The Bedford Podcast

Ken talks to Dave Sims, again! Part 2 — "Ghost Stories, the Ghost Walk & the 18 Ends of Kempston"

After a short break, David Sims is back with more Kempston gems — including additional contenders for the Seven Wonders, such as the Springfield Asylum and the mysterious Priory. The conversation then turns to the Kempston Ghost Walk, David's beloved charity fundraiser that brings together genuine local history and folklore in one atmospheric evening. We hear how ghost stories rooted in real events — including a direct descendant of the Livy Brothers attending the walk — make it so compelling. David also corrects the record on Kempston's 18 historic "ends," cementing its claim as once England's largest village. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2509716/support]

Ken talks to Dave Sims, again! Part 1 — "The Seven Wonders of Kempston"

David Sims returns to the Bedford podcast for another deep dive into the rich history of Kempston. In this first half, we explore the story behind the mock-Tudor almshouses on Bedford Road, built through the generosity of Charles Williamson in 1881 and still standing today. David then takes us through his personal "Seven Wonders of Kempston" — from the Norman-era All Saints Church, predating the Domesday Book, to the Victorian military grandeur of Kempston Barracks. We also hear the tragic tale of Kempston Grange and the heartbreaking 1926 balloon disaster at Kempston Ho. Essential local history. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2509716/support]

Ken talks to Neil Mills - Part 2, The Decision That Changed Everything

After years of living on the edge, Neil reached a breaking point—and made a decision that changed his life forever. In the second half of the podcast, he shares how he quit drugs overnight, rebuilt his life through discipline and hard work, and eventually discovered endurance running. What began as a personal challenge has grown into a 950-mile run across the UK to raise money for Young Lives vs Cancer. This part of the story is about resilience, second chances and proving that your past doesn’t have to define your future.  Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2509716/support]

Ken talks to Neil Mills - Part 1, Trouble, Choices and a Life Heading the Wrong Way

Neil Mills grew up in South London surrounded by gangs, drugs and chaos. Bullied at school and labelled a “lost cause” by teachers, he drifted into crime at a young age and quickly became the person everyone expected him to be. In this raw first half of the conversation, Neil reflects on the environment that shaped him, the mistakes he made and the reality of life on the streets. It’s an honest look at how easily young people can fall into the wrong world—and the moment when Neil realised he had a choice: keep going down that road or fight to change direction. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2509716/support]

Ken talks to Richard Harpham - Part 2 - Adventure. Resilience. Possibility.

In the second half, Richard shares the mindset behind his biggest adventures — from kayaking to Alaska and racing the Devizes to Westminster, to cycling across the Sahara and paddling from Niagara Falls to New York. He speaks honestly about exhaustion, resilience, and the humbling power of nature. The conversation returns to Bedford, celebrating its sporting culture, river life, and community spirit. Richard discusses future growth, including Universal, and the importance of protecting the town’s green and blue spaces. It’s a powerful reflection on possibility, perspective, and why Bedford continues to punch well above its weight. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2509716/support]