In keeping with this month’s pub theme, the Bedford Clanger’s February Great Bedfordian is Ronnie Toms, the landlord of the Devonshire Arms on Dudley Street.
As a trained actor, Ronnie has appeared on TV and in films but says his first love is theatre. A Bedfordian since 1998, Ronnie and his wife Rebecca have two children, Joe and Phoebe, who he describes as “two of the best human beings I know”.
“I grew up in a working men’s club as I was brought up by my grandfather, who was the club chairman for 25 years, so I guess pubs are in my blood,” said Ronnie.
“I’m a season ticket holder at The Bedford Blues, and you’ll often see and hear me cheering on the team at Goldington Road, and I’m also a big Arsenal fan. COYG!”
Born here or blow in? Blown in from St.Albans via Hitchin, (although Bedford has been my home longer)
Best breakfast? It has to be The Wendover Cafe on Wendover Drive – it’s saved my bacon many times.
Best boozer? Haha! Of course, I’ve got to say The Devvy, but other notable establishments are The Welly, The Flowerpot and The Castle, although I don’t get to frequent them as much as I’d like.
Best coffee or cuppa? Rebecca and I try to go for a walk around the river at least once a week, and we always stop off at The Longholme for a good coffee.
Best takeaway? Blimey, it depends on what you fancy. Chinese: Shanghai Kitchen on Tavistock Street; Thai: Siam Heaven on The Broadway; pizza: La Rotunda on Wendover Drive; kebab: Kempston Kebab; Indian: Radhuni on the Embankment. That’s your weekend sorted…
Best gig? I’ve been to many great gigs at the brilliant Esquires, but Tom Jones at Bedford Park steals it for me. Legend!
Ever read The Pilgrim’s Progress? No. I’m an avid reader, but never got around to it.
Ever eaten a Bedfordshire Clanger? Sadly not. Are they still available?
Hidden gem? This one’s easy for me as I’ve spent a lot of time here. The Place Theatre on Bradgate Road is a great community hub, and you’ll see some great live theatre. Get along, you won’t be sorry.
Great Bedfordian? Again, easy for me, it’s my wife Rebecca, a born and bred Bedfordian. She’s simply the glue that holds it all together.
Three words to sum up Bedford: England’s best secret.
