Wplife april 17 by jenny stuart

Worcester Park Life

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April Contents

History by David Rymill 6 Organic Wine 8 Ruth Jemmett Writes 11 Finance 16 Baking Chocolate & Orange Hot Cross Buns 20 Food & Drink 22 Crossword 22 View from the City 24 Sudokus 26 Cure CJD 28 Worcester Park Dramatic Society 30 Recipe Ricotta stuffed chicken 34 What’s On 36 Flower Power 42 A Photographer Dreams.... 44 Cryptic Crossword 46 The Dawn Raiders 48 Codeword 51 Clubs 52 Voice for Wildlife 56 Parkin’ some thoughts 58 Kids Play 60 Solutions 54 Published by Malden Media Limited Editor Jenny Stuart jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk 020 8336 2915 www.maldenmedia.co.uk 36 Rosebery Avenue KT3 4JS Please note that the opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent the views of the editor. All advertisements are commercial and not indicative of any endorsement by the editor who accepts no responsibility for any loss suffered directly or indirectly by any reader as a result of any advertisement or notice published in this magazine. All in-house artwork and editorial presented in this magazine remains the copyright of Malden Media Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, stored on any retieval system, or transmitted in any form electronic, mechanical. recording, photocopying, or otherwise without prior permission from the Publisher.

Welcome to Your Worcester Park Life Well, after years of resistance, denial and persistent pester power from children and husband I finally caved and we are now the very proud new family of puppy Matty – a 12 week old bundle of fun, affection and gold & apricot fluff. Who’d have thought! Trying to minimise our posting of cute puppy videos on youtube and facebook – but, I can totally see why people get carried away. (If you are interested then I have sneaked in just a small picture onto page 60.) One unexpected benefit is a much tidier house as leaving shoes and household items within his reach is just not an option (we’ve learnt to our cost!) – and a long overdue declutter is systematically taking place before a new area becomes his playground. Anyway, to all fellow dog owners all I can say is - OK, yes, I get it now! Remember that Worcester Park Life is YOUR magazine so if you are helping to organise an event and would like some FREE publicity then please do email details. Likewise if you are part of an organisation that could benefit from attracting new local members next year then why not send in an article. You may or not know that in order to deliver the magazine to most of Worcester Park, we split the distribution over a two month period. So if you have had this edition delivered you probably won’t get the next one. There are a limited number of copies available from Waitrose, the libraries, Manor Drive surgery, St Marys and also Christ Church with St Philip but don’t forget that it is also published online - you can get the link from our website. Until next month, best wishes.

Jenny

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

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Worcester Park History by David Rymill

Around the North Cheam crossroads This month I have picked two topics which have two things in common: they both relate to the borders of Worcester Park and North Cheam, and they are both subjects about which I do not know as much as I should like. In Malden Road, between Hayling Court and Hemingford Road, the Busy Bees day nursery stands on a site used for many years by the Cheam detachment of the Red Cross (Surrey/136), which had been formed in July 1915 with 23 members under Mrs Kate Owens. Originally the focus of activity was The White House in Cheam High Street (later replaced by Farnham Court), which was initially used for training. By May 1918 local members had been sent to undertake nursing in between 25 and 30 military and auxiliary hospitals, with one serving in France and one in Salonika; a ward had also been opened in The White House which had treated 50 sick or injured soldiers. With the coming of peace, Mrs Owens remained as Commandant, giving lectures on home nursing. Mrs Owens lived in North Cheam, at Hurst Cottage, Hemingford Road (now part of the site of Yardley Court), later moving round the corner to Daphne Cottage (subsequently numbered as 74 Wordsworth Drive, and now Auden Place). This probably influenced the choice of Malden Road as the location for a permanent headquarters for the detachment, and plans were submitted to the council for a hall in 1926. In the wider Surrey Branch, Mrs Owens was registered as the branch’s Assistant County Director in 1928, and she ran the hospital library scheme. The hall was later enlarged or replaced, and Mrs Owens’s long service was recognised by its being named as the Owens Memorial Hall. The black and white photograph shows the detachment’s 21st anniversary dinner at the Drift Bridge Hotel, Epsom, in October 1936, when Mrs Owens was still Commandant, and was published in the Worcester Park Times (I only found out the exact place and date of the event after reproducing the photograph in my book on Worcester Park, Old Malden and North Cheam). The colour photograph, courtesy of Chris and Kay Foale, shows the hall shortly before demolition. If you have

any photographs of the hall in its heyday (interior or exterior), or you have memories of being involved in Red Cross activities here, I should love to hear from you. Fairlands Park and much of the adjacent Sainsbury’s site, beside the London Road, occupy the land used for about 60 years as a staff sports ground by London Transport and related companies. It was bought in 1928 by the London General Omnibus Company, and in the following January the LGOC board approved the spending of £12,638 on buying the land and constructing a pavilion; plans for a pavilion were duly submitted to the council that spring. The LGOC was the largest bus company in London; in 1933 it was transferred to the new London Passenger Transport Board, usually known as London Transport. By 1937 there were ten sports grounds available to London Transport staff; of these, six, including North Cheam, were run directly by the Board which met the cost of maintenance, staffing, etc, and received rents from the various sports associations which used the grounds. The North Cheam ground by this time had five football and cricket pitches, four hard tennis courts, and a putting green. The main user was the LT (Central Buses) Sports Association; this was by far the largest of the associations, with 17,000 members out of a possible 32,590, and an interest in five of the grounds. They paid £250 annually for the use of the ground, and another £50 was paid yearly by the much smaller Building Department Athletic Association which used one football and cricket pitch. London Transport’s commitment to staff recreation is clear: they met the remaining £431 of the annual running costs at Cheam in 1936-7, and the individual associations benefited from grants from the Lost Property Fund (totalling £2,410 for all the sports and social groups that year).

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In the post-war years, programmes were drawn up for improvements to the grounds. In 1948 it was decided that a bowling green, recreation room and additional dressing accommodation should be provided at Cheam. Progress was hampered by difficulties in obtaining building licences and materials, which in 1950 delayed the construction of a recreation hut at Cheam, but in 1952 the new bowling green, bowls hut, recreation hut, children’s playground equipment and other facilities were brought into use. With effect from the start of 1952, the Central Buses association merged with the equivalent association for tram and trolleybus staff to form the London Transport (Central Road Services) Sports Association. They continued to use the Cheam ground, and in the mid1950s the LT (Country Buses) Sports Association also enjoyed the facilities here. 1950s events included interassociation matches between the Country Buses team and the LT (Metropolitan Electric Tramways) Association, and a ‘road versus rail’ bowls match in 1954. Pitches were also let out for use by teams from the Ministry of Agriculture, Church Commissioners, Road Haulage Executive, and Matthews, Wrightson Ltd.

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On the closure of the ground towards the end of the 20th century, Sutton Borough Council stepped in to secure the retention of part of the land as an open space. It was laid out as a public recreation ground. Tony Brett Young recalls that the name Fairlands was suggested by one of his fellow councillors, after the FAIrlands telephone exchange name (replaced in about 1967 by the 644 numerical prefix). The FAIrlands exchange served Sutton and Cheam, parts of Sutton (with Belmont) being on the VIGilant and MELville exchanges (which became 642 and 643 respectively). So far I have not been able to find any photographs of the sports field, so if you have any photographs, or you have memories of being in a sports team there, please do get in touch with me. David Rymill David.Rymill1993@alumni.aber.ac.uk

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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Ruth Jemmett Writes April - a month by any other name Ruth Jemmett Takes Us Through a Flowery, Showery Time Of Year. April was the second month of the Roman calendar. The Anglo Saxons called it Eastermonath, Ostermonath, or Eosturmonath. Eostre was thought to be the name of a pagan goddess of Spring. In ancient Rome the 1st of April was called the day of Venus Virilis (‘bold fortune’), obviously relating to the mating activities in the animal kingdom. This month is both loved and hated by farmers and gardeners. We often seem to get an overload of different types of weather, making it difficult to know when to sow seeds. The blossoming of the blackthorn towards the end of the month can often co-incide with cold spells, threatening burgeoning buds and vegetables that are beginning to brave the elements. Children of all ages look forward to lst of April, as it provides them with the opportunity to play jokes on each other. It probably evolved from the late 15th Century, when the French had a custom of sending someone on a mission, which involved them pinning a paper fish on to someone’s back without their knowledge, to make them a ‘poisson d’avril’ - literally an ’April fish’. In the seventeenth Century England began to send people on ’a fool’s errand’ on this date, in search of something like pigeon’s milk. These days the media join in the fun, and it is best not to take newspaper headlines too seriously at this time! There is a saying that ‘The cuckoo comes in April, and stays the month of May, sings a song at midsummer, and then goes away’. Tradition dictates that when you hear the first cuckoo you should jingle the money in your pocket, which will supposedly bring you good fortune. The cuckoo’s numbers have declined in this country in recent years, but they are always evident in this

area in April. I have never actually seen one, but every year I hear a cuckoo giving its familiar call from one of the many trees that are here in Salisbury Road. When I hear the song I am reminded of the time when I was a girl, and we had a cuckoo clock on the wall. One day it fell down, and from then on its mechanism got from confused,, making it sing ‘oo-cuck’! We would get very baffled looks from visitors! Talking of birds I was recently highly delighted when a heron came swooping on to my lawn. Luckily I had my camera nearby, and took a ‘photo of it - see pic. Nature is certainly on the move. Next door neighbour Steve recently found TEN frogs in his pond! This month we would have celebrated the birthday of the very funny actor, Gorden Kaye, but sadly he died recently. He was best known for his role as Rene, the hapless bar owner in the BBC comedy ‘Allo ‘Allo. The show is still broadcast in more than 40 countries - including Germany! The famous Boat Race is on the 2nd April, when crowds throng along the tow-path of the River Thames to cheer on their favourite crew. I always try to watch it on televison, and it is cheering to see the willows that overhang the water changing from dull brown to light green - a real sign of Spring. The 7th of the month is World Health day. It’s theme this year is depression. Sadly, suicide is the leading cause of death in 15 - 29 year olds in this country, and countless people (particularly young mothers) are on anti-depressants. Many people find it hard to deal with the demands of everyday

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life. If you are one of those, don’t be afraid to seek help. On the 2lst April we celebrate the 91st Birthday of H.M. Queen Elizabeth. Her official birthday is in June when Trooping The Colour takes place. How I admire that lady. At her great age she performs many official duties, and is often seen negotiating stairs without holding on to anything - which many people of a certain age (moi included!) sometimes have to think twice about! (My excuse is that as I live in a bungalow I am not used to them!) April is National Autism Awareness Month. One in 68 children will be affected by the condition, that has no know single cause. It presents itself in various ways, such as lack of eye contact, repetitive bodily movements,

obsession with lining toys up, or being over-absorbed in certain hobbies to the exclusion of all others. It is frequently not fully diagnosed until a child is about three years old, by which time their brain will have already begun to work in a certain pattern. Some children are sadly unable to partake in normal education, whilst others can be high performers, albeit often having some socially unacceptable behaviours. Many people have a lesser version of Autism called Asperger’s syndrome, and they can often ’fit in’ to the so-called normal world, but will be seen as different, as they sometimes cannot empathise with others, and find humour confusing, as they can take language very literally. It has been suggested by some psychologists that a lot of politicians seem to have Aspergers, as they often lack empathy

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for others. We should all be aware that when a child is seen screaming in a supermarket, it might not just be a case of a temper tantrum from a stroppy child. They might well be autistic, and can view the world, with all its noises and colours, as a threatening place. Nature has not always been kind to boys, and they appear to have the condition more than girls. We often talk about ‘The Selfish Gene’ in men, but it could just be that what we might view as their emotional coldness and lack of empathy could be masking mild Autism. April is, of course, the month when we celebrate the Christian festival of Easter. Easter Eggs seem to appear in the shops a little earlier each year. It is bad enough that we see Christmas Cards being sold in August! We have Lent leading up to Easter, and in accordance with tradition I have tried to give up crisps, which I love. I have to confess that I couldn’t last the course, and still have a sneaky bag here and there! On 23rd of April we celebrate St George’s day, when we remember our ‘English’ patron saint,

who certainly didn’t come from these isles. Still, it gives patriotic folk a chance to wave the flag, and possibly march along with Boy Scouts! Also on this day - William Shakespeare was born in 1564. I hope that all of you taking part in The London Marathon on 24th have done the necessary training, and are looking forward to raising money for your own particular cause, whether you are attired in normal outfits or are attired as a rhinoceros! I admire you all. The nearest I get to running is when I do a quickstep at Glitters, our local dance hall in Ewell Village! (See ad in Clubs section). If, for whatever reason, life isn’t being too kind to you at the moment, remember Dolly Parton’s words: “If you are feeling low, don’t despair. The sun has a sinking feeling every night, but it comes back up every morning!” Have a wonderful Easter. Forget the diet, and enjoy those eggs! Ruth Jemmett is a Member of The Society of Authors

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Finance Ways to reduce ‘hidden’ spending so you can save money or pay off debt There are the obvious ways to save money, such as using comparison websites or cancelling an unused gym membership, but what about the ‘hidden’ money pits that drain your cash in a less evident way? Three areas immediately spring to mind – food, cars and technology – all essential parts of life but ones that can seriously deplete your financial reserves. So what can you do to stem the flow of cash, start to pay off your debts, or save towards something special such as retirement or a family holiday? Food shopping According to Love Food Hate Waste, £13 billion of edible food was wasted by households across the UK in 2015, equating to 7.3 million tonnes.¹ One of the issues is that people don’t plan their food shopping, and overestimate how much their household needs. Although it’s a very convenient way to shop, supermarkets encourage overspending with so-called ‘deals’ and careful placement of goods around the store. This can result in food wastage as consumers are encouraged to buy more than they need – a particular danger if you also shop when you’re hungry.

cover your current policy provides, and whether it’s still appropriate. Maybe you’ve included one of your children on the policy, for example, but if they don’t drive the car regularly, is it really necessary when you could always insure them on a temporary basis if needed?

By planning your meals ahead (even for just a week), making a list and sticking to it, you’ll have more control over your household budget and be able to make regular savings. Shopping for fruit and vegetables at local market stalls can also be a cheaper option – the produce will be fresher and you’ll be supporting your local economy. Cars An essential part of everyday life for most people, running a car is expensive and constitutes a significant chunk of the annual budget. So although you may already be resigned to spending a small fortune on your car, have you looked closely at all the costs? You can reduce the outlay on insurance, petrol and servicing, making smaller savings over a number of areas. Insurance premiums The ever-increasing cost of insurance is a particular bugbear for motorists. On top of the annual increase in premiums, Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) has also risen from 5% to 6%, making insuring your car even more expensive. Although there’s nothing you can do about IPT, if you plan in advance and can afford to pay in one lump sum rather than by monthly direct debit, you’ll save money in the long-run. It’s also worthwhile looking at the level of

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To further reduce premiums, try: • Increasing your level of voluntary excess. • Having an immobiliser or approved tracking device fitted. • Taking advantage of multi-car discounts if you have more than one car in the household. Fuel Fuel is usually the largest cost for motorists, and one of the best ways to save is to alter your driving habits. Avoiding harsh acceleration and braking, and reducing your speed on the motorway, if only by a few miles per hour, will help you save. You can check the price of local petrol online using PetrolPrices.com, and plan ahead so you’re not forced into buying expensive fuel at motorway service stations en route. Making sure your tyres are at the correct pressure, and reducing unnecessary weight in the car, will also help. Servicing and MOT Package deals on servicing are available on new and used cars, and although it may seem a large outlay at first, they can offer long-term savings. As far as MOTs are concerned, you can save the cost of a re-test just by carrying out a few simple checks before taking the car in, such as tyre tread depth and light bulbs. Phones and technology Most people don’t question the fact that they have a landline, but do you really need one? If you naturally reach for your mobile to make a call and could manage without a home phone, you’ll make a significant saving on line rental and call costs. If you prefer to keep the landline, maybe you could save on the cost of your mobile phone. With so many competitive pay-as-you-go deals around, it’s worthwhile checking them against your contract. Also, don’t forget about recycling any old phones to raise extra cash. The mobile phone and broadband market is so competitive that simply by contacting your provider and saying you want to leave, you’ll probably be offered a better deal just to retain your business. Also consider whether • You consistently exceed your data or minutes - you’re probably paying more than you need in additional charges, and could save money by choosing a deal with a larger allowance. • You need a fast broadband speed, or if a cheaper ‘standard’ broadband package would suffice. The best deals are generally reserved for new customers, so it’s worthwhile haggling if you’re not completely satisfied with the deal they’re offering, but be aware of any early exit penalties that might form part of your contract.

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Cake and Bake Chocolate & Orange Hot Cross Buns

Give the classic hot cross bun a delicious twist with the addition of chocolate chips, orange zest and piped chocolate crosses!

Ingredients:

1. Sift the flour into a large bowl and stir in the salt, mixed spice, orange

• 500g strong white plain flour, plus extra for dusting

2. Bring the milk almost to the boil in a small pan then stir in the butter

• 1/2 tsp salt • 2 tsp ground mixed spice • Zest of 1 orange • 50g caster sugar • 1 x 7g sachet easyblend or fast-action dried yeast • 300ml hand-hot milk • 55g butter, cubed • 1 large egg, beaten • 75g dried mixed fruit • 50g dark chocolate chips

FOR THE GLAZE

AND CROSSES • 1-2 tbsp warmed golden syrup • 50g dark chocolate, melted

Makes 12 Ready in 2 hours, 45 minutes

zest, sugar and dried yeast. Make a well in the middle.

until melted. Leave the liquid to cool until it’s just hand hot. Pour the liquid into the well with the beaten egg and mix with a round- bladed knife to make a soft and slightly sticky dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.

3. Place the dough in a clean, lightly greased bowl and cover with oiled

cling film. Leave the bowl in a warm place for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.

4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, flatten out with the palms of your hands and scatter over the dried fruit and chocolate chips. Fold and knead the dough until the fruit and chocolate chips are incorporated. Divide and shape the dough into 12 even-sized buns and place on a large greased baking sheet.

5. Cover loosely with oiled cling film and leave in a warm place until the buns have risen by at least half again and are almost touching each other - this will take about 45-60 minutes. Preheat the oven to 200C, 180C fan, Gas Mark 6.

6. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until risen

and golden brown. Leave on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a cooling rack. Brush with the warmed golden syrup whilst the buns are still warm.

7. When the buns are cold, spoon the melted chocolate into a small

disposable piping bag, snip off the end and pipe a cross on each bun. Leave until set then serve.

TIP

These buns are best eaten on day they’re made, but if you have some left over the next day simply split and toast and serve with butter or chocolate spread.

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Food & Drink Eating healthy? Do not forget to upgrade your wine drinking habits! Many people do not know that grapes accumulate more harmful pesticides and herbicides than most other fruit. It means that conventional wines are not just alcohol, they come with additional harmful substances. Why do you need to drink it? Common sense tells us that less of those nasty pesticides will mean healthier you. That is how you can care for yourself better. What is the solution then? Quite naturally, it is all to do with organic farming. It assumes that no harmful pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and chemical fertilisers are allowed in the vineyard to grow the grapes. No artificial or synthetic preservatives are used, no colours added and no agents added to alter the taste; obviously nothing genetically modified. Hence the definition of organic wine is that it is made from grapes grown organically. It is not just the absence of harmful things, organic organic wines are richer in nutrients & antioxidants*.

We all know that red wine contains resveratrol, which is an antioxidant that protects against cancer, heart disease, is anti-ageing and may even extend your lifespan. You can imagine that pesticides can significantly decrease the potency of any antioxidant. In fact, the French government in 2012 officially released a statement that there is a link between pesticides and Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease in agricultural workers. What about the taste? Have you ever been told that those organic wines might be better for you but they taste awful? It is a strong argument not to drink it, after all we all want to enjoy a very good wine. Recent advances in organic movement and also brilliant job of winemakers and sommeliers are bringing absolutely amazing organic wines to the UK. Blind tests did not show any evidence to support or reject the hypothesis of taste differences anymore (as was proven by Decanter blind tasting panel). Organic wines are not different from their conventional analogues, more so, they are expressive of the nature and soil and pure with the fruit flavours. Make the first steps towards your healthier lifestyle with organic wine!

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Wine & Tapas INTRODUCING WORCESTER PARK

CLUB

What is it:

Sample a dozen organic wines and a selection of tapas ingredients to make your own.

When is it:

Every second Thursday of each month, 7:30 - 9:30pm

Where is it:

Organic Wine Club Only

ÂŁ16.00 Per person

More details at www.organicwineclub.co.uk To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

View from the City by Justin Urquhart Stewart 7IM Lemons don’t always lead to lemonade My penchant for Sipsmith Gin and Fever Tree Tonic Water is well-known among family and friends, as well as regular readers of my many musings on the investment industry. This year, it seems that (for a change) I am on trend – although the hipsters and I probably only concur on the gin. Sales of the stuff have shot through rooves of small-scale distilleries. Between 2009 to 2015, they rose from £126mn to £239mn a year…although I’m quite relieved that the increase is not being ascribed to my personal consumption! But what does all this have to do with investments? Well, it boils down to the news that the tipple has been re-added into the official basket of goods used to calculate inflation and produce the Consumer Price Index (CPI). After a 13-year absence, its spread from suburban semis to cool clubs means more of us are lingering over a G&T than for quite some time. Changes are made to the CPI basket of goods every year by the Office for National Statistics and have been since the basket was first developed in 1947. They survey what the average UK citizen buys, ‘weight’ those purchases according to the level of actual money spent and use a formula to take into account that people will almost certainly switch to a lower priced alternative when prices rise.

The basket serves to estimate how much it costs for us to live the same lifestyle as we did in previous years, while trying to incorporate society’s vagaries. Last year, lemons were added as a separate purchase from other citrus fruit and…proving that they don’t always lead to lemonade…this year it’s gin that’s in the headlines. Also now included are flavoured ciders – not just apples and pears – non-dairy milk drinks, cycle helmets and a base layer top – whatever that might be! Other items were removed as they’re not as prevalent. So out go children’s swings, fees to stop a cheque and single sink drainers. Once calculations are done, if the basket’s more expensive, there’s inflation in the economy. If it’s less expensive, then there’s deflation present. But unfortunately the basket is becoming more and more expensive. Inflations now at 2.3% that’s the highest it’s been since 2013. Inflation is supposed to peak towards the end of this year at 2.7%, before then starting to fall to 2.3% in 2018-19, but it could go higher. As investors, we need to be aware of these facts and figures in order to understand how hard our investments need to work just to keep pace with our cost of living. Only then can you really calculate how much each ISA or pension pot is actually growing (rather than just going up) to meet all your long term goals and aspirations. If you’re a multi-asset investor, you should already be benefiting from diversification. So, while your fixed income and cash investments are likely to suffer from inflation, your equity investments should help balance out any losses. In general, when inflation is up, equities rise too – even if their volatile nature means you need to step back to see that longer term trend upwards. Commodities also tend to be assets that rise with inflation. But by being invested in a broad swathe of assets, you Now…my only question left to ponder is what constitutes the adult jigsaw also now included in the basket?

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- Landscaping

- Path and Patio Washing

‘PUT YOUR GARDEN MAINTENANCE INTel: THE020 83 essgardenservices.co.uk HANDS OF SOMEONE WHO REALLY CARES’ cypressgardenservices.co.uk Mobile: 07 - One off Tidy - Garden Maintenance - Decking and Lawns - Hedge Trimming - Landscaping - Tree surgery - Stump Grinding - Strimming & Weeding - Garden clearance - Path & Patio Washing

CE IN THE MAINTENAN N E D R A G Y CARES' PUT YOUR WHO REALL E N O E M O S HANDS OF

Contact us on: dy - One off TiTel: 020 8330 7787 or 07958 727 272 ance - Garden Mainten d Lawns - Decking aninfo@cypressgardenservices.co.uk g - Hedge Trimmin g www.cypressgardenservices.co.uk - Landscapin - Tree surgery - Stump Grinding Weeding - Strimming and e - Garden clearanc ashing W - Path and Patio

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

Pictograms

Sudokus

3 words

fairly easy

DOZEN 3 words HOGWARTS

2 words

D SI

not so easy

A Picture Costs A Thousand Words

A O I D R N You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a normal everyday word.

3 letters: 13

4 letters: 8

5 letters: 5

6 letters: 2

If you’re texting pictures or emoji - the little icons of smiley faces or clapping hands - on your mobile, beware: many networks class those things as picture messages, and charge serious money for sending them. You’ll often find that even the most expensive contract bundle only gives you free text messages, not picture ones. The good news is that there are plenty of alternatives. If you use an iPhone and the recipient has an iPhone, you can send anything you like over Messages using your internet connection, bypassing the phone network altogether, and if you don’t have that possibility you 3 Letters NOR RAID RADIO can connect withRAIN friends or family via Facebook ADO OAR RADON or one6of the many hundreds AID Messenger, RANWhatsApp RIND Letters apps available for PCs, smartphones AIR of chat/messaging RID ROAD INROAD can even use apps to bypass the AND and tablets. ROD You ROAN ORDAIN voice and video calls: Skype is DIN phone4network Lettersto5make Letters for almost every platform, while Apple users DONavailable ARID ADORN another for voice or video. ION can FaceTime DARN oneDRAIN NOD

IRON

NADIR

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Care visits at home

Bluebird Care What we offer

Alternative

We offer everything from personal care to shopping, cleaning and social visits.

Care at home offers a realistic, cost effective alternative to residential care.

Bespoke Care visits range from shorter visits to live-in care and overnight stays.

01372 822875

Socialise with US

epsom@bluebirdcare.co.uk www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/epsom

Find “Bluebird Care Epsom” on Facebook and Google+ Follow us on Twitter “@bluebirdepsom”

The Life List Coffee Shop Etiquette Walk down any high street and it’s clear that Britain is now a nation of coffee shopkeepers (and caffeine addicts!). And even though some of us can tell Arabica beans from Robusta we still have a lot to learn. Baristas are sworn to secrecy, but here’s what they’d like to tell you... The newspapers are for everyone. Not just for you to show off your prowess at crosswords. If you bring your children with you, please don’t ignore them to play with your mobile phone because our table is not a colouring book. I see you stealing the sugar - does it give you a rush?

Yes, we do clean the toys regularly. What about your children’s hands? WiFi is free but staff wages aren’t. Please buy something every hour or so. We do not make the rules here; otherwise we’d call it a plain coffee too. Please don’t ask to charge your phone. You get your WiFi and every 10th drink for free. Surely you have electricity at home? You grumble about the price of a coffee - which we don’t set - and then flaunt your designer trainers and hipster man-bag. You deserve a roasting. Yes, of course my body piercings hurt. Allow me to demonstrate. No, this isn’t my career. You’ve found me out. I am indeed a writer, actor, spy, or a secret millionaire. Confidentially, we all are. A skinny latte isn’t a heathy option if you add chocolate cake to the tray. By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk

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

Fundraising My name is Lottie Wood and my family and I are doing Tough Mudder on the 7th of May to raise money for a charity called CureCJD. Four and a half years ago, my mum became ill with a rare disease called CJD. My mum was a much loved friend to many, and a fantastic mum to me. I grew up with it being just the two of us, we had a very strong relationship and, over my first 12 years, she taught me so many things which I carry with me as part of who I am every day. I will always admire her for all her incredible qualities and her positive and enthusiastic nature which taught me to appreciate any opportunity for adventure, and her strong-minded and determined outlook which has made me who I am, and which makes me proud to say I’m her daughter. CJD (Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease) is a degenerative brain disorder which, usually within a year and often much sooner, shuts down all the cells in the brain and kills the person suffering from it. It affects less than a 100 people a year in the UK a year and unfortunately there is currently no cure, so CureCJD is trying to raise funds to develop the first use of an antibody drug to treat it. My mum was diagnosed in the summer of 2012 with CJD, and died just 2 months later and we lost a dear mother and friend. I became part of the Lucas family and, although the circumstances were not ideal, four and a half years later I am so grateful to have been blessed with my 3 incredible new sisters and family. I cannot begin to explain how much I value them and how amazing they all are both inside and out. They have supported me through the last few years which have been hard for all of us, and they continue to show their support now, by joining me in taking part in the 2017 Tough Mudder. Tough Mudder is a 12 mile run in thick

mud, with obstacles after every mile. These obstacles include things like electric nets, a ‘leap of faith’ to a trapeze, and extreme conditions like icy waters and rings of fire... CureCJD is a small charity but their cause is very important to us and anything you can give will help them get closer to finding a cure to this rare and awful disease. We have put together a Just Giving page where you can donate online: https://www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/rememberKym. Or you can donate through text - by texting KYMW63 with an amount to 70070. Our aim is to reach at least £1,000. Anything you can give will be hugely appreciated. Let’s do this!

Andy Reeve

Plumbing & Heating Engineer ALL PLUMBING SERVICES from tap washers, toilets & garden taps through to installation of Central Heating Systems, Kitchens & Bathrooms.

No call out charges • Over 25 years in the trade Mob : 07973 733649 / Tel : 020 8393 0180 andyreeve.plumber@virginmedia.com

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Get spotted @

One of the most successful tennis academies in Great Britain is looking for their next generation of champions. Could it be your child?

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

Clubs The Worcester Park Dramatic Society The Worcester Park Dramatic Society is a local amateur theatre group of long standing, winner of the 2011 NODA London Flame Award, and since nominated for awards for our sets and performances. We stage two major productions a year at the excellent Adrian Mann Theatre in Ewell, in April and November. We will also stage a performance at the National Trust’s Smallhythe Place in Kent on 13 May as part of our 90th anniversary celebrations. For information about this and our summer production of 1-Act plays visit our website <wpds.co.uk>. We meet Tuesdays and Fridays at 8.15pm in the Elmcroft Community Centre in North Cheam, on the Sainsbury’s site. We have rehearsals and quiz nights and organise theatre outings and social events. We welcome new members wishing to act or work backstage in set construction, stage management, sound and lighting. Interested? Call our membership

WORCESTER PARK DRAMATIC SOCIETY PRESENTS

THE GARDEN PARTY A play by Jimmie Chinn & Hazel Wyld

The cast of our November 2016 pantomime secretary, Joyce Cranfield on 020 8337 3317. Or simply come to one of our evenings for a look. The Garden Party, our April production, celebrates Richard’s 70th birthday at his Isle of Wight home, with his wife and their children, who bring along their complicated lives. Skeletons emerge from cupboards, and an unexpected visitor brings astounding revelations. Among the arguments and tensions, but also of moments of tenderness, the family members seek to resolve their difficulties.

Word Ladder

Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.

F I R E

Here poss (othe FIRE hire here herd

27 - 29 APRIL 2017 ADRIAN MANN THEATRE WEEKDAYS 8.00PM SATURDAY 2.30PM

ETS TICK £11

01737 760163

www.wpds.co.uk

HEAT ©Puzzlepress.co.uk

BOX OFFICE

head

H E A T

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Heartfelt care in your home Care from 30 minutes support each week to full time live-in care We pride ourselves on delivering a personal service enabling you to live life in your own comfortable and familiar surroundings Hourly Care at Home is an ideal solution if you want a little support during the day, evening or night Live-in care is an excellent alternative to residential care if you want to remain at home and require one-to-one full time care.

To find out more, come and visit us or call our award winning team

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I cannot thank the team at Trinity Homecare enough for their support in caring for my Mum...they are worth their weight in gold.â&#x20AC;? Julia S, Surrey

Central House, 1-15 Central Road, Worcester Park, KT4 8EG

020 8108 4564 To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915 www.trinityhomecare.co.uk

020 8330 7557 - Sales 020 8330 7887 - Lettings www.brownsresidential.co.uk

Worcester Park - £625,000 • Detached Bungalow

• Locally Listed

• Located on The Avenue

• Three Bedrooms

• Two Receptions

• Delightful Private garden

• Detached Garage

• Further Off Street Parking

• E.P.C Rating: Awaited

Worcester Park l Stoneleigh l Ewell l New Malden l Cheam

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Independent Estate Agency at its best

£800,000 Worcester Park

£525,000 Worcester Park

• Large Family Semi • Four Bedrooms • Two Bath/Shower Rooms • E.P.C Rating E

• Three Bed Terraced Home • 30’ Through Reception • Garage • E.P.C. Rating D

£640,000 Worcester Park

£475,000 Worcester Park

• Semi Detached • Three Bedrooms • Garage and O.S.P • E.P.C Rating F

• Semi Detached Bungalow • Two Bedrooms • South/West Facing Garden • E.P.C. Rating D

Browns Residential

Park House, Park Terrace, Worcester Park, Surrey KT4 7JZ Email:

sales@brownsresidential.co.uk lettings@brownsresidential.co.uk

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

Recipe Ricotta stuffed chicken This recipe is a great way to turn chicken fillets into something special. You can prepare them a couple of hours in advance and keep covered in the fridge, then simply cook when needed. Serves 4 Ready in 1 hour 10 minutes 75g ricotta cheese 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves 2 tsp finely grated lemon zest 4 large skinless chicken breast fillets 12 thin-cut rashers streaky bacon 5 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp white wine vinegar 1tsp Dijon mustard Pinch of sugar 100g baby spinach leaves 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted

SJL PAVING

SJL Paving provide a vast range of paving and patio services. We use all types of manufactured & natural stone paving. All of our staff have many years of experience. To ensure the highest standard of improvement to your property we make sure that the ground is properly prepared to ensure a long and lasting flawless finish.

• Driveways • Patios • Brickwork • Repointing • Fencing • Decking • Turfing • Hedge Trimming / Removal • Jet Washing & Patio Cleaning • All Tree Work Undertaken • Garden Tidy Ups Ring now for a FREE no obligation quotation

T: 020 8183 0156 M: 07857 858486 E: sjlservices1010@gmail.com

1 Use a sharp knife to make a deep pocket in each chicken fillet, making sure not to cut right the way through. Place the ricotta cheese in a bowl and stir in the thyme leaves and the lemon zest. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. 2 Place one-quarter of the ricotta mixture in the pocket of each chicken fillet. Use the back of a knife to stretch the bacon rashers. Wrap 3 rashers around each chicken fillet and secure with a metal skewer. Preheat the oven to 180C, 160C Fan, Gas Mark 4. 3 Heat 1tbsp of the oil in a frying pan and fry the chicken fillets over high heat for 2-3 minutes until the bacon is browned, turning once. Transfer to a roasting tin and cook for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Cover and leave in a warm place to rest for 10 minutes. 4 To make the dressing, whisk the remaining oil with the vinegar, mustard and sugar in a small jug and season to taste. Slice each chicken fillet into 6 pieces and arrange on the salad leaves. Scatter over the toasted pine nuts and spoon over the dressing. Serve immediately. TIP Instead of ricotta you could use low-fat soft cheese such as Philadelphia or a mild and creamy goats’ cheese.

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0208 394 2555

Estate Agents and Valuers

Sales@JacksonNoon.com Lettings@JacksonNoon.com

much a key concern and this year we have found tenants asking for news as much as 6 Most of our monthly reports focus on sales -9 months in advance. Nearly always we but we do of course have a lettings can set minds at rest, but occasionally not. department helping an ever growing number of landlords and tenants. Our Landlords MOVING ON vary from those with a single nest egg rental A landlord’s circumstances can change and property to investors with multiple hard decisions have to be made. The right properties. Though many live locally plenty way forward may be to sell a rental property. live abroad. We talk to landlords enjoying There is no more saddening part of our job sunnier climes in Australia, South Africa, than delivering the news to a family that a Japan, Dubai, USA and Spain amongst landlord wants to sell. We understand others and as rain lashes against our office everybody’s situation but it will never get window we are occasionally rather envious. easier for tenants, landlords or us. CHANGE OF FOCUS

Our tenants, and their reasons for renting, are similarly diverse. For example we have a number of tenants who own property elsewhere and have chosen to rent here for work, family, schools or while their own property is renovated or extended. So a number of our tenants are also landlords.

Thankfully by listening carefully to both landlord and tenant requirements we don’t have to cross that bridge often. Being mindful when matching landlords, property and tenant unusually avoids that scenario and the upheaval and expense that goes with it.

UNCERTAINTY

Whether we will see more of this type of decision having to be made is unclear. Mortgage interest relief changes start to be phased in this tax year and we already know that for a few landlords this will present a very real financial problem. Some are already making plans and others have yet to calculate the real impact. Whatever happens we are always there to help everybody towards what’s right for them.

Over the last few months we have seen a rise in the number of tenants giving notice as they move on to the next phase of their lives and buy their own property. It’s sad to lose them but exciting to see them achieve their dreams and take a step away from one of the most unsettling aspects of renting, the uncertainty that you will have the same home next year. The early part of 2017 has been marked by a growing number of tenants requesting we find out if their landlord will renew their contract. In the normal course of events we start that conversation, with both tenants and landlords, about 10 weeks before the tenancy anniversary. However it is very

There is good news though. Often tenants will say they want to stay with us as an agent and ask us to find them their new home. We are delighted that this month we have been able to find a couple of our wonderful tenants their perfect next home. That is the very happy side of lettings.

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

What’s On

Give blood

Find out times an book an appointment by calling 0300 123 23 23 St Philip, Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park KT4 8LG 11th May Sutton, The Thomas Wall Centre, Benhill Avenue, Sutton, Surrey., SM1 4DP 20th April, 4th May St James’s Church Hall, Bodley Road, New Malden 5th April Cheam, North Cheam Sports and Social 658 London Road, North Cheam 16th April

Farmers Market

Wallington Farmers’ Market is held from 9am to 1pm every second Saturday of the month at the Old Town Hall and Library Gardens in Woodcote Road, Wallington. Established in 1999, it is the borough’s oldest Farmers’ Market and hosts around 26 local producers stalls every month. 1st Saturday of the month - New Malden Farmers Market. By the Fountain pub. 9am-1pm

Bourne Hall Museum

Wednesday April 5 2017 7.30 pm to 9pm A HUGE HOLE IN MY LIFE. The story of the Lochnagar Crater on the Somme a talk by the owner, Richard Dunning MBE Bourne Hall Spring Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 1UF Entrance is free but donations will be asked towards the upkeep of the Lochnagar Crater. Richard has owned the Lochnagar Crater since 1978. This vast wound on the battlefield is now preserved as a memorial. To those men and women of all nations who fell in the Great War and is dedicated to peace, forgiveness and reconciliation. It is a place of pilgrimage for over 200,000 visitors each year. The Lochnagar mine was an underground explosive charge, secretly planted by the British during the First World War and ready for 1 July 1916, the first day of the Somme, the bloodiest day in British military history. The mine was dug by the Tunneling Companies of the Royal Engineers under a German field fortification known as Schwabenhöhe (Swabian Height) in the front line. The mine was named after Lochnagar Street, the British trench from which the gallery was driven. It was one of 19 mines that were placed beneath the German lines on the British section of the Somme front to assist the infantry advance at the start of the battle. The Lochnagar mine was sprung at 7:28 a.m. on 1 July

1916 and left a crater 98 feet (30 m) deep and 330 feet (100 m) wide, which was captured and held by British troops. The crater is the largest one made in hate by man. It was heard in Epsom! Email: dbrooks@epsom-ewell.gov.uk www.epsomandewellhistoryexplorer.org.uk/ BourneHallMuseumClub.html

The Christopher Singers

present BRITAIN - A musical celebration On Saturday, 8th April, 2017 2.30pm and 7.30pm The Elmcroft Community Centre Colin Peel Hall, 570 London Road, North Cheam, SM3 9AB Tickets: £12/£10 (concessions 2.30pm show only) Child £6 Box Office : 020 8337 2053 and 020 8647 7592 Join us in a journey through the decades to celebrate the marvelous achievements Britain has accomplished. A mesmerising tour which includes tributes to The Royals, Playwrights, Entertaining and Sports, to name but a few. A riveting show full of great musical numbers. In aid of The Oak Centre for Children and Young People, Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

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 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 Entry Free; cars via Cheam Gate. For further information please visit the website at www.friendsofnonsuch.co.uk

Epsom Playhouse,

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

Magic of The Beatles 31 March Yesterday - the Golden Anniversary Tour Join the authoritative live concert show, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Yesterday! 1966 saw Lennon and McCartney come of age as songwriters: the Beatles’ 11th EP, Yesterday, and seventh studio album Revolver both topping the charts. The Magic of the Beatles returns us to this golden era, and more. Taking you from the Beatles’ Mop Top roots to the psychedelia of Sgt Pepper and beyond. From Love Me Do to Let It Be.

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The Music of Bob Marley 1 April Combining his superb, distinctive vocals with flawless musicianship. . . timeless, million-selling hits Could You Be Loved; Is This Love; One Love; No Woman, No Cry; Three Little Birds; Jamming; Buffalo Soldier and scores more reggae classics come to life. A truly talented cast that has performed with Desmond Decker, Dennis Brown, The Mighty Diamonds, Errol Dunkley and Burning Spear, capture to perfection the charismatic cultural icon that was Bob Marley. Prepare for a legendary night of happy vibes. Pete K Mally. On The Road (Myers Studio) 1 April Pete K Mally is back on the road to share his stand-up routine based around his twenty years experience of teaching, his new novel and frankly everything else. As usual expect special guests, a few surprises and a belly load of laughs. Albert Lee 2 April Double Grammy Award Winner, Albert Lee returns to Epsom Playhouse this time accompanied by his American Band. Undoubtedly one of the finest guitarists the world has ever seen, Albert is also an accomplished piano player and has a fine singing voice. He has a soulful voice but can equally ‘tear it up’ rock ‘n roll style. Pull the Other Theatre Education: Easter Holiday Shakespeare Drama Workshop ‘THE COMEDY OF ERRORS’ 3 - 7 April Come and laugh with PTO Theatre in their fun and dynamic 5 day drama workshop on Shakespeare’s most farcical of comedies, ’THE COMEDY OF ERRORS’. A hilarious story about two sets of identical twins’ separation and their quest to find long lost relatives and make lifelong friends. Patsy Cline - The Concert she never gave 3 April An evening of song, laughter and legendary stories is promised when you come along to this enthralling tribute to the music, life and times of one of the world’s biggest country music stars - Patsy Cline. It is some 50 years since patsy left a great legacy of hit records. This wonderful show pays tribute to country music’s world renowned superstar. Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of The Dubliners 4 April Seven Drunken Nights brings to life the music of Ireland’s favorite sons - ‘The Dubliners’. Telling the story of a career spanning 50 years and evoking the spirit of Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly, Barney McKenna, Jim McCann, Ciaran Bourke and John Sheahan, this hugely talented cast of musicians and singers bring the music of this iconic group to life. An evening with John Humphrys 5 April Broadcasting’s toughest interrogator talks about his 50 years in journalism and broadcasting and invites you to turn the tables on him. Proceeds to his Kitchen Table

Charities Trust which finances projects supporting people in the poorest areas of the world. This meeting is sponsored by EPSOM TALKS! – bringing prominent speakers to Epsom & Ewell since 1898. Membership £32 per season (pro rata rates available). Visit: www.epsomlit.org.uk or contact Elizabeth Mackie, Membership Secretary, on 01737 355300 Magnificent Music Hall Matinee 6 April Back by popular demand. Take a trip down memory lane to the glorious and glamorous heyday of traditional Music Hall, a truly golden era. All New Rock n Roll Paradise 7 April In 2017 Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise returns to the UK’s theatres for the 8th successive year but in a new and exciting format. For the first time ever the show’s producers are not disclosing ‘who’ will be performing at each show. Alice in Wonderland - Ballet Theatre UK 8 April Join Ballet Theatre UK and follow Alice on her magical adventure as she tumbles into Wonderland. Basing his Ballet on Lewis Carroll’s much loved classic books Artistic director Christopler Moore has created a captivating piece, brimming with wit, humour and charm. With its whimsical flights of the imagination, eclectic music and joyful dance, Alice in Wonderland is delightful entertainment for all ages. The Searchers 9 April The Searchers remarkable career continues. With such classic hits as, Sweets For My Sweet; Needles and Pins; Don’t Throw Your Love Away; Sugar and Spice and When You Walk In The Room, they have contributed enormously in establishing the UK as the world’s leading nation in the music industry. There is no doubt that the decade that gave us The Beatles as well as The Searchers and many others was very special and will go down in history as being the most imaginative period of music creativity and expression. The French Quarter All Stars 10 April Authentic jazz from the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans. Beauty And The Beast 11 April Belle lives a quiet provincial life in the village of Ooh La La… until an Evil Enchantress arrives in town. Belle’s father accidentally stumbles across a terrifying Beast and his daughter is taken captive… Now it is up to Jolly King Cheggers, the village idiot Wally, Dame Dolly Doolittle and the mysterious Fairy Tale to save the day and unlock the Beast’s magical secret. Mr Bloom’s Nursery - LIVE! 12 April Bring your ‘tiddlers’ along and join Mr Bloom and the Veggies on their first ever live tour. Mr Bloom and his Veggies are getting the Nursery ready for a very special occasion - a member of the Royal family is paying them visit! Can you lend a hand and help them get the Allotment ready in time? They certainly hope so! Featuring all of the much loved elements

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of the TV show, Mr Bloom (Ben Faulks) will be joined by all his gardening friends: Margaret, Joan, Colin, Raymond and Sebastian, the lovable Wee MacGregors, and not forgetting Mr Bloom’s trusty machine ‘The Compostarium’. Let’s Hang On 13 April The music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. This award-winning production, endorsed by Frankie Valli himself, celebrates the music of one of popular music’s most successful bands of all time. Richard Digance 18 April Join Richard for a celebration of his 50 years of songs and stories that led to a BAFTA Nomination and The British Academy of Composers Gold Award. 31 albums, music for Bill Bryson’s audio book and over 3 million YouTube views prove it was a successful journey. He is supported by acoustic duo The Broadside Boys on their first British tour as they promote their new album Plenty More Fish In The Sea. Robert Habermann - From Broadway to Hollywood (Myers Studio) 18 April The songs and stories of how the great successful Broadway Shows were taken to Hollywood and turned into the great and not-so-great Hollywood Musicals. Robert tells the stories and sings the songs from Oklahoma, Guys’n’Dolls, Carouslel, South Pacific, The King And I , Gypsy, Funny Girl and many more. songs include: People, if I Loved You Oh What a Beautiful

Morning, Somewhere, Tonight and many more hits, climaxing in a medley of 20 Tony Award Winning songs. Trextasy 19 April Marc Bolan, with his band T.Rex, was one of the most flamboyant and charismatic stars of the original glam rock era. It’s hard to believe that 40 years have now passed since Marc’s tragic fatal car accident and fans have mourned the loss of a truly individual, inspirational talent ever since. Bolan’s special ingredient of Rock-a-Boogie songs including ‘20th Century Boy’ ‘Get in On’ and ‘I Love to Boogie’ have insured that Marc Bolan and T.Rex have become one of the most memorable and enduring bands of the seventies Jongleurs 20 April Your regular dose of comedy brought to you by Jongleurs, the UK’s number one comedy company; they’ll have you rolling in the aisles with laughter. Don’t miss this chance to see another two hours of today’s funniest stand-up - book your tickets now Kast Off Kinks 21 April Not a Tribute band. But Ex-members of the legendary ‘KINKS’ getting back together again to re-live the good times This great line-up features Mick Avory (the original drummer on all the classic hits from 196484), John Dalton (bass/vocals, Kinks 1966 & 1969-’76), Ian Gibbons (keyboards/vocals, Kinks 1979-’96 and still with Ray Davies) with Dave Clarke (guitar/vocals, formerly of the Beach Boys, Noel Redding & Tim Rose).

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Rodgers and Hammerstein Songbook 22 April An international cast present a spellbinding homage to Rodgers & Hammerstein. Featuring songs from musical classics such as ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘South Pacific’, ‘The King and I’, ‘Carousel’ and ‘Oklahoma!’ This magical concert show celebrates the “golden age” of musical theatre and a writing partnership that has been called the greatest of the 20th century. Close Up Magic (Myers Studio) 22 April Prepare to be amazed! A Playhouse regular, Close Up Magic is one of the most impressive forms of the art and this unique format showcases some of the best and most skillful exponents. Audiences get to experience the magic in an informal, close up setting, often taking part themselves and witnessing the impossible from only inches away. An intimate evening of close up magic, trickery and sleight of hand. Singin in the Rain 25-29 April Join ELOC this April at the Epsom Playhouse for the splash hit musical, “Singin’ in the Rain”! Raining live on stage, this critically acclaimed musical will have you singing and dancing whatever the weather! Each unforgettable scene, song, and dance is present; including the show stopping title number, ‘Good Morning’, ‘Make ’Em Laugh’, ‘Moses Supposes’, and ‘You Were Meant For Me’. Croft & Pearce (Myers Studio) 3 May The stars of BBC Radio 4’s ‘The Croft & Pearce Show’ (2016), Spirit of the Edinburgh Fringe award-winners and receivers of the official Edinburgh Fringe (2016) TOTAL SELL OUT SHOW laurel, present their brand new sketch show! Croft & Pearce are fast gaining recognition for their unique brand of sketch comedy which cleverly interlinks a wide range of immaculately written and beautifully performed characters. They are building up their Theatre Touring presence and are touring small theatres and studios throughout the UK. Tenors Unlimited Thursday 4th May Tenors Unlimited are proud to present their latest touring show ‘Venice to Vegas!’ Throughout 2017, the guys will tour the UK and the USA performing works from their previous albums and tours as well as repertoire from their newest album The Journey. This concert series combines the rich vocal harmonies for which Tenors Unlimited are known with gentle orchestrations and a guest pianist. At it’s most powerful or stripped back and gentle, there is something for everyone is this programme of popular classical music. An evening not to be missed! Some Guys Have All The Luck 5 May Back after a sell-out show in 2016 ‘Some Guys Have All The Luck’ is a theatrical production celebrating the career of one of rocks greatest icons - Rod Stewart. From humble beginnings as a street busker through to international superstar!

Paul Metcalfe delivers an authentic and charismatic performance assuming the persona of this legendary singer-songwriter and performer right down to the last detail - from the distinctive vocals to the swaggering showmanship and sheer fun that have made Rod Stewart one of the most loved performers of all time. Don’t Dribble on the Dragon 7 May My brother has a dragon and he keeps it secretly Within a box beneath his socks. He’s hiding it from me Tom is a toddler with a cool older brother, a secret dragon... and a dribbling problem that just won’t stop! When Tom’s endless drooling threatens to tear the brothers’ friendship apart can their dragon’s amazing magic help them put it back together again or will it only end up making things worse? The Billy Joel Songbook by Elio Pace and his Band 11th May The Billy Joel Songbook performed by Elio Pace and his band Counterfeit Stones - SATIS-FiCTION 12th May (The Great British Take Off ) Why pay a fortune to see ants in a stadium when for a fraction of the price you can get up close and smell the faking brilliance of the Counterfeit Stones.

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Gardening Flower Power Pippa Greenwood

You can grow a huge range of flowers from seed at home. It’s amazingly inexpensive and surprisingly easy too. If you’re after some long-term residents for your flower borders then rather than paying several pounds for each and every plant you buy, why not be a bit more adventurous and grow your own from seed? Just about every perennial flower - that’s those that last for years and don’t have to be replaced on an annual basis - is available to grow from seed, and although you’ll have to wait until the plants have put on plenty of growth before they start to perform, once they have reached flowering size, they’ll just keep on and on performing! There are lots to choose from, including lupins, silene, Echinaceae, geranium, perennial poppies, delphiniums, gaillardia, hollyhocks, rudbeckia and salvia. Pay a visit to your local garden centre or study the pages of some seed catalogues and start plotting and planning what you’d like; you could save yourself a fortune, and all from a packet or two of seed. To get started, all you need are some containers into which you can sow the seed – I like to use halfsized seed trays, RootTrainers or smaller individual cells. You will also need some good quality compost and your chosen seeds. The job will be all the easier and better if you have something to tamp down the compost too, plus labels, a permanent marker, a dibber and some vermiculite (for covering seeds that need some light to germinate well). Compost often has a fair number of lumps in it, so sieving it through a compost sieve (which has much larger holes than a kitchen sieve) will allow you to remove the larger lumps, leaving fine compost perfect for seed sowing. If you sieve it straight into the pots, cells or trays, make sure you collect up any that falls on the surface below.

your own tamper using a piece of wood with a small block of wood nailed to it to make a ‘handle’. When it comes to sowing the seed, it is worth remembering that it is easier to look after the seedlings later on if the seed has been sown in rows, rather than randomly scattered. Straight rows are easily made using a plastic plant label. Check the seed packets for the precise depths at which the seed needs to be sown as this will differ from variety to variety. If you are sowing seeds in small cells

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Once the compost is in the tray or pot, firm it down so that there are no large gaps beneath the surface, as you don’t want subsidence later on. Levelling it off will make it easier to ensure the seeds are all sown evenly and at the same depth. You can make

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then it is easier to make the holes using a dibber. If you don’t have one, a pencil works perfectly well! RootTrainers are particularly useful for larger seeds such as sunflowers. Sowing the seed thinly along the drills in a seed tray makes life easier later on. Sown too densely, the seedlings that emerge will need more thinning out, and will be more likely to become drawn, leggy and weak, whereas given a bit more space they tend to be a lot sturdier. Once in place, just cover the seed with compost. If you are sowing larger seed into cells, just pop the seeds in to the prepared holes and cover to the required depth. The ideal sowing depth will be stated on the seed packet – it is not too exact a science, but it is best to get it about right! When all the seeds are sown, use a watering can with the rose attached to water the compost thoroughly. If the seed sown was quite small then it is best to water the compost by standing the tray in a shallow tray or bowl of water, and allow the compost to absorb the water from below – this way the seeds are less likely to be displaced.

Finally, don’t forget to label your seed trays clearly, ideally with a permanent marker. You may think you’ll remember what is in each tray, but seedlings don’t always resemble the full-grown plants that closely. Many perennials need heat for the seed to germinate reliably. Put the trays, pots or cells into a propagator, standing each on moist capillary matting. Once the seedlings appear, gradually lower the temperature and then prick each one out into its own pot. Allow them to grow on, keeping them fed and watered as necessary. In just a few weeks or months you can have some great plants ready for the garden. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com to buy gorgeous UK grown vegetable plants accompanied by weekly advice emails from Pippa, or to peruse the really useful selection of Pippa’s favourite gardening items including SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, raised bed kits, Nemaslug and other nematode controls for leather jackets, vine weevils and other pests, pull-out EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides.

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

A Photographer Dreams.... by Hugh Griffiths www.creativelight.org.uk I love April – it’s the real beginning of Spring … there may have been a couple of false starts last month, but now we can see the days really being warmer and our gardens, parks and streets getting moreServices colourful. qualified & R.J. Tree

R.J. Tree qualified & profession professional staffServices are dedicated to the highest levels of service in every theout, highest levels service in every instance. The flowers are to coming cherry blossom is allofaround

to spend about 5 to 10 minutes watching and snapping. us and the birds are doing what birds do in Spring. I There a number of things that make this picture work We are happy to give advice – on all you are giveincluded advice – on allareyour arboricultural queries. particularly loveWe robins andhappy I see that to I haven’t – for example, the eye of robin himself (herself?) is at the any of my photos of these beautiful creatures in these intersection of a “noughts and crosses” pattern on the articles. What a mistake! Their colour, their cheeky attitude, photo and this seems to make the picture more quotes attractive • Free their willingness to come very close to you and • check Free quotes to our minds. The flowers are nice and don’t distract from re dedicated out how you are disturbing their patch of ground; all of • Fully NPTC Fully NPTCthe qualified bird; and the branch is angling slightly upwards from qualifie these are lovely and makes them fairly easy • to photograph the left, giving a slight sense of dynamism. These tricks (although I once was gardening with my camera ready • Tree reductions / c • Tree reductions / crown thins of photography seem a bit odd and (to me anyway) are take the picture only to find that he was sitting on my ulturalto queries. not intuitively obvious), but they do to make good •seemTree felling camera. A picture missed!). Wisley Gardens –•theTree RHS felling pictures. centre just down the A3 – is a great place to• takeStump pictures removal • early Stump removal Down on the coast again. I was up very that morning of flowers and trees. I was lucky to find this hawthorn with (this picture was taken just after 6:30) and walking along • Hedgeworks a resident robin, who made sure that I was no to its • threat Hedgeworks thequalified beach with the out. Here was a man, R.J. Tree Services &tide professional staffdigging are up dedicated domain. He sat on the branch, looking at me and cocking surveys • Tree surveys bait & for reports his fishing later that day. The• sunTree was behind him, & rep his head. I was about 2 metres from himto and was able the highest levels of service in every instance.

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making him into a silhouette with his reflection in the sunlight on the wet sand. When I asked if I could take a picture of him, I got the impression that this was an every day occurrence … standing there in the early sunlight he was a photographer’s dream! I’m not very good at taking pictures of people I don’t know – get a bit embarrassed at doing it without their knowledge, and don’t find it easy to just ask. But, I have found that there is almost no push back when you do ask, and that almost everyone is happy to be photographed. In fact, I have only once been given a negative response to my question. However, it is usually polite to ask and to be aware of how your subject (not a subject, of course, these are real people!) might react. In this picture, I have got all the interest on the left side, with the right getting gradually darker and with little places to focus. I like that balance but it’s worth asking yourself, when you are taking a picture or doing some editing on it, about how the final outcome will look. Incidentally, cropping a photo – making it a different shape – is the single most important editing tool that I use. And then a return to Wisley, later in the month, gave me a chance to take pictures of blooms. Some flowers just cry out to have a close up taken of their heart. And this is absolutely one of them. It’s a very simple photograph – and anyone could take one like it of flowers bought from a shop and sitting on the dining room table at home. In this case, I had a tripod with me and was able to look down on the flower and to centre the picture on the heart of the petals. Then, cropping it to a square format so that there are no edges, makes the picture quite striking. The way that the yellow centre gradually blends into the white is

attractive and helps to make this a picture that could be blown up and hang on the wall in your living room. And, you know, it really isn’t that expensive to have a canvas made of your photos, or a large poster print made and framed for your home.

Don’t forget that the Malden Camera Club meets on Thursday evenings at the Library in Kingston Road. We are a friendly group, and love our photography. Come along one evening. You will be very welcome!

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Cryptic Crossword Across 1. Quiet man making a drink (6) 4. Arm supported? Troubling (8) 9. Buoyant band in an apartment (6) 10. Six left aboard jumbo alert (8) 12. Lies about redhead chafing (8) 13. The majority of boys get by (6) 15. Flower back in water? Hurrah! (4) 16. Golfer going back around wicked city (7) 20. Horse taking short nap at last (7) 21. Dread of losing face first, one hears (4) 25. God has skinned Luigiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chicken! (6) 26. Snigger, ordered around by short poet (8) 28. Money mostly going on footwear and robes (8) 29. He covers short arms in Zimbabwe (6) 30. Charm of a slim cast wearing brown (8) 31. I nsect eleven leaders choose (6)

Down 1. Alien fronds at university (8) 2. Nothing left? Acceptable (3,5) 3. A lack of hatred in ruins (6) 5. Line of cabs, the first taken (4) 6. Appropriate tubas lie around (8) 7. Lookers anger outspoken prophet! (6) 8. Hear song ending heartbreak (6) 11. Pest first to locate wild animal (7)

14. Lost male leader rings me up (7) 17. Many sob in surgery, having gotten sick (8) 18. Agree Ned turned traitor (8) 19. Scrap of newspaper (tabloid guys acquired) (8) 22. My introduction to an Aberdonian luckbringer (6) 23. Scrap metal (lead loser put out) (6) 24. Property in the heart of Crete, say (6) 27. Fine piece of braised vegetable (4)

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Fitness

The Dawn Raiders The DAWN RAIDERS strike every Tuesday and Thursday morning, meeting at the gates of Sir Joseph Hood Memorial Playing Fields in Marina Avenue, Motspur Park KT3 6NE at 06.00 am. We’ve been meeting here for several years. It’s a mixed ability group and because we use “loops” everyone can train together without feeling left behind or inadequate. The sessions are tough and serious but you can work as hard or as easy as you wish. The effort involved is down to the individual; there is no pressure on pushing yourself to the limit. We have welcomed Comrades Marathon competitors, Ironmen, triathletes, marathon runners, mums on maternity leave, social runners and, of course, there is our hard core of regulars. Most of us are members of the Windmilers running club, but prefer to do our midweek training early morning. The Tuesday morning warm up involves a gentle jog along the track by the cemetery to The

Hamptons where we have a quick mobility stretch before continuing up the side of the hill and down to the clock house where we start and finish our hill sessions. We use different undulating loops and the total distance at the end of each session is between 8-10k (this does not include the warm up and warm down, approximately 2 miles). The longest undulating loop is 1.3k and the shortest 560m. We sometimes throw in a five-six times one mile loop which goes round the boardwalk and along Pig Farm Alley back to the clock house. Our Thursday warm up takes us alongside the cemetery, looping back along the horse fields. We have a quick mobility stretch with drills before starting our speed session. This involves repetitions of anything from 200m-2000m around the playing fields or along Green Lane. We usually save the longer reps for our marathon training preparations. The speed session usually covers 6.4k-8k. Of course, you are not compelled to complete the full session, you can leave earlier, but always let someone know so that we don’t go looking for you at the end of the session! Nothing stops us! We even meet on dark, snowy mornings. We also celebrate birthdays with cake and bubbles post run before everyone dashes off. We have a community spirit and there is no fee. We want to see more people running and training. So if you are interested in joining us just turn up or contact Olwen on 07941 898896 or email olwenseear@gmail.com.

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P E CONTRACTORS LANDSCAPE SPECIALISTS

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14:28

Codeword 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.

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Mondays

Worcester Park Civil Service Retirement Fellowship Group first Monday of the month at 2pm and finishing by 4pm. If the first Monday falls on a Bank Holiday the meeting takes place on the second Monday. Old Malden Scout Hall, 411 Malden Road, KT4 7NY. All retired civil servants and friends are welcome to attend and if you are interested in listening to one of our speakers please contact John Wright on 020 8337 8965 or johnandglenisw@gmail.com

mailto:johnandglenisw@gmail.com 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 Doors open 7pm for 7:30pm start.(Visitors £7) Visitors & new members are always welcome to our concerts. 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 Sue Hostler on 020 8337 3756

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 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.

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The ladies After Eight Club 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. Carol on 020 8337 2452 St James Players If you enjoy acting do come or help backstage. Monday and Wednesdays 8pm New members welcome. St James Church Hall, Bodley Road New Malden. Mem Sec: linda@dunnz,net

Tuesdays

Vegan Group - monthly bring and share buffet,. every second Tuesday. 7.30pm until 9.30 in Room 1,Christchurch with St Philip, corner of Ruskin Drive, WP. For vegans and anyone interested in learning more about veganism. Conquest Art Group inspires people living with disability or long term health issue to discover their creative energy and build self-confidence through art. Our art group meets every Tuesday at St Mary’s Cuddington, The Avenue, Worcester Park, KT4 7HL from 1:30 to 3:30pm. Anyone over 18 is welcome, all art materials and refreshments are provided. If you would like to come along and give us a try, please contact Carole on 020 8786 8534.

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. 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. Brian on 020 8224 6675 or Rowena 07837 941298

NHS Retirement Fellowship 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. Lorna on 020 8337 4121

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

Talking Of Trains In Surbiton Programme of talks which take place locally at the Surbiton Library Hall each Wednesday evening throughout the winter months. The first meeting is free; the fee for the complete year is just £50. www.talking of trains.co.uk

Thursdays

Tunes’n’Tea An afternoon of live music, tea, coffee, home made cakes, conversation and dancing if you wish. Guest musicians perform for your delight! Relax and listen to a mix of songs and tunes, old, new and everything in between! Thursday March 9th and Thursday April 13th 1.30 - 3.30pm St John’s Church Hall, Station Approach, Stoneleigh, Epsom, KT19 0QZ (next to Stoneleigh Station on the West Side) Entrance: £3 Sutton Mariners Sailing Club A local offshore sailing club founded in 1988 that meets at 8pm every Thursday evening at the Borough Sports Ground, home of Sutton United FC, Gander Green Lane, SM1 2EY. We are a small and friendly club of about 60 members and have about a dozen boat owners amongst us providing crewing opportunities during the summer months as well as enjoying meetings listening to interesting speakers and social nights. If you would like to get afloat come along and meet us – we’re sure you will enjoy the experience. www.suttonmariners.org.uk

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. March 2 Miss Anne Carter How life changed forever in 1914 April 6 Ian Waller: Village Crafts Finding out about the records of those who worked in rural industry. www.esfhs.org.uk

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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 each Thursday evening at 7.30pm for First Aid training. New members required. Everyone welcome. Hall available for hire. Christine 07966661015 Breathe Easy (Merton & Sutton) Group Wheezy? Breathless? you are not alone, come and join us at your local friendly support & information group for anyone affected by a lung condition. We meet between 2-4 pm on the 3rd Thursday of every month at St. Bedes Conference Centre, St. Anthony’s Hospital, London Road, North Cheam. SM3 9DW 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. 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. SCILL 020 8770 4065 Sutton Vision 020 8409 7166 Christ Church with St Philip 020 8330 7630

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New Malden Women’s Institute Shiraz Mirza Hall, Manor Park Hall, Malden Road, New Malden, KT3 6AV. 2nd Thurs of each month at 7.30pm Barbara 0208 546 1495 or twocavs@ googlemail.com

all abilities. Secretary Mike Ridley 020 8715 8326 Treasurer Mark Broughton 020 8337 9699

Social Dancing with Glitters at Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell Village. 8.30 - 11 pm. Over 18s. Entrance fee £8. All standards of dancing. Future dance dates: 7th April and Friday 21st April. Ring David for information: 07903 314276

Fridays

Quest a meeting place for people with physical disabilities between the ages of 20 - 60. However, once a member there is no age cut off. The aim of the club is to provide a welcoming, caring atmosphere for the members and allow the carers to have a regular break. Annual subscription. and £2.50 for lunch. We have various social activities and every second month we have a speaker. Christchurch with St. Philip, Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park. We meet the 2nd and 4th Fridays in the month from 12.45 to 4p.m June Day, Club Secretary, on 02083301220

RSPB Epsom & Ewell Local group 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. We also have several birding outings throughout the year which is arranged to suit all ages. There is a small charge for non-members of the RSPB. rspb.org.uk/

National Trust - Epsom, Ewell and District Supporters Group Formed 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. Men’s Secretary Gerald 020 8949 4623 or Ladies Secretary 020 8394 0877.

groups/epsom.

The Association of Surrey Bookbinders - we meet on Friday mornings in the Scout Hut in Dell Lane, Stoneleigh Roger@gmathews.co.uk 020 8330 2306

Sunday

North Cheam badminton club meet every Sunday at the Elmcroft Community Hall North Cheam. We are a small mixed club looking for new members of reasonable club standard especially ladies. Contact Pat Odonnell on 02083938895. www.facebook.com/groups/668968946606410

General

Auriol Bowling Club Auriol Park, Salisbury Road,

Worcester Park. It is a mixed club of around 45 men and 25 women, who play outdoors from April to Sept with a busy fixture list of league and friendly matches against other clubs, as well as internal club competitions. David Regan 020 8337 8919 www.auriolbowlingclub.com. Cuddington Bowling Club 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

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Voice for Wildlife by Carol Williams

It’s now 7 years since we began the work to restore Shadbolt Park pond and I started to write these articles. In it’s first Spring, the frogs arrived to spawn on Valentine’s Day, which was highly amusing! Since then spawning has never again been quite that early. This year the frogs turned up in early March, and with some very warm days in the middle on the month, the tadpoles began to develop very quickly - a colder spell will slow things down again. Success rates vary - some years we have seen many tadpoles and froglets in the water, and in others, hardly any. Last year, we had a huge amount of spawn but did not manage to spot more than a couple of tadpoles later in the year, suggesting that the survival rate was poor. for reasons we simply don’t know. Recently we had some very attractive signs put up on ‘our’ patch, to mark out the wildlife area - many thanks to Epsom Rangers. They look really good, all made by Nonsuch volunteers, and - hopefully - will prevent a recurrence of the accidental mowing that destroyed some of our late flowering wild plants last September. Tasks at the pond over the Winter months have included removing a child’s bicycle from the water - probably chucked onto the ice during a cold snap - picking up branches in the aftermath of Doris and removing a couple of the water lilies which, last Summer, had grown so large they were threatening to cover the entire surface of the pond. Keeping brambles in check and picking up litter are ongoing jobs. Some ducks also arrived at the pond in March - we have mixed feelings about their presence. Unwelcome lumps of uneaten white bread end up floating in our pond when ducks appear - not good, as this is rubbish which, if allowed to stay in the water, will pollute it. Removing soggy bread from the pond becomes another task that we would prefer to do without. White bread is not actually good food for ducks either - they should have grapes, lettuce, peas or birdseed (but not in our small pond, please!!). Only once have ducks hatched eggs at our pond and the ducklings did not, unsurprisingly, survive. Shadbolt Park sits in the middle of an urban landscape and does not have enough natural cover there are many foxes around, along with cats, crows and other animals for whom a duckling is an easy target. Please don’t encourage the ducks on Shadbolt Pond by feeding them - you are not helping. In the Spring edition of ‘Earth Matters’ which is Friends of the Earth’s quarterly magazine, there is a feature on a few people who are standing up for nature, (as I am trying to encourage everyone to do, by writing these

wildlife notes). One 14 year old girl, Mya-Rose Craig, who is a birdwatcher and blogger says “ Enjoy the sun, grass and wildlife. Your planet needs you”. Beth Collier, who teaches skills such as fire making, identifying edible plants, tracking and basketry to people of all ages in urban areas, says “ Nature is so vital to our emotional health. When we are separated from it our well being suffers”. Trees in our streets, green gardens, window boxes, local parks, grass verges, patches of copse and woodland, riverside walks and lanes bordered by brambles - these are all vital for wildlife and to us. We endanger our own health by destroying them - or forgetting to appreciate and protect them, letting developers come in and remove them, without any effort, on our part, to stop them. When I am working around the pond area in Shadbolt Park, I feel happy - it’s restorative to get close to Nature like this; it’s creative, nurturing - it feels good and wholesome. We know bees are in sharp decline, for many reasons, but all of them are to do with human activities. The dandelions will soon appear and these are fantastic sources of nectar for bees. If we wish to help bees, we need to stop persecuting wild flowers like dandelions, and begin to appreciate them for the valuable little plants they are. All native, wild flowers are immensely important for insect life - and that means for birds too, since birds need insects to feed their young. Enjoy them, don’t call them ‘weeds’ and grub them up - you are not doing Nature any favours at all with such an attitude. Instead, take a walk and look at all the brave little plants which pop up and flower in amongst our urban mess. I love leaving my patio pots to Nature and seeing what comes up - speedwell is beautiful, as is rosebay willowherb. I enjoy them - it’s free too. How many types of grass can you identify? Leave some to grow long and enjoy the feathery heads on the stems blowing gently in the Summer breeze. Leave the seeds for the birds. In Shadbolt Park, in our wildlife area, we are trying to encourage the wild flowers and the long grasses that so many insects thrive upon. If your attitude is ‘that is a mess’ - please change it - you are looking at it wrongly. Nature’s glory is its refusal to be ‘kept down’. Admire and love it for that, because if it were any different,

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we would have managed already to have destroyed so much if it irreversibly that our own lives would now be threatened. As it is, we have seriously affected over half of the world’s wildlife since 1970, with far too many species obliterated completely. Extinct is forever, and when our activities cause a species to vanish, that is not only a sad loss, it’s a scandal. We have no idea how important any species might be to the whole fabric of Nature. To neglect to be concerned is foolish, as well as selfish. What about those who come after us? Who are we to just shrug our shoulders and let it all just vanish? Will my grandchildren live in a world without elephants and rhinos? Will their children never have the joy of a walk in the woods and hear birdsong? Will the frogs and toads we are trying to help in Shadbolt Park still be here in 50 years, or will there be so many drained wetlands, so many lost ponds, so many fragmented, urban landscapes that they finally go extinct? I sincerely hope not, but we do all have to get involved with protecting them now. The last word comes from a river dwelling animal whose re-introduction to the UK is still controversial - a beaver on the river Otter in East Devon. Their presence ( one which naturally belongs here) is beneficial, despite what some choose to see as ‘destruction’ because they fell trees to build their lodges, The problem is not the beavers, the problem is us. The UK has lost most of its

tree cover. That’s our fault - beavers haven’t even been here for over 400 years, we can’t blame it on them. Their dam building activities create wildlife friendly pools and so make habitat for frogs and toads, and they slow down floods, a valuable asset to us, as we are constantly putting hard surfaces over the land and inhibiting drainage in heavy rainfall. And, the particular individual beaver I mentioned above is munching through a bank of Himalayan Balsam - which is an invasive species, hardy and persistent, and terribly difficult to eradicate from our river banks. Beavers to the rescue then. Beavers for conservation. Wildlife is glorious. Value it. Protect it. Nurture it. Love it.

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Parkin' some thoughts Technologically Challenged by Nick Hazell I admit to being a bit old fashioned. Take technology. It’s all around me, but I’ve never quite fully embraced what it has to offer. In fact, I’m rather resentful that it’s taken away some of life’s simple pleasures. In my job, slamming the phone down in an arrogant fit of negotiating peak was far more satisfying than the modern alternative of attempting to violently press the call end button on one’s iPhone and inadvertently ordering a pizza. There is also something special about receiving a hand written letter. My father was a great letter writer. In public he was a man of few, normally well chosen, Bristolian twanged words. On paper, those words flowed more freely. Every month at University, I received several pages of neat prose recounting the latest office politics, trips away with friends normally involving the consumption of three bottles of red wine before elevenses and anything else that was on his mind. Each letter was accompanied by his monthly stash of Luncheon Vouchers. These were intended as a food subsidy rather than as a credit line for establishments of ill-repute which, I’m told, was one of their alternative uses. My reluctance to engage fully with the modern age and preference for pen and paper has meant that I’ve never really embraced social media. I’ve always thought that being “famous” on Youtwitfacetube is a bit like being rich in Monopoly. I’m also struck by the irony that when angst ridden, teenage dreams were once committed to diaries, the authors were incensed if someone read them, whereas now there’s an equal feeling of discontent if an on-line revelation isn’t read by everyone. I would quite happily have seen out my days without having to consider which emoji or hashtag to apply to any emotion or thought. I have a problem though. In Parky World, the use of social media seems to be a handy, if not essential, tool for communicating. This might be to do with some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s meaning that as a group, we’re more likely to drop our phones down the toilet and less likely to write a decipherable letter. Whatever the reason, the internet is full of Parkinsonian inspired twitter accounts, blogs, vlogs, google hang outs and You Tubers. You’ve got to be in it to get it.

So, I thought I’d give it a go and opened a Facebook Account. Don’t get me wrong. I’ve not dived in to the pond of on-line chat forums from the 10 metre board, wearing a pair of multi coloured, tight fitting speedos and creating an enormous splash upon entry. Indeed, my appearance has been carefully concealed wearing the technological equivalent of a false moustache, wig and dark glasses. I’ve no desire to be tracked down by axe wielding, sociopathic former school mates arranging “reunions” or elderly friends of my Mother whose lack of hearing is reflected in their WRITING IN CAPITALS. I took the plunge to gain access to a Parkinson’s UK London Marathon chat group. The idea is sound enough. Through an exchange of supportive messages we see each other through the horrors of our respective training programmes as we work towards the big day. There’s no doubt that it works for some, but I’m not sure this on-line shoulder to cry on is really for me. First, everyone seems to be injured, worrying about being injured, not having trained enough or being too slow or in contrast, demonstrating just how much they have trained and how fast they can run. It’s not settling for the nerves. There’s also the perceived need to validate one’s existence through the on-line currency of “likes”. Once I’ve posted what I consider to be a witty remark, certainly compared to yet another query about whether bananas or mini cheddars make for a better fuelling strategy, I feel a wave of insecurity wash over me as the “seen by” number exceeds the “like” counter by some distance. I’m unlikely then to take this particular social media adventure much further. Mrs H, who is worldly wise in the ways of the Internet, suggested that maybe Facebook just isn’t my thing so I should try another format. There has even been talk of a blog, whatever that is. I’ll no doubt move on from my traditional way of thinking, but there will always be limits. For example. when out on a recent training run, I opened my pack of energy giving Love Heart sweets and was, somewhat prophetically, confronted with one of their modern slogans, “Tweet Me”. That’s where I draw the line though. I mean having Parkinson’s is bad enough, but writing in 140 characters or less? Now, that really is a challenge!

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PART -TIME GARDENER An experienced part-time gardener is required for a unique private 9 acre garden in Kingston. This is a mature garden containing many rare and important trees and shrubs, and is open to the public twice a year. It also features a Japanese water garden. You will work as part of a team with two other gardeners, 2 days a week â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8am to 4pm. Salary according to experience and qualifications If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Tanika for an application form at: Talleyne@kfh.co.uk or telephone 020 3542 0177

Awards and Prizes 1. Originally receiving the most votes, which dog was removed as a candidate for the first ever Best Actor Oscar after the Academy wanted to have a human actor win the award so they would appear more serious? 2. Which London art museum hosts the annual Turner Prize exhibition? 3. The Man of Steel award is given annually to the player voted best in which sport? 4. Who was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize? 5. Which annual award has a name containing three nouns that, according to an analysis of the Oxford English Corpus of over one billion words, are the first, second and third most commonly used nouns in the English language? 6. On which game show were a chequebook and pen awarded as a booby prize? 7. Winning in 1966, who was the first footballer to win the BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year award? 8. After winning the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016, Bob Dylan became only the second person to have won both an Oscar and a Nobel Prize. Born in Dublin in 1856, who was the first? 9. What is the maximum individual prize in a monthly premium bonds draw? 10. Sometimes referred to as the animalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Victoria Cross, the Dickin Medal was established in 1943 and was awarded 54 times to honour actions during World War Two. What type of animals were honoured more than any other, with 32 awards in total? To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915

Kids Play

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

There’s lots going on for pre-schoolers

Thursday

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.

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.

Carer and Toddler group for all families with twins and multiples. Come and meet other local families who understand all about having more than one of everything! We meet every Thursday at Worcester Park Baptist Church from 9.30- 11.30 am with toys, craft, songs, refreshments and stories during term time. Come along and join in - other pre-school siblings also welcome. There will be a minimal cost of £2 per family.

Friday

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

Saturday

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

TARGET Excellent: 43 or more words Good: 36 words Fair: 30 words

D M

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Matty see page 4 for an explanation!

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