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ISSUE 85 – SUMMER 2019 Your main source of community news Image by: Andy Hughes

New festivals attract thousands to Croydon Music City - See P7 2 SUMMER 2019 Culture at the Highlights heart of all we do A new chapter for One of my proudest moments as the leader of Croydon Council, was in 2018 when we took the decision to libraries ...... 5 bring our library service back in-house to be run by the council, Find out about plans to invest in securing the future of every library across our borough. and improve your local library I am delighted that one year on, we have approved ambitious plans to invest in and upgrade all 13 of our libraries, ensuring they will be a fantastic resource for generations to come. The curtain’s It’s great to see this work under way, as we are building a about to rise...... 6 new library in and have begun consultation on Halls – have you got a £1m investment in Library, with more to follow. Equally, everyone in the Town Hall is as excited as I know your tickets yet? you are that the £40m refurbishment of the is now almost complete. This iconic venue is set to reopen this September, with new Choose Your Future....10 theatre companies, new restaurants, facilities for young people and much more. Shows are selling fast so get your tickets now How our campaign is helping young at www.fairfield.co.uk people with their mental health In our election manifesto last year, we committed to put culture at the heart of Croydon’s multi-million pound regeneration. This is both because we believe it is the right thing to do in Green Croydon...14 & 15 terms of transforming Croydon’s cultural offer, but it is also Making your borough greener key to creating new jobs for local people, as we attract more and cleaner companies to Croydon. The role culture plays at the heart of ’s youngest, most diverse borough is crucial. Croydon's hugely successful new music events, Cro Cro Take a stand against Land and The Ends, have brought tens of thousands of hate crime...... 19 visitors to our borough and created a wealth of opportunities for residents. Sign our pledge to say no to And we are looking forward to a fantastic summer hate crime programme, with town centre entertainment; Croydon PrideFest; Croydon Mela, and free summer activities and swimming for young people. Knitathon for We continue to see Croydon transform itself, from what some saw just a few years ago as a sleepy London suburb, dementia ...... 21 to today becoming a place that looks and feels like a modern A knitting marathon to help European City on the edge of London. raise awareness We are already talking to a number of universities about them locating at least part of their future campuses and educational offers in Croydon. I hope you agree we are making progress, but there is still a long way to go to repair the damage of past under-investment. We are determined this time to secure Croydon’s cultural heritage and future for generations to come.

To keep up-to-date with what’s going on, subscribe to Your Croydon and receive a free weekly email that’s full of news and information about your borough. Councillor Tony Newman Go to www.croydon.gov.uk/subscribe and visit Leader of the council @cllrtony /ilovecroydon @yourcroydon For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 3 CROYDON PRIDEFEST AND MELA RETURN Wandle Park will once again host a major entertainment double-bill over a single weekend when two of the borough’s best-loved events – Croydon PrideFest and Croydon Mela – return on 13 and 14 July. Last year an estimated 17,000 people flocked to the park over the two days. PRIDEFEST Warm-up parties for Croydon PrideFest are well under way as this popular Pride event – the second largest in the capital - returns for the fourth year. Lady Leshurr, David McAlmont, In the new cabaret tent, hosted perform a commissioned poem live and Soju (from RuPaul's Drag Race) by Batty Mama, will be Miss Prince, before each film. are headlining at the event, which Bellavie Lady Bee, LMT, DJ Ritu, and On Friday 12 July, Batty Mama promises to be bigger and better more. will host a cabaret event at The than ever with a brand new cabaret In addition to live music and Front Room, 37-39 St George’s Walk, tent. entertainment, dance, food and drink, Croydon. The free festival takes place on Croydon PrideFest-goers have the More information is available Saturday 13 July 12-10pm. opportunity to speak to businesses, on Croydon Pride Facebook page. It starts off with a parade from community groups and charities who Instagram @croydonpride and Croydon town centre to Wandle Park, will be promoting their work. www.croydonpride.org.uk. to live music from Rhythms of the City. Pre-festival events include a Croydon PrideFest this year won Also performing on the main stage mini queer film festival at David £8,000 funding from Arts Council are Son of a Tutu, Danny Beard, Asifa Lean Cinema with Rafiki screened England for an ‘exceptional’ bid, in Lahore, The London Mozart Players, on Tuesday 25 June and Tucked on addition to support from Croydon Kim Mazelle, and Bugeye. Tuesday 9 July. Well Versed Ink, will Council. MELA Apache Indian will top the bill when Croydon Mela returns for a mass celebration of Asian culture, creativity and cuisine at Wandle Park. The bhangramuffin star will be joined by Indian rock group Project MishraM, Najma Akhtar who will perform a sufi set, DJ Ritu and Croydon-based Stunflower. produced by Malti Patel of Apsara Arts The programme will include a mix From 1pm-8pm on Sunday 14 and Kathyrn Bilyard of Emergency Exit of South Asian classical and folk styles, July, the free event will showcase Arts. Bollywood, and dance forms from spectacular performances from local This colourful, playful family zone around the world. The audience will community arts groups as well as will feature The Bridge of Stories, even get to learn and practice classical international stars. an installation made of stories from and film dance moves. And for the first time, the mela has people across Croydon; a performance Croydon Mela has been supported been programmed by an all-female stage for dance, spoken word and by Croydon Council; Arts Council crew – Chetna Kapacee, Malti Patel poetry; and the World of Imagination England; Croydon Cultural Partnership; and Anusha Subramanyam - all from tent, featuring close-up interactive LV; Wilmott Dixon; Sunrise Radio and Croydon, placing the community firmly performances and a workshop area for Colours TV. at the heart of the festival. drawing and craft. Malti Patel said: “It showcases the There will be something for Anusha Subramanyam of Beeja vibrant diversity of Asian arts and everyone, with a fantastic array of Dance has programmed the Dance culture and offers something for every food and entertainment for all ages. Dhamaka Stage to showcase some generation and every community.” In addition to the main stage, there of the best dance companies from For more information visit will also be Mela Rung Family Zone, Croydon and beyond. www.croydonmela.com 4 SUMMER 2019 Street Live is back

Live music, dance and theatre has returned to Croydon High Street for a second successive summer, with something on offer for all the family. Street Live, which is organised by Croydon Council and 20 and 21 July. Croydon Business Improvement District (BID), launched on 9 There will also be entertainers from Covent Garden June, opened by Apsara Arts – Croydon Cultural Dance. wowing crowds and, for the first time, the beach will be This summer’s activities are the first in High Street since coming to the High Street – giving people the opportunity it permanently became a pedestrianised zone in April. to enjoy the seaside without having to get in the car or Busk Stop returns, providing live music every other Friday jump on the train. between 5pm and 8pm, to get people in the mood for the Creative Arts company Scanners Inc are also returning weekend and for the first fortnight of July, Wimbledon Live to High Street and on 17 August, there will be a BMX is back – giving everyone the chance to catch all the tennis exhibition, with riders performing amazing and exhilarating action on a big screen throughout the tournament. tricks. Towards the end of July there will also be the chance for A full programme of events can be found at families to get competitive, with nine holes of crazy golf on www.checkoutcroydon.com

Join the Windrush celebrations Celebrations are under way with a host of Croydon events including a celebratory dinner, street party and thanksgiving service paying tribute to the borough’s Windrush community. The term Windrush generation refers to those invited to the borough’s diversity and the impact different communities relocate in Britain from their homes in Commonwealth have had on the British way of life. countries between 1948 and 1971. The first significant number The celebration includes the continued exhibition at arrived at Tilbury docks aboard HM Empire Windrush on 22 Croydon Museum, showing artefacts from the 1940s and June 1948 from the Caribbean, although migration was also 1950s telling the story of Croydon’s Windrush generation, and from Africa and Asia. a Windrush exhibition coming this September to the newly- National Windrush Day was on Saturday 22 June and opened Fairfield Halls. Croydon celebrated with a Windrush street party & Caribbean Croydon Council is supporting a range of different cookout in the town centre. community events across the celebration. Visit www.croydon. organised a multi-faith Windrush gov.uk/community/commonwealth-windrush to find out thanksgiving church service on Sunday 23 June to celebrate more about the upcoming events. For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 5 Stormzy’s come home Stormzy came home this month - when a stunning portrait of the artist and his mum arrived at the on loan from the National Portrait Gallery. The image of the chart-topping grime artist from with his mother Abigail Owuo was taken by Olivia Rose, the photographer behind This is Grime, the book that charted the rise of the music phenomenon. It has been lent to Croydon Council as part of COMING HOME, a major new initiative from the National Portrait Gallery to lend 50 portraits of iconic individuals Image by: Olivia Rose to places across the UK with which they are most closely associated. The exhibition officially opened for a year on Tuesday 4 June, in the Exhibition Gallery, Museum of Croydon, . It also features an installation by Thornton Heath PINS said: “Croydon...my home, Stormzy's home, our artist PINS, inspired by the portrait and exploring the home. For us, family, self-belief, passion, and community, theme of home. have enriched us both internally and externally. Using these Photographer Olivia Rose told Your Croydon about foundations, we have shaped our paths, brick by brick.” the day she took the snap: "It was a real honour to see To find out more about the installation follow Stormzy talk at Oxford University that day, he's such a @museumofcroydon on Twitter and Instagram humble and brilliant guy and it was just so dreamy to see Visit www.npg.org.uk to find out more about the his mum get to be a part of it.” COMING HOME project #PortraitsComingHome EXCITING NEW CHAPTER FOR CROYDON’S LIBRARIES Ambitious plans to transform Croydon’s libraries into thriving cultural hubs at the heart of local communities, have been approved and are under way. All 13 libraries will be modernised and upgraded through encourage creativity and celebrate culture, from live a programme of refurbishment and investment, creating performances to exhibitions and workshops. welcoming, inspirational spaces that meet local needs now Homework clubs and job clubs will be expanded, and and in the future. digital zones enhanced with modern IT equipment. This includes the ambition to create a flagship library And to give residents longer access to their new library within the Clocktower building in Katharine Street. spaces and services, the council will pilot new technology, Work has already begun, with South Norwood’s new Open+, allowing them to access the building with their library library opening in spring 2020, and , Norbury and card. Thornton Heath libraries all being refurbished over the next To get more people of all ages involved, the council will 12 months. develop its volunteer programme, and partnerships with Approved by the council’s cabinet in May, the 10-year the voluntary and community sector. Volunteer at www. Libraries Plan follows the council’s decision to take the service croydon.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/volunteer back in-house last year. Councillor Oliver Lewis, cabinet member for culture, leisure Written and spoken word will remain at the heart of and sport, said: “Libraries play a vital role in our communities libraries, with investment to increase the number of physical and we are creating a fantastic network we can all be proud and digital books available. of - inspirational, welcoming, flexible spaces where everyone In addition, an exciting programme of events will can learn, read, work, meet people and get involved.” 6 SUMMER 2019

THE CURTAIN’S RISING Croydon’s best-loved theatre, Fairfield Halls, will celebrate its reopening with a special event to welcome back fans and showcase the venue’s multi-million refurbishment. The iconic venue will open its doors to the public for the first Croydon’s stunning new arts centre time on 16 September, welcoming visitors to a stunning new and find out what’s on offer – enjoy arts centre. some free entertainment and sample Visitors will be able to drop in and enjoy a programme the menu at our café. of live music in the Arnhem Foyer, go on a tour of the venue I hope to welcome as many spaces, meet the staff and find out what’s in store at the new people as possible on the big day.” Fairfield Halls. The redeveloped venue includes the world-class Phoenix The café and bar facilities will be operating throughout the Concert Hall, Ashcroft Playhouse, Arnhem Foyer as well as day with special Open House promotional rates on offer. new spaces including The Recreational, Savvy Studio and John Last entry will be 4.30pm with the venue closing to the Whitgift Community Cube. general public at 6pm. Behind the scenes guided tours will also be taking place Venue Director Neil Chandler said: “We know how much throughout the Open House festival on Saturday 21 and Sunday people have been looking forward to Fairfield reopening and we 22 September. Register at www.fairfield.co.uk wanted to give everyone a chance to visit as soon as possible. Visit www.fairfield.co.ukfor more information and to sign “The open events are a fantastic opportunity to get to know up to the mailing list for the earliest announcements. Win tickets to see The Music of Bond We’re giving away two pairs of tickets to a concert celebrating the world’s most famous secret agent at Fairfield Halls on Friday 25 October at 7.30pm. At The Music of Bond, the London Concert Orchestra will perform legendary hits such as Goldfinger, Thunderball, Diamonds are Forever and Skyfall. They will be joined on stage by the acclaimed guest singers and West End musical stars Tim Howar and Louise Dearman. To enter the competition just tell us who sang the title song for the Bond film Skyfall - a) Sam Smith b) or c) Madonna? For Music of Bond tickets or further info call the box office 020 3292 0002 or visit www.raymondgubbay.co.uk

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Please tick if you would like to receive the Your Croydon Weekly e-bulletin. Post entries to: Your Croydon magazine, 7D , Mint Walk, Croydon CR0 1EA Alternatively email your answer to [email protected] along with your name address and phone number. All entries must be received by midnight on 31 July and the winner will be drawn at random. For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 7 NEW FESTIVALS ROCK CROYDON MUSIC CITY Two new festivals put Croydon on the map as the borough continues to develop as a music city, a place where music is at the heart of the local economy. Cro Cro Lands and The Ends were both sell-out events and hailed a huge success. Cro Cro Land Croydon’s inaugural Cro Cro Land, organised by the creators of The Croydonist blog, was a sell-out this spring, with a line-up that attracted music-lovers from across the UK including more than 70 industry professionals. The brand new event at Urban Xchange in April was supported by Croydon Council through its cultural partnership fund, and . Residents Julia Woollams and Angela Martin developed the festival to celebrate Croydon’s music history as the birthplace of punk, with a line-up featuring 40 of the UK’s most exciting

indie and alternative bands and DJs across three stages. Image by: Jon Mo It was billed as a gender-balanced event, with women fairly represented in both the line-up and the backstage crew. Through a partnership with local charity Lives not Knives, Cro Cro Land offered a programme of work experience and Blood Red Shoes rocking out training for young people. Image by: Freddie Onadeko

Nokwamz Kaio performs Image by: Andy Hughes Thousands flocked to as Croydon’s newest major music festival The Ends proved a sell-out earlier this month. Hailed a huge success, the three day Metropolis (Livenation) event from 31 May-2 June was headlined by international stars including Nas, Wizkid and Damian Marley. It also gave local young musicians a chance to shine on the council-sponsored Future stage, which provided aspiring artists from Croydon with a platform. Among them was Nokwamz Kaio from Norwood. He said: “It has been a great opportunity, to perform at home. It’s been my biggest performance to date. Tricey, who also performed on the Future stage on Friday, said: “It’s been an amazing experience.” Damian Marley closing the main stage 8 SUMMER 2019 CROYDON TAKES CENTRE STAGE WITH THEATRE Thousands of new opportunities for young people to get involved in theatre, in their neighbourhoods and at world-class venues, are being created as Croydon becomes one of five Youth Performance Partnerships in England. Croydon successfully bid for the £1m Local groups including SAVVY This will be co-ordinated by Meridian Arts Council England funding for Theatre Company, ZooCo, Well- High Secondary School, Oasis Academy London, fending off competition from Versed Ink, Reaching Higher and Syrus Ryelands and Legacy Youth Zone. across the capital. Consultancy, will also be involved, with Young people will also have the Secretary of State for Culture Jeremy more than 150 BRIT School students chance to perform in or work on Wright announced the award at The aged 16-19 offering peer-to-peer productions at The Fairfield Halls, and BRIT School in March. support every year. to visit arts centres throughout London Developed by Croydon Council and the South East. through Croydon Music & Arts hub, with Local young ambassadors for the young people, arts organisations and programme include spoken word artist schools, the three-year programme will Zhanai Wallace, 15; Keanu Reid, 15, create performing arts opportunities for from the hugely successful Croydon Rap more than 2,000 young people locally. Club; Jude Yawson from #Merkybooks, It will target black, Asian and who co-wrote Stormzy’s recent minority ethnic young people who autobiography Rise Up; and Mason are historically under-represented in Sestanovich AKA ‘Rager’, 16. theatre. Zhanai Wallace, whose poem The National companies like Talawa, Garden of Croydon was featured in The BRIT School and Dance Umbrella Workshops will be delivered in the bid, said: “It’s really important will teach young people practical schools and community centres, initially to get young people involved in arts performance skills, like drama, dance in , Thornton Heath and programmes. and music, as well as script writing, South Norwood with opportunities for “It boosts them and it gives them a directing and tech. young people borough-wide. platform and a stage.” exciting times for culture By Councillor Oliver Lewis, cabinet zone offering reduced studio rates, we are member for culture, leisure and sport building a legacy to keep culture at the heart We’ve seen some fantastic new additions to of Croydon for future generations. Croydon’s cultural calendar this year, with both With all this, and the opening of Fairfield The Ends festival and Cro Cro Land putting our Halls in September, it’s definitely a special year borough back on the map as a destination for for culture in Croydon. You can find out more live music. We are determined to build on this in our culture plan at www.croydon.gov.uk success as we continue to grow and develop as a music city. And we have plenty more to look forward to, with our first Windrush celebration, the return of Croydon PrideFest and Croydon Mela and our Street Live programme. These free events offer something for everyone. At the same time we are creating new opportunities for local artists, giving them platforms in their home town. Through initiatives like our new youth performance partnership, to our new creative enterprise For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 9 Legacy Youth Zone launch date announced Croydon’s stunning new £6.5m state-of-the-art Legacy Youth Zone will officially open its doors with a launch event on 7 September 2019. All are welcome to join the celebrations, which start at 11am, and enjoy a wide range of activities suitable for the whole family. Entry on the day is free. Legacy Youth Zone in Whitehorse Road, , will Council leaders and the Legacy team celebrate 100 days to go. offer young people aged eight to 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs somewhere to go, something to do and construction costs and £300,000 of the annual £1m revenue someone to talk to, seven days a week. budget. The brand new centre will host an impressive 3G kick pitch, Angel Chizea, 17, from Legacy Young Peoples’ Development indoor climbing wall, sports hall, dance studio, fully equipped Group, said: “I’m really happy to see Legacy finally coming gym, music room with recording studio, martial arts studio, through. training kitchen, wellbeing room, café and much more. "I am so excited, it will give a lot of opportunities to myself For an annual membership fee of £5 and then just 50p per and other young people in Croydon to make their mark and visit, members can enjoy more than 20 activities every night. leave a Legacy.” The Youth Zone is being developed by the national charity To become a member or for more information visit: OnSide with Croydon Council contributing £3.25m towards the www.legacyyouthzone.org

Free swimming & activities all summer Croydon residents aged 16 and under can remain active over the summer holidays as free swimming sessions return for the seventh consecutive year in July. From 24 July to 2 September, there centres. Also throughout the summer, will be free swimming sessions for ID may be required. Croydon residents between eight U16s at each of Croydon’s five leisure Eight-year-olds and younger will and 19-years-old, or up to 25-years- centres - New Addington, Purley, need to be accompanied by an adult to old with a disability or learning South Norwood, Thornton Heath and sessions, who must also register them. difficulty, can sign up for sports, art, – during general Swim For All The £2 membership card can be music, dance, cookery, employability Sessions. used throughout the summer, and skills, barbering, social media, music To access the free sessions, replaced for an additional £2 if lost or production and more. residents will need a membership card. stolen. Keep your eyes peeled throughout They will be able to complete an Pool timetables and opening times the summer as the new youth application form online via www. for each leisure centre can be found at engagement bus will be touring the better.org.uk/croydon, or by using www.better.org.uk/croydon borough, bringing pop-up advice the self-service machines at one of the Find out as soon as the cards and information sessions to the leisure centres. become available by signing up for the communities it visits. All membership cards, which cost Your Croydon Weekly e-newsletter – For more details of the activities £2, need to be collected from the www.croydon.gov.uk/subscribe visit www.youngcroydon.org.uk 10 SUMMER 2019

Choose to look after yourself Young people who feel stressed, anxious or overwhelmed are being inspired by their peers to look after their wellbeing, look out for others, and seek help when they need it. The latest phase of the award-winning Choose Your Future “I was in denial because, like me, a lot of young people campaign launched during Mental Health Awareness Week keep things to themselves and don’t want to ask for help. in May and coincided with the exam period. “As a rapper, I was able to express myself and release Half of all adults with a lifetime mental illness, excluding my emotions through my music. dementia, will experience symptoms by the age of 14 and “This helped me to believe that things would get better. up to 10% of young people may self-harm. I do now have a brighter future.” Growing up and thinking about your future can be Local organisations which offer support, such as daunting. At the borough’s second youth congress last year, Croydon Talking Therapies, Croydon Drop In, Ment4 and young people highlighted mental health as one of their top Off the Record, are also backing the campaign. three concerns, along with crime and safety, and jobs and Off the Record's vision is to ‘Bring an end to mental success. health misery for children and young people in South London’. Their excellent work to improve people’s health and wellbeing has been recognised nationally with a 2019 GSK IMPACT Award and rewarded with £30,000. In Croydon, the charity offers free counselling, support for young carers and young refugees. It also works with the council’s gangs team and local professional and community groups to support young people following a violent or sudden death. In addition to face-to-face counselling, it has developed an online platform, to find out more about choose your future visit www.choose-your-future.com By listening to young people and identifying the barriers that might stop them from getting mental health care, the Choose ambassador and Rap Club member Tya charity has been able to help children and young people to Cunningham, 16, explains how music helped her cope with prevent crises and make positive choices. bereavement. As they celebrate their 25th anniversary, Off the Record “Last year, I was feeling sad and angry due to the deaths are continuing to use new and innovative ways to connect of people that I knew. with young people and provide urgently-needed support. “This changed me and it also affected my eating. I lost To find out more about Off the Record’s work or to get weight and people were concerned. help, visit www.talkofftherecord.org For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 11 CROYDON HAS

Hundreds headed to Thornton Heath to be In the over-16's category, singer Albert Amankwah, 25, was awarded first place, followed by dancer Jaykwarn Payne wowed by a spectacular showcase last month (stage name Azulo), 17; while rapper D'sean Boswell, 17, - the borough’s first ever Croydon has Talent. (stage name KS More Time), came third. Open to young people aged eight-25 from across the The evening was hosted by Anthony King and Inspiring borough, the competition was organised by Croydon BME Vanessa. Forum with support from Croydon Council’s Choose Your Future campaign, celebrating young people’s positive choices. The audience at Oasis House, Peall Road, were treated to a fantastic night of live entertainment from solo performers and groups, with acts ranging from dance to DJ sets, from classical Indian music to rap. On the judging panel were X-Factor 2018 finalist and Croydon resident Rae Elle Williams, Roger Samuels from The Voice 2019; DJ Milktray; Finesse Forever; Leader of the Image by: Lee Townsend council, Councillor Tony Newman; and cabinet member for children and young people, Councillor Alisa Flemming. The Mayor of Croydon also attended as a special guest. In the under-16s category, dancer Amare Caleb Yawson, 10, came first; New Addington singer Karson Reynolds, 13, came second; and 11 XI Ten, a group of rappers aged 11, 11, Rae Elle Williams and 12, came third.

Scoring a goal against knife crime Young people from the Premier League It championed the goals of the council’s Choose Your Kicks flagship community football Future campaign - to unite Croydon against serious youth programme came ‘top of the league’ at violence and support young people to make positive choices. Cut It Out also included competitions, workshops and Cut It Out – an anti-knife crime football support groups which encouraged everyone attending to tournament that united all ages. meet new people. The BME Forum-led event saw 1,000 people meet up The young people’s team pitched their skills against at Crystal Palace Football Club to pitch their skills on the Croydon Police, with other teams including All Inclusive Premier League club’s turf. Football Team; Croydon All Stars; Croydon councillors; Croydon Council, Croydon Police, Palace for Life Croydon Female All Stars; City Hall staff; the Fathers Forum; Foundation and community groups helped organise and fund Lions Society; London Road Businesses; Neighbourhood the tournament. Safety Officers and Selhurst Community Team. 12 SUMMER 2019

good citizenship awards An inspirational young girl who helps look after her sister and completed St John’s Ambulance training was among 67 young people recognised at a special awards ceremony. Eleven-year-old Emily Troop from Broadmead Primary and I want to be a paramedic when I grow up.” School was one of the winners at the Good Citizenship The awards ceremony recognised the successes of young Awards. people across the borough for achievements including “I wanted to do the training because of my cousin,” she helping their communities, being a good example to their said. “She really inspires me. I was proud to get the award peers, charity work and more. Scheme to boost apprenticeships in Croydon launched A scheme to encourage Croydon employers to take on and develop skilled and motivated local apprentices has been backed by businesses. The 100 in 100 campaign will see local apprentices available through Croydon’s free job brokerage service, recruited into 100 positions across the borough in 100 Croydon Works. working days. For more information, and to sign up to the campaign, And ahead of the first day of the campaign, 5 August employers should contact [email protected] 2019, the council is looking for more businesses to pledge Those who wish to apply to become apprentices should positions for Croydon residents to apply for. register to Croydon’s free job brokerage service, Croydon So far more than 60 places have been pledged. Works – www.croydonworks.co.uk The campaign provides the opportunity for employers Danielle Barker, who has been an apprentice in the to increase productivity and reduce training costs by hiring council’s children, families and education department and developing skilled and motivated apprentices from since November 2017, said: “I enjoy being an apprentice across the borough. thoroughly. The Croydon Apprenticeship Academy, a virtual “The best thing about it is meeting the different people partnership of providers, businesses and the council, and different apprentices. will provide support to those pledging positions for the “I think if people are unsure about their future they campaign to make hiring apprentices as simple as possible. should think about an apprenticeship, to experience the Up to 100% of apprenticeship training costs could be different things and departments. covered for employers, with recruitment support also “I would recommend it 100%.” For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 13 First 100% affordable Brick by Brick development launches Homes at the first all-affordable Brick by Brick development are now on sale to borough residents and will complete later this year. Flora Court in Thornton Heath consists of 24 shared ownership flats and three affordable rented flats. Prices start at £315,000, meaning those buying a 25% share will pay £78,750. The three affordable rented homes at the development, which is on the site of a former derelict care home off Councillor Alison Butler, Croydon Council’s deputy leader Chipstead Avenue, will go to people on the council’s housing and cabinet member for homes and Gateway services, waiting list. said: “The council set up Brick by Brick to boost supply Croydon Council set up Brick by Brick in 2016 to boost of homes for Croydon people that are good-quality and local housing supply by developing more than 2,000 genuinely affordable, so this progress with Flora Court is good-quality homes, including affordable homes, with any very encouraging. This will be the first of many Brick by Brick development profits to be returned to the council to reinvest schemes giving local people affordable rented homes, which in the borough. will remain in the public sector for those in need for many Brick by Brick’s first homes went on sale in Upper years to come.” Norwood in March, and it has another 24 schemes either on For more information, visit the Brick by Brick website site or coming into contract, with more in the pipeline. www.bxbdevelopment.com Sharing memories celebrating 100 years of council homes Croydon residents can share their memories, photographs, videos, rent books and even antique domestic appliances in an exhibition throughout August celebrating 100 years of council housing. This summer local authorities nationwide will mark the centenary of the 1919 Housing Act, which heralded a huge council house Brigid Griffin showing family photos building programme in the decades since, including around 25,000 built in Croydon such as Godstone Road in the 1920s and children in December 1969, and still lives there. New Addington’s postwar estate. Her memories include children playing in the street, Croydon Council and staff at the Museum of Croydon are now neighbours knowing each other and having their front door re- gathering memorabilia and people’s stories to be included in the painted in a choice of colours every four years. She lent family exhibition, which will run every day in August in the museum and photos taken at her home to the exhibition, and urged others to . provide their memories of living in a Croydon council house. Memorabilia provided already include photographs of estates She said: “It provided stable accommodation for us having so under construction, rent books and even kitchenware from kettles many children. It’s the garden I like most and that is why I would to toasters. Council tenants old and new have also been providing never move away. If people have good memories I would advise films and can even submit their memories as audio recordings. them to contribute.” Norbury resident Brigid Griffin, 85, moved into her council To share your memories, contact residentinvolvement@ house off Green Lane with her husband Padraig and their eight croydon.gov.uk or call 020 8726 6100 extension 47350. 14 SUMMER 2019

Liveable neighbourhoods

A £17m fund will help transform Old The indicative design work was supported by residents Town in Croydon to make the area more and access groups. Isabelle Clement, director of Wheels for Wellbeing, a accessible for everyone. cycling group representing the views of disabled cyclists, Croydon Council is investing £7.75m in the scheme from said: “Changing the existing subways into light-controlled the Growth Zone fund along with £9.6m from Transport crossings can make it easier for disabled cyclists to for London. navigate the junctions. The scheme will reduce speeds on the flyover, transform “We’ll be working with Croydon Council throughout subways at the roundabout and create new segregated the project to help make the Liveable Neighbourhood bicycle lanes while creating a healthier boulevard and improvements the best that they can be for current users connecting communities. and generations to come.” DMWC clear up April saw Croydon’s Don’t Mess With Croydon – Take Pride partner with the Great British Springclean to organise a host of litter picks throughout the borough. Over the month 215 people joined the 19 litter picks in locations across Croydon, helping to collect a total of 300 bags of rubbish. Also, eight new street champions signed up to help organise litter picks in their own communities throughout the year. Street champions are supported by Croydon Council to organise litter picks. The council provides equipment and support and helps to clear away the collected waste. Email [email protected] to find out more or to become a Street Champion. You can check a list of upcoming litter picks in your area online at www.croydon.gov.uk/ environment/dontmess/community-clean-ups For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 15 Proposals for School Streets across Croydon Proposals to introduce up to eight new School Streets across Croydon have been widely supported by the communities they would help. Ten schools at eight new sites were shortlisted for the trial with The shortlisted schools are: letters written to the schools and the surrounding communities. Hundreds of responses to the public engagement have been • Norbury Manor Primary, Norbury received with nearly 70 per cent supporting the scheme. • Cypress Primary, South Norwood The proposals build on a successful pilot scheme that saw • Winterbourne Junior Girls, Bensham Manor temporary pedestrian zones that only operate during the • Winterbourne Junior Boys, Bensham Manor school run created at three Croydon schools. • Fairchildes Primary, New Addington The first three schemes led to 250 fewer children travelling • , Purley Oaks and Riddlesdown to school by car with most of them walking, cycling or scooting • Regina Coeli Catholic Primary School, Purley Oaks and instead. Riddlesdown To be considered for the School Street scheme, schools • Downsview Primary & Nursery, should be part of the London-wide STARS programme, which helps them develop other ways for pupils to get to school, • Harris Primary Academy , Kenley including walking, scooting, cycling and public transport. • West Thornton Primary Academy, Broad Green Turn your road into a car-free Play Street Children across Croydon will have the chance to turn their local street into a safe temporary playground later this year to mark international Car Free Day. Croydon Council has signed a pledge to help residents and interested parties run new Play Streets across the borough on Car Free Day on 22 September. A Play Street sees a section of a road closed to traffic for a short period of time giving children a safe space to play outside. They are designed to give children and neighbours a space to enjoy and an opportunity to make new friendships. There are already regular Play Streets across Croydon but anyone can apply to set one up at any time of year. To organise a new Play Street for World Car Free Day, contact [email protected] by 29 July. YouTurn Can your Help road Protect into Your a car-free Local Green Play StreetSpaces We want to hear your views on how important local green spaces are to you. Many of Croydon’s open spaces are already protected against development by planning policies, but to ensure they are further protected for generations to come, the council is looking to hear from communities about why they are important to them. This research is part of the partial review of the Croydon Local Plan, which will allow the council to demonstrate to the Planning Inspector the significance of these spaces to local people. A list of spaces put forward as part of the 2016 submission of the Local Plan was rejected as the development. The designation would also influence any inspector felt there was not enough local evidence to prove neighbouring proposals. how important they were to their local communities. Visit the council’s Get Involved website before midnight There are no planning proposals for any of the sites, but 22 July to see the spaces suggested, have your say and add the Local Green Space designation the council is seeking areas of your own for consideration. Visit www.getinvolved. would provide additional protection against any future croydon.gov.uk/project/571 16 SUMMER 2019

Children to get £650,000 holiday club boost Thousands of Croydon children will get free summer holiday activity clubs and healthy meals after the council and a national charity jointly won £657,000 in Government funding. Croydon Council and Family Action were named in April as As well as encouraging young people to lead a healthier London’s only successful bid for Department for Education and more active lifestyle across 16 four-week sessions, funding to give up to 9,000 young people sports activities the programme will support their families to improve their and healthy food classes throughout the summer holidays, finances and job prospects through budgeting advice, plus welfare support for their families. training and housing information. The largest of its kind to date in Croydon, the Up to around 100 eligible schemes, including schools programme will include around 7,000 children who qualify and youth clubs, will now be invited to bid for the funding, for free school meals, including those in emergency which ranges from £260 to £400 per session, plus £300 accommodation and young people with special educational equipment grants. needs. For more information, email: [email protected] Join Croydon’s OH YES SHE IS….. The winner of the autism board Fairfield Halls pantomime tickets Croydon’s Autism Partnership Board (APB) competition is Karen wants new members from the borough’s autistic Green, of Hillcrest community, including carers and a child. Road, Purley. The APB considers all-age autism issues, sets directions for service improvements and stakeholders include the healthcare, Mrs Green, 58, scooped a business and voluntary sectors. It wants: family ticket for four to see • Three carers of children or young people with autism Cinderella, after correctly • Three carers of adults on the spectrum answering that Tim Vine will • Three adults on the spectrum play Buttons, the question in • One young person aged 16+ who is on the spectrum the previous edition of Your Support will be provided so those on the spectrum Croydon magazine. can participate in meetings. Board chair Councillor Jerry The lifelong Croydon resident and Crystal Palace Fitzpatrick is particularly keen to hear from carers with Football Club season ticket holder said: “It’s wonderful to experience of involvement in voluntary organisations which have the Fairfield Halls back. support autistic services. “We need a local theatre – it’s really important and For more information, email jerry.fitzpatrick@croydon. it’s such a big part of the community. I’m really excited – gov.uk especially now I’ve got some panto tickets!” For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 17

£1M MAKEOVER FOR INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY HUB A £1m revamp creating a community hub for Croydon residents of all ages with or without disabilities has been completed this month. Last year work began to refit and upgrade a 1980s building in local schoolchildren and the NHS for meetings. St James’s Road into the Cherry Hub, which is for the use of Rooms at the newly-fitted building, which used to be the council adult social care services, local voluntary groups and Cherry Orchard Day Centre, have full disabled access including the wider public. hoists and handrails. The neighbouring Cherry Orchard Garden Centre remained open for business throughout construction THE HUB INCLUDES: and continues to sell a range of plants to the public. • A new specialist dance and workout studio for around Dana Xavier, from Thornton Heath, who has Autism 30 people Spectrum Disorder, works four days a week at the Cherry • Flexible meeting rooms with wifi Orchard Garden Centre and runs her own wedding floristry • A training kitchen, with adjustable height surfaces for business. The 21-year-old said: “I enjoy having my own space to wheelchair users do my work, making new customers and meeting new people. • A top-of-the-range sensory room The staff are very nice and friendly, and the things on sale here • A specialist wing for the council’s autism service are at good prices and good quality.” The Whitehorse Youth Centre and nursery continue to The hub is not a day centre in the traditional sense – use a separate part of the building. The borough’s other people with disabilities use it as part of their tailored activity Active Lives services for people with disabilities now have programmes around the borough. Other members of the public the additional opportunity to use the hub’s resources either will also be able to hire rooms in the future, and customers in groups or as individuals. For more information, email have already included The BRIT School for dance classes with [email protected] 18 SUMMER 2019

A new Mayor for Croydon Backing local businesses, supporting The Mayor of Croydon’s charities 2019: people with disabilities and celebrating • Mind in Croydon, which promotes good mental health www.mindincroydon.org.uk Croydon’s diversity are priorities for the • Croydon Vision helps those who are blind or visually borough’s new Mayor. impaired www.croydonvision.org.uk Councillor Humayun Kabir, who represents Bensham Manor • Apasen International (Croydon) helps to meet the Ward, was sworn in for his year in office at the annual needs of vulnerable people www.apasen.org.uk council meeting in May. A Croydon resident for more than 40 years, he has been a • Ashdon Jazz Academy provides support to vulnerable councillor since 2010, serving as deputy cabinet member for young women www.ashdonjazzacademy.org both economy and jobs, and finance and treasury, as well as • Croydon Refugee Day Centre supports asylum vice-chair of the planning committee. seekers and refugees Councillor Kabir came to England in 1972, moving to www.croydonrefugeedaycentre.co.uk Croydon when he opened his first catering business in 1977. After studying for a Bachelor of Education degree, he began a new career at Tower Hamlets Council, as a parent And his deputy….. advocate and family support services manager. A mum-of-two who believes in He has been an active member of the local community, championing children and young serving as president of Croydon Bangladesh Welfare people will take on the role of Association for two terms. Deputy Mayor this year. He was also a founding member of the Asian Resource Councillor Maddie Henson, Centre; helped to establish the Queens Community Hall who represents East, through Bensham Manor Community Association; and was will support Councillor Kabir on the committee that helped to develop Shahjalal Mosque. throughout his year in office. As Mayor he will champion five local charities, and has Born and bred in the borough, Councillor Henson launched a new Mayor’s ambassador scheme to get the grew up in South Norwood attending Crossfields community involved in fundraising. Nursery, where she is now a governor; South To volunteer contact [email protected] Norwood Primary; and then Harris Crystal Palace. The father-of-three will be supported by his wife of 37 Later, she gained a BA in History from Kent years, Rahena, as his consort. University, Canterbury. Councillor Kabir said: “I am delighted and honoured to She first became a councillor in 2014 for Ashburton serve as Mayor for our wonderful community in Croydon. ward, and was re-elected in 2018 for the newly- “My background as a small business owner means I’m formed Addiscombe East. passionate about our economy, while my later career as a She has served on many committees, specialising in parent advocate, and my experiences as a councillor have adoption and fostering and championing children and made me keen to support people with disabilities. young people. “As Mayor I look forward to working with as many groups Her husband Mark Henson is her consort. as possible to celebrate Croydon’s rich cultural diversity.” For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 19 Take a stand against hate crime Croydon takes a zero-tolerance approach and is encouraging everyone to sign its new anti-hate crime pledge. The pledge is for everyone, whether you concerns, and need to know if you feel are part of an organisation (including you are being targeted in any way businesses, community groups, because of this offence. voluntary sector, private sector or Gaining a greater understanding statutory) or an individual that lives, of the issues people are facing means works or visits our borough. officers can respond effectively. Hate crime takes many The goal is to strengthen our If matters go unreported the police forms, including: community against these crimes and to and partners cannot act quickly to deal make Croydon a safer and welcoming, with these issues together. • Race, colour, ethnic origin, inclusive borough. The Safer Croydon Partnership will nationality or national origins We aim to raise awareness of these treat and respond to all hate crimes issues and encourage more people to equally by working closely with our • Religion or belief report these crimes. community safety partners and passing Reporting for vulnerable groups, such on specific details to the police. • Gender or gender identity as those with a disability, and those To sign the pledge please visit from the LGBT+ community has been www.croydon.gov.uk/saynotohate • Sexual orientation declining for several years, despite the To find out more about hate crime, spike of incidents after Brexit. and to report a hate crime, please see • Physical or mental disability The police, together with all the www.met.police.uk/true-vision- many partners that are working to report-hate-crime • Age can also be an reduce hate crime, want to increase You can also call 101, or 999 in an aggravating factor. confidence in people reporting their emergency.

SignSign ourour Anti-HateAnti-Hate CrimeCrime PledgePledge www.croydon.gov.uk/saynotohate Did you know offences committed against you because of your race, religion, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, or a physical or mental disability are hate crimes? Please report them. www.met.police.uk/true-vision-report-hate-crime call 101, or 999 in an emergency 20 SUMMER 2019

JOIN ME IN SIGNING THE ANTI-HATE CRIME PLEDGE I want to tell you about what more because of the colour of their skin, in signing our pledge to work towards we can all do to tackle hate crime in their ethnic background, gender, sexual a truly inclusive, diverse and amazing Croydon. orientation or because of a disability. borough. Together with the council and our Croydon is an incredibly diverse Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine. partners, we are launching an anti-hate borough and I for one am proud to be crime pledge, encouraging everyone to part of that. sign up to a zero-tolerance approach Let’s embrace our culture and to all hate crime in Croydon. background and make Croydon a But we can only act if people talk to fantastic home and place of work and Craig Knight us about what is happening. play for anyone and everyone. Chief Inspector 240237 Never be afraid to tell us if you or I hope all our partners, businesses Neighbourhoods and Partnership someone you know is being victimised and all of you will be able to join me South Area Basic Command Unit New public health approach to crime

The council is backing plans to treat serious youth violence, including knife crime, as a public health issue. The plans went before cabinet on 10 June, when members months from May 2018 to April 2019 compared to May 2017 agreed that this was the best way to reduce borough to April 2018)*. violence. Lib Peck, Director of the Mayor of London’s Violence The plans include the development of trauma-based Reduction Unit, attended the meeting and praised the training for staff, the community and voluntary sectors. council’s new approach. This will enable people to identify and understand adverse The public health approach sees violent crime as a childhood and adult experiences and ensure those who complex problem, and Croydon will work with partners to experience them are properly supported. help stop offences before they happen by focusing on the Children and young people who experience trauma causes, as well as the impact of the crimes. are more likely to develop health-harming and antisocial This approach means that everyone has a role to play behaviours, perform poorly in school and be involved with in preventing and reducing violence; it is a societal issue as crime. opposed to the responsibility of a single agency or group of Croydon’s public health approach takes a broad and agencies. inclusive approach to violence reduction, in line with the The work will build on the 21.7% reduction in serious youth Mayor of London’s Violence Reduction Unit. crime achieved in the borough this year (from the rolling 12 *Source: Met Stats

Councillor Hamida Ali, Lib Peck and Council Leader Tony Newman. For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 21

Croydon knits, dances and sings to support dementia Residents came out in force to support events for this year’s Dementia Action Week in May, organised by the Croydon Dementia Action Alliance (CDAA). The CDAA is a partnership with dementia information sessions and worried about my legs not being strong Alzheimer’s Society, Croydon Council, stalls to raise money for dementia enough.” But she danced at least twice NHS services, Age UK Croydon, the causes. More than 100 cupcakes were and her family said she had not had Metropolitan Police, London Fire sold and there were raffle prizes to that much fun in ages. Brigade and more than 20 other local be won. Matthew Kershaw, Croydon “I would have been sat at home organisations. Health Services’ Chief Executive, is now just with the TV, instead I have had a The week helps to raise awareness a Dementia Friend and there will be lovely time and danced”, said Janet who of the condition, encourage people to regular knitting groups at the hospital as attended the tea dance. take positive actions, such as becoming a result of the event. As a special treat, hand and Reiki a Dementia Friend, and support those back massages were offered by social with dementia and their carers to enjoy care organisations Right at Home and activities with other residents in their St Christopher’s Hospice during the local community. dance. A 12-hour extravaganza was held In addition, the week saw people at Croydon University Hospital, which joining in the singing and dancing at included a knitathon making hand muffs the dementia friendly screening of for dementia wards at the hospital and Summer Holiday (1963), starring Cliff South London & Maudsley NHS Trust. Richard and The Shadows, at Croydon’s The muffs help to relax people living with . Sharon Boyd, who dementia during their hospital stay or is a carer and a sponsor of the film visit and can help prevent them getting screenings, said: “I love Cliff Richard agitated. and sang along all the way through, it Residents joined Croydon Council staff The CDAA also arranged a popular was fun.” and Councillor Jane Avis, the council’s tea dance with live singing and There were also dementia open days cabinet member for families, health Croydon’s new Mayor, Councillor and more singing and dancing at The and social care, to knit and sew. Even Humayun Kabir, participated in the fun. Memory Tree Café at Age UK Croydon, outpatients attending for blood tests also One lady, who was a bit anxious, was Croydon’s BAME Forum, Marsh and took part. able to dance with Adrian Forward, the Willow Day Centre and Sunrise Senior In addition, the hospital hosted volunteer dance teacher. She said, “I'm Living care home. 22 SUMMER 2019 It's time to stamp out measles in Croydon Measles continues to be an issue in communities across London, the UK and globally. We can stop this. Two doses of the MMR vaccination provides immunity against not only measles, but also mumps and rubella. It is best to take positive action to protect your health and that of your loved ones. The more people who have this immunity, the more the whole community is protected from measles. Some people are unable to receive the MMR jab, so we are protecting them too. Immunity is what happens in your body after you have two doses of the vaccination. The vaccine stimulates your immune system so that it can recognise the disease and protect you from future infection. How you can help eliminate infectious diseases: Rachel Flowers, Croydon Council’s director of public health, • Speak to your GP about your vaccination record said: "It is really important that more people in Croydon are • Get the facts and advice about vaccinations from a GP, vaccinated. This is something that you can do for your children pharmacist, health professional or the NHS website and yourself. It is a quick action that can lead to life-long benefits www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/mmr-vaccine to your health. Two doses of the MMR provide an immunity • If you work at a school or college, find out their against these highly infectious diseases. If they are contracted, vaccinations policy and consider sending information to they can have very serious and potentially fatal complications. parents /carers, students and staff to ensure everyone is The vaccine is proven to be safe and effective and a full course is adequately protected. just two injections, which you can complete at any age.” Look after your sexual health Croydon’s young people are being trained professionals. This work also supports the updated supported by Croydon Council’s public guidance for all schools in the borough to teach children about looking after themselves and keeping safe while online. health team to have healthy relationships There is more information at www.gettingiton.org.uk and look after their overall wellbeing. No matter your age, taking care of your sexual health The C-Card scheme offers free condoms to those aged 24 and and wellbeing should be a priority. You can speak to a GP, under, along with confidential sexual health support through pharmacist or health clinic or visit www.JustBeCroydon.org For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk 23 Council meeting dates Useful contacts Full council meetings start at 6.30pm and are held in the For police, fire brigade, ambulance, council chamber of , Katharine Street, call: 999 or 112, Text phone 1800 Croydon CR0 1NX. Croydon Council general enquiries Meeting: Monday 15 July Deadline: Monday 8 July 020 8726 6000 Meeting: Monday 7 October Deadline: Monday 30 September Croydon NHS Walk-in Centre Questions for consideration at a full council meeting, can be emailed to [email protected]; 020 3040 0800 alternatively, write to Questions for the council, Democratic Non-emergency urgent care - 111 services, 7C Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon CR0 1EA. Croydon University Hospital 020 8401 3000 Unless otherwise stated, cabinet meetings start at 6.30pm, in the council chamber of the Town Hall. Meeting: Monday 8 July, Thursday 19 September Get in touch For information on meetings, minutes and agendas, go to To get in touch with the Your Croydon editorial www.croydon.gov.uk/meetings For information on cabinet and team, email: [email protected] shadow cabinet members, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/cabinet If anybody you know isn't receiving the online Your Unless otherwise stated, scrutiny meetings start at 6.30pm, Croydon weekly, tell them that they can ensure delivery in the council chamber of the Town Hall. by subscribing at www.croydon.gov.uk/subscribe Meeting: Tuesday 16 July, Tuesday 10 September For information on scrutiny, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/scrutiny Central Library and Museum of Croydon or email [email protected] Katharine Street, Croydon CR9 1ET Meetings of the Safer Neighbourhood Board are held in the venues indicated. For further information, check www. Open: Monday to Saturday (see website for daily hours) croydononline.org/safer-neighbourhood-board Library – www.croydon.gov.uk/ Museum – The next public meetings: central-library www.museumofcroydon.com Meeting: 4 September Venue: F10, Town Hall Telephone: 020 8726 6900 Telephone: 020 8253 1022 Details of all Croydon Council meetings can be found at Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.croydon.gov.uk/meetings

For full details, visit: www.croydon.gov.uk/ Guided Walks leisure/parksandopenspaces/walks With summer just starting there’s never been a Sunday 21 Thursday 25 better time to explore the wide range of parks Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band – South London Downs Discovery Day – and green spaces in the borough. There are a whole host of special events taking place that Wandle Park and Happy Valley can help you enjoy these eye-catching places, You’re invited to bring a picnic and enjoy free Find out more about the breathtaking landscape but you can visit them at any time. musical entertainment as the Putney and around the South London Downs. Wimbledon Brass Band entertain crowds at the JULY Wandle Park bandstand. Their performance runs AUGUST Sunday 14 from 3pm to 5pm. Saturday 24 Picnic in the park – Wednesday 24 Bring your picnic, friends and family to join in as Summer Tree Walk – the Friends of Grangewood Park host the Picnic in Community garden open day – Wandle Take in some of the trees that make up the fantastic the Park. The event runs from 1pm to 5pm. Email Park local views. Meet at the South Norwood Hill [email protected] for more Learn all about gardening in small places as the entrance at 2pm for the event which is part of information. Wandle Park Community Garden opens its gate the project. Email sbtoon@ for everyone. Find out more about growing food, wildlondon.org.uk for more information. Sunday 21 planting, weeding, harvesting and tasting while Evening moth walk – Grangewood Park children enjoy free fun activities. Join a guided walk to try and see some of the moths who make their home in Grangewood Park. The event is being run as part of the Great North Wood project. Contact [email protected] for the time and meeting place. Capel Manor College Your route to a brighter future

Interested in nature, animals and the environment? Find your perfect course at our Campus! www.capel.ac.uk

Your Croydon June 2019.indd 1 03/06/2019 13:45:46