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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.

Child at the top of a Helter Skelter peering down at a big crowd at Bedford River Festival

Planning on coming to the River Festival this weekend? Here’s how you can get there

With hundreds of thousands of visitors expected to attend the Bedford River Festival this weekend (20 and 21 July), everyone is encouraged to plan their trip in advance...
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Summer vaccination clinics in Bedford Borough

Children whose vaccinations are not up to date can attend any one of a series of clinics over the summer. Venues across Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes are hosting the catch-up...
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The John Bunyan Boat passing under the Suspension Bridge on the River Great Ouse, Bedford. Image: John Bunyan Community Boat

Bedford attraction wins Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2024

The John Bunyan Community Boat has been recognized in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2024. The award honours businesses that consistently earn great...
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Image: Bedford Credit Union

Bedford Credit Union launches PrizeSaver Account

Bedford Credit Union (BCU), the not-for-profit community bank, owned by its members who live or work in Bedfordshire, has announced that they are now a part of the national PrizeSaver...
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Gold postbox with crochet topper

Bedford’s stolen Crown Jewels replaced in time for Jubilee

Less than a week after the Bedford Independent reported on the theft of the Jubilee post box topper from Bedford High Street, its creator, Steph has crocheted…
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Community Minded Business

Celebrating the month of community in Bedford

Bedford Borough Council is hosting a selection of events in June to celebrate national community month and spread recognition and thanks to volunteers and…
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Bedford charity celebrates £95,000 National Lottery funding

A charity based in Bedford is celebrating after being awarded over £95,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK. Gig Buddies...
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Blues Foundation and UoB launch project to improve Bedford’s physical and mental health

A project helping people to make positive lifestyle choices to benefit their physical and mental well-being has been launched by the Bedford’s Blues Foundation and….
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A summer of family-friendly fun ahead at the Harpur Centre

Last year, The Harpur Centre invited children to let their creativity run riot and they’re doing it all over again this year, with the launch of Kids Club activities…
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Year 9 students attend Youth Conference to inspire life outside of crime

Year 9 students from across Bedfordshire attended the county’s first-ever three day Youth Conference, hosted by the Bedfordshire Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner…
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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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