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Herne Hill Junction

Herne Hill Junction

SOCIETY EVENTS At Herne Hill United Church Hall, at 7:30 for 7:45pm, unless otherwise stated. Sunday 2 September: “Heritage Trail Part 2” Guided walk by Robert Holden. Meet at Herne Hill Station at 2:00pm. Wednesday 12 September: HERNE HILL JUNCTION “My Life in Show Business, Part 2 - The Santa Years” by Robert Holden Detailed analysis and modelling now been completed for a number of alternative designs Wednesday 10 October: for the Junction. These are: the proposals “Murder by Chloroform? The Trial of recommended by the Project Board (Option Adelaide Bartlett” A); moving the slip road four metres further by Robert Flanagan towards the Junction (Option B); moving the slip road twelve metres further towards the Wednesday 14 November: Junction (Option C); and there being no slip “The Story of ” road, but a left turn only lane for vehicles by Len Reilly, Archives going from Norwood Road into Road Wednesday 12 December: (option D). Silver Anniversary Readings The results of the exercise show that Option D by members of the Society will not improve pedestrian safety and will reduce the capacity of the Junction to handle at present. . The level of vehicle saturation will vehicle flows, leading to longer tail-backs than increase to 117%, leading to greater tail-backs than at present, with all the consequent impact on the environment, pedestrian comfort and safety. Option B will result in a smaller pedestrian island, reducing its capacity to handle crowds people at large events and the scope for high quality landscaping. Less effective site-lines will reduce vehicle and pedestrian safety. And the resulting slip road curvature will require a potentially dangerous ‘negative’ camber or an inconvenient step up for pedestrians going to and from the park. continued on Page 2 1 Junction from Front Page Option C will provide less scope for introducing or improving pedestrian crossings; and inadequate site-lines and reverse road cambers will compromise vehicle safety. The residual small island will neither provide scope for landscaping improvements nor to improve pedestrian access to the Park. Roads will continue to dominate the area. Option A provides the most benefit in terms of improving bus flows, pedestrian and cycle safety and the scope for landscaping the Junction and Park entrance. It offers the best site-lines for drivers and pedestrians; facilitates the introduction of pedestrian crossings at all roads; enables the slip road to be set at the same level as the pavements (shown to slow vehicle speeds and improve pedestrian safety); gives a pedestrian island that can be landscaped in a character sympathetic to the park thus providing an attractive ‘bridge’ between the junction and park. Its simple shape and clutter free design allow for free movement with optimum visibility for both vulnerable road users and vehicles. CLEANER, GREENER SAFER Option A gives the best balance between the Under ’s ‘Cleaner, Greener, Safer’ needs of Park users, pedestrian, cyclist and programme, individuals and groups can make vehicle safety, bus priority and accessibility, proposals to their Community Council, bidding for the environment, regeneration, local residents money to fund projects that will help make and businesses. It has received overwhelming environmental and safety improvements to their backing from Herne Hill residents and traders. local area. Our MP, Tessa Jowell, our GLA member Val In each of the past two years, we have put in a bid Shawcross, all Herne Hill Ward Councillors, to repaint and refurbish the Croxted Road railway Village Ward Councillors as well as traders bridge. Unfortunately we were not successful, representatives have expressed their strong partly because the cost of the project would have support. taken too large a slice of the available budget. Our bid for 2007 is more modest. We have proposed This is the best chance for years to get the that Dulwich Community Council agree the funds Junction improved, and to reverse the to erect a Community Notice Board in Half Moon continuing decline of Herne Hill centre and Lane. The cost would be up to £2,500 for a good Norwood Road. If we lose this opportunity, the quality design that fits in with the character of the Junction will stay unchanged for many more area. years – a blight on Herne Hill, its residents and A community notice board would be of great its businesses. benefit, both to the Society and to the many other Next Steps local organisations in Herne Hill. It would help us Detailed landscape design is well advanced. The all to reach a wider public, promoting greater planning application for the changes to the park community awareness and involvement, and boundary will be submitted to Lambeth Planning increasing support for activities and initiatives designed to improve the quality of life of Herne very soon. Some details have still to be resolved, Hill residents. including the scope for straight-across as opposed to staggered pedestrian crossings (we are strongly in Decisions on applications are likely to be favour of the former); negotiations over widening announced in October. Brockwell passage; and discussions with We would welcome ideas for Society bids for Buses over eliminating bus movements in side 2008. streets. 2 THE HERNE HILL SOCIETY This is a responsible and time consuming job, but one that has had some very good results. Both Councils AT TWENTY FIVE have often responded positively to our objections and suggestions. The Herne Hill Society was founded in March 1982 at a meeting called by Patricia Jenkyns. Monica There are many active community organisations in Wood, Jane Fenwick, and Father Clements were Herne Hill that we have helped to found - Friends of among the members of the first committee, while Bill , Friends of and the Newton was elected the first chair. Herne Hill Forum. We have been active within the Lambeth Local History Forum and, in recent years, The first edition of the Newsletter, in April 1982, maintained a presence at the Dulwich Community included an article on changes to the traffic flow in Council. . What’s new! In those days producing the newsletter was a scissors and glue job, in great Another of our achievements has been to produce contrast to the computer technology of today. But several winners in the Brain of Lambeth competition, throughout it has been lively and informative and, for including the late Lucien Prechner and our current those unable to get to the meetings, the way to keep in vice chair, John Brunton. touch with the society. In 2002 we became a Registered Charity. This has The first committee meetings were held in committee produced various advantages, including a useful members’ homes; but the monthly meetings were income from claiming Gift Aid. Our website enables held in the Catholic Church in Polar Walk. In internet users to browse for local news, join the September 1991 the public meetings moved to the society, ask questions and order publications. United Church Hall where they continue today. Peter In our twenty fifth anniversary year, we have been Layton, the local glassblower, Sidney Carter the poet looking back to show how we have grown and and musician, and Sam Wanamaker of the Globe developed into the active society we are today. This is Theatre, have been among many fascinating speakers thanks entirely to the voluntary hard work and who have entertained and informed us over the years. commitment of committee members over the years, Our first publications were local history pamphlets which has led to our respected and influential position written by Patricia Jenkyns, complemented by local in the community today. New members are always postcards and a series of line drawings including of welcome and there is always space on the committee the Carnegie Library and Sunray Gardens. In 2003 for people with new ideas and drive. Do get in touch. the History Group produced the Herne Hill Heritage Trail, which went on to win the Walter Bor award presented by the London Forum of Civic Societies. In 2006 we published Herne Hill Personalities, launched by Lord Lester of Herne Hill in the Carnegie Library Gallery. The Society’s stand at events such as the Lambeth Country Show is the main outlet for publication sales; but also helps attract new members. Over the years the Society has been involved in many campaigns and projects. In 1982 we were involved in changes to the flow of traffic through the Herne Hill junction; in summer 1997 we campaigned to save the Sorting Office from closure and it remained open until 2007 when, despite our best efforts, it finally shut. In 1998 we hosted a meeting to protest against Lambeth’s proposal to introduce a Controlled Parking Zone around the station. Following a local “no” postal vote, the idea was dropped. It is now being consulted upon again, and the result remains to be seen. In 1999 there was a serious threat to close the Carnegie Library and the Society supported the newly formed Friends of Carnegie Library and their successful campaign to not only keep the library open, but to increase its hours and the services offered within. Over the last twenty five years we have been actively monitoring planning applications and supporting residents in planning matters in both Lambeth and Southwark, as well as supporting conservation issues.

3 MAHATMA GHANDI ESTATE However, no firm decisions appear yet to have been made. The Society will continue to keep a watch on Lambeth has granted temporary planning permission the situation and support local residents to ensure that to re-house some of those vehicles and services from lives are not blighted by inappropriate developments the Council’s environmental fleet, that will be or land use affecting residential areas. displaced from the Shakespeare Road depot. This is to make way for the new Academy to be built on the depot site and planned to open in its permanent LAMBETH COUNTRY SHOW buildings in September 2009. Mahatma Ghandi will be used for smaller vehicles and the education bus fleet. This will be for three years to allow the Council to secure a permanent site for all the vehicles from Shakespeare Road. Jonathan Rush, a local resident, led the campaign against earlier proposals to relocate the entire environmental services fleet to Milkwood Road. He has commented: “We are obviously very pleased that the Council has decided not to use the Mahatma Ghandi Estate permanently for its entire fleet of 50 dustcarts. Although having a temporary depot isn't ideal, we think it is a vast improvement on the Council's original plans - and it will also allow the new school on Shakespeare Road to go ahead.” Jonathan also reports that “We have asked Kirby, Paul Bessemer (centre) and Robert Holden Council to consult local people on the management plan for the temporary depot. The aim of this is to outside the Herne Hill Society’s stand at this year’s ensure that promises made about things like avoiding Lambeth Country Show. Paul is the great great unnecessary noise early in the morning or late at night grandson of the famous engineer, inventor and former are kept and that the Council has sensible plans in Herne Hill Resident, Sir Henry Bessemer (1813- place to manage traffic and parking by employees at 1898). He is currently researching and writing a the depot.” book on his illustrious great great grandfather. There remains the problem of finding a permanent Sir Henry Bessemer is one of the 142 people whose site for the whole fleet. We understand that a suitable biographies are included in the Society’s latest book location in an industrial area may have been found. ‘Herne Hill Personalities’.

4 70TH grafted pictures of the lido in the 1930s and from last year onto the top of the cake - the evening’s events ANNIVERSARY brought past and future together with simple ceremony, informality and colour. Thelma Phelps, thrown into the lido on the first day it opened in 1937, came all the way from Nottingham, at 85 still as sparky as ever. Speeches from the new owners, Fusion Leisure, the Deputy Mayor of Lambeth and BLU chair, Mary Hill, suitably acknowledged the hard work and vision that has saved Brockwell from closure and the fate that has befallen so many other outdoor swimming pools in recent years. Food and drink were served by Casey, part of the duo of Paddy and Casey who had helped to keep Brockwell Lido so alive in the difficult, interim years.

We all thought the day would never come and in a summer which has had more than its share of nasty shocks and surprises, the 70th anniversary of Brockwell Lido on 10th July proved one of the brightest sparks in a season of otherwise unnaturally dank and dismal washouts. Many people have contributed towards the Lido’s survival. But for those involved in the day’s preparations, the main concern was how the weather would treat us. And this time, the gods turned kind. Despite rain either side of the anniversary and threatening dark clouds throughout the day itself, the weather simply refused to rain on As the sun began to set on the happy co-mingling of our parade. local residents, young and old, Brixtonians, Herne Celebrations started early with 50 or so `early birds’ Hillers and many from much further afield, a tiny appropriately gathering at 7am to launch the day wet-suited figure could finally be seen jumping which also saw the publishing of Out of the Blue, the joyously into the deep end, echoing that made by history of Brockwell Park Lido by local historian, Thelma Phelps seventy years ago. `A future Peter Bradley. Olympian’ was how Peter Bradley described the little one’s moment. But, in truth, it was everybody’s moment – a magical climax to a day that celebrated the triumph of optimism and community over resignation and defeat. Carole Woddis

LLOYD’S BANK CLOSURE The branch of Lloyds Bank at 24 Half Moon Lane has now closed permanently. This follows a number of security incidents leading to a decision by the bank that, as there was no scope for taking further meas- ures to protect against attempted robberies, the branch was no longer viable. We have been told by Lloyds that the cash point will also close once the lease on the premises has been given up.

th Over recent years, Herne Hill has lost three banks and July 10 was indeed both a celebration of all that had a building society. We are now left with just the cash gone before and a promise of the future. For whilst point at Sainsbury’s and the Post Office. This is fur- the early part of the day consisted of swims and cake ther evidence of the effects of the area’s decline and cutting – starring two magnificent cakes provided by of the long overdue need for the regeneration that the local baker, Kindred Bakery, who had ingeniously Junction project will help bring about. 5 SCHOOL VOLUNTEERING IN HERNE HILL RSVP (the Retired and Senior Volunteer Programme of Community Service Volunteers) has launched a Schools Volunteering project covering Lambeth, and would like to recruit volunteers for schools in and around Herne Hill. There are four Primary Schools and one Foundation School in Herne Hill, providing education and cultural skills to the children of the area, and contributing in diverse ways to the vitality of the community – to take just one example, children from Lambeth schools were involved in the recent re- opening of the . Schools present a great opportunity for people to give a morning or an afternoon a week as a volunteer, helping with reading, maths or other class-room activities, or in a whole range of other ways. Most volunteers help in primary schools, though volunteers who want to help in secondary schools are very welcome. Volunteers are greatly appreciated by the teachers and – especially – by the children. Individual attention from a volunteer can provide a significant boost to a child’s reading, confidence and willingness to learn. Volunteers are an invaluable assistance to hard-pressed teachers and, of course, the volunteers gain greatly from the experience. Local people in local schools, bringing people together across cultures and generations: everyone wins! Readers interested in volunteering are invited to contact Tony Bell: Tel: 020 7652 4276; e-mail: develop hard-standings over front gardens, where [email protected]. Information about RSVP can be found on its website http://www.csv- they belong to single family dwellings; i.e. houses not rsvp.org.uk/ and the CSV website: http:// subdivided into flats or blocks of flats. However, www.csv.org.uk/. permission may be needed in Conservation Areas. Tony Bell authority has a duty to provide crossovers (sloped or drop kerbs) passing on the full cost to the householder. This is subject to sightlines, PAVING FRONT GARDENS highway safety etc. requirements being met. For crossovers on busier roads, vehicles must be able to There is growing concern about the increasing enter and exit in forward gear. And on classified practice of paving over front gardens. Recent roads, the applicant has to obtain planning consent. proposals for CPZs in Herne Hill may have The Society has objected to a number of such encouraged some people to consider off-street applications, for example on Herne Hill, Herne Hill parking. However, this problem is not confined to Road and Dulwich Road, where we felt that the use of Herne Hill. The London Assembly reported in such crossovers would compromise highway safety. September 2005 that two-thirds of the capital’s front The London Wildlife Trust is conducting a campaign gardens are either partially or wholly covered in hard- to help save London’s gardens – see surfacing, largely to create off-street car parking. www.wildlondon.org.uk for more information. The Gardens make up more than a third of London’s Society also takes very seriously the unjustified loss green space. They provide a vital habitat for many of any green space. Front gardens make a vital animal, bird and plant species. Front gardens make an contribution to our area’s ecology and the quality of invaluable contribution to the quality of the local our streetscapes. It is unfortunate that current street scene, a contribution that is lost if they are planning law allows the loss of front gardens to go on paved over. Paving means that gardens can no longer almost unchecked. And the recent planning White absorb rain-water. The consequent water run-off Paper does not seem to address the issue. As this is a significantly increases local flood risks. And vehicles national problem, we have written to our MP Tessa entering and exiting these parking areas can cause a Jowell asking her to press for positive action from her danger to pedestrians and other road users. Government colleagues. We urge anyone who shares our concerns to do the same. In most cases planning permission is not needed to 6 ‘OUT OF THE BLUE’ The story of how the Lido came to be built, paid for and managed is a tale of negotiation, and sometimes Peter Bradley’s latest book is published by Brockwell conflict, between the LCC and the Metropolitan (later Lido Users (BLU) as part of the festivities marking London) Borough of Lambeth (MBL/ LBL). The th the Lido’s 70 birthday. Subtitled ‘A Celebration of period of the 1930s was of course one of widespread Brockwell Park Lido 1937 - 2007’, it is much more concern for public health and fitness; it was than a simple chronicle of those years. First, we are recognised that open air swimming was very taken right back to the 1890s, when the London beneficial. Many lidos were built in County Council (LCC) agreed to form lakes in the and elsewhere; sadly, few of them survive. The newly opened Brockwell Park. Swimming, with Brockwell Lido has endured many vicissitudes. Its separate times for girls, boys and men (women didn’t glory days, decline and closure, resurgence and get a look in until 1929) soon became a regular and eventual rebuilding and reopening are described with very popular activity. affection and lively style. We learn of the changing bye-laws, regulations and The book is well researched and beautifully developments illustrated. Interspersed with the official history are over the 50 year anecdotes and quotes from the 71 interviews period until the conducted by Peter and the ten-member Oral History lake was finally team, as well as from some of the 873 people who closed to bathers. responded to a 2001 BLU survey. Each chapter The history is by contains a timeline highlighting the key events in the no means dry era covered. In addition, there are useful appendices, (you should copious footnotes and a comprehensive index. excuse the expression); The author obviously spent many hours ploughing among the spicier through LCC and MBL/LBL council minutes as well details is the fact as archive newspapers and image collections. Among that men and boys the books, film and other sources listed, it is generally swam gratifying to see this Society’s Newsletter. Out of the nude. Later Blue tells you everything you ever wanted to know attempts to about the Lido. It is an invaluable resource, an impose ‘morality’ on attire (slips under trunks, full absorbing read and a loving record of the deep costume instead of briefs) were largely resisted or affection in which this special amenity is held. ignored. People power is a running theme. Available from the Herne Hill Society at £6.99 + £1.00 postage.

7 25 YEARS IN HERNE HILL in a national newspaper interview, that they had only turned it down as it was for private housing and if it As one of the founder members of the Society, and a had been social housing it would have been OK. I town planner (although I try to keep that quiet from a think I left for Council soon afterwards! lot of people), I have a particular interest in the local surroundings and in the architecture of the area and in I can't remember what line the Society took then, particular what new buildings have been built and but it was very active against another of what has been saved or kept. I have lived in Herne Lambeth's proposals in the 1980s to put a running Hill for a year longer than the Society has been in track in Brockwell Park. There was a lot of existence. This is a personal recollection of some of opposition to this and the case ended up in the the changes in the area and of the issues the Society High Court where it was decided Lambeth had got involved in. acted illegally in not consulting properly. A triumph for local activism, this may have been the Unfortunately I am not a good archivist or a keen spur for the formation of the Friends of photographer so I don’t have a good record of what Brockwell Park, which has since become a very changes have happened. I have relied on my memory active and successful local group. (not quite as good as it was!) and if any readers have any photos or recollections of changes, it would be Going towards from the centre, there are interesting to hear from you and we can perhaps print a couple of old well liked local buildings now some of the contributions in a future edition of the being converted into flats: the conversion of the Newsletter. former Booker bookbinding factory and the former Bon Bonné night club. This is part of a London At least until recently there have been very few major wide trend and we have quite a few other changes to the heart of Herne Hill. Most of the major commercial sites gone the same way. I used to use buildings are still there, although the uses may have the plumbers merchants along Norwood Road, the changed and there have been some bits of infill. I’m bakery in Rosendale Road and we used to get our sure many of you remember the Nat West bank, now milk delivered from the depot in Rosendale Road, the Three Monkeys. But who remembers the florists which may go the same way. But I never did go to (Florence’s?) in part of what is now Sainsbury’s? At the night club! one stage there was a car showroom there, then a furniture showroom and now the supermarket. Of The Society got involved in many of these schemes course the old Post Office has gone and work has at and we like to think had an influence over the final last started on the new development of a shop and result by making well argued cases about over- flats above in what should be a striking modern development and car parking. One of our roles is to building. Just up the hill, there is now a large vacant seek to protect local amenities; and although I like to site where the petrol filling station was, next to the think we are not a 'nimby' organization, we do object now sadly deserted Sorting Office. Quite a large site, to schemes that we think are inappropriate and both likely to get developed for flats and we hope to play a Southwark and Lambeth Councils do take our views large part in influencing what goes on there. into account. We are certainly quite active in making our views known in particular about licensing There have been quite a few changes along Milkwood applications and what we regard as 'unneighbourly' Road over the last 25 years. The industrial units next residential extensions. to the railway have changed that side of the road and the Society did get involved to try to improve the Large parts of Herne Hill are now designated as external appearance and landscaping when they were 'Conservation Areas' where protection against change being built. There has also been some new housing to is greater. There is an argument for extending these replace those destroyed by fire some years ago, the to other streets which give Herne Hill so much of its remodelled open space and the new Michael Tippett character as a late Victorian and Edwardian suburb. School being built down towards Loughborough Who knows, in 25 more years the whole area may be Junction. The school is being designed by the same protected and we might be looking to add the new firm that built the , but the design will be building on the petrol station site to the schedule of different! listed buildings! David Taylor When I joined the committee in 1982, I had just taken a job with Lambeth as a planner. One of the schemes I got involved in a few years later was appearing for RAILTON ROAD PARKING the Council at an appeal about the future of the At last, the traders’ wish for short term ‘shopper’ Shakespeare Road sidings site. The site has been parking at the Herne Hill end of Railton Road looks derelict for a number of years and a rare bee orchid like being realised. The designs have been agreed; had appeared. This led the Council to try to keep the specifications drawn up for contractors to carry out site as an open space and it turned down an the necessary construction work and other application for housing. I defended the Council's case modifications; and the traffic orders made. at the inquiry, only to find my own case undermined Current plans are to introduce the short-term parking by the then Chair of the Planning Committee saying, by mid August. 8 TRANSPORT NEWS HERNE HILL’S Buses LATE NIGHT ECONOMY Route 37: now running to Heath, an extension The Licensing Act 2003 came into force in November from Putney Station. 2005. The aims of the act were to end the previous Route 333: proposed to change the route between outdated licensing regimes and deliver a more stream- and the , to go via lined and unified licensing system. Some of its key and Road to . features are: Route 415: a new route proposed to run between • Flexible opening hours, with the potential for Tulse Hill and Elephant and Castle via Brixton Road up to 24 hour opening, seven days a week, subject to and Road - every 12 minutes consideration of the impact on local residents, busi- Monday to Saturday and every 20 minutes on nesses etc. Sundays and evenings. • A single premises licence covering the supply alcohol, regulated entertainment and late night re- The existing service will close on 22nd December freshment, replacing the nine previous licensing re- 2207 and should reopen by June 2010. Replacement gimes. bus services will operate as follows: • Bus ELC: Gate to New Cross via • Premises licences issued by licensing authori- Evelyn Street and Quays to Water. ties - usually the local authority. • Bus ELR: a loop service running Canada • All applications scrutinised by the police. Lo- Water, , Salter Road, Redriff Road to cal residents and businesses can also make represen- . tations. • Bus ELW: from via Shadwell to Since November 2005, Herne Hill has increasingly . become a venue for late night activities. Many , These services are needed whilst the new bars and restaurants have taken advantage of the Act underground line is being built from to to extend their opening hours. There are shops selling Crystal Palace and West . alcohol 24/7; and some bars can now sell alcohol un- til 4.00am and stay open until 5.00am. New Rail timetables were published in May covering the period until 8th December 2007, and are available Herne Hill is primarily a residential area. However, at local stations. many people now find themselves living near to es- Bill Kirby tablishments offering late night entertainment. Since the expansion of these activities, there has been a marked increase in the disturbance to local residents. Increased parking by visitors to late-night venues, greater traffic volumes, more street litter, shouting in the street, slamming car doors, revving car engines, all disturb and disrupt people who live in nearby streets and who are entitled to the peaceful enjoyment of their homes as well as to a good night’s sleep. Other anti-social activities, such as urinating in front gardens, vomiting onto the pavement and illegal trad- ing, are also a direct result of late night entertainment and sale of alcohol. There are also strong indications of a serious increase in crime levels in Herne Hill that must be linked to the growth of late-night activities and displacement from other areas. It is vital to provide the necessary protection for local Herne Hill residents whose lives are blighted by the disturbance and anti-social activities associated with the behaviour of some of the people who visit places of late night entertainment. It is therefore Herne Hill Society policy to object to any licensing application that will result in an expansion of the area’s late night economy. The Herne Hill Forum shares this view. Its meeting in September will be focusing on this topic - 'What kind of late night Herne Hill do we want?' Watch out for more details.

9 FROM THE HERNE HILL There are excellent alternative locations (the nearby railway arches for instance) that would make a far FORUM CHAIR better location for the park maintenance contractors’ The tipping point has been reached vehicles than valuable green space. In addition there is an area next to the entrance This year, we have reached the point for the first time where the park could be expanded to encompass this in our history on this planet where there are more area. It would then benefit from the lottery funding. people living in cities than in the countryside. It looks The end result is a bigger park, safer and greener like this trend will accelerate. main entrance and the start of the regeneration of We all know about village life, leaving the door Herne Hill. unlocked, knowing all your neighbours and feeling The project that has nearly reached fulfilment? The part of something. In the urban world we are just Brockwell Lido refurbishment of course. A great ex- starting to learn how to create our own communities ample of a local community working in partnership, and the way of behaving. The learning curve is steep an excellent contractor and the Council to produce a and often painful. fantastic result. In our small neck of the woods in Herne Hill we are Giles Gibson struggling to create our identity. The area is changing, sometime for the better but not always. The inrush of new commercial venues licensed until the early hours ROSENDALE ROAD of the morning is drastically changing the area and ambience. We also have a share of establishments RAILWAY BRIDGE that exploit slack enforcement to see how long they The railway bridge in Rosendale Road, near the junc- can get away with bending the rules, or just down- tion with Norwood Road, was Grade II listed in 1981. right flouting them. It doesn’t make for a level play- Plants growing out of the brickwork looked unsightly ing field for the traders who want to work together to and may eventually have damaged the structure. So improve the area. we wrote to Network Rail asking them to clean it up. On the positive side we have two great schemes hope- Within hours of posting the letter and before it can fully about to commence and one that has reached have left the Sorting office, workmen arrived and cut fulfilment. down the vegetation. Such is the power of the Herne Hill Society! The Herne Hill Junction regeneration scheme has been long in the planning with extensive work done by many local residents and traders. It will bring ma- jor changes and improvements to the area, improved areas for traders, better pedestrian and cycle facilities along with a much improved and safer access into the jewel in Lambeth’s Crown – Brockwell Park. The lottery bid for the Park is nearly complete and looks great. It has been the result of much hard work by many local enthusiasts and officers. It will bring Unfortunately they did not touch the buddleia by the the park back up to the level that it should have been tracks and they left all the roots, so the plants have years ago before the ‘managed decline’ and funding begun to grow again. Looks like another letter next cuts took effect. year. Both projects have a common area in the Junction and main park entrance and rely on each other to succeed. As was always envisaged there will be a very small sliver of park cut off to allow for buses and cycles to access round the corner faster. The entire Junction TURN OVER A NEW LEAF... project funding is predicated on being able to improve the time it takes buses to get through the junction Helpers urgently needed for fabulous area. The brief given to the junction planning team opportunity has always been that the take on the park should be to create a WILDLIFE GARDEN at the absolute minimum (if any) that is possible. Carnegie Library No one wants to lose any of the park, hence the care being taken on ensuring that this is uppermost in eve- Novices and visionaries welcomed alike. ryone’s mind. I personally hope that the park size can not just be maintained but expanded. The Norwood Lodge area is possibly going to be earmarked for a Please call Sue Madden 020 7274 7526 park contractors’ depot rather than public parkland.

10 PLANNING AND LICENSING Licensing Saturation Policy: Southwark We submitted views to Southwark on the suggestion 24 Rollscourt Avenue to establish a ‘Saturation Policy’ for a number of We objected to a proposed one-bedroom basement areas in the Borough, including Herne Hill. Our view flat, with glazed balustrade, on the grounds that the is that no decisions relating to Herne Hill should be design and materials of this balustrade look taken without considering the position of the area as a incongruous and out of place in the front of this whole – Lambeth as well as Southwark. We also property. commented that licensing applications would best be Lambeth refused the application. dealt with on case-by-case basis, taking into account 201 Railton Road, SE24 0LU the local impact, rather than the imposition of a one- We objected to a proposed single storey rear size-fits-all policy. extension that would that would give neighbours an Southwark has decided not to proceed with a unacceptable sense of enclosure and, in our view, saturation policy for Herne Hill, but to keep the would breach a number of Lambeth’s planning situation under review. policies. 82 Frankfurt Road Lambeth subsequently permitted the application. The Society objected to a scheme for a roof extension 30 Brantwood Road, SE24 0DJ earlier this year as it was felt to be an inappropriate We objected to a proposal for a mansard roof design. This was however given permission by extension and Juliet balcony on the grounds that it Southwark Council. More recently an application for would be out of keeping with the character of the a lawful development certificate for these works was property, bring a sense of overlooking and intrusion submitted: there is an existing permission for a on neighbours and breach a number of Lambeth’s ground floor extension and if the roof conversion planning policies covering house extensions. works are completed first, they can be carried out The application was later withdrawn; but resubmitted under what is called ‘permitted development rights’. as an application for a Certificate of Lawfulness that It seemed to the Society that the applicant was trying Lambeth agreed to grant. to get too much new development on quite a small house affecting local amenities and we objected to the 128 Railton Road latest application. No decision has yet been made. On the grounds that it would breach Lambeth’s planning policies relating to house extensions, we 119 Herne Hill objected to an application to infill the ‘L’ at the rear The Society has objected to several proposals for this of this property with a single storey extension. property in recent years. These have involved conversion into a number of flats and on occasions Lambeth subsequently refused the application involving a new house in the rear garden. However, a 160 scheme for conversion to five flats did get permission An appeal has been made against Lambeth’s decision two years ago. Works started a few weeks ago, but to refuse an application for a basement level and without the benefit of consent from the Dulwich single/two storey rear extensions. We have written to Estate. A local resident alerted the society to this and the planning inspectorate supporting Lambeth’s we sent in an objection to the Estate. Consent was decision and pointing out the likely negative impact refused as it was felt the number of flats was too on the street scene and on neighbours. many and work stopped. The owner is now 17 Milton Road considering a revised scheme. We objected to an application for a rear extension on Tsolo Restaurant and Jazz Bar the grounds that the proposed second floor roof 49-51, Norwood Road terrace on the second floor would result in an On the grounds that the growth of the late night unacceptable sense of overlooking and loss of privacy economy is already causing serious disturbance to for occupants of neighbouring properties, in both Herne Hill residents, we have objected to an Milton Road and in Shakespeare Road. application that would have allowed this Lambeth subsequently refused the application establishment, at weekends, to sell alcohol until 39 Spenser Road, London SE24 0NS 4.00am and to stay open until 5.00am. The applicants appealed against Lambeth’s refusal of Mufy’s Bar Restaurant permission to retain a single storey rear extension. 113 Dulwich Road We supported Lambeth’s decision on the grounds that Also on the grounds that the growth of the late night the development is overly dominant and out of economy is already causing serious disturbance to character with this and adjoining properties in the Herne Hill residents, we have objected to an Poet’s Corner Conservation Area; and use of application that would have allowed this extension’s flat roof as a terrace would result in establishment serve alcohol to 2.00am seven days a disturbance, overlooking and loss of privacy to week; and open to 2.00am (3.00am Saturday and neighbours. Sunday). The Planning Inspector allowed the appeal, subject to the flat roof not being used as a balcony, roof garden or similar. 11 CARNEGIE’S BREATHING SPACE Sunday 9 September at 11:00am - 3:00pm Friends of Brockwell Park: The Friends of Carnegie Library had cause to celebrate this summer, after being awarded a grant of “Big Draw 2007”, a chalk on the path day, this year £9,339. The money, from the Big Lottery Fund’s staged Breathing Places programme, will be used to bring earlier than the October national event in hopes of the library’s back garden into use. A one-year project, better weather. in partnership with Lambeth Libraries Archives & Saturday & Sunday, 15 & 16 September Arts and Lambeth Parks, is under way. It includes London Open House: ground clearance, refurbishment of the back steps and creation of disabled and push-chair access, a secure Free entry to over 600 buildings and sites; an storage area for garden tools, gazebo tent and portable architectural seating, installation of benches, signage and planting. festival with activities celebrating design excellence. Brochure available in public libraries. A launch event was held on 7th July, a lovely hot, sunny day which demonstrated how much a safe, Monday 17 September at 8:00pm secluded, quiet reading space is needed. Speeches by Society: representatives of the Friends, the Library Service and “Dr Barnardo’s” by Jill Moffatt (venue as above) Parks outlined the challenges ahead, the opportunities for people of all ages in the community to get Tuesday 18 September at 7:45pm involved and the importance of wildlife. There was a Sydenham Society: reading of Kipling’s “The Glory of the Garden”; and “Sex and Scandal in Sydenham” by Steve Grindlay locally based author Jay Rayner wished us well. at St Bart’s Church Hall, Westwood Hill Refreshments were served in the Gallery, followed by the usual Saturday activities of the Chess Club and Wednesday 19 September at 7:15pm Reading Group. Lambeth Archives: A competition inviting ideas and suggestions for “An “How to Trace Your Herne Hill House History” by Ideal Library Wildlife Garden” generated much Alan Piper enthusiasm. There is ample scope to take an active at Carnegie Library, 188 Herne Hill Road SE24 part in this project: volunteers are needed for a garden Saturday 6 October at 10:00am-5:00pm group to help with weeding, preparation, planting and Lambeth Archives: tending. Continuing to care for the revitalised garden will help facilitate the library’s wider use, with OPEN DAY “Having a Field Day - Sport in educational activities, storytelling, wildlife Lambeth” observation and monitoring and special events. If you Exhibitions, talks, stalls (including that of HHS) can contribute in any way, please leave your details in Minet Library, Knatchbull Road SE5 the Friends’ tray in the library. Sunday 14 October at 3:00pm JD Society: “Theatres & Cinemas of Peckham” by Richard OTHER SOCIETIES’ EVENTS Norman (Author) Thursday 16 August at 8:00pm at Goose Green Centre, St John’s Church, East Norwood Society: Dulwich Road SE22 “Herne Hill Harriers” by Kevin Kelly Thursday 18 October at 8:00pm at the Phoenix Centre, Westow Street SE19 Norwood Society: Sunday 19 August at 2:00pm “Fitzroy & Darwin” by May Johnson, Croydon Peckham Society: Society at the Phoenix Centre, Westow Street SE19 Peckham & tram route walk (2 hours) Meet at Station Thursday-Saturday, 18 - 20 October at 8:00pm Led by Peter Frost Dulwich Players: Saturday 1 September at 12:00-5:00pm “Our Country’s Good”, by Timberlake Wertenbaker Fete on Peckham Rye Common In 1788, Botany Bay convicts prepare a production of “The Recruiting Officer”. Organised by Friends of Peckham Rye Park at Theatre, Dulwich College Monday 3 September at 8:00pm £6.00 from [email protected] Streatham Society: Sunday 21 October at 2:00pm “London’s Markets, Market Halls & Exchanges” Friends of Brockwell Park: by Dave Perrett Autumn Walk. Meet at the Clock Tower at “Woodlawns”, 16 Leigham Court Road SW16

12 NORWOOD ROAD future. However, local authority Licensing Officers find it difficult to argue against such applications if REGENERATION there are no noise or nuisance complaints from the The stretch of Norwood Road, on the Southwark side, locality. So if your sleep is disturbed by noise or other between the Railway Bridge and Croxted Road has anti-social behaviour, don’t just curse and put your become one of the worst grot-spots in Herne Hill. On fingers in your ears. Take a few moments to call your the boundary between Lambeth and Southwark, Council’s noise line. All these calls are logged and neither Council seems to want to take proper the information used when deciding on any future responsibility for the area. And the split in policing applications to extend late night activities. responsibility between three Community Safety Lambeth noise complaints line: 020 7926 5999 Teams and two Borough Commands means a lack of useable data, coordination and effective action by the Operates Sunday to Thursday: 10pm - 3am; Friday police to tackle crime and anti-social activities. and Saturday: 10pm - 5am There are the usual nuisances of graffiti and pavement Southwark 24/7 noise hotline: 020 7525 5777 chewing gum. But the problems along this stretch are compounded by poor quality pavements, illegal street trading, crime displacement from other areas, FLOOD ALLEVIATION WORK muggings and other criminal behaviour, and illegal activities in the railway arches to the rear. Much of all IN HERNE HILL this results from late night drinking and drunken This autumn, hope to start the behaviour. The result has been a reluctance of people important work (mentioned in Newsletter 99, p6) of to use the shops. This in turn has lead to a down-turn replacing the sewers so that they can accommodate in local trade, urban deprivation and an even more any heavy rainfall as well as their normal contents, hostile environment. and avoid any repeat of flooding. At present they are Fed up with this situation and wanting change, applying for permission from Lambeth Council and Norwood Traders presented a petition to Councillors the Police for the necessary rolling programme of at the July Dulwich Community Council meeting. road closures. I went along to the consultation Led by Harry Niazi from Olley’s, the traders evening on 20th June to find out more. highlighted all the problems affecting not just their In Fawnbrake Avenue, short sections of the road will businesses but the local population too. They called be closed to carry out the works, but I understand it on Southwark to stop ignoring this part of Herne Hill, will have the effect of closing the road to through for the Council to face up to its responsibilities and traffic between October 2007 and February 2008. work with them to help turn this shopping parade into Kestrel Avenue will be similarly closed in sections one that is clean, healthy, prosperous and safe. near the doctors’ surgery, between the junction of Faced with these entirely justifiable concerns, Rollscourt Avenue and Herne Hill. This is planned Councillors claimed that work is going on to address between the middle of February and mid March 2008. the problem and that liaison with Lambeth would be The closure of Gubyon Avenue between Woodquest improved. They also identified some initiatives that, Avenue and Herne Hill will be mid march to mid if put in place, would be a small step towards April. improving the area. A commitment was given to Other roads in the programme are Flaxman, Eastlake, remove all the pavement gum; and there is a plan to Northway, Milbrook, Barrington, Railton (Brixton plant 14 plane trees along the parade and install 12 end) as well as part of Denmark Hill near Ruskin Park hanging baskets. Southwark is also liaising with the and parts of and Tulse Hill. I police to try to introduce a more effective approach to understand that all the work will be finished by the curbing crime and anti-social behaviour. But part of end of 2008. the problem is that much of the anti-social behaviour occurs in the early hours of the morning, when This will clearly have a considerable effect on Community Safety Officers are tucked up in bed. parking and through traffic as the work is done; and also a knock-on effect for nearby roads during this How can the community help? Elsewhere in this time. On the lighter side, it will almost certainly upset Newsletter, there is a report on Herne Hill’s growing the driving schools! However the Society view is that late night economy. We strongly believe that many of this is essential work, and hopefully Thames Water the area’s problems, including those of the Norwood will be able to keep to the timetable. Road shopping parade, stem from the growth of late night activities. As a Society we are totally against For further information, please contact Andrew any more premises being allowed to operate into the Wolfe, project manager on 0845 920 0800 or early hours. We have recently opposed two such [email protected] applications; and will oppose any similar ones in the SN

13 FORMER POST OFFICE SITE UPDATE ON DULWICH Work has now started where the Post Office once COMMUNITY HOSPITAL stood at number 134 Herne Hill. Planning permission local care for local people was granted June 2006 for redevelopment of this Dulwich Community Hospital is an exciting important site. Approval was given for a five storey opportunity to establish a modern community-based building containing seven two bedroom self- facility to improve the health of people in South contained flats on the upper floors, with 179 square Southwark and South-East Lambeth. It will focus on metres of commercial space on the ground floor. This providing responsive health and social care services could be used either for retail, financial/professional in a primary and community setting. services or as a restaurant. The initial business case for Dulwich Community Hospital was approved by Southwark Primary Care Trust Board in March 2007. It is now going through a formal approvals process that we hope will be completed during the summer. On the successful completion of this, details regarding service specification, designs and costs will be finalised and an application submitted to Southwark Council for full planning permission for the community hospital. A final business case will then be developed. The community hospital has been shaped by the There remains uncertainty about the future of the active involvement of local people. We will be other nearby important vacant site, where the filling developing existing services and providing new ones station once stood at 128 Herne Hill. As reported in and will include services such as: the last Newsletter, in May we wrote to the current • A primary care centre staffed by GPs, social owners, Coast & Capital (Portfolio) LLP, asking them workers, health visitors, district nurses and to consider restoring the pedestrian access between counsellors Herne Hill and Milkwood Road, in any future proposals for the site. We are still waiting for a • A community long- term conditions centre, response. supporting patients with long-term conditions such as coronary heart disease and diabetes • Diagnostic services including x-rays, blood DULWICH POT & PLANT tests, ECGs and ultrasound GARDEN • An expanded satellite renal dialysis unit 12B Red Post Hill, SE21 7BX. 020 7733 3697 • A range of intermediate care services • Physical rehabilitation services POTS • Foot health Traditional and Contemporary • Adult therapy and social care services Exterior and Interior Terracotta, Glazed, Polystone, Metal, Ceramic, • Elderly day services Terrazzo, Fibreglass • Musculoskeletal physiotherapy PLANTS • Cardiac rehabilitation Trees, Specimen Shrubs, Grasses, There will also be a café and multi faith space; and a Herbaceous, Perennials, Annuals wellbeing centre (charity or non NHS funded) is COMPOSTS proposed. A permanent exhibition ‘Building the past into our Multipurpose, John Innes, Ericaceous, Organic, future’ is open every weekday at the community Pebbles, Slate, Gravel, Grit, hospital and the latest edition of Dulwich Community GIFTS Hospital News is now available. For further information about Dulwich Community Hospital Vases, Interior pots, Tool sets, Lights, Hats, project please visit Children's Tools and many other Gardening www.dulwichcommunityhospital.nhs.uk, contact Goodies! Wendy Foreman on 020 7525 2245 or write to Wendy at Southwark Health and Social Care, Free local delivery Woodmill Building, Neckinger, London SE16 3QN. Free parking outside North Dulwich Station Wendy Forman 14 HERNE HILL STADIUM site recently revealed , it seems a good time to have produced a history of perhaps Herne Hill’s most John Watts, a life long cyclist and past president of famous site. the Southern Counties Cycling Union, has written a fascinating booklet about our local cycle track, called Well illustrated, the booklet at 70 pages is very good Herne Hill Stadium to , a value at £5 plus 90pp from [email protected] History from 1891 to 2007. (01293 524312). My favourite photo shows a long queue of people trying to get into the already full Perhaps most famous for hosting the Olympic cycling stadium in the 1930’s, all with their bikes in Burbage events in 1948, the Road, all wearing jackets and most with hats. stadium held its DT first meeting in May 1891. There were several other TULSE HILL CPZ tracks in existence This autumn, Lambeth propose to carry out the first or planned, stage of consultations on a proposed CPZ that could including at cover a large slice of Tulse Hill. The CPZ will not Crystal Palace, necessarily include the whole area. Residents’ views and Kennington but a local enthusiast, will influence which streets will be selected. George Hillier, concerned at the quality of the Crystal A ‘Stakeholder Group’ has been set up, on which Palace surface, managed to secure funds for a new John Brunton represents the Society. Subject to the track. This was going to be at but was results of the first and second stage consultations, eventually located on the site in Burbage Road. It was Lambeth’s current plan is to implement the CPZ in built at first with a wood and cork surface but this autumn 2008. was soon replaced by a cement surface: much safer in the wet. The consultation will include some of Herne Hill - the rectangle bounded by Rosendale, Turney, Croxted Athletics was prominent in the early years with world and Norwood Roads, including Hawarden and records being set and good use being made by the Guernsey Groves. Here there is already very severe Herne Hill harriers before they moved their base to parking stress, particularly since Southwark Bec. During the early years of World War 2, introduced a CPZ along Croxted Road. And the 60+ the site was used as a barrage balloon site and in new flats currently being built in the area will only 1942, when the lease was up for renewal, Sainsbury’s increase the parking problems. Many residents will expressed an interest! But the National Cycling Union welcome these proposals. took the site on and a new asphalt surface was laid in 1944. After the success of the Olympics (with Reg Harris winning a silver medal in the 1000m sprint) there were regular meetings but it became more difficult for the NCU and its successor to maintain the track and a new lease was taken on by the LCC in 1960. Control later passed to Southwark council after the abolition of the GLC but for some time use of the facilities had been declining with less interest in track cycling. Nevertheless a new track was laid by 1992 but later financial constraints led to ambitious redevelopment plans being abandoned. At one stage, Dulwich College Estates sought a commercial leisure developer; but that plan fell through and British Cycling currently has a short term lease until 2008. With its future uncertain but with ambitious proposals for a new centre for London cycling on the Olympic 15 A STREATHAM SUFFRAGETTE Leonora, her mother and Diana joined the WSPU in Our May Talk on Leonora Tyson, by Anne Ward 1908 as active members, presiding regularly at meetings in Streatham and Lambeth, and taking part It was 4th March 1912, and most of the shop in demonstrations and deputations. The lot of women windows in lay shattered on the was still hard in pavements. Imagine the public Edwardian times. A shock and outrage - it was woman could be raped, those suffragettes again! The beaten and imprisoned by Women's Social and Political her husband with Union (WSPU) founded by the impunity. He could Pankhurst family in 1903 was divorce her for adultery, at the height of its militancy. but a husband's adultery Their motto was Deeds not was not grounds for Words followed by the cry of divorce. Women were Votes for Women! Worse was fighting both for personal to follow, with an attack on freedoms and for a voice No.10, Downing Street. One in Parliament to bring hundred and twenty women were arrested, among about social reforms in them our local heroine, Leonora Tyson. the areas of women's and children's sweated labour, Leonora was born Leonora Helen Wolff on 13th health, housing and education. Women had started August 1883 in Bradford. Her father Gustav Wolf campaigning for the vote in 1812, when the first was a Doctor of Music of German descent, while her women's suffrage petition was presented to the mother Rosa Ashton was a descendant, 19 Commons by Henry Hunt. In 1867 John Stuart Mill generations removed, of Edward the Third. In 1908 presented the second petition. Various societies were the family, now with six children, moved to live at 37 formed, but nothing came of their efforts, and Drewstead Road, Streatham. The name of Wolf was patience finally exhausted, civil disobedience and dropped, possibly due to anti-German feeling, and the violence became the order of the day. name of Tyson was adopted. Leonora's part in the attack on No. 10 Downing Street By 1901, Rosa Tyson, with Leonora, now aged 17, did not go unnoticed. She was arrested and sentenced sister Diana, 31, and brother Norman aged 15, moved to two month's hard labour "for breaking windows at to 74 Croxted Road. It is not known whether Government offices", the damages being estimated at Leonora's father had left home or died, but the family a few shillings. Holloway's day began at 5.30am and seems to have been financially secure, and kept one included Chapel at 8.30am. Leonora hated it all, the domestic servant. ugliness of the harsh prison clothing, the smell of the

16 unwashed inmates, the poor food, and the stifling lack opposition and ostracism, many enduring physical of air. As a protest against the ‘hard labour’ of her violence and suffering". sentence, she refused to do prison work, and this was DC used as a pretext for withdrawing visiting rights, or "NO STONE UNTURNED" The story of Leonora receiving any letters, food or books from outside. Tyson, a Streatham Suffragette, by Anne Ward. Nevertheless, notes were smuggled in and out, Published by Local History Publications, 316 Green usually in the laundry, and these are now held at the Lane, Streatham, London SW16 3AS Museum of London. Leonora went on hunger strike on Sunday April 14th 1912. She took the shrewd precaution of informing SOUTHWARK AND LAMBETH her doctor and lawyer beforehand, and having them ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY make frequent enquiries as to her health. She was force-fed on the following Wednesday evening. She October 9th: endured her rough treatment with stoicism, but there Kate Sutton - Finds Officer and Community are contemporary accounts of barbaric cruelty to Archaeologist women less well connected. The Community Leonora was released from prison on 8th May and Excavation and Portable Antiquities was given a rousing reception at Streatham Town Hall. She was presented with, a silver medal and a November 13th: dispatch case and bookstand. Leonora plunged again Alastair Douglas - Archaeologist, Pre- into suffragette activities, including a speaking tour of Construct Archaeology Germany (she was bilingual) Recent Excavations at Abbey and a demonstration on attended December 11th: by 5,000 people. Two AGM & PRESIDENTIAL LECTURE processions were organised, Dennis Turner - Archaeologist and Historian with the suffragette colours The Castles of Surrey of green, white and purple prominently displayed. All lectures Tuesdays at 7:30 pm. at Co-Op Leonora was always in Hall, 106 The Cut, Waterloo, SE1 8LN, demand as a speaker on these between Cornwall Road and the . occasions. By October that Light refreshments are served at 7:00. year, there was a split in the leadership of the WSPU Visitors £1.00 towards costs please. when the Pankhursts decided on a new even more militant policy of damaging streetlights, railway carriages, flowerbeds, golf courses and fire bombing letterboxes. The death of Emily Davidson under the hooves of the King's horse at Epsom shocked the nation. Leonora, after a farewell reception, left to take up a position at Anstey Physical Training College in Leicestershire, but by January 1914 she was back in Streatham. Public meetings had now become quite dangerous, with heckling and abuse from organised gangs of youths. Leonora had occasionally to be bundled away for her own safety. With the outbreak of World War One, the WSPU called off their campaign, and women were gradually recruited into the war effort to do men's work. In 1918 women were given limited suffrage, but it was 1928 before they gained full voting rights. Leonora never married, but lived an active life as a public speaker. She travelled to America in 1954, where Christabel Pankhurst lived. Leonora Tyson died from breast cancer in 1959, aged 75, at the home of her niece in East Sheen. A bronze memorial scroll was erected in Victoria Street in 1970 "to commemorate the courage and perseverance of all those men and women who in the long struggle for votes for women, selflessly braved derision, 17 CHILDREN AT DULWICH adopted the motif of children in a landscape setting, which became popular throughout Europe. Artists PICTURE GALLERY such as Angelika Kauffman travelled from the Following an intriguing show of artists’ self-portraits, continent to see these works and were greatly the turns to another sort of influenced by them. human representation. “The Changing Face of In the late 18th century Age of Enlightenment, interest Childhood: British Children’s Portraits & their in children’s portraits spread beyond royal and noble Influence in Europe” shows how depictions of th families to the bourgeoisie; children came to be seen youngsters evolved over the years. Before the 17 as independent characters and were shown against century, paintings of the offspring of aristocrats were landscapes that reflected their personalities, wild, free stiffly posed miniature versions of their parents. Then and full of potential. in the 1630s, Van Dyke portrayed Charles I’s children as lovable, innocent creatures, though within the This is a fascinating show which will charm and established style of courtly representation. delight people of all ages. The exhibition runs from 1 August - 4 November; and the gallery is open From the 1760s, Gainsborough developed a more Tuesdays to Fridays 10:00-5:00; weekends and Bank natural style Holiday Monday 11:00-5:00: £7, £6 seniors, £3 which set new concessions; ‘Friends’ and children free. standards, with well observed Take advantage of the Special Offer: bring this views of article to get 2 for 1 entry. carefree, JD childlike behaviour. AMITY READING CLUBS Using loose Amity Reading Clubs meet twice a week, on Monday brushwork, he evenings 7-9pm and now, on Wednesday afternoons gave a dynamic 2.30-4.30pm at Carnegie Library. Adults are helped notion of to read and write on a one-to-one basis. children in their own We would welcome committed volunteers for the environment. afternoon sessions. The library is warm, the Sir Joshua atmosphere welcoming and quiet, and the students are Reynolds and very grateful for our support. Thomas Please call Caroline Knapp on 020 7274 2443 Lawrence or e-mail: [email protected] 18 RUSKIN PARK CENTENARY FAIR also ‘dressed’ the two Lambeth Park Rangers, Theresa Hoare as nurse Vera , waiting to go th Ruskin Park celebrated her 100 Birthday in February off to nurse in World War 1; and Lara Mifsud- this year, with a concert in St. Saviour’s Church Hall. Bonicci as Lavinia Larkins, ‘the vicar’s sporty However, the main event was an outdoor fair held on daughter’. 23rd June. The Friends’ next project is to convert the stable Music from the newly restored bandstand delighted block into a café/visitor centre. Interested local everyone, and drew people into the park. Performers residents are needed to join a working group to included the Southwark Jazz Band who practice in the progress the plans. church on Wednesdays when we have our open meetings in the hall. There were the usual stalls. The For more information about this project and to join Friends of Ruskin Park sold commemorative mugs the Friends of Ruskin Park, contact membership and bags. The books and other publications on the secretary Louisa on [email protected] or Herne Hill Society stand were popular, and we raised 0207 737 5561 nearly £100, as well as recruiting some new members. SN The highlight for many was BEING PREZ the people who Society Member Dave Gelly is well known as a took up the writer on jazz and as a radio presenter. Dave’s latest invitation to book ‘Being Prez, the Life and Music of Lester dress in one of Young’ has just been published. the fashions from the last Praising Dave’s work, the famous Humphrey hundred years. Littleton said “What a glorious book. I expected from Dave Gelly informed and perceptive commentary on Lester Young’s music. What came as a rich bonus The picture shows (left) our own, our very own, was the warm light Dave has shone through the veil Annie Gelly (as Lady Tumbril, formerly Tillie Stubbs of obscurantism behind which the jazz genius chose “the darling of the music halls”) and Ceres Dandridge to live his life.”. (as Septima Valley, a cousin of , who would have liked to build an orphanage next to Published by Equinox, price £16.99, Dave’s book will King’s College Hospital. Both looked wonderful and be available locally from Dulwich Books, 6 Croxted definitely added some class to the proceedings. Ceres Road.

19 Copy deadline for the Winter ENVIRONMENTAL issue is Friday 19th October 2007. PHONE NOS. Opinions expressed in this Newsletter Lambeth Streetscene (cleansing, rubbish are those of the authors, and not removal, pot holes, abandoned vehicles, graffiti removal etc.) necessarily those of the Editors or the Herne Hill Society Committee. Phone number: 020 7926 9000

Southwark Streetscene (equivalent): Advertising space is available in this Phone number: 020 7525 2000 Newsletter for local businesses at the following rates: Full page £40.00 Half page £25.00 YOUR COUNCILLORS Quarter page £12.50 Herne Hill Ward, Lambeth: Eighth page £ 7.50 Jim Dickson (Lab.) [email protected] (020 7737 1791) Classified (business card) £ 5.00 Kirsty McHugh (Lab.) [email protected] (4 insertions for the price of 3) (020 7924 9038) Full page is standard A4 (297 x 210mm). Becca Thackray (Green) Either you can provide your own artwork [email protected] (07946 219394) c/o Lambeth Town Hall, Brixton Hill, SW2 1RW. or we can help with typesetting, free of charge, and include your logo. Thurlow Park Ward, Lambeth: Please contact: Brenda Jones Irene Kimm (Con.) [email protected] (020 7926 2149) 020 7771- 1409 Clare Whelan (Con.) [email protected] (020 7926 2149) THE HERNE HILL SOCIETY John Whelan [email protected] Committee 2007 - 2008 (020 7926 2149)

Chair Sheila Northover 020 7274 2638 c/o Lambeth Town Hall, Brixton Hill, SW2 1RW. Email: [email protected] Vice Chair John Brunton 020 8678 1757 Village Ward, Southwark: Email: [email protected] Robin Crookshank Hilton (Con.) Secretary Jeff Doorn 020 7274 7008 [email protected] Email: [email protected] (020 8613 6046) Treasurer Rosalind Glover 020 8678 1757 Toby Eckersley (Con.) Email: [email protected] [email protected] Committee Diana Chadney 020 7274 7210 (020 7701 3112) Email: [email protected] Robert Holden 020 8674 5101 Nick Vineall (Con.) [email protected] Email: [email protected] (020 7358 3524) Brenda Jones 020 7771 1409 c/o Town Hall, Peckham Road, London SE5 8UB Bill Kirby 020 7274 0532 Membership Secretary Caroline Knapp 020 7274 2443 Your GLA Member Email: [email protected] David Taylor 020 7733 5031 Valerie Shawcross AM (Lab.) Email: [email protected] [email protected] Colin Wight 020 7733 2573 (020 7983 4407) Email: [email protected] GLA, City Hall, The Queen's Walk, London SE1 2AA Archivist Vacant Newsletter Production John Smallwood 020 7401 3561 Your MP Mobile: 07956 468 466 Email: [email protected] Tessa Jowell MP (Lab.) [email protected] (020 Editorial Address and Membership subscriptions: 8333 1372) Herne Hill Society, PO Box 27845, LONDON SE24 9XA House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA Website address: www.hernehillsociety.org.uk

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