Natalie Christian-John for Riverfield

31/05/2026

Strong families are the foundation of strong communities.

30/05/2026

What a lovely day! Natalie Christian-John for Riverfield, and Peter Davis are making the most of the sunshine at the wonderful Greek cafe - Cozy’s☀️☕. Wishing everyone a fab weekend filled with sunshine and smiles!

26/05/2026

Bedford Borough is set to experience another exceptionally hot day, with temperatures expected to reach well into the 30°C range. Following yesterday’s peak of 35°C in south‑east England, forecasters have warned that conditions today may be even hotter.

To protect frontline crews working in these challenging conditions, waste, food and recycling collections are currently starting earlier than usual.

During periods of extreme heat, start times are brought forward so that crews can complete as much work as possible before the hottest part of the day. Collecting heavy bins and loading vehicles while wearing protective equipment is physically demanding, and earlier start times help reduce the risk of heat‑related illness.

Every effort is made to complete all scheduled rounds each day. However, unforeseen issues such as vehicle breakdowns or unexpected staff shortages can mean that a round cannot be finished. If this happens, residents on the affected round will have their bin collected the following day and are asked to leave their bin out in its usual collection point overnight so crews can catch up as soon as possible.

You can help by:

Placing bins in their usual collection point the night before. This reduces the chance of a bin being missed if crews pass earlier than usual.

Tightly tying food waste bags and keeping lids closed securely with the handle up helps keep collections hygienic and reduces the risk of spills. With weekly food waste collections, food waste now sits in outdoor bins for less time, helping to minimise smells and improve hygiene in hot weather.

Parking carefully, badly parked vehicles can slow or block collections. Leaving enough space for a large vehicle to pass helps keep services running smoothly.

Crews are delivering an essential public service in difficult conditions. Courteous, patient behaviour makes a real difference to staff who are working hard to complete rounds safely and on time.

Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough, said, “Heatwave conditions make what is already a physically tough job even more demanding for our waste, food and recycling crews. We know how important reliable collections are for residents, and bringing start times forward is one of the ways we can keep services going while protecting staff welfare.

“We would like to thank our collection crews for the hard work they do to keep our Borough clean and tidy, and we would also like to thank residents for their patience, understanding and support during this period of extreme heat.

“All our key workers – cleansing, highways, grounds teams and many others – do vital work to keep Bedford Borough safe, clean and well‑maintained, and they all deserve our thanks and appreciation.”

25/05/2026

Wonderful day, thank you to the Bedford Naija Association for your invitation.

Happy Bank Holiday 🙂

24/05/2026

I absolutely agree. When I came into politics, my motivation was simple — to serve our community and help ensure the next generation has the opportunity to thrive.

Regardless of which party you support, we should all want a better future for our children, families and community.

That’s why I’m standing as your Councillor Candidate in Riverfield. I’m not here to play political games or post silly leaflets through your door that only provide a one-sided argument, I genuinely care as a resident in Bedford and want to help deliver real solutions to the issues people face every day.

Whether it’s supporting local families, listening to residents, or improving our area, I’m committed to working hard for every resident in Riverfield. Together, we can build a stronger future for our community.

23/05/2026

23/05/2026

I encourage everyone to attend this East West Rail consultation in Bedford.

📍 Kings House, 245 Ampthill Road, Bedford, MK42 9AZ
📅 Saturday 23rd May 2026
🕚 11am to 6pm

A reminder to residents that the latest East West Rail consultation remains open, and I would strongly encourage people across Bedford Borough to take part and make their voices heard.

The consultation includes updated proposals for the railway line between Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge, including further details on route designs, station plans and the potential impact construction could have on our communities.

As many of you know, I have consistently raised concerns about the impact this project could have on Bedford Borough, particularly around traffic, parking, access to the hospital, disruption during construction and the long-term effect on residents’ daily lives.

Whether you support the scheme, have concerns, or simply want answers to important questions, this consultation is your opportunity to directly influence the discussion and ensure local voices are heard clearly.

East West Rail will also be holding a public consultation event in Bedford on Saturday 23rd May 2026 at Kings House, 245 Ampthill Road, Bedford, MK42 9AZ, from 11am until 6pm. Residents will have the opportunity to speak directly with the project team, ask questions and review the plans in more detail.

The consultation remains open until Monday 9th June 2026. Here is the link: https://eastwestrail.co.uk/consultation/consultation2026

I would encourage everyone to take the time to engage with it. Bedford Borough deserves clear answers and proper consideration as these plans move forward.

Tom.

22/05/2026

❤️❤️❤️

17/05/2026

It was an absolute joy and honour to attend the Bedfordshire Lieutenancy Service of Thanksgiving and to join Tom Wootton Mayor of Bedford and his lovely wife, Elizabeth.

From start to finish, the service was truly beautiful. I was deeply moved when the incredible choir performed one of my favourite choral pieces, “Lord Bless You and Keep You” by John Rutter, one of my favourite English choral composers, and also my favourite hymn, “Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer.”

What made this service truly special, however, was meeting the remarkable charities and volunteers who give so much to our community.

My late grandma always told me, “If you can help somebody, then your living will not be in vain.” Seeing all of these kind-hearted people in action reminded me of the power of giving and the beauty of selfless service.

Feeling very moved and incredibly grateful.

Natalie 💜🕊️

17/05/2026