ISSUE 149 • JUNE 2019
FEATURING
MAKE A COVER DECISION
The T-Cross Compact SUV. New to the range.
Available at
Drift Bridge Volkswagen Reigate Road, Epsom, KT17 3LA. Telephone: 01737 303274. www.driftbridge.volkswagen.co.uk
Image shown is for illustration purposes only, and may vary from UK specification. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO 2 figures with other vehicles tested to the same technical procedures.These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO 2 figures (known as WLTP). The CO 2 figures shown however, are based on a calculation designed to be equivalent to the outgoing (NEDC) test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. For more information, please see www.volkswagen.co.uk/owners/wltp or consult your retailer. Data correct at 03/19. Figures quoted are for a range of configurations and are subject to change due to ongoing approvals/changes. Please consult your retailer for further information. Official fuel consumption figures for the Volkswagen T-Cross range in mpg (litres/100km): combined 44.8 (6.3) – 48.7 (5.8). Combined CO2 emissions 111 – 115 g/km.
KVCA
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Registered Charity No. 275187 THE VILLAGE HALL, WATERHOUSE LANE, KINGSWOOD KT20 6EB
Chairman
Bob Gunn Kingsdene, Furze Hill, Kingswood KT20 6EP Tel: 07504 060758 Email: bob@gunn.org Secretary Michael Hannah 1 Lilley Drive, Kingswood KT20 6JA Tel: 01737 830893 Email: mehannah@tiscali.co.uk Treasurer Antony Hawker The Holt, Alcocks Lane, Kingswood KT20 6BB Tel: 01737 358097 Email: KVCA@Palmerston.co.uk Committee Members: Lindsay Cole Tel: 01737 201199 Sally Fish Tel: 01737 832176 James Chatfield Tel: 01737 353248 Penny Chatfield Tel: 01737 353248 Peter Wormald Tel: 01737 832866 KADDS Judy Parnall Tel: 01737 830888 Hall Bookings Penny Chatfield Tel: 01737 353248 Email: pen.chatfield@btinternet.com (Strictly between 5pm and 8pm, Monday to Friday only) Hall Manager Simon Peacock Mobile: 07376 164050 Life President KADDS Lady Janet Hill The Village Voice Editor Richard Milbourn 64 Sandlands Road, Walton on the Hill, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7XA Tel: 01737 222307 Email: richard.milbourn@carnah.co.uk The print run for The Village Voice is 1,500 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. To advertise call 01737 222307 KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE
JUNE 2019
3
CONTENTS JUNE 2019 3
KVCA Contacts
32
Kingswood Photographs
6
Your Chairman’s Notes
34
Kingswood Village WI
8
Make A Cover Decision
36
Thirteen Society
10
Kingswood Residents
38
Inspired Villages Group
Association
40
Local Business - Kingswood
12
KADDS Review
14
News From KADDS
42
Sarah’s Garden Jottings
16
Writers’ Corner
44
Sarah Lott Story -
18
Neighbourhood Watch
Pinching Pants And Other
20
Memory Lane –
Fatherhood Foibles
Wines
Diana Hearn
46
Kingswood Lawn Tennis Club
24
The Church in Kingswood
48
Featured Charity –
27
Flower Arrangement Group
28
NSPCC
49
Charity Action List
30
Anne Dobson’s Recipes
50
Advertisers Index
4
JUNE 2019
Independent Age
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
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K I N G S W O O D V I L L A G E C O M M U N I T Y A S S O C I AT I O N
YOUR CHAIRMAN’S NOTES
T
he KVCA and KADDS held their respective AGMs just before Easter and there was a positive feeling in the air that evening about the coming year for both organisations. You can read all about KADDS’ exciting plans in Judy Parnall’s article on page 14. The KVCA is concentrating on upgrading the Hall in line with its recent Fire Safety Audit and making other improvements so that our Hall is even more attractive to both established and new users. We said a heart-felt “thank you” to two of our Trustees who stepped down from the committee at the AGM, Rosemary Akerman and Roger Dring. And we welcomed as new Trustees, Antony Hawker, who has taken over as Treasurer from Roger Dring, and Lindsay Cole. So your new KVCA Committee now comprises: • Chairman: Bob Gunn • Secretary: Michael Hannah • Treasurer: Antony Hawker • Trustees: James Chatfield, Penny Chatfield, Lindsay Cole, Sally Fish, Peter Wormald At the AGM I thanked all of them for their much-valued input which keeps the KVCA running – from Hall bookings, to our flower bed (looking particularly attractive in April), to articles for Village Voice, to Hall safety. I would also like to thank the many others who help us with these tasks, especially our Editor Richard Milbourn, Hall Managers Simon & Sheila Peacock, Kartik & Sonal Shah who act as our Box Office at Kingswood Village Store, Simon Parnall our Audio-Visual system guru, Susie Homes re publicity for the Hall, James Jackson our independent financial examiner and our many Village Voice contributors and distributors. We need
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JUNE 2019
you all and we appreciate the time and expertise you give us. Thank you! I am delighted that Lisa Davies will be working with us this year to bring more live music events to the Hall. Lisa works in the music and entertainment industry and is also a member of the excellent local band Atlantis. Your first opportunity to hear Atlantis this year will be at the end of July when, for a give-away price of only £10, you’ll be able to hear them play some of your favourite summer sounds. Other dates and artists are in the pipeline. I am also excited that Tracy Clampitt is planning to run a monthly Craft Workshop in the Hall on a Saturday. The first two will be on 15 June and 13 July. See the KVCA noticeboards at the Hall and outside Symphony Travel for more details soon. And don’t forget the continuing weekly Yoga, Tai Chi, Ballet, Dance, Fitness and Health sessions. More positive news concerns some of our businesses in Waterhouse Lane. It is great for the village that Post Office services are once again available at Kingswood Village Store. These include full postal service, Parcel Force, cash and cheque deposits, cash withdrawals, postal orders, electronic bill payments, top ups and foreign currency. A little further along the road, Kuda Madzivanyika now has Kingswood Wines up and running – you can read more of his story on page 40. And a bit further still brings you to the Kingswood Arms, which is now under new Fullers management. I have spoken to their Interim Manager and they are very keen to get more involved with the village and village groups. There is movement on proposals for the ex-Legal & General site on St Monica’s Road, which, if approved, could have a big effect on the village, both during any construction
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
K I N G S W O O D V I L L A G E C O M M U N I T Y A S S O C I AT I O N
phase and when finally completed. Turn to page 38 to find out what is being considered. The KVCA will be involved in a Working Group led by the KRA to ensure that the interests of the current village residents, businesses and groups are fully represented. And finally, the September edition of Village Voice will be our 150th – quite a landmark, representing over 37 years bringing news and information to Kingswood. I would like to invite all of our regular contributors to mark this milestone with their next contribution. And I also invite any of our readers who would like to contribute a special article to do so. You can also play a part by looking at the different Village Voice Cover designs which have been proposed. See the article on page 8. Then let me know your views. Please flood me with your responses! Bob Gunn, Chairman KVCA
THE KINGSWOOD
VILLAGE VOICE Editorial & Advertisement Next Deadline: 31st July
Please contact Richard Milbourn, Editor, on 01737 222307 or email richard.milbourn@carnah.co.uk 64 Sandlands Road, Walton on the Hill, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7XA
Full colour page for only £133 Half page for only £79
Please mention KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE when responding to adverts
JUNE 2019
7
K I N G S W O O D V I L L A G E C O M M U N I T Y A S S O C I AT I O N
MAKE A COVER DECISION
I
n the March edition of Village Voice I told you that we would consider whether or not to change the cover design for Village Voice, with any new design used for the first time on our 150th edition in September. The current cover has been used almost unchanged since at least 2008, which is the earliest
copy I have; probably a lot longer! There are arguments for continuity and arguments for change. The KVCA Trustees and our Village Voice editor Richard Milbourn will make the final decision, but we want the input of you, our readers, to inform our decision. Set out below you can see the current cover and rough drafts of 6 alternatives which have been short-listed. In each case our intention is to change the colour of the title with the seasons for each of the 4 editions. In addition there will be the following seasonal changes: Cover C: The photographs will be of different Kingswood views in the appropriate season. Cover D: The photograph will be of a different Kingswood view in the appropriate season. Cover E: The flower featured each time will be appropriate to the season. Cover F: The photograph will be of a different Kingswood view with extra revenue from an advertisement. Please let me know which cover you prefer, either by sending me an email to bob@gunn.org or sending me a letter (my address is on page 3). All you need to send me is your name and the letter indicating the cover which is your first choice. If you would like to put the other covers in order of your preference, that would be even more helpful. And if you would like to send your reasons as well I will read them with interest. Please do reply. It will make our decision much more satisfactory if there is a large response. And your preferences will help us if there happens to be a Brexit-thin majority! Bob Gunn
A
B
ISSUE 150 • SEPTEMBER 2019
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ISSUE 150 • SEPTEMBER 2019
FEATURING
FEATURING
FEATURE ARTICLE TITLE
FEATURE ARTICLE TITLE
JUNE 2019
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
K I N G S W O O D V I L L A G E C O M M U N I T Y A S S O C I AT I O N
C ISSUE 150 • SEPTEMBER 2019
D
THE KINGSWOOD
VILLAGE VOICE KINGSWOOD
VILLAGE
COMMUNITY
A S S O C I AT I O N
Issue No. 150
September 2019
FEATURING
FEATURE ARTICLE TITLE Feature Article Title
E ISSUE 150 • SEPTEMBER 2019
F
THE KINGSWOOD
VILLAGE VOICE KINGSWOOD
VILLAGE
COMMUNITY
Issue No. 150
A S S O C I AT I O N September 2019
Your Local Family Independent Estate Agents for Tadworth & Walton on the H and surrounding areas. Local People with Local Knowledge providing a professional friendly customer focus service, tailored to individual clients requirements to achieve the best possible price for your property. FEATURING
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Feature Article Title
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JUNE 2019
9
K I N G S W O O D R E S I D E N T S A S S O C I AT I O N
RETIREMENT VILLAGE PROPOSED AT LEGAL & GENERAL SITE
F
irstly, I would like to introduce myself as the new Chair of the KRA. I bring to this role over 30 years global experience in architecture, project management and business leadership across several sectors. As a key focus of the KRA is to protect the character of our village through encouraging ‘appropriate’ development, I believe that my experience will add value. There are currently two local developments of importance to our village:The Station site works are now well under way. The new set-down area and car park work well, and the drainage improvements at the bottom of Furze Hill should address the road flooding problem. These works, and the extensive renovation to the Station building, should significantly enhance the ‘gateway’ into Kingswood. We are currently awaiting the commencement of construction of the housing component. The L&G site, having stood vacant for some time, “Inspired Villages Group” (IVG) who are part of L&G, are developing proposals for a retirement village. The KRA has set up a working group with members from KRA and KVCA, to monitor, review and provide feedback to IVG on their emerging proposals. We will meet with IVG regularly and will relay comments or concerns of our
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JUNE 2019
Residents. One key issue that will need to be addressed is traffic generation, both during construction and once the retirement village is operational. I hope many of you participated in the public consultation at the L&G site on 17 and 18 May. We will share links to the IVG proposals as these develop and welcome your comments at kingswoodviewsonlng@gmail.com The KRA AGM was held on 26 March and once again the Village Hall was filled. Guest Speakers included Inspector Angie Austin and PS CliftonSinclair of Surrey Police, Paul Wyborn of Govia Thameslink, the holding company for Southern Rail and Jamie Bunce and Keith Cockell from IVG. On behalf of the KRA and the Residents, I would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to Des Camblin for his valuable contribution as Chair of the KRA since 30 April 2013. We have been privileged to have had Des representing our interests for the past 6 years, including his work alongside the Council relative to the Strategic Planning Document, Station Site, and most recently the challenge to the Boundary Commission. All these initiatives have significantly benefitted Kingswood village and we are grateful to Des for the part he played in their success. Valerie Evans (Chair KRA)
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KADDS REVIEW
S U C C E S S F U L FA R C E The production of "Beyond a Joke", the comedy by Derek Benfield, performed by KADDS back in February just missed the deadline for the March edition of Village Voice. But it was so well received that it deserves a review, even after 3 months. Here is what Surrey Mirror correspondent Mike Fox thought of it.
T
he production of "Beyond a Joke" certainly generated a lot of laughs from the 80 or so who attended Kingswood Village Hall on Saturday February 23. The genre was "bedroom farce", although on this occasion the need to conceal what was going on concerned an embarrassing number of (possibly) accidental deaths with bodies piling up at inconvenient moments when other important guests were expected. Joy Seymour and Mike Hill were well cast as the householders, with Joy displaying a very effective ability to screech when under pressure. Steve Bonnett was the prospective son-in-law
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JUNE 2019
and managed to credibly sustain his character's apparent conviction that foul play might be involved and was very good at deploying a sudden booming "NO" when he thought another person might be about to be poisoned. All the cast performed well and there was some clever manipulation to get one of the dead bodies into a wheelbarrow. Director Georgie Lucas maintained a rapid pace and the split stage design between house and garden worked well. All in all another fine production from KADDS. Mike Fox
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
ROGER DRING
The Kingswood Villag ge Community Association Presents
ATL LANTIS LIVE IN CONCERT
Summer Sounndss of the 60s 0ss and 70s 0s
Photo: Nicola Rowley Photogrra aphy
The very po opular local band will w perform a fine se election of the best-known classic hits of the ɼɶʭÜ and 70ʭs; favourites that span the generations, includi l ng the music of: The Beatles, Cliff Richard, Roy Orbison, Neil Diamond, Abba, Eagles, The Carpe enters and lots moreʎ
THE KINGSW WOOD VILLAGE HALL Waterhouse Lan L e, Kingswood KT20 6EB
Saturday 27thh July 2019 at 7.30pm Ticke ets £10 available from Kingswood Village Sto S re, Waterhouse Lane, Kingswood Or online from Ticket Source www.tic cketsource.co.uk/kadds For fu urther details pleas se contact Lisa Davies on 07770 328232 www.atlantis-online.co.uk
To advertise call 01737 222307 KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE
JUNE 2019
13
NEWS FROM KADDS
C O M E A N D WAT C H R U M O U R S
A
t the recent KADDS’ AGM I reviewed the last twelve months of KADDS activities and this led me to think back over the three years since I took over the committee chair from Rosie Akerman. It’s certainly been an active time. We continue to put on three or four productions each year. We have had a range of plays, from the drama of a Pack of Lies to the farce of Beyond a Joke via Alice the Panto and not forgetting the Christmas fun that is Crackers. We have seen consistently outstanding sets built by Peter Dell who seems to be unfazed by any challenge thrown at him, even cutting a van in half for The Lady in the Van. And Maggie Kippen seems to be able to find the appropriate costumes whatever is asked for. We have recently welcomed a few new helpers. Bob Ebert has painted beautiful backdrops for us and we have new help on props. But to put on a play takes a huge amount of effort offstage and without a bigger pool of help the jobs fall on a few shoulders. It only takes a few key people to be away and we can struggle. KADDS is an incredibly friendly and supportive groups – no artistic temperament – and the plays are really fun to work with. I only came first to bring my
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son to a panto audition, but the warmth and welcome drew me in and I have had and continue to have a lot of fun in my involvement. So please do give me a ring and come and join us. We are currently looking for directors for 2020, so if you want to check out your directing please let me know. And if you would like to have a go at treading the boards, why don’t you audition for our Autumn play – Murder in Play by Simon Brett? Auditions will be held on July 14th so contact me if you’d like details. Finally I’d like pay tribute to George Ferguson and Dick Palmer who stood down from the committee at the AGM. George Ferguson has been a member of KADDS for many years in many roles, and his unfailing good humour has lightened many a meeting. And Dick Palmer has worked so hard, most recently as Artistic Director recruiting directors and reading many plays. They are both going to continue to perform so I’m not sure whether their wives will get quite as much more of their time as they might hope! As you read this, the curtain will be about to go up for the classic Neil Simon comedy, Rumours. We do hope that you will come and watch it. Tickets are on sale now and can be bought on the door (unless, of course, we’ve sold out). Judy Parnall judy.parnall@me.com 01737 830888
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
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JUNE 2019
15
WRITERS’ CORNER This quarter we are celebrating the return to our pages of Anna Brown, Kingswood resident, member of the Tennis Club and the author of poems which often see things from of different angle. Here’s looking at you, Anna! Bob Gunn
Me and My Mirror Ladies, what is it they tell us? Well! They tell us our mirrors don’t lie. I can tell you from my experience That is a big fat lie. Just today when I looked in my mirror Good heavens, what did I see? A face I couldn’t recognize Was staring back at me. Who was this peculiar stranger? Whoever could she be? How did she get in my mirror, Scaring the life out of me? I just couldn’t recognize her No matter how hard I tried, So I looked a little closer. Good grief, I nearly died! I surely can’t deny it; That is me, me looking back. It must have happened overnight. Help, I need a new facepack! I know I am getting on a bit, A fact I cannot deny, But boy can I work wonders – With a facial and a good blow dry. I must stop looking into my mirror, It’s just too depressing for me, But I have found the perfect pick-me-up. A great big G and T ! Anna Brown I would be delighted to receive poems or prose in some way connected to our 150th edition of Village Voice. Please send them to me by 26 July. Bob Gunn bob@gunn.org
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JUNE 2019
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JUNE 2019
17
N E I G H B O U R H O O D W AT C H
THE FUTURE OF SURREY POLICING David Munro, and the recently appointed
T
emphasised included Neighbourhood Watch,
Surrey Chief Constable, Gavin Stevens, are
Residents Associations and CrimeStoppers as well
presenting plans for the Future of Surrey Policing
as Sussex Police, the NHS and Local Authority
and taking questions from residents at a series of
staff. With respect to the NHS he noted that
meetings in each borough. The following
many incidents require attendance by both
provides details from the Reigate meeting.
Police and Paramedics and an experiment is
he Surrey Police & Crime Commissioner,
The Police in Surrey are currently handling of
The Partnerships the Chief Constable
being trialled in Waverley with joint teams.
the order of 1,100 calls per day of which only
When he talked about Potential he was mainly
10% relate directly to crime and a further 10%
referring to the value of intelligence that the
to anti-social behaviour. On average 30 people
Police gather both directly through reports to
are taken into custody each day, 16 missing
101 and online or indirectly via their
persons enquiries are ongoing and 10 road
partnerships.
traffic accidents are being attended. In 2012 the
The Borough Inspector, Angie Austin,
Police received 4,500 reports concerning
described how the Police were using events such
domestic abuse, but over 9,000 in 2018. In the
as bike marking as a way of making contact with
same period reports of missing children have
younger people. They are also planning to do
gone from 600 to 2,000 and the number of
more work with schools and colleges. She
reported rapes and serious sexual assaults has
described how the crime statistics in an area can
gone from 238 to around 900. Police
be impacted if that area includes a prison. She
investigating crime are more likely to be using
gave examples of drug dealers deliberately
technology such as checking mobile phone
committing low level crimes having previously
records than engaging in house-to-house
ingested drugs so that they could get inside
enquiries. These facts go a long way to
prison where drugs attract a higher price.
explaining why residents often complain about
During the question and answer sessions
the lack of visible policing. However, Gavin
residents were recommended to protect their
Stevens stated that the majority of the new
keyless car entry fobs by putting them in special
money generated by the Council Tax increase
wallets or even a metal biscuit tin to prevent
will go on front line policing.
thieves from using signal boosters. It was also
He stated that he has three priorities in his
mentioned that sophisticated criminals can use
new role – Prevention, Partnerships and
technology to defeat car tracking devices – one
Potential. For Prevention he wants to see his
resident commented that he had gone back to
Police working closely with young people and
using an old Krooklock as a cheap way to
there will be two extra officers in each borough
prevent his steering wheel from turning.
working on youth crime prevention. Both he and
The PCC and Chief Constable will be holding
David Munro emphasised how young people
an online Q&A for those that
could be used by organised criminal gangs in the
were unable to attend the
context of drugs. They urged those members of
borough meetings – the date
the community, who took a relaxed view
and web address will be
towards drug taking, to consider the human cost
published on the PCC’s web
and misery involved along the drug supply chain.
site. Mike Fox
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JUNE 2019
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
MEMORY LANE
DIANA HEARN
M
y introduction to this lovely part of Surrey began in Banstead in 1975. We bought a house on the Brighton Road which we really could not afford at the time, but it had a garden of a good size for the children and made my husband’s trips to Gatwick much easier. The Council Offices were across the A217 as was the pub ‘The Wheatsheaf’. Now, of course, car showrooms and a petrol station have changed the outlook. After Geoff and I had finished our successful competitive dancing career Geoff was much in demand in Europe and the Far East, teaching and lecturing to the growing numbers of dancers, and I was restless and looking for something other than taking and fetching the younger children to and from school. In Banstead High Street there was a dress shop called ‘Miss Mann’, owned by the family who ran the ‘Lotus Room’ Chinese restaurant. They wished to sell, so with advice from a friend in retail we bought what we re-christened ‘La Peron’. We moved to the flat over the shop which was something of a squeeze and I travelled up and down to the fashion wholesale houses in London, learning as I went along. In retrospect it was a bad time for small retailers but the two younger children were happy at the local schools and I was busy! Fate stepped in in the person of a very well known lady of the dance world – Peggy Spencer. She had found an ideal venue for a
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JUNE 2019
Geoff and Diana Hearn.
studio – too large to take on without partners. She persuaded us to join her in what became a beautiful and successful studio in PENGE! We sold La Peron and decamped to Beckenham, a short car ride to the Dance Centre – and I began a very happy time teaching adults and children very full time. Six years in a 3storey, narrow town house made Geoff miserable, so we moved to a larger detached house in West Wickham, from where our eldest moved out, second son got married and daughter was posted to Beijing with the Foreign Office. We had been at the Dance Centre for 16 years when Peggy wanted to retire and her son took over. We decided more time for ‘us’ was needed and Geoff visited many agents to try to find C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 2
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
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MEMORY LANE
C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 0
a house in Surrey. Eventually he lit upon Forest Drive in Kingswood and fell in love with the view across the valley from our sitting room. So in 2000 we moved in. The Station was close at hand with easy access to London, and the shops in the Village were very convenient – the ironmongers would sell you just 3 screws if that was all you wanted! The diverse styles of the houses in Kingswood then were so attractive. Now, unfortunately, many have been or are being demolished and replaced by modern ‘mansions’ that all, to me, tend to look alike. The character of Kingswood has definitely changed. It can be difficult to meet new people and make friends in a new environment, but I had a next-door neighbour who took me to a W.I.
meeting where I was welcomed by everyone, and heard about another group – the famous KADDS – where I met enthusiastic and like-minded people. I have been in lots of productions with KADDS since then – pantomimes (for which I was pleased to help with choreography, as well as acting), comedies, murder whodunnits – most recently as Sarah in ‘Beyond a Joke’ this February. We are lucky to have a Village Hall which adapts to many events, and although I am a relative newcomer to Kingswood – only 19 years! – it is home and I now have my eldest son and his daughter living with me. Therefore I have Company, Comradeship and Countryside in this corner of Surrey. Diana Hearn
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KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
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JUNE 2019
23
THE CHURCH IN KINGSWOOD
WEALTH WITHOUT A VALUE
A
number of my friends are ‘downsizing’ at
“someone has robbed me!”
the moment and I must admit it’s got me
“Your gold! There in that hole? Why did you
starting to clear out some the things I’ve
put it there? Why didn’t you keep it in the house where you could easily get it when you had to
accumulated over the years. I remember this story from a long time ago:
buy things?” “Buy!” screamed the Miser angrily.
A Miser had buried his gold in a secret place in
“Why, I never touched the gold. I couldn’t think of
his garden. Every day he went to the spot, dug
spending any of it.”
up the treasure and counted it piece by piece to
The stranger picked up a large stone and threw
make sure it was all there. He made so many
it into the hole. “If that’s the case,” he said,
trips that a Thief, who had been watching him,
“cover up that stone. It’s worth just as much to
guessed what it was the Miser had hidden, and
you as the treasure you lost!”
one night quietly dug up the treasure and made
What use do we make of what we have? Saving, spending wisely and
off with it. When the Miser discovered his loss, he was
appropriately is a good sign if we
overcome with grief and despair. He groaned
do it for a good purpose.
and cried and tore his hair. A passer-by heard
Otherwise, a possession is worth
his cries and asked what had happened. “My
no more than the use we make of
gold! O my gold!” cried the Miser, wildly,
it. Chris Colton, Priest in charge
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JUNE 2019
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
EST. 2004
In June 2004, I made the bold decision to start my own property agency business, and thus Kennedys-ipa was formed. From a small office in Walton, I set out to create my own legacy, to really look at how I could, in some small but significant way, change the opinion on how our industry was perceived by the general public.The previous decade certainly saw a shift in the industry, with a greater share of the market being taken by good quality independent agents who knew their patch and often formed part of their community. I was able to oblige on both counts, and as we enter our fifteenth year, I can honestly say that it has been harder work than I could have ever imagined. Since then, we have established a strong brand and a very experienced team on both sales and lettings departments, as well as having a strong Land and New Homes division. High levels of personal service and some of the best photography/presentation used by any agent in our area, are amongst the reasons that are quality is recognised by home owners and Landlords. I have particularly enjoyed establishing a strong relationship with many Kingswood residents over the
KINGSWOOD OFFICE: Paxton House Waterhouse Lane Kingswood Surrey KT20 6EJ
past fifteen years and being part of the community here. As many of you may know, we ran our annual charity golf day at Surrey Downs Golf Club for 12 years and then in 2018 moved the event to the wonderful venue at Kingswood Golf Club, where we will be again this year on June 13th, in support of George and the Giant Pledge. I have supported the resident’s association through sponsorship of the road signs over the past 5 years, and am strongly behind the efforts being made by Wendy Llambias and the directors of WRSCIC ltd in making your homes and the village a safer place to live. Last year I was delighted to agree a sponsorship deal with KingswoodTennis Club, with a particular aim to focus on growing youth membership, which grew considerably in 2018. It really is a great club and I would certainly encourage anyone interested in playing to get in touch with them and pay a visit. Thank you for taking time to read my offering. As we step ever closer to lighter evenings and the spring months, I wish you good health and hope to catch you again in the next edition.
Peter Kennedy
T: 01737 817718 E: info@kennedys-ipa.co.uk www.kennedys-ipa.co.uk
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FLOWER ARRANGEMENT GROUP
INSPIRED BY COCO CHANEL KINGSWOOD, TADWORTH AND WALTON FLOWER ARRANGEMENT GROUP Held in the Village Hall, Waterhouse Lane, Kingswood every 2nd Tuesday in the month. he theme for our February demonstration was ‘Coco’ – yes you guessed it , inspired by Coco Chanel. In addition to several stunning arrangements, we were treated to two in Ikebana style – the Japanese art of flower arranging dating back to the 7th Century. This is a disciplined art form where nature and humanity are brought together. The beautiful arrangement pictured was made by our March demonstrator, Claire Bryant, who won a silver medal last year at Chelsea. Claire’s theme of ‘under the influence’ produced a wide variety of arrangements and she was very inventive and creative in trying to reduce the use of floral foam which, because it is made from open cell plastic takes years to biodegrade. Apparently the rest of Europe is not so keen on floral foam as we are in the UK. Using a metal ring base, Claire constructed her own frame using natural resources. Our April meeting was the AGM and a reminder that this is the diamond anniversary of both NAFAS and the KTW Flower Arrangement Group – an exciting year!
T
Our members are celebrating National Flower Arranging Day on 3rd May by making some friendship bouquets to distribute in the three villages – maybe you will find one or be given one by a neighbour. We look forward to our next meeting on 14th May where the title is ‘ Arabian Nights’. Our June meeting is on Tuesday 11th with our fundraising Strawberry Tea on Tuesday 25th June. Do come along to our meetings – we would love to see you. For more information contact either Chris Harris (833726) or Jane Hollington (354208).
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 To advertise call 01737 222307 KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE
JUNE 2019
27
NSPCC - EVERY CHILD IS WORTH FIGHTING FOR
LOYAL CERTIFICATE AWARDED
O
ur Surrey Chairman of the NSPCC, Mrs Angie Peters MBE had the honour on behalf of the Trustees of presenting a Loyal Certificate to Jane Hollington (above right). Angie said that Jane has been an outstanding, loyal and valued member of Kingswood Committee for over 30 years with a huge commitment to the Charity. She has been at every one of our events and has played a major part in planning and running the various fundraising activities. Jane has many talents shown in a quiet and methodical way, always checking that we have the correct paperwork, drinks licence and health and safety report for example. As well as her cooking and baking skills which are exemplary. Angie thanked her for her wonderful support, enthusiasm and commitment and said she will be greatly missed. However, she has very kindly offered to take over the responsibility of running the Kingswood Tennis Tournament, so we shall look forward to the continued smooth running of the Spring event, held by kind permission of our owners at private Courts and the Kingswood Tennis Club Committee. Angie Peters MBE, Chairman SE Surrey NSPCC
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JUNE 2019
Kingswood NSPCC Annual Tennis Day he NSPCC tennis tournament at Kingswood Lawn Tennis Club was played on a chilly day but this didn’t deter our tennis players. The final was played between Pam Maslin and Ann Nicholson and Kate Cannaway and Ann Windle. After a very close match Pam Maslin and Ann Nicholson were the eventual winners. Congratulations to them. Robin Hollington (Club Chairman) and Jane Chalkley very kindly acted as umpires. All the players enjoyed a delicious two course lunch, afternoon tea and cakes prepared by the Kingswood NSPCC committee. Our thanks must go to Jane Hollington for all her hard work organising the day and to Robin and Jane for their help and acting as Chair Umpires. Special thanks must also go to Kingswood Tennis Club for the use of their courts, wonderful Club house and all it’s facilities and to Carrie Barden, Caroline Houlding and Pam Maslin whose garden courts were used for the preliminary rounds. A fantastic sum of £1,200 was raised for the Charity.
T
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
Now N ooww O Open! Op peen!! ppen Banstea Bans Ba ea ad d Manor Mano Man orr iss our ou o urr sttunning unn u nin ng g new care h home om me iin n Bans Banstead ad. a d. B Buil uillt u on o n ov overr 20 0 yyea earrs o off e exp xperienc eriencce e, Ba Ban ansstea tead dM Manor ano o off offfers a sta ate e-of-o oftthe-art th he e-ar artt cinema, cin ne em ma, ther ma tth he errapy ro oom, oo om m,, ha m hair haiirr sal salo on na and nd n d ca afé. é. Alo A ongside ngside ng e our ourr high hiig h gh quality qu q ualityy care are, re esident s den nts can al also a lso o enjo enjoyy o our ur ran an nge ge of in of inclusiv ncl clussiv ive ser ser ervic vicce es a and nd var n aried riie ed d dining d nin din ng g options opttion op onss as as part part of pa of our o ou urr wel w elllbeing lb be eiin ng pr ng prog ogrram amm mme. m me. me Get G ett in in touc uch u ch h to oda od ay to mak make m ke an an a ap appointment pp poiintm po ntm ment nt or or fo or m mor orre iinf o nfo n ormation. or rm mati t on n Plea P ease e ase speak as ssp pe ea ak to Melis Meli Me e isssa sa, B Bans ansstea an ead e ad d Ma M Manor’ anor or’s Cu Cus usto omer mer Rel me ela lationship attio ion on nssh hiip Manager M ana ag ger, on o 01 017 1737 73 37 77 747062 74 47 7062 2. Bans B an nste ead ea ad M Manor anor Car Care H Home Home, m 8 Bright Brrig gh htton on roa oad ad,, Bans Ba anste ead, ad d, Surr Surrrey, SM7 SM7 SM M7 1B 1B BS S www.ha ww hallmark allllm ma arkcareh ehomes.c omes.co. o.uk uk k
ANN DOBSON’S RECIPES
A TASTE OF SUMMER
W
oods are awash with oceans of bluebells and their scent drifts on the gentle breeze. Creamy mats of lacy elderflower decorate the hedgerows and each day seems to bring new life to the countryside as birds compete to make the most tuneful song. On languorous summer days when it’s too hot to spend time in the kitchen, this chilled soup takes only minutes to whizz up and tastes full of fresh, zingy Mediterranean flavour. Salmon and asparagus tart makes a delicious centrepiece for a buffet lunch or even a seaside picnic.
S PA N I S H S O U P F O R 4
400g can chopped tomatoes Small clove of garlic sliced ½ bunch spring onions, sliced 1 cucumber, diced ½ large red pepper, diced 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar ½ teaspoon sugar Put the tomatoes in a blender and add the chopped vegetables, reserving some of the cucumber for later. Blitz. Now add the oil, vinegar and sugar and blitz again. Add a little water if it is too thick, chill well and serve with the diced cucumber and some croutons on the side.
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JUNE 2019
SALMON & ASPARAGUS TART FOR 4
375g shortcrust pastry 12 thin asparagus tips 100g pack hot smoked salmon flakes 1 egg 100ml low fat crème fraiche Trim the asparagus to fit in a wheel pattern in a 17cm round loose-bottomed flan case and then blanch in boiling water for 1 minute. Roll out the pastry and use to line the tin. Prick all over and then chill. In the meantime heat the oven to 200oC/gas 6 and put a baking sheet in to heat up. Fill the pastry case with baking beans and bake blind for 10-15 minutes. Remove the beans and cook for a further 5 minutes. Beat the egg and paint a little onto the base of the pastry case. Return to the oven for a minute or two to seal the pastry and stop it going soggy. Turn the oven down to 180oC/gas 4. Now mix the eggs into the crème fraiche and season with black pepper. Scatter the flaked salmon over the pastry, pour over the crème fraiche mixture and arrange the blanched asparagus tips over. Return the tart to the oven and bake about 20 minutes until the egg filling has set. Serve warm or cold.
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
KINGSWOOD WINES Permanent Offers
500ml Cans
Stella 4 @ £5.79
San Miguel 4 @ £5.50
Peroni 4 @ £6.00
Budweiser 4 @ £5.50
Corona 4 @ £5.50
Tyskie 4 @ £5.25
Stella 6 @ £6.00
Lech 4 @ £5.00
Birra Moretti 4 @ £5.50
Mix and match any 2 for £12
Isla Negra
Barefoot
Oyster Bay @ £9 each Merlot, Chard, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc
Echo Falls
Lindeman’s @ £6.50 each Bin 65 Chard, Bin 50 Shz
Kumala
Blossom Hill
I heart Prosecco @ £8
19 Crimes @ £9
Spirits
Jack Daniels 70cl @ £20, 1L @ £25 Bombay Sapphire Gin 1L @ £25 Gordons Gin 1L @ £22.50 Smirnoff Vodka 70cl @ £14.99, 1L @ £19.99 Bells, Famous Grouse, Whyte and Mackay, Grants Whiskey 1L @ £20
Come in store for more!!! 10 Waterhouse Lane, Kingswood, KT20 6EB; Tel: 01737 360 264 Please mention KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE when responding to adverts
JUNE 2019
31
KINGSWOOD PHOTOGRAPHS
THE SEASONS IN KINGSWOOD
We usually feature delightful photographs of sunlit trees, fields and flowers around Kingswood. This time, for a change, we are showing what Storm Gareth did to the garden and garage of our readers Val and Derek Knights. Thank you for sending in the photos Val.
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KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
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KINGSWOOD VILLAGE WI
INTERESTING SPEAKERS eather wise we have had variety, snow
W
hard, uncomfortable-looking hat of a Billingsgate
at the beginning of February and even
market porter, on which crates of fish were
summery days in between the early
balanced. A gibus, a flat black disc which, when
spring weather. As you will see, we have also had
shaken, turned into a very stylish top hat, was
variety in our WI doings in this first quarter of
fascinating. There were a huge variety of
2019. At our first meeting we had Michael
sunbonnets, some very simple, some elaborate
Woollard address us on his life and career in
and beautiful and some very old. Of interest was
broadcasting. He started meeting famous people
the agal, the firm black ring which holds the
from the get-go, having been at school with
checked cloth headdress of an Arab man in
Stephen Hawking. After a period as a junior
position. From the headdress of a Buddhist monk
reporter he moved to the BBC and, based in Elstree,
to a Fulani hat from Mali, we enjoyed a colourful
he interviewed Cliff Richard, who he found to be
and riveting afternoon.
an extremely nice man. Moving on from the BBC he
Also in March, a number of members attended
was based in Derbyshire and, sent to see a show, he
the Surrey Federation AGM at the Dorking Halls.
interviewed the star, Jimmy Saville. At the time he
This was yet another worthwhile day and I found
had no inkling of the true character of the man.
the address of Baroness Julia Neuberger on
After Derbyshire Michael spent time in Kenya,
Loneliness, especially interesting and relevant.
Uganda and Tanzania, also working for Reuters.
At our April meeting, Fran Hanrick, told us
During his posting in Uganda, he met Idi Amin,
about the Amish community of Pennsylvania.
whom he found to be truly terrifying, childlike and
Originally of Swiss and German origin, speaking in
ruthless. Back in the UK he moved to television
old German among themselves, they are a
news at Ally Pally and later to White City. He
fascinating group and there is much in their way of
covered news from Belfast and Northern Ireland
life to applaud. The simplicity of their lives, and the
where the situation was very tense, meeting Ian
hard work which keeps them fit into old age is
Paisley, imposing and intimidating, denouncing
admirable. All work is not physical, however, and
everything but the DUP. Displeasure was shown in
their creativeness, evidenced by the beautiful quilts
violent ways! At this time the BBC began to employ
they make, show lives of great balance. Much is
journalists rather than broadcasters and, joining as
done communally and, bearing in mind the talk we
a rookie reporter, was John Humphrys, with whom
heard at the Dorking meeting on loneliness, their
many of us still start our day. Abrupt and abrasive,
large families who enjoy eating together 3 times a
he challenges and doesn’t let prevaricators get
day has much that could be embraced far more
away with it. He will be missed when he retires
widely. The talk, dealing with Amish customs and
after 32 years on the job. This was an information
all aspects of their lives from clothing to schooling,
packed talk and I have only been able to give a
was packed with information and made for an
flavour of Mr Woollard’s interesting life in the
interesting afternoon Should you wish to join our
media. Our March speaker Carolyn Last was just as
group and enjoy our activities
interesting. Aren’t we lucky? Her talk, called
with us you are most welcome -
History on your Head, was enlivened by on-screen
in the Village Hall at 14.00 on
pictures and many items of headgear which she
the first Thursday of each month.
blithely modelled, flattering or not. We saw the
Nettie Cooper, Press Officer
34
JUNE 2019
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
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THIRTEEN SOCIETY
STILL RUNNING AFTER 75 YEARS
I
’d like to begin by thanking all those of you who continued to support the society this last season and also to welcome the many new visitors who came, some to join as members and some for an individual lecture. I hope you felt welcomed and enjoyed what we had to offer and that you will come again next season.. Our season is short with just six lectures between October and March, an idea that began in Kingswood 75 years ago, immediately after the last World War. Members of the Home Guard were used to holding frequent meetings and decided to continue on a more social basis, hence the Thirteen Society, named after the
36
JUNE 2019
thirteenth platoon. We are currently looking at marking our 75th anniversary next summer with some form of celebration. The 2019/20 programme is now complete and further details will be published in the next edition of Village Voice. Meanwhile enjoy all that summer brings and I hope to see you on October 14th in the Village Hall for the first lecture. Further details about Thirteen Society are available from Adele Hawkins (tel 355653) our Membership Secretary. Frances Rosbotham, Programme Secretary
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
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INSPIRED VILLAGES GROUP
AN INSPIRED IDEA FOR KINGSWOOD? Ever since news broke of Legal & General vacating their large office complex in Kingswood, village residents have been wondering what the future of the site would be. In this article the company which intends to apply for planning permission to develop the site into a retirement village sets out its vision. The KRA and KVCA have established a joint working group to monitor this important project and to try to ensure that, if it goes ahead, it is to the benefit of existing Kingswood residents, groups and businesses as well as the future residents of the intended retirement community. Here is what Inspired Villages CEO Jamie Bunce has to say.
A
t Inspired Villages Group, we are excited to be exploring the opportunity to deliver a retirement community on the site of the former Legal & General head office, located in Kingswood. We are an operator and developer of later living accommodation, specialising in creating unique communities which encourage social, physical and mental activation for our residents. Our residents can really celebrate the independence of later life with the benefit of flexible care arrangements, if and when required. As an operator of
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JUNE 2019
our villages, we make long-term commitments to the areas that we develop. We endeavour to become an active part of the local area, working with village groups and businesses to provide facilities that are open to the wider community. As most Kingswood residents will remember, Kingswood House, the former Legal & General site on St Monica’s Road, has been vacant since Summer 2018. Kingswood House had proved not to be efficient or cost effective as an office building by modern standards. Having explored a wide range of
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
INSPIRED VILLAGES GROUP
options, Legal & General invited Inspired Villages, a company that already successfully operates six retirement villages across the country, to deliver a bright future for the iconic building that forms an integral part of the wider Kingswood community. Inspired Villages, in proud partnership with Legal & General, specialise in creating safe, secure and social village environments where wellbeing is paramount. We hope that the proposed Inspired Villages community in Kingswood would provide local residents with more optionality. For those who are planning for retirement within their existing community, an Inspired village will offer a quality, independent living environment. Establishing a strong relationship with the wider community is integral to Inspired’s success. The local community are our neighbours and we want to interact as much as possible. In our villages, the facilities include clubs, cafes, restaurants and a fitness centre, all open for the wider community. We provide the investment, support and training for our future members of staff, and base all our services on sources that are local to each village: everything from window cleaning to local produce, meat, fish and vegetables. This early consultation process, where we welcome feedback, is a great opportunity to hear from the Kingswood community. We have already had a chance to meet with our immediate future neighbours and presented at the Kingswood Residents’ Association AGM on 26th March 2019, which has helped us immensely with preparation for the public consultation events and to continue to develop our
plans in line with local needs. We will continue our engagement with local people, Councillors, the Kingswood Residents’ Association, the Kingswood Village Community Association and other parties before and after we submit the planning application, and, if we are successful, during the construction process and when we open the doors for our new residents and the Kingswood community. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0800 038 5850 or via email info@inspiredkingswood.co.uk. We look forward to continuing our journey with you. Jamie Bunce CEO, Inspired Villages
To advertise call 01737 222307 KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE
JUNE 2019
39
LOCAL BUSINESS
HOW KINGSWOOD WINES BEGAN In this article Kuda Madzivanyika, the proprietor of the recently opened Kingswood Wines in Waterhouse Lane, tells us about the transition from Hartleys and what sort of wine shop he wants Kingswood Wines to be.
I
am grateful for the opportunity to write this article and to share a bit about the background to the shop and my hopes for what it will become. I used to work for Hartleys as a selfemployed HGV delivery driver and would come to deliver to their Surrey shops almost on a weekly basis for a number of years. However, as with many other companies and chains recently, Hartleys got into financial difficulty last year and so started selling some of their shops. Based on what I knew from my deliveries to the shops, I felt that I could run one of them more effectively. I was offered the opportunity to take over one of the three shops, Tadworth, Banstead or Kingswood. For me, it had to be Kingswood. It is a place I had always admired and, although it wasn’t always easy to park a big lorry each time I came, the courtesy that was always extended to me made me fall in love with not just the village but with the people of the village. It was be a place where I felt I would not just run a business but where I could become a part of a community. That sense of belonging is important to me. So, on the 26th of November 2018 the transition from Hartleys to Kingswood Wines began. However, this was not as smooth as one would hope it would be. Hartleys went into administration and, because this happened within the same period, the liquidators came and shut the shop as they said they believed it was still Hartleys, despite all the paperwork
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JUNE 2019
proving otherwise. It is a matter that is now in court and is on-going. Our judicial system is not the fastest in dealing with cases and I could not wait until it was all resolved to reopen. With the great help of the landlord we managed to restart the process and the shop reopened as Kingswood Wines on the 6th of February. Those of you who have been into Kingswood Wines since the reopening would have noticed some differences over the past few weeks. It’s an on-going process and we have a great manager in
KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE To advertise call 01737 222307
LOCAL BUSINESS
Theresa who is the heartbeat of the shop. So what has changed? Not a lot in terms of the structure and layout of the shop, but a few things, I hope, in the way the shop operates. Theresa and I really want Kingswood Wines to be a shop for the people of Kingswood – for you. So what we stock and sell will be tailored to what the community likes and wants. If there is anything that we don't stock that you would like us to, we will make every effort to get it in. For those of you who are planning weddings, garden parties, BBQs, or any other occasion that will require a larger order of drinks (alcoholic and non alcoholic), we are here to help on a sale or return basis. So whatever you don't use and don't want to keep for next time, we will take it back. We also deliver bulk orders and offer free glass hire, on a minimum spend. As we deal
with a number of suppliers we do try to keep our prices quite competitive. We also intend to offer some interesting wine tasting evenings, to give you an opportunity to try something a bit different. We really want Kingswood Wines to become your shop. Its existence and survival relies on the support of local people, so please do come in to see what we have to offer and to speak to us about anything you feel we maybe able to help with. We are on Facebook www.facebook.com/ kingswoodwine and on Instagram www.instagram.com/kingswoodwines Do look out for our offers and wine tasting evenings. Theresa and I look forward to seeing you in Kingswood Wines very soon. Kuda Madzivanyika
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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
To advertise call 01737 222307 KINGSWOOD VILLAGE VOICE
JUNE 2019
41
SARAH’S GARDEN JOTTINGS
FOCUS ON TREES
Enkianthus campanulatus 'Red Bells'.
Sorbus aucuparia.
Maintenance of trees and shrubs s I sit down to write this article, I think that every tree surgeon in Surrey must be out cutting back trees in our woodlands and gardens. Let’s hope that they all know what they are doing, and we won’t have to suffer from looking at more ugly trees which have been pruned incorrectly. As I drive around Banstead and Reigate there are dreadful examples of elegant conifers with their tops cut right off, exposing bare trunks and losing their natural shape – I have even seen a “Monkey Puzzle” treated in this way. Also, you can see graceful silver birches with their branches lopped off and weeping willows with no weeping branches left! All have one thing in common – they are a big tree in the wrong place and rather than cut them down completely they are reduced in size so that light is restored to properties. Similarly, tall hedges are chopped off rather than being pruned back at the base which would promote lower growth to improve hedge thickness. If you have large trees and shrubs, even
those with a tree protection order, make sure they are pruned to promote their natural shape and encourage flowers and fruit – most deciduous trees are best with a loose “goblet “ shape to encourage air circulation and the subsequent habitat for insects and birds . Shrubs with ‘leggy’ trunks can usually be pruned back to 20 cm and will come back next year as a bushy and floriferous plant with soft new stems. I have recently been to some lectures on habitat diversity and wildlife and interestingly, one of the best habitats for wildlife is a well planted garden with flowering trees, green hedges, a year long supply of simple flowers and a lawn with at least some unmown areas of grass. The worst examples have large concreted areas, a weed free lawn, only evergreen trees and boundary fences. An area of complete “wilderness” - impenetrable with self-sown trees, brambles and bracken is also not particularly good for wildlife. So, if you have overgrown huge trees which you can get rid of – why don’t you take the plunge and remove them, to
A
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SARAH’S GARDEN JOTTINGS
Acer japonicum 'Aureum'.
Cornus controversa Variegata.
replace with some smaller, elegant and wildlife friendly trees. Look at information about their final height (usually after 10 years), what soil they require and what conditions they need to thrive – sunny aspect, damp soil, frost free etc. Don’t be tempted to buy a big tree because you want to hide a view, instead plant a lovely, smaller tree nearer to you which will draw your eye from the view. Start planning now so you can plant your new trees in October and look forward to increasing the interest in your garden.
Another interesting fact I have learned is that if you widely apply lawn weedkiller (“Weed & Feed’) to your lawn, you may be harming any trees which are growing in the lawn. This is particularly the case for trees such as birches or Prunus as the weedkiller can penetrate the roots of trees with superficial roots.
Some good trees for your garden Here are some good small trees for you to think about; • Sorbus aucuparia (Rowan) • Malus ‘Red sentinel (Crab apple) • Acer palmatum (Japanese maples) • Betula utilis ‘Moonbeam’ (silver birch) • Cornus kousa • Cornus controversa • Enkianthus campanulatus • Pieris japonica • Sorbus aria (whitebeam)
Garden visits for June and July If you are looking for a garden visit in June or July why not go to visit Loseley Park, near Guildford (GU3 1HS). This garden is open from Sunday to Thursday in June and July for the National Gardens Scheme. If you want to look at trees for your garden you can’t beat Wisley RHS Garden near Woking, (GU23 6QB), Wakehurst Place, the country site of Kew Gardens in Haywards Heath (RH17 6TN) and the Savill and Valley Gardens in Windsor Great Park (TW20 0UJ). Enjoy your garden! Sarah
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JUNE 2019
43
SARAH LOTT STORY
P I N C H I N G PA N T S A N D O T H E R FAT H E R H O O D FOIBLES
S
am was a loving but haphazard father. He adored his three children but lacked the mindreading expertise of his wife, Ruth. He also fell short of the required organizational, culinary and disciplinary skills. His own childhood had been very traditional. His mother did the day-today child rearing duties and his father was left with the fun bits and the discipline bits. He managed to combine the two remarkably well and Sam idolized him. He aspired to being a parent like his dad but 21st century expectations of fatherhood were very different and far more complicated than they used to be. Was his father ever asked to put parental settings on the computer and then broach the topic of ‘dangers of internet porn’ with his thirteen year old son? Did he ever have to paint his daughter’s fingernails with sparkly pink nail varnish and then sit patiently while she did the same to him? Did he then forget about it and turn up to an office meeting with glittery nails? Somehow, Sam thought not… Making packed lunches would certainly not have been part of his father’s job description and Sam was hopeless at it. There were always complaints on ‘Daddy’ days when biscuits were forgotten, sandwiches had the wrong fillings and carrots weren’t peeled
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properly. Washing machine duty was another challenging area. Sarah was grief-stricken when a black sock got into the wash with her white ‘Hello Kitty’ shorts and Daniel was distraught when his ‘Minecraft’ T shirt was shrunk in the tumble drier. Ruth seemed to take all this in her stride, managing to cook supper, test spellings and plait hair simultaneously. Sam was definitely a ‘one thing at a time man’. There were a few occasions where he rose to the top of the domestic tree and Sam basked in the glory of those moments. He was better at head lice control than his wife and took a macabre delight in scraping the corpses out of his children’s hair with the nit comb. He was also more proficient at maths homework and his knowledge of capital cities and Elizabethan history was second to none. He was equally superb at creating trampoline chaos and was even moderately skilled on a skateboard (until the notorious ‘hole in the road incident’ ended his brief skateboarding career). Like his father before him, Sam was at his best on special occasions. His dad had created wonderful memories for his children and Sam wanted to do the same. The day to day humdrum might be forgotten but special days would stay with them forever. Sam’s firework displays never disappointed and trips to the seaside were always celebrated with beach cricket, over ambitious sandcastles and a fish and chip supper. Christmas
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SARAH LOTT STORY
heralded the dusting down of his trusty Santa Claus outfit and the ritual game of bingo, with made up calls like “Mum’s fat bum, 21”, “Dad doesn’t snore – 34” and “Dan needs a poo – 22”. He always tried to bring a bit of sophisticated humour to the occasion, particularly if his mother-in-law was there. Sam prided himself on being true to his word, both at work and at home. If he promised something to the children, he tried his very hardest to make it happen. His father was like that and Sam always admired him for it. Unlike his father, however, he’d never smacked any of his children but he did once bury Daniel’s Xbox remote in the garden after he was discovered playing at three o’clock in the morning. One thing Sam’s father never had to tolerate was family confusion over
underwear. In his day, men’s pants were white, sensible and easily identified… In Sam’s world of modern fatherhood, he and his sons wore very similar black jersey trunks. In the blur of the morning rush and muddle of laundry, mistakes could occur. Sam loved most aspects of being a parent but one thing he found very difficult to endure was spending a working day at the office, squeezed into ‘Age 13’ pants… Sarah Lott Do you know anyone with a life story to tell? Please get in touch and I’ll help you capture those memories for future generations. Website: www.thememorybook.co.uk Telephone: 01372 373844 Email: sarah@thememorybook.co.uk Twitter: @thememorybook Facebook: The Memory Book
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JUNE 2019
45
KINGSWOOD LAWN TENNIS CLUB
IMPROVEMENTS
I
am delighted to report as we go to press that the work on the garden area by the Clubhouse looks like it is going to be
completed on time and within budget. This is largely down to the prodigious amount of time and effort that Nigel Catlow has put into this project. Members will recall the EGM that we held on 21 February 2019 in order to obtain their approval for the
teams in the summer leagues across men,
expenditure. The meeting was treated to a
women, mixed, open, vets, and juniors. The
marvellous and most professional
mens 1st team are in the Surrey Division 4
presentation by Nigel. A number of useful
playing against some of the best teams across
points were raised by members but overall
Surrey. Overall, an amazing position to be in.
there was enthusiastic support. Hopefully by
But, as I keep telling the team captains
the time this edition is published, members
although I don’t think I have convinced them,
will already have enjoyed many hot days
having fun is just as important as winning. By
and balmy evenings relaxing outside in this
and large, and only with rare exceptions, the
area. A very big thank-you is due to Nigel.
matches are played in a good competitive
And, at no cost to the Club other than materials, the whole of the inside of the
spirit. We have a full programme of social events.
Clubhouse has been redecorated in trendy
A first was the recent evening of live music
grey and black. Thanks to Gill Hyde and her
and dancing in the Clubhouse, coupled with
band of helpers, who completed the arduous
delicious pie and mash, with the world
work in three days flat, with no inconvenience
premiere (and hopefully not last performance)
to users of the Clubhouse.
of a band of talented middle-aged rockers
Club teams prospered in the winter leagues
which owed its existence to the persuasive
and are looking forward to further fun and
powers of our very own music impressario,
success in the summer leagues. 5 of the 7
Trevor Fannin. There was a noticeable intake
winter teams gained promotion in their
of breath from some sections of the audience
respective leagues. We have no less than 17
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C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 4 8
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KINGSWOOD LAWN TENNIS CLUB
vocalists took to the stage. Members were really getting into the swing of it on the dance floor as carriages arrived. We are looking forward to our inaugural Open Week running from 13 May, which has been heavily advertised in the locality. Anybody thinking of joining has been invited to various taster sessions during the week, to see what the Club has to offer. And, as this edition is published at the beginning of June, we will be eagerly preparing for our long-awaited Davis Cup Day on Saturday June 8th. Entry to this day is free and there will be a BBQ and other refreshments. Two former GB Davis Cup players will be playing at the Club, showing off their skills and playing with and coaching anybody who pays £12.50. Who needs Wimbledon when you can get to see and also experience the real thing on your door-step! This is very generous of the two
players, who charge nothing for their time: they just want to see the game promoted in the area, and to help the Club raise funds. This is the brain-child of Brian Jeffreys, so a big thank you to him too. If you are considering joining, please do come to our Davis Cup day on Saturday June 8th and see what the Club has to offer in terms of facilities and friendly faces, or contact kltcmembership@gmail.com. Valentin, the club coach, can be contacted on 07919 453206 or coaching@kingswoodltc.com. For more information, please go to our web-site at www.kingswoodltc.com, or visit us on facebook at www.facebook.com/ kingswoodlawntennisclub. Robin Hollington, Chairman
People are e talking about th heir Life Story Books... Here’s what Kay ye said about hers:
“I can’t speak too highlly of the care Sarrah toook in helping me to remeember long forg orgotten memoriess. My book now resides proudllly y on my cofffee table.” Commission a Personal Biography and it will be treasured for ge enerations.
Contact Sarah Lott on C 0 01372 373844 or 07957 598 8348 sarah s k @thememorybook.co.uk w www.thememorybook.co.uk
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JUNE 2019
47
F E AT U R E D C H A R I T Y
HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT INDEPENDENT AGE? Our featured charity for this edition isn’t one which is based locally, but it is one which is likely to be of interest to people living in Kingswood, either those who themselves are older, or those with older relatives. George McNamara, a Director of Independent Age, explains how they can help.
I
ndependent Age is an older people’s charity that offers regular contact, a strong campaigning voice and free, impartial advice on the issues that matter to older people: care and support, money and benefits, health and mobility. A charity founded over 150 years ago, we are independent so older people can be too. Tackling the growing problem of loneliness among older people underpins all our work. We offer face to face visits and telephone calls by volunteers for older people who are lonely. And, as part of our plans to significantly increase our reach and impact, we are investing in a major expansion of our frontline services and piloting additional services that reduce loneliness and increase wellbeing.
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We also have a strong focus on other issues that affect older people, such as the social care crisis and access to benefits and finance. One thing we’re currently campaigning for is free personal care for all older people who need it, either at home or in a care home. This would mean that help with things like washing, dressing and preparing meals would be free, and no-one would need to sell their home or spend all their savings to pay for care. Independent Age’s helpline provides free and confidential advice and information on a range of topics. Freephone 0800 319 6789 or email advice@independentage.org to arrange to speak to an adviser or to order one of our free advice guides. For more information, visit our website www.independent age.org George McNamara Director of Policy and Influencing
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CHARITY ACTION LIST Feeling charitable? Or just want to get involved
then, in the Auction of Promises, bid for some of
in some interesting local activities? Or both!
the 25 great bargains such as meals from local
Here’s what’s coming up in the next 3 months.
restaurants and pubs, health and beauty sessions,
Bob Gunn
trips to National Trust properties and sports
Congratulations to anyone from Kingswood
coaching. Plus, snap up a jar or two of Mary
who ran the London Marathon for charity. We
Heath’s Marvellous Marmalade!
would love to hear your story!
Tickets £15 from Mike Fox 01737 350452 or Mike.fox2@NTLWorld.com and Bob Gunn
y
y
g
Friday 31 May and again on
bob@gunn.org
Saturday 8 June 9.15am start (Likely finishing time ~ 5pm)
Sunday 7 July 12 noon –
The TWOAT 10 mile Walk
5pm at Gatton Park,
Dick Shelley and Adrienne Elliott will be leading
Reigate RH2 0TW
these popular figure-of-eight walks in our
Gatton Country Fair
delightful local countryside, starting and
A great day out for all the family: animals,
finishing at the village green in Brockham. The
country crafts and demonstrations, children’s
morning 5 mile walk goes up and along the
activities and a fun dog show. Gardens and
beautiful new Deepdene Trail. After coffee at
grounds open. Cost: adults £7 children free.
Dorking Golf Club we return to Brockham for
Gatton Park is also open to visitors on Sunday 2
lunch at one of the pubs or a picnic on the
July and Sunday 4 August from 1 – 5pm. The bird
green. The afternoon 5 mile walk sets off at 2pm
hide is open, there are free guided tours,
and goes along the River Mole to Betchworth,
activities for children and plant sale. Entrance is
then north to the lime kilns and quarries along
via Gatton Hall and refreshments are available to
the Pilgrims Way, returning to Brockham by 5pm.
purchase. Cost: adults £5 children free.
The walk is suitable for anyone in reasonable trim (16 to 70 plus!). There is a £10 entry charge. But what about getting your family and friends to sponsor you as well? If you would like to take
Sunday 11 August 2pm to 5.30pm
part, contact Dick on 01737 817930 or
41 Shelvers Way, Tadworth KT20 5QJ
dickshelley@ntlworld.com
Keith Lewis’ Open Garden Part of the National Garden Scheme and always
Saturday 29 June 7.15pm
worth seeing. Entry £5. Afternoon Tea, Coffee &
at St John’s Hall,
Cakes provided by TWOAT to help fund their overseas aid projects.
Tadworth, KT20 5AB (opp station)
gains such as ns trips to
TWOAT Sing-along, Meal and Auction of
If there is a local charity event in the period
Promises
September, October, November, not otherwise
Three great events combined in one special
covered in Village Voice, which you would like
evening. Join the mellifluous voices of the St
to bring to the attention of our readers, please
Cecilia Chorus in singing songs we all know and
send brief information to Bob Gunn
love. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal. And
bob@gunn.org before the next copy date.
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JUNE 2019
49
ADVERTISEMENT INDEX A K Gulati
Page 50
Helping Hands
Page 26
Roxley Models
Page
Built Specialists
Page 37
Inspired Villages
Page 5
24SAS Roofing
Page 23
Burge and Gunson
Page 51
JP Electrical
Page 45
Saunders Estate Ag’ts Page 11
Capel Tree Surgeons Page 4
Kennedys
Page 25
Stoneman Funeral S’s Page 41
Dave Ford Tree Care
Page 32
Kingswood Court
Page 23
Stretch Tent
Page 17
David Legg
Page 26
Kingswood Wines
Page 31
Sutton High School
Page 33
Drift Bridge VW
Page 2
LT Electrical
Page 21
Taurus Waste
Page 36
Fine & Country
Page 52
Memory Book
Page 47
Total Security SystemsPage 19
George Dyankov
Page 7
Palmerston
Page 22
Hallmark Care Homes Page 29
Pro Paint Refinishing Page 35
THE KINGSWOOD
VILLAGE VOICE
Please contact Richard Milbourn, Editor, on 01737 222307 or email richard.milbourn@carnah.co.uk
Editorial & Advertisement Next Deadline: 31st July
64 Sandlands Road, Walton on the Hill, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7HZ
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IT’S A F%'8
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