WINTER 2006 Issue 2 | free the starTHE MAGAZINE FROM THE STAR OF INDIA RESTAURANT
St John’s Leytonstone St John’s at Christmas Spicy little numbers Authentic Indian recipes Sugar & spice… 16th Century traditional Christmas fayre news Local and beyond
Happy Christmas From the temples of Dinajpur to the tea gardens of Sylhet, from the rain forests of Sundarbans to the white sands of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh offers a myriad of exotic sights, cultures and culinary delights – the essence of which you’ll discover in Bangla Premium Beer. A stronger beer, Bangla perfectly complements stronger flavours.
It’s Name… Inspired by ‘Bangla’, one of the richest languages in the world as immortalised in poetry and song by the Nobel Prize winner Rabindra Nath Tagore. It’s Colour… It has a deep gold colour, reminiscent of the golden hue of the sun setting over the Bay of Bengal. It’s Taste… Bangla beer is a specially created brew, designed to complement Bangladeshi and Indian Cuisine. It is stronger to provide a robust taste platform to soften the most warming of spices but remain delicate enough to augment the sophisticated texture of curry dishes. It has a rich full flavoured smooth taste. It is simply Chamotkar!
Buy Bangla Beer & help your Bangladesh charity LWC the brand owner of Bangla Beer would like to donate to a charity of the restaurants choice. To claim for your donation and for more information please contact please contact Faruque Golam Tel: 07812 555436 (South & Midlands) or Gulam Remtulla Tel: 07980 768 520 (North & Scotland) LWC Limited, Unit 3, Stainburn Road, Manchester, M11 2ER Tel: 0161 438 4060 Fax: 0161 438 4061 starthe
Season’s Greetings WINTER 2006 | Issue 2 Contents ere it is – our second issue, thank you for all your good wishes and 02 Letters Hsupport. Your response to the magazine has been fantastic, keep the 03 St John’s Church Leytonstone suggestions, articles and feedback coming! 04 News and events What’s going on near you In this issue we have several contributions from local people. We have also introduced two 05 The Woodhouse Players new sections; Focus on… which highlights local groups and organisations and Schools. Panto fun for all the family
Over the next few months you’ll see some changes to the Star, as the magazine develops 06 Nosh group and grows. We really want to see it become a part of the community, to be a point of The ladies who lunch reference and a place to share information. Feel free to get in touch, we welcome your 07 Sugar and spice… input and feedback. 16th Century Christmas fayre
Our recent launch party was a great 08 Drink success, we were delighted to see so The Bond Martini cocktail revival many of you there. Thank you to Cllr. 09 Spicy little numbers Clyde Loakes the Leader of the Waltham Authentic Indian Samosa recipe Forest Council for his support. 10 The Star of India presents Winter is now truly upon us, and our Lamb shank, Rogan Josh style thoughts turn to Christmas. At this time 11 Competition time of year, we all need a helping hand to Another chance to win a meal for two fight off colds and flus, survive Christmas shopping and the pitfalls of the festive 12 Spice of life season. We have compiled some quick remedies to help see you through, (see page 9 for Discover the medicine cabinet in your details) and for an alternative Christmas supper (go to page 10). kitchen cupboard 13 …that’s handy Christmas is a time when we can get together with loved ones, regardless of religion, as Essential contact numbers, opening Shah says “my family and I celebrate Christmas though not in the traditional sense. We times over Christmas and New Year spend time with the family and cook special meals”. 14 Focus on… Local community groups Happy Christmas from all of us at the Star. 15 Schools The Star team Primary school life leading up to Christmas 16 Diary Dates for your calendar
Photo: from left to right; Publisher Shah Ahmed Geoff Hogg, Unsworth Leytonstone Published by Star of India Shah Ahmed, Publisher and Editor www.starofindiauk.com Lara Geary, Editor and The Lightside owner [email protected] Cllr Clyde Loakes, Leader of Waltham Forest Council Editors Shah Ahmed & Lara Geary Design, production & research The Lightside www.thelightside.net The contents of this magazine are protected under [email protected] copyright law, reproduction is not permitted without permission. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for Contributions errors in advertisements, articles, photographs or Thank you to all of you who have contributed, illustrations and we reserve the right to edit copy. Cover image ©Chris Pearce - Fotolia articles, photographs and advice.
AUTUMN 2006 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE 1 Send letters to: The Star magazine, 875 High Road, Leytonstone, London E11 1HR
Email letters [email protected] Please supply your name and postal address. Letter may be edited.
Dear Editor,
I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed
the first issue of the Star. I work in Dear Shah, Thank you for your recently delivered publication publishing and wanted to commend your "the Star". I found it an excellent magazine.
production effort. However, when reading the recipe for "Chicken Jalfrezi", method 1 states that you should cook the chicken cubes until brown and leave on a plate to cool. It then shows you how to make the rest of I really like Indian food but am a lousy the recipe. What is not clear, is when to put the cooked chicken back into the sauce. cook. Do you have any authentic tasting Could you please tell me when to return the cooked recipe suggestions that even I could cook? chicken back into the sauce?
Thank you, Elisabeth Roberts, Leytonstone. I wish you much success with the magazine Dear Elisabeth, and look forward to seeing the next issue. Please accept my apologies for this omission. The recipe should read:
4 Return the chicken to the pan. Add 250ml water, Gabrielle Forbes, Wanstead cover and simmer over a low heat for 20 minutes.
We will endeavour to ensure all our future recipes “I really like Indian are clear. I hope it didn’t spoil your enjoyment of Dear Gabrielle, the dish. food but am a lousy Kind regards, Thank you so much for your comments. I cook. Do you have Shah hope you will be pleased to hear our recipe any authentic tasting Dear Shah, feature for the next issue (3), will be quick recipe suggestions Well, my wife’s 40th birthday party was a huge suppers. Shah is busy compiling easy to success, with no little help from the fabulous food prepared by the Star of India. All our guests were that even I could cook recipes, ideal for a night in. Please let thoroughly impressed by the quality, quantity and outstanding flavours of the food. Your staff were cook?” us know how you get on with them. efficient and friendly and the buffet arrived quickly, hot and on time.
I was even more impressed by the after party Kind regards, provision, when your staff returned the following morning to take the remains away. Excellent, no Lara, Editor washing up!
Many thanks, Norman, Leytonstone.
2 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 Chanucah by Ashley & Louise Gunstock Chanucah, the Festival of Light, is celebrated by Jewish people and usually falls in the month of December. Chanucah commemorates the story of a Christmas at St John’s Church great victory of the Jews over the Syrian-Greeks in 165 BCE. St. John’s Church is a well known local landmark. Situated on Leytonstone High Road, at the junction with Church Lane, it is just 100 yards from Leytonstone underground and bus station. The people of The Syrian-Greeks were led by King Antiochus IV the parish have played an active role in the life of Leytonstone for more than 170 years. who issued a decree that all people should worship pagan gods and forbade the study of the Torah. He Life at St. John's Raymond Draper, the current Vicar of St. John’s then plundered the Temple in Jerusalem and We believe the Christian faith to be relevant to men, says a few words on Christianity and Christmas: introduced Syrian cults. This resulted in a revolt women, young people and children of all ages and of “We believe that to be human is to love and honour by the Jews led by the Hasmonean family of all backgrounds. At St. John's, we see people from God and to love and respect all that God has made, Mattathias, the High Priest and his youngest son, many walks of life and from different nationalities. human or non-human. Judaism, Christianity, Islam Judah. They fought the Syrian-Greeks and We seek to extend a welcome to al and to be a warm, and the other world religions all teach this. eventually, after three years, successfully expelled caring and supportive church, sharing them from Israel and restored the Temple. God's love. We find our peace in our relationship with God and the whole of his creation. To be human is to live in After the idols had been removed from the Temple History of St. John's the mercy of God and to share that mercy with and it had been cleaned, the Priests were ready to In 1748, we see proposals for the erection of a others. This is the heart of the Christian festival of light the Temple Menorah (light). They could only chapel in the village of Leytonstone, on the plea that Christmas. In the scripture readings, in the carols, find one jug of oil that was fit to use. A Menorah "the inhabitants in general find it very inconvenient, in the services and customs of the Christmas period, is always kept burning in a temple and it was lit and many utterly impossible for them to resort you will find a deep joy and a glorious peace. every day with the purest of oil – only the first thither (the church of Leyton), at least so frequently drop of oil from each olive was used and it took as they ought for ye public worship of God". Some of the most beautiful and inspiring services of seven days to make a single batch of oil. However, The chapel was built on the site in 1749. By 1818, the year take place at Christmas. Why not visit a although there was only enough oil left to keep the population had increased and it was felt that the church this Christmas to share in a carol service or the Menorah alight for one day, it lasted eight size of the chapel was inadequate for 1,600 people. a midnight mass? People of all ages and all faiths days, giving sufficient time for a new batch of oil are welcome”. Raymond Draper, Vicar of St. John’s. to be made. St. John’s of today Now our history moves forward to the present church For further information visit The fact that the oil kept burning for eight days of St. John the Baptist. In 1829-30, plans for a new, www.stjohns-leytonstone.org.uk instead of one day, is considered a miracle by the larger "chapel" with burial ground on the site of the Jewish people and it is this, together with the old building, were taking shape. St John’s Christmas Eve services Jewish victory over the Syrian-Greeks, that is Sunday 24 December celebrated at Chanucah. A Subscription List was opened for the new chapel 8.00am Holy Communion (BCP) and by the 30 October 1830, nearly £2,500 had been 10.30am Holy Communion (Common Worship) At Chanucah, Jewish people light a Menorah in raised. The new chapel and burial ground were 11.30pm Midnight Mass their home. It is an eight branched candelabra and consecrated and dedicated by the Bishop of London, one candle is lit for each day on the Menorah so Dr. Blomfield, on the 31 October 1833. St John’s Christmas Day services that by the eighth day all candles are alight. Monday 25 December Presents are given to children each day and usually The new chapel was able to accommodate 600 8.00am Holy Communion (BCP) include a gift of money. Games are played and people. Baptisms and burials were performed but 10.30am Christmas Pageant songs are sung. Traditionally latkes (potato marriages had to go to Leyton until, on the 3 What shall we do to save the world? pancakes), are eaten and it is a time of festivity February 1845, at the Court of Buckingham Palace, and enjoyment. St. John’s had a parish assigned.
Photograph © Erika Walsh - FOTOLIA WINTER 2006 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE 3 news and events
Contact us if you have something you would like featured in this regular slot.
India bans export of lentils In June this year the Union Commerce Ministry of India, declared a ban on the export of pulses, sugar and wheat. The decision to impose the ban was taken to help stabilise prices as crops were severely affected by last year’s drought.
Prices for lentils have rocketed across the world since the ban was introduced. The popularity of lentils is such that many people have gone into panic buying mode to satisfy their appetite for dhal.
There is a growing belief that the domestic price rise is due to the Government’s decision to allow the trade of dhal on the stock exchange. This has led to an increase in private trading which has reduced availability for some of the poorest people in India, who depend on subsidised prices from government owned suppliers.
Lentils, or dhal, are extremely important to Indian cooking. For most Indians, lentils are a staple food, Photograph© Lara Geary providing the main source of protein. Indians prefer to cook with lentils grown in their own country, as William Morris Gallery is number one they are considered superior to those of other lentil producing nations, such as Canada, Australia and The Times Online has highlighted the exhibition of artwork Turkey. India is one of the biggest producers and consumers of dhal, the export market being worth in by Sir Frank Brangwyn, at the William Morris Gallery, as excess of £100 million per year. number one in its list of the top five galleries nationwide.
The ban was due to be lifted in December but has been extended until 31 March 2007. The cost of lentils 'The William Morris Gallery & Brangwyn Gift' has doubled in Britain to £1.40/kg, with some retailers rationing their supplies. An Exhibition at the William Morris Gallery 24 October 2006 – 17 February 2007 This exhibition looks at the life and works of Sir Frank Brangwyn R.A. (1867 – 1956). Postal scam warning! The Royal Mail Fraud Unit have issued the following warning regarding a postal scam. Brangwyn, was the founding benefactor of the William Morris Gallery, donating his collection to the borough. The A card is posted through your door from a company called PDS (Parcel Delivery Service), suggesting artist had associations with William Morris in his early that they were unable to deliver a parcel and that you need to contact them on 0906 6611911, which career. Members of the Brangwyn family are still in touch is a premium rate number. Do not call this number, as this is a mail scam. If you call the number with the gallery, and have been involved with the and start to hear a recorded message, you will already have been billed £15 for the phone call. exhibition. This year, 2006, marks the 50th anniversary of Brangwyn's death. If you do receive a card with these details, then please contact Royal Mail Fraud on 020 7239 6655. The exhibition showcases Brangwyn’s work as a painter and printmaker. There are displays of applied art produced from his designs, including furniture and an important collection of ceramics.
Walthamstow Library open for business Admission is free – donations welcomed. Walthamstow Library will re-open on 18 December 2006. William Morris Gallery, Lloyd Park, Forest Road, E17 4PP Tel: 020 8527 3782 There will be events and activities taking Web: http://www1.walthamforest.gov.uk/wmg place each day to mark the opening of the new library. For the young and those young at heart New services include: V&A Museum of Childhood • all new stock including 50,000 new books and The museum has undergone a £4.7m audio-visual items • free WiFi hotspots – a fast, reliable wireless transformation and will reopen on Saturday 9 broadband Internet connection via a laptop, December. The extensive work has transformed Artists impression of the new Walthamstow library PDA or mobile the museum and highlights include new galleries, • audio-visual library featuring ‘listening posts’ so you can try before you buy interactive areas and offers full disabled access. • children’s library - an extended library including a dedicated children’s IT suite ‘Happy Birthday Miffy’ • adult fiction library – a larger library to browse the new books • reference library – all new reference resources and extended study space. See the work of Dick Bruna, celebrating 50 years of this Building work will continue on the remaining areas with the full library re-opening in March 2007. timeless children’s character. Features will include an IT suite with 22 new computers and a new non-fiction library. The exhibition runs from 9 Visit us at: Walthamstow Library, High Street, Walthamstow, E17 7JN December 2006 to 18 March Miffy the artist 1997 © Mercis bv If you require any further information, please contact 2007, admission is free. Tel: 020 8496 1100 Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA Email: [email protected] For more information and fun stuff visit their Web: http://libraries.walthamforest.gov.uk website at www.museumofchildhood.org.uk
4 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 Countdown to C day Let us know your views on the smoking ban which will take effect on July 1 2007. Contact us [email protected]
UK TV Local Food Hero nomination A big thank you to all of you who voted for Shah from the Star of India in the UKTV search for a Local Food Hero.
The UKTV show, Gary Rhodes’ Local Food Heroes started in November and set out to find the champion of local food. Nominations were received from all over the country and regional finalists were identified. Mike Thurlow of Letheringsett Mill, East Anglia, has been crowned UKTV Food’s Local Food Hero 2006.
High Road E11 update
In response to the high number of requests from local residents and businesses, we have received the following update from Waltham Forest Council on the works at the Town centre.
High Road/Bush Road Roundabout Signals • The civil works are complete • Civil work complete • the signal commissioning is due to take place • TfL signal commissioning date to be agreed - on 14 November requested to take place at the same time as • the CCTV camera is due to be installed during the commissioning of the Toucan Crossing in the second week of December and should be Whipps Cross Road. fully functioning by early January. Local Traffic Signal Network Poster designed by Nicola Holland Whipps Cross Toucan Crossing December 2006 – February 2007, TfL will refine • Civil works commenced 13 November (duration signal timing at Bush Road, the Roundabout and of two weeks) at some 10 other local sets of traffic signals in The Woodhouse Players • TfL signal modifications are booked for week order to arrive at the best solution for the The evil Sultan wants to kill all the commencing 27 November (duration of four prevailing traffic flows in the overall area. pure-hearted boys and girls in his Sultanate! days) Can Ali Baba stop him? • the new signals to be operational by For further information, please contact Friday 1 December. Waltham Forest Direct on 020 8496 3000.
The Metropolitan Police Male Voice Choir By Leslie Stow
“A Policemen’s Lot is not a happy one” may The members voluntarily devote their time and be true if singing Gilbert & Sullivan’s “Pirates expenses to the demands of practice and of Penzance” but certainly not if singing in performances. They cater for all musical tastes, the Metropolitan Police Male Voice Choir. This with a repertoire ranging from Bach to the Beetles, rollicking band of G & S enthusiasts have spirituals and other sacred music, musical hall and been singing for the Metropolitan Police since songs from the shows. 1945. Choral groups have been popular and The choir’s services are in great demand for fund indeed encouraged in the Police Service since raising concerts and whilst it is not possible to the late 19th century but the present quantify the amount of money generated by these members are all of more recent stock! concerts, it is estimated at hundreds of thousands The annual Woodhouse pantomime takes you to of pounds. the East (of London), with its palatial splendour, In times of sorrow they are dignified, in its passionate culture and its excellent drainage competition they are dedicated, in concert they are system. Join Ali Baba and the beautiful Princess entertaining, always anxious to perpetuate the Macademia as they battle to protect themselves friendly relationship between police and public, on and all the boys and girls from the evil Sultan. which community policing and mutual trust have Along the way they meet a magical genie and been established over many years. four rather suspicious types who may be a bit light-fingered. Leslie Stow from The Metropolitan Police Male Voice Choir. We're a friendly group of people mostly from East London and Essex. We get together to produce The Choir will be performing at their Christmas Concert the kind of shows we like, including quite a bit Retired and serving members of the Metropolitan at St John’s Church Leytonstone, on Wednesday 13 of new work. We are currently seeking people to Police Service combine to form a male voice choir December. Proceeds will go to the St John’s Restoration design and operate lighting and sound. who, bonded by a love of singing, have justifiably Appeal. gained a reputation comparable to other choirs and To book tickets call 020 8989 5044 For tickets and to get involved, call established themselves as true ambassadors for Prices £9 and £6 concessions when booked in advance, 020 8504 387 or visit police and public relations, both in this country £10 and £7 on the night. www.thewoodhouseplayers.co.uk and abroad. Refreshments are included in the price.
WINTER 2006 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE 5 You’ve heard of Ladies who Lunch, now how about Damsels who Dine? There’s a gourmet foursome from the Bushwood Area Residents’ Association (BARA), who are eating their way down Leytonstone High Road. The Nosh Girls,
Jo, Marion, Ruth Photograph© Lara Geary and Katy, meet one evening a month for The Nosh Girls their adventurous So far the Nosh Girls have sampled the restaurant African dishes she tried: “I found the dumplings Nosh Night. fare of India – quite a few; also Nepal, Africa, rather heavy, and fish mixed with meat was unusual Ghana/African-Caribbean, Japan, Lithuania and for me”, but the service was good and very friendly.” Spain, one of each; China, two and Thailand, three – She can also recommend the steaks at the Walnut as well as British at the Walnut Tree. And they’ve Tree – “very good value for money”, the Mixed Food had some memorable experiences along the way! Box (“excellent”) at the Japanese Ichiban, the Nepalese food in Base Camp and the Chinese food at Ruth liked the Indian restaurants, “but then that is Kam’s next door. The photo of The Nosh Girls was taken at my favourite food; Golden Curry, Star of India and Swaad. This South Indian restaurant serves a Golden Orient especially”. (Since the Nosh Girls’ visit, Like Katy, Marion prefers fairly mild Indian dishes tasty meal at a good price – the food bill the Golden Orient has joined forces with The and recommends the Star of India for their king totalled only £38 for all four Nosh Girls. Maghreb at the same premises, serving North African prawn korma – “best korma in Leytonstone” – closely cuisine as well as all the Golden Orient favourites). followed by the Golden Orient. The Spanish The Nosh Girls pictured from left to right, Ruth also enjoyed the Chinese food in Kam’s, and restaurant Elche was good, too – “a wide variety of Jo, Marion, Ruth and Katy. thought the food in the evening at Chopsticks better tapas and very friendly service”. Marion also enjoyed than their lunchtime offerings. “The African the Singburi Thai Café: “They do an excellent beef restaurants were different from what I’d eaten before masaman with coconut rice, the best I’ve had – plantain, yams, rice and beans in a hot sauce.” anywhere” and the two African restaurants: “Jollof Leytonstone High Road, E11 Ruth also found the Nepalese food at Base Camp rice, fried plantains, rice with black-eyed beans – delicious – “not quite like anything I’d tried before”, delicious, and the friendly staff were happy to explain Star of India Tel: 8989 4028 (no. 875) and two of the Thai restaurants – Petch Sayam and the ingredients”. Marion’s favourite so far is Lina: Base Camp Tel: 8988 3904 (no. 552) Thailander – were very good. She adds: “I was also “This small Lithuanian restaurant was quite a change impressed by the Walnut Tree”. Ruth’s favourites so from other countries’ cuisines. It’s well worth a try if Chopsticks Tel: 8539 7802 (no. 686) farareanyoftheIndianandthetwoThai you’d like something different”. Elche Tel: 8558 0008 (no. 569) restaurants she mentions, plus Elche, Base Camp and Kam’s. Jo, Ruth and Katy also enjoyed their visit, especially Garden City Tel: 8522 1313 (no. 269) for Lina’s potato rösti with sour cream. Golden Curry Tel: 8539 8243 (no. 734) Ruth has some tips for vegetarians, too: “In all, Jo says that she doesn’t really have a favourite from Ichiban Tel: 8556 7591 (no. 721) these restaurants aren’t a problem for vegetarian all the restaurants they’ve tried – so many have choices, especially the Indian, Chinese and Thai I’ve been good. She says: “My favourite thing about our Kam’s Tel: 8539 2573 (no 554) mentioned. However, there didn’t seem to be many restaurant visits is the pleasant surprises we’ve had – Petch Sayam Tel: 8556 6821 (no. 682) veggie things on offer at Lina so I plumped for a huge good, interesting meals at places we may not have rösti!” She was impressed by the great choice of thought to try if they hadn’t been ‘next in line’ along Singburi Tel: 8281 4801 (no. 593) food that the Elche Spanish restaurant has to offer Leytonstone High Road. Local people are often Swaad Tel: 8539 1700 (no. 715) vegetarians, though. Ruth adds that the African surprisedtohearthatwehaveAfrican,Nepaleseand restaurant menus – Garden City (Ghanaian/African- Lithuanian restaurants on our doorstep”. Tel: 8539 0747 (no. 639) The Maghreb/Golden Orient Caribbean) and Golden Key (African) – are centred Walnut Tree Tel: 8539 2526 (no. 857) around meat and fish but they’ll do their level best The Nosh Girls agree that their monthly meals are a to give any veggies a good feed. great way of trying different styles of cuisine. As Leytonstone Road, Stratford E15 Katy says: “I think we’re incredibly lucky to have such Golden Key Tel: 8534 0660 (no. 47) Katy very much enjoys lightly spiced Indian food. a diverse variety of restaurants in Leytonstone. There Lina Tel: 8534 6824 (no. 590) Her favourite Indian restaurants so far are the Star can’t be many High Roads where you can buy British, of India (where BARA members get a discount) and Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Lithuanian, Nepalese, Thailander Tel: 8534 2066 (no. 7) Golden Orient. She enjoyed the Thai restaurants too different African foods, Indian and Spanish almost – “the Singburi Thai Café, and the Thailander where every night. the food was delicious”. Katy wasn’t too keen on the
6 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 Sugar and spice and all things nice hristmas in the 16th century was, by all accounts, a splendid affair. Although Tudor England may not have had much to celebrate, given that over 300 people were burnt at the stake for heresy, during the reign of Mary I. However, with the coming of the new queen, CElizabeth I, England enjoyed a time of relative peace and prosperity. During the Elizabethan age, Christmas was the the highlight of To make Pyes, (please note: the following is in old English) the year, celebrated with the most luxurious and extravagant Pyes of mutton or beyfe must be fyne mynced and ceasoned feasts. For those who were able to afford it, goose or beef wyth pepper and salte, and a lyttle saffron to coloure, suet or were the traditional meats eaten on Christmas day. The origins marrow a good quantyte, a lyttle vyneger, prunes, greate raysins of turkey as a Christmas dish are unclear. It is most likely that and dates, take the fattest of the broathe of powdred beyfe, and it was introduced from the Americas, by European explorers yf you wyll have paeste royall, take butter and yolkes of egges and found its way onto English tables by the mid 16th and so tempre the flowre to make the paeste. century. Sugar was imported from the West and East Indies and was Christmas provided the opportunity for displays of wealth and used to create ‘sweetmeats’. One of the most luxurious status by the nobility. Food was spectacularly presented. sweetmeats was marchpane (marzipan), made from almonds Swans and peacocks were skinned and roasted, then replaced and sugar and moulded into the shape of exotic birds and in their skins and served with all the appearance of stuffed animals. birds. Food would usually be washed down by beer. Water was not The nobility and the royal court created dishes not only for considered fit to drink. Judging by the state of the Thames at their flavour but also to entertain and amaze. the time, this is not surprising. Rivers were used to dispose of sewage and rubbish. Outbreaks of the plague in 1563, meant A 16th century cook book, Epulario (Epulario, or The Italian floating corpses were not an uncommon sight. Hence beer Feast, London 1598), gives a recipe for baking a bird pie. A became the popular drink for rich and poor alike. pie shell is made and once the crust is cooked, a hole is cut in the bottom and live birds are placed inside. When the pie is Syllabub (hot, spiced milk, laced with wine or rum) was a cut, the birds fly out to the amazement of guests. popular festive drink. Mulled wine (hot wine, infused with spices and sweetened with sugar) was, and still is, a This recipe may be the origin of the famous nursery rhyme traditional Christmas beverage. “Sing a Song of Sixpence…” Black birds were regarded as a Eat drink and be merry! delicacy in medieval England and certainly fit for a king. Mulled wine Main dishes were followed by mince pies and plum porridge Serves 16 glasses (similar to Christmas pudding). Mince pies are seen in England 15 minutes to prepare, 40 minutes to cook as early as the 11th century. Traditionally pies contained Ingredients minced meat, usually mutton. Meat did not keep well, the 2 bottles of red wine only methods of preservation available were salting and ¼ bottle gin smoking. Fruit, sugar and spices were added to disguise the 75g seedless raisins taste of salty or smoked (and even rotting) meat. In Tudor 100g caster sugar times pies were made in the shape of a cradle, representing 8 whole cloves the manger of the Christ child. The government of Oliver 1 teaspoon cardamom seeds Cromwell banned this practice in the mid 17th century, as it 1 cinnamon stick was considered blasphemous. thinly pared rind of 2 lemons
A Proper Newe Booke of Cokerye, published in 1557, gives a Method recipe for mince pies. 1 take a large saucepan, pour in the wine, half the gin and add the other ingredients. s Are any of you brave enough to attempt the recipe? Let us 2 Heat gently and stir until the sugar dissolves, then bring know how you got on for the next issue. to the boil. 3 Turn the heat to the lowest setting, simmer gently for 30 minutes. Stir in remaining gin, reheat then serve immediately.
WINTER 2006 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE 7 drink
The Martini Cocktail revival The latest Bond film, Casino Royale, has revived the popularity of the Martini cocktail.
Since the release of the film, Tesco have
reported a 65% rise in sales of the Martini Photograph© Irina Tischenko FOTOLIA ingredient, dry white vermouth. Why shaken and not stirred? Vesper Martini James Bond usually orders a "vodka martini, “Vodka Martini, shaken not stirred”, was first Serves one shaken, not stirred". In the new Bond film, ordered, on screen, by Sean Connery in the 3 measures of Gordon’s gin Daniel Craig quotes from the Ian Fleming Dr No, film in 1962. 1 measure of vodka novel, ordering a “Vesper” Martini. half a measure of Kina Lillet (or dry white Shaking creates tiny bubbles, emulsifying the vermouth) "Just a moment. Three measures of Gordon's, oil and water content. This means that a one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. shaken martini is cloudy and less oily, which Add ingredients with ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake Shake it very well until it's ice-cold, then add a is said to improve the taste of the drink. well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish large thin slice of lemon-peel. Got it?" with a thin slice of lemon peel. Casino Royale, Ian Flemming (1953), Shaking is also said to increase the chapter 7 antioxidant content. Antioxidants are known Kir Royale to reduce the risk of cataracts, strokes and Serves one Kina Lillet, is a type of vermouth, made from heart diseases. 1 tsp Creme de Cassis wine, bitter orange liqueur and quinine. It 150ml chilled Champagne or sparkling white wine was a fashionable drink in the 1950’s, when Try a Bond themed party this New Year’s eve Fleming wrote the novel. The Duchess of and don’t forget to serve your martinis In a Champagne flute pour the Creme de Cassis. Windsor was very fond of the tipple. ‘shaken not stirred’. Pour in the Champagne or sparkling white wine. Stir until just blended. It is produced by a tiny French company, based near Bordeaux. Since the film's release, Cosmopolitan the company has been inundated with Serves one enquiries and orders from all over the world. 45ml vodka 30ml Cointreau For further information visit www.lillet.fr 30ml cranberry juice Dash fresh lime juice
Add ingredients to a cocktail mixer with cracked ice. Shake well and strain into a cocktail glass, garnish with a twist of lime. 8 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 food Shah, owner and head chef oftheStarofIndia,shares one of the classics, the samosa.
This authentic Indian snack is a perfect accompaniment to any Christmas, New Year or cocktail party.
Alo Samosa (vegetarian) Serves 8
Ingredients
For the pastry 280mg (10oz) flour ½ tsp salt 4 tbsp oil 4 tbsp water Method Pastry For the filling 1 Sift the flour and salt into a bowl. Add the 4 3 Knead the pastry dough again and divide it 4 tbsp oil tablespoons of oil and rub it in with your into eight balls. Keep 7 covered while you work 1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped fingers until the mixture resembles coarse with the eighth. Roll this ball out into an 18cm breadcrumbs. Slowly add about 4 tablespoons round. Cut it into half with a sharp, pointed 4-5 medium potatoes boiled in their jackets of water (or a tiny bit more) and gather the knife. Pick up one half and form a cone, and allowed to cool dough into a stiff ball. making a 5mm wide, and overlapping seam. 175g (7oz) shelled peas 2 Empty the ball out on to a clean work surface. Glue this seam together with a little water. 1tbsp finely grated, peeled fresh ginger Knead the dough for about 10 minutes or until 4 Fill the cone with about 2¼ tablespoons of the 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped it is smooth. Make a ball. Rub the ball with filling. Close the top of the cone by sticking about ¼ teaspoon oil and slip it into a plastic the open edges together with a little water; 3 fresh hot green chillies, finely chopped bag. Set aside for 30 minutes or longer. your seam should be about 5mm wide. Press 3 tbsp fresh coriander, very finely chopped the top seam down with the prongs of a fork or 3 tbsp water Filling flute it with your fingers. Make 7 more 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 Make the filling. Peel the potatoes and cut samosas. 1½ tsp salt them into 5mm dice. Heat 4 tablespoons oil in 5 Heat about 4-5 cm of oil for deep-frying over a a large frying pan over a medium flame. When medium-low flame. You may use a small, deep, 1 tsp ground coriander seeds hot, put in the onion. Stir and fry until brown frying pan for this or an Indian karhai (wok). 1 tsp garam masala at the edges. Add the peas, ginger, green chilli, When the oil is medium hot, put in as many 1 tsp ground roasted cumin seeds fresh coriander, and 3 tablespoons water. Cover, samosas as the pan will hold in a single layer. ½ tsp cayenne pepper lower heat and simmer until peas are cooked. Fry slowly, turning the samosas frequently until Oil for deep-frying Stir every now and then and add a little more they are golden brown and crisp. Drain on water if the frying pan appears to dry out. kitchen paper and serve hot, warm, or at room 2 Add the diced potatoes, salt, coriander seeds, temperature. garam masala, roasted cumin, cayenne, and lemon juice. Stir to mix. Cook on a low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring gently. Check balance of salt and lemon juice. You may want more of both. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool. WINTER 2006 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE 9 food
The Star of India boasts among its staff, two award winning chefs.
Our chefs pride themselves on offering top quality Photographs ©Greg King Indian food, cooked to order, using fresh ingredients. Lamb shank Rogan Josh style Lamb shank Rogan Josh style, is one of the most Serves 4 popular dishes at the restaurant. In India, this dish Marinade: is eaten at celebratory meals and special occasions. Ingredients 1 Blend the garlic and ginger into a paste in a It is a hearty, winter warmer and makes an food processor or blender. excellent Christmas supper. Marinade ingredients 2 Mix the garlic and ginger paste together with 1½cm piece root ginger the flour, chilli powder, yogurt, salt, nutmeg “Rogan josh is one of those classic Indian dishes 4 cloves of garlic and the vegetable oil. Rub the marinade into which have many interpretations. This is my version 2 tbsp plain flour the lamb shanks and refrigerate for about 20 and it's fantastic! I like to use meat on the bone ¼ tsp chilli powder minutes. such as lamb shanks. The bones add flavour to the 300ml plain yogurt Pot mix dish while the lamb slow cooks until tender. Serve ½ tsp nutmeg 1 Take a large pan and add 1 tbsp vegetable oil with a green salad or with pilau rice, for a delicious ½ tsp salt just to cover the bottom. Then add the sliced Christmas supper.” 1 tbsp vegetable oil onions, green chillies, salt, half the coriander, Shah Ahmed, head chef and owner. garlic, celery, crushed tomatoes, cardamom Pot ingredients pods, cloves, bay leaves and cinnamon stick. 4 lamb shanks Cover and cook for about 10 minutes on a slow 3 tbsp mixed curry powder heat, stirring every so often. 2 large onions, thinly sliced 2 Add the water, cover and leave on a slow heat. 3 cardamom pods 3 Heat the remaining 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a 5 whole green chillies saucepan until hot. Fry the marinated lamb 1½cm cinnamon stick shanks for about 3 minutes until golden brown. 4 bay leaves Remove the shanks from the saucepan and add hand full of fresh coriander to the other ingredients in the large pan. 1½cm piece root ginger Continue cooking on a slow heat for about an 4 cloves of garlic hour, stirring every so often. If the pan begins 2 crushed tomatoes, with juice to dry out, add a little water. 5 tomatoes cut into wedges 4 Add the mixed curry powder and the remaining 4 celery sticks, chopped coriander. Continue to cook on a slow heat for 3 tbsp vegetable oil a further hour, stirring every so often. Again, if 250ml water the pan begins to dry out, add a little water. 6 Now add the tomatoes cut into wedges. Stir and cook for a further 3 or 4 minutes. 7 Your shanks are now ready to eat. Serve with side dishes such as Sag aloo and Tomato ponir.
10 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE AUTUMN 2006 Win a meal for two worth £30 Congratulations to Clare Siggins from Leytonstone and Mrs S Griffiths Word search from Wanstead, last issues winner’s Hidden in the grid are 12 Christmas related words. Find all the words to be in with a chance (see left for solution). The response of winning a meal for two, courtesy of the Star of India restaurant. Good luck! was overwhelming, so we decided to have two winners. Y E S T N E S E R P Send your completed word search by the 31 January 2007, to: E U Z A P Q O N T U The Star magazine, 875 High Road, Leytonstone, London E11 1HR K H C E N T N U S D Name R M O S E T R C U D
U P W L S O A E S I Address
T V S A L R I H E N
P I E S O Y U V J G Contact telephone number M F Y L I M A F U B Last issue’s answers: chapati, chef, cook, curry, kitchen, nan, pan, restaurant, rice, tandori, tea, training.
Considering Happy Christmas from The Star of India. advertising in Thank you for your continued the Star? support. There are 25,000 good reasons why Christmas opening times:
advertising with the Star makes sense. We are pleased to announce that The Star of India is open throughout the coming festive period, except for Christmas 25,000 copies are distributed across Waltham Forest Day. bi-monthly. Imagine how many people you could Parties are always welcome, call us to discuss your reach? It’s easy, just give us a call. requirements on 020 8989 4028 Tel: 020 8989 4028 or email us at [email protected]
We offer a professional advertisement design service, alternatively, you can supply your own artwork. The deadline for inclusion in the next issue is 28 February 2007.
WINTER 2006 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE 11 spice of life Discover the medicine cabinet in your kitchen cupboard Photograph © Edyta Pawlowska Ayurvedic doctors in India have used spices for centuries, their Hot stuff motto is “Let food be thy medicine”. Calling all curry fans, there are Ayurveda pronounced eye-yer-vay-duh, is a Sanskrit word that means ”the science of lifespan”. this Indian method of healing, is regarded as the oldest existing medical system, dating back now even more reasons to enjoy over 4,000 years. Ayurvedic medicine considers the body, mind and spirit equally and seeks to restore a harmonious balance between all three within the individual. a tikka masala. The spices used Colds and coughs A Hangover cure in Indian food really can help For a winter cold, crush a large piece of ginger root Slice a large ginger root and boil in 250ml of water and squeeze out the juice. Add a pinch of powdered for five minutes. Add honey to taste and drink protect the body against cardamom to the juice and mix in a teaspoon of warm. Drink plenty of water as hangovers are often honey. Eat with a spoon or add to hot water for a caused by dehydration. disease. Where would we be soothing drink. Cuts and grazes without the humble chilli? For sinus congestion, try one tablespoon of honey Turmeric is known for its antiseptic and disinfectant with ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon powder or a properties. Try turmeric to treat cuts and grazes. Chilli power cinnamon stick, mixed in 250ml of hot water. Drink Wash the area in water and dust with turmeric. • An average chilli contains 100mg warm. Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder is of vitamin C, which exceeds the said to strengthen the immune system and protect Sore feet daily recommended amount against bacteria and viral attacks. To soothe sore feet after all that seasonal shopping, • one chilli contains twice as much boil a teaspoon of mustard seeds and a teaspoon of vitamin C as an orange Indigestion lovage seeds in a large pan of water for 10 minutes. • capsaicin, the heat giving chemical Hot cumin tea is great for the relief of indigestion Allow the water to cool until it reaches a in chilli, is a natural decongestant and bloating. Try some if you over indulge in rich comfortable temperature, fill a basin and then soak • chilli is a natural pain reliever foods this Christmas. your feet. as it stimulates the brain to produce endorphins To make a cup of cumin tea, boil a teaspoon of Toothache • chilli contains high levels of cumin seeds in 500ml of water for five minutes. To relieve toothache, crush four or five cloves in a vitamins A and E Add honey to taste and drink warm. little hot water and apply directly to the affected • chilli is a good source of potassium, Cumin also contains iron which plays an important tooth with a cotton bud. Cloves contain eugenol, a beta-carotene and folic acid. part in keeping the immune system healthy. chemical that is an effective local anaesthetic. Cloves also contain salicylic acid, the active ingredient of aspirin.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. 12 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 It is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. …that’s handy
Real Christmas tree recycling Last Christmas postal dates Friday 8 December Africa, Australia, Caribbean, Far East, South & Central America, Middle East and New Zealand Monday 11 December Canada, Eastern Europe, Japan and USA Wednesday 13 December Western Europe, Saturday 16 December Second class post Tuesday 19 December First class post Take your tree to a Recycling Request a special collection Use your Brown Bin centre Call 020 8496 3000 before Monday If you are in the green waste Kings Road Recycling Centre, 8 January 2007. collection scheme, you can use your Chingford, E4 Trees will be collected between brown bin to dispose of your tree. South Access Household Waste and Monday 8 & Friday 12 January 2007. Recycling Centre, Walthamstow, E17 This Christmas tree collection will not Please ensure the tree is cut into Leyton Reuse and Recycling, count as one of your three free manageable pieces so that the lid SOME USEFUL CONTACTS Leyton, E10 special collections for large items will close. For further information call 020 8496 3000 or visit www.walthamforest.gov.uk NHS Direct Health information in one place. Search for a GP surgery, dentist or pharmacy in your area. Refuse collection for Christmas and New Year Tel: 0845 4647 Web: www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk NORMAL COLLECTION DAY REVISED COLLECTION DAY Waltham Forest Direct Monday 25 December 2006 Tuesday 26 December 2006 Open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Tuesday 26 December 2006 Wednesday 27 December 2006 Tel: 020 8496 3000 Web: www.walthamforest.gov.uk Wednesday 27 December 2006 Thursday 28 December 2006 Email: [email protected] Normal collection service Thursday 28 December 2006 Friday 29 December 2006 resumes from Monday 8 Libraries opening times January 2007. Friday 29 December 2006 Saturday 30 December 2006 All libraries will be closed from 5.00pm on Green Waste collections will be Saturday 23 December 2006 and will re-open on Monday 1 January 2007 Tuesday 2 January 2007 made a day later than your Tuesday 2 January 2007 at 9.30am, with the usual collection day during this following exceptions: Tuesday 2 January 2007 Wednesday 3 January 2007 holiday period. Walthamstow, Leytonstone and North Chingford Wednesday 3 January 2007 Thursday 4 January 2007 For further information contact: libraries will open on Wednesday 27, Waltham Forest Direct on Thursday 28 and Friday 29 December, Thursday 4 January 2007 Friday 5 January 2007 020 8496 3000 or email from 10.00am until 4.00pm. Friday 5 January 2007 Saturday 6 January 2007 [email protected] Check library website for further details http://libraries.walthamforest.gov.uk SAFER NEIGHBOURHOODS TEAMS
In an emergency always Dial 999 FREE HOME FIRE SAFETY CHECKS Safer Neighbourhoods teams are local police teams, responsible for day to day policing. The full list of Waltham Forest Safer Neighbourhoods teams can be found at www.met.police.uk Statistics complied by the Government and The Fire Brigade show that you are more Forest Leytonstone Leyton likely to die in a fire during the months of Sgt Leigh Galilee Sgt Colin Parker Sgt Jonathan Clack December and January than at any other PCSO Thomas Appiah Pc Lesley Beale PC Ozder Erduran time. The Fire Brigade are offering free home PCSO Ethelin Dodson Pc Brian Howey PC Melina Chodda fire safety checks in your borough. They will PCSO Douglas Claxton Pcso Jahangir Hussain PCSO Debi Moss also fit a free smoke alarm where needed. Pcso Richard Cracknell PCSO Jon Barclay Leytonstone Police Station PCSO Azhar Choudhry Itʼs simple to arrange a free home check. 470 High Road, Leytonstone, E11 3HN Leytonstone Police Station Call free on 08000 28 44 28 or email 470 High Road, Leytonstone, E11 3HN Leyton Police Station [email protected] Contact 215 Francis Road, Leyton, E10 6NJ or fax a request to 020 7587 4222 Tel: 020 8721 2645 or Contact 07920 233818 Tel: 020 8345 2522 or Contact For further information go to Email: [email protected] 07766 442713 Tel: 020 8721 2037 or www.london-fire.gov.uk Email: [email protected] 07843 291117 Email: [email protected]
WINTER 2006 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE 13 focus on…
There are many excellent Take a trip to the Orient Long term supporter and local resident community projects and Brian Hopson introduces us to the Orient... groups in Waltham Forest, One of the good things about living in Leytonstone is they welcome the support the range of leisure opportunities we have available. We’ve also got loads of restaurants, pubs, the forest… and help of local people. we can even have fun trying to cross the High Road on a busy Saturday night. The opportunities are almost endless… Theo, the club’s mascot But we can’t just spend time enjoying ourselves, can we? We need to put something back to show our I’ve seen them fall to the bottom of the pile of the old Coming soon gratitude for all the good things around us. We need Fourth Division, get promoted and get relegated again. South Leytonstone Area Development to do something which carries with it the possibility Last season, after 11 years in the basement division, Association (SLADA) of suffering as a form of penance for the enjoyment the O’s got promoted to the heights of League 1 – now SLADA is a newly formed regeneration charity, run of a wonderful mushroom biryani. But what to do? they are currently bottom of that division, staring by local volunteers. As local residents are aware, The wearing of hair shirts has gone out of fashion relegation in the face. That’s the point! How boring it Cann Hall and Cathall wards in Leytonstone have (unless you’re a devotee of the Da Vinci Code, of must be to support Arsenal or Chelsea or Manchester had their problems. There is significant deprivation, course). The watching of Big Brother or any other United. There, victory is what’s expected, week after including bad housing, unemployment and reality shows on television, might just qualify as the week. Winning is no big thing but if they lose – relatively high crime rates. Life expectancy intellectual equivalent of self flagellation. disaster! At the O's, however, we expect nothing. We statistics say it all – if you live in these wards, you Alternatively, you could try to understand why can treat defeat, that old impostor, with equanimity. A are likely to die five years earlier than those living councils attack motorists, through speed humps, draw? Wonderful! When we win, it’s a feeling almost to in Chingford wards. cameras which distract drivers and by making parking compare with that first bite of a balti aloo garlic next to impossible. bhuna on a cold Saturday evening. Over the last few years, both Waltham Forest Council and the local community have worked All of these are just too gloomy. We don’t want to do So, if you feel that things are almost too good and are together to turn things around. The wards have things which will only make us miserable. We must looking for a way of regaining some perspective, don’t recently benefited from the Neighbourhood Renewal strike a balance. We need to find a way of saying give up those Star of India evenings. Put some Fund and are now an integral part of the council’s thanks for the good things without completely suffering back into your life – get along to Brisbane Better Neighbourhoods Initiative. Both wards now excluding the possibility of having a bit of fun. Road to see how the other half live. have their own Better Neighbourhoods manager, Helen Bridle. Here is a suggestion. The best way of suffering whilst Join Theo, the club’s mascot and retaining a glimmer of hope that something good support The O’s The Neighbourhood Renewal Fund promises might come out of it, is to support Leyton Orient. At The O’s supporters club is the official Supporters Club hundreds of thousands of pounds of investment the O’s, you’re guaranteed just about the perfect of Leyton Orient. The club has excellent facilities at its over the next couple of years, to fund initiatives balance between happiness and depression. I write as newly opened premises West Stand. such as raising standards in schools, cutting a long term O’s season ticket holder, cigarette smoking and other specific issues For further details go to www.leytonorient.com affecting the local community. I’ve seen the O’s play in the Premiership (then called the first Division) - and get relegated after one season. The key to these changes is collaboration and They got to the semi-finals of the FA Cup – and lost. partnership.
There are already some great examples on the Leyton swimming club The club has won: ground. The new Acacia Playpark was planned by Graded League 16 times in the last 18 years. Graded Points 12 times in the last 16 years. the community with assistance from Peter Sandy, a Leyton SC was established in 1911. Swimmers trained at Mini League for the last 3 years. local consultant, and features a Giants Head, Cathall Road old pool. This was demolished and replaced designed and built by Eden Project artist, Peter by Cathall Leisure Centre in 1977. Leyton swimming The Club’s only funding comes from membership fees Hill. In Harrow Road Park, the same team has pool was opened in 1934 and the club did most of their and fund-raising events. All coaches, assistants and installed The Sea Bass, a 30ft ‘Yorkshire Cobble’, training here. This was a 40-yard pool and in the committee members provide their time free of charge. rescued from Canvey Island and transformed by 1950’s, televised galas were broadcast from here. Neil Sponsorship has helped provide shirts with a team logo adventure playground expert, John O’Driscoll. In Harper, a member of Leyton swimming club, went on to tosquadswimmersaswellascontributingtothecosts each of these cases, local residents have got swim at Millfields and became Captain of the Olympic of important annual events. I would be grateful for any together, found expert assistance and turned their Team in the 1990’s. offers of support for this club to continue the work that ideas into reality. we do and the opportunities it provides for local Today, Leyton SC is a small, friendly club offering young children. We announce the names of any sponsors on children from all sections of the community, the Anyone interested in SLADA should contact our programmes, which are distributed to all spectators opportunity to learn and improve their swimming skills. Nick Tiratsoo, SLADA’s chair, on 020 8555 6623 or attending home galas at Cathall Road Leisure Centre. email [email protected] The club swims in the Essex League, East London mini League, North London graded League & Open Galas. The club meets on Fridays at 8pm at Older members swim on the Masters. Helen Bridle can be contacted on 020 8496 4488 or Cathall Leisure Centre. email [email protected] Paul Golightly, Chairman Leyton Swimming Club.
14 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 "My congratulations go out to all involved in these outstanding schools and early years settings, for their success in delivering schools such a high standard of education and care. I am delighted to recognise their achievement and pay tribute to their work.” Christine Gilbert, head of Ofsted, comments on Waltham Forest schools.
Children’s education is important to all Christmas really is for the children – and the child in all of us! By John Harold, of us Deputy Head Jenny Hammond Primary School Each issue of the Star will take a Spend November and December in a school and you’ll understand and look at initiatives and activities appreciate what that really means! At at local schools. Get in touch Jenny Hammond Primary School, with us, let us know what your celebrations begin in earnest this week school is up to and if you need with the rehearsals for the school any support. production of “The Star Inn”.
The youngest children in the school will be learning The school Christmas bazaar will be held on Saturday The government doesn’t pay for songs and a script, to tell the story of the Nativity in 9 December with a guest appearance by Father everything that schools need. Whilst a new way. Deputy Head, John Harold, wrote the Christmas and his little helpers. There are also Parent Teacher Associations (PTA’s) do a music for this production and his friend and ex- Christmas meals to be planned and cooked for the colleague Sue Lavery (George Tomlinson Primary staff and children. great job and have much success raising School), wrote the libretto and script. funds, they need support from local The performance by the school choir at the switching businesses and the community. There are The show was a huge success when it was first on of the Leytonstone Christmas lights (November many ways of supporting schools, performed in December 2005 and with the creative 30), was a great success. The choir sung carols and including sponsorship, fund-raising team at Jenny Hammond designing this production, modern Christmas songs. It was a really magical it will truly be a sight to behold. event, particularly when the lights were switched on events, donations, and providing prizes and Leytonstone took on a special Christmassy glow! for school fairs. This is a really good and The older children in Key Stage 2 will also be staging easy way to contribute to your local their own production to celebrate Christmas in a As if all that wasn’t enough, just before Christmas, community. more modern way. The script for this is tightly under on December 14, the school will be hosting a ‘Quiz wraps at the moment and I can’t give too much and Curry Evening’. The quiz will have a Christmas away. I will say that it’s going to be fun and theme and will be for adults only. Teams of no more Get involved see how you can help. If enjoyable for everyone! The next few weeks will be than eight can play to win fabulous prizes and there you have any ideas but don’t know what extremely busy for the whole school. There is a will be a raffle. Team players can bring their own to do next, contact the Star. theatre trip planned for the older children to see drinks. “The Lion King”. Tickets cost £5 and must be booked in advance by calling the school office on 020 8519 3977.
The evening captured the atmosphere of the East. Wanstead High school is currently raising funds to An ‘Arabian Night’ to remember There was a mini-souk selling all manner of arts, complete their new dance centre. The centre will be crafts and clothing, including authentic belly available for use by the community and any Putting the fun back into fund-raising dancing outfits and accessories. financial help is very welcome.
On 18 November, guests enjoyed an ‘Arabian The main event was a stage show based on stories Please contact Valerie Taylor (PTA) for further from “1001 Arabian Nights”, complete with the details on 020 8989 2791. Wanstead High School Night’ out, a fund raising event organised by Sultan’s palace, Sinbad and his boat and a visit from PTA can be contacted on their website at Snakey Sue who mesmerised guests with a snake www.wansteadhigh.co.uk Valerie Taylor of Wanstead High School PTA. dance performed with real live snakes. The evening was beautifully rounded off with a belly dance The Epping Forest Conservation Volunteers are a performance. Delicious food was on offer supplied volunteer group actively involved in the bytheStarofIndia. conservation and management of Epping Forest.
Valerie told us “the night was great fun and raised They have over 25 years experience in conservation over £650 for Wanstead High School PTA and the work in Epping Forest. You can find out more about Epping Forest Conservation Volunteers”. the valuable work they do by visiting their website at http://efcv.uel.ac.uk
WINTER 2006 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE 15 Kingswood, Upper Leytonstone Residents Association meeting 30 January 2007 at 7.30pm
United Free Church, corner of Diary Wallwood Road and Fairlop Road, E11 If you would an event listed in this section, For further details call Shah please contact us on 020 8989 4028 or on 07940 702 951 email us at [email protected]
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Children's Christmas event - The Tinder Box PANTOMIMES Civic Carol Services Sunday 17 December, doors open 1.30pm, The Woodhouse Players present Thursday 14 December, 7.00pm onwards. show starts 2.00pm. Ali Baba and the Four Tea Leaves The concert features students from six of the The Tinder Box is based on the Hans Christian 28, 29 & 30 December and 6 January 2007 borough’s primary schools performing classic Anderson fairy tale. Mr and Mrs Bubbles and friends Shows at 7.30pm and also 3.00pm on Saturdays. Christmas carols, as well as readings and in a hilarious, musical adventure with singing, The Woodhouse Players presents the panto that performances from choirs, bands and adult soloists. dancing, magic and lots of audience participation. takes you to the East (of London that is!) The event is in aid of this year’s Suitable for ages 3+ and the entire family. The Welsh Church Hall (opposite O'Neills), Mayor’s Charity. Waltham Forest Theatre, Lloyd Park, Walthamstow, Leytonstone High Road, Leytonstone, London E11 Walthamstow Assembly Hall, Forest Road, London E17 5EH Tickets: £6/£3(concs) Walthamstow, London E17 4SY Tickets: £5 Tickets, advance booking only on 020 8504 3872 Tickets: £3 and can be obtained through the Call: 020 8496 3587 or visit www.woodhouseplayers.co.uk Mayor’s office. Enquiries: 020 8496 4399 ENVIRONMENT Snow White and the Seven Dwarves Brooks Farm Millfield Theatre Quiz and Curry Evening Leyton's own City farm with a collection of 6 December–7January2007 Jenny Hammond Primary School animals including sheep, pigs, goats, chickens, Princess Snow White lives in The Palace with her Thursday December 14, 7.00pm. calves, rabbits Shetland ponies and llamas. evil stepmother, the Queen. She is made to work Teams of eight play to win great prizes. There will Tuesday to Sunday (and Bank Holidays) her fingers to the bone... get ready to hiss and also be a raffle. Bring your own drinks. The quiz will November - March 9.30am - 4.30pm boo. Starring Leila Birch and Millfield favourite have a Christmas theme, for adults only. April - October 10.30am - 5.30pm Simon Fielding. Jenny Hammond School, The farm is a unique facility that's educational, Silver Street, Edmonton, London, N18 1PJ Worsley Road, Leytonstone, E11 3JF interesting and fun for both children and Tel: 020 8807 6680 Tickets: £5, must be booked in advance adults alike. Web: www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk call 020 8519 3977 The Farm is closed on Mondays each week (except Bank Holidays), and for lunch 12.30pm-1.30pm. Cinderella Christmas Family Workshops Admission free to Waltham Forest residents. Hackney Empire Victorian Board Games – Drop-in Workshops (Out of borough group users £1 per person) 1 December – 13 January 2007 Saturday 16 December, Brooks Farm, Skeltons Lane Park, London E10 5BS The Hackney Empire's biggest panto yet. 11.00am - 12.30pm (last admission 12 noon) Tel: 020 8539 4278 291 Mare Street, London E8 1EJ 2.30pm - 4.00pm (last admission 3.30pm) Tel: 020 8985 2424 (box office) Visit the Vestry House Museum and have fun Lee Valley Bird Watching and Wildlife Fair 2007 Web: www.hackneyempire.co.uk learning about the history and rules of various 17 and 18 February, 9.30am – 4.00pm popular and forgotten Victorian board games. There will be expert and celebrity speakers, The Snow Queen Design, make and take home your very own unique marquees with art, books, clothing and optics Theatre Royal Stratford East game board along with colourful counters and dice. stands, a bird-ringing demonstration and regular 25 November – 13 January 2007 Please note: The use of dice and small counters guided bird watching walks around 70 Acres Lake A new version of the classic story by Hans Christian make this workshop unsuitable for children under 3 and the Park Farm. Andersen. years of age. Refreshments will be available. Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford, London, E15 1BN Vestry House Museum, Lee Valley Regional Park Visitor Centre, Tel: 0800 183 1188 (freephone ticket line) or Vestry Road, Walthamstow, London, E17 9NH Lee Valley Park Farm, Stubbins Hall Lane, Crooked 020 8534 0310 Tickets: £2 per child. Mile, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EG. Web: www.stratfordeast.com Tel: 020 8509 1917 Tickets: £6 with all events free (under 16s go free). Email: [email protected] For further information contact the Dick Whittington Visitor Centre on 01992 702200. Woodford Operatic & Dramatic Society Christmas Party Time proudly presents its 46th Pantomime Saturday 16 December, 8.00pm Great Garden Birdwatch 5 – 12 January 2007 Featuring the cockney duo Chas & Dave, with Small Saturday 27 January, 10.00am – 1.00pm By Stephen Duckham Change the Blues Band. As part of RSPB Great Garden Birdwatch, we will be Sir James Hawkey Hall, Broadmead Road, Walthamstow Assembly Hall, setting up feeding stations. Come along and learn Woodford Green, Essex Forest Road, Walthamstow, London E17 4SY about the birds using local parks and gardens. Tickets: £9.50 (Thursday - Sunday) Book now for your office party, group bookings Meet at St Peters-in-the-Forest churchyard, Tickets: £9.00 (Monday - Wednesday) welcome. Forest Rise, Walthamstow, London E17 Mon-Fri evening 7:30pm Tickets: £25 (off Woodford New Road). Saturday & Sunday matinée 1:00pm Call: 08700 600 100 for tickets or visit Tickets: Free event, all welcome. Evening 5:30pm www.ticketweb.co.uk to book online. For further information contact Parking for 200 cars Jez Elkin on 020 8496 6019 Buses Woodford High Road 20/179/W13/N5 Woodford Tube: 275/501/549 Tel: 020 8505 4069 (box office)
16 THE STAR OF INDIA MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 London Borough Of Waltham Forest “BIGGEST RANGE George Tomlinson Primary School OF BRANDED PERFUMES AND AFTERSHAVES” Vernon Road, Leytonstone, London E11 4QU scentsation Telephone: 020 8539 3577 Perfumery & Gifts SITE SERVICES OFFICER (Scale 4) save up to Ref: CS/27/06/JC Salary: £17,787 - 19,635 (Inclusive Of London Weighting) 50% on To Work – 36 Hours P/W, Between 6.00am – 6.00pm. Are You The Person We Are Looking For? genuine designer • Cleaning • Site maintenance and decoration fragrances • Security • Porterage & aftershaves* • Ground maintenance • Health and safety buy online • Line management of a small cleaning team www.scent-sation.co.uk It is essential that you have a flexible approach, a high degree of or call our sales team motivation and you will be fully committed to working in a school 020 8558 3283 environment. You will be required to show initiative and promote a 0208 556 6071 positive image of the school through your work.
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I have lived in the Wanstead area for the best part of thirty years,and have been painting pet portraits for the local residents for a good many of those years.I offer a complete service,from helping to choose the best pose,to completing the portrait,framing,if required,and final delivery.
I try to capture the character and personality of the pet,and I think this reflects in the finished portrait.All of my clients have been absolutely delighted with their portraits,without exception,and all portraits are fully guaranteed;if you are not totally satisfied,you don’t pay.
Pet portraits make an ideal gift to a loved one or relative,to mark a wedding,a show success,or a memento to a lost or departed pet,which can be anything from a horse to a hamster,and all I require are (ideally!) several clear photos of the pet,from which a favourite pose can be chosen. Martin Joyce 1 Spratt Hall Road,Wanstead,London E11 2RQ 020 8989 2990 or 07957 301374 [email protected] To: Patricia Hewitt MP, Secretary of State for Health, The Department of Health, Richmond House, 79 Whitehall, London SW1A 2NS
Dear Patricia Hewitt,
I support a high quality, modern health service for Waltham Forest
A large borough as complex and diverse as Waltham Forest with high levels of poverty, needs a modern local health service. To that end, I support the need for maintaining Whipps Cross Hospital in Waltham Forest.
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(To be delivered on my behalf by the Star of India restaurant) Complete and return the card to The Star of India, 875 High Road, Leytonstone, London E11 1HR web www.starofindiauk.com email [email protected]
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