Westcombe News October 2013 Oct2013n.QXD WN.QXD 23/09/2013 10:50 Page 3 LOCAL NEWS

Oct2013n.QXD_WN.QXD 23/09/2013 10:49 Page 1 40th Year Westcombe Est. 1973 Free to 3800 homes, and in libraries & some shops NEWS October 2013 Issue 8

A community newspaper commended by the London Forum of Amenity and Civic Societies Monthly newspaper of The Westcombe Society: fostering a sense of community Raw deal for PHOTO: Jack Kay rail users n 2014 trains will have been running London Bridge, but there will be no Ifor 150 years between Charing Cross physical track connection that will and Greenwich. enable trains to reach Charing Cross. Unfortunately, it may also be the So, after 150 years, the West End last year as, from January 2015, there will no longer be reached by direct are plans to stop all direct trains to trains from Greenwich. Waterloo East and Charing Cross The Greenwich Line Users’ Group from the four stations on the was formed this year, with the support of Greenwich line, including Westcombe the Westcombe Society, to represent the Park and Maze Hill, with all services interests of all passengers who use the being diverted into Cannon Street. Greenwich Line. Whilst we recognise The next dog show organised by the Friends of Mycenae Gardens with The Dog Even worse, for three years until the that the work at London Bridge will Society Greenwich and Blackheath is on October 13th. Winner of last year’s fancy beginning of 2018, it will not even be bring about many improvements for pas- dress event was Batman and Robin, Harry Mackessy, 6, and his dog Henry, also 6. possible to change trains at London sengers generally, it will disadvantage Please see the story on page 3. Bridge for a Southeastern users of the Greenwich Line. service to these stations. Mike Sparham, Our objective is to This is all a consequence Convenor of the remove that disadvantage. of the Thameslink pro- Insufficient thought has been Can you spend 20 minutes a gramme, a £6bn Greenwich Line given by the Department for Government-funded scheme Users Group Transport to the impact on month helping with the WN? to improve capacity on the Greenwich Line users and the Thameslink route through the re-building possible ways in which direct Charing lot of people are involved in pro- pedal cycle. This is clearly not an ideal of London Bridge. Cross services could be maintained. Aducing and delivering your situation! This programme means that from Cannon Street is a fine station for the favourite local newspaper, the WN. The We are asking for volunteers either to January 2015 until August 2016 no City, but hopeless for getting to and from paper is delivered, free of charge, to take turns doing the counting out, and/or Charing Cross trains will call at London the West End: and on Saturdays there every household in the area, in the belief delivering the bundles to the deliverers Bridge. isn’t even a Tube connection. that the Society exists not just for its (and to a few other outlets such as public The Group will be lobbying the members, but for the whole community. libraries), say once every three months No direct trains to the West End Department for Transport, Network However, the time has come to call on or so. Then from August 2016 to early 2018 no Rail and Southeastern trains for a new volunteers – to write for and pro- “Counting out is a fun job,” said Cannon Street trains will call at London service that meets the needs of South duce the WN, and also to deliver it. Myles. “We get to see advance copies of Bridge, meaning that when you get on a East Londoners. Currently, our Distribution Manager, the WN – and when three or four peo- London-bound train from Westcombe The Group has been invited by SE Myles Dove, ably assisted by Barbara, ple set about the job, it becomes quite an Park and Maze Hill it will whisk (or Trains to make an input into the service does a wonderful job of “counting out” enjoyable social occasion! trundle) you non-stop from Deptford to provisions currently being negotiated bundles, street by street, and ensuring “We could also do with more street- Cannon Street but nowhere else. with Department for Transport for the the different bundles are delivered to our deliverers,” he adds. He points out that There will be alternative routes, but period 2014 – 2018. We will be doing splendid team of deliverers. Myles and the average time per round is only 20 - all have disadvantages in time and/or this and focussing on ways to mitigate Barbara greatly appreciate the help of all 30 minutes, depending on the number of cost. Many may be tempted to use the the impact of the London Bridge re- who help them in this process. copies. Only once a month! Underground from North Greenwich development as well as the longer-term However, one problem is that Myles More volunteers are needed to help instead, but that line is already crowded service that local rail users want to see. Dove and Barbara Henley, who have out when regular deliverers are ill or on in the peak hours. The Users’ Group are happy to been doing this job for the last 21 years, holiday or decide to move away. Once the work is complete, it will receive any comments and can be con- are no longer car drivers, and they are Willing to help out from time to time? once again be possible to change at tacted at [email protected] taking round the bagged-up copies by Please give Myles a ring on 8853 3740. Why not send in YOUR news? Write to: < NEWS BRIEFS > [email protected] The Westcombe Society Quiz Night View our new web site! year’s exam results. At A level there was a Food banks The Westcombe Society has created its new 96% pass rate and 96% of students who There are three Food banks in Greenwich. Main Hall of Mycenae House on Friday, Nov. 1st website - www.westcombesociety.org/. applied to university got in. Those who did The nearest one is at The Boys' Brigade at 7.30 for an 8.00 pm start. Have you viewed it yet? One treat – you can not have decided to take a gap year and Hall, Reynolds Place, open on Thursdays Teams of 6. Get a team together or come read the Westcombe News in colour! re-apply next year. from 11.30 am - 2.30 pm. To use Foodbank on your own & help make up a team. “At GCSE 95% of our students achieved you need a voucher from your social work- Please book in advance: New Blackheath Guide at least 5A*-C, and 64% got at least 5A*-C er, GP or headteacher.To donate food or toi- Members £5.00 per person; Non Members £6.00. Planned for the autumn is a new guide including English and Maths.” There were letries, items can be taken to the Hall at the Fish ’n chip suppers – or simply chips – can about Heath walks called Walking the Heath many exceptional individual performances above times, or to St John's Church or be ordered when booking. – an introduction to its 1000 year history including: Sunfields Church. For information and Please ring Caroline on 8853 0948 to book your compiled by our local historian, Neil Rhind, Thomas Schlanker 3 straight As at A level; shopping list: greenwich.foodbank.org.uk place/table and any meal(s). and Society committee member Roger and, at AS level, Wing Chow 5 straight As, Complimentary nibbles provided, Marshall, a long-standing member of the and Rosa Baxter 4 As. At GCSE level: Nina Attacked by a dog & the Bar will be open. Raffle. Prizes! Westcombe Society. Law (11 As or A*s ) Nimesh Subedi, Uswa A lady waiting at a bus stop in Westcombe Bookings close Friday 25th October. Ahmed, Ella Statham all got 10 As or A*s, Park Road was the victim of an unprovoked Congratulations to and Eleanor Rawnsley got nine. “In a year attack by a dog. The dog’s owner, said Dickensian Christmas Bazaar Age Exchange, which celebrated its greatly disrupted by our building pro- sorry, and walked away. A friend called an This very popular event is on 23rd Nov. from 11.30am Thirtieth Anniversary in September with a gramme, all these results are particularly ambulance, and today, four weeks later, her to 4pm at Blackheath High School for Girls. Teatime Reception in the House of pleasing,” said Des. leg is still heavily bandaged. The dog was Many delightful craft stalls and entertainment Commons, hosted by MPs Nick Raynsford Blackheath High School also celebrated grey; it looked like an English Bull terrier. for children including Santa's Grotto. and Heidi Alexander. another year of superb academic achieve- ment, bucking the national trend with an Ottie and the Bea Gifts Wanted.... Congratulations also . . . increase of 7% in the top A* and A grades. Our local toy shop has just celebrated its Any unwanted gifts, toiletries or bottles that can be To all our young people on their examina- 69% of the grades were A*/A and 60% of third birthday of successful trading with a donated as prizes in the tombolas or raffles gratefully tion results. Des Malone, head of Johan the students gained A*/A grades in at least 8 free Okido workshop – and coverage in the received! Please call Marilyn 020 8853 1312 Roan, said they were delighted with this subjects. Independent. Well done Julia! Oct2013n.QXD_WN.QXD 23/09/2013 10:50 Page 2 COMMUNITY NEWS WESTCOMBE NEWS The Westcombe Society All editoriAl correspondence to: neville Grant, The Editor [email protected] Members’ Party Tel. 020 8858 8489 All MAteriAl to Be sent to: [email protected] deadline for november: 16th Oct. news editor: Geoff Garvey environment editor: Sarah Winterbottom reporters: Denise Scott-McDonald Marilyn greets Sharon See below. environMent coMMittee emily norton All queries and comments to: 020 8853 2756 Calling all [email protected] astronomers distriBution Myles dove & Barbara Henley here’s lots going on at the National Jean-Jacques and Maureen Aune TMaritime Museum. For example, the Volunteer distributors please phone Astronomy Photographer of the Year 020 8853 3740, we need your help! competition and exhibition continues to showcase incredible images from ama- AdvertisinG MAnAGer ur annual members’ Marilyn little, 163 Westcombe Party went with its teur astro-photographers all around the Hill, se3 7dp 020 8853 1312 usual brio, helped world. email: advertisingmanager@ O The awards ceremony took place on along by Dave Silk (double westcombesociety.org bass) and Phil Mead (piano). the 18th September at the Royal All adverts payable in advance by Members enjoyed a deli- Observatory, to celebrate all the entries, cheque to the Westcombe society. cious meal. Many thanks to but you can view them all for yourselves costs: J-J and Maureen Aune, until 23rd February. displAY: Single column 6cm x 6cm: Caroline Owens, Joanne Then there is also a unique range of One - four issues £35, five-plus issues £30 Lucas, Patricia Slade Baker opportunities for those who wish to each. Other sizes: please inquire. and Tessa Cross for helping classified Ads (Market Place) 30p per word to organise the party. study astronomy. The Royal Observatory (A telephone number = one word. An email/ offers courses for beginners alongside web address = 3 words.) Deadline for all Chairman of the Society Marilyn then introduced these young people. SLSL is Marilyn Little thanked Sharon Brokenshire, who the Westcombe Society’s GCSE Astronomy & Foundation adverts is 10th day of the preceding month members for their support, runs the South London Charity of the year and we Astrophysics. Students at the and made a special plea for Special League. This pro- will be funding their Observatory have access to unique printed by: trojan press more volunteers to come vides sports facilities and Specialist Sports Camp to be resources, including the Observatory’s contact the Westcombe society: forward to help out at events. events for disabled and dis- held next February. state-of-the-art digital planetarium and a [email protected] She emphasised that the advantaged players. Sharon Marilyn said that we all publisher: The Westcombe Society historic 28-inch refractor telescope. duties were not onerous and then spoke about the work of looked forward to our next For those interested in porcine pleas- chairman: Marilyn Little were a very good way the SLSL, particularly the big event, the Christmas Tel. 020 8853 1312 of making new friends. Specialist Sports Camp, an Bazaar, on November 23rd, ures, a musical pig that played a tune for She also urged all to look exciting project that offers which would be raising children as the Titanic sank, has sung its The v iews expressed in the Westcombe at the society’s new website. unique opportunities for funds for the SLSL. tune for the first time in living memory News are not necessarily those of the thanks to x-ray technology. Westcombe Society or of the Editor. We take all reasonable precautions to South London Find out more at rmg.co.uk protect the interests of our readers by Sharon ensuring as far as possible the bona fides of our advertisers but cannot accept any Brokenshire Special League Waterfront Leisure Centre Woolwich SE18 6DL responsibility for them. Any complaints he South London Special League should be addressed to the advertiser. Apple To access back-numbers (in colour) go to: T(SLSL) is a successful, independent www.westcombesociety.org/westcombe-news/ charity that exists solely on contributions, Westcombe Society’s Blog: grants and public funding. The SLSL www.westcombesociety.org encourages the participation in regular and day competitive sport by disabled children and oin us at Woodlands Farm for a cele- Westcombe society membership adults. Jbration of British apples on Sun. 13 The SLSL began with football, but now October 2013, from 11.00am to 4.00pm. please send this membership form to: includes sports such as cricket, Powerchair This is an opportunity to discover and peter Lewins, 221 Westcombe h ill, Football, table cricket, Boccia, New Age s e 3 7Dp buy many different types of traditional Kurling, and, recently, archery. It also British apples. There will be a variety Name...... offers opportunities for disabled young of activities including traditional crafts Address...... adults to pursue coaching qualifications. such as making corn dollies, a treasure In ten years the South London Special players can enjoy playing them, and reap hunt, archery, apple pressing to make ...... League has evolved considerably: it has the benefits of fitness from taking part in delicious juice, stalls selling local pro- won several awards and continues to lead sporting activities. Emily, a girl with t el...... duce, including our own honey and the way in terms of sports development for cerebral palsy,In partnership and a with keen sports woman, e mail: ...... disabled people. Over 5000 disabled play- told us that she loved the sports Camps home-made jams and cakes. Try some Kentish Cider, too! A great day out for Please enclose payment as appropriate: ers have played for SLSL in that time. because it made her feel so “normal” We believe that sport is the greatest lev- Next year South London Special Year will all the family. Entry is free, but dona- Family membership £12 [ ] eller whatever one’s background or ability. be celebrating its tenth anniversary with tions are welcome and go towards the individual membership £8 [ ] running of the Farm. s enior c itizens/unwaged £4 [ ] We are here to enable people to access “Special World Cup 2014” at London sport appropriately and safely. Our coach- Marathon Playing Fields , 304 Shooters The Woodlands Farm Trust es and volunteers are highly qualified, Hill Road. Dates to be announced. 331 Shooters Hill and have been selected specifically for HAVE YOU MADE Corrections: September’s WN their experience and understanding of the to the editor YOUR WILL? needs of disabled people. Letters It became increasingly apparent to me Apologies to Gabbie Marston and the Peter Bowyer Professional that disabled youngsters are excluded from From: Keith Townend Stratheden Rd. residents of Coleraine Road for renam- Will Writing Services sport. Mainstream sports clubs, although Thank you for including in September’s WN ing it Coraline Road. (Member of the Society of Will Writers willing, are not set up to deal with the the splendid article on Anna Townend. Anna and the Institute of Professional special needs of our users. shrinks from promoting herself, and you have In the article by Angela Burr on Anna Will Writers) Our Specialist Sports Camp is held at done her, and her causes, great service. Townend, a gremlin destroyed the last Single/Double Wills the Waterfront Leisure Centre, Woolwich. sentence, which (literally) lost its way: From: Janet Sweet Westcombe Park Powers of Attorney It is designed to ensure that everyone feels the last word should be way, and the confident, successful and valued. It is I refer to Zoe Cooke's letter in the September whole sentence should have been: Professional Insurance issue. Personally, I am delighted that the important that there is no cost for this Isn’t it time that Greenwich Council Home Visits Heath and surrounding areas are saved from sports week, as we want to ensure there are and the Royal Parks searched their NIMBY. I feel sure I am not your only 0800 389 7387 no barriers to inclusion. consciences and recognised her reader to hope that this happy state of affairs contribution in some way? www.londonwills.com We adapt sports to ensure our young continues.

2 Westcombe News October 2013 Oct2013n.QXD_WN.QXD 23/09/2013 10:50 Page 3 LOCAL NEWS

David All serene in Seren Park More canine capers Hall he fiasco of the locked gate between “They also claimed that approval was TMaze Hill station and Seren Park is needed from the Office of Rail finally over. Regulation (ORR) – a layer of bureau- When residents first moved into flats cracy that readers won’t want to know at Seren Park, they were promised direct about. access to the station. However, the gate The feeling was mutual: the ORR remained locked for four years, and the did not want to know about this little residents either faced a long detour – or local problem... In the end, Southeastern a short cut through Tom Smith Close. agreed that the gate could open before A result at last – but only after many the Oyster Card reader was put in place. months of nagging Network Rail, who So, common sense has finally pre- promised, in February 2012, that the vailed and the path was opened on gate would be open "within a few September 3rd. weeks". Reports Cllr Brighty: “I was there at The bone of contention: who would about 2.00pm to take a look and the gate foot the £30,000 bill for an Oyster Card had indeed been opened and some resi- PHOTO: Jack Kay reader. Nick Raynsford and local coun- dents were already using it.” cillors joined forces to press for a result. Just in time, he added, as the Council Last year’s champ: Teddie: Winner of the Mercury Puppy Award 2012 "Then incredibly, and quite wrongly, has now replaced the boundary fencing Network Rail claimed they needed to get with Tom Smith Close, with more ollowing last year’s successful event best fancy dress (see front page, last year’s the council’s consent to allow the gate to robust materials. So this long-running Fthe Friends of Mycenae Gardens with winner!), and the dog that looks most like be opened!" says Cllr Alex Grant. saga has at last been resolved. The Dog Society Greenwich and its owner, as well as regulars for obedience Blackheath will hold an afternoon of and good looks. canine capers: fun and activities for dog People get free admission and the dogs Memories of the Great War 1914 - 1918 owners, their families & their pets, from 12 get a chance to shine for just £2 a contest. to 4.00 pm on Sunday 13 October. Details, and entry forms to download and ge Exchange in Blackheath Village War” project which will involve a travel- New for 2013 will be the Dogs Trust, bring along, are at http://www.mycenae- is appealing to relatives of those ling exhibition and theatre production; offering free microchipping for dogs, as gardens.org.uk and via wwwthedogsoci- A well as vouchers for free health checks and etygb.wordpress.com who fought – or indeed refused to fight the material would then go into an free neutering. A ‘batty’ footnote to add to this ‘dodgy’ on conscientious grounds – in the Great archive to commemorate the 100th This year Grumpiest Dog joins the story... The Friends of Mycenae Gardens War, as well as those who served in the anniversary of the outbreak of the war ranks of the other popular competitions for had a successful pilot bat walk in August and ambulance corps, in munitions, or on the Anyone who would like to share waggiest tail, best act by dog and owner, is making plans for other similar events. home front. photographs memories or memorabilia Age Exchange plans to assemble a is invited to call into Age Exchange, 11 collection of family stories and momen- Blackheath Village or email New Community Garden Gordon Baker tos as part of the “Children of the Great [email protected] his is a project that has developed out isolation and mental distress. Tof the community pain clinic that I Dr McGavin has set up a successful Waiting for have been running at Vanbrugh HC since pain management service based on these 2009,” says Dr Ellen Wright, GP Partner in principles in Maidstone and wanted to Vanbrugh PMS Practice, Vanbrugh Hill develop a similar concept in Greenwich. Health Centre. Patients receive anthroposophic treat- the beat The pain clinic was established as a ments (including eurythmy movement ther- he London Marathon is a great and pilot with the aim of treating patients with apy and massage) which may be combined Tjoyful national event, and raises a lot chronic pain in a community rather than a with social projects (such as gardening, of money for charity, and no one com- hospital setting, so providing both more craft making and a choir). The garden is plains about a certain amount of incon- holistic and cost-effective care. much admired by visitors and patients. venience. “I was most fortunate to be approached Says Dr Wright: “The garden is open to The same does not apply to the Run by Dr David McGavin, of the Kairos all patients and the local community, and to the Beat event which this year Jessie-J: Worth waiting for! charity,” says Dr Wright. “David is a we are keen to encourage all who wish to involved 19,000 runners in a circular specialist in anthroposophic medicine.” participate.” route beginning and ending in runners: many were brought to a stand- Anthroposophic medicine is based on The pain clinic is NHS-funded. You need Greenwich Park. Like the Marathon, still four miles into the course, at a the philosophy of Rudolph Steiner, that to be referred by your GP – anyone regis- the event should be fun. bottleneck in Artillery Barracks in particularly seeks to value and integrate the tered with a Greenwich GP is eligible. But for many local residents, it was a Woolwich. Many runners complained physical, emotional and spiritual aspects The charity, Kairos, works together with run too far – although individual runners that their timing was wrecked – and of the human being. the pain clinic but anyone interested in The approach is particularly appropriate the alternative and social therapies they may get sponsorship for charity, it is not some suffered from cramp as a result of for patients suffering the complex effects offer can also contact them directly via: in itself a charity event, and the Council running, and then waiting, before start- of long-standing chronic pain, particularly Ingrid Hermansen 07712 810108 is paid £10,000 for making its streets – ing to run again. Not best practice! our streets – available. (Next year the Others were not be very keen on the sum is set to be raised to £20,000). coconut water they were given. The Well done Greenwich This is chicken feed for the amount of final stage of the course – up hill in inconvenience caused, say local critics, Greenwich Park –meant that wheelchair he Royal Borough of Greenwich’s The Royal Borough’s ‘Families First’ who also claim that there was little or no runners had their front wheels upended! Tanti-poverty polices have been praised programme helps people who have a range local consultation on how it should be One consolation: those that made it by the Government for being among the of issues which may include involvement best in the country at helping local families in youth crime or anti-social behaviour, organised, or what route causes the least back to the park were greeted by a con- turn their lives around. high levels of truancy, health concerns or mayhem. cert from Jessie-J; amazingly, despite The Secretary of State for Communities an adult out of work. This year, the complaints came not their exertions, many started dancing! and Local Government, the Rt Hon Eric The successful scheme provides each only from residents, but also from the Don’t say: Let’s go for Pickles MP, and Louise Casey, the head of family with a dedicated support worker. a healthy run! the troubled families programme, visited New figures show that a £650 million pro- Mycenae House Do say: Greenwich last month, and met local fami- gramme has turned around the lives of community centre Shall we dance? lies who have had their lives transformed. 14,000 of Britain’s most troubled families. ...at the heart of yyoour communittyy A & A LANDSCAPES Landscape Specialists Check out what’’ss NEW in 2013!!

Free advice & Qualified

estimates horticulturalist

All aspects of soft & hard landscaping work carried out including " ! * Maintenance *Site clearance * Turfing * Tree surgery Op 9am - 11pm * Fencing * Patios 020 8858 1749 www.mycenaehouse.co.uk * Brickwork Tel. 020 8318 2530 90 Mycenae Road, Blackheath, SE3 7SE Suuppported bbyy Rooyyal Borroouuggh of Greenwich

Westcombe News October 2013 3 Oct2013n.QXD_WN.QXD 23/09/2013 10:50 Page 4

FEATURES Yes, you! The Urge to photograph of some of the founder mem- Volunteer bers of the Westcombe Society: when the society started back in 1973, these same people would have been quite young. Mary Spence Times have changed, and people these days are under great pressure in many his summer’s Olympic anniversary ways. Many of us simply do not always was marked by legacy laments have a great deal of spare time that can be Tfocused on sports participation, eco- devoted to volunteering. nomic growth and volunteering. The urge here are so many opportunities for to volunteer, it seems, didn’t last. As Tvolunteering both locally and nation- Happiness is . . . someone who volunteered for both the ally: and those who take part find the Olympic and Paralympics, plus a small experience enriching. The Westcombe stint as a London Ambassador, I feel Society regularly gives financial and inspired to respond. other support to numerous local chari- The bad news is that there is no “urge to ties, all of which depend heavily on the volunteer”. For people to work without support of volunteers. pay they need good reasons. Here are However, if you have an urge to volun- three: to be part of something bigger than teer to support your local community here themselves, to use a part of themselves that in Westcombe Park, you need look no gives satisfaction and pleasure, to make a further than the Westcombe Society. contribution that is appreciated. On the face of it, we are not short of . . . helping out! 70,000 people joined the Olympics But back to the real world. Could any- volunteers: ten times a year, more than So here is the good news: volunteering because they wanted to be part of someone possibly want to volunteer in more sixty people take part in producing or dis- need not be a burden – indeed, it is an thing big, famous, unique, and on their mundane contexts? Of course they do. tributing the Westcombe News; and there opportunity: to make new friends, and to doorsteps. People work in schools, sports clubs, com- is a good turn out for our big event of the develop interests, or to feel good about This wasn’t just about sport. The munity centres, music and arts venues, in year, the Christmas Bazaar. oneself and one’s community. It does not Olympic brand was already strong and any area that piques human interest. They However, there is a shortage of involve writing a blank cheque (with hours 2012’s marketing made it stronger. write newsletters, deliver leaflets, run data- volunteers when it comes to running other rather than pounds as the currency); so Thousands wanted to say “I was there”. bases, tend bars, mentor and teach others, events, particularly the Children’s Nearly when you see an event coming up – the The very title used – “gamesmaker” – work on committees, anything that New Sales (twice a year), Quiz Nights, the Daffodil Tea for Senior Citizens, for exam- exuded productivity and contribution. required skills and gives satisfaction. tea parties for senior citizens (twice a ple, an hour or so making sandwiches, or We were told that we would make the My advice? If you have any spare time year), the Macmillan Coffee morning, the coming along to pour out the tea, means a difference between a good enough keep your eyes open for an organisation Summer Picnic ... lot, both to those who enjoy attending Olympics and a great one. We were also that you value and want to be part of. Often, it is the same small number of these events, and those who organise them. told that we would be one of the most Look for activities that would give you people (some of whom are beginning to Willing to help out on occasion? important factors in the overall experience pleasure or satisfaction. If you’re chatty, show their age!) who help out on these Please ring Joanne Lucas on 07709 of both athletes and spectators. We work front of house. If you want to keep occasions. 571777 , Caroline Owens, 020 8853 0948; believed it – and it turned out to be true. your computer skills up, volunteer for a In June, the Westcombe News included a or Marilyn Little, 020 8853 1312 From the beginning, the media played a computer task. And if you need exercise, positive role. We were heroes (and hero- deliver leaflets. The main thing is to have ines). People spoke to us in bus queues. a look, and when you find a fit, put your Trinity Laban’s Prokofiev Festival We benefitted from and contributed to the hand up. he Prokofiev family has had a long- Blackheath where her younger son Oleg, general Olympic feel-good ambiance. Editor: You could do worse than play Tstanding connection with Blackheath resided. This festival features an exhibition Being an Olympic volunteer was not a your part in your local community Halls. Sergei's widow, Lina, lived in of Oleg's paintings and sculpture and hard road to travel. organisation – the Westcombe Society! Blackheath during the 1980s, and his son, Sergei's grandson, Gabriel, hosts a special Oleg, was a supporter of the Halls. club night: Nonclassical Meets Trinity Lina Prokofiev had a rich and colourful Laban @ Blackheath. life. Once an operatic soprano, she loved to There will also be individual recitals recall her encounters with Marlene Dietrich and performances, talks, and an enchanting and Coco Chanel. Abandoned by her hus- shadow puppet theatre production of Peter band, she survived eight brutal years in and the Wolf. A highlight is a lecture by Soviet labour camps, and was released only Simon Morrison, Professor of Music History after Stalin’s death in 1953. She was finally at Princeton and a leading authority on Sergei allowed to emigrate to England in 1974. Prokofiev. Lina Prokofiev spent a lot of time in Please see Page 5, What’s on. Childcare for ages 3 months – 5 years I can see a great nursery

from here In September, the Blackheath Society celebrated a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund with a special exhibition from the Society’s extensive photographic archive If you’re looking for a nursery that will help your child to grow and develop – called the Story of the Heath in Blackheath Halls. The Society also hopes later to choose Zoom Nurseries. create mobile exhibitions of the images of the Heath to be shown in local schools and At Zoom every child enjoys an individual Learning Journey. A record that tracks churches and at the library in Age Exchange in the Village. their daily progress through our fantastic fun-ﬁlled learning environment. Westcombe Park It’s just one of the tools we use to keep our parents up-to-date with their child’s Westcombe park dental practice achievements, as well as their personal, social and emotional development. Treatments Available It’s an important tool, one that helps us ensure that when they leave Zoom to Treatments Available start school, they leave as independent learners and thinkers, ready for the ZoomZoom Tooth Tooth Whitening Whitening challenges ahead. DentalDental Implants Implants With nurseries in Eltham, Hither Green and Blackheath, that between them Invisalign have three Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ judgements, and places available, you don’t Invisalign have to go far to give your child a great start. SmileSmile Makeovers Makeovers

To ﬁnd out more and arrange an informal visit please ToothTooth Colouring Coloured Fillings call Ann Briley, Assistant Childcare Director on Anti-Wrinkle Treatments & Dermal Fillings 020 8318 1133 or email [email protected] Anti-wrinkle Treatments and Dermal Fillers 13 Station13 Station Crescent, Crescent, Westcombe Or visit our website for more details www.zoomnurseries.com WestcombePark, London Park, SE3 London 7EQ SE3 7EQ Tel. 0208 853 3304 Fax: 0208 858 1784 Tel. 0844 375 6996 4 Fax. 0208 858 1784 LocatedWestcombe next to Westcombe News Park TrainOctober Station 2013 Oct2013n.QXD_WN.QXD 23/09/2013 10:50 Page 5

WHAT’S ON

Arts coMMunitY tHeAtre & operA

BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS THE GREENWICH THEATRE Crooms Hill, SOCIETY, St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, Westcombe Society Greenwich, London SE10 8ES 020 8858 7755 Blackheath 4th Thursday of every month, 2.00 for Dates for your diary: Tues 1st - Thurs 3rd Oct. ADVICE FOR THE 2.30. Next meeting: 24th October Rosalind Whyte YOUNG AT HEART Eves 7.30pm Mats, Wed & Mad Tracey from Margate: a look at her wide- Friday 1st November. Quiz Night, Main Thu, 1.30pm £15 Concs £10 Educational groups ranging work and at why Emin faces antagonism. Hall, Mycenae House £8.50 Matinees: All tickets £8.50 Ages: 14+ Non-members £5 on the door. www.artsinblack- Fri 4th - Sat 5th Oct. ROMEO & JULIET heath.org.uk or ring 83187550 Sat. 23rd Nov. Dickensian Christmas Bazaar, Eves 7.30, Sat Mat. 2.30 pm £15 | £12.50 GREENWICH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS Blackheath Girls High School, Mycenae Road Wed 9th - Sun 27th Oct. BARE The Rock Musical SOCIETY King William Court, the University of CANCER RESEARCH LUNCH The next fund- Tues - Sun. 7.30 Sun Mat. 2.30 pm £20 | £15 Greenwich NEXT LECTURE: Mon. 14th October raising luncheon is on Thursday 3rd October at the GREENWICH COMEDY FESTIVAL Sun 3rd titled "The Genius of Stradivari" by Tony Faber. Clarendon Hotel, Blackheath from 12 noon to 2.30pm. Nov. 8.00pm ALEXEI SAYLE £17.50 £12.50 Printing in Blackheath 8852 7873 Non-members £8.00 The cost is £8.50. Our guest is Maria Louisa, Belly THE ALEXANDRA PLAYERS since 1978 BLACKHEATH ART SOCIETY Dancer. Lunches can be booked by telephoning Alexandra Hall, Bramshot Avenue, SE7 7HX Open daily: 10.00am - 5.00pm. Until 1st Wendy on 8265 0335 by Monday 30th Sept. latest. Thurs-Sat Oct. 31 & Nov. 1 & 2 8.00 pm From your ideas or Artwork November: “Impressions of Greenwich and BLACKHEATH SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY The Alexandra Players present GOOD THINGS by we can print at a Blackheath” Blackheath Art Society Exhibition at Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road. Meetings Liz Lochhead. Finding love in a charity shop reasonable cost: Discover Greenwich (upstairs gallery), ORNC, Cutty begin at 7.45pm. Visitors are welcome, and £8 (£7 Concs). Box Office 07867 627 987 • Business cards Sark Gardens, Greenwich SE10. requested to donate £ 3.00 to Society funds. THE PRIORY PLAYERS • Invoices • Letterheads THE STEPHEN LAWRENCE GALLERY Queen Oct 18th Astrobiology Dr Lewis Dartnell from UCL THE ACCRINGTON PALS by Peter Whelan • Books • Brochures Anne Court, ORNC, University of Greenwich Thurs. 10th. - Saturday 12th Oct.at 7.45pm at The Many organic molecules have been detected in space • Forms • Invites Until 24th Oct. ‘And the River Flows’ Progress Hall, Admiral Seymour Road, Eltham, and in meteorites that have landed on Earth. How • Wedding StationEry Inaugural exhibition by Focus Finder members and were they formed? Did they become the precursors SE9 1SL £7.00/£6.00 concs at the box office 07502 photographers Sandra Marques, Jennifer Appiah- of life on Earth (or elsewhere)? 450983 or [email protected] 1a Lizban s t Phillips and Goretti Pereira. Interpretations of what it INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SOCIETY THE SPACE 269 Westferry Road London E14 blackheath, London s e 3 8s s means to live and work in London. 15th October Pieter van der Merwe 'Artists and 3RS 0207 515 7799 Nearest stn: Mudchute (DLR) t el: 020 8853 2268 Mon - Fri 10.00 am - 5.00 pm Sats: 11.00 - 4.00 pm Thames shipyards' Meetings are held at The Old 1st - 5th Oct 7.30 pm PVT WARS 5th Oct 2.00 pm NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM Bakehouse, Bennett Park, SE3 (at the back of Age £13.00 | £10.00 e mail: [email protected] Don’t miss the exhibition of the work of Yinka Exchange Shop. There is no on-site parking – please 12th Oct 7.30 pm GONE WITH THE WIND www.trojanpress.com Shonibare MBE, best known for 'Nelson's Ship in a use the car park behind the station. Meetings start at The East London Chamber Choir perform with a pro- Bottle' which greets visitors to the NMM. Yinka 7.30 and non members are charged £1. gramme of film music £10.00 | £8.00 Shonibare shows off new work in The Queen's House BLACKHEATH BRIDGE CLUB welcomes all 15th Oct - 1st Nov. GRAND GUIGNOL 7.30 pm as part of the NMM’s Contemporary Arts Programme. players to duplicate sessions in Mycenae House Mon. The birth and death of a Montmartre theatre Blackheath Halls Until 23rd Feb. & Thurs. 7.15 pm & on Wed. at 1.15 Tel. 8851 2609 £14.00 | £10 WESTCOMBE WRITERS’ CIRCLE 1st. Thursday PROKOFIEV FESTIVAL cHildren MUSIC each month, 2.30-4.30 at Mycenae House. Ring Joan PROGRAMME: GREENWICH THEATRE Paice on 8305 1652 or Rosemary Gill on 8858 5088 BLACKHEATH HALLS Tel 020 8463 0100 BLACKHEATH FLOWER CLUB Meets third Fri 4th Oct. 6.00 pm TRINITY LABAN SYM- Wed. 30th Oct - Sun 3rd Nov. WE’RE GOING MON 21 OCT 13.10h LETO ENSEMBLE Friday of every month at 1.45 pm at Mycenae House PHONY ORCHESTRA play Rachmaninov ON A BEAR HUNT Ages 2+ Wed-Fri 11.00 am & Free 2.0 pm Sat & Sun. 10.00 am, 12.30 and 3.00 pm BLACKHEATH & GREENWICH WOMEN’S Symphonic Dances, Op 45 FREE SAT 2nd Nov. COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS 6.00 pm INSTITUTE: First Wednesday of every month at MEANTIME JAZZ 7th, 14th & 21st Oct. 7.00 pm WED 23 OCT 18.00h CHAMBER MUSIC £7.00 adult, £5.00 children Ages 6+ 7.30 pm at Sunfields Methodist Church, Old Dover BLACKHEATH HALLS ORCHESTRA £5 BLACKHEATH HALLS Road, SE3 8SJ [email protected] REHEARSALS 6, 13, 27 Oct.; 3, 10 Nov, 2:30pm - WED 23 OCT 20.00h LECTURE BY Sat 12th Oct. 3.0 pm Recital room. OLD GREENWICH MERIDIAN CHOIR (formerly 5:30pm, Sun. 17 Nov. 2.00 pm - 5.00pm SIMON MORRISON: THE LOVE AND Subscription: £57 | concs. £51.00 McDONALD & THE THREE PIGS A comical SECOND CHANCE CHOIR) If you are interested WARS OF LINA PROKOFIEV. BLACKHEATH GOES GOSPEL REHEARSALS version of the 3 pigs with mime, participation, and in joining the choir as a regular member, (rehearsals £10 (includes a glass of wine) are Thursday evenings during term time), contact Come and join our Blackheath Halls Gospel Choir. a big book. Ages 4 - 9. Tickets: £7.00 FRI 25 OCT 13.05h Piano sonataa PETER AND THE WOLF Saturday 26 October | Jean Valsler at 0208 8527548 or email brook- No previous experience necessary. Rehearsals: 3pm | Recital Room Ages: 4+ [email protected] Or Susanna Gadd at Mondays 7, 14, 21, 28 October; 4 Nov. 7:30pm - The Chapel, ORNC Admission free WOODLANDS FARM 331 Shooters Hill. Tel. 36457596 or email [email protected]. 9:30pm Performance: Fri. 8th Nov. 0208 319 8900 HALF-TERM EVENTS: LIVE JAZZ - AT MYCENAE HOUSE Subscription: £57 | £51 conc Wed. 30th Oct. Tremendous Trees Any time from Candlelit jazz, special featured guest each month. 1.00 pm -3 .00 pm Free! Learn about trees, and Occurs on the second Friday each month. Bar & Food Monday Lunchtime Recitals SPECTRUM collect some seeds for our tree nursery. available. 8pm. £10/ £8 Thurs. 31st Oct. Horrible Hallowee: Enjoy a ENGLISH FOLK MUSIC 9.00 pm every The Friends of Blackheath Halls fundraising Painters and Decorators Tuesday at the Lord Hood pub, Creek Road; main- spooky evening 6pm-8pm £2.50 per child. recitals in the Recital Room and start Interior/Exterior Wear fancy dress and make a lantern before we go stream jazz every Thursday. at 1.10pm. A light lunch is available prior on a night walk Booking is essential: 8319 8900. BLACKHEATH SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY No job too Small Fri. 1st Nov. Super scarecrows 1.00 pm-3pm to the recital. Admission is free with a retiring Friday lectures at 7.45pm Mycenae house, 90 Clean and Reliable £2 per child Drop in anytime between 1-3pm Mycenae road, SE3 7SE Visitors are welcome at donation to Blackheath Halls. SE LONDON DADS GROUP DADS ALERT: Mon. 7th Oct. Jenna sherry violin all meetings, and are requested to donate £3 to the Free Estimates Regular stay-and-play for dads and children under Society. Next meeting: Oct 18 Astrobiology Anyssa Neumann pianist five @ Sherington Children's Centre, 14 Dr Lewis Dartnell, University College, London Mon 21st Oct Leto Ensemble 30 Years Experience Sherington Road every Wednesday from 9:30 - Many organic molecules exist in space; how did Mon. 28th Oct. Bobby Chen piano 11:30am. Contact: www.SELondonDads.org.uk or they probably contribute to life on earth? Mon. 4th Nov. Rika Zayasu piano email: [email protected] Call 020 8853 2759 NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM BLACKHEATH & GREENWICH UNITED Mon 11th Nov. Olga Stezhko piano or 07950815412 School holidays 28th Oct - 21st Nov. Come and NATIONS ASSOCIATION Mon. 2nd Dec. Rie Kosaka voice and harp explore “Nelson, Navy, Nation” Wide range of is holding an International Art Auction in Mon. 9th Dec. Linos Piano Trio activities. Supported by ArtFund. the hall of Mycenae House on Saturday 16th November. Pictures from five continents to be auctioned, plus a “silent auction” of smaller items. Viewing 1.30, auction starts 2.00 pm. locAl councillors THE POINTER SCHOOL Entrance by catalogue £4.00 includes free drink. Lucky numbers on catalogue to be drawn at Labour: “Doubles in size” 4.00 pm. In aid of refugees in Middle East. Cllr. Alex Grant Tel. 8855 7292 E-mail • First Class Examination Results BLACKHEATH QUAKERS: 50 YEARS [email protected] • Organic Food FREE TALKS Fridays 7.30 Quaker Meeting House, Surgeries: 1st. Friday of each • Breakfast Club & After School Care Lawn Terrace, SE3 9LL Booking: month, 7.00 - 8.00 pm, [email protected] or 07582 729 185 Mycenae House; • Christian Evangelical in outlook Fri. Sept.20th. Peace & Reconciliation 3rd. Saturday of each month, • Numerous Extra-Curricular Clubs TERRY WAITE Conversations with Idi Amin, 3.30-4.30 pm, • Large variety of outdoor and PE activities Revolutionary Guards, General Gaddafi, Hezbollah St James Church Hall, • 3 languages taught Fri.Oct. 18th. Affluent city, austere times Kidbrooke Park Rd. JUDITH MORAN: Quaker Social Action Conservative: Londoners struggling on low incomes Cllr. Geoff Brighty Fri. Nov. 15th. Drone warfare: convenient killing? Tel. 8921 5663 (Town Hall) Learning is fun MARY DOBBING researcher DW, UK or 8858 9731 (Home) OFSTED: OUTSTANDING IN ALL AREAS St Olave’s is a Prep School in geoffrey.brighty@ greenwich.gov.uk New Eltham for boys and girls

aged 3-11 years Cllr. Alex Wilson Tel. 07783 611607 ! Broad, child-centred curriculum Email: alex.wilson@ greenwich.gov.uk ! Excellent results in the 11+ Surgery: 1st Monday of the selection month 6 - 7.00 pm

! Clubs, outings and residential Blackheath Library, trips Old Dover Rd. ! Excellent pastoral care Check Out Our NEW Website: wristworthheating.weebly.com

! Small classes ! Specialist staff for PE, IT,Music, French and Drama

! Sibling fee reduction ! Before and after school care Miles Campbell Te l : 020 8294 8930 Clockmaker • Greenwich, London www.stolaves.org.uk Repairs and house calls undertaken 020 8293 1331 0208 331 0201! www.milescampbell.co.uk The Pointer School |19 Stratheden Road | Blackheath | London SE3 7TH and also at 37 Shooters Hill Road | Blackheath | London SE3 7HS (Nursery & Reception) email: [email protected] Website: www.pointers-school.co.uk

Westcombe News October 2013 5

Size! 10 x 4cm Font ! Baskerville

Any queries or resizing please contact Miles Campbell

Traditional clockmaking • Designed, created and ﬁnished by hand.

Miles Campbell Clockmaking - 0208 331 0201 - [email protected] SFSA Unit 4 No.40, Mellish Industrial Estate, Warspite Road, London SE18 5NR Oct2013n.QXD_WN.QXD 23/09/2013 10:50 Page 6

FEATURES Blackheath Halls Art exhibition: BELOW: All Aboard! Cristiana Angelini Passing Clouds 2 (Oil) STORM SMITH-SUCKOO and SUZY COOPER of John ristiana Angelini is Cprimarily a land- Roan describe their experiences on the Tall Ships Regatta scape and still life artist, her favourite mediums being oil and pastel. Her traditional techniques were developed during her training at the School of Art in Carrara, Florence where she attained a Diploma in Fine Art and Art History. After moving to England in the sixties, she was overwhelmed with love for the lush, green English country- side and her passion for painting landscape began. “Looking back on my days as a student, I remember the incredulity we all shared on seeing black and white prints of Constable trees, so high they seemed to touch the clouds. I count myself fortunate to witness how right he was.” Over the years Cristiana’s paintings have been exhibited widely and have enjoyed much success. Her paintings have been accepted at the Royal Academy, Whitechapel Gallery and the Twentieth Century Art Fair. In 1990 her work was awarded first prize in The Laing Collection Exhibition for London and the South East and in 1995, her work was selected for inclusion in the world-renowned Bridgeman Art Library collection. Cristiana’s exhibition runs from 3rd - 28th October in the Cafe Bar of Blackheath Halls. Open 10.00 am – 5.00 pm Also still on display until November 1st: 10.00 am to 5pm. “Impressions of Greenwich and Brian Aldrich Photography Blackheath”: Blackheath Art Society Exhibition at Discover Greenwich (upstairs gallery), Cutty Sark Gardens, Greenwich SE10. This annual exhibition gets better every year! Storm and Suzy proudly announcing the Tall Ships Race from Falmouth to the Isle of Wight in 2014. Also on board: Cllr Peter Brooks, and waving the flag of Cornwall, Malcolm Bell, Head of Visit Cornwall All change for the Second Chance Choir e both sail at a local sailing centre people into the sport of sailing – and Wcalled The AHOY centre in also to take part in the next tall ship he Second Chance Choir has been various ensembles for over a decade, Deptford – a local sailing charity which regatta alongside the two of us. We will Trenamed the Greenwich Meridian including the Royal Academy of Music has its doors open to all. be speaking to young people all over Choir. The choir’s musical director, Chamber Choir and Trinity College of We are part of the centre’s youth sail- Greenwich with the aim of having 50% Virginia Rushton, has left to follow new Music Chamber Choir, among others. ing scheme and have enjoyed taking part of the crew on the 40 ships under the age interests in North Yorkshire. Richard Harker, a freelance choral for the last seven years. The Royal of 25. With this in mind, Greenwich Virginia has led the choir through ups conductor and accompanist, is musical Borough of Greenwich offered the hopes to engage lots of young people for and downs and thick and thin for nine director of Landmark Sound and Teatime charity two ambassadorial roles for the this excellent opportunity which we years. Many members of the choir have Opera and assistant conductor of tall ships race which finishes in the would like to share with others. appreciated her kindness and empathy in Dulwich Chamber Choir. He is also times of personal crisis, and she will be chorus master for Harrow Opera. Royal Borough late summer 2014. Press Launch very sorely missed. Under Hilary’s direction the choir will We were involved in the ‘One Year to The new musical director will be embark on a new, very varied repertoire, Tall Ship Go’ celebrations which took place in Hilary Campbell, assisted by Richard which will include traditional folk songs, As a part of this role we took part in a Woolwich and Greenwich at the start of Harker. world music, the works of some famous voyage where we would crew on board September, with nine tall ships running Hilary is an experienced and accom- classical composers, and much more. the beautiful tall ship Astrid. We started passenger voyages from Woolwich to plished choral conductor and performer, the voyage in Southampton on 14 July Greenwich or Tower Bridge. This was a who has appeared on television and been If you are interested in joining the choir and from there we enjoyed a whole 10 great event, finishing with fireworks heard on the radio. Recent solo perform- as a regular member, (rehearsals are on days of crewing on board the Tall Ship. each evening. The press were there to Thursday evenings during term time), please ances include Mozart’s Requiem, Bach’s As part of the crew we learned new cover the celebrations, and also to contact Jean Valsler at 020 8852 7548 or Magnificat, and Haydn’s Nelson Mass skills such as team work, communication publicise the event “Sail Royal email [email protected] under the direction of Sir David and navigation – to name just a few. Greenwich”. It was a great experience Or Susanna Gadd at 36457596 or email Wilcocks. She has been singing with We made our way around the English which finished with a tour of the Cutty [email protected] coast stopping off in lovely resorts like Sark. Weymouth and Penzance. Sadly we had This is a once in a lifetime event and to finish the trip early in Kinsale, on the we would like to thank Royal Greenwich Spoilt for choice south coast of Ireland, as the Astrid and the AHOY Centre for giving us this developed a few engine problems. wonderful opportunity. We cannot wait Dancing is definitely good for you, however old or young. We had a great experience which we till next year and will hopefully see We are lucky to be spoilt for choice in Greenwich. Here’s a selection of what’s on offer: would gladly do again, and we will be some of you there with us. taking part in the Tall Ships regatta next If you are aged 16 or over and would 1 GREENWICH DANCE 3 GREENWICH W. COMMUNITY year which will finish in Greenwich. like to try sailing for the first time on The beautiful 1930s Art Deco Borough CENTRE 141 Greenwich High Road board a magnificent tall ship – for more Hall is the perfect setting for a vintage Flamenco Classes: Local schools afternoon of social dancing. Live music Mondays 7.00 - 9.00pm : Absolute We will be visiting local schools and details including how to register, visit: features a range of styles. A cup of tea Beginners & General Technique centres in the hope of attracting young www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/tallships and a slice of cake is included in the Tuesdays: Children. Beginners, price. No need to book! Improvers & Low Intermediate Saturdays: 19th Oct., 16th Nov., and Call Emma: 8305 6888 The modern architecture of Greenwich 14th Dec. Time: 2.00 - 4.30pm The Borough Hall, Royal Hill, London 4 BLACKHEATH HALLS he annual Greenwich society lecture author of the standard work Modern: the SE10 8RE Price: £8 (£6 concessions) Sequence dancing, quickstep, cha cha is to be given this year by Prof. Alan Modern Movement in Britain and has T Info: 020 8293 9741 cha etc, with Mr Wonderful Dancing. Powers of University College, London. been Chairman of the Twentieth Century Wed 23rd Oct. 2.00 - 4.30 pm Tickets Greenwich always evokes thoughts of Society. 2 AGE EXCHANGE in Blackheath £5 include light refreshments. Phone: Christopher Wren and Inigo Jones, but The Lecture takes place at the National Village. DJ Jeff & Jo’s Boogie Woogie 8305 9300 or 8463 0100 what about 20th Century architects? Maritime Museum lecture hall at 11.00 Waltz foxtrot, quickstep, tango, and ALSO: Our 2013 Lecturer, Alan Powers, is a am on Sunday 3rd November. Tickets more! Come and join in – or just watch, Concert and dance: distinguished architectural and cultural are £10 and include a glass of wine. and enjoy the music. Tango Baile D'Buenos Aires historian who is widely regarded as a They are available from Jackie Hicks £3.00 includes tea, cake, and chat. Sunday 20 Oct, 5.00pm - 6.30pm leading authority on British architecture 60, Greenwich Park Street SE10 9LT Every 3rd Friday, 2.00pm - 4.00pm followed by a social dance till 10.30pm and design in the 20th century. He is the [email protected]

6 Westcombe News October 2013 Oct2013n.QXD_WN.QXD 23/09/2013 10:50 Page 7

Planning applications can be viewed in the library, or at the Woolwich Library on the lower ground floor of the Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington St. They may also be viewed on www. ENVIRONMENT greenwich.gov.uk/planning Locals rally around our Foot Tunnels Ian Blore & Francis Sedgemore Still beautiful . . . he River Thames foot tunnels at Who is responsible for the tunnel deba- TGreenwich and Woolwich owe their cle? Financial supervision of the project existence to that remarkable Victorian was moved from the Homes and working class hero, and son of Poplar, Will Communities Agency to the Greater Crooks: trade unionist, Fabian, London London Authority, but until February of County councillor and later MP for this year City Hall denied that it had any Woolwich. Crooks' vision was of a free responsibility for the tunnels. The GLA passage under the Thames for people com- now admits only that it must “continue to muting to work in the docks and factories monitor the position through regular liai- on the north bank. And not only work; the son with the Borough”. tunnels were ever popular with north bank We hope that this latest action on the residents looking to sample the cultural part of the GLA will speed a resolution to delights of Greenwich. the problem of these one-time glories of In 2013 the pattern laid by Crooks over Greenwich. The work that remains to be a century ago remains. Around a thousand done will no doubt be expensive, but people walk every day, each way, through nowhere near as costly as any of the new One of this year's brood of sparrowhawks raised in Westcombe Park was killed the Greenwich tunnel, many to work in cross-river links currently under considera- on what appeared to be its first day away from the nest. The inexperienced Canary Wharf. At the same time, day tion. Whatever the merits of new river young bird flew into a large window and died instantly from the impact. trippers, some local and crossings, let us The accident happened shortly after two youngsters were observed careering PHOTO: others from further preserve and improve Neville Grant around the trees in Mycenae Gardens, vociferously demanding food from a afield, flock southwards what we have inher- parent. The other youngster was later observed around the area for a few days to enjoy the splendour ited from our vision- until it learned to stop screeching. PHOTO: David Hall of maritime Greenwich. ary forefathers. The Woolwich foot Local people tunnel is less well used, have now taken the Christopher’s column owing in large part to initiative, recently competition from the launching a Friends Moving on… It’s also time to consider bringing in a few Woolwich ferry. Still, it of Greenwich and new varieties – about now, nurseries should be Last year the RHS reminded us filling up with relatively inexpensive small pots is surprising how many Woolwich Foot that Autumn is the traditional, and of all sorts of perennials. people walk the Tunnels group best, time to plant gardens. My favourites over the last year were echi- Woolwich tunnel (FOGWOFT). On Although the subsequent lengthy winter may nacea (in a range of colours - but watch out for following the demise 5th September, more have decimated some newly planted items, they slug attacks) and nepeta (catmint) varieties. The of the docks. The Woolwich tunnel is than 50 people from both sides of the river are right. Autumn is also the best time if you latter is best in full sun and cutting back hard especially appreciated by night workers packed an upstairs meeting room at the 10 need to move plants, and perhaps the only sensi- mid Summer gives more flowers later on. Pale ble time to relocate shrubs. Deciduous shrubs employed in the new transport industries Centre in Greenwich. yellow Nepeta govaniana is an unusual upright can be moved relatively easily once they shed variety, which goes well with agastache and based north of the river in Newham. their leaves and are dormant (usually In 2008, Greenwich Council proposed Action stations! monarda – all of them insect friendly and good November, depending on temperatures), but for cutting. to refurbish both tunnels, and there was There they not only formally established evergreens are trickier. They should be lifted It will soon be bulb planting time and for widespread local enthusiasm for the plan, the FOGWOFT community group, but in slightly earlier, while they are still growing, to me, dwarf iris 'Purple Gem' was a success, flow- given the appalling state of the tunnels and an enthusiastic brainstorming session, with enable them to send out fresh roots in their new ering in January. I also liked unusual varieties of their access points. New lifts, lighting, a strong consensus of opinion between location before the temperature drops the ubiquitous muscari (grape hyacinth) - for cupolas and a thorough clean were all part pedestrian and cyclist users of the tunnels, Water any plant you plan to shift very thor- Valentines Day, 'Cupido' and the two tone M. oughly a day before you lift it, then plant into a of a refurbishment project which received came up with a list of ideas for the group comosum latifolium is easy. hole which has also been soaked. Add some There’s also a yellow, highly scented M. £11.4m funding from the Department of to pursue. slow release fertiliser and water well for several Transport’s Thames Gateway project. At this meeting, industrial historian and comosum ‘Golden fragrance’. All of these will weeks. flower indoors in a cool light spot, best outgoing councillor Dr Mary Mills was by Herbaceous perennials need the same treat- crammed in quantity into a clay pot. Many’s the slip . . . acclamation elected chair of the group, ment but are easier to move or just divide. Happy planting! Work on the tunnels began in 2009. whilst Ian Blore was chosen as secretary, Large clumps may be tough to dig out, though, They were supposed to be ready in time John Phillips treasurer and Dr Francis and its best to replant smaller pieces and discard Christopher Raven for the London Olympics, but it all went Sedgemore press officer. Four other indi- old woody roots. horribly wrong when the pot ran dry, and viduals, including residents of Woolwich contractors Hyder Consulting, Dean & and Poplar, were also elected to the FOG- Dyball Civil Engineering, and Sweett WOFT committee. were dismissed in December 2011. As a first step, FOGWOFT demands There was no attempt by Greenwich that the remaining works be completed to Council to keep the public informed, with the same high standard as that of the south delays being blamed first on “hidden cupola at Greenwich, which is a shining structures”, or “non-drying paint”. There complement to the renovated Cutty Sark has been no response from the council to ship. That said, behind the fine facade of repeated calls for a detailed explanation, the south cupola we are presented with and the legacy today is more of vandalised boarded up stairwells and a still dilapidated gems than rejuvenated heritage. tunnel. The Greenwich tunnel must be For more than a year now no further fixed, and work on the Woolwich Tunnel work has been carried out, and both of the completed, with new lifts installed. new lifts at Greenwich are prone to failure. Join us in FOGWOFT, and help preserve There are no new lifts at Woolwich. the transport heritage of Greenwich. You In October 2012, the Royal Borough of can follow our activities through the web- Greenwich commissioned an inquiry into site www.fogwoft.com, and Twitter feed: the tunnel debacle, but the report of @fogwoft. For information: Ian Blore – inquiry chairman John Wilmoth has yet to email: [email protected] be published, despite repeated calls from Francis Sedgemore – email: local people and other stakeholders. [email protected] Grant Saw Wealth Management Limited INDEPENDENT PERSONAL and CORPORATE FINANCIAL ADVISERS Investments - Pensions - Estate Planning 2 Charlton Road. Blackheath Standard London SE3 7EX (T) 020 3417 9760 email: [email protected] website: www.gswealth.co.uk. HELPING YOU PLAN YOUR FUTURE Grant Saw Wealth Management Ltd. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Westcombe News October 2013 7 Oct2013n.QXD_WN.QXD 23/09/2013 10:50 Page 8

please send ads for the Market place with payment by the 10th day of the preceding month to: Marilyn little, 163, Westcombe Hill, se3 7dp 020 8853 1312 [email protected] ALL classified adverts 30p per word. Please make cheques MARKET PLACE payable to The Westcombe Society FriendlY locAl pluMBer available for free esti- TUITION BUY LOCAL! ACCOMMODATION mates and advice. I am a family man and have always Discounts available on production of your lived in the locality. I pride myself on listening to my sHoW Your coMputer WHo is tHe Boss Good reliABle Host FAMilies wanted for for- Westcombe Society membership card. eign students. For more info. please contact Lynne clients concerns, and taking care that they are satisfied Are you looking for some extra help working with on 01732 822649 or email [email protected] with all aspects of my work. I am fully insured and all of your computer? Need some help with your digital my work is guaranteed. Local references available. photos, online shopping and the jargon? To discuss BlAcKHeAtH villAGe ROOMS FOR HIRE Call today 0777 5439121, or 0203 536 0273. the options, call Paul on 07958 251 448 or email pAres FootWeAr ROOMS FOR HIRE decorAtinG, electrics [email protected] 10% OFF all shoes over £20, excluding sale stock rooMs For Hire For MeetinGs, meditation, Plumbing and Property Maintenance. Established 25 BeGinner GuitAr lessons for all ages by rAFFles desiGner WeAr. music, movement. Quaker Meeting House close to years. References available. Phil McNamara 020 Trinity Guildhall qualified and A level music student. 10% OFF all non-sale goods Blackheath Station. Reasonable rates. Contact Sue 8857 5480, mobile 07814 360862 Call Jack: 07542764527. Email: riGHt AnGle retAil - GiFts 07908 587695 [email protected] declutter & reorganise your home in time for [email protected] 10% OFF special goods plus free delivery Christmas with cost-effective help from Homespace. Function rooM For Hire itAliAn tuition Native Italian teacher offers GreenWicH: Blackheath area, up to 150 people, Bar, disabled See http://www.home-space.biz/ or call Karen on lessons at all levels. Preparation for GCSE, 0844 846 5854 to arrange a free assessment. nortH pole restAurAnt access. Tel 07940 296290 A-LEVELS courses, Grammar, Conversation 12.5% OFF Meals only for two dAvidson plAsterinG And decorAtinG Tel 07788 743371 3d divinG GARDENING services Ceilings repaired or renovated. Artex MAtHs & enGlisH tuition and preparation for GArden MAintenAnce: mowing, weeding, pruning, ceilings skimmed to a smooth finish. Painting and 11+ and independent school selection tests by quali- 10% discount on all scuba diving courses. Offer communal garden contracts, fruit and vegetables, Decorating. Insurance work undertaken. C&G qualified and experienced teacher.marystuition.com Mary excludes scuba diving equipment. gardening tuition, RHS qualified, also domestic cleaning. fied. Small jobs welcome. Free advice and esti- Bauckham 07709 089838 [email protected] GreenWicH coMMunicAtion centre Call John and Rachel 0208 316 0990 / 07746 121510 mates. Phone 8316 0990/07746 121510 enGlisH/priMArY/11-plus tuition All ages at 164 Trafalgar Road: 10% discount on all toM ellis BespoKe cArpentrY Kitchens, welcome. GCSE, A/S-Levels, Common Entrance, Computer Maintenance and Repairs (including Alcove units, bookcases, wardrobes, dressers and HOLIDAYS Primary, etc. Fully qualified, experienced teacher. Laptops!) We are your local friendly independent tables. Happy to quote. 85198947 (m) 07540579027 Call Hellin Halliday BA(Hons), PGCE on 020 8858 computer shop! WHitstABle WeeKends / WeeKs Sea wall house ArcHitecturAl interior desiGn 7704 / 07928 017762 to discuss how I can help. Liz Bull Design specialises in innovative and inspira- HuMBer roAd: between Oyster Warehouse and Harbour. Sleeps 5. MAtHeMAtics tutor For secondary level, BodYWorKZ - tHe Fitness clinic Fantastic views. 8858 6578 or 013 04 367443 tional interior and exterior design. Complete service GCSE and A-Level by qualified teacher, Tom 109 Humber Road.10% OFF all treatments costing nortH YorKsHire Moors The Georgian from concept through to planning permission and McNamara [MMath]. £30 per hour. 07595 348976 or £30 or more except Chiropody; exc.Saturdays. House. Delightful period house in charming completion. Services also include bespoke furniture Email [email protected] Pickering market town. Sleeps 10. http://www. & landscape design. Call for a free consultation. spAnisH tuition One-to-one or small groups, roYAl nepAlese restAurAnt thegeorgianhouse.co.uk/ Tel: 07876 385189 Email: [email protected] all ages and levels, at your home or office. (Station Crescent) 20% OFF meals for two or more Tel. 07739 903752. www.lizbulldesign.com By qualified Latin-American teacher. CLTA Sunday - Thursday. PERSONAL CARE & THERAPY HoMeWorKs Call Miguel 020 8305 0874 or 07910 318513 tHe curious coMB All-round handyman for those DIY’s you have no time for! [email protected] 10% discount on services over £30 Weekdays sports & reMediAl MAssAGe tHerApist General repairs. Painting & Decorating. General Carpentry MulviHill AcAdeMY oF irisH dAnce 8am-10am, 2pm-4pm (excludes retail purchases). For help with Sports Injuries, Back & Neck Pain, and flooring. Flat-pack assembly. Patio and deck cleaning. Adult and Child Irish Dance Classes available in the coriAnder restAurAnt Repetitive Strain Injuries and Posture Problems. Also No job too small. Contact Matthew Barron 07903 388658. Blackheath area. Come along for a fun-all-in-one (Station Crescent) 25% off Sunday to Thursday. help with Endurance Running and Triathlon Training A MAn And A vAn workout. For more information call Rachel on Bookings only! Programs Member of Institute of Sports & Remedial Tel: 020 8858 3889 Mobile: 07885 917842 07707 100521 tHe stAndArd: eXperienced pAinter And decorAtor Massage (LSSMDip) Fully Insured.Home/ Club/ Montessori clAsses for children of all ages. coton & HAMBlin - opticiAns Interior and exterior work, wall papering a speciality. Event Visits. Call Andy 8852 0834 or 07815 118887 Contact Wendy Fidler on 07710 433994 or 5% OFF frames, sunglasses & accessories Free estimates. Fully insured. Friendly and reliable. BlAcKHeAtH Holistic HeAltH service. [email protected] KArAn cHeMist 10% OFF Weds. only counsellinG, AleXAnder tecHniQue,YoGA James Leslie 07973 491264 Email address: [email protected] WANTED MArnells - diY 10% OFF Wednesdays tel: 020 8858 5969 /1991, www.bhhs.selondon.co.uk Well BeAn - HeAltH Goods pilAtes clAsses At MYcenAe House. AndreW FletcHer Painting, Decorating & Tiling MUSICIAN WANTED (any portable instrument) 10% OFF all purchases over £20 (no credit cards) Thursday's 2.00 - 4.00 pm. All levels welcome, mats services. Over 20 years' experience, fully insured. BlAcKHeAtH eYecAre centre provided. Please contact Hilary for further details on References available. Call 07702 094382 to jam with and encourage enthusiastic, partially- 07970 290818 s.s.d Builders ltd. sighted blues harp (harmonica) novice, Simon on 25% off 2nd pair of spectacles. (same prescription. Free sound tHerApY sessions offered by Long established Building & Roofing Company avail- 0208 8589534. Not in conjunction with any other offer. (Complete trainee sound therapist. Pure tones for healing. able for free estimates & advice. ALL works under- glasses start from £49.95 with single vision lens- Emily 07941 929 457 taken, from guttering to Refurbishments. All works es). 5% off contact lens solution and accessories viewed within 24 hours, fully insured & guaranteed. troJAn press 10% OFF all quotations SERVICES & TRADE Call us today on 07931 536533 or 020 8305 1039 r . G.Austin WestcoMBe Hill need Help WitH Your coMputer? Local tech- puBBle plAsterinG Need a plasterer with excel- (Established 1963) A * drivinG scHool £5 discount on the price nician provides home technical support & tuition. No lent references? Work is of high standard. Qualified of one x 2 hour lesson for WS members. C&G. Plastering-Rendering-Plasterboarding - Repairs. job too small, all in your own home. Glenn 84734091 Heating Engineers, tHe Wonder WoMen netWorK siMMonds HAndYMAn Free quotes! Call Alex on 07547 468459 / 0208 465 Offers a 10% discount 5844. [email protected] Property and maintenance services. Electrical, deco- Property Maintenance, cApitAl rooFinG s.s.d pluMBinG And HeAtinG GAS rating, telephones, general repairs. 079 4198 2895 5% discount on any work up to £1000 Tel. 0208 Friendly local plumber available for free estimates and Electrics, Painting, SAFE BlAcKHeAtH And GreenWicH WindoW And 858 5123 Gutter cleAninG Mike Smith 07791 465052 advice. All works undertaken, no job too small, from Decorating, Plumbing, boilers to bathroom suites, all works viewed within 24 GArtel desiGn & construction www.blackheath-window-cleaner.co.uk Central Heating, 5% discount on any work up to £1000 BooKKeeper Starting a new business? Running hours, fully insured and guaranteed. Call today on Tel. 0208 858 5123 an established one? We offer a comprehensive 07931 536533 or 8305 1039 Shower and Bathroom Specialists oldstuFF 10% discount on all products at bookkeeping service, without the jargon. Free up cArpentrY And JoinerY http://www.theoldstuff.co.uk time to run your business. Call: 020 8853 8671 Alcoves, wardrobes, radiator covers & general 2A Hassendean Rd, Blackheath SE3 8TS household woodwork. Showroom: 0208 852 7222 WestcoMBe pArK roAd email: [email protected] Telephone: 0208 8858 7359 t.tA electrics NICEIC approved installer, profes- www.carpentryandinteriors.co.uk Karen Storey of Homespace offers members 10% sional & punctual. Free estimates, pls call Tony on WestcoMBe cleAners I'm a friendly, hard work- [email protected] discount on decluttering & homestaging services 07961 509403 or 020 84887425. ing & organised domestic cleaner. Regular or single 0844 846 5854 www.home-space.biz All WorKs GuArAnteed. www.ttaelectrics .co.uk services. Competitive rates. Additional tasks. I love pAYroll & BooKKeepinG services - Are you my clients to be happy. Phone (020) 8853 8671 ready for RTI? Payroll Bureau from 1 – 150 employ- MArK cHeeseMAn, locAl cArpenter And ees. Monthly or weekly service to suit. Bookkeeping Joiner with 30 years experience. All aspects of SIDCUP PLUMBING also available. Reasonable rates and a friendly, carpentry and construction carried out considerately PLANNING APPLICATIONS knowledgeable service. M: 07946 530053 Email: and to a high standard. Reinstatement of original [email protected] Victorian/Edwardian/Georgian details, ie shutters, For all your heating & (See also http//www.westcombesociety.org/ piAno tuner Prompt friendly service from an expe- skirtings, plinth blocks, picture rails, cornices etc. plumbing needs. rienced, fully qualified tuner technician. For tuning and Bespoke joinery, wardrobes, cupboards, stairs, 69 WESTCOMBE HILL ref 13/2234/PN1 repairs call Jim Kimberley 0208 305 0033 kitchens. Sash windows overhauls. Resin timber From a dripping tap to a new Boiler Priot notification. Construct 4m deep rear MAlcolM tierneY, cArpenter repairs. Please call M: 07767 456131 or install extension to the back addition Specialist in refurbishment, repair and replacement H: 020 8854 4028 of sash windows. 0777 5657371 interior decorAtor & cArpenter Gas Safe Re: 290 Direct to TREE WORKS tAllGABles picture FrAMinG with over 20 years experience. A member of the guild 56 HARDY ROAD ref 13/2237/TC All works undertaken at very reasonable prices. of mastercraftsman. Free quotes & friendly advice on Engineer Contact Emily on 07787 524254, @tallgables or Tall all your decorating requirements. Local references Crown reduce birch by 30% Gables via Facebook available. Tel. Ashley Greaves 8858 2981 Tel. 07557-407-369 tYpinG/secretAriAl/AdMin/BooK KeepinG eXperienced locAl ArcHitect 37 BEACONSFIELD ROAD ref services available – using Microsoft Word + Excel @ offering full range of architectural services, including 13/2238/TC very reasonable rates – please ring to discuss your planning and building regulations applications, tech- www.sidcupplumbing.co.uk Crown reduce purple plum by 20% and requirements. Carol (m) 07790 003 037 nical and construction drawings, full project manage- holly by 25% electriciAn / AlArM enGineer No job too small ment, and site work. Registered with the Architects TMIET registered. Call 0787 9011792 Registration Board. Mob: 07853423130 Wanted - Friendly, Welcoming Host Email: [email protected] c.s. cArpentrY-JoinerY Decorating and all Families building work undertaken. Joseph McNamara Earn £200 + per week! 02088575480, mobile 07947155366 HAve You Got tHe sKills or tiMe For diY? Do you have a spare room in your home? Then turn it or is it all just such an effort! if that’s your problem, i can solve it ! into cash by hosting our friendly, polite Decorating including preparation, painting, wall- foreign students. papering & special finishes. Re- hanging doors and putting up shelving. You'd be required to give breakfast, packed lunch Re-laying floors-lino, wood laminates & ceramics. and dinner. If you live locally or within easy distance domestic Electrical work. of Blackheath Village & Greenwich, Plumbing-taps, showers,radiators and external. please call one of our friendly team on: Garden revival and maintenance if you need help with any of these please call tony: 0208 856 9398 M: 07961 540836 07752 868 834 http://www.tonysdiy.com/ English Elite Homestays. trAined cHiMneY sWeep And stove instAller Fast, friendly Happy to work! Call Anthony on 07772649577 or email: chimney- [email protected]

BLACKHEATH QUAKERS: 50 YEARS FREE TALKS Fridays 7.30 Quaker The Greenworks, 145 Nathan Way, Thamesmead, London, SE28 0AB Meeting House, Lawn Terrace, SE3 0208-858-7211 9LL Booking: ring 07582 729 185, or:

[email protected] Sept.20th. Peace & Reconciliation TERRY WAITE Conversations with Idi Amin, Revolutionary Guards, General Gaddafi, Hezbollah Oct. 18th. Affluent city, austere times JUDITH MORAN: Quaker Social 2 Doors Cars, 5 Door Cars, Transit Connect, Short Wheel Base Transit, Long Wheel Base Transit and Luton with tail lift available. Action Londoners struggling on low £200.00 Security Deposit 100 Miles included per day incomes Liable Excess of Collision Damage up to £500.00 we do offer a wavier Check out our website or call us for a full price list Nov. 15th. Drone warfare: convenient killing? MARY DOBBING: researcher DW UK