Shefford Town & Campton remain five points clear in the Premier Division supported by Sportsform after they netted win number five on the bounce on Saturday.

They won 3-0 at Ickwell & Old Warden who were second at the start of play. George Renney, Sam King and Ross Earl netted the goals to send the home side tumbling down to sixth place in the table.

Now in second are Crawley Green Reserves after they were gifted three points when bottom of the table Sharnbrook failed to raise a side to entertain them at Lodge Road.

Whilst just a point behind in third spot are AFC Oakley M&DH who claimed their fourth consecutive home win with a 6-2 victory over Flitwick Town. Elijah Hukin with a brace were joined on the home scoresheet by Mark Smith, Ali Smith, Daniel Kelly and Matt Barnes against Town replies via Will Scutt and Luke Finnie. 

Sitting just goal difference behind but with two games in are Cranfield United who stayed unbeaten by winning 3-2 at Caldecote. Delroy Philips, Courtney Broughton and an own goal saw them home against replies via Jake Wallace and Ashley Farooqui.

Queens Park Crescents who are now unbeaten in their last six outings after winning 3-0 at Riseley Sports thanks to goals from Dominic Parrella, Shauinur Rahman and Chisom Amadi. 

Also enjoying life on the road were Wootton Blue Cross, 4-2 winners at Wilstead. Matt Nolan with a brace plus goals from Joe Zunguzah and Ross Scott only being replied to twice by Paul Jones for the home side.

Elsewhere, Marston Shelton Rovers are still looking for their first home win after being held to a 2-2 draw by AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College. Matthew Eddy and Harry Murray netted for the Rovers and Tom Vandenberg grabbing both of the Town’s replies. 

Still 100 per cent for the season at the top of the Division One supported by O’Neills are Bedford Albion following their 3-0 win at Cranfield United Reserves. Paul Babbington, Jonti Neal and Stephen Mabberley all found the back of the net.

Whilst for second place Wixams it was a 6-2 home victory over Christians in Sport – Jake Dawson with a brace plus a strike from Max Natola shooting them 3-0 ahead before a succesful penalty from Paul Douglas reduced the arrears to 3-1 by the half-time whistle.

Second period action saw home goals from Hadley Long, Gareth White and Adam Jellis put the home side 6-1 ahead before Jamie Nolan netted the final goal of the afternoon to make it 6-2. 

Jumping into third are Henlow following their 3-0 victory at Shefford Town & Campton Reserves who were duly losing their unbeaten record. Luke Hills was the sole destroyer with all three goals.

Also winning on the road were Totternhoe Reserves who took their unbeaten sequence to five games with a 3-1 victory at Flitwick Town Reserves. Josh Langlais with a brace and a single strike from Tom Howson were replied to once by Town’s Benn Ward. 

For AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Reserves it was a first win of the season to climb out of the relegation zone with a 3-0 home victory over The 61 FC Luton Reserves. Chris Allen, Patrick Worth and an own goal did the damage.

Dropping into that zone are Wilstead Reserves following their 3-1 defeat at Cople & Bedford SA. Lucas Banton, Brett Allen and Lewis Fox were on the home scoresheet against a lone reply via Jay Hall. 

Elsewhere, it was a share of the points for Biggleswade FC Reserves and Lea Sports PSG after they played out a 2-2 draw at Langford Road. John Veal and Nathan George were on the home soresheet against PSG replies via Warren Bell and Callum Jones. 

Meltis Albion are three points clear in Division Two supported by Hy-Pro after a 2-1 victory at high-flying Kempston Athletic - and Athletic’s first defeat saw them drop to third. Sean Canavan netted a brace for the Albion and Craig Damon replying for the Athletic. 

Now in second are Houghton Athletic who remain unbeaten on home soil this season following their 9-0 victory over M&DH Clapham Sports. Jordan Thomas led the way with a hat-trick and was joined on the home scoresheet by single goals from Mihail Tudos, Benn Hayward, Ben Starkey, Romayne Sturridge, Adrian Luncasu and Cosmin Miron.

Whilst still in fourth spot are Elstow Abbey despite being held to a 1-1 home draw by St Josephs ( Saturday), Josh Spavins netting for the Abbey and Simon Richards replying for St Joes. Abbey are now the only Division Two side to remain unbeaten this season. 

Atletico Europa won 4-1 at bottom of the table Unite MK Reserves. Moses Gilson with a hat-trick plus a strike from Dee Sayid were replied to once by United’s Michael Afriyie. Whilst into the top six are Sporting Lewsey Park who claimed win number four on the bounce with a 7-0 home victory over Clifton. Chris Gibson with a hat-trick joined on the scoresheet by braces from Luke Lincoln and Jonathan Barnett. 

There was a return to winning ways for Luton Leagrave AFC who claimed a 2-1 win over Caldecote Reserves. An own goal plus a strike from Ravi Jessani were only being replied to once by Adam Legate for the visitors.

Black Swan (Luton) claimed a fourth straight win with a 5-0 home victory over Marston Shelton Rovers Reserves. Levi Yearwood with a brace plus single goals from Ben Smith, Alex Bithrey and Cullum Wilson brought up the nap hand. 

For FC Kokan it was defeat number five on the bounce when losing 4-2 at home against AFC Oakley M&DH Reserves. Bradley Duffet with a brace plus Junior Ivy and Ollie Haylett were on the visitors’ scoresheet against home replies from Nathaniel Barimah and Amer Shabir.

Whilst CS Rovers were the 2-0 home winners over Sundon Park Rovers thanks to goals from Luke Roddy and Connor Darocha. 

The Pines ( Luton ) are seven points clear in Division Three supported by Hy-Pro and are still 100% for the season following their 4-3 home win over Dinamo Flitwick.

Nathan Miller, Ryan Smith, Garry Duncan and Andy McMaster marked the home scoresheet against replies via Charlie O’Mahony twice and Dale Goldie once. S

Second place Real Haynes lost their unbeaten home record when defeated 5-4 by FC Polonia, Patryk Gorczyca with a hat-trick plus goals from Marcin Gorczyca and Pawel Seliga brought up the nap hand against home strikes from Billy Flack, Tyler Winter, Hayden Dormer and Harry Mabbitt. 

Also losing ground on the leaders were third place Shefford Town & Campton A who failed to chalk up their seventh straight win when held to a 2-2 home draw by Thurleigh. Gareth Head and Josh Lummis were on the Town scoresheet against visiting replies from Issac Jones and Alex Horn.

Whilst fifth place Bedford Albion Reserves maintained their unbeaten ways with a 5-1 victory at Wootton Village. Guiseppe Lamberti, Jan Bucur, Aaron Fletcher, Josh Emmerton and Gary Townsend all found the back of the net against a Village own goal in reply. 

The biggest win however went to Flitwick Town A with a 11-0 home win over Real Haynes Reserves. Max Hughes led the way with four goals, Jack Farthing and David Lyons with braces and single goals from Ewan Brown, James Clegg and Nick Wills dishing out the punishment.

Whilst Stevington Reserves are now up to tenth following a 4-1 home victory over yet to win Sandy Reserves. Jamie Daniels with a brace plus single goals for Regan Scott and Colm Mcgirl were replied to once by Lee Hunt for the visitors. 

Elsewhere, there were 4-2 away wins for Lidlington United Reserves and Wixams Wanderers. United took their unbeaten away ways up to five games at Harlington Juniors thanks to a brace from Jamie Rudd plus single goals from Ed James and Carl Pearson against a home brace from Ben Chapman. Whilst the Wanderers, with a hat-trick from Michael France and a goal from Craig Brown, won at Square FC whose two goals were netted by Kevin Beales. 

It's a case of Christmas arriving even earlier than usual in Milton Keynes this week as the new city's theatre hosts a musical spin-off version of the 2009 festive hit film, Nativity!.

So popular was the film with family audiences that its creator and writer Debbie Isett's franchise has spawned three additional offerings, the latest being Nativity Rocks! which opens in cinemas across the country a week on Friday.

Fortunately the original Nativity storyline remains the basis of this enjoyable festive stage musical extravaganza and again it focuses on two different Coventry-based schools putting on their rival Christmas offerings. One school is desperately under-performing and in Ofsted's special measures while the opposing private prep school has a surfeit of high achievers.

I loved the original film and especially the performances of Martin Freeman as failed actor and St Bernadette's hapless schoolteacher Paul Maddens, Jason Watkins as Gordon Shakespeare from the rival Oakmoor establishment and, of course the brilliant Marc Wootton as St B's crazy but loveable teaching assistant Desmond Poppy.

Luckily the same characters all feature in the stage version with the charming Mr Maddens (Scott Garnham) being charged with producing his Catholic Primary School's musical Christmas nativity by stern headmistress Mrs Bevans (Jemma Churchill) for a second successive year.

Having been responsible for the previous offering which got a dismal minus-two stars from creepy theatre critic Patrick Burns (Jamie Chapman), Maddens is offered the help of Mrs Bevans' disruptive but hilarious nephew Mr Poppy (Simon Lipkin) to help out.

With Mr Shakespeare (played by Andy Brady) pooh-poohing anything that St Bernadette's hopeless kids could possibly produce, Mr Maddens was desperate to gain the upper hand against his five-star reviewed rival. So he boasts that his former girlfriend Jennifer Lore (Ashleigh Gray) is now a big-shot Hollywood executive producer and that she is flying in from her home in Los Angeles especially to film his musical-style Nativity play.

However as Mr Maddens hadn't actually spoken to her for years, his lie soon becomes a nightmare after the eccentric and child-like Mr Poppy tells the children that they're all talented stars and that they'll all be in the film, thus fuelling what starts as a silly boast to whole new level.

With every St Bernadette’s pupil and their parents now expecting a part in what Mr Poppy tells them will be a real musical extravaganza, it's all 'Sparkle and Shine' as the city's Mayor offers the schools the ruins of Coventry Cathedral in which to perform their nativity...surely it must be the perfect start to Christmas?

All the favourite sing-a-long songs from the film are included – Nazareth, One Night One Moment and, of course, Sparkle and Shine – while Debbie Isitt has again linked with co-composer Nicky Ager to expand the original six musical numbers to around 20 for this stage production. And once again they've come up with a string of toe-tapping, catchy songs which are sung with gusto by the entire cast and particularly the talented youngsters.

Mr Shakespeare's Oakmoor pupils – who are involved in their school's colourful 'King Herod's Rock Opera' – are made up of youngsters between the ages of nine and 12 years from the Milton Keynes area, namely: Marie Peedle (aged 11), Kuhu Agarwal (9), Darcie Griffiths (10), Caitlin Le Roux (10), Daisy Reynolds (9), Darcy Springall (9), Keanne Skye O’Quinn (10), Adelaide Barham (11), Alesandro-Aurelia Borrelli (10), Regan Parker (9), Layla Waggott (9), Elissa Birkett (11), Tora Doyle (9) and from Sandy, Kaspar Cahill Ritter (11).

Meanwhile Mr Maddens' St Barnadette's children are: Evie Bennell-Low, Demi Delord, Joseph Duffy, Kheiri Issac-Osmani, Betsy Jiggins, Marlie Love, Jasmine McKenna, Joshua Millard-Lloyd, Amy-Louise Mulhall, Aston Sidwell and Nicholas Vakis and both sets of youngsters are superb.

However just as in the film, it's Mr Poppy who steals the limelight as far as the comedy is concerned with Simon Lipkin – who also features in the new film – certainly making the part his own. He has a wonderful way with the children while delivering plenty of great lines and references to other shows, very much in the traditions of a pantomime.

As for Scott Garnham (a dead ringer for Martin Freeman!), he is excellent as Mr Maddens and he travels with two of his pupils to the USA to plead with his former fiancée to help bring his lie to life. I particularly loved Ashleigh Gray's voice and would have liked to have heard more although her duet with Paul Maddens in the moving Suddenly was a real winner.

The clever use of on-stage Christmas present-style boxes were used to good effect while the choreography, courtesy of Andrew Wright, is not too ambitious and the children take it in their stride. Meanwhile it's George Dyer who is responsible for musical supervision and orchestration and, despite having just five musicians in the theatre's pit, they never miss a beat.

I can't help but make mention of Cracker, the cuddliest, cutest, most placid dog imaginable which is handed around the stage by the actors after being given as a present to Jennifer by Mr Maddens just before they split up.

The whole cast received a deserved standing ovation at Wednesday's opening night, the glitzy Nativity! The Musical being the perfect feel-good show for all the family and it could easily replace a pantomime at this time of year.

* Nativity! The Musical plays Milton Keynes Theatre until this Sunday (18 November) with shows at 7pm nightly while there are matinees at 2pm today (Thursday) and again on Saturday. Then on Sunday there are shows at 1pm and again at 5pm. For tickets call the Box Office on 0844 871 7652 (booking fees apply) or online at www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

A relieved Leighton Buzzard dog owner wishes to say a huge thank you to Heath and Reach Vets after they made an emergency trip to rescue her chihuahua.

Melanie Stevens, 57, was driving along Woburn Road on her way back into town when her beloved pooch, Sadie, started crying out in pain.

The worried owner had to pull over, realising that Sadie’s foot had become tightly caught in a car seat cushion thread, and rang Heath and Reach Vets in a panic.

Melanie said: “I was coming off the main roundabout from Woburn Sands [near the A5 Flying Fox] and my little dog was in her car seat and was crying out in absolute distress.

“I was coming down Woburn Road but there was no way I could stop without causing an accident - it’s a 60mph road - so I had to pull over in a layby.

“She was yelping and I realised her back left foot was entwined in several layers of nasty thick cotton from the car seat’s cushion.”

Melanie knew that Heath and Reach Vets was just up the road, and frantically rang them to ask if they could come out. Upon hearing of the pair’s distress, Melanie says a staff member immediately drove along the road to find to them, armed with a pair of cutters, and was able to release Sadie from the snare.

Melanie says she then massaged little Sadie’s foot, which had gone cold, allowing the blood supply to come back.

The thread had come from a tiny hole in the car seat cushion, which Melanie hadn’t spotted.

She added: “I can’t thank the vets enough. It’s just so ironic; I was yards away from their practice when I rang. But you don’t think clearly in a panic. They didn’t want any money - it was on the house - and Sadie is not registered there.

“I cried my heart out, I really did. I was in such a state. I’ve never seen her that distressed even when she’s been poorly.

“I love her so much, which is why I want to say thank you to Heath and Reach Vets from my heart. It could have been a bad outcome had they not have come to her rescue.”

Ruth Brindle takes a short break in the land of ice and fire

My first visit to Iceland was in 2001 during a stopover on my way to Orlando In Florida. At that time my overwhelming image of Keflavik airport was that it was small with few facilities and a freezer full of frozen reindeer meat the most enticing offer in the shop.

Fast forward to 2018 and things couldn’t be more different. This time I was in the country for a long weekend of discovery and things have moved on.

Tourism has boomed and between 2010 and 2017 has increased by an amazing 440 per cent. The American connection is still there as many of the passengers on my WOW Air flight are stopping off before boarding connecting flights to cities all over the States. Also there can’t be many airports where you are assured that even if your plane is delayed on arrival in Iceland, your connecting flight ‘will wait for you’!

Keflavik Airport is still small, but perfectly formed with all the modern facilities – coffee bars, restaurants and shops - that discerning travellers demand.

I was very impressed with the service on our two-hour budget flight with WOW. It was fun, efficient and friendly. I loved the small touches such as the notice for the bell to alert staff which read ‘put a ring on it’ and the sick bag with its Vomit-Meter putting ‘the pilot’s jokes’ at the bottom of vomit-inducing things to ‘our competitors’ prices’ at the top.

We had opted to hire a car and stay in an Air B ‘n’ B apartment 10 minutes’ drive outside the city centre, which proved a good choice as we had a lot of space, a bedroom each, a full kitchen and a big TV. After half an hour’s easy drive from the airport we met our host at the apartment and she quite generously said we could use any food in the house. This proved very valuable indeed as we discovered just how expensive Iceland is. Breakfasts and packed lunches sorted. You have to factor high prices in when planning a visit here but my advice is that it’s worth it.

On our first evening we were keen to see Reykjavik so we took the short drive, helped by our phone sat nav, into the city centre. Parking is sparse, but possible on the streets and in car parks in the capital which feels more like a town in size. Finding places to eat is easy and we opted for a restaurant near the centre. Very nice fish (cod of course) and chips and a burger and chips, no alcohol cost the equivalent of £50. Welcome to Iceland prices.

As it was raining very heavily we opted for an early night before heading out on the tourist trail around the Golden Circle the next day. This is a 147-mile tour of three of Iceland’s most spectacular sights. Of course, there are many organised coach tours to choose from if you don’t want to drive but I would say consider hiring a car. The roads are good, not busy and you have the freedom to stop, admire or visit other places along the way. We used the sat nav on our phones to get around and it was consistently brilliant although it did sound weird hearing all the amazing, complicated Icelandic words pronounced in an English accent.

But whatever mode of transport you choose you will experience so many “wow” moments along the way. As we set out on the road south west of Reykjavik on the ring road we passed changing landscapes of strange black lava expanses, impressive mountains, fields of purple lupins, herds of horses, farmland, clouds of steam rising from thermal fields and the eerie peaks of volcanoes rising in the distance. Truly amazing and awe-inspiring, other-worldly and beautiful.

Our first stop was at Pingvellir the site of Iceland’s first parliament and also where two continental tectonic plates collide. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s easy to see why. This place was used for the national assembly of Iceland between 930AD to 1798. Looking out from the vantage points you can clearly see the cracks and faults caused by the continental drift. You can wander along the biggest – Almannagja – which is canyon-like.

The one downside of this first stop on the route was a plague of tiny flies which we and our fellow tourists struggled with. Those in the know had insect beating nets over their heads!

Next on the list of stops was Geysir a geothermal field where you can watch the spectacular explosions of boiling water and steam and where the earth constantly bubbles.

Yes, it’s a tourist trap but well worth it. The biggest geyser known as Strokkur gives a performance every five to seven minutes sending a spout of water 30 metres in the air so doesn’t disappoint. Another, Blesi, is surrounded by a turquoise pool.

I was impressed by the way tourist visits to these natural wonders are set out by the Icelandic authorities. Even though the route is followed by hundreds of people each day, in cars, coaches and minivans, there’s easy and clear access and plenty of facilities for those who want and need them without being over the top. Those with mobility difficulties can safely enjoy these awesome natural sights too.

Then, having watched several great gushes with obligatory shrieks of delight it was time to go on to Gullfoss waterfall.

This is actually two waterfalls with water tumbling along a gully carved out over thousands of years. The upper waterfall has an 11 metre drop and the second has a spectacular drop of 21 metres. There are various vantage points where you can stand and marvel at the sheer power of the water often crowned with rainbows forming in the mist above. Spectacular. By this stage on the Golden Triangle tour you start to run out of superlatives.

The basic tour can take around five hours, but on a self-drive basis expect to be out all day as you stop multiple times along the way at other stunning locations along the way.

It’s worth mentioning at this point that Iceland in the summer is the land of the midnight sun. This makes the sightseeing opportunities far greater if you have the energy to keep going during seemingly never-ending daylight.

A very worthwhile detour from the Golden Triangle and not too far off the main route is to the village of Fludir, 25 minutes off the ring road. We were totally fascinated to peak into one of the large greenhouses where tomatoes and peppers are grown using heat from geothermal water. And at the Farmer’s Bistro www.farmersbistro.is next door we were treated to some delicious mushroom soup (from their own mushrooms grown indoors) by charming owners Georg and Emma who gave us the history of the farm which also produces other organic vegetables. It was great to meet them. Icelanders are super laid-back and friendly. The men are the embodiment of their Viking past and, a bonus for us, everyone speaks English. But it wasn’t time to leave Fludir yet. After a tiring day of sightseeing we couldn’t wait to dip in the hot (36-40 degree C) natural spring water at The Secret Lagoon in the village. It was magical, soothing and uplifting.

This is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland – created in 1891 – and recently renovated. It also has its own tiny Litli Geysir that can be watched from the pool. Definitely NOT a swimming area. You can even end the evening with some fish and chips. Not to be missed www.secretlagoon.is

Suitably relaxed it was time to head back to Reykjavik. It was late but I couldn’t resist staying up until midnight when it was still light – a strange experience.

On the second full day it was on the road again along the south coast for about two-and-a-half hours to the Solheimajökull glacier. An unmissable stop along the way is to see Seljalandsfoss waterfall with a 60-metre gush of water. Beautiful.

Solheimajökull is easy to find and you can just park up and take a stony but not difficult walk to overlook the tongue of the glacier. It’s quiet and not too busy with tourists and a sight quite unique. Don’t expect pristine white and blue colours, but an awesome ice and black ash monolith a mile wide in parts. It’s free just to stand and stare but you can book walking and climbing tours on the ice at reasonable prices. You are not allowed to go it alone.

The nearby Eyjafjallajökull volcano is the one that erupted in 2010 causing widespread havoc for airlines. Although there has been word that another eruption could happen in the near future, volcanoes and all seismic activity in Iceland is highly monitored, so it is perfectly safe to travel around the area.

As it was my birthday that day we also made for the ominous sounding Black Beach near the village of Vik where puffins nest in the high rock cliffs and dangerous, powerful waves pound the volcanic sand and rock shoreline. Just off the coast you can see the unusually shaped rock arch of the Dyrholaey Peninsula.

The small restaurant beside the beach was the perfect place for a celebration meal. The surroundings were not lavish, more like a café, but the food was sumptuous, including the freshest and most tender cod I’ve ever tasted and a hearty, traditional lamb soup. Washed down with a glass of wine looking out at the wild and Romantic view, however, it was hard to beat.

It was a long drive home, but we’d been rewarded with unforgettable memories.

On the last day it was time for a whistle-stop walking tour of Reykjavik home to around 200,000 people, two thirds of the country’s population. It’s charming, accessible and pretty.

We headed up the hill to the highly distinctive and beautiful Hallgrimskirkja Church. You can get panoramic views from the top of the church tower. We were also lucky enough to be treated to some uplifting music played on the giant pipe organ – 15 metres high – that dominates the interior.

It was a delight to wander around town, browse the small shops and we discover a really interesting flea market down by the old harbour. But even here don’t expect to find a bargain – prices are still high.

Although there wasn’t time on this visit for us you can book whale watching and puffin tours from here. Reykjavik has many and varied museums and the Vikin Maritime Museum is in this area.

The Reykjavik City Card is a must for discounts on entry to many of the city’s attractions and services including city buses, the National Gallery of Iceland, the Photography, Settlement, Art, and Open Air museums, the ferry to Videy Island (home of Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower), the city zoo, family park and the many city thermal pools as well as discounts on restaurants, tours and other attractions. Discovering the history of this amazing place gives you a high level of respect for the Icelanders past and present.

You might be surprised to learn that hot dogs are popular here and Baejarins beztu hot dog stand near the harbour is famous for its lamb hot dogs and popular. Prices range between £2 - £8.

When in Iceland it is highly likely, like us, that you will become quite comfortable and indeed addicted to the idea of a bit of hot bathing. Don’t be put off by the rule of having to shower naked (female and male changing rooms are separate) before you take a dip with swimwear on! Noone here is embarrassed or self-conscious. In the city there are an amazing 18 thermal pools. One local I quizzed recommended Vesturbaejarlaug and Arbaejarlaug but Laugardalslaug is the biggest.

We discovered a free hot spring experience, however, on a geothermal beach just minutes from our accommodation that was brilliant. Nautholsvik was created in 2001 as a health and fitness centre. Some brave souls were cold-water swimming, but when I gingerly waded out into the cold sea I soon found the water at about 12 degrees C too much to stand for long but definitely stimulating. Even our North Sea seems warm by comparison. A quick dip back in the hot water was more soothing.

This was a fitting and refreshing last experience in Iceland and we’ll be back - this place is addictive.

Fact box

The Reykjavik Loves city card for either 24, 48 or 72 hours can be bought from the tourist centre in the City Hall, Reykjavik. Prices between £24.50 to £42. More information about the city, accommodation and tours from http://www.visitreykjavik.is/

How to get there

WOW air flies from London Gatwick to Reykjavik twice daily and from London Stansted daily.

Prices start from just £29.99 one way including taxes (WOW Basic package).

It is Iceland’s ultra-low-cost transatlantic airline offering cheap fares, a modern fleet with

the lowest emissions and the biggest smile flying to 38 destinations across Europe, North America and Canada with Airbus A320 and Airbus A321/A330 models.

For more information or to book, visit www.wowair.co.uk or call 0118 321 8384.

* Pictures by Ruth and Evan Brindle and Ragnar Th/Visit Reykjavik

In October, the Government published 'A connected society: a strategy for tackling loneliness', which builds on the work of the Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness, set up after the tragic death of the MP in 2016.

In October, the Government published 'A connected society: a strategy for tackling loneliness', which builds on the work of the Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness, set up after the tragic death of the MP in 2016.

At the heart of the new strategy is a plan to develop ‘social prescribing’ across the UK. Social prescribing is when GPs and other healthcare workers refer people to services in their community, instead of offering only medicalised solutions. That means people being referred to projects such as community cafés, gardens and art spaces – the kinds of community projects Sussex Community Foundation has been funding since 2006.

Isolation and lack of social contact are shown to be factors in declining health. Parts of Brighton – along with Hastings, Eastbourne, Bexhill, Worthing, Littlehampton and Bognor Regis – all have above average levels of loneliness compared with the rest of England. 41% of Brighton and Hove’s residents live alone which is 10 percent higher than the national average. Social isolation puts people at greater risk of cognitive decline, depression, of falls, use of more medication and increased visits to the doctor. Social networks not only reduce the risk of developing diseases but also help individuals recover when they do fall ill.

One project we fund in Brighton & Hove is Casserole Club, managed by local charity Impetus. The group received an £8,800 grant from the Foundation towards its running costs. The Club asks people who love cooking to cook an extra portion and deliver it to an isolated neighbour. The funding has allowed Impetus to support the existing 42 partnerships on the platform and has allowed them to begin the process of registering and matching 50 of the hundreds of people who expressed an interest in cooking for someone isolated in their neighbourhood.

Many beneficiaries have health conditions which mean they can't go out unassisted. By drawing them to the attention of neighbours, they benefit from the goodwill and company of people whom they would not otherwise meet which, in turn, helps to create more caring communities.

“The most important impact of Casserole Club is that it enables meaningful communication between the isolated person and our volunteer cooks,” says Emma Baars of Impetus. “Often, this relationship develops into helping with gardening and odd jobs, writing and computers, shopping or social activities. 70% of the 1,000 people we work with tell us that isolation is the most difficult aspect of their life.”

There are still plenty of people looking for a cook in their neighbourhood so, if you're interested in cooking for someone isolated, please contact Sean de Podesta at Impetus on 01273 775888.

A Leighton Town supporter who has visited 355 football grounds worldwide is launching an urgent appeal to help find his special stadium hat which disappeared in Milton Keynes.

Jess Cully, 47, of Heath and Reach lost his limited edition black beanie on the morning of Saturday, November 10, at some point between catching the no.150 Arriva bus to Midsummer Boulevard and going to a medical centre on South Fifth Street.

The hat is of tremendous sentimental value to Mr Cully because he is a member of the ‘100 Grounds Club’ and received the beanie in recognition of his visits to over 100 football pitches worldwide.

Mr Cully, an associate member, said: “It has enormous sentimental value for me and not only does it signify my being a groundhopper and member of the club, but I have worn it to countless football matches all over the world and had my photo taken wearing it with several favourite women’s football stars.

“I am an Asperger’s sufferer and genuinely do not feel right or happy attending matches in a boring, anonymous, plain hat.

“After I lost it, I was desperately trying to get hold of my friends on the phone. I really needed someone to talk to, because with my condition, I can’t cope with these emotions.”

Remembering his actions that morning, Mr Cully says he left the bus stop at Midsummer Boulevard and went to the nearby Jurys Inn reception to have a sit down.

He then attended his medical appointment at the InHealth Clinic Diagnostics Centre, South Fifth Street.

He remembers that he definitely didn’t have the hat after he came out of the clinic, however, both Arriva and the Jurys Inn have not found the beanie.

Now, Mr Cully is hoping that someone may have picked it up or seen something.

He said: “Perhaps I put it on the seat of the 150 [bus] on the way to the clinic and forgot to pick it up?

“I just can’t believe it. I’m utterly devastated.

“I have worn the hat in a photo with England and ex Notts County player, Laura Bassett, and England player Amy Turner loved the hat when I had my photo taken with her. She thought it was cool!”

Mr Cully is a big supporter of women’s football and its international tournament, the ‘SheBelieves Cup’.

His favourite stadiums are in America - the Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, with its fried chicken, and whisky and cokes, and the “well designed” Orlando Stadium with its “great view of the pitch”.

He also likes to keep things closer to home, supporting Leighton Town and visiting non-league grounds in England to try out the clubs’ local beers.

He added: “The hat has been with me to grounds in Switzerland, Denmark, Holland and the States. I’ve only had it for about a year and there is a reward on offer.

“If you spot my hat, please pick it up if it’s lying around, or if you already have it I will be eternally grateful if you return it. It means a lot to me.”

The black hat bears the green logo of the groundhoppers’ society the 100 Football Grounds Club.

If anyone has found the hat, please email Mr Cully on sirknight1399@gmail.com or call the newsdesk on 01582 798505.

The Rotary Club of Leighton Linslade and Leighton-Linslade Town Council have confirmed the renewal of their collaboration with the lights and decorations on the town’s Christmas Tree for the next three years.

Dick Johnson OBE of Rotary said, “Rotary work closely with Santa over Christmas. Helping to provide the town with Christmas tree lights is something all Santa’s Rotary helpers feel passionate about.”

Cllr Steve Cotter, chair of Cultural and Economic Services Committee, added: “New lights and decorations this year will bring a fresh look to the dark nights of winter.

“I am particularly pleased and thankful that Rotary is continuing its long-term commitment to the town and again ensuring a warm glow to the Christmas tree.”

Many people are seen taking ‘selfies’ in front of the town’s Christmas tree each year. The council and the LBO would like you to share your pictures. On twitter @LLTCNews and @LBOnews, on Facebook its “Leighton-Linslade Town Council Official” and “Leighton Buzzard Observer”.

Members of the public reporting burglaries to Beds Police will undergo a series of questions in order for call handlers to assess the seriousness of the burglary.

Under the new scheme, burglaries in “hotspot areas” or involving vulnerable victims will be prioritised.

Detective inspector Janine Graham said: “We have introduced this new way of responding to burglary reports to ensure we prioritise our resources based on the wider threat, risk and harm, and also to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in catching offenders.

“We have increased patrols in hotspot areas throughout the county, and are continuing to act swiftly on any intelligence we receive about criminal activity in our communities.”

Beds Police state that all victims will be visited by a scene-of-crime officer to assess any forensic evidence. A community officer will be also assigned to offer advice and reassurance. Victims will be asked to supply any CCTV footage to investigators.

Operation Fidelity is the name the force has given to its burglary response unit.

Bedfordshire Police has also issued the following advice for the public to protect their homes through the dark winter months:

• Use lights at home – use a timer when you are out, so it looks like someone is home

• Secure all house and vehicle doors. If you have a UPVC door, make sure it is double locked

• Keep all valuables and keys safely out of sight from windows, both in your home and car. Close curtains when you have a light on indoors

• Never leave garages or sheds unlocked. Not only can valuable tools be appealing to thieves, they can also be used to force entry to your home

• Don’t hide your keys under a doormat or in a flowerpot – it’s the first place a would-be offender will look

• Ask a friend to keep an eye on your house when you go away, and do the same for neighbours by remaining alert to suspicious activity in your street

• If you spot someone behaving suspiciously, contact police immediately

• Don’t forget to security mark your property and register it on https://www.immobilise.com/

As part of the NSPCC and Bedfordshire Local Safeguarding Boards’ Neglect Matters Campaign, the NSPCC’s Local Campaigns Manager Emma Motherwell talks about teenagers who are neglected – a problem that is often overlooked…

Teenagers. They sometimes get a bad reputation for their lifestyle choices, but a person’s teenage years are their time to increase independence, explore boundaries and take risks as part of normal development towards adulthood.

Because teenagers naturally behave in a certain way, it can lead to their actions being written off as ‘typical teenage behaviour’ or ‘acting out’, and as a result, neglect and other types of abuse are often not recognised as the reason for any unusual behaviour.

Sadly, unlike younger children, it is too often assumed that teenagers have a natural resilience to neglectful parenting, and there is a lack of awareness about how neglect can lead to issues developing as they enter early adulthood.

Teenagers are more likely to be blamed for their own behaviour at a risk of overlooking the factors that may be the root cause and as a result, a neglected teenager may even enter the juvenile justice system rather than the child protection system.

Back in 2015, our Hurting Inside Report revealed that of the 23,037 children reported by the public or referred by the NSPCC helpline, police or children’s services, only 16 per cent of calls were regarding children aged 12 to 18.

Potentially thousands of adolescents may not be receiving the support they need at a crucial time in their lives, and child protection professionals are concerned there may be an underreporting of older children suffering from neglect.

So, how does neglect affect teenagers? Research shows neglected teens are at a much higher risk of a variety of problems that affect their physical and mental health and wellbeing.

For example, they may be more likely to be the victims of dating violence, and neglected teenage girls may be more likely to be physically assaulted. Older neglected boys may also turn to committing minor crimes.

Emotionally neglected teenagers do not express confidence in their future; they have high levels of daily stress, including anxieties relating to school, work, health, and finance. Neglected boys tend to engage more in school, while neglected girls tend to engage less in school.

Compared with similar age groups in the community, neglected teenagers are more likely to experience depression, particularly if they are younger than 15 years old.

They are also more likely to be withdrawn, anxious, depressed, angry, experiencing post-traumatic stress symptoms, or sexual concerns, and some may develop alcohol problems in their early or late teens.

So, what can be done about this problem? A better understanding of teenage neglect may enable teenagers to get appropriate help earlier– and getting help as early as possible gives the best chance of a good outcome for the teenager and their family.

While early recognition and intervention are vital, it is never too late to help a child or teenager. If concerns about possible neglect or emotional abuse arise, take action as soon as possible – regardless of teenager’s age.

Neglect can happen at any age, and it is never the young person’s fault. They shouldn’t have to deal with it alone.

If you’re worried that a young person is being neglected, adults can contact the NSPCC Helpline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0808 800 5000, or email help@nspcc.org.uk.

Young people can contact Childline any time of the day or night on 0800 11 11 or at www.childline.org.

If you’re a young person and you’re worried you might be being neglected, have a look at our neglect guide, which has been developed in collaboration with young people in Luton: http://lutonlscb.org.uk/neglect-matters

More than 1.5 million passengers travelled through London Luton Airport (LLA) in October, marking a 7.9% increase compared to October 2017, making it the airport’s busiest-ever October.

The record growth comes as 36 new routes were launched at LLA during 2018, from easyJet, Ryanair, Wizz Air, SunExpress, Tui and Thomas Cook Airlines. New destinations include Verona, Italy, Tallinn in Estonia and Gibraltar.

Nick Barton, CEO of LLA, said: “This is an exciting time for the airport, as we continue to welcome more passengers and introduce more routes.

“Our transformation will only improve passengers’ journeys, making them easier and more enjoyable.

“We look forward to our passengers, staff and local community feeling the benefits of a busy and successful airport.”

LLA is reaching the end of its three-year transformation process.

The £160 million redevelopment – the largest in the airport’s 80-year history – has ensured that passengers are able to benefit from improved access to the airport, through a new dual carriageway, bus terminal and multi-storey car park

The terminal has also been upgraded, helping to make passengers’ journeys quicker and more comfortable.

Improvements include an expanded security search area, a new boarding pier and a fully renovated departures lounge, which includes more than 30 new high street and luxury stores such as Chanel, Hugo Boss, Oliver Bonas and Rituals.

The redevelopment will increase LLA’s capacity to 18 million passengers per annum, allowing the airport to meet increasing customer demand for air travel.

Universal Credit is going live for new claimants in Leighton Buzzard from Wednesday (November 21) and the town’s Citizens Advice office is bracing itself for an influx of queries from concerned residents.

Tabitha Park, Chief Officer, at Bossard House-based Citizens Advice Leighton Linslade says staff have been undertaking training and preparing for the inevitable challenges and extra work associated with the launch.

Citizens Advive says it agrees with the principle of simplifying benefits but has been concerned by teething problems associated with the roll-out in other parts of the country which has left many claimants in difficulty and hundreds of pounds worse off – despite extra funding in the Budget for Universal Credit.

Nationally, they report that lots of people have had trouble providing the evidence needed and have found the system complex, with 25% of those coming to Citizens Advice spending more than a week attempting to fill in the forms.

It is only new Leighton Buzzard claimants that will be affected from this week. A date is not yet known when existing claimants in the town will be migrated over from housing benefit, child tax credit, income support, income-based jobseeker’s allowance (JSA), income-related employment and support allowance (ESA) and working tax credit.

Although getting prepared for the extra enquiries anticipated with the go live date for new claimants, Citizens Advice Leighton Linslade says once existing claimants start being transferred to the new system it will make an even bigger difference to its workload.

Mrs Park said: “Universal Credit is the biggest-ever change to the benefit system, so it’s important people get support while they get used to it.

“We can help at every stage of the process – from guiding someone through the online application form, to offering budgeting advice and helping people best manage their monthly payment.

“If people have a question about Universal Credit they should get in touch with us at the earliest opportunity so unnecessary delays or complications with their claim can be avoided.”

There are several key features of Universal Credit which claimants will need to be ready for. They will need to:

> prove who they are by producing certain documents

> have a bank account

> show how much rent they pay

> apply online

> talk to their landlord, agent or housing officer to show they are ready for Universal Credit so they understand they will get paid on time

The number of clients seen by the Leighton Buzzard office has remained fairly steady year on year, but the number of issues dealt with is increasing as clients have increasingly complex situations. Top advice areas remaining benefits and debt, with many of the debt issues relating to Council Tax arrears and many benefit issues being around disability benefits.

For advice call 01525 373878 or go to www.leightonlinsladecab.org.uk

Two businesses in LBO land have come away with honours at the East region heats of the UK-wide Rural Business Awards.

Pecks Farm Shop, of Eggington, won Best Rural Retail Business, while The Willow Tree Distilling Company Ltd, of Stanbridge, came runner-up for Best Rural Drink Business.

They were handed their awards at a glittering ceremony held Trinity Park, Ipswich and Pecks Farm Shop will now go on to represent the region at the national final in February 2019.

Pecks Farm Shop was started 15 years ago when it was no longer viable for the family owners to continue milking cows.

They still have a follower herd and deliver milk to the doorsteps of over 20 villages providing a vital service for people in remote areas.

They deliver fruit and veg and anything else to the doorstep, as part of the service! Judges recognised that Pecks Farm Shop is an amazing combination of local fruit and veg, artisan breads, chutneys, jams, delicious cakes, scones, sweeties and English wine and local beer. There’s even a Gin Temple dedicated to local artisan gins.

Partner at Pecks Farm Shop, Fiona Peck, said: “Today, Pecks Farm Shop provides a vital service for people in remote areas, and celebrates local, seasonal food. We are passionate about supporting other local businesses, and so are excited to be a part of the Rural Business Awards, and to have the chance to meet so many excellent businesses from across the region.

“We are honoured to receive the Best Rural Retail Business Award, it is a testament to the hard work of our staff and we can’t wait to celebrate this success with them.”

Willow Tree Distilling Company founder, Mary Vincent, said: “Established in 2016, Willow Tree Distilling is run by a small, but passionate team inspired by nature to bring you a uniquely blended botanical gin. We use a unique combination of 12 botanicals including freshly picked herbs from the family farm.

“Our process of selectively smoking botanicals gives Willow Tree Gin its distinctive flavour. We are thrilled receive this recognition from the Rural Business Awards so early in our journey, and are inspired for the year ahead.”

Now in its fourth year, the Rural Business Awards is the only UK-wide programme dedicated to showcasing the success of rural businesses. It is run in partnership with Amazon.

“Rural communities are home to some of the country’s most inventive and innovative entrepreneurs and we want to celebrate their achievements and contribution through the Rural Business Awards,” said Doug Gurr, UK Country Manager at Amazon. “I’d like to congratulate all the nominees and runners-up at this year’s regional awards and wish the winners the best of luck ahead of the national final of the Rural Business Awards in February.”

The Amazon Rural Business Awards is the brainchild of Leicestershire businesswomen Anna Price and Jemma Clifford, who wanted to showcase the wealth of entrepreneurial talent in rural areas of Britain – a sector of the economy they felt was all-too-often overlooked in favour of large, city-based firms.

The awards are organised by rural business for rural business, with winners in the 13 categories - ranging from Best Rural Start-up and Outstanding Rural Diversification Project; through to Best Rural Professional Services Business and Rural Education or Training Business - decided by an independent panel of judges drawn from the rural business sector, rural public sector agencies, and rural charitable organisations. The East region awards are sponsored by Openreach and Avantigas.

For the first time since launching, this year the Rural Business Awards is hosting a series of regional finals in the North, East, Midlands, South East, South West, Wales and Northern Ireland, throughout October 2018, ahead of the Grand Final next February.

Awards co-founder Jemma Clifford said: “Anna and I are so proud to be hosting the fourth annual Rural Business Awards together with Amazon.

“When we started the awards we wanted to shine a much-needed light on successful rural firms but the success of the RBAs is beyond what we ever imagined. We were blown away with the diversity of our entries this year so winning a prize is an extraordinary achievement – hearty congratulations to both winners from Bedfordshire.”

To find out more, visit www.ruralbusinessawards.co.uk

Firefighters remain at the scene following a barn fire in Pitstone on Saturday.

At 12.53am on Saturday, November 17, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue responded to a barn fire involving 300 tonnes of hay, in Village Road.

Two appliances and crews from Aylesbury, and one from Bedfordshire attended, along with an officer. Firefighters used two ground monitors, one main jet and a thermal imaging camera.

Residents in the area were advised by firefighters to keep their doors and windows closed as smoke was still being produced.

Firefighters remain at the scene today (Monday), undertaking a watching brief.

The difference between the sides ultimately was in front of goal, with United proving far more deadly than Town.

The result keeps Leighton 13th in SSML Premier Division ahead of next week’s trip to 10th place Leverstock Green.

Unlike in recent weeks, Town started the game at Second Meadow brightly, but should have taken the lead after just four minutes but Tom Silford fired straight at keeper Ollie Leslie. They would be made to rue the chance when, two minutes later, United took the lead through Dave Parkinson, after the skipper’s clever footwork cleared him of two Town defenders.

Four minutes later, Biggleswade doubled their advantage when Tariq Andrews found himself unmarked on the edge of the box, neatly finding the top corner out of Charlie Jones’ goal.

Having fallen two goals behind, Town rallied back. Aaron McKee saw an effort saved by Leslie, before the keeper then spilled one into the path of Kyle Faulkner, but his bicycle kick was cleared off the line by a recovering defender.

McKee once again went close shortly before half time, as did Lewis McBride, substitute Kelvin Osei-Addo and then Dom Marsala, but Town failed to make the breakthrough.

United came out purring in the second half though, and should have made it 3-0 when Joe Hawkins’ fine strike clipped the top of the crossbar, and Tony Williams missed a sitter for the home side.

Town continued to huff and puff, but struggled to create as the United defence dug in.

And in the latter stages, United put the final nail in the coffin by adding their third. Having missed earlier, Williams made no mistakes from close range, tapping into the empty net after great play down the right-hand side carved open the Town defence.

It would be a frustrating journey home for Town, having had chances to make an impact on the game, ending in their sixth loss of the season.

The Town Farm Art Show is coming to Cheddington on Friday, November 23.

The three day event is an art and craft show that takes place at the home of a Cheddington-based painter, Christine Bass, and features her local landscapes alongside the work of nine other artists.

The artwork, which is a mix of painting, illustration, printmaking, ceramics, woodturning and embroidery, will be displayed throughout the house and garden, visitors will have the chance to buy presents and chat with the artists and makers.

There will also be mulled wine and home-baked festive treats on offer, donations for these will got to Rennie Grove Hospice Care.

This year’s artists are Christine Bass, Susan Day, Hazel Godfrey, Kirsteen Holuj, Laurie Keck, Denise Purdy, Holly Warnes, Kate Wilkinson, Rosemary Wright and Sophie Bass.

The Town Art Fashion Show is on at 6 Town Farm, Cheddington, near Tring, from 10am till 4pm, on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Whilst beaten, the Buzzards surprised the league leaders with their commitment in defence, an unflagging competitiveness over eighty minutes and the ability to make the most of their limited opportunities.

This was a team effort that all 17 players can be proud of. However, the team spirit was epitomised by the performance of the Harris-Smith brothers, Reece and Andy, who were rivals for the man of the match award.

Paviors kicked off with the benefit of a slight wind. In the early exchanges, Buzzards were put under pressure and an early infringement gave the home side the opportunity to kick to the corner.

The large Paviors pack drove over from the resulting line-out which, with the touchline conversion, gave them a 7-0 lead after only four minutes.

Whilst the Buzzard pack was dominant in the scrum, the home side forwards dominated possession and the Paviors fly-half controlled territory.

It was over 15 minutes before Leighton left their half, thanks to an excellent break by full-back Harri Sayer. Under pressure, the home side infringed and Ollie Taylor slotted home the penalty to make the score 7-3.

However, Paviors are a fine side and the pressure on the Buzzard defence was relentless. It took them almost half-an-hour before they scored their second try, again converted from the touchline – 14-3.

However the home side were finding the Leighton defence difficult to break down – this was emphasised by Paviors choosing to take a penalty rather than attempt for a try to make the lead 17-3.

Unfortunately Buzzards conceded a further converted try right at the end of the half to make the score 24-3 at the break.

Buzzards started the second half with a rare attack in the opposition twenty-two but a lost ball gave Paviors the opportunity to go the whole length of the pitch to score their fourth try.

A further try was scored ten minutes later to make the score 34-3. With twenty-five minutes left, many of the home supporters expected the floodgates to open.

However it was Buzzards who would fight back. Following a good attack, with James Pratt prominent, the ball was spread wide to winger Andy Harris- Smith. He made good ground and, when tackled, passed to brother Reece to dive over.

Eight minutes later, Reece returned the favour – this time the older brother made the break to pass to Andy for him to score. With both difficult conversions missed, Leighton trailed 34-13 with ten minutes left.

There remained time for Paviors to score their sixth try with the last play of the game to leave the score 41-13.

The victory took Paviors back to the top of the table and, whilst they are an excellent side, they knew they had been in a battle.

Whilst Buzzards had no league points to show for their considerable efforts, they know that if they can play with this commitment and spirit their season and results will improve. Next week they welcome Peterborough to Wright’s Meadow.

1 MUSIC
The Kingcats, Royal British Legion, Thrift Road, Heath & Reach, November 24
With a sound taking audiences back to the Sun Studio era, The Kingcats promise favourites by Elvis, Eddie Cochran, Gene Vincent and more – along with various self-penned numbers.
Details: www.rblheath.com

2 CRAFT
Wreath-making workshop, Rushmere Country Park, November 25
It’s that time of year again – and here’s a chance to learn how to make a glorious handmade decoration to welcome visitors to your door.
Details: greensandtrust.org

3 MUSIC
The Big Band at Christmas, Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, November 27
The show features Five Star Swing as seen at London’s Leicester Square Theatre, with Christmas songs given the dynamic big band treatment - from Glenn Miller, Sinatra, Basie, Nat King Cole and more, jazzing up those Jingle Bells.
Details: leightonbuzzardlibrarytheatre.co.uk

4 MUSIC
Lux Musicae London, Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, November 24
The leading early music group present Dowland’s Denmark, exploring the great English lutenist-composer’s life and work in the flourishing musical court of the King of Denmark.
Details: leightonbuzzardlibrarytheatre.co.uk

5 THEATRE
The Comedy About A Bank Robbery, Milton Keynes Theatre, November 20 to 24
Ocean’s Eleven meets the Marx Brothers in this new comedy now in its third year in the West End. Following the sell-out success of their multi-award-winning The Play That Goes Wrong, Mischief Theatre return with their latest hit.
Details: atgtickets.com

6 THEATRE
The Lady Boys of Bangkok, Luton Library Theatre, November 22
The entertainers promise the biggest party in town, with a cheeky and glamorous show celebrating 20 years of touring in the UK.
Details: theladyboysofbangkok.com

7 MUSIC
Whitney - Queen of the Night, Grove Theatre, Dunstable, November 22
Celebrate the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time with this award-winning production.
Details: grovetheatre.co.uk

8 MUSIC
The Sensational 60s Experience, Grove Theatre, Dunstable, November 23
It’s a three-hour extravaganza of pure 1960s nostalgia, with six big names, including Mike Pender, the original voice of The Searchers, Chris Farlowe and Herman’s Hermits.
Details: grovetheatre.co.uk

9 MUSIC
Soul Legends, Grove Theatre, Dunstable, November 24
Jump aboard the soul train as it embarks on a musical journey from its ‘60s origins to the present day, via all the classic ‘70s and ‘80s floor-fillers.
Details: grovetheatre.co.uk

10 THEATRE
Private Peaceful, The Stables, Wavendon, November 25 and 26
Former Children’s Laureate Michael Morpurgo’s story takes to the stage. Private Peaceful relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn.
Details: stables.org

We have teamed up with Aylesbury Waterside Theatre to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a family ticket to this year's Christmas panto Peter Pan.

It’s nearly time to fly to Neverland! Get ready to meet the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily and Tinkerbell, in this year’s swashbuckling family pantomime, Peter Pan at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre from Friday December 7 until Monday December 31.

Full of fun, fairy dust and pirates galore, set sail for a magical adventure take on Captain Hook and prepare for out-of-this-world flying effects, galleons of laughter, and the hungriest of crocodiles!

Starring John Michie (Coronation Street and Holby City), Andy Collins (BBC 3 Counties Radio), La Voix (Britain’s Got Talent) and Holly Atterton (Nick Jnr’s Go.Go.Go!) this festive year’s extravaganza is on sale now, so hook your tickets today! (Suitable for young tinks and those who never want to grow up!)

For your chance to win a Family Ticket for 4 to see Peter Pan at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre on Wednesday December 12 at 5.30pm simply send the correct answer to the following question to damien.lucas@jpimedia.co.uk

Which of the following characters does NOT appear in the Peter Pan panto:

1. Smee

2. Cinderella

3. Mrs Darling

Entries must be sent by midnight on November 30 2018 to damien.lucas@jpimedia.co.uk and be sure to include PETER PAN COMP in the subject header and your full name, address and telephone number in the main email along with your answer.

The winner will be notified shortly after the competition closes.

Good luck!

Police are investigating after a motorcyclist died in a collision involving a car and a motorcycle on the A4146 near Billington, Leighton Buzzard, yesterday (Sunday).

At around 1pm a motorcycle and a Silver Hyundai collided on the eastbound carriageway of the road.

Emergency services attended the incident, but a 66-year-old man from St Albans was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officers from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Roads Policing Unit are investigating the circumstances behind the collision.

Sergeant Peter Scholes said: “It’s always sad when someone loses their life on our roads, and our thoughts are with the victim’s family at this time.

“We are currently piecing together the events leading up to the collision, and would urge anyone with information to contact us.”

If you have any information call Bedfordshire Police on 101, quoting Operation Savannah.

The Leighton Town fan who lost his irreplaceable 100 Grounds stadium hat in Milton Keynes wishes to share the good news that his beloved beanie has been found.

Jess Cully, 47, of Heath and Reach, lost his limited edition hat on the morning of Saturday, November 10, at some point between catching the no.150 Arriva bus to Midsummer Boulevard, Milton Keynes, and going to a medical centre on South Fifth Street.

The hat is of tremendous sentimental value to Mr Cully because he is a member of the ‘100 Grounds Club’ and received the beanie in recognition of his visits to over 100 football pitches worldwide.

However, after the LBO and MK Citizen shared an online appeal, Mr Cully received an email from Arriva on Friday (November 16) to say that someone had handed in a hat.

Mr Cully, an associate member of the 100 Grounds club, visited the Aylesbury depot today (November 19) and confirmed that it was his.

He said: “I’m massively relieved to be honest. One of the passengers had handed it in to the driver.

“I would like to say a massive thank you to the readers who shared my appeal. It is very much appreciated and I wish you all a ‘Merry Christmas’.”

Speaking to the newspapers last week about why his hat is so important, Mr Cully said: “It has enormous sentimental value for me and not only does it signify my being a groundhopper and member of the club, but I have worn it to countless football matches all over the world and had my photo taken wearing it with several favourite women’s football stars.

“I am an Asperger’s sufferer and genuinely do not feel right or happy attending matches in a boring, anonymous, plain hat.

“After I lost it, I was desperately trying to get hold of my friends on the phone. I really needed someone to talk to, because with my condition, I can’t cope with these emotions.”

Mr Cully is a big supporter of women’s football and its international tournament, the ‘SheBelieves Cup’.

His favourite stadiums are in America - the Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, and the Orlando Stadium.

He also likes to keep things closer to home, supporting Leighton Town.