All the pieces have come together at an unveiling of a piece of community artwork at Houghton Regis library today (Monday 30 April).

A large-scale mosaic artwork by local schoolchildren which looks at the history of Houghton Regis was created nearly twelve years ago from funding from East England Arts through the Regional Arts Lottery Programme. The pieces of art have been brought back to life by Central Bedfordshire Council after initial plans to install them in Bedford Square and on the side of the town’s Co-operative store fell through.

Current pupils from Thornhill Lower, St Vincents, Hawthorn Park and Thomas Whitehead Lower schools, who together with Tithe Farm Lower, Houghton Regis Lower and Kings Houghton middle created the original artwork, attended the event. The artwork was unveiled by Chairman of Central Bedfordshire Council, Cllr Angela Barker and the Mayor of Houghton Regis, Cllr Andy Roberts.

Before the unveiling, the pupils took part in a mosaic art workshop led by two of the three original artists – Karen and Mark Wydler. Karen said: “We really enjoy nurturing new talent in people who have little or no experience of arts activity and this was no different. The mosaics look as vibrant as when they were made and it is lovely to see them installed in a place where the whole community comes together.”

Cllr Nigel Young, Executive Member for Sustainable Communities at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “We are delighted that these wonderful and highly original works of art can now be enjoyed by the whole community.”

Cllr. Peter Williams, Chairman of the Houghton Regis Town Centre Management Committee, said: "It is great that the Committee were able to help install this artwork within the Bedford Square Centre community facility which will enable the residents of Houghton Regis to view these beautiful mosaics which depict the changing face of the town in the eyes of the children."

Councillors from Houghton Regis Town Council also attended.

Dignitaries, visitors and volunteers came together to celebrate the opening of the new Family Trail at Rushmere Country Park near Heath and Reach on Saturday.

Cllr Angela Barker, Chair of Central Bedfordshire Council, along with Peter Smith, Chairman of the Greensand Trust officially opened the sculpture Trail and joined a group going round it for the first time.

The Trail was created by chainsaw sculptors Ian Freemantle and Peter Leadbeater and includes a giant spider and web, an oversized chair, doors to pixie houses and herons sat in their nests. The sculptures were created over the winter.

Cllr Angela Barker said: "It was great to join in with the celebrations to mark the opening of this fantastic family trail and even the weather didn't dampen our spirits!

“We are delighted to be able to partner with the Greensand Trust, which offers this beautiful local attraction in Central Bedfordshire. The chainsaw sculptures are absolutely wonderful.”

The event also included the presentation of prizes for the winners of the Story Writing competition organised by the Greensand Trust and supported by Central Bedfordshire Libraries, themed around Rushmere and the Trail. 

As part of the competition Leighton Buzzard Library hosted a story-writing workshop with acclaimed children’s author Julia Jarman.  Each category winner was presented with a certificate and a book token by Peter Smith and Jo Jacobs from Leighton Buzzard Library, and overall winner Jacqueline Hinton also received a wooden sculpture donated by Ian Freemantle. 

The category winners were Samuel Gruner (5-8), Lucy Cox (8-12), Skye Longworth (12-16) and Derek Hardman (16+).  The winning entries, plus a selection of the rest are currently on display at the Rushmere Visitor Centre.

The Trail is located close to the Visitor Centre, located off Linslade Road, and follows a circular route through woodland and around the meadow.  It is approximately 750m long and “contains something for everyone, young or old” said Trust Director of Development Jon Balaam.

Residents of the village of Heath and Reach were expressing relief today as Central Bedfordshire Council took direct action to clear land that had been prepared as a mobile home site.

The 1.26 hectare field off Mile Tree Road, was developed by the landowner last October. As no planning permission had been sought or granted, the Council immediately applied for a High Court injunction to prevent the site being occupied.

Cllr Mark Versallion, who represents Heath and Reach, explained what happened:

"One Sunday morning I was contacted by a couple of local residents who had seen building work going on in the field. I went around to the site and saw that hard standing had been laid as well as fencing. First thing Monday I contacted officers at the Council and that same day we secured a High Court Injunction and 24-7 security presence.

"We took swift action because we knew that removing unlawful developments can be both costly and time consuming."

Since October the landowner has applied for planning permission for the site to house six mobile homes. Because the land sits within the Greenbelt, the application was rejected and the applicant was instructed to remove the hard standing within a period of 14 days.

As there has been no work undertaken within that period, the Council has decided to take direct action and today work began to return the site to its original state, as a green field.

"We know how much people love the character of Central Bedfordshire, which is why good planning is essential. As a Council we won't accept unlawful development and, as the experience in our village shows, the Council will do whatever is necessary to prevent it. Central Bedfordshire Council is entitled to recover some of the costs to the Council, such as legal fees and the contract for remedial works," added Cllr Versallion.

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Leighton Buzzard took an exciting step towards green transport as MP Andrew Selous and Central Bedfordshire Council officially ‘plugged-in’ a new electric vehicle charging point in Leighton Buzzard today (Friday, 27 April). The charging point on the ground floor of West Street multi-storey car-park is the first in Central Bedfordshire to be included in the Source East Electric Vehicle Recharging Network.

The council has worked with Source East, managed by EValu8 Transport Innovations Ltd, to install the point and introduce electric vehicles as part of its commitment to enhance sustainable transport. The point can be used by the public and links a growing number of charging points across the East of England region.

Cllr Brian Spurr, Executive Member of Sustainable Communities at the council, said: “This first charging point is an exciting milestone in promoting the uptake of low emission vehicles as part of our plan to improve sustainable transport in Central Bedfordshire.”

Dr. Keith Bevis, Managing Director of EValu8 Transport Innovations said: “We are delighted to have been able to provide Central Bedfordshire Council with funding to support the installation of charging points as part of their drive to support sustainable transport. 

“The charging points unveiled today, together with others in Marston Vale and Dunstable, are an important addition to the growing network of charging facilities across the East of England.  We look forward to continuing to work with the council, and other organisations, to further promote low carbon transport.”

MP Andrew Selous said: “Electric vehicles will provide cheaper motoring, massive new job prospects and help slow down climate change.  I hugely welcome the arrival of electric vehicle charging points in Leighton Buzzard and Dunstable.  I hope that these charging points are the first of many electric vehicle charging points to be installed in Central Bedfordshire over the next few years.”

Organisations wanting to get involved in the scheme can access grants of up to seventy-five per cent off of the cost of the post and installation by working with EValu8.

The Source East network will grow to around 1200 points by March 2013. There are currently points in Norwich, Colchester, Chelmsford, and Hemel Hempstead, with live points to follow in Luton and Peterborough.

A new draft strategy to improve the lives of people with Autism and Aspergers Syndrome and their families, has been launched by Central Bedfordshire Council and NHS Bedfordshire.

Fulfilling and Rewarding Lives in Central Bedfordshire, has been developed by the Bedfordshire Autism Partnership Group, a steering group made of people with Autism, family carers, and representatives from the Central Bedfordshire Council, NHS Bedfordshire and South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (SEPT).

The draft strategy sets out the priorities for supporting people living with Autism in Bedfordshire, which include: increasing understanding and awareness of Autism both amongst frontline staff and across the wider community; developing local services to meet the needs of people with autism and helping people with Autism find employment.

Cllr Carole Hegley, Executive Member for Social Care, Health and Housing, said:

“It is great that people with Autism, their families and carers have played a key role in developing the new strategy. If it is going to be successful we need to know what matters to them, so that we can begin to work together to improve their lives.

Central Bedfordshire Council are now asking for comments on the draft strategy so we can make sure we include all the things which are important to people with Autism who live in Central Bedfordshire. We would like to hear from as many people as possible.”

The draft strategy is available to view online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations, and you can have your say by completing an online form by 10 August 2012.
 
For more information about this consultation, please contact Linda Ireland on 0300 3006475 or email Linda.ireland@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.

  
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Adult beauty and complimentary therapy courses have been enhanced by an investment of £7,000 to upgrade the training facility at Stratton Upper School.

The beauty and complementary therapy courses offer people the opportunity to gain practical skills and nationally recognised qualifications, with some of the mature students going on to set up their own businesses locally.

In the last two years there has been a 26% increase in people employed in hairdressing, beauty treatment and other personal service activities in Central Bedfordshire.

This is set to increase further with the growth of the local leisure industry, in particular the opening of Center Parcs which is committed to recruiting staff from the local area to work across the site, including in its luxury spa.

The qualified tutors on the course currently work in the beauty industry in Biggleswade. They are able to share their experiences and expertise with learners, who meet in small groups.

Student Michelle said: “The refurbishment of the room is great. The course is perfect for me, because it works with school hours. I can fit everything in and get a qualification.”

Louise, another student on the Beauty Therapy NVQ Level 2 course. added: “The course is really good. Afterwards I’m hoping to get some salon experience and at some point, set up on my own. So far we’ve learnt manicures and pedicures and facials are next.”

Cllr Brian Spurr, Executive Member, Sustainable Communities Services at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “We are delighted that this new space better enables adult learners to develop their skills, gain qualifications and hopefully go on to set up their own business.”

The adult learning centre refurbishment will also benefit other groups who use the space including the local Job Centre and Work Club.

If you would like to know more about the courses on offer, including Aromatherapy, Manicure Skills and Beauty Level 2, please visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk or call 0300 300 8183 for more details.

Houghton Regis Leisure Centre is back open for business after a £100,000 refurbishment programme by Central Bedfordshire Council.

The improved and revamped centre includes a new 60-station fitness room with cardiovascular, strength and resistance equipment and a free weights area.

In addition to the new gym, the centre boasts a spinning and workout studio with a range of classes on offer. Members can join and book activities online at www.lifestyles-houghton.co.uk.

Stevenage Leisure Limited has taken over the running of the centre on behalf of Central Bedfordshire Council, after a selection process which involved local residents. The council has successfully worked in partnership with Houghton Regis Town Council and the centre's Action Group to keep the centre open and the investment is part of the council’s commitment to keep the centre open to the end of March 2013.

Cllr Brian Spurr, Executive Member for Sustainable Communities, Services said "This leisure centre now has much better facilities which we hope will be enjoyed by everyone.  The local community has played a big part in helping us to reach this point and find a positive alternative to closure. We are sure that the new operators Stevenage Leisure Limited will do a great job of running the centre.”

Ian Morton, Managing Director of Stevenage Leisure Ltd, added: “We’re delighted to have taken over the running of Houghton Regis Leisure Centre

“The centre is now a completely revamped facility for the whole community, with members being able to enjoy unlimited use from just £17.99 a month. There is so much on offer and we can’t wait to welcome the local residents here.”

Others attending the launch included: Stevenage Leisure Ltd’s Chairman, Roger Gochin and Managing Director Ian Morton, Cllr Angela Barker, Chairman of Central Bedfordshire Council and the Chairperson of the Houghton Regis Action Group Tracey McMahon.

Formal consultation on proposals to develop a new lower school site, on Leighton Buzzard’s Sandhills Development, off Kestrel Way, began on Monday (23rd April). The decision to commence consultation on the proposal to expand Greenleas Lower School as the preferred provider for the new site, was announced at a meeting of Central Bedfordshire Council’s Executive last month and followed careful consideration of three bids submitted by local schools.

Speaking ahead of the launch of the consultation, Executive Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Mark Versallion, said:

“There is a real need to increase the number of school places in Leighton Buzzard, to meet the needs of the growing local population and our responsibility as a Council to ensure there are sufficient school places for our children.”

The consultation will run until Monday 21 May and there will be meetings with staff and unions and two public meetings to give parents, carers and other interested parties the opportunity to have their say on the proposals.

The public meetings will take place at Greenleas Lower School on Tuesday 8 May and at Leighton Middle School on Wednesday 16 May - both are due to start at 7.00pm.

Consultation documents will be available for the public to view and use to submit feedback on the council’s website www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations, and at Leighton Buzzard Library, as well as Leighton Linslade Town Council and the Community House on Plover Road .

Following the consultation period the council will publish statutory notices for the two schools. 

The Council’s Executive will carefully consider the responses to the consultation and will make its final decision on whether the proposals will be approved at its meeting in August. The proposed changes would be fully implemented from September 2013.

 
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Formal consultation on proposals to expand Fairfield Park Lower and Shefford Lower Schools began on Monday (23rd April). The decision to commence consultation on the proposals to permanently extend both schools to provide 150 extra places, was announced at a meeting of Central Bedfordshire Council's Executive last month. This will mean a total of 450 places at Shefford Lower School and 300 places at Fairfield Park Lower School. The Head Teachers and Governors of both schools are fully supportive of the proposals.

Speaking ahead of the launch of the formal consultation, Executive Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Mark Versallion, said:

"There is a real need to increase the number of places at both these schools, to meet the needs of the growing local population and our responsibility as a Council to ensure there are sufficient places for our children."

"The Council has worked closely with both schools on the plans, and there is a strong desire by all involved to extend the schools to allow them to build on their success in supporting local children to reach their potential."

The consultation runs until Monday 21 May and there will be meetings with staff and unions and a public meeting at each school to give parents, carers and other interested parties the opportunity to have their say on the proposals.

The public meetings will take place at the on Monday 30th April at Shefford Lower School and Wednesday 2nd May at Fairfield Park Lower School.

Consultation documents will be available for the public to view and give us feedback on the council’s website, and at Stotfold and Shefford Libraries, as well as the local town councils.

Following the consultation period the council will publish statutory notices for the two schools.

The Council’s Executive will carefully consider the responses to the consultation and will make its final decision on whether the proposals will be approved at its meeting in August. The proposed changes would be fully implemented from September 2013.

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Changes to Central Bedfordshire's Executive were announced by Leader, Cllr James Jamieson, at last night's (19 April) annual Council meeting.

Cllr Nigel Young is the new lead member for Sustainable Communities - Strategic Planning and Economic Development, replacing Cllr Ken Matthews who becomes Deputy Chairman of the Council's Development Management Committee.

There were also changes to the positions of Deputy Executive Members. In Children's Services Cllr Angela Barker vacated the position of Deputy to become Chairman of the Council and Cllr Tony Brown moved portfolios to become Deputy to Cllr Nigel Young. The two new Deputy Executive Members for Children's Services are Cllrs Amanda Dodwell and Sue Clark.

Commenting on his changes, Cllr James Jamieson says: "I would like to thank Ken for the knowledge, skill and commitment he has brought to the Executive and I am pleased that the Development Management Committee will now benefit from his considerable experience. Nigel, who has been a very able Deputy, will be a great asset to the top political team. I am thrilled for Angela who as a great people person will serve the council well as Chairman and welcome our new Deputy Executive Members.

"I am looking forward to working with my reshaped Executive team to address the challenging agenda we have set ourselves."

Changes have also been announced within the Liberal Democrat Group at the Council which will now be led by Cllr Nigel Aldis in place of Cllr David Jones.

Details of other agreed changes to the membership of council committees and representation on outside bodies can be found on the council website.

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Cllr Mrs Angela Barker is the new Chairman of Central Bedfordshire Council, having been elected at the Council’s Annual General Meeting, which took place yesterday (Thursday 19th April). Cllr Caroline Maudlin was elected as Vice Chairman.

Cllr Barker takes over the position from Cllr Peter Hollick, who has held the position with great distinction over the past two years, supported by his Vice Chairman, Cllr Ruth Gammons.  Cllr Hollick was thanked for raising around £10,000 during his time as Chairman, which is available through the Chairman's Grant Fund, to help individuals and small community groups across the area.

Cllr Barker will act as an ambassador for the Council, representing the authority on civic visits, at ceremonial events, as well as raising funds and awareness for her chosen charity, the East Anglian Air Ambulance Charity.

Speaking after her appointment to the post, Councillor Barker said:

 “I am absolutely thrilled to become the first female Chairman of Central Bedfordshire Council. It is a special honour to represent the Council and the people of Central Bedfordshire in this unique year, with two once in a lifetime events taking place - the Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics.

 "In the year ahead my ambition is to go out and meet as many of the residents and visit lots of the organisations and businesses, who together, make Central Bedfordshire such a great place to live and work in. 

I love being a Councillor, and being able to represent local people makes me truly proud. I hope to use my new position to share my passion for local politics and to make sure that every resident in Central Bedfordshire knows that we do listen, and that finding out what matters to you makes all the difference.”

Cllr Barker has been a Ward Councillor for Haynes and Houghton Conquest and surrounding villages since 2007, serving two years on the former Mid Bedfordshire Council, before becoming a Central Bedfordshire Councillor in 2009. She was elected unopposed in 2011, since then, she has worked tirelessly as Deputy Executive Member for Children’s Services.

Having grown up in Cheshire, she moved to Bedfordshire over 25 years ago. She is happily married to a Bedfordshire man, and a proud mum to three wonderful children.

Commenting on her role, Cllr Maudlin, who represents Sandy and who has been a councillor for three years said:

“It is a wonderful to be elected as Vice Chairman of Central Bedfordshire Council and I am looking forward to working with Cllr Barker and supporting her in her role as Chairman. It will great to work together during what promises to be a remarkable year.”

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Councillor Mark Versallion, Executive Member for Children’s Services at Central Bedfordshire Council, has given the go ahead for four lower schools in Houghton Regis to extend their age range to cater for pupils aged 3 to 11. The schools are Hawthorn Park Lower School, Thomas Whitehead CofE VA Lower School, Thornhill Lower School and Tithe Farm Lower School.

The decision comes at the end of a period of significant consultation and is fully supported by the Head teachers and Governors at all four schools. The proposals and consultation process followed a series of strict guidelines set out by the Department for Education (DfE). The changes will mean there will be:

· 420 places for pupils aged 5-11 in the main school at Hawthorn Park, including provision for 79 part time nursery places

· 308 places for pupils aged 5-11 in the main school at Thomas Whitehead, including provision for 44 part time nursery places

· 210 places for pupils aged 5-11 in the main school at Thornhill Lower School, including 60 part time nursery places

· 420 places for pupils aged 5-11 in the main school at Tithe Farm Lower School, including 78 part time nursery places

Executive Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Mark Versallion, said:

"This is a decision which is right for Houghton Regis. It reflects the commitment of the schools, teachers and parents to raise standards for children and young people in the area. There is a strong belief within all four schools that removing the disruption of a school transfer in year four will be particularly beneficial.

There was significant parental support and demand for the proposed change in age range at each of the four schools.

This is an important decision, that is likely to prompt other schools to look at their provision and could lead to a wider reshaping of the education system within Central Bedfordshire.

Some Academies in the area have already applied to the DfE to extend their age ranges and the outcome of these applications will provide some certainty about the future of provision within the area."

The changes will be implemented from September 2013.

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Poetry, sketches and family history workshops will all be part of Leighton Buzzard library’s celebration of World Book Night 2012 on Monday, 23 April.

World Book Night is a nationwide celebration of reading, recommending and giving books which will see tens of thousands of volunteers share their love of reading.

Leighton Buzzard Library is joining in the fun by giving out free books from the list of 25 specially chosen and printed World Book Night editions. There will also be poetry readings, a short sketch by Totternhoe Players, quizzes, sessions on family history and refreshments. The library will stay open until 8pm for the special event.

Cllr Brian Spurr, Executive Member for Sustainable Communities – Services at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: "Our libraries are at the very heart of our reading communities and it is fantastic that Leighton Buzzard library is able to support World Book Night in this way.

"It promises to be a packed event, but if you can’t make it along we would encourage you to pass on or recommend a book to inspire less frequent readers or those who are part of communities with less access to books, bookshops and libraries."

Jo Jacobs, Senior Librarian, Young People, Families and Learning Team in Libraries, said: "We have lots planned to celebrate. Totternhoe Players will be presenting a short sketch called ‘The Bus Ride’, there will be poetry readings and quizzes and our session on family history is designed to show that there are more ways to find out about your ancestry than just well-known websites."

Leighton Buzzard library's participation in World Book Night is organised by The Reading Agency, the reader development agency for libraries’ work with readers.

Now in its second year, World Book Night 2012 will take place on the 23 April, UNESCO’s International Day of the Book and Shakespeare’s birthday. To find out more about World Book Night, please visit World Book Night website.

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Central Bedfordshire Council will be supporting the 16th annual Real Nappy Week from the 16 - 22 April. The Waste Minimisation Team at Central Bedfordshire Council is encouraging parents across Central Bedfordshire to ditch disposables and choose more environmentally-friendly and cost effective washable, ‘real’ nappies.

New mums and dads can expect to change up to 5,000 nappies by the time their baby is potty trained; if wearing disposables that equates to approximately one tonne of nappies sent to landfill every year per baby. Choosing to use real nappies on their children could reduce their household waste by up to 50 per cent.

Using real nappies instead of disposables from birth to potty could save new parents up to £500 on their first baby. Reusing the real nappies on a second baby could save even more money!

Cllr Budge Wells, Deputy Executive Member for Sustainable Communities at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “Real nappies benefit the environment as disposable nappies can take up to 500 years to rot away in landfill, and the financial savings made also benefit parents.”

Central Bedfordshire Council run a cash-back scheme to help parents get started with reusable nappies. Any Central Bedfordshire parent who spends £50 or more on reusable nappies or accessories, or subscribes to a nappy laundry scheme, can claim £25 back.

The Waste Minimisation Team now offer home visits to give expectant and new parents an unbiased introduction, information and advice as well as pointing them in the direction of a real nappy advisor if required. It also offers an opportunity to look at the variety of fabrics, shapes, patterns and colours available. Real nappies are extremely soft and well–designed, and many can be washed at 40°C.

For more information about washable nappies and the cash back scheme, visit the council's waste minimisation pages.

Alternatively to arrange a home visit from the Waste Minimisation Team please email hannah.willis@centralbedfordshire.co.uk

Central Bedfordshire Council and Sandy Town Council have joined forces to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Greensand Ridge Walk and to launch 6 new Sandy Jubilee Walks.

Everyone is invited to the Sandy Town Centre car park on Sunday 22 April for a guided circular walk to celebrate these occasions. The event will begin with the official launch at 9.45am and the walks will take place throughout the morning. The first walk will depart at 10am and then every 15 minutes until 11.15am, booking is necessary.

The guided circular walk is approx 6 miles long and takes about 3 hours. The walks will include talks from the RSPB at Sandy Lodge and Sandy Tourist Information on the history of the town.

The Greensand Ridge Walk is Bedfordshire’s premier long distance walk passing through Buckinghamshire and Cambridgeshire. The walk was opened in 1986 and from its beginning has proved to be a popular route for both locals and visitors to Bedfordshire.

The route follows a ridge of greensand which rises from the clay vales on either side and is an ideal introduction to the history, landscape and wildlife of this part of the country. The 40 mile / 64 km walk starts in Leighton Buzzard and finishes in Gamlingay.

The Sandy Jubilee leaflet comprises five walks and one cycle ride around the town and surrounding area with something for every age and ability.

• Lowfield Walk – approx 1 hour 30 minutes – this walk takes you from the town into the countryside with a varied landscape of arable field, woods, parklands and low greensand hills.
• Squires Walk – approx 2 hours – so named because much of the route passes through the estate of the Pym family, who as Squires of Sandy have lived on their Hazells Hall estate since 1761.
• Sandy Pushchair Walk – approx 30 – 45 minutes – suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs the route is flat and follows tarmac paths and pavements through the town and alongside water meadows, woodlands and the river.
• Sandy Town Walk – approx 1 hour – This route passes a number of interesting buildings in the town and includes a varied landscape of water meadows, woods and hills.
• River and Lakes Walk – Sandy – Beeston – Blunham – approx 2 hours 30 minutes. This lovely walk takes you around Sandy, Beeston and Blunham along the banks of the River Ivel and past the water meadows and man made lakes.
• Sandy – Everton Cycle Ride – a lovely cycle ride in the countryside around Sandy and Everton.

Cllr Brain Spurr, Executive Member for Sustainable Communities – Services said:

"This area is full of history and wonderful landscapes. The Greensand Ridge Walk gives a wide flavour of the beauty of Central Bedfordshire whilst Sandy’s new Jubilee Walks give people the opportunity to get outdoors and get healthy whilst exploring and discovering this delightful area."

The Mayor of Sandy, Cllr Susan Sutton said:

"Our local landscape provides continuity and permanence in our lives whilst also reflecting changes in the way we live, much like the Queen’s reign. The Jubilee walks are a wonderful way to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee.

Car parking is available throughout the town centre and in the town centre car park.

If you would like to book on a guided walk at the launch event call the Sandy Tourist Information Centre on 01767 682 728.

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Central Bedfordshire Council are supporting a jobs and skills fair being held by Job Centre Plus in Biggleswade Library on Thursday April 19th from 10am to 3pm.

A number of local employers will also be taking part on the day including, Liebherr, Geason, Enterprise Health and Social Care Central Bedfordshire Council, Sage and FosterPlus. Providers will also be on hand to answer any questions and give advice and information around learning, training and starting a business - Develop EBP, Seetec, Kennedy Scott, Bedfordshire Learning Partnership, Wenta, The Prince's Trust and Evolve your Future. Presentations will also be held on writing a CV and interview skills, apprenticeships, online applications, and business start up and enterprise.

Cllr James Jamieson leader of Central Bedfordshire Council said: "This is another good example of how we are working in partnership with other local agencies and businesses to help our residents to find out about training, volunteering and looking for a job that is right for them."

The event is free and there is no need to book, just turn up on the day. If you would like any further information please call Biggleswade Job Centre Plus on 01767 275722.

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Organisers of the Olympics are on the lookout for Central Bedfordshire residents, with a passion for the Games, partying and bringing local people together.

The London 2012 'Local Leader' campaign is designed to give people across the UK a role in the Games and to help those people who don't know quite how to be part of London 2012, by suggesting a number of different ways to celebrate.

Being a Local Leader is simple, and there are lots of tools and resources available to help. There are no limits to the sort of celebration Local Leaders might want to plan, but here are a few ideas to consider:

‘Garden for the Games’ provides Local Leaders with hints and tips from gardening experts, including Blue Peter Gardener Chris Collins and Olympic Park Gardener Des Smith, on how to plant seeds now that will turn window boxes down your street red, white and blue, or to ‘grow gold’ by planting marigolds to flourish the route of the Olympic Torch route.

The Olympic Torch flame will be in Dunstable on the morning of Monday 9th July, Local Leaders are provided with ideas and tools to help bring the community together to welcome the flame and celebrate their local heroes by lining the streets and showing what makes their community special.

On 27 July the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games will be watched by over a billion people around the world, and Local Leaders will be given invite cards, recipe tips, party sheets and more to help them turn their screening of the event into an Olympic themed venue, whether it is in a village hall, pub or living room.

The 4 August is Super Saturday - the day when the most medals are awarded during the Olympic Games. Local Leaders will access recipe ideas to help host barbeques and a day of activity in their homes, gardens and community centres.

For the Paralympic Torch Relay, Local Leaders can help celebrate the national flame lightings in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales by lighting up every corner of the UK with a lantern. Local Leaders will be able to access hints and tips on how to take part in a lantern procession and decorate lanterns with good luck messages for their local Paralympic athlete.

Finally, for the last day of the Paralympic Games on 9 September Local Leaders will be provided with ideas to bring together friends, family and neighbours for a Sunday get-together to see out an unforgettable summer in style.

Leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, Cllr James Jamieson, said:

"What better way of celebrating this once in a lifetime summer, than by becoming a Local Leader and celebrating the Olympic Games with your family, friends and neighbours.

I am really looking forward to hearing about what our residents are planning. I am certain there will be some fantastic events taking place across Central Bedfordshire."

Seb Coe, LOCOG Chair, said:

"Local Leaders are brilliant organisers in every community around the country and play an active role in celebrating national events at a local level. Through this programme Local Leaders will help provide opportunities for everyone around the UK to join in with the London 2012 Games.’

By signing up on the London 2012 website Local Leaders will get access to London 2012 branding, posters and toolkits. Whether the Local Leader invites three friends or their whole community, London 2012 will provide them with the tools to make their celebration one to remember and create opportunities for people across the UK to join in. They will also be able to put their celebration events on the London 2012 Join In listings website, giving local community celebrations exposure on what will be one of the most visited websites in the world this year.

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A new draft strategy to improve the lives of Adults with Learning Disabilities and their families, has been launched by Central Bedfordshire Council and NHS Bedfordshire.

The Draft Joint Commissioning Strategy for Adults with Learning Disabilities in Central Bedfordshire, has been developed in partnership with the Central Bedfordshire Learning Disabilities Delivery Partnership, which includes people with learning disabilities and representatives from a wide range local voluntary and statutory organisations.

The draft Strategy sets out the plan for learning disability services for the next four years for services such as housing, health, employment, learning and support to be involved in the local community.

Cllr Carole Hegley, Executive Member for Social Care, Health and Housing, said:

"It has been great to see Members of the Central Bedfordshire Learning Disabilities Delivery Partnership, including people with learning disabilities, their family carers and people who support them, working together to say what they think should be in the plan.

Central Bedfordshire Council are now asking for comments on the plan so we can make sure we include all the things which are important to people with learning disabilities who live in Central Bedfordshire. We would like to hear from as many people as possible."

There are two main ways that people can have their say on the draft Strategy:

1. By reading the draft Strategy and then completing the online questionnaire on the consultation page of the Council's website by 30 June 2012.

An easy read version is available on the website.

2. By attending a ‘Making it Real’ workshop, arranged by Right Track, a community interest company run by people with learning disabilities. At the workshops people will have the chance to talk about the things that are important to them and what they think about the plan. The dates for these workshops are as follows:

• 12th April Biggleswade Adult Centre
• 17th April Leighton Buzzard British Legion Club 18th April Silsoe Horticultural Centre Late April Houghton Regis Sandringham Hub
• Each workshop will take place between 10.30am - 2pm.

Anyone interested in attending, should contact Right Track on 07999 859980, email: righttrack@hotmail.co.uk

ENDS

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 the GOV.UK website. 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 the Health and Safety Executive.

ENDS

Central Bedfordshire Council councillors have shown their support for plans to set up an innovative Alternative Provision ‘free school’ in Central Bedfordshire.

The new facility would offer locally based high quality education for up to 140 pupils, and be dedicated to providing a positive educational experience and improved outcomes to pupils who might otherwise be excluded from school and/or who need extra personalised support to help them to succeed.

The plans, which have been submitted to the Department for Education, were developed by a consortium of all 10 Upper Schools in Central Bedfordshire, and Oak Bank School for pupils with Behavioural, Emotional and Social Difficulties (BESD), supported by representatives from Middle Schools and the Council.

The Council has given its strong backing to the bid, by providing funding and two existing Council owned buildings to house the new school. The proposed school will be located at the existing Kingsland site in Dunstable, and the former Roecroft Lower School site in Stotfold.

Speaking about the proposals, Cllr Mark Versallion, Executive Member for Children’s Services, said:

"I am hopeful that the bid will be successful. We feel it is a very strong proposal, which is supportive of current Government policy.

We have shown our strong support for the bid by providing the funding for the current Pupil Referral unit and two sites to accommodate the new school.

It is a demonstration of our commitment as a Council and that of both Upper and Middle schools to raise standards and ensure the very best educational opportunities for some of the most vulnerable pupils in Central Bedfordshire."

Nigel Croft, Head of Redborne Upper School and Chair of the Upper School Heads’ Bid, said:

"Our bid puts Central Bedfordshire Council and its 10 Upper Schools at the forefront of Government thinking.

The new facility will provide for our presently permanently excluded pupils and give them the appropriate pathways and curriculum to succeed in either employment or further training."

ENDS