Bexley's Summer Sizzler 2018 by Peter Davies

S ' Y E L X BE

R E UMMR SiZZLE 2018

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WELCOME TO BEXLEY'S

SUMMER R E L Z Z i S 2018 The school summer holiday is finally here and now you’re probably wondering how to keep your children entertained for the next six weeks.

Thankfully, your copy of the Summer Sizzler 2018 is packed full of ideas, events and activities happening right across the borough all summer long.

Visit Thamesmead in July to join in its biggest ever party as it celebrates its 50th Birthday! At this fun-packed one-day event you’ll see exceptional local talent, a colourful carnival and yummy food. Also celebrating a birthday, in their 80th year, Beano is taking over your local library to bring you ‘Mischief Makers, Summer Reading Challenge’. Join Dennis, Gnasher and friends to solve clues, read books, collect stickers and get a medal for taking part. Make sure you enter our fun ‘spot the difference’ competition on page 24 with the chance to win a family ticket to the Brick City exhibition at Hall Place. This miniature world is made entirely of LEGO® and kids can even have a go at building their own creations.

Contents

Thamesmead’s 50th Birthday 7 Danson watersports 11 Summer reading challenge 13 Brick City at Hall Place 19 Events map 20 What's on 21-23 Competition 24

If you want to wind down in the evenings, why not take a blanket to Danson Park and enjoy watching Labyrinth or Moulin Rouge at the Open Air Cinema?

Want to advertise in next year's Summer Sizzler?

All of these great ideas and more can be found across these pages and in our ‘what’s on’ guide.

Don’t forget, you can keep up-to-date with what’s going on in the borough all year round at www.bexley.gov.uk/events or by following @whatsoninbexley on Twitter.

Jennie McPherson jennie.mcpherson@lon don. newsquest.co.uk 01689 885610 www.newsshopper.co.u k

Wishing you the best summer yet!

Cllr Teresa O’Neill OBE Leader, London Borough of Bexley

To do list... Have fun this summer!

Produced by the London Borough of Bexley in partnership with the News Shopper Phone: 020 8303 7777 Website: www.bexley.gov.uk Email: communications@bexley.gov.uk

Clean and green

FOOD FOR THOUGHT SMALL CHANGE E C N E R FE F I D G I B When it comes to eating healthily, reducing the amount of food we waste, and recycling what’s left over, it only takes a tiny change to make a big impact. If everyone in Bexley recycled one banana skin today we could turn that into enough energy to charge 463,994 mobile phones. That’s why we’re launching the Small Change, Big Difference campaign this summer to help our residents eat healthier food, waste less food and recycle more of the inedible bits. Keep an eye out for posters displayed across the borough and social media ads which will share tips and small changes you can make. We’ll be holding Bexley’s very own ‘Good Grub Festival’ on Saturday 14 July at Hurst Community Centre, Sidcup, as part of a variety of food focused events taking place this summer. Residents can sample a variety of healthy foods, as well as take part in FREE activities such as Bollywood dancing, kick boxing and circuit training. Cooking demonstrations and the opportunity to make healthy homemade pizza from scratch will also be on offer. You can book a place now at www.goodgrubfestival.eventbrite.co.uk Look out for us and our smoothie bike at pop-up events around the borough where the Waste and Recycling team will be handing out FREE smoothies, as well as offering advice about food waste recycling and how you can make use of your left over food.

Enter our competition Want to see your own recipe published? Send in your favourite recipe that uses some of the top 10 household wasted foods: potatoes, bread, pork/ham/bacon, poultry (chicken/turkey/duck), carrots, cake, apple, breakfast cereal, lettuce and yoghurt. The winning recipe will be selected on imaginative use of left overs, a good range of ingredients, having a healthy twist that appeals to a wide audience and is simple and quick to make. Please send your recipe to wasteteam@bexley.gov.uk by Sunday 22 July.

Top tips to save you money this summer 1. Use up left over roast chicken in a chicken wrap, salad or sandwich. 2. If you sometimes throw away a few slices of bread, you could try freezing some as soon as you get it home. Then use it for sandwiches or toast. 3. Extra cooked vegetables will keep for up to 48hrs in the fridge and you can then add these to salads in your lunch. 4. Overripe bananas can be frozen (mashed up or diced) to make an instant ice cream, or to be added to a smoothie. For more information on small changes that can make a difference go to www.smallchangebigdifference.london/bexley

Clean and green

Join the plastic picking revolution!

Make the pledge today and earn 300 bonus London Green Points!

Dropping plastic does more than just make our streets look untidy; it can get blown into our rivers, which eventually join the sea. One million sea birds and 100,000 marine mammals are seriously harmed every year from plastic in our oceans. Bexley has 570 street litter bins, two reuse and recycling centres, weekly recycling collections for residents and businesses and various recycling points. But we still collected over 3,000 tonnes of litter from Bexley’s streets in 2017! That’s why we’re asking you to be a Litter Hero and pick up at least one piece of plastic litter a week from our streets.

And don’t forget to share how you #DoitforBexley on social media l

More than one million bags are used every minute across the world!

It takes 500 to 1,000 years for plastic to degrade

Plastic makes up about 90% of all litter floating on the ocean's surface

Plastic chemicals can be absorbed by the body

50% of plastic is used just once and thrown away

Enough plastic is thrown away each year to circle the earth four times!

Please help us make a difference. Join our pledge at www.localgreenpoints.com/doitforbexley

Bexley schools get green fingers Our Public Health team have teamed up with Garden Organic to bring gardening spaces and outdoor classrooms to 10 Bexley primary schools - St Augustine, Belvedere Junior, Christ Church CofE, Days Lane, East Wickham Primary Academy, Lessness Heath, Old Bexley CE, St Paul’s (Slade Green) Primary School, St Thomas More RC and Upton.

Project Learning Garden aims to teach children where and how food is grown and the cooking skills they’ll need later in life, whilst encouraging them to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Pupils went to a training day in March at St Augustine CE Primary School where they learned about different curricular activities, food growing and took part in a cooking session. Each school has been given a kit (worth £2,500) funded by Seeds of Change, which includes everything from raised beds to bug pots and weighing scales to induction hobs. Project Learning Garden coordinators visit the schools to review their gardens and support them to continue outdoor learning independently.

Stronger communities

Do you run a local community group?

y e l x Be mun ity

Com ottery

If you run a local community group, club, association or organisation, you can benefit from the Bexley Community Lottery.

We’re setting up the lottery with Bexley Voluntary Service Council to help provide a way to raise funds for local good causes. There are no set-up costs or administration fees. All you need to do is fill in an online form and, once we have checked everything over, we'll set your good cause up with its own lottery page to share with your supporters. After that, just encourage your supporters to sign up to play the lottery once it launches later this year. Tickets go on sale later this year and you’ll be notified of the date for the first draw. You’ll keep 50% of all ticket sales for your good cause, which will be sent direct to your account every month. None of the money raised will go to the Council. The Bexley Community Lottery is being established to support the Council’s aim of building a stronger community. To register visit www.bexleycommunitylottery.co.uk/good-causes

As the Sizzler went to print Broadway, Bexleyheath was experiencing some very extraordinary happenings. The Council partnered with The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama to produce the ‘Performing Places’ programme in Bexleyheath. Performing Places used drama to create an exciting story designed to encourage those that live in or visit a place to see it in its best light and to understand each other better. Bexleyheath Broadway was chosen as the location as it is a thriving town centre and a bustling transport hub, especially for young people after school. Schools and local community organisations close to the town centre took part in workshops as part of the project, it ended with a week of activities and an exciting interactive performance on 30 June. Performing Places will take place over two years, with the second year acting as a sequel and finale. To find out more and keep up to date with the project visit www.bexley.gov.uk/performingplaces

Time to play out!

We’ve teamed up with London Play to help your neighbourhood set up its own Play Streets events. Play Streets is designed to bring people together for a few hours, allowing kids to play outside safely in their local area. We’re helping residents who are interested in becoming Play Street Co-ordinators, to share the idea with neighbours, get their support and work together to organise a day of play. We’ll also be supporting residents with applications for temporary road closures for a few hours, as a one off or as regularly as each month. This is to reduce traffic during events to make sure everyone stays safe, while still providing access for residents. Not all streets will be suitable for the scheme, for example some cannot be closed to through traffic, and some may not have sufficient support from the majority of residents on the street. For more information about Play Streets email catherine@londonplay.org.uk

Stronger communities

Summer holiday fun in ERiTH!

If you are looking for low cost ideas on how to keep the kids occupied during the summer holidays, then why not visit Erith and join in some fun family activities, while also taking in some of the town’s hidden gems?

Discover the Old Carnegie Library whose basement is currently being restored and is due to reopen this autumn, or explore London’s longest pier. Or why not take in a show at the Erith Playhouse or simply enjoy Christ Church’s beautiful stained glass windows?

We're working with local partners to put together a programme of events to take place in Erith during the summer. These will include an Erith Kitchen and a summer riverside festival on the pier. Details coming soon. For more information go to www.greatererith.com and follow us on Facebook and twitter @GreaterErith Erith-based arts organisation The Exchange are also planning a host of free family activities for summer and autumn this year, including Thames Trails and Craft Challenges! Keep an eye on their website for more details www.theexchangeerith.com

Young resident Amber Keene explores Erith

The much-loved Thamesmead Festival returns to the iconic shores of Southmere Lake on 14 July. And this year London’s New Town celebrates a rather special birthday… July marks 50 years since the Gooch family took their place in local history as the first-ever residents of Thamesmead. While technically a few Bronze Age settlers might have beaten them to it, no one’s letting that get in the way of a fantastic anniversary party.

HAPPY BiRTHDAY THAMESMEAD! Thamesmead’s 50th Birthday Party Saturday 14 July Southmere Lake and Park

If the Gooch’s felt a bit isolated on that first night, they need not have worried. They were followed over the decades by new families and communities from all over the world. That same vibrant community has come together to put on a fun-packed one-day festival showcasing exceptional local talent, a spectacular community carnival and delicious food. Bring all the family and enjoy a great day out in Thamesmead.

Living Well

Join a Bexley parkrun Put on your running shoes and get ready to have a fun run in Bexley parks. If you are aged between 4 and 14 years old, you can join in with our free junior 2km run at Lesnes Abbey! Make sure you’re signed up first at www.parkrun.org.uk/lesnesabbeywoods-juniors If grown-ups want to join in the fun you can do a joint run at Danson Park! Just make sure you are registered first at www.parkrun.org.uk/bexley

A summer of Bexley on Bikes Why not plan some fun cycling days out this Summer? It’s good for you, cheap and can be enjoyed by the whole family!

Hot spot for cycling The Thames Cycle Path is ideal for families with younger children as it runs alongside the river, it’s away from traffic and also pretty flat. You can also find lots of suggestions for routes and social rides in your local area at www.letsride.co.uk

Bikeability Our popular free Bikeability courses for children (aged 10+) will be running again during the summer holidays. Bikeability is a cycle training programme all about gaining practical skills and understanding how to cycle on today’s roads. Bikeability gives everyone the skills and confidence for all kinds of cycling. There are three Bikeability levels. Levels 1 and 2 are taught as a combined course to introduce the basics of road riding. Level 3 takes trainees to an advanced level, including planning and making independent journeys on busier roads. We now have online registration to make it even easier to book your course! If your child has missed out, or would benefit from further training, check out www.bexley.gov.uk/services/travel-and-transport/road-safety

Family cycling Throughout the summer holidays we’ll also be running family cycle sessions, where children of all ages and their parents/carers can learn how to ride, improve their skills and even learn how to cycle together on local roads. Find out more at: www.bexley.gov.uk/events

ALL COURSES ARE FREE OF CHARGE

Living well

Come to Camp Adventure!

The Camp Adventure holiday scheme provides a fun and safe environment where children can take part in sporting and play activities, develop their confidence and make new friends. Camp Adventure is open to children aged from 5 to 11 years 11 months, providing half day, full day and full week care.

Under 8s (5-7 years) - maximum 25 children Over 8s (8-11 years) - maximum 25 children Camp Adventure takes place at Crook Log, Erith and Sidcup Leisure Centres Brampton Road, Bexleyheath DA7 4HH Avenue Road, Erith DA8 3AT Hurst Road, Sidcup DA15 9AE Food and break times 9.30am (10am for Sidcup Leisure Centre) - breakfast 12.30pm - lunch 3pm - afternoon break

Children can enjoy a bouncy castle and soft play area, parties, themed play days, arts and crafts and sports including swimming, football, basketball, badminton, rounders and more in the sports hall. Monday to Friday, non-term time, 8am to 6pm

Breakfast and lunch are available for purchase when signing in on the day, or children can bring a packed lunch. Healthy snacks including flapjacks and fresh fruit are available to purchase during the afternoon break. Please see our Camp Adventure Menu on site for more information. Booking Daily and weekly tickets are available and can be booked by members and non-members. For further information please contact Crook Log Leisure Centre on 020 8304 9090

Become a Bexley Cadet With detachments in Bexleyheath, Crayford, Erith and Belvedere, it’s easy to join one of the biggest and best clubs around.

You’ll be spending your spare time taking part in adventurous activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, archery and abseiling. There will also be plenty of chances to play all your favourite sports, because the ACF has competitions for both boys and girls at county, regional and national level. OK, so you might end up a little wet and muddy, but wouldn’t you rather be having the time of your life with some great new mates, instead of just sitting in front of a TV or computer in your room? Boys and girls of all abilities aged 12+ welcome. Find out more by calling 020 8694 6533, email gl-se-ceo@rfca.org.uk or visit armycadets.com

10.

Special Sizzler offer

Living well

Come on down to Danson Watersports Centre this Summer! Children’s Holiday Scheme Sailing and kayaking activities for all ability levels for children aged 8 to 16 years. No experience necessary, all equipment provided. Child must be water confident to take part. Booking is essential 10am to 3pm/£25 for a day/£100 for the week Monday 23 July to Friday 27 July Monday 30 July to Friday 3 August Monday 6 August to Friday 10 August Monday 13 August to Friday 17 August Monday 20 August to Friday 24 August Tuesday 28 August to Friday 31 August

Extra time holiday scheme - new for 2018 To support busy mums and dads the centre now offers an extra time holiday scheme where children can be dropped off at the centre from 9am and picked up by 5pm. During the extra time sessions the children will take part in a mixture of land based and water based activities. Time slots: 9am to 10am, 3pm to 4pm 4pm to 5pm (must be pre-booked)

£2 off Row Boats hire in July and August for Sizzler readers Just bring this ad along to the centre

£8 per hour per child/session

Youth night Every Wednesday 5pm to 7pm, £8 per child For children aged 8 to 16 years. No experience necessary, all equipment provided, child must be water confident. A mixture of sailing and kayaking activities provided by our qualified staff. Booking is essential.

RYA Youth Stages 1 to 4 Sailing Courses The centre provides the RYA Youth Stages 1 to 4 sailing courses for children aged 8 and above. Cost for each stage course is £120 and the course takes two days to complete. Contact the centre for more details.

Row boats on Danson Lake Our traditional row boats are a great way to enjoy the day at Danson Lake and are fun for all the family. Each row boat seats a maximum of five adults, dogs are welcome aboard. Opening times: Weekends, Bank Holidays and school holidays between April and October 10am to late. watersports@bexley.gov.uk 020 8303 2828 Follow us on Twitter @Danson_WSC

11.

Living well

The Reading Agency and libraries are excited to be working with Beano in their 80th anniversary year to bring you Mischief Makers, Summer Reading Challenge 2018. Coming to all Bexley Libraries, the Summer Reading Challenge is taking place during the summer holidays, from 14 July to 8 September 2018. Explore a map of Beanotown to find the mysterious buried treasure and become ultimate mischief makers! Dennis, Gnasher and friends will help you solve clues and collect stickers, having lots of fun and adventures along the way!

Simply sign up at your local library for FREE, and then read at least six library books of your choice to collect your rewards. Plus, you’ll receive a medal and certificate when you complete the challenge. To find out more visit www.readingagency.org.uk/summerreadingchallenge At Bexley’s libraries not only are there shelves of wonderful books to borrow, we also have a wide selection of FREE eBooks, eAudio books, comics and graphic novels to read on your computer, phone or tablet, including BigNate, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Transformers, Wimpy Kids and Dork Diaries. Come along and visit your local library and discover the amazing things going on this summer. To find out more visit www.bexley.gov.uk/libraries

©DC Thomson Ltd (2018)

Libraries are going digital Get hands-on with technology such as virtual reality, 3D printing, and robotics at our Digital Festivals.

There’s something for the whole family at Bexley Libraries this summer -

We also have a monthly Digiclub for young people aged 10 to 16 to take part in digital projects and Code Clubs for ages 9 to 13 who want to learn different coding languages.

Coffee mornings and afternoons

Games, craft, chess and LEGO Clubs

Reading groups

Remember! eBooks, eMagazines and eComics are available for free using your library card.

Bexley Battle Gamers

Living well with dementia

Pop in parlours

Visit www.bexley.gov.uk/libraries to find out more

13.

Living well

Staying safe in the SUN

Whether you are heading to the beach, your local park or in your garden, it is really important to think about sun protection for you and your children. Follow these tips to enjoy the sunshine safely:

Stay in the shade - stay indoors or in the shade

between 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its strongest. Or use a parasol or a play tent to provide shade. Keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight, especially around midday.

Wear protective clothing - hats and sunglasses provide extra protection for your face, neck and eyes.

Timi’s transformation

We’ve now helped 256 families to adopt a healthier lifestyle through our 12-week family

lifestyle programme - Alive ‘N’ Kicking.

Eight year old Timi Ogunrinde joined his local sessions at St Paul’s Church in Erith in September 2016. His parents say they can really see the difference. “Junk food has definitely been reduced in our home, now we’re fully aware of the health risks”, they said. They spoke very highly about the programme; “the extra added touches made a big difference to how fun and informative the sessions were.”

before

after

Keep hydrated - encourage children to drink

regularly, especially if they have been running around.

Top up sun cream - choose SPF15 or higher with at least a 4 star UVA rating. Put on 30 minutes before heading out and reapply throughout the day, especially if swimming. Cover exposed skin; shoulders, back of the neck, tops of ears, nose, cheeks and feet.

Well Baby Clinics

Come along to one of our well baby clinics to weigh your baby, get information and advice and speak with a Health Visitor. Call 0300 330 5777 for more information or visit www.bexley0to19.co.uk to access our Health Visitor and School Nurse Live Chat.

Clinic opening times

Barnard Health Centre 43 Granville Road, Sidcup DA14 4TA Monday & Thursday - 9.30am to 11.30am (self-weighing only) Danson Youth Centre Brampton Road, Bexleyheath DA7 4EZ Wednesday & Friday - 9.30am to 11.30am Erith Health Centre 50 Pier Road, Erith DA8 1RQ Tuesday & Thursday - 1.30pm to 3.30pm Wednesday - 9.30am to 11.30am Lakeside Health Centre Yarnton Way, London SE2 9LH Monday - 1.30pm to 3.30pm Thursday - 9.30am to 11.30am North Cray Children’s Centre 1 Davis Way, Sidcup DA14 5JR Wednesday - 1.30pm to 3.30pm

To find your local Alive ‘N’ Kicking sessions or for more information call 0208 432 8535 or email bexley@ank.uk.com

St Augustine’s Children’s Centre St Augustine’s Road, Belvedere DA17 5HP Wednesday - 9.30am to 11.30am

15.

Strong and resilient families

What’s on offer

Bexley’s Local Offer provides information about services available to children, young people with special educational needs and disabilities and their families. Visit www.bexleylocaloffer.uk

Free childcare

Three and four-year-olds

Two-year-olds

All three and four year olds are entitled to 15 hours free childcare a week with a nursery, pre-school or childminder.

If your household is on a low income or your child receives Disability Living Allowance, has an Education, Health and Care plan or is a looked after child (in foster care, subject to a Special Guardianship Order or similar) you could be eligible to receive 15 hours free childcare a week. Eligible children can take up their place at a nursey, preschool or with a childminder the term after they turn two. Visit www.bexley.gov.uk/childcare

In addition to this working parents could be eligible to receive an extra 15 hours a week. The extra hours can be used for any childcare including before and after school clubs, holiday clubs and weekend clubs. Eligible children can take up their place the term after they turn three, providing parents have applied the term before. Visit www.childcarechoices. gov.uk

Find local childcare providers at fid.bexley.gov.uk

A room in your house could fill room in your heart A spare room and dedication could be all it takes for you to begin your career as a Bexley Foster Carer. Foster Carers can be single, married, gay or straight. They can own or rent their home. They may have a young family, an empty nest or have no children. There are many different kinds of foster carers. Right now Bexley is looking for people to become foster carers for older children. We are also looking for ‘parent and child’ foster carers, this is a specialist type of fostering where a young parent, usually a mother and baby, comes to stay at a time when they need extra support. Bexley provides a comprehensive training package for you to develop the skills it takes to care for and support a child who cannot live with their own family, whether short or long term. Once you become a Foster Carer, training continues and a network of local carers are also on hand to provide support.

Are you private fostering? If you’re looking after a friend or a relative’s child under the age of 16 (under 18 if disabled) for 28 days or more, you should make sure that the local Children’s Services team are aware. You could be missing out on essential welfare checks for the children, as well as other support services. Call 020 8303 7777 and ask for Children’s Services.

Visit www.bexley.gov.uk/fostering or call 020 3045 4400 Follow @FosteringBexley on Twitter

16.

Living well

Open spaces, happy faces! When it comes to beautiful parks and outdoor family fun opportunities, the London Borough of Bexley is spoilt for choice! With over 100 parks and open spaces to choose from you might be at a loss as to where to start – so we’ve put together a small round-up to get you started. For starters, the fantastic Belvedere Beach, Woolwich Road DA17 5EE offers fully accessible play equipment for all abilities – including wooden percussion instruments, water play areas, palm tree basket swings, refreshment kiosk and so much more. Danson Park boasts the largest children’s playground in the borough, with play equipment suitable for children aged 3 to 14. Features include a zip wire, wet play area, large climbing rope frame and refreshment kiosk. The extensive grounds also house beautiful gardens, a lake and Danson House. You can find out more about these and all of the borough’s parks and open spaces at www.bexley.gov.uk/parks

Did you know? • Lesnes Abbey, Danson Park and Franks Park have free orienteering courses • Danson Park has a free Trim Trail • Lesnes Abbey Woods features the ruins of a 12th Century Abbey, fascinating wood carvings and so much more www.visitlesnes.co.uk • East Wickham Open Space and Town Park have skateboarding facilities • There are a number of free health walks in the parks www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/walkfinder/ bexley-healthy-walks • There is a bat colony in Chalk Wood • During the summer months you can ride a mini-ship on Danson Lake • There are frog life ponds at Foots Cray Meadows - conserving native amphibians and reptiles

18.

Living well

preview of upcoming events

Volunteer?

Sunday 15 July - Abbey Acoustics Lesnes Abbey, 12pm to 5pm Annual music festival

For many years the London Borough of Bexley’s parks and open spaces have received tremendous support from volunteers who help to create clean, well maintained parks and open spaces. If you are interested in joining this wonderful band of people please email parksandopenspaces@bexley.gov.uk

Friday 10 August - Baby Ballet Danson Park, 10.45am Taster sessions of ballet for toddlers and children

See the world brick by brick

amily Win a f ee S ticket! n on titio compe 24 page

See the most iconic landmarks and buildings from around the world built entirely from LEGO® bricks at Hall Place and Gardens. l

Build your own creations out of LEGO® or DUPLO® bricks

A fun family i-spy activity for you to complete

No need to book in advance! Tickets can be bought on the day from the main house reception and include free entry to the historic house.

Bootsie Price

"Had great fun at the Brick City event today. Both me and my son loved it and the models are amazing! Also nice to look round the house. Lovely friendly staff too."

Open every day 10am to 5pm until 2 September 2018

TiCKET PRiCES Adults - £10

Under 16 - £5

Find out more at

www.hallplace.org.uk/brick-city-exhibition-page

Under 5 - free 0 Family tickets (2 x adults, 3 x children) - £24.5

19.

Map of Borough

Event venues Crossness Engines Trust St Augustineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Children & Family Centre West Street Children & Family Centre Tha me s

Cycle P ath

Thamesmead

Sporting Club Thamesmead

016

Erith Yacht Club A2

A2041

The Link, Thamesmead

016

Lesnes Abbey Woods Bostall Heath

Belvedere

Danson Children & Family Centre

Danson Youth Centre

A 206

Erith

Crook Log Leisure Centre

Road

A2041

A220

Welling

Erith Leisure Centre

Slade Green

Erith

East Wickham Open Space

N'Heath

Bursted Wood

Barnehurst Bexleyheath

A207

Broad

A220

way

Waste & Recycling Centre

Crayford

Woodlands Farm Danson Park & Splash Park

A210

Blackfen

Crayfo

r d Ro

Danson Water Sports & Tennis

Sid

A2 23

Road A222 Station

Sidcup

Hall Place

No r

Ro a

Bexley

Mount Mascal Stables

Footscray

Foots Cray Meadows North Cray Community Centre Sidcup Leisure Centre Sidcup Place & Tennis Courts

20.

A20

Ruxley Manor Garden Centre

What’s on! Throughout summer

BEXLEYHEATH & BARNEHURST BOWLS CLUB

Russell Park, Long Lane DA7 5AS New or experienced bowlers welcome. Suitable for all ages 07444 475 417 bbbowlsclub@gmail.com

DANSON PARK BOWLS

Looking for new members. All ages welcome to come along and give it a go. www.dansonparkbowls.co.uk

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE All Bexley Council libraries www.bexley.gov.uk/libraries

BEXLEY PARKS TENNIS LEAGUE

Saturday 14 July – 1pm to 4.30 BEXLEY GOOD GRUB FESTIVAL Hurst Community Centre, Hurst Road, Hurst Place, Bexley DA5 3LH

One off free food and fitness festival. Free food, music, cookery demonstrations, cookery workshops and exercise tasters – fight Club, yoga/Pilates etc, freebies. Plus food stalls. Sign up through Eventbrite closer to date. Admission: Booking fee £5 per person (10 years + under free) refundable on arrival wasteteam@bexley.gov.uk

Throughout summer www.localtennisleagues.com/ bexleyparks

SPORTING CLUB THAMESMEAD

Summer holiday programme www.sportingclubthamesmead. co.uk/summer-holiday-programme

CROOK LOG, ERITH AND SIDCUP LEISURE CENTRES Summer holiday programme www.leisurecentre.com

until 2 September – 10am to 5pm BRICK CITY EXHIBITION

Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road DA5 1PQ Travel round the world in an exciting exhibition of architectural landmarks made from LEGO ® bricks. Entry to this miniature world is included in the admission ticket to the historic house. See our website for more details www.hallplace.org.uk Tickets will be available for sale on the day of your visit from the main house reception

What’s On

Sunday 15 July ABBEY ACOUSTICS II

Lesnes Abbey, Abbey Road, Abbey Wood DA17 5DH Headlining acts - Radio 2 Folk Award winners Josienne and Ben are headlining this year’s acoustic festival. Supporting acts include Jess Morgan and multiple Ivor Novello Award winner and Grammy nominee Iain Archer. £3 suggested donation at the gate. 07792 177803 Book at www.visitlesnes.co.uk

Tuesday 17 July – 3pm to 4pm THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF BEES IN YOUR GARDEN Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Maidstone Road, Sidcup DA14 5BQ

Saturday 14 July THAMESMEAD’S 50TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

Come and celebrate everything about Thamesmead in this fun packed festival day. We’ll be showcasing local talent, bringing back some old Thamesmead traditions and reminiscing on the town over the ages. Led by a resident steering group, this birthday party promises a sense of community. Delivered by Emergency Exit Arts with support from Peabody. Lisa.Drew@peabody.org.uk Book at www.thamesmeadnow.org.uk

Saturday 14 July - 11am to 3pm BUSY BEES FAMILY FUN DAY Graham Road, Bexleyheath DA6 7EG

There will be a variety of games for all ages, including a bouncy castle, raffle, refreshments, tombola and much more. All money that we raise goes to our chosen charity, Child Bereavement. So please come join in all the fun and help us support this worthy cause. 0208 303 1676 bexleyheath.manager@busybees.com

Join David Rea, Vice Chair of Ruxley Beekeepers, as he shares his extensive knowledge of bees, beekeeping and honey making. This free talk includes a presentation and a hands-on honey tasting. 020 8300 0084 www.ruxley-manor.co.uk

Friday 20 July to Friday 31 August - 11am to 7pm CHILDREN’S RIDES AT DANSON PARK Danson Road, Welling, DA6 9HL

Fun fair rides set up near Danson stables, running throughout the summer (weather permitting)

Saturday 21 July to Sunday 5 August LARK IN THE PARK Sidcup Place

Everyone is welcome to this fully inclusive event. 020 8309 6056 Book at www.larksidcup.com

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What’s On

Sunday 22 July – 2pm (gate opens at 1pm)

Mon 30 July to Friday 3 August

BELVEDERE CONCERT BAND

ROAR MUSIC ACADEMY

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ Relax and enjoy the live music on the lawn. Bring a rug or low backed chair to sit on. Picnics welcome. Event weather dependent please check on the day. Admission: £8 adults, under 16s free (must be accompanied) pay on the day. 01322 526574

Saturday 29 July – 11am to 3pm Sunday 19 August – 11am to 3pm SOLAR OBSERVING

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ Meet the Crayford Manor House Astronomical Society Dartford for this free drop in activity to learn how to safely observe the sun through special equipment. Admission: Free 01322 526574

Monday 30 July to Friday 3 August – 10am, 11.30 & 2pm (one hour session) ANIMAL MAGIC

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ Bearded dragons, cute bunnies, mischievous meerkats, hungry chicks, pygmy hedgehogs and many more. Get up close and personal with all the amazing animals from Animal Magic. Advance booking required, Admission: £6 children, £4 adults. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 01322 621238 to book tickets

Monday 30 July to Friday 3 August – 1pm to 4.30pm SPARK IN THE PARK

Danson Park, Danson Road, Welling DA6 9HL A week of activities for children, teens and families. Low cost refreshments are available. Phone: 020 8303 0551 www.stjohnswelling.org.uk

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10 The Parade, Crayford Way, Crayford, DA1 4JA We have great value schools in Guitar, Piano, Drums, Vocals or even Band taught by our incredible tutors. Each session is designed to teach new musical skills on your chosen instrument. It’s a great way for kids to try something new this summer. There is no experience necessary. Our Summer Schools cost just £60 for the whole week. 01322836606 info@roarmusicacademy.com www.roarmusicacademy.com

Wednesday 1 August to 31 August – 10am to 4.30pm SUMMER GARDEN TRAIL

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ Complete the picture of Hall Place by copying the missing pieces hidden in the garden. Includes small free prize at the end. Pick up your trail sheet from the historic house. Admission: £2.50 per trail (bring a pencil or buy one for 50p on the day) 01322 526574

Monday 6, Tuesday 7, Monday 13 - Wednesday 15, Monday 20 - Thursday 23 August -10am and 2pm (2 hour sessions) FAIRY SCHOOL

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ Calling all trainee fairies! An enchanting school where pupils enjoy storytelling, fairy cake decorating, dancing, crafts and other magical skills. Can you graduate this year as a woodland fairy? Perfect for three to nine year olds, boys and girls. Advance booking required, Admission: £10 per child, adults free. Call 01322 621238 to book tickets

Wednesday 8 August - Gates open 7pm, film starts approx. 8.30pm OPEN AIR CINEMA - LABYRINTH

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ (1986, cert U, 100 mins) We have the 80’s cult classic “Labyrinth”, starring the late, great David Bowie as the goblin king and directed by Jim Henson. A fun film that all ages will enjoy. There will be a full bar and hot food available on site. Book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out Admission: £15 adults, £10 children (plus booking fee) 0844 858 6767 Book at www.lunacinema.com

Thursday 9 August Gates open 7pm, film starts approx. 8.30pm OPEN AIR CINEMA MOULIN ROUGE

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ (2001, cert 12, 127 mins) Get ready to be transported to 1880’s Paris as we show Baz Luhrmann’s musical masterpiece, “Moulin Rouge! Immerse yourself in the spectacular love story between Christian and Satine. There will be a full bar and hot food available on site. Book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out Admission: £15 adults, £10 children (plus booking fee) 0844 858 6767 Book at www.lunacinema.com

Thursday 9 August 5.30pm to 9.30pm CHARITY TOY AND TRAIN FAIR

Falconwood Community Centre, 32 Falconwood Parade, The Green, Welling DA16 2PG

What’s On

Friday 10 August 4.15pm to 5pm THAMESMEAD TEENAGE READING Thamesmead Library, Binsey Walk SE2 9TR

This is a reading group for young people where you decide what novels to read. Discuss new authors, share book reviews, ideas for the group or even bring a favourite book to share with others who love reading, chatting, and having fun. Refreshments available Admission: Free 020 8303 7777 libraries@bexley.gov.uk

11 August - 12noon to 4pm THAMESMEAD COMMUNITY MARKET

Information Hub, Yarnton Way DA18 4BW Crafts and food stalls including bath products, gifts, framed products, cakes, pastries, vegan food and Caribbean food.

Thursday 16 August – 8pm Tuesday 18 September – 7pm BAT WALK

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ Join us on a dusk walk through the gardens to hear and see these nocturnal creatures. Bat detector supplied! Followed by tea and cake. Dress for the weather and for walking over uneven ground. Admission: £10 adults, £8 for 8-16 year olds (advance booking required) Call 01322 621238 to book tickets

Sunday 26 August Performance starts 2pm (gates open 1pm) OPEN AIR THEATRE - THE RELUCTANT DRAGON

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ Everyone knows St George has to do battle with the dragon, but what happens when the dragon simply won’t fight St George? In this delightful new adaptation by Michael Whitmore, Quantum Theatre presents Kenneth Grahame’s The Reluctant Dragon, an enchanting tale for all the family. Bring a rug or low backed chair to sit on. Picnics are welcome, but hot drinks and refreshments will be for sale on the day.

Admission: 12 adults, £10 concessions, £8 under 16s, 2 yrs and under free Call 01322 621238 to book tickets

Monday 27 August ANNUAL SUMMER BANK HOLIDAY CHARITY SHOW & FAMILY FUN DAY Mount Mascal Stables Vicarage Road, Bexley DA5 2AW 020 8300 3947 www.mountmascalstables.co.uk

Thursday 30 August 7pm to 11pm OPEN AIR THEATRE - AS YOU LIKE IT

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players…” Welcome to the Forest of Arden, a world of clowns, lovers, runaways and rebels. The critically acclaimed Pantaloons present their innovative and hilarious open-air version of Shakespeare’s timeless comedy, with folky, foot-stomping live music and their own inimitable brand of buffoonery. Bring a rug or low backed chair to sit on. Picnics are welcome, but hot drinks and refreshments will be for sale on the night. Time: Performance starts at 7pm, gates open 6pm Admission: £12 adults, £10 concessions £8 under 16s 01322 621238

Saturday 1 September 10.30am TO 6pm THE THIRD CROSSNESS STEAMPUNK CONVIVIAL Bazalgette Way, London SE2 9AQ

Steampunk shenanigans, family and children’s craft activity, stalls, refreshments and more.

16 September – 12pm FAMILY SOCIAL RIDE

Sporting Club Thamesmead, Bayliss Avenue, Thamesmead SE28 8NJ Social rides for all the family. Please bring your bikes and helmet. Bikes available for hire, subject to availability. Admission: Free 020 3828 4920 www.sportingclubthamesmead.co.uk

Saturday 22 - Sunday 23 September LONDON OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ Open House Guided tours – 10am and 11am Guided tours of Hall Place at 10am and 11am. Advance booking required. Call 01322 621238 to book a place

SPORTING CLUB THAMESMEAD

Set in a tranquil green area of Thamesmead, designed to reinforce the nature around it. 3G pitches, outdoor multi-use games area and cafe-bar with panoramic views over parkland and pitches - home teams include Charlton Athletic Women’s FC Open: 8am - 6:30pm. last entry: 6pm Saturday and Sunday

THAMESMEAD’S LANDSCAPES AND HIDDEN SPACES

A two hour walk through Thamesmead’s landscapes, including some less well-known hidden spaces. Led by Peabody’s Director of Landscape, Dr Phil Askew. 2pm on both the Saturday and the Sunday. Meet at south-east corner of Southmere Lake (adjacent to SE2 9UR) on square Danson House, Crossness Pumping Station and Red House will also be taking part in the Open House weekend. Check websites for details.

Adults £15, children 6-17 years old £8 Book at www.crossness.org.uk 020 8311 3711

8 September - 12noon to 4pm THAMESMEAD COMMUNITY MARKET

Information Hub, Yarnton Way DA18 4BW Crafts and food stalls including bath products, gifts, framed products, cakes, pastries, vegan food and Caribbean food.

23.

See page 19 t o find out more about Brick C ity

Competition Time Spot the difference! Win a Family ticket to Brick City For your chance to win a family ticket to the fantastic Brick City exhibition at Hall Place and Gardens just tell us how many differences can you spot between pictures 1 and 2? Send your name, answer and contact details to communications@bexley.gov.uk or to Communications team, London Borough of Bexley, Civic Offices, 2 Watling Street, Bexleyheath DA6 7AT

The ticket is valid until 2 September 2018 and entitles the holder to free entry for up to two adults and three children to the Brick City exhibition, as well as the Historic House. Entries must be in by Tuesday 31 July!

2 T&Cs: one entry per person. Your first given answer is your entry; answers cannot be changed, corrected or edited. In the event of there being no clear winner, names will be drawn at random. No cash equivalent given for prizes. Ticket cannot be changed for an alternative exhibition. Competition closes at 5pm on Tuesday 31 July. Entries received after the competition has closed will not be counted.

24.

Staying Safe

Cycle smart

Here are our top tips to stay safe when cycling on the roads:

Cycling is booming with more of us switching to the green two-wheeled transport option. There are more cycle paths and cycle-friendly roads appearing in Bexley, including the refurbished Ridgeway path in Thamesmead and new cycle lanes along Albion Road in Bexleyheath.

• Keep off pavements, unless it is a shared cycle path

If you or your children (aged 10+) want to start cycling on the road, look for information on page 9.

• Wear light or fluorescent colours to help people see you

• Wear a securely fastened, correctly sized helmet • Wear appropriate clothing which won’t catch the bike’s chain or cover lights

• Check your brakes work • Fit front and rear lights for low light conditions, and a red rear reflector • Have a bell so you can warn others you are there • Ride in single file in heavy traffic • Keep within a cycle lane as much as you can

Don’t be a litter bug

We all know that litter is an eyesore, but did you know it also can: Spread germs - bacteria loves litter, it also attracts pests such as rats that carry germs, which can then be carried into our homes and contaminate water sources. Cause flooding - dumped plastics can end up blocking drainage pipes and sewer channels, leading to flooding. Harm wildlife - litter can poison, harm and trap both wild and domesticated animals, birds and fish. Start and spread fires - plastic and paper waste is flammable and fires can easily spread Remember to always throw your rubbish in a bin - and if the only bin is full please take it home! Grown-ups - Did you know it is a criminal offence to drop litter in a public place and can result in a £150 fine?

26.

Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a form of sexual abuse that involves the manipulation of young people under the age of 18 into sexual activity, sometimes in exchange for things such as money, gifts, accommodation, affection or status. One sign on its own does not mean someone has been exploited, but several signs together should give you cause for concern.

Look out for young people: • • • • • • •

Becoming especially secretive Ending usual friendships Associating with older men or women Going missing from home Becoming defensive about location and activities Receiving odd calls and messages Possessing new, expensive items

Visit www.stop-cse.org for more information. Anyone with concerns about a Bexley child or young person should call 020 303 7777 and ask for Children’s Services. In an emergency always call 999.

Young people working for Bexley Matthew Crane Deputy Member of Youth Parliament, aged 15

Arnav Upadaya Member of Youth Parliament, aged 14

About UK Youth Parliament

The UK Youth Parliament provides opportunities for 11 to 18 year olds to use their elected voice to bring about social change through meaningful representation and campaigning. As elected Members of Youth Parliament, Arnav and Matthew represent Bexley with national campaigns, conferences and the annual youth debate at the House of Commons at the end of the year. They are focussed on improving mental health awareness and support for careers, guidance and the ‘Curriculum for Life’ PSHE campaign.

About Bexley Youth Council

BYC is a voluntary organisation that helps give the young people of Bexley a voice. Passionate about tackling racism and discrimination, Emmanuella hopes to raise awareness, whilst celebrating race and culture. Focused on promoting BYC, Jay aims to increase awareness through events and networking with other youth councils and groups. To find out more about BYC email chris.lee@bexley.gov.uk or call 07792 661 364

Jay Lee BYC Deputy Chairman, aged 17

Emmanuella Isiwele BYC Chairman, aged 17

New Council – new Cabinet The London Borough of Bexley is divided into 17 wards and has 45 councillors. To find out which ward you live in, or for up-to-date details of how to contact your local Councillors or members of the Council’s Cabinet, please visit www.bexley.gov.uk/councillors or call 020 8303 7777 Cllr Brad Smith Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services

Cllr Alex Sawyer Cabinet Member for Communities

Cllr Philip Read Cabinet Member for Children’s Services

Cllr Peter Craske Cabinet Member for Places Cllr Louie French Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Growth

Cllr Teresa O’Neill OBE Leader of the Council Cllr David Leaf Cabinet Member for Resources

29.

NEW Lesnes Abbey Wood app!

Downloading...

Experience Lesnes Abbey like never before with your own personal tour guide! Bexley’s first ever park app will provide you with fun facts, informative transcripts and a GPS function which transforms your smartphone into a handy map. Download the app and discover new adventures at Lesnes Abbey.

How do I?

Contact the Council

Contact the police for a non-emergency – 101 Report a gas leak – 0800 111 999 Get health advice and reassurance – 111 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Report a leak or burst pipe – 0800 714 614 (24 hour leak line)

/LBBexley

Contact centre - 020 8303 7777 Out of hours service - 020 8303 7171 Automated payments - 020 3045 5200 Adoption and fostering - 0800 783 7699 Births, deaths and marriages - 0300 041 525 Cemeteries Office - 020 3045 4100 Ceremonies - 03000 411 103 Council Tax - 0345 302 2317 Danson House - 0300 041 1103 Disabled Children’s Service - 020 3045 3600 Emergency Link Line (Telecare) - 020 3045 5400 Hall Place - 01322 526 574 Housing advice / homelessness - 020 3045 3400 Housing allocations and sheltered housing 020 3045 3100 Housing benefit - 0345 302 2317 Licensing - 020 3045 3900 Local Land Search - 020 3045 4000 Parking - 020 3045 3000 Residential care (Adult Social Care) 020 3045 4900 Temporary accommodation - 020 3045 4800 The Learning & Enterprise College Bexley 020 3045 5176

@lb_bexley @LBofBexley /LBofBexley

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