Darling Autumn 2011

Wimbledon’s magazine for local women | www.darlingmagazine.co.uk

Autumn 2011 COVER GIRL DEBBIE KNIGHT Making scents INSPIRING KATE MEDINA The Business of Fitness SAVE OUR SHOPS Join the Darling campaign WONDER WOMEN The “Agents of Change” conference IMAGE IS EVERYTHING! Alice Wood’s Style Advice KID’S CONFIDENCE The Fonz does it his way BLOOMING GOOD Patrick Collins Strikes Chelsea Gold

PLUS: Autumn Fashion Inspiration, Maintaining Good Health, Inheritance Tax, Hair Extensions, Stoves for Autumn, Ghi Gong on Life and Death, Wimbledon Social Scene, Ghigo’s Gastronomical Journey, Local Schools on Special Needs, Expanding into Your Basement, Soiree’s are Back and Bridge with Paul Mendelson

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COLLECT COPIES AT OUR “HOTSPOTS” * Nicholas & Steele 78 Durham Rd Tel: 07947 011879 * Maison St. Cassien, Wimbledon Village Tel: 020 8944 1200 * Wimbledon Library on The Broadway Tel: 020 8274 5757 * Truckles Deli on Coombe Lane SW20 Tel: 020 8605 2175 * Aromatica Italian Deli on Leopold Rd Tel: 020 8944 0309 Please call first to check stocks

Join darling to find a name for our ‘Save our Shops’ Campaign, see Page 12 WIN A FREE QUARTER PAGE AD WORTH £85 IN NEXT ISSUE! For details go to darlingmagazine.co.uk

editor’s letter Dear Darling Reader,

Cover girl glamorous Debbie Knight, owner of Senti. Photography by Brian Aris.

Publisher Darling Magazine UK Karine Torr

There’s simply no truth in the rumours going around our leafy Wimbledon that local traders who didn’t get their windows kicked in were slightly miffed by the uneasy feeling that their store windows might not have been, well, blingy enough to attract the attention of those itinerant hoodies. Yes, summer’s been a riot, but that’s not the worst of it for our small independent shopkeepers who are feeling the pinch from all sides, as Holly Nicholas-Steele explains in her stirring article on Page 12. Which is why they’re joining forces with Darling in a campaign to save our local shops from the encroachment of the corporates and the chilly winds of recession. Read more on our website, and let’s start a gang of our own!

Advertising 07930 396356

And before you shrug with the fatalism of the helpless, read about our inspiring woman, Kate Medina, great self-starter plus a report from “Women as Agents of Change”, Page 16, proof positive that a few inspiring women really can change the world. Autumn brings plenty to be positive about – if the Merton Arts Trail doesn’t bring out the culture vulture in you, there’s the Wimbledon Bookfest, fast making a name for itself on the literary map.

Email info@darlingmagazine.co.uk

So enjoy all that autumn brings and see you in November with our bumper winter issue.

Contributing Writers Philippa Hennessy Kate Greenhalgh

Karine Torr Editor | info@darlingmagazine.co.uk

Photography Taylor Torr Patrick Jackson

CONTENTS

Editor Karine Torr 020 8739 0059

Design Director Mark McGough mcgough.mark@gmail.com Printer Aquatint/bsc jane@aquatintbsc.co.uk Distribution Three Colours Ltd info@3colours.co.uk Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Darling Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form electronic, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from the publisher.

04 Join our Darling Campaign to save our local shops 06 Kate Medina inspires us with her home-grown business 12 See what Alice Wood says about fashion and your impact 14 Independent shops and businesses - we love’ em and need’ em!

16 Debbie Knight on a touch of Italy in the Village 18 Women with vision as speaker, Tahirih Danesh reports 19 Soirees are in again - so a little nightingale told me 21 The Fonz inspires our youngsters - Schools in the News 22 Hair Extensions - luscious locks unveiled 26 Ghigo Berni with a history of London food fashions 32 Darling Social Pages - are you there or square?

33 Bridge with the fabulous Paul Mendelson 33 Maria Jevtic - how to invest in your health 34 Inheritance Tax with Hart Brown Solicitors 36 Our own Chelsea Flower Show star 37 Warming up for autumn with The Forest Bailiff 38 Need more living space? Go down under with Jason Coetzee 41 Life and Death: the Good, the Bad and the Inevitable 42 Important local websites and numbers 43 Our charities in the news 44 What’s on this Autumn 46 Kate Greenhalgh wallows in self-pity, dragging her friends with her darlingmagazine.co.uk | autumn 2011

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inspiring woman

Philippa Hennessy talks to Kate Medina about her favourite Village haunts, why Wimbledon is the perfect family base and her new business venture

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orn and raised in Wimbledon, Kate Medina tells me that the day she moved back after 15 years away felt like coming home. Not only did she and her husband want to bring up their children away from central London traffic, noise and pollution, but there was an emotional motive too, since Kate's parents still resided in Wimbledon. With three young children to run around after, Kate cannot think of a nicer place so close to London to live and bring up a family.

of shops and it's so convenient for central London.

The children also love to visit the stables and pat the horses.

What do you love most about living in Wimbledon?

The common has to be one of the best things – I walk our dog on it every day; run, cycle and climb trees with the kids. It's amazing to have such huge wild green space and woodland to explore.

What are your favourite village haunts?

I don't go out in the evening as much as I would like to, but, being partial to a good steak, I am keen on the Butcher and Grill, as well as Thai Tho and Lydons for special occasions. I also like to sneak off to St. Cassien for lunch on my own sometimes.

Why do you think it's a perfect place to raise a family?

Wimbledon is so varied – there are great outdoor spaces, gourmet pubs and restaurants, cinemas, theatres, a superb range

Is it true that you dreamt up getfitter.com sitting at your kitchen table?

Pretty much so! It's an online home fitness business that launched last year - it delivers

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autumn 2011 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

high impact and personalised training videos – a different workout every week. The 'vibration training' workout aims to cut your workout time in half – perfect for the busy mum.

Why this particular type of business?

Despite weekly gym sessions, I was struggling to lose weight after the birth of my second child. When I hired a personal trainer, the change was immediate, but it was an

inspiring woman expensive way to drop a dress size. This was the catalyst that prompted me to explore how personal training could be delivered to the mass market at an affordable price.

So, does this mean no more boot camp in the drizzle?

Yes, I guess so ! Most new mums struggle to shed their baby weight and invest hundreds of pounds in personal training. This way, they can achieve their goal at a cost that won't break the bank.

Was it costly to develop?

My savings funded the website which cost ÂŁ5,000 - it has to store and stream video content so it was more expensive to build than many websites.

I understand that it's making waves in the media?

I won 'Best New Business' at the

2010 Merton Business Awards and have been shortlisted for 'Best New Business' in the 2011 South London Business Awards.

I'm also working with 'Ideal World' shopping channel – the volumes it can potentially sell dwarf anything I could achieve, so it's very exciting.

What challenges have you faced?

Lack of time, financial and a steep learning curve - I had to learn to love technology.

Why did you go in to business on your own? I simply had an idea that I believed in.

How do you juggle your commitments with family life?

With difficulty. I want to spend time with my children. I have help two days a week, but I still have to work most evenings.

What qualifications / experience are necessary?

A desire to do it, a willingness to learn and determination are far more important than qualifications.

What one piece of advice would you give to other women?

Just do it! I've wanted to start a business since I was 18. I wish I had done it earlier, but there's never a perfect time.

For more details visit www.getfitter.com

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No Call out charge Travel by scooter so we arrive on time Professional and courteous

Assemble Furniture Fix leaks Fit blinds Hang shelves Painting and Decorating Carpentry Electrics Plumbing Odd-jobs

booking@londonhandyteam.co.uk darlingmagazine.co.uk | summer 2011

9

fashion

Alice Wood, founder of Inspiring Women UK, offers up some fashion inspiration

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an fashion change your life? Absolutely.

I discovered this back in the 70’s, when a mini skirt and a great pair of boots was all the invitation I needed to get into a party. That was in San Diego and the party my husband says I ‘gatecrashed’,

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was his. Thirty-six years later the husband is still with me, even if the mini isn’t.

I still use my wardrobe to create impact, inspire confidence, or for a boost on a grey winter’s day. If you’re in business, your clothes make a powerful statement

autumn 2011 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

about you as a personality and your business as a brand. Ignore it at your peril! If you’re not working, fashion can

fashion

still lift your day better than anything else. So why not embrace it? Great style is not about age, size or budget!

The start of a new season is fabulous for discovering fresh colours and shapes that keep your look up to date. Autumn/ Winter 2011 is all about elegance, glamour and drama.

Jewel colours like deep garnet and sapphire add drama; warm caramels and shimmering pewter are city smart. Wear a shimmering tunic and trousers for an elegant daytime twist.

Or mix a sculptured, 40’s style jacket with velvet skinny jeans to achieve an effortless Parisian style.

There’s no denying that French fashion is having a ‘moment’ and one of the most innovative

companies is Captain Tortue.

This direct sales fashion house is owned and run by designer, Lillian Jacquelinet and husband Phillipe. A working mother herself, Lillian understands the desire for affordable catwalk inspired design, quality fabrics and pieces that work together to create effortless dressing.

I love the way she creates her collections in sizes 6-24, so no one is left in the fashion wilderness.

UK Managing Director, Mimi Marchant says, “Our fashion consultants sell direct to customers in their homes over a morning coffee or evening glass of wine. It’s really fun and relaxed - perfect for working women or mums at home.

And for women who’ve always dreamed of having a fashion

“Great style is not about age, size or budget!” business, it’s a fantastic job opportunity.”

I guess that really is lifechanging fashion!

Personal Branding & Image Workshops Contact Alice Wood, Inspiring Women 0777 5530 997 or visit www.inspiringwomenuk.com For information about Captain Tortue Call 01403 754040 or www.captaintortuegroup.com All fashion featured is from Miss Captain A/W 2011

darlingmagazine.co.uk | autumn 2011

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community

Join the Darling campaign. Notes from the frontline

by Holly Nicholas-Steele

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year ago my husband and I opened our beloved vintage shop, Nicholas & Steele in the heart of West Wimbledon, a quiet yet up and coming family orientated neighbourhood. After months of what eventually became a nationwide search for the perfect location, we settled on a shop right at the end of Durham Road. One might indeed wonder; why choose the ‘burbs’ of London over the beautiful coast of Cornwall or the picturesque beauty of the Cotswold’s? It was a simple choice for us. We wanted to contribute something to our ‘village,’ which had been home to us for so many years. We felt a connection to the community and wanted to remain a part of it.

We had also heard the disturbing report that Wimbledon had the most cloned high street in the UK. We decided we wanted to offer something unique, 12

something that might remind the folks of Wimbledon of the high streets of old.

All around our nation a resounding cry has been sent out to save our shops yet how serious are we about this?

With shows like “Mary Queen of Shops” and the BBC’S “The High Street” gaining excellent ratings it would seem we all feel pretty strongly about this, yet right here on our doorstep our independent shops are battling for survival, bruised by what retail analysts are calling “a perfect storm”- a combination of rising inflation, austerity cuts, global financial instability as well as the changing trends in retail with online sales reaching record highs over the past year.

To say that our first

summer 2011 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

year has been challenging is an understatement yet we have flourished, buoyed up by the support of our loyal customers who have recognised the joy of good old-fashioned service, a unique product and a shop, which

campaign is fast becoming a little hub in the community of West Wimbledon.

For us our shop is more than just a place where we earn a living.

It is a place for locals to meet, an opportunity to connect people, to support local craftsmen and women and to offer exceptional service. Our art school is a joyous place of creativity where both the young and old gather to uncover hidden skills and talent.

Our mission to enhance our community is key.

West Wimbledon and Raynes Park has a fine tradition of being the home to many independent shops and businesses. Initiatives such as the Raynes Park Association of Independent Businesses have been created, their mission, to ring fence this tradition and to encourage locals to shop local, yet the ever expanding and encroaching

mainstream high street seems hotter on our heels than ever before.

It is becoming increasingly clear that unless we, as a community, make a conscious decision to support our local independent shops, they will be a thing of the past. Supporting a shop isn’t just about visiting them. Independent shops need custom just like any other high street retailer. It’s fun to window shop but remember; just deciding to buy one small item each time you visit will contribute enormously to the survival of these businesses.

In the past, high streets and the communities these create have been a representation, a microcosm if you like, of the wellbeing or state of the nation in general. Our high streets today are no different and the prognosis is bleak. Politicians,

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town planners and landlords can all play their part but are we acting too late? Has the death knell for independent shops been sounded? Only time will tell but you can help stem the tide by making a decision to shop local, even though it may be perceived to be more costly or not as convenient. What you stand to gain is far greater. What you risk losing if you don’t, greater still.

If you would like to know more about the Darling Campaign “Your local independent shop needs you!” please email the editor, Karine Torr, at info@ darlingmagazine.co.uk on how your business can join the campaign or, if you are a local, what you can do to help. Look out for our facebook page.

For more information on our Darling Campaign competition www.darlingmagazine.co.uk

story

Debbie Knight’s Italian inspired Emporium, Senti

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y career changed direction as a result of there being no snow at the ski resort where my family and I had booked our holiday.

We decided to take a train from France to Italy and spend a few days in Florence. The contemporary and stylish hotel we stayed in smelt divine and it was here I discovered the then unknown brand of Dr Vranjes.

I fell in love with his products and shortly after became the UK distributor for him. Senti evolved soon after and has since given me a passion for fragrance and scented products.

After 4 years of steady growth and a steep learning curve in selling, we outgrew the kitchen table and decided to open a retail shop. When number 39b became available 2 years ago, we

were so excited as it has such an attractive shop front. My sister Kim and I, helped by Julie (one of our stockists) from Atelier, designed the interior and chose the fittings. We love being part of the Village community and enjoy welcoming our customers at Senti who are all so friendly and interested in our products.

Visit www.senti.co.uk T: 020 8947 5179, 39b High Street, Wimbledon Village

inspirational

New local resident, human rights researcher and educator, Tahirih Danesh talks to Darling Magazine

I

n our part of the planet, when one reads words such as ‘women’ and ‘change’ together, thoughts of a new wardrobe or a visit to the plastic surgeon may be among the first ideas that come to mind. On further reflection, one may sense the more feminine aspects of the past two centuries; what our mothers and grandmothers began fighting for - change for the better, change for equality and change for opportunities that allow not just women, but also our male partners, to live happier and better lives.

On June 20th, the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Foreign Press Association (FPA) here in London held a one-day

symposium on this very theme: ‘Women as Agents of Change’ and managed to put together a rather impressive list of speakers. The event revolved around the launch of a new publication edited ironically not by a woman, but still, by one of the most beautiful minds among economics Nobel laureates, Amartya Sen. Many of the speakers talked about women’s challenges and the way in which they each had tried to change these challenges into opportunities.

The perspectives and positions they each occupied are far too many to list in such a short article, but fear not, you can still find out and learn a great deal through the FPA website at:

L-R: Wendi Momen (Magistrate, Author and EBBF Governing Board Member), Janet Bernshoof (President of Global Justice Centre in New York) and Karine Torr (Editor Darling Magazine)

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autumn 2011 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

http://www.fpalondon.org As one of the many panelists and the two Wimbledon residents who attended the event, I was moved by the spirit of goodwill among the majority of those who came, spoke or listened. But having just moved back from the frontlines of change in sunny Sri Lanka, I found myself missing the voice of youth and those who are involved and affected with change at the grassroots and are dealing with it in new and imaginative ways. Those who represent the new world of learning through both ‘doing’ and ‘being’ agents of change.

Those who suffer from and are fighting religious dogmatism. Or those who do not only represent but are young survivors of violence who have become giants of change.

And I suppose I missed them because it does take every one of

inspirational us to make change happen. We are all part of an organic entity and no matter how big or small, we each have a role to play. We each can make the world a better place - as the late King of Pop sang -‘for you and for me and the entire human race.’ And it does not have to involve moving to a post-conflict zone like Sri Lanka, it can be something simple right now and right here. Like making sure our daughters and sons are treated not the same, but equally during family conversations or activities. Or paying attention to the policies our local or national politicians not just advocate, but actually implement to bring about positive change.

So I suppose if there is one thing I learnt from the prestigious symposium, it is that we no longer can just demand change, we actually need to roll our

sleeves up and work together, man and woman and shoulder to shoulder, with a shared vision of change that allows both sexes better standards of living here or there. And in the midst of all sorts of change that is sweeping throughout our world, whether it’s environmental change like the Japan Tsunami or socio-political like the Arab Spring, I hope we can muster up enough interest and energy to become agents of positive change. At home, in our media, schools or Parliament.

We all matter when it comes to making the sort of change that gives women and men the inalienable rights each require in order to develop our unique capacities, all of which are vital to our survival as families, corporations or governments.

Years ago I came across a bookmark from the beautiful Baha’i Lotus Temple in Delhi. It was from a significant figure of the Faith who visited Wimbledon exactly one hundred years ago this autumn. It read ‘The world of humanity has two wings - one is women and the other men.

Not until both wings are equally developed can the bird fly. Should one wing remain weak, flight is impossible.’

Let us, as agents of change, realise this vision and learn to fly together towards new horizons of happier and better lives for every woman, child and man.

Tahirih Danesh as speaker at the FPA conference

inspirational

These Nightingales sing to a different tune “The opportunity to relax and spend time with friends while listening to soothing music is essential and easily overlooked”

Nightingales sang at Brian and Mary Hanover’s Victorian Tea Party

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he Nightingale Trio consists of Jane Wilkinson (soprano), Marlene Verwey (flute) and Anne Marshall (piano), and was formed in 2010 by three South-West Londoners who all graduated from the Royal College of Music. Marlene and Anne moved to London from South Africa in 2004 and 2006 to further their professional classical music careers.

Lancashire-born, Jane Wilkinson joined Anne and Marlene to form the trio. In April 2011 they embarked on their first tour, which began with a chamber performance in Fulham at the house of Maxine Green and was followed by 9 performances

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in South Africa, ending with a performance in Wimbledon at the home of Mary and Brian Hanover.

The Nightingale Trio’s goal is to bring high quality performance back to the local community. Life in one of the world’s biggest cities is fast and busy and the opportunity to relax and spend time with friends while listening to soothing music is essential and easily overlooked. The trio decided that home and charity concerts would be the perfect venues to spread this beautiful art form.

“These concerts are reminiscent of 19th century music and poetry performances which took place

autumn 2011 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

in Salons, partly to share their talent and partly to refine taste and increase knowledge of music through conversation”, says Richard Cooper, a fan from West Wimbledon.

Marlene, Anne and Jane are also teachers with a track record of producing outstanding students.

Student concerts are given in Wimbledon and Putney to share the students’ hard work with their families. They are working hard to make another dream come true - to have students perform to the elderly in care-homes in our area. www.nightingalemusic.co.uk

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teachers reminding us “We all have greatness within us”.

Darling Magazine spoke to a few local school heads for comments on their special needs approaches.

Special treatment for special needs

Pupils from Garfield Primary School meeting Henry Winkler, The Fonz from ‘Happy Days’ L-R: Ayaa Abdelsalam, Brooke Brown and Bronwyn Lane

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ecently Henry “The Fonz” Winkler OBE actor, film director and children’s book author, returned to the New Wimbledon Theatre as part of The First News ‘My Way’ campaign and Wimbledon Bookfest’s inspirational Education Outreach Programme, to face 800 children from 20 schools across the borough.

Henry suffered from dyslexia as a boy and now travels the world inspiring children that may experience learning difficulties to be confident and reach their potential.

The girls of Year 5 at the Ursuline Prep loved meeting Henry Winkler. Niamh Boyle commented, “He was funny and made us all laugh”. Anna Healy said that she loved his inspirational speech, whilst Isabella Mata said “I really enjoyed him reading from his Hank Zipzer book. It was hilarious”. Pia De Pommerol enjoyed his comments on his own schooling especially when he said, “I was terrible at everything at school apart from lunch. I was great at lunch!” Year 5 teacher Sarah Potter said that Henry was an inspiration to both girls and

“To be successful learners, children need positive self-image.

Success in life and self-esteem go hand in hand. At The Rowans School, our small class sizes enable staff to monitor children closely. Teachers liaise with our learning support staff and, where necessary, tailored, stimulating and one-on-one support is offered in-house. The focus is on using engaging activities to develop skills and enable independent learning. Links with parents are strong and regular feedback is essential to ensure support is effective. Our aim is to equip all children with tailored strategies to tackle their learning with confidence.” Suzie Wingrove, Head Teacher, The Rowans.

“Inclusion is a cornerstone of everything we do at St Matthew’s. We believe that all children should have equal access to the curriculum and be fully involved in classroom life. Our creative, integrated curriculum encourages a hands-on approach to learning which benefits all children. Those with learning difficulties are supported with clearly targeted education plans, which are the result of close consultation with both children and parents.

With specific intensive spelling support we would use resources such as sand trays to write in,

darlingmagazine.co.uk | autumn 2011

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schools physical letters to move around, huge pens and paper, computer games, making word wheels, etc.

To support dyslexic children who struggle getting ideas onto paper we use things such as voice/video recorders, scribes, paired support, mind-mapping and pictorial representation.

Pictures are a very good stimulus for developing ideas (good for all children). We often find a way into learning by using paintings (lots on National Gallery website, etc). It’s non-threatening as it doesn’t rely on text, and all children can access it - we often find that children who remain quiet in other lessons will really open up when using a painting as a stimulus. It seems easier to share ideas, without there being an obvious ‘right and wrong’. All ideas are valued.” Lucy Miles, Deputy Head, St Matthews C of E Primary School.

“There is a very wide range of children who experience difficulty reaching their academic potential in a structured school environment,” says Debby Evans who holds a M.Ed. and is a specialist in the field of learning difficulties, “where they are required to work in their areas of weakness for most of the school day.

Most of these difficulties are intrinsic, but are often masked until a gap between school performance and intelligence is noted. Difficulties with decoding the lexicon (reading fluently and accurately) and encoding in order to spell, often combine with impulsivity and distractibility in the way many children approach tasks or assignments. On the other hand, these same children are often extremely bright and full of creative ideas which can only be

recognised and acknowledged when given alternate ways of expressing themselves.

Oral presentations, displaying research and knowledge by designing and presenting a poster, for example, are some methods by which a child with learning difficulties can best be assessed in the classroom.”

“We have a number of children who struggle with their learning. We provide support in small groups to address the area where children are struggling.

The children have clear targets that they need to achieve and these are reviewed regularly to celebrate successes and identify the next steps needed to reach the target. We work closely with parents to ensure the children are also supported at home.” Yvonne Norman, Headteacher Garfield Primary.

hair

Do you want the hair of your dreams, plenty of volume to give you the glamorous look you’ve always wanted? Thomas Swaine explains how

H

air Extensions can instantly transform your appearance. Not only are they great for adding extra length, they also give your hair a thicker more voluminous finish. Extensions would be perfect for someone trying to grow out a bob or shorter style, as they will give you the length you want, whilst allowing your own hair to continue to grow naturally.

However, there are a number of different options when it comes to extensions; it’s not only about achieving long, flowing locks! If you’re happy with the current length of your hair they can be used to add thickness and texture.

Extensions are also great for experimenting with colour.

For me it’s all about getting the colour of the extensions to perfectly match your natural hair, usually using 3 different subtle tones, to blend seamlessly and be virtually invisible. You can always tell bad extensions as the colour doesn’t quite match the person’s natural hair, and as a result the extensions are detectable. The finished effect should look like your own hair, only better!

Just like your own hair, extensions are versatile and can be styled however you fancy. Whether that’s blow-dried, straightened or curled.

When allowed to dry naturally they have a tousled, wavy look... great for adding texture!

The one thing I’m asked most often is “Do extensions damage the hair?” The answer is no.

The system I use involves no chemicals, and they are applied using the kindest possible method.

However, extensions are not suitable for all hair types, and I can only speak for the system I use, Racoon Extensions, which are the only brand to have been tested and approved by a consultant trichologist.

Once applied, and providing that the aftercare has been adhered to, your extensions should last 6 months. It’s also important to mention that all the hair is of the highest European quality and has been ethically sourced.

SPECIAL OFFER! Thomas Swaine is offering 15% off Racoon Hair Extensions until 31st October 2011.

“The finished effect should look like your own hair, only better!”

Contact Details Thomas Swaine, 4 Coombe Lane, Raynes Park, SW20 8ND T 020 8947 2277 thomasswaine.co.uk

restaurant

San Lorenzo’s Ghigo Berni serves up a delightful entrée of London’s food history Ghigo Berni

T

he cultural and social revolution of the 60’s witnessed the emergence of a new wave of restaurants, mostly Italian, which encapsulated the mood of creativity, discovery, experimentation and enjoyment bursting from the shackles of post-war conventions. The great restaurants of that era La Terrazza, San Lorenzo, La Meridiana, Pontevecchio, Mr Chow and so on, addressed a rather rarefied and privileged section of Londoners.

The 1970’s was characterised by an increasingly hedonistic temperament which allowed the Italians to consolidate their position and ensure that the new money, especially that of the 80’s, would be well spent in their establishments. It was during this latter period, however, that many of the newly city-minted classes felt out of place in the more notable social destinations. Their anonymous spending power funded the rise of Nouvelle Cuisine, a kind of rebranding of French metropolitan cooking for the inevitably gullible nouveau riches. The whole thing was a short-lived scam, one in which the young wealthy aspirants of the Thatcher era bought into these boutiquerestaurants with the zeal of Charlie Sheen’s Bud Fox, in Wall Street.

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By the early 90’s there were so many beneficiaries of Thatcher’s deregulation that they now constituted a sizeable audience, ripe for the large, classy, brasserie-inspired Conran creations, such as Quaglino and Mezzo. Meanwhile, The Ivy, along with several more upmarket Conran restaurants, catered to top executives and media creatives with a mostly French inspired style, increasingly executed by British chefs and front of house managers.

This new platform of hospitality professionals, although classically trained, nonetheless harboured little of the blinkered pride of nationality more common to the

autumn 2011 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Italian restaurateurs (mostly these were ex-waiters rather than chefs, underlining the importance of personality and social skill when mediating their classic Italian recipes). Hence the Brits had the cultural freedom to experiment and hybridise cuisine and, for almost a decade, it was akin to 80’s experimental JazzFunk; virtuosic and cutting edge, but hardly memorable.

Of course there have been British proponents of Italian cuisine, too. The River Café epitomises the type of cuisine you might authentically replicate if you’ve been fortunate enough to spend time in a Tuscan cascina surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Yet, for all

restaurant that earnest effort to recreate something which London Italians possibly viewed as a risky deviation from a tried and tested formula, the more exciting development of the last few years has been the emergence of native pride. By virtue of their current cultural obsession, the British have developed their own mojo, delivering food and hospitality with a skill and assuredness not witnessed before.

What’s even more interesting is to witness the democratisation of accessibility to this quality.

At one end, fine dining is pushed into sophistications which verge on the kinky, whilst at the other end we have a slew of franchises which stifle competition by capitalising on a largely immature and lazy market.

Thankfully, somewhere in

between these polarities are emerging the true organic, home-grown gems of affordable inspiration which rely upon the accompanying emergence of a more inquisitive and supportive audience.

In this sense, London, though improving, remains some years behind New York in terms of a symbiotic neighbourhood dining arrangement, whereby restaurants can try harder for the more realistic rewards of a captive local audience.

CONTACT DETAILS 38 Wimbledon Hill Road 020 8946 8463 www.sanlorenzo.com twitter: @fuoriporta

TECHNIQUEST T E C H N O L O G Y C O N S U LT I N G

HOME AUTOMATION | GATE AUTOMATION & ENTRY SYSTEMS | INTRUDER, FIRE & CCTV SECURITY MULTIROOM AUDIO | DIGITAL TV & VIDEO DISTRIBUTION | HOME THEATRE | LIGHTING DESIGN SCENE BASED LIGHTING CONTROL | IT COMMUNICATIONS | DIGITAL TELEPHONE SYSTEMS MECHANICAL SERVICES DESIGN & CONTROL | ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY CONSULTING Consultations are available by prior approintment only

TECHNIQUEST UK LIMITED

26, High Street, Wimbledon Village, London SW19 5BY T 020 8944 9040 E info @techniquest.co.uk W www.techniquest.co.uk

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darling/summer 2011

TECHNIQUEST T E C H N O L O G Y C O N S U LT I N G

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darling/summer 2011

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE HOSTS SHOW FOR ST RAPHAEL’S HOSPICE

NEW FARROW & BALL STORE OPENS IN THE VILLAGE

Cast of “That’ll Be The Day” with Mayor, Cllr Gilli Lewis-Lavender and consort Brian Lewis-Lavender

Katy Harrison-Read (Manager), Debbie Beaumont, Don Henshall (CEO) and Lucy Woodruff (Forest Bailiff)

MERTON CHAMBER “COUNTDOWN TO THE OLYMPICS” NETWORKING EVENT

WIMBLEDON PARK SHOOTING STARS CHASE DRAGON BOAT RACING EVENT

Left: Andrew Wakefield (Chair), Centre: Diana Sterck (CEO) with the illustrious panel of speakers & mascots, Wenlock and Mandeville (photo Keith Hern)

L-R: Sarah Harris, Kate Greenhalgh, Malene Askeland, Julie Lenon, Andrea Young and Lou Wills

SHOOTING STARS CHASE CHARITY LAUNCH AT LIGHTHOUSE

Committee L-R: Kate Greenhalgh, Alison Connick, Francesca Grade, Susan Cusack, Teresa Eden, Caroline Dore, Sandra Maghnagi

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socials KATHERINE MAGINNIS - SUMMER PHOTO EXHIBITION HELD AT WIMBLEDON FINE ART

L-R: Andrew Stoppani, Katherine Maginnis, Patrick Jackson and Arnhel de Serra

L-R: Edward Foley, Damian Pudner, Ingrid Sibbel-Linz, Anne-Marie Macinson and Oliver Ashton

SUMMER BRIDGE FUNDRAISER AT THE WIMBLEDON CLUB

L-R: Photographer Patrick Jackson and Claudine Jackson

Local Wimbledon ladies loving their bridge!

MARTINA OPENS CENTRE COURT’S NEW SONY CENTRE

LAUNCH OF LOCAL AUTHOR LYNDSAY RUSSELL'S NEW BOOK "MAKING IT BIG"

Suzy Wood (Centre Director) with the legendary Martina Navratilova

L-R: Annette Crossland (commissioning editor), Claire Watts (production), Ion Mills (Publisher Oldcastle Books), Alexandra Bolton (marketing), Kay Galbraith with Lyndsay Russell (front)

darlingmagazine.co.uk | autumn 2011

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socials WIMBLEDON COLLEGE OF ART’S VIP UNDERGRADUATE OPENING EVENT

L-R: Richard Gill, Managing Director, Landmark plc. Winners of the Landmark plc graduating Fine Art student: Ian Robinson, Joint 1st prize winner, Poppy Bisdee, 3rd prize winner, Darius Lambert, Joint 1st prize winner, David Todd, Chairman, Landmark plc

Rev Andrew Wakefield, Lois Rowe, Pathway Leader Print & Time Based Media, the Mayor’s Consort Brian Lewis-Lavender, the Mayor of Merton, Councillor Gilli Lewis-Lavender and, George Blacklock, Dean Wimbledon College of Art

SEEN AT WIMBLEDON VILLAGE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION’S SUMMER PARTY

L-R: Adrian Mills, Jennie Allan, Claire Jones, Kelly McAteer and Carol Andrews

Stephen Ballantyne and Kim Peacock

ANNUAL WOMBLEDON ROUNDERS TOURNAMENT

MAUNDY TODD SCULPTURE GARDEN SUMMER SHOW

Wimbledon Stables rounders team

L-R: Alistair Harrold, Rumi Das, Maundy Todd & artists Veda Hallowes & Seana Mallen

Organisers L-R: Sara Thain, G&T Business Services, John Strover, Strover Leader (and founder of this important event!), Nanette Strover, Strover Leader, Wendy Grant, G&T Business Services

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Advert

socials SOUTH PARK GARDENS ANNUAL MUSIC FESTIVAL

Julian and John with girl band, Legumes from Wimbledon High who were a hit!

SEEN AT MERTON CHAMBER AGM IN CANNIZARO HOUSE

L-R: XFM’s John Kennedy with festival organisers, Mandy Mallen and Julian Butler

WIMBLEDON FILM CLUB ‘SHORTS’ AWARDS

L-R: Sue Baker, organiser, Mark LeClerc, Student House Online.com (sponsor), David Fernando, Terra Ferma Media, Brin Bucknor, Time & Leisure, Mike Smith, Marcus Beale, Marcus Beale Architects (sponsor), Mary Lee-Wolf, Outside TeleviMcdonalds, Mark Jones, Ormerods Solicitors sion, judge and Wimbledon photographer, Taylor Torr

SPOTTED AT ELYS SUMMER FASHION DAY

HICKS GALLERY OPENING FOR CAROLINE YATES

L-R: Vini Honey, Elys Manager, David Shotton, Jill Clarke and Debbie Edwards

Visitors from all over Surrey came to support Caroline

TVF CHARITY FUN DAY AT DAVID LLOYD

Advert L-R: Victor Ubogu (former Bath rugby player), Sue Mappin (former international tennis player), Pearl Panton (former British tennis player), Michael Padmanathan (Trustee, True Volunteer Foundation), Mike Read (former Radio 1 DJ) and Dao Tran-Boyd (Volunteer, True Volunteer Foundation)

socials BELLISSIMA OPENS WITH STYLE ON CHURCH ROAD

CHILDREN’S CHARITY EVENT AT GINA CONWAY WIMBLEDON

L-R: Gina Conway & Kerri Henderson from Jitterbugs Play Café

L-R: Cristina Masso, Chanelle Muslu, Simona Masso, Aimee Cooper and Chloe Pennington

L-R: Photographer, Julia Boggio with her new baby, Nicolette Goussard Devlin and Gina Conway

LAUNCH OF ‘POP-UP’ SHOP COSY GLIMPSE

‘SAVE THE CHILDREN’ WALK ON WIMBLEDON COMMON

L-R: Donna Aragi, Natalie Stevens, Kristin Barstad and Samantha Hazlehurst

L-R: The Team - Jean Pinchin, Chrys Chalk, Chairman Save the Children Merton Park, Victoria Lyon-Dean, Community Fundraiser, Luisa Elliott, Rosey Hickson, Mary Anderson and Sally Aitken-Davies

Intrepid entrepreneurs & owners Stephanie Nevstad and Donna Aragi

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The Save the Children sponsored walkers who raised £705!

bridge

With UK Bridge Guru Paul Mendelson Do not play Bridge if you seek chivalry and gentility; this is a game for the brave and the slyly Machiavellian.

North

S 65

H J63

D KJ10943 C A7 West East S J1098 S A73 H 102 H Q984 D A62 D Q5 C 10532 C K864 South

S KQ42

H AK75

D 87

C QJ9 N E S W NB NB 1H NB 2C NB 3NT In a charming social game just off Wimbledon Common, on a gentle summer’s evening, no one would have mistaken these four ladies for anything other delightful. But that is not their characters when embroiled in the heat of battle...

West led JS against South’s 3NT contract. East overtook with AS and correctly returned 7S. South wins and leads a diamond to dummy’s jack, and East wins with her QD. What should she play now?

It seems unlikely that South holds AD since, if she had, she might well have played it first. Therefore, if West holds it, it might be possible to cut the declarer off from her lovely diamond suit in dummy.

To that end, East should switch to a club, to push out dummy’s AC entry. However, not any club will do, it must be KC! East sacrifices a club trick, but saves four diamond tricks and that is enough to thwart South once and for all. aceoftrumps.com 32

autumn 2011 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

SAFE HRT Healthibeing guides you through a challenging phase with an Individualised Herbal and Health Programme without the harmful side effects: * Improve your mood swings * Lose excess tummy fat * Improve your sex life!

Contact Naturopathic Doctor & Herbalist, Roseanne, based locally in Wimbledon Tel: 020 8946 7852 | www.healthibeing.com

homeopathy

You have a pension scheme, you may have a private health insurance and you are planning to be mortgage free by retirement age. But are you investing in your health? By Maria Jevtic

F

rom about age 40 onwards so many of us begin having inconvenient symptoms. It may be high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

Or perhaps varicose veins are appearing or your joints may be aching now and again. It is at those moments that we feel old age approaching and we may begin worrying about more serious future complaints. Sadly, it is often at the same time that our parents begin suffering from chronic ailments. Some of our relatives may be passing away, with us being witness to their physical pain and sometimes extended periods of a life desperately dependent on others.

Without wanting to paint the future black, 1 in 3 of our generation of the presently “40 something” will die of cancer, another of heart disease and the third probably of complications from diabetes type 2. But in fact

ALL of the killer diseases are to at least 50% caused by diet and lifestyle choices! And where you have a choice, you have power to make positive changes.

Please remind yourself that prevention is better than cure.

You actually have the power to influence your own state of health. Yes, your own health and that of your family lies to some extent in your own hands.

Because just as with our finances, it is possible to make sensible investments in our health now, so that our old age may turn out to be a pleasure instead of one long string of medical treatments, operations and doctor’s appointments coupled with fear of what will come next.

Your most powerful ally for investing in your health is your diet. What you eat, drink and otherwise put in your body accounts to probably as much as 50% of your general health.

But, just as with your finances, only long-term investments bring substantial returns. Every vegetable you eat today and every coca cola you refuse tomorrow will show on your statement in 20 years to come.

“Please remind yourself that prevention is better than cure” When you add regular exercise, daily exposure to daylight and fresh air, adequate sleep, and a positive attitude you have a powerful recipe for driving your health investments into the positive. This way you can look forward to old age as just another interesting time in your life, when you will finally be free to wake up when you want and do as you wish all day long, unhampered by a poorly functioning physical body and an anxious mind.

If you are not sure how to make significant changes, please contact Maria. Maria is now offering expert advice for people wanting to invest into their healthy future.

Maria Jevtic BSc (Hons) LCHE RSHom DNTh mBANT

t: 020 8946 8526 m: 07704 232 117 e: maria@jevtics.net www.familyhomeopathy.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk | autumn 2011

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legal

Inheritance tax – Hart Brown advises

Y

ou may resent the prospect of your loved ones paying tax on your estate at 40% when you have already paid large amounts of tax during your lifetime. If your estate is worth more than £325,000 (or £650,000 for a couple), you should consider taking inheritance tax planning advice.

Hart Brown’s experienced team of financial planners and solicitors specialise in inheritance tax.

CHRIS THURLOW ON INHERITANCE TAX Chris is an associate solicitor at Hart Brown, based at our Wimbledon Village office. He recently became a member of STEP (Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners), having achieved distinction in each of its exams, and is also on Mencap’s list of recommended advisors.

Chris has a particular interest in inheritance tax planning.

Piaget Possession Gold Ring

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He recently advised a couple in relation to their wills where

01483 887766 marketing@hartbrown.co.uk www.hartbrown.co.uk

“Potentially saving them £130,000 in inheritance tax”

the wife had been previously widowed before remarrying.

Through the use of trusts, Chris was able to increase the couple’s prospective inheritance tax free sum to £975,000, potentially saving them £130,000 in inheritance tax.

Hart Brown have also recently reduced a family’s inheritance tax bill by over £100,000 through the use of a post-death deed of variation.

PHILIP KINGSCOTT AND BRIAN MARTIN ON FINANCIAL PLANNING Philip and Brian are independent financial advisers, with considerable experience in the areas of trust investment and inheritance tax. They both hold specialist qualifications in longterm care planning.

When meeting the objective of reducing an estate’s liability to inheritance tax it is important to first focus on the ongoing and future needs of the client, to ensure they have sufficient income and capital to meet their

current needs and additional burdens that may arise, such as funding long-term care.

Planning is the key to ensure that priorities are balanced and the most suitable solution for reducing inheritance tax is chosen. As solicitors and financial advisers, Hart Brown are able to offer the full range of available solutions, including specialist investments, insurance and lifetime gifting.

experts will explain ways to reduce the impact of inheritance tax. A tour of Dorich House is also available but must be booked.

RSVP TODAY! Email: marketing@hartbrown.co.uk or call 01483 887766 to register your interest in attending the seminar at Dorich House.

This Autumn, Hart Brown are holding a free seminar at the esteemed Dorich House on Thursday 6th October from 10:30am - 1pm (includes drinks, canapés and coffee on arrival), just outside of Wimbledon Village. Our darlingmagazine.co.uk | autumn 2011

35

gardening

L

andscape architect and gardener, Patrick Collins, won his third RHS gold medal at the Chelsea Flower Show this year and even met the Queen! The B&Q Garden, co-designed with architect Laurie Chetwood, was

intended to demonstrate how it is possible to grow food in urban

spaces, no matter how small or unconventional your space is. At 9 metres tall, it was the highest garden ever built at Chelsea “At a time when growing your own is increasing in popularity, and perhaps becoming more of a necessity, I am lucky in having an allotment in Cambridge Road,” says Patrick, “But with waiting lists for allotments in Wimbledon and Raynes Park often over 2 years, this Chelsea garden showed people that we can plant vertically, and that not a huge amount of space is needed to produce delicious fruit and vegetables.”

“As a landscape architect and garden designer I have been fortunate to work around the world on a variety of projects, but I always look forward to coming home to the UK and its diversity of wonderful landscapes. We also have a diverse range of open space in and around Wimbledon. Living in Raynes Park I take inspiration from our local landscapes; I love the tranquillity of Fishponds Wood, the slight quirkiness of Holland Gardens and the freedom to roam on Wimbledon Common. This area is a truly wonderful place to live and work and of course to garden.”

emotion

LOOKING FORWARD TO AUTUMN DELIGHTS Lucy Woodruff at The Forest Bailiff sets the scene

S

itting in the warmth and tranquillity of a Mallorquin summer with a cool breeze and a wonderful view of a calm blue sea it seems hard to even consider what lies ahead in the coming months back in Blighty!

towel stops that unsightly wet towel being repeatedly dropped on the floor and a wellie boot rack just completes the job. All at minimal expense and fuss making a chaotic muddle a thing of the past.

Attractive economical and safe the advantages are numerous and all now allowed in smoke control areas in Defra approved appliances.

The country really has come to London!

Suitcases packed away and a promise to live a relaxed and simpler life are soon a distant memory and all hopes are for an Indian summer.

Sunday lunches with family and friends, a season of Downton Abbey and curling up by the fire are all part of my plan for the winter season that lies ahead!

The welcoming sight of ripening fruit trees, a little jam or jelly making is perhaps on the agenda.

Fruit picking a delicious pastime for all the family, even the dog enjoys a longer ramble. A pot of conserve makes the perfect gift sharing the fruits of our labours in the coming months.

Oilskin, wellies and Sam, our Irish Terrier, make the perfect ingredients for a walk on our wonderful common.

The Forest Bailiff welcomes you to discuss your seasonal needs in Blighty.

Returning to my boot room is a pleasure these days. An oak turned set of hooks, for coats jackets and school bags, a roller

Firing up the boiler too early is a daunting prospect, with rising fuel prices and the possibility of a harsh winter ahead. A comfort for our finances is the thought of lighting our wood burning stoves (yes stoves!) and really enjoying cosy evenings by the fireside especially during the late summer and early autumn when the chilly evenings require more than a jumper for warmth.

Clearview wood burning stoves, logs deliveries & log stores, decorative home furnishings and fabrics, Annie Sloan Specialist paint courses and an excellent stock of Farrow & Ball paint and papers.

Free Customer Parking 36, Durham Road Wimbledon SW20 0TW lucy@forestbailiff.co.uk 0208 947 5115 www.forestbailiff.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk | autumn 2011

37

building

How to invest in a luxurious basement, says Wimbledon builder Jason Coetzee

T

he summer holidays are upon us and as much as I love the warmer weather and BBQ’s it also serves as a stark reminder that I need more space. Space for the kids to play, somewhere they can make as much noise as they like, unpack all their toys and play to their heart’s content without me tripping over the lot. Having already converted the loft and extended the ground floor, the only thing left to do is a basement.

Having successfully created wonderful basements for my clients, I know what potential they have. The modern basement is a bright and airy structure which can be used for a multitude of purposes. I am thinking along the lines of a guest suite, a utility room and that playroom with table tennis, a pool table and anything else to keep the

Easily installed wine cellar

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kids amused. I am sure it will in time become the perfect teenage den too. With a bit of luck, we should be able to reclaim the space for ourselves sometime in their twenties... or maybe we should just continue digging. The beauty of basements is that they can extend beyond the foot print of your house, in other words, you can create a basement under your garden without upsetting your neighbours or the planning authorities. Depending on the budget there could be space for that cinema room and wine cellar after all.

Speaking of budgets, a basement could very well be one of the best investments you ever make.

There is a tendency in the more expensive areas of London to look at homes in terms of price per square metre, which is the standard used in Europe and elsewhere. Basements cost anything upwards of £2 500 per

New living or playroom space for the teens

autumn 2011 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

square metre, whereas the Halifax index shows that floor space in the Capital is at an average of at least £3 582 per square metre. In areas such as Wimbledon one could conservatively say it is upwards of £4500 per square metre.

Take into consideration the cost of moving and stamp duty and it means that a basement makes great financial sense. Now the only question remaining is, what would you do with all that extra space?

Call Jason Coetzee m: 07932 753 328 www.rhinoconstruction.co.uk

& Company

Kingston

Fuller Gilbert are pleased to announce the opening of their Kingston branch.

We have dealt with property in this area for over 30 years, working and living in the area to give us unrivalled local knowledge. So whatever your property needs may be, we are dedicated to making moving home easier.

Kingston House * 15 Coombe Road Kingston upon Thames * Surrey * KT2 5AB

020 8546 4499

Grant Fuller and Peter Gilbert Estate Agents, Valuers, Development Consultants 316a Worple Road West Wimbledon London SW20 8QU 020 8947 4764 www.fullergilbert.co.uk

www.fullergilbert.co.uk

spiritual

Alessandro Ferullo expands on the art of Chi Gong and how one can live a healthier life by reflecting on the bigger picture of life and death.

Can Chi Gong help us to see life and death differently?

Yes, Chi Gong practice helps us reflect more on the deeper issues in life. We begin to look more at the big picture as we learn more about who we truly are. This can take time as it has taken us years to deviate from our original nature. We have to unlearn ideas and concepts that do not serve us well and often lead us astray.

Where have you come across these teachings?

A Chi Gong master I met recently said one thing is decided when we are born and that is when we are going to leave this life. He explained some of us are built like a tractor (ideally suited to fields), some like a Ferrari, and some like a smaller car so we have different capacities and are suited to different conditions in this life. The trouble comes when we try to drive a tractor

on the motorway or a Ferrari in the field. We need to realize our true nature, embrace it and we’re likely live longer and healthier lives.

Is acceptance important?

Chi Gong helps us to reflect on a deeper level so we can gain mental clarity on these issues.

The practice helps to redress imbalances physically, mentally and spiritually. We can then return to living in a way more in tune with who we are and in harmony with our environment.

effective, and can be practiced at home, while traveling and in many situations.

Monday Evening Classes 7.30- 8.30pm (drop in classes) Wimbledon Village Club Hall, corner Ridgway and Lingfield Road Contact Alessandro Ferullo 07747 113305 alessandro@flowinghealth.co.uk www.chineseheritage.co.uk

How do you practice?

During Chi Gong practice and meditation, usually standing or sitting, we connect with the universal source (where we originated from) which we have often lost touch with. We begin to feel more nourished on a deeper level and a mental clarity is awakened. We feel more inspired to live a healthier life on many levels.

I would encourage anyone to give Chi Gong a try—it is simple, darlingmagazine.co.uk | autumn 2011

41

Creating Connections Inspiring Success Wimbledon, Putney, Balham, Kingston, Surbiton, Streatham and Hampton Court

EMAIL julie@theathenanetwork.com

HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

London Borough of Merton www.merton.gov.uk Citizen’s Advice Bureau www.nacab.org.uk Merton Chamber of Commerce www.mertonchamber.co.uk Wimbledon Town Centre www.wimbledontowncentre.co.uk Wimbledon Civic Forum www.wimbledoncivicforum.org.uk Wimbledon Society www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk Wimbledon Community Centre www.wimbledoncommunity.org.uk Volunteer Centre Merton www.volunteercentremerton.org.uk Learning & Skills Council www.lsc.gov.up Charity Commission www.charitycommission.gov.uk Wimbledon Music Diary www.wimbledonmusicdiary.com Wimbledon Choral Society www.wimbledon-choral.org.uk Local Police/Neighbourhood Watch www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods The Wimbledon Guild www.wimbledonguild.co.uk Care Connect www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/careconnect www.centrecourtshopping.co.uk

Wimbledon Police 020 8947 1212 or (999) Merton Council 020 8274 4901 NHS DIRECT 0845 4647

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St George’s Hospital 020 8672 1255 Kingston Hospital 020 8546 7711 National Rail 08457 484950

charity

SHOOTING STAR CHASE The inaugural lunch of the newly formed Wimbledon Friends of Shooting Star CHASE group took place at the Lighthouse Restaurant on 9th June and raised over £7,000 for the charity. Shooting Star CHASE is the children’s hospice service, supporting local families with a child or teenager not expected to reach their 19th birthday.

Shooting Star CHASE currently helps over 500 families living in western London, Surrey and West Sussex.

A Dragon Boat Race was also held in July. I know some very keen residents and supporters may have been there and some of you have kindly helped with donations. We had a fantastic turn out despite the poor weather and our 14 teams managed to raise an outstanding £5,900. The race was won by M.A.M.I.L.s (Middle Aged Men in Lycra) which was no surprise as they were all from FIT Gym in Wimbledon Village. Hot on their tail was Team Thundergods, one of two Scandinavian viking boats! We are grateful for the support of local businesses particularly Savills, Robert Holmes and Knight Frank who all sponsored teams. Thanks also to The Lighthouse Cafe and Bayee Village who donated gifts.

Info at shootingstarchase.org.uk See darling.co.uk for more pics!

TRINNY WOODALL: FASHION SHOW AT WARREN HOUSE A fashion show in aid of the Africa Blossoms campaign is being held at Warren House on 15 September. Trinny Woodall as guest speaker with fabulous fashions provided by Club Esher.

Build Africa, an award winning charity, will use the money raised by the campaign for its gender work in East Africa. Education improves health, livelihoods and equality, but threeout of four children in East Africa, most of them girls, do not even finish primary school. Build Africa works to ensure girls get the same chances as boys in school through its long-standing Build a School programme as well as helping women gain an economic voice through community-led savings and loans cooperatives, enabling them to invest in their businesses and reinvest their profits back into the family, where they are needed most.

CONTACT EMAIL elaine@build-africa.org.uk

Trinny Woodall, guest speaker

TRUE VOLUNTEER FOUNDATION (TVF) Held a big fun and charity sports day at the David Lloyd Club in Raynes Park recently, attended by club members, the local community, local businesses and special celebrity guests. The sun was shining and spectators were treated to a Wimbledon style Celebrity doubles tennis tournament, True Volunteers dressed as gorillas worked out on tennis court one in the master aerobics class, clowns entertained in the children’s area and things really heated up in the spinning competition. The day culminated with a barbeque and a band to relax and unwind. Special guests on the day were Mike Read former Radio 1 DJ, Victor Ubogu former England and Bath rugby player, Sue Mappin former international tennis professional and part of the golden 1970’s era for British Women’s tennis.

The event was also kindly supported by Sir Cliff Richard, former tennis international Annabel Croft, celeb chef Ainsley Harriot and BBC presenter John Inverdale and Jacquie Beltrao, Sky News presenter. The charity is organising Cycle Vietnam in November for all levels of fitness.

CONTACT EMAIL dao@truevolunteer.org

darlingmagazine.co.uk | autumn 2011

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Autumn 2011

KAOS AT SOUTHFIELDS GALLERY Until 17th Sept twelve exciting Kingston artists showing pottery, sculpture & paintings kingstonartistsopenstudios.co.uk

HELEN YEMM GARDENING GURU AT ST MARY’S Speaking at St Mary’s Garden room Talk and lunch 7th October Tickets £30 in aid of Macmillan E: lindadefriez@hotmail.com

FASHION SHOW WARREN HOUSE 15th Sept With Trinny Woodall as speaker. Build Africa Charity.

E: elaine@build-africa.org.uk

MERTON CHAMBER Sept - Oct workshops, socials, networking and training.

Something for everyone! Go to mertonchamber.co.uk T: 020 8944 5501

ATHENA NETWORK RUN Wimbledon Common from Cannizaro Park 25th Sept T: Julie 07980 523030 MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNINGS Friday 30th September E: liza.roe@me.com

INHERITANCE TAX PLANNING 6th Oct 10:30am - 1pm Hart Brown Seminar at the famous Dorich House (with tour available) E: marketing@hartbrown.co.uk T: 01483 887766

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE Sept - Oct run includes: The Drifters, Buddy Holly, The Hollies, Sally Morgan, Psychic and The Sound of Music.

T: 0844 871 7615 for info WIMBLEDON BOOKFEST Sat 1st - Sun 9th Oct For venues & ticket information wimbledonbookfest.org T: 020 8545 8342 MERTON ARTS TRAIL FIRST ONE EVER! 8 - 9th Oct and 15 - 16th Oct. Over 90 artists in venues all over Wimbledon & Merton in general. info@mertonartstrail.org.uk mertonartstrail.org.uk

LIFE-LONG WEIGHT LOSS Weight gain is not simply over eating and under exercising. It’s a symptom of an imbalance in your body. I help you identify that imbalance and treat you for it. www.healthibeing.com T: 020 8946 7852

LOOKING FOR ENTERTAINMENT? StarTurn helps make your good time a great time!

Beef up your celebration with music or entertainment.

Variety of genres – suiting pockets & occasions.

Caroline: 020 3326 5788 | hello@starturn.biz View artists: www.starturn.biz

CARPENTER & GENERAL BUILDING SERVICES C. N. RYAN LTD - 25 years in the business Member of Guild of Master Craftsmen Free quotes & excellent references T: 0845 259 0221 E: c.ryan@zen.co.uk M: 07811 285367

WORK YOUR OWN HOURS around your family or career.

Our organic health & beauty business is exploding and we need your help. Potentially £1000 p.m. Part time. £4000 p.m. Full time.

CALL CLAIRE ON: 020 3393 9557 (24hrs)

WINDOW CLEANER - FAMILY BUSINESS 40 YEARS IN THE WIMBLEDON AREA From £12 - £18 for an average four bedroom house. Contracts welcome.

Call Victor: 07703 803955

GERMAN COACHING For all levels – beginners to advanced by a native speaker.

Fully qualified teacher with examining experience in AQA & Edexcel.

Maya Aviram: 07910781697 or 020 8546 3876 Will travel locally Wimbledon & Kingston

WIMBLEDON DOG SOLUTIONS Dog training, walking, boarding, grooming, all purpose pet care service.

Based in Wimbledon Village.

Good references.

Call Frank Cotton: 07841 706735

ELEGANCE DRY CLEANERS - RAYNES PARK Special Offer!

Tues: £14 for 2 piece suits Thurs: 30% off for senior citizens 020 8542 2055 (opp. back of station)

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points of view

THE TWILIGHT ZONE

By Kate Greenhalgh

I

thought that other people should write this page for a change - not only out of sheer lethargy, dearth of ideas, general writer’s block and being a bit up against it on the deadline, but because a morbid obliteration of the ego is very healthy from time to time. I just had another birthday, which always fills me with Celtic melancholy; that memento mori, or reminder, as Byron put it, that we are all swimming towards the same shore, so it seemed timely to hand over to my aged friends, to share with you their mature reflections on the passing of the years, whilst I wallow in a bit of Welsh Methodist self-pity. After they recovered from being highly offended to be asked, here are their gems of lambent wisdom on what it is to be older, nay, closer to the poignant beauty that is mortality: “Whenever I bend over, a little fart pops out.”

“I have to bleach my beard as well as my moustache now” “I found another grey pube” This wasn’t quite the philosophical level I had been hoping for, but I persevered: “I talk constantly about the price of petrol” “I still swear by Delia Smith” “I love getting Woods of Windsor for Christmas” “I realised I have been getting hangovers for 35 years!”

“Tuesday is over-50’s discount 46

day at the garden centre” “I bought a nest of tables” “My bottom has become very fat” Again, not really the material for a cutting-edge piece of post-feminist critique on the Generation X zeitgeist. Who are these women, I began to think, as I curled up in front of a costume drama, cut out a recipe from The Lady and stroked one of my four cats. My survey had revealed a peer-group sleepwalking into old biddiness!

Our mothers’ generation is not like this. They did the 60’s - they are still pretty cool - pretty Shirley Williamsish, if you know what I mean, but we seem to be shaping up for a cliched travesty of the twilight years! Before we know it, Headmasters will be doing a roaring trade in blue rinses, and The Lighthouse will offer to cut up our meat for us

autumn 2011 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

and there will be Bingo evenings at Hemingways. Cannizaro will be full of old buffers in blazers and cravats, (oh no, wait - it already is) and we will spend all our time joining residents associations, to complain about speed humps, and other people’s planning applications. None of us will be trying to do a degree in Italian Renaissance art, or mentoring young female graduates in business, or going on Women’s Hour, or modelling for the Saga catalogue....

So it’s really not all that bad, is it? I’m so cheered up, I think I can write this page after all now.

(With thanks to the ever-youthful Sally O’Brien, Fiona RiceMellor, Clare Moon, Colette Scott, Jules Mann, Brita von Plato and Val Morrison for their very good-humoured, and fully ironic contributions.)

47

darling/summer 2011

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