June/July/August 2009 Issue 20

Craft Demonstrations

Games Magic Show

Cheer Leaders

Funfair

Stalls

Glider Plants

Refreshments

FREE ADMISSIONClapham Parish Council

Receipts and Payments Account for the year ended 31st March 2009

Year Ended Year Ended31st March 2008 31st March 2009

RECEIPTS 1596.51 Allotment Fees 1952.40 - Bedford Borough Council 2000.00 - Beds Rural Communities Charity 450.00 2191.71 Bottle Bank 1534.22 1640.00 Burial Fees 1390.00 1000.00 Bus Shelters - 4341.13 Colts Football Club - 400.41 Fete 786.30 11335.71 Garage Rent 11521.69 5.00 General Administration 5.00 2380.86 Grass Cutting 2440.39 42.48 Insurance 262.50

4026.93 Interest 1312.30 - Parish Council Office 85.00 1995.00 Parish Plan - 29.88 Photocopying 37.00 - Play Equipment 8000.00 50000.00 Precept 50000.00 - Riverside Gardens 3000.00 11141.92 VAT Refund 3259.74 20333.15 Village Hall 144.59 1330.00 Village Hall Car Park 840.00 673.50 Village of Year Competition - 114464.19 TOTAL RECEIPTS 89021.13

PAYMENTS 1395.42 Allotments 2434.93 - Beds Rural Communities Charity 316.26 998.31 Bottle Bank 1313.11 1346.90 Burial Ground 453.38 3816.75 Bus Shelters 758.63 4376.13 Colts Football Club 3612.00 450.00 Ditch - 500.00 Dog Bins - 8317.00 Donations (section 137) 410.00 616.72 Fair 615.05 4602.00 Garages 901.00

- Gazebos 444.68 26934.25 General Administration 23984.72 7622.00 Grass Cutting 12249.64

admin Insurance/Subscriptions 3297.32 415.66 Jubilee Clock 257.66

- Parish Council Office 4601.92 371.78 Parish Plan 14.00 - Play Equipment 35392.61 - Playing Field Trust 18000.00 5500.00 Police Community Support Officer - 2368.59 Publicity/Stationery 2761.92 1583.98 Riverside 1107.19 - Scout Hut 108.76 290.00 Seats - 429.48 Street Lighting/Footpaths 543.98 14141.72 VAT 9311.07 25.53 Village Signs 78.04 53013.69 Village Hall 3401.65 171.04 Village of the Year - 139286.95 TOTAL PAYMENTS 126369.52

Parish Council Accounts for the year ended 31 st March 2009

Receipts in 2008/9 amounted to £89,021.13 and payments to £126369.52. These figures exclude the Playing Field Trust, which on the auditors’ instruction has been separated from the Parish Council account. The fall in receipts of £25443.06 was the result of a reduction in grants of approximately £14,000 (£20,000 had been received from Bedford Borough Council in 2007/8 towards the re-roofing of the Village Hall) a reduction in the VAT refund of approximately £8000 again as a result of the cost of the Village Hall roof in 2007/8 and a fall in interest payments of £3,000.

Payments decreased by £12,917.43 largely because of the £51,000 spent on the Village Hall roof in 2007/8, which was offset by £35,000 spent on new play equipment in 2008/9. VAT payments reduced by £5000 because of expenditure on the roof in 2007/8 and the reduction in the VAT rate in 2008/9. In addition, the ending of the scheme allowing villages to fund their own PCSO reduced payments by £5500, plus refurbishment of bus shelters cost £3000 and security locks for the garages also cost £3000 in 2007/8. The reduction of £8000 in donations was offset by the transfer of the £8000 grant to the Village Hall in 2007/8 to £4600 rent for the Parish Office and £3612 grant to the Colts for the rent for their premises in 2008/9. Donations of £410 were made to MacMillan Cancer Care, Clapham Colts 15th Anniversary celebration, the Villager Minibus, the Royal British Legion, Oakley Day Care Centre and the Village Hall. The additional £4600 spent on grass cutting was the result of £3000 spent in 2007/8 not being invoiced until 2008/9 and offset by a general increase in costs.

Income and expenditure on The Playing Field Trust amounted to £18,420.00 and £44,209.28 respectively in 2008/9. Of the income £420 was received in rent for the football pitches in 2008/9 and £18,000 from the Parish Council for maintaining and upgrading the Playing Field and Millennium Park, which forms part of the Trust, in 2009/10. Expenditure comprised £9,341.65 on running costs and £34,867.63 on repairing the existing play equipment and installing new equipment.

Parish Clerk’s Report

At the recent AGM, Alan Cruse was again elected as Chairman and David Hope as Vice-Chairman. Faith Merrill and Ted Johnson have retired as Playing Field and Allotment caretaker respectively and our thanks to them for all their hard work over many years.

Planning permission has been received for the new parish office and Council will be applying for grants to fund the purchase and installation of the building. CCTV cameras will be installed in the car park at the same time as the office. Because of abuse of the residents’ parking zone, clamping came into force in that part of the car park on 25th May. Further details of the scheme are below.

The fishing platforms for Riverside Gardens, which will be funded by a grant from the old County Council, have now been delivered and will be installed as soon as possible.

Playing Field TrustResidents whose properties back onto the Playing Field have again asked the Trust to remove some of the trees at the top of the Field because of young people using them as football goals. A permanent goal has already been provided away from houses and the Trust refused the request on the grounds that public money could be better spent elsewhere in the village.

The Charity Commission has tightened its regulations and no longer allows the Trust to let other charities use its facilities free of charge. Therefore, from the beginning of the 2009/10 season, the Colts will have to make a small contribution towards the cost of the upkeep of the Changing Rooms and pitches. The Colts will continue to receive the annual grant of £3612.00 from the Parish Council towards the cost of their premises.

Ann PaiceClerk to the Council

VILLAGE HALL CAR PARK

Please be aware that from 25th May 2009, clamping was introduced in the parking

bays around part of the perimeter of the Village Hall car park, because of abuse of

“residents only” parking. The clamping zone extends from the entrance gate behind

the houses in Highbury Grove to the Playing Field fence and from the entrance gate

behind the houses in the High Street to the concrete strip opposite the Scout Hut.

Vehicles parking in these bays without a valid permit, which includes a vehicle

registration number, may be clamped at any time.

Clapham Village Hall AGM Chairperson’s Report - 12th May 2009

On 13th May 2008, I was elected as a trustee onto the Village Hall Management Committee and reluctantly took over the role of Chairperson after Mollie Foster had stepped down. I say reluctantly, because I knew that throughout the year I would have to conjure a busy work schedule and family commitments to allow me to continue with the post. I would like to thank all of the committee for their continued support throughout the year. On some occasions, I was unable to attend meetings and I relied upon them to continue without me.

Near the beginning of the financial year, Marlene and Eddy Pearson were co-opted onto the committee and Marlene took over the role of Treasurer.She has worked tirelessly on building up an operating reserve raised from lettings and grant money to fund future upgrading of the hall. Eddy Pearson, John Keech and Rob Grove have taken on the roles of Buildings and Maintenance overseeing repairs and liaising with workmen. My thanks go to Sheila Bull who resigned during the year after serving for some years on the committee.

A joint meeting of the Village Hall Committee, the Parish Council and the BedsRCC (Rural Communities Charity)was held to discuss whether it would be a good idea for both the playing field and Village Hall to be managed by one committee, after much discussion it was agreed by all parties that in the case of Clapham this would not be a good idea. The meeting was very constructive and communicative and I appreciate the help and advice we received, particularly around moving forwards with grant applications. Throughout the year, the Trustees have been well aware that the hall needed upgrading to make it competitive. This year, the kitchen and toilets have had new floor tiles laid and the toilets have been refurbished with new doors. The committee have also been busy collating information and obtaining quotes to apply for a grant which would be their focus for the next 12 months.

Charges for the hire of the Hall have remained the same for the past 2 years and I would like to see them reviewed and made more affordable to the residents of Clapham whilst keeping us competitive with others. I would also like to see us review the hire form. These would be issues for a future committee.

I am grateful for the support of the Parish Council both to myself and the Village Hall Management Committee. Finally I am especially thankful of all the hardwork done by Pam Williams, our secretary. I have enjoyed the experience of working as Chairperson on the Village Hall committee, for the benefit of Clapham residents.

Chris WebbChairperson 2008/09

Village Hall Bookings

To hire the Village Hall or Committee Rooms please call Mr. Del-Boyer on 01234 348378

Ursula Taylor VC Lower SchoolLife at Ursula Taylor continues to be very busy. The highlight of last term had to be the school choir achieving first place in the Junior Choir at the Bedfordshire Festival for the fourth year running and, this year, being awarded the Bedford Choral Society prize for the best youth choir. As a result of this the choir were asked to sing at the final Gala Night of the Bedfordshire Festival and were then invited to perform in the Ouse Valley Festival Youth Choirs Concert alongside two national finalist choirs. This was a great honour and our thanks go to the Reverend Stephen Liley and Miss Sam Wintle for all their work with the choir. Following the success of the choir, children in the school poetry group also went on to win first place in their class and the creative expression group gained second place in their class where they were much the youngest group of competitors. Our thanks again go to Ms Sandra Campbell who has trained the children so well.Following our very successful Ofsted inspection in February the school then underwent a rigorous inspection as part of the Statutory Inspection of Anglican Schools. This also went very well with a grading of ‘good’ for Collective Worship and Leadership and Management and ‘outstanding’ for the Christian distinctiveness of the school. We were extremely pleased with this result which reflects the close partnership the school has with the Reverend Liley and other members of the church and local Christian community. Both inspection reports can be accessed from our website: www.ursulataylorschool.co.uk We do not rest complacent following our inspections and have plans to improve our school further.A rich and engaging curriculum is an important part of our school with children enjoying visits to the Chiltern Open Air Museum, the Roman Villa at Milton Keynes and themed days such as Medieval Day and French Day (the children even performed in French for their parents at the end of the day!). Our extra curricular activities continue to be well supported with new clubs in ‘Magic’, Tri-golf and Cheerleading besides football, healthy cooking and choir. This term we are looking forward to taking the Year 4 children on a camping trip to Great Barford in June.The Parents, Teachers and Friends Association has been very active throughout the year and has recently raised funds and acquired funding thanks to the Harpur Trust and Councillor Jane Walker for the erection of a Bird Hide in the school garden. This will be another very useful resource for the school, further enhanced by the enthusiasm of many staff for gardening!Should anyone with young children wish to visit the school prior to making an application for a place please telephone us on 01234 359128.

Lindsey Fraser Headteacher

Clapham Scout Group

Many thanks to everyone who supported the Charity Quiz Night at the Horse & Groom at the end of March.   Special thanks to Louise and Peter for organising the event which raised 200.00 for Group funds

Peter Hardwick - Group Scout Leader - 01234 402718Kings AFC – Season 2008/09

Several key players had left including star striker Nathan Clements & key defender Danny Cain joining Kempston AFC, wing wizard Mike Whelen joined the Navy and Josh Clements had work commitments. Club Captain, Adam Haywood was ruled out for the entire campaign through injury in the opening weekend of fixtures, meaning the squad had several new faces joining.

Club Management Team of Stuart Minty (Manager), Lee Morgan (Assistant Manager) and Stephen Wilson (Chairman) had to rearrange the squad to ensure we remained competitive.

Highlights of the campaign were a semi final of the County Cup and a quarter final of the Jubilee Cup. We finished 7th (out of 14 teams), but finished the season strongly with no defeats in the last 6. Marcus Tomlin finished Top League Goal scorer with 15, followed by Josh Clements on 8 and Lee Morgan with 8.

The pre season will start end of July and Kings AFC are recruiting for new players. Training location is to be confirmed. Anyone over the age of 17yrs interested in joining – please contact either:

Stuart Minty - 07900 413080Lee Morgan - 07834 241565

We run a local team and believe in generating a good team spirit! To check the Club out, please logon to www.kingsafc.co.uk

Lee Morgan

Clapham Concert Party

It gives me great pleasure to announce that Clapham Concert Party raised £1,386.26, this being the proceeds from "The Wizard of Ouse".  A big thank you to the cast, those who bought tickets, donated raffle prizes or helped in anyway.The village organisations to benefit this year are as follows:

Ursula Taylor Lower School (swimming pool liner), Village Hall, Senior Citizens Christmas Lunch, PowerPoint, Colts Football Club, Keech Cottage, Clapham Pre-School, M.S. Society and Cancer Research.Finally none of this would have been possible without the talent of the young and not so young of this village.  They have fun, work hard and entertain you, so please support the group by coming to this year's panto, a great favourite, CINDERELLA. Remember the more people that come the more money for your organisations!Auditions are on Sunday, 5th July 2009 2.00pm – 4.00pm in the Village Hall.

Sue GroveChairpersonClapham Parish Church Clapham Parish Church offers a range of services to suit your tastes, all with biblically based teaching. In addition to our traditional services of 8am Holy Communion, and 11am Morning Praise, we run a service called Sunday@9.30. This is a modern worship service run each week of the year. It’s especially suited for children (they don’t have to sit still or be quiet, honestly!) and is attended by folks of all ages. Together with joyful worship, we encourage each other in our faith in Jesus Christ today. You'd be most welcome! There's also The Presence - 3rd Sunday @ 6.30pm - informal worship in an interactive service, including drama, movie clips, images and up to date music.

We also run a full range of children's activities, including toddler group (Little Monkeys), Sunday School (with crèche), 10-13s Club (RockSolid2) and 14-18s group (CYFA). Bring your kids along to try us out. So why not take time out to meet with God by coming along to any or all of our church events? We’d love to meet you and share the hope we have in Jesus Christ with you!

New Horizons – For older adults, we meet on Thursday afternoons (2 - 4pm) and start with a Gentle Exercise Class, but also have craft activities, games and computer Internet access, which is all FREE of charge. It’s a great chance to meet others, enjoy some refreshments, and trying something NEW!

Little Monkeys - Each Thursday morning in term time we run our toddler group. Please see separate article for details of this.

Clapham Historical Society

2009 started with a trip to Bletchley Park with an excellent guide who showed us much more than we had seen on previous visits. A private tour of Turvey House follows in May and in June a visit to Stowe School and the gardens. Further details can be obtained from:

Chair……. Mollie Foster….01234 350353Secretary…Jenny Mosley…01234 328454

Plenty of time still to join as the new season is only beginning.

Party in the Park Sunday 21st June, 2.00pm – 4.30pm

Once again the churches of Clapham are running a FREE event for the village involving lots of fun activities and games, including Craft Activities, BBQ & Cream Teas, but also providing a chance to worship and pray in the open air.

Clapham Colts Football Club would like to take the opportunity to thank all the parents and the people of the village that have made it another very successful season for the colts who continue to go from strength to strength. With the U15s and the U13s both finishing 2nd, U12s finishing in 4th, U11s finishing in 6th, while the U14s are still battling it out at the top of the league, of course all this success would not be possible without the time and effort put in by all the managers who year after year give 100% to the club, the girls and boys not only learn about playing as a team but also respect for the game and that of their fellow teams mates and managers. Clapham Colts are well respected in the village and that’s thanks to a great club and great people behind it. Please note that all of the adults involved in the club have been through a CRB check for the safety of the children.

If you would like to learn more about Clapham Colts FC or indeed would like to join us then you can contact one of the mangers.

Martin U16s 01234 360269Andy U15s 01234 315389Pete U14s 07871908046Warren U13s 07966443332Richard U12s 07929557473Ross U9s 07737816287Sian U8s 07833489681

Chris FothergillSecretary

The Sunshine Club continues to meet at Clapham Club. Come and see us any Monday, except Bank Holidays, about 1.30pm. Bingo starts at 2.00pm. We also have raffles, a lottery syndicate, bonus numbers draw, tea and coffee break along with friendly chatter. For information contact:

Joan Clark………………..01234 313297 OrLinda Shipp………………01234 363097

DIARY OF EVENTSAny information for inclusion in the diary should be sent to the editorial team at mavis.nicholson1@ntlworld.com or to The Village Hall.

Regular EventsMondayBaby CollegeMethodist Church HallTerm Time Only

Mike’s Line Dancing1.30 -2.30pmVillage Hall

Sunshine Club 1.30 - 4.00pm Clapham Club

Beavers 6.00 - 7.30pm Scout Hut Term Time Only

Royal BritishLegion7.30pmSecond Monday of Month

Mike's Line Dancing Beginners 7.00- 8.30pmIntermediate 8.30-10.00pm Village Hall

TuesdayMelody Makers Under 2s 9.30-11.00am 4 months – 5 years Scout Hut Term Time Only

Rainbows 4.30 - 6.00pm Methodist Church Hall Term Time Only

Brownies 6.00 - 7.30pm Methodist Church Hall Term Time Only

Clapham Ladies 7.30pm Village Hall First Tuesday of Month

Clapham Parish Council 7.30pm Village Hall Third Tuesday of Month

WednesdaySchool for Seniors9.15am – 4.00pmMethodist ChurchAutumn & Spring terms

Mike's Line Dancing Beginners 1.30 - 2.30pm Village Hall

Ballet/Modern Dance 4.30 - 8.30pm Methodist Church Hall Term Time Only

Cubs 6.45 - 8.15pm Scout Hut Term Time Only

Weight Watchers 7.00pm Village Hall

ThursdaySlimming World 6.00 - 7.00pm Methodist Church Hall

Mike's Line Dancing Beginners 6.30 - 7.30pmIntermediate 8.30 - 9.30pm Village Hall

Kick Boxing 7.30 - 8.30pm Village Hall

FridayTumble Tots

9.30am - 12.00 noon Village Hall Term Time Only

Scouts 7.00 -9.00pm Scout Hut Term Time Only

Youth Club 7.00 - 9.30pm Methodist Church Hall Fortnightly Term Time Only

Other Events

Friday, 19th June Bird Club Auction 7.00pm – 9.00pm Village HallSunday, 21st June Party in the Park 2.00pm – 4.30pm Playing FieldSaturday, 27th June Country Fair 1.00pm onwards Village Hall & Playing FieldFriday, 17th July Bird Club Auction 7.00pm – 9.00pm Village HallFriday, 24th July Blood Doning 12.00noon – 9.00pm Village HallFriday, 21st August Bird Club Auction 7.00pm – 9.00pm Village Hall

The Royal British LegionThe Branch celebrates its 25th Anniversary since being reformed in March 1984. Sadly a lot of the members have passed away since the reformation but there are still a few younger ones still active. Since 1984 the Branch has helped many ex service and those in service with welfare grants, respite care holidays, obtaining electrical power vehicles, carrying out hospital visits and home visits. The Branch is very much involved with the Remembrance Day Services, always held on the second Sunday in November. The siting and the construction of the new War memorial which stands near the ford was due to the very hard work of Legion members, especially Mr Joe Tranquada. The Branch has had many members on the County Committee since 1984, including the County President, County Chairman, County Treasurer and County Parade Marshall. The Branch sends a delegate to the National Conference each year including this year’s conference in Eastbourne. When the Women’s Branch disbanded the branch was fortunate to have some of them join us and we thank those who still help with the Poppy Appeal. This year the Poppy Appeal will exceed £10,000.00 for the first time.The Branch meets on the second Monday of each month at the Clapham Club at 7.30pm. After the Branch business has been concluded we have a very good guest speaker. At the May meeting we had an enlightening talk about Cockney slang with the guest speaker being dressed as a pearly king. If you would like to become a member or would like to know more about the Legion please give our Secretary a call on Bedford 363097. Membership is open to everyone that supports the aim of the Legion.Ro Haggerwood – Chairman Clapham Branch

Little Monkeys – Clapham Parish Church

A toddler group run by the church that meets every Thursday from 9.30am to 11.30am at the Fellowship Centre during term time only. Weekly creative activity – song time – space to chat and play. Free. Join us for tea, coffee and cakes.

More information from Martin on 01234 306233 or Sue on 012340352814

Clapham Rovers

Clapham Rovers enjoyed their first season playing at the pinnacle of local Sunday morning football and after five games, all seemed well. In fact they felt on top of the world having seen off illustrious opponents such as Queensmen, Partizan and Supreme on their way to a 100% start and flying high at the top of the league. Alas their world came crashing down as the aging squad, captained by Neil Dowse, suddenly started to feel the strain as injuries and unavailability struck. November and December were not great months as their proud record was destroyed and an early exit from the County and League Cup saw their season falter. A late rally with victories over Newtown and Bedford Sunday plus a stunning 4-4 draw with Royal Oak meant they finished the season just below mid table. Not bad for a squad with an average age of 36! All the squad are now looking forward to their end of season treat, chairman Richard Hames, takes them to Derby County’s Pride Park to play in a prestigious winner takes all grudge match against an all star XI. They lost narrowly last year so are hoping for a reverse this time.  Dominic Wilford

Have your say on the future of Clapham

Come along to the Planning for Real gazebo at the Clapham Country fair on Saturday 27th June 2009 to tell us what you think about living in Clapham.There will be a large-scale map of Clapham in which you can place your suggestions to tell us what you feel needs changing or enhancing in the parish.Members of the Clapham parish Plan group will be present to answer any questions and to listen to your views.

For further information about the event or the Clapham parish plan please contact:

Ro Haggerwood telephone 01234 352762

Village Hall Caretakers

Jeanette Donnell - 01234 353084and

Jenny Carroll - 01234 303979 or 07923412088

27 High Street, Clapham, Bedford MK41 6EQ

Clapham Methodist Church is one of a group of seven churches in the area, called a Circuit. The minister, Rev Jacqueline Owen, is responsible for 3 of them – Clapham, Oakley and Sharnbrook. John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, set up church groups like this to enable them to support each other locally, much as the early Christian Church did. The Church looks to follow the example of Jesus and his disciples in whatever we are doing in the community.

Be assured of a warm welcome if you would like to join with us.Worship times at the Church are -1st Sunday of the month 8.15am Holy Communion and bring and share breakfastEvery Sunday 10.00am Worship Service with Junior ChurchThe 1st Sunday of the month is a Family Service when all ages worship together. This is usually a much more informal type of service and is appropriate for all ages.These services are followed by a cup of tea or coffee in the Hall afterwards.Midweek activities for everyoneTuesday Coffee Morning 8.45 – 11.15am Drop in for a break, have a cup of tea or coffee and a toasted teacake. Bric-a-brac, greeting cards and clothing on sale. Women’s Fellowship Thursdays (alternate) at 2.30pmA meeting for friendship and fellowship followed by a cup of tea and cake. A variety of speakers come to share their message Youth Club Alternate Fridays during School Terms at 7.30pmYouth Club is for 9 – 13 year olds. A fun evening with games, crafts, table tennis, snooker and tuck shop, with a Christian message.

We will be joining with the Parish Church to run Party in the Park and PowerPoint. Look out for further information about both those events.Looking Ahead to Special Events at the Church –Friday 26th June 7.00 – 10.00pm Craft Evening with refreshments. All tuition and materials will be supplied. Come along and try up to 6 different crafts. Tickets £4 adults, £3 children from Jady Haggerwood 01234 352762.Harvest Festival Sunday 27th September Services at 10am and 3pm. The afternoon service will be followed by a tea.

Contact DetailsMinister – Rev Jacqueline Owen 01234 822143To book the Church premises – Katharine Nelson 01234 343411Clapham Society of Gardeners

The Clapham Society of Gardeners offer gardening requirements from composts, pots, trays and canes to Netlon sold off the reel (whatever size you

require), fertilisers, grow bags, liquid fertilisers and sundries. We are the only gardening society to sell bags of soot in 80litre bags, a fine fertiliser for your garden. We also sell seed potatoes from Scotland - the best and growers vegetable seeds from Kings - the grower’s seed merchant. Why are we telling you this! Why not call at the trading hut on the allotments, open 10.00am till mid-day on Sundays (other times can be arranged).We are affiliated to the National Society of Allotment & Leisure Gardeners. You don’t have to be an allotment holder and it only costs £3 a year to be a member.So come and see us, you won’t be disappointed.

Mr Ken BookerSecretary

New Horizons Holidayclub – Weds 12th – Sun 16th August. This is a FREE event for adults, including many varied and fun activities, outdoor games, film, a day trip out, and barbecue. Meals are provided too! It’s a great opportunity to have a lot of fun and make NEW friends, and it’s ALL FREE! Look out for details, or ring Sue on 295211.

School for Seniors is on its summer break at present but will return in September. Full details of the new school year will be given in the next issue of this magazine. We are pleased to welcome new members from outside Bedford and even had a couple join us from Biggleswade last term. In the meantime any queries to:

Chair………..Jady Haggerwood……..01234 352762Secretary……Jenny Mosley………….01234 328454

The Lodge Summer Fete

The residents of The Lodge are holding a fete on Saturday 1st August.There will be a raffle, tombola, a bric-a-brac stall, homemade cakes and much more.The fete begins at 2.00pm and entry is 50p.

Time Capsules

Thank you to those of you who gave us information on the time capsules. We hope to do an article on them in a future publication.PowerPoint

PowerPoint is a Christian Holidayclub running from Tuesday 28th July - Friday 31st July + Sunday 2nd August. This year we are running SHOWSTOPPERS!

Look out for posters and letters inviting youngsters 5-13 (Yrs R - 8) to join us for a great time together in the summer!

Clapham Country Fair

The Fair will be held this year on Saturday 27th June.

On the field, as well as a variety of stalls, there will be classic cars, motorbikes and even a glider, on show. The Raptor Foundation will be bringing the owls to see us. The ever – popular barbeque will be back, as will the beer tent, stocks and the fair. Cheerleaders and line-dancers will entertain you throughout the afternoon.In the hall, there will be chamber music to listen to whilst you have your tea and cake. Magic George will give a show for children of all ages and will also is performing “strolling magic” on the field.The Fair will begin at 1.00pm and entrance is free. We look forward to seeing you. There are still a few places available for stalls – free to charities and local organisations, £10 to others. Car-booters this year will be charged £5 per table.To book, call 01234 346366 or email mavis.nicholson1@ntlworld.com

Roman Catholic Church Services

For information on services please contact:

Father Tony Brennan, 2 Severn Way, Bedford. Tel 01234 352607OrFather Malcolm Bull, Tel 01234 350628

Articles for the Village News

This newsletter is published quarterly. Any articles for inclusion in Issue 21 can be dropped into the Parish Council Office or emailed to mavis.nicholson@ntlworld.com by 14th August. Please appreciate that, as there are space and budgetary restrictions, the editorial team reserve the right to amend or omit material.

Clapham Show STEERING GROUP

2009 celebrates the 25 th annual Clapham Show and Fun Day!

It will be held on Saturday 5th September at the Village Hall and on the Playing Field from 1pm – 5pm.

As it is our silver anniversary we are planning the best show ever! A fun packed afternoon for everyone to enjoy, centred on our well-established produce and handicraft show.

The success of the Show and Fun Day requires your involvement; if you are a local organisation or group that would like a stand at the show; if you are an individual who would like to help on the day or with the planning before hand; if you are someone who would like to sponsor any part of the show or donate a raffle prize, please contact either John Creasey on Bedford 313 404 (the-creaseys@jsc-jac.wanadoo.co.uk), Louise Marshall on Bedford 217532 (johnandlouise174@btinternet.com) or Lynne Gray on 07968292494 (lynnerosie@hotmail.com) for further information.

The quality of the show depends upon the number of entrants on the day and, once again, we are using the Clapham Newsletter to ask everyone in the village, how can I be involved?

Now is the time to sow your prize winning vegetables and flowers. Not only will you produce wonderful fruit, vegetables and flowers, you will find satisfaction in knowing that you have grown them yourself – no food miles!

Show classes will not only include vegetables, fruit, and flowers but also floral art, preserves, cookery, fabric art, photography and arts and crafts. There is an opportunity for everyone to enter, including children of all ages. Whether you enjoy photography, knitting, model making, cooking or jam making, please enter the show. Who knows, you could win a trophy or possibly two! Why not try!!!

Once again there will be a variety of games on the field, displays, local stalls and stands, as well as much, much more. Let’s not forget the football tournament, the raffle and the auction of show produce. Be assured, you are guaranteed a most enjoyable afternoon.

Don’t forget to look out for the schedule of classes and entry form - due to be delivered to your door in August.

We look forward to seeing you on the 5th September 2009

Chairman: John CreaseyTelephone: 01234 313404

Reflections

When I look back over the past seventy-odd years I have seen tremendous changes that have taken place – but are they for the better? Well, I suppose some are and some are not.The way we buy, cook and store food is constantly changing from when I was young. In Clapham you would often see the baker riding his bicycle with a large wicker basket on the front of it full of various loaves, or another would come round from house to house with a full basket from which to choose your loaf.Before, and even during the war years the milk was delivered by pony and trap with a large milk churn in the trap. Also the Co-op man would come around Clapham delivering in his lorry. Tinsley’s Dairies would deliver milk with an electric cart pulled by hand by Jean, the milk lady. They used glass bottles during this time (returnable the next day) in pints or half pints. Today, there is just one van that still delivers. Nowadays we mostly get our milk from the supermarket in plastic bottles, as well as our bread and nearly everything we need come to that.Gone are the old kitchen ranges, which were fuelled by wood or coal. My parents and grandparents had one. I suppose the nearest thing to them is the Aga today – a good selling point if you are selling your house! Most people now use gas or electric stoves, even the microwave. As for storing food, when you think that only just over fifty years ago few people had a refrigerator, and thirty years ago no one had home freezers. Twenty years ago the microwave oven was a “new thing”. Most houses had a cupboard under the stairs. I remember ours was used as a larder. It had a cold slab in it where we left all the dairy products to keep them cool. When I look back I often wonder how on earth we managed – but we did.The way we grow food has changed tremendously. Nowadays farmers use tractors, not horses, to pull their ploughs. They cut crops and collect grain using a combine harvester, not the old binder and threshing machine and all the intensive labour they needed. I remember seeing farm labourers going up and down fields of vegetables, using the hand hoe. Nowadays, that’s all done by machine. Farming has changed as we have changed the machines we use in our homes and on the farms.Look at all the machines in our kitchen – washing, drying, dishwashers and the important one, the electric kettle? What, I wonder, would our grandparents have said about using a plastic kettle? Then there are all the other gadgets we use nowadays in the home, like the vacuum cleaner. I could go on.When you think that Clapham only had the mains services of gas, electric and water supplies connected in the early 1930s, look at the tremendous strides that have taken place since then. In the 1950s children would sit and play in the same room as their parents, listening to the radio. Look at today – television in most rooms, also computers. The children of today are on their own for hours in their bedrooms. Look at all the electronic machines there are; even the mobile phone will soon be out of date. We have come a long way from black and white television to digital and plasma screens.Looking back, are things really better, or does the materialistic world we live in just makes it easier for us? Some will say, “Bring back the good old days”, but today’s youth would say “No thank you!”

John Pickering

How smart is your driving?

Most car drivers could be travelling a lot further on a tank of fuel. No new car is required - just a change to smarter driving. Try these tips:         Shift up the gears earlier (between 2000 and 2500rpm). Cruising comfortably in 5th gear is the best place to be.

       Cut your top speed.  Wind resistance increases significantly with speed. The optimum speed for fuel efficiency is 45 – 50mph. 

         Avoid unnecessary braking by anticipating the traffic ahead. Fluid motion is better than stop start.         When slowing down, stay in gear and take your foot off the accelerator as early as possible. This reduces fuel consumption to near zero.

       Plan your route to avoid congestion or getting lost. Smarter driving could save you the equivalent of about one month’s worth of fuel each year. For more money saving tips, contact the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012.

Ursula Taylor Charity

Are you?Resident in Clapham.Aged between 11 and 25In full time educationAttending College or UniversityApprenticed to a Trade or OccupationNeed assistance with Books, Course Fees, Protective Clothing (not school uniforms)

If you fall into any or all of the above categories you may qualify for a grant from the Charity.

Application forms and information can be obtained from the Secretary to the Trustees, see below.All applications must be accompanied by receipts.

Mrs D.E. Kitchen Secretary to the TrusteesTel. 01234 214251 

Supporting parents to be and families of children under 5yrsDear Mums, Dads, Grandparents and CarersVery frustrating for all concerned, we know – but there are still some building issues which mean that we are not yet able to access the new children’s centre building. In the meantime we have extended our timetable to run more activities at the Parish Church Fellowship Centre and the Methodist Church Hall.

Monday Story Sacks6 week x 2 hour course in

partnership with Family Learning & Rise & Shine Group

June 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, & 6th

July

Walk & TalkPart of the Walk for Health

initiative – the walks are buggy friendly

Just turn up

9.00am – 11.00amStarts 1st June

(Church Drive off Green Lane)

1.30pm – 2.30pmStarts 1st June

(Leave 1.30pm prompt from outside Children’s Centre via

Church path)

Tuesdays Childminding Support Workshops

Contact Caroline MorrisTel. 07736563162

1.30pm – 3.00pm

MONTHLY1st Tuesday of each monthStarting September 2009

Wednesday Come and PlayA fun and friendly drop-in session

for parents and carers of under 5’s

Once Upon a TimeA fun, interactive story session for

children 18 months to 5 yrs (younger siblings welcome) and

their mums & dads, grandparents and carers.

10.00am – 11.30am Starts 3rd JuneFellowship Centre

( Church Drive off Green Lane)

Temporarily Term Time Only

1.45pm – 2.45pm Fellowship Centre

(Church Drive off Green Lane)Temporarily Term Time Only

Thursdays Tots Time and Health Visitor Drop-in

A chance to weigh your baby, make new friends; Support with

breastfeeding, baby play & activities.

June 11th, 25th, July 9th, 23rd, August 6th, 20th September 3rd, 17th

2.00pm – 3.00pmMethodist Church Hall –

opposite Post Office(Fortnightly)

Mon-Friday Information, advice & support – give us a call.

Telephone 01234 268459

Do come along; register with the centre and let us know your ideas and what activities/services you would like to see

developed in the centre.For more information ring Janice on 01234 268459; or email

ClaphamChildren’s Centre

janice.payne@christianfamilycare.org.uk Clapham Preschool

We are a very busy, friendly preschool based next to the park near the community centre in Clapham who would like to welcome all children between 2 ½ years and school age.

The preschool has been part of the community since 1971 and in 1994 we moved into a second hand prefabricated building thanks to the hard work and commitment of volunteers. Over this time, we have seen our numbers increase and have gone from providing limited sessions to opening from 08.30 – 16.00 Monday to Friday.

Our building is now at the end of its useful life and its size limits the amount of children we can take per session. This means that we have not been able to offer all children on our register a place at 2 ½ years.

We are pushing forward with our plans for a larger preschool building and are trying to obtain funding through grants. In order to support our applications, we need to demonstrate how many children will require a place with us. Therefore we would like to ask all parents in Clapham, who haven’t done so already, to either, register their children now (costs £15 including a preschool T shirt) by calling for a registration pack or fill in the form below to register your interest. To request a registration pack please call Sam on 01234 341142 or send her an email claphampreschool@btconnet.com

If anyone has any experience in obtaining grants or could help us towards the new building in anyway, we would be very pleased to hear from you. Please contact the preschool on 341142.

Parent / Carer’s name:.……………………………………………………………...Address:……………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………….Contact details:……………………………………………………………………….Child’s name:…………………………………Child’s date of birth:………………..Child’s name:…………………………………Child’s date of birth:……………….(if applicable)

When would you like your child(ren) to start? ……………………………………

(A child can start at 2 ½ yrs for a minimum of 2 sessions per week. These are 2 ½ hours long and currently cost £7.00. We also offer lunch clubs and extended hours. Children become eligible for 5 funded sessions in the term after their 3rd birthday.)

2 ½ y/n If so, how many sessions per week?…………3 y/n If so, how many sessions per week?………….Would you be interested in extended hours or lunch clubs?……………………..

…………………………………………………………………………………………..Please return this form to Clapham Preschool (Bedford), King George VI Playing Fields, Clapham, MK41 6BS