July2012.QXD_WN.QXD 25/06/2012 10:44 Page 1
J D UB IA IL M EE O ND ED IT IO Westcombe NEWS N Est. 1973 Free to 3800 homes, and in libraries & some shops July/August 2012 Issue 6
A community newspaper commended by the London Forum of Amenity and Civic Societies Monthly newspaper of The Westcombe Society: fostering a sense of community Celebrating 60 years of service
Monday 4th June saw 260 Lighting the or so local residents join together to celebrate the Jubilee diamond jubilee on Westcombe Park Road. Beacon Thanks to Jess McGann a street party, fun for all, was organised with a DJ, Sumo wrestling suits and a Bouncy Castle. Partygoers described the event as ‘a truly memorable event’ and ‘a wonderful chance to meet new neighbours’. After a great success it The official emblem for the has been suggested that we Queen's Diamond Jubilee is the should have a street party winning design following a every summer! It was love- A small number of people gathered on the heath to witness the lighting national competition for ly to see everybody out in of the Jubilee Beacon – one of 4000 plus Beacons around the UK and children aged 6 to 14. such high spirits and the the Commonwealth. It was lit by Allen Gilham MRICS at 10.00 pm on It was drawn by 10-year-old street decorated in red, Monday 4th June to celebrate the Jubilee and to commemorate the Katherine Dewar, from Chester white and blue. Home Guard Blackheath Anti-aircraft rocket Gunners of WW II. The . ABOVE: Two surprise visitors making their Many thanks to all those traditional appearance on a balcony. Beacon chain was used to warn of approaching invaders from the 15th to who made it all such fun. BELOW: Good health, your Maj! the 18th Century eg the Spanish Armada in 1588. The Queen once said “I have to be seen to be believed.” In that case, the million people who turned out to cheer her at the Royal Pageant on the Thames must have made her even more believable. “Unbelievable” more readily comes to the mind of most of her loyal subjects, as they con- ABOVE, & LEFT: The Westcombe sider their luck in having such a Society threw a Jubilee party for monarch. Though not so, Senior Citizens inside Mycenae according to the small group of House. BELOW: Meanwhile, a family garden party to celebrate the anti-monarchists who staged a Jubilee took place in the grounds. protest at City Hall. “Don’t Jubilee’ve it!” said one placard. Graham Smith, of the protest Greenwich group Republic, declared “We celebrated the shall win this campaign!” Jubilee Pageant with the biggest “No, you bloody won’t!” street party in was the retort of one woman, the country at clad in red, white and blue, as the Old Royal she passed by. And such was the Naval College. overwhelming sentiment of the Here, the Salsa- vast crowds that turned out. Reggae group Not forgetting those stalwarts Batala who demonstrated their loyalty drummed and by paddling or rowing the danced as though they course, for hours, over five were in Rio. miles, much of it in the rain. In the garden there were stalls, cream teas, a THE OLYMPIC TORCH BBQ, Punch & Judy, the Second Chance Choir,and the South London Jazz Orchestra. < < NEWS BRIEFS > > The street-by-street route the London Oh, and Face Painting & Cake Cutting, too! 2012 Olympic torch relay will take has Got a ticket for the Olympics? soon be able to fly across the been set out - and it comes right through The Olympic and Paralympic Thames on the UK’s first Cable Games run from 27th July to 9th Car. The trip, lasting 5 minutes, Westcombe Park. September. LOCOG reminds us: costs £3.20 for adults, and £1.60 On July 21st, at about 8.15 am, on its way “If you are coming to a sports for children. The bad news? You from Greenwich to Woolwich, it goes from event or ceremony, please bring can also walk across the dome, Trafalgar Road to Woolwich Road, and as little as possible with you. for a mere £22.00. A bit steep, You’ll need to go through securi- you might think .... then turns right into Combedale Road. It ty checks when you arrive at a then goes up Westcombe Hill, into venue, and the more you bring, Olympics Live Sites Charlton Road and then back to the longer it will take to go Lewisham will have a 7.6m x 4.8m Stratheden Road and Shooters Hill Road. through security.There are strict screen showing live BBC coverage ABOVE: rules on what can be brought into of the London 2012 Games. It will Jan Barnett venues. In most cases you can be located on Blackheath from 27th July to 12th August. There will cuts the Jubilee bring one soft-sided bag into ven- also be a beautifully decorative, Westcombe Society Cake. But many ues – it should fit under your seat mirrored Spiegeltent, which will [RIGHT] just or in your lap.” offer food, a bar and entertainment. Members’ Party Sat 22nd September relaxed (while Big screens are also on show at the Dads took Locals take to the sky the ORNC, and General Gordon Invitations will be sent out in August over?) The good news is that you will Square in Woolwich. July2012.QXD_WN.QXD 25/06/2012 10:44 Page 2 COMMUNITY NEWS
WESTCOMBE NEWS The Halls’ ALL EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE TO: Neville Grant, The Editor Community [email protected] Tel. 0208 858 8489 The Blackheath Society celebrated its 75th Opera ALL MATERIAL TO BE SENT TO: anniversary this year he Community Opera mounted by [email protected] with a grand Family TBlackheath Halls has become a regu- Deadline for the September Picnic on the Heath on lar feature of music lovers’ diaries in issue: 15th August Midsummer Day, South east London. For the sixth summer Sunday June 24th. PHOTO: News Editor: Geoff Garvey Roger Marshall in a row, Blackheath Halls is presenting Environment Editor: Sarah The picnic included its popular community opera - this year, Punch and Judy shows, donkey rides, jugglers and a roving accordion player. Winterbottom it’s Massenet’s charming opera Cinderella. During the afternoon, Lewisham's mayor Sir Steve Bullock and Heidi Alexander MP Reporters: Denise Scott-McDonald, Members of the community perform opened the Hub on the Heath in the presence of Howard Shields, chair of the Blackheath Paul Carter alongside professionals, local school chil- Society. The new circular granite hub, which is the meeting point of four paths in the cen- dren, dancers and musicians from Trinity ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE tre of the Heath commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Blackheath Society. Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance Dick Allard All queries and in this exciting and vibrant production. comments to: 020 8858 7305 Well done, Westcombe! The event has an amazing reputation The Planning and environment sub- In a message to all those who helped out at June’s Jubilee Garden and Tea parties, among opera-lovers. In her round-up of committee: [email protected] Marilyn Little, Chair of the Westcombe Society, writes: 2011’s opera productions in the UK, Anna http://westcombe.gold.ac.uk “I wanted you to know how much I (on behalf of the society) valued the time and effort put Picard wrote ‘In Blackheath Halls, a DISTRIBUTION into making our Jubilee events in June so successful and, more importantly, enjoyable. hyperlocal Eugene Onegin has more spirit Myles Dove & Barbara Henley You contributed to a most amazing day and all thanks to you for making it possible. and soul than Deborah Warner’s New Without volunteers like yourselves, where would we be! Such a lot of hard work was put in Jean-Jacques and Maureen Aune York-bound ENO co-production.’ and the result was a never-to-be forgotten experience that was definitely Red, White and Blue. Volunteer distributors please phone It was very much appreciated by all who attended the event, and ... at least it didn't rain! This year’s show opens on 17th July. 8853 3740, we need your help! The wind was challenging to say the least, but that did not stop the festivities one jot. Don’t miss it! See What’s On on page 5. ADVERTISING MANAGER You helped to give the community a day to remember. Thank you!” Marilyn Little, 163 Westcombe Letters of appreciation for the Senior Citizens’ party came from Vera Dawkins, and Jean and Alan Apps. Japanese Peace Boat Hill, SE3 7DP 020 8853 1312 (email:[email protected]) eople were startled when a group of Japanese drummers and dancers began All advertisements payable in advance Thank you, John Roan! P to perform beside the Cutty Sark one by cheque to The Westcombe big BIG thank you to John Roan Park Riding for the Disabled. Costs: Thursday evening in June. The performers Society. School from Riding for the Disabled! They made posters and gave up their DISPLAY: Single column 6cm x 6cm: A came from the Japanese Peace Boat which One - four issues £35, five-plus issues £30 John Roan’s Librarian Tracey Brown breaks and lunchtimes to collect donations, is sailing round the world promoting each. Other sizes: please inquire. and the year 7 & 8 pupils chose the "Walk and Tracey and some of the pupils also peace, human rights, equal and sustainable Classified Ads (Market Place) charged at For Tom" to use as their subject focus in signed up to take part in the walk this year. development and respect for the environ- 30p per word (A telephone number = one their Literacy lessons with Tracey. Charlton Park RDA really appreciated ment. The boat was invited to visit by word. Any email/web address = 3 words.) Not only did this raise awareness with these amazing efforts! Deadline for all adverts is 10th day of the Greenwich and Lewisham CND. the pupils about the Riding for The Those who didn’t get to take part in the preceding month The drummers and dancers were Disabled Association, this also sparked the walk may still like to support RDA with a accompanied by two Nagasaki survivors, Printed by: Trojan Press pupils’ enthusiasm to go on to raise donation. Go to this just giving page: now in their seventies. Their message was Contact the Westcombe Society: £174.84 in memory of Tom for Charlton http://www.justgiving.com/walkfortom simple: “Never Again!” [email protected] Publisher: The Westcombe Society Chairman: Marilyn Little Tel. 8853 Protecting the Heath Maggie Gravelle & Barbara Morris 1312 The views expressed in the Westcombe uch loved and used by local people, inclusive sporting events which fund-raise permitted noise may be raised. News are not necessarily those of the MBlackheath is a historic heathland for charity. Lewisham Council, however, proposes a Westcombe Society or of the Editor. about 100 hectares in size and one of A major concern for the BJWP is the different phone number for each major London’s most famous open spaces. The physical impact of large events which event so that callers can speak directly to Back-numbers (in colour) can be accessed A2 to Dover runs across Blackheath and bring with them thousands of people. the on-site organiser. on: responsibility for the Heath is split, with Apart from problems of noise and litter, the It’s a busy schedule for the Heath in http:// westcombe.gold.ac.uk/westnews.html Westcombe Societys Blog: the London Borough of Lewisham looking sheer footfall at this type of event 2012 and if you have a view on what type http://westcombe.blogspot.com after the Heath to the south of the A2 and inevitably causes damage to both plants of events should or should not take place the Royal Borough of Greenwich the north. and grass and even erosion of the Heath’s on Blackheath, or if you have experienced WESTCOMBE SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP The Blackheath Joint Working Party fragile soil surface. nuisance from events, please email the (the BJWP) was set up to bring together all The Westcombe Society, through the Westcombe Society’s Planning & Please send this membership form to: those with an interest and a point of view BJWP, contributed to the Blackheath Environment Subcommittee Mrs Margaret Ellis, 4 Ingleside Grove on how Blackheath is used and run. The Events Policy which outlines a standard ([email protected]) and make your London SE3 7PH group includes representatives from both approach to events management on both views known. Name...... Lewisham and Greenwich Councils, sides of the Heath and which was adopted Complaints about smaller events (e.g. Address...... Glendale (which is the company appointed by both Councils at the end of 2011. fairs and circuses) can be made directly to to manage Lewisham’s side of the Heath), The Westcombe Society has also asked Glendale on 020 8318 3986 (south of the ...... and members of local amenity societies the Councils to rationalise their approach A2) or (north of the A2) Greenwich Tel...... and residents’ groups. to handling complaints, ideally with a sin- Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Team The BJWP aims to ensure a balance is gle, well-publicised number to call. on 020 8921 6885. Email: ...... kept between the Heath’s everyday role as One number will help with a proper Please enclose payment as appropriate: an informal open space integrated in a resi- evaluation of complaints which then feeds dential area, much valued for its quietness into decisions made about the shape and Family Membership £12 [ ] Is this you? Individual Membership £8 [ ] and its ecology; and as a site for a few frequency of future events. Are you a graphic, web or digital designer, a film maker or illustrator who is working from home. Senior Citizens/unwaged £4 [ ] large, high profile events each year, which For example, if no complaints are have so far been community events or received about noise, the future level of Who would like to free up some space at home, missing like minded souls, would like to work in a fun and creative environment and wants to share ideas and maybe help on future projects. Letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the views of the WN or the Westcombe Society, and may be edited for reasons of space. We are a growing creative hub in Greenwich Letters with desk space for fellow creatives. Sue Whimster From: Cllr Alex Grant (Lab) Blackheath & You can order Olympic parking permits, and Call 020 8269 2990 for more info and a chat. Curtains & soft furnishings Westcombe Ward visitor permits, by going to www.2012games- made to order I was sorry to read in your June issue that the parkingpermits.com or calling 0300 111 2012. WN thinks that "current proposals on parking If you encounter any problems the council has ‘excellence‘excellence throughthrough effort’effort’ Wide range of fabrics (during the Olympics) are not looking good". set up an Olympic Helpline, 020 8921 2012. JAMES REMOVALS BAR MEMBER NO. JO28 available J .com.com It certainly has taken longer than hoped for On another matter, your story in the same R Free estimates the council to reach agreement with the issue about the opening of "the new wing" at G Fully trained Olympic organisers over the details of parking Thomas Tallis suggested that the school has uniformed staff Phone: 0208 293 0737 and transport plans during the games. only been extended. It has in fact been com- G Full insurance included in Mob. 07714 215 713 However, there is now a parking plan that pletely rebuilt. The old buildings on Kidbrooke ALL quotes means that all residents within one-and-a half Park Road have already all been pulled down. G Prompt free estimates Unit 10, Gateway Business Centre, miles of the park will have parking controls dur- G On-site ing the Games at no extra cost to them, to pre- From: A local resident containerised Call Tom Cribb Road, SE28 0EZ storage vent spectators from clogging up local roads. I should like to thank the very kind person who G Discounts for 0800 0157775 www.suewhimster.com Areas that already have controlled parking found a bag of mine that fell from my car on long-term storage for a free survey or visit G Well-established jamesremovals.comjamesremovals.com [email protected] will see hours extended, and in areas with free Westcombe Hill, and handed it in to the police, family business toto requestrequest aa parking, temporary controls are being put in. thus restoring one’s faith in human nature. G Pianos – our forte quotation online
2 Westcombe News July/Aug 2012 July2012.QXD_WN.QXD 25/06/2012 10:44 Page 3
Blackheath Choir Summer Concert Sunday 1st July at 7.30 in St Margaret's Church, Lee Terrace. The programme includes: Jongen: Messe en l’honneur du Saint-SacramentShearing: Songs and Sonnets Horovitz: Captain Noah and his Floating Zoo LOCAL NEWS Tickets £12 on the door, or ring 8691 5397 BHSG Maths Challenge Success
Pupils at Blackheath High School achieved 3 Gold, 11 Silver and 13 Bronze certifi- Gold Certificate winners: Rei-Lin Tran, cates in this year’s UK Mathematics Trust Maya Gunn de Marcos and Mirali Patel. Junior Maths Challenge. Over 240,000 other schools, using all their mathematical pupils from across the UK sat the Junior expertise to accurately measure the length Maths Challenge with roughly the top 6% of the track, the angles of the bends and receiving a Gold certificate,13% a Silver consider other factors such as fuel load, and 21% a Bronze. tyres and speeds. The data was entered Blackheath High Junior School had won into computer simulation software, and all The Westcombe Society had great music at the Jubilee Summer Party, including the a place in the Jaguar Cars Maths in the challengers eventually raced against South London Jazz Orchestra, and, (above) the Second Chance Choir. You can hear the Motion™ Challenge (JCMIM) National each other. choir again at their end-of- term concert on 12th July, 2012, at 8.00 pm, at St John’s Final, beating off stiff competition from Less than 1% were invited to take part Church Stratheden Road (near the Standard). Do you fancy joining it? No experience or 1,000 schools across the country! in the final stage. Sue O’Hanlon, Head of training necessary! Contact: Jean Vaisler at [email protected] Tel. 8852 7548 To get to the final, the children School Maths, said “The girls have done well in children aged 9-16 had to set up a virtual the Junior Maths Challenge this year with racing car to compete on a circuit against 22% being awarded a certificate.” Upcoming events ast Greenwich Community Festivals’ est bitch, best veteran, best tricks, dogs Woodlands Farm Ehave unleashed their ‘Get involved!’ that look most like their owners, waggiest campaign for this summer’s celebrations. tail, best groomed and the dog with the wins grant See the ad on page 5 column 4. best outfit. For humans there will be a best Contact: Lorraine Turton www.lt-mar- homemade dog biscuit competition. he Woodlands Farm Trust is delighted to keting.co.uk Email: lorraine@lt-market- See www.mycenaegardens.org/capers have received £38,000 from the Heritage T ing.co.ukMob: 07919050540 for more information. Lottery Fund (HLF) for an exciting new Farm Conservation project in Shooters Hill. The Woodlands Farm Trust is the Mycenae Gardens goes to the dogs FOMG are also launching a competition to Westcombe Society’s Charity of the Year. It The Friends of Mycenae Gardens (FOMG) celebrate this glorious year in photos. works with local communities and volunteers are planning an afternoon of canine There are three age categories for entrants: to increase awareness of the farm’s biodiver- capers – activities and fun for dog owners up to 11, 11-16, and 17 or above; the clos- sity and local conservation priorities, and to and their pets -–on Sunday 2nd September ing date is Wednesday 19th. Sept. inspire local people to become actively in the Gardens. The Friends will be invit- The entry details are at http://www. involved in biodiversity conservation. “It will provide local people with ing entries for most handsome dog, pretti- mycenaegardens.org.uk/PhotoComp/ This will include a survey of the farm’s opportunities to develop and share their biodiversity, and a long-term conservation wildlife knowledge and skills, and to con- management plan. The Trust will also be serve the wildlife at Woodlands Farm, a vital Chickens coming home to roost inviting local community groups to take part part of London’s vanishing countryside.” in wildlife and conservation activities at the Despite the suspected arson attack on June n June, a twenty-year-old woman was Co-accused Christopher Edwards was farm, and will hold a series of public walks 8th, in which a chicken house worth £2,000 Isentenced to two years imprisonment for found guilty of the same charges. He also and talks on the wildlife found at the farm. was destroyed, the farm will be hosting its offences relating to the disorder in pleaded guilty to the burglary at a garage Commenting on the award, Barry Gray, summer show as usual on July 1st: the Greenwich in August 2011, after a lengthy on Woolwich Road, Charlton. He received Woodlands Farm Chair of Trustees, said: festivities are not in jeopardy. All welcome! investigation by detectives in Greenwich. a 12 month detention and training order. “We are delighted to have received the If you would like to contribute towards the In the early hours of the 9 August 2011, Detective Sergeant Mark Gilchrist, said: support of the Heritage Lottery Fund. chicken house fund, please ring 8319 8900. Laura Johnson, 20 a student, from Sheep “We are pleased with the result of this Coat Lane, Orpington, was stopped in a car investigation. We continue to investigate Don’t be caught out . . . by police officers in the Greenwich those involved in the August disorder and Peninsula Retail Park, SE10. The car was are still trawling through a large volume of ank customers are falling victim to a following several local cases of identity loaded with electrical goods which had CCTV footage. Suspects are being identi- Bnew and sophisticated type of credit fraud. Six cases have occurred in one been stolen from local retail parks. fied on a daily basis.We would like to card fraud which is increasingly common. block alone. Relying on lax security, the Laura Johnson was found guilty of bur- thank the public for their assistance.” Victims are telephoned by fraudsters fraudsters gain access to a communal entry, glary at Comet on Greenwich Peninsula By mid-June, 2,752 people had been and duped into revealing their PIN and and steal mail. They use the personal data and handling stolen goods from Currys on charged in connection with the distur- then handing over their bank card to a they obtain to set up fraudulent bank Stone Lake Retail Park, Charlton. She was bances in London last August, 715 of them courier in this new form of crime, which accounts (with the unwitting connivance of sentenced to two years imprisonment for juveniles. To view images of suspects, go has seen more than £750,000 taken from witless banks who fail to carry out routine each count, to run concurrently. to crimestoppers-uk.org customers since the beginning of the year. checks) and set up fraudulent bank Westcombe Park The fraudster claims to be from their accounts for money-laundering purposes. Westcombe Park Dental Practice bank. They are told that their debit or cred- Dodgy callers Treatments Available it card needs collecting as it needs replac- Callers claim to be looking for a couple Treatments Available ing following fraud on their account. called Steve and Helen, or some such .... Zoom ToothZo Whiteningom Tooth Whitening The caller often suggests that the person This is a known ploy to see if anyone is at DentalDen tImplantsal Implants & Invisalign
hangs up and calls the bank back if they home. Residents should dial 101, or call InvisalignSmile Makeovers want to ensure the call is genuine, but the police on on 020 8721 2635. SmileT Makeoversooth Colouring Fillings stays on the line, tricking the person into Driving in France? Anti-Wrinkle Treatments & Dermal Fillings thinking they’re calling their bank. From 1st July, drivers need to carry with Tooth Coloured Fillings Flat fraudsters them a breathalyser with a blue circular NF Anti-wrinkle Treatments and Dermal Fillers Meanwhile residents in buildings with logo, the French equivalent of the BSI kite 13 Station13 St aCrescent,tion Cre Westcombescent, shared flats are warned to be vigilant mark in the UK. Attention la Gendarmarie! WePark,stco mLondonbe P aSE3rk, 7EQLondon SE3 7EQ Tel. 0208 853 3304 Fax: 0208 858 1784 Tel. 0844 375 6996 Morden College Care Home – Cullum Welch Court Fax. 0208 858 1784 Located next to WestcombeMUL VParkIH TrainIL StationL ACADEMY OF IRISH DANCE Cullum Welch Court is an exceptional Care Home with a CSCI ‘3 Irish dance classes for adults and Star Rating’. Situated in the peace & tranquillity of the award- children from aged 4+ under the tuition winning grounds of Morden College, Blackheath, it provides of Riverdance member Rachel Mulvihill. spacious, attractive and affordable ensuite accommodation; Fully Insured, CRB Checked delivering high quality nursing & personal care for elderly people. and First Aid Qualified. With a wide range of activities, excursions and facilities provided The all new adult dance class is the to the Residents in our Care Home, they are also able to enjoy perfect way to socialise, keep fit and tone our private Chapel, Library, Clubhouse bar & Restaurant. up. A fun exercise class for all abilities, Cullum Welch Court is able to accommodate a certain number come and join the fun every Monday of private respite residents and also a small number from 7.15 – 8.15pm at The Blackheath of permanent private residents. Newbridge Function Hall. No experience necessary. For further information please contact: Full details available at Mrs Sharon Herd (Matron/Registered Manager) www.mulvihillirishdance.com on 0208 463 8399 or call Rachel on 07707100521
Westcombe News July/Aug 2012 3 July2012.QXD_WN.QXD 25/06/2012 10:44 Page 4
FEATURES: THE ARTS
Neville Art for our sake Summer reading Grant
ocal residents Ed and Irena Hill's new Summer? What summer, you may well ask ... Summer will start, properly, LMade in Greenwich Gallery is a reve- lation. Called both a gallery and a meeting in July, so “they” say; so why not spend those traditional rainy days reading place, it is situated at 324 Creek Road –a one of these books by local authors? stone's throw from the Cutty Sark. The Paragon and South Row by Neil Leave the busy tourist-ridden streets of Rhind Greenwich town, and you enter a haven of hen people mention Greenwich, art and peace. The gallery features an Wsooner or later they invariably start incredibly varied display of art and crafts talking about the Old Royal Naval by local artists. College, and “the Versailles of London.” Of course there are pictures - by both Too easily forgotten is that other star in established artists like Terry Scales and meetings, film-shows, poetry-readings ... Royal Greenwich’s crown – the Paragon in Basia Burrough, but also by many other Throughout the summer, there will be a Blackheath. Local historian Neil Rhind’s perhaps less well-known artists: they vary constantly changing exhibition of local new book The Paragon and South Row, from from traditional oils and watercolours work, and one particular date for your reminds us that the Paragon ranks, with to lino-cuts, etchings, and even wire-art. diary should be noted: on 7th July (11.30 - the Royal Crescent in Bath, Park Crescent Not forgetting Ed's famous photo-spheres, 7.00 pm) they are mounting a book launch at Regent’s Park and the Crescent at More controversial are the buildings which are both on sale, and also part of the of Paul Tempest's lovely book Greenwich Buxton, in the top rank of outstanding along the road in South Row - the Span decor (make sure you look up at the ceil- and the London River. Georgian buildings. apartments overlooking the Prince of ing!). What they have in common is they Just published, this “companion volume Wales pond. The original buildings were are of very high quality: looking at them, to the author’s Blackheath Village and bombed beyond repair, and, after the war, one wishes one had more wall-space! Environs” is a work of great scholarship – another battle was joined between the tra- Not just pictures, though. Also on dis- and enormous local interest. The Paragon – ditionalists and Span Developments Ltd play are ceramics, jewellery, and even a Grade 1 listed crescent – was designed who wanted to create an outstanding recycled art – I was particularly drawn to by the local architect and surveyor example of contemporary architecture. wall-fishes made of coloured glass frag- Michael Searle (1751-1813) and was built Judgement remains in the eye of the ments rescued from the Thames foreshore, in 1793- 4. beholder, but it is worth noting that the their jagged edges smoothed by countless During the day they plan a forum for It was very badly damaged during the flats were the youngest of listed buildings Thames-tides; as well as people to exchange their views on issues blitz. Threatened with demolition after the when scheduled in June 1996, and are work made from driftwood relating to the river, including the New war, it was saved by Charles Bernard much admired by connoisseurs of contem- like this Driftwoodpecker!) London Sewer – soakaway alternatives; Brown (1910-1990), who was determined porary architecture. There are even works on the riverside in Charlton – the threats to that the badly damaged crescent should be Neil Rind’s book The Paragon and embroidered silk. local business and commerce; and the reconstructed to its original appearance. South Row, Blackheath - a triumph of Ed and Irena plan a future of the Thames Barrier. With what success! No one would late 19th century unintentional town whole series of exhibitions, Yes, not just an art gallery! guess which parts of it were nearly planning, is published for the Blackheath both of work by particular Made in Greenwich is open Thursday, destroyed, and the crescent today is a joy Society by the Bookshop on the Heath, 74 artists, and other events – Sunday and Bank Holidays 11 - 5.30, to behold. Want to know which four num- Tranquil Vale SE3 (8852 4786). 240 theme-based exhibitions, Friday and Saturday 11.00 am - 7.00 pm bers were virtually destroyed? Who lived pages, fully illustrated with over 400 book launches, as well as www.madeingreenwich.co.uk there, and when? Read the book to find black and white and coloured images. out! ISBN 978-0-9565327-2-5 Price £35.00 Book Michael Review Conspiracy of secrets Goldman Greenwich and the London River, by itors from all over the world, flocking to Conspiracy of Secrets, by Bobbie Neate, more secrets than she had ever envisaged, Paul Tempest; with drawings by Peter see the Cutty Sark, the Park (currently published by John Blake at £17.99 including one of historical importance. Kent, and photographs by Stephen marred by preparations for the Olympics), he many friends of Bobbie Neate, who It has always been known that Herbert Tempest. the National Maritime Museum, and the Tlived in Maze Hill back in the eighties, Asquith, who was Prime Minister during his gem of a book is full of wonderful other historic buildings of Maritime will be amazed when they read (as they the first part of the First World War, had a Tillustrations, information, and quota- Greenwich – where dozens of films have certainly should) her new book. We all romantic attachment to the aristocrat tions – from Samuel Pepys to Boris been made, from Pirates of the Caribbean knew Bobbie as an energetic, sport-loving Venetia Stanley, who was thirty years his Johnson, with many others, including Sir to murder mysteries. teacher and expert on children’s reading junior. It was generally accepted that the Christopher Wren, Charles Dickens, John And all the time, the Thames flows by, but never would have suspected the com- relationship was platonic. Far from it – and Masefield, Wilfred Owen amd T. S. Eliot. a joy to behold, a pleasure to travel on, plications of her family background and the result of their liaison was Bobbie’s This pantheon of names reminds us hidden within its waters the memories of the revelations about her stepfather and his stepfather, born in 1912. The exact date, how central Greenwich and the river has Viking (and more recently Dutch) raiders, antecedents. like so much else in this story of intrigue been to our island story. Subtitled Royal Tudor shipyards, pubs frequented by char- Bobbie always suspected that Louis and deceit, is still shrouded in mystery. and Olympic, Past Present and Future, it acters from Shakespeare and Dickens, Stanley, her abusive but charismatic stepfa- Bobbie has published extensively in the contains numerous colour photographs by great factories warehouses and docks, grim ther, had many secrets and she began to educational field for some years and she Stephen Tempest (the author’s son), and memories of the blitz, visiting men-of-war investigate these after the death of her has now written a book of very general coloured drawings of great skill and beauty ancient and modern, and, most recently, the beloved mother in 2003. Conspiracy of interest. Conspiracy of Secrets is an by Peter Kent. Diamond Jubilee’s Royal Pageant. Secrets tells in page-turning detail of her absorbing, sometimes very moving, often Dickens was rather rude about This is a book to be dipped into, and nine years of painstaking and sometimes shocking personal narrative which deserves Greenwich – “If the parks be the lungs of enjoyed, a great celebration of Greenwich disturbing researches. She uncovered even to be a best-seller. London, we wonder what Greenwich Fair and the river that flows past it. is – a periodical breaking out, we suppose, A bargain at £9.95. Greenwich and the Play Denise Scott- a sort of spring rash.” London River, by Paul Tempest; with review Crown Matrimonial McDonald Oh dear! That’s not what this book is drawings by Peter Kent, and photographs s the nation celebrated the Queen’s played Queen Mary, showed amazing about: with the red banners proclaiming by Stephen Tempest, contains 190 pages ADiamond Jubilee, the Alexandra strength and discipline in her acting. Keith the new Royal Borough of Greenwich, for and numerous illustrations; published by Players, our local repertoire theatre compa- Hartley, who played Edward VIII, captured “rash” we should perhaps read “scarlet Medina Publishing Ltd 83 Ewell Road, ny, decided to honour the occasion with the agony of a man desperate to find a fever” but of course even that isn’t right. Surbiton, Surrey KT6 6AH. Crown Matromonial, a play retelling the compromise between his family, the nation Greenwich today is a place packed full ISBN 978-0-9567081-9-9 available from story of the abdication of Kind Edward and the woman he wanted to marry. Also not just of history, but incident: any day of Made in Greenwich Gallery, 324 Creek VIII. The play explores the tensions many of the women looked amazing in the week one can see its streets full of vis- Road, and all good bookshops. between King Edward and his mother, their sequin-studded dresses and furs. This GO EASY SELF A few examples of what’s on offer: Queen Mary, and the immediate Royal production was a wonderful evocation of family, as he struggles with his choice an era that still has echoes even today. DRIVE HIRE Small cars just between the throne or the woman he loves. Crown Matrimonial was performed both BUDGET BUSTING DEALS ! £19.95 per day or “We wanted to find a play with a royal on Broadway and in the West End. Royce * FREE LOCAL COLLECTION £99 per week. theme but one that was also a good piece Ryton’s play was ground-breaking for its & DELIVERY of drama,” said Roy Moore, the director. time, and is considered by many to be his * MILEAGE ALLOWANCE ON ALL Vans just £19.95 “What play could create greater drama most successful. VEHICLES 100 MILES PER DAY per day than the greatest constitutional crisis to The Alexandra Players, an amateur the- Mileage over 100 charged at £1.00 per mile. face the Royal Family in modern history?” atre company, perform plays and the For full price list, please contact us. All prices quoted exclusive of VAT Ford Transit The play is set entirely in Queen Mary’s occasional panto. They meet in Alexandra ONLY £24.95 sitting-room at Marlborough House, and Hall on Bramshot Avenue in Charlton. If Unit 3 Building 6, Westmoor Street, per day felt like a wonderful history lesson not just you want to know more, or you would like Ashleigh Commercial Estate, Charlton HIGH ROOF & LUTON ALSO of the Royal family, but of political and to join them you can call 8858 9829 or London SE7 8NQ Tel. 0208 858 7211 world affairs of that era. Janet Sweet, who email [email protected] AVAILABLE
4 Westcombe News July/Aug 2012 July2012.QXD_WN.QXD 25/06/2012 10:44 Page 5
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY! Macmillan Coffee Morning 10.00am - 2.00pm. Friday 28th September at Mycenae House. Offers of help or to provide cakes please ring Caroline on 8853-0948. Children’s Nearly New Sale – 29th Sept. 2 - 4pm Mycenae House – clothes, toys and equipment at bargain prices. If you are interested WHAT’S ON in having a table or rail please contact Joanne on 07709 571777.
ARTS COMMUNITY THEATRE & OPERA
BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS PARKfest 2012 - SHOWCASE OF MUSIC & BLACKHEATH HALLS SOCIETYSt Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, DANCE on Hervey Rd Sports Field Sat 7th July Wed 4th - Sat Sat 7th July 7.30 pm Trinity Laban Blackheath Village4th Thursday of every month, 2.00 A Summer Festival with an open air stage for local Opera: Stephen McNeff’s THE SECRET GAR- er for 2.30 Next meeting: 26th July: Portraits in talent: Blackheath School of Dance, Greenwich DEN. UK Premiere.This production goes on to the Summ Stone: The Great Cathedrals of Medieval England, Morris, Deansfield School Choir, The Angelos Banff Festival from Blackheath. £18.00 (£12.00) 2012 Get involved in this summer’ssummer’s community events by Mark Cottle Non-members £5 on the door. Saxophone Quartet. Also a Circus Skills Workshop, THE GREENWICH THEATRE Crooms Hill, See www.artsinblackheath.org.uk or ring 8318 7550 refreshments & much more. Fun for all the family. Greenwich, London SE10 8ES 020 8858 7755 WeWe need sporsportsts clubs, arartists,tists, therapists, GREENWICH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS 2pm - 5pm. Free. Hervey Rd Sports Field, entrance Tues 17th July SAPPHO, IN 9 FRAGMENTS cooks, performers,perforformers, craftmakers, local SOCIETY King William Court, the University of gate in Hervey Rd, SE3 8BU. www.parksfest.org Mon 23rd & Tues 24th July KNIVES IN HENS schools to make bunting, local businesses to hire stalls and lots of help on the day.day. Greenwich Next lecture: Monday 9th July BLACKHEATH BRIDGE CLUB welcomes all Wed 25th July THE TRENCH ToTo register online go to bit.ly/egcfsign Music and Manners: Life in the 18th century players to duplicate sessions in Mycenae House Mon. THE SPACE 269 Westferry Road London E14 Jeanne Dolmetsch LRAM, who talks on an age of & Thurs. 7.15 pm & on Wed. at 1.15 Tel. 8851 2609 3RS 0207 515 7799 / www.space.org.uk Look out for our info boards elegance and taste, wit and satire, extravagant fashions in Pistachios in the park WESTCOMBE WRITERS’ CIRCLE 1st. Thursday Nearest tube: Mudchute (DLR) Buses: D3, D7, 135 & Greenwich and a complex code of manners: from Daniel Defoe to each month, 2.30-4.30 at Mycenae House. Ring Joan Saturday 2nd June Communication Centre July 3rd, 5th and 7th July 7:30pm Mozart’s opera Jubilee Picnic Jane Austen, Lord Chesterfield, Horace Walpole, Paice on 8305 1652 or Rosemary Gill on 8858 5088 (East Greenwich Pleasaunce) LA CLEMENZA DI TITO £14 - £10 Saturday 21st July James Macky and Thomas Gainsborough. See BLACKHEATH FLOWER CLUB Meets third OlympicOlympic TorchTorch WWelcomeelcome Debut production by Giornata Opera. (Trafalgar(Trrafalgarafalgar Road & WWoolwichoolwich Road) www.gdfas.org or ring 8852 6248 Non-members wel- Friday of every month at 1.45 pm at Mycenae House July 10th – 14th 7.30 pm SUFFICIENT by Mike Monday 30th July - Friday 3rd August KKids’ids’ Sports WWeekeek (East Greenwich Pleasaunce) A come (£8.00) BLACKHEATH & GREENWICH WOMEN’S FREE s Sells. 7:30pm Save the environment! £14 - £10 Saturday 4th August fe umme stival c r INSTITUTE: First Wednesday of every month at City Noises Exhibition (Glenister Gardens) la reatin THE STEPHEN LAWRENCE GALLERY, sting l g a 17th - 28th July 8.00pm A LIFE IN MONOCHROME i egacy f 7.30 pm at Sunfields Methodist Church, Old Dover Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th August n East G or all University of Greenwich, Queen Anne Court Until 19481948 FestivalFestivalestival FFeteete (East Greenwich Pleasaunce) reen Classic tangled murder mystery wich July 11: The Present is a Point Just Passed Road, SE3 8SJ [email protected] IRISH DANCING CLASSES COMMENCING AT 31st July - 11th August 7.00pm HEADS BODIES LEGS MYCENAE HOUSE taught under the tuition of Experiment in extreme existential slapstick £10 (£8) EEmail:mail: [email protected] SignSign Up: bit.ly/egcfsign CHILDREN @EGCFest@EGCFest #EGCF Donate: wwwwww.streamar.streamar.streamarts.org.uk/projects/egcf eastgreenwichcommunityfestivals The EGCF is a project Tanya Dirrane-Hobbs ADCRG a very well established ofof STREAM ARTS LTD Group: East Greenwich Community Festivals a registered charity WOODLANDS FARM in England No 1080909 teacher and adjudicator. Please contact Tanya for fur- MUSIC 331 Shooters Hill. Tel. 0208 319 8900 ther details on 07775 943723 J & M RANDALL Every Thursday Toddler Club 10am-12pm GREENWICH WORLD CULTURAL FESTIVAL BLACKHEATH HALLS £2 per adult, children free (Established 1966) (ELTHAM) 12.30 - 4.30 pm One-day-only free COMMUNITY OPERA Massenet’s CIN- Meet the animals, enjoy some crafts or just play. entry to the grounds of the Palace. Spend the day SUMMER SHOW July 1st Details TBA DERELLA Tues. 17th - Fri. 20th 20 JULY, 7pm General Builders. Roofing & Plumbing Specialists in the company of drummers, dancers, circus per- Sun. 22nd JULY, 2pm £17.00 (£14.00 concs.) GREENWICH HERITAGE CENTRE formers, story tellers, puppeteers and more. Take Telephone: 0208 302 3676 Mobile: 07956 681488 Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 Mon 23rd July Meantime Jazz Email: [email protected] part in a ballroom workshop, listen to a live folk A five-day course rehearsing jazz standards and 4DX 020 8854 2452 band or picnic in the sunken moat. FREE Saturday mornings: 10.30am to 12 noon. Free looking at improvisation. BLACKHEATH HALLS 33 Lamorbey Close, Sidcup, art and craft activities for 5 to 12 year olds. A fun way 28th July FULL ON CHEESE DISCO PARTY: to spend a Saturday morning, with a chance to take LOCAL COUNCILLORS Kent, DA15 8BA Mon 30th July THE ICARUS CLUB AT THE part in loads of interesting activities. Children under Plastering – Glazing – Interior & Exterior SPIEGEL TENT Labour: Cllr. Alex Grant Tel. 8855 7292E-mail the age of five must be accompanied by an adult. Alex.grant @greenwich.gov.uk Decorating – Carpentry – Central Heating – Please wear suitable clothes. ENGLISH FOLK MUSIC 9.00 pm every Surgeries: 1st. Friday of each month, 7.00 - 8.00 Conversions – Bricklaying – Pebble Dashing – MEfA MONTESSORI AT MYCENAE HOUSE Tuesday at the Lord Hood pub, Creek Road; main- pm, Mycenae House; 3rd. Saturday of each Electrical Installations – Paving – New roofs – stream jazz every Thursday. month, 3.30-4.30 pm, St James Church Hall, Wednesdays during term-time Kidbrooke Park Rd. Plumbing – Extensions 9.30-11.30 Montessori Preschool (2-4 years) EVENTS AT DAVY'S WINE VAULTS - Greenwich, Conservative: Cllr. Geoff Brighty 10.30 -11.00 Developmental Dance (3-6 years) 161 Greenwich High Road SE10 8JA Tel. 8921 5663 (Town Hall) or 8858 9731 FREE Estimates – Fully Insured – 13.30-14.30 Baby Montessori (0-12 months) Book online at www.davy.co.uk/events or (Home) [email protected] Members of Federation of Master Builders 14.45-15.45 Toddler Montessori (12-24months) call 020 8858 9147. Cllr. Alex Wilson Tel. 07783 611607 Email: An introduction to wine workshop, 10.30am - [email protected] Surgery: 16.30-18.30 Inclusive Montessori After-school 1st Monday of the month 6 - 7.00 pm Blackheath CHARLTON HOUSE Nurture Group (4-11years) 3.30pm Saturday 14th July 10.30 - 3.30pm Ticket Library, Old Dover Rd. To register your child or for more information please price includes all wine samples & lunch with a glass Upstairs Downstairs Summer Ball call Wendy Fidler on 07710 433 994 or visit of wine. £89.95 per person Fri 17th & Sat 18th August www.montessorieducationforautism.com Cheese and Wine Monthly Tasting 18th July at 19:00 PLUMBING St George’s Church, Glenluce Road Our tasting in July focuses on Every Sunday at 11am Parish Communion with Aromatic whites £25 each. Sunday Special for children aged 3 and up Cheese and Wine Monthly GAS Miles Campbell SPECIAL EVENTS Tasting 15th August 19:00 Maker of spring & weight driven clocks Saturday 7th July 11am Jumble Sale Our August tasting will focus All plumbing, boiler and gas The church is open to receive donations on Wed. on fun wines for a barbecue work. Local references. 4th 2-4pm, Thursday 5th & Friday 6th 7 - 9pm and includes Robbyn Linden Call CWD Heating Clockmaker • Woolwich, London OLYMPIC TORCH: Sat.21st July from 7.00am from The Cheeseboard who Repairs and house calls undertaken Come along to watch the Olympic Torch relay as it will be choosing a selection of 0208 856 2234 goes up Westcombe Hill. Breakfast available, bric cheese to go with these wines. 07799003545 a brac and books for sale. Tickets £25 each, 0208 331 0201 www.milescampbell.co.uk English Matters! The QUEEN’S ENGLISH SOCIETY Good people needed, with love of English, who see accuracy in it (correct grammar and precise meaning of words) as the hinge of all communications in jobs and studies in English-speaking countries. To join as ordinary members, or as active helpers - For information: PO Box 56482 London SE3 3BU. Telephone: 020 8305 1604
WARNING: GREENWICH Inefficient Boilers Are Not Just SUMMER Bad For Your Wallet… FESTIVAL Learning is fun They are bad for the environment too. Grand opening By replacing your Band G rated boiler with a Band A rated Condensing boiler you will, Fri 27th July St Olave’s is a Prep School in according to the energy saving trust*, at 6.00 pm New Eltham for boys and girls save an average of £235 per year and our aged 3-11 years atmosphere around 1.26 tons of CO2. King Charles For a free quotation call Stephen Wristworth on: Lawn ! Broad, child-centred curriculum 07725008280 ! Excellent results in the 11+ Or email me at: Bandstand selection [email protected] Aerial Circus ! Clubs, outings and residential Boilers – Central Heating – Servicing – Festival runs until Landlords – Certification – Plumbing 12th August trips *Source: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk ! Excellent pastoral care ! Small classes ! Specialist staff for PE, IT, Music, French and Drama ! Sibling fee reduction ! Before and after school care Tel: 020 8294 8930 www.stolaves.org.uk
Westcombe News July/Aug 2012 5 July2012.QXD_WN.QXD 25/06/2012 10:44 Page 6
Planning applications can be viewed in the library, or at the Woolwich Library on the lower ground floor of the Woolwich ENVIRONMENT Centre, 35 Wellington St. They may also be viewed on www. greenwich.gov.uk/planning
A shallow decision Sarah Winterbottom shiny new state-of-the art pur- facility has been dubbed an “advanced otherwise it’s a backward step.” pose built sports centre in the paddling pool” by Tory opposition Dickie Davis, Chairman of the club Aheart of Greenwich - the civic leader, Cllr Spencer Drury. The Royal says: “We have been terribly short- poster child of regeneration plans for the Borough of Greenwich says that young changed. There is no spectator area in old Hospital site. Great news maybe for swimmers should travel to Eltham or the main pool, so our parents can't watch those of you that go to the much loved Charlton lido (once it is refurbished) their children swim. We have no club (but sadly neglected) facilities at the where there are suitable facilities. It is office either, but we're told we might get Arches leisure centre at the bottom of worth noting that in Lewisham, the new to share a storage cupboard. And this in Maze Hill. Not so if you are serious flagship sports and leisure centre, the a borough claiming to take pride in its about swimming. Glass Mill, houses a ‘competition pool’ Olympic status!” Following six years of consultation with eight lanes and a moveable floor at According to a spokesman for the with ‘stakeholders’ including Greenwich the deep end. Royal Borough of Greenwich, the “new Swimming Club, the Council is now Greenwich Swimming Club are furi- Greenwich Centre…. is being delivered having to defend its plans to build a fit- ous. The Club has been training young- at zero-cost to the tax payer as it’s being ness pool with two shallow ends, as a sters for 80 years and club secretary, funded entirely by the disposal of Royal result rendering it unsuitable for both Chris Evans, has doubts about finding a Borough of Greenwich assets.” galas and training. suitable slot at Eltham which has its own Does this mean that we have no With a moveable pool floor seemingly swimming club: “It’s going to be mad- choice over what we are given? ruled out, for reasons that are unclear, ness. A new swimming facility should An online petition has been set up if PHOTO: the planned, double shallow ended tick all the boxes of what is needed – you would like to protest. Go to http// Gavin McGregor www.petition.co.uk/make-the-new- Gavin McGregor writes: greenwich-swimming-pool-1-8m-at- Back in October a bunch of us planted Parking during the Olympics the-deep-end/comment-page-1/# wildflower seeds between the lime trees comment-169786 along the north wall of the East esidents in the Westcombe Park area apply for a temporary one so that you can Greenwich Pleasaunce. It was a bit of an Rhave been informed by the Royal park on the street and continue to use the experiment, and we were not sure whether Borough of Greenwich (RBG) that they ‘free’ bays, which will be converted during it would work, but if you head there now need to ensure that they have a valid park- the Games period. These permits are free. VAT threat you'll see a very pretty sight. ing permit in time for the Olympics to Residents can apply for permits to cover ensure that they don’t get a stiff fine or as many vehicles as belong to those living n a move widely considered to favour However, following a case brought worse, their vehicle towed away. at a given address. Businesses can apply Idevelopers, the Chancellor’s most recent against the UK in the European Court this Temporary parking controls are set to be for up to ten business parking permits. Finance Bill lays out plans to remove the was curtailed and in 1989 zero rating was introduced across all areas within 30 min- Existing ‘visitor permits’ will be supersed- current zero VAT on alterations to listed applied to work on all historic buildings utes walking distance of Greenwich Park ed by special ‘Games time’ vouchers and historic buildings with effect from used for residential or charitable purposes. and will come into force on 27th July and which are also free, and all local residents, October 2012. New builds will continue to Since the initial announcement the remain in place until 9th September. whether or not they are permit holders, benefit from this significant tax incentive. Government has agreed to exempt places The following changes are to take will be entitled to a maximum of two For an area like Blackheath and of worship from the tax. With improve- effect: reusable visitor vouchers. Greenwich, where there are many historic ment to existing housing stock making up * Existing Controlled Parking Zones For those who receive regular visits – and listed buildings – including our very more than 50 per cent of building work, (CPZs) will have restriction hours and days for example, from carers, nannies or own Mycenae House `– this is a cause for there is strong lobbying going on. extended to 0830h to 1900h, 7 days a week tradesmen, ‘temporary visitor’ permits are concern. The lobbying is being carried out by * All ‘free parking’ bays in the CPZ will available. If you have special requirements, Alterations and improvements that the ‘Cut the VAT’ campaign. This is being become parking bays allowing up to two the RBG urges you to contact them on previously benefitted from zero per cent led by a powerful alliance of interests, hours parking with or without a permit. 020 8921 2012 for more information. VAT will now incur the full 20% tax. including the Federation of Master * Current all-day and 4-hour visitor Two-hour free parking is being introduced According to Stephen Thornton, head of Builders, and supported by the Heritage vouchers will not be valid in the areas where there is currently no external affairs at the Royal Institute of Alliance, the Royal Institute of Chartered According to correspondence sent to CPZ. Chartered Surveyors, “this increase will Surveyors (RICS) and the Institute of residents by the RBG in June, if you More information, and details on how to create further barriers to the improvement Historic Building Conservation among already have a CPZ permit, this will apply for permits and vouchers, is of this stock and stifle job creation.” others. remain valid and will cover you for the available by calling 0300 111 2012; or go Prior to 1984, work on all buildings was No one is betting on the outcome: some extended hours and days. to: zero rated. The Government of the time Whitehall Watchers observe that the gov- If you don’t have a permit you can www.2012gamesparkingpermits.com then introduced VAT at the standard rate ernment is very unlikely to carry out yet for all but exempted listed building and another U-turn. But as Mrs Thatcher once scheduled ancient monuments. said: “You turn if you want to!” Christopher’s column
Austerity measures bite that’s not so easy and most of them are bland. A ‘wild food’ recipe recommends ‘delicious’ hog- Foraging for ‘wild food’ is basically weed - however, you should wear gloves to pick basically picking stuff from fields, (and presumably prepare) it and it is toxic until hedgerows and riverbanks (if you have cooked! Mushrooms are probably the riskiest of any nearby). Whole books workshops & courses all, but the general FSA advice is to keep a sam- are devoted to raiding your local green space for ple of what you have eaten just in case you poi- edibles (even Boots have online advice). It’s a son yourself. curiously erratic business, though – and much It’s safer to grow a patch of ‘wild food’ in foraging apparently involves trespassing. your own patch… garlic, dandelions, chickweed As a teenager, I occasionally went ‘scrump- are easy to find. If you are very enterprising you ing’ for apples, but where is the difference might even sack the gardener and charge inexpe- between foraging and taking plants from the wild rienced foragers to come and remove weeds (an offence under the Wildlife & Countryside from your own patch (just prepare an A4 page on Act 1981). If you leave the root behind is it for- how vitamin rich weeds are and you're away). aging rather than theft? Christopher Raven One urban forager cites Richmond Park and Highbury Roundabout as good sources of pro- A & A LANDSCAPES duce, though visiting two such disparate loca- Landscape Specialists tions must involve a lot of time and fuel. Then there are health issues. Rats may have contaminated plants, so washing them in running water is recommended, and dipping into diluted vinegar or sterilizing fluid. Elsewhere, I read that Free advice & Qualified ‘foraging can be fun but… fatal’, followed by estimates horticulturalist advice from the Food Standards Agency, Health All aspects of soft & hard landscaping Protection Agency and the National Poisons work carried out including Information Service. * Maintenance *Site clearance * Turfing * Tree surgery The most commonly ‘foraged’ food, blackber- * Fencing * Patios ries, are safe if picked from high up and washed * Brickwork thoroughly. You can eat any number of wild Tel. 020 8318 2530 plants provided you know what they are, but
6 Westcombe News July/Aug 2012 July2012.QXD_WN.QXD 25/06/2012 10:44 Page 7
Please send ads for the Market Place with pay- ment by the 10th day of the preceding month to: Marilyn Little, 163 Westcombe Hill, SE3 7DP 020 8853 1312 email:marilyn. little @btinternet.com ALL classified adverts 30p per word. MARKET PLACE Please make cheques payable to The Westcombe Society
SHOW YOUR COMPUTER WHO IS THE BOSS TUITION BUY LOCAL! ACCOMMODATION Are you looking for some extra help working with your computer? Need some help with your digital IRISH DANCING CLASSES COMMENCING AT Discounts available on production of your GOOD RELIABLE HOST FAMILIES wanted for for- photos, online shopping and the jargon? To discuss MYCENAE HOUSE taught under the tuition of Westcombe Society membership card. eign students. For more info. please contact Lynne the options, call Paul on 07958 251 448 or email Tanya Dirrane-Hobbs ADCRG a very well estab- on 01732 822649 or email [email protected] [email protected] lished teacher and adjudicator. Please contact Tanya BLACKHEATH VILLAGE: for further details on 07775 943723 HOLIDAYS/WEEKENDS IN 2-BEDROOMED MEWS AFFORDABLE, LOCAL PICTURE FRAMER - BLACKS OF BLACKHEATH - JEWELLERS ITALIAN TUITION Native Italian speaker offers APARTMENT with terrace close to Greenwich Park. collection & delivery possible. Happy to quote or 10% OFF purchases over £100, excluding sale £500.00 per week, weekends £300.00. Telephone advise. Email: [email protected] lessons at all levels. Preparation for GCSE, goods and repairs 0208 293 9035/07538 080815 or email angelmedi- DECORATING, ELECTRICS A-LEVELS courses, Grammar, Conversation CACTUS PIT - TEX/MEX RESTAURANT [email protected] Plumbing and Property Maintenance. Established 25 Tel 07788 743371 20% OFF for two or more, Sun. to Thurs. FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE Blackheath area, up years. References available. Phil McNamara 020 PIANO LESSONS Enjoy playing your instrument to 150 people, Bar, disabled access. Tel 07940 8857 5480, mobile 078 1436 0862 from the very first lesson - favourite pieces and CHAPTERS RESTAURANT 296290 NEED HELP DECLUTTERING YOUR HOME? For a much more - a holistic appproach to teaching and 10% OFF lunch/ dinner for two Mon. to Thurs. free appraisal or more information call 0844 846 learning. A.B exams taken if desired. Tel. 8856 1200 PARES FOOTWEAR 5854 or visit www.home-space.biz MATHS & ENGLISH TUITION (aged 8-16) and 10% OFF all shoes over £20, excluding sale stock GARDENING DAVIDSON PLASTERING AND DECORATING preparation for secondary school selection tests by RAFFLES DESIGNER WEAR. SERVICES Ceilings repaired or renovated. Artex qualified & experienced teacher. Mary Bauckham 10% OFF all non-sale goods BORDERS, BEDS AND CONTAINERS planned, ceilings skimmed to a smooth finish. Painting and 07709 089838 [email protected]. RIGHT ANGLE RETAIL - GIFTS prepared and planted by local experienced qualified Decorating. Insurance work undertaken. C&G quali- ENGLISH/PRIMARY/11-PLUS TUITION All ages 10% OFF special goods plus free delivery gardener. Call Leslie on 0208 858 6541 fied. Small jobs welcome. Free advice and esti- welcome. GCSE, A/S-Levels, Common Entrance, CAVE AUSTIN WINE BAR & GARDEN GOODGARDENING . . . For hands-on gardening, mates. Phone 8316 0990/07746 121510 Primary, etc. Fully qualified, experienced teacher. 5% discount at any time practical advice, or low-maintenance planting TOM ELLIS BESPOKE CARPENTRY Call Hellin Halliday BA(Hons), PGCE on 020 8858 GREENWICH: 7704 / 07928 017762 to discuss how I can help. designed for you & your garden, call Christopher Kitchens, Alcove units, bookcases, wardrobes, NORTH POLE RESTAURANT MATHEMATICS TUTOR For secondary level, Raven 020 8691 2240 dressers and tables. Happy to quote. 02085198947 12.5% OFF Meals only for two GARDEN MAINTENANCE: mowing, weeding, pruning, (m) 07540579027 GCSE and A-Level by qualified teacher, Tom 3D DIVING communal garden contracts, fruit and vegetables, ARCHITECTURAL INTERIOR DESIGN McNamara [MMath]. £30 per hour. 07595348976 or gardening tuition, RHS qualified, also domestic cleaning. Liz Bull Design specialises in innovative and inspira- Email [email protected] 10% discount on all scuba diving courses. Call John and Rachel 0208 316 0990 / 07746 121510 tional interior and exterior design. Complete service VIOLIN LESSONS ON VANBRUGH HILL. Offer excludes scuba diving equipment. from concept through to planning permission and Experienced professional violin teacher with GREENWICH COMMUNICATION HOLIDAYS completion. Services also include bespoke furniture 100% pass rate for ABRSM exams and over CENTRE at 164 Trafalgar Road offer 10% & landscape design. Call for a free consultation. 10yrs teaching experience. discount on all Computer Maintenance and WHITSTABLE WEEKENDS / WEEKS Sea wall house Email: [email protected] http://www.steinberg-music.com/ The Steinberg Repairs (including Laptops!) Your local School offers individual lessons at all ages and between Oyster Warehouse and Harbour. Sleeps 5. Tel. 07739903752. www.lizbulldesign.com friendly independent computer shop! Fantastic views. 8858 6578 or 013 0436 7443 HOMEWORKS All-round handyman for those DIYs you levels.Call 020 123 7659 or email louisastone- HUMBER ROAD: [email protected] ST IVES CORNWALL, IN OLD QUARTER. have no time for! General repairs. External works BODYWORKZ - THE FITNESS CLINIC and maintenance. Painting, decorating. Flat-pack MINDFUL TUTORING CARING Character cottage, sleeps 4/5, close to beaches, har- 109 Humber Road.10% OFF all treatments costing bour, Tate and School of Painting. Very reasonable assembly. Light plumbing and general carpentry. Calm support for your child’s learning 020 8355 £30 or more except Chiropody; exc.Saturdays. rates 020 8852 0434 Smaller works charged at an hourly rate. Contact 3809 www.mindfultutoring.co.uk ROYAL NEPALESE RESTAURANT NORFOLK HIDEAWAY Traditional cottage in Matthew Barron 0790 338 8658 ONE MAN ROCK SCHOOL rural hamlet - sleeps 5/6. Easy access to coast, HOUSES CLEARED of unwanted items. Tel: 020 Guitar, Vocal & Songwriting Tuition, plus Digital (Station Crescent) 20% OFF meals for Burnham Market, Holt. Great location for walking, 8858 3889 Mobile: 07885 917 842 Recording Service 30 Years Experience in Music two or more Sunday - Thursday. cycling, bird watching visiting castles and stately A MAN AND A VAN Business phone: 07905 117819 THE CURIOUS COMB homes. Tel 020 8858 1515 / 07768 340477 Tel: 020 8858 3889 Mobile: 07885 917 842 email: [email protected] 10% discount on services over £30 Weekdays www.baileycottage.co.uk EXPERIENCED PAINTER AND DECORATOR YOGA/MEDITATION in Blackheath £7. 8am-10am, 2pm-4pm (excludes retail purchases). Interior and exterior work, wall papering a speciality. A unique and gentle form of Hatha Yoga integrat- CORIANDER RESTAURANT (Station Crescent) PERSONAL CARE & THERAPY Free estimates. Fully insured. Friendly and reliable. ing the Alexander Technique principles. 25% off Sunday to Thursday. Bookings only! 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Westcombe News July/Aug 20 12 7
July2012.QXD_WN.QXD 25/06/2012 10:44 Page 8 JUBIL-INSPIRATION
Jubilee window- ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT: The shop in the award-winning shopping Visitor Centre Discover Greenwich managed to combine the Jubilee with the Olympics in their display. with the CENTRE: Blackheath Cooks in Old Dover Road highlight- ed the best of British recipes. WN BELOW LEFT: The Cat Protection League in Old Dover Road here seems to be the Corgie Protection League.
ABOVE: Not to be left out, Pointers School flew the flags, too, and had a right royal celebration. RIGHT: Ottie and the Bea’s shop window in Old Dover Road
PHOTOS: Neville Grant
THE POINTER SCHOOL “Doubles in size” • First Class Examination Results • Organic Food • Breakfast Club & After School Care • Christian Evangelical in outlook • Numerous Extra-Curricular Clubs ABOVE: In Stratheden Road, the Bexley and • Large variety of outdoor and PE activities Greenwich Hospice shop was also in celebratory mood • 3 languages taught (though football later displaced royalty!) BELOW: Hirst’s bakers on Old Dover Road hit some royal OFSTED: OUTSTANDING IN ALL AREAS themes - but didn’t forget Fathers’ Day!
020 8293 1331 The Pointer School |19 Stratheden Road | Blackheath | London SE3 7TH and also at 37 Shooters Hill Road | Blackheath | London SE3 7HS (Nursery & Reception) email: [email protected] Website: www.pointers-school.co.uk
the TUITION experts
Don’t forget –
you have childcare options! GRAMMAR SCHOOL ENTRANCE EXAMS IN SEPTEMBER? 11 Plus summer revision course and mock test 2012 Childcare places for children from 3 months – 5 years
Choosing the right kind of childcare is one of the biggest decisions Suitable for current year 5 pupils (for • Daily 11-3pm 11 plus entrance examinations year Book individual days or full weeks that you will ever have to make. Printing in Blackheath 7 entry September 2013) Structured examination techniques, At Zoom, we believe nursery childcare could be the best way of since 1978 Suitable for Grammar schools in confidence building supporting your whole family. With the right nursery, you’re able to South East London, Bromley, Accuracy & management skills enhance your child’s development and add to your experience as a From your ideas or Artwork Bexley, North Kent & Sutton. Mock tests with feed back parent. 24th JULY - we can print at a We have gone to great lengths to ensure that our well-equipped 17th AUGUST reasonable cost: We are now enrolling Year 4 pupils for Year 7 entry environment, exceptional team, healthy planned menus, additional into Grammar and Independent schools classes and planned curriculum all meet and exceed you and your • Business cards 2012 child’s expectations. • Invoices • Letterheads Childcare at Zoom could be more affordable than you think. The • Books • Brochures term after your child turns 3 means you are eligible for The Nursery Education Grant. We also have access to the Childcare Affordability • Forms • Invites Programme (CAP) and Working Families Tax Credit. • Calendars • Order of Services Why not call us for an informal To book or to find discussion, or to arrange a visit? We out more contact could be just what you are looking for! 1a Li zban St Call me, Justine O’Hare, Manager, on Bl ackheath, Lo ndo n SE3 8 SS www.theedcentre.co.uk 0208 331 6703. Alternatively, email me [email protected] at [email protected] Tel: 020 8853 2268 0208 318 2106 Email: dave@trojanpress. co. uk 23 Lewisham High Street SE13 5AF We’re based near to the Yorkshire Grey Roundabout, bordering Kidbrooke, 1 min walk from Lewisham DLR and bus garage Blackheath, Lee & Eltham, just off the A2 www. trojanpress. com
Job No: ZOO/1/187 Media: Westcombe News Size: 120x120mm Proof: 1 Date: 11/4/2008