Bedfordshire and Luton Local Information
Browse entries BED to BEDFORD
The A-Z pages give brief details of all the organisations included in the Local Information web site. Click on the name of a group for more information or on the 'Search' button at the top of the page to look for similar groups
BEDFORD AIKIDO CLUB
- The Aikido club in Bedford started in 2008. It belongs to a UK wide organisation and is one of the few groups in the UK to practice traditional Aikido. It is recognised by Hombu Dojo, the world Aikido headquarters in Japan. "Effective Japanese martial art sutiable for anyone or any level of fitness." (website). Beginners are welcome. Age range: 18 upwards. Membership fees.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ALLERGY SUPPORT GROUP (BASG)
- BASG gives support to sufferers of allergies and sensitivity/intolerance to food, chemicals, and inhalants. Formal meetings with speakers. New members welcome. Active on issues where the environment affects health and lobbies MPs, local authorities and the NHS. Books bought in partnership with Beds Libraries and available from them. Working for CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) to be available on the NHS. Further information can be found on the website. All ages. No membership fee. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND COUNTY BADMINTON CLUB - JUNIOR CLUB
- Age range: 8-18. Membership fee reviewed annually.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND COUNTY BADMINTON CLUB
- Club runs 8 teams & has 3 courts. Play throughout the year. No beginners. There are also two junior clubs. Junior club age range is 8 upwards, Senior clubs 15 upwards. Membership fee varies.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND COUNTY GOLF CLUB
- Members club, which welcomes visitors mid week and guests of members at weekends (subject to availability). Age range: 5 upwards. For membership and green fee rates call the club or see the website. Disabled access.
- Clapham Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND DISTRICT AUDIO NEWS (BDAN)
- BDAN records and distributes free weekly and quarterly audio cassettes of local press stories and features in English for those who cannot see or have a visual impairement. There is also a quarterly magazine featuring local and national items of interest, stories and a What's On guide to local events. All ages. No charge for membership. (From January 2009 BDAN took over the work of Ampthill and Flitwick Talking Newspaper which ceased after many years)
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND DISTRICT CAT CLUB
- The club aims to encourage and promote a greater interest in the breeding, welfare and exhibiting of all breeds of cats. New members are always welcome.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND DISTRICT CEREBRAL PALSY SOCIETY
- "Our primary aim is to support people in North and Mid Bedfordshire with Cerebral Palsy, their families and carers." (website).
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND DISTRICT GARDENERS' ASSOCIATION
- The Bedford & District Gardener’s Association organises the bulk-buying of gardening supplies for the mutual benefit of it's members. All local gardeners are welcome to join. Two branches hold a wide range of products from garden canes, a comprehensive stock of fertilisers, composts, lawn treatments, seeds, pots and sundries, selected very much with quality in mind; many of which are sold at almost two-thirds of the price found in the garden centres. All ages. Membership fee: £1 pa, Over 60s 50p pa.
- Bedford Newnham Beds
BEDFORD AND DISTRICT SCALE MODEL CLUB
- Scale modelling activities for all ages and skill levels. Practical advice to help novice or returning model builders. Promotion of the hobby at shows and outside events. Social activities include museum visits, group shopping trips to model retailers and classic cinema screenings. Membership fee: £16 p.a., Under 16s £10 p.a., plus £2 (Juniors £1) sub each meeting. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND DISTRICT SKATEBOARD AND WHEELS ASSOCIATION
- The Association has successfully campaigned for a proper venue for skateboarders in the face of byelaws banning skateboarding in the streets. Now includes facilities for BMX. Age range: open to all. No membership fee.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND DISTRICT TABLE TENNIS LEAGUE
- Structured team competition for adults and juniors. Contact for details. Age range: 10 upwards. Membership fee: N/A.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AND KEMPSTON MP - RICHARD FULLER (CONSERVATIVE)
- Bedford Kempston Beds
BEDFORD AND LUTON INTERPRETING AND TRANSLATION SERVICES
- Translating & interpreting from/into Asian languages. Originated as a workers' co-operative.
- Beds
BEDFORD AND MILTON KEYNES WATERWAY TRUST
- Formed to pursue the building of a canal between the Grand Union Canal at Milton Keynes and the River Ouse at Bedford. The Trust is working closely with British Waterways and the Project Partnership of local councils and other agencies that want to make the 'B&MK' happen. Trust volunteers run information, consultation and promotional activities, and contribute to the Waterway planning process. Speakers are available to give talks on the BMKWT. Membership fee: £10, family £15.
- Bedford Milton Keynes Beds Bucks
BEDFORD ARCHERS ADDICTS CLUB
- A club for fans of the Radio 4 programme. New members welcome. No membership fee.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ARCHITECTURAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY (BAALHS)
- Winter programme of lectures, summer programme of visits to local sites of interest, occasional coach outings. All ages. Membership fee: £12 pa, (£10 concessions). Disabled access to church.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD AREA BUS USERS' SOCIETY (BABUS)
- The Society has three main aims: to represent the interests of bus users in the Bedfordshire area; to encourage people to use buses; to act as a focal point between bus users, bus companies and the local councils. See the website for further information. This includes a bulletin board for discussion. Covers bedford Borough and Central Beds area East of the M1. All ages. Membership fee: £3 pa.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ART SOCIETY
- Bedford Art Society was founded in 1954 as the Bedford Art Circle. The Society exists to promote local interest in the visual arts. It enables those with any interest in art to hear talks, to see practical demonstrations, to exhibit their work in the Society's exhibitions, to visit art galleries and to take part in a number of practical opportunities for enjoying art. Membership fees: £20, those receiving state benefits £10, full time students £5. Lectures £5 on the door for non-members.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ASSOCIATION OF SENIOR CITIZENS
- A campaigning group which aims to promote the welfare and interests of elderly people in Bedfordshire. Age range: 55 upwards. Membership fees.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ASSOCIATION OF TOUR GUIDES
- Bedford Association of Tour Guides is a group of individuals with a sound knowledge of Bedford’s history coupled with an abiding commitment to sharing their passion for the town’s history with others. Having undergone in-depth training in a number of areas including guiding and presenting techniques, the members of the association are able to lead groups on guided tours of Bedford and the surrounding area. Each year there is a summer season of themed walks, which take place on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. Pre-booking is essential. Fee: Adults £3.00, children £1.50. If you would like a copy of this year’s Guided Walks leaflet please contact Bedford Tourist Information Centre.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ASTROLOGY CLUB
- The Bedford Astrology Club has been in existence for more than 21 years. The club is for anybody with an interest in the subject. Meetings consist of talks by guest professional speakers, club members or a general 'Birth Chart' group discussion night. Some basic knowledge of astrology is helpful to get the most from some of the subjects covered but beginners are very welcome and any member of the club will be pleased to help further your understanding. Ages 16 upwards. Membership fee £15 per year + £5 per evening (£7 guest visitor non-members). Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
- Talks, observing evenings, visits, loan of instruments and library of books, slides, CDs etc. Beginners welcomed. No special knowledege required. Covers all surrounding counties. All ages. Membership fee: £13 pa (single), £16 pa (family), £7 pa (concessions - OAP's & Students). Disabled Access: wheelchair access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ATHLETIC RUGBY CLUB
- Local rugby club founded in 1908. See the website for fixtures and membership fees.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BATERIA
- To practise and perform street carnival-based percussion music, particularly the music of Brazil.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BEREAVEMENT CARE
- A bereavement support group which offers support to all bereaved people during group meetings. All welcome - refreshments served. All ages. No membership fee. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BIRDKEEPERS SOCIAL CLUB
- Aims to give people the confidence to become good birdkeepers and a chance to share and gain knowledge with others. Junior members are actively encouraged. All aspects of birdkeeping are catered for. There are also frequent trips and bird auctions. Age range: 5-105. Membership fees: Adult single £6; Couple £8; Junior £2 plus £1 joining fee for new members.
- Clapham Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BLUES RUGBY CLUB
- Professional rugby club. All ages. Ground admission: stand £20, concession £16, ground £16, concession £12, under-16s ground £2.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BOAT CLUB
- A private boat club, conducting a variety of boating and social activities throughout the year for its members and guests. Age range: 18 upwards. Membership fee on application. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BOROUGH BOWLING CLUB
- For both ladies & gentlemen interested in playing flat green bowls, indoors (6 rinks) and outdoors (9 rinks). Ages 9 upwards. Membership fee £65 indoor, £123 indoor & outdoor, Junior £5. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL
- Bedford Borough Council has two main office locations (Borough Hall and Town Hall). Town Hall: St. Paul's Square, Bedford, MK40 1SJ, Tel: 01234 267422.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BOROUGH FAMILY INFORMATION SERVICE (FIS)
- Bedford Borough Family Information Service provides free and confidential information and advice to help parents, carers, children, young people and professionals working with families find the services they need. Use the service to find childcare, youth clubs, sport and leisure activities, family support groups or services for children with a disability. The FIS runs a freephone helpline, however if you would like to meet someone face to face please call the service to arrange an appointment. You can also obtain information on local services by visiting their online Family Services Directory.
- Beds
BEDFORD BOROUGH HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT RECORD (HER)
- The Historic Environment Record is the key source of information on Bedford Borough's archaeological sites, and historic landscape features, buildings and structures. The Record is available to everyone from members of the public to those with a professional interest. The Record is a key source for planning and management purposes.
- Beds
BEDFORD BOROUGH LIBRARIES
- Click on this link for library opening times, addresses and contact details of the public libraries in Bedford Borough.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BOROUGH PARENT PARTNERSHIP SERVICE (BBPPS)
- The Parent Partnership Service (PPS) offers free, confidential, impartial information and support to parents and carers of children who have, or may have, special educational needs (SEN).
- Beds
BEDFORD BRASS - 3 BANDS: JUNIORS, A-BAND AND BREAKAWAY BRASS
- A firmly established and well known brass band organisation. It aims to encourage the appreciation of music, especially music written for brass instruments. Also offers young people an opportunity to gain tuition and guidance from expert players. National Lottery funded. Age range: 9 years upwards. Weekly subscription: £1.30 junior & A bands, £1.50 Breakaway Brass. The bands are available for functions etc, but are not marching bands. Fee quoted on application.
- Bedford Kempston Beds
BEDFORD BRIDGE CLUB
- Duplicate pairs, except first Tuesday which is usually teams. Visitors welcome, please check first. No smoking venue. Refreshments. Membership fee £65 pa (includes EBU membership), visitors £3. Disabled Access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BUDDHIST GROUP (CAMBRIDGE BUDDHIST CENTRE OUTREACH)
- A regular meeting for meditation and Buddhist discussion. The website is for the Cambridge Buddhist Centre with links to nearby groups.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD BULLS BASKETBALL CLUB
- A basketball team training and playing in the national and local league.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD CAMERA CLUB
- Lectures, competitions, demonstrations and outings. Visitors & new members welcome. All ages. Membership fee: £50 single, £80 double, £20 full-time students.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD CAR CLUB
- Social events, treasure hunts, autotests, rallies, from club to national level, but all kinds of enthusiasts welcome, beginners, families & serious competitors. Detailed information leaflet available from the contact address, or on the web site. Age range: 14 upwards. Membership fee: single £10 pa; joint £15 pa; pensioner £5 pa; under 18s free.
- Bedford Lavendon Beds Bucks
BEDFORD CARIBBEAN SENIOR CITIZENS ASSOCIATION
- Contact for more details. Age range: 55 plus.
- Bedford Queen's Park Beds
BEDFORD CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM
- Offers a green burial service. Holds all the original cemetery records for Foster Hill Road Cemetery and Norse Road Cemetery. If you have the name of the person and the date of the death you can check the records to find the original grave site.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD CHARITY (THE HARPUR TRUST) - ALMSHOUSES
- The Harpur Trust almshouses include 24 one bedroom flats at Harpur House and 14 bungalows and cottages in Randalls Close, Bromham.
- Bedford Bromham Beds
BEDFORD CHARITY (THE HARPUR TRUST)
- Makes grants, both large and small, primarily to organisations with some individual programmes based in the Borough of Bedford. See also entry for almshouses. Aims: (1) The promotion of education. (2) The promotion of any charitable purpose for the relief of people who are sick or in need, hardship or distress in the Borough. (3) Recreation in the interest of social welfare. Applications may be made on forms available from the correspondent.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD CHESS CLUB
- Club tournaments; 3 teams in the local Bedfordshire League; members considered for county matches. All members registered with British Chess Federation. All ages welcome. Membership fee: £60 pa, but there are various concessions. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD CHORAL SOCIETY
- A thriving local choir, the Bedford Choral Society performs three or four times each year, usually in Bedford's historic Corn Exchange. A large choir, the second oldest choir in England, founded in 1867, now with 130 voices. Regularly sings in Proms in the Park. All ages over 16 welcome. Full membership fee £120 pa. inclusive; students £45 pa., payable in 3 instalments. Other concessions available.
- Bedford Biddenham Beds
BEDFORD COLLEGE - ENTERPRISE HOUSE
- A community learning centre providing English classes for speakers of other languages. Specialises in ESOL and EFL (English for Speakers of Other Languages and English as a Foreign Language).
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD COLLEGE LEARNING CENTRES
- Learning Centres in Bedford, Luton and Rushden are part of Bedford College. Courses in information technology. Age range:16 plus. Previously known as Learning Shops.
- Bedford Luton Rushden Beds Northants
BEDFORD COLLEGE
- Publications: Prospectuses. Paper copies available at libraries. For information about apprenticeships, on the home page, click on the Apprenticeships tab.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD COMMUNITY CHAMBER ORCHESTRA (BCCO)
- We are an orchestra for people living in and near Bedford who play a musical instrument and are roughly grade 6 and above. We are a friendly and sociable group. Age range: 16 upwards. Membership fee: £15 per term.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH TEAM (CMHT)
- NHS mental health services for adults. Bedford Assessment and Single Point of Access (East) and Bedford Recovery (West) are both based at Twinwoods Health Resource Centre.
- Bedford Kempston Beds
BEDFORD CONCERN FOR THE HOMELESS AND ROOTLESS (BECHAR) - PREBEND DAY CENTRE
- Bedford Concern for the Homeless & Rootless (BeCHaR) has been running The Prebend Day Centre since 1993. The day centre is a drop-in Centre, which is available to vulnerable men and women aged 16 and over. There are volunteering opportunities.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD CORN EXCHANGE COMPLEX (BCEX)
- The Bedford Corn Exchange complex has a programme of events and shows. Tickets are available from the Central Box Office. Contact the Events Management Team about facilities and function rooms available to hire in the Corn Exhange Complex. For information about the venues, a list of events and further booking information please see the website.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD COUNCIL OF FAITHS
- Bedford Council of Faiths is an Interfaith organisation which has been in existence for many years. The group is run by people from the local community dedicated to inter-faith understanding. Formerly Bedford Interfaith Group. Both individual and corporate membership is available.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD COUNTY COURT
- When attending a County Court hearing, use the Riverside Entrance of Shire Hall. The address for correspondence is P.O. Box 1405, Bedford MK40 9DN.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD CREATIVE ARTS
- Bedford Creative Arts is an educational charity that promotes contemporary visual arts. BCA has moved from 13, High Street, Bedford, MK40 1RN and the BCA Gallery there closed (July 2010). "We specialise in collaborative and participatory art through co-producing artist-led projects across Bedfordshire" (website). BCA has artists' studios available to rent at i-Create Studios, 104 Midland Road, Bedford MK40 1QE. Age range: 14+.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD CREDIT UNION
- Bedford Credit Union is a not-for-profit organisation owned and run by its members, providing savings and low cost loans. People who live or work in Bedford (or the surrounding areas), or in the North Central Bedfordshire District area (the former Mid Bedfordshire area) are eligible to join the Credit Union. (See area coverage on the Common Bond page of the website.)
- Bedford Shefford Beds
BEDFORD DAYCARE HOSPICE (GLADYS IBBETT HOUSE)
- Bedford Daycare Hospice provides specialist palliative care on a daily basis to people affected by cancer or other life threatening illnesses.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (BDA)
- The Bedford Development Agency is a partnership between local companies and Bedford Borough Council. The objectives of the BDA are to act as an influential lobbying force on important issues such as communications,support the development of Bedford to make it a first class location in which to live and work and to nurture a two way, supportive relationship between the Council and local business. The website has a seach for commercial property in Bedford, including offices, business centres, industrial units, warehouses, commercial land and retail property.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD DRAMATIC CLUB
- The BDC produce 3 to 4 plays a year, including classics, farces, musicals and dramas.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD EAGLES DIVING CLUB
- Divers can train up to 3 times a week at different levels and capabilities. The club is run by a very hard working committee and extremely dedicated team of coaches. Age range: 5-18. Membership fees: £20 per month for one session a week; £26 per month for two or more sessions; £1 per month discount for siblings; ASA and insurance £10 bi-annually.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD EARLY DANCE AND MUSIC
- Early dance (15th-19th centuries) workshops and social events. Age range: 18 upwards. Membership fee: £5 (events open to non-members).
- Bedford Beds Herts
BEDFORD FILM SOCIETY
- A film society showing approximately 20 films per season, chosen by the membership. Ages 16 upwards. Membership £45 per season (£35 concession per season); guests £3 per film. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD FINE COMPANIONS FOLK DANCE CLUB
- English Country Dancing. Workshops available. All are welcome, no need to bring a partner. Age range 16 upwards. Subs £2 per week including tea or coffee. Annual membership fee £2.50. Affiliated to English Folk Dance & Song Society.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD FLORAL ART SOCIETY
- A group of mainly amateur flower arrangers who are keen to promote creativity with flowers. Membership fee: £23, visitors £5 per meeting.
- Bedford Kempston Beds
BEDFORD FLYERS TRAMPOLINE CLUB
- Bedford based trampoline club.
- Bedford Biddenham Beds
BEDFORD FOLK DANCE CLUB
- Bedford Folk Dance Club provides instruction and dancing enjoyment in a range of folk and country dances. The dances are mainly English folk favourites but include American squares and we dance to some Irish, Scottish and Russian folk tunes. We have a total membership for dancing of about 50 and on a typical club night about 30 attend (from about a 20 mile radius of Bedford). Partner not needed. Previously Bedford Barn Dancers. Ages 18 upwards (most members between 30 - 70). Membership fee £2 per annum, £2 club night fee. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD FOODBANK
- "We rely on food donations to feed local people in crisis." (website). Donations of in-date, non-perishable food items are welcomed. There opportunities for volunteering and fundraising. The foodbank is part of the Hope Trust (Bedford), run in partnership with local churches led by Brickhill Baptist Church.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD FOYER
- "The Bedford Foyer provides supported accommodation and training to young people in housing need, aged 16-24." (bpha website)
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD FREEGLE
- "Throwing something away? STOP!! If you live in the Bedford area, please offer your reusable items to other group members - keep it out of landfill by recycling it. Items must be legal and appropriate, and are gifted for free. Items can't be loaned, swapped or sold." (Bedford Freegle). You must be a member of the group first to use this 'virtual community'. All ages. No membership fees. Previously known as BEDFORD FREECYCLE.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD GALLERY QUIRE
- Bedford Gallery Quire was formed in 2003 to explore and perform the rich musical heritage of the town and its surroundings. The Quire welcomes visitors, especially potential singers and musicians by prior arrangements with the Musical Director. For further information about the Quire and West Gallery music see the web site. Age range: 15 upwards. Membership Fee £40 per annum. There is disabled access at the Retirement Education Centre.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD GALLERY
- Cecil Higgins Art Gallery & Bedford Museum, including Bedford Gallery is now closed for redevelopment. The project is scheduled to reopen in Spring 2013. The redevelopment project will unite three currently separate buildings, so housing Bedford’s unique collections under one roof, with new facilities and improved access. In the meantime there is a lively programme of events and activities at other venues in the town, at the Art Gallery & Museum site and further afield. Keep an eye on the website for all the latest news.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD GOLF CLUB
- The Bedford Golf Club offers a driving range, putting green, 18-hole championship golf course, fully-equipped clubhouse, restaurant & bar facilities. Fully stocked pro shop, PGA qualified golf instructors. Membership fees. Disabled access.
- Bedford Biddenham Great Denham Beds
BEDFORD GUILD HOUSE
- The Guild House ia a popular meeting place and has a wide range of activities on offer every day. New members and visitors are always welcome. Please visit the website for a list of activities, days and times. There is a cyber cafe and computer classes are offered. Cooked lunches (please book before 11.00 on day required). Tea, coffee and refreshments available 10.00-16.00. Age range: 50 upwards. Membership fee. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD HARRIERS ATHLETIC CLUB
- All types of road running from 5k runs to marathons, also cross-country. Formed in 1985 the Club now has over 500 members and organises road and cross-country races. Please contact or see website for more information. Qualified coaches lead the various running groups. Established runners interested in joining (must be able to run for 40 minutes without stopping) can go along on any Monday or Wednesday. Ages 17 upwards. Membership fee £15 per annum. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS AND PERFORMING ARTS COMPLEX
- Facilities: Sports hall, swimming pool, theatre, gym. Open for public swimming throughout the year. Swimming lessons also available.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD HOCKEY CLUB
- Bedford Hockey Club was founded in 1893 and now has new facilities at the Bedford Sports and Hockey Centre. During the 2011/12 season the club will be running 7 mens teams and 5 ladies teams as well as a junior section.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD HOSPITALS CHARITY
- The Charity has raised £6.5 million for a number of projects supporting Bedford Hospital and continues to raise funds for significant capital and equipment projects.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD HOUSING LINK (BHL)
- Committed to providing supported accommodation with a resettlement service to single homeless men and women. Our focus is on enabling homeless people to find education, employment, work training and a place of their own to live. Working through Personal Development Plans, we aim to support people to maximise their potential to live independently. Age range: 16-65. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD I-KAN BUSINESS INCUBATION CENTRE (IKAN)
- Bedford i-kan Business Incubation Centre is designed to increase the number of and improve the survival rate of start-up businesses and social enterprises by providing a nurturing, supportive, high quality, flexible, affordable and fully serviced office environment. Start-up businesses can choose from a range of options i.e. virtual tenancies, hot-desking and small offices. The fees include the use of PCs, broadband internet, utilities, business rates and refreshment facilities. Tenants also have access to onsite business advice, office support, meeting and training room facilities and Bedford Development Agency membership including access to BDA training programmes. Co-funded by EEDA and Bedford Borough Council who manages the project.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD I-LAB (ILAB)
- A website promoting the new Innovation Centre at Bedford Priory Business Park. There is a Business Directory of Bedford i-lab tenants.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD INTEGRATED HEALTH GROUP
- Working at helping integration of CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) into the local NHS. There was a pilot scheme in the Bedford Healthy Living Initiative but this has now ended. The GPs consortium Horizon Health all practice committee has now agreed GPs can prescribe complementary and alternative medicine through their individual practice commissioning. In May 2009 NICE issued guidelines and recommendations on use of CAM therapies for backache. Bedford has taken part in the 15 forums and chosen with 7 groups for their guidelines. All ages. No membership fee. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD INTERNATIONAL ATHLETICS STADIUM
- Facilities: outdoor track of international standard, athletics field events, 2 rugby pitches, American football pitch, indoor sports hall, (8 badminton courts and 1 court for team sports), 60 metre sprint track. Discounts available with Bedford Leisure Card.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD JOBCENTRE PLUS OFFICE
- You can now look and apply for jobs and training, find out about childcare or benefits and apply for a driving licence from the website DirectGov.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD JU-JITSU
- Martial Arts classes in ju jitsu and self defence. Part of the British Ju-Jitsu Association (BJJA). Age range: 13 upwards. Membership fees: £3.50 seniors, £3.00 juniors. There is disabled access.
- Biddenham Marston Moretaine St Neots Beds
BEDFORD JUDO CLUB
- Age ranges: Juniors 8-16, Seniors 16 upwards. Membership fee: £35 for three months (senior), £20 for six months (junior).
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD JUGGLING CLUB
- Bedford Juggling Club meets most weeks, "to practice all kinds of juggling and circus type things". (website). Age range: 16 upwards. There are membership fees. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD LINK (LOCAL INVOLVEMENT NETWORK) (BEDFORD BOROUGH LINK)
- Local Involvement Networks or LINks give local people, groups and communities the chance work together to improve local health and social care services. LINks members sit of health planning groups, they monitor services and have the power to hold services to account. Local Involvement Networks (LINks) replaced patient forums in April 2008. Bedford LINk is hosted by Age Concern Bedfordshire.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD MARIANETTES
- A comedy musical theatre society producing 2 musicals a year. Please contact using contact form on the website.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD MESSIAH CHOIR
- An annual performance of Handel's Messiah on the eve of Advent Sunday, in aid of a local charity - a different one each year. All ages, but members need to be able to read music and be familiar with the work. Membership fee: £10 pa. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD MIDWEEK CRICKET LEAGUE
- Evening cricket league matches (4 Divisions, 16 over matches). Winston Jermy Cup & Chiltern Travel Plate Trophy confined to League clubs only, as per membership. Age range: 13 upwards. Membership fee: varies according to club. League fees: £25.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD MODEL ENGINEERING SOCIETY
- "The society exists to promote interest in model engineering and the design and construction of models, tools and apparatus of all kinds amongst its members and the public." (website). The society also runs Summerfields Miniature Railway (see separate entry). Membership fee: £32 adult, £25 OAP, £7 junior and family.
- Bedford Haynes Wilstead Wilshamstead Beds
BEDFORD MOUNTAIN BIKE GROUP
- A mountain biking group based around the Home Counties in the UK. No membership fees.
- Beds
BEDFORD MOUNTAINEERING CLUB
- Mountaineering, hillwalking, climbing. Age range: adult. There are membership fees.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD MULTI SPORT
- Coaching sessions on an individual basis and in groups: athletics, zumba, goalball, swimming, circuits. Fun social sessions: walking, indoor skydiving, badminton, triathlon. Specialises in people with disabilities, adult beginners and children. Age range: 10 to adult. Membership fees: various. Disabled access: yes.
- Bedford Beds Herts
BEDFORD MUSEUM
- Cecil Higgins Art Gallery & Bedford Museum, including Bedford Gallery is now closed for redevelopment. The project is scheduled to reopen in Spring 2013. The redevelopment project will unite three currently separate buildings, so housing Bedford’s unique collections under one roof, with new facilities and improved access. In the meantime there is a lively programme of events and activities at other venues in the town, at the Art Gallery & Museum site and further afield. Keep an eye on the website for all the latest news.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD MUSIC CLUB
- Presents "Music on Thursdays," a series of chamber music concerts by professional musicians. All ages.Season ticket £72, concessions £65, student (18 -25) £15, Child (under 18) £5. Single tickets available from central box office or on the door on the night. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION
- A voluntary association of National Trust members and holders of NT Volunteer cards. Aims: to give National Trust members greater benefit from their membership, to raise money for and to promote the National Trust. Autumn/Winter programme of talks and events; holidays and long week-ends away; programme of visits to places of interest; talks service; support for the Trust's Willington Dovecote and Stables and other projects and properties. All ages. Annual membership fee: £8, (£12 per couple). Entry to talks £2 (Assn members), £2.50 (other NT members), £3 (non-members of NT). Disabled access.
- Bedford Kempston Beds
BEDFORD NUMISMATIC SOCIETY
- All coin, medal and banknote collectors welcome. All ages. No membership fee.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD OFFSHORE SAILING GROUP (BOSG)
- For those interested in sailing and boating. Social events also held throughout the year. See website for details.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD OLDER PEOPLE'S COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH TEAM (CMHT)
- Older People's Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs) support older people requiring specialist mental health services.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD OPEN BOOK GROUP
- Discussions take place about a chosen title and reviews may be written, which may then be placed on the library website. Ages range: 30-70. No disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD OPEN DOOR - COUNSELLING SERVICE
- A free and confidential counselling service for young people between the ages of 13 and 25. Counselling is provided by a team of fully trained and experienced volunteer counsellors. No membership fee. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ORGAN AND KEYBOARD CLUB
- Organ concerts and Social Nights. To further the interest in playing Organs and Keyboards and give members a chance to talk to each other about their common interest. To promote public concerts in Bedford with Top Professional Organists. All ages. Family Subscription for one year £8; Single Subscription for one year £6. Age range: 10 upwards. Disabled access.
- Kempston Bedford Beds
BEDFORD OUTLOOK
- Visits to theatres, cinemas, pubs, restaurants, parties, barbeques, games evenings. Monthly coffee evening. See 4 monthly programme - as displayed in libraries or from above. Ages 18 upwards. £5 p.a. membership fee.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD PARKRUN
- Weekly, free, timed, officially measured 5k run-jog-walk around Bedford Park. Suitable for everyone including buggy runners and wheelchair racers. Suitable for all ages and all abilities. Register for free online and then turn up to any Bedford Parkrun. Awards and prizes given throughout the year. Age range: all ages. No membership fee. Disabled access: yes.
- Bedford Beds Herts
BEDFORD PENTECOSTAL CHURCH
- Bedford Pentecostal Church is part of the Assemblies Of God (GB).
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD PHILATELIC SOCIETY
- New members welcome. Talks on all aspects of stamp collecting. Sales of stamps by members. Library available. All ages. Membership fee £10 pa. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD PIPE BAND
- A Scottish pipe band performing at fetes, carnivals and street parades. Young people particularly welcome. Outlay for uniform/ instruments is supported by the band. Free tuition on pipes and drums. Highland dance is an integral part of the band's performance and tuition for this is a regular feature of practice evenings.
- Bedford
BEDFORD PRIORY LADIES' BOWLING CLUB
- New members welcome for outdoor bowling, either experienced or novice. All ages. Membership fee: senior citizens £39, others £78.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD PRIORY MEN'S BOWLING CLUB
- Flat green bowls. Age range: 14 years upwards. Club Membership fee £12.50, plus Council fee to give access to all Council Greens £46.75 - £93.45. Limited disabled access to Pavilion. (See also entry for Priory Ladies' Bowling Club)
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD RACE EQUALITY COUNCIL (BREC)
- BREC has been established in Bedford for over 30 years and provides extensive support and services to the ethnic minority communities of Bedfordshire. Please contact or call in for further information.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD RAMBLING CLUB
- Enjoy the countryside through walking. Programme of walks of various lengths, and social activities. All ages. Membership fee: £7 single (£6 concessions); £10 household (£8 concessions). First few walks free.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD REGATTA COMMITTEE
- The Bedford Regatta Committee organises the Bedford Amateur Regatta held each year in May.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD RIFLE CLUB
- Bedford Rifle Club is a large, active club and welcomes newcomers.
- Bedford Clapham Beds
BEDFORD RIVER FESTIVAL
- The Bedford River Festival is held once every two years. In 2010 the festival took place on 17-18 July. The dates for the next one are 21-22 July 2012. All ages. No membership or admittance fees. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD ROWING CLUB
- Bedford Rowing Club is based on the Great Ouse in the centre of the town. Boats include a complete range of modern eights, fours, pairs, doubles and single sculls.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD RUGBY FOLLOWERS ASSOCIATION
- The Association exists to provide support and assistance to Bedford Rugby Club and to provide transport to enable supporters to travel to away games. All ages. Membership fee: £5 adult, £3 child. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD RUSSELL PARK BOWLING CLUB
- New members welcome. All ages. Fees: local authority rates for bowling green.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD SCHOOL STUDY CENTRE (BSSC)
- Prepares boys and girls aged 10-17 for school in the UK. Offers intensive English language and study skills preparation. Three week summer schools are also available.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD SCOTTISH DANCE GROUP
- Various classes offer a range of skills & levels of performance, from beginner to more advanced. The object is social enjoyment. Open to all. We provide demonstration dances with a short covering talk, please contact George Hogg on 01234 343046 for further details. Age range: 16 upwards. Previously known as the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society - Bedfordshire Branch (RSCDS)
- Bedford Ravensden Beds
BEDFORD SCUBA DIVERS
- A scuba diving club based in Bedford and affiliated to the British Sub Aqua Club. Visit the website for details of training and qualifications.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD SHOPMOBILITY
- Shopmobility is a scheme which provides mobility aids (manual and battery-powered scooters and wheelchairs) to help people who have limited mobility to shop and use the facilities in Bedford Town Centre. It also offers the facility of pushchair loans for parents with young children. There is no charge for using the equipment. However, a returnable deposit of £5 may be required for manual wheelchairs and pushchairs and £10 for battery-powered wheelchairs and scooters.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD SPEAKERS
- Public speaking, presentation skills and speaker training. A fun and professional meeting with support for nervous beginners to advanced advocates. Associated with Toastmasters International. Age range: 18 upwards. Membership fee: £48 for each 6 months. Disabled access limited (no lift).
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD SPIRITUALIST CHURCH AND HEALING SANCTUARY
- Church services with clairvoyance. Healing - donation. Suppers with Clairvoyance, Open Healing Days, Xmas and Summer Fayres. All ages. Membership fee: £10 (optional).
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD STEAM ENGINE PRESERVATION SOCIETY
- Monthly meetings to promote steam traction engines & the preservation movement in general. Monthly meetings are informal get togethers for a natter & a pint. During the winter months there are film shows and guest speakers, an annual rally (Sept) and a dinner dance (Nov). Age range: 14 upwards. Membership fee: £12 pa. Disabled access.
- Old Warden Beds
BEDFORD SUB-AQUA CLUB
- Scuba diving training. Ages 14 upwards. Membership and use of equipment fees apply.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD SWING DANCE SOCIETY
- Lindy Hop and Freestyle dance classes. Also classes in Northampton. See website for details. Admission: £7 for the evening.
- Bedford
BEDFORD TAGB TAEKWONDO
- Age range: Minimum age 8 years. There ar fees - please see website for details.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD TAMIL KALANCHIYAM (BTK)
- The main objective of the group is to bring people together to practice and develop Tamil culture, tradition and language and pass them on to the next generation. The group is non-sectarian and non-profit making. All ages. Membership fee: £10 per family joining fee and £5 per year.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD TAXATION OFFICES (HM REVENUE AND CUSTOMS) - HMRC ENQUIRY CENTRE
- This section of the website tells you how to contact HMRC by phone, email, post or face to face visit.
- Herts Beds
BEDFORD TO BLETCHLEY RAIL USERS ASSOCIATION
- Aims to promote and improve the Bletchley to Bedford rail service. All ages. Membership fee: £3 (adult); £2 (concessions).
- Bedford Bletchley Beds Bucks
BEDFORD TORCH FELLOWSHIP GROUP
- "A group for blind and partially sighted individuals enabling them to build relationships, find mutual companionship and discover a friendship with Jesus within an informal Christian context where eyesight isn't an issue. Activities include singing, sketches, talks and crafts as well as outings. Refreshments and transport available. Sighted volunteer helpers welcome." (Bedford Torch Fellowship Group). All ages. No membership fee. There is disabled access and toilets at the venue.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE (TIC)
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD TOWN BAND
- The Bedford Town Band is a brass band based in Bedford. There are 4 bands for players of different standards: Town Band; Concert Brass; Progress Brass and the Decibels group.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD TRAKTORS TRIATHLON CLUB
- Triathlon is a combination of swimming, cycling, and running.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD TUESDAY PLAYFORD - COUNTRY DANCE CLUB
- Learning and performing Playford style English country dances in an informal group for adults. New members & visitors welcome. Age range: adults. Membership fee £1.50 per session. Disabled access.
- Bedford Biddenham Beds
BEDFORD WELSH SOCIETY
- Talks, outings and musical evenings. Founded 1954. All ages. Membership fee: £5 pa.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORD YOUTH SERVICE
- Advice and accredited activities for young people on various projects including virtual babies, youth club, music recording studio, cookery etc. Ages 13-19. No fees. Disabled access. Previously Kempston and Wootton Area Youth Team.
- Kempston Wootton Beds
BEDFORD-BAMBERG ASSOCIATION
- Aims to promote social & cultural links with Bamberg in Germany. Newsletter/ liaison with twin town. Regular events throughout the year. All ages, but mainly 40 upwards. Membership fee: £6 single; £10 couple.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORDBID - (BEDFORD BID - BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT)
- Funded by town centre businesses and runs various projects including the Bedford town centre Bluecaps scheme and Town Centre Vouchers scheme. The website includes a Town Centre Guide with a directory of local companies and a What's On section.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE AAA (AMATEUR ATHLETICS ASSOCIATION)
- Road racing, field and track events, cross country events and a list of running clubs in the county.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE ADULT STRING SESSIONS (BASS) (LATE STARTERS ORCHESTRA)
- Musicians who enjoy playing with other instrumentalists but are too old for youth groups and not up to the standard of semi-pro local orchestras. BASS invites other string players to join them. Ages 18 upwards. Membership fee £7 pcm. Disabled access to hall.
- Kempston Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE ADVICE FORUM (BAF)
- Local forum for not-for-profit information and advice providers in Bedfordshire (Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire Council areas). The Forum has produced an online Bedfordshire Advice Directory of advice organisations in Bedfordshire (not Luton). Membership fee: £25 a year.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE AND CAMBRIDGESHIRE RURAL SUPPORT GROUP
- A local charity that is part of a national network of support groups dedicated to combating stress and hardship in rural areas.
- Beds Cambs
BEDFORDSHIRE AND HERTFORDSHIRE FUCHSIA SOCIETY
- Talks and demonstrations by well-known fuchsia growers. Annual show and Fuschia Festival on the last weekend in July.
- Henlow Beds Herts
BEDFORDSHIRE AND HERTFORDSHIRE GOAT SOCIETY
- Meetings with speakers on goat and small holder related topics. Organise goat section of Herts Show. Magazine, equipment shop & library. All ages. Membership fee £7 per year. Disabled access.
- Streatley Beds Herts Bucks
BEDFORDSHIRE AND HERTFORDSHIRE HEALTH PROTECTION UNIT
- Part of the Health Protection Agency. From the HPA main page scroll down to 'HPA in your region' and select 'East of England', then select Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire from the region map. The Unit serves a local population of some 1.5 million residents. It is responsible for providing advice and support for the monitoring, control and prevention of communicable diseases and infection. It also monitors non-infectious environmental hazards and participates in emergency planning for the NHS.
- Beds Herts
BEDFORDSHIRE AND HERTFORDSHIRE HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
- "This Trust was established in 1991 to raise and manage funds to help the restoration and repair of churches and chapels in the counties of Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire and also Barnet." (website) Income is from members’ subscriptions and from an annual sponsored bike ride in September.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE AND HERTFORDSHIRE REGIMENT ASSOCIATION OF THE ROYAL ANGLIAN REGIMENT - BEDFORD AND DISTRICT
- This is the Bedford and District Branch (16 Foot Old comrades Association) of the Beds and Herts Regiment Association of the Royal Anglian Regiment. Old comrades of the East Anglian and Royal Anglian Regiments are welcome. Meeting & bringing together old comrades. Fostering esprit-de-corps, comradeship & welfare of the Regiment & the preservation of its traditions. Ages 18 upwards. Membership fee £10 pa. Disabled access.
- Kempston Bedford Beds Herts
BEDFORDSHIRE AND HERTFORDSHIRE REGIMENT ASSOCIATION OF THE ROYAL ANGLIAN REGIMENT - WATFORD AND HEMEL HEMPSTEAD
- This is the Watford and Hemel Hempstead Branch of the Beds and Herts Regiment Association of the Royal Anglian Regiment. Aims: To further the comradeship of ex-servicemen. Age range: older people.
- Hemel Hempstead Beds Herts
BEDFORDSHIRE AND HERTFORDSHIRE REGIMENT MUSEUM COLLECTION
- The Beds and Herts Regiment Museum Collection covers the Boer War to World War II period. It is open at the usual Wardown Park Museum opening hours. Admission is free. Disabled access. Bedfordshire and Luton Archives and Records Service holds the Regimental Archives. BLARS, Riverside Building, Borough Hall, Bedford, MK42 9AP, Tel: 01234 228833, website: www.bedford.gov.uk.
- Luton Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE AND LUTON ARCHIVES AND RECORDS SERVICE
- Preserves, promotes and makes publicly available the constantly evolving written archive heritage of Bedfordshire and Luton comprising records dating from 1166 to the present.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE AND LUTON BIODIVERSITY RECORDING AND MONITORING CENTRE
- The BRMC aims to become the "one-stop shop" for biodiversity information within Bedfordshire and Luton and is gathering biological records covering all species and habitats within the county, in order to make them available to those with a need to know. Click on the 'Sites' tab for a section on wildlife sites in Bedfordshire and Luton, providing information and further web links.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE AND LUTON CASUALTY REDUCTION PARTNERSHIP
- "Preventing road traffic collisions and reducing the casualty toll on our roads is a complex business. The Casualty Reduction Partnership brings together key agencies with responsibility for safety on our roads." (website). The members of the partnership are Bedford Borough Council, Central Bedfordshire Council, Luton Borough Council, the Highways Agency, Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service, Bedfordshire Police and Her Majesty's Courts Service.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE AND LUTON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
- "The Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation is a grant maker supporting local community groups and charities. It encourages philanthropy and its funds come from local businesses and individuals and from national charities and organisations which recognise our skills and local knowledge." (website)
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE AND LUTON MIND
- Bedfordshire and Luton Mind aims to offer friendship, respect, opportunity and choices to improve the lives of people with a range of mental health needs. Previously known as The Befrienders.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE AREA COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY ASSOCIATION (BACPA)
- A support group for counsellors and therapists. Membership is open to any counsellor or psychotherapist living within Bedfordshire or the surrounding area.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE ASSOCIATION OF CHURCH BELLRINGERS
- The Association includes over 90 towers in Bedfordshire and has around 400 members. The three Districts within the Association cover different parts of the county: Bedford in the north, Biggleswade in the east and Luton in the south. There is also a Young Ringers section.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE ASSOCIATION OF CRICKET OFFICIALS (BACO)
- Runs training courses for people to become qualified as cricket umpires and scorers. Email or phone for further information or to book a place on a course. Previously the BEDFORDSHIRE ASSOCIATION OF CRICKET UMPIRES AND SCORERS (BACUS). All ages. Membership fee: £5.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE ASSOCIATION OF TOWN AND PARISH COUNCILS
- Bedfordshire Association of Town and Parish Council offers advice, support, training and representation to parish and town councils in Bedfordshire.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE BASKETMAKERS
- "Speakers/demonstrators: We give a very informative one hour talk and demonstration to clubs and groups. We cover the history, tools, willow varieties, colours and weaves. The demonstration includes weaving various stages of a basket, base, upset siding, border and a rope handle. Also making hand twisted willows. We take along a selection of our products that are available for purchase. Our fee for 2011 is £50, with an additional 37p per mile for travel costs."
- Stanbridge Leighton Buzzard Leighton Linslade Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE BAT GROUP
- The Bedfordshire Bat Group was formed in 1988 and is affiliated to the Bedfordshire Natural History Society and the national organisation, The Bat Conservation Trust. The Bat Group works for bat conservation within Bedfordshire and Luton, carries out surveys of bats and maintains a database of bat records, works with people to provide information and raise awareness of bat conservation and, when necessary, carries out bat care and rehabilitation. Membership fee: £8 per year.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION
- To ensure the future of beekeeping and educate the general public about the importance of bees. For beginners & experienced beekeepers. As beekeeping relies on fine weather it is not possible to give firm dates for meetings. All ages. Membership fee: £10.
- Maulden Bedford Luton Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE BIRD CLUB
- Programme of winter indoor meetings, all year field meetings (various sites). The club also runs various surveys on the birds of Bedfordshire. A section of the Bedfordshire Natural History Society. All ages. Membership fees: £17 Ordinary Members (£5 Associate Members), Senior Citizens £11.00, £36 Corporate Members, £8.00 Students (over 18, under 18 free).
- Maulden Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE BLUE RAIDERS
- An American Football team based in Bedford. Senior and Youth teams.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE BRIDGE ASSOCIATION
- The BBA is responsible for organising competitive Duplicate Bridge activities within Bedfordshire.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE BUSINESSWOMEN (BBW)
- Founded in 1988, BBW is a not-for-profit networking organisation for women who live and/or have business interests in the county. Aims to promote the business interests of women in the county.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE CHILD POVERTY ACTION GROUP (BEDS CPAG)
- Local branch of the national charity which campaigns against family and child poverty. Aims to keep child poverty issues on the local political agenda and to campaign to try to eradicate child poverty. Members' newsletter. Membership is free. Covers Bedfordshire.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE CLIMATE CHANGE FORUM (BCCF)
- "The Forum is open to all individuals and organisations who are concerned about climate change and have a vision of a sustainable energy future." (website.)
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE COUNTY ARCHERY ASSOCIATION (BCAA)
- The governing body for the sport of archery in the county of Bedfordshire which operates under the auspices of the Grand National Archery Society and the Southern Counties Archery Society. The object of the Association is to promote and encourage the sport of archery, to help in the creation and maintenance of archery clubs and facilities and to ensure that the views of archers in the county are heeded at regional and national level.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE COUNTY CARPET BOWLS ASSOCIATION (BCCBA)
- This is a countywide association of 17 carpet bowls clubs. It is the first point of contact for enquiries about the game and the Secretary can put people in touch with their nearest club. Carpet Bowls is played on a mat 30 feet long, not to be confused with Short Mat Bowls which is played on mats 45 feet long. Its shorter length of mat makes the game easier to accommodate in village halls. Age range: 10 years upwards. Membership fees vary between clubs. Disabled access.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE COUNTY WOMEN'S BOWLING ASSOCIATION
- Ladies governing body in Bedfordshire for Bowls England (BE) - outdoor bowls. Co-ordination of bowling clubs within Bedfordshire. Organisation of the competition to qualify for the national championships. Organisation of other social bowling events. Age range: 8 plus. Club affiliation: £10.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE CRICKET BOARD
- The governing body for cricket in Bedfordshire.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD (LCJB)
- The website of the Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board provides information and links to local criminal justice agencies, including the Courts, CPS, Youth Offending Services, Prisons Service, Victim support and Bedfordshire Probation Trust.
BEDFORDSHIRE DOWN'S SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP
- Provides support, information & advice to people with the condition, their parents, families & interested healthcare professionals. Also aims to champion the rights of children with Down's Syndrome & improve their lot. Regular informal meetings to discuss & exchange ideas, & to arrange outings & other social events. Age range is from birth, but most members are school age. Membership fee: £10 optional.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE DRAMA ASSOCIATION
- The Bedfordshire Drama Association is open to all amateur groups in Bedfordshire which are involved in stage productions. The association runs the annual One-Act Drama Festival.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE DRUG AND ALCOHOL TEAM (B:DAT) (BDAT)
- Bedfordshire Drug and Alcohol Action Team (B:DAT) is the umbrella organisation for coordinating all drug and alcohol services in the county.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY
- Brings together those interested in family history, genealogy and heraldry, primarily - but not exclusively - in Bedfordshire. Many members have interests in other counties. All ages. Membership fee: £10 and £2 joining fee. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE FEDERATION OF YOUNG FARMERS' CLUBS
- You do not have to be a farmer to join Young Farmers! A social club for young people with lots of fun activities. Seven clubs make up Bedfordshire YFC - Bedford, Biggleswade, Blunham, Leighton Buzzard, North Beds, Silsoe, Woburn - contact County Organiser for nearest club. Age range: 10-26 inclusive. Membership fee varies.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC SPEECH AND DRAMA
- Annual competitive music speech & drama festival held in March. Open to contestants from all over the UK. Syllabus can be downloaded from the website. Age range: 4 - senior citizens. Class entry fees.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION - FOOTBALL CLUBS
- Visit the Bedfordshire Football Association website to search for football clubs in Bedfordshire.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION - LOCAL FOOTBALL LEAGUES AND COMPETITIONS
- Visit the Bedfordshire Football Association website to search for information about local football leagues, competitions and tournaments.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION - REFEREERING
- Visit the Bedfordshire Football Association website for information about becoming a football referee.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
- Organises & co-ordinates Association Football in Bedfordshire. Produces annual directory of Beds football clubs, competitions and referees. Clubs pay affiliation fee. Organises coaching courses for officials and players. Provides support and advice in football development, including mini-soccer, girls and women's football and club development. Organises child protection courses. The Bedfordshire County Lounge (formerly known as the Peter Newton Pavilion) is available for hire throughout the year for family functions. See the website for details.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE FREEMASONS
- A social and fundraising society. Age range: 21 upwards. Membership fee: various.
- Kempston Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE GARDENS TRUST
- For Bedfordshire contact details and more information click on 'County Gardens Trusts'. The Bedfordshire Gardens Trust is part of a national organisation 'The Association of Gardens Trusts'.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE GEOLOGY GROUP
- A voluntary group involved in conservation of local geological sites throughout Bedfordshire. Check website for events details. The group organise public awareness days and lectures relating to Bedfordshire's geology. Age range: All. Membership fee: £7.50 pa. Previously known as Bedfordshire and Luton Geology Group
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE GOLF CLUB
- 18 hole championship course, 9 hole par three course and driving range open to the public. Age range: 10 upwards. Membership fees.
- Stagsden Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE GREEN BUSINESS NETWORK (GBN)
- GBN is a local environmental charity working with businesses and related organisations. "We work with our members to improve their business and environmental performance by adopting best practice. GBN promotes Corporate and Social Responsibility and the benefits to local communities." (website).
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE GUILD OF WEAVERS SPINNERS AND DYERS
- Spinning, weaving, dyeing and other crafts connected with wool - visitors very welcome. Demonstrations by arrangement. Membership fee: £15 pa plus meeting fee. Disabled access.
- Harlington Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE HERITAGE LIBRARY
- The collection covers the local history of Bedfordshire and includes the John Bunyan collections. The collection includes: Two John Bunyan collections: Frank Mott Harrison and George Offor; The Gentleman's Magazine; Notes and Queries (1849 to 1986).
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE HISTORICAL RECORD SOCIETY
- A record publishing society, issuing a volume of Bedfordshire local history interest annually (usually in the Autumn). Membership is open to all who have an interest in Bedfordshire history. An annual lecture on the subject of the current year's publication follows the September AGM. Details of volumes in print may be obtained from Dr Smart, Hon Secretary, (address above) or from the website. All ages. Membership fee: £12 (individual).
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE HOMEFINDER
- Bedfordshire Homefinder gives you information about housing association properties available in Bedford, Central Bedfordshire and Luton.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE HUMANISTS
- Bedfordshire Humanists meet monthly to explore together from an atheist perspective the implications, in theory and practice, of living in this world. They consider, on a rational basis, such issues as meaning and purpose in life, our place in the universe, what ethics apply and why, what are our rights and responsibilities, where to turn in times of need, and how to leave the world a little better than we found it. Age range: 18 upwards. Membership fees: £15 full, £10 concessions. Disabled access.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE LACE MORRIS
- Between May & September the side dances Cotswold Morris at fetes, WIs, pubs' folk festivals etc. Practice sessions each week in winter. The side welcome new and experienced female dancers and musicians (either male or female). Age range: teenage upwards. Membership fee: £25 per year. Disabled access to practice hall.
- Ampthill Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE LADIES COUNTY GOLF ASSOCIATION
- Aim is to promote competitive golf at both club and County level. All ages. Membership fee: £6 pa. To qualify for full membership of BLCGA, the applicant must be a playing member of an affiliated Bedfordshire club. Disabled access at most clubs.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE LINK (LOCAL INVOLVEMENT NETWORK) (CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE AREA)
- Local Involvement Networks or LINks give local people, groups and communities the chance work together to improve local health and social care services. LINks members sit of health planning groups, they monitor services and have the power to hold services to account. Local Involvement Networks (LINks) replaced patient forums in April 2008. Bedfordshire LINk is supported by Voluntary Action Luton.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE LOCAL HISTORY ASSOCIATION (BLHA)
- BLHA promotes the study of local history within and around Bedfordshire, and provides a forum for discussion and co-operation between interested groups and individuals. Membership open to societies and individuals. Membership fees: £5 individual, £10 society and other bodies.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE LTA (LAWN TENNIS ASSOCIATION)
- For contact details and a list of tennis clubs and tournaments in Bedfordshire. Bedfordshire LTA has combined with 4 other counties (Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire and Suffolk) in the East to support tennis across the area.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE ME SUPPORT GROUP
- Local informal self help group meets over tea & coffee to exchange ideas & help with problems concerned with M.E. Mainly adults, but children also now getting in touch, as well as parents, carers, relatives, friends. All ages. No membership fee but donations are welcomed. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE MENIERE'S SUPPORT GROUP
- Aims to support those suffering from & those caring for sufferers of Meniere's Disease (symptoms: vertigo plus tinnitus plus deafness and other vesibular conditions). Don't suffer alone, join us now. Write for more info (include an sae). Help & information to get you through the most difficult times; advice from other sufferers. All members are advised by post or email. Home visits may be arranged. All ages. Membership fee: £6 sufferer, £2 carer/supporter.
- Roxton Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE MOTH GROUP
- A group devoted to encouraging interest in, and recording of, moths in Bedfordshire. Part of the Bedfordshire Natural History Society.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY (BNHS)
- For all interested in studying & recording the natural history of the county. Non-members of all ages welcome to indoor & field meetings. Membership fees: £17.00 Ordinary Members (£5.00 Associate Members), £36.00 Corporate Members, £11.00 Senior Citizens, £.8.00 Students (over 18, under 18 free). Annual subscription includes "The Muntjac" & "Bedfordshire Naturalist".
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE PCT WHEELCHAIR SERVICE
- This is a free service for people with long-term mobility difficulties living in Bedfordshire. For more information please visit the website and click on 'Your Services' then 'A-Z of servces' and select W. For short term wheelchair hire contact: The Information Service, Disability Resource Centre, Poynters Road, Dunstable LU5 4AP Tel: 01582 470900.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE POLICE - DOMESTIC ABUSE
- This part of the Bedfordshire Police website gives information about contacting the Police and other agencies dealing with domestic violence and abuse. It lists phone numbers for local refuges.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE POLICE - HATE INCIDENTS AND CRIME
- This part of the Bedfordshire Police website gives information about hate incidents and crime and how to report a hate incident to the Police.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE POLICE PARTNERSHIP TRUST
- Partnership between Bedfordshire Police and local businesses, giving small grants to develop community projects. Also runs the Bobby Scheme, giving support to elderly or vulnerable people. Any group can apply for funding, but the main aim is to allow local beat officers & other members of the police directly involved with the community to develop good ideas. Normally projects will be based around crime prevention, road safety & drugs awareness, but applications will also be considered for other sound ideas. Businesses may join the partnership at a cost of £250 pa.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE POLICE
- In an emergency call: 999 or 112 from a mobile phone. For non-emergency calls please ring 01234 841212 or text your message to 07786 200011. (All link directly to call handling centre.) RNID Typetalk: In an emergency call: 18000; For non-emergency calls please ring 18001 01234 841212.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE PROGRESSIVE SYNAGOGUE
- A progressive Jewish Congregation affiliated to Liberal Judaism. All ages. Membership fees vary. Disabled access at the Luton venue.
- Luton Bedford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE RAYNET GROUP
- General amateur radio activities in support of the overall aim "to be ready to provide a viable radio comunications facility within the community in the event of a disaster or breakdown of fixed systems". Age range: 14 - 85. No membership fees
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE ROAD CYCLING CLUB
- Activities: Cycling for all abilities and interests; Time trials for all abilities; Training in our GoRide scheme for 6 to 16 year olds; Cyclo-Cross racing off-road; Social and public events. Age range: all ages. Membership fee: £20 per annum. Disabled access: no.
- Cardington Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE RURAL COMMUNITIES CHARITY (BRCC)
- Aims to encourage thriving, diverse and sustainable rural communities. A small team of staff provide a friendly, informal service. Advice & support to parish councils, village hall committees & individuals on rural services, housing, homelessness, transport, village halls, playing fields. Other activities: training, care schemes, village appraisals, Funderfinder database. Umbrella body for criminal records checking. Imaging and design services available for local business and community groups. Membership fees: £20 (individuals), £35 (voluntary or community groups), £60-£240 (organisations, depending on number of employees). Reductions available for five year membership.
- Cardington Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE RURAL TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP (BRCC)
- A countywide body that seeks to improve transport provision in rural areas in response to needs identified by the local community. The Partnership's Forum is open to all transport providers, user groups & stakeholders. Members of the public are welcome to attend (please notify Stephen Sleight in advance). The Partnership operates a Youth Bus for young people aged between 12 and 17 in Central Beds. The Community Transport Brokerage scheme provides opportunities for groups with vehicles to offer them for use by organisations with no transport.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE SCHOOL OF DANCE AND DRAMA
- Ballet, tap, modern theatre dance, tap, street jazz, drama and musical theatre. Age range: 3-20. Fees payable per term. Disabled access.
- Flitwick Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE SCOUT ASSOCIATION - COUNTY OFFICE
- Contact the County Office for details of local groups of Beavers, Cubs and Scouts in Bedfordshire and Luton. For more information see the Bedfordshire Scouts County website. Aims: To assist young people to achieve their full potential as individuals, responsible citizens & members of their local, national & international communities. Promotes their development by providing an enjoyable & attractive scheme of progressive training based on the Scout Promise & Law & guided by adult leadership. Ages 6 to 25. Membership fee (variable).
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE SCOUT ASSOCIATION - SEA SCOUTS (7TH/94TH BEDFORD)
- Scouting & water activities: canoeing, rowing, sailing, power boating, camping expeditions. Open to girls & boys. Age range: 6-14. Beaver Colony & Cub Pack for younger children & Scout Troop Unit for those aged up to 14. Fee: £8 per month, plus annual registration fee of £35. Disabled access.
- Bedford Kempston Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE SCRAPBOOKING CLUBS
- Making photo memory albums (scrapbooking) to preserve family stories. Learn how to display photos and keep them safe. Tutor in attendance and all tools provided. Ages 14 upwards. Fees: Evenings £5, Saturday from £10 all day. Disabled access.
- Bedford Leighton Buzzard Leighton Linslade Hitchin Milton Keynes Aylesbury Beds Bucks Herts
BEDFORDSHIRE SKATING SCHOOL CLUB
- The club organises teaching young people how to skateboard and in-line skate. Lessons are free. Equipment (skateboards, skates etc.) is provided for free use. Age range for lessons: 4-12 years. Instructors are older teenagers, 13 years upwards. No membership fee. Please contact for more information.
- Bedford Sandy Biggleswade Potton Shefford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE SQUASH RACKETS ASSOCIATION
- The body responsible for the development of squash in the county.
- Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
- Formed in 1967, the orchestra aims to provide an opportunity for good amateur players to rehearse and perform to a high standard on a regular seasonal basis.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE RESCUE
- Please do not email with details of injured animals as email may only be checked once a day.
BEDFORDSHIRE WING CHUN KUEN - BEDFORD
- Wing Chun Kung Fu is a logical, scientific, yet simple Chinese martial art system which was developed for practical and effective self defence, alongside fitness, for people of all ages. This is a result-oriented martial art known for its efficiency and economy of movement which was developed for survival, self defence and damage limitation, rather than purely for attack. Wing Chun's simple and direct short range simultaneous attack and defence hand techniques, its use of only low kicks and its simple but evasive footwork combined with its logical and scientific methodology are the reason it is fast becoming one of the most popular Chinese martial arts around the world. Age range: 13 upwards. Membership upon invitation. Disabled access.
- Bedford Beds
BEDFORDSHIRE WING CHUN KUEN - LUTON
- Wing Chun Kung Fu is a logical, scientific, yet simple Chinese martial art system which was developed for practical and effective self defence, alongside fitness, for people of all ages. This is a result-oriented martial art known for its efficiency and economy of movement which was developed for survival, self defence and damage limitation, rather than purely for attack. Wing Chun's simple and direct short range simultaneous attack and defence hand techniques, its use of only low kicks and its simple but evasive footwork combined with its logical and scientific methodology are the reason it is fast becoming one of the most popular Chinese martial arts around the world. Age range: 13 upwards. Membership upon invitation. Disabled access.
- Luton Beds
Page last updated: 03/02/12
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