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20p ISSN 1361-3952 where sold Archer July 2021 No. 327 A community newspaper for East run entirely by volunteers. New Grange homes plan at a crossroads By Janet Maitland Barnet Homes and local residents have reached an impasse over proposals to build 64 new council homes on the Grange Estate in to tackle the local housing shortage. Residents report that the ments should not destroy high/ consultation process, run by medium rated public green NormanFrancis, is not reaching spaces”. them. They are also angry that Consultation problems most of the new homes will In early May, NormanFran- be built on Brownswell Green cis corrected its mailing list, where three houses will be which had inadvertently not demolished. Residents want an included Brownswell Road or indication that this five-storey Tarling Road, and augmented block will be reconsidered. their consultation methods. They feel equally strongly Three Zoom surgeries were about the loss of green space on Tarling Road. Residents organise The consultation began last September, but it wasn’t until April that the plans became public via social media when Tidy-up team: Sasha, Mala and Mara de-litter the playground in Market Place. a resident posted that they had just been told their home may be demolished. Two Residents Associations were then con- Litter pickers out in force stituted, one for the Grange, These three youngsters are they enjoy spending time to Martin Primary School, Brownswell and Tarling Road among dozens taking action free from unsightly and are regulars at the monthly (GBTR) and the other for Tar- into their own hands to dangerous rubbish. Sasha, litter picks at the Market ling Road and Sylvester Road keep the playground where Mala and Mara, who all go Place Play Area in East (TRSR). Finchley. Since then a petition signed Picking up litter helps to by nearly 700 residents has keep our streets and parks pleas- been submitted to the Finchley ant places to be… although it and Residents would be even better if no one Forum. One demand is that the dropped their rubbish in the consultation should be based on Redevelopment: A notice to first place! Turn to page 3 for “clear principles agreed with the Grange residents the full story. community, e.g. new develop- offered. They also began to knock on doors. Just over five weeks later, a spokesperson from Barnet Homes told The Archer that only one resident had attended a Zoom surgery. They had managed to speak to Find your new home today... 38 households on their door- steps. Successful independent estate agent, established since 1992 We asked if they’d met with Residential and commercial, sales, lettings and management specialists residents whose homes may be Our friendly and helpful staff provide a professional and genuine service 40 High Road, East Finchley Our office is situated 100 yards from East Finchley Station demolished. “We have met in London N2 9PJ person as well as having phone/ www.primelocations.co.uk email correspondence,” said the Estate Agents Valuations Sales Lettings [email protected] spokesperson. Overseas Properties Management Services 020 8883 9090 Continued on page 2 • Visit us online at www.the-archer.co.uk or Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @TheArcherN2 • 2 JULY 2021 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk The Archer PO Box 3699, London N2 2DE www.the-archer.co.uk Email: [email protected] @TheArcherN2 Voicemail (messages only) 0800 612 0748 for editorial and general enquiries or 0800 612 4027 for Advertising enquiries only

Published by Editorial Team Finance & East Finchley Newspapers Diana Cormack Advertising Copy Editor Daphne Chamberlain John Dearing John Lawrence Sub Editors Distribution Production Editor Ann Bronkhorst Toni Morgan Alison Roberts Jeff Robson Jane & David Marsh Lucy Moorman Printed By Picture Editor Sharman & Co Ltd Mike Coles

Thank you to The Bald Faced Stag and New Local Cafe for providing us with a meeting place. The Archer team wishes to thank all the generous people who give up their spare time, in all weather, to deliver the paper for us. If you have a story for us, please contact us at the above address. Comments to The Archer may be published unless clearly marked ‘ Not for publication’ within the text. August: 16 July September: 13 August Copy deadlines – October: 10 September Pile ‘em high: Fruit and vegetables among the produce on sale at the Victoria Park Sunday market. Take your pick at market in park New Grange homes A new fresh produce market is taking root at Victoria Park, N3, running every Sunday from 10am to 3pm. Farm products, cakes, bakery items, beers and plenty of street food options are all available, many of them from independent traders. You’ll find the plan at a crossroads market at the Ballards Lane entrance to the park, close to the bowling green. Continued from page 1 Morgan Saunders, chair of But Rebecca Weston, chair the TRSR association, told us: of the GBTR association, told “We are disappointed that no one Monthly meeting of Can you us there had been two promises is available to discuss the con- for a meeting with the three cerns of the 109 households we households but neither had yet represent. This is disrespectful.” N2United gets steamy come about, leaving all of them “We would welcome a help us By Lynn Winton very anxious. meeting,” said Sachin Patel, Host Nick Allan opened N2United’s June online meeting Criticism of Barnet secretary of the GBTR associa- tion. “Although the pandemic with Hot in the City by Billy Idol, summing up the weather deliver? Homes has caused complications, that conditions for most at the time. It set the tone for a steamy Many thanks to all our new We asked Barnet Homes if is not a total excuse for the meeting with news and updates from a range of local distributors and deliverers they’d met with the Residents shambolic way Barnet Homes Associations. “Our understand- enterprise including KOKOS, UOE, Grange Big Local, who came forward during has approached these develop- The N2 Food Project (on Tuesdays outside the Phoenix the various lockdowns ing is that these two groups are ments.” not formal Residents Associa- Cinema) as well as new businesses including Deepsym. to make sure The Archer tions,” was the spokesperson’s More work for residents Making their regular effect on the area, especially continued to reach homes response. The GBTR association is appearance, two of our busy parking. and businesses across East East Finchley councillor organising a summer event off local councillors, Claire Far- We continues to promote Finchley. Arjun Mittra accused Barnet their own bat to display all the rier and Alison Moore, pro- some of East Finchley’s Our team of over 80 volun- Homes of losing the plot. He plans in one place and to answer vided an update on important unique shops, cafés and teers ensure that all residents said: “We have had a number questions, with the help of the local matters affecting us all creatives on our website (see are kept informed about what’s of meetings with them and read three resident members of the and news that there will be a N2United.co.uk/N2Unique) going on in our area and we them the riot act about how to Resident Interest Group, set up minor review in September to provide an insight into couldn’t manage without them. engage with residents.” by NewmanFrancis. into the cycle lanes and their the inspiration for people’s However, we are still in need businesses as well as their of a few more helpers who could connection to our community. take on one or more of the fol- PLANNING APPLICATIONS Manager of KOKOS, lowing rounds: Chris Stavrou, said: “There Barnet Council rooms in roof, comprising 25 conservatory. are not many places that have • High Road (west side, north self-contained residential units 84 Hertford Road, N2 such a unique organisation of the Methodist Church up 115 Abbots Gardens, N2 to Netherwood) Roof extension involving hip to (Use Class C3), with associated Increase of window and sky light looking after their neighbour- gable, rear dormer window with plant, car parking, cycle park- size. hood.There is so much we can • Great North Road (Mans- Juliet balcony, three front roof ing, refuse stores, hard and soft 339 High Road, N2 do together to make N2 the field Heights, Doran Manor, lights and one front roof window. landscaping, and associated Single-storey side and rear best it can be and keep people Linksview) Bald Faced Stag, 69 High Road, works. extension. buying local and keeping • Aylmer Road and Manor N2 32 Brackenbury Road, N2 4 Lincoln Road, N2 their spending in N2 and not Court Externally illuminated: two fascia Single-storey side extension, Roof extension, involving rear elsewhere!” signs, one projecting hanging following demolition of rear exten- dormer window and three front The next meeting is free • Aylmer Parade (shops and sign, one aluminium panel, one sion. Roof extension, involving rooflights. and open to all on Thursday flats above) hand-painted sign. Internally rear dormer window 1 Manor Drive, N2 8 July and will include news • Widecombe Way illuminated: one brass sign, one 7 Chamberlain Road, N2 Demolition of existing dwelling, of the N2United ‘Summer • Lyttleton Road (north side) aluminium sign, one aluminium Single-storey rear/side extension. and erection of two storey dwell- Social’ with plans for Sep- panel, six brass up/down lights, 3 Dixey Cottages, 97 Great North ing with rooms in roof space and tember and beyond. See Rounds usually take around four pewter/brass lamps, nine Road, N2 basement level. N2United.co.uk 30-45 minutes once a month aluminium lights. Part single, part two-storey side 92 Ossulton Way, N2 and papers are delivered to 5 Beaumont Close, N2 and rear extension. Roof extension, involving side your door. If you are inter- Submission of air pollution 174 East End Road, N2 dormer window and two rear Art auction ested in taking on one of these mitigation measures, pursuant Conversion of garage into hab- rooflights. An Easter auction of art rounds, or maybe helping with to planning permission dated itable space. Replacement of 71A Park Hall Road, N2 and craft works by the dropping to deliverers, please 21/03/2021. garage door with window. Single-storey rear extension with East Finchley Open Artists email us at news@the-archer. Land rear of The Bobath Centre, 18 Fairlawn Avenue, N2 new side windows. Alterations group raised more than co.uk or leave a message on our 250 East End Road, N2 Single-storey rear extension, to existing outbuilding to include £2,000 for the Homeless in Freephone line 0800 612 0748. Three-storey building plus following demolition of existing new door and rooflights. Barnet charity. Many thanks! 3 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk JULY 2021 Litter campaign is really picking up By Diana Cormack Following our front page article last month on the litter problem on our streets and in our parks, we are pleased to report that many people in the community ARE tackling it from the ground up. For example, The Friends of a snack at the end. Market Place Playground, close With their fifth litter pick to Holy Trinity Primary School, due this month, the main items N2, hold a litter pick on the last collected consist of alcohol Sunday of the month. Whilst containers, dog poo bags, sweet Barnet Council’s Street Team wrappers and fast food boxes. do the majority of rubbish clear- Cutlery, car parts and old toys ing there, they cannot always be have also been found. They ask on duty and the Friends believe you to report any rubbish like it to be very much the responsi- broken glass in the playground bility of users to keep the space to Barnet or email friendsofmar- clean, safe and pleasant to be in. [email protected] so it can be cleared up. If you’d like to join in, their next one is at 10am on Sunday 25 July. On alert: Police inspect the suspect item in the Bedford Road back garden. Park pick-ups The Playground Friends picked up some hints from veterans of the Friends of Roads closed after alarming find Cherry Tree Wood litter picks By Ann Bronkhorst Great little grabbers which have been going for It was a fine afternoon for gardening on Thursday 10 June but Solveig Feralet, of Working with the Street several years. They are held at Bedford Road, N2, was not expecting to dig up a heavy object about 10 inches long Team who provide the neces- 4pm on the second Sunday of and to face possible evacuation if it turned out to be a bomb. sary equipment along with each month. The most recent residents were not allowed to some funded by Grange Big on 13 June produced less litter venture outside. Local, the main participants because, two days previously, One neighbour was sur- are parents and children who a group of Barnet employees prised to be told that the object use the playground. Children had collected there as part of might be a mortar shell, but form 50% of the pickers, with the Great British Spring Clean after carefully cleaning it police child-sized grabbers provided week organised by Keep Britain specialists established the truth: especially for them. For safety Tidy. There are also several it was probably a heavy metal they are closely supervised, locals who regularly do their weight from the inside of an old wear gloves and watch out for own litter picks in the park. ‘grandfather’ clock. Solveig’s sharp objects. For more information visit amused response later: “Silly, Organisers say the young- friendsofcherrytreewood@ and perfect.” sters love working as a team and gmail.com The roads were reopened, feeling part of the community in Of course, if everyone everyone was safe, but in making the effort to keep their binned their rubbish or took it some parts of the world, Syria, playground clean. Plus they with them in the first place there Ukraine, for example, find- are rewarded with a drink and would be no need for litter picks. ing an unexploded device is a Closed: Bedford Road and Huntingdon Road were both closed. common occurrence and deadly Person struck by train Photo Mike Coles serious. Even here there are still By Janet Maitland occasional discoveries of UXO She was impressed by the and Huntingdon Road as the (unexploded ordnance) and it is A person was hit by a train at tube sta- prompt police response when object was in a back garden good to know that our police tion in on Thursday 3 June. They were she reported her find; they took between both roads. Children treat every report seriously. treated at the scene and then airlifted to hospital by the the matter extremely seriously, returning from school could not London Air Ambulance. “Their injuries are not believed closing both Bedford Road access their homes and curious to be life threatening,” said a spokesperson at British Transport Police. Emergency services were sent ambulances, a hazardous Music therapy tunes called to the station at about area response team and the air 3.30pm following reports of ambulance. British Transport a casualty on the tracks. The Police and the Fire Brigade also in to grant aid London Ambulance Service rushed to the scene. A new round of grants from Grange Big Local is currently Woodside Park Road was underway for community projects in the area around the A Local Handyman closed, buses were diverted and Grange estate and nearby parts of East Finchley. the Northern line was out of available for general household Just starting in-person is the sary. To sign up or for general & garden maintenance. action in both directions until enquiries email: marianne@ Uncovered: The cause of all the the all-clear was given. British Tuesday Club, a music therapy No Job Too Small workshop for young people northlondonmusictherapy.com trouble Free Estimates Transport Police said the incident is not being treated as suspicious. from the GBL area, run by Call John on: 0789 010 3831 North London Music Therapy. or: 0208 883 5325 These workshops will allow ARE YOU LIVING WITH A FEAR OR PHOBIA? Greene Driving School teenagers to learn more about Does it baffle and frustrate you? Midhurst Butchers East Finchley N2 music through lyric writing and music software, whilst learning Does it limit or dominate your life? Certified organic meat From £20.00 per hour to express their emotions in a There will be a good reason why you have this problem. at reasonable prices for 2 hr lesson safe environment. HYPNOTHERAPY CAN HELP CLEAR DISABLING Free-range poultry Safe driving for life There will be six differ- Home-made sausages ent sessions, on Tuesdays at FEARS AND PHOBIAS PERMANENTLY, Small manual Low Co2 Car 5.30pm through until 20 July (including Boerwors) USUALLY IN JUST A COUPLE OF SESSIONS. Eco & Low Maintenance Tuition at Avenue House on East End 2 Midhurst Parade, Pass Plus 4 cheaper Insurance. Road, N3. Dinner and travel Free, no-obligation, introductory chat Call or email me to find out more: M.I.M.I Fortis Green, London N10 Call John are included, and no previous [email protected] 020 8444 5498 07703 404 839 Tel. 020 8883 5303 0773 851 4406 greenedriving.co.uk experience in music is neces- www.kathrynscorza.co.uk 4 JULY 2021 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk Barnet tops the league for catalytic converter theft By Janet Maitland Cars are being stripped of their catalytic converters at a rate of three a day in Barnet, making it the worst-affected borough in London. Thefts of these valuable car parts have risen sharply across London, with nearly 15,000 cases investigated in 2020 com- pared to 9,500 the year before. An ITV News report on ously the gangs’ main hunt- full of cats and car parts was 24 March featured a Finchley ing ground lost most of their intercepted before it could be resident who left his car customers due to lockdowns. transported to Ivory Coast. to challenge four men who Organised crime controls the Fifteen men are still wanted. were stealing a converter. market, with unlicensed or How to protect your cat He’d only just made it back unscrupulous licensed scrap Park in a locked garage to his car when they came merchants extracting the or in a well-lit, busy area. towards him carrying metal metals or shipping the cats If that’s not possible, police bars. “They were so brazen,” abroad as high-value scrap. advise you to park close to he said. East Finchley resi- Three hundred police fences, walls or kerbs with the dents have alerted fellow officers carried out raids in exhaust closest to the barrier. drivers on social media after east London, Kent and Essex If your cat is bolted on, ask a falling victim themselves. in late March. Eight homes garage to weld the bolts. Con- “These criminals often were raided in one street, sider a ‘cage clamp’ which Donations, please: Dario with one of the food boxes that will be commit their offences in full where three men were arrested locks around the converter or available in every Martyn Gerrard office. view of the vehicle owners, and 18 cats seized along with install a Thatcham-approved leaving them terrorised,” said an angle grinder, £50,000 in alarm that activates if your DCI James Stanyer, from the cash and a quantity of drugs. car is lifted or tilted. Met’s motor vehicle crime In Essex, a shipping container New drop off point unit. “They’re willing to use violence if necessary, if disturbed.” Organised crime for food donations Catalytic converters (cats) East Finchley’s branch of Martyn Gerrard estate agents have become so desirable to in the High Road is to become a drop off point for dona- thieves because the prices tions to North London charity Food Bank Aid. of the precious metals they The firm has partnered with rice and toiletries are the most contain such as platinum, Jan Lovell, of the East Finchley Safer Neighbourhood the charity to support over in demand items. rhodium and palladium have Team, updates us on the latest crime news. Jan and the 12,000 people a week who Martyn Gerrard’s manag- risen. It also only takes a team can be contacted by email at: EastFinchley.snt@ require support as a result of ing director, Simon Gerrard few moments armed with a met.police.uk, or by phone on 020 7161 9014. Follow the pandemic hardships. Tinned said: “It is incredibly important jack and some basic tools to team on Twitter @MPSEastFinchley. food, long lasting vegetables, for all businesses to look to their steal one. Shed and garage security communities and see what can Residential streets are now In a recent newsletter I reminded folk about home security be done to offer support to those prime targets, ever since the advice against burglary. There have been several thefts and Boot sale who need it.” retail parks that were previ- attempted thefts of pedal cycles from sheds, garages and cycle stores. If you have a cycle, please take a look at this shed and garage security advice: back again Changes to book loan • Use bolts through the door and frame or non-return screws. The monthly Muswell • Windows should have good locks and can be secured with Hill Indoor Car Boot Sale internal diamond mesh grilles. If you never open them consider takes place on Saturday screwing them shut from the inside. rules at libraries • Use two large hasps and staples on the doors and two closed 31 July from 10am to 1pm Barnet Libraries last month announced that the auto- shackle padlocks on the outside. at Hornsey Parish Church matic renewal of items on loan was ending on Monday • Garage side and rear doors can be secured with BS3621 Hall, at the foot of Muswell 21 June. From now on, you will need to renew or return 5-lever mortice locks and two internal mortice rack bolts, at Hill on the corner of Cran- items every three weeks. This will help to reduce waiting the top and bottom. ley Gardens and Park Rd, times for popular items. •Security mark and register your bicycle with BikeRegister. N10 3AH. You can renew items: library www.barnet.gov.uk/ Secure your bike to a ground anchor. For information, phone 020 • online at https://capitadiscov- libraries/find-your-local- • Garden tools, like spades, are often stolen from sheds to 8368 8180. Admission is 50p ery.co.uk/barnet/home library lever open windows and doors. Lock away tools and equipment with refreshments available. • by phone. Call your local • or in person during opening and secure ladders as an intruder can use them to gain access. times, which you can find at Also, property mark your tools. www.barnet.gov.uk/libraries/ Finally, consider fitting an alarm to your shed or garage Japanese Acupuncture library-opening-times. either by extending your home alarm or buying one especially. You will need your library A door contact system may also be suitable and limits the risk Clinic Finchley card number and PIN to renew of false alarms. www.japaneseacupunctureclinicfinchley.com items. 1 Bedford Mews, East Finchley N2 9DF Barnet says that the Librar- Marian Fixler Fiona Hurlock Julian Ormerod ies Department is working to 07966 411582 07795 203107 07947 409809 re-introduce face to face events. Nicky Sharp Acupuncture & Moxibustion Chiropractic & Yoga Register at www.barnet.gov.uk/ librarynewsletters to keep up to date with the latest events, Osteopathy Clinic Holy Trinity Parish Church service updates and book news. 67 Church Lane, N2 0TH Cranial and Structural Osteopathy www.holytrinityeastfinchley.org.uk Emergency Denture Repair and Acupuncture We are a community who welcomes everyone and New Dentures seeking comfort and strength in love, faith, and hope. All Major Insurers Accepted We meet both in church and online. Please do 'come and see'. Holy Communion: Sunday @ 9.30 am - In Church For consultations and appointments: Bible Readings & Prayers: Sunday at 11.00 am - Online Morning Prayer: Monday to Friday, at 9.00 am - Online Telephone: 020 8815 9433 103a Golders Green Rd NW11 8EN www.nickysharposteopathy.co.uk 260 East End Road For more information please contact us: 020 87318611 Email: [email protected] Tel: 020 3565 4430 http://www.mydenturedirect.co.uk London N2 8AU e-mail: [email protected] 5 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk JULY 2021 Wildflowers and kiosk hopes: news from the Wood By Roger Chapman, Friends of Cherry Tree Wood Summer has come to Cherry Tree Wood. The work of our wonderful gardening group is paying off with the orchard trees looking good and the pollinator plants in the developing meadow area attracting a great many bees and insects. Some of the beds we look after are wrapped in woven willow wands and the yellow irises in the bog garden have been blooming well in recent weeks. The kiosk remains closed but hopefully not for much longer. There are new lessees so we hope to have a functioning café open again soon. Regular litter picking takes place at 4pm on the second Action-packed: The new basketball court in Cherry Tree Wood is well used. Photo Mike Coles. Sunday of each month and, touch wood, litter seems to be a bit more under control. It is always worth a reminder to Safety concerns over new please use the bins or, if they are full, take it home with you. The refurbished tennis and basketball courts are proving basketball court Water garden: Yellow irises extremely popular with the By Anthony Paphitis tennis courts fully booked for Extensive renovation work to improve the basketball and tennis courts in Cherry Tree long periods. Wood has been completed recently, but issues are already being identified regarding Landmarks In touch and involved the safety standards of the equipment installed. A group is working on Barnet Council spent made it less safe to use than it money is being spent properly.” improvements to the play- upwards of £120,000 on resur- should be,” Kevin said. “All Council response past and ground. Look out for a survey facing the single basketball and they’ve done is cut the back- Barnet Council has stated coming soon and if you want to two tennis courts and installing board and put new screws in that the equipment is safe for present get more involved in this work new posts and nets, following which damages its condition use and that it is looking at other drop an email to us: friendsof- calls from users to improve the and because it is outside we methods of altering the height of After mapping out some [email protected] safety and playing standards of can already see signs of rust lockdown exercise walks the hoops. A spokesperson said: The history of the Wood is the facilities. and deterioration. “The boards are safe. This issue from Sedgemere Avenue, long and varied. If you want to Although there have been “The disappointment for has been picked up as part of the N2, for himself and fellow find about it then do take a look clear physical improvements, us is because it’s an avoidable snagging for the works. We are residents, local historian at our website: https://friend- some users of the basketball mistake. The council has done working with the contractor to Tony Roberts is now sofcherrytreewood.home.blog/ court have noticed the equip- something for us and the com- find a solution that will ensure developing town trails for the-history-of-cherry-tree- ment has not been installed munity which we appreciate, the hoops are at the correct Finchley. wood/ at regulation level. Prior to but they could’ve taken stronger height and installed correctly.” Places of interest are marked To keep in touch with the redevelopment, it was agreed actions to ensure that taxpayers’ on a map and brief notes of Friends, and to become a between the council and play- each added. Some places still member (it’s free – just sign ers that the hoops, posts and exist while others have bitten up) and receive our newsletter, backboards would be of profes- the dust. Tony says it is proving contact us via our email address sional standard, to allow Cherry fascinating research and will above or join in one of our regu- Tree Wood to hold competitive take some time to complete. lar litter picks. We are always matches between local amateur He wonders if local residents on the look out for volunteers teams. can identify missing landmarks, and at the moment are looking to Installers were recalled to past or present, for him to add. improve our website and social correct the height of the hoops Take a look at his landmark media presence. We could also to the 10-foot regulation stand- walks at: www.tonero.me.uk/ do with some design skills help ard, but their attempts to fix the walksfromfinchley.htm. You for our newsletter and posters. problem caused damage to the will also find other walks there If you can spare some time for backboards. Users of the court of interest. these do let us know. have also spotted rust as a result of the backboard being cut to readjust the hoops, meaning the Festival help entire frame could be a safety The East Finchley Festival team is seeking volunteers risk just two months after being for an event set to take place in Cherry Tree Wood on installed. Sunday 5th September. Gratitude but Repairs still needed: Kevin Lukau, back row centre, with his fellow They will need dozens of helpers on the day and also require disappointment players. Photo Mike Coles. a couple of volunteers to co-ordinate and organise activities in Regular basketball player advance. If you think you might be able to help, please email Kevin Lukau, a key stakeholder [email protected] in pushing for the redevelop- ments, says he and the court’s users are “incredibly grateful” CARPENTRY & JOINERY Est 1962 to the council for making the Bespoke Built in Furniture, Wardrobes, Bookcases improvements possible but is calling for the construction Email: [email protected] company responsible to be held accountable for the renovation’s Website: www.fandcshawltd.co.uk safety problems. “The job they’ve done to Tel: 07999858816 adjust the rims has actually 6 JULY 2021 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk Garden gates to be thrown open this summer By David Melsome Some of our area’s most beautiful private gardens are being opened for visitors to enjoy once again this summer, all of them raising vital funds for worthwhile causes. First, Rachel Lindsay and Jeremy Pratt are opening their peaceful garden at 24 Twyford Avenue, N2 9NJ, on Sunday 11 July from 2pm to 6pm. Teas and plants will be on sale with all proceeds going to the National Garden Scheme charities. Then, Susan Bennett and Earl Hyde open their very spe- cial garden at 5 St Regis Close, Alexandra Park Road, N10 2DE, on Sunday 25 July from 2pm to 6.30pm. Admission is £4 (children free) in aid of the National Garden Scheme charities. Susan and Earl’s garden has a temple, a pagoda and a studio, and has featured in many TV Wow factor: Susan Bennett and Earl Hyde’s garden in . programmes over the years. You Ready to explore: Caroline and David Broome’s garden in Church may have seen it recently as an garden at 79 Church Lane, N2 as well as take part in a raffle and interview setting for Saved by a 0TH, where you can expect to buy propagated plants and shed Lane, N2 Stranger presenter Anita Rani be wowed by the profusion of art. Entrance is £4 (children to talk to Darryl Telles about Caroline’s colourful planting free) and the garden is open his upbringing in East Finchley, throughout, interspersed with from 2pm - 6pm on Sunday 1 Watch wildlife as featured in The Archer last David’s quirky ornamentals. August in aid of Combat Stress month. You can sit and enjoy home- and on Sunday 8 August in aid Finally, after a two-year gap, made cakes on the tropical patio, of the RSCPA Finchley, Gold- David and Caroline Broome are in the shade of the apple tree, in ers Green, & District in your own re-opening their award-winning the beach hut or in the sunroom, branch. watering hole By Piers Reilly Have you ever fancied yourself the next big wildlife pre- senter, a bit of competition for Sir David Attenborough? Well, why not try your hand at it, from the comfort of your own home no less. Certainly saves you the cost of a flight and safari. Last month we sug- gested creating a wild- flower meadow, this month I’m proposing a watering hole. Before you all run out to rent excavators to turn your back garden into a big pond and kidnap a hippo from a zoo, I Landing pad: Encourage insects into mean this on a slightly your garden with a simple drinking dish. smaller scale. Bring and buy: Jane’s pavement sale in full swing. All life requires water; for think of it as a bird feeder. In us this is simple to obtain, for the beginning you’ll have only wildlife, the situation is more a few visitors, then word gets Plants replace cake in pavement sale complex, especially in the out and you end up with a whole Unable to host her usual Cake Break indoor coffee morning in aid of MS Society for summer when many natural flock coming by every day. water sources cease to exist and the second year because of the Covid pandemic, Jane Marsh thought of a different This is a similar situation, just way to raise funds for this worthy cause. their choices shrink to a handful. change the water every few days Here’s where humans come in. and you’ll have your own little The result was Plants and house in the county roads. An to give their support on the day. Build it and they’ll come troupe of animals wandering by Pages, a very successful plant amazing £560 was raised via Jane thanks everyone involved Take a shallow bowl, fill it for a drink. and book sale on Saturday 22 sales and donations from friends in helping to make the sale such with water, and place it some- Have the kids write down May, in the street outside her and neighbours who turned out a success. where outside, preferably on a log of all the creatures that Multiple Sclerosis is a window ledge or a table. If come along for a drink and an auto-immune condi- possible place a twig inside as you’ve got a lovely summer East Finchley Baptist Church tion affecting an estimated a place for bees to land. Now sit project that will keep them 107,000 people in the UK. back and watch as your garden engaged and occupied for We meet each Sunday for worship at There is no cure, but advances becomes a sanctuary that you weeks. Take the exceptional in its treatment and manage- can narrate over to your heart’s example at the Long Lane 10.30 am. If you would like to join us ment are being made all the content. Pasture, where animals of all please go to our website time and fundraising plays an important part in facili- Ok, it’s a little more compli- kinds gravitate towards their for further details. All welcome. cated than that. For a few days pond, or the stream running tating this progress. To find not much is likely to happen, through Coldfall Wood, where For more information please contact the Church Office out more about MS and/or animals are suspicious as a birds and insects of all types Email: [email protected] make a donation, visit www. general rule. If it helps, then thrive off this precious resource. www.eastfinchleybc.org.uk mssociety.org.uk 7 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk JULY 2021 Greenery for everyone in the East Finchley Jungle By Piers Reilly A new initiative has come alive aiming to brighten people’s lives with free plants and care advice. East Finchley Jungle is a community group formed with the goal of bringing houseplants to all, livening up our domestic settings while providing ‘plant rehab’ services for those of us struggling to keep our greenery alive. Daisy Hale, local producer tions. Low levels of sunlight? be a part of. and artist, established the group Desiccated your last fern from Workshops on the way after realising how limited sheer neglect? Rotted roots Provided with a grant from access to green spaces was for plaguing your every step? No the Grange Big Local, Daisy some people during the year’s matter, she can find a plant hopes to reach even more resi- lockdowns. for you and provide it free of dents over the summer by hold- She says: “East Finchley is charge, straight to your door, ing workshops on plant care to full of green space, allotments with a care booklet to help you encourage more people to get in particular, but these are on your way. If your plant falls involved. To those who describe not accessible for everyone.” ill, just contact the group and themselves as plant murderers Daisy struck on the idea of they will provide advice or even she says: “Killing plants is part houseplants, which require little rehabilitate your plant for you of owning them, it is an ongoing space and can be selected based until it is healthy. learning experience that anyone on each person’s particular Loneliness over the past year can undertake.” So no need lifestyle. has been a constant for many to be put off, contact the East Advice, supply, rehab people, and the East Finchley Finchley Jungle and get learn- As an avid collector of plants Jungle aims to alleviate this by ing. You can contact them and for many years, she is full of providing a community focused find out more via their Facebook practical advice for all situa- on gardening that anyone can and Instagram pages. New leaf: Daisy Hale wants everyone to turn to cultivation. Noisy Sunday working halted at Prospect Ring By Janet Maitland Noisy and disruptive Sunday morning working by construction crews in Prospect Ring, N2, was halted after a resident complained and Barnet Council intervened. Work is currently nearing completion on road and pavement resurfacing in Prospect Ring following the construction of a new 14-storey tower block. The specified working hours within the license are Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm and Saturday 8am - 4pm. “At 8am on Sunday 6 June, were not excuses to break long- or Hill, the site contractor. We after listening to the loud con- standing environmental laws,” have spoken to the subcontractor struction noise and smelling hot said the resident. to ensure that Sunday working tarmac from four large lorries Apology from Barnet does not happen again. blocking the road, I went down “Hills will continue to inform and spoke to numerous construc- Homes residents in advance if work is “We apologise to residents tion workers to ask them to stop,” to take place on a Saturday. We at Prospect Ring that highways said the resident, who described appreciate there has been dis- works took place on Sunday 6 their reaction as “increasingly ruption to residents during the June,” said a spokesperson for aggressive”. construction of Gracie House and Barnet Homes. “These works After she left five messages apologise unreservedly for any were carried out without the on the Barnet Council noise inconvenience caused.” knowledge of Opendoor Homes complaints line, a council worker finally arrived at lunchtime and gave the construction workers 30 minutes to shut down and go. It ‘No contribution’ to school took an hour for everyone to leave. “They told me the company will next to tower block be contacted and fines explored and that being a subcontractor By Janet Maitland Construction work: Resurfacing and re-seeding underway in Prospect Ring. or behind schedule or Covid In an article in the June Archer about Prospect Ring residents’ plans to ask Barnet Homes for compensa- tion for the disruption caused by major building works A fitting memorial to their many sacrifices over the last two years we used a quote given to us by By Diana Cormack Barnet Homes. It stated that the site contractors Hill had On Sunday 6 June, 77 years after the event, the British Normandy Memorial was offi- “donated money for laptops and also labour and materi- cially opened at Ver-Sur-Mer (see The Archer, November 2019). It commemorates the als to a local school and community gardening project”. 22,442 men and women from 30 nations who gave their lives during the D-Day Land- Although the name of the Primary School said: “There ings and the subsequent Battle of Normandy from June to August 1944. Described as school was not mentioned in has been no contribution as ‘a memorial fit for heroes’, it is the first time all their names have been put together. Barnet Homes’ quote and so was yet from either Barnet Homes Last year’s scheduled open- and, after all this time, several Both sites are the respon- not used in the article, we had or the Hill Partnership to Holy ing was postponed due to the survivors were presented with sibility of the Royal British assumed this was Holy Trinity Trinity Primary School, despite pandemic, which also prevented the Legion D’Honneur. The Legion. For more information Primary School as it is next to the disruption and continuing veterans and their families from veteran soldier whose sugges- visit www.britishlegion.org.uk the site where the new tower impact of this large-scale con- travelling to France this year. So tion started the struggle for block is being constructed. We struction project right next door. a parallel ceremony enabling the Normandy Memorial to be Follow us! have since learned from Barnet “Contact has however been them to participate took place built placed his wreath at the Homes, however, that Hill was re-established following the at the National Memorial Arbo- arboretum altar made of military referring to their work with article in the June edition, retum in Staffordshire. drums, then saluted his lost col- another local school. which hopefully will result in It included moving readings leagues, an action repeated by A spokesperson for the some meaningful support to the by past and present military many others. @TheArcherN2 governors of Holy Trinity school and its pupils.” 8 JULY 2021 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk One man and his menagerie Tony Roberts tells the story of Sam Woodiwiss, a world-famous animal breeder, who once kept monkeys, exotic birds and rare breeds in kennels where Sedgemere Avenue now stands. Sam Woodiwiss lived at Sedgemere House, East Finchley, where Sedgemere Avenue now meets East End Road, from around 1888 to 1901. At Sedgemere Kennels there was room for at least 50 dogs but also an extensive menagerie with monkeys, exotic birds and a piggery for rare breeds. During this time, Woodiwiss intro- duced Dogues de Bordeaux bulldogs to Britain; his most famous dog was Baron Sedgemere, a bulldog who won Crufts in 1898 and Slippery slope: Youngsters enjoying the new nursery play equipment. sold for 350 guineas in 1899. He also co- New play area for pre-schoolers founded the Abys- Construction of a new play area in the front garden of Monkey Puzzle Nursery, opposite sinian Cat Club and East Finchley station, is now complete and the equipment is in use following thorough the National Mouse risk assessments. At the official opening the honour of cutting the ribbon was given Society. He was also a to pre-schooler Jenson who had been especially keen to start using it, asking anyone founding member and and everyone daily when it would be ready. made a life member of The children were spoken to about the safety rules, such as only going up the climbing wall the Essex Pig Society and down the slide and how many of them could use the play area at once for it to be safe. They when it was formed understood brilliantly and then finally got to enjoy the new activities, climbing, sliding and explor- in 1918. Animal-lover: Sam Woodiwiss ing with great delight. With thanks to Jenny Eracleous. Woodiwiss’s work on championships, more than 20 breeding Abyssinian cats first prizes, besides cups and was world-famed. The first specials. A most homely cat of 2. Abyssinians to appear in the immense size, and with excep- 1. National Cat Club Stud-book tionally fine sable markings, and Register were ‘Queen his pet name was ‘The Man’. Jumbo’, followed by ‘Sedge- Woodiwiss also showed mere Bottle’ and ‘Sedgemere prize goats at the Dairy Peaty’. He was an experienced Show from 1894. Besides an judge of cats, and could interest in the Toggenburg be counted among those goat he was instrumental in cat fanciers who were also firmly establishing the Anglo considered to be recognised Nubian breed as well as being authorities on dogs. the owner of the famed goat One of his cats, and another Sedgemere Faith, believed Crufts winner, Xenophon, to be the foundation female 3. of the British Alpine breed. 4. was valued at £2,000 and was probably the most decorated Find this and similar stories 5. English Short-hair in feline on Tony’s website at www. show history. He won eight tonero.me.uk/histnuggets.htm Live music for the summer A new chamber music festival has been launched in High Barnet to celebrate the start of summer and the grad- ual lifting of Covid restrictions. Located at St John the Baptist Church, High Barnet, the festival is promoting three concerts during mid-July. Artistic Director Joshua Bal- The church is a five-minute lance said: “It’s an honour to be walk from High Barnet tube welcoming such fantastic musi- station, so will be easily acces- cians to our local community, sible for East Finchley residents. Did you guess the gadgets? and after the cultural depriva- Concerts will start at 7.30pm tion of the last year it is abun- on Saturday 17 and 24 and on Here are the answers to our Guess the Gadgets quiz we printed in our June edition. dantly clear how important live Thursday 22 July. For more All the Victoria gadgets come from the collection of local resident and author Maurice music is to our mental, spiritual, information, visit www.hbcmf. Collins, who is also the co-founder of children’s charity Kith and Kids. and social wellbeing.” co.uk 1. Harmonious times in the classroom: Each prong of this tool held a stick of chalk to enable Victorian music teachers to draw evenly spaced lines on their blackboards FUN and MUSIC for BABIES and TODDLERS 2. Up with the larks: The bell on this sprung alarm clock would certainly have woken you up in N2 on TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS at 10am if you put it next to your bed. with 3. Used on the farm: This beautifully made wooden instrument is a butter churn, with a crank LIVE ACCOMPANIMENT handle making it easy to keep your butter moving. ON VIOLIN AND GUITAR at EAST FINCHLEY BAPTIST CHURCH, 4. Basic pain stopper: Fill this wooden instrument with ointment and you have a convenient Creighton Avenue and hygenic way to apply pain relief to your piles. https://www.facebook.com/teddybearsmusicclub 5. Ladies may figure this out: In a time when bell-shaped figures were all the rage, this device was worn by ladies to shape and push out their undergarments. https://www.facebook.com/SteppingStonesEastFinchley or text 07836 284538 9 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk JULY 2021

Mini-masterpieces: The Euros beer mats designed by (L-R)Israel Kujore. David Shrigley and Chris (Simpsons artist) Place your pint on a piece of art By John Lawrence Desperate home Football is back on the telly and fans are back in pubs (or pub gardens) so a new project is bringing the two together… European Championship beer mats. Famous cartoonists like Each beer mat captures one been spreading word about the carers in need of David Shrigley and Chris of those iconic images that the project through football TV, (Simpsons artist) have joined Euros are famous for, not so magazines and social media up-and-coming artists such as much the famous goals, more accounts. justice and respite Robyn Nicol and Israel Kujore in the unexpected moments that You can take a look at the full By Daphne Chamberlain contributing 20 iconic moments stick in everyone’s memory, Weird Euros collection and buy In the UK, one in three older people are carers, that’s 4.1 to the Weird Euros collection. for example Mario Balotelli’s sets or combinations at www. million in total. Four million of those say they received no unforgettable muscle flex cel- weirdeuros.com ebration after scoring for Italy respite at all during the second lockdown. 40% of carers against Germany in 2012. haven’t had a day off for more than a year, and 69% say Gordon told The Archer: Demand that their mental health has worsened because of a lack “We were down the pub and of breaks while caring during the pandemic. looking for something to do for blood Age UK says: “The pan- “There have been many for a good cause. We had a demic has taken away so times where I just want to give beer mat in our hands at the much of the help older carers up, where I wished I was dead. time and thought wouldn’t it donors depended upon. Social distanc- You just feel like you don’t be great to be able to rest your Londoners are being urged ing means carers have been know where to turn. You’ve beer on a great piece of art work. to make and keep an appoint- unable to lean on friends and just got to try and pull yourself “A friend of mine knows David ment to donate blood over family for support, and day together and cope with it.” Shrigley and in two hours the summer months as centre closures mean there are Age UK is calling for the Designer: Gordon Reid he said he’d be happy to get demand for blood creeps fewer places for carers to take Government to provide addi- involved. Then others came on back to normal capacity. loved ones and get a break tional funding to enable carers The project has been started board and we got a full set of 20. Nadine Eaton, Head of themselves. Many carers have by designer Gordon Reid, who to take a proper break, to do what The important thing is that it’s Blood Donation Marketing at also stopped getting help from they would like to do, even if lives in Heath View, N2, and all for grassroots organisations, NHS Blood and Transplant, friends in partnership with the paid care workers as they’ve that is just to sleep. so that football can be inclusive said: “We are seeing a rise in been so worried about bringing Phone and internet help adidas Football Collective and for everybody.” demand for blood from hos- is raising money for grassroots coronavirus into their homes.” The UK free Advice Line is Spread the word pitals, so we need our loyal But the pandemic has simply open seven days a week, 8am- football charities like Goals 4 Gordon and his team have donors more than ever to help Girls. made worse a desperate situa- 7pm on 0800 169 65 65. Or, if us keep hospitals supplied with tion for so many people. Caring you’re feeling lonely and want lifesaving blood. Each donation is so often a truly full-time job, a friendly chat, day or night, can save or improve up to three on duty day and night. you can call The Silver Line on lives.” Give them a proper break 0800 4 70 80 90. To book appointments, find Ricky Savage“The voice of social irresponsibility” ... Age UK has published these Find information about care your closest donor centres and quotations from older carers: “I and support, and keep informed check the latest guidance on haven’t had a complete break for about the campaign for the Gov- Covid-19 and giving blood, call All over by Christmas the last 11 years. I’m so tired ernment to recognise unpaid It was Freedom Day, a time of celebration to mark the end 0300 123 23 23, download the NHS Give Blood app, or visit that I feel like I’ve forgotten carers, at www.ageuk.org.uk of a life-and-death battle between the virus and the vaccine. how to smile.” and Twitter:@ageukcampaigns. The champagne had been popped, a public holiday declared blood.co.uk. and the fountains were flowing with lager.

People came out in their hundreds of thousands, thronging The The Finchley Charities have been providing quality Mall in cheering drunken multitudes as they threw off their masks sheltered housing in a supportive community and burned them on the massive bonfire in Hyde Park. Inside the Do you, or someone environment, across three sites in East Finchley palace, an elderly lady donned her best lilac twinset and prepared to you know need and Finchley Central. meet her people. As she stepped out onto the balcony it reminded a new home? her of that day in 1945 when her father had done the same. If you have lived in the Borough of Barnet for at As she stepped out surrounded by her children and grandchil- SLHZ[Ä]L`LHYZVM`V\YSPML^LJHUWYV]PKLOVTLZ dren, all dressed in their military uniforms like the Ruritanian high for individuals and couples aged over 55, in need of command, the crowd cheered. To complete the picture, a cry went sheltered housing and able to live independently. up across the massed gathering for the saviour of the nation to come forward. 0M[OPZZV\UKZSPRL`V\VYZVTLVUL`V\RUV^PUULLK And so, with all the reluctance he could muster, a three-times VMHUL^OVTLWSLHZLJVU[HJ[\ZVU! married father of at least six stepped forward to receive the country’s 020 8346 9464 VYLTHPS!PUMV'[OLÄUJOSL`JOHYP[PLZVYN adulation. Someone opened a bottle of champagne… but suddenly to discuss eligibility. he awoke with a start to realise it wasn’t champagne he could feel, � 020 8346 946 but the dog licking his face. � And that’s the problem with predictions: they go wrong. Back in LQIR#WKHðQFKOH\FKDULWLHVRUJ

August 1914, they all thought the war would be over by Christmas. � ZZZWKHðQFKOH\FKDULWLHVRUJ It was, it’s just that they were out by four years. It was the same with the flu pandemic that followed in 1918. Just when everyone thought the first wave was over, that virus got a second wind and kept going for another two years before fading away. So, as 19 July approaches, and with it Freedom Day Part 2, The Sequel, don’t make any plans just yet, because it may not happen. I am certain it will be over by Christmas, I’m just not sure which one. 10 JULY 2021 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk Vicki is definitely an author to watch By Daphne Chamberlain “Definitely an author to watch”: that was one of many appreciative reviews for local author Vicki Bradley’s first book Before I Say I Do, and now her second one is out. Unlike many second books, it doesn’t disappoint. Your Life or Mine is another absorbing psychological drama built round Detective Constable Alana Loxton. Loxton is still working in Walworth CID, but enjoys a reunion with four women friends who worked with her on the homicide squad that caught a serial killer. One of them insists on buying more drinks for them all, to celebrate her “last bit of freedom”. Those casual words prove Three brothers: One of the photos that will be on show at the Offshoot Gallery tragically true. One by one, all four of Loxton’s friends disappear, and she knows she Story of the pandemic on the will be next. The significance of the book’s title is revealed at the end. faces of our children Spot the clues By David Melsome Vicki is herself a DC with Second novel: Vicki Bradley A startling new exhibition of photographs running this month at the Offshoot Gallery the Met police, and a bonus of her books is the insight into things, such as giving birth to a in East Finchley is exploring how the coronavirus pandemic has changed life for our little boy earlier this year. Con- children. police procedure. Her writing is subtle. Once you’ve finished gratulations on both achieve- trait of Humanity Prize, Wolf A year ago, photographer On Wednesday 14 July from the book, look through it again. ments, Vicki! Suschiztky Prize and the Royal Bex Day lived with a friend and 6pm to 8pm there is a free I guarantee you will find clues Your Life or Mine, by Vicki Photographic Society’s Interna- her two-year-old daughter, who panel discussion hosted by Jane you may not have noticed at Bradley, is published by Simon tional Photography Exhibition had begun experiencing delays O’Rourke from Mind in Mind first. That’s part of the skill Schuster. (ISBN 978-1-4711- 163. in speech development due to a and on Saturday 24 July and with which she manages quite 8526-7) See it for yourself at the lack of social interaction. This Sunday 25 July from 10am to a small cast of characters. Offshoot Gallery in the High inspired Day to document how 12pm there are workshops on This is obviously a book Road, N2, from Friday 9 July Covid-19 was having an impact art and wellbeing for children that deals with violence, but Art trail at to Sunday 25 July. on children during the formative and young people. Find details also with compassion. Alana ages from four to 13. Workshops and on the exhibition, panel and Loxton has always been known the palace Children of Covid is full of workshops at www.minaraven. for being “good with murder”, haunting images that merge discussion com The Artists Walks 2021 On Saturday 10 July and which is why she hated her realism with surrealism taken Art Trail is running at Sunday 11 July there will be earlier demotion from the in locations chosen in part by Alexandra Palace until the workshops for children aged homicide squad. But investigat- the young subjects themselves. end of September. eight to 11 on how to draw One-act ing what has happened to good The exhibition is currently It’s a family-friendly route from photographs, running from friends has shaken her. At the shortlisted for the British around the outside of the palace 11am to 1pm. end of the book she says she Journal of Photography’s Por- plays after and grounds showing off lots of needs “some time away from beautiful and fascinating works murder”. by local artists along the way. Her fans will hope that it’s All works are on show outside, Chekhov not too long before we meet going some way to helping the Garden Suburb Theatre’s Alana again. Her creator has artists who have been unable to first post-lockdown live also been dealing with other display their work in galleries. theatre production this month will be two one-

act plays by Brian Friel All Saints’ Church, Durham Road, featuring four characters from the works of Anton East Finchley Chekhov. Church of England The Yalta Game is based on Chekhov’s short story The You are welcome to join us for: Lady with the Dog about a mar- ried man and a young married Sunday mass at 10.00 a.m. and woman who meet on holiday in Weekday masses as advertised on the website. Yalta and have a brief affair that Face masks must be worn for the time being. transforms their lives. In Afterplay, Uncle Vanya’s Or join our live-streamed services on our Facebook niece Sonya and the three sis- page: On show: Amelie’s art work ters’ brother Andrey meet by https://www.facebook.com/allsaintsef/ chance in a run-down Moscow café in the early 1920s and begin The church is also open for private prayer as to uncover long hidden truths. advertised on the website. Academy artist Both plays are at Upstairs Prayer requests are gladly accepted. Amelie C, a student in year 10 at the Archer Academy, has at the Gatehouse, had a piece of work chosen from 33,000 submissions for Village, N6. Tickets are £14 For more information, the Royal Academy Young Artists’ Summer Show online, or £12 concession. The Yalta contact the Vicar, Fr Ian Chandler, on the second year running that her art has been selected. Game is on 6, 8 and 10 July at 020 8883 9315 The exhibition will be available to view online from 13 7.30pm. Afterplay is on 7 and 9 Email: [email protected] July and some artworks will be on display at the Royal July at 7.30pm, and 11 July at or check out our website: Academy itself from 13 July to 8 August. Find out more 4 pm. Find out more at www. http://www.allsaints-eastfinchley.org.uk at https://youngartists.royalacademy.org.uk/ upstairsatthegatehouse.com

11 The Archer - www.the-archer.co.uk JULY 2021 Letters Shame of homes In praise of our parks demolition Dear Editor, Dear Editor, Once we got that horrible Regarding the May article in The wet May out of the way, our Archer I was very shocked to hear local parks came to life again in that council house planners Barnet sunny June. It was wonderful Homes are threatening to demolish to see families and individuals three houses on the Grange Estate out and about in Cherry Tree in order to create more council Wood, enjoying all it has to housing in an area where the offer. The tidied-up playground residents and home owners have a area and the refurbished tennis good community, using the playing and basketball courts make the area in Brownswell Road no doubt whole place look very smart. for games, sport and social occa- All it lacks at the moment is a sions and their children attending refreshments hut (that’s open). local schools. I would also put in a word of Should Barnet go ahead with praise for Victoria Park, off Long this proposal it will badly affect Lane in Finchley Central, and very handy for those of us living See you in court: Stormont Squash Club is open again. children and adults who have made their social life in this area at the top end of East Finchley. when most of us of any age want This also is a good looking and to experience some normality since well-used park. There are always Squash players back on court the Covid virus invaded our lives. people out exercising and there By Tony Hulse There seems to be one law for are plenty of facilities, including Squash players welcomed Monday 17 May with glee and enthusiasm. This was the councils and central London may- tennis courts, two playgrounds first time for 14 months they could go on court with multiple households and play full oralties and the recipients of those and a fully functional café. court singles and doubles squash. laws in which the aforesaid people Let’s keep using these pre- cious green spaces and look My club, Stormont, which it is safe to return to the game. We are also giving squash-only do not live. How do these ‘officials’ after them by picking up litter serves the East Finchley com- We are working to communicate membership at reduced prices square their consciences? munity, opened its doors the safety measures in place and until the end of September. We’ve already had enough of and dog doo. Julia Cooper, promptly that morning, risk to instil confidence in those who Veterans and newbies the recent so­called temporary road assessment done and safety may be hesitating. development and suggestions of Richmond Road, N2. precautions in place. We saw In addition, we are promot- welcome building flats in Underground Car The call is out therefore to enthusiasts test their mettle after ing squash in multiple ways, former squash players and to Parks in our area and the ghastly the long lay-off, not to mention as are other clubs further afield Step into newcomers to take advantage of building works opposite East endure a few aching muscles in Hornsey and North Finch- these opportunities at Stormont Finchley Underground blocking afterwards. ley, using the many ideas in in Lanchester Road, N6. Squash out all light from the Station and Our coaching team kicked England Squash’s Bounceback history is a great game and a great way no doubt from many houses in into gear quickly, the response campaign. In our case, we have City of London guide Paul to get fit. It is not just for the Ingram Road. Instead you should from juniors being particularly introduced extensive and subsi- Baker is back in business sporty: it can be played in lots concentrate on providing disabled gratifying. However, it is clear dised coaching for adults and of ways by all generations. Find access, say an escalator if not a lift with his repertoire of walks that some players are still ner- juniors, with free rackets and out more at www.stormontltsrc. or are they prevented from doing that follow the footsteps of vous and need convincing that taster sessions for newcomers. com and see you on court! this because it is a Listed Building? history through Finchley Please inform us of something and Barnet. positive so that we can remain in First on his calendar this a convenient, pleasant, neighbourly summer is a guided walk of I shared my wedding area for the rest of our lives. , a Georgian Jeanne Wray, village on the edge of the green Address supplied. belt, on Saturday 10 July. Meet week with Diana outside The Spires shopping By Diana Cormack centre in High Barnet High Forty years ago on 29 July 1981 the world watched eagerly Send your correspondence Street at 3pm. as Lady Diana Spencer climbed out of her carriage and to: "Letters Page" On Saturday 24 July, Paul walked up the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral, desperate to The Archer, PO Box 3699, will be walking the site of the see her much-discussed wedding dress. Some greeted it London N2 2DE or e-mail Battle of Barnet, dating back to [email protected] the Wars of the Roses in 1471. with delight, others with disdain. Now there is a chance Meet at the junction of the to judge it again at a special exhibition in Kensington Letters without verifiable contact addresses will not be printed. Great North Road and Hadley Palace. Contact details can be withheld Green Road, EN5, at 2.30pm. I too was watching closely and cheered and sounded their on request at publication. We reserve the right to abridge letters For fuller details, visit www. that day, but trying to learn about horns. for reasons of space. barnet-walks.co.uk or call Paul other things. Did she keep her I lived in Islington then and The cartoon owned by Diana on 07506 761294. engagement ring on or was her a local greetings card manufac- left hand bare for the wedding turer sent specially designed ring? I had good reason for this cards to any residents getting because I was getting married married that week. As well as STEWART DUNCAN that week too. My ring, like this unique souvenir we have YOUR EAST FINCHLEY OPTICIANS since 1962 Diana’s, was sapphire and dia- a framed cartoon by an artist monds, though much smaller! friend which was on display in BUY PAIR OF But it was enough to convince Liberty’s window for months GLASSES AND GET our niece that her uncle was mar- and sold many copies. It depicts PRESCRIPTION rying Lady Diana, which she Prince Charles and Lady Diana SUNGLASSES told all her nursery classmates. forcing their way through COMPLETELY My father joked that Ian and I crowds towards the cathedral. should have married in St Paul’s Celebrating soon as everything was ready in there. Of course sadly they never Maybe he didn’t know that we made it to 40 years. If it wasn’t were following in the footsteps for the present pandemic I of many famous celebrities doubt we’d have done much to through Marylebone Registry mark our ruby wedding anni- Office? Love was in the air and, versary. However, not having as we walked with our guests STANDARD CONDITIONS APPLY seen family for so long we are FOR DETAILS ASK IN STORE OR to the reception venue, drivers planning a happy gathering… in Marylebone Road clapped lockdown rules allowing. CALL 020 8883 2020 JULY 2021 PAGE 12 Your news Send your stories, letters, and photos to [email protected] or by post to The Archer, PO Box 3699, London N2 2DE. Find us on Twitter, Facebook and Insta- gram @TheArcherN2. You can view our The Archer online archive at www.the-archer.co.uk Published by East Finchley Newspapers, P.O. Box 3699, London N2 2DE. www.the-archer.co.uk Market Place: what lies underneath?

Above: Dig site: The spot in Market Place where the archaeological teams will be investigating this month. Heart of the village: A thriving Market Place around the year 1900 when it was at the centre of East Finchley life. Photo courtesy of the Layers of the past could ological Society (HADAS), This little pig went East Finchley History Project. be uncovered when an said: “We would love to hear the to market archaeological dig comes memories of local people who The Market Place takes its to Market Place in East knew the site and to introduce name from a large pig market others to the extraordinarily Finchley on the weekend which started around the 1660s. COLINSales & LettingsSCLARE rich local history of this area. By the end of the 18th century of 17 and 18 July. Do drop in at some stage on Several test pits will be Finchley’s pig market was The Brentano Suite, Lyttelton House, 2 Lyttelton Road, London N2 0EF the weekend. excavated close to the Market the largest in Middlesex, with We cover East Finchley, Muswell Hill, “The 1893 ordnance Survey Place playground, an area once market days on Wednesday and , North Finchley, Whetstone, map overlaid on a modern satel- densely occupied by buildings, Thursday. Finchley Central, Barnet, , Golders Green, lite photograph clearly indicates Archway, Islington and parts of the City. as part of a festival run by the The Walks, which abut this that a range of buildings used to Letting fee: 7% (= 8.4% incl vat) Sales fee: 1.5% (= 1.8% incl vat) Council for British Archaeol- site, is an historic series of lie under the site. The question But more importantly, a quality service to you! ogy. footways running parallel to is ‘How far back was this site Open 6 days a week The digs will operate between the High Road and originally first developed?’ We hope these 9.30 am - 7 pm Monday to Friday 10 am - 3 pm Saturdays 10.30am and 4.30pm each day, denoting the boundary between test pits will give us clearer 8535(AW)TheArcher_2ColumnAdvert:ClintonSmith_020Contact us on 7267 7727 5/2/14 and there will be opportunities Finchley Wood/Common and 07891368049 020 8444 3351 evidence to begin to answer this to be involved in washing and the early settlement known as www.colinsclare.co.uk [email protected] question.” cleaning finds, identifying what East End. A photograph, believed to is dug up and discovering more On 15 November 1940 the be taken at the turn of the 20th about the fascinating history of area was heavily bombed during this part of East Finchley. century, indicates a post office the Blitz. Many of the houses Your Roger Chapman, treasurer of and shops with homes above were destroyed. Security the Hendon and District Archae- occupying part of the site. problems ! Solved

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O2O 8442 O66O Securebase Ltd 112 High Road, East Finchley, London N2 9EB T: 020 8442 0660 F: 020 8365 2788 [email protected] Ghosts of the past: Market Place as it is today, with the old street plan superimposed on top www.securebase.co.uk

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