Issue 41 - June 2010

Your primary source of community information www.croydon.gov.uk

Take your places for Croydon gears up this year’s Big Lunch for World Cup Page 11 Page 15

Top dog Hamish Already a local star, a special little dog has achieved national fame Where East after winning an award marking his charity work. Hamish McFee, a West Highland white terrier, was named Pets As Therapy (Pat) Dog of meets West the Year at the country’s Envied by many Londoners May, gives residents a starting and ending their premier dog show, Crufts. to win the award. for its excellent transport direct connection to journeys at the opposite Along with owners “Hamish has links, Croydon can east and north London end of town to the larger Margaret and Barry the kind of temperament now boast even better stations, cutting out the East Croydon station. Crossby, Hamish has that makes him ideal to connections thanks to inconvenience of having In addition to being been a regular Pat visit people in hospital. the opening of the East to travel into the capital’s part of the new London dog visitor to patients “He’s calm and placid, London line rail extension central mainline stations. Overground network, in Mayday University and he really enjoys at West Croydon and And local traders are the line features on the Hospital for more than six the visits. He just loves Norwood Junction. hopeful of an increase in Tube map as stations are years. people – and people The new £1bn service, custom as the new facility also stops on the London He was nominated seem to love meeting which opened on 23 is likely to see more people Underground system. for the award by hospital him.” Each of the new fleet Naseem Choudry, staff, the volunteers While Hamish might Carl Nielsen, owner of of trains, has a capacity a partner at James services manager and not be particularly the Rockbottom musical of 494, wider doors and, Chiltern Estate Agents, others keen to recognise impressed by the cheque instrument shop just wheelchair spaces. said the line was good Hamish’s ability to add and handsome piece along the road from West Croydon’s refurbished news for the local quality to the lives of of crystal he received, Croydon station, said: “I stations have upgraded property market: “I think many patients. his tail will doubtless be never really thought of it CCTV and Oyster points, it’s a positive thing for One staff member wagging at the prospect as people coming here to and are staffed at all times this part of Croydon, said the first words from a of the three months’ Croydon, but I suppose trains are running. especially as regards patient who awoke from a supply of dog food his it works both ways. When completed, property prices. coma after several weeks prize also comprised. “I’ve just had our in 2012, the phase 2 “We’ve had clients were: “Where’s Hamish?” For more information on website done and I think development will see saying they’re interested Barry, a Croydon Pets As Therapy, visit I’ll mention the line on it; it the line connected with in the area as an Council engineer, www.petsastherapy.org could bring more people Clapham Junction, offering investment opportunity said: “We were thrilled in. Certainly the Tube links Croydon people even because of the new to be nominated, l Hamish gets a new could be advantageous.” greater travel flexibility. line coming in.” and honoured wardrobe, see page 12 The electorate decides Voters in Croydon have came about because and general elections. final declaration shortly building for about half Despite what must decided that, for the next of the simultaneous With counting staff, before 6am on Friday. an hour shortly after have been a huge four years, the Town election to choose a invigilators, candidates, And, after a short counting began. deviation from everyday Hall will remain under national government. agents, police officers, break, it all began again It proved to be a false school life, Trinity’s boys Conservative control. Trinity School, in observers, news reporters, at 11am on Friday as the alarm, and counting took it all in their stride With turnout figures Shirley, was the centre of and council officers, local count got under way. was resumed, going on and classes continued eclipsing those of the a whirlwind of electoral the school’s sports and There was, however, through the afternoon throughout the Friday. last local elections, it activity over 6 and 7 main halls were alive a moment of drama until 5.50pm with the is generally held that May, as it hosted the with overnight general when a fire alarm forced final declaration of the l See pages 2 to 5 for the hike in numbers counts for both the local election activity until the the evacuation of the count, Ashburton ward. full election coverage.

An American in Croydon - page 8 Half-term attractions - page 17 On track for 10 years - page 19 2x yourelectionnewsspecial JuneMay 20102009 | Your Croydon Map unchanged as parties hold seats Reading from north to south, the map of Croydon retains the same red, blue, blue colour scheme it has had since the last general election. Despite weeks of Margaret Mead, revealed party that won at the last speculation, the general however, that Conservative general election, in 2006. election on 6 May left candidate Gavin Barwell Malcolm Wicks was the political landscape of had retained the seat for his returned to represent Croydon almost unchanged party with a 2,989 majority Croydon North for Labour, after all the votes had been over Labour’s Gerry Ryan. while Croydon South was counted. Andrew Pelling, the retained by Conservative It had been felt by independent candidate, Richard Ottaway. some that the Croydon finished in fourth place, Across the borough, Central seat might slip behind Peter Lambell, of a total of 157,757 votes from Conservative control, the Liberal Democrats. were cast, compared with either to Labour or the only With voting turnouts the 103,479 tallied in the independent candidate ranging from 61% general election of 2006. Dry run: Rebecca Hodgkiss casts her vote in her school’s mock general election standing for election. to 69.5%, each of The 4.38am the borough’s three l See pages 4 and 5 for full declaration, by the Mayor constituencies finished the listing of all 70 of the newly Out of the votes of of Croydon, Councillor count in the control of the elected councillors. Croydon North Novlette Williams Democrats) – 6,553 babes and innocents Jason Hadden (Christian Party) – 586 Cliff Le May (BNP) – 1,448 (Conservative) – 12,466 Andrew Pelling Coulsdon students made Year 11 student they can’t complain if the Gerard Jerome (Liberal Croydon Central (Independent) – 3,239 it very clear how they felt Rebecca Hodgkiss, from government passes a law Democrats) – 7,226 Ralph Atkinson (UKIP) Gerry Ryan (Labour) – their local polling should Coulsdon, said: “Everyone they don’t agree with.” Shasha Khan (Green – 997 16,688 have gone, when they lined here has taken our mock A total of 526 votes Party) – 1,017 Gavin Barwell up to cast their votes in election very seriously and were cast at the Homefield Jonathan Serter (UKIP) (Conservative) – 19,567 Croydon South their own ballot. it’s given us a feeling for Road “polling station”, with – 891 John Cartwright Jane Avis (Labour) – Pupils at Oasis the real thing, and that’s 14 ballot papers spoiled. Mohamed Seyed (Monster Raving Loony 11,287 Academy Coulsdon held important because we’ll all The results were Mohamed (Independent) Party) – 192 Jeffrey Bolter (UKIP) – their own mock general be eligible to vote in the returned as: – 111 Michael Castle 2,504 election on the day before next general election in Labour 33.9% Mohammad Shaikh (Independent) – 138 Richard Ottaway the real thing and, if their four years’ time.” Liberal Democrats 7.3% (Respect) – 272 James Gitau (Christian (Conservatives) – 28,684 result had been duplicated Fellow student, 15-year- Ben Stevenson Party) – 264 Simon Rix (Liberal in the real world, Croydon old Gary Harrington, Conservative 19.1% (Communist Party) – 160 Bernice Golberg (Green Democrats) – 12,866 South would now be from Old Coulsdon, said Green Party 12.5% Malcolm Wicks Party) – 581 Gordon Ross (Green represented by a “It’s really important to UKIP 6.6% (Labour) – 28,947 Peter Lambell (Liberal Party) – 981 Labour MP. vote. If people don’t, English Democrats 2.3%

electionspecial 2 yoursafety 14 yournews 6 yourspace 16 Take advantage of our specialfeature 8 specialfeature 18 competitive advertising rates yourcommunity 11 yourheritage 19 FULL HALF QUARTER yourbusiness 13 yourevents 22 page from £1,040 page from £464 page from £233 355x259mm 148x259mm 148x127mm districtcentrenews centre pull-out If you would like your business to benefit from advertising in one of the country’s leading community publications and would like Editorial team more information, a copy of our rate card or a booking form, please call: Editor: Fred Hall Reporter: Richard Gibbs Reporter: John Bownas Paula Howell & 020 8760 5644 Email: yourcroydon@ Email: yourcroydon@ Email: yourcroydon@ croydon.gov.uk croydon.gov.uk croydon.gov.uk The next edition of Your Croydon will be published on Tel: 020 8760 5644 Tel: 020 8760 5644 Tel: 020 8760 5644 Monday 24 May. Commercial advertising is welcome, but Deputy editor: Danny Brierley Reporter: Susie Rundle Advertising: Paula Howell inclusion of an advertisement does not indicate council Email: yourcroydon@ Email: yourcroydon@ Email: yourcroydon@ endorsement of any products or services mentioned. If you croydon.gov.uk croydon.gov.uk croydon.gov.uk have any concerns or observations regarding the distribution or Tel: 020 8760 5644 Tel: 020 8760 5644 Tel: 020 8760 5644 delivery of Your Croydon, please send an email to [email protected] or call 020 7372 4934. Your Croydon welcomes letters for publication. They should be no more than 200 words. Receipt of a letter (in print or by email) does not guarantee inclusion. The right to edit letters is reserved, as is the editor’s right of reply. Letters from known politicians and political groups will not be published. Post your letters, This publication is printed on environmentally friendly, including your name and address, to Your Croydon, 7th Floor, Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3JS TCF (totally chlorine free) paper, produced from a sustainable source. When you have finished with this 100006/150M/2 newspaper please recycle it. www.croydon.gov.uk Have your e-say at [email protected] electionyourspecialnews 3x Turnout up as Croydon votes News in brief Turnout in the local as the Conservatives ended Biggest – and election rocketed this with 37 councillors and a best year as the number of majority of four. The election operation people turning out to vote There were fears that in Croydon was the increased by more than voter apathy and an alleged largest in London – with 20%. disenchantment with more than 250,000 Average turnout for the politics might lead to fewer registered voters, 284 ballot held on 6 May – won people turning out to vote. candidates and 35,000 by the Conservatives – was But those doubts were postal votes to be 64%, compared to 40% in quashed by the huge counted. 2006. increases in turnout seen The Tory group won across Croydon. People power 41% of all votes cast to Turnouts varied from More than 1,000 retain control of Croydon ward to ward, with Selsdon people gave their time Council during the biggest & Ballards logging the to help ensure the electoral operation seen in highest at 73.9%. Countdown: staff worked through the night and the following day to ensure an accurate return elections ran smoothly the borough. Selhurst had the lowest in Croydon. More than A record number with 55.1%, but that was people to cast their votes. “It’s a once in a Fisher, who was reselected 500 volunteers manned of candidates – 284 – up 24% on its 2006 figure. Jon Rouse, Croydon four-year opportunity to to lead the council shortly 147 polling stations contested Croydon’s 24 The higher turnout was Council’s chief executive influence the way things after the last results were throughout the day and wards on the same day as attributed partly to the and returning officer for the are run and it’s pleasing declared, said: “The people night on Thursday, while the general election. general election being held elections, said: “The aim that so many more people of Croydon have spoken a further 500 spent Labour gained six seats on the same day as the of any election operation took that opportunity.” and we’re looking forward endless hours counting from their rivals to win a local poll, but it also came is to get as many people as Speaking after the to continuing our work votes at Trinity School in total of 33 but it was not after a huge campaign by possible to exercise their final votes were counted to deliver our election Shirley. enough to take back control the council to get more democratic right. on 7 May, Councillor Mike promises.” Food for all Catering staff at Trinity Counting the big numbers school served more The simultaneous general The enormity of the democratic right. than 500 meals to and local elections saw operation was recognised “It’s their once in four or counting staff in just Croydon mounting the by the BBC when a film five years’ chance to actually under an hour in a bid biggest polling operation in team arrived at the Town make their voice heard and to keep the count going the borough’s history. Hall to speak to Jon make a decision for the smoothly. The largest registered Rouse, Croydon’s election nation.” electorate in London – returning officer, about the He said that the First 250,792 – voted for a record importance of voting. electorate’s votes would Fieldway was the first number of candidates – 284 He said: “People should have an impact up and local election result to – across all 24 wards. vote because it’s their down the country. be announced during “Whether you’re voting the count at Shirley’s for the first time, if you’ve Trinity School on Friday, Vital: Jon Rouse implored voters to turn out on 6 May just reached 18, or if you’re 7 May, while Ashburton voting for the umpteenth stations were used, Central Library in Croydon was the final one to be time, we’d encourage comprising 53 church halls, Clocktower. declared. everybody to join in.” 43 community halls, four Some 450 staff were It was a message that private garages and three engaged to run the polling Least was taken on board by libraries. Where there was stations, which were open The ignominy of Croydon’s residents, with no other suitable local from 7am to 10pm. being the candidate turnout for the local election facility, 40 schools were This year’s electoral who polled the least registering at 64%, and pressed into service, but operation also required a votes during the for the general election at school closures were kept to record number of staff to local elections fell to 65.3%, both more than 20 a minimum. undertake counting duties; Ben Stevenson, who percentage points higher In use for the first 500 were involved, working won 80 votes for the than for the corresponding time was the Territorial in two shifts at the counting Communist Party of counts at the last elections. Army centre in Marlpit venue – Trinity School in Great Britain in West A total of 147 polling Lane, Coulsdon, and the Shirley. Thornton. New Mayor marks 20th anniversary as councillor Croydon’s new Mayor is a of births and marriages, corporate services and former air hostess who is secretary of the Whitgift licensing committees. aiming to reach new heights Centre Tenants’ Association She has also led the during the next 12 months. and was the first woman borough’s Crime Prevention Before being elected to to be elected president Panel, Victim Support the council in 1990, Avril of Croydon Chamber of scheme and the police Slipper travelled the world Commerce and Industry. community consultative as a cabin crew member for Councillor Slipper committee. a major airline, but devoted has been a speaker for During her time in her life to supporting local the National Association office, the new Mayor will causes. of Womens’ Clubs, and a raise money for Croydon A former member of governor of both Purley Opportunity Pre-school the Metropolitan Police Nursery and Orchard Way Group, and Help for Special Constabulary, School. Heroes. the Ashburton councillor As a councillor, she Cllr Susan Winborn will has also been a registrar has chaired the council’s be deputy mayor. 4 electionspecial June 2010 | Your Croydon Who’s who at Croydon Council

Your easy-reference guide to the councillors serving you. Croydon NORTH With 284 candidates vying for 70 seats in 24 wards, it is not too difficult to be left MP Bensham Manor wondering who were elected to represent your ward. We have laid out, in an easy-to- follow format, thumbnail photographs of all Croydon’s newly elected council members, clearly indicating which ward they represent, in which parliamentary constituency that ward sits and the Member of Parliament elected to represent it. All wards have three councillors, with the exceptions of Fieldway and New Addington, both of which have two. The map, below, shows which party controls each ward. All are controlled Malcolm WICKS Alison BUTLER Donna GRAY Raj Rajendran by either Conservative (blue) or Labour (red) councillors. There is one exception, New (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) Addington, where voters returned one candidate from each of the two parties. South Norwood

Jane Avis Kathy Bee Wayne Lawlor (Lab) (Lab) (Lab)

Croydon CENTRAL

MP Addiscombe

Gavin barwell Sean Fitzsimons Patricia Hay-Justice Mark Watson (Con) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) Heathfield

Jason Cummings Margaret Mead Helen Pollard (Con) (Con) (Con)

Croydon SOUTH

MP Coulsdon East

Richard OTTAWAY Justin Cromie Terry LENTON Chris Wright (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con)

Purley

Graham Bass Badsha Quadir Donald SPEAKMAN (Con) (Con) (Con) Have your e-say at [email protected] electionspecial 5 Who’s who at Croydon Council

Broad Green Norbury Selhurst

Stuart Collins Mike Selva Manju Shahul- Sherwan Shafi Khan Maggie Mansell Timothy GODFREY Toni Letts Gerry Ryan (Lab) (Lab) Hameed (Lab) Chowdhury (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) Thornton Heath Upper Norwood West Thornton

Pat Clouder Matthew Kyeremeh Louisa Woodley Alisa FLEMMING Pat RYAN John WENTWORTH Humayun Kabir Bernadette Khan Paul Smith (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab)

Ashburton Fairfield Fieldway

Eddy Arram Adam Kellett Avril SLIPPER David Fitze Vidhi Mohan Sue Winborn Carole BONNER Simon HALL (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Lab) (Lab)

New Addington Shirley Woodside

George AYRES Tony PEARSON Richard Chatterjee Mike Fisher Janet Marshall Karen Jewitt Tony Newman Paul Scott (Lab) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Lab) (Lab) (Lab)

Coulsdon West Croham Kenley

Jeet Bains David Osland Ian Parker Maria Gatland Michael Neal Jason Perry Jan Buttinger Steve Hollands Steve O’Connell (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con)

Sanderstead Selsdon & Ballards Waddon

Lynne Hale Yvette Hopley Tim Pollard Sara Bashford Dudley MEAD Phil Thomas Tony HARRIS Clare HILLEY Simon HOAR (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) (Con) 6 yournews June 2010 | Your Croydon Our future, your say The vision and foresight should develop over events – call the council’s of Croydon’s residents the next 20 years. planning team on have been underlined by Read more at 020 8407 1385. the feedback received on www.croydon.gov. And you will have the one of the council’s key uk/corestrategy. chance to comment on consultation exercises. You can watch the council’s Infrastructure Your views were sought video comments at Delivery Plan in the on the Core Strategy, a vital www.youtube.com/ summer – this will planning document that croydonisation and ensure that we have all will guide development of leave a comment of your the essential facilities the borough. own, and you can join and services in place The report on feedback the Facebook group, to support the borough received to date will be Croydon – Third City. in the long term. published in the summer, You can also sign up This covers everything with another round of to the Local Development from transport and Fantastic: the ceilidh band impressed the Trafalgar Square crowd consultation to follow. Framework subscriber utilities to schools, So, if you haven’t yet list to receive information libraries and parks. taken part, there’s still on all future planning Don’t miss your Rocking and reeling a chance to have your consultations and chance to take part in the say on how Croydon invitations to consultation plans for your future. A crowd of thousands Carol Whinnom, the ceilidh they had the time of their was wowed by a band of band has been playing lives – they did fantastically young musicians flying for two school terms, well,” said Carol. the flag for Croydon when having started with half a Members range from they played to a packed dozen members, and now nine to 15 years of age Trafalgar Square. numbering more than 20. and play an eclectic Your letters The Croydon Young She said the band selection of music. Musicians Ceilidh Band, was invited to play the Carol added: “We’re one of many groups concert after a member keen to put the children in Spreading the word organised by Croydon of the Mayor of London’s touch with their heritage so for the first time – online while looking for I’ve just seen Your Croydon Music and Arts, was staff, hearing of the band’s we play a traditional reel some information about fly-tipping. selected to help mark work, visited a Saturday called The Croydon Frisk. St George’s Day at the morning rehearsal “As well as traditional It’s a good read, and I’ve picked up several ideas from it. Rhythm of London concert and was impressed English music, we So, first comment – thank you. I rarely see positive information about headlined by rock’n’roller by what she heard. play tunes that reflect Croydon, and I know that there are good news stories out there. Joe Brown and his band. “We took 26 to play Croydon’s large Irish and Second comment – fly-tipping and waste are a massive problem for the Led by guitar tutor at Trafalgar Square and Polish communities.” area but it’s hard to find any information about what is going on to tackle this. Can Your Croydon throw some light on that? In particular, I’m excited Promotion for His Lordship to learn that there will be improved recycling and trial of food waste collection coming soon ¬– can I volunteer my area? The promotion of for Croydon in 2006. Croydon’s resident Croydon now has a Thanks again, and I will be coming back to see the next edition judge could help the large court centre presided Cass, Thornton Heath borough in its latest over by a senior circuit Editor’s note: The council takes seriously its responsibility for keeping bid to become a city. judge, a combination residents informed. The principal method is the publication you are Warwick McKinnon usually found only in currently reading, but it also displays notices in the public areas of such has been appointed a cities. Those behind the places as libraries, leisure centres and district offices. Fly-tipping, as Cass senior circuit judge. bid to give Croydon city points out, is a problem that the council is keen to eliminate. Details of a Judge McKinnon, 62, status will stress that recent anti-fly-tipping operation can be read, online, in February’s edition was called to the Bar in point to the decision of Your Croydon at www.croydon.gov.uk/yourcroydon 1970. He was made an makers in 2012. www.croydon.gov.uk Residents can report fly-tipping at assistant recorder in 1991, His latest step up the and a recorder in 1995. judicial ladder means The next promotion Judge McKinnon now Swimming discount Judge McKinnon was in 1998, when he wears a red robe while A good read In the March issue of Your Croydon was made a circuit judge, administering justice at now be addressed as My you published a letter from , Just would likeYour to sayCroydon what before he eventually the Crown Court buildings Lord or Your Lordship a great paper Louise Pepperall about the cost of rose to be resident judge in Altyre Road, and must during court proceedings. is. I thoroughly enjoy swimming. reading all the different I wanted to let her know that if she articles. Well done Croydon. receives disability living allowance

More care for less cash wins gold Christina Goozee, there is a discount available. Received via email D Thompson, Norbury. Savings of £6m over the including voluntary sector The success was made past three years have representatives, were possible by asking older won a council service a presented with the award, residents what was really prestigious national gold from magazine LGC, useful to them, and their award. for the most improved being supportive of the Supporting Palace Croydon’s older people’s and efficient council- resultant changes. I fully support retaining the link between Crystal Palace FC and the care team has succeeded run service in the UK. The care system borough of Croydon by imposing the redevelopment restrictions March). as in cutting costs, while The team had to overall has almost doubled outlined in Your Croydon (Plan to protect the Eagles’ lair, offering more customers a demonstrate that it had the number of people Ian J Bell, Croydon resident and Palace supporter for more than 60 years. wider range of services. honoured its promise to provided with support The efficiency deliver better services to leading to a reduction in saving was recognised the older people under its those needing expensive We want to know your views, email us at [email protected] as managers from care – while, at the same and often unnecessary or write to the address on page 2 the borough’s team, time, spending less. residential care. Have your e-say at [email protected] yournews 7 New health News in brief ‘Thank-you’ to centre opens carers Carers will be the focus Patients will soon be are expected to register of attention at the Look enjoying the gleaming with a GP at the centre Good – Feel Good event new facilities at the latest over a five-year period. on 17 June. In addition health centre to open in The new centre will to being able to network central Croydon. be run by The Practice with others, carers will The purpose-built plc, which already runs be offered a free “taster premises, at Impact a number of similar session” of massage, House, in Edridge Road, GP-led health centres. manicure or hairstyling. replace the Walk-In Centre Sue Arnold, of NHS The event takes place in nearby High Street, Croydon, said: “This new at Croydon Conference which will close as the centre is just one of the Centre, Folly’s End, 5-9 new centre opens. ways we’ll be delivering Surrey Street, Croydon Current Walk-in Centre more services in the CR0 1RG, on Thursday, services and a range of community, allowing people 17 June, from 10am Happy meal: Marie Nsundi, 10, and Lucy Hearne, 10, give their approval for their school lunch additional services will a greater choice of where to 4pm. Booking is be available at the Impact they can receive treatment essential, call the Carers House centre, including when they’re ill or have a Information Service on Schools’ silver service a pharmacy, emergency minor injury, at times that 020 8649 9339 opt 1 Pupils gave a unanimous level of recognition. only thing left on her plate, dental service, sexual health are convenient to them. thumbs up after a catering The council encouraged Marie Nsundi, 10, said: “I clinics, breast screening and “These centres will company’s healthy and Eden to go for the award, really enjoy the food. I like health promotion services. ensure that everyone Have your

nutritious meals recently which meant undergoing the roast, but I’ve got other About 30,000 patients has access to urgent care right of way scooped a prestigious scrutiny from scheme favourites, like the salads. (the same number services that are integrated Residents are being national award. organiser, the Soil Friend Lucy Hearne, as currently visits the with everyday GP services given the chance to Eden Foodservice, Association, with schools also 10, said: “I really High Street centre) are close to where they live.” have their say on how which works in more than having to show that enjoy my school dinner expected to make use Further information the borough’s network 100 Croydon schools, they were serving high and there’s always of the new centre every is available at www. of rights of way might was awarded the Food levels of local, organic a good choice.” year, with up to 6,000 croydon.nhs.uk develop. Comment for Life Partnership’s and Fairtrade food. Allyson Lloyd, the can be made from 7 Silver Catering Mark, Children from Purley’s council’s schools catering June to 27 August. The which recognises greater Margaret Roper Primary manager, said: “This award improvement plan can be use of fresh, seasonal School were full of praise is wonderful news, and Saying ‘no’ to viewed at www.croydon. and organic ingredients, for their school lunches. gives our pupils, parents, gov.uk/rowip or during including high-welfare Bel Stubley, 7, said: “I staff and governors normal opening hours meat and sustainable fish. enjoy my school dinner, the peace of mind that adult abuse at Taberner House, Park Eden is the first it’s always very nice.” the food served in our Lane, Croydon, and contract catering company With the bone from schools is fresh, honest A week of events will Croydon, Taberner borough libraries. in the UK to receive this her chicken drumstick the and additive-free. focus on the plight of House; borough libraries; vulnerable residents. and the reception area Get Interactive Croydon Safeguarding of Mayday University A website has been Adults Awareness Week, Hospital, Thornton Heath. launched for disabled running from Monday, Voluntary groups, care people who are 14, to Friday, 18 June, homes and day centres keen to get involved aims to raise awareness of across the borough will be in sport. Under the adult abuse and neglect. highlighting the importance auspices of Interactive The programme, of ensuring vulnerable – Disability Equality incorporating World Elder people can remain safe, and in Sport (formerly Abuse Day, will see the what they should do if they the London Sports council’s Pop Service bus suffer abuse or neglect. Forum for Disabled in North End, Croydon, on Groups and People) the site aims Tuesday (15); the Waitrose organisations keen to to change perceptions car park, Limpsfield be involved, by having and attitudes toward Road, Sanderstead, on an information stand disabled people in sport, Wednesday (16); and in or leaflets for members, The site can be found at Bywood Avenue, Shirley, should contact Richard www.interactive.uk.net on Thursday (17). James on 020 8726 6500. Information and Further information literature will be available can be found at www. One-way to all from stalls in Access croydon.gov.uk/sgap working Concerns about rat-running have Darling buds of Croydon prompted Transport for Two of Croydon’s most Londonwide event runs London to make the rarely seen gardens are to over the weekend of 12 and Stafford Road crescent, be opened to the public for 13 June. in Waddon, one way. a weekend in June. One ticket allows entry Following consultation Over the course of to all venues over the with residents and the the 2010 Open Garden weekend. Ticket prices will council, the crescent will Squares Weekend, people be £7.50 in advance, and be limited to northbound will be allowed to wander £9 if bought during the traffic only for an the grounds of Heathfield, weekend (children under 18-month trial period, in Shirley, and South 12 are free). due to begin later in the Croydon’s Whitgift School. For more information go summer. The TfL-sponsored to www.opensquares.org 8 Specialfeature June 2010 | Your Croydon

children in council care 1,400 at the beginning of the year. Here for the children The move to Croydon has been far from glamorous for a social worker from the States, but as she told Richard Gibbs, it has been a rewarding experience.

Tarin Bickford is an interest in some of my made the transition easy American in Croydon – ideas and, while no system and her initial host family one of several recruited that’s as big as Croydon helped introduce her to the from the US to counter a social services can move English way of life. worrying shortfall in the quickly, I really do feel Things we all take for council’s roster of social things are moving in the granted needed explaining workers. right direction. – like how to use the The shortage surprises “This is the first time English toilet, shower and her because she knows in my career that I’ve been washing machine. She was that people do care about given the chance to make horrified to discover that stopping child abuse. such a broad impact on homes aren’t all equipped “Wouldn’t you think what really matters – the with a dryer that does that people who love well-being of children. away with the need for children would want to “Some have been born ironing. be a social worker to help into some pretty horrible Once the agency them?” she said. situations and have no was satisfied Tarin could “It just doesn’t seem to one to protect them except cope with the weather, work like that here.” social workers. everything moved into top In the States, social “The biggest reason I gear to get her across from work is a respected do this job is that I feel I Iowa where the winters are profession that doesn’t can change a child’s life.” colder, the summers hotter, usually get pilloried if a Before coming over to but there’s an awful lot of child is harmed. Croydon, Tarin, 41, had greyness – just like Britain. Qualifying for higher- level social work positions requires a four-year degree “Some have been born into some pretty followed by a three-year horrible situations and have no one to master’s degree – which protect them except social workers” raises its status. Tarin is convinced that foreign recruitment, from only ever travelled within She had done loads of the States as well as India the States and Canada. research but was expected and Australia, could be The prospect of her to hit the ground running: an ongoing solution to sister moving to Europe “It wasn’t like we had six plugging gaps in such a prompted her own interest months to get used to vital service area. in working abroad – and things. They really needed There is no shortage the chance to be based social workers here so we of qualified social workers close to London, with two had to jump in feet first.” in the US and she is sure of her three children in The welcome has been many of them would local schools, and within warm. welcome the opportunity such easy, and cheap, “People have been to pursue what she terms reach of European cities really nice, and that’s been the “brilliant” Every Child was overwhelming. quite startling. Matters agenda that She’s confident the “You go to a big city has created such a good experience will develop in the States and nobody impression internationally. her own career when she talks to you or makes eye “The crazy thing about returns after her work visa contact. You certainly don’t the US and British systems expires. ask for directions, because is that things we do well, And she thinks she’ll be that’s an invitation to be aren’t so good in England, better equipped to pursue mugged. and vice versa. social work at policy level “Here, once people “We must try taking in Washington DC, or heard my accent they the best from both worlds. maybe head to a state that wouldn’t just tell me, That’s why I think having isn’t so progressive in its they’d actually walk me social workers go back and social care responsibilities. there.” forth is such a great idea. The recruitment agency As a child protection Working for the children: Tarin Bickford “I’ve sensed genuine engaged by the council social worker she has Have your e-say at [email protected] Specialfeature 159

This is the first time in my career that I’ve been given the chance to make such a broad impact on what really matters – the well-being of children. Here for the children also experienced the less unconditionally – you many of them haven’t uplifting side of human shouldn’t just have kids reached a level of maturity There are more children and young people living behaviour – the heart- because it will increase where they can give their in Croydon than anywhere else in London – nearly wrenching abuse and your income, help obtain youngsters the attention 80,000 under the age of 18. neglect of young children housing or even improve they need, 24 hours a day, At the beginning of the year, 1,400 children were who desperately need your status. seven days a week. in council care and a further 200 were subject to child someone to look after “And there’s no excuse “Many of them do a protection measures. them. these days for a child to great job. But it makes The number is particularly high because it She’s certainly not result from casual sex. their life so difficult. includes a large proportion of unaccompanied impressed by the idea of “It’s not that “If only they’d wait asylum-seeking children. Also, since the Baby P The biggest babies being regarded as young parents until they’re a little older case, the council has experienced a 40% increase in reason I do this the means to an end. don’t love and better prepared to referrals. “Being a parent should their handle the experience, Child abuse is more than bruises and broken job is that I feel be something that’s children, then there’d be far bones. While physical abuse might be the most visible rewarding and fun. it’s just less chance of them sign, other types of maltreatment, such as emotional I can change a “It’s such a challenging that needing help from abuse or child neglect, can leave long-lasting scars. child’s life. experience that you social workers.” • If you are worried about the safety of a child, call must want it 020 8726 6400 (24 hours). • If you would like to learn about the council’s fostering and adoption services, call 020 8726 6000 ext. 64025. • If you can rise to the challenge of helping to protect vulnerable children, visit http://jobs.croydon.gov.uk

Have your e-say at [email protected] yourcommunity 11

To find out how to go about organising a Big Lunch, visit www.croydon.gov.uk/biglunch Let’s stick together Food, friendship and fun are on the cards as Croydon gets ready for its second Big Lunch.

Residential roads will see every day but rarely They’re sharing more. use your imagination and faq.php will answer come to a standstill next get to spend a couple of “Everyone had a make the party swing. questions you may have month as street parties minutes just chatting with. great time, it was an To find out how to concerning the important are held to mark the It will give people opportunity for people to go about organising subject of public liabilities second Big Lunch. the tools to strengthen meet new people. This will a Big Lunch, visit insurance. Arrangements And that success is to their communities become a regular thing. www.croydon.gov. made with two insurers be built on this July, when through activities such as “It was a chance uk/biglunch will help ease matters. people across Croydon neighbourhood watch; for children to play There you will The Big Lunch website again break out the trestle improving local amenities; together, like I did find information on – www.thebiglunch. tables for a series of taking care of the elderly when I was a child.” such aspects as how com – is also the place It was a chance community gatherings, or disabled; making One of the younger to stage safe events, where events have to held under the banner imaginative improvements lunchers said: “It’s how to arrange road be registered, and the for children to of The Big Lunch 2010. to the local environment; really nice living here closures, and a list of council is keen that you play together, If last year’s event is sharing resources, from now because everybody available green spaces. also register your event like I did when anything to go by, there lawnmowers to cars; and knows everybody.” Schools, too, can get at data.equalities@ will be a boroughwide supporting local charities. While your involved. The Big Lunch croydon.gov.uk I was a child. party atmosphere on Wells Close, in community’s Big Lunch website has a very useful This will enable the Sunday, 18 July, as South Croydon, hosted might take the form ideas guide – www. compilation of a list of residents and community one of the 27 local Big of a simple meal with thebiglunch.com/ local events, and give all groups sit down to Lunches in July, 2009. neighbours, there is ideas-and-inspiration/ registrations the chance share food and to get Organiser Angela almost endless scope for schools-and-youth- of having their Big Lunch to know each other. Pritchard-Wallace said: where and how it can be groups.php featured in Your Croydon. The idea of The Big “We’ve noticed a real held. It might be in your Going to the FAQs So, come on – take a Lunch is to bring together difference since the street or local park, in a section of The Big lead, get involved, stir up communities, to give event; neighbours are school’s playing fields, on a Lunch website, at www. interest, and help knit your people the chance to get chatting more and housing estate’s communal thebiglunch.com/how- neighbours into a caring, to know others they might sitting down together. green, or in a local hall – to-start-a-big-lunch/ cohesive community. 12x yournewscommunity JuneMay 20102009 | Your Croydon

The borough’s favourite dog came to the attention of budding young Croydon designers who kitted him out in this season’s must-have road safety garment. Homing in on the vulnerable Unable to leave her house, Miss P was grateful when the council’s home-visiting team offered her help. Here she tells her story.

I recently moved to my appointment with If you are on low Croydon while I was the visiting team. income, you may be expecting my first baby, After two weeks in able to get help with and I fell ill half way hospital, I came home with paying your rent or through my pregnancy. my daughter and my main council tax. We will Because of my illness, priority was to care for her. arrange a home visit I was unable to work, so Due to her being for you if you call I applied for employment premature I was unable to 020 8667 8336 or support allowance. leave the house with her email croyhbvis@ However, this was never so therefore I was unable croydon.gov.uk granted. Therefore I to sort out my finances. You can also make a had to rely on friends to The visiting service claim by visiting support me with food and called me and explained www.croydon.gov.uk credit for my phone. that, as they had not and clicking on the Due to my financial heard from me, they benefit calculator. situation I fell behind with were contacting me to my rent and my landlord see if I still required Home visit: Hayley Adams is one of the council’s dedicated team was threatening to evict any help. I told them me in my ill health. that I did, and they my daughter outside, she all of the information. visit, I had a phone call I was advised to phone agreed to send a visiting called the Department I was feeling so from the housing benefit Croydon Council visiting officer out to see me. for Work and Pensions depressed at the beginning service who explained that service, and explained Hayley came out to for me and helped me of the year, my focus my claim had all been set my situation to the lady, see me and she really to make an application was on my daughter up and they were able to who was very friendly and made me feel at ease, over the phone. and I had given up hope assist me with my rent. explained that she would she was really caring and She also contacted of any support or help I’m so happy and feel arrange for somebody friendly and helped me to tenancy relations for me with my financial and that a weight has been to visit me in my home complete my application due to my current housing housing situation. lifted off my shoulders. and help me with my form for housing benefit. situation, and arranged Then Hayley came I can now look forward application form. I explained to her an interview for me. to me and waved her to a better future Unfortunately my about my income situation I didn’t have all magic wand, she really with my daughter. illness got worse and I was and she advised me the documents Hayley has helped me so much, I Thank you so much taken into hospital, which about income support. required at the time but feel like I’m dreaming and for providing the visiting resulted in the birth of my As I did not know she said that she was can finally smile. For this service because, without daughter, six weeks early. how to make a claim for happy to come back a I’ll be forever grateful. them, I don’t know As a result, I cancelled this and I could not take few days later to collect Five days after Hayley’s where I’d be. Miss P. Putting on the style This season, the well-dressed dog must be seen in hi-vis orange, dahling – and a local schoolgirl was happy to ensure Hamish McFee looks the part.

Standing proud, Croydon’s to design a tabard for legend: Paws when you’re just, like, ‘wow’.” only four-legged junior road Hamish McFee, a West about to cross a road. Her work won her safety officer looks very Highland white terrier, She said she didn’t a £20 book token and a smart in his new high- to wear while on duty. know where the inspiration presentation of the Smart visibility jacket, designed As long as the for her design came from: Brothers Safety Road for him by Ijeoma Abara, youngsters reflected the “I started with the word Show for her school. a pupil at Winterbourne “be safe, be seen” theme, ‘Hamish’, so everybody Runner-up was Ailsa Junior Girls’ School. they were given free reign would know who he Stelling, of Margaret Ijeoma, from Thornton to come up with an eye- was, and the rest just Roper Primary, in Purley. Heath, was one of more catching look for Hamish. came to me. It took me She received a £20 book than 400 borough primary Ijeoma’s design about an hour to do. token, as did third-placed school pupils to take part in features the outline of a “When I heard Jenna Smith, of St David’s Top dog: Hamish and the winning designers a council-run competition pawprint incorporating the that I’d won, I was School, also in Purley. District Centre Just going to News pay a visit JUNE 2010 Centre provides the answers to more than 100,000 different questions. If you want to top up your Oyster card, book a hotel retailing is a key reason for visitors flocking to the borough, room, get to Brighton by train, find a restaurant that and the centre staff’s local knowledge helps answer many takes vegetarians seriously, or publicise a photographic of the shop questions which customers have. exhibition, relax. When the old tourist information centre in the The Croydon Visitor Centre has it covered. library closed in February 2009, it left the borough short Having assisted almost 110,000 callers in its first 18 of an information point. months, the team in the centre beside East Croydon That gap has now been filled, although the centre station believe they have the answers to pretty much – which is funded by the business improvement district everything. And if they don’t have the answer, they (Bid) – has a wider remit, promoting business and know the people who do. businesses, and raising awareness of the opportunities Spending a morning watching the staff in action is an the area offers. education. At first, some people were confused by the centre’s From the moment the automatic sliding door first role (it doesn’t, for instance, book people on to coach opens, right through to the early evening, the centre trips to Devon – although it does know the local travel deals with as wide a range of queries and posers as it’s agencies that do), but over the months it has built a possible to imagine. loyal, regular customer base. “We’ve turned out to be one of the most successful It supports special events. During the Croydon Food projects, and we’ve just got on with it; learning as much Festival, the centre found that the bright morning sunlight as we can about Croydon to keep the general public flooding in through the plate-glass windows meant aware,” said supervisor Alvin Shivmangal. promotional herbs planted in pots grew like billy-oh! Now busier than ever after celebrating the first “I feel I’ve got to know the area so much better,” anniversary at the turn of the year, the centre’s team added Alvin. blend information-giving, borough promotion and The centre is a place to pick up Your Croydon transport expertise in a role which sees them share “People think it’s a concrete jungle, but dig a little their rich knowledge of Croydon with the public with deeper and you’ll see the efforts being made to draw courtesy, friendliness and professionalism. businesses here.” “We’ve turned into one of the When the model showing how Croydon might And, of course, it’s an excellent point to pick up most successful projects and look after major regeneration was displayed in the a copy of the latest Your Croydon – always on display visitor centre, hundreds of people popped in to see for beside the front door. we’ve just got on with it; keeping themselves. It’s the office with all the answers; the human face of the general public aware” As a top-10 shopping destination in the UK, Croydon the borough of Croydon.

The centre is only a few paces from East Croydon station Rachel Willis at the desk District Centre News

The strangest question ever asked? One of the oddest was a woman searching for early 20th century coins to complete her father’s collection. After phoning around, centre staff found exactly what she was looking for in Cherry Orchard Road. The happy customer sent staff a box of chocolates!

Worcester Business Improvement District is using the Croydon Visitor Centre as a model to establish a similar help point of its own after being impressed with the service during a fact-finding visit.

A steady flow of visitors queues for information The centre has solved domestic “issues”. A student returning to Manchester after the A steady flow of visitors queues for information Christmas break found he had left home with the house cordless phone. It was kept behind the counter and picked up by his mother on her way home! Another person recently left Number crunching her husband’s office keys at the centre after discovering she had inadvertently put them in her bag. All of the near-110,000 individual inquiries made by members of the public at the distinctive curved desk of the visitor centre since it The centre is proving an important link for schools opened on 6 December, 2008, have been sifted and listed by category. preparing exchange trips. As well as helping produce school exchange information packs, the We record questions as they’re asked, then collate Bar One, and they thoroughly enjoyed it.” centre has assisted in planning visitor schedules them hourly and weekly,” explained supervisor Alvin The team keep abreast of special deals that for London and given students advice about Shivmangal. individual restaurants are running, to help customers regeneration projects. The statistics give a clear picture of the peaks and get the best value for money. troughs of centre use, which helps when working out Direction inquiries make up 15.5% of the total, staff rotas. with harassed visitors clutching addresses and looking But the topics are even more useful for future bewildered or wanting to know where Leon House is planning and allocating resources where they are most situated, or how they can get to the bike shop in South needed. Croydon. Unsurprisingly, public transport queries dominate, The most frequently asked questions? After much reflecting Croydon’s importance as a transport hub, and thought the team decided they were: Where’s North the commitment of the business improvement district End? Where’s the High Street? Where’s Mayday (Bid), Croydon Economic Development Company and Hospital? the council to reduce car use. Oyster purchase, top-ups and questions comprise 32% of the centre’s work. Other transport queries account for 5% of the total, with a further 5% being ticket sales and questions about First Capital Connect. Business and Bid questions total 16% of those asked (with around 1% being specific start-up and support inquiries). About 5% of queries are linked to the UK Borders Agency presence in Croydon, with many people confused about which of around 15 different offices they need to visit. Some 3% of questions relate to theatre, cinema, shopping and entertainment within Croydon and its outlying districts. A further 0.4% of questions concern restaurants, with “Where’s good to eat?” cropping up time and again. That question is usually dealt with by a couple of questions in return – What type of restaurant? What price bracket? Centre services More often than not, staff use intuition and judgement to match people to the wide range of eateries in the town centre and districts – an area “Oyster purchase, top-ups where local knowledge is crucial. “Two women in their mid-50s came in and asked me and questions comprise 32% where they could go for lunch,” said Alvin Shivmangal. “Well, it was pretty clear they didn’t want to be Alvin Shivmangal in the centre of the centre’s work.” directed to McDonald’s, so, in the end, we settled for All Beating the recession with helpful advice The recession has led to an increase in business start-up and advice inquiries at the visitor centre – questions the team are happy to receive before pointing the inquirer in the right direction. a behind the centre’s inquiry desk and in the window display Croydon Economic Development Company Centre staff can answer your Oyster enquiries information and messages, while all staff are trained to pass on details of relevant projects and programmes. With 16% of the questions at the centre desk being about local business issues, and about the support the business improvement district (Bid) can give to Is the world enterprise, the centre is proving to be a key early point of contact. As the real expertise for answering the questions your Oyster? lies with the Bid team and district centre managers, the centre directs specific questions to the right person. Racks of targeted leaflets answer many of the Extending use of the popular questions which repeatedly crop up, but, with new initiatives starting all the time, it is still important to link travel card to the capital’s the questioner with whoever has the most up-to-date Overground rail network knowledge of programmes to assist existing businesses and start-ups. presented a new challenge to “Sometimes people looking for business opportunities in the borough are scared of asking the the visitor centre. basic questions, so I see us as being a portal to Croydon; When the Overground rail network in London finally a gateway to getting everyone where they want to go,” joined the Oyster revolution at the beginning of the said supervisor Alvin Shivmangal. year, the Croydon Visitor Centre really came into its Half a dozen information terminals (including own. one disabled-friendly) are available for use, linked to Centre supervisor Alvin Shivmangal was one of a business pages and useful websites such as the Croydon handful of people in the borough who had undergone Town Centre website, Transport for London, Fairfield, full training on the changeover – and was in pole Croydon Economic Development Company, and the Natasha Balgalve with some of the leaflets position to handle the tidal wave of inquiries which Business Improvement District. followed the roll-out on 2 January. It was fortunate he had attended the transport seminar. On the first morning the only thing that was crystal-clear was that railway staff at the train station next door hadn’t been adequately briefed on the Watching the waistline implications for passengers. Were travellers required to “touch out” if changing from overground train to Tube? What did tram Staff at Croydon Visitor Centre have to watch their figure – passengers do if they wanted to switch to the train at because of the stream of grateful people who bring them cakes, Wimbledon? “The odd thing was that people who work at the biscuits and chocolate to thank them for their assistance. station were coming into the visitor centre to ask us how it worked,” Alvin recalls. “People do come back and thank us, which is really nice,” Pennsylvania, USA, reads: “My husband and I have been “It’s one of the main things that I’ve picked up said supervisor Alvin Shivmangal. in Croydon for the past two weeks and have come to in this role in the past 18 months; companies are “One family, visiting from Asia, came in every day in your visitors’ centre many times. not educating their staff well enough to pass on a row for three days to explore the possibilities of things “Everyone has been so friendly and helpful, and we information to the public.” to do in the area, and on the fourth day returned with want to thank you for making our visit so much more Centre staff spend a lot of their time patiently a chocolate sponge cake for us!” enjoyable. explaining how the Oyster system works – particularly The testimonials on file speak volumes about the “We think the visitors’ centre is a real asset for your to first-time visitors to Croydon. good service visitors receive. community. We used quite a few of your suggestions for “In January, no one at the station seemed to know “Dear Wonderful Ladies,” starts one from a visitor sightseeing and places to go, and it certainly was nice how the Oyster cards would operate,” added Alvin. from Cambridge. “There are no words to say how having your services available to us.” “Nobody wanted to take responsibility for the new grateful I am for your patient help and understanding Another American couple summed up their feelings. system because they didn’t know enough about it last evening when I realised that my handbag had just “We understand you’re just doing your job, but the themselves!” sped off in a friend’s car. information you showed us and helped us with was Oyster inquiries, top-ups and First Capital Connect “Your prompt aid definitely saved the day, and if you fantastic. train ticket sales make up a significant percentage thought ‘Silly old bag’ about me, you certainly didn’t “We are having a great time in London because of of the centre’s work – underlining the busy office’s show it! you. You took the time to make sure we knew exactly importance in keeping Croydon’s residents, and “Full marks, gold stars, brownie points, the lot!” where and how to get around London. newcomers, informed about the real day-to-day Another, from the Jennings family of Stroudsburg, “This type of kindness comes from the heart.” workings of London’s public transport system. District Centre Use your district News The Famous Five A quintet of friendly faces has the answer to manager almost all questions about Croydon. The Croydon Visitor Centre It all began in October 2008 with a team of two full- who joined in December, while the second part-time maintains close links with time staff and three part-timers. member of staff is Kathy Goldsmith, a community- Today, the Croydon Visitor Centre has three full- minded expert on Croydon’s history who lives in the Croydon Economic timers and two part-time staff – all residents of the Thornton Heath. Development Company and borough, and all bringing their personal knowledge to the equation. the network of district centre So who are the Famous Five? managers which comes The first full-timers were Eleanor Appleton and Alvin Shivmangal. Eleanor – who previously worked under the direction of for the business improvement district – had a detailed knowledge of the arts scene, while Alvin’s background Sharon Baldwin. was in retailing, working for Gap, Miss Selfridge and Ted Baker, all round the south-east. The managers’ job is to promote and Alvin used to live near East Croydon, but now lives in improve the business activity in their New Addington and commutes in via tram. He certainly respective areas, and anyone needing knows his way round London’s public transport network; important knowledge considering the number advice on specific districts is connected to of inquiries on that topic. the relevant person. Liz Shepherd-Jones, who lives in Waddon, brought skills in marketing to the mix, while the other full-time The visitor centre has helped promote member of staff is Rachel Willis, who came in when festivals and markets run in each district, Eleanor decided to go travelling after six months. and publicised the Croydon’s Got Talent The rest of the team included Tania de Vos, a law shows throughout 2009. student whose area of expertise was legal and police There’s always a friendly welcome at the centre desk issues. She has now been replaced by Natasha Balgalve, If you want advice about an area, here is the list of contacts Open all hours Purley Amber Rusk Meeting its customers’ requirements, the visitor centre has 07771 843056 extended the time it can offer them help and advice. [email protected]

In the early days, the centre was open from 8.30am busiest as people pour out of East Croydon station until 6.30pm, with a half-hour extension on Thursdays, searching for office blocks where they are supposed Coulsdon and usual shop hours on Saturdays. to be attending interviews, looking for hotels, seeking Christine Samson However, responding to the pattern of demand, conference locations, and working out how to get from 020 8090 5572 / 07775 824826 the opening hours are now 8am to 6.30pm during the A to B. week, and 9am to 5pm on Saturdays. The time to avoid is Monday mornings between [email protected] The peak times are early morning, lunchtime and 8 and 9am, when everyone piles in to top up their late afternoon, with the 8 to 10am slot by far the Oyster cards. New Addington and Purley Way Ken Sherwood 020 8090 5579 / 07876 034008 London’s prime destination? [email protected] Great transport links, marvellous shopping and affordable lodging South Norwood all help to make Croydon an attractive destination for visitors. Carol Clapperton 020 8090 5575 / 07776 477366 Croydon – rather than Knightsbridge or South “If people are attending conferences and seminars Kensington – is where many overseas visitors to the they need to know where the restaurants, cinemas [email protected] capital choose to stay. and theatres are, too,” he said, adding that the capital’s Why? Because it is so much cheaper to find a hotel sightseeing bus tours were very popular, and could be Crystal Palace/ Upper Norwood or guest house in Croydon than it is in central London. booked through the centre. Thanks to links such as the X26 bus (Croydon centre Local enterprise is also supported by centre staff, Sharon Baldwin to Heathrow Airport for £1.20 using an Oyster card), directing people to the smaller, family-run B&Bs and [email protected] many regular visitors to London now come straight to guesthouses. Croydon, find a hotel and then explore the south-east Many overseas visitors have already armed using the area’s integrated transport links. themselves with names and addresses via internet Thornton Heath, Selhurst and The centre has good connections with the main research before their trip, but still need directions and Croydon hotels (who pay a small booking fee to the advice when they arrive in Croydon. Norbury centre, which helps pay for the service) including Jurys Although many visitors start off just treating Jason Grant Inn, Premier Inn, Travelodge and the Hilton, and all are Croydon as a “dormitory”, centre staff can widen their 07771 842945 / 020 8090 5577 packed during the summer. horizons by also letting them know what the town “It’s not a huge money-spinner for us; it’s more itself, and the outlying districts, can offer. [email protected] about building a good relationship with our local hotels,” “Particularly in the retail sector, Croydon and its said Alvin Shivmangal, who said that the centre was also districts have an eclectic mix of shops, especially small working on promoting conferences in Croydon. specialised businesses,” said Alvin. Have your e-say at [email protected] yourbusiness 13

Childcare in Croydon is becoming increasingly competitive – there are excellent opportunities in this borough. Derek Hayes, senior consultant Childcare – it’s a growing business Nurseries in Croydon are flourishing thanks to specialist advice from a network dedicated to kids’ stuff.

Job creation, business number of local nursery brings with it a number to reap the rewards, expansion and increased companies have registered of advantages, including especially important profits – three of the a marked upswing in the chance to share best in today’s challenging principle aims of any turnover and profits. practice with fellow economic climate. enterprise keen to offer Additionally, capital members, as well as Senior consultant Derek a sustainable future, for grants have helped receiving expert advice on Hayes said: “Childcare customers and staff alike. in the expansion of business-related topics. in Croydon is becoming Thanks to the help businesses, resulting in The Croydon Childcare increasingly competitive. and support offered by the creation of new jobs. Business Network has “There are excellent the Croydon Childcare The network’s aim been offering help for opportunities in this Business Network, a is to ensure a healthy almost three years. borough, such as those scheme managed through childcare sector and to It encourages available through the the Croydon Economic support local businesses. businesses to make the Croydon Enterprise Development Company, a Network membership most of its support and programme, to support local entrepreneurs.” If you think the Jo Bennett recently opened a branch of Little network could help your Johnson and Yetty Osonaike run two popular Learners Nursery, in Selhurst, creating six new company, call the Croydon Alpha Day Nurseries, in Thornton Heath and jobs. Enterprise business support Woodside. “I started planning to open a second nursery in hotline “Since meeting with our adviser, we’ve given our 2009, and one of my first thoughts was to get in on 020 8680 6161 or visit business a thorough facelift,” said Yetty. touch with my adviser from the network,” she said. www.croydonenterprise. “And, since implementing the recommended com “I’ve found that official help lines can take an age follow-up procedures, our viewings are more Your Croydon spoke to to get back to you, especially with enquiries about fruitful. employment law, but the Croydon Enterprise team the owners of two firms “Now we’re working with our adviser to gain has the answers at their fingertips. that have seen real benefits from their involvement planning permission to build an extension to “It’s really good to know you can tap into their expand our Woodside nursery, so we can assist knowledge.” with the childcare business network. more parents in the area.” Trading opportunities growing in the East Growth forecasts prompt local business leaders to set trading sights on Asian markets.

With a view to making and 83rd respectively. Lisa McCance, director the borough a truly Gateway Asia is set to of programmes at the international trading hub, play an important role in CEDC, said: “Gateway Asia the Croydon Economic improving south London’s will address an identified Development Company access to these unfamiliar gap in improving trade links Congratulations: members of the centre team with Elizabeth Loader (CEDC) is backing an markets, and helping with key Asian markets. initiative to build stronger local firms get to grips “It will improve the business links in Asia. with different economic potential of businesses 100,000 and counting The Gateway Asia and political systems. in south London through programme aims to marry Banking group Goldman customised support Croydon Visitor Centre reaches impressive milestone. up local small and medium- Sachs predicts that China focusing on import and sized enterprises with the will become the second export channels. Elizabeth Loader was only in December, 2008, with enquiries we’ve had vast, emerging markets largest economy in the “Its successful delivery popping in to top up her the aim of providing from London tourists of India and China. world by 2016 and overtake will bring new jobs, Oyster card, but she left crucial information about who come to Croydon At first glance, China the US as the world’s business investment clutching a bottle of bubbly central Croydon, and can to find high-standard and India may not seem largest economy by 2041. and other economic and a bunch of blooms. be found just next door accommodation at lower- easy places to do business. By 2025, India alone opportunities. Mrs Loader’s recent to East Croydon station. than-city-centre prices.” In 2008, the World will have around 500m “Delegations of call in at the Croydon Manager Alvin Saying she was Bank ranked Britain as teenagers – the most brand- businesses from India Visitor Centre proved to Shivmangal said: “Very soon delighted with her the sixth easiest place to conscious consumers of and China have already be momentous as she was we’ll be adding West End unexpected gifts, Mrs do business in the world, all – keen to own clothes, been confirmed, with its 100,000th visitor. theatre tickets to our offer. Loader gave the centre compared to India and phones and music from visits planned for Run by Croydon Bid, “This service is in her best wishes for its China, ranking 122nd around the world. later in the year.” the centre was launched response to the many continuing success. 14x yoursafetynews JuneMay 20102009 | Your Croydon

Young people aged 13 to 17 are more likely to be victims of robbery than any other age group, and the item most likely to be stolen is their mobile phone. Met matters Hanging up on Here’s to a fantastic feast of football fun the robbers As a lifelong football fan, across London who I believe young people I can’t wait for the World are subject to football must be at the forefront of Teenagers to get advice on how to safeguard their Cup to kick off on June banning orders have our work to make Croydon property. 11. already been asked to safer, and if we don’t With loads of Croydon surrender their passports involve them in policing Young people aged under stolen is their mobile phone. stations and other busy pubs and clubs planning ahead of the World Cup. now we risk alienating 17 will benefit from moves “We’re not suggesting areas. to show England games, I’m confident we’ve them forever. to cut the number of mobile young people shouldn’t As well as asking young the atmosphere in our got a plan that’s match Earlier this year phone robberies. carry phones – they can people to stay aware, a key town and district centres fit – so let’s hope Wayne Croydon police launched The campaign has been help them stay safe in many element of the campaign should be fantastic. Rooney’s the same. Met in the Middle – a role- launched in the borough’s ways – but we want them to is to get young people to For months Croydon On another point, playing initiative to bridge schools and youth clubs, think about how and where register their phone at police have been I was saddened by the gap between police and on its streets, by they use them. www.immobilise.com. preparing for this huge the death of teenager officers and young people, Croydon Council and the “The message is – stay In addition to sporting event – and Wesley Stirling in April, a particularly when carrying police. aware when using your promoting the website I don’t just mean me needless waste of a young out stop-and-search. It aims to raise phone in public places, through posters, council ironing my England strip. life. Now I want to go awareness of how particularly busy places like and police officers will be We’ve been working Through our anti- further. youngsters can protect transport hubs where there offering to go into schools with the council’s knife crime initiative, I’m meeting youth themselves and their is a lot going on and its easy and help pupils register licensing team and pub Operation Safe for All, groups across the borough property, particularly mobile to get distracted. their phones on the site. landlords to ensure the council and we have on a regular basis, with phones, and prevent them “Don’t make your phone Doing this can help the match days and post- made real progress in a view to developing an becoming victims of theft. a moving target.” police to recover property if match celebrations (yes, taking weapons off the advisory group on youth Inspector Sue Thomas, Posters will be going is it is stolen – and to catch I’m being optimistic) go streets and preventing crime. of the Safer Schools team, up in secondary schools the thieves. smoothly. knife crime. But it’s not just about said: “Young people aged and youth clubs across the Tony Brooks, the Croydon’s a great But one incident is young people – I want 13 to 17 are more likely to borough, and police officers council’s director of public place to go out, and I one too many, particularly to hear more on policing be victims of robbery than will be handing out leaflets safety, said: “We’d advise want everyone visiting when it involves such a from all sections of the any other age group, and to young people at bus and anyone who has a mobile our borough on match young life. community. the item most likely to be train phone, whatever days to have a good time, In my time as borough I’ve been attending a their age, to whether they’re there to commander, I have series of public question register it as soon watch football or not. quadrupled the amount of times on crime, held with as possible. That means making stop-and-search that takes Croydon Council, and “If it’s stolen, sure football fans behave place in Croydon and I there are more planned for it increases responsibly when they’re make no apology for that. the rest of the year. Don’t make your Mobile Phone your chances of out and about, and that Wesley’s death At the last meeting, in getting it back. they don’t drink too much confirms my view – that Shirley, people wanted to a moving Target “It also and spoil it by getting out tackling knife crime must know how the economic helps the police of hand. remain a priority. climate is going to affect to catch those We’ve given advice In fact, despite the fact policing in Croydon. responsible and to licensees about ways that the vast majority of I have to make savings bring them to they can help prevent stop-and-search is carried of about 5% – but I’m not justice – taking antisocial behaviour in out on young people, taking any police officers robbers off the their pubs and bars. most of them tell me they off the front line. streets.” And, as our town and support this policy. We’re making savings district centres are likely Stop and search, knife by transferring some back- to be busy as people head arches, and our officers office staff to other parts in to watch the games, policing routes home of the Met. we’ve got additional from school make them I’m looking forward police resources on hand. feel safe, because the sad to hearing more from you During England truth is, although young as the meetings resume matches, extra police people are more likely to following the elections officers will patrol busy be suspects, they are also – until then, for dates of areas, supported by the more likely to be victims. public meetings on crime, council’s mobile CCTV What’s important or if you want more info unit and enforcement to them is the way that about policing in Croydon, officers. searches are carried out, log on to www.met. Don’t tempt mobile phone thieves, Croydon’s team will and the respect they’re police.uk/croydon be aware when making a call. also work closely with shown at the time. Police and other uniformed officers are on street and happy to help. the central Metropolitan So, we need to ensure Alert them if you spot anyone acting suspiciously– this or havehelps concerns the police about recover safety. your In phone an emergency if it is stolen dial and 999. catch the thief. www.immobilise.com Ch Supt Register your phone at Police football unit, that we don’t abuse Visit www.met.police.uk/youngpeople for personal safety advice. which has a dedicated this tactic and that it intelligence cell. remains justifiable and Adrian Roberts

30/03/2010 17:37 Known troublemakers accountable. Croydon borough commander

91481_Mobile_Phone_A3.indd 1 Have your e-say at [email protected] yoursafety 15

We want to maintain a pleasant environment for everyone coming into Croydon, whether they’re here for football, shopping, or another purpose. Inspector Bob Henderson Croydon’s World Cup Susie Rundle looks at the preparations the borough’s publicans, police and council are making for this summer’s festival of football.

Pubs, clubs and, of course, Croydon police have alcohol-fuelled antisocial The Croydon football fans all over been working closely with behaviour, and suggesting Visitor Centre, next Croydon are gearing up for licensees and the council precautions to think about, to East Croydon the sporting event of the licensing team to ensure such as hiring extra door station, will be season. match days go smoothly, staff and using plastic providing information With the World whatever the result. glasses – measures that about where World Cup kick-off looming, Inspector Bob Esther says she will be Cup matches can preparations are well under Hedderman, leading the taking. be watched in the way in watering holes Croydon police team Paul Foster, the council’s town centre, taking get in touch across the borough, with a responsible for public order head of regulatory services, advantage of some of the What do you think large number planning to throughout the World Cup, said: “Croydon’s clubs and great places to enjoy the about Croydon’s World screen all England’s games. said: “We want fans to have pubs are likely to be very experience with friends. Cup plans? Send an Esther Sutton, manager a great time watching the busy on match days – which Insp Hedderman email to yourcroydon@ of The Green Dragon, in tournament. is fantastic. added: “We’re croydon.gov.uk High Street, and winner of “We also want to “However, with such taking lots of the council’s Best Bar None maintain a pleasant large numbers, licence precautions to award, said: “During Euro environment for everyone holders need to think about ensure everyone 2008 there was a fantastic coming into Croydon, ways they can minimise enjoys the atmosphere in Croydon, so whether they’re here for the likelihood of antisocial tournament. we’re really looking forward football, shopping, or behaviour on and around “We’ve to it. another purpose.” their premises. done our “We’ll be screening every Croydon police have “If they don’t do their bit – now it’s England match and look written to all licensees, bit, and there are problems down to the forward to welcoming the reminding them of their as a result, their licence England fans.” responsibility to prevent could be at risk.” team.” 16 yourspace June 2010 | Your Croydon

It showed me what goes on behind those secretive doors of Westminster, and opened up a whole new world of politics in this country. Walking the corridors of power The chance of seeing, up close and personal, political life at the highest level was a tantalising prospect for 15-year-old Robert Cranenburgh, a member of Croydon’s Youth Parliament Action Team.

It all started when I After going through a Northampton and 12 Hodge, the minister entered a competition very extensive diary of young members from for culture, media earlier this year to my day’s events I was her constituency. and sport, where we win the chance to told I was going to Prime I did feel, however, that discussed primary The parliamentary shadow a government Minister’s Questions. the meeting was rushed, schools, and how to under-secretary minister for a day. On arrival at the Palace and Mr Balls left me soon get more culture and The competition of Westminster – which, I afterwards, leaving me truly music into them. of state, Diana was on The Youth of must say, is a spectacular shocked, as it was him who In conclusion, Today website (www. building, giving the aura I was meant to shadow. my day was one that Johnson, was theyouthoftoday.org). of power and might – I I struck gold, however, I will never forget. free and was Several weeks after went to the House of as the parliamentary It showed me what entering, I was sent an Commons chamber. under-secretary of state, goes on behind those willing for me email asking if I was Compared with how Diana Johnson, was free secretive doors of free to shadow children’s it looks on television, it and was willing for me Westminster, to shadow and secretary Ed Balls – came as a great surprise, to shadow and interview and opened interview her for tremendous news! as it’s minuscule. her for my video diary. up a whole On the day, I travelled The debates were We also attended new world my video diary. up to Westminster quite heated, with the a meeting with of politics with a member of the leader of the opposition, Margaret in this Youth Parliament who David Cameron, trying country. was to make a video to undermine the prime diary of my day. minister, who was able We arrived at the to hold his own. Department for Children, I finally met the Schools and Families, and secretary of state when I was introduced to Mr I attended a meeting Balls’ private secretary. he had with the MP for World-class destination Wide boulevards, more pedestrian areas, improved culture and shopping facilities – all are on the cards for central Croydon under exciting new proposals.

A people-friendly, world- people meet and relax. Croydon station, part class town centre will Speeding traffic is a of a key south London result from a series of thing of the past, with transport hub linking master plans aiming to pedestrians, cycle routes trams, buses and taxis. make a visit to Croydon and public transport The five master plans as easy and pleasurable as now taking priority. have been drawn up by possible. College Green, located the council’s urban design Under the proposals, alongside the university, is team in collaboration visitors to central Croydon the place to go for culture with design consultants, will arrive at the world- and entertainment. and the first phases of class East Croydon Alternatively, the town improvements will be seen station, which leads visitor might want to visit over the next two years. into an exciting well- the retail and business The team has been designed urban quarter. outlets in the St George’s working on the plans The station’s new Walk area, and have with developers and footbridge leads directly lunch with friends on the landowners to make sure toward the town-centre rooftop terrace of their Croydon can attract the shops from the platforms. city-centre apartment. investment it needs. The huge public Leaving Croydon, the For more space created from the Underground network information on the old Wellesley Road dual can be accessed by using plans for regeneration carriageway includes the East London line at in Croydon, visit www. Wellesley Road: glimpses into Croydon’s future a city square where the modernised West croydonthirdcity.co.uk Have your e-say at [email protected] yourspace 17

Free computer courses for beginners are being held at Purley Library on Tuesdays until 15 June from 2 to 2.30pm. General IT sessions run from 3.30 to 4.30pm. Contact the library on 020 8726 6900 ext 13262 to book a place. Plenty to see, plenty to do The spring half-term break promises to be a busy week in the borough’s libraries with an exciting programme of free events for Croydon’s younger citizens.

From Saturdays, 29 May for all the family. Booking rhymes and songs for the 3.30pm. 10 years and above. Tuesday, 1 June. 3.15pm, For under-sixes. to 5 June, each library required. whole family: 10.30 to 11am. Paint and glue involved, so Spring insects, butterflies, Thursday, 3 June. will be hosting a variety Friday, 4 June. please wear old clothes. bees and caterpillars – Storytime Picnic at Selsdon of activities, ranging from Stories and songs in Coulsdon Library, storytime session: 11am to Woods (Bird Sanctury, Old nursery rhymes for the Ashburton Park: 11 to Brighton Road, Coulsdon New Addington Library, noon. Three to eight years. Farleigh Road, Selsdon): youngest, to a gaming 11.45am. Meet in the library [email protected] Central Parade, New Thursday, 3, 2.30 to 3.30pm. For families workshop for anybody at 10.45am, please bring Thursday, 3 June. Addington newaddington@ and Friday, 4 June. with children aged four to 11. aged over 10. something to sit on. Butterfly garden craft – make croydon.gov.uk Art and craft bonanza: 11am Please wear suitable clothes, Below is listed a Saturday, 5 June. your own mini garden with Saturdays, 29 May to noon. Up to 15 years. and bring snacks, drinks and selection of highlights but Family Reading Group: 2.15 butterfly-attracting flowers: and 5 June. something to sit on. Meet at for full details contact your to 3.15pm. Please join us! 2.15 to 2.45pm. For under- Rock & Rhyme, nursery Purley Library, Banstead car park. local library or visit www. sevens. Booking required. rhymes and songs for under- Road, Purley purley@ If wet, the activity will take croydon.gov.uk/halfterm Bradmore Green Library, fives and their parents/carers: croydon.gov.uk place in Selsdon Library. Some of the listed Bradmore Way, Old Croydon Central Children’s 11.15 to 11.45am. Saturdays, 29 May Please collect a free family activities, while free, do Coulsdon bradmoregreen@ Library, Croydon Tuesday, 1 June. and 5 June. ticket from either Selsdon require booking. The phone croydon.gov.uk Clocktower, Katharine Froggy Fun storytime and Rock & Rhyme, nursery or Sanderstead Library. For number for all libraries Wednesday, 2 June. Street, Croydon children@ craft: 10 to 11am. rhymes and songs for under- further information, email Liz. is 020 8726 6900. Butterfly garden craft – make croydon.gov.uk Friday, 4 June. fives and their parents/carers: [email protected] your own mini garden with Saturdays, 29 May Half-term storytime: 4 to 10.30am. Friday, 4 June. Ashburton Library, Shirley butterfly-attracting flowers: and 5 June. 5pm. For all ages. All week. Tuesday, 1 June. Baby Rhymetime: 10.15am. Road, Addiscombe 10.30am. Three to 10 years. Rhymetime: 10.30 to 11am. Froggy colouring: drop in and Baby Rhymetime: 10am. Up Up to 18 months. [email protected] Booking required. For under-fives. have a go. to 18 months. Toddler Wiggle & Jiggle: Saturday, 29 May. Storytime: 11.15 to 11.45am. Wiggle and Jiggle: 11am. For 10.45am. 18 months and over. Rock & Rhyme, nursery Broad Green Library, 89 Three to seven years, and Norbury Library, London 18 months and over. rhymes and songs: 11 to Canterbury Road, Broad their parents/carers. Road/Beatrice Avenue, Friday, 4 June. Shirley Library, Wickham 11.30am. For under-fives and Green broadgreen@ Thursday, 3 June. Norbury norbury@croydon. Dig it! Garden-based stories Road/Hartland Way, their parent/carers croydon.gov.uk Rhymetime: 10.30 to 11am. gov.uk and crafts: 10.15am. Four Shirley shirley@croydon. Tuesday, 1 June Wednesday, 2 June. For babies and young Saturday, 5 June. years and above. Booking gov.uk Baby Rhymetime: 11 to Arty-crafty computers, for toddlers. Rock and Rhyme, action- required. Saturdays, 29 May 11.30am under-fives with parents and Wiggle & Jiggle: 11.30am to packed nursery rhymes for and 5 June. Thursday, 3 June. carers – drop-in session: noon. For active toddlers. under-fives and their parents/ Sanderstead Library, Farm Rock & Rhyme, nursery Toddler Wiggle & Jiggle: 10am to noon Thursday, 3 June. carers: 10.30 to 11am. Fields, South Croydon rhymes and songs for under- 10.30 to 11.00am. Big brothers and sisters Warhammer gaming “Let’s have fun at the beach” sanderstead@croydon. fives and their parents/carers: Create your own fantastic welcome. workshop – a tactical game – storytime, followed by art gov.uk 10 to 10.30am. cards for any special Saturday, 5 June. that requires a mixture of and craft activity: 11am to Saturday, 29 May. Saturday, 29 May, occasion: 4 to 5.30pm. Fun Rock & Rhyme, nursery both skill and luck: 2 to noon. Three to seven years. Rock & Rhyme, nursery Stories and crafts session: rhymes and songs for under- 10.30 to 11.30am. This fives and their parents/carers: activity will be repeated from 10.30am. 2.30 to 3.30pm. Wednesday, 2 June. Thursday, 3 June. Baby Rhymetime: 10am. Teddy Bears Storytime Toddler Wiggle & Jiggle: 11am. Picnic: 11.30am to 12.30pm. Nature-themed storytime: Event to celebrate National 4pm. For under-eights. Family Learning Week. Friday, 4 June. Booking required. Butterfly garden craft – make your own mini garden South Norwood Library, with butterfly-attracting Lawrence Road, South flowers:10.30am. Three to 10 Norwood southnorwood@ years. Booking required. croydon.gov.uk Tuesday, 1 June. Selsdon Library, Addington Wiggle & Jiggle, rhymes and Road, Selsdon selsdon@ songs for active toddlers: 11 croydon.gov.uk to 11.30am Saturdays, 29 May Wednesday, 2 June. and 5 June. World Cup Fever – Subbuteo Rock & Rhyme, nursery competition: 4.00pm. Nine to rhymes and songs for under- 14 years. fives and their parents/carers: Friday, 4 June. 10.30 to 11am. Rhymes in the park Tuesday, 1 June. (Grangewood Park – weather Storytime and crafts: 2.15 to permitting): 2pm. 18x specialyournewsfeature JuneMay 20102009 | Your Croydon

The acoustic qualities of the concert hall are unique. They don’t work so well for amplified sound but for orchestral performances they can’t be beaten. The Barr comes down Fairfield’s longest-serving chief executive is standing down after more than 40 years in post. He tells Richard Gibbs that he’s seen a lot of changes in that time.

There are not many jobs in management for four position, operating as an happens, but in my more risk-averse these Derek Barr’s which you can get called years, and arrived in independent charitable opinion we should retain days. Because we’re successor at Fairfield by the Palace and asked Croydon, in 1969, trust throughout his the best and add to it. a self-supporting is Simon Thomsett if it’s OK for a member of keen and eager to use time in control. “The acoustic organisation we have who has more than the royal family to slip in his catering skills. If it were left to qualities of the concert nothing to fall back on if 30 years’ experience and see a show without a It took just five Derek, the venue’s future hall are unique. They the risk goes wrong and in the arts and live lot of hoo-ha. years before he was would be crystal clear. don’t work so well for people don’t turn up.” entertainment. A But, for Derek Barr, appointed Fairfield’s The concert hall, with amplified sound but for Knowing the operation founder member of fixing things with catering manager, a its near-perfect acoustics orchestral performances inside out, Derek is going the Shaw Theatre, in discretion goes with position that placed him for orchestral works, they can’t be beaten. to be a hard act to follow. central London, more the responsibility of on the venue’s corporate should be preserved. “It’s why so many His successor will start recently he has been running Fairfield Halls. management team. And he believes a new recordings have soon – leaving Derek able, chief executive of Just like welcoming Aged 43, Derek Fairfield could be wrapped been made here.” at last, to watch a show the Hackney Empire. the artistes and making became the top man around the concert hall. However, Derek is just for pleasure, rather Look our for more on sure they feel at home in 1992, and now, Retirement, he confident that Fairfield than wondering how it Simon’s ambitions for – whether that’s with 18 years later, is the hopes, will give him will continue to discover might run in Croydon. Fairfield in a future a bunch of flowers, longest serving of the more time to take to the new acts and fill the But whether he will Your Croydon. a dish of caviar or a select quartet to preside water on his 39ft motor place with popular, ever be able to fully ease bottle of brandy. over Croydon’s premier cruiser – precious time and new, artists. off after 40 years as the However, soon the entertainment complex. to think and relax while He was prepared to consummate professional pandering, the talent During that time still in good health. take a risk when giving is something that will spotting and making newer, bigger venues But, when he leaves Croydon’s busking become apparent only as moral judgements will be have emerged, tastes for the last time, Fairfield Duallers a bigger stage this new chapter unfolds. over. The final curtain is have changed and will have to work out than North End and was coming down on Derek’s publicly funded support its future without him. handsomely rewarded get in touch 40 years at Fairfield, a for the arts has become “It’s right and proper as the popular duo job that’s become a way a political punchbag. that those deciding attracted far more than How do you feel of life and has sometimes Partly to overcome the Fairfield’s future should passing shoppers. Fairfield should almost taken over his life. uncertainty of subsidy, look at all the options for “Generally, though, develop? Send an Brought up in Fairfield broke away the building,” he said. we’ve tended to become email to yourcroydon@ FACTfive Wiltshire, he studied from council control “Ultimately, finance croydon.gov.uk hotel, leisure and business as Derek took the top will determine what Car: Mercedes 320E. Reading: thumbing through magazines for technical stuff to do with boating. Music: the Royal Ballet. Best of Croydon: its diversity, the people and the retail offer. What’s worst is the traffic. Imagine the future: I expect to see more glass (in buildings) and I’d like to see more grass. There’s nothing better than seeing The Queen’s Gardens packed out in summer. Have your e-say at [email protected] yourheritage 19

passengers a year now travel on the Tramlink system making it by far the most successful 27m tram system in the country.

2000: Prince Charles is the first royal to travel on our trams 2010: transfer to Transport for London has heralded new livery Ten years old – and better than ever In the same month that Africa’s Mount Cameroon erupted, and London’s Tate Modern first sent tremors through the art world, public transport in Croydon underwent a seismic change with the introduction of Tramlink. Richard Gibbs marks the 10th anniversary of the first tram’s running.

In the 10 years since free travel for the day. services have achieved trips – on the 28km coming into service, The Beckenham route what they set out to do (17.4 miles) network Croydon’s iconic trams opened on 23 May, and – getting people out of and were in need of TfL’s have become so popular the Wimbledon line began their cars by providing extensive refurbishment, Trams’ that the biggest problem services on 29 May. a reliable, fast and which included replacing today is crowding. the original red livery No.1 fan Predicted to carry with the green, grey 20 million passengers a Royal approval came when HRH Prince and blue colours that year within 18 months can be seen today. Tramlink has attracted Charles became the first member of the enthusiasts from all over of opening, Tramlink is royal family to travel on one of our trams Although a possible now being used by 27m extension to Crystal Palace the world. passengers – making it has been shelved, TfL Perhaps the biggest fan was Stephen by far the most successful A royal seal of approval environmentally friendly says its current priority Parascandolo, a young engineer from West tram system in the country. followed a few months form of public transport. is to increase capacity, Wickham who started the unofficial Croydon Work on the £200m later when HRH Prince Transport for London address crowding and Tramlink website – light-rail system began Charles became the first took over the running improve interchanges. www.tramlink.co.uk in 1997, following member of the royal of Tramlink in June Proposals being Tragically, Stephen was killed in a motor Royal Assent for the family to travel on a 2008, making a range considered include accident in 2007, aged only 26. Croydon Tramlink Act tram which glided into of improvements and buying or leasing three years earlier. New Addington on 5 running more services to more trams, increasing The website continues as a fascinating The official opening December, 2000, with the meet passenger demand. service frequencies, and testimony to the development of Croydon’s took place on 10 May, royal pennant fluttering By then, some of the replacing the remaining tram system – and, marking his contribution, 2000, when the New from the wing mirror. vehicles had covered stretches of single track one of the trams carries Stephen’s name. Addington route offered In a decade, tram 1,000,000km – or 40,000 with parallel lines. 20 yourheritage June 2010 | Your Croydon

Along with strike partner Ian Wright and manager Steve Coppell, Mark Bright was a Palace favourite during one of the club’s most successful periods. He told Your Croydon of some of his memories of his time at Selhurst Park. Always look on the Bright side The Croydon links of popular TV sports pundit Mark Bright – who celebrates his 48th birthday on 6 June – go all the way back to 1986 when he began a six-year spell with the Eagles that saw him score an impressive 92 goals in 227 games.

Home is…? Where the heart is – SW11, Battersea. What’s your first Croydon memory? my croydon Driving through Croydon en-route to Selhurst Park, and then Palace manager Steve Coppell telling me that every major If you could give one piece of advice play centre forward, centre half, or in goal. insurance company seemed to have its to someone, what would it be? I used to carry his gloves to the pitch while head office in Croydon. Learn from your mistakes. he had a cigarette. I was about eight or nine years old. What’s your life philosophy? What’s your favourite memory of I’m not perfect, but I always try and do the Croydon? Four-four-two or diamond? right thing. Too rude to print. I’ve always loved four-four-two.

Do you have a guilty Croydon Who is your hero? Can England win the World pleasure? A guy called George Fryer, he played for Cup this year? Used to be Kembers Wine Bar, in High Kidsgrove Athletic, in Stoke on Trent, and I’d love to see it in my life time, Street, on the corner of West Street. my local pub team, The Galley. He could never mind this year. YES WE CAN. Dragons heading for Croydon Artefacts from the British Museum make this autumn’s Clocktower exhibition a must-see event for families.

Fire-breathing monsters that were eventually vanquished by the valiant St George – that’s the myth, and the stuff of children’s tales for generations. Local children will be given the chance to fuel their fantasies this autumn when the Museum of Croydon stages an exciting new exhibition Wood David by Photography Croydon. of Museum © called Dragon Tales. Designed with family Delicate: a ceramic from the Riesco collection involvement in mind, the exhibition will feature he died in 1964. British Museum, bringing four outstanding objects The collection stunning objects from their depicting St George comprises more than collections to Croydon, slaying the dragon, 200 amazing pieces, and raising awareness of loaned to Croydon by covering nearly 4,000 our own treasures with a the British Museum. years of Chinese history whole new audience.” The exhibition will Now, a grant from The exhibition will feature the icons – dating Renaissance London is open at the end of from the 16th century, helping fund a makeover of September, supported by and depicting St George, the gallery, and to forge a a great new programme the dragon and the new long-term partnership of events for families. princess – alongside with the British Museum. Look out for more Croydon Clocktower’s own Rob Shakespeare, head information in the next impressive collection of of Croydon’s museum edition of Your Croydon, Dragons: fiery fun for all the family Chinese dragons featured and heritage service, or sign up to join the in the Riesco Gallery. internationally renowned Raymond Riesco, who who left his fabulous said: “This project is a mailing list at www. The gallery houses collection of Chinese lived at Heathfield House, collection to the people fantastic opportunity museumofcroydon. the Museum of Croydon’s ceramics, named after in South Croydon, and of Croydon when for us to work with the com Have your e-say at [email protected] yourheritage 21

In its heyday the Palace, as it was known, stood alongside other great names as a premier venue in the motorsport calendar. Racing into the past The roar of engines is set to rekindle memories of yesteryear when motorsport returns to Crystal Palace. Image copyright S.S. Collins S.S. copyright Image

If you were asked to in May 1899. Monday, 1953, saw more Sevenoaks and District at work, and chat to name three circuits that Over the decades, the than 100,000 fans gather. Motor Club and title the drivers in the open defined British motor simple oval design of the Despite its popularity, sponsor, the Ancaster paddock, while, on racing you’d properly circuit morphed into a an increased focus Group, motorsport is track, a host of famous mention Silverstone and series of different shapes, on safety over the set to return to the racing cars from across Brands Hatch, maybe as the sport became more following years – and the park this summer. the decades will battle Donnington or Goodwood. popular and fans from accompanying financial Motorsport at the for supremacy. Few would include across the country came to requirements – placed Palace on 30 and 31 For young or old Crystal Palace in that see their heroes in action. a substantial drain on May will see the classic alike, what better way list, but in its heyday the cars of yesteryear to spend a Bank Holiday Palace, as it was known, reacquainted with this weekend than revelling stood alongside those Motorsport at the Palace will see the charismatic venue for a in the sights, sounds and other great names as a classic cars of yesteryear reacquainted two-day sprint event. smells of classic racing premier venue in the with this charismatic venue Competitors will cars, and, in the process, motorsport calendar. race along a section of breathing fresh life into The great names of the old track in a bid a forgotten piece of motor racing – Ferrari, In 1953 the final funds, eventually forcing a to set the fastest time south London history? Mercedes, Alfa Romeo – “definitive” change to closure of this popular and of the day, mirroring all made the trip across the circuit’s design, respected circuit in 1972. the hill-climb event at Europe, up from Dover, incorporating the Motorsport did the famous Goodwood through Catford, Croydon daunting North Tower return briefly to the park Festival of Speed. and Thornton Heath, to Crescent bend, was made. between 1997 and 2000, For more set up camp and do battle It was on this variant when local enthusiasts information log on to in the shady confines of that legends such as staged a series of sprint motorsportatthepalace. the south London park. Jim Clark, John Surtees, events on a section of the co.uk/ In fact, Crystal Palace Stirling Moss, Graham old track, but projects Visitors will has the distinction of Hill and Jackie Stewart planned to celebrate have the rare being the first purpose- would compete, drawing the millennium in the opportunity built race track in the vast crowds of people who park again silenced to get close to country, having been cheered on the action. the roar of engines. some classic created by a group The Coronation However, thanks to machines, see of pioneer motorists Trophy races held on Whit the tireless efforts of the mechanics 22 yourevents June 2010 | Your Croydon

Fairfield, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 1DG Box office 020 8688 9291 Book online at www.fairfield.co.uk where you can choose your own seats. A booking fee of £2.25 per ticket may apply Fairfield

Tuesday 1 June 1.05pm Saturday 5 June 7.30pm Saturday 12 June 8.30pm Tuesday 22 June 1.05pm Friday 25 June 8pm Lunchtime event: Jim Davidson – If I Ruled Monsters of British Rock Lunchtime event: From The Jam Nicholas McCarthy the World Classic ’70s and ’80s blues/ Crispian Steele-Perkins From The Jam gained an Nicholas McCarthy began The king of comedy is back rock songs played by a hot and Leslie Pearson immediate reputation for to play piano at the age of with his most outrageous band fronted by two founder Performing music from the kind of incendiary “live” 14. Born without his right show yet! £20 members of the original Handel’s time to Gershwin’s, performances that sealed hand, he is one of a few left- Whitesnake – guitarist Micky the pair use instruments of the reputation of The Jam all handed pianists worldwide. Mon 7 to Sat 12 June Moody and bassist Neil the appropriate period and those years ago. £20 £5, ShowCard £4.50 7.45pm, Wed & Sat mat Murray. £20 Wednesday 16 June 8pm entertainingly show how they 2.30pm Film: Remember Me work. £5, ShowCard £4.50 Sunday 27 June 5.30pm Stepping Out Monday 14 June 8pm Starring Robert Pattinson. Tindle’s Dance & Drama Mavis Turner holds her Committed ’10 Tyler has a strained Tuesday 22 June 7.30pm Studios tap class every Thursday. Jo Brand, Arthur Smith, relationship with his father Latin Fever A selection of classical In stumbles her well- and Kevin Day and guests, ever since tragedy separated Join Darren Bennett and ballet, modern jazz, tap intentioned, but not overly appearing on behalf of their family. £5, ShowCard Lilia Kopylova (Strictly Come and musical will delight and talented, troupe, all brought Committed ‘10, the annual £4.50 Dancing) and four leading amuse. www.tindlesdance. together to dance as if charity benefit for Croydon Latin American dancing co.uk. £10, £12 no one is watching, and, Commitment’s Trust. Thursday 17 June 7pm duos on a journey into the with luck, no one ever will! £17.50, £19.50 KS2 Whole Class world of Latin American Tuesday 29 June 1.05pm That’s until they’re invited Instrumental Festival dance. £36, £38.50 Lunchtime event: to perform at a charity gala. Tuesday 15 June 1.05pm A celebration of the musical Croydon Music Festival Starring Brian Capron and Lunchtime event: Piano 4 achievement of more than Tuesday 22 June 7.45pm Another chance to witness Anita Harris. £15 - £22.50 Hands 1,000 young musicians at In Dreams some talented performers Tue 1 to Sat 5 June 10am, Joseph Tong and Waka Sutton primary and junior Featuring the music of from this year’s Croydon gala performance Sat 6pm Hasegawa were prize schools. Roy Orbison, The Everly Music Festival. A varied Croydon Music Festival winners at the Tokyo £7.50, £8, students/OAPs £6 Brothers and Buddy Holly. selection of all kinds of The dance section of the International Piano Duo A truly spectacular night’s music, dance, speech and Croydon Music Festival Competition. A performance Thursday 17 June 7.45pm entertainment. £16.50 drama performed by people showcases young on two pianos, including Boot-Led-Zeppelin of all ages. £5, ShowCard performers from across the Fairfield’s new Steinway. The definitive tribute to one Wednesday 23 June £4.50 south-east. A wonderful The programme includes of the world’s legendary rock 7.30pm opportunity to enjoy Chopin’s Rondo for two bands, Led Zeppelin. Close Festiva ‘10 performances ranging from pianos, and Stravinsky’s attention to detail, and sheer A musical spectacular of classical ballet to Asian The Rite of Spring. presence and energy on classic songs from the 1950s dance. £4 for each day, £10 Tuesday 8 June 1.05pm £5, ShowCard £4.50 stage, ensure the audience through to the ’90s brought all sessions Lunchtime event: Edward is taken on a journey back in to you by the Brit School, on Hughes & Gamal Khamis Wednesday 16 June time. £16 behalf of local charity Wed 2 & Thu 3 June Exciting young tenor and 2.30pm Croydon Commitment. £10 7.30pm, Thu matinee piano duo performs two Forces Sweethearts Saturday 19 June 2.30pm per ticket, family ticket £25 2.30pm sublime and contrasting Featuring all the old Spurgeon’s College Swan Lake song cycles by Robert favourites from the great Graduation and Thursday 24 June 7pm Presented by the St Schumann and Ralph vocalists who helped raise Commissioning We Sing U Sing Summer Petersburg Ballet Theatre Vaughan Williams. morale during the wartime Marking the culmination Song 2010 and Orchestra, you will enjoy £5, ShowCard £4.50 ’40s. £10 of studies for both Children and young people an evening of passion and undergraduates and from across the borough magic. £28, £30 Wed 9 & Thur 10 June Wednesday 16 June postgraduates, celebrating are brought together for a 7.30pm 7.45pm their success and God’s celebration of gospel music. Friday 4 June 8pm Film: La Danse Strictly Swing goodness. For more info go £9 from 7 May, £12 from Tuesday 29 June 7.45pm One Love Africa Showing how a ballet Aan upbeat celebration to www.spurgeons.ac.uk 7 June Judy Collins An African tribute to Bob company functions, from of swing, encapsulating For nearly 45 illustrious Marley with interpretations of administration, technical the best-loved music of Saturday 19 June 8pm Thursday 24 June 7.30pm years she has graced our his music being performed support and classes, to the legendary artists Frank Jongleurs On Tour National Youth Jazz ears, and her poetic lyrics by African artists, featuring rehearsal and performance Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Jongleurs brings to Fairfield Orchestra galvanised a generation. Osibisa, Mory Kante and of seven ballets, including Bing Crosby. £15.50, £17.50 the biggest and funniest London premier of The £21.50 Dele Sosimi. £21.50 Romeo and Juliet by Sasha stars from the clubs. £12 Solstice Suite, a four- Waltz. £5, ShowCard £4.50 movement representation of Wednesday 30 June 7pm Friday 4 June 8pm Monday 21 June 7.30pm the year, including settings of Let Your Feet Compete Sacrebleu the cabaret Fri 11 & 25 June 9pm. An evening with Derek two poems by John Donne. Dance-a-thon 2009-10 A new regular first Friday of Doors Open 8pm Acorah £18 Dance competition the month event comprising Croydon Comedy Club Bringing his hugely summarising weeks of hard music, comedy, sketches Edinburgh previews entertaining evening of Friday 25 June 7.45pm work of young Croydon and anything else that Terrific previews from acts psychic abilities back by Mad About the Musicals dancers. Excitement, happens along... it could tipped to break through at popular demand. There are Two hours of unforgettable passion, joy, a variety of even be you! See www. this year’s Edinburgh Fringe no guaranteed or certain West End and Broadway themes and dance genres sacrebleucabaret.com Festival. results and the show is for favourites, with the stunning plus celebrity judges – not to Bar ‘til 11pm. Food available. www.croydoncomedy.com the purposes of amusement talents of a live band and a be missed! £7, children and £14.50, Concessions £12.50 £9 and entertainment. £18, £19 West End cast. £17.50 concessions £4 yourevents yourdiary 23

Croydon Clocktower, Details of all Croydon Katharine Street, Croydon Council meetings can be Ticket office:020 8253 1030 found on the council website Online: www.croydonclocktower.org.uk at www.croydon.gov.uk/ meetingsofthecouncil Clocktower Dates for your diary

Thurs 3 June 7.30pm Children’s summer Council Will Adamsdale: programme Deadlines for public questions for forthcoming full council meetings (all start at 6.30pm). The Human Computer Noon on the relevant deadline date This is a show about Saturday 5 June, Meeting: Monday 19 July Deadline: Monday 5 July computers by someone who 11am & 2.30pm knows nothing about them. Wed 16 June 7.30pm The Nightingale £10/£8 concessions Crime of the Century £6/concessions £5 To submit a question (maximum number of words: 50) for consideration at a full council Revisiting the build-up to, meeting, email it to [email protected]; fax it to 020 8760 5657; and repercussions of, one Saturday 12 June, print and complete the form at www.croydon.gov.uk/councilquestion and post it to fatal moment, Chickenshed’s 11am & 2.30pm Questions for the council, Democratic and legal services, Taberner House, Park Lane, explosive dance theatre Billy Goats Gruff Croydon CR9 3JS; or call 020 8726 6000 extn 63876. company turns its attention £6/concessions £5 to the proliferation of knife Scrutiny crime amongst young Saturday 19 June, people. £10/£8 concessions 11am & 2.30pm Meeting: 15 June Scrutiny & Overview The Lighthouse Keeper’s Wed 23 June 7.30pm Lunch Fri 4 June 7.30pm Odyssey £6/concessions £5 Neighbourhood Partnership Showstopper! One Actor. One hour. One Neighbourhood partnership meetings start at 7.30pm The Improvised Musical man’s epic quest to reunite A new musical is created with his family. Passionate, Meeting: 9 June from scratch at each highly physical, and Group: Addiscombe, Woodside and Ashburton performance of this award- poignant storytelling brings Venue: Ryelands Primary School, Albert Road, SE25 4QL Homer’s breathtaking winning production. Your Meeting: 16 June adventure to life. A journey suggestions help create a Group: Broad Green and Waddon that will ignite the show on the spot. Venue: Salvation Army (Citadel) Community Hall, Booth Road, CR0 1XY £10/£8 concessions imagination and awaken the senses. £8/£6 concessions Meeting: 23 June Wed 9, Thu 10 & Fri 11 Group: Coulsdon East and Coulsdon West June 7.30pm Venue: Richmond Hall, Fourth Drive, Coulsdon CR5 3BD Catcher by Richard Hurford Saturday 26 June, Meeting: 30 June New York, Dec 8, 1980. 11am & 2.30pm Group: Thornton Heath, Bensham Manor and West Thornton Mark Chapman shoots and Peter and The Wolf Venue: Parchmore Youth and Community Centre, 55 Parchmore Road, CR7 8LY kills John Lennon. A hotel £6/concessions £5 room, Dec 7, 1980. Mark For information on Neighbourhood Partnerships, visit the website at Chapman opens The Saturday 03 July, 11am & www.croydononline.org/neighbourhood_partnerships/, Catcher in the Rye and reads Fri 25 June 8pm 2.30pm email [email protected], as the book’s hero Holden Chris Wood + Support The Dragon’s Daughter write to Neighbourhood Partnerships, Democratic and legal services, Taberner House, Caulfield brings an escort to Heralded as “the £6/concessions £5 Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3JS or call 020 8726 6000 extn 62564 or 64919. his hotel room. To talk. Mark renaissance man of English picks up the phone and folk”, Chris Wood’s music Saturday 10 July, does the same. 24 hours reveals his love for the 11am & 2.30pm Croydon Community Police Consultative Group later, Lennon is dead. £10/£8 unofficial history of these How The Koala Learnt To Meetings of the Croydon Community Police Consultative Group are held in the Council concessions isles. £10/£8 concessions Hug £6/concessions £5 Chamber of the Town Hall. All are open to the public and begin at 6.30pm. For further information, go to www.croydononline.org/ccpcg Wednesday, 7 July; Wednesday 8 September; Wednesday 10 November. David Lean Cinema Details of all Croydon Council meetings can be found on the council website at www.croydon.gov.uk/meetingsofthecouncil The Ghost (15) Vincerre (15) The Girl On The Train (TBC) Fri 04 to Thu 10 Jun Fri 11 to Thu 17 Jun Fri 25 Jun to Thu 01 Jul The Bad Lieutenant (18) Turtles Can Fly (15) Eyes Wide Open (12A) Fri 04 to Thu 10 Jun Wed 16 & Thu 17 Jun Wed 30 Jun & Thu 01 Jul No Greater Love (TBC) The Killer Inside Me (18) Contact us Wed 09 & Thu 10 Jun Fri 18 to Thu 24 Jun Robin Hood (12A) The Brothers Bloom (12A) General enquiries Housing Environmental reporting Fri 11 to Thu 17 Jun Fri 18 to Thu 24 Jun T: 020 8726 6000 T: 020 8726 6100 T: 020 8726 6200 Nanny McPhee (U) Opening hours F: 020 8760 5745 E: contact.enviroteam@ (Autism-friendly screening) 8am-7pm (Monday), E: [email protected] croydon.gov.uk Sat 19 Jun 8am-6pm (Tuesday-Friday) Planning and building Adult social services Dogtooth (18) F: 020 8760 0871 control Tel: 020 8726 6500 T: 020 8726 6800 Fax: 020 8633 9428 Wed 23 & Thu 24 Jun Minicom: 020 8760 5797 Greenberg (15) F: 020 8760 5406 Email: referral.team2@ Email: contact.thecouncil@ Fri 25 Jun to Thu 01 Jul E: planning.control@croydon. croydon.gov.uk croydon.gov.uk gov.uk croydon:Layout 1 27/4/10 16:00 Page 1

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