Young authors describe 'awesome' town in new guide

Book of Bedford shows what the children of the town think of it

A guide book compiled by schoolchildren "definitely slays" when it comes to describing their town.

The part-fiction Book of Bedford has been collated with contributions from 265 local pupils, with the aim of showcasing the town through children's eyes.

Bedford Creative Arts, who were behind the project - along with artists Andy Field, Beckie Darlington and Katie Allen - said it colourfully illustrated a "place that is teeming with joy".

Writer Aeirth said: "It makes me think Bedford is a way better place."

Bedford Creative Arts said it painted the town as "a place of rivers and greenery and architecture... A very historical and educational place full of exciting things."

The Book of Bedford includes drawings and stories by pupils from Brickhill, King's Oak, Priory and Putnoe primary schools.

The school children proudly showed off their book at its recent launch at the town's library

"I think it's really cool, it's got a bunch of different writings in it and it's really colourful too," added Aerith.

Madina said: "It totally definitely slays. That's the main reason you should get it."

"It will make me look at Bedford way more differently. I'm like, Bedford's awesome," added Aiéhla.

"It's a funny read and you can also learn about Bedford," said Riccardo.

"It shows you all the hideouts and shows you lots we love about Bedford," said Emmanuel.

Children designed a flag for Bedford with the blue representing the river

Zoshia, from Putnoe Primary, said she loved working on the project as one of its 16 editors.

"I really like Russell Park and it's climbing frames and it's location near the river," she said.

"[Bedford], I think it's quite a calm place which includes a lot of greenery and parks, I like it a lot here.

"It's a lovely place you should definitely visit it and have a walk near the Embankment and explore the town centre and it's beauty."

Artist Katie Allen said she "absolutely loved creating the illustrations for the Book of Bedford"

Ms Allen, a Bedford-based illustrator, said: "Interpreting the children's words was extremely fun, allowing me to draw things like imaginary boba tea statues, but also iconic Bedford locations that the children think are important.

"I've got a new perspective from the children's point of view - they really care about road safety, litter, and most of all, opportunities to have fun, and I think we should listen to them."

All the book's editors got to meet the town's MP Mohammad Yasin (left) and councillor John Wheeler

The Book of Bedford is free to download and can be purchased from the Eagle Gallery, on St Peters Street.

The project was supported by Bedford Educational Association, The Harpur Trust, Gale Family Charity Trust and Arts Council England.