Over 40 events were held across Bedford Borough during the week, including lots of litter picks and museum events which were all very well attended despite the rain.

27 bicycles were serviced for free at Bedford Central Library and there was much plant and craft stash swapping taking place at Putnoe Library and Panacea Museum.

A big thank you goes to the 9 volunteers who litter picked along Riverfield Drive in the rain on 15 June!  The next Riverfield Drive area litter pick event takes place on 10 August (10.30am to 12pm, meeting at Lindisfarne Priory green).

The River Festival attracts around 300,000 visitors over a single weekend and we have the huge task of cleaning the area after Saturdays festivities ready for visitors on Sunday – this is where we are seeking your help.

If you are able to pop down to Russell Park on the morning of Sunday 21 July from 6.30am to help us with the big tidy up, we would welcome and greatly appreciate your support!

All equipment will be provided, please wear study footwear.

With lots of different garden maintenance tasks to get involved in, from planting and clearing, to woodwork. No experience necessary. Sessions take place every Friday from 12pm to 2pm.

The Green Man Community Garden is located at the back of Addison Park, near to The Grange/Pigeon Club.
Free parking is available next to the garden.

Every month we hold a Conservation Task Day led by a member of the park staff. This is for people who can only commit to one day a month. It also enables people interested in becoming a volunteer to sample what is involved. Upcoming dates of task days are Monday 29 July and Monday 19 August.

There are also opportunities to take part in conservation tasks on a more regular basis. Volunteers can be found working in the park between 9am and 3pm, Monday through Thursday.

Come and join them, and help with practical work such as habitat management, tree planting and hedge work.

Refreshments, gloves & tools provided but a packed lunch, sturdy footwear (steel toe cap boots preferable) and suitable outdoor clothing needed.

If you are interested, please speak to Ed Green on 07585 908821.

Bedford Borough Libraries are seeking people aged 14-18 to help this summer with the Summer Reading Challenge.

Tasks include helping children join the challenge, talking to them about books and handing out rewards in Bedford Central, Bromham, Kempston, Putnoe and Wootton libraries

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, learn new skills and gain valuable work experience and keep you busy over the long summer holidays.

For more information ask at your local library or email via the link below.