NOV 19x_WN.QXD 24/10/2019 11:14 Page 1 WestcombeNEWS Free to 3800 homes, in libraries and some shops November 2019 No. 9

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PHOTO: Malcolm Hardy Silvertown Tunnel to be reviewed?

reenwich Council has done a U- Victoria Rance, Coordinator of the Stop Gturn on the A102. More exactly, we the Silvertown Tunnel Coalition told the should say on the Silvertown Tunnel WN: plan. And we thought it was all over . . . “It's great to hear that, in the light of the Cllr Danny Thorpe, the leader of the climate emergency and the local air quality Council, has written to the Mayor of crisis, Dan Thorpe and the Labour Group London Sadiq Khan requesting that work running Council have decided on the tunnel should pause while a full to look again at the forecast effects of the review is carried out of alternative ways of Silvertown Tunnel, and have subsequently reducing pollution and congestion around asked the Mayor to halt and review the the . scheme. The decision follows expressions of “This is a brilliant achievement by the The Viking Sun seen in Greenwich at sunset one Saturday in September public concern over environmental issues. cross-party group from Labour, the Green before it left on the longest (245 day) round-the-world cruise. Cabins range as reported in October’s issue of the WN. Party, the Lib Dems and the Womens's from £193,000 to a modest £66,000, not including tips (10-20%?), and it's Among the possibilities the Council sug- Equality Party. fully booked. Feel like selling the flat for when it comes round next time...? gests is a Dockland Light Railway exten- “This coalition group have worked sion to (already listed on the tirelessly with local climate activists from Council’s Transport Strategy). Extinction Rebellion, residents’ groups Rectory Field under threat Other possibilities include an from across the borough, and air quality exploration of how pedestrians and cyclists campaigners to raise awareness across t was heartening to read in club is a constituent member. The BSC is can cross the River Thames more easily, Greenwich about this eye-wateringly ISeptember’s WN that the Hervey the body which manages Rectory Field; and improving public transport links, such expensive new road. Road playing field has been restored for last season the Rugby Club offered only a as a DLR extension to . “We are gravely concerned about the the use of the community. drastically reduced amount as its share of Among other suggestions are ways of massive harm it will do to efforts to It makes an excellent venue for the ground maintenance for the season. This reducing traffic volume through the improve air quality and reduce carbon Blackheath Mini rugby players on Sunday was very reluctantly accepted by the other Blackwall Tunnel, possibly including emissions. mornings and all the other community three constituent sports clubs, Cricket, imposing a toll for an experimental period. “We hope that now Greenwich have activities that are happening there. Tennis and Squash, as being marginal- (Toll charges were to be imposed in order signalled their opposition to the scheme, Well done to all those who helped to P.J. ly better than receiving nothing. For to finance the new tunnel.) adding to the overwhelming existing restore this sports ground. this rugby season the two sides have In his letter, Cllr Thorpe suggests a opposition from top climate, traffic, and It is very sad therefore to hear that Brown been unable to reach any agreement wider discussion of the transport and environmental health experts, leaders of during this season, 2019-2020, it is likely on Blackheath Rugby's financial contribu- infrastructure needs of the borough. four other boroughs, active travel NGOs, that no Blackheath rugby teams will be tion. TfL has already commenced making cycle logistics businesses, and local resi- using Rectory Field in Charlton Road for With the Mini rugby players now using some preliminary moves, notably a dents' groups, the Mayor and TfL will take the first time since 1883. the Hervey Road facility and the Junior consideration of what kind of barrier the opportunity to halt the scheme, look at Blackheath F.C. is the world’s oldest rugby section and the Millwall F.C. Soccer should be erected to shield residents of the evidence, and think again.” open rugby club, founded in 1858, and its Academy using on Sundays, the Siebert Road and Westcombe Hill. See also Letters page 3. traditional home ground, Rectory Field, in Women's Rugby section was left complete- those past 136 years has been host to ly out on a limb, with nowhere to play, by England International games, Varsity the rugby club’s hierarchy. The Sports matches between Oxford and Cambridge Club refused to let any of the sections of and many other prestigious encounters. the rugby club play at Rectory Field until it Right: Blackheath Rugby’s senior sides no paid a satisfactory amount as its share of longer use Rectory Field and have moved the upkeep of the ground. The Women’s Fighting to a ground share with the Millwall F.C. section was forced to look elsewhere for a for the Soccer Academy at Well Hall, Eltham. ground to play their matches and train, and cause in However, Blackheath F.C. has only a so it approached Charlton Park R.F.C. An Trafalgar relatively short term lease there. agreement was reached for Blackheath Square on Last season Rectory Field was used only Women to play their Championship South October by the Blackheath Women's Rugby section League fixtures at Charlton Park R.F.C’s 15th: for games on Sundays, Junior rugby on ground at Broad Walk, SE3 8NB. George Sunday mornings, and for midweek train- So, if there are no longer any Blackheath Monbiot, ing and, occasionally, by the men’s junior Rugby sides playing on the historic pitches Rupert teams. at Rectory Field, how long will it be before Read & Blackheath Rugby has indicated that it there is a need for a "Save Rectory Field Victoria PHOTO: wishes to reduce its costs to the Blackheath Action Committee?” Rance. Fiona Moore Sports Club (BSC), of which the rugby < < Newsbriefs > > Wanted:

Youth homelessness charity Depaul UK Our MP’s resignation property price in Greenwich is £2,000 cheaper than A new co-editor! is calling for people with spare rooms in their By now most residents will have had a letter the London average. This means a 5.4% slump in The February edition homes to volunteer to become Nightstop hosts – from our MP for Greenwich & Matt the last three years. But a one-bedroom flat near the and be trained to accommodate and look after a Pennycook explaining why he resigned from the Park may still cost you £450,000. of this popular local newspaper young person for a night.Last year, 600 households Opposition frontbench as a Shadow Brexit Minister. Ed: Readers please note: the suggestion is that could be the last if we across the UK gave up their spare rooms to help He also gives reasons for his belief that the British Greenwich may be slightly grungy round the edges, more than 1,200 young people who might other- people should have the final say on the issue, with No, not the financial services sector. Just in case cannot find a new co-editor! wise have been out on the streets. To find out more the option of staying in the EU – an option he that’s what you inferred...... If you have any interest about volunteering call 020 7939 1220 or visit strongly favours. www.nightstop.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer. St George’s lecture series in this rewarding job & would Grungy round the edges? The next lecture, by the Very Rvd Jeffrey John, like to become part of a Roaming gangs Cancel your subscription to the Financial Times at Dean of St Albans Cathedral, is at 8.00pm on Greenwich has been experiencing gangs of roving once! The FT for Sept 28th/29th quoted a Thursday 28th November, and is entitled Thank mutually supportive and marauders: parakeeets. An article in last year’s WN Hamptons International Land Registry report that God for Equal Marriage. friendly team please quoted the manager of as saying Greenwich was facing a “lean, mean time.” they were not currently a threat. But authorities in Accepting that Maritime Greenwich is popular Whales in the Thames ring Neville on 8858 8489 Madrid have had enough, and are to carry out a with buyers from the financial services sector Seen in the Thames at Woolwich: a humpback later to arrange an exploratory “humane cull.” (though “slightly grungy around the edges”), “the killed after colliding with a ship. Ten days later, the A local resident said: “I do have some sympathy shine has come off the local property market.” body of a rare, 32-foot long fin whale was spotted meeting to discuss what is with Madrid. Greenwich Park is overrun by them In 2016, property prices in Greenwich were 8% near the pier at Gravesend. The Zoological Society involved. sometimes.” What do readers think? higher than the London average. Now, the average of London is carrying out a post-mortem. NOV 19x_WN.QXD 24/10/2019 11:14 Page 2

COMMUNITY Westcombe News Raising funds for Macmillan Drivers beware

Al l editor iAl cor r espondence t o: very Monday morning, the Mycenae unday 15th EHouse Local History Group group neville Grant, Editor SSeptember was meets to hear talks on local history. [email protected] a perfect sunny As they left at around midday on 23rd Tel. 020 8858 8489 day for our annual September, some members were startled walk. Engineering by the ugly sound of a car turning round in Al l MAt er iAl t o Be sent t o : works meant that Mycenae Road, and clattering off. [email protected] we had to catch a “It made an awful jarring noise!” said bus to Charlton deadline for the joint december/ one eyewitness. “It sounded as though the Station where we exhaust pipe was falling off.” January issue: 16th November boarded the train environment editor: Maggie What happened on Mycenae Road that to Erith. morning was an outrage: a silver Prius, Gravelle From there, 17 sub-editor: Annie Grey a hybrid, had been parked in the road intrepid walkers outside Mycenae House, and during the r oving reporter: Vivienne Raper set out along the meeting, a gang of thieves had stolen the r eporters: The community – that Green Chain Walk The Mayor and Mrs Hayes enjoying a chat PHOTOS: Neville Grant catalytic converter fitted to the exhaust. means you! Yes, you! alongside the river Catalytic converters are fitted to all It’s your community paper, and so you House on 27th September. As will be seen towards Belevedere. hybrid cars, including Toyota Prius and are all invited to contribute to it! Don’t We turned inland at Riverside Resource from the photos, it was very well attended. On offer: delicious sandwiches, and scones Lexus 400h, to break down harmful wait for a WN Staff Reporter to come Recovery, near Crossness Nature Reserve exhaust emissions such as hydrocarbons along with an Official Photographer - the and had a welcome coffee/tea break at prepared with butter, jam and cream as well as a variety of homemade cakes. We were and nitrogen oxides. Up to 80% of the WN has neither!!! The best person to Starbucks in Thamesmead. gases are eliminated. report on your event is YOU! Fom there we walked through Bostal delighted to welcome the Mayor Cllr Mick Hayes and his wife Gillian. Exhaust fumes pass through a honey- Woods, to Lesnes Abbey where we had a comb of metal coated with precious metals envir o nMent c o MMit t ee great view of Canary Wharf. Many people gave extra donations and emily norton All queries and our Coffee Morning made a record sum rhodium and palladium. Thieves can make We enjoyed a sandwich lunch in the a killing by stealing the converters, and comments to: 020 8853 2756 abbey ruins under the shade of the trees. of £1,000 for MacMillan Cancer Support. [email protected] Many thanks for all of you who came either selling them on, or extracting the Then some of us took the train from Abbey precious metals – which are then sold dist r iBut io n emily norton and Wood back to Charlton. The rest of us along and supported either one or both of our events, making a total donation of back to the market. volunteers. More volunteer distributors continued onto Oxleas Woods and Shooters On this occasion, the victim was a local needed, please phone 020 8853 2756 £1,421 to this very worthy cause. Hill, covering six miles in all. Our walk resident who had been giving a talk on the raised £421 for MacMillan. Many thanks to And thanks too to all the volunteers who Adver t isinG MAnAGer history of the Westcombe News in helped including Caroline and Robert Owens. all who took part - and to those who Mycenae House. Gavin Hose, 26 Webb r oad se3 7pl sponsored the walkers. Maureen & J-J Aune, June Baker, Tessa Cross, All enquiries please to: “As soon as I started the engine and Our Westcombe Society MacMillan Jill Demilew, Christine Legg, Marilyn Little, [email protected] Shirley Little, Joanne Lucas & Jenny O’Keefe tried to move off, there was this awful Coffee Morning took place at Mycenae noise,” he said. “I knew at once what the All adverts payable in advance by trouble was.” cheque to t he Westcombe society. The AA arrived an hour later and said printed by: t rojan press the car was safe to drive the short distance c ontact the Westcombe society: home. According to the AA, thefts of [email protected] catalytic converters are taking place over a publisher: The Westcombe Society very wide area. c hairman: Marilyn Little Tel. 020 8853 1312 The problem is increasing. The The views expressed in the Westcombe Guardian (September 21st) reported that News are not necessarily those of the last year there were 1,700 thefts. This year Westcombe Society or of the Editor. it has already risen to 3,000 and counting. We take all reasonable precautions to pro- As a result, there is a serious shortage of tect the interests of our readers by ensuring spare parts: many drivers face delays of as far as possible the bona fides of our weeks or months to have their vehicles advertisers but cannot accept any responsi- repaired. bility for them. Any complaints should be These thefts are pernicious, because addressed to the advertiser. drivers are in effect being punished for To access back-numbers (in colour) go to: www.westcombesociety.org/westcombe- trying to mitigate vehicle pollution levels. news/ Westcombe Society’s Blog: A gang typically consists of three peo- http://westcombe.blogspot.com ple – a driver, a thief, and a minder who stands by to deter anyone from interfering. A theft can be effected in less than a We St Co mbe So Cie t y me mbe r Sh ip Views expressed are not necessarily those of either minute. the Westcombe Society, or the Westcombe News. please send this membership form to: Letters So far, the WN has heard of two such Christine Legg, 69 mycenae r oad, thefts in the area – and London, Se 3 7Se From: John Murphy Ormiston Road Surely, if the writer is so convinced that the there may have been more. Name...... In opposing the new Silvertown Tunnel (WN, trustees are making the changes in order to So: watch out! There are thieves about October)), the Green Party once again show them- make more money, and therefore are removing Address...... selves as completely out of touch with ordinary residents so as to be able to rent out the flats Londoners who are trying to earn a living, house ...... commercially, and if the writer really think their families, and lead responsible lives. that the CEO is behaving badly towards the t el...... Their alternative policies, set out in your lead residents, isn’t the correct place to take these story on the front page, show they have no idea concerns actually to the Charity Commission? e mail: ...... how we ordinary people live. Just a thought! Living less than a mile from the Blackwall Please enclose payment as appropriate: Tunnel, daily I watch the traffic queuing along the From: Christopher Peters Morden College Tunnel Approach on the A102 trying to struggle The slow moving traffic on Blackheath Hill is Family membership £12 [ ] through the Victorian tunnel built in 1897. Well a public health disaster. The Blackheath Society individual membership £8 [ ] done to Greenwich Council and TfL for taking would no doubt resist any road widening or Senior Citizens/unwaged £4 [ ] forward the new scheme which will provide some on thc sacred soil of the Heath. “Let them much-needed relief to the Blackwall Tunnel. grind on” - to misquote Marie Antoinette. Having worked for a decade in the 1990s for the PAINTING & DECORATING Highways Agency, which managed and maintained From: Peter Greaves The Plantation the Blackwall Tunnel, I can vouch for its vital Aged 87, with a recent new hip, I went on the Interior/Exterior/ importance to Londoners as an essential artery People’s Vote march on Saturday. PHOTO: between north and south London. Vesna Hardy Experienced Reliable Clean At one point I was appropriately near the Once built, the Silvertown Tunnel will ensure statue of Churchill at the corner of Parliament Fully Guaranteed/Insured. Londoners continue to travel safely and smoothly Square, and saw a man with a placard which The victim giving his talk to the Mycenae References available. between both parts of our capital. Until then they read: “Never in the history of peacetime politics House Local History Group Free no obligation quote will have to struggle daily to get through. has so much damage been caused by so few to Correction and advice given No amount of unrealistic, impractical hand- so many.” Perhaps my favourite, carried by a wringing by the Greens will solve the daily In Mary Mills’ article on the Humber little girl of about 10, was: “I am too young to Road Neighbours in October’s issue, JOHN at JAMES & LAMONT problems which beset Londoners, trying to go vote, but I am not too young to care.” Could be about their daily lives. an 'ongoing accumulator', should have been an Office 020 8462 4646 Greta! 'orgone accumulator' – much more Mobile 07802 535695 From: Name and address supplied I hope that now he is a back-bencher our MP exotic, there are web pages about them. [email protected] I refer to the letter about Broadbridge Close in will speak forcefully for a People’s Vote. Apparently it’s all down to Wilhelm Reich and your September issue of the WN. (Another letter page 3 col 1.) energy. Sorry Mary - and Wilhelm. 2 Westcombe News November 2019 NOV 19x_WN.QXD 24/10/2019 11:14 Page 3

LOCAL NEWS BREXIT: ‘A Walk in the Park’ Art Exhibition Althea Battams

n September 26th, a number of The latter interviewed the author, who local residents attended the book- evinced his strong support for Brexit. he Blackheath Art launch of Stuart Wheeler’s About this, Mr Cummings produced his TSociety are pleased to O announce their next Winning Against the Odds: My Life in remark, much repeated on BBC News, that Gambling and Politics.* Readers may “finalising Brexit was like a walk in the exhibition. recall that Mr Wheeler is the millionaire park” compared with the referendum It will be held in the who donated five million pounds to the campaign which he master-minded. Upstairs Gallery at the Tory party before defecting to UKIP. The comment, cheered enthusiastically The book offers a fascinating glimpse by many of those present, elicited one Visitor Centre, into the gambling and champagne set. comment from a bystander: “If he doesn’t Gardens, London SE10 The event, at the prestigious venue of 10, understand the complexity of leaving the 9LW until Sunday 24th Carlton House Terrace, was attended by a EU, he shouldn’t be the Prime Minister’s November, daily from large number of family, friends and figures special adviser.” 10.00am to 5.00pm. in politics, including the Welsh UKIP MP For those readers who enjoy a walk in The exhibition is free Neil Hamilton, and Mr Johnson’s Special the park, and who are VAT registered, we to enter and there will be Adviser, Dominic Cummings. offer this guide (below) on getting ready a broad range of work *Quiller Publishing: £20.00 for Brexit from HM Revenue and Customs. including paintings, drawings, prints, jewellery and ceramics, all for sale ‘Take Back Control’ The WN’s handy guide at very reasonable prices. Right: to business after Brexit; courtesy of HMRC Greenwich Yacht Club Oil by Pat Colman * You should now have your EORI (Economic Registration and Identification) number that starts with “GB”. * Find out if you also need an EU EORI by reading our EORI mythbuster. Go to: Want to learn how www.gov.uk/government publications/hmrc-brexit-communications-resources Rosie Kay’s * Go online to find more step by step guides - for importers, go to www.gov.uk/prepare-to-import-toUK-after-Brexit. to play bridge? We recommend that you consider TSP (Transitional Simplified Procedures) New Ballet to make your importing as easy as possible. ridge is a fascinating game, and once - for exporters, go to www.gov.uk/prepare-to-export-from-uk-after-brexit. ommonwealth Games Handover Byou start playing it, it is very easy to Focus on understanding what information you’ll need to give to the person CCeremony choreographer Rosie Kay's get “hooked”. you are selling to, so that they can complete the transaction newest work takes ballet and tutus into the In a letter to a national newspaper, one * Keep up to date with the latest Brexit news including details of upcoming webinars 21st century, using dance and science to correspondent wrote: “With reference to a we are running on importing and exporting with the EU after 31 October. create an exquisite performance of recent letter about dealing with loneliness, * Register for your free email update service, go to www.gov.uk/hmrc/business-support pleasure, beauty and finesse. I remember my mother saying that only and select “business help and education emails”, then select “Brexit”. Rosie Kay's Fantasia is at at Trinity the very brave enter their later years with- out being able to play bridge.” Easy-Peasy. Yes, a walk in the park is called for . . . Laban on Thursday 14th November at 7.30pm. Described by Sanjoy Roy in the Even better if you start young! Recently Guardian as “a winning combination, a 17-year-old joined the Blackheath Don’t despair - help is at hand: cartoonishly full of skill, verve and Bridge Club, and is hooked already! vitality, and tickling your senses of both However, it’s never too late to learn, and luckily, there are opportunities for doing mall and medium-sized businesses and export arrangements, EU staff, and humour and wonder”, the performance so here on our doorstep. Ivy McGeorge (SMEs) in Greenwich will be able to changes to contracts and insurance. breaks new ground. S has been running Beginner’s classes on benefit from face-to-face Brexit prepara- Sign up to the Council’s business e- The choreography is inspired by neuro- tion advice, on their doorstep, as Woolwich alert service to receive updates about scientific research, and explores what it is Tuesday evenings 7.30 - 9.30 in Mycenae Centre Library was announced as one of workshops and drop-in sessions at: that makes dance beautiful to watch and House. These classes have started, but the Mayor of London’s nine new London royalgreenwich.gov.uk/businessalerts experience. Delve deeply into a soundtrack they would still be be suitable for those Growth Hub centres. As the Brexit looms, businesses are of Vivaldi, Purcell, Beethoven and Bach seeking to refresh their memories of the The Hubs offer advice and resources, bracing themselves for the possibility of a and revel in the vision of three bold female game. Please ring Ivy on 8293 5354. and a series of events from Nov, 1st to help critical skills shortage. Morgan Jones, a dancers as they discover love, emotion, There is also a Refreshers’ Course small business leaders prepare for the Kent based recruitment firm is helping loss and joy. starting at 10.00 am on Tuesday mornings impact of Brexit on areas such as import local businesses to prepare. After the show, a Q & A session gives us in Mycenae House. Just drop in! the chance to learn more about Rosie Fancy a game? See What’s On on p. 5 for Views expressed are not necessarily those of either Kay's dance company, her artistic vision the times of games on offer at Blackheath Letters (cont.) the Westcombe Society, or the Westcombe News and the research behind the choreography. Bridge Club. Visitors welcome!

From: Lystra Riches Lansdowne Lane urged MPs in the commons to read the Little I hope I am not the only reader to be shocked Red Book. Mental health Suite closes by the contents of the open letter from an And as far as lying is concerned, it has anonymous headteacher featured in October’s recently emerged that, while he was at the GLC, WN. McDonnell lied so blatantly about fictitious Pre-Admission Suite (PAS) at Oxleas were difficulties accessing food and drink. The author is entrusted with the responsibility "Tory cuts" that even "Red Ken" Livingstone ANHS Foundation Trust has closed, • There was a lack of private space and for shaping very young minds but shows had to sack him and stated that it made them following a Care Quality Commission limited access to shower facilities.There him/herself to be completely biased politically. “look like Goebbels.” focused inspection in August 2019. was no separation of male and female All the instances of bad behaviour described – Headteacher, whoever you are, have the Oxleas mental and community health patients and no safe places for possessions. most of them pretty minor – were exhibited by courage to identify yourself: If you're intent on trust’s PAS in Oxleas House, Woolwich • The PAS was a potentially overly MPs from the Conservative party. (Our head- giving an unbalanced view of politics, brain- was a waiting area for patients who had restrictive environment for patients. teacher needs to inform her charges that the washing the children whose education you are been assessed as requiring an inpatient The PAS has now been closed. The WN term "Tory" is used as a term of abuse.) responsible for, then the parents should be able admission but were not subject to the has no information on what, if anything, No mention was made of the fact that the to avoid your school. Labour Party at the moment is failing to deal Ed: The writer assured the WN that the Mental Health Act. Patients stayed in a will replace it. with a shameful outbreak of antisemitism in its comments were an exact reflection of what the waiting area whilst staff tried to find a bed The full report is on CQC’s website at: ranks – at least two Jewish MPs have been children were saying. The letter was addressed on a ward for them. https://www.cqc.org.uk/provider/RPG forced out of the party. to all politicians. Patients were supposed to wait in the I think most people would consider this a bit PAS no longer than 12 hours. ‘excellence‘excellence throughthrough effort’effort’ more serious than Jacob Rees-Mogg lolling on a The CQC inspection expressed serious JAMES REMOVALS JAMES REMOVALS BAR MEMBER NO. JO28 bench. The shadow chancellor, John McDonnell JOHN DANN FURNITUREMAKER JR .com.com concerns about the PAS. - EST. 1984 has publicly expressed a wish to go back in time • The unit was intended for short stays of and murder Margaret Thatcher – a bit more G Fully trained serious than criticising a style of dress which High quality bespoke fitted and under 12 hours, but patients routinely uniformed staff G Full insurance many people, including some Muslims, think freestanding furniture stayed for longer – sometimes days longer, included in emphasises the subjection of women. made to your requirements. placing patients at risk of psychological ALL quotes G Prompt free More recently the same McDonnell recom- Repair and restoration work harm. The facilities did not meet the needs estimates mended that the then Pensions Secretary, Esther also undertaken. of people waiting for long periods. G On-site containerised Call McVeigh should " be lynched." Not surprising • Patients. privacy, dignity and comfort storage sentiments, coming from someone who tells us E-mail: [email protected] was compromised. The room only con- G Discounts for 0800 0157775 that one of his heroes is history's number one long-term storage for a free survey or visit Website: johndannfurniture.co.uk tained upright, non-reclining and armless G Well-established jamesremovals.comjamesremovals.com mass murderer: Chairman Mao – 60 million Tel.0208 852 3047 or 07837 859763 chairs – no bedding was provided. There family business toto requestrequest aa dead Chinese and counting. McDonnell even G Pianos – our forte quotation online Westcombe News November 2019 3 NOV 19x_WN.QXD 24/10/2019 11:14 Page 4

FEATURES The Success on our Jane’s Kitchen Stories: Doorstep WN Reporter My favourite time of year utumn is here, decked out in its with a chermoula dressing. It’s easy Agaudy finery. This is my to prepare and is packed with flavour favourite time of year, inspiring me to and texture, a mainstay of many a cook warming soups, rich stews and party at mine. cake filled with fruit and spice. It’s These proportions are for 4 peo- the kind of food you cook to nurture ple, but it is easy to scale and left the people you love. overs for your lunch box are always a This morning was fine and clear, pleasure. Take about a kilo of mixed there was dew on the grass and a light winter vegetables, maybe carrots, mist hanging low on Blackheath. I pumpkin, celeriac and beetroot, but was out early with the dog walkers choose whatever you have in or like. and joggers, enjoying the riot of Peel them, cut into chunks, then mix colour in the park. Returning home, them in a bit of olive oil, salt and I was ready for tea, pepper and roast for 40 sourdough toast and jam, Jane minutes or until tender (pre but finding no jam in Bryan-Brown heat your oven to 180C). the house I embarked on Meanwhile make your making apple butter with the last of dressing, I usually tip all the ingredi- the fruit annually given by a friend. ents into a clean jam jar and shake it A sharp smell of apples poaching in to mix thoroughly. juice and cider vinegar pervades the Dry roast, then grind 2 teaspoons PHOTOS: Neville Grant house as I sit down to plan what to of cumin seeds, and a teaspoon each At the opening: The Mayor of Greenwich, Cllr Mick Hayes, with the lady mayor, Gillian Hayes; cook for a Bonfire Night party. of fennel and coriander seeds, it only Director Wendy Fidler, head teacher Rathi Bimal and a trustee Roger Patenall Something simple, seasonal and takes a minute or two in a frying pan. delicious is the order of the day – Mix them with a finely chopped n Tuesday October 1st, the Mayor of positive impact, both locally and globally, I want to cook ahead so that preparing shallot, a red chilli (deseeded/ Greenwich, Cllr Mike Hayes, came to by raising awareness about autism and other supper doesn’t spoil an evening with chopped), 3 tablespoons of olive oil, Ocut the ceremonial ribbon to mark the special needs. They also provide a range of friends. ½ lemon juiced, a tablespoon of red official formal launch of the new MEfA tailored support and interventions which are It’s impossible to go wrong with wine vinegar, a clove of crushed Montessori Forest School/ Wellbeing Area on otherwise not locally available.” great sausages, oven-cooked, served garlic, 2 teaspoons of smoked Westcombe Hill. Contacts: Wendy Fidler MontDip (Hons) with crusty bread and an amazing paprika, a teaspoon brown sugar and Montessory Education for Autism is a FRSA MEWI MCMI MIoD AI DMS salad you have an easy, crowd-pleas- a pinch of cinnamon. charity founded in 2009 to support children, MEfA Academic Director/Trustee. ing supper. Go to a butcher for the Season to taste, pour over the hot young people and families with autism and Montessori Education for Autism (MEfA) is best sausages, I use Drings where vegetables then leave them to cool, special needs and to promote good mental based on Montessori House, 135 Westcombe they make a fantastic selection with just before you serve them, mix in health and well-being. Hill, London SE3 7DP free range Blythburgh pork. some salad leaves, add some MEfA had a small “soft launch” for the local Careline: + 44 (0) 208 305 2202 My best winter salad comes from crumbled feta and perhaps a few community in July to recognise the support Wendy Direct: +44 (0) 7710 433 994 a Leon book - roasted root vegetables toasted seeds. received from the Neighbourhood Growth Fund. In attendance were Cllr Geoff Brighty, the chair of the Westcombe Society, and many past and present parents, children Fireworks may be fun – students – and teachers. Also present were representatives of but not for pets . . . Mycenae House Community Centre, who have supported MEfA for many years and continues ith the fireworks season fast By far the most commonly to host its successful conferences. Wapproaching, pet owners and reported cases were self injuries MEfA runs special classes for babies, toddlers animal keepers are being encouraged- caused by fireworks-related anxiety: and school-age children. It also supports parents by vets to start preparing now to for example, a dog who tried to and professionals in the community and inter- prevent possible injury and distress escape from its kennel and in the nationally through the conferences and train- to their pets and livestock during process pulled out all of its front ing programmes it organises. traditional dates such as Bonfire teeth, including the canines In thanking the mayor, MEfA’s Director, Night, Diwali or New Year’s Eve. In another case, a horse suffered a Wendy Fidler, said: “Our approaches make a The centre is well-equipped with At up to 150 decibels, fireworks can fractured splint bone as it bolted from books and materials to suit all ages be as loud as a jet engine and, with its field. What is autism? many animals particularly sensitive to The BVA is encouraging pet owners noise, this can be a traumatic and and livestock keepers to consult with Autism is a developmental delay upsetting time of the year for them. their vet as far in advance as possible characterized by difficulties with social In a survey carried out by the to discuss management and treatment interaction and communication, and by British Veterinary Association (BVA) options if their animals get severely challenges with imagination and behaviour. last December, around one in 14 vets distressed by fireworks or other Parents usually notice signs during the first three across the country reported seeing noises. years of their child's life. These signs often animals with firework-related injuries A phobia of fireworks can be develop gradually, though some children with in 2018. effectively treated with appropriate autism reach their developmental milestones Equine vets were significantly behaviour-modification techniques, at different stages. more likely to report such cases, with which can achieve long-term success For fuller information please visit the website of almost one in five last year seeing with professional input and owner Montessori Education for Autism (MEfA) firework injuries to horses and ponies commitment and patience. Beautiful space available when needed

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4 Westcombe News November 2019 NOV 19x_WN.QXD 24/10/2019 11:14 Page 5

WHAT’S ON SUN 17th. Nov 10:30 - 4.45pm MID-SUMMER OPERA Ar t s BLACKHEATH CHRISTMAS FAIR BLACKHEATH HALLS Fri. Nov 22nd 7.00pm & Sun. Nov. 24th at THE ARTS SOCIETY, BLACKHEATH FROM GARBO TO GARLAND: THE MAGICAL The Friends of Age Exchange much 5.30 pm SE London-based Midsummer ART OF HOLLYWOOD Dr Geri Parlby Thursday loved fair is back for its seventh year, Opera presents semi-staged performances 28 November Lights, camera, action! Inside stories bringing together specially selected of Poulenc's of the art and artifice of the early decades of crafters and seasonal fun. DIALOGUES DES CARMÉLITES Hollywood. We follow the work of stills photogra- The fair is again in the beautifully sung in French at St John's Waterloo SE1 phers, costumiers, publicists and the actors and movie refurbished Great Hall with 40 stallholders moguls who made it all happen. 2.00pm. with tea and 8TY. Soloists Sophie Boyer, Marie Elizabeth with a delightful range of gifts for all ages. coffee, and lectures at 2.30. Venue is St Mary's Seager and Zoe South and the Chorus & Church Hall, Cresswell Park Blackheath Visitors wel- Entrance is £3.50 but free to Friends of Age Orchestra of Midsummer Opera will be Exchange and children under 16. come, please pay on the door. conducted by David Roblou. Printing in Blackheath Tickets in advance £24 (£22 concs) since 1978 THE ARTS SOCIETY GREENWICH c o MMunit Y from 020 7652 0070 or online at Mon. 11th Nov. Jo Banham talks on THE AGE EXCHANGE From your ideas or Artwork ROARING TWENTIES: ART, DESIGN AND Local artist Fiona Bell-Currie has generously donated Midsummer Opera: Performance Diary we can print at a HIGH SOCIETY : a loud and boisterous decade, her time and skill to create another beautiful reasonable cost: marked by novelty, modernity and huge social, Christmas card for Age Exchange. Available in packs MUSIC AT THE HALLS • Business cards technological, and economic change following the of five at the Exchange from October. • Invoices • Letterheads Box Office 020 8463 0100 dark days of the Great War. Wine available from Christmas Raffle in aid of Age Exchange: many • Books • Brochures FRI 01 NOV 7.30pm AHMED DICKINSON CAR- 7.15pm. Lecture starts promptly at 7.45pm. wonderful prizes! Tickets on sale from Fri. 1st Nov. • Forms • Invites Christmas Lunch Wed 3rd December 12.30-3.30 pm DENAS GUITAR Award winning Cuban guitarist Guests: £10 at the door – please contact nancybet- Ahmed Dickinson Cardenas • Wedding StationEry [email protected] to reserve a place. at the Clarendon Hotel. Book before 27th Nov! BLACKHEATH & GREENWICH WOMEN’S Sun 3rd Nov. 2.30pm BLACKHEATH HALLS 1a Lizban St Greenwich University, King William Court, Old Royal ORCHESTRA COURSE Come and join our impres- Naval College, Greenwich SE10 9LS. INSTITUTE Meets first Wednesday of every month, blackheath, London Se 3 8SS doors open at 7.00pm for 7.30pm at Sunfields sive Blackheath Halls Orchestra t el: 020 8853 2268 LIFE DRAWINGS at Mycenae House Methodist Church on Old Dover Road SUN 3rd Nov. 3.00pm KATHLEEN FERRIER: Every Thursday 7.00 - 9.00 pm £15.00 per session BLACKHEATH BRIDGE CLUB duplicate sessions WHATTALIFE! A new one-woman play with e mail: [email protected] under the guidance of Jon. No. need to book. in Mycenae House Mon & Thurs 7.15pm and on Wed music. The story of the great English contralto. www.trojanpress.com Info: Tel Jon on 07435 569963 at 1.15pm. Newcomers welcome. Mon 4th Nov 10.0am MATTHEW TAYLOR’s MYCENAE HOUSE Nov. - December Would you like to learn this fascinating game? APPRECIATION COURSE: DVORAK THE RENAISSANCE WORKSHOP Exhibition of Bridge lessons Tuesday evenings 7.30 to 9.30 at MON 4th NOV 13:10h RECITAL: ANNA SZA- a wide range of work by pupils from the Life Drawing Mycenae House, Mycenae Road. For more details, LUCKA PIANO: a prize-winning Polish pianist. c Hil dr en & FAMil Y classes held at Mycenae House by Jon Long. please contact Ivy McGeorge on 020 8293 5354 or Free, retiring collection for the Halls. email: [email protected] [email protected] TUE 12 Nov 13:30h AUTUMN TEA DANCES Book for the Panto! SLEEPING BEAUTY CHARLTON HOUSE www.charltonhouse Come and spend a magical afternoon in the friendly BLACKHEATH HALLS 0208 856 3001 Mulberry Tea Rooms atmosphere of a Blackheath Halls tea dance. £7.00 inc Sat 2nd Nov. EGGS ON LEGS Meet a family of t HeAt r e Jacobean Entrance Hall Mon-Fri 9am- 4pm light refreshment zany Eggs on Legs in Garlic Theatre's 'cracking' Dr Lunchtime concert every Friday 1.00pm – 2.00pm TUE 12 Nov 7.30pm BEATS IN THE BAR THE GREENWICH THEATRE, Crooms Hill, Seuss style world full of 'eggcentric' puppets! SUNDAYS AT SUNFIELDS at Sunfields Methodist Featuring guest artists alongside student bands London SE10 8ES Box Office: 8858 7755 Sat 23 Nov. 3.00pm CARDBOARD CARNIVAL Church 95 Old Dover Road, Blackheath SE3 8SJ MON 04 NOV 7.30pm BLACKHEATH GOES Tues 29th Oct - Fri. 1st Nov.: SHAKESPEARE Lempen Puppet Theatre combine the music of 1.00 - 4.00 pm First Sunday of each month. ALL GOSPEL 2019: COURSE continues SCHOOLS FESTIVAL 7.00 pm £10.95/concs. £8 Carnival of the Animals with the creative potential of older people and their carers are welcome to join us THU 14 NOV 19:00hTRINITY LABAN CHORUS Sat 2nd -Sun 3rd Nov: GETTING THE THIRD the simple cardboard box in a magical family show for lunch and lighthearted activities, including remi- PRESENTS: A NIGHT AT THE OPERA DEGREE: the discrimination battle in football. £13 | £11 conc. | £7 under 12s niscence, arts and music. We are experienced in sup- Classics from the opera repertoire. £5.00 Sat 2nd Nov. 7.30 MATT PARKER: HUMBLE PI. SHERINGTON CHILDREN’S CENTRE, Tel. 0208 porting those who may have extra needs due to health SAT 16 NOV 7.30pm BLACKHEATH HALLS Hilarious occasions when maths meets comedy . – 3053140 - 14, Sherington Road SE7 7JW conditions like arthritis, dementia or strokes etc. ORCHESTRA: wonderful classical pieces Hate maths? No more! £16.00 Concs. £13.50 DAD’S STAY AND PLAY session every Wednesday, Carers also invited. Sundays at Sunfields is provided £13 | £11 conc. | £7 under 12s Wed 6th - Fri 8th Nov. 7.30. Matinee Thurs. 1.00pm -2.30pm –free drop in Sherington Children’s free; please do just come along – there is no need to Mon 18th Nov, Tues 19th & Wed 20th 6.30pm 2.30pm CURTAIN’D SLEEP Why do Ophelia and Centre, all home dads welcome Each 2nd Saturday of book. FREE ROYAL GREENWICH INSTRUMENTAL GALA Lady Macbeth die off-stage? Stunning fusion of the month – 10,00am -11.30am – free brunch/arts and GLOBAL FUSION MUSIC & ARTS The Royal Greenwich Music Hub offers a spectacular movement with Shakespeare’s words combined with craft Contact [email protected] for Events at the Earl of Chatham Pub, Woolwich showcase of the wealth of musical talent within the Seth Lakeman’s atmospheric folk music. more details, www.selondondads.org.uk Sun Nov 3rd Blues Night 7.30 - 10.00pm Free Borough. £7 | £6 conc. | £5 under 12s Fri 8th - Sun 10th Nov. 7.30 Sat. Matinee 2.30pm Thurs 19th Nov. Poetry, Spoken Word & Music MON 25 NOV 1.10pm LUNCHTIME RECITAL: LEST WE FORGET A unique take on WW1. Night 7.30 - 10.00pm Free NATASHA SACHSENMEIER VIOLIN & ALIS- £13.00 SA FIRSOVA PIANO Free, but a retiring collection spo Ken Wo r d for Blackheath Halls MON 25 NOV 19:30h CHRISTMAS CHORUS BLACKHEATH HALLS COURSE Come and join us to sing some Musical Nov. 4th Rob Beckett & Romesh Ranganathan Theatre classics at our Blackheath Halls Christmas and friends perform for a special night in aid of concert. £60 | £54 (concs) the Matt Palmer Trust, a mental health charity TUE 26 Nov 7.30pm BEATS IN THE BAR SLEEPING BEAUTY POETRY EVENING WED 13 NOV 8.00pm SAT 30 Nov 3.00pm A FESTIVE FAMILY SING- 22nd Nov 2019 - 5th Jan 2020 Blake Morrison and Graham High and other A-LONG An afternoon of festive singing for the Pantomime returns to Greenwich following last local poets present a selection of their poetry. whole family to join in and enjoy! £9 adult | £6 year’s triumphant Robinson Crusoe! £12.00 including glass of wine under 16s INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SOCIETY 12th November Pieter Van der Merwe A GREAT THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL LIGHT INN THE EAST (END): GAS AND THE FESTIVAL OF EARLY MUSIC ROYALTY THEATRE, STEPNEY 1816 This will be held in the Studio in Age Exchange BLACKHEATH HALLS MYCENAE HOUSE LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Meeting every Monday morning at 10.00am. For Thurs 7th Nov-Sat 9th Nov.10.30am membership enquiries, please ring 8313 3384 or 8852 6821 The annual vibrant market place attracting BLACKHEATH SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY over 100 early music instrument makers November 15th SEEING WITH ATOMS - SOME from around the globe. Visit shops, music TECHNIQUES IN MICROSCOPY Prof Paul publishers, recording companies, societies Dastoor, Cavendish Laboratory FRIDAY LECTURES AT 7.45pm usually on the and forums, all gathered under one roof. THIRD FRIDAY of every month from September to May, unless otherwise indicated, in Mycenae House Visitors are welcome at all meetings, and are request- ed to donate £3 to the Society. Learning is fun WANTED! Susan Clark Interiors St Olave’s is a Prep School in More volunteers to distribute the WN – and to for boys and girls help with the Westcombe Society’s community aged 3-11 years events. We have recently lost two of our wonderful WN deliverers, who have moved away, so more ! Broad, child-centred curriculum volunteers are more than welcome. Please phone ! Excellent results in the 11+ 8853 2756 if you would like to help. selection ! Clubs, outings and residential MYc enAe Ho use l ive event s: no veMBer Susan Clark Interiors trips ! Excellent pastoral care MYCENAE HOUSE, 90 Mycenae Road SE3 7SE ! Small classes Fri 1st Nov 7.30pm - Clive Carroll. Acoustic guitar phenome- non performing live with friends. £16. ! Specialist staff for PE, IT,Music, Fri 8th Nov 8pm - JazzNights. Candlit Live Jazz music event French and Drama hosted by Dave Silk. £10. 113 Humber Rd ! Sibling fee reduction Thurs 14th Nov 4pm - Bach To Baby. Classical Concert for London SE3 7LW ! Before and after school care families. £10. Fri 22nd Nov 7.30pm - Southern Aces. Sonic Promotions Te l : 020 8294 8930 presents good time Soul & R&B. £10. Complete renovation to Decoration, Construction, Project www.stolaves.org.uk Thurs 28th Nov 2-4pm - Daytime Disco for people with dis- Management Interior Design, Kitchens & Bathrooms abilities. Dance the afternoon away with live DJ's playing Bespoke Curtains & Blinds, JoineryUpholstery, great tunes! £2/carers free. Fri 29th Nov 7.30pm - Cajun Night. Global Fusion Music & Furniture, Gifts, Cards Arts present cajun live music, dance and food. £12. Fri 6th Dec 7.30pm - Robert Vincent. One of the UK's top Tel. 0208 305 2299 Americana artists, supported by The Kimberleys. £16.. For further information visit www.mycenaehouse.co.uk www.susanclarkinteriors.com

Westcombe News November 2019 5 NOV 19x_WN.QXD 24/10/2019 11:14 Page 6

FEATURES

Simon Black of : English Heritage looks at The Courtalds

Eltham has been done up by the from the family firm – the Courtaulds “Stephen Courtaulds who received me. textiles and chemicals company. By nature, The Courtaulds did The house is quite a modern one built by Stephen was quiet, reserved and cautious. not have children, them, but the old Hall dating from the 14th Deeply affected by his experiences as an but they adopted and century [sic] has been restored beautifully. officer in World War I, he was described as brought up two of We went all over the house and the moat ‘thinking much and saying little. Ginie’s nephews: garden and had tea in the Hall. A charming His great passion was art – his private Peter and Paul. visit.” – Queen Mary, writing about a visit collection included works by Bellini, Animals also played to Eltham Palace on 8th June 1938 Tintoretto, Veronese and Mantegna. He a big part in their But if Queen Mary had visited Eltham was also a director of Ealing Studios in the lives, and the most Palace just a few years earlier, she would era of the classic Ealing Comedies: studio famous animal have found a very different scene. As we boss Michael Balcon called Stephen his resident at Eltham discovered in Part 1 (WN, Sept.), the once ‘Rock of Gibraltar’. was undoubtedly magnificent royal palace complex and Mah-Jongg the hunting lodge favoured by medieval and The attraction of opposites Madagascan ring- Tudor monarchs had declined into a sad Stephen’s marriage to Ginie was by all tailed lemur. Bought and neglected ruin, overlooked by the shell accounts an attraction of opposites. She is from Harrods as a of the 15th century Great Hall. reputed to have had a lively Italian wedding gift from Fortunately for Queen Mary and all of temperament: vivacious, unconventional, Stephen to Ginie in 1923, ‘Jonggy’ lived The impressive Entrance Hall: us, the site was rediscovered in 1933 by impulsive, extrovert and chic. She also had with the family for the next 15 years. A step back in time the wealthy society couple Stephen and a snake tattoo running up her right leg, Much loved by the Courtaulds, he was Palace to its 1930s glory. Visitors today Virginia (‘Ginie’) Courtauld. They wanted supposedly the result of a teenage dare. less popular with guests due to his habit can imagine they are guests of the a substantial semi-rural property within The Courtaulds moved into Eltham of biting them under the dinner table. Courtaulds, stepping into the breath- easy reach of central London. Palace in 1936, although they always taking Swedish-designed Entrance Hall Two young architects – John Seeley and called it Eltham Hall to avoid their mail World War II which has appeared in films and TV series Paul Paget – were appointed to design a being sent to the local Palace cinema. The The Courtaulds moved into their new home from Poirot and Marple to The Crown. new house boasting an ultra-modern design new house included 11 bedrooms with in 1936, but their time at Eltham was dom- Other highlights include the stunning and the latest technology, adjoining a sym- ensuite bathrooms – at the time a new and inated first by the threat and then the reali- art-deco dining room with its shimmering pathetically restored Great Hall. Between luxurious concept. Weekend parties were ty of a world at war. Ginie was a stalwart ceiling of brushed aluminium leaf, and 1933 and 1936, Seeley and Paget set about lavish affairs for a glamorous set drawn of the local Women’s Voluntary Service, Ginie’s outrageous bathroom featuring gold their commission, appointing leading from the worlds of film, music and politics. while Stephen served with the Civil mosaic tiles, onyx fittings and a gold lion’s craftsmen and interior designers from When guests crowded into the restored Defence. In September 1940, he fought to head tap. around the world to create a range of Great Hall for dancing, the musicians in extinguish fires caused by incendiary The Courtaulds were also very keen lavish art-deco inspired interiors and out- the Minstrel’s Gallery came from the best bombs lodged in the roof of the Great Hall. gardeners, and visitors can enjoy walking standing garden landscapes. dance bands of the era, such as Ambrose Running such a complex house in wartime around one of London’s finest 1930s Stephen’s considerable fortune came and Lew Stone. without staff was difficult, and Ginie was gardens, including a rock garden, a moat deeply affected by the death of one of their walk, formal rose garden and a progression nephews serving in the Far East. As a of garden rooms similar to contemporary result, the Courtaulds left Eltham in 1944 designs at Sissinghurst and Great Dixter. and never returned. They lived briefly in Today’s Eltham Palace is a really Scotland before settling in Southern extraordinary site – a time-travelling Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Stephen died synthesis of medieval majesty and art-deco in 1967 and Ginie in 1972. elegance. After all, where else in the world This stunning From 1945 to 1992, Eltham Palace can you step from the 1470’s into the art-deco dining became the home of the Royal Army 1930’s and back again? room has often Education Corps. Please visit the English Heritage website been featured for times, prices and information to help in films English Heritage plan your visit. and TV series When the army moved out, English www.english-heritage.org.uk/ such as Heritage took over and restored Eltham visit/places/eltham-palace-and-gardens Poirot, and The Crown

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6 Westcombe News November 2019 NOV 19x_WN.QXD 24/10/2019 11:14 Page 7

Planning applications can be viewed in the library, or at the Woolwich Library on the lower ground floor of the Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington St. They may also be viewed on www. green- ENVIRONMENT wich.gov.uk/planning PHOTO Climate crisis: Gary Fuller/PA The Lie of the Land

Keep Wildlife In The Wild International wildlife charity Born Free has plastic. announced the launch of its new education- Science and Wildlife TV Presenter Liz al ‘Great Debate’ initiative and is now call- Bonnin, who is backing Born Free’s Great ing out to schools across the UK to get Debate, said: involved. “The full impact of plastics on our envi- Born Free’s Great Debate is designed to ronment is only just beginning to be provide teachers with the tools to engage realised. I have seen Shearwater chicks their students in meaningful debates about bringing up plastics from their stomachs, key wildlife or environmental topics that and seals entangled in fishing nets. I have will affect their future. It will not only also seen how corals are dying because allow students to gain knowledge about the plastic is delivering toxic loads of bacteria debate topic, but also offer them skills that to an already stressed ecosystem, damaged im Jackson, Professor of Sustainable in the last 70 years. Driven by poor policy will help them to research, frame and by toxic chemicals. The more I learn about TDevelopment at the University of and perverse incentives, the farming and deliver an argument while becoming the scale of this problem the more I know Surrey and Director of the Centre for the food system has become one of the main responsible citizens, reducing their impact that it’s important to act now, before it’s Understanding of Sustainable Prosperity, drivers of human and ecosystem crisis. on biodiversity and the environment. too late.” has made a public statement about the way “The food and agriculture system “Future generations will have the Born Free’s education team is providing we have been using land contributes to accounts for a quarter of greenhouse gas tremendous responsibility of protecting our schools with five FREE one-hour lesson climate change. He said: emissions overall. None of this is planet from a catastrophic decline in plans, activities and resources, with key “Our future depends on the land: our own inevitable. Our recommendations for the wildlife from which our ecosystem may curriculum links for KS2, KS3 and KS4. health and that of the land are inextricably UK included a ten-year transition plan for never recover,” explains Laura Gosset, For more information or to download the intertwined. So the recent special report sustainable farming, a comprehensive Head of Education at Born Free.” resources, schools should visit www.born- from the IPCC on climate change and land land-use strategy and a National Agro- Each academic year Born Free’s Great free.org.uk/great-debate, email the educa- ought to be a profound wake-up call for ecology Development Bank to facilitate Debate will focus on different topics, with tion team at [email protected] somnambulant politicians. investment in our most vital natural asset: 2019’s launch topic the uses and abuses of or call Laura Gosset, on 01403 240170. “It documents the enormous impacts that the land that nourishes and sustains us.” human activity and climate change has had The impact on wildlife is also serious. on the land in recent decades: soil erosion, More than a quarter of mammals are facing Ann Hill water scarcity, desertification, declining extinction, according to a detailed and Did you know . . . ? yields and wildfire damage. The outcome devastating report on the state of the natu- is very alarming: the real risk of serious ral world in the UK: the causes: climate id you know that there is now a Centre or at one of the Hospice’s shops and worsening food insecurity. heating, and agricultural practices. The DWorkshop at the Recycling Centre in ready for sale, such as at their shop in the “As our work on the RSA’s Food, report also said one in seven species are Nathan Way in Thamesmead to bring old Blackheath Standard. This raises money Farming and Countryside Commission threatened with extinction, and 41% of items back to life? for the Hospice. recently revealed, society’s relationship species studied have experienced decline This timely initiative is organised by If you would like to get involved in with the land has been profoundly broken since 1970. Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice mending, painting, wiring, sanding, lifting, in collaboration with the Royal Borough moving, sewing, driving, tea making, of Greenwich. It’s run by a fantastic team laughing, chatting, and generally being (mainly volunteers) who give visitors to helpful, then why not call 020 8311 6680, the Recycling Centre the opportunity to or contact repurposethat.org. donate items for‘repurposing’. And if you want to develop your own The team processes a huge range of up-cycling skills there are training work- items…. unwanted furniture, fireplaces, shops so you too can learn the skills doors, flooring, timber, pallets, tools, needed to produce your own creations. bikes, lighting ... a seemingly endless list. Recent workshops include furniture However, sofas are accepted only if they painting and up-cycling lamps. have a fire retardant tag. All materials and equipment are The team then get to work until they provided and the sessions are held at the end up with something they are really Repurpose Workshop. You never proud of that they either put on display at know…you may become the next ‘Money the Repurpose shop at the Recycling for Nothing’ celebrity!

Travel notes by Christopher Peters PHOTO: Anne Raynsford One of our readers in Lewisham, Anne Raynsford, sent in this photo asking ne thing the travelling public “empty” – yet again. It can’t be seen “Do they normally harvest hay on Blackheath?” Good to see the heath being Oreally depend on is reliable from the Village so in view of the put to productive use as well as being a local treasure. information. Not available on importance of cleaner engines, it station, however, where both sets of needs to be more clearly sign-posted – The Real Point of Education timetable boards at concourse level are and , of course, sorted. in the wrong order. This has happened Every day. residents, and drivers, at Blackheath station too, sometimes, have to put up with very slow traffic The point of trying to get educated is to cultivate mental grip. We all need this so it may be the same elsewhere too. on the A2 on Blackheath Hill A2 com- urgently today because the total environment is getting more and more complicated The booking clerk showed no interest pounded by converging traffic from by the minute. ‘Grip’ means having the basics of keen observation, avoiding bias, in getting them switched. side roads converging side roads. cool abstraction, and awareness of the pitfalls of partial knowledge. On the bright side, London Bridge Do the Department of Transport or These disciplines are not motivated by a thirst to know more, or to get more marks station has won an architectural award the GLA have any desire to improve in a memory test. They are about a determination to sort it out, so that the whole and today looks fine! The directors of matters in the light of the costs gener- “makes sense” and provides a source of confidence. Today schools on the whole are the old London and Greenwich ated in terms of pollution for local res- not doing this, or even trying to do this: they are mostly trying to maximise marks Railway must be looking down with idents and economic loss? A problem in a test or exam. So children urgently need to be helped at home to get this get this kind of approach and grip. some pride. replicated elsewhere, including of The electric charging point in course on the Blackwall Tunnel See: www.philosophyforeducation.moonfruit.com Blackheath Post Office car park is approach roads.

Westcombe News November 2019 7 NOV 19x_WN.QXD 24/10/2019 11:14 Page 8

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