The rapid Coronavirus testing centre is moving to Faraday Community Centre to enable the reopening of the John Bunyan Sports & Fitness Centre for leisure activities.

At 7pm on Thursday 6 May 2021, rapid testing at the John Bunyan Sports & Fitness Centre will stop before starting again at a new rapid testing centre, located at the Faraday Community Centre, from 7am on Tuesday 11 May.

Polls are now open for today's Police and Crime Commissioner election. Polls will stay open until 10pm.

Liberal Democrat candidate Jas Parmar's priorities, if elected, are:
- Visible community policing to tackle the menace of anti-social behaviour and speeding.
- A multi-agency approach to tackle violent and youth crime and causes of crime.
- Supporting victims of crime as a priority and supporting the Police in delivering safer neighbourhoods.
- Fairer funding for our Police to fight crime in urban and rural Bedfordshire.

In a new video published on Facebook this evening, Jas Parmar has delivered a message from the campaign trail, in Captain Sir Tom Moore's village of Marston Moretaine. On a day featuring sunshine, hail, wind - 'the lot', says Jas - Jas issues a reminder of his experience and track record as a police officer, businessman, volunteer, local representative and more.

The election for the Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner will take place on Thursday 6 May. Make sure you cast your vote and make your voice heard.

There will be Coronavirus safety measures in place at polling stations, to help you stay safe. These will include social distancing and when you go inside, you will be expected to wear a face covering like you do when you go into shops or on public transport (unless exempt).

A major new report has highlighted the 'overwhelming case' for full electrification of both East West Rail and the Midland Mainline, say Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats.

In its comprehensive report, 'Why Rail Electrification?', the Railway Industry Association concludes that for rail to contribute to the UK's aim of net-zero carbon by 2050, a rolling programme of electrification is needed now to tackle a vast backlog of works required. The report finds that electrification is a good investment both financially and environmentally, and that while alternatives such as battery or hydrogen powered lines will have some part to play on the network, they cannot replace conventional electrification.

Throughout this week, the Royal Horticultural Society and others have been promoting National Gardening Week and the many health and environmental benefits of looking after and enjoying gardens. You can find out more about National Gardening Week and this year's theme - which is to encourage people to 'Get Your Dose of Vitamin G' - on the RHS website here: https://www.rhs.org.uk/get-involved/national-gardening-week/