trip to Foulness island, off the coast of Essex. A luxury coach will be running from Eaton Bray. Full details will be provided next month.
Better still… come along to meet us at our open evening and collect your event tickets while you are there...
Ordinary people doing amazing things
Source: Focus, April 2012
Local Resilience Forum helps residents save water
As the hose pipe bans comes into force today, the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum (BLLRF) has issued advice to help local residents save water.
The average person in England and Wales uses 150 litres of water a day, most of which is used for washing and toilet flushing. To help households save water, BLLRF have launched a new webpage packed full of useful tips such as reducing the amount of water used per flush and fixing leaking taps which can save a whopping 15 litres of water per day.
It is hoped the webpage will encourage residents to help conserve water after the driest winter on record. Despite recent rainfall, reservoir levels in parts of the country are still significantly below the average levels for this time of year.
The resilience forum are confident householders will be motivated to undertake the advice following the recent declaration of drought last month, and the opportunity to potentially save money on water bills.
BLLRF chairman, Deputy Chief Constable John Fletcher said: "The drought situation and the hosepipe ban will no doubt have an impact on almost every household in the county.
"We hope our advice will help residents conserve water and think about their water usage more carefully. By taking simple measures we can help to ensure we don't take this precious resource for granted."
For more information about way to save water please visit whatwouldyoudoif.co.uk/savingwater.php
Source: Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum (BLLRF)
Carnival 2012 - "Kings and Queens"
Still the time cometh for Carnival.
The theme for Carnival 2012 is "Kings and Queens". We are not just talking Elizabeth, Edward, Victoria, George, Henry and Ethelred; there is Cleopatra, Martin Luther … not to mention Freddie Mercury! Use your imagination for the theme; decorate your house on the Carnival route and join the procession in costume to make this a Carnival to remember in Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee year.
The 2012 Carnival will also include some superb Olympic-themed events for children from 2 to 92 in the main arena on The Green.
Organisation for the Carnival is underway so is there any way you can help to make this a year to remember?
- VERY IMPORTANT: Carnival Queen Dresses. Selection of the Carnival Queen and Princesses will take place in April. Dresses for the Queen and Princesses are very difficult to find this year. Can anyone help with any bridesmaid or similar "fancy" dresses that would be suitable for our stunning young ladies? All help or ideas would be greatly appreciated!
- Young ladies that wish to be a Carnival Queen or Princess make sure you see the advert in focus and around the villages.
- Local Groups: Do you run any group in the Villages that would like to operate a fl oat this year? Perhaps you do not live in the village but operate your events here and would like to take part? All floats are welcome!
- Transport: Can you help with transport in any form; flatbed lorry, open truck or van or anything that could provide transport for the procession?
- Advertising: Any business that would like to advertise in the Carnival program should have their requests in by mid-April. This is an event that draws thousands of people for the local area so don't miss out. Please contact Pauline Glen.
- Can you provide any help to the carnival?
- Prizes, of any sort, for the various raffle and tombola stalls.
- Items for the silent auction.
- Can YOU provide help on the day of the carnival at any of the many charity stalls, even for a few hours?
My Lords and Ladies the time is coming; prepare yourselves for a "right Regal Carnival" in 2012.
Local Resilience Forum warns of the dangers of storing petrol
The Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum is urging residents not to panic buy petrol, as domestic storage of fuel may be illegal and very dangerous. Instead the local resilience forum is urging locals to take a sensible approach to buying petrol and consider ways to conserve the amount of fuel they use.
BLLRF chairman, Deputy Chief Constable John Fletcher stated: "Petrol is a highly flammable substance that gives off flammable vapour even at very low temperatures. It can easily be ignited by sources such as a naked flame, spark or electrical equipment".
"Petrol is also a very toxic substance and can cause serious illness if ingested or inhaled; it may also cause damage to the skin, with regular contact. We strongly advise against stocking up on petrol and storing it in jerry cans, for the purpose of refuelling motor vehicles at home. To do so may be against the law, depending on the quantity stored.
The warning is further reinforced by an incident last week, which occurred when a woman from York was badly burned when petrol ignited as she transferred it between containers in her kitchen.
Deputy Chief Constable John Fletcher continued "Ultimately, panic buying will only lead to more panic buying which could lead to depleted stocks and fuel shortages, particularly in the more rural areas of the county. There is no strike planned over the Easter period and we urge residents to take a sensible approach by purchasing fuel as they would normally. Now might also be a good time for residents to consider ways to drive more fuel – efficiently. "
To help residents save fuel, BLLRF are directing residents to the government advice on direct.gov.uk. Tips include ensuring types are pumped up, clearing out excess clutter and changing gears at the right time.
Anyone with information on the illegal storage of petroleum, or who wishes to receive further advice or guidance, is asked to contact the Petroleum Officer at your local council or call Bedfordshire Police on 101 or Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service on 01234 845000 and ask for the Fire Safety Department for advice
Further information on the safe storage of fuel can be found on HSE's Petroleum FAQs
Source: Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum (BLLRF)
25 Years of Eaton Bray Lawn Tennis Club
2012 will be an exciting time to be a part of Eaton Bray Lawn Tennis Club. It was in January 1987 that the club was formed by a small group of people, some of whom are still involved in the running of the club today. This year we will be aiming to celebrate our 25th anniversary in style with a special event at the end of the summer. This event will also serve as a fundraising event for the club and our nominated charity for 2012.
Brain Tumour UK
One of our junior members, Alison Lowe and her mother Wendy has requested that we support a charity that is very dear to them. Alison's uncle sadly passed away in February 2011 having suffered from a brain tumour. It was Malcolm's encouragement that brought Alison to our club and now she is one of the most talented young players representing the club at junior and senior level as well as being part of the County squad. Therefore, we will be planning a charity tennis event to raise funds for Brain Tumour UK. This will run in conjunction with our Play Day on Saturday 26th May. Do come and support us and be part of the fun on the courts.
Summer Tennis
March will see the end of the Mike Venn Trophy which has run throughout the winter. This social tennis event will give way to a series of round robins which will be played one Sunday morning once a month during the summer months. Social tennis sessions take place every week on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings. Our club tournaments will commence in May and we have entered teams into the South Bedfordshire League Our junior section has grown in the last two years and we shall be arranging three junior tournaments during the spring and summer. Easter and Summer Tennis camps proved popular last year and the Easter camp is arranged for 2nd-5th and 10th-13th April. We are also looking into some trips to tournaments for the older juniors so that they can see the professionals play.
Coaching
Our qualified coach, Sara Leavy continues to provide lessons and coaching for the club. Juniors are welcomed to group sessions on Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings and seniors on Saturday afternoons and Wednesday nights. Sara is also promoting private lessons for juniors and seniors. Please refer to the club noticeboards for further details.
Social Events
The very popular twice yearly quiz will take place on the 21st April and 17th November. Tickets can be purchased for £9 from Ross Bagni.
The Chairman's barbecue will take place on 15th July. Tickets for this event will go on sale in the Spring. Also in the Spring we shall start to promote the 25th Anniversary and Charity Ball. This event will take place on 29th September in the Village Hall.
Discounted Membership for new members
Being a sociable and friendly club we are always delighted to welcome new members.
Source: Focus, April 2012
Edlesbray Leisure Fellowship - ELF
Greetings to everyone from the ELF Group.
Is spring really coming? Snowdrops and primroses are showing their beauty and daffodils are well and truly blooming. Shrubs are bursting with new growth, and surely, other spring bulbs are awakening. Hopefully the worst of the winter weather, with its snow and heavy frosts is in the past.
There will be a group of National Trust members and Non-members visiting Ascot House on March 29th to view the wonderful show of daffodils, between 2.00 and 4.00 p.m. We hope for good weather.
Our meeting on February 19th was well attended and lively. Refreshments were enjoyed whilst chatting. The arrangements for future outings were discussed and are "well in hand". They include:- Stondon Motor Museum; Organ Museum; Bletchley Park; Shuttleworth Collection and Worlds End. Hopefully, all these outings will include a lunch. All details for events as and when they occur will be posted in the North Porch of Eaton Bray Church.
The walk on February 27th was thoroughly enjoyed by the group led by Alan. We walked from Horton Wharf along the Grand Union Canal to Ivinghoe Locks and back across country to Horton Wharf. Lunch was taken in The Carpenters Arms at Slapton.
Elf members are looking forward to lunch out at The Plough, Wingfield on March 8th.
A report will appear in the May Edition of The Focus.
The walk on April 23rd has been postponed until April 30th.
Have a good Easter.
April Dates
Thurs. 19th April - Meeting Coffee Tavern, 10.30
Thurs. 26th April - Visit to College Lakes, 10.30
Mon. 30th April - Walk Eaton Bray Church, 10.30
Salvation Sound - April 2012
Charitable Giving
In the SALVATION ARMY we have two major 'money' collections each year. One in September when we ask you, the public, to donate all that you can spare to help people in the U.K. who are in desperate need. And yes! there are people, some locally, who are in fi nancial diffi culties, and who are not able to cover the ordinary expenses of day to day living. They are living below the bread line; Hungry; and cannot afford to pay for heating for their homes. They cannot afford new clothing. They are, in other words, needy people!
The second collection is from Salvationists, Adherants and friends, during March, to support the work that takes place overseas. We call it Self Denial.
In many parts of the world Salvationist missionaries cope with situations that could be thought of as impossible. But with God, nothing is impossible. So year in and year out, in faith, they minister. In my minds eye, I can see the hundreds of children being fed. Arriving with a bowl and spoon and standing in line waiting in expectation. Their thin gaunt faces make their large eyes stand out like illuminated marbles. Apathy of movement, quietness, and swollen protuding bellies make you aware of starvation. Will there be food enough for them?
What did you give up for Lent? And what did you do with the money that you saved?
Jesus celebrated the Passover with a meal, sharing food with the twelve disciples.
A gentleman questioned me regarding our policy of not administering the Sacrement. To us all life is sacramental, everything we do we offer to God.
The practical spirit of the Founder of the Army, William Booth, has been passed down through generations. In the very early days a young lad was asked by his teacher whether the Salvation Army did or did not administer the Lords Supper. The boy looked at him, thought for a moment, then said "please Sir, they give us poor children breakfast''!!!
Still in this day and age there are people starving in all areas of our world. To feed the body is good, but to make people aware that the gift is given in the Name of the Lord is satisfying to both body and soul. We are asked to help in so many areas that we become bemused. However when we respond, either with our money or our lives, we will be astonished at what the gifts given can accomplish. We live in throw away society. During the last, "39-45" war, there was a slogan: "waste not, want not". Why not apply that policy today. 1.Cor.13 v 3 "If I gave everything I have to poor people but did not love others, it would be of no value..."
At the end of Lent we arrive at Good Friday; the day that Jesus died. So what's good about it? On that day Jesus gave His all, His Life, to save us. He took punishment for our sins. He died but He rose again on Easter Sunday, and He lives today. We are so fortunate, that we have enough; enough to give back a little of what we own. Remember the words from fi ction that Dickens wrote, those celebrated last words: "It is a far, far, better thing that I do, than I have ever done."
The Gospels are crammed with every kind of giving from the widow's mite to Christ's all, and all this giving would not be there if a tremendous purpose did not lie behind it. Acts 20:35, "He himself said: "It is more blessed to give than to recieve."
Charity Just what do you give?
Eaton Bray W.I.
A welcome was extended to the members at the March meeting.
There was a birthday card for Celia White and congratulations were given to Barbara Ilic and her husband Tony on the occasion of their Diamond Wedding.The card from the Queen was looked at by everyone (especially the code on the back). Loving thoughts were expressed to Dorothy and her daughter June, whose husband Bill had died suddenly. A newsletter was distributed giving all the forthcoming details of events and outings planned for the Summer.
Deirdrea introduced the speaker Jean Yates who spoke on Bedfordshire's Secret War.
Organisations such as the Special Operation Executive and others, conducted their secret operations from various parts of Bedfordshire.
The Met Office Central Forecasting unit was in a nissen hut camou fl aged as a haystack on top of the Downs, in Isle of Wight Lane. Another hut was involved in experimental radar, this too was camoufl aged by hay. Twenty miles of chicken wire was erected on the Downs at 400ft above sea level. Hockliffe had a secret radio station run by the Czechoslovakians who were communicating with their president and government.
Chicksands was an RAF 'Y' station, at one time it had 200 receivers intercepting the German Air Force strategic wireless network. Paris House at Woburn was used as an interim safe house for the Royal Family if Britain was invaded.
Jean showed slides with so much information written down. Most details could be found in her book entitled Dunstable at War, written by herself and Sue King. (Copies available from Focus editor.)
Jean was thanked by Sue for a most informative talk. Social time followed and the raffle was won by Barbara Collier and Megan Hall.
Next month's speakers on Monday 2nd April are Mandy and Justin James of Redbournbury Mill and Bakery. They will be bringing samples to taste.
Why not join us?
Source: Focus, April 2012