The Chiswick Magazine November 2020 by The Chiswick Magazine

CHISWICK

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T H E

M A G A Z I N E

November 2020 | Complimentary

Aubrey Mark Charles On his love for Chiswick and local businesses

The Cricketers - Kew The pub is here for a new innings

Surviving and thriving this winter Four local therapists give wellbeing tips

The Lyric Theatre New season for 2021

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17/03/2020 08:27

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Growing their imaginations

Let your child’s imagination take them on a journey of discovery at The Pump House, a new, modern day nursery in the heart of Brentford. • Stimulating indoor and outdoor spaces to spark their curiosity through play • Riverside location – ideal for nature walks • A secure, homely environment for children aged 12 weeks to 5 years • New extended opening hours from 7.30am to 6.30pm

For ne that jo w families i Autum n througho ut n, t regist here are no ration fees. Just q uote Aut for yo umn20 ur dis count .

Personal tours now available. To book a tour or to enquire about a place, contact manager@phdaynursery.co.uk or call 020 8003 0123.

www.phdaynursery.co.uk

pumphousedaynursery The Old Pumping Station, Pump Alley, Brentford TW8 0AP 3

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CHISWICK T H E

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is brought to you by

EDITOR

Lucy Bacon lucy@chiswickmagazine.co.uk

FEATURES EDITOR

Lucy Bacon lucy@chiswickmagazine.co.uk

ADVERTISING

Dear Reader,

Simon Hossack simon@chiswickmagazine.co.uk

Welcome to the November edition of The Chiswick Magazine.

PUBLISHER

Over the last few months, we have all had to spend more time at home and have developed a deeper appreciation for our home: Chiswick.

DESIGN

In this edition of the Magazine we focus on all the amazing things Chiswick has to offer from restaurants to unique museums and how the Chiswick community is pulling together to support each other.

Paul Williams paul@chiswickmagazine.co.uk

Raja Lockey

TRAVEL

Paul Williams paul@chiswickmagazine.co.uk

We speak to the Lyric Theatre about their latest fundraising efforts and learn why local Instagram photographer Aubrey Mark Charles is determined to help Chiswick’s local businesses. It is a difficult time for many of us and we have spoken to local psychotherapists to get tips for you on how to survive and thrive this winter. I hope you enjoy the Magazine! Lucy

Vencor Ltd Unit 22, 295 Chiswick High Road London, UK W4 4TT. Telephone: 020 3623 0567 © Vencor Ltd 2019. THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE is published by Vencor Ltd. Registerd Unit 22, 295 Chiswick High Road London W4 4TT. chiswickmagazine. co.uk. All rights reserved. ® THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE is registered as a trade mark, trade mark number UK00003257230.

The views of the writers and interviewees in THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE are not necessarily the views of the publisher. All images have been used with permission of the copyright owner. Any imagery supplied by a third party eg advertising, marketing or pr agency, will be published on the understanding the images have been supplied for publication with the permisson of the copyright owner. Any imagery that incurs copyright infringement, the supplier of that image (s) will be held responsible and liable for any royalties or licence fees. The contributor acknowledges that material submitted may be published in any publication or on any website owned by Vencor Ltd. By submitting material to THE CHISWICK MAGAZINE, Vencor Ltd is automatically granted the royalty-free, perpetual, irrevocable right and licence to use, reproduce, edit, distribute and display such material, in whole or part and/or to incorporate it in other works in any form, media, or technology now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in such content.

cover photo: Aubrey Mark Charles

chiswickmagazine.co.uk @chiswickmag thechiswickmagazine

Contents Public Notice

Notice of variation for premises license for Barratt Business Hospitality Ltd

We talk to local artist Brenda Sakoui about how the local landscape has inspired her.

Lyric Theatre

The theatre announces a new season of plays.

The Hogarth 500

Meet the Artist

Urban Rose

We talk Chiswickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Champagne & Beauty bar about their experience of re-opening. 10

Psychologically Surviving the Winter

The Hogarth launches fundraiser challenge for mental health charity.

We speak to four local therapists about how to keep your spirits up this winter.

How can you change your career?

Bone Daddies

We speak to a Local Executive coach to get tips about how you can change your career.

The beloved Ramen chain has come to West London.

Meet Aubrey Mark Charles

The Cricketers

Local Instagram sensation talks about his love of Chiswick and independent businesses. Meet the Author

The pub is under new management and ready for its next innings. 24

We talk to local poet Susan Lee Kerr about her new Haiku collection. Emery Walkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House The House Museum has gone virtual.

Local News

What has been happening in Chiswick? A selection of local news from our sister publication The Chiswick Herald. 26

Travel The best places to go Stargazing.

PUBLIC NOTICES

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LICENSING ACT 2003 NOTICE OF VARIATION FOR PREMISES LICENCE NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT Barratt Business Hospitality Ltd ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------HAS APPLIED TO THE LONDON BOROUGH OF HOUNSLOW FOR (b) Provide a brief summary of the application setting out the proposed licensable activities, days and times: Supply of Alcohol for Consumption on and off the premises, regulated entertainment and playing of recorded music. Mon to Thursday 10-00 to 23-00 Friday and Saturday 10-00 to 00-00 Sunday 10-00 to 23-00

FOR THE PREMISES 12 Sutton Lane North Chiswick --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------THE FOLLOWING OPENING HOURS ARE APPLIED FOR: Mon to Thursday 10-00 to 23-30 Friday and Saturday 10-00 to 00-30 Sunday 10-00 to 23-30

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ANYONE WISHING TO MAKE REPRESENTATIONS TO THIS APPLICATION MUST GIVE NOTICE IN WRITING BY: October 9th (In writing includes e-mail to licensing@hounslow.gov.uk, 0r letter) TO: Community Enforcement and Regulatory Services - Licensing London Borough of Hounslow, Hounslow House, 7 Bath Road, Hounslow, TW3 3EB To view the application please go to: www.hounslow.gov.uk/licensing Within 28 days of the date of this notice specifying the grounds of your representation. Should any representations be received, members of the Licensing Committee will determine the application. Any person who has made representation will be invited to attend the hearing, although all valid representations will be read and taken into consideration in the determination process. The Council are required to copy all representations received in full (name & addresses) to the applicant. This notice must be completed and displayed for a period of no less than 28 consecutive days starting on the day following the date of submission of the application to the Licensing Authority. It must be exhibited prominently at or on the premises where any person outside of the premises can easily read it. It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application; the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the offence is Â£5000.

DATE OF APPLICATION 9th September 2020

ChiswickHerald

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More than just a care home

“

The Chiswick Nursing Centre is friendly and welcoming, providing the kindest possible care in a wonderfully comfortable setting. Our residents are given peace of mind, support and clinical care by our qualified, friendly staff. Families and loved ones have the comfort of knowing that our compassionate approach helps our residents feel safe and looked after in even the most difficult of situations. Whether it’s respite, rehabilitation, convalescence, longer term nursing, dementia care or physiotherapy, rest assured that you or your loved ones are in safe hands.

My sister (86) was admitted to this home during the virus crisis. She was very frail. The staff have been so caring and compassionate. When we were worried about her the manager spoke with my brother and I and arranged a video visit! My sister told us the carers were so kind and that the food was wonderful. The staff meet her every need and she feels that nothing is too much trouble for them. There are doctors, nurses and physiotherapists who help her daily. This home was a lucky find in a time of need. Sister of resident carehome.co.uk

”

Whether it’s respite, rehabilitation, convalescence, longer term nursing or dementia care, rest assured that you or your loved ones are in safe hands.

For more advice on our care call 020 8222 7800 • Ravenscourt Gardens, Chiswick, London W6 0AE www.chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk

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17/09/2020 13:43

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Lyric Hammersmith Theatre announces reopening by Rachel Magee

Lyric Theatre announces a new season of plays.

he Lyric Hammersmith Theatre has announced a season of work including community projects in Autumn 2020 and two one person shows to be presented to a socially distanced audience early next year.

The theatre has been closed since March due to the Coronavirus pandemic and is taking measures to ensure everyone’s safety when audiences return. Executive Director, Sian Alexander said: “Ensuring the safety of our artists, audience and team is our number one priority and our new socially distanced seating and industry standard ‘See It Safely’ cleaning and Covid-safety measures mean that everyone can experience the joy of live theatre again at the Lyric.”

Sophie Melville will reprise her role in the critically acclaimed Iphigenia in Splott written by Gary Owen, which will be directed by Rachel O’Riordan and will open in the Main House in January 2021. Paterson Joseph will make his Lyric debut starring in and codirecting his own play, Sancho: An Act of Remembrance, which tells the story of Charles Ignatius Sancho, who was born on a slave ship in 1729 and became a composer, actor, antislavery campaigner and the first black person of African origin to vote in Britain. It will run from February 25-March 20, 2021.

The theatre is able to reopen due to its Crowdfunder campaign which is nearing its target of £50,000. The theatre has also begun work on its first community play called Heart of Hammersmith which will celebrate and tell the stories of the people of Hammersmith.

The Lyric’s Artistic Director, Rachel O’Riordan said: “I am delighted that we can announce shows for our audiences, returning to do what we do best, producing great work with great artists, in our beautiful theatre.”

Following the success of the theatre’s project with primary school keyworkers’ children this summer, it will lead two new digital projects with schools across Hammersmith & Fulham this Autumn.

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One project will work with primary schools and focus on the impact of the local closure of Hammersmith Bridge and the global climate emergency. The primary schools involved are Wormholt Park Primary School, Normand Croft Community School, Flora Gardens Primary School and Avonmore Primary School.

voice into discussions in which their voice would not normally be heard.

The other project will work with secondary schools to encourage students to engage with discussions of race and identity through their own hidden histories. The schools involved in this project are Fulham College, Hammersmith Academy and Fulham Boys School. Rob Lehmann, who is the Director of Young at the Lyric and the coordinator of these school projects, expressed the importance of the arts as a vehicle for young people to articulate and digest the world around them.

He added that COVID-19 restrictions have meant that the arts have been somewhat abandoned in the school curriculum and hoped that these projects will help to bolster student engagement in the arts and theatre.

He said: “Young people often have their voice taken away from them. The arts and creative writing allow young people to bring their

If you would like to support the Lyric Hammersmith please visit their Crowdfunder campaign.

“2021 is a completely different world we're going into from 2020 and young people will feel the impact of this for generations to come. Actively engaging young people through theatre and playwriting is really vital.”

Tickets for the plays are now on sale on the Lyric Hammersmith website and cost between £15 and £23. People who live or work in Hammersmith & Fulham can get two free tickets to the first night of all Main House Lyric productions with the first free night scheme.

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The Hogarth 500 by Rachel Magee

Chiswick gym launches fundraiser challenge for mental health charity

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LOCAL LIFE

Chiswick gym has launched a fundraising challenge where teams will run, walk, row or cycle 500 miles to raise money for a mental health charity. The Hogarth 500 challenge will see groups of participants in teams of 6, or less, competing to be the first team to log 500 miles of either indoor or outdoor sporting activity in November. Anyone can sign up to the challenge at the Hogarth Club in Chiswick. The fundraiser seeks to raise awareness and donations for the charity Sport in Mind. Sport in Mind provides sport sessions to those suffering with mental health issues in order to aid their recovery, combat social isolation and empower people to move their lives forward. The charity has supported the mental health recovery of 12,500 people since its creation in 2009. Ambi Devetta, Communications Manager at the Hogarth gym, said: “This year has more than ever highlighted the link between physical and mental health. Unfortunately, most mass participation events have been cancelled, so we thought we need to create something to fill the competitive void.” Each member of the winning team will receive a meal and a bottle of wine at the Airedale bar and café in Chiswick. The person who logs the most miles in November will win a massage at the gym’s spa and the person who raises the most money will get a free month’s membership at Hogarth gym. Those who wish to participate can enter their own team or join one of the Hogarth Club captains’ teams as an individual. Completed miles will be logged by participants sending screenshots of their sporting activity to their team captains. There will be a live leader board put up in the Club’s gym to encourage the competitive spirit. Before entering, participants must give a contribution towards Sport in Mind charity via the Hogarth 500 JustGiving page. Sport in Mind was set up by Neil Harris who started the charity after successfully using physical activity plans to help his childhood friend, Jamie, who was struggling with anxiety and depression. Although Jamie was not keen on physical fitness, Neil devised a plan that would gradually increase physical activity so that the activity did not seem too daunting to his friend. Within 9 months of doing Neil’s physical activity plan, Jamie’s symptoms had significantly reduced, he was showing improved levels of selfesteem and had returned to full-time employment. To enter the Hogarth 500, go to the Hogarth gym Reception or email Health & Fitness Manager Vojin at vojin@thehogarth.co.uk

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How can you change your career? by Lucy Bacon

Has Covid-19 got you re-thinking your career? Here are some practical tips from a local Executive Coach to get you started.

ith nearly a quarter of the British workforce furloughed during lockdown it gave lots of people some time to slow down and reflect on their careers and goals.

Melda Ekmen

For some people that has led to the realisation that they would like to change their careers. Whether that is because you have enjoyed having more time at home, or because it looks like your sector will take a long time to recover from the after effects of Covid-19, you will need to make a plan for how to start your next chapter. It can be daunting to work out if you should make a career change and if you decide that you are going to make one, how do you get started? Melda Ekmen, a local Executive Coach who helps people get what they want out of their career says, “when it comes to changing careers it can be overwhelming. The main reason for this is that we generally feel torn between financial security and our dreams.” “But if the idea of change excites you, you have dreams, you want more from your career and you like challenges, then you could be onto something. The key to career change is interest. Fear and obstacles can be overcome with a good strategy.” To make a career change more manageable, Melda has shared some tips to start the process. Build self-awareness To begin the process of a career change, reflect on what your skills are and what you have enjoyed doing in your past jobs. 12

Melda advises that you should “Know what skills and qualities you can offer to an organisation and be clear about what you love and hate at work.” Self-awareness will allow you to make better choices so that as you make your next steps you will be clear on what you want and what you can offer a new employer. Research The next step is to research the field that you are interested in and look at what qualifications, skills and experiences you will need. Linkedin is a great information hub and starting point. You can also educate yourself through reliable publications like Harvard Business Review and Forbes. Websites of the leading organisations that operate in the field you are looking into will also be helpful. Melda also recommends that alongside your online research to “speak to people who work in the industry to find out about the benefits and challenges of working in that field.” Plan Getting the right skills and the work experience for career change is key – this is where you can build credibility. To do this, it is important that you draw up a plan. Melda says, “make sure your plan has measurable targets and realistic deadlines i.e. I will speak to 10 potential employers in the next work week or I will make 20 job applications in the next 5 days.”

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“When changing career, regardless of your level of work experience, you need to put in the hours to become relevant. To do that, look for volunteering opportunities. With the increase in online volunteering communities, the opportunity to get involved in relevant events and networks is increasing. There are also many low cost, free or funded courses, online or offline which you can use to build your skills.” “You will also need a well-written CV and I would suggest that you invest time into it to reflect clearly what you can offer an organisation.” Get in touch with your network This is a key step especially during a time when the job market is tougher than usual, as it is now. Try to speak to people who know the job market you want to enter or find someone who can give you advice about how to get a job in a tough market. “When you are taking a different career path, speaking to recruiters can be a bit challenging,” says Melda, “but that is why self-awareness and why you are choosing this new path is key, even if it is driven by circumstances in your life.” She says, “Your experiences led you to make a career change, so clarify your motivation and build the story that comes from reality and is genuine.” “You are not lost; you are just changing direction in your career. You are not disregarding your past experience; you are going into a different direction. And remember that wanting to do something completely

different is a valid reason to change jobs. You are in the driving seat of your career and you can take the road you want.” Take action The final step in preparing for a career change is to take action. This can often be the hardest step. From her experience Melda says, “This is when fear and self-limiting beliefs stop you from progressing. They try to keep you in your comfort zone. The solution: Just take action.” “Be resilient; keep trying and bouncing back after set-backs. Rejection is a part of the game. Keep your focus on the results, and do not let rejection distract you from your objective.” “When things get tough, do not push away your feelings. When your feelings get heavy, ask yourself: ‘What do I need right now?’ We generally need simple things like kindness, fresh air, a shower, a nap, chat with a loved one. Finally, keep your inner dialogue positive.”

Melda provides a free professional space to help people rethink their career at her Career Reboot Events. You can also join the Career Reboot groups on Linkedin and Facebook. She also runs low cost workshops on CV writing, job interviews, networking and managing conflict at work. There is always the option to do oneto-one coaching sessions which is 8 sessions that run over 4 months. You can stay in touch with Melda by joining the groups, on Instagram or by signing up to bi-monthly newsletter at www.miracc.london. 13

LOCAL LIFE

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Chiswick & Bedford Park Preparatory School Priory House Priory Ave Chiswick W4 1TX Boys 3 – 7 years Girls 3 – 11 years

(dedicated entry for girls at 7+ Year 3 to prepare for 11+ exams) The Headmistress, Mrs Henrietta Adams will be delighted to hear from you and to discuss our vibrant school. Our return to school in September was much anticipated by both pupils and parents. We have been very vigilant and careful to follow all the recommendation and requirements and are proud to say that all of our pupils have worked together to bring the happy buzz back to our school day. We have had high attendance rates. Congratulations to all those creative pupils who contributed poems to the Young People Poetry Competition 2020. CBPPS winners were Suri, Mair, Alice, Elizabeth, Riam, Willow-Rose, Aila, Imogen, Ava and Emmie.

The last tiger

(1 st prize went to Diana – age 8)

The Horse (By Eva )

Touch (By Elsie)

I roar The fears of falling off and your horse How silently they tumble down To the moon getting hurt, And come to rest upon the ground. And to the stars, The joy of landing safely, To lay a carpet, rich and rare, I roar The pressure of winning the Beneath the trees without a care. To the trees competition, Content to sleep, their Swaying In the breeze, The excitement of being in the air, work well done. I will roar The feel of the strength of your horse, Colours gleaming in the sun. With all the tiger ghosts The bitter taste of air rushing into your At other times, they wildly fly And to them alone mouth, Until they reach the sky. I will roar The sound of the horse’s hooves thump- Twisting, turning through the air When I leave ing the ground, Till all the trees stand Will you roar? The sight of the judge coming to you stark and bare. with the trophy, Exhausted, drop to earth below The smell of flowers around your horses To wait, like children, for the snow. neck.

www.cbppschool.co.uk info@cbppschool.co.uk Tel: 0208 994 1804

Inspiring young minds Limited places available in most age groups 14

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party with us! From unforgettable birthday bashes for little ones, to sophisticated soirees for grown-ups, we take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy every moment.

Book a tour or find out more at maggieandrose.com

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Aubrey Mark Charles: Local photographer and Instagram creator. by Lucy Bacon

Aubrey explains his passion for Chiswick and Local Businesses

f you scroll through Instagram early in the morning you will often come across a beautiful picture of Chiswick which Aubrey has taken at the crack of dawn. When I ask him why he is such an early riser he laughs and says, “well, I’m a morning person who doesn’t need a lot of sleep, and besides, it’s such a magical time of the day and the lighting is perfect for pictures.”

Aubrey explains, “The Instagram account brought me closer to the community and allowed me to meet hundreds of new people and business owners, and it’s helped me understand what it is like to own a small business. Speaking with these local businesses I’ve seen how much time, effort and hard work they all have to put in and what they’re up against.”

When Aubrey moved to Chiswick he started taking pictures of his early morning walks and posting them on Facebook but smiling he says, “my friends were all like “enough already with Chiswick!” and it was actually my friend Carolyne who suggested I start an Instagram account.” Three years later and the account has almost 10,000 followers.

Aubrey has also realised how few local businesses use social media correctly to promote their stores and he sees it as “a real opportunity to help.” In September he organised a night for independent businesses at the Hogarth Club where he gathered a group of local business owners to discuss their products and then had them all crosspromote each other on their social medial channels. He hopes to be able to host more of these events in the future once the restrictions are lifted.

Aubrey wasn’t interested in photography before moving to Chiswick, but it’s through wanting to ‘show Chiswick off’ that he discovered that he had a talent for it. “It sounds silly,” he says, “but I kind of see everything in pictures. I am very aware of lines and shadows, how I want to capture them and what will make a good photograph. I see the beauty in everything, and that’s so important.” He pauses for a moment, “Actually my Dad says that when I was little, I used to say that I wanted to be a photographer, but I don’t remember that.” When asked how he balances his Instagram account with his demanding full-time job he explains, “when you wake up at 4am, you have a lot more hours in the day to be creative with, however it has got to the point where I do need to take a day or two off from social media every week.” Running the account has opened a whole different world for Aubrey and it’s through Instagram that he developed his passion for Local Businesses.

He says, “I feel that everyone needs to do more to help our local business through this difficult time. This Christmas, we’re not going to be able to go away or have big family gatherings so let’s take all that money that we will be saving, shop local and support our high street shops.” Aubrey is now going to take his passion for local business one step further and write a weekly column called Indie Chiswick for the Chiswick Magazine about local businesses you can discover at your doorstep. To finish off the interview I ask Aubrey what his future plans are for his Instagram account and he smiles and shrugs, “I am going to trust in the spontaneity, it has brought me this far.” If you would like to follow Aubrey, his Instagram handle is: aubreymarkcharles 16

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photo: Aubrey Mark Charles

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photo: Aubrey Mark Charles

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photo: Aubrey Mark Charles

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photo: Aubrey Mark Charles

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photo: Aubrey Mark Charles

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photo: Aubrey Mark Charles

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photo: Aubrey Mark Charles

LOCAL LIFE

ARTS & CULTURE

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Meet the author: Susan Lee Kerr by Lucy Bacon

A conversation with local author Susan Lee Kerr about her new haiku collection.

usan Lee Kerr has published several books and has recently just released her haiku collection ‘The Walk Home.’ We sat down to discuss what has inspired her love of writing and poetry.

“Haiku do not tell people this is a beautiful sunset, it makes them feel it. They put the reader right in the moment without saying how to feel about it. I find in mainstream poetry I am being told too much.”

Ever since she was a little girl, Susan explains: “I always wanted to be a writer. My father was a journalist and was always praising Shakespeare and my mother used to somehow always find time to disappear into books. Writing was what I wanted to do and just what I had to do.”

apple tree its perfect fruit hanging on my neighbour’s side A gift of moments, ‘The Walk Home’ is Susan’s first collection and she was inspired to make it by her big birthday this year. When she began to form the collection, she discovered that she had 450 haiku on her computer from her years of writing.

Susan’s first love was teenage magazines, laughing she says, “they opened up a whole new world for me.” Her love for magazines may have been what led her to become a copywriter for makeup companies in New York. It was while she was in New York, that Susan first discovered haiku poetry.

Susan explains the process of editing her work: “I went through all my haiku and winnowed through them to find the ones I wanted to publish. I decided to follow my heart and picked the ones that I liked and wanted someone to read again.”

“I was visiting a garden and there was a little gift booklet next to the till. I remember really liking the cover and opening it up to see what was inside. I had never heard of haiku before that. I liked the wry humour of these tiny poems, they seemed to be kind and gentle but also bemused. I decided to try and write some.”

In the book, the haiku are in the order in which Susan wrote them. So, as you read through the collection, you can see how Susan’s style shifted and grew. “When I first started writing haiku I focused on the number of syllables as it provided structure but now, when I write, I think of my haiku being as long as a breath.”

However, Susan’s passion for writing haiku did not take off until she moved to London and discovered the British Haiku Society.

I finish the interview by asking Susan if she has any advice for aspiring poets and she smiles: “Write, write, write and don’t be perfect. Just scribble and write.”

When I asked Susan why she loves haiku, she pauses for a moment, then says, “I always notice a leaf on the ground or a striking sunset. Haiku give me a place to put that kind of noticing and they help me to open up to nature. And to city life and human life, too.”

To purchase Susan’s collection please visit her website susanleekerr.com.

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Emery Walker’s House Museum goes virtual By Rachel Magee

The Hammersmith home-turned-museum of Emery Walker has launched virtual events for people to explore the museum in spite of its closure due to coronavirus.

he Hammersmith home-turned-museum of Emery Walker has launched virtual events for people to explore the museum in spite of its closure due to coronavirus.

eras and cultures, and many with very personal pedigrees, made and given to them by their creative friends. It's wonderfully quirky and fun you really don’t know where to look first as it is packed with pictures, ceramics, and decorative details against a backdrop of beautiful, hand blocked wallpapers, designed by William Morris.”

Emery Walker’s house is a well-kept preservation and demonstration of the Arts and Crafts movement of the 19th and 20th century. In the time of the industrial revolution, Emery Walker was at the forefront of this movement which was a reaction against the influx of massproduced goods being churned out by factories. Turning away from the factory, the movement promoted artisanry and craftsmanship and valued the creativity and individuality of the people who made products. The interiors of the house, located on 7 Hammersmith terrace, are typical of the homes of many of the key figures in the Arts and Crafts movement.

Like many museums, Emery Walker’s House had to close its doors in March. Their usual visitor numbers and income from tickets for this period have plummeted from 90% bookings to zero. The museum remains closed until safe for visitors to return but has launched virtual events for visitors during its closure including virtual and guided tours of the house and riverside garden on the museum’s website.

Lucinda MacPherson, a spokeswoman for the museum, spoke of the charm of Walker’s house: “Stepping through the door of number 7 Hammersmith terrace is stepping back in time. Unlike some museums, which have been curated to look like they did in the past, this house went straight from being a home to a house museum so is a perfectly preserved time capsule, and pretty much just as it was when the Walkers lived here.

On November 7th, the museum held an online, live and interactive talk by Dr Sara Choudhrey on its Islamic collection. The talk situated Walker’s Islamic collection within the wider narrative of Islamic art and its influence on the British Arts and Crafts movement. The collection includes a tiny Qur’an which was worn on a chain by soldiers, complete with a miniature magnifying glass. The Emery Walker’s House museum has also produced educational packs for kids which can be found on their website.

“They surrounded themselves with an eclectic mix of interesting objects spanning different

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Meet the Artist: Brenda Sakoui by Lucy Bacon

We talk to local artist Brenda Sakoui about how the local landscape has inspired her.

hen I talk to Brenda Sakoui she has just got back from her studio where she has been “wrestling with some flowers.” Brenda is a well-respected local artist known for her striking nudes and sculptural flowers. She grew up in Hammersmith and still lives there today with her husband.

When I ask Brenda, what inspires her work she replies: “I find the idea of inspiration a bit cliché as everything makes me want to paint.” “I have been influenced by urban landscapes and growing up in Hammersmith, the bridge has acted as a point of fascination. It is iconic and acts as a monumental gateway from the West to the North. I have always loved bridges as they lead from one thing to another.”

From a young age, Brenda knew that she wanted to paint. “I have always been painting and drawing. I find it very satisfying and rewarding to put my ideas down in paint.” Brenda attended Ealing School of Art in the 1960s, notable for its variety of arts, as well as its students such as Freddie Mercury, Ronnie Wood and Pete Townsend, and teachers such as David Bailey.

Hammersmith Bridge forms the focal point for a number of Brenda’s paintings, and her paintings have been exhibited at the Riverside Studios. Another thing that sparks Brenda’s imagination is experimenting with colour. She says, “sometimes I go through dry periods and I make myself go into the studio and just mix colour. It helps me to formulate my ideas as the action of painting brings me inspiration.”

Brenda started a family not long after she left the college which, in those days, meant that she had to acquire a more reliable income, and so left art behind for more regular work. Forty years later, in her mid-fifties, she decided to pick up the brush again and throw herself back into art. She decided to re-train and attended classes at Heatherlys School of Art and the Princes Drawing School (now the Royal Drawing School), in order to brush up on her skills.

She lets out a bit of a bemused sigh: “Inspiration is really hard work. It is difficult to translate one’s idea into a painting but when it goes right it is very energising!” Brenda has become an unintentionally prolific artist and her work has already gained a growing following amongst notable people within the fashion industry including designers and fashion editors.

Brenda feels that it is good for any aspiring artist to receive training: “If you want to be an artist do it but get some solid training to help you sort out your style and approach. But remember to take what you want from your training nothing is written in stone.”

You can see Brenda’s work on Instagram @ brendaspaintings.

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Urban Rose by Lucy Bacon

‘I think people took the beauty industry for granted before COVID-19’

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BEAUTY

rban Rose is Chiswick’s first Champagne & Beauty bar. They take pride in offering the best possible service and offer a wide range of treatments both to suit and to enhance a spectrum of client’s needs. The salon re-opened in July and has been happy to see many of their customers return. Jennifer, one of the founders of Urban Rose, explains: “We are really lucky to have an amazingly loyal customer base who have come back to us.” “Everyone wants to go back to normality and if you come and get your nails done for an hour you can relax and not have to worry about what’s going on. Everyone deserves time for themselves.” “I think people took the beauty industry for granted before lockdown, but people have now realised how little luxuries make them feel.” “Beauty is so much more than a luxury, it can impact the way people feel and it can give them a boost of confidence when they need one.” Urban Rose has been extremely focused on making sure their customers are as safe as possible when they visit the beauty bar. When a client enters Urban Rose they are required to sanitise their hands at the automatic dispenser located at the main entrance. All staff members wear face shields and face masks. The majority of treatments are conducted from behind a screen thus minimising contact. After a client leaves each station is fully cleaned and sterilised. Urban Rose opened two years ago and has been extremely popular because of the range of services that it offers plus its luxurious champagne bar. Jennifer came up with the idea of having a champagne bar in the beauty salon because it was something, she and her friends would have loved to do but it was never on offer, so she decided to create it. However, Jennifer thinks Urban Rose’s greatest strength is their atmosphere: “Clients say that our atmosphere is simply amazing. What we offer is so much more than a service we are like a little family. For the hour, a client is with us it is all about them, it is their hour.” Urban Rose used its time during lockdown to train and start new ventures. Soon they will be offering Elemis’ no-touch facials, which use an LED mask. Only sterilized tools touch the client’s face during the facial making it extremely hygienic. The beauty bar has also just launched its own brand of scented candles for clients to buy and enjoy at home. Jennifer explains, “Lockdown really pushed us to discover what we want to do next and we are now working towards becoming our own brand. I think, ultimately, we want to use and design our own products.” Urban Rose plans to re-open in early December if Goverment Restrictions will allow it. 33

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Psychological tips for Surviving the Winter by Lucy Bacon

We spoke to four local psychotherapists about how to keep your spirits up this winter.

Nicholas Rose

inter can be a difficult time for many of us especially with our world reduced to what feels like endless darkness and rain. However, this year will be particularly challenging for many of us because of tightening Lockdown restrictions and the increasing worry about the state of the world. We spoke to four local psychotherapists: Nicholas Rose, Martin Weaver, Monika Smolar, and John Dinwoodie about how best to psychologically survive this winter. Acknowledge how you feel: It is important to acknowledge how you feel and accept it. If you are feeling stressed, angry, or frustrated, do not criticise yourself for feeling that way. It is a normal response to so much uncertainty. Make it a regular habit to check in with yourself to see how you are feeling. One way of doing this, which both Nicholas and Monika recommend, is to start journaling how you feel. It is important to reflect on why you are feeling this way and to try and decide what you are going to do about it. Take charge: Once you have acknowledged how you feel, it is good to take practical steps to make yourself feel better. 34

Much of our anxiety is caused by events and things that we believe we cannot control, John recommends creating tasks each day that give you agency i.e. some power over events and a sense of achievement. This action could be as simple as walking your dog every morning at 8:00 or learning to cook a new dish each week. Setting goals for yourself and creating some structure is important. Take time to live in the moment. If you are enjoying your walk, focus on how that feels and do not think about the other parts of your life which you cannot control. But remember if you are feeling overwhelmed that this moment will pass. Martin suggests thinking about another difficult time in your life and think about how you got through it. Can you use any of those strategies now? Do not forget about the basics. Make sure that you are sleeping and eating well, be kind and patient towards yourself as this can have a drastic impact on your mood. Communicate: As Lockdown tightens communication becomes ever more important and can prevent us from feeling isolated, while also allowing us to live in close confines with others with minimal conflict.

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If you are struggling this winter do communicate this to your loved ones and have a conversation about how you would like to be helped.

for many people this year.Christmas this year will not look like a normal Christmas and it is ok to be upset about this. However, this does not mean that Christmas cannot be fun.

Nicholas suggests using the phrase “I find it helpful if…” So, for example, you could say to your family, “I find it helpful if you let me vent to you once a week” or “I find it helpful if you give me some time to myself to process my thoughts.”

Reflect on what Christmas means to you and what is it about the celebration that you really enjoy. Once you have discovered what is most important to you about the holiday, go ahead and plan how you can capture that feeling this year.

If you are trying to reach out to a friend or family member who is struggling it is also important to offer them space. Martin recommends that you show that you are curious about their lives and open up the conversation by asking, “What’s happening with you?’” But if they are not ready to talk he recommends that you do not push them, just offer the space. A fun way of improving communication in relationships is to have a weekly check-in with each other simply to see how you are doing. You can use this time by creating lists of things to do which are fun and bring you joy such as art or baking. Talk about all this with your friends or family and then set aside a time each week to complete a fun task. Christmas: Important dates are always times of heightened emotion and so Christmas may be challenging

If you enjoy spending time with family at Christmas, you could organise a Christmas morning zoom call where you can all open your presents together. Or, if it is the food and cooking at Christmas that you love thinking about, having fewer people around might allow you to experiment this year and try a new recipe. It may be a very different Christmas this year but remember the world will not be like this forever. One day soon, this will all be over. It helps too if you remember that sometimes your friends and family do not have the expertise to help you if you are feeling especially down. If you find this to be the case it can be helpful to reach out to therapists, your GP and other professionals and seek help in the form of counselling, coaching or psychotherapy. 35

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Nicholas Rose & Associates was created by Nicholas to meet an increasing demand for counselling, psychology, couples counselling, psychotherapy, child psychotherapy and family therapy services in Chiswick, West London and online in the UK. Nicholas Rose & Associates can be contacted on 020 8996 9551 or by emailing info@nicholas-rose.co.uk

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Bone Daddies by Lucy Bacon

New ramen restaurant opens in Richmond.

visited Bone Daddies in Richmond on its first weekend open. The first thing, I saw was a long queue of hungry locals outside the restaurant desperate to try Bonnie Daddies famous ramen. The Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much-loved Japanese Soul Food group has expanded into West London with the launch of its 6th Bone Daddies site in Richmond on 14th October. Bone Daddies' newest ramen site accommodates up to 80 guests and serves Bone Daddies classics, including the Tonkotsu and T22 Ramens, as well as fried chicken, pig bones, and bao buns. Bone Daddies was founded in 2012, by Demetri Tomazos and Ross Shonhan, and their first restaurant was in Soho. Their chain sparked a passion for Japanese cuisine served in a casual setting, particularly ramen, which is the dish they have become renowned for. The new Bone Daddies site in Richmond is a lovely building and has been decorated with cool prints of manga extracts. When we entered the restaurant, we were immediately greeted by very friendly and professional staff who coped with the long queue and busy service exceptionally well. I decided to try Bone Daddiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most popular ramen, the Tomazos, which is Chashu pork belly, spring onion, bamboo, beansprouts, burnt garlic, and a Clarence Court egg in a pork broth with noodles. The dish was delicious if a little messy to eat, I did have to embarrass myself by asking for a fork after my noodles fell out of my chopsticks for the fifth time.The service was very speedy and the portions generous. If you are not in the mood for ramen, there are also lots of other dishes you can try, ranging from Katsu curry to crispy duck buns. There are also vegetarian options with ramen dishes made from mushroom broth, and you can also ask for vegan versions without eggs. For dessert, you can choose from a large selection of mochi ice cream balls. Personally, I would try the black espresso ones. If you are looking for a place to go for a quick, casual but delicious meal, Bone Daddies is definitely worth a visit. Bone Daddies, Richmond is located at 26 Hill Street, Richmond, TW9 1TW. 36

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The Cricketers in Kew by Lucy Bacon

The pub is under new management and ready for its next innings

he Cricketers, in Kew Green reopened under new independent ownership on 29th August after undergoing extensive renovation work.

He has worked in kitchens around the world and has run two Marco Pierre White restaurants in London. The menu at The Cricketers was simple but delicious. For a starter, I had the calamari, which was crispy and had a lovely zing from the chillies that were sprinkled on top of it. Their roast pork belly was also very tender and juicy and came with just the right amount of crackling. There are also some great fish and pasta options if you are not in the mood for a roast.

When you walk into the pub it feels light and airy. You are greeted by and a fantastic cricketing mural and welcomed by a friendly charming staff who clearly want the Cricketers to be a big success. The new owner, Adam Rontaler, previously worked in wealth management in the City, but his dream has always been to own and run a pub. He and his wife, Victoria, (director of her own events and PR agency) are looking forward to this new venture in their new home.

However, the best part of the meal was the dessert. If you are a chocoholic, you must try The Cricketers’ gooey chocolate brownie. The rich dessert is complemented with a tart blood orange sorbet which makes you feel like you are eating a sumptuous Jaffa cake.

Now a free house, The Cricketers aims to claim its place at the heart of the local community by offering excellent food and exceptional, friendly service. The bar serves a wide range of beers, ales, wines, and spirits (and some cocktails). The food menu focuses on traditional British pub dishes and uses fresh seasonal ingredients.

The kitchen is open Tuesday to Sunday with a weekday lunch menu, as well as a fabulous Sunday lunch and weekend brunch. Bookings are now being taken. If the local response to the delicious food is anything to go by, The Cricketers should have many good innings!

Head Chef, Gary O’Sullivan, has over 25 years’ experience in the restaurant industry.

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The Chiswick Herald has Launched a News App! The Chiswick Herald app will allow you to easily access local news - ranging from politics to culture - from your phone.

We are thrilled that we can now provide our readers with an app that makes it easier than ever to access our articles.

The app is free and can now be downloaded from the app store and the google play store. On the app, readers can see the latest articles that have been published and browse through different topics including local life and council news.

The editor of The Chiswick Herald, Lucy Bacon, says, “I am very excited that our readers can now have all the local news that they need right at their fingertips.”

You can also save the news stories you enjoy so you can come back and enjoy them later. COVID-19 means that we are now an entirely digital newspaper, and this has opened exciting new opportunities for us.

“Lockdown and COVID-19 have shown us how important our local community is and that it is crucial that we all stay informed about what is happening in Chiswick. This is just another way that we can help keep Chiswick the thriving community that we all love.”

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Half a Million Pounds Worth of Fines Issued on Turnham Green Terrace by Lucy Bacon

There are also currently 839 on hold following the submission of a representation. The representation can include motorists challenging the issuing of a PCN or a request for a change of keeper – these are usually hire vehicles or where an employee is liable for PCNs.' Cllr John Todd says, “My view is this a punitive application of a confusing inadequate traffic scheme devoid of any consultation process or meaningful dialogue with Chiswick Councillors.” “Initial warning to residents, businesses and other users about this scheme was grossly inadequate and was compounded by inadequate signage, a matter which continues, despite our representations.” “The overt indifference towards Chiswick by this Labour Administration and it's brutal financial punishment towards residents and businesses is contemptuous.” “We will continue to oppose this and other schemes or seek credible and practical changes to them.”

Hounslow Council has issued over 4,000 Penalty Charge Notices (PCN) on Turnham Green Terrace after introducing new access restrictions.

he figures, obtained by local councillor, John Todd, show that the value of fines issued up to the end of September for Turnham Green Terrace alone total over £500,000. The information from Hounslow Council Parking Services shows that 42 PCNs have been issued in Devonshire Road and 3,982 PCNs were issued in Turnham Green Terrace in September. The total value of the tickets at the full fine of £130 per ticket is £523,120. However, during the discount period, the charge is £65 per ticket. As of 30/09/2020, 1,487 people have paid the fines; with 1,449 of those paid during the discount period. There are currently 2,785 PCNs still open which have not been paid.

Brian Burgess awarded the British Empire Medal for his services to football by Lucy Bacon

held belief that football and the local community should be fully integrated, which leads to enhanced social cohesion. Speaking about the Trust, he said: “As a charity, the Community Sports Trust delivers a wide range of programmes using the power of sport to educate, motivate and inspire people from all backgrounds including vulnerable and hard-to-reach groups. The way in which the team has successfully adapted these goals to the difficult circumstances of the pandemic has been truly amazing.” “Therefore, this award is a tribute to everyone involved in the Community Sports Trust and its partners, and the efforts of so many former colleagues and volunteers at the Club and Bees United.” “On a personal level, I owe so much to my late wife, Sylvia, who was and always will be an inspiration.” Along with his pioneering community work, Brian has been actively involved with Brentford FC for most of his life, initially as a supporter. He was Chairman of Bees United, the Brentford Supporters’ Trust, when the fans completed a takeover of Brentford FC in early 2006, helping raise the funds required to refinance the Club.

Brian Burgess has been awarded the British Empire Medal for his services to football in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

rian, who has been involved with Brentford FC for decades, has been a Trustee for the Brentford FC Community Sports Trust for more than 15 years, helping to cement Brentford’s reputation as a community-led football club. He has been recognised for his voluntary service to football. Speaking about the award, Brian said: “I am delighted and humbled to be awarded this BEM, which recognises the valuable work of Brentford FC Community Sports Trust and its impact in local communities.” “It’s an absolute privilege to have served as a Trustee from the Trust’s inception in 2005 and to work closely with Chief Executive Lee Doyle and his team in developing such exciting projects such as the new community hub next to Brentford Community Stadium and the impressive sports hub at Gunnersbury Park.” His passion for the Trust derives from a long-

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Public outcry increases over Turnham Green traffic restrictions. by Lucy Bacon

of traffic being caused by the new systems which is making day to day life in Chiswick more difficult. One local wrote, “ It’s just such a bad decision. I can’t see how this got through. It’s really affecting everyone’s day to day lives for the worse. I can’t see how it helps anyone.” People who are in favour of reducing the use of cars in Chiswick were sceptical of the new system actually making these changes. It was also pointed out that the increase in traffic jams meant that there is now more pollution as cars are standing still and idling their engines for longer. A local asked, “Surely a constant and flowing traffic movement is important if you want to decrease the effects of carbon in a particular area? So introducing traffic controls that create massive jams, resulting in revving and idling is a bad plan..?” Last night Ealing held an ‘Extraordinary Meeting of the Council’ to vote on removing the new traffic restrictions on Fisher’s Lane which have also caused major disruption. Labour voted to maintain the new measures so the scheme will still continue.

Chiswick locals continue to oppose the new traffic restrictions in Turnham Green.

any locals are now refusing to pay the Penalty Charge Notices (PCN) which they have received for going the wrong way down Turnham Green terrace or Devonshire Road. We put a post on our Instagram account asking for people’s opinions about the new traffic restrictions and fines. None of the comments we received were in favour of the new changes with people labelling the changes as “madness” and a “disaster”. A number of local businesses raised concerns about how the restrictions were impacting their customers. One comment said, “The wrong decisions have been made without consultation. Anyone with a small business on Turnham Green Terrace or Devonshire Road has already suffered terribly during lockdown - these measures will cause many small businesses to fail, leaving Chiswick with countless empty shops.” Many locals were also frustrated by the amount

Chiswick School Raises Money for Young Minds by Lucy Bacon

activities involving wearing something yellow, preparing and selling cream teas to staff, a raffle and games. All of the events and activities were run by the Year 7 enterprise team and the Year 8-11 Mental Health Ambassadors. The Art department also created ‘Wellbeing Trees” in every year group area of the school. Students can add to them by writing a note on a ‘leaf ’ detailing either a way they support their own wellbeing or something that they believe will help another young person’s mental health. The #HelloYellow day was a huge success in raising awareness in the school community and beyond, as well as raising a fantastic £632.41. “As a school we fully support young people's mental health. Once again, Friday proved to us how much of a community the school is. The day was full of joy and togetherness with the whole school focusing on the importance of our mental wellbeing and supporting each other.” - Paula Middleton, Assistant Headteacher.

Chiswick School took part in #HelloYellow to raise awareness and vital funds to support the charity Young Minds UK.

ockdown has had and continues to have a devastating effect on children’s and young people’s mental health. It’s been unbelievably hard, but together, we can make a difference and show young people they are not alone. On Friday 9th October, Chiswick School took part in #HelloYellow to raise awareness and vital funds to support the charity Young Minds UK whose mission is to ensure young people get the best possible mental health support and have the resilience to overcome life’s difficulties. Throughout the day, Chiswick School promoted the cause with a series of events and activities, including their first ever whole school virtual assembly! Students took part in fundraising

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13 Stargazing Experiences Around The World Stellar stargazing destinations to celebrate World Astronomy Day on 5 October 2020

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Celestial experiences on the Isle of Wight, Namibia, Trentino, Idaho, Mauritius, Arizona, and Puerto Rico

n celebration of World Astronomy Day on 5 October 2020, below is a selection of stellar experiences that will leave travellers starstruck; from award-winning night skies in Namibia and northern Italy, to bright bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico or sleeping under the stars in a bubble lodge in Mauritius.

where guests can sleep out under the stars. www.namibiatourism.com

Escape to the Isle of Wight with Wightlink for a stargazing experience Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Isle of Wight has some of the darkest skies in the UK making it perfect for an astronomical night out. Undeniably, the best stargazing locations lie anywhere along the Military Road that runs along the south-west coast of the Island and is here that visitors will be able to see all the big players including Milky Way, Cassiopeia, Orion and the Plough. Those looking for the low down on stargazing tips on the Island should head to the Island Planetarium at Fort Victoria. Wightlink transports visitors to their stargazing adventure on the Isle of Wight with just a 45-minute ferry ride. www.wightlink.co.uk

Witness some ‘the most beautiful skies in Italy’, Trentino The mountains of Trentino in northern Italy have been heralded as one of the best places to relish in nature and gaze up at the ‘Milky Way’, and in particular, the Val Di Sole valley offers a particularly clear view of the dark night sky. Surrounded by dense alpine scenery, visitors can rejuvenate in a cosy log cabin whilst absorbing the views above and around them. The village of Ossana has been given ‘the most beautiful skies in Italy’ Certificate of Quality by Astronomitaly. The certification is aimed at locations with a low percentage of light pollution and it is committed to the development of astronomical tourism in Italy. Trentino offers an ideal stargazing setting all year round, with warm Italian nights during the summer months and snow capped mountains during the winter months. www.visittrentino.info

Gaze at the sparkling night sky at NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia With its vast landscapes and minimal light pollution, Namibia boasts some of the darkest skies measured on earth, allowing visitors to look deep into the atmosphere almost every night of the year. One of the best places to witness the dazzling night sky is at the NamibRand Nature Reserve, the second place in the world to be awarded gold tier Dark Sky Reserve status by the International Dark-Sky Association in 2012. The NamibRand is home to exceptionally dark skies, with its nearest community lying 60 miles away, allowing a clear view of the Southern Cross and Scorpio constellations, amongst others. Although many lodges across Namibia take advantage of the dark sky and offer their own telescopes for guests, stargazing enthusiasts should visit Boulders Safari Camp - part of The Wolwedans Collection - where tents can open up to showcase the purest views of the sky. Wolwedans also offers the chance to escape the main camp on a two-night hiking trail

Witness bright stars and dark skies in Idaho, USA The mountainous northwestern state of Idaho has more designated wilderness than anywhere else in the continental USA, and the beauty doesn’t end when the sun goes down. The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, which includes the communities of Ketchum, Sun Valley and Stanley, and the Sawtooth Mountains, was designated in December 2017 and is one of only 13 Dark Sky Reserves in the world, and the only one in the United States. Idaho’s low population base, coupled with its rural landscape and vast wilderness areas makes it easy to find dark skies. The reserve works with several organisations to offer stargazing events and educational astronomy programmes throughout the year. Adventurous travellers can also set up camp in the Dark Sky Reserve, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Bruneau Dunes State Park, or just about anywhere in Idaho’s rural areas, to marvel at the unbelievably brilliant, starry sky. www.visittheusa.co.uk

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Sleep under the stars in a bubble room in Mauritius Astronomy enthusiasts visiting Mauritius can stargaze from the comfort of their air-conditioned bubble room at Bubble Lodge. The property consists of three luxurious,completelytransparent and eco-friendly bubble rooms located on a tea plantation, where lush green jungles, a lake, and a mountainous landscape make the perfect backdrop for viewing the stars. The eco-friendly â&#x20AC;&#x153;dreaming bubblesâ&#x20AC;?, created by French designer Pierre Stephane Dumashe, feature queen-sized beds, en suite bathrooms, outdoor showers and coffee makers, alongside other amenities. Each night an astronomer is on hand to help guests identify constellations and other night-sky phenomena such as Pegasus, Southern Cross, and the Milky Way, while the stargazing app, Skyview, assists with a private viewing throughout the night. www.tourism-mauritius.mu

Experience celestial bliss in Scottsdale, Arizona Unlike most cities, Scottsdale is optimal for stargazing year-round with its desert landscape, low light pollution and clear night skies. With Arizona being home to the International Dark-Sky Association, aiming to combat light pollution and raise awareness of the value of dark skies, Scottsdale offers incredible experiences for budding astronomers. Summer nights can be spent walking under the stars at Pinnacle Peak Park on a full moon hike or in a 4x4 vehicle, navigating through the pitch-black Sonoran Desert on a night-vision drive, ticking off unusual star patterns on their constellation chart along the way. Not to be missed by astronomy enthusiasts is a stay at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale. As the night draws in, resort guests can join

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a complimentary tour led by astrologist Richard Allen, often with sightings of Jupiter, Saturn and Mars depending on the time of year. Alternatively, guests can spot the stars from their own bedroom with state-of-theart telescopes and constellation charts offered in every suite room. For something a little more romantic, couples can book onto a celestial picnic under the starry sky including cosy blankets, a constellation chart, telescope, photographer and personal butler for the evening. www.experiencescottsdale.com

light pollution makes Vieques perfect for stargazing. Visitors to Vieques can take a Bio Bay Tour of Mosquito Bay, one of the world's five bioluminescent bays, where guides will highlight the constellations and planets. Three of the world's five bioluminescent bays are located in Puerto Rico and of these, Mosquito Bay was officially declared the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world by Guinness Book of World Records in 2006. The mesmerizing brightness of the bay is due to the remote location and abundant concentration of dinoflagellates. Night tours take place when the Moon isn't full to ensure the best conditions for seeing both the stars and waters glow as the night sky is reflected in the bioluminescent waters of the bay creating a truly spectacular natural light show. www.discoverpuertorico.com

See the stars reflected in one of the world's five bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico The island of Vieques in Puerto Rico is fast becoming an astrotourism hotspot. With two-thirds of the island designated as a protected nature reserve, the low

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The ABC of CBD

Hello Chiswick! We’re beleaf, the UK’s premium CBD retailer, and we’ve just arrived on Chiswick High Road! Open now at 288 Chiswick High Road, or online at shopbeleaf.co.uk Come and meet our friendly experts in store to find out more about CBD products, try a new brand, or simply enjoy a complimentary fresh juice! And for all our new customers – here’s 10% off your first purchase in store or online – simply hand in this voucher, or enter the code when prompted at checkout.

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Falcons Pre-Preparatory School Preparing for the 7+ and beyond

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Our Asian Art Department is one of the top UK destinations for the sale of Chinese, Japanese, Tibetan, Korean and Southeast Asian Art, delivering exceptional sales results time and time again. If you have a Chinese vase tucked away in your attic or other items of Asian interest, the Department is happy to provide a free and confidential valuation. Get in touch: lazarus@chiswickauctions.co.uk Visit chiswickauctions.co.uk

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AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE BY PAULA I am a Qualified Holistic Therapist offering (outcall/mobile) full-body Aromatherapy massage. Unwind & allow yourself some pampering for your body, mind & soul with peace & tranquillity to recover & to de-stress. I also offer Holistic spiritual Counselling to help you to overcome any issues you are dealing with. I also have plenty experience in Elderly Care & Childcare.

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Let the healing properties of salt reduce the symptoms of respiratory and skin conditions and improve your immune system. With repeat sessions saltâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial and antihistamine properties can help reduce symptoms of asthma, sinusitis, COPD, hay fever, acne, eczema, psoriasis and much more. Suitable for children and adults. Your safety is our priority. We have taken all precautions to ensure hygiene and social distancing measures are in place. During a salt therapy session, the air pressure and saltinfused air means that you are in a sterile environment. Chiswick Magazine readers can get a 20% discount off a Private session in the Adult Room. Use by 31st August 20.

THE CHIWSICK MAGAZINE Helen Pidgeon Solicitors Limited Building 7 Chiswick Park 566 Chiswick High Road London W4 5YG DD: +44 (0)203 585 2576 M: +44 (0)7833 228181 helen@helenpidgeonsolicitors.com www.helenpidgeonsolicitors.com

Here, Helen Pidgeon, the director of Helen Pidgeon Solicitors, family law specialists in Chiswick, explains some common legal issues that crop up for separating parents. Here, Helen Pidgeon, the director of Helen Pidgeon Solicitors, family law specialists in Chiswick, explains some common legal issues that crop up for separating parents. If you have children, there are, along with the emotional and financial issues, the everyday practicalities to sort out; where the child or children will live, how much time they will spend with each parent and what each parent can legally do without involving the other.

Private organisations or state run Separated Parents Information Programme “SPIP” (Cafcass website has a directory) offer parenting group classes that you can attend together or alone. If the court becomes involved you could be ordered to attend a SPIP or similar parenting programme. Parenting Apps such as Our Family Wizard www.ourfamilywizard.co.uk and Parenting Apart divorceandchildren.com/divorce-app/ can provide neutral calendars to manage diary dates and the sharing of other co-parenting information.

You may not need to involve the court in these arrangements if everything can be agreed between you. If you need some assistance with these arrangements then start by looking into drawing up a parenting plan setting out clear principles and the arrangements for the children. These do not have to be set in stone and can be reviewed as the children grow up and their needs change, but they can provide a very useful framework and reference point. The Children and Family Court Advisory Support Service “Cafcass” who are the court appointed social workers, have provided some guidance on the issues to think about in its Parenting Plan which can be found on its website www.cafcass.gov.uk .

SHOULD THERE BE SHARED CARE?

If both parents work and are involved in the day to day care of the children, we are increasingly seeing parents who want to share the care of a child. There is a presumption that each parent, including the non-resident parent, should spend time with a child provided there is no risk of harm to the child. There is not a presumption of shared care. It will depend upon the circumstances for the care arrangements as to whether this can be facilitated and the kind of relationship the parents have after separating. Shared care doesn’t necessarily mean sharing the amount of time a child spends with each parent equally.

WHAT ARE YOUR PARENTAL RIGHTS?

As a mother you automatically have parental responsibility. As a father, you either have parental responsibility by being married to the mother before or after your child’s birth or, by being named as the father on the child’s birth certificate (for a child that has been born after 1 December 2003). Parental responsibility means you share equally “all the rights, duties, powers, responsibilities and authority which by law a parent of a child has in relation to the child and their property”. It is your status as a parent. You must consult with each other on the major decisions in your child’s life; such as schooling, health, education, religion, changing a child’s name and taking a child abroad for any time at all.

A court can make a shared care order as a way to avoid one parent trying to alienate or exercise too much control over the other. Neither is there a specific formula for shared care with alternating days or weeks. Any arrangement will depend on the practicalities and must be within the best interests of the child as their welfare is the key concern of the court. DO I NEED TO HAVE A PARENTING PLAN OR COURT ORDER?

It is not compulsory to have either if everything is agreed. If there have been difficulties in agreeing the past arrangements, a parenting plan setting out clear and agreed principles and defining the arrangements may help and as a last resort, if agreement cannot be reached, then an order drawn up with the help of family law specialists may help to prevent further difficulties in the future.

FINDING WAYS TO CONSULT WITH EACH OTHER

After a difficult separation, it’s not uncommon for some parents to still need help in putting a Parenting Plan together, either from a solicitor or a mediator. The exercise can be more productive if both parents are informed about their parental rights beforehand.

This article assumes you are the natural birth parents of a child and does not deal with the law on step-parents, same sex parents, surrogacy or adoption when the legal issues may differ and more specialist advice is required.

Mediators who are non-legal and legal professionals (Family Mediation Council www.familymediationcouncil.org.uk and Resolution: first for family law www.resolution.org.uk/ find_a_mediator) can offer assistance to both parents at the same time. Mediation can be done in several different ways to make each parent feel heard and supported. There can be “co-mediation” with two mediators or “shuttle” mediation with one mediator who travels between the rooms that you separately occupy. Many mediators are now conducting mediation safely and successfully using remote technology too.

This article is intended for general advice upon the law. If you require advice about your particular circumstances then you should seek your own independent legal advice about the approach you should take and how this will affect you. Helen Pidgeon is a solicitor, mediator and collaborative lawyer and director of Helen Pidgeon Solicitors specialising in private children law as well as all aspects of private family law matters. Please contact us if you require further assistance to help you decide what is right for you and your family.

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VIESTRA EXCLUSIVE COMPETITION FEATURE

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THE TOWNHOUSE COLLECTION Prices from £899,950*

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EARLIER CLOSING. BUBBLIER OPENING. As per the latest government directive we’ll be closing the Villa at 10pm for the foreseeable future. We appreciate that this means you’ll be going out earlier than you’re used to. To reward our loyal friends and clients, we’ll be offering a complimentary glass of our finest Prosecco on arrival to diners who book tables between 5 - 6pm. LUNCH service will carry on as usual 12-3pm, seven days a week DINNER service will start at 5pm - last bookings at 9pm (ending dinner service at 10pm) We are grateful to all our wonderful patrons. We remain positive and continue to maintain every precaution to ensure the safety of our clients and our team. To book, call 020 3384 9442 or email contact@villadigeggiano.co.uk

Welcome to The Hogarth, a unique independent health club in the heart of Chiswick.

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We have reimagined every area of the Club so you can feel safe in every space.Your health and fitness has never been so important, and we're here to help you discover something you love that gets you moving.

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