November.e$S_WN.QXD 26/10/2015 11:30 Page 1

RemembranceWeFree to 3800 homes,st andc in olibrariesmb & some shops e November 2015 Issue 9 Sunday NEWS 8th November

A community newspaper commended by the Forum of Amenity and Civic Societies Monthly newspaper of The Westcombe Society: fostering a sense of community The second tunnel: What A real community effort Anne do YOU think? Robbins n October 5th, Transport for London opened Arguments against it emphasise a known effect of the statutory consultation for their proposed road building – encouraging people to drive rather OSilvertown Tunnel, a new road crossing than use public transport. The capacity for HGVs under the Thames from the peninsula near the O2 would mean quite a few more of these very large Centre to Royal Victoria Docks in Newham. lorries on the A102. The extra traffic could mean The consultation closes on November 29th, and that traffic jams southbound on the A102, already a the Westcombe Society is urging you to read the problem during evening peak times, could be much papers, and decide what you think. This is the worse. official consultation, and the last before the planning The No to Silvertown Tunnel Campaign has application is submitted to the Planning Inspectorate. recorded very high levels of damaging air pollution So it’s particularly important that you have your say. near the A102, and more traffic could add to that, And – more – all are invited when the government ought to to attend a meeting on be trying to protect peoples’ November 18th at 7.30 in health, and meet EU safety PHOTO: Joanne Delap Mycenae House, to help the standards. Westcombe Society finalise its TfL admit there would be own response to TfL. more traffic congestion on local Many will already know a roads, with drivers flocking The Biggest Coffee Morning in the World, which took place in bit about the plan. It proposes to use – or escape! – the tunnel. September in Mycenae House, is much more than that: coffee (and a new tunnel, with two lanes And charging may seem an tea), yes; yummee cakes, yes. But many like those above stayed on for a each way, large enough to take unwelcome burden to many delicious sandwich lunch, too. Dessert? Yes, more cake! double-decker buses and drivers, who may decide to use hings did not auger well for the hubbub of chatter; all the heavy HGVs From the south side, it would be the Rotherhithe Tunnel, via town centre. Tthe Westcombe Society’s par- tables and chairs were occupied reached on a spur from the A102 heading east across The proposal can be reviewed online, using TfL’s ticipation in the Biggest Coffee by people happily munching on the peninsula, and it would emerge on the north near website, or on paper at the Centre on Morning in the World, raising the delicious homemade cakes or where the Emirates Airway cable car lands. weekdays from 10:00am - 4:00 pm. You can also funds for Macmillan Cancer enjoying a sandwich lunch. Soon TfL say that it will add to traffic levels only at talk with TfL consultation staff and see more details Support, as all the posters adver- it was time to go, the cake stall peak hours, because they will be imposing charges on the plans at several roadshows: Tuesday tising the event around the had sold out early and there on the new tunnel and on the Blackwall Tunnel. November 10th noon-7pm, at the Forum in Trafalgar Standard were mysteriously Caroline was only the raffle to draw. The charges will be used to pay the billion pound Road; Saturday October 31st noon-5.00pm and removed. Owens The First Prize of £50 cash cost, as well as to control usage. Thursday November 26th noon-7.00pm, at the They were replaced but was won by ticket 607 The new tunnel would make journeys faster at Charlton Community Centre at Charlton House. within hours the second batch (Wendy) who generously donated peak hours, according to TfL, and give drivers an There are other opportunities north of the river, too. were taken down too. As a result, it to Macmillan. alternative if anything closes the Blackwall Tunnel, for the first hour no-one came and In the end a worthwhile £700 as sometimes happens now. TfL propose two new And please do come to the Westcombe Society’s we were beginning to worry what was raised for the charity bus routes through, and you should review their meeting on Nov. 18th, 7:30 at Mycenae House. we could do with the feast of Macmillan Cancer Support. material to decide if these would be useful for this We’ll be giving a short presentation of the plan, cakes and sandwiches generously Special thanks must go to area. and getting your views so we can reply to the made and donated by our volun- Maureen, Tessa, Marilyn, Joanne, The proposal is part of a larger package to build consultation for the Westcombe Society. teers. Mary, Dina, Emily, Shirley, new road crossings further east, and potentially to https:// Then things changed: people Cathy, Henrietta, Jan, Lisal and close the Woolwich Free Ferry altogether. consultations.tfl.gov.uk/rivercrossings/silvertown arrived with friends, a group of James who made the cakes and Not everyone is happy with the proposal. http://www.silvertowntunnel.co.uk/ young mothers with their babies, sandwiches to make the event a and soon the hall was alive with success. < < Newsbriefs > > IKEA news Mycenae Soup: a Health of the heath the end of October. A promised consultation on KEA have written to some roaring success A notable feature of the comedy thriller set in a parking in Old Dover Ilocal residents with news that heath are the bunds haunted house, the play Road will be carried out the plans for the new building he Mycenae Soup event in alongside several of the was perfectly timed for at the same time. have been delayed for a year. October in Mycenae House roads across or around Halloween. Stuart, is T Welcome to Franklin! Marilyn Little, chair of the the heath, havens for teamed once again with was fully subscribed – people had Warmest congratulations wild flowers and insects. Westcombe Hill actor Westcombe Society, comments: to be turned away. Next time, to Cllr Cherry Parker, Sadly, the new bunds Richard Rickson who “We note the change in time- book early, and book often! and husband Simon, on built in St German's was perfectly cast as scales and that the demolition of the arrival of Franklin Everyone thoroughly enjoyed Place have already been Private Godfrey. the current store is due to take Kenneth Parker, born at the evening. Thanks to the spon- Employability through Drama marred by cars being Post Office 12 noon on October 21st, place in January 2016; and that sors, Masons Catering, Simply driven across them. Theatre Workout Ltd runs drama The post office in weighing 6.8lbs. And a steps will be taken to secure and Food, Coriander Restaurant, After the OnBlackheath workshops for youth people to Stratheden Road will be warm welcome to make safe the site. event there were still and Marks & Spencer, it wasn’t build confidence and increase closed for refurbishment Franklin! “We also welcome news that tracts of bare grassland: 18th - 27th November. only soup that was on offer! employablity. Congratulations the ecology park at the rear of assurances have been Fireworks Night There were eight presentations Sewing stories Libby Rose are also due to Simon the building will be maintained given that these will is on Saturday 7th Nov. by local projects. They were wants to run free courses in Parker for producing his ‘for the foreseeable future.’ soon be rectified. The The display starts at reportedly all “excellent”, and sewing to encourage creativity other baby, his new book “We very much appreciate wet weather apparently 8.00pm and other activi- those in attendance had a hard and create space for sewing sto- Taking Power Back. delayed the work of ties begin earlier in the the time and effort IKEA are More about devolution time deciding on the winner. ries particularly for parents of recovery. day. There will be a fun- taking to ensure the new build- than revolution? The eight projects were: children with special needs. fair from 12 noon as well ing will address the concerns of Roan Theatre Company Trash to Treasure Michelle Bites and Bingo This project as food stalls and a bar Congratulations local people in terms of design, Following their highly Blundell runs Up-cycling work- plans an inter-generational from 5.00pm. A number also to Mary Mills on her sustainability and environmental successful Dad’s Army at shops making something out of Christmas event at St Ursula’s of roads will be closed new book about the impact – including the need to the Theatre, (almost) nothing driftwood, sea School especially for elderly during the display and . make it transport-friendly. the Roan Theatre Co.are We are very sorry to glass, old newspapers etc. people living on their own parking will be restricted. “We hope their colleagues in with a new play at the announce the sudden Mental Health Activity Trust Parking issues Montessori Education for John Roan Club in death on October 18th Sweden will support our joint Cllr Geoff Brighty Toni Hale helps people with Autism Wendy Fidler offers an Park Road, of Derek Rogers, wish to create a building in reports that the prom- mental health problems get back after-school nurture group for with its refurbished proprietor of the Well keeping with those concerns. ised-for-autumn review to health with a gardening project local school children with autism. theatre space. Local Bean shop on Old Their Hamburg and Norwich for the Meridian Radio This trains Greenwich & Bexley Hospice actor/writer Stuart Dover Road, aged 69. CPZ should be coming stores show what is possible and Mitchell-Smith’s new Our deepest condo- people to be competent radio The project offers therapeutic arts out over the next few hope the design in Greenwich play You Only Die Once lences to family and presenters – as well as cheering and crafts activities for patients. weeks. The long- will be worthy of its location.” was performed there at friends. on the patients at QEH. So, who won? See page 2! November.e$S_WN.QXD 26/10/2015 11:30 Page 2 MYCENAE SOUP his event was a huge success, and raised more than £1,100. TOur thanks go to Mark Johnson-Brown the manager of WESTCOMBE NEWS Mycenae House, Anna Mars and Barbara Ward and all the staff of Mycenae House, for organising it; not forgetting Rev Tim Yeager of All editoriAl correspondence to: St George’s, (the MC for the evening), the poet Rosie Johnston, neville Grant, The Editor musician Rob Aldridge, the eight participants and, not least, the [email protected] audience, whose difficult task it was to choose the winner. Tel. 020 8858 8489 Among the many comments on the event: ‘A fantastic evening’; All MAteriAl to Be sent to: ‘Top marks, Mycenae Soup’'; ‘A well deserved win for MHA'; [email protected] ‘A really good idea, brilliantly realised’; ‘Well done to the local sponsors’; ‘A lot of fun and a worthy cause’; ‘A great evening’; deadline for the december issue: ‘This event has really brought the community together.’ Mark 16th November note: dec. 2015 Johnson-Brown sums it all up: “A brilliant evening, bringing the & Jan 2016 is a joint issue. community together, and raising the profile of local groups.” “It is heartening to hear that people are getting together to offer environment editor: Maggie sponsorship to projects that were not chosen,” said Barbara Gravelle Everyone enjoyed listening to Alan King, speaking up Ward. It looks as though this event may be a regular fixture on the reporters: The community - that means Libby Rose eloquently presenting for Meridian Radio, which Mycenae House calendar: the BBC magazine recently highlighted you! cheers up patients in Queen her project – motto, “Creativity the “Soup” movement, which spreads apace not just in the UK, but for All.” Not just about sewing – environMent coMMittee Elizabeth Hospital in around the world, after its origins in Detroit. Woolwich. it was also about bringing people emily norton All queries and According to the BBC, “Soup is changing the world.” together. comments to: 020 8853 2756 [email protected] Logo design by Paul Hodge PHOTOS: [email protected] Colin Eastlaugh distriBution Myles dove & Barbara Henley, shirley Broughton, Brian carroll, roger Kidley, Joanne lucas, and patricia slade-Baker. Volunteer distributors please phone 020 8853 3740, we need your help! AdvertisinG MAnAGer Marilyn little, 163 Westcombe Hill, se3 7dp 020 8853 1312 [email protected] All adverts payable in advance by cheque to the Westcombe society. costs: displAY: Single column 6cm x 6cm: One - four issues £35, five-plus issues £30 each. Other sizes: please inquire. classified Ads (Market Place) 30p per word (A telephone number = one word. An email/ Adam Milford’s Theatre Workout uses web address = 3 words.) Deadline for all Matt Pennycook MP announced the winner: the Mental Health Activity Trust’s Gardening drama to help to improve employability adverts is 10th day of the preceding month Project. Toni Hale gave a speech of thanks, while Anna Khun and Tim Yeager look on. among young people printed by: trojan press contact the Westcombe society: Decisions, decisions . . . [email protected] Eight people presented the eight different one was a winner that night and a lot of net- publisher: The Westcombe Society projects, all designed to be of benefit to the working took place. Many in attendance gave chairman: Marilyn Little community. So, who to vote for? Many in offers of help and support to almost all those Tel. 020 8853 1312 the audience agonised over the decision. who presented their community projects – But, like the Great British Bake-Off, every- and all benefitted from the publicity. The views expressed in the Westcombe News are not necessarily those of the Westcombe Society or of the Editor. We take all reasonable precautions to protect the interests of our readers by ensuring as far as possible the bona fides of our advertisers but cannot accept any responsibility for them. Any complaints should be addressed to the advertiser. To access back-numbers (in colour) go to: Ciara from St Ursula’s Convent www.westcombesociety.org/westcombe-news/ talks about a “Bites & Bingo” Westcombe Society’s Blog: project to bring fun and music into http://westcombe.blogspot.com the lives of elderly people.

Any views expressed are those of the writers only, and are We St Co mbe So Cie t y me mbe r Sh ip Letters to the editor not necessarily those of the WN or the Westcombe Society. please send this membership form to: membership Secretary at 163 Westcombe Cllr Geoff Brighty We used Blackheath Funeral Services Perhaps I missed letters about it, but on 1 and h ill, Se 3 7Dp Blackheath Westcombe Ward (Stratheden Parade): their service was more than 2 August there had been an event called Magic WANt e D! A new membership secretary I read with great interest the WN article about excellent, friendly – and very supportive. of Thailand, the noise levels from which were the proposed cruise liner terminal at Enderby Passion Flower (Old Dover Road) provided the far worse. I went and spoke politely to them, Name...... Wharf. A member of the Council's Planning main floral tributes, and, after the funeral, the but to no effect. I also wrote to the organisers, Board, I attended the meeting which approved Royal Standard pub provided a lovely buffet to but they didn't even respond. I hope that the Address...... the scheme though I spoke and voted against. finish off what could have been a very sad day; Council do not give them a permit again...... As you report, the potential effect on local all of the above made it a true celebration of Perhaps the real issue here is that the air quality was a major issue and at the meeting Margaret Wood’s (our Mum’s) life: our Mum Council (or Councils, both Greenwich and t el...... in July I argued for deferring the decision to would have been proud and honoured to have Lewisham?) are selling out: they get nice fees e mail: ...... allow more research into the enviromental supported our local businesses. from these events, so they are prepared to allow implications, but this was rejected with six Ed: We commiserate you on the death of your excessive noise. . . Please enclose payment as appropriate: voting against and five of us voting for deferral. Mum; many thanks for your donation to the Meanwhile, we have boy racers with After excellent contributions from residents Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice. "enhanced" exhaust systems regularly using the Family membership £12 [ ] and a lengthy discussion by members of the A102 and surrounding areas as racetracks until individual membership £8 [ ] Board the final decision was six in favour with From: Name and address supplied up to 2.00am, but nothing is done about that Senior Citizens/unwaged £4 [ ] three against. There were two abstensions. I am a fervent admirer of the WN. However, I either: I started noticing it ten years ago. Of course, a cruise liner terminal could am curious to know the editorial policy that provide jobs and increase tourism, as argued. leads to the publication of Mr Allman’s puerile From: Roger Marshall St. Germans Place. However, on balance, I voted against the plan and self-congratulatory letter in September’s Last month’s WN had an almost subliminal not only as I shared concerns on local air quality WN. I know that “the Editor’s decision is final”, banner underneath its title reading “EIIR - Long but also because of the density and scale of the but . . . Fortunately, local residents have the May She Reign” and whilst I share whole heart- development required to support the scheme – good sense not to vote for him on his repeated edly your implied hope that the Queen continues which includes three tower blocks of 23, 26 and attempts to get elected to the Council. to have a long and happy life, many think that it 31 storeys. Editor: The policy is to encourage maximum is high time that she stepped down as monarch. participation by all members of the community. By tradition if not by constitution the News From: Gillian & Julie Wood Dornberg Close has always been apolitical, so with this in mind From: Peter Dempsey Hardy Rd. Our Mum’s funeral took place on Thursday 17th I greatly enjoyed going to the OnBlackheath the November issue should have a similarly September. We would very much like to record event – it had a real family vibe – but on the sized banner reading “Time For a Republic”, our praise, and thanks, for all the local services Saturday it was way too loud, audible right over “Citizen Not Subject” or “Monarchy Should Be who assisted on the day. in the Westcombe Park/Standard area. History”. Ed: What do readers think?

2 Westcombe News November 2015 November.e$S_WN.QXD 26/10/2015 11:30 Page 3 LOCAL NEWS

New sustainable energy co-operative Art Auction

pioneering co-operative, SELondon SELCE’s founding director, Dr for refugees ACommunity Energy, has teamed up Giovanna Speciale, said the community rtworks from around the world will go with an eco-friendly primary school to share offer is a first for South East London. Aunder the hammer at an International launch its first ‘community share offer.’ “There is a growing wave of community Art Auction on Saturday November 14th at SELCE launched their community share groups all over the UK who are using 1.30 - 4.30 pm in Mycenae House, offer at Eco-Schools Green Flag award renewable energy to develop locally-based Mycenae Road, Blackheath. The event has winner Mulgrave Primary School in green economies.” been organised by the Blackheath & Woolwich on Wednesday 30th September She added: “This is an interesting Greenwich Branch of the United Nations with the Mayor of Royal Greenwich, Cllr investment opportunity, it provides Association (UNA) to raise funds for Fahy, Martin O’Brian from Lewisham financial returns as well as environmental refugees in the Middle East. Among the pictures on sale: Council, Governors of the School and 25 and social ones. Everyone benefits from Lots can be viewed from 1.30pm, with Navajo sand art from New Mexico. children who are members of the schools’ this kind of community initiative: the the auction starting at 2.00pm. Items for “But international support for the tragic Eco Team. The not-for-profit organisation schools will together save approximately sale have been generously provided by victims of recent conflicts, especially aims to raise public money to install solar £358,00 over 20 years by getting clean donors, and come from many parts of the Syria, is sorely stretched, as we have all panels on four local schools. green low-cost electricity, and at the same world – Africa, Europe, North and South seen on our TV screens.” SELCE’s community share offer aims to time investors get a better interest rate than America, the Caribbean, and Asia. There “In recent years, we have held three raise £250,000 for the schools’ solar most high street banks or savings schemes. will also be a ‘silent auction’ for some of similar events which successfully raised panels. SELCE Directors intend to provide Our financial surplus will be used to the smaller items. good sums of money,” said Genia. “It’s a those who buy shares with an annual develop effective ways of reducing fuel Entrance costs £6 per person which fun way to spendBus an routes afternoon. 286, 386, 422 &108. It’s a very interest payment of 4%, and their equity poverty in this part of London. Over 20 includes a numbered catalogue plus a free good cause, andNearest we rail hope station: Westcombethat as Parkmany would be returned to them after 20 years. years we will be channelling £90,000 into More Info: Neville Grant 020 8858 8489 Viewing 1.30pm Entry by catalogue glass of wine or soft drink. Catalogue Organisedpeople by Blackheath as possible & can come – and walk£6.00 inc. free glass of UK tax payers should be eligible fighting fuel poverty in SE London.” numbers will be entered into a prize draw away with a lovely picture – and a feeling for the Enterprise Investment Scheme to SELCE has already secured separate at the end of the auction. Prizes include a that they have done a little bit towards receive 30% of their investment back via funding from EBICO Trust to run a weekly large food hamper. making someone's life less miserable.” tax relief in the first three years. “People Power Café” offering support and “This is a fund-raising event,” says “We are extremely grateful to individual Speaking at the launch Dr Dixon, Head- advice to those struggling to pay their fuel Chairman of the local branch of UNA, donors, and the Vanbrugh Community teacher at Mulgrave Primary School, said bills. Community Genia Browning. “The UN High Association and Mark Johnson-Brown, the he was delighted to be working with Centre and the Green Man Hub hosted the Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) has manager of Mycenae House, for hosting SELCE. “The team behind SELCE are all first of these in October. helped millions in the past. the event,” says Genia. volunteers and they have spent over 3000 The offer is open to anyone over 18 and hours preparing the ground for the launch runs for six weeks. The closing date of the of the share offer. share offer is midnight on Wed. Nov. 11th. Flexible work for parents “Education for Sustainable Development More information can be found on (ESD) is at the heart of Mulgrave’s ethos SELCE’s website: http://www.selce.org.uk or recent survey of stay-at-home parent’s and two outdoor spaces. The work hub is and we are extremely grateful for SELCE’s from the Microgenius sial investment Ain SE London, showed that just over onsite so parents can spend lunchtime with support in moving our sustainability for- platform: half (51%) of respondents weren’t work- their child being looked after in the nurs- ward by raising the money to install a http://www.microgenius.org.uk/project/ ing, not through choice, but because ery. More2childcare has been founded solar array at the school at no cost to us.” south-east-london-community-energy-39 childcare options were too inflexible, the with children and parents needs at its core. cost of childcare was too prohibitive, or Parents can choose highly flexible hours– Unmissable Amnesty Clearance Book Sale they couldn’t find a family friendly job. perfect for parents who work on freelance More2childcare, a new social enterprise contracts or work in shifts. in Greenwich aims to help remedy the Two free launch events outlining he actress Jean Harlow once said of the local community – and buyers from problem. The co-founders of the Bridge in what’s on offer will take place for parents her birthday: “Don’t give me a book - further afield. The church is filled with T East Greenwich Pleasaunce (Eve Daniels, on December 8th in Lovell’s Hall at the I gotta book. . . ” high-quality books at low prices. It is only Kelly Salambasis and Glenda Alexander) Forum. The first is from 10.00 am - 12 You may have “gotta book” – but there ten minutes’ walk from Lewisham National have introduced a pioneering new concept noon with a free crèche for those bringing are plenty more, absolute bargains, at the Rail and DLR Stations. to Greenwich: permanent flexible nursery their children along; the second from 7.00 Amnesty Blackheath and Greenwich The Chair of the Group, Simon Ware, care for under 5s alongside hot-desking on -9.00pm. Places should be reserved in Group of Amnesty International’s annual told the WN: “The quality of books, many site with training and career support. advance by contacting us at Lovell’s Hall, book sale on Sat. 21st Nov. at the Church of which are brand new, is very high. More2childcare will be based at the The Forum Trafalgar Rd SE10 9EQ of the Ascension Dartmouth Row SE10 9BF. There is a wide variety of bargains to be Forum on Trafalgar Road, East Greenwich This is a regular event, much loved by found, from second-hand paperbacks to and has three spacious classrooms in what review copies of recently pub- used to be Christchurch Primary school, lished novels. At our clearance book sale this year all books will be half their marked price Nettle Soup at St for the whole day.” George’s The group’s book sales, which are said to be legendary arbara Ward writes: Every by many who attend them, are BWednesday between 12.30 and . Amnesty International UK’s 1.15pm you are invited to join Rev Tim most successful fundraising Yeager for a soup lunch... event organised by a local I went to investigate ... There was a group, raising almost bustle in the kitchen when I arrived, the £300,000 over the past 40+ homemade soup was bubbling on the years. They are so popular that stove. Twelve people joined the very there is always a queue of friendly table in the nave of the church for people waiting for the doors soup, bread and cheese and delightful to open. Be there! plates of fresh fruit. What a pleasant way Amnesty International Book to spend a Wednesday lunchtime, chatting Sale10.00am-4.00pm Saturday with local parishioners and neighbours 21st November.Church of the Tea and coffee were also Ascension, Dartmouth Row, served as news notices were London SE10 8BF given. A welcome short break in one’s busy day.

BLACKHEATH CENTRE FOR SINGING

Choirs, vocal ensembles and singing lessons – we have groups and classes for all abilities. Our sessions run both daytime and evening, & are based in the lovely setting of Mycenae House. Newcomers are very welcome, and are offered a free 'taster session' in all of our choirs.

website: www.BlackheathCentreForSinging.com Tel: 07986 5828 44 email: [email protected]

Westcombe News November 2015 3 November.e$S_WN.QXD 26/10/2015 11:30 Page 4

FEATURES “What’s your favourite poem?” Samuel Pepys: Plague, Fire, Revolution Asks the poetry perfomance group Live Canon The National Maritime Museum’s esert Island Discs is one of Radio 4's to the staff. NJ Hynes then continued as new exhibition Neville Grant guilty Sunday morning pleasures. poet in residence at the station, posting D amnuel Pepys would have loved switch allegiance to Charles II, and was Hearing the great and good, the notorious new poems regularly along platform 2. riddles like the one on this page (and personally involved in the Restoration. and the accomplished choose 8 pieces of The recent September exhibition, S much of his diary reads like a riddle...) But He also lived through four wars against music to take with them to a desert island "Greenwich Station Revisited", reunited had Samuel Pepys been in office today, he the Dutch, in one of which the Medway is irresistible, filled with opportunities for the three painters and poet while adding would have been undoubtedly hounded was invaded by a Dutch fleet (a detailed humour, insight and revelation. the work of photographer Penny Matheson. out of public life by the press, for description of which is documented What music would you return to, again Penny produced a series of small persistent lechery, and bribery. in his famous diary.) and again? The powerful links between images focused on commuter's feet, Which would have been our Pepys’ Diaries are essential music and memory become clear, as well capturing the constant movement and loss, for Samuel Pepys was a documents for any historian of the as between music and mood. In a recent, transiency of the station. John Govette's highly successful civil servant: he second half of the Seventeenth programme, Dame Judi Dench mused that watercolours caught familiar ticket hall became Chief Secretary to the Century. They document both her choices were too gloomy for life on encounters, while David Weekes' black Admiralty under Charles II, and did public events such as the Great the island, and was tempted to make a and white work portrayed the platform a great deal to build up the Royal Plague of London in 1665, during last-minute substitution! with the feeling of an electric storm. Nancy Navy. He was twice master of Trinity which he moved the Navy Office to The exhibition also highlighted House, became a fellow of the Royal Greenwich, as well, of course, the Great Desert Island Poems the poem posters produced by NJ Hynes Society in 1665, and its President from Fire of London in 1666 (when he moved But there's another art form linked to Hynes and designer Paul Kley and 1684 - 1686. He was also an MP – his wife to Woolwich). However, he memory, to public and private moments of shown at the station over the past year, for Castle Rising in Norfolk in remained at his post in London immense joy and sorrow – poetry. Who bringing all of the posters together into the 1673, and then for Harwich in during both these events. could forget John Hannah reciting Auden's same space for the first time. 1679. The diary also documents less "Stop the clocks..." in the film A highlight was "The Sting of Speed and Four If he had been given a drub- salubrious episodes of his life, his ? the Solace of Motion: Railway poems from Weddings and a Funeral bing by today’s press, we would wife Elisabeth unfortunately had So it seems fitting that Live Canon has Greenwich and Beyond", a reading by NJ also have lost one of the most to cope with, many of which are decided to take the question – what poems Hynes, performing poems from her colourful characters in history. A written in code. would you take to a desert island? – and residency, and Live Canon, performing notorious gossip, a skilled musician, We are very lucky to have the turn it into a performance at Made in classic and contemporary railway poems. and a lover of fine living as well as of National Maritime Museum on our Greenwich Gallery on 3rd December. The gallery was packed, the audience women, he lived through what the doorstep, where we can enjoy a new The event begins with a conversation I warm and lively, and everyone was game Chinese would call “interesting times.” exhibition about Samuel Pepys. It opens have with the poet Blake Morrison, who for an audience-participation poem by His life spanned the reign of 6 mon- on 20th November, and continues until will share his personal desert island poem Hynes which linked "volunteer" readers as archs – Charles 1, Charles II, James II, March 25th 2016. list, and Helen Eastman, director of Live if they were standing on a station platform. William and Mary, and Queen Anne, as NMM Special Exhibitions Gallery Canon. The second half is up to us/you! The Live Canon actors were warm, con- well as two commoners, or “Lord £12.00 Adult, £10.00 concs, £6.00 Child Live Canon is now asking the public to vincing and engaging -- the poetry came Protectors” Cromwell and his son Richard. (Members free) Visit rmg.co.uk/pepys compile and share their own Desert Island alive, aided by the intimate setting of the During his lifetime, he witnessed two poem lists, submitted by email or on the gallery, surrounded by railway-inspired art. Pictured: Portrait of Samuel Pepys by John revolutions, Civil War, and the execution Hayls (1666) National Portrait Gallery. Live Canon website. Those receiving the Enter your Desert Island poem list on the of Charles 1st. Astutely, having been a Elisabeth de St Michel, Pepys' wife. most votes will be be read out by Live Live Canon website www.livecanon.co.uk/ supporter of Cromwell, he managed to Stipple engraving by James Thomson, after a Canon, all professional actors. desert-island-poems or email them to 1666 painting by John Hayls, now lost [email protected] Maritime Lecture Series on Samuel Pepys Another poetry project To Reach Me (a riddle) N.J. Hynes To accompany the exhibition, the NMM is holding a series of six lectures given by This isn't the first time Live Canon has Proceed on foot alone. Dr Robert Blyth and Kristian Martin, the curators of the exhibition. The lectures are collaborated with Made in Greenwich After leaving the falling down bridge on every Thursday, starting 29th October until December 3rd. 11.00 am - 1.00 pm (MIG) , a community art gallery which you must pass through a deep ford Tickets: £8.00 Adult, £6.00 for members. also generously supports poetry. In dine with a stubborn green witch Samuel Pepys and Greenwich September they performed classic railway climb through a maze of hills and walk east, combing the park ‘Pepys’ diary opens on 1 January 1660, and he continued writing it until May 1669, poems in a reading during the MIG when, worried about his eyes, he stopped. A frequent visitor to Greenwich in his official exhibition "Greenwich Station in Words for Charles, who weighs a ton, and wears wool and Dockers in the yard; capacity as 'clerk of the Acts' for the Navy, he lived in Greenwich 1665 - 1666 and was a and Images". great friend of another famous diarist, John Evelyn. Pepys frequently mentions the royal The exhibition revisited work from a but wool makes him itch (around his arse and all) dockyards at Deptford and Woolwich. On one occasion, he accompanied Sir Christopher residency at Greenwich station first set up so bring him silk and sweet plums instead. Wren to Greenwich, and gave advice on the construction of the Royal Naval Hospital. in 2014 by MIG's Irena Hill and Sonia Then head to the abbey in the wood Some extracts: 4 March 1664: “ ... at Greenwich, did observe the foundation laying of a Maulson at Southeastern. The original for a pint, ring the bell and feed the deer, very great house for the King, which will cost a great deal of money.” residency featured three painters, Gillian don't forget to cover one ear – if The Black Death Burroughs, John Govett and David they offer, ride their sleigh across the green 24 August 1665: At Greenwich, “dined very well and thence to look at our rooms at the Weekes, and a poet, NJ Hynes, who spent but don't dart before the cruising Ford. Kings' House, which were not yet ready for us.” Later, Pepys “walked to Greenwich, a month sketching, exploring and talking I'm waiting. Answers on a postcard, please! in my way seeing a coffin with a dead body therein, dead of the plague, laying in the MAKE Yourself HEARD! Another poem: by Rosemary Gill open close to Combe Farm* , which was carried out last night, and the parish have not appointed anybody to bury it...this disease making us more cruel to one another than if I have over 20 years’ experience teaching: MARNELS we were dogs.” The Great Fire Of London VOICE TRAINING Did you know Marnels have gone? for volume and clarity All the boys are moving on. Sunday 2 September 1666: Pepys was woken at 3.00am with news of “a great fire” in ENGLISH PRONUNCIATION They’ve been there for generations the City. Summoned to see the king, he is ordered to tell the Lord Mayor of London to for non-native speakers Meeting our wants and expectations. pull down houses to stop the fire spreading. Days later, he took his wife and gold (worth ACCENT SOFTENING I was sad when I heard the news £2,350) to Woolwich. His diary recalls “what a sad sight it was by moonlight to see the Smooth the rough edges of your accent Over the years they’ve sold me screws whole City on fire, that you might see it as plain at Woolwich as if you were by it.” ACCENTS & DIALECTS Hooks and hinges, packets of seeds, Learn a new accent! * Combe Farm A 1744 map by J Rocque places Combe Farm roughly where the A102 crosses Various concoctions to treat the weeds the Woolwich Road. A nearby road named Farmcote Road lends credence to this.Westcombe Hill [email protected] Or make the lawn grow, kill off the bugs used to be known as Combe Farm Lane (and Sheep Gate Lane on Rocque’s map) until around 07719 528065 Feed the tomatoes, control the slugs – 1900. Combe Farm, Greenwich, is the title of a book by Barbara Ludlow and Sally Jenkinson – www.davesvoicebox.com Light bulbs, candles, sticks for peas available in the Greenwich Heritage Centre price £1.50 Changed my mophead, cut my keys. I’ll miss them, feel the need to say Thank you, God Speed you on your way. Grant Saw Wealth Management Limited INDEPENDENT PERSONAL and * * * CORPORATE FINANCIAL ADVISERS The Westcombe Writers Circle is on the first Thursday of every month 2.30 - 4.30 Investments - Pensions - Estate Planning pm in Mycenae House 2 Charlton Road, Blackheath Standard Let me help you find the right words to For more information, please ring London SE3 7EX (T) 020 3417 9760 engage with your customers Rosemary Gill on 8858 5088 email: [email protected] Brochures - articles - newsletters - website: www.gswealth.co.uk. speeches - websites - blogs HELPING YOU PLAN YOUR FUTURE Contact Lee-Anne on 07557506633 Grant Saw Wealth Management Ltd. is authorised and or at [email protected] regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Choose your tools!

4 Westcombe News November 2015 November.e$S_WN.QXD 26/10/2015 11:30 Page 5

WHAT’S ON Lewisham Choral Society Arts tHe WestcoMBe societY BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS Mon 21st Dec. Carol Singing: Meet at Mycenae Sat. 14th November 7.30 pm SOCIETY, St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, House 7.00 pm. In aid of Greenwich Night Shelter. Cherubini: Requiem in C Minor Blackheath 4th Thursday of every month, 2.00 for Rossini: 3 Motets 2.30. 26th Nov. Andrew Davies The rise and fall coMMunitY of the English music hall. Social history, architec- Mendelssohn: Capriccio brillante for MYCENAE HOUSE piano and orchestra ture - and great songs. Non-members £5 Fri 13th Nov. Featuring Bob MacKay plus GREENWICH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS Mozart: Ah! Vous dirai-je maman: JazzNights Allstars and guests. Candlelit musical Variations for piano solo SOCIETY King William Court, the University of event occurring on the second Friday each month dur- Greenwich Mon 9th Nov 8.00pm Cartier 1900- ing 2015. Backed by the Phil Mead Trio, hosted by Nico de Villiers (Piano) 1939: Jeweller of Genius Talk by Judy Rudoe 8852 Dave Silk. Further information from Dave on: 7873 Non-members £8.00. Annual membership £60. 01689875683 or visit www.jazznights.co.uk Forest Philharmonic Orchestra Sat 14th Nov. 1.30 - 4.30 INTERNATIONAL ART Conductor: Dan Ludford -Thomas Wed 11th Nov. 8.00pm Ravilious and Bawden: An AUCTION raising funds for refugees. 8858 8489 Great Hall, Goldsmiths College, Artistic Friendship James Russell, a leading expert 14th NOV. 12-4.00pm HALSTOW SCHOOL Lewisham Way SE14 6NW on Eric Ravilious, is the curator of the Ravilious CRAFT FAIR, Halstow School, East Greenwich Two exhibition which recently opened at Dulwich Picture floors of top end crafts, jewellery, knitware, textiles, Tickets, inc. programme: £15, £12 Gallery. He also discusses his book The Lost soaps, baking, cards, hand made clothes, decorations, Watercolours of Edward Bawden, to be published (concs) £5 Full-time students £2 photography, art, sweets, pottery and much more Info and tickets from: soon. Recital Room, Blackheath Halls £10 ST LUKE’S PLAYERS A Cabaret Produced by www.lewishamchoralsociety.org.uk MADE IN GREENWICH GALLERY 8293 9823 Gwen Zammit at THE ASSEMBLY ROOMS The www.madeingreenwich.co.uk 324 Creek Rd SE10. Village, Charlton SE7 SAT. 21st Nov - 7pm for Autumn programme: 7.30pm & SUN. 22nd - 6pm for 6.30pmTickets: "Between Inside and Outside", a mixed rolling £13 Adults (£7 children) (inc. fish & chip supper) show running through to Christmas. bring your own drinks with glasses! Book by 18th: 10th Nov. 7.00 pm: Cinnamon Press launch of two 8856 7373 profits to: muscular dystrophy & new works of fiction - "Send" by Kay Syrad, and alzeimer’s research uk "The Disobedient Wife" by Annika Milisic-Stanley. GLOBAL FUSION MUSIC & ARTS Free work- Nov 3rd - 15th. COASTAL FRAGMENTS - Trevor Crone. Free, drinks available. shops Fortnightly Tuesday & Friday evenings 7.30 - 3rd Dec: "Desert Island Poems" with Blake 8.30 at Mascalls Meeting Rooms off Victoria Way Trevor Crone’s photos are on view at The Greenwich Gallery “The British coast has held a fascination and admiration for me Morrison and Live Canon. 7pm, £12 to include Charlton SE7 7TT: Tai Chi. Singing, Drumming, since childhood. This series of photographs is an attempt to refreshments. Booking opens 1st. November, strictly Writers’ Group, African Dance Info: 020 8858 9497 capture both the slightly quirky nature of the English seaside pre-booked tickets madeingreenwich.co.uk Poetry & Jazz Night resort and the unspoilt beauty of our coast - a project I’ve been See page 4. Friday 13th Nov. Charlton House 7.30 - 10 pm working on for almost 20 years. GFMA have been running events for Royal cHildren & FAMilY “I still use traditional film based products, preferring Greenwich Jazz joins Nigerian writer and poet, Funmi darkroom produced prints over inkjets. The craft aspect of CROOMS HILL, Adewole. Tickets from www.wegottickets.com or on photography is important to me and there is more ‘hands-on’ LONDON SE10 8ES BOX OFFICE 8858 7755 the door from 7pm. £6.00 Information: 0208 858 9497 working within the darkroom than at a computer.” Sun 1st Nov. HOW TO BE A SUPER HERO GREENWICH & BEXLEY COMMUNITY Come along to The Magician’s School for HOSPICE Join us for a game of bridge! On show at The Greenwich Gallery, Linear House, Peyton Learning is fun Superheroes and discover the power within Sat. 21st Nov. 1.00 - 4.30 pm: with /without a partner. Place, SE10 8RS Tony and Helen Othen - Administrators 12. noon and 2.00 pm At the Hospice Building, 185 Bostall Hill, Abbey Open weekdays 9:00am to 5:30pm; weekends 12:00 to 4:00pm St Olave’s is a Prep School in PANTO TIME! Fri. 20th Nov. - Wood SE2 0GB Cost: £3.00 (Coffee/tea included) (closed Sunday 8th Nov.) www.thegreenwichgallery.com New for boys and girls Sun 10th Jan. RED RIDING HOOD In support of the Hospice. aged 3-11 years Andrew Pollard marks his tenth pantomimeat Greenwich Theatre with spoKen Word a spectacular take on the classic fairy tale... ! Broad, child-centred curriculum MYCENAE HOUSE BLACKHEATH HALLS Children's Theatre ! Excellent results in the 11+ Sat 14th Nov 3.00pm Recital Room, Fri 20th Nov. 8.00 pm Laddish humour from MATT selection RICHARDSON + Jenny Collier & George Rigden £8 LITTLE BROTHER AND LITTLE SISTER GREENWICH THEATRE ! Clubs, outings and residential A classic Grimm’s tale of youthful adventure £7.00 trips SAT 21 Nov. 3.00pm THE ELVES AND THE Sunday, 8th Nov. RUBY WAX - Sane New World Based on her critically acclaimed book, US comedian Check Out Our NEW Website: wristworthheating.weebly.com ! Excellent pastoral care SHOEMAKER Recital Room £7.00 SHERINGTON CHILDREN’S CENTRE Ruby Wax helps us understand why we sabotage our ! Small classes sanity with our own thinking DAD’S STAY AND PLAY session every Wednesday ! Specialist staff for PE, IT,Music, 9.30-11.30 Sherington Childrens Centre, all Home INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SOCIETY French and Drama Dads welcome. Address: 14 Sherington Road, 17th. Nov. Enderby Wharf: History and Progress Meeting at The Old Bakehouse, Bennett Park, SE3. ! Sibling fee reduction Charlton SE7 7JW (0208 853 0900). Continues even The Greenworks, 145 Nathan Way, , London, SE28 0AB Please use the station car park. Non members £1. 0208-858-7211 ! Before and after school care in school holidays and half-term. Contact Dan Hall BLACKHEATH FLOWER ARRANGING on [email protected] for more details. 020 8294 8930 www.selondondads.org.uk SOCIETY Meets third Friday of the month in Te l : Mycenae House. Next meeting: Nov 20th Jill www.stolaves.org.uk BLACKHEATH Griffin TBA [email protected] CHRISTMAS BLACKHEATH SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY FAIR Next meeting: Nov 20th. PAUL RYAN talks on Television – Gathering the Strands: the disparate In aid of Age Exchange 2 Doors Cars, 5 Door Cars, Transit Connect, Short Wheel Base Transit, Long Wheel Base Transit and Luton with tail sources that together make a sports programme. lift available. £200.00 Security Deposit BLACKHEATH SOCIETY 100 Miles included per day SUNDAY 22nd NOV 10.30am–4.30pm Liable Excess of Collision Damage up to £500.00 we do offer a wavier Tues. 24th November: 8.00 pm Recital Room, Check out our website or call us for a full price list The perfect place to find gorgeous gifts, Blackheath Halls Prof. ANNE CURRY on AGe eXcHAnGe gourmet foods, Christmas cards and AGINCOURT (800th Anniversary of the battle); Sun Nov 22nd 10.30 - 4.45 pm CHRISTMAS Henry V & his army were welcomed on Blackheath. FAIR Great Hall, Blackheath Halls Fifty festive decorations Tickets £10.00 from the society - Studio 2 The Old superb stalls Entry: £2.00 Free to AE Friends Bakehouse 11 Blackheath Village. Pl. enc sae. tHeAtre Fri Dec 4th 12.30 - 3.30 pm The Friends Great Hall, Blackheath Halls GREAT HALL, BLACKHEATH HALLS Christmas Lunch CLARENDON HOTEL £2 | FREE for under 16s Sat 28th Nov. 8.00 pm Award-winning comedian and THE GREENWICH THEATRE Crooms Hill, SE3 ORW Music carols, raffle - book now! and Friends of Age Exchange comedy writer ANDY HAMILTON Greenwich SE10 8ES 020 8858 7755 BOOK SALES: second Sat. every month Sun 1st Nov. 7.4 30 pm THE HAUNTED DOLL’S (not August & December) 10.00am-4.00 pm. Found HOUSE Based on the story by M.R James 7.30 pm LUNCHTIME CONCERTS: the last Ticket prices: £16, Concs £13.50 Set of golf clubs Wednesday of every month by Trinity Laban SHAKESPEARE SCHOOLS FESTIVAL students. Free, but retiring collection in aid found in Glenluce Mon 2nd. -Sat 7th. Nov. 7.00 pm Each night four of Age Exchange Road a few weeks schools will perform four different Shakespeare plays. ago. Contact, info This is the UK’s largest youth drama festival and @westcombe enables over 1,000 primary, secondary, and special society.org. schools to stage abridged Shakespeare productions in their local professional theatre. 35,000 young people WAnted will take to stages across the UK. A full list of The Westcombe participating schools is available from the Box Office. Tickets: £10, Concessions £8, Groups £7 Society needs a new Membership MYCENAE HOUSE 90 Mycenae Road celebrates Secretary. For International Men’s Day with a new play more information TROUBLED MEETS THE TROUBADOUR by local playwright Andrew Ogilvie on Thu. Nov. 19th please, ring 8853 at 8pm, tickets £8 available at www.wegottickets.com 1312. Printing in Blackheath THE CASE FOR RADICAL CHANGE since 1978 From your ideas or Artwork IN EDUCATION we can print at a reasonable cost: This report was prepared by the PER Group to send to • Business cards the political parties in May. It has forewords by • Invoices • Letterheads Antony Seldon, Richard Harries and Frank Furnell. • Books • Brochures • Forms • Invites You can buy it post free if you receive • Wedding StationAry the Westcombe News for the special price of £5.00 by sending money or cheque, 1a Lizban St blackheath, London Se 3 8SS payable to PER Group, to: t el: 020 8853 2268 The PER Group e mail: [email protected] www.trojanpress.com c/o P.O. Box 16916, Blackheath, SE3 7WS

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In Memoriam “We will remember The Merchant Navy s we remember the First World War, Marine were introduced in 1919. The first them ...” Athe history books are dominated by formal use of the title Merchant Navy But how do we recover information about them? EMMA SNEAD tells us the land operations (mainly in Europe) and came with the appointment of the Prince of how we can uncover the secrets of the past at Greenwich Heritage Centre to some extent the war at sea. But almost Wales as Master of the Merchant Navy and forgotten is the part played by the Fishing Fleets in 1928. reenwich Heritage Centre are inviting Mercantile Marine. In the Caird Library reading room there Gthe public to use the extensive The National Maritime Museum’s’s is free access to most of the records that archives held at the centre to uncover the research guide (C9) explains how to use can be searched and viewed online. There secrets of the past. the facilities of the Caird Library at the you can find details of most of the men Carolyn Ayers, Heritage Project Officer NMM to research the crews and vessels of who served in the Mercantile Marine – told the WN: “Anyone can contact us to the Mercantile Marine in 1914-1918. including Frederick Parslow (below). request an initial search. We recently It also provides details of the principal More information on visiting the Caird assisted a Dutch man who contacted us to relevant records held at The National Library,and guidance on how to register find out information about a British pilot Archives (TNA) and elsewhere. and order items for viewing or copying, whose aircraft had crashed during an air Partly in recognition of the war service etc., can be found here on raid, and who is buried in the town of performed by civilians , standard uniform rmg.co.uk/researchers/library Winterswijk in Holland.” and insignia for officers of the Mercantile Mr Rhebergen told Carolyn that the town had ‘adopted’ the grave of Pilot Charles Frederick Marshall, and that each Frederick Daniel Parslow VC year local residents and school children placed flowers in remembrance. mong the stories one can unearth from By 0900, the U-39 had closed to 1½ Thanks to the work of Greenwich Athe NMM and The National Archives miles, its firing becoming more accurate. Heritage Centre volunteers, they were able is that of Frederick Daniel Parslow VC. A Parslow ordered the crew below and his to find out previously unknown informa- Master in the Mercantile Marine, he was son now steered lying flat on the deck. tion about his family and his parents’ life the first from that Service to be awarded a At 1030, the submarine signalled Parslow in . ABOVE: the grave of the aircraft in Victoria Cross. to abandon his much-damaged ship. Not Carolyn said, which Sgt Marshall flew Parslow was master of on the bridge of wanting to risk his men any further, “Charles’ father BELOW, LEFT: Sgt Marshall’s grave HM Horse Transport Anglo-Californian, Parslow rang for the engine to stop and was a local man, in Winterswijk: still tended by the en route from Montreal to Avonmouth. ordered boats to be lowered. The U-boat who worked as a local people On board were some 900 pack horses that ceased fire. clerk at the were destined for the Western Front. His wireless operator then passed a Royal Arsenal The Greenwich Heritage Centre’s The Anglo-Californian was 90 miles message that two Royal Navy destroyers and joined the archives include a great mass of material: south west of Queenstown (now Cork), were on their way. Parslow immediately Royal Field historical records, photos and information when she was attacked by a German U- ordered the boats inboard, and full speed. Artillery in about local businesses, residences, and boat, U-39. The submarine skipper had Taken by surprise, the U-boat com- August 1914. It people and their knowledgeable team are already used up all his torpedoes, so the mander opened fire again. Parslow, his is possible that able to assist anyone who wishes to find U-boat surfaced, and began to open fire. ship badly holed and on fire, decided to the descendants out more. The convoy system for Merchant ships heave to in the interests of his crew, lower- of Charles Marshall still reside in the For additional information please was not introduced until May 1917, so not ing boats. As the U-39 closed to within 50 Greenwich area and I am sure they would contact: RGHT Chief Executive Tracy only was Parslow’s ship unarmed, it was yards, the Royal Navy ships appeared and be interested to find out more about their Stringfellow on 020 8856 3951 or email unescorted too. However, Parslow gave the the submarine hastily dived and escaped. ancestor. ” [email protected] U boat captain a run for his money. He Some 33 of the Anglo Californian's crew called for emergency full speed, 14 knots, had been killed as well as 30 horses. About Royal Greenwich Heritage Trust and instructed the wireless operator to try The ship was taken into Queenstown to contact any nearby Royal Navy vessels. (Cork), where Frederick Parslow and 8 of Royal Greenwich Heritage Trust is a new charity, registered in May 2014. Capable of 16½ knots on the surface, his men are buried; 14 without a grave are The Trust and its staff and volunteers aims to help people find out about the heritage in the U-39 began to gain. Informed by his named on the national Merchant Navy our care and the wider history of the Royal borough of Greenwich, through the built own wireless operator that the Anglo- Memorial on London’s Tower Hill. assets and collections we hold. Bringing the heritage of the Royal Borough to life through Californian had contacted a Royal Navy While the Admiralty wished to recog- working with community partners is also at the centre of the Trust’s work and there are a ship, the German skipper opened up with nise the gallantry of Parslow, as a civilian, number of projects planned for the future. These will include community events and new his 88mm deck gun. he could not technically be awarded the exhibitions. Both Charlton House and the Greenwich Heritage Centre are open to the Parslow now cleared the open bridge of VC. In the end, Parslow was made a Sub- public and available for corporate and community hire. all the crew, save for the second mate, his Lieutenant in the Royal Naval Reserve in RGHT head office is based at Charlton House. Registered Charity 1157164 son, at the wheel. Parslow faced aft and May 1919.and this allowed him to be ordered a zig-zag course, staying stern-on given the Victoria Cross. His son was St George’s Garrison Church, Woolwich to the submarine. awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. John Travers Bombed in 1944 by a V1, the church is Cornwall VC Home the VC Memorial for the Royal There’s’eTher s no placeplace likelike it Artillery, who recorded 65 VCs BeingBeing able toto livelive at home can be one of the most imporimportanttant over the years. comfcomforcomfortsorts inin an olderolder person’serson’p s life,liflifee, and becausebecause familyfamily and friends Heritage of London can’tan t alwaysal’c wawaysyss be there,therey , Home InsteadInstead Senior CareCar arear heree tote t help.helpe .o Trust Operations is restoring the fine From an hour a dadayyy,, to full time care, our service is aavailablevailable 24 mosaics. It is hours a dadayyy,, se en dadaysdav ys a w t preek vide:oo vide: hoped the church (which is roofless) will become a memorial garden The paintings at the NMM are for the local often more moving than the community. PHOTO: NG photographs. In 1914, John Westcombe Park Cornwall enlisted in the navy. He became a First Class Boy Westcombe park dental practice on HMS Chester. Treatments Available At the battle of Jutland in Treatments Available May 1916, he was mortally ZoomZoom Tooth Tooth Whitening Whitening wounded in action, but remained at his post, even HomeHome InsteadInsteadad in GreenwichGree enwich is partpart of a national organisation rapidlyrapidly DentalDental Implants Implants buildinguildinb g a reputationreputationeputation as one of the UK’sUK’s leadingleading carecare companies though most of his gun crew Invisalign allowingwinallo g older peoplepeople toto continuecontinue livingliving in their ownown homes. Invisalign were dead or wounded. He died SmileSmile Makeovers Makeovers two days later in Grimsby

ToothTooth Coloured Colouring Fillings Fillings hospital, aged less than 16 and Contact us on 020 3771 8424 a half. He was posthumously Anti-Wrinkle Treatments & Dermal Fillings Unit 7, The GatGateway,wawaywae yy,, 2A RathmorRathmoree RRoaRoad,oad, London, SE7 7Q7QWW Anti-wrinkle Treatments and Dermal Fillers awarded the Victoria Cross – 13 Station13 Crescent, Station Crescent,Westcombe the youngest person ever to wwwwww.homeinstwww.homeinstead.co.uk/greenwich.homeinstead.co.uk/gr enwiche.uk/gr ® WestcombePark, London Park,SE3 7EQ London SE3 7EQ Tel. 0208 8533304 Fax: 0208 8581784 have won the VC. EachEach Home Instead Senior CareCare francfranchisehise o co cee is independentlindependentlyy oownedwned and operated. Tel. 0844 375 6996 Fax. 0208 858 1784 Located next to Westcombe Park Train Station 6 Westcombe News November 2015 November.e$S_WN.QXD 26/10/2015 11:30 Page 7

Planning applications can be viewed in the library, or at the Woolwich Library on the lower ground floor of the Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington St. They may also be viewed on www. green- ENVIRONMENT wich.gov.uk/planning More on Seibert Rd PHOTO: Patricia Slade-Baker Cllr Geoff Brighty casts new light on the issues

esidents of Seibert Road have long Next consultation Rcomplained that the boundary between The Greenwich Conservative Group’s property curtilages and the A102 did not response to the consultation on the new provide an effective barrier to sound from proposed new tunnel (see page 1) has also the Blackwall Tunnel Southern Approach drawn attention to the need for pollution Road (BTSA) I was pleased to read that and noise mitigation measures. Matt Pennycook has raised the issue with They suggest that these issues should be TfL and that my fellow-councillors have addressed as part of the proposals – though contributed. They are the most recent in of course, the problems need to be a long line of local representatives – addressed whether or not Silvertown including Alex Grant and myself – who Tunnel goes ahead. have been trying to get something done. It is of course unclear what impact if any the next round of consultations, which The petition ends on Nov. 29th, will have on TfL's The petition – a request for installation of plans, but the residents of Seibert Road are noise and pollution barriers along the A102 not holding their breath . . . containing 231 signatures, was presented Consultation documents can be found in Eleven Westcombe Society members took part in the annual Macmillan Cancer by Cllr Paul Morrissey and referred to the Public libraries; or visit: Support London Bridges Walk, raising an astonishing £972.73 for the charity. All Director of Director of Community Safety https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/ those who took part thoroughly enjoyed the walk. & Environment for investigation. rivercrossings/silvertown Spotted en route: Four horse riders on the Thames, waiting patiently for the tide The Council responded that Transport http://www.silvertowntunnel.co.uk/ to submerge them, only to be revealed again at low tide. Eerie, lovely. The Four for London (TfL) are responsible for the Horsemen of the Apocolypse? Possibly. The heads are like oilwell pump-jacks A102 and would need to approve the “This piece is about fossil fuels, which way we’re heading, and where our future installation of measures to reduce the Rail trouble lies,” says the sculptor, Jason deCaires Taylor. In the background one can see the impact of noise from the road on adjacent ore disruption to train services at London Eye, and Parliament. Are either taking a blind piece of notice? properties. For years the Council has London Bridge is scheduled from brought those concerns to the attention of M 24th December until 4th January. TfL, and their predecessors. Although services from Charlton and In June 2013 the Council wrote to Open Letter From J-J Aune Blackheath can be diverted to other Transport for London (TfL) on behalf of London termini, this is not the case with he Westcombe Park community will are not responsible for their removal. So the Residents of Seibert Road and in services from Westcombe Park and the have become accustomed to the the question then is, who is removing the response to an enquiry, from me, raised on T other stations on the Greenwich line. posters that are displayed around the area posters? their behalf. Mike Sparham, Convenor of the to advertise forthcoming events. The same thing is happening to other Greenwich Line Users’ Group, said “It is These are usually put up a fortnight posters put up by local groups. The work TfL’s past responses simply an unacceptable level of service before the event and taken down very soon of the Society is undertaken by volunteers A letter from the Council in June 2013, that a blockade of London Bridge also after. All the profits made at these events for the benefit of the locality and we hope elicited this response from TfL: means a blockade of the Greenwich line. are donated to local charities or used to that we can rely on the support of the folk • TfL accept that traffic noise levels on the Although there are ticketing arrangements fund projects that will improve the local living and working in Westcombe Park. Transport for London Road Network can in place, there is no compensation for the environment. The exception to this is the be high at certain times in certain areas extra journey time and inconvenience.” MacMillan Coffee Morning and the • The fencing which TfL are responsible A & A LANDSCAPES When there are no train services, the MacMillan Bridges Walk. for along the A102 is in good order Landscape Specialists Users’ Group has been successful in get- Posters for both of these events were • Unfortunately, TfL has no funding to ting train tickets accepted on local bus displayed locally, but on two occasions provide noise barriers as mitigation against routes from the Greenwich Line stations to they were all taken down. the same things road traffic noise; nor are they obliged to Blackheath, Lewisham and Charlton, but has happened to other recent events. Free advice & Qualified provide mitigation with further blockades inevitable until Whilst we realise that a multitude of estimates horticulturalist • at such future time as highway mainte- 2018, the Greenwich Line Users’ Group is posters can make the area look untidy, we nance requires, TfL may use low noise All aspects of soft & hard landscaping pressing Southeastern to keep the line open are careful not to display them where they surface materials on the A102 as the most work carried out including to/from Deptford when London Bridge is might cause problems, and always remove * Maintenance *Site clearance effective feasible measure available closed. them after the event. We also remove the * Turfing * Tree surgery • TfL may consider this location as well as Southeastern have also admitted there plastic ties which are used to attach them * Fencing * Patios others for government funding (DEFR) wil be further diruption from August 2016 to railings when placed there. * Brickwork from the Governments noise action plan, until January 2018 ... We have checked with our local street Tel. 020 8318 2530 but there is no commitment to this. Watch this space for further details ... cleaner and the council who all say they Susan Clark Interiors The Pointer School (Blackheath)

Susan Clark Interiors

t First class examination results t Organic food t Breakfast club and after school care (7.45am - 6.30pm) 113 Humber Rd t Christian Evangelical in ethos t Numerous extra-curricular clubs London SE3 7LW (Archery to Horse Riding) t Large variety of outdoor and PE activities Construction to complete renovation t The Brazilian Kickers – teaching football the Brazilian way Project Management • Interior Design t Holiday Club (Christmas, Easter, Upholstery • Joinery • Lighting Summer and all half-terms) Curtains • Blinds • Paint Antique Furniture • Gifts • Cards ISI Inspection - "EXCELLENT" IN ALL AREAS (HIGHEST GRADE) 2014 [email protected] OFSTED Inspection - "OUTSTANDING" IN ALL AREAS 2008 www.susanclarkinteriors.com T. 020 8293 1331 0208 305 2299 E. [email protected] W. www.pointers-school.co.uk

Westcombe News November 2015 7 November.e$S_WN.QXD 26/10/2015 11:30 Page 8

please send ads for the Market place with pay- ment by the 10th day of the preceding month to: Marilyn little, 163, Westcombe Hill, se3 7dp 8853 1312 [email protected] ALL classified adverts 30p per word. Please make cheques MARKET PLACE payable to The Westcombe Society ACCOMMODATION dAvidson plAsterinG And decorAtinG s.s.d Builders ltd. services Ceilings repaired or renovated. Artex Long established Building & Roofing Company avail- BUY LOCAL! Good reliABle Host FAMilies wanted for for- ceilings skimmed to a smooth finish. Painting and able for free estimates & advice. ALL works under- Discounts available on production of your eign students. For more info. please contact Lynne Decorating. Insurance work undertaken. C&G quali- taken, from guttering to Refurbishments. All works Westcombe Society membership card. on 01732 822649 or email [email protected] fied. Small jobs welcome. Free advice and esti- viewed within 24 hours, fully insured & new work is mates. Phone 07746 121510 guaranteed. Call us today on 07931 536533 or 0208 ROOMS FOR HIRE piAno tuner 305 1039 [email protected] BlAcKHeAtH villAGe: Prompt friendly service from an experienced, fully quali- Air conditioninG & electricAl WorK pAres FootWeAr Function rooM For Hire fied tuner technician. For tuning and repairs call Jim Fully qualified engineers CSCS 10% OFF all shoes over £20, excluding sale stock Blackheath area, up to 150 people, Bar, disabled Kimberley 0208 305 0033 Tel: 07419 312547 rAFFles desiGner WeAr. access. Tel 07940 296290 HoMeWorKs locAl cArpet cleAner 10% OFF all non-sale goods Specialist in cleaning Carpets, Upholstery & rugs. All-round handyman for those DIY’s you have no time for! tHe verB sHop 10 percent discount on all GARDENING General repairs. Painting & Decorating. General CarpentryCompetitive rates. M: 07828503132 Email: [email protected] copywriting and content creation. Free 1 hour and flooring. Flat-pack assembly. Patio and deck cleaning. assessment of your marketing material. GArden MAintenAnce: mowing, weeding, pruning, No job too small. Contact Matthew Barron 07903 388658. http://www.carpetcrew.co.uk communal garden contracts, fruit and vegetables, eXperienced locAl ArcHitect offering full electriciAn / AlArM enGineer GreenWicH: gardening tuition, RHS qualified, also domestic cleaning. range of architectural services, inc. planning and No job too small TMIET registered. Call 0787 9011792 nortH pole restAurAnt Call John and Rachel on 07746 121510 building regulations applications, technical and con- puBBle plAsterinG Need a plasterer with excel- 12.5% OFF Meals only for two HedGe And GrAss cuttinG, garden clearances struction drawings, full project management, and site lent references? Work is of high standard. Qualified 3d divinG 10% discount on all scuba diving and tree work. 0208 3097910 / 07434204673 work. Reg. with the Architects Registration Board. C&G. Plastering-Rendering-Plasterboarding - Repairs. courses. Offer excludes scuba diving equipment. Free quotes! Call Alex on 07547 468459 / 0203 092 Mob: 07853423130 E: [email protected] GreenWicH coMMunicAtion centre HOLIDAYS MArK cHeeseMAn, locAl cArpenter And 0684 [email protected] at 164 Trafalgar Road: 10% Discount on all Joiner with 30 years experience. All aspects of pHone/BroAdBAnd socKets. WHitstABle WeeKends / WeeKs Sea wall house carpentry and construction carried out considerately Improved Broadband speed plates, Fault Finding Computer Maintenance & Repairs (inc Tablets & between Oyster Warehouse and Harbour. Sleeps 5. and to a high standard. Reinstatement of Repairs, New Extensions, Tidying of cables. 25 yrs Smartphones) www.greenwichcc.com T: 02082692103 Fantastic views. 8858 6578 or 013 04 367443 original Victorian/Edwardian/Georgian details, BT, Insured. 07845 705900 nortH YorKsHire Moors The Georgian ie shutters, skirtings, plinth blocks, picture rails, HuMBer roAd: House. Delightful period house in charming cornices etc. Bespoke joinery, wardrobes, cup- TUITION BodYWorKZ - tHe Fitness clinic Pickering market town. Sleeps 10. http://www. boards, stairs, kitchens. Sash windows need Help WitH Your coMputer? 109 Humber Road.10% OFF all treatments costing thegeorgianhouse.co.uk/ Tel: 07876 385189 overhauls. Resin timber repairs. Please call Local technician provides home technical support & £30 or more except Chiropody; exc.Saturdays. House to rent Sole Rose is a charming and M: 07767 456131 or H: 020 8854 4028 tuition. No job too small, all in your own home. roYAl nepAlese restAurAnt beautifully furnished period house in the popular trAined cHiMneY sWeep & stove instAller Glenn 84734091 (Station Crescent) 20% OFF meals for two or more seaside town of Southwold, Suffolk. Situated Fast, friendly Happy to work! Call Anthony on 07772 itAliAn tuition Native Italian teacher offers les- Sunday - Thursday. within easy walking distance of the High Street, 649577 or email: [email protected] sons at all levels.Preparation for GCSE, A-LEVELS tHe curious coMB beach and pier. Sleeps 4/6. crAFtY peAr coFFee And crocHet courses, Grammar, Conversation Tel 07788 743371 10% discount on services over £30 Weekdays http://www.solerose.co.uk 07876385189 Come along and improve your crochet skills in a MAtHs & enGlisH tuition and preparation for relaxed environment whilst enjoying tea, coffee, 8am-10am, 2pm-4pm (excludes retail purchases). 11+ and independent school selection tests by quali- homemade cake and chat! Tuesdays 12.30-2.30 at coriAnder restAurAnt (Station Crescent) PERSONAL CARE & THERAPY fied and experienced teacher.marystuition.com Mary 45 Mayhill Rd, Charlton. £10 per session. Call Lisa 25% off Sunday to Thursday. Bookings only! Bauckham 07709089838 [email protected] BlAcKHeAtH Holistic HeAltH service. on 07771647618 for information or to book a place enGlisH/priMArY/11-plus tuition All ages tHe stAndArd: counsellinG, AleXAnder tecHniQue,YoGA HAve You Got tHe sKills or tiMe For diY? welcome. GCSE, A/S-Levels, Common Entrance, coton & HAMBlin - opticiAns tel: 020 8858 5969 /1991, www.bhhs.selondon.co.uk or is it all just such an effort! Primary, etc. Fully qualified, experienced teacher. £65 off complete spectacles pilAtes clAsses At MYcenAe House. if that’s your problem, i can solve it ! Call Hellin Halliday BA(Hons), PGCE on 020 8858 KArAn cHeMist 10% OFF Weds. only Mondays at 1.45pm and thursdays at 2.00pm. * Decorating including preparation, painting, 7704 / 07928 017762 to discuss how I can help. MArnells - diY 10% OFF Wednesdays All levels welcome, mats provided. Please contact wall-papering & special finishes. sHoW Your coMputer WHo is tHe Boss Hilary for further details on 07970 290818 * Re- hanging doors and putting up shelving. Well BeAn - HeAltH Goods Are you looking for some extra help working with * Re-laying floors-lino, wood laminates & ceramics. 10% OFF all purchases over £20 (no credit cards) your computer? Need some help with your digital * Domestic Electrical work. BlAcKHeAtH eYecAre centre SERVICES & TRADE photos, online shopping and the jargon? To discuss * Plumbing-taps, showers,radiators and external. 25% off 2nd pair of spectacles. (same prescription. the options, call Paul on 07958 251 448 or email JeWellerY And WAtcH repAirs And * Garden revival and maintenance Not in conjunction with any other offer. (Complete vAluAtions from Michele Franklin. British if you need help with any of these please call [email protected] glasses start from £49.95 with single vision lens- Jewellers Association accreditation 07809 502 714 tony: 0208 856 9398 M: 07961 540836 MulviHill AcAdeMY oF irisH dAnce es). 5% off contact lens solution and accessories Adult and Child Irish Dance Classes available in the [email protected] http://www.tonysdiy.com/ troJAn press 10% OFF all quotations Blackheath area. Come along for a fun-all-in-one pest control services All types of pests dealt s.s.d pluMBinG And HeAtinG workout. For more information call Rachel on with including fox control. Call John 0208 300 3496 Friendly local plumber available for free estimates and WestcoMBe Hill 07707 100521 WestcoMBe cleAners advice. All works undertaken, no job too small, from A * drivinG scHool £5 discount on the price russiAn tuition Native Russian-speaking I'm a friendly, hard working & organised domestic boilers to bathroom suites, all works viewed within 24 of one x 2 hour lesson for WS members. teacher and professor offers lessons at all levels cleaner. Regular or single services. Competitive hours, fully insured and new work guaranteed. Call tHe Wonder WoMen netWorK (including university, business, and conversation) in rates. Additional tasks. I love my clients to be happy. today on 07931 536533 or 8305 1039 ssd- Offers a 10% discount your home/office. Tel: 0766531401 Phone 07746 291617 [email protected] science & pHYsics tuition for 11+ Friendly, interior decorAtor & cArpenter upHolsterer speciAlisinG in trAditionAl WestcoMBe pArK roAd qualified teacher. Tel. Julianne 07570702536 with over 20 years experience. A member of the guild upHolsterYWww.suemayesupholstery. Karen storey of Homespace offers members BespoKe MAtHs tuition Bespoke Maths Tuition of mastercraftsman. Free quotes & friendly advice on net or phone 07932 040298 10% discount on decluttering & homestaging Free consultation and expert tuition for all levels up all your decorating requirements. Local references s.s.d dAMp prooFinG speciAlists services 0844 846 5854 www.home-space.biz to GCSE. Prep for success with dynamic and friendly available.Tel. Ashley Greaves 8858 2981 in the treatment of RISING & PENETRATING damp. graduate. Email Chloe today at peninsulA A MAn And A vAn Tel: 020 8858 3889 Repair/ renewal of rotten structural timbers as a result of [email protected] or call sHendA FAlveY personAl trAininG & Mobile: 07885 917842 damp. Chemical injection and render using tried and 07492 744609 and it’ll all soon add up! BootcAMps Free bootcamp session worth £10. pAYroll & BooKKeepinG services tested systems. Specialists in providing horizontal and elite tutors English, Maths. Science & 11+. Book to secure place (excludes existing cus- From 1–150 employees. Monthly or weekly service to vertical barriers against damp/ water All levels. Police vetted tutors. Tel. 020 3726 3105 tomers) 25% off first personal training session plus suit. Bookkeeping also available. Reasonable rates and ingress. Please contact us for a free Mobile 07789222104 free consultation M: 07887 727 335 a friendly, knowledgeable service. Please contact: consultation and written estimate. www.shendafalveypersonaltraining.com M:07946 530053 E: [email protected] Mob: 07931 536 533 Land: 020 8305 1039 decorAtinG, electrics MAlcolM tierneY, cArpenter Plumbing and Property Maintenance. Est, 25 years. PLANNING APPLICATIONS Specialist in refurbishment, repair and replacement ‘excellence‘excellence throughthrough effort’effort’ References available. Phil McNamara 8857 5480, of sash windows. 0777 5657371 JAMES REMOVALS See also http//www.westcombesociety.org/ mobile 07814 360862 t.tA electrics. JAMES REMOVALS BAR MEMBER NO. JO28 JR ..com NICEIC Approved Contractor, Quality Tradesman. All 42 HARDY ROAD, Flats A&B ref 15/2924/F electrical work undertaken, Fully Insured & Install replacement windows & French doors Guaranteed. 24HR EMERGENCY ELECTRICAL. G Fully trained 31 VANBRUGH PARK, Flats A&B ref SPECTRUM Please call Tony on 07961 509 403 OR 020 uniformed staff 84887425 OR [email protected] G Full insurance 15/2929/F Replacement windows & rear door Painters & Decorators AndreW FletcHer included in 14 SHOOTERS HILL ROAD ref 15/2765/F Painting, Decorating & Tiling services. Over 20 ALL quotes Grade II listed. Demolish side garage. Interior/Exterior G Prompt free years' experience, fully insured. References available. Construct single storey extensions, basement Call 07702 094382 estimates G No job too Small c.s. cArpentrY-JoinerY On-site parking and change front boundary Decorating and all building work undertaken. Joseph containerised Call TREE WORKS storage Clean and Reliable McNamara 8857 5480, mob. 07947155366 G 0800 0157775 89 MAZE HILL ref 15/3098/TP tAllGABles picture FrAMinG Discounts for 0800 0157775 long-term storage for a free survey or visit All works undertaken at very reasonable prices. Fell eucalyptus Free Estimates G Well-established jamesremovals.comjamesremovals.com Contact Emily on 07787 524265, @tallgables or family business toto requestrequest aa Tall Gables via Facebook 30 Years Experience G Pianos – our forte quotation online WindoW & Gutter cleAninG 020 8853 2759 Blackheath-window-cleaner.co.uk or 0795 0815412 Tel. 07791 465052 CARDS FOR r . G.Austin GOOD CAUSES Carpentry & (Established 1963 Childcare for ages 3 months – 5 years Heating Engineers, At St Alfege’s Interiors Property Maintenance, Every day from Monday Alcove Shelving/Cupboards Electrics, Painting, GAS 2nd Nov. - Friday 18th Fitted Wardrobes/Home Office Decorating, Plumbing, SAFE I can see a Dec. 10.30am – 4.30pm. Radiator covers & all household Central Heating, Open on Sundays, after woodwork great nursery the Morning Service. Shower and Bathroom Specialists Tel: 0208 852 7222/Fax: 0208 8513526 2A Hassendean Rd, Blackheath SE3 8TS from here At Age Exchange: M: 07944 294050 Telephone: 0208 858 7359 Monday 23rd Nov. to www.carpentryandinteriors.co.uk [email protected] If you’re looking for a nursery that will help your child to grow and develop – Saturday. 5th Dec. choose Zoom Nurseries. 10.00am – 4.00pm. Shop & Showroom: Sunday 6th Dec. from 128a Burnt Ash Road, Lee At Zoom every child enjoys an individual Learning Journey. A record that tracks 10.00am – 2.00pm. (near Lee Station) SE12 8PU their daily progress through our fantastic fun-filled learning environment. It’s just one of the tools we use to keep our parents up-to-date with their child’s MEfA Montessori Weekly achievements, as well as their personal, social and emotional development. It’s an important tool, one that helps us ensure that when they leave Zoom to Family Programme (during term time) at Montessori House, start school, they leave as independent learners and thinkers, ready for the 135 Westcombe Hill, Blackheath, SE3 7DP challenges ahead. All enquiries 0771 0433994 With five nurseries in Eltham, Hither Green, Blackheath and Brockley that Tuesday 3:30-5:30 After-school Nurture between them have four Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ judgements, and places available, Group @ Mycenae House Community Centre you don’t have to go far to give your child a great start. Wednesday 9:30-11:30 Preschool, 1:30- To find out more and arrange an informal visit please 2:30 Baby Montessori, 2.00:45-3:45 call Ann Briley, Assistant Childcare Director on Toddler Montessori @ Montessori House 07816 413718 or [email protected] Thursday 1:00-3:00 Montessori Or visit our website for more details www.zoomnurseries.com Afternoons @ Montessori House