kids encyclopedia robot

Leighton–Linslade facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Leighton–Linslade is a town in Bedfordshire, England. It's part of the Central Bedfordshire area. In 2011, about 37,469 people lived here. It's known as a 'civil parish,' which is a local area with its own council.

Quick facts for kids
Leighton-Linslade
Civil parish
Country England
Primary council Central Bedfordshire
County Bedfordshire
Region East of England
Status Parish
Main settlements Leighton Buzzard
Linslade
Government
 • Type Town Council
Population
 (2011)
 • Total 37,469
Area code(s) LU
Website Leighton-Linslade Parish Council

A Look Back: How Leighton-Linslade Began

Leighton-Linslade became one town in 1965. Before that, it was two separate areas: Leighton Buzzard and Linslade. Linslade used to be in a different county called Buckinghamshire.

Later, in 1974, a new law changed how local areas were managed. Leighton-Linslade became part of a larger area called South Bedfordshire. It then became a 'successor parish,' which means it still had its own local council but was part of a bigger district.

Exploring the Geography of Leighton-Linslade

Leighton-Linslade is made up of two main parts: Leighton Buzzard and Linslade. Even though they are two names, they share one local government called the Town Council.

The River Ouzel flows through the town and acts as a natural border. Leighton is on the east side of the river, and Linslade is on the west. The town also has a train station, Leighton Buzzard railway station, which is located on the western side.

How Leighton-Linslade is Governed

The local government for the town is called the Leighton–Linslade Town Council. They make decisions about local services and improvements.

Leighton–Linslade is known as a Cycling town. This means it gets special funding to encourage people to ride bikes more often. It helps make cycling safer and easier for everyone.

The town also takes part in 'town twinning.' This is when a town forms a special friendship with towns in other countries. It helps people learn about different cultures. Leighton-Linslade is twinned with:

Town Symbols: The Coat of Arms

The town has its own special symbol, called a Coat of Arms. It was first given to the Leighton-Linslade Urban District Council in 1966. The Coat of Arms has different pictures and colors that represent the town's history and values. For example, it shows a bridge, an ear of wheat, and a water ouzel bird. The motto, "By Truth And Diligence," shares an important message for the community.

Special Honors: Freedom of the Town

The 'Freedom of the Town' is a very special honor that Leighton-Linslade can give to people or groups. It's a way to say thank you for their important contributions to the community.

Individuals Honored

  • Walter "Wally" Randall: He received this honor on November 10, 2019.

Military Units Honored

  • RAF Stanbridge: This military base received the honor on April 27, 1987.
  • 1003 (Leighton Buzzard) Squadron Air Training Corps: This youth organization, which teaches young people about aviation, received the honor on January 29, 2001.
kids search engine
Leighton–Linslade Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.