Imagine – we’re Who is the all-time Top tips to keep offering you the chance top Wembley scorer your home safe from to influence the way our at Park? unwanted visitors borough develops Page 8 Page 12 Page 2

Issue 28 - April 2009

yourYour community newspaper from your councilcroydonwww.croydon.gov.uk Wandle Park lands £400,000 jackpot Residents’ vote brings cash bonanza to fund community improvements. The Friends of Wandle – returning The £400,000 brings the Park are jumping for joy surface water to the total funding for the park to at having won £400,000 town for the first time £1.4m, adding to the £1m from the Mayor of in 40 years and bringing funding secured from the to give their favourite open social and environmental Barratt Homes development space a radical makeover. benefits to the area. adjoining the park. And the money comes Restoration of the Mark Thomas, chairman thanks to the fantastic Wandle, a tributary of the Friends of Wandle response of residents to of the Thames, will Park, said: “It’s great to the call for them to vote see the forming of see that all the work that and help bring the much- an adjoining lake. we put into promoting needed funding to Croydon. Other enhancements the potential of our local Wandle Park gained planned for Wandle park has paid off. the second highest number Park include sprucing “We look forward to of votes in London, with up the skate park and working with the council 5,371 people supporting it. playground, improving to make improvements The huge cash injection the gardens and the in the park for everyone, will greatly contribute to addition of public toilets, which will go a significant the council’s long-held allowing people to enjoy way to restoring the park ambition of restoring the longer visits to the park. to its former glory.”

De’borah passes the 1,2,3 test Beautifully written songs delivered music performance competition at with a gorgeously clear voice – that . She reached was how one of the judges of this the final after bagging the singer/ year’s Testing 1,2,3 described the songwriter title, beating the winners performance of winner De’borah. of the hip hop/R’n’B and band The 17-year-old Brit School categories in the earlier heats, to lift student was crowned Croydon’s the top prize. hottest unsigned act when she Report and more pictures: lifted the top prize in the annual pages 20 and 21.

This newspaper is printed on environmentally friendly paper from a sustainable source, and produced at lower cost than the previous Your Croydon magazine. 2 yournews April 2009 | Your Croydon Croydon ‘a world class city of the future’ Hundreds of local people have taken up the offer of letting us know how they feel their borough should develop in the years to come.

by Donna Lightbown residents of all ages and people in our community; taking place on www. Ian Lavis, resident and Croydon Ambassador – backgrounds in recent creating a cleaner, safer imaginecroydon.com “Croydon is a vibrant, The March edition of Your weeks, and the responses environment; and providing or, again, ring or email progressive place with a Croydon, carried news of have been inspiring. a greater range of jobs. us for more information. real sense of purpose. I an ambitious project to As well as thinking This is just a snapshot The events will want the Croydon of the create a long-term vision about what Croydon should of local opinion. Do feature interesting ways future to inspire people. for the borough, called be like in the future, there you agree? Perhaps you for you to have your say, I want to see ‘out there’ Imagine Croydon. are strong views on what disagree and think there such as the Big Brother architecture, more creative Until September, we are residents think are the are other priorities. diary room, How to be a use of open spaces, and asking local people to share biggest challenges facing the Why not tell us what you Millionaire-style voting a real cutting edge to the their ideas with us about how borough now, and what we think? We want to hear from handsets and our Imagine town’s image. Croydon they would like the borough need to start planning for, as many of you as possible, Croydon graffiti wall. has the potential be like to develop – and hundreds of in order to achieve positive as a vision for Croydon will To see what people are Marseille. Dramatic, full you have been doing just that. change in the long term. be meaningful only if it already saying, visit www. of energy and spirit, a The Imagine Croydon This includes preparing reflects what local people imaginecroydon.com little edgy and a truly team has been out and for our ageing population; want to happen in the future. You can even run inspirational place to visit, about, meeting local supporting vulnerable Filling in the Imagine your own visioning event or to live or work in.” Croydon survey should with friends and family. take less than 10 minutes We have created to complete. You can a fun, easy-to-use Trevor Fisher, Croydon resident – download a copy from www. Imagine Croydon toolkit, imaginecroydon.com containing lots of “Croydon has a Or you can send interesting information, really bright, positive future, an email to info@ interactive games, a CD, I think it’s unique. There is imaginecroydon.com or publicity materials and such a wealth of creatve call 020 8407 1329 and a all the information you talent in the borough that form will be posted to you. need to help you have should be celebrated If you would like to your say on the future across Croydon and talk though your ideas, of our borough. Contact beyond. I think Imagine come along to one of the us to order a copy. Croydon is a really visioning events between Whichever way is fantastic idea and I’m now and September. easiest for you, please get looking forward to being We will be posting involved and, together, able to contribute my views Croydon vision: Eliza Ribeiro, founder of the Lives not Knives details of when and we can help shape the to help shape a long-term campaign, sees end of gang culture where these are future of Croydon. vision for the borough.”

yournews 3 yourbusiness 15 specialfeature 8 yourenvironment 16 Take advantage of our yourhealth 10 yoursport 19 competitive advertising rates yourfinances 11 yourheritage 20 FULL HALF QUARTER yourspace 12 yourevents 22 page from £990 page from £444 page from £222 355x259mm 148x259mm 148x127mm yourcommunity 14 yourdiary 23 If you would like your business to benefit from advertising in one of the country’s Editorial team leading community newspapers and would like more information, a copy of our rate card or a booking form, please call: Paula Howell & 020 8760 5644 Editor: Fred Hall Reporter: Alison Cann Reporter: Briony Key Email: yourcroydon@ Email: yourcroydon@ Email: yourcroydon@ croydon.gov.uk croydon.gov.uk croydon.gov.uk The next issue of Your Croydon will be published on Monday, Tel: 020 8760 5644 Tel: 020 8760 5644 Tel: 020 8760 5644 27 April. Commercial advertising is welcome, but inclusion of an advertisement does not indicate council endorsement of any Reporter: Richard Gibbs Reporter: Helen Parrott Advertising: Paula Howell Email: yourcroydon@ Email: yourcroydon@ Email: yourcroydon@ products or services mentioned. croydon.gov.uk croydon.gov.uk croydon.gov.uk Tel: 020 8760 5644 Tel: 020 8760 5644 Tel: 020 8760 5644 This Newspaper is printed on environmentally friendly, Produced by croydondesign the in-house business within Croydon Council. TCF (Totally Chlorine Free) paper, produced from a [email protected] 81499/150M/11 sustainable source. When you have finished with this newspaper please recycle it. www.croydon.gov.uk yournews 3 Royal Croydon ‘a world Traders fined in knife visit Fairfield plays host class city of the future’ sale clampdown to Earl of Wessex. Potential weapons sold to youngsters as test purchases reveal the law is still being flouted.

Two In both cases he was shopkeepers have pleaded allowed to buy the knives guilty to selling knives to without being asked his a schoolboy following an age or for proof of identity. investigation by Croydon The men pleaded Council. guilty in separate cases Apputukan at Croydon Magistrates’ Prince Edward Padmakumar, 42, sold Court and were each fined Pic: Ian Watson, Studio Scotland a utility knife to the £1,000. Guest of honour at a boy at his 7 Days store The successful recent Fairfield concert in Thornton Road. And prosecutions are a result marking two notable 40-year-old Mohammed of a clampdown in illegal anniversaries was Saleh’s Pound Island shop, knife sales by the council HRH Prince Edward, in London Road, allowed and Croydon police, as the Earl of Wessex. him to buy a knife and part of Operation Safe for The concert featured blade set. All. The Croydon-wide the London Mozart The 15-year-old was initiative aims to reduce Potential weapons: knife and blade set sold to 15-year-old Players with Howard a volunteer working the impact of youth people under the age of we were pleased that the sense, and selling potential Shelley, Dame Felicity Lott alongside the council’s violence in the borough. 18. Investigations are courts took such a strong weapons to young people. and Isabelle van Keulen. trading standards officers During the campaign, still ongoing and other line in dealing with these “We intend to continue This year marks who were carrying out a officers carried out 48 prosecutions are expected shop keepers, we were with our programme of both the LMP’s 60th series of test purchases checks across the borough to follow. disappointed to see that underage test purchasing anniversary and its 20th on the borough’s shops in and found 14 shops Alan Phillips, Croydon our checks revealed far too and will not hesitate to year as resident orchestra October and November willing to break the law Council’s trading standards many shops not complying prosecute anyone who of Fairfield and Croydon. last year. and sell knives to young manager, said: “While with the law, or common sells knives to children.” • Full report, next month. Designers’ eye Fairtrade farmers say Art for art’s sake to the future ‘Thanks’ to Croydon Let the written word be your muse – and Four finalists named in international Ghanaian cocoa growers tour capital’s first Fairtrade borough. inspire you to create art of your own. design competition for Wellesley Road. Robert Askey, to express their deep appreciation of Ever read or listened to The competition to when they go on display Croydon’s commitment as a book that you enjoyed transform Wellesley in Croydon Visitor Centre, London’s first FT borough. so much you’ve felt that Road and Park Lane from next to East Croydon The day finished with you’d like to translate a barrier splitting the station, between 23 a public celebration at the story into a picture, a town in half to a people- April and 15 May. the Bible Life Ministries poem or other art form? friendly boulevard has Public responses to Church in West Croydon. If so, Croydon Libraries entered its second stage. the submissions will The farmers’ inspiring are giving you the Four design teams be presented to the story made a real impact opportunity to give vent have been shortlisted and judging panel before on audiences at all the to your creative powers are due to submit their the final selection of the events. – and stand a chance of proposals on 21 April. successful team is made. The culmination of winning a voucher worth They are required to The panel will base Fairtrade Fortnight was a £50 and other prizes. develop an overall concept its decision on good worldwide banana-eating Running under the master plan for the road design and deliverability. record attempt. banner Stories into Art, corridor and to show three It is proposed Fair enough: Cocoa farmers James and Anane The Fairtrade London the competition is open to separate parts in detail. that initial phases of Celebrations of this year’s by the Croydon FT Campaign encouraged as all over the age of 14. One of these – the the project will be Fairtrade Fortnight had a Community Network, many people as possible And it couldn’t be area of Park Lane between implemented during the special edge in Croydon, started with a business to eat a Fairtrade banana simpler – select a library The Queen’s Gardens, next six years, setting as guests of honour were breakfast at Croydon in the 24 hours from noon book that you have found and the design standards for two Ghanaian cocoa College, co-hosted by on Friday 6 March. enjoyable or inspirational police station – will need further public space farmers. Envibe, Croydon Council’s In Croydon a mix of and use the story to create to be designed to provide improvement projects. James Adiyiah and Environmental Business schools, churches, pub- a painting, drawing, a high-quality public The four short listed Anane Mensah were Excellence programme. goers, vegetarian and photograph, five-minute space with improved design teams are: Edward representing a cooperative Then followed talks to food groups took part, as DVD, poem or piece of pedestrian facilities. Cullinan Architects that part owns Divine students from the college, well as a mass banana- writing associated with Croydon residents, (UK), Field Operations Chocolate, and their Trinity School and Coloma eating moment at 11am the subject. visitors and stakeholders (USA), Hawkins visit coincided with Convent Girl’s School. on Saturday, as part of the Stories into Art runs will have an opportunity Brown (UK) and OKRA the company’s tenth In the afternoon, the Croydon FT Community until 8 June. Further to view and comment on Landscape Architects anniversary. farmers met the Mayor Network’s stall in the details are available from the competition designs (The Netherlands). A busy day, hosted of Croydon, Councillor . your local Croydon library. 4 yournews April 2009 | Your Croydon Library Croydon continues to “improve well” books Audit Commission recognises council’s work, saying it offers good value for money. top spot With its highest scores for Croydon is consistently of council housing five years, Croydon has performing at high continues to improve. Croydon’s Central maintained its position standards, and keeps “The council is working Library is the most as a three-star council the council among well with partners to visited in London, that’s improving well. the best-run local regenerate the area with more than a And two of its service authorities in London. and tackle community million visitors a areas have scored a top- The achievement priorities including crime.” year. level four stars – housing comes despite Croydon The commission and adult social care. receiving the rock-bottom also said that Croydon’s The 2007-2008 survey by The council’s level of Government services are responding the Museums & Libraries environmental services, grant support that is effectively to the needs Archive Council, showed Four stars: housing and adult social care get top marks such as transport, well below the level of of diverse communities, 1,051,366 people visited planning and waste, also inflation and that, in real and that more services the borough’s biggest book went up to three stars, terms, is a cut in income. are being made accessible base, which offers much meaning three out of The watchdog says of electronically. more than a simple good seven key service areas the council’s achievements However, it says read. And, as well as being have been rated more in 2008: “The council has that educational the capital’s number highly in 2008 than at any maintained its track record attainment remains one, the Katharine Street time in the past four years. of improving services inconsistent, despite library came a fantastic The latest in priority areas. “The some improvement. fourth when counted comprehensive borough is significantly It also points out that against libraries across the performance assessment cleaner and recycling school exclusions country. from the Audit rates have substantially remain high, and Cabinet member for Commission means increased. The quality attendance levels low.” culture and sport, Steve Hollands, said: “We’re very proud of the fact Croydon Library is the busiest library in London and Gardening on the doorstep the fourth busiest in the country.” Green-fingered town-centre residents don’t have to trek to the out-of-town garden centres – Located in Katharine Street, the Central Library there’s a small horticultural haven on their doorstep. is open from Monday to At this time of year, of St James’s Road and Saturday. amateur gardeners across Sydenham Road is a

Croydon are probably council-run garden centre turning their thoughts to staffed by adults with restocking their flower learning disabilities. Former beds, or considering In addition to Mayoress set which veg they might providing good-quality like to propagate over plants at keen prices, to become the coming months. the Cherry Orchard Those thoughts could Garden Centre gives its next Mayor then turn to where the workers valuable social Busy Heathfield relevant purchases might and work experience. ward member gets be made, and, from there, Cherry Orchard Garden to the dread of a long Centre is open Monday ready to take on drive to some distant DIY to Friday, 9.30am to the role of Croydon’s barn or garden centre. 4pm, and on Saturdays first citizen. But it doesn’t have to in April, May and June The next Mayor of be like that – the answer between 10am and 2pm. Croydon, Councillor could be much closer to For more information, Margaret Mead, already home than they’d realised. call 020 8689 2625 has a good idea of what Situated at the junction and ask for Diana. Well stocked: town-centre spot is ideal for your local gardening needs the job entails. She served as Mayoress when her husband, Councillor Dudley Mead, was Mayor in 1989/90. Arc holds open day Immediately after giving up the chain of office -based charity offering help to those on low she took on a different incomes throws open its doors. set of responsibilities by Losing your job and hand furniture and If you are keen to being elected one of the finding yourself and your reconditioned electrical see what’s on offer, get members for Heathfield family unexpectedly appliances – all for sale at along to Grafton Road, ward in the 1990 election. Waddon, on Friday, 3 After several years having to survive on very favourable prices to shadowing social services benefits – even in the low-income families and April, between 9.30am in opposition, Margaret short term – is not a those on benefits. and 5pm, when Arc will became the cabinet pleasant experience. The skilled team of be holding an open day. member for health But one source of engineers repair and For more information, and adult social care help in Croydon is the fully test all electrical call 020 8662 8002, send when the Conservative Appliance Reuse Centre – appliances. an email to info1@arc- administration regained Arc, for short. All items include a six- croydon.org.uk or control of the council in Arc has a warehouse month warranty and can visit the website at 2006. Fully tested: electrical appliances always popular full of refurbished second- be delivered and installed. www.arc-croydon.org.uk www.croydon.gov.uk yournews 5 Ambassadors to spread the Croydon word Launch of scheme aimed at changing perceptions of Croydon. A new project uniting Crystal Palace supporters of the borough forward Sean Scannell has been launched. was named as one of Croydon Ambassadors the first ambassadors. will spread the message Scannell, 18, who that Croydon is an has made more than up-and-coming area 50 appearances for the which continues to Eagles, confirmed he was attract investment. honoured to be chosen. The launch gave “I’ve lived in Croydon the new ambassadors a all my life and to be chance to have their say chosen as someone who on the future of Croydon young people can look by sitting in the specially up to is great,” he said. designed YouQube. “Hopefully, the In a concept similar programme will help raise to TV’s Big Brother the profile of Croydon and One man and his whacker: specialist tool compacts tarmac into road-surface pothole diary room, participants encourage more talented sat on a comfy chair people into the borough to be interviewed and to live and work.” filmed, with their views Others signed up being used later as part in Croydon range from of Imagine Croydon, celebrated local residents a wider consultation Olympic medallist Gone to pot? exercise undertaken Tasha Danvers and by Croydon Council. athlete Donna Fraser, Ambassador schemes to representatives from have proved successful local businesses, such in helping to rebrand UK as Tony Smith, London towns, and to contribute and south-east director to improving inward of the UK Border Holes refilled investment, employment, Agency – the borough’s culture and lifestyle. largest employer. Briony Key takes a look at the work of one of the council’s pothole teams.

Most were grateful when on their patch. that they will get called requiring a two-day gas main works gritted roads meant they “Once their vehicles away to cover other response, and category 3, Journeys likely to be delayed as contractors are checked, they receive emergencies elsewhere, when the work must be could carry on their daily undertake vital replacement work. routines during February’s their work orders, drawn perhaps two or three done in 20 days, are also cold snap, but once the up from information times a day,” said John. covered by the teams. Traffic disruption is of the gas main in weather improved, the supplied from street Road traffic accidents, But let’s get back likely in the Selsdon the south-eastbound results of putting salt on scene officers, who notify oil spills and fly-tipping to the usual day job. area as work replacing carriageway of Farley the roads and pavements them of where work are all covered by these The teams use 6/10 ageing gas mains is Road from Foxearth Road, came to light – potholes. needs to be done.” locally-based teams millimetre tarmac to scheduled to begin in to Addington Road and The worst weather for The teams are who are required to repair the potholes, using late April/early May. in the north-eastbound 18 years took a serious usually on site by 8am. make the roads safe. a whacker plate (see The main sticking point carriageway of Addington toll on the borough’s There’s no set time for This type of work picture); this ensures the is likely to be the busy Road from Farley Road. roads and created a tarmac is tightly packed junction of Addington For details of the backlog of work that took into the pothole and that Road, Farley Road and works involved, follow extra time – and man The pothole workers’ the repair will last longer. Old Farleigh Road. the roadworks link from power – to sort out. day starts at 7.30am Normally up to 16 Additionally, Old www.croydon.gov.uk or John Algar, team tonnes of 6mm tarmac Farleigh Road, to its call 020 8684 5600. manager, said: “The day is used in a month. By junction with Woodland Questions on the starts at 7.30am, with the lunch; they work their is known as Category contrast, this winter Gardens, will see major progress of the works daily vehicle inspection. breaks out according 1 work, which must be 16 tonnes was used in works taking place. will be fielded by council “We usually employ to their work load. carried out within two just under a week! The complete officers at the AGM three teams, covering the At the end of the hours. How long the programme of works of Selsdon Residents’ north, south or centre day they head back to The calls come into repair lasts depends on will be carried out in five Association on 23 April. of Croydon. After the the Purley Oaks depot, the control room at the the volume of traffic phases, and are expected Before the gas mains snow melted, as many update the supervisor, depot and each vehicle is using the road. to take about eight replacement works begin, as 15 people a day were clear the vans and head equipped with a two-way All staff receive months, during which, Croydon Council will employed up to six days home – but so much can radio to ensure the teams training in health and stretches of road will be be carrying out TfL- a week to catch up on happen in between. can respond urgently. safety, carrying out risk controlled by realignments, funded district centre the additional work. “On average (without They also get called assessments and plant use. temporary signals and improvement works in “The teams work interruptions) each to emergencies during If you know of a one-way traffic. Addington Road that will the same area each day, man can fill as many as the night, so the borough pothole that needs The first phase, lasting bring about improvements becoming familiar with 25 to 30 potholes, but has 24-hour cover. attention, call 020 about eight weeks, will for pedestrians, bus users the roads and pavements there is a strong chance Category 2 call-outs, 8726 7100. see the replacement and cyclists in the area. 6 yournews April 2009 | Your Croydon

Benefits case result delayed Full steam ahead for couple make bid to change guilty plea. Bright future ahead as improvements get under way to make town more accessible for all. After earlier admitting Work that has started be welcomed, although, falsely claiming more with a view to revitalising understandably, there than £100,000 in benefits Coulsdon town centre will be some disruption. between them, David should be completed “It is to be hoped, in and Susan Port’s latest before winter. the present economic appearance in court The aim is to climate, that as a result came with an application enhance the town’s of the improvements for an adjournment. character and to restore the town centre will The couple, of Kuala the busy high street. become more attractive Gardens, Norbury, Distinctive streets to residents and generate appeared at Croydon and spaces will be more business, particularly Crown Court on 23 developed as part of the following the opening February, having engaged plans. These include: of the bypass.” new lawyers, who applied • the gateways – The work will be for a two-week delay important arrival carried out in phases, to on the basis that they and entry points cause the least disturbance wished to change their into the town; to local businesses. pleas to not guilty. • the boulevard – the The scheduled first The Ports were bailed section of Brighton Road stage of the works to return to court on that runs from Lion will be the footways 6 April, when the new Green Road to Chipstead along northern end of pleas may be made. Valley Road and Brighton Road between David Port, 51, forms a link with the Windermere Road and had received disability surrounding green areas; Station Approach Road. benefits after claiming • the street – the This will be followed he was unable to walk, section of Brighton by the central area at the but was caught on video Road that runs from junction of Brighton Road going about unaided Chipstead Valley Road and Chipstead Valley and mowing his lawn. to Windermere Road Road, and then along the Anyone wishing to and is currently the length of the scheme. report a fraud can do so most concentrated After this, the road anonymously by calling shopping area; will be surfaced and the 24-hour Fraud Line, • the centre – the ancillary work carried out. free, on 0800 328 9270. junction of Chipstead Traffic management Valley Road and arrangements are still Brighton Road, to be discussed in detail College top for including the section and there will be advance of pavement in front information of work apprentices of the Red Lion site. programme/closures, Forget Sir Alan Sugar – if Elizabeth Radcliffe, etc, as appropriate. you want an apprentice chair of the Coulsdon Tree planting is look closer to home. East and Coulsdon planned between this It’s official, Croydon West Neighbourhood autumn and next spring, College is now the largest Partnership, said: “The subject to any conflict provider of apprenticeships improvement works are to with public utilities. in south London. Figures for 2007/08, released by the Learning and Skills Council, show that the college provided Time capsule comes to Croydon 11.2% of all available apprenticeships, up 2% Local people get rare opportunity to sample life aboard the flagship of the Tudor fleet. on the previous year. The college has This month sees the collection of artefacts is A wide range of an exceptionally high opening in Croydon of an amazing time capsule, events will accompany Venue: , Nottingham Road, reputation among Hidden Treasures from illustrating the daily life the exhibition including: Haling Park, Croydon CR2 6YT employers in the the Mary Rose – the most of officers and sailors, evening lectures, family area and is currently important celebration of as well as the military activity days, falconry, Dates: 7 April to 7 August 2009 running courses in the 500th anniversary equipment of the ship. archery and jousting Opening times: 10am to 5pm daily mechanical engineering, of Henry VIII’s accession The exhibition will displays and a unique plumbing, heating and to the throne. show more than 200 of concert played on replicas Prices: adults £8.00; families £18.00 (two ventilation, hairdressing, It is being organised the finest artefacts, most of instruments found adults, up to four children); concessions £5; carpentry, information and hosted by South of which have never been on the Mary Rose. groups £6; technology, customer Croydon’s Whitgift School, on public exhibition. And an extensive services, and business and will be held in state- Exhibits will include education programme 50% discount for residents of Croydon. and administration. of-the-art galleries of the clothing, jewellery, for schools is planned. Keen not to be thought school’s conference centre. personal possessions, Hidden Treasures Pre-school children and pre-booked school of as resting on its laurels, The Mary Rose, which money, domestic utensils, from the Mary Rose groups – FREE. sank in July 1545 at the furniture, musical has been made possible the college is considering Ample on-site parking (charges apply). plans to run more courses, Battle of the Solent, was instruments, medical through a partnership and is always ready to a favourite of Henry equipment, navigational between the Mary Rose For more information, visit listen to the needs of VIII, and his flagship. apparatus, weapons of Trust, Whitgift School, www.maryrosehiddentreasures.org businesses, locally and She was raised in warfare, tools, rigging and The or telephone 020 8633 9939. across south London. 1982; and the resulting timbers from the ship. and Croydon Council. www.croydon.gov.uk yournews 7 Good produce, good service...good stalls Vote for your favourite trader at the annual Street Good Stall Awards. There has been a thriving offer the sort of personal, sponsored by Croydon BID The winners will be and popular Surrey Street one-to-one, friendly for the past four. announced by the Deputy Market since it received a service that is disappearing They give shoppers the Mayor of Croydon, royal charter in 1276. in our modern, impersonal chance to say “Thank you” Councillor Susan Winborn, It is a wonderful place world. to the stallholders who are at 10am, on Thursday to pick up everything from The 2009 Good Stall there every day, rain or April 23 – St George’s Day fresh fruit and veg to Awards give regular market shine – and they can all be – in the market. She will household goods, fresh shoppers the opportunity nominated. also present certificates. plants and flowers, to say which stall they Winners will receive The closing date for take-away food and a think should be rewarded a certificate and become nominations is Tuesday wonderful variety of foods for its high standards of eligible for a further Best 14 April. from around the world. customer care and sound Show Award, going to The chances are that knowledge and the stallholder with the Want to vote? To make a you shop in Surrey Street understanding of food best display in each of nomination, complete and Market, even if it’s only on hygiene, safety and trading four categories – Fruit & return the form below, or the odd occasion. standards issues. Vegetables, Other Food, email your nomination to If so, you’ll be aware The awards have been Plants & Flowers, and fiona.woodcock@ that today’s market traders running for 15 years, and Non-Food. croydon.gov.uk Good Stall Awards 2009 I vote for Surrey Street trader: because

Post the completed form to: Fiona Woodcock, Inspector, Licensing Section, Community Services Department, 9th Floor, , Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 3BT.

Major Exhibition comes to Croydon . . .

MARY ROSE HIDDEN TREASURES Life on board Henry VIII’s flagship

7 April – 7 August Whitgift Conference Centre Whitgift School (10am – 5pm daily) Brighton Road Telephone: 020 8633 9939 CR2 6YT www.MaryRoseHiddenTreasures.org 8 specialfeature April 2009 | Your Croydon

Lucky for some – the number of appearances Crystal Palace’s chief 13 executive has made at Wembley. The gridiron man who keeps the eagles flying Richard Gibbs talks to the man from Palace who’s scored more times at Wembley than anyone in the club’s history.

In his two years as a professional footballer, Phil Alexander managed just 19 minutes in the Norwich City first team As well as before being released. Despite captaining football coaching England under-19s, he knows the hurt when courses for all the dreams of youth are ages, we run shattered by being told you’re not quite good social inclusion enough. But, some 25 years programmes. later, he’s still in football, as the chief executive of Crystal Palace, uplifted as the club’s academy conveyor belt nurtures the young talent which promises to see the club through the recession. He said: “We have six or seven youngsters in the first team squad who are being looked on enviously by clubs. “It takes a lot of money to develop a youngster from the age of 10 into the first team but the chairman has continued that famous night’s crowd the teenagers currently keep the club afloat until chameleon-type qualities FACTfive the investment in the will never be matched. lapping up the SE25 Simon Jordan took over in to survive successive academy and it’s reaping But Phil has played to applause. 2000; the new chairman changes of ownership, Phil Car – Jaguar XF, from rewards.” some pretty big audiences The National Football recognised that he had has become a figure of Grange Jaguar, Croydon. And it’s a tactic that’s himself. The biggest was League (NFL) also inherited a pretty shrewd stability at Selhurst. Reading – the Croydon cheering the Selhurst the 75,000 attendance at paved the way for his operator. He’s been chief His passion for Palace Advertiser, but more in faithful. The fans much Wembley when he was rewarding career. Out of executive ever since. is immense. Like so many hope than expectation. prefer the exciting the kicking star of the side season it used his flair Said Phil: “If you’re of the staff – 120 at the Music – Led Zeppelin and uncertain potential of a that beat Barcelona to win for marketing, and it was involved in the sports stadium and the training Luther Vandross local lad breaking into the a world Bowl final. ground and an army of team, over a journeyman Mind you, by this time 500 who arrive on match Best of Croydon – player brought in to eke he had moved on to his He was the kicking star of days – he’s become a fan. the pace of life. We’re out the ebbing years of a second professional sports Ask him about a the biggest town in the side that beat Barcelona career. career – in American favourite player or Europe but not too big It’s happened before – football. experience and he’ll to be impersonal. back in 1979 when Terry As the place kicker for this talent that eventually industry, then absolutely rattle through names Imagine the future Venables’ “team of the the London Monarchs, led to a post with Premier nothing beats playing. and fixtures, although – a real business 80s” were the home-grown he played at Wembley League Swindon Town. “But, if you can’t do the gentlemanly Italian hub with improved side that won promotion 13 times, a lot more than Three years later, in that, then what I’m doing wizard Lombardi and the communications, and the to the top flight, capping anyone else on the Palace 1996, lured is the next best thing. I victorious play-off final Gateway site and station a memorable season staff. him to south London love my job and I couldn’t against West Ham top his completely redeveloped. with the championship- Top scorer by a mile, as sales and marketing think of anything better.” memories. You want a sense of arrival clinching win against his long-distance shooting director. That job entails But as a fixer with that’s appropriate for Burnley in front of 50,000. got him selected by the Noades’ successor, working for Simon Jordan an eye to business coming into somewhere The safety-led ground coaches in the All-World Mark Goldberg, promoted and his brother Dominic opportunities, an special. East Croydon is improvements that helped League team. To this day him to managing to run the commercial and appreciation of Palace’s the gateway to the town. widen the appeal of he gets occasional requests director and then the operational side of the heritage, and an It should be renamed football to women and for autographs, much administrators relied on football club. understanding that the Croydon Central. families means the size of to the astonishment of his calm creativity to help Having developed club has to cement its www.croydon.gov.uk specialfeature 9

Swimming club marking David King, Rebecca milestone birthday with Mulcahy and swimming 50 free lessons coach Chris Hatton The gridiron man who keeps the eagles flying

position in the community, binding contracts. all ages, we run social “We’re Croydon’s club – arguably the biggest in he has become an Growing your own inclusion programmes. and we play an important Croydon. influential figure in many becomes ever more We’ve had a hugely role in the community, “Our two biggest aspects of Croydon’s life. appealing, and working successful study centre something that’s not sponsors, GAC and DCC, He’s a director of even harder is a natural here for more than always picked up in the are based overseas, in Croydon is a Croydon Business and response to difficult times. 10 years, giving local media because it’s not Dubai. enthuses about the However, as well youngsters a chance so sexy.” “One day, though, vibrant place regeneration being lined as helping develop the to learn new skills in Along with the owners, I’d like our shirts to be to live in and up to transform the town. future generation of a different teaching Phil understands Palace’s sponsored by a local He’s delighted to have Palace players, Phil is also environment. impact on the town and company. I’m sure it’ll work in, with been invited to serve involved in driving the “We genuinely believe in international circles: happen.” as an ambassador for strategy that will see the that a football club “Our games get shown Much depends on some fantastic Croydon and to talk up club make an increasingly has a role to play in its live across the world on a Palace being a winning businesses the place. You sense it will big contribution to life in community. It’s not just regular basis. team. Success is measured come naturally at every Croydon. about the Saturday game “That’s why our by where Palace sit in the and some opportunity. The community work and selling tickets. brand is so well known table, and a permanent “If Croydon is pioneered by the club return to the Premier really bright continually talked down over the past decade, a League remains the prospects it’s no wonder it’s looked lot in conjunction with perpetual goal. at so negatively. In fact, the council, has set a Decorating his office for when we it’s a vibrant place to pattern for football and is walls are the reminders live in and work in, with instinctive for a club that of his roots (a team get out of the some fantastic businesses sees its ground as a place photo with Martin recession. and some really bright to play matches first, and O’Neill as a colleague), prospects for when we get a big community centre a and achievements (a out of the recession.” close second. handshake with Tony Blair But for now the “The Trust that has in China during another recession, he concedes, recently been set up ground-breaking move). is a headache. Crowds by Dominic Jordan is a The office window are down. Corporate new vehicle for all the overlooks the Selhurst hospitality has dried community activities that Park pitch, a theatre of up. Income is stretched we do week in, week out. memories offering the and the biggest overhead, “As well as football constant promise of rich the players, are on coaching courses for Back in the day: Phil with London’s Burning star Glen Murphy green shoots. Splashing out for a big birthday One of the borough’s best-known swimming clubs is marking a notable birthday with a great offer for learners.

Croydon Amphibians CASC when he was eight, with CASC when she was Swimming Club, the largest and has progressed through eight. in the borough catering all the competitive squads. Rebecca attends for adults and children In 2004, when just from the age of two and a 11, David swam in the and has qualified to swim half, has helped many to National Championships, regularly at county and conquer a fear of the water an experience he repeated regional level. – and help budding young in 2005 and 2008. Voted club captain in athletes in the sport of their David says that he loves 2008, she said: “CASC is a choice. being a member of CASC: great club. David King: eight years at the borough’s largest swimming club Two of CASC’s bright “The coaching staff are “Being a competitive young hopes are David King incredibly professional, swimmer in the top squad out that CASC caters for milestone, the club is and what could be more and Rebecca Mulcahy. friendly and approachable. requires commitment but swimmers of all abilities, offering 50 local residents a worthwhile than offering Both live, and go to “They’ve all helped me I have lots of friends at and every swimmer is given free swimming lesson. somebody the chance to school, in Croydon, and realise my full potential and the club and I really enjoy the chance to reach their Club secretary Karen learn a skill that might one both started in the teaching I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the training and competing at potential within the club. Parker said: “Janet is a day save their life?” section of CASC when they eight years I’ve been at the galas. But, back to that respected member of To find out more about were learning their strokes. club so far.” “We also have some fun notable anniversary. CASC the club and we wanted this opportunity, and how David, 16, attends Like David, Rebecca social events.” is celebrating the 50th to mark such a special to join CASC, visit the Riddlesdown High School. Mulcahy, is aged 16, and Chief coach Chris birthday of club teaching occasion with a memorable club’s website at www. He started swimming with she, too, started swimming Hatton was keen to point secretary. To mark this and worthwhile gesture – croydonamphibians.com 10 yourhealth April 2009 | Your Croydon

- price swimming lessons for kids to 1/2 work off the Easter egg calories. Get fit, not fat, for Easter Exercise is the healthy option for youngsters over the spring school break.

We’ve set up a whole raft of activities for water babies of all standards.

Burning the calories: these youngsters know the value of exercise – tempered with fun

Leisure centres across the two weeks of fun activity new divers to competent every day of the break. For more information, borough will be running planned for the holiday. swimmers – to get us all But, if you’re looking visit www.fusion- an Easter programme of Easter programme moving.” for a little less structure, lifestyle.com activities and games that planner and swimming Purley Pool will have just go along for the or call the centres on: will give children valuable instructor Angela Logan children’s half-price inflatable fun sessions on exercise and a chance to said: “We’re all looking swimming lessons every Tuesdays and Thursdays enjoy themselves while forward to our chocolate day, while kids who are from noon to 2.00pm. Leisure Centre school’s out. treats, but we also thought good swimmers can have The gym at New 020 8662 9464 Diving for eggs at it was time to get active. a crack at the Rookie Addington will also be Purley Pool South Norwood, or “To that end, we’ve Lifeguard course. welcoming youngsters 020 866 87251 swimming for just £1 at set up a whole raft of Pool who are keen to try out New Addington Pool New Addington or Purley activities for water babies will be staging crash- the professional machines 01689 842553 pools, are tasters of the of all standards – from course swimming lessons at £2 to £3 a session. Keen on better health? Breast screening advice online Health service website offers breast care advice.

More than 150,000 mammogram under the Then walk this way women a year are invited national programme; by the South West London • how to make or alter an A quick visit to your local library, health centre or GP Breast Screening Service appointment; surgery could be the first step to a healthier you. to have a mammogram • general breast awareness as part of the national information; and Walking boots and stout shoes will be to the group. Each is led by two trained screening programme. • answers to frequently the fore throughout April as people take volunteers and graded for difficulty: But women keen to asked questions. advantage of the spring weather and get • grade 1 – flat terrain; learn a little more, from It is illustrated Breast Screening Service, out into the fresh air. the comfort of home, throughout with said: “We’re delighted with • grade 2 – one or two A month-long programme of walks has about what the service photographs of women’s the response that we’ve gentle hills/slopes; been put together by the council’s Active has to offer can log on experiences and there are had to the website from Lifestyles team, and details can be found • grade 3 – a number of hills/slopes, to a website providing links to further sources of local women. in the Walking for Health leaflet. some of which may all sorts of background information. “It meets a need for Walking is free and easy to incorporate be steep. information. Based at St George’s up-to-date, accessible into your daily routine – and joining It’s all very simple – just turn up 15 The site – www. Hospital, Tooting, the information for women a regular walk can be a really sociable minutes before the start of the walk, swlbreastscreening. service has local satellite using the service, or and enjoyable way of increasing the being sure to wear suitable footwear co.uk – includes units in the store, wishing to use the service, opportunities to get out. and clothing. information on: North End, Croydon, and and allows them to There are eight weekday walks at For further information, give the • having a mammogram; in the Parkway Health understand more about present and a Saturday walk on every first Active Lifestyles team a call on 020 8726 • the locality of its six Centre, Parkway, New breast screening. and third Saturday of the month. 6900. screening sites; Addington. “It also enables them All are free and last about an hour, • travel advice; Dr Louise Wilkinson, to contact the service depending on the size and ability of • See ad page 18 • who is eligible to have a director of the SW London more easily.” www.croydon.gov.uk yourfinances 11

Like their parents, young adults across the borough are finding the recession tough going. David Dalgleish looks at the help that is available to them. www.croydoncrunch.org Young feel the pinch It’s not only householders and those with families and mortgages to support that are feeling the effects of the recession.

One group that is often includes redundancy, forgotten when thoughts finding it harder to obtain and media coverage turn work, and managing their to the recession is young finances. people. In addition to this, But, just like some young people are older members of the also affected by the community, youngsters challenges affecting their are reeling from the parents or guardians. rising prices, limited job They reported opportunities and resultant witnessing their parents financial headaches and and other family stresses of the economic members becoming more downturn. stressed and angry as a Previous editions of result of their financial Your Croydon have carried challenges, and that, on advice and information a few occasions, this had for residents experiencing resulted in arguments and challenges brought about domestic violence. by the recession. Several of our younger In this edition, we residents have been look at the problems evicted by their parents or facing some of Croydon’s guardians, and some felt younger residents. In that the recession had put order to do so, a number extra strain on their family of young people were relationships. interviewed or completed As a result, their questionnaires. financial situation has changed completely and How the recession is several said they were in affecting young people danger of having to give Available services Welfare benefits team Croydon’s young people up on their education (free confidential welfare rights advice) are experiencing very and go into full-time CAYSH Tel: 0800 731 5920 (Monday 2-7pm; similar problems to adult employment because Wednesday 11am-2pm; Friday residents. they could not support (supported housing for young people) 9am-noon) The range of problems themselves. Tel: 020 8683 0227 Email: [email protected] Citizens Advice Bureau Amanda, 17, from Selhurst Web: www.caysh.org/home/ (for legal, money and welfare HAP<25 benefits issues) Amanda is currently studying for her In addition to this, Amanda is worried (support for homeless young people) Thornton Heath Citizens Advice Bureau A levels, and works part-time in a that her place of work may make job Tel: 020 8667 0500 Tel: 020 8684 2236 large store in central Croydon. cuts as a result of the recession and, as Web: www.caysh.org/what-we-do/hap25/ Addington Citizens Advice Bureau a young part-time employee, she feels In the past, she has had disagreements vulnerable. Off The Record Tel: 01689 846890 with her parents and had sometimes had (youth counselling in Croydon) Web: www.croydoncab.org.uk If Amanda were to lose her job, she to stay with friends while the situation Tel: 020 8251 0251 would have no income and may have to Croydon Savers Credit Union calmed down. Email: [email protected] draw a halt to her studies in order to find (a savings and loans cooperative offering In recent times, the strains of the full-time work. Web: www.offtherecordcroydon.org recession had meant that her parents its members access to ethical savings Through friends, Amanda heard of had become more worried, with Connexions Centre Croydon and affordable credit) HAP<25, an organisation offering arguments in the family becoming more Tel: 020 3354 2000 Tel: 020 8760 5711 support for young homeless people. frequent. Amanda visited the Dingwall Road Croydon Drop-In Web: [email protected] As a result of one particularly serious offices, where she spoke with an adviser Phone: 020 8680 0404 Young People & Money disagreement, her parents asked about how she could address her Email: [email protected] Amanda to leave the family home. situation. a website offering advice, links National Family Mediation and training courses For a time, Amanda was able to stay at She remains hopeful that she will not www.youngpeopleandmoney.co.uk a friend’s house, but her friend’s parents lose her job, and that her housing issues Tel: 020 7383 5993 have asked her to find somewhere else. will be resolved soon. Web: www.nfm.u-net.com /index.php 12 yourspace April 2009 | Your Croydon

weapons taken off the streets as a result Met matters 200 of stop-and-search. of 19.5%, compared to the three months prior to the initiative. The measures that How secure is your home? have contributed to these results are a With burglary rates in the borough beginning to creep upward, it’s time variety of prevention and enforcement tactics. to make it harder for burglars to break in, and easier for the police to They include high- catch the raiders. visibility patrols with partners, intelligence-led Current figures show that “People can help operations, the use of nearly nine homes a day in us tackle burglary and Since becoming screening arches in busy Croydon are being burgled, reduce the chances of temporary borough areas, engaging with compared to just over six a becoming victims by commander in October young people on the day this time last year. making sure their homes last year, my number-one streets, stop-and-search, Even though Croydon are securely locked, and by priority has been to work and weapons sweeps. police are confident of reporting any suspicious with the local authority As a result of stop- making arrests, there’s activity to police.” and our partners to and-search and weapons no argument that the Gavin Barwell, address knife crime sweeps, more than 200 figures are worrying. Croydon Council’s cabinet and youth violence. weapons have been Croydon’s top police member for community Operation Safe for taken off our streets. officer, acting borough safety and cohesion, is All is Croydon’s multi- My officers have been commander Supt Adrian also backing the national agency partnership engaging with parents of Roberts says: “Burglary publicity campaign response to tackling young suspects, making is currently a priority for launched to prevent youth-related violence them aware of the risks Croydon police and we more householders and knife crime in and advising them of are engaged in a variety of becoming victims. the borough. the warning signs. We tactics to tackle the issue; He said: “The we are conducting high- police are working hard visibility patrols, searching to prevent burglaries Between the beginning of last suspects’ addresses, from happening in the October, and January this year, issuing crime prevention first place, but their advice, and educating job would be easier if knife crime fell by 39.5% residents and business people did more to make owners about security. their property secure. The operation have found many cases “In a recent operation, “The fact is, you are launched last October in of parents having no 24 burglary suspects 10 times more likely to response to an increase idea their youngster is were arrested, of whom have possessions stolen in knife crime and falling into gang-related seven were charged and if you don’t have basic youth violence and the criminal activity. Keep him out: simple measures go a long way will appear in court. security in place.” tragic teenage murders Driving Safe for All of Shakilus Townsend, over the coming months Nilanthan Murddi and and beyond will require Oliver Kingonzila. a sustained effort by Safe as houses – tips to beat the burglar While recognising police, council, partner that most of our young agencies, parents, • Fit strong locks to Is your property most home-improvement people are a credit to this guardians, community external doors and marked? stores) to neatly mark borough, the campaign leaders, teachers, windows, and make Marking your property is your equipment with your aimed to deter and voluntary groups and sure they are locked one of the best ways to address and postcode. disrupt those involved the courts; everyone at all times. protect your possessions. For bicycles, mowers, in, or vulnerable to, such has their part to play • Always remove all keys It is easy and effective engines and other heavy crime and to increase in reducing crime. from inside locks, and and, if your property is metal objects, you can public confidence I am committed to keep them out of sight stolen, marking makes it use a punching tool and through a range of making Croydon a safer and in a safe place. more difficult to sell on. a hammer to mark your enhanced enforcement place and the focus on • Fit sturdy deadlocks It also makes it easier address and post code. and prevention activity. reducing youth-related (British Standard for the police to return For the second method, As a result, between violence remains my BS3621) to all doors. your belongings, if found. you can buy permanent the beginning of last number-one priority. • Make sure your doors The Met Police ultra-violet (UV) marker October and January If you have any and frames are strong recommend two ways: pens and mark the same of this year, knife crime concerns about a young and in good condition • engraving or punching information on more fell by 39.5% compared person you know being – wooden doors should your address and valuable possessions. with the same period involved in gangs, please be at least 44mm thick. postcode into The marks will be the previous year – contact Croydon police’s • Fit a door chain or bar your property; invisible to the naked 61 fewer victims. youth engagement team and door viewer (spy- • marking antiques or eye, but will fade with Youth-related on 020 8649 0195 hole), and use them. valuable property with time and should be violent offences during • When you are out in the an ultra-violet marker. redone periodically. the first few months evening, leave lights on How to do it Police study stolen of the operation also and close the curtains. For the first method, you property for markings dropped. There were Supt Adrian Roberts • Install outside security need a fine drill or sharp- that might identify the 31 fewer victims, Temporary lighting – if other people pointed tool (inexpensive owners, ensuring that representing a drop borough commander can see your property, a permanent marking kits your property is returned burglar may think twice. can be purchased at should it be stolen. www.croydon.gov.uk yourspace 13

planned investment over next two years for extra British £6m Transport Police officers. Extra bobbies on the railway beat Mayor of London pledges to tackle antisocial behaviour and crime on suburban lines.

Trains and stations across at more than 100 stations the borough are set to and routes in London’s benefit from a boost to outer boroughs. Everyone the number of British They will also work has the right to Transport Police officers. closely with the existing The Mayor of London BTP neighbourhood travel safely and has announced that an policing teams on the additional 50 BTP officers and free from the will be patrolling trains Overground services as fear of crime, no and stations in outer well as the TfL-funded London. Metropolitan Police matter what part More than £6m will Safer Transport Teams, be invested by Transport Transport Operational of london they for London (TfL) over the Command Unit (TOCU) live in. next two years to fund the and borough Safer extra officers on non-TfL Neighbourhood policing services as part of the teams. Mayor’s commitment to The officers will work clamp down on low-level alongside the 30 new crime and disorder at transport-policing teams Visible deterrent: 50 more British Transport Police officers for outer services. outer London rail stations. announced by the Mayor The teams of last year, and due to be Selhurst, Thornton Heath, Carshalton Beeches. “This is why we’ve officers, being rolled out rolled out across London Norbury and Waddon. The Mayor said: taken the decision to over coming months, by June. Beyond the borough “Everyone has the right fund an extra 50 British will provide visible Croydon’s BTP team boundary, its officers to travel safely and free Transport Police Officers reassurance, particularly will be covering the will patrol: from the fear of crime, to patrol the national after dark, as well as following borough stations Common, Streatham, no matter what part of railway network in outer community engagement and areas: East Croydon, Wallington, Sutton and London they live in. London.” 14 yourcommunity April 2009 | Your Croydon

funding to be spent on funding to modernise £2m boroughwide projects £2m Thornton Heath Library Jumpers for goalposts? Not any more for youngsters across the borough who are enjoying up-to-date facilities on improved games courts.

Years ago, one of the council’s community The new biggest hassles of playing improvement fund, the sports in a park was amenity is once again in five-a-side goals having to retrieve the ball top-notch condition. when it was shot wide The broken perimeter on the hard court of an improvised goal or fencing has been replaced area have greatly missed a basketball hoop. with a cage-like structure But, with the arrival capable of confining all improved an area of securely fenced multi- but the most wayward games courts, that’s no of up-and-unders. of the park that longer a problem. For anyone wanting was under-utilised. Croydon now has to run around with 15 of the facilities that a ball it’s heaven. have become so popular Even though the new with youngsters. fittings have been designed They can host a range to be vandal-resistant, of games, often taking with the recreation place simultaneously. ground being locked at Kick-about: new facilities open up opportunities for play across the borough The latest upgrade night the council can of a balls court is in ensure that use of the Trust, which runs summer “The council’s to be providing £2m to be a landscaped corner court doesn’t become a holiday football courses. commended for these spent in playgrounds of Selsdon Recreation pain for people living in He told Your Croydon: improvements, which, around the borough on Ground where intensive houses near the park. “The new five-a-side it’s hoped, will enable projects costing relatively use and, regrettably, some One of the local goals and the heightened more young people small sums of money. misuse, had left the court residents who’s impressed fencing on the hard court to use the park for Started a year ago, in a rather sorry state. by the new set up is Alan area have greatly improved sporting activities.” the fund is on course Now, thanks to Palmer, who also chairs an area of the park that The community to pay for schemes funding from the the Crystal Palace Youth was under-utilised. improvement fund is across the borough. Community plans for Thornton Heath Library Improved facilities, more books and an extended programme of events scheduled after major refit.

With refurbishment works worth include refurbishing and two extensions to create more be brought back into use. works, the library service more than £2m now under extending the existing library, community space and improved Study facilities, a computer will be run from nearby way, the pleasure of visiting with £1.3m coming from the access, with a new lift and lab, teen zone, Homework 282 Brigstock Road. and using Thornton Heath Big Lottery Fund Community stairs to the lower floor, and Help Club and a Book Bar Most of the usual library Library is set to increase. Libraries programme. facilities for the disabled. are all part of the plans to services will continue from Work on the Brigstock A further £250k has been A community meeting room encourage learning. And the temporary site, including Road building began in agreed to pay for internal will be added to the lower baby change facilities and ICT classes, but there will March, with the reopening works and new books. ground floor and children’s a community kitchen will be a reduced stock of books planned for April 2010. The redevelopment will library extended; the old ensure all ages can benefit. and some activities, will The £2,038,000 plans provide a new entrance and children’s library will also During the refurbishment be offered elsewhere. www.croydon.gov.uk yourbusiness 15

I wouldn’t say that we all knew the answers to all the questions we were asked, but if one of us couldn’t help, the chances were that another one of us could. Tish Warbey More than just a mock Turtle’s After years of working for one of Croydon’s best-loved stores, one enterprising employee took the brave step of going it alone when others might have thought twice.

Many might possibly out but, on the whole, think that starting a everybody got on with business in the current each other,” she said. economic climate was not “Customers liked If someone the wisest of decisions. it, too. They knew Tish Warbey, though, they could get help. I wants to start up would like to disagree wouldn’t say that we – even if the decision to all knew the answers now, things can go it alone was rather to all the questions we only get better, forced upon her. were asked, but if one Tish had worked at of us couldn’t help, the can’t they! Turtle’s, in Park Street, for chances were that another 15 years before the doors one of us could.” closed for the last time at Tish was one of the the end of December. last members of staff The atmosphere in to leave Turtle’s, but Turtle’s – a much-loved the idea of starting her Aladdin’s cave where, own enterprise was it seemed, virtually any well established by that household tool or object time: “Croydon needs could be bought – had a shop like this in the been like being part of middle of the town. Bravestart: Tish Warbey has taken on the credit crunch hopeful of success a big family, according “I’ve had a lot of to Tish, and the closure, support from the suppliers on to good business.” of weeks ago, that Sir “I’d say: ‘be sensible, though mooted for some I got to know over my So, would Tish Richard Branson had take it steady and don’t time, had been very years at Turtle’s. They’ve encourage other budding said that this is possibly overstretch yourself’. If sad for all the staff. been very good and, entrepreneurs to set the best time to start somebody wants to start “Like all families, like everybody else, up shop at present? a new business – and up now, things can only we had the odd falling they’re keen to hang “I read, a couple he should know. get better, can’t they!” Building a commercial future Borough entrepreneurs and new businesses offered helping hand to get on their feet. The borough’s recent was the champion of a The Weatherill being offered at reduced or already running, a past will soon be shaking number of local groups Business Centre is just a rates, and similar schemes new business and who hands with its future and causes, and gained part of the work being are planned for Broad would like to learn more when a major enterprise national prominence in undertaken by Croydon Green, New Addington about any of the schemes opportunity centre his role as Speaker of the Council and its partners in and South Norwood. should email the Croydon (EOC) opens its doors. House of Commons during encouraging entrepreneurs A prime location, Business Venture chief Offering 43 fully- the Thatcher and Major in the borough to take Park House was the first executive, Norman Pierce equipped offices to premiership years of the the chance to set up of a planned network of at [email protected] or call local start-up ventures 1980s and early ‘90s. new businesses that EOCs for the borough. him on 020 8681 8339. and young companies, Due to open in might go on to provide Council partner Lord Weatherill the centre will be part October, the centre is for their own future Croydon Enterprise has of the Wandle Village being created as part and that of employees invested into the centre development of the of a Barratt Homes that work for them. specifically to provide large swathe of land housing development. In central Croydon, designated office units for sitting between Purley The centre is the empty office space in local social enterprises. Way and Wandle Park. In addition to practical Following consultation office space, the centre with his widow, the In central Croydon, empty will provide business decision has been taken planning and training to name the centre after office space is being offered support for voluntary and the late Lord Weatherill, community organisations, who died last year. helping them develop In addition to the result of a joint venture Park House, Park Street social enterprises as time he served as MP between Croydon Council, – including a desk, a way of ensuring a for Croydon North East, Croydon Enterprise and telephone and some sustainable income. Bernard Weatherill Croydon Business Venture. business support – is Anybody planning, Helping hand: Norman Pierce of CBV 16 yourenvironment April 2009 | Your Croydon

If you are planning a basket for the summer, and if you have a greenhouse or conservatory, buy plants now and plant up the basket to let it grow on slowly. Time to start planting It’s time to get out the garden tools to make an early start on this year’s Croydon in Bloom.

Every gardener knows the lack of a propagator that a little planning is or greenhouse. needed if crops are going Plants such as to be ready on time or geraniums (pelargoniums), flower displays are to be petunia, fuchsia and at their best in summer. others, are readily And that’s especially available, as are vegetable true for any who are plants such as sweet thinking about entering corn, lettuce, and dwarf this year’s Croydon in and runner beans. Bloom competition. If you are planning a As the old adage basket for the summer, and Time spent goes, “time spent now, if you have a greenhouse is time saved later”, or conservatory, buy now is time so, to make sure you’re plants now and plant saved later. ready for the summer, up the basket to let let’s start thinking about it grow on slowly. Riot of colour: Croydon is going for its third London in Bloom title what to sow or plant. As well as needing Purchasing small plants fewer plants, the basket for the table this year, gardening you are into, gold in Britain in Bloom. and seedlings from the will look magnificent remember you don’t need it’s time for action – and, For more hints and garden centre to grow on when you put it outside a large allotment; a small, remember, Croydon is tips, visit www.croydon. the windowsill or in the – once the risk of frost one-metre-square raised trying for its third straight gov.uk/croydoninbloom greenhouse is a good way has passed, of course. bed will produce a regular win in the London or send an email to of overcoming any fears If you are thinking supply of salad crops. in Bloom large city croydoninbloom@ about germination or about growing a few veg Whatever kind of competition and going for croydon.gov.uk

Green garden waste service extended Kerbside collection grows with no extra cost to council taxpayers. This year’s kerbside contractor, this popular During late March and seasonal green garden service has been extended early April, the council waste collection service from 32 to 36 weeks will supply residents with will start on Monday, 13 for the same cost, and their supply of two clear April, and run through to residents will be able to sacks. Friday, 18 December. place as many as six sacks Extra sacks can be Through negotiations of green garden waste for bought from borough with Veolia, the council’s each fortnightly collection. libraries for £1 each. Sudoku Recycling The Croydon Friends of the Earth group is currently organizing team-leader training with Global Action Plan and, in the coming months, will be looking for Croydon households to participate. By visiting www.globalactionplan. org.uk you can get involved in a project to live more sustainably. And visit www. freecycle.co.uk for ideas of ways to get involved in recycling. The solution is on page 23 www.croydon.gov.uk yourenvironment 17

croydon I believe it’s important for everyone to consider the waste that they generate, and ec citizen recycle and reuse as much as possible. 2009 Grace Onions, Waddon Are you this year’s Eco Citizen? Following the success of last year’s inaugural campaign, Eco Citizen 2009 is launched.

Challenging financial times call for smarter “It was cool, those stunt thinking and doing. skateboarding and BMX Croydon’s Eco Citizens guys at the Whitgift have already worked out Centre … now I’m getting that using less energy the skills myself”. and water, using your Sam, a Waddon- car less, walking more, based skateboarder who reusing, recycling and enjoyed the Eco Expo choosing more locally display last October, uses produced food is good his local skateboard park for the planet and usually and is taking part in the good for your pocket, too. cycle training scheme. If you have become “greener” this year, or know a relative, friend, neighbour, school or local project or campaign that has made a real difference to the environment, tell us about it. Eco Citizen is here to say “thank you” “It came to me, right there and to celebrate your in the supermarket aisle achievements. – the stairwell light had Eco Taskforce: pupils of Parish Church Junior School set the recycling agenda gone again. If I replaced it with a low-energy ways that don’t harm the Eco Citizen 2009 Details of the categories In the work place lightbulb it could last 10 planet’s ability to provide can be obtained by calling The role of businesses years instead of 10 months us with clean air, water, categories the Eco Citizen team should not be or so. My son could take food and enjoyable green on 020 8760 5791 or underestimated as they time to talk to me when space in the future. Recycler of the year following the link from play an important part in he visited, instead of At Parish Church (CE) Low-carbon household www.croydon.gov.uk/ changing our approach having to climb a ladder Junior School the children Favourite Croydon environment/ to the environment. The each time. And my bills have taken this to heart. green project Entries will be judged council supports Envibe would go down, too.” Their Eco Taskforce according to the following (Environmental Business Ace recycler: Grace Onions Mrs Mason, Coulsdon has a range of exciting Natural Croydon criteria: sustainability Excellence) which “I was absolutely delighted ideas and initiatives for Best environmental of the project, outcome, provides free hands-on to be named the Recycler “It’s brilliant! Now, with everyone in the school, message/campaign originality, and positive support and advice to of the Year in 2008. It and the green including: Primary school impact on the wider local businesses. acknowledges not only boxes – taking plastic • running a swap shop, community. For details, visit my efforts, but the efforts bottles and cardboard, to recycle items; Secondary school The award ceremony www.envibe.co.uk or of all those who use my as well as cans, glass, • bringing in items from The Croydon Eco will be held in the call Debbie Clement on recycling ‘facilities’ and paper and clothes – home to recycle; Citizen 2009 autumn. 020 8760 5536. join in this local recycling there is so much less • growing plants that scheme. I believe it’s to put in my bin.” reflect the school’s important for everyone Sarah, Forestdale values (eg, honesty); Nomination for Croydon Eco Citizen 2009 croydon to consider the waste • a mystery seed-plant trail; that they generate, and All Croydon schools • displaying a message Your name ec citizen recycle and reuse as study the environment, in a collage of recycled 2009 much as possible. ” our role as citizens in materials; Contact number/email Grace Onions, Waddon living, and working in • not wasting water or electricity; Who are you nominating? • having a blackout day, on which no electricity Contact number/email is used, to conserve and think about our use Category of energy. The core messages from Reason for nomination the Eco Taskforce are: • Enthusiasm is incredible • Concern is deep and

genuine Please return to: Environment and sustainability team, 18th floor, Taberner House,

• Organisation is Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3BT ✃ impressive ! Advertising feature

Croydon supports Think Feet First

NHS London awarded Croydon Council’s Active Lifestyle team £4,000 to help promote the Go London Think Feet First walking campaign.

The National Health Service and its and run regular health walks all over partners are encouraging more people the borough, and it is thanks to their to take part in physical activity across dedication that Croydon is able to run the capital. its ongoing programme. The campaign highlights the benefits Leaflets, promoting the walks’ of walking and Croydon is one of 15 programme, will be distributed London boroughs to be included in the in libraries and sports centres. NHS’s Walking Ambassadors’ plans. And the Active Lifestyle team has The Active Lifestyle team is keen to also produced credit card-sized work with the NHS to showcase the borough health walk guides, which borough’s walking programme to new will also be available at libraries and audiences and to encourage inactive leisure centres. people to take regular exercise.

2012 The Croydon health walks The campaign also marks the launch Monday walk 1 – grade 1/2: of the 2012 Health Legacy programme. tram stop, 11am The 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Monday walk 2 – grade 3: Games’ bid promised lasting benefits Lloyd Park tram stop, 1pm for Londoners. This promise is being kept by the NHS-run programme, Tuesday walk – grade 2: under the Go London banner. , The Good Companions pub car park, 11am Croydon’s Active Lifestyle team already runs a list of regular health Wednesday walk 1 – grade 1: walks, detailed in the box below. A South Norwood Leisure Centre, 11am special walk was planned for Happy Valley, Old Coulsdon, on Saturday, Wednesday walk 2 – grade 3: March 28, to promote the ‘Think Feet Old Coulsdon, The Fox pub car park, 11am First’ campaign. Thursday walk 1 – grade 3: An inter-schools Pedometer Challenge , 10.30am for Year 5 primary pupils was held Thursday walk 2 – grade 3: during March. , 1.30pm Stands and displays were located in staffed by the Friday walk – grade 2: volunteer health walk ambassadors. car park, 1.30pm Croydon has 25 keen volunteers who Saturday walk – grade 3: support the borough’s goals to promote Lloyd Park tram stop, 10.30am the benefits of walking. They organise (every 1st and 3rd Saturday).

Walks grading: 1: Flat terrain 2: One or two gentle hills/slopes 3: A number of hills/slopes of which some may be steep

For further information on any of the health walks, or to receive a copy of the leaflet, please call 020 8667 8416. www.croydon.gov.uk yoursport 19

The legends team will include former Palace favourites and , who have gone on to carve successful TV careers.

Match day sales Palace legends support learning Palace Family Day gets backing of the line up for council – and pupils get the benefit. More than 3,000 sponsored by the council. youngsters from local A major element schools got the chance to of the event gave local attend the recent Crystal schools the chance to Palace home game against sell discounted tickets to charity match Preston, thanks to a little pupils, staff and friends of help from the council. the school, with proceeds It promises to be yesterday once more when Selhurst stars from the past line up The latest in a series from the sales being used of popular Crystal to buy books to help the against a team of celebrities. Palace Family Days was students with their studies.

Give the Red Card to Knife it or pretending it’s not Crime – that’s the message happening. behind what promises “Sadly, it’s a reality, to be an entertaining so the more help and afternoon of football at opportunities we can give . young people in the area, The initiative, both through workshops launched by the Crystal and the tournaments Palace Community Sports we’re running, the better, Trust, in partnership with as far as we’re concerned.” the club, Croydon Council The celebrity XI will and the Metropolitan include Ralf Little of The Police, is working as Royle Family and Two Pints part of the Safe for All Of Lager and A Packet Of campaign. Crisps, Hassan B from Ali Its aim is to use Nigel Martyn G, Ray Panthaki from boy In the frame: Palace president Peter Marley (left) thanks football to tackle the Members of the Crystal Sunday, 29 March, with a band A1, Ben Adams, and Councillor Tim Pollard with a signed club shirt ongoing problem of Palace playing squad kick-off of 1pm. Big Brother contestant knife and street crime, have been attending the The match, in Dale Howard. and to highlight the workshops and running conjunction with Soccer The legends team consequences of being their eyes over some of Six, will see a Mark Bright for the afternoon will drawn into criminal the youngsters taking part Legends XI take on a UK include Ian Wright, activity. in the tournament. Cup Stars Celebrity XI. Chris Coleman, Clinton CRYSTAL PALACE FOOTBALL CLUB Youngsters from across Goalkeeper Julian Tickets are available to Morrison, Eric Young, CroydonPRESENTS THE the borough have been Speroni and defender see the Palace legends line Dougie Freedman, CHARITY BALL attending workshops Nathanial Clyne added up against favourites from Wayne Routledge, Neil 2009 delivered by the New their support to the the worlds of music, TV Shipperley, Simon Osborn, 7th Year Destiny Trust, focusing campaign when they and the big screen. Nigel Martyn, Peter on the issues of anti- attended one of the Tickets are priced at: Taylor, Geoff Thomas, TUESDAY 19TH MAY 2009 crime initiatives, and workshops to meet the adults £8, concessions £5, Chris Powell, Richard In the marquee on the pitch followed by an afternoon youngsters taking part. and the bargain family Shaw, Alan Pardew, Vince selhurst park stadium This wonderful Black-Tie event is now a highlight on the business calendar. The session out on the pitch, Julian told the club’s ticket (two adults and Hilaire and – evening consists of a fabulous 3 course meal and quality entertainment all in a stunning single span marquee actually on the pitch at Selhurst Park Stadium. Top taking part in a football website: “This is a great three children) for just though not necessarily all comedian Ian Irving and dance band ‘Payback’ will ensure you and your guests will have a night to remember whilst supporting two very worthy causes. tournament. project which is clearly £25. on the park at the same MC and Host targeting a local concern Club vice-chairman time! The evening will once again be hosted by our very own Dave “the kid” Jensen. Dave has hosted every previous Charity Ball and he will ensure the evening flows and the club’s support Dominic Jordan said: Complementing the throughout. shows how seriously we “We’re hoping there will charity match, the CPFC KINDLY SPONSORED BY view the problems of knife be a great line-up of Community Sports Trust crime. celebrities and former has run a series of football “The workshop today Palace legends to ensure workshops within the Tables of 10 guests are £750 +vat covered some important everyone coming has a borough, and football To book your table call 0208 768 6049 or points and it was obvious fantastic experience. tournaments for under e-mail [email protected] that the youngsters were “This is a very 15s and under 18s. MEDIA PARTNER RECEPTION SPONSOR doing their best to win important cause and The tournaments will their matches and get a something we, as a club, be completed at Selhurst

chance to play at Selhurst take very seriously. Park, with the semi-finals ALL PROCEEDS GO TO Park.” “It’s vital to heighten and finals played out on The initiative the awareness of violent the pitch before the game

showpiece is a charity youth crime, rather and during the half-time Reg no 1122878 Reg no 1003825 Dougie Freedman match at Selhurst Park on than shying away from break. 20 yourheritage April 2009 | Your Croydon

Local singer/songwriter shows all that’s needed for success is a guitar, good songs and a good voice Brit student lifts Testing 1,2,3 crown

1, 2, 3 she’s a winner: singer/songwriter De’borah

Talented singer/songwriter bests death metal band, soul songstress and the King of Dance.

Two self-penned songs and songwriter, hip hop/R’n’B outfit led by Jaz, whose De’borah won stand-out runner-up due a cover of an Oasis classic and band – went head vocals were reminiscent of everyone’s hearts from the to his unique, enjoyable De’borah was were enough to convince to head in an evening of Stevie Wonder. off with her plaintive, pure performance. We’d be very a unanimous the judges of this year’s diverse music at Croydon Next up was singer/ songs, simply accompanied surprised if we didn’t hear Testing 1,2,3 competition Clocktower’s Braithwaite songwriter Zara Kershaw by her guitar. a lot about him in 2009.” choice as that 17-year-old De’borah Hall. who delivered a Gloria Rosa had hearts In addition to the is Croydon’s hottest racing with her powerful chance of playing in she delivers unsigned music act. soul voice and the evening front of a crowd of The evening got off beautifully Judges Chris Welch ended with twin female thousands at this year’s (rock journalist), to a funky start singers delivering soaring Croydon Summer Festival, written songs Susanna Roland (music vocals with their death De’borah picked up a programmer and metal band Black Krash. £150 prize from Beanos, a with a gorgeous producer) and Daz Guerin Each of the finalists professional and confident Judge Daz Guerin days’ recording at Antenna clear voice. (songwriter, performer sang two original set to an admiring judging said: “De’borah was a Studios, a year’s pass to and music events director) compositions and their panel. unanimous choice as the Clocktower’s David chose singer/songwriter interpretation of Oasis’ The King of Dance she delivers beautifully Lean Cinema, a shoot with De’borah from six top acts Wonderwall. surprised everyone with written songs with a local independent music who had come through The evening got his dance backing tracks gorgeous clear voice in photographer Bowdown the week’s heats. off to a funky start mixing Kraftwerk-style a completely unaffected and customised T-shirts Two acts from each of with Sugarstone ft Jaz electronica with deep way. from High Street trader three categories – singer/ Ellington, a seven-piece beaty vocals. “King of Dance was a Timebomb. www.croydon.gov.uk yourheritage 21

Cullens – once part of a large up-market chain, this shop was one of the last grocers to be found on our High Street. Brit student lifts Testing 1,2,3 crown

High Street – pre-flyover Photographer Frazer Ashford revisits High Street – and remembers old favourites.

A view showing High into place. There are no although that was the last Street taken across the slip roads and the thing that I took much road from Mint Walk construction company notice of back in my looking toward South signs can be seen on the schooldays. Organised by the Croydon. side of the girders. I did, however, take council’s arts and At first glance, not All the shops seem to note of the large shop museums division, Testing much seems to have have changed, of course, which can be seen under 1,2,3 is supported by changed. The office although the old image the flyover construction generous sponsorship blocks look surprisingly did bring back a couple of and on the corner of the from a number of local modern despite the memories. down ramp to High companies. picture being taken, as far The first shop on the Street. as I can recall, toward the left-hand edge of the Back in those days, it end of the 1960s. image is Cullens the was called Priors and was So, what has grocers. Once part of a a young boys’ delight, as changed? large up-market chain, it was the largest model Well the flyover, such this shop was one of the shop around, and we a busy road today, is not last grocers to be found would often stop and actually a flyover in this on our High Street. The look into the wonderful ‘60s image! remaining 45 stores were displays of planes, boats At that point, what finally swallowed up by and trains that filled its was to become the flyover Tesco in 2004. windows. comprised merely a few I also seem to For more examples of girders which had remember that next to it Frazer’s work, visit www. from top: runner-up King of Dance, left: Gloria Rosa, right: Black Krash & above: Zara Kershaw recently been lowered was a funeral directors, frazerashford.com 22 yourevents April 2009 | Your Croydon

Fairfield, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 1DG Croydon Clocktower, Box Office 020 8688 9291 Katharine Street, Croydon Book online at www.fairfield.co.uk ticket office:020 8253 1030 where you can choose your own seats. email: [email protected] A booking fee of £2.25 per text: 07771 837121 ticket may apply Fairfield

The Loves And Laughs Of Milkshake Live! Doubt (15) Two Lovers Lemon Tree (PG) Che Part II (15) Henry Blofeld My First Concert Fri 3 & Sat 4, Mon 6 to 15 Fri 10 & Sat 11, Mon Wed 22 to Thu 23 April Wed 29 to Thu 30 April Wednesday 1 April Friday 24 & Saturday 25 Thu 9 April 13 to Thu 16 April) Director: Eran Riklis 2008 Director: Steven Soderbergh 7.45pm April; Fri 11am & 2.30pm, Director: John Patrick Director: James Gray 2009. Starring: Hiam Abbas, Ali 2008 An hilarious journey through Sat 10.30am, 1.30pm & Shanley 2008. Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Suliman Starring: Benicio del Toro, the crazy life of Test Match 4.30pm Starring: Meryl Streep, Philip Vinessa Shaw, Gwyneth The story of a Palestinian Rodrigo Santoro, Demian Special stalwart “Blowers.” Join your favourite TV Seymour Hoffman, Amy Paltrow. A classy romantic widow, whose lemon grove Bichir, Catalina Moreno Adams. drama set in New York. becomes a security risk when The second part of Tickets: £16 characters and Milkshake! presenters in a brand A progressive priest attempts Leonard (Phoenix) moves the Israeli defence minister Soderbergh’s portrait of Che to review the notorious moves next door, and her Guevara covers the period to The Chicago Blues new, action packed, all back into his parents’ home disciplinary practices of a unlikely friendship with his his capture and death in Brothers singing, all dancing musical and finds himself torn school in the Bronx, bringing wife who becomes 1967. Thursday 2 April 7.45pm extravaganza. between Sandra (Shaw), the him into conflict with Sister sympathetic to her plight. Featuring the All Star family friend his parents wish Tickets: adults £14.50, Aloysius (Streep). he would marry and Michelle Chicago Blues Band The Young Victoria (12A) Children’s & children £12, family ticket (Paltrow), his beautiful but Packed with more than two (two adults, two children) Fri 24, Sat 25 & Mon 27 Family Films Slumdog Millionaire (15) volatile new neighbour. hours of the very best blues £50 to Thu 30 April Fri 3 & Sat 4, Mon 6 to & soul music from both of Director: Jean-Marc Vallee The Ant Bully (U) Thu 9 April The Blues Brothers movies – Arthur Davison Family Australia (12A) 2008. Starring: Emily Blunt, Sat 4 April Director: Danny Boyle 2008. with plenty of laughs, too! Concert Wed 15 & Thu 16 April Rupert Friend, Miranda Naughty Lucas Nickle is Starring: Irfan Khan, Dev Saturday 25 April 11am Director: Baz Luhrmann 2008. Richardson, Jim Broadbent sentenced to hard labour… Tickets: £16.50 Patel. Medieval Mysteries with The Starring Nicole Kidman, Hugh The film focuses on the early, in an ant colony. Jamal Malik, an 18-year-old Pied Piper of Hamelin Jackman. often turbulent, years of the Blake And Natasha Marsh orphan from the slums of Bedtime Stories (PG) Conductor Darrell Davison Set in northern Australia prior monarch’s reign and her Wednesday 8 April 8pm Mumbai, is just one question Mon 6 & Wed 8 April Dragonsfire Medieval Music to World War II, an English legendary romance and Classical Brit Award away from winning 20 million Fantastic bedtime stories Group aristocrat (Kidman) inherits a marriage to Prince Albert. Winners, Blake are joined by rupees on India’s Who Wants start to magically come true. The Little Symphony of vast cattle station. When acclaimed soprano Natasha to be a Millionaire? show. But London cattle barons plot to take her High School Musical 3 (U) Marsh. how can a “slumdog” Travel back in time to land, she reluctantly joins Sat 11 April possibly know so much? Tickets: £27.50 & £25 the medieval era with the forces with a tough cattle The students head towards a haunting story of the Pied driver (Jackman) to drive tune-filled graduation and on Ross Noble Things Piper of Hamelin and the Conversations with 2,000 head of cattle across to college. Thursday 9 April 8pm Dragonsfire Medieval Group my Gardener (12A) the country’s unforgiving land. Ross covers the topic of dressed in period costume. Wed 8 & Thu 9 April *Contains one use of strong Better Things (15) Bolt (PG) things in this brand new The concert also includes Director: Jean Becker 2007. language, moderate war Fri 24, Sat 25 & Mon 27 to Mon 13, Wed 15 show – big things and small Handel’s Water Music, Starring: Daniel Auteuil, violence and injury. Thu 30 April & Fri 17 April things, things that have Pachelbel’s Canon, and Jean-Pierre Darroussin Director: Duane Hopkins A canine TV star embarks on happened to him, things that Warlock’s Sword Dance. A successful, but weary, a cross-country trek to save A Bunch of Amateurs (15) Starring: Liam McIlfatrick, have happened to you. artist and a gardener develop Che Corr, Freddie Cunliffe his co-star. Tickets: adults £9, children a warm friendship, fostered Fri 17 & Sat 18, Mon 20 Tickets: £20, concession £18 £7, family tickets £7 & £5 to Thu 23 April Hopkins’ debut feature Ice Age 2: by their love of the place depicts, with unflinching where they both grew up. Director: Andy Cadiff 2008. The Meltdown (U) London Mozart Players Starring: Imelda Staunton, realism, a community of lives Sat 18 April * Contains one use of strong led in quiet and not-so-quiet Mendelssohn Plus language and soft drug use. Burt Reynolds, Derek Jacobi The ice age is over and Saturday 25 April 7.30pm In this funny and moving desperation: teenagers everything is starting to melt! Conductor Gerard Korsten comedy, ageing action hero, struggling with the The Reader (15) Principal soloists from the Jefferson Steel (Reynolds) is complexities of love and Ink Heart (PG) Fri 10 & Sat 11, Mon 13 Cirque De Glace London Mozart Players desperate to revive his drugs, older folk filled with Sat 25 April to Thu 16 April The evening programme flagging career. He believes angst, and the very elderly A young girl saves her father Wednesday 15 until Director: Stephen Daldry includes Mendelssohn’s he has been offered the cast adrift. from a story-book villain. Sunday 19 April 2008. Starring: Kate Winslet, Symphony No.3 ‘Scottish’, perfect role when his agent 7.30pm Wed to Sat, 2.30pm Ralph Fiennes, David Kross Il Divo Mozart’s Symphony No.25 comes up with a prestige run Thu, Sat & Sun A haunting period romance K183 and Haydn’s Sinfonia playing King Lear. Thrilling ice skating and that traces the complicated Concertante for Oboe, stunning circus feats love affair between a German are brought together in Bassoon, Violin & Cello. teenager and a mysterious Il Divo (15 - tbc) this brand new exciting woman twice his age. ice spectacular from the Tickets: £10 to £29.50 Fri 17, Sat 18 & Mon 20 to Thu 23 April acclaimed Russian Ice Stars. Two Lovers Director: Paolo Sorrentino Tickets: £26.50, £24.50, 2008. Starring: Toni Servillo, £20.50, children all seats £15 Anna Bonaiuto, Flavio Bucci A depiction of the life and Steeleye Span times of Giulio Andreotti, 40th Anniversary Tour arguably the most famous Wednesday 22 April Best Of Brian Conley and notorious Italian politician 7.45pm Thursday 30 April 8pm of the post-war era, who was Italian prime minister no less Tickets: £17.50 Tickets: £19.50 than seven times. yourevents yourdiary 23

Details of all Croydon Council meetings can be found on the council website at www.croydon.gov.uk/ meetingsofthecouncil Clocktower Dates for your diary Spoonface Steinberg an extraordinary story about although none could Council Presented by Phoenix one girl’s ability to address remember if it was because Deadlines for public questions for forthcoming full council meetings (all start at 6.30pm). Noon Theatre Arts the meaning of life, death he was afraid of them, or on the relevant deadline date. Wednesday 1 April and hope. they were afraid of him. 7.30-9pm £7.50 (£6 concessions) Inspired by the character of Meeting: Monday, 30 March Deadline: Monday, 16 March From the writer of Billy Elliot, Boo Radley the forbidding Spoonface Steinberg is Presented by Mind the Gap yet friendly, timid but Monday, 18 May Deadline: Monday, 4 May about an eight-year-old girl Boo ultimately heroic character with autism who discovers Tuesday 2 April from To Kill a Mockingbird. To submit a question (maximum number of words: 50) for consideration at a full council she is dying of cancer. To 7.30-8.45pm What does society these meeting, email it to [email protected]; fax it to 020 8760 5657; print and Spoonface, the world is an Ever wondered what it’s like days make of this scared complete the form at www.croydon.gov.uk/councilquestion and post it to Questions for the inexplicable jigsaw puzzle to get away with murder? bogeyman? And does council, Democratic and legal services, Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3JS; or call which she attempts to piece When he was born, his anyone ever really get away 020 8726 6000 extn 63876. together during the course of parents called him Beau, with murder? Lee Hall’s award-winning which means beautiful. Over £7.50 (£6 concessions) play. Poetic and moving, time, the other children tender and uplifting, this is started to call him Boo, Neighbourhood partnership Neighbourhood partnership meetings (start at 7.30pm) Meeting: 1 April Group: Fairfield, Heathfield and Shirley Venue: , Selsdon Park Road Guided walks For information on Neighbourhood Partnerships, visit the website at www.croydononline.org/ neighbourhood_partnerships/, email [email protected], write Early insects on Spring flowers in to Neighbourhood Partnerships, Democratic and legal services, Taberner House, Park Lane, to Littleheath Woods Croydon CR9 3JS or call 020 8726 6000 extn 62564 or 62811. Common Saturday 25 April Wednesday 15 April 10am, junction of Queenhill Please call the warden on and Littleheath Roads, 07771 715812 as booking is Selsdon. Spring is the best Springtime delights Croydon Community Police Consultative Group essential. Two-hour event, all time for flowers in woodlands. of Happy Valley Meetings of the Croydon Community Police Consultative Group are held in the Council Chamber equipment provided. Come and see how many Sunday 26 April of the Town Hall. All are open to the public and begin at 6.30pm. For further information, go to flowers are making the most 2pm, car www.croydononline.org/ccpcg Spring wander of the light before the trees are park, two miles over 1.5 hours in Kings Wood in full leaf. Bus: T33, 64, 409 As Happy Valley awakes from Forthcoming meeting dates are: Thursday, 7 May Tuesday 21 April its winter slumber, the woods 11am, woodland entrance off Bats at South Norwood Lake and slopes come alive with Details of all Croydon Council meetings can be found on the council website at www.croydon. Orchard Road. Enjoy Kings Saturday 25 April bluebells, anemones, cowslips gov.uk/meetingsofthecouncil Wood at its best – when the 8-9.30pm, Woodvale Avenue and violets. Join the warden trees show off their new leaves entrance to the park. and discover the history and and the woodland floor is Due to popular demand – folklore behind some of our covered in bluebells. Bus: 403 here’s another opportunity to springtime flowers. hear and see bats at South Bus: 404, 466, Marlpit Lane Contact us Bats over Norwood Lake and grounds. Train: Coulsdon South, walk General enquiries Adult social services Streets and transport Friday 24 April Wrap up warm. up Downs Road/Ditches Lane (Customer Contact T: 020 8726 6500 T: 020 8726 7100 8-9.30pm Addington Hills top Bus: 410, Auckland Road 1 mile. Centre) F: 020 8633 9428 F: 020 8763 1649 car park, at barrier next to the T: 020 8726 6000 E: referral.team2@ (Highways/Street Lighting) Chinese restaurant, off Shirley Sudoku solution Opening hours 8am-7pm croydon.gov.uk E: highwaysmaintenance@ Hills Road. The nights are (Monday), 8am-6pm croydon.gov.uk getting warmer and bats are in (Tuesday-Friday) Business advice and E: streetlighting@ search of food. Join us for a Minicom: 020 8760 5797 council partners croydon.gov.uk nighttime ramble over E: contact.thecouncil@ T: 020 8726 6600 Addington Hills in search of croydon.gov.uk Revenues and Benefits the world’s only flying Planning and building T: 020 8726 7000 mammals. Bus: 466 control F: 020 8667 8440 Tram: Coombe Lane, walk Life in the community T: 020 8726 6800 E: [email protected]. through the woods, past the T: 020 8726 6700 F: 020 8760 5406 uk (Council Tax) notice board, follow the main E: planning.control@ E: [email protected]. woodland path along the top. Registration services croydon.gov.uk T: 020 8726 6300 uk (Housing Benefit) F: 020 8760 5633 Leisure and continuing E: register.office@ education Housing croydon.gov.uk T: 020 8726 6900 T: 020 8726 6100 F: 020 8760 5622 E: [email protected] Childrens, youth, (Parks and Open Spaces) families and schools [email protected] Environmental reporting T: 020 8726 6400 F: 020 8253 1004 T: 020 8726 6200 F: 020 8633 9441 only (Libraries) E: contact.thecouncil@ if making a child referral E: [email protected] croydon.gov.uk you told us “we want more help for young families”

we listened “there are now 20 children’s centres providing advice and activities – with more on the way” we’re still listening www.croydon.gov.uk/listening