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Free Sept 2020, No. 66 WALTHAM Email [email protected] Facebook /WalthamForestEcho Instagram @walthamforestecho Tweet @WFEcho FOREST ECHO Visit walthamforestecho.co.uk Features News Photography Column Arts & Culture How an anti-violence Concern over New project shines a Michelle Edwards scores Introducing a new design campaign is helping opportunities for local light on the borough's a victory in her quest for trail connecting creativity, young people thrive market traders Pakistani community council transparency stories and activism P . 5 P . 6 P . 9 P . 11 P . 12 Justice for Magnificent mural murdered Michelle ustice has finally been served for the man who raped and murdered a woman in a Jplayground – eleven years following the brutal attack. Aman Vyas, 36, was found guilty of killing and raping 35-year-old Michelle Sama- raweera in Queens Road in May 2009, in addition to the rape of three other women in the weeks leading up to the murder. All the offences took place in Waltham- stow over a two-month period. The decade-long Metropolitan Police investigation to catch and convict Vyas was described by its lead detective as “extraordinary” and “remarkable”. He was sen- A ROW OF shops in High Road has been brightened up by East artist Camille Walala, in with prolific street art group Wood Street Walls, local cafe Deeney's tenced to 37 years in prison at and animation studio Mighty Elk. The work was supported by a £40,000 crowdfunder, while the mural also used recycled paint from Forest Recycling Project. Credit Penny Dampier Croydon Crown Court last month. Walthamstow MP Stella Creasy said: “We never gave up. We Flight relief as airport expansion paused demanded justice for Michelle. Eleven years on, we have it.” of the airport, including an had to bow to the inevitable. its long-term prospects. He For the full story visit the by James Cracknell extension to its only terminal “It relies heavily on business pas- said: “Completing the terminal Echo website at walthamforest building, could have seen up sengers and unless they come back extension and new east pier very echo.co.uk. ampaigners against to twice as many flights taking it could continue to struggle. For much remains part of our future The Echo is free for everyone. As a climate change and off each year. Business travel- residents it means relief from the and, with the foundations for not-for-profit, we need your support air and noise pollu- lers from London's financial noise that was blighting their lives.” both in place, we stand ready to stay that way. If you would like to tion in the borough districts make up a significant Local campaigner Meera Chadha to take those projects forward support our publisher WFWellComm are celebrating after London chunk of its custom and the said: “Let's hope the airport uses when demand returns. with a one-off donation scan this QR C code with your PayPal app: City Airport announced it was airport's operating company the opportunity to review the need “In the months ahead we will postponing its expansion plans. has responded to passenger to grow flight numbers.” work with airlines and govern- Waltham Forest is one of the demand falling “well below The airport's target had been ment to help restore confidence worst-affected boroughs in Lon- normal” since the coronavirus to increase flight numbers from to the UK aviation market.” don for overflying planes thanks lockdown by pausing expansion the current 84,000 per year to Waltham Forest Council has to its position directly under- until “confidence is restored”. 151,000 by 2035. Some parts of long opposed the airport's expan- neath the Newham airport's John Stewart, chair of the the expansion had already been sion. Deputy leader Clyde Loakes main flightpath, with residents HACAN East campaign group, completed prior to the pan- said: “It is surely common sense long locked in battle with avia- told the Echo: “This is a big blow demic, such as building eight to finally abandon these clearly tion bosses over various proposals to London City Airport. It had new aircraft stands, and chief unpopular plans as we concen- to expand and allow more flights. been hoping to grow significantly executive Robert Sinclair said trate on the immediate health and The latest £500million upgrade over the next few years. But it has he “remained confident” about wellbeing of our residents.” 2 No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO COMMENT Campaigning to protect hospital beds Eva Turner wants to ensure the new meets local needs England has fallen from 110,000 land sale of parts of the Whipps FELLOWSHIP IS LIFE to 100,000 over the last ten years. Cross site is taking place, with This time last year the govern- new homes set to be built there. SEPT 2020 – No. 66 ment promised to spend £2.7bil- Residents in Waltham Forest, Waltham Forest Echo is lion on building six hospitals, one Redbridge and beyond com- the borough's free being the new Whipps Cross. No pletely depend on Whipps Cross community newspaper. exact figure was given for each to provide NHS services for the We publish monthly and one, but the funding equated to whole community. We know distribute 10,000 free copies £450million per hospital. Barts that our beloved old Victorian of each issue – and we will continue to do so later submitted revised plans for hospital does not now meet the during the ongoing the rebuild of Whipps Cross, requirements of our growing public health crisis which haven't yet been made population and we welcome the public. But we do know which proposal for a new hospital. Publisher But the great risk is that Barts David Floyd will decide to build fewer beds. Editor "The great risk Whipps Cross is also planned James Cracknell to become a centre of excel- Designer is that Barts lence for the care of frail and Jonathan Duncan will decide elderly people – but there is a Head of Advertising danger that the new hospital’s Klaudia Kiss to build designation for geriatric care could see some other surgical Head of Operations Parts of Whipps Cross Hospital pre-date the founding of the NHS fewer beds" specialisms disappear. Paige Ballmi We've scrutinised the Barts Engagement Manager he Covid-19 pandemic plans in May, it suggested there assessment the plan is based on. plans carefully. They are pur- Penny Dampier has starkly highlighted would be 50-60 fewer beds at A recently-published health and suing an untested, aspirational Contributors that having sufficient Whipps Cross (based on a likely care services strategy maintains strategy that doesn't take into Eva Turner, Nupur Trivedi, hospital capacity is 67% success rate for its commu- that new care models in the com- account the underfunding of Charlotte Pyatt, Carla Pianese, Tvital for our community. nity care model, the report sug- munity will reduce the volume community resources, nor the David O'Driscoll, Esther Freeman, Before the pandemic, Whipps gested 525 beds were needed at of A&E attendances, emergency fact that older people in hospital Marcia Veiga, Victoria Munro, Cross Hospital was running the new hospital, down from 586 admissions, and average length of take longer to treat. Although Alisha Dar, Jo Sealy, Michelle at between 98% and 99% bed as at late 2019). That's despite stays in hospital. Organisational Barts say they will “refresh” the Edwards, Lawrence Walker, Alice occupancy, sometimes with no East London having the fastest improvements are said to reduce assumptions in the plans, the Acreman, Hilary Powell, free beds. National Institute population growth in the capital. the need for patients to be admit- direction of travel is clear; a new Danial Edelstyn, Jim Nicols for Health and Care Excellence Since the start of 'austerity' in ted, as well as their length of stay. hospital with fewer beds. The member organisations (NICE) guidance states that once 2010, the NHS has been under- This is being used by Barts as part We are now building a community- of WFWellComm CIC are: bed occupancy goes above 90%, funded and under-resourced, of the justification for reduced wide campaign to ensure that we Community Transport Waltham increased infections, re-admis- with more finances being diverted bed numbers, despite no informa- have a big enough general hospital Forest, Social Spider CIC, HEET. sions and mortality are likely. It to the private sector instead. tion or evaluation of our current with an adequate number of beds, WFWellComm CIC Board: is fair to describe Whipps Cross Hospital beds are expensive, so community health services. plus a 24/7 accident and emer- David Floyd (Social Spider CIC) as an overstretched hospital. the focus of planning has been to Key to all this is that the fund- gency department. Please join us Tom Ruxton (HEET) Yet when Barts Health NHS promote better health services in ing promised by the government and help campaign for a better Helen Tredoux Trust, which runs the Leyton- the community, to help keep peo- is not going to be enough to Whipps Cross. (Community Transport WF) stone hospital, released a pub- ple out of hospital. The number fund the entire hospital redevel- For more information: lic update of its redevelopment of general acute hospital beds in opment. To raise more funds, a Email [email protected] Contact Call 020 8521 7956 Email [email protected] Post The Mill, 7 - 11 Coppermill Lane, Walthamstow E17 7HA Back to school Advertising had on the most disadvantaged she begins preparing for GCSEs. latest data on coronavirus cases An introduction from pupils. Some children are fortu- Let's hope schools are able to in the borough. You can access Call 07732 000 430 editor James Cracknell Email [email protected] nate to have had online lessons, return safely and children can this at walthamforest.gov.uk/ a parent who can stay at home to get their education back on content/covid-19-data-dashboard. ello and welcome to school them, or even private tui- track, but local lockdowns have In the paper this month, on Issue 66 of Waltham tion, while other children have been necessary in other parts of Page 5 an anti-violence campaign HForest Echo. had none of these things – some the UK this summer and while is turning heads in its mission to Children are returning to may not even have a computer London has avoided this fate help young people thrive, on Page schools this month and while to work on. This has undoubt- so far, we can take nothing for 11 our regular columnist Michelle the risk of spreading coronavi- edly worsened inequality and I granted. Just as the Echo went Edwards scores a victory in her

Waltham Forest Echo is a member of rus remains a very real threat, know that my own step-daugh- to press Waltham Forest Council long-running battle to win greater IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor of The Press. For more information it is one that must be weighed ter, whose school has not been launched a very useful Covid-19 council transparency, and on Page on the Echo’s complaints policy and against the impact that several running any online classes, has dashboard on its website which 14 Jim Nichols looks ahead to the how to make a complaint visit: walthamforestecho.co.uk/complaints months of lost schooling has suffered a huge setback just as enables residents to monitor the return of football at Brisbane Road. No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 3 Features How an anti-violence campaign NEWS is helping young people thrive P . 5

Harmony Hall Community kitchens cook on fresh appeal has been launched to save Har- Businesses such as Old Sta- mony Hall, the Waltham- by Nupur Trivedi A tion Yard Cafe in Wood Street stow community centre under also started cooking meals to threat since 2017 after landlord ommunity kitchens distribute through mutual aid Livability put it up for sale. are continuing to pro- networks. Owner Enitan Akinde Home to several mental health vide hundreds of free told the Echo: “I have always groups, the Truro Road venue is hot meals a week to wanted to be supportive of our managed by local charity Crest, Cresidents in need. community and find there is no which needs to secure £1million to Mutual aid groups established better way of doing that than buy the building. But with its in March at the beginning of through food. I see it as a great tenancy expiring last month, the Covid-19 pandemic have opportunity to join forces with Livability has said Crest must pay delivered tens of thousands of an existing infrastructure and £15,000 rent for the next six months meals across Waltham Forest, happily do my bit.” or face eviction. An appeal has and although lockdown is now Food for the Forest (FFTF) been launched online at gofundme. over, demand remains high. launched as an offshoot from the com/f/help-harmony-hall. Many local cafes and churches mutual aid network. The organi- have allowed mutual aid volun- sation has so far helped to connect teers to use their kitchen spaces to the new community kitchens with Ward changes cook meals each week. St Andrew’s surplus produce providers such as ew borough ward Church in Colworth Road, Ley- the Hornbeam in Bakers Arms, boundaries are being tonstone, opened as a community as well as raising funds through finalised ahead of the Rowan Constantinou-Stygal cooking in Canon's Farm Kitchen, N 2022 local election. Plans include job losses expected, people’s to also offer community-sourced creating one new ward and renam- access to food and essentials will services to those in need, such ing three others. The borough's "It's by the community, be a lot more shaky.” as help with CV writing. Caz new 21st ward is being created by One of the projects FFTF is told the Echo: “It's a space where splitting High Street and naming for the community" assisting with is the creation everyone can feel safe. It's by the the western portion 'St James'. Hoe of a new community cafe, The community, for the community.” Street ward is also being renamed kitchen for the community. Vicar donations and facilitating food Farm, in Leytonstone. It is set Find your nearest mutual aid group: 'Walthamstow Village'. The total Paul Kennington told the Echo: “St hygiene training for kitchen volun- to open on Monday 7th Sep- Visit walthamforestmutualaid.org.uk number of councillors remains 60. Andrews Church has a long history teers. FFTF is looking at long-term tember and will operate from Donate to Food for the Forest A final public consultation on the of community outreach and we were solutions to hot meals provision. Canon’s Farm Kitchen in Cann or sign up to volunteer: Boundary Commission's recom- delighted to enter into a partnership Co-ordinator Rowan Constanti- Hall Road. Neighbours Caz Email [email protected] mendations ends Monday 14th with Leytonstone Mutual Aid and nou-Stygal said: “With furlough Crowe and Lula Abdilleh will Visit opencollective.com/food-for- September – visit consultation. support their excellent work.” coming to an end in October and run The Farm together and hope the-forest lgbce.org.uk/node/16843. Advertisement

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7235_CANDI-Waltham Forest Echo-Quarter-page-157.033x152mm-01-Sept.indd 1 26/08/2020 15:40 4 No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO FEATURES

Swifts migrate from Africa to the UK every summer to nest extraordinary British birds. nest here, yet I have found no evidence Credit Imran Shah/Wikimedia Commons The common swift may not be the that they currently do so. To help them most beautiful or colourful bird to nest again, I organised a number of Forging ahead look at with its greyish colour and talks from swift experts to raise aware- scythe-like long wings, but in flight it ness. This led to discussions and a survey Carla Pianese from Creative United is something else. The swift arrives in to see if local residents would be willing introduces a new programme early May and stays until August. It to put up nesting boxes, followed by an for local fashion designers comes to the UK to breed. During their application for funding to support the brief visit, it is possible to watch them proposal. Despite local enthusiasm, we ince launching in January 2019, the around Walthamstow Wetlands and the could not get any funding. I put up a 'Forge' business support programme Coppermills treatment works; it's an few boxes myself but have not attracted has worked with more than 65 cre- extraordinary sight! any hosts yet. The specialist 'swift tower' ative businesses across Waltham On some days the skies are alive with recently built at Walthamstow Wetlands SForest, providing tailored workshops, one- ‘screaming parties’ numbering a thou- has not had any yet either. to-one advice sessions, and coaching. sand birds. They are feasting on insects, Roger Ascham Primary School in Billet In my role as project manager of busi- which are easier to catch over water. Road is in the process of installing nest ness support programmes at Creative They are supreme in the air, flying at boxes. We are hoping others will follow United, an entrepreneurial community phenomenal speeds of up to 46mph, their fine example. To raise awareness interest company committed to support- and are able to distinguish between further there is a local football club ing the growth of the arts and creative non-stinging insects and stinging ones. named ‘Coppermill Swifts’ which has a industries, I’ve had the pleasure of work- Yet, these wonderful birds are in severe specially-designed swift badge in honour ing with a plethora of freelancers, artists, Swift decline, numbers are down by 50% – of our summer visitors. makers, designers, producers, creative truly a tragedy. A big reason for this is the After leaving the UK, swifts fly to micro-enterprises and small-to-medium lack of nesting sites, with the loss of old Africa, a colossal journey of 6,000 miles. enterprises (SMEs) in the area. response buildings where swifts like to nest in the They sleep 'on the wing' and, because We want to ensure that creative enter- eves. Another reason is linked to the wide- of their speed, they have few predators. prises have access to the skills, advice and by David O'Driscoll spread use of chemicals and fertilisers, These extraordinary birds pair for life; services that they need to achieve their which have an impact on insect numbers, they only come to Britain to breed and ambitions for growth within their com- ugust is a sad time for myself swifts' primary food source. There are raise their young. When the chicks hatch munities. There is no time more crucial and many residents of the only a few places where they are currently they spend the next two years flying. than now for this kind of support in light Coppermill area of Waltham- known to nest in Walthamstow. Poet Ted Hughes wrote in a famous of Covid-19 and the challenges faced stow. It’s the time to say good- Some of the older residents of Cop- lament to swifts: “Look! They're back! by businesses across the creative sector. Abye to 'our' swifts, one of the most permill Lane have told me they used to And they're gone.” Thankfully, we were able to pivot all of our offerings online to continue to offer the programme to our final Forge cohort, throughout lockdown. Work- ing with local business network Hive Collective, we’ve found that the wider Tastes of the Caribbean support network Forge has created has been invaluable at a time like this. Marcia Veiga takes a tour of the borough's best Caribbean eateries Patty, from Sweet Paper Creations, a not- oth Jamaica and Trinidad and and, for colder days, they have for-profit family business with a vision Tobago marked the 58th year four different soups. Locally- to develop craft workshops in the local of their independence from sourced fruits are blended into community, said: “This [programme] has the United Kingdom last either a punch or natural juice been hugely important to us, as there have Bmonth, but what celebrations there – my personal picks are the been times when it was very difficult to see would have been instead became a peanut punch or sorrel and the future; but the support and encourage- virtual experience. ginger juice. ment we have received from the network For Waltham Forest residents want- Meanwhile, for those who connections have helped me continue to ing to sample a taste of the Caribbean, want to enjoy the comforts of focus on my business.” some new family-run businesses offer the Caribbean from their sofa, Knowing the powerful impact business the opportunity to savour traditional I highly recommend Shelly- support programmes can have, we are meals. Don't know where to start? I have belly’s. Owner Joel Swaby really excited to be able to continue our tried and tested a favoured few, so you and partner Tania Dawkins work in the borough with our upcoming don't have to! first graced Walthamstow’s 'Forge Fashion' programme, in partner- At the lower end of Walthamstow Mar- twilight market back in 2016, ship with Waltham Forest Council and ket lies a beige front store with white- before creating their own The Fashion District. Inspired by the painted letters spelling 'Jerk Fusion'. pop-up shop. borough's rich arts and crafts heritage, Owner Jonathan Bryan first started cater- Having tasted their colour- the new programme aims to create a ing under the name five years ago, opening ful spread of five mains and connected, thriving and environmentally- the shop two years later. Jonathan told five sides, I’m a huge advo- conscious fashion and textiles business me: “Accessibility is important to me, so cate of the ackee and cal- community. Applications are now open I’ve kept my prices down to ensure every- laloo, with a side portion of and we’ll be working with 30 fashion and one can have a taste of Caribbean food.” Jonathan Bryan runs Jerk Fusion in Walthamstow High Street 'smokey Joe' mac and cheese. textiles businesses. With a focus on coro- After trying his most-popular jerk mouthfuls of quinoa salad. Tania says: “Authenticity is the ulti- navirus recovery, each business we work selection of chicken wings, tender lamb When it comes to early mornings, mate goal for us. It’s easy to create with will gain a better understanding of chops and signature skinless chicken Crave Caribbean in Road shortcuts especially when it comes to their strengths, get a chance to extend sausages, I was in awe. There is no com- is the perfect pit-stop for lining the seasoning, but we’ve made it a point their network, and create a bespoke promising when it comes to flavoursome stomach. The breakfast menu offers a to make it relative to its origin. We’ve action plan for sustainable growth. dishes coated with the perfect level of choice of okra, fish or ackee and salt- had customers who haven’t visited The deadline for Forge Fashion applications heat, complimented with dashes of fish. Lighter options include porridge back home in years tell us our food is Friday 18th September. Get involved: Jonathan's homemade hot sauce and with peanut, cornmeal or plantain takes them back there.” Visit creativeunited.org.uk/services/forge-fashion No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 5 News Concern over opportunities for Waltham FEATURES Forest businesses to trade P . 6

Advertisement Project Zero tackles complex issues around vulnerable young people and knife crime year. Steve is now launching a crowdfunding campaign to raise LICENCES FOR £150,000 to cover the cost of one year of activities and services to SPECIAL TREATMENT support his community, which PUBLIC NOTICE like so many others have been Notice is given that Wiggy Cheung impacted hard by Covid-19, exac- has applied to the London Borough of Waltham Forest for a Special Treatment erbating critical issues such as Licence for: Tattooing domestic abuse and food poverty. Licence for the premises: Steve says: “We are currently Wiggy Cheung, Dear Watson Ltd, 6 working towards a long-term leg- Hooker’s Road, London E17 6DP islative change with our friends at Anyone wishing to oppose the application must give notice in writing to Wood Street Walls, addressing the the Licensing Officer, Neighbourhoods & disparity between housing devel- Commercial Services, Licensing Service, Magistrates Building, 1 Farnan Avenue, opments and community impact. Walthamstow, London, E17 4NX within “In the short term, we will be 21 days of publication specifying the independently raising funds for grounds of opposition. the venue that we hope to secure Persons objecting to the grant of a licence must be prepared to attend in in the very near future.” person before a Committee Just as people are put on a wait- of the Council. ing list for social housing, com- munity groups such as Steve’s Licensing Act 2003: need a similar service to prioritise Application for the Grant space. We need to work to shore of a Premises Licence up the social infrastructure for Seeking space for young people provisions specified under the Notice of application for the grant of a Premises Licence under section 17 of the affordable workspace policies Licensing Act 2003. of the London Plan, to ensure Notice is hereby given that Miss Rachel Charlotte Pyatt from Project Zero on how the these essential services continue. Stevens has applied to the London Borough of Waltham Forest for the grant of a Premises anti-violence campaign is helping young people thrive Artist Gabriel’s intent is to flip Licence at La Fauxmagerie Ltd., Unit the traditional vision of patron- 46L, The Mall, Leyton Industrial Village, Argall Avenue, E10 7QP. The nature of the new mural of local violent crime is a public health After losing his previous commu- age portraiture, to champion local application is as follows: youth worker Steve crisis and tackling these issues nity space in Wood Street two years people working at the grassroots To permit the sale of alcohol 24 hours Barnabis, by artist requires attention, beyond police ago, Steve has been struggling to level and protect and empower a day online through the business Gabriel Pitcher, has been and elected officials. It demands provide essential provisions from their communities. The hope is website, which will be packed for customers between operating hours of Aattracting attention in Waltham- a process of demystifying govern- smaller spaces. He now has a posi- that this artwork can bridge a 05:00–23:00 each day for consumption stow (see more on Page 12). mental policy, to ensure engage- tive dialogue with Waltham Forest connection with the local commu- off the premises. The piece is the latest in a series ment at a community level. The Council to secure an appropriate nity to the issues Steve confronts The Licensing register listing full details of the application is kept by the Licensing of creative works raising awareness portrait of Steve intends to spark venue for his creative projects, daily, but to also spark a dialogue Service, 3 The Square, Leyton, London E10 and action for Project Zero, a com- a dialogue on fundamental fail- which focus on social inclusion and about the importance of stability 5NR. The application may be viewed Monday to Friday between the hours of 9am–5pm munity interest company tackling ings in our social infrastructure, providing support and resources in reinforcing sustainable cities (except Bank Holidays). complex issues around vulnerable where projects such as Project for local families. locally and globally. Any person wishing to make a representation youths and knife crime in London. Zero fight year-on-year against If all goes well, they will acquire in respect of the above activities may do so For more information on the campaign: in writing to the Licensing Service, 3 The The loss of young life through cutbacks and setbacks. the space before the end of the Visit crowdfunder.co.uk/project-zero-youth-hub Square, Leyton, London E10 5NR or via email: [email protected] Representations must be received no later than 17th September 2020. ward I hope we have kept peo- It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly ple connected, given them a make a false statement in connection with this application. A person is liable to an focus and their minds active unlimited fine on conviction should such a Soldiering online false statement be made. during lockdown. I hope too, with so much happening polit- Esther Freeman was due to launch a project on East End female- ically, it has inspired people to led activism when Covid-19 hit, but is now bringing it online make their voices heard; to LICENCES FOR believe that you can fight back SPECIAL TREATMENT o you remember that then no more than 30, and finally I Women – was out in the world. and make a difference. PUBLIC NOTICE scene in Star Wars with realised the whole thing was going Although we've missed the per- Our online work will continue Notice is given Miss Sharon Dempsey Luke and Han in the to be canned. A few days later, we sonal connection, bringing people until the end of the year, with a has applied to the London Borough of garbage compactor? were confined to our homes. in the community together to talk digital home-learning pack for Waltham Forest for a Special Treatment DThat's what life felt like for me There were frantic Zoom meet- about this fascinating but largely schools to help with their blended Licence for: Waxing, Manicure, back in March. I was about to ings, emails, and phone calls. untold history, we have gained education programmes. We are Pedicure, Facials, Massage Licence for the premises: Dare go live with our spring/summer After two years of research and other things. The online exhibi- also holding an online talk on Salon and Academy LLP, 249 High programme of events for the planning we did not want to tion has audio clips of the women Sunday 6th September on the his- Road, Leytonstone E11 4HH 'Women Activists of East Lon- give up on the whole thing at activists, so you can hear as well as tory of equal pay, with Gnome Anyone wishing to oppose the don' project; a series of exhibi- this vital stage. So we started see them. That would have been House acting as our virtual host. application must give notice in writing tions, talks and other activities thinking about how we could harder to pull off with a physical So we go on, and I hope you to the Licensing Officer, Resident Services, Licensing Service, 3 The to celebrate this inspiring and bring everything online. A few exhibition. We have also hosted will join us in this virtual jour- Square, Leyton, London E10 5NR fascinating history. But the walls frazzled weeks later, juggling online talks, which people from as ney through East London's WITHIN 28 DAYS OF PUBLICATION were closing in. budgets (not to mention child- far away as Northumberland have remarkable history. specifying the grounds of opposition. There was a rising anxiety as care!) we launched our online attended, significantly extending Persons objecting to the grant of a licence For more information on 'The Women must be prepared to attend in person first they announced groups of exhibition. A month or so after the reach of our heritage. Activists of East London' online exhibition: before a Committee of the Council. no more than 500 could meet, that, our new podcast – Rebel Most of all, by pressing for- Visit eastlondonwomen.org.uk 6 No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO NEWS Row over local markets Concern over opportunities for Waltham Forest businesses to trade Street’ and ‘Choose Local’ campaigns, “Disappointed to see a crepe stall from Speaking to the Local Democracy by Victoria Munro, Local Democracy Reporter would not support her calls to have the Hampstead when we visited the market Reporting Service, Lloyd Park Market market “go into local hands”. to support other local businesses – only organiser Max Kennedy said: “The arket traders say Waltham She said: “My argument is that this there weren’t any!” local response to the market has been Forest Council cannot should be an E17-run market with maybe A total of 15% of the market’s trad- brilliant and we have an amazing loyal claim to support local a token stall or two from elsewhere, if ers are based in the borough, including customer base that’s grown over the sellers when they make up there’s room. Not the other way round. Walthamstow Dogs, Hanoi Kitchen, Kol- past year since we’ve opened and who Mless than one-fifth of stalls at one of the “I know so many local traders who are kati, Hoshi, Sandwiche, Marli’s Kitchen, will come out and support our traders, borough’s most popular markets. on the brink of losing their livelihoods. Artisan Foods and Shedletsky’s. It also rain or shine! Lloyd Park Market, open from 10am to Their incomes would be saved with one lists reasons why local traders may not “There’s been a bit of confusion among 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays, features or two days at that market. one or two people, hopefully the info on stalls from businesses such as estab- “That initiative to be a ‘guest’ at the our website will answer all their ques- lished chain Crosstown Doughnuts, market is a joke. You need to have been "I know so many tions now.” operating from Battersea, and Ted’s trading for less than a year and, due to Clyde Loakes, the council’s deputy Veg, based in Lincolnshire. the pandemic, most businesses won’t local traders who leader, said: “We're proud of the wide Critics have also questioned why have started up this year.” are on the brink range of markets across Waltham Forest responsibility for the market was given to She made it clear that she did not want offering shoppers a great range of prod- an organiser, Max Kennedy, who is based to run Lloyd Park Market herself but of losing their ucts from a variety of traders. in Hackney. In response, the market has was concerned that spots were offered “We don't have a contract with the now set up a “guest” initiative, allowing to out-of-borough businesses when there livelihoods" operators of Lloyd Park Market – the new stalls to trade for a day without the was a clear local alternative offering the organisers hire the space on a monthly usual charge, and insisted local traders same product. be accepted, such as the market being at basis. Since opening, local traders are given priority “where possible”. The owner of one local business, Dear capacity; already having too many stalls have been given opportunities to have Hoe Street Market organiser Kate Bod Prudence Creperie, said on Twitter they of that kind; problems with the trader’s a free trial stall. Prospective traders are said she was “baffled” the council, which had applied to trade at Lloyd Park but quality, stall setup or branding; or if a encouraged to contact Lloyd Park Mar- has widely publicised its ‘Save the High “never received a reply” and added: trader cannot commit on a weekly basis. ket for future opportunities.” Advertisement Tropical Sun shines on Mayor’s 24/7 sponsored walk for threatened hospice

for auction at the Mayor’s office when he visited their Leyton to raise funds for Haven House. premises to thank the com- The items in the hamper included pany for their help during the Coconut Peanuts: Crunchy Srira- pandemic providing the local cha Peanuts: Hot Pepper sauce: community with food, which the Green Tea: Chicken Seasoning: council has been distributing. Vegetable Seasoning: Strawberry Mayor Robbins said at the Flavour Syrup: Coconut Flavour time: “Our relationship with puff: Apple Cider Vinegar: a Trop- Wanis has been a good one since ical Sun apron: Coffee Peanuts: they moved into the borough. and Pure & Natural Honey. Wanis staying open during the Tropical Sun Foods staff mem- Covid crisis is vital. It is one of bers were also on hand during the links for distributing food the Mayor’s walk, selling drinks which is desperately needed, to generate further cash for the especially in London.” deserving charity. Wanis is a leading distributor Tropical Sun Foods’ community and wholesaler of quality world brand ambassador Paul Harrison foods, offering more than 8,000 said: “Haven House is a lifeline for products from across the globe. hundreds of children and families he team from Tropical in Woodford Green, which faces future and are launching a 24/7 and they need us more than ever. Sun Foods, based in a £500,000 shortfall due to the challenge, reflecting the 24/7 care As a business we are committed For more information about Leyton, East London, Covid crisis causing their fund- they provide. Mayor Chris Rob- to supporting our local commu- Tropical Sun and how the were there to support raising events to be cancelled. bins entered into the spirit with nity and are delighted to do our company is helping the community, visit facebook. the Mayor of Waltham Since 2003 Haven House has his own 24/7 challenge, walking bit to help.” com/TropicalsunFoods Forest,T Councillor Chris Robbins supported over 600 families, 24 laps of Leyton Ground, Mayor Robbins previously met CBE, on his sponsored walk at looking after children and young clocking up 7 miles. the team from Tropical Sun For information on how Leyton Cricket Ground on Thurs- people with life-limiting illnesses. Tropical Sun Foods donated a Foods’ parent company, world to support Haven House day August 20th, raising cash for Covid-19’s impact means Haven hamper of food and drink items foods wholesaler Wanis Inter- Children Hospice, visit www. Haven House Children’s Hospice House now face an uncertain from their market leading range national Foods, in May this year, havenhouse.org.uk No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 7 Photography New project shines a light on the INTERVIEW borough's Pakistani community P . 9

This page is sponsored by UnLtd, the foundation for social entrepreneurs. UnLtd finds, funds Contact Simone Watson: and supports people that run businesses with a social purpose. UnLtd works in a number Call 0207 566 1100 of communities across the UK to harness the talents and skills of local people to tackle the Email [email protected] challenges faced by communities and the people who live in them. Visit unltd.org.uk Sofa, so good Supported by Interior designer Emily Wheeler tells James Cracknell about her mission to furnish the homes of those most in need

hat do you do if you need local authorities and service providers, new furniture but you can supporting families in need, and oper- barely afford to feed your ating an interior design shop that would family? How are you sup- generate the money needed to fund the Wposed to be able to buy a sofa if you're project. In the short-term, she desperately on welfare support? needs to find storage space for all the This is a problem Emily Wheeler furniture she is accumulating. decided to help solve, after realising she “I would like to work with social services had a unique set of skills that put her in to support children who are in care, get- an ideal position to do so. ting commissioned to help them. But at Emily Wheeler is experienced both Emily was previously a social worker in social work and interior design the moment I am just looking for storage for Waltham Forest Council, a job that space and a logistics company so I don't gave her an insight into the conditions reliant on welfare to be able to furnish from Facebook, I realised it was possible.” have to keep everything in my kitchen!” people in poverty are living in across the their homes.” Emily launched her social enterprise, Emily has worked with four families to borough. But she is also an experienced Emily saw an opportunity to use her skills Furnishing Futures, last year, working date, furnishing their homes with items interior designer – having even written a as an interior designer to help affected with one family at a time to provide such as bunk beds, televisions and bed book on the subject. families, not just by finding furniture everything they need. linen – all items donated to her. “As soon “In my job as a social worker I met fam- for them, but by helping them to make “The furniture we provide is of no cost as I started asking people in the commu- ilies struggling in poor-quality housing a home that they to the family. nity, people were so generous, and I have and suffering from austerity,” Emily says. felt happy in. They need to be had more offers than I needed.” “It is difficult for them to meet their chil- “I knew people “It is very difficult for referred to the The project caught the attention of dren's needs and it has an impact on their who had got the project and then UnLtd, the foundation for social entrepre- physical and mental health. courage to flea families reliant on we find every- neurs, which is now supporting Emily to “There are an estimated half-a-million domestic vio- welfare to be able to thing they need find a storage unit in the William Morris children in England who don't have their lence situations, for their home. ward of Walthamstow. own bed to sleep in – 65% of private ten- but were put into furnish their homes” If you can cre- “This is a problem that is literally hid- ancy homes are furnished but less then 2% empty flats and ate a home that den behind closed doors – people don't of social tenancies are furnished. These couldn't afford to look after their children, is welcoming, safe and comfortable for realise this happens and what challenges are the people who need the most support. so ended up going back [to their abuser]. everyone it gives you that foundation for some families face.” “Sometimes they have teenagers with “I realised I could bring the two parts of better mental health and self-esteem, and no space to sleep or do their own home- my experience together. When I bought my ultimately a better quality of life.” For more information about Furnishing Futures: work. They might have no oven, no wash- first family home and I was able to furnish In the long-term Emily wants to become Email [email protected] ing machine. It is very difficult for families it through family donations and freebies a service that can form partnerships with Visit furnishingfutures.org 8 No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO

Advertisement No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 9 PHOTOGRAPHY

Icons Photographs by Alisha Dar Over the last 75 years, Waltham Forest has become home borough, like myself, are thriving more than ever before, and to a sizeable Pakistani community. During this period, the my portrayal of them shines a light on the self-confidence of community has grown and there have been whispers of intelligent, courageous and beautiful people whose positivity struggle, re-adjustment and triumph. These stories are rarely will continue to enhance the community for years to come. heard. The community is prospering and I take great pride in seeing how well we have integrated with the principles To see more of Alisha's work: @alishardar / alishadar.com of 'Britishness' while managing to preserve our roots from Instagram Visit erosion. It is a testament to what a multicultural society can To submit your photos for consideration: look like. More specifically, the Pakistani women from this Email [email protected] 10 No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO LETTERS

Advertisement No Winns Lift us up Dear Waltham Forest Echo situation I recently made my first trip out Dear Waltham Forest Echo since March. I got off my bus Sadly, a popular and much-valued at the entrance of The Mall in cornershop in Walthamstow closed Selborne Road. Previously this Is your income under its doors in August. Winns Stores provided easy access to the lift at threat due to the had long been a familiar sight at the rear of the shopping centre. the junction of Winns Avenue, No such luck this time! With no impact of COVID-19? Winns Terrace and Carr Road, publicity and no signage, I found serving both local residents and that at the bottom of the lift area, visitors to the adjacent Lloyd Park. new hoarding had been put up During the recent Covid-19 barring access to the lift. This lockdown, it was a real lifesaver meant a walk along the whole ENROL for locals, as it stayed open length of the car park to where throughout and maintained a I knew there were two lifts up to stock of essentials, including the ground floor – no such luck items that were in short supply there either, as I was greeted by a NOW elsewhere. Regular customers also notice on each lift informing me included children en-route to and they were not now in use. at one of our from school, staff at the nearby Even railway stations, not usually COVID-secure children's centre, and older people first in anything, have had their who have difficulty in walking far, lifts adorned with instructions IT ALL centres all of whom will miss it greatly. that “one person to travel in lift When the proprietors took the at a time”. So why is the hub of BEGINS AT shop over it was at a low ebb, Waltham Forest's shopping area and they worked very hard to lacking in its primary function of turn it around, building it up encouraging shoppers to enjoy WESTKING FREE COURSES FOR ADULTS to be a real community asset. their visit? The council must westking.ac.uk/enrol However, circumstances have ensure The Mall acts in a manner UP TO LEVEL 2 now led them to move to new befitting for the borough. premises in Woodford. 020 7963 4181 Keith Foster [email protected] Graham Larkbey Farnan Avenue, Walthamstow Carr Road, Walthamstow Missing the Help to sit 7235_WestKing-Waltham Forest Echo-Quarter-page-157.033x152mm-01-Sept.indd 1 26/08/2020 15:41 grandchildren Dear Waltham Forest Echo I recently applied for a new tables Dear Waltham Forest Echo and chairs licence for outside my I would like to set up a Zoom Caribbean restaurant. To enable group for those of us who have social distancing, it is better children and grandchildren for customers to eat outside. living overseas. My daughter Waltham Forest Council says you married a New Zealander and have to wait twelve days from the has lived there for over ten years. start of the application. There She has two children, a girl of were tables and chairs outside four years old and a boy aged of the shop before I took over, 18 months. I go there every two so this seems to be lunacy, and years, alternating Christmases, I know that there are a lot of but with Covid-19 it’s unlikely other businesses suffering with that I’ll get there at the end of similar problems. I think in order this year. I find it hard when so to solve some of these issues it A NEW DESIGN ROUTE many of my friends and relations would be better for us to come talk, showing photos and sharing together as a group to discuss holidays with grandchildren and find solutions, as many of THROUGH THE STREETS OF and even great-grandchildren. I us will have been through the would like to set up a support same situations and know the WALTHAMSTOW, FROM WOOD group – I tried it once before but right information or right person we were too scattered around the to go to. I have therefore created STREET TO BLACKHORSE LANE. country. Now with the days of a Facebook group for businesses Zoom I think it might work. in the Walthamstow area, please Many in similar situations join and let's discuss, as together could find it useful. If you are we are stronger! Visit facebook. interested, please contact me at com/groups/800043474201761 [email protected] 12–20 SEPTEMBER 2020 Jonathan Bryan Jean Duggleby Jerk Fusion, Walthamstow WWW.WMDESIGNLINE.COM Walthamstow High Street No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 11 Arts & Culture Introducing a new design trail connecting COLUMNS creativity, stories and activism P . 12 All about the oil Jo Sealy from Waltham Forest Business Network meets an Italian farmer whose organic olive oil graces many local markets ighams Park couple are bring- olive grove mostly from the UK; in Italy in the pipeline to add to their product ing a little taste of southern they employ seasonal workers during the range – to include 100% olive oil soap Italy to East London. harvest period. for example – and the team are confi- Collana Verde is run by “It’s been a huge achievement to set dent that they can achieve their target HAlfonso Petti and Indre Cukuraite, who up the enterprise in Italy, produce and of around 500 customers in the next produce extra virgin olive oil at their export the oil, get the product launched, 12 months. farm in Campania, southern Italy, and and start selling it widely in the UK Alfonso is looking ahead. “Our main import the oil to London where it is sold through our website. challenge for the coming weeks and the through retail shops, farmers markets “We deliver locally and the feedback rest of this year is being able to travel to and through their website. we’ve had from our clients has been amaz- our farm in Italy and be involved in the The family-run business started in Jan- ing, resulting in lots of repeat orders.” harvest process to ensure enough olive uary 2020 and is part of the couple’s Setting up a new business in the oil is produced and shipped over for the longer-term plan to be closer to nature. shadow of a world pandemic has created Christmas period and for 2021.” “Three years ago we bought the farm extraordinary challenges. with a view to producing organic vir- The team managed to sell at two farm- gin olive oil which we could sell in the ers' markets before the UK lockdown; UK, where we live for most of the year,” they then lost some of their initial stock- For more information about Collana Verde: Alfonso explained. ists as shops were shut down. It’s meant Visit collanaverde.com “Our olive grove's rich biodiversity a rethink of their business approach, Do you know a great small business in enables us to create a uniquely delicate with a shift of emphasis to their online Waltham Forest with a story to tell? and high-quality virgin olive oil.” shop and leafleting locally which has Email [email protected] The couple maintain the farm and the helped them to maintain sales. Plans are Visit walthamforestbusiness.co.uk Alfonso Petti sells his home grown olive oil at local markets Nevertheless, she persisted Michelle Edwards scores a victory in her quest for council transparency Advertisement s I bit into some deli- taken the last 18 months of my ernment joined a growing chorus enforce the law. Instead, I was cious barbecue chicken life to force their hands. of criticism and parachuted in a advised to “seek independent Licensing Act 2003: wings at Bruce Burgers On average, each application – global management consultancy legal advice regarding the mat- Application for the Grant in Tottenham, I received essentially an appeal – that I've to run a major audit, following ters raised in this particular case”. of a Premises Licence Aa mobile alert for an email. Despite made to the ICO about a council claims that the regulator does In August 2019, the council my (new) boyfriend’s objection, I FOI response has taken me more not have the falsely claimed Notice of application for the grant of a Premises Licence under section couldn’t resist the urge to check, than two hours to compile, draft, clout to take to have pro- 17 of the Licensing Act 2003. smearing sauce across the phone’s proofread and submit. That on tech giants "At least it’s vided me with Notice is hereby given that 4DegreesC screen in the process. doesn’t take account of supple- like Google SAR disclo- Ltd trading as Osolocal2u has applied to A well-placed figure in gov- mentary hours spent responding and is not fit only taken sures held by the London Borough of Waltham Forest for the grant of a Premises Licence at ernance thought I should see to subsequent correspondence for purpose. the last 18 an external Horner House, New , a July entry on the ‘FOI Man’ containing nonsensical argu- Cue uncom- government London, E10 5SQ). The nature of the blog about the first practice rec- ments. I am not remunerated fortable agree- months of my department application is as follows: ommendation to be issued to for any of this. As of July, 20 ment with the that I hadn’t To permit the sale of alcohol a local authority by the Infor- of my ICO applications (nearly Conservatives. life to force even requested. from Mon-Sun, 7am–11pm. mation Commissioner’s Office half) have been upheld and 18 The ICO has their hands" When the ICO The Licensing register listing full details (ICO) – essentially a telling decision notices have been issued, a tendency to bothered to of the application is kept by the Licensing Service, 3 The Square, Leyton, London off for not following ICO best all publicly available online. accept without question the word ask, the council couldn’t pro- E10 5NR. The application may be viewed practice on handling Freedom As pointed out by the blog, of alleged offenders and close vide any evidence to support Monday to Friday between the hours of of Information (FOI) requests – practice recommendations are live cases prematurely, shifting their claim. ICO senior man- 9am – 5pm (except Bank Holidays). in over a decade. It wasn’t until “basically a slap on the wrist”. responsibility for effective adju- agement eventually arranged Any person wishing to make a representation in respect of the above I reached the sixth paragraph That’s all that’s happened here. dication to the complainant. For a meeting last month with activities may do so in writing to the containing an external link to Irrespective of the wilful breaches example, an April 2019 request to the council’s chief executive Licensing Service, 3 The Square, Leyton, London E10 5NR or via email: the eleven-page recommenda- by the council, the ICO refuse to secure correspondence concerning Martin Esom to discuss the [email protected] tion that I realised the ICO had take any meaningful legal action, myself in a subject access request matter. The outcome? No Representations must be received no reprimanded, you guessed it, yet frequently threaten to do so. (SAR) was refused twice by the bloody idea. All I managed to later than 9th of September 2020. Waltham Forest Council. The The ICO has proved itself to be council despite a clear ruling by ascertain was some vague crap It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly trigger for this reprimand was completely useless, but don’t just the ICO that they had “incorrectly about a shared performance make a false statement in connection described in the blog as “a single take my word for it; academics, applied the ‘manifestly unfounded plan which they will be moni- with this application. A person is liable to an unlimited fine on conviction should persistent individual” – referring charities, journalists and lawyers and excessive’ justification”. Case toring over the coming months. such a false statement be made. to yours truly! At least it’s only agree. Four months ago, the gov- closed. Nobody raised a finger to The ICO is a functioning failure. 12 No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO ARTS & CULTURE Never in debt fund that bought up and then blew up £1.2m by Hilary Powell & Daniel Edelstyn of high-interest debt from Walthamstow and the surrounding areas. ay 2019. A golden Ford Tran- We are making a feature documentary film sit explodes on wasteland in about the project, due out in spring next London Docklands, with a year – but before that, our book is coming backdrop of Canary Wharf's out! Bank Job is published by Chelsea Green Mfinancial towers. Papers flutter through the Publishing and charts the process of coming morning air, and with this act £1.2million of up with the idea behind the project, as well UK high-interest debt is cancelled. as being a personal story of our lives, being What led to this early morning 'debtona- brought up during a turbulent time in British tion', a culmination of our journey down history. Through the book we deconstruct the rabbit hole of debt and money, a quest outmoded ideas about debt and money, in and a questioning of the moral arguments order to re-imagine how we could make a around debt and the injustice at the heart of fairer economic system for all. We wrote the current economic system? most of the book under lockdown and were A new Walthamstow mural of local community Many of you may remember the glory astonished at how quickly things that we’d worker Steve Barnabis features along the route days of Hoe Street Central Bank. It was been told were impossible – solving home- the place where we printed our own bank lessness, evictions, mortgage holidays – were notes, sold them as artworks, and put half of actually sorted out (though only temporar- the funds we raised into four amazing local ily). We were told there was no magic money Art from the people causes depicted on the banknotes – Eat or tree – but the sky hasn’t fall in. Heat Food Bank, PL84U Al Suffa, The Soul There will be a Walthamstow launch event Project (now Project Zero), and Barn Croft of Bank Job at Exhale Brewery on Thursday Lawrence Walker from William Morris Big Primary School. The other half went into a 17th September – visit bankjob.pictures Local introduces a new design trail connecting creativity, stories and activism collective of local organi- ing with future young designers from sations is inviting people to Waltham Forest College and artist Fan- Inspired by Will's walls explore a new design route in dangoe Kid, and exploring themes of Walthamstow this month, as unity and activism. Alice Acreman builds on the work of William Morris Apart of London Design Festival. An exhibit will open a window into the Designing wallpaper has always be something William Morris Design Line (WMDL) social history of craft and reveal a local I wanted to do, especially being inspired by is a programme of collaborations connection to a world-famous family the original textile artist William Morris. I’ve inspired by buried history and modern- known for 20th Century furniture making. noticed a growing trend for mural wallpapers day politics, staged in the streets and Inspired by the 'Mini Morris' project and after getting some feedback from my social hosted online. Inspired by Morris’s developed during lockdown by local media followers, I chose to work on a tropical statement – “art from the people, for the artist Sean Rodrigo, children and fami- scene with my signature plants and animals. people” – the week-long event starting lies are invited to go on a ‘Morris Hunt’ For a few weeks, I worked on painting trees, on Saturday 12th September sees the along the route, ending with an exhi- plants, flowers and vines on large sheets of local community coming together to bition of artworks. A1 paper then, as interest from my social celebrate creativity, resilience and inspire With Blackhorse Workshop and media following grew, I went live on Ins- future young designers. youth group Blackhorse Responders, tagram and painted a flying parrot to add Produced by community organisation we will also host a workshop and talk to the scene. I filmed from start to finish, William Morris Big Local and street with Extinction Rebellion, exploring Alice Acreman talking through my way of working with art project Wood Street Walls under a activism and open-source design. in her studio watercolours, and loved getting live feedback partnership called 'Urban by Nature', The group will also be working with have a small business, Alice Acreman – especially those who said how relaxing it WMDL is a platform of ideas and inspi- industrial designer Liang-Chung Jen Silks, which I run from my studio in was to watch! I experimented with filming ration relating to design, shared through on repurposing hardware to create Walthamstow. I hand-paint designs the process and creating short videos set public installations, events and family new forms of design. inspired by nature and digitally print the to music on Tiktok and other editing apps activities. The team of residents behind A key aim for the programme is to Iartwork on luxury fabrics to create fashion which I hadn’t had the time to use before. it hope to shine a spotlight on local peo- support independent businesses with and home accessories. Once the hand-painted artwork was com- ple doing exciting things in the fields passing trade. They need our love and I moved here two years ago after visiting Wil- plete, I used Photoshop to combine all the of art, design and social justice – tell- cash. The intention for WMDL longer- liam Morris Gallery and finding there were separate pieces and create a jungle scene. ing stories about how people-powered term is to work with a wider range of great resources for my business, including very Cutting out each shape to remove the white movements are affecting change and partners and sponsors to build out the affordable haberdasheries and independent background is as much a part of the process building community with creativity. maiden year into a rolling programme shops. Now I've settled in, I love the mix of as painting it. It was a long process but I’m The route itself follows the main and yearly event to inspire more cre- renovated houses, diverse communities and art now very happy to say that the ‘Mighty Jun- roads of Wood Street, down Forest ative civic change. events happening in the area and am always tell- gle’ mural wallpaper is now available to buy Road, and up to Blackhorse Lane, with People are encouraged to reach out ing people to come visit this East London gem. bespoke, in three beautiful colours. small deviations on side roads to find new to Urban by Nature with programme During the pandemic I have embarked upon Although I'm deeply saddened by the loss and existing street art from Wood Street ideas for future events and creative hap- a wallpaper design project. Initially I was and trauma brought by the pandemic, I feel Walls, as well as other surprises. The penings. I look forward to seeing you apprehensive about what lockdown would lucky to have been able to try to find a way to programme is in development and will en route! mean for my business, but chose to strive focus on productivity. I hope others have been appear online via a dedicated website. forward with a positive attitude and aimed able to do the same. Some of the highlights of the week- For more information about William Morris Design to use the time at home to get into a big Line, taking place 12th–20th September: See more of Alice's work: long event include the unveiling of a project that I wouldn’t have the time for in Instagram @williammorrisdesignline Instagram @alice_acreman_silks striking new piece of public art, work- Visit wmdesignline.com my normal routine. Visit aliceacremansilks.com No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 13 Sport Leyton Orient return to action after six months of no competitive football P . 14 Advertisement LEYTONSTONE LOVES FILM From 16 Sept 2020 Free

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credit goes both to those working behind Advertisement the scenes for their regular and open com- Orient return munication about their plans, and the fans fter a long wait of almost continuing the loyalty shown since relega- exactly six months since their tion and the subsequent takeover in 2017. ARONA last competitive fixture, Ley- Given the long delay, it is difficult to St ton Orient will travel to Forest assess where the O’s stand on the pitch JAMESOLICITORS S AGreen Rovers on Saturday 5th September ahead of the new season in relation to for an EFL Cup tie, with a full league other clubs. It was a disappointing season season beginning with a trip to Oldham last time out but there were positive signs one week later, reports Jim Nicols of progress in the weeks leading up to the Your local solicitors where family matters After the initial period of inaction, it shutdown. There is a sense of stability was decided in June via a formal vote with the only signing to date being the by the member clubs to end the 2019/20 permanent capture of midfielder Ouss League Two season early. Final positions Cisse, a player who was a key component • Family Law and children matters (Judges were determined on a points-per-game of Orient’s upturn in fortunes following have moved to remote hearings), • We remain open basis, meaning Orient finished the sea- his arrival on loan in January. Wills and Probate, Immigration EU and are happy to act, son in 17th place. With the club neither One significant departure is central and we can carry out in relegation trouble nor involved in the defender Marvin Ekpiteta, who turned applications and Nationality law remote appointments. promotion shake-up, this was a satisfac- down the offer of a new contract to sign for • Discount for all Wills and Lasting powers tory outcome and enabled planning for League One side Blackpool. Ekpiteta was the 2020/21 season to begin. an important player in Orient’s National of attorney drafting for all NHS workers 5* star google Premier League games and Champion- League title-winning side of 2018/19 and • Arona St James are dropping off ship and lower league play-off ties were will need to be replaced. The return to fit- reviews all played behind closed doors during ness of Jobi McAnuff and a new contract supplies to the local food bank and June and July, so Orient will have been for academy graduate Ruel Sotiriou follow- remains committed to helping those able to see what may be in store for the ing a long wait could be important factors. with families fighting COVID 19 new season. As things stand, matches will With 46 league games due to be com- take place in front of no supporters until pleted in a shortened time frame, the at least October, with the potential for full squad will need to be utilised, and it 020 3757 8670 www.AronaStJames.co.uk limited crowds from then, depending on wouldn’t be a surprise to see an addition 63 St James St, Walthamstow, London E17 7PJ updates to government Covid-19 guidance. or two once the action begins. The owners Despite this uncertainty the club has have talked about making continuous Defending Human Rights managed to sell more than 3,000 season progress and improving on last season We are regulated by the Solicitors Regulatory Authority number 619031 cards, which is an exceptional effort, and will be a minimum expectation. Advertisement No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 15 Support independent local journalism

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Member THE OLD STATION YARD CAFE organisations BREAKFAST, LUNCH, EVENTS & CATERING 16 No. 66 SEPTEMBER 2020 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO

Profix 020 8485 6264 ROOFING LTD 07467 065 097

Complete roofing service from one slate to a new installation, Chimney Repair using quality materials from well-known manufacturers. Roof Repairs We provide written estimates for all our projects, for Soffits & customers large or small, Fascias residential and commercial. Call our team today for free Moss Removal help and advice Flat Roofing Scaffolding Lead Flashing Tiled/ Slate Roofs [email protected] www.profixroofing.co.uk

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