Local News is our Aim 25 years 1993-2018 The

20p ISSN 1361-3952 where sold Archer October 2018 No. 294 A community newspaper for East Finchley run entirely by volunteers. Phoenix finds new future in Curzon chain By John Lawrence The independent Phoenix Cinema is on the point of becoming part of the national Curzon Cinemas chain. The charitable Phoenix Trust will retain ownership of the listed building but hand over the day-to-day opera- tions of the cinema, to be renamed the Curzon Phoenix East Finchley. Trust members say the deal, being surrendered and Curzon still to be finalised, is essential will ultimately be able to make for the long-term survival of the its own decisions about staff- 106-year-old picture house, run ing and programming. They on a not-for-profit basis since want the Trust to consider 1985 but now facing dwindling alternatives like community revenues. Annual admissions fundraising to keep the cinema fell from 100,000 to 75,000 in going as an independent, point- the last four years. ing out that the Phoenix raised New management: The Phoenix Cinema has been independent since 1985. Photo Mike Coles. A Save the Phoenix cam- more than £1 million for its paign began as soon as the news centenary restoration project. was announced. Campaigners Lauren Wright, from the Thieves steal say the decision has been made Save the Phoenix campaign, without consulting staff or the said: “Rather than building on from studio community and claim there are this, fundraising has been lim- A computer, monitor and better alternatives which would ited. Save The Phoenix is calling several cameras were preserve the cinema’s ethos. An on the board to pause, listen to stolen from a studio in online petition calling for the the community, and make sure Huntingdon Road, N2, Phoenix to stay independent they have exhausted all other when opportunistic thieves had gathered 3,000 signatures options before going down this spotted that keys had been as we went to press. extreme path.” left in a door. Why is the deal The campaign said the The items were taken from Curzon deal had been arranged being made? without consultation with any the art and music studio in The ten members of the staff or the local community Huntingdon Works during the Board of Trustees, all vol- for whom the Phoenix Cinema EVERYTHING ELECTRICAL Friday night of the August bank unteers, say general changes Trust was set up. holiday. in cinema-going habits and 38 High Road London N2 9PJ The Trust argues that it CCTV footage appears to increased local competition had to maintain confidential- 08002793463 - 02084447994 show two people sheltering from from the likes of the Everyman ity around the deal until it was the rain under the premises’ in Muswell Hill have hit ticket secure enough to make public arch and then entering after sales badly, leaving them with and states that the cinema will seeing the key in the door. They less money to invest in the future remain in local hands as the leave five minutes later with of the Phoenix. Trust will retain ownership of several items and then return at Trustee Alison Gold told The the building and continue to midnight to carry more away. Archer: “The cinema is at seri- oversee community and educa- The burglary was reported ous risk of insolvency and the tion activities for local people. when the owners turned up trust is working hard to avoid for work on the Tuesday that. We have considered other What impact will it have? morning. Police are currently options, including remaining Phoenix staff have been told Find your new home today... investigating. independent, but believe that a that their jobs will be transferred partnership with Curzon offers to the new operators and that Successful independent estate agent, established since 1992 greater security as well as they will be paid the London Residential and commercial, sales, lettings and management specialists In this issue bringing some new benefits to Living Wage for the first time. Our friendly and helpful staff provide a professional and genuine service 40 High Road, East Finchley Plans for Bobath site...... p3 the Phoenix staff and its com- Save the Phoenix campaigners Our office is situated 100 yards from East Finchley Station London N2 9PJ Fun Palace...... p3 munity.” argue that there is no guarantee www.primelocations.co.uk Police seek assault victims...p4 What are the concerns? redundancies won’t be made [email protected] once the transfer is complete. Estate Agents Valuations Sales Lettings Campaigners say the inde- 020 8883 9090 Archer Academy admission Overseas Properties Management Services changes...... p7 pendence of the Phoenix is Continued on page 2. • Visit us online at www.the-archer.co.uk or Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @TheArcherN2 • 2 OCTOBER 2018 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk The Archer USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS PO Box 3699, London N2 2DE Councils Help & Advice Drinkline 0800 917 8282 www.the-archer.co.uk Email: [email protected] Barnet Childline 0800 1111 Drugs Helpline 0800 776600 @TheArcherN2 www.facebook.com/TheArcherN2 Admin/Town Hall 020 8359 2000 Citizens Advice Barnet 0300 4568365 Health Info Service 0800 665544 Voicemail (messages only) 0800 612 0748 for editorial and general Council Tax 020 8359 2608 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 167 MIND 020 8343 5700 Recycling & refuse 020 8359 4600 1677 National Blood Centre 0845 7 711 7711 enquiries or 0800 612 4027 for Advertising enquiries only Primary Care Trust 020 8201 4700 Disability Info Service 020 8359 7637 Crime Published by Editorial Team Finance & Benefits Agency 020 8258 6500 EF Advice Service 0300 4568365 Emergency 999 East Finchley Newspapers Diana Cormack Advertising Employment Service 020 8258 3900 Lone Parent Centre 020 7021 4146 Police non-emergency 101 Copy Editor Daphne Chamberlain John Dearing Haringey Council 020 8489 0000 Missing Persons Helpline 0500 700700 CrimeStoppers 0800 555111 John Lawrence Sub Editors Distribution National Debt Line 0808 808 4000 Victim Support 0845 303 0900 Production Editor Ann Bronkhorst Toni Morgan Leisure NSPCC 0800 800500 Jeff Robson Jane & David Marsh Alison Roberts Alexandra Palace 020 8365 2121 Rape & Sexual Abuse helpline Hospitals Printed By Picture Editor Sharman & Co Ltd East Finchley Library 020 8359 3815 020 8683 3300 NHS 111 Mike Coles Gt North Leisure Park 0870 240 6020 Relate 020 8447 8101 Barnet General 020 8216 4000 Thank you to The Bald Faced Stag and New Local Cafe for providing us with a Muswell Hill Everyman 0871 9069060 RSPCA 0300 1234 999 Edgware General 020 8952 2381 meeting place. Phoenix Cinema 020 8444 6789 Samaritans 08457 909090 Finchley Memorial 020 8349 7500 The Archer team wishes to thank all the generous people who give up their Tourist Info Service 0870 128 8080 Refuge National Crisis Line Oak Lane Clinic 020 8346 9343 spare time, in all weather, to deliver the paper for us. 0870 599 5443 Royal Free 020 7794 0500 If you have a story for us, please contact us at the above address. Transport Health Advice Whittington 020 7272 3070 Comments to The Archer may be published unless clearly marked ‘Not for BR Enquiries 0845 7484950 AIDSline 020 8363 2141 OAP’s Advice publication’ within the text. City Airport 020 7646 0088 Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 7697555 Age UK Barnet 020 8203 5040 November: 12 October; London Transport 020 7222 1234 Barnet MENCAP 020 8203 6688 Independent Age 0800 319 6789 Copy deadlines – National Express 0871 781 8181 Cancer Support 020 8202 2211 Age UK (general advice line) December: 16 November; January: 14 December Heathrow Airport 0870 000 0123 Carers’ Line 0808 808 7777 0800 169 2081 Phoenix finds Phoenix and Curzon: Planning Applications Barnet Council 45 Durham Road, N2 new future 8 Abbots Gardens, N2 Single-storey rear extension. From page 1 how they compare Non-material amendment to plan- Depth 3m, eaves height 3.2m, Curzon Cinemas told us Curzon’s other London cinemas are in Aldgate, ning permission dated 19/03/18 maximum height 3.2m. the film programme at the new Bloomsbury, Mayfair, Richmond, Soho, Victoria and for roof extension, side/rear exten- 23 Elmhurst Avenue, N2 Phoenix will be in line with Wimbledon; it also runs cinemas in Canterbury, sion with terrace, access steps Single-storey rear extension. what it already screens. Director Colchester, Knutsford, Oxford, Ripon and Sheffield. and hard standing. Amendments Depth 5m, eaves height 3m, of Cinema Development Rob Richmond is the only London venue to have a single screen include first-floor rear projecting maximum height 3m. Kenny said: “We want to retain like the Phoenix so The Archer compared programmes and box, one new rear window, one Wellington Place, Great North the identity the Phoenix has new side window, and one new Road, N2 prices between the two: skylight. Addition of two new floors at third built up and show great films. In the cinema week begin- Ticket prices for the Satur- We don’t run homogenised 96 Brim Hill, N2 and fourth floor level to four blocks ning Friday 28 September, day evening showing of Cold Single-storey rear extension to of existing two-bedroom flats, to cinemas. We will see what the the Curzon Richmond was War at the Curzon were £16.50 East Finchley audience wants existing converted garage, with provide an additional seven two- showing Cold War (15), The for adults and £14 for seniors new French door. bed duplex apartments. Associ- and programme accordingly. Little Stranger (12A) and and students. Prices for the Sat- Maybe we’ll take a few chances 49 Chandos Road, N2 ated parking, refuse and recycling Faces Places (12A) every urday evening showing of The Lawful Development Certificate for store and cycle store. and see how people respond, day. The Phoenix was show- Wife at the Phoenix were £12. learning as we go.” single-storey rear extension with Viceroy Parade, 71 High Road, N2 ing The Wife (15), including Tickets for the Monday three roof lights to side, and one Installation of 1 x 0.2m microwave The Trust says the terms of one screening for parents and afternoon showing of Cold its agreement means Curzon roof light to adj. side, following dish link on the existing structure. babies, and a relaxed screening War at the Curzon were £12 removal of existing single-storey 240 High Road, N2 will continue to run a full range for viewers with sensory con- or £11 while the Monday of festivals, Q&As and other rear extension. Installation of storage unit to rear of ditions or learning difficulties, afternoon showing of The Wife 2 Deansway, N2 shop (retrospective application). special events. The Saturday The Little Stranger (12A) and at the Phoenix cost £7. Kids morning Kids Club will stay, Roof extension, including one rear 32 Howard Walk, N2 Faces Places (12A), along with Club prices at both venues are dormer window, one side dormer Alterations to fenestration, includ- as will mother and baby screen- a Saturday Kids Club screen- pegged at £3. ings. The existing Phoenix window, and two front roof lights. ing replacement of existing double ing of The Lego Movie (U), a 8 Deansway, N2 glazing with steel double glazed Friends membership scheme is one-off Sunday screening of expected to carry on under the New raised terrace area with glass windows to front and side. The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie Phoenix and balustrade and new access steps. 21 Ingram Road, N2 Curzon name. (12A) for the East Finchley Single-storey side/rear infill The Save the Phoenix petition Arts Festival and a Tuesday extension. can be found at: www.change. toddler session showing Tee Curzon: first Boy trapped Unit 1, Ferris Lodge, 62 org/p/save-the-phoenix-cinema and Mo (U). Lankaster Gardens, N2 reactions in locked car Two new window openings to OSTEOPATHY | ACUPUNCTURE Here are some of the com- A mother was horrified existing north west side. ments on social media when her two-year-old son 338 Long Lane, N2 reacting to the news of locked himself inside her Alterations to front driveway to Curzon Cinemas running BMW car with her key fob, provide off street parking. The Robin Kiashek the Phoenix: which fell onto the floor Flat A, 386 Long Lane, N2 - “Let’s hope they improve the out of his reach. The car Use of front hard standing to Clinics seating, toilets and everything provide new vehicular access else.” was parked on Northway and off-street parking. Keeping North London OSTEOPATHY - “Terrible news. We love the in Hampstead Garden Haringey Council pain free for 25 years independence of the Phoenix.” Suburb at about 5pm on 17 Aylmer Parade, N2 - “What a shame. Tho if Friday 7 September. Change of use of ground-floor Visit www.robinkiashek.co.uk it’s in trouble and that’s the Finchley Station Fire Bri- property from A1 (Retail) to D1 to see how we could help only way to keep it open… gade were on the spot quickly (Veterinary Surgery), including be even worse if it closed.” and smashed the car’s rear ancillary A1 (for sale of pet goods Most major health insurance accepted - “Mixed feelings about this. window. A fireman climbed in and accessories) and alterations Please note that we also have ACUPUNCTURE and used the fob to open the a Central London clinic Curzon have great taste in to existing shop front. Ample free parking films but can really see them doors and rescue the boy. cranking up the ticket price.” The Twyford Practice - “Love the idea of an independ- 52 Twyford Avenue Foot Problems? Chiropody Podiatry Fortis Green ent cinema, but it just won’t London N2 9NL be able to survive for much Judith Costa BSc tel: 020 8815 0979 LOW LEVEL LASER THERAPY longer… Let it stay open and I At Utopia Clinic 1a Leicester Mews N2 9EJ hope Curzon will recognise the Tel: 020 8444 4226 (M) 07802 88 79 19 Robin Kiashek | BSc (Hons) Ost Med., N.D., LicAC history in some way.” - “Noooooooooooooo.” Online booking at utopiatherapyhub.com 3 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk OCTOBER 2018 Nursery plans for Bobath Centre site By Daphne Chamberlain The Bobath Centre will leave its site at East End Road on 25 November. The new owners, 250 East End Road LLP, run by 13 investment companies and represented by international estate agency Savills, have submitted a planning application to Barnet Council which involves amendments to the Grade 2 listed frontage of the existing building, demolishing unlisted extensions and replacing with new ones, and creating an outside play area. The application states that for up to 170 children, with 26 the new extensions will keep to staff. Storage, staff space and the same roof line as the Grade playground size appear to many to 2 frontage. Barnet Planning and be insufficient, and it is not clear Conservation Officers visited that a new nursery on these lines is the site in June, and original needed in this area anyway. Exist- proposals for the western part ing nurseries Monkey Puzzle and have been amended. Scribbles have both stated that The new owners state in their they are not involved. application that they have come An extensive international to an arrangement with a chil- nursery chain, actively looking Sword play: Matt Lewin fashions a foam blade in his garden workshop. dren’s nursery. This means they for new sites, has requirements don’t have to apply for change corresponding closely to the of use, as the Bobath Centre space in the planning applica- was used to assist children with tion, but neither they nor Savills Where superheroes buy their cerebral palsy. have answered enquiries from Questions and concerns The Archer. Neighbours also question supplies However, the proposals do By John Lawrence not cover the entire site. A large the viability of the scheme. area of land at the back will The plans provide only four car A whole fantasy world is coming be separated by a temporary spaces and one disability space, to life in a garden shed thanks to boundary, “to ensure safety but 12 cycle areas. the creative talents of props and and security to nursery users”. Dropping off times are esti- costume maker Matt Lewin. Give Many people are questioning mated as three minutes, which him a little time and he can conjure the future of this unused land, seems unrealistically short, and up anything from a Viking chieftain and indeed the proposed nursery there are concerns about traffic helmet to a Wonder Woman shield. provision. congestion around the entrance You may have seen Matt, 26, and The plans indicate a nursery and exit to the site. his Dragon Workshop stall at the East Finchley Festival back in June when he had much of his Star Wars, Marvel Fun Palace for all and Lord of the Rings-inspired armoury A reminder from last month’s edition that East on show. Finchley Library will be hosting a free festival of arts, music, He uses cardboard and foil to build sports, science and dance on Saturday 6 October. the templates for his creations and then The Grange Big Local Fun Observatory and much more. makes the final products by cutting and Battle gear: Helmets and a shield made by Matt. Palace will feature music MC’ed Also on display will be infor- moulding floor-mat foam, before giving by Benteki, of Reprezent radio, mation from the archives of them a realistic metallic or paint finish, come from America but I’m hoping to build up my busi- with football run by the Monday East Finchley Library, and all in a workshop shed in his parents’ ness in this country too. The Scots Guards Association Club, cheerleading from Sara- organisers are hoping to col- garden in Bedford Road, N2. Band have asked me to make 13 bearskin helmets for cens, free manicures from Vales lect stories about it from From hobby to business them, using foam and fake fur. The real thing are too Nails, dance from SOTO people who have used it over “I always loved making Airfix models hard to come by, apparently.” CIC, art with East Finchley the years. For more informa- and all sorts of things out of cardboard Find out more about Matt’s creations on Facebook Open Artists, the chance to tion check out the Fun Palace when I was young,” said Matt. “I started and Instagram @thedragonworkshop and buy them by look for aliens with Mill Hill website www.funpalaces.co.uk making items from films like Lord of the searching ‘thedragonworkshop’ at www.etsy.com/uk. Rings because I wanted them for myself. Now I’m hoping I - Beginners - can make a business out of my hobby.” Matt’s customers are often Tai Chi & Qigong Cree Godfrey & Wood provide a full range of services including Residential and NEW COURSES in East Finchley Commercial Conveyancing, Landlord and Tenant advice, comic and film fans who go ** ** Employment (Compromise Agreements), Family, Wills Probate along to massive conventions Wednesdays am & pm (Trial session: £5) and Elderly Client advice and Lasting Powers of Attorney. James Drewe is a qualified teacher and has been practising tai chi for 40 years. dressed as their favourite He is the author of 3 books on tai chi & is a member of the BCCMA. Why choose CGW Solicitors? characters. He’s also had orders Other classes : www.taiji.co.uk Our team are: for shop window props and even email: [email protected] phone: 020-8883 3308 COMMITTED to excellent customer service; a request for a bespoke shield Offer GOOD value and reasonable fees; from his own prop-making hero Here to WORK for you and give you honest, straightforward and effective advice in a timely efficient manner. Adam Savage, who has 3.9 Cree Godfrey & Wood 28 High Road East Finchley London N2 9PJ million followers on YouTube. Nicky Sharp T: 0208 883 9414 F: 0208 444 5414 Matt said: “A lot of orders W: www.creegodfreyandwood.co.uk Email: [email protected] Osteopathy Clinic Greene Driving School East Finchley N2 Cranial and Structural Osteopathy From £20.00 per hour and Acupuncture for 2 hr lesson All Major Insurers Accepted Safe driving for life Small manual Low Co2 Car For consultations and appointments: Eco & Low Maintenance Tuition Pass Plus 4 cheaper Insurance. Telephone: 020 8815 9433 260 East End Road www.nickysharposteopathy.co.uk Call John M.I.M.I 0773 851 4406 greenedriving.co.uk London N2 8AU e-mail: [email protected] 4 OCTOBER 2018 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk

Jan Lovell, of the East Finchley Safer Neighbourhood Team, updates us on the latest crime news. Jan and the team can be contacted by email at: [email protected], or by phone on 020 7161 9014. Follow the team on Twitter @MPSEastFinchley. Cashpoint crime We are currently experiencing distraction thieves at the cashpoints on the High Road, N2. There are two males operating, both light skinned, mixed race. One of them stays in a silver Honda while the male who dis- tracts cashpoint users is 6ft 2ins, slim build, often wearing dark smart casual dress and a baseball cap. Spacious: The new homes at Wilmot Close. Photo Mike Coles He will employ different methods, always targeting the very elderly and frail, perhaps distracting them by speaking to them and putting a newspaper in front of their face and taking the cash as it is dispensed by the machine. Holiday homes for life Or he tells them their car is wrongly parked and it will be By Daphne Chamberlain cheaper to pay a fine now, leading them to a cashpoint where When The Finchley Charities announced their new development adjoining Wilmot either the card and PIN number is swallowed by a device on the Close and Thackrah Close, N2, they described it as tranquil, spacious, light and machine or by sleight of hand the card is taken and the victim joyful. Joyful is an unusual description of housing. So did The Archer find joy when tells them the PIN number. The Finchley Charities Chief Executive Susan Faridi showed us round? This male is very skilled and versatile, moving from one area Listen to one of the new ten- that the aim is to encourage a accommodation, but are able to another and back. If you see someone operating in this way, ants. Mr Patel has moved into community where residents can to live independently (if neces- please call 999. one of two adaptable properties join in social activities, enjoy sary with the support of a care Please be aware of these scams, and stay on alert when you designed for wheelchair users. a neighbourly chat, or relax in package). Applicants should get cash from an internal or external machine at a bank or at the In his previous home he was comfortable homes. have limited financial means, Post Office. Easiest and safest is to use your card to get cash back housebound. Now he told us: The inside of Mr Patel’s and have lived in the Borough when doing grocery shopping or at the pharmacy. “I’m on holiday here! It was new home is impressive too. of Barnet for at least five years raining this morning, but I was Spacious and light, it has been during their lives. out in my chair, zooming up carefully planned. The kitchen Already all the accommoda- Police seek victims of the road!” features adjustable surfaces. tion has been taken, and there All paths are designed Worktops, sink and hob can be is a waiting list. Applicants for wheelchair use, winding lowered and raised with the turn are either referred, or can refer late night assaults round attractive landscaping, of a key, making them accessible themselves. By Janet Maitland including a ‘wild’ garden. Tree to him in his wheelchair as well The development is known Police believe that a series of sexual assaults on women in roots are smoothed over with as to his wife, who needs them officially as 22-25 Thackrah East Finchley and Fortis Green between May and August permeable material, and there at standard height. Close, though there are 16 are linked and are asking women to come forward with are seating areas and planters Facts and figures homes in total. information. all around. Higher-than-usual The Finchley Charities For further information, A man has been charged and August this year,” said DC walls block noise from the set out to provide high-qual- contact The Finchley Charities with sexual assault (by touch- Jacki McKenzie-Bell. “Some nearbyEast North Circular.Finchley Clinicity, easy-maintenance, - Advert rented at 41A Wilmot Close, N2 8HP, ing) following an incident on other women have come for- Careful design homes for people over 55 tel: 020 8346 9464, or email the High Road, N2, on Friday ward and I would urge anyone Susan Faridi emphasised years old who need sheltered info.thefinchleycharities.org. 24 August when a woman who has not yet reported any ARTWORK APPROVAL - 2 COL w100mm x h80mm was followed and grabbed incidents to please speak to the from behind near the junction police. I also want to hear from with Creighton Avenue. Police anyone who witnessed incidents believe that other women have in which a man appeared to been assaulted in a similar way assault a woman by grabbing and would like to hear from her in this way.” them. Please call Barnet CID on “It’s important that we 020 8733 4125 if you have any receive all available informa- information, or call Crimestop- tion about what I believe was a pers on 0800 555 111 if you want series of offences between May to remain anonymous. Summer festival 2019 starts here After the success of this year’s East Finchley Fes- Business services: Personal services: Wendy Longworth & Bookkeeping & Accounting Personal tax planning tival in Cherry Tree Wood Associates physiotherapy Business planning Self assessment back in June, pictured practice offers a variety Business start-up Specialist sectors: Company Secretarial above, everyone in the com- of treatments at the Corporate tax planning Building profits munity is invited to an open clinic, or off-site, in eCommerce & Payment Solutions Charities ■ Back Pain patients homes, Payroll Owner directors meeting to help start plan- Service Charge Accounting Retail ning next year’s festival. ■ Neck Pain nursing homes, VAT Sole traders private hospitals Organisers are urging people ■ Whiplash Injury Why choose us? to come along and have their ■ Sciatica and other By providing high quality of service and not charge over the top fees, we ■ Sports Injury organisations. retain the business and loyalty of our customers, as well as win many new say. What did you like? Do you ones through word of mouth. We also work with tax specialists, investor have any ideas for the festival? ■ Frozen Shoulder advisors and auditors to provide clients additional services where there is a Would you like to get involved? ■ Arthritis need. The open forum takes place ■ Call us for a FREE review of your requirements and to discuss best way Tennis Elbow forward, with no obligation. at Martin Primary School, Plane ■ Sprain or Strain Tel: 0203 151 0750 or email: [email protected] . Tree Walk, N2, on Monday 15 ■ Rehabilitation www.eastfinchleyclinic.co.uk Visit our newly improved website with useful and topical information: October at 7.30pm. Contact ■ Neurological www.AlmarBSL.co.uk eastfinchleyfestival@gmail. 020 8883 5888 Almar Business Solutions Limited is a registered company in England and Wales (registered ■ Stroke 2-3 Bedford Mews Bedford Road London N2 9DF number 04541322), holder of ACCA Practising Certificate with Association of Chartered com. Everyone is welcome. Certified Accountants and has Professional Indemnity Cover for its business activities.

EFC ARCHER ADVERT ARTWORK P11110 DATE 14/10/11 [EFC NEWAD BLACK AW/ AY] 5 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk OCTOBER 2018 Logo to spearhead plastics campaign By Ruth Anders, No2Plastics co-organiser Hot off the press, we are delighted to share our No2Plastics campaign image with readers of The Archer. Designed by Vanessa Broomfield, this image will form the basis for all the campaign’s collateral. On behalf of No2Plastics, cups and straws from shops, Joanne Westgate updated the cafés and restaurants in East members of N2United at their Finchley. meeting in mid-September and When asked about his shop’s her passionate presentation attitude to the cause, Chris was greeted with enthusiastic Athanasiou from Tony’s Conti- applause. A straw poll resulted nental said: “We’d be delighted in unanimous endorsement of to display a sign saying we the chosen campaign image encourage our customers to use from a number of designs their own bags. But this is only suggested. going to work if every shop on We have already seen some the High Road pulls together terrific support from enthusi- and we all join up.” astic volunteers who want to Tony’s is also going to make Sense of humour: Ethel Mattison pictured in 2015. Photo Mike Coles. Ethel Mattison, 1912 -2018 By Daphne Chamberlain The Archer team was sad to hear of the passing of Ethel Mattison, at the age of 106. I interviewed her three years ago, and she was a remarkable woman. Family and friends describe her as open-minded, down-to-earth, a mine of information, and someone who laughed a lot. Apparently she loved satire and the absurd, and had a store of risqué limericks. In his eulogy, her son Char- living in Huntingdon Road, member. Always involved in lie remembered her saying N2, her home for 53 years, the Co-operative Movement that what kept her going was after living and working in and the Women’s Movement, curiosity about what would Hampstead as a nurse. Also at she joined the Townswomen’s happen next. the age of 100, she gave a talk Guild at 16. Her friend Caroline Broome, without notes to a large group She loved poetry, the clas- also speaking at her funeral, of medical students about age sics and botany, and Charlie said that her motto was “Adapt and infirmity, and then invited remembers her strong belief or Die”. Caroline’s first meet- their questions on her experi- in the power of science and ing with her was when Ethel ence as a pre-NHS nurse. technology to do good. employed her as a gardener. The NHS was particularly For the last three years, work with us on the campaign. smaller cardboard boxes avail- Then 100 years old, Ethel important to her as a lifelong Ethel lived in Spring Lane Ann Inglis, who wrote the able near the checkout so that realised she could no longer socialist. A Communist in the Care Home in Muswell Hill, original letter to The Archer in customers and their children climb the ladder to prune her 1930s, she later joined the where she got herself up, made May, Joanne Westgate and I are can help the environment with honeysuckle! Labour Party, of which she her own bed, and walked to currently heading the move- some much needed recycling. At that time, she was still eventually became the oldest the nearby shops with her son ment and developing roles for Anything is better than plastic for coffee. He paid tribute to volunteers. We’ve been taking bags! Other retailers too are the staff there for their care preliminary soundings from eager to lend their support. and love. one or two shop-keepers on the COMPUTER SAVIOUR Would you like to assist Friendly Visiting Specialist Ethel came from a large High Road to gauge support, in this initiative? Everyone For All Your Computer Needs family, including an identical before an all-out drive to ask in East Finchley needs to get twin sister who died at the age for their commitment to reduce behind No2Plastics. Email Maintenance, Repairs, Networking, Virus Removal And More. of five. single-use plastics. [email protected] to Call Neill Hoskins: 079 600 89528 [email protected] She is survived by Charlie, Pulling together join the campaign, or join daughter Trish, grandchildren The campaign’s initial www.facebook.com/groups/ and great-grandchildren. aim is to banish plastic bags, No2Plastics Join Grange Big Local The Grange Big Local team will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Saturday 27 October and everyone is welcome to go along and hear about their activities and achievements so far this year along with their plans for 2019. The team is in charge of regenerating the area of East Finchley bordered by the High Road, Church Lane, East End Road and the North Circular, including the Grange, Font Hills and Thomas More estates, using £1 million in DO YOU HAVE AN ILLNESS WHICH CAUSES lottery grant money. PHYSICAL STRESS, DISCOMFORT OR PAIN? Local people are invited to your say and find out about other Do the effects of your illness interfere with your life? join the project’s partnership ways of volunteering.” board. They will be trained and There will be children’s Did you know that you can harness the power of given the chance to develop activities and a free lunch and your mind to reduce the impact of your symptoms? skills to help them have a direct it all takes place on Saturday 27 LEARNING SELF-HYPNOSIS IN JUST A FEW SESSIONS COULD HELP TO influence on the future of the October from 11am to 2.30pm at EASE YOUR SYMPTOMS AND SUPPORT YOUR BODY THROUGH ILLNESS A Local Handyman Grange Big Local area. St Mary’s Parish Centre, High *if you are receiving medical care, you should inform your available for general household The project’s Jon Woolfson Road, N2 8HG. For further Doctor you are learning self-hypnosis & garden maintenance. said: “Even if you do not want information text ‘Grange’ to Free, no-obligation, introductory chat No Job Too Small to join the board, do come along 66777, email info@grange- Call or email me to find out more: Free Estimates to the meeting to find out more biglocal.org or call 020 8364 [email protected] 020 8444 5498 07703 404 839 Call John on: 0789 010 3831 www.kathrynscorza.co.uk about what we are doing, have 8400 ext. 241. or: 0208 883 5325 6 OCTOBER 2018 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk Distress at plans to double the height of maisonettes By Daphne Chamberlain Wellington Place consists of 16 maisonettes in four two-storey blocks, situated on the Great North Road, N2, close to the junction with The Bishops Avenue. In August, resi- dents and neighbours were distressed to hear of an application to build two extra storeys on top of each block. They say they had no prior consultation from the freeholder, Safeland plc, who have submitted the application to Barnet Council. In addition, several people are saying they didn’t receive the customary letter from Barnet inviting their comments. All features of scheme raise concerns The proposal would add seven two-bedroom duplexes, a roof terrace, dedicated off- street parking and cycle and bin stores. All these proposals Doubling in size: The homes in Wellington Place. Photo Mike Coles. are being questioned. The residents are concerned say they have been refused that redevelopment might about security and safety when visitors’ parking permits, and take years, and would make it their roofs are removed to build the new development would difficult to sell their properties. the extra storeys, worried about make the parking situation even Council and architect whether the foundations can worse. Some proposed bays Let’s talk about death: Facilitator Stephen Weaver leads a meeting would block access to existing respond support them, and threatened Barnet Council told The at the Old White Lion pub. Photo Mike Coles. by external metal stairs giving garages, with no turning space into driveways. Archer that they sent out 66 access to the new maisonettes, letters and that all comments too close to their bathroom New bin storage would remove disabled access to one would be considered before A lively afternoon at windows. making a decision. They are The added height of the of the existing maisonettes, block gas and electricity meters, also passing on information buildings is concerning to Haringey Council, because neighbours, including allotment and mean a difficult uphill walk the Death Café for the elderly. its boundary is so close. The By Diana Cormack holders at the back. architect of the scheme told “We shroud death in silence,” said Grayson Perry in his All the buildings would be One resident described Wellington Place as “an us that he held a presentation recent Channel 4 programme Rites of Passage. However covered in cladding, though in the Old White Lion in late those attending a meeting of Death Café could challenge some properties were bought established community with a village feel”. Now they July, but apparently not eve- that statement. because of their attractive brick ryone was aware of this, and exteriors. feel threatened by this major The Old White Lion was Australia. They have happened disruption. Another remarked Safeland had not carried out a the venue for the meeting in a range of places including Residents and neighbours prior consultation. run by East Finchley resident people’s houses, funky cafes, Stephen Weaver, who organises cemeteries, a yurt and the Royal north London sessions where Festival Hall. Corner shop has licence revoked “people, often strangers, gather It is well worth looking into By David Melsome to eat cake, drink tea and discuss and the stimulating meeting An East Finchley convenience store has had its licence to sell alcohol revoked for death”. we attended can lead you to repeatedly selling alcohol and tobacco to under-age customers. Unfortunately there was thinking that death and its Barnet Council’s licensing that the shop had been the subject to purchase either alcohol or no tea and cake this time, but ramifications does not need be sub-committee heard evidence of three separate undercover cigarettes from the shop without the small group of interested a wholly grim experience. against Crazy Corner Shop, on shopping operations in response being asked to provide any form and interesting participants For details of future meet- the corner of the High Road and to concerns raised by members of identification. provided plenty of food for ings visit www.meetup.com/ Baronsmere Road, N2, from of the public and each time it Persistent problem thought. Nor was there a mood North-London-Death-Cafe and police and trading standards had failed. Sergeant Jane Tuffin, from of doom and gloom, for much for general information visit officers in August. During the operations, police the Barnet Police licensing laughter was heard during the deathcafe.com. Committee members heard cadets aged under 18 were able team, said: “Crazy Corner has two-hour afternoon discussion been coming to the attention of along with a lot of intriguing police and the community for suggestions and alternative a number of years for the sale ideas. of alcohol to minors. Making the most of life “We have made every effort Death is our last task in Care can be to support, educate and to bring life and a Death Café offers about change. However, as this an opportunity to explore and different problem persisted we had no discuss issues, attitudes to and alternative but to review their expectations of the process of Care and kindness are at the heart of all we do as we strive to licence. The licensee repeatedly dying and death. The group has support older people to live their lives to the full through our specialist failed to meet the licensing no agenda, objectives or themes residential, dementia and day care services. objectives to protect children. and is not for grief support or I would like to thank the counselling. The objective is • Apthorp Care Centre: New Southgate, N11 1EQ community for engaging with “to increase awareness of death • Dell Field Court: Finchley, N3 2DY us and bringing their concerns with a view to helping people to our attention so that we could make the most of their (finite) • Meadowside: North Finchley, N12 7DY act upon them.” lives”. Councillor John Mar- It began in Hackney in To find out what makes us different, call us on: shall, Chairman of the Barnet 2011 when Jon Underwood 020 8242 9443 / 07721 128 885 Council Licensing Commit- and his mother developed the or email: [email protected] tee, said: “I hope this also ideas of Swiss sociologist sends a strong message to other Bernard Crettaz and has since www.fremantletrust.org businesses of the importance spread to 56 countries in of taking very seriously their Europe, North America and A registered charity and not for profit organisation. (Registration No. 1014986). licensing responsibilities.” 7 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk OCTOBER 2018 Academy makes changes to its admissions rules Early in 2016 consternation about the rules for admission to The Archer Academy made headlines in this newspaper and filled the ‘Letters to the Editor’ pages. There were strong objections to the decision to name four ‘feeder’ primary schools, chosen because they were in the academy’s priority postcodes and within 1.5 miles of the school. Brookland Junior and Garden The adjudication directed Suburb Junior in NW11, along the academy to make changes with Manorside Primary and for 2019. The school states: Tudor Primary in N3 fitted with “We are therefore complying the academy Trust’s founding with the adjudicator’s determi- commitment to serve families nation by removing the feeder from those areas, as well as N2. schools mechanism from our The secondary school had oversubscription criteria, and been heavily oversubscribed replacing it with a quota-based in its first three years and, after allocation of places to each of public consultation and weeks the three priority postcodes.” of debate, this was regarded as Future arrangements Page turner: Almar Haflidason with Emilia, left, and Lilja, engrossed in their reading at Laufás in Iceland. the fairest way to give all three From 2019, once siblings of postcodes fair access. At the existing pupils and a number of time, East Finchley parents were other priority groups have been Love (of The Archer) in a cold climate upset that the choice of feeder offered places, 45% of places Hot on the heels of Paulina and Edwin Spencer-Lugtenberg taking The Archer to the schools seemed to overlook will be offered to children whose Arctic in last month’s edition, Almar Haflidason has sent us a photo of himself and N2 primaries Holy Trinity and home address is within N2, 35% daughters Emilia and Lilja reading their copy 60 miles from the Arctic Circle in the Martin Primary. to children whose home address north of Iceland. Adjudicator decides is within N3 and 20% of places Almar and his family were up north, well away from a coffee shop and they can go Following complaints by to children whose home address escaping the ferocious heat of the hordes down south in the out and play outside well out three objectors in May this year, is within NW11. Any places East Finchley’s summer by country and is a lovely escape. of my sight. Those two weeks the Office of the Schools Adju- that remain after that will be visiting Laufás, outstanding I can let the kids run free, sit in keep us all sane.” dicator issued a detailed judg- allocated to applicants in the examples of traditional turf ment in August. It stated that the N2 postcode. farmhouses from the 1840s, aim to serve all three postcodes Places will be offered to near Akureyri. East Finchley Medical Practice was lawful but the use of feeder those children who live closest He told us: “I love Iceland schools had in fact proved ineffec- to the school, based on a straight but then my parents are from GP Receptionist Vacancy tive in promoting the admission line from the front gate of the there, although I was born in Hours: 15-25 hrs/week Please Note: Morning shifts start of children from N3 and NW11, Lower School Stanley Road London and raised in Scot- at 8:30 or 7am. Afternoon shifts finish at 6pm. and produced unfair results. Final campus to their front door. land. I’m settled in London Salary: £8-£8.50/hour Dependent on experience admissions in 2018, for example, Fuller details on the admissions now but the summer heat is Applicants should demonstrate that they have the skills and experience were 68% from N2, 16% from N3 criteria are available at www. not for me. required for the role including; good communication skills, good and 16% from NW11. thearcheracademy.org.uk. “Akureyri is a little town computer skills, experience of working in a team, ability to deal with difficult situations and awareness of customer care. Experience of using EMIS Web clinical system is desirable. To apply, please send your CV and covering letter to: Girls start Y7 at Katherine Herzmark, Practice Manager East Finchley Medical Practice 39 Baronsmere Road, London, N2 9QD Or email to: [email protected] Christ’s College Telephone enquiries: 020 8883 1458 for first time By David Melsome After 160 years of educating boys, Christ’s Col- lege Finchley welcomed girls into year 7 for the first time in September as part of its largest ever cohort of new students. The new intake of Olusanya said: “The girls 11 and 12-year-olds will and boys have settled in move up year by year straightaway which is until the school in East testament to our detailed End Road, N2, is fully transition and induction co-educational. Until now, programme. We look for- girls have only been admit- ward to growing into a ted to the sixth form. school where boys and Many parents facing a girls work, study and col- shortage of local places, laborate to develop their particularly for girls, talents and interests and have welcomed the new achieve excellence as they Christ’s College admis- transition into adulthood.” sions policy. Staff say the Christ’s College Finch- term has started positively ley is now accepting appli- with talented and enthusi- cations for its September astic year 7 students look- 2019 cohort. More infor- ing smart in their new and mation can be found on its distinctive uniform. website www.christscol- Headteacher Samson legefinchley.org.uk. Back to school: Isobella Scott-Goulding, left, and Deborah Ugochukwu on the way to their first day at Christ’s College Finchley as part of the new intake of year 7 girls. Photo Karen Pierce-Goulding. 8 OCTOBER 2018 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk Y o u n g A r c h e r How we used to do Hallowe’en By Diana Cormack Children used to try to spook their neighbours long before dressing up and knocking on doors for a trick or treat took over as the main activity on 31 October. We did it with All ears: McFly’s Tom Fletcher and his author wife Giovanna, both left, feature in the book with Noah’s Ark family Aga, Lucas, Borys and Wiktor. a home-made Hallowe’en lantern. I can remember carefully Hospice hand-in-hand with Disney slicing off the top of a swede Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice families from across north London have joined some of the world’s most famous or turnip before hollowing faces in a new book celebrating 90 years of Mickey Mouse. Mickey Mouse & Me by celebrity photographer Rankin out the inside of the vegetable features over 30 well-known names such as Kate Moss, Mark Hamill and Phillip Schofield alongside families of to create a head. That wasn’t children with life-limiting conditions. easy, but more difficult was Three hundred collector’s families to take part. And last with complex individual needs London. Visit www.noahsark- cutting out the three triangular edition copies went on sale on month Noah’s Ark was awarded in their own home, hospital or hospice.org.uk for info. shapes for the eyes and nose eBay in August, with all pro- £15,000 from the Andrew Lloyd the community. plus a mouth if we could ceeds going to children’s hos- Webber Foundation to support Its new hospice building, manage it. pice charity Together for Short its drama and music therapy ses- The Ark, opens in spring 2019 Hallowe’en Then two holes had to Lives, who invited Noah’s Ark sions for 65 seriously ill children to families in north and central be carefully made near the humour top edge and another two Here are some witch jokes through the sliced off top, School waves for Hallowe’en chosen by which made a covering lid. My camping trip Tom Evans, from Highgate String was poked through By Tom Evans the green flag Primary School. these holes to make a handle. This summer holiday I went camping with my brother, Q: What happened to the naughty Finally a candle had to be Pupils and staff at Cold- my daddy and my Highgate Primary school friends. witch at school? fitted inside. fall Primary School have My daddy and another daddy of my friend helped put A: She was ex-spelled. been awarded a Green up our tent. At first it was quite empty inside but then Q: Why do witches wear name Flag award by global there was less and less room because my daddy put up tags? programme Eco-Schools our blow up mattresses. A: So you can tell which witch is for their work in looking In the night I rolled off the bed mallows and hot chocolate. One which! after the school grounds and ended up sleeping on the floor night we watched a film called Q: What do we call a witch who Lego Ninjago Movie in one of lives on the beach? and raising awareness of lying on a duvet with lots of rugs A: A sand-witch. environmental issues. over me, so it was quite cosy! my friend’s tents. That was fun. Q: What did the witch’s cat have Children at the Muswell Hill During the day I had break- The best bit about camping for breakfast? school have learned about air fast, got dressed and played with was finding a tree that could be A: Mice Crispies. pollution and global warming all my friends. But the night was a tree house and the night times Q: What is the favourite lesson at as part of the school curriculum the funnest part of all because when we had our adventures. witch school? Kids only and take part in the Star Squad, I prowled around with torches The worst bit was waking up A: Spelling. Outside in the dark (with- which meets every week to and got to stay up very late. early in the morning and having Q: How do you make a witch out our parents) when the discuss how the school can be There was a camp fire and we to wait so long until night time itch? candle was lit we would more sustainable. had chocolate digestives, marsh- came again! A: Delete the W. wave the ‘head’ about. With its eyes, nose and mouth glowing, we would moan and All Saints’ Church, Durham Road, Get your hands on the scream eerily as we tried to East Finchley scare passers-by. That didn’t Church of England talent trophy always work and neither did North London’s Got Talent is set to return for a fourth the lantern. Sunday mass at 10.00 a.m. year and applications are now being taken from acts Firstly because there was Weekday masses at 10.00 a.m. hoping to win the coveted glitter ball trophy. often an autumn wind which (11.00 a.m. on Wednesdays during term time) blew out the match as soon (Coffee served after mass on Sunday and Thursday) So whether you’re a dancer, a singer, a magician or a come- dian, like to perform solo or as part of a group, organisers are as we struck it so we couldn’t light the candle. Or the wind Join us looking for a stellar line-up of performers to appear on stage at the North Finchley artsdepot on Saturday 2 February 2019. blew out the candle if we did on Wednesday 1 November at 8.00 p.m. Twelve acts will be shortlisted to entertain the audience at the manage to light it for a while. for our Feast of Title: All Saints’ Day event, which is run by North London Hospice with all proceeds The candle itself would often (followed by wine and refreshments) going towards funding patient care in Barnet, Enfield and Haringey. topple over because fixing and on Applications can be submitted online at www.northlondonhospice. it inside was never wholly successful, nor was the string Sunday 4 November at 6.30 p.m. org/nlgt or by calling the fundraising team on 020 8446 2288 and handle very stable. The holes for “In Loving Remembrance” must be in by the closing date of Monday 22 October. Remembering a loved one, finding comfort, for the string would some- sharing peace times split and the lantern (followed by refreshments) FUN and MUSIC for BABIES and TODDLERS would end up rolling away in N2 on TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS at 10am in the dark with us running The Parish has a flourishing social life. after it. with Hallowe’en is now a much All Saints’ also has a strong musical tradition LIVE ACCOMPANIMENT more organised and full-on ON VIOLIN AND GUITAR and an enthusiastic choir. at EAST FINCHLEY BAPTIST CHURCH, occasion. What we did would New singers are always welcome. Creighton Avenue probably not be tolerated today mainly because it was Contact the Vicar, Fr Christopher Hardy, on https://www.facebook.com/teddybearsmusicclub full of health and safety 020 8883 9315. issues. Read this again and http://www.allsaints-eastfinchley.org.uk https://www.facebook.com/SteppingStonesEastFinchley or text 07836 284538 see how many you can find! 9 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk OCTOBER 2018 What will Tarling The long struggle to settle after Road offer us? fleeing Cyprus By Janet Maitland Review by Diana Cormack The new community centre on Tarling Road is Soulla Christodoulou’s second novel The finally becoming a reality after years of delays and Summer Will Come was published earlier disappointments. While GRAHAM the building company this year. It is one of the few written against kits out the inside and landscapes the outside, City YMCA the background of the 1950s troubles in are busy talking to community groups about how it will Cyprus which involved the EOKA move- operate the centre. ment against British rule and the fight for Although City YMCA have is that youth provision is a key priority.” unity with Greece. not yet signed a management Many families fled their beloved island, hoping contract with Barnet Council, Access and affordability to find a better life in this country. Soulla tells the the council has commissioned We asked the council story of two families and the challenges they face them to identify community whether the contract to run the trying to settle in London. organisations interested in centre has any requirements hiring rooms so that momentum about access to the centre for East Finchley setting is not lost. everyone in the local com- For the most part they struggle through life, Several community groups munity. For example, does it frequently recalling the loveliness of Cyprus. In expressed an interest long specify that the leaseholder contrast this city seems a bleak and unwelcom- before work on the new build- should offer free and low cost ing place and it is quite a shock to realise that the ing even started, but the council activities? Will they be required families are living in pretty poor housing condi- tions in East Finchley. wants to make sure that every to allow local people to hire a Author Soulla Christodoulou potential group has been given room at the centre, for, say, a Cherry Tree Wood plays a part (fittingly Soulla the chance to make a case. birthday party? sold signed copies of her book there at this year’s Soulla was the first of her family to go “A range of community A council spokesman told community festival). One character has a shoe to university and, after a variety of jobs, has organisations working with us: “The council intends for repair business in Lincoln Road, as did Soulla’s spent several happy years teaching. She is now children and young people, as all the community to be able paternal grandfather, whilst her father had an involved in many interesting projects. To learn well as those providing activi- to hire the centre at a price that electrical shop nearby. Other familiar names and more, visit www.soulla-author.com ties for older residents, attended covers the running costs of the places in the vicinity are men- a meeting on September 11th,” community centre. The council tioned too. said Octavia Findlay from City will not be making a surplus Friction between YMCA. “Our feedback so far from the centre. However, the generations council is unable to subsidise Born in London to Greek Ricky Savage“The voice of social irresponsibility” ... Midhurst Butchers the centre’s running costs.” Cypriot parents, Soulla often Café space visited family in East Finchley. Off the rails Certified organic meat We also asked the council She describes the customs Back in days of old there was a glorious golden age of trains. at reasonable prices whether the leaseholder would and traditions they brought Back then you knew that the 2.45 from Much Wittering to be required to open a café at the with them, along with the Free-range poultry centre. The spokesman said that disapproval and cultural con- Paddington, changing at Bickering Junction, would be on Home-made sausages the council will be advertising flict raised when the younger time. There’d be cheerful whistling porters to carry your bags (including Boerwors) the café space and will respond generation wanted to emulate and a little old lady sitting in the corner knitting a howitzer. to the interest that they receive. the behaviour of their British Back then smiling school boys were at the end of every platform 2 Midhurst Parade, For more information about peers. This features strongly hoping to get the number of the new Wombat class as it puffed its Fortis Green, London N10 hiring space, contact octavia. in the story, where the many way north to York. It wasn’t just boys, you knew that if there was an Tel. 020 8883 5303 [email protected]. threads introduced eventually accident ahead young girls would wave their red knickers so that the knit together to form a happy driver could stop the train in time. And when you got home you could get out your train set and relive the whole thing in the comfort of your A friendly welcome awaits you and hopeful ending but which sometimes seemed a long time front room. Except it never was like that. EAST FINCHLEY METHODIST CHURCH coming. The French, the Germans and even the Belgians planned their 197 High Road, London N2 8AJ (opp. Creighton Ave.) Some sections could have railways, but in Britain they just happened until we had a mishmash tel: 0208 346 1700 www.eastfinchleymethodist.org.uk been omitted as they did not of conflicting routes crisscrossing the land. All was steam powered, add to the plot in general and dirty, smelly and pumping the kind of toxic rubbish out that took away Sunday service at 10.30 a.m. a couple of rather gruesome the joy of travel. The cheerful driver who greeted small boys with a events stretched my credulity wave was probably under paid and destined to die of some nasty lung with Crèche somewhat. A word of warning: disease about a week after he retired. do not read the book when you By 1945 the whole lot was broken, out of date, losing money and in dire need of nationalisation. This should have been good, but Worship Music are hungry as the most delicious Social events Wheelchair friendly somehow it took 30 years to get there. Then we got modern trains, e-mail: [email protected] Room hire tel:020 8444 9887 food and its preparation are described throughout! new stations and an attempt at decent transport. After another 20 years, John Major decided to flog the whole lot off when he should have invested in modernising it further. So now we have Great Northern Incompetent, Southern Cancellation, Western Ripoff and Verging on the Ridiculous. All with different fares and the style and charm of road kill. When my Incontinent Express ground to a halt outside Milton Springsteen, the driver was right when he blamed it on decades of under investment. ORE Trusted reputation. BEF AFTER But at least the Wittering to Bickering line has reopened. It’s run From doors swaps to full by retired bankers, an architect and a former teacher, all hooked on kitchens. some weird nostalgia trip. I’m not using it though, because great aunt Edith was right when she said that if God had meant us to take the The whole process managed from design to train he’d never have given us the Ford Cortina. completion. Made-to-measure Holy Trinity Church custom-built doors. Church Lane, East Finchley ● Up to 50% less than a fully fitted kitchen. Church of England We're a warm and friendly congregation who look forward to welcoming you Sunday Parish Communion at 10.00 am Children's Sunday Club 6 Meet over coffee after church Fr. Marius Mirt is happy to answer any enquiries: email: [email protected] tel: 020 3565 4430 Showroom: 983 High Road, North Finchley, N12 8QR www.holytrinityeastfinchley.org.uk 10 OCTOBER 2018 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk Regular Events Sport & Fitness Getting better all the  Finchley & Hornsey Ramblers Group Call Vivien 8883 8190  Glebelands Indoor Bowls Club, Sum- time for hairdresser mers Lane N12. New and experienced bowlers welcome.  1-2-1 boxing and Pilates training with Martin Carroll at home or private studio, to The Beatles call 07809 593952 By Diana Cormack  Pilates Classes Tue 9.30, Fri 9.15 & In September 2017 an article in The Archer revealed Sun 11am. www.pilatesineastfinchley. that, after an eight year project, the memoirs of Leslie co.uk. Michelle 07767 804 564  Tai Chi & Qigong in N2, Weds 12pm, 1pm, Cavendish had been published. Leslie is the manager of 6pm & 7pm. James 8883 3308/07836 the All Aboard charity shop on the High Road but, in a 710281 or [email protected] previous life, he was hairdresser to many of the top stars  Tennis club with four clay courts off of the 60s and 70s, including The Beatles. Southern Road. Call 8883 7723.  Tennis group lessons for adult begin- ners and intermediates, weekends, Park Road, N8. Contact Maz on tennisgift@ Ready to roll: Sound of the Suburb are returning to Madden’s gmail.com.  Yoga, breathing & relaxation. Weekly Homecoming rockers drop-in classes - N3, N6, N10. Phone Rock ‘n’ roll favourites Sound of the Suburb return to Judy on 07956 375607. East Finchley on Saturday 20 October to play live at  Yoga beginners’ course at Yogalogy, High Road, N2. Contact 020 70187377 Madden’s in the High Road. or [email protected] The band started out at the venue nearly 10 years ago and it will  Yoga, pregnancy yoga, meditation be their first gig there in 2018, although they’ve been kept busy classes. Call Sunnah 07941 321 772 playing other pub gigs and private parties around London and the www.stretchingpeople.co.uk. Home Counties. Band member Chris Berlingieri said: “It’s free  Women’s kick boxing, Thursdays entry for a fun night of great music and terrific food and drink.” 9.30am, East Finchley Combat Academy, Church Lane, N2. Contact 07956 340540. Music, Dance & Creative Arts  The Archer Community Choir, Tuesdays Paperback writer: Leslie Cavendish, with his book, The Cutting Edge. 7-9pm, The Archer Academy, Eagans Photo by Mike Coles Close, N2. Email: archercommuni- The Cutting Edge: The Story on 10 September and it will [email protected]. of the Beatles’ Hairdresser Who  Art Classes. Call Henry on 8888 5133. be out in all Spanish speaking  A-Chord , friendly choir, all genres, open to Defined an Erawas co-written countries by next year. all. Thursdays 8pm at NNLS, East End Rd. by Archer team member the late But it’s getting better all the Laura 07732 120464. www.a-chord.uk Neil McNaughton. The book time because the English paper-  Ballroom & Latin American Dance raised international interest and back version will be out in the Classes - beginners & improvers. Wed & has led to Leslie travelling all UK in February 2019. The book Fri eve, Bishop Douglass Sch. 8207 2323. over the world to talk about is available on Amazon and  ‘Calm & Sing’ workshops. Contact Angie on [email protected] it. He embarked on a series almabooks.com. To learn more  Creative writing classes in informal, of Q&A sessions and book visit www.beatleshairdresser. friendly atmosphere. Tel Sallie Rose 020 signings at shops and literary com or take your book into All 8444 7217. festivals all over the country, Aboard for Leslie to sign.  Creative Writing at Friern Barnet Com- Dinner guests: The cast of Muswell Hill in rehearsals including the Henley Literature munity Library. Every Saturday, 12pm, Festival last month. 07488 230580. Sing, Sing, Sing  Dance conditioning classes. New body One night in Muswell Hill… Spanish connection Having had successful trips If you love to sing, The in 10 lessons. Diana: 07580 041270. Garden Suburb Theatre’s production in October is Muswell Archer Community Choir www.boldbodies.co.uk. Hill, a modern drama with local and global themes. It to Chicago and New York,  is the place for you! East Finchley Writers Group, Weds at is January 2010 and one night an earthquake in Haiti Leslie is going to Florida the Old White Lion. Contact Ralph 8444 next April for a Beatles music We meet on Tuesdays at 7pm 5903. results in the death of around 100,000 people and almost weekend. Closer to home, he at The Archer Academy, Lower  East Finchley Poetry Writing Work- two million are left homeless. has a book lecture in Seville School Campus, Eagans Close, shops. Monthly on Saturdays. Contact At the same time, in leafy The play is being per- N2 8GA. We would love to wel- Dennis Evans 8346 9528. in December, but before that  Memory Lane Singing Club - friendly Muswell Hill, six friends formed at Upstairs at the he will be setting off from come more singers to expand singing club meets every Friday in meet over avocado, prawns Gatehouse, Highgate Village, Barcelona sailing round the our choir. You do not have to Finchley. Call Valerie 8458 4508. and a monkfish stew. They N6, from Wednesday 10 to Mediterranean on the first ever be able to read music but only  Over 50s Tea Dance at Christ Church, worry about their mortgages, Sunday 14 October. Tickets Beatles-themed cruise. to enjoy singing a range of light North Finchley. Every Weds, 1pm. 020 careers, phone tariffs, Facebook priced £13/£11 are available popular songs. Come and try a 8444 0280. Leslie has had good reason friends, diets, love lives, alcohol from www.upstairsatthegate- to visit Spain, for he signed a session for £5. A term’s fees cost  Learn to sing at Finchley Methodist intake… and whether or not house.com or from the Box around £80. Contact: archer- Church, Ballards La. Call 8888 4412. publishing deal for his book to  Muswell Hill after school ukulele club, history will remember them. Office on 020 8340 3488. be released in paperback there [email protected] Wednesdays 4.15-5.15pm, ages 6-10. Contact Margie 07909 439513. E-mail your listings to: [email protected]  Rock ’n Roll dance lessons, 8pm every What’s On... Weds at the Constitutional Club, The Saturday 6 October Muswell Hill, a modern drama with local Friday 19 October Hornsey Parish Church Hall, Cranley Walks. Drop-in. Call Kav 07721 489489.  Traditional tunes @ TOC Highgate Hill, join • Grange Big Local Fun Palace hosted and global themes set around a dinner • Memory Lane Singing Club presents Gardens, N10, 10am to 1pm; admission in playing by ear - 1st & 3rd Tues monthly by East Finchley Library, High Road, party in N10; Upstairs at the Gatehouse, its 25th Anniversary Showtime, 11am in 50p, refreshments available. For from 8.30pm. Free. 07958 282898. N2. Music MC’ed by Benteki, of Reprezent Highgate Village. Tickets priced £13/£11 St Mary’s Parish Hall, Hendon Lane, N3. information contact 020.8368 8180 or radio, football run by the Monday from www.upstairsatthegatehouse.com Free admission and all welcome. 07708152354 Clubs & Social Club, cheerleading from Saracens, free or 020 8340 3488. Saturday 20 October Saturday 27 to Wednesday 31 October  Bingo evening, 8pm Sundays, at the manicures from Vales Nails, dance Sunday 14 October • Rock ’n’ roll local favourites Sound of Halloween Walks with City of London Constitutional Club, The Walks, N2. from SOTO CIC, art with East Finchley • Piano Recital by Robert St.John to the Suburb play live at Madden’s, High guide Paul Baker. Meet outside High Barnet  Bingo Club Mondays 7-9 pm, Green Open Artists, the chance to look for include works by Bach, Brahms, Schubert, Road, N2. Free entry for a fun night of tube station, 7.30pm, for an introduction Man Centre, Contact: Jan 8815 5452 aliens with Mill Hill Observatory and Debussy, Mozart, Haydn and Chopin; East great music and terrific food and drink. to ghosts of High Barnet and Monken  French conversation in small friendly group with native speaker. 8444 9395. much more. Information at the Fun Palace Finchley Methodist Church, High Road, Saturday 27 October Hadley, the second most haunted village  Friends of Cherry Tree Wood www. website www.funpalaces.co.uk N2, opposite Creighton Avenue, 7.30pm; • Grange Big Local’s Annual General in England. Prizes for spookiest costumes. cherrytreewood.co.uk or 8883 7544. Sunday 7 and 14 October free admission with collection for North Meeting 11am to 2.30pm at St Mary’s Information from Paul on 020 8440 6805  Haringey Recorded Music Society • A&B Drama presents An Evening of London Hospice. Fully accessible venue. Parish Centre, 279 High Road, N2 8HG. or visit www.barnet-walks.co.uk. informal meetings locally. Call David Concerptual Absurdity, featuring short Monday 15 October Hear about the regeneration project’s Sunday 28 October Moldon on 8361 1696. plays by Tadeusz Rozewicz, Tom Jensen, • Open meeting to start planning the activities and achievements in 2018 and Join a Ramblers’ Association morning  Muslim Ladies Lunch Club 1st & 3rd Richard Fitchett and Martin Szalla. 7pm at East Finchley Summer Festival 2019; plans for 2019. Children’s activities and walk at 10am from Finchley Central Weds, Ann Owen Ctr., Oak La. Call Finchley Youth Theatre, 142 High Road. everyone welcome to come and offer ideas free lunch. For information text ‘Grange’ station, taking circular route via Dollis 8432 1415 to book. Tickets from Black Gull Books or www. and support for next year’s festival; Martin to 66777, email [email protected] Brook, Totteridge Lane and Burton Hole  Bridge Club, Thursday & Saturday abdrama.com Primary School, Plane Tree Walk, N2, at or call 020 8364 8400 ext. 241. Farm (six miles or 10km); expect muddy afternoons, Age UK, Oak Lane, N2 8LT. Wednesday 10 to Sunday 14 October 7.30pm. Contact eastfinchleyfestival@ Saturday 27 October patches sometimes. Contact leader Peter Contact Ray Tiano 07944 562180. • Garden Suburb Theatre presents gmail.com. Muswell Hill Indoor Car Boot Sale at Sand on 07858 374 980. 11 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk OCTOBER 2018

Send your correspondence Letters to: "Letters Page" Need for vigilance Too few 263 buses Library worse by the The Archer, PO Box 3699, Dear Editor, London N2 2DE or e-mail My husband and I have recently week [email protected]. Dear Editor, over High Road moved to St Pancras Court, just off Letters without verifiable contact the High Road. We are very happy An article in September’s Archer was headed ‘Library turns into a addresses will not be printed. with the neighbourhood, except Contact details can be withheld for one thing: the very infrequent palace’. We don’t need a palace. on request at publication. We flat building bus service. What we desperately need is a reserve the right to abridge letters By Mary Hogben The only bus which serves proper working library. Under the for reasons of space. In July last year, Barnet Council approved a controversial this part of the High Road is the control (?) of Capita, the library ser- 263 which only turns up every vice becomes worse by the week. application for development of the former GLH minicab Phoning to carry out basic Schooling and shopping site opposite East Finchley Station. The application was 7-15 minutes, but sometimes it is necessary to wait even longer. This transactions is completely Dear Editor, to demolish historic Valona House and build two blocks is a densely inhabited area, and unpredictable. Sometimes it is I was sorry to read David accommodating 21 flats, office space and two car parking there are always people waiting at impossible to reach a person, but Smith has retired as governor of spaces. the bus stop. you can renew on the automated Holy Trinity School (The Archer, line; another time there is no June 2018). I have such fond Dumped rubbish Barnet’s planners agree. In May I wrote to the Mayor of London to suggest that the number automated renewal and your books memories of his mother, who was Fifteen months on, Valona Developers should observe are renewed by a human. our playground and welfare lady. House is still standing, and of buses should be doubled, or rules that there should be a shuttle bus The latest is that my renewal My grandson Jake was the fifth the land is being used to dump The original application was was blocked. I have used East generation in our family to attend rubbish up to the garden walls running between North Finchley vigorously opposed by residents and Highgate. I received a reply Finchley Library for decades and Holy Trinity. I hope it keeps the high of neighbouring Ingram Road. and The Finchley Society, and have no outstanding fines or blots standard it always had. However, the developer, Safe- saying that my suggestion had after been passed on to Transport for on my record. No reason was Also, I was interested to read land plc, recently put in an 18 months of critical moni- given, but the supervisor graciously Andrew Bryson’s comments about application to dig basements London and that I should receive a toring of documents and three response within ten working days. authorised the renewal. banks and shops in the High Road below both blocks, adding four appearances at committee, You won’t be surprised to hear that I then attended the library (The Archer, July 2018). Andrew and found – surprise, surprise – and his big brother Gary would subterranean dwellings and the number of dwellings was I am still waiting. making numerous changes to In any case, I don’t expect a staff in attendance, but unable to remember the lovely shops we had reduced and some changes made issue books as the system was in the High Road were Sainsbury, W the approved plans. This was to the elevations, particularly single letter to get results. I’m sure submitted as a “non-material that many dissatisfied users of the not operating properly. I am now Brothers, Tesco, Corn Merchants, those overlooking the houses waiting to be fined for books that shoe shop, Glovers and the Co-op. amendment”. behind. This became the scheme 263 bus must be readers of The Archer. I would like to suggest that are already returned! We had everything. No need to go When is a change which was finally approved. It is difficult not to draw the further. But East Finchley still has ‘material’? Approved documents if other people also wrote to TfL to complain about this infrequent conclusion that Barnet Council the friendly village atmosphere and An application for ‘non- include a set of drawings and want to use the difficulty of is the best place to live. material amendment’ does not descriptions by which the built service then perhaps TfL might consider putting more buses on borrowing books as an excuse to Yours faithfully, statutorily require any public product will need to be com- close the library. Need one look Margaret Cartwright, pared. If there is a significant this route. consultation. There is no defini- Yours faithfully, further for a suitable purpose for Leicester Road, N2. tion of ‘non-material change’ in difference then the council can lottery funding? planning regulation guidance, use its powers of enforcement Anna Lowenstein, Yours faithfully, and it is left up to the discretion to request change, or even St Pancras Court, Valerie Jablon, Parking of the local authority. Luckily demolition. High Road, N2. Gurney Drive, N2. for East Finchley the application Developers are required to was published on the council’s work on their plans, and make time limit at planning website so that we a formal application to illustrate could all see it. how they will be dealing with Crash, bang, wallop, leisure park Most people would agree that conditions attached when their New parking restrictions adding 20% more dwellings, schemes were approved. How- have been introduced at the creating basements, changing ever, Safeland plc submitted a N2United is back! elevations and adding to the radically changed plan. We all By Charles Haydn Great North Leisure Park density on the site is ‘material need to keep vigilant, as this The September meeting of the N2United business in North Finchley. Free change’. Luckily the applica- practice by developers to slip networking group certainly started with a bang. Just parking is now limited to tion has now been withdrawn changes through is commonly before the start of the meeting at the Clissold Arms on four hours for visitors using so hopefully we can assume that exploited. Fortis Green, two cars collided right outside, stopping the leisure centre, cinema the traffic between East Finchley and Muswell Hill. or restaurants, with no The collision was soon rid East Finchley of single use option to pay to stay longer. attended by not one but three plastics as well as a discussion Number plate cameras fire engines and two police cars. on a Christmas campaign along monitor your entrance With the assistance of Clissold the High Road. and exit times and there is manager Lee the fire and police Since 2016, N2United has a £100 fine for those who officers quickly cleared the dam- been steadily building its mem- exceed the time limit, £60 aged vehicles to allow the traffic bership with these monthly if paid within two weeks. to flow again. A quick check by meetings to help grow N2 the N2United team to make sure businesses and connect them Look out for the (small) no one was seriously injured, to a dynamic, supportive local signs that are positioned and the meeting commenced, network. It meets on the second around the car park. albeit with a few frantic calls Thursday of each month and from members caught in traffic. attendance costs £10 for non- Follow us! Down to business members. For more details Host for the evening Ruth visit n2united.co.uk or search Anders steered a lively discus- #n2united on Facebook or Instagram and come along to Early Sunday morning on the High Road Photo Mike Coles sion on a range of business topics which included a presentation a meeting. You will be made @TheArcherN2 from Sophie Fleming, North most welcome! A busy night for the London Regional Director for The Athena Network, who gave valuable tips on networking. East Finchley Baptist Church rubbish raiders After this, Octavia Findlay, Just off the High Road in Creighton Avenue N2 Our photographer Mike Coles was out buying a Project Manager for the City newspaper early one morning when he spotted signs that YMCA and lead community Sunday Mornings at 10.30 am foxes had been busy in the High Road overnight. Bags of consultation for the Tarling Crèche and Sunday School during service recyclable rubbish left out by traders for their scheduled Road Community Hub project, Wheelchair access roadside collection had been raided, creating a fair old tempted everyone with the vari- For more information please contact the Church Office mess across the pavement. ous business opportunities avail- Tel: 8883 1544 (Minister: John Lowrie) We can’t blame the foxes, who after all are scavengers, but able when the new centre opens. www.eastfinchleybc.org.uk perhaps incidents like this are a reason to rethink the way business There was an update by Joanne waste is left out for collection. Westgate on the campaign to Visitors always welcome John’s Shoe Repairs OCTOBER 2018 PAGE 12 Shoes, Trainers, Sandals, Bags and Luggage Complete Repair Service by a craftsman Same day if required Key Cutting 1 Manor Park Rd. N2, behind 88 Church Lane, opposite Trinity Church The Archer Tel: 07956 329 150 Open Tuesday - Saturday 12-7pm Published by East Finchley Newspapers, P.O. Box 3699, London N2 2DE. www.the-archer.co.uk

Forever in our hearts: Ruth Kersley, above, with the first Grenfell mosaic and, right, the three others in the playground at Avondale Park Primary School. Photos Michael Greisman A way to remember By John Lawrence When fire took hold of Grenfell Tower in west London, it claimed the lives of 72 people, many of them children. Families, schools and communities in the area were left traumatised. Four months after the trag- raced houses and streets that week after school and welcomed edy, glass and mosaic artist Ruth cover the North Kensington the offers of help from mothers Kersley approached one primary area. The second and third and staff. school in the shadow of the tower represent portraits of the two Shocked community with the idea of creating a perma- families who died, and the fourth “I think it was a cathartic nent memorial to two families depicts a garden of hope filled experience for them,” said including six children and one with flowers created by one of Ruth. “Here was something staff member who lost their lives. the victims’ classmates, now constructive to do in a situation Mosaics of memory in year 2. where they felt so powerless. Ruth, of Abbots Gardens, Some of those I worked with and hope N2, involved Avondale’s chil- The project she started had lost their homes in the fire. dren and staff every step of the resulted in the four beautiful “For me it was an extraor- way. Each class from nursery mosaics that today take pride dinary experience. I’ve lived to year six created the drawings of place in the playground of in East Finchley a long time and helped to cut and stick the Avondale Park Primary School. but, through this, I got to know ceramic and glass tiles that form The8535(AW)TheArcher_2ColumnAdvert:ClintonSmith_020 first panel shows Grenfell 7267 7727 5/2/1and care4 for a whole different the mosaics. Ruth also ran an art Tower placed among the ter- community in W10 and W11 club for older children once a that I previously knew noth- ing about. They are lovely people.” It was a community still in Your shock. “I was both saddened Security and moved to spend time with problems ! the children and hear their Solved stories whilst working in the STEWART DUNCAN OPTICIANS shadow of the building,” said SINCE 1962 Ruth. Avondale Park is just 126 HIGH ROAD, EAST FINCHLEY, N2 9ED TEL. NO: 020 8883 2020 Intruder Alarms 300m from where the shell of Grenfell still stands. CCTV EYE EXAMINATIONS “I could not have done this CONTACT LENSES Access Control project without the support of staff, especially the wonderful DESIGNER EYEWEAR SUNGLASSES Intercom Systems headteacher Katy Blackler. She showed extreme fortitude LATE NIGHT Locks, Doors & Keys at the time of the fire, keep- DYSLEXIA CLINIC ing the school open from the Safes & Grilles immediate aftermath, ensuring that children had a safe envi- Locksmiths ronment and some normality in a traumatic situation.” COLIN SCLARE ‘Forever in our hearts’ Sales & Lettings After six months of hard 119a East End Road, East Finchley, London, N2 0SZ work, the four mosaics, cre- ated by the whole school, were We cover East Finchley, Muswell Hill, unveiled at a moving com- Hampstead Garden Suburb, North Finchley, Whetstone, memorative assembly on the Finchley Central, Barnet, Friern Barnet, Golders Green, Archway, Islington and parts of the City. first anniversary of the blaze. Letting fee: 7% (= 8.4% incl vat) Sales fee: 1% (= 1.2% incl vat) O2O 8442 O66O The inscriptions they bear Securebase Ltd But more importantly, a quality service to you! 112 High Road, East Finchley, London N2 9EB in English and Arabic read: T: 020 8442 0660 Open 6 days a week F: 020 8365 2788 “Forever in our hearts”.Find 9.30 am - 7 pm Monday to Friday 10 am - 3 pm Saturdays [email protected] out more about Ruth’s work at Contact us on www.securebase.co.uk www.ruth-glass.com. 020 8444 3351 www.colinsclare.co.uk [email protected] The Archer is a non-profit-making, non-political & non-religious newspaper, staffed entirely by volunteers.