Music in the Meadows is returning to the newly renovated Mill Meadows Bandstand on Bedford’s riverside this Sunday (8 August).
For the next five weeks, there will be a two-hour performance of traditional bandstand music from 3pm to 5pm, every Sunday on Mill Meadows (near the Suspension Bridge).
Everyone is welcome and the event is completely free to attend.
Dates for your diary
Sunday 8 August- Bedford Town Band
Sunday 15 August- May Blossom Vintage Songbird
Sunday 22 August- Bedford Town Band
Sunday 29 August- Milton Keynes Brass
Sunday 5 September- Fynnius Fogg
Funding for the bandstand’s renovation came from the Government Towns Fund. The structure was fully refurbished and redecorated, including the replacement of two sections of railings by skilled craftspeople to match the originals.
The refurbishment will ensure the bandstand is available to use for many years to come.
The Council was awarded £1m Accelerated Funding from the Government in September 2020. As well as the Mill Meadows Bandstand renovation, this funding has contributed to a secure bike storage shelter near Harpur Square and public realm enhancements to Silver Street Square.
More recently the Council was awarded £22.6m through the Town Deal with projects including regeneration of the Station Quarter and Midland Road, public realm improvements to St. Paul’s Square, and improvements to town centre junctions and local pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “I am really looking forward to opening the Bandstand on Sunday. It is great to see the Music in the Meadows event back to our riverside, it is always such an enjoyable event. Bring the family, pack a picnic and a blanket, and settle in for a great atmosphere.
“There is lots happening in Bedford this weekend, with the Bedford Flea at St Paul’s Square, Jamaican Independence celebrations, and the Harriers’ Triathlon.
Read: Celebrate Jamaican Independence Day in Bedford with a host of familiar faces
“With life slowly returning to normal, Bedford is always a fantastic place to visit with lots going on.
“While it is great to see these steps back to normality, remember COVID-19 has not gone away. Remember, it’s always safer to meet up with people outdoors, and if you haven’t already please make sure you get both doses of your COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can.”
