May 2022 ISSUE 168

Month: May 2022 Issue No: 168 Independent monthly community news and business directory for KT5 & KT6

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Hello Readers,

A

s I write this, there are some murmurs

of the possibility of further lockdowns again. Just as businesses are starting to get back to work, this would be a catastrophe!!

However, I have had some sad news to pass on.

Community Motors will be closing their doors at the end of May. At the same time, C.D Jennings and Sons will also be closing their doors for the last time at the end of April, after over 60 years. Alan and Brian are retiring and Kevin and Alison are moving on. Both businesses were stalwarts of Surbiton and this magazine. They will be much missed, but best wishes to everyone.

With the terrible crisis still ongoing in Ukraine, we all feel somewhat helpless. But we can still help.

By donating to one of the websites listed on page 42 could help both the people and their animals.

Often forgotten in times of the ravages of war are the animals in Zoos etc, and family pets.

Following the Spring Budget announcements I realise that there will be some amongst us that will be finding it more difficult to cope. I hope you are able to find the support and assistance you need.

to suitable Spring weather so we can enjoy time with loved ones we have missed for the last two years.

I have been publishing A Berrylands Companion magazine since 2005 and at times it does feel quite lonely, as I work alone. But recently, I received this testimonial which makes it worthwhile: Dear Karen, As a resident I wanted to write to firstly say thank you so much for these amazing magazines that you tirelessly prepare each month. They are a joy to read and are full to the brim with a great deal of useful information. I just wanted to write to say a personal thank you! ATM. Thank you!!!

Best wishes,

Karen Front cover photo: Aaron Burden, Unsplash.com

With any luck, perhaps we will be looking forward

Useful Numbers Kingston Council www.kingston.gov.uk Action Fraud (Trading Standards) Refuse Collection Electoral Registration Council Tax Citizens Advice Customs & Excise (VAT) Inland Revenue Helpline Environmental Agency Surbiton Library Kingston Police Non Emergency Police Emergency Services Non Emergency NHS Transport: National Rail Enquiries Public Transport Traveline Gatwick Airport Heathrow Airport

020 8547 5757 020 8547 4654 020 8547 5560 020 8547 4630 020 8547 5196 0870 126 4019 0845 010 9000 08459 000 444 0870 850 6506 020 8547 6444 020 8541 1212 101 999 111 08457 484 950 0870 608 2608 0844 335 1802 0844 335 1801

Emergencies/Utilities: Gas Emergency Electricity Emergency Water Emergency BT Fault Line Virgin Media Crimestoppers Kingston Hospital Childline Samaritans Age Concern Kingston Relate www.relatekh.org Domestic Violence Helpline www.victimsupport.org.uk Surbiton Safer Neighbourhood Team based at YMCA

0800 111 999 0800 783 8866 0845 920 0800 0800 800 151 0845 142 0000 0800 555 111 020 8546 7711 0800 1111 116 123 0800 00 99 66 020 8549 3318 020 8547 3202 020 8721 2518

A Berrylands Companion

18 Kingsdowne Road, Surbiton, KT6 6JZ 020 8274 0096 karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk Please mention A Berrylands Companion when responding to adverts

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Choosing a care home for yourself or someone you love is never easy.

Here are a few things you’ll want to consider.

Nursing homes versus care homes Nursing homes have qualified medical staff on site; care homes may not, so do consider what type of service you’re looking for. It’s worth speaking to your GP about which type of home might be best and whether they can recommend anywhere. Your local council can also assess your care needs. Certain health conditions, such as dementia and Parkinson’s, will require specialist care, so you’ll need to check whether the homes you’re looking at have staff with suitable skills and experience.

Budget You’ll want to check whether you’re entitled to any financial support towards the fees, so do contact your local council for a means test. Extra support towards nursing care may also be available from the NHS. Once you know what help you’re entitled to, you can work out which local care homes are within your budget. Remember to check exactly what the fees cover and how much notice you’ll be given when the fees increase.

What makes you happy?

Have a think about the type of care home you or your loved one would most enjoy living in. Do you want a garden? What kind of activities would you like

to take part in? Do you want a small, peaceful home, or a larger, sociable one near to shops and cafés?

Do you need one on a bus route to make it easier to reach for visitors? Do you need a home that will accept visits from pets?

Read reviews Check the regulatory authority’s report for each care home that you’re considering and read reviews at www.carehome.co.uk and www.iwantgreatcare.org.

It’s also worth asking for opinions on social media, for example on your local Facebook groups.

Visit each care home on your shortlist Brochures and websites are useful for creating your shortlist, but you’ll want to visit a few homes before you make your final decision. When you visit, speak to a few members of staff and residents, as well as the manager. Prepare a list of questions before you go. Does the home feel dark and dated or light, fresh and inviting? How welcoming do the social spaces feel? Can you sample the food or at least see the menu? What’s the policy for visitors? If you or your relative has a physical impairment, how will the home manage that? What size rooms are available?

Extra information

You can search for local care homes at www.carehome.co.uk, where you’ll also find reviews and advice on financial support, care needs assessments and more.Age UK (www.ageuk.org.uk, 0800 055 6112) has lots of advice about choosing and paying for a care home.

You may also want to seek advice from specialist health charities, such as the Alzheimer’s Society (www.alzheimers.org.uk, 0333 150 3456) and Parkinson’s UK (www.parkinsons.org.uk, 0808 800 0303).

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With travel restrictions easing, more of us will be taking a city break or soaking up some sun overseas this summer. That means using foreign currency, but what’s the best way to spend abroad?

CASH While a range of options could be best for your case, the golden rule to remember is never to get currency at the airport if you can help it. Those exchanges usually offer highly uncompetitive rates, knowing that at this point you have little opportunity to shop around.

The earlier you can get your money, the more options you have. As well as specialist currency exchanges, many supermarkets and large retailers offer foreign money, though you may need to order money for some countries a few days in advance. You can also use online exchanges that will post the money to you by a secure delivery service. To be sure you get the best deal, check out online comparison sites that show you the available rates and fees.

BANK CARD Another option is to use your existing bank cards, either to withdraw cash overseas or to make purchases. Using a combination of cards and currency exchanges may be the best blend of cost and convenience. However, you’ll need to check with your bank to see what fees apply.

This can be a complex issue as it involves several different fees. Some cards carry a fee to use a cash machine abroad, usually a few percent of the withdrawal amount. Some cards carry a fixed fee for every purchase you make.

With both withdrawals and purchases, you may be charged an ‘exchange load’, which is

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To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

effectively a fee in the form of a slightly worse exchange rate than the current market rate.

CREDIT CARD Be particularly wary of using your ordinary credit card to withdraw cash overseas. You may have to pay interest for the period between making the withdrawal and paying it off on your account, overriding your usual interest-fee period for purchases. Making cash withdrawals on a credit card may also be seen as a bad sign on your credit record, so it’s definitely worth avoiding if you are planning a loan or mortgage application in the coming months.

If you expect to be spending a lot overseas, you could consider getting a specialist credit card.

These usually carry no fees or exchange load, so you get the cheapest spending. The downside is that they often carry high interest if you don’t pay your bill in full, so they are better as a source of convenience rather than borrowing.

You will also have to go through the usual credit checks when applying, so not everyone will be approved for every card.

You could also get a prepaid travel card. These let you ‘load’ the card with a balance in pounds and then lock in a fixed exchange rate. Once you’re overseas, you can use them like an ordinary debit card. Check fees carefully: you may have to pay a transaction fee each time you spend or withdraw cash.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

Berrylands Companion, Half page, 92mm X 62mm (5mm bleed)

Disclaimer

Whilst all reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included in A Berrylands Companion , the publisher takes no S80_Print responsibility adverts_VARIOUS.indd for the accuracy1 of statements made by contributors or advertisers, or for the loss arising from non-publication of any advertisement.

A Berrylands Companion is not to be seen as recommending any one advertiser.

Any errors, omissions or offers are the resposibilty of the advertiser. All artwork is accepted on the condition that the advertiser has obtained permission from any copyright holder for its use

by A Berrylands Companion. Whilst every care is taken when printing artwork, we cannot guarantee an exact colour match due to variations in print processes. Bookings are accepted only on this basis.

It is the advertiser’s responsibility to submit any amendments to adverts by the deadline date of the 8th of the month before issue month.

To advertise any event, or community activity in the magazine, please call: Karen on 020 8274 0096 or email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

11/04/2022 09:5

CAMCORDER TAPE TRANSFER TO DVD £12.50 EACH

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PROOF B

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Full of Mediterranean flavours, this one pot dish is perfect for busy days.

Preparation time 15 minutes Cooking time 40 minutes Serves 4 Ingredients • 8 new potatoes, halved • 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless • 2 tsp Italian seasoning • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 tsp crushed garlic • 1 onion, finely chopped • 1 400g can coconut milk • 200g cherry tomatoes, halved • 4 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and roughly chopped • 1 tbsp cornflour • 250g baby spinach leaves • Handful of basil leaves or parsley to serve, optional

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180C / 160C fan / gas mark 4.

2. Place the new potatoes in a pan of boiling salted water and parboil for 5 minutes, then drain.

3. Rub the chicken breasts with sea salt, black pepper and Italian seasoning.

4. Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a casserole dish. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes until starting to turn lightly golden. Flip over and cook for a further 5 minutes.

5. Remove the chicken and place on a plate.

6. Add the rest of the oil then stir in the garlic and onion and sauté for 2 minutes to soften.

7. Pour in the coconut milk. Add the chicken, cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes and new potatoes. Stir well.

8. Cover and place in the oven for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

9. Remove the pan from the oven and place on the hob.

10. Mix the cornflour with a little water to slacken.

11. Stir in the spinach and cornflour mixture. Simmer for a couple of minutes over a low heat to thicken the sauce.

12. Serve with a scattering of basil or parsley (if using) and a mixed salad.

Nutrition per serving: 329kcal, fat 21g (of which saturates 16g), carbohydrates 15g (of which sugars 5.2g), protein 35g

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Next held: 5th January, 2nd February, 1st March Two-time winner of the Kingston Chamber of Commerce’s Award for the Best Leisure and Hospitality Business, Glenmore House is one of Surbiton’s best kept secrets.

Constructed in 1840, Glenmore House is a fine example of late Georgian architecture situated in the exclusive Surbiton conservation area adjacent to the landscaped park of Claremont Gardens, the Edwardian building was one of the first substantial houses to be built in Surbiton, which has adapted to many uses over time, and today functions as a members’ club and wedding and events venue.

Impressive double gates open on to Glenmore’s free, private car park which can safely accommodate up to 110 cars.

We have acquired an enviable reputation for gourmet cuisine second to none, offering superb value for money, with no compromise on quality.

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The Tudor Rooms benefit from stained glass windows and chandeliers, and our light and airy Crescent Room enjoys fabulous views over Claremont Gardens.

Choose from a choice of five starters, five main courses and at least eight desserts, with coffee and complimentary amuse bouche for just £25 per person, all prepared by our brigade of award winning Chefs, using the freshest ingredients. ** The price is £25 incl VAT, (parties over 7 subject to a 10% service charge). Children under 12 half price. Private rooms are also available for a small additional charge.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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14/03/2022 10:55:27

By Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

Phrases come and phrases go and ‘cancel culture’ is one of the current expressions thst tends to arouse passion. Within the gardening community we prefer to think in terms of ‘subtraction satisfaction’. What is this and how can it help improve mental health (another well-used phrase that uses loaded language)?

Simply put, most of us need to do less. Many people seem to have too much going on. The digital age and our comparatively luxurious lifestyles mean there are multiple demands on our time. There’s always another gadget to buy, ‘life-enhancing’ changes to make to the home or that ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ holiday to save for (these things always happen more than once). We work more in order to play more and often give in to peer pressure urging us to join in with a greater number of things.

This lifestyle suits a wide range of people, but very rarely is it perfect for gardening folk. So, this wonderful time in spring is the very best time to make space for gardening. Subtracting commitments from the diary will help you to do it. Gardening cannot be rushed! A garden is a healing, nurturing place where mental health is soothed and the soul is fed with contentment.

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Tend to your green carpet in glorious spring This is the month of plenty, so it’s vital to allow yourself time to enjoy it. Garden tasks can feel overwhelming because everything is growing so fast. Prioritise the lawn, if you have one, because it will provide a visual feature during the months to come. Cut and reshape the edges, it’s amazing what a difference this makes. Gradually lower the cutting blade each mowing time, aiming for grass length of around 6cm – don’t be tempted to take it too low. Most importantly, leave some patches of longer grass for wildlife.

At least one square metre is recommended.

Joyful garden tasks for late spring The long days mean that summer is almost here and early spring growth in the garden can be tidied up to make way for the glorious summer show. Spring-flowering shrubs often benefit from being pruned back to healthy buds, but take time to check the most effective method for each species. In the case of forsythia, for example, best results are achieved by taking out some of the older stems, right down to the ground. This thins the shrub whilst still allowing it to adopt its natural form. What you don’t want is a ‘mechanical massacre’ whereby everything is rounded into a blob. Take a walk around your local modern housing estate to see it! Abelia, choisya, helichrysum and chaenomeles can also be pruned now.

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Climbers such as clematis need you to be wise.

Some of them can have a light clip at this time of year, but not those that are about to flower! The easyto-remember advice “if it flowers before June, don’t prune” will tell you what type of pruning group your clematis falls into. The early-flowering clematis only need a very light clip after flowering, whereas those that flower after June will mostly benefit from a harder prune next February. This will encourage the plant to produce flowers all the way down the stems rather than purely on the newer top growth.

Celebrate the season by planting out your annuals towards the end of the month, when all danger of frost has passed. Hanging baskets and bedding will provide vibrant colour and interest right through until October.

Jobs in the kitchen garden • If you are growing strawberries, lay straw between the plants and the soil. It will lessen the chance of mould spoiling the crop and will keep those luscious red fruits clean, too.

• Did you know that you can achieve greater yields from your vegetable beds if you plant in triangles rather than rows or squares?

Stagger your plants, but don’t plant too closely. The crop is far better when there’s a bit more space in between.

• It’s time to make supports for runner beans.

Allow about 2.5m of height and plant just one bean per support. These can go in the ground at the end of the month.

• Chit and plant potatoes, if you haven’t done so already. They like soft, crumbly soil.

Always avoid planting them in boggy sites.

• Get weeds under control this month and it will make the rest of the growing season much easier. Hoe when the weather is dry, as this stops weeds in their tracks.

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By Katherine Sorrell

This Italian range offers an extensive range of options.

Novamobili Ben walk-in wardrobe, gomodern.co.uk.

If you yearn for a tranquil, well-organised and spacious bedroom, the solution may be radical: create an entirely different space for storing clothes.

If your home’s floorplan allows, you could opt for a large, separate dressing room, containing clothes hanging space and drawers, a dressing table and mirror, and perhaps island storage, display shelves and comfortable seating. However, even when space is restricted a small bedroom, part of a large landing or one end of a bathroom or the master bedroom could be converted into a walk-in wardrobe with efficiently designed storage.

Planning the space The best place to site a dressing room or walk-in wardrobe is adjoining the bedroom or bathroom. Sizewise, allow a 60cm-deep hanging space that’s 2m high and at least 1.1m wide, plus a 55cm run of drawers for each person – and adjacent floor space of at least 1.2m for getting dressed. It’s best to measure everything that you’re planning to put in the dressing room, then draw up plans of where and how it could be built, allowing for doors, windows and radiators.

Most people opt for a combination of hanging and folding space, with options including hanging rails, drawers and fittings such as tie holders, pull-out shelves, boxes, trouser hangers and laundry bins.

The hard-to-reach top parts of the space can hold infrequently used items and racks or trees at the bottom can be used for shoes. For valuable jewellery, consider installing a small safe, perhaps in the floor or behind a section of hanging space.

Shadow oak dressing room with Castille Luna hinged doors in mink, and an island unit with Nouvel handles, Neatsmith. Castille Luna doors cost from £2,600 per linear metre. neatsmith.co.uk.

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Consider lighting Good lighting is vital and inset ceiling spotlights are a good option, perhaps fitted with a dimmer switch. If you decide to screen off your clothes with doors, consider illumination inside the wardrobes.

Where to buy You can commission a company or individual tradesperson to make you a bespoke bedroom; use a specialist fitted-furniture firm and choose one of their pre-designed ranges; or use off the shelf elements from DIY stores or storage specialists and make it up yourself. A hybrid method is to buy ready-made interior elements and add more expensive doors, either from a replacement-door specialist or made by a local joiner.

Beautiful finishes Even plain, open-fronted storage comes in a choice of finishes, while bespoke versioms with luxury doors could incorporate exotoc woods, leather, antique mirror, lacquer or ratta. Try to match the dressing room’s style to your bedroom, picking out colours, finishes and details such as knobs, handles and light switches to blend seamlessly.

This his-and-hers dressing room by Martin Moore was handbuilt in the roof space of a fourteenth-century home using American walnut. Units are backlit and the central island unit is sectioned to store and display watches, cufflinks, earrings and other small treasures. martinmoore.com.

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Welcoming, comfortable and luxurious – one of this year’s top interiors trends is for elegant schemes, striking or subtle, that feature rounded, organic, curvy shapes.

Contrasted with the straight lines of the window, the curvy pieces in this living room make an intriguing statement. Gigi six-light ceiling fitting, £125; Arlo boucle compact two-seater sofa in ivory, £399; Arlo distressed faux leather chair in grey, £249; Enzo cage coffee table, £249; Contour abstract rug; from £109; all dunelm.com. ► ◄ This glamorous side table is made from solid American walnut, with a base in blacklacquered tubular steel. Pebble table, price on application, ligne-roset.com/uk.

Contemporary design meets mid-century style in this cool printed cushion, available in canvas and faux suede. Thelma cushion, from £40, gailmyerscough.co.uk. ►

Round and Round • Upholstery is inherently soft and at least slightly rounded. If, however, you are buying a new chair, sofa or headboard, you may wish choose a style that features heavily rounded outlines and extra-squidgy shapes.

• A circular or organic, non-symmetrical shaped rug makes a change from a square or rectangle.

• Organic, sculptural shapes can take centre stage in many ways, from light fittings to mirrors and side tables, and even small accessories. Add abstract artworks featuring fluid lines and flowing shapes for emphasis.

This organic statement pendant is hand crafted in Stoke-onTrent from the finest bone china. Each ‘pebble’ is attached with brass slotted finials, with a matching brass ceiling rose and grey cotton braided cable. Pebble pendant, £1,649, originalbtc.com. ►

• Think about prints: introduce some curvaceous patterns on wallpaper, cushions or blinds.

◄ This alluring headboard is made from a lightweight velvet in a glamorous, scalloped design, creating a sophisticated focal point for an elegant bedroom. Art Deco super-king headboard in beige linen, £1,500, rockettstgeorge.co.uk.

• Balance the look with clean, straight lines. Keep colours relatively neutral and monochrome, and minimise clutter. ◄ Float this elegantly curved sofa in the middle of your living room to anchor an organic furniture plan, or pop it in an underused corner to make a subtle statement.

Ether curved sofa in graphite velvet, £4,725, jonathanadler.com.

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◄ This striking vase has a sculptural, organic feel that would works well on its own or combined with ceramics. Galwell curved glass vase, £65, cultfurniture.com.

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By Katherine Sorrell

stcard …

Starting at 1 and finishing at 49, track your way from one square to another, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally, placing consecutive numbers into the empty squares as you go. Some numbers are already given.

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

15

Straddling the Canada-US border, Niagara is one of the ‘World’s Big Three’, alongside Iguazu and Victoria, and for sheer power and popularity it is top of the list in North America. Draining the waters of Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, the river is only thirty-six miles long but awesome from end to end.

The Natives called it ‘Great Thunderer of Waters’, honouring the god dwelling in the cataract. According to historians, the first Europeans to view the Falls were a French explorer and his priest who spoke of waters that “foam and boil in fearful manner”. There was twice as much water in those days, prior to hydro-electricity production, but as you approach the Falls Mother Nature still sends shivers down your spine.

Three falls will take your breath away. On the US side are the American Falls and beyond Luna Island the Bridal Veil with the best overall view from the Observation Tower. Then comes Goat Island with its shuddering Cave of the Winds and on the other side the Horseshoe, the biggest fall, 2,600 feet across and almost entirely on Canadian territory. It captures 90% of the water rushing over the ledge and drops 187 feet. How much water over the Falls? Almost enough to fill a million baths a minute, they say, but on March 29th 1848 it all stopped as ice blocked the upper river. This was the first time the Falls were completely frozen, having tumbled and roared ever since the Great Lakes were created at the end of the Ice Age and water carved its way towards the Atlantic.

The best panorama is from Canada but cruising below the Falls is stunning from either side: turbulent water, rocks, islands, spray all around, then expect to get really wet (cape provided)

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when you reach the Horseshoe. It’s exhilarating and a highlight worth queueing for. Other attractions (Canadian side) include a ‘Journey Behind the Falls’ – follow the tunnels and see the Horseshoe plummeting right in front of you – and the Skylon Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the Falls and the legendary Rainbow Bridge between the two countries. Then there are tales of daredevils who challenged Niagara, among them the amazing Blondin who performed myriad antics on a tightrope and sixty-three-year-old schoolteacher Annie Taylor who achieved the first successful barrel jump over the Falls.

Tourist facilities are available on both sides but ground adjacent to the Falls has been secured for permanent parkland, with flowers and trees adding their own charm according to season. There’s a State Park on the American side and, along the escarpment in Ontario, a biosphere reserve listed by UNESCO. Meanwhile, beyond the Falls the river follows its course through a dramatic gorge, over six miles long, all rapids and whirlpool, before flowing into Lake Ontario in the pretty town of Niagara on the Lake.

Erosion has slowed down in modern times so the Niagara Falls might be with us for another 50,000 years.

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Die cast by a first black bear (5) 6.

Joins a golf course by the sea (5) 9.

Half intend to conclude (3) 10. Father’s classical ballet step? (3) 11. Constricting feather scarf (3) 12. Unwell in the village (3) 13. Short-lived fashion in self-admiration (3) 14. More peculiar, in a doddering way (5) 15. Effortlessness initially left for painting stand (5) 16. Words used to procure a weapon (5) 18. Extreme displeasure out of range (5) 19. Call out in the mountains (5) 21. Stroke gemstone endlessly (3)

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Stories of bravery, determination and resilience…

Nightcrawling – Leila Mottley 17-year-old Kiara’s mother is in prison and her brother looks set to follow.

When their landlord puts the rent up, it’s down to Kiara to find the extra money. With no qualifications or work experience to her name, she has little choice other than prostitution. And when she’s picked up by the police, things look even bleaker. A harrowing book, but one with glimpses of light and hope, Nightcrawling is a masterpiece.

Bravely Being Me – Sam Langley-Swain, Nicci Martin Bravely Being Me celebrates the stories of people who have been adopted, including chef Lorraine Pascale, presenter Toby Anstis and comedian Dara Ó Briain. It’s aimed at children who have been adopted and each story is beautifully illustrated. Bravely Being Me is only available from www.adoptionuk.org and all proceeds help to support the Adoption UK charity.

The Return of Faraz Ali – Aamina Ahmad As a small boy, Faraz was ripped from his home in Lahore’s red-light district. Many years later, he’s sent back to cover up the murder of a young girl. Corruption is rife and the life of a prostitute is seen as having little value, but Faraz can’t bring himself to obey orders. Meanwhile, Faraz’s sister is trying to escape their birthplace with her young daughter before it’s too late. An epic, historically rich story that will sweep you away.

The Girl with the Louding Voice – Abi Daré Fourteen-year-old Adunni dreams of going back to school. But her father has other ideas – selling her as a third wife to a local man in his fifties.

Adunni flees her small Nigerian village but with no money and no protection, her future looks uncertain. The Girl with the Louding Voice is lyrically beautiful and one of those rare books that will haunt your thoughts for weeks after you’ve turned the last page.

Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? – Dr Julie Smith Clinical psychologist Dr Julie Smith has created a handbook packed with straightforward advice to build resilience. She shares simple tools to help you cope with whatever life throws your way. From dealing with criticism to battling anxiety and overcoming a lack of motivation, these are skills that anyone can benefit from.

On Bloody Sunday – Julieann Campbell Fourteen people were killed by the Bloody Sunday massacre, half of whom were teenagers. All were unarmed. Most of the people who were shot were running away or helping other victims. Campbell’s On Bloody Sunday includes 110 first-hand accounts of the atrocity, from witnesses, survivors and relatives. It examines both the lead-up to the tragedy and the longfought campaign for justice.

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By Kate Duggan

ALAN SURSHAM (MOTOR VEHICLE TECHNICIAN)

Registered Office: 1, Orchard Close, West Ewell, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 9NS

Your local MOT TESTER AND SERVICE REPAIRER

ALL CARS COLLECTED AND DELIVERED (LOCAL AREAS)

Interim Service - £85 Full Service - £145 (Parts and Labour included) CARS UP TO 2000 CC Quotes for cars over 2000 cc - please phone

Diagnostics - Brakes - Clutches - Bodywork - Welding etc.

Labour Rate £37.50 per hour Telephone:

Office - 020 8397 8654 Garage - 07784 716 567 (For instant attention)

Codeword

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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The best high-tech vacuum cleaners The humble upright cleaner has undergone quite the transformation in recent years. Bagless cylinders have become more powerful and less noisy, while more efficient motors enable you to clean better without using too much energy.

Some double as handheld cleaners, which is really handy if you need to get rid of crumbs from the car seats or vacuum spaces where a normal vacuum can’t reach or won’t fit.

The biggest change in vacuum cleaners since the arrival of bagless models is the improvements in both motor technology and battery technology: where until fairly recently a cordless model couldn’t hope to deliver anything close to the suction of a corded model, today’s top cordless vacuums are both powerful and long lasting. They’re not cheap – the Dyson V11 Absolute is just under £600 – but they’re very impressive.

Robot vacuums have come a long way, too. It’s not a great idea to buy the very cheapest models but robot cleaners from the likes of Eufy do a good job for around £200 upwards; if money’s no object the iRobot Roomba range just gets better, with the Roomba J7+ delivering spectacular cleaning – albeit for nearly £800. Samsung’s Jet Bot vacuums are superb too, and some models even enable you to watch on your phone through their camera as they scoot around your floors.

Some vacuum cleaners are masters of multiple tasks. For example, the Miele Triflex HX1 Cat and Dog can be used as an upright vacuum or a handheld one, and it has a pet-hair tool to shift even the most stubborn hairs from your furniture, carpets and rugs. Many Shark vacuums are similarly flexible.

If money is no object then the Dyson V15 Detect Animal may be the best vacuum cleaner you can buy right now. It automatically increases the suction power when it detects larger or more numerous dust particles, it detangles hair from the brush bar and it runs for up to an hour of constant use without losing any suction. At around £500 it’s hardly cheap but it’s superbly well-made and cleans very effectively; it also includes tools for getting into awkward corners and for cleaning pet hair from upholstery.

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Dyson V15 Detect Animal The V15 Detect range includes multiple models; this is the one that’s best for pet owners. Whichever one you go for you’re getting very powerful suction from a very flexible and lightweight cleaner with useful attachments included. £529, johnlewis.com

Eufy RoboVac 30C Eufy is part of Anker, one of the world’s biggest tech accessory makers, and its RoboVac range offers surprisingly good cleaning performance for a very low price: with up to 1,500Pa of suction power it makes short work of everyday dust and dirt. £209, amazon.co.uk

Samsung Jet Bot Samsung’s Jet Bot range uses similar detection technology to self-driving cars and enables you to set no-go areas so they only clean where and when you want them to. The large capacity bin means you’re not constantly having to empty it. £449, samsung.com

Shark NZ850UK The Anti Hair Wrap system in this cleaner prevents long hairs from clogging the brush. It’s an odd-looking thing but it’s incredibly flexible: the main unit detaches so you can clean up high or underneath the sofa. £219, johnlewis.com

Miele Triflex HX1 Cat and Dog Miele is probably best known for its cylinder cleaners, but its bagless stick vacuums are really impressive: this 3-in-1 convertible is a handheld, an upright and a stick vacuum with up to an hour between charges. £479, amazon.co.uk

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MEGA DEALS!

TYRE SPECIALISTS

(Ewell)

MASSIVE DISCOUNTS l l l l

High Performance Cars Light Commercials Family Saloons 4WD Vehicles

l l l l

All leading makes of tyres Available from stock Wheel alignment and balancing While U Wait service

www.k-p-tyres.co.uk Email: enquiries@k-p-tyres.co.uk 169 CHESSINGTON ROAD, WEST EWELL, EPSOM, SURREY

H N T A F M R S A N E V O

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G H N C G E Y E R A R T R

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R A P L E H I F R H D E O

A S E E P M A L F C O I R

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

T H N S A O F V L O M N O

O E E T R E T A E H C O E

R R R U B R E D N E L B I

Blender Brush Can opener CD player Coffee maker Dishwasher Doorbell Fan Freezer Grill Hair dryer Heater

Iron Lamp Mop Oven Radio Refrigerator Scales Stove Telephone Timer Torch

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Keto, the Atkins, intermittent fasting, Noom; there’s no shortage of weight-loss diets fighting for our attention. But do diets even work? And which, if any, can you trust?

Dieting is something most of us will have experienced. Whether you’re looking to lose weight or just be a little healthier, new ways to change your eating habits continue to emerge – from diets that eliminate all carbs to programmes that change your entire attitude towards food.

However, diets are rarely as simple as they first seem. Not only are they notoriously hard to stick to (because let’s face it, cutting out carbs for the rest of your life just isn’t sustainable), it can be equally hard to keep the weight off.

Plus, some diets aren’t even that good for you in the first place.

So how can you tell the good diets from the bad ones, and how effective are the good ones anyway?

Good diets versus bad diets

When we’re on a mission to shed pounds for an upcoming wedding or long-awaited holiday, we often become so focused on the number on the scales, we forget to give our bodies the nutrition they need.

Juice diets are a good example. These ultralow calorie fads lure people in with buzz words such as ‘detoxifying’ and ‘cleansing’. In fact, liquid diets have been known to cause fatigue, headaches and poor concentration, which isn’t surprising given that they don’t provide your body with the sustenance it needs. What’s more, any weight you lose probably won’t last, as super-restrictive diets such as these are virtually impossible to stick to.

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Diets aren’t all bad, however. Long-term programmes such as Weight Watchers promote a sustainable approach to dieting without restricting you to a single food group. Newer diet programmes are also entering the sphere, such as app-based Noom, which focuses on education, healthy habits and behavioural changes to help dieters lose weight – and keep it off.

The key to an effective diet

While not every diet will work for everyone, the most important thing is balance. Any diet that’s extreme and restrictive simply won’t last, and has the potential to lead to an endless cycle of ‘yo-yo dieting’.

It’s also important to consider your activity levels when choosing a diet. We often assume that every woman can consume 2,000 calories a day, and every man 2,500, without gaining weight – but this isn’t necessarily true. Getting a wearable fitness device is an accurate way of working out how much energy you burn, and thus how many calories you can eat per day to reach your end goal.

But how do you keep the weight off? Planning your meals can be a huge help. Stocking your kitchen with healthy, nutritious foods and creating structured meal plans will help keep any unwanted weight gain at bay. All in all, if a diet is to work long-term, it has to be a complete lifestyle change, not just a quick fix. So take it slowly, eat mindfully and be kind to yourself.

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Berrylands Autocare * MOT Testing (while you wait) * Diagnostic Testing * Servicing & Mechanical Repairs * Open until 5.30pm weekdays

250 yards from main line Berrylands Station Providing a service for our local community

167 Surbiton Hill Park, Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8EJ

020 8399 4362

info@berrylandsautocare.co.uk www.berrylandsautocare.co.uk

RICHEY BRICKWORK

Est 35 YEARS

ROBINSON & SON

PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS & DECORATORS Wallpapering

Experienced professional Tradesman

Brickwork Blockwork Garden Walls Structural Alterations Damaged Walls Repaired No job too small 35 years experience

020 8399 9803

Please call Paul

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PRIVATE & RESIDENTIAL High Quality WORK AT LOCAL RATES CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE RECOMMENDATIONS AVAILABLE

A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS

EMail: robinsonandson24@talktalk.net

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

0208 390 0771 07836 200 489

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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OF

REPAIR? ND THE WE CAN EXTE ROOFS LIFE OF MOST

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We Specialise in:

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We are a local family business with over 50 years of roofing experience.

When you need a roof repair and you speak to one of our Roofers you can expect an honest evaluation of your roof followed by a free detailed quote.

FI N G.C

Extending the life of old Roofs Felt and GRP Flat Roofs New Roofs Leak Repairs Tiling & Slating UPVC Guttering Roof Consulting

Call us for a free estimate or advice

www.HoneyBeeRoofing.co.uk

Direct Line: 07774 835 712 15 Fengate Close Chessington Surrey KT9 2BF

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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H

ouses, offices, factories, shops and public areas all have one thing in common: they need to be regularly cleaned and that needs people to do it. Although most of us do clean our own homes, there’s a significant demand for domestic cleaners.

WHY BECOME A CLEANER? The work has flexible hours and offers a premium rate of pay. For a job which may be viewed as relatively unskilled – there’s no such thing as a cleaning degree - pay rates are well over the minimum wage. Provided you are trustworthy, reliable and good at what you do, you’ll always be able to find work.

SELF-EMPLOYMENT At first glance this seems ideal. You set your own pay rate and you choose when to work. But anyone who’s self-employed knows it’s not quite as simple as that.

You will have to visit each potential customer to see what their requirement is and come up with a mutually acceptable amount of time to do the job.

You need to agree what your duties do and don’t include and you need to be prepared to accept short notice changes to your cleaning day, criticism of your work, cancellations, finding new customers and dealing with your own tax and national insurance.

Your clients can usually terminate the agreement with no notice.

WORKING FOR A COMPANY This option removes all the self-employment hassles although it may be a bit less flexible in that you are likely to be asked to commit to regular

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shifts. But you’ll have full employment rights including sick pay, holiday and pension. If you want to do commercial cleaning – shops and offices for example – you’ll almost certainly need to be with a company.

THE CASH ECONOMY Let’s not pretend otherwise; many cleaners don’t declare their income. They expect to be paid cash which means they don’t have to pay tax and that reduces the cost to their clients.

But if you do this, the benefit is all with the person you are cleaning for. That is, if your rate is high enough to cover the tax bill, the take home pay is the same amount.

Furthermore if you’re being serious about this as a way to earn a living, ‘cash only’ means you could ultimately lose out. The lockdowns of the last couple of years really highlighted this. People who had been operating in the cash economy suddenly found themselves with no income and with no tax records to be able to claim furlough pay.

ARE YOU GOOD AT THIS? If you see cleaning as a quick way to make a bit of money but you aren’t that good at it, you really won’t last. A householder may overlook dust and a few cobwebs when they do their own cleaning, but if they are paying for it, you can bet they’ll expect much higher standards.

Again if you are working for a company, you’ll have the benefit of training which will stand you in good stead for a long satisfying career.

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Deadlines for submitting new artwork for forthcoming issues of A Berrylands Companion

M o b i l e b i c yc l e S e r v i c e & r e pa i r

8th May for June issue June 8th for July/Aug issue Aug 8th for September issue Sept 8th for October issue 8th Oct for November issue 8th Nov for Dec/January issue 8th Jan for February issue 8th Feb for March issue 8th March for April issue 8th April for May issue

Yo u r H o m e | Yo u r W o r k | Yo u r r i d e

rebelwaltz-cyclesolutions.co.uk • I can pick up your bike from your home or place of work then return to you at your convenience.

• From a safety check, new build to a full service, all work and repairs will be quoted prior to commencing.

• Will contact you immediately if any other defects are spotted so there will be no unpleasant surprises.

• Free pick up and drop off within a five mile radius of Surbiton.

For more information call Karen on 020 8274 0096 or send an email to

Contact: Jon Martin jon@rebelwaltz-cyclesolutions.co.uk | 07514 435855

karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

roofs psom Of E

Gutters Cleaned from £39

new roof installations roof repairs slate / tile & garage roofs flat grp fibreglass roofs chimney repairs & re-builds upVc fascias, soffits, guttering & cladding exterior painting moss remoVal damp work

CALL NOw FOR A FREE NO-ObLIgATION quOTE All major cards accepted

all work guaranteed family run business

OFFICE: 01372 390170 DIRECT LINE: 07393 646724 email: roofsofepsom@hotmail.com To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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IF YOU'VE BEEN AFFECTED BY CANCER, WE'RE HERE TO HELP Counselling and one-to-one therapies Wellbeing classes and workshops Support groups

Our services are available free of charge to anyone aged 18 and over who has been affected by cancer.

Contact us at support@pauls.org.uk or on 020 7924 3924

pauls.org.uk Charity number 1128295

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consistently high quality of service and expertise over the years that the firm and their staff

LEWIS DICK LIMITED NEED TO MOVE HOUSE

Speak Cottam |tracey.cottam@lewis-dick.com tracey.cottom@lewis-dick.com Speak to to Tracey Julie Wale | julie.wale@lewis-dick.com

NEED TO MAKE A WILL OR POWER OF ATTORNEY

OR ADMINISTER AN ESTATE | Speak to James Winfield james.winfield@lewis-dick.com

NEED HELP WITH YOUR BUSINESS Speak to Jonathan Owens jonathan.owens@lewis-dick.com

WE ARE YOUR LOCAL LAW FIRM, & PROVIDE A HIGH QUALITY SERVICE

NEED A DIVORCE, SEPARATION OR HELP

WITH CONTACT Speak to Carol Stevens-Stratten carol.stevens-stratten@lewis-dick.com

020 8393 0055

For more information or a no obligation quote ewell@lewis-dick.com or visit our website www.lewis-dick.com

Tel 020 8393 0055 | Fax 020 8393 3317 | 443 Kingston Rd, Ewell. Surrey, KT19 ODG

Extensions or New Build • Planning + Building Regulation Consents • Health and Safety for Construction • Party Wall Awards

Ken Burgess

K B Design

• Architectural Services • Residential + Commercial

Tele: 07976 837 031 E-mail: kcbdesign69@gmail.com

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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The best apps for education Sumdog If your child is attending a UK primary school, you should be able to get this excellent educational app for free: each school has a login code that unlocks the app for their students. It’s a bright, friendly and fun collection of game-style tasks that are more fun than anything in a textbook.

Go Explore Designed for younger children, this wonderful app from CBeebies is ad-free and based on the official Early Years Curriculum, with fun games that teach phonics, maths, letter formation, telling the time and more. It features a cast of familiar faces from CBeebies including Hey Duggee, Bing and the Alphablocks.

Squeebles Times Tables There’s only one way to rescue the Squeebles from the nasty Maths Monster: with times tables. This cute and entertaining app turns practicing times tables into a thrilling game with lots of different challenge modes and a range of problems to avoid repetition. It’s a lot of fun.

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Walking The Dog Follow some basic rules and you and your dog will enjoy some fantastic walks around our area this summer.

The Dog Walking Code for England and Wales was launched in 2015 to give concise, practical and positive advice and is endorsed by government bodies, farmers and the Kennel Club.

aware of animals present. Always keep your dog on a short lead. Find the safest route around animals giving them plenty of space, using paths or access land where possible. Exit the area calmly and quickly if threatened, releasing your dog to make it easier for you both to reach safety.

6. Always bag and bin your dog’s poo wherever you are. You can use any public waste bin or your bin at home.

7. Never leave bags of dog poo lying around, even if you intend to pick them up later.

Containers and deodorised bags can make them easier to carry.

8. Ensure your details are on your dog’s collar and he is microchipped, so you can be reunited quickly if he is lost.

9. Keep your dog’s vaccinations and worming up-to-date. Ask your vet for more information.

1. Ensure your dog is under effective control which means: • you have a short lead with you and use it when needed — around livestock, near cliff edges, or where signage requests it for example.

• you do not let your dog off the lead unless you keep him in sight and close enough to return to you on command.

2. Prevent your dog from approaching horse riders, cyclists or other people and their dogs uninvited.

3. Keep your dog with you on paths or access land and don’t let him stray onto crops, including fields of grass, fruit and vegetables.

4. Never let your dog worry or chase wildlife or livestock. Follow advice on local signs to reduce disturbance to plants and animals.

5. Stay safe around farm animals and horses: Stop, look and listen before entering a field: be

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10. Contact your local authority or look out for signs, to get more information on what to do and where to go in your area.

Watch out for yellow dogs! If you see a dog wearing a yellow ribbon, bandana or similar on his lead, he needs some space. Do not approach the dog or his people with your dog.

The yellow indicates that their dog cannot be close to other dogs. The Yellow Dog Project is a registered charity created to bring awareness to dogs who need space while training, recovering from surgery, or being rehabilitated. For more information, and to get a free yellow ribbon for your dog, go to yellowdoguk.co.uk There’s a new code of practice for professional dog walkers. Developed in collaboration with Dogs Trust and RSPCA, it provides guidelines to ensure the highest standards of welfare and covers issues such as transport, exercise, and group walking. For more information see www.petcare.org.uk

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Aspen Veterinary Surgery

HOME WANTED!

Your pet matters to us

Felix and Nala

6 moth old Felix and Nala are brother and sister. They are exceptionally friendly and love human company, lots of cuddles and plenty of play time. They are very bonded so need to be homed as a pair.

They are looking for a home with owners who are around a large portion of the day (not regularly left alone for more than 4-6 hours). They are well-socialised so would suit a family or household where they would get a large amount of interaction. They need a safe garden to explore and no busy roads nearby.

They came into care as their owner was moving abroad and was unable to take the lovely pair with them.

If you could give Felix and Nala their forever home please call 0345 260 1387 or email adoption@epsom.cats.org.uk or. Priority will be given to enquiries in the local areas of: KT5,6,9, KT17-23, SM7 and RH3-5.

Epsom Ewell & District Branch http://www.epsom.cats.org.uk If you cannot adopt a cat but would still like to help us please go to https://www.justgiving.com/Epsom-CatsProtection

Join Aspen Pet Care Plan Save Money, Spread Costs, Pay Monthly, Open Mon-Fri: 8am-7.30pm Sat: 8.30-11am 24 hour Emergency Service

www.aspenvets.co.uk 351 Ewell Road, Tolworth, KT6 7BZ

As we have around 7,000 cats and kittens in our care at any one time, we will find you the perfect feline friend.

020 8399 6437

www.cats.org.uk Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)

A place to rest their head, extra support for arthritic bones and a little extra TLC - dogs need all of these things as they grow old. Being aware of the issues they face and what you can do to help, will make their twilight years a happy time for both of you.

An orthopaedic bed with a memory foam mattress will support their joints by moulding itself around them, helping with blood circulation. Problems such as hip dysplasia often show themselves in middle age, so even if you don’t consider your dog to be elderly, it may be worthwhile investing in this type of bed.

Luxury beds A self-heating bed has metallised insulation below the lining and ‘reflects’ your pet’s body heat back for extra warmth. Covered with a sheepskin or fleece outer layer, your dog will love you all winter long!

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

Charley Chau Snuggle Bed £100. www.charleychau.com

Hard floors are very popular with many homeowners and particularly with pet owners, but would you want to sleep on one? An elevated bed keeps your dog away from a cold floor.

One of the most important considerations is the material used to make the bed and mattress. You can buy alpaca fibre and soft fleece fillings, but it’s also important to think about practicality, so zip-off covers should be a priority to maintain hygiene.

A comfortable place to sleep is important for dogs of all ages, but particularly so for those in their later years.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Wimbledon has many of us glued to the TV screen. If you find yourself itching to be out there on the court, why not make 2022 the year you take up tennis? As well as helping you to keep fit and healthy, tennis is a good way to meet new people and it can really help to lift your mood.

The benefits of tennis Tennis is a great all-round exercise. For a start, it’s cardiovascular as it increases your heart rate and breathing, which helps to keep your heart strong. You’ll burn around 400 to 600 calories an hour and work several different muscle groups.

Tennis is also a weight-bearing exercise, so helps to strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of osteoporosis. Plus, it’s good for improving flexibility, balance and coordination.

Who can play Most people can learn tennis as it can be adapted for different needs. Around 500 tennis venues across the UK deliver sessions for people with a disability or long-term health issue.

Wheelchair Tennis is becoming increasingly popular and many clubs have sports wheelchairs available to hire. Visually Impaired Tennis is also growing in popularity. It uses a different court and a special ball that makes a louder noise on impact.

For more details, email disabilitytennis@lta.org.uk.

What you’ll need Some tennis clubs will let you hire a racket. If you need to buy your own, look for one that’s suitable for beginners and has a larger head to make it easier to hit the ball. Rackets have different size handles, so you’ll probably want to try a few out in person rather than buying online. When you grip the handle, there should be around a 1cm gap between your thumb and first finger.

Tennis balls can be picked up pretty cheaply. If you’re a complete beginner, look for ones with red markings. These are slower and lighter than standard tennis balls. The next level up is orange and then green, which is around 25% slower than standard.

What to wear Dress in comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely. Layers are a good idea, especially if you’re playing outdoors. And, of course, you’ll need a decent pair of trainers.

How to learn tennis Whether you have an old racket lurking in a cupboard or you’re a complete beginner, you’re likely to find a suitable class at your local leisure centre or tennis club. If you’d rather have one-to-one coaching, search for an accredited coach at www.lta.org.uk.

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TENNIS CLUB

Saturday 28 May 3 - 5pm. Tea and cake served at 4pm.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME, whether you play already, or you’ve played before but are rusty, or whether you’d like to just have a go! Rackets and balls will be provided and all we ask is that you wear appropriate footwear for the tennis court.

We are situated off Manor Drive in Surbiton, and the entrance is between nos.

11 & 13 Manor Drive. Why not drop in and visit us, we are very friendly and welcoming! Membership is open to all and our subs are very reasonable.

www.surbitonmethodisttennis.org

Each word to be three letters or more (but no plurals), and all must contain the central letter. There’s at least one word which uses all of the letters.

Target: Excellent: 20 or more words Good: 17 words Fair: 14 words

E S To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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BRENDA BLETHYN’S

LIFE AS VERA Award winning actress, Brenda Blethyn, has been captivating TV fans for seven series with her role as the understated detective, Vera, in the ITV drama.

Always dressed in her famous mac and hat to play the unorthodox but brilliantly perceptive Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope, she has recently returned to the screen leading her diligent team of detectives as they investigate two complex and murderous crimes.

There was a hiccup with the latest series in that two episodes were shown and then there had to be a break because of covid restrictions – which disappointed many of the 7m viewers.

‘When I told people there would be more to come but we’d just been delayed, they cheered up somewhat,’ she said.

Vera always boasts an impressive array of well -known faces taking on guest appearances – a testament to the casting department and the general affection for the show.

are happy to come and do just a scene or two.

We also have some brilliant newcomers, such as Megan Purvis, Chloe Harris and Grace Hogg-Robinson.’

Brenda added that the regular cast of Vera play an important part in the success of this longrunning series, working together as a family with great rapport.

‘We have a great laugh too. Lots of people have told me that Jon Morrison is the most convincing copper on the telly! He’s been with Vera the longest and a real anchor.’

She also praises the characters who support her on screen, included Aiden, Mark and Jac. ‘Where would she be without them? She gives them some stick but their loyalty remains steadfast.’

Even the grumpy pathologist seems to enjoy goading Vera.

‘Paul Kaye is hilarious. I love my scenes with him.’

‘We are blessed to have a fantastic casting department,’ said Brenda, who last year won the Rose d’Or Lifetime Achievement Award for her contribution to acting.

‘We’ve had some really good actors appearing in the latest episodes – Bill Ward, Charlie Hardwick, Ann Mitchell, Craig Parkinson to name just a few. We’re fortunate that A-listers

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Aiden (Kenny Doughty) and Vera are practically joined at the hip and Brenda is very happy about their relationship on and off the screen.

‘He is the most wonderful actor to work with, a constant delight,’ she said adding that when people gel within the team they get a chance to continue with the show on a long-term basis.

DC Mark Edwards (Riley Jones) started as a uniformed copper in one episode of the first series and impressed Brenda so much she championed him to become a permanent member of the team. ‘He’s been with us ever since,’ Brenda said.

Fans often visit the location sites when Vera is being filmed and Brenda said she always finds them very friendly.

‘What does surprise me is the age span of the fans. You get older people but also younger junior school age.’

She said that their mums or dads have brought them along and she often takes time out to chat to them.

Vera is filmed in Northumberland and takes around six months to complete each series.

The stunning landscapes, whether coastline, moors or the city, never cease to surprise Brenda.

‘It’s stunning and we have a real mix of everything featured across episodes. Our locations team always continue to surprise us.”

Having made 46 Vera films to date, Brenda said she’d be hard pushed to think of one that was her favourite.

‘Many comes to mind. Most recently I loved filming Tyger Tyger directed by Paul Gay and written by Paul Matthew where a driver is knocked down at the shipping docks and a young lad is kidnapped. Also a very early episode written by Paul Rutman, Little Lazarus, when Vera found herself acting as a caretaker for a boy whose mother was murdered in front of him.’

Being away for so long means missing certain aspects of her home life – particularly completing The Times crossword puzzle.

‘My brother Bill and I both love the cryptic puzzles and we race each other. He actually won the weekly prize once. I haven’t managed that, as he occasionally reminds me if I happen to beat him!’

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‘One lad told me that young people like Vera because she’s in charge of all these men, she keeps them all in their place and she is funny.

I’m glad they get that she does have a sense of humour. Apart from doing her job well.’

It seems there is plenty of opportunity for us to see more of Brenda in her role as the detective as the writer who inspired the series, Ann Cleves, has recently published a new novel called The Darkest Evening.

‘It is a great read. A terrific story. Telling a little more of Vera’s background. I would love to film it one day. There is a lot of snow in it so it would be a great Christmas special. And I mean a LOT of snow. Scotland maybe. Or Iceland? Or what about Norway? That’d be nice.’

As for when another series might happen, Brenda isn’t too sure about the timing.

‘I’ll tell you when I’ve got my breath back!’

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

37

Energy Price Cap Rise of 54% The Government has announced a rise to their price cap, which will impact energy prices for most people in the UK from 1 April 2022.

The increase is driven by a record rise in global gas prices over the last six months, with wholesale prices quadrupling in the last year. It will affect default tariff customers who haven’t switched to a fixed deal and those who remain with their new supplier after their previous supplier exited the market.

The price cap allows energy companies to pass on all reasonable costs to customers, including increases in the cost of buying gas. Since the price cap was last updated in August, the current level does not reflect the unprecedented record rise in gas prices which has since taken place.

Under the price cap mechanism, energy companies will be allowed to pass on these higher costs from April when the new level takes effect. This is because energy companies cannot afford to supply electricity and gas to their customers for less than they have paid for it.

Help is available If you are struggling to pay for energy bills, you should contact your energy supplier as soon as possible. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for extra help with your energy bills or services, such as debt repayment plans, payment breaks, emergency credit for prepayment meters, priority support and schemes like the Winter Fuel Payment or Warm Home Discount rebate.

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Breathing Space Scheme This is a scheme to give households time to receive debt advice and find a solution to sort out their debt problems. Breathing Space will last for 60 days as long as applicants remain eligible, during which time all creditors who have been included will be informed and must stop any collection or enforcement activity. Once the breathing space ends, creditors will be able to collect the debt in the usual way.

For advice call the National Debtline on Freephone 0808 808 4000 or visit www.nationaldebtline.org The Citizens Advice consumer service can provide advice on how customers can resolve problems with their energy provider. You can contact Citizens Advice via webchat, or by calling 0808 223 1133.

Switching suppliers Utility Helpline is a privately-owned, 100% independent business specialising in finding the best, unbiased gas and electricity prices for thier customers.

Their teams are never under any pressure to hit targets, inflate margins, or steer customers towards a particular deal.

Instead, they are motivated to deliver a great service, offer unbiased advice, and pass powerful savings through to their customers. For a quote call David on 07976 449565 or dcramp@utilityhelpline.co.uk.

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Helping people with the cost of living crisis

by Sir Edward Davey, M.P

R

ocketing heating bills, rising food prices and income and national insurance taxes up sharply – together it’s hitting families and pensioners hard. The independent Government watchdog, the Office for Budget Responsibility, reports that living standards are set to fall sharply – at the fastest rate since the 1950s.

What can be done to help people with this cost of living crisis?

Cut VAT, help with heating bills In the immediate term, we should help people by cutting taxes and energy bills. This can be done, and can be afforded, if we adopt an urgent package of fair tax changes.

Top of my list is a VAT cut of 2.5% for everyone - a tax cut worth £600 for the average family. This also helps struggling high street businesses too, and cuts the rate of inflation.

Next I’d offer increased support targeted to more vulnerable people – double the winter fuel allowance for pensioners (who are seeing their pensions cut by inflation) and increase substantially a little known support for some more vulnerable people called “Warm Homes Discount”.

To pay for this, I favour a windfall tax on the unexpectedly high super-profits of oil and gas companies. These firms are benefitting hugely from the dramatic rise in the global price of oil and gas. It’s only right that some of their profits are recycled to help families and pensioners struggling with sky high heating bills.

Renewable power and home insulation Yet we also need a longer term solution to keep people’s energy bills down – a solution to ensure the UK can cut imports of oil and gas, and a solution to accelerate dramatically efforts to tackle climate change.

The good news is, that 2 tried and tested solutions exist to help meet these three goals – of cheaper, less polluting energy and more independent energy. And unlike expensive nuclear power, they are solutions that can be implemented fast, over this decade, rather than waiting for nuclear power stations that will take till the mid-2030s to build, at the very earliest.

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

Those quicker, cheaper energy solutions are renewable power and home insulation.

I speak from experience. As Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, I led policies that helped insulate more than one million homes – so those families now needed much less gas to heat their homes so are less impacted by rising prices.

More significantly, our policies saw the UK’s renewable power nearly quadruple, made the UK the world leader in offshore wind and saw the cost of renewable power fall dramatically: the cost of wind and solar power today is cheaper than electricity from coal, gas or oil – as well as being much cleaner, and not having to be imported.

Renewable power plants paying consumers back And many existing renewable power plants are already helping the crisis by partly offsetting the rise in energy costs caused by rising gas prices.

Under the policies I introduced, an offshore wind farm has something called a “contract for difference.”

Under this type of contract, the power plant is guaranteed a price for its power, for 15 years – the socalled “strike price”.

If the market price for electricity is lower than the strike price, the offshore wind farm gets a “top up” or subsidy, to its strike price, equivalent to the difference between the “strike price” and the market price.

But if the market price for power is higher than the “strike price”, the wind farm pays back the difference – helping to keep bills down.

And with the market price for electricity so high now, because of the global price of gas, renewable power plants with these “contracts for difference” are being forced to pay huge amounts back, ultimately offsetting a little the rise in bills caused by fossil fuels.

It’s estimated these “contracts for difference” will pay back around £1 billion this year.

Conclusion So these are some ways to help people with the cost of living – now and in the future. Immediate help with tax cuts for everyone and targeted help for energy bills.

And a major programme of renewables and home insulation. But it needs strong political leadership.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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QUIZ SOLUTIONS CROSSWORD SOLUTION

TWO M NUTE TR AL

3 LETTERS ITS LIP LIT PIT SIT SIP TIP SUP PUS PUT TUP UPS

4 LETTERS LIPS LIST LISP LUST PITS PLUS PUTS SILT SLIP SLIT SPIT SUITS

TIPS TUPS

HIDATO SOLUTION

CODEWORD SOLUTION

5 LETTERS SPILT TULIP SPLIT 6 LETTERS TULIPS

WORDSEARCH ANSWER

Nature abhors a vacuum and so do I. Anne Gibson

WORDWHEEL ANSWER SIMPLE WORD LADDER ANSWER (This is one solution, there may be others) NAPE name lame lace lack pack peck NECK

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CHILDREN’S PAGE The missing objects are: (c) Shapes (c) Flags

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What’s on in May:April 2021

21st: 41 Gun Salute for the Queen’s 96th Birthday, Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery, in Hyde Park 23rd: St George’s Day 24th: Family Easter Duck Trail at London Wetlands Centre Barnes

Events in May National Heart Month; National Share a Story Month; 2nd: May Day Bank Holiday 3-8th: Deaf Awareness Week; Anaphalaxis Week; 5th: Local Elections 8th: Deadline for June issue submissions 9th: Europe Day 10th: Mental Health Awareness Week; Foster Care Fortnight 12-15th: Photo London at Somerset House 16th: National Smile Month to 16th June 17th: Walk to School Week 21st: FA Cup Final 24-28th: RHS Chelsea Flower Show Events for June SANDS Awareness Month 2nd: Queen’s Trooping the Colour Bank Holiday 2-5th:The Big Jubilee Lunch for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee 3rd: Queen’s Platinum Jubliee Bank Holiday 6th: Whit Monday 6-12th:Carers’ Week 8th: Deadline for July/August issue submissions 11th: Queen’s Official Birthday Celebration 11-12th: Open Gardens Weekend 14-18th: Royal Ascot 19th: Fathers’ Day 21st: Longest Day Summer Solstice 22nd:Windrush Day 26th: Armed Forces Day 27-10th July: Wimbledon Tennis Championship

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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COMMUNITY PAGE

HOOK ALLOTMENTS AND GARDENS ASSOCIATION Our friendly allotment association was founded over 50 years ago and is run by volunteers.

We provide a wide range of composts, fertilisers, seeds; gardening products at not-for-profit club prices to members.

Membership costs £5 a year and our trading facility is situated next to the entrance to the allotment plots, just beyond the rugby club pavilion, at the rear of King Edward’s Recreation Ground, Hook Road, Chessington.

Sun: 10am-12noon Email: hooklga@outlook.com

Hook Leisure Gardeners Association

With the ongoing terrible crisis in Ukraine, there are several organisations that are still taking donations. You may prefer to make a monetary donation to one of the following websites: British Red Cross: donate.redcross.org.uk Save the Children: savethechildren.org.uk UNHCR Refugee Agency: unrefugees.org.uk International Rescue Committee: help.rescue. uk.org Disasters Emergency Committee: donation.dec. org.uk UNICEF: unicef.org.uk refugeeactionkingston.org.uk International Committee of Red Cross: icrc.org For animals use one of these websites: International Fund for Animal Welfare: ifaw.org/ uk Humane Society International: donate.hsi.org/ ukraine RSPCA: rspca.org.uk animalcharities.co.uk/ukraine For cats and Dogs:

networkforanimals.org/appeal/ukraine-emergency

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COMMUNITY PAGE

Surbiton Bird Club

Monthly meetings at St Matthew’s School, Langley Road, Surbiton, KT6 6LW 7.30pm-9.30pm Membership includes access to Hogsmill Nature Reserve and hides

Tues 17th May: Talk by Rick Simpson of Wader Quest. The fascinating world of waders, birds of moorland and estuary, and the needs to conserve their varied habitat.

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Field Outings: Friendly walks for beginners to experts.

To confirm participation, arrange time and meeting Across: place, and pre-arrange lifts if needed and available:

October Crossword

6. Colourless liquid formerly used as an

anaesthetic (5) Full details Surbitonbirds.org.

020 8399 9121 7. Near or close to (8)

Very Otmoor poisonous metallic element Sun 24th10.

April: RSPB OX3 9TD. (7) Flood plains, 11. Continually repeated over a period of time (7) grazing marshes and reedbeds, expect waders, 12. Silvery-white radioactive metallic element (7) warblers 13. & possibly cranes.

To go into again (2-5) Weds May midweek walk: Staines 14.4th: Slowmorning, witted or stupid, particularly followingMoor Sun May 8th: all day, alcohol (11)Keyhaven & Pennington Marshes.

Weds May allwho day,studies Pulborough Brooks RSPB period 19.11th: Student intensively in a short Sun May 15th: Caoch of time (7) trip to Arne RSPB, Dorset.

Convert ordinary language RSPB into code (7) Sun May21.

22nd: all day, Dungeness Advance beyond the usual limit (7) Sun May25.

29th: Morning, Horton Country Park 25. Of little substance or significance (7)

26. At the right time of year (2,6) Full details Surbitonbirds.org. 020 8399 9121 27. Plant - sucking insects (5)

Down:

1. Terminate gradually (5,3) 2. A Sultanate in northwestern Borneo (6) 3. Horologist (10) 4. Slightly open (4) 5. Engage somebody to enter the army (6) 6. Represents or performs as if in a play (6) 8. Come to terms with (7) 9. Shortened term for provocation (5) 13. Returning to political office (10) 15. Unusually great in size (7) 16. After sunrise and before sunset (8) 17. Strong and sharp (5) 18. Having little emotion or sensibility (6) 20. Add to the very end (6) 22. The highest point; culminate (6) 24. Compass point (4)

October Sudoku

Remember, you can pick up a copy of A Berrylands Companion magazine at the following: Surbiton & Tolworth Libraries, Shan’s Pharmacy, Ex Cellar, Surbiton, The Lamb, MBE Surbiton, Slimming World meetings Balaclava Road.

Read it whilst you wait at: Aspen Vets, Berrylands Autocare Garage, Confidental Dentist Surgery.

If you would like copies at your business please call me on: 020 8274 0096

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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What’s On/Local Events

1st Tuesday: NHS Retirement Club, For information call Lorna: 020 8337 4121

Last Sunday of the month: Women on Wheels, 020 8547 5865. E-mail: ccst@ rbk.kingston.gov.uk Ballet In Surbiton: For info: Tel: 020 8398 2460/6140, Em: balletinsurbiton@aol.com www.balletinsurbiton.co.uk Chit-Chat Sketch: We meet at Court Farm garden centre on Mondays at 2pm, and Thursdays at 10am. Times are subject to change & availability spaces are limited. To book your space please contact07889 897 017 kppart@outlook.com Please bring your sketch books & pencils. £8 session includes a drink.

Cornerston Church: Tel: 0208 549 0733. info@cornerstonechurchkingston.org Fircroft Listening Café: Phone or text: 07598 910797. Email: listeningcafe@ thefircrofttrust.org Buses 71, 465, K1, K4.

Free Healing Meditation Workshop for Stress & Anxiety: For more information on what to bring & to sign up, go to: www. georgiemacs.com Hook Church: If you would like to pray with someone, Hook Church Brook Road KT6 5DB is open Saturday mornings, 11-12.30. You would be most welcome. Info: 0208 391 0335 Hope in Depression: Free course that educates &equips adults & their supporters, with tools & proven tips about how to cope better with depression & anxiety. Every Tuesday hosted by Christ Church, Surbiton Hill via Zoom for 6 weeks starting 22nd February29th March from 7:15-9:30pm. Expert speakers explore different aspects of mental health each week. Info & Sign up ccsurbiton.org/hidc or call 07423 144803 Kingston Camera Club: For more information visit: www.kingstoncameraclub. com Kingston Circle Dance Group: Kingston Quaker Centre, 14 Fairfield East, KT1 2PT,

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2:30-4:30, First Saturday every month, Social Dancing -- all welcome, Tel: 020 8399 8684 Restarted after the Covid disruption Kingston Pensioners’ Forum: Contact Diane Double, Tel: 07762 663 483/020 8397 5084, email: kingstonpensionersforum@hotmail. co.uk Kingston Philatelic Society: Thurs 7th April: President’s Display; Thurs 7th April: President’s Display; 5th May: Modern issues from 1990; 20th May: visiting speaker. Info: Brian Sole Tel: 01932 220 677 or email: brian.sole@ btinternet.com Kingston Speakeasy: Contact Alick Munro on alick@munro.com or call 0208 892 9243 for date of next meeting.

Ladies Exercise Club: Keep Moving friendly & fun exercise classes for over 60s Fridays 10.15am. Mid Sept to June. 1st class free, then £6/session.

Be rrylands Centre, King Charles Road KT5 8PF. Call Mary, 01483 284 716 or maryedwards77s@gmail.com Mind in Kingston:www.mindkingston. org.uk or 020 8255 3939 Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom: At St Mark’s Church Hall, Church Hill Rd, from Sept 8th, fortnightly. Fee £5. Contact Libby Curzon, 020 8391 1215. Email: curzone@ hotmail.com Oasis daytime group for over 60s at Emmanuel Church, Grand Avenue, Tolworth. Our meetings in April are on the 4th & 18th May at 2.30 pm. We’ll have time to enjoy some icebreakers, chat, do a jigsaw puzzle, listen to a 5 minute Bible-based talk relevant to our lives and enjoy refreshments and time to chat.

For further details, please call 020-8390 2372.

Open Door: A friendship group aimed mainly at seniors, meeting in the lounge

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What’s On/Local Events

at Christ Church from 2.15-4.00pm on alternate Thursdays at Christ Church, Surbiton Hill, (off King Charles Road).

28th April for tea & entertainment. May 12th we have a speaker from Insight, & May 26th we aim to celebrate the Queen’s 70th Jubilee! Newcomers welcome. For further information and any updates please visit www.ccsurbiton.org or call the office: 0208490 7215 St Marks Church: Weds mornings 10.0011.30 Stay and Play for Toddlers and Carers at St Mark’s Church Hall, St Mark’s Hill. Friday Mornings Coffee and Cake corner 10-11.30am, drop in for coffee at St Andrew’s Church, Maple Road, no booking required for any of them.

St Matthew’s Church: Come along to the Balance Community Cafe every Wednesday 10am-12 for tea, coffee, cakes and light lunches, with a Bereavement Cafe meeting on the 4th Wednesday each month at 10.30am. Everyone welcome.

Surbiton Chess Club: Now meets every Tuesday evening at Tolworth Reform Church, 90 Elgar Avenue, KT5 9JR from 7.30pm -10pm. New members welcome.

Further details & our Covid policy from: www.surbitonchessclub.co.uk/ email: enquiries@surbitonchessclub.co.uk or at twitter@SurbitonChess.co.uk/ Scottish Country Dancing: Check website: www.surbitoncaledonian.co.uk or call: 01932 784 866

St John’s Church: Community Café open April 2nd and May 7th, at St John’s Church, Grove Lane KT1 2SU from 10am - 1pm. Come for your elevenses, or an early lunch with friends. Enjoy toasted sandwiches, real coffee and home made cakes. All Welcome. For more info: see website or email parishhall@ stjohnskingston.co.uk Surbiton Club for the Blind and Visually Impaired: We meet every other Tuesday 2-4pm in the Methodist Church next to

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

the fire station. Chat, entertainment and afternoon teas are served. We welcome newcomers readily. Lifts available.

Further details 07443643716 Surbiton Floral Club: Tel: 020 8399 8193 Surbiton Women’s Institute: The meeting on Tues 10th May, we will discuss our Annual Resolutions Vote, followed by members’ talks and social time. On Tuesday 14th June we will celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee with a party, even making our own decorated crowns Held 2.00-4pm British Legion, Hollyfield Road, Surbiton, KT5 9AL, on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. All visitors are welcome, 1st meeting free, then guests are asked for a £4 donation towards the WI funds.

Refreshments provided.

Talking of Trains in Surbiton: Programme of talks at Surbiton Library Hall, each Wednesday evening from 15th Sept 2021, until March 7th 2022. presentations on Railway Subjects by Resident Speaker Dick Crane & Guests. Class fee £50 covering 22 meetings.Details on www. talkingoftrains.co.uk More details on website: www.talkingoftrains.co.uk Tolworth United Reformed Church, please call Roger on 07525 410 083 / 0202 8393 4270 or email jones.ra@btinternet.com for information.

Tolworth World of Dance: Dance for Fun, Fitnes & Friends Wednesday (term time) Mornings: 10.30-12.00. St George’s, Hamilton Avenue, Tolworth KT6 7PT. First time FREE, then £5/week, pay as you go. Contact Phil or Brenda: EM: philip. steventon@btinternet.com Facebook/ Tolworth World of Dance. Tel: 020 8397 9649 Twickenham Jazz Club: Wednesday nights at The Cabbage Patch in Twickenham, from 7.30pm-10.30pm. World renowned Jazz Musicians live! Please visit our website to check the upcoming events: www. twickenhamjazzclub.com

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Please mention the magazine when contacting advertisers Index Home & Garden Car Maintenance

11 13 2 15 25 29 13 31 47 23 23 27 11 12 14

All Your Garden Needs Berrylands Property Maintenance Carpets4U GreenCleen HoneyBee Roofing KB Design Leverett Electricals NKM Studios R.J.Tree Services Richey Brickwork Robinsons & Sons Roofs of Epsom Will Lord William Stallion Electricals Gardening Home & Interiors Home Products

7 5 35 27 5 35 48 22

Rest & Relaxation Cine Sanctuary Home Instead King George Field Bowls Club Rebel Waltz Cycle Solutions Steph Edwards Natural Therapist Surbiton Methodist Tennis Club Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club Health

7 43 30

Children & Education Kingston Grammar School GASPA Kids Page

33 33 32 33

Veterinary Aspen Veterinary Surgery Cats Protection League Walking the Dog Pet Care

15 10

19 23 21 17

Alan Sursham Berrylands Autocare K&P Tyres Volks Autos

9 5 8

Food & Drink Glenmore House Carvery Prithi Recipe

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Solicitors Lewis & Dick

Articles & Editorials 42/43 Community Pages 43/44 What’s On & Local Events Pages 17 Crossword 3 Useful Telephone Numbers 39 Sir Edward Davey M.P 36 Brenda Blethyn Interview 6 Finance 18 Books 16 Travel: Niagara 4 Choosing a Nursing Home

Want To Advertise Your Business?

Just because there is already an advert for a similar one, please do not think we will not take your advert!

There are so many businesses, trades and services that are not represented in

A Berrylands Companion From as little as £54 a month your advert can feature here for a year!

An email with your artwork will ensure it is featured.

So What is Stopping You? Call now!Contact Karen:

tel: 020 8274 0096 email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Magazine printed by Warwick Printing, Warwickshire

R.J. Tree Services providing excellence locally for 15 years.

Our qualified & professional staff are dedicated to the highest levels of service in every instance.

Free Quotes Tree Felling Stump Removal Hedgeworks

Tree Reductions / Crown Thins Tree Surveys & Reports £10 million insurance liability cover Diploma qualified NPTC licensed Office: 020 8399 0103 Mobile: 07980 903881 info@rjtrees.co.uk LOOK FOR THE RED TREE!

R.J. Tree Services, Berrylands, Surbiton Visit our website for information and videos on all aspects of our work www.rjtrees.co.uk

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