Essentiallocaldec13 by Essential Local

Battersea, Clapham & Balham â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 33

Rick Stein in Balham

Christmas Past Local Legends - innovators Michael Aldridge and Tim Berners-Lee Sugar & Spice - irresistible prawns and an unusual Christmas snack Inspirations - some great gift ideas from local businesses The Best Newâ&#x20AC;Ś businesses, expert advice and local events

contents Welcome There’s a new look and feel to the magazine this winter as the other half of Essential Local, Monika Orman, has taken on the layout. She’s done a great job and you’ll see further improvements in the New Year as we continue to develop the magazine. Our websites have also been given a new look and renamed EssentialBattersea.co.uk, EssentialClapham. co.uk and EssentialBalham.co.uk. The new homepages provide more immediate access to updated local event listings, along with what will be increasingly more current local news and content. And we’re very excited to present you video features courtesy of our new partner South West London Television. Now if only I can convince them to let me get in front of the camera! We hope you enjoy this issue of the magazine, but if you have ideas for improvements, why not get in touch? Next year we’ll be actively looking for partners as we develop Essential Local and our other projects. We wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas! Richard Chumbley richard@essentiallocal.com

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Contents 5 8 11 12 14 17 18 19 20 22 24 26 27 28 29

What’s New... in your local area? Introducing a Columbian, a cleaner and an artist Rikki Tikki TV Richard Chumbley interviews Rick Stein in Balham The Essential Local Community Member Spotlight: Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar Fish ’n Bites Indian recipes to surprise your Christmas guests Christmas Through the Centuries We take a look at the changing face of Christmas Tate’s Tips for Landlords Want to be a landlord? First step, get some advice Garden Advice Suggestions for natural decorations, inside and out Christmas Inspirations Still unsure what to buy them? We’re here to help Where we Live A local quiz, images of Balham and a Christmas treat Local Innovators; Worldwide Impact How Wandsworth schoolboys changed the world From Russia With... ... tradition, experience, passion... and ballet Warm Winter Dips There’s a local swimming pool to suit everyone Local Business Cash¾ow tips for small businesses Reviews: Out & About in your local area The Ambassador Experience and Movers & Shapers Essential Local Events What’s on locally this winter?

Editor: Richard Chumbley • richard@essentiallocal.com Designer: Monika Orman Cover photo: Juliana Johnston Contributors: Felicitas Lind, Paul Tate, The Geffrye, Henrietta Gentilli, Nitesh Patel, Adam Jacot de Boinod & Trevor Cribb Advertising/Editorial Enquiries: 020 8432 3441 info@essentiallocal.com • www essentiallocal.com Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Advertisements are published in good faith and neither the publisher nor its editorial staff endorses any advice, advertisers or advertising material included within this publication and cannot accept, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.Any suggestions made by contributors to this publication should not be undertaken without seeking appropriate professional advice. Essential Local, the Essential Local Directory and Essential Local Events are trademarks owned and controlled by Richard Chumbley. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form–electronic, mechanical, recording, photocopying, or otherwise–without prior written permission of the publisher. All in-house artwork and editorial in this publication remains the copyright of Essential Local. ©Essential Local. All rights reserved 2013.

DON’T DELAY, HOOK TODAY! STARRING

HENRY WINKLER AS CAPTAIN HOOK

JEREMY LEGAT AS PETER PAN

FRI 6 DEC - SUN 12 JA JAN AN 0844 871 7651 atgtickets.com/richmond FEES APPLY

what’s new

What’s New? in your local area Colombia arrives in Tooting Bec We all know Colombia’s reputation for amazing coffee but rarely do we have the opportunity to experience the quality of its cuisine.That’s all changed with the arrival of Sabor to Tooting Bec. Now you can try dishes such as Arepas Rellenas, Chuleta De Pollo and Empanadas to your latin-inspired heart’s content. ‘Sabor’ means ‘¾avour/taste’ in Spanish and the food at this shimmeringly clean Latin American café/ restaurant should deliver plenty of it, with intriguing ingredients used such as plantain, cassava, guava jelly and Colombian Andean potatoes. “We wanted to create a totally different concept for the local area,” explains Cesar Sepulveda who runs the restaurant with his family. “We have a great selection of traditional Colombian and Latin American food – mostly meat based – served in a very modern setting, and our customers seem to love it. It really is food for everyone – it’s not particularly spicy, just ¾avoursome.” Dishes include Bandeja Paisa, a platter of rice, pork belly, kidney beans, minced beef, sausage, plantain and more; Churrasco Argentino, an enormous steak served with fried chips and garnish; Salmon ‘Sabor’, grilled

Personalised Art

Many people dream of giving up a city job to do something they love. Local artist Andi Bunbury did just that and for the last two years she has been painting watercolours for a living. “It’s so much more ful½lling, and apparently I’m a much nicer, happier mum,” Andi says, smiling.“Hopefully people can feel my enjoyment coming through in the work.” Andi hand paints personalised names or initials for christening presents, new baby or Christmas/ birthday gifts. Each is an original artwork, with the client selecting from a number of themes and then requesting personal touches to suit the little girl or boy in question. “With the fairytale theme, for example, I’d ask the

salmon with a spicy tomato sauce; and Papa Criolla, roasted Andean potatoes found in just one area of Colombia which are:“valued like truf¾es in Italy.” Open from midday Tues-Sun, you could visit for their lunch special; enjoy an evening meal; or simply drop in for a Latin American smoothie while you use their Wi Fi. And, guess what? They also do amazing coffee!

Sabor – The Latin Way 2 Tooting Bec Road SW17 8BD 020 8767 3222 • sabor@saborlondon.com Saborlondon.com client if they wanted other characters instead – Puss in Boots, Cinderella, etc. Or in a racing car theme they might want a date of birth as the car number. “By using a pool of existing characters and illustrations I can produce an original artwork while keeping the price down. It’s way above a standard level of service and I’m pleased to say that every client I’ve had has been absolutely delighted.” Andi also creates customised ‘Word Art’ where a client requests a theme, such as wine, and she turns it into a typographical artwork.You’ll ½nd a number of these available as prints on her website, along with other ‘gift ready’ items such as ½ne art prints, wrapping paper and notelets. There’s still time to get a personalised artwork by Andi for Christmas, but don’t delay!

Andi Bunbury 07816 959179 andibunbury@gmail.com Andibunbury.co.uk

what’s new Cleaning up for Christmas It’s Christmas: your family and friends will be visiting and you want your house or ¾at to look fantastic; but, well, it’s Christmas – you have far too much to do. Which means you need someone you can trust, who will regularly clean to your timescale and who doesn’t come at a Christmas budget-sapping price. At £10.95 an hour for weekly cleans, Sean Lonergan’s Time for You service should leave you plenty of sixpences for the Christmas pud. “We know that clients in the local area expect fantastic value for money,” says Sean, who worked in the city before starting his own business. “But the aspect of our service our clients most appreciate is our intensive screening procedure. Before they select someone to care and clean your home, Time For You carefully checks their references, assesses their character and vets them in their own homes (never hire a cleaner who’s home is a mess!) Later they will arrange for you to meet the selected cleaner before work commences and then that same cleaner will care for your home each week. Particularly welcome to local residents is the fact that Time For You police check every cleaner. “This

is an added vetting procedure that very few cleaning companies undertake,” says Sean. “It provides an exceptional additional safeguard for our clients and they appreciate the added peace of mind it brings.” If you would like to a cleaner over Christmas or would like to replace one in whom your trust is fading, contact Sean on the details below.

Time for you • Southwest London 0800 542 0920 or 020 8945 5721 swlondon@timeforyou.co.uk www.timeforyou.co.uk/swlondon

0207 118 0402 www.taxassist.co.uk/niteshpatel

food & drink

Rikki-Tikki-TV Chef A recent odyssey through India was apt for someone named after the mongoose in Jungle Book. But Rick Stein OBE has always been a man on the move, says Richard Chumbley I interview Rick Stein in Harrison’s in Balham in the middle of November. He’s being steered relatively rapidly from interview to interview to Ànish in time for his speaking and book signing engagement at the restaurant. I ask him if these media opportunities phase him at all. “No, not really. Once I’m in the right sort of mood,” he says, engaging me with a friendly smile and a brief businesslike handshake. “I mean, when I’m at home I’m thinking ‘oh God, I’ve got to do all that,’ but once I’m up and at it, it’s Àne.” Is working as a chef good preparation for this sort of thing? “Yes,” he says. “Nothing is quite as frenetic as working in a busy kitchen. In terms of sheer physical activity, the kitchen is hard to beat.” Chef, cookery book author, TV presenter and successful restaurateur, Rick Stein is in Balham to support Sam Harrison, a former employee turned business partner – Rick has a signiÀcant investment in both Harrison’s and Sam’s other restaurant in Chiswick, Sam’s Brasserie. He is also here to promote his new memoirs, Under a Mackerel Sky. My brother Jeremy is responsible for why I’m called Rick rather than Christopher... My mother had been reading aloud Rikki-Tikki-Tavi from Kipling’s Jungle Book, and Jeremy dubbed me Rikki. I would have been three or four at the time and was as inquisitive as any mongoose. I can see how the name would have stuck.

Sam Harrison of Harrison’s in Balham and business partner Rick Stein

Born in 1947, Rick’s formative years were shaped by the Oxfordshire farm where he was raised, his schooling and by his family’s much-loved holiday home in Cornwall. His memoirs are full of detail as to the richness of his childhood experiences and his early memories of food. Fishing off the rocks we never caught much more than wrasse and pollack.... The pollack she [his mother] made into ½sh cakes... All the cooking I’ve ever done since is in some way an attempt to recapture some of the ¾avours of the cooking at home when I was a boy. Those pollack ½sh cakes with mashed potatoes, parsley, salt, pepper and dazzingly fresh mackerel, just put under the grill with a sprig of fennel, are still the best I’ve ever eaten.

During his teenage years, spent in love with rock and roll and playing bass guitar in bands cursed by appalling equipment, Rick felt he wasn’t very good at anything. As a result, he thinks, he was always trying to please . I had to run the parties, I had to run the disco, I had to get satisfaction from other people enjoying themselves.

Then, at just 18 years old, Rick heard that his father – who had the symptons of what we’d now call bipolar disorder – had committed suicide. I often think I have no memory for detail but I can remember every colour, every hue of that moment. The greyness of the sky, the blue-green of the Land Rover, the darker green of its seats, the coat I was wearing, a brown raincoat, short and, I thought, Italian-looking.

I ask Rick why he’d decided to share such very personal experiences and write a biography. “My wife Sarah said to me, ‘You know you really can write, I think you should write more than cookery books.’ So then it was, sort of like, what am I going to write about? I’ve not got a novel in me but I’ve certainly had a life, so that seemed the obvious choice. It was difÀcult getting into the routine but once I had, if I missed out I felt out of sorts all day.”

food & drink

Photo by Juliana Johnston

Rick’s memoirs tell how his Àrst catering job at The Great Western Hotel in London lasted just six months. I couldn’t work out who I was. I just didn’t know how to feel at ease with these chefs who lived in what seemed to be far-away working class places like Walthamstow or Acton or Balham [it’s changed a bit now, Rick!].

He decided to escape to Australia. For two years he travelled, working in an abattoir and on the railways before taking time out in New Zealand and Mexico. On his return he applied to Oxford and in 1971 emerged with a degree in English. A mobile disco enterprise, The Purple Tiger, came next before he took a big risk and opened a nightclub in Padstow, Cornwall. He wanted the ‘in’-crowd; what he got was drunken Àshermen looking for a Àght! The nightclub was forced to close, but he was still permitted to serve food. It was in 1976 that I decided I would have to do the cooking myself. We couldn’t afford to pay anyone else... but, almost more importantly.... I felt I had to pin myself down to something. It’s a source of some embarrassment to me to have to admit that I came into cooking by default, but it’s true.

After a steep learning curve and a signiÀcant refresh of his own culinary skills at catering college, The Seafood Restaurant became a success and in 1984 it was voted ‘The Best Restaurant in England’ by The Sunday Times. As a result the restaurant came to the attention of the BBC’s David Pritchard who was planning a cookery series called Floyd on Fish. In this way Rick’s TV career began, guesting with the larger than life Keith Floyd before eventually Rick became a presenter in his own right in the cookery series, The Taste of the Sea. The series was a success and 25 cookery shows, 19 books and one autobiography later, he is one of the most recognisable faces in cookery. Dog-lovers would be utterly dismayed if I didn’t ask about Chalky, the excitable Jack Russell who accompanied Rick on so many journeys. Rick’s memoirs tell the story of how a star was born. I started talking to camera and Chalky started growling. I asked David [the producer] if he wanted to carry on and he nodded.... and then Chalky gave a great snuf¾e and the next minute he had leapt up and bitten the ¾uffy cover on the microphone above my head.... Chalky’s performance on that day got him a part in every series till he died in 2004.

food & drink Did Rick ever get a new dog after Chalky? “I didn’t, because afterwards I found myself with my new wife and [Sarah is his second wife; his Àrst, Jill, remains his business partner] travelling to Australia a lot. But it would have been another Jack Russell.” A hint of anger shows on Rick’s face as he remembers how the Evening Standard critic Victor Lewis-Smith used to called Chalky a ‘prop dog’: “He never liked my programmes, but I thought that was shocking,” says Rick. “He was a family pet.” His wife currently lives in Australia, with Rick regularly travelling between there, Cornwall and his Áat in Chelsea. “When Sarah and I move to London as planned, I think we would get another dog.” With all the travelling, two families, business and TV committments, I wonder if he has time to cook? “Very much so,” says Rick. “I do a lot. Mainly because I’m testing recipes all the time. Not just for the books, but also because I’m still responsible for the menus in my restaurants.” And for Harrison’s? “At the moment I’ve got quite an input because they’re putting in a lot of the dishes from the Indian cookery book, but I don’t have a daily input at all. Although I like to see that a lot of dishes are the sort of things that I like – simple dishes. He points out the Mussel Massala: “Probably one of mine; that salt and pepper squid I’ve done forever; and I’m very keen on this Nashville hot chicken he’s doing now. “It’s great being a partner in someone else’s restaurant,” says Rick. “It means I don’t have to do all the work. I just come in and say what I think is good and not so good.” I’m curious as to whether his attitude to cooking has changed over time? “Not really. I mean the fact is that every day you’re hungry, so it’s a constantly renewing enthusiasm, but over the years I’ve deÀnitely tended to make things simpler. When you’re young, you show off; as you get older you realise that less is more.” What’s Rick Stein’s Christmas going to be like “I spend one year in Padstow, the next in Sydney, which is where I’ll be this year. I’ll be cooking and this year it will be turkey,” says Rick, smiling. “There’s this idea that Australians have prawns and salad on Christmas day but many still have the traditional sort with all the trimmings. They like hot ham, roasted pumpkin and sweet potatoes as well, so I’ll be doing those too.”

Under a Mackerel Sky A Memoir by Rick Stein Ebury Press • Price £20

food & drink

The Essential Local Community Member Spotlight

Harrison’s Restaurant and Bar

Harrison’s, a member of the Essential Local Community for about a year, is an all-day, informal neighbourhood brasserie on Balham’s Bedford Hill which Tatler Restaurant Guide 2013 went so far as to describe as “Balham’s Best Restaurant.” Popular menu items include Ham Hock & Black Pudding Fritters with Celeriac Purée, Mussels Masala, Whole Cornish Plaice, Lamb & Chorizo Burger and Lemon Curd Tart with Clotted Cream. The restaurant opened in 2007, a sister to Sam’s Brasserie in Chiswick, the second restaurant spearheaded by Sam Harrison, who previously worked with Rick Stein in Padstow. Rick is an investor in both of Sam’s establishments: hence his appearance at Harrison’s this November. “We love being in Balham. I like the ‘villagey’ feel,” says Sam, who supports the local community by lending rooms to community groups, donating raf¾e prizes and buying locally. Indeed Harrison’s was recently awarded the highest possible rating by the Sustainable Restaurant Association and are the only local restaurant to have achieved this. “We buy our fruit and veg from Mick at the market and meat from Chadwick’s,” says Sam. “For me, that’s very important.” According to Sam, customer habits have changed over the years. “I’ve de½nitely noticed a move towards healthy eating – which is why we’re introducing a pop-up juice bar next year. And people don’t seem to go out as much mid-week – hence our ‘Bring Your Own’ Mondays (available again in January). And there’s de½nitely more of a ‘scene’ in Balham now – people visit a number of places in one evening.”

Sam speaks very highly of Kim Sullivan, Balham’s Town Centre Manager. “We could do with one in Chiswick. The way Kim brings it all together in Balham is invaluable. Summer’s Balham Food Festival, for example, has been a great success.” Recent developments at Harrison’s include the refurbishment of the basement into an intimate cocktail bar with bespoke cocktails and its own menu. ‘Downstairs at Harrison’s’ can be hired for private functions, as can the new private dining room upstairs,. The latter will also be the location for next year’s new ‘feasting’ menu. “It’s a chance to recreate that house dinner party feeling without having to cook or clean up afterwards. It could be suckling pig, a roast, big shell½sh platters... anything!” For now, the Christmas menu is online and party bookings are being taken. If you book a Christmas party for eight people or more you’ll be in with a chance of winning a host of prizes, including your entire bill on the house!

Harrisons Restaurant and Bar 15-19 Bedford Hill, Balham SW12 9EX 020 8675 6900 • info@harrisonsbalham.co.uk Harrisonsbalham.co.uk The life of our community and the success of local organisations depends upon people choosing to shop, spend their time and use services locally. The new Essential Local Community, supported by Essential Local magazine, our websites and a range of marketing, website and printing services – has been created to provide a core of promotion for local businesses and a network which enables small businesses to help one another without a signi½cant commitment of time or money. It is open to any local business, charity, organisation or venue with less than ½ve locations and it has one clear, consistent message: Choose Local! If you would like more information about the Community, please email richard@essentiallocal.com

food & drink

Fish ‘n Bites Rick Stein offers us a simple, tasty prawn dish and an Indian snack that could bring a little bit of Asia to your Christmas PRAWN FRITTERS WITH CHUTNEY AND KACHUMBER FROM THE ALLEN KITCHEN, KOLKATA SERVES 4

12 extra large unpeeled raw prawns For the batter 60g plain ¾our 60g chickpea ¾our ¼tsp salt 1 free-range egg 150–225ml water 70g ghee, for frying To serve Lemon wedges

To prepare the prawns, pull off the head and peel away the shell, leaving the tail intact. Use a small, sharp knife to run down the back of the prawns and pull out the black intestinal tracts, if visible. Then use the knife to cut almost all the way through the prawns and butter¾y them open. Flatten them out a little with your palm. Pat dry with kitchen towel. For the batter, mix the ¾ours and salt together, whisk in the egg and enough of the water to give a smooth batter the consistency of single cream. Heat the ghee in a heavy-based saucepan or karahi over a medium heat. Once hot, dip 2 or 3 prawns in the batter and carefully lower into the ghee. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning once, until crisp and golden and cooked through. Drain on kitchen paper. Repeat with the remaining prawns. Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over and chutney and kachumber salad on the side.

Extracted from ‘Rick Stein’s India’ by Rick Stein (Ebury Press, £25)

SWEET AND TANGY POTATO SHREDS (Lilo chevda) SERVES 8

150g chana dal (Bengal gram or split yellowpeas), soaked overnight in coldwater. 1kg potatoes, such as Maris Piper, peeled, coarsely grated Vegetable oil, for deep frying Salt 3 tbsp unsalted cashew nuts or peanuts (skinned) 1 tbsp sesame seeds 1 tbsp fennel seeds ½tsp turmeric 1½tbsp caster sugar, plus extra to taste 2fresh green chillies, ½nely chopped with seeds 2 tbsp raisins Juice of 1–2 limes

Drain the chana dal and pat dry with kitchen paper. Spread out on a tray lined with a clean tea towel (or more kitchen paper) and leave on one side. Soak the prepared potatoes in salted water for 20 minutes. Drain, use your hands to squeeze out any excess moisture, then pat dry with kitchen paper. Two-thirds ½ll a large, deep-sided sturdy pan with vegetable oil and place over a medium heat. Test it’s hot enough by dropping in a piece of potato; it should sizzle and turn golden in about 20 seconds. (Or use a deep-fat fryer heated to 180°C.) Deep-fry the potatoes in batches until crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Season with half a teaspoon of salt and set aside. Using the same oil, fry the chana dal in batches for about 3–4 minutes, or until they rise to the surface and turn a shade darker. Drain on kitchen paper, and add to the fried potatoes. Heat a heavy-based frying pan over a low-medium heat. Add the cashew nuts or peanuts and fry for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted. Add the sesame seeds and fennel seeds and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring all the time. Remove from the heat and stir in the turmeric, followed by the sugar, half a teaspoon of salt, the chillies and the raisins, then mix with the potatoes and lentils. Add plenty of lime juice to give a sweet-sour ¾avour (you may need to add more sugar and salt at this stage to balance the ¾avour). Serve at room temperature as a snack.

home & garden

Christmas through the centuries Essential Local takes a seasonal opportunity to show how much Christmas traditions, interiors and decorations have changed over the last four hundred years

A New Year’s Day feast in the hall of a middling London home. The table is set with the second course, a mixture of savoury and sugary sweet dishes. The room has been decorated with evergreens, a pagan custom, but early Christians adopted them as a symbol of everlasting life. The kissing bough, hanging from the ceiling, was the precursor of the bunch of mistletoe still used today. The Christmas season lasted for twelve days, starting on Christmas Day. It was a time for hospitality and charity and an occasion for feasting, drinking, dancing, playing cards and generally having fun. New Year and Twelfth Night were high points in the celebrations. In the mid-17th Century, Christmas was banned by the Puritans who disapproved of excessive eating, drinking and gambling. The ban was lifted with the restoration of the monarchy.

1830s

1790s

It is Christmas Day and the family are about to have their dinner of roast beef and plum pudding Turkey was introduced to England by the 1530s but did not replace beef as the main dish until the late nineteenth century. Plum pudding, a boiled pudding of suet, eggs, Áour and dried fruit, the forerunner of Christmas pudding, was served with the beef rather than as a dessert. By the late eighteenth century, Christmas was a pale shadow of the feast which had been celebrated 150 years before. Even in rural areas the ‘keeping’ of Christmas, whereby landlords provided a large feast and charitable gifts for their tenants, appears to have been less common, and this was a cause for concern among those that felt the wealthy were not honouring their obligations to the poor.

In this drawing room a small family party is about to take place on Twelfth-Night -- the 6th January. Traditionally a King and Queen are chosen for the night and are then served by their ‘courtiers’. The King is elected by the discovery of a dried bean in the traditional Twelfth-Night cake, and the Queen by a pea. The situation could arise whereby a servant was elected ‘Bean King’ and was served by his master all night. By the early nineteenth century, the celebration of the Christmas season was beginning to enjoy a revival. Old traditions reappeared, and the TwelfthNight game became more like present-day charades, with characters chosen by picking cards. The cake became increasingly decorative.

Images, Research and Copy Courtesy of The Geffrye Museum of the Home

1630s

home & garden

1910s

This picture shows a middle class Victorian drawing room of the 1850s. A family gathering is taking place in the evening of Christmas Day. It was during the reign of Queen Victoria that many of our Christmas customs Àrst became widespread especially the practice of decorating a Àr tree in the home. It is a misconception that Prince Albert introduced the Christmas tree from Germany; it may

The drawing room in the house of a young family around mid-afternoon on Christmas Eve. A young mother has put up some of the decorations, with a little help from the maid, but there are still several lengths of ivy ribbon to go. She has stopped for a well-earned cup of tea before packing the children’s stockings with small presents and treats. They will be hung by the Àreplace, for the children to Ànd in the morning. Christmas stockings were a relatively new tradition in England, having been gradually adopted from America from the middle of the nineteenth century. The idea is an adaptation of the custom of leaving shoes out on St. Nicholas’s Day, a tradition that was taken to America by Dutch settlers.

actually have been Queen Charlotte, the German wife of George III, during the 1780s and 1790s. As yet there are no Christmas cards to be seen. The Christmas card was an English invention. Children would sometimes give their parents written seasonal greetings in order to show their ability at handwriting, but the ‘Àrst’ commercial Christmas card was devised by Sir Henry Cole in 1843 to save him from the chore of writing individual letters.

1960s

1850s

This shows the living room of a young family, and here we see the usual debris after the presents have been opened on Christmas morning. The children’s mother is doubtful that they will remember which of their friends and relations sent which gifts, but is determined that they will all fuÀll their duty by sending them thank you cards. There is no doubt which gifts are from her husband’s mother - they are the brightly coloured plastic toys and the selection packs of chocolates which are proving to be very popular. The children’s grandma is apparently immune to helpful hints that learning toys or useful presents like books or wooden building blocks would be more suitable!

home & garden The Geffrye Museum The Geffrye explores the home from 1600 to the present day. The museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus is on the living rooms of the urban middle classes in England, particularly London. A chronological sequence of period rooms show how homes have been used and furnished over the past 400 years, reÂžecting the changes in society and patterns of behaviour as well as style, fashion and taste. Special exhibitions are mounted throughout the year, exploring a wide variety of themes relating to the period room displays. A traditional favourite at the Geffrye is the Christmas Past exhibition, when Christmas is celebrated in authentic historic style. The period rooms sparkle with festive decoration and 400 years of Christmas tradition come to life as the visitor is given a glimpse of the traditions, rituals and decorative styles once common in English homes. The exhibition lasts from 26th November 2013 to 5th January 2014 Geffrye Museum 136 Kingsland Road, Shoreditch, London E2 020 7739 9893 www.geffrye-museum.org.uk

home & garden

Tate’s Tips for Landlords Is being a landlord access to a goldmine or a mine½ed? Advice, says Paul Tate of Tate Residential, can make all the difference As a landlord, it’s not keeping the tenant that’s the problem or even spending too much on the bills, it’s complying with the ever increasing legislation. Does a landlord know, for example, if they have or need a Àxed wire electrical certiÀcate? A PAT test? Valid Àre and legionella risk assessments? A valid asbestos survey? The correct insurance valuation? Valid deposit registration and accounting? An energy performance certiÀcate? Are their tax returns correct? Do they have a correct section 47 and 48 notice? Worryingly for a landlord, if the answer is ‘no’ to some of these, they could be liable to Ànes or criminal charges. Which is where expert advice comes in. That’s the legal side of things, but if you are thinking of becoming a landlord, or are already a landlord, you will be pleased to know that an expert can also help you save money. A landlord working with an expert, for example, would learn the following:

A landlord choosing to pay his or her insurance annually after checking the parameters and details of their insurance can save hundreds of pounds.

In Central London, tenancies that start during September will be able to command higher rents with reduced vacant periods, due to a surge in prospective tenants at this time of year.

Externally redecorating a property one year after the neighbours will mean that a property will always look fresher and better maintained.

Similarly, decorating one room of a rental property each year will keep the Áat well presented and thus reduce vacant periods and command higher rents. This alone could make a 10% difference to income.

For more ‘Tate’s Tips’ visit Tateresidential.co.uk

Tate Residential Ltd 16 Battersea Park Rd London SW8 4LS tateresidential.co.uk 020 7622 6914

home & garden

Garden Designer Henrietta Gentilli suggests some natural decorations for Christmas, both inside and outside Wreaths Simple willow wreaths can be decorated at home with fresh but long lasting material such as rosemary, old man’s beard, viburnum or hellebore ¾owers and berries; or you can use natural looking but arti½cial berries and fruits. Birch dogwood and pussy willow Lightly sprayed birch stems with hanging glass/crochet/ bead/painted decorations can be a great decoration; as can bright, naturally coloured yellow, orange and red dogwood stems or willow: these are great combined in a vase with evergreen foliage and fresh ¾owers. Outside Select outside areas which are highly visible from inside. Coloured stems such as those described above will survive weeks in pots, with moss/lichen placed over the soil, and you can add branches with hips (such as rose) and berries to complete the display. Skimmia, heathers and cyclamen in small terracotta pots look good in a set of three on the garden table. Lights The hanging or placing of hurricane lights in the garden over Christmas can create a real sense of magic. Where to buy New Covent Garden Market off Nine Elms Lane is good for brightly coloured stems such as dogwood or willow, and for ½r branches and potted plants (it closes mid morning!). Sarahvey¾owers.co.uk for garlands, wreaths and table centres. And also try Northcote Road Market, The Flower Station and Petersham Nurseries.

For winter or new year garden advice or design contact Henrietta Gentilli on 07711 652992, email designs@henriettagentilli.co.uk or visit HenriettaGentilli.co.uk

celebrations

Christmas Inspirations Luxury Gifts for Men The Inside Man Buying presents for men does not need to be a hassle. Keep it classic with cuf¾inks, go modern with a Chillsner beer chiller, indulge him with a truf¾e gift box, go high on adrenaline with a Ferrari drive or make it truly unique with a personalised canvas. Enjoy late night shopping every day in December or simply buy online.

30 Bellevue Road SW17 7EF 020 8682 3834 info@theinsideman.co.uk Theinsideman.co.uk

The Gift of Relaxation Relax and Float If you want to give a family member, partner or friend an incredibly relaxing all-over sensory experience, a series of ¾oats could be ideal. A gentle ¾oat can signi½cantly help relieve pain, de-stress and aid relaxation. It’s also particularly good for all stages of pregnancy. Open throughout Christmas, Relax and Float are offering an introductory three ¾oats for just £95.

By Appointment: Christian Fields SW16 3JY (nearest station Norbury) info@relaxand¾oat.co.uk Relaxand¾oat.co.uk

Let it Snow Cotsworld Outdoor The UK’s leading outdoor retailer has an enormous store just outside Southside Shopping Centre and a great range of christmas gifts for men and women. But it’s also an aladdin’s cave of gifts for kids, like this ever so snug Barts Kid’s Crooki Inka Hat; the brilliant Extreme Freestyle Snow Scooter (just £20); and the Artic Force Snow Ball Blaster Solo, which launches snowballs up to 50 feet!

56 - 58 Garratt Lane Southside Shopping Centre SW18 4TF 020 3130 1425 wandsworth.shop@cotswoldoutdoor.com Cotswoldoutdoor.com

Kids Will Love ‘em! Capstick Sports Our local sports shop has a great range of presents for kids. ‘Skillsters’ will love the new Football Flick Urban, a trainer that allows single players or friends to receive a kicked ball back at different heights and angles.There’s the Mini Street Cruz 2, a robust scooter with three wheels to aid stablility. And the latest Swingball, the Pro, with a new point scorer and more spirals for longer games.

84 Northcote Road Battersea SW11 6QN 020 7228 7814 capsticksports@hotmail.co.uk facebook.com/CapstickSports

local interest

QUIZlocal

WHERE WE LIVE

We asked fomer QI contributor Adam Jacot de Boinod to put a local quiz together, just for you....

No need to be lonely this Christmas!

1) Wandsworth prison is the largest in London. To the nearest 100 how many people can it hold? 2) How was Balham described in 1958 by the comic actor Peter Sellers? 3) What kind of animals at Battersea Park Children’s Zoo are named Piggle and Wiggle?

5) To the nearest 100, how many trains pass through Clapham Junction on an average day? 6) On Clapham Common the Eagle and Mount ponds are known as a place to ½sh. For what recreation traditionally is its Long Pond used? 7) What famous Southwest London landmark featured, along with a ¾ying pig, on the sleeve of Pink Floyd’s album Animals? 8) Who is the member of Parliament for the people of Battersea, Balham and Wandsworth and which party does she represent? 9) What is the name of the stream – now entirely underground and incorporated in the sewer system – that once ¾owed through Balham, Clapham and Battersea?

and for Christmas... 10) ‘yule-hole’ in Scots dialect means the last hole to which a man could stretch his belt at a Christmas feast! But can you guess which of the following three de½nitions is correct for this seasonal word (coined in 1661) ... ‘hederated’? A) adorned with ivy B) snowing just a few ¾akes C) prematurely aged through drink and a dissolute life ....Answers on page 38

Adam Jacot de Boinod is the author of The Meaning of Tingo, published by Penguin Books and the creator of the iPhone App Tingo, a quiz on interesting words.

For the 50th year the Rotary Club of Battersea Park will organise a free Christmas Day Lunch and Party for older people in Wandsworth. Guests are transported to and from the heated Marquee in Battersea Park and given a fantastic Christmas Lunch, as well the chance to enjoy carol singing, bingo and dancing… and a goody bag to take home! The Rotary Club need help to fund this event and you can help an older person have a very enjoyable day by donating online at www.justgiving.com/ rotarychristmasday or by sending a cheque (payable to the Rotary Club of Battersea Park) to 61a Abbotswood Road, London, SW16 1AL.And volunteers are needed too! To register as a volunteer or as a (very welcome) guest please visit rotarychristmasday.org.uk or call 020 8696 6540

And the winner is... Essential Local attended the Wandsworth Business Awards at the Roehampton Club this year in the company of our longstanding friends Francesca Alexander hair and beauty, who were delighted to receive a Highly Commended commendation on the night. Charity Wandsworth Oasis was another ½nalist. The coveted Business of the Year crown and the Commitment to the Community award both went to Business Launchpad, a charity that has spent the past 25 years helping young people get into business. Radio and television presenter Paul Ross hosted the awards, which were held in association with The Tax Guys. Wandsworthbusinessawards.com

The team at Francesca Alexander hair and beauty

4) Eddie Izzard, Jo Brand and Al Murray have all performed in a ‘fruity’ cabaret at which South West London pub?

local interest

BALHAM SEES BALHAM

Frosted Leaf. Brian Sharland

Organised by local resident, photographer and artist Felicitas Lind, Balham Sees Balham is an â&#x20AC;&#x153;exhibition without wallsâ&#x20AC;? celebrating our community. Local residents were invited to submit photographs that express life in Balham as they see it. Selected images were then displayed in Balham store windows during October. See more images at Balhamseesbalham.org

Local Tiger, Balham. Felicitas Lind

A Portrait Se

ssion. Louise

phy Rose Photogra

Tooting Frost. Brian Sha rlan

Bedford Hill at Night. Oli Farago

Among the Autumn Leaves. Juliet Savigear Balham Bumps & Babies Photography

community & education

Local innovators; worldwide impact You’re likely to be doing at least some of your shopping online this Christmas. But, says Trevor Cribb, did you know that it was the vision of two of our local schoolboys that made it possible? Sir Tim Berners-Lee We are always keen to encourage our readers to shop locally and support local businesses – indeed we’ve created a ‘We Choose Local’ initiative to do just that but it is inescapable that much of our Christmas shop... shop... shop... will in fact be click… click... click. We’ll be online, spending our little bit of the ever rising multi-billion pound total of online shopping occurring this Christmas. What you may not know is that two of the individuals key to making that incredible technical revolution in our daily lives possible actually spent their school-days right here in our local community!

Tim Berners-Lee

The most inÁuential Wandsworth schoolboy ever? Tim Berners Lee was apparently quite shy when he attended Wandsworth Common’s Emanuel School between 1969 and 1973, but he was also astute and armed with a razor-like, inquisitive mind. What an impact that mind has had. It is no wonder he is regularly named the greatest living Briton and was a guest of honour at The 2012 Olympic opening ceremony. He is the inventor – yes the actual inventor – of the World Wide Web. Now that’s the way to make an impression!

Global Giant

Sir Tim performed this miracle by hauling a narrow cast communication system used almost exclusively by defence organisations and academic institutions into the life-changing global ‘giant’ we know today as the World Wide Web.

Photo: Emanuel School

Berners-Lee created that ‘stuff ’ we recognise only by the initials at the top of our browser’s address bar: HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol). It was this which enabled him to build links into documents so that they could be connected together. On August 6th 1991 – not really that long ago – he put the Àrst website online at CERN in Switzerland, marking the birth of the World Wide Web. Emanuel School is understandably proud of their former pupil. Says Registrar John Benn, “Sir Tim is, of course, very much honoured at the school and we were delighted when he agreed for our computing suites to be named after him. We are hoping in the future to also persuade him to visit again one day as one of our speakers.” A popular view is that Sir Tim has done more for the world of today than Johannes Gutenberg did for the world in 1490 when he introduced the printing press. If you’re going to ‘Like’ someone on Facebook or Tweet about someone, it should probably be the man who made it possible to do so in the Àrst place, and who gave the World Wide Web to us all... for free!

WWW versus The Internet The ‘Internet’ is a gigantic computer network which emerged from various US government and university projects in the early 1970s.The Internet is, if you like, the bringing together of all other networks. The ‘Web’ is the massive collection of digital pages viewable by the use of browsers: a ‘web’ of information connected by hyper-links.What Berners-Lee did was determine the means by which computers connected by the Internet could communicate with one another. The Internet could and did exist without the Web but the Web couldn’t exist without the Internet. Got it?!

community & education Michael Aldrich

Shop ‘til your mouse drops! A good few years before the arrival of the World Wide Web, Michael Aldrich the astute mind of Michael Aldrich, formerly a student of Clapham College (located at the site of the current St Xavier College near Clapham South) ingeniously pioneered technology that would eventually lead to the online shopping phenomenon.

June 1955 at Clapham College (now St Francis Xavier College). Lord Longford presents prizes. Michael is pictured second from the right.

All photos on this page: courtesy of Michael Aldrich.

A Revolution

In May 1984, a 72-year-old housebound pensioner Jane Snowball in Gateshead ordered vital groceries from her local shops through her television. Michael Aldrich achieved this ‘revolution’ by using a domestic phone line to connect Mrs. Snowball’s home television to the retailers’ computers, which could then process her ‘order’ transactions. Explains Michael: “Videotext [as it was called] was already being used by companies to do business, most notably the travel industry. But it was a Gateshead Council community initiative that saw it become the world’s Àrst business-to-consumer home online shopping system.” The system developed and continued to be used through the 80s for businesses-to-business transactions, and then when the Internet arrived and home PCs started to become widespread, home shopping really took off. Michael fondly remembers his time in Clapham South: “It all seems such a long time ago now. I went back to my school for the Àrst time a while ago and checked up again on The Windmill public house where I had my Àrst drink. I noticed the new 6th form college is in on the paddock of what was Clapham College when I was there. I remembered the Commons too... the number of times I ran round Clapham Common!”

The Future

Michael ,who went on to become an information technology adviser to Margaret Thatcher, loves online shopping but thinks there are limits: “I am an enthusiastic online shopper myself, but I also enjoy going out to shops too and meeting people. Shopping today can both be business-like – just go online and buy what you want – and it can be more social too – a trip to the Mall, lunch out and so on. It’s a ‘mix’ and I don’t think for one moment online shopping will completely take over from modern social ‘going out’ shopping. The largest share in time that online shopping will probably achieve is around 40%. “I wrote a paper a while back highlighting the power of social media online. People might in time get together in huge social groups and, in a kind of ‘new online democracy,’ challenge major organisations, perhaps about their pricing or behaviour. For example, if huge numbers of social media users got together and all threatened to all move their accounts from a power supplier – that would interesting indeed,” says Michael

Did you know? • Average weekly spending online in August 2013 was £579.6 million, an increase of 22.5% compared with August 2012. • The amount spent online accounted for 9.7% of all retail spending excluding automotive fuel. • Spending online now accounts for 66.6% of total spending in ‘non-store’ retail sector. Source: Of½ce of National Statistics, Sept 13

Gateshead Pensioner Jane Snowball who placed the ½rst shopping list online in May 1984 using Michael Aldrich’s new phone line link and TV ‘shopping’ system.

community & education

From Russia with.... Clapham is home to a unique organisation that allows all children to experience ballet, both as viewers and students Lover of the art form or not, it is hard to dispute the beauty of ballet or the discipline, strength and balance involved. For a reminder, from December 22nd the Clapham Picture House is showing a season of live ballet from the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. But did you know, just Àve minutes away from those screenings you’ll Ànd the Bolshoi’s former Principal dancer Evgeny Goremykin teaching children and adults in a local ballet school? The London Russian Ballet School (LRBS), founded by Evgeny and Harriet Pickering, is the only UK school to offer Russian ballet training exclusively with Russiantrained teachers from the Bolshoi and Mariinsky Theatres. “We’re proud of the background and training of our teachers,” explains Harriet, “There are serious expansion plans for the school. We want LRBS to be one of the best ballet schools. We have wonderful teachers from an unmatched heritage and tradition who want children to respect and fall in love with ballet.” LRBS trains students in a range of vocational ballet programmes from ten years of age. There are full-time courses from the age of sixteen with academic A-level studies to produce “rounded students”. But opportunity and access remain essential at LRBS.

All Welcome

The school also works with amateurs of all ages. “’Is it too late for me to learn ballet?’, many people ask,” says Harriet. “No it’s not. Our oldest regular is nearly 70: it’s her passion. We offer Pilates ballet, a very speciÀc programme based on the great knowledge ballet has which will change a body shape completely: one woman in her late 60’s looks 35! It is very effective.” As for children, ballet classes are available from fouryears-old to improve co-ordination, followed by children’s ballet and with ‘Open Level Teenagers’ classes catering for

those who wish to take a class for personal enjoyment. “We would like everyone to have the chance to train at a very high standard,” explains Harriet. “We’re not rigid; we’re Áexible and completely non-selective. But what we do want is some level of dedication – it’s the only requirement.

Kids Love Lambeth

Alongside LRBS’s formal performances, most recently at Cadogan Hall, students perform in local schools on behalf of the charity Kids Love Lambeth. Over 1800 children a year are able to enjoy a classical ballet performance for free. “We take these seriously,” says Harriet. “We want to engage the audience. They are all invited back for subsidised lessons at LRBS, which are available to all regardless of background or means. Students from the School number over 235 children (excluding adult amateurs and vocational students) and more than 80% of these are subsidised; while 95% of vocational students are also assisted.”

For more information on classes or if you’d like to support their work, why not get in touch. London Russian Ballet School, 42 Clapham Manor Street SW4 6DZ 020 7498 0498 • info@lr-bs.com Londonrussianballetschool.com

sport & fitness

Warm winter dips Managed by DC Leisure, once again the UK’s ‘Leisure Centre Operator of the Year’, Wandsworth’s swimming pools really do offer something for everyone

Tooting

As the chill in the air, diminishing light and winter rain deÁates our desire to run, cycle or power walk our way across the commons, the draw of exercising in the sheltered warmth of a leisure centre grows stronger. One of the leading attractions, of course, is the fantastic range of pools we have access to in our local area. Swimming really is for everyone, regardless of age, weight or physical activity levels. And when undertaken regularly it undeniably increases your Àtness level, helps you lose weight and improves body shape. If you are looking to burn calories, for example, a half an hour swimming at a steady pace will burn 200 calories, while an Aqua Jog class – a low-impact alternative to running – will burn 300! Each DC Leisure swimming pool in Wandsworth has something different to offer. Balham Leisure Centre’s vintage pool has been sympathetically refurbished but keeps its period charm. The pool area is light and airy and offers a great relaxing swimming experience. Looking for a more family friendly pool? Latchmere Leisure Centre boasts a beach style pool, wave machine and a water slide that make it the perfect place to take the little ones for a dip. Putney Leisure Centre’s L-Shaped pool caters for more serious swimmers with a deeper section of the pool for lane swimming while retaining a family friendly area in the shallow end. Any future Olympic divers can also use the diving boards to practise their skills. Finally Tooting Leisure Centre offers two great pools: one vast 33m bright and open main pool with a viewing gallery, and a separate children’s pool.

If you’re ready to make a big splash and get back into swimming you can take advantage of a great value monthly membership which gives you unlimited use of all four local swimming pools. Alternatively, of course, you can just pay per swim. It really is as simple as that. What are you wating for? Get swimming!

Balham DID YOU KNOW? • Swimming for an hour can burn up to 650 calories which is more than an hour of walking or biking. • When you swim, you use all of your body’s major muscle groups. • Swimming is a great cardiovascular work-out which strengthens both the heart and the lungs • Water activities offer 12 times the bene½ts of a similar land based activity, and it’s gentler on your body too as its low impact

Latchmere

Putney

For further details on all that is on offer at your local leisure centres visit www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk

local business

It’s one of the biggest challenges for small businesses today. Nitesh Patel of Tax Assist Accountants offers tips on how to improve your cash¾ow 1) Good credit management

Having monthly or quarterly accounts will help you keep a close eye on these ¾uctuations and react appropriately.

2) Realistic forecasts

Have a realistic view of your cash ¾ow and avoid overspending, which can cause your business to lack the funds required to make payments on time.

3) Make regular cash ¾ow projections

Making regular cash ¾ow projections can be the difference between having enough funds to make payments on time and not. These projections will help you ensure enough funds are available when payments are due even during quieter trading times.

4) Chase payments

Actively chase payments to keep your business healthy. Not receiving your payments on time may have a knock-on effect to making your payments on time. Late payments can affect all parties involved. Payment services like Direct Debits, Standing Orders, accepting credit cards or running credit checks are all viable alternatives.

These quick tips highlight a few areas where you can help ensure that you are never left uncertain about your cash¾ow situation.

For a free no obligation quote on your accountancy and tax requirements please call Nitesh Patel on 020 7118 0402 or email niteshpatel@taxassist.co.uk

reviews

Out & About in your local area Ambassador Experience by Richard Chumbley

I’ve always been a fan of Richmond Theatre, it’s a stunning building and an outing to Richmond is only 10 minutes by train from Clapham Junction. So I jumped at the chance (quite theatrically, in fact) to try their new Ambassador Experience: packages designed to make your visit more memorable. Having arranged our tickets for the show – it turned out to be a pretty good stage version of Rising Damp – and selected the ‘Purple Label’ package, we arrived at the theatre and were escorted to the Ambassador Lounge, where we were welcomed by an attentive waitress who took our coats to a private cloakroom. The package included entry to the Lounge, nibbles, a programme, box of chocolates and a half bottle of chilled premium Champagne.We settled down in our plush red/ gold chairs and felt very important indeed. Later, during the interval we simply went back to our semi-private lounge and sat in our earlier seats. It was particularly pleasant not to have to use precious minutes queueing for a drink or jostling for a seat. The experiences are Green Label (£5), a preordered drink at the bar; Blue (£15), a programme, nibbles, glass

Movers & Shapers by Richard Chumbley

I’m relatively ½t because I do a lot of running but I recently caught myself literally resting a glass of beer on my belly as if it were a shelf! Enough is enough. Finding an hour or two for a regular gym session is incredibly dif½cult and they can be impersonal, lonely places. Moreover, unlike with a personal trainer it’s down to you to motivate yourself. Hello? My lack of willpower is the reason I need a gym in the ½rst place! Movers & Shapers, however, offer trainer-led workouts in very small groups which last just 30 minutes and take place every half an hour, with an online booking

28 28

of wine and drink at the bar; Red (£15), entry to the Lounge, a welcome drink, nibbles and a complimentary cloakroom;Yellow (£30), entry to the Lounge, half a bottle of Champagne and chocolates, and the Purple. The value of the extras is probably down to personal preference, but I de½nitely recommend entry to the Lounge – it adds a little ‘showmanship’ to the show.

Richmond Theatre, The Green To book an Experience call 0844 871 3005 Atgtickets.com/richmond system allowing you to choose a slot at the click of a mouse. I chose, I fretted, I turned up. After a consultation with my trainer, I tried a Power Plate session. In this you do your workout – lunges, pushups and such – on a vibrating plate, using it as you might a mat.The idea is that it stimulates your natural response to vibration and causes your muscles to contract safely but rapidly. For someone unused to such training it was hard going but surprisingly easy to get used to. Afterwards I felt like I’d done an incredibly intense workout.Will it work? Another classmember was 70+, she looked 50! My second session, crosstrainer cardio, came three days later. It was probably too soon after the ½rst: my legs were aching and my balance was poor.The instructor noticed, got me a glass of water and recommended I stop and give my legs a shake. Once again, it was a tough session but that only proved to me how much I needed to work on my core strength and balance. In two sessions, which is probably as many as I would do in a week, I felt I’d had a full week’s workout.The next time I have 30 minutes to spare, I’ll be back.

Movers & Shapers 63 Balham High Rd SW12 9AP 020 8673 0808 Moversandshapers.co.uk/balham

what’s on

EVENTS

December - January

The Pump House Open Exhibition November 28th - December 22th The Pump House Gallery’s ½rst open exhibition. Curated by six young artists from Action Space’s London Studio, which supports artists with learning disabilities. Free workshops every Sunday from 11am to 3pm. Pump House Gallery, Battersea Park • 020 8871 7572 Pumphousegallery.org.uk Groovy Art Workshops Website Launch Poetry Competition December Play puzzles, science games, paint a face, draw a wizard, create a virtual creature on Groovy Art’s new website. GAW are running a comp’ to ½nd the best ‘Christmas Past’ poem. Free English Tuition worth £75+ up for grabs. To enter go to Groovyartworkshops.co.uk Venn Street Food Market Saturdays 10am-4pm Every Saturday in December running up to Christmas with ½ne foods and fresh produce from a variety of small British independent and artisan producers. Also see a variety of handmade arts and crafts, Christmas trees and ¾oral decorations. Vennstreetmarket.co.uk Christmas Shopping Evening Quirky Dovetail Thursday 5th December Learn to make Christmas table centrepieces with Jayne Copperwaite Floral Design.View fantastic jewellery collections. Complimentary French wines and cheeses while you browse. Raf¾e and discounts on the night. 6-9pm. quirky DOVETAIL, 24 Ritherdon Rd SW17 8QD 020 8682 3083 • Quirkydovetail.co.uk Peter Pan - Richmond Theatre Friday 6th December- Sunday 12th January Legendary TV and ½lm actor Henry Winkler (OBE), best known for his role as The Fonz in US TV series

Battersea, Clapham & Balham

Happy Days, will be the bad guy everyone loves to hate as he takes on the role of the dastardly Captain Hook. Richmond Theatre, The Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7651 • Atgtickets.com/richmond Henry Cavendish Christmas Fair Saturday 7th December A chance to buy some Christmas presents, have a ½sh & chip lunch from the Frying Squad and lots of activities for the children including bouncy castle and the Secret Santa Stall. 1-4pm. Henry Cavendish, Hydethorpe Rd, SW12 0JA 020 8673 3376 • Henrycavendish.co.uk Balham Community Carols and Tree Lights Switch-On Saturday 7th December From 4pm to 5pm there will be performances from South London Choir and Balham Ukulele Society as well as community carols. The Mayor of Wandsworth will be switching on the lights. Bedford Hill Place, Bedford Hill (next to Sainsbury’s) SW12 Wreath-making Workshops at Thrive’s Battersea Garden Saturday 7th- Sunday 8th December Join disability charity Thrive and learn how to make your own beautiful Christmas wreath. Thrive promises a jovial atmosphere and refreshments. Workshop £30, all materials provided. Booking essential. Battersea Park • 020 7720 2212 fundraising@thrive.org.uk • Thrive.org.uk The Five Minute Festival 2013 @ The Lost Theatre 9th to 14th December This showcase will feature ten companies per night showcasing their very best ½ve minute works in order to impress a live audience, a panel of judges, and online viewers at home. Heats £9/£6 conc. Final £10/£8 conc. 7.30pm LOST Theatre, 208 Wandsworth Rd SW8 2JU 020 7622 9208 • Losttheatre.co.uk

what’s on Boris and Sergey’s Vaudevillian Christmas Adventure - Theatre 503 Tuesday 10th December- Saturday 11th January Crossover cabaret featuring Bunraku Puppetry and character comedy for discerningly twisted adult audiences. Mon - Sat 7:30pm, Sunday 5pm Theatre 503, 503 Battersea Park Road 020 7978 7040 • Theatre503.com Meet Me In St Louis - The Landor Theatre Wednesday 11th December - Sunday 15th December UK premier of the Broadway musical based on the 1944 ½lm starring Judy Garland. A heart-warming and nostalgic Christmas musical including the number ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas’. The Landor Theatre, 70 Landor Road, Clapham SW9 9PH Light Up a Life - Trinity Hospice Thursday 12th December Remember those no longer with us. The lighting of the tree is at 6.45pm outside Trinity Hospice.You can then join the procession to Holy Trinity Church on Clapham Common for the service at 7.15pm. Wine and mince pies. Clapham Common • 020 77787 1012 Trinityhospice.org.uk Makers’ Market - Brixton Saturday 14th December 2nd Saturday of each month, you’ll ½nd the street full of handmade crafty bits, contemporary art and new fashion from independent designers and makers. 10am – 5pm. Brixton Station Road, SW9 Blackshaw’s Annual Kitsch Christmas Party 2013 - The Selkirk Saturday 14th December A festive fundraiser for Blackshaw Theatre – all welcome to enjoy live comedy, music, party games and a visit from Father Christmas himself! Pull on your paper crown and your most embarrassing festive jumper. Doors at 7pm, £3 entry The Selkirk, 60 Selkirk Road SW17 0ES Blackshawonline.com

Carol Service by Candlelight - Ascension Balham Hill Sunday 15th December 6pm Sing the festive favourites in a beautiful candle-lit atmosphere. Other services: All Age Carol Service, Sunday 22nd December, 10.30am; 6pm Beer & Carols

at The Grove; 11.30am Christmas Eve; 10.30am Christmas Day. Ascension Balham Hill, Malwood Road, Balham SW12 8EN 020 8675 8626 • Ascensionbalhamhill.org.uk Carol Service by Candlelight St Mary & St John the Divine Balham Sunday 22nd December 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight. Other services: Christmas Eve, 4pm Crib Service for children and families, 11.30pm Midnight Mass by candlelight; Christmas Day, 8am Eucharist; 10.30am Sung Eucharist, for the whole family. St Mary & St John the Divine, High Rd SW12 9BS 020 8673 1188 • Stmarybalham.org.uk Rotary Christmas Day - Battersea Park Wednesday 25th December Sunday 7th July Christmas Day lunch and tea party for the elderly people of Wandsworth. Join them either as a elderly guest, or as a volunteer for a fun ½lled Christmas Day! Battersea Park Marquee, SW11 4NJ Rotarychristmasday.org.uk The Bedford New Year’s Eve Party Tuesday December 31st Two fantastic options: 1) The Banana Cabaret NYE Special: John Moloney, Paul Tonkinson, Paul Thorne & John Fothergill £25 (advance only) 2) The Bedford NYE Party, DJ’s and dancing till 3am. Free ½zz on arrival – £15 on sale now. The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, Balham SW12 9HD 020 8682 8940 • TheBedford.co.uk Keep it clean! A Grubby History of Wandsworth To 25th January Just how dirty were the Tudors? Which disease washed down the Thames and killed thousands of Londoners in the 1830s? Adm £4 (£3 concs), Under 6s free. Wandsworth Museum 38 West Hill SW18 1RX 020 8870 6060 • Wandsworthmuseum.co.uk Storytime - Under the Greenwood Tree Every Saturday Don’t miss the magic of a storytime at this lovely Clapham Old Town cafe, toy and bookshop. Every Saturday at 11am. Under the Greenwood Tree, 11 The Polygon SW4 0JG 020 7627 4557 Underthegreenwoodtree.com

a-z directory The Essential Local Directory is designed to promote the use of local businesses, primarily independents If you’d like your business or organisation to be included here and on our online directory at EssentialBattersea.co.uk please email info@essentiallocal.com Accountants/Bookkeepers Tax Assist Accountants Get in touch for a free no` obligation quote. 020 7118 0402 niteshpatel@taxassist.co.uk

www.taxassist.co.uk

Cholij Accounting Ltd Accountancy and Tax Solutions, Raynes Park and Battersea 020 3393 5791 /4979

www.cholijaccounting.co.uk

Acupuncture – see Comp. Med

Ambulance

www.lotus-wellbeing-spa.com

Bathrooms & Kitchens

Balmain London Ltd 020 7223 6333 59 Broomwood Rd, SW11 6HU

www.balmainlondon.co.uk Force Homecare 020 8675 9866 22 Bedford Hill, SW12 9RG

www.diystoresbalham.co.uk

For emergency assist, call 999

B&B - see Hotels;

Art Galleries & Artists

Bicycle Sales & Repair

Cabinet Makers

Spaced In Spray ½nished, Bespoke Furniture, Beautifully built in. 07734 203 911 ben@spacedin.co.uk

www.spacedin.co.uk

Cafes

Sabor - The Latin Way Modern Latin American Bistro 2 Tooting Bec Road SW17 8BD 020 8767 3222

www.saborlondon.co.uk

Under the Greenwood Tree Books, Toys & Child-friendly Cafe 020 7627 4557 11 The Polygon, Clapham SW4 0JG

Andi Bunbury Original Watercolours for Children 07816 959179 andibunbury@gmail.com

Psubliminal Expert advice, sales & repair 020 8772 0707 17 Balham High Road, SW12 9AJ

www.andibunbury.co.uk

www.psubliminal.com

Cars - see Garages Cards - see Gifts and Cards; Carpenters - see Cabinet Makers

Webbs Road Fine Art 020 7223 1733 1 Burland Rd (Webbs Rd) Battersea SW11 6SA

Builders (Design & Build)

Charities & Volunteering

www.thewebbsgallery.co.uk Babysitters - see Childcare Bars - see Restaurants

Beauty Salons/ Treatments Francesca Alexander Hair & Beauty 020 7585 3330 53 Webbs Rd Battersea SW11 6RX

www.francescaalexander.co.uk

Lotus Spa Massage and Beauty Spa 020 8875 1199 535 Old York Road, SW18 1TG

Battersea Basement Co. 59 Broomwood Rd (End of Northcote Rd) SW11 6HU 020 7223 6333

Underthegreenwoodtree.co.uk

Wandsworth 020 8870 4319

www.wvsda.org.uk

Balmain London Ltd As above

Wandsworth Oasis Charity shops and fundraising to help support local people affected by HIV. 020 8769 3845

www.balmainlondon.co.uk

www.wandsworthoasis.org.uk

Poe Projects Project management specialists: design and build, electrical work and interiors. 020 7223 3286

Kids Love Lambeth Performing Russian classical ballet for children throughout Lambeth. 42 Clapham Manor St, SW4 6DZ 020 7498 0498

www.batterseabasements.co.uk

www.poeprojects.co.uk

Londonrussianballetschool.com

The Essential Local Directory is designed to allow small businesses to promote themselves cost-effectively and it costs just £120 to appear in both these listings and online at EssentialBattersea.co.uk for 12 months

a-z directory Chemists - see Pharmacies

Childcare

Likeminders 0844 879 7189 Babysitting, emergency childcare and nannies.

www.likeminders.co.uk Nappy Valley Nannies 020 8946 5320 75 Swaby Road, Earls½eld SW18 3PJ

www.nappyvalleynannies.co.uk

Childrens Activities/Courses Tutoring by GAW Advance through achievement From age 6 for Key Stage tests, GCSE and up to A level. 0844 357 9472

www.groovyartworkshops.co.uk Monkey Music Music classes: babies of 3mths-4yrs 020 8764 5185 Balham, Tooting, Streatham, Wandsworth and South½elds

www.monkeymusic.com

Under the Greenwood Tree Books, Toys & Child-friendly Cafe 020 7627 4557 11 The Polygon, Clapham SW4 0JG

Underthegreenwoodtree.co.uk South Thames College Further and Higher Education at Wandsworth, Tooting, Merton. 020 8918 7777 Wandsworth High St, SW18 2PP

www.south-thames.ac.uk

London Russian Ballet School Russian ballet training exclusively with Russian-trained teachers 42 Clapham Manor St, SW4 6DZ 020 7498 0498

Londonrussianballetschool.com

Cinemas

Cineworld Ltd 0871 200 2000 Wandsworth High St, SW18 4TF

www.cineworld.co.uk

Clapham Picturehouse 0871 902 5727 76 Venn Street SW4 0AT

www.picturehouses.co.uk

Cleaners & Cleaning Services

Time For You Vetted, police & reference-checked Domestic Cleaners. From £10.95ph. 0800 542 0920 swlondon@timeforyou.co.uk

www.timeforyou.co.uk/swlondon Clothing - see Fashion Comedy - see Restaurants/Pubs

Complementary Therapies Also see Healers

The Cleansing Place Colonic Hydrotherapy, Detox Plans, Re¾exology, Deep Tissue Massage, Reiki. Ear Candling 07881 425412 Chelsea/Balham

www.thecleansingplace.com

Computer Sales or Repair Computers Inc Laptop and PC repair, support and printer ink store 020 7099 4577 59 East Hill, SW18 2QE

www.computersinc.co.uk

Scooter Computer Ltd Friendly computer help, to your door 020 7384 5949 enquiries@scootercomputer.co.uk

www.scootercomputer.co.uk

Counsellors – see Psychotherapists Decorators - see Painters

Dentists

To ½nd a dentist: NHS Direct: 0845 46 47

www.nhs.uk/servicedirectories Dishwasher Repair. – see Dom’

DIY, Paint & Hardware

Force Homecare DIY and Paint Specialist: Little Greene, Sanderson and Paint and Paper Library 020 8675 9866 22 Bedford Hill, Balham SW12 9RG

www.forcehomecare.co.uk

Doctors - see Medical Dog Walkers/Courses - see Pets;

Domestic Appliance Repair MK Repair Centre 020 7223 6529 19 Cobham Close, SW11 6SP

www.mkrepaircentre.co.uk

Education and Tutoring

South Thames College Further and Higher Education. 020 8918 7777 Wandsworth High St, SW18 2PP

www.south-thames.ac.uk

Tutoring by GAW Advance through achievement From age 6 for Key Stage tests, GCSE and up to A level. 0844 357 9472

www.groovyartworkshops.co

Electricians/Electrical

MK Repair Centre 020 7223 6529 19 Cobham Close, SW11 6SP

www.mkrepaircentre.co.uk

Emergency Services Call 999 OR 112

Estate & Letting Agents Tate Residential (ARLA & NAEA Licensed) 020 7622 6914 16 Battersea Park Road Battersea SW8 4LS

www.tateresidential.co.uk

Samuel Estates (ARLA & NAEA Licensed) 020 8673 4666 38 Balham Hill Balham SW12 9EL

www.samuelestates.com

Jacksons Estate Agents (The Guild/Ombudsman)

Balham, Battersea, Earls½eld, Wandsworth, Tooting & Streatham. Call 020 8675 6565 115 Balham High Rd, SW12 9AP

www.jacksonsestateagents.com

Fashion & Clothing

Tutto Tuscany Hand-crafted Italian jewellery in Palladium, Gold & Bronze. Sat, Northcote Road Market

www.tuttotuscany.co.uk

If you would like to be included contact us at info@essentiallocal.com or on 020 8432 3441

a-z directory Wandsworth Council The Town Hall, Wandsworth High Street London, SW18 2PU www.wandsworth.gov.uk

Bespoke Attire Made-to-measure Suits, Shirts, Trousers, Coats, Dresses, etc 07590 675 244

www.bespokeattire.com

Financial Services

Tax Assist Accountants For a free no obligation quote please get in touch. 020 7118 0402 niteshpatel@taxassist.co.uk

www.taxassist.co.uk

David Thompson of Thompson Allen Financial Independent Financial Advice 020 8682 3083 / 07889 191093 david@thompsonallen

www.½nancial.co.uk

Fire Brigade

Call 999 or for non emergencies contact: 020 8555 1200

www.london-½re.gov.uk

Fitness 121 Personal Training Training and nutrition coaching in your home. Train with a family member or friend at no extra cost. 07881 884 738

www.121personaltraining.com Movers & Shapers Effective workouts in classes lasting just 30 mins (*free trial!) 020 8673 0808 63 Balham High Rd, SW12 9AP

www.moversandshapers.co.uk

Florists

The Flower Sanctuary Weddings, funerals, deliveries, gifts & cakes 020 8675 3799 8 Hildreth St, Balham SW12 9RQ

www.¾owersanctuary.co.uk

Lambeth Council

020 8871 6000

Town Hall Brixton Hill London, W2 1RWU www.lambeth.gov.uk

Framers

020 79261000

Webbs Road Fine Art 020 7223 1733 1 Burland Rd, Battersea SW11 6SA

Postmark 020 8675 7272 123 Balham High Rd, SW12 9AR 59 Nth Cross Rd, Dulwich SE22 9ET

www.thewebbsgallery.co.uk

www.postmarkonline.co.uk

Furniture & Antiques

Healing

Criterion Auctions Buying, selling, valueing art, antiques and contemporary furnishings. 020 7228 5563 41 - 47 Chat½eld Road SW11 3SE

www.criterionauctioneers.com

Garage/Motor Repairs

GSF Motorworks Car servicing workshop. 020 7819 9555 Unit E & F London Stone Biz Estate, Broughton St, Battersea SW8 3QR

www.gsfmotorworks.co.uk

Garden Centres

Battersea Flower Station 07811 334 908 16 Winders Rd Battersea SW11 3HE

Battersea¾owerstation.co.uk

Garden Design & Gardeners Henrietta Gentilli Garden Design. Specialising in the design of town gardens 07711 652992/020 8675 8411 designs@henriettagentilli.co.uk

www.henriettagentilli.co.uk

Gifts & Cards

The Inside Man Luxury gifts for men 020 8682 3834 30 Bellevue Rd, Wandsworth

www.theinsideman.co.uk

Andi Bunbury Original Watercolours for Children 07816 959179 andibunbury@gmail.com

www.andibunbury.co.uk

Pippa Neve Healer & Indigo Essence Practitioner 020 8767 1292/07932 697938 Eswyn Road, Tooting, SW17 8TN

www.pippaneve.com

Relax and Float Releve pain and reduce stress with three ¾oats for £95. Christian Fields, SW16 3JY www.relaxand¾oat.co.ukt

Hairdressers

Francesca Alexander hair & beauty 020 7924 3459 53 Webbs Road SW11 6RX

www.francescaalexander.co.uk Zenobia 020 7350 2017 115 Falcon Road, Battersea SW11 2PE Homeopathy – see Comp. Therapies

Hotels & Bed & Breakfast Balham B&B 020 8673 7179 28 Old Devonshire Road Balham SW12 9RB

www.balhambandb.co.uk

Hypnotherapy

Also see Comp. Therapies Keith Bibby (UKCP Psychotherapist) 020 8673 6311 49 Klea Avenue Clapham Common SW4 9HG

www.hypno-psychotherapylondon.com

Support local businesses and please let them know you found them in Essential Local

a-z directory Interiors & Design Force Homecare Paint Specialist: Little Greene, Sanderson, Paint and Paper Library 020 8675 9866 22 Bedford Hill, Balham SW12 9RG

www.forcehomecare.co.uk Jewellery - see Fashion Job Training - see Training Kitchens - see Bathrooms

Language Classes Friendly Spanish 020 7193 9707/079 0560 5513 Old Town, Clapham, SW4 0JY

www.friendlyspanish.co.uk

Leisure Centres & Facilities Balham Leisure Centre 020 8772 9577 Elm½eld Rd, Balham SW17 8AN Battersea Sports Centre 020 8871 8529 Hope St, Battersea SW11 2DA Latchmere Leisure Centre 020 7207 8004 Burns Road, Battersea SW11 5AD Tooting Leisure Centre 020 8333 7555 Greaves Pl, Tooting SW17 0NE Battersea Park Mill’ Arena 020 8871 7537 Albert Bridge Road, SW11 4NJ Clapham Cmmn Facilities 020 7223 9837 Windmill Drive, Clapham SW4 9DE

Live Music

Massage - Therapeautic Also see Comp. Therapies Lotus Spa 020 8875 1199 Massage and Beauty Spa 535 Old York Road, Wandsworth SW18 1TG

www.lotus-wellbeing-spa.com Lavender Hill Siam Beauty 020 7585 1222 119 & 12 Lavender Hill, Battersea SW11 3RD

www.lavenderhillbeauty.com Minicab – see Taxis

Medical Services

For Doctor/Dentist/Facility visit the website below For urgent but non life-threatening conditions call 111

www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

Pets

Pawsome Puppies Puppy Training and Socialisation 07824 159 542 info@pawesome.co.uk

www.pawesome.co.uk

David Cuffe & Associates Veterinary surgery 020 8772 9922 52 Abbeville Road Clapham SW4 9NF

www.cuffevets.com

Pharmacies

Battersea Pharmacy Health & Beauty Retailer & Independent Pharmacy of the Year 020 7228 3184 62 Northcote Road SW11 1PA

Photographers

Tooting Walk-In Centre 020 8700 0505 Treatment & emergency contraception. 7am-8.30pm. Clare House, St George’s Hospital, Blackshaw Rd Tooting SW17 0QT

Robbie’s Photographics Photographic art & studio: location shots, weddings, courses, portraits, portfolios & makeovers 020 8767 4222 8 Ritherdon Rd, Balham SW17 8QD

Motor Repairs - see Garages Nannies - see Childcare Nutritionist - see Fitness

Plumbers & Heating Engineers

Of½ce Supplies & Furniture The New Hurleys 020 8772 8223 9 The Boulevard Balham High Rd SW17 7BW

www.hurleysofbalham.com

Paint Specialists and DIY

The Bedford Live music, Club Nights, Comedy, Food, Drink and Events 0208 682 8940 77 Bedford Hill Balham SW12 9HD

Force Homecare DIY & Paint Specialist: Little Greene, Sanderson & Paint & Paper Library 020 8675 9866 22 Bedford Hill, Balham, SW12 9RG

www.thebedford.com

www.forcehomecare.co.uk

Locksmiths

Painters & Decorators

Cobbold Locksmiths 24-hour Emergency Mobile Service 07769 690439/020 8395 6586 Southwest London

Poe Projects Interior design projects and painting/decorating jobs of all sizes 020 7223 3286

www.cobboldlocksmiths.com

Personal Training – See Fitness

www.poeprojects.co.uk

www.robbiesphotographics.com Hamilton Heating Balham-based ‘Gas Safe’ registered plumbers and central heating experts 020 8675 5745/07890 662 713

www.hamiltonheating.com

Police For emergency assistance, call 999 OR 112 or for general enquiries contact: Metropolitan Police 0300 123 1212

ww.met.police.uk

Battersea Police Station 112 -118 Battersea Bridge Rd Wandsworth Police Station 146 Wandsworth High Street Lavender Hill Police Station 176 Lavender Hill Clapham Police Station 51 Union Grove

If you would like to be included contact us at info@essentiallocal.com or on 020 8432 3441

a-z directory Helplines & Information Wandsworth Careline: health/social services 020 8875 0500 www.careline.org.uk NHS Direct: 24hour con½dential info & advice 0845 4647 www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Samaritans: con½dential 24-hour support 0845 790 9090 www.samaritans.org Patient Advice and Liaison Service: 020 8355 2980 www.pals.nhs.uk Sexual Health and Information Line: 24-hour 0800 567 123 Childline: 24hour con½dential advice for children 0800 1111 www.childline.org.uk National Alcohol Helpline 0800 917 8282 Stop Smoking Service (Wandsworth): 0800 389792 www.smokefreewandsworth.nhs.uk Frank – Drugs Advice and Information 0800 77 66 00 Relateline: relationship info & support 0300 100 1234 www.relate.org.uk Parentline Plus: parenting help & advice 0808 800 2222 www.parentlineplus.org.uk Gamcare: for those affected by gambling 0845 600 0133 www.gamcare.org.uk

Post Of½ces

Property - see Estate Agents

Renting Out a Room

08457 223344 Balham Hill Westbury Parade, Balham Hill SW12 9DZ; Cedars 41 Queenstown Road, Battersea SW8 3RE; Clapham Common 161 - 163 Clapham High Street SW4 7ST; Alfriston Road 99 Alfriston Road; Battersea SW11 6NP; Battersea 202 Lavender Hill, SW11 1AB; St Johns Hill 7 The Parade SW11 1TG.

Psychotherapists

London Hospitality Placing professionals from Western Europe in your spare room. Earn £500pm per room. 020 8835 0177

Printing Services

Removals

Essential Local Flyers, brochures, magazines, letterheads, business cards. 020 8432 3441 Wandsworth Common

www.essentiallocal.com

Shelter: help with housing problems 0808 800 4444 www.shelter.org.uk National Debtline: free advice 0808 808 4000 www.nationaldebtline.co.uk SeniorLine: con½dential help for the elderly 0808 800 6565 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 200 0247 nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk Rape & Sexual Abuse Support: con½dential 01962 848 029 www.rasac.org.uk NSPCC Child Protection: Suspect abuse? 0808 800 5000 www.nspcc.org.uk Childcare Link: info on local childcare 0800 2346 346 www.childcarelink.org.uk Community Legal Service Direct: free info 0845 345 4345 www.communitylegaladvice.org.uk Learndirect: info on learning and careers 0800 100 901 www.learndirect.co.uk Disability Information and Advice Line (DIAL) 0130 231 0123 www.dialuk.info Citizens Advice (Wandsworth Advice Service) 020 8682 3766 (enquiries) www.citizensadvice.org.uk Transport for London 0843 222 1234 www.t¾.gov.uk AA Roadwatch: traf½c/weather info (non-free) 0906 888 4322 www.theaa.com

Keith Bibby UKCP Psychotherapist 020 8673 6311 49 Klea Avenue Clapham Common SW4 9HG

hypno-psychotherapy -london.com

Reiki – see Healers Re¾exology – see Comp. Therapy Moving Home Company Ltd 020 7924 4700 1 Grant Road SW11 2HD ½az@movinghomecompany.co.uk

www.movinghomecompany.co.uk

www.bblondon.com

Restaurants, Pubs & Bars Mezé Kitchen Greek Restuarant, Bar and Grill 020 8772 9772 37 Bedford Hill, Balham SW12 9EY

www.mezekitchen.co.uk

Sabor - The Latin Way Modern Latin American Bistro 2 Tooting Bec Road SW17 8BD 020 8767 3222

www.saborlondon.co.uk

Support local businesses and please let them know you found them in Essential Local

a-z directory The Bedford Live music, Club Nights, Comedy, Food, Drink and Events 020 8682 8940 77 Bedford Hill Balham SW12 9HD

www.thebedford.com

The Three Monkeys Cocktail and Karaoke Bar 020 8673 4447 5 Fernlea Rd, Balham SW12 9RT

www.the3monkeysbar.co.uk

Spas - See Beauty

Sports Shops & Activities Also see Leisure Facilities

Capstick Sports 020 7228 7814 84 Northcote Road SW11 6QN

www.capsticksports.co.uk

Stationery - See Of½ce Supplies Tailoring – see Clothing

The Lost Angel - Bar, Restaurant & Boozer! ‘ 020 7622 2112 339 Battersea Park Road London SW11 4LS

Taxis & Private Hire

Harrison’s Bar & Restaurant 020 8675 6900 15-19 Bedford Hill, SW12 9EX

Theatres

www.lostangel.co.uk

www.harrisonsbalham.co.uk Indian Moment 020 7223 6575 47 Northcote Rd SW11 1NJ

www.indianmoment.com

Indian Room 020 8675 8611 59 Bedford Hill, Balham SW12 9EZ

www.indianroom.co.uk

Gurkhas Traditional Nepalese cuisine 020 8675 1188 1 The Blvard, Balham High Rd, Balham SW17 7BW

Leo Private Hire 020 8682 4466 22 Trinity Road SW17 7RE

Battersea Arts Centre 020 7223 2223 Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN

www.bac.org.uk

Theatre 503 Above Latchmere Pub 020 7978 7040 503 Battersea Park Rd, SW11 3BW

www.theatre503.co.uk

Landor Theatre 020 7737 7276 70 Landor Rd, Clapham SW9 9PH

www.lawworksclinics.org.uk

Experience Travel Group Sri Lanka and South East Asia 020 3598 2077 209 St John’s Hill Battersea SW11 1TH

www.experiencetravelgroup.com Tutoring - see Education Vets - See Pets Washing Machine Repair – see Domestic Appliances

Website Design

Essential Local Cost-effective website design for small businesses 020 8432 3441

www.essentiallocal.com

Window Cleaners

Windows – Sash

Toys

Battersea Legal Advice Centre Free legal advice. 020 7585 0716 125 Bolingbroke Grove, SW11 1DA

Travel Agents

Therapy

www.unuseditems.com

Solicitors & Legal Advice

Pitman-training.com/clapham

Therapists - see Psychotherapis

www.landortheatre.co.uk

Second-hand Sales

UnusedItems.com Reach thousands of buyers in a few easy steps. Locally based.

Pitman Training Clapham Junction 0333 577 3035 1st Floor, 50 Northcote Rd Battersea SW11 1PA

Renee MG Window Cleaning Ltd 020 8676 4261/07951 321 563 South West London reneemgltd@gmail.com

Relax and Float Releve pain and reduce stress with three ¾oats for £95. Christian Fields, SW16 3JY www.relaxand¾oat.co.ukt

www.gurkhasdiner.co.uk

Job Training/Quali½cations

Under the Greenwood Tree Books, Toys and Child-friendly Cafe 020 7627 4557 11 The Polygon, Clapham SW4 0JG

Underthegreenwoodtree.co.uk

Wandsworth Sash Windows Traditional timber, double-glazed, draught proo½ng, overhaul, sliding 020 7924 7303 125 Lavender Hill, Battersea

Wandsworthsashwindows.com

Wine

The Wine Tasting Shop Independent Tastings and Sales 020 8616 8658 18 HIldreth St, Balham SW12 9RQ

www.thewinetastingshop.co.uk

For further information regarding Essential Local, please email info@essentiallocal.com or call 020 8432 3441 If you would like to be included contact us at info@essentiallocal.com or on 020 8432 3441

ANSWERS from page 20 1) 1877 Prisoners • 2) “The Gateway to the South” • 3) Pigs (Kune Kune) • 4) The Bedford, Bedford Hill • 5) 2000 Trains • 6) Model Boating • 7) Battersea Power Station • 8) Jane Ellison of the Conservative Party • 9) The Falconbrook • 10) A) Adorned with ivy