Local News is our Aim
THE www.glh.co.uk Professional Sales & Lettings 020 8883 5000 AT COMPETITIVE RATES CARS & COURIERS 020 8444 5222 [email protected] February 2011 No. 208 20p ARCHER ISSN 1361-3952 wheresold A community newspaper for East Finchley run entirely by volunteers. Tenants circle Park House By Janet Maitland Another chapter in the chequered history of Park House has begun. On 13 January, Barnet Council agreed that the prime site opposite the tube station can be let for ofice use for a maximum of ive years. The council building, which has become increasingly dilapidated since the last tenants left in August 2007, will inally produce some income. The letting will also buy Barnet organisational ability available in the time to consider the long-term East Finchley, smaller organisa- future of Park House. Although tions and community enterprises major national companies may want should be able to do something to develop the site in the long term, about the future of Park House, the ive-year let will allow time for rather than a major national rede- smaller local organisations to bid veloping the site.” too. Local resident James Elliot, A council spokesman said: “We who wrote to THE ARCHER in Janu- Artists and ilm-makers Denise Wyllie and Clare O Hagan pictured with David Jason are looking to let the building to one ary complaining that Barnet was of four interested parties subject to making no real effort to sell or at Monaco’s 2010 Angel Film Festival. Full story on page 5. due diligence being completed.” let Park House, is still concerned. Short lets unworkable “We don’t yet know who will be Council oficers say the value of the tenants for the next ive years. Decision day on council Park House lies in its development It could be a big national, putting potential, not in the current build- a foot in the door by renting ofice ing. However, because of the poor space. The ive-year let may be the economic climate, it is not attract- council stalling, waiting for the big services and charges ing the level of interest needed to ish to come along.” Barnet Council is expected to make a number of decisions on its 2011 spending plans sell it. Expressions of interest have Near misses at a cabinet meeting on 14 February. These are likely to affect many local services been received but have been unac- In 2005 local protests led to ceptably low. Two-year lets have the withdrawal of a developer’s and amenities, including parking charges, children’s centres and allotments. proved too short to enable prospec- proposal to build a superstore Parking charges allow Newstead Children’s Centre living outside the borough. tive tenants to recoup the investment with parking on site, including If you live within a Control- to survive, but as yet nothing is Last minute lobbying by allot- needed to improve the poor state of adjoining land up to Baronsmere led Parking Zone, you may see a deinite. ment holders across Barnet has the building. It is hoped a ive-year Road, backed up by the threat of sharp increase in charges. Barnet Allotment rents treble made the council defer the rise lease will provide enough time for compulsory purchase. Council is proposing to increase There are concerns that Barnet from this April until April 2012 the council to investigate the best Later it looked as if The Institute the annual charge for a irst car Council is planning a steep rise in but they are still angry at the size development options. would buy Park House, but they from £42 to £100 and for a second allotment rents. The cost of a stand- of the increase. An e-petition of car from £75 to £125. A book of protest organised by the allotment Rousing local enterprise were unable to proceed and vacated ard-sized plot would go up from the building when their temporary ten vouchers for visitors may rise about £60 a year to £170 for Barnet Federation can be accessed at Councillor Colin Rogers from £10 to £48. residents and £340 for people www.barnetallotments.org.uk believes several competing bids lease expired in 2007. Subse- quently, development company The cost of pay and display on- are likely, from big national compa- street parking is also set to rise but nies interested in developing retail Cathedral exchanged contracts for the site in early 2008, but decided the situation is more complex. or residential premises. However, Full details of the proposed VICTORY AUTO SERVICES he hopes a spirit of localism will to withdraw from the sale for legal reasons. changes can be found on be ired up. “With the talent and the Council’s website: (http:// committeepapers.barnet.gov.uk/ Air-Conditioning - Recharge & Servicing 82 High Road democracy/documents/getdoc_ East Finchley ext.asp?DocID=88900) Mechanical repairs, tyres, A petition against the parking bodywork, clutches, exhausts N2 9PN charge increases can be found at www.gopetition.com/petition/ MOTs by appointment 020 8883 0033 41889.html. 109 Fortis Green East Finchley London N2 9HR Newstead: wait and see Tel: 020 8883 9707 / 0023 Fax: 020 8482 9179 As we reported last month, [email protected] an announcement is anticipated resulting from the council’s Estate Agents and Valuers - Established 1767 consultation with users of the borough’s 21 children’s centres. Towards the end of last year, shocked local parents and carers set up an action group when they learned that Newstead Children’s Centre in Fallow’s Close was under threat from budget cuts ……………………..The Right Choice (www.savenewstead.com) Estate Agents – Valuers - Residential Sales – Lettings –Management – Cyprus Properties Since then two proposals have 40 High Road East Finchley London N2 9PJ Tel: 020 8883 9090 Fax: 020 8883 8580 been put forward. One is to keep Email: [email protected] Website: www.primelocations.co.uk 13 of the centres open; the other Call us for a Free Valuation. Family Business you can Trust. is to retain nine centres with four satellites. Both proposals would • Visit your community newspaper on-line at www.the-archer.co.uk • 2 FEBRUARY 2011 THE ARCHER - www.the-archer.co.uk THE ARCHER USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS PO BOX 3699 Councils Hospitals Help the Aged 0808 800 6565 LONDON N2 8JA Barnet Council: Barnet General 0845 111 4000 Crime Admin/Town Hall 020 8359 2000 Coppetts Wood 020 8883 9792 Emergency 999 The Green Man Community WWW THE ARCHER CO UK . - . . Council Tax 020 8359 2608 Finchley Memorial 020 8349 7500 Barnet Police 020 8200 1212 Centre, Strawberry Vale, e-mail: THE-ARCHER Recycling & refuse 020 8359 4600 Oak Lane Clinic 020 8349 7000 Mus. Hill Police Stn. 020 8345 2148 London N2 9BA Primary Care Trust 020 8201 4700 020 7794 0500 @LINEONE.NET Royal Free CrimeStoppers 0800 555111 Tel/Fax: 020 8444 6265 Bene ts Agency 020 8258 6500 St Luke s 020 8219 1800 Victim Support 0845 303 0900 Voicemail(messagesonly) Employment Service 020 8258 3900 Whittington 020 7272 3070 East Finchley Safer Neighbourhood We have moved! 08445796949 Haringey Council 020 8489 0000 Health Advice Team 020 7161 9014 Please contact us on on the thenentermailbox Leisure AIDSline 020 8363 2141 Help & Advice above number for details of number75390 Alexandra Palace 020 8365 2121 Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 7697555 Childline 0800 1111 our services. forAdvertising/Finance East Finchley Library 020 8359 3815 Barnet MENCAP 020 8203 6688 Disability Info Service 020 8446 6935 Muswell Hill Odeon 0870 505 0007 ormailboxnumber63450 Cancer Support 020 8202 2211 E.F. Advice Service 020 8444 6265 Phoenix Cinema 020 8444 6789 Gingerbread 020 8445 4227 Community Services forEditorial/Enquiries. Carers Line 0808 808 7777 Warner Cinema 020 8446 9933 Drinkline 0800 917 8282 National Debt Line 0808 808 4000 v Credit Union, Green Man Com- Transport Drugs Helpline 0800 776600 NSPCC 0800 800500 munity Centre 020 8883 4916 v Careers advice, Green Man, Com- PUBLISHEDBY Nat. Rail Enquiries 0845 7484950 MIND 020 8343 5700 Rape & Sexual Abuse 020 8683 3300 munity Centre 020 8883 4916 City Airport 020 7646 0088 NHS Direct 0845 4647 Relate 020 8447 8101 East Finchley v Toy library, Muswell Hill 020 London Transport 020 7222 1234 RSPCA Inspector 0300 1234 999 8444 0244/ 8489 8774, www. Newspapers National Express 08705 808080 OAPs Advice Samaritans 08457 909090 Barnet Age Concern 020 8346 3511 muswellhilltoylibrary.com Heathrow Airport 0870 000 0123 Refuge Crisis Line 0870 599 5443 Contact (N2) 020 8444 1162 CHAIR Kevin Finn Planning Applications Don’t advertise Colwyn House, 22 The Bishops COPYEDITOR Barnet Council 127 Abbots Gardens, N2 Avenue, N2 John Lawrence Part single, part two-storey side Part single, part two-storey rear your gadgets extension. extension following demolition of existing rear conservatory. Extension Police are reminding people to keep their valuables safe EDITORIALTEAM 3 Chalton Drive, N2 Creation of basement level including to loft space including alterations to when out and about to avoid becoming the victim of street Diana Cormack two associated light wells at side of existing dormers (two front and one robberies. After Christmas many people have expensive Daphne Chamberlain dwelling and one light well to rear. rear) and associated addition of one new phones and media players, or jewellery, and criminals Relocation of door at side elevation. rear dormer, one side dormer and two see these items as easy cash. Associated minor internal alterations. roof lights. Alterations to front eleva- When you are out, where pos- the public not to use their phones SUBEDITORS 101 East End Road, N2 tion including alterations to fenestra- sible try to keep your valuables or media players in public, we are Ann Bronkhorst Conversion of existing dwelling tion, new portico and replacement of hidden. Many robberies happen just advising them to be vigilant Jeff Robson into one two-bedroom and one garage door. Alterations to side and when people check their phones about where and when they use rear elevations. New roof and roof just after leaving a transport hub, them.” Pam Kent three-bedroom flats with associ- ated alterations. Replacement of lights to existing single storey side or when they are distracted as they For more information existing windows to uPVC win- garage. Internal alterations. go about their regular business. and crime prevention advice PRODUCTIONEDITOR dows. Installation of new timber Haringey Council Young people can also be targeted visit www.met.police.uk/ Alison Roberts gate to existing front wall. 28 Beech Drive, N2 by other young people. crimeprevention or, for young 83 High Road, N2 Erection of single-storey rear MPS Commander Simon people aged 11-16, visit Mansard roof extension. extension, erection of dormer Pountain said: “We are not asking www.safe.met.police.uk. PICTUREEDITOR 2 Oakview Gardens, N2 extension, enclosure of porch and Mike Rubens Single-storey side extension. new entrance canopy. Voice for Barnet in
FINANCE& Festival gears up for 2011 By Roger Chapman youth parliament ADVERTISING Even in the depths of winter work continues for the East Young people in Barnet will soon have a voice at a national John Dearing Finchley Festival on 19 June. The Cherry Tree Wood level as nominations open for the borough’s irst ever event, which is entirely run by local people on a voluntary representatives to the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP). DISTRIBUTION basis, has been going for over 30 years and it takes some The UKYP was established in 2000 and is run by young Toni Morgan six months to plan. people for young people, giving them the opportunity to Already entertainment acts and equipment are being booked. We share their opinions on issues ranging from the cost of Margi McAlister are contacting stallholders and soon advertisers will be approached university education to job opportunities and war. Its Pam Kent for the programme which goes through each door in East Finchley. views and recommendations are listened to by local and There’s a whole load of work going on and a whole load more to national government and providers of services. do. If you’d like to help out - and we will ind something for you PRINTEDBY Barnet’s 11-18 year olds to do no matter how little time you have to offer - then e-mail Sharman & Co Ltd will be able to vote for two Royal wedding [email protected]. Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) who will represent Thank you to The Bald street parties them at national events such Is anyone planning to throw Faced Stag for providing as the UKYP’s Annual Sit- us with a meeting place. ting. They will also vote for a street party in celebration two Deputy MYPs. The elec- of the Royal wedding on 29 THE ARCHER team wishes tion process will be promoted April? Let us know if you to thank all the generous in Barnet secondary schools and are and we’ll give it some people who give up their students will be encouraged to coverage. Our contact spare time, in all weather, vote online in February. details are on page 2. to deliver the paper for us. Your contributions If you have a story for us, please contact us at the above address. Comments to THE ARCHER may be published unless clearly marked ‘Not for publication’ within the text. Copy deadlines March: 11 February April: 11 March May: 8 April 3 THE ARCHER - www.the-archer.co.uk FEBRUARY 2011 Public meeting for Stanley Field By Rob Robertson Readers will know from recent editions of THE ARCHER that the Stanley Road Playing Field is effectively up for sale. Barnet Council’s Cabinet Resources Committee, at its meeting on 30 November, declared the site “surplus to its requirements” and agreed that “the disposal of the freehold interest be advertised on the open market to seek details of proposed schemes and initial bids”. It is very important that The meeting will take place local residents are kept aware from 7.30pm to 9pm on Thurs- of developments and have day 17 February. The school is the opportunity to voice their situated in Eagans Close, East opinions on what should now be Finchley, close to Kitchener done with this valuable asset. Road and Market Place. All The Finchley Community local residents with an interest Development Trust (FCDT) in the playing ield are welcome is, therefore, very grateful to to attend. Tim Bowden, headteacher at Meanwhile, as ever, please Holy Trinity CE school, and feel free to contact me at the Protest over artsdepot cuts plan to the school governors, for FCDT with your comments and Protesters held a vigil outside Barnet Council ofices in the North London Business letting us use the school hall opinions (tel: 020 8883 4916; Park, Oakleigh Road South, on Monday 10 January. They were protesting against for a public meeting on the e-mail: rob-robertson@btconn Barnet’s proposed cut of all core funding to artsdepot at North Finchley. future of the site.. ect.com). Vikki Mizon, artsdepot this opportunity to thank eve- our lobbying campaign marketing and PR officer, told rybody who came along and of events, which will be THE ARCHER: “Monday’s flash showed their support. advertised on our website, Library announcement mob was a creative response “LBB’s decision to close www.artsdepot.co.uk. Check to the proposed cuts, and we the business park showed the website for details, and in March were really pleased with how the impact we can have. help keep arts in the frame By Daphne Chamberlain it went. We would like to take We will be continuing with in Barnet.” The results of Barnet Council’s consultation on the future of our libraries will probably be announced at a Council Opposition to houses plan meeting on 29 March. In the meantime, “Keep visiting More than 350 signatures were gathered on a petition objecting to plans to build three and using the library as much as possible” is the message houses on open land in Lauradale Road, north of Fortis Green allotments. Developers from East Finchley Library Users Group. want to construct three two-storey houses, one of them with two bedrooms and the As we reported in last not, however, rule out other cuts others with four bedrooms. month’s ARCHER, the most or changes during the year. Residents who are object- by locals, including many have to galvanise local opposi- recently published statistics Community resource ing say the development would families. tion all over again. We suspect for visiting and borrowing (for Cllr Alison Moore described tower over the allotments and The plan is being put for- this will be a long road.” the year ending last September) East Finchley library as “an abso- destroy far-reaching views ward by Cilusom Holdings, an The original application can showed that East Finchley per- lutely vital community resource across to Highgate Woods for offshore development company be viewed on the planning sec- formed extremely well in both that will become more, not less, people in the area. based in Cyprus. Haringey tion of www.haringey.gov.uk. categories. EFLUG’s Polly important at a time of service They claim the building Council has rejected the appli- Type in reference number Napper says: “Even popping cuts and potential hardship. It’s plans are out of keeping with cation in its current form but HGY/2010/1887. The ‘Keep in without actually borrow- crucial,” she added, “that users Haringey Council’s criteria on the objectors expect it will be Fortis Green’ e-petition is at ing a book will register on our and supporters have their say development for Signiicant amended and resubmitted. www.ipetitions.com/petition/ branch ‘visitor numbers’ sta- about the future of Barnet’s Local Open Land. There are Residents’ spokesperson keepfortisgreen/ tistics, which are recorded by libraries and ight to protect the also worries about vehicle Livy Clover said: “We are the wooden frames you walk services they value.” access via a narrow pedestrian waiting for the next round of between in the entrance”. Although the public survey alleyway that is heavily used plans to come out, when we’ll As the 2011/2012 budget on library use ended in Decem- goes through on 1 March, it ber, an extended consultation is possible that cuts proposed period was part of the original at the Council meeting on 29 programme set out in Barnet’s
March, though bound to be “Strategic Library Review” huge, may not be implemented document last September. until next year. Although sig- This is designed to avoid niicant changes to the librar- decisions being challenged in ies are not relected within this court on the grounds of lack of coming year’s budget that does consultation.
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When we asked in our last issue whether your road had been gritted in the snow, we got plenty of responses, all saying no. Here we print a small selection of your people messages and weigh them against what Barnet Council says it can and can’t do on gritting roads. power “Brim Hill was not gritted What the council says Barnet Council is hoping once. This made driving very Barnet Council says it is dificult and in places impossi- responsible for 680km of roads that a new website will Friends say farewell to Sue ble because of the three short but and therefore has to use a prior- help residents to find By Barbara Mullins steep slopes along the length of ity system to spread its limited enough volunteers to Residents and friends at Homeield Gardens Sheltered the road. It was also dificult to gritting resources and keep the keep streets free from Housing Accommodation held a farewell buffet lunch get up from the A1 to Brim Hill main trafic arteries moving. snow or ice or take on along with live entertainment for popular member of because most of the side roads Priority 1 are main com- other tasks like painting also remained ungritted.” Peter staff Sue Cox. muter routes and bus routes. over grafiti. Blackstaffe Priority 2 are roads in the Barnet Pledgebank lets Sue left in December two ladies highly both on and “We live on Southern Road at vicinity of shopping centres, people make an online after seven and a half years off duty. the corner of Springcroft Road so railway stations, hospitals, pledge to which neighbours as warden/sheltered housing Sue has plans for an active are in Haringey. This road was not public buildings and schools, or other residents can commit oficer. She is pictured above future. Residents and friends gritted, despite the fact that there along with cul-de-sacs with to help. They can print off with Liz Caldwell, another wish her well in her forthcom- are two doctors’ surgeries in the steep gradients. Priority 3 are lyers to publicise the pledge popular sheltered housing ing retirement and she will be road, which means numbers of all remaining routes. and encourage others to get oficer. Residents value these missed by all. vulnerable users would be on the The council says it takes its involved. roads. Nor was Fortis Green grit- winter maintenance activities The council says this facil- East Finchley Baptist Church ted. Both roads, not to mention very seriously, but can only be ity is ideal for projects such as other roads, were like ice rinks, reasonably expected to react mobilising a group of neigh- Just off the High Road in Creighton Avenue N2 with accompanying spills!” Ros within its available resources. bours to paint over grafiti, Goldfarb Its policy is as follows: “In setting up computer classes in Sunday Mornings at 10.30 am “I live in Sedgemere Avenue, times of snow, once all Prior- their area or helping to keep off East End Road. Our road and For more information ity 1 routes have been treated pavements in their street free pavements and the ones in East and found to be safe and run- from snow and ice. please contact the Church Office End Road were more like a skate ning, treatment of the Priority Leader approves “neat” Tel: 8883 1544 (Minister: Simon Dyke) rink. That also includes Park 2 routes commences, subject Hall Road where there is a GP to having suficient resources. scheme Visitors always welcome surgery.”Simon Astrop Priority 3 roads are only dealt Council leader Lynne “I live in Oak Lane and was with in times of heavy snow Hillan said: “I think there appalled by the state of my lane and then only when priorities is a real willingness among YOUR TIME IS PRECIOUS! and surrounding area. We have a 1 and 2 have been completed. residents to get out there and organise all sorts of projects West End quality, competitive children’s clinic with pregnant Under Priority 3, one footway prices, close to home...... women, young mothers with in each side road is also treated for the good of the community. babies, toddlers and disabled in times of heavy snow.” That desire has always been A Cut and finish with children struggling to get there. On the question of whether there but it’s not always easy to Jo Sutherland from £45 turn a good idea into reality. all inclusive. We also have Age Concern’s Ann footways are gritted, only one Owens Centre for vulnerable eld- in our area is marked out for “Perhaps you’re prepared erly and disabled people. What special attention. The High to step up with a group of (West End salons from £85* neighbours and paint a com- +Travel+parking+hassle) a state. I pay my service charges Road leading up from the tube and my council tax without fail station to East End Road will munity centre near you, or to help clear snow and ice from a 25% introductory each month and enough warning be pre-treated before the morn- offer on all services** was given regarding the weather ing rush hour if snow or ice is pavements during spells in December so why weren’t they expected. of bad weather like we’ve prepared?” Aruna Bhatt experienced recently. “Barnet Pledgebank is a EXPERIENCE | TECHNOLOGY | PASSION really neat way of making it * Examples on request 119 East End Road, London N2. **conditions apply 020 8444 9440 as easy as possible for people Is it safe to clear to get their projects off the ground.” pavements yourself? Saving public money By Daphne Chamberlain The new website comes at Some people are still hesitant about clearing snow and a time when Barnet Council is looking to promote the idea ice from the pavements outside their homes. The fear of the “Big Society” and also persists that they could be sued if someone had an acci- to cut back on non-essential dent there. The January newsletter of the Muswell Hill services in a bid to save public and Fortis Green Association carried this advice from money. its “legal eagle” Peter Thompson. Pledgebank has been devel- “Most of the law regarding ans to risk that was not there oped in conjunction with myS- liability for personal injuries before. ociety, a not-for-proit organi- requires proof of fault and, “Otherwise I adopt the sation responsible for public most usually, negligence. general line that Government involvement websites such as There is nothing wrong with agencies are putting out: the Number 10 petition site and clearing snow off a footpath: that wherever snow-clearing FixMyStreet which is already it is a decent, neighbourly would beneit the public the in use by Barnet residents. thing to do. A pedestrian citizen should not withhold The website can be found at who slipped on the cleared his (or her) shovel for fear of pledgebank.barnet.gov.uk. footway would not normally being sued.” Will you be making a have a case. Meanwhile, John Hajdu, pledge and what do you think “But there might be liabil- MHFGA chairman, has been of the Pledgebank website? ity if the householder chose to meeting with Haringey’s con- Let us know by writing to clear the snow by pouring hot tract manager for gritting roads. [email protected] or water on it, thereby turning the Haringey readers who ind that The Archer, PO Box 3699, cleared path into an icy slide. their nearby grit bins are not London N2 8JA. This would be a negligent, not being reilled should contact to say silly way of clearing the John on 020 8883 8114 or Turn to page 11 to read Joyce snow and exposing pedestri- [email protected]. Arram’s letter on gritting 5 THE ARCHER - www.the-archer.co.uk FEBRUARY 2011 New home Local ilm-makers for advice scoop awards at service By David Miller, secretary, East Finchley Monaco festival Advice Service By Sheila Armstrong After nearly 30 years work- Artists and ilm-makers Denise Wyllie and Clare O Hagan ing from 42 Church Lane, won two awards at Monaco’s 2010 Angel Film Festival East Finchley Advice Serv- for their ilm First Darkness. The Angel Film Festival ice has now relocated to the promotes non-violent ilms. Green Man Community In the Short Film category Encouragement from Centre in Strawberry Vale. they won Best Art Film and David Jason Barnet Council’s lease on Best Original Music. “It’s While at the ilm festival they the Church Lane building great to know that our work were delighted to meet another has expired and we have is appreciated on the inter- Barnet star, David Jason, who been forced to ind other national film festival scene,” was making his directorial debut premises. the East Finchley duo told with his short ilm All The Way THE ARCHER. The film will Although records for the Up. The TV actor, who started now be shown on the festival early period are incomplete, acting with the local Incognito circuit for the next year. we reckon we have probably Theatre group in the 1950s, First Darkness is a had over 50,000 client visits was also in Monaco to receive jewel of a film. It charts and interviews at Church Lane, a lifetime achievement award the progress of someone’s tackling welfare beneits, debt, but he made time to talk with grief through the seasons, housing and other problems. and encourage Clare and Denise. starting in winter with its (See our picture on page 1.) Opening times to change sombre landscape and feel- Veterans of short films, The move represents new ings. Gradually a lifting of Denise and Clare’s work has challenges to the staff and vol- the spirits comes as the sea- been screened at ilm festivals Anum in her swimming kit representing Pakistan. unteers who work for EFAS. sons move through spring to internationally, (check them One likely change is that we summer. out on www.youtube.com/ Teenage swimmer will have to restrict the opening Denise and Clare use a wyllieohagan). Both are well- times for client visits, largely unique combination of film known painters and have worked due to the signiicant reduction and painted images, based on commissions and residencies competes in Dubai in funding for the centre from on Denise’s paintings of here and abroad. Barnet Copthall Swimming Club has another interna- Barnet and other sources. Dollis Brook and Cherry Find out more at tional swimmer. Thirteen-year-old Anum Bandey, who Shortage of funds is affect- Tree Wood. The sympa- www.wyllieohagan.com, where ing many local charities, but we lives in the High Road, was selected to represent Pakistan thetic musical score by you can also see an interview in the World Short Course Championships in Dubai. are determined to continue pro- Simon Wilkinson heightens with David Jason about his win- viding a quality service from our British-born Anum, a pupil commented: “It is every sports the mood of this unusual and ning ilm, and view RivieraLife at Fortismere School, whose person’s dream to represent new ofice, which is still fairly innovative film. TV’s rundown on the festival. close to Church Lane and also father is a dual national, their country. Anum, at just 13, near a fair number of our exist- competed in eight events over has already achieved that goal. ing clients. We will continue to Kinks make a the ive-day championship in This opportunity to compete on look for new sources of fund- December: 50m, 100m and the international stage can only ing to ensure our survival in 200m breast stroke; 200m and aid her continued development the future. 400m freestyle, and 100m, into an even more accomplished comeback to The 200m and 400m individual swimmer.” Calling for volunteers medley. Among her times were Although we have a loyal 38:13 seconds for the 50m and 1 Eva Polish Deli and dedicated team of advisers, Clissold min 13.65 seconds for the 100m we would welcome additional By Angela Anderson individual medley. volunteers to advise on welfare Kinks songwriter Ray Davies and drummer Mick Avory Head coach Rhys Gormley Specialist and debt issues in particular, for made a return trip to The Clissold Arms in Fortis Green in in natural sausage which training would be pro- December to celebrate the naming of the Kinks Room. vided. In addition, we operate regular legal sessions run by The pub has long been a provided by Simeon Perlin. 36 High Rd qualiied solicitors and, again, magnet for loyal Kinks fans A life in music East Finchley extra volunteers would be very making the pilgrimage to In the programme Ray useful. north London to see the the talked about his school London N2 9PJ If any readers are interested irst venue the group played. days, forming the group with in the possibility of working But in recent years much of brother Dave and early gigs Tel: 020 8365 3113 with us, or in receiving infor- the memorabilia of the stars in and around their home in mation about our work, please has disappeared from view. Muswell Hill before reaching contact Ruby Joseph (telephone The new room puts that international stardom with hit number 020 8444 6265) or right. On display is a signed singles You Really Got Me, Cree Godfrey Wood email [email protected] copy of the Kinks’ irst single, Waterloo Sunset and Lola which was a cover of Little along with many other songs Solicitors A Local Handyman Richard’s Long Tall Sally; a now regarded as classics. Commissioners for Oaths available for general household guitar; a wall of photographs; Ray was interviewed at his Hours: 9.30am to 5.30pm. & garden maintenance. and a small brass plaque that school, now known as Fortis- email:[email protected] No Job Too Small reads: “Site of 1957 perform- mere, and there were photos of 28 High Road, London N2 9PJ Free Estimates ing debut of Ray and Dave him and Dave with their siblings Call: Davies, founding members of Tel: 020 8883 9414 / 9496 0989 0789 010 3831 as children. They grew up with a www.creegodfreyandwood.co.uk or: 020 8350 2188 the Kinks.” variety of music being played in TV documentary the house, that of their parents’ Greene Driving School The opening evening linked generation as well as the jazz East Finchley N2 to the BBC1 documentary and early rock and roll enjoyed brera gardens From £17.50 x 2 Hr lessons Imaginary Man, in which Alan by their older sisters. Yentob interviewed Ray Davies In 1990, their irst year of Safe driving for life about his career and visited vari- eligibility, the original four garden design maintenance Low Co2 footprint 114 ous north London spots associ- members of The Kinks were hard landscaping interior & office plant displays Eco & Low Maint Tuition ated with The Kinks, including inducted into the Rock & Roll Pass Plus 4 cheaper the Clissold Arms. Hall of Fame as well as the UK soft landscaping East Finchley based Ray and Mick watched the Music Hall of Fame in Novem- Insurance. Greenedriving.co.uk programme in the pub along- ber 2005. It was good to see Mob. 07939 557 934 Tel. 020 8365 3615 Call John M.I.M.I side their fans. The music their beginnings celebrated Email: [email protected] 0773 851 4406 (Kinks’ songs, naturally) was where it all started. 6 FEBRUARY 2011 THE ARCHER - www.the-archer.co.uk Domestic violence From hedge funds The day I campaign to hedges tried a car By Janet Maitland Continuing our occasional series on career changes, One in four violent crimes in Barnet happens in the home, Catherine Johnson of Ashburnham Designs tells how club behind closed doors. This is the stark message of a poster she left a well-paid job in inancial IT to become a garden By Adam Justice-Mills campaign to tackle domestic violence launched at the end designer. Many drivers are realising of last year by Barnet Council and the police. After 20 years in there is a greener alterna- Domestic violence offences National Domestic Violence an increasingly “dog tive to owning their own reported to police in Barnet in Helpline on 0808 2000 247, eat dog” environment, car: opt into a car club, 2009/10 were down to 1,415, a which provides confidential with frequent trips and save loads of money drop of 10.2% on the previous support to women and children, abroad working 12 while saving the planet. 12 months. However, many including access to a place of hour days, I dreaded Car owners could save victims do not report offences safety in a refuge. Calls are free going into the ofice. more than £300 a month for fear of reprisals from the and interpreters are available for I spent hours trying by renting a new, low CO perpetrator. non-English speaking callers. to unwind at the end 2 Figures from the British For information about emission car (or van) just of each day, and was for the time they need it. Crime Survey 2008/09 show the Sanctuary Scheme, call constantly angry about StreetCar is one of sev- that six per cent of women Barnet Homeseekers on 020 anything and every- eral commercial schemes in will be a victim of domestic 8359 4797. thing. Enough was London. I’m writing about violence in their lifetime. enough when internal them because they have a car Barnet Sanctuary Scheme politics prevented me on Twyford Avenue and because provides security measures for from doing the job I’d Questions they offered me a free trial. The the homes of victims, should been employed to do. ApoemforValentine’sDayby annual joining fee includes fully the perpetrator live elsewhere, My parents are DennisEvans comprehensive insurance and and the council provides a enthusiastic gardeners national recovery, servicing and range of advice and advocacy Willyouwalkwithme, and as a child I grew my own lifestyles, needs and dreams. regular cleaning, as well as a services. apple tree from a pip. Later, as A design doesn’t have to start talkwithme? smart card that opens the car. Chief Superintendent Neil a lat-dweller I was roped in to from scratch, it doesn’t have to Willyouplantwithme, It covers the congestion charge Basu, head of Barnet Borough help with my church garden, and incorporate the whole garden, but not parking ines. City Car is police, said that the police are chantwithme? some years ago I did a short taster and it doesn’t have to be done similar. WhipCar uses people’s committed to supporting the Willyouworkwithme, course in garden design at the all at once. A designer simply own cars, which they hire out victims of domestic violence. English Gardening School. So, helps their client to understand shirkwithme? to “steady drivers”. As well as having a dedicated in August 2009 I left the City and what they are trying to create Willyouplaywithme, domestic violence team, the spent a year studying for a pro- and why, eliminating costly Getting StreetCar wise police work closely with the liewithme? fessional diploma at the Pickard impulse buys along the way. I got my ID and password Domestic Violence Support Willyouclimbwithme, School of Garden Design. No regrets emailed to me and checked online for cars nearby. I booked Service, an independent charity rhymewithme? Reactions from friends and Was I brave? Yes and no. the BMW from Pages Lane for that helps high-risk victims. family ranged from encourag- Ultimately the decision was Willyou… an hour, getting an immediate Getting help ing, congratulatory, even envi- easy, but at times my self-belief willyoubemyValentine? text conirmation. The hire rate The posters encourage ous, to concern from those who wavered, particularly when includes free fuel up to a rea- victims of domestic abuse, or thought me totally mad. Sur- mastering technical drawing, FirstpublishedinBubblesfor sonable mileage allowance (30 anyone who knows of some- prising how many thought me and when my brain seemed PeacebyCelebrationPress2005 miles for up to a day, rising to one suffering, to contact the brave. I didn’t feel it! incapable of absorbing yet more 200 miles per day). After that, information. The journey has Challenging and creative fuel is 23p per mile. I’ve now set up my own been a huge learning curve, but Holy Trinity Church When I arrived at the bay, practice in East Finchley, using do I regret it? Absolutely not. the car wasn’t there! I rang Church Lane, East Finchley new skills and those acquired in Friends now remark on how customer services who con- Church of England my former career as a business much more relaxed I am, and tacted the driver immediately, analyst and project manager. I I’m excited about the future. conirming a 15-minute delay. We're a warm and friendly congregation love the creative aspect, and the Catherine can be contacted I was entitled to £40 credit (to who look forward to welcoming you challenge of producing designs on 020 8444 3484 or at catheri be paid by the late driver), but to complement my client’s [email protected] Parish Communion at 10.00 am waived it as my hire was free. Children's Sunday Club Meet over coffee after church The car arrived and the Michael Stanway is happy to answer any enquiries: driver turned out to be a new Tel: 020 8346 8591 neighbour. Kevin works in the city so uses StreetCar just for short, local journeys. He locked the car with his smart card and ���������� I promptly re-opened it with mine. ������ There was a guide to the car in the glove compartment ������� and I’d checked the car for damage. I did some shopping, �������� extended my booking by text ��������� with “Extend 0.5” for another half hour, returned to the bay in ��� time, then walked home. Verdict ���������� It was quite like any hire car, but closer to home and I really liked not having to worry about �������������������������������������������� A friendly welcome awaits you the car once I’d left it in the bay. Would I buy another car if mine EAST FINCHLEY METHODIST CHURCH was written off? I’d certainly 197 High Road, London N2 (opp. Creighton Ave.) consider using a car club. It tel: 0208 346 1700 www.eastfinchleymethodist.org.uk makes sense. StreetCar can be contacted through www.streetcar.co.uk. Sunday service at 10.30 a.m. Here are links to other car clubs With Creche and Junior Church operating in London: www.citycarclub.co.uk, ������������������������������������ ww.zipcar.com, ������������������ Worship Music Social events Toddler Group Wheelchair friendly www.connectbyhertz.com; e-mail: [email protected] Room hire tel:020 8444 9887 www.quadrigacars.com; and ������������������������������������������������������� www.carplus.org.uk 7 THE ARCHER - www.the-archer.co.uk FEBRUARY 2011 How do you want the Winter wood work The sun shone down on the Friends of Cherry Tree Wood when they gathered in the wood on 12 December for another volunteering day. About two-dozen volunteers, Old Barn to be used? including young children and grandparents, spent the day building deadwood fencing, We reported in our last issue that the future of the Old picking litter, cutting back hazel and hornbeam trees to encourage new growth, and Barn Centre in Tarling Road is in the balance. Now there planting over 100 new tree saplings. is a chance for you to put your views on how you would like the centre to be used. The Old Barn Action Group a meeting to discuss the centre Gardening would like to hear from anyone on 8 January. Five members interested in bringing the build- of the action group attended ing back into local control for but no one else. They claimed for the the beneit of local people. The local residents had not received group is holding meetings at the any leaflets announcing the Green Man Community Centre, meeting. brain Strawberry Vale, on 10 and 24 William Hudson, of the There is a proposal to February at 10am for people to action group, said Rev Muhoro develop a regular session give their ideas. informed them that he was at the Meadow Orchard The centre was previously negotiating with a company project in Park Road, N8, a hub for youth groups, includ- from east London to provide a for people interested in ing the popular Monday Club range of services. gardening, wildlife and but they moved out after the The action group hopes to conservation who also have management of the centre was hold an open day on Sunday 13 dementia. taken on by the Old Barn Youth March somewhere near the Old The project would be for and Community Association Barn for all young people and people with dementia who live (OBYCA), whose director is local residents who want to bring in Barnet, Enield or Haringey. Reverend Geoffrey Muhoro. the building back to life. In the It could be of particular value meantime, the ideas meetings Lack of publicity in cases of young onset demen- will be held at the Green Man Rev Muhoro was the sole tia, for which there is very little Centre on the dates above. Friends building fences. Photo courtesy Friends of Cherry Tree Wood representative of OBYCA at support. The trees were donated additional amenity in the To express interest or for by the Woodland Trust and wood in the years to come. further information, please Working enthusiastically to dig Nursery open include elder, crab apple, contact Lynn Molloy, Haringey through the frozen soil, or to hazel, blackthorn and dog Memory Assessment and Treat- rose. All have edible fruits hammer in fence posts, the ment Project Group, Victoria morning and flowers that can be volunteers certainly didn’t Day Unit, St Ann’s Hospital. Holy Trinity Nursery is holding an open morning on used in a variety of ways feel the cold. Charles Parkes, N15 3TH. Tel: 020 8442 6727 or Wednesday 28 March for all parents and carers, together (for example, crab apple who once again planned 6109. Email lynn.molloy@beh- with children. jelly, elderflower cordial, the day and led the team, mht.nhs.uk. The nursery offers 52 and friendly. When OfSTED rosehip jam and sloe gin), made sure even the novices places in total, 26 places in visited in October 2009, providing a very useful could contribute, teaching the morning session (8.50am to they noted that ‘activities are how to coppice a tree THE ARCHER needs 11.50am) and 26 places in the interesting and exciting and the or weave the felled branches volunteer distributors for: afternoon session (12.30pm to children enjoy all they do’. into deadwood fencing that • The Grange 3.30pm). Nursery children can More details on admissions Shoppers will protect the areas of new saplings until they are fully Distribution takes place once a extend their day using break- criteria are included in the month. A typical round takes fast and after school clubs school prospectus at www.ho established. The day was 30-45 mins to deliver. run by the school in the main lytrinityceschool.org.uk. dig deep rounded off with warm mince Please contact 020 8883 0433 or building. Applications for admission By Sippy Azizollah pies in the orchard. [email protected] for details Approval to nursery for children born On Christmas Eve I had Holy Trinity says that last between 1 September 2008 the great pleasure of hold- year’s open morning received and 31 August 2009 close on ing a fundraiser in aid of great feedback from visitors 6 May 2011. Forms are avail- the North London Hospice who thought the nursery able at the open morning and at Budgens. I had a table set was well run, well organised from the website above. with chocolates, donated by Elaine Merrin, and mince pies, and hot mugs of tea Coronation fun and to keep me going. It was a fantastic day with all of you games helping me to raise money By Daphne Chamberlain for this very worthy cause. 1937 was Coronation year for George V1, whose struggle The hospice is for the bor- against stammering is the story of the Oscar-tipped ilm oughs of Barnet, Enield and The King’s Speech. Haringey. Their fundraising manager Judy Guy told me On 13 May that year, would love to know. ALMAR BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Finchley Schools held a Coro- The Society is also looking that the running costs for this year will be £6 million, and that Accountancy | Tax Consultancy | IT Solutions nation Sports Day. The Finchley for anyone who has memories www.AlmarBSL.co.uk Society has the programme, with of “The Sleeping Shepherd”, they depend on people’s kind- competitors listed by school. Did a pageant in the grounds of ness and voluntary donations to Services provided: keep providing valuable respite �� Book-keeping you, or anyone you know, take Avenue House on 13 and 15 May �� Management Accounting part? If so, The Finchley Society 1937. An advertisement of the for life-limited patients and their �� Financial Accounting and Annual Accounts Preparation time describes it as “a charming families. �� VAT & Tax Administration and Consultancy �� Personal & Business Financial Health Checks pastoral of 1850 in an old world She was thrilled at seeing setting - dancing and singing, the amount we’d raised when Tailored packaged services offered for: I presented her with a cheque �� Sole Traders �� Partnerships laughter and gaiety”. �� Self-Employed �� Contractors If you can help ill in details for £270. To all of you in East �� Private Limited Companies Finchley who gave their time, for either of these events, please For a FREE initial consultation, please contact us contact localhistory@inchleys money and smiles on Christ- by phone on 07894 473309 or email: [email protected] ociety.org.uk or tell us at THE mas Eve, thank you so much! I ARCHER, and we will pass it on. couldn’t have done this without you. YES, YOU CAN have it all… TELEPHONE FAULTS REPAIRED Successful business Mum is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home without compromising family 50% CHEAPER THAN BT * the POST OFFICE * TALK TALK etc commitments or current career. HOME * OFFICE * FACTORY If you have a supervisory, management, sales, marketing, LINES * EXTENSIONS * EQUIPMENT - TESTED & REPAIRED recruitment or self-employment background, or you wish to Call RON COLLINS 0208 883 9325 * 07748 278728 develop an extraordinary lifestyle… email: [email protected] Call NICOLA BALDWIN on 07920 480723 8 FEBRUARY 2011 THE ARCHER - www.the-archer.co.uk Out and about with a pram YOUNG ARCHER By Alisha Johnston Last May I found myself joining the ranks of First Time Mums. Having commuted from East Finchley for many years, I knew little about N2 on weekdays from 9 to 5. Its streets become the domain of new mums going to and from play groups, meeting for coffee or just trying to get the baby to sleep. In those early months • Highgate Wood, Muswell • Heath Extension, Hamp- I needed to get out of the Hill (BC/PG/café). stead Garden Suburb. house to save my sanity. Entry off Muswell Hill Road, Entry off Wildwood Road or So I found myself joining Lancaster Road, or Archway Hampstead Way, NW11. the pram-pushing brigade, Road. Walk through Cherry • Golders Hill Park, tramping the local streets, Tree Wood or take bus 143 Golders Green (BC/PG/café/ walking round the solace of towards Archway Station or small zoo). Cherry Tree Wood and sip- 263 towards Nags Head, or Take bus H2 or 102 to Golders ping tea at the Lazy Sally 234 towards Highgate Wood Green tube station, then it’s Kiosk. / Sussex Gardens and alight at a ive-minute walk up North As time went by, I could Highgate Tube. End Road turning right into clock up more miles and was • Queens Wood, Muswell West Heath Avenue. always looking for a change Hill, (café), www.fqw.org.uk. Do you have your own of scene. So here’s my list Entry off Muswell Hill Road. favourite pram-pushing des- of local spots if you want You can also walk through tination? Write to us at the- to walk somewhere differ- Highgate Wood to get there. [email protected] or The ent (whether or not you are • Alexandra Palace Park, Archer, PO Box 3699, London pushing a pram). Muswell Hill (PG/café) N2 8JA. Key: BC (known to have www.alexandrapalace.org.uk. baby changing facilities), PG Take bus 102 towards Edmon- (playground). Please note ton Green Bus Station or Mummy kiosks and cafes may be closed 234 towards Barnet/Spires in winter. Shopping Centre and alight Zumba • Cherry Tree Wood, East at Muswell Hill. Walk down New classes for Zumba, Finchley (BC/PG/kiosk) Dukes Avenue and entry is on www.cherrytreewood.co.uk the right. Also free parking at a Latin-American dance- Entry opposite East Finchley Alexandra Palace Park. based itness class, have tube station. • Lyttleton Playing Fields, started in East Finchley aimed speciically at mums • Coldfall Wood, East parallel to the A1 (PG) Santa enjoyed his refurbished grotto at the Martin School fair. Finchley This is part of the Capital Ring, with babies. www.coldfallwoods.co.uk. www.walklondon.org.uk. Mums can bring their prams and leave them at the side of the Entry off Creighton Avenue, • Waterlow Park, Highgate East Finchley. room while they enjoy exercise VIP guest at (PG/ cafe open Tue-Sun) classes with West End dancer • Long Lane Pasture, www.waterlowpark.org.uk. AJ O’Neill. There are also Finchley Entry off Highgate High Street baby-changing facilities. Entry off Long Lane opposite or Swains Lane. Take bus 143 The classes take place on school fair the ire station. towards Archway Station and Wednesdays at 3pm at Holy By Rachel Ellis • Avenue House, Finchley alight at Highgate Village. Trinity Church, Church Lane, Hundreds of parents, pupils and local residents visited (BC/PG/ kiosk closed until • Big Wood, Hampstead and cost £7 a class, with reduced the Martin school’s Christmas Fair on Saturday 11 spring) Garden Suburb. rates for block bookings. For December, giving the event a real buzz. A particular hit www.avenuehouse.org.uk. Entry off Oakwood Road, more details, contact AJ on was Santa’s splendid new grotto which had been given Entry off East End Road. NW11. 07738 968408. a major revamp for the fair. For the irst time, candy all gave wonderful perform- loss was on sale, which proved ances, and there were some The Sale very popular, and there was amazing outits in the Fancy also an indoor bouncy castle. Dress Competition. (must end 12th February 2011) The school choir, the Year 6 The event, organised by the band and the recorder group Parent Teacher Association, raised £4,400 for the school. UP TO PARENT & BABY/ It was sponsored by GLH CHILD ACTIVITIES and Prickett and Ellis, and v Co ee & Kids, Fri 9.15-11.15, received generous donations Green Man Ctr. Rachel 8343 6147. from Budgens, Hughes Design 80% OFF vDads Club: Get-togethers for dads and J G Bryson, Printer, who looking after young children in East Finchley. Adam 07957 441435. provided the programmes. v EF National Childbirth Trust con- Headteacher Helen Mor- tact Ruby Yang or Patrizia Canwell at rison said: “We all thoroughly FRAMES east [email protected] enjoyed the day. There was a v Parent & Toddler Group, Green Man Centre, Julia 8444 2276 fantastic turnout and I’m so Only condition is that vStepping Stones, interactive play grateful to the whole commu- session for under 3 s. Karen 07957 nity for supporting the event. you pay the usual low 278860. prices for lenses. All Saints’ Church, Durham Road, East Finchley TOP FRAMES Church of England LATE CLINIC Sunday masses at 8.00 a.m. and 10.00 a.m. ALL TYPES OF Weekday masses at 10.00 a.m. CONTACT LENSES FITTED (Refreshments are served after mass on Sunday and Thursday) DYSLEXIA CLINIC Prayer requests are gladly accepted. The Parish has a flourishing social life. 126 HIGH ROAD, EAST FINCHLEY, N2 9ED Contact the Vicar, Fr Christopher Hardy, on 020 8883 9315. (020) 8883-2020 All Saints’ also has a strong musical tradition and an enthusiastic choir of both adults and children. Stewart-Duncan opticians Experienced singers are always welcome. Contact Geoffrey Hanson on 020 8444 9214. http://www.stewartduncan.com http://www.allsaints-eastfinchley.org.uk 9 THE ARCHER - www.the-archer.co.uk FEBRUARY 2011 KALASHNIKOV KULTUR Get your By Ricky Savage, the voice of social irresponsibility Name game bus routes In the weird and wonderful world of austerity Britain as the country lurches towards wide-eyed madness there is one beacon of blinding light in the darkness. Yes, the Beckhams straight are breeding again. Just when we feared that they would decide By Daphne Chamberlain that three was enough they’ve announced that they are making In December 2010 we pub- another contribution to society. And, to the amazement of the lished a letter from reader watching world, Victoria smiled for the irst time since Botox Lorna Roberts, (written in was invented. November) complaining Now that we know there’s a new baby Beckham on the way we can all What is the mystery bird of prey? Photo by Luke Potter about the re-routing of the indulge in that great party game and try to work out what they are going to 143. It used to run along the call it. whole of East End Road and Let’s start with Brooklyn. He’s called after the place where he was con- Can you identify Gravel Hill into Hendon ceived and set a trend. Out there in the weird world people have taken this Lane but now turns off East idea and run in ever decreasing circles with it. What about the girls called End Road to take in Manor Paris or the boy called Finchley? Better still, there’s some poor kid out there this bird? called Leyton. Yes, a kid named after a crossroads in East London notable for By Lois Lawrence View, Squires Lane, Long Lane and Ballards Lane. two pubs, one bookies, a Polish shop and a god-bothering centre. Nice? ARCHER reader Luke Potter spotted a mysterious bird of For child two, Romeo, the Beckhams went for the back end of an Ital- prey near his home in Cedar Drive one evening in Decem- Obviously this adds to the ian car. Not the irst: there are a couple of Cortinas out there and Sienna ber. He’d seen a wide range of birds over the years but time it takes to reach Brent Miller’s got a sister called Sierra (1.6L). What next? A girl called Mazda or he wasn’t able to identify the bird he saw. It was sitting Cross. Our correspondent said that a boy called Nissan? on top of a pigeon that it had just killed and stayed there Child three didn’t do much better. They called him Cruze, probably after Transport for London told her Tom and probably because they can’t spell. Maybe it’s time to name-check feeding happily for about 10 minutes before leaving. they would consider restoring their other friends: how about Giggs for a boy or Fergie for a girl? There weren’t any rings on from their breeding grounds in the original route, but she had The only thing to say in favour of not very posh and stupid is that they’ve the bird’s legs so Luke assumed Scandinavia but Peter has not heard nothing since. avoided fruit, so far. Gwyneth has her little Apple, so maybe now is the time it was a wild bird of prey that seen them before in our neck may have come from some- of the woods. Misinformation for an Orange or Banana or Raspberry? They could go for drinks and call it THE ARCHER contacted Brandi or Bacardi and Coke. The big problem is that had they realised they where outside London. At irst glance, they are The photo is not very clear starling-like, but with crests TfL on 12 November, asking would have four kids they could have gone all Vivaldi and called them Spring, whether any considering had Summer, Autumn and Winter. Now that would have been different. but Luke is intrigued to know and yellow tail-tips. Peter saw what type of bird it was and around 50 of them clustering been done. Our enquiry was what habits might bring it this on TV aerials on roofs around acknowledged, but we heard far into the city. If anyone can his home. nothing further. On 7 Decem- ber, after a reminder from us, It’s Showtime Again help, contact THE ARCHER on He said: “They tend to turn [email protected] or 0844 up in places like the Tesco car TfL apologised for the delay 579 6949 (mailbox 63450). park where there are berries to in replying and said that the for writers feed on. We have a rowan tree 143 had always run along the By Daphne Chamberlain Waxwings outside our house so that may present route, while a 143A Fans of East Finchley Writers will know immediately Meanwhile, in other (withdrawn in 1995) had taken birdspotting news, Peter Cox have attracted them.” that anything with that title could only be the group’s Waxwings are likely to be the direct route along East End witnessed the arrival of locks Road. third published anthology. Showtime, Showtime Too, and of waxwings around his house around in our area throughout now Showtime Again are inspired names. These annual February. Keep your bird To anyone using local buses in Hertford Road. These subtly up to the early 1990s this was collections show off the writers’ very varied talents, but beautiful birds are fairly regular feeders full and look out for them. a statement from a parallel there is also a theatrical feel about a lot of their work. winter visitors to the east coast universe! When we protested, As I was reading through, I could see many of them as TfL re-investigated. A further tightly-written television dramas. letter from them conirmed Without turning this review into at the Old White Lion to offer London honours that the original route was as a spoiler, you can take your pick support and constructive criti- described by our reader. TfL from a South African inquisition, an cism to each other. apologised for misinforming us English day trip, war-torn Eritrea, a What they have in common and Ms Roberts, but conirmed ghost, an original twist on time-trav- is a love of writing, and anyone local naturalist that they were not considering By Ann Bronkhorst elling, friends meeting again after who shares that will be very wel- changing the existing route. many years, and many more. come at their meetings. If you are Woodland enthusiasts from the Greater London area saw They said that there was There are 36 stories, essays and interested, please contact Carola a distinguished local naturalist honoured for his lifetime low usage along the end of East poems in this book, the work of eight on 020 8883 5808 or Lilian on achievement on Thursday 2 December. City Hall on the End Road and high demand for of the East Finchley Writers. 020 8444 1793. South Bank hosted the London Tree and Woodland buses along Long Lane. Bus Who, where and why Awards, which recognise organisations, individuals and stops along the Manor Way, East Finchley Writers are a schools that have helped to improve London through Squires Lane, Long Lane and diverse group of individuals with Care home their dedication to trees and woodlands. Ballards Lane part of the route distinctive styles and personali- David Bevan, botanist and resulted from coppicing and are used by 24% of all the pas- ties. For the last three years they help former Conservation Oficer other woodland management sengers. have read some of their work at The national charity, Counsel for Haringey, received the methods in both woods, and And another thing… the East Finchley Arts Festival, and Care, supported by the Individual Commitment and paid tribute to the energy and Lorna Roberts had also and they meet on Wednesdays Department of Health, has Achievement Award for his commitment of the two Friends asked TfL whether the H3 published the Care Home work for the woodlands of groups. would ever run more than once Art Exhibition Handbook. north London. Many local Keith Good, one of the an hour, and whether it could be The handbook, which is free people have enjoyed his Friends of Coldfall Wood, extended beyond 2.30pm. From Feb. 1st to 28th at to all Barnet residents, guides guided walks through Cold- was shortlisted for the Photo- TfL told THE ARCHER that cur- CHORAK people through the options for fall Wood and Queen’s Wood, graphic Award with some of rent usage was well matched to 122 High Road funding care, gives advice on and the wealth of knowledge his work enlarged for display one bus per hour, and there was choosing a suitable care home, he continues to share through that evening. Keith’s wildlife insuficient demand to extend and clearly sets out the rights his teaching, advice and active photographs can be seen at the hours of operation Paintings by: and choices involved. To obtain involvement with the London www.coldfallwoods.co.uk a copy of the Care Home Hand- Natural History Society. and for more information L. Platman (mother) book call 0845 300 7585 or go Receiving the award, about David Bevan’s work ���������������� M. Meyer Dp Hyp (daughter) to www.counselandcare.org.uk David outlined the beneits go to freespace.virgin.net/ Certified organic meat A. Meyer (granddaughter) and discoveries that have conserving.bevan /helping-you. at reasonable prices THE WELLBEING COACH ����������������������������� Free-range poultry Based in East Finchley, Dan Roberts offers coaching ������������������������������ Home-made sausages for stress, anxiety, career, relationships, weight loss ���������������������������� (including Boerwors) and all-round mental and physical wellbeing. ��������������������������������� ���������������� Experienced, professional and effective. ������������� ��������������������� � Call 07766 704210 or visit www.danroberts.com ��������������������������� �� ����������������������������� ��������������� 10 FEBRUARY 2011 THE ARCHER - www.the-archer.co.uk Regular Events SPORT & FITNESS Hallelujah, Brent Cross vBadminton Weds eves 8-10pm all abilities, contact George 8349 0170 breaks out in song or John 8444 7163. By Marian Bunzl v Finchley & Hornsey Ramblers Group Call Vivien 8883 8190 A lash mob or, as north London calls it, a spontane- v Glebelands Indoor Bowls Club, ous cultural event, took place on the Saturday before Summers Lane N12. New and Christmas at Brent Cross. Organised by the Highgate experienced bowlers welcome. v Keep fit for the Retired on Choral Society, about 200 singers (including members of Wednesdays, Christ Church N12. North London Chorus) gathered incognito at the shop- Call Bridie 8883 5269 ping centre. Our instructions were to dress and act as vMuswell Hill Bowling Club, Kings Ave, N10. New & experienced bowlers Christmas shoppers. welcome. Tel: 8883 0433. At 11 am, at a signal from a singing out of the lifts, others up vPilates in East Finchley, quali ed hidden organ, we were to burst and down the escalators, shoppers teacher. Contact Dee on 8883 7029 into Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus joined in at random, and mobile vPilates class Weds 3.30 & 7pm at Ann and at the last “Hallelujah!” throw phones popped up everywhere Owens Ctr, N2. Call Penny 8444 2882. vTae Kwon Do for children & adults at our arms into the air, and melt recording the event. Under the Finchley Lido Mon & Fri 7-9pm 07949 into the crowd again. We had to circumstances, it couldn’t be a 612 706. www.taekwondo-uktd.co.uk learn the work by heart, as carry- very polished performance, but vTai Chi class at EF Methodist Ch, ing the scores would s“For ever the response was heartwarming: Weds at 1pm. Call James Drewe 8883 3308 or [email protected] and ever” cheers, applause and hugging, vTennis club with four clay courts off Just before 11am, we gathered and somehow everyone looked Southern Road. Call 8883 7723. in the central corridor and as the much less stressed. v Yoga, breathing & relaxation. introductory bars sounded, off we An hour later Brent Cross Weekly drop-in classes - N3, N6, N10. went. The sound spread through closed down for the day. It wasn’t Phone Judy on 07956 375607. v Yoga, pregnancy yoga, meditation the whole centre. Some came us, Guv! It was the snow. classes. Call Sunnah 07941 321 772 or see www.stretchingpeople.co.uk. Calligrapher Cherrell Avery s work in support of Zimbabwe poets. MUSIC, DANCE & To northern Canada and CREATIVE ARTS back in a day Artist supports poets v Art Classes. For info call Henry on By Jake Eiseman-Renyard 8888 5133. v Ballroom Dance Classes, Wednes- Ruth Gibson and Bruno Martelli’s installation Visitor day eves for beginners & improvers . St invites the viewer to step into a landscape set in a ic- in Zimbabwe Mary s Church Hall, N3. 8444 0280. By Adam Justice-Mills v Ballroom & Latin American Dance tional, though convincing, region in the Canadian Rock- Classes - beginners & improvers. Wed & Fri ies, effectively teleporting you thousands of miles away At the EFO Summer Open last year, I saw an amazing eve, Bishop Douglass Sch. 8207 2323. without having to travel any further than to artsdepot collection of calligraphy by local artist Cherrell Avery. v Creative writing classes in informal, One piece caught my attention: a particularly strong friendly atmosphere. Tel Sallie Rose in North Finchley. 020 8444 7217. Although there are only is it is effectively an avant garde representation of a poem, describing life in Zimbabwe. v Drama Classes for 11-15 year olds. three exhibits, they are video game, interactive, yet The story behind the interpretations of the poems in Mondays 6.30- 8pm. Contact Dominic packed with imagination and arthouse. Although the artists work was also remarkable. three art works, and the poets Conway 0777 284 3958 originality. The irst is a black visited northern Canada for Cherrell is a professional cal- granted permission for them v East Finchley Writers Group, Weds and white shack; effectively a inspiration, they build on the idea at the Old White Lion. Contact Carola ligrapher and lettering artist to be on exhibition. Cherrell 8883 5808 or Lilian 8444 1793. 3D, tangible black and white of “virtual” journeys, inviting and is President of North arranged a “silent auction” of v East Finchley Poetry Writing photograph of a shack, clev- others to share experiences far London Lettering Associa- the works, with 50% of the pro- Workshops. Monthly on Saturdays. erly relecting the monotony beyond simply seeing peoples’ tion. She is always looking for ceeds going directly to the poet. Contact Dennis Evans 8346 9528. of mid-winter weather. holiday photos or videos. new sources of inspiration and One piece was sold (luckily for v Finchley Jazz Club: Live jazz on Inside the shack, guests can The concept of making Mon 14 & 28 Feb at 8.15pm, Wilf Slack heard a Radio 4 programme me, my bid was successful) but Cricket Pavilion, East End Rd, N3. try out a rowing boat simulator “virtual places” by mixing and about young poets in Zimba- the other two are still available v Memory Lane Singing Club - and continue their virtual jour- matching is well-used, but the bwe. She was moved by their for discerning collectors. friendlysinging club meets every Friday ney by water, with a black and media in Visitor add a whole plight and through the Poetry You can contact Cher- in Finchley. Call Valerie 8458 4508. white screen featuring forests, new dimension to it. This time International (Zimbabwe) web- rell through her website v Over 50s Tea Dance at Christ Church, North Finchley. Every Weds, buoys and jetties, under a snowy it was the Rockies, but who site, she chose the words of two www.cherrellavery.co.uk if you 1pm. 020 8444 0280. sky. At the touch of a button, you knows where else you could poets to interpret. would like to buy one of these v Learn to sing at Finchley Methodist can get a wrap-round view of the build a virtual experience from Responding intuitively works. The money will make a Church, Ballards La. Call 8888 4412. boat and the lake. to visit within Finchley? Visitor to the meaning of the words big difference to the poets’ lives vSwampRock Louisiana Dance Club. What I love about this exhibit runs until 27 February. she created beautiful visual in dificult times. Live music. Contact 07957 344 724 or www.swamprock.org.uk. E-mail your listings to: v Symphonic Wind Orchestra Contact Caroline Egan 8340 2706 What s On... [email protected] vTraditional music at EF Constitutional Saturday 5 February London guide. 020 8440 6805. 4.30- 5.15pm, swirly whirly ribbon Baker, City of London guide. 020 Club on 2nd Mon each month from 8.30 An evening of entertainment Tuesday 22 February dancing inspired by Mischief, for 8440 6805. pm. Free to join in or just listen. raising funds for Chalise Village Code Breaker, an evening with ages 5 plus. Further details from box Saturday 5 March and Area Schools Project, Nepal. Ruth Bourne who was a Bletchley office on 020 8369 5454, or email Sound of the Suburb, live at Mad- CLUBS & SOCIAL Special guests: Ania Lichota, [email protected]. (See p8 for Parent & Toddler Clubs) Park Code Breaker during World den s Ale House, 130 High Road, Everest summiteers 2010, Dame War II; 7pm at Avenue House, Thursday 24 February N2. Tel: 020 8444 7444. Local band vBingo evening, 8pm Sundays, at the Kelly Holmes, Rebecca Stephens. East End Road, N3. Tickets £15, The Finchley Society hosts an and regular performers at the East Constitutional Club, The Walks, N2. Suggested entrance price £5-£30. including wine, from Jo Ferris at illustrated talk about The Royal Air Finchley Festival play high energy v Bingo Club Mondays 7-9 pm, Green Finchley Progressive Synagogue, North London Hospice 020 8446 Force Museum by David Keen, head rock n roll cover songs for your Man Centre, Contact: Jan 8815 5452 Hutton Grove, N12, 6pm. More 2288 or Sue Fox 020 8458 3348. of the museum s access and learn- listening and dancing pleasure, 9pm v Contact Lunch Club Tuesdays at the information from Ann Goldstein, All proceeds to North London ing team. Aviation and general RAF to 12 midnight. Free admission. Green Man. Call 8444 1162 to book. 020 8341 3737. Hospice. history, with images from archives Sunday 6 March v Finchley & District Philatelic Sunday 6 February and present day; 2.30pm at Avenue Society, Contact Brian 8444 3251 Wednesday 23 February Find out more about St Mary-at- Fabulous Finchley: a guided walk. Il Trovatore: Are There Four Main House, East End Road, N3 (tel. 020 Finchley (Hendon Lane, N3, close v French conversation in small friendly Meet at Finchley Central tube sta- 8346 7812). All welcome; admis- group with native speaker. 8444 9395. Roles? Lecture by Josie Steinfield, to Church End Library). Guided tion (Ballards Lane exit) at 11am. 11.30am-2pm at Avenue House, sion fee of £2 for non-members. tours of church and churchyard, v Friends of Cherry Tree Wood www. A tour of Finchley Central and East cherrytreewood.co.uk or 8883 7544. East End Road, N3. Tickets £16, Saturday 26 February and opportunity to be interviewed Finchley with Paul Baker, City of incl coffee and sandwiches, from Buffet Supper Concert at All for The Finchley Society s Oral His- v Haringey Recorded Music Society London guide. 020 8440 6805. informal meetings locally. Call David Val Spencer on 020 8906 3134 or Saints Church, Durham Road, tory Project. Teas in the Parish Hall, Moldon on 8361 1696. Saturday 12 February email [email protected]. N2, at 7.30pm. Beethoven, Hanson, 2.30pm-5pm. Admission free. vLGBT? 1st Weds every month in a Barnet Ghosts: a guided walk. All proceeds to North London Hos- Achron and Shostakovich per- What s on at artsdepot local pub. Welcoming atmosphere. Meet outside High Barnet tube sta- pice formed by Orpheus Papafilippou, Saturday 5 February, 7.30pm, Email [email protected] tion booking office at 7.30pm, with Blood donor sessions: mobile unit violin, Gregory Duggan, cello, and Shiraz. Sunday 6 February, v Muslim Lunch Club 1st & 3rd Weds, Paul Baker, City of London guide. in car park to rear of East Finchley Rimantas Vingras, piano. Catering 1pm-2.45pm, Sunday Buzz Free Green Man. Call 8444 1162 to book. 020 8440 6805. tube station from 9.40am-12.20pm by Amici Delicatessen. Concert and - Strangeworld. Thursday 10 Feb- v North London Bridge Club, Muswell Saturday 19 February and 2pm-4.40pm. Further details supper: £15 (must be pre-booked by ruary, 7.30pm, Balletboyz: The Hill. Contact 8348 3495 Spike Milligan Statue Fund event. and appointments 0300 123 23 midday Friday 25 February); con- Talent: London premiere. Saturday v Northside Bridge Club, EF Methodist Quiz night at Martin School, East 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk. cert only: £10 on door. Information 12 February, 7pm, Clive. Tuesday Church, Thurs 7.30-11pm. 8346 8145. Finchley. £5 per person. Contact Thursday 24 February to Saturday 020 8444 9214. Box Offices: Les 15 February to Wednesday 16 v Jewish Friendship Club for over 60s, 020 8346 5258 for tickets. 26 February Aldrich, 98 Fortis Green, N10 (0208 February, 7.30pm, The Caucasian Tues 1-3 pm at Muswell Hill Synagogue, Half-term at artsdepot, North 883 5631), Black Gull Books, 121 Chalk Circle. Saturday 19 Febru- Sunday 20 February High Road, N2 (0208 444 4717). Tetherdown. Call Anita 8886 6140. The Battle of Barnet: a guided Finchley: Mischief at 3pm, an ary, 7.30pm, Emily Smith. Friday v Muswell Hill Tetherdown Bridge, walk. Meet at junction of the Great award-winning mix of dance, visual Sunday 27 February 25 February, 8pm, Zoe Lyons: contact 8883 4390 North Road and Hadley Green Road art, puppetry, live music and playful Marvellous Mill Hill: guided Clownbusting. Friday 4 March, v Probus Lunch Club for retired at 11am, with Paul Baker, City of clowning, for ages five plus; Ribbon walk. Meet outside Mill Hill East 8pm, Gwyneth Herbert. professionals. Call John 8883 8114. Dance Workshop at 2-2.45pm and tube station at 11am, with Paul 11 THE ARCHER - www.the-archer.co.uk FEBRUARY 2011 Letters to the Editor Send your correspondence to: “Letters Page”, For those who love to Gritting: give us It is essential that this sense of history The Archer, PO Box 3699, the tools and community should continue if London N2 8JA or e-mail Barnet is not to become just another [email protected]. write Joyce Arram, who lives in Sum- outskirt of the metropolis, and these merlee Gardens, wrote to us to Letters without verifiable Although immensely two museums are important factors contact addresses will not be say residents might be willing to in this. satisfying, writing is keep crucial road junctions clear reviewed or printed. Contact For example, in addition to details can be withheld, however, a lonely occupation, if Barnet Council could provide the its educational exhibitions, every on request at publication. according to author and necessary grit. year Church Farmhouse Museum confidence coach Dave Dear Editor, in association with HADAS, the Robson. That’s why he At a Residents Forum meeting Barnet-based archaeologists, Join the held by Barnet Council shortly after believes the most valuable hosts demonstration excavations in thing a writer or would-be last winter’s bad weather, we were its grounds for local schools. These told that Barnet had over 1,000 bins have proved extremely popular and singing and writer can have is feedback with sand/grit on the streets of the educational, helping the pupils gain from other writers and Borough for use on our roads. Where an understanding of their history and signing aspiring writers. were the ones for East Finchley? I that of Barnet. Deaf and hearing young Dave has started The Pen certainly have not seen any in our Whilst we recognise the need people are invited to perform and Ink Club, an informal says Dave. “We remove the streets or even the High Road, and to economise, the beneits to the writers’ group open to anyone intimidation by encouraging, neighbours assure me they have not show tunes, chart hits and Borough of keeping these muse- favourite songs at artsdepot who loves writing or yearns to supporting and giving positive seen them either. ums open are out of all proportion write. “It doesn’t matter what feedback to anyone who wants It is all very well for the Council to the relatively small sums of money every Saturday until 2 April you want to write or whether to make sure that the main roads to have a go.” involved, and we strongly oppose from 12.30-2.30pm. you want it published, or even The club meets at The Café are passable, but if they ignore All songs are translated into any suggestion of their closure. if you haven’t started yet,” in Alexandra Palace Garden the side roads so that residents Yours faithfully, British Sign Language, so that cannot drive on them as they are Dave explains. “Our members Centre from 12-2.30pm fort- Don Cooper, participants can sing or sign. are working on novels, non-ic- too dangerous, how is this going to Anyone aged 13 to 19 will be nightly on Tuesdays. The next help our economy, if people cannot HADAS Chairman tion books, advertising copy, meetings are 15 February, 1 very welcome. Artsdepot is at 5 websites, blogs, newsletters, get to work, or delivery vans get to Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, March, 15 March and 29 March. Thanks for your support articles for magazines, news- them? North Finchley. Please contact The cost is £10 per person per Surely it is not too much to ask Dear Editor, papers and ezines, humour, meeting, or £7 for people on We would like to take this oppor- 020 8369 5454 or education@ for or expect of this council in these artsdepot.co.uk to book your satire, poetry and plays.” a low income. Dave can be days of the “Big Society” for it to tunity to thank all your readers for Encouragement contacted at info@daverobso the invaluable support they have free place. ensure that these bins are placed Members can have their arti- ncoaching.co.uk or 020 8374 on strategic parts of our side roads given Barnet charities over the last 7911 and advises phoning or year and to wish all of them the very cles, poems or other material - junctions are obvious places - illed Driver published on the club’s website emailing in advance to conirm with the requisite sand/grit/salt. best for 2011. the meeting is going ahead. CommUNITY Barnet represents www.penandinkclub.com, and Certainly in the little conurbation they receive support and inspi- of Summerlee Avenue/Baronsmere close to 1,000 voluntary and commu- wanted nity organisations in our borough. THE ARCHER is looking for ration from fellow members. and Southern Roads there are Dave started the club while residents who would be willing to From the smallest community someone who could spare Further ensure that the junctions are gritted groups to larger charities, our a small amount of time inalising the manuscript for his so that we are not isolated. And of members do excellent work such as once a month to distribute new book The Five Pillars of course it’s not just roads; just as improving our environment, organ- the paper to some of our Happiness and he says the sup- study important are pavements. While ising fun activities for our children, port he received was immensely providing information, advice and network of deliverers. some residents are willing to clear If you have your own car helpful. The group was then the pavements outside their homes befriending, supporting people with able to celebrate its irst suc- lures Sage disabilities and their carers or provid- and could take copies of the for people to walk safely, there are paper to a handful of local cessfully published author. still areas which resemble skating ing meals and shelter for vulnerable “Many would-be writers people in our communities. addresses, please contact us rinks so that the elderly and inirm are at [email protected] or give up, especially when they director marooned in their homes unable to They would not be able to do this get rejections, and some never By Diana Cormack important work without the fantastic leave a message on 0844 579 get to the shops. Come on, Barnet: 6949, then mailbox number start because they believe Change is coming at The if you provide us with the tools we support from Barnet residents who they’ll never be good enough,” Noble Sage Art Gallery, generously volunteer their time and 63450. Thank you. will get on with the job. 2a Fortis Green. After Yours faithfully, money. Please accept our deepest thanks and best wishes for 2011. Klages Plumbing & Heating Agency LTD. four years of setting up Joyce Arram and running one of the Summerlee Gardens, N2. Yours faithfully, CONTACT TELEPHONE No: 020 8346 7218 / 8636 Ruth����������������������������� Mulandi, few places in the country Protect our local CEO, CommUNITY Barnet, KLAGE specialising in South museums www.communitybarnet.org.uk Asian contemporary art, Dear Editor, Praise for local shops A NAME IN PLUMBING FOR OVER 40 YEARS director Jana Manuelpillai Barnet Council’s cabinet met on Dear Editor, has decided to follow a long-held dream. This Monday 13 December and proposed After moving from N10 to N2 last Exclusive in the UK to: the withdrawal of all funding from year, my local shopping experience is to expand his already the only two council-supported has been unexpectedly delightful. extensive knowledge of art museums in the borough: Barnet The shops in the High Road are AP Gentlemens Barbers history and connoisseurship Museum and Church Farmhouse genuinely useful and the service very CRAZY BULL Hair Products by undertaking a PhD Museum. There was to be a period helpful. In particular, East Finchley of public consultation up to 17 Janu- Electrical has dealt with a variety “You deserve the right research degree. ary, and then a inal recommendation of lighting problems with a patient to have beautiful & stylish hair every day” Jana will be studying at Lon- don’s world famous School of by the cabinet in February. cheerfulness and understanding 50 High Road, East Finchley, London N2 9PJ The Borough of Barnet contains of one’s ignorance that brightens a t: 0203 441 8048 Oriental and African Studies. a long and rich history dating back dull day. We are lucky to have shops He will research and write his to the Romans and beyond, and this like these. thesis around the Madras Gov- has been a signiicant contributor Yours faithfully, ernment College of Art and the over the years to the sense of com- Barbara Goward, artists who have emerged from munity and coherence within Barnet. Fortis Green Avenue, N2. it in the last ifty years, some of ������������������������������������������� whom he has promoted at The ����������������������������������������������� Noble Sage along with many ������������������������������������������������ other artists from South India. Slimming World ������������������������������������������������� East Finchley Due to this change, The ������������ ������������ Noble Sage will now func- can be found at:- ������������ ��������������� tion on an appointment-only � � East Finchley Methodist Church ����������������� ������������������ basis. Anyone interested in ����������� ����������������� 197 High Rd viewing needs to contact Jana ���������������� ��������������� (opposite Creighton Avenue) ������������������ ��������� ([email protected]) Wednesdays 9.30am, 5pm and 7pm to arrange for a specialist ���������������������������� tour of the current collec- Telephone Natalie on tion. The collection itself will 07889 252548 for all enquiries �������������������� continue to grow and change ���������������� ������������� as normal with works still ������������ available to view online at ������������� ������������������ www.thenoblesage.com.
��������������������� ������ ����������������� ����������������������������� ����������������������������� John’s Shoe Repairs FEBRUARY 2011 PAGE 12 Shoes, Trainers, Sandals, Bags and Luggage Complete Repair Service by a craftsman Same day if required Key Cutting 1 Manor Park Rd. N2, behind 88 Church Lane, opposite Trinity Church PublishedHE by East Finchley Newspapers, P.O. RCHERBox 3699, London N2 8JA. www.the-archer.co.uk Tel: 07956 329 150 Open 12-7pm T A Strictly social By Daphne Chamberlain Been to a tea dance recently? If not, what held you back: shyness, lack of a partner, lack of conidence, a bad time elsewhere? In December John Lintern told us how much dancing helps with older people’s mental and physical itness. John, with Betty Chi, runs tea dances at Christ Church Hall, North Finchley (opposite Homebase), and when I visited, regulars and “newbies” alike were keen to give me their views. Vera Wheeler was typical in saying she hadn’t danced since she was in her teens. Then she took it up again four years ago, and soon got back in the swing of it. Wasp wonder Sylvia Szanto loves the music, company and Not many of us have a kind word to say for wasps but joy of dancing. “Enjoy it while you can,” she says. these summer pests are capable of constructing a home “If any of us see dances we don’t know somewhere every bit as complex and beautiful as a beehive. else, John will show us how to do them.” This photo was sent to us by or drove it elsewhere. Partnerships lourish reader Gill Steiner, who found Gill said: “Apparently, the The sessions are not all strictly this (thankfully deserted) wasp wasps chew up wood and mix it ballroom. I saw sequence and nest in the loft of her home in with saliva to make the papery line dancing, an Irish jig and Woodside Avenue on Christmas thin chambers. What amazes the Charleston, at a pace all the Day. me when you look at the nest is participants can manage. So Behind this intricately swirl- the team effort required: wasps nobody need worry about turn- ing casing is a set of hexagonal in the irst year of life following ing up alone. Partnerships can chambers, in which the wasps live their instincts or instructions from lourish, though. I heard about and store food. Gill believes the the queen to manufacture a home By Adam Justice-Mills Linda and George, who married harsh days of early December for the next generation. You can’t after meeting at this group. either killed off the community help but feel humbled.” Almost time for spring clear-out. There’s a pile of stuff that Pat and Carol, another mar- once seemed essential to our lives. Now it’s past its use: kids ried couple, have recently joined. MIGHTEEFIT HEALTH STUDIO NORTH WEST LONDON’S BEST KEPT SECRET have grown up, girths have expanded, technology moves on. Pat was a boxer and footballer in What to do with it? his youth, but after damaging his Kick Start 2011 with a Of course, there’s land-ill (actually this is “last resort”, a rapidly legs in an accident when he was COMPLIMENTARY dwindling resource, reckoned to run out in the UK on present usage by 14, he found that dancing was training session! 2018). So, reduce, re-use, recycle. We’ve put stuff outside our house for the best way to strengthen them. anyone that wants it but recently it got picked up by scrap metal dealers They were competition dancers CONTACT US TODAY! (leaving the non-metal bits). I prefer to think some could be re-used, 28 years ago, but now they dance preferably in a good cause. to have fun. Our team of expert health coaches Pass it on No cliques will make each session Freecycle is a way to offer (or get) used stuff, for free! Log into Brenda from Hendon told fun, varied and effective! www.freecycle.org, or join a local group such as Freecycle Barnet. me: “There’s such a friendly Email a list of the stuff you have, with a contact number, and get loads atmosphere. I’ve been to other M I G H T E E F I T H E A L T H S T U D I O of people offering to take it off your hands. They collect from your door places where they are snooty East End Road N2 0LZ 020 3224 3043 mighteefit.com and you give it to them for free. and cliquey, but that doesn’t It works the other way round, too: send a “wanted” email or reply to happen here.” someone else’s offer and pick it up from them for free. There are some The weekly Wednesday ses- sensible rules: no animals, personal services, explosives etc, and the sions tend to be for older people, goods are all offered “as seen”. We’ve handed over wardrobes, shelving, while there is more of a mixture ��� ���� light ittings, packing cases and bicycles. of ages on Sundays. ��� If you don’t like the idea of people coming round, East Finchley charity John, a retired maths and � shops welcome donations they can sell to raise money for their causes. science teacher, lives in East They all like clean clothes and books, jewellery and knick-knacks; some Finchley. He and Betty also will take toys; most won’t take electrical items or soft furnishings. run dance classes and give pri- Tech stuff can be harder to shift and you should always check the vate lessons. Visit their website hard drives are wiped properly or removed before handing them over as jandbdance.co.uk, or call 020 they’ve got your identity data all over them. Check out wwwenvocare.co.uk 8444 0280 for further details. for ethical and established tech recycling organisations for phones, com- puters and TVs. That pile of stuff is looking smaller and more beautiful already! Calling all � � � electric car � �� � � � �� � drivers � �� � Adam Justice-Mills, who � � � writes our Every Little Helps ��� � column, is planning to write an � � � � article about the reality of owning �� � � � � � � ��� � � and running an electric car: why � � � � � ������������������������� � � � � people choose an electric car, the � ��� �� � � ��������������������������������������� � � � beneits to the environment, and � �� � ������������������������������������ how practical they are to use. If ����� � you own an electric car, Adam � � ����������������������������� would like to interview you. � Get in touch via email on the- � ����������������������������������������������������� [email protected] or leave � 020������������� 8442 0660 � ����������������������������������������������� your details on our voicemail ��� ���� �� ���� �������� ������ �� � by phoning 0844 579 6949 and � �������������� � entering mailbox number 63450. �������������������� � ���������������������������������� �������������������������������������� Thank you. � � The Archer is a non-proit-making, non political & non religious newspaper, staffed entirely by volunteers.