Meridian Magazine August 2016 issue

Meridian August 2016 ÂŁ1.00 Where Sold

All you need to know about Chislehurst

Your Local What, Where and When Magazine

Win

Tickets for thge Homebuilding & Renovatin Show

www.devernois.fr

You deserve it. Embrace our Autumn range and experience a warm indulgence from our delicate yet distinct and unique French style.

We know you will adore it!

42 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath SE3 0BD (T) 020 8318 5998 Mon - Sat: 10am-6pm Sun: 11am - 4pm

HELLO This month we’ve dedicated our cover to wonderful, Chislehurst.

The cover, designed by local resident and creative, Mark Stockdale-Hughes, and inspired by the art deco destination posters, is also available to buy from Visit Chislehurst, with profits going to three local charities. Read more about the local success of the poster and Chislehurst on page 15.

On page 13, we talk to intu Bromley’s General Manager, Kate Miller, about the changes their new restaurant terrace will bring to the area, opening up more dining choices (you’ll have to read the interview to find out what culinary delights to expect!), and with extended dining hours, to boot.

In case you hadn’t noticed, the summer holidays are here!

Whether you’re dreading them or looking forward to having some family time - it can be hard to keep the kids busy for six full-on weeks. Apparently, kids scream the phrase, ‘I’m bored’ up to five times a day. With your nerves in mind, we’ve put together a guide of local activities available for kids, to keep you going until the end of August.

lessons, your little ones can be entertained while you enjoy a meal...while it’s still hot.

And it’s not just the kids having all the fun: when you live in SE London, being a local tourist is easy to do. There is always somewhere new to eat, new events, exhibitions, new things to see and do - we look at enjoying all the adventures Greenwich can throw at you this summer - with the experts, Visit Greenwich.

We get top tips about keeping hair and sun safe and looking healthy during summer from beauty expert, Joanna Dodds.

Inspire you to try something authentic and alfresco in Food and Drink. Encourage you to think about life learning in Education, and channelling your creative side in Art and Design.

Enjoy your summer, and enjoy the issue

We also discover how family-friendly restaurants are stepping the game up to make families feel welcome. So don’t think twice this summer about eating out. From crèches to Spanish

The Meridian Team xx

INSIDE THIS ISSUE....

TOUCH WOOD P9

TAKE AN ADVENTURE P18-19

CHISLEHURST P15

HEALTH P21

KIDS OUT & ABOUT P29

THE PERFECT PLACE P13

WHAT TO DO P36-38

Meridian MAGAZINE

AU G U S T 2 0 1 6 Publisher: Joy Johnston Editor: Valerie Breese Art & Production Director: Paul McPherson Display Sales: Cheryl Voller Emma Forbes April Hartley-Watson Claire McKinson Classified Sales: April Hartley-Watson Sarah Smith Social Media: Melissa Wright Contributors: Mark Stockdale-Hughes Visit Greenwich Ed Simmons-Photography James Haddrell Kate Miller Tamsyn Clark Accounts: Janet Franklin Printing: Headley Brothers Ltd Distribution CWT Meridian Line Publishing Ltd 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley, Kent DA5 2EE Tel: 01322 557794 Email: enquiries@meridian-magazine.co.uk

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk facebook.com/meridianmagazine

MeridianmagLDN Meridian Magazine is for you, published monthly and distributed to selected residential properties and businesses within the Royal Borough of Greenwich and in Blackheath, Westcombe Park, Charlton, Eltham, Lee, Hither Green, Bromley and Chislehurst. Copies also go to Greenwich Tourist Information Centre, libraries and leisure centres, pubs, restaurants and hotels. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (including advertisement designs) without prior written permission will result in legal action. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily shared by the editor or the publisher.

Meridian’s Birthday Celebrations Rocked

LOVE LOCA L

As part of Meridian’s twentieth birthday celebrations the Meridian team took the magazine out to several high profile events in July including Greenwich Music Time, Blackheath Foodie Festival and the Greenwich Comedy Festival. People loved getting in the giant frame and having their photo taken as part of our celebration, and the love heart treats that were given away went down a storm... ...“Oh I know Meridian, I get it through my letterbox every month” “What a great idea, can I buy a copy?”

The InterContinental® London – The O2 Leading UK hotel owner and operating company, the Arora Group, hosted the official opening of the new InterContinental London – The O2. Founder and Chairman of the Arora Group, Surinder Arora, was joined by special guests Sir Cliff Richard OBE, Thomas Miserendino, President & CEO of AEG (owners of The O2) and Richard Solomans, CEO InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®) (pictured right) at the event attended by local partners, clients and stakeholders involved in the development of the landmark hotel designed and built by Grove, the construction division of Arora Group.

The InterContinental London – The O2, offers luxury accommodation, a spa and five destination restaurants and bars plus extensive facilities for meetings and events. It features one of the largest hotel function suites in Europe, The Arora Ballroom, a 3,100sqm pillar-free space. www.iclondon-theo2.com - @InterConTheO2

WIN

DINN ER FOR T WO

Kasturi A Taste of India

The new Kasturi Restaurant in Charlton Village is set to redefine the common Indian dining experience. Diners can enjoy the culinary taste of Pakthoon cuisine from the north-west frontier Provinces of India, at its best.

The menu comprises of Indian food - as it should be, with robust aromas, glowing colours and evocative flavours. All the dishes are cooked to authentic recipes using freshly ground spices, specially blended by the chefs.

This award-winning restaurant also provides catering services for parties and special occasions.

Farmopolis The great plant rescue at Farmopolis will relocate thousands of plants from the rhs Chelsea flower show to create a true green oasis for the capital. Situated on the jetty at Greenwich Peninsula, this floating garden will host a dynamic summer programme of live music, experiential supper clubs, literary salons, immersive theatre and creative workshops, transforming the Jetty into a hub of creativity and wellbeing and offer visitors the opportunity to re-home a piece of RHS Chelsea Flower Show history. www.farmopolis.com.

WIN - To celebrate the launch of the Kasturi restaurant, one lucky reader will win dinner for two with a bottle of wine.

To enter go to www.meridian-magazine. co.uk/win, or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to: win@meridian-magazine.co.uk or, send a postcard with your details to: Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE. www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME RID IA N INT ERIO RS

9

Touch wood Furniture fads may come and go, but classic solid wood furniture has a timeless quality that endures.

We know this to be the case, since antique wooden furniture items are as popular as ever. But whether you favour an aged, vintage look or a more modern, contemporary design, there’s a style of wooden furniture to suit everyone.

Durability – modern lifestyles tend to be fast paced and busy, with lots of coming and going, so we all need furniture that can keep pace and withstand the inevitable knocks and bumps that happen along the way.

Solid wood furniture is an investment, depending on the item and type of wood, but you know that you are buying a quality piece that will last and last.

Since our living spaces are shrinking, this decade has seen furniture with a smaller profile.

Large and ponderous furniture pieces seem out of place in today’s modern homes. The shift towards smaller piece also goes hand-in-hand with a liking for less ornate furniture, and a preference for a more contemporary style.

Multifunctional furniture is not a new concept by any means. But it has really come into its own, as there is a rising demand for it, right now. This could also be a factor of smaller space living. When space is at a premium, you need furniture that can perform multiple tasks.

A lot of buyers are looking for extra storage to reduce clutter. You can find storage in tables, under beds, and also in entertainment consoles.

Owen Pine and Oak

The re-birth of pine furniture Pine furniture has become increasingly popular again due to a fashion for the eclectic country shabby chic style. At Owen Pine and Oak, they stock a large range of pine and oak kitchen and bedroom furniture which can be finished in a number of different waxes or any Farrow and Ball colours.

Antique pine furniture is also making a revival, as it is robust, yet beautiful, and fits into any contemporary family home. It works alongside reproduction pine or painted furniture and each piece adds character and warmth to a room.

Owen Pine and Oak have a regularly changing stock of antique pine, all of which can be viewed on their website or in their extensive barn showroom. www.owenpine.co.uk 01959 534645 Owen Farm, Orpington, Kent, BR67PW

Also new to the show is interior designer and experienced architect Mariana Pedroso, who will be attending the exhibition on all three days of the event. She will be available to offer help and advice on renovation, remodelling, extension and all aspects of interior design and decorating.

TICKE TS

According to latest research from mortgage lender, Halifax - Greater London’s property prices have risen by 432 per cent, per square metre over the past two decades. With the capital city’s housing market skyrocketing, The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show, sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, will return to ExCeL, London this September, where it is set to attract a host of new visitors looking for advice and resources to add value by remodelling their homes or building them from scratch to reap the benefits of the buoyant property sector.

This year, The Homebuilding & Renovating Show is also presenting a new merchant partnership with Jewson, Britain’s leading chain of sustainable timber and building resources, to maximise its construction and product exhibitor portfolio for attendees.

Keen self-builders and renovators will have the opportunity to talk to over 350 specialist companies from a variety of industries including architecture; kitchens; bathrooms; heating; design; ventilation; lighting; doors and windows. 37 free masterclasses and seminars on self-build and home improvement topics, as well as 750 advice sessions with the country’s leading architects and experts, will also be available at the event for those requiring bespoke advice. The annual show will be brimming with guidance and inspiration to ensure that people attending the exhibition will be able to put theory into practice to give life to a project, commence a build or complete a restoration.

ExCeL, London, 23-25 September www.london.homebuildingshow.co.uk/london 20 pairs of tickets to the LH&R Show are on offer. To enter, visit: www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/win or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to win@meridian-magazine.co.uk Or send a postcard with your details to: Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME RID IA N RETAIL

13

The Perfect Place Kate Miller talks to Meridian about intu Bromley and the new Restaurant Terrace

Tell us about your role at intu Bromley?

As General Manager, I work closely with intu’s various teams to coordinate security, customer services, technical services and marketing. I have overall responsibility for the smooth running of the centre and to offer our guests the best shopping experience possible - along with great events! I also oversee a variety of projects in partnership with external groups such as: the Council, charities and voluntary organisations - to really make the centre a part of the Bromley community. It’s a great job.

It allows me to work with many different people on a range of interesting projects; no day is the same and there’s never a dull moment!

What do you like about Bromley?

Bromley has the best of both worlds: a great mix of interesting businesses and entertainment for the whole family; a quick train ride into London but also only a short journey away from some beautiful countryside.

When did you first decide to pursue a career with intu Bromley?

I worked at intu Lakeside before moving to intu Bromley, just over a year ago. Bromley is my local shopping centre, and somewhere I had always wanted to work, so I was delighted when the opportunity came up.

‘The nature of shopping centres is changing.

Customers desire more from their shopping experience’

What would you say has been the highlight of your work at the shopping centre to date?

The opening of the new Restaurant Terrace adjacent to Queen’s Garden has made a fundamental change to the centre, and has created hundreds of jobs, a great boost to the town’s economy and growth. Moreover, the development will add variety to the already vibrant food scene in Bromley with the addition of Wagamama, Ed’s Diner, Byron Burger, Giraffe and Project Pie – a new concept in pizza. The locals will be able to enjoy world-cuisine right on their doorstep without having to travel to London.

Also the dining hours have been extended until 11pm and car parking will be available until midnight, which will really improve the town’s nightlife.

The development is also sustainable and has a low impact on Queen’s Garden, a true local gem we all love and treasure.

What is your favourite place in Bromley and why?

I’m a big fan of The Church House Gardens next to the Churchill Theatre. It provides a quiet oasis from the hustle and bustle when I’m looking for a bit of tranquillity.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME RID IA N LOV E LO CAL

15

Wonderful Chislehurst…

www.visitchislehurst.org.uk

We hope you like this month’s front cover. It was inspired by local Chislehurst resident who was simply inspired by his wonderful town.

This unique retro-style illustrated poster has been created by Mark Stockdale-Hughes, Chislehurst resident and motion & graphics creative. In his own words, here’s how it came to be developed: “I hadn’t done any personal illustration for a while, (for my work I’m either designing, animating or filming), so I decided to start an illustration project just for fun and what better than taking a bit of local inspiration!’

‘I’d been looking at some graphics that were based on those art deco, idyllic travel posters, and as I pass the pond almost every day, I thought that might be a great focus for a Chislehurst based one.’

‘I always find the pond uplifting whatever the weather. There’s always something new to see as the colours, foliage and wildlife change throughout the seasons so I started by taking a series of reference photos for the illustration and then tried to weave some other elements in with a bit of artistic licence, such as the famous caves.’

‘The canopy of leaves in the illustrated tree are the actual leaves from the tree by the side of the pond

and it was nice to be able to incorporate the yellow iris which is now thriving and in bloom.’

‘The pond was one of the reasons we moved here nine years ago. We happened to be driving through Chislehurst on one of those perfect summer days; stopped for the afternoon and saw the green spaces and experienced the village feel and fell in love with the place. I hope I’ve managed to capture some of that in the design.”

After Mark created this image, it was posted on the Visit Chislehurst Facebook page, where over 8,000 people saw the illustration and hundreds of people liked and shared the post. With the local community behind it, The Chislehurst Society approached Mark directly to see if he would be happy to put the poster into print. He agreed and a percentage of the profits will go three remarkable organisations: The Chislehurst Society, The Trustees of the Commons and Visit Chislehurst – all who work tirelessly to create a ‘better’ Chislehurst!

On hearing about the response on Facebook, Mark further commented; “I was really amazed at how popular the design was when it was posted on the Visit Chislehurst

www.stockdalehughes.com Facebook page; it just shows how many other people love the area we live in and also that a bit of retro nostalgia lives on in this digital age.”

The poster complemented the Meridian magazine style so we simply had to make it this month’s front cover – we hope you agree that it is pretty special.

So why is Chislehurst so wonderful? As Mark says, the pond is the town’s most prominent landmark but combine this with the wonderful green spaces, picture-perfect cricket pitch, boutique shops and quality restaurants and finally, let’s not forget the world famous Chislehurst Caves, what is not to like?

If you would like to purchase one of these posters, please visit: www.visitchislehurst.org.uk/poster to find out more.

Written by Tamsyn Clark

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME RID IA N PRO PERT Y

17

Life after BREXIT. After the initial pause, life is returning to normal. There is a lot of speculation regarding prices, but people still want a home to live in.

The fundamentals of not enough homes to go around still applies and its never been cheaper to borrow money. I think we are going to be OK.

CHISLEHURST – PRICE ON APPLICATION

SHOW HOME COMING SOON – Exclusive development of five star luxury 2 and 3 bedroom apartments in excess of 1,200 sq. ft. with terrace or Juliet balcony. Two underground parking spaces and a lift to all floors. Enviable location just 0.5 miles from Chislehurst station. Register your interest now for an invitation to the show home launch. EPC TBA.

Feel free to contact Richard Piddock or Jonathon de Maid for any further help or to arrange a free valuation of your home.

Richard can be contacted at Blackheath 020 8463 0091 richard@jdmestateagents.com Jonathon at Chislehurst 020 8325 8000 jonathon@jdmestateagents.com

CHISLEHURST - £625,000

This two double bedroom mid terrace Victorian villa which backs onto Scadbury Nature Reserve is offered in lovely order certainly has the WOW factor. Retaining some of the original features there is an open plan living, dining and kitchen area with quality units topped off with black granite and doors opening onto a beautiful approximately 80ft garden. EPC D.

Established 1996

Blackheath 020 8463 0091

Locksbottom 01689 880440

Bromley 020 8313 6800

Petts Wood 01689 819819

Chislehurst 020 8325 8000

Lettings 01689 838040

M E R IDIA N LOV E LO CAL

The Old Royal Naval College from Island Gardens

Restoration work under way at the Painted Hall

Visit Greenwich, the destination management company for the Royal Borough of Greenwich, leads on marketing and developing Greenwich as a visitor destination for leisure and business. It is private sector led, working with partners to grow the visitor economy and boost the profile of Greenwich, for the benefit of businesses, visitors and residents.

Visit Greenwich

Take an adventure close to home

19

Up at The O2

Enjoy all the exciting adventures that Greenwich can throw at you!

Up at The O2

Ed Simmons

Tourism in the Royal Borough of Greenwich already generates £1.2 billion every year for the local economy, supporting over 15,000 local jobs. It is a sector seeing rapid growth, and with the objective to encourage longer stays and increased spend, Visit Greenwich promotes the destination as not only a great day out, but, more importantly, as a short break destination.

Visit Greenwich

The Thames Barrier

Ed Simmons

Emirates Air Line cable car at night

Thames RIB speed boat

Barrie Kelly, CEO, says: “It isn’t possible to do Greenwich in a day and, with the increase in accommodation in recent years, it makes sense to market Greenwich as a base for a London break. But we mustn’t overlook our local tourist, made up of residents across the borough and just beyond. They visit time and time again, throughout the year, as there is always something new to explore in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.”

You will know that Greenwich is well-known for its classic buildings and beautiful museums, riverside pubs and scenic walks. But did you know that there is so much more to explore for a day of adventure on your doorstep?

You can walk underneath the river, through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel: Built in 1902, the Foot Tunnel runs from Cutty Sark Gardens in Greenwich to Island Gardens on the opposite bank. From there you can look back at the Old Royal Naval College, the Queen’s House and the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park. This outstanding view has barely changed since Canaletto painted it, around 1750.

There’s another (more thrilling) way to get a look at this view – try powering past it in a

Thames RIB speed boat on an adrenalinepacked thrill trip. There’s a choice of extreme experiences which start out from Greenwich Peninsula near The O2 and piers in central London. It’s very exciting.

Greenwich Peninsula is an ideal spot for an entire day of adventure. After your mad river rush, cross the river more peacefully, but no less thrillingly, in the Emirates Air Line cable car. The cars fly across the river at 90 metres and you’ll experience spectacular views of London, from the Olympic Park to the Thames Barrier.

From there it’s only a few minutes’ walk to Up at The O2, where you can the climb over the roof of the tent and stand right on top of the most popular entertainment venue in the world. You’ll get geared up with everything you need for this exhilarating trek and be led by experienced guides to the top of the fantastic structure.

You’ll have 360 degree views of London’s Docklands, The Shard and the Thames Barrier.

And for a final dose of daring, visit Above and Beyond, the new interactive exhibition at the National Maritime Museum (runs until 29th August). Take an elevator ride to the edge of space and enjoy the view of Earth from above, or go on a Marathon to Mars and see how your body would cope on the long-haul trip to the red planet.

So enjoy all the exciting adventures that Greenwich can throw at you! visitgreenwich.org.uk

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME RID IA N HEALT H

21

Rescue Sun Damaged Hair and Skin Post-holiday or just sun bathing in the garden, prolonged exposure to sun can do damage to both our hair and skin. Regular summer activities and hair care routines could be making sun damage worse.

Joanne Dodds, beauty expert at Hairtrade.com, offered her advice.

“It’s easy to skip the UV spray on your hair and lay out in the sun for long periods of time. By the end of a fortnight away, hair can often feel dry, frazzled and in need of a good trim - due to sun damage. After time in the sun, your hair needs time to heal and these tips make sure your locks are back to normal in no time.”

Wash hair after swimming - Leaving chlorine in your hair after swimming is a definite no, as it dries it out further. Make sure you wash your hair before sunbathing to avoid additional damage.

Apply deep conditioner before sun exposure If you’re heading to the beach, avoid worsening the damage by applying a deep conditioner before you go out. This will soak in to your hair, rather than sitting on the surface like other products do, so will help to protect it.

Avoid ponytails - Wearing your hair down as much as possible will prevent the additional breakage that using a bobble can create. If you do go for a ponytail, make sure you wear it at slightly different heights each day to avoid too much pressure.

Rinsing your hair with cool water after washing will seal up the hair cuticles that have been opened by the hot water, therefore locking in the much-needed moisture gained from conditioning.

Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo - sulfate is a common ingredient in shampoo but can cause problems for damaged hair, as it strips beneficial oils. Minimise additional frizz by avoiding this ingredient as much as possible.

Go for a trim - Making sure you get rid of split ends is the key to shiny hair, especially important if your hair is dry from heat damage. Cutting off the ends will get rid of the most damaged parts of your hair.

The dark side of sun exposure

Some safe exposure to the summer sun is important to help the body make vitamin D. However, the cumulative effects of sun exposure put us at higher risk of cellular damage, early wrinkling, age spots, and skin cancer. More than 80% of the signs of skin ageing in adults are the result of the tans they had as teenagers before

the age of 18. That’s because over time, the sun’s ultraviolet light damages the fibres in the skin called elastin. When these fibres break down, the skin begins to sag, stretch and lose its ability to go back into place after stretching.

To help stop or even reverse sun damage to the skin: Use sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher.

Sunscreen is one of the keys to radiant, youthfullooking skin. Exfoliate, as the buildup of the dead, outermost skin cell layer can make skin appear blotchy and uneven. Also, remnants of self-tanning products can collect in typically dry areas (such as the elbows), causing the skin to lose its luster.

Hydrate because the summer exposure to sun, chlorine, and salt water can dry out your skin.

A moisturiser with AHA or a facial serum with hyaluronic acid can plump up dry skin around the eyes, making skin instantly appear less wrinkled.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME RID IA N EDUCAT IO N

25

Untap your potential Satisfy your curiosity, learn new skills, have fun, and boost your knowledge with adult education.

Barry Kelly fromVisit Greenwich, Margaret Chobbah, Mayor of Greenwich Norman Adams

Student Success Adult learning is a key and vital component of lifelong learning. The most important thing you can learn is what you are capable of; and it’s never too late to learn something new.

Local adult education colleges have a wide range of attractive education and training opportunities for all ages, making broadening your horizons easy.

So if you’d like to brush up on your language skills, study for a degree or learn a new hobby and make new friends, look no further. Courses include sewing and pattern cutting, art, jewellery, stained glass, photography, horticulture and floristry, massage, yoga and much more.

Finding a course in your area - There are hundreds of different types of courses out there for you to explore, just Google ‘local adult eduacation’.

Ex-Greenwich Community College student sets up healthcare business: Join the success story.

Margaret Chobbah has come a long way since September 2013, thanks to her hard work, positive approach and training and support she received from Greenwich Community College.

In September 2014, Margaret enrolled on a Diploma Level 3 in Health and Social Care. She achieved her qualification in August 2014 and was promoted to Team Leader by her employer.

In August 2015, she successfully achieved her Diploma Level 5 in Leadership & Management. She now runs her own business which provides 24 hour care for older people living in their own home. Margaret says: “I’m so glad I was part of Greenwich Community College. The tutors are helpful and devoted to students. Knowing someone believes in you makes you want to push yourself.”

Did you know that you can study for a degree at Bromley College?

Greenwich Community College, in partnership with Bromley College, offers a range of affordable professional courses and HE for adults on a flexible, part-time basis.

Bromley College University Centre (BCUC) was launched last year and offers a wide range of access courses, foundation degrees and full bachelor’s degrees, which are validated by either the University of Greenwich or Canterbury Christ Church University.

Our courses include: Foundation Degree in Events & Venues Management, Access to HE, AAT Accounting, Counselling, CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults), Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools, Hair & Beauty, Hospitality & Catering, and Health & Social Care.

Many of the degree programmes can be studied flexibly (e.g. one day per week), alongside any existing job commitments. This enables people to gain additional qualifications to acquire the skills needed move up the career ladder.

BCUC offers degree programmes at its Bromley Campus with subjects ranging from science and lawto business and accounting.

There are many reasons to consider studying for a degree at BCUC. Tuition fees are lower and going to university locally will mean real convenience for those coming back in to education.

Crucial to students’ success is the personal support on offer, with small class sizes and excellent fully qualified tutors.

It ‘s not too late to apply for a place at BCUC, on a course that will begin in September. To find out more visit: www.bromley.ac.uk/ degrees/ or call 020 8295 7000.

For more information, and to apply, visit: www.gcc.ac.uk. Alternatively, if you’d like career or course advice, please call 0208 488 4800 or drop in and see us at 95 Plumstead Road, SE18. (We’re open Monday to Friday, 9 am – 4.30 pm).

Young Education Services are on the move As of 1 September, Young Education Services will be relocating to James Wolfe School (Royal Hill Campus)Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RZ YES are very fortunate to be able to operate our centre from such a professional and child-centred environment.

This year’s summer school course will still be held at our current location above Greenwich Station.

find out more at: www.youngeducationservices.co.uk www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME RID IA N OUT & ABOUT

29

‘I’m Bored’

A recent poll found that children can say the phrase, ‘I’m Bored” up to five times a day over the summer holidays - that’s 200 times over the sixweek period! More than a third of parents said that planning summer holidays was as stressful as moving house. So to help with those summer blues we have put together few great things to do.

MON 1 – WED 31 AUG SUMMER GARDEN TRAIL A fun trail that leads you through the Hall Place Gardens with a small prize. Pick up your trail sheet from the visitor centre, 10am - 4:30 pm. £2.50 per trail. Hall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ. MON 1 – FRI 5 AUG HOLIDAY ACTIVITY ANIMAL MAGIC Get up close and personal with all the amazing animals from Animal Magic. 10am, 11:30am, 2pm & 3:30pm (1 hour session) £6 children, £4 adults.

Hall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ. MON 8 – WED 10 AUG UGLY BUG SAFARI Small game hunters wanted. Join our big hunt for some mini beasts. We’ll peer into the parterre, unearth insects near the stable block and encounter gruesome bugs near the laundry room. 11am- 5pm. £15 adults, £9 children, £39 family and £13.50 concession. Members free. Eltham Palace, Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, London SE9 5QE. www.english-heritage.org.uk/eltham.

MON - WED 8, 10, 15, 17 AUG HOLIDAY ACTIVITY FAIRY SCHOOL Calling all trainee fairies! An enchanting school, where pupils enjoy storytelling, fairy cake decorating, dancing, crafts and other magical skills.

Fairies include both girls and boys. Perfect for 3-9 year olds. 10am & 2pm (2 hours session), £10 per child, adults free. Hall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ. SUN 14 AUG FAMILY OPEN AIR THEATRE: ONCE UPON A TIME THERE WERE FOUR LITTLE RABBITS In celebration of 150 years of Beatrix Potter, meet the lady herself as she tells the tale of naughty Peter and his cousin Benjamin as they venture into Mr McGregor’s garden. A delightful retelling of this classic tale by Quantum Theatre. Bring a rug or chair to sit on. Picnics welcome. 3pm (gates open at 2:30pm). £12 adults, £10 concessions, £8 under 16s. Hall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ.

MON 15 AUG – WED 17 AUG CURTAIN UP FOR THE THEATRICAL 30S Leading men and daring divas needed for a once in a lifetime production! It’s a full house as you take to the stage 1930s style. Learn about theatre from the golden age. Break a leg! 11am-5pm. £15 adults, £9 children, £39 family and £13.50 concession.

Members free. Eltham Palace, Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, London SE9 5QE. Eltham Palace, Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, London SE9 5QE. www. english-heritage.org.uk/eltham.

TUE 16 – WED 17 AUG MYTHICAL CREATURES Here be monsters! Take a look at some of the mythical sea creatures on ancient maps and create your own creature of the deep to take home with you. Suitable for all ages. Sammy Ofer Gallery, Cutty Sark. 11:30am – 1:30pm and 2pm – 4pm.

Admission is included in Cutty Sark admission price. Cutty Sark Ship, Greenwich SE10.

TUES 18 & TUES 23 AUG MAGNETIC FISH One, two, three, four, five, once I caught a fish alive.

Create your very own magnetic fishing game to find out who can catch the most fish on board.

Suitable for all ages. For venue and times, see 16th – 17th for details. Admission prices to the Cutty Sark £13.50 adults, £7.00 children aged 5-15, £24 families (1 adult, 2 children) or £35 (2 adults and up to 2 children). £11.50 concessions.

Cutty Sark Ship, Greenwich SE10.

THURS 18 & THURS 25 AUG BAT WALKS Join us on a dusk walk through the gardens to listen to and see these nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. Bat detector supplied! Followed by tea and cake. 8pm, £10 adults, £8 under 16s. All tickets in advance. Hall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ. MON 22 – WED 24 AUG HEROES AND VILLIANS Deadly enemies and bitter battles, choose your side and start your training. Pick up your weapon to advance in the battle drill and hear astonishing tales of your favourite rogues and brave heroes.

11am-5pm. £15 adults, £9 children, £39 family and £13.50 concession. Members free. Eltham Palace, Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, London SE9 5QE. MON 29 AUG – WED 31 AUG TRAIN THE TROOPS Attention! Right you ‘orrible lot, it’s training time.

Become a Home Front hero and be put through your paces at Eltham Palace. Fall into step and polish your shoes or it’ll be basic rations for you.

Discover Eltham’s wartime past with this hands on experience of soldiers on the front line. 11am-5pm. £15 adults, £9 children, £39 family and £13.50 concession. Members free. Eltham Palace, Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, London SE9 5QE.

WEDS 3 – 31 AUG WICKED WORKSHOPS

Stretch their muscles at The Emma Nissim yoga workshop or burn off bags of energy at the zumba and hula hoop sessions. 10, 17 and 24 Aug. 11 - 11.30am and 3 - 3.30pm. Stretch their minds with Miss Libby Rose and our designer maker workshops and let them discover the satisfaction of making something themselves.

Great for family gifts that mean that little bit extra. 3, 10, 17 and 31 Aug. Jump aboard the Pink Sewing Bus and make a super cool clutch bag, a 50’s bow hair band or a zip pencil case. £5 to £7 a class. No need to book. Age 5+. www. greenwichmarketlondon.com. Greenwich Market, Greenwich SE10. www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

Maze Hill

ME RID IA N LOV E LO CAL EAT

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Family Friendly Restaurants A love of dining out needn’t wait until adulthood with child-friendly restaurants heading-up many a parent’s wish list.

A colouring-in placemat and chicken nuggets just won’t cut it any more.

Children are quite discerning eaters and restaurants need to offer good food that appeals to them.

Even a designate space for them or a crèche to keep them occupied while mum and dad finish their meal all helps to improve the dining experience for both adults and children.

Here is a sample of restaurants that go that little bit further for their younger guests.

Project Pie

Iberica

Bianco43

Children will love Project Pie UK, with more than 30 toppings to choose from and a no limit policy, diners can really set their imagination free and create their very own pizza, sweet or savoury.

‘Pizzas are then prepared before their eyes, cooked in a huge, blazing hot 600 degree oven and served in just under three minutes. It’s a fast paced, theatrical experience!’ Moreover, everything is freshly made in house - from the thin, 11-inch artisan base, to the rustic red sauce, Project Pie’s pizzas are topped with natural ingredients selected for their high quality and flavour.

Free Spanish workshops for kids while you eat.

On Saturdays and Sundays, from 1 - 4 pm there will be an ‘Ole Kids’-trained teacher in Iberica Canary Wharf to be with your children while you eat. This service is free and provided by Iberica restaruants for parents while they try the delicious tapas inspired in the most traditional Spanish dishes, cooked with only the best ingredients from a menu designed by Michelin Star Chef, Nacho Manzano. The teachers will have games, toys, arts and crafts and books ready, to keep children of all ages entertained and learning some Spanish while parents relax.

Bianco 43 has managed to create an authentic Italian restaurant with friendly Italian waiting staff and quality produce that completely immerses you in all things Italian.

www.projectpie.co.uk Project Pie, Restaurant Terrace, intu Bromley.

Maze Hill

They even have a crèche at weekend lunchtimes for young children, so parents get a little ‘me’ time and offer a kids eat free deal from Monday – Thursday (must be accompanied by an adult). www.bianco43.com.

020 8318 2700.

Bianco43, 1-3 Lee Road, Blackheath Village SE3 9RQ.

www.ibericarestaurants.com.

020 7148 1565.

Iberica, Canary Wharf, 12 Cabot Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME R IDIA N LOV E LO CAL EAT

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Buenos Aires Gin Bop Café

For one night only, gin enthusiasts will be able to enjoy an evening of fun and frivolity, great tunes and silly games, while sipping on their favourite spirit.

Expect some swinging live music from Pocket Cat and, yep! You guessed it, lots of gin.

They’ve been open in Greenwich for a year now, but still not many people know that not only do they have a large, bright and airy orangery out the back, but also that the doors open out onto to a shady secret garden beyond – one of very few places in central Greenwich that you can eat and drink, al fresco, away from street traffic.

You can sit and enjoy a glass of wine and a snack – maybe one of Buenos Aires’ delicious home-baked empanadas or pizzas, some homemade chorizo or a burger, or a plate of antipasti, complete with creamy whole buffalo mozzarellas. Why not go for the full Argentinian experience and order one of their superb steaks? They serve only beef bred on the Argentine pampas, cooked on their Josper charcoal grill for that genuine BBQ taste and served with a generous bowl of their signature hand-cut chips. www.buenosairescafe.co.uk. 0208 858 9172. @buenosairescaf BuenosAiresCafe 15 Nelson Rd, Greenwich SE10 9JB.

ZEYTIN

£7 will buy you one of Rivington’s delicious burgers (the signature meaty one and the veggie with mushrooms, cheese and tomatoes are both on offer). A number of prestigious gin brands will each create their own unique take on the classic G&T, as well as present two inventive and tempting gin-based cocktails. Needless to say, you probably shouldn’t make any plans for the next morning... you’ll most definitely be sleeping in!

On 19 August, Gin Bop runs from 6pm until late. Early bird tickets, available via the Rivington website: www.rivingtongreenwich.co.uk, will include a £7 cocktail. Entrance and a cocktail on the day: £10 Rivington Grill Greenwich, 178 Greenwich High Road, Greenwich SE10 8NN Guest gin brands include Plymouth, Hendrick’s, Whitley Neill, Sipsmith, Langley’s No.8 and Bathtub

WIN

DINNER FOR TWO

Experience authentic Turkish food at the Zeytin Restaurant in Greenwich. This new restaurant has an excellent menu that includes many traditional dishes and old favourites, and popular sharing platters.

One luckly winner has the opportunity to win a two course dinner (cooked exclusively by our head chef) for two with wine. To enter, go to: www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/win, or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to: win@meridian-magazine.co.uk or send a postcard with your details to: Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

Latin Nights at the Hill With a taste of authentic Latin America food

Ceviche

On a hot evening, the garden of the Hill restaurant in Greenwich certainly had the Latin American feel. A welcome cool breeze blew in as we took our seats near the stunning mural that depicts the Andean skyline and distinct Calla lillies, painted last summer by a well known Ecuadorian artist. The vibrant colours are still as bright as the day they were painted. This is Latin Night, a new iniative by the Ecadorian partners/chefs to showcase popular dishes from their homeland.

The evening starts with a cooling cocktail, a Pisco sour and a Caipirinha appeared with a flourish. A Pisco sour is a cocktail typical of South American cuisine. Pisco is a colorless brandy produced in winemaking regions of Chile and Peru. Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail, made with Cachaça, sugar and lime. Cachaça, also known as Pinga or Caninha, is Brazil’s most common distilled alcoholic beverage.

These new tastes start you on an Odyssey of difference; having not really tried authentic foods from this region this was going to be a totally new dining experience.

A bowl of fried plantain arrived with a mild red chilli sauce while we studied the comprehensive menu, which explains each dish on offer.

We opted to try both fish based starters, the Sopa Marinera and Peruvian ceviche. The presentation is fabulous; the chefs obviously pay attention to detail. Sopa is an Ecuadorian

seafood soup, with big prawns, baby squid, clams and green plantain. Ceviche arrived in a cocktail glass and is made from diced Haddock marinated lime juice and served with thin slivers of red onion, mild chilli and coriander. Served chilled with a sweet potato puree it’s very refreshing and perfect in this weather.

For our main course, Fritata de Chancho, a traditional Ecuadorian dish. The pork has been cooked with orange juice, onion garlic and cumin, until all the liquid is gone and the pork brown in the’mapahuira’ or mix of its own juices and flavours. Served with potato and cheese croquettes and a large-kernelled sweetcorn, that we had never seen before. The friendly manager, Miguel is more than happy to explain the dishes and their provenance. Be ready, there is quite a lot to eat!

Before dessert we take a while just to sit and relax, the newly refurbished garden is the perfect place to just sit and chill out, with the addition of Latin music from a local guitarist, we’re definitely getting the Latin vibe.

Back to the menu, with a choice of three desserts it should be easy, but no, they all sound delicious. We go for for Espumilla, the menu describes this as a popular street food resembling ice cream this guava meringue cream dessert is light and refreshing. The Torta de tres leches or three milks cake is moist

and topped with a traditional Latin frosting.

We begrudgingly share each dish before they rapidly disappeared.

All in all, an entertaining evening, the food is truly authentic with the all fresh ingredients sourced locally where they can and others imported, so that you really do get a taste of Latin American. Take a group of friends or family and enjoy this unique experience.

The next Latin Night is on the 9 August. www.thehillgreenwich.com 020 8691 3626 89 Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8SE.

M E R IDIA N OUT AND ABOU T

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Royal adventures at Eltham Palace this summer Families looking for an adventurous summer need look no further than English Heritage’s Eltham Palace and Gardens in Greenwich, London.

visitors can shine in the limelight as they take to the stage 1930s style and discover theatre from the great golden age.

Visitors throughout the summer can explore this fascinating 1930s showpiece, with its unique combination of a medieval great hall and beautiful gardens. There are plenty of rooms to discover including: Virginia Courtauld’s walk-in wardrobe, featuring glamorous costumes to try on; a luxury wartime bunker; and you may even spot the Courtauld’s pet lemur, Mah-Jongg!

New for 2016, children need to choose their side and start their training at Heroes and Villains, which takes place from Monday 22 – Wednesday 24 August. Summer is then rounded off with Train the Troops on Monday 29 – Wednesday 31 August, where little ones can to train to become a home-front hero and get hands-on discovering Eltham Palace’s secret wartime past.

English Heritage will also host a spectacular programme of summer events at Eltham Palace which will keep the whole family entertained throughout the school holidays. Every week during the summer break there will be different events for children of all ages to enjoy.

Families can also enjoy the café with seasonal produce, browse a range of gifts in the shop, and, most importantly, let the children loose in the travel themed playground!

Children will love the summer adventures planned, in particular, the popular Ugly Bug Safari on Monday 8 - Wednesday 10 August; an event which gives kids the opportunity to grab magnifying glasses and join the big hunt for some mini beasts and discover a bug’s life.

Curtains rise for mini leading men and daring divas at Curtain up for the Theatrical 30s on Monday 15 – Wednesday 17 August, during which young

Meanwhile, for visitors looking to relax and unwind in the beautiful surroundings of Eltham Palace’s landscaped gardens, Lazy Jazz Sundays will return to the property this summer, every Sunday until 21 August.

Looking ahead to next month, Eltham Palace will host a stunning Art Deco Fair on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September. Visitors can surround themselves with art deco decadence and sample the splendour of the thrilling thirties at this darling event. With an abundance of vintage stalls to

Ugly Bug Safari satisfy the most ardent shopper, visitors can sit back and relax as they embark on an opulent journey into Eltham Palace’s glittering past.

For more information about any of the events taking place at Eltham Palace this summer, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/eltham. You can also find Eltham Palace and Gardens on Facebook.

WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N TANGOWORKOUT ONGOING ART, DRAMA, MUSIC, COURSES Classes connecting Tango with health and well being, One-to-one instrumental & vocal tuition for all age groups, plus a range of courses.

The Conservatoire, Lee Road Blackheath, SE3. Info: 020 8852 0234 or info@conservatoire.org.uk

for men and women. 7.15pm - 9.15pm. Beginners and intermediate classes. £7. West Greenwich Community Centre, 141 Greenwich High Road, SE10 8JA.

BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY

Meeting weekly to carry out wildlife gardening tasks to bring back some of the site’s heritage, and transform the space for the benefit of wildlife and the local community. www.tcv.org.uk. Free. 11am-2pm. 07740 899 689.

College Green & Slip, West Street, Bromley, BR1 1PA.

Stimulating lectures and intriguing outings. Fourth Thursday of the month except Aug and Dec. 2.30pm. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk St Mary’s Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackeath SE3.

GREENWICH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

BY JAMES HADDRELL, ARTISTIC & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GREENWICH THEATRE How many people have heard of Lucy Barfield? Undoubtedly many, many people have held a book dedicated to Lucy in their hands, but few of us read those extra bits of information in a book, and even less remember them. I was one of those people, so when I recently met with fledgling company ‘How Small How Far’ to discuss their latest production it was a moment of discovery for me.

Lucy Barfield, it transpired, was the god-child of C S Lewis, and the person to whom The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe was dedicated. The story of the fictional Lucy Pevensie’s journey through the wardrobe to Narnia was written for her. Now another Lucy, the writer and performer Lucy Grace, has embarked on a search to uncover her story as the subject of her new show. The resulting production shows the three intertwined worlds, of a girl discovering a snow-covered world of magic and adventure, a young woman stopped from dancing by illness, and a writer searching for any kind of mark left on the world by the little known muse of an internationally successful writer.

Realising the time that separated his decision to write the book from its eventual publication, Lewis’ dedication includes the words, “you are already too old for fairy tales, and by the time it is printed and bound you will be older still. But some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.” It may be that people fall in and out of love with fairy tales, but in the age of Harry Potter, the boy magician who has travelled from the pages of JK Rowling’s novels to the big screen and now to the stage in the West End, it feels as though we are part of a whole generation that has started reading fairy tales again.

However the magic in this new show, Lucy, Lucy & Lucy Barfield, comes from an unexpected place. Rather than stories of the lion Aslan and his battle with the White Witch, it is the moments of archive material or the recorded interviews with those who knew Lucy Barfield that ‘How Small How Far’ has worked into the show that feel magical – not the discovery of a fictional world but the uncovering of a forgotten one, the world of the young woman who inspired CS Lewis to create the land of Narnia for all of us.

Lucy, Lucy & Lucy Barfield plays at Greenwich Theatre on 3 & 4 September Box Office 020 8858 7755 www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk

Monthly lectures at King William Court, Room 315, University of Greenwich, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10. 8pm on 2nd Monday of the month, except April & August. Refreshments from 7.15pm.

020 8852 7873 or www.gdfas.org

EVERY MON ROTARY CLUB OF LEWISHAM & PENGE

BROMLEY GREEN GYM

CHARLTON JUDO CLUB

Judo training sessions for anyone aged 10 years and over. If you do not have a judo suit wear baggy t-shirt and old jog bottoms. From beginners upwards.

8.15-9.30pm. £3 per session. Call Lorraine on 07932767385 or email lollyjudo1975@aol.com.

NCCA Community Hall, 217 Maryon Road, Charlton SE7 8DB.

EVERY SAT HORNIMAN FARMERS’ MARKET

A locally sourced, locally sold farmers’ market selling vegetables, meat, bread, flowers, hot food and much Local businessmen and women giving help locally, more in the glorious gardens. The Horniman Museum national and internationally. We meet at 7pm for a Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE 23. dinner, with speakers on a variety of subjects. Contact Peter Earl on 020 8303 3361 or Alan Davis 020 8467 EVERY 2ND SAT 2032. Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley.

WOOLWICH SINGERS

A community choir. No audition required to join. The aim is to sing together and have fun! £2 per week, refreshments provided. 6.30pm-8pm. Call 07812 477 775 Public Hall, Wellington St, Woolwich SE18 6PW (entrance via Town Hall).

EVERY TUES LADIES BELLY DANCE GROUP

Fun and gentle exercise with well known dancer and performer Maria Louisa. Ladies of all ages, shapes and sizes are invited to join! Call Age Exchange for info on 07802 521210. 11.45am.The Bakehouse Theatre, 11 Blackheath Village SE3 9LA.

EVERY THURS ROTARY CLUB OF GREENWICH

For like-minded business people to meet & help the community. If visiting please contact Sarah Campbell 07958527877 Old Colfeans Rugby Football Club, Horn Park, Eltham Road SE9 8UE.

BLACKHEATH BOWLING CLUB

Bowls is a great way of getting some fresh air and light exercise and making new friends. Small, friendly afternoon club looking for new members, experienced or not. For more info call Club Capt. David Kilburn on 020 8857 2471. 2.30pm. Near Rangers House, Blackheath.

EVERY FRI LUNCHTIME CONCERT

1pm – 2pm. Free. www.charlton-house.org 020 8856 3951. Charlton House, Charlton Rd; SE7

BOOK SALE

Friends of Age Exchange. www.friends-of-age-exchange.org.uk. 10am-4pm. Bakehouse Bookshop, Blackheath Village SE3 9LA.

EVERY SUN CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SOCIETY

Blackheath. Services and Sunday School held at the Clarendon Hotel, Blackheath at 11am. Also at the Clarendon Hotel, our monthly Testimony Meeting is held every second Wednesday of the month at 8pm.

BLACKHEATH QUAKERS

Meeting for worship. 10.30am-11.30am every Sunday. Visitors welcome. For more details, including room hire on 07908 587 695 or email quakerhall@aol.com. Quaker Meeting House, Lawn Terrace, Blackheath SE3 9LL.

UNTIL MON 29 AUG ABOVE AND BEYOND

The ultimate, family friendly interactive flight exhibition created in association with Boeing and in collaboration with NASA, hopes to inspire the next wave of engineers, pilots and astronauts. 10am-5pm. Adult £9, Child £6. For further details visit www.rmg.co.uk.

National Maritime Museum, Greenwich SE10.

UNTIL WED 31 AUGUST MUHAMMAD ALI EXHIBITION AT THE O2

‘I am the Greatest’ exhibition showcasing the extraordinary life and career of the world’s most famous heavyweight boxer, Muhammad Ali. Adult £18, Child £9.00, Family £36.00 plus booking fee Concession £15.00 plus booking fee. The O2, Peninsula Square, Greenwich SE10 0DX.

E:MAIL events@meridian-magazine.co.uk

UNTIL SUN 4 SEPT HOW DOES MY GARDEN GROW?

A Garden Museum exhibition in partnership with Bexley Heritage Trust, which celebrates gardeners and, through some 400 objects, tells their story thoughtout the 20th century. The exhibition looks at the evolution of gardening through tools, letters, journals, furniture, paintings photographs and trophies. 10am-5pm. £10, £8 under 16s/concs, £30 family. 01322 526 574.

Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ.

TUES 2, 9 & 16 AUG LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION

Celebrate the very best of British filmmaking with a mini season of classic, old and new. Bring a picnic, sip a cocktail and enjoy the movies in a beautiful open air setting. 2 Aug – Mary Poppins (1964) U, 9 Aug – Johnny English (2003) PG & 16 Aug Oliver!

(1968) U. 12.30pm. Free. Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf E14.

SUMMER BOUQUET MASTERCLASS WEDNESDAY 10 AUGUST.

TUES 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 AUG LEARN TO DANCE WITH CEROC

Using seasonal British blooms and mixed foliage, the summer session aims to teach pupils the skills required to make the perfect hand-tied bouquet. Throughout the session Joanne will guide pupils through the step-by-step process of floral design, from tips on how to condition your flowers, to selecting and arranging the perfect composition right down to the best ways to beautifully package your bouquet.

Tickets are priced at £60 and include all the flowers you’ll need plus a glass of seasonal Pimms.

Sessions are limited to 8 pupils.

To purchase tickets contact hello@joannetruby.co.uk 7.00-9.30pm.

The Trafalger Tavern, Greenwich.

READER

Beginners class 8pm and freestyle from 9.30pm. £9 ( £2 membership). No need to book. www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road Chislehurst BR7 6HF.

Offer

WED 3 AUG LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION

Celebrate the very best of British filmmaking with a mini season of classic, old and new. Bring a picnic, sip a cocktail and enjoy the movies in a beautiful open air setting. 3 Aug – Chariots of Fire (1981) A. 6.30pm.

Free. Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf E14.

WED 3 & 17 AUG CONTEMPORARY CIRCUS FAMILY FUN

Have a go at acrobatics with Upswing…if you dare.

The roaming theatre company will show you and share how they blend circus and theatre together in a wonderful jumble that’ll have you gasping. If you’d rather sit back, you can do that too. Greenwich Peninsula, Greenwich, London SE10 0SQ. For more info visit http://greenwichpeninsula.co.uk/ on-the-peninsula/have-a-go-at-circuitry/

THURS 4 AUGUST FLEETWOOD BAC PLAY RUMOURS

Leading wedding and event florist Joanne Truby Floral Design has announced the launch of its Floral Masterclass sessions – an opportunity for budding florists and floral enthusiasts to learn hands-on skills in floral design.

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The original Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band who are endorsed by Mick Fleetwood himself. The best of “Rumours” – still one of the best selling rock albums of all time, including: The Chain/Dreams/ Don’t Stop/ Go Your Own Way. 7.30-11pm. £10 in advance/£12 on the Door. www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road Chislehurst BR7 6HF.

VISIT THE VICTORIAN SKITTLE ALLEY

The old infirmary was transformed into a skittle alley in 1864 and was intended to relieve the boredom of the naval pensioners. Hidden underneath the grand buildings of the ORNC, you’ll have the opportunity for a game using wooden practice cannonballs! Also on 7, 9,11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 28 Aug & 1 Sept.

Free.11.30am-2.30pm (on a first come first served basis). The Skittle Alley, Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9JF.

THURS 4 AUG – 1 SEP LUNCHTIME RECITAL

Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Visit trinitylaban.ac.uk/whatson for details. 1.05pm.

Free. St. Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ

FRI 5, 12 & 26 AUG BEAVERWOOD CLUB NIGHT

DJ Dave Collins will be playing the best Chart Club - Soul - RnB and so much more 8pm-1am (no admission after 10.00 pm). £8members /£10 non-members. 30+, smart dress code. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.

SUCH A PERFECT DAY FOR A CONCERT Glorious sunshine, picnic ready and a gentle stroll from the well-organised car park to the grounds of the stunning 900 year old castle for this year’s Leeds Castle Classical Concert.

An open air, ‘Night of the Proms’ style concert, with all the pomp and Union Jack flagwaving you would expect.

Those that had been before, arrived early and set up their picnics or collected the preordered Carluccio’s hamper.

To the sound of popping corks, the concert got underway with the winners of the Top Choir Kent competition The Kentones, followed by The P&O Ferries Choir returning for a second year with another moving performance. Introduced by Aled Jones MBE, who was an instant success as host of the event for his first time.

The Definitive Rat Pack brought not only their showbiz magic to the stage with Classic songs from the 60s, ending with the now anthem of ‘My Way’.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra delivered a rousing programme conducted by John Rigby, featuring many popular classics, along with John

SAT 6 & SUN 7 AUG PAWS AT THE CASTLE

A weekend dedicated to our canine friends with demonstrations, displays and entertainment. Enter your pooch in a fun dog show with rosettes for the winners in each category. The event will include displays and entertainment from a variety of dogs, including guide dog puppies, Labrador rescue, and Newfoundland dogs in action. Dogs welcome on leads. Adult £13.90, Sen £12.40, Child (5-15) £8.80, under 5 Free. Family ticket £38.10. Gardens Only on entry. www.hevercastle.co.uk. Hever Castle & Garde,Hever, Edenbridge Kent TN8 7NG.

Williams’ iconic film themes Star Wars and ET. Sensational soloist, Frances McCafferty returned to the stage after 12 years, while Tenor, Anthony Flaum wowed the audience with a tear-jerking rendition of the classic Nessun Dorma.

The second half was opened in spectacular style as a 1940s Spitfire took to the skies, performing to the Spitfire Prelude and the Dambusters March against the backdrop of a glorious sunset.

The audience sang along to ‘Land of Hope & Glory’, joined in a waltz with junior ballroom dance champions, Max and Katie, and we all jumped as the canons were fired for the 1812 Overture, the evening drew to a close with a spectacular firework finale, lighting up the beautiful Leeds Castle.

Exclusive 2017 Offer!

Book early for the Leeds Castle Classical Concert 2017 (8 July 2017) and pay only £32 picnic or £43 seated.

The offer is available until 31 August using early bird code: LC2017 www.leedscastleconcert.co.uk

SUN 7, 14, 21 AUG & 2 SEPT LAZY SUNDAYS

Enjoy jazz music in stunning surroundings, whether you’re picnicking with friends, or taking a summertime stroll, you’ll be transported back in time. www. english-heritage.org.uk/eltham. 12noon-4pm. Adult £15, Child 5-15 yrs £9, Concs £13.50 & Family £39. Eltham Palace and Gardens, Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich SE9 5QE.

SUN 7, 14, 21 & 28 AUG BANDSTAND CONCERTS

The Friends of the Park are staging a full programme of afternoon concerts at Greenwich Park bandstand.

Visit www.friendsofgreenwichpark.org.uk for details.

3pm. Free. Greenwich Park.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

WH AT TO DO W HERE & W HE N THU 11 AUG CHARITY TOY & TRAIN FAIR

Association of Bexley Charities ’78 annual fair with new and pre-enjoyed model railsways (Hornby, Bachmann, Dapol, Farish, Fleishmann) and spare parts; books; and lots more. Refreshments. £1.

6-9pm. Falconwood Community Centre, The Green, Welling, Kent DA16 2PG.

FRI 12 AUG MUSIC IN THE MARKET

This month the local choir, at The Blackheath Centre, are singing to raise the (new) roof. Toe tapping stuff and an uplifting start to the weekend. Takes place every second Friday of the month. Free. 7.30pm.

Greenwich Market, Greenwich SE10 9HZ.

UNLOCKED TOURS & COCKTAILS

THE CROSSNESS ENGINES

The Crossness Pumping Station is a former sewage pumping station designed by the Metropolitan Board of Works’s Chief Engineer Sir Joseph Bazalgette and architect Charles Henry Driver. Prince Consort Static. Visitors are advised to wear trousers and flat shoes.10.30-5pm. Last entry 4pm. Adults £12, Children 5-16 yrs £2 & under 5s Free. www. crossness.org.uk. The Crossness Engine Trust, Crossness STW, Bazalgette Way, Abbey Wood, SE2 9AQ.

THU 18 AUG CUBAN NIGHTS @ LOCALE

Four-course Cuban dinner dance with band. £45 per head. Bookings on 0208 852 0700. Locale Restaurant, 1 Lawn Terrace, Blackheath Village SE3 9LJ

FRI 19 AUG BLACKHEATH FLOWER CLUB

Join Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich and enjoy an evening of behind-the-scenes tours and cocktails.

This is a chance to explore the buildings in the College after opening hours and see hidden space not open to the public. Accompanied by guides. £30. 6.308.30pm. Book in advance on www.ornc.org/events/ unlocked. Meet outside Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk, Greenwich, London SE10 9NN. Admissions: £30.

Fun with flowers. Eleanor Bracken – TBA. 2-4pm. £5.

Mycenae House, Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE.

SAT 13 AUG FARMERS MARKET

SAT 20 AUG MEET NICHOLAS HAWKSMOOR

Quality locally sourced artisan food for residents and visitors to buy on the day. Traders range from bakers, greengrocers, cheesemongers, florists, fresh fruit with many more. Major Draper St, Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18 6GD (Indoor), No.1 Street, Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18 6FB (Outdoor).

THE LONDON RAT RACE

Groups of Londoners will not only run but jump, swim, kayak and climb the distance and all for a good cause - Shelter. The acquatic obstacle course starts inside the ExCel centre, with participants facing a quick fire barrage of obstacles before they head out on to the dockside. From there, there’s a short run west towards the Emirates Air Line before they have to plunge into the Royal Victoria Dock for a swim to the finishing line. Spectators from 12noon. ExCel London, Custom House.

MIRANDA SINGS LIVE

Colleen Ballinger-Evans is the brains and personality behind global YouTube sensation Miranda Sings with more than 10 million devoted subscribers. 7pm.From £54.99 at www.tickets.axs.com. Indigo at the O2, Greenwich Peninsula, North Greenwich.

Meet British architect Nicholas Hawksmoor, a leading figure of the English Baroque style of architecture in the late-seventeenth and early-eighteenth century.

Discover how he designed the ORNC along with Sir Christopher Wren. Free. Performances take place in the Painted Hall at 12noon, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm.

Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk , Greenwich SE10 9JF.

THU 25 AUG BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY No meeting today for our summer break. Regular Meridian readers should watch this space next month for news of our superb series of lectures planned for autumn at St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackheath SE3. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk.

DRAW ABOARD: ART MACABRE AT CUTTY SARK FRI 26 AUG Join Art Macabre for an evening of theatrical life drawing THE CROSSNESS ENGINES fun. Explore Cutty Sark’s nautical adventures through sketch events, live performances, drawing games and more. All levels of drawing experience welcome. 7pm. £25 for adults (includes a shot of whiskey). Ages 18+.

Cutty Sark Ship, Greenwich SE10 5JL.

SUN 14 AUG GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB A 5 ½ mile circular walk on the North Downs taking in Farthing Downs and Happy Valley with a visit to an 11th century Church. Meet 10.20am at London Bridge Station Main Concourse near Nero Express for the 10.34 train to Coulsdon South.. Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details. New members welcome.

The Crossness Pumping Station - CET Guided tours – Prince Consort Static. Visitors are advised to wear trousers and flat shoes.10.30-5pm. Last entry 4pm.

Adults only, £12. Must be booked in advance on www.evenybrite.co.uk. Tea & biscuits included. www. crossness.org.uk. The Crossness Engine Trust, Crossness STW, Bazalgette Way, Abbey Wood, SE2 9AQ.

FRI 26 – SUN 28 AUG POP UP SCREENS

There will be popcorn, burgers and of course a fully stock bar…People are welcome to bring their own drinks and snacks too. Fri – Breakfast Club, Sat – Dirty Dancing & Sun – Back to the Future. www. popupscreens.co.uk. Adult £12 & Child £6. 7pm.

Manor House Gardens, Hither Green.

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SAT 27 AUG FARMERS MARKET

THURS 1 – FRI 30 SEPT TOTALLY THAMES

SUN 28 AUG GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB

The Thames is brought to life throughout the month with an exciting season of arts, cultural and river events that span the 42-mile stretch of the river. www. totallythames.org

See 13 AUG for details. Major Draper St, Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18 6GD (Indoor), No.1 Street, Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18 6FB (Outdoor).

A 7-mile circular walk starting from Ashford Station.

Meet at 11am Ashford Station, trains from Orpington via Sevenoaks or Stratford/St Pancreas. Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details. New members welcome.

MON 29 AUG TWISTED CARNIVAL PARTY

For one night only, Indigo at the O2 will be transformed in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Europe’s biggest street festival: The Notting Hill Carnival. Expect a unique blend of the Caribbean and the UK with Reggae, Dancehall to Hip Hop and Garage! 10pm. Tickets from www.tickets.axs.com. Indigo at the O2, Greenwich Peninsula, North Greenwich.

Returning to grace the banks of the River Thames, Totally Thames festival celebrates its famous waterway with a 30-day programme of river-inspired events.

SUN 4 SEP THE COLOUR RUN

The ‘Colour Run’ presented by Skittles is a global sensation and once again they’re taking the Happiest 5k on the planet to the O2. Grab your whitest T-shirt and get covered with paint for charity. This event is epic and not to be missed.

Book tickets on http://thecolorrun.co.uk/ london02. Solo colour runner is £26, Team colour runner is £24 and a Little colour runner is £10. Free for spectators. Greenwich Peninsula, Greenwich, London SE10.

ART LISTINGS MON 8 – SUN 21 AUG GREENWICH LIP ANNUALE

The 9th Greenwich Annuale of the Greenwich group of London Independent Photography will be showing their work. Monday to Friday 9:00-5:30, weekends 12noon-4pm. Free. Opening view 11 Aug 6.308.30pm, all comers welcome.

Critics evening 18 Aug, 7-9pm, with discussion of works on the walls, all comers welcome. 020 8465 5968. The Greenwich Gallery, Linear House, Peyton Place, Greenwich SE10 8RS.

UNTIL FRI 26 AUG THE GAMES EUROPE PLAYS – BODYTECH Exploring our body from its hidden micro bacteria to its digital incarnations, The Games Europe Plays – BODYTECH takes a playful look at how digital technologies are helping us to heal but can also disturb our well being. Tuesday-Friday: 11am-5pm, Saturday: 11am-4pm. 020 8331 9954. The Stephen Lawrence Gallery, University of Greenwich, 10 Stockwell Street, SE10 9BD.

TUES 23 AUG – MON 5 SEPT CONTOURS

Ann and Wayne Foskett exhib their most recent work.

Tuesday to Sunday plus Bank Holidays from 11am to 5.30pm. Made in Greenwich, 324 Creek Road, Greenwich, SE10 9SW.

UNTIL SUN 11 SEPT GREENWICH PRINTMAKERS

Featured artist. Until 21 Aug - Barbara Zalecki. 23 Aug – 11 Sept – Jacki Baxter. Tues – Sun, 10am5.30pm. www.greenwichprintmakers.co.uk. 020 8858 1569. Greenwich printmakers Gallery, 1A The Market, Greenwich SE10 9HZ.

GRAHAM DAVIES SAT 10 - SAT 17 SEPT I have always thought that painting would be a part of my life from an early age. I was extremely lucky working in a job that allowed me the time to go out and sketch as well as paint.

In 2011, I joined the Wapping Group of Artists and with the help and advice of the group members I improved my plein air painting skills. Learning to be prepared for all weathers and to have sharp reactions, as things can change so quickly, you really have to be focused.

I’ve a special affection for London and its scenery, but above all, it is the river Thames that attracts me the most. It’s the light and dark of the sky and water, the people and boats, that makes it such a magical place.

I will always paint because it enables me to escape the daily toil, bringing to life special places and making permanent, often-transient memories.

Capital Art Gallery 13 Well Hall Parade Eltham London SE9 6SP www.grahamdaviesartist.co.uk

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When the Opportunity Arises Earlier this year, I visited the Art Hub Gallery at Deptford for the launch of their 4th annual charity postcard show, ‘Keep Me Posted’, sponsored by Waitrose.

Invited by Deborah and Adrian Morris-Thomas, directors of Art Hub Studios CIC, to find out about a new project on the Woolwich site, I popped along.

Having never visited the Westminster Industrial Estate before, I was in for a surprise. The estate is tucked away off the Woolwich Road and near the Thames Barrier, in an area which is unusually green and quiet for its location: the perfect place for an artist studio.

On a tour of the studios I asked Deborah what her background was?

I studied Art and Education at Goldsmiths University and taught Art at Sedgehill Comprehensive School for five years before meeting Adrian, an artist and screen printer.

We married and moved to Charlton and have a daughter who is now studying graphics at Kingston University.

How did the business start?

We began our commercial life (as picture framers founding Framework Picture Framing) in 1988 at

Creekside in Deptford and moved into our current site (6500sq ft. of workshop space with six employees) in the same road in 1999, building up a successful framing business with bespoke work for many well-known institutions and celebs.

How did you move from picture framing to the current business?

We built up a large network of arts contacts through the picture framing and in 2006 we inherited equipment from various local universities and colleges who, due to the onset of digital technology, no longer had use for traditional printmaking or ceramic facilities and needed rescuing from the threat of being skipped. This was our cue to change the dynamic of how we would continue our business.

You had all this equipment, what happened next?

Living in Charlton meant that The Westminster Industrial Estate was local and had large industrial spaces in an old Siemens Factory that were ideal for our use. We took a lease on 6500 sq. ft. and fitted out the space to allow for 20 individual artist studio spaces and a large communal print area.

Three years later, we took another floor of 5000 sq. ft. to create more studio spaces and a communal area for a ceramic and a carpentry workshop where we continue to run our framing business.

Across our three sites we currently have over 100 members, plus a gallery programme at our Creekside site and our annual shows include: Deptford X Festival, charity postcard show that has raised over £13000 for local charities over 4 years, The Print Open, Summer Design Fair and the Xmas Design Fair.

Do you offer any courses to the community?

We pioneer an Art Hub outreach programme for schools and colleges, which allows our members to help with running art classes and workshops.

We currently have art teachers at Kidbrooke Park Primary School and have run workshops for several local secondary schools, too.

So, what is the new project that you have underway?

With all of the above under our belt we are now going to expand. Our new floor will be next door to our existing print studios overlooking the Thames Barrier, with north facing views over the Thames.

We will have spaces from 60 sq. ft. up to 800 sq. ft., to cater for creatives. Starting from £90 per month upwards. We are planning open days at the end of August.

For more information about studio availability and viewings visit www.arthub.org.uk Valerie Breese

How many members do you have?

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