ISSUE 141 • JUNE 2017
FEATURING
MEMORY LANE KINGSWOOD
The new Golf with £1,000 towards your finance deposit. 4.9% APR Representative. Available when purchased with Solutions Personal Contract Plan.*
Drift Bridge Volkswagen Reigate Road, Epsom, KT17 3LA. Telephone: 01737 303 259. www.driftbridge.volkswagen.co.uk
Drift Bridge Garage Limited is a broker and not a lender and can introduce you to a limited number of lenders, who may pay us for introducing you to them. *At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) pay the optional final payment and own the vehicle; ii) return the vehicle: subject to excess mileage and fair wear and tear, charges may apply; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle. With Solutions Personal Contract Plan. 18s+. Subject to availability and status. T&Cs apply. Offer available when ordered by 2nd July 2017 and delivered by 30th September, 2017. Indemnities may be required. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Accurate at time of publication. Freepost Volkswagen Financial Services. Standard EU Test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Official fuel consumption figures for the new Golf range in mpg (litres/100km): urban 29.4 (9.6) – 68.9 (4.1); extra urban 44.8 (6.3) – 76.3 (3.7); combined 37.7 (7.5) – 72.4 (3.9). Combined CO2 emissions 180 – 102/km.
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION R e g i s t e r e d T H E
C h a r i t y
V I L L A G E
L A N E ,
H A L L ,
K I N G S W O O D
N o .
2 7 5 1 8 7
WAT E R H O U S E K T 2 0
6 E B
Chairman
Bob Gunn Kingsdene, Furze Hill, Kingswood KT20 6EP Tel: 01737 360035 Email: bob@gunn.org Secretary Michael Hannah, 1 Lilley Drive, Kingswood KT20 6JA Tel: 01737 830893 Email: mehannah@tiscali.co.uk Treasurer Roger Dring Garden End, Motts Hill Lane, Tadworth KT20 5BE Tel: 01737 813719 Email: rpdring@greenbee.net Committee Members: Rosemary Akerman Tel: 01737 830257 Sally Fish Tel: 01737 832176 George Ferguson Tel: 01737 833329 James Chatfield Tel: 01737 353248 Penny Chatfield Tel: 01737 353248 Peter Wormald Tel: 01737 832866 KADDS Judy Par nall Tel: 01737 830888 Hall Bookings Penny Chatfield Tel: 01737 353248 (Strictly between 5pm and 8pm, Monday to Friday only) Hall Manager Kay Shah Tel: 01737 351989 Mobile: 07950 899456 Life President KVCA Sir Brian Hill Life President KADDS Lady Janet Hill The Village Voice Editor Richard Milbour n 3 Mount Hill, Mogador, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7HZ Tel; 01737 222307 Email: richard.milbour n@car nah.co.uk The print run for The Village Voice is 1,600 copies and it is delivered free to all households and businesses in Kingswood. The Village Voice is published four times a year: March/September/September/December with copy dates of 31st January, 30th April, 31st July and 31st October. Statements and opinions in The Village Voice, unless expressly written, are not necessarily those of the Kingswood Village Community Association. Material in The Village Voice may not be reproduced in any form without the permission of the Editor.
JUNE 2017 3
CONTENTS JUNE 2017 KVCA Contacts Yo u r C h a i r m a n ’s N o t e s The Story Behind No 12 Memory Lane Kingswood News From KADDS Sarah Lott - Where the Hell is ‘X”? Profile - James Jackson Legends Delight Again Kingswood Residents Association Thirteen Society The Church In Kingswood Photograph Competition Kingswood Village WI Te c h n o l o g y A n n D o b s o n ’s R e c i p e s Flower Arrangement Group Tr a v e l - S i c i l y a n d t h e A e o l i a n I s l a n d s Local Business - Cheam Windows K i n g s w o o d L a w n Te n n i s C l u b P a t ’s G a r d e n D i a r y Yo u r L o c a l C h a r i t i e s - Q E F NSPCC - Forthcoming Events Writers’ Corner Charities - Charity Action List Advertisers Index
Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page
3 7 8 12 17 21 24 26 29 31 33 37 38 41 42 45 47 50 55 56 58 61 62 65 66
We stock a wide range of knitting yarns including Rico, Patons, Kingcole, Wendy, Peter Pan, Robin plus a large selection of baby yarns and DMC stranded cottons. We also have a wide range of knitting pins, crochet hooks, circular needles,
FOR DETAILS OF WORKSHOPS CHECK WEBSITE AND SHOP
4 JUNE 2017
Opening Hours Mon to Sat 10-16.30 (Wed 10-13.00)
www.whichcraftwools.co.uk Tel: 0208 643 3211 or email: angela.macadam@btopenworld.com 7 Station Way, Cheam Village, Surrey SM3 8SD
Tadworth_pfw 13/10/2016 10:33 Page 5
Tadworth_pfw 13/10/2016 10:34 Page 39
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Y O U R
C H A I R M A N ’ S
N O T E S
I
am delighted, if a little daunted, to take over the leadership of the KVCA.
Brian Hill leaves big shoes to fill after many years steering our association so successfully, and Rosemary Akerman has done a very valuable job filling
that role, despite difficult personal circumstances, since Brian stepped down last August. My main aim is to sustain and promote a real community spirit in Kingswood. We are fortunate to live in a beautiful part of Britain, with easy access to fantastic countryside and to all the entertainments that London offers. However, we also have within our village wonderful amenities which can
add greatly to the quality of our lives. We have Kingswood businesses, sporting clubs, community associations, charities and churches all of which give us ways of working and socialising together. The KVCA exists to foster this spirit of Kingswood community. We do this primarily by running our Village Hall and by producing and distributing Village Voice. Through our drama group, KADDS, we also stage high quality plays and musical performances through the year. We want the Village Hall to be the natural place for Kingswood people to hold meetings and celebrations and to offer dance, drama and exercise sessions. We’ve recently added a state-of-the-art audio-visual system to make the Hall an even more versatile venue. Please contact our friendly Hall Bookings Secretary, Penny Chatfield 01737 353248 to find out how it could suit your meeting or party. Village Voice provides a fantastic way of reaching every house in Kingswood. Your club or association probably already has its regular article. If it doesn’t, please contact Editor Richard Milbourn. And if you are involved in a business which wants to reach this valuable audience, Richard is also your man. Important though advertisements are, we have a policy that they should be balanced by an equal amount of ‘content’, and I hope that you find the reports, articles, advice, stories and poems we include both interesting and informative. If you would like to write something for Village Voice, please let me know. The work of the KVCA is done by a dedicated committee of Michael Hannah (Secretary), Roger Dring (Treasurer), Rosemary Akerman, James Chatfield, Penny Chatfield, Sally Fish, George Ferguson and Peter Wormald. Their efforts were applauded at the KVCA AGM held in April, as were the contributions of Hall Manager Kartik Shah and Editor Richard Milbourn. The AGM also specifically thanked our Borough Councillor Simon Parnall who masterminded and helped to fund the new Hall AV System. Another valued supporter of the KVCA, financially and in other ways, has been our County Councillor, Michael Gosling. Michael has recently stood down from his role and we thank him for his efforts for Kingswood while in office. I am sure that he will continue to be actively involved in our community. The following pages showcase the many, many things happening in the community of Kingswood. Do get involved and take advantage of what our village has to offer, here on our own doorstep! n Bob Gunn, Chairman KVCA
JUNE 2017 7
T H E
S T O R Y
B E H I N D
N O
1 2
THE STORY BEHIND No12 Not every resident of Kingswood realises that Chris Lambert started a new restaurant and bar in Kingswood last October. With a head chef from Claridges Hotel, Chris wants to make No12 a hub for Kingswood people where you can pop in for a drink, have something to nibble, a light lunch or a special dinner. Chris will tell you about it in his own words.
8 JUNE 2017
L
et me share a frequently asked question: Chris Lambert ...Why does an ex precious metals trader and retired company chairman, with zero experience of the catering industry, start a new career as a shareholder of a start-up restaurant? Answer: I'm obviously bonkers! I now know what a extremely hard business it is and, no matter which restaurant or café I now dine in, I take my hat off to all the staff and look at them with admiration. However, I digress, how often in life does one get the opportunity to turn a lifetime ambition into reality? Over the past 40 years I’ve been lucky enough to eat in some of the finest and, I must confess, also some pretty awful restaurants, on every continent around the world. In fact I’ve
T H E
even had a burger in Pyongyang, North Korea but that’s another story. Yet again I digress, but once you get to know me you’ll understand! Let me share the No12 recipe with you: One good pinch of the best ambiance you can remember One large teaspoon of great produce. One extra-large ladle of a very talented chef. A good slug of a pretty good wine list A tablespoon of friendly front of house staff. Lovingly blend and bake at 400o F for 45 minutes and fini! ‌ No12 Restaurant Kingswood! In every business I have run, I have believed in the importance of a team and No12 is no different. I'm so lucky to have employed our head chef Jason Marchant who is not only a passionate, talented chef but over the past year of building this restaurant together is now my great friend. He, in return, has built a team of talented chefs and created a wonderful menu which we are all proud of. Jason joined us after 12 years of working in London at the world famous Claridges Hotel.
S T O R Y
B E H I N D
N O
1 2
Whilst at Claridges he worked alongside soux chef Gareth MacDonald who has been with us since our opening. Jason and Gareth have a fantastic working relationship, culinary understanding and a strong friendship which, trust me, is very much needed on busy hot nights in the kitchen. This relationship is the foundation of the work ethos of the whole kitchen team, which sets the precedent for the entire restaurant. Our friendly front of house team are lead by our managers Michele and Natasha. We have a great, young, friendly team supporting them and not forgetting Marius our barman/mixologist who has worked in a number of bars and hotels around the world, so if you fancy a dry vodka martini with a twist, or a Mojito, pop in and ask him to make you whatever tickles your fancy. Jason, Natasha, Michele along with the rest of the team and I all want to make No12 a hub for Kingswood people, their friends and family to meet, without having to travel far and wide. We are looking to provide somewhere C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 1 0
JUNE 2017 9
T H E
S T O R Y
B E H I N D
N O
1 2
C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 9
friendly for you to pop in for a drink, or something to nibble, a light lunch or a special super dinner. Why not give us a try? Drop by for a glass of wine or an early evening gin and tonic or a cocktail and watch the world walk by. Alternatively, why not join us for a pre-theatre drink or supper before moving on to the Village Hall? Our lunchtime menu is varied to suit all appetites, whether you are hungry and wanting a hearty cottage pie or just fancy a bowl of fresh homemade soup. We have something to suit all tastes. On our a la carte menu, which is not too large so as to ensure all the dishes are cooked to order, you can start with our home cured beetroot salmon or the most wonderful chicken liver parfait. For mains, pan fried sea bass or a succulent braised lamb neck fillet. Everything from A to Z – from Apple Sauce to Zabaglione – is made on the premises by our chefs from the freshest and best quality produce we can find.
We would love to see you all over the coming months and hope we can become that special place for friends and family alike to catch up and have fun in Kingswood. Chris Lambert No12 Bar & Restaurant, 12 Waterhouse Lane, Kingswood KT20 6EB. Tel 01737 351157 www.no12 restaurant.co.uk
Friendly, Local, Professional Service All types of tree work undertaken z Pruning / Felling z Hedgerow Management z Stump Removal z Planting Design and Planting z Logs Supplied
Contact us for a free estimate:
Tel: 01306 611661 Mobile: 07940 197911 Email: info@davefordtreecare.co.uk Or visit: www.davefordtreecare.co.uk
10 JUNE 2017
Hay Fever Gala Night KADDS presents a special Gala Night Offer for its coming production of Noel Coward’s comedy ‘Hay Fever’, on Friday 2 June. In conjunction with No12 Restaurant we invite you to a dress for the occasion a enjoy a Prosecco and a delicious two-course meal before the show a with your early copy of the programme a and then make your way to your reserved seats for the performance a all for the combined price of only £35 per head. Proprietor Chris Lambert and chef Jason Marchant will welcome you to No12 between 5.30 and 6.30pm and Jason has created a special menu which you can see at www.no12restaurant.co.uk/events-view/hay-fever-pre-theatre-menu. They will make sure that you can be on your way to the Hall no later than 7.45pm. Seats on the raised staging will be reserved for those taking advantage of the Gala Night Offer. So, why not get together a group of friends, dress to impress and make a Gala Night of it? You will experience some remarkably good food served by the friendly new team at No12, see top quality KADDS acting in a popular comedy displaying Coward’s acerbic wit – and all without having to leave Kingswood!
If you would like to book for the Gala Night Offer please contact Bob Gunn on 01737 360035 or bob@gunn.org If you can’t get to the Gala Night on Friday 2 June, but would like to enjoy the same deal, please also contact Bob Gunn who will make similar arrangements for you on Thursday 1 June or Saturday 3 June.
JUNE 2017 11
M E M O R Y
L A N E
MEMORY LANE KINGSWOOD Some weeks ago I was sitting next to Wendy Lang at the annual 13 Society lunch and she got to talking about her early days in Kingswood with husband John and family. I thought it was fascinating! So I asked her to write it as an article for Village Voice. I think this could be the start of an occasional series. What are your memories of Kingswood? What brought you here? What have you got involved with? And how has Kingswood changed? Please contact me if you would like to follow up Wendy’s initial memories. Bob Gunn
I
was asked recently how long had I lived in
understand they have been sold to a
Kingswood and had there been many
developer.
changes. It got me thinking. My husband
Our daughter joined the Brownie group
and I with our two children 7 and 9 yrs
which met in the Church Hall or, on better
moved to Kingswood from Banstead 38 years
summer evenings, in one of the Brownie’s
ago. We fell in love with the cottage style
gardens. Our son loved our large garden and
house built in 1937. It was set in a large
with his Chinthurst friends spent many happy
garden, as many were in those days. Now
hours building tree houses in our small wood.
many of these original houses have been
They camped and created their own fun.
demolished and much larger houses built,
Several friends had swimming pools and the
often two or more on the one plot. Many
boys would be off on their bikes. There were
beautiful rhododendrons, mature trees and
no houses in the Warren Lodge and Birch
some most attractive houses have been the
Grove area and this was great for exploring!
casualties.
There were no home computers, and the first
We had only been here a short time when I
we saw in our house was the ZX 81. Quite a
was invited to a newcomers coffee morning
novelty then, fun, but not so much part of our
while my husband was doing his daily
lives as now.
commute to the city. This invitation came from
During the Christmas holidays a lady in The
the “Hospitality Committee” which was a
Chase organized carol singing groups for
group of about ten ladies from around
charity. After a cold trudge around the roads
Kingswood and organized by the then vicar’s
we went back to her house for hot soup.
wife. In those days newcomers were invited to
Another Kingswood lady in The Glade
a committee member’s home to meet other
organized badminton sessions in the hall at
new arrivals. I was later to join the Hospitality
Chinthurst School and a dance. These were for
Committee myself. We were involved in parish
the young teen-agers, overseen by parents,
activities such as the Christmas Carol
again for charity. They were a wonderful way
Service, the Harvest Lunch and the Church
for the older children to meet and make new
annual garden fete. This was held, weather
friends.
permitting, in the vicarage garden. Sadly the vicarage and its garden are now no more. I
12 JUNE 2017
Not everyone had a car, but in those early C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 1 4
Just off the A217 near Woodhatch
Possibly the largest display of Garden Furniture in the South East, including all the latest designs with little or no maintenance. All at unbeatable prices! 143 Sandcross Lane, South Park, Reigate RH2 8HH
01737 248188 www.reigategardencentre.co.uk
M E M O R Y
L A N E
C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 2
eventually “released”! In fact there were not so
days we had a village with shops. I don’t
many hedges and fences at all. Kingswood
remember there being any problems about
was very much more open. The roads were
parking as there are today. Yellow lines did not
much quieter. Our children were always out on
exist, but are now deemed essential. We had a
their bicycles and we had few concerns about
small supermarket where the No 12 Bar &
them when off to visit friends.
Restaurant is today and next door was The
Of course we had our friendly milkman with
Stores. This sold almost anything from a few
a delivery every day, as did most people. He
screws, paints, smaller kitchen items and
carried other supplies as well as the dairy
many more things for the do-it-yourself fan. It
products. He was with us until he retired as
was a treasure trove of everyday items. There
was the next one, but by then the delivery had
was a greengrocer, a butcher, a chemist, a
dropped to just three days a week. Each
hairdresser, even a small haberdasher run by
summer I remember we had a man come with
two local ladies. We had two banks, Lloyds
his especially adapted van to sharpen garden
and Barclays, and a petrol station where the
tools, scissors etc. One got to know these
new flats now exist next to the Village Hall. We
tradesmen. They were friendly and helpful. In
do still have the paper shop which continues
the bad weather I had a hot drink ready for
to deliver papers and encompasses the Post
them.
Office. It looked a little different then with
I collected for several charities and I got to
sweets in big glass jars and there were small
know most people living down our long road.
toys, very useful as Christmas stocking fillers.
Most knew me and it was a good opportunity
We used to see the mounted police at times.
to stop for a chat!
I think they came from stables over the other
Sadly it is inevitable that over the years
side of Epsom Downs. We had our own local
there have been many changes for various
policeman. He and his wife lived in Kingswood
reasons. Several local groups have stood the
and were both involved in the village activities
test of time and remain popular. The Tennis
like the shows in the Village Hall and the WI .
Club, WI , Probus, The 13 Society (which has
He was often seen riding his bicycle and we
been meeting since it was started at the end
knew he was there if we needed his
of the war), the Church and the KADDS shows
professional help…..always a friendly face.
in the village hall, all continue to bring the
We had a postman who we knew by Christian name. He was the eyes and ears of
residents together. Those who lived here before we came will
what was happening locally. We had two
have seen even more changes. It has been
deliveries per day in the early years. He would
called progress .....the busy roads,
ride his bicycle right up to the front door and
supermarkets and “on
mail was delivered safely, unlike today when
line” living. We just
post boxes situated on the front gate are so
hope that the lovely,
vulnerable. Apart from the few five bar country
peaceful Kingswood
gates, drives were open. Access to front doors
which we have so
was no problem. I know of two occasions
enjoyed over these 38
recently when someone delivering managed
years will not change
to get in, but they were unable to get out
too much in the future.
again, the gate having closed. They were
n Wendy Lang
14 JUNE 2017
K A D D S
FEVER PITCH Diary Dates: Our Spring Play ‘Hay Fever’ one of Noel Coward’s finest comedies, will be directed by William McKee Thursday 1st- Saturday 3rd June 8pm. Set in the 1920s, 4 eccentric members of the Bliss family each invite a guest to stay at their Manor House over the weekend – you will be in for a treat, as their behaviour becomes more and more outlandish and the tale unfolds! KADDS performed this play in 2001 and it was hugely successful! This time round we have a completely different cast, who will no doubt delight our audiences – so come along and enjoy a great night out. Tickets priced at £10 for Adults and £5 for children are available from Londis, Waterhouse Lane or online www.KADDS.ticketsource.co.uk Box office 0333 6663366. A ‘Gala Night’ is being offered on Friday 2nd June, so why not treat yourself. Get dressed up, enjoy a two-course pre-theatre dinner at No
12 Restaurant with a glass of prosecco, followed by top quality KADDS acting in a popular comedy displaying Coward’s acerbic wit. All for the combined price of £35 and without having to leave Kingswood! If you would like to book for the Gala Night Offer please contact Bob Gunn on 01737 360035 or bob@gunn.org Alternatively, one of our excellent village restaurants will be supporting KADDS by offering a special 10% discount on pre-show meals... so why not treat your family to a slap up meal beforehand! Khyber Tandoori - 01737 352813 Please present your theatre ticket at the restaurant on arrival. Our Autumn Play will be Thursday 26th October – Saturday 28th October inclusive and directed by Sally Franklin – audition dates and further details to follow. It’s been a busy time these past few months: At the end of February Dick Palmer organised a theatre trip to The Criterion to see ‘The Comedy About a Bank Robbery’. Transport was arranged to and from Kingswood. Look out for details of future trips and let us know if there’s something you’re particularly interested in. C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 1 9
JUNE 2017 17
Tadworth_pfw 13/10/2016 10:34 Page 22
C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 7
In March, KADDS enjoyed a one day workshop run by David Riley from the House of Fun Theatre Group on ‘Finding a character’ watch this space for future such events! In April – we had a Hall clear out organised by Bob Gunn – you will hopefully see some benefit from our work such as a general tidy up of the car park and washrooms, some of the other improvements will not be as outwardly noticeable but will benefit the general running of the hall, cataloguing of sets/ props and general storage. We will endeavour to make further improvements and have a list we are working through – any offers of help are greatly appreciated!
We also enjoyed the KADDS KVCA AGM Fish and Chip Supper during which, we were treated to a slide show of performances ‘gone by’ at the beginning of the evening and during our supper on the Hall’s new audio-visual equipment. We are always looking for new talent to be involved in future productions – be it on stage in front of tabs, or backstage with costumes, make-up, props etc. If you are interested, or would like to be added to our database to be kept up to date with future performances, please get in touch. Wishing you all an enjoyable summer, and we look forward to welcoming you to future productions! n Rachel Ruddmore (07771 555044)
JUNE 2017 19
Luxury as standard. Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms honestly priced. w "1>?;:-85?10 :; ;.853-@5;: W 01?53: w D<1>@ 5:?@-88-@5;: .E ;A> 4-:0<5/710 =A-85Å&#x2039;10 @1-9 w %<1/5-85?@ <>;0A/@ 7:;C81031 w ->12A88E 9-:-310 2>;9 /;:/1<@ @; /;9<81@5;:
020 8660 9287
/;A8?0;:4;914->0C->1 /; A7 | VV 45<?@1-0 (-881E $0 ;A8?0;: $Y V$ ?53:-@A>14;91?8@0 ;>3 | UY[. ;A8?0;: $0 !80 ;A8?0;: $Y U
S A R A H
L O T T
WHERE THE HELL IS ‘ X ’?
T
he room was
place at the front. She seemed so far away
huge. There were
that it was difficult for Ruth to hear what was
rows and rows of
being said. She picked up something about
wooden desks
the seriousness of the occasion, the need for
stretching forward until
silence and the perils that would befall anyone
they disappeared into tiny
caught looking at their neighbour’s desk or
dots in the distance. Ruth
interacting in any way. She thought she heard
looked around her. She was floating in a sea
something about prosecution and going to
of desks. Chairs scraped on the wooden floor,
prison but perhaps she was mistaken.
setting her teeth on edge. The windows were
After a few minutes of warnings and
at a high level and the tops of green-black fir
information about fire alarms and time
trees were pointing their way into the blue sky
keeping, teachers floated round the room,
and fluffy white clouds above.
distributing pale yellow exam documents to
The chairs were populated by teenagers in
every student. A sheaf of papers fluttered their
navy blazers with large knotted blue ties
way onto Ruth’s desk and lay waiting for the
sitting several inches below their correct
instruction to “turn over and commence.”
positions. Beautiful girls with long wavy hair
Miss Trimble gave a dramatic pause as she
flicked their curls and fluttered their eyes at
waited for the huge wall clock to read exactly
smirking boys at nearby desks. Sour body
nine o’clock. “You may now begin and God
odour mingled with cheap ‘Charlie’ perfume
have mercy on your soul…”
and even cheaper ‘American Tan’ tights. Ruth looked down at her clear plastic bag
Ruth turned the paper over. It was a Maths exam. For some reason she had been
containing all her carefully chosen equipment.
expecting history. She had revised history… A
There was a protractor, ruler and compass
wave of panic spread from her feet to the top
together with HB pencils, rubber, sharpener
of her head and she felt faint.
and a fountain pen with spare cartridges. Ruth
Ruth looked at the first question. “If a man
opened the bag and took out a pencil. She
was walking down the road at 3 miles per
suddenly realised it was completely blunt. In
hour and was overtaken by another man on a
fact, all the pencils were blunt. She found the
bicycle travelling at 10 miles per hour, what
sharpener and got to work. The pencils went
time would he reach London?” She read the
round and round as long strings of curly
question over and over again but couldn’t put
sharpenings collected on the desk. The points
down an answer.
kept breaking off. She kept turning and
The second question was as confusing as
turning until only tiny red stumps remained.
the first. Measure the angle below and state
She placed them in a line at the top of the
whether it is acute, obtuse or adjacent.
desk, took out her pen and opened the lid. A
Adjacent to what? Ruth reached for her
thick globule of blue-black ink seeped out of
protractor only to find that it was completely
the nib and onto her fingers.
clear. There were no measurements on it at all
The head teacher, Miss Trimble, took her
C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 3
JUNE 2017 21
C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 1
upon fractions but no sign of an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;xâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;
â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it was just a transparent semi-circle of
anywhereâ&#x20AC;¦
plastic!
Ruth turned over the last page of the exam
Ruth looked around her. Everyone was
paper and there it was. She took her stubby
focused on his or her work. They were all
pencil and wrote her answer.
smiling and every few seconds, a student
She heard the fire alarm sound. It wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
would punch the air with excited satisfaction.
stop. It was loud and piercing. She hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
Ruth started to sweat. Her pen was now
finished the exam! All her answers were
leaking over her desk and a deep stain had
wrong!
appeared on her white shirtsleeve.
Ruth opened her eyes. The alarm clock
The next question was even more
was flashing 7.00am. It was Monday morning
perplexing. It just said â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Find xâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Find â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;xâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;?
and her son Ben had a Maths exam to get
Where the hell was she supposed to find â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;xâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;?
to...
Where was it? Where had it gone? She looked
Ruth swore for a third time and went to
everywhere but it was nowhere to be seen.
answer the door.
She rummaged through all the papers, trying
Copyright Sarah Lott JUNE 2017
to find the elusive â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;xâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. There were hundreds
Website: www.thememorybook.co.uk
and hundreds of questions. There were
Telephone: 07957 598348
percentages, venn diagrams and long division,
Email: sarah@thememorybook.co.uk
there were logarithms and bar charts and pie
Twitter: @thememorybook
charts and probabilities. There were fractions
Facebook: The Memory Book
$HULDOV b b 6DWHOOLWH 79 b b 6HFXULW\
(VW
6DWHOOLWH 79 $HULDOV 6DWHOOLWH 79 IRU 6N\ )UHHVDW (XURSHDQ &KDQQHOV )UHQFK *HUPDQ ,WDOLDQ 6SDQLVK PRUH 79 5DGLR $HULDOV $HULDOV IRU )UHHYLHZ %779 <RX9LHZ ([WUD 79 6DWHOOLWH ,QWHUQHW SRLQWV 79 :DOO 0RXQWLQJ 6HUYLFH 0XOWL 3RLQW 6\VWHPV
)5(( VXUYH\ IRU QHZ V\VWHPV
5HDOLJQ 6HUYLFH 5HSDLUV
,QVWDOODWLRQ 8SJUDGHV 0DLQWHQDQFH
'RPHVWLF &RPPHUFLDO
+RPH %XVLQHVV 6HFXULW\ &&79 ,QWUXGHU $ODUP 6\VWHPV 'RRU (QWU\ ,QVWDOODWLRQV 8SJUDGHV 0DLQWHQDQFH 6HUYLFH
ZZZ QRUVDW FR XN
JUNE 2017 23
P R O F I L E
JAMES JACKSON James is a chartered accountant living in Kingswood with many experiences including working for Mrs Thatcher
J
ames was born in
sheltered village life he suddenly found himself in
Llandeilo, West
the midst of a really mixed bunch led by a
Wales, the youngest
sadistic little corporal from Glasgow. A couple
of five, by what he
had just been discharged from Borstal, one had
explained was ‘a
been in prison, three could neither read nor write
considerable margin’. A
and one tried to commit suicide on his first night.
Welshman through and
However, they soon settled in and got on
through he has always loved to see them triumph
famously. James was nick named "teach",
over the old enemy on the field.
because he was the only one with any
His mother moved the family to Newent, a
qualifications. Often in the evenings he would be
small town in Gloucestershire, when his father,
writing letters to some of the mums and
who was in the TA, was called up during the war.
girlfriends and then reading the replies while the
He loved growing up there and got on famously
guys cleaned his kit in return. After a couple of
with the many evacuees from London and the
weeks he actually started to enjoy it, although
south coast. Whilst there were lots of troop
does not feel that he could share the content of
movements and a factory up the road building
some of the letters. There are times when James
spitfire wings, he still feels the war just passed
has been accused by his friends of being a bit of
them by, despite odd nights spent under the
a barrack room lawyer. “This could be where it all
stairs. A favourite pastime was searching for
started?” he laughed. They were fun times with
shrapnel which could be exchanged for marbles
much larking and on one occasion just before he
at school. Unfortunately, he never found any. Life
was posted to officer training James feigned
was carefree and even as an 8 year old he could
having fallen out of a window. He was however
disappear on his bike with friends for the whole
caught out and really thought it would cost him
day without a care in the world, least of all
his place and chance of a commission. Moreover
concern for his parents although he would get
he certainly didn’t enjoy the night in the slammer!
stick if he was not home by dark. After A levels
Having completed all the qualifying stages
at the local co-ed grammar school he decided to
he was then sent to an officer training school at
do National Service before taking up the
Eaton Hall in Cheshire, the Duke of
scholarship place he had been offered for
Westminster's country seat. After 16 very hectic
London University.
weeks he passed out and was posted to
The army was a real culture shock. He was
Bicester in Oxfordshire as a 2nd lieutenant.
posted to Catterick and spent three days
Bicester was an amazing place; thousands of
marching around in mufti because the army
troops spread over a huge depot, and probably
couldn't find his papers. Eventually someone
a hundred or so displaced persons from Eastern
realised that he was in the wrong camp and he
Europe, so called because they had been
was shipped off to Aldershot. After a pretty
prisoners of the Germans but now unable to go
24 JUNE 2017
home because the Russians occupied their countries. There were parties most weekends in
sort out the problems. At least thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s his story. By 1980 the novelty of travelling had worn off
one or other of the officers' messes and life was
and he set up as a sole practitioner in
very pleasant. James was made battalion
Kingswood and has been doing it ever since. He
shooting and tennis officer and a lot of his time
has had some interesting clients, from Annabels
was spent organising and taking part in matches
to George Best and from farmers to MPs. Others
around the country and in Germany. The Army
included an engineer in Wiltshire who designed
Rifle Championships on the Bisley ranges were
and successfully tested a man-powered
a particular highlight. There seemed little time
aeroplane, and a large Housing Association in
for genuine soldiering though they did do lots of
Islington. James was also the auditor to Mrs
exercises and training. The army was fantastic
Thatcher's conservative constituency association
and whilst he felt tempted to stay, London
at Finchley and Friern Barnet and met Mrs T on a
University beckoned. Settling down to studies in
number of occasions. No fees he said, but tea
law was challenging at first, like going back to
with her in the House of Commons. He was
school from where most fellow students had just
actually in the House having dinner, not with Mrs
arrived, but he loved the sport and
T, when the Belgrano was sunk in the Falklands
demonstration marches and fights in the Strand
War, which created quite an uproar. James has
against the Kings College crowd. He was there
always done a lot of charity work and still does,
when the Russians marched into Hungary and
seemingly a rewarding primary role for the local
there were massive demonstrations in the
Chartered Accountant, albeit time consuming.
Strand and a few of his friends were actually
Carol and James started married life in a flat
arrested. While at LSE he joined Grays Inn and
in Putney and moved to Kingswood with their
ate dinners with a view to joining the Bar.
two sons, via New Malden, in 1975. They have
However, after graduating he decided to train as
lived in the same house ever since. They have
a Chartered Accountant and joined Binder
two Hong Kong born adopted grandchildren who
Hamlyn in the City as an articled clerk, possibly
live with their parents in Hong Kong. James
to put off the evil day when he would have to
attributes getting along with his daughter in law
start real work. His parents were very
to the fact that she too is Welsh!
understanding though his father did wonder if
Hobbies in the past included cycling and
he would ever be able to treat him to lunch.
village cricket, but they are now restricted to
Regrettably he did not as his father died while
music, golf and gardening, though he added that
he was still an articled clerk.
the last two seem to be getting increasingly more
Binders was fun with a great bunch of articled clerks and lots of varied work, some good some bad. The worst job was a cotton factory in Glasgow in January. He used to taxi back to the
difficult. James is still working on projects and causes in the community that appeal to him. During university holidays he drove a truck delivering soft drinks around the southwest and
hotel each night and stay put, too scared to go
still harbours a secret
out. After a few years of post qualification
ambition to drive one of
experience he joined an international trading
those huge trucks we see
group as finance director. The next ten years
thundering around our
were spent travelling the world, mostly trouble
roads. Little chance now he
shooting. James reflects that the salesmen have
reflects, still a little boy at
all the fun but it is the accountants who have to
heart! n Sally Fish
JUNE 2017 25
L E G E N D S
D E L I G H T
AG A I N !
LEGENDS DELIGHT AGAIN! The Kingswood Village Hall was full to overflowing one Monday afternoon in April. The reason? A second concert by the Kingswood Big Band Legends, following their ‘debut’ at the Village Hall back in 2015. And what a concert it was!
F
rom the first bars of ‘There’s a Boat Leavin’ Soon for New York’, featuring Ronnie Hughes on trumpet and Arnold Bibby on saxophone, the audience knew
they were in for a real feast of big band music. The programme covered 100 years of jazz, from ‘Tiger Rag’, first recorded in 1917 by the Original Dixieland Jass Band, through to fresh new arrangements of the Beatles’ ‘A Hard Day’s Night’ and Petula Clark’s ‘Don’t Sleep in the Subway’. Chris Scott showed the range of her vocal talents with a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, born 100 years ago that month, including a haunting version of ‘My One and Only Love’ with an unusual flute trio interlude from members of the sax section. The music was interspersed with Barry Forgie’s introductions, explanations and quips, that he dubbed “not stand-up but sit-down humour”. His good friend Bill Geldard chipped in with other fascinating information from their past which helped to give the whole concert a really intimate feel. There were so many stand-out performances.
26 JUNE 2017
L E G E N D S
D E L I G H T
AG A I N !
performances. The jazz classic ‘Perdido’ arranged by band member Graham Mintram, featured a glorious sax solo by Mike Lavelle. ‘It’s Sandman’ gave us trombone virtuosity from Dave Lalljee, Barry Forgie, Bill Geldard and John Matthews, plus a solo from Paul Williams on keyboard. Marianne Windham slowed the mood with her double-bass on ‘Just A’Sittin’ and A’ Rockin’. After the interval we had the unusual Jack Hylton version of ‘Tiger Rag’ and then the liquid voice again of Chris Scott for ‘Can’t We Be Friends?’, ‘The Very Thought of You’ and ‘I’m Old Fashioned’. Andy Gibson’s Trumpet featured on ‘Begin the Beguine’ while there was a brilliant solo on ‘Easy Living’ by Bob McKay on saxophone. But of all the many memorable numbers, probably the most moving was ‘Nice to Have You with Us’ especially written by Bill Geldard for Ronnie Hughes, now approaching his 92nd birthday. Bill, by contrast is a mere 87 years old.
Top: Bill Geldard (left) and Barry Forgie (right). Bottom: Ronnie Hughes.
Ronnie’s trumpet solo was perfect! It really was
Double Bass: Marianne Windham
nice to have them with us.
Drums: Neal Jennings Vocalist: Chris Scott
The programme finished with a driving rendition of ‘Sing, Sing, Sing’ with Neal Jennings
Plus a few audience comments: “The best 2 hours or so I've spent for quite a
delivering its traditional drum solo, followed by
while! Great music from superb musicians,
tumultuous applause from the thrilled audience.
interspersed with some good humour. Roll on
Bob Gunn, for the Kingswood Village Community Association, spoke for the whole
next time!” Phil Gayford “A very enjoyable afternoon listening to the
audience when he said it had been a real joy to be
music we remember so well from our younger
treated to such a superb afternoon of big band jazz
days, played by a brilliant group of musicians
from such masters. And he was very appreciative
with an endearing sense of humour. Well done
of the fact that the band had given their time and
for arranging this return visit of The Kingswood
talents free of charge, to help the KVCA to raise
Big Band Legends. Please don’t leave it another
funds for a replacement for the Hall piano.
2 years before their next concert in the Village
The full list of band personnel was:Trumpets: Phil Addison, Steve Dawes, Andy
Hall.” Tony and Angie Peters “The Big Band Concert was a great joy again
Gibson, Matthew Hart Dyke, Ronnie Hughes
this year as once again it brought back such
Trombones: David Lalljee, Barry Forgie, Bill
vivid and happy memories going back over 60
Geldard, John Matthews
years of dancing to the wonderful music of Ted
Saxophones: Altos: Bob McKay, Arnold Bibby
Heath and Sid Philips etc. at the Floral Hall in
Tenors: David Brown, Mike Lavelle
my old home town of Southport in Lancashire.”
Baritone: Graham Mintram
Eric Glendenning
Piano: Paul Williams
n Bob Gunn
JUNE 2017 27
a ... Trrust the agents with w the ideal marketing reach to t achieve the best results for yo our property.
Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thinking of selling or letting,, contact us to arrange a free market m valuation of your property.
Kingswood
01737 360 0000 ki kingswood@rich d@ i hardsaunders.co.uk d d k
Lettings
01737 370 0700 lettings@richards saunders.co.uk
K R A
THOUGHTS ON OUR AGM
T
he Kingswood
residents updated on what is planned for the
Residents
provision of healthcare services in our area. The
Association AGM at
Trust has agreed to this so we should be able to
the end of March
issue information from time to time to keep
was particularly well attended once again this
residents up to date on health service provision. Normally at our AGM, the Surrey Police
year and it was excellent that so many
Service provides a representative to come
residents were able to join us on the night. On
along and speak to us about crime rates in the
top of all the regular work with which the
area and crime prevention measures. This has
Association is involved, there always seem to
always been a topic of great interest to those
be two or three hot issues each year which
attending, but sadly this year the police
ourClandon invitation. attract particular attention and this year Lady Onslow withhas some of her declined patients, at ParkApparently they have made a policy decision not to attend any local been no exception. I have written previously about the
community meetings and to communicate in
redevelopment of the station site. Planning
future through their website. Of course the cuts
permission has now been granted for a scheme
to the police service budgets throughout the
which the KRA felt able to support and which
country are well known and it is inevitable that
also met the planning brief. A representative
these must impact on the service the police are
from the developer was invited to attend the
able to offer in our own locality.
AGM to present the scheme and we are
Nevertheless, it is very disappointing that no
advised that if all goes well, work could begin
police officer could be made available even for
on site later this year. In the meantime we will
an hour or so to advise on crime prevention.
continue to liaise with the developer to discuss
One would imagine that a short talk to a
site access arrangements and continuity of
community meeting on preventing crimes would
parking at the station in order to minimise
take far less time than investigating those
disruption in the village during construction.
crimes once they have actually been
Also present at the AGM were the Chief
committed. The KRA will monitor the police
Executive and Communications Director of St
website and will continue to email residents
Helier Hospital. They outlined the policy for our
about any criminal activity which comes to our
local hospitals about which there has been so
attention. If this would be of interest to you,
much confusion in recent years with
please be sure to let us have your email
departmental closures and rumours of hospital
address if you have not done so already.
closures. Their presentation was very positive
Meantime let us hope that
despite the inevitable constraints of funding and
we can persuade the Police
staffing limitations from which the entire NHS
Service to reverse their
suffers. This is naturally an issue of continuing
decision before our next
relevance to all residents, so the KRA has asked
AGM.
if the Trust would be willing to maintain an
n Des Camblin
ongoing direct contact to enable us to keep
(Chairman KRA)
JUNE 2017 29
$Q 2XWVWDQGLQJ ,QGHSHQGHQW (GXFDWLRQ IRU *LUOV DJHG WR $GGLWLRQDO 1XUVHU\ &ODVV QRZ RSHQ :UDS DURXQG FDUH IURP DP SP 6FKRODUVKLSV DYDLODEOH DW DQG
1H[W 2SHQ (YHQWV 6HQLRU 6FKRRO SP RQ -XQH :KROH 6FKRRO DP RQ 6HS
7HOHSKRQH (PDLO DGPLVVLRQV#VXW JGVW QHW ZZZ VXWWRQKLJK JGVW QHW
Junior School - 86 Grove Road Sutton Surrey SM1 2AL Senior School - 55 Cheam Road Sutton Surrey SM1 2AX
T H I R T E E N
S O C I E T Y
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
O
ur 2016/17 season of talks has come to an end and we have again enjoyed some excellent speakers, covering many subjects from Gilbert and Sullivan
to poisonous plants and even ÂŁSD, hopefully something to interest everyone. The new audio visual system has proved very successful and a huge improvement to our programme. Our thanks go to Bob Gunn who has given much of his time to make sure it all ran smoothly. Thanks are also due, again this year, to Bunty Bennett whose sponsorship allows us to continue holding our annual lunch at Walton Heath Golf Club in February. It was very well attended and enjoyed by all. Next seasons programme is in the planning stage and further details will appear in the next copy of Village Voice. n Frances Rosbotham, Programme Secretary
COMMUNITY SOUP LUNCH his year, instead of holding our usual coffee
T
periods of fasting at this time of year and we hoped
morning in Kingswood Village Hall, we offered
others would join us. We had a good attendance,
a soup and cheese lunch on Saturday March 18th.
lots of soup, cheese , bread and pickles with a
The idea came from the Lent lunches offered by
lovely atmosphere of friendship over what was
members of St Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, leading up to Easter. It
intended to be a frugal lunch but I don't think
seemed appropriate as many other religions have
anyone left hungry. n Members of St Andrews
JUNE 2017 31
STONEMAN FUNERAL SERVICES An independent family business providing a comprehensive personal service
Prepayment funeral plans available 11 SHELVERS HILL, TADWORTH Tel: 01737 814406 Head Office and Funeral Home DORAN COURT, REIGATE ROAD, REDHILL Tel: 01737 763456 Memorial Office: 49 Bell Street, Reigate Tel: 01737 243164
* Painting & Decorating Specialists * Handyman Services * Carpentry * Property Maintenance & Alterations Comprehensive Public Liability Insurance, Police Vetted and CRB Checked. Call Mark Jackson for professional, friendly advice and free estimates. Daytime: 07890 394197 Evenings/Weekends 01737 357285 Email: lester.jackson@hotmail.co.uk 34 Buckles Way, Banstead, Surrey SM7 1HD (30 years working for Kingswood/local residents, recommendations/references available) LINKEDIN Mark Jackson
32 JUNE 2017
T H E
C H U R C H
I N
K I N G S W O O D
GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL
D
o you remember the vision that went with the introduction of computer technology? It was said that we would all have much more leisure time. The labour saving dimension of computers and computerisation was going to save so much time that those who were working would have much more time to themselves. The reality, all these year later, is rather different. Work has expanded. Not only are people working longer hours, but grateful employers dish out laptops so that their employees can work from home in their leisure time. The 24 hour job has arrived. No time seems to be sacred, and we expect phones to be answered, problems to be sorted out at any hour of the day or night whether urgent or not. The cost to those who have to bear these demands is great, and people being off work with stress, unheard of a generation ago, is now common. Of course, a demanding life is nothing new, and Jesus had a way of dealing with the demands that were placed on him. Often he would go away to a solitary place so that he could be on his own with God. Life was not straightforward for him either, as he found that the people
would follow him wherever he went in the hope that he would offer some useful teaching, or perform a healing. His moment of peace was often short lived. The next few months are traditionally the time for holidays; a time to get away from the pressures of normal life. Even if people rarely go to solitary places these days, getting away from it all means going to a place where you can relax and let the cares and stresses of day-today life slip away. Some are overjoyed to know that if they hear a phone ring it will be for someone else and not for them! Some will go to remote countryside to find their space; others will achieve the same effect on a crowded beach; yet others will engage in strenuous activity; and those who stay at home will find just a bit more space all around them. But most people will probably have better success in getting away from it all than Jesus did. Wherever you are this coming summer, it may be worth remembering that however difficult Jesus found it to get away from the crowds, when he tried to do so it was because he wanted to get close to God and come back refreshed to the task before him. Not a bad agenda for any holiday! With every blessing, n Revâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d Chris Colton, Priest in charge, Parish of Kingswood
JUNE 2017 33
Tadworth_pfw 13/10/2016 10:34 Page 30
Love Your Travel Agent Your personal travel consultant will give you expert advice on planning that all important holiday
Here are just three reasons to love Symphony World Travel Love us in emergencies Love us in times of uncertainty Need us to simplify your lives
So why not call into our agency, take advantage of our free parking, meet our team and discuss your requirements over a cup of coffee. W look forward forward to to meeting meeting yyou. ou. Wee look
Kingswood Branch
Fetcham Branch
43 Waterhouse Lane Kingswood, Surrey KT20 6EB
220 Cobham Road, Fetcham Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 9JQ
Tel: 01737
36 26 26
Tel: 01372
Email: sales@symphonyworldtravel.com y p y Web: Web: w www.symphonyworldtravel.com ww.symphonyworldtravel.com
375 361
P H O T O G R A P H
C O M P E T I T I O N
KINGSWOOD THROUGH THE SEASONS
Above: The winner of the June 2017 photography competition is Pat Gibson who took this picture of a flowering Clematis Armandii. Entry deadline for the September issue is 20th July with a theme of summer in Kingswood. Please email your photograph to richard.milbourn@carnah.co.uk
YOUR LOCAL PLUMBERS You never know when you might need us ......so make a note of our NEW number NOW: 01737 551538
DEREK WHITE & SONS Established over 50 years, fully insured. NO JOB TOO SMALL Call Martin White on: 01737 551538 or mobile: 07826 181614 Beecroft, 173 Chaldon Way, Coulsdon, Surrey CR5 1DP
JUNE 2017 37
K I N G S W O O D
V I L L A G E
W I
INSPIRATION AND SUPPORT
F
ebruary is notoriously the month when folk, tired of winter, slip away to sunnier climes. It was thus gratifying that our monthly meeting was satisfactorily attended to listen to, “When I was at the Bar”. The speaker, Peter Thompson, gave us a witty account of, not G&T’s or martinis, but of his years spent as a criminal barrister – including some interesting case studies. The following month one of our own, Judi Woods, presented a fascinating talk about the dream job of her youth. She sketched the background of her “big boss,” Florence Nightingale Graham, known the world over as Elizabeth Arden. Judi told us how, as a young woman, she saw an Arden representative in Marshall & Snelgrove in Harrogate, wearing the latest Arden Pink lipstick and enjoying what was obviously a glamorous and exciting job! This inspired her to apply for a position. We heard about her interview and training and her work as an EA consultant in Leeds. Obviously the lovely Judi did well and after some years she became a travelling consultant for EA. As a member of the promotions team she travelled first class. What was not to like? It was inspiring to hear someone talk so happily about a much loved career. Our April meeting saw Joan
38 JUNE 2017
Cuthbert’s illustrated talk on Madeira, an island much visited and obviously close to her heart. In addition there was a table laden with Madeiran artefacts and brochures for us to pore over during tea. It seems as if a visit to Madeira should go on the bucket list of those who have not yet been there. Another item of interest was the Surrey Federation’s AGM at Dorking. This is a really worthwhile day which in addition to all the usual reports always boasts some very interesting speakers. Jo Salter, our first female fighter pilot, enthralled with her life story. How she rose to her job with 617 Squadron, flying Tornados and, though never seeing battle, she patrolled the ‘no-fly’ zones over Iran and Iraq. Also of great interest was an account of living with dementia. The Dementia Friends, whose logo is a forget-me-not, cited a few simple examples to help the audience understand how dementia works. Imagine your fairy lights at Christmas when, having been strung, only some of the bulbs fire up. Or a bookcase with the experiences of a life packed in, the bookcase getting taller and taller. Then, when a wobble comes, the top, most recent books are dislodged, while the bottom ones of youth and childhood remain in situ. The WI continues to inspire and support members in so many ways. Should you wish to be a part of our group, join us at 14.00 on the first Thursday of each month in the Village Hall. n Nettie Cooper, Press Officer
40 JUNE 2017
T E C H N O L O G Y
FROM PEN AND INK TO RASPBERRY PI There seems to be an inexorable shift towards many of the things we do in our daily lives going digital. In most cases these changes, once understood, can make our lives easier and free up time to spend on other more interesting pursuits. But in others they can be a source of frustration, particularly if they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always work in the way we have been led to believe they should! Technology will be an occasional series of short articles dealing with, and I hope de-mystifying, some of these changes. If you have a suggestion about a digital issue you would like to be covered, or even better if you would like to contribute an item, please let me know. Our series starts with an explanation of why the Khyber Tandoori has introduced the option to order your take away Indian feast from the screen of your phone, tablet or computer. Bob Gunn
P
aper, pen, carbon copy. For over
order entry form so that a customer can tap
30 years we've been taking orders
in their order using their phone or tablet.
at the Khyber Tandoori in such a
These orders arrive in the restaurant at a
fashion. It's durable and reliable.
Raspberry Pi (a credit card size computer)
Unfortunately, it's highly manual too. The
which is attached to small printers both at
carbon copy must be taken to the kitchen
the bar (to print the customer receipt) and
and bills must be tallied.
the kitchen (which prints two copies; one
With the advent of recent technologies, we're now using tablet computers for taking orders, sending orders through to the
for the Head Chef and one for the Tandoori Chef). Automating the order communication
kitchen wirelessly and printing receipts.
/computation has freed up time to allow us
What caused this? There's a known
to focus on serving customers and
programming meme of being lazy, frustrated
improving the quality of service. You are still
and exhibiting hubris. Lazy for not wanting
very welcome to phone through your orders
to walk or write orders, frustrated by having
as you have in the past on 01737 352813, if
to tally ÂŁ400 orders with a calculator and
that is what you prefer. However why not
hubris in the excessive pride of showing off
give the new system a trial at
how elegantly this new technology works in
www.khybertandoori.com?
front of the customer. The Khyber last year fully migrated to
n Ehsan Rahman, Son of Abdur Rahman, Manager
using tablets for both in-house and takeout
of Khyber Tandoori.
orders. But why stop there? Takeout orders
Order online
are still usually communicated through a
at khybertandoori.com
telephone call, and someone has to answer
Reservations via
it. Cue the development of a website and
mail@Khybertandoori.com
JUNE 2017 41
A N N
D O B S O N ’ S
R E C I P E S
A TASTE OF SUMMER
T
he energy of spring is subsiding and the colour of the countryside is deepening into the rich green of summer. Even the birds seem to have calmed down and their song is gentler now. Roses are in bloom and their delicate scent wafts through the air, blending with honeysuckle
and lavender. Slices of smoked salmon paté, drizzled with a peppery watercress sauce, make a tasty light lunch to eat in the garden with some fresh salad leaves. English strawberries are arriving in the shops. They taste sweet and juicy just as they are, but added to a meringue roulade with orange-flavoured cream make a luscious dinner party dessert. n Ann Dobson
SMOKED SALMON PATE for 8
STRAWBERRY AND ORANGE ROULADE for 8
200g melted butter, 400g smoked
2 teaspoons cornflour, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
salmon, 8 tablespoons double cream
2 teaspoon white wine vinegar, 5 eggs, separated
3 tablespoons lemon juice
300g+110g caster sugar, zest and juice of large orange
Black pepper, pinch Cayenne pepper
Small carton whipping cream, 250g fresh strawberries
Small bunch of watercress
Heat the oven to 140oC/gas 1. Line a Swiss roll tin with baking
Small pot of crème fraiche
parchment. Mix cornflour, vanilla extract and vinegar. Whisk the
Line a 8cm x 18cm loaf tin with cling
egg whites until stiff, then gradually whisk in 300g caster sugar,
film. Melt the butter and put it in a
alternating with cornflour mixture. Gently spread the meringue
blender with the smoked salmon. Whiz
over the tin and bake for 30 minutes until it is slightly crispy and
until smooth and then add the cream,
pale gold. Dust a sheet of baking parchment with icing sugar and
lemon juice and seasoning, giving it
turn the roulade out onto this. Carefully peel off the parchment
another whiz to incorporate everything.
and leave to cool. Meanwhile, use the yolks to make orange curd:
Taste and add a little more lemon if
Mix with 110g caster sugar and heat over a pan of hot water until
necessary. Press into the loaf tin and
it thickens. Cool. Whisk the cream, gently stir in the cooled orange
chill for several hours. Turn out and
curd to make a marbled effect and spread carefully over the
slice to serve with a drizzle of
meringue. Slice the strawberries and scatter over the cream filling.
watercress sauce. For the watercress
Now to roll it up: begin at the end nearest to you and gradually roll
sauce, simply whiz chopped watercress away from you, using the baking parchment as a guide Serve into a pot of crème fraiche.
42 JUNE 2017
sliced, with a few extra whole strawberries.
LT ELECTRICAL All Electrical Services
Based in Kingswood and serving surrounding areas * Domestic Rewires * Garden Lighting Design Specialists * LED Lighting Upgrades * Repairs * Fault Finding & Rectification * Security Lights & CCTV All work is completed to BS7671 IET Wiring Regulations (17th Edition ) We will always endeavour to attend Kingswood residents and local homes and businesses on the same day in an emergency!
CONTACT 0793 908 7097 OR 01737 370310
KINGSWOOD, TADWORTH AND WALTON FLOWER ARRANGEMENT GROUP Held in the Village Hall Waterhouse Lane Kingswood every second Tuesday in the month at 7.45 pm
W
e have enjoyed a good start to our new year with excellent demonstrators in February and March. Our 58th AGM in April went really well and we are delighted that a new member has joined the committee. Following the meeting
we all enjoyed a talk by Sue Edwards entitled ‘Jam Jar Talk’. Sue picked plant samples from her garden, she talked about them, passed them around and we all asked many questions. Sue is very knowledgeable
about horticulture and we all found it most interesting. The next day her garden in Tadworth was open to visitors, proceeds to go to the Children’s Trust, so quite a few us went to see all these plants in situ. I know I keep repeating myself, but as this is the start of a new year, if you are a newcomer to the Kingswood, Walton and Tadworth area and are looking for opportunities to meet people and participate in local activities or maybe someone who has lived locally for years and would like to try something new, please give a thought to your local flower club. We have excellent demonstrators so all you have to do is to enjoy their skills, knowledge and tips. Our demonstrators are also happy to answer questions. Why not find out more? Please come along to one of our meetings as a visitor and hopefully you will enjoy it so much you would like to become a member. We have a break for refreshment and a chat and the demonstrator will judge our own competition for that meeting. We raffle the demonstrator’s arrangements each month so you could go home with a beautiful bouquet. n Janet Hill, Chairman branet@home.3b.co.uk Tel: 01737 832424. Meetings start promptly at 7.45 pm in the Village Hall, Waterhouse Lane, Kingswood. 2017 Programme
Tuesday August 8th No meeting
Tuesday November 14th
Tuesday June 13th
Fundraising Summer Lunch
‘Crackling Christmas’
‘Flaming June’
Tuesday September 12th
Demonstrator: Susan Tausig
Demonstrator: Graham King
‘Vine Romance’
Competition: Arrangement of
Competition: Three Roses
Demonstrator: Kathryn Goddard
Leaves and Berries
Tuesday June 20th
Competition: Flower arrangement
Tuesday December 12th 2pm
Fundraising Event
including a piece of wood
Christmas meeting with tea
Tuesday July 11th
Tuesday October 10th
‘Sparkling Bright’
‘Floral Vision’
‘Through the Ages’
Demonstrator: Susan Shaw
Demonstrator: Jean Plaskett
Demonstrator: Kathy Stangard
Competition: Decorated
Competition: Flowers to Wear
Competition: Posy in a Tea Cup
Christmas Parcel
JUNE 2017 45
The management of No12 would like to warmly invite you to experience the changes we have made since reopening last October.
You Can Now Enjoy Our New Opening Times Incluing Saturday Lunchtime Visit Our Website For Further Information www.no12restaurant.co.uk
Our new menus designed by head chef Jason Marchant are not only varied but also exciting. We use only the ďŹ nest produce available, which are then wonderfully transformed into tasty dishes by our talented team of chefs. The lunchtime Bistro menu caters for diners looking for a light inexpensive lunch or a nibble and a glass of wine. By contrast our a la Carte menu which is available all day caters for those wanting a little more than a light meal. Come and meet our friendly team and enjoy what we hope to be a venue that you will want to come back to again and again.
www.no12restaurant.co.uk
NO12 WATERHOUSE LANE KINGSWOOD SURREY KT20 6EB
01737 351 157
T R A V E L
SICILY AND THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS A
T R U L Y
M A G I C A L
E X P E R I E N C E
The beach in Taormina.
even volcanic islands, just 45 minutes by
S
views of the volcanic landscape. The town itself
hydrofoil from mainland Sicily, rise out of
boasts several fabulous restaurants to enjoy
the cobalt seas off Sicily’s northeast
fresh and local Sicilian cuisine at its very best.
islands are a little piece of relatively
largest and liveliest so the ideal introduction to a
undiscovered paradise, offering stunning waters
stay in this stunning area. For some volcanic
for water sports enthusiasts, swimmers and
action, a spot of nature and complete relaxation,
divers as well as trek worthy volcanoes, bubbling
a stay on Vulcano is a must - a boat trip from
thermal springs and a gourmet heaven not to
Vulcano to Stromboli, which erupts every 15
mention an outstanding view. The seven Aeolian
minutes and provides a stunning backdrop to
Islands are Lipari, Vulcano, Panarea, Salina,
any cocktails-at-sunset boat excursion, should
Stromboli, Filicudi and Alicudi.
not be missed. The other islands provide a mix
coast. These Unesco-protected pearl drops of
For a beginner’s Aeolian experience, a
Lipari, the ‘capital’ of the islands, is the
of accommodation and can be explored with
relaxed tour of the islands will make you want to
differing levels of adventure. The itinerary below
return.
offers a taste of what the islands have to offer
Start with a couple of days in the historic
and can be completely tailormade.
town of Taormina on mainland Sicily – fabulous
Day one
accommodation lies on the beach and in the
Fly to Catania and transfer to Taormina for 2
town itself. Mount Etna dominates the east coast
nights. Why not stay at the beautiful La Plage
of Sicily and rises majestically above Taormina.
Resort - on the beach and close to the town.
Adventurous travellers can explore Etna by 4x4
Day three
or cable car – less ambitious visitors can stop
Transfer to Milazzo to meet the hydrofoil which
half way and enjoy the extraordinary panoramic
C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 4 9
JUNE 2017 47
S I C I LY
The beautiful Sicilian coastline.
A N D
T H E
A E O L I A N
I S L A N D S
Therasia Resort & Spa in Vulcano.
C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 4 7
360 degree views of the beautiful ocean and
will whisk you on a 45 minute journey across
neighbouring islands.
the crystal blue waters to Lipari for 2 nights.
Day eight
Enjoy a couple of days at beautiful Hotel Mea,
Transfer back to Milazzo then onto Catania for
privately owned and a haven of tranquillity just
flight home
a hop, skip and jump from the lively town
For more information on this fabulous
centre and its plethora of typical local
destination or for some general travel inspiration,
restaurants and bars.
please pop into one of our shops or call one of
Day five
our travel experts. Symphony World Travel,
A short 10 minute boat hop across to Vulcano
Kingswood 01737 362626 - Symphony World
for a relaxing stay for 3 nights. Therasia Resort
Travel, Fetcham 01372 375361.
and spa is a great choice - utter bliss and offers
www.symphonyworldtravel.com
JUNE 2017 49
L O C A L
B U S I N E S S
WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY
I
n 2016, Cheam Windows celebrated their 25th year in business. During this time they have installed a wide range of highquality doors, windows, conservatories and glazed extensions in over 35,000 homes thoughout Surrey and South West London. Throughout this time, Cheam Windows have gained a good understanding, not just of the window industry, but also of the property market and the changes this has brought to today's homeowner. They understand how the impact of a high-quality window, door or glazed extension can affect not just the energy efficiency but also the improvement to useable living space which all contributes to increasing property values. As a company, they have manufactured products themselves in the past although after many years realised that as a customer-focussed company they had to offer a wider range of products. The success of the company and volume of business ultimately meant that they could buy highquality products from the best manufacturers in the UK for less than it cost to manufacture themselves.
50 JUNE 2017
The window industry has become very spohisticated in recent years with an abundance of choice, unfortunately, not all of it good. To many homeowners, this diversity of choice and the confusing information gained from the internet makes it very difficult to find a true solution to their needs. As a distinguished company, the major manufacturers in the UK are keen to supply Cheam Windows - this not only gives them access to the best products on the market but also supply them at competitve prices. They continue to offer potential customers a unique experience in an industry that has gathered a jaded image over the years. This experience begins with actually being able to see products in a comfortable showroom environment and a knowledgeable yet passive member of the sales team to help where required. James, from the Banstead showroom said "customers like to meet us in the showroom, to get to see our products up close before they invite us into their homes for C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 5 3
PHILLIP DUCKWORTH City & Guilds Gardener O
Regular visits or one offs O Fully insured O 35 years experience
Tel: 01737 552909 or Mobile: 0777 215 9571 “DORMERS”, OUTWOOD LANE, CHIPSTEAD, SURREY CR5 3NF
JUNE 2017 51
Kennedys
â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;
INDEPENDENT PROPERTY AGENTS
T: 01737 817718 E: info@kennedys-ipa.co.uk www.kennedys-ipa.co.uk
KINGSWOOD £1,895,000 7KH EHDXWLIXO :LVWHULD +RXVH D PDJQLÃ&#x20AC; FHQW Ã&#x20AC; YH EHGURRP &RVWDLQ EXLOW KRPH GDWLQJ EDFN WR LV VHW RQ D ODUJH JDWHG SORW RI RI DQ DFUH ZLWK VRXWK HDVW IDFLQJ JDUGHQV DQG LV VLWXDWHG RQ WKH KLJKO\ GHVLUDEOH :DUUHQ 'ULYH (3& (
KINGSWOOD £1,500,000 A brand new and exceptionally designed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;smartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home in a beautiful, tucked away location on the edge of Kingswood 9LOODJH VHW LQ D YHU\ XQLTXH SORW RI DSSUR[LPDWHO\ DFUHV ZLWKLQ WKH JURXQGV RI 6XUUH\ 'RZQV *ROI &RXUVH (3& %
WIND O W O F O PPO RTU N ITY
C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 5 0
surveying". It is very important that customers realise they don't employ hard sell tactics, no pressure and no false ‘sign-on-the-night’ discounts. As a company, their work carries a 10year guarantee underwritten by Lloyds of London and administered by the Glass and Glazing Federation along with a further 10years from themselves to give a 20-year guarantee. Cheam Windows are also one of the few independent window companies in the UK to have a dedicated Customer Service team too. They are confident that customers will buy from them not because of their competitive prices but because the customer feels they have intelligently evaluated the products, the assurance that comes from a stable and secure company and a price that doesn't aim to be the cheapest but best all-round value. Testimony to the way Cheam Windows work is the fact that over 70% of their work stems from repeat customers, personal referrals and recommendations. To contact Cheam Windows, call 0800 802 1880 or visit www.cheamwindows.co.uk
JUNE 2017 53
TIME TRAVEL REALLY IS POSSIBLEâ&#x20AC;Ś Travel back in time with The Memory Book Company and keep family memories safe for your children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. During an enjoyable reminiscence session either you, or someone you love, will be transported back to re-visit familiar places, smells, sights, sounds and memories. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll then receive a tailor made memory box, with an edited audio recording and written transcript. Your box will also be filled with personalised memory prompts to continue your trip down memory lane.
Give me a call on 01372 373844
and start your time travel travelling journey! Email : sarah@thememorybook.co.uk
Website : www.thememorybook.co.uk
K I N G S W O O D
L A W N
T E N N I S
C L U B
SUMMER TIME! o it’s time for the hibernators to dust off that tennis racket and those tennis shoes and get down to your local tennis club and join in the fun. Go to our web-site at www.kingswoodltc.com, or visit us on facebook at www.facebook.com/kingswoodlawntennisclub, and see what you may be missing! We really aim to be a friendly and welcoming club, with facilities to match the best. If you are not members already, it could not be a better time to join: contact kltcmembership@gmail.com. As you read this, we will recently have resurfaced our top three courts with artificial clay. And the bottom two courts have a very popular astro surface. The new artificial clay courts are excellent for tennis – as well as good for your joints! We have a great coaching programme for kids, teenagers and adults, of all standards, under the direction of our Head Coach, Valentin, who can be contacted on 07919 453206 or coaching@kingswoodltc.com. We have two tennis camps for Juniors this year: l 29th May to 2nd June l 31st July to 1st September We have a full range of club social sessions, some aimed at particular
S
standards, all the way from improver to intermediate to advanced, the times and details of which can be obtained at the clubhouse or on request. And we have a wide range of social activities though the year. Upcoming summer highlights are: l Family Fun Day and Hog Roast – Saturday 17th June – see poster below. l Finals Day and BBQ – Sunday 9th July. n Robin Hollington, Chairman
JUNE 2017 55
P A T â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S
G A R D E N
D I A R Y
G ARDENERS WORLD
W
e are sorry to have to report that the March edition was the last in our regular series of Patâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden Diary. Some years ago I had thought that the Village Voice ought to have a regular gardening column. Kingswood is noted for its gardens and lots of us spend time in gardens, either working to care for and improve them or enjoying just being in them. So lots of our readers, it seemed to me, would be interested in reading words of wisdom from a really good gardener, being reminded what to do when, and seeing pictures which would show what can be achieved. Then in 2014 I had the inspiration to ask Pat Gibson if she would be willing to
December 2016 Chelsfield.
56 JUNE 2017
March 2017 Chelsfield.
write a regular column. I had visited her garden when she opened it for the Jubilee and had been greatly impressed by what she had been able to achieve, by her enthusiasm for gardening, and by how clearly she talked about what she did in her garden. When I approached her, Pat was modestly unsure whether Village Voice readers would be interested in what she had to say. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m so glad that I persisted! Her Garden Diary has been a delight ever since it first appeared in June 2014 and our Editor tells me it is the article which regularly gets the most positive feedback. She has presented an ideal mix of what is happening in her garden, what to do in different parts of your garden and suggestions of
September 2016 Chelsfield.
June 2016 Chelsfield.
fascinating gardens to visit not too far away. And all illustrated by colourful photographs. Sadly, for personal reasons, Pat has decided that she can no longer make the time required to prepare her Garden Diary each quarter. On your behalf I would like to thank her for producing it regularly for the past 3 years and for bringing so much pleasure to so many people.
We are signing off Pat’s Garden Diary with four photographs from Pat’s garden, one from each of the seasons she has described so well. Thank you Pat! To hijack your own sign-off phrase, we hope that you continue to enjoy “Happy gardening and garden visiting!” n Bob Gunn,
he Kingswood, Walton & Tadworth Horticultural Society will be holding their annual GARDENERS' DELIGHT OPEN GARDENS EVENT on Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th June. 10 LOCAL GARDENS in the KT20 area will be opening for your Pleasure & Enjoyment from 2pm - 6pm. Tickets/ map £6 will gain entry to all gardens over both days. Refreshments available at several venues in aid of various charities. For more details please contact Sue Edwards suehortsoc@btinternet.com or visit our website www.kwthortsoc.co.uk
T
UPPER ROOM ST ANDREW’S CHURCH, KINGSWOOD AVAILABLE FOR HIRE IDEAL FOR MEETINGS and SMALL GATHERINGS of up to 25 people TEA/COFFEE MAKING FACILITIES £10 an hour or £25 for a MORNING/AFTERNOON/EVENING No Disabled Access Contact: 01737 813496 or anne.bennett@btinternet.com
JUNE 2017 57
Y O U R
L O C A L
C H A R I T I E S
QUEEN ELIZABETH’S FOUNDATION FOR DISABLED PEOPLE
EF Neuro Rehabilitation Services
Q
environment and support for the person who is
(NRS), based in Park Road, Banstead,
recovering to see their functionality and quality of
is part of Queen Elizabeth’s
life improve, the service sees its role as supporting
Foundation for Disabled People (QEF),
families too.
people with disabilities for over 80 years. NRS’
fundraised add valuable extras that make a
crucial work is to offer support and treatments that
massive difference. As well as providing essential
allow people to work towards getting their lives
physiotherapy equipment there are also art and
back after a brain injury caused by head trauma,
music tutors who can help clients adjust to their
or being affected by a stroke or an illness such as
condition by expressing themselves and learning
meningitis.
new skills. Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for
a charity that has been providing services for
The centre is a homely environment where the
As a charity the money that is donated and
Disabled People’s other divisions are also
best possible outcomes are achievable. Uniquely,
accessible to clients at Banstead Place and mean
the team consists of a high concentration of
that experts can help with everything from special
experts in specialist areas, all of whom have many
custom assistive equipment, to relearning how to
years’ experience working with people with
drive.
complex needs. The charity works with clients’ families as well as the individuals affected, as brain injury and the
Alexander is an example of someone that the service helped. He came to QEF Neuro Rehabilitation Services
effects it has are something that happens to a
after experiencing a major stroke when he
whole family. As well as facilitating the right
collapsed during a half-marathon. Doctors had to
58 JUNE 2017
remove part of his skull to relieve pressure on his
the QEF Mobility Centre. This realistic private track
brain.
has traffic lights and junctions and replicates the
Alexander had to relearn how to talk, and came to QEF to focus on regaining mobility and independence, so that he could achieve his goal of
experience of driving on a real road without having to worry about other vehicles or pedestrians. He told us: “If you are put through and survive
returning to university to continue his degree in
a severe brain injury such as a stroke or an impact
electronics.
caused trauma, returning to drive on public roads
With the help of the team at QEF NRS,
may appear an unyielding task at first. However -
Alexander worked hard to exercise and became
with the vast array of modern driving aids
able to walk again with the aid of leg splints and a
available, it may well be more realistic than you
walking stick.
think.”
He said: “To be honest, every morning of my life I am able to get up and wash without the
Alexander has now returned to university and is continuing his driving.
assistance of a carer I will be truly thankful for.”
To find out more about
Before his stroke, Alexander had passed his
QEF and how you can get
driving test and wanted to return to the road. This
involved in helping support
is something that QEF Mobility Services, up the
their vital work, visit
road in Carshalton, was able to help with. An
www.qef.org.uk
assessment tested his reactions and
n Alistair Pulling
recommended the right adaptions to enable him to access and control a car. Alexander started driving again on the track at
THE CHILDREN’S TRUST SUPERCAR EVENT
F
or the perfect Father’s Day gift this 18 June, look no further than tickets to The Supercar
Event www.thesupercarevent.com. Taking place over the weekend Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 June, at the famous ‘Top Gear’ track at Dunsfold Park, Cranleigh, this is the perfect gift to give your dad the opportunity to live in the fast lane – literally. If you want to go the extra mile with your gift,
Sevens and hovercrafts, there’s entertainment for
purchase a once-in-a-lifetime passenger ride in
the whole family – not just dad. There is also the
one of the 150 stunning supercars. With rides
Lexus LFA supercar and a 4x4 course. Younger
starting at just £30 it’s a gift guaranteed to get
guests can have their first driving experience with
your dad beaming without breaking the bank.
Stay Safe Driving School (age 14 plus), take a fire
The family event attracts more than 17,000 visitors and is expected to raise over £100,000 for
engine ride or try the Mini Monster Truck Mania! Family ticket (2 adult, 2 children aged 4-16)
The Children’s Trust charity
£30, adult ticket £12, child and concession tickets
www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk. From helicopter and
£8 if pre-booked. To book tickets visit
truck rides mini tanks and Diggerland to Caterham
www.thesupercarevent.com.
JUNE 2017 59
Tadworth_pfw 13/10/2016 10:34 Page 25
www.ajstyres.co.uk
N S P C C
FORTHCOMING EVENTS Annual Tennis Day Huge thanks to Carrie Barden, Caroline Holding and Sally Fish and Kingswood Tennis Club for hosting the Kingswood NSPCC Tennis Tournament. A full report and photograph of the winners will be in the September issue of the Village Voice.
Stop For Tea Tuesday 6th June 2017 2-4 pm Shieling, The Warren, Kingswood, KT20 6PQ £5 entrance (inc tea and cake) Come and join us for afternoon tea, cake and a tour of the beautiful NGS garden. Cakes and Candles will be available for sale on the day For tickets or more details please contact Angie or Lori - atpeters@btinternet.com or 833043, lori.kerr@60live.co.uk or 830907 St Patrick's Day dinner Our thanks must once again go to our loyal supporters who attended our St Patrick's Day dinner at No 28 Tadworth. Everyone enjoyed a superb 3 course meal and small quiz to celebrate St Patrick. Our thanks must go to Marc, his Head Chef Paul Franklin and their wonderful team for such a fun evening. Thanks to everyone's generosity we raised £950.
May Ball Full report will be in the September issue of Village Voice. Quiz Night Friday 6th October 2017 Kingswood Village Hall 7.30pm Tables of 8 Tickets £17.50 to include a fish and chip supper. Back by popular demand! Make up a table and come along and test your knowledge! For more details or to book a table please contact Gill - gilltalpade@hotmail.com or 832552 200 Club In our last 200 club draw we had many successful Kingswood prize winners who have all been notified. For £12 a year you have the chance to win cash prizes and support the NSPCC/Childline. For more details please contact Carolyn carolyn.barke@gmail.com or 832121
HOW THE NSPCC IS HELPING CHILDREN IN LONDON AND THE SOUTH EAST A new Childline app 'For Me' is the first to provide counselling to young people in need of help, directly through their Smartphone, using a different name instead of Childline. 'For Me' was invented by four teenagers who wanted to make technology benefit the community. Developed in partnership with Barclays the app is available to Apple and Android devices and is free to download. Last year 1.8 million sessions on Childline were conducted via mobile devices. NSPCC HELPLINE 0800 800 500 help@NSPCC.org.uk ChildLine 0800 1111
JUNE 2017 61
W R I T E R S ’
C O R N E R
In this edition we have two short but very deep nature poems by Nigel Pearce, the son of long-time Kingswood resident Pauline Pearce, and a nostalgic honeymoon tale from James Chatfield. If there is a piece of writing you would like to appear in Village Voice, written by yourself or by someone else, please let me know. Bob Gunn
UNIVERSAL RIGHTS The earth beneath our feet is a score whose notes are avian as well as human and can be fleetingly heard like a far off conversation, or as skylarks in traffic. Nature is a sovereign state, not a colony, and Eden with its forbidden fruit was a garden, not a wilderness. Nigel Pearce 2017
THE SOURCE It was up in the hills somewhere, they said, bubbling up among ling and blueberry; each had heard it from someone else, but none had seen it for themselves, or gone looking. Skimming the rocks it swiftly attracted rain-fed runnels of indeterminate direction, articulated its way through a valley of reaffirmation, to meet a confluence of agendas before flowing slow and majestic through the capital and disgorging, a broad deltaic fact, into the open sea. Nigel Pearce 2011
62 JUNE 2017
ST LUCIA: APRIL 1982 have on my desk a rather embarrassing photograph taken on our honeymoon (if that’s what you call it these days) 35 years ago. I am on a motor boat in what looks like the seas off the north coast of Cornwall, but it is in fact the east side of the island of St Lucia. There is a swell and the sky is a little gloomy. It looks like it will rain soon. I am holding, with some surprise and not a little pride, a small tuna, a foot long, I have just caught. But the tiny tuna is not the embarrassing aspect of the photograph. No it’s the shorts I am wearing, and I have to say rather too short, a bit too light blue and tight into the bargain. I would never be allowed out in such shorts these days; we move on though. The other person in the photograph is a cheerful smiling man, about 20 years older than me, celebrating with me my fine Hemingway style catch. Our wives are down below, getting over seasickness. We’ve all suffered and why it’s so horrible I will never know. I began to feel a little better when I was up on deck fishing, for the first, and last, time in my life. Our honeymoon had not been incident free. The first episode started on one of those day trip “pirate” style ship voyages along the coast which we sailed on with
I
the same couple. Too much rum punch, too much sun and too little shade; from about lunchtime onwards my memory of the day fades and indeed becomes pure white and then blank. I went to bed early saying I was going to die. Not a great start to married life. Having said that, our friend was also similarly stricken and his wife sensibly said to mine: “We’ll go off to dinner while they sleep it off”. It was, as you may have noticed from the date, the year of the Falklands and the Task Force was heading south. There were rumours of 747s being requisitioned by the Armed Forces; how would we get home? There was the added worry: would I be called up? I had after all been in the TA. And then there was the day trip to Union Island and the Grenadines, flying in a Norman Islander light aircraft, a bit too light for me as I prefer my aircraft large, sitting in rows as if in a small cinema. We landed on an airstrip carved out in a narrow passage of rough ground between the shoulder of a hill on the left, covered in banana trees, and the beach on the right. Not much room to swing a cat, let alone land an aircraft. But we landed safely and had our passports stamped in what was no more than a garden shed. Lunch was served on a boat moored off an idyllic Caribbean island the size of a tennis court, to which we swam. I wonder if it’s even there now what with global warming? And what could possibly go wrong in such an earthly paradise? Somehow we knew something was up when the pilot (only one of them, there I go again) asked me to reach behind me into the locker for some more maps. St Lucia was
closed, he said, because of a tropical storm (I could see the massive storm building up ahead quite well for myself, thank-you) and we would be landing in Martinique. He suggested we put our fingers in our ears and then the aircraft pirouetted vertically downwards though a gap in the clouds and onto the international runway at Martinique. We were to stay the night. Martinique was very French, as though we were in Montmartre: gendarmes, black coffee in huge cups in the morning and fresh French bread. We spent a happy evening with the pilot who, having looked after us for dinner, went out on the town, he said, to see a few friends in a bar or two. When we got back next morning our “honeymoon” friends, their names were Pamela and Brian, greeted us. They had missed us and wondered what had happened. Over the fortnight we had come to know them well. They were both unassuming. We thought Brian must have a job in the theatre as Pamela picked him up from London late each night, but it turned out, after some gentle prodding, that Brian (we should have recognised his trade mark growling, but soft and melodious, voice) compered the Round Midnight programme on BBC Radio 2, and then for many years “Sounds of the Sixties”, and, yes, this was the Brian Matthew who had travelled with the Beatles. “Gentle and kindly away from the mike”, The Times recent obituary said of Brian. Pamela and Brian took us, fledglings in marriage, under their wings and for that many thanks. James Chatfield 2017
JUNE 2017 63
Specialising in Good Quality Garden Buildings with Excellent Customer Service
Sheds - Summerhouses - Garden Rooms - Greenhouses
Garden Buildings Woodcote Green Ltd At Woodcote Green Garden Centre Woodmansterne Lane, Wallington SM6 0SU
0208 773 2332
www.gardenbuildingswoodcotegreen.co.uk COME AND VISIT US - OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
C H A R I T I E S
CHARITY ACTION LIST Feeling charitable? Or just want to get involved in some interesting local activities? Or both! Here’s what’s coming up in the next 3 months. Bob Gunn Saturday 17 June 7.30pm Midsummer Serenade at the Good Shepherd Church, Tadworth KT20 5AS An extravaganza of vocal, instrumental and dramatic entertainment organised by Jill McGuire and starring Paul Arden-Griffith from Phantom of the Opera. Also featuring Jill McGuire, Sandra Gayer, The Laird Academy and The Heart & Soul Choir. Cocktails and canapés. Tickets £20 (children 16 and under £10) from: www.ticketsource.co.uk/goodshepherdtadworth Proceeds in aid of Good Shepherd Church Organ Restoration Fund, Home-Start and Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust. Saturday 24 June 7.30pm Strings & Pimms at Tadworth Court Victoria Yellop, the entertaining young international violinist will perform a special summer concert in the unique surroundings of Tadworth Court Mansion. A glass of Pimms is included in the £15 ticket price. As well as enjoying an evening of fun and music you will be raising funds for The Friends of the Children’s Trust to support the vital work done at Tadworth Court for children with brain injury. For tickets please contact Bob Gunn 01737 360035 or bob@gunn.org July dates below: Gatton Community Theatre present “If a Sparrow Should Fall” Performances will take place on: Weds 12, Thurs 13, Fri 14, Sun 16, Weds 19, Thurs 20, Fri 21 and Sun 23rd July 2017 all at 7.30pm in the grounds of Gatton Park, Reigate RH2 0TW The play follows Legion, a homeless ex-serviceman, his dog and a sparrow on a journey of self-discovery, friendship and love. Tickets from www.ticketsource.co.uk/gct Sunday 6 August 2 to 5.30pm 41 Shelvers Way, Tadworth KT20 5QJ Keith Lewis’ Open Garden Part of the National Garden Scheme and always worth seeing. Entry £4. Afternoon Tea, Coffee & Cakes provided by TWOAT to help fund their overseas aid projects. Congratulations to anyone from Kingswood who ran the London Marathon for charity. We would love to hear your story! If there is a local charity event in the period September, October, November, not otherwise covered in Village Voice, which you would like to bring to the attention of our readers, please send brief information to Bob Gunn bob@gunn.org before the next copy date.
JUNE 2017 65
A D V E R T I S E R S AJS Tyres
Page 60
I N D E X
George Dyankov
Page 19
A K Gulati and Co Solicitors Page 51
JP Electrical
Page 49
Balcombe Care Homes
Page 22
Julian Batcheler
Page 39
Burge and Gunson
Page 67
Kennedys
Page 52
Capel Tree Surgeons
Page 40
Kingswood Golf and Country Page 6
Carpets 4U
Page 5
Lester Designs
Cheam Windows
Page 15
LT Electrical
Page 43
Christine Barras
Page 40
Memory Book
Page 54
Coulsdon Home Hardware
Page 20
Norsat
Page 23
Dave Ford Tree Care
Page 10
Reigate Garden Centre
Page 13
David Legg Tree Surgeon
Page 31
Saunders Estate Agents
Page 28
Derek White and Sons
Page 37
Stoneman Funeral Services
Page 32
Drift Bridge Volkswagen
Page 2
Sutton High School
Page 30
Duckworth Gardener
Page 51
Symphony World Travel
Page 36
Fadi
Page 34 & 35
Taurus Waste Recycling
Page 44
Fine & Country Estate Ag’ts Page 68
Total Security Systems
Page 48
Furze Hill Court
Whichcraft
Page 4
Page 18
Page 32
Garden Buildings Woodcote Page 64
L O C A L Surrey Police Crime Stoppers Surrey Police Minicom Victim Support Age Concer n Alzheimer’s Society Banstead Library Banstead Mobility Banstead Day Ctre Benefits Agency Bereavement Support Group Child Guidance Clinic Citizens Advice Bureau
H E L P
0845 1252222 0800 555 111 01483 539999 01737 766323 01737 352156 01372 729988 01737 351271 020 87701151 01737 361712 0800 882200 01737 352156 01737 764704 01737 360632
N U M B E R S Cruse Bereavement Care Help Shop, Banstead Holiday Care Service Hospitals - Epsom General - St Helier - Royal Marsden NSPCC Relate (Marriage Guidance) Reigate & Banstead Council Samaritans SilverLine Social Services Surrey County Council
01737 772834 01737 363178 01293 774535 01375 735735 020 86444343 020 86426011 0800 800 500 01737 245212 01737 276000 01737 248444 0800 4708090 01737 362597 0845 6009009
Editorial and Advertisement Deadlines Please email richard.milbourn@carnah.co.uk or post to:Richard Milbourn, 3 Mount Hill, Mogdor, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7HZ. Tel 01737 222307. Deadline for the September 2017 edition is as follows:Editorial deadline: 31st July 2017 Advertising deadline: 20th July 2017 (a colour page only costs £121!) Please mention the Village Voice when replying to our advertisers.
66 JUNE 2017
Londonn Prudential Ride R July 30thh 2017
£3000T TARGE
For those who o do not know me, my name is Zoe and I have worked for Fine & Countryy, Kingswood since we opened 2009. I am very excited as I havve been accepted to cycle in the Ride London Prudenttial ride on July 30th 2017. The 100 mile cycle route is from the Queen Elizabeth E Olympic Park via Chisw wick, Weybridge, Forest Green, across the Surrey H Hills including the well-known steeep hills, Zig Zags at Boxhill and Leith Hill, then back to o London via Wimbledon and Putney. P 8LMW [MPP FI Q] ½VWX 6MHI 0SRHSR ERH - LEZI GLSWIR XS G]GPI MR EMH SJ 'ERGIV 6IWIEVGL It is a charity close to my heart, as like many of o you I have lost loved ones to cancer. 1] XEVK VKIX MW Â&#x2020; ERH Q] GYVVIRX HSREXMSR ½KYVI MW WMXX XXMRK EX Â&#x2020; EW SJ %TVMP % -J ]SY [SYPH PMOI XS QEOI E HSREX EXMSR MSR TPIEWI TST T MRXS XLI SJ½ J½GI XS WII QI SVV QEOI E donation online at: [[ [[[ NYWXK XKMZMRK GSQ ^SI GGS\
thank you in adv advance! Fine & Country Kingswood ` OMRKW[SSH$½RIERHGSYRXVV]] GSQ 8LI )WXEXI 3JJ½ ½GI ;SSHPERH ;E] Kingswood KT20 6HS
Kings Kingswood swo ood A A5 5 Villa Village age Voice A Advert.indd dve ert.indd 1
26//04/ 26/04/2017 /0 /2017 /2 13:16