Worcester park life june 15 by jenny stuart

Worcester Park Life

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June 15 issue 83

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Dear Readers

Birthdays! Love ‘em or hate them…..? I know the jury’s out for many of us as we tick off another year notched up on the calendar but I have to say, I’ve always seen birthdays as an opportunity to celebrate and throw a party. What’s age afterall? It’s just a number! So, having organized everyone else’s celebrations in the family in the last couple of months I’m delighted to say that I already have my mid-summer birthday party planned – and have even sourced, although not quite purchased, what I would like to be opening on the day!! Have I told you before that I share my birthday with not only my best friend from, Glasgow who I used to work with (that was always a pretty good celebration in our department!) but also my father in law in Ireland? What are the chances of that! George Michael and Ricky Gervais too and I can actually remember what I was doing the year it was the turn of actress Sheridan Smith to be born – of dear, that makes me feel absolutely ancient. As Spring starts to merge its way into summer, I think we’ve all been enjoying the bursts of really lovely weather lately – no more so than on the day of our annual school May Fair last weekend (16 May). For once, we were delighted that the weather forecasters had got it so wrong and by mid-morning it was absolutely gorgeous and baking hot. Who’d have thought to smoother themselves in sun tan lotion before heading off to the fair (and it therefore wasn’t surprising how many pink faces we saw around New Malden on Sunday!) And whilst planning the weather was out of our hands….it’s not rocket science to work out that when the temperatures soar, so too do the sales of ice creams and Pimms! What a great day it was –raising lots of money for our school through the PTA but also a real pleasure to be opening our doors to many other members of the local community who came along to our first ever ‘Dog Show’ and then later on, to listen to bands and local musicians for the “festival” part of our day. I really hope that those of you with fairs taking place during June are as lucky with the weather and that you also raise loads of funds for your schools and local groups. Look forward to catching up with you all next month. Until July , best wishes

Jenny

We also publish The Village Voice covering the KT3 postcode

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

Contact jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk 020 8336 2915 www.maldenmedia.co.uk Malden Media Limited 36 Rosebery Avenue, KT3 4JS

Next copy deadlines: 17th June for Julys’ editions 17th July for August’s

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Here at TFG we cater for every building service you may require Please contact our dedicated friendly team for a free estimate or any advice you may need. All of our teams of tradesmen are specialists in their own field. Domestic and Commercial work welcome - We hope we can be of service to you. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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Worcester Park History

Born in a stable by David Rymill

This month we look at the early years of a congregation that is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. Today Worcester Park Baptist Church has a fine complex at the foot of The Avenue – a church opened in 1958 and halls built in 1970 and 1989 – but the congregation can claim to have been ‘born in a stable’ and its story begins in Longfellow Road. The congregation’s founder was Frederick Lewis Baldwin. In 1875, as he recorded in his memoirs, published in 1893, “although born in the year 1848, I did not know who Jesus Christ was… I supposed Him to have been some good man who had lived and done good in his day.” As a young man he had spent some time as an actor, and in one play “I wore the garb of a Minister, and a few words of scripture were put into my mouth; but… I recognised them not, as I afterwards did, to be my Father’s words, and words of life unto the believer.” Having previously been an upholsterer, he had opened a successful coffee house in the East End of London. One Sunday evening he went to hear the American preachers Moody and Sankey, and started reading the Bible. His struggle for faith led to a night of prayer, during which he finally felt “such a calm”. Some time afterwards, when visiting relatives in Epsom, “One day… we arrived at a village, and I exclaimed ‘…it is like being fifty miles away in the country…’ ‘It is called Worcester Park,’ said my brother-in-law.” He felt called to make his home in Worcester Park, and to open a general stores on the corner of Longfellow Road. Initially he attended the Methodist chapel in Longfellow Road, and soon started a Sunday School, beginning with four children, and raised the numbers to forty; he also began preaching. In 1889 he decided to start a Bible class at home, but with 40 people wanting to attend, he decided

Mr Baldwin with his wife Anna (centre), daughter Elizabeth Baldwin and son-in-law Albert Fiddyment (top) and daughter Ada Fiddyment (front), c.1925.

to utilise some land he owned adjoining his house. It was partly occupied by a dairy which had been let as a stable, and he dreamt how it could be transformed, with blue paint on the walls and doors, into a mission hall. He opened it on New Year’s Day 1890. On Good Friday a large tent was installed “outside the stables, for a Gospel service, and we had our first tea meeting in the room… But oh, what a scene. The numbers of people that came… The helpers were completely packed – or rather wedged in – and could only obtain provisions by reaching out at arm’s length, from one to the other, over the people’s heads. But everybody was so happy.” Soon he drew up plans for a 48-foot permanent hall. Despite the estimated cost of £400, he went ahead in faith, and started amassing building materials. At a sale of surplus materials, he found wood of the exact size he needed for the roof, together with glass, mouldings and nails. On another occasion he bought a three-sided oak-and-mahogany structure, formerly a counting-house in a shop, which could

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be opened out to partition off part of the hall –for just 11 shillings. The new hall was built around the old one, which was demolished the day after the last service on Whit Sunday. Services began in the new hall the following week, without a roof or floor. In August it was finished, having cost under £200; four people had been converted at services in the half-built structure. The official opening services were held on 12-13 Oct 1890, and within two years there were 44 members. Maurice Upperton recalled Mr Baldwin, in the 1920s, as a great orator: “People hung on every word he said because he spoke with such inner conviction.” The chapel was originally undenominational but, after his death in 1930, it became a Baptist Church as he had wished. Jean Gathercole recalls the Longfellow Road chapel as it was in her childhood: “The platform had steps at one end; there was a patterned iron railing across the front, and in the middle a wooden rostrum. The room at the back was used for mid-week meetings. Another door led to a very small scullery; here sandwiches were prepared for social occasions – and of course large teapots for all those cups of tea! The Primary Sunday School met in the back room; there was no electricity and the gaslights were lit with a long pole. “I duly went up to the main school where we sat in circles, each with a teacher. When the Anniversary was coming along Charlie Watkins came to teach us new hymns. It was a special occasion and we all wore our best dresses and a buttonhole. We had Sunday School parties, and an outing to the sea by corridor train.” As the local population increased, the congregation outgrew the chapel between 6 and 8 Longfellow Road, so they bought land at the foot of The Avenue. Years passed before this could be used, because during the Second World War Surrey County Council requisitioned the land for a day nursery, but in 1951 it was released, and the prefabricated nursery building became a church, until the new church was built.

A number of 125th anniversary events have been planned for this month, including a half day of prayer, a small exhibition of church life, a barn dance, and at 10.30 am on Sunday 7th June, a service of celebration of 125 years of worship, witness and service. As a service to the community of Worcester Park, members of the current church in The Avenue tend the flower bed at the junction of Malden Road and The Avenue for Kingston Council. A cross is temporarily erected and decorated with flowers on Easter Day in celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The colour picture shows this, with part of the current church building in the background (photograph by Richard Johnson, 2015). David Rymill David.Rymill1993@alumni.aber.ac.uk (020) 8330 6563

Worcester Park, Old Malden and North Cheam: History at our Feet Published in 2012 and available at £10 (plus £2 towards postage if required) from the Rymill family. Ring 020 8330 6563 for more details. This 300-page book tells the story of Worcester Park from the Iron Age to the present day, and includes memories of local life from 1908 onwards, and over 150 maps, photographs and drawings mostly never published before.

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T W I S T E D D O U G H B A F R V R V Z V F£75 S Tworth Y O Cof C P E P P E R O N I T J L I E Just complete the word search and the form Dominos vouchers! below and hand it into Dominos 119 Central U L T U P G Z K A C U K C C ral Road, Road, Worcester Park by 30th June 2015. L and S T U F F E D C R U S T er Park, 8DY will be drawn at K TheKT4 winner random urs informed by Dominos. J F V J O Q M R Z H A N K P , 7 days a week T W I S T E D D O U G H B A L L S Q A R R C Y F X Q S T E N I W VI R S VT ZE V D F D S O T U Y G O H C B C A FL NL JS FT R X W N E T F P V O Q Q I C N itions for Pizza Legend apply, see Boring Legal Stuff at www.dominos.co.uk R P V P R E V R Z O V N F S O C C SF Z N IJ PF E I TT JY L I E M T F H K P Y T Z P T O K E 1pp Port C3 Legends 1 P Advert PPark.indd E G R O K N AI C T UJ KL CI C E A S20/04/2015 Z KI22:09 U LE - Worcester TP U P Z D A M G T P Z A U R H R W E A U LL ST T U U P F G FZ E K D A C C R U U K S C T C Y A Q DW K K B I F V E M X B K X Z F F P S JT O U Q F M F R E Z D H C A R N U K S PT X Y S Q W JK FL V S M F T N O C D R P J D Q G P V RJ C O Y Q F M X R Q Z S H TA E N N K P X E S C S QJ AF R I E Y H N T P H W Y W F Q A V L QW A N R E R T C FY PF V X O Q Q S Q T E N NI X E S E JC X I C B B N Z K E O T H Q A B B E X W N H E KT PF Y P TV Z O P Q T Q OI K C E N R X JS PJ M T F C H I C K E N T I K K A P I MM T G F T H P K ZP A Y U T R Z H P R T W O E K A E S R HJ W P A X J Z I X S J L C F B V Q B A M G VT E P M Z X A B U K R X H Z R W A O S Y H M W B I F F FE P C H I C K E N S T R I P P E B FI TF N V O E C M D X R B P K JX D Z Q F G F P P A O KY D M M M H F N T T N P O H CW D Y RW P FJ Q D A Q V G LP O A G K Q D Y Y B H N N ZT K P Cheese H O W TY H WQ F A Q B A B V EL X O X G K Q B E Chicken Strippers B H B N Z K K E E N O TT H Q K A A B P B E K C I C I K I ZX ZX A Chicken Tikka Pizza C JH ZI C K S E JN LT CI FK B K V A Q P BI U Z AZ A X I X I Mighty Meaty X HJ Z X E S NJ SL T C R F B V P Q E B R U S A ZI C I CI K I P Pepperoni C H I C K E N S T R I P P E R S Z

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Shadbolt Park ‘s Big Day Out Shadbolt Park ‘s ‘Big Day Out’ will take place in Shadbolt Park and Paddock, Salisbury Road, Worcester Park on Saturday 20th June between 12noon and 4.30pm. A fair has been held at Shadbolt Park for over 70 years and this year includes a dog show, live music, cream teas, beer tent, bouncy castle and various stalls. If you are interested in having a stall please contact Ann Turner on 8330 4296 or email cuddingtonra@gmail.com. Protogem Dance Troupe, GBMAA Martial Arts Display, Ashley School of Performing Arts and FiestsFitness are a few of the acts lined up for the display during the Big Day Out. MP Chris Grayling is expected to present local scout leader Matthew with a Leading person in Cuddington Award along with the opening of our new children’s playground equipment in Shadbolt Park. Dog Show event starts at 1.30pm and dogs should be registered by 12.30pm on the day. The Day Lily Garden will also be open for the afternoon. Surrey County Councillor, Eber Kington, will be helping to MC the event along with local Cuddington

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One of our readers was kind enough to share his thoughts regarding changes we could make to the layout of our updates to increase their readability. We are always looking at ways that we can improve everything we do and any feedback is always invaluable. So what do you think? If you find this new format easier to read let us know. Similarly if you have a question or topic you would like us to cover in our updates, just drop us a quick line and we will do our best to comment in a future update.

We are regularly asked to point out properties which will yield a 40% annual yield, another much quoted and often misunderstood headline figure. We are now being asked about the 20 year figure quoted last month as investors chase those returns. Will they be achievable?

There is a rule of thumb that property prices double every 7-10 years. It was broadly true throughout the last century but the last 10 years, with a period of recession, firmly bucked that trend. Whether that means there is a permanent shift in the rule is imTURBOCHARGED INVESTMENTS Last month a report was published stating possible to say. buy-to-let investors made 1,390% returns Property prices are above their previous over the last 20 years. By any standards 2007 high having sunk to a low in 2009. thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a healthy return and in a sense it is Last year saw a significant rebound after correct provided you adopt certain assump- which prices have edged up for some proptions. However it contrasts starkly with a re- erty types and plateaued for others. port six months earlier estimating that up to Currently the market is buoyant with signifihalf of landlords break even or run at a loss. cant numbers of buy-to-let investors but As with all statistics there is a truth in there property investment is not without risk or somewhere between the two reports. trouble free. Interest rates will rise eventualOne very important factor in calculating the ly, tenancy legislation will be amended and stellar return above is that the original in- some landlords may well experience difficulvestment was made in 1996, the year Buy ties if they overstretch themselves. to-let mortgages became available. It turns It is likely, given prices in London, the exout that was an excellent year to have made panding population and probable improvesuch a purchase. You would have done very ments to the infrastructure in the Epsom arwell until late 2007 after which values fell ea, that prices will increase. The level of debefore recovering fully in 2014. sire to own rather than rent, interest rates, Coincidentally 1996 was also the year Steve the political landscape and the economy will Jobs returned to Apple. Investors clever dictate when and how quickly that happens. enough to invest in Apple shares at that Good information is key to any decision you time have seen a 12,000% return over the make and we are always happy to share our last 20 years dwarfing the Buy-to let return. decades of experience to help our clients.

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Ruth Jemmett Writes Time for lawnmowers and barbecues Ruth Jemmett Delights In The Month Of The Summer Solstice It’s summer here at last in Salisbury Road. After weeks of false starts we can now get those lawnmowers oiled and put those sun umbrellas up. That all sounds rather active, so perhaps we should chill out and remember the words of the poet James Dent: “A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawnmower is broken”. !!! (I would like to add “And people don’t light bonfires!”. As we venture into our gardens again perhaps now is a time to reflect on the choices we made in the recent General Election. When I was younger I used to stay up late at night watching the television, and got excited about which way the famous political ‘Swingometer’ would go. This time round, just as the results were coming in, I yawned and went to bed, happy in the knowledge that however agitated people were getting about the outcome, England, like Old Man River, would ‘just keep rolling along.’ Perhaps my laid back attitude is a symptom of getting older, or perhaps it is acceptance of the fact that the more things change the more they stay the same. Our country, for all its faults, usually hangs on to its moral core and sense of decency, whichever political party is in power. Each time I attend a hospital appointment I give thanks for our health service that is the envy of the world, however much criticism it receives. Also, as I watch children going past my door towards their schools every day, I reflect on the fact that a little Indian girl called Komal, who I support through a charity, can only go to school because I fund her uniform and necessary equipment. Our country may have a weird voting system, but by and large we should appreciate how well things are run, whichever party is in power - well - most of the time anyway! By the way, I recently realised that I am old enough to be Nigel Farage’s mother! What a thought! The last few weeks have been an interesting time for ‘royalty watchers’. I was one of the saddos who stayed glued to the television all day, awaiting the

birth of Princess Charlotte. Whether or not you are a royalist, you have to admit that it is always uplifting to welcome a child into the world, and along with many others I got a warm fuzzy feeling when the birth was announced. (Or it could just have been a side-effect of the tea I was glugging back as the day wore on!). This month is a particularly royal one, as it will be the birthday of The Duke of Edinburgh on the 10th June. It is hard to believe that he was born in 192l, as he seems to be as active as ever. Also, the official birthday of H.M. The Queen is on 14th June, which is traditionally marked by the ceremony of Trooping The Colour on 13th June. This is, of course the month when the world-famous Derby is run at nearby Epsom. It was formerly run on the first Wednesday in June, but now takes place on the following Saturday. It is named after the 12th Earl of Derby who inaugurated the event in 1780, who had no way of knowing that this once

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little local race would become famous worldwide. I particularly remember the excitement of Derby Day in 1953 - the year of The Queen’s Coronation. (Yes folks - I really am that old I’m afraid ….). I was seven at the time, and had a grandmother who ‘liked a flutter’ on the horses. In that particular year the jockey Gordon Richards was knighted at his 28th attempt. There’s determination for you! There was much merrymaking in my family as my grandmother celebrated choosing the right horse and rider! My extended family would often attend Derby Day, and also Derby Sunday, a few days beforehand. A giant funfair dominated the scene alongside sideshows of all descriptions. I was always too nervous to have my fortune told by ‘Gypsy Lee’, but my late mother did, and the reading was frighteningly accurate! The Summer Solstice on 21st June will mark the half-way point in the year, when in places such as Norway and the northernmost parts of the British Isles, there is little full darkness at night. It is the date when some people gather at Stonehenge in the West Country to welcome the sunrise. The origin of this gathering is lost in the mists of time, with various experts suggesting that the famous stones were aligned in such a place for the purpose of sun worship or astronomical calculations. As an avid astronomer I rather prefer the theory that they were put there by aliens! Although the 2lst is Solstice time, the 24th is often described as Midsummer Day. It is the time of the year when we can enjoy June roses. I have various varieties in my garden, some of which have glorious perfumes. I often think that it is a shame that such beautiful flowers have such dangerous thorns on them. I have got in the habit of buying roses that have meaningful names to commemorate special people in my life that I have lost. Each time I pass ‘Sheila’s Perfume’ I recall a dear aunt of mine, and when I touch ‘Ballerina’ I am reminded of my late grandmother (yes, the one who loved to have a bet!) who ran a theatrical school. Dear old Robert Burns immortalised this month with his words: When times are tough you have to shout about your business

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O my love’s like a red, red rose That’s newly sprung in June O my love’s like the melodie (sic) That’s sweetly played in tune”. My garden has been a hive of activity lately, with many foxes visiting us, not to mention a large hedgehog. My renovated pond would probably delight David Attenborough. My fish are lively, my newts are very much in evidence, and I recently took a ‘photo of two frogs mating. I decided not to show it to you dear reader, in order to protect your feelings! The greenhouse is burgeoning with cuttings, and the geraniums that I have overwintered are now screaming out to be put in the garden. I had better get on with things, as after the Solstice, the nights start drawing in again!!! Whatever else you forget this month, DON’T forget Father’s Day on 21st. Yes, I know he hogs the remote control, and can get grumpy, but he’s the only one you’ve got! Ruth Jemmett is a Member of The Society of Authors

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Recipe Barbecued rack of ribs Serves: 4 Ready in: 1 hour

Pre-cooking ribs in a pan of simmering water before placing them on the barbecue will ensure meltingly tender meat every time. This method also saves space on the barbecue as the final cooking time with the sauce is much shorter. Serve with a spicy chunky tomato salsa, if liked. 2-3 racks of pork ribs (see Tip) 6 tbsp tomato ketchup 3 tbsp maple syrup 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tbsp sunflower oil 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 1-2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed Place the ribs in a large pan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil then skim off any scum from

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the surface of the water. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer gently for 45 minutes. Meanwhile, place the rest of the ingredients in a pan and bring to the boil. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Leave to cool. Remove the racks from the pan and drain on a board lined with kitchen paper. Leave to cool for 5 minutes then brush each rack liberally with some of the sauce. Cook the ribs on the edge of a hot barbecue for 1015 minutes, turning and basting with any remaining sauce until the ribs are lightly charred in places. Alternatively, the ribs can be cooked under a medium preheated grill. TIP Most large supermarkets sell racks of ribs or ask your local butcher to prepare them for you. Single ribs will work just as well (youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need about 2kg in weight), just reduce the simmering time to about 25 minutes.

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History Golden Years – Memories of 50 years ago By Ted Bruning

Quite a few middle-class breakfasts must have been ruined when the newspapers of 11th June 1965 were opened. For the news was truly shocking. The Beatles were to receive MBEs in the Birthday Honours List! It’s difficult at this distance – and almost impossible for people who weren’t around at the time – to realise what a big deal this was. And if anything it seems comical that so many retired colonels sent their medals back to the Palace in disgust. What blimps these outraged fuddyduddies must have been, we think today; and the apocalyptic language with which they expressed their horror – the Beatles were “vulgar numbskulls”, snarled one; Britain would fall “even deeper into international ridicule and contempt”, howled another; and the word “debased” appeared over and over again – makes them seem even more so. As for the newly-elected Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson, who had put the Fab Four up for their gongs, he was vilified as subverting the honours system and trying to curry favour with the young. But how wrong those criticisms were, for this was not an act of subversion, but of absorption. The Beatles had become hugely successful dollar earners, with nine US number one singles and four US number one albums to their credit so far, as well as the creation of an enormous American market for other British acts; and that made them part of the Establishment and entitled to all the honours that came with it. The Beatles themselves sensed this and seem to have been uneasy over it. John Lennon reportedly worried about being seen as a sell-out and had to be talked into accepting his MBE by Brian Epstein; and the Lovable Moptops famously tried to make a pantomime of their investiture that October, turning up in John’s psychedelic Rolls-Royce, wearing unconventional suits, smoking a joint in the Palace loos (later and rather unconvincingly denied), and trying (and failing) to banter with the Queen.

Four years later John confirmed that he had never been happy with the whole business when he returned his medal – without a trace of irony! – in protest at Britain’s involvement in the Vietnam and Biafran wars. So perhaps it was the shocking headlines of 11th June 1965 and the events that followed that spurred the Beatles into escaping from the curse of light entertainment – of Saturday morning children’s TV shows, of guest slots on Lulu (or, worse, a show of their own), of Royal Command Performances, of touring unto exhaustion. Once “Help!” was finished later that year they put the three-minute love-songs (albeit the superior and beautifully crafted three-minute love-songs) of the first half of the career behind them and started exploring their talent in earnest. And then Brian Epstein died; and although his death was tragically untimely (and although he was no showbiz monster to compare with the likes of Larry Parnes or Simon Cowell) it did finally complete the process that had started at Buckingham palace of freeing the Beatles from the light entertainment treadmill that had ruined so many of their great contemporaries – notably Dusty Springfield – and left them with nothing to do but create. So perhaps, ultimately, we have Harold Wilson to thank for The White Album, Abbey Road, and Let It Be. • Happy 50th birthdays to Damien Hirst (7th), Elizabeth Hurley (10th), and Garry Pallister (30th). Cake and botox to you all!

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View from the City

by Justin Urquhart Stewart

The Battle for the Three Unions It may sound like something out of a Tolkien story but the Prime Minister is now, as a result of his dramatic election victory last week, very likely to be facing some key battles but on three different fronts. The first Union which will be getting a lot of attention over the next few months, is that of the European Union and the promised referendum which may be heading towards us earlier than previously expected. This over recent years has been casting a long shadow over the future of the UK economy as potential overseas investors have held back on decisions to invest within the UK on the basis that “in a couple of years you could be outside the tariff wall”. Now of course there are many arguments to and fro about what the UK economy might look like outside the Union, but that really isn’t the issue for many such overseas companies. They see the largest trading block in the world and therefore don’t want to take the risk of finding themselves outside it. As far as they are concerned they see no reason why they should take any further investment risk, so the longer we wait and the longer we dither, the more reasons we give for others to go elsewhere. It is not so much whether your view is pro or anti, but rather the need to just finally make up our minds! So a referendum is likely to be sooner rather than later, but of course that will depend upon any deal that the Prime Minister can get with our EU partners. This then directly leads us to the second Union battle, and that of course is the battle for the Union of the Conservative party. From a small cabal of Mr Major’s now often quoted “bastards” back in 1993, it is understood that the fervent anti EU members have grown quite significantly in numbers. Although a couple crossed the floor over to UKIP, only one, Douglas Carswell, survived the election, with Mr Reckless no doubt regretting his somewhat “reckless” decision to have jumped ship too early. Now however the anti-European Conservative MPs will be sharpening their teeth as they will no doubt have realised their potential power with such a modest Commons majority. From some with reasoned views, to others described as “swivel eyed loons”, they have the opportunity to make the Prime Minister’s euphoria dissipate all too quickly into a repeat of

the horrors that the Major administration suffered - even though he had a larger majority. These members are in effect UKIPLite, and may mean that Mr Cameron may have to rely upon others for any more pro-European stance if any vote is to be won in the House regarding anything to do with the EU. Some have compared this potential split in the Tories to the actual schism that occurred under Sir Robert Peel and the repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846. As a conservative Prime Minister Sir Robert Peel was only able to achieve the repeal with the support of the opposition Whigs in Parliament, but in the process had to overcome the opposition of most of his own party - resulting in it being riven for some years. Many critics said he was a traitor to the Tory cause, or “a Liberal wolf in sheep’s clothing” because his final position reflected more “liberal” ideas. Is Mr. Cameron the new Sir Robert Peel? Then we come to the battle for the third Union, and that of course is the Union of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The virtual annihilation of the opposition parties north of the Border was an

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astonishing result. However with a “plaid wash” across the nation, this is going to create a high level of expectations amongst the enthused voters. Populism is a dangerous partner as this year’s adored idol can easily become next year’s false god. Now Ms. Sturgeon has another election to win in 2016, and no doubt she would like to carry the wave of nationalism into that vote as well. However as true devolution starts to ensure that with financial expenditure comes financial responsibility, as tax raising powers mean that the voters will realise that the tax is being ordered, raised and levied by Holyrood and no longer by Westminster. The current situation means though that for the moment the Nationalists rule the roost north of the border, and thus it is for the Prime Minister to tread carefully to ensure that the Union is not to be lost. At some stage there will be another referendum, but hopefully by then the realism that falling oil values and falling carbon fuel production is making a fully independent Scottish nation, although still a viable state, a financially far weaker one than as part of the Union. It is to be hoped that time can take the emotion out of such a sensitive issue and ensure that economic value and logic overcomes misplaced populist pride - a clearly different stance from the

pride of a nation with a great history and a great future. Behind all of this though we should also remember that David Cameron has previously announced that this was going to be his final term as Prime Minister. The effect of this won’t necessarily be immediate but rather as the weeks pass his influence as leader will ebb away as future power masters in the party start to vie for support in the upcoming leadership campaign. This will mean that he will increasingly become a lame duck leader with even less control over any of the “revolting” members of his party. It reminds me of a line from the musical Evita - “dice are rolling, knives are out, would-be presidents are all about”. This won’t be a pretty sight especially as the Tories don’t have a good reputation for such changes - there will be much bickering and bitching in the Junior Common Room. 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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Toys and Games 1. What toy would you need to perform tricks called walk the dog and the cat's cradle? 2. Which game has a name that is derived from a Swahili word meaning "to build"? 3. Named toy of the year for 1998 by the British Association of Toy Retailers, which electronic toy would speak its own language initially before gradually starting to speak more and more English? 4. What colour are the hotels in a standard game of Monopoly? 5. First introduced in the 18th century, what type of puzzles were named after the tool that was used to make them? 6. In which game might you visit Lemonade Lake, Chocolate Mountains, Minty Meadow and Easter Bunny Hills? 7. Which of Andy's toys in the Toy Story films wears a black bowler hat? 8. In a standard game of Battleship, how many ships do you have to sink to win? 9. Which American toy company was founded in 1945 by Harold Matson and Elliot Handler? 10. What is the only non-metallic murder weapon in the game of Cluedo?

AWARENESS RASING:

Private fostering Private fostering is an arrangement whereby a child under the age of 16 years (or 18 if they are disabled) is looked after for 28 days or more in any one year by someone other than a close relative. Local authorities have a legal requirement to satisfy themselves that such children are safeguarded and their welfare promoted. This is done by offering support and guidance, undertaking assessments and checks and making regular visits to the child and carer. The Kingston fostering serviceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; focus this year has been to continue to raise awareness of private fostering amongst all agencies that may encounter a privately fostered child (such as schools, doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; surgeries, sports clubs and so on) so that children who are being cared for in this way are identified. If you think you may know of such an arrangement then give our local SPA team a call who will give further advice: Tel: 0208 547 5004

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Find out about fostering for Kingston Find out about fostering for Kingston

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Events V.E. Sunday by Margaret Picot

A few weeks of panic preceded the great day, especially when it came to communication on-line! Weather beautifully springlike, couldn’t have been better. My daughter, Caroline, accompanied me (“carer/chaperone” they said. I said she was a “guest” - I didn’t need caring for, yet!). We’d taken a taxi to New Malden station and another from Waterloo: why not make it special? It’s true, we had quite a way to walk, and - as can be imagined - security was very strict. (By the way, Central Hall let us use their loos!) In the Abbey, I was asked where we’d like to sit, and I said “Must be opposite the band, please” (Welsh Guards). The Queen, the Duke and their sons were there - surprisingly, without the Duchesses. There were many politicians, just finished or just starting. At one point, reading the extensive programme, I whispered to Caroline “I think the Queen must be ill ‘cos she’s not here...”. “You had your head down in the hymns and missed her!” Panic over. It was unusual to see Her Majesty in unfamiliar dark clothing.

Several young people did readings - which was quite touching - including Zoe Churchill, who gave a suitably strong, clear interpretation. A wonderful Marine band led the parade outside the Abbey, followed by a pipe band. I was amazed - and gratified - to see so many people had turned out to see us: clapping, waving, cheering, many holding Union Flags (half of which were the wrong way up!). I waved throughout the whole walk to St. James’s Park, even

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eliciting a cheer at one point (much to Caroline’s embarrassment), and thanked everyone on duty who was within earshot - even the Guards at strict attention. It was a really wonderful experience. The three other ex-Wrens from my Kingston Branch, plus one daughter, were soon lost to us in the crowds - not to be seen again that day. In Horseguards, Prince Charles and the Duchess stood on a small podium - completely isolated - smiling. Nobody seemed to think of bowing or curtseying; We passed the Duchess first -, I smiled and said “Hello” ... didn’t seem to take much notice of Charles in my excitement; but Caroline told me later that he’d put out his hand to shake mine but I was looking away (off to the Tower with her!). Three journalists cornered Caroline and me - one was from the Legion and one from a Chinese publication. We all tottered into the large marquee, blue-carpeted, decorated with “VE” pennants; with round tables covered with white cloths, each for eight; and at our leisure we collected small picnic “hampers” - sturdy, covered with faux wickerwork and decorative braid and handles. These contained a splendid selection of foods: choice of sandwich, pork pie, frittata, mixed salad, lemon cake, fruit and cream trifle; together

with a bottle of water, refresher pad, knife and fork, large, sturdy table napkin. Soft drinks and wine, tea and coffee were available. To top it all, each hamper contained a commemorative medal. All in all, a good show. (Incidentally, there were some extremely good ‘loos’!) Many stories were exchanged. The day was, of course, all devised by the wonderful British Legion. Incidentally, generous travelling expenses are to be given. At about 4 p.m everyone was ready to leave. I had reminded Caroline - as if it was necessary - that I, a born Londoner, have no sense of direction; and that the return journey was likely to be fraught! And so it was - simply getting to some public transport was stressful. We asked nearly every police officer we could see (and I’d never seen so many on duty), to which we received assorted answers: Of course, many would’ve been drafted in from afar - and I know from my experience in the Met. that it can be difficult! But we made it to Westminster underground eventually, jostling with the hordes. The daughter had a card of some sort, and I, the wonderful Freedom Pass. Although I did, once again, mess things up because on the bus from New Malden station I told her what the fare would be, forgetting that cash is not accepted now! Unfortunately, we happened to have one of the few miseries driving the bus - and I forget how she managed in the end. To be honest, I was fairly exhausted - I think we both were. But what a wonderful day it had been..... I said to some old chaps “See you again in ten years”! I hope Caroline thinks it was worth her travelling from Chester by public transport, for it: She seemed to

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

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“The pupils’ overall success is a result of highly Tel: 020 8942 0754an outstanding effective teaching, Email: info@thestudyschool.co.uk www.thestudyschool.co.uk Tel: 020 8942 Website: 0754 Email: www.thestudyschool.co.uk estu curriculum 5 7info@thestudyschool.co.uk T h e t f o r d R o a d , and N eWebsite: w M a wide l d e n K T 3 extra-curricular 5DP 5 7experience, T h e t f oT r d R o a d , N e as w M awell l d e n K Tas 3 5 D the P pupils’3 independent preparatory chool for boysexcellent and girls attitudes to learning.” own Schools Inspectorate report aged 3Independent to 11 years.

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What’s On Give blood

Book an appointment by calling 0300 123 23 23 St Philip, Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park KT4 8LG 10th July 10 July 2 to 4.30pm 5.30 to 8pm Sutton, The Thomas Wall Centre, Benhill Avenue, Sutton, Surrey., SM1 4DP 4th June 2 to 4.30pm 5.30 to 8pm St James’s Church Hall, Bodley Road, New Malden KT3 5QE 10 June 2 to 4.30pm 5.30 to 8pm Cheam, North Cheam Sports and Social 658 London Road, North Cheam 5th July

BIG DAY OUT

Join us on Saturday 20th June from noon-4.30pm for THE BIG DAY OUT at Shadbolt Park, Salisbury Road, KT4 7BX. • DOG SHOW • CREAM TEAS • BBQ • LIVE MUSIC • BOUNCY CASTLE • STALLS If you are interested in having a stall please contact Ann Turner 8330 4296 or email cuddingtonra@gmail. com Money raised to benefit local causes www.cuddingtonra.org www.facebook.com/cuddingtonra

Thursday 2nd July - Speaker Pat Hilbert - My Ancestors were Thames Waterman 17 th & 18 th July Friday Evening 6-10pm Saturday Lunch 124pm Families welcome at Lunch time Saturday Evening 6-10pm Over 30 Ales and 1 2 Ciders Visit our website for more details: www.scoutingforbeer.org.uk Food available at all sessions Rowe Hall, Salisbury Road Worcester Park, Surrey, KT4 7DD Organised by supporters of 2 nd Cuddington (Rowe) Scout Group Registered Charity Number: 297571

Gift Market

Gift Market 9th to 13th June at Bourne Hall Ewell Highly recommended.for Quality, Originality & Value. Gifts for You, Your Friends & the Entire Family. Mention” Malden Media “ for discount on purchase . open 10 am to 5 pm ( 7 pm Tuesday) Cafe + Easy & cheep Parking Free Entry

Nonsuch Park

Nonsuch Park is a link to Tudor England. The Palace that once stood here was a hugely expensive symbol of Henry VIII’s power. The Friends of Nonsuch offer guidance to a 7 feet model which has been created from contemporary documentation, paintings and an excavation of the Palace site in 1959. The model

Churches Together in Ewell

Family Fun Day – fun for all ages Dunday 21st June 2-5pm Bourne Gardens KT17 1UF Live music, DJ and comedian Paul Kerensa Bouncy Castle, Pamper and well-being zone Tea Tent, Crafts and Games Please bring a tin for our food bank. All welcome!!

Shadbolt Park Sports Day!

Saturday 4th July 3-5pm 3 per child BYO picnic kids tea Contact: shadboltsportsday@gmail.com Funds raised to renovate children’s play area In association with readtysteadygokids, Cuddingtonr Residents’ Association and Grace Church Worcester Park; www.cuddingtonra.org, www.rsgk.co.uk

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is on display in the Stable Wing of the much later Nonsuch Mansion in the heart of Nonsuch Park. The model is open from 11 am until 3 pm every Sunday in November and December; admission £2.50; cars via Cheam Gate. For further information please visit the website at www.friendsofnonsuch.co.uk

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Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5AL (01372) 742555 / 742227

Sword in the Stone 31 May The Arthurian legends have excited children and adults for centuries. The mystical story of the ‘Sword in the Stone’ follows the life of Arthur, a young squire destined to become king. Guided by Merlin, he has many adventures culminating in him successfully pulling the sword from the stone and unwittingly fulfilling the legend’s prophecy. This show requires the participation of the whole audience as the chorus and 10 children play small parts in the production. With beautiful costumes, enchanting sets and magical puppetry, the audience will be captivated. Continuing Image Musical Theatre’s tradition of providing the very best touring theatre. Soul Man Tour - Andrew Dee 2 June Spirit Medium, Andrew Dee is here to guide you through some of life’s mysteries with help from your loved ones in the spirit world. Let’s Hang On - The Music Of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons 3 June Following huge demand after their performance here last

year, Let’s Hang On returns to take you on a musical journey through the history of one of the most successful bands of all time – Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons! Tim Vine 4 June Tim Timinee Tim Timinee Tim Tim To You First stand-up tour in 4 years, the punslinger returns with lots of new jokes, silly songs and twitchy dancing. Evening of Burlesque 5 June For the very first time ever – the biggest burlesque legends from around the world are united on one stage as Britain’s No1 burlesque show goes global. Martin Litton’s ‘Tribute To Fats Waller’ 8 June John Petters ‘Salute Benny Goodman’ 22 June 2015 Cheryl,Mike & Jay (formerly of Bucks Fizz) 25 June 2015 Early in 1981, four complete strangers sat in the drawing room of a house in Fulham and were told: “you are now Bucks Fizz”. Kast Off Kinks 26 June Not to be missed! The Kast off Kinks are former members of the legendary band ‘The Kinks’, back together to re-live the good times. Superstars28 Jun - 5 Jul Miss Emma is trecking through Puru in April 2015 for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Please read our story at www.justgiving.com/cadastars ANY donations are kindly welcome and appreciated

Cypress Garden Services “A cut above the rest” One Off Tidy-ups Regular maintenance Grass Cutting Hedge Trimming Landscaping Tree Surgery Stump Grinding Strimming and Weeding Path & Patio Washing Garden Waste Removed Japenese knot weed removal advice & action For a free quote call Andrew Cudd

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The Hamptons

midsummer Fiesta Sat 20th June 11am-5pm Mayflower Park the hamptons

grand fina le

s vice ser y c en erg em

in aid of

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Tea Time Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a different number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. 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

23 24

21 20

20 17

24 19 23 25

9 19

10 19

5 4

19 21

26 26

5 23

12 23

22 4

17 4

14 20

4 24

21 1

10 13

14 16

5 19

14 13

13 14

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14 17

Gardening Making a pest of themselves By Pippa Greenwood

They might be small but aphids - widely known as greenfly and blackfly - are one of the most common and widespread garden pests, with more than five hundred different species found in the United Kingdom alone. Greenfly and blackfly vary in colour, from green or black to grey, yellow, pink, brown or kaki. The majority are about 2mm long Most damage is done throughout spring and summer but there are aphids feeding somewhere pretty well throughout the year. In sheltered parts of your garden or in greenhouses and conservatories, some can be found even during the cooler winter months. They can breed rapidly and this is often done asexually or without need of a male. For much of the year females are predominant and give birth to huge numbers of genetically identical offspring.

The symptoms they cause include leaf yellowing or other brightly coloured discolouration, puckering, poor growth and stunting. The plant sap on which the aphids feed has an extremely high sugar content; in fact it is so sugary that the aphids cannot digest it all, so their excreta is very sticky and sugary. This is called ‘honeydew’ and you may have noticed it beneath aphid-infested plants. Because it is so sugary, honeydew attracts harmless but unattractive black ‘sooty moulds’.

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On roses there are several species of aphid which may attack, often forming dense colonies on shoot tips, new leaf growth and flower buds. These aphids are mostly green, pinkish or yellowish in colour and up to 3mm long. If vegetables are more your thing then you may see the black bean aphid as it forms dense colonies especially at the shoot tips and beneath the leaves of broad beans in the spring. If you pinch out the aphidencrusted shoot tips on beans the problem is often solved. Another common one is the woolly aphid which attacks apple trees and is also often seen on ornamental Malus such as crab apples, pyracantha and cotoneaster. Colonies of the aphid covered with white, waxy, fluffy fibres develop on the bark, especially near pruning cuts on older stems, or on younger stems where they also cause swellings on the stem. It is pretty well impossible to garden without aphids causing some grief – the best you can do is to reduce their numbers. Encouraging naturally occurring predators such as blue tits, ladybirds, hoverflies and lacewings will all help. In some situations it is also worth introducing biological controls and these

work especially well in an enclosed area such as a greenhouse or conservatory. Aphid predators such as the larva of the midge Aphidoletes and even ladybirds, can all be purchased, as can the tiny parasitic wasp Aphidius. Ladybirds (available from my website, www. pippagreenwood.com) are perfect for using on aphid outbreaks anywhere in the garden from pots and borders to hanging baskets and hedges. The great thing with these is that, once established they will start to breed and add to the natural ladybird population. There are a number of different chemicals (including organic or ‘green’ ones such as those based on fatty acids or plant oils) available for controlling aphid pests too, but not all are suitable for use on every plant, so check the label carefully before buying or using, and always follow the instructions carefully. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for ladybirds and other biocontrols to control greenfly, Nemaslug, brilliant weeders, pop-up crop covers, copper tape and lots more besides.

Summer Solstice Summer Solstice (sometimes also referred to as Midsummer) falls between June 21st-22nd, and celebrates the longest day and shortest night of the year, the sun reaching its highest point in the northern hemisphere, and the very pinnacle of summer-time. Midsummer is celebrated with a variety of different traditions and celebrations around the world – and indeed around our own country, with parties commonly held from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland to the Cornish coast, and in particular at Stonehenge, where tens of thousands gather every year for an all-day festival, watching the sun rise early on 21st June and celebrating the longest day with everything from quiet observations to full-on festivities. The lighting of bonfires often forms a big part of the culture, celebrating the burning light of the sun and mirroring it, a tradition stemming from pagan and Celtic roots. In addition to having huge Pagan significance, the solstice is relevant too to some branches of Buddhism and those who practice Yoga, in which Sun Salutations often play an important role and the sun is something very much worthy of reverence. The solstice can be explained by the angle of the earth’s axis, the tilt of which is the reason we experience our four seasons each year. When the axis tilts towards the sun during the summer months we know here in the UK, winter is of course in the southern hemisphere, rotating entirely by the time we reach the opposite end of the year. To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

Finance Saving for Children What are the Best Options? By Ann Haldon

Children’s savings accounts provide a great way to build a nest egg for later life, perhaps for driving lessons or to fund a gap year, and are a good way to introduce the subject of money management. Putting some of their pocket money away each week encourages good financial habits, and teaches children the mechanics and rewards of saving - why they might have to wait before they buy something, plus the benefits of gaining compound interest through longterm saving. We look at three savings options below that could be ideal for your child. These are products that incorporate a range of features and benefits, including tax-free status, instant access, and longer savings terms. So let’s start with a product that was first introduced in 2011: Junior ISAs Junior ISAs are available to children under the age of 18 who don’t already have a Child Trust Fund. New legislation has recently been introduced to allow the transfer of monies from a Child Trust Fund into a Junior ISA, however, and this is due to take effect from April 2015. The contribution limit for a Junior ISA is £4,080 for the 2015-16 tax year, and there are two types of account available: • Cash Junior ISA: offering tax-free interest and instant access • Stocks and Shares Junior ISA: cash is invested in stocks and shares, with no tax paid on dividends or capital growth Children are entitled to open one of each of these accounts, and although parents or guardians can open and manage them, the money belongs to the child.

Withdrawals by children are not allowed until they turn 18, but they can manage their own accounts when they reach 16 years of age. The Junior ISA will be in the child’s name, but parents and guardians opening the account are the ‘registered contacts’ as far as the bank or building society is concerned. NS&I Children’s Bonds These are tax-free investments that run for a 5-year term. They can be purchased by a parent, guardian, grandparent or great grandparent on behalf of a child, and each ‘issue’ has its own guaranteed rate of interest which is paid at the end of the term. The minimum investment amount for these Bonds is £25, with £3,000 being the maximum amount allowed per issue. Once the 5-year term is complete, bonds can be rolled over for another term, up until the child is 16 years of age. They can be cashed in early, but doing so attracts a penalty of 90 days’ interest. As with the Junior ISA, the money belongs to the child rather than the parent. Interest is calculated daily and added to the account each year, so that the child also benefits from compound interest. Children’s savings accounts These types of account can be opened with as little as £1, with most bank and building societies offering at least one savings account for children. In most cases money can be withdrawn with no notice. Tax is paid at 20% on children’s savings accounts, but it is normally possible to reclaim the money using Form R40. Better still, use Form R85 to have the interest paid tax-free from the outset. These forms can be downloaded from the HM Revenue and Customs website, or you can pick up an R85 form at the bank or building society holding the account. A note of caution about tax If parents give their child money which subsequently earns interest of more than £100 in a tax year, the money will be taxed as though it belonged to the parent. This rule isn’t applicable to Junior ISAs or Children’s Bonds, however.

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Once a child reaches the age of seven they may be able to manage the account themselves, which is a great way for them to learn how to deal with their money. There are two different types of children’s savings accounts, and you can open more than one: • Easy access: the interest rate will probably be lower with an easy or instant access account, but money can be withdrawn or deposited with no restrictions. These accounts are popular with children as many of them offer free gifts, including piggy banks and toys. • Regular savings: interest rates will be slightly higher for this type of account, but money is not accessible and you need to make regular monthly deposits into the account. If any payments are missed you may suffer a reduction of interest. Which savings account you choose for your child depends on your own circumstances. The Junior ISA has proven to be very popular, and the new legislation regarding transfer of monies from a Child Trust Fund to a Junior ISA opens up the product to more people. If you asked a child which account they would prefer, it’s highly likely that they would choose whichever one offered a free gift. With this in mind, maybe the best solution is to open one account to keep them happy and another that provides a better rate of interest. www.gov.uk/junior-individual-savings-accounts/open-an-account wwww.nsandi.com/childrens-bonds

Care visits at home

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Safer Neighbourhoods Good news & information Here are some recent local incidents that your local teams were involved in. PCSO Detention - Shoplifter in Central Road Worcester Park and Nonsuch PCSO’s Gary Weaving and Nadine Campbell responded to a report of a man shoplifting in Central Road. The suspect was detained by the PCSO’s as he left St Raphael’s Hospice shop. A suitcase that had been linked to the suspect was recovered at the scene and contained over £170 worth of stolen goods from several charity shops. Two PCs arrived and arrested the man. The recovered goods were returned to the shops. Drugs Warrant Local Community help with the fight against drugs; local community officers from Worcester Park and Nonsuch Safer Neighbourhoods Teams carried out a search warrant at an address in Worcester Park. Although only a small amount of drugs was found, this sent out a positive message that the local community don’t want drugs in their area. If you have information about drugs supply in your area please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or contact your local police office on 0208 721 2491. Waitrose Arrests Sgt Andy De’Voreaux, of Worcester Park & Nonsuch Safer Neighbourhoods Teams, organised a series of plain clothes patrols involving Worcester Park and Nonsuch officers over a four day period in Waitrose, Stone Place, Worcester Park, in an effort to discourage shoplifters. On one of the four days, three men were seen to exit the store without paying for goods and after a brief foot chase, two were arrested for shoplifting with one of the males shown wanted for a theft offences in Central London. On a lighter note, we have two new members

to the Worcester Park & Nonsuch Team: PC Dan Filewood & PC Chris Heal. To find out more about us go to our websites: content.met.police.uk/ Team/Sutton/WorcesterPark or content.met.police.uk/Team/Sutton/Nonsuch Contact us If you have any information about the above, or any other crimes, please contact us. Our details are below: Worcester Park Safer Neighbourhood Team Tel: 020 8649 3590 Email: worcesterpark.snt@met.police.uk Nonsuch Safer Neighbourhood Team Tel: 020 8721 2491 Email: nonsuch.snt@met.police.uk If the teams are unavailable and the incident you

WORDWHEEL

Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.

TARGET Excellent: 25 or more words Good: 20 words Fair: 16 words

E V

O J

E B T

I C

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Baking Chocolate Fondant Puddings These divine puds have a wonderful molten chocolate centre which oozes out as you cut into them. Take care not to overcook them and serve immediately otherwise the liquid centres will start to set. Serve with a dollop of tangy crĂ¨me fraiche or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence! Makes: 4 Ready in: 35 minutes 100g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 100g caster sugar, plus extra for sprinkling 100g good quality dark chocolate, broken into pieces 2 large eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract 20g plain flour Mint sprigs, to decorate Few strawberries and chocolate shavings, to serve

5 Leave for a few seconds then turn the puddings out onto serving plates. Decorate with mint sprigs and serve with the strawberries and chocolate shavings. TIP If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have individual pudding basins then use small ovenproof ramekin dishes instead.

Preheat the oven to 200C/180C fan/Gas 6. Lightly grease 4 x 175ml capacity individual pudding basins with the extra softened butter and sprinkle with the extra caster sugar. Place on a baking tray. Place the butter and chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water and leave until melted. Remove from the heat and stir until smooth. Leave to cool for about 5 minutes. Place the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract and flour in a bowl and, using a hand-held electric whisk, beat together until smooth and creamy. Fold in the cooled chocolate mixture and pour into the prepared pudding basins. 4 Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the puddings are risen, puffy and just set on the outside- they should have a slight wobble and still be runny inside.

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R WOODFALL OPTICIANS 159 Central Road, Worcester Park Surrey KT4 8DT

Telephone: 020 8337 2059 OPENING TIMES

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

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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 11th May - Matthew Bason 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 wi.worcesterparkers@gmail.com *There is currently a waiting list. 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 and meet us to see whether this is for you 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

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 7.30-9.30pm 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 over 40 years ago, the Probus Club of Ewell has been attracting businessmen

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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, Bruce Urquhart, on 01737 373 690 or visit our website: 4newmembers.ewell4probus.org.uk

Thursdays

Worcester Park Vegans. For vegans, and all who are interested in learning more about veganism. We meet on the second Thursday of each month in The Den (upstairs) at Christchurch with St Philip, Cheam Common Rd (corner of Ruskin Drive). We aim to start at 7pm and finish by 9pm. If possible please bring vegan food to share ( no meat, fish, eggs, cheese or honey). For more information please ring Wendy Edwards on 07740 082460 or email carol20754@gmail.com or look us up on Facebook. You don’t have to live in Worcester Park to come to our meetings - all who are genuinely interested are welcome. Vegans stand for respect for life - all life, not just human life. We believe in trying to live as gently on the earth as possible and in doing no intentional harm to any living creature. 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://e-voice.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 the Scill Centre 3 Robin Hood Lane Sutton 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 The Worcester Park Hello Club launched last November and is welcoming new members! We meet every Thursday morning from 10am – 12 noon. The club is aimed at anyone who would like to come and join in with board games, quizzes, cards, occasional craft sessions - or just to have a chat and a coffee. Adults of any age are welcome to come and get to know each other. The main aims of the club are: • To meet new people and build friendships • To become involved with the local community • To access activities, information and advice The club is very friendly and informal. Every month there will be a member of staff attending from the SCILL Information & Advice Service – they have information on most topics for all your needs and will be pleased to assist you. The drop in club was set up by Sutton Vision, Christ Church with St Philip and SCILL , working together in partnership. We are fortunate to be provided with a welcoming and comfortable venue at the Christ Church with St Philip Community Hall. There are accessible toilets on site. There is a small charge for coffee and tea at the church café. If you would like to join us, please just turn up, or if you would like to speak to someone, please contact one of the following: SCILL 020 8770 4065 Sutton Vision 020 8409 7166 Christ Church with St Philip 020 8330 7630

Fridays

Bartlett House Residents 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. Contact Dot on 0208 330 2074 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

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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 Worcester Park Womens’ Club. We are part of the National Association of Womens’ Clubs and we meet at Cheam Common Junior School, Kingsmead Avenue every Friday from 7.30 to 9.30 (term time only). We have very interesting speakers, outings, a garden party in the summer and a quiz night rasising money for our chosen charity for the year. Why not come along and give us a try. For more information call Carole on 020 8337 6088.

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 Manor Park, Malden Road. New members will be made very welcome. Roll ups, league matches, internal and external competitions; we offer bowling for all levels of interest and ability. Our open day this year will be on 16 May. For further details contact Men’s Secretary Gerald 020 8949 4623 or Ladies’ Secretary Malden Manor Bowls Club Where: Manor Park, Malden Road. 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 8.15 p.m. - 11 p.m.. Over 18s. £8 Entrance Fee. All standards of dancing. Excellent free parking. Bar. Professional DJ “We may not have Brucie, but we do have a glitter ball!”. Ring David 07903 314276. Friday Nights for 2015: Jan2nd and 16th, Feb 6th and 20th, March 6th and 20th, Apr 3rd and 17th, May 1st and 15th, June 5th and 19th, July 3rd and 17th, Aug 7th, Sept 4th and 18th, Oct 2nd and 16th, Nov 6th and 20th, Dec18th National Trust - Epsom, Ewell and District Supporters

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Dream Doors Kingston A5_Directory 16/04/2012 11:46 Page 1

ST R N NO YLE AN EW W S & GE AV C OF AI OL LA OU BL RS E

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

FIX YOUR DENT, part of the COOMBE COACHWORKS REPAIR GROUP are proud to announce the opening of our new state of the art, smart repair centre in Sutton. If your Chris suffering with minor dents, bumper scuffs and damaged paintwork, headlamps dull and wheel damage then FIX YOUR DENT is just what you need.

standards. Often the costs will be under your insurance excess, and you will not need to make a claim. This safeguards your noclaims discount and renewal costs. Dent repair from £60, Bumper from £20, Panel repair from £150, Alloy wheel repair from £65, Panel polish from £60, headlamp repairs from £54, full car polish £300.

R.J. Tree qualified & profession R.J. Tree Services qualified & professional staffServices are dedicated

Small and medium area repair technology is toyou the levels of service the highest service in every instance. Maybe arehighest a company car driver and in every the most costtoeffective way tolevels removeofthose the vehicle is at the end of its lease, when irritating blemishes and could increase the We are happy give advice – on all you We are happy to give advice – on your arboricultural queries. youall return your vehicle.to You can be charged value of your vehicle. If you are thinking of heavily for damage that has been caused selling, remember that first impressions are due to day to day wear over the lease quotes term. • Free • Free quotes all important. Removing minor damage to are dedicated We are able to inspect the vehicle and your paintwork could not only increase yourNPTC qualified • Fully NPTC qualifie • Fully discuss the best type of repair method . chances of selling, but also the amount you • Tree reductions / c • Tree reductions / crown which will enablethins you to control these costs. get for your car. Our aim is to repair your car cultural queries. • Tree end felling Tree fellingThis can prevent you from expensive of the same day and sometimes while•you wait. lease the hire company. • Stump removal We have a coffee shop on site with•Wi-Stump Fi and removal

tv for you to enjoy while you wait. No job is • Hedgeworks • Hedgeworks Seequalified advert opposite Treethe Services & professional staff are dedicated too big or small and we will aimR.J. to • keep • Tree surveys & rep Tree surveys & reports to highest the highest levels of service in every instance. repairs, costs effective and of the

tree!

We are happy to give advice – on all your arboricultural querie • Free quotes • Fully NPTC qualified R.J. Tree Services qualiﬁed & professional • Tree reductions / crown thins staff are dedicated to the highest levels of service in every instance. • Tree felling Free Quotes • Stump removal Diploma qualiﬁed NPTC licensed • Hedgeworks Tree Reductions / Crown Thins • Tree surveys & reports Tree Felling Stump Removal Hedgeworks Tree Surveys & Reports £10 million insurance liability cover

Look out for the LookOfﬁout for the red tree! ce: 020 8399 0103

J.tree Servi ces, Berrylands, r.J.tree Services, Berrylands, Surbiton 020r. 8399 0103 07980 903 881 Surbiton 020 Mobile: 07980 903881 and videos Visitallour website for information and videos on aspects of our work Visit our website for information info@rjtrees.co.uk LOOK FOR THE RED TREE!

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R.J. Tree Services, Berrylands, Surbiton Visit our website for information and videos on all aspects of our work www.rjtrees.co.uk

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FIX YOUR DENT Have you a scuff on your bumper, scratch on your paintwork? Do you think that getting it fixed is hassle and expensive? At FIX YOUR DENT we have invested in new equipment and staff training to take care of all your cosmetic vehicle repairs, often repairing bumpers where conventional body’s shops would fit a new one costing more money. We can offer a cost effective way of fixing your car making it your pride and joy again , looking the best it can on that school run, or a speedy fix to repair the damage to stop you being the talk of the neighbourhood, with the damage on show to all! So, if you want a speedy cost effective repair solution, come and visit us at FIX YOUR DENT, which is part of the COOMBE REPAIR GROUP We fix scuffs, dents etc 0208 644 8474 32 Kimpton Road, Sutton SM3 9QW

£1 FIX 0 O

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

Pro-fit Window Syst Ltd supply & install DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS DOORS Double Glazed conservatories WINDOW SYSTEMS LTD Windows, Doors an Out with the old, inConservatories with the new!

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We are for an established Transform your home 2015!family run business

on serving householders within the comm Windows * Doors * Conservatories l No High pressure sales persons l No Gimmicks l Genuine quality products at competitive p Pro-fit offer; l A variety of windows to complement any plus triple glazed options. l A full range of doors including our fabulou bi-folds. l A wide selection of conservatory designs. l All our products are of premium quality, B accredited with high specification paying attention to security and insulation. l ‘A’ rated thermal efficiency. l ‘Secure by Design’ high security locking.

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We are an established, family run business serving householders within the community. • • • • • •

Friendly service with no high pressure sales persons Competitive prices Give your home A variety of windows to complement any property, including triple glazed options a new look fornew ‘Suffolk Door’ range A full range of doors including our fabulous Bi-folds and the Summer with our ‘Secure by Design’ high security locking ‘A’ rated thermal efficiency fabulous range of

All our products are of premium quality, BBAwindows, accredited with high specification that pays special attentionconservatories to security and insulation. & Visit our website for an instant doors’ online quote. bi-fold Pro-Fit are proud to support local youth organisations within the community.

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Care As we’re heading into warmer days, we thought we’d share with you top tips for staying cool and hydrated this summer! 10 tips for staying cool & hydrated 1. Don’t spend long periods sitting or working outside during the hottest time of the day: late morning to mid-afternoon 2. If you’re travelling by car or public transport always take a bottle of water 3. Avoid strenuous activity, and limit activities like housework and gardening to the early morning or evening when it’s cooler 4. When inside, try to stay in the coolest parts of your home. Keep curtains and blinds closed in rooms that catch the sun 5. Keep windows shut while it’s cooler inside than out and open them when it gets hotter inside. If it’s safe, you could leave a window open at night when it’s cooler 6. Wear loose, lightweight, light-coloured, cotton clothing. 7. Take cool baths or showers 8. Splash your face with cool (not very cold) water, or

place a damp cloth on the back of your neck to help you cool off 9. Drink lots of fluid – even if you aren’t thirsty 10. Eat normally – even if you aren’t hungry, you need a normal diet to replace salt losses from sweating. In addition, try to have more cold foods, particularly salads and fruit, as these contain a lot of water What else can you do? Older people and those with health conditions (like breathing problems and heart conditions) can be especially affected by heatwaves and long spells of hot weather. Our Caring Neighbour service can help if you are worried about yourself, a friend or neighbour during the summer months, and think you or they would benefit from a little bit of extra support and help during the summer. Our team can offer more information and advice on staying healthy and hydrated during the summer months, as well as connect you to other services that enable you to live well. If you’d like more information about Caring Neighbour, or to receive a free guide “Staying cool in a heatwave” please call 020 8770 4089 or email centralservicesadmin@ageuksutton.org.uk

English Tutor

Worcester Park Area • Flexible hours

FOR ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS Digital A5 & A4 Leaflets Single Sided from £40 for 250 in full colour Order of Service/Memorial 4 page from £35 Including Colour Business Cards from £35 for 250 A1 Posters from £10 Your Favourite Pictures on Canvas mounted on frames from £12 MANY OTHER OPTIONS AVAILABLE Please call or email

I am a highly qualified, experienced Secondary English teacher from a leading selective Independent boarding HMC school. I have an excellent record of progressing students both at GCSE and A level. I am experienced also at KS2 and prepared students for Common Entrance. Fatima 07966 006 208 £25.00 p/h Discounted group rates

Female Arabic, Quran Teacher Worcester Park • Flexible rates

I am highly qualified, British trained, Arabic teacher. I studied Arabic at the prestigious University of Jordan almost twenty years ago. I have worked in the public and private sectors teaching both primary and secondary school students. I am well placed to create a tailor made programme that would suit your needs. So if you want to learn Arabic, Qur’an, tajweed or need Arabic/ English translation please do not hesitate to contact me.

Fatima 07966 006 208 £20.00 p/h Discounted group rates

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In 2014, 93% of clients who used the service would recommend us to family and friends

Help at Home services

How we can help you: ♦ Cleaning and tidying ♦ Shopping and meal preparation ♦ Help with social care needs ♦ Company on walks and outings ♦ Accompany to hospital/medical appointments ♦ Laundry and changing bed linen ♦ One-off spring cleans

♦ Medication collection and prompting ♦ Connect you to home assistance product solutions (e.g. stairlifts, hearing care, aid call and daily living aids) ♦ Garden maintenance solutions, including overgrown garden clearance ♦ Linking you to local social opportunities

Get in touch for more information

020 8770 4089/4091

centralservicesadmin@ageuksutton.org.uk To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

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Voice for Wildlife by Carol Williams

The word ‘dandelion’ comes from the French name ‘dents de lion’ which means ‘teeth of the lion’ in reference to the jagged leaves on the plant. Another folk name for it is ‘swine snort’ - the origin of this isn’t known.

Spring at Shadbolt Park Pond I love dandelions. I’ve always done so, and have never understood why so many people don’t. They are such cheerful little flowers, with their bright yellow heads, and I admire their tenaciousness and resilience. I also tend to always side with the unpopular and unloved against majority prejudice. The status of so many of the commoner wild flowers as ‘weeds’ annoys me. People simply pull them up ‘because they are weeds’ - without questioning whether the plants are actually doing any harm where they are or whether there is any real need to just grub them up. There are no ‘weeds’ - it is not a botanical term. A weed is simply a plant which grows vigorously in a place where some human decides it isn’t wanted. Dandelions - much to my amusement - will produce more seed than usual when disturbed. I like that - it seems like a nice, humourous swipe by Mother Nature at our obsession with trying to tidy up and tame wilderness. The lush flowers of the dandelion attract bees, and this is very good news. We need bees to pollinate our food crops. In Victorian times, dandelions were cultivated with care, and eaten by the well off, in sandwiches and salads. The whole plant is edible. They are high in calcium, iron and vitamins A and C. The roots can be used as a coffee substitute, much like chicory. The flower heads taste delicious deep fried in batter and can also be used to make a dye in the yellow/green range; the leaves will make a purple dye. The part of the flower which we think of as petals is, in fact, a lot of separate little flowers. They produce a fruit which is followed by tiny, barbed, brown seeds with accompanying ‘parachutes’ to carry them on the wind for dispersal. Seeds may travel as much as 8 kilometers from the parent plant. Children blowing the ‘clocks’ help enormously with this. The flowers bloom in the sunshine and close in the evenings and on dull days. They do not need to be pollinated to form seed, and the pollen cannot cause allergies because the grains are too large.

as well as cullinary uses.

Dandelions are thought to have originated in Eurasia 30 million years ago. Historically they have had many medicinal

There is a fair bit of folklore about dandelions - if they are woven into a wedding bouquet they are supposed to bring good luck to the newly married couple. If they appear in dreams they represent happy unions. They have been believed to be symbols of hope, summer and childhood and, according to the author Scott Cunningham, they may increase psychic abilities! The poet John Clare seems to share my love of these delightful little plants. In a poem called ‘ A Rhapsody’, he writes this: “Tis May, and yet the March flower Dandelion Is still in bloom among the emerald grass, Shining like guineas with the sun’s warm eye on... We almost think they are gold as we pass, Or fallen stars in a green sea of grass. They shine in fields, or waste grounds near the town. They closed like painter’s brush when even was. At length they turn to nothing else but down, While the rude winds blow off each shadowy crown.” To me, also, they are ‘fallen stars in a sea of grass’. They charm me, always bring a smile, food for bees and food for me, beautiful as well as useful, one of Nature’s small wonders. For me, untamed wildness is incredibly beautiful. A patch of uncut grass waving in the breeze, decked with the tiny blooms of many plants which most people never notice and cannot name, is a work of art. I can stroll down an ordinary suburban street and find much of interest in a grass verge that most people will simply walk past without a second glance. The cheerful bright yellow flowers of the humble dandelion are a delight to me whenever I see them. I hope I may have persuaded some of you to see them differently from now on. If so, I am happy.

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

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

Thursday

Songs and Stories is a new music and story-time group at Worcester Park Baptist Church for babies and toddlers aged 0-4. We meet on term-time Thursdays, arriving at 10am for 10.10am start. Each session lasts 40 minutes and will include songs, puppets, rhymes, movements and story telling. Cost: £3.00 per session (£2.50 for siblings) No booking required

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.

PERSONAL TRAINING Look good and get fit for the summer - Weight loss and toning - Strength and conditioning - Nutrition plans - Affordable packages - Fit around your timetable

call: 07886279268 / 07907230511 email: tinagymbob@gmail.com visit: www.tinaj-fitness.com Are you motivated and enthusiastic to start your own profitable business from home around your current commitments but not sure how? I am looking for others to join my expanding team retailing an amazing range of products containing Aloe Vera and bee pollen in the growing health and wellness industry. You will get advice and support and enjoy the benefits of running your own business! No mimimum sales, no stock-piling, this is an amazing business for anyone who wants to work for themselves and gain big rewards! Email or call Heidi to find out more

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Kitchens Bedrooms Home Offices Living Rooms

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Hobbies A hobby that’s worth droning on about Kate McLelland

When a tiny quadcopter flew too close to a passenger plane last year, it sparked a huge row about the recreational use of drones. The unmanned aerial vehicle (or UAV) came within only 25 metres (82 feet) of the plane as it landed at Southend Airport in Essex, raising questions about safety. But in spite of all the controversy, these little machines have seen a stratospheric rise in popularity. Drones may be the latest gadget-of-choice but pilotless flying vehicles have a long and surprising history. In 1849 the Austrians launched an unmanned bomb attack on Venice, using balloons (as planes were yet to be invented) but the attack was largely unsuccessful. No-one took much interest in military drones until World War I, when the Dayton-Wright Airplane Company devised a pilotless airborne torpedo that could explore at a pre-arranged time. The first remote-controlled pilotless aircraft was invented in 1935 and World War II saw the use of UAVs on both sides, but when the US Air Force lost over 5,000 airmen in the Vietnam War, drones began to be used extensively. They undoubtedly saved further loss of life but these large, expensive, jet-powered craft proved hard to recover and many were lost during operations. It wasn’t until the technological advances of the 1980s and 1990s – allowing for computerisation and miniaturisation of the systems on board – that UAVs developed the kind of flexibility and range that we find in today’s models. These hovering flying machines are used for everything from military surveillance of battle zones to examining archaeological sites from the air. They have transformed the art of aerial photography, snapping images that would have previously been impossible to capture by conventional means.

As the cost of manufacturing small UAVs has dropped in recent years, their popularity has soared. Last Christmas they topped just about every ‘must-have’ gift list: when online supplier Website Appliances Direct sold out its bestselling model in less than seven days, it had to order 5,000 more from China. Selfridges also claims to have sold more than 100,000 tiny Q4 Nano drones via its Red 5 concession. With sales figures set to climb even higher in the runup to Christmas 2015, it looks as though the buzzing of flies in parks and rural areas will soon be replaced by the buzzing of drones. But if you are thinking of buying one for yourself or a family member, be warned, as you can incur some pretty hefty penalties if you let your drone infringe airspace regulations. The Air Navigation Order states that no unmanned craft can be flown within 50 metres of a person, vehicle or building – unless the people, vehicles or buildings in question are “under your control”. That means even that flying a drone in your own back garden is not permitted unless your neighbour’s property is at least 50m away. If you’re in a public space, such as a park, you are not allowed to fly within 150m of any “congested area” and you must avoid filming in places such as sports fields where crowds are gathered. Even though you may be able to receive live, streamed video from the drone’s location, you must not let it stray out of your line of sight. Businesses that want to use a drone for commercial purposes must apply for a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority before they attempt a flight close to people or property. There are obvious health and safety risks if a drone is mishandled or breaks down in mid-air and the British

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Airline Pilots’ Association recently commented: “It’s not just the weight of the device that could cause injury (imagine being hit on the head by a frozen chicken dropped from fifty feet), they are equipped with numerous spinning blades.” A number of recreational users have already been convicted for offences that include flying too close to the rides at Alton Towers and photographing Devonshire landscapes without the landowner’s consent. It cost one man over £4,000 in fines and court fees when his UAV flew near a road bridge and over a nuclear installation. If you’re still keen to own a drone you can pick up a fly-only model from under £30. A more advanced device, which lets you steer from a smartphone or tablet while a camera streams live images or records video footage, will cost around £250-£300.

Here are some basic rules to follow when you attempt your first flight: avoid windy conditions and operate the drone in a park or grassy field well away from people, animals and parked cars. Turn off your mobile phone and try not to let other distractions affect your concentration. With a bit of practice, you’ll soon be flying like a pro, but just remember: if your expensive UAV ends up in a tree, just don’t go droning on about it…

As long as the rules and regulations are observed, you’ll get hours of enjoyment from flying these clever little gadgets, but do set aside some time to master the techniques you’ll need before you attempt that perfect bird’s eye view shot.

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