Matt Adcock reviews Danny Boyle’s new film about Apple founder Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs is a remarkable movie about an incredibly driven man. You don’t have to be a fan of Apple iPods, iMacs, iPhones or iPads (although to declare an interest here, I am), to appreciate what an impact his company has had on society’s tech habits.

Director Danny Boyle injects energy and real conviction into this tale of Jobs’ life. Rather than going for a whole-life biopic, Steve Jobs highlights three key time points, each backstage at major product launches. This format works really well and we start in 1984 when Jobs (Michael Fassbender) faces the world to introduce the revolutionary Macintosh.

Things are complicated by the arrival minutes before the launch of Chrisann Brennan (Katherine ‘Inherent Vice’ Waterston) who wants him to support her after a paternity suit that finds it is 94.1 per cent likely that he is the dad of her daughter Lisa. This parental drama and his ensuing relationship with young Lisa (played by different actresses at each time point) forms a strong counter narrative to the high tech/high pressure launch paranoia.

In 1998 we join Jobs and his team, who include his right hand woman Joanna Huffman (Kate Winslet on top form) - the power behind the throne - at the launch of his problematic non Apple ‘NeXT’ computer. The final section takes place in 1998 when the tech world witnesses the seismic shift that was the iMac.

Fassbender is incredible as the man whose driven tech vision changed the way so many of us communicate and consume media. But he’s ably supported by the rest of the cast and it’s the human interaction that gives this flashy tech film a strong beating heart. The strained relationships Jobs was purported to have with key other Apple players including Andy Hertzfeld (Michael Stuhlbarg), John Sculley (Jeff Daniels) and Steve Wozniak (Seth Rogen) make compulsive viewing.

Steve Jobs was undoubtedly a maverick and a fascinating character. This extremely engaging insight into just what made him tick is highly recommended viewing.

* Tweet Matt at @Cleric20

A pensioner has been taken to hospital with head injuries after she was involved in a hit and run collision on Monday afternoon.

Paramedics were called to the 73-year-old female pedestrian outside the Swan pub in Olney High Street at 3pm.

Police are appealing for witnesses from anybody who was in the area.

The driver of the unidentified vehicle involved failed to stop, say officers.

Police would particularly like to trace the driver of a white lorry seen in the area at the time.

Anybody with information should contact PC Liz Johnson on 101 or call Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Renhold United took full advantage of AFC Oakley being in cup action to climb back onto the top of the Premier Division supported by Sportsform by winning 2-1 at Shefford Town & Campton.

Jason Allison and Wesley Lewis netted the vital goals against one in reply from Town’s Chris Clark.

Whilst with AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College also having the afternoon off now sitting third in the league are Flitwick Town who retained their 100% home record in recording their sixth win on the bounce with a 3-1 victory over Pavenham, Vinicius Doratiotto with a brace and Callum Jones netting the goals against a lone reply from Tom Rodger.

The biggest win of the day belonged to fifth place Ampthill Town Reserves who are now unbeaten in their last eight outings after running out 6-0 home winners over second from bottom of the table Elstow Abbey for whom it was an eighth consecutive league defeat. Phil Matthews netted twice and was joined on the scoresheet by an own goal plus strikes from Ian Buckingham, Martin Pell and Joe O’Donnell.

Whilst for sixth place Wilstead it was league win number five on the bounce via a 4-0 home victory over Cranfield United. Jim Struthers with a brace plus Colin Marshall and Jim Struthers netting the goals.

Elsewhere for Sharnbrook it was away win number one of the season with a 3-2 victory at Marston Shelton Rovers, Louis Green, David Mulvihill and Joel Ives on their scoresheet against Rovers replies via Jamie Cerminara and Harry Murray.

Whilst winning for the first time on home soil this season were Caldecote who ran out 2-0 winners over bottom of the table Eastcotts AFC who have now lost all of their last 11 league outings. Tom Wallace with a goal in each half did the damage.

Bedfordshire FA Senior Trophy Round Two

Last season’s beaten finalists AFC Oakley M&DH made their exit from this seaso’ns competition when beaten 5-4 at home by South Midlands League side Kent Athletic who will now visit Ickwell & Old Warden at the Quarter-Final stage in a month’s time. Andrew Latimer with a hat-trick and Robbie Alder netted the M&DH goals to no avail.

Division One supported by Wests Citroen Bedford

There is no change at the head of the Division One supported by Wests Citroen Bedford league table following home wins for the top two clubs.

For leaders Sundon Park Rangers it was a retention of their 100% home record and unbeaten run with a 5-1 victory over Shefford Town & Campton Reserves. Shaka Anderson and Nash Bennett both netted twice, joined on the scoresheet by Matt Conway to bring up the nap hand against a lone Town reply via Jon Ranson.

Whilst second place Stevington also retained their 100% home record when beating AFC Oakley M&DH Reserves 4-3. Reece Williams, Kieran Souter, Torn Roberts and Ben Walsh saw their goals replied to by Daniel Glos, Ashley Phelan and Owen Leyton.

Down at the other end of the table Henlow successfully moved off of the bottom of the standings with their first home win of the season in beating the previously unbeaten away from home Meltis Albion 3-1, Matt Wilson with a brace and Sam Crow seeing their goals only replied to once by Dan Taylor for the Albion.

This victory now leaving AFC Oakley M&DH Reserves in the bottom spot and Henlow also above Potton Town who were beaten for the sixth consecutive outing when losing 4-2 at Riseley Sports. Mark Darlow, Jake Hislop, Jack Healy and Adam Poole were the home marksmen against Town replies from Chris Moore and Jack Lenham.

Now unbeaten in their last three home outings are Houghton Athletic following their 2-1 victory over Queens Park Crescents. Jordan Thomas netting both the goals against one in reply from Shazad Sattar.

The Westoning v Ickleford game at Greenfield Road was waterlogged off.

Bedfordshire FA Intermediate Cup Second Round

AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Reserves will now journey and face Luton District & South Beds League side YP Community in Round Three following their 3-0 home win over Stotfold U21. Daniel Mattin, Aaran Chaplin and Abdoulay Diallo all found the back of the net.

Division Two

Cranfield United Reserves’ lead at the head of the Division Two is now down to three points after they lost their 100% ways by being held to a 3-3 home draw by Bedford United. Phil Distin twice and Tom Parker were on the home scoresheet against replies via a Simon Wade brace and Kian Marashi.

Just those three points behind are Cople & Bedford SA who remain 100% at home this season after netting a 7-0 win over second from bottom of the table Marston Shelton Rovers, Ollie Hughes and Daniel Lupon both netting hat-tricks alongside a single strike from Kieran Wills.

However just goal difference behind in third spot are Lea Sports PSG who ran out 5-4 winners at third from bottom of the table Kempston Athletic. Jordan Yearwood and Ryan Darby both netted twice and Joe Hennem once to bring up the nap hand against Athletic replies via Gavin Matthews twice plus Richie Andrews and Troy Bossendorfe.

For fifth place Clapham Sports it was a retention of their 100% home ways with a 3-2 victory over the previously unbeaten away from home Flitwick Town Reserves. Glen Tumulty was the lone destroyer with all three goals against Town’s replies via Ben Ralphs and Dean Gadsden.

Whilst sixth place Atletico Europa returned to winning ways with a 3-1 home victory over Wootton Village. Shah Rahman, Daniel Green and Serge Kadji on their scoresheet against a lone Village reply via Jay Rogers.

Division Three

With league leaders Wixams having their game called off when Meltis Albion Reserves failed to raise a side to host them at Miller Road their lead at the head of division three is now down to four points after Sundon Park Rovers took their unbeaten ways up to seven games and retained their unbeaten away ways by sharing the spoils in a 3-3 draw at Renhold United Reserves who were duly losing their seasons 100% home record.

Achland Howes, Craig Barnes and Daniel Longalonga were the Rovers marksmen against United replies via Michael France, Nathan France and JP Stribling.

For third place Dinamo Flitwick it was a 4-1 win at Shefford Town & Campton A. Dean Myles scored a brace and was joined on the scoresheet by Dale Goldie and Callum Phillips against one in reply from Jonathan Folly. Whilst fourth place AFC Dunton are still unbeaten on home soil after running out 5-1 winners over Caldecote Reserves. Dean Hill with a hat-trick was joined on the scoresheet by a Tony Norman penalty and a strike from James Gauge to bring up the nap hand against a lone visitors reply from Adam Legate.

Now in fifth are White Eagles who won 4-3 at Clifton, Jacek Tereszkiewicz with a brace plus single goals from Karimerz Orzechowski and Alkadivsz Boruch outscoring home replies from Dale Houghton, Callum McCoy and Stuart Kemp.

Whilst following six straight defeats Sandy Reserves recorded their first home win of the season with a 3-1 victory over Wilstead Reserves to lift themselves off of the bottom of the league at the expense of Meltis Albion Reserves. Aiden London with a brace plus Kevin Fage scored the goals to do the damage against a lone reply from Callum Evans.

Division Four

Mid Beds Tigers remain 100% for the season and three points clear at the head of division four after going nap with a 5-0 home win over third place Stevington Reserves. However things were not as easy as the scoreline suggests as with an hour played the game was still all square at 0-0. Then up stepped Liam Brophy to open the scoring and within 60 seconds Tomas-Lee Smith had made it 2-0. When Brophy netted goal number three 15 minutes from time it was game over, Brophy striking again in the 85th and 86th minutes to bring his personal tally for the afternoon up to four.

For second place Polonia Bedford it was a 3-2 home defeat at the hands of fourth place Caldecote A. Jack Stagg with a brace and Paul Rannow were on the winner’s scoresheet against home replies via Piotr Armata and Marian Sozczyk.

Whilst still moving ever closer to the top of the table are fifth place Bedford Albion who made it four wins on the bounce with a 5-2 home victory over Flitwick Town A. Jake Brown with a brace joined on the scoresheet by Shaun Challi, Josh Emmerton and Daniel Jeffries to bring up the nap hand against Town replies via Ben Stones and Robbie Simpkins.

Just goal difference behind the Albion in sixth place are Westoning Reserves who were 6-1 winners at bottom of the table Lidlington United Sports. Sam Roberts led the way with a hat-trick supported by single goals from Sam Childs, Tom Cooksley and Josh Arthur-Kent against a lone strike from United’s John Webber.

Whilst seventh place AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College A were 6-4 home winners over Henlow Reserves. John Hislop and Jake Duxberry both netted twice to go with single goals from Jack Connelly and Chris Greenwood against visiting replies from Andy Harvey twice plus Robbie Angel and Peter Godden.

A mother of two described as a “pocket rocket” for her action-packed life style has been installed as the new Ladies Captain of Leighton Buzzard golf club, teeing off dressed as Mary Poppins and surrounded by colleagues role-playing the cast from the silver-screen hit musical.

Angela Samuels was just three years old when the award winning Walt Disney fantasy starring Julie Andrews as a magical nanny hit the screens in 1964, but the theme was captured by Vice Captain Avril Simpson for the traditional drive-in ceremony to reflect Angela’s all action approach to life.

For Harpenden born Angela took up Scottish dancing at the age of three and went on to compete at national level, cycled four miles to school every day, took up gymnastics, long distance running, netball, hockey and rounders.

And after marrying banker husband Richard and raising a son and daughter Angela went on to be a teaching assistant at Mentmore Road playgroup for 13 years before taking up golf.

A member of Leighton’s Plantation Road club for 29 years, Angela has won many trophies over the years, including the family foursomes competition five times with Richard, Australia bound daughter Rebecca and son Gavin, who became a golf professional four years ago.

Vice Captain Avril told club members at the drive-in: “The Mary Poppins theme is very fitting for Angela because if there’s a job that needs to be done, Angela is on the case. She’s our Pocket Rocket.”

The golf competition following the drive-in was won by Margaret Browning with 35 points, one clear of joint runners-up Jackie Phelps and Debbie Pollard-Barns.

During her year in office, Angela will be supporting research into Rhumatoid arthritis from which several of her family members suffer.

The doors open at 10am, with the £2.50 admission fee including tea/coffee and mince pies as visitors kick-start their Christmas shopping from a range of stalls selling cakes, books, hand-made cards, preserves, gifts, jewellery and handbags.

Lila Garrod has won an award for the most improved Leighton Ladies golfer, while the ever-improving Freya Daniels has been named as the player with the biggest handicap reduction in a year in which she won County and National Schools honours.

Leighton golfer Matt Hill was presented with his County Cap by the President of the Bedfordshire Golf Union which held its annual dinner at the Leighton club attended by 120 guests from most of the other 22 clubs in the County.

Leighton’s David Hawkins takes over as President of the Beds Union next February.

Club Captain Steve Leng raised a further £1,500 for Keech Cottage at a cabaret evening and a Charity golf day won by Steve Shepherd, David Newby, Nick Clarke and Roger Guyver, with Mike and Alex Smith, Jack Crosby and Ed Stephenson runners-up.

There were nearest the pin awards for David Whittaker, Tony Russell, Danny Nairne, Paul Atkinson and George Sadowski with Jamie Stone winning the longest drive.

Concerns over Vauxhall Zafira cars bursting into flames have deepened after a fire brigade released “shocking” figures which suggest the problem is becoming more common.

London Fire Brigade (LFB) told the Press Association that it has attended 71 such fires - not including arson attacks - since 2013, compared to just 38 in the previous four years.

Vauxhall is writing to 220,000 Zafira B owners to ask them to arrange for their car’s heating and ventilation system to be inspected by a local dealer.

The manufacturer said the root cause of the fires is improper repair of the heater fan resistor’s thermal fuse, which protects the system.

Sue Freemantle, 37, who is leading an online campaign for concerned motorists across the UK, expressed her alarm at the LFB figures.

“I think it’s shocking,” she said. Every Zafira should be taken off the road until they find the root cause.

“Just last month alone, from what I have on my record, we’ve got 21 car fires.”

Her campaign has received reports of more than 200 Zafira fires in total, and she believes Vauxhall is withholding important information from owners.

“I think they’re hiding something,” she said. “They’re not telling us everything.”

Mrs Freemantle, of Ivybridge, Devon, launched the campaign after her own Zafira caught fire in September.

She managed to escape with three of her children moments before the vehicle burst into flames.

“My fear is somebody leaves their child in the car to go and pay for their petrol and all of a sudden something starts then,” she explained. “There’s no reason why that couldn’t happen.

“My husband quickly ran in the house to get changed and I luckily was in the car and noticed the car was steaming up.

“The children wouldn’t have noticed so God knows what would have happened (if I wasn’t there).

“Our worst fear is that a child dies. It sends shivers down my spine because it’s the one thing I dread to think.”

LFB’s director of operations, Dave Brown, said: “ If you smell smoke or burning coming from your car while you’re driving it, you should pull over as soon as you can in a safe place, get everyone out of the vehicle and always stay a safe distance away.

“Then call the fire brigade and never go back to the vehicle while you’re waiting. If you are concerned that your vehicle is affected by the recall then contact your manufacturer immediately.”

The brigade’s insight and analytics team - which compiled the figures on Zafira call-outs - identify trends in a bid to protect the public by influencing strategy in relation to fires.

Police have released a number of CCTV images following robberies against businesses in Leighton Buzzard, Linslade and Bedford.

At around 9.15pm on Thursday (November 12) a man targeted Coral bookmakers in North Street, Leighton Buzzard.

The man, believed to be carrying a knife, was verbally aggressive and instructed the store workers to empty the tills and safe, before making off on foot with cash.

The culprit is described as white, around 6ft 2ins, aged in his 30s and of slim build, wearing a black hooded coat.

On Sunday (November 15), two offenders entered the Shell garage in Leighton Road, Linslade, wearing balaclavas. They threatened staff and stole cigarettes and the till, containing cash.

The following day (Monday, November 16) a man entered the Post Office in Library Walk, Bedford, at around 6.40am wearing a high-vis jacket and crash helmet and pretended he was from Customs and Excise. He had left his motorcycle running outside and when store workers questioned him, he left.

A short while later at around 7.35am, a man in similar attire demanded cash from the store worker at Martins newsagents in Avon Drive, Bedford. He was thought to be carrying a gun but again left empty-handed.

Det Insp Zara Brown said: “We have seen a recent rise in offences of this kind and would urge the public and businesses not to worry.

“We take these incidents extremely seriously and are working hard behind the scenes to track down those responsible.

“We are visiting bookmakers and convenience stores to provide reassurance and ask for their support in utilising crime prevention measures to target-harden their premises against senseless acts of this kind.

“I would appeal for anyone who has any information on any of these incidents, or recognises those pictured, to come forward with information.”

Call 101 with information, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Advice for businesses

> Business owners and staff, including those at bookmakers and convenience stores, are being urged not to fight back in the rare event of an attack, and to be reassured that officers are stepping up their response to this distressing and violent crime.

> All commercial properties are also being urged to review their security measures and ensure they have CCTV in place and it is working, with signs to let those who enter the store know that it is in use.

> Staff can also keep a record of those who enter the store who they believe to be acting suspiciously, and are encouraged to report such activity to police on 101.

Premier Division supported by Sportsform action this weekend will see league leaders Renhold United go into home action at their Playing Field base looking to return to winning home ways.

They welcome ninth place Marston Shelton Rovers who will hit the road looking to end a run of three consecutive away defeats.

Whilst second place AFC Oakley M&DH, who still hold down a 100% perfect away record, make the journey to Bedford Road Recreation Ground to be hosted by a Sandy side that have won just the once on home soil all season.

It’s also a trip on the road for third place Flitwick Town, now on a six game winning run and unbeaten in their last 10 league starts. They journey to the Carlsberg Stadium, the temporary home of tenth place Ickwell & Old Warden.

Whilst fourth place AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College, like the Town on a six game winning run, head for a Playing Fields outing against 11th place Pavenham who have been beaten just the once on home soil this season.

Also on top form at the moment are fifth place Ampthill Town Reserves who are on an eight game unbeaten run and for them it’s a trip to Lodge Road to be hosted by 12th place Sharnbrook who will be looking to extend their winning ways to three games.

Whilst sixth place Wilstead seek out their sixth consecutive league win when they journey to Hitchin Road to be hosted by seventh place Shefford Town & Campton.

Down at the other end of the table, second from bottom Elstow Abbey, now on an eight game losing run, play hosts at the Warren against the club just immediately above them in the standings namely Caldecote who hit the road seeking just their second away win of the season.

Whilst just down the road at Weston Park basement club Eastcotts AFC, losers of their last 11 league outings, receive a visit from eighth place Cranfield United who will be looking to repair the damage of two 4-0 away beatings at Wilstead and Shefford Town & Campton in the past 14 days.

Division One supported by Wests Citroen Bedford action will see both of the top two clubs hitting the road. League leaders Sundon Park Rangers are enroute for a Gold Street outing against eighth place hosts Riseley Sports looking to retain their unbeaten ways.

Whilst second place Stevington make tracks to Mill Lane and an outing against second from bottom of the table Potton Town who are now on a six game losing run.

On the 3G surface at Hillgrounds it will be home action for third place AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Reserves who look for their third consecutive home victory when called upon by seventh place Westoning.

At Chambers Lane it’s home local derby action for fourth place Ickleford who look to retain their 100% home record and take their winning ways up to six games when visited by Henlow who have not won on the road since winning at Riseley Sports on the opening day of the season.

Over in Allen Park for fifth place Queens Park Crescents, who remain unbeaten on home soil, the visitors are ninth place Shefford Town & Campton Reserves.

Whilst sixth place Meltis Albion go into home Miller Road action against Houghton Athletic who will hit the road looking for their first away point.

In Division Two for the still unbeaten league leaders Cranfield United Reserves it’s home action at Crawley Road against fifth place Atletico Europa who still remain unbeaten on the road this season. Whilst fourth place Clapham Sports look for just their third away win of the season when they head for a Cutler Hammer outing against seventh place hosts Kempston Hammers Sports who have won just the once on home soil all season.

Other action comes at the Football Centre, the venue at which sixth place Flitwick Town Reserves seek out home win number three on the bounce against tenth place Kempston Athletic who are currently on a five game losing run.

At their Playing Fields base Marston Shelton Rovers Reserves, despite sitting at the bottom of the league, look to retain their unbeaten home record when called upon by eighth place Bedford United who remain unbeaten on the road this season.

Elsewhere for Lea Sports PSG it’s home Pirton Recreation Ground action in the Herts FA Junior Cup against Glenn Sports.

In Division Three for the still 100% league leaders Wixams it’s a trip to Whiston Crescent to face eighth place Clifton who will be looking to end a run of two consecutive home defeats.

Whilst second place Sundon Park Rovers hit the road for a 3G outing at Redborne School against third place Dinamo Flitwick looking to retain their unbeaten away ways.

Also on the road will be fourth place AFC Dunton who head to Rectory Road to be hosted by tenth place Shefford Town & Campton A who will be looking to end a run of four straight defeats. Whilst in Mowsbury Park fifth place White Eagles seek out their fourth win on the bounce when called upon by second from bottom of the table Sandy Reserves now losers of their last four away outings.

Other action comes at Harvey Close, the venue at which ninth place Caldecote Reserves look for just their second home win of the season against the visiting bottom of the table Meltis Albion Reserves

At Jubilee Playing Fields, seventh place Wilstead Reserves also look for just their second home win of the season when called upon by sixth place Renhold United Reserves who will hit the road looking to extend their current unbeaten ways up to four games.

Division Four action sees the 100% league leaders Mid Beds Tigers hitting the road to be hosted at Greenfield Road by sixth place Westoning Reserves. Whilst second place Polonia Bedford, who still remain 100% on the road this season, it’s a trip to face third place and still 100% at home Stevington Reserves at their Playing Field base.

Over at Harvey Close for fourth place Caldecote A it’s home action against seventh place AFC Kempton Town & Bedford College A who have not won on the road since winning at Lidlington United Sports on the opening day of the season.

Whilst fifth place Bedford Albion, now winners of their last four games, head for a Groveside outing against Henlow Reserves who will be in search of their first home point/points of the season.

The final action comes at the Football Centre being the venue at which Flitwick Town A seek out their first home win of the season against the visiting bottom of the table Lidlington United Sports who come in search of their first point.

A man arrested at Luton airport after changing his mind about joining IS has been jailed for five years.

Yahya Rashid, 19, was convicted of preparation for acts of terrorism at Woolwich Crown Court.

Rashid,of Willesden, was sentenced to five years for engaging in conduct with the intention of committing acts of terrorism; five years imprisonment for assisting another to commit such acts; and four months for Fraud by False Representation.

The sentences are to run concurrently.

He was also handed a 15-year Notification Requirement under Part 4 of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008.

In February 2015, Rashid bought flights for himself and four friends, the plan being to fly to Morocco and then from there to Turkey and onto Syria with the intent of joining the proscribed terrorist group calling itself Islamic State (IS).

By buying a flight with the intention of joining the ranks of IS, he was preparing to become involved in terrorism. Rashid made it all the way to Istanbul in Turkey and travelled to the town of Gaziantep, close to the border with Syria, where he stayed in an IS safe house. However, shortly before the group were due to cross the border, it appears Rashid changed his mind and returned to Istanbul. On leaving the British Embassy he was detained by the Turkish Police and deported back to the UK. It is believed that his companions continued on into Syria.

On arrival at Luton Airport, Rashid was arrested by officers from the Metropolitan Police Service’s Counter Terrorism Command (SO15).

Before the trial Rashid also pleaded guilty to an offence of fraud which related to his use of a forged BTEC qualification to secure a place at Middlesex University. He then subsequently obtained a student loan.

Commander Richard Walton, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command (SO15), said: “The sentence demonstrates the seriousness with which the courts are taking terrorism offences. Rashid prepared to join the proscribed terrorist group - Islamic State - and assisted others in their preparation to travel to Syria too. He did make the right decision eventually to return to his family but had by then committed a terrorist offence.”

A 16-year-old boy from Leighton Buzzard has been detained for six-and-a-half years for a vicious attack on a man who, police say, was lucky to survive the onslaught.

LutonCrown Court heard on Wednesday that the boy, who was only 14 at the time of the incident, broke into the former The Dukes Head pub in Leighton Road, Heath and Reach at 6.30am on September 6 last year and brutally beat the occupant with a golf club.

The 49-year-old victim, Jasbir Dhadra, was asleep at the time of the break-in and suffered life-changing injuries in the attack.

He was blinded in one eye during the sustained attack.

The youth, who cannot be identified because of his age, pleaded guilty to wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, conspiracy to commit arson and conspiracy to commit criminal damage.

He was sentenced to six-and-a-half years in a detention centre – although the judge said that, had he been over 18, he would have received a 13-year prison sentence.

It is believed the boy was associated with an older man that was behind the attack, although the motive remains unclear.

The youth was caught thanks to DNA evidence taken from the broken golf club.

Det Con Martin Hart, investigating, said: “This was a horrendous assault that inflicted horrible injuries on a man that quite frankly is lucky to be alive.

“We are pleased the instrument of this despicable crime has been detained with a lengthy sentence for a juvenile; however the instigator is yet to be discovered.

“We are committed to ensure the person behind this attack is brought to justice and ask anyone that has any information that could assist our investigation to come forward in confidence.”

Anyone with information that could help police bring the outstanding offender to justice can call 101, text 07786 200 011, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

A spectacular evening of light, fire and ice is in store for visitors to Woburn Abbey Gardens during an evening show.

Nigrum Luminaries Woburnensis - Black Light at Woburn - is on Saturday, November 28, an event for the whole family.

There is entertainment in the form of ice sculptures, a Chinese dairy, rockery and hornbeam maze aglow, fire sculptures and a black light trail, plus other art installations

Award-winning ice sculptors Glacial Art, commissioned especially for the evening by the Duchess of Bedford, will be creating futuristic ice sculptures, and there is an ice wall to have a go yourself.

You can launch a lotus flower lantern, decorate your own hanging lantern and hang your message on the shimmering Tree of Dreams.

Fire performances will be given throughout the evening, with the lighting of fire sculptures at 7pm and 9pm.

Stalls will include gifts, ladies wear, candles, wooden items, skin care and garden products.

Food stalls offering Bratwurst German sausage, toasted sandwiches, and the Sculpture Gallery’s gourmet barbecue. The Duchess’ Tea Room will be serving light snacks and warm beverages.

Live music is provided by the Woburn Sands Band.

Tickets are adult £10.50, seniors £9 and children (3-15 years) £4.50. Child under 3 years are admitted free.

The event runs from 5pm until 10pm (last entry at 9pm).

Visit www.woburnabbey.co.uk/events

An author from Leighton Buzzard is planning to see his works reach a broader audience via the internet.

Tony Swann, 65, a retired bookseller, has been working on an author page on Amazon, marketing his books among literally millions of others.

Eighteen years ago he published a political novella in a very small edition entitled The Spell Factory which received four star reviews.

Copies are now on offer at up to an astounding £185 in the UK and $250 in the USA.

He has re-issued the book rebranded as The English Dissident and has just created the colourful page on Amazon, offering it along with his other more scholarly works at more reasonable prices.

Please note there is a free app for PCs if you do not have a Kindle. Tony, who ran Wheldon & Wesley Ltd, a family business of specialist natural history booksellers. said: “With a million books for sale on Kindle I am going to have to work hard at marketing!

“I am working on what I hope will be my masterpiece, a novel about spiritual fulfilment as old age approaches.

“The Amazon project took three weeks hard work at no cost. Amazon software is amazing.”

To view his Author Page search on Amazon for The English Dissident, click on the cover image and then on the author name.

An increase in demand for social care has led Buckinghamshire County Council to put a hold on non-essential spending.

The council made the decision to address a possible budget shortfall of almost £6m by March 2016, mainly due to increasing demand for social care for both adults and children, at a meeting.

Highways and pavements are among services which could be affected, as well as recruitment at the council, training, building work and equipment.

Martin Tett, leader of the council, said: “My Cabinet and I agreed, in public, to a freeze on all non-essential spending until the end of the financial year to stop what could become a very challenging situation for us and the public.

“External pressures and demand for services mean we face a potential overspend, despite the fact we are a well-run, efficient council which has saved almost £100m over the past five years. It is precisely because we are well-run that we can see the early warning signs and react to them in time.

“Many county councils across the country are facing similar difficulties, not helped by the fact that we legally have to set a balanced budget at the beginning of every financial year.

“The main catalyst for our potential overspend is the significant increase in demand on services for vulnerable adults and children. There is little we can do about this because we have to give priority to safeguarding our old and our young.

“However, we can control other parts of council spending. So, from now, spending will be frozen on non-essential, non-committed items until the end of March. By non-essential, we mean activities that we are not required to do by law. There will of course be exceptions because we have to keep the business going.

“The actions will include a freeze on the filling of non-essential vacancies. We will also be reviewing all agency and contracted posts, renewal of computer equipment, building adaptions and staff training, amongst other things. And the public will also see an impact in terms of highways and pavements maintenance, as we will need to postpone some routine repairs and improvement projects.

“I’m sorry to have to do this but if we don’t act, we could find we have no money left in reserves in a year or so.

“Managing the council’s budget is like managing your own household budget - as soon as you see the prospect of getting into debt, you tighten your belt.”

A lay reader from Leighton Buzzard has celebrated 25 years of ministry in the church with the community he serves.

Ian Woodward is a lay reader for the Church of England and moved to the town eight years ago.

Along with his wife Sarah, he hosted a tea for members of St Barnabas Church and visitors, held in the community hall nearby, on Sunday, November 8.

Friends travelled from St Mary’s Becontree, in Dagenham, where Ian trained for four years and spent the first 17 years of his ministry.

Among the many duties in the course of his ministry, Ian has conducted funerals, led school assemblies, run Alpha courses and prayed in a home where the occupants suspected a haunting.

Eight years ago Ian and Sarah moved to Leighton Buzzard and were welcomed by the congregation at St Barnabas, and Ian continued his lay ministry.

During the celebratory tea, Ian thanked the two ministers that he had served under - Ron Herbert and local minister Bernard Minton.

He also thanked the two congregations for their support, love and friendship. Members of an Explorer Scout Unit made the teas and coffees, followed by a service of celebration and thanksgiving,

During the service the choir sang a rousing version of When The Saints Go Marching In.

Leighton Buzzard showed solidarity with Paris during a poignant moment at the town’s All Saints Church.

The congregation at All Saints lit candles during their morning Eucharist service on Sunday, November 15 in memory of the casualties of the recent attacks in the French capital.

The gun and suicide bomb attacks on November 13 carried out by Islamic State, left 130 people dead.

Nearly 100 runners took part in the second week of action at Rushmere parkrun.

But blustery winds and muddy forest trails did nothing to dampen the spirits of the participants and volunteers, and it was raining with personal bests as 19 people improved their time from the previous week.

The free weekly event is not a race, but a timed run through Rushmere Country Park that pits participants against the clock and their own performances from previous weeks. Runners receive their results by text message and email shortly after they finish, and can track their improvements over time on the parkrun website.

Phillipa Edmonds recorded the biggest improvement as she slashed almost six minutes off her best time to finish the five kilometres (3.1 mile) course in 29 minutes 48 seconds. Robyn Warner lowered her time by more than four minutes to stop the clock at 38:35, while Kylie Weaver crossed the line in 34:12, compared to 37:34 last week.

Among the 20 runners who were taking part for the first time was Emma Plendy, who finished in 32 minutes 31 seconds.

“Waking up to heavy rain and strong winds I wasn’t sure I was up for running but I am so glad I dragged myself out of bed. The event was really well organised and the atmosphere was fantastic.

“Being a first time mum it’s not easy to find the time to exercise, however being on a Saturday morning is perfect and really sets you up for the day. It was my first organised run and I will definitely be a regular from now on.

“It’s free and caters for all levels, kids included, and is a great way to meet new people and get fit at the same time.”

For the record, Damien Cesbron recorded the fastest time on the day with 20 minutes 13 seconds, while Anna Larkins was the first woman in 23:41. Henry Green led the junior men in 23:47 and Isabella Bidlake Hull was the first junior woman in 27:54.

Rushmere parkrun is open to all ages and abilities. It takes place at 9am each Saturday at Rushmere Country Park. Registration is free at www.parkrun.org.uk/rushmere

As winter sets in and the holiday season approaches people are likely to be using candles to brighten up their homes more, increasing the risk of fires.

In 2013/14 there were 796 candle related fires in England, with nine deaths as a result of a candle causing a fire.

During Candle Fire Safety Week (23 – 29 November) Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service wants to raise awareness of the simple safety measures people can take to stay safe when using candles.

>Make sure that when in use, candles are secured in a proper holder and away from materials that may catch fire – like curtains.

> Children should not be left alone with lit candles.

>Put candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they’re put out completely at night.

>Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.

>Burn candles in a well-ventilated room, but avoid drafts, vents or air currents.

This will help prevent rapid or uneven burning, sooting, and excessive dripping.

>Trim the wick to ¼ inch each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring.

>Don’t move candles once they are lit

>Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on burn time and proper use.

>Do not burn several candles close together as this might cause flaring (mainly with tea-lights).

>Use a snuffer or a spoon to put out candles. It’s safer than blowing them out when sparks can fly.

London Luton Airport (LLA) has opened a new multi-faith airside Prayer Room which is available for staff and departing passengers to use around the clock.

The room is located near departure gate 20, just beyond the retail area of the Departures Lounge. Prayer mats and faith literature are provided and the carpeting features direction of prayer for those faiths that require it.

Religious washing facilities and toilets are also available nearby.

The Airport Chaplaincy Team led by The Revd. Canon Liz Hughes advised LLA and the contractors on the design and finishing of the Prayer Room and will care for the facility on a day to day basis.

The improved new facility has been opened as the airport begins its £110m redevelopment programme. The investment will increase LLA’s annual capacity from 12 million to 18 million by 2026 and transform the experience for passengers by delivering major upgrades to the airport’s facilities, including:

> A complete redesign of the terminal to create a quick, efficient, friendly and convenient passenger experience.

>Improved rail services, with overnight trains from Luton Airport Parkway and the addition of Oyster Card services through to the terminal building by the end of the year.

>Doubling of the existing retail space, introducing exciting shopping and dining options and creating a new world-class executive lounge.

A man is in a critical condition after being stabbed in Leighton Buzzard on Saturday.

Police officers were called to an address on Clarence Road at 10.40am and found that the victim had sustained serious injuries.

He was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, where he continues to fight for his life.

Two men from Leighton Buzzard were arrested in connection with the incident.

A 24-year-old man from Leighton Buzzard has been released on bail with stringent conditions, pending further enquiries.

No further action was taken against another man.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information is urged to contact police on 101.

Leighton Buzzard demolished High Wycombe in their latest SW 1 East season match -scoring eight tries, including three from their own half.

Despite the one-sided score board, possession and territory were evenly matched although, with the ball in hand, Buzzards were clinical in their execution.

High Wycombe were always up against is as Buzzards looked to get their stuttering season back on track, having won just one of their last five matches in the South West 1 East league - a slump which saw them drop to eighth.

Having heard the weather forecast that the strong wind would subside Leighton Skipper Euan Irwin chose to play with the benefit of the wind, but uphill, in the first half.

Both sides had their moments in the initial exchanges but slowly the home team were beginning to build pressure. It was no surprise when it finally told after 14 minutes when centre Geoff Branwhite cut back inside to score the opening try.

Branwhite converted his own try to make it 7-0.

Ten minutes later Buzzards chose a scrum rather than a kickable penalty and were rewarded with a pushover try touched down by Sam Richbell which, with another Branwhite conversion, made the score 14-0

High Wycombe continued to attack through their rolling maul and with their speedy right wing also causing moments of concern.

It was from an attack close to the Buzzard line that the ball was turned over – Leighton flanker and man of the match Tom Byard make a 50 metre break , passed to Ollie Taylor and then to Geoff Branwhite to score his second try – which converted made the half time score 21-0.

And it didn’t take long into the second half for Leighton to get the scoring started once more.

Within two minutes of the second half starting Buzzards had secured the bonus point fourth try, Tom Byard with an individual break to score under the posts -Branwhite converted to make it 28 – 0.

Leighton’s superiority was, to some extent, being nullified by conceding penalties, including four in the first ten minutes of the half.

However they always looked dangerous and whilst a Darren Braybrook effort was disallowed for a forward pass after 17 minute, Tom Byard scored shortly afterwards with a break from a scrum . The conversion was missed -33-0.

It was only eight minutes later that swift hands put replacement Luke Stanbridge clear for Leighton’s sixth try and, straight from the kick off, captain Euan Irwin made a 50 metre break and, drawing the last man, put Lee Walker in to score.

Branwhite’s conversion made the score 45-0.

Buzzards’ final try was a fine example of the pack athleticism and fitness –second row Richie Graydon made a 60 metre break and, in drawing the last man, passed for blind side flanker Ross Bevan to score under the posts.

The conversion made the score 52-0.

High Wycombe continued to attack – turning down many kickable penalties they came close to scoring a consolation try but the Buzzard defence held firm

A truly impressive performance from Buzzards – a solid and athletic pack, signs of a blossoming understanding between Sam Richbell and Tom Byard in the back row, great control from Dan David at 10 and 22 points from Geoff Branwhite.

The result sees Leighton remain eighth in the table, but the tight nature of the league means they are just three points from Maidenhead in third.

Next week Buzzards make the long trip to Swanage and Wareham.

A man is in a critical condition after being stabbed in Leighton Buzzard on Saturday.

Police officers were called to an address in Clarence Road at 10.40am and found that the victim had sustained serious injuries.

He was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, where he continues to fight for his life.

Two men from Leighton Buzzard were arrested in connection with the incident.

A 24-year-old man from Leighton Buzzard has been released on bail with stringent conditions, pending further enquiries.

No further action was taken against another man.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information is urged to contact police on 101.