From favourite places to visit to hidden gems, over the next 12 months Bedford Borough Council will be shouting about what’s great where we all live in a new regular feature.
Every councillor is being invited to answer questions about their ward, from the best places to shop, socialise or spend a lazy Sunday, to facts that you might not know or dates that you should put in your diary.
This week it’s the turn of Councillor Alison Foster, who represents Harrold ward.
Describe Harrold Ward in five words or less.
The best part of Bedfordshire.
Where is your favourite place to eat in Harrold Ward and why?
There are a few of great places but if I had to pick one it would be The Oakley Arms in Harrold, run by chef-owners Andy and Lizzie Slater. They produce the most delicious and beautifully presented meals using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. I know beyond any doubt that I will always have the best meal at the Oakley Arms.
Where is your favourite place to go for a drink in Harrold Ward and why?
I love the Bell at Odell for its homely atmosphere, olde-world charm and friendly service. There’s always someone there to chat to ,even if you’re alone.
Tell us a great place for a family to visit in Harrold Ward.
Beyond any shadow of doubt the Harrold and Odell Country Park and Nature Reserve with its lakes, meadows and woodland, 144 acres - all expertly and loving maintained by its park rangers and the amazing group of volunteers who turn up come rain or shine to make it one of the best places in the county to visit. Although called the Harrold and Odell Country Park it is actually situated within the Odell Parish boundaries.
What is a hidden gem in Harrold Ward?
Saxby’s Cider taproom and shop at Grange Farm, Farndish (often mistaken for being in Northants, it is in fact one of the most northerly villages in Bedfordshire). The different ciders are delicious and there are events throughout the year like the Summer and Christmas fairs, classic car meet and PYO pumpkins, along with the regular pub quiz, music events, tastings and tours.
What is a great club or group in Harrold Ward?
The United Service Club in Podington. A small friendly club which hosts regular varied and fun events throughout the year ranging from live music, quizzes, pumpkin carving, conker tournaments and themed evenings such a Texas Cornhole tournament. It is also home to a variety of games including darts, skittles, pool table and bingo every fortnight. A great place to go for a fun evening and friendly chat.
What has been your favourite change that you have seen in Harrold Ward in recent years?
It has to be the refurbishment of the Harrold Centre which was completed in 2017 and expanded the facilities making it an attractive, light, clean and airy building suitable for welcoming a wide range of community activities and a great venue for theatrical productions, film nights, and a wide variety of village entertainments. I recommend the Sunday Brunch held on the first Sunday of each month!
What is the highlight of the calendar year in Harrold Ward?
Undoubtedly the Harrold Pit Run. This has been running (excuse the pun) for over 40 years and attracts runners from far and wide to complete over a three-mile course around the lakes in the Harrold Country Park, with classes for children of varying ages and adults alike there is something for everybody and the non-runners can enjoy the wide variety of stalls attracted by the event.