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 ARLESEY TOWN COUNCIL NEWSLETTER

SUMMER 2009

Central Bedfordshire Councillors 

Cllr I Dalgarno                                                                01462 735510

Cllr J Saunders                                                              07850 542984

Cllr J Street                                                                   01462 730174

Cllr Mrs C Turner                                                            01462 835962                                              

Town Councillors 

Cllr H Harper – Chairman                                                01462 731891

Cllr I Dalgarno – Vice Chairman                                       01462 735510

Cllr Mrs D Archer                                                           01462 731392

Cllr D Beatham                                                              01462 730295

Cllr Mrs L Bowskill                                                         01462 731348

Cllr J Caffrey                                                                  01462 733997

Cllr N Daniels                                                                07791 171755

Cllr Mrs H Frost                                                             07904 667179

Cllr R Harris                                                                   07951 104995

Cllr C Howitt                                                                  01462 731437

Cllr Ms C Marshall                                                         07931 862619   

Cllr D Page                                                                    07790 927201

Cllr M Rainbow                                                              07771 827337   

Cllr D West                                                                   01462 834821

Cllr V Williams                                                               01462 731767

 Arlesey Town Councillors give their time on a voluntary basis, and are

available to the residents of Arlesey to help sort out problems and grievances.

Town Councillors Hugh Harper and Ian Dalgarno will be holding a surgery every 3rd Tuesday of the month from 5.00pm to 6.30pm in the Village Hall.

TOWN COUNCIL OFFICE 

Town Clerk: Mrs Elsie Hare                       

Assistant Clerk: Mrs Lesley Rowe

Admin Assistant: Miss Heidi Clark         

Town Council Office: Arlesey Community Centre, High Street, Arlesey, Beds SG15 6SN 

Telephone: 01462 733722                              Fax: 01462 730860

E-mail: atc@4thenet.co.uk or                         www: arleseytc.co.uk

            atc1@4thenet.co.uk

Arlesey Town Council Office is situated in the High Street in the centre of Arlesey, in the same complex as the Health Centre, Nursery and Lower School, Resource Centre and Library, Youth Centre and Village Hall.

The office is open to the public Monday -Thursday between the hours of 9am-3pm and Friday 9am-12noon. Outside these hours you can contact us by fax or email (as listed above) or leave a message on the answerphone. 

The office is the focal point for the business of the Town Council and here you can view copies of the minutes of all Town Council meetings. By visiting the office you can also: 

·         View planning applications

·         Report defective street lights

·         Report potholes and other highway issues

·         Rent allotments

·         Get latest bus time tables

·         Book the village hall

·         Get advice on cemetery matters

·         Pick up doggy bags

We are always pleased to help with enquiries; if we cannot give an immediate answer we will look into it and report back. 

The Arlesey Town Council Web site is www.arleseytc.co.uk – please have a look. 

FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE TOWN COUNCIL  

Welcome to the summer edition of the Arlesey Town Council newsletter. 

The Local Development framework is now going through the process of identifying the sites for housing development. I will keep you informed when a decision is given on the sites for Arlesey. 

To keep you up to date on the progress of the Alcohol Free Zone, it does seem that I keep informing you that it is now nearing implementation only to find that the process is very slow. The Town Council have been working hard in identifying the areas that are in need of policing. It is now with the Legal Services at Central Bedfordshire who are in the process of going to public consultation for their views, this I am informed will take about a couple of months to complete, following that we do hope it will soon be up and running. 

We are now looking for more land to be used for allotments, we have identified a piece that is available and will be investigating its potential. We now do have a waiting list for plots and hope we will be able to meet the demand.   

The Arlesey Safety Group has now been re-formed and meets regularly in the Village Hall. If anyone is interested in joining will they please get in touch with me. We are currently looking at areas of particular concern, vandalism and speeding traffic. 

It is hoped that further play equipment will soon be installed in the play area on the field behind the school. We do have the funding available to do this. 

The MUGA has now had a planning application to upgrade the play area and additions and renovations to the pavilion approved. When the funding is available work will begin. It is our intention to make this more accessible for all kinds of sport. 

I am more than pleased to tell you the Resource Centre is now going from strength to strength with many activities now being held there, my thanks to Heather and her team for their hard work. 

I have to again thank Elsie, Lesley and Heidi for all their support they continue to give me, also, their dedication in the daily running of the office. 

This year we have our FUN DAY again on Saturday 18 July on the recreation field. We have many attractions coming also the helicopter returning again. I do hope you can join us and we get a nice sunny dry day. 

Finally, as always if you have any problems or concerns please contact me. 

Hugh Harper, Mayor and Chairman of Arlesey Town Council 

THE TOWN COUNCILLORS   

Arlesey Town Council consists of 15 Town Councillors, who, on a voluntary basis, aim to provide an effective and efficient service to the community.  In exercising their power as a corporate body, the Town Council operate under a strict Code of Conduct and on election must agree to work within this code. The leader of the Town Council is the Mayor, who chairs all Town Council meetings.   

The majority of Town Council business is undertaken through its various committees. The work of the committees involves making decisions and recommendations on behalf of the residents of Arlesey, many of which have financial implications.  The committees consider how and why money is spent ensuring that expenditure is both appropriate and cost effective. 

The Town Council committees meet regularly and make recommendations to the full Town Council meeting, which meets on the first Tuesday of the month (except for August) at 7.00pm in Arlesey Village Hall. 

Residents can attend all meetings and are invited to speak at the Public Participation Sessions which are held at the beginning of the meetings. Further information from the Town Clerk.              

ACTIVITIES HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL INCLUDE: 

Tuesday                        -               8-8.45am              Tae Kwon Do

                                    -               9-11.30am             Parents and Toddlers, Toy Library

                -              7.00pm                 Town Council 1st and 3rd Tuesday

Wednesday                   -               5.30-8.15pm         Dance Beat

Thursday                       -               9-11.30am            Parents and Toddlers, Toy Library

                                                    6.15-8.15pm         Weight Watchers

Friday                            -             2-4pm                    Short Mat Bowls                                   

To book the Village Hall for your parties and special occasions please contact the Town Council Office.                                              

ARLESEY COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTRE & LIBRARY

Manager: Mrs Heather McLaughlin.

It is now over 2 years since the Town Council took on the Arlesey Resource Centre and Library and we are pleased to report that there has been a continual increase in the use of this facility, not only as a Library and Resource Centre but as a popular meeting point for the community where many activities are now held.   

The Resource Centre is managed by Mrs Heather McLaughlin and comes under the running of the Resource Centre Strategy Group reporting to the General Purpose/Finance Committee.    

The Library stock is constantly being updated with new books for both adults and children offering a wide selection of fiction and non-fiction, many of these being recent book releases.  

The Centre is open to the public as a library and business facility for word processing, photocopying, faxing, laminating and colour printing/copying. It has 6 computer stations available during opening hours for word processing, homework and internet use. 

Members of the library can request and renew books on line. Arlesey Resource Centre appears on the Bedfordshire Virtual Library website and a library link has also been added to the Town Council’s website.  

The Courses and Activities at the Centre.

Kundalini Yoga  

Classes are held on Tuesday mornings at 9.20am to 10.50am and Wednesday evenings at 7.20pm to 8.50 pm – for further details call Jane Oppegaard on 01462 731543 or the Resource Centre on 01462 731469    

NCT ( National Childbirth Trust) Antenatal Courses –  for further information please contact Lisa Oestreicher on tel: 01462 735985 or email: lisaandmartin@talktalk.net 

NCT Bumps and Babes Classes – Monday’s 1.15 -2.45 pm for Mums-to-be/carers of young babies, this is an excellent opportunity to meet expectant mums and new parents for support and socialising. £1.00 donation to cover refreshments. Contact Jessica tel: 01462 733369 

Rhyme Time -  Singalong and Stories with musical instruments 

These sessions are provided by our local Sure Start Children’s Centre

Tuesday - under 5’s 2.15 -3.00pm Wednesdays - 2 - 5 years    9.30 -10.15am

                                                                       - under 2’s    10.30 -11.15am 

For further details and booking, which is recommended as places are limited contact the Resource Centre on 01462 731469  

NEW - Baby Massage Classes Friday’s 1.30pm - 3.30pm starting June 12th – July 17th

These sessions are provided by our local Sure Start Children’s Centre

To book a place, phone the Resource Centre on 01462 731469 

Story Time and Crafts  

Every Friday morning Term Time between 10.15am – 11.15am for under 5’s and their carers. A small charge is made to cover refreshments and craft materials. Booking is not necessary. 

So come along and join the Library or just drop in there is always something going on. 

Opening times: 

Monday                    Closed                                                                                       

Tuesday            1.00pm – 5.30pm

Wednesday       8.30am – 12.00pm

Thursday           1.00pm – 5.30pm

Friday               9.00am – 12.00pm

Saturday           10.00am – 1.00pm 

The Resource Centre is available for public hire outside its opening times. Contact: The Manager on Tel/Fax: 01462 731469

Email: enquiries@arleseyresourcecentre.org.uk

Website: www.arleseyresourcecentre.org.uk 

ARLESEY MEDICAL CENTRE 

The number of patients registered at the surgery continues to grow and is now  approaching 2250. As before there is significant pressure on appointment availability as some of you may have realised. We always aim to ensure patients can be seen within 48 hours and reserve a small number of appointments for genuine emergencies. For review of medications and results of tests (blood, xrays etc) such appointments are routine and cannot be booked for the same day. 

The Primary Care Trust recognises these pressures and to assist with appointments, we now have an additional clinician, Dr Michael Croft, who works here on Tuesdays. Dr Croft also works with us on Wednesdays in place of Dr Attias. 

We would remind adult patients who have internet access that appointments can be booked with the doctor online at any time of the day or night. We believe patients will find this an added convenience and saves trying to speak to the surgery at our busier times. This service is now been extended so that appointments can be booked through digital television sets or WAP enabled mobile phones. Patients must register at the surgery for this service and further information can be obtained at Reception. 

We also have a website with full details of our services and where we will post any news affecting patients. From the website you can book your appointment with the doctor and also communicate with the surgery on non-urgent matters. In due course it is expected that repeat prescriptions can be ordered through the website and eventually new patients may be able to register online. The address is:- 

www.arleseymedicalcentre.nhs.uk  

The surgery is open:- 

Monday               08.00 – 12.00                          14.00 – 18.00

Tuesday              08.00 – 12.00                          14.00 – 18.00

Wednesday         08.00 – 11.00

Thursday             08.00 – 12.00                          14.00 – 18.00

Friday                 08.00 – 12.00                          14.00 – 18.00 

Outside these hours please telephone the surgery on 01462 628128 to access emergency care. 

Health Shuttle to Lister Hospital

Just as a reminder, the shuttle is available to our patients who wish to travel to Lister Hospital Monday to Fridays (excluding Bank Holidays). Leaflets giving details of the service are available at the surgery, or call the Health Shuttle Desk on 01438 726219. 

OPERATION PINLOCK – THE BLUE LAGOON MURDER 

The decapitated body of 26-year-old Michael Gilbert was pulled from the Blue Lagoon on Sunday May 10th having been put there at the end of January. His body was wrapped in layers of plastic and in a wheelbarrow. 

Detectives from the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit are investigating his murder and want to speak to anyone who has information about his death or may have seen the people responsible disposing of his body in the lake. 

Enquiries have established that Michael was killed on or around the 21st of January 2009 and that his body was then dismembered and disposed of in the Blue Lagoon in Arlesey. 

Detective Chief Inspector Jon Humphries is leading the murder enquiry. He said: “Our enquiries are beginning to uncover the facts surrounding the murder of Michael Gilbert and as a result we have established that he was actually killed in January this year. Clearly this affects the time scales of the investigation and I would therefore like to renew my appeal for anyone who has information about what happened to Michael to contact the police.  

“Our original appeal was to people who frequent the Blue Lagoon in Arlesey only went back two weeks from when his body was discovered on Sunday May 10. We clearly need to be appealing to anyone who may have seen someone, or people acting suspiciously in and around the lake at the start of the year. So anyone who was around the lake at the end of January, particularly around 21st and 22nd, is urged to come forward and speak to the police.” 

“It is important to remember that daylight hours are short at this time of the year so it may have been dark when people were there. I would make a direct appeal to dog walkers and ask ‘Were you walking your dog at the time?’ as we believe those responsible may have encountered a dog walker who disturbed them.” 

Michael was from Luton and is survived by his mother, sister, three brothers and nephews and nieces. In a statement issued by his family he was described as the ‘BFG’ the Big Friendly Giant. They said:  

“He was only 26 when he was murdered and we are still shocked by what has happened to him, words cannot describe the anger we feel. Michael wouldn’t hurt a soul – he didn’t have it in him. He has been brutally murdered. If anyone has information about what happened to him and why then please contact the police and help bring his killers to justice.” 

Anyone with information about Michael’s murder should contact the Operation Pinlock Major Incident Room on 01707 355959, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or text Bedfordshire Police on 07786 200011. 

LOCAL BEAT MANAGER 

Report for the last 12 months: 

Anti-Social Behaviour: 

The reports of ASB between March ‘08 and February ’09 have been lower than the previous year. A lot of work has been undertaken through partnership to tackle the issues as they have arisen. The most recent example being the Operation between MBDC, British Transport Police and Beds Police at Arlesey Railway Station.

In 2008 restructuring work was completed at the Blue Lagoon and we have seen our best period for reports of ASB from this location.

The Community Safety Group has also reformed and is in the very early stages of re-establishing itself as another tool to help the community. 

The monthly breakdown is as follows:

2008:       March - 14                                             September - 25

                April - 26                                                October - 22

                May - 22                                                November - 10

                June - 24                                                December - 14

                July - 48                        2009:                January - 15

       August - 36                                            February - 28 

This gives a total of 284 incidents for the year with the worst months being July and August, which coincides with the School summer break. November saw the least amount of ASB reported, which is a surprise when the same month in 2007 caused the highest level of complaints for 2007. 

Crime: 

There have been a total of 207 crimes recorded for the period, which averages 17 per month. This is a fall of 26% on the total crime recorded in the previous year. However there were still significant peeks in recorded crime, which have greatly affected the total, these being May and December. 

The monthly breakdown is as follows:

2008:       March - 17                                             September - 26

                April - 14                                                October - 13

                May - 32                                                November - 12

                June - 10                                                December - 30

                July - 19                        2009:                January - 14

                August - 11                                           February - 9 

If anyone requires any more information please do not hesitate to contact me on:

01234 842513 or 01234 841212 or by email at steven.holbrook@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk or SNT.Arlesey@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk  

If you require any other information or advice please do not hesitate to contact any of

the numbers above, and if you are wanting to report a crime that you are witnessing

happening or you require immediate Police attention please dial 999.

PC Steve Holbrook, Biggleswade Police Station, Station Road, Biggleswade, Beds

SG18 8AL

Cold Calling Zone 

Trading Standards has designated the whole of Bedfordshire a No Cold Calling area, and incidents of Cold Calling can be reported directly to Trading Standards.

There is a lot of confusion and misunderstanding surrounding the No Cold calling scheme so here are a few pointers to help make some sense.

No Cold Calling zones are not legally enforceable and callers do not break any law at the first point of contact (they may do so if they are allowed to progress).

The scheme is designed to notify traders that they are likely to be challenged or turned away, and to remind householders that they can say no, and should not consider it rude to do so.

Many callers will be genuine but you should consider whether you would have bought their product if the caller, often using high pressure tactics, had not called.

Don’t be panicked into buying or paying for services. If your roof does need attention the chances are it will wait another 24 hours, while you get your own quotes, and find out if it’s really necessary.

Most high value purchases should be considered carefully, and quotes obtained from 2 or 3 companies in order to get the best deal. Ask neighbours where they obtained similar services, or products or contact Trading Standards Approved: 01234 228280 (or visit the website at www.bedfordshire.gov.uk/tsapproved

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH 

As we start the summer we must all be aware that crime does not stop. We must all be on our guard by keeping garages, sheds and outhouses securely locked at all times. Keep all tools under lock and key. Keep your eyes open for that stranger strolling around, also strange cars and vans, which could contain those uninvited guests who would break into and steal from our property. Due to the present recession we will find that villains will be more interested in our unlocked doors and windows especially to the rear of your property. Local Beat Officer PC Steve Holbrook has stated that the Neighbourhood Watch is doing well in Arlesey and we must keep the pressure on. Telephone 999 if a crime is spotted and also inform your street co-ordinator if known or contact John Button on 01462 732419 or June Adamson on 01582 473158. If you wish to join our watch contact John or June.  

TOWN PLAN UPDATE 

Work continues in identifying the 2005 Town Plan.

The Green Infrastructure Plan with the areas that we need to keep green has now been completed. I thank the organisations and residents who helped to identify the areas that are important to have as a greenway.

The cycle network plan has also been completed.

If anyone wishes to see these results I will be pleased to meet and discuss them with them.

Again this year we are asking for entries to the hanging basket and front garden Arlesey in Bloom Competitions. If you would like to enter please collect an entry form from the Council office.

Councillor Hugh Harper on 01462 731891. 

CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE CONTACT DETAILS 

CALL:                           0300 300 8000

CLICK:                         www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

EMAIL:                         customer.services@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

WRITE:                         Central Bedfordshire, Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford SG17 5TQ

VISIT:                           Six customer Service Centres at:

Ampthill – Woburn Street

Biggleswade – Saffron Road

Houghton Regis – Bedford Square (due to be opened May/June 2009)

Leighton Buzzard – West Street

Dunstable – High Street North (Council Offices)

Shefford – Priory House, Chicksands (Council Offices) 

Bottle banks are at:

Bury Mead                                All colours of bottles/ jars

Football Club                             All colours of bottles/ jars

Three Tuns PH                           All colours of bottles/ jars 

Clothing banks are at:

Arlesey Superstore, 82 House Lane and Three Tuns PH 

Methodist Church car park:         Paper (newspaper, magazines, etc)

(High Street)                              helps to raise funds for Methodist Church. 

Your Nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) 

Biggleswade, Bells Brook, behind Sainsburys, off A1 

If you are taking anything to the HWRC in a van or some type of trailer you will need a FREE PERMIT. Please call 01234 276386/408486. 

Summer Opening Times:

1 May to 31 August:                   9.00am – 7.00pm

Winter Opening Times:

1 September to 30 April:             9.00am – 5.00pm  

ARLESEY TOWN COUNCIL 

DOGGY BAGS

 

There is no need to let your dog foul on the recreation field where children play  

WE HAVE DOGGY BAGS IN THE OFFICE

please call in and collect them 

Office hours: Monday to Thursday 9am – 3pm Friday 9am to 12 noon 

ARLESEY GROUPS 

ARLESEY HISTORICAL ARCHIVE GROUP

The Historical Archive Group was set up by the Town Council’s Public Relations Committee. The archive material is managed from the Town Council Office and at the present time this is being categorised by the group.  If you are interested in becoming involved or in donating archive material please contact Mrs Lesley Rowe at the Town Council Office. The Group are always on the look out for old photographs of Arlesey, if you have any you think they may be interested in and you are willing to lend them to the group they would scan them and return them to you within days. The Archive Group will be taking photographs of Arlesey as it is today, if you do not want your property photographed could you please notify the Town Council Office.

TWO BLUES ART GROUP

The Adult Art Group meets each week at Arlesey Town Football Club on Thursdays from 9.30am to 12noon.  There is no annual fee only 50p per week towards tea/coffee and a Christmas Dinner. And membership to Arlesey Town Football Club is a nominal fee. There is no tutor, but we help each other as we have different abilities. 

Come and see what we do and have a coffee and a chat, you would be most welcome. Contact: Chris White – 01462 639468  

VIVACE 

Vivace is the local choir for Mid Beds and North Herts which brings together people of all abilities who love singing.   It helps if you can read a little music but there are no auditions, just come along and raise your voice with a friendly group of people.  Vivace is proud and privileged to be supported by our accompanist Kate Elmitt who has been making music for many years and our up and coming young music director John Andrews who has recently been on tour with the English Touring Opera Company, conducting at venues all over the UK.  Their combined musical knowledge and sense of fun makes learning new pieces a real pleasure.  

We meet in Arlesey on Wednesday evenings during term time and give about 3 concerts a year in venues around the area.  We recently took part in the Hitchin festival.  Move your voice out of the bathroom and onto the stage with a group of like minded, fun loving people! 

You can find out more from our website www.vivacechoir.co.uk. 

AISLE O’VAR BACKSWORDING CLUBBE LTD 

Have you ever thought about learning Traditional English Martial Arts?  

Well now's your chance! Come and learn TE-MA the ancient and noble science of defence both armed and unarmed. Study the art of swordsmanship using the single handed Backsword/Broadsword under the tuition of the 2008 UK Backswording  and English stick fighting Champion Peter Holland as well as indigenous English wrestling styles and Pugilism.

Clubs are held at Samuel Whitbread Community College, Shefford, Bedfordshire on Tuesday evenings at 7-30pm to 9pm and at Sandy Sports Centre, Sandy Upper School, Engayne Avenue, Sandy Bedfordshire 8pm to 9.30pm

Male/female 16+ 

For further information or to book your place contact Pete on 07880605377, email info@backswording.co.uk or go to www.backswording.co.uk

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES 

ARLESEY PRE-SCHOOL 

Arlesey Pre-School is held at the WI hall. We offer a warm friendly environment and quality childcare by qualified staff for children from 2-5 years.

We are ofsted registered and fully insured.

All needs are catered for and children do not need to be potty trained.
We are open Monday to Thursday 9.10am – 11.40am and 12.45pm – 3.15pm. On Fridays we are open from 9.10am – 11.40am.
We also offer luncheon club Monday to Thursday.

Please call in and see us anytime or telephone 07815 293670 for more information. 

ARLESEY NURSERY SCHOOL AND CHILDCARE CENTRE 

The Nursery is situated in the centre of the village and offers Nursery education for children from their 3rd birthday until the age of 5 years.  It offers Childcare facilities for children from 3 to 9 years. During term times the Nursery is open from 9am – 3.30pm and the childcare is open from 8am to 6pm.  The Holiday Club runs during most school holidays from 8am – 5.30pm. The Holiday Club is open to children aged 3 to 11 years old. Nursery is free and Childcare and Holiday Club costs £3.10 per hour.  The Nursery has a very large, well resourced classroom area and large garden and playground.  Childcare has its own room and also uses the garden, playground and classrooms. 

Children have 2½ hours free education every day in the Nursery until the term before they start school when they have 4½ days. The curriculum is planned according to the National Early Years Foundation Stage, i.e. planned daily activities and work with a staff member based on a child’s individual stage development. Children are closely monitored and records of their progress towards Early Learning Goals are kept. These records are available for children and parents to see at any time. 

The Nursery has 3 teachers and 3 Nursery Nurses. All staff  work with all the children but we are a key worker system that ensures close, personal support for each child.  We also have trainee teachers, NVQ 2 and 3 students and other childcare students throughout the term.

Visits to the Nursery are welcome – please phone for an appointment 01462 732168 email arleseynursery@schools.bedfordshire.gov.uk. Please also see our website: www.arlesey.beds.sch.uk     

Arlesey Parent and Toddler Group

 We meet during term time, every Tuesday and Thursday in the village hall between 9.00 and 11.30am. We welcome all parents and carers with children under 5.

The cost per session is just £1.50, which includes refreshments and raffle.

Recently we had the shed holding the toys upgraded and Bedford & Luton Community Foundation kindly donated  money to replace all the soft matting for the children to play on. Thank you to all the people who have kindly donated toys this is very much appreciated. This will allow the Toddler Group to resume their full facilities for carers and toddlers.

We are always looking for new committee members to help us run the group efficiently. 

Hope to see you soon!

Contact: Heidi Clark on 07794186280 or 01462 627533

ARLESEY
                                 

TOY
LIBRARY                                                           

                          

A large selection of toys are hired out
 to families in Arlesey and the surrounding villages.
We run a friendly service, it is a good way to meet new people 
and be a benefit to the community

Please call in to see us at the Village Hall
 on Tuesday or Thursday between 9.00 -11.00 am 
 

ARLESEY BEAVERS, CUBS AND SCOUTS

1st Arlesey Scout Group. We currently run a Beaver colony (6-8 years) on a Wednesday evening 6.15–7.30pm. A Cub pack (8-10 ½ years) on Monday evening, 6.30-8.00pm, a Scout Troop (10 ½ - 14 ½ years ) on Thursday evening, 7.00-9.00pm and Explorer Scouts 14½ -18 years ) on Tuesday evening 7.15-9.00pm.  These groups are open to BOTH boys and girls.

 We meet at the Scout Headquarters, Cluny Meadow. There is a waiting list in operation for Beavers and Cubs so please call to register your child and a place will be allocated to the appropriate group for your child’s age, when available.

 Call Stuart McGuire (A/Group Scout Leader) on 07762 732661 – “ALL WELCOME” 

ARLESEY RAINBOWS, BROWNIES AND GUIDES

For information on when Rainbows, Brownies and Guides meet please call  Mrs Helen Frost 07904 667179. 

ENVIRONMENTAL 

Arlesey Conservation for Nature (ACORN)  

Founded in 1993 ACORN carries out voluntary countryside maintenance around the village of Arlesey.   The group recently received a grant of £200 from Arlesey Town Council towards the purchase of a heavy duty mower to help in keeping the field footpaths clear. With the last two wet summers we have had, keeping the grass under control became a major task so this addition to the group’s toolkit is very welcome.  Work carries on unabated at the Old Moat Nature Reserve, the Glebe Meadows and Pix Green.  The group have produced a pack of circular walks guides for the village. Copies can be obtained (free) from the Town Council Office or the Resource Centre. 

If you would like to become involved in making Arlesey a greener place then contact the Secretary Madeleine Purdon on 01462 638347 or email acorn.arlesey@ntlworld.com

Glebe Meadows

The Glebe Meadows are situated near Arlesey Railway Station by the River Hiz.  There is ‘blue badge’ parking nearby with a ‘RADAR’ key operated kissing gate to the meadows. The riverside path is reasonably wheelchair friendly when dry. The management group made up of representatives from ACORN, Arlesey Town Council, The Wildlife Trust, BCNP and the Ivel and Ouse Countryside Project meet twice a year to look at the financing and general running of the meadows. The Town Council contributed £219.52 to help with the maintenance during the past twelve months. This is a reduction on last year and proves good value from John Rogers volunteer warden.

The meadows were grazed during the autumn and hopefully we should see more wildflowers. We have not spotted any bee-orchid plants this year but as they tend to grow as bi-annuals it is a matter of being patient and keeping a good look out during June when they flower. The hedge in the south meadow along the railway boundary has been trimmed by volunteers and two of the riverside willows have been pollarded. Willows tend to die off in the core of the trunk and rot. This creates a great habitat for a diversity of flora and fauna but tends to leave the tree a bit weak. By pollarding, it removes the weight of the crown and gives the trees a better chance to survive. Unfortunately one was blown over in the summer gales but we might see new growth from the remaining roots. Time will tell.

For volunteering contact acorn.arlesey@ntlworld.com 

WALK4HEALTH

Walks take place on Thursdays at 10.45. Current flyers are available at the Town Council Office or for further information please contact B & K Juffs on 01462 638286 or 07976895328 or M Purdon on 01462 731323 or 07977560324.

ARLESEY OLD MOAT NATURE RESERVE

If you can spare the time, why not join us on one or more of the following dates? New volunteers are always welcome at our work parties. Meet at the Old Bridge, or on the Nature Reserve itself. 

All work parties are from 10.00am – 1.00pm unless stated. 

Sunday                  14th June 2009

Sunday                  12th July 2009

August                   No Work Party 

We will be holding an ‘OPEN DAY’ at the Reserve on SUNDAY 25th October from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. We extend an invitation to you. The ‘OPEN DAY’ will mark 21 years of local voluntary work parties. 

For further information about the nature reserve, please contact:

Voluntary warden: Vic Williams 01462 731767 

SOCIAL 

ARLESEY WOMENS INSTITUTE

The WI meets in the WI Hall in the High Street every second Tuesday in the month at 7.30pm.  We have a very varied programme, enjoying speakers from all walks of life, demonstrations of crafts and making visits to local places of interest.  Our social events are always popular. We also join with other local WIs twice yearly for group meetings and, together with the Bedfordshire Federation meet in Bedford or Dunstable; we have lots of opportunities to hear many interesting speakers.  Visitors or new members are always welcome so please call in and see us. WI Hall available for booking for parties, dances etc. Contact: Katie Juffs 01462 638286 (anytime)

SPORTS 

ARLESEY KARATE CLUB (JKSK)

The Arlesey Karate Club is a part of the JKSK karate group lead by their chief instructor Sensei Gabriel Tan who is a fully qualified 3rd Dan Instructor certified by NAKMAS National Governing Body. The club trains in a friendly, fun and safe environment whilst maintaining the value and discipline of traditional Shotokan Karate. New beginners, adults and children from age 6 are always welcome to join the club. The Arlesey Karate Club trains every Thursday 6pm to 7pm at the WI Hall (next to the Community Centre), High Street, Arlesey, Beds SG15 6SN

For more information on Arlesey Karate Club or the JKSK group visit their website www.jksk.co.uk

Come and see us at the Arlesey Family Fun Day 

ARLESEY SHORT MAT BOWLS

The group was formed originally after Clive and Jean Batey, keen players, approached the Town Council with a view to using the Village Hall to form a club. 

Samuel Whitbread Community College included the sport in their Adult Further Education programme and provided a mat, fenders, bowls etc enabling the players to go ahead.  As numbers grew, Arlesey Town Council provided more equipment.

At present there are 18 regular players with a short waiting list.  No longer part of the Further Education programme the group meets every Friday in the Village Hall between 2-4pm. Further details from Betty Joyce on 01462 731647 

KUNDALINI YOGA at ARLESEY RESOURCE CENTRE 

What does Kundalini Yoga Do? 

The practise of Kundalini Yoga balances the glandular system, strengthens the nervous system and enables us to harness the energy of the mind and the emotions, so we can be in control of ourselves, rather than being controlled by our thoughts and feelings  

Every Tuesday Morning: 9.20am – 10.50am

Every Wednesday Evening: 7.30pm – 9.00pm  

It is the Yoga of Awareness. It is Fun & Friendly. Come along and give it a go

Only £5 per session 

Any enquires call Jane on 01462 731543

Kung Fu & Chinese Boxing Fitness Class For Children 

Come Train With Laoshi Darren Mitchell

(Black Belt & Silver Medallist in National Championships 2006)

If You Are Aged Between 6-17 Years Old Come To My Class At:

Arlesey Village Hall

Every Monday Night 6-7pm (Starting Monday 7th September)

Call – 07718702299 or 01462 733877

Your First Class is Absolutely FREE !!!!!!  

MULTI USE GAMES AREA (MUGA)

(situated at the rear of the WI Hall is available to hire for modest charges.)

From 1 April 2008 Arlesey Town Council took over the management and running of the MUGA from Arlesey Sports Association.  The Town Council will in time, improve facilities at the MUGA.  New arrangements for the booking facilities also started from the 1 April 2008 and you will now need to contact the Town Council Office between 9am – 3pm Monday to Thursday or 9am – 12 noon Friday.  For regular users of the MUGA other booking arrangements outside these hours can be accommodated by contacting Elsie or Lesley on 01462 733722  

ARLESEY TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB – 01462 734504 

ARLESEY TOWN YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB

Arlesey Town Youth FC have 13 teams at present, which range from under 7 years old to under 17's, over 170 players in all, including a girls team.

 The Club prides itself on giving playing opportunities to local children, is keen to attract new players at all levels and seeks to attain the highest standards both 'on' and 'off' the field.  We are an F.A. Charter Standard Community Club, a friendly and open Club and we always welcome the involvement of the player's parents to continue the Club's progress.  Please visit our website: www.atyfc.co.uk

For more information on ATYFC contact Club Chairman, Trevor Flint on 01462 834360. 

                INFORMATION COLUMN 

Age Concern    (Bedfordshire)                           01234 360510

Alcohol Services for the Community (Bedford) 01234 344133

Bedford General Hospital                                 01234 355122

Bedfordshire Highways                                     01234 228661

Bogus Caller Hotline                                         08454 040506

Children’s Information Service                         01234 228229

Childline                                                           0800 1111

Citizens’ Advice Bureau (Biggleswade)            01767 601368

Cruse Bereavement Care                                 01767 312997

Early Years Helpline                                         01234 228120

Larksfield Surgery                                            01462 732200

Lister Hospital                                                   01438 314333

Sexual Health Direct                                        0845 1228690

NHS Direct                                                        0845 46 47

Ofsted Complaints Line                                    0845 6014772

Parentline Plus                                                 01707 393937

Register of Births, Deaths and Marriages        

            Biggleswade                                         01234 290450

            Hitchin and Stevenage                         01438 316579

Relate                                                               01234 356350

Samaritans                                                       08457 909090

                                                                         or 01462 455333

Talk to FRANK (drug abuse)                              0800 776600                 

QUIT (helping smokers to quit)                          0800 002200 

WORSHIP

St Peter’s Church, Church of England, Church Lane, Arlesey

The Reverend Susan Edwards – 01462 731227 

Methodist Church, High Street, Arlesey

The Reverend Brian Trudgian – 01462 834791 

King’s Baptist Church, Stotfold – Reverend Philip Amos

King’s Baptist Church Office – 01462 730521 

St Francis of Assisi, Catholic, High Street, Shefford

Canon Ben Noonan – 01462 813436 

The Church of Our Lady Immaculate and St Andrew, Catholic

16 Nightingale Road, Hitchin

Father Michael Lambert – 01462 459126

MOBILE LIBRARY 

The Mobile Library visits the following stop on alternative Wednesdays

Jubilee Crescent 3.50pm – 4.10pm 

SCHOOLS 

Arlesey Nursery School,

Headteacher – Mrs Penny Mason, High Street, Arlesey SG15 6SL -

01462 732168 

Gothic Mede Lower School,

Headteacher – Jacqueline Bradford

High Street, Arlesey SG15 6SL - 01462 732002 

Etonbury Middle School,

Headteacher – Mr I Mitchell, Stotfold Road, Arlesey  - 01462 730391 

Samuel Whitbread School,

Principal – Mr R Robson, Shefford Road, Clifton -01462 851200 

HEALTH FACILITIES

Dentist – practice in Stotfold – 01462 731938

Opticians – practice in Stotfold – 01462 732393

ARLESEY PHARMACY 

31 High Street, Arlesey, Beds SG15 6RA. Tel: 01462 731200. Fax: 01462 834068 

Arlesey Pharmacy has been under new management since 2006. Mr Samil Shah MRPharmS is the new superintendent pharmacist and owner. 

The pharmacy now benefits from extended opening hours, which are as follows: 

Monday to Friday                  8.45am – 1.00pm                                2.30pm – 6.15pm               

Saturday and Sunday           Closed  

The pharmacy provides numerous FREE services, some of which are listed below: 

·          Repeat prescription “drop-off” and collection service from Arlesey Medical Centre and Larksfield (Stotfold) Surgery

·          Prescription delivery service to ALL Arlesey residents

·          Medicines and advice on common illnesses, health promotion and local health and social support

·          Disposal of unwanted medicines

·          Medicine Use Review – this is an opportunity for you to discuss with your pharmacist any issues you may have with your medication

·          Smoking cessation support

·          Care Home medication and documentation supply  

Please visit or ring the pharmacy on 01462 731200 for further details 

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT PHARMACY

 The newsletter was produced by the Town Clerk - apologies given for any inaccuracies. Please inform the Town Clerk if you spot any so that they can be rectified for the next newsletter.  

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Web Site Last Updated:  July 2010
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