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Free WALTHAM February 2018, No. 35 Email [email protected] Facebook /WalthamForestEcho Tweet @WFEcho FOREST ECHO Visit walthamforestecho.co.uk

Feature News History Column Event A Bulgarian bookshop Residents invited to help Graham Millington looks The small business that's An all-day rave will raise has become a popular 'occupy' Walthamstow at child mortality rates bringing a splash of colour money for local foodbank community hub Town Square from a century ago to people's lives Eat or Heat P . 5 P . 6 P . 9 P . 11 P . 13 Knife crime soars in Waltham Forest Latest figures show large rise in violent crimes using offensive weapons by James Cracknell

The council is“ working very closely with the Met Police to address residents’ concerns Waltham Forest Council leader Clare Coghill issued” a statement to reassure residents. She said: “It is tragic when any life is lost to vi- olence and we would like to offer our condolences to the friends and family of the young man who died. “After a number of violent inci- dents in the borough recently, we want to reassure our community the council is working very closely with the Met Police to address res- idents’ concerns and we will con- tinue to work with our colleagues in the emergency services to ensure our streets are safe. The police are already increasing patrols in the area and we would encourage any- Weapons recovered by the Metropolitan Police last summer as part of Operation Sceptre, launched in 2015 to help deter young people from carrying knives Credit Met Police one with information about these crimes to share it with them.” iolent crimes involv- day, making it the most violent Mayor for Policing and Crime, ment against habitual knife carri- It was announced last year that ing offensive weapons month recorded locally for several Sophie Linden, wrote to Waltham- ers and fugitives, activity to tackle Walthamstow Town Centre Police are nearly twice as years, while in November a series stow MP Stella Creasy in response a local organised crime network Office would close, leaving Ching- common in Waltham of gang-related attacks left one to her recent plea for help with com- linked to drug distribution, weapon ford as the only place in Waltham VForest as they were six years ago, teenager dead and another seri- munity policing and pledged an addi- sweeps, patrols, engagement with Forest where a crime can be reported new data shows. ously injured. tional £184,631 for Waltham Forest schools, referrals into the London in person. Chingford Police Station The most recent figures from the The rate of violent crimes in- Council to fund gang and serious Gang Exit service, and more. in Kings Head Hill is located in the Metropolitan Police show there volving offensive weapons in the youth violence prevention work. “I would be happy to support ward with the borough's lowest were 218 violent crimes involving borough has risen every single year The deputy mayor said: “Specif- your call for local housing asso- crime rate, but the decision to save weapons such as knives last year, since 2010, with the 22 percent rise ically in Waltham Forest the MPS ciations to work in partnership £8million by closing 37 police front compared to 116 in 2011 – an in- between 2016 and 2017 the biggest [Met Police] has undertaken a with the police and local council counters across the capital was de- crease of 88 percent. annual increase in five years. This problem profile and developed a to tackle knife crime.” fended by Mayor of London Sadiq In September last year there was is despite the overall crime rate re- partnership action plan between Shortly after 18-year-old Kacem Khan as helping to protect front-line an average of one such crime being ducing over the same period. the police and local authority Mokrane was stabbed to death policing by “diverting resources” to committed in the borough every In January the London Deputy which includes targeted enforce- in Walthamstow last November, where they were most needed. 2 No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO COMMENT Public services need government support Overstretched police officers are struggling to manage casework, argues Shelly Berry FELLOWSHIP IS LIFE or eleven years until last the message – domestic violence report crime. FEBRUARY 2018 – No. 35 year I worked with offend- is an issue that continues to dom- I have seen firsthand, both per- He is likely ers to reduce their involve- inate my work as well as the na- sonally and professionally, how Waltham Forest Echo is an “ independent community newspaper. ment in crime. During tional headlines. Disappointingly, public services have been cut in to be one of We publish monthly and distribute Fthis time I also found myself work- by the time an officer got back to the last eight years. While it’s 20,000 free copies of each issue to libraries, cafés, pubs, and other ing closely with the Metropoli- me and took a statement about six tempting to point the finger of many struggling places around Waltham Forest. tan Police Service (MPS). My ex- weeks later, the voice message had blame at the officer investigat- perience of this was varied; while been deleted by my mobile phone ing the crime I reported, I know to manage Publisher some officers had an 'old sweat' provider. After admitting that the in my heart he is likely to be one David Floyd their caseload attitude, others actively support- phone number had been traced of many struggling to manage Editor ed my work – even as our services to someone I was likely to have their caseload, disillusioned ” James Cracknell were increasingly stretched to the worked with, the MPS dropped and frustrated by the lack of in 2015/16 to 80,323 in 2016/17, point of incapacity. the case, and the perpetrator was resources available to do what while 'sanction detections' went Designer I wasn’t surprised to receive an left free to reoffend. they became police officers to down from 10,751 (14.3 percent) Jonathan Duncan abusive voice message one morning Needless to say, I was angry do, while feeling pressure from to 10,222 (12.7 percent). It is a wor- Project Manager last year; some of the people I about this. I had been let down their seniors to 'squirrel away' rying trend. Anna Merryfield worked with were very challeng- by a service I had worked in part- cases difficult to solve. It’s about time our government ing and did not take kindly to my nership with for several years and Government and MPS statistics had a reality check and took action Contributors attempts to steer them away from was left concerned about the re- confirm that the proportion of to enable its public servants to do Shelly Berry harmful activities. sponse that I had received, with reported crimes concluding with the job they signed up to do – and Jon Seymour I reported this incident to the other people likely to experience some kind of sanction have gone stop trying to hide crime levels and Deborah Nash MPS, along with my concerns this too. People who, in a previous down. In London, reports of ha- the real impact of austerity mea- Graham Millington about the misogynistic content of role, I had actively encouraged to rassment went up from 75,441 sures in our city. Jo Sealy Helen Bigham Marie Theo Dan Carney Kate Robinson Michelle Edwards A new network for community news Members Adam Pike, Chris Lemin, Darrel Hunneybell, David Gardiner, David An introduction from James Cracknell, editor of Waltham Forest Echo Hamilton, David O'Driscoll, Dexter Coles, Graham Millington, Jean ello and welcome to tures, funding models, and edi- versity with the aim of support- founding members of ICNN Duggleby, Manual Arroyo-Kalin, Issue 35 of Waltham torial styles. ing hyperlocal journalism across and last month our editorial Melanie Strickland, Michael Grimshaw, Roland Karthaus, Ros Kane, Sanjoy Forest Echo. When Traditional media are typically the UK and has been helping to team travelled to Cardiff for the Kumar, Sarah Jones, Keith Magnum, the Echo was laun- owned by large corporations that address some of the common Building the Future of Commu- Renetta Neal, Graham Larkbey Hched in July 2014 there was little run multiple news outlets and problems faced by small indepen- nity Journalism conference at support available for new inde- can easily draw upon pooled re- dent publications. It was great to the Wales Millennium Centre, The member organisations of WFWellComm CIC are: pendent local publications – sources. This would always put hear, therefore, that the centre which coincided with the launch Community Transport Waltham dubbed 'hyperlocals' – to help hyperlocals such as ourselves at would be launching a new or- of ICNN. Forest, Social Spider CIC, HEET. share knowledge and seek advice. a disadvantage and many new ganisation called the Indepen- It was a fantastic day, with The last five years, however, has publications often struggled to dent Community News Network great ideas and initiatives being WFWellComm CIC Management Board: seen a resurgence in such publica- grow and build a stable income. (ICNN), a representative body shared. It showed that there is David Floyd (Social Spider CIC) tions being launched around the The Centre for Community for the hyperlocal news sector. still tremendous enthusiasm for Tom Ruxton (HEET) country, each with unique struc- Journalism is run by Cardiff Uni- The Echo is now one of the local journalism and that despite Helen Tredoux (Community Transport WF) competing pressures from inter- net platforms and much larger corporate-owned media, hy- perlocals can thrive. I was also invited to speak on a panel called 'Why print is not dead' and argued that the printed form remains the most effective way for local publications to reach their communities. Waltham Forest Echo In this month's paper we have a The Mill, 7 - 11 Coppermill Lane, E17 7HA particularly eclectic mix of arti- E [email protected] cles, including features on a new T 0208 521 7956 Bulgarian bookshop on Page 5, The Echo began with Big Lottery funding. a 'house of horrors' on Page 7, and a look on Page 9 at how

Waltham Forest Echo is a member of child mortality rates during the IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor of The Press. For more information First World War contributed to the on the Echo’s complaints policy and birth of the welfare state. how to make a complaint visit: A visual narrative of the 'Building the Future of Community Journalism' conference drawn by Caroline Chapple from Scarlet Design Group walthamforestecho.co.uk/complaints I hope you enjoy the paper. No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 3 Feature A Bulgarian bookshop has become NEWS a popular community hub P . 5

800 new homes Charity appeals for help altham Forest Coun- cil has struck a deal Wworth around £60m with developer Taylor Wimpey following burglary for the construction of more than 800 homes in Leyton. Equipment worth nearly £2,000 stolen from Wood Street First The council is selling the land opposite Leyton Orient's Match- small charity based in a small group and this sort of room Stadium, currently occupied Wood Street is appeal- thing will really affect our ability by The Score Centre, a modern ing for help from local to hold our regular schedule of sports and leisure complex. Last people after nearly all community events.” year the council agreed to build Aof its equipment was stolen. Wood Street First has been run- new sporting facilities at nearby Thieves broke into a storage unit ning since 2011, holding inclusive Ive Farm, intended to replace those in Walthamstow over the new year events in and around the Wood at The Score Centre. period and stole equipment owned Street area and supporting other As part of the deal, Taylor Wimpey by Wood Street First worth £1,745. groups to raise money for their will build 816 homes, a new 'civic The charity organises community own charitable ends. The charity square', health hub, and commer- events in partnership with other recently staged its largest and cial facilities; subject to planning local groups and has now launched most successful community event permission. The deal commits the a JustGiving fundraising page to in partnership with Woodside developer to providing a minimum recoup its losses. Primary Academy, consisting of a of 25 percent affordable housing. Founder and chairman Graham circus and fair attended by more Hodgkiss said: “The lock-up was than 1,400 people. broken into sometime on the night of the 30th December. They took Teach technology more than £1,700 in equipment in- ocal charity Age UK Wal- cluding gazebos, our large marquee, To help Wood Street First replace tham Forest has been along with several items of expen- its stolen equipment: L granted nearly £12,000 to sive PA and sound equipment, stage Visit justgiving.com/ help elderly people in the borough lighting systems and video cameras, crowdfunding/woodstreetfirst learn to use technology. a lot of which had only recently The donation from Morri- been acquired by the group.” If you have any information about sons Foundation is enough to Police are investigating the break- the break-in, call the police non- run eight workshops throughout in but no arrests have yet been made. emergency line 101. Alternatively, 2018. Emma Tozer, from Age UK It is suspected the people responsi- contact Crimestoppers anonymously: Waltham Forest, said: “Getting ble have targeted other garages and Call 0800 555111 online can make a real difference businesses around Walthamstow. Visit crimestoppers-uk.org to an older person's quality of life. Wood Street First founder Graham Hodgkiss at the scene of the crime Graham added: “We are only However, many older people are still very unsure and baffled about where to begin. “We are delighted to receive this grant from the Morrisons Foun- Number of empty homes revealed dation that means we can deliver these workshops free of charge Council defends record on bringing vacant properties back into use across Waltham Forest.” wenty-six homes in Council were failing to make use and Waltham Forest needs to be Waltham Forest have of Empty Dwelling Management given the powers and resourc- These homes Boost for market been sitting empty for Orders (EDMOs) to take over es to bring empty homes back “ a decade or more, a properties vacant for at least two into use.” could be turned strategy for improving FreedomT of Information request years. Nationally only 19 coun- Councillor Khevyn Limbajee, Walthamstow Market has revealed. cils in England and Wales said cabinet member for housing, re- into affordable A is being drawn-up by Of 222 vacant properties in the they had used an EDMO in the sponded: “In the last year our Waltham Forest Council. borough, 34 have not been lived past five years. empty property grant scheme has places to live Priorities for Europe's longest in for at least two years, the time Local Liberal Democrat cam- brought eleven empty properties street market include better stall after which local authorities can paigner Bob Sullivan said: “At up to the Decent Homes Stan- for those that layout; public realm enhancements use legal powers to take control a time when the homelessness dard, which were subsequently including ‘stopping’ places; plant- of them. crisis is worsening and more let to households on the coun- need it across ing and landscape improvements; The figures were revealed as and more people are sleeping cil’s waiting list. We also have a London decluttering the streetscape; and part of nationwide research out in the cold on our streets, it system where residents can report further improvements to shop by the Liberal Democrat Party is a scandal that so many homes properties left vacant for long ” façades similar to those already un- that showed 60,000 homes in locally are sitting empty. periods so we can look at what show that a property has been dertaken at each end of the market. England and Wales had been “These homes could be turned we might be able do to turn it empty for at least two years and A report states: " Walthamstow empty for two years or more and into affordable places to live for into a new home for people who has been vandalised or used for Market does not present a particu- 11,000 had been unoccupied for those that need it across London. need it. ‘anti-social purposes’. Councils larly coherent offer. There are clear more than ten years. “The government needs to ur- “Using EDMOs is a complex must also demonstrate that the opportunities to improve the com- It also showed that local author- gently review the current system and lengthy process. To secure an property is ‘causing a nuisance mercial offer, public realm, and ap- ities including Waltham Forest which is clearly not working EDMO the local authority must to the community’.” pearance of the market." 4 No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO NEWS Apology over delay to station's new lifts Fire alarm fault at Blackhorse Road has postponed opening of its lifts for a year of work to electrify the route delay to this work and thank pas- between Gospel Oak and Barking. sengers for their patience.” People in However, in addition to a series The Gospel Oak to Barking line “ of engineering mistakes that led reopened on 15th January follow- Walthamstow to a further closure of the line ing the installation of new over- for several weeks in 2017 and head electric lines that will enable have to travel into 2018, an ongoing technical four-car electric trains to run. The problem with the new lifts means new trains are now being tested so much they are yet to be opened for use and are due to be launched on the a year after their original opening line this spring. further to find date. This is despite the electri- Of eleven railway stations in fication work on the line now Waltham Forest only four cur- a station that's being complete. rently provide step-free access, accessible A spokesperson for Network using ramps. Blackhorse Road Rail, which has led the improve- is due to become the fifth. The Road because I can't,” but I will ment works, said: “The lifts at plans to improve accessibility at when there are lifts,” she said. Blackhorse Road have been de- the station were first announced “People in Walthamstow have layed because of issues with inte- six years ago. to travel so much further to find a grating them into the fire alarm Sheila Gadsdon, vice-chair of station that's accessible. You have Work continues on one of the new lift shafts at Blackhorse Road Station system, which is critical for their local charity Shopmobility Wal- to plan your journey a long way etwork Rail has The lifts to the London Over- safe use. tham Forest, told the Echo that in advance. apologised over a ground platforms were supposed “We have now rectified these issues travelling on public transport “The new lifts will make a lot year-long delay to to be ready for use when the line and started works on site which are for people with disabilities was of difference to people like me new lifts at Black- first reopened to the public in Feb- expected to finish at the end of Feb- often a frustrating experi- because we haven't been able to Nhorse Road Station. ruary 2017, following eight months ruary. I’d like to apologise for the ence. “I don't use Blackhorse even use Blackhorse Road.” Advertisement Come and experience howdifferent a school can be! Something special is happening at Willow Brook Primary School and Nursery! We would like to invite prospective parents to visit to see for yourself how we nurture our young people, giving them a rich diet of art, philosophy, music, modern foreign languages, local and international trips and so much more. As a proud member of the Griffin Schools Trust, we really do believe in the power of culture and community. Underpinning all we do is a drive and determination to give all children an education which Call us to book an appointment we can prove is world class. Our free offer of clubs, ranging from Mandarin, Coding and Programming, Latin and Ballroom dance to Ukulele, sports, chess and performance, means your child’s horizons Willow Brook Primary School & Nursery are widened by the passions and expertise of our staff. Every year our Year 5 pupils visit France to 190 Church Road, Leyton, London E10 7BH learn how to ski, at absolutely no cost. Every summer we celebrate the arts by hosting the Griffin Arts Tel: 020 8539 1428 Festival, and each year take part in the Griffin Sports Festival as well as a Science Symposium. [email protected] www.willowbrook-gst.org We are a values driven school with the most extraordinarily talented staff and wonderful site, located @WillowBrookGST next to Jubilee Park and the edge of the Hackney Marshes. No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 5 News Residents invited to help 'occupy' FEATURE Walthamstow Town Square P . 6 Time to read and reflect A Bulgarian bookshop in Walthamstow has become a popular community hub by Jon Seymour he transformation of a extends outside into the garden worn and empty shop they are developing at the back. into a literary hub was “Their roots remain buried/deep not immediate. It took in the earth/and their shadows in Ttwo women four months working our dreams.” Again Dimitrova, at what they do best; making cre- the conclusion of The Shadows ative change. of the Trees, translated by L Pop- After walking in one day I dis- va-Wightman. covered this book café hides one In the year since opening, they of Walthamstow's secrets – here have hosted 23 readings, authors' lives the largest Bulgarian com- presentations, and poetry events. munity in London. Together like One highlight was an around the inter-leafed pages sat the coffee world night, a dozen poems were drinkers, the mothers and tod- performed in the original lan- dlers, the quiet laptop tappers, guage, and then in English trans- friends meeting for a chat, the lation; linking Scotland, Germany, browsers and buyers who find to Spain, Portugal, France, Brazil, hand the literature of home. Nepal, China and England, “It’s a risk and a bother/in this through Bulgaria. The other words world that’s still male,” John of verse knitted the other worlds Balaban translates Blaga Dimitrova’s of Walthamstow. If Once Upon a poem A Woman Alone on the Road; Time has a mission, that evening written when she was 70 while be- was its statement. coming the country’s first vice pres- There is a children’s room at ident in the post-communist era. the back. Tuesday mornings they The Once Upon a Time Book Café in Station Road, Walthamstow How did the book café come hold baby art classes, host birthday about? I asked the co-found- parties and magic shows. A good er, Elina: “It was my inspiration selection of children’s books is part on a mountain top.” That would of the over 1,600 they have in stock. explain the deep blue covering Perhaps these children here now the walls. While working togeth- will not have the experience Elina er, Melina and Elina talked about had working in a hotel during the what they were reading, their day, studying English at night; love of literature and problem finding friendship with other im- of finding Bulgarian books. migrants was not enough, and inte- Open the Rorschach of a divided gration was difficult. Finally a crisis Europe; this mountainous region overwhelmed her; she quit her job, following the Danube down to the describing herself as “a ghost”. Black Sea lies hidden behind the Reading was her consolation, but marbles of adjacent Greece. But in a city of bookshops, hers was those ancients made Thrace a a face of hunger pressed against region of wild mystery. Where their outside glass. No such ceiling mystics abound, can the poets be covers a mountain. One rare bright far behind? And don’t we all love London morning, she woke with a good story? that rarest of gifts, a transforming Every beginning opens the dark; idea. It took a year to locate, lease, so they named their book café then lift the latch on a dream. on the corner of St James Street One Saturday I raised my coffee 'Once Upon a Time'. The imagi- to my lips, and my eyes to the back nation is the place to bind conver- of the shop, where a child sat ab- sations within and among commu- sorbed in its book. Melina and nities around a good read and a Elina were busy at the till. The Elina and Milena run the Once Upon a Time Book Cafe in the St James area of Walthamstow good cuppa. In good weather, this child sat, becoming the future.

Advertise in Waltham Forest Echo With a monthly circulation of 20,000 copies and an engaged readership the Echo is a great option for local advertisers to reach a wide audience. To find out more please email [email protected], or call 020 8521 7956. 6 No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO NEWS

More protests planned over Mall development Residents invited to help 'occupy' town square

n 'occupation' protest is being planned this month against plans to build over part of Walthamstow Town Square. In December Waltham Forest Council granted planning permission to Capital & Regional, the owners of The AMall, for construction of 502 homes as part of an extension of the shopping centre that would see the town square reduced by one third. However, the scheme proved highly controversial with opposition to the proposed 29-storey height of the development and the provision of only 20 percent 'affordable' housing. Now the Save Walthamstow Town Centre campaign group is organ- ising a protest on Saturday 24th February described as an 'occupation' of the town square. In an appeal to local residents on Facebook, the group posted: "'Affordable' means 'unaffordable' for most people in this borough. These developments are aimed purely at making big profits for shareholders." In a list of demands, the campaigners have called for "mass council house building and social rents", "private rent control" and "market changes subject to a borough-wide ballot”. Residents demonstrate over new council plans to build on three areas of green space surrounding Lea Bridge Station in Leyton Credit Karl Weiss At the demonstration starting from 1pm there is scheduled to be live music, dance, children's games, and an open mic for people to speak. Meanwhile, a campaigner who started a petition that gained more than 2,000 signatures in opposition to The Mall's redevelopment has Concern over plans to written an open letter to Mayor of London Sadiq Khan. David Gardiner said: "The recent decision of the (Labour con- trolled) Waltham Forest Council to hand over one-third of the public build on 'pocket park' open space of the town square to developers Capital & Regional to build more shops and four enormous high-rise blocks of luxury flats Proposal for 300 homes in Lea Bridge Road unveiled by council is shameful in the extent to which it gives in to the commercial pres- sures that you are resisting in the land deals under your direct control." new town centre impact of a proposed further 300 cil-owned sites in Lea Bridge Road The mayor's powers include the ability to 'call in' large planning could be created in homes in the area. would be designated for 'afford- applications that affect the implementation of the London Plan, al- Leyton as part of A demonstration in Lea Bridge able' housing, according to plans though he has yet to do so for this application. Waltham Forest Coun- Road was held by residents last presented at a recent exhibition. In a statement following December's planning committee meeting Acil's plans to build thousands of month to raise awareness of the On its website the council states: at which the application was approved by four votes to one, Coun- homes in the area. council's plans. Claire Weiss, who “We are at the early stages of de- cillor Jenny Gray, the committee chair, said: “This planning appli- The proposal to develop three is part of a group representing velopment proposals for the sites cation has attracted a great deal of interest and raised understand- areas of open space surrounding people living in the Lea Bridge and as such, this represents the able concerns but everyone can be assured our committee examined Lea Bridge Station were unveiled area, said: “We are extremely early stages of public engagement the proposals in great detail to ensure we reached the right decision. by the council in December, with concerned on the environmental for this specific site, following the "We concluded the scheme’s many public benefits outweigh any residents being invited to have issues of flood risk, wind tunnels, conclusion of the broader consul- local impacts but our approval of the plans depends on Capital & their say. It includes a 'landmark' excess urbanisation and density. tation undertaken in respect of Regional meeting clear and cast-iron conditions to ensure the new 22-storey tower adjacent to the The idea of a Lea Bridge town the Lea Bridge and Leyton Vision. Mall is a success for everyone." railway station, plus a 14-storey centre sited on the crossroads with “An initial brief has been devel- and six-storey block on sites either the heavy-traffic Orient Way and oped with BPR Architects and side of Orient Way. Argall Way is madness. AR Urbanism... The process of 'Affordable' means However, local people have al- “We also are very anxious that consultation and engagement for ready voiced concerns around the any new build by the council, es- these three sites will be ongoing 'unaffordable'“ for most loss of a 'pocket park' home to pecially on its own land, should be with several additional opportu- dozens of trees, and a further in- for social housing. As we under- nities for the local community to crease in housing density. stand it, the cost of building high engage in the process prior to the people in this borough. Construction of 300 homes in towers on the edge of the river formal planning consultation. three towers up to 18 storeys tall is valley will put the costs of flats “At present, it is anticipated that an These developments are already under way at another site here out of the reach of those on application for planning will be sub- opposite the station, which was the council housing waiting list. mitted during the summer of 2019.” aimed purely at making big formerly home to industrial ware- “We can't see the sense of crowd- houses used by small businesses. ing this part of Leyton with high- profits for shareholders While no planning applications er-income people whose move To read more about the council's for the three other sites surround- here would clearly not release plans for Lea Bridge Road: ing the junction are likely to be any housing for the less well-off.” Visit walthamforest.gov.uk/ For more details about the protest on Saturday 24th February:” submitted for at least 18 months, At least 35 percent of the homes content/town-centres Visit facebook.com/savewalthamstowtowncentre residents are concerned about the proposed for the three coun- No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 7 History Graham Millington looks at child FEATURE mortality rates from a century past P . 9 Inside Walthamstow's house of horrors Chestnuts House resident Deborah Nash reveals some of the oddities to be found within its walls kind. No-one was sorry to see him leave.” One new One guardian explains that as a “ child she believed every inanimate year a corpse object could see, hear and feel. She’s always drawing faces with a was found in marker pen on our surplus veg on the kitchen table; once she attached the kitchen eyes, ears and whiskers to a taper- ing sweet potato, making it look were the knives that twisted” things so like a rat that no-one ever ate it. up. Squabbles broke out as to why At Easter 2015, two cakes landed the rodent population had increased in the kitchen: G’s apple cake and and whether this was due to a decline K’s Ukrainian penis cake. The latter in hygiene and cleaning standards or is a tall narrow sponge with white simply the sharp cold snap that drove icing covered in hundreds and thou- them in beneath the door. sands. Normally, it should be taller, One new year a corpse was found K says, and presented with a nest in the kitchen. It coincided with the of eggs. “Then this is the castrat- death of Israel's former prime min- ed version,” V remarks. ister, Ariel Sharon, after eight years The most memorable cake is G’s in a coma. The tiny dead mouse, Brexit cake. Baked to celebrate her drowned in a blocked-up sink of tenth anniversary living in the UK, dirty washing-up water, cast a it had a smart Union Flag topping chilly gloom over the house. G, made of marzipan. As we sliced always the practical one, set eight into it, cutting away bits of the flag, traps in the kitchen, caught two the news buzzed of the wrecking mice in two hours, threw them into ball of the EU Referendum, how plastic bags and bashed them to Scotland might remain in the EU, death with a frying pan. Chestnuts House, an 18th Century mansion in Hoe Street, is a council owned building let to property guardians Credit Marla Jane Lynch how Northern Ireland might unite Mouse-bashing, however, was with the Republic, and how Scot- not a good long-term solution; G t would be easy to believe that empathy and openness towards refrain from stealing it, dates for land and a united Ireland might said it was bad rodent karma to there are all kinds of nefar- different mindsets and points of dinner get-togethers and tributes to club together with Gibraltar and be killing mice in one room and ious goings-on behind the view, and the best is shared out David Bowie, requests for the return form an alternative UK. Everything keeping Russian hamsters in the iron gates and brick walls of in our kitchen, across a table. of lost utensils, favourites in the seemed to be crumbling and all we next. The way forward was to get a IChestnuts House in Hoe Street. Over the years, we've celebrated football fixtures, and a list of sug- could be certain of at that moment cat, and this we did, restoring calm Is there a cult living there? Could Thanksgiving, Diwali, Ramadan, gested baby names (among them was the joyous demolition of our to our kitchen in the twitch of our the house really be a hidden held riotous Italian pizza parties, Goatee, Pamplemousse, Marrow; own flag and the sweeping away tortoiseshell’s tail. Perhaps, for the bomb-making factory? A couple sampled Polish, French, Indian and in the end the baby was called Felix). of its marzipan crumbs. mice at least, we are a Hammer with a baby in a pushchair told Ukrainian speciality dishes; reflect- The chalk drawings that blow If food was our bonding agent, mice horror house after all. me that each time they passed the ing the people who live here. in magically and anonymously building it reminded them of the The Chestnuts House kitchen is on to the fridge are often added setting for a Hammer horror film. down a corridor on the ground to by other hands in what the Not so our eastern European en- floor between the stable block and art world would call ‘an inter- gineer who came one day to fix the great hall. It is large, industri- vention’. I wrote sections of my the water heater above the kitchen al-sized with three cookers, two novel on the kitchen fridge. Set sink. Passing a silkscreen print of washing machines, seven fridges, in a fictional Chestnuts House, William Morris he nodded in rec- and an ice cream freezer. There is the opening chapter begins: “The ognition: “Karl Marx,” he said. no dishwasher. In this room we Coiled Chamber: Cicely arrived After the engineer had cleaned have funny, foodie, odd conversa- at Clock House at the end of a the soot from the boiler and the tions, ranging from house gossip summer spent in other people’s pilot light had leapt back to life (oh yes, we love it!) to cannibal beds, in places where she left her he asked if there were any rooms twins and concrete-mixing. You toothbrush and her scent behind, going. One couple's horror film is can wander in to make a cup of as well as her laughter, of the loud another's enchanted kingdom, it tea, intending to stay for as long abrupt kind. No-one was sorry to would seem! as it takes to boil the kettle, but see her leave.” Communal living is not for ev- exit three hours later, perplexed at An editorial intervention in eryone and proximity doesn't nec- where the time went; the kitchen yellow chalk made it this: “The essarily build intimacy. You can eats it up. Boiled Eel: Steve arrived at Cock think a housemate is a friend and Four years ago, two guardians House after a summer spent in that you know them very well and painted a fridge with blackboard other people’s sheds, in places then discover it’s all an illusion paint and since then it has been our where he left his aftershave and and you have no idea who they black box, recording messages in his shotgun behind, as well as really are. But proximity can build coloured chalks; to share food or his bacon slices of the loud rash Face masks made from pizza boxes in the Chestnuts House kitchen 8 No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO

Living Well Waltham Forest is a new project. It is funded by NHS Waltham Forest Clinical Commissioning Group (WF CCG) and London Borough of Waltham Forest and delivered by Age UK Waltham Forest. It aims to support residents of Waltham Forest to make achievable, positive changes to their lives and attain their goals in improving their quality of life.

Living Well Waltham Forest is a new project. It is funded by NHS Waltham Forest Clinical Commissioning Group (WF CCG) and LondonTime Commitment:Borough of Varying as offered on 1:1 WalthamWellbeing Forest and delivered Support by Age Volunteers UK Waltham Forest.basis It aims for a tominimum support of six months. residents of Waltham Forest to make achievable, positive changes to their lives and attain their goals in improving their quality of life. This volunteer role may involve supporting people to go to local clubs and join in with different activities, such as coffee clubs, storytelling and cinema visits and/or supporting them with their hobbies and interests, whilst theyTime buildCommitment: their confidence Varying as offered and seonlf-esteem. 1:1 Wellbeing Support Volunteers basis for a minimum of six months. Every person is individual so the support offered will vary accordingly. The support may be for a This volunteervarying role period may involve of time supporting and maybe people to offered go to loca lon clubs a 1:1and joinbasis in withor throu differentgh supporting a group of activities, such as coffee clubs, storytelling and cinema visits and/or supporting them with their hobbies peopleand interests, to meet whilst up they and build enjoy their confidence each other’s and secompany.lf-esteem. Every personThe skillsis individual that so are the supportimportant offered to willthis vary role acco rdinglyinclude:. The support may be for a varying period of time and maybe offered on a 1:1 basis or through supporting a group of people to• meetGood up and communication enjoy each other’s and company. motivational skills • Ability to think laterally and problem solve The skills• thatMaturity are important and sensitivity to this role include: • Confidentiality • Good• communicationExcellent listeningand motivational skills skills • Ability to think laterally• andFlexibility problem solve • Maturity• andReliability sensitivity • Confidentiality • Positivity • Excellent listening skills • Flexibility • ReliabilityAs we work with vulnerable people• DBSPositivity (formerly CRB) checks are required for these roles. We As we workwill witharrange vulnerable this people for you DBS and (formerly this will CRB) not checks cost are anything. required for these roles. We will arrangeFor this further for you information and this will not please cost anything. contact, Age UK Waltham Forest, Waltham Forest Resource Hub For further(North), information 58 Hallplease Lane, contact, Chingford, Age UK Waltham E4 8EU, Forest, Tel: Waltham 020 8558 Forest 5512Resource or Hub (North), 58 Hall Lane, [email protected] Chingford, E4 8EU, Tel: 020 8558 5512 or www.ageukwalthamforest.org.uk Email: [email protected]: Website: www.ageukwalthamforest.org.uk Website: No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 9 Column The small business that's bringing HISTORY a splash of colour to people's lives P . 11 The birth of the welfare state Graham Millington looks at child mortality rates from 100 years ago

The local “infant and orphan asylum together with the children’s hospital in Hoe Street all received extra funding The local infant and orphan” asy- lum together with the children’s hospital in Hoe Street all received extra funding and indeed across the nation funding for child welfare continued to rise irrespective of the financial demands of the war. In Walthamstow, the results were clear but perhaps disappointing. Mothers and babies pose at Brookscroft Child Welfare Clinic, Walthamstow, in 1915 Credit Vestry House Museum/Waltham Forest Council By 1920 the mortality rate was 60/1000 but then hovered around n 1917 the Bishop of London birth within 36 hours of delivery. compulsory. But in Walthamstow, ing of childcare while deaths by this figure for many years. Sur- gave a speech to publicise the A health visitor would then be des- Dr Elliot had already started the syphilis, accidental drowning, prisingly in 1937, just before the horrific fact that each year patched to assess the baby’s envi- voluntary Walthamstow Child wilful neglect, and even murder, Second World War, it was still in 100,000 babies were dying ronment and provide support for Welfare Society, formed: “To carry all featured on occasion. Prema- the high fifties despite the advanc- Iwithin a year of their birth. the mother if required. The Local out similar work to that suggested ture births were a major problem es in social welfare. He said: “While nine soldiers died Government Board, which held the by the Local Government Board.” as was summer diarrhoea, often By 1918, Walthamstow had ex- every hour in 1915, twelve babies responsibility to oversee the work With the passing of the act, caused by milk stored in unhygien- tended its health services to include died each hour [in 1917]. So it was of local authorities, would fund Walthamstow appointed Dr Rach- ic conditions. not only children but adults too, as more dangerous to be a baby than half the cost of the health workers. ael McKenzie to be in charge of This was sometimes compound- everyone confronted the econom- a soldier.” However, the scheme was voluntary antenatal classes and Waltham- ed by unknowing mothers using ic and social difficulties caused by Such figures were not lost on and at the outbreak of war in 1914, stow Child Welfare Society became a banned feeding tube device the war. In this manner the welfare the Medical Officer for Health Walthamstow had not taken it up. formalised. It was staffed by two dubbed the ‘baby killer’ because state evolved. Incidentally, only in in Walthamstow Urban District, A 1914 medical report cited rea- unpaid female doctors and two it was difficult to clean and har- the UK did infant mortality reduce J.J.Clarke. Every year in his ex- sons why. Three health workers salaried nurses whose work was boured lethal bacteria. The re- during the war. tensive reports, which are avail- would be required at a cost of underpinned by numerous female placement banana-shaped bottle Had it not been for the war able for scrutiny at Vestry House £2,500 for antenatal and postna- volunteers accepted “from the edu- saved many lives, as did 80 percent Walthamstow might have con- Museum, he provided considerable tal care, but: “Public opinion is not cated and leisurely classes”. of mothers who breast-fed their tinued its leisurely pace at com- information about the health and yet sufficiently educated to appre- This was not unusual during the new-born; a practice encouraged bating infant mortality despite welfare of local people. This in- ciate the possibilities of compen- war, because middle-class women by the Infant Welfare Society. the urgings of medical profes- cluded figures for infant mortality. sating results.” nationwide saw volunteering as Consequently the health workers sionals who repeatedly indicated Prior to the war, the infant mor- Then came the First World War a way of supporting the country sought to provide advice and that many of the deaths could be tality rate – which indicates the and the shocking truth that many in time of need. They were very support across a broad range of avoided. Education and practical number of babies who had died of the eager and patriotic young successful and, as the 1916 report issues. There was a need to teach advice was vital, together with in- per thousand births – had declined men flocking to the recruitment reveals: “The ladies show great expectant women how to look creasing facilities and better train- from 159 in 1900 to 78 in 1914. centres nationally were being re- willingness and keenness for the after themselves and be given ing for professionals. However, much of this was deemed jected because they could not work and have become qualified healthcare when needed. New It is interesting to note that in 2017 to reflect the rapidly dropping birth meet the physical requirements. for the work they undertake.” mums were taught about person- there were 12,320 people aged 100 rate rather than through remedi- The recruitment process served But why were so many babies dying? al and home hygiene, food prepa- or older, which is an increase of 74 al action. The Midwives Act 1902 as a survey of men’s health and And what response was needed? ration, homecraft, and given in- percent in ten years. These were had enhanced the professionalism the results were not good. This Nearly half of babies died within sights into providing nursing care born during the First World War of this service but it took the re- prompted the government to take a the first week of life, with causes for their own children. This work and have been the beneficiaries forming Liberal-led government greater direct interest in the health that indicated the need for greater was underpinned by government of a growing and more effective to pass the Notification of Births and welfare of its people. antenatal care. Bronchitis, pneu- giving free milk to poor women, welfare state for their whole lives – Act in 1907, requiring parents to In 1915, the requirements of the monia and enteritis prevailed in insisting on better training for mid- a welfare state that was very much notify the health inspector of any Notification of Birth Act became the homes of women unknow- wives, and funding dental care. prompted by the demands of war. 10 No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO LETTERS

four tower blocks, three being to help beat dementia in 2018. young people, is calling on local We are owed much taller than anything around. Whether you give an hour, a day, Did you people to 'band together' behind And planning policies are on the or more, please visit alzheimers. families affected by cancer by donat- scrap heap! org.uk/getinvolved to find out how ing just £2 to get their own special an apology The shopping centre will be you can unite against dementia. know Beryl Band Against Cancer wristband. a building site for many years Cancer can leave a lot of people Dear Waltham Forest Echo thereby encouraging shoppers to David Morris Swain? not knowing what to say or do, go elsewhere. The road network Alzheimer’s Society Services and feeling helpless. Donating and I was at the planning meeting will be clogged with huge delivery Manager for North East London Dear Waltham Forest Echo getting your band is a simple way which decided The Mall's rede- lorries. The Mayor of London has to show your support for CLIC velopment. I read with interest stated that plans should “ensure I'm a motorcycle historian research- Sargent and anyone you know your article on Page 3 last month tall buildings respect the character ing the life and career of Beryl who might be going through a (Labour councillors approve tower of existing neighbourhoods” but Residents' Swain, a remarkable Waltham- really tough time. plans despite protest, Issue 34). I this advice was ignored. The en- stow woman who became the first Our recent Hidden Costs research left the meeting after two hours vironment needs to be protected female rider to contest the Isle of showed that 79 percent of young because I saw it was a done deal but the open space will be reduced views ignored Man TT races, in the 1960s. After people felt cancer had a serious and there would be no discussions by one third and many trees de- she retired from racing she worked impact on their emotional wellbe- about residents' concerns. Regard- stroyed. Dear Waltham Forest Echo for many years in the Waltham- ing, 70 percent experienced depres- ing the inflammatory statement Our only hope now is to con- I live in the shadow of the two stow Sainsbury's supermarket. I sion during their cancer treatment, by Councillor Jenny Gray, ques- vince the finance director of Cap- towers in Montague Road and believe she passed away ten years and 83 percent of young people ex- tioning people's awareness of the ital & Regional that it is not com- in the past four years I have never ago. If you knew Beryl or know perienced loneliness. grimness of Walthamstow Town mercially viable and the plans been contacted by Waltham of anyone who did, please contact By helping us raise vital funds Square, she should have known have to be scrapped. The verdict Forest Council concerning the re- me at: [email protected] and awareness you will be 'band- that as the land is council owned it on the politicians will have to wait development, even though I and ing together’ behind children, was within their remit to improve for the election in May. my neighbours will be direct- Mat Oxley young people and their fami- it. When I moved here in 2009 it ly affected [We demand fair say Finchley lies when their lives are turned was Waltham Forest Council Adrian Stannard in estate's future, Issue 34, Page upside down. With your help, which deliberately degraded the Avon Road, Walthamstow 7]. I have come to the conclusion CLIC Sargent can reach those space, ripping out all the beds that the council will do what the families through our support and leaving a bleak space by the council wants and will not listen Band workers and nurses who provide bus station for smokers and street to the many voices who shout out practical, emotional and finan- drinkers to hang out in. I think United in the their concerns on this issue and cial support, to help minimise the Councillor Gray owes concerned many others. together to damage cancer causes to young residents an apology. fight against It is also worth noting that the people beyond their health. council abolished the only elected save lives To find out more about World Chrissy Ansell tenants' body (the tenants' council) Cancer Day and to get your own Walthamstow dementia early last year and is now 'training Dear Waltham Forest Echo Band Against Cancer wristband and selecting' tenants to consult go to clicsargent.org.uk/World- Dear Waltham Forest Echo with. Tenants in general do not World Cancer Day is on Sunday 4th CancerDay know what is happening and in- February, which is a great time to Meeting was I want to take the opportunity to formation is almost impossible to raise funds and vital awareness in the Charlie Straker thank local Alzheimer’s Society get from the council. fight for young lives against cancer. CLIC Sargent Fundraising supporters who united against de- I am deeply saddened that this CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading and Engagement Manager for an insult to mentia last year by fundraising, council is not acting openly and in cancer charity for children and North London

campaigning, and volunteering. the interests of local residents. Not Advertisement residents In 2017 Waltham Forest was only were objections overturned at chosen by Alzheimer’s Society a recent meeting on the [Mall] de- Dear Waltham Forest Echo as one of only ten communities velopment in Walthamstow town across England to receive special centre, there is a similar develop- The planning committee meeting support to become 'dementia ment proposed for the town hall. on 13th December was the best friendly'. Our Waltham Forest Properties are being built but local prepared I have attended in 40 team raised awareness of the con- people cannot afford them. years. It was also a total insult dition within schools by deliver- The council cabinet took the de- to residents and local democra- ing Dementia Friends sessions. cision recently to again put out cy. Usually the committee has the As a result, students at Highams for tender to an external contrac- same councillors on it for months Park High School were inspired to tor the repairs service for council 020 8508 5111 on end, but for this meeting two complete a school project on de- properties, when many tenants of them were changed – could mentia and learned to confidently are calling for an in-house service. that be to ensure the leadership talk about what the society does. I have been a council tenant for got the decision it wanted? Intel- They raised an amazing £1,350 for over 26 years and in that time I ligent complex questions were people with dementia. can honestly say that consulta- asked by the councillors but cu- With more than 2,000 people tion with tenants is at the worst Brick Built Lockup riously the officers had all the with dementia in Waltham Forest level ever. answers prepared. the need for us all to unite in the Storage unit shortly Often controversial applica- fight against dementia has never Paul Olford tions have some sort of modifica- been more pressing. From volun- Cookes Close, Leytonstone to become available. tion forced on the developer, but teering with Alzheimer’s Society’s £25 weekly, High Beach despite many policies not being new Side by Side service, joining Send your letters adhered to it was passed as pre- one of our fundraising events, or We welcome letter submissions of Tel: 020 8508 5111 sented. Now we lose 81 mature writing to your local MP, there are under 250 words. Email WFEcho@ trees and suffer the indignity of many ways people can get involved socialspider.com before 14th Feb. No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 11 Event An all-day rave will raise money COLUMNS for a local foodbank P . 13 In full colour Chase your dreams In her latest column on local small businesses, Waltham Forest In her latest column about The Mill community Business Network's Jo Sealy meets a colourful personality centre, Helen Bigham finds plenty of inspiration

alt Disney once Wednesday drop-in lunches, to said: “All our dr- The Mill Book Club, Scrabble eams can come Thursday, and pop-up pottery. true if we have the An upcoming workshop will Wcourage to pursue them.” be a Facebook training session Sharing a vision takes bravery aimed at small businesses, char- because no-one wants to be ities, and entrepreneurs. laughed at or have their brilliant Another long-standing group plan diminished. By taking the is the Asian Women's Support first step and speaking out aloud, Group, founded by Amarjit Kaur it can lead to collaboration with Jagdev. This was established supportive people who in turn can to support local Asian women help make an idea a reality. and build on their confidence For me, that first step was going through social get-togethers to university as a mature student and workshops, including ones in my 40s. Naively I applied, not such as healthy eating or learn- knowing how much hard work ing about wellbeing. was needed – but sometimes Recently, we relaunched our suc- knowing less can be the best way. cessful ‘Grow Your Idea’ cam- I had poor A-Level results but I paign. This is a community com- was still given the chance. petition, sponsored by St James Thanks to that initial faith, after Big Local and the Co-op Local three years' hard work I gained Community Fund. It aims to my degree. What kept me going enable individuals and groups to was my passion for the subject try new things, or build up an idea and cunning ways to keep up my to make it happen. Past winners motivation. Coffee and playpark include Marina Theodoropou- at Ikea was one strategy (The lou, who set up The Mill Voices, Mill wasn't around then). But I and Beth Kelly, who ran a ten- couldn’t have achieved my goal week art project with a group of without the backing of family and young people with learning diffi- friends; after all who can’t benefit culties from The Limes. from a helping hand? If you’ve got an idea why not The Mill prides itself as not contact Charlotte, the project Eleanor Mitchell, who started her business Colours By Eleanor last year only providing a community sp- coordinator, on charlotte@the- ace but also a place to en- mille17.org. Don’t end up a year leanor Mitchell lives life even when sleep deprived or poorly made so far. She now hopes to see courage local people to follow from now wishing you had started in colour. She believes I could still look ready for the day! the business develop into advising their dreams. From the Souper something today! that the colours you “This inspired me to set up a busi- on colours for the home. wear can greatly change ness of my own to share this ex- “To those thinking of starting Eyour appearance and confidence perience with others and get more their own business I would say within yourself and that the right colour out there.” work out the finances, set realis- shades will make you look bright- Eleanor also offers workshops tic goals for growth over the first er, radiant, and ready for the day. where friends can experience and year, and go for it! She set up Colours By Eleanor, understand the best colours to “I love being flexible with my time a colour consultancy business wear by season and she recent- for appointments and ensuring the based in Walthamstow, following ly had the opportunity to advise experience is enjoyable, informa- her training early in 2017. The The Sun newspaper for its Breast tive and fun. I love that people leave business provides colour consul- Cancer Awareness campaign on feeling happy.” tations; working with hair, skin what shades of pink suit different and eye colours to identify the right skin tones. shades for an individual based on “Doing the colours of someone a colour wheel used across fashion who has little confidence and and design industries. seeing them blossom with the For more information about Based on the hue or undertone, right colours has been so reward- Colours By Eleanor: clarity and depth of the colour, ing,” says Eleanor. “It starts with Visit eleanormitchell.com Eleanor advises on make up, what clothes but soon helps people to to wear, and how to wear it. She be more outgoing and confident Do you know a great small says: “I love colour, whether it’s in themselves, which is beautiful business in Waltham Forest with for the home or in clothes. I expe- to see and do for people.” a story to tell? rienced colour consultancy myself Eleanor is in no doubt that taking Email [email protected] about six years ago. It gave me the the leap to start her business has Visit walthamforestbusiness.co.uk confidence to try new things and been one of the best decisions she's The Mill is used by local people young and old Credit Natalia Panek 12 No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO LISTINGS

Upcoming Ongoing

Ten Days Of Vintage: Grand The Potato Puppet Playground Beginners Pilates Sunday Nature Conservation LBCV Zumba in Leyton Opening Party Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th Fridays, 1pm – 2pm Every first Sunday, 9.30am – 3.30pm Saturdays, 12pm–1pm Thursday 1st February, 6.30pm – 10pm February, 11am and 2pm St Gabriel's Church Hall, Havant Road, Waterwork Nature Reserve Centre, All Saints Church, 47 Melbourne Ten Days Of Vintage, 116 Hoe Street, CentrE17, 1 Church Hill, Walthamstow E17 3JF Lammas Road, Leyton E10 7QT Road, Leyton E10 7HF Walthamstow E17 4QR Walthamstow E17 3AB Often tired or achy? Want to improve Everybody is welcome to volunteer with Start your weekend off right with a fun, A celebration for the opening of TDOV, If you’re looking for something differ- your health in a positive, low impact, LBCV doing hands-on practical conser- energetic class. A dance-based fitness class a new vintage clothing shop, everyone ent for the kids to do this half-term, manageable way? Want to make lifestyle vation tasks. No experience is needed; we with a mix of different rhythms, heavily welcome! With a live performance from look no further than the Potato Puppet changes but unsure where to start? Come provide the training gloves and tools along influenced by Latin grooves. Zumba is for fabulous local singer songwriter Saman- Playground, a brand new interactive ex- and try this new pilates class for begin- with the tea, coffee and biscuits, bring your everyone, work at your own pace in this tha Whates and a free glass of fizz for all. perience. Featuring a mixture of spud- ners. We will cover the basics and every- own packed lunch. Please wear suitable no pressure, friendly class. No need to There will be loads of never seen before based arts and crafts and improvised one will be encouraged to work at the clothing for the weather and stout footwear. book just turn up with some water ready items and ten percent off everything on potato performance! Brought to you level that feels right for them. Strength- to dance and sweat. the night. Pop in for five minutes or bring by 6FootStories. en, stretch and relax and get your body Free a bottle and stay all night, it’s up to you. working at it’s best. Call 07757 766 950 £4 entry £8 entry, £6 concessions Email [email protected] Call 07939 873 518 Free entry Visit thecentre17.com Ticket price: £9 Visit lbcv.org.uk Email afrankli_zumbafitness@ Visit tdov.co.uk Facebook / The CentrE17 Call 07399 052 084 yahoo.co.uk Email [email protected] Email [email protected] College Amateur Operatic Society Experience the Art of Tea Visit truebalance.co.uk Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7.30pm – 10pm Legs Bums and Tums Yoga Classes in Walthamstow Village Leaf Reading Waltham Forest College, Forest Road, Saturdays, 11.15am–12.15pm Saturday 3rd and 10th February, 10am Thursday 22nd February 7pm – 8pm Circle Dancing Walthamstow E17 4JB YMCA East London, Waltham Forest Community Hub, 18A Hucks, 81 Grove Road, Every first Thursday, 2pm – 4pm 642 Forest Road, Walthamstow Orford Road, Walthamstow E17 9LN Walthamstow E17 9BU St Michael's and All Angels Parish We are a friendly, amateur musical theatre Church Hall, Northcote Road, company. Our July 2018 major produc- A fantastic way to tone your entire Local resident Gill has started affordable Rediscover the art of tea leaf reading on Walthamstow E17 7DX tion will be Seven Brides for Seven Broth- body with, special attention focused on yoga classes and is keen to ensure resi- your doorstep thanks to diviner Freya ers. We are seeking actors/singers/dancers. your legs, glutes and abdominal muscles. dents are aware yoga tuition is available Ingva. Evening sessions are now offered Dancing to world music. All welcome. No We welcome all ages who enjoy theatre. Combining conditioning and aerobic ex- to everyone regardless of age, fitness, with a choice of high quality, loose leaf need for a partner, just turn up. Friend- Rehearsal nights are Tuesdays (principals) ercises to reduce fat whilst shaping and flexibility and physique. Her goal is to teas and the chance to find out what the ly group. and Thursdays (chorus). Do come and lifting your legs, bum and tum! Bring a help people improve their physical and leaves reveal. find out more. bottle of water and wear clothes you’re mental health through yoga. £4 per session, comfortable to move in. £10 entry refreshments included Free entry 020 8556 3508 From £7 Call 07578 506 317 Call Call 020 8539 9474 £6 drop in [email protected] Call 07713 462 419 Email [email protected] Email Email [email protected] (discounts for advance payment) Email [email protected] Visit freyaingva.com/events Visit collegeoperatic.co.uk Call 07903 629 636 Choir 17 Visit yogaannie.org/schedule Email [email protected] Leytonstone Townswomen's Guild Wednesdays, 7pm – 8.30pm Highams Park Farmers Market Visit dancechloe.com Holiday Art Fun at The Mill Tuesday 27th February, 12pm The CentrE17, 1 Church Hill, Last Sunday of every month, 10am–3pm Thursday 15th February 2pm – 4.30pm St John's Church Hall, High Road, Walthamstow E17 3AB Highams Park Station Car Park, The Mill, 7-11 Coppermill Lane, Leytonstone E11 1HH The Avenue, Highams Park E4 9LA Walthamstow E17 7HA Choir 17 is a new, mixed choir for people A friendly group of ladies who meet to in Walthamstow who love to sing. Fun Meet the stall holders at this gem of a Picasso and me! Make your own animat- socialise, listen to speakers, hold quizzes, sessions, modern music and a focus on market in the station car park. On offer is ed self-portrait in the style of Picasso. A chat over tea and renew friendships. feeling great and sounding great. No need a wide choice of fresh products, including: free workshop led by local artists Jane Monthly bus pass outings to places of to read music, songs are taught by ear, Larkswood Honey, free range eggs, fresh Evans and Melissa Herman. For chil- interest, or to organised events by our but some singing experience would be meat direct, British cheeses, fresh fish, fresh Submit your listing dren aged 6 years+. All under 8s must federation. All welcome. helpful. Mostly you just need to have a apple and fruit juices and baked bread. Fill in the online form be accompanied. Limited spaces and love for music! booking is required. Free entry Free entry available at walthamstuff. Call 0203 566 6012 First three sessions free Email contact@ com/echo before Monday Free to book Email [email protected] essexfarmersmarkets.co.uk Email [email protected] Think Family, Think Safeguarding Visit choir17.com/joinus Visit essexfarmersmarkets.co.uk 15th February Call 0208 521 3211 Tuesday 27th February, 5.30pm – 10pm Leyton Orient Stadium, Oliver Road, Ravenswood for Eat or Heat 2018 Leyton E10 5LG Saturday 17th February, all day Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Are you a volunteer, member or worker Soon to Become Available Street, Walthamstow E17 9HQ in a faith, voluntary or community group Second incarnation of the all-day DJ ex- in Waltham Forest? Do you want to know Wood burning oven available to travaganza in aid of local food bank Eat more about your safeguarding responsibil- or Heat. Taking place across four venues ities and find out where to go for further rent suitable for cooking pizza & on the Ravenswood Industrial Estate: Wild- advice? The Think Family, Think Safe- Caribbean food etc. In a quaint card, Pillars, Mother’s Ruin, and The Real guarding event will bring together speak- Al Company. Line-up so far includes Simian ers and a range of adults and children Victorian garden setting £25 p/w Mobile Disco, Nicky Blackmarket, Reggae safeguarding practitioners from across Roast, Anna Prior (Metronomy), DJ Food, the partnership, such as health, social care, Flamingods, Pete Fowler, Eastern Front, Kat police, London Fire Brigade and special- Viewing at Georgian Village Richmond (Electronic 17) and many more. ist providers, to support you in your work with families and communities. 100 Wood St, Free entry, donations welcome Facebook facebook.com/ Free, buffet provided Walthamstow E17 3HX events/204851886739713 Visit eventbrite.co.uk/e/ Visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/ think-family-think-safeguarding- Tel: 07576 420578 ravenswood2018 tickets-37752399443 No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 13 Column Michelle Edwards casts a skeptical eye EVENTS over new council initiatives P . 14 Eat, heat, Leading performance rave, repeat A new performing arts school is opening in Walthamstow by Marie Theo by Dan Carney

Stars Awards, and more recently, ith 'Dry January' now the Love Your Borough Awards. a tedious memory, it's With thanks to funding received Wtime to start thinking from the LVE Charitable Foun- about leaving the house in search of dation based in Leyton, in part- fun, excitement, and repetitive beats. nership with The Big Creative Ravenswood for Eat or Heat 2018 Education, Leaders Communi- will ensure you won’t have to go far! ty is pleased to announce that we The second incarnation of the will be running a free performing all-day DJ festival, in aid of local arts school for children and young foodbank charity Eat or Heat, is a people on Saturdays, starting 17th joint effort from local music pro- February. We will be providing free moters Byrd Out and These Days. It access to either singing with drama follows last year’s highly successful or singing with commercial street inaugural event, which raised more dance, at the Big Creative Academy than £4,000 for the charity. in Clifton Avenue, Walthamstow. Ravenswood for Eat or Heat 2018 Our instructors currently work takes place on Saturday 17th Feb- with global brands such as MTV, ruary across four venues on the Ra- ITV, X Factor, UEFA, Disney, The venswood Industrial Estate; Wild- Brits, Sky, and leading music artists card, Pillars, Mother’s Ruin Gin from around the world. So why Palace, and Ravenswood’s newest not get involved? To qualify for a addition, The Real Al Company place you must be aged between cider taproom. seven and 18 years' old and live in The line-up so far sees established Waltham Forest or elsewhere in names such as Simian Mobile Dis- The Leaders Community performing arts school launches at Big Creative Academy this month East London. We also offer com- co, drum’n’bass legend Nicky mercial street dance sessions on Blackmarket, Anna Prior from f you’ve been looking for fun ways to inspire your pacity as contributing members of their communi- Wednesdays in Higham Hill, or Metronomy, Reggae Roast, and children and young people to keep fit and healthy ty, through the performing arts. We empower them to Fridays in Chingford. Flamingods rub shoulders with and take an active role in the community, Leaders become positive leaders and role models, enabling them faces from the steadily expand- Community could have the answer. to gain new experiences, support their personal devel- ing local music scene such as the I We are a not-for-profit organisation based in Waltham opment, build character, and succeed in the future. Our Eastern Front Soundsystem, Kat Forest set up to deliver socially inclusive initiatives that programmes connect learners to caring adults through To register or for further details: Richmond (Electronic 17), Vital support the health and wellbeing of children and young quality activities and mentoring. Call 07831 224 510 Sound, and General Echo. people, particulary those that are disadvantaged. Leaders Community continues to be recognised for Email enquiries@ Byrd Out’s Stephen Vitkovitch said: All our initiatives are designed to help children and its work with children and young people through leaderscommunity.org “Last year was a huge success, and young people get active, develop their talent, social various nominations and awards received from Visit leaderscommunity.org the atmosphere was electric, par- skills, confidence, academic achievements, and ca- Waltham Forest's Feel Good Sports Awards, Cultural ticularly with the legendary Fabio closing. This year we wanted the day to be even bigger, and with The Real Al involved too, and Great Danes arrive in Walthamstow Simian Mobile Disco headlining, it’s looking good!” asco are coming to tell grew up in the Swedish forest to The event – which follows the you some stories. A few become one of the leading expo- last Byrd Out/These Days collab- with words, many more nents of Skanian music. Andreas oration Walthamstow Electron- where melodies alone Tophoj [violin/viola] and Anders ic – is being supported by local Bweave the spell. Andersen [accordion and trom- businesses such as Stow Brothers, On Wednesday 14th February bone] came out of the Danish polka Sodo, and Perky Blenders, as well the Danish four-piece arrive in and waltz tradition. On top of that as Waltham Forest Council, and Walthamstow Village as part of there's string quartets, prog rock, the LVE Charitable Foundation. their UK tour following the release minimalism, the Beatles – they’ve Entry to all venues will be free, of sixth album, Interesting Times. all planted seeds in our mind and although there will be donation In a ten-year career, Basco have you never know which tune they’ll buckets at the event. Alternatively, brought in a horn section for one choose to bloom in.” you can donate online. album, recorded live with the Danish Radio big band on another, and created a disc with one of Scan- Tickets are £12 each, or £10 For more information: for concessions, plus £1.50 Visit facebook.com/ dinavia’s best singers. events/204851886739713/ “I learned the Scots fiddle reper- booking fee. For more information and to book: toire from the old, bearded gentle- To donate to Eat Or Heat: men at folk festivals,” fiddler and Visit stmarysmusichall.co.uk/ Visit https://mydonate.bt.com/ singer Hal Parfitt-Murray says, intro- calendar/2017/9/7/basco fundraisers/ravenswood2018 ducing the band. “Ale Carr [cittern] Danish folk band Basco are performing this month in Walthamstow 14 No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO COLUMN Prize draws, panels, and problems left unsolved In her latest column about life as a tenant at Marlowe Road Estate, Michelle Edwards casts a skeptical eye over new council initiatives he contradiction to their email from July address- seeking to remove it? According to to rank 15 items of equipment between public con- ing twelve long-standing fire con- the council, the survey is merely in terms of importance for a sce- A NASA sultations associat- cerns, despite two small fires at “part of a wider piece of ongoing nario in which we were stuck on “ ed with improving en- Northwood last year. The council work to determine whether there the moon. The entire proceed- survival exercise Tgagement with residents and the states its ambition “is that every- is an awareness of the scheme”. ings were witnessed by the port- failure of council staff to address body in Waltham Forest enjoys a We will find out soon enough. folio lead member for housing was used to the concerns of residents on the quality life” but how is this possi- Last October I attended a 'resi- and, obviously, he wouldn't want ground continues. ble when some residents can't even dent selection session' at the town anybody too mouthy to hold him determine our When I wrote about the fire get an assurance that they won't hall, at which the council was to account. Despite statements to safety fears of residents at the 21- die in their own homes? picking people to sit on its new the contrary, I believe that's why suitability for storey Northwood Tower situ- Last November the council Strategic Tenants and Residents the tenants' council was disband- ated in Marlowe Road for two launched an online survey to find (STAR) panel. This is a group of ed last year. the panel previous editions of the Echo, out how residents engage with trained council tenants and lease- My suspicion was confirmed ten volved in the training” and person- in the aftermath of Grenfell, I councillors and decision-making holders who will meet regularly days later by email: “Unfortunate- al development offer, along with wasn't exactly singing the praises in the community. Respondents to “influence strategic decision ly, while you scored well on the engaging in resident scrutiny.” of Waltham Forest Council. Six were entered into a prize draw making concerning housing ser- aspects to which you contribut- I should explain; the panels carry months on, the concerns I raised for a £50 Love2shop gift voucher. vices”. It is replacing the long-run- ed, the fact you missed the begin- more weight, and while I haven't are all still outstanding, with But what can we conclude from ning Waltham Forest Tenants' ning of the session meant that managed to speak with all attend- the exception of just one – the the survey question asking about Council, disbanded last year. you were unable to score on some ees, those I did speak with assured council has announced it is fitting community ward funding? I entered the council chamber key aspects through the first exer- me that I barely missed a thing by sprinklers in all 61 of its 'high-pri- Having allocated £10,000 of knowing I wouldn't be selected. A cise. As a result, we are unable to arriving late. Finding a voice and ority' housing blocks. funding annually in all 20 wards NASA survival exercise was used offer you a place on either of the engaging politically to safeguard As per my previous columns, of the borough to spend on local to determine our suitability for two standing panels. We would, the rights of the little people is tenants have yet to secure a reply initiatives since 2011, are they now the panel, with everyone asked however, like to invite you to be in- something yet to be met favourably.

Job Vacancy: Advertising & Distribution Manager

10 hours a week/£22K pro rata

Job Description Immigration legal advice Waltham Forest Echo has been in print for We specialise in affordable, Why use our service nearly four years, providing high-quality expert legal advice to help you in • over 30 years successfully local news and features each month. In immigration and citizenship cases: representing clients order to help expand the newspaper, we How we can help • award winning lawyers are employing a part-time manager who • help on all immigration matters • personalised, professional service can work to promote the paper locally, • permanent residency • available in community languages sell advertising to local businesses, and • student and work visas • affordable for you. oversee distribution around the borough. • welfare, housing and debt They will be responsible for community • citizenship and naturalisation engagement, ensuring that the Echo is • EEA family permits Contact us being stocked in the right locations and • asylum and family reunion. represented at the right events. 0207 354 9631 Deadline Friday 16th February [email protected] For information about fees, go to: For the full job description and to www.migrantsresourcecentre.org.uk/legal apply email [email protected] Registered charity (No. 291789) No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO 15 FOOD Life's a peach Local food blogger Kate Robinson offers up a sweet treat

Nutmeg Roast Peaches Allow five minutes preparation time plus 20 minutes for roasting.

Ingredients • Four ripe peaches, halved and with stones removed (alternatively use tinned, drained peaches or apricots) • One tablespoon butter • One tablespoon honey • Sprinkle of ground nutmeg, about half a teaspoon

Method i) Preheat the oven to 190°C/gas mark five; ii) Put the peaches in an oven-proof dish and dot them all with butter; iii) Drizzle with the honey, sprinkle over the nutmeg; iv) Roast for approximately 20 minutes, or until the peaches are getting soft and lightly browned (only roast for ten minutes if they are tinned peaches). v) Serve the peaches with ice cream, yoghurt, or low-fat creme fraiche. Nutmeg roast peaches

id anyone else feel healthy eating is much more sus- thought readers might appre- If you have any comments, ideas or tips about food in Waltham overwhelmed at all tainable if you allow yourself ciate a dessert recipe that is at Forest, please get in touch with Katie: by the ‘change your some sweet treats too. the healthier end. It is a great life’ posts and adverts It’s all about moderation and one to have up your sleeve as Email [email protected] Dover the new year period? having healthier versions of it is both superbly delicious Tweet @ktlovescooking I am all for having a healthy your favourite things when and simple to make. Hope you Visit katielovescooking.com lifestyle but, in my experience, necessary. With this in mind I like it!

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This shop at 543 High Road Leytonstone E11 4PB is intending to open in March and will be trading as Leyton Natural Health. Main services include stress relief, slimming, reflexology, relaxing and deep tissue massage. We hereby give notice that we have applied to the Licensing Authority at Waltham Forest Council Special Licence. Shop To Let Any person wishing to make £45 weekly suitable barber's shop, representations to this application may do beauty care, threading, or wedding dress maker. so by writing to Waltham Forest Council. Viewing: 'Georgian Village', 100 Wood St. Management Walthamstow E17 3HX. Xinhui Qiu Apply within T: 07576 420 578 16 No. 35 FEBRUARY 2018 WALTHAM FOREST ECHO

Support your local refugee supper club

Beautiful dining experiences serving up adventurous global cuisine which speaks of home Challenging negative migration narratives by bringing you stories from the people making the journeys

What we do Help refugees and migrants develop skills and build networks, assisting with integration and employment. Bring local and refugee volunteers together to strengthen the bonds of community and deliver a unique supper club experience.

In one year... Help us with our next steps We have hosted 6 supper We want to host more suppers this spring & summer. We’re a not for clubs, served 180 three profit Community Interest Company. We make money on ticket sales course meals, worked but the supper is the end of a long process, which needs funding. with 50 volunteers – l half of them refugees, Can you make a donation to support our supper clubs? l showcased 4 refugee Do you want to volunteer? chefs, welcomed 14 l Are you a refugee chef or storyteller or do you work with storytellers and poets, refugees who might want to be involved? and 1 theatre company l Do you have fundraising or marketing skills?

www.storiesandsupper.co.uk www.facebook.com/storiesandsupper twitter.com/stories_supper

Each month we will be giving this page over to a local community group, artist or event organiser, for free. If you have something you’d like to showcase or promote, please email us on [email protected] or call us on 020 3397 9797 for details of how to submit your information to us.