Darling April-May

April - May 2011 FREE

darlingmagazine.co.uk

THE ROYAL ISSUE PUT YOUR DAUGHTER ON THE STAGE, MRS WATERMAN Cover girl extraordinaire SUE LEWIS Pregnancy, prolapse & pilates A ROYAL EXCUSE FOR A PARTY Vintage rules WIMBLEDON’S OTHER GRAND SLAM Paul Mendelson, local bridge guru STAY, REX! Frank Cotton on dogs behaving badly CROWNING GLORY New Hair Salon in Raynes Park PIRATES ON THE COMMON Radio Jackie’s local roots PRAY, LOVE, EAT CURRY A woman’s journey BESPOKE HOLIDAYS With Chic Locations

PLUS: Cannizaro’s New Loggia, Fashion Quiz, Fabulous Fish For Your Feet, Homeopath Fights Fatigue, Hart Brown on Wills, Whiter Teeth for Summer, Caring for the Elderly, Using your Tiger Energy, Princess Diana & San Lorenzo and why you need Pole.

editor’s letter Dear Darling Reader,

Cover girl: Denise Waterman Photographer: Patrick Jackson Make-up: Tracey di Lorenzo

Publisher Darling Magazine UK Karine Torr Editor Karine Torr 020 8739 0059

With the eyes of the world firmly on Will and Kate, we’ve jumped shamelessly on the royal bandwagon. What were you expecting? A sober analysis of the spending cuts? But it’s not quite as gratuitous as that. Turns out Princess Di helped to shape the fortunes of San Lorenzo, Camilla read to local children on World Book Day and the grand British tradition of ‘Peace Teas’ is being revived for the occasion in vintage style on our doorsteps, gardens and streets.

Understandably, then, there’s plenty of primping and preening going on in the neighbourhood – a new salon, a timely fashion quiz, Cannizaro’s unique wedding venue, and holidays fit for future kings and queens, plus plenty more for the body and soul alike.

So let’s celebrate April and May in sunshine and style.

Advertising 07930 396356

Chin, chin!

Email info@darlingmagazine.co.uk

Karine Torr Editor | info@darlingmagazine.co.uk

Contributing Writers Philippa Hennessy Kate Greenhalgh

CONTENTS

Photography Taylor Torr Patrick Jackson Design Director Mark McGough 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 including 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 Darling Magazine “Hotspot” collection points 05 Inspiring us is Sue Lewis, expert on having babies 09 Nathalie Baur & Chantelle Gilbert tick our boxes 12 Royal wedding celebrations in the garden 15 Stylish new salon as Thomas Swaine opens 17 San Lorenzo looks back on royalty 18 Summer smiles with Southfields Dental 19 Denise Waterman - what a girl!

21 Chat with Cannizaro King, Jeff Ward 22 A soul-finding journey to India with Maya Aviram 23 Suffering and why its optional 26 Social Pages - On the Scene 31 Beautiful travel destinations for the hols, Chic Style 32 Garra Rufa fish spa - pamper your feet 33 Maria Jevtic on fatigue 34 Wills the Hart Brown way 36 Structural Engineer, Judith Pole has a say 37 Paul Mendelson - on bridge, the king of card games 39 Radio Jackie and its Common beginnings 40 Clare Jefferies on care issues in the home 41 Dog training solutions with Frank Cotton 42 Local websites and important telephone numbers 43 A social conscience - exciting local events 45 Classifieds 46 Kate Greenhalgh’s regular rant in Points of View darling/April - May 2011

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& Company

Kingston

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darling/April - May 2011

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inspiring woman

Darling flexes her pelvic floor muscles with women’s health physio, Sue Lewis MCSP SRP Have you always lived and worked in Wimbledon?

Wimbledon is very much my home. I was married at St. Mary’s Church in the Village and I still hold my post-natal and Pilates classes in the Church Hall. My husband Bob and I love eating out and Lighthouse is one of our favourites.

Why did you specialize in obstetrics and gynaecology?

I was already a qualified, senior physiotherapist working in intensive care and paediatrics when I had my first baby (I have three children). My ante-natal teacher had described giving birth “like pulling a polo-neck jumper over one’s head.” That wasn’t my experience! I thought young mothers-to-be could and should be much better prepared for giving birth. After completing an 18 month postgraduate diploma in obstetrics and gynaecology at St. George’s, I started my own ante- and postnatal practice.

What do expectant mothers need to know?

One of the reasons the early ante-natal classes were so popular

was because expectant mothers would flop onto my big squashy sofas and be totally relaxed. At the end of a six-week course they were properly prepared for labour and all those old wives’ tales which had been worrying them were dispelled.

What about post-natal mothers?

After the birth they return to get back into shape and learn about living with a new baby. Shared experience is important for new mothers and in the classes we discussed breast-feeding, lack of sleep, painful stitches and all the other problems which are difficult to talk about except with people who understand and have experienced it themselves.

now older, typically in their 30s rather than their 20s. My oldest first time mum was 52. The biological clock ticks more slowly now, partly due to IVF. I’m also seeing more mothers expecting twins. Even the next generation of babies are now coming to me which makes me feel quite old – even though I’m not!

Who else do you see?

My original ante- and post-natal mothers, who often came back to me with their second, third and occasionally, fourth babies (and in one particular case with her tenth!) are now coming to me for menopausal care and advice.

It’s no longer taboo to talk about incontinence, prolapse and sexual difficulties caused by childbirth

Do you still offer the same classes?

Yes, but there are lots of changes and additions. Mothers no longer give up work at 29 weeks. These days they often work until they ‘drop’ – literally! Day classes are much less popular; couples are looking for evening or weekend classes which they can attend together. There is also more demand for one-to-one, bespoke sessions to fit in with busy working diaries. New mothers are

Sue demonstrating how a baby is born

darling/April - May 2011

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inspiring woman and hormonal changes. No one should suffer silently with these problems – I guarantee that many of them can be cured.

Women with particular problems like these are often referred to me by GPs and specialists.

Confidentiality is paramount because I am dealing with very personal and, sometimes, emotional problems.

So you offer a lot more now than when you first started the practice?

I now cover a woman’s whole child-bearing years. Pilates and pelvic floor/pelvic core classes are popular for all ages, from 25 to 75 years. I offer an advanced post-natal course as well as new baby classes which include baby massage, resuscitation and feeding advice. Fitness and body image is very important to all new mothers, especially for those

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returning to work quickly.

What’s the reference to “troubled waters” all about?

muscles daily. This tip works for men too. It’s a tip you won’t find on the internet!

The Simon and Garfunkel song is my signature tune and has been a dance-floor request for me at a number of Wimbledon parties!

Everyone who has been to my classes will automatically tighten their pelvic floor muscles when they hear Bridge over Troubled Waters. Teaching pelvic floor exercises is where it all starts; it’s the key to long-term gynaecological health. Regularly contracting these muscles, strengthening them to form a sturdy ‘bridge’ will prevent ‘troubled waters’ ie, leaking urine.

The exercises are a bore to do and easily forgotten so my top tip for everyone is to stick coloured dots around the house and office (on the kettle, tooth brush, phone etc) to remind them to tighten these all-important pelvic floor

You can find me and lots of other helpful advice online at suelewisantenatal.co.uk

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quiz

Style Consultant Nathalie Baur and Jewellery Consultant Chantelle Gilbert help you find your type 1. How do you wear colour?

A. Whatever I feel like on the day B. Strong, contrasting and bright shades C. Pretty pastels D. I like to be co-ordinated E. I go for simple colour combinations F. A tone-on-tone look 2. What kind of shopper are you?

A. I love markets and vintage clothes B. I buy something if I like it C. I enjoy the whole shopping experience D. I plan my shopping trips and take a list E. I buy when I need something F. I am an investment buyer 3. How would you describe your overall look?

A. Eclectic and sometimes wacky B. I like to make a statement and wear eye-catching pieces C. Pretty with detailed clothes that make me feel feminine D. Neat, organised and coordinated E. Relaxed and casual F. Simple and elegant 4. What is your working wardrobe?

A. Individual pieces

B. Eye-catching pieces C. Pretty blouses and tops that I combine with a jacket D. Tailored suits E. Easy-to-wear separates F. Basic pieces, but dressed up with accessories 5. What is your non-working wardrobe?

A. My collection of vintage clothes B. My latest fashion purchase C. Pretty, feminine pieces D. Co-ordinated separates E. Jeans and comfortable tops F. Simple styles, which I accessorize 6. What is in your special occasion wardrobe?

A. Velvet, brocade, antiques and lace B. Unusual and striking garments C. Fitted dresses with lots of detailing D. Simple and tailored dresses E. Comfortable, dressy trousers or a long skirt with a loose-fitting top F. An elegant dress or trouser suit 7. What are your shoes like?

A. They don’t co-ordinate with my outfit B. High-heeled or funky C. Pretty, with bows and details

Nathalie Baur, Stylist renaissanceimage.co.uk 07850 442708

Chantelle Gilbert, Miglio Fashion Jewellery Consultant lovemiglio.com 07958 389384 D. They match my handbag E. Comfortable F. Current 8. What kind of jewellery do you like?

A. Unusual - I collect it B. Bold, makes a statement C. Intricate, dangly and pretty D. Simple and fine E. Minimal F. Current and noticeable 9. What is your attitude to make-up?

A. I experiment B. I like it to be noticed C. I love it and spend time over it D. I keep to the same routine E. Minimalistic F. It complements my looks 10. What type of hairstyle do you have?

A. It changes with my mood B. It changes regularly C. Long D. Neat E. Low maintenance F. Up-to-date darling/April - May 2011

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If you have a majority of...

A. CREATIVE Vivienne Westwood Sienna Miller Gwen Stefani You like to give yourself a unique and interesting look. Shopping is an art form, you like vintage and you find chain stores distasteful. Jewellery is worn in unusual ways.

B. DRAMATIC Madonna Naomi Campbell Sharon Osbourne You love to shop and do this frequently. You want to make an entrance and often wear clothes with a WOW factor. You are not concerned with whether what you wear is practical or washable. Clothes and jewellery must simply make a statement.

C. ROMANTIC Nicole Kidman Kylie Minogue Elizabeth Hurley Love to dress up and to plan your wardrobe.

You adore pretty things; the more bows, fringes, extra lace etc. Texture is a must. Jewellery is detailed and the more the merrier.

D. CLASSIC Michelle Obama Hillary Clinton You prefer a co-ordinated look and do not like to mix textures or wear daring colour combinations.

Like to keep the same hairstyle. You like to use the same shops. Pearls are the first choice.

E. NATURAL Julia Roberts Steffi Graf Vanessa Redgrave Clothes that feel comfortable are a must, preferably non iron and tumble dry. Hate feeling restricted and formal. When you wear jewellery it will be simple/minimal.

F. CITY CHIC Princess Beatrice of York Kate Middleton Catherine Deneuve You tend to follow trends rather than fashion and use bright colours with caution tending to go for a tone-to-tone look. You love accessories and sometimes spend more on them than your outfit.

Stylish jewellery with a hint of colour.

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Mini denim skirt, Wellies from Dunnes.

Miglio necklace N1182, £50

Purple jumpsuit from Warehouse. Miglio necklace N1176, £249

Printed maxi dress from Monsoon. Miglio bracelet B1027, £99.50

Black suit white shirt from Long Tall Sally.

Miglio necklace N1079, £130

Belted mac from Next.

Miglio bracelet B978, £24.50

Colour block (white / black) red bag from Dunnes. Miglio bracelet B1010, £114

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tradition

Keep Calm And Party On! Holly Nicholas-Steele on reviving a grand old British tradition to celebrate the royal wedding

S

o the royal invites have been sent and the closest you came to receiving anything with the royal seal was your census form but fear not, help is at hand to ensure that you celebrate in style. Whether you are planning a family BBQ, a garden affair or a fullblown street party, with a little imagination and some help from Nicholas & Steele why not throw a party to remember, after all it’s not every day that an heir to the thrown marries a future Queen of England and for the rest of us, who needs an excuse for a party?

Street parties are the new ‘cool’ with Merton Borough experiencing more applications for them than ever before. They have a long history and are as

much about being British as cucumber sandwiches. The first street parties or 'Peace Teas' were held in July 1919 and celebrated the signing of the Treaty of Versailles. They were formal sit down affairs, centred round children and marked the end of a time of hardship. Today they have come to symbolise the spirit of a community, a gathering to celebrate a happy occasion.

With the forthcoming Royal nuptials, what better excuse than to impress your guests, with a table resplendent in fine china and a touch of vintage sparkle.

Whether you are the queen of cuisine or relying on your fairy “Ocado” mother for the catering, why not showcase your ‘culinary’ skills on beautiful vintage threetiered or pressed glass cake stands. Transform your kitchen table with embroidered vintage

linens. Silverware always adds a touch of class while pretty floral arrangements and candles in a selection of royal memorabilia add a sense of occasion. Use scatter cushions and crochet throws to soften the look and finally, to set the scene decorate your trees with cotton union jack bunting or honeycomb paper decorations all of which are available to buy or hire at Nicholas & Steele.

We all remember where we were in July of 1981 when Charles and Diana wed. Let’s make the 29th of April 2011 just as memorable and remember girls, keep calm and don’t panic, there’s still another Prince!

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hair

Prince Charming – Thomas Swaine’s chi chi new salon You've opened your own salon in Raynes Park, how did you get to this point in your career?

The first step was Covent Garden where I worked and trained with some of the most established and well-known salons in the business. This was my inspiration, and I have totally committed myself to progressing and evolving into a unique stylist.

I began working in Wimbledon several years ago and have invested a lot in my career by working hard and reaching the point now of opening my own salon, which is, I feel, the right thing at the right time.

What attracted you to fair Raynes Park?

Raynes Park was the obvious choice. I had considered other locations, but the regeneration and arrival of large companies, such as Waitrose, along with ideal positioning for transport links and ease of parking, encouraged me to set up here. I felt confident that a glamorous salon was needed in this flourishing area.

Tell us about the fun you had creating the salon?

At first it was all very daunting, as the shop was in such a mess!

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It needed totally renovating, not to mention some serious TLC. I had a very clear idea for the aesthetic of the salon, and it was fun deciding on all the elements of that. I spent a lot of time comparing paints at Fired Earth to get the right colour for the walls, and many a trip looking at different floor tiles.

For the furniture throughout I worked with an Italian design company, to create the look and feel I wanted. Even though we had to battle the snow at the end of last year, it was great to finally get the salon finished and open. I hope the result is a stylish, warm and welcoming space.

What makes your new salon unique?

Hair is the ultimate accessory for women, as you wear it every day. When you come into my salon I want you to really enjoy the overall experience. I want you to be able to escape

4 Coombe Lane Raynes Park SW20 8ND T 020 8947 2277 thomasswaine.co.uk

normal life for a couple of hours and relax, in the confidence that I will offer not only great styling but also practical advice and new ideas. Whether by suggesting a new cut, hair care, colour inspiration, maximising style using hair extensions or simply a wash and blow-dry. Our attention to detail and competitive prices ensure our clients leave looking and feeling fabulous!

We look forward to welcoming you!

Darling Magazine 15% discount on your first appointment with us.

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restaurant

Ghigo Berni on San Lorenzo’s Royal connections

I

got into a bit of trouble with my dad a few years ago when I emailed my Giro d’Italia wine club with the subject line “Royalty at San Lorenzo”.

Tongue in cheek, I was referring to the theme of the evening, Kings of Italian Wines, with slightly bawdy artwork as seen here.

Naughty and creative, I know, but he was understandably upset because he couldn’t have known this was targeted only at my Wimbledon mailing list.

Thing is, only I could savour the irony. Here we were, the Wimbledon offshoot of a Knightsbridge restaurant with serious historical connections, from Snowdon and Princess Margaret, to King Constantine, Margareth II of Denmark and Princess Diana, making light wordplay of a hard-won privilege.

I say privilege because I can well remember Diana’s radiance on the couple of occasions on which I was introduced to her.

She was undeniably charismatic, and not nearly so vulnerable as she often looked on camera.

Warm, assured and affable, she was breathtaking to behold. San Lorenzo was her favourite haunt and my mum became a close confidant during her troubled marriage.

This propelled the public’s perception of San Lorenzo into the realm of fine dining, which was a bit of a misconception.

You see, San Lorenzo remained a strong and important destination, but it never aspired to offer a fine dining experience in the strictest sense. It simply evolved to meet the needs of an increasingly expectant public, whilst innocently trying to defend its native cuisine from the onslaught of an era reverently obsessed with food culture and the pursuit of excellence. Not exactly San Lorenzo’s theme at all. Food and service are very important indeed, but only incidental to the overall experience of a well hosted restaurant.

union jacks, swinging a nice bottle of Brunello...and enjoying this mortal coil to the full.

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

Over a decade has passed since she passed away, and we’re already on the eve of her son’s marriage. I think her boys have turned out pretty well, all things considered. So I can only wish the newlyweds a long, healthy and fruitful marriage, and hope that they might occasionally lark about jauntily in their underwear, wearing crowns and

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Mara Berni

darling/Winter 2010

dental

Dr. Nikki Gulati advises on confidence boosting treatments to transform your looks have seen better days! We might not like the early signs of ageing on our skin. Come and visit us at the Blue House where we carry out many smile transformations with a wide range of treatments such as:

W

ith the daffodils blooming and the dull dreary winter drawing to a close we all have a spring in our steps and a smile on our faces so why not welcome Easter with a dazzling new smile! We are here to help you achieve the smile you have always longed for but been either too embarrassed to discuss or not had the courage to change.

The modern woman is here to make an impact and that statement can be made in many ways however the most important of all is a beautiful fresh smile and face. As women we go through many changes in our lives and that also reflects on our teeth and skin. As time goes by we may have concerns about teeth getting yellow and discoloured as we consume tea, coffee, red wine etc or might be dissatisfied with our uneven or crooked teeth or old crowns that

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For further details give us a call to book a consultation on 020 8788 8050 or email us info@southfieldsdental.co.uk southfieldsdentalcentre.co.uk Southfields Dental Centre 1 Augustus Road Wimbledon SW19 6LL

profile

Cover girl Denise Waterman

Y

ou might say Denise Waterman was ‘born in a trunk’. Her parents were professional singers. She attended a stage school along with her two brothers from the age of 8 and made many commercials and even films as a child. Her first grown up job was on The Morecambe and Wise Christmas Show, where she impersonated Anna Ford and danced with the famous pair.

She’s been a professional dancer and even had a No.1 hit in 1982 with the pop group, Tight Fit. Denise works as a television presenter and voice over artist,

she’s presented TV programmes from D.I.Y to Bringing up Baby and even been a cookery expert !

In fact, she was chosen by BT to make 35 commercials, as the face and voice of their friends and family campaign. It seems her life is now filled to the brim as Tight Fit are back together again after 29 years, performing up and down the country.

But, she has a real passion is the ‘all4kids’ confidence building school holiday workshops that she runs here in Wimbledon at Ursuline Prep. With her background, love of children

all4kids Confidence building school holiday workshops for children aged between 5yrs and 12yrs. No experience needed...just energy and a smile.

5 days of singing,dancing and acting fun, working towards a 'workshop show' on the last afternoon for friends and family to see!

Wimbledon Ursuline Prep School, The Downs, Wimbledon SW19 Don't think about it if you like having fun..... you'll LOVE this Camp You send the child, we will find the performer.

Charlie, Denise and Toni

and big sense of fun, it’s easy to see why children love these workshops and come back time and time again. Add to this the ‘open mic’ nights she does at Hemingways Lounge Bar every Wednesday and it’s a wonder she has any energy left for her family life. But, with two daughters and a village like Wimbledon, there’s always some energy left for the theatre, shopping or a meal to catch up on what’s happening in the world of The Watermans.

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hotels

DID SOMEONE MENTION A WEDDING?

T

wo years in the planning, General Manager, Jeff Ward’s dream extension to the Cannizaro House restaurant is finally open. The Loggia is a twenty seat extension on the eastern side of Wimbledon’s grandest hotel, designed in the style of an Italian loggia but glassed in from the elements. With 14 chefs in the kitchen producing the high quality British/European menu, the restaurant serves its usual high quality food using locally sourced products that are at their freshest and thoroughly deserve of their 2 AA Rosette rating.

Diners look out over the seasonal, sunken garden towards the belvedere pavilion where Jeff has at last secured permission to host civil marriage ceremonies and weddings, al fresco in any weather. Jeff told Darling, “It was a royal battle to ensure the additions merged gracefully with the Hotel’s original architecture.”

He’ll be working with Chris Mountford, Chair of the Friends of Cannizaro Park and Doug Napier, head of Parks for Merton to maintain and plant the gardens in this lovely area of the Park.

Champagne all round!

A Special Dining Offer at Cannizaro House this April 2 courses for 2 people for £35 Come along and see the latest extension to the restaurant at Cannizaro House, The Loggia and take advantage of our fabulous offer.

A voucher must be downloaded from the offers page on cannizarohouse.com Terms and conditions apply.

Cannizaro House, West Side, Wimbledon Common, SW19 4UE 020 8879 1464 | cannizarohouse.com

story

Maya Aviram, teacher, artist and now explorer tells Darling about her life changing trip

W

hat should a woman who’s fast approaching her half centennial do when facing this inevitable ‘dead’-line? Fall into a depression or realise that 50 could be a new beginning, just the right age to rediscover her youth that she’d swapped over the last two plus decades for family commitments. I opted for the latter. Two years ago I’d followed my son’s gap-year journey through India with the help of ‘The Rough Guide to India’ but from the comfort of my home. I decided to follow suit. I felt that I had to get out of my comfort zone to make that new beginning.

The cautious, insecure, usedto-comfort adult in me kept nudging me, telling me to join an organised tour rather than do it by myself. But my son and the not-yet-completely-dead youngster in me urged me not to do it. I obeyed the latter two: a good decision!

Equipped with my daughter’s pink-and-grey ex-Scouts backpack and a copy of ‘The Rough Guide’ and a stomach full of butterflies (by the time I was actually ready to go, this idea seemed far less romantic than initially perceived) I bid my two children and hubby good-bye and embarked on my life-changing 3 ½ week journey to India.

There’s absolutely no way I can cram all my experiences, adventures and feelings during

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my journey to this vast, beautiful and amazing country into a short article. That wasn’t the idea anyway. I only want to share with you the ‘bottom line’, namely that this journey did a lot more for me than I’d hoped for or expected. The 49 year-old mum of two, travelling all by herself with a pink backpack, staying in low to mid-budget (i.e. £8 a night) hostels, often not exactly clean and cosy, travelling second class or lower on trains, buses, rickshaws and motorbikes, started feeling younger by the day! After overcoming the initial culture shock and easing into the traveller’s mode, I felt that I was happily accepted as a day-travel companion by people not much older than my son. I ambled through the streets of Jaipur, Pushkar and Cochin, happily smiling at, waving to and chatting with the locals and fellow backpackers.

I lost a few kilos, gained confidence and a new ‘joie de vivre’ and felt amazingly young and

carefree. And I forgot to mention an added bonus: my family now appreciates and loves me more than ever!! And I’ve cancelled the Botox treatment and counselling session. A trip to India is by far cheaper, more fun and the effects longer lasting!

spiritual

SUFFERING IS OPTIONAL Alessandro Ferullo continues to give Darling readers an Eastern approach to life through the art of Chi Gong

T

he Universe is like a bellows. It stays empty yet is never exhausted. It gives out yet always brings forth more Tao Te Ching What do you mean by ‘suffering is optional’?

Sometimes it feels like we are stuck in our suffering, it almost becomes a habit. So we have a choice whether we continue in the same way or look at ways to dissolve the suffering without too much confrontation. Through the practice, we tune into the Chi or energy which helps us.

By resting the body and mind in this state we create more space within and the suffering (or habits) can often dissolve away quickly and unnoticed. The Chi works with its own intelligence and dissolves or transforms the suffering. In addition, we become more grounded, present and empowered in the now and more inspired.

capacity to ‘switch off ’ from that emotion too. With practice, we learn to do this.

Can you explain more about transforming or dissolving fear?

‘Hua’ in our Hua Gong style means to melt, transform or dissolve. For example, when we practice the tiger form (one of the 5 animals) our fear can transform into strength – it becomes a soft and internal power. So the practice benefits us emotionally, nourishes our kidneys (fear being an emotion related to the kidneys), and we improve our health at the same time.

How we can turn the practice into a source of creativity?

Through the practice of Chi Gong, we get more inspiration and clarity in our lives. We find our artistic abilities can be awakened in many areas.

In the next issue we will explore issues of life and death and deepen our understanding of these major issues so we can worry less and enjoy more.

Monday Evening Classes 7.30- 8.30pm (drop in classes) Wimbledon Village Club Hall, corner Ridgway and Lingfield Road Contact Alessandro Ferullo 020 8540 3714 alessandro@flowinghealth.co.uk www.chineseheritage.co.uk

How do you understand the nature of our emotions?

We know that we can make ourselves happy by thinking of a happy event in our lives and similarly can make ourselves feel sad by thinking of or remembering a sad event from the past. So we have the power to awaken or ‘switch on’ an emotion like a light. If this is the case, it must follow that we have the darling/Feb - Marh 2011

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

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DUCHESS OF CORNWALL VISITS WIMBLEDON CHASE

Celebrations for World Book Day at Wimbledon Chase School. Photo by John Stone.

L-R: HRH Camilla Duchess of Cornwall, Rachel Russell, Chair of World Book Day and Fiona Razvi, Organizer Wimbledon Bookfest. Photo by John Stone.

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MAYORAL CHARITY BALL AT THE ALL ENGLAND CLUB

L-R: Michael Beresford, Cllr Oonagh Moulton, Mayor of Merton, Thomas Moulton and Marsha Beresford from Macmillan.

That’s what we tell the destitute single mothers of Kathmandhu, who have leprosy and are lucky if they can earn 80p a week in a carpet factory. In the corrugated tin school room we have put on the roof of our leprosy hospital we ensure that their children have not just a healthy future but one with far better prospects. A year’s tuition, books, stationery, a uniform and a pair of shoes costs just £65 per child. Send us £65 and we’ll write your name on your child’s schoolbook. All their lives they’ll remember who to thank.

Reg charity no: 1090760

L-R: Cllr Gilli Lewis-Lavender, Sally Aitken-Davies, Rachel Lewis-Lavender and Jill Truman.

Please send any cheques made payable to Promise Nepal: Dr Maggie Burgess, Promise Nepal, Shopwyke Hall, Chichester PO20 2AA www.promisenepal.org.uk

L-R: Cllr Gilli Lewis Lavender, Margaeret Payne (Macmillan) and Cllr Suzanne Evans.

These sixth form pupils were certainly taken through their paces!

PRESENTATION SKILLS WORKSHOP HELD

BY NATHALIE BAUR AT URSULINE HIGH << darling/April - May 2011

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OPENING OF NEW BIKRAM YOGA STUDIO ON ELM GROVE

L-R: Rupert Walsh, Raj Sharma, Kris Liotta & Sanja Verma.

L-R: Rupert Walsh, Phoebe Walsh, Miranda Slater (back row), Theo Walsh, Monty Slater (front row).

NATHALIE BAUR HOSTS WWIB EVENT AT L.K.BENNETT

L-R: Caroline Geraerts, Catherine Green, Chantelle Gilbert & Martine Mansurian.

L-R: Sophie Heyman, Daniela Cadoni, Olivia Tatton-Brown, Chrissie Facon, Emily Smith & Nathalie Baur.

L-R: Nick Flynn, Nathalie Baur, Annick Gorman & Meela Phillips.

L-R: Debbie Knight, Marie-Helen Rodriguez, Katharine Mancuso, Grania Sweeting & Alice Wood.

ELOISE OPEN EVENING

PARENT PRACTICE EVENT

L-R: Ann Vieira, Cathy Beck, Harriet de Wolff, Nicola Short & Gill Upton.

L-R: Ann Magalhaes, Elaine Halligan and Hollymount Head & Hollymount School Head, Phillipa Jackson.

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FULLER GILBERT KINGSTON BRANCH CHARITY FUND RAISER

AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATED IN STYLE

L-R: Cathy Williams, Suzy Andrews, Sue Lewis, Susan Cornelius and Madeleine Tucker.

L-R: Sarah Martin, Ladies At 11, Kashmira Jhaveri, Ant Design, Fran Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell, Pam White, Fuller Gilbert and Nikki Howard from Momentum.

WIMBLEDON VILLAGE STABLES CHARITY BALL AT CANNIZARO HOUSE L-R: Yasmin Lambada, Debbie Owen, Barbara Zarzycki, Julie Harding and Jenny Kugler.

L-R: Jayne Clarke, Angela Stewart, Carol Andrews, Barbara Arnheim, Nigel Toussaint (Quinton Scott).

L-R: Alison Combe, Val Morrison, Sue Ross and Viv Rogan.

L-R: Claire Mallett, Anna Shelmerdine, Caroline Stevenson, Elizabeth Bottriell, Patrick Print OBE & Sarah Chittenden.

SPOTTED AT OPEN MIC EVENING AT HEMMINGWAYS

>> L-R: Malory Torr, compere - Denise Waterman, Toni Tuesday and Simon Goudarzi.

darling/April - May 2011

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NETWORKING AT CANNIZARO HOUSE

OPENING OF NEW SHAPE2FIT STUDIO IN SOUTH WIMBLEDON

L-R: Charmaine Mace, Paula Trovalusci, Tiffany Cartwright, Laura Hart and Claire Jefferies.

L-R: Sarah Ives, Joan Pearson, Laura Brooks, seated, Lauren Pearson (Director), Roberta Spence and Sarah Bell.

PRO’S, NO CONS AT DAVID LLOYD

Athena Network Wimbledon celebrates 4th birthday!

Tennis Pro’s exciting demonstration match. L-R: Danny Thomas, Russel Smith, Simon Konov and Justin de Villiers.

Want to be seen in Wimbledon?

Advertise your business in darling today! darlingmagazine.co.uk | 07930 396356 30

darling/April - May 2011

travel

Chic Locations can make your holiday dreams come true

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year ago, I left corporate life in Central London with the idea of spending more time with the family and enjoying the local life, the tennis club and seemingly endless coffee mornings and social soirees.

However when the opportunity presented itself to set up a travel specialist company in Wimbledon Village, focusing on family and boutique resorts in both the Med and the tropics, I could not turn it down. Travel has always been my passion, and arranging dream holidays for others, my joy.

And so CHIC was born. A new tour operator yet with a wealth of experience, CHIC Locations launched with a 132 page brochure, featuring selected family and boutique resorts in the Med, Indian Ocean, Far East, Arabia and Caribbean.

My husband David, who is also a partner in the company, is well known in the travel industry for his candid, forthright views and has a wonderful observational sense of humour, based on years of personal experience.

David has a deadpan delivery of the written and spoken word, something he emphasises particularly in our brochure.

Frequently our clients embrace this honesty. Of Havana, Cuba, David writes “one of

the most exciting cities I have ever witnessed, also one of the safest with probably the greatest danger falling down a pothole on one of the mainly unlit streets.

Wonderful old brightly coloured cars, seemingly powered by an ancient soviet tractor engine, you hear them long before they lurch kangaroo fashion into view.“ Or in Thailand , where we have both spent wonderful holidays, even occasionally together, David indicates the country has great hotels and total excitement and scenic contrasts, but expect moments of complete confusion taking into account the Thai’s fondness for saying “Yes“ to every question without having a clue what you are actually asking .

Wonderful experiences that remain forever. Getting up close and personal with Orang Utans in Malaysia, swimming with whale sharks (our son Dominic says they are harmless!) in the Maldives whilst Mummy enjoys a spa treatment underwater. Or trace the celebrity steps of Julia Roberts & Javier Bardim (Eat, Pray, Love) in Bali.

So whether you are looking for a family or a couples retreat, or a cultural option, we’d love to assist. And if you still have not planned your summer holiday or even May half-term do give

CHIC a call on 020 8944 1973 or email sales@chiclocations.com.

74 High St, Wimbledon Village.

Marie-Hélène Rodriguez 07957 207 222 www.chiclocations.com darling/April - May 2011

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health

Lagoon brings the Garra Rufa fish pedicure to Wimbledon Known for centuries to the locals in Kangal, Turkey, the secret of the Garra Rufa fish pedicure was discovered two hundred years ago by two brothers relaxing after a long trek with their feet in the river. Now this phenomenon which has swept the world, has reached Wimbledon with the

opening of Lagoon on Alexandra Road (next to HSBC Bank).

After a hygienic foot wash and health check of your feet, you sit in relaxing surroundings with your feet in a glass aquarium tank and the fish gently nibble the layer of dry skin from your feet.

This exotic type of pedicure is completely painless, a sensation similar to bubbles in a Jacuzzi.

Stimulating both the acupressure points and blood flow to the feet, the fish spa gently exfoliates to soften your feet, leaving them

feeling smooth and revitalized.

As an additional benefit the fish saliva also contains diathanol, an enzyme used in skin care products to promote skin regeneration.

Lagoon also offers relaxing hand and foot massage, manicure and pedicure to complete your treatment package and leaving you feeling totally pampered.

Lagoon, 139 Alexandra Road, Wimbledon, SW19 7JY. Tel. 020 8947 2332 www.lagoonspa.co.uk

homeopathy

HOMEOPATHY FOR FATIGUE Maria Jevtic, local homeopath, wakes us up to some tiring facts

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re you feeling tired? Do you need several cups of coffee to keep you going through the day? Are you sleeping well, but still not ready to go in the morning?

You may be one of many people suffering from a common 21st century stress syndrome called adrenal fatigue. Your adrenal glands have many functions, but one of them is to control your fight and flight response.

This normal body reaction is designed to get you through an enormously threatening situation such an attack by a wild animal. Your adrenal glands work hard to make you fast and furious and able to either escape or attack, both of which are reactions which demand extreme physical exertion. The problem is that nowadays when we perceive stress we do not have this extreme physical reaction coupled to it. The result is that

“Unfortunately, most of us do not know how to replenish adrenal resources” our adrenal hormones do not get processed properly and cause us to feel stressed for a very long time after the event has passed.

Another problem is that we are faced with stressful situations very often and so our adrenal glands are working overtime and demand a number of specific nutrients to keep up their job and recover afterwards.

Unfortunately, most of us do not know how to replenish adrenal resources, but on the contrary use stimulants such as coffee, tea and sugar to give us artificial energy. But these non-food items

just make the situation worse as they cover up the problem, let us continue as before and do not give our body what it needs.

Eventually, both the adrenal glands as well as the rest of the body suffer. The result is a constant feeling of tiredness which is not relieved by sleep or even holiday.

There are varying degrees of this syndrome, but the truth is that helping yourself is very difficult. This is because the adrenal glands – once they are affected – need specific nutrients and some changes of life-style to recover.

In my practice I use laboratory testing to determine the state of your adrenal glands. Once the results have come through I design a homeopathic and nutritional programme to help recovery from this very common problem. The programme will include individualised life-style advice such as exercise, sleep routines and stress management as well as nutritional supplements and dietary changes.

Homeopathic remedies are given to address any emotional factors and also to help to rebalance your body so it may be able to cope better with 21st century living.

Maria Jevtic BSc (Hons) LCHE RSHom DNTh mBANT

t: 020 8946 8526 m: 07704 232 117 e: maria@jevtics.net www.familyhomeopathy.co.uk darling/April - May 2011

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legal

Questions and answers about your will by Hart Brown’s specialist Chris Thurlow

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recent survey conducted by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners has revealed substantial problems where will-writers have prepared invalid wills, disappeared and even committed fraud.

from clients who have previously dealt with inexperienced “willwriters”. Below, he attempts to answer some of these questions.

Chris Thurlow, a solicitor in Hart Brown’s Trust & Investment Department has received a number of queries

There is no legal requirement for a will to be “sealed and certified” this is merely a decoration added to make it look more formal.

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Does a will need to be “sealed and certified”?

A will can even be written on an egg-shell, (though I wouldn’t recommend it!).

What are the formal requirements of a will?

The person making the will must have the necessary mental capacity to make a will, they must know and approve the contents of the will and they

legal 0208 947 8171 chris.thurlow@hartbrown.co.uk www.hartbrown.co.uk

must sign it in the presence of two witnesses who must then counter-sign it in the presence of the person making the will.

Do I have to pay to store my will?

I often hear of people being charged more than £50 per year for the storage of their wills. The cost of making your will and then having it stored can very quickly escalate, which is why Hart Brown do not charge for storage of your will.

How much does it cost to change my address in my will?

If you or a beneficiary named in your will move home, there is no necessity to change your will, though you should consider reviewing it. A simple note left with the will stating the new address is sufficient and at Hart Brown there is no cost involved with this.

Do all solicitors charge a percentage of the estate?

Law Society Regulations state that solicitors are allowed to charge a percentage of the value of the estate for estate administration. Many solicitors

do take advantage of this.

However we do not. We charge on the basis of the time required to complete the work, which generally works out cheaper than a simple percentage.

What if there is an error in my will?

Hopefully, if you use an experienced and knowledgeable advisor you should not have this problem. However, we are all human and mistakes can happen.

If a solicitor has made an error in your will, they should be covered by indemnity insurance which will pay out the cost of that error.

What if my solicitor/will-writer ceases to exist?

The three main issues to consider are: • Where is your will?

• What if there is an error in it?

• Have you pre-paid any of your estate administration costs?

If the solicitor ceases practising, the Law Society will arrange for another solicitor to take charge of your will. They can advise you as to whom this will be. If your will was written by a will

writer who ceases to trade, it may be impossible to trace your will. If there is an error in your will, the Solicitors Compensation Fund will be there to help where a solicitor has ceased to practise, however if a will-writer has made the error and they cease trading, it is unlikely that your beneficiaries will be able to claim against them. Pre-payment of estate administration costs is risky. If the company that you have pre-paid ceases to exist, your money may be completely wasted.

What about inheritance tax?

Shockingly, a large number of wills advisors do not advise on inheritance tax. At a rate of 40%, inheritance tax can be a major factor in making decisions about your will. If your estate is likely to exceed £325,000, it is essential to seek inheritance tax advice so that you can make an informed decision.

If you have any questions relating to your will or estate, Contact Chris today T: 0208 947 8171 E: wills@hartbrown.co.uk Our website contains further information hartbrown.co.uk darling/April - May 2011

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building

Judith Pole chats to Darling

Having worked in the wine trade for many years, friends would ask how I could leave it all behind for structural engineering! “But Engineers are the unsung heroes of the construction industry”, I would reply, “they make sure buildings are safe and strong”.

That was 20 years ago and I am still on a mission to make structural engineering accessible to one and all. When homeowners contact our Wimbledon Village office they receive practical advice in jargonfree language from one of our

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experienced Chartered Structural Engineers.

If you are buying or selling a property, we can help with specialist reports to check for subsidence or specific defects such as bulging walls and sagging roofs.

There is a current trend to refurbish and extend homes and we can help you with your: extension loft conversion basement scheme

We provide all the calculations and drawings you need to meet building regulations requirements. You might simply want to start again and demolish your home and re-build a new one and we will guide you through the design process, working alongside your architect.

Whether your project is large or small, we are here to help.

Employing a structural engineer will be one of the best decisions you have ever made. pole.co.uk | 020 8944 9955

bridge

2 Hearts, Pass, Pass, Pass UK bridge guru and Financial Times bridge correspondent, Paul Mendelson shows us his hand

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ridge is a gymnasium for the mind. It exercises an array of different neural abilities: imagination, relationship skills, gambling instinct, risk evaluation, basic arithmetic, logic, deductive skills, problem solving, shortterm memory and the ability to focus on one thing for a few minutes at a time. What passes for entertainment in the media rarely challenges any of these, and this is why intelligent people despair of the media and increasingly turn to a game of sheer brilliance. What better than to enjoy a mind-stretching pastime which can be played at every level, but which is - or should be - always sociable?

I played decent school-boy chess and deserted it within a week when I discovered just how amazing the game of Bridge really is. Other plans evaporated as the game increasingly absorbed me and now, twentyfive years of teaching, nine books and numerous articles later, I still love the game. What’s more, I am still improving. One of the world’s best bridge players got it dead right when he said: “The world’s best bridge players aren’t very good, and everyone else is a whole lot worse.” It takes a lifetime to realise that you will never completely master it.

Unlike Poker, which has stormed to first place in the hearts of British card-players, Bridge is almost entirely skill. It takes

time to learn, and better players will not take long to overcome weaker players. Poker is like a cheap drug which offers sporadic highs and then many long periods of stress and distress.

Once you can comprehend the three dimensional aspects of Bridge, the game is fascinating hand after hand, forever. So, put down your crosswords, Sinkerate those Suduko puzzles, and lay down your gaming chips (unless you are studying with one of my Poker books...) And take up a game which will stimulate and satisfy for your whole life. The amassed thirty-somethings in my current evening class will attest to the fact that Bridge is no

Local teacher, Sue Strong.

longer fusty - it is the game of the new intelligencia.

Sue Strong, an experienced teacher of about 15 years and colleague of Paul Mendelson.

“Bridge is becoming increasingly popular among people with young families,” Sue says, “And there are several groups in and around the Wimbledon area who

are having private tuition with me. Some of the groups have been learning for 6 or 7 years and are now branching out and

A group of Sue’s eager students.

playing in competitions and charity events. This complicated game played between friends is a very pleasant way of socialising and spending an enjoyable evening exercising one’s brain,” she says, “It requires a good deal of application and hard work but all of that is richly rewarded and will keep you enthralled for life.” s43strong@talktalk.net Wimbledon Bridge Club is one of the UK’s biggest, busiest and friendliest bridge clubs. They run thirteen sessions a week and cater to all standards of play. If you like to play bridge, would like to learn to play, or if you are looking for a new hobby and to meet new people, do get in touch.

Wimbledon Bridge Club, Kenneth Black Memorial Hall, 56a Worple Road, London SW19 4EY wimbledonbridgeclub.co.uk T: 020 8947 0147 PAUL’S WEBSITE aceoftrumps.com darling/April - May 2011

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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

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true stories

You may have seen the film The Boat That Rocked, but do you know the real story? Darling spoke to Lucy Mayer, 107.8’s travel editor to find out more “In 1984, the station enjoyed its 15th birthday party at the Dog and Fox in Wimbledon Village”

Dave Owen (right) and a supporter pushing a ‘fieldpram’ with a transmitter on it in the 60’s!

I

f you turned on your radio in 1963, there were only three BBC stations to listen to.

By the mid 1960’s the UK was surrounded by offshore radio stations. These were outlawed in 1967 and replaced by the new BBC Radio 1 which was trying to copy the pirates. But still no commercial radio and nothing in South West London…until 1969 and the arrival of Radio Jackie.

Unlike the other radio stations, Jackie was land based, operating out of areas including Wimbledon Common and Morden Hall Park. By 1982, supported by the MP for Mitcham and Morden, Angela Rumbold, Jackie went live 24/7.

In 1984, the station enjoyed its 15th birthday party at the Dog and Fox in Wimbledon Village.

However, just a year later, Jackie was taken off the airwaves. It would be a long 18 years before it finally obtained a license and set up base in Tolworth Broadway, its home today.

There are over 60 on air presenters whether it be in programming, news or travel.

One of Jackie’s biggest strengths is its local news. The team is constantly researching and chasing stories and interviews, all on top of doing live in house news 24 hours a day– something unique to a London radio station. This community minded station ensures that a regular info slot also takes place each hour broadcasting information about local charity events free

of charge. This way people that are deserving of advertising but cannot afford to, get free airtime.

One thing that has remained true to Jackie throughout the years from when the pirate station was shut down in February 1985 to when it re-launched 8 years ago.

The doors are always open and the public is always welcome. All you have to do is stick your head around what is described lovingly in the office as the smallest door in the World, and within minutes you can be on a studio tour of what has always been the Sound of SW London.

Details lucy.mayer@radiojackie.com www.radiojackie.com listen live 24 hours a day

Dave Owen these days in the studio, lunchtimes weekdays on 107.8 Radio Jackie

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caring

“Well, Aged Parent,” said Wemmick, “How am we?”

Clare Jefferies from Homes Instead and the challenge of care at home

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ats off to working Mums!...and boy do we have a lot of hats. Wife, mother, sock fairy, chief cook and bottle washer!! Throw in a couple of terminally ill parents and life gets really tough. Trying to spread yourself between all your loved ones and the guilt that haunts you when you can’t be there when you know you should be. That was me for 5 years.

That is why I decided I had to make a difference to people in need of care at home and I opened a Wimbledon branch of Home Instead, to provide care and companionship when people need it, lessening the burden on already overstretched families. With our ageing population, elderly care provision is becoming a hot topic both in the news and in the family environment. Looking back, all I

needed was another me and that is what I think Home Instead is providing, an extension to the family when there just aren’t enough hours in the day.

I have lived in Wimbledon for over 20 years. With my husband and two lovely sons, I was right in the heart of it as an Estate Agent in the Village for 7 years.

I thought I knew everything that went on around me, but I hadn’t even scratched the surface. There is so much for older people to do if they have their health or indeed the inclination. In most libraries, church halls and day centres around the area, there are groups of people involved in some activity or social event.

to day tasks through ill health, age or simply loneliness can be avoided. Out of all the hats I wear in my life - I’m very happy to be wearing my Home Instead one. It fits very nicely!

T: 0208 942 4137 Visit: homeinstead.co.uk and go to the Wimbledon page

Take Betty, age 94, we pop in for a few hours a week to give her some companionship, otherwise she would see nobody. Betty hadn’t been out of the house for a long time and yet after weeks of reluctance we took her to dance in a church hall. She loved it and is now a regular and gets her hair done especially for that one special hour each week. And that to me is what it’s all about.

It doesn’t matter how old you are, struggling to cope with day Great Expectations - Dickens, (Illustration H.M. Brock)

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www.victorianweb.org

pets

Dogs behaving badly - not with Frank Cotton

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as your dog displayed aggressive or threatening behaviour when in contact with other dogs?

Do you pretend he or she belongs to someone else when confronted by a disgruntled, fellow dog owner?! Have you resorted to midnight runs and dawn walks to avoid the embarrassment of seeing the horror on other dog owners faces when you approach?

If yes, then you could benefit from some help from Frank! At a more sociable hour of course.

Frank has been a dog owner for most of his life and believes the most important word for any owner to teach their dog is 'Stay'!

If they will do that on command then dangerous situations become a lot easier to control.

By avoiding other dogs you are actually perpetrating the problem unnecessarily and that isn't any fun for you or your dog! There are few truly bad dogs, just badly socialised ones. With Frank’s help and guidance you could be sitting outside the 'Hand in Hand' or 'Crooked Billet' having a nice cool pint while your well behaved doggy friend gets together with

his new doggy pals around the water bowl!

Frank runs WIMBLEDON DOG SOLUTIONS which is an all purpose dog and pet care service based in Wimbledon Village. He provides a range of services including dog walking, dog training, house sitting, pet boarding, dog day care and pet grooming.

“What we aim to change is the average person’s view of what a dog walking service should provide,” says Frank. “We also provide one to one training so your dog becomes more comfortable in public areas like the Common, making it easier to care for and less of a risk to other dog walkers.”

“Frank has completely changed Zulu’s aggressive personality and has made dog walking a pleasure.” says Wimbledon resident, Marissa Quie.

Bring the pleasure back into 'walking the dog' by asking Frank to walk you through the steps to a calmer more rewarding way of dog ownership.

Frank Cotton: 07841706735 wimbledondogsolutions.co.uk

These training sessions can take place at the home, on the Common or wherever the owner feels it is necessary. Frank can train dogs at various different levels; from basic training such as sit, come etc. to running without a lead next to a bicycle, listening to commands at a distance and even the dog walking itself ! darling/April - May 2011

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contacts

creating connections, inspiring success

We are in the middle of a ‘Networking Explosion’ as more and more women are realising that this is by far, the most effective, supportive and exciting way to grow their business, develop their own skills and form great business relationships and alliances.

WIMBLEDON, PUTNEY, BALHAM, KINGSTON, SURBITON, STREATHAM, HAMPTON COURT Julie Eltham | julie@theathenanetwork.com | M: 07980 523 030 HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

London Borough of Merton Wimbledon Police www.merton.gov.uk 020 8947 1212 or (999) Citizen’s Advice Bureau Merton Council www.nacab.org.uk 020 8274 4901 Merton Chamber of Commerce NHS DIRECT www.mertonchamber.co.uk 0845 4647 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 NEW VIDEO ADVERTISING: Call 0793039 6356 42

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

charity

P

roject Pencil Case - Darling spoke to Arabella Stewart.

PPC started simply with the distribution of basic pencil cases to students on the streets of Addis Ababa after learning that students start school with just one pencil!

I spent my childhood in Ethiopia and a chance visit back in 2008 immediately reconnected me to my beloved first homeland and PPC was

Wimbledon Bookfest is in its 5th year. It is community run and the main festival will take place 1st9th October. Authors who have participated in previous years include Salman Rushdie, James Naughtie, Antony Gormley, Julian Fellowes, William Boyd, Tracey Chevalier, Maggie O’Farrell, Michael Morpurgo, Michelle Paver and Judith Kerr.

Bookfest’s Education Programme

and this year’s event why not visit their website at wimbledonguild.co.uk

Arabella Stewart & Mikele Goitom in Wimbledon town centre this spring.

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall at Wimbledon Chase Primary School. Photo by John Stone.

Wendy Bliss & Chrissie Craig organisers of Merton Arts Trail.

born. I now run PPC with Ethiopian born and raised teacher Mikele Goitom. We have just concluded a fundraising trip to the UK where we were based in Wimbledon where we received such wonderful support and enthusiasm! Particular thanks goes to Pastor Nigel of the Dundonald Congregational Church who arranged a fundraising event for us complete with home cooked and authentic Ethiopian cuisine prepared by members of the congregation! We were touched by the genuine warm welcome we received and will be making Wimbledon our base on future trips. PPC is seeking sponsorship to be able to fully develop and expand school projects in Ethiopia and English schools to twin with PPC schools in Addis Ababa. We also need UK volunteers to raise funds and awareness through coffee mornings or sponsored walks etc! projectpencilcase@gmail.com projectpencilcase.org

is borough-wide in Merton and runs throughout the year across all socio-economic groups. Over 35 state and independent schools have taken part in Bookfest events. This year the theme of Wimbledon Bookfest’s annual Young Writers’ competition is The Great Escape. It was launched at Wimbledon Chase School on World Book Day, 3rd March, by Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall where she read to the children from Winnie the Pooh.

Fiona Razvi T 07920 773469 fiona. razvi@wimbledonbookfest.org

local artists the opportunity to open their doors to show, and possibly sell, their work in a relaxed and informal environment. Visitors to their studios can discuss the work on the spot with their creators! ‘There has been huge interest, and we are so pleased that this not-forprofit project has been so enthusiastically received’ says Chrissie, ‘so far we have had more than 50 artists express interest, and we’ve hardly started’.

The Wimbledon Village Fair on the 18th June from 10.30am to 5pm, is the Wimbledon Guild’s biggest event of the year, attracting up to 20,000 people and raising much needed funds for its services. It showcases a horse show, dog show, 150 stalls and various entertainments throughout the day.

Enjoying the Fair is a great way to support the work of the Wimbledon Guild and it’s a great day out! To find out more about the Wimbledon Guild

The Merton Arts Trail is on the road! Co-Founders Wendy Bliss & Chrissie Craig are delighted with the way artists are signing up to join in this fun event, scheduled for 8th-9th and 15th-16th October. Many towns and villages nationwide have an Arts Trail, an umbrella forum to give

‘It feels good to be creating an event which will unite the borough through the arts and benefit artists and local businesses alike’ says Wendy. ‘With the website up and running, we are hoping visual artists from all quarters of Merton will participate in this inclusive event from Mitcham to Wimbledon Common. Painters, print makers, photographers, ceramicists, artists of every kind, are all invited to join the Merton Arts Trail. info@mertonartstrail.org.uk. mertonartstrail.org.uk

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Our guide to spring 2011 EASTER TREATS Wimbledon Village Business Association are holding a big Easter Egg Hunt around THE VILLAGE on Sunday 17th April from 11am - 1pm www.wimbledon-village.com MORDEN HALL PARK Easter Egg Hunt on Thurs 21st & 23rd – 25th April from 11am 3pm. Admission £3 per child.

T 020 8545 6850 TENNIS WIMBLEDON PARK Male and female tennis players of all standards are warmly invited to join the next round of their local league. It’s the best way to improve and we get great feedback. “I have really enjoyed playing in the league (my first time) and have met some very nice people” said one new member. Closing date 15th April. www.localtennisleagues.com/ wimbledonpark

ANNUAL TOWN AND COUNTRY MAY FAYRE Mordon Hall Park Family Fun Day over Bank Holiday w/end.

30th April - 2nd May 10am - 6pm T 020 8545 6850

- 23th April Fears of the dark just melt away. Little Elephant 13th April - 23rd April 4-7yrs.

Scarecrow 26th April - 7th May 5-9yrs. Rip, Fold, Scrunch 3rd May - 7th May 2-5yrs

MERTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EVENTS 19th April - PR on a Shoestring £30 non members.

12th April, 10th May, 24th May Thinking of Starting a New Business - course free.

5th May - Art of effective sales £30 non members.

11th - May Business Forum Meeting - free.

24th May - Go Green Toolkit free.

14th July AGM Networking at Cannizaro House - free. www.mertonchamber.co.uk T 020 8944 5501

CENTRE COURT 11am - 1pm & 2pm - 4pm daily Free Easter Activities 11th - 15th April

POLKA THEATRE Tales from Old Japan 5-8yrs 9th April. On-Off 12th April

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE Swan Lake on Ice 5th - 9th April Joseph 19th - 23rd April Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella 3rd - 7th May Horrible Histories 24th - 28th May LOVE SINGING? Course to find your own voice.

4th May - 13th July Wed’s 7:30pm - 8:30pm Wimbledon Village Club Hall Call Elaine: 07956 323782 www.singersandsongs.com

STUNNING EDWARDIAN SEMI TO RENT Wimbledon area - walk to Raynes Park Station and amenities. 4 Bedroom stylish, unfurnished home on desirable, quiet road.

Private garage and garden. £4200p.m. Call 077747 13850

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

CHALET TO LET - NEW FOREST Lovely, comfortable, small 3 bed chalet with garden to rent, 5 mins from sea, incl. dishwasher. Weekends from £150.

Details - Sue Young 01590 683805.

SPECIALIST CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Free, no obligation estimates. All work guaranteed & insured. Est 1983 with many Wimbledon clients.

Gary 07949 084693 | E: g-bristow@btconnect.com bristowclean.co.uk

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)

EXTRA MATHEMATICS GCSE, IB, A/AS LEVELS Lessons in Raynes Park area.

Over 30 years experience in education.

E: nector.education@gmail.com T: Dr Gan on 07837 293983

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points of view

The Taming of the Shrews

By Kate Greenhalgh

D

anny Boyle’s thrilling production of ‘Frankenstein’ at the National Theatre has a scene worthy of Hitchcock, showing the gory destruction of the monster’s bride. True to Mary Shelley’s original, this ‘monstrous Eve’ is torn to pieces by her creator on her wedding night, while her intended looks on impotently. “Shall each man,” he cries, “find a wife for his bosom, and each beast have his mate, and I be alone?”

You can understand his chagrin, but does anyone ask Mrs Frankenstein if she’d have settled for a life with bad plastic surgery, married off to a bloke with stitches all over his whatsits, and forced to live miles from the nearest L K Bennett? Mary herself, a formidably welleducated teenage girl, didn’t do as she was told, after all, and chose an extremely unarranged marriage.

“Girls,” I said sternly to my students as we read the text, “this is powerfully analogous of the female struggle for selfdetermination. Here we have woman literally as construct for a male. In the same way, I hope that I am not preparing you for university, just for you to be swept up by a suitable future bread-winner there, and cop out.”

Which obviously brings me to Kate Middleton, (I had to

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contrive an angle on it - you must be sick of Royal Wedding articles by now) as she is turned into ‘a Kate conformable as other household Kates’, propelled into an imperialist, patriarchal institution which won’t have any use for her good 2:1 in Art History, and will probably set her on a path of doing as she is told, producing yet more heirs to the throne, even though we seem to have quite a backlog of them already.

“Girls!” I trilled, warming to my theme, and starting to feel a bit like Miss Jean Brodie, if not Miss Havisham, “it is vital that you do not trade your talents, education and independence for a house in

Oxshott, an Aga and an account at Harvey Nicholls.” ( I could see I was really getting through to them now - what a horrible fate.)

“Are you saying that Kate Middleton is a kind of monster, then, Mrs Greenhalgh, who should rather have been torn to pieces at birth than left to meet a nice man at university, find the fulfillment of motherhood and become Queen of England?” asked one girl, “or have you illogically chased a false analogy into a rhetorical dead-end, which is a hallmark of the weaker female intellect?”

Maybe there really is no point in educating girls.

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