Battersea Matters the newsletter of the Society WINTER 2012

Let it glow, let it glow, let it glow! Suzanne Perkins goes walkabout as Northcote Road lights up for the season

Taking their cue from the sign? Steve, Chris and Tim from Lavender Hill Police Station

Emma, Amy and Zoe munch popcorn

Scott, of The Northcote pub, offers mulled wine Ollie ‘drives’ a fire engine from Battersea in an apron. ‘I look like Fire Station Santa’s bit on the side!’

Annabel, Philippa and Tiffany enjoying hot chocolate on a cold night

Snapping Santa, on the Crime Prevention stall, away: looks as if he’s stumped, this time... photos by Suzanne Perkins Daphne of All Good Gifts gives out gingerbread men visit our website: batterseasociety.org.uk * for regular updates on Battersea Society news, events and planning matters From the editor

The Man future riverside portrayed on page be steaming round the common, on the Bus, 3, and at the thought that the Power trying to make pre-emptive inroads as he says Station will be all but invisible from on my figure before the season of below, tends our side of the river – we will have to Christmas pud and mince pies. to expect the take trips across to Chelsea to see The welfare state has been much worst. With it as the developers do. But on a in the news (and in the cuts) recently. Christmas smaller scale some good things have I’d like to quote our MP, Jane Ellison, coming up been happening. The changes to who said in the House of Commons and a year of joyous festivities almost the road crossings at Lavender Hill/ on 25 October, ‘I believe in the behind us I, however, am determined St John’s Hill and at Battersea Rise/ welfare state. It is an enormously to be a little ray of sunshine. Northcote Road have made them important, civilising aspect of our In this issue we realise that, both more attractive and safer. modern society … it is vital to despite its reputation, London Inspired by Nick Atkins (p 8) I went everything we are as a country.’ remains a remarkably friendly place for a brisker than normal walk on I agree, as I am sure we all (page 7). A year after the Clapham Wandsworth Common in November. do in the Battersea Society. Junction riots people are working It seemed a shame to walk fast with I wish you all a very happy together, having fun and being all the distractions of Kerrygold- Christmas and a fulfilled new year. creative, as STORM (p 6) and the yellow birch trees, squabbling Battersea Arts Centre (p 15) show. moorhens and a heron taking off Jenny Sheridan My sunny disposition clouds from the path in front of me. But now [email protected] over I must admit at the vision of the that chilly December is here I will 020 7350 2749

The man on the Battersea bus paying in since I was eighteen. At the Mike Roden does his best to get into the Christmas spirit. start of our holiday we took a five-day road trip with a couple we met five years ago on a walking tour in New The news that Denis Compton’s that when we see their glittering York. We’d gone for a quick drink with grandson is playing for Yuletide displays we will be similarly them afterwards, got on very well (that’s cricket for those of you who overcome, and promptly set about and then we went our separate ways. are looking baffled) brought back emptying our wallets into their tills. It This long-distance acquaintance was memories of an advert showing an occurs to me that if the three kings kept alive through sporadic emails elegant batsman with glossy, slicked had just decided that travelling all that and by occasional conversations via down hair. Naturally it was promoting way from the east was enough proof Skype (which is a wonder of the age!) the benefits of Brylcreem. Like most of their respect for the new-born king and we finally arranged this trip. males of my generation I used it and left the gold, frankincense and myself, in an attempt to look as suave myrrh at home, then perhaps people San Francisco and sophisticated as David Niven. wouldn’t feel a need to buy pointless It could have been disastrous. We That was a tall order for a ten year old things for their family and friends to knew next to nothing about each in short trousers, though growing the show how much they care for them. other and we would be spending matching moustache was a bigger a lot of time together. They started problem. Then the Liverpool mop- Windfall worrying that we might be smokers. tops arrived, I grew my hair long and That does mean charities have a We got off the plane at San Francisco abandoned hair-cream. I imagined it windfall every January as those and wondered if we’d done the right had gone the way of the threepenny unwanted gifts swell the goods on thing. Of course it was fine. We had a bit and crisps with packets of salt offer in their shops. Many families great holiday and they’re planning to inside.But to my amazement the have started a tradition of buying visit us in Battersea before too long. brand is as still as strong as ever – their Christmas presents in charity The Man on the Bus (that’s me) now marketing itself to the 16–30 age shops. Obviously that is the way has a tendency to expect the worst group. forward. Those gifts can be taken about any approaching event. But back to the shop, then resold and I’m always happy to be proved wrong Pointless we’re in a wonderfully virtuous circle as I was in this case. And I’m sure When Howard Carter took his first of recycling. Christmas this year will be even better look into Tutankhamen’s tomb he We have recently been to California than usual, the roast potatoes crisper, was asked what he saw. ‘Wonderful – to celebrate (hollow laugh) my and the turkey more succulent. And I things…’ he breathed. Perhaps store reaching the age when the state starts wish the same for you, dear reader. managers across the land hope to give back the money I’ve been Mind how you go. 2 Planning Matters The Society has been busy responding to many consultations, says Monica Tross Consultation is the main theme this month with the government just beginning to consult on the Growth and Infrastructure Bill. This is designed to ‘produce economic growth by reducing red tape and the regulatory burden’ with proposals to allow developers to apply for planning permission direct to the Secretary of State. Or in the words of Griff Rhys- Jones, chairman of Civic Voice ‘giving more power to central government’ at the expense of local decision making. A glorious future for East Battersea’s riverfront? This appears to go against the current Secretary of State’s own policies as he recently decided against ‘calling in’ the One Nine Safer route for cyclists, The Gardener’s Arms (Chatham Elms scheme for review on the and bikes for hire Road) application to vary the grounds that it had been approved by TfL have consulted on new plans to operating hours of the nursery was Wandsworth Council and it was their provide a safer route for cyclists at the refused but the developers have decision to make. Unlike an earlier junction of Battersea Park Road and again applied for an extension of the Secretary of State who called in and Prince of Wales Drive near Havelock operating hours (2012/4861). We have agreed the Vauxhall Tower, now being Terrace. objected. built. It had been refused planning These seem sensible but it is There have been a number of permission by Lambeth Council. difficult to assess the effect of these applications for the replacement plans given gasholder demolition of wooden windows with UPVC. Wandsworth Local Plan and much other construction which We have objected to that in Review will affect all traffic in the area. Bolingbroke Grove on the grounds Wandsworth themselves plan more The Council have agreed the that it is within the Wandsworth consultation on the Local Plan (the allocation of funds to support bike Common Conservation Area new name for the Local Development hire coming to Wandsworth and (2012/4724). Framework). They have already TfL are assessing the feasibility of There is much disquiet about consulted on draft Supplementary sites for the docking station (having the signage on the Cash Generator Planning Documents (SPDs) covering already consulted on these). building at 317 Battersea Park Road, Planning Obligations, Refuse and with the hoardings apparently put Recyclables and Housing. Our Nine Elms and Vauxhall up without planning permission. response to these is shown in the New London Architecture ran a New plans have been put in for Council’s report of their consultation seminar on the VNEB area which led The Castle site in Battersea High and several of our points led to to a number of articles including those Street following the refusal of earlier changes in the SPDs. in the Evening Standard, the Financial applications (2012/4647 and 4751). Times and the Observer Review on Gasholders to go 11 November. This last is particularly Garden Centre National Grid consulted on their lively and well worth reading. Go to Note for those with gardens who proposal to demolish the gasholders the Observer, New Review and look live near Winders Road: there is in Prince of Wales Drive and have now for the heading ‘Utopia on Thames?’ permission to change a builders’ yard submitted a planning application, It is by the Observer’s architecture to a small garden centre (2012/3986). 2012/5193.There does not appear critic Rowan Moore. Their application promises delivery by to be any barrier to these being electric car. demolished. Our input to the planning Planning Updates Don’t forget – do let us know your application will focus on the need We objected to an inadequate Travel views and your concerns. We may not to mitigate the effects of the work Plan put forward by Bolingbroke always be able to help but we can try. on neighbours and on traffic. The School. This has been accepted but work is estimated to last 65 weeks conditional on a further plan being Contact: starting next spring, and will result in put forward in December 2013, this to [email protected] considerable quantities of material include details of the survey they plan leaving the site by lorry. once the school is open. 3 Close to the edge She says she is not adventurous – but Anna Wallace abseiled down Battersea Power Station

‘Just step back over the edge’ were I felt sick the last words I heard before I leant We approached the scaffold area back and felt the rope and harness Perhaps where our harnesses were checked go taut. At that moment I must say I for the third time. Before long it was questioned why I was trussed up and a little my turn to go. I stepped up onto the hanging over the edge of Battersea scaffolding, my instructor asked Power Station. I hate heights! nutty! my name, clipped on the karabiner Forwarded an email from The and told me it would be all right. Stroke Association a few months Certainly not what I was thinking at ago, I hadn’t been able to resist. Thames. It holds a special place in my that moment! He then described how They were seeking ‘adventurous heart. I would ‘step back over the edge and types’ for a weekend event to abseil So I was delighted to get walk down the wall’. Whilst he was down Battersea Power Station an opportunity to abseil down calm, I certainly wasn’t. I felt sick. and raise much needed funds for such an iconic building and to My mouth was dry. At that instant, I the charity. I’m not adventurous have a peek into its belly before thoroughly regretted volunteering for – but perhaps a little nutty! it is finally re-developed and this abseil. new life is breathed into it. As my feet were balanced on Londoners love it Walking up to it before the abseil, the edge, he reminded me not Battersea Power Station has been the Power Station seemed different. to look down, and I remember a part of my skyline since moving to A glance at it reminded me that I had saying ‘I can’t do this’. For a split London in the mid-80s. I’ve always committed to abseil 100ft down the second I thought about not doing loved it. Its industrial history. The side of a building that all the reports it and then I remembered how silhouette of the building and its were indicating is crumbling! privileged I was to be able to abseil white towers. The love that so many At 10am on Saturday 3 November, down such an iconic building… Londoners have for it, wanting it to together with seven others, I my Battersea Power Station. remain and be protected. For me, no started climbing the internal And I stepped off the edge. matter what has been built around stairway to the top. My emotions or beside it, it still remains a focus as as we ascended were mixed: fear; http://annawallis.co.uk/tag/abseil I traverse back and forth across the excitement; sadness and pride. www.justgiving.com/annagoanna

4 Adventure playgrounds: staffed or not? Jenny Sheridan listens to the arguments

The borough’s adventure playgrounds home. In her deputation to the Council are in the news again. Last year a a 14-year-old said ‘The staff are there vigorous campaign ended in the to protect us, they are our family and Council rowing back on its proposal our friends.’ She pointed out that the to charge for children to use the presence of the staff puts off gang much-loved playground in Battersea members and drug dealers and as a Park. But its alternative appears to be result there is very little violence or equally unwelcome. vandalism. There are three Council- Councillor Tracey commented, administered adventure ‘The changes to new equipment playgrounds in the borough: that does not need staff supervision Battersea Park, York Gardens and will save around £300,000 a year Kimber Road. The first two are across the three playgrounds. The in Battersea. Wandsworth Council, adventure playground in Battersea which has to save £70 million over four Park will be open the same hours years, is closing the playgrounds over as the park, unlike before, and the winter in order to refurbish them children said, ‘They take care of us’, it will remain free of charge. with new equipment, at the cost of ‘On the tyre swing they push you losing the playleaders and other staff. really hard’, and ‘They stop trouble.’ Free Councillor Kathy Tracey is the Teenagers using the York ‘We have been in discussion with Kids cabinet member for children’s Gardens playground are convinced Company, an organisation which does services. She says, ‘£500,000 will be that without staff it will become a excellent work targeted at vulnerable invested in new equipment at a time no-go area taken over by gangs of children and young people, but they when many other local authorities are older youths or drug dealers. The have no experience of running a large closing their adventure playgrounds surrounding estates have high levels outdoor playground and we felt that or reducing access dramatically. of crime and deprivation and there their targeted approach would be at Battersea Park’s playground will is little for young people to do. odds with the universal approach we have a £200,000 refurbishment offer in Battersea Park. We are still with new wooden and adventurous Vital talking to them about other venues in equipment. It will remain open for Opponents of the changes argue the borough. longer hours. All the playgrounds that retaining the staff is vital. Trained ‘We are in discussions with will re-open in spring 2013.’ play workers can prevent bullying, various organisations about solve disputes and stop older children finding a complementary user for Demolition or teenagers hogging the use of the buildings in the playground, The demolition of York Gardens the equipment. They encourage for example doing the Duke of playground was carried out adventurous play. A comment on the Edinborough’s Award scheme or in October. A petition and a Council’s website makes the point some outward bound activity – demonstration by parents and that as many play workers are male something a bit more aspirational children failed to stop the bulldozers. they act as positive rôle models for than just using the playground.’ Asked what they liked about the staff, kids who may not have a father at

A few ideas for Buy various bits of antipasti Ready-rolled puff pastry: light and easy d from the deli counter, or use d spread with tapenade or other jars eg sunblush tomatoes, olive paste. Roll it up like a Swill Christmas artichoke hearts, roast roll, refrigerate for an hour then peppers, big olives. Put them slice onto a baking tray. Bake at starters or party on a pretty plate or if you have 200c/gas 6 for 15 minutes. food …. time thread them on skewers.

Everybody, but everybody, Mash feta cheese with a couple Top oatcakes, crackers or d loves cocktail sausages, d of cloves of garlic, some d thinly sliced toast with pieces served hot on cocktail sticks. chopped olives, a little yogurt, of blue cheese, and a walnut. You can either leave them lemon juice and dried or fresh Add a dollop of chutney, or plain or roll them in honey and mint. Serve on oatcakes or drizzle with honey. mustard. Make more than you Little Gem lettuce leaves. think you’ll need.

5 ‘Everyone here has been through difficult times’ After years of domestic violence and homelessness, Marie Hanson started a charity to help other women. Jenny Sheridan meets the founder of STORM

A few years ago Marie Hanson had to ‘If OTS members commit to sleep in her car for three nights with coming to the youth club and her five children. She was homeless, trying to get into employment cold, frightened and pregnant. After or training, we reward them years of violence and abuse from her by offering free training for the partner she had gathered the courage theory part of their driving test to flee. and paying for a provisional Now she runs STORM (Support licence. Last year they Trust Opportunity Rebuilding organised our annual peace Motivation), the Battersea charity she concert, where as well as music founded in 2004. Initially its aim was we have ex-gang members and solely to help women who, like Marie, mums of kids who have been were victims of domestic violence. killed on the streets telling their More recently it has stretched out into story. That is very powerful and the community to work with young makes them think.’ people and the unemployed, with a particular focus on people from black Free crèche and minority ethnic backgrounds. A job shop is run once a week, STORM started with just four with access to a free crèche, clients, now it has 1,000. ‘We don’t and the local job centre refers turn anyone away,’ says Marie. ‘If clients for help with writing CVs we can’t help, then we will welcome and work-readiness. STORM them with friendship and signpost has been instrumental in forming STORM’s jobshop helps with CVs and them to another organisation.’ partnerships with local employers. work-readiness Last year 58 job shop members found Mentors paid work and 65 found workplace Based in the Doddington and Rollo training opportunities. Some of these been a combination of art therapy Estate, STORM was aware of the are the kind of women that Marie and creative writing workshop, impact of gangs and of gun and knife originally set out to help – those who addressing women’s experiences crime, all the more so after Marie’s have lost confidence and belief in of emotional as well as physical son was stabbed. One of Marie’s themselves. violence. Marie would like to repeat responses was to take two young Marie attributes the organisation’s this if she can find the funding. gang leaders to South Africa, to take success with people who are often Recently Marie invited council part in an effective anti-gang project. described as ‘hard to reach’ to several leader Ravi Govindia to visit STORM The trip had such an impact on these factors: ‘We are not patronising, to hear at first hand the problems previously violent young people we offer kindness and warmth, we facing STORM’s clients on the that they have now become STORM believe in people, we celebrate Doddington and Patmore estates, mentors and work to give their peers anything positive. And everyone ranging from broken doors to alternatives to a gang lifestyle. who works here has been through dangerous dogs. Marie reports that Another response is the Off the difficult times, whether it’s domestic the women were happy to get their Streets (OTS) youth club, run one abuse, panic attacks, anxiety or lack feelings across to someone in real evening a week for 35 people over of confidence. We know it’s possible authority and that it helped to break 16. ‘It closes at 11 and by then the to come through those things. down the ‘us and them’ perspective. young people are so tired they just ‘When a woman comes to us want to go home to bed,’ says Marie. wanting to get back into work Lunch club plans ‘It is run by young female youth after many years without a job, Soon STORM will be moving from workers, and the young people when we help her write her CV we its small and cramped premises to respect them as they wouldn’t with point out all the skills involved in a larger building, the former Base older people, who may just give them being a home-maker and mother D youth club. Marie plans to open a the same grief they get at home. on a very limited budget. People community café, where young people We give them a hot meal, there’s can turn their lives around. will learn to cook cheap nutritious table tennis, workshops on sexual ‘A woman came to us so broken by meals, with a weekly lunch club for health, media workshops – getting domestic violence that she couldn’t older people, hopefully breaking to see there’s an alternative to anti- stop shaking. Now she is working in down some of the fears between the social behaviour. We ran a business schools on anti-bullying projects.’ generations. workshop which was very popular. A recent STORM project has www.stormempowerment.com

6 London’s so friendly! Beside a shopfront in Northcote Road a sign proclaims, improbably, that Battersea is twinned with Copenhagen. After 16 years in Denmark, Viv Taylor-Gee celebrates similarities and differences I had just arrived from Denmark. I was that nasty tunnel. But there are now independent shops, all will be well. waiting for my luggage at Gatwick some lifts! And good coffee! Thanks One of the joys of coming home when a uniformed man leaned over to the daytimers – the freelancers, was returning to the commons, with his counter and beckoned me over. mothers, unemployed, rich, idle, or their newly wild and shaggy look, In most countries this would spell retired - there is now a plethora very different from Copenhagen’s trouble. Perhaps my jars of of coffee shops in our formal paths and statues. And herring had been detected area. It is possible bicycles are now allowed on by sniffer dogs and I was to get organic the commons and parks! about to be charged with salads drizzled trafficking pickled species? with balsamic, Cycle lanes Maybe my suitcase had shredded ginger, Bicycles are slowly becoming almost gone to Tblisi by mistake? and Moroccan normal, although cycling takes far But no. ‘Where have you unicorn dust. more courage here. In Copenhagen come from today, madam?’ It costs a small cycle lanes are two metres wide, have he asked. ‘Copenhagen’, I fortune but since kerbs separating bikes from traffic, said. ‘Really? So what’s the there are always and bikes have right of way: almost weather like there today?’ That was some customers who everyone cycles. It is free, healthy, it. He was just making conversation. are deep in conversation about easy and safe. In Copenhagen, a After 16 years in Copenhagen, I was the current lack of liquidity in the city of over a million with suburbs of not used to this. Strangers do not Euro Sovereign credit default swap about 2 million, 36% of commuters talk to each other there. If you start market, they can probably afford it. commute by bike. I admit that chatting to someone at a bus stop Denmark is very flat and London is they avoid making eye contact and Daytimers not, but I wish a town planner would quickly check for escape routes. What is happening to our shops? have the daring and resources to Nobody believes me that London Miraculously, and thanks no doubt create a cycling borough, giving the is friendly, but you really notice it after to intensive work and campaigning, bike as much thought as the car. 16 years away. Train announcers Northcote Road has still got two Widespread traffic calming is make jokes, people offer to help you if butchers, a great fish stall, a cheese helping to reduce the danger that you look lost, passers-by swap views shop, a honey shop, a sports shop, a traffic presents, but proper bike about the state of the pavements. book shop, lots of pharmacies and a lanes would reduce the traffic itself. Battersea seems to be a hub of health food shop. Northcote is rich in busy, involved, friendly people. daytimers, rich daytimers moreover, Buzz so it has escaped the worst of the I have only just come back. I can’t Anarchic high street shrivel. However it used yet compare the buzz of international Wonderfully, there are more buses to be even better. I miss the grocers, London, its art, theatres, restaurants in London now and magically, we the Italian deli, the printers, the and creative chaos, to Copenhagen, can often see when the next is due, launderette, the post office. All gone. where everything is just a 20 minute in an electronic overhead message. Some have argued that as well as cycle ride away, and rarely crowded. The bus queues, however, are rapacious supermarket development, Denmark is peaceful, traditional, anarchic. The Brits are good at both the demise of the high street could civilised and cool but it is very complaining, and enduring stoically. be caused by women’s greater rôle in homogenous. We exchange furious looks about the workplace, with less time to shop Danes understand that private (and queue jumping but we don´t make a during the day. But all Danish women privatised) wealth does not make for fuss. The Danes know they can’t be work. However nearly everyone, male a fair society. Their very high taxes, relied upon to queue in an orderly and female, has shorter working which are surprisingly accepted, fashion, so in many shops and banks hours, so they can easily shop locally deliver high class and comprehensive there are numbered tickets. It works and daily. Danish high streets are not public services. But it is good to be well, as you can relax until your dying, their supermarkets are small back in this city where there is little number comes up. and their very well equipped libraries likelihood that your friend is going to Battersea Power Station is up are open every day for long hours. be turned away from a club because for sale yet again, the buses are still Londoners, with their long commutes he is black. Denmark is not always as ripping wing mirrors off the cars and working hours, rely on online liberal and open as you might think. in our street, there is still a lively shopping and huge supermarkets. And Battersea has its own campaign in our road to address Little vegetable stalls perish, as special attractions which we are the traffic vibration, and Clapham they mostly have in Northcote Road just beginning to rediscover. Junction is still a seething mass of market. However, the road is vibrant people moving determinedly along and busy and if we can hang on to the

7 Health meeting applauds public role of NHS Jenny Sheridan takes the temperature at a Battersea Society meeting on health

‘Yes, we do want the NHS to remain • Alcohol, focusing both on users of British Sign Language, who firmly in the public sector’ was the street drinking and on hospital had told her of their largely negative clear message from the loud applause admissions and long-term experience of GP consultations. that greeted an audience comment conditions When she next had a deaf patient in about privatisation in the health her surgery, she was about to print M ental health, especially service. On 31 October the Battersea • out the results when she spotted improving access to Society organised a meeting in a BSL button on her computer counselling the Ethelburga community centre and was able to give a much more to discuss the local NHS and the • Sexual health, with a new clinic appropriate feedback to her patient. forthcoming changes. due to open on the Doddington ‘I wouldn’t have done that before Estate I spoke to that group,’ she said. Integration Questions ranged far and wide on Cancer screening, with a focus Dr Josephine Ruwende outlined the • clinical and managerial topics, but we on bowel and cervical cancer role of the public health service, which were left wanting more answers. How is moving from being part of the NHS • Smoking would the WCCG cope with budget to come under local authority control. cuts? What is the role of voluntary Childhood obesity Public health looks after health at • organisations? What does the WCCG a population rather than individual (For the WCCG’s three-year priorities, really think about private providers? level. Dr Ruwende pointed out that see Jeremy Ambache’s article in many of the roles of local government Battersea Matters Summer 2012) Threat – housing, public open spaces, As an after-note, the day after the To that question about privatisation, transport and roads, social services – meeting, Dr Clare Gerada, chair Dr Ewen replied firmly, ‘It’s not about play an important role in the physical of the Royal College of General privatising’, though a little later he said and mental health of the population. Practitioners, warned that proposed ‘I don’t care whether they are private She felt that being placed within changes to the GP contract will or not as long as they’re providing a the local authority would enable her pose a serious threat to patient care. good service.’ team to bring a health perspective to The government’s plans will include Dr Siân Job is the clinical lead for these areas and would lead to closer clauses making it easier for practices patient and public involvement (PPI) integration of health and social care. to go bust if their income drops. At in the Wandsworth CCG. During 31 After being gently reproved by chair present the NHS protects continuity years as a Battersea GP she has, she Sue Marshall for his use of initials and of care. According to Dr Gerada, small said, seen more than her fair share acronyms – COPD, CRG, PCT (see or single-handed practices are most of health service changes come below for a translation), Dr Rod Ewen at risk. She fears that the changes are and go. But the current changes described the role of the Wandsworth being made to give easier access for she greets with enthusiasm. CCG, or Clinical Commissioning private providers of GP services to Dr Ewen had mentioned clinical Group. This is the grouping that step into the gap. reference groups for particular allowed the government to describe conditions, such as diabetes or Glossary: COPD: chronic obstructive the changes as doctor-led. It includes sickle cell anaemia. Dr Job’s role is pulmonary disease eg bronchitis six GPs, some managers, a nurse and to make sure that patients with such CRG: clinical reference group a patient representative. For its first conditions feed into these groups PCT: Primary care trust(currently year, starting in April 2013, the CCG and that their views are listened to. As commissioners of services, the role being has set six priorities for Battersea an example of listening to patients, taken on by the clinical commissioning group (there are three other localities): she had been to a meeting with deaf or CCG)

It’s a walk in the park Walking more and faster is easy, healthy and enjoyable, says Wandsworth Council physical activity officer Nick Atkins Walking is an excellent natural equipment, and you can start slowly Health Benefits of Walking exercise that can help you stay and build up gently. It’s something Walking regularly will: healthy, live longer and keep happy. you can do with friends and family or • Help your heart and In many ways it is the perfect activity: if you walk in a group you mayeven lungs work better You can do it anywhere and at any make new friends. It has no harmful Lower your blood pressure time, going to the shops or to work,it’s effects on the environment and it’s • free and you don’t need special good for your mental health. • Control your weight 8 Cath TatePhoto Cath

• Improve your mood undertake physical activity In Wandsworth we are blessed with to improve muscle strength K eep your joints, muscles lots of great places to walk, including • on at least two days a week. and bones strong Battersea Park and Wandsworth Common, and the borough is All adults should minimise Increase ‘good’ cholesterol • bordered by Clapham Common, • the amount of time spent and Richmond Park. There are some R educe the risk of being sedentary (sitting) • longer trails that can be walked as some illnesses eg heart for extended periods. disease, type 2 diabetes, part of a walk or over a period of days Adults aged over 64 depression, osteoporosis • for keener walkers. These include the should also incorporate and certain cancers. Wandle Trail, the Capital Ring, the activity that improves Jubilee Walkway, the Green Chain • Help you manage or balance and coordination path, the London LOOP, the Jubilee recover from diseases two times a week. Greenway, the Lea Valley Walk, and and long term conditions the Thames Path – details of these Walking can help people achieve their including some cancers. trails can be found on the Walk 150minutes of activity providing it is London website. done at a moderate intensity. Exercise How much exercise do we at a moderate intensity is much better need? Walk4Life for health than at low intensity and we We’ve all heard the ‘5 a-day’ message If you need some more motivation can increase our intensity simply by about how much fruit and vegetables or prefer to walk in a group there speeding up our walking pace. we need to eat but the message are several options available to you. A moderate intensity is where around how much physical activity Wandsworth Council organises you are slightly short of breath but we need is not as clear or catchy. weekly free, short (30–60min), group still able to hold a conversation, your The Chief Medical Officer recently walks through a programme called heart rate is raised, and you’re slightly released new physical activity Walk4Life. These take place in lots of warm and starting to sweat. The guidelines which outline how much local parks and commons including point that you achieve this intensity activity we need to be taking to stay Battersea Park and Clapham is completely individual and depends healthy. The guidelines state: Common. If you are interested do on your current fitness levels. All adults aged over 19 need contact me to get the details. I am • also looking for volunteers to help to be active on most days Build up lead new walks. It may also be helpful to use a All adults should aim to There are other opportunities • pedometer to count the number of be active for 150mins and groups to join including steps you take. This clips onto your (2.5 hours) per week in the Hammersmith, Fulham and waist band and counts each step bouts of 10mins or longer. Wandsworth Ramblers who you take during the day – the aim is This should be moderate go on longer walks that often to achieve 10,000 steps every day. If intensity activity. take place in the country. you are unused to walking, it may take Nick Atkins 020 8871 6373 Comparable benefits can you weeks or months before you can • [email protected] be achieved through 75mins walk 10,000 steps each day but by of high intensity activity. starting with short distances you can www.walklondon.org.uk gradually build up to reach this target. • All adults should also www.hfwramblers.org.uk 9 Great Bus Journeys of the World No 5 Mike Roden takes a circuitous ride from Chelsea to Peckham on the 345

This bus actually begins its journey began using motor buses in 1902, stables, which hired out horses for on Cromwell Road near the Natural and bus route numbers were special occasions like weddings, History museum but as we arrived introduced in 1906. Before that and then became the home of the at South Kensington a 345 was omnibus passengers had to make Cedars Motor Engineering Company. approaching the stop on Harrington sure they read the destinations When upmarket mews flats were built Road so you must imagine the early painted on the sides to ensure on the stable site, the developers part of this route. We settle in our catching the right bus. It wasn’t long decided not to demolish the original seats and the bus passes the statue before the practice of numbering frontage, and there it still is, proudly of Béla Bartók – the Hungarian London buses became universal. The proclaiming the place’s history. composer who lived in London briefly 345 is a relative newcomer, having This very straight road leads to during 1922. only been introduced in 1995. Clapham Common. This was once There is the usual tedious wait at While I’ve been telling you that, common land for the parishes the lights to turn onto Fulham Road we’ve travelled down Battersea of Battersea and Clapham, but at last we get going, and enter Bridge Road, round the one way but an Act of Parliament saw it medical territory. First there’s the system along Prince of Wales converted to parkland in 1878. Royal Marsden Hospital, flanked by Drive and Albert Bridge Road, the Royal Brompton. Next to that is back onto Battersea Park Road No poor relation the Institute of Cancer Research, and down Falcon Road. This Clapham is the home of three tube the Marsden’s research arm, which part of the journey has been well stations on the Northern line. Of owns the building on the corner. covered in other episodes of this course you know that Clapham This was originally the Chelsea series. Passing the new Travelodge Junction is not in SW4 but there are Women’s Hospital and was opened the bus arrives at Lavender Hill still too many stores who can’t get to in 1880 by the Princess of Wales. and turns left into territory so far grips with that simple fact! Samuel uncharted by Battersea Matters. Pepys lived here for two years until Quentin Crisp A prominent landmark as we his death in 1703, and other past and It’s very Chelsea here, with upmarket come up the hill is Battersea Library present famous residents include (a antique and interior design boutiques which opened in 1890. Further random selection) Kingsley Amis, and a cluster of fashion emporia. along on the left is Battersea Arts Jeremy Brett, Vivienne Westwood and Then the bus turns left onto Beaufort Centre, formerly the Town Hall (which Heather Mills. It’s still an attractive, Street. Quentin Crisp (the ‘Naked opened for business in 1893). bustling place, but Battersea need Civil Servant’) lived in a first floor flat no longer feel like a poor relation. at number 129 from 1940 until he Glimpses According to one estate agent, moved to America in the early 1980s. The route takes us through a good average property prices in our English Heritage decided in 2010 not mix of shops – the usual takeaways, neighbourhood are £150,000 more to approve a blue plaque for Quentin restaurants and convenience stores than in Clapham. because he wasn’t ‘significant – leavened by some interesting Shortly after leaving Clapham enough’. I’m sure his time will come. independent stores. we reach Stockwell, home to one As the bus crosses Battersea Through gaps in the buildings of the UK’s largest Portuguese Bridge, to the right we can see Lots there are tantalising glimpses communities, a fact reflected Road power station which ceased of London landmarks – the Eye, by many of the local cafés and operation in 2002. Closer to us is Westminster Cathedral, and Big Ben. delicatessens. We stop outside the Chelsea Wharf where the General Turning onto Cedars Road brings tube station and remember 22 July Omnibus Company used to store us into Lambeth. The collection 2005 when armed police in search of food for its horses. The company of buildings on the left used to be the previous day’s London bombers 10 pursued Jean Carlos de Menezes, an Nearby is the South London Gallery, Sights to see: innocent Brazilian electrician, onto founded in 1891, a publicly-funded statue of Béla Bartók, South Kensington independant shops, Lavender Hill a waiting train and shot him seven gallery of contemporary art. old stable frontage in Cedars Road, times. In January 2010 a permanent We see another gallery as we The Brixton Academy, memorial, created by a local artist, near the bus station. Peckham The South London Gallery, Camberwell was unveiled at the station. Space is a defiantly futuristic and Peckham Library building, which opened in 2010 of shops remind us our recent visit Rock venue and is dedicated to commissioning to the Asian part of Istanbul. The bus rattles on along Stockwell ‘location-specific artworks.’ Behind Road through unremarkable it is a striking copper-clad building Sea bass residential streets and small shopping whose upper section is supported We go into a noisy shop brimming arcades, past the striking art deco on stilt-like pillars. Peckham with a bewildering variety of fish and frontage of the world-famous Brixton library, which won the Stirling meat. Fighting back the impulse to Academy. This began life in 1929 Prize for Architecture in 2000, was buy a kilo of goat leg, we settle for as the Astoria cinema and theatre. designed by Alsop and Stormer. three sea bass which are on special It closed in 1972, and the building offer. The shopkeeper cheerfully was empty for ten years. After major Blake’s vision scales and guts them for us, and restoration it re-opened as a rock This was once a quiet rural village we head off to catch the train home. music venue, and in 1983 it became surrounded by fields; the last The fish accompany us all the way the Academy. stopping point for drovers taking their to Battersea Park station where we We leave Brixton behind, and head cattle to market in London. In 1765 change trains for . down Coldharbour Lane towards while staying in Peckham an eight Unfortunately the fish carry on to Camberwell. That rare butterfly, the year old William Blake saw his first Victoria, and have not been seen Camberwell Beauty was so named vision: ‘A tree filled with angels’. since. I hope they went to a good after two specimens were found Rural no longer, Peckham has home. somewhere around here in 1748. had a troubled recent history, with They’d probably arrived on ships high unemployment and a lack of delivering timber from Scandinavia economic opportunities leading to to the Docks a couple of miles serious social problems, with a high away. It’s a very long time since one crime rate on the surrounding has been spotted round here but it estates. Things reached a has become an unofficial emblem for tragic climax in November Camberwell, appearing for instance 2000 when 10-year-old on the gates of Burgess Park. Damilola Taylor was stabbed On Peckham Road now, we to death. I’m told things approach journey’s end. Across the have improved somewhat road from Camberwell College of since then. Let’s hope so. Art is the Vanguard Studios, once Apparently this is one of the home of a factory which built the most ethnically diverse vehicle bodies for the first London communities in the UK, and motor buses, and latterly the works the High Street reflects the of Vanguard Luggage whose attaché vibrant mixture of nationalities. cases were standard issue to British The colour, noise and bustle of the forces in the Second World War. place together with the huge variety 11 A cleaner river? There’s still a way to go Amy Prior of the Thames Estuary Partnership describes a project to engage river-loving people

To meet European objectives, the Different strategies Thames needs to be healthier for This group first met in June 2012 fish and other wildlife and also and voiced concerns about the size to contribute to the health and of task and level of consultation happiness of people, such as needed. They also highlighted the Battersea residents, who live near the wealth of information that already river. exists following more than 15 years Your Tidal Thames is a joint pilot of consultation for a multitude of project between the Thames Estuary different management strategies and Partnership (TEP), and environmental plans. charity Thames21. It marks a step The group recommended that towards compliance with the EU the project use this information Water Framework Directive. This and not ‘re-invent the wheel’. We states that all rivers and other bodies have followed this advice and have of water across the European Union completed an exhaustive review should achieve ‘good’ ecological of all past management strategies status by 2027. The tidal Thames is and city-wide and borough policies classed as a Heavily Modified Water to identify where policies have Body and as such can only achieve Consultation has been complex been implemented successfully, ‘good ecological potential’. At present and to highlight the gaps. it has been classified as ‘moderate’. The Final Report and Working be answered by anyone, regardless Catchment Plan will be submitted Opportunities of their expertise or technical to Defra on 21 December 2012, One of our aims in the pilot was to knowledge. This questionnaire and will bring together themes that foster a sense of ownership amongst was emailed to 5,000 members of arose from the public engagement people with an interest in the river. the extensive TEP and Thames21 exercise and the literature review. The intention is not only to improve databases. Responses were collated The report also includes ideas the health of the river for wildlife, into themes. Each month these for practical projects to extend but also to enhance economic were published on both charities’ beyond the pilot. We are working opportunities and enjoyment for websites, and sent to anyone who in collaboration with other Thames people in a sustainable yet equitable had registered for project updates. organisations to raise funds for their way. development and implementation. Reaching as many people as Cleaning up possible within the tidal Thames We then set about meeting as many Network catchment has been very difficult. people as possible. Thames21 One of the most important aspects With such a complex area, and the hold events throughout the year to emerge from the pilot is that a wide range and large number of bringing communities to the river to network of organisations with strong people with a legitimate interest in take part in cleaning up their local links into their communities, and the river, the project team had to stretch. Holding ‘pop-up workshops’ forward-thinking ideas, already exists devise ways of collecting a good alongside provided an ideal along the tidal Thames. Thames cross- section of ideas and opinions. opportunity to talk about the pilot and Landscape Strategies Hampton The Tidal Thames is the area from hear views on how the river could be to Kew and Kew to Chelsea, The Teddington Lock to the the estuary. improved. Cross River Partnership, TEP and The true Thames catchment area We also held one-to-one meetings Thames21 are prime examples of stretches all the way from source to with local authorities, NGOs, this. Consultation is undertaken sea and encompasses all the rivers community groups and industry, on a regular basis through these that eventually drain into the estuary, so as to learn in greater detail organisations and they should be including the Wandle and London’s about issues facing the Thames the starting point for any large scale lost rivers such as the Fleet. Each from regulatory, conservation engagement needed on the river. of these tributaries will need its own and commercial points of view. Real improvements at landscape management plan, and where there In parallel we set up a strategy scale can be achieved, backed by is a pilot already we worked with group made up of key tidal local communities through these types those project teams to keep up to Thames stakeholders including of organisation, with co-ordinated date on issues within their areas. representatives of regulatory bodies, action and financial support. To start the engagement process, recreational groups, NGOs and Thamesweb.com we introduced the project by asking other Thames groups. A full list www.thames21.org.uk four simple questions designed to can be found on our websites.

12 Restaurant review: Entrée extra, and worth it). Jenny Sheridan is underwhelmed, Sadly for my figure, I am a chip fanatic, and these triple-cooked When it opened two years ago, all traditionally ones were excellent. Entrée garnered enthusiastic reviews French (no No pud on our menu, and from the likes of restaurant critic cheese or toasted bread). anyway we were full, so we Jay Rayner. I assume the chef has My pork rillettes, recommended missed out on bread and changed since then as when I ate by the waitress, had entirely butter pudding with madeira- there with my friend Carol neither of the wrong texture and were soaked cherries, caramel sauce us was hugely impressed. tasteless and served too cold. and vanilla ice cream (£6). To start with some positive Main dishes were much better. The restaurant was quite full aspects: we chose the £20 two Carol enjoyed her hake on a bed of on a Thursday night, with a buzzy course set menu, which was good crushed new potatoes with crème atmosphere. Service was pleasant, value as similar dishes á la carte fraiche and little pools of parsley there were good wines by the glass would have set us back at least £27. puree. My chicken ballotine was a and maybe the desserts were divine. We were offered a pleasant amuse generous portion of nicely stuffed They do a BYOB offer on Tuesdays bouche of a glass of carrot soup chicken breast with a fine gravy and a and Wednesdays, with £5 corkage. with a rosemary roll. The starters scattering of lentils. It may be worth another try. were disappointing. Carol’s French The meal’s highlight however Entrée, 2 Battersea Rise, SW11. onion soup was good, but not at turned out to be the chips (£3.50 020 7223 5147

Hoovering up the canapés at the Dyson Building Mike Roden was there to quaff champagne, people-watch and marvel at entrepreneurial enthusiasm.

The Royal College of Art’s £21 million Anyway, down to business: the sufficient alcohol gel for both hands. Dyson building had its official opening building is very impressive, with its It was then time to return to the in September. The Departments comfortable 220-seat lecture theatre Printmaking Hall for the opening of Photography and Printmaking and main printmaking hall which ceremony. Rector Paul Thomson together with those of Sculpture are had a display of work by former RCA told us: ‘Finally after 175 years now united on one site. students. we have a campus that mirrors I had already been inside the the way artists practise, moving building during the end of year shows, Inventors between media and materials.’ but I never turn down an invitation to The large public exhibition gallery on Engineer, philanthropist and RCA a prestigious reception like this. There Battersea Bridge Road showcased alumnus Sir James Dyson, whose is the opportunity some of the most successful ventures foundation provided £5million to wander of InnovationRCA, the college’s towards the cost of developing round looking business incubator, which now has the building, cited the strategic important while a purpose-built home at the Dyson importance of art and design as his holding a glass building. It was heartening to visit reason for supporting the project of champagne the displays and listen to the young he felt successive governments had and seeking inventors and entrepreneurs talking failed to understand: ‘RCA graduates the delicious, enthusiastically about their projects. can really transform Britain’s share but somewhat Loowatt is a revolutionary of world trade with their creative elusive canapés. waterless toilet that converts human minds. They already are doing that.’ Sir James Dyson And of course waste into natural gas and fertilizer, He then officially inaugurated cranks out a Peter one keeps an and has the potential to deliver the building by laboriously turning Blake print eye open for the sanitation to millions of people the wheel of the College’s 1829 great and good. deprived of this basic human need. printing press on a rare Sir Peter I’d been told KwikScreen provides a temporary Blake etching (pictured). that the guest list would include well- partition for hospital wards which The Dyson development marks known figures from the art and design is easily moved around, and can be a significant milestone in the RCA’s world and Orla Kiely, Vicki Conran rolled up when not required. A device history. When the next phase and Priscilla Carluccio were among called Orbel offers a clever solution of its £61 million masterplan is those present. I’d love to report to the problems of hospital hygiene. completed in 2015, more than half that I snatched a brief interview for It clips onto the belt or pocket of the of the college’s 1,500 students Battersea Matters with one of these healthcare worker and using a system will be housed in Battersea. Let’s luminaries, but unfortunately I don’t of roller balls can be used in a swift hope that it helps to reinvigorate know what any of them looks like. single-handed movement to dispense this part of North Battersea.

13 Greening the borough Tree, inverted bromide print. Volunteer tree wardens help protect our street trees. Nathan Jones Co-ordinator Andrew Wills describes the scheme

Trees make an incredible difference a number of ways. These include to London’s streetscape; without funding our annual Tree Council them the city would be a completely membership fees, allowing our different place. quarterly meetings to take place A University of California study in the Town Hall and recently found that urban spaces which had awarding us project funding of been planted had a 90% chance of £550 from the Council’s Eco Fund. remaining free of graffiti, while spaces This was spent on collapsible of plain concrete had only around water containers, ID badges for 10% chance of not being vandalised. wardens and printing costs. Because of my love of trees I got involved with the Wandsworth Tree Eyes and ears Warden Network (‘WTWN’). This Patrick Langley, the Council’s has been established for over 20 arboriculture manager, is always Our membership of the Tree Council’s years and is an affiliated member generous with his time and advice. national scheme gives the wardens of the Tree Council’s national The relationship with the Council is the opportunity to attend various Tree Warden Scheme. There are enhanced by the fact that although Tree Council training sessions, free approximately 60 different warden there is no formal job description of of charge. These cover a variety of networks located throughout the UK. the role of tree warden, one of our topics ranging from tree identification key functions is to act as the eyes and diseases to full day sessions held Treescape and ears of the Council out on the at Kew Gardens. From time to time we The WTWN is a voluntary organisation streets. So although the wardens also receive invitations to various tree consisting of Wandsworth residents. have no special powers, they do celebration events and indeed some Our aim is to promote public report details of any damaged or of our wardens attended a luncheon awareness of the many benefits of diseased trees to the Council so that in the House of Lords in November trees in city environments and to help the Council can take appropriate and held to celebrate the national Tree improve and protect the borough’s timely action. Warden Scheme. treescape through the planting, care, The wardens have recently In general, the WTWN provides a nurture and promotion of trees. undertaken various projects including focal point for people to meet, discuss There are currently approximately watering street tree during the and develop any tree-related ideas 70 wardens on the register, with ages summer months, lobbying against and projects that they may have. It ranging from about 30 to 75 and the potential loss of mature trees at enables them to draw on each other’s with a wide range of backgrounds. Southside Shopping Centre due to wealth of knowledge and experience Most have no formal training or proposed development, and tree in relation to trees in Wandsworth. in-depth experience of tree matters planting projects, often in conjunction before becoming wardens. with various Tree Council initiatives All welcome While we are independent of (eg planting trees in commemoration Note for those concerned about Wandsworth Council, the Council of the Diamond Jubilee and ash die-back: Councillor Sarah is very supportive and helps us in fruit trees in local schools). McDermott and Patrick Langley have established that ash trees constitute Bramford about 5% of the borough’s tree stock community and that they are mainly in parks, garden’s Miranda commons or private land. So far there Simmons and have been no outbreaks in London Jenny Sheridan accept a Level but Mr Langley and his staff are 3 Developing keeping their eyes peeled. Garden award The wardens meet every three from the RHS and months, with the next meeting London in Bloom. scheduled for Thursday 13 December The garden is in a small park at the in Wandsworth Town Hall at 7pm. entrance to Old All are welcome – just go through York Road. the archway and head to the main reception area where you will be directed to the meeting room. For further information please contact me on [email protected]

14 Tree, inverted Battersea Arts Centre is a Good Neighbour bromide print. Nathan Jones Celine Gagnon outlines BAC’s activities with young people since the riots

As the riots were vulnerable girls from the unravelling around Winstanley Estate. Clapham Junction in One year on from the 2011, BAC was about riots, we ran First Things to stage Brave, a First, another special performance devised project which took as its by a company of 19 starting point the riots local young people and their aftermath. We using spoken word, have also increased dance and beatboxing our theatre offering for to express what it younger audiences; meant for them to in September we be brave. Following premiered Brand New the success of the Ancients by spoken- project, both with the word and hip hop performers and local artist Kate Tempest. audiences, and as our The show was a sell- response to last year’s out success, received unrest, we have been many 4 star reviews in investing more of our national publications resources and creative and included a young energies in our local poets project led by community. Kate for a small group Brave was one of of local young artists. the special projects for local young people that Local stories we deliver in the course This year we have of a year through developed and our Homegrown presented The Good programme. Neighbour, a show for local families which Imagination took place across the Homegrown brings Town Hall and spilled together professional out into the streets of artists and local young Battersea. The Good people – who are Neighbour was inspired often experiencing by the story of George top: The Good Neighbour’s disadvantage through poverty, cast on Debenhams roof Neighbour, a local worker who died disengagement with formal above: Brave, devised by local in a fire in 1909 at Arding & Hobbs education or unemployment – to young people department store (now Debenhams) devise theatre shows around ideas trying to save the lives of two young that are generated by the young women. The show also retold a people themselves. Special projects number of local stories, giving a voice are led by accomplished artists 300-strong audience highlighted to residents who had experienced the because we believe that great art that, though saddened by the unrest riots first hand. happens when artists work with around Clapham Junction, they The Good Neighbour has audiences and because we truly were uplifted up by the production. now become more than a show, value young people’s creativity and resulting in stronger relationships imagination. Girls’ project with the traders and punters Brave gave its young participants Since the riots, we have focused on up and down Lavender Hill. It is a platform to share their own reaching more young people at risk informing our plans for the future, experiences and life choices. By of offending or of social isolation, as we look to do more to engage chance rather than design, it acted filling some of the gap left by cuts to local young people, children and as a counterpoint to the violence of youth services in Wandsworth. We families. Watch this space… the riots, showing that young people have strengthened our links with the can have a positive impact on their Wandsworth Early Intervention Team Celine Gagnon is senior development community. Feedback from the and hosted a theatre project engaging manager at Battersea Arts Centre.

15 Could you be a Spirited Body? Modelling for artists is liberating, says Lucy Saunders

‘Wonderful! I felt very at ease.’ ‘Nerves disappeared instantly once I’d started.’ ‘Very glad I have done it. There is an enormous difference in the way I feel about my body between last Sunday’s workshop and today. Sunday I accepted my body. Today I like it with all its imperfections.’ These three people all went naked for art at the Spirited Bodies event Wandering round the impromptu models are comfortable. Warmth is on 20 October at Battersea Arts exhibition at the end of the day on obviously important and if necessary Centre, hosted by London Drawing. 20 October, I heard one model say we take our own heaters to the Organised by Esther Bunting and to another: ‘That’s me – and that’s space. Models are unpaid and the myself, Spirited Bodies invites you,’ as they looked at the art. It is artists pay a fee which depends everybody to come and pose for very liberating to see yourself how largely on the costs of the venue artists, challenge their taboos and others see you, and to realise that you and the organisations involved. At find out more about what we do and have little control over this. You can BAC the charge was £45 for the day, why we do it when we are posing for let go that judgement in your head sometimes it is less, sometimes more. artists. Since November 2010 we have telling you that you aren’t perfect, that When I tell people I work as an organised eight events and we are you must try harder, that you must artist’s model, the reaction is always now putting together Spirited Bodies be better. You can just be yourself, shock, the quick question ‘and is 9 in Mortlake on 15 December. whatever your age, size and level of that naked?’ followed rapidly by fitness, and just being yourself can ‘you’re so brave’ which, as we all Confidence benefit artists, tickle their imagination, know, is actually cover for saying Many people find that modelling challenge their skills ‘you are completely mad’. Even my naked for artists helps them deal We run workshops in the run up GP reacted all ‘nudge nudge wink with issues of body confidence and to an event, where would-be models wink say no more’ when I told him confidence more generally. There is can find out more, participate in what I was doing, and you would something about bringing together drawing and posing (which can be have thought that naked bodies the three elements: the models, the clothed, it’s a personal choice), were all in a day’s work to him. artists and the artworks that creates a and some people come only to the space where people can change their workshops, not to the events. Transformation minds about themselves. It doesn’t matter if you can’t When we are naked we are all People come for all sorts of draw – I defy anyone to draw quite Shakespeare’s ‘bare forked animals’; reasons, it could be weight gain or as badly as me – what matters is removing clothes removes signifiers loss, a crisis of age, menopause, understanding that the peace and of status, age and situation. Art takes scarring, arthritis, depression, concentration of the artists as they the earthy to the spiritual, shows us sports injuries, accidents, anything work means that they aren’t leering, to ourselves and each other, allowing where someone’s trust in their body they are looking. Posing for artists transformation. has been rocked. Some come gives people a rare chance to be Two more participants’ comments: because they need to perform in still, to be completely peaceful, to ‘Within minutes, everyone was really their work, whether that is giving open up a possibility for a quiet comfortable and enjoying themselves, presentations to fellow accountants meeting with the self, while at and frankly the nudity just didn’t or dancing in the Edinburgh Fringe. the same time helping others. seem to matter. The artists were all For the artists, it is a rare clothed, but were far too focused opportunity to work from multiple Tableaux on what they were doing to gawk or models at once, offering unique We work with the models to come up giggle.’ ‘If you want a real confidence- challenges to composition and with ideas for poses. They may be building challenge to push yourself technique. The models range in age separate or together, connected but beyond your comfort zone, forget from 19 to 73, the artists from 17 to without physical contact – think of two that triathlon, EST workshop, or fad incredibly ancient. The artists may people standing back to back with exercise class, check out Spirited have started life drawing last week their arms folded. It’s clear that they Bodies. You won’t regret it.’ or been doing life art for 50 years. are angry with each other. We want to www.spiritedbodies.com The artworks can be the simplest create evolving tableaux rather than Facebook: Spirited Bodies – has lots pencil drawing, vibrant chalks and static scenes. of images of work done at events pastels or, when we are with London On a practical level, we are very www.londondrawing.com Drawing, amazing collages. concerned that both artists and

16 Adding lustre to Wandsworth believed that the dead were able to communicate with the living, through Miranda Willis outlines the treasures of the De Morgan collection séances, which they both attended. Robust The De Morgan Centre displays copper red on a navy background. The couple were also of their time the work of two nineteenth century (1855-1919) in their strong views on women’s artists, the married couple William was among the first women to be suffrage. In 1889 Evelyn signed the and Evelyn De Morgan. William was trained at the Slade School of Art. ‘Declaration in Favour of Women’s part of the Arts and Crafts Movement, To round off her artistic education, Suffrage’. Her opinions on women specialising in the traditionally female she often visited her uncle, the are reflected in her paintings. They area of ceramics whilst Evelyn can be artist Roddam Spencer Stanhope in contrast with male Pre-Raphaelite regarded as a second generation pre- Florence. The influence of the Italian artists like Edward Burne-Jones Raphaelite artist, a field dominated by Renaissance can be seen in her whose women are ephemeral male painters. The Centre explores work (1880) which was inspired compared with Evelyn’s strong, robust the relationship between the work by Botticelli’s Primavera (1482) in females based on the models Jane of the two artists, placing William’s terms of colour palette, dress design Morris, wife of William Morris and her ceramics in cabinets alongside and foliage. Like her uncle, Evelyn sister’s nursemaid Jane Hales. Evelyn’s paintings which are often shared an interest in biblical, mythical Leave about two hours to visit the hung three high on the rich blue walls. and allegorical subject matter. De Morgan Centre. Buses 37, 337 However Evelyn’s moral messages and 170 stop outside the building Turquoise on the transitory nature of life were and parking nearby is easy, although (1839-1917) also based upon her passion for charges apply. The entrance fee to began his career working closely spiritualism, which William shared. the gallery is £4 and includes access with William Morris, taking over Like many Victorians participating to the temporary exhibition space, the tile production side of Morris’ in this craze, William and Evelyn which often displays contemporary business before opening his own Fish Punch Bowl, 1890 –1904, Arts and Crafts. The Centre is in the studio in Chelsea. The influence of William De Morgan same building as the Wandsworth Middle Eastern pottery can be seen in Decorated by Fred Passenger Museum and its family friendly café. William De Morgan’s work, especially , Evelyn De The Centre’s lease lasts until May in his use of bright turquoise and Morgan, Oil on Canvas, 1878 2015. A permanent home for the Persian patterns. This interest led to both © collection is currently being sought. him being commissioned to create Miranda Willis, former volunteer. tile decorations for P&O ferries to the De Morgan Centre Middle East. Three are on display 38 West Hill, London SW18 at the Centre, depicting imagined Opening hours: oriental cities and coastlines. 1–5pm Monday–Friday However, William was not afraid to 11am–5pm Saturdays. juxtapose Islamic elements with There will be a Battersea Society British motifs. This is clearly visible visit to the De Morgan Centre on 6 in his beautiful large pot depicting February, 2013 (see page 19). English wildlife. Stylised green leaves with turquoise stems wend their way up the piece whilst purple blackbirds of varying shapes nestle in between. William De Morgan also experimented with glazes, rediscovering the lost art of polychrome lustre. Initially he used lustre over one tone, red. Many of these pieces depict fantastical animals and creatures, such as dragons and griffins, which often have humorous aspects to them. In the later production of his series entitled Moonlight Suite, William’s skill was such that he was able to produce a lustre effect on several different colours within the same piece. Amongst the most successful are two large bowls depicting galleons at sea in tones of silver and

17 Bug-hunting, permaculture and plant sales for kids as well as using the centre to support the bowling and sports Susan Stuart describes joys to come on Wandsworth Common activities. The centre will also be available for hire to local schools, societies, The Nature Study Centre near the Naturescope will provide clubs and for children’s parties bowling green on Wandsworth year-round activities for all and other social events. Common has stood empty since ages and abilities during the The three partner organisations 2008. In February this year the week and at weekends. are all well known and established Council approved the proposals put In both term time and holidays, in Wandsworth. All Star Tennis has forward by Groundwork will run ecology and been providing opportunities for Naturescope, nature sessions including bug hunting tennis and bowls on Wandsworth an exciting and pond dipping; for adults there Common for over 12 years and offers partnership will be workshops on permaculture, a variety of activities for people of between organic gardening, grow your own all ages and abilities. Thrive has Thrive, food and local natural history. offered horticultural therapy services All Star Thrive will extend its therapeutic in Battersea Park for 25 years and Tennis and gardening and vocational training for reaches over 300 disabled people Groundwork disabled people to the Common, with each year while Groundwork’s London. We aim weekend plant sales, family volunteer wide range of environmental to bring the Wandsworth days and family fun open days. education opportunities have been Common Nature Study Centre back enjoyed by communities across to life as a dynamic and accessible Sports London for nearly 20 years and in resource for the local community. All Star will offer a range of health and Wandsworth for the past 4 years. Once a lease can be finalised, the well-being classes, including healthy Susan Stuart is manager of Thrive in building, which has been empty for living, yoga, pilates, fitness and Battersea Park. years, will be buzzing with activity. movement, coordination development

Book Review: The Development of Building Estates in Battersea 1780–1914, by Keith Bailey Why does Battersea look the way it does? Suzanne Perkins finds answers in a new study

We have all heard the vague stories since the medieval of how Battersea ‘was all market strip field system, gardens’ and tales of the notorious and the speculative marshes close to the river and the scramble as houses cottage industries. How on earth were deemed a London going out of Town – or – The March was this transformed into a densely- better crop than vegetables. of Bricks and Mortar, George Cruikshank, populated suburb, which became 1829 famous as ‘The Municipal Mecca’ Erratic within such a short time during He clearly tabulates the complex facts which aimed to increase the the nineteeth and early twentieth behind how the building work was electorate by selling freehold plots, centuries? financed, the large number of owners, mostly south of Clapham Junction, Keith Bailey’s paper for builders and speculators, the different when only freeholders could vote. Wandsworth Historical Society forms of tenure and the erratic and There are copious illustrations answers the questions I have always often protracted progress they made. showing maps of various stages of pondered. Why are Battersea’s Dreams of a profitable Belgravia thev area’s development, building streets so inconvenient to walk south of the river were scuppered designs, advertisements for land through? Why are most back gardens as the railways stormed through, sales and portraits and caricatures so tiny? Why do the houses, even in chopping up the land and spewing of many of the key players. one street form little clumps of one dirt and noise. Cruikshanks’ wonderful cartoon on design, then another? All the facts Politics and ethics were the cover says it all. It was a 100 years’ and figures are here, meticulously represented by the Artizans’, war as bricks marched relentlessly researched and laid out. Labourers’ & General Dwellings over the fields of Battersea. He explains the fragmented nature Company (which built the Available from the Wandsworth of land ownership in what was an Shaftesbury Estate in 5 years) and Historical Society, £6.00 outlying rural area, hardly changed The Conservative Land Society, email [email protected]

18 The Battersea Society Fund-raising event at the RCA

Chair Tony Tuck Councillor John Hallmark issues an invitation [email protected] Money raised on 22 February will go Secretary Harvey Heath towards the Christmas Day Lunch and [email protected] Tea for elderly people that the Rotary Club of Battersea Park organises Membership Sec Maureen Larkin each year – this year is the 49th time [email protected] the Club has said ‘Happy Christmas’ to elderly people in Battersea. Committee Chairs As well as having a superb lunch on 25 December, guests enjoy an afternoon’s entertainment, a visit Community Harvey Heath The Rotary Club of Battersea Park [email protected] from the Mayor of Wandsworth is organising a fundraising event at and a ‘goody bag’ which they the Royal College of Art (RCA) in take home with them. Planning David Lewis and Liz Walton Battersea. The event is on Friday 22 [email protected] Fresh from a busy night, Father February 2013 (7pm – 9pm) in the Christmas himself comes along new Dyson Building on Battersea to say ‘hello’. Around 400 people Open Spaces Bridge Road and, as well as drinks [email protected] attend the lunch each year and and canapés, the RCA will have an the fact that many people come exhibition on display for guests to back year after year speaks Events Wendy Deakins view. [email protected] volumes for what an enjoyable This is an excellent opportunity to day it is. All this is completely free view the building, thank the RCA for – guests do not pay a penny. General enquiries investing in Battersea and welcome [email protected] RCA students and staff to SW11. Tickets for the RCA reception are £10 The Dyson Building makes up the each and people can buy tickets by Website largest part of the RCA’s new campus. batterseasociety.org.uk emailing me: With an internal floor space of almost [email protected] 5,000 m2, it houses the printmaking Registered charity no.1103560 or by calling 07798 684698 and photography departments.

Forthcoming events Thursday 20 December Thursday 8 January 2013 Wednesday 6 February from 5.30 – 8pm Twelfth Night supper and quiz. 10.30am Informal festive gathering – a chance Galapagos Restaurant Battersea Visit to the De Morgan Centre, to meet old friends and perhaps make High Street. Time and price to be Wandsworth. some new ones. Woodman Pub, confirmed. £10 including talk and refreshments. Battersea High Street, SW11 3HX See map below: If possible, let Mike Roden Thursday 22 January know you’re coming. website@ 11am: visit to Handel House Museum. batterseasociety.org.uk £14 including recital&refreshments.

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19 London Overground

Watford Junction

Watford High Street Walthamstow Leyton Queen’s Road Midland Road Bushey

Blackhorse Road Victoria Carpenders Park Leytonstone High Road

South Tottenham Wanstead Park Hatch End

Harringay Green Lanes Growing success The Headstonechildren Lane love their garden, where there’s always something toWoodgrange do.’ Park Crouch Hill this summerHarrow & they grew peppers, Headteacher Mrs Colette MorrisBarking Wealdstone District Upper Holloway Hammersmith tomatoes, strawberries, potatoes and says few of the children have gardens& City Children triumph at RHS show Kenton Gospel Oak giant pumpkins. Hampstead Camdenat home. HighburyThe & schoolDalston garden was South Kenton Heath Road Islington Kingsland Homerton Stratford Year 6 pupils pose proudly with They pick, cook andFinchley Road eat & Frognal the created two years ago with help from North Wembley Kentish Caledonian Road Hackney Hackney Central Jubilee Town & Barnsbury Central Wick Jubilee West Hampstead 100m DLR the fruits of their school garden. West Victoria Canonbury produce and are saving seeds100m to plant local volunteers and she is pleasedTrains to Southend Trains to Wembley Central Luton Christchurch was one of just three Brondesbury Dalston Junction for next year’s crops.Brondesbury Park They prefer with the children’s enthusiasm Stonebridge Park Haggerston schools across the country picked to their home-grownKensal vegetables Rise to the and what they can learn from it. Hoxton Harlesden Willesden Kensal Queen’s Kilburn South have a stall at the Royal Horticultural Junction Green Park High Road Hampstead Euston ones they get from the supermarket. Shoreditch High Street Society’s Harvest Festival show. Bakerloo Northern They say, the garden is ‘so fun, Victoria Bakerloo District Whitechapel Hammersmith & City

Acton Central DLR Shadwell 100m

Central Shepherd’s 100m Bush Wapping

South Acton District line open weekends, Joined up public holidays and River Thames some Olympia events Kensington District (Olympia) Rotherhithe at the Junction! Gunnersbury District Canada Water Jubilee West Brompton District

Peckham Surrey Quays Rye Kew Gardens The London Overground orbit is Imperial Wharf Queens Road Clapham Peckham Junction Denmark Hill finally complete, says former MP Richmond Clapham New Cross High Street Martin Linton River Thames New Cross Gate Trains to Wandsworth Northern Gatwick Road Clapham North 100m Brockley

Key to symbols Honor Oak Park Interchange stations Crystal Palace Forest Hill Step-free access from street to train Stop press: map of the latest leg of theWest OvergroundNorwood Sydenham The opening of the London Step-free access from street to platform Croydon Junction

National Rail Overground line from Clapham Tramlink Anerley Penge Airport West Junction to Surrey Quays is the petitions and street stalls; leaflets and Correct at time of going to print 12.2012 culmination of a campaign in which posters; there was a London Orbital Battersea played an important Map created by Suzanne Perkins. part. Starting in 1998, we pressed There were many setbacks, but in the for a London Orbital route which end we prevailed, and the impetus would join all the parts of South always came from the East London and East London which had never Line Group in the East and Battersea benefited from the Underground, in the West. Now, finally, we have it. from Battersea to Hackney. Well over 100 meetings must have been held Campaign with London Underground, Network The next campaign is to persuade TfL Rail, the Strategic Rail Authority, to add a station between Clapham Generations of Londoners have bought Department of Transport ministers, Junction and Wandsworth Road – their Airfix kits and model railway the East London Line Group, and later a distance of 1.8 miles compared components here, but now Russ has closed. After 46 years running their shop of course TfL before the line finally with the usual distance of 0.6 miles on Battersea Rise, Mr and Mrs Russ have got the go-ahead in 2009. There were between underground stations. I hope finally retired. debates in the Commons; there were that doesn’t take us another 14 years!

Designed by Suzanne Perkins/[email protected]. Printed by [email protected]