Leighton Town need their fans to cheer them as they take on Leiston in the FA Trophy First Qualifying Round replay at Bell Close tonight (Tuesday).

Craig Bicknell’s men let slip a 2-0 lead against Leiston on Saturday as the home side forced the replay.

Goals from Phil Draycott and Tyrone Taylor had put Town 2-0 before the break, but Leiston fought back to snatch a draw late on.

And with a place in the next round at stake, vice-chairman Iain McGregor wants as many fans as possible at Bell Close to cheer on the Reds.

“Attendances haven’t been great this season,” he admitted, “but we’ll need all the help we can get to cheer the lads on, and hopefully into the next round.”

It took just 40 seconds for Draycott to fire Town into the lead.

Draycott, on hot form of late, caught Leiston keeper Danny Gay napping as his fierce shot sailed into the net, giving Leighton an early lead.

Town thought they’d doubled their lead after 15 minutes when Mark Bunker rolled the ball into the net, only to find play had been pulled back for an offside flag.

They weren’t to be denied for much longer though as Tyrone Taylor headed in Leighton’s second.

The visitors looked in total control, but hearts were in their mouths when, two minutes before the interval, Dan Green and Chris Green allowed Tom Winter in around the back, but his lob went just over the bar.

Town could have made sure of the result barely three minutes into the second half when they had a free kick cleared off the line, while Bunker’s curling effort went just wide of the upright.

Leiston were given a lifeline in the 63rd minute when Green couldn’t hold on to Conor Hubble’s free kick, parrying it as far as Scott Mitchell who fired home.

And their comeback was completed with 12 minutes to go when Gareth Heath got the all-important equaliser, forcing the tie into a replay back at Bell Close.

Leighton did have a chance late on to snatch back the lead, but Gay was a match for Draycott’s strike.

Tuesday night’s replay at Bell Close will kick off at 7.45pm. Tickets available on the door.

Three people have been taken to hospital after a crash on a country road this morning.

It happened just after 6.30am on Mentmore Road between Mentmore and Cheddington, near to the Mentmore Golf and Country Club and involved a yellow Nissan Kubistar van and a silver Suzuki Swift car.

A 45-year-old man, a passenger in the Suzuki Swift was airlifted to Addenbrooke’s hospital in Cambridge where he is in a critical condition.

A 38-year-old man, the driver of the Nissan Kubistar was airlifted to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford with serious injuries and he is currently in a stable condition.

The driver of the Suzuki Swift, a 22-year-old man was taken by land ambulance to Stoke Mandeville Hospital with serious injuries.

Two other men who were passengers in the Nissan were treated at the scene.

Police, fire and the ambulance service all attended the scene, and the road was shut for much of the day to allow accident investigation work to take place.

Police have started an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision and are now appealing for witnesses.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Hello there, I’m Nightcrawler, Lou (Jake Gyllenhaal). No, not the blue-skinned teleporting X-man, but a freelance crime journalist.

I’m the guy who gets to crime scenes and films as soon as possible after getting tipped off by my police scanner. If I can tape the gory details with my camcorder there’s a good chance I can sell them on to a TV news station.

Yes, my methods are frowned upon by many people. I mean if you’re dying from a car crash or mugging attack, I’m sure the last thing you’ll want to see is me standing over you filming your final moments, but everyone loves inside scoops on crimes and accidents don’t they?

At the moment I’m in a bit of a pickle. I hit the mother lode when I got to a home invasion-murder scene before the police. I even managed to capture footage of killers leaving the scene. So my life could be in danger, but then again, I possibly might just be a hero here and bag the best ever ‘live crime footage’ into the bargain.

Nightcrawler is the stunning debut film by director Dan Gilroy and he has created an impressive pulse-pounding terror ride that feels like a cross between American Psycho, Drive and Broadcast News. Gyllenhaal is just incredible in the lead role, a walking overdose of unhinged energy, manic determination and charismatic vigour.

Watching Lou get ever closer to the very crimes he is recording is truly unnerving and when the line between observer and participant begins to be crossed, all bets are off.

The rest of the cast that include Bill Paxton as a rival crime journalist, Riz Ahmed as Lou’s long-suffering employee and Rene Russo as the TV broadcaster who buys Lou’s footage are on top form.

Nothing can adequately prepare you for the dark heart that throbs throughout this film. Not for the faint of heart, there are disturbing scenes and violence and adult themes throughout, but if looking for a powerful thriller that will blow you away, there isn’t anything else out there like this.

I can honestly say that the climactic 20 minutes of Nightcrawler are potentially the tensest I’ve experienced.

A Leighton firefighter was among a number of officers honoured at Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s special awards evening to honour the commitment, professionalism and bravery of its staff, and the public.

Councillor Colleen Atkins, chairman of the Fire and Rescue Authority, presented a 25 year long service award to Watch Commander Jason Hollamby from theLake Street station at the ceremony, which took place at Bedford School,

Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller said: “Events such as this serve as a great opportunity to justifiably celebrate the successes of our staff.

“It is great to be able to honour their personal achievement, fundraising activities, or long and distinguished service to the local community. It also gives us a chance to thank their families, whose own contribution is invaluable.”

A dominant second half performance saw Leighton Buzzard cruise to a 35-5 victory over lowly Devizes.

The visitors ran in 28 second half points after a closely fought opening period to remain sixth in the South West 1 East table.

Donning their yellow jersies for the first time this season, Buzzards kicked off with into the wind, and up a slight slope.

However, it was the home side who started the stronger, and with the advantage of the elements, found themselves camped in Buzzards territory.

Putting pressure on their visitors they caused Leighton to give away a series of penalties, the referee being particularly strict at offences around the ruck.

Fortunately for the visitors, the Saddlebacks fly half Rory Brown was unable to take advantage.

It then came Devizes’ turn to incur the referee’s displeasure. Unfortunately visiting fly half Dan David fared no better than his counterpart in the ‘kicking stakes’.

Two more penalty kick chances for the home side also went begging.

After only 18 minutes Leighton were dealt a real blow with Number Eight Tom Byard having to leave the field with a serious leg injury.

On 29 minutes, slightly against the run of play, Leighton broke through the Devizes defence enabling centre Jack Whitehouse to score under the posts, David converting.

Unfortunately for the visitors, they had little time to enjoy their advantage as only three minutes later an attempted clearance kick from David was charged down, and Luke Stanbridge was beaten in the race to touch down.

The only moment of note as half time neared was a yellow card for Buzzards’ full back Geoff Branwhite for foul play. Half-time arrived with Leighton 7-5 in the lead.

The second half was to be a different state of affairs. From the whistle Leighton took the advantage, causing the home side to defend for all they were worth.

However, in the 47th minute number eight (in the absence of Byard) Zak Tift finished off a lightning Buzzard attack. David kicked the conversion from wide out to extend the visitor’s lead.

Leighton were now in command with tight head prop Ashley Walsh leading from the front, ably supported by his colleagues in the pack.

In the 51st minute the visitors went further ahead when winger Aaron Perry finished off some superb handling by scoring in the corner. David again added the extras.

All the play was now in home side territory and it was no surprise when in the sixty first minute Whitehouse scored his second, and his side’s bonus point securing try. David added the extras to make the score 5–28.

With 10 minutes remaining, replacement Dan Baroux completed the scoring, with David kicking the conversion, the final score was 35-5 to Leighton.

This was a good performance by Buzzards, away from home and after a long journey.

The result means they stay in sixth place in South West 1 East, still in touch with Swindon in fifth, five points in front.

They now have a week of before taking on Grove RFC on November 15.

Central Bedfordshire’s Travel Choices team will be in Leighton Buzzard this November with offers and advice to help residents get active, travel sustainably and save money.

After sending out an introductory postcard to residents, the team of Travel Advisors – all wearing Travel Choices uniform and carrying ID – will be knocking on doors.

They will talk to residents about their travel choices and ‘challenging’ individuals to leave the car behind and increase the amount of ‘active’ travel in their lives, for instance by cycling, walking or using public transport.

The team will also have advice on Arriva’s new express F70 bus route, connecting Leighton Buzzard with Milton Keynes, Dunstable and Luton (via the Luton Dunstable Busway). For residents new to the bus service and taking a travel challenge, a taster ticket offer will be available.

The team will also attending events such as the Leighton Buzzard Christmas Market

Councillor Nigel Youngsaid: “The Travel Choices team have a wealth of experience in helping people travel more actively and cost-effectively. The forthcoming activity in Leighton Buzzard is a great opportunity for residents to discover more about the range of travel options available to them.”

For more information on the advisor team and the Travel Choices project, visit www.cbtravelchoices.co.uk or follow news on www.facebook.com/travelchoices

A family in Leighton were stunned when police caught a wanted man hiding in their fishpond.

Colin Usher and his wife were sitting down to dinner on the evening of Tuesday October 28 when they found themselves caught up in the bizarre police stake out.

Mr Usher, of Billington Road, said: “We heard a lot of noise and commotion out the back and then a very loud hammering on the front door.

“When I answered it, I was taken aback to be confronted by a policewoman. She said, ‘a man’s jumped over the wall into your back garden.’

“I led them through the house into the back, it was very cold and dark and you couldn’t really see anything.”

Mr Usher helped police in their search by providing a torch after their own stopped working.

Several minutes went by with no trace of the missing man anywhere in the garden.

In spite of the unusual situation, Mr Usher said he wasn’t unduly concerned, being reassured by the police presence.

He said: “Nothing was happening and then, all of a sudden, the policewoman shouted, ‘he’s in the pond!’”

“The torchlight went straight to the pond and within seconds, a policeman shot on to the decking, whipped him out and he was standing dripping from head to foot.”

Police led the man away through the family’s driveway, leaving the Ushers puzzled about the strange scenario.

Mr Usher said: “It’s very bizarre. He probably thought the pond went some way under the decking, because I designed it to look that way.

“It’s only afterwards, you wonder about what he’d done and why police were there.”

> A man had been charged on two counts of assault by beating.

Renhold United are now back onto the top of the Premier Division supported by Sportsform after they retained their perfect away record by winning 5-1 at Caldecote on Saturday.

It was the hosts who grabbed the lead when Matt Basta netted with the last kick of the opening half before United took over and dominated the second period. Mark Reed netted three times alongside single strikes from Jason Allison and Alex Woolston to bring up the nap hand.

Losing out on that top spot are Shefford Town & Campton whose seven game winning run and 100% home record was ended when they were held to a 2-2 draw by Marston Shelton Rovers. Andrew Hayday and Michael Jones were on the home scoresheet against Rovers replies via Jamie Cerminara and Alan Henman.

Still in third are AFC Oakley M&DH who ran out 5-2 winners at Wootton Blue Cross, Rob Heaney and Ali Smith both netting twice and Mark Smith once against home replies via Phil Matthews and Martin Powell.

Whilst fifth place Flitwick Town ran out 4-0 home winners over Eastcotts AFC to end the visitors four game unbeaten ways, Daniel Stafford netting twice alongside Richie Bevan and Alex Robinson-Walsh to do the damage.

Sharnbrook now find themselves up into sixth place after winning 2-0 at AFC Turvey who remain in search of their first home win of the season and now without a victory in their last nine outings. Leon Taylor and Richard Bull netted the visitors’ goals.

However, for Ickwell & Old Warden it was their first home win of the season when two goals from Cortney Batchelor and a strike from Conor Green took them to a 3-1 win over bottom of the table Lidlington United Sports for whom Jacob Ottley replied.

Sandy remain unbeaten in their last three starts away from Bedford Road following their 2-0 win at second from bottom of the table Pavenham, Liam Brophy netting both goals.

Bedfordshire FA Intermediate Cup Second Round.

The result of the afternoon for Bedfordshire County Football League sides perhaps belongs to Great Barford who ran out 3-2 home winners over Wootton Blue Cross U21 thanks to goals from Ben Stock, Elijah Hukin and Gary Canzano.

Yet not far behind would be Meltis Albion’s 2-1 home victory over Sundon Park Rangers, Lewis Aitken and a penalty from Alex Smith on the Albion scorecard against a lone reply from Nicky Buttigeig.

Also into the hat for the third round draw are both Queens Park Crescents and AFC Oakley M&DH Reserves. The Crescents with four goals from Ayaz Hussain winning 4-2 at AFC Harlington for whom Jamie Daniels and Greg Douglas replied. Whilst M&DH were 3-2 home winners over Potton Town. Jamie Endersby, Ian Scott and Ray Patrickson on their scoresheet against Town replies via Chris Cooper and James Pyman.

Alas it was the end of the road for four of our other sides, all to opposition from the Luton District & South Beds League. AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Reserves having just a Mark Palmer goal to show from their 4-1 home defeat at the hands of Four Model. Whilst Elstow Abbey having had Jason Simons sent off after just 30 minutes were beaten 1-0 on home soil by Crawley Green A.

The other two clubs also going out were Bedford SA on home soil 3-1 to Bar 32 Luton despite a goal from Justin Muircroft and Riseley Sports losing 4-3 at St Joseph where Mark Darlow netted twice and Paul Brown once.

Division One supported by Wests Citroen Bedford

In the afternoon’s lone league action Henlow duly retained their seasons unbeaten ways to go seven points clear at the head of the league table with a 4-1 victory at Shefford Town & Campton Reserves. Antony Bowskill netted twice alongside George Renny and George Kiely to end the home sides four game unbeaten run for whom Stuart Pearce netted.

Division Two

Westoning remain unbeaten on the road this season and still on top of the division two league table after winning 6-2 at bottom of the table Wilstead Reserves. Glenn Cooksley netting four times alongside single strikes from Shaun Cooksley and Tayler Clayton against home replies via Paul Jones and Luke Prietzel.

Now up into second spot are FC Houghton who netted their sixth win on the bounce with a 3-0 home victory over Clapham Sports who were losing for the first time in six outings. Mark Doran, Nathan Prime and Valentino Ukegbu netting the vital goals.

Losing out on that second spot are Elstow Abbey Reserves who saw their six game winning run and seasons unbeaten ways ended with a 1-0 defeat at Wootton Village for whom an Adam Flynn header found the back of the net.

The biggest winners of the day were Renhold United Reserves who ran out 8-1 home victors over Caldecote Reserves. Michael France with a hat-trick, Josh Burnapp with a brace being supported by single strikes from Ian Asplin, Justin Ludman and Sindeep Chana against a lone reply via Simon Ashton.

Elsewhere there were away wins for both Stevington and Moggerhanger United. United, following three straight away defeats, saw goals from Lee Adams and Dean Hill take them to a 2-1 win at Marston Shelton Rovers Reserves for whom Carl Borromeo replied. Whilst Stevington made it three away wins on the bounce with a 4-1 victory at Kempston Athletic - Ben Walsh, Gavin White and Kieran Souter plus an own goal only being replied to once by Dave Wild.

Division Three

The new leaders of the division three league table are Flitwick Town Reserves following their 3-0 win at Sandy Reserves to send the hosts to the bottom of the league, Benn Ward netting twice and Chris Bull once to do the damage.

Losing out on that top spot are Clifton who were beaten 5-4 at Dinamo Flitwick who duly retained their seasons unbeaten home ways. Josh Pearson with four goals and a single strike from Dale Goldie bringing up the home nap hand against replies via Tony Norman, Andy Harvey, Dale Houghton and Chris Mattingley.

Now up into third are Ickwell & Old Warden Reserves who won 3-2 at Atletico Europa to end the home sides four game winning run. Marko Tobdzic, Frazier Maidment and Matthew Bruney netting for the visitors against home replies via Kane Alexander and Garfield Nelson.

Just two points behind them in fourth place are Shefford Town & Campton A who won 3-1 at Westoning U20. Jordan Robbens netting twice and Dean Linsell once against a lone home reply via Dominic Benmoussa.

For Lea Sports PSG it was a first away win of the season in winning 2-1 at Caldecote U20. Ryan Darby winning the game with a 90th minute penalty following an earlier goal from teammate Jordan Yearwood against a home strike from Liam Thompson. This narrow defeat lifting the hosts off the bottom of the table on goal difference at the expense of Sandy Reserves.

Elsewhere, White Eagles chalked up their third consecutive victory with a 2-0 home win over FC Serbia. Rafal Cygan opening the scoring in the 18th minute before he doubled the scoreline from the penalty spot 20 minutes into the second half.

Leighton Buzzard has this afternoon been featured as a national case study on how to help bees to back up minister Liz Truss launch of the Government’s national pollination strategy.

The Environment Secretary is acting after a series of warnings that bee populations are falling dramatically across the world.

Bees pollinate 75% of our food and without them it would cost £1.7 billion a year to hand pollinate our food.

But the insects are suffering from a severe loss of habitats, as 97% of the UK’s wildflower areas have been lost since the Second World War, with the increased use of pesticides also having an impact.

The government is calling on people to do more in their gardens and across council parks to save bees, as well as working with farmers and large landowners such as Network Rail.

And Leighton Buzzard is a national case study due to the work of Leighton-Linslade Town Council, who became a bee-friendly town council and worked with South Beds Friends of the Earth to involve a huge range of organisations and local residents to create eight sites of wildflowers and wildflower-friendly habitats across town.

Lord De Mauley, the Environment Minister at the invitation of the MP Andrew Selous visited some of the sites in the summer and met the huge range of people involved – including many independent retailers, Anglia in Bloom, residents, Waitrose, Heathwood School , Mentmore Preschool, London Midland, Network Rail, the Greensand Trust, the Wildlife Trusts and many more.

This autumn South Beds Friends of the Earth with the support of the town council is starting a new programme of planting wildflower areas and native hedges across Leighton Buzzard and is calling for people to give just an hour of their time to help the bees and local wildlife.

Victoria Harvey, of South Bedfordshire Friends of the Earth, said: “It is not just about bees but also all our wildlife such a butterflies, birds and hedgehogs.

“We have lost half of our hedgehogs in the last 20 years mainly due to loss of habitat. We are doing a mixture of planting wildflowers, planting native hedges and leaving the grass long.

“Wildlife need flowers for nectar , but they also need nesting and hibernating places and long tussock grass , seed heads hedges, shrubs and woodpiles are vital for this.

“We are creating many more areas across the town at the edges of playing fields and parks etc. and we really need help. Just an hour of your time makes all the difference please come and help us.”

Forthcoming dates:

Thursday, November 13 (9.30 to 1pm): Between Woodman Close and Hockliffe Road beside Clipstone Brook; digging and preparing for planting with Josie who was playing the role of the bumble bee at the canal and other young people who live close to the area.

Friday, November 14 (10 am -1pm): War Memorial community garden on Mentmore Road planting up the new area with bulbs, vegetables flowers etc with Dawn and Joanna.

Saturday, November 15 (10am-1pm): Between Woodman Close and Hockliffe Road digging up turf and planting wildflowers on the green space beside Hockliffe Road by Woodman Close with Josie and other young people who live close to the area.

Sunday, November 16 (10am-2pm): Riverbank in the centre of town by Bridge Street opposite Leighton Middle School ; clearing nettles and planting more wildflower on the riverbank by the road bridge.

Thursday, November 20 (9am-1pm): Parson’s Close on the banks of Clipstone Brook; planting bulbs and transplanting comfrey.

Saturday, November 22 ( 10am-12noon) and Sunday, November 23 (10am-4pm): Astral Park near the new community facilities. Planting 300m hedge for wildlife, bees, birds and hedgehogs, by the new playing fields at Astral Park.

Saturday, December 6 (10.30-2pm): Planting wildflowers at Linslade Rec near St Barnabas Church.

Sunday, December 7 (10.30am-2pm): Planting venue to be confirmed.

> For more details see www.southbedsfoe.co.uk contact Victoria Harvey on 07815817108 or email vapharvey@btinternet.com

> See the Leighton case study at http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/sites/default/files/leighton_buzzard_case_study2.pdf ,

Leighton Town’s FA Trophy adventure came crashing down on Tuesday night as they were thumped 5-2 by Leiston in the first qualifying round replay.

After throwing away a 2-0 lead away on Saturday, Town were made to pay by Leiston at Bell Close as the visitors booked their spot in the second qualifying round.

It could have been a different story all together though, as Town took the lead after just seven minutes when Danny Watson beat keeper Danny Gay.

The lead was short lived though as two minutes later, Leon Ottley-Gooch pulled Leiston level.

And the visitors were in the lead by the 13 minute mark as Conor Hubble fired Leiston in front.

Phil Draycott almost equalised for the home team, latching on to Watson’s nod down, but his strike skimmed the top of the bar.

Leiston doubled their lead from the penalty spot 11 minutes before half time when keeper Dan Green brought down Joe Francis in the area. Gareth Heath did the duties to put the visitors 3-1 to the good.

Three minutes after the break, the referee was pointing to the spot again when Mark Bunker was adjudged to have handled in the area - Heath stroking home his second of the night to put the game beyond Leighton.

The home side kept plugging away but to no avail, and found themselves 5-1 down with eight minutes remaining when Tom Winters crashed home another.

Leighton were awarded a penalty of their own - the third of the night - late on when Alvin Rajaram was fouled in the area, earning Blake Saker his marching orders for a second booking. Watson did the duties from the spot, but it was mere consolation as Leiston left comfortable winners.

Leighton are back in action on Saturday, taking on Barton Rovers at Bell Close.

Cheddington Combined School are holding an Auction of Promises with Beer and Wine Tasting on Thursday (November 6) to raise money for Children in Need.

It take place at 7pm for 7.30pm at Cheddington School Hall, with programmes just £3, which entitles you to entry and a glass of beer or wine.

You can purchase a programmes either from Cheddington school office (01296 668324) or on the door on Thursday evening.

There will be some fantastic promises on offer including:

1. One hour of cricket coaching for 5-8 children in a state of the art indoor cricket facility to include access to a bowling machine and video feedback. Coaching will be with at least one level 3 qualified coach. Suitable for children aged 8 and over. Times to be agreed with coach and Sunday not available. Package cost in the region of £250 normally. Kindly donated by the McIntosh Family.

2. A two-hour party planned and run in the buyer’s own home to a theme of their choice for up to 15 children aged 9 and under. Food not included but cupcakes provided. Kindly donated by the McIntosh Family.

3. Rebellion Ale beer selection with embossed glass. Kindly donated by Rebellion Brewery.

4. Sailing lesson for a couple of hours. For one person in the spring. Could be am or pm. Kindly donated by Mr Mac Cleland.

5.An hour’s one-on-one personal guitar lesson. Kindly donated by Mr Hickey.

6. Fine dining extravaganza hosted by two very serious foodies from the governing body. Kindly donated by Jane Nicholls and Rob Johnston.

7. Vineyard tour and experience with wine tasting for two people at The Chiltern Valley Vineyard.

8. Four tickets this year’s Christmas pantomime at Court Theatre, Aladdin. Performance is on Tuesday 30th December 2014 at 1.30pm Kindly donated by The Russon family.

9. A personalised one-tier celebration cake. Up to 12’’ wide in size. Flavours and design of choice. Kindly donated by Clare Cleland.

10. A batch of homemade delicious flapjacks. Kindly donated by Mrs Hamper.

Leighton-Linslade mayor, Councillor Ray Berry’s annual Christmas Carol Concert will take place at All Saints’ Church, Leighton Buzzard on Saturday, December 13, starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available from the town council offices in Hockliffe Street, Selection Hardware Store and All Saints Church.

They can also be purchased at the door on the evening. Tickets cost £3 per adult and £2 concessions. For further details contact mayor’s secretary Christine Barrow on 01525 631921.

Leighton Buzzard ladies turned out in droves to support soyou boutique’s Real Women campaign fashion show.

The Green House Tea Rooms, in Market Square, Leighton, was converted into a fashion show venue on Friday, October 24 complete with red carpet, jazz band with soyou customers and friends stepping into the shoes of supermodels.

Rosa Cristini, the owner of soyou boutique, said: “It was a sell-out event with models of all ages, shapes and sizes. It was great to hear the cheers of support from friends and family of all the real women who braved the catwalk to show that great fashion isn’t a reserve of supermodels.

“The ladies loved the dresses and I heard so many people say there is nothing around here like this. I am so pleased to be able to fulfil a clear need for such a service.”

Profits from £20-a-head ticket sales went to ABF The Soldiers’ Charity.

The current soyou event is a Christmas Party Dress Week from November 3 to 7, with the boutique open until 9pm from Monday to Friday.

Rosa said: “Ladies can come along to shop and make an evening of it. The wine bar will be open to help make their shopping experience a little more fun in a super environment.”

Contact soyou via www.soyouboutique.co.uk.

Bletchley Park is opening a major new exhibition to take visitors behind the scenes of the highly-anticipated movie The Imitation Game which hits UK cinema screens on November 14.

A dramatic portrayal of the life and work of Second World War codebreaker Alan Turing, the film stars a host of British acting talent including Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley.

On Tuesday, November 4, there will be an exclusive preview screening of the film for a select audience at Bletchley Park. In the evening there will be a preview of the exhibition all about the making of the film, in the very room where the bar scenes were filmed.

Entering the exhibition on a red carpet in the billiard room, visitors will first see costumes worn by the stars, Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley as Alan Turing and Joan Clarke, as well as the boys at Sherborne School, where a young Alan was played by Alex Lawther.

Once inside the ballroom itself, fans can pose for a photo in the bar, and discover more behind-the-scenes gems.

The array of items on display will include the Enigma intercepts Alan Turing stuffs into his socks and trousers to sneak them off site, the scribbles made by John Cairncross (played by Downton Abbey’s Allen Leech) and the prototype Bombe machine Turing names Christopher, after his first love.

Sarah Kay, Bletchley Park’s digitisation and exhibitions officer, said: “The Imitation Game exhibition is an opportunity to not only provide our existing audiences the chance to see some of the film’s set dressing and some of the fantastic objects and documents created by the film’s art department.

“It is also an opportunity for us to reach new audiences of film fans who otherwise may not be familiar with the secret wartime work of Alan Turing and the thousands of other heroes who undertook arguably the most important work of the their lives.

“The making of the film will send the history of Bletchley Park worldwide with such incredibly impressive and intense performances by some of Britain’s most elite actors.

“Bletchley Park is incredibly proud of what the filmmakers and actors were able to achieve.”

England and Arsenal footballer Casey Stoney opened Cedars Upper School’s new £1million sports pavilion last Monday.

The facility replaced an old pavilion that was no longer usable and has a classroom, kitchen, four changing rooms and facilities for Leighton Buzzard Canoe Club.

Headteacher Steve Palmer said: “It was an honour to have such an accomplished sportsperson here with us today. Casey was with us all day as part of a partnership with Sky Sports, and the students she worked with had a really valuable experience.

“This is a fantastic resource for our students and the local community. We think this pavilion will be well used and will support local sports teams using the Cedars 3G football pitch and other sports facilities here on site.”

He added: “

We would like to thank the Leighton Buzzard Canoe Club, Sport England, the EFA (Education Funding Agency) and our own site team for their support and assistance in getting this £1million project completed. We would also like to thank the staff and students of Cedars Upper School for their patience and consideration during this project, and for PCH Associates for project managing the work.”

Leighton Town FC manager Craig Bicknell will face no further legal action after the CPS dropped a drugs charge against him today, the LBO can reveal.

Mr Bicknell, along with his brother Paul, had been charged with two counts of conspiracy to possess Class A drugs (cocaine) with intent to supply.

Following a trial at Aylesbury Crown Court the Leighton manager was cleared of one count on October 22, while the jury were unable to come to a verdict on the second.

In court today the Crown Prosecution Service offered no evidence for the second charge, dropping the case.

Paul Bicknell was found not guilty on both counts during the original trial and was discharged last month.

> Read Tuesday’s LBO for a full interview with Craig Bicknell

A mum battling a brain tumour will fulfil her heartfelt ambition by planting a memorial tree for Brain Tumour Research.

Nicole Taylor (formerly Witts), 42, of Soulbury was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2008 and had it successfully removed in an operation.

But she and her family were devastated earlier this year to learn that the tumour had come back and was inoperable.

Determined to carry on the campaign to raise awareness and increase funding for research, Nicole decided to plant a tree in Soulbury dedicated to Brain Tumour Research.

Speaking to the Observer in October, Nicole said: “For me to have that tree there, it would feel like I’m still there raising awareness, making a difference even after I’ve gone.”

Brain tumours are among the deadliest forms of cancer for people under 40, with fewer than 20% surviving five years after diagnosis. But currently, it receives just 1% of national cancer research spending.

A spokesman for Brain Tumour Research said: “Nicole is an inspiration. We are delighted that she has chosen to plant a tree for Brain Tumour Research in this beautiful setting in Soulbury, and hope that long before the tree matures, survival rates for brain tumours will at the very least radically have improved to that of other cancers.”

Nicole says planting the tree will fulfil item number 201 of a long bucket list she wrote.

Sir Nicholas and Lady Bonsor of Soulbury will plant a red acer – blessed by Rev Philip Derbyshire – in a special ceremony at the Millennium Green in Soulbury on Saturday November 8 at 10am. All are welcome to attend.

The Business is Great campaign and BT Business have teamed up to launch the Great Faces of British Business competition.

They are looking for the most innovative small businesses in the South East.

The regional champion will then be shortlisted for the national competition.

The national winner will win a prize package worth over £30,000, this will include an iPad Air, unlimited BT Wi-fi for a year and a bespoke creative advertising campaign.

There are three categories, Best exporter, Most innovative small business and Best growth story, businesses can enter all three.

Business Minister Matthew Hancock said: “Small businesses have been the driving force of our economic recovery. This is a top opportunity to celebrate the enormous contribution they make to villages, towns and cities across Great Britain.

“I am committed to fostering this entrepreneurial spirit and making sure that Britain is the best place in the world to start and grow a business.”

Steve Rathborne, Director of Sales, BT Business said: “Small businesses are the heart of UK business. As an organisation, BT Business wants to help and support small businesses to succeed. The South East has a pedigree of producing innovative and successful businesses and leaders.

“That’s why we’re supporting the Business is GREAT Britain campaign in order to discover and champion the entrepreneurial talent that’s out there and to give businesses an opportunity to boost their fortunes even further through a marketing package and business support from BT Business and UKTI.”

To enter, visit: www.greatbusiness.gov.uk/competition.

Proposals to build houses at Valley Farm near Linslade have once again resurfaced.

Paul Newman Homes will be again submitting an application – this time for 300 homes to be built – on part of the land situated between the western edge of Leighton-Linslade and the A4146.

Attempts by the company to develop the land in the past have drawn fierce opposition from local councillors and residents.

Leighton-Linslade town councillor Mike Bishop said: “They’re free to apply, but I can’t see anyone on the town council changing their mind.”

He added: “But we do have to assess each application on its merits.”

In 2010, Paul Newman Homes submitted to plans build 900 houses on site which were unanimously rejected.

Attempts made last year through agents Curtin & Co to present new plans to residents “to gauge public opinion” also drew widespread opposition.

Although situated just to the west of Linslade, the site falls within Aylesbury Vale District Council who have planning authorisation over the site.

Agents Curtin & Co stated they would be holding an exhibition of the plans at Soulbury Village Hall, High Road in Soulbury, on Friday November 7 from 2pm to 8pm, and Saturday November 8, from 11am to 5pm. For those unable to attend, the exhibition will also be available to view here from Friday.

The action spotlight this weekend for the majority of our Premier Division supported by Sportsform clubs falls upon the second round ties in this seasons Bedfordshire FA Senior Trophy.

Of the six ties our clubs are involved the draw has produced three all Bedfordshire County Football League affairs. At Hillgrounds the hosts AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College, who have yet to win this season, play Eastcotts AFC.

Whilst at their Playing Field Headquarters, Renhold United receive a visit from a Flitwick Town side they beat 6-0 on their own turf just three weeks ago to start the game firm favourites to progress into round three.

The other tie is at Oakley Playing Field where hosts AFC Oakley M&DH welcome Sandy and with the home side still unbeaten at home this season you would favour them to be in the hat for the third round draw come the final whistle.

Of the three sides facing opposition from other leagues, two have been blessed with home ties when on the Green, Ickwell & Old Warden will welcome South Midlands League side The 61 FC Luton.

Whilst its also SML opposition at Pavenham Playing Fields for Pavenham against Bedford.Yet for Sharnbrook its a trip on the road to the Hollow to take on United Counties League side Potton United.

With all this cup action taking place the Premier Division supported by Sportsform action is reduced to a programme of two games. At Hurst Grove, bottom of the table Lidlington United Sports will be in search of their first win of the season when called upon by third from bottom of the table Wilstead who travel in hope of their first away win since winning at Eastcotts AFC in early September and just down the road at Marston Playing Fields fourth place hosts Marston Shelton Rovers look for their first home win in three outings when called upon by near neighbours Wootton Blue Cross.

In Division One supported by Wests Citroen Bedford action with league leaders Henlow sitting the afternoon out second place Elstow Abbey will look to retain their seasons 100% away record and reduce the gap between them to just four points when they journey to Fisher Close to take on sixth place Great Barford who are currently enjoying a three game winning run and thus will be no pushovers.

Fourth place Sundon Park Rangers will endeavour to end a run of three league games without a victory when they make their way to Cople Playing Fields to be hosted by eleventh place Bedford SA.

Over at Miller Road, seventh place Meltis Albion also without a win from their last three league outings will nevertheless be confident they can return to winning ways when they play hosts to second from bottom of the table AFC Harlington who will come into the game now losers of their last six league outings and without a league win to their name all season.

Elsewhere, King George VI Playing Fields is the venue at which AFC Oakley M&DH Reserves will play just their second home game of the season against Shefford Town & Campton Reserves who will travel in search of their first away win of the season and at Gold Street, where hosts Riseley Sports have been beaten just the once this season their visitors are Marabese Ceramics who are now unbeaten in their last three league encounters.

The final game in this division comes at Mill Lane where Potton Town will be expecting to collect just their second home win of the season when called upon by bottom of the table Brache Sparta.

Meantime for Cranfield United its the staging of their delayed Bedfordshire FA Intermediate Cup Second Round tie when they travel to face Barton Rovers U20 Development B.

Division Two action brings about home action for the leading three sides. At Greenfield Road, league leaders Westoning are due a visit from ninth place Wootton Village who will travel looking for their fourth away win on the bounce and for third place Elstow Abbey Reserves who still hold down a seasons 100% home record its a visit to the Warren by Meltis Albion Reserves who will make the short trip in search of their third consecutive away win. Whilst at Moore Crescent second place FC Houghton now on a six game winning run are in home action against bottom of the table Wilstead Reserves who are still looking for their first win of the season.

Other action is due at the Hockey Centre where hosts Bedford United will looked to extend their unbeaten home ways to five games when called upon by a Kempston Athletic side who still remain unbeaten on the road this season and at Cutler Hammer hosts Kempston Hammers Sports look for their first victory in five outings when visited by second from bottom of the table Marston Shelton Rovers Reserves who will travel in hope of their first away point/points of the season.

The final game comes at Horseshoes Close, the venue at which Moggerhanger United look for just their second home win of the season against the visiting fourth place Clapham Sports.

In Division Three with league leaders Flitwick Town Reserves sitting the afternoon out for second place Clifton it’s a chance to return to the top of the table when in home action at Whiston Crescent they search for home win number four on the bounce against third from bottom of the table Westoning U20 who are yet to win on the road this season.

Whilst sixth place Cranfield United Reserves hit the road to Hillgrounds looking to preserve their seasons unbeaten ways against the hosting White Eagles who go in search of their fourth league win on the bounce.

Still with a 100% perfect away record are seventh place Atletico Europa who will be en route for Sandy Academy to face a Mid Beds Tigers side who are yet to win on home soil this season and for third place Ickwell & Old Warden Reserves its the short trip down the road to Harvey Close to be hosted by second from bottom of the table Caldecote U20.

Other action comes at Rectory Road, the venue at which fourth place Shefford Town & Campton A look to remain unbeaten on home soil this season against the visiting eighth place Lea Sports PSG and at Bedford Academy its home action for ninth place FC Serbia now unbeaten in their last three home starts against the visiting fifth place Dinamo Flitwick.