News from your council November/December 2017

Countdown to Christmas Fun free events this December

In bloom success Green spaces win Gold HOAC agreement Council to relocate centre

CHRISTMAS OFFERS OUT NOW EVENT HIGHLIGHTS advertisements Primary school admissions Do you have a child born between 1 September 2013 and 31 August 2014? If so, you must apply for a school place by 15 January 2018 For full details, key dates and to apply online, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ schooladmissions Need advice on how to apply? We will be holding information sessions for parents/carers For more information, visit our website or call 01895 556644

www.hillingdon.gov.uk/schooladmissions

Are you receiving single person discount on your council tax? The spotlight is on you if more than one adult is living at your address. Don’t wait for that knock on your door Call us today 0300 123 1384 You can be prosecuted for a false claim If you suspect someone of falsely claiming single person discount call 0800 389 8313 or email [email protected]. Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can be given anonymously.

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Single person discount half page HP ad amended.indd 1 16/10/2017 16:37 2 November/December 2017 people

Contents November/December 2017

▸ Cover stories

▸ 9 HOAC agreement secured s we begin to look forward to the festive season and Council successfully negotiates agreement with the start of a new year it is pleasing to be able to HS2 Ltd to take over the responsibility in relocating report that Hillingdon Council is continuing to provide Hillingdon Outdoor Activity Centre. A facilities and services to our residents that are the envy 12 Government puts an end to RAF Northolt of those who live in other boroughs. Our policy of sound speculation financial management is also enabling the council to continue Military station will not be turned into a commercial investing in high quality services and facilities going forward. airport. In this edition of Hillingdon People you can read about ▸ 14 Open House Weekend brings history to life how we were able to reverse a government decision Record number of visitors receive exclusive access to not to provide replacement facilities for the Hillingdon four of the borough's historic sites. Outdoor Activity Centre (HOAC) and the negotiations with ▸ 16 Celebrating Hillingdon's horticultural success HS2 that have enabled us to secure £26.5 million to take Parks and green spaces win Gold in London in Bloom. over the responsibility for designing and implementing a scheme for the relocation of HOAC, which marks a ▸ 18 Countdown to Christmas this December See what events and activities are on our significant milestone in allowing this facility to continue. advent calendar. We have also gained assurances from the Ministry of Defence that the scaremongering rumours regarding 20 Help us make a positive effect on the environment the future of RAF Northolt were not true and that the Festive tips to help you start a new year of recycling. decision taken in 2013 to retain it as a military airfield 24 Seek help to leave an abusive relationship will not be revisited and that Flybe who made unsolicited A Hillingdon resident shares their story of domestic approaches has been told that this will not be considered. abuse to help others. At our last Assembly for Older People various council Regulars teams spoke to residents about fraud and scams. Recent court cases have highlighted how our joint investigations 4 Hillingdon News 31 What's on? have led to the conviction of fraudsters for attempting 29 Volunteers 35 Contacts to scam vulnerable residents and profiting from the sale COVER PHOTO: A LIVE REINDEER AND HANDLER, WHO WILL BE IN of counterfeit goods. We are also running road safety UXBRIDGE TOWN CENTRE AS PART OF OUR COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS. events to encourage young people to drive safely and working alongside our partners to encourage people to seek help to leave an abusive relationship. Providing support for families and young people is another of our priorities. We are continuing to assist families on a low income with free childcare for two-year-olds, running 14 17 a mentoring scheme for young people, and our last FIESTA programme was once again popular with families. The council celebrated further horticultural successes in the London in Bloom competition, winning Gold and the Large City category (see page 16) and residents' efforts were rewarded in our annual Hillingdon in Bloom and 18 23 Autumn Show competitions. Our Open House Weekend and the Culture Bite arts and literature festival welcomed Advertising deadline for next edition: Friday 24 November. record numbers of visitors, and as we count down to Editorial and advertising enquiries Christmas the council is offering events and activities Emma Gilbertson 01895 250828 this December to help you get into the festive spirit. [email protected] Finally, I would like to wish all Hillingdon residents a www.hillingdon.gov.uk/hillingdonpeople merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. After reading, please recycle this magazine

Published by London Borough of Hillingdon © 2017 Hillingdon People, 3S/05 Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. Design Corporate Communications Printed by Warners Midlands PLC Products and services advertised in this magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the council. For a copy in large print or as an Cllr Ray Puddifoot MBE audio version call 01895 250828 LEADER OF THE COUNCIL

November/December 2017 3 news Free Christmas parking This December, residents pay and display ticket, can shop locally with or paying for parking in free weekend parking the Cedars and Grainges in Hillingdon in the car parks, to ensure you lead-up to Christmas. don't get charged. Use your HillingdonFirst On the festive bank card to enjoy free parking holidays (Christmas Day, in council-owned car Boxing Day and New Year's parks and on-street Day), parking at each of parking bays on: the council's car parks and • Saturday 2 and on-street parking bays Sunday 3 December will be free for everyone • Saturday 9 and (residents and visitors). Sunday 10 December The HillingdonFirst card • Saturday 16 and also offers discounts at a More festive lights set to Sunday 17 December range of local businesses, sparkle this December • Saturday 23 and which may help you with Sunday 24 December your Christmas shopping. The council will once again and on the forecourt Remember to take your For more information be installing festive light of the Civic Centre. card with you and follow about the HillingdonFirst displays in Hillingdon's town Uxbridge town centre the instructions on the card and how to apply for centres and high streets to lights will be switched on machine's yellow label one visit www.hillingdon. spread Christmas cheer. on Sunday 19 November when purchasing your gov.uk/hillingdonfirst. There will be additional and the Civic Centre lights in more areas forecourt on Friday 1 this year, with Eastcote, December. Hayes lights Glebe Estate, Harefield, will be switched on on Harlington High Street, Wednesday 22 November. Harmondsworth Road Leader of the Council, (Sipson), Harmondsworth Cllr Ray Puddifoot, and Sipson, Hayes, said: "This year we will Hillingdon East, Ickenham, be investing more than Northwood, Northwood £156,000 to light up your Hills, Ruislip, Ruislip local high streets and town Manor, South Ruislip, centres for Christmas. I Uxbridge, Yiewsley, West hope that residents enjoy Drayton and Kingshill these displays and the Avenue in Charville all festive celebrations." receiving funding. The council is also The council will also organising a range of install Christmas trees in events in the run-up Eastcote, Harefield, Hayes, to Christmas. For more Uxbridge town centre information see page 18. New tea dances for over-65s at Yiewsley and West Drayton A new monthly tea dance an opportunity to keep Tuesday 6 has been introduced at active, learn something new February Yiewsley and West Drayton and make new friends. from 2pm Community Centre to The tea dances are to 4pm, and meet increasing popularity suitable for beginners and more event for these free events in the intermediate dancers, or dates are now borough and allow more for those who just want available to older people to take part. to enjoy the atmosphere. book online. This tea dance will offer Light refreshments are Regular over-65s the chance to learn available, and places can tea dances a variety of dances from be booked online with are also classic ballroom to Latin and your HillingdonFirst card. held at the sequence dancing, with The next dances at the Civic Centre, Uxbridge, For more information, line dancing every second centre will be held on and the Winston visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ month. The events are also Tuesday 5 December and Churchill Hall, Ruislip. teadance.

4 November/December 2017 news Two criminals convicted of preying on elderly residents Two men were found a two-year sentence charged for modern "Financial abuse includes guilty on 12 September at suspended for two years. slavery and other crimes. theft, fraud, exploitation Nottingham Crown Court The Rooneys Following on from the and pressure in connection for preying on vulnerable deliberately befriended police investigation, the with wills or property and elderly Hillingdon elderly residents and council took steps to financial transactions. If residents, following a joint attempted to scam them safeguard other residents you suspect that anyone in investigation by the council out of their homes, who had been targeted Hillingdon is being abused, and Lincolnshire Police. assets and life savings. by similar scams. please report it so we John Rooney was The council worked Leader of the Council, can take the appropriate sentenced to 15 years closely with Lincolnshire Cllr Ray Puddifoot, action to protect them." and six months in jail for Police to identify similar said: "We will not tolerate You can report abuse conspiracy to require a cases around the any type of abuse on confidentially by emailing person to perform forced country connected to our residents, and these reportabuse@hillingdon. or compulsory labour, the Rooney family, and despicable people gov.uk or calling Hillingdon conspiracy to defraud, fraud it later transpired that deliberately targeted Social Care Direct on by false representation and several of the criminally vulnerable elderly people 01895 556633. If you two counts of theft, and organised gang members with a view to financially think a crime has taken Martin Rooney received had been previously abuse and exploit them. place, dial 999. Art in the Park returns Scores of budding artists took to the borough's parks during the last weekend of September for the council's latest outdoor creative art sessions. 'Art in the Park' took place in Hayes End Park, Cranford Park and Eastcote House Gardens between 29 September and 1 October. The sessions gave residents the chance to draw, paint or sculpt al fresco while using some of the borough's beautiful Green Flag parks as inspiration. With autumn in full swing, there was plenty to get the creative juices flowing. TESTING EFFICIENCY Edyta Radlinska, who did some painting in Hayes Cllr Jonathan Bianco with End Park, said: "I love this park and the way it changes the bin at Ruislip Lido. throughout the seasons. Having sons, I'm used to being creative, and when I was invited to do some art, I thought 'why not?' I think it's a very nice idea." High-tech compacting bins 'Art in the Park' has proved popular with residents since to be trialled in Hillingdon it was first launched in the summer, with more than 50 people taking part during the course of the weekend. The council is trialling new high-tech 'BigBelly' bins at The latest events were held as part of Culture Bite, the four litter hotspots, where current bins fill up quickly. council's autumn festival of arts, literature and culture. The units, which use solar power to compact litter to provide eight times more capacity, were installed at Ruislip Lido, Rockingham Recreation Ground, Little Harlington Playing Fields and Manor Farm in October for a period of six weeks to investigate whether they have a successful impact on collections. The bins are able to send an email to the council's parks cleansing team when they need emptying, making collections more environmentally friendly and time efficient. They also have secure lids to prevent animals from getting inside or items being blown in the wind. Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Business Services, said: "We're committed to improving the environment for all who live, work and visit Hillingdon and trying out new technology where we think it can improve efficiency. "We will carefully monitor this pilot scheme and see if 'BigBelly' bins help us to tackle recycling and waste at some of our busiest hotspots and if they will be a helpful future addition for our parks and street scene."

November/December 2017 5 news Counterfeit online DVD seller Court orders filthy Hayes ordered to pay back £77,000 restaurant to pay £20,000 A rogue trader, who made 11-month jail sentence, Chef's Corner, in Dawley and its director Nirmal an estimated £102,000 suspended for a year, Road, Hayes and its Pounj pleaded guilty to four from selling fake DVDs on and must do 200 hours of director Nirmal Pounj offences, including failing Ebay and Gumtree, has unpaid community work. were prosecuted by the to put in place food safety been told to hand over The hearing concluded council and ordered procedures, not ensuring £77,800 of his proceeds, a three-year investigation, to pay nearly £20,000 staff were trained, not following an investigation where the council seized after repeatedly ignoring keeping the premises clean by the council's trading 265 counterfeit DVD box warnings to improve their and not putting procedures standards team. sets of TV shows including standard of cleanliness. in place to control pests. Syed Rizvi, 32, from Spring Breaking Bad, Game of During a series of checks, The company was Promenade, West Drayton, Thrones and Sons of environmental health officers fined £12,000, Pounj was who is believed to have Anarchy from Rizvi's home discovered numerous fined £5,200 and they originally bought the DVDs in March 2014, and later problems, including a were jointly ordered from China, received the discovered he had been failure to remove old to pay costs of £2,318. order during a sentencing trading under multiple mouse droppings from the Cllr Philip Corthorne, and confiscation hearing at online identities since 2013. kitchen floor, surfaces and Cabinet Member Isleworth Crown Court on Cllr Douglas Mills, storage areas. Staff were not for Social Services, Monday 18 September. Cabinet Member for washing their hands and Housing, Health Taking into account his Community, Commerce food was left in freezers and Wellbeing, available assets, the judge and Regeneration, that were not switched on. said: "Environmental ordered Rizvi to pay said: "Piracy is not the Inspectors gave the health officers spent a £67,800 within victimless crime people restaurant a food hygiene considerable amount of three months sometimes think it is; it rating of '0' - the lowest time and effort trying to or face undermines genuine grading possible and help and advise Mr Pounj going to trade, starves the creative despite extensive help and but in the end were left jail for a industries and costs the advice from the council, with no alternative but to year. The UK economy millions conditions did not improve. take court action. We hope court of pounds each year. Appearing at Uxbridge this sends a clear message also We hope this successful Magistrates' Court on 21 to other businesses that awarded result will send a clear August, Actmore Limited we simply won't tolerate costs of message to other people (operator of Chef's Corner) anything that puts £10,000 to who sell fake goods that residents in harm's way." the council, we are serious about Concerns about hygiene which Rizvi must protecting businesses at a venue that prepares or pay within six months. and consumers, and we serves food can be Rizvi, who previously will do whatever we can reported to the Food pleaded guilty to to ensure that criminals Standards Agency on possessing counterfeit do not benefit from the www.food.gov.uk/ goods, also received an proceeds of their crimes." enforcement/report-problem.

Wildlife photos featured in new garden centre calendar The Rural Activities Garden Centre (RAGC) in Hillingdon has produced a calendar using wildlife photographs taken by volunteer gardeners. The 2018 calendar, which features pictures of flowers, trees and insects, is available from the RAGC for £5. All the proceeds will go towards the running of the centre. It's the first time the garden centre, which provides supported employment and volunteering opportunities for residents with additional needs, has produced a calendar. The images were taken by the volunteer gardeners during a six-week photography course in the summer. The RAGC's reputation as a grower and seller of high quality produce has steadily grown since it opened in 1981. The site also boasts tea rooms, run by Hillingdon Autistic Care and Support and an ornamental garden, both of which are open to the public. For more information visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ragc. Follow the team on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ruralactivitiesgardencentre.

6 November/December 2017 news Extension provides community centre with new toilet facilities Hayes and Harlington submitted an application to UK Islamic Mission and borough, so that residents Community Centre has the council, explaining that Hillingdon Tamil Community can use and enjoy these received new toilets disabled people would Centre. Local residents much-loved and valued thanks to the council's particularly benefit from also hire out the space for amenities. Hayes and Chrysalis programme. an extension as those using meetings and functions. Harlington residents will The council has created the hall had to make their Cllr Douglas Mills, now benefit from more a new extension at the way to another part of the Cabinet Member for spacious and modern front of the building to centre to use the facilities. Community, Commerce toilets and the work has provide additional toilet The centre is regularly and Regeneration, said: also improved access for space at the hall for users, used by a variety of "Ongoing investment in people with disabilities." including people with community groups, such our Chrysalis programme For more information on disabilities. Mark Collins, as Hillingdon Carers, The continues to improve and the Chrysalis programme from Hayes and Harlington Alzheimer's Society, Hayes upgrade council-owned visit www.hillingdon. Community Association Town Women's Institute, community facilities in the gov.uk/chrysalis. New sow and grow library initiative reaps success Yeading Library celebrated twice a month, as more its community garden's people attended. first harvest with a The group celebrated party in September. their first harvest with Branch manager, a garden party buffet Paramjit Chander containing homegrown New tune for landmark recognised an opportunity courgettes, potatoes, to create a community onions, chillies, herbs, Record Store building garden at the library last tomatoes and apples. NICOLA ZOE NICOLA November, as the green Rachel, who coordinates At the end of September, 200 car parking spaces and space in their garden the group, said: "We have The Record Store building storage for 87 bicycles. was unused. She worked a great mix of people re-opened at the Old The Old Vinyl Factory with resident, Rachel joining us and it is really Vinyl Factory site in Hayes. site of 16,722.5 square Moustafa to set up the buzzing with people The 7,746 square metre metres was first used from initiative, which will help attending each time." high-spec office space 1907 as the headquarters of local residents improve If you would like to joins three completed His Master's Voice (HMV) their health and wellbeing, join Yeading Sow and buildings on the site, which and EMI. At the launch socialise and learn new Grow contact the library is undergoing a major £250 event, the local community horticultural skills. on 01895 556060. million regeneration by was invited to see the new From the outset, The scheme is now specialists U+I to create site and enjoy carnival rides, volunteers of all ages growing, with Hayes End a new quarter for Hayes, refreshments, stalls, live attended the informal Library also starting a group combining new business, music and a vinyl market. group, dropping in on a in the autumn. Anyone leisure and homes whilst A newly commissioned 5.5 monthly basis to decide interested in retaining the site's musical metre-tall Nipper the dog what to grow and nurture joining can call and architectural heritage. statue (the icon of HMV), the plants. In June they the library on The art deco landmark, a tribute to the heritage of increased their gardening 01895 one of the oldest buildings the site, was also unveiled sessions from once to 277043. in Hayes, was originally by the Mayor of Hillingdon. designed by Wallis Gilbert Scheduled for completion and Partners and where the in 2022, the scheme masters of every EMI album comprises 14 new or were pressed. It has been refurbished buildings. It will extensively refurbished be home to more than 630 and modernised by homes, more than 70,000 award-winning architects square metres of commercial AHMM, maintaining some space, a three-screen of the original design cinema, shops, museum, features and offering restaurants, gardens and a companies a dynamic university technical college. space to work in a great For more information visit location. It also features www.theoldvinylfactory.com.

November/December 2017 7 news New sports programme targets inactive children A new multi-skills sports The aim of the project programme was run in was to get more inactive the autumn to encourage young people engaged in more young people to physical activity. Inactivity get physically active. is classed as doing less Are you looking after The initiative, which was than three hours physical funded by Sport England, activity per month, which someone else's child? ran for eight weeks during excludes school sport and September, October walking or cycling to school. The council is asking person is privately fostered. and November at young Cllr David Simmonds, residents to come forward The child may have moved people's centres for Cabinet Member if they or someone they to England for education children over the age of 11. for Education and know is looking after a child or may be living with a The young people decided Children's Services, said: who is not a close relative. friend's family following which sports they wanted "Our multi-skills sports If a child under the age problems at home. Private to play in each session programme was a great of 16 (under 18 if disabled) fostering also applies to and included dodgeball, opportunity for young is cared for by someone teenagers living with the football and basketball. people to get fit and active who is not their parent family of a boyfriend or As well as taking part whilst having fun. Physical or a close relative for girlfriend, or children whose in different group sports, activity has many health more than 28 days, then parents lack time to care participants learnt problem benefits for young people, they are living in a private for them due to study solving and decision and team sport is a great fostering arrangement. or work commitments. making skills, and the ability way to learn new skills Legally, anyone living Close relatives are to work as part of a team. and make new friends." in a private fostering defined as step-parents, arrangement must notify grandparents, brothers, the council immediately. sisters, and immediate uncles The council will then or aunts. This does not apply ensure that the foster home where the child is placed in is suitable and offer advice foster care by the council. and support to safeguard To notify the council the wellbeing of the child, of a private fostering and support the carer. arrangement, call 01895 There are many reasons 556644 or email lbhmash@ why a child or young hillingdon.gov.uk. Annual events urge teen drivers to stay safe and stay alive The annual Safe Drive Stay have been affected by Alive road safety events, poor decisions made which use hard hitting behind the wheel. real life experiences to Cllr Keith Burrows, warn teenagers about Cabinet Member for the perils of dangerous Planning, Transportation driving, will return to and Recycling, said: "Most Hillingdon this autumn. teenagers dream about Students from 18 local passing their driving tests schools and sixth forms and getting out on the will be attending the roads with their friends. Winston Churchill Hall, But the lack of experience Ruislip, between Monday and newfound confidence 27 November and Friday that often goes hand in 1 December to watch free to attend and can be Members of the hand with gaining some a series of educational booked online on emergency services independence from parents films and live speakers. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ will describe some of can be a lethal. Therefore A special performance safedriveevent. the tragedies they have it's vital we educate for members of the general Each performance will encountered, and parents youngsters to take care, public will be held at last for an hour-and-a-half of accident victims and slow down, and speak up the same venue on 30 and will be followed by an former teenagers will if you're a passenger in a November at 6.30pm. It is opportunity to ask questions. explain how their lives car and you feel unsafe."

8 November/December 2017 environment Agreement secured to relocate activity centre The council has successfully negotiated an agreement with HS2 Ltd to take over the responsibility in relocating Hillingdon Outdoor Activity Centre (HOAC) to allow residents to continue to benefit from this exceptional recreational facility.

he HS2 Act, which received royal assent in February, Tconfirmed that the route from London to Birmingham would travel directly through the HOAC site on a large viaduct. As far back as 2011, when the route was being refined, both HOAC and the council robustly maintained that HOAC could not coexist with HS2 on their current site, which was the original proposal. After long deliberations and a robust approach by the council this was finally accepted in late 2014. A site in Denham Quarry was identified and a planning application submitted in June 2016 AGREEMENT SECURED with the aspiration of having the Leader of the Council, Cllr Ray Puddifoot; HOAC Principal, new facility in place by October Neil Maddock; Boris Johnson MP and Nick Hurd MP. 2018 when HOAC would be required to vacate its existing site. expensive and that HS2 would work of our MPs Boris Johnson and HS2 had costed the new facility revert to its 2011 position of saying Nick Hurd, the council managed at £26.5 million and agreed to pay that HOAC would continue to to get HOAC back on the agenda that sum but shortly after submission operate on its current site once the and discussions commenced. of the planning application viaduct had been built across it. Council officers, including the announced that they had reworked Leader of the Council, Cllr Ray Borough Solicitor, Raj Alagh and the costings, which they then Puddifoot put forward the suggestion Ian Thynne, Principal Environmental estimated to be £56 million - more that if HS2 could not provide new Officer worked tirelessly through than twice the original amount. facilities for £26.5 million then if they draft after draft of the proposed The Secretary of State wrote would give the council this money - agreement and Cllr Puddifoot had to HOAC informing them that at we would. This suggestion was numerous telephone conversations £56 million the scheme was too declined but through the sterling and meetings with HS2 officials.

Cllr Puddifoot said: "In all my years as Leader of the Council, I have never come across such a difficult organisation to do business with. But again, with input from Boris Johnson and Nick Hurd we eventually got an agreement signed on 17 August. "As we have now secured funding of £26.5 million, I have asked for Cllr Jonathan Bianco to proceed with the reprovision of facilities for HOAC in the Denham Quarry or elsewhere. HS2's dithering has made it an enormous task to get something ready by October 2018 and next summer we may have temporary buildings - but at least HOAC now has a realistic chance of being able to continue, which it would not have had without the unwavering support of the council and local residents."

November/December 2017 9 older people Supporting older residents The council continues to put residents first by ensuring that older residents are kept informed and engaged through our regular Older People's Assemblies.

eld every three months, session, and people could raise any these popular events give queries and seek help and advice. Hresidents aged over 65 an Jean Barrett, 72, from Hillingdon, Leader of the Council, Cllr opportunity to find out about said: "We like to come to the Older Ray Puddifoot, said: "These local services and have their say. People's Assembly, so we can keep up meetings are invaluable for More than 80 older residents to date with things on offer for older over-65s. They enable residents came together at the last assembly residents and put our views across." to find out about a range of in the Council Chamber at the Civic Rita Topkins, 81, from Uxbridge, said: services and share their views Centre, Uxbridge, on Tuesday 26 "It is a social thing for me and I learn a lot and opinions in an open, friendly September, where the theme was about what is going on in the borough. I and social setting. They also help 'Combating fraud and rogue traders.' didn't know I could get my TeleCareLine the council to gather and listen The council's trading standards team alarm free until I came here." to feedback, so we can continue talked about the services they offer Brian Dear, 81, from Hayes, said: "The to put our residents first." residents and they presented role council is very good and it looks after plays on scam scenarios. Adult Social older people. We have been attending Care outlined the support available for a few years now and come to find to victims and vulnerable residents out what's going on in the borough." To book your place or for and the client financial affairs team The next two assemblies will more information, visit provided financial help and advice. be held on Tuesday 5 December www.hillingdon.gov.uk/opassembly i There was also a question and answer and Tuesday 27 March. or call 01895 277038

If you spot a scam or have been scammed, call Hillingdon Trading Standards on 01895 250164 to report it and get help and advice.

10 November/December 2017 older people

All-singing, all-dancing Older People's Day The council held a successful free through old favourites. There was event on Monday 25 September also a collection of unusual historic ahead of International Older People's objects for residents to guess their Day, which enabled over-65s to use or reminisce about the past. find out about the wide range of Dorothy Curtis, 74, from Hillingdon, services available in Hillingdon. said: "This was an excellent and Residents were invited to speak really nice day. I came here for the with the council about adult learning entertainment and there is so much courses, reablement, dining centres, to see and do. My partner died four libraries, sports and physical activities. years ago and I now use opportunities Around 20 local organisations, including like this to find out information, Hillingdon4All, Prostate Cancer UK, exercise and meet other people." the Alzheimer's Society and Hillingdon Barbara Kalopsidiotis, from Mind, were also at the event at the Hayes End, said: "There is always Pavilions shopping centre, Uxbridge. something new to find out for Special activities and entertainment, yourself or a friend by coming including line dancing, seated to these types of event." football taster sessions and live Sue Furzer from Hillingdon4All, musical performances, kept everyone said: "It was a fabulously busy day entertained. The dementia coffee and we have engaged with many morning group sang Edelweiss, potential service users, who would Yellow Submarine and Let It Be. Bus have been unlikely to seek out Pass to Broadway, a group of over- support independently. Many thanks 60s, sang and tap-danced their way to the council for arranging the day."

For more information on services for older people visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/olderpeople i

Raising awareness locally of Polymyalgia Rheumatica PMRGCAuk had a stand at our of 50 but the average age is 72. For more information, support or Older People's Day event and Are you having difficulty turning advice visit www.pmrgca.co.uk or call the charity would like to continue over in bed, getting in and out of 0300 111 5090. to raise awareness locally. the chair/car or even combing your Janice is also keen to talk to any When resident, Janice Maddock hair? Is it worse in the morning local organisation or group that began suffering from crippling pains and then eases during the day? would like to hear more about PMR and stiffness in her neck, shoulders and If you put it down to old age, and GCA. To arrange a visit email back four years ago, she presumed it this may not be the case. PMR is a [email protected] or call was down to the stress of caring for rheumatic condition of the older 0300 999 5090. her elderly mother who had recently person that causes pain, stiffness passed away. Yet, very soon everyday and tenderness in the large muscles life became almost impossible. around the shoulders, hips and When she eventually sought help back. Poly means many and myalgia from her GP she was diagnosed with means muscle pain and it can be Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) a managed very well with the help condition she had never heard of. of steroids. It can also lead to She is now working on a voluntary another rheumatic condition, Giant basis on behalf of PMRGCAuk to raise Cell Arteritis (GCA) which causes awareness of this relatively unknown inflammation of the arteries and, if condition that results in more than untreated can make you go blind. 40,000 new cases each year in the If you think that you may have UK. It affects people over the age PMR or GCA speak to your doctor.

November/December 2017 11 environment Government puts an end to RAF Northolt speculation The Ministry of Defence has quashed claims that RAF Northolt is set to be turned into a commercial airport.

12 November/December 2017 environment

ocal residents had raised under Project Ark and Project Noah. concerns with the council Those reports were not designed Lregarding speculation that simply to open the floodgates – no planned runway improvements in pun intended – to civil movements 2018 were to enable the airport to at the station, but rather to analyse receive passenger commercial planes. the various available options... Speaking at a Westminster Hall Further consideration was given to debate on Wednesday 13 September, one Project Ark option that had the The Parliamentary Under- potential to increase civil use of the Secretary of State for Defence, military aerodrome to up to 20,000 Tobias Ellwood MP put an end movements, to generate additional to the rumours, stating: "I begin... revenue from the under-utilised by paying tribute to those who are spare capacity. That, in turn, would connected with RAF Northolt – the benefit taxpayers by offsetting the community around RAF Northolt, costs to the taxpaying public of the who for many years have been so station's military operation. However, supportive of the aerodrome, and Ministers took the final decision the personnel of RAF Northolt. It is to increase the self-imposed cap not just an aerodrome, but a vibrant, on civil movements to only 12,000 the station in future. Alongside the core military station, with over 1,800 movements per year. That was BAe 146 military airframes based personnel based across 33 diverse implemented in April 2013...there there, a number of European allies units, from all three of the armed are no plans to revisit that decision. operate medium airliner-sized services and wider government. "Following the review decision, the military aircraft into RAF Northolt Alongside 32 (The Royal) Squadron Project Ark report and other review on military business. The RAF C-17 undertaking VIP and operational documents were archived and the and A400M Atlas are the largest command support flying, there are project's other options remained types of aircraft that visit the station. many other major units at the station hypothetical. I assure...residents of the "In conclusion, RAF Northolt remains in ground roles. An Army bomb area that no current active planning a core station with many diverse disposal squadron, the British forces is looking at any further changes to units. The aerodrome is needed post office, the Service Prosecution that 2013 decision about the cap or by the military every day and is Authority, an aeronautical publication the operating terms and conditions. valuable for contingency, as we saw and mapping centre, two RAF bands The unchanged, stringent terms and during the Olympics and the Ebola and an operational RAF regiment conditions that have been in place outbreak. A decision on its future unit, which also encompasses the for civil movements for many years use was taken in 2013, and we will not ceremonial Queen's Colour Squadron, mean that in future we will not attract revisit that decision. After the military are all based at the aerodrome. any aircraft larger than those that runway works are complete and the "I turn to the aerodrome itself...It we have accepted for decades. runway reopens, nothing will have is used and needed by the military "It was against these terms and changed: the same stringent terms and every single day. It is true that for conditions, which were reaffirmed conditions on civil movements that a number of decades it has been in 2013, that Flybe made an have been in place for many years and under-utilised in that role. Since the unsolicited bid in 2015. No meetings that were reaffirmed in 2013 will remain 1980s, RAF Northolt has accepted up about RAF Northolt have been in place. The MAA and the CAA to 7,000 business aviation movements held with any commercial airlines, continue to employ robust oversight per year, but that was done under but in late 2015 and early 2016, and assurance of civil aviation activity." stringent terms and conditions to Ministers corresponded twice utilise the spare capacity. For that with the chief executive of Flybe very reason, from 2011 to 2013 we to inform him that his bid was conducted an extensive value-for- not being considered further. Leader of the Council, Cllr money evaluation of RAF Northolt's "...The runway resurfacing project Ray Puddifoot, said: "The future utilisation. Wide-ranging at RAF Northolt aims to make Minister's statement echoes my options were considered, including improvements as required to upgrade previous statements that there selling the aerodrome off as a existing military runway end safety was no truth in the rumour civilian licensed airport, devising features and extend the life of the that RAF Northolt would shared civilian and military usage main runway pavement to between start to receive commercial to better maximise revenue, and 10 and 15 years. This planned life passenger carrying jets and retaining the aerodrome in military cycle replacement works in line that residents were being hands – although that would leave an with the safety cases for the military unnecessarily scaremongered. irreducible spare capacity. I impress aircraft that operate from the station. It also re-affirms that the on the Chamber that those were I repeat firmly that the aim is not to resurfacing project is merely simply options that were considered. accept bigger commercial aircraft, to provide the runway with "While the review was going on but to ensure that the runway has the much-needed improvements in 2012, the Ministry of Defence strength to accept the larger military to extend its life cycle." commissioned a series of reports aircraft that may be required to visit

November/December 2017 13 events History comes to life across Hillingdon

Record numbers of residents and visitors came together to celebrate and discover Hillingdon's heritage during Open House London Weekend on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September.

he council, community groups and volunteers Tworked in partnership to give attendees free and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to four of the borough's historic sites. Manor Farm At the Manor Farm complex in Ruislip, more than 2,000 members of the public explored its unique collection of historic buildings and immersed themselves in living history throughout the weekend. Activities and events included guided tours of the Grade II listed Farm House, a talk on the history of Ruislip Woods, a pop-up cinema in the tournament demonstrations. Visitors more about this on page 17. Community Hut showing historic film tried their hand at crossbow shooting, The Sunday evening saw footage of the borough, exhibitions viewed a variety of medieval objects bestselling historical novelist, and demonstrations. Children also and tales of medieval valour and Michael Jecks, launch this year's proudly posed with the crowns, courage were shared with young Culture Bite festival, with a talk swords and shields that they had children. When hunger struck, the Duck about his latest medieval mystery created in The Stables crafts workshop. Pond Market's vendors provided tasty novel A Murder too Soon. Read all In the Great Barn, medieval dances refreshments and the chance to take about Culture Bite on page 23. were led by the beautifully-costumed away examples of local handicrafts. and quick-footed Nonsuch History On the Saturday afternoon, the Cranford Park and Dance group, accompanied Great Barn hosted Hillingdon's The Grade II listed stable block by a live period soundtrack Autumn Show competition, where and secret garden at Cranford Park from the K'antu Ensemble. our green-fingered residents welcomed nearly 150 visitors, who The Milites de Bec's Norman showcased their homegrown came to learn about its history and encampment on the remains of the fruits, vegetables and floral admire the beautiful surroundings. Norman motte captured the audience's arrangements and handmade In the stables, Cranford Park Friends' attention with their lively archery and artwork, jams and pickles. Read historian Christopher Luetchford

14 November/December 2017 events

shared historical from the Friends information of Eastcote House with members Gardens shared of the public. St information about Cllr Richard Lewis, Cabinet Dunstan's Church, the buildings and Member for Culture, famed for its led a tree walk. Heritage and Central monuments and In the park, Services, said: "It's been fantastic bells, provided there were a range to see so many residents, visitors refreshments and of community and organisations enjoying stories to the stalls, selling spring and exploring some of the steady stream bulbs and plants, borough's historic buildings of visitors who Asian foods, tea, at this year's Open House came to find cake, raffle tickets, London Weekend. Hillingdon out more about corn dollies and has a range of heritage sites, the church and its medieval past. more. Visitors were also treated to which residents are welcome a classic car rally and a display of to visit throughout the year." Eastcote House Gardens more than 20 vintage vehicles, with At Eastcote House Gardens, the their owners on hand to provide Grade II listed 16th century stables interesting information about them. building and 18th century dovecote and walled gardens were open to the Battle of Britain Bunker general public to explore. Volunteers At the Battle of Britain Bunker, Discover more interesting places Uxbridge, more than 350 visitors to visit at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ were treated to a sneak preview of placesofinterest i the council's new exhibition and visitor centre, which generated real excitement about the new facilities, ahead of its public opening next spring. They also participated in guided tours of the bunker itself.

November/December 2017 15 environment Celebrating horticultural success The high standard of the borough's parks and green spaces was recognised this autumn, with new Green Flag raising ceremonies and a collection of award wins in the London in Bloom competition. Residents were also rewarded in our Hillingdon in Bloom and Autumn Show competitions.

Communities celebrate Hillingdon's five new Green Flags Flag raising ceremonies took place during September and October at the council's five new Green Flag sites. For the fifth year running, Hillingdon has been awarded more Green Flags (47) than any other local authority in the UK. Residents, community groups and officers from the council's green spaces team attended the ceremonies, which recognised their hard work and featured a speech of thanks from Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Business Services. The Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Carol Melvin helped Cllr Bianco to raise each flag. Centre: Southlands Arts Centre Clockwise from top left: Long Meadow, The Gravel Pits, Coney Green and Cherry Lane Cemetery Blooming summer as Hillingdon retains overall Gold award For the second year in a row, the As Hillingdon People went to print the borough was rewarded for its council was eagerly awaiting the Britain horticultural efforts, retaining a in Bloom results, which were due to be i prestigious overall Gold award announced on Friday 27 October. Look in the 2017 London in Bloom at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/bloom, Twitter competition at The Art Pavilion @Hillingdon and Facebook The London in Mile End in September. Borough of Hillingdon for these results This is the fourth time that Hillingdon has won Gold in this competition and the borough was once again named Cllr Bianco, said: "The council winner in the Large City category. is delighted to have won Gold Eastcote House Gardens won Park overall once again and it was of the Year, Gold for its walled garden great to see so many of our parks and Gold in the Our Community award and green spaces triumphing for the Friends of Eastcote House with individual Gold awards. Gardens. West Drayton Cemetery was "I would once again like to awarded Small Cemetery of the Year. thank our community of green spaces officers, residents and Breakspear Crematorium won Gold were also awarded to Poors Field for volunteer groups, as it's down to in the Large Cemetery category. Common of the Year, Long Meadow their hard work and dedication The Rural Activities Garden Centre for Large Conservation and Ruislip that our green spaces have won Gold in Small Park of the Year. Lido for Large Park of the Year. Stockley excelled and are attractive for our The Polish War Memorial Garden Business Park also picked up a Gold residents and visitors each year." won Gold in Park of the Year. Golds in the Business Landscape category.

16 November/December 2017 environment

First place winners • Best first time entrant Celebrating horticultural success Nina Terry, Hayes • Best window box Janet Valerie Halls, West Drayton Hillingdon in Bloom 2017 • Best hanging basket Marilyn Lindsay, Yiewsley Our Hillingdon in Bloom judges were boxes. Hayes • Best bloomin' business extremely impressed with the high Park School won The Old Orchard, Harefield standard of entries this year. There the best school project category. • Best school project/display were 70 entrants from Hillingdon First time entrants came from Hayes Park School residents in the 10 categories. across the borough and this was a • Greening grey Britain for wildlife Ruislip Bowls Club at the Manor particularly strong category. The Manor Farm Bowls Club, Ruislip Farm site won our new 'Greening best display category highlighted • Best community project grey Britain for wildlife' category for that you don't need a big garden, (residential street) their beautiful flower beds. New as many smaller gardens showed Bond Close, West Drayton entry Baitul Aman Mosque came variety and diligent planning. • Best display third for installing vibrant flower Winners were announced (includes novelty display) displays around their building. and presented with certificates Lynn Ronayne-Belhadj, Hillingdon We had more applications from and gardening vouchers at the • Roome Cup schools and judges were impressed Autumn Show in September. Grange Park Junior School with the children they met, who On their tour of the borough, • Best residential garden showed real pride at what they had the Hillingdon in Bloom judges Maria Bello Mendonca, Hillingdon grown. Grange Park Junior School saw an array of well-tended won the Roome Cup, displaying gardens that hadn't been entered their conservation know-how into the competition. They chose with interpretation signs, outdoor 10 of the best and wrote to the classrooms, a portfolio of what they homeowners to surprise them with had achieved and homemade bird special Judges' Choice awards.

High quality produce on display at Autumn Show This year's competition saw more Leisure) and the Royal Horticultural the best entries than in previous years, with Society's Gerry Edwards) found Autumn Show 440 exhibits in 33 categories, with it hard to pick the winners, as the yet. The new 60 people of all ages taking part. standard of homegrown fruit, setting and The show was held in a brand vegetables, jams, chutneys, floral art being part of new location at the Great Barn at and displays was extremely high. Open House Manor Farm during Open House Terry Clements from Harefield, Weekend Weekend, welcoming hundreds of won this year's coveted Best in Show suited it visitors, with feedback illustrating that title, sweeping the board in the floral really well." residents preferred this new location. display section for his stunning dahlias. The 'Plant a Welly' As always, the judges (the Mayor of Brian Lawrence, 81, from Hayes End competition for schools was won Hillingdon and her consort Andrew; won the medium tomatoes, beetroot by Eva Parker from Newnham Cllr Jonathan Bianco; Paul Richards and blackberry categories. This was Infant School for her welly (Head of Green Spaces, Sport and the third time he had entered the featuring her school's colours. Autumn Show. He said: "I have had an All of the winners were presented allotment at Wood End Green for 13 with a multi-coloured rosette and years now and I grow almost everything garden centre vouchers by the Mayor to from cabbage, potatoes and beans, to continue with their horticultural efforts. sweetcorn, tomatoes and marrows. I enjoy gardening as it is an opportunity For more information on the to meet people, socialise, allows me bloom competitions and to grow what I want and have fresh to see more photos visit i vegetables and keep active. This was www.hillingdon.gov.uk/bloom

November/December 2017 17 events

Our Countdown to Christmas returns again this December, with 24 days of festive events and activities across the borough for all of the family to enjoy.

rom real reindeer, to acrobatic elves and a magical snow lion; Fthe streets of Hillingdon will be alive with Christmas spirit! Christmas Tree Meet Santa's Reindeer There will be exciting free activities Lights Switch On and and visit the Rural happening each day leading up to Christmas Carols Activities Garden Christmas at different locations in Uxbridge, Civic Centre Centre's seasonal Hillingdon, plus an array of concerts Forecourt, from 5.30pm. plant and gift stall and choirs from the Hillingdon Music Uxbridge, Civic Centre Hub. The council will once again host Forecourt, 11am to 3pm. its annual family pantomime at the Compass Theatre, which this year is Cinderella, and libraries will also be delivering a special programme of seasonal group activities and recitals. The advent calendar (right) lists all Dickensian Ding Dong of the locations and times for every Northwood shops, Countdown to Christmas event, Green Lane, 3.15pm including street acts, live comedy, and 4.30pm. acrobatics, magic shows, circus trick Betty performances and street theatre. Twinkle A 33ft Christmas tree will be Ickenham Festival, installed on the forecourt of the Civic 6.30pm to 8pm. Centre in Uxbridge, and spectators can watch the lights being switched on at 5.30pm on Friday 1 December, which will officially begin the Countdown to Christmas. The event Knees Up The Lost Elves will also be attended by the Mayor Ebenezer and Reindeer of Hillingdon, Cllr Carol Melvin and Harefield Northwood Hills will include carols and seasonal music. High Library and Joel Street, Father Christmas will be landing Street, 10.30am and 11.30am. his sleigh in front of the Civic 2.30pm, Centre on Saturday 2 December 3.15pm and is inviting families to come and 4pm. and pet the live reindeer.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Ray Puddifoot, Elf Portraits Small Talk said: "Following the success of our first Christmas Manor Farm Library, Charville Library, advent calendar, this arts initiative will return this 1.30pm to 3pm and 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. year with new acts and attractions to keep all of 3.30pm to 5pm. the family entertained and allow you to embrace the festive spirit within your local community. Come along to one of our events and celebrate the joy of Christmas with your neighbours."

18 November/December 2017 events

Mischievous Elf Hillingdon Adult Festive Magic Show The Hillingdon Sports and Community Yeading Library. 11am to Christmas and Leisure Complex, Learning – Celebration midday for ages 6 to 10. Belles Uxbridge, Scrolls and Creative 2.15pm to 2.45pm for ages Hayes town 10am to Writing Workshop 2 to 5. Spaces limited. centre, midday. Harlington Library, 2pm and 11am to 12.30pm. 3.15pm. Book on 020 8569 1613.

Squirrel Nutkins The Snow Lion and The Gentleman Juggler Lairy Fairy and the Ruislip High Street, the Red Queen Eastcote, Field End Road Magic Christmas Pudding 2pm to 3pm. Uxbridge (by the library), 2.30pm, Harmondsworth Village Library 3.15pm and 4pm. Green, 2.30pm, 3.15pm (pedestrian and 4pm. area), 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

Singing Christmas Acrobatic Elves and Goodometer Winter Fairy Crackers Ice Elves Uxbridge Library, West Drayton Library, Yiewsley High Street, Botwell 1.30pm, 2.30pm 2pm, midday, 1.30pm and 3pm. Green and 3.30pm. 3pm and Sports 4pm. and Leisure Centre, 11am, midday and 1pm.

Hodman Swank Christmas Party Jingle Bells – North Christmas Penguins and Sally Highgrove Pool and Fitness Pole Postal Service Uxbridge Library Uxbridge Centre, 11.30am, 12.30pm Ruislip Manor Library (pedestrian area), High and and High Street, 12.30pm, 12.30pm, 1.30pm Street 1.30pm. 1.30pm and 2.30pm. and 2.30pm. (outside The Pavilions), 3.30pm and 4.45pm.

November/December 2017 19 recycling Recycle your waste this Christmas Hillingdon is proud to be the top performing borough for recycling in west London and is one of the few councils to continue to offer weekly recycling and refuse collections. The council wants to keep helping the local environment and encourage more residents to recycle their waste this Christmas.

ooking for a 2018 New Why should you take the time to recycle? Year's Resolution? If you're When you reduce the waste you You are saving natural resources such Lnot already a keen recycler, throw away, reuse items or recycle as timber and minerals and you will why not make a resolution to be them it has a positive effect on the also help to save money, as making kinder to the environment? By natural environment. You are cutting products from raw materials costs making small changes to your daily down on the amount of materials sent more and uses more energy than routine and how you deal with to landfill, where sites are filling up those made from recycled products. your household waste, you can year-on-year. You will also reduce the Even if you focus on being help to make a big difference. pollution caused by waste, as harmful better at recycling a few more chemicals and greenhouse gases are items, it's better than nothing. released from rubbish in landfill sites. Here's a guide to what you can recycle in Hillingdon, with some festive recycling tips... The council provides clear bags H You can recycle christmas cards and for dry recycling. You can recycle wrapping paper without glitter on books; magazines and catalogues; Please put these items in general waste: cardboard; paper; small amounts of shredded paper; tin cans; H Christmas cards or wrapping paper with glitter on glass bottles and jars; cartons; H bubble wrap plastic bags, trays and bottles. Please make sure that you remove H dirty or stained paper food waste and rinse bottles, jars, cans and trays. H sticky labels Disposable nappies are not recyclable and their inclusion in the clear bags H crisp packets could render a whole bag or container H laminated foil pouches, such as as contaminated and coffee or baby food pouches sent to landfill. For a full list of dry recyclable items visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/recycling i

All of your food waste can be recycled using an internal H You can recycle Christmas cake, all your kitchen caddy that you can leave on your worktop or vegetables from your Christmas dinner hide away from sight in a cupboard. Line the caddy (including peelings), fruit, meat (cooked with compostable corn starch bags or newspaper, and uncooked), teabags, coffee grounds, which will keep it clean and then put your leftovers eggs, cheese, cereals, bread and pasta. inside. When the caddy is full, tie your bag or fold up H Please don't put plastic bags in your caddy, the paper and empty into your green only corn starch bags or newspaper. external food storage bin. Put your food waste bin out at the same time as garden waste for collection. The council provides a kitchen caddy, external bin and free compostable caddy bags to all households upon request. Caddies can easily be cleaned and are dishwasher proof.

20 November/December 2017 recycling Recycle your waste this Christmas

Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member for Planning, Transportation and Recycling, said: "Hillingdon is proud to have the fourth highest recycling rate across London and we are recycling more and more each year with weekly free to use collections. We would like to continue to improve our rating and do even more for the local environment, so I would encourage residents who are not already recycling to give it a go."

The council provides white canvas For more information on recycling in Hillingdon, to bags for garden waste recycling. get more bags or sign up for automatic bag deliveries Garden waste includes dead flowers, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/rubbishandrecycling i weeds, grass cuttings, hedge clippings, leaves, prunings, twigs and branches (no more than two inches in diameter and two feet long). Please do not include soil. Refuse and Recycling Garden waste is collected throughout Normal collection day Revised collection day the year and is composted along with food waste. Monday 25 December Wednesday 27 December H Christmas trees can be recycled for Tuesday 26 December Thursday 28 December free as part of our gardening waste Wednesday 27 December Thursday 4 January collections. Make sure that you Thursday 28 December Friday 29 December remove all lights and decorations

Christmas 2017 Christmas Friday 29 December Saturday 30 December and cut the tree up into pieces of less than two feet long. Monday 1 January Tuesday 2 January Tuesday 2 January Wednesday 3 January Wednesday 3 January Thursday 4 January Thursday 4 January Friday 5 January

Textiles can be recycled 2018 Year New Friday 5 January Saturday 6 January using the purple textile Please leave your rubbish out for collection by 6am. recycling bags the council provides. You Please leave your rubbish near your front gate, but not can recycle clothing, on the pavement. handbags, pairs of shoes, Separate arrangements are in place for flats and curtains, towels, bed sheets, blankets and soft toys. business premises. Textiles are collected on the same day as dry recycling. If you have any queries, or would like to report a missed collection, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/recycling or call H If you're doing a wardrobe clean to 01895 556000. make way for Christmas gifts, such as woollen knitted jumpers, scarves, gloves and slippers, remember that you can recycle your old textiles. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/recycling

November/December 2017 21 young people

Children and young people enjoy summer FIESTA activities The council kick-started the summer holidays with an array of fun and exciting value for money activities for children and young people across the borough.

he annual FIESTA summer as I want to study musical theatre sporty. The best day was when we activity programme at university, and I've also made learnt how to survive out in the Tproved extremely popular new friends of all different ages." wild, and built our own houses from with families, with 1,321 children Courses took place at various things we found in the woods like attending 67 different courses locations, including the council's logs and bracken. We also learnt over a six-week period. young people's centres, community how to make a fire and a toilet, Activities ranged from sports like centres and sports halls. and what foods to forage in the golf and basketball, to educational Billy, 9, from Ruislip wants to be an woodlands. It's been really great as it courses, including musical theatre, actor when he grows up and went on involves everyone and it's a chance music production and fashion design. the Film Making: Behind the Scenes to meet new people and have fun." Young people also had the chance to course. He said: "We've been having learn new skills, such as international fun and learning everything about cooking and cycling proficiency. filming. We've been learning how Cllr David Simmonds, Ciara, 17, from Hillingdon spent a green screens work, how to use big Cabinet Member for week on the musical theatre School cameras and we've been filming news Children's Services and of Rock course at the Compass reports. I've been on TV before as Education, said: "This year marked our thirteenth annual Theatre in Ickenham. She said: "I an extra so it was really fun to learn FIESTA event, and it's proved study for a Musical Theatre Diploma what goes on behind the scenes." more popular with Hillingdon at Bishopshalt School and wanted Jamie, 11, from Ruislip went on the families than ever before! It to spend my summer holidays week-long Woodlands Week course was a fantastic opportunity gaining more musical theatre skills. at Ruislip Lido, which included lots for young people in the The course has been really good, of outdoor activities plus arts, crafts borough to try their hand at as I've learnt new dance routines, and drama. Jamie said: "I chose to something new, develop their vocal techniques and warm-up do Woodlands Week because I skills and make new friends." exercises. It's been really beneficial love being outdoors and I'm really

22 November/December 2017 culture

goes down a treat

The council's annual festival of literature, arts and culture, Culture Bite has grown since it started in 2015, attracting a range of bestselling international authors to venues across Hillingdon to talk about their work.

his year's festival was even Other highlights included a sold-out more successful than the last, talk by Victoria Hislop on her love affair Arts Twith residents and visitors with Greece, a Doctor Who interactive classes filled of all ages attending even more sci-fi event for families, OBE-awarded up quickly as exciting and diverse events, including author Jeanette Winterson explored soon as the drama, arts, crafts and creative love in her fiction, poetry workshops programme writing sessions; and author talks on National Poetry Day, an afternoon was released, showing your love from a variety of genres. The tea with top female authors, a of creative sessions, and overall 2017 programme was talk about the new visitor all Culture Bite events were well extended beyond centre at the Battle attended with 10 events sold- a month, running of Britain Bunker, a out. The finale party featured a from Sunday 17 day of wizarding speech from the UK Parliamentary September to the fun for the 20th Under Secretary for Arts and end of October anniversary of Culture, John Glen and was a and events took Harry Potter unique opportunity to meet and place in a range featuring a special converse with a range of authors. of council venues, screening, a chance including Manor to hear from much- Look out for author events Farm, libraries, the loved Goodnight Mister Tom throughout the year on Compass and Winston author Michelle Magorian, pottery www.hillingdon.gov.uk/libraryevents i Churchill theatres, parks pumpkin making and pumpkin and adult learning centres. carving for Halloween, crafty origami The festival opened during sessions, family ballet with English Open House Weekend with a National Ballet dancers, an evening of talk from historical crime writer wine tasting and Damien Lewis told an Michael Jecks, and was attended incredible true story about the world's by 40 people, including the Mayor most wanted criminal and arms dealer of Hillingdon, Cllr Carol Melvin. Viktor Bout and the hunt to catch him.

Cllr Richard Lewis, Cabinet Member for Central Services, Culture and Heritage, said: "Our Culture Bite festival is a marvellous and varied showcase of arts, literature and cultural events and also for our venues and council services. It's fantastic to see how the festival is growing from strength to strength each year. "By attracting even more bestselling authors and diverse artists, we are providing residents with exciting and high quality talks and arts offerings right here on their doorsteps and the popularity of our third programme with residents young and old, demonstrates how we are creating events for all tastes and your love for the arts in Hillingdon."

November/December 2017 23 safety

ionne* is 22 from Hillingdon, and hopes Dthat people affected by domestic abuse will read this and seek help. She said: "I met my partner when I was at university. A few months into the relationship, we got into a little argument over something really petty, but he got really angry. He left the room and returned with a knife and threatened to kill me. He was so angry and I didn't recognise him as my boyfriend. When he calmed down, he promised that he'd never threaten me again and I agreed to give him another chance." As their relationship continued, Dionne began to see changes Seek help to in her partner's behaviour. She said: "He started to become resentful of me. He didn't like me talking about previous boyfriends leave an abusive and would often call me names for having been with other people before. It started to make me feel worthless and I began self-harming. relationship "On one occasion, I was studying for my exams and we had a disagreement. He flipped out and Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, but turned so angry and aggressive. there is always help available. Dionne, a young He threw me across the room and started punching and kicking me. He victim of domestic abuse was brave enough tried to stab me and I was so scared, he wouldn't let me leave the room. to share her story with Hillingdon People. "I was sobbing on the floor, but then a few hours later he started saying he was sorry for what he'd mental abuse and manipulation was and stopped me going back. Even done but that I shouldn't have sometimes worse than the physical though I was so scared to leave, there made him so angry. I ended up in abuse, he knew I was terrified of him." were always people who were willing hospital for a few days and was in Dionne felt petrified to leave to help me. Complete strangers went a lot of pain. I spoke with a social him. She said: "If I ever said I was out of their way to bring me to safety." worker but was reluctant to speak to going to leave, he knew how to Does Dionne have any advice the police as I was scared it would scare me into staying. He would for anyone wanting to leave an come back on me. Eventually I gave become remorseful and promise abusive partner? She said: "The a statement and he was arrested." he would change, and then I would decision to leave was entirely in my Dionne went back to university forgive him because I loved him. hands and only I could make that for her exams. She said: "A few "The turning point was when I decision. Luckily I sought help and weeks later, he told me that he finished university and moved away other people were there to advise forgave me for going to the police to a new area. It finally made me me and help me when I was ready. and that he was going to anger realise that I'd been going round in The Independent Domestic Violence management classes. He was making circles. Each time he did something Advocacy in Hillingdon provided me an effort to try and change, and he wrong he said he would change, with safety measures and a way out. promised to never hit me again. but he didn't and it was damaging "I felt better when I left but "We got back together, and there me. I texted him saying I didn't want break-ups are not easy. Despite were ups and downs. He met my to be with him anymore and not to everything, I did really well at family and we started planning our contact me. I wanted to start again." university and I've got an amazing future together, but then when we Leaving an abusive relationship graduate job. Now, I am ready had an argument he would threaten can be extremely difficult, but to move forward with my life." to hurt me or my family. He would there is always help available. tell me that I was nothing, and knew Dionne said: "Once I began to break *Some of the details have that he had complete control over the cycle, I had a lot of support. been changed to protect me and that I couldn't leave him. The Telling my friends really helped me the victim's identity

24 November/December 2017 safety

Cllr Philip Corthorne, Cabinet Member for Social Services, Housing, Health and Wellbeing, said: "We work closely with many partners and domestic abuse agencies in Hillingdon to support and safeguard victims of abuse. There is always help available, and we promise to listen to your fears and concerns without judgement. We hope that Dionne's story will help more people who have suffered abuse to come forward and seek support."

Borough Commander, Colin Seek help to Wingrove, said: "If you are in an abusive relationship, or know someone who is a victim of domestic abuse, do not stay leave an abusive silent. Be aware of the signs of domestic abuse and seek help. Tackling domestic abuse is a police priority, and police relationship officers will support victims with compassion. We work with support agencies and charities to help people in abusive relationships and support families, whilst taking a zero- tolerance approach towards perpetrators. Do not suffer in silence, we are here to help."

Signs of domestic abuse How to seek help People in abusive relationships with • Talk to a trusted family member or friend, and ask them a partner, ex-partner, or close family to go with you to a specialist agency as a first step member will often experience similar • Call Hillingdon Independent Domestic patterns of abuse. Some examples Violence Advocacy for professional advice of abusive behaviour includes: and support on 020 8246 1745 • a partner who is jealous • The Domestic Violence Helpline (0808 2000 247) and possessive is a 24-hour confidential helpline where you • being humiliated or insulted can talk anonymously and ask for general • verbal abuse information, advice and guidance • being afraid of a partner • Report the abuse to the police, call 101 • made to feel isolated and cut off • Always dial 999 if it's an emergency or you're in from family and friends immediate danger • threatening to harm or kill pets • physical pain such as slapping, punching or kicking • threats to hurt someone or their family • constant criticism • controlling • deliberately damaging possessions • threatening to kidnap or take custody of children

November/December 2017 25 Could you Find out about foster a child? fostering

Come and fi nd out how to become a Hillingdon foster carer and meet the team on: Friday 8 December between 10am and 4pm Pavilions shopping centre, 18 Chequers Square, Uxbridge, UB8 1LN Tuesday 12 December and Tuesday 9 January at 6.30pm Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW Thursday 4 January between 10am and 4pm Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex, Gatting Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1ES There’s no need to book just turn up. For more details www.hillingdon.gov.uk/betheone 0800 783 1298

www.hillingdon.gov.uk

Fostering Ad in Nov-Dec 2017 HP A4.indd 1 16/10/2017 16:03 childcare

Free childcare for two-year-olds Local resident Michelle Harrison tells Hillingdon People why using the council's free childcare offer has had a huge impact on her two-year- old son, and allows her to spend more time with her other children.

he council offers free childcare Michelle was apprehensive about made a real difference in such a short for two-year-olds to working sending Jacob to nursery at first, but time and Jacob has come on leaps Tfamilies on a low income, or she's already seen many benefits for and bounds. The staff identified to families who are not working and both herself and her children. She some of his behaviour issues and he's receive benefits. Parents who receive said: "My two older children went now going through tests for autism. Disability Living Allowance for their to nursery when they were little so I If I hadn't brought Jacob to the two-year-old child, and families caring knew how beneficial it could be, but Uxbridge centre, I never would have for a child who is fostered or adopted I was nervous as I didn't want to leave realised that there was something may also be eligible for free childcare. Jacob with anyone else. I felt like I was more to his behaviour problems." Michelle Harrison from Hillingdon the only one who could look after him Childcare is beneficial for parents began using the council's childcare and that he was too young to be left. too, as it allows extra time to offer when her son Jacob turned two. "When a friend told me that I spend with other children, or the Jacob (pictured above with Nursery could be eligible to get 15 hours opportunity to go back to work or Officer, Carol Barber) receives 15 free childcare a week when Jacob study. Michelle concluded: "I would hours of free childcare a week at turned two, I decided to give it recommend the free childcare offer Uxbridge Early Years Centre, which a try. Since he's been going to to any parent of a two-year-old. Not allows him to learn, play and make new nursery, the structure and routine only has using the offer improved friends while his mum spends more of his day has done him wonders my child's behaviour and helped time with her other three children. and it's completely turned his him interact with other children, it's Michelle said: "Before Jacob behaviour around. As well as also given me extra time to spend started the free childcare offer, his learning new things, he's also made with my one-year-old daughter." behaviour was hard work. He was friends with other children." a bit wild and he would climb up Early education can improve a For more information on free everything, pull my hair and even child's learning and development childcare for two-year-olds visit started banging his head on things. I from a young age, and help them to www.hillingdon.gov.uk/earlyyears i have three other children including get ready to start school. Michelle or contact the Families' Information a one-year-old, so it was difficult." said: "The free childcare offer has Service on 01895 556489

November/December 2017 27 community Updates from the Borough Commander 'Clocks, Locks, Lights'…usually This month's Hillingdon People also been busy solving some of the marks this time of year in the highlights domestic abuse ahead of burglaries, robberies, and violent crime prevention calendar, when White Ribbon Day on Saturday 25 offences we had during the summer. the clocks go back and we remind November. We work very closely with Our public confidence survey also residents to double check doors and the council and a number of key suggests improvements, as we have windows are locked (cars as well as organisations and I would ask if you increased this year from 56 per houses) and encourage people to are suffering from domestic abuse, cent to 65 per cent of people now leave lights on at home. This often or know someone who is, then saying their local police do a good deters burglars and opportunist please let us know, so the police and job. Say hello when you see them, thieves. This year we have seen an partner agencies can take steps to and if you want the newsletter increase in vehicle crime, mostly prevent it from continuing, deal with to keep up to date, check out our thefts from cars and vans, so we the perpetrator, and keep you safe. Facebook and Twitter for details. need to be making our cars, vans, Lastly, as I've been out and about Contact details should also be and bikes less attractive to thieves feedback from people I meet is that available at your local library. as well. Top tips include physically the dedicated ward officers are checking your car or van door is more visible in their wards, either actually locked before you walk on foot or bike, dealing with local away, and don't leave anything on issues. There are also numerous display worth stealing (even if it's examples of our response team loose change). Check out our Be officers dealing with emergencies Safe website page www.met.police. and showing great professionalism uk/besafe for more information. and courage. Our detectives have Colin Wingrove Do you really need to go to Accident and Emergency (A&E) this winter? he Accident and Emergency (A&E) Tdepartment at Hillingdon Find the right Hospital is expecting extremely high demand during the winter care for you months, meaning longer waiting times, and is advising residents Hospital employees will always to only attend in an emergency. prioritise patients with the highest The hospital's A&E need and are asking those that department is the smallest in don't need to come to A&E, to North West London for the seek the care they need from number of patients it sees and the most appropriate place, has already seen an increase including their GPs, pharmacies of six and half per cent in the and by calling NHS 111. These number of people attending extra resources in the community A&E compared to last year. are there to ensure patients are Employees at Hillingdon seen appropriately and quickly, ultimately saving a journey to A&E. Hospital take pride in the services they provide to More information on choosing the right care can be found on patients, and the doctors www.rightcarenwlondon.nhs.uk and nurses in A&E are doing . a fantastic job to provide high quality care during extremely busy and challenging times. However, due to the increase The cost of accidents and emergencies in demand for services, only 88.2 per cent of patients arriving at • The cost of each visit to A&E is around £150 Hillingdon Urgent Care Centre and • For every 1,000 attendees it costs an extra £50,000 A&E in August were seen within the • Last year, Hillingdon saw more than 64,000 visitors to A&E government's four-hour target. The • Approximately 10 per cent of patients could have got faster treatment elsewhere hospital now aims to increase this (a pharmacy, GP surgery or other service) which would have saved £960,000 figure to 95 per cent by March 2018.

28 November/December 2017 volunteers Volunteer as a mentor for young people More than 100 young people in Hillingdon are in need of a mentor to guide them through a difficult time, and the council is looking for volunteers to lend a helping hand. Local residents Marie and Shirley share their experiences of mentoring and Sophie explains how she has benefitted from the scheme.

arie Fleming, from Yiewsley, was in and out of foster Mcare when she was a child, and understands first-hand the impact that one person's actions can have on the outcomes of a young life. She has been mentoring two young people since April this year. She said: "When I was growing up in Hillingdon, there were a couple of people in my life who gave me a nudge in the right direction, and I know that I could have turned out very differently if it hadn't been for that advice and support. "I didn't do well at school and was bullied, but when I went to college my personal tutor took the time to understand me and she knew what it was like to grow up in a poor background. She would do little mother of three, I've always strived to things like photocopying books for get it right with my own children. Now one-to-one sessions with Shirley. me when I couldn't afford to buy they've all flown the nest, I wanted to She said: "I was very nervous to meet them, and she encouraged me to go give something back. Mentoring is so my mentor at first and wasn't sure what to university which I wouldn't have rewarding, and it's an amazing feeling to expect. I didn't expect her to be so done without her guidance. Those when you gel with a young person and nice and welcoming. I was scared to talk, were small things for her, but they they start to open up. They are often but now I feel comfortable with Shirley were big things for me, and she set very shy or reserved at the beginning and I share my problems with her. We me on a path that I might not have but each week their confidence grows." talked about a family issue I had, and found on my own. This is now my Shirley feels that it's important to she helped me to deal with it and gave opportunity to do something small for empower young people and give me steps to guide me through. I feel someone else that could impact their them the skills and tools they need to more confident now, and I trust her." life forever and change their outcome." deal with everyday issues. She said: The council is looking for residents She said: "Mentoring gives me "I always let the young person lead who are able to give up an hour- such a huge sense of achievement; a the conversation, and every week I and-a-half a week to mentor a young chance to give back to the community sit down with Sophie and we have a person for up to a year. Volunteers and make a genuine impact on a relaxed chat. I ask her how her week will receive plenty of training and child's life. A young person may has been and I let her decide what development opportunities. Males disclose personal information such she wants to talk about or work on. from black and Asian backgrounds as abuse or self-harm, so the role we If she has any problems we discuss are particularly needed for young play as a mentor is so important. It's how we can unpick them and change males who would like someone similar empowering to know that they trust how she feels towards her issues. to relate to and put their trust in. you to help them, and that you are It's amazing to look back and see responsible for making that difference." how you have helped and made a To find out more about mentoring Shirley Allen, from Ruislip has been difference to someone else's life." a young person, please call mentoring Sophie (pictured) for the So how does it feel to have a 01895 556300 for an i last six months. She said: "As a single mentor? Sophie is 14, and has weekly initial discussion

November/December 2017 29

WHAT’S ON ? It's nearly Christmas and there For more Hillingdon events or are lots of seasonal events in to advertise your own, visit Hillingdon for all of the family. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/whatson

or call the Box Office (saxophones), Dave Newton also includes a raffle and the CHRISTMAS on 01895 250615. (piano) Simon Thorpe (bass) event, arranged by Manor Compass Theatre and Clark Tracey (drums). Charles Dickens' Farm Library, is in aid of the Cost: Tickets from £14. Mayor's Charity Appeal. A Christmas Carol Northwood Craft Market To book visit www. Thursday 16 to Saturday Saturday 2 December, Cost: £7. A glass of wine ticketsource.co.uk/pinnerjazz (or soft drink) and a 18 November, 8pm 10am to 3pm or call 0333 666 3366 (£1.50 (Doors open 7.30pm) Beautiful handmade crafts mince pie are included booking fee per transaction in the ticket price. A festive play based on the uplifting to browse and buy - great for telephone bookings). Book online on story of cold-hearted Ebenezer Christmas gift ideas! For children Pinner Parish Church Scrooge, who is transported to there's hands-on crafts and a www.hillingdontheatres.uk the past, present and future to chance to visit Santa's Grotto. Uxbridge Choral Society's or call the Box Office see the world with fresh eyes. Cost: Free admission. Annual Carol Concert on 01895 250615. Entertainment for all the family. For more information visit Saturday 9 December, 5pm Great Barn Cost: £9.50. Concessions www.northwoodcraftmarket. The first part of the concert will £7.50 on Thursday only. co.uk. feature the Oak Farm Junior School Hillingdon Choral Society To book tickets, call Methodist Church Hall, Choir and then at 7.30pm the Christmas Concert 01895 820135 or email Northwood society will perform four pieces Saturday 9 December, 7.30pm harefieldmonth@ Christmas Comedy by John Rutter. To be conducted Vaughan Williams The First hotmail.co.uk. by Tim Armstrong Taylor. Nowell, Christmas songs and St Mary's Church Hall Cracker: An alternative festive night out Cost: £7. Children under 12, £4. carols for choir and audience, and Light up a Life appeal Wednesday 6 Tickets available from a performance by Ruislip Belles and remembrance December, 7.30pm www.uxbridgechoralsociety. and Beaux handbell ringers. Fancy a change from the usual org.uk or on the door. Cost: Adults £12. Children £3. ceremonies St. Margaret's Church Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 work Christmas party? Then why Tickets available on the door, November, 4pm and 6pm not try this Christmas Comedy Stardust Christmas Concert from Pro Music International, Remember and celebrate the event? The Beck is offering you Saturday 9 December, 5.30pm Ickenham, by emailing life of someone you love by an alternative night out that will Enjoy an evening of music in hillingdonchoralsociety@ dedicating a light in their bring you festive fun and laughter Manor Farm's Great Barn with gmail.com or calling memory for the Michael Sobell from a cracking compère and two live music by the fabulous 07941 601966. Hospice annual Light up a comedians, plus a delicious festive Stardust Big Band. The evening Vyners School Life appeal. Come together to meal and a little bit of magic! remember loved ones and friends Cost: £22. at one of these ceremonies Book online at of music and readings. www.becktheatre.org.uk To make a dedication and to or call the Box Office book your attendance at one on 020 8561 8371. of the ceremonies (subject Beck Theatre to availability), please visit Aladdin www.michaelsobellhospice. Saturday 9 December co.uk or call 020 3826 2367. to Sunday 31 December, Saturday ceremony various times at The Lecture Hall, Produced by One From the Michael Sobell Hospice Heart, Aladdin features all of the Sunday ceremony at Pinner ingredients of the very best Beck and Northwood Synagogue Theatre pantomime; a lamp-full of laughter, music, mayhem, a Cinderella wish-granting genie and plenty of Friday 1 December to audience participation. This year's Saturday 30 December, family pantomime also features various times former EastEnders actress, The council presents another model and singer Rita Simons. great value, professional Cost: Tickets from £23. pantomime for Hillingdon in Book online on partnership with DKproDuKtions. www.becktheatre.org.uk This classic rags to riches tale will or call the Box Office feature familiar Compass panto on 020 8561 8371. faces, popular songs and plenty Beck Theatre of silliness. Expect lots of laugh- out loud comedy, traditional Alan Barnes: A audience participation and Christmas Carol enchanting magical animation, Saturday 9 December, 7.30pm guaranteed to make your panto Multi-instrumentalist Alan Barnes experience unforgettable! gives his take on Dickens' A Cost: Tickets from £9. Christmas Carol. Also featuring Group offers available. Bruce Adams (trumpet), Mark Book online on Nightingale (trombone), www.hillingdontheatres.uk Robert Fowler and Karen Sharp

November/December 2017 31 what’s on?

Eastcote and Ruislip Choral Society MUSIC Christmas Concert Esprit de Corps: Central Saturday 16 December, 3.30pm Band of the RAF The choral society perform Alan Wednesday 22 Bullard's O come, Emmanuel and November, 7.30pm carols for choir and audience, Esprit de Corps: The Band featuring Bourne Primary School of the RAF Regiment Choir. Refreshments afterwards. Thursday 7 December, 7.30pm The choral society is also looking The second and third of three for new members. Rehearsals concerts in this year's Esprit De are every Tuesday between 8pm Corps Concert Series, featuring and 10pm at Ruislip Methodist the talents of the musicians from the Royal Air Force Music Church, Ickenham Road, HA4 7BZ. Services. All proceeds donated to Cost: Tickets £12. the RAF Music Charitable Trust. Available on the door. To Cost: £16. pre-order or for more details Book online on about joining the society call www.hillingdontheatres. Esprit de Corps: 01895 904556. Visit uk or call the Box Office The Band of the RAF Regiment www.eastcote-ruislip-choral.org. on 01895 250615. St. Edmund's Church Winston Churchill Theatre Joan Viskant. A veritable feast the body and mind, nourishing Michelle John – from the golden age of jazz. your health and wellbeing. Neil Sands Christmas Cost: £18 Cost: £12 per class. Memories The Voice Behind the Voice Book online at www. For more details visit Monday 18 December, 2.30pm Friday 12 January, 7.30pm ticketsource.co.uk/pinnerjazz www.juliana.yoga or email Michelle John's 20 years backing Neil Sands and his West End or call 0333 666 3366 (£1.50 [email protected]. singing experience to the booking fee per transaction cast are back with their 2017 world's biggest stars, including The Stables, Eastcote Christmas production, which for telephone bookings). House Gardens Eric Clapton, Annie Lennox, Pinner United Synagogue has been described as 'a Carole King, Blue, Ed Sheeran Pilates with Suzy Barton sparkly Christmas card come and Lenny Kravitz saw her stay Tuesdays 1.30pm to life.' It features a mix of in the Voice UK right up to the Improve the way you feel, look, more than 60 of your favourite finals. In her new show The Voice THEATRE and live your life. Pilates exercises Christmas songs and carols, 40 Behind The Voice, Michelle pays The Rat Pack: With focus on improving posture, stunning costume changes, lots homage to many of the artists Special Guest core strength and flexibility. of good old fashioned festive she has performed with, while These classes are suitable for regaling fabulous tales of what Kenny Lynch fun, and a unique atmosphere Sunday 14 January, 7.30pm everyone regardless of age, that will warm your heart. really goes on backstage, and ability, or fitness level. Suzy is introduces the audience to some The Official UK No. 1 Tribute show Cost: £16.50. Concessions as voted by The Agents Association an ex British gymnastics squad of her own original music. member. Pilates Foundation £1 off. Premiere Card Cost: £20.50. of Great Britain in 2017, returns Members £13.50. to the Beck direct from London's trained. CYQ Level 3 instructor. Concessions £1 off. Cost: £10 per class or £8 Book online at Book online at Leicester Square Theatre, The 02 and a Royal Command Performance. if you buy a block of 10. www.becktheatre.org. www.becktheatre.org.uk or For more information uk or call the Box Office call the Box Office on Cost: £25.50. Concessions £1 off. and to book, email on 020 8561 8371. 020 8561 8371. suzybartonpilates@ Beck Theatre Book online at Beck Theatre www.becktheatre.org.uk or btinternet.com or call 07850 687488. Mother Goose The Jazz Repertory call the Box Office on Company 020 8561 8371. The Stables, Manor Farm Saturday 13 to Saturday 20 Beck Theatre January, various times. Saturday 13 January, 8pm Dru Yoga with Dinta Come along to this family friendly (doors open 7.30pm) Saturdays, 11.20am at and entertaining pantomime Expect fireworks from Enrico St Lawrence Church Tomasso (trumpet), Pete Long from The Arrow Players. EXERCISE Mondays, 7.30pm at South (saxophone and clarinet), Ruislip Community Centre Cost: £9. Some concessions Anthony Kerr (vibraphone), Chairobics for over-65s available for £7. Thursdays, 11.45am Dinta is fully qualified in Dru Nick Dawson (piano), Dave Yoga, which is based on flowing To buy tickets call Chamberlain (bass and guitar), to 12.30pm Come and join these easy-to- movements, directed breathing 020 8428 1349. with the maestro Richard Pite and visualisation. It is good for St. Edmund's Hall (drums) and the vocally-delightful follow gentle exercise sessions to improve your physical strength overall health and wellbeing, and wellbeing. Places are limited, core strengthening, weight loss, Michelle John so please book in advance. boosting immunity, improving Cost: £1 per session posture, building strength, flexibility, (pay on the door). suppleness, stamina, stress release, Call 01895 556242 to book your fighting depression, achieving place or receive more details. goals and deep relaxation. Oak Farm Library Cost: £8 per class. To book, call 07870 981885 or YOGA with Juliana email [email protected]. Saturdays 9.30am and St Lawrence Church Wednesdays 7pm and South Ruislip Join these drop-in Hatha Yoga Community Centre classes, which draw on vinyasa, parayoga and yoga therapy Running Groups with to bring a certain radiance, Dash for Fitness flow, structure and therapeutic Mondays 7.30pm to 8.30pm elements to the practice. Join these free running groups to Teaching encourages alignment make your running more social and awareness in movement and fun whilst helping you get and stillness. This approach fitter, go faster, and go further. aims to help you create calm, Beginners and runners of all levels space, strength and balance in welcome (under-18s must be

32 November/December 2017 what’s on?

accompanied). 5K masterclasses or call the Box Office read music is not essential. Acorn Youth Club's 30th and 1-1s also available. English on 020 8561 8371. The choir has on average anniversary party Athletics approved coach Beck Theatre three concerts per year and Saturday 27 January, in running fitness and CYQ arranges regular social events. 6pm to 10pm Level 3 personal trainers. Cost: £33 per term (first term Previous members are half price for new members). Cost: Free. LEISURE encouraged to contact the club For further information For more details call Sybil and to register visit Learn to Sing... Denman on 01895 234380. to attend its 30th anniversary Runtogether.co.uk (search in Harmony! United Reformed Church party, which will include food, Dash for Fitness), email Wednesday evenings, an entertainer and music. dashforfitness@btinternet. 7.45pm to 9pm (starting Ruislip Country Markets Previous members should com, or call Gary and Wednesday 8 November) Fridays, 10am to 11.30am call Malcolm Porter on Suzy on 07710 105086. Come along to this six- Buy fresh local produce, 07793 561096 or Phil Various routes starting week a cappella course for including vegetables, fruit, eggs, Myers on 07901 923969 and finishing in Ruislip women who love to sing. cakes, plants, plus handmade or email acornyouthclub@ Cost: £25. cards, knitted items, jams, yahoo.co.uk to attend. chutneys, pickles and more. LizStyle Living To book a place email sing@ Acorn Youth Club Shape up classes capitalconnection.org.uk For more details, email Sunday mornings or call 07816 827775. For [email protected]. Clothes repair and Join the LizStyle Lottery class more information visit Manor Farm Community Hut (in St Martin's Approach restyle workshop between 10am and 10.30am. A www.capitalconnection. Wednesday 22 November, 6pm org.uk/sing. car park) mixture of fun, body conditioning Love Your Clothes and the West exercises that depend upon which South Ruislip Community Centre Stamp and postcard fair London Waste Authority are cards the members of the class First Saturday of the pick. The LizStyle Sprints class holding a festive repair workshop Uxbridge Craft Market month, 10am to 4.30pm for you to learn tips and get between 10.30am and 11am Where collectors can meet combines short bursts of running Wednesdays, 9am to 5pm practical advice on how to Buy and commission goods dealers to buy, sell and exchange extend the life of your clothes. with periods of recovery to give the stamps and postcards. maximum impact and shred fat. and services from local Cost: Free. businesses and enterprises. Get For more details, email To book visit billetto.co.uk/ Cost: £6 per class/£10 for both. [email protected]. an antique watch repaired or en/e/hillingdon-love-your- Contact [email protected] buy anything from customised Ruislip Methodist Church or 07429 275007 or visit picture frames to interior design clothes-festive-repair- www.lizstyleliving.com ideas, jewellery, original art Open Mic Night workshop-tickets-210622. for more information and and interesting collectables. Every other Friday, Our Lady of Lourdes to book your place. For more details, contact 7.30pm to 9pm and Saint Michael New Pond Farm Playing Fields Leon Coleman on 07841 Sample the best of our local Catholic Church 562275 or email enquiries@ musical and literary talents with uxbridge-craft-market.co.uk. our hand-picked selection of Hillingdon4All Third COMEDY Market Square, The performers or, if you're feeling Sector Health and Pavilions shopping centre brave, sign up on the night Wellbeing Conference Lee Nelson: Serious Joker for a floorspot to perform. The Wednesday 6 December Friday 24 November, 7.30pm Hillingdon Choral Society perfect evening for lovers of Save the date for this third You've seen him sneaking into Mondays, 7.45pm to 9.45pm live music and literature. places he shouldn't be, now sector conference, which will Ever wanted to sing? Not Cost: £3.50 per ticket, identify the key issues facing come and see him where he most sung for a long time? Why not includes one drink at the bar definitely should be: live on stage come and join the Hillingdon (buy tickets on the door). groups and organisations. with his Serious Joker Tour. Choral Society and sing and To book a slot or to find out To attend email vpeck@ Cost: £23. perform choral works for local more about the event, email h4all.org.uk providing your Book online at audiences. No audition is [email protected]. name, organisation, job www.becktheatre.org.uk necessary and the ability to Uxbridge Library title and email address. VENUES Acorn Youth Club Methodist Church Hall Pinner and Northwood The Lecture Hall Columbia Avenue, Eastcote, Oaklands Gate, Synagogue Michael Sobell Hospice, Ruislip, HA4 9SU Northwood, HA6 3AA Oaklands Gate, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, HA6 3AA Northwood, WD3 1PZ Beck Theatre New Pond Farm Playing Grange Road, Hayes, UB3 2UE Ruislip Methodist Church The Stables Fields Ickenham Road, Ruislip, HA4 7BZ Eastcote House Gardens, High Sidmouth Drive, Ruislip, HA4 0BX Road, Eastcote, HA5 2FE Compass Theatre South Ruislip Community Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, Oak Farm Library Centre The Stables UB10 8PD Sutton Court Road, Deane Park, Long Drive, Manor Farm, Bury Street, Hillingdon, UB10 9PB South Ruislip, HA4 0HS Ruislip, HA4 7SU Great Barn Manor Farm, Bury Street, St. Edmund's Church and United Reformed Church Ruislip, HA4 7SU Our Lady of Lourdes and Hall Swakeleys Road, Saint Michael Catholic Pinner Road, Northwood Hills, Ickenham, UB10 8BE Manor Farm Church HA6 1QS Uxbridge Library Community Hut Osborn Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1UE St Lawrence Church 13-14 High Street, Bury Street, Ruislip, HA4 7SU Bridle Road, Eastcote, HA5 2SJ Uxbridge, UB8 1HD Pinner Parish Church Church Lane, Pinner, HA5 3AA St. Margaret's Church Vyners School Market Square Windsor Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1AB Warren Road, Ickenham, UB10 8AB The Pavilions shopping centre, 18 Chequers Square, Pinner United Synagogue St Mary's Church Hall Winston Churchill Theatre Uxbridge, UB8 1LN 1 Cecil Park, Pinner, HA5 5HJ High Street, Harefield, UB9 6BX Pinn Way, Ruislip, HA4 7QL

If you wish to publicise an event, please email details to [email protected] or send to Hillingdon People, 3S/05 Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. Events are selected at the editor's discretion.

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Free wellbeing courses

Improve your self-esteem and confidence with a free emotional health and wellbeing course at Hillingdon Adult and Community Learning this term. This term’s courses include: • problem solving • ceramics • creative writing • • yoga and relaxation • portrait drawing • watercolour painting • • managing emotional health and wellbeing in the workplace • • supporting emotional health and wellbeing in young people •

For more information visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/learntobewell or call 01895 556248.

www.hillingdon.gov.uk/learntobewell

Half page wellbeing.indd 1 17/10/2017 10:06 34 November/December 2017 Golden numbers Advice Do it online 24/7 at and support www.hillingdon.gov.uk Addictions Recovery Council Main Community Hillingdon CONTACTS Switchboard 01895 207777 01895 250111 Age UK Hillingdon Local democracy Planning Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm 020 8756 3040 Councillors' names, Building control enquiries, Council Tax and Benefits Alzheimer's Society addresses and inspection requests and 0300 123 1384 Hillingdon advice surgeries dangerous structures Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm 01923 823999 www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ 01895 558170 Electoral Services www.alzheimers.org.uk councillors Dangerous structures and Registrars Asphaleia Action Council meeting (out of hours) 01895 250111 01895 558250 01895 272478 dates and agendas Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm www.asphaleia.co.uk 01895 250636 Local land Environment and Anti- Centre for ADHD and charges enquiries Social Behaviour Autism Support Conservative 01895 250624/556115 01895 556000 020 8429 1552 Group Office Leisure Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm www.adhdandautism.org 01895 250316/250728 Families' Communicare Botwell Green Sports Counselling Service Electoral registration and Leisure Centre Information Service 020 8561 0956 01895 556489 01895 256056 01895 250251 Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm Consumer helpline electoralservices@ Hillingdon Sports and hillingdon.gov.uk Fraud Hotline 03454 04 05 06 Leisure Complex, Uxbridge 0800 389 8313 Citizens' Advice Bureau Labour Group Office 0845 130 7324 Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm 0344 848 7903 01895 250780 Highgrove Pool, Ruislip 01895 630753 Hillingdon First Card Disablement Association Mayor's Office Queensmead Sports 01895 556677 Hillingdon (DASH) 01895 250763 Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm 020 8848 8319 Centre, South Ruislip 020 8845 6010 Hillingdon Social Care Hayes One Stop Shop Environment Direct (adults and children) 01895 556004 and street scene William Byrd Pool, 01895 556633 hayesonestop@ Harlington Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm hillingdon.gov.uk Affinity Water 020 8897 9390 Housing Services Healthwatch Hillingdon 0345 357 2425 Hospitals 01895 272997 01895 556666 Current and proposed Harefield Hospital Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm Hillingdon Autistic roadworks in Hillingdon 01895 823737 Care and Support Out of Hours www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ 020 8606 6780 Hillingdon Hospital (emergencies only) roadworks 01895 238282 01895 250111 [email protected] www.hacs.org.uk Environmental Protection Mount Vernon Hospital Pest Control 01923 826111 01895 556000 Hillingdon Carers 01895 250190 01895 811206 Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm Food, Health and Safety Northwick Park Hospital Hillingdon Carers Trust 020 8864 3232 Planning and Trees 01895 250190 01895 250230 01895 258888 Watford General Hospital Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm Hillingdon Independent Animal welfare 01923 244366 Roads and Pavements Domestic Violence 01895 250190 NHS: 111 01895 556000 Advocacy Service Trading Standards 020 8246 1745 Police Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm 01895 250164 School Admissions Hillingdon Mind Metropolitan Police 01895 556644 01895 271559 Learning non-emergency number Hillingdon Women's Centre 101 Mon to Fri, 8am to 6pm Library information desk Textphone 18001 101 01895 259578 Care services 01895 250600 hillingdon.enquiries@ Home-Start Hillingdon met.police.uk Adoption and fostering 01895 252804 Advice and guidance 0800 783 1298 Hillingdon P3 Navigator (young people) Neighbourhood Watch Community Cancer Centre Advice Centre 01895 257855 020 8246 1869 www.community [email protected] cancercentre.org.uk 01895 436114 Enquiries about 01895 461016 Samaritans school transport Fire Freephone 116 123 Drugs or sexual health 01895 250008 Hillingdon Fire Station advice for young Victim Support Hillingdon 020 8555 1200 ext 38228 people up to 21 years 0208 965 1141 (office hours) Truancy Hotline hillingdongroup@ 01895 257285 0808 168 9111 (out of hours) 01895 250858 london-fire.gov.uk

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