Worcester Park Life
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March 15 issue 80
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Dear Readers
Welcome to the March edition of the ‘Worcester Park Life’. Thanks for all the submissions this month. David Rymill continues his historical articles with ‘A mystery in The Avenue’ - a fascinating insight into schools located on The Avenue and appealing for help in identiifying one in particluar. Enjoy! Don’t forget that British Summer Time (hooray, can’t wait, please make it a good one!) starts at the end of the month so remember to move clocks forward or risk of being late or missing out on the Sunday morning! Official advice is that ‘when local standard time is about to reach 2015, 1AM on Sunday, March 29, clocks are turned forward 1 hour to 2AM local daylight time instead’. Do any of us actually stay up to perform this ceremony?? I’m a Saturday night before I go to bed girl! So one hour less sleep for daughter no2 on Brownie pack holiday. I wonder if Brown Owl will give them a lie in. Other notable dates for March are of course St Davids Day on the 1st, St Patricks Day on the 17th and woe betide you forget Mother’s Day on the 15th I wonder if we will be treated to another batch of slightly blackened Welsh Cakes from the Welshman of the house on the 1st… I hope you enjoy a good read and also see what our local businesses have to offer. If you’ve any feedback on how they’re doing, or have any ideas for future editions, news or views to share then please get in touch. Remember, we deliver to most homes every second month so if you’re not able to pick up a magazine on the months it’s not delivered to you, you can read it on your smart phone/ tablet or PC. Until April, best wishes
Jenny
We also publish The Village Voice covering the KT3 postcode
Jenny Stuart, Editor & publisher P.S. Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when replying to adverts, and get in touch by 18th March if you’d like your business, Club or event to feature in the April edition(s). Contact jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk 020 8336 2915 www.maldenmedia.co.uk Malden Media Limited 36 Rosebery Avenue, KT3 4JS
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Next copy deadlines: 18th March for Aprils’ editions 17th April for May
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Worcester Park History
A mystery in The Avenue by David Rymill
This month I am hoping readers will be able to solve a mystery involving this photograph, dating from the winter of 1954-5, and sent in by Andrew Stainer who lived in The Avenue as a child. The actual location of the photograph isn’t in doubt: it was taken on the corner of The Avenue and Woodlands Avenue, and in the background is Kingsley High School, a private school at 25 The Avenue, on the site now occupied by Kingsley Court (the first part of Kingsley Drive runs through its grounds). Andrew’s sister, who
appears in the photograph, attended this school. The puzzle involves the blazer worn in the photograph by Andrew’s late brother Duncan, with a badge bearing the letters RHK – or perhaps RKH, depending on the order in which you read them. He would have been five years old at the time, and Andrew believes his brother attended a small school or kindergarten located approximately where Worcester Park Baptist Church is now, at the foot of The Avenue, but so far I have not been able to find any reference to this. If any WPL reader can identify RHK (or RKH), please let me know, as the family are keen to identify the school. My phone number and email address are, as ever, at the foot of the article (please note that the double l at the end of Rymill is followed by a figure 1). The Avenue has been the home of several private schools over the years. Probably the earliest occupied a large building named Lansdowne on the site of Lansdowne Court. The Misses Jane and Eliza Turk, with their sister Mrs Fanny Carter, took a lease of it in 1869 and opened a girls’ school, Lansdowne College, which by 1881 had 32 boarders. Another school, St. John’s College, was opened next door that year, in one of six large semi-detached houses on the land later developed as Rushmere
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Court. It was part of the Graduated County Schools Association’s network of self-supporting schools and colleges for girls and women. In 1882-3 the association took over Lansdowne and amalgamated it into their school. At the national level, this scheme did not prove financially viable, but presumably the Worcester Park school was more successful, because Miss Elizabeth Walsh, who had been appointed Headmistress in 1885, took over the lease of Lansdowne in her own right in 1888, and by 1891 she had 38 boarding pupils, mostly aged 12-18. In 1887 Miss Walsh had apparently planned to move across the road to no 13, then called Cawood House and later St Helens, but presumably abandoned this idea once she was able to take on the tenancy of Lansdowne. No 13 does, however, appear to have housed a private school for a short time after all, from about 1938, when a branch of The Study (based in New Malden) was located here, having started in c1931 at 2 Stoneleigh Parade, later 167 Central Road (perhaps above or behind the estate agents Mills Birtles, next to Barclays Bank) and having occupied Remenham House, another part of the Rushmere Court site, in c1933-38. Kingsley High School, the school shown in the photograph, was primarily a girls’ school, also catering for younger boys. It was established in Raynes Park, in 1927 by Miss Edith Trott; a Worcester Park branch opened in 1934, initially in the Malden Institute, moving in 1935/6 to 25 The Avenue. Sylvia Worker (nee Hutton), a pupil at the time recalls the early days in the new premises: “We all had a little patch of garden, about six feet by three; I think I grew spring onions and radishes – the trouble was, they bloomed in the school holidays.” Miss Trott remained as Principal well into the 1950s, and was succeeded by Miss Hillyer, who had been a teacher at the school for many years; the school remained here until c1966. Yet another school occupied Worcester Court, the mansion built in c1873 at the top of The Avenue, where Worcester Gardens is now.
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Blakesley School had been founded by the Dudley family in Blakesley House in Merton. In 1939, when the original premises were taken over as a first-aid post, the school moved to Worcester Court, where it was run by a second generation of the family, Eric and Winifred Dudley. It closed in 1959, but it has a local legacy in that 2nd Cuddington Scout Group was founded at the school, and used the school premises prior to moving to Salisbury Road in 1960. The Group was known as Blakesley until 1990 when it was renamed Rowe after Miss Ivy Rowe, who was a teacher at the school and also the cubmaster. The Stainer children grew up at Copsemead, 68 The Avenue, just below St Mary’s Church. Their great-grandfather Sir John Stainer (1840-1901) was one of the leading church musicians of the 19th century, serving as organist of St Paul’s Cathedral from 1872 to 1888; he composed many anthems, was involved in music education, and produced editions of music including a book of Christmas carols. He is best remembered today for his music for The Crucifixion, a sequence of words and music telling the story of Holy Week composed in 1887. At St Mary’s there will be a special evening service on Sunday 22nd March at 6.30pm, which will include extracts from The Crucifixion sung by the choir of St Mary’s. There is no charge, and no booking is required. Finally, in case anyone was wondering about the six former staff cottages and coach-houses, mentioned in January, that have survived although the houses they served have not, they are the coach-houses to Grafton House and Park House, at 19A-21A The Avenue, Worcester Court’s lodge (80 The Avenue), and, in Cleveland Road, The Grange’s gardener’s cottage and stable/ garage block (The Red Cottage and Orchard House) and a staff cottage for Clevelands, later St Michael’s (Cleveland Cottage). David Rymill David.Rymill1993@alumni.aber.ac.uk (020) 8330 6563
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Awareness Crohn’s Disease
Arthur Hookway became the Mayor of the London Borough of Sutton on the 9th of June last year and since then his life has changed dramatically. Here he tells of the events which led him to a very special professor and to an unlikely new passion: campaigning for a cure for Crohn’s Disease. I retired from the London Fire Brigade on the 9th of November 2004, after over 30 years operational service as a Firefighter, Junior and Senior Officer and ending my career as the Fire Borough Commander for the borough of Sutton from 2001 – 2004. Since then I have run my own fire training and risk assessment company, been the Chair and President of a private members club and from 2010 until November 2013 was the Chair of the Worcester Park Residents Association (WPRA). In other words, since retirement I have kept myself pretty busy especially on the volunteering front, which is a pet subject of mine, my theme for my Mayoral year is supporting volunteers and volunteering in the community, they are the backbone of the community and we can never have enough of them, especially in these austere times. By the end of 2013, I’d had several meetings with many eminent members of the London Borough of Sutton whilst undertaking my duties as the Chair of the WPRA when a friend of mine and a councillor suggested that I should run for office as a Liberal Democrat Councillor, that way if I were elected (which they thought I would be!) they convinced me that I would actually be able to achieve more for my fellow residents and business owners by representing them on the council. The rest as they say is history….on the 22nd of May last year I was fortunate to receive the most electoral votes in the ward of Worcester Park, where I live, and was elected to the council. However I never for one minute imagined that I would be asked to accept the honour of representing the borough of Sutton as its Mayor or first citizen from the 9th of June….you could have knocked me down with a feather! And here I am…my duties include being the Civic Ambassador of the borough, presiding over full council meetings we have 54 members (councillors) in Sutton consisting of 45 Liberal Democrats and 9 Conservatives, representing the borough as its civic head at formal and informal functions, attending and hosting receptions in the Mayor’s parlour and raising money for charities (non-exhaustive list).
Our Story And now to the main part of this article. My wife Su is the Mayoress of Sutton, she attends 90% of events with me, which we obviously enjoy and consider an honour and a privilege. However things have not always been so good. When our daughter was just eighteen, we received the devastating news that she had Crohn’s Disease (CD). To say the very least, we were deeply shocked. We had heard of this illness before but knew little about it. However, we were to learn a great deal more about it over the next fourteen years. Such is the stigma associated with the illness that people – especially the young - do not wish to talk about the severe pain, trips to the toilet, bleeding, inability to eat a variety of foods, much less do they have the energy to campaign for a cure. Our daughter has been on different drugs to control and suppress her condition all of her adult life. Currently there is no cure for this chronic (long term) condition…that’s where the next part of this story is heading! It was a fortunate day indeed when I came across the work of a very special professor at Kings College London.
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Therapeutic Vaccine It was an article in the Wimbledon Guardian which led me eventually to Professor John Hermon-Taylor, who has spent his career researching a bacterial cause for Crohn’s. His theory on Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) being the cause for many – if not all – sufferers seemed to me to be entirely logical and credible. And it seems I am not alone. Scientists are now refocusing on this theory, formerly considered controversial, as a result of recent evidence from a huge study - involving over 75,000 people looking at the genes of people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Crucially, it showed that there is ‘considerable overlap between susceptibility genes for IBD and mycobacterial disease’. Hence, of the two dominant hypotheses of CD causation - (1) Aberrant response of the immune system to the normal gut flora and (2) MAP - the genetic data is pointing us towards the latter. Over the last 17 years, the Professor has developed a vaccine, designed to treat as well as prevent Crohn’s disease. This work has been done in collaboration with the prestigious Jenner Institute, Oxford whose worldleading vaccine development team was recently chosen from institutes across the world to develop the Ebola Vaccine. The Vaccine has been tested successfully in mice and in cattle and is now pending a trial in humans.
If it works in people as well as it has done in cattle then there is every chance that it could cure or significantly attenuate Crohn’s disease. £2.65million is needed to get this crucial vaccine trialled and into clinics. Over the past 5 years, the Professor has also developed a new simple accurate diagnostic test for MAP. MAP testing is currently done only in research settings and cannot be obtained through IBD clinics anywhere in the world – hence this is a major unmet medical need. The new test can be used for both blood and tissue samples. It enables MAP to be seen in the tissues of people with Crohn’s disease for the very first time. Development work on the test is ongoing at King’s College London and supporters are hoping to raise £120,000 by the end of May 2015. During the years that the MAP theory was out of favour, funding for Prof. Hermon-Taylor’s work from the government and larger charities was very difficult to obtain. But he was able to keep going - just - thanks to generous donations from people with Crohn’s disease and their families, as well as smaller charities and charitable trusts, without whom the vaccine and new test would not exist. Happily, more and more voices from the Crohn’s community are now joining the call to get this vaccine trialled in humans. A website has been set up and Facebook and twitter pages launched
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to show people the science and spread the message of hope. I have become heavily involved and will remain so even after my Mayoral office expires. To those who say ‘But it is not proven’ I say ‘Then it is imperative that we find out –either way. We cannot wait any longer. We cannot - we WILL not - stand by and let a potential cure for our loved ones fall by the wayside untested’. So what am I doing? Sometimes you have to take opportunities that are presented to you in life. Presently, being the Mayor of one of London’s 32 boroughs I am in communication with many other Mayors…especially the local ones who I meet often. The Mayors of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Merton, Wandsworth, Croydon and Southwark all naturally know my family and are aware of our daughter’s situation. They are all completely supportive of me and my aims to bring the highest possible profile and support to this campaign to highlight the vital work of Professor Hermon-Taylor and his colleagues in their efforts to complete their work in finalising a test and hopefully a cure for this most dreadful disease for which at the moment there isn’t one. This impacts extremely negatively on the lives of more than a quarter of a million families in the UK alone, and needs to change soon!
If you, or anyone else you know are affected by IBD and wish to help in any way be it fundraising, supporting, donating or just information gathering, for more details please visit www.crohnsmapvaccine.com About Crohn’s Disease Crohn’s disease is a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease which affects an estimated 4 million people worldwide, including 1.2 million in the USA and around 250,000 in the UK and recent reports show numbers are increasing, especially in children. It is estimated that approximately £720+ million is paid out by the NHS each year in the different treatment therapies for individual sufferers ranging from drugs to major surgery. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, weight loss, bloody diarrhoea and chronic fatigue. Up to 80% of patients will need surgery at some point in their lifetime. The lives of most sufferers are blighted by multiple hospitalisations, surgeries, and immunosuppressive therapies, which may have nasty side effects, and as a result many people have difficulty holding down a job or attending school. It is ever present, and totally dominates the lives of those with the condition, and their families.
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Ruth Jemmett Writes Mad March hares and other affairs Ruth Jemmett Muses On The Onset Of Spring Can it really be March already? It seems to be only yesterday that I put the Christmas decorations away - well, two weeks ago to be precise. As, in January, I succumbed to The Bug that was doing the rounds, a large box of tinsel and festive bits and pieces sat in my hall for an indecently long time. I kept on promising myself that I would relegate it to the garage ‘when I feel better’, not intending to get round to it QUITE that late! When we think of this month we sometimes mention ‘Mad march hares’. Few people have ever actually SEEN a hare - and why do we think they are mad? Well, it seems that when there is a hint of Spring in the air, male hares -or ‘jacks’ as they are known - seek out the female of their species, who are fittingly called ‘Jills’. Jacks pursue their lady loves with great enthusiasm across the English countryside, and sometimes the females don’t find their suitors particularly desirable. (We’ve all been there, haven’t we girls?) Consequently, they will sometimes knock them back - quite literally - by rising on to their long hind legs, and doing a fair imitation of a prize boxer. Hence the spectacle of ‘mad’ hares trying to punch each other’s lights out! Like females of all kinds, they like being pursued by a suitor, but only if they really fancy him! A couple of years ago I was fortunate enough to come across a hare as I wandered around a beautiful Sussex country park. It was kind enough to sit still briefly enough for me to photograph it. It was a wonderful sight. Hares are fairly distinguishable from their rabbit cousins, as they are much larger animals, and their ears and hind legs are noticeably bigger. Spring is certainly making its presence felt here in Salisbury Road. Brave bulbs are struggling through the earth, and the air is filled with the sound of people in their gardens, muttering “Look at the size of these weeds!”. The air is also filled with the sound of workmen operating heavy machinery, as several
bungalows are being extended upwards, sideways, backwards - and one even downwards! When we ‘Golden Oldies’ moved into this typically 1930s estate many years ago we were drawn to the traditional look of the place, complete with its tree-filled gardens and air of tranquillity. The road has now become unrecognisable, as bungalows becomes one story buildings that sport balconies, and trees are felled with wild abandon. Now that planning regulations have been relaxed we are never quite sure what style of dwelling will pop up in the road next. (I quite fancy a helicopter landing pad on my roof …. I just might apply for one, for the devilment of it!). Gone are the times when we could slob around in our gardens in old dressing gowns, knowing that we had complete privacy. Being someone who is never seen outside without ‘full slap’ on my face, I now have to factor in extra time in the morning to make sure I don’t horrify the local population by showing them what I REALLY look like! My next door neighbour Steve once saw me bare-faced in my garden while he was up a ladder pruning a shrub on our joint fence. I believe he is still in therapy …….
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This is the month when we celebrate St David’s Day - on 3rd March. Some people sport a daffodil, or even a small leek on their lapels to mark the occasion. I suppose I should pay homage to it too, as I am one eighth Welsh - perhaps in my right hand?! I do in fact play the harp, so the genes will out!
432. He was keen to spread the word of Christianity, and was said to have used the three leaves on a shamrock to illustrate the meaning of the Trinity, hence the tradition of us wearing a sprig of the plant on his special day. As for his supposed ability to banish all snakes from Ireland, I think the jury is still out on that one!
On the 4th of this month it would have been the 100th Whatever you do this month, don’t forget to change Birthday of Sir Norman Wisdom, who died in 2010. I your clocks on 28th March, as British Summer Time was fortunate enough to have counted him as one of begins on 29th. If you have been putting off doing the my personal friends. This year his son Nick is helping to gardening, now will be the time to oil the lawnmower, as immortalise his father’s memory by organising a tribute R.J. Tree Services qualified & professio Easter Sunday falls on 4th this year. The lawns will R.J. Tree Services qualified & professional staff areApril dedicated to him. It is called “A Lifetime In Show Business”, and really need cutting by then!levels I have recently venturedin every to the highest of service to the highest levels of service in every instance. it is travelling around various venues in the country. I forth into my own weedy domain, and am spoilt for met Norman whilst doing voluntary work with several choice as to which gargantuan job needs doing first. Weof are happy to give – my on all yo to give your arboricultural queries. charities a fewWe yearsare ago, happy and my family and I advice shared – onForall those you who are following theadvice progress of many happy hours with him here in Worcester Park. refurbished pond, I can tell you that four of my goldfish have survived the winter, so I am contemplating buying • begin Freewith, quotes Of course we can’t forget that St Patrick’s • DayFree is also quotesa few more. Yes, I know I had ten to but I’m dedicated celebrated this month, on 17th March. (I • am Fully also oneNPTC new at this piscatorial lark! Some • of you will, NPTC no doubt,qualifie Fully qualified eighth Irish - possibly in the left foot!). You may be be in training for The London Marathon on 26th April. • session Tree toreductions /c • Tree reductions crown thins surprised to know that academics think that St Patrick (Use the/ lawn-mowing as a training improve was actually Welsh. As I reveal this, do I hear the clatter resisted the tural queries. Tree felling • Tree felling your fitness!) For yet another year•I have of a hundred shillelaghs being hurled across the room?! temptation to run myself ragged whilst dressed as a • Stump removal • Stump It is believed that he was captured by pirates, and then removal unicorn or a rhino. Such a shame it is far too late for me sold into slavery in Ireland. He eventually•escaped to register! (I’m such a liar …). • Hedgeworks Hedgeworks to France, where he became a monk.R.J. He eventually Tree Services qualified & professional staff are dedicated • Tree surveys & rep • Tree surveys & reports became a bishop, before returning to Ireland in the year
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Baking Hot cross buns Home-made hot cross buns are easy to make so why not give them a go? Serve warm from the oven, split and spread with orange flavoured butter for the ultimate Easter treat! Makes 12 500g strong white plain flour, plus extra for dusting ½ tsp salt 2 tsp ground mixed spice 55g caster sugar 1 x 7g sachet easy blend or fast action dried yeast 300ml milk 55g butter, cubed 1 large egg 150g dried mixed fruit FOR THE CROSSES AND GLAZE 3 tbsp plain flour 1-2 tbsp warmed golden syrup or honey
make a thick paste. Spoon into a piping bag fitted with a small plain nozzle and pipe crosses on each of the buns. 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 cooking rack. Brush with the warmed golden syrup or honey while the buns are still warm.
1 Sift the flour into a large bowl and stir in the salt, mixed spice, sugar and dried yeast. Make a well in the middle. 2 Bring the milk almost to the boil in a small pan then stir in the butter 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. 3 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. 4 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. 5 Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead in the dried fruit. Divide and shape the dough into 12 even-sized buns and place on a large greased baking sheet, leaving about 2cm space around each bun. 6 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 minutes to an hour. Preheat the oven to 220C, 200C fan, Gas Mark 7. 7 For the crosses, place the flour in a bowl and gradually add enough cold water (about 2 tbsp) to To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915
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Clubs The Sutton Mariners Sutton Mariners, a local offshore sailing club based in Sutton, is holding an “Open Evening” on Thursday 12th March at the Borough Sports Ground, home of Sutton United FC, Gander Green Lane, SM1 2EY.
Visitors will be made very welcome from 8pm onwards where they can meet club members and discover where and what we sail around the Solent and south coast areas. We are a small but friendly club of about 60 members who meet every Thursday evening to listen to interesting speakers and enjoy nautical chit chat. We have around a dozen boat owners amongst us providing crewing opportunities during the summer months. If you are interested in getting afloat why not come along and meet us – we’re sure you will enjoy the experience. Visit our website at suttonmariners.org.uk .
KING GEORGE FIELD INDOOR BOWLS CLUB
Learn to Bowl Free Coaching All Ages & Abilities Welcome Bar • Restaurant Social Events Large Car Park FUNCTION ROOM FOR ALL OCCASIONS Jubilee Way, Chessington KT9 1TR
Tel: 020 8397 7025
www.kgfindoorbowlsclub.co.uk
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We are an established, family run business serving householders within the community. • • • • • •
Friendly service with no high pressure sales persons Competitive prices Give your home A variety of windows to complement any property, including triple glazed options a new look fornew ‘Suffolk Door’ range A full range of doors including our fabulous Bi-folds and the Summer with our ‘Secure by Design’ high security locking ‘A’ rated thermal efficiency fabulous range of
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Clubs
What ages? We have opportunities for anyone from 18 to retirement and beyond.
1st Cuddington (Warspite) Sea Scout Group
Need to know any knots? We can teach those to 8 year olds, so no problems with adults! We think knots are rather useful - in 2014 they made sure our boats stayed where we left them, our tents didn’t fall down and that our catapults stood up.
Looking forwards to 2015....
Fun? Friendship? Putting something back into the community? If these sound like your New Years resolutions, then we might be able to help. 1st Cuddington (Warspite) Sea Scouts; who are both one of Worcester Park’s best kept secrets and one of the UK’s leading Sea Scout Group, are recruiting adult volunteers to join their team. What sort of roles? We are looking for adults who want to make a difference. For some this will be helping with a youth section, for others it will be a “behind the scenes” role. All offer flexibility and the chance to be part of a large and successful team.
Andy Reeve
Plumbing & Heating Engineer ALL PLUMBING SERVICES from tap washers, toilets & garden taps through to installation of Central Heating Systems, Kitchens & Bathrooms.
Any checks? Yes - we will carry out a DBS check on anyone working with young people. Can I get afloat? Yes, we have around 60 boats and the skills to use them. Are we any good? To quote the Royal Navy: “a very lively, outgoing and well-respected Sea Scout Group” or perhaps a parent “While Warspite teaches important skills - you never lose the focus on having fun too” To find out more about us, and how you or your children could join the adventure, find us on the web at www.warspite.org.uk; on facebook at www. facebook.com/warspiteseascouts or via emails to scouts@warspite.org.uk. The group is open to boys & girls from 5 ¾ to 18; with opportunities for adult volunteering.
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Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers
Tea Time Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a different number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. Once you have filled these throughout the grid you can start guessing words and reveal other letters. As you find the letters enter them in the box below. 1
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When times are tough you have to shout about your business
EVEN LOUDER Be seen and heard by the your local market in the Village Voice and Worcester Park Life. With competitive pricing, friendly efficient service and helpful advice it’s simple and effective - but then the best ideas always are.
Call jenny on 020 8336 2915 or go online www.maldenmedia.com
To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915
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View from the City
by Justin Urquhart Stewart
The politics of business I know I am supposed to be writing about this week - but last week I had some great fun in being invited to the British Chambers of Commerce annual conference with over 1,000 people attending. Now with an election in the not too distant future, I suppose it was no surprise that a queue of politicians all turned up to get their views heard. Of the main characters, it was noticeable that the one man who did not make an appearance was the Labour leader, although Chuka Ummuna, the shadow secretary of state for business, innovation and skills, frankly gave a far better talk than his less than inspirational leader. What I did find encouraging though was a broad consensus across the parties over the main business policies. This is important as the last thing we would want to see is partisan behaviour where with a new administration they just decide to tear up the progress made as being ‘not invented here’. Now that doesn’t mean that the progress made to date has been enough, but it has been a start at least. The British Business Bank and some of the export trade initiatives are both to be welcomed, but sadly in my view all rather still too modest and rather late. What I would rather see is a far greater reform of taxation, especially around property taxes and national insurance. After all Tolley’s Tax Guide, the accountants’ version of 50 Shades of Grey, has grown from some 7,000 pages in 1979 to over 15,000 pages today. Just how complicated can we make it? The answer is very. Time for some radical common sense to cut it back.
The UK has been poorly served by much of its corporate financing with the evolution of investment banks into dangerous leviathans, although currently more cowed, and some short term private equity and vulture capital operations which demand high returns and high fees for their money - or you lose your business. I do find it astonishing that in an era of such low inflation and interest rates the 20% returns are still expected as the norm from many of these houses. There are of course some far better white knights as well as some rapacious black knights, as well as others who seem closer to financial warlocks claiming to have discovered financial alchemy. The opportunities for responsible, regulated and advised crowd funding I think are very significant but they need to be brought in from the wilderness of the weird to the mainstream of commercial appreciation. Justin Urquhart Stewart is one of the most recognisable and trusted market commentators on television, radio and in the press. Originally trained as a lawyer he has observed the retail market industry for 20 years whilst at Barclays Stockbrokers and developed a unique understanding of the market’s roles and benefits for the private investor
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With over 550,000 new businesses established throughout the UK last year, this really is a fundamental change in our economy. What the politicians have to realise is that they have to foster the environment for such seedlings. Personally I don’t believe in state funding and intervention, but what they can do is remove much of the
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bureaucracy, simplify and reform the tax system as well as embrace the innovations of the new funding mechanisms.
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Mr and Mrs 1. What colour are Mr. Blobby’s spots? 2. On the TV show Mrs. Brown’s boys, what is Mrs. Brown’s first name? 3. In the world of TV, which job has been held by Mr. Starling, Mr. Llewelyn, Mrs. McClusky, Mr. Humphries, Mrs. Keele, Mr. McNab, Mr. Robson and Mrs. Bassinger? 4. Which movie character has a pet cat called Mr. Bigglesworth? 5. The abbreviation Mrs. was originally a contraction of which longer word? 6. On a children’s TV show first broadcast in 1965, what was operated by Mr. Rusty? 7. Which literary character was found at a London railway station by Mr. and Mrs. Brown? 8. In the Beatrix Potter novel The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, what type of animal was the title character? 9. What did Mrs. Cobbitt sell on the TV show Trumpton? 10. Which two dwarfs from Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs can become Mr. Men from Roger Hargreaves’ series of books by putting “Mr.” in front of their names?
love
Slimming World Join a warm and friendly group near you today…
TUESDAY Worcester Park Wesley Halls, Christ Church with St Philip, Ruskin Drive KT4 7LG 9.30am Tel: Justine 020 8942 6117 Worcester Park Doris Venner Youth & Community Centre, Manor Drive KT4 7LG 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Vanessa 020 8288 0718
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up to
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– ask in group for more details
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WEDNESDAY Surbiton Surbiton New Life Baptist Church, 1 Balaclava Road KT6 5PW 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm and 7.30pm Tel: Justine 020 8942 6117
FRIDAY New Malden The Graham Spicer, 15 Dukes Avenue KT3 4HL 9.30am Tel: Vanessa 020 8288 0718
THURSDAY New Malden The Graham Spicer, 15 Dukes Avenue KT3 4HL 9.30am, 5.15pm & 7.00pm Tel: Vanessa 020 8288 0718
slimmingworld.com 0844 897 8000
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Sudokus
fairly easy
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not so easy
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WE BUY UNWANTED and JEWELLERY AND SCRAP Better prices paid than companies currently advertising on TV!!
A T B I B R 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: 12
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4 letters: 3
5 letters: 1
6 letters: 1
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Finance Pensions Rules are Changing: What You Need to Know By Ann Haldon
If you’re confused by drawdown, annuity, tax wrappers and pots, you are definitely not alone. It sometimes feels like politicians are being deliberately obtuse - why don’t they use plain English when talking about pensions so we all know where we stand on this important issue? Although other choices are available, including property or stocks and shares, saving into a private pension does offer the following tax advantages: • The government pays tax relief on your payments • You’re not taxed on the money in your pension pot (up to certain limits) • At pension age you can withdraw a percentage of your pension as a tax-free lump sum But what about the State Pension – won’t that provide the income I need in retirement? State Pension rules are set to change from 2016 when a weekly flat rate will be introduced. These are some of the new rules, should you reach State Pension age on or after April 6th 2016: - The full pension amount will be a minimum of £148.40 per week (the actual amount to be decided upon in late 2015) • At least 10 qualifying years are needed to receive the new State Pension • The total number of qualifying years for eligibility has increased from 30 to 35 Auto enrolment Auto enrolment is new legislation that obliges employers to offer eligible employees a workplace pension. The new scheme, which was introduced in October 2012, is being rolled out to include all UK employers by February 2018. Currently, if you earn a minimum annual salary of £10,000, are aged between 22 years and the State Pension age, and work under a contract of employment in the UK, you are entitled to automatic enrolment on a workplace pension. New legislation regarding annuities Until recently, when you retired you had no other option but to use your pension fund to buy an annuity. Annuities
provide you with a fixed income for life, and even though the legislation has now changed, this product may still offer the most stable income for you in retirement. The 2014 Budget saw changes to pension legislation. From 2015 you will not be forced to buy an annuity with your pension fund, but can use the money in other ways. As a general rule, people choose the ‘income drawdown’ option, an annuity, or a mixture of the two. What is income drawdown? Income drawdown is an alternative to buying an annuity. You buy stocks, shares and other investments and take a regular income by cashing them in over time, with 25% of each ‘drawdown’ being tax-free. If you are not risk averse and you have a larger pension pot of £100,000 or more, the rewards can be greater. Income drawdown is a complicated option with high fees and charges, and it will not be right for everybody, but there is a middle-ground that offers the security of an annuity with a little more flexibility. An investment-linked annuity There are two types of investment-linked annuity: • Unit-linked: these depend on the performance of stocks, shares and other investments • With-profits: these retain part of your return in highperforming years for use if investment performance declines Charges and fees for pension products can be high, and serve to reduce the overall value of your fund. That’s why you need the advice and guidance of a professional financial expert to cut through the jargon, clearly explain what you are buying, and tell you the true cost of the product.
To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915
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020 8330 7557 - Sales 020 8330 7887 - Lettings www.brownsresidential.co.uk
Worcester Park £899,950 • Detached Family Home
• Four/Five Bedrooms
• Three Bath/Shower Rooms
• Kitchen/Family Room
• 25’ Reception
• Extensive S/W Garden
• Detached Double Garage
• Premier Residential Road
• EPC Rating C
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Worcester Park ● Stoneleigh ● Ewell ● New Malden ● Cheam Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers
2015
Browns Residential look forward to helping you move.
£600,000 Worcester Park
£550,000 Worcester Park
• Family Semi • Three Bedrooms • Two Receptions • EPC Rating D
• Un-extended Chalet • Two/Three Bedrooms • S/W Facing Garden • EPC Rating E
£599,950 Worcester Park
£525,000 Worcester Park
• Semi Detached • Three Bedrooms • Landscaped Garden • EPC Rating E
• Extended Detached House • Three Bedrooms • Large Through Reception • EPC Rating F
Browns Residential
Park House, Park Terrace, Worcester Park, Surrey KT4 7JZ Email:
sales@brownsresidential.co.uk To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915 lettings@brownsresidential.co.uk
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3
34 Stonecot Hill, Sutton Surrey, SM3 9HE Tel: 020 8337 2626
WandsWorth
020 8874 1781
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Please remember to mention Worcester Park Life when you speak to our advertisers
What’s On Give blood
Book an appointment by calling 0300 123 23 23 St Philip, Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park KT4 8LG 16 April 2 to 4.30pm 5.30 to 8pm Sutton, The Thomas Wall Centre, Benhill Avenue, Sutton, Surrey., SM1 4DP 5 March 2 to 4.30pm 5.30 to 8pm St James’s Church Hall, Bodley Road, New Malden KT3 5QE 11th March 2 to 4.30pm 5.30 to 8pm A.F.C Wimbledon Football Club, Jack Goodchild Way, 422A Kingston Road KT1 3PB 2nd April, 2014 2 to 4.30pm 5.30 to 8pm
Local Markets
Cheam Village Friday Market Small indoor market with 28 stalls held in Cheam Parochial Rooms, The Broadway, Cheam Village, Surrey. Helping the Royal Marsden Hospital. Market Days: Friday North Cheam Farmers’ Market – 3rd Saturday of every month, 9.30am-1.30pm, North Cheam Crossroads outside the Post Office, KT4 8SG. Christmas Market: Saturday 21st December New Malden Farmer’s Market 1st Saturday of the month The car park beside the Foutain Pub 9am to 2pm Surbiton Farmers Market Maple Road 3rd Saturday of the month 9am-1pm
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; admission £2.50; cars via Cheam Gate. For further information please visit the website at www.friendsofnonsuch.co.uk
Bourne Hall
The March Kids club will be Vile Victorian Childhood 7 March 1pm to 2.30pm £5 per child For the poor Victorian child there was no childhood just hard and dangerous work without any protection services. They went down the mines; because they were small and could manoeuvre in tight spaces, up chimneys working in factories and laundry. They
worked making matches, pottery and scared birds from the fields also as domestic servants. Many were forced outside the law as pick pockets and sailed close to the wind as rat catchers and street sellers How would you manage living on the streets, cold, hungry and often ill? Meet folk from the Victorian underbelly the great unwashed and discover the vile Victorian childhood. The Ragged Victorian Living History group will be here to talk about children in the 1850s including beggars, chimney sweeps, those working from dawn to dusk in the fields, and the luckier children of the upper classes. We will be bringing along a Peeler a Victorian policeman to keep you in order, and giving you the chance to play with some Victorian toys here are fairies at the bottom of the garden… and you can see them if you come to Bourne Hall for the popular Herald of Spring festival on Saturday 14th March. The building will be transformed with springtime imagery of flower fairies and garden goblins, in a celebration of nature and green spaces in Epsom and Ewell. Floral displays provided by Ashtead Nurseries will form the central feature, supported by children’s activities from the Hobbledown Mysterical Adventure, with demonstrations of rustic skills and a craft fair adding to the entertainment. The St. Mary’s Morris Men will welcome the spring, Huxley’s Birds of
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Prey will show the flying skills of hawks and falcons and the Woodland Trust will let visitors share in the creation of the national memorial wood on Epsom Downs. There will be a treasure hunt for the fairies hidden in the garden, and a chance for children to enter the fancy dress competition as a little sprite. Herald of Spring is open from 9 to 5 at Bourne Hall in Ewell Village, KT17 1UF.
to Cheek, The Continental, A Fine Romance, Night and Day, Change Partners and many others crooned by charismatic entertainer, Robert Habermann. Breaking Mongolia 5 March From the Altai Mountains, across the Gobi Desert to the Mongolian Steppe, Ash Dykes walked Mongolia, solo and set a world record by exceeding 1500 miles. Pulling a 120kg cart of provisions, he battled sandstorms, heat exhaustion and dehydration and become known as the ‘lonely snow leopard; acknowledgement of the respectful distance kept by the dangerous wild wolves. In Breaking Mongolia: The Lonely Snow Leopard, Ash covers the challenges he faced, and the determination required, to achieve this incredible feat. Illegal Eagles 6 March 2015 Now established as the world’s official No.1 Eagles tribute, the Illegal Eagles have over 15 years international touring experience. Classical ‘Vienna - Classic & Romantic’ 7 March 2015 Mahler’s beautiful and dramatic 4th Symphony is the highlight of the Epsom Symphony Orchesrtra’s Spring concert which also features Mozart’s effervescent Haffner Symphony. Westenders 8 March 2015 ENJOY A NIGHT IN THE WEST END AT YOUR LOCAL THEATRE! WestEnders present their new show THE WORLD’S MOST POPULAR MUSICALS, A Gala Concert celebrating Les Miserables and the world’s most popular musicals. Mike Barry’s Uptown Gang 9 March Expect a lively evening with Mike & ‘the boys’ Bands and Lineups are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstance. September in the Rain 18 Mar 21 Mar John Godber’s heart-warming comedy tells the story of Jack
Epsom Playhouse,
Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5AL (01372) 742555 / 742227
Syd Lawrence Orchestra 3 March The “Best Big Band in the Land” directed by Chris Dan brings you not only sincere musical virtuosity, but as much confidence in the music as when it was the latest smash on the airwaves. With a different show every night, see a truly hypnotic combination, all presented with a mixture of fun, laughter, excitement and comedy to make for a swinging and memorable evening. Hear the music of the swing era brought back to life with the youthful verve that made it the smash hit pop music of it’s day. Featuring the music of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Quincy Jones, Billy May, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and many more. Fred & Ginger: The Story of Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers 5 March The story of the great dancing pair of the thirties with some of the fantastic songs they introduced into their series of films. The show not only covers the eight great films they appeared in, but also coves the career of Astaire after Ginger left him to develop her own career. Songs include: Top Hat, Cheek
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and Liz as they recall their annual holidays in Blackpool, from their first trip as newlyweds to their final visit in old age. Join us as we share their memories filled with tears and laughter in a golden age of donkey rides, talent contests, ice-creams, rolled up trouser legs and stripy deck chairs along the wet and windy promenades during September in the Rain. Puppetry of the Penis 19 March From the West End of London to Broadway in New York, the boys have stretched themselves to the limit for over a ‘dickade’ performing the hilarious Ancient Art of Genital Origami and now they are back for more! Delivering an unforgettable evening of comic brilliance to sell-out performances around the world, this mind-blowing show features two strapping Australians who manipulate their genitals into various shapes, objects and landmarks. A video camera projects intimate details of these incredible phenomena onto a large screen ensuring that little can be missed! Richard Digance 20 March Richard is a BAFTA Nominated entertainer and a Gold Award recipient from The British Academy of Composers and Songwriters. He is also listed in the Virgin Anthology of Music as an influential writer of comedic songs. 2015 sees Richard mixing live shows with art exhibitions around the country. Folk club dates are available only in March and April. Richard’s new album ‘Searching’ is now available featuring the songs that proved to be so successful at the various 2014 festivals, including Searching and Ginger Rogers Travelling Wilburys 21 March SIX PIECE BAND featuring Five top class tributes in one spectacular show : Roy Orbison, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne & Tom Petty plus drummer. Paying homage to the legendary 1980’s super group The Travelling Wilburys The Gresty / White Tagtimers 23 March 2015 Join them for a visit to the Golden age of Jazz Tags Epsom & Ewell Schools’ Music Festival 24 Mar - 25 Mar Enjoy a fantastic evening at this, our the Epsom and Ewell Schools’ Music Festival. Children from our local infant, junior, primary, secondary and specialist schools have come together to showcase their incredible enthusiasm and talents. They will dazzle you with their singing and performing. Second Best Bed 26 March 2015 Shakespeare famously on his death left his wife Anne only one thing - the second best bed. The ‘Second Best Bed’ is an acute and thought provoking look into the lives of William Shakespeare and his wife, Anne Hathaway, who appears to know more than credited with the great bard’s works. The Shadow of Cliff 26 March 2015 Jimmy Jemain has been Voted The Official UK No.1 Cliff Richard Tribute Act for 2013. If you missed Jimmy’s starring role in “Cliff The Musical” in London’s West then don’t worry sit back and relax, you are in for a Great Show. Jimmy Jemain is a World Class performer, his Tribute to Cliff Richard is very professional and portrays the love and respect he has for Cliff Richard, The Shadows and their Music throughout the Decades. Aladdin 27 March Join Ballet Theatre UK in this dazzling re-telling of this exotic classic tale, boldly brought to life through the entrancing magic of classical ballet. Tricked by an evil sorcerer Aladdin sets out on a quest to in search of the ultimate treasure. Deceived Aladdin is left alone in a dark and damp cave where he will uncover a life changing object - a dusty old lamp. With just one rub of the magical lamp Aladdin’s journey will sweep you into an exotic wonderful world of daring adventure, enchanting spells,
unbelievable riches, treachery and of course true love. PtO Romeo and Juliet Easter workshop 28 March PtO Theatre Education presents Easter Shakespeare Workshop Age 10-16 ‘Romeo and Juliet’ by William Shakespeare. 28 March - 1 April Join Pull the Other for their 5 day ‘ROMEO AND JULIET’ that introduces Shakespeare’s famous star crossed lovers in a fun fuelled, highly energised and imaginative environment. Two influential feuding families are ignited through a secret forbidden love, but all secrets can’t be kept hidden forever. With passions running high there are turbulent and tragic consequences. Jongleurs March 31 March Back by popular demand, Jongleurs comedy is returning to The Epsom Playhouse! They tore the roof off last time, so now the country’s best stand-up comedians are gracing our stage once more. 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! Line up subject to change. Suitable for over-18s only That’ll Be The Day 2014-2015 Tour 2 April It’s party time again as the legendary That’ll Be The Day, the nations favourite rock ‘n’ roll variety show returns with another opportunity to see its latest production! Instant Sunshine 12 April Instant Sunshine returns to the Playhouse with their timeless humour and what has been described as their artisan repertoire of musical satire, which brightens up the dullest of days. Graham Hughes’ Sunshine Kings 13 April Another chance to hear this popular young band. Bands and Line-ups are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstance. Tony Jacobs Celebrates Gershwin 15 April Tony Jacobs celebrates Gershwin, Tony returns to Epsom Playhouse with another programme of songs and music celebrating the genius of one of the worlds greatest songwriters Gershwin. Stewart Francis Pun Gent Tour 16 April “A brilliant comic brain... this stand-up cracks some of the best one liners I’ve ever heard” - Guardian
The Rose Theatre
Sat 28 Feb – Sat 21 Mar Rose Productions present ROMEO + JULIET Romeo and Juliet is the explosive story of an intense passion between the son and daughter of sworn enemies. Risking everything to be together, their tragedy is played out in a divided city where lives are ruled by secrets and fear. Celebrated for her remarkable story-telling and inventive adaptations of all-time classics, director Sally Cookson once again collaborates with composer Benji Bower to bring their unique approach to the most beautiful and passionate of Shakespeare’s plays. Sun 22 Mar, 7.30pm FASCINATING AIDA: CHARM OFFENSIVE Following a sold-out 2013 tour, three Olivier Award nominations and over 10 million YouTube hits for Cheap Flights (their infamous anthem to budget air travel), Dillie Keane, Adele Anderson and Liza Pulman continue to celebrate over 30 years of Fascinating Aïda with their terrific new show Charm Offensive. Expect topical new songs hot off the press, plus some outrageous old favourites, as Fascinating Aïda continue
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to grow old disgracefully! Fri 27 Mar, 8pm ONE MAN BREAKING BAD Sixty Episodes. One Show. Yo! Join us on a rip roaring ride through the greatest television show ever made. LA actor Miles Allen smacks the senses with his super-charged, crazily accurate renditions of all the iconic characters, including Walter White, Jesse, Saul, Skyler, Hank, Walt Junior, Mike and Gus Fring. Sun 29 Mar, 7.30pm Comedy Store March Every famous comic has graced The Comedy Store’s stage at some point in the last 30 years and their critically acclaimed shows remain the place to see the stars of tomorrow today. Tue 31 Mar – Sat 4 Apr, 7.30pm Mat: 2.30pm Thu & Sat Mischief Theatre Company Presents PETER PAN GOES WRONG The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society set out to present J.M. Barrie’s classic tale of Peter Pan, but as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong…does, as the accident prone thesps embark on a thrilling adventure to Neverland, with hilariously disastrous results. Terrific fun for all ages, don’t miss this hysterical new laugh out loud comedy. Wed 8 – Thu 9 Apr THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN The international hit show with bubble art, magic, science and LOTS of fun. Louis Pearl is the world’s leading Bubbleologist and has been delighting family audiences with his unique show for nearly 30 years. Fabulously entertaining, he explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combines comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized. Fri 10 – Sat 11 Apr Showstopper Productions presents
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THE FANTASTICAL STORY FACTORY A musical adventure which will have you exploring magical kingdoms, meeting wonderful characters and singing along by the end. YOU decide where the story is set, what happens next and who the characters are. You can even join in if you want to! An improvised musical adventure for kids of all ages - and adults who act like kids! Everything is made up on the spot entirely from audience suggestions. If your children could create their very own dream musical – what would it be? Tue 14 – Sat 25 Apr Rose Productions, Headlong and Sheffield Theatres present THE ABSENCE OF WAR It’s now or never for George Jones. The charismatic leader of the Labour Party needs to get out of opposition and into Number Ten. A vigorous new production of David Hare’s funny, stinging political drama on a timely national tour during the build-up to the 2015 General Election. Tue 28 Apr – Sat 2 May Children’s Touring Partnership presents THE BOY IN THE STRIPED PYJAMAS Based on the best-selling novel by John Boyne, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is a heart-wrenching tale of an unlikely friendship between two innocent boys. Set during World War II, the story is seen through the innocent eyes of Bruno, the eight-year-old son of the commandant at a concentration camp, whose forbidden friendship with a Jewish boy on the other side of the camp fence has startling and devastating consequences.
Bruno’s friendship with Shmuel takes him from innocence to revelation, revealing the poetic irony that through a child’s eye everyone can appear the same.
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An independent preparatory An independent independentpreparatory preparatory An school for boys and girls schoolfor for boys and andgirls girls school aged 3boys to 11 years. aged3 3toto11 11 years. years. aged
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“The pupils’ overall success is a result of highly Tel: 020 8942 0754an outstanding effective teaching, Email: info@thestudyschool.co.uk www.thestudyschool.co.uk Tel: 020 8942 Website: 0754 Email: www.thestudyschool.co.uk estu curriculum 5 7info@thestudyschool.co.uk T h e t f o r d R o a d , and N eWebsite: w M a wide l d e n K T 3 extra-curricular 5DP 5 7experience, T h e t f oT r d R o a d , N e as w M awell l d e n K Tas 3 5 D the P pupils’3 dependent preparatory hool for boysexcellent and girls attitudes to learning.” own
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upils’ overall success is a result y effective teaching, an outstanding lum and wide extra-curricular experience, as well as the Email: info@thestudyschool.co.uk own excellent attitudes to learning.” Independent Schools Inspectorate report
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Gardening Facing North
by Pippa Greenwood The problem I am asked about most frequently is one that almost all of us have: “What do I do with a north-facing wall?” What everyone wants to know is what you can plant up it but more, what can you do to turn your luck around and increase the chances of your chosen plant not just surviving but also thriving. Getting the right plant for the spot is essential and I’ve listed some great north-facing wall climbers below. But first consider whether you need year round cover (and so something evergreen) or would accept a deciduous climber that will lose its leaves but keep a framework of stems, or if you could live with an herbaceous climber that will die back each year and return again in the spring.
Self-clinging climbers such as the climbing hydrangea or a variegated ivy can look great and help to provide at least part of the interest you’re after for your north-facing wall, but even these often need a bit of a helping hand to get them started – train the stems on to the wall and protect from wind until they get properly attached.
Flowering may be reduced if the site is gloomy and so to maximise your climber’s flower power make sure that you apply sulphate of potash as this will increase flowering potential. Follow the instructions on the pack, and generally try to apply it to the root area in late summer and then again in spring.
Top plants for north-facing walls and fences - Akebia quinata. Pretty pale green foliage with vanilla perfumed purple-brown flowers in late spring. - Berberidopsis coralline. Prefers acidic soil, clusters of deep red flowers in early autumn. - Clematis. Many smaller flowered varieties such as white flowered, rampant C. montana do well. - Codonopsis convolvulacea. Pretty bell or saucer shaped violet coloured flowers in summer. - Humulus lupulus (the hop). The golden leafed ‘Aurea’ will perform quite well as long as the shade is not too intense or the site windy. - Hydrangea anomela petiolaris A deciduous climber with broad creamy white flowerheads. - Lathyrus latifolius. the everlasting pea. Small clusters of pinky purple flowers throughout the summer and in to early autumn - Lonicera x Americana. Classic honeysuckle flowers in yellow flushed red and with a gorgeous perfume during the summer. - Lonicera x tellamanniana. Bright yellowy orange honeysuckle flowers in late spring and summer. - Vitis coignetiae. Renowned for its fabulous autumn colour.
Make sure that the climber goes in at a good distance from the wall up which it is to grow. A minimum of about 45cm (18in) should mean that it can develop a good strong root system and this will help to keep it growing well.
Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ veg growing system, biological controls, fleece, copper tape and lots more besides.
If the wall is very shaded it may be worth reducing the shade if you can. Nearby wall-shrubs could be pruned back or overhanging trees crown lifted (the lower branches removed) or crown thinned (the crown’s density reduced). Walls may be a dark grey or brick colour but you can make the spot considerably more plant friendly if you change the colour of the wall before planting. A palecoloured masonry paint on the wall will cause light to be reflected back to the plant and make it more likely to thrive. Consider growing more than one climber to increase the season of interest and so the amount of time that the wall looks good.
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Events Mother’s Day around the World By Alison Runham
Mothers deserve attention all year round, so as 15th March approaches, we might wonder why we only celebrate mothers on one special day - and if other countries follow suit. The UK Our Mother’s Day originates from ‘Mothering Sunday’ (the fourth Sunday in Lent) when people returned to their baptismal ‘mother church’. As this was often close to their parents’ home, over time it became a holiday for visiting family. Flowers were gathered for mothers on the way home, and mums received Simnel cakes (giving the day the alternative title of ‘Refreshment Sunday’, as breaking the Lent fast was permitted). However, Mother’s Day had gradually withered until Constance Smith, inspired by Anna Jarvis’ U.S. campaign, revived it in 1920. By 1938 Mothering Sunday was celebrated throughout the Empire, and is now widely known as Mother’s Day. Around the World Most countries have a Mother’s Day, but origins and traditions vary. Unless stated, the countries below follow U.S. tradition, as most countries do, celebrating on the second Sunday in May.
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Germany, concerned about its low birth rate, introduced Mother’s Day to celebrate women with large families. In 1938 the government began awarding the Mother’s Cross (Mutterkreuz) in bronze (for 4 children), silver, or gold (for mothers with eight children or more). Today Germans celebrate modern Muttertag with a family day out, often ending with dinner at a restaurant. In France, American soldiers introduced their version of Mother’s Day during the First World War, sending so much Mother’s Day mail that a special postcard was created for them. Originally focussed on mothers of large families, today the Fête des Mères on the last Sunday in May celebrates all mothers, who traditionally receive a cake shaped like a bouquet of flowers. Sweden also celebrates
on this day. Their Red Cross sells plastic flowers in aid of deprived mothers. In Italy, mums receive a heart-shaped cake while families in Finland go out early to gather flowers for their mums. On the second Sunday before Christmas, children in Serbia tie their mother up, not releasing her until she agrees to give them treats. Egypt’s Mother’s Day on 21st March was introduced in 1956, after a journalist heard about a son who abandoned his mother, showing no gratitude for her years of care. It’s now spread throughout the Arab world. Celebrations include songs especially devoted to mothers. In Nepal, children return to the family home on Mata Tritha Puja or “Aama ko Mukh Herne Din” (meaning “to see Mother’s face”), on the last day of Baishak dark fortnight (April/May). They make breakfast for their mothers and give them gifts, favourite foods and new clothes. Those who have lost their mother visit Mata Tirtha, a sacred site with a pool in which people can ‘look upon their mother’s face’, or visit a local holy site, offering sweets, fruits and money to commemorate their mother. Legends name Mata Tirtha as the place where a cowherd saw his dead mother’s face in the pool while praying - or as the place where Lord Krishna found his missing mother, Devaki (who declared it a sacred place for children to reunite with departed mothers). The USA didn’t keep English Mother’s Day, but Anna Jarvis campaigned for a Mother’s Day in honour
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of her mother, who had introduced “Mothers’ Friendship Day” after the Civil War. At a church service on the second anniversary of her mother’s death (the second Sunday of May), Anna handed out her mother’s favourite flowers: white carnations. Today a coloured carnation signifies a mother still living while a white carnation honours mothers who have passed away. It became a national holiday in 1914. In Australia, Mother’s Day grew from Janet Heyden’s campaign to give gifts to lonely inmates of Newington State Home for Women. Schoolchildren in Japan draw pictures of their mothers for a nationwide competition and winning pictures travel the country in a mobile exhibition. In Mexico, Mother’s Day on 10th May - once a pawn in the battle between government and church on modernisation, women’s roles and U.S. materialist influence – now celebrates both mothers and the Virgin Mary. Children often arrive at their mother’s house the night before. Traditionally the day starts with mass before mothers are presented with a breakfast of tamales and atole, a hot drink made
Hair Solutions By Nicci M Mobile Hairdresser
from hominy, but many mothers are now treated to breakfast, flowers and gifts at home, accompanied by a song. In Paraguay, Mother’s Day is celebrated on 15th May on Dia de la Patria (Independence Day), to honour Juana María de Lara’s role in winning Paraguay’s independence. Similarly, Bolivia’s Dia de la Madre Boliviana on 27th May commemorates the women killed fighting for independence in the Battle of Coronilla. In Ethiopia, their ‘Antrosht’ celebration lasts three days, beginning on a flexible date after the rains have ceased (usually October/November). Traditionally, mothers cook a special meal but daughters provide the dairy products, vegetables and spices while sons must bring the meat. After the meal, there are traditional songs and dances. So why not celebrate Mexican-style this year and sing your Mum a song? www.alison.runham.co.uk
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Safer Neighbourhoods Protecting your vehicle Thefts from motor vehicles are at best, annoying and inconvenient. But at worst, they can be both expensive and heart breaking. Access to vehicles has been gained in a substantial number of thefts without having to force entry. This means that the vehicles may have been left either insecure or unlocked, or the thieves are finding new and clever ways of effecting entry. Did you know that…? - Most vehicle crime is preventable. It can take as little as 10 seconds for a thief to steal something from your car. If at all possible, leave nothing on view. - NEVER leave any valuable items in your car, including sunglasses, removable radio covers and your Sat Nav. Do you really need all those things you keep in the glove box? - Wipe away the Sat Nav mark on your windscreen. - Consider fitting anti-tamper screws to your number plates. - NEVER leave your car keys where they can be seen from the front door or through your letterbox. Vehicle common sense ALWAYS - Close the windows and sunroof; lock the doors and activate any security devices when leaving your car unattended. - Park with care, particularly at night or if you are leaving the vehicle for a long period. If possible, park in a busy, well-lit area. - Lock your car always. Even if it’s right outside your front door on the driveway and also check the door manually if you use a key fob. NEVER - Leave cash, credit cards, cheque books, mobile phones, vehicle documents or indeed ANY OTHER VALUABLES in the car. - Never leave your keys in the car, even for a second - treat them as you would any of your other valuables. Be vigilant at all times, and should you become aware of a car crime in progress: DO NOT: Approach or make yourself known to the criminal.
an invisible vantage point, make a note of descriptions, vehicles (including registration numbers), and even the direction in which the criminal/s make off. The most important thing is to stay safe and do not worry, the probability is that you probably won’t be affected by a crime of this type. But we must always be alert and aware. The more precautions we take, the less likely it will be that these criminals will frequent your area. Any information you may be able to give us will be received in the strictest confidence. Please continue to help us make Worcester Park and Nonsuch among the safest wards in London. Thank you
WORDWHEEL
Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.
TARGET Excellent: 36 or more words Good: 28 words Fair: 25 words
C
P
D
R U
E
DO: Call 999, note the time, and if possible from
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Clubs
To feature in this section email info@wplife.co.uk
Mondays
Do you enjoy listening to show tunes, big band music, jazz, light classics etc? Come along to an evening of live music played by top artistes. We meet on the second Monday of each month at our Banstead venue Banstead Organ & Keyboard Club Church Institute Hall, High Street, Banstead SM7 2NN 9th March - Darrell Harvey 13th April - Steve Hubble Doors open 7pm for 7:30pm start.(Visitors £7) Visitors & new members are always welcome to our concerts. Further details from 020 8330 5795, or visit www. bansteadorganclub.co.uk Worcester Parkers Women’s Institute meet on the 3rd Monday of every month 7.45pm to 9.45pm at Christchurch with St Philip Church Hall in Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park. For more information contact Dawn Penn 0208 337 4361 wi.worcesterparkers@gmail.com *There is currently a waiting list. Cheam Common Art Group Small friendly Art Group who meet at CHRIST CHURCH with ST PHILIP Ruskin Road, Worcester Park on Monday evenings 7.30 – 9.30 p.m. Welcome new members just to draw and paint in any medium without tuition. If interested come down for an evening and meet us to see whether this is for you Brenda Banks 020 8330 0928 Worcester Park Over 60’s Welcome Club meet every Monday from 1pm to 3pm at Christ Church with St Philip Church Hall in Ruskin Drive. Worcester Park. All over 60’s welcome to join us for a cup of tea and a biscuit or two, plus some outstanding entertainment in the way of singers and musicians. One Monday a month we have Bingo and every Monday we run a raffle. Days outings to the coast are organised throughout the summer months, and mid week holidays are organised two or three times a year. Come a little earlier and meet up with some friends and have a chat before the entertainment starts. We would love to see you. Contact Joyce on 020 8330 5065. The ladies After Eight Club meet on the 2nd Monday of every month from 8pm onwards at Christchurch with St Philips church hall. We have interesting speakers, outings and dinners and all are welcome for a small subscription to cover our costs. Just come along and join in. Please contact Carol on 020 8337 2452 for further information
Tuesdays
The Worcester Park Dramatic Society is a local amateur drama group of long standing. We stage two major productions a year at the Adrian Mann
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Theatre in Ewell, in April and November. We meet every Tuesday and most Fridays at 8.15 pm in the Elmcroft Community Centre in North Cheam, on the Sainsbury’s site. Apart from play readings, rehearsals and set construction, we have quiz nights and various social events. We also arrange group outings to amateur and professional theatre productions. We welcome new members to help us stage future productions, anyone willing to act or work backstage. If interested, please contact our membership secretary, Joyce Cranfield, on 020 8337 3317. “Lunch Break” - a friendly lunch club for those retired, meeting on a Tuesday 12-2pm (term time only) at Worcester Park Baptist Church, The Avenue - free, but donations invited. Occasional speakers. Contact Brian on 020 8224 6675 or Rowena 07837 941298 NHS Retirement Fellowship- Local Branch Are you retired or about to retire from the NHS? Why not join us on the 1st Tuesday of every month from 10am -12 at Christ Church Hall, Christ Church Road, Surbiton, KT5 8JJ. We have speakers, activities, coffee & chat. Other outings & activities are also arranged during the month. For further details please contact Lorna on 020 8337 4121. Worcester Park Crafters We meet on the first Tuesday of each month in the hall at Christchurch with St Philip, Ruskin Drive, Worcester park,KT4 8LG. We meet from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. For further details please contact Lynne by E mail: lynnesinger@msn.com or phone on:020 8330 5903 Our aim is to provide a meeting/crafting place for all crafters whatever their craft or ability. Either bring your own work or purchase our kit of the month (small materials cost usually £2), come and play and chat. (small cost to over hall hire and insurance approx £4) Craft group - We meet at Christ Church with St Philip Ruskin Drive on the first TUESDAY of the month from 7.30-9.30pm A place where all crafters whatever their craft or ability can meet, craft, share ideas and learn from each other. Feel free to bring your own projects or you can try our project of the month Cost: £5 per session Lynne Singer 020 8330 3590 or Toni Shepherd 07900 006367
Wednesdays
Keep Fit Stay Fit every Wednesday 10.15-11.15am at Christ Church with St Philip, Ruskin Road. Come along and give it a try ! For more information please call Jo Hamilton on 020 8786 3444. The Probus Club of Ewell Coming up to retirement? Just retired? Looking to make new friends? Why not join the Probus Club of Ewell? Since it was founded over 40 years ago, the
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Probus Club of Ewell has been attracting businessmen from Worcester Park and its surrounding areas with a broad range of professional and business backgrounds. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month, usually at Bourne Hall in Ewell Village, for a Lunch followed by a Speaker. In addition to two Ladies Lunches during the year, there is an active social programme for members and their partners with visits to places of interest and West End Shows. If you would like to know more, please telephone our secretary, Bruce Urquhart, on 01737 373 690 or visit our website: http://4newmembers.ewell4probus.org.uk
Thursdays
Worcester Park Vegans. For vegans, and all who are interested in learning more about veganism. We meet on the second Thursday of each month in The Den (upstairs) at Christchurch with St Philip, Cheam Common Rd (corner of Ruskin Drive). We aim to start at 7pm and finish by 9pm. If possible please bring vegan food to share ( no meat, fish, eggs, cheese or honey). For more information please ring Wendy Edwards on 07740 082460 or email carol20754@gmail.com or look us up on Facebook. You don’t have to live in Worcester Park to come to our meetings - all who are genuinely interested are welcome. Vegans stand for respect for life - all life, not just human life. We believe in trying to live as gently on the earth as possible and in doing no intentional harm to any living creature. East Surrey Family History Society For those who are interested in finding out how to investigate their family history the Sutton Branch of the East Surrey Family History Society holds meetings on the first Thursday of the month at St Nicholas Church Hall, Robin Hood Lane. Most months we have a professional speaker. Further details of all our branch meetings, can be found at Our award winning website www.esfhs.org.uk 60+ Social Mixed Single Group We meet in a local pub every Thursday where we discuss outings for the weekends such as meal out, walking, theatre trips, cinemas and many other things. If you would like to join us please ring Maureen: 07761278661. Kingston Phoenix Road Club is a cycling club that meets at 8-30pm every Thursday at Worcester Park Athlete Club, Green Lane, Worcester Park. The club was founded in 1936 and currently has a membership of 70. We cater for riders of all ages whether they are novices or experienced and our oldest rider is 84 years old who is still racing and holds several national age related records. Malden Emergency First Aid Society (MEFAS) members meet every Thursday evening from 7.30 to 10pm. The public is invited to join members on short training courses. For further details please see MEFAS web site at http://e-voice.org.uk/mefas/ or telephone 020 8942 8653 or 07966661015
Breathe Easy (Merton & Sutton) Group. Wheezy? Breathless? you are not alone, come and join us at your local friendly support & information group for anyone affected by a lung condition. We meet between 2-4 pm on the 3rd Thursday of every month at the Scill Centre 3 Robin Hood Lane Sutton For more information please contact George on 0208 647 7530 Thursday Fellowship. Every Thursday at 2.30pm for men and women, finishing with a cup of tea and biscuits or cakes. A lively, friendly meeting at Worcester Park Baptist church in The Avenue. Well-known, familiar hymns and prayers, musical afternoons, and a variety of speakers on topical subjects, including help and advice. New members welcome. For more information ring Jean Gathercole on 020 8642 9649 The Worcester Park Hello Club launched last November and is welcoming new members! We meet every Thursday morning from 10am – 12 noon. The club is aimed at anyone who would like to come and join in with board games, quizzes, cards, occasional craft sessions - or just to have a chat and a coffee. Adults of any age are welcome to come and get to know each other. The main aims of the club are: • To meet new people and build friendships • To become involved with the local community • To access activities, information and advice The club is very friendly and informal. Every month there will be a member of staff attending from the SCILL Information & Advice Service – they have information on most topics for all your needs and will be pleased to assist you. The drop in club was set up by Sutton Vision, Christ Church with St Philip and SCILL , working together in partnership. We are fortunate to be provided with a welcoming and comfortable venue at the Christ Church with St Philip Community Hall. There are accessible toilets on site. There is a small charge for coffee and tea at the church café. If you would like to join us, please just turn up, or if you would like to speak to someone, please contact one of the following: SCILL 020 8770 4065 Sutton Vision 020 8409 7166 Christ Church with St Philip 020 8330 7630
Fridays
Bartlett House Residents Luncheon Club is a welcoming social club for the retired from work but not from life! Bartlett House, 49-51 The Avenue, Worcester Park, KT4 7HU. Catch up with friends every Friday 11am-4pm. This fun and friendly club is not for profit, ensuring prices are kept to a minimum so it won’t cost the earth! New members welcome. Contact Dot on 0208 330 2074 Quest was set up in 1987 to provide a meeting place for people with physical disabilities between the ages
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of 20 - 60. However, once a member there is no age cut off. The aim of the club is to provide a welcoming, caring atmosphere for the members and allow the carers to have a regular break. Annual subscription. and £2.50 for lunch. We have various social activities and every second month we have a speaker, outings can be arranged if enough people wish to go. The venue is St. Philip Hall, Christchurch with St. Philip, Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park. We meet the 2nd and 4th Fridays in the month from 12.45 to 4p.m Contact June Day, Club Secretary, on 02083301220 RSPB Epsom And Ewell Local Group We meet the 2nd Friday of every month at 7.30, apart from July and August, at All Saints Church Hall Fulford Road, West Ewell with guest speakers who illustrate their enthusiasm on a variety of natural history subjects. There is a small charge for non-members of the RSPB. If you would like more information, please look at our website, www.rspb.org.uk/groups/epsom Worcester Park Womens’ Club. We are part of the National Association of Womens’ Clubs and we meet at Cheam Common Junior School, Kingsmead Avenue every Friday from 7.30 to 9.30 (term time only). We have very interesting speakers, outings, a garden party in the summer and a quiz night rasising money for our chosen charity for the year. Why not come along and give us a try. For more information call Carole on 020 8337 6088.
do have a glitter ball!”. Ring David 07903 314276. Friday Nights for 2015: Jan2nd and 16th, Feb 6th and 20th, March 6th and 20th, Apr 3rd and 17th, May 1st and 15th, June 5th and 19th, July 3rd and 17th, Aug 7th, Sept 4th and 18th, Oct 2nd and 16th, Nov 6th and 20th, Dec18th National Trust - Epsom, Ewell and District Supporters GroupFormed in 1971, we run a varied programme of social eventswhich includes Evening Lectures at Bourne Hall in Ewell, once a month from Oct. to June, Coach Outings which visit historichouses and gardens(not necessarily N.T.),Guided London Walks, and other trips to London e.g.The Magic Circle, The Royal Opera House (backstage tour).Other special events include Coffee Mornings, Holidays and Christmas Lunch. Newsletters are produced four times a year.If you would like more information please visit our website: www.epsom-ewell-district-nt.co.uk or telephone Paul on 020 87158486 Malden Manor Bowls Club Manor Park, Malden Road. New members will be made very welcome. Roll ups, league matches, internal and external competitions; we offer bowling for all levels of interest and ability. Our open day this year will be on 16 May. For further details contact Men’s Secretary Gerald 020 8949 4623 or Ladies’ Secretary Malden Manor Bowls Club Where: Manor Park, Malden Road. Cheam High School Gym NO contract or joining fee, and just £15 a month. It has everything other gyms have, we also have a Personal Trainer on hand to help out and give
General
Auriol Bowling Club was established in 1967, and plays on the 6-rink bowling green attached to the pavilion in Auriol Park, Salisbury Road, Worcester Park. It is a mixed club of around 45 men and 25 women, who play outdoors from April to September, with a busy fixture list of league and friendly matches against other clubs, as well as internal club competitions. For further information please contact the club Secretary, David Regan, on 020 8337 8919 or visit the website at www.auriolbowlingclub.com. Cuddington Bowling Club will always welcome new members. The club is situated in Sandringham Road, Worcester Park and we play on an excellent 6 rink green that has been acclaimed by many of the club’s visitors this year. We are a mixed club with about 60 members and play a range of friendly and league fixtures catering for all abilities. For further information, please contact our Secretary Mike Ridley 02087158326 or our Treasurer Mark Broughton 02083379699. Social Dancing With “ Glitters” At Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell Village 8.15 pm – 11.00 pm Entrance 8.15 p.m. - 11 p.m.. Over 18s. £8 Entrance Fee. All standards of dancing. Excellent free parking. Bar. Professional DJ “We may not have Brucie, but we
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0208 394 2555 Sales@JacksonNoon.com Lettings@JacksonNoon.com
FEBRUARY 2015 UPDATE The importance of conversation There’s no way to sugar coat it, moving home is time consuming. The excitement begins with the dream home but can quickly fade as you move further toward the less exciting task of packing up one household and moving to another. As we suspected it is already a busy year and, at the time of going to press just 12 days in, we are well into our stride handling a lot of new enquiries and bringing to market a record number of properties. There is no doubt that finding your next home has been made easier in the internet age. Rightmove and Zoopla are one stop Estate Agent’s windows removing the painful need to trudge up and down windswept high streets registering multiple times in multiple offices. Clearly much more relaxed. Photos, floorplan and text all play their part in attracting potential buyers but people need to obtain the information uniquely relevant to them before they will commit precious time to a viewing. The internet and computers are, of course, wonderful things but at the end of the day they are just data providers and no substitute for proper conversation. Having identified two or three properties of interest, buyers will talk to the first and second agents but maybe run out of time to call the third, fourth or fifth. We know everyone is increasingly busy so we are never surprised to hear the sigh of relief as a buyer realises that, because of the large number of properties we bring to the market, they can chat to us about several they’ve noticed online, consider our suggestions as well as learning which homes are about to come to market. We feel it’s essential that when they take that next step they are able to talk to somebody who can really help. Every time we take on a property we talk about it. At length. Not by email, or on the phone, but face to face with our whole team. At least two of our team will have seen the property already, often more. Of course we start with the property details but, just like most people, we know there’s more to your property. Talking about it together, in person, makes the difference. It’s not about the words. WE could write those down. Conversation is about ensuring everybody can visualise the property and that’s much easier if you use your hands. Indeed it’s not unknown for mugs, staplers and pencils to be called upon to model as rooms, driveways, roads, buildings and local landmarks. We want to be sure that all team members understand our clients, their property and its features. It’s a proper conversation during which everybody can pool ideas, comments, and comparisons to make sure we all truly understand the property and discuss who would be interested in buying it. Of course there is always the possibility that a potential buyer will ask a question we hadn’t thought of. When that happens it really pays dividends that we all work under one roof as we can just turn round to ask a colleague who will know the answer. As the dominant agent in our area we have a lot of properties to talk about, and a lot of properties to talk to our buyers about. Computers have their place in the process but conversations help us understand the homes we are selling, and our buyers, in order to bring them together.
To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915
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The better life Ever Green
Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk
Sometimes it’s easy for me to forget that I grew up in a city. The only planting I did back then was with hyacinth bulbs at school, apart from the time I knocked over Mum’s cactus and repotted it upsidedown - it didn’t thrive. For reformed townies like us the Better Life remains a work-in-progress. Much like our garden, there’s always something to be done. Each month brings its own pleasures and responsibilities, keeping us connected to the seasons and the cycle of the year. Now that I have a firm grasp of crop rotation - albeit on a small scale due to the size of our garden - it’s mainly a case of following instructions. It’s a lot like learning the piano though: you have to keep at it and the early starts can sometimes
upset the neighbours. Some things take care of themselves. The interlinked water butts, for example, gravity fed from no 1 (aka John Lennon) high up on a wall, have so far kept us fully supplied all the way down to no 4 (aka Ringo) by the front gate. Other initiatives just take a little forethought. Each time we walk our neighbours’ dogs down to the woods we bring back a couple
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of walking sticks to dry out in the wood store. Creating compost seems to me the epitome of a greener existence – taking unwanted waste, using a minimum of know-how and a little forking, applying some patience and finally ending up with good quality, nutrient-rich material for the soil. Anne is really the one with green fingers, while I’m more of an enthusiast. I was, after all, the one who filled the world’s smallest conservatory with 16 sweet pepper plants, each of which reached a height of over 2ft 6ins (I measured them). Even our friends grew tired of filled peppers that year. Growing some of your own veg, whatever your level of confidence or ability, is surely one of life’s great joys. You can get from plot to plate with no food miles, no additives and no packaging. It’s really not difficult to have a go. Spuds can be grown in a hessian bag filled with soil, beans can be sprouted on a windowsill and all some herbs like marjoram or peppermint need is boundaries.
A more dynamic and diverse habitat encourages wildlife, especially pollinators such as butterflies, bees and wasps (yep, they have a part to play too). Again, lack of space is no excuse. We created a mini meadow that covered less than five square feet. The first year we bought seed impregnated paper and now we use yellow rattle to keep the grass down so that the wild flowers can flourish. Beyond the garden, we foraged seasonal wild garlic, apples, chickweed, nettle leaves, dandelion leaves and the ever-popular blackberries (where the freezer comes in handy). Moving forward - and because we live near the sea - I’ve signed us up for a coastal foraging day. I happen to know that there are tasty sea vegetables out there somewhere, as well as plenty of seaweed. It’s another opportunity to go green further afield. Anyway, that’s it for a while. I hope our little adventures have entertained you and hopefully inspired you to seek out your Better Life. Must dash, as Anne wants to teach me how to knit!
WORCESTER PARK RBL ENTERTAINMENTS TEAM PRESENTS...... WORCESTER PARK’S HOME OF ENTERTAIMENT Every First Wednesday of the Month is Bingo Night Hosted By The Womens Section. Every Friday is Crazy Joker Night. The First Friday of the Month is Party Night Disco’s and more. Every Third Friday live evening entertainment. Every Saturday Live Evening Entertainment. Various Theme Nights Up and Coming Colin Roy / Beatles Tribute to name a few. Sunday March 17th St Patrick’s day is Party Day with Music from 2pm and an IRISHCO (disco with a difference) from 4pm till late. Live Sky Sports for All sports / ESPN come in and watch your favourite team. Kitchen open Monday - Saturday / Midday- 2-30pm come in and enjoy some lunch with us. Don’t miss out become a MEMBER today just pop in and see us any time. To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915
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Books Open Links by Dom Holland
Local Perrier Award Winning Comedian Dominic Holland on his latest novel and what why all the proceeds are going to the Anthony Nolan Trust The famous playwright, Neil Simon in his brilliant autobiography explains the review that has been most helpful to him in his career. “Neil Simon did not have a good idea for a play this year, but he wrote one anyway.” I think this happens too often with novelists as well. A frequent question I am asked is why I have only written four novels and my answer is simple. To date I have only come up with four stories that are really worth telling. All of my novels are adult comic fairy-tales; books which I hope will make my readers feel happy and particularly so, my latest novel, Open Links. But why? Well, because its’ a good story I hope but also because all proceeds from OPEN LINKS are going to Anthony Nolan. So it’s a feel-good book which could also save someone’s life. Anthony Nolan is a charity that I have long supported. But my ‘support’ didn’t really amount to very much. As well as a small direct debit each month, I would attend their gala ball on Park Lane each year in my capacity of being a ‘celebrity’ (free tickets although I have always paid) - and at the slap up meal, I would be thanked and clapped just for attending, something which I have always found excruciating. So for a while I have had it in mind that I would like to do something a bit more worthy for the charity, something more than eating a nice meal. I was about to start writing Open Links and because I needed a character to have an illness, it made sense that I might choose a blood cancer. And whilst writing the novel, it occurred to me that I could donate the book to Antony Nolan.
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Frankly, there are too many very worthy charities but Anthony Nolan has always chimed with me because their results are very tangible. Each year they give up to 1400 people the chance to overcome a life threatening cancer and every year, some 700 people survive an illness who without Anthony Nolan would have died. And they appeal to me further because leukaemia and other blood disorders are completely indiscriminate and not based on any lifestyle choices. Just bad luck I suppose and later today it could be me diagnosed? Or my wife, my son, my mum… and if this were to happen, then our ultimate port of call would be Antony Nolan in the hope that someone somewhere had provided a tissue sample and might be a bone marrow match. Anthony Nolan cannot process all of the people willing to register their tissue type. They don’t have the funds to do so. So quite simply, the more funds they can raise, the more samples they can process on to their register and the more lives that they can save. This is an exciting prospect for me. I thoroughly enjoyed writing Open Links and I’m delighted that people might have fun reading it and in to the bargain, help a great charity to continue its extraordinary lifesaving work. Do you need an extra pair of hands? Then let me help you! Cleaning Ironing Gardening De-cluttering or any other projects Call Anna on:
07970 33206
Or leave me a message:
020 8336 1435
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To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915
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Recipe Smoked Haddock Kedgeree Just a few ingredients are needed to make this simple rice dish but it’s full of flavour! It’s ideal for a quick and easy supper or filling weekend brunch served with crusty bread or warmed mini naan breads, if liked. Serves 4 Ready in 45 minutes 350g smoked haddock fillet 4 large eggs 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed ½ tsp ground coriander ½ tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp mild curry powder 300g easy-cook basmati rice 3tbsp fresh chopped coriander 1 Place the haddock in a large pan, cover with plenty of cold water and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 5-6 minutes until the fish
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just flakes. Boil the eggs in a small pan of water for 7-8 minutes. 2 Remove the fish with a slotted spoon and flake the flesh discarding any skin and bones. Strain the cooking liquid into a jug – you’ll need about 600ml so top up with water if needed. Run the boiled eggs under cold water until cool enough to handle. Remove the shells and cut into wedges. Set aside. 3 Heat the oil in a large deep frying pan and fry the onion and garlic over a medium heat for 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in the spices and cook for 1 minute then add the basmati rice and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Gradually pour in the reserved stock and bring to the boil. 4 Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring occasionally. Gently stir in the flaked haddock, eggs and coriander and heat through for 1 minute. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately. Tip Add a large handful of baby spinach leaves or some lightly fried mushrooms just before the end of cooking to make this dish even more substantial.
We have been advertising for 3years in The Worcester Park Life Magazine and have had some fantastic responses to our adverts. Directly due to the many campaigns we have focused on our membership has increased as a direct result of the wide areas of circulation covered .Thank You Worcester Park Life keep up the good work. The Royal British Legion Worcester Park.
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Voice for Wildlife by Carol Williams Non native species Also known as ‘exotics’, aliens, non-indigenous and ‘invasives’, these are species of animals and plants which are in environments where they do not belong naturally. Most have been introduced through human agency, either deliberately, or accidentally in cargoes on our ships and planes. This is not new - it has been happening since the early 18th century and occasionally before this time, but has, of course increased in recent times with ease of world travel and the pet trade. Isolated island habitats can be seriously damaged by the presence of species which have not evolved there and do not, therefore, have a niche to fill that fits in harmoniously with the species already there. This has caused grave problems in places like Hawaii and New Zealand. Britain and Ireland, having become isolated from mainland Europe in more recent times (about 8,000 years ago) cope a little better with the influx of such invaders, but some species are causing massive problems. To name a few, there is the decline of the
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water vole due to the release or escape of American mink from fur farms, the disappearance of the red squirrel from most of its former range, because of the Amercan grey and, in our waterways, Japanese knotweed and American crayfish. Just a few causing enormous problems for our native flora and fauna. Which brings me closer to home, to a red eared terrapin dumped into Shadbolt Park pond by an unknown person whose action can only be described as environmentally irresponsible and cruel. In early February I took in a parcel for my nextdoor neighbour. When she knocked to collect it, she mentioned in conversation, that her small daughter’s class had been taken to see the pond and that they had spied a turtle in the water. My look of dismay at this information must have puzzled her. I thanked her for telling me and explained, briefly, that the presence of a turtle in a fresh water wildlife pond in the UK was not good news. These animals are predators who will eat anything small that moves. With the frogs due to arrive at any moment to spawn, this unwelcome news was rather depressing. I knew that we were going to have to try to locate the animal and remove it.
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Happily for the pond ecosystem, we succeeded. Unhappily for the individual reptile, which turned out to be a red eared terrapin, about 3 inches long, it appeared to be quite dead. From a site on the internet I learned that these terrapins can grow to 8 inches long, many die through inadequate care or disease, they need a water temperature of 24 to 26 C, they should be acclimatised to colder water for a few weeks indoors before being put into an outdoor pool, they get sick in dirty water, they need a basking area with a source of warmth ( a lamp if not the sun) and, if outside, a water depth sufficient to protect from frosts and allow them to burrow into the mud on the bottom to hibernate if the weather turns cold. On no account should they be tossed into an outdoor pond in the middle of a British Winter. Shadbolt Park pond ices over in severe weather. There is a notice on our board in the park, requesting people to not put fish, terrapins, bread, or anything else into this small, wildlife pond. Doing any of this
compromises the health of the wildlife in the water. The public is also requested to not climb the railings. We do not want people or dogs inside the fenced off area. The railings and locked gate are there for a reason. In the past, before its restoration (with volunteer labour and paid for by various grants), this area was a derelict waste dump that could not hold water. Now it is a thriving wildlife habitat. We who work there each week, watching and tending it, would very much like it to remain this way. Anyone keen to help maintain the pond and surrounds will be most welcome to join us on the site on Wednesday or Saturday mornings. Please email me on carol020754@gmail.com if interested. Also, anyone who fancies a bit of gardening, in good company, would be eagerly received by the Friends of the park in the Day Lily Garden on Saturday mornings (telephone Doreen Bennett for more information 0208 337 2366 or just turn up at 10.30 am).
To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915
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Kids Play
There’s lots going on for pre-schoolers
MUSIC CLASSES FOR UNDER 4’S
Monday
Worcester Park Baptist Church 9.30-11.30- a lively toddler group, where carers of any kind are welcome to attend and supervise their youngsters. Our age range is from young babies to 3-4 years. Sarah on 020 8393 7299 or email via the church’s website www.wpbc.org.uk Christ Church with St Philip Parent and Toddler Group is a very welcoming and relaxed place to meet new friends for yourself and your toddlers. We are open to all Mums, Dads, Grandparents and Carers. We meet in the Church Hall on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9.30 until 11.15am during term time
Tuesday
Toddling2Church, Christ Church with St Philip 2-3pm Parents, carers and pre-school children are all welcome to join us for songs with percussion instruments, a Bible story simply and sensitively told, a story-related craft activity and, of course, drinks and biscuits.
Wednesday
Christ Church with St Philip Parent and Toddler Group 9.30 until 11.15am - see Monday Worcester Park Baptist Church 9.30-11.30- see Monday. we have vacancies on a Wednesday
Friday
Christ Church with St Philip Parent and Toddler Group 9.30 until 11.15am - see Monday
Saturday
Men behaving Dadly, Grace Church - every 3rd Saturday of the month, 9.30 to 11 am, at Green Lane Primary School. For Dads and their pre-school children (0-4). The kids get to play with the toys, the Dads get a bacon roll and coffee, and Mums might possibly get a lie-in... £3 on the door. For more information & contact details, www.gracechurchworcesterpark.org Old Malden Library (Church Road, Worcester Park) Tuesdays, 10.30-11am, Rhyme time aimed at age 0-3 Tuesdays, 2.30-3pm, Story time aimed at age 3+
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Taught by a qualified Suzuki-method music teacher. Thursday At Worcester Park Library, Windsor Road, Worcester Park, KT4 8ES
Friday At Surbiton Library Halls, Ewell Road, Surbiton, KT6 6AG
9.45-10.30am Toddler class 10.35-11.20am Toddler class
10-10.45am Chinese music class (suitable for Chinese/ non- Chinese speaking families)
To book your place please contact Ginger on 07525 497 124 or email infomusicfun@gmail.com www.gingersmusicfun.com
If you are reading this then so too are your potential customers. Advertising costs from just £21 plus VAT a month.
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ABLE 2 BUILD & Sons ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING WORK
020 8337 6327 • 07889 255 097 www.able2build.co.uk To advertise email jenny@maldenmedia.co.uk or call 020 8336 2915
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Hobbies Why cards are still king when you want to play By Kate McLellan Fancy a game of Strip Jack Naked? Or maybe Black Maria? What about a quick hand of Snip Snap Snorum? If these activities sound strange you may be relieved to discover that they are all card games whose rules are now lost in the mists of time, along with other eccentric titles such as Nap, Piquet, Bezique, Pip-pip and Euchre. It’s probably no surprise to find that some games have fallen out of fashion over the centuries. What is surprising is that card games have managed to survive at all in this age of virtual gaming. Enter ‘card games’ into an internet search and you’ll find online versions of traditional games such as Rummy, Hearts, Solitaire, Blackjack, Bridge and Poker: all holding their own against phenomenally popular arcade-style games such as Tetris and Candy Crush. The fact that card games have survived into the 21st century speaks volumes about the enduring power of playing cards to fascinate and entertain us. It’s now widely believed that they were invented in China: some of the earliest references to card playing by the Chinese nobility date as far back as the 9th century. Because they were light and easy to transport, traders carried decks of cards abroad and so the fashion rapidly spread to Egypt, Persia and India. Card games eventually reached Europe in the 15th century. During this period the Italians invented the Tarot deck, which saw an additional set of trump cards added to the standard deck. These were used as ordinary playing cards until the 18th century, when they also began to be used for fortune-telling. The earliest cards were painstakingly made by hand and were therefore expensive to create. Up to the 15th century these hand-painted decks were exclusively used by the aristocracy, but the innovation of woodblock printing made their manufacture much less expensive
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and playing cards quickly became available to all social classes. The Georgians and Victorians were keen card players and favourite games included Whist, Ecarte, Faro and Loo. In the early 20th century games such as Pontoon, Gin Rummy, Canasta and Contract Bridge became popular but the interest in card games began to fade in the second half of that century as television and other distractions tempted people to abandon their social gaming habits. It’s good to know that in spite of computers and the internet (or perhaps because of them) card gaming is once more growing in popularity, but in addition to online gaming, people are also coming together to play socially. As well as old favourites such as Poker and Bridge, there’s a huge interest in collectible card games, where players use specially designed sets of playing cards and trade their cards during a game. You can find a list of local clubs at www.orcsnest.com/ clubs.htm and www.ukgmn.co.uk or alternatively ask at your local library. Many pubs now host informal groups playing card games such as Cribbage or Poker, so it’s worth asking the landlord of your local pub if they have card playing evenings. If you can’t find a local group that meets your needs, you could consider setting up your own club. A pub or local café may be the ideal place to get together, but do check with the owner to see if they have any objections before setting up a meeting. This is particularly important if you want to play for money, as the premises may not be licensed for gambling. You can find additional players by posting on social networking sites or putting up leaflets in libraries or community centres. Playing in public is a great way to attract attention and interest, so take along some flyers with information about how to join the club if you have arranged to play in an open space.
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When you recruit new players, be clear about the range of card games you’ll be playing and email a set of rules for each game in advance (you will be able to find these on the internet). It’s also useful to keep the rules handy as you are playing, in order to avoid potential conflict if one of the participants normally plays by a slightly different set of rules. You may need to levy a small charge for refreshments, venue hire and admin costs but it’s advisable to keep the first session free of charge in order to attract more players. When booking future sessions, it’s better to set a regular meeting day and stick to it than simply to arrange sessions on an ad hoc basis. If you are joining – or starting – a club you’ll find it’s a good way to make new friends who share your passion. It’s also a great way to exercise your brain, as a good card player combines a strategic approach to the game with well-honed recall and observational skills. So many different games … so many ways to play them. When you consider that all this potential can be found in just 52 pieces of printed paper, it’s no wonder that card games have retained their appeal over thousands of years.
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