Worcester park life february 14

Worcester Park Life

KT4’s ONLY FREE independent community magazine and business guide Feb 14 issue 68

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Greetings!

Yes, readers. Very special occasion time – get the cake and balloons out as it’s the 68th edition of your favourite community magazine – Worcester Park Life, but also the 100th of its sister publication Malden’s Village Voice.

Hoorah!!!

It has been wonderful to read the many messages that I’ve received over the past couple of weeks. Many from advertisers who appear in both titles. Publishing not one but two magazines for so long, plus all the associated community ‘opportunities’ that have come my way as a result, was been nothing short of unimaginable when I took over the business in March 07. I’d taken voluntary redundancy from Barclays (Stockbrokers) when I was pregnant with Rebecca, now aged 10, and then spent a few years at home with two small girls, wondering – and discussing with so many other mums what on earth was - ‘next’?

Mandy selling her business came up and suddenly, after such a long time… I knew what I wanted to do!

Jenny 4

Anyway, without all of our lovely advertisers, there wouldn’t be any magazines. So, when you’re contacting them please remember to tell them where you got their number.

Jenny Jenny Stuart, Editor & publisher

P.S. Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when replying to adverts and get in touch by 17th February if you’d like your business, Club or event to feature in the March edition(s).

Next copy deadline: 17th February jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk Published by Malden Media Limited 36 Rosebery Avenue, KT3 4JS 020 8336 2915

Malden’s KT3’s ONLY FREE independe community maga nt zine and business guide FEB 14 Issue 100

www.wplife.co.uk We also publish Malden’s Village Voice WWW.NMVV

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worcester park history A lady’s kindly advice in Washington Road

by David Rymill

She had moved here from The Oaks, 27 The Avenue (her family’s large villa on the site now occupied by Badgers Court) “for the sole purpose of living in the midst of the people to whom she was to devote the rest of her life”, as R A Marter recalled in 1957 for an

T his month we take a walk down Washington Road. The upper part of this road was laid out in the 1860s by the British Land Company, on a field known as The Eight Acres. By 1894 there were about 20 households here, increasing to around 50 in 1901.

By this time Miss Rose or Rosa Emma Smith had settled in Washington Road at Oak Villa or Oak Cottage, the large house at no. 22. article in The Gazette, the newsletter of the Stoneleigh Park and Cuddington Residents’ Association. Mr Marter remembered her as “a little lady, dressed in grey, visiting the sick and needy – countless callers at her home – surrounded by scores of children at Sunday School. It was the children who received her special attention, and she maintained stocks of comfort for distribution to all in need, irrespective of creed. She superintended the Sunday School, but among the children she had no favourites. A request to take tea with her was not always a reward for good conduct – boys especially were invited when they had been guilty of some misbehaviour, and always left feeling better for the kindly advice they received.”

Hundreds of children from Sunday Schools in London were invited, over the years, for a fortnight’s country holiday “in the lanes and fields” around Worcester Park, while for local children she arranged outings to “the Zoo, Hampton Court and Nonsuch Park, then a private residence. The greatest thrill of our young lives was the Annual Treat Miss Smith arranged to Worthing.

At an early hour there would be great activity at Worcester Park Station, and when we reached Worthing some of us saw the sea for the first time.”

Life for some of her neighbours was hard: Joseph Palmer recalls “Mother used to take washing down to the Miss Durrants, two tall women; when you opened the front door, steam came out of the house – they To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

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used to spend all their day washing.” Until about 1938 the last house on the left was an old cottage, no. 139, the home of Mr and Mrs Eamer. As her grand-daughter Joan Blackmore recalls, Mrs Eamer sold sweets in a back room of the cottage; the customers included a lady who brought her pet monkey: “The jars were all along the shelf, and he used to pick out what sweets he wanted, and the lady would buy him a bag, and they’d go off quite happy.” She also made her own ice-cream in a large churn, probably just as much as she could sell each day.

In about 1939 the Eamers moved to a new house, next door at 141, and she continued to sell sweets, cigarettes, reels of cotton and so on: “She had a counter just inside the hall, with a till, and a lot of the stuff was stored in the front room. The children used to come and buy their pennyworth of sweets - or a ha’penny they used to spend. A lot of the sweets were little squares wrapped in paper, and they’d get three for a penny. The grown-ups, when they came for their cigarettes, if they couldn’t afford a packet of ten or twenty, she’d split a packet, and sell them one or two, or perhaps five – mind you, they’d come back the next day for the other five.”

The wholesaler “used to come round with a big van with all the sweets inside, and she used to climb in and choose what she wanted. Everybody used to

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crowd round, to try and tell her what to buy.” Sweets continued to be rationed until February 1953: “I used to have to help her count the coupons, and it was my job once a month to take them to Sutton.”

Mrs Blackmore recalls that her grandmother made an iced cake for a VE-Day party in this street: eggs were not a problem, as she had her own chickens; “with rationing, you were only allowed 2 oz of butter so she had to save it up, and people helped her out with sugar and stuff.”

Our illustration this month is a postcard showing the view down Washington Road, postmarked in 1905.

The first few houses nearest Central Road were later removed to make way for the shops, but most of the further houses shown are still there today. The postcard was sent by Flo Abbotts (of no. 7) who wrote ‘That is our Maggie sitting on the kerbstone’ (you may be able to see a tiny white figure at the side of the road). The trees opposite ‘Maggie’ mask the large house where Rosa Smith lived. Is it fanciful to wonder if Miss Smith is seated in the horse-drawn trap outside?

Do any WPL readers have a better photograph of her?

David Rymill David.Rymill1993@alumni.aber.ac.uk (020) 8330 6563

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ruth jemmett writes All you need is love

In This Month Of Romance, Ruth Jemmett Asks: Are Partnerships Better If They Are Born Of Love - Or If They Are Arranged?

When Lennon and McCartney composed “All You Need Is Love” way back in 1967 they neatly summed up the human condition. We are all programmed to pair up with a special somebody, without whom we feel incomplete.

Sometimes we are lucky enough to find that person at our first attempt at romance, but most women usually have to wade their way through a mountain of frogs before they find their Prince Charming. Nature can be very cruel by confusing us with diversions such as good looks and sexual chemistry, often blurring the truth about what really makes a good match.

When we are young, and kissing our latest beau, we are often caught up in the magic of the moment, and almost totally distracted by things like his flashing teeth or gorgeous hair. As we age, and it dawns on us that even the most dishy Adonis might become bald and guppy, human qualities become much more important to us. Good looks play their part in initial attraction of course, but they don’t have a big part to play when you are married and need your mate to do his fair share of household chores!

When I was young I waded my way through my share of frogs (nine to be precise), and gradually learnt that I felt more at ease with those I shared a similar education or social life with. This is something that Eastern cultures have been aware of for a very long time. The subject of arranged marriages can be a very contentious one, but at the heart of such an idea is the wish that a man and woman can be compatible on every level, and the hope that the couple in question will grow to truly love one another in a grown up way.

As the world becomes more and more accustomed to global travel, and we learn about the lifestyles of our immigrant population, we have become quite familiar with the idea of arranged marriages - which is also a tradition that shows little sign of abating in the Indian sub-continent.

We in the western part of the world, where personal choice in such matters is paramount to us, might balk at the idea of someone telling us how to conduct the most private parts of our lives, but with approximately one in two British marriages ending in divorce, is

our system any better? Of course feeling that you are ‘in love’ is the most intoxicating feeling in the world, but rampant hormones can often make you blind to your beloved’s shortcomings. A monosyllabic handsome brute who sweeps you up in his arms might make your heart beat faster, but ten years down the line when you want to have a deep conversation with him about serious matters, what good are is big biceps then? Far better that you start off as good friends who can talk to each other and laugh about life together, than you become increasingly irked by a partner who has nothing to share with you once the veneer of basic attractiveness has worn a little thin!

Valentine’s Day is something all true romantics look forward to. The modern custom of lovers exchanging cards probably has its roots in the pagan festival of Lupercalia, a fertility rite, celebrated in February in ancient Rome. Although centuries later Shakespeare waxed lyrical about romantic pairings in his plays, it is clear to see that our culture at that time wasn’t that different to eastern ones. Just think of the play Romeo and Juliet …. Indeed, throughout Europe, until relatively recently, people of all social classes

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would marry for many reasons other than what we now perceive as love. The ‘lower orders’ of society would often marry off their daughters to, say, a successful landowner or trader. In centuries past, when women had the social and legal standing of chattels, such a practice was commonplace. Royalty, and the aristocracy in general, have always been known for trying to make ‘a good match’ for their daughters - and not always having happy outcomes - as recent history has shown us ……

Queen Victoria famously had a very long and successful marriage to Prince Albert, but the pages of our history books are also littered with sad tales of unwanted spouses and forced nuptials that had been undertaken to cement treaties between countries, or to prevent wars. It is pretty evident that Henry VIII had trouble in finding the true love of his life, who would not only be accepted by the royal court, but also by the citizens of England. What a shame that there wasn’t a company he could have approached at that time called ‘Royal Dates R Us’ !!!

The western ideal seems to be overwhelmingly in favour of partnerships created by free choice and romantic love. Over the last hundred years or so the media have inundated us with romantic films and slushy novels, that have reinforced our need to find true romance. If we can achieve that dream it is wonderful, but how many young women raised on the notion of a smouldering Mr Darcy, or the passionate words of

Christian Grey, are a little disappointed when their Kevin who serves on the meat counter of the local supermarket doesn’t quite offer quite the same chat-up line?!

Even though marriage isn’t as fashionable as it once was, with traditional marriages falling by a third since 1981, one thing is sure. We all want to love and be loved. It is the spur that makes most of us get out of bed in the morning. It is the feeling that mothers have for their babies. It is what teenagers feel for their crushes. For a variety of reasons some people never experience that tingling magic in their whole lives, whilst others are obsessed by their quest for it, moving restlessly from partner to partner.

One thing is clear: All you need is love. It is what makes life worth living; and on St. Valentine’s Day surely the hardiest cynic will have a tiny part of their stony heart that wonders if - just if - a sloppy card will land on their doormat on 14th….

Here’s hoping that all you romantics in Worcester Park feel Cupid’s arrow land on you, and that the love of your life whispers special words to you - such as “I’ve just made you a cup of tea” or “I’ve warmed your side of the bed”. O.K. - he might not be Colin Firth, but remember that love comes in all sorts of guises, and that actions speak a lot louder than words!

Ruth Jemmett is a Member of The Society of Authors

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Say it with Flowers Say It With Flowers

1. Famous for its slogan “say it with flowers”, what is the world’s largest flower delivery network?

2. Which literary hero took his nickname from the drawing of a small red flower he used to sign his messages?

3. What name is given to the pollen-producing reproductive organ of a flower?

4. Better known as a singer, who wrote the 2003 best-selling children’s book The English Roses?

5. In the film Bambi, what type of animal is Flower?

6. What spice is obtained from the crocus?

7. Mrs Cobbitt was the flower seller on which children’s TV show?

8. In 2001, the Flower Pot Men were revived in a stop-motion animation show for Children’s BBC called Bill And Ben, but what type of flower was Weed replaced with?

9. Also the name of a brand of margarine, who was the Roman goddess of flowers?

10. According to legend, which flowering plant was the last to be named by God and had to remind God that it needed a name?

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1. Interflora 2. The Scarlet Pimpernel 3.t he stamen 4. Madonna 5. A skunk 6. Saffron 7. Trumpton 8. A sunflower 9. Flora 10. The forget-me-not

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view from the City

The echoes of History in the Economy

by Justin Urquhart Stewart This year will inevitably be peppered with references to the anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War. Some will be relevant, some maudlin and lachrymose, with others casting dire warnings of history repeating itself.

I personally don’t fall into that particular school of thought, thinking rather that history provides resonances and echoes of similarity as opposed to replays of events.

I would rather take you to another series of events a century ago which again provide us with echoes today. Before he turned into an ego maniac, the genius farming engineer that was Henry Ford was not just

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an astonishing engineer and designer, but both a ruthless and dynamic businessman. He was no 19th Century Victorian philanthropist, but rather a devout capitalist seeking to make even greater returns.

Thus in January 1914, to the astonishment of his competitors, he made the radical decision to change policies for his employees. He introduced not just a minimum wage but a form of profit sharing as well. At a level of $5 per day this was seen as a huge change in pay and attitude.

Additionally he introduced health and education schemes and was especially keen to ensure that English was being learnt as a primary language by what was for the most part a first generation immigrant workforce.

So why this burst of generosity from this arch capitalist? Actually the answer was supremely logical at various levels. Ford had broken down car construction into its constituent parts and hence we saw the birth of the production line. Skilled engineers were not needed - just drones capable of completing continuous and repetitive tasks. Such efficiency was vital when you were driving for the production of 1,000 cars a day. The trouble with such roles though was that, for many, such a process could not be sustained and thus the employee

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turnover was extraordinarily high. Thus by attracting the right people, making sure they were all of a certain standard (in language as well as health) his turnover of staff fell, his costs of recruitment replacement and training fell, production went up and profits rose. Given that employee numbers were rising to near 45,000, this was having a significant impact. Ford was the place to work even if the job was mind numbingly dull. He also had a broader view - by people earning more, there was a greater chance that more people would be buying the must have product of the moment - the Model T Ford.

Sadly for Ford this seems to have been his peak of business logic, as although he continued to be successful and became one of the world’s wealthiest men, he increasingly became the corporate megalomaniac worthy of any Dallas soap, and even voiced support for the fascist ideals of Mr A Hitler.

So what are the echoes from this that we can hear today resonating in the economy? The question of the minimum wage has long been argued by the right as being an anti-competitive ruling of an interfering state.

The left argues for the need to create a living wage which, in a consumer society, will mean that there is more money being spent - especially at the weaker end of society where expenditure is often 100% and saving nil.

We have been living through a period where pay has local carethe gap not kept up with the cost ofExpert living, although has certainly been narrowing. Now you could argue that many were overpaid in the good days and that an adjustment was inevitable, but more importantly society needed to be adjusted towards the need for longer term saving and not drawn towards toxic shorter term debt.

The cancer of Pay Day Loan companies sadly has already spread too wide amongst the financially desperate and naive.

This question though is not just about pay levels, but rather ensuring that over time the people have a greater understanding of what financially they are going to have to face and what they can do about it.

There of course is no wand or spell to solve the issue but rather longer term actions for saving. Low cost pensions and ISAs are quite easily achieved these days but with

Andy Reeve

understandable cynicism about a disreputable financial services industry in key areas, the ability to convince people is going to be difficult. My view as a benevolent dictator would be to make such saving compulsory as we have seen in Australia, where this has produced a society with far greater confidence in its personal finances and thus in its future.

Justin Justin Urquhart Stewart is one of the most recognisable and trusted market commentators on television, radio and in the press. Originally trained as a lawyer he has observed the retail market industry for 20 years whilst at Barclays Stockbrokers and developed a unique understanding of the market’s roles and benefits for the private investor

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beauty

Professional Beauty Secrets: Revealed

By Helen Taylor

Ever wondered how models and actresses manage to look so gorgeous all the time? Well, here’s the lowdown on those all important tips and tricks that are used by professionals all over the world.

Clever Contouring Kim Kardashian is known for her flawless make-up look which perfectly accentuates her features and draws attention to her razor-sharp cheekbones.

Skilled in the art of contouring, her make-up artist cleverly uses cosmetics to emphasis particular parts of her face, which creates her striking trademark look.

Here’s how you can get cheekbones which rival Kim’s: Firstly you’ll need to prime your skin. Choose the primer that’s right for you: green toned versions neutralise redness in the skin and mattifying primers eradicate shine. Smooth the product over your entire face, after applying a light moisturiser.

Next, select two foundations in two different shades; the first should be one shade lighter than your natural skin tone and the other one shade darker.

Apply the lighter foundation to the centre of your forehead, bring it down onto the middle of your nose, in a straight line (this will make your nose appear straighter and slimmer), apply under your eyes and to the tops of your cheekbones, then lastly to the centre of your chin.

Sweep the darker shade under your cheekbones, along the outer sides of your nose, either side of the lighter colour, and on your temples and jaw line. Blend down onto your neck so that you don’t end up with a visible foundation line.

Use a light-reflecting - not a glittery or overly shimmery - highlighter to make certain areas of your face really stand out. Apply the product under the arch of your eyebrows, along the tops of your cheekbones, down the centre of your nose and on your cupid’s bow.

To finish, and to bring the entire look together, dust translucent powder over your entire face and add a touch of colour to the apples of your cheeks using a pink blusher.

Define your cupid’s bow by drawing a ‘V’ in the centre curve of your top lip, bring the line round and down using soft feathery strokes. Line the curve of the bottom lip with the same light movements, and soften by lightly blending with your finger.

Choose a striking shade of red lipstick and carefully apply the colour within the line using a lip brush.

Finally add a touch of shimmery clear lipgloss to the centre of your lips to add instant fullness.

Lovely Lashes Long, luscious eyelashes are a must for anyone in the spotlight. Most celebrities will be sporting high quality lash extensions, but you can still achieve an impressive look with just a few basic tools.

Eyelash curlers are a must for every woman – they serve to immediately open-up eyes and add shape to lashes.

Liquid liner is essential too; not only does it add definition, but it helps to create the look of a thick lash line, so always apply to your upper lashes before your mascara.

Choose a quality mascara to lengthen and colour your lashes. Wipe the applicator before use and work the brush through your lashes using a quick side to side motion, ensuring that every area is covered.

Perfect Pout Here’s how to achieve a red carpet pout.

Grab a neutral-coloured lip liner and begin lining just outside the coloured part of your lips to create a full effect.

20

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To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

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22

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e ducation How much do you know about Apprenticeships?

Apprenticeship Week is being held from March 3 to 7 this year, but how much do you know about what apprenticeships are?

An apprenticeship enables anyone aged 16 or over to learn a profession by spending part of the week in college learning the skills they need and the rest in employment, getting paid to put their new knowledge to use. At Nescot we offer apprenticeships in all kinds of subjects – from Team Leading, Animal Studies and Childcare to Business Administration and IT – so our students work towards all kinds of different careers.

Doing an apprenticeship means you can earn money by doing a real job, while learning the skills you need.

You can learn at your own pace with support from both the college and your employer, and you’ll finish your qualification with great experience. Nescot is the only college in Surrey to have a REED NCFE Centre on campus, so if you’re interested in becoming an apprentice but don’t have a job, Nescot can help.

Taking on an apprentice is cost effective for your business, boosting productivity and improving your organisation’s skills base and reputation. You’ll get full support from Nescot, and all the training and assessment is arranged and delivered by the college.

And don’t forget, apprenticeships for 16 to 18-yearolds are fully funded.

If you’re interested in becoming an apprentice, or finding out more about how an apprentice could boost your business, call the college on 020 8394 8400, email apprenticeships@nescot.ac.uk ,visit the website www.nescot.ac.uk

To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

23

recipe Sausages and puy lentils

If you fancy a change from the usual sausage and mash why not go Continental? Tasty Toulouse sausages wrapped in pancetta and served on a bed of flavoursome puy lentils make the perfect mid-week meal.

Serves 4 Ready in 40 minutes 225g puy lentils 225g shallots, peeled and halved 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp brown sugar 150ml vegetable stock 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 8 Toulouse or chunky pork sausages 8 rashers pancetta or smoked streaky bacon, stretched with the back of a knife 2 tsp clear honey 3 tbsp chopped fresh flat leaf parsley

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1 Place the lentils in a pan and cover with water. Bring to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

2 Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a deep frying pan and fry the shallots for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just starting to soften. Sprinkle over the brown sugar and cook for a further 8-10 minutes until the shallots are golden and caramelised.

3 Drain the lentils and add to the frying pan with the stock, vinegar and 2 tsp of the mustard. Simmer for about 15 minutes until the lentils are just tender. Stir occasionally and add a little more stock, if necessary.

4 While the lentils are cooking, wrap each sausage with a pancetta rasher. Cook under a medium-hot grill for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently until the sausages are almost cooked through. Mix together the rest of the mustard with the honey and brush over the sausages.

Cook for a further 3-4 minutes until the pancetta is crisp and browned.

5 Stir half the parsley into the lentils and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve the lentils and sausages on warmed plates garnished with the remaining parsley.

TIP

Try your local butcher or deli or visit a farmers’ market to find the best quality Continental-style sausages.

If you can’t find Toulouse sausages, Lincolnshire, Cumberland or pork and leek varieties will work just as well.

Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers

An independent preparatory Nursery An independentpreparatory preparatory An independent school for boys and girls schoolfor for boys and andgirls girls school Taster aged 3boys to 11 years. aged3 3toto11 11 years. years. aged Session

“The pupils’ overall success is a result of highly teaching,isan “The pupils’effective overall success a outstanding result ult and wide extra-curricular experience, as well as the of curriculum highly effective teaching, an outstanding tan Independent Schools Inspectorate report pupils’ own excellent attitudes to learning.” curriculum and wide extra-curricular experience, as well as the r e pupils’ own excellent attitudes to learning.” Independent Schools Inspectorate report arn

Come along with your “The pupils’ overall family to our Nursery at success is a result of highly The Study School on the morning of Tel: 020 8942 0754 effective teaching, an outstanding Email: info@thestudyschool.co.uk Website: www.thestudyschool.co.uk March from 9:30am - 11am, to Tel: 0201st,8942 0754 Email: www.thestudyschool.co.uk estu curriculum 5 7info@thestudyschool.co.uk T h e t f o ra d R taster o a d , and N eWebsite: w Msession. a wide l d e n K T 3 extra-curricular 5 D You P sample can meet 5our 7experience, T h eteachers t f oT r d R o a d , N eand w M awell l discover d e n K Tas 3 5 D the P what as pupils’ we3 can independent preparatory youngattitudes son or daughter. chool offer for boysyour and girls own excellent to learning.”

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pupils’ overall success is a result ghly effective teaching, an outstanding culum and wide extra-curricular experience, as well as the Email: info@thestudyschool.co.uk s’ own excellent attitudes to learning.” Independent Schools Inspectorate report

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To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

25

Mascot Telecare is provided by the London Borough of Merton and helps to provide safety, security and well-being, enabling people to live independently

in their own homes. The service – available 24 hours a day, every day of the year – uses simple technology linked to our response centre based in Morden’s Civic Centre.

Our friendly team are trained to respond quickly and appropriately to calls for

help when a pendant button is pressed. The alarm works as a two-way radio and they are able to hear you from anywhere in your house. In an emergency they will contact the emergency services and remain in contact with you until

they are satisfied you are safe and well. We also offer a response service for those within 5 miles of the Civic Centre.

The service is available from as little as £4.98 per week which includes installation, monitoring and equipment.

For more information or to arrange for a leaflet and price list to be sent to you, please call 020 8274 5940

www.mascot-telecare.org.uk Email: mascot@merton.gov.uk

26

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organisations Cuddington (Warspite) Sea Scout Group

At the Scout Headquarters a 6 year old Beaver Scout proudly shows off her new badges to her parents.

The fun and friendships that she has developed over the first 6 months of her time in the group have led to this being a highlight of the week. She has experienced her first night away without family. She can very honestly say that she is doing her best.

On the River Thames, a group of Scouts on an overnight expedition impress a lock keeper by using the skills that they have learnt over the years to safely bring their rowing boats loaded with equipment through a river lock.

On a lake in North Wales, Explorer Scouts demonstrate their ability to sail small dinghies on a Welsh Mountain Lake.

They have camped, visited, cooked, kayaked but now they are enjoying themselves on the water.

In a field, somewhere in Surrey, Cub Scouts tuck into a full roast beef dinner. This will be one of three roast dinners over their week long Summer Camp. They have been swimming today and will also canoe, kayak, light fires, hike, play table tennis and much more during the week. But for the moment, they are chatting and eating with friends and enjoying camping.

In the dawn, on the Thames, near Henley, two 20 foot long gigs glide through the water. Rowed by members of the group, they are just one leg of a 50 mile odyssey involving over 100 rowers from under 13 to over 70 years old. They enjoy seeing the sunrise on

the river with friends; but are also there to honour the memory of a recently passed volunteer who contributed much. By the end of the day, the 18 teams will have done this; completing the challenge & fundraising to continue these opportunities, and to support the work of the Princess Alice Hospice.

Near Richmond, 4 teams of under 18s and an adult team complete the Great River Race - a 21 mile long rowing marathon and the largest traditional rowing race in Europe.

They have all rowed from Docklands; under Tower Bridge, past Parliament and through Putney. They are exhausted but very proud of their achievement.

This is just a selection from a year with 1st Cuddington (Warspite) Sea Scouts; who are both one of Worcester Park’s best kept secrets and one of the UK’s leading Sea Scout Group. To quote the Royal Navy: “a very lively, outgoing and well-respected Sea Scout Group” or perhaps a parent “While Warspite teaches important skills - you never lose the focus on having fun too” To find out more about us, and how you or your children could join the adventure, find us on the web at www.warspite.org.uk; on facebook at www. facebook.com/warspiteseascouts or via emails to scouts@warspite.org.uk. The group is open to boys & girls from 5 ¾ to 18; with opportunities for adult volunteering.

Richard Hunt Group Scout Leader, 1st Cuddington (Warspite) Sea Scout Group

To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

27

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Worcester Park l Stoneleigh l Ewell l New Malden l Cheam Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers

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29

tea time

CODEWORD

Codeword

Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are Each letter in this puzzle is represented shown. As you find1the by a different number between and 26. lettersletters enter them in the box The codes for three are shown. below.

Once you have filled these throughout the grid you can start guessing words and reveal other letters. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

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6

17

25

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26 14

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THE FIRST LENS TO OFFER PROTECTION AGAINST UV ON BOTH FRONT AND BACK SURFACES OF THE LENS

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R WOODFALL OPTICIANS

Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:30pm Saturday 9:00am to 2:00pm

1

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25 5

16 1

3 9

3 23

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3

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WandsWorth

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the better life Cutting it fine

by Derek Thompson The crisp and sometimes frosty mornings now don’t deter nature. It whispers, ‘spring is coming - honest - it’s just stuck in traffic.’ There’s work to be done, and plenty of it. To begin with, Anne decided more snowdrops would be just the thing, so she carefully lifted the clumps and divided them before replanting.

My contribution was to go and put the kettle on.

This is a time of year for taking stock in the garden and for preparing to restock. Inevitably, there are casualties; even perennials have their limitations and our perpetual chard has finally reached the end. We’ll definitely plant out more though, as perpetual chard is the gift that keeps on giving. It’s also time to start onions and spring salad leaves under cover.

The tail end of winter - fingers crossed at time of writing - also marks that point where firewood stocks are running low and it’s time to bring out Charlie the Chainsaw. When I first acquired the saw it spent a long time in the shed with its blade pristine, despite Anne constructing a sawhorse that looked like something out of The Krypton Factor.

I’m afraid my reputation where pointy things, electricity, heat or water are concerned is well deserved. My initial worry with the chainsaw was that I’d be all fingers and thumbs. Fortunately, it’s a small, electric model, so no risk of anything involving the words whirring and ladder. Even so, the first time I used it I somehow managed to slip the chain from the mechanism. It’s all in the preparation: read the booklet first and then watch the clips on the Internet.

Cutting up firewood can be immensely satisfying when you’ve lugged it up from the woods or rescued it from a lay-by. Okay, it might not be up there with building an igloo or trekking through the Amazon but it’s still working in harmony with the environment.

The whole garden gets a bit of a spruce up now, although we leave the anti-frost fleece around the vulnerable plants until warmer weather is assured. Our tools receive some much-needed attention as well, and I generally clean out the dried grass from the lawn mower that I promised myself I’d do before Christmas.

Indoors, the Vietnamese coriander is thriving, as are the cuttings we took of icing sugar, penstemon and heather (it was discarded on a footpath and I thought waste not, want not). Our seeds are labelled up and ready - the usual vegetable suspects, plus agapanthus, last year’s chillies, a lemon seed or two and a ginger bud. (I’m ever hopeful of producing a completely

homegrown curry sauce one day.)

There are also repairs to consider. The roof of the coalbunker is more plastic sheeting than wood now, so every storm is followed by my own version of rooftop Russian roulette. Similarly, the shed door is surviving by a single, ailing hinge. It will all require time, effort and skill - luckily, I know just the neighbour. Speaking of which, we had a visitor recently - a former neighbour who moved away a year ago. He said he was just passing and asked if he could borrow our wheelbarrow.

Unfortunately for him, we don’t have one. As it almost says in Hamlet, “Neither a lender nor a barrower be.”

Derek Thompson is a writer and humourist based in the West Country.His writing blog can be found at www. alongthewritelines.blogspot.com and he is also a

To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

33

clubs

To feature in this section email info@wplife.co.uk

Mondays Do you enjoy listening to show tunes, big band music, jazz, light classics etc?

Come along to an evening of live music played by top artistes. We meet on the second Monday of each month at our Banstead venue Banstead Organ & Keyboard Club Church Institute Hall, High Street, Banstead SM7 2NN 10th February – Steve Hubble Doors open 7pm for 7:30pm start.(Visitors £7) Visitors & new members are always welcome to our concerts.

Further details from 020 8330 5795, or visit www. bansteadorganclub.co.uk Worcester Parkers Women’s Institute meet on the 3rd Monday of every month 7.45pm to 9.45pm at Christchurch with St Philip Church Hall in Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park.

For more information contact Dawn Penn 0208 337 4361 Email dawn.wicontact@gmail.com Cheam Common Art Group Small friendly Art Group who meet at CHRIST CHURCH with ST PHILIP Ruskin Road, Worcester Park on Monday evenings 7.30 – 9.30 p.m.

Welcome new members just to draw and paint in any medium without tuition.

If interested come down for an evening

34

and meet us to see whether this is for you Phone Contact: Brenda Banks 020 8330 0928 Worcester Park Over 60’s Welcome Club meet every Monday from 1pm to 3pm at Christ Church with St Philip Church Hall in Ruskin Drive. Worcester Park.

All over 60’s welcome to join us for a cup of tea and a biscuit or two, plus some outstanding entertainment in the way of singers and musicians. One Monday a month we have Bingo and every Monday we run a raffle. Days outings to the coast are organised throughout the summer months, and mid week holidays are organised two or three times a year. Come a little earlier and meet up with some friends and have a chat before the entertainment starts.

We would love to see you. Contact Joyce on 020 8330 5065.

The ladies After Eight Club meet on the 2nd Monday of every month from 8pm onwards at Christchurch with St Philips church hall. We have interesting speakers, outings and dinners and all are welcome for a small subscription to cover our costs. Just come along and join in.

Please contact Carol on 020 8337 2452 for further information

Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers

Tuesdays The Worcester Park Dramatic Society is a local amateur drama group of long standing. We stage two major productions a year at the Adrian Mann Theatre in Ewell, in April and November. We meet every Tuesday and most Fridays at 8.15 pm in the Elmcroft Community Centre in North Cheam, on the Sainsbury’s site. Apart from play readings, rehearsals and set construction, we have quiz nights and various social events. We also arrange group outings to amateur and professional theatre productions.

We welcome new members to help us stage future productions, anyone willing to act or work backstage.

If interested, please contact our membership secretary, Joyce Cranfield, on 020 8337 3317.

“Lunch Break” - a friendly lunch club for those retired, meeting on a Tuesday 12-2pm (term time only) at Worcester Park Baptist Church, The Avenue - free, but donations invited. Occasional speakers. Contact Brian on 020 8224 6675 or Rowena 07837 941298 NHS Retirement Fellowship- Local Branch Are you retired or about to retire from the NHS? Why not join us on the 1st Tuesday of every month from 10am -12 at Christ Church Hall, Christ Church Road, Surbiton, KT5 8JJ. We have speakers, activities, coffee & chat.Other outings & activities are also arranged during the month. For further details please contact Lorna on 020 8337 4121.

Worcester Park Crafters We meet on the first Tuesday of each month in the hall at Christchurch with St Philip, Ruskin Drive, Worcester park,KT4 8LG. We meet from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. For further details please contact Lynne by E mail: lynnesinger@msn. com or phone on:020 8330 5903 Our aim is to provide a meeting/crafting place for all crafters whatever their craft or ability. Either bring your own work or purchase our kit of the month (small materials cost usually £2), come and play and chat. (small cost to over hall hire and insurance approx £4) Craft group - We meet at Christ Church with St Philip Ruskin Drive on the first TUESDAY of the month from 7.309.30pm A place where all crafters whatever their craft or ability can meet, craft, share ideas and learn from each other. Feel free to bring your own projects or you can try our project of the month Cost: £5 per session Lynne Singer 020 8330 3590 or Toni Shepherd 07900 006367

Wednesdays Keep Fit Stay Fit every Wednesday 10.15-11.15am at Christ Church with St Philip, Ruskin Road. Come along and give it a try ! For more information please call Jo Hamilton on 020 8786 3444.

The Probus Club of Ewell Coming up to retirement? Just retired? Looking to make new friends? Why not join the Probus Club of Ewell? Since it was founded 41 years ago, the Probus

Club of Ewell has been attracting businessmen from Worcester Park and its surrounding areas with a broad range of professional and business backgrounds. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month, usually at Bourne Hall in Ewell Village, for a Lunch followed by a Speaker. In addition to two Ladies Lunches during the year, there is an active social programme for members and their partners with visits to places of interest and West End Shows. If you would like to know more, please telephone our secretary, Ken Amess, on 020 8337 6241 or visit our website: .ewell-probus.org.uk

Thursdays East Surrey Family History Society For those who are interested in finding out how to investigate their family history the Sutton Branch of the East Surrey Family History Society holds meetings on the first Thursday of the month at St Nicholas Church Hall, Robin Hood Lane. Most months we have a professional speaker.

Further details of all our branch meetings, can be found at Our award winning website www.esfhs.org.uk 60+ Social Mixed Single Group We meet in a local pub every Thursday where we discuss outings for the weekends such as meal out, walking, theatre trips, cinemas and many other things. If you would like to join us please ring Maureen: 07761278661.

Kingston Phoenix Road Club is a cycling club that meets at 8-30pm every Thursday at Worcester Park Athlete Club, Green Lane, Worcester Park. The club was founded in 1936 and currently has a membership of 70. We cater for riders of all ages whether they are novices or experienced and our oldest rider is 84 years old who is still racing and holds several national age related records.

Malden Emergency First Aid Society (MEFAS) members meet every Thursday evening from 7.30 to 10pm. The public is invited to join members on short training courses.

For further details please see MEFAS web site at http://evoice.org.uk/mefas/ or telephone 020 8942 8653 or 07966661015 Breathe Easy (Merton & Sutton) Group.

Wheezy? Breathless? you are not alone, come and join us at your local friendly support & information group for anyone affected by a lung condition.We meet between 2 - 4 pm on the 3rd. Thursday of every month at St Bedes Conference Centre, St Anthony’s Hospital, London Road, North Cheam. For more information please contact George on 0208 647 7530 Thursday Fellowship. Every Thursday at 2.30pm for men and women, finishing with a cup of tea and biscuits or cakes. A lively, friendly meeting at Worcester Park Baptist church in The Avenue. Well-known, familiar hymns and prayers, musical afternoons, and a variety of speakers on topical subjects, including help and advice. New members welcome. For more information ring Jean Gathercole on 020 8642 9649

To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

35

Fridays Bartlett House Luncheon Club is a welcoming social club for the retired from work but not from life! Bartlett house, 49-51 The Avenue, Worcester Park,KT4 7HU Catch up with friends every Friday 11am-4pm This fun and friendly club is not for profit ensuring prices are kept to a minimum so it won’t cost the earth! New members welcome.

Transport may be available. Contact us on 01372 720563 or 07807443156 Quest was set up in 1987 to provide a meeting place for people with physical disabilities between the ages of 20 - 60. However, once a member there is no age cut off. The aim of the club is to provide a welcoming, caring atmosphere for the members and allow the carers to have a regular break. Annual subscription. and £2.50 for lunch.

We have various social activities and every second month we have a speaker, outings can be arranged if enough people wish to go. The venue is St. Philip Hall, Christchurch with St. Philip, Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park. We meet the 2nd and 4th Fridays in the month from 12.45 to 4p.m Contact June Day, Club Secretary, on 02083301220 RSPB Epsom And Ewell Local Group We meet the 2nd Friday of every month at 7.30, apart from July and August, at All Saints Church Hall Fulford Road, West Ewell with guest speakers who illustrate their enthusiasm on a variety of natural history subjects. There is a small charge for non-members of the RSPB. If you would like more information, please look at our website, www.rspb.org.uk/groups/epsom

GroupFormed in 1971, we run a varied programme of social eventswhich includes Evening Lectures at Bourne Hall in Ewell, once a month from Oct. to June, Coach Outings which visit historichouses and gardens(not necessarily N.T.),Guided London Walks, and other trips to London e.g.The Magic Circle, The Royal Opera House (backstage tour).Other special events include Coffee Mornings, Holidays and Christmas Lunch.

Newsletters are produced four times a year.If you would like more information please visit our website: www.epsom-ewell-district-nt.co.uk or telephone Paul on 020 87158486 Malden Manor Bowls Club Where: Manor Park, Malden Road. New members will be made very welcome. Roll ups, league matches, internal and external competition; we offer bowling for all levels of interest and ability. Contact Men’s Secretary John: 020 8337 0084 or Ladies Secretary Pat: 020 8544 9704 Cheam High School.

Cheam High School Gym NO contract or joining fee, and just £15 a month. It has everything other gyms have, we also have a Personal Trainer on hand to help out and give advise FREE of charge, something other gyms don’t offer. www.facebook.com/CHSGym We open to the public at 5pm-9.30pm Monday - Friday and 10am-5pm Saturdays

General Auriol Bowling Club was established in 1967, and plays on the 6-rink bowling green attached to the pavilion in Auriol Park, Salisbury Road, Worcester Park. It is a mixed club of around 45 men and 25 women, who play outdoors from April to September, with a busy fixture list of league and friendly matches against other clubs, as well as internal club competitions. For further information please contact the club Secretary, David Regan, on 020 8337 8919 or visit the website at www.auriolbowlingclub.com.

Cuddington Bowling Club will always welcome new members. The club is situated in Sandringham Road, Worcester Park and we play on an excellent 6 rink green that has been acclaimed by many of the club’s visitors this year. We are a mixed club with about 60 members and play a range of friendly and league fixtures catering for all abilities. For further information, please contact our Secretary Mike Ridley 02087158326 or our Treasurer Mark Broughton 02083379699.

Social Dancing With “ Glitters” At Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell Village 8.15 pm – 11.00 pm Entrance £8 Over 18’s All standards Bar & Free parking & Professional D J We may not have Brucie but we do have a glitter ball!

January 3rd and 17th, February 7th and 21st 07903 314276 National Trust - Epsom, Ewell and District Supporters

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Epsom Coaches The Finest Coach Holidays 2014 Holiday Brochure Out Now!

Luxury UK and European Touring Holidays Free home pick ups on every departure For a free copy of our 2014 holiday brochure, please telephone 01372 731705 or visit www.epsomcoaches.com To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

37

gardening A Pet Project

by Pippa Greenwood There’s always a lot to say about small pests such as greenfly, caterpillars, vine-weevil and so forth, but early in the year it’s some of the bigger ‘residents’ which can really drive you around the bend. I’m talking about cats and dogs. What can you do to ensure that you continue to garden happily, successfully and safely, despite the fact the garden is visited by cats and dogs… and without harming these lovely creatures either?

You may need to consider actively fencing off one part of the garden for your dog, and trying to keep another area completely dog free. If you have problems with dogs coming in from next door, then it’s essential that you make repairs to fences. Now is a good time because there’s relatively little plant foliage to hide holes, gaps or loose panels in fencing. Remember that the dog is also likely to be able to squeeze underneath or around many types of fence, so you may need to use chicken netting or similar. Don’t forget that gates as well as fences need

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38

to be dog-proofed, and never left open for the dog to wander through. If you really have a serious problem that this won’t resolve then you can try a fox deterrent such as ‘Fox-Watch’.

Sometimes a few strategically planted dense and prickly shrubs such as pyracantha may help to deter digging paws. Obviously you don’t want to cause the animal actual harm, but something sharp, prickly or simply very dense can act as a good deterrent.

Next door’s cat or others in the neighbourhood are trickier to deal with as unfortunately they do tend to try and do their ‘toileting’ along the edges of their own territory, making your garden a prime target area.

If your cat or a neighbour’s cat is a problem, bear in mind that the more bare soil there is, the more likely that a cat will start to use it as its loo. Ground cover planting is essential and you could always use temporary annual flowers to fill in gaps between longer term planting. If you find that these too are scuffed up shortly after you have planted them, then the best thing to do is cover newly planted areas of bedding with an arch of chicken mesh or with sticks with taut string tied between them. Obviously this will look a mess but can be removed promptly once the plants have rooted well and started to establish. I have found that the electronic cat deterrent ‘Cat-Watch’ works very well too.

Mulching materials can sometimes cause problems and despite what the label says, many gardeners have told me that they found that the cocoa shell mulches seem to attract cats. Generally speaking soggy mulches like this or anything with a strong smell do tend to deter cats, as they hate digging in moist material. Take extreme care if dogs use the garden as cocoshell mulches can prove fatal to them. Mulches made of large pebbles or stones also tend to keep them at bay, but smaller diameter gravel or shingle seems to be quite attractive to some cats.

Areas of freshly sown seed look very attractive to a cat or dog and again are best protected either by chicken mesh or sticks and string. Remember to keep the string taut at all times, as there’s a slight risk that birds could become entangled in it.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for a great range of gardening-related items including ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ veg growing system, electronic cat and fox deterrents, lots of slug controls, Pippa’s favourite weeding tool, and many other useful garden items.

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Mary's Story

For too many years Mary had been 'managing' by herself.

Fiercely independent, she was just about making it through each day. Her daughter had tried many times to persuade Mary to get someone to help her with a bit of companionship, some home help, just a friendly face popping in from time to time to check she was okay.

Mary point blankly refused. It took a fall and a brief spell in hospital for her poor daughter to decide enough was enough and regardless of mums procrastinations she made enquiries to get some help.

Home Instead came to the rescue in the form of Sue, a fifty something local lady who lived round the corner from Mary.

Sue's gently and patient nature matched her perfectly with Mary's reluctance. Sue visited Mary twice a week for a number of weeks gently breaking down barriers that Mary had so fervently put up.

Each visit Sue made, Mary unveiled a small piece of herself.

Although her short-term memory was starting to fail her, Mary's recollections of wartime and rationing were still so vivid.

During one of their chats, Mary revealed that she had won several awards for her ballroom dancing in her youth and even had a few trophies buried deep in the back of a cupboard somewhere.

Knowing the area, Sue suggested they attend a tea dance, in the hall round the corner one Thursday.

"If I'm going again next week, I’ll need to have my hair done!" ~ Mary

In the hope to generate some enthusiasm but Mary wasn't keen.

Each time the dance was mentioned, it fell on deaf ears!

Until one day Mary, quite reluctantly, agreed to give it a try - just this once.

Mary was in a particularly bad mood that day and sat at the edge of the dance floor, stony faced throughout, and peering over her frown every so often to observe what was going on. Sue had started to question if this had been a good idea.

After returning Mary home, Sue put on her coat to leave and as she got to the door, Mary looked up at Sue and said, "If I'm going again next week, I’ll need to have my hair done!"

Mary now has her hair done every week, like she used to, in anticipation of Thursday.

And with Sue's help, she has new dresses, and a comfy pair of shoes to dance in - well you can't Waltz in slippers now can you!!

Home Instead Wimbledon & Kingston, providing home care services in your area.

Our ethos is to 'change the face of ageing' 0208 942 4137 http://www.homeinstead.co.uk/wimbledonandkingston Join us on twitter @cjhomeinstead

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39

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I can also help with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and low self-esteem.

I am a counsellor/psychotherapist based in Worcester Park and hold a Human Givens Diploma (with merit).

Human Givens therapy was developed about twenty years ago and works with the client to establish which of their emotional needs are not being met in balance.

My method using the Human Givens approach to counselling is holistic (treating the whole person).

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41

Voice for Wildlife A frog he would a wooing go...

by Carol Williams

February may see the arrival of courting frogs at the pond in Shadbolt Park, if the weather is mild enough.

Those who have been following my wildlife notes here since we restored the pond in 2010 may recall that the very first Spring of the new pond’s existence, the frogs arrived in February and, astonishingly, the first spawn that we saw there, was laid on St Valentine’s Day! Everything was new, and still settling in, and not much cover around the edges, and a lily that we had put in there became the focus of froggy activity. That first Spring, 2011, it was as if all the frogs for miles around had heard through some froggy grapevine that there was some new ‘real estate’ just waiting for colonisation, and they came and deposited their spawn, in one massive clump, over and under and alongside this one lily. The wonderful sound of croaking male frogs could be heard there on some of the warmer days as they frolicked in the water in full view of anyone standing still and quiet nearby.

In 2012, when the Spring was colder and the Summer was very wet, there were fewer frogs. We did not notice much spawn, but pond dippings during the year revealed all manner of aquatic life thriving in the water. And as the oxygentating pond weed spread, the creatures multiplied. Every fallen Autumn leaf we cleared from the shallows in October was covered in tiny ramshorn water snails.

Last Spring was spectacular. An enormous amount of spawn was laid in our pond. Everything happened late, but when it did, it exploded into abundance.

2013 was a wonderful year down by Shadbolt Pond.

The water and the surrounding wild areas were an unfolding miracle of life all through Spring, Summer and Autumn, from the first frogs, to all the variety of insects and wildflowers that flourished there.

And soon, it will all begin again, with the arrival of the wooing frogs in February or March.

Frogs live for part of the year in moist places, not too far from water, and hibernate from about mid October in sheltered corners on land. They emerge to spawn in early Spring. They usually stay in the water for a while after spawning, leaving during April to live on land. The young frogs tend to

42

migrate from the water in June or July. As they are very vulnerable to predators at this time, plenty of vegetation near the pond is helpful. At Shadbolt Pond we have tried to create cover for them by encouraging the growth of long grass and the common plants so often disparaged as ‘weeds’ which are essential and valuable to many small creatures.

Small urban ponds are becoming life savers for our amphibian species, since so many natural wetlands and farm ponds have been drained in recent

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decades. Even a very tiny garden pond is a valuable resource for wildlife.

Please do come along and visit us in the Spring and Summer months. We are there, pottering about the site, on Wednesdays and Saturdays for an hour from about 10.30 am, and will be happy to dip a container into the water and show you what is living in there -from about March onwards. Anybody who would like to work there with us is especially welcome! No expertise is necessary, we learn by observing and doing, and take advice, as needed, from the Surrey Wildlife Trust. We are indebted, for so many small maintenance tasks, to the Epsom Parks Ranger Service who have been so helpful to us during the past 3 years. And the paint for smartening up our notice board last Summer was generously gifted to us by the Council’s Parks Maintenance crew.

Whatever happe ns down by the pond in 2014, I know that the wildlife will continue to amaze, entertain, delight and sometimes challenge us (thinking here of the brambles....!) and I look forward to seeing it all unfold for another year.

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FRIDAY 7TH FEB AN EVENING WITH SINGER PAUL BUCKNALL SATURDAY 8TH FEB BAND FROM THE PUB ARE BACK. LOVE WEEKEND STARTS WITH FRIDAY 14TH FEB SINGER JOE KING SATURDAY VALENTINES DANCE WITH OFF THE RECORD FRIDAY 21ST FEB DIAMONDS UNCUT ARE BACK SATURDAY NIGHT IS ROCK AND ROLL NIGHT WITH THE MIDNIGHT FLYERS FRIDAY 28TH KAREOKE NIGHT WITH KEVIN QUINEN SATURDAY 1ST MARCH DANCING WITH JOE KING DON'T FORGET ITS NEVER TOO LATE TO JOIN NOW RECRUITING PLACES AVAILABLE WHY NOT COME AND SEE US AT ANY TIME DON'T MISS OUT ON WORCESTERPARK’S HOME OF ENTERTAINMENT To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915 QP July 11 .indd 1

43 6/14/2011 10:39:06 AM

kids play There’s lots going on for pre-schoolers Monday

Worcester Park Baptist Church 9.30-11.30- a lively toddler group, where carers of any kind are welcome to attend and supervise their youngsters. Our age range is from young babies to 3-4 years. Sarah on 020 8393 7299 or email via the church’s website www.wpbc.org.uk Christ Church with St Philip Parent and Toddler Group is a very welcoming and relaxed place to meet new friends for yourself and your toddlers. We are open to all Mums, Dads, Grandparents and Carers. We meet in the Church Hall on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9.30 until 11.15am during term time

Tuesday

Toddling2Church, Christ Church with St Philip 2-3pm Parents, carers and pre-school children are all welcome

to join us for songs with percussion instruments, a Bible story simply and sensitively told, a story-related craft activity and, of course, drinks and biscuits.

Wednesday

Christ Church with St Philip Parent and Toddler Group 9.30 until 11.15am - see Monday Worcester Park Baptist Church 9.30-11.30- see Monday. we have vacancies on a Wednesday

Friday

Christ Church with St Philip Parent and Toddler Group 9.30 until 11.15am - see Monday

Saturday

Men behaving Dadly, Grace Church - every 3rd Saturday of the month, 9.30 to 11 am, at Green Lane Primary School. For Dads and their pre-school children (0-4). The kids get to play with the toys, the Dads get a bacon roll and coffee, and Mums might possibly get a lie-in... £3 on the door. For more information & contact details, www.gracechurchworcesterpark.org Old Malden Library (Church Road, Worcester Park) Tuesdays, 10.30-11am, Rhyme time aimed at age 0-3 Tuesdays, 2.30-3pm, Story time aimed at age 3+

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their own homes to live the life they choose. Our services range from 30 minute calls through to full time support in the form of Live In Care.

Expert Care, Expert Help In the comfort of Your Own Home We can help in so many ways To arrange a free no-obligation informal chat about how GES Care can help you live an independent life

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For a FREE NO OBLIGATION home visit telephone 020 8399 1226 Or visit our showroom: 406 Ewell Road, View our credentials at Tolworth, Surrey KT6 7HF Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers 46Email kt@dreamdoorsltd.co.uk

what’s on

St Raphaels Fundraising

Please support St Raphael’s Hospice. Here are some of the events taking place in the next few months. For a full list of events as they are available please visit our website www.straphaels.org.uk Wednesday 12th March 14 – Quiz Evening @ St Bede’s conference centre (behind the hospice). Table of 8: £72. For more details or to book please call: Bob Waters: 020 8337 3134 or Diana 020 8641 3540 Sunday 23rd March 14 - St Raphael’s Hospice Tandem Skydive. Don’t miss the experience of a lifetime! A chance to join a group – the ultimate adventure!

Minimum sponsorship £395. For more details contact: Kerry Thomas T: 020 8254 2465, email: Kerry.thomas@straphaelshospice.org.uk Sunday 10th Aug 14 - Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100, starting at the Olympic Park in London and finishing at The Mall. We have guaranteed places available. Minimum sponsorship of £450. For an application form contact: Kerry Thomas T: 020 8254 2465, email: Kerry.thomas@straphaelshospice.org.uk

Local Markets

Cheam Village Friday Market Small indoor market with 28 stalls held in Cheam Parochial Rooms, The Broadway, Cheam Village, Surrey.

Helping the Royal Marsden Hospital.

Market Days: Friday North Cheam Farmers’ Market – 3rd Saturday of every month, 9.30am-1.30pm, North Cheam Crossroads outside the Post Office, KT4 8SG. Christmas Market: Saturday 21st December Sutton Local Produce and Craft Market, Sat 30th November, 10am-4pm, Town Square, Sutton High Street New Malden Farmer’s Market 1st Saturday of the month Georges Square (by New Malden Train Station) 9am to 2pm Surbiton Farmers Market Maple Road 3rd Saturday of the month 9am-1pm

Nonsuch News

“National media focus on the Tudors/local interest in Tudor history on our doorstep in Nonsuch Park.

BBC2 has a season on Tudor history; the V & A has an exhibition of Tudor Art and Buckingham Palace is showing portraits exploring Tudor fashion. The local resident, however, does not need to travel to London to appreciate some of Tudor history. An amazing model of the original Nonsuch Palace, built by Henry VIII to celebrate the birth of his son Edward – so important to the Tudor dynasty – is on view every every Sunday in the winter 11 – 2 p.m in the Gallery

of the Mansion, Service Wing entrance, Nonsuch Park.

The site is marked on the Northern side of the Park by three tall pillars which now stand as the only physical evidence of this amazing building. They are as three sentries guarding a bygone age.

In addition, a unique and important collection of stained glass amassed by Samuel Farmer, owner of the present Mansion in the early 1800’s, features one particular panel commemorating the marriage of Jane Seymour to Henry VIII – only 11 days after the execution of Anne Boleyn! These are just a few of the treasures on view in the Nonsuch Mansion Service Wing Museum open on 2nd & 4th Sundays in the month (9th and 23rd) 2 – 5 p.m. Combined entry to Gallery & Museum £3.00, Concessions £2.00. Friends of Nonsuch Members & Children under 16 free. Entry only to Gallery £2.50. Last entry 4.30 p.m. www.friendsofnonsuch.co.uk”

Bourne Hall Museum Kids

In the deep time of prehistory early men crawled down into the darkest caves and used light from primitive candles to paint pictures of themselves and the animals they hunted.

They left behind a vivid record of their way of life and some clues of what they believed in. Discover how and why these paintings were created.

Then by flickering light try to create your own cave painting

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47

in our very own ‘caves’.

Epsom Playhouse, CAVE PAINTING Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5AL Wednesday 19 February (01372) 742555 / 742227 CLOSE UP AT THE PLAYHOUSE 11am-12.30pm & 2pm-3.30pm in the Myers Studio Cost £4 per child. Two identical sessions will be run, please Probably The Best Comedy Songs In The World Ever book to reserve your place; maximum 20 children.

1 February With Pat Abernethy and Dave Marsden.

PRIVATEERS & EXPLORERS A Feast of Gilbert and Sullivan 4 February SATURDAY 8 FEBRUARY 1PM-2.30PM The UK’s No1 G&S Concert With Former Singers of The Discover the excitements and dangers of D”Oyly Carte Opera Company. Starring Marilyn Hill exploration in Tudor times, when the world was Smith – Soprano, Louise Crane – Mezzo, Nicholas Sales still being discovered. Meet with Simpkin, a Tudor Privateer and has sailedqualified & professional – Tenor, R.J. Jeremy Peaker –are Baritone, Richard Woodall – Tree qualified & profession R.J.Explorer Tree who Services staffServices dedicated around the world with Captain Drake on the Bass. Accompanied By David Smith. Recapturing all the to the highest levels of service in every instance.

Golden Hind. to the highest levels of service in funevery and magic of the original D’Oyly Carte Opera Listen to his tales of the hardship of life on Joe Longthorne 6 February 2014 We are happy toasgive Weor are happy give advice – on your arboricultural queries. board, the months even years spentto away Joeall Longthorne is recognised one ofadvice the most – on all you from home, and the horrors of living with dynamic entertainers in British show business. His scurvey. Relive the excitement of visiting exotic impressions have an uncanny ability accuracy and • afor Free quotes lands and hear tales of battles against the • Free quotes his impressive voice will take you on kaleidoscope are dedicated Spanish.

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Punt & Dennis 8 February 2014 Life on the road is all rock-n-roll glamour. STEVE PUNT and HUGH DENNIS live the dream as they cruise the contraflow lanes, follow the one-way systems, unwrap the pasties and sip the service-station coffees of Britain in their quest to find somewhere to park vaguely near a theatre in your town.

Enrico Tomasso’s Riverboat Six 10 February 2014 Acker Bilks trumpeter leads this all star band.

Chris Barber Band 11 February 2014 The Big Chris Barber Band “60th Anniversary Tour” Europe’s Finest Traditional Jazz & Blues Band Chris Barber OBE, this year celebrates his Diamond Jubilee as leader of his band on a full-time professional basis. A band that stands out as one of the finest, if not thé finest, of its kind anywhere in the world.

Psychic Sally On the Road 13 February 2014 Star of Sky LIVING’s Psychic Sally On The Road, Britain’s favorite TV psychic, Sally Morgan returns with her outstanding 2013 nationwide tour.

Gerry Cross The Mersey 14 February 2014 Join in this musical journey through the life and times of one of our greatest 60s icons - Gerry Marsden.

Gerry & The Pacemakers topped the UK and US charts for much of the 60s. Gerry talks about his early beginnings in Liverpool, those heady days of the 60s and up to the present.

Griffin Lynch Presents ‘Come into the parlour & make yourself at home’ 15 February 2014 An evening of Irish music, song and dance. Including a preview of the dancers and dances for the Irish Dancing World Championships in London 2014. =All Star Superslam Wrestling 17 February 2014 Epsom welcomes back Britain’s most established wrestling organisation - All Star Wrestling for a 2 hour action packed family wrestling event at the Epsom Playhouse Bringing top American wrestling superstars to face the best of British in a giant royal rumble over the top rope action to find ‘The king of the Ring’.

Guaranteed the best night of action which will have the kids talking about for days after the event Theo The Mouse 19 February 2014 an afternoon of pure family fun and laughter. Filled to the brim with jokes, songs and magic and suitable for any little person over 2 years of age this show is perfect holiday entertainment.

Presenting Roy Orbison & Friends with Barry Steele 20 February 2014 If you love good music, then this is the show for you as Barry Steele presents his all live spectacular Multi Media Tribute to The Big O, featuring classic Orbison hits from the 60’s right through to the Late 80’s.

ELO Experience 21 February 2014 MR BLUE SKY TOUR featuring the fabulous ELO EXPERIENCE.

House Clearance Specialists

mail@bitsandbobsclearance.co.uk Furniture, antiques, collectibles & ornaments bought & sold BROWSERS WELCOMED BUYERS CUDDLED!!

WE BUY UNWANTED and JEWELLERY AND SCRAP Better prices paid than companies currently advertising on TV!!

Fully itemised and illustrated Probate Valuations, Probate Office approved Registered Waste Carriers

www.bitsandbobsclearance.co.uk

To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

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Cake and Bake Bakewell Tart

Modern commercial versions of the Bakewell Tart are easily found in most supermarket cake departments, but they are generally oversweet with a stodgy texture.

This home-made Bakewell Tart is well worth the effort then, being light, crumbly and full of flavour.

Preheat the oven to 190°C/170°C (fan)/Gas mark 5.

Grease either a round dish (28cm diameter) or an oblong tin (20 by 30cm) with soft butter. You can also put some greaseproof paper in the bottom of the dish, to help the finished tart come out if you want to serve onto a plate before cutting.

Roll out the pastry until it’s fairly thin and then put into the dish or tin, trimming off the excess pastry.

Cover the base of the pastry case with greaseproof paper and then blind bake for 15 minutes by covering the paper with ceramic beans or dried pulses.

Remove the paper and beans from the baked pastry, then return to the oven for a further 5 minutes until the pastry is golden. When the pastry case has cooled, spread the jam evenly over the base.

In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Whisk the eggs in a jug then gradually add to the mixing bowl, beating as you go.

Add the lemon juice, lemon zest and the almond extract, then gently fold in the ground almonds.

Professional Toe Nail Cutting Service For those who find it difficult to cut their own nails

Professionally trained, enhanced CRB certificate.

Cut and file of all types of nails from straight forward to more complex.

Treatment of hard skin and a foot cream/massage provided.

I can visit you at home or in a residential centre.

Price £22 per person, per household, per visit, discounts available if more than one person in the same household, eg husband and wife.

Please contact Julie on:

50

07932 510855

Spoon the mixture evenly into the case and gently spread to the sides of the dish.

Sprinkle the flaked almonds over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the filling is golden on top and feels firm in the middle.

Remove and allow to cool for 15 minutes before serving.

MOT and

SERVICE CENTRE MOTs for Cars, Vans, Minibuses and Motorhomes We carry out MOTs on site with late appointments available Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings this advert with you and 10% OFF Bring receive 10% discount*.

FREE Anti-freeze, battery and tyre check Comfortable waiting area with TV and wi-fi Free local collection and delivery can be arranged

SPECIAL READER OFFER!

Ring now or email for bookings 020 8394 2847 info@elmwoodvehicles.co.uk www.elmwoodvehicles.co.uk • www.elmwoodtvr.com 278 Kingston Road, Ewell, Epsom, KT19 0SH

Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers

*For any new customers

1 packet shortcrust pastry 200g raspberry jam 175g butter, room temperature 175g caster sugar 4 large eggs 2 dessertspoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 dessertspoon almond extract 250g ground almonds 60g flaked almonds

JANUARY 2014 UPDATE Where are all our boards?

The landscape around the area has changed just a little since we last wrote. A few trees and numerous fences succumbed to the wind and rain that kept us all inside over Christmas and New Year. Our boards did not escape the effects of the weather and wondered at one stage if some might even make it into the next county. There are rather a lot of Jackson Noon boards in the area and some of them were harder to track down than others. If one has made it into your garden we apologise. Please give us a quick call and we will be delighted to retrieve it as soon as possible.

Camera at the ready Hopefully, despite the weather, everybody enjoyed some time off. Christmas, and especially the start of a new year are always a time for reflection and forward planning so it came as no surprise that we are inundated with enquiries and valuations. There is something about the long holiday, and subsequent New Year’s resolutions, that annually results in our phones ringing ten to the dozen. Not that we are complaining.

As a result the beginning of the year has been very busy as the sales and lettings teams are out in force valuing, measuring, drawing up floor plans and photographing property ready to bring to market.

Just as in the previous couple of years there was a surge of interest in property as soon as the festive season was over. Boxing Day saw a considerable number of visits to property websites, including our own, and a flurry of enquiries. Initially that tends to be mainly 'window shopping' but by the second week of the month it was in full swing and started to translate to keen interest, viewings, and a number of very acceptable offers. Although the property market is no longer seasonal it is always good to see a very positive start to the year.

Meanwhile our Lettings department are busy assessing the damage, organising repairs and making sure that we know about any problems but that could do with a little attention. As they say, a stitch in time saves nine, so we are busy dealing with minor works to help our landlords avoid expensive repairs if the winds pick up again. We are also keeping a watchful eye on several properties currently being renovated and due to be ready to rent in the next couple of months.

The future The statistics in the press are much what we thought they would be. Nationally house prices rose last year by 8.4%. London leads the way with a 15% rise and locally we estimate prices rose by around 10% depending on the property type and location. November 2013 saw a 6 year high in the level of mortgages approved, and we would certainly agree with that as that leads us to an almost record number of completions due to go through in January. With the strong start we are seeing to this year we expect 2014 to be another good year for the property market.

Lettings@JacksonNoon.com

Sales@JacksonNoon.com

To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

51

safer neighbourhoods Changes afoot

by PCSO Gary Weaving

There have been a few changes in personnel for the Worcester Park and Nonsuch teams recently. Worcester Park has a new Home Beat Officer, PC Neil Burns joined us early in January and is looking forward to learning more about his new ward and its residents needs.

Most notably, for both wards we welcome the arrival of a new Sergeant.

He asked that he might take the opportunity to introduce himself on the ‘Safer Neighbourhoods’ page.

Hello to you all. My name is Andrew De’Voreaux and I have been appointed as the new Sergeant for both wards, based at the Worcester Park Office. I have already had the pleasure of meeting some of you while I’ve been out and about on the wards and it’s very nice to see that everyone has greeted me with a smile and a friendly chat. I am currently in the nesting stage of my integration in the Safer Neighbourhood Family having spent the last seven years working on the Safer Transport Team, which is part of the Pan London Safer Transport Command.

My vision & commitment to the wards is quite simple and is in addition to the expectations/priorities of the community we serve, I am passionate about making the wards the safest on the borough and I envisage achieving this by implementing zero tolerance toward ASB (Anti-social Behaviour). I am keen to explore new ways in which we can communicate and work together, such as Virtual Ward Panels, give you the opportunity to come and work with us on some our overt operations, such as Speed Watch. I want to reconnect old partnerships and seek to build new relationships in order to achieve an our objective, look at community tensions and where necessary provide the support & guidance where possible or seek to assist in obtaining such support from our external partners. I want to recruit (NHW) Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators on every street across the wards, establishing a two way system for better communication within our community, providing a support network for the more vulnerable. I am also keen to make the roads safer on the wards with a zero tolerance towards blatant disregard to Road Signage and enforce offences of ‘Driving Whilst Using a Hand Held Device, Not wearing of seat belts, No Insurance, Driving Not In Accordance with a Licence etc.... We hold ward Surgeries on a regular basis and I would like to see a few faces pop in now and then, even if just to say hello.

I look forward to working with you/for you in 2014 Yours sincerely, Sergeant Andrew De’Voreaux

Nordic Walking!

The exercise for health, body and mind

Nordic Walking is an outdoor activity for every age and fitness level. It is easy to learn, great for your joints and back.

Tones the whole body and is affordable, sociable and fun.

Do you like to master the Nordic Walking technique and participate in fitness walks in the beautiful surroundings of Surrey?

Book a Free Taster Session!

Take a 4 weeks Beginner’s Course Join our “WalkFit” Surrey Nordic ! Walking Group on www.meetup.com Bea Zomer

Nordic Walking Instructor 0758 149 37 24 beata.zomer@yahoo.com www.walkfitnordic.com

52

Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers

Re giste r e d wit h t he

Home Care Services Ltd

A Comprehensive Range of Care Services •

Live-in Car e - Throughout Su rrey - 24 hour care an d/or compan ionsh ip

• Per son al Car e - t oilet ing, bat hing, dressing • “Pop - In” Service • Night Sl eeper an d Waking Night St aff - providing reassuran ce/night care • Household Dut ies - shopping, hou sework • M eal Preparat ion • End of Life Car e For a free professional assessment of your personal needs, please call us on 020 8393 7117

51 The Broadw ay - St onelei gh - Epsom - Surrey - KT17 2JE Office 9.00am - 5.00pm Tel: 020 8393 7117 - Fax: 020 8393 5535 Email: classichomecare@bt connect .com Websit e: www.classichomecareservices.co.uk To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

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Index to advertise call 020 8336 2915 Accounting

DGAS

47

Beauty

Counsellling & Hypnotherapy

Opticians

R Woodfall 30

Brett Hinson 20

Lisa’s Body Patrick 40 Shaping 15 Stella Warriner Counselling 40

Care

Abbeyfield Wendover House 14 Classic Home Care 53 GES Care 45 Home Instead 39 Mascot 26 Nail Cutting 50 True Blue Nurses 48

Car hire, maintenance & repair Andy’s Autos 18 Elmwood Vehicles 50 K&P Tyres 9

Carpets & Flooring Carpets 4 U

2

Kiddies Republic

44

Children

Cleaning services

Bits and Bobs

49 Ovenclean 52

Computing

Megabyte 8

Education

Nescot 23 The Study School 25 Westbury House 6

Food & Drink

The Brook 56

Funeral Directors Evershed Brothers

32

Best Price Beds Hamseys matresses

9 25

Epsom Coaches

37

Furniture and Beds Holidays

Home, gardening, decorating

Able2Build 31 Cypress Gardening 13 Elegant Curtains 33 Greg Building Services 18 PE Contractors 2 Robinson & Son painters & decorators 43 RJ Trees 48 TSD Building 5

Kitchens, bathroom & plumbing Andy Reeve Plumber Bathroom Refurbishment Dreamdoors Kitchens Smith & Byford

54

Pets

Cats at Home

19

Picture Frame Warehouse

42

Fresh Printing

38

Picture Frames Printing

Property

Browns 28 Jackson Noon 51

Repairs

Suddies 16

Shopping

Tudor Williams Unilet Sound & Vision

Sport and Leisure

55 10

King George Indoor Bowls Club 24 Royal British Legion 24 Thai Chi 36 Walkfit 52

Windows

Cheam Windows 17 Kingsbridge Local 22 Warmlite 12

19 34 46 41

Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers

E N L SA W O NO

Chill at the touch of a switch.

Turn on

Tune in

Lay back

RHINE from himolla’s Cumuly range, for exceptional style and relaxation.

Lean back and luxuriate in sumptuous leather and discover perfection is as easy as pushing a button.

For great Winter Sale savings visit Tudor Williams, your local department store New himolla showroom now open Tudor Williams Ltd, 53-59 High Street, New Malden, Surrey KT3 4BU

Tel: 020 8942 2277 • www.tudorwilliamsltd.co.uk To advertise email jenny@wplife.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

55

Sunday Nights Quiz Night 8.30pm

Come and visit us!

VALENTINES MENU • 3 COURSES FOR £25 CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR MENU DETAILS

BOOK NOW

PUB HOURS: Sunday to Thursday 12 noon til 11pm • Friday & Saturday 12 noon til 1am

RESTAURANT HOURS: Monday to Friday 12 noon til 3pm, 6 til 9:30pm Saturdays noon- 9:30pm • Sundays 12 noon til 6:00pm

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www.thebrookworcesterpark.co.uk / 0208 337 6891 Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers 181 Central Road, Worcester Park, KT4 8DR