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28 August 2026
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Sophie Stapley

Sophie Stapley is a freelance journalist who writes for Progress Publishing titles.

Graduating with First-Class Honours Media Communication Culture BA(Hons) degree from Leeds Beckett University, Sophie was also awarded the Dean’s Award for academic excellence after receiving the highest dissertation score across media-related courses.

View from platrfom 1 at Bedford Station with a Thameslink train at platform 2 Image Bedford Independent

Bedford’s Thameslink trains to lose ‘ironing board’ seats as part of railway renationalisation

To the relief of long-suffering commuters, Thameslink have confirmed it will be removing its ‘ironing board’ seats following the renationalisation of the railways. As part of its rebranding...
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Canine Partners training volunteer with puppy

Canine Partners charity asks Bedfordians for their help to look after puppies 

Canine partners, the national charity that breeds, train and supports assistance dogs, is expanding and urgently needs dog-loving volunteers to help raise and train the next generation…
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Casablanca Hammam Spa exterior

Review: Inside Bedford’s Casablanca Hammam spa, bringing an ancient bathing tradition to the town

Stepping away from the bustle of Tavistock Street and into the bliss of Bedford's Hammam spa, the scent of incense filled the air, along with a soothing melody...
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Universal Globe at theme park. Image: Universal Destinations & Experiences

Mohammad Yasin MP joins regional leaders for Universal roundtable 

Mohammad Yasin (Labour) MP for Bedford and Kempston, joined DCMS Minister Stephanie Peacock MP and local authority leaders from across the region in Bedford for a…
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An Advanced Paramedic in Critical Care uses video technology to support and guide members of the public delivering CPR in an emergency

East of England ambulance service shortlisted for national award

The East of England ambulance service (EEAST) has been shortlisted for a national award for its innovative use of video technology to help save the lives of people experiencing…
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Anjulita Court

Manager of Bedford home to run Great North Run to raise money for MHA Anjulita Court

On September 13 Ernie and his partner Fiona will be running the great north run for the first time to raise funds for MHA Anjulita Court and MHA. Ernie Botley, a home manager at…
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A young woman receiving a vaccine injection from a healthcare worker. Image: PeopleImages/Shutterstock

As A Level results arrive, students urged to get second MenB jab before university starts

As thousands of young people begin to plan for life at university the NHS is encouraging them to make sure they are protected from Meningitis B. The infection can cause…
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Bedford Borough Hall Bedford Borough council signage and entrance

Change to come as an overhaul of homelessness services in Bedford Borough

The Government’s national plan to end homelessness has set out an ambition to reduce rough-sleeping and is encouraging councils to focus on early intervention and homelessness prevention...
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Bedford Borough wheelie bins for recycling, green waste and landfill

Nearly 12,000 tonnes recycled as Bedford Borough residents make a difference

Bedford Borough residents recycled an impressive 11,774 tonnes of household waste from April 2025 to the end of March 2026, helping to reduce disposal costs and protect…
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Bedford Junior Aquathlon from 2025

Bedford junior aquathlon returns to Bedford

The Bedford junior aquathlon returns Sunday 11 October, a swimming and running event for local schoolchildren. Now in its 20th year organised by Bedford Borough…
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Borough Hall. Image: Bedford Borough Council

Bedford Borough Council apologises and pays compensation after housing bidding blunder

Carers in Bedfordshire volunteer helping an older man with a jigsaw puzzle. Image Carers in Bedfordshire

Carers’ charity says its contract may have changed, but its commitment remains the same

Singer, actor, dancer and DJ Zoe Birkett is picuted sitting on the floor surrounded by DJ equipment ahead of her Diva Download show at MillFest

West End star Zoe Birkett talks MillFest, her 25-year career, and making a life in Bedfordshire

(l-) Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, known as Zandile, and daughters Nala and Natalie. Image: Supplied by Bedfordshire Police

Family of Great Denham murder victims release statement following Johannesburg hearing

Rochelle ‘Rocky’ Clark MBE joins Bedford Modern School (BMS) September 2021

Former England rugby star signs up as local CIC ambassador

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