I launched the Council's new 'Buy in Campaign' at Podington Garden Centre last week. I have set up this campaign in order to support our local businesses right across the Borough. During these difficult economic times, it is important that we support our local traders, and buying locally helps our local economy, helps to sustain and enhance our communities and is also good for the environment, of course.
The Victorian Christmas Fair is underway, with stalls in Harpur Square, Midland Road and, for the first time ever, along a temporarily pedestrianised High Street! The Fair runs until Sunday, and I would encourage everyone to get along and experience it. There is a huge range of stalls, some great entertainment and lots to do for all the family. I am hoping lots of people come in to experience the fair this weekend and do their Christmas shopping in town, as we continue our campaign to encourage people to 'Buy in Bedford!'
A campaign to encourage and promote shopping in Bedford Borough will be officially launched by the Mayor, Dave Hodgson on Wednesday 1st December.
Designated drivers celebrating the festive season in Bedford town centre this Christmas and New Year can ask for a wristband entitling them to free soft drinks.
With these freezing temperatures set to stay with us for at least the rest of the week, my priority is obviously to make sure the Council is doing all it can to help people stay safe and to keep the Borough moving during the cold weather. As far as keeping the Borough moving is concerned, we managed to beat the national grit shortage by locating a supply of salt in Sweden in the summer, and we have gone into this winter with 133% more grit than our previous maximum stock level. The gritters have been out 6 nights in the past seven, and you can find out when and where they will be gritting (along with information on school transport and any school closure information) at www.bedford.gov.uk/wintergritting or by following @grittertweets on Twitter.
The latest 'Pints in the Parishes' event is taking place tonight, at The Swan in Bromham from around 7.30pm. If you're in the area, please come along and let me know about any issues or concerns you have about your local area, Council services or anything at all you want to discuss.
