Luton Town are ball number 25 in tonight’s FA Cup first round proper draw.

With all League One and Two sides coming into the competition, Town will be hoping to avoid a similar tie at this stage last season, as they headed to Exeter City, winning 3-1 and then Accrington in the second round, where they went out with a 2-1 defeat.

Some interesting opponents that Hatters could pit their wits against are Solihull Moors, numbered 50, who are now managed by former boss Richard Money, while ex-Luton chief John Still’s Dagenham & Redbridge side are 64.

There are still three teams from the eighth tier of the football pyramid in the draw, live on BBC Two at 7pm this evening, with Northern Premier League teams Hyde United and Ossett Town, plus Isthmian League Division One North side Heybridge Swifts in the hat.

Former Luton striker Isaac Vassells’s old club, Truro City, were the first Cornish club to reach the first round of the FA Cup since 1969, while Northern Premier League side Shaw Lane remain in the competition too.

Ball numbers: 1 Accrington Stanley, 2 AFC Wimbledon, 3 Barnet, 4 Blackburn Rovers, 5 Blackpool, 6 Bradford City, 7 Bristol Rovers, 8 Bury, 9 Cambridge United, 10 Carlisle United, 11 Charlton Athletic, 12 Cheltenham Town, 13 Chesterfield, 14 Colchester United, 15 Coventry City, 16 Crawley Town, 17 Crewe Alexandra, 18 Doncaster Rovers, 19 Exeter City, 20 Fleetwood Town, 21 Forest Green Rovers, 22 Gillingham, 23 Grimsby Town, 24 Lincoln City, 25 Luton Town, 26 Mansfield Town, 27 Milton Keynes Dons, 28 Morecambe, 29 Newport County, 30 Northampton Town, 31 Notts County, 32 Oldham Athletic, 33 Oxford United, 34 Peterborough United, 35 Plymouth Argyle, 36 Port Vale, 37 Portsmouth, 38 Rochdale, 39 Rotherham United, 40 Scunthorpe United, 41 Shrewsbury Town, 42 Southend United, 43 Stevenage, 44 Swindon Town, 45 Walsall, 46 Wigan Athletic, 47 Wycombe Wanderers, 48 Yeovil Town, 49 Tranmere Rovers, 50 Solihull Moors or Ossett Town, 51 Hartlepool United, 52 Shaw Lane, 53 Chorley or Boston United, 54 AFC Telford United, 55 Gainsborough Trinity, 56 Nantwich Town or Kettering Town, 57 Gateshead, 58 Guiseley, 59 AFC Fylde, 60 Kidderminster Harriers, 61 Hyde United, 62 Macclesfield Town, 63 Brackley Town or Billericay Town, 64 Dagenham & Redbridge or Leyton Orient, 65 Hereford, 66 Aldershot Town, 67 Bath City or Chelmsford City, 68 Oxford City, 69 Maidenhead United, 70 Heybridge Swifts, 71 Woking or Concord Rangers, 72 Truro City, 73 Dover Athletic or Bromley, 74 Slough Town, 75 Dartford, 76 Boreham Wood, 77 Maidstone United or Enfield Town, 78 Leatherhead, 79 Sutton United, 80 East Thurrock United or Ebbsfleet United.

Cowardly armed robbers fled empy-handed in Dunstable after a brave shopkeeper sprayed their faces with marking spray.

Bedfordshire Police has subsequently released CCTV images of two masked men after the armed robbery in Dunstable.

On Thursday, October 12, at 9.45pm, two men entered a Costcutter store in Union Street, Dunstable, with their faces covered.

They threatened the owner with a knife and demanded that the till was opened.

Investigating officer Jenita Tailor said: “This was a very distressing incident for the store owner. He was very brave and managed to spray the offenders with a marking spay and they fled the scene empty handed.

“We are keen to find the identity of the men in the photographs. If you recognise the individuals please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact IO Tailor on 101 quoting the crime reference number JH/43939/2017, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Luton Town will be at home to League One side Portsmouth in the FA Cup first round after the draw was made this evening.

The Hatters have had a tough time of it against the south coast side recently, losing both matches last season, when Pompey were also in the fourth tier.

They didn't win either contest the campaign before either, suffering defeat in both of their last two home fixtures, as Town haven't tasted victory against their opponents for seven games, since a 3-1 Division One win back in September 1995.

The game is scheduled to take place over the weekend of November 3-6.

Hatters boss Nathan Jones has warned his side to make sure they avoid a repeat of their performance at Barnet when facing Exeter at St James Park this evening.

Luton had travelled to the Hive on the back of a thumping 8-2 victory over Yeovil on opening day, before returning home with a 1-0 defeat, in what was a thoroughly lacklustre performance.

Town now head to the Grecians after putting seven past Stevenage on Saturday, and Jones urged the players to guard against a similar result.

He said: “They’re a real grounded bunch, it’s just about being focussed on the next game.

“What happened last time we scored lots, we lost our next league game against Barnet and we were nowhere near the same attacking force.

“We’ve got to make sure the same thing doesn’t happen tomorrow night against a very good Exeter side, so we’ll be doing the things that we do and giving them an extra bit of diligence not to let that happen again.

“We’ll do a bit of game prep, debrief and move on to Exeter.”

Victory for the Hatters could put them top of the table, if leaders Notts County fail to win at Crewe.

Jones continued: “We don’t think they’ll need any motivating as Exeter are above us in the league, they’ve been early pacesetters, we know what it means to us in terms of where it could put us.

“I don’t think they’ll need to be told, but we’ll give them a gentle reminder.”

Meanwhile, Luton’s victory over Stevenage on Saturday meant Town have now won three games in a row for the second time already this season, something they only managed once last year.

Jones added: “We’re pleased because we’re not losing games, we’re picking up points and that’s the main thing.

“We’re above two points a game which is the benchmark to get promoted, that has to continue.

“It’s only 13 games, we’re just under a third through the season so it’s a long, long way to go.

“As I said, we’re in good place, we’re playing well, we’re scoring goals, we look like we can win games which is a real bonus.

“We’ve got good competition, the squad’s in a good place, so we’re happy at the minute, but we have to work hard to make sure that continues.”

Town full back James Justin praised his side’s desire to put teams to the sword as they made it 24 goals at home in League Two this season, with a 7-1 thrashing of Stevenage on Saturday.

The result meant that ahead of this evening’s trip to Exeter, Luton have a goal difference of plus 19, some eight ahead of their nearest rivals Notts County.

Justin said: “It’s crazy, just credit to the team and how clinical we were and we could have had more, it wasn’t even a generous scoreline.

“I just felt that when we got five, we got six and we kept on going, kept on going and never giving up.

“That’s what he (Nathan Jones) keeps on saying, when teams are down, put them to the sword, be relentless.

“That’s why we’re the best team in the league.

“When we score early at home, we know we can go on, we can rack up a cricket score if we want to, if we’re at it.

“I don’t think we played as well as we could have, but we did the right things in the right places and that’s why we won.”

With a forward line containing the goalscoring prowess of Danny Hylton and James Collins, Justin isn’t surprised Town have racked up huge wins already this term.

He continued: “That front three can destroy anyone in the league.

“Collins, Hylton, you know how prestige goalscorers they are and (Harry) Cornick just adding that pace and flair to our game.

“I don’t think anyone can even stop them.

It wasn’t just the strikers at it though, as Justin himself got on the scoresheet for the first time this season from Elliot Lee’s pass, adding: “It was a perfect game for Elliot Lee to get on the ball and do what he does, create magic and I know playing with him and training, just that run, he’d find me.

“I’m surprised I didn’t get a nosebleed to be honest, but I just stayed calm in front of goal, remembered players dive in, and just take it round them and keep composure.”

Luton Town boss Nathan Jones is anticipating another hugely difficult encounter when his side take to the field against Exeter City this evening.

The Grecians started the season in superb form, winning seven out of their opening eight games, drawing the other, as they topped the table.

Back to back defeats against Coventry and Notts County stalled their progress, but they are unbeaten in three once more, beating Morecambe and Carlisle before drawing 0-0 at Wycombe on Saturday to sit second, two points above the Hatters.

On the test, Jones said: “They’re very experienced at this level, got to the play-off final last year, they have a real settled squad, been early pacesetters in terms of the league.

“Them and Notts County have been neck and neck, they’re a good side, have dangerous individuals, they know what they’re doing, they can surprise you with a system now and again, so they’ll be a real tough test.

“We know that, we’ve always had tough games against them. Both games ended in draws last year, apart from the FA Cup game (Luton won 3-1), so we know it will be a tough test.

“It’s two sides who are in good form going up against each other so hopefully it will be a good game.”

The Town chief didn’t feel that it was a must-win clash by any means though, with only 13 games gone of the campaign.

He continued: “It’s definitely not must-win as what will happen if one of the sides don’t win it?

“We want to win it, as we want to continue our good form, we want to climb the table and want to reach a points tally.

“There’s two good sides going up against each other, so there’s a test to find out where we are.

“In recent weeks we’ve gone up against sides who have been in the play-off places, right in and around us, and we fared very well.

“We knew this was a tough month in terms of on paper, prospective opponents, who we were playing, we knew that.

“We focussed for that so it’s another game. This time last year Exeter were bottom of the league, then a fantastic run and they got in the play-offs, so lots can happen throughout the season.

“What we can do is concentrate on us, the next game, it’s a tough one against a real good opposition, but they’re all tough at this level.”

Midfielder Luke Berry added: “We’re always confident, we’ve got a confident bunch.

“We’ll have to look at them and see how we approach the game and go from there.”

A Houghton Regis town councillor and father-of -three has criticised the police after they failed to attend when he called them to report motorbikes mounting the pavement outside a Dunstable high school.

Labour Councillor Tim Welch was collecting his children from Queensbury Academy on Monday, October 9, when he witnessed the incident and called 999.

He said: “I was talking to the headteacher of the school when two motorbikes came by outside the school, nearly hitting children, and then they mounted the pavement. It was the end of the school day and there were lots of children about so I called 999, I was worried for the children’s safety.

“But nobody came, the police called me back and said they had no officers available and it was not a high priority incident. I think it is disgusting that no-one came to an incident where the children could be in danger. Speaking from the Dunstable and Houghton Regis Labour branch I think cuts to funding are affecting the police and it is not good enough.”

A spokesman for Bedfordshire Police said: “We regret that we cannot attend every call made to us due to the level of available resource at any one time, and grade our responses to all incidents based on the known level of threat, harm and risk.

“When members of the public call in to our control room, we use all details to build up a picture of this kind of activity and use it to inform our approach to dangerous off-road biking. This information is compiled as vital intelligence to help identify those responsible, resulting in action taken and vehicles seized. We would encourage people to report such incidents via 101 and to call 999 in an emergency.”

Hatters centre half Johnny Mullins wants his side to climb above promotion rivals Exeter City with victory at St James Park this evening.

Luton go into the game in third place, just two points adrift of the Grecians, with victory possibly good enough to take them to the summit, depending on Notts County’s result at Crewe Alexandra.

Mullins said: “They’re a good side and have got good players, but we’re a good side.

“We’ve got a hell of a squad, we can use it and when players come out, players come in. So hopefully we can go down there, get the three points and overtake them in the league.

“We’ve got to kick on, we’ve got a massive game and another one Saturday and they keep coming.

“We know what we want to do this season and we’ve just got to keep pushing towards that.”

The former Oxford defender is also looking to keep his place for the clash after replacing Alan Sheehan, who was at the birth of his first child, for Saturday’s 7-1 hammering of Stevenage.

Sheehan is now back and available, but Mullins is hopeful he has done enough to warrant a longer stay in the side.

He added: “That’s football, Sheez was absolutely on fire, playing really well, so the manager’s got decisions.

“That’s what he says he wants, competition all over the place and every position has got that.

“You just want to play and push your stake as much as you can.”

Bedfordshire’s MPs could find themselves with new wards as the consultation into boundary changes opens today.

The county currently has six constituencies, which will remain, although boundaries have been changed to ensure a relatively equal number of voters in each.

Launching its consultation the Boundary Commission for England said while political parties supported the proposal to move Houghton Regis into the Luton North constituency, at a public hearing earlier this year, residents were opposed.

On day one of the public hearing held in Luton earlier this year, Kelvin Hopkins, MP for Luton North, said: “I think we would accept and warmly support what the Boundary Commission has proposed.”

But David Abbott said: “Houghton Regis has almost no cultural or leisure links with Luton, but is more linked with Dunstable” and Dani Casey said: “Houghton Regis is part of Dunstable and we consider ourselves to be Dunstablians”.

“Many residents of Houghton Regis, would closely identify with neighbouring Dunstable, and Eaton Bray as compared to the large almost city like town of Luton”, Sam Duffy told the hearing.

There was also opposition from Caddington, to plans to move it into the proposed Luton South constituency.

Matthew Tomlin said: “I feel as a resident of Caddington … we have more in common with the villages of South West Bedfordshire as we are a rural community.” The Conservative Party drew attention to other representations from Caddington that spoke of the divide between Luton and the ward. These objections were echoed by the Member of Parliament for South West Bedfordshire, Andrew Selous.

While he welcomed the retention of the town of Dunstable in the South West Bedfordshire constituency, he objected to the inclusion of the Caddington ward in Luton South, highlighting the connection of local villages, and schools in particular, with Dunstable.

But the Commission says in its report that the changes “ were logical”.

>The consultation is now open until 11 December 2017.

To find out more and have your say go to https://www.bce2018.org.uk/node/6484

1 THEATRE
Joan, Hat Factory, Luton, October 20
The story of Joan of Arc is being told in unique and daring fashion in Luton this week. The show, named Joan, is performed by drag king champion Lucy Jane Parkinson. It’s a production which fuses lyrical writing and anarchic cabaret to unearth a story of courage, conviction and hope.
The fearless solo show explores what it means to stand out, stand up and stand alone. With uproarious songs, raucous fun and a political undertone, Joan takes to the stage as a gutsy gender warrior, dragging up as the men she defies.
The show examines what happens when a disguise soon becomes something a lot more real – and what happens when the bearer of the costume fights for who they really are.
Joan is presented by theatre company Milk in association with Derby Theatre. The Guardian has praised its “‘comic fizz, emotional ballast and cross-dressing that looks like sorcery”.
Details: lutonculture.com

2 THEATRE
Come To The Cabaret, Grove Theatre, Dunstable, October 20
Come To The Cabaret is a fun-packed evening with songs from Rent, Avenue Q, Book of Mormon, A Slice of Saturday Night and a rousing finale from Les Misérables.
These will be interspersed with other songs, sketches and variety acts along with a platter of treats served during the interval. The show is presented by DAOS Musical Theatre Company.
www.grovetheatre.co.uk

3 THEATRE
Circus of Horrors, Grove Theatre, October 22
A pre-Halloween treat is in store when the Circus of Horrors comes to Dunstable with their new show, Voodoo VaudEvil. With gruesome beginnings at Glastonbury Festival in 1995, Circus of Horrors has grown in international fame and heart-thumping reputation for its daring theatre since storming into the finals of Britain’s Got Talent in 2011.
Now they’re presenting a new spectacular, featuring an amalgamation of bizarre and brave acts, all woven into a horror-themed story: awoken by an Ouija board, a Voodoo curse causes devastation. While the city sleeps, the night creatures rule the underworld with bizarre and amazing circus acts from all over the world, performed to devil-driven rock ‘n’ roll and interwoven with the darkest of magic.
The tongue-in-cheek spectacular has appeared on various TV shows, turning what started as a cult show into a household name. Its credits now also boast The X Factor, The Slammer, Daybreak, Fairground Attractions, Who Wants to be a Millionaire, This Morning, Ant & Dec and The One Show.
Details: grovetheatre.co.uk

4 MUSIC
Los Pacaminos with Paul Young, Luton Library Theatre, October 21
Paul Young is bringing a taste of Americana to Luton with his band, Los Pacaminos, playing a mix of Tex-Mex classics. Paul achieved stardom in the 1980s with hits including Wherever I Lay My Hat (That’s My Home) and Every Time You Go Away and whose emphasis is now on “good music and good times”. The band has played with some of the biggest names in the business, including Queen, Tom Jones and Robbie Williams.
Paul said: “We started back in 1992 and it was too much fun to stop. I love the lift you get when playing it. We’re all past wanting to play or listen to music that depresses.”
Details: lutonculture.com

5 THEATRE
The Tempest, Luton Library Theatre, October 18
Bilimankhwe Arts has created an individual
retelling of Shakespeare’s story which features contemporary African choreography along with
music from Malawi. A gripping comedy about magic, love and redemption, The Tempest tells the tale of
Prospero, a sorcerer who is exiled on a strange magical island with his teenage daughter Miranda. When his enemies sail by, Prospero takes the opportunity to conjure up a storm to shipwreck them and get his revenge. Bilimankhwe Arts has brought together actors, musicians and dancers from Africa and Europe to create a powerful and passionate performance. The soundtrack blends traditional Malawian sounds with electronic beats and is performed live to create a rich, layered sound. The production remains true to the original language but has
been slightly abridged to make it more accessible.
Details: www.lutonculture.com

League Two: Exeter City 1 Luton Town 4

Luton Town sent the clearest message yet that they mean serious business this season, taking promotion rivals Exeter City to the cleaners on their own patch this evening and climbing to the League Two summit.

Few would have seen this coming at half time, with the Grecians easily having the better of the first period, as Hatters could consider themselves very fortunate to be on level terms.

However, once Dan Potts put Luton back in front just moments after the break, Town then absolutely tore their hosts apart with a truly rampant display of attacking football.

They scored three goals in just nine minutes as a beleagured Exeter completely wilted under the incessant pressure from the visitors, who played some glorious stuff at times.

Prior to the game, boss Nathan Jones made two changes, recalling the available Potts for James Justin, with Alan Sheehan replacing Johnny Mullins in the centre of defence.

City were inches away from a dramatic opener after just 10 seconds, former Hatter Jayden Stockley hammering against the underside of the bar, with Reuben Reid's follow up saved by Marek Stech.

Jake Taylor sent an effort wide, but with Exeter on top, Town then took the lead out of nothing after eight minutes.

Luke Berry sent a long ball over the top for Harry Cornick who did wonderfully to outmuscle Craig Woodman and reach the byline before crossing low for James Collins to tuck home his eighth goal of the campaign.

Still Exeter threatened though, Dean Moxey heading wide from Pierce Sweeney's corner and Stech bravely out at the feet of Brown, with Lee Holmes volleying over too.

With 20 gone, Hatters went close to a second, Danny Hylton's low shot parried by a wrong-footed Christy Pym, the rebound hacked clear.

However, City were deservedly level on 22 minutes as Stockley flicked on for Taylor who, although had time and space to pick his spot, did it superbly, curling beyond Stech.

The Grecians should have been in front on the half hour, Brown's header at the back post saw Reid somehow miss from close range, with Jordan Tillson unable to convert.

Taylor fired over from 25 yards as City stepped up the pressure, although Town had huge penalty shouts when Jack Stacey was sent flying by Woodman, but official James Linington gave nothing.

With Stockley enjoying an aerial dominance over the Luton back-line not witnessed during his brief loan spell at Kenilworth Road, Jones opted to revert to a 3-5-2 formation to counteract the hosts threat, Glen Rea dropping in as part of a three man defence, allowing Town some precious and much-needed cover.

It gave Town a modicum of control, Hylton skying over from range, while Potts should have done better after rising to meet Sheehan's free kick, as he couldn't keep his header down and Cornick spun and shot straight at Pym.

Stockley then missed a glorious chance on the stroke of half time, glancing off target from five yards, and Sweeney also fluffed his lines from close range.

Whatever Jones said at the interval clearly worked though, as immediately after the restart, Luton were back in front.

Sheehan's corner saw headers back in from Olly Lee and then Scott Cuthbert, while with Hylton appealing for a penalty, Potts took matters in his own hands to smash in.

Rather than sit on their lead, Town sensed blood and a truly magnificent team goal saw the visitors sumptuously work the ball down the right and into the area, where Hylton fashioned a shooting chance and his effort deflected past Pym on 52 minutes.

Three then became four just four minutes later with another truly glorious goal, as a searching crossfield ball was controlled perfectly by Hylton.

He sent Collins clear on the left and from his cross, Cornick's downward header flew in, netting his first Luton goal in the process.

Still Town pressed, Hylton and Luke Berry looking for a fifth, but they then went into cruise control for the final half an hour, happy to keep their hosts at arms length for the remainder, easing to a fourth straight victory.

With Notts County losing to Crewe, it meant Town went top of the table with their seventh win in eight games, the four goals netted making it 16 in four matches as well, ahead of a trip to Crawley Town this weekend.

City: Christy Pym, Pierce Sweeney, Craig Woodman (Matt Jay 61), Lloyd James (C), Jordan Tillson, Lee Holmes (Kyle Edwards 71), Jayden Stockley, Dean Moxey, Jake Taylor, Reuben Reid (Liam McAlinden 61), Troy Brown.

Subs not used: James Hamon, Troy Archibald-Henville, Ryan Harley, Kane Wilson.

Hatters: Marek Stech, Jack Stacey, Dan Potts, Scott Cuthbert (C), Johnny Mullins, Glen Rea, Olly Lee, Luke Berry, Harry Cornick (James Justin 83), Danny Hylton, James Collins (Elliot Lee 89).

Subs not used: James Shea, Jordan Cook, Johnny Mullins, Luke Gambin.

Booked: Brown 37, Rea 45, Olly Lee 61, Moxey 74, Sheehan 75, Potts 80.

Referee: James Linington.

Attendance: 4,209 (353 Luton).

Hatters MOM: Harry Cornick - livewire display and his first goal too.

Hatters boss Nathan hailed his side’s ‘devastating’ second half display during the 4-1 win at Exeter last night, although admitted the visitors had got out of jail with their performance in the opening 45 minutes.

Although Town took an early lead through James Collins, the hosts created a number of chances, with Jayden Stockley striking the woodwork and missing a sitter, Reuben Reid fluffing his lines from close range and Pierce Sweeney firing off target too.

Jake Taylor did manage to restore parity midway through, with Town changing ends on level terms, a scoreline Jones felt the visitors were fortunate to achieve.

He said: “It was a game of two halves. We started badly, they hit the post within minutes, they should have been ahead comfortably by half time.

“They were very direct, a bit one dimensional, but they were very direct, in terms of they were into Stockley.

“I haven’t seen that from them, but they obviously worked on that.

“They just hit diagonals and tried to get in our box and we had to weather a real storm right up until half time.

“We were very fortunate to go in 1-1 and I’ll say that, so credit to Paul Tisdale’s team and then we came out and showed what we’re about.

“In a devastating 10 minute period, the game’s done.

“We can do that, we know that, but we’ll learn from the first half.

“We couldn’t handle the directness of Exeter and the real physicality of Jayden Stockley, which surprised me.

“We had to change shape, we did, tactically we were good and then second half no problem.”

Seeing Town struggling to cope with Stockley, who looked a different player to the one that scored three times in 13 games for Luton during a loan spell in the 2014-15 campaign, Jones acted swiftly.

He opted to swap from the 4-3-3 formation that has brought them so much joy in recent weeks, to a 3-5-2, Glen Rea moving from midfield to make it a back three.

It helped nullify the threat of Stockley, although the striker still should have scored moments before the interval, and on why he made the change, Jones said: “Basically because we couldn’t handle them.

“We were losing every first ball, so when we were losing the first ball, it was landing in our box and then it was a lottery.

“What we wanted to do was let another centre half compete with it and another centre half to clean that stuff up.

“We got to half time at 1-1 which was a real blessing as we couldn’t handle their directness.

“They didn’t play through us and surprised us a little bit because I haven’t seen them be that direct for a while.

“We couldn’t handle it and fair play to them, they really, really did put us on the back foot, we had to change shape and we were a lot better after that.”

After the break though, Hatters were a completely different side, scoring three times in just nine minutes through Dan Potts, Danny Hylton and Harry Cornick as they went goal crazy, to leave the Grecians completely and utterly shell-shocked.

When asked what he had said to his players, Jones added: “At Mansfield, I ranted and raved, it wasn’t really a rant and rave, I think they knew how bad they were as we got a little bit out of jail in that first half.

“We came out and we were more ourselves. We started the second half like they started the first, had a chance straight away, a corner, scored straight away and then we were just simply devastating.

“On the counter attack we could have had more second half, but I’m very, very pleased as it’s a tough place to come to.

“They were second going into the game, so we’ve had all teams in and around us, if not above us.

“Accrington were above us when we played them, so were Exeter, the others, Newport, Stevenage, in and around the play-off places, so to do that to another promotion hopeful team is wonderful.”

Hatters boss Nathan Jones declared it the ‘most difficult’ decision of his managerial career to leave out James Justin and Johnny Mullins against Exeter City last night.

The duo had been part of Town’s magnificent 7-1 victory over Stevenage at the weekend, replacing Alan Sheehan, who was at the birth of his first child, and the suspended Dan Potts.

However, with both available for the clash at St James Park, Jones opted to recall the pair immediately, with Potts scoring the second goal from Sheehan’s corner on the way to Town’s impressive 4-1 triumph.

When asked if it was a tough call to alter a winning side, Jones said: “Massively. I’ve had to leave out Johnny Mullins and James Justin and that was my most difficult decision as manager.

“I said that to the players, but I knew that they had a certain element of physicality about them, Dan Potts is as good a header as we’ve got, Alan Sheehan gives us balance.

“Look they were incredibly unlucky to miss out, they really were, but we’ve won the game, so hopefully it’s justifiable.

“It doesn’t help them, but they took it well and we have a great group that works hard and pushes each other, because we all want to achieve the same thing.”

Speaking about his recall to the side after missing Saturday due to picking up five bookings, Potts said: “The gaffer pulled me and we spoke, but it must have been a tough decision.

“If anyone gets left out after winning 7-1, they’ve got the right to be disappointed.

“I was disappointed I got booked and missed the game, but he picked me and personally I’ve just got to do what I know I can do and hopefully make the manager’s decision correct.

“Thankfully we’ve come away with a win and a goal.”

With the victory putting Luton at the top of the table, Potts knows too that if they are to stay there, then hard decisions are going to be commonplace for his manager.

He added: “The squad we’ve got, he’s going to have headaches every week.

“Just look at the players on the bench, you’d like to think all of them could be starters for any other team in the league.

“It’s a good squad and I’m sure the manager wants those decisions, he won’t shy away from them, that’s part and parcel of it.

“If you want to be champions you’ve got to have a good squad, there’s going to be injuries, going to be suspensions like me, but the 11 that he does pick, even the lads that came in, they were different class on Saturday.

“There’s competition everywhere, so if anyone drops out, there’s someone who’s going to come in and do just as good.

“Hopefully it doesn’t get too stretched and everyone stays fit and healthy but there’s going to be decision to be made definitely.

“As long as that keeps happening, whoever’s on the pitch, if we keep winning, it’s good all round.”

Luton Town’s goal-glut continued on Tuesday evening with a superb 4-1 win at promotion rivals Exeter City to reach the League Two summit. Here’s how the Hatters players rated on the night.

Mark Stech: 7 - Little chance with Taylor’s strike that flew in as his goal came under much more threat than it has recently, such was the hosts’ first half dominance. Little to do after the break until a few routine late stops.

Jack Stacey: 7 - First return to St James Park after his Exeter heroics last season and found it tough going against the hosts front-line early on, beaten in the air. Formation change suited him as he looked far more comfortable from then on.

Dan Potts: 8 - Recalled in place of Justin and proved it was a good call by Jones as he looked strong aerially and offered a threat going forward too, netting the crucial second goal at just the right time.

Alan Sheehan: 7.5 - Another who was back in the side after missing the 7-1 win on Saturday and had his hands full during the opening 45 minutes as Exeter looked to go direct. Set-pieces caused a constant threat though as his corner led to Town’s second.

Scott Cuthbert: 7.5 - Won’t be too happy with the ease in which Exeter created a host of chances in the first period as they constantly went long to their front men. Had to grit his teeth after an awkward fall threatened to curtail his evening, but regained the upper hand in the second half.

Glen Rea: 8 - Moved back into a three man defence as Luton were struggling to cope with the threat of Stockley and helped Town gain a foothold. Made some vital clearances, almost scored himself and a wonderful ball out for Hylton to set up the fourth goal.

Olly Lee: 7.5 - Plenty of effort from Lee who’s producing some real consistency at the moment. One piledriver tested Pym and kept the ball alive for Luton to move 2-1 in front early after the interval.

Luke Berry: 7.5 - Released Cornick for Luton’s opener before Town were second best for the first period. Came into his own afterward though as his coollness in possession ensured Hatters stayed on the front foot.

Harry Cornick (STAR MAN): 9 - Brilliant display from the attacker who played a crucial role in Town’s opener, showing great strength to beat Woodman and tee up Collins. Lovely run and header for his first goal to seal victory too.

James Collins: 8.5 - Took up a great position to put Luton in front early on and then played a full part in Town’s second half domination, producing the perfect cross for Cornick.

Danny Hylton: 8.5 - Red hot form in front of goal is showing no signs of stopping as he scored for the fourth game in a row, with his sixth strike in that time. Stunning control to set Collins clear and deliver the assist as Luton made it 4-1.

James Justin (SUB): 6.5 - Allowed Cornick to have a breather as Exeter were just about done by then.

Elliot Lee (SUB): 7 Plenty of effort from the late sub and one shot looked destined to fly in but for a last-ditch block.

Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu (SUB): 5.5 - Had the last couple of minutes.

Exeter City boss Paul Tisdale labelled his side’s display as ‘fabulous’ despite losing 4-1 at home to Luton Town last night.

The hosts had by far the better of the first half, with ex-Town loanee Jayden Stockley hitting the bar and squandering another great chance, as did Reuben Reid and Pierce Sweeney.

However, Hatters went in level at 1-1 and the visitors simply bulldozed their opponents in the second period, with Dan Potts, Danny Hylton and Harry Cornick all finding the net.

However, Tisdale was left to rue the opening 45 minutes, as he said: “It was a fabulous performance which manifested itself in a 4-1 defeat.

“If we play that game 50 times we wouldn’t have that result.

“We move on, very quickly, I’ve congratulated the players on such a good performance with a five or 10-minute crazy spell which ended in us conceding three goals.

“I don’t think Luton would have been disappointed if we had gone in at half-time with at least a couple of goals lead because we created so many good chances.

“We were so sharp and so intent on scoring, we almost tried too hard. But we just didn’t put the ball in the net. If ever there was an example of having to take your chances where one team does and the other doesn’t then that was it.”

However, Tisdale did accept that the Luton players’ execution in front of goal was far superior to his side, adding: “They finished nicely. They scored the second from a corner, and we were too confident that based on the previous 49 minutes then it would only be a matter of time. We didn’t regroup like we should have done in that small spell.”

Firefighters attended a chimney fire in Eaton Bray on Tuesday afternoon.

Crews from Dunstable and Luton attended the blaze at a property in School Lane at 4.54pm.

They used an aerial platform platform, 9m ladder, chimney rods, stirrup pumps, two thermal imaging cameras and a hose reel to extinguish the fire.

Although the cause has not been confirmed, the fire service is reminding residents to get their chimneys swept before lighting them if they have been unused for some time to avoid anything that has fallen into it catching fire.

Half term is approaching for Luton and Dunstable schools next week and with the summer holidays barely out of sight, cash-strapped parents will be wondering how they are going to keep the kids entertained during the school break.

To help families this half term, Voucherbox.co.uk has collated four great activity ideas for a group of four, without spending more than £75 for the whole family. From discovering new things to getting active, Voucherbox has you covered.

Jubilant Jumping – Jump Arena

Perfect for burning off energy, the Jump Arena is home to 100 interconnected trampolines (even on the walls!) and with air bags and foam pits, the kids’ safety will be as high as their enjoyment levels.

Once you’re done testing out your jumping skills, head over to one of two dodgeball courts to enjoy the competition.

Family jump packages include a jump session for four, a pizza, tea or coffee for the adults and juice for the kids.

Total price for a group of four: £29.99

Daring Discoveries - Stockwood Discovery Centre

Head over to the free outdoor area to discover collections including geology, archaeology, social history and rural crafts. There are beautiful gardens on show, including parts once within the Stockwood House walls.

The area focuses on principles of environmental sustainability and the collections allow you to discover the region’s history, as far back as prehistoric times.

While the area is free, they do also encourage voluntary donations.

Total price for a group of four: Free!

All will go swimmingly- Luton Sports Village

With a 50m eight lane pool, there is plenty of space for the whole family to enjoy a swim and splash around. Adding to that is the community pool, which boasts a 20m pool with a moveable floor.

For those a little more daring, a 10m diving board is on offer… if you’re willing to take the plunge!

And if you’d rather sit and watch the rest of the family fool around in the pool, restaurant facilities are available.

Package deals for families go up to a group of five at a very reasonable £13.20.

Total price for a group of four: £11.80

Al pacca lunch- ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Dunstable is home to the largest zoo in the UK and with 3,800 unique creatures, there’s something for everyone.

Attractions include giraffes, elephants and cheetahs and you can travel through the wild animal territory by the Jumbo Express Steam Train.

Don’t forget to visit the daily animal shows and you can even find out what lemurs eat for breakfast

Total price for a group of four: £70.50

Additional tips

For travel options to all these fantastic destinations why not take a look at these great offers from Family and Friends Railcard, amongst other great discounts and promotions at Voucherbox.

Interested in more ideas?

https://www.voucherbox.co.uk/blog/half-term-on-a-budget-family-days-out-for-under-100/

Bedfordshire league

Ryan Lewis with a brace was joined on their scoresheet by Ryan Dobson, Jim Burnside and Matt Allen to bring up the nap hand against home replies via Dan Stafford twice and Ritchie Bevan once.

Still sitting in second are Caldecote who took their unbeaten run to five games by drawing 2-2 at AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College.

The game was the first ever staged at Town’s new Kingsfield complex and was played before a league ground hop crowd of 109.

Just seven minutes into the contest Delroy Phillps shot the home side in front before 16 minutes later Jack Boyd levelled matters.

A header from Justin Newman restored the home side’s advantage in the 34th minute, yet just 60 seconds later it was 2-2 via a successful penalty kick from Jake Wallace.

Despite their home defeat Flitwick Town remain in third but are now just a point clear of Wootton Blue Cross who, thanks to a goal from Matt Gurney, won 1-0 at Wilstead thus duly leaping them above Wilstead and now fifth place AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College.

The Town themselves are just goal difference ahead of nCrawley Green Reserves who were the 2-1 winners at Kempston Rovers Development, Cullam Yates netting both goals against a lone home reply via Emmanuel Dahie.

Up into seventh are Stevington the 4-2 victors at bottom of the table Queens Park Crescents. Jordan Wright, Louis Green, Tom Roberts and Ben Walsh all found the back of the net against Crescents replies via Daniel Rasol and Shahinur Rahman.

There was also joy on the road for Ickwell & Old Warden who won 4-0 at Marston Shelton Rovers. First half goals from Marko Tobdzic and Keith Thomas were added to in the second period by Scott Alleyne and Luigi Rocco.

Whilst AFC Oakley M&DH took their unbeaten home ways up to three games with a 4-1 victory over Sharnbrook. Elijah Hukin led the way with a hat-trick and was joined on the scoresheet by George Cox against a lone reply from Simon Denton for the visitors.

The league’s ground hop day ended at Cranfield United before a crowd of 116 who saw United claim their first home win with a 1-0 victory over Renhold United. The all important goal arrived in the 62nd minute via an own goal off of Renhold goalkeeper Neville Allen.

Division One supported by O’Neills.

Action in Division One supported by O’Neills saw league leaders Sandy travel to Wixams for a morning kick off to begin the league’s hop day before a crowd of 125

At the end of the 90 minutes the league leaders were now Wixams having ran out the 4-1 winners. However, events of the afternoon saw the hosts end the day in fourth and Sandy now occupying fifth. Gareth White fired the hosts ahead in the fourth minute and this lead was doubled by Grant Tibbett in the 18th minute and duly added to by Max Natola to make it 3-0 just 11 minutes before half-time.

It was game over for Sandy when Charlie Battams netted home goal number four in the 63rd minute before Phil Beal headed a consolation goal for Sandy five minutes later.

The leadership of the Division One supported by O’Neills is now in the hands of Riseley Sports who retained their unbeaten record by winning 5-3 at Cople & Bedford SA. Jay Willett led the way with a hat-trick and was joined on the scoresheet by Jake Hislop and Alex Taylor against home replies via Ollie Hughes twice and James Munns once.

Now in second spot, just a point adrift of the leaders but with two games in hand, are Totternhoe Reserves who were 5-2 home winners over The 61 FC Luton Reserves. Tom Howson with a brace was joined on the scoresheet by Dave O’Brien, Antony O’Grady and Calum Burgess to bring up the nap hand against replies via Jay Sharpe and Kwaku Aning.

Just goal difference behind in third are AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Reserves who remain 100% on the road this season after winning 3-2 at Meltis Albion. Jessie Sidhu, Michael Sexton plus a penalty from Kegan Roberts did the damage against home replies via Adam Cranney and Alexis Kamenan.

Up into sixth are Henlow who won 4-1 at Shefford Town & Campton Reserves. Luke Hills with a brace was joined on the scoresheet by Paul Wright and Ryan Lamond against a lone Town reply from Sam Kelly.

Elsewhere there was a first away success for Cranfield United Reserves in winning 5-1 at Lea Sports PSG. Paul Garrett with a brace was joined on the United scoresheet by single strikes from Jay Bygrave, Jordan Conway and David Adderson against a lone PSG penalty reply from Joe Hennem.

Whilst for Biggleswade FC Reserves it was a first win of the season with a 3-2 home victory over Flitwick Town Reserves. Jonny Bannister, John Veal and Bahador Chizari netted the home goals, with Benn Ward from the penalty spot and Sam Johnson replying for the visitors.

Division Two

There are new Division Two leaders in the shape of Renhold United Reserves after they took their unbeaten away run to five games with a 2-1 victory at Sundon Park Rovers who are still looking for their first win. Jamie Lovell and Hayden Shipp were the United goalscorers against a lone Rovers reply via James Matthew.

Losing out on that top spot and now down into third are Houghton Athletic who lost their unbeaten ways when defeated 2-0 at home by Bedford Albion, Paul Babbington netting both Albion goals.

Whilst second place is now taken up by Henlow Reserves who netted a 5-0 home win over Wixam Wanderers. Russell Ayles, James Campbell, Stefan Cogman, Martin Bator and Jonny Rowe all found the back of the net.

For Elstow Abbey it was win number three on the bounce with a 4-0 home success over Wilstead Reserves. Alex Hughes set them on the way with a opening half strike before the scoreline was added to the second period by Matt Poulton, Mark Allen and David Cullip.

Also winning at home were Marston Shelton Rovers Reserves with a 4-2 victory over Luton Leagrave AFC to move themselves off the bottom. Gary Russon, Cain Hamilton-Boyle, Dale Maiciw and James Honeyman all found the back of the net against visiting replies via Richard Mead and Nico Covileac.

Elsewhere there were wins on the road for CS Rovers and AFC Oakley M&DH Reserves. The Rovers, with goals from Mark Moriarty, Joe Campion and Joe Lydon, picked up their first away points in winning 3-2 at Caldecote Reserves whose goals came via Luke Freeman and Josh Wilson. M&DH won 2-1 at Westoning thanks to a brace from Justin Muircroft against a lone home reply via Ryan O’Neil.

Division Three

Kempston Athletic are four points in Division Three after winning 3-1 at Lidlington United Sports to take their unbeaten sequence to seven games. Lee Leonard, Luke Mongiovi and James Maxwell netted the goals against a lone United reply via Carl Pearson.

Whilst second place Clifton were to lose their unbeaten record when defeated 4-2 at Sandy Reserves who were winning for the first time in six outings. Liam Brophy with a hat-trick was joined on the home scoresheet by Aaron Seldon against visiting replies via Dylan Donaldson and Kyle Davies.

It was also a poor day for third place Black Swan who went down to their third defeat on the bounce when beaten 2-0 at home by White Eagles who were recording their third away win on the bounce via strikes from Jan Bucur and George Antoci.

Now just goal difference behind in fourth are Harlington who, after three straight defeats, returned to winning ways with a 5-3 win at Stevington Reserves who are still awaiting their first win. Pearce Tracey with a hat-trick and Liam John with a brace did the damage against home replies via Jack Jennings, Colm McGirl and Josh Martiello.

Now in fifth are Shefford Town & Campton A who took their winning ways to three games with a 5-3 home victory over Flitwick Town A. John Vooght with a brace was joined on their scoresheet by Bradley Vooght, Sam Lummis and Jacob Jevan. Bedford Albion Reserves now occupy sixth and remain unbeaten on home soil following their 1-1 home draw with Caldecote A who duly remain unbeaten on the road this season. Harry Spillane netting the Albion goal and Tom Dupuy scoring for the visitors.

Elsewhere both Dinamo Flitwick and AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College A took their unbeaten run up to four games by sharing the spoils in a 5-5 draw. Daniel Day with a brace plus an own goal and strikes from Steven Smith and Ashley Bratt marked the Dinamo scoresheet against replies via Arkadiusz Boruch with a hat-trick plus an own goal and a strike from Nikola Stanchev marking the Town scoresheet.

Hatters boss Nathan Jones knows his side are there to be shot at now after moving to the top of the League Two table with a thumping win over Exeter City on Tuesday night.

Town’s 4-1 triumph, plus Notts County’s 2-0 defeat at Crewe Alexandra saw Luton take the lead for the first time since the opening day of the campaign.

Jones said: “What we want to do is keep our performance levels up, Notts County and Exeter were in scintillating form, but we know that no team keeps that up in terms of wins.

“If you’re two points a game you get promoted. They were above that for long periods of time, so it’s difficult to maintain that, plus when you’re at the summit people want to shoot you down, so it’s difficult to keep doing that.

“We know that if our performance levels were good then we would get opportunities and that’s what it’s done.

“We’ve just been consistent, as the only game we’ve lost in a long while was when we went down to 10 men against Swindon, and that was my fault, I take full responsibility for that and I keep saying that, as I still believed we could win the game with 10 men.

“We’re in good form at the minute, they’re enjoying it, they’re confident, but we’ve got to make sure they keep learning as well.”

Although Hatters have managed to score 16 goals in their last four games, including putting seven past Stevenage at the weekend, Jones believes it’s at the other end where promotion will be secured.

He continued: “It was a devastating 10 minute period for us that won us the game and we showed our quality but we’ve got players that can do that.

“I said to them after, ‘wonderful, delighted, 4-1, looks brilliant’, but we know we need to be better first half in doing the basics.

“As it’s not the goals that will win you stuff and get you promoted, it’s doing the basics on a regular basis, so that you give yourself a platform to win games.”

With Luton level at 1-1 going into the break and second best during the opening 45 minutes, then Jones is also aware there is plenty to work on for Saturday’s trip to Crawley.

He added: “It was quite an open first half because we still had chances, but they were by far the better side, I make no bones about that.

“Once we tweaked stuff, once we got into them a little bit at half time, we came out and it was, well that’s what we’re about, a real attacking threat.

“We’re a positive team, we want to win games, we want to work hard, we want to do certain things in a positive manner.

“We’ve done that and we won’t mask what could be improved on, but lets enjoy the fact that we’re scoring goals.

“On Saturday we scored seven and second half Saturday was as good as a performance as I’ve seen from us in terms of the way we were, it was complete in everything.

“As long as we make sure we do the basics, keep clean sheets then I believe we’ve got goals in us.”

Hatters attacker Harry Cornick was thrilled to finally get off the mark for the club during Tuesday night’s 4-1 thrashing of Exeter City.

The 22-year-old was making his 13th appearance after joining from AFC Bournemouth in August when he made the perfect run across his marker to meet James Collins’ inviting ross and bury a downward header into the net.

It was his first strike for well over a year too, the last time coming in Leyton Orient’s 2-2 draw at Carlisle in September 2016, as Cornick said: “I was buzzing to get the goal. It’s been a long time coming to be fair, I’ve been waiting for that moment, but it was good and a good result away from home.

“It’s a tough place to come to. We knew they were in good form and were above us in the league, so it was a bit of initiative to beat them and go above them and prove that we are one of the better teams, maybe the best team in the league.

“It’s a good goal and good to come to a place like this and score in a big game. I’m happy to get it and hopefully I can kick on and score a few more.

“I’m sure they will come if I keep putting in the performances and it’s not just about scoring the goals, but getting the win and helping others score, so happy days.”

Cornick did just that too, as it was his strength and pinpoint pass that led to Town breaking the deadlock at St James Park, Collins doing the rest.

Boss Nathan Jones said: “It’s good from H as we get in that position normally 15 times a game and don’t always pick out the right man, but in the one occasion we did have, we did that.

“His goal was real good play too. He’s run across the front, a great ball in and finished it well.”

The forward knew his team hadn’t been at their best in the opening period, forced back by the Grecians, who could consider themselves unlucky not to be leading at the break.

He continued: “We didn’t start the game well, the first 20 seconds they were all over us, but we dug deep, we hit them on the counter and then got a goal.

“Us three up top (Cornick, Collins and Danny Hylton), we can create something from nothing, that’s always a positive to have, so even if we’re under the cosh we can provide a goal and get us out of trouble.

“They were on top in the first half, we can admit that, but it shows a good team to dig deep and defend well.

“The defenders were excellent, they blocked shots, made tackles that kept us in the game and then eventually our quality showed through second half.”

During that sensational 10 minute spell in the second period, Dan Potts made it 2-1, before Hylton and then Cornick crushed any resistance City had, as the goalscorer said: “We just came out of the blocks flying, we took our chances well and eventually put the game to bed.

“We didn’t create that many chances in the game, but then the first three in the second half we all took and once you’re 4-1 up in the game it’s just about digging deep and keeping the ball out of your net and getting the win.”