the
E list
Your cultural life in and around Walthamstow No.22 • December 2014
Fellowship is Life
O
ne day people WILL look back on 2014 and say this was the year when everything changed for Walthamstow. For years we were known as a ‘most likely to” town but for whatever reason it never quite happened. This year something clicked and off we went. The amount of amazing things that have happened, opened or popped up is just too long to list here so thanks to Walthamstow Diary for naming giving us a few in his column on page 30 and of course to Linda Hughes for her selection on our cover.
The one thing I’d like to end the year with is the surprise news that Antic have bought the EMD/Granada cinema on Hoe Street. If you’ve visited the Leyton Technical, Leytonstone’s Red Lion or my personal favourite the Clapton Hart you will see what an incredible job they do bringing old, unloved and often unusual buildings back to life. They don’t go for the sterile chain company look, but instead seek to uncover the history of the building, often literally peeling back the layers, and then leaving them exposed. To my mind they are London’s coolest pub company and I really pray that they are able to join forces with London’s coolest theatre company, the Soho Theatre (part of the Waltham Forest Cinema Trust) to give us not just a great local venue, but a London wide destination here in the heart of Walthamstow. If this happens in 2015 then truly things will never be the same. Finally we’re hoping to make it to Mother’s Ruin and Aura Rosa’s New Year’s Eve party so maybe see you there but if not wishing you a very happy holiday and let’s raise a toast to another great year in 2015. Paul Lindt, Editor editor@theelist.co.uk
Linda Hughes The E List asked illustrator and animator Linda to create us a special cover to celebrate the end of what has been a memorable year for Walthamstow. Here she talks about her other work.
There is a light that never goes out Chris Bracey, Citizen of Walthamstow and King of Neon We will miss you
Unmarked, a poem by Jack Ralph Two shows at Artefacto’s Art Space in Leytonstone The Wild Card Brewery Educating Walthamstow Wood Street Indoor Market Film director Barry Bliss Cordon Verve cooking school Highams Park cookshop Grace and Albert Christmas at the Mall Wilcumstowe Times – Christmas 1914 Local Hero - Grace Williams and Ingrid Abreu Scherer Walthamstow Diary The Magpie
COVER STAR
12 13 14 16 18 20 23 24 26 27 24 30 31
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All of my work starts with drawing, usually what’s around me – cafes, pubs, shopfronts and people out and about. Walthamstow has been a source of inspiration since I moved here in 1998.
Can you spot the events depicted in each of our festive baubles in Linda’s illustration on this month’s cover? They are from top left to bottom right: The Stow Festival; Walthamstow’s mini Glastonbury returned in September; Cinema finally came home in November with the Empire Walthamstow; A new mural appeared this summer at Blackhorse Road; A trial for Mini Holland met a mixed reception in October; The Town Hall played host to the Antiques Road Show in August; rock legend Paul Weller had a cup of coffee in the Village in April; Le Tour de France sped by in July; In March a 1910 Suffragette march was recreated for 2014’s International Women’s Day; The town’s 14 storey hotel opened in September; Joshua, the boy who came from nowhere was elected head boy at Frederick Bremer School as seen on Channel 4’s Educating the East End.
I took part in ‘News from Nowhere’, an art festival in and around the William Morris Gallery in 2005, exhibiting my work in the old theatre (now demolished) in Lloyd Park. In the book that inspired the festival William Morris wakes up a hundred years in the future, to a better world. I imagined a future in which global warming had made the sea-level rise, creating what I imagined could be called ‘Walthamstow-on-Sea’. I thought this might lead to a revival of some run down buildings (which seemed unlikely to happen at that time!). The pool hall opposite the Bell pub used to be a theatre, so I drew it as it could be again. Blackhorse Road tube became a ferry stop, over to Ferry Lane in Tottenham. Penny Fielding has been an enthusiastic supporter, keeping my Walthamstow prints on display in her shop until she closed this year, and exhibiting my work as part of the ‘Illustrators East 17’ show in 2011, and ‘Happy Birthday Edward Lear’ in 2012. I used to live on Holloway Road, near the blue plaque for Edward Lear’s birth, on May 12th 1812. I organised an exhibition
for his 200th anniversary, co-curated with my husband, illustrator Andrew Baker. Fifty artists, including Glen Baxter and Peter Blegvad, contributed work inspired by Lear, recited poems and toasted him on his birthday, at the Poetry Society in Covent Garden. We toured the exhibition to Aldeburgh and to Southampton University. I made a print of Lear as a shopkeeper, whose shop was full of creations from his limericks, such as ‘amblongus pie’ and ‘periwinkle wine’. I studied illustration at Edinburgh College of Art, then animation at the Royal College of Art. For several years I’ve been working on an animated film, hand-drawn on paper. Every background is drawn and painted, twelve pictures for one second on screen. It has taken a long time, having been fitted in around bringing up my two boys, and teaching animation, but it’s almost complete. The film is about a fairground which comes every year to Kirkcaldy, Fife (where I grew up) and the excitement it brings for teenagers venturing there at night, with their friends.
My graduation film ‘Face Facts’, an animated satire on the beauty industry, can be seen on Youtube (‘Face Facts’ The Ugly Side of Beauty 3:49). It’s been shown on Channel Four and won a Gold Award at the Chicago Film Festival. This year I handdrew a short film for the Poetry Society to accompany ‘The Wind on the Downs’ by Marian Allen. She wrote the poem in 1917, just after hearing that her fiancée had been killed in the war. The film was shown at the Royal Festival Hall on National Poetry Day in October, and will hopefully help a new audience hear her work. Next year I’ll be working on images of Charles Dickens, out and about in London, as part of an exhibition organised by Louise Weir (another E17 based illustrator). I’m also planning to draw the industrial buildings around Blackhorse Lane, before they disappear forever. Some of my prints will be on sale at the E17 Designer pop-up shop on Hoe Street, from 3-7 December.
lindahughes1@gmail.com
ART
BOOKS
CRAFTS
DANCE/FITNESS
FAMILY
FILM
This month in town
December
Monday 1 Community Mondays: Making Recycled Christmas Decorations The Hornbeam Café, 458 Hoe Street E17 9AH Help us bring the festive spirit into the cafe by making recycled Christmas decorations to deck the space. Come along and volunteer your time, learn something new and meet new people. FREE lunch for all volunteers at 1pm. .10am-1pm. FREE. sofia@hornbeam.org.uk or call 0208 558 6880 East London Lesbians Meet Up Group The Castle Pub, 15 Grosvenor Rise East E17 9LB Month lesbian meet up group; relaxed, friendly and sociable. 7-10pm. FREE. Molly ell.molly@aol.co.uk www.meetup.com/East-London-Lesbians
Tuesday 2 Club Mellow 30+ Men’s Group ELOP Centre, 56-60 Grove Road Walthamstow E17 9BN Social evening around town for gay, bisexual or trans* men who have sex with men aged 30yrs & over who want to meet up with others in a friendly, supportive environment away from the scene. 7-9.30pm. £2. Booking required 020 8509 3898 info@elop.org Club Mellow 50+ Women’s Supper Club ELOP Centre, 56-60 Grove Road Walthamstow E17 9BN This NEW group is for lesbian, bisexual & trans 50+ women to socialise with supper. Tasty hot food and treat provided. 7-9pm. £2. 020 8509 3898 info@elop.org
Wednesday 3 E17 Designers Winter Markets Hoe Street Central, Hoe St E17 4RT First day of the shop open at 3pm with a selection of artists, designers and makers, selling gifts: a night of music with Tom Lynch and Portfolio Bar cocktails! 3-9pm. FREE. Carolyn 07904 546294 contact@e17designers.co.uk http://www.e17designers.co.uk/ Christmas Open Mic Ye Olde Rose & Crown, 53 Hoe Street E17 4SA Come and celebrate with us at the ‘christmas special’ open mic night showcasing a variety of musical and comedy talent from all over London. 7-11.30pm. FREE. andy@mirror-mic.com 07940 260558 Events marked
Voice & Presentation Skills for Effective Speaking Walthamstow Central Library, High Street E17 7JN Learn to speak out! Make more of an impression and be heard when you speak in meetings, at conferences or even with your family! 6.30-8pm. FREE. Angela Thompson 02084968205 angela.thompson@walthamforest.gov.uk http://www.wflibraries.eventbrite.com Normal Life / Zeus on the Loose Harmony Hall, 10 Truro Rd E17 7BY Two original shows about negotiating life from Grow Your Own Theatre’s Youth Theatres 1 & 2 (10-18yrs). Laugh, cry, be surprised! New term starts Jan 2015. 7-8pm. FREE but donations welcome 07740343240 or sarah@gyot.org.uk http://www.gyot.org.uk The Corn Potato String Band (USA) / Ryan O’Reilly What’s Cookin’ @ Leytonstone Exservicemens Club, 2 Harvey Road E11 3DB Featuring three award-winning multi-instrumentalists, the Corn Potato String Band play real American Appalachian folk music. 8.30-11pm. FREE with a collection. Stephen Ferguson 07904 210218 ramblinsteve@whatscookin.co.uk http://whatscookin.co.uk
Thursday 4 Late night shopping at 39 Orford Road 39 Orford Rd E17 9NL Join Little Mashers and Queenie & Ted for some relaxed late night shopping every Thursday evening in December. Enjoy some mulled cider while browsing through our locally made gifts and clothing. 10am-8pm. FREE. E17 Designers Winter Markets Hoe Street Central, Hoe St E17 4RT A selection of artists, designers and makers of E17 selling gifts, with afternoon tea daily from Suzie’s Cakes. Pop up and see us! 11am-7pm. FREE Carolyn contact@e17designers.co.uk http://www.e17designers.co.uk. Firestations Wild Card Brewery, Unit 7, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street E17 9HQ Launch for Firestations album ‘Never Closer’. Expect sunken, serene guitar pop. Plus The Unfortunates and Duncan Brown. 7.30pm-12am. £6 in advance, £7 on the door. http://www.wegottickets.com/ event/295336 http://www.firestationsband.com/
The Mill Voices – Sing for Pleasure & Health The Mill, 7-11 Coppermill Lane E17 7HA Non auditioned adult singing group for anyone who wishes to enjoy the positive effects of singing. 7.30-9pm. £2. Marina TheMillVoices@hotmail.com East London Brass band Christmas concert Trinity United Reform Church 58 Orford Road E17 9QL (entrance in West Avenue) A free, festive concert for christmas from a championship section brass band. No booking necessary. 8-10pm. FREE but donations welcome. janetdawe@hotmail.com http://www.east-london-brass.co.uk Jazz and Soul in Highams Park Upstairs at The County Arms, 420 Hale End Road, Highams Park E4 9PB Shelley T and The MPG’S play classic jazz, soul and Motown. 9-11pm. £5. Shelley 07903 271877 shelley@alphabeck.co.uk Red Imp Comedy Club Christmas Special with Gina Yashere and Ian Moore Ye Olde Rose & Crown Theatre Pub, 53 Hoe St E17 4SA Local lass Gina does a one-off Spring tour warm up/work in progress set supported by laconic Mod Ian Moore. It’ll be a cracker! Doors 8.30pm, show 9-11pm. £12+10% booking fee. Some tickets available on the door. Susan Murray 0208 509 3880 redimpcomedy@gmail.com http://www.redimpcomedy.com/
Friday 5 Bumps and Babies Ye Olde Rose & Crown, 53 Hoe Street E17 4SA A monthly meet up for new mums and mums to be. A great chance to make new friends whilst eating cake! 10.30-12.30pm. FREE. Sue Lopez 07947 455370 Susana.lopez@cancer.org.uk
Mummy Look! WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH Story-telling, book reading picnic open to parents with young children, bring your own food. Part of the 10 day residency of Walthamstow Performing Arts Collective. 11am-12pm. FREE. Carla Cruz & Layla Rosa layla@shunt.co.uk http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Cymagick WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH Mark Wagner presents the vibratory phenomena of Cymatics - salt and water vibrating and making magical patterns to musical drones and wavelengths. 6-6.30pm. FREE. Khaled Hakim arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Gay Meet-up The Castle Pub, 15 Grosvenor Rise East E17 9LB Eat, drink & be merry in this festive period with like minded people. 6.3011pm. FREE. Jean-Francois 07831 782200 jeanfrancoisdor@gmail.com http://www.meetup.com/ Walthamstow-Gay-Meetup/ Artists’ Dinner WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH For artists and non-artists to share stories of your art. Bring a dish and an example of your work. Please RSVP as seats are limited. 7-8.30pm. FREE. Layla Rosa 07810 393523 layla@shunt.co.uk http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Record Roulette Wild Card Brewery, Unit 7, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street E17 9HQ DJ’s Tom Gold & Harry Palmer play extraordinary vinyl to a friendly, good time crowd. Alternative soul/funk/jazz, unexpected covers, psyche, beat, punk, old school, craft beers, dancing & more. The festive season starts here! 7pm-1am. FREE.
E17 Designers Winter Markets Hoe Street Central, Hoe St E17 4RT Details as Thursday 4
kid friendly
2 The E List makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. Please confirm with the venue before setting out.
FOOD & DRINK
GARDENING
Happy Xmas (War is Over) Cafe on 4, Waltham Forest College, Forest Road E17 4JB Celebrate a century of British song from 1914 to 2014 including the commemoration of WWI and WW2 with the College Amateur Operatic Society. Expect a singalong. 7.30-10.15pm. FREE. Call Thelma Vincent for full ticket information 020 8989 4529 damedoreen@yahoo.co.uk http://www.collegeoperatic.co.uk Robbie The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Road E17 5RG Let the fabulous Robbie croon your cares away. 8-11pm. FREE. events@the-wo.co.uk http://www.the-wo.co.uk Music of the Spheres WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH Cymatics by Mark Wagner using vibratory phenomena and sound manipulation, and Sufi music and energizing meditative practices led by Khaled Hakim. 9-10.30pm. FREE. arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk E17 Designers Winter Markets Hoe Street Central, Hoe Street E17 4RT Details as Thursday 4 Events marked
HISTORY
Saturday 6 Blackhorse Market Blackhorse Workshop, 1-2 Sutherland Road Path, E17 6BX A monthly street food and makers’ market with design and craft and great activities for kids. 10am-4pm. FREE. Harriet Warden 02085311612 info@blackhorseworkshop.co.uk http://www.blackhorseworkshop.co.uk/ market Christmas Bizarre Tabletop Sale Crest Charity Shop, 55 High Street E17 7AD Arts & crafts, bric-a-brac and Christmas gifts. Mulled wine and mince pies available. All proceeds to charity. Book (& bring) a table for small donation. 10am-4pm. FREE. Tommy Anderson 07506 733392 The Mill Winter Fair The Mill, 7-11 Coppermill Lane E17 7HA Craft stalls, winter woollies, homemade cakes, spicy apple juice, face painting and sparkling seasonal sounds. Celebrate Tree Dressing Day and make traditional tree decorations: German stars and Swedish hearts. 2-5pm. FREE. 020 8521 3211 info@themill-coppermill.org http://themill-coppermill.org/
kid friendly
MUSIC
SHOPPING
Christmas Cafe and Sale Baptist Church, 4 Greenleaf Road E17 6QQ Craft and gift sale, Christmas cafe, children’s activities and a life-size Nativity Scene to view. 10am-1pm. Chequers Christmas Arts Fair The Chequers, 145 High Street E17 7BX Artists, designers, illustrators selling their wares. 1-7pm WVRA Monthly Gardening Day Meet at Village Square on corner of Orford and Eden Roads Cutting back bushes and plants in flowerbeds around the Village. Bring gloves, loppers and secateurs if you have them and wear sturdy shoes/ boots. All other equipment will be provided. 10.30am-1.30pm. FREE. Helen Lerner 0781 404 2499 or helen@walthamstowvillage.net Voice Workshop – Voice workout for Stage & Public Speaking WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street E17 4PH Modelled on an actor’s preperformance warm-ups this workshop covers warm-ups, games and exercises to get your voice and speech firing on all cylinders. 12.30-1.30pm. FREE. Richard Hollingworth 07810 393523 info@veryvocab.co.uk http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk
COMEDY/THEATRE
Elves’ Workshops Various venues: Hale End Library, Castle Avenue, Highams Park E4 9QD Higham Hill Library, North Countess Road E17 5HS Walthamstow Central Library, High Street E17 7JN Wood Street Library, Forest Road E17 4AA Prepare for Santa’s arrival by creating your own Christmas cards and decorations in these festive workshops for ages 4-11. 2-3pm. FREE. Angela Thompson 020 849 68205 angela.thompson@walthamforest.gov.uk http://www.wflibraries.eventbrite.com Film Cafe St Mary’s Church, Church End E17 9NP A family Christmas film event for all ages with free refreshments. All invited to enjoy the fun! 4-6pm. FREE Liz Maragh 020 8520 1430 enquiries@walthamstowchurch.org.uk http://www.walthamstowchurch.org.uk/ St_Marys.html . Sh!ver The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Road E17 5RG Fabulous band, playing a heady mix of covers and originals. They always raise the roof and bring the house down! 9-11pm. FREE. events@the-wo.co.uk http://www.the-wo.co.uk
64-66 Brooksby’s Walk, Homerton, London, E9 6DA Tuesday - Friday : 6-10pm | Saturday:12-3pm & 6-10pm | Sunday:12-4pm | Monday: Closed
Reservations: 02089866242
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ART
BOOKS
CRAFTS
Colour Brings People Together – Colour naming and colour matching workshop WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH A drop in, family friendly workshop on the art and science of colour. Aims to present the misunderstanding involved in verbal communication within and between cultures. 12-4pm. FREE. Dimitris Mylonas & Silvia Sampons arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk
Saturday 6 continued Mcguffin’s Film & Tv Quiz Upstairs at Ye Olde Rose & Crown, 53 Hoe Street E17 4SA There will be six rounds of questions and teams may consist of up to six players. First prize £50 cash, £20 for second plus raffle. All welcome. 8.30pm. Price £1.50 per person. http://mcguffinfilmsociety.wordpress.com
Sunday 7 Lea Bridge Conservation Volunteers Meet at 1a Connaught Close, Lea Bridge Rd (Opposite Lee Valley Riding Centre). Practical and fun conservation activities. Tools, training, tea & biscuits provided. No experience required. Wear suitable clothing & stout footwear. Bring your own lunch. 9.30am-4.30pm. FREE. 07757 766950, or info@lbcv.org.uk. www.lbcv.org.uk Christmas Bizarre Tabletop Sale Crest Charity Shop, 55 High Street E17 7AD Details as Sat 6 E17 Designers Winter Markets Hoe Street Central, Hoe St E17 4RT Details as Thursday 4 except different times 11-5pm Jump Rope WPAC@Walthamstow Town Square, Town Square E17 7JN Interactive performance for the public space inspired by the children’s game jump rope. 11-12.30pm. FREE. Carla Cruz 07538881860 carlabarroscruz@gmail.com http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk 16mm film screening WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH Hang out with mechanical projectors and DIY imagery, a playful time spent with heating lights and noisy clogs. Bring your own film. 6-8pm. FREE. Olivier Rodriguez arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk
Events marked
kid friendly
Christmas Carols at The Farmers’ Market Farmers Market, Walthamstow High Street/The Town Square Enjoy Waltham Forest Community Choir’s Christmas carols while shopping at The Farmers’ Market. FREE but with a collection for RNIB Christmas Carol Appeal. 1-2pm. 07954 740745 info@singwithus.net http://www.singwithus.net The Musical Aquarium Ye Olde Rose & Crown Theatre Pub, 53 Hoe Street E17 4SA Jerome & Lindsay will be diving into the tank and playing their eclectic brand of music for your Sunday lunchtime listening pleasure! 1-4pm. FREE. Jerome Anderson 07931507760 jerome@jeromelanderson.com http://www.jeromelanderson.com/ Soundscaping WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street E17 4PH A workshop to collaboratively collect sound recordings from the local acoustic ecology. Participants are encouraged to bring audio recording equipment and outdoor clothing. 2-6pm. FREE. Andi Studer arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Danny George Wilson with Chris Clarke & Paul Lush / Wes McGhee & John Gordon / Starry Eyed & Laughing What’s Cookin’ @ Leytonstone Ex-servicemens Club, 2 Harvey Road E11 3DB Country soul, Tex-Mex and HonkyTonk plus 12-string jangle. 4-10pm. FREE with a collection. Stephen Ferguson 07904 210218 ramblinsteve@whatscookin.co.uk http://whatscookin.co.uk Walthamstow Folk presents Tony Kendal Ye Olde Rose & Crown, 53 Hoe Street E17 4SA Tony “The Essex Man” has been a personality, performer, journalist, collector and champion of local music for many years. Tonight he’ll be focusing on the folk music he’s found in Essex and Walthamstow. 7.3010.30pm. £7/£5 (conc) Walthamstow Folk 07746 612 607 info@walthamstowfolk.co.uk http://www.walthamstowfolk.co.uk
DANCE/FITNESS
Monday 8 Save Lea Marshes meeting Meet at Hare and Hounds, 278 Lea Bridge Road E10 7LD A group campaigning to ensure that all the Lower Lea Valley marshes remain open and green. 9.30am-4.30pm. saveleytonmarsh@hotmail.co.uk or www.saveleamarshes.org.uk . Books & Barks Walthamstow Central Library, High Street E17 7JN Once upon a woof… Join us as we welcome Dogs’ Trust who will be leading a storytime and activity session for families on their favourite furry subject – dogs! And we hope Fudge the dog will join us. Suitable for 4-10 year olds. 4-5pm. FREE. Angela Thompson 02084968205 angela.thompson@walthamforest.gov.uk http://www.wflibraries.eventbrite.com Waltham Forest Community Choir St Mary’s Church, Church Hill E17 9RJ A friendly choir with a wide-ranging repertoire, from Faure to Folk via Gospel, African and Pop Classics. New members welcome anytime. No audition required. 7.30-9.30pm. £5 (payable termly £50). 07954 740745 www.singwithus.net membership@singwithus.net Stowtellers St Mary’s Welcome Centre, 8 Church End E17 9RJ This month we will have a Storyround, come and tell a tale, share a song or a ballad. Relaxed and informal setting for sharing traditional stories. All welcome, to listen or tell. 7.30-9.30pm. £3/£2. 07891 724 771 stowtellers@yahoo.co.uk
Tuesday 9 Christmas Pop-Up Shop Hoe Street Central, Hoe St E17 4RT Menagerie Makes will be selling delightful animal themed gifts, homewares, accessories and showcasing Beast17; Bella Quail’s unique re-loved furniture and artisan crafts. 10am-7pm Morag 07905 164663 morag99@hotmail.com http://www.menageriemakes.com Craft Kit Assembly Social Significant Seams, 131 Wood St E17 3LX Join us for a cup of tea and help us make up craft kits in our relaxed community space. 1-3pm. FREE. admin@significantseams.org.uk http://www.significantseams.org.uk Club Mellow 18-30s Men’s Group ELOP Centre, 56-60 Grove Road Walthamstow E17 9BN 18-30 Men’s Night is for gay, bisexual or trans* men who have sex with men aged 18-30yrs to meet up with other guys their age in a friendly, supportive environment. 7-9.30pm. £2. 020 8509 3898 info@elop.org
FAMILY
FILM
Victorian Christmas at Vestry Vestry House Museum, Vestry Road E17 9NH Special late opening to co-incide with the Village Residents’ carol singing event. Children can collect a traditional gift from Santa Claus; all the family can make festive lanterns and enjoy Victorian goodies. 3.30-7.30pm. FREE, £3 for Santa Claus gift. 020 8496 4391 vhm.enquiries@walthamforest.gov.uk http://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/ pages/services/vhm.aspx Science Museum presents The Greatest Hits Show Hale End Library, Castle Avenue, Highams Park E4 9QD Superbrains from the Science Museum bring to you their favourite demos, all packed into one explosive show for all ages! From rockets to ‘magic’ tricks, from instant ice cream to earth-shaking bangs, this is science at its most entertaining! 4-4.45pm. FREE. 020 8496 3000 www.wflibraries.eventbrite.com Christmas Carols Village Square on corner of Orford and Eden Roads Mulled wine, mince pies, carols around the christmas tree accompanied by East London Brass. Wrap up warm and bring lanterns. Carol sheets available. 7-8.30pm. FREE with a collection.
Wednesday 10 Paper Marbling WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH Make your own Christmas wrapping paper and learn a fun painting technique. For children 5+. 4-5pm. Carla Cruz 07538881860 carlabarroscruz@gmail.com http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Workshop: Received Pronunciation WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street E17 4PH This session will take at look at some common obstacles to clear articulation and explore how to overcome them. 7-8pm. FREE Richard Hollingworth 07810393523 info@veryvocab.co.uk http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk The Curst Sons / TG Elias What’s Cookin’ @ Leytonstone Ex-servicemens Club, 2 Harvey Road E11 3DB A gallon of bluegrass, a quart of the blues, a pinch of rockabilly, and a dash of hell fire from The Curst Sons. 8.3011pm. FREE with a collection. Stephen Ferguson 07904 210218 ramblinsteve@whatscookin.co.uk http://whatscookin.co.uk
4 The E List makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. Please confirm with the venue before setting out.
FOOD & DRINK
GARDENING
Thursday 11 Creative Kids: Making Music William Morris Gallery, Forest Road E17 4PP Play, make and get hands on with Creative Kids, a regular session for under-5s. This month, create homemade instruments and look at music in Pre-Raphaelite paintings. Booking essential. 10-11.30am, repeated 1-2.30pm. FREE. 020 8496 4390 wmg.bookings@walthamforest.gov.uk Mummy Look! WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street E17 4PH Details as Friday 5 Circuit bending WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street E17 4PH Open circuit bending workshop. Participants are encouraged to bring along music toys and other devices for customization. 4-8pm. FREE. Olivier Rodriguez arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Late night shopping at 39 Orford Road 39 Orford Rd E17 9NL Details as Thursday 4 Waltham Forest Music School Christmas Concert St Saviours Church, 210 Markhouse Rd, E17 8EP Christmas carol concert. 7-8.30pm. £5/£3 (children/conc). music.service@walthamforest.gov.uk Friends’ Talk: Ernest Gimson and William Morris William Morris Gallery, Forest Road E17 4PP Arts and Crafts authority Mary Greensted discusses the work of Ernest Gimson, one of the movement’s most influential architect-designers. Open to Friends of the William Morris Gallery only. To join visit www. friendsofthewmg.org.uk. 7.309.30pm. £5. roger.huddle@ntlworld.com
Friday 12 Stow Baby Film Lounge presents Northern Soul (2014, Cert 15) Orford House Social Club, 73 Orford Road E17 9QR Set in 1974, an authentic and uplifting tale of two friends whose horizons are opened up by the discovery of black American soul music. Doors open: 11.15am, Film 11.45am, Close 1.45pm Tickets: £6.50/£5 (conc) Tickets: www.stowfilmlounge.com or on the door if not sold out. 07910 643987
Events marked
kid friendly
HISTORY
MUSIC
SHOPPING
All Together Now (Family Discovery Day) WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street E17 4PH A journey through the cultural past of Walthamstow with Philippa Buxton. Re-discover the wonders of Walthamstow’s musical heritage through song, stories, make believe and craft. 2-5.30pm. Bookings via pippajwright@gmail.com http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Stow Film Lounge presents The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975, Cert 15) Orford House Social Club, 73 Orford Road E17 9QR Our collaboration with Vintage Cabaraoke continues with this classic cult musical film The Rocky Horror Picture Show (winner of our recent audience vote). Following the screening DJ Slick Nick hosts karaoke with songs from musicals to allow you to be part of the entertainment yourselves. Doors open: 7.15pm, Film 8pm, DJ/Karaoke & late bar, Close 12am. Tickets: £12 (film, DJ & karaoke), £5 (DJ & karaoke only) Pre-book at www.stowfilmlounge.com or on the door if not sold out. 07910 643987 Mind Yer Hat Charity Fundraiser The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Road E17 5RG An evening of music and hat-making to raise funds for MIND. Music from Andrew Clarke, Lloyd Allen & The Healing plus DJ and miliner Red Sarah. 7-11pm. £4. events@the-wo.co.uk http://www.the-wo.co.uk Mirror Mic’s open mic night The Hornbeam Café, 458 Hoe Street E17 9AH The Mirror Mic team hosts an open mic night. Experience a variety of talent from music to comedy and cheer on some raw talent! Well-behaved kids welcome until 9pm if accompanied by an adult. 7.30-11.30pm. FREE. andy@mirror-mic.com 07940 260558
Saturday 13 Family Christmas Decorations Community Room, Aveling Centre, Lloyd Park E17 5EQ Come along to make natural and recycled Christmas decorations with your family with The Conservation Volunteers. Drop-in 10am-1pm. FREE. Rachel Hoyes r.hoyes@tcv.org.uk 07787 193981 Festive Herbals: A Winter Marsh Walk Meet in front of The Mill, 7-11 Coppermill Lane E17 7HA Come walk the marshes to seek out what rooty medicinal goodness is lying low in the earth, share knowledge of winter plant medicine remedies for the chills and flu. 10-11.30am. FREE. For info & to book a place contact Rasheeqa 07784 506 494 or rasheeqa@hedgeherbs.org.uk
COMEDY/THEATRE
Open Sundays 7th, 14th, 21st December for that unique Xmas gift
25 UNIQUE SHOPS
Wool & Knitting Stockist • Vintage Clothes to Buy & Rent • Ladies Fashion • Bespoke Jewellery • Watch Repairs • Spiritual Health • Art & Picture Framing • Cake and Cake Accessories • Ornaments, Lighting, Homeware, Blinds and Shutters • Antique & Artefacts • Collectors Toys • Records, DVDs, CDs, Videos • Football Memorabilia • Café
98-100 Wood Street, Walthamstow Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am - 5.30pm @woodstreetmarke
facebook.com/WoodStreetIndoorMarket
Visit our BRAND NEW website
www.woodstreetindoormarket.co.uk Stow Kids Film Lounge presents Disney’s Pinocchio (1940, Cert U) Orford House Social Club, 73 Orford Road E17 9QR Classic Disney animation about Geppetto’s wooden puppet boy Pinocchio who comes to life and his friend Jiminy Cricket. Doors open: 10.30am, Activity Session, Film 11am, Close 1pm. Tickets: £5.50 child, £11 child party package, £4 acc adult, under 2’s free Tickets: www.stowfilmlounge.com or on the door if not sold out. 07910 643987 Ye Olde Christmas Fayre Wood Street Plaza, Wood Street E17 3HX Seasonal stalls, Santa’s grotto, festive music and entertainment for all the family. 12-4pm. FREE. graham@woodstsnt.co.uk http://woodstreetfirst.org/ Christmas Pop-Up Shop Hoe Street Central, Hoe Street E17 4RT Late night shopping, mulled wine and mince pies. 10am-9pm Details as Tuesday 9 Christmas Bizarre Tabletop Sale Crest Charity Shop, 55 High Street E17 7AD Details as Sat 6
All Together Now - Song & Storytelling WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH A new musical Heritage Project where members of the community are welcomed to come together for a good old knees up and natter, sharing memories and music. 11am-4pm. FREE. Philippa Buxton arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Look more closely at the gaps WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH Using the local shopping street as a site of exploration, Sadie will assist passersby in intervening and inspecting. Examine the ‘stuff’ that makes up Hoe Street through locally sourced poundshop DIY materials. 11am-4pm. FREE. Sadie Edginton arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Santa’s Workshop Wood Street Plaza, Wood Street E17 3HX Join us for some free crafty Christmas fun at the Wood Street Christmas festival. 12-4pm. FREE. admin@significantseams.org.uk http://www.significantseams.org.u
FREE listings are available for events under £16, visit www.theelist.co.uk and select “List your event”. To advertise your business contact ads@theelist.co.uk 5
ART
BOOKS
CRAFTS
DANCE/FITNESS
Saturday 13 continued
Sunday 14
Tuesday 16
Eat or Heat Christmas Fair St Mary’s Welcome Centre, 8 Church End E17 9RJ Vintage lounge, homewares, clothing and gourmet food market. 12-6pm. E17london@sky.com
Christmas Bizarre Tabletop Sale Crest Charity Shop, 55 High Street E17 7AD Details as Sat 6
Club Mellow 30+ Men’s Group ELOP Centre, 56-60 Grove Road Walthamstow E17 9BN Meeting for gay, bisexual or trans* men who have sex with men aged 30yrs & over who want to meet up with others in a friendly, supportive environment away from the scene. 7-9.30pm. £2. 020 8509 3898 info@elop.org
Something for the Weekend! (Christmas Style) Wild Card Brewery Unit 7, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street E17 9HQ DJ Jerome Anderson at Walthamstow’s very own Wild Card Brewery, playing a christmas-style musical mash-up for your listening pleasure. 7-11pm. FREE. 07931 507760 jerome@jeromelanderson.com http://www.jeromelanderson.com/ Waltham Forest Youth Orchestra Concert St John’s Church, Church Lane, High Rd Leytonstone E11 1HH 7-8.30pm. £5. music.service@walthamforest.gov.uk Natural Voices Christmas Concert St Mary’s Church, Church End E17 9NP Free concert for the community with 60 strong choir plus youth choirs an alternative Christmas sing up! 7-8pm. Lizzy Renihan 07950-204338 lizzyrenihan@hotmail.com http://www.naturalvoices.co.uk Performance of improvised music WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH Tom Wheatley and Andrew Lisle engage in (un-)sound praxis with the potential to delight, though they will not gauge their performance by it. 8-11pm. FREE. Tom Wheatley arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Abba Again The Victoria, 188 Hoe Street E17 4QH Live Abba tribute band. 9pm. £8. Katie Roberts 07714 092611 juliajubilada@gmail.com Bob Collum & The Welfare Mothers The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Road E17 5RG The ever-popular and always superb Bob Collum returns with more supreme urban country songwriting. 9-11pm. FREE. events@the-wo.co.uk http://www.the-wo.co.uk Jazz and Soul Night Upstairs at The County Arms, 420 Hale End Road, Highams Park E4 9PB Shelley T and The MPG’S play jazz, soul and Motown. 9-11pm. £5. Shelley 07903271877 shelley@alphabeck.co.uk
Events marked
kid friendly
Walthamstow Family Bike Club Meet outside the Ancient House Orford Rd/Church Lane junction, E17 A relaxed and sociable ride around open spaces and cafes in and around Waltham Forest. 1-5pm. FREE Paul 020 8520 0648 paul.gasson@gmail.com. Christmas crafts Vestry House Museum, Vestry Road E17 9NH Make sparkly gift boxes inspired by Victorian keepsake boxes for your nearest and dearest. With artist Sba Shaikh. Just drop in. 1.30-4pm. FREE. 020 8496 4391 vhm.enquiries@walthamforest.gov.uk A Catalogue of Sensibilities WPAC @ 38 Hoe Street, E17 4PH Aims to draw together lesser celebrated but highly prevalent feelings such as resigned ennui, polite disdain and burning embarrassment. It will be a heroic attempt at unpicking and reconstituting language and variations in interpersonal affect. 2-5pm. FREE. Neela Basu arts.walthamstow@cenatus.org http://www.arts-walthamstow.org.uk Traditional Carols Christ Church Leyton, 73 Francis Road, E10 6PL A traditional carol service with mince pies. Open to all. 6.30-7.30pm 020 8539 0193 http://www.christchurchleyton.org.uk Christmas Party at Walthamstow Folk Ye Olde Rose & Crown, 53 Hoe Street E17 4SA Our traditional Christmas singaround! Dust off your party pieces and if you’re really lucky there might even be a mince pie or two as well!. 7.30-10.30pm. FREE 07746 612 607 info@walthamstowfolk.co.uk http://www.walthamstowfolk.co.uk
Monday 15 Carol Singing at The Mall The Mall Walthamstow, 45 Selborne Walk E17 7JR Join us for some festive carol singing led by children from local schools. Raising money for the Mayor’s Charity supporting youth focused community projects in the borough. 10am-12.30pm. FREE but please give generously. Christmas Choir at the WO The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Road E17 5RG The Warrant Officer’s resident choir will be singing Christmas songs old and new. Come along, sing-a-long or just relax and enjoy. 8-9pm. FREE. Laura Forbes singatthewo@gmail.com
Estilo Y Sabor Latin Dance Christmas Party Chingford Rugby Club, Lea Valley Playing Fields, Waltham Way, E4 8AQ We’ve got Kizomba at 7.30pm, Bachata at 8pm, Salsa at 8.45pm with guest teacher Pierre Henry and club from 9.30. Raffle giveaway and a show by Andreas and Julia. 7.30-12pm. £10. Andreas 07804 778373
Wednesday 17 E17 Large Ensemble Orford Road Social Club, Orford Road E17 The barnstorming supergroup return with more exciting new music to round off the year. Bring your party hats! 8.3010.30pm. £10/£7 (conc). 07930 544 312 www.e17jazz.com/whatson/ Hanukkah Celebration Council Chambers, Town Hall, Forest Road E17 4JF To celebrate the Jewish Festival of Light we will light the 2nd candle on the Hanukiah. Come along with family and friends to enjoy live entertainment including klezmer music and traditional refreshments. 5.45-9pm. FREE but registration required. 020 8496 3589 or email arts&events@walthamforest.gov.uk with your full name, address, email address and telephone number. The Coal Porters / Anna Lucas What’s Cookin’ @ Leytonstone Ex-servicemens Club, 2 Harvey Road E11 3DB Lead by ex-Long Ryder, Sid Griffin’s Coal Porters are one of the best acoustic bluegrass bands in the UK 8.30-11pm. FREE with a collection. Stephen Ferguson 07904 210218 ramblinsteve@whatscookin.co.uk http://whatscookin.co.uk
Thursday 18 Late night shopping at 39 Orford Road 39 Orford Rd E17 9NL Details as Thursday 4 Highams Park Live The County Arms, 420 Hale End Road, Highams Park E4 9PB Live music, poetry and live literature. A platform for songwriters, poets and storytellers. Drop us a line if you’d like to perform. 7-11pm. FREE. Nigel Mear 07730 985615 info@highamsparklive.co.uk http://www.highamsparklive.co.uk
FAMILY
FILM
Darling Daisy Trinity United Reform Church, 58 Orford Road E17 9QL (entrance in West Avenue) Walthamstow Historical Society’s Neil Houghton talks about Frances Evelyn Maynard, wife of the Earl of Warwick, mistress of the Prince of Wales and Labour candidate in the 1924 General Election. 7.30-9pm. £1.50, members FREE. walthamstowwalks@mz48.myzen.co.uk www.walthamstowhistoricalsociety.org.uk Stow Film Lounge presents Study (2012) Orford House Social Club, 73 Orford Road E17 9QR A low-budget indie psychological thriller which follows a psychology student in the last week before his final exam, discovering his life and exploring his mind. Doors open: 7.45pm, Film 8.30pm, late bar until 12am. Tickets: £8.50/£6.50 (conc), ticket + pizza from £14 (pre-book only) Tickets: www.stowfilmlounge.com or on the door if not sold out. 07910 643987 Los Otros at The Vic The Victoria, 188 Hoe Street E17 4QH Enjoy mellow music and a quiet conversation or get up and dance with Los Otros and guests at The Victoria. 9-11pm. FREE. Julia Clarke 07801756863 juliajubilada@gmail.com http://www.losotros.co.uk
Friday 19 Poet’s Corner Christmas Carols Milton Road area, E17 4SR Santa, pressies, cakes and ginger beer. Bring a penguin! 6.30-9pm. FREE. Barry 07773 028681 barry.coidan@ntlworld.com http://milimpicsstreetparty.wordpress.com Stow Film Lounge presents It’s A Wonderful Life (1946, Cert U) Orford House Social Club, 73 Orford Road E17 9QR Frank Capra’s classic bittersweet comedy/drama starring James Stewart. On Christmas Eve an angel called Clarence helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life would have been like if he never existed. Doors open: 7.45pm, Film 8.30pm, late bar until 12am. Tickets: £8.50/£6.50 (conc), ticket + pizza from £14 (pre-book only) Tickets: www.stowfilmlounge.com or on the door if not sold out. 07910 643987
Saturday 20 The Higham Flyers The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Rd E17 5RG A mixture of covers and originals in their inimitable keyboard and harmony driven soul/blues groove. 9-11pm. FREE. events@the-wo.co.uk http://www.the-wo.co.uk
6 The E List makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. Please confirm with the venue before setting out.
FOOD & DRINK
GARDENING
Christmas Bizarre Tabletop Sale Crest Charity Shop, 55 High Street E17 7AD Details as Sat 6 Mini Magic Carpets – Drama & Making for 3-6yrs The Mill, 7-11 Coppermill Lane E17 7HA Make your own mini magic carpet, and then see where it will take us! Adventures and stories with Sarah from Grow Your Own Theatre. 10-10.50am. £6 each child or £10 for two. Sarah 07740343240 sarah@gyot.org.uk http://www.gyot.org.uk Stow Kids Film Lounge presents Frozen Sing-A-Long (2013, Cert PG) Orford House Social Club, 73 Orford Road E17 9QR When a princess with the power to turn things into ice curses her home an infinite winter, her sister Anna teams up with a mountain man, his playful reindeer and a snowman to change the weather condition. Doors open: 10.30am, Activity Session, Film 11am, Close 1pm. Tickets: £5.50 child, £11 child party package, £4 acc adult, under 2’s free Tickets: www.stowfilmlounge.com or on the door if not sold out. 07910 643987 Little George Sueref What’s Cookin’ @ Leytonstone Exservicemens Club, 2 Harvey Road E11 3DB Grit ‘n’ groove gumbo of wailin’ Southern fried soul and down-home Chicago blues from one of the UK’s finest and unusual blues singers. 8.3011.30pm. FREE with a collection. Stephen Ferguson 07904 210218 ramblinsteve@whatscookin.co.uk http://whatscookin.co.uk
Sunday 21 Christmas Pop-Up Shop Hoe Street Central, Hoe Street E17 4RT Late night shopping, mulled wine and mince pies. 10am-9pm Details as Tuesday 9 Christmas Bizarre Tabletop Sale Crest Charity Shop, 55 High Street E17 7AD Details as Sat 6 All Age Carols St Mary’s Welcome Centre, 8 Church End E17 9RJ All age worship at the start of Christmas. 10.30am-12pm. FREE. Festive Singalong Lloyd Park, Forest Road E17 4PP Join the Friends of Lloyd Park for an afternoon of festive cheer, including music from the East London Brass band, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and homemade bakes. In partnership with the William Morris Gallery. 2-4pm. FREE. folpe17@gmail.com www.friendsoflloydpark.org.uk Events marked
kid friendly
HISTORY
MUSIC
SHOPPING
Carols by Candlelight Highams Park Baptist Church, Cavendish Road,, Highams Park, E4 9NG From 6pm. 020 8531 0620 contact@hpbc.co.uk
COMEDY/THEATRE Starring
CLIVE ROWE SHARON D CLARKE SUSIE McKENNA KAT B Written & Directed by
SUSIE McKENNA
Traditional Carols Christ Church Leyton, 73 Francis Road, E10 6PL Details as Sunday 14
Music by
STEVEN EDIS
Carols by Candlelight Service Central Baptist Church, 101a Orford Road E17 9QR Candlelit carol service followed by seasonal refreshments. Everyone welcome. 6.30-7.30pm. FREE. Pastor Robert Jeffery 020 8503 7577 Central101@btconect.com http://www.central-baptist-church.org.uk The Acid Drops The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Rd E17 5RG Jazz-Funk regulars bring their unique blend of jazz, funk and psych to The WO. 8-10.30pm. FREE. events@the-wo.co.uk http://www.the-wo.co.uk
Wednesday 24 Christingle Service St Mary’s Welcome Centre, 8 Church End E17 9RJ Special candlelit event to begin your Christmas. 3-4pm for under 5’s, 5-6pm for over 5s. FREE. Liz Maragh 020 8520 1430 enquiries@walthamstowchurch.org.uk Heaven’s music on Christmas Eve St Mary’s Welcome Centre, 8 Church End E17 9RJ Traditional seasonal music, readings and poetry with choir items. A quieter, more reflective event with invited guest performers. 7.15-8.15pm. FREE. Liz Maragh 020 8520 1430 enquiries@walthamstowchurch.org.uk Midnight Carol Service Leytonstone United Free Church, 55 Wallwood Road, E11 1AY Sing in Christmas Day at this midnight service. From 11.30pm. 020 8518 7725 http://www.leytonstoneunitedfree.co.uk
Saturday 27 The Healing The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Road E17 5RG Newly expanded (with drums) The Healing always entertain and this will be no exception. 9-11pm. FREE. events@the-wo.co.uk http://www.the-wo.co.uk
Sunday 28 The Bevvy Of Blues Jam The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Road E17 5RG The monthly blues jam returns with house band The Bluetone Groovers providing the platform for a host of special guests. Pick up that harp and come on down. 8-11pm. FREE. events@the-wo.co.uk http://www.the-wo.co.uk
22 Nov – 04 Jan
HACKNEYEMPIRE.CO.UK | 020 8985 2424 Sponsored by
Wednesday 31 For up-to-date New Year’s Eve events please visit www.theelist.co.uk Wild Card New Years Eve Party Wild Card Brewery, Unit 7, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street E17 9HQ Celebrate 2015 at the brewery bar, live music, street food, great beer and more. Open until late. FREE entry, no booking required. http://www.wildcardbrewery.co.uk/ New Year’s Eve Disco The Village Pub, 31 Orford Road E17 9NL See in the New Year with our infamous disco. Tickets £5. 0208 521 4398 http://village-walthamstow.com/
Until 4 January Rossetti’s Obsession: Images of Jane Morris William Morris Gallery, Forest Road E17 4PP Exhibition of Rossetti drawings, photographs and pastel studies of Jane Morris. Wed-Sun 10am-5pm. FREE. 020 8496 4390 wmg.enquiries@walthamforest.gov.uk http://www.wmgallery.org.uk/
The East London
Sausage Co.
Every week/Whole month Until 25 January Tangled Yarns William Morris Gallery, Forest Road E17 4PP Alke Schmidt’s art explores the politics and morality of the textile industry, from the 18th century to the present day. Wed-Sun 10am-5pm. FREE. 020 8496 4390 wmg.enquiries@walthamforest.gov.uk http://www.wmgallery.org.uk/
FREE listings are available for events under £16, visit www.theelist.co.uk and select “List your event”.
Sensational
Sausages
57 Orford Rd E17 9NJ Tue-Fri: 08.30-19.00
Sat: 08.30-17.30 Sun: 10.00-14.00
To advertise your business contact ads@theelist.co.uk 7
ART
BOOKS
CRAFTS
DANCE
FAMILY
FILM
GARDENING
HISTORY
MUSIC
FOOD
SHOPPING
THEATRE
Until 7 February Fun Palace Retrospective! The Mill, 7-11 Coppermill Lane E17 7HA Your memories and drawings of Walthamstow plus photographs from the Fun Palace Weekend and a film of how we made the Mill Elephant. TuesThurs 10am-7pm. Fri-Sat 10am-6pm. Sun 11am-2pm. FREE. 020 85213211 info@themill-coppermill.org http://www.themill-coppermill.org Art & Illustration in The Deli Cafe The Deli Cafe, 69 Orford Rd E17 9NJ E17 Art Trail artists Eileen Kai Hing Kwan and Ju Kang. Artwork for sale and regularly updated. Open cafe hours 8am-6pm. Until Sunday 4 January except 25, 26 Dec and 1 Jan Christmas Pop-Up Shop Hoe Street Central, Hoe Street E17 4RT Menagerie Makes will be selling delightful animal themed gifts, homewares, accessories and showcasing Beast17; Bella Quail’s unique re-loved furniture and artisan crafts. 10am-7pm and until 9pm on 13th and 21st Dec Morag 07905 164663 morag99@hotmail.com http://menageriemakes.com Until 6 Dec Festive Room39 Sample Sale The Bell, 617 Forest Rd E17 4NE Seasonal Sale of Room39 sampled products alongside our mainline range including cushions, bed linen, ceramics and gifts at discounted prices. 5-10pm. info@room39.co.uk http://Www.room39.co.uk
Events marked
kid friendly
Events marked
kid friendly
Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays Conservation Volunteers Meet opposite Lee Valley Riding Centre, 1a Connaught Close E10 7QS. Help improve your local green spaces through a wide range of activities including; woodland management, habitat creation, pond maintenance and some environmental construction. With practical sessions every day there are plenty of opportunities to join in, meet new people, learn new skills and discover hidden green spaces while improving your health and stamina. No previous experience is required. 9am4.30pm. FREE. Tom Nandi, 07917267573 t.nandi@tcv.org.uk Wednesdays Priory Court Gardening Club Community Centre, 11 Priory Court, Higham Hill, E17 5NB The centre has its very own sustainable food growing garden where we grow everything from tomatoes and beetroot to onions, lettuce and courgettes. We want to encourage people of all ages to enjoy the benefits of growing their own food so if you would like to get involved and join our volunteers to help our project please get in touch! Beginners welcome.. 2.30-4.30pm. FREE. 020 8531 9990 Until 1 March Raids, Rationing and Riots: Waltham Forest and the Great War Vestry House Museum, Vestry Road E17 9NH Exhibition to mark the centenary of WWI, commemorating the impact of the war on the lives of people from Chingford, Walthamstow, Leyton and Leytonstone. Open Wed-Sun 10am5pm. FREE. No need to book. 020 8496 4391 vhm.enquiries@walthamforest.gov.uk
Wednesdays Leyton Technical Quiz Night 265B High Road, Leyton E10 5QN £50 cash prize, bottle of wine for runners-up, spot prizes and cumulative bonus rollover prize too. 8pm. £2 each. 020 8558 4759 http://leytontechnical.com Wednesdays except 24 & 31 Dec Club Mellow Youth Group ELOP Centre, 56-60 Grove Road E17 9BN A space for lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans young people aged 13-21yrs who want to meet up with others in a friendly, supportive environment away from the scene. 6-9pm. £1. 0208 509 3898 or youth@elop.org Thursdays except 25 Dec Club Mellow LGBT Social Group ELOP Centre, 56-60 Grove Road E17 9BN A weekly afternoon social support space for lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans people who want to meet up with others in a friendly, supportive environment. 2.30-4.30pm. £2. 0208 509 3898 or info@elop.org Thursdays except 18 & 25 Dec Club Mellow Baby & Toddler Group ELOP Centre, 56-60 Grove Road E17 9BN A welcoming, inclusive drop in for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans* parents and carers and their babies and toddlers offering opportunity to network and socialise with other LGBT families in a safe, friendly setting. 11am-1pm. £2.50, little ones FREE. 0208 509 3898 or info@elop.org Saturdays except 27 Dec OrganicLea market stall with Transition Leytonstone Between St John’s Church & Matalan, High Road, Leytonstone E11 1HH Details as for the following Hornbeam listing. 10.30am-3pm. http://www.transitionleytonstone.org.uk
Saturdays except 27 Dec OrganicLea market stall The Hornbeam Café, 458 Hoe Street E17 9AH Organic and local sustainably grown fruit, vegetables, homemade bread, jams and preserves. Healthy Start vouchers can be used. 10am-3pm. http://www.organiclea.org.uk/ we-sell-food/our-market-stall/ Mondays except 22 & 29 Dec Organiclea Jamming Sessions The Hornbeam Café, 458 Hoe Street E17 9AH Volunteers will gain skills in creating jams, preserves, chutneys, cordials, flavoured vinegars, oils and perhaps even some fancy kale chips using surplus produce from Organiclea. 2-5pm. FREE but spaces limited. bryonymiddleton@gmail.com Thursdays except 25 Dec Tiny Tempo Hornbeam Centre, 458 Hoe Street E17 9AH Fun introduction to musical conceptsusing singing, instrument playing, listening and dancing! With guitars, ukuleles, and a lot of energy, fun is had by all. 9.30-10.30 for under 18 months, 10.30-11.30 for 18 months and older. £5 for one child, £8 for two. www.hornbeam.org.uk Sundays The Jazz Roast The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Road E17 5RG Every Sunday JB Jazz invite fellow jazzmeisters to sit in on their laid back vibe. The perfect accompaniment to The WO’s excellent Sunday roasts. 1-7pm. FREE. Roast optional, from £7. events@the-wo.co.uk http://www.the-wo.co.uk
8 The E List makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. Please confirm with the venue before setting out.
london’s most vibrant venue For new theatre, Comedy and Cabaret Only 22 minutes from Walthamstow Central to Oxford Circus.
Funz and Gamez
adam riChes
Josie lonG
6 Dec – 4 Jan
8 Dec – 3 Jan
19 – 31 Jan
alternative Christmas Fun For aGes 5+
sirens
Foster’s edinburGh Comedy award winner 2011
stewart lee
3-time Foster’s edinburGh Comedy award nominee
stephen K amos
a rousinG Feminist Chorus For the 21st Century
‘the best Comedian in britain’ mirror
the maestro oF Feel-Good Comedy
2 Dec – 4 Jan
5 – 31 Jan
10 – 21 Mar
tiCKets From £10 - £30 sohotheatre.Com / 020 7478 0100
(at Leicester Square Theatre)
Reg. Charity Number 267234
For all shows visit sohotheatre.Com
ART
BOOKS
Mondays WO Community Choir The Warrant Officer, 318 Higham Hill Road E17 5RG Join our fast growing community choir. Absolutely no auditions. All abilities welcome. Inclusive, informal and fun. Call for more info or come along on the night. 7.30-9pm. £6, first session free. Laura 07813686980 singattheWO@gmail.com
Classes/Courses Tuesdays Significant Seams 131 Wood St E17 3LX admin@significantseams.org.uk http://www.significantseams.org.uk Sew & Tell: ESL with Zelda (term time) Come along and learn English (and sew!) in a friendly environment. 10am-1pm. £3. Kids knitting club Join us for a great after-school activity. 4-5pm. £5. Wednesdays Significant Seams (as above) Stories and sticking Craft activity and story time for toddlers and their adults with Kaye. 10.30-11.30am. £3. Mending club Friendly group sharing the joy of making and making it up when it goes a lil’ wrong! 1-3pm. £3. Kids’ craft club Good citizenship and creative making at our community space on Wood St. 4.30-5.30pm. £5 Thursdays Significant Seams (as above) Supportive Sewing Circle Bring your sewing, knitting or craft project along and join in. 1-3pm. £3. Neighbourly Stitch and Knit (Thursdays & Sat 6 Dec) Come along with your sewing, knitting or craft project and join in. 1-3pm. £3. Alternate Sundays, 7 & 21 Dec Life drawing Hornbeam Centre, 458 Hoe Street E17 9AH Create original art in front of a life model. All materials provided. Advance booking essential. 3-5pm. jonathan.ellis@mac.com or text 07980 713819 Weekly on various days Ukulele Classes Quaker Meeting House, 1a Jewel Road E17 4QU Learn the ukulele or improve your skills with an experienced, professional musician in a fun and relaxed environment. Instruments not provided! Beginners Mondays 8.30pm; Improving beginners Saturday 10.30am; Improvers/Intermediate Weds 7.30pm and Saturday 11.30am £10. Dick Smith 07903 419691 info.banjosmith@gmail.com http://www.banjosmith.co.uk
Events marked
kid friendly
CRAFTS
Tuesdays and Thursdays until 18 December Strung out violin groups for adults Quaker Meeting House, 1a Jewel Road E17 4QU Got a violin in your attic you want to dust down? Fancy learning a new skill? Strung Out is a fun violin group for adult enthusiasts of all levels, with a professional musician. 7-8pm £10. Alison Jones 020 7018 2927 strungout@shapeshifter-productions.com www.shapeshifter-productions.com Mondays & Wednesdays until 17 Dec Five String Banjo Classes Quaker Meeting House, 1a Jewel Road E17 4QU Dick Smith teaches 5-String Banjo classes in 3 finger bluegrass style picking for adults. 6.30-7.30pm. £12.50. 20% discount when booked in advance. Violaine Bailleul 07745 052525 info.banjosmith@gmail.com www.banjosmith.co.uk Mondays until 15 December Waltham Forest Community Choir St Mary’s Church, Church Hill E17 9RJ A friendly choir with a wide-ranging repertoire, from Faure to Folk via Gospel, African and Pop Classics. Open to those living or working in Waltham Forest. New members welcome anytime. No audition required. 7.30-9.30pm. £5 (payable termly £50). 07954 740745 membership@singwithus.net www.singwithus.net Tuesdays until 16 December East Side Jazz Club Tommy Flynn’s, Upstairs at 692 High Road, Leytonstone E11 3AA Weekly modern jazz club. 8.30-11pm. £6 cash on the door only Clive Fenner 02089898129 eastsidejazzclub@gmail.com http://eastsidejazzclub.blogspot.co.uk/ Thursdays The Singing Room Community Choir & Open session Small side hall, St Gabriel’s Family Centre, Havant Rd E17 3JF A local choir for the confident, not so confident and downright petrified! Come along and give us a try. We have fantastic songs to sing. £9 or 10 sessions for £70. First session FREE. 7.30-9.15pm. Anna 07931 372996 or annamusicmakers@gmail.com for further details or just turn up! Tuesdays Baby Massage The Mill, 7-11 Coppermill Lane E17 7HA Stimulate and relax your baby with developmental baby massage. 11.15am-12.15pm. £8 or £40 for six week course. Alex Brandon 07528 385986 alexjanebrandon@gmail.com
DANCE/FITNESS Fridays Come and Sing All Saints Church, Church Avenue, Highams Park E4 9QD Singing songs of inspiration and love for parents and under 5’s. 9.3010.30am. £5. Daytime singing class for adults and elders singing songs of inspiration and love. 11am-12pm. £5. Andrea Encinas 020 8509 7222 andrea@britishgospelarts.com http://comeandsing.com Saturdays E17 Junior Guitar Club Hornbeam Centre, 458 Hoe Street E17 9AH Guitar playing fun for children of all abilities. Ages 7 and upwards. 10am12pm. Different levels & times. Pay £8 for taster session, then £48 for a halfterm of six lessons 30 minutes each. Christian Karlsson mob. 07958 471 083, chris@stunningmusic.com www.stunningmusic.com Saturdays B.I.G. Gospel Choir All Saints Church, Church Avenue, Highams Park E4 9QD Join this friendly and dynamic choir who were recent finalists of Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year 2014. 4.30-6pm. £5 plus annual membership. Andrea Encinas 02085097222 andrea@britishgospelarts.com http://www.britishgospelarts.com Mondays and Thursdays (term time) BONGALONG music, movement and make believe St Gabriel’s Family Centre, Havant Road E17 3JF Fun music sessions using singing, dancing, let’s pretend and wonderful percussion instruments. Sessions for Under 5s and their carers at 10am, 11am, additional session on Mondays at 1.30pm. Sessions for Under 1s at 1.30pm and 2.30pm on Thursdays. £5.25. Booking essential. fiona.bongalong@gmail.com 07811460282 www.bongalong.co.uk Tuesdays and Thursdays Magic Box: Interactive storytelling sessions Mothers Hub, 133 Wood Street, E17 3LX What’s inside the Magic Box today? Join a host of different characters as they lead you on exciting and interactive storytelling adventures...! Coffee and cake included. Drop-in for 2ish- to 5-year olds. Tues 10-11am and 4-5pm, Thurs 10-11am. £4 or £6 for 2 kids Lottie magicboxe17@gmail.com Mondays Yogi J Yoga St Michael & All Angels Church Hall, Northcote Road E17 6PQ Release physical tension and mental stress. Bring a mat or email James to buy one. 7-8pm. £9 or 6 classes for £45 Email James jjcassidy123@aol.com
FAMILY
FILM
Tuesdays Hola Chicos – Spanish for babies and toddlers The Mill, 7-11 Coppermill Lane E17 7HA Spanish sessions introducing babies and toddlers to Spanish through songs, games and stories. 10.15-11am. £5, additional siblings £2.50. Alex Brandon 07528 385986 alexjanebrandon@gmail.com Wednesdays until 17 December Atty’s Musical Steps - Baby Band & Toddler Troupe The Salvation Army, 434 Forest Rd E17 4PY Fun-packed, educational and innovative musical games, movement and sensory props for babies, toddlers and their carers. Toddler Troupe at 9.50am, £5. Baby Band at 10.45am and 11.30am £4.50. Trial class available. Atty Cronin 07939 123 860 atty.cronin@musicalsteps.co.uk Wednesdays Hola Chicos – Spanish for babies and toddlers Mothers Hub, 133 Wood St E17 3LX Sessions introducing babies and toddlers to Spanish through songs, games and stories. Ages 0-5. 10-11am. £5, additional siblings £2.50. Alex Brandon 07528 385986 alexjanebrandon@gmail.com Wednesdays (term-time only) Brownies in Wood Street Peterhouse Community Centre, 122 Forest Rise E17 3PW Brownies is for girls aged 7-10. We meet once a week and do lots of fun activities and games. We also have a variety of trips and weekends away. Please email/call to express interest and find out more. 6.30-8pm. £2. Lottie 0774 0985 479 22ndwalthamstow@gmail.com http://www.girlguiding.org.uk Thursdays (except Nov 6) Club Mellow Baby & Toddler Group ELOP Centre, 56-60 Grove Road Walthamstow E17 9BN A welcoming, inclusive drop-in on Thursdays for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans parents and carers and their babies and toddlers offering opportunity to network and socialise with other LGBT families in a safe, friendly setting. 11am-1pm. £2.50 & kids FREE! 020 8509 3898 or info@elop.org Saturdays E18 Yoga - Kids Class Methodist Church, Winchester Road E4 9JP Yoga class for children aged 2-4 years. Full of fun & games with yoga. Places are limited to 12 so please book with Laura. 9-9.30am. £6. Laura Piercy Farley 07970493521 e18yoga@virginmedia.com http://www.e18yoga.co.uk
10 The E List makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. Please confirm with the venue before setting out.
GARDENING
DICK SMITH
5-STRING BANJO classes in E17
The new term begins January Register now!
07745 052 525
info.banjosmith@gmail.com
HISTORY
UKULELE Classes for adults in E17
FOOD & DRINK
NTS
Trish Gatesman
ALCM, BEd, CERT Ed 07745 052 525
info.banjosmith@gmail.com
Saturdays Dynamic Yoga Drop-in Quaker Meeting House, 1a, Jewel Rd E17 4QU Start your weekend with Sun Salutations and sequential yoga! Energise your body and gain clarity of mind while developing your yoga practice. Not a complete beginners class. 8-9pm. £8. YogaRos 07711042883 yogaros@yahoo.co.uk http://www.yogaros.co.uk
kid friendly
PRESE
in Walthamstow
Fridays until 19 December Atty’s Musical Steps - Baby Band & Toddler Troupe Baptist Church, 4 Greenleaf Road E17 6QQ Fun-packed, educational and innovative musical games, movement and sensory props for 0-4s and their carers. Help your child develop their listening and communication skills. Booking essential. Termly booking, trial class available. 10-10.40am. £4.50 Atty Cronin 07939 123 860 atty.cronin@musicalsteps.co.uk
Events marked
COMEDY/THEATRE
PIANO TEACHER
Saturdays (term-time only) BONGALONG music, movement and make believe St Mary’s Welcome Centre, 8 Church End E17 9RJ Up early on a Saturday morning? Come along to Early Risers-fun, creative music sessions for children Under 5 and their carers; singing, dancing, fab instruments, snacks and a story. Dropin, term-time only. 8.30-9.15am. £10 for 2 children, older siblings £3. fiona.bongalong@gmail.com 07811 460282 www.bongalong.co.uk
Saturdays Advanced Vinyasa Yoga Leyton Yoga, 691 High Road Leyton, First Floor (above USSR) E10 6RA A creative, dynamic yoga class to challenge and inspire experienced yoga practitioners. All classes are drop in; no need to pre-book. 9-10am. £10 or £90 for 10. leytonyoga@gmail.com http://www.leytonyoga.com
SHOPPING
The n term b ew eg Januar ins Registe y r now!
Fridays until 19 December Acting Bugs The Peterhouse Centre, 122 Forest Rise E17 3PW ACTING BUGS drama and storytelling classes for children aged 3 to 4. DIDDY BUGS for the under 3s stimulates the senses through story based sessions. 9.50-11.30am. First class FREE. £7 per session paid half termly, £6.50 per session when paid termly. 50% discount for siblings. Samantha Seager 07903 459497 info@actingbugs.co.uk http://www.actingbugs.co.uk
Saturdays French Classes The Salvation Army, 434 Forest Rd E17 4PY L’Accent, La Petite Ecole de Walthamstow, is a new Saturday French club for children aged 4+. 10am session for non-French speakers and 11am session for French speakers. 10am12pm. £8. Free trial. 20% off for siblings. Sofia 07574044184 sofia.bouceddour@yahoo.fr http://laccent.weebly.com
MUSIC
Mondays Hatha Yoga Drop-In Community Room, Aveling Centre, Lloyd Park E17 4PP Creative and inspiring class. All levels including beginners. Newcomers always very welcome. 8-9.30pm. £7. Please pay at Centre reception. YogaRos 07711042883 yogaros@yahoo.co.uk http://www.yogaros.co.uk Mondays Jive and Lindy Hop Course for Beginners The Trades Hall, 17 Hoe Street E17 4SB (entrance in Tower Hamlets Road) Learn the basic moves to dance 6 count jive to the music of the 1940s and 50s. 7.30-8.30pm. £11.50 or £55 for a six week course. Jerome Anderson 07931 507760 jerome@jeromelanderson.com http://www.jeromelanderson.com/
07909373534 triciaceri@hotmail.com Mondays Clare’s Dance Class United Reformed Church Hall, 58 Orford Road E17 9QL A fun dance class for ladies in the Stow! Learn different dance styles & iconic routines from musicals & pop videos such as Thriller! Beginners welcome. 8.30-9.45pm. £8 drop-in/£6 term rate. Clare Farow 07939 125014 clarefarrow2@gmail.com Mondays Yoga for Healthy Backs Back 2 Balance, 609 Forest Road E17 4PP Small classes to release tension in the neck, shoulders and back. Please wear comfortable clothes and avoid eating a heavy meal 2 hours before class. 7-8pm. £9 or £48 for 6 sessions. Vanessa Brooks-Fisher 07919 595665 yoganessy@gmail.com http://www.yoganess.org Tuesdays Zumba® Fitness with Chloe! Walthamstow School For Girls, Church Hill E17 9RZ An exhilarating dance fitness class in a low pressure atmosphere. Wear low tread supportive trainers and a bring a bottle of water. 7-8pm. £5. Discount for block booking. Chloe Redmond 07903 629 636 Chloe@dancechloe.com www.DanceChloe.com Mondays Jacky’s Fitsteps The Asian Centre, 18a Orford Road E17 9LN Dance fitness to ballroom and latin music. No partner needed. 7.308.30pm. £6 per class, or £20 for 4 classes paid in advance. Jacky Logan 07715 421 349 jacjuke@aol.com http://www.jackysjukebox.co.uk Tuesdays Learn Belly Dancing The Asian Centre, 18a Orford Road E17 9LN Enjoy belly dancing to stay in shape and express your own personal creativity. For all ages. 7-8pm. £5. Sarah 07735 345635
Monthly gigs in Walthamstow 73 Orford Road, E17 9QR
www.e17jazz.com
Tuesdays Yoga Classes Walthamstow Toy Library, 46 Ravenswood Road E17 9LY Wake up with Hatha Flow yoga with an emphasis on the therapeutic benefits of yoga. Please wear comfortable clothes! 7-8pm. £7 or 6 classes for £36. Vanessa Brooks-Fisher 07919 595665 yoganessy@gmail.com http://www.yoganess.org Tuesdays Pilates and Yoga at the Blitz Factory The Blitz Factory, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street E17 9HQ Breathe, flow, smile and sweat. All levels welcome. Fun flowy fun! Pilates class 6.45pm, Yoga at 7.45pm. £12 drop-in. £66 for 6 classes or £100 for 10. Sophia Pym 07500339399 sophia@sophiapym.com http://www.sophiapym.com Tuesdays Khyal Arts’ BollyFusion The Welcome Centre, St Mary’s, Church Path (off Vestry Road) E17 9RJ . Accessible, upbeat and exciting Bollywood class influenced by street dance and jazzy moves. All welcome, regardless of experience. Zumba-style warm up, learn a fun routine, yoga-style cool down. Over 18s. 7.45-8.30pm. First class FREE when joining, then £7 when booked in advance, £6 members. Vanessa info@khyalarts.org.uk or 07958 523431 Tuesdays Waltham Forest Flames Pastures Youth Centre, 15 Davies Lane E11 3DR A fun, GIRLS ONLY u18 basketball session for mixed ability. Fun drills and games that will lead to an improvement in both ability and character. Come along and try it out! 4-6pm. £3. Michael 07875 018011 michael.gainsborough-adam@ accesssport.co.uk http://jmywehner.wix.com/everbetter
FREE listings are available for events under £16, visit www.theelist.co.uk and select “List your event”. To advertise your business contact ads@theelist.co.uk 11
Unmarked a poem by Jack Ralph of Forest Poets A blank, the garden’s been wiped clean by fresh snowfall.
And right now, all I want to do is leap into it. Jack is a long-standing member of Forest Poets and the co-editor of Nutshell magazine. Find Forest Poets on Facebook and Twitter @ForestPoets
General level – all welcome
PILATES CLASS Authentic Pilates taught by a highly qualified “3rd Generation”, tutor with 14 years’ experience £10 drop-in. Limited spaces Leyton Parish Church Hall (St Marys) Lindley Road E10 5PY
!
CRAFTS
DANCE/FITNESS
FILM
GARDENING
HISTORY
MUSIC
FOOD
SHOPPING
THEATRE
Wednesdays E18 Yoga - Pregnancy Class Methodist Church, Winchester Road E4 9JP Suitable for mums-to-be from 12 weeks. 6.30-7.45pm. £12. Laura Piercy Farley 07970493521 e18yoga@virginmedia.com http://www.e18yoga.co.uk
A void stretching frozen all the way to the fence.
abpilateslondon
BOOKS
Tuesdays Estilo Y Sabor Latin Dance Chingford Rugby Club, Lea Valley Playing Fields, Waltham Way E4 8AQ Kizomba at 7:30pm, Bachata at 8:00pm, Salsa at 8:45pm, club from 9:30pm. Beginners, improvers and intermediate/advanced. 7.30-11pm. £3. Andreas 07804 778373
The flowerbed forgotten. No effort of lawn remembered.
alison.bray@gmail.com
ART FAMILY
www.abpilates.co.uk
Wednesdays Pilates on Wood Street Mothers Hub, 133 Wood St E17 3LX An hour class designed to relax tight muscles. Working on strengthening and toning the deep core. A perfect blend of relaxation, a little hard work, finishing with deep relaxation helping aid a great night’s sleep. 7-8pm. £11 or £45 for 5. Laura Hogg 07817604846 laurahogg@live.com Thursdays until 11 Dec Adult Hula-Hoop Beginner’s & Intermediates Course Priory Community Centre, 11 Priory Court E17 5NB Beginners will learn how to hula-hoop on this 5-week course. Learn how to spin a hoop on your waist, arms and hands. We’ll show you how to move and dance with a hoop. Intermediates will get to grips with new hoop tricks and the techniques to take hooping onto the next step. 7-8pm. £8.40 or £42 for all 5. Jodhi Dee 07767 331 661 jodhid@live.com http://www.thehouseofhoop.com
Wednesdays Low Cost Yoga Class Leyton Yoga, 691 High Road Leyton, First Floor (above USSR) E10 6RA A therapeutic yoga class focused on lengthening and supporting the spine, easing discomfort and releasing tension from the body. Open to all levels. Just drop in; no need to pre-book. 11am12pm. £6. leytonyoga@gmail.com http://www.leytonyoga.com Wednesdays Jivamukti Yoga Leyton Yoga, 691 High Road Leyton, First Floor (above USSR) E10 6RA Aleksei Zukov teaches a physically challenging, deeply cleansing asana practice combined with pranayama breathing techniques, Sanskrit chanting, and a powerful soundtrack. All classes are drop-in; no need to pre-book. 8-9pm. £10 or £90 for 10. leytonyoga@gmail.com http://www.leytonyoga.com Thursdays Dynamic Yoga Class Leyton Yoga, 691 High Road Leyton, First Floor (above USSR) E10 6RA A flowing Vinyasa yoga practice uniting physical exercise (asana) and breath (pranayama), leading to deep relaxation. These classes safely challenge and deepen your practice. All classes are drop in; no need to prebook. 9.30-10.30am. £10 or £90 for 10. leytonyoga@gmail.com http://www.leytonyoga.com
For lots more dance and fitness classes visit www.theelist.co.uk
ABPilatesleyton
A friendly, local yoga studio.
Free listing* available for events/classes with a maximum individual cost of £15, upload your event through our website
A space for personal transformation.
A full schedule of daily drop-in classes to challenge and inspire you.
*to appear on website and app. Space is limited in the magazine so we can not guarantee every listing will appear.
www.theelist.co.uk 691 High Road Leyton
(First Floor, above USSR grocers)
To advertise your business to 14,000 local people email ads@theelist.co.uk
www.leytonyoga.com 12 The E List makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. Please confirm with the venue before setting out.
Running until 13 December
Skull graphics The Not So Sugar, Skull Show Skulls have formed a key part of cultural expression from art to advertising for hundreds of years, from medieval days to the present. Mexican Day of the Dead sugar skulls, for example, have gone from a niche corner in the tattooing medium to being all over fashion and home furnishings. We at Artefacto hope to break the stereotype that skulls can only be sugary or morbid and have curated a quick fire show with participating artists from all over London and the globe. All images use the skull as a reference point and are in A4 format. Photographs, drawings, paintings and illustrations form this new and curious look at skulls by artists from various fields of the art world. Humour as well as primal beauty shines from the wide variety. ©Eri Tanaka
The prints will be for sale at affordable prices with proceeds going to the charity War Child.
©Kate Hazell
18 December to 31 January 2015
Resurrection Life and death are eternally intertwined. Traditionally the hope of life after death has propelled humankind to construct cultural systems from religion to medical advancements. Artists have been reflecting on death and what comes after for thousands of years. Abrahamic religions took over from what were considered pagan belief systems and agriculture slowly replaced hunter-gatherer as a subsistence method, solar calendars taking over lunar ones. The traditional belief that winter was not the time of death but the time of regeneration and creativity became lost in the mists of time. Humans began to celebrate only spring and summer as the joyful fertile months. The group multi-media show “Resurrection” will explore the belief that it is through death that new life begins and that as with the shortest day, Midwinter Solstice, it is in the darkness that one can better see the light. From funerary rites to recycling, this show will investigate our relationship with life through death. ©Sean Vasque
Artefacto Bespoke Tattoo and Art Space, 476 High Road Leytonstone E11 3HN 07412099018 artefactotattoo@gmail.com www.facebook.com/tripleXtattoo www.artefactotattoo.com 13
Where the wild cards are In less than a year, Wild Card’s brewery bar has found its way into the hearts of many Walthamstownians. Caramel Quin talks to its three founders about the story so far… and a sneak preview of the next chapter. Photography by Simon Goodwin. “grungy beer scene” and then got into homebrew as a way of driving down costs to a student-loan-friendly 16p a pint. Andrew stayed in Nottingham and studied economics. William travelled two junctions down the M1 to read politics at Loughborough and met Jaega, a chemical engineering student. “When we were home brewing, it was so small-scale it was more like cooking,” says William. “She treated it with condescending amusement. Even now, our brewery is by far the tiniest piece of plant she’s ever operated.” They had no entrepreneurial plans. Brewing was just a hobby. After graduating, Andrew and Jaega took jobs in London, while William worked at Nottingham’s Castle Rock brewery... as a barrel washer. “I was washing 300 barrels a day. But Castle Rock was ascendant at the time. They were the business. It was like being the tea boy for a rock band.” Eventually William followed the others down south and they found themselves living in Walthamstow. “That’s when we started talking about a brewery. The conversations became more frequent. Before you knew it, we’d borrowed on credit cards to make one batch of beer.”
Wild Card isn’t working at full capacity today. The mash tuns and fermenters are 14
all running fine. It’s just that two of its three founders are injured. William Harris has a broken rib thanks to rugby. While head brewer Jaega Wise has broken her foot in an incident which seems to have been caused by pickled onion Monster Munch and over-excitement. Beer may also have been involved. Beer is always involved with the Wild Card crew. William and Andrew Birkby (the injury-free third member of the crew) met stacking shelves in a Boots store in Nottingham, but they bonded over a love of beer. They drank in Nottingham’s
Photos © www.goodwinphotography.co.uk
Ravenswood industrial estate is barely recognisable as I arrive on a Thursday morning. There’s not a hipster in sight. The neon is switched off. Gone is the smell of kimchi. The garage is open for business, bringing the whine of tools and a distant radio. Outside God’s Own Junkyard’s storage unit are two five-foot toadstools bound for Selfridges’ Christmas window display. And the chairs in Wild Card brewery’s bar have been swept aside to make room for pallet after pallet of bottled beer.
It was 2012 and the Olympics brought a feel-good factor. Anything was possible. This is when the name Wild Card came to them. “We’d have thousands of bottles of beer all over the house,” says William. “Good record-keeping is crucial, to improve on the recipes. So we labelled them with playing cards. Plus we liked the idea of being non-
Wild Card Brewery, Unit 7, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street E17 9HQ www.wildcardbrewery.co.uk
qualified entrants. Between us we had about 8 months of industry experience… and that was just washing stuff. It was the London Olympics and we were the Wild Card.” They borrowed £4,000 on their credit cards and made a single batch of beer. Sold it, made a bit of money, then did it again. They’d hire equipment for the day to brew, then store the beer in the basement of the Warrant Officer pub in Higham Hill. By now they really wanted their own brewery. Jaega’s professional experience translated well to brewing and the boys had been making their own equipment. They convinced an investor. All they needed was a suitable site. They scoured Walthamstow in particular, but also other areas. And thankfully they landed on their feet at Ravenswood – a little-known industrial estate that Jaega found by scouring Google Maps. They had no idea that it was on the up. “I was literally zooming in on every shed, then visiting them,” says Jaega. “We visited Ravenswood – late at night, in the rain – and it had lots of potential: it was near the village, the tube, maybe we could get the gate opened…”
Soon after, they moved in and found curious things afoot at the unit opposite. By chance, God’s Own Junkyard had moved in the week before. The combination of Wild Card, God’s Own Junkyard and now Mother’s Ruin Gin Palace has been instrumental. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Ravenswood is transformed at weekends, never more than when the venues team up for big events like their recent vintage car boot sale, festivals and club nights.
Wild Card has truly felt the Walthamstow love. “There’s a buzz about Walthamstow,” says William. “We were warned from the start: ‘don’t think there’s a rosy world in which you have local support, pub landlords that know your name, cos that doesn’t exist any more’. Everybody told us that was an imaginary world, a Tolkien world of beards and pipes. And we quickly found that was bollocks. People in Walthamstow wanted to support us.”
“Summer of 2015 will be huge,” says William. “A lot more of the same. Six big events where we all work together.” Meanwhile this month sees the launch of Wild Card’s Ace of Spades porter and promises cosy nights around the woodburner and “mulled cider in vast quantities”.
And locals are literally supporting Wild Card as the brewery expands: doubling capacity to produce 12,000 bottles worth of beer a week. This is being crowdfunded in an unusual way – who needs Kickstarter when you have a loyal customer base? Ever the politics graduate, William quotes Mao: “The people are the sea that the revolutionary swims in.” “Without them, we’d be buggered,” William adds, slightly less poetically. “The banks said no, but within a week Andrew got our next round of funding sorted by borrowing from individuals. All organised via Twitter. The lenders get a good return and they know where we are. They can come round, have a cup of tea and see how the money’s being spent.” “We’re not hipsters,” says Andrew. “We just want to make good beer.” And that right there is why Walthamstow has fallen in love with Wild Card. From their commitment to paying all staff a London Living Wage to their passion for brewing, Wild Card are simply good people making good beer. We’ll drink to that.
The founders of the Wild Card Brewery: Andrew Birkby, Jaega Wise and William Harris. 15
Some of the staff and students from the series. Left to right Standing: Avani Higgins, Hazel Turner, Emma Austin, Nulufer Yildren, Michelle Winter, Emma Hillman, Alex Palumbo, Christopher, Ayesha Choudhary. Seated: Tawny, Lemar, Acacia, Summer and Ida.
Educating Walthamstow Some people might think a fly-on-the-wall documentary of an east end community school would be grim, revealing a dysfunctional world beset be insurmountable problems. Channel 4’s Educating the East End this autumn showed the truth to be anything but. Jenny Smith and Avani Higgins, Headteacher and Assistant Headteacher, from Walthamstow’s Frederick Bremer School tell the E List what it was like to be filmed and to be part of such an inspirational piece of TV.
The Decision We were chosen from a shortlist of 30. The directors talked to the staff and students to gage whether this was the sort of place they would want to portray. When they saw the warmth and commitment amongst the staff and pupils, they couldn’t resist. We went through an extensive consultation with parents before we agreed to take part. Our parent governors visited schools previously used in the series, and we held consultation evenings with the production company where parents could ask questions. We did not agree until we had the support of all stakeholders. The production company visited over 300 homes in the 16
weeks before filming to speak to parents personally. Every pupil who was featured had extensive support throughout the process. Safeguarding checks were meticulous. Getting prepared The production company was on site for eight weeks before filming to get to know the pupils and staff. They watched every aspect of school life, discreetly and sensitively, to get an understanding of the areas they might focus on. During the February half term, 72 fixed cameras were placed throughout the school. Cameras, lights, action! The first couple of days were very strange, and certainly everyone was slightly more dressed up than usual. But within two days it was completely business as usual. You never completely forget the cameras are there, but there is no time to let it affect how you deal with things. They filmed for up to 12 hours a day every day. Only three cameras were filming at any one time so you never knew if you were being filmed. 15 staff and pupils wore microphones every day. They finished with 2,000 hours of footage condensed to 8 hours of television. Non-teaching staff play a massive part in our school. Our pupils have a range of complex issues that they have to deal with, which sometimes
Photo © Paul Tucker www.paultucker.co.uk
TwoFour, a production company, first approached us in September 2013. They were scoping schools around the country to include in their on-the-wall documentary series. At the time, they did not particularly want a London school as it was felt it would not do as well in the ratings, however they were interested in featuring a female Head. We did not set out to take part, but felt it would be a great opportunity to show how good our community schools are, and how brilliant its young people are. The producers and Channel 4 loved the diversity of our school, the strong relationships and the humour which underpins it. We felt it was a great opportunity to change the perceptions of both our community and community education.
makes learning quite a challenge for them. One of our students, Charlie, said, ‘I wasn’t aware of the huge impact the support teachers could and have had on people in the school. They really care and try to dedicate as much time as they can towards helping people, and it really shows.’ Every story in the programme was an accurate and insightful portrayal of daily life at Frederick Bremer. We work incredibly hard to support our pupils not only to achieve at the highest level, but also develop the life skills to enable them to become responsible and informed participants and citizens. The cameras captured this, and we feel the series portrayed the essence of what we are. The Final Episode The eighth and final episode, exploring the school’s autism provision, was, we felt, particularly successful. Christopher, himself autistic, was the star together with his teaching assistant, Ayesha Choudhury. Both felt the programme would help raise awareness of autism and Asperger’s and how they can affect people individually on a daily basis. ‘Viewers will understand,’ said Christopher, ‘the flaws and talents people with autism possess.’ Reaction The reaction to the series has been overwhelmingly positive. The biggest critics have been our pupils, who feel that too much poor behaviour was shown which is not typical of the school. They are, nonetheless, very proud of the series. More widely, we have received so many positive messages, and locally, the perception of our school has
changed, and parents are now considering community schools again for their children. To be able to show how good our local schools are has been transformational. Walthamstow should be proud of its community schools, which, in our opinion, are key to a cohesive and integrated community. Re-assessments Being on the programme has been like holding a mirror up to ourselves, and we have really been able to re-assess ourselves as a consequence. Pupils have visibly grown and matured as a result of the process. They have also become far more empathetic to us as teachers. The girls in the first episode, for example, have transformed, having been shocked at seeing the impact of their behaviour. Pupils now know far more of what we do, and how much we care. In addition, they know so much more about each other and how complex people’s lives might be. A Year 11 pupil, for example, said, ‘I thought they were just drama queens; I had no idea what some pupils really have to deal with’. We are very proud of the programme, and it epitomizes for us what is so remarkable about our school. Brilliant, funny and inspiring pupils, talented; committed and dedicated staff; combined with great relationships and humour. It was not without its stresses, but it was an amazing opportunity to capture the unique dynamism of our school community. We have learnt a lot from it. There is a possibility of a follow-up programme next year, a sort of ‘where are they now’ feature, so watch this space! Interview by Paul Lindt.
FREE listings are available for events under £16, visit www.theelist.co.uk and select “List your event”. To advertise your business contact ads@theelist.co.uk 17
Wood Street Indoor Market 98-100 Wood Street, Walthamstow E17 3HX Tues-Sat 10am-5.30pm OPEN SUNDAYS IN DECEMBER Please note: individual shops may not be open all day every day. Please check the shops for details.
Treasures Galore! Wood Street Indoor Market is one of London’s hidden gems. Its passages are bedecked with heavenly delights. Whatever your passion: vintage, music, crafts or cake this is the place to come. Here is just a selection of what is on offer. Photographs by Tom Gold. 18
Bunty Olsen Vintage Elegant vintage clothing from the 30s to the 50s for the discerning lady and gentleman. Weds-Sat, 11am-5.30pm 07801 659531
Nobby Lawton’s Olde Footy Shop Selling football memorabilia, books, magazines and collectables, and vinyl records too. Tues-Sat 10.30am-5pm 07847174008
Photography Tom Gold. www.tomgold.co.uk
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Toy Shack Selling classic and contemporary character toys. Also action figures from the 80s, 90s and noughties. Fri & Sat 10am-5.30pm toyshacke17@gmail.com
The Old Curiosity Shop Quality antiques & collectables, curios, clocks & militaria.
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The gentle revolutionary Barry Bliss is the man with a movie camera. As an independent film maker in the European tradition he has written and directed six feature films since the early 80’s as well as countless shorts. He was proud to be a judge at this year’s Walthamstow Film Festival, and is currently working to provide lasting memorials to E17’s history as home to many of the country’s leading early silent film studios. Here he talks art, politics and family with Paul Lindt. Photograph by Paul Tucker.
Barry Bliss and I are standing in the hallway of his home in Walthamstow. I can hear the laughter of his family and the happy gurgling of a baby coming from out back. This is obviously a warm and welcoming family home, and I begin to understand why family means so much to Barry. Around us are cardboard boxes piled high, waiting to be shipped off to his wife Debbie’s new shop, soon to open on Orford Road. Debbie 20
is an internationally renowned yarn designer and Barry mentions her frequently and is rightly proud of her success. Apart from the boxes, the other noticeable feature of the Bliss hallway is that virtually every inch of the walls is covered in pictures, maps and posters. Currently, Barry and I are discussing eight or so small posters hanging in clip frames by the front door. Yes, the
letter forms are hand-cut and rushed, the paper cheap and ragged at the edges, but this immediacy only serves to heighten the visceral power of the messages they convey. They call for urgent action, with many showing the date and venue only scrawled on by hand, possibly at the last minute, summoning us to man the barricades during the student uprisings in Paris in 1968. Many of those involved would have been in their
late teens, the same age as Barry, who was dreaming of overthrowing our own hierarchy here in East London. Had Barry ever considered that his life as a filmmaker might have been easier if he’d been born in France rather than East Ham? He would be a countryman to one of his heroes, New Wave director Jean Luc Godard, but also now be working in a country with a thriving independent film business. He thinks for a second and comes back with ‘and it would probably be easier to finance my films’. But if you ask Barry he’d probably prefer to have been a Russian in the time of pioneer director, Sergei Eisenstein, maker of Battleship Potemkin in 1920s Moscow, or maybe a German chair designer in the Bauhaus Design School. This period of revolution, both in politics and art, is undoubtedly the one that inspires Barry the most, both in his anecdotes and his filmmaking. Sadly, with what befell those two radical movements, one crushed by Stalin and the other by Hitler, he’s probably better off here in 21st century Walthamstow. Barry’s politics largely reflect those of his father. He says his dad was politicised by the sight of a crowd of fascist blackshirts rounding on a young Jewish man who had dared to speak out against them. It wasn’t long before his father, along with his friends, had become communist agitators. Barry Bliss was born in East Ham, his dad was an electrician and his mum a dinner lady who also worked as an usherette at the local cinema. Aged six, Barry decided he wanted to be a painter, but it was a chance viewing of Buster Keaton’s silent masterpiece, The General, that fuelled his fascination for film. After being thrown out (a common theme) of school at 16, he started a local foundation course as a painter before quickly discovering that apparently “painting was dead”, and “concept was king”, so he left. He then tried a course in art and design, got involved in a bit of acting, fell in love with filmmaking, and joined his first mini uprising as part of a group of students demanding that they be able to make films as part of the course. They won and were promptly delivered a whole pile of filmmaking equipment. ‘Pretty impressive stuff,’ he remembers, and also a pretty impressive new tutor, Bill Stair, who’d just worked on John Boorman’s Point Blank. So it was that at 17 Barry began his first film, a short inspired by a poem his father
had written about the final hours in the life of Virginia Woolf. Amazingly Barry blagged his way into spending a couple of weeks at the Woolf’s house in Sussex to film it. Virginia’s husband, Leonard, had recently died and the house was just as he’d left it. Barry tells of writing letters on Leonard’s letterhead and discovering a forgotten portrait of Virginia by Vanessa Bell hidden behind some rubbish in the garage. ‘I could have just taken it and no one would ever have known,’ he says with a glint in his eye. He didn’t. What do you think of the finished film now I ask, curious as to what must be an amazing record in the formation of an artist as a young man. ‘Ah,’ he replies. ‘We had a friend who worked in a processing lab. He offered to do a little late night processing for £50 instead of £500. We leapt at the chance, only for him to lose most of film. I was left with just a couple of sequences.’ He was gutted and the Arts Council who’d provided the funds were livid. The college never embraced the film making course in the end and he was asked to leave. It was now that politics took control of Barry’s life and he joined the Workers Revolutionary Party, working in their famous bookshop in Charlotte Street by day and campaigning on the streets by night. It was in the early 70s, and Britain was buckling under soaring inflation and constant strikes. It seemed truly possible that the old order could be brought down, and for the revolutionaries to succeed where the French had failed in ’68. Barry completely immersed himself in the party to such an extent that in the end he realised he’d either had to get out or burn out. That was when he turned again to film. After a couple of shorts, in 1982, he was commissioned to make his first feature film, Fords on Water. It was a road movie where a couple of young men, one black and one white, fed up of life on the dole and seeking colour and excitement, took off across Thatcher’s Britain in a stolen motor. The film was well received, given a theatrical release and also shown on the then new Channel 4. Barry was now a filmmaker. Following some more scripts and his first novel, he embarked on his second feature, Poppies, in 2005. The film tells of an obsessive man writing about the Battle of the Somme where his grandfather was killed. The lead role was played by Paul McGann (The Monocled Mutineer and
Doctor Who), and Barry remembers their first encounter. ‘I was amazed; I went to meet him and he knew my work.’ Paul went on to become a good friend to Barry, alongside Gary Kemp of Spandau Ballet, who also appeared in the film. The film gathered quite a bit of interest with The Imperial War Museum offering to host its premiere, not only in London but at their newly opened IWM Manchester. Barry recalls, ‘I arrived before the screening and, looking across the empty seats, I saw right in the middle this cannon. “That’s the gun that fired the first shot in the First World War,” I was told’. Once the film had been shown, he returned to the stage for a Q&A to see many of the front row with tears in their eyes. ‘It was the most moving moment of my career,’ he remembers. Both Paul and Gary appear in Barry’s most recent film Art is..., which also features a real life family member – his actor son, Will. The film examines the idea of art from the perspective of why we make it, why we like it and what it’s for. True to his socialist roots, Barry briefly pokes fun at BritArt in the film, which he cites as an example of how art has been demoted to a commodity, with unsold work kept in dealers’ vaults to keep the prices high. For a film that challenges how we perceive art the major surprise comes with the insertion of some musical numbers. The film is intellectual, but not too intellectual, and only served to remind me how rarely films ask you to think these days. Before I head for the door, we talk about the subject that every filmmaker dreads – finance. I know he is in the process of trying to raise the cash for his next film, the final part in a trilogy, of which Art is… is the second. ‘It will be a comedy – that is, if it ever gets made,’ he says wryly. Films obviously take a lot of time and people to produce, so wouldn’t he prefer an art form that’s a lot more immediate, like those French poster designs we saw in the hall. ‘No,’ he says, ‘I love film. I like the process and the artistic control, and I love the idea that it’s a collaborative project.’ I get the fact that he is what the French New Wave called an auteur, in that he selects what interests him, writes the scripts and then directs. However, in line with his socialism, Barry has little time for his ego; the pleasure comes with the collaborative process, and he is keen to stress the value of every member of the team. In the end I guess it just another big happy family for Mr Bliss. 21
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Kirsty McNeil-O’Connor discovers a modern professional cooking school in a welcoming home. Most people living in Walthamstow will know, or have memories of the house beside the Spar on Orford Road. No. 22, once the much used and loved ‘Modern school of music and drama’, it is now a private residence, but owner Sarah Gau is reopening its doors to the community and will be offering a range of cookery courses for clients of all abilities. Professional courses will be delivered in a home kitchen by guest chefs and clients will be invited to dine on their own creations at the end of their day. Sarah, who will be hosting all courses and events, worked in social work for 30 years before deciding to pursue a career that included her passion for cooking. Community is very important to her and, knowing the history of the house, she designed her new kitchen with the cookery school in mind. “This house holds so many memories for the people of Walthamstow, I constantly meet people who came here when they were young, for lessons.” She says.
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Nat Di Maggio, a local chef who will be one of the professionals teaching courses at the school, has had a lifelong passion for food “Food was a central part of my family, I have relatives from all over the world, we couldn’t speak each others languages but we could come together and eat, it was all we had in common really.” He smiles. Nat trained as a chef in his teens then went on to become an events manager before returning to his passion and setting up pop up restaurants. The home based school has a wonderful kitchen, bathed in natural light, with a huge island at its centre, with enough workspace for up to 10 clients per class; it is fresh, modern and well equipped. One wall is entirely glazed with sliding doors to the large walled garden where Sarah grows her own herbs. Standing at the workstation it feels more like a stylish country retreat than a town house. Please visit the website to see the full range of courses and prices available, sign up for the newsletters or let Sarah know if there is anything you would like to learn – she’s always open to ideas!
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Advertorial
Locals love Highams Park cookshop Grace and Albert by Annabel Colley. Photos by Russ Bennett.
Already popular with locals, Grace and Albert Cookshop in Highams Park is now attracting young and old from further afield who value their great customer service and sheer range of kitchen products. The shop opened just over a year ago, grown out of a shared love of cooking between friends Abi, Joanna and Tony. They regularly attend shows and events to source products and unusual designs. Tony is responsible for sourcing vintage lines ie pinnies, tea-towels and aprons.
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“We passionately believe in the personal touch and in a thriving local high street – and we’re proud to be part of the Highams Park community” says Abi - who spent 20 years in catering. His trusty apron is like “a second skin” he says. In the future, they want to continue adding even more products to this cooks’ treasure trove and more items for loan (they rent out cake tins currently) and he tells me they are looking into setting up a monthly Sunday breakfast club.
Grace & Albert Cookshop, 406 Hale End Road, London E4 9PB Tel: 020 8523 4447 Facebook : Grace and Albert Cookshop Opening hours : Monday - Saturday 9.30am -6pm Sun closed except during December when open 12-4pm
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Enjoy a neon magical Christmas at The Mall Walthamstow. Meet Santa in his amazing illuminated wonderland and enjoy late night shopping to help you find the perfect presents…
The iconic glowing grotto is a brilliant beacon beckoning the children of Walthamstow.
Come and meet Santa who has arrived at his bright, brand new neon-themed grotto at The Mall Walthamstow. Santa gets to see his name in lights at The Mall in a fabulous new glam grotto, a neon haven of bright lights and festive fun.
Santa, along with his elf and festive helpers, will be at the Mall Walthamstow between 11am – 5pm on the following dates: Saturday 6th December, Sunday 7th December, Saturday 13th December, Sunday 14th December, Saturday 20th December, Sunday 21st December, Monday 22nd December, Tuesday 23rd December and Christmas Eve.
Take your seasonal selfies alongside Rudolph, complete with shining red nose which will be all aglow throughout the season.
The Mall will be open late until 7pm from Thursday 18th December until Tuesday 23rd December (excluding Sundays which are 11am – 5pm). The Mall will be open from 9am till 5.30pm on Christmas Eve and from 11am till 5pm on Boxing Day and 9am till 5.30pm on New Year’s Eve. The Mall will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Children can meet Santa at this oasis of light in The Mall until Christmas Eve for just £5 and receive a FREE gift. Commemorative certificates are available at £1 each.
To book your visit to Santa at The Mall Walthamstow, buy a Mall Gift Card or for more information visit the Ask Me Point in The Mall or go to www.themall.co.uk
Lighting the way this festive season, The Mall’s neon extravaganza is a Christmas kaleidoscope of colour and visual vibrancy.
Meet Santa here at The Mall Meet Santa in his Grotto on the Lower Mall near ASDA. Open every Saturday and Sunday from 29th November plus Monday 22nd, Tuesday 23rd December 11.00am - 5pm and Christmas Eve 11am - 5pm £5 a visit including a FREE GIFT!
Bringing families together Shopping as it should be 26
Architectural historian, Karen Averby uncovers curiosities and stories from Walthamstow’s rich and varied past
CHRISTMAS 1914 An initial glance at the front page of the Walthamstow, Leyton and Chingford Guardian published on Christmas Day 1914 reveals nothing out of the ordinary. As expected, the prominent advertisements are those relating to Christmas, placed by the likes of A Whitfield & Co. and A and M Perry, both located on Hoe Street, and Lidstones on High Street. There are also coal suppliers advertisements, as expected for the time of year, and the perhaps unseasonal but commonplace notices from establishments including the Grove Tavern and Abney Park Cemetery, together with recurring advertisements such as that for artificial teeth, or for the London and Provincial Bank. It is only when the gaze falls to the bottom right of the page that an indication is given that this Christmas was somewhat different. A call for new army recruits to fight in what was to become the First World War had become a regular feature on the front page of the newspaper, cementing the reality of the conflict and dispelling hope that it would ‘be over by Christmas.’ Very tellingly, the small type of the notice states that the age limit for recruits had been extended, and that married men and widowers with children could also now join up. The war’s effect on Walthamstow, Leyton and surrounding areas was already making its mark. There had been reports of fatalities and wounded amongst local men serving at the front, although there were also ‘good news’ stories, commending
House Histories Have you ever wondered who used to live in your house, or how it has changed over time?
individuals who had received medals for bravery, including a former pupil of the Walthamstow Truant School who was awarded the Victoria Cross. After Christmas, news began to filter home of the extraordinary Christmas Truce which had taken place between German and British soldiers on the front. Sergeant A. Lovell of the 3rd Rifle Brigade wrote to his relatives in Walthamstow of the events of Christmas Eve night, during which he witnessed lanterns and illuminations hung above the German trenches, and German and English soldiers chatting and sharing cigarettes midway between the lines. Private Farnden of the Rifle Brigade wrote to his parents at Leyton of his Christmas: “On Christmas Day we were out of the trenches along with the Germans, some of whom had a song and a dance, while two of our platoons had a game of football.” J. S Calder of the 5th City of London Rifle Brigade wrote to his family in Wanstead: “Soldiers from both sides singing to each other… and walking around bonfires.” He also wrote of how wonderful it was to hear a German band who emerged from the trenches at around 2 o’clock on Christmas morning to play carols. Subsequent Christmases were of course very different; fraternisation between opposing sides was vehemently forbidden pretty soon after the events of December 1914, and there would be no truce, unofficial or otherwise, until the armistice of November 1918. www.archangelheritage.co.uk
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LOCAL HERO
Grace Williams and Ingrid Abreu Scherer
Grace, you escaped teaching by getting involved in the local community, which it seems, has now pretty much taken over your life. Yes, the Big Local job did change my life - it made me see that people in communities, working together, even if they come from different backgrounds, can identify common ground and most importantly change stuff! Ingrid, many people will know your work at the Mill, but may not know how it drew you away from a life of academia. That’s right. When we moved to London five years ago, I was trying to finish my thesis in medieval poetry but I realised that academia was not the right career for me. I went to a meeting of my local residents’ association, and within a few days was given the job of co-ordinating the refurb of the derelict St James Library building. I’ve never looked back! What I love about The Mill is the fact that anyone can get involved without particular expertise and make a real impact straightaway. I loved seeing the empty building become a home for local people’s ideas, and I feel proud of my role in that. You are both keen to stress that your new project is very definitely not about the two of you. GW: ‘Change Champions’ is about growing grass roots community action in Waltham Forest. There are many small steps communities can take to share, grow and develop the resources they have. For example, sharing skills on using E-Bay, growing a community garden or nurturing their local community club or activities. IAS: It’s also about building on the potential of passionate local people and encouraging them to take that first step. Many groups may find the processes one has to go through to get help very intimidating or may have no idea of where to look for further support. GW: Yes, for example the Waltham Forest Somalian Association is run by a small group of women who run tutoring for local Somalian children, and sessions for the community about improving health. Our campaign will be able to help groups like these to find funds to support their activities, and get new initiatives going. IAS: We want to support people to carry on doing what they do best, and help them to gain the skills they need to take their project to a new level. So, we’re talking about a way to share knowledge and pool experience? GW: A lot of the expertise is dispersed around the borough, so yes, we want to bring people together to pool their knowledge and offer support. IAS: We are looking for people who can be Change Champions to lead the way. We will support them providing development workshops, seed funding and practical toolkits 28
on how to start, run, promote and develop their ideas and activities, as well as space to meet, one-to-one support and opportunities to engage with the rest of Waltham Forest at our seasonal roadshows. Also, I imagine, a good team of partners is crucial. GW: The Low Cost Living Campaign is about the Hornbeam connecting people with organisations who can help them grow community action. Our partners in the project are Organiclea, the Forest Recycling Project, Significant Seams, HEET, LETS and Eat or Heat. These organisations are all passionate about helping local people to look after their resources. We are always on the look out for new partners! IAS: It’s all about bridging the gap between the projects run in local living rooms and established organisations, so that we can match new ideas with the expertise and resources to make them happen. It sounds like this process of groups helping each other could be just the beginning. GW: Our vision is of strong local networks in which people have direct access to skills and enthusiasm, and are much more confident about finding solutions together. IAS: What would be great is, if in a year’s time, the Change Champions had led their communities to make things happen - workshops, skills-shares and ongoing clubs, and that this meant people were enjoying their environment, spending less money and feeling better about their health. Our first development programme, starting in January 2015, will be a series of free community-led workshops, open to all local people who want to develop an idea in their community. In a year’s time we will also have created a calendar to share low-cost recipes loved by community groups in Waltham Forest. This is all part of a larger objective called the ‘We Love Low Cost Living Campaign’, which uses some of the same ideas. GW: Yes, Change Champions is a really important part of a wider Waltham Forest project. The ‘We Love Low Cost Living Campaign’ is about local people taking small steps to look after their own resources - money,
Photo © Paul Tucker www.paultucker.co.uk
Even though they’ve already achieved so much for the area individually, as part of various community groups, they are now combining their experience to promote a potentially game changing new project for the new year. Paul Lindt met them to find out more..
food, transport and energy, and preventing waste. The ideas and activities that Change Champions will initiate will help people do these things. We are challenging people to make one small change and collecting tips about how to live better for less in the community. It’s like a virtuous triangle - you look after your environment and resources, you save money, you feel better and healthier and so on... You said you are looking at ways to share tips and recipes next year. GW: Yes, we are looking for groups who have great, cheap and tasty recipes that they want to share. We will then arrange cookery sessions and pay for ingredients, so that the group can prepare, cook and enjoy the meal together and star on the calendar’s pages. There will also be space for us to share the great tips people give us for living well for less. We want to give the calendar away to local people in winter 2015.
I can tell you are both bursting with ideas; how do you find working together? GW: I love working with Ingrid, I learn so much from her, and who makes me feel anything is possible. Ingrid keeps my feet on the ground. IAS: For the past few years we’ve been working towards the same vision. I’m so pleased that we can now pool our skills and get things done together. Her boundless enthusiasm is really inspiring! Finally, is there anything else you’d like to see for Walthamstow in the coming year? GW: I’d like to see even more new, creative ideas popping up, run by local people, maybe wearing super-hero outfits! It would be great to run a local hero event… so local heroes could put their feet up and have a rest! IAS: I love walking the streets of Walthamstow and hearing so many languages spoken, and seeing so many different cultures living side-by-side. As an immigrant myself, it makes me feel at home. I’d like the borough to keep this vibrant atmosphere.
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If we don’t stock it, we’ll source it. If we can’t source it, we’ll make it.
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Walthamstow Diary Between forest and marsh lies the glorious Stow. These are the tales and meanderings of a proud resident of E17 I don’t want to alarm anyone, but I have a strong suspicion that large chunks of this year have been stolen. Either that or some of 2014 has fallen down the back of the sofa, and been lost amongst the fluff and biscuit crumbs. I can hardly believe it’s December already, which is why I think bits of this year must have disappeared. It feels like only a few weeks ago that I was sat in Lloyd Park at the Walthamstow Garden Party, but the presence of the slightly less wonky than usual Christmas tree on the town square, proves that summer is now just a distant memory. The short days are back with us, and before long we’ll be wearing silly paper hats again and toasting to a new year. If I were to review 2014, I think I would sum it up by saying “Blimey, what a year”. There seems to have been more things to do in Walthamstow than you could shake a stick at. Every weekend there was an event or something new opening that needed investigating. Much to my delight 2014 has been the year of the new cafe. I was beside myself with excitement when 56 St James Street opened just around the corner from me. Not long after that, Bygga Bo appeared near the Bell, Wood Street Coffee popped up at the superb Blackhorse Workshop, and just recently, Wynwood Art District joined the gang at Bell corner. I think I’ve consumed enough tea and cake this year to sink a battleship. We haven’t been lacking in drama either, civil war nearly broke out during the Mini Holland trial. And much to everyone’s surprise, a pub chain purchased our much loved Granada/EMD cinema. This year has been exhausting and exciting in equal measure. The roller coaster of Walthamstow life has been pretty full on but I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. Here’s to the year that brought the Antiques Roadshow making the most exciting car park in the world to E17. I wonder what 2015 has in store for us? www.walthamstowdiary.com
T.J.Ball & Co.
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Honest, Unbiased, Independent Financial Advice - from your local E17 consultant: • Not tied to any bank, building society or insurance company, giving you access to the best products from the whole market • Arrange the most appropriate mortgage deal for you • Protecting your family and business finances • Planning for school and university fees and retirement • Meetings held in the privacy of your own home or our offices in South Woodford. Contact Antony Smith for a no obligation consultation today! Call 07725 228860 or email antonysmith@arg-ifa.co.uk ARG Financial Services Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
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The Magpie’s beady eyes are always on the look-out for the shiniest, funniest remarks, witty retorts and bizarre sightings to steal from the area’s streets and social media channels.
If you stare at the Wood Street clock for more than 30 seconds you will see Bill Oddie’s face. Walthamstow Facts
Walthamstow Council, fed up with Paris Council’s annual wonky Christmas tree gift, have reciprocated in true style. MM: Alas, with the glorious and much-feted “arcade site” now a thing of the past, where will Wonky Tree settle itself this year? I suggest the acres of redundant pedestrian space now available at Bakers Arms following recent traffic-worsening alterations. Walthamstow (unofficial) Tourist Board
© PHOTOGRAPHER UNKNOWN
The UCKG has sold the EMD Cinema in a private sale to the Antic Pub Collective.
Tree by US artist Paul McCarthy
Thanks this month to www.facebook.com/WalthamstowTouristBoard, Walthamstow Times, Walthamstow Life and twitter.com/e17facts
Walthamstow has more CPZ’s than the Polish version of Scrabble Walthamstow Facts
Caramel Quin
MS: I remember how sticky the seats were in the dress circle. Those were the days... PW: Who remembers Ernie? CL: the old boy keeping us all in line? lol MF: I saw Star Wars here. Became a Jedi here. GS: My Mum saw Cliff and The Shadows get booed off there. BC: I used to love flicking popcorn off the balcony LOL JC: I got lucky round the back one night TR: Many a happy day paying to get in then opening the emergency exit for my mates! AK: I had the first date with my future wife there. 36 years later I hate that cinema for ruining my life. Walthamstow Times
Guy Fawkes originally tried to blow up Walthamstow after mistaking it for Westminster. He was not known for his good spelling. Walthamstow Facts What the hell just landed outside The Scene?! I’m guessing tiny aliens will hop out... SF: David Blaine? PH: It’s the “affordable housing” component of the development. LL: anyone else got OCD issues with the fact the box isn’t sat centrally on the legs? DM: its the Philae probe. SF: Maybe it just overshot the Comet in Tottenham Hale. Walthamstow Life
The blue check pattern on most abandoned mattresses was designed by Vivienne Westwood from her 1997 “F*@$ you Walthamstow Facts Britain” collection Doll’s hospital on the High Street
AD: Opposite Willow Walk on the corner of Palmerstone Road VH: I worked there on a Saturday in the late 50s. I got 2/6! MC: I really believed it was a hospital. SA: Brilliant!! My doll‘s head broke, mum took it in and when we went to collect it, they had put a boys head on it. I was so upset.. BB: I had a doll who spent some time in the dolls hospital,after my dad sat on it. LG: My sister got our mum to buy her the ugliest doll in the shop one birthday. KC: My mum put one of my dolls in and it never came out. BW: Think I remember that bloke, or at least I remember his TEETH!! MS: I remembering mum saying we would take Susie there to get her eyes fixed but we didn’t and now she is in the loft Walthamstow Times @Billtix Just watched the John Lewis ad. This looks like E17’s very own Low Hall sports ground to me
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December gallery
Eden Road, Walthamstow, London, E17 3x two bedroom flat and 2x one bedroom flats for sale Price Range £325,000 - £450,000 An outstanding property development in a fantastic location This wonderful Victorian property has been given a new lease of life with its conversion to residential properties. There are five stunning new flats, each with a new 125 year lease, all refurbished to an exceptional standard and with creativity and consideration given to the design. The sought after location, just a moments walk from the Village, provides a multitude of the best local pubs, restaurants, cafes and shops. Transport links are also faultless with busses, trains and the tube all within a 5 minute stroll. The nearly finished E17 Scene development will offer an expansive new multiplex cinema and restaurants on your doorstep. This is a tremendous opportunity for any first time buyer or professional couple.
Eden Road, London, E17 3 bedroom terraced house for sale Guide Price £650,000 - £700,000 An enviable location in the heart of Walthamstow. The expansive lounge/diner has a large bay window that floods the room with light.
Copeland Road, London, E17 3 bedroom terraced house for sale Offers in Excess of £625,000 The bay fronted lounge has a fireplace and plenty of room for a family to enjoy with the adjoining second reception room opening onto the garden.
020 8520 9300 www.estates17.co.uk 40 Orford Road London E17 9NJ
Cairo Road, London, E17 5 bedroom terraced house for sale Guide Price: £600,000 - £650,000 The extended kitchen/diner is a stunning open space with stylish new units, doors to the garden and the flexibility to transform the area to suit your personality and needs.
enjoy life ... living in east London
Estates 17 December Gallery
Cromwell Road, London, E17 3 bedroom terraced house for sale Guide Price £575,000 This fantastic property has been refurbished and decorated to a very high standard throughout.
Berthon Gardens, London, E17 4 bedroom end terrace house for sale Guide Price £550,000 - £600,000 The stunning and expansive kitchen/ diner has stylish units, skylights, doors that open onto the garden.
Granville Road, London, E17 3 bedroom terraced house for sale Guide Price £525,000 - £550,000 Generous sized bedrooms and to the rear of the property there is a 70ft rear garden with studio space.
Hillcrest Road, London, E17 3 bedroom terraced house for sale Guide Price £475,000 - £525,000 To the rear of the property there is stunning kitchen/diner with doors that open to the paved garden.
Estates 17 Lettings
M ARSH STR M ARSH M ARSH STREET
Barclay Road, London, E17 2 bedroom town house for sale Guide Price £425,000 - £450,000 With its sense of warmth and personality this is a tremendous opportunity to create a comfortable home.
Browns Road, London, E17 3 bedroom terraced house for sale Guide Price £425,000 - £450,000 Occupies a great location close to Hoe Street, a short walk to Walthamstow Station, Lloyd Park and the Village.
Byron Road, London, E17 3 bedroom terrace house to rent £369 pw| £1,600 pcm This Character home features a spacious lounge, fully fitted kitchen/ diner, utility and 3 double bedrooms.
Aubrey Road, London, E17 2 bedroom cottage to rent £358 pw| £1,550 pcm The property itself has been cleverly extended yet retains its charm with an array of original features.
Grosvenor Rise East, London, E17 2 bedroom flat to rent £346 pw| £1,500 pcm Two large double bedrooms, a modern bathroom and a quite substantial lounge/diner.
Mortgage advice that’s right up your street Marsh Street provides expert independent mortgage advice for everyone, from first time buyers and remortgagers, to experienced buy to let landlords. As an independent mortgage adviser, we have access to the whole of the mortgage market. That means we are able to find the very best mortgage for you from all of those available. We have the experience and ability to see the whole market, to cut through the fine print and explain the pros and cons of each product. Get expert mortgage advice by speaking to Marsh Street today. Marsh Street was the original name of Walthamstow High Street
Greenway Avenue, London, E17 3 bedroom terraced house for sale Offers in Excess of £500,000 Lounge/diner has patio doors overlooking the back garden, an open space with the flexibility to transform to suit your needs.
Douglas Terrace, London, E17 3 bedroom terraced house for sale Guide Price £400,000 - £425,000 The large dining room has double doors that open onto a beautiful mature garden.
Howard Road, London, E17 2 bedroom flat to rent £346 pw| £1,500 pcm Two double bedrooms, large lounge, modern kitchen/diner, modern bathroom and a shared garden.
Traditional values and good advice enquiries@ marshstreetmortgages.co.uk 0208 520 9300 40 Orford Road, Walthamstow, London E17 9NJ
Walthamstow’s Estate Agent
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. There will be a fee for the advice given, the exact amount will depend upon your circumstances but we estimate it will be £495 or 1%.