2014 05

Cople

New

s

May 2

014

2

WILLINGTON POST OFFICE & STORES

Telephone: 01234 838240

Newspaper & magazine delivery to Cardington, Cople, Willington and Moggerhanger

Fresh bread and cakes from local bakery and decorated cakes for special occasions.

Fruit & vegetable baskets made up for special

occasions.

Home delivery on purchases over

£10.00

Gas and Electric key charging

Post Office counter for: Banking & Foreign currency

Car tax phone & broadband services Savings, Insurance, Mail

Shop Opening Hours

Monday – Friday 6.30am to 6.00pm Saturday 7.00am to 6.00pm Sunday 8.00am to 12 noon

3

Front cover. Cricket at Cople in 2013 by Claire Boardman

Editor’s Notes

As the magazine went to press last month we were all sent a copy of the proposal to use the land behind Willington Road and Grange Lane as a playing field for the Girls High School in Bedford. I for one am delighted with the idea. The fields have been derelict for about 15 years and this development will remove uncertainty about their future use and give the village an attractive amenity. I can not think of any better neighbours than the Harpur Trust.

The Pantomime at the end of March was a triumph. The enthusiastic and confident cast throw themselves into each performance. The organisers made full use of the Village Hall layout and easily accommodated 100 people at each of the three performances. At present all concerned are resting from the efforts and basking in the glory of their success. Will it be Puss in Boots or Hamlet next year?

Kathy Becker will be moving from the Cople soon . She has been an active supporter of everything that has gone on in the village over the last 10 years. She and John will be sorely missed. I would like to thank her for helping to deliver Cople News over this period. Brenda Bradbury has kindly offered to take over her paper round. I hope that she stays in touch.

The mild winter and early spring have raised spirits and our summer season awaits. Cople Cricket Club will be hoping to do even better than they did last year. We have a Hertfordshire against Bedfordshire match on the playing fields on Sunday 18th May. Details are on page 15. A glass of foaming ale and a comfortable chair is my perfect way spend the afternoon. The sun might even shine.

Julie and Eamonn Dowling are leaving the Five Bells in June. They will be a hard act to follow. I wrote to Greene King to ask what plans they had for the pub. They are currently advertising for a new tenant but have not found anyone suitable at present.

Our neighbours in Moggerhanger are having their annual plant sale in May. This is always well run and a visit is highly recommended. Details are on the back cover.

The Cople Church Fete will take place on Saturday 21st June. It is definitely our turn for a warm sunny day. Read more about the delights in store on page 11.

The 2011 Census has been broken down to parish level and very professional presented by Bedford Borough Council and can been seen in full colour on the village website. I have scoured the internet and with extra data for the Borough produced a table going back to 1801. Although the number houses in Cople has increased since 1981 the population has declined. Read why on page 19.

Don’t miss the annual bird walk with Steve Halton on Saturday 17th May. See his Wild about Cople article for details. Who needs a lie in anyway.

Ged Peeke

4

Churchwardens’ Report 2013

Routine maintenance of the church building and necessary repairs continue to be dealt with as and when required. As always we are most grateful to the Friends for their continued financial support.

The quinquennial inspection by Bruce Deacon the appointed architect was completed in the autumn and a full report submitted. There were no major issues reported and those items requiring prompt attention will be addressed for completion in the spring of 2014.

The annual servicing of the organ and fire extinguishers together with PAT testing took place. A complete survey and tracing of all eighteen electrical circuits took place. This resulted in an accurate schematic being produced in accordance with the most recent regulations regarding identification of circuitry and H and SE requirements. This exercise was also required by our insurers Ecclesiastical.

Our thanks to all of the cleaners and flower arrangers for their dedication and work in keeping the building clean and attractive to the congregation and visitors alike. Out thanks also to David Prior for keeping the clock accurate and to Martin Rogers for flying the flag when required (weather permitting).

We now have a complete band of ringers able to ring for weddings and on other occasions as required.

We had a successful annual inspection by the Archdeacon.

We are most grateful to Judith Howard for letting us have the use of her house during the vacancy for PCC meetings.

The Heritage days April –October have generated a steady stream of visitors both local and from abroad ,mostly with connections either with the church or the village. Numbers are not as we would wish for, however it is still considered worth continuing throughout 2014.

The question of ownership of the Bier House located in the garden of No 1 Willington Road was raised during the year by the solicitors acting on behalf of the late Mr Abrahams beneficiaries. Detailed examination of PCC minutes stored in the public records office failed to produce any proof of ownership by the church nor did the searches carried out at the Diocesan’s office. As a direct result of the church’s inability to challenge ownership it was established in favour of No 1 Willington Road and the land Registry notified accordingly by the vendors’ solicitors.

The heating system was overhauled during 2013 and various elements were replaced. A question remains regarding the scheduling of work to be done, which is being addressed. Three of the external doors were re decorated /treated, the cost of which was borne by the ‘friends ‘.

The churchwardens acknowledge the considerable effort made by all during the vacancy in order to ensure the smooth running of the church and care of its congregation June Shanahan and Mike Vacher

5

Architectural Design

Stephen Funge Architectural Design

Tel 01234 381304. Mob 07710 268372 [email protected]

Stephen Funge MCIAT MAPM

Planning and Building Regulations Applications.

Design and Project Management.

Extensions, New Houses, Offices, Shops.

Call for a chat. No obligation

All Saints Church Churchwardens

June Shanahan Mike Vacher 34 Grange Lane 91 Willington Road Cople Cople Tel: 01234 831705 Tel: 01234 831207 [email protected] [email protected]

From the Registers

Funeral. Rose Brown. 13th March Memorial Service. Gillian Mary Rose. 9th April

Quiz Night

The quiz night once again proved successful and hopefully enjoyable for everyone who came along. (Apologies to those squashed in the corner ) Thanks must go to Rob who devised the quiz and who was our quizmaster for the night. Thanks also to the Debbie, Fran, Jackie and Julia who helped with the organisation and catering. There are still some expenses to be accounted for but at the time of writing it looks like we made in excess of £350. Your support is very much appreciated.

June Shanahan

mailto:[email protected]

7

ACE PEST CONTROL

Fast Efficient Service

Rats, Mice, Fleas, Moles, Wasps, Bird Proofing etc

We offer very competitive rates with normally same day service

Proprietor: Mr J. T. Hillyard Telephone 01234 - 838391

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Cople Village Hall and Playing

Field

Available for Hire for

Private Functions, Children’s Parties,

Weddings, Conferences

and other bookings by arrangement

Hire Charge from £ 9 per hour

Please Contact

Bookings Officer: David Reardon

Telephone : 01234 838987

Cople Village Trust 200 Club

Prize winners for April 2014

1st Prize of £60 209 Judy Prior 2nd Prize of £30 246 no prize awarded (this number could be yours) 3rd Prize of £10 240 no prize awarded (this number could be yours)

COPLE VILLAGE TRUST Reg. No. 1090113

You are invited to attend the

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING of Cople Village Trust

on Wednesday 18 June 2014

in Cople Village Hall at 7.30pm

Found

I have in my possession a very nice pair of ladies red leather gloves that were found in Woodlands Close on the evening of the Safari Supper. If they are yours please call me on 01234 838379

Ged Peeke

9

The Five Bells

Eamonn and Julie will shortly be leaving the Five Bells, we would like to thank all our valued customers for their support and friendship, we have loved our time in this fabulous village and are gutted to be leaving. Our contract finishes on 12th June so our leaving date will be around then. A very special extra thank you to the wonderful staff who have been amazing. We sincerely hope the Five Bells continues to thrive as it is a superb local pub.

We aren`t moving a very long way away and if any of you are passing by Melchbourne (near Sharnbrook) a special warm welcome will be offered you in The St Johns Arms .

Thanks for the memories

Eamonn, Julie, Katie and of course Milly

Are you planning your child’s birthday party?

Cople Village Hall is an ideal venue. Facilities include a large hall with direct access to the Playing Field and Playground.

Special rates available for Cople residents - £25 for up to 3 hours (conditions apply)

Contact David Reardon, 01234 838987, or email

[email protected]

COPLE VILLAGE TRUST (Registered Charity No 1090113)

COPLE PLAYING FIELD

On the boundary of Cople Playing Field there some trees, however there are many gaps - it would be good to have more planted

Cople Village Trust are seeking interest from anyone who would like to -

Plant a tree in memory of a loved one

Would you be prepared to obtain a suitable tree, arrange planting and look after it until it was established?

If you are interested - please contact one of Cople Village Trusts’ Trustees or alternatively phone 01234 831344.

Sandra Thacker Chair of Cople Village Trust

10

Cricket Corner Cople Cricket Club Est.1933

The floods have subsided, the sun is shining and the grass is lush and green; it must be the start of the cricket season.

Chris can be seen most days at the ground, treating the wicket, rolling the square and cutting the outfield that once again will set Cople apart from other club’s with the best wicket in the County.

Good luck to our captains for the new season:-

Saturday Captain: Stuart Harding / Vice Captain: Matthew Abbott Sunday 1st XI Captain: George Gregory / Vice Captain: Robert Draper Sunday 2nd XI Captain: Glen Monk / Vice Captain: John Gibbs Mid-week Captain: Colin Jones / Vice Captain: Peter Cooley

The new season starts the first weekend in May with a full fixture list, including the following matches

Sat, 3 May – home to Upwood 1st XI Sun, 4 May – 1st XI home to Ampthill Town 2nd XI Sun, 5 May – 2nd XI away to Ampthill Town 3rd XI Sat, 10 May – away to Worboys 2nd XI Sun, 11 May – 1st XI home to Flitwick 2nd XI Sun, 11 May – 2nd XI away to Flitwick 3rd XI Sat, 17 May – away to Blunham 2nd XL Sat, 24 May – home to Bharat Sports 1st XI Sun, 25 May – 1st XI away to Caldecote 1st XI Sun, 25 May – 2nd XI home to Offley & Stopsley 1st XI Sun, 1 June – 1st XI home to Langford 1st XI Sun, 1 June – 2nd XI away to Hexton 2nd XI

You can keep up to date with Fixtures & Results, as well as News & Events by checking out our websites below & join us on Facebook by adding Cople Cricket Club as your Friend.

We are delighted to again be hosting a County match at Grange Lane, with a fixture in the Minor Counties Unicorns Knock Out Trophy, as under: 18 May 2014: Bedfordshire CCC v’s Hertfordshire CCC – start at 11.00

Please come along, enjoy the cricket with some refreshments from the Club Bar, and BBQ that will be open all day.

We are pleased to welcome some new faces for the 2014 season, and will be delighted to talk to anyone else who is interested in joining the club, so do not hesitate to call

Visitors will find a warm welcome at the club so why not visit us and enjoy the cricket on our patio with a drink from the Bar.

Kevin Draper Chairman 07730 553455 e-mail [email protected]

http://www.cople.play-cricket.com or http://www.cople.org/cacc


11

Church Fete

Saturday 21st June MAD HATTERS At this years Church Fete you are invited to to wear a MAD HAT of your own making or choosing. A roving Judge will decide the winner of the adults (over 16) section. The Children's section will be judged all- together in the show ring. There will be appropriate prizes for each category and preference will go to home made entries. PIE MAN COMPETITION This year at the Church Fete due to the success of last years Man Bake competition and the evidence of massive talent lurking in Cople's kitchens We have decided to invite the men and boys of the village who fancy their chances as Cople Master Chef to bake a PIE any PIE. Entries should be delivered to the Village Hall on the day, ( before Mid - Day) with the name of the PIE and its Baker. Bragging Rights only will apply plus a Photo of Man and Pie in the next Village News.(competition is open only to amateurs) BRIC-BRAC -NEARLY NEW- TOYS AND GAMES We welcome gifts of the above to be sold at the fete. Please contact Mike and Pat at 91 Willington road 01234 831207 for delivery/collection information. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE AT THE VICARAGE. GRAND DRAW Tickets are now available at £1 each. This has got to be the bargain of the year with a top prize of £100 and a host of other great prizes. For information regarding availability or a chance to sell some, which would be most welcome, contact June Shanahan on 01234831705. BOOKS and CHINA We welcome donations of BOOKS CD'S DVD'S and China for Sale at the FETE. Contact Mike on 01234 831207 June on 831705 if you can help. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE AT THE VICARAGE. Thanks Mike Vacher

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Mothers Union

At our meeting in April, members brought along their favourite book to discuss, then each member read an extract from their chosen book or poem. Afterwards, Pat was thanked for her hospitality and refreshments.

0n the 25 March, members joined other branches in the Deanery at the Lady Day service held in Potton Church and led by the Deanery Chaplain. The branch banners were displayed and there was a bring and buy stall to raise funds for the Deanery.

A report was given by the Deanery Chairman on the Yarlswood project in which 2 suitcases were purchased and taken to the Diocesan Sharing Day in March, and these, with other cases collected from other deaneries, will be taken to Yarlswood.

Our next meeting will be on the 12 May at 2:30pm when our host will be Gwynneth Akins. Gwynneth will be giving a talk and this will be followed by a cream tea. The venue for this meeting will be decided nearer the time.

Liz Buck

Prayer Thank you Lord for this new day. I return it to you with the plans I have made, the jobs that have to be done, and all the problems f cannot anticipate.

Please Lord Jesus, give me strength when tired, wisdom when confused and uncertain, patience when angry or frustrated.

Lord, in the busyness of the day, help me in quiet confidence to know that you are God. Amen

(MU The Prayers We Breathe)

Mrs Gladys Ellis

I feel sure that some residents of Cople will remember Gladys and Gordon Ellis who ran “The Stores” in Grange Lane from 1952 to 1968. I am sorry to say Mrs Ellis passed away peacefully following a major stroke in Hertford Hospital at 6:30 am on Thursday 17th April. She was 88.

Following their retirement Gladys and Gordon made their home in Bronllys near Brecon (Wales). They spent many happy years tending their garden and travelling all over Wales. This travelling came to an end when Gordon died following a cancer operation in 1992.

They both took an active part in village life and made many good friends.

Ann Parker (Ann Bennett)

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Friendly advice available Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat, 10 am – 6 pm,

Please phone: 01234 831058

Photos, Prints, Textiles, Objects,

Embroideries, Canvases, Mirrors,

original art on paper or board,

laminating.

Framing from budget to

conservation standard.

Large choice of mountboard,

glass and frames, including

hand-finished frames.

15

Cople Cricket Club is pleased to be hosting another fixture on behalf of Bedfordshire County Cricket Club

Sunday, 18 May 2014 Minor Counties Championship – Unicorns Knock Out Trophy

Bedfordshire CCC 1st

X1 v Hertfordshire CCC 1st

X1 Venue Cople CC, Grange Lane, Cople

Match commences at 11.00 a.m.

We are delighted to have the opportunity of showcasing our excellent wicket and facilities for what is expected to be an exciting match Why not come along and enjoy the cricket with refreshments from our

Bar and also the BBQ which will be operating throughout the day

[email protected]

17

HORSE OWNERS

BORED WITH HACKING? FANCY DOING SOMETHING NEW?

WANT TO HAVE SOME FUN WITH YOUR HORSE? WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR HORSE’S MANNERS?

THEN

WHY NOT HAVE A LOOK AT NATURAL

HORSEMANSHIP?

£15 p/h

Call Heather on 01767 627161 [email protected]

18

Police Update

Between the 25th and 26th March a theft of an old metal post box which was from a private residential location was stolen from the front garden. If you saw of have heard anything in relation to this please contact Bedfordshire Police on 101. There has been a rise in thefts of metal in the North Villages of Bedfordshire so please ensure you remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity on 101. Paul Jones PCSO 4760 Local Policing Communities

Cople Sports and Social Club

Spring has arrived and we have sunshine, football season is closed but cricket season is about to begin. Our first official cricket game is to be held on 4th May so come along and support your local cricket team and enjoy a drink or ice cream at CS&SC.

We held a pancake tossing competition in March which proved quite competitive the winner was a close call. We are proud to say that we have the first CS&SC pancake tossing champion and this is held by Fiona.

We will be holding a family games and BBQ evening Friday 30th May. There is a regular email sent out to all members in regard of what sports events will be shown and up and coming events. If you wish to become a member please enquire on details below or visit us at CS&SC.

Jeanette Skipsey Telephone: 01234 831473 Mobile: 07749 272249 Email: [email protected]

19

The 2011 Census

Cople’s population continues 30 year decline The 2001 and 2011 census breakdowns for Cople can be seen in full detail on the village website. The 2011 results have been beautifully presented. Mr Philip Green is responsible for statistics at Bedford Borough Council and he helped with some of the numbers in the attached table. His analysis of population trends is also most informative. My table lists the number of houses and this number is greater than the number of households because some properties are vacant.

The reason that Cople’s population has changed little since 1961, despite the additional housing, is that the average number of people per household in England has declined dramatically. Across the Borough there were in the region of 3.3 persons per household in 1951 and this declined to 2.4 in 2001. Interestingly, it remained stable from 2001-2011 reflecting the economic downturn, younger people staying at home longer, higher birth rates, higher life expectancy, etc.

As a result, additional housing has been needed just to maintain a Parish’s population, and those Parishes which have not experienced any new residential development have seen their populations fall. In 1981 Cople’s population was 810 spread over 288 households – an average of 2.81 people per household. In 2011 the population was 722 spread over 323 households – an average of only 2.24 people per household. That’s quite a decline – though the general decline in average household size appears to have been arrested and it is likely to be stable in coming years – at least for the next 5 years.

Cople has an older age profile than the Borough with a high proportion of residents aged 40—64 and 20% aged over 65. A quarter of all households are pensioners and non-white residents form 6% of the population. There is a high proportion of one person households (28%) and home ownership at 76% is high. Employment as managers, directors and professional occupations at 41% is very high. Another 13% are self employed, 10% work from home and 11% work in skilled trades.

Ged Peeke

Year No of Houses

Population

1801 403

1811 442

1821 524

1831 107 643

1841 104 551

1851 114 552

1881 98 459

1891 96 424

1901 96 377

1911 377

1921 100 403

1931 115 405

1951 154 479

1961 218 687

1971 655

1981 300 810

1991 311 744

2001 323 736

2011 335 722

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COMPOST AND MORE

HOME AND GARDEN PRODUCTS

www.compostandmore.co.uk

Free next day delivery in Bedfordshire on orders over £40.00.

Dumpy bag of soft wood logs £60.00. Dumpy bag of hard wood logs £75.00.

Kindling from £1.50 per bag. Soft wood logs 5 nets for £10.00. Hard wood logs 3 nets for £11.00.

www.compostandmore.co.uk

[email protected]

01234838755

07707198022

FOR THE GARDEN 6- 50L bags of organic compost £10.00

3- 70L bags of bark chippings £10.00

70L play bark £5.99 a bag

Mini digger and skip loader hire also available.

Heidi Robinson

9 Bedford Road Cople

MK44 3TP

22

Need a Handyman?

Can your man? thismancan.co.uk

Dave Crawford

Handyman /Property Maintenance in Bedford and local villages. Contact me for a free no obligation quote.

Over 25 years experience of Handyman work and Property Renovation.

Fully insured (details on website)

Dave Crawford tackles most jobs from changing a tap washer to jobs that fall short of the remit of a full blown Builder,

Plumber or Electrician.

07981 881688 [email protected] or check the website for further

information: www.thismancan.co.uk

Rejuvinating Hatha Yoga classes which include creative flowing sequences, in-depth posture work

and space for reflection and relaxation

Sundays 10 – 11.15 a.m. Cardington Village Hall, Southill Road, Cardington

ALSO Monday and Wednesday evenings and Friday mornings in Bedford

£6/class (£5 conc)

Contact: Jen

Tel: 01234 210970

Text/phone: 07849 158 850

[email protected]

YOGA

CHIMNEY SWEEP JULIAN BIGGS

Member of the Institute of Chimney Sweeps.

Fully qualified and insured. All types of chimneys swept

Brush and vacuum. Clean and tidy service

Chimney Safety Certificate. Local, professional and reliable

Competitive rates.

Tel: 01767 627591 / 07950 705479 Northill, Bedfordshire


http://www.thismancan.co.uk

24

May Diary

Thursday 1st (Green Bin)

10:00am to 11:30 Baby and Toddler Group Village Hall

Friday 2nd

10:00am Yoga Class Village Hall

Monday 5th Bank Holiday

11:00am Tiny tots sing along Cople Church

Tuesday 6th

10:00am to 12:00 Coffee morning Village Hall

7:30pm Bell Ringing Cople Church

Wednesday 7th

7:30pm to 10:00 Carpet Bowls Village Hall

Thursday 8th (Orange Bin)


Friday 9th


Cople Carpet Bowls Club

Have you ever thought of playing bowls. If so why not come along and join in a game of carpet bowls which is played indoors on a 30 ft carpet in Cople Village Hall on Wednesday evenings 7:30 to 10:00 pm Any enquir-ies contact Pauline on 01234 838102.

Pauline Baynes.

May Church Services at Cople All Saints

4th 11:15am Family Service

11th 09:45am 6:00pm

Sunday School Songs of Praise Bishop Richard

18th 0945am 11:15am

Sunday School All age Communion

25th

09:45am 11:15am

Sunday School Sung Communion.

11th May Benefice service will be held in Willington at 11:00am

25

Monday 12th


2:30pm Mothers Union TBN

6:15pm Junior Choir Cople Church

7:00pm Senior Choir Cople Church

Tuesday 13th

2:30pm Over 60s Club Sports and Social

7:30pm Tuesday Club. “Safety in the Home” a talk by David and Karen Robinson of Locked and Secure

Village Hall


Wednesday 14th


Thursday 15th (Green Bin)


Friday 16th


10:00am to 1:00pm Moggerhanger Plant Sale Coffee Morning

See back cover

Saturday 17th

7:00am Annual Bird Walk with Steve Halton followed by break-fast in the Five Bells. See Wild about Cople.

Meet at the Church

10:00am to 4:00pm Moggerhanger Plant Sale Ploughman’s Lunches

See back cover

Sunday 18th

1:00pm to 4:00pm Moggerhanger Plant Sale Cream Teas

See back cover

From 11:00am Beds v Herts Cricket Match Cople Playing Field

Mobile Library for May

Wednesday

10:00 to 10:20am All Saints Road 10:25 to 10:45am Water End 10:50 to 11:10am Outside Five Bells

26

Monday 19th


12:30pm Luncheon Club Cople Church

6:15pm Junior Choir Cople Church

7:00pm Benefice Choir Cople Church

7:30pm Annual Parish Council Meeting followed by Ordinary Meeting

Village Hall

Tuesday 20th



Wednesday 21st


Thursday 22nd (Orange Bin)


Friday 23rd


Monday 26th Bank Holiday


Tuesday 27th


2:30pm Over 60s Club Sports and Social


Wednesday 28th


Thursday 29th (Green Bin)


Friday 30th


Evening Family Games and BBQ Sports and Social

Saturday 31st

10:00am to 12:30pm Heritage Day Cople Church

27

Tuesday Club

April was an open meeting, and we hope our visitors enjoyed our talk. Tom Perrett from Bedford Museum gave us an interesting insight to the newly refurbished museum which re opened to the public June 2013. The original building was castle brewery run by the Higgins Family, but it was Cecil Higgins who had a great interest in arts, whose collection and much of his money was used to set up the museum. Cecil’s main interest was eighteenth century porcelain and glass. We were shown slides of some of the best examples held at the museum. Cecil left a trust fund for further collections. The museum has a collection of watercolours by English artist, displayed in rotation, some fine William Burgess painted furniture and wine decanter, the best collection in the country. A collection of local artefacts, exhibitions of past and present local industries and businesses. The redevelopment of the museum has allowed the museum to re-evaluate and find more about the history of many objects. The building was totally gutted and the five building merged together, with just one entrance. New mounts have been made to display the many objects. Tom certainly gave us new enthusiasm to visit this gem on our doorstep. The museum offers something for everyone, I will certainly be visiting soon and looking for the tiny early teapot we were told about. Our next meeting is on May 13, when we will have a talk about Safety in the Home. Lots of ideas of how we can make our homes more secure. Jane Peeke

Nearly New Centre

Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm & Saturday 10am to 1pm

At Sue Ryder Palliative Care Home St. John’s Moggerhanger

28

Cinderella - Cople Players - Panto Update

The Cople Players performed the first ever panto in Cople on 28th and 29th March. We all had a lot of fun putting this production together and judging from some of the feedback we have received, a few people enjoyed watching it too. To date, we appear to have made well over £2,000 for our chosen charities and I will provide a further update on this once the accounts have been finalised.

The performance was followed by our very own awards ceremony in The Five Bells and the excitement continued once the all important reviews started to come in! Thanks to Julie Dowling for helping put our wrap party together. I would like to pay a very special thanks to all who took part in making this a success and include below some of the awards which were given. Many thanks to Miles Tetley for the very funny dialogue:

Best prestidigitation with a wand - Stephen Wheatley Best actor in a foreign language - Graham Ebbs Most inconspicuous actor in a cross dressing role - Katie Dowling Most embarrassing wardrobe malfunction - Barry Wells Most inspiring romance - Baron and Devilia Hardup (David Hughes and Brenda Bradbury) Best in Breed - Charlie Porter Best choreography in a musical number - the chorus Best actress in a female role - Catherine Russell Best actor in a male role - Quentin Dawson The biggest diva, prima donna or drama queen in the village - Martin Rogers Best direction of many people on a tiny stage - Miles Tetley

Additional thanks go to Ian Whiting for the wonderful photos he took for us, I believe some of them are now on the Cople website; The Friends of Cople Church for tickets, programme selling, the bar, decorating the hall and tidying up afterwards so that we could go to the pub; Pam and Mick Gosbee; Trevor and Lorraine Knights, Jackie and Alice Benbow and Nathan Sargeant for producing wonderful scenery, props and costumes; Miles Tetley who wrote our programmes, 'Coplised' our script and kept everyone in order; Graham Ebbs and Stephen Wheatley for fantastic music; lighting and sound effects; Ged Peeke for the professionalism of our printed programmes and all of you who came to see it.

The chorus have asked me to point out that they are available for weddings, christenings and bar mitzvahs at a special rate to Cople residents. Well done to Fran, Claire, Heather, Janice and Karen for adding the Pan's People touch!

The final word has to come from our own Cople magazine who gave this touching review: "Cople is blessed with many talented performers who showcase their skills in the music festival, evenings in the pub and charity events in the area. The performance of Cinderella in the village hall throws up an important question, 'Why didn't any of them want to be involved in the pantomime?'" ..... maybe next time .

Julia Moore

29

B. W. Taylor Plumbing Roofing and all Building

Maintenance

From “Complete Bathrooms and Kitchens” including tiling and plastering through to “Ball Valves and “Garden Taps”

No Job too small Local Reliable service at Reasonable Rates

References Supplied if Required

Telephone: Barrie Taylor 01234 - 838 676 Mobile 07979 - 928 186

Cople News

Editor : Ged Peeke 39 Willington Road, Cople, Beds, MK44 3TH

Tel 01234 838379 Email: [email protected]

Deadline for copy and advertising 15th of every month

Advertising Rates Annual Charges. Full Page £96. Half Page £48

Delivered free to every home in Cople every month Circulation 360 copies

COPLE LOWER SCHOOL CLERK TO THE GOVERNING BODY

6-7 meetings per year, meetings two hours, Plus hours for additional paperwork/governor support

Cople Lower School’s clerk has decided she wishes to step down. As a result our lovely, small, village school requires a new clerk.

They will: Provide advice to the governing body on governance, constitutional and procedural matters. Provide effective administrative support to the governing body and committees. Ensure the governing body is properly constituted Manage information effectively. Support governors in their duty and assist induction Full support and training will be offered to the right candidate

For further details and an application pack please contact Helen Johnson/Lynda Bishopp on 01234 838827 or e mail: [email protected];

Closing date: Friday 9th May Interview date: Monday 14th May


30

Gardening in May As I write this, it is mid-April and without any warning from recent weather or those sooth-sayers that ‘predict’ the elements, there is frost on the ground! As all manner of plants including pelargonium, cranesbill, roses, even nemesias, have continued to flower throughout this year unchecked by the normal spell of frosts, many of us might have our beloved plants were safe for another year. Be warned – the threat of frosts is still there and well worth being aware of for at least one more month. ‘Don’t cast a clout ‘til May is out’ is sage advice and it is sensible to delay packing away your fleece, bubble wrap and whatever else you may use to protect your plants. Another warning comes from Central Bedfordshire council who are warning residents of ‘Rogue Traders’. That is, the increase in bogus tradesmen and women purporting to be reputable, qualified and experienced. As far as gardening and horticulture is concerned, there are many qualifications that demonstrate a person’s credibility and these include City & Guilds. I myself, studied three City & Guilds courses over four years at the Hertfordshire College of Agriculture and Horticulture, known to many as ‘Oaklands’ and along with Shuttleworth College remain preeminent in this area. There are of course others and when choosing any tradesperson, it is advisable to check their certificates. Similarly, ask for references and permission to phone satisfied clients. Central Bedfordshire’s advice is simple: if you suspect any rogue traders operating in your area, telephone Consumer Direct and Trading Standards on 08454 04 05 06. Jobs to do in the garden this month include: Ornamental grasses should be cut back hard to a couple of inches so that new growth can grow unrestricted. Never pull grasses including bamboo with one hand while holding open secateurs in the other as you run the risk of stabbing yourself! If you haven’t already started, lawns can and should be cut, although in most cases, not quite as short as your final cut last year. If you have bulbs growing in lawns, deadhead when flowers fade and leave the foliage to die back naturally – 8 weeks is normally sufficient and then you just blitz with the mower! Before then, just mow around. Many plants including roses will be growing like topsy this month and so tie in. My normal advice here is, it is better to tie in a little too early rather than a little too late and I also like to paint the stakes green so as to blend into the background. The answer to last month’s just for fun question is, the botanical names for the plants known as Granny Bonnets are Aquilegias or Columbine. This month’s question is, what is fusarium patch? (And no George Buck, it is not a Greyhound!!!). As usual, please contact me with any gardening tasks or queries you may have, [email protected] or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855. Lawn Doctor


31

Lawn Doctor Garden Services Clearance, Redesign, Maintenance

Tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855

Email: [email protected]

Tree Care, Planting, Weeding, Hedge Trimming, Turfing, Jungle Clearing, Landscaping,

Lawn Improvement, Patio/Drive Pressure Washing/Weedkilling, Holiday Watering etc., etc.

Qualified

3 x City & Guilds Qualified & Widely Experienced – References Available Upon

Request

‘Lawn Doctor deserve a medal. They are worth their weight in gold and I,

without doubt, will be using them in the future. A true gem.

Thank you Lawn Doctor, you have given me my garden back’, Ms N.Patadia, Mill Hill


32

B. WELLS PLUMBING &

HEATING LTD

01234 831314 [email protected]

www.barrywells-plumbing.co.uk

"professional by choice, helpful by nature, knowledgeable by

experience"

All plumbing and heating works carried out to

very high standards

We specialise in the design and installation of

new or replacement Oil and gas boilers

and heating systems

LPG registered installations

All renewable energy systems installed including solar thermal and pv panels

Heat pumps and rain water harvesting

Bathroom design and installation

5 and 7 year parts and labour guarantees on certain boilers

Service and maintenance contracts

Minor building works

From ballvalve to bathroom, radiator to boiler we have the experience, knowledge and expertise to meet all

your requirements.

Contact Barry on 07831 377351


http://www.barrywells-plumbing.co.uk/

34

Wild about Cople With the advent of spring (I saw the first swallow in the village today, 9th April) our countryside and gardens are buzzing with life. And with the emergence of so much life and activity some of the most obvious of all are the Hymenoptera; the ants, bees and wasps etc. The bees are particularly noticeable in early spring – especially the large, furry, queen bumblebees which emerge early from hibernation and are often seen as they fly around gardens and enter houses on their search for a suitable dark hole in which to make a nest and start a breeding colony. Meanwhile, many of the other species of bees; the solitary bees, the leafcutter bees, and our social, honeybees are slightly less conspicuous but they all have one thing in common – many of them are declining in numbers, distribution and are under threat from a variety of sources. And therein lies the problem, because these small, industrious creatures perform a hugely important role in the running of this planet and without them much of life would simply cease to exist or become very difficult to maintain. Social bees such as honeybees and bumblebees are part of a huge army of insects which act as pollinators of most of our fruit and vegetables and honeybees account of 80% of all insect pollination. So, no bees mean fewer apples, pears, strawberries and tomatoes, for instance. The decline in the population of bees will have serious consequences on our future food supplies. Also, of course bees provide us (and themselves) with other services such as honey (which is collected from flowering trees and-plants as nectar) and is turned into honey which the bees then use as a food supply – nectar is one of the richest and purest natural foods that exists and honeybees collect an average of 66lbs of pollen per year, per hive. In addition, bees are struggling due to a range of external problems, many of which are caused by us. Urbanisation and extensive building in the countryside is wiping out many flower-rich meadows and replacing them with sterile, closely-mown dull grass and tarmac; various diseases are affecting populations and one of the greatest threats is the use of harmful chemicals and sprays (both in gardens and on farmland) which are wiping out useful flowering plants or directly affecting the bees themselves. Another threat is the Varroa mite which is a parasitic mite which can devastate honeybee colonies and can be found in almost every apiary in Europe – it is probably the major challenge facing bees and bee keeping today. With all these problems facing bees it’s no wonder they are facing some big challenges so, what can we do to help them? There is, in fact, quite a lot we can do to help our honeybees, bumblebees, solitary bees and other pollinating insects (and, of course, ourselves and our children). Here are some ideas listed below:

35

One of the easiest and obvious ways is to plant our gardens with lots of bee-friendly (preferably native, flowers and trees). Species such as; Pussy willow, all flowering fruit trees, Hawthorn, Buddleia, Rosemary, Lavender, Philadelphias, Potentillas, Clematis, Cranesbills, Mallows, Sedums, Poppies, Salvias, Cosmos, Violets, Mallows, Alliums, Cherries, Cherry plum, Blackthorn, Horse chestnut, Hazel, Geraniums, Scabious, Foxglove, Quince, Lime, Choisya, Flowering currant, Dog rose, Viburnum, Ceanothus, Cistus, Fuchsia, Hebe, Honeysuckle, Potentilla, Snowberries, Gorse, Ivy and Mahonia. There are many, many more species that can be planted. It is important to remember that many of the fancy ‘double-bloomed’ flowers available in garden centres produce little or no pollen or make it too difficult for the bees to get to the stamens – so these are next to worthless to bees. Always try to use simple, single-flowered plants such as native wildflowers or traditional ‘cottage garden’ flowers. Try to avoid using, whenever possible, chemical sprays and treatments in the garden; they’re not good for the environment in general and some are highly toxic to bees. Anything listed as ‘harmful’, ‘dangerous’, ‘toxic’ or ‘high risk to bees’ should really not be being used. After all, remembering that every one in three mouthfuls of food that we eat is dependent on pollination is a sobering thought. Check out the British Beekeepers Association website for more information – www.bbka.org.uk. And to take part in the ‘BeeWalk’ survey to help record bumblebee numbers go to the Bumblebee Conservation Trust website – www.bumblebeeconservation.org A good book to help you identify bumblebees is: ‘Field Guide to the Bumblebees of Great Britain and Ireland’ by Mike Edwards and Martin Jenner, published by Ocelli Limited. Finally, the annual Cople Bird Walk will be held on Saturday 17th May. Meet me outside the church at 7.00am. Julie and Eamonn have kindly offered to do us a cooked breakfast in the Five Bells afterwards at 8.15am for £5.50 each. Please let me know if you would like breakfast so I can let the pub know total numbers. Many thanks Steve Halton [email protected]

http://www.bbka.org.uk

http://www.bumblebeeconservation.org


37

Tracy Herrick 76 Willington Rd. Cople 01234 831079

38

HOLISTIC THERAPIST & BODY WORKER

Suzanne Edgington CNM (Dip), L.C.M. Dip, AOSM Dip, B.S.Y.A.( Ad.Arom), L.C.M.IH Dip, LSSM (Dip), CTLLS,

CST II, SERI,SERII

SPORTS MASSAGE CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY,

ACUPUNCTURE, NUTRITION, and More…

For Acute & Chronic conditions:

Muscular problems, Injuries, Stress, Headaches, Anxiety etc.

Individually tailored treatments Helping you to move on and live life!

01234 870 236 / 07802 864 275

Email: [email protected] www.suzanneedgington.co.uk


http://www.suzanneedgington.co.uk/

39

C.R.WILKINSON & SON

PROFESSIONAL TREE SURGEON

ESTABLISHED OVER 12 YEARS

FULLY QUALIFIED & INSURED

FELLING HEDGE TRIMMING

CROWN REDUCTIONS STUMP REMOVAL

DEAD WOODING WOODCHIP AVAILABLE

THINNING LOGS AVAILABLE

ALL EMERGENCY WORK CARRIED OUT

CHURCH END NURSERIES, WILLINGTON, BEDS. MK443PX

PLEASE CONTACTJAMES ON

LANDLINE 01234 838274

MOBILE 07773 077042

EMAIL: [email protected]

FREE QUOTATION


40

Willingtots Pre-school Peace Memorial Hall

Church Road Willington

Telephone 07972 148085

E-mail [email protected] Website www.willingtots.co.uk

Fundraising www.buy.at/willingtots

Sessional care for children aged 2 to school age during term time

FREE PLACES for eligible 3 and 4 yr olds

09.15-12.15 Monday to Friday (Hourly rate £3:25 or £9.75 per session)

Lunch Club daily 12.15-13.15 (£3.25)

Registered Charity No. 1035672 Member of the Pre-school Learning Alliance and registered with OFSTED

“We are totally committed to safeguarding children”

37, Ridge Road Kempston, Beds MK43 9BS

41

Cople Baby & Toddler Group

Has opened its doors again

Every Thursday (Inclusive of school holidays)

10.00am-11.30am At the Cople Village Hall (off Grange Lane)

First session free, £2 per family thereafter Adults with one child under 7 months £1

42

Sally’s Tax Corner I do hope you all had a good Easter and enjoyed the sunshine that we have seen lately. I am going to talk to day about tax free investments. Generally these are investments that are free of tax, so any income earned from them is tax free and any lump sum gain from them is tax free. Firstly, I will deal with tax free income. Rent a room allowance – you can rent out a room in your house and make £4,250 per year completely free of tax. Gambling, Premium Bonds & lottery winnings are free of tax Interest received from ISA accounts Interest received from National Savings Certificates And this year, the first £10,000 of earned income Secondly you can invest in various tax free or tax efficient products to get more of your money outside the scope of tax Premium Bonds – (Although your capital sum will not grow – max is £30k) ISA savings accounts – cash and stocks and shares. See limits below – they are going up. There are junior ISAs for your children as well. National savings certificate accounts. As we all work hard for our money it is good tax planning to get as much of it as possible outside the scope of tax so that it never becomes taxable again. Tax fact ISA Limits for the 14/15 tax year Limits to 30/06/2014 Cash ISA - £5,940 Cash and Shares ISA - £11,880 Junior ISA and Child Trust Fund (CTF) - £3,840 ISA Limits from 01/07/2014 New ISA - £15,000 Junior ISA and CTF - £4,000 I hope you find this helpful this month, please do get in touch with any questions. Sally Cobban FCCA SJ Tax Limited

43

SJ TAX & ACCOUNTING

Professional Friendly Free initial consultation.

Sole traders, Ltd companies, Start ups, CIS, VAT, TAX

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 01234 831997 Mob: 07899 808592

QUALIFIED ACCOUNTANT


46

Village Hall Bookings: David Reardon 01234 838987

Over 60's Club Secretary : Hazel Shreeves Tel : 838817

Mothers Union Contact: Jill Ebbs Tel : 838659

Cople Lower School Headteacher : Helen Johnson Tel : 838827

Cople Village Trust Chair : Sandra Thacker Tel : 831344

Royal British Legion Chair: Max McMurdo Tel: 01767 680624 Welfare: David Hansen Tel : 01767 226020

Police PC Paul Jones Riseley Police Station Tel : 01234 - 842864

Carpet Bowls Secretary : Pauline Baynes Tel : 838102

Willingtots Pre-School Group Tel: 07972– 148085

Before & After School Club At Cople Lower School Tel: 07592 - 012249

Brownies (Willington) Amanda Briscoe, Tel: 07504 299994

Beavers, Cubs & Scouts Contact Emma Whiterod Tel: 07908 167356

Friends of Cople Church Chair: Vaughan Southgate Tel: 838714

Cople Sports & Social Club Chair: David Hughes Tel : 838669

Tuesday Club Joy Duthie Tel : 838407

Cricket Cople Argus Cricket Club Chris Gregory 01234 838396

Biggleswade Chronicle Village Correspondent: Jill Ebbs Tel: 838659

Cople Web Site Ian Whiting Tel : 838347 Email: [email protected] Web Site :www.cople.org.uk

Cople Baby and Toddler Contact Kylie Dougall Tel: 01234 740745 07999 257165

Just Ask Wendy Worgan 0800 039 1234

Cople Parish Council Clerk to the Council: Jeanne Pope 42 Wingfield Road, Bromham, Beds. MK43 8JY Tel: 01234 823 297 [email protected]

Yoga Classes Freda 01767 627611

Pilates Classes Julie Crawford www.forwardfitness.co.uk Mobile 0794 6067266

Village Contacts

http://www.forwardfitness.co.uk/

47

GroundcareMachinery Services Limited

Water End, COPLE, Bedford

Suppliers of Leading Brand Names

in Domestic & Professional

powered garden machinery

at BIG DISCOUNTS

with full service back up

Petrol, Diesel, Electric, Battery

Allen, Atco, Billy Goat, Countax, Eliet,

Flymo, Hayter, Honda, Klippo, Lawnflite,

MTD, Mountfield, Robin, Ryobi, Stihl,Viking, Westwood, Yardman, etc

For details of Products and

Savings visit our website

www.groundcare.biz

Tel: 01234 831123

sales + service + spares + repairs

www.groundcarebedford.co.uk

2014 05

Documents

cople news

cople cricket club

cople church fete

village website

willington road

special occasions

playing fields

village hall layout