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08/09/2026

What started as a few words of advice about running challenges ended with Deputy Lieutenant Nick Kier joining Paul Lockyer for eleven miles of an extraordinary effort.

Paul, Chair of Trustees at Embrace (formerly Bedford Cerebral Palsy Society), ran 100 miles over four days to raise vital funds for the charity.

On Friday, the second leg took Paul from Biggleswade to Leighton Buzzard, where Nick Kier DL had the privilege of congratulating him on behalf of the Lord-Lieutenant at a civic reception marking the half way stage of his remarkable challenge

Day three saw Paul run to Bedford and on day four he completed his challenge by running the half marathon at the Bedford Running Festival.

Huge congratulations to Paul on this fantastic achievement, and thanks to everyone who supported him. His dedication will help Embrace Charity continue providing essential support to children, young people and adults with disabilities across Bedfordshire.

Leighton-Linslade Town Council Official
Biggleswade Town Council

07/09/2026

In August the Lieutenancy took part in three citizenship ceremonies; although quieter than usual, we still welcomed over 80 new citizens to Bedfordshire. Huge thanks to the DLs, registrars and staff whose hard work ensures each ceremony runs smoothly and feels so special for those becoming citizens.

Luton Council
Central Bedfordshire Council

04/09/2026

CYCD (Centre for Youth and Community Development Luton) hosted a year-end celebration to recognise their learners’ successes as they complete programmes and prepare for the next chapter. Hannan Ali DL was delighted to attend with the Mayor of Luton to present certificates, and—having taken part in a programme himself—was honoured to return and share his journey with the attendees.

03/09/2026

Marked officially in 2000, Merchant Navy Day recognises the men and women of the merchant fleet who kept vital supply routes open during both World Wars and continues to celebrate the vital role seafarers play in global trade and everyday life. On 3 September we pay tribute to those who lost their lives at sea while carrying out their work and honour the service and sacrifice of merchant seafarers.

The day also highlights the country’s ongoing reliance on these crews: today the Merchant Navy delivers more than 90% of the UK’s imports and exports. Composed of commercial trading vessels and their crews, these ships fly the Red Ensign. In 2015 The Seafarers’ Charity launched the Fly the Red Ensign for Merchant Navy Day campaign to tackle “sea blindness” and provide a visible way for the public to recognise and thank seafarers for their contribution.

02/09/2026

The Lord-Lieutenant was pleased to accept an invitation last week to view the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment collection at Wardown House in Luton. The collection is split between Wardown House, Luton (medals, uniforms, weapons and artefacts) and Bedfordshire Archives, Bedford (papers and photographs).

The Regimental Gallery at Wardown House, established in 1979, charts the regiment’s story from 1688 until its 1958 amalgamation and houses an engaging array of objects generously donated by veterans and their families over the years.

Photograph 1 features the unusual Owen Grogan coconut water-bottle, discovered in the Australian bush around 1860 and presented to the regiment in 1906—likely their earliest recorded donation. The coconut is incised with the regimental crest and the name “Owen Grogan”; a silver mount was added later. Two 19th-century veterans named Owen Grogan, both Irish, are possible owners of the bottle.

Photograph 2 depicts the chance meeting of the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the Bedfordshire Regiment at Locre, Belgium, on 6 November 1914 during the battle of Ypres; the image shown is a portion of Joseph Gray’s painting of that encounter.

To arrange a visit, please contact [email protected]

01/09/2026

Nominations for The King's Award for Voluntary Service are now open. If you know a voluntary group in Bedfordshire that deserves this fantastic recognition, find out more at https://buff.ly/Gn8Ncj3 and get ready to nominate!

30/08/2026

There are now just under two weeks left to submit your application for a King’s Award for Enterprise. Whether you’re leading innovation, expanding international trade, improving social mobility, championing sustainable development, or you’re a young founder, this is your opportunity to win the UK’s most prestigious business honour.

Past recipients say the award can:
* Boost your profile
* Unlock new opportunities
* Give you the right to use the King’s Awards emblem for five years

Deadline for applications: midday, 8 September.

Find out more on https://buff.ly/gsZTwDT

27/08/2026

At the weekend, Deputy Lieutenant Mark Ormerod was delighted to join Crawley Green Sports and Social Club for an event celebrating the pioneers of women’s football.

Crawley Green hosted a tribute recognising Harry and June Batt’s vital role in developing the women’s game in England. Luton resident Keith Batt, their son, unveiled a plaque honouring his parents’ foresight in forming Chiltern Valley Ladies, a team that became the core of the Lost Lionesses who took part in the unofficial women’s World Cup in 1971. That squad played at Mexico’s Azteca Stadium in front of an estimated 90,000 spectators. The recent film Copa 71, executively produced by Venus and Serena Williams, has helped bring those players’ stories to wider attention, and several members of the Lost Lionesses were present at the commemoration.

The occasion recognised the enduring impact of Harry and June Batt, whose commitment created opportunities for women and girls to play football during a time when the women's game faced major obstacles and little support.

Speaking at the event, Keith paid tribute to his parents’ vision and determination, highlighting how their hard work helped build the foundations for the flourishing women’s game seen across the country today.

The ceremony brought together local residents, football fans, and guests to celebrate the exceptional achievements of Harry and June Batt and their lasting place in the history of English women’s football.

(Photo Credit Andy Willsher)

26/08/2026

The Lieutenancy would like to wish HRH The Duke of Gloucester a very happy birthday today. We’re grateful for the Royal Family’s ongoing service and the encouragement they offer to communities across the United Kingdom.

25/08/2026

Highlighting the Lord-Lieutenant's patronages: Country Days

“Country Days captures something truly special as it gives young people the opportunity to laugh, explore, discover and learn in the beauty of the countryside.

Through imaginative outdoor learning, children are encouraged to connect with nature, develop new skills and create wonderful memories. These experiences can nurture curiosity and a lasting understanding and appreciation of the natural world.

I am incredibly proud to be Patron of a charity that inspires such confidence and joy in every child it welcomes. I am also deeply grateful to the trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters whose dedication makes this work possible.” - HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Mrs Susan Lousada.

Find out more: www.countrydays.net

Address

HM Lord-Lieutenant Of Bedfordshire C/o The Lieutenancy Office Priory House Monks Walk
Shefford
SG175TQ

Telephone

+443003006090

Website

https://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/info/34/hm_lord-lieutenant_of_bedfordshire

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