Meridian Magazine January 2015 by Meridian Magazine

Meridian January 2015 ÂŁ1.00 Where Sold

60 is the new 40

Your Local What, Where and When Magazine

Fitness, Health & Beauty

Future proofing your life ahead

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HELLO Congratulations! You made it through Christmas. We hope yours was a bright and merry one. Now, it’s time to look forward to 2015 - the year of the goat, the general election and lots of exciting things happening locally, which you can keep up-to-date with, right here, in these pages. Our four-page HEALTH AND BEAUTY special has to be mentioned first. As much as the thought pains us, we’ve got to put down the cheeseboard and rediscover our energetic side. We introduce Meridian’s local fitness guide, as we discover some of SE London’s best clubs and fitness centres. From boot camps to boxing circuits, yoga to the power hoop, you won’t be short of ideas for new ways of fighting the festive bulge. It’s not just us, but our homes which feel the void of the festive season. January is a dull, dark month and once the decorations come down, the house can look dreary, cold and uninviting. In Interiors, we hear from the experts on how to inject light and life back into the home with clever tricks or even a simple pot of paint. In FOOD AND DRINK, we’ve already moved on and started to think about Valentine’s Day, with a list of love’s greatest food. From chilies to asparagus, almonds to avocado; make your date go with some va-va-voom as we play culinary cupid.

And for the times when clothes are better on…. Looking good when it’s freezing is a niche wardrobe art. In FASHION this month, we look at the Winter Warmers which will battle the cold and keep you looking your best. In LIFESTYLE, we dedicate this month to the not so senior citizens with a look at how today’s over 60s are making new rules about aging. Make sure you read about the new plans for London City Cruise Port, our business and property update, the latest local and education & parenting news, and the most comprehensive listings guide in SE London; plus much, much more. A big thank you to our readers and advertisers for all your support throughout 2014; let’s make this year bigger and better!

Wishing you all a very happy New Year The Meridian Team xxx

INSIDE THIS ISSUE....

WELCOME IN P20-25

EAT OUT P39

EAT IN P41

60 IS THE NEW 40 P26-27

WINTER WARMERS P31

WHAT TO DO P42

Meridian MAGAZINE

JA N UA RY 2 0 1 5 Publisher: Joy Johnston Editor: Valerie Breese Art & Production Director: Paul McPherson Display Sales: Cheryl Voller Emma Forbes Laurie Monshall Classified Sales: Laurie Monshall Contributors: Claire Allen James Haddrell Nicola Berry Michael Breese Accounts: Janet Franklin Dawn Maguire 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

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MeridianmagLDN Meridian Magazine is for you, published monthly and distributed to selected residential properties and businesses within the borough of Greenwich and in Blackheath, Westcombe Park, Charlton, Eltham, Lee, Docklands, Canary Wharf, Bromley, Chislehurst, New Eltham, Hither Green and Kidbrooke. 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.

M E RID IA N

HAVE YOU HEARD? Cutting Edge

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is one of ten places in the UK where a cutting-edge new technology network is being rolled out, which provides a cost-effective way of connecting objects to the internet. The so-called Internet of Things technology is about connecting objects to the internet, and it allows these objects to be monitored and linked to other objects. This technology can help cities and businesses to improve services, to reduce costs, and to use technology to help people and places. In more simple terms, it is technology which, for example, connects street lighting systems or security systems to the web so they can be controlled automatically and remotely. A further example might be to connect pipes that are installed underground to be monitored for leakages or for wear and tear for maintenance purposes. The ‘machine-tomachine’ technology can be applied to a vast range of things, all of which are aimed at making life better and easier.

Your Vote

Driverless for Greenwich

Greenwich has been choosen as one of the four English locations to test driverless cars, the other chosen locations are Bristol, Coventry and Milton Keynes. The decision was announced by the quango Innovate UK, after George Osborne’s Autumn Statement. The chancellor also announced an additional £9m in funding for the work, adding to the £10m that had been announced last July. The businesses involved will add further funds. Greenwich is set to run the Gateway scheme. This will be led by the Transport Research Laboratory consultancy and also involves General Motors, and the AA and RAC motoring associations. It plans to carry out tests of automated passenger shuttle vehicles as well as autonomous valet parking for adapted cars. In addition, a self-drive car simulator will make use of a photorealistic 3D model of the area to study how people react to sharing the driving of a vehicle with its computer.

You could become a Dementia Friend – it’s easy! Over 4000 people in Bromley live with dementia and improving the care and experience of those with the condition is a key priority for the Council.

Vote on the final two names for the wards in Eltham Community Hospital. The judges have created a shortlist of names that reflect the best of Eltham, names that reflect the Eltham community or names that show a connection with Eltham’s past or future, and names that are for a hospital setting. The voting process is open until 19 January. Anyone who is resident in the Royal Borough of Greenwich can vote on names of the two new wards. Please click on this link and cast your vote - https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Elthamhospital In addition to the online vote, visitors to Eltham centre have been able to vote and there are also ballot boxes at Eltham Palace Surgery and Eltham Medical Practice, the two practices moving into ECH. Prizes will be awarded to the six winning entries. If any of the two winning ward names have been suggested by multiple entrants, the entrants’ names will go into a draw.

A national campaign was run through December by the Alzheimer’s Society and Public Health England to encourage people to become Dementia Friends and find out how it affects people and the little things we can all do to help those living with the disease. Councillor Fortune, Chairman of the Health and Wellbeing Board, said “We are delighted to support this national campaign. As a Council we fund and work closely with those in the field and improving the care and experience of those living with dementia is a key priority. Dementia Friends is about learning a little bit more about the condition and turning that understanding into action.” If you are interested in becoming a Dementia Friend go to the Dementia Friends website, www.dementiafriends.org.uk. You can watch a short video and register for a free pack of information. www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME R IDIA N INT ERIO RS

The Importance of Light January is a dull, dark month. Once the festive decorations have been taken down, the house can look dreary, cold and uninviting, combined with the seasonal bad weather, it can all be rather bleak. Lets lift the mood and add some light. Hallways come in all shapes and sizes, the key is to create space and light. The space needs to be useful but tastefully decorated to ensure that this first impression is a good one. Size doesn’t matter, it’s how you use it. Like features of a face, windows and doors make a huge difference to the way a house looks. You can transform a house from dull to attractive, dilapidated to smart, simply by replacing badly designed, poorly maintained doors and windows. Stained glass panels can add light and decoration to a period home. There’s little doubt that new doors and windows add value to a house and save on fuel cost, too. The government goals of basic energy efficiency measures for all older homes by 2015, and zero-carbon new homes by 2016 may not be met but it is in our own interest to cut the heat loss, and have more energy efficient homes. Glazing within doors should be sealed as tightly as it is in windows, and all new doors should have thermally insulated panels. If you are thinking about replacing an old door, make sure the new one fits perfectly and is weather-sealed or you’ll lose heat through gaps around the frame, especially if your exterior door opens straight into a room. Doors and windows can also make a huge difference to how energy-efficient a home is, how warm it is, and how high — or low — its fuel bills are. You only have to spend a winter evening in a room with no curtains to get a feel for how much heat is lost through a standard window — 18% in an uninsulated home according to the Energy Saving Trust, which says that double glazing halves the amount of heat that disappears through windows. Over time, the wooden frames of doors and windows expand and contract with temperature changes, sometimes leaving them with draughtmaking gaps. Local family business, Greenwich Joinery has been specialising in the manufacture and installation of bespoke windows and doors for the last 35 years. Their staff are skilled, factory trained and make quality box-frame and sashes, casement windows, French doors and bi-Folding doors. Providing a range from double-glazing, single glazing, obscure glass, and toughened/laminated glass, to the most energy efficient. Windows made from timber will guarantee a touch of class; and are in keeping with the Victorian and Edwardian architecture of the area. Their timber range of solid wood/laminated oak is sourced from Europe. Greenwich Joinery is fully insured and members of Fensa and the British Woodwork federation. They offer a bespoke service for each customer, and all supply and fit jobs come with a 10-year guarantee. Quotations and surveys are all free of charge with no obligation to proceed. www.greenwichjoinery.co.uk, email enquiries@greenwichjoinery.co.uk. 020 8692 0217 or 01332 225 700.

A new coat of paint will complete the transformation and get you through the dark days until spring arrives. Paint trends from Dulux’s Wildlife range, for 2015, are taken from our basic need to connect with the environment around us, surrounding ourselves with colours that reflect untamed landscapes from the harshest ice terrains to the wildest forests and mountains. Using colours from the lighter end of the palette will still create space, and add interest. There is no better friend to a small space than a well-placed mirror. Expanding walls, amplifying light, breaking up visual clutter, mirrors can be used to solve any design dilemma. Perhaps that’s why we feature their awesomeness so often. Using mirrors to create a sense of more space is a trick of interior designing and their use in decorating is making a big comeback. Mirrors help to give a sense of greater space by reflecting light, thus brightening a room and the reflection of the room also fools the eye (trompe - l’oeil) into feeling there is a greater amount of space than in reality. New light fittings can completely change the look and ambience of a room. A key trend for 2015, create a warm welcome in your home with this selection of copper lights from luxury lighting specialist Christopher Wray, ideal for adding a glamourous finishing touch to any room. Add warmth and make a statement in a room, with a wood-burning stove. Locail business, Westcombes report a huge increase in the popularity of woodburning stoves in recent years, partly due to hikes in gas and electricity prices. Like most urban areas, London is a smoke control zone. so you can usually only burn smokeless fuels. However, Westcombes stocks a huge range of wood-burning stoves which have been approved by DEFRA (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) for burning wood in smoke free zones. Investing in a wood-burning stove will not only bring you pleasure on chilly winter evenings, but will also add value to your property should you want to sell. Westcombes Ltd, 250-252 Lee High Road, Lewisham, SE13 5PL. 0208 852 6204. www.westcombes.co.uk Make sure you’re guaranteed a warm welcome. Valerie Breese.

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ME RID IA N PRO PERT Y

So it’s all change on the Stamp duty front! I hope you all had a great Christmas and lets hope for a healthy and prosperous New Year. I guess the big news for the first part of the year is going to be the general election and all the debate that brings. I won’t attempt to make any predictions on that front as that would be asking for trouble, but I would hazard a guess it could be an interesting result. Keeping with the political theme, it was a turn up for the books with the chancellor bringing in a complete change in how stamp duty is calculated in his autumn statement. The government press release said ‘Stamp duty will be cut for 98% of people who pay it - only the highest value residential properties will pay more’. Looking at the figures, in general if you are buying at less than £937,500 you will pay less stamp duty, although the exception is if you are buying at just over a million. To give a couple of examples of the biggest winners, if you were buying at £260,000 you used to pay £7,800, now its £3,000 so a saving of £4,800. Similarly at £510,000, stamp duty was £20,400, now £15,500 so saving £4,900. If you wish to calculate the stamp duty cost on the property you are buying or intend to buy

there is a calcultor on the HMRC website. (www.hmrc. gov.uk/tools/sdlt/land-and-property.htm) Looking ahead to the year on the housing front, with interest rates still at record lows and some potential savings on stamp duty, I think it will be busy first part of the year even with the election coming. I don’t think it will be as frenetic as last spring, but that’s no bad thing as most of us prefer a steadier market. Over the last few years, interestingly January has become the single busiest month for new buyers starting their property search. The property websites see searches on their sites rising significantly just after Christmas. I guess you can only eat so many mince pies and play scrabble with Auntie Ethel for so long! I also think that Christmas is one of the few times that people have time to stop, think and chat and make that decision that lets start looking for a new home in the new year. So as you might have guessed, I am now going to say if you are thinking of selling or letting your home, please give me a call. Happy New Year!

Feel free to call into Richard Piddock’s office in Blackheath (the old sweet shop on the corner of Wemyss Road) for a chat or contact me on. E: richard@jdmonline.com T: 020 8463 0091 All the best Richard Piddock

St. Johns SE8 £575,000 - £600,000

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Potential stamp duty saving £4,250. Beautiful Victorian terraced house which the current owners have extensively refurbished to a very high standard to provide an attractive home with all mod cons.

www.webaddress.com

020 8463 0091

Blackheath £1,650,000

A substantial family home in a great location with lots of potential. Situated in a popular residential road with Westcombe Park Station only 0.3 miles and Greenwich Park half a mile in the other direction as is the Heath. 020 8463 0091

Lee SE12 £339,950

Potential stamp duty saving £3,201. This is a great 3 bedroom end of terrace property which is perfect for first time buyers and all commuters! Lee station 0.6 miles.

Lee £465,000 - £475,000.

3 bedroom semi-detached house is situated in a convenient location and offers plenty of potential to update and decorate to your own taste. 020 8463 0091

020 8463 0091

Established 1996

Blackheath 020 8463 0091

Locksbottom 01689 880440

Bromley 020 8313 6800

Petts Wood 01689 819819

Chislehurst 020 8325 8000

Lettings 01689 838040

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ME R IDIA N BUSINESS

A Milestone In Changing Lives Meridian interviews Ken Cooper, Founder of The Shears Group. 50 Years In Business How did it all start?

I’ve seen the ups and downs of the salon industry since 1961 when I started a 3-year apprenticeship at the age of 15. Within a year of completing my apprenticeship, I opened ‘Ken’s’, a men’s only, 2-chair barber’s shop in Hither Green with savings from a paper round, and help from my father, Charlie, a man that was crucial in my career. He encouraged me to follow hairdressing from the start, saying: “Machines will never be able to take that job over!”, and he even paid my first quarter rent! This year, in November 2014 we celebrated 50 years since opening my first salon -

Why did you move the business from a barber shop?

It was 1970. Recognising the many changes that were happening in men’s’ hairdressing, and also, getting married, I felt the need to be part of the new wave. Encouraged by the proprietor of a men’s outfitters in Croydon, I moved the business to a new men only ‘salon’ called ‘Shears’. With a reception area, appointment bookings, separate backwash basins, all of which were fairly unique to men’s hairdressing in those days … plus coffee!

Uk-First Smart Device System is Window of Opportunity for Bexleyheath Businesses

Ken Cooper centre, with his team

When did you add women’s hairdressing to your business?

After a painfully slow start, the Shears business took off. It soon became a destination for ladies as many of his clients’ girlfriends and wives wanted to come to Shears, so our learning curve quickly steepened, and I attended Sassoon’s school in Davies Mews to develop my skills. This begun the culture of continuous training and education within the team.

Tell us more about the Shears Group now?

My company now consists of the Bickley based Claus & Co salon and Shears Academy the training college in Catford SE6. I still work my own column of clients at Claus & Co and attend team meetings both in the salon, and at the Academy, to support and encourage my team members to becoming the best they can be.

When did you expand the business?

The Academy continues to provide a wonderfully inspiring environment, which offers a unique learning experience to maximise the potential of our young hairdressers, which is something I’m particularly proud of. Previous Shears Academy students have gone on to start numerous businesses, and many awards have been won along the way.

Why the change of name?

50 years in business is an incredible achievement, and, as far as we can see, putting his scissors down anytime soon, doesn’t seem to be an option for Ken Cooper.

In 1974 the Bromley Shears salon opened, business was climbing from strength to strength, and we opened Shears training academy in 1984 and then the third Shears hairdressing salon opened in Eltham in 1987. Finally the new look, off-high street, “destination” salon, Claus & Co opened in September 1995.

It was an opportunity to work with two of my ‘hairdresser’ children to create a fresh new salon brand; and Claus is a family name - my great, great grand-father who was a gentleman’s hairdresser in the city.

Around 40 local businesses, including several in Broadway Shopping Centre, have placed Near Field Communications (NFC) logo tags in their shop windows as part of a new drive to connect with their customers. Shoppers can run their smart devices over the logos, which use the same Wi-Fi technology which underpins contactless card payments, and be instantly connected with the latest offers, discounts and information about the shop in front of them before even stepping foot through the door. Bexleyheath is the first town in the UK to benefit from the high-tech up to the minute software system and it has been implemented by Bexleyheath Business Partnership (BBP), which established a Business Improvement District (BID) for Bexleyheath town centre. When shoppers run their smart device over the shop window logos, they are taken directly to the BBP website where stores, restaurants and other companies participating in the NFC project can upload all their latest offers, vouchers and unique selling points to encourage their customers through the door. The man behind the idea is Ian Payne, Bexleyheath BID Manager. Ian said: “The new NFC system, which has cost £1,200 to implement and is funded by the BID, is part of our ongoing efforts to encourage more footfall, new businesses and healthy trade for Bexleyheath town centre.” For more information about the new smart device system for businesses in Bexleyheath and how it might benefit your store contact Chris or Ian: 0208 304 0775

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M E R IDIA N CO MPET IT IO N

Win a luxury boutique hotel Weekend Break for 2 in London at the Cranley Hotel Kensington. The lucky winners will be staying in an Executive Deluxe room with Breakfast included. To enter, simply go to www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/win and enter your details. Visit theromantictourist.com for Romantic Breaks, Anniversaries, Birthdays, Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and experiences for all special occasions!

www.theromantictourist.com

ME R IDIA N PRO PERT Y

The Liberty

Retirement apartments are rarely as refined

The Liberty, an exclusive development of 98 luxury two bedroom  apartments exclusively for buyers aged 55 or over, offers the ultimate  retirement residence in a unique, historic riverside setting. The Liberty is a strikingly contemporary building set in the prestigious Royal Arsenal Riverside development, a short distance from the river, and given its height of nine storeys, some of the apartments benefit from a river view. All residents will, however, be able to enjoy the views of the Thames from the bar located on the 7th floor as well as enjoying stunning views of Woolwich from the communal gardens.

Designed as an age-exclusive building for residents aged 55 or over, The Liberty includes a variety of on-site facilities including a restaurant, fitness studio, while trips to the hairdresser will be a thing of the past with the on-site salon, creating the atmosphere of an independent, boutique hotel. As you’d expect, each apartment has been fitted to a high quality interior specification and benefits from a private balcony, terrace or winter garden. The apartments at The Liberty are all finished to a high quality standard and include beautifully fitted kitchens by Manhattan. All the apartments benefit

from a private balcony, terrace or winter garden and residents will be able to rent parking spaces in a secure underground car park*. Silver surfers and readers are also catered for– there’s an I.T suite on site as well as a library. And if family or friends visit and want to stay over, they can use one of three dedicated guest suites. The Liberty occupies an enviable location close to the river, Woolwich Arsenal stations and the new Crossrail station, due to open in 2018. www.thelibertyapartments.co.uk

Meridian Picks...

Beautiful split level first floor apartment in Grade II listed period conversion overlooking the Village, Heath and All Saints Church. Offered in excellent condition the bright and spacious interior comprises large living room-contemporary fitted kitchen/ breakfast room – large double bedroom -bathroom – Communal garden.

We are delighted to offer this spacious two double bedroom two bathroom split level Georgian penthouse apartment in the most wonderful location in central Greenwich. Kitchen open plan to dining area, guest cloakroom, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom w/c, 2nd double bedroom, bathroom w/c with shower facility.

£480,000 Share of Freehold 020 8297 2922 www.kershaws.eu

To Let £1,900 pcm 020 8463 9955 www.heathestates.eu

Three bedroom lower ground floor apartment only moments from Blackheath Village (0.4 miles). The flat has just been re-decorated and is offered chain free. Master bedroom with ensuite shower room. Modern fitted kitchen and bathroom Guide Price £550,000 - £575,000 020 863 0091 JDM Blackheath Village www.jdmomline.com

This Period five bedroom Victorian villa set within the Westcombe Park Conservation Area in the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Westcombe Park mainline station is close by as are the Westcombe and Blackheath Standard shops. There is easy public transport to North Greenwich and the Jubilee Line. £1,950,000 020 8852 8383 www.jll.co.uk/residential

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Call 01322 557794

www.twintec.com watersofteners@meridian-magazine.co.uk

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MERIDIA N H E A LTH & F I TN E S S

Time for Yourself If your New Year’s resolution is to get some exercise, you need look no further than our comprehensive fitness guide to some of SE London’s best clubs and fitness centres. Whether it’s boxing circuit classes for teenagers or bootcamp sessions in Greenwich Park, there really is something for everyone. Nicola Berry Boasting spectacular views over Canary Wharf, the magnificent Reebok Sports Club is truly impressive. With 10,000 sq ft of training space, a state-of-the-art cardiovascular floor, 23m swimming pool and the luxurious Re:SPA, it’s easy to see why this is one of London’s most prestigious health and fitness clubs. Members can choose from over 200 weekly classes, including ski fitness during the season. Spa days are available to non-members; we rather like the sound of their rejuvenating detox package (a personal training session at the sports club plus two beauty treatments) which would make a perfect, post-Christmas treat. Reebok Sports Club, Canary Wharf E14 5ER. www.reebokclub.co.uk If you want small class sizes (which to do Pilates properly really is essential) and individual attention, look no further than Pilates and Rehab (previously Little Pilates) in Greenwich. Classes include reformer, private and duets, antenatal, mat classes and Pilates for men. They also offer rehabilitation and injury treatments, plus injury prevention and sports massage. Pilates and Rehab, 115A Trafalgar Road, Greenwich SE10 9TX. www.pilatesandrehab.com

Blackheath Group Exercise is a brand new fitness club offering professional, motivational and fun fitness classes at three separate venues in the SE3 area: Thomas Tallis Leisure Centre, The One Space Community Centre and St James’s Church, Blackheath. Their new Saturday afternoon teens boxing circuit class for youngsters aged between 14-16 starts on the 10 January at the Thomas Tallis Leisure Centre and is priced at £35 for the six week course or £7.50 per class. Adult classes include Total Body Workout, Core Fusion and Ultimate Boxercise. Prices range from a reasonable £45 per month for unlimited classes to just £5 for a standard ‘pop in’ class. www.blackheathgroupexercise.com

ME R IDIA N HEALT H & FIT N E S S David Lloyd in Kidbrooke is keen to encourage children and teenagers to keep active. The club offer a good range of memberships for individuals, families, juniors (14-18) and young adults (18-22). Facilities include a crèche and indoor pool. www.davidlloyd.co.uk/club-finder/kidbrooke The Greenwich Runners Club meet every Saturday morning in Greenwich Park. There are two sessions: one at 8.15am and one for beginners at 9.30am. Why not kick start your 2015 fitness routine by joining their seven week New Year beginners course which starts on the 10 January? Or just turn up for their Sunday Run Social. www.greenwichrunners.co.uk.

The Studio in Chislehurst High Street provides a whole host of classes for adults and children including dance, tap, ballet, fitness, Pilates and martial arts. The Studio, 95-97 High Street, Chislehurst BR7 5AG.

Greenwich Bootcamp also meets in Greenwich Park. Drop in classes are £12.50. www.greenwichbootcamp.co.uk. Alternatively, Natasha Green holds regular Bootcamp sessions on Blackheath. www.natashagreenpersonaltraining.com Both Bromley and Eltham have modern, high quality local leisure centres. The Pavilion in Bromley has a brand new gym, light and airy exercise studios and a very comprehensive range of classes. The Eltham Centre has a 100 station gym with all the latest cardiovascular and resistance machines, a 25m swimming pool, exercise studios and a health suite. Short term passes available.

GETTING FIT CAN BE FUN

Before I became a fitness expert I was a size 18 gymaphobic, whose idea of exercise was pushing a trolley around the biscuit aisle in my local supermarket.

A new type of exercise class has arrived at Greenwich Dance, power hoop, combining hula-hooping and exercise to music. Power hoop classes involve more than just hip-twirling; the weighted power hoop is used in a variety of manoeuvres to work all of the body’s muscle groups and is a really effective way to get fit. www.greenwichdance.org.uk/engage/class/power_hoop

Kinesiology course taster evening Want to find out more information about becoming a complementary health therapist? On Wednesday 28 January between 7-8.30 pm there will be an intro and demo on kinesiology. The evening event normally costs £15 but is free for Meridian readers. Health’s Angels will be running courses from March for those interested.

FREE

for Meridia readers n

Health’s Angels, Holistic therapy and weight loss clinic, 23 Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1LW. Tel : 01322 555600 www.healths-angels.com.

It wasn’t until my 40s that I discovered the fantastic benefits of exercise and also that it could actually be fun.

Devernois

Now I’m a personal trainer offering completely personalised one-on-one experiences in the privacy of a private gym. For a FREE consultation call Alex Riley on 07845 192 653 or e-mail alexrileypt@gmail.com. REPs registered Level 3 PT TRX Suspension Instructor Functional Performance Specialist Certified PadBox Instructor www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME R IDIA N HEALT H & BEAUTY

Meridian rounds up the best treatments available.. Why accept tooth loss?

Tooth loss is a common occurrence; with people living longer it will, unfortunately, become more prevalent. Tooth loss results in bone loss and the general ageing of the face. Historically, we used plastic removable dentures to replace missing teeth. Not only are they uncomfortable and unstable but also they only have approximately 10% of the function of a normal tooth.

Why should we accept this?

Most of our socialising involves eating, be it a family event or a simple meal out with friends. The lack of confidence a denture gives is unacceptable to some people. For the past 14 years, Gallions Reach Dental Practice have had the pleasure of discarding dentures and replacing them with fixed dental implants. Be it a single tooth or multiple teeth the end result is the same; a fixed replacement for a missing tooth. The difference that a fixed restoration makes is something that is always surprising. The resulting increase in function, confidence and enjoyment in eating is vast. Would I have a denture? No way and thankfully neither do my patients.

Find out more by calling Gallions Reach Dental Practice on 020 8312 1626

Transform your health and weight with RejuvaDetox Want to lose 10-14lbs of toxic fat in 28 days or a clothes size? Guaranteed. If you want to improve your health or drop unwanted fat, we guarantee results or we’ll give you free treatments until you do. Many RejuvaDetox clients have achieved life changing results, many coming off long term medication (in conjunction with their GP’s consent). RejuvaDetox programme works by cleansing the intestines and supporting the liver with a cleansing food plan and regular sessions on a detoxifying machine which helps the lymph drain and cells respond to releasing stubborn toxin build up. The combination is a winning formula! The RejuvaDetox programme is amazing for both men and women and Health’s Angels, an established and thriving Complementary Healthcare clinic in Bexley Village since 1999, are pioneers in this treatment. Consultations are free and include an intestinal health scan. ‘Best decision I ever made is going on RejuvaDetox’, says Carolyn Bradshaw, ‘The best kick start to new, healthy lifestyle changes, feeling slim, more energy and smoother skin. I incredibly lost a further 15 inches and 5 lbs. after just two RejuvaDetox booster sessions! (Over 4 days) Everyone needs to do this!’

Blackheath just got better! You may have heard over the news wire that our satellite sites at Wimbledon and Blackheath are now open and seeing their first few clients through the doors. As the centre manager of the latter, I wanted to take a moment to give you an idea of what we’ve been up to! Since our opening a few months ago, we’ve accumulated a team with such breadth and depth of knowledge – including FMS, BSc Hons in Sports Rehabilitation, Certified Srength & Conditioning Specialist and MSc Strength & Conditioning - that we felt compelled to expand our product range. As well as personal training, we felt it fitting to begin catering for sports teams considering our little bit of Blackheath is where club rugby began! The expertise of our team have allowed us to offer relevant services to youth and senior teams alike, as well as maintaining the impeccable 1:1 personal training standards that have won our company so much repute. Come on down to Rectory Field and meet the team or you’ll wish you had! Paul Dawson , BSc Hons, FMS Centre Manager, Blackheath. The Better Body Group.

WINk

e 6 fawt e loss course

Health’s Angels. Call us now on 01322 555600 to find out more

Want soft skin and glossy hair A water softener is the answer, softened water can greatly improve certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and winter dry skin. Both skin and hair will feel softer and hair will be left shinier and more manageable. TwinTec Water Softeners – 01322 557794 or visit www.twintec.com

For your chance to win a six-week, all inclusive fat loss transformation worth £670, simply go to www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/ win by 31 January. For more information give us a call today for a free, no obligation 30min consultation. 01732 451 979 or visit www.betterbodygroup.co.uk

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60 is the new 40

MERIDIA N L IF E S TYL E

We’ve all heard the saying ’60 is the new 40’, but never has it seemed so true. Claire McKinson takes a look at today’s not so ‘senior’ citizens.

With a population that’s living longer and larger than ever before, over 60s are no longer just overlooked as OAPs or senior citizens. They are healthier, fitter and seem to having more fun than previous generations of older people before them. Today’s 60 pluses are redefining the way society views the ‘older person’ and living out their golden years in their very own baby boomer way. Think about most people you know who are over 60 and no doubt they’ll seem a world away from the old age pensioners you remember from your childhood. For one, there’s more of them: 8.6million people in England are aged 65+ (to be precise) and they are in better health and can expect to live longer than ever before.

Introducing the AOP Nowadays, it’s not so much OAP but rather AOP – the ‘athletic older person’. Whether it’s through cycling, swimming, yoga, or the gym, the AOP is taking better care of their health by continuing to remain active, and putting most people twice their age to shame. Researchers at Liverpool Victoria found that 1 in 5 60-somethings thought they were ‘in their best ever shape’. The baby boom generation could also be dubbed ‘active older persons’. As well as working and therefore earning for longer, it appears they are truly embracing their extra free time, too. Whether that’s spending more time with their (growing) families, pursuing new hobbies or joining clubs; being more social is high on this new breed of sixty-somethings to-do lists.

Living smaller, dreaming bigger These days, arriving at the landmark age of 60 doesn’t mean slowing down or even stalling for a second, and that includes being part of the fast-paced UK property market, too. For many who have paid off their mortgages, downsizing can free-up money that can be spent on adventures that may have been put to one side earlier in life. In a 2013 report, insurer Aviva found that 44% of retirees plan to use their extra time in retirement to go travelling.

Future Proofing However, with 2 million of over 65s having difficulty with one of more daily tasks, such as washing, dressing, cooking or eating*; many people take to future-proofing their homes, or consider moving to somewhere that is low maintenance, while they are still fit and healthy. New build developments aren’t just popular with first time buyers. They run more efficiently than older properties, need very little to no work to be done to them and benefit from being safer and more secure – all the better for when you’re away, busy enjoying that backpacker dream you’ve always spoken about. But for now, there’s good news. Liverpool Victoria’s survey also highlighted that most 60-something they interviewed said they didn’t feel their true age, with the majority saying they ‘feel at least 8 years younger’. So, keep enjoying life, defying the years and embracing it in true baby boomer style! We salute you. *source: Independent Age and Strategic Society Centre based on 2011 to 2013 data

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ME R IDIA N HEALT H

Imagine the shock of going on a family outing to the ice rink at Somerset House and leaving with a broken tooth from falling face first on the ice. Sounds unlikely? Sadly, accidents such as this are not uncommon. When accidents like this happen, many people go into shock and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily think about trying to locate the broken pieces of tooth. Try to find the broken pieces. Often they can be successfully bonded back into place. If it is a whole tooth that has been knocked out, put it in milk and get professional help as soon as possible. The milk is not so important for a piece of tooth but wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do any harm. What is important is to get to your own dentist as quickly as possible. If you cannot get to see your own dentist, there is usually an emergency dentist on call. Your usual dentist should supply the contact number or if not, call NHS 111. Whilst Finn Dental Specialists do not have an emergency dentist available at all times, it is worth calling as we are often able to help. Kings College Hospital has a dental trauma unit open during the week but on weekends you would go to the Maxillo-Facial Unit via A&E. The tooth cannot always be saved but you have best the chance if you are seen quickly.

Broken tooth after skating accident

If you are unable to find the pieces of broken tooth, then a repair with composite bonding can often be undertaken whilst conserving as much of the tooth as possible. As you will see from the photos restoration of a broken tooth using pieces of the tooth and composite bonding can produce outstanding aesthetic results. Greg Finn Finn Dental Specialists, Backwoods, Kelsey Lane, Beckenham, Kent BR3 3NE Tel: 020 8658 1230 www.finndentalspecialists.com Broken piece of tooth bonded back into place

ME RID IA N FASHIO N

Winter Warmers

Looking good when it’s freezing is a niche wardrobe art

During the winter months, we all want to look our best, but it’s just so hard to layer up and still look great. The abundance of cold weather accessories – (hats, gloves, scarves) can be overwhelming, and bulky sweaters, coats and boots can leave you looking like a haphazard snow woman, if you’re not careful. So, this year, instead of forfeiting style for comfort, add a splash of red and feel the glow.

Vivienne Westwood Red Tartan Scarf £185 House of Fraser

Bucle Biker Jacket Debenhams £150

Mulberry Red Dorset Tote Bag £595 House of Fraser

Red Herring Jumper £35

Devernois

OSKA Blackheath fashion design for women is individual, timeless, and urban. Clean simple forms with sophisticated details, OSKA is defined by casual elegance.

Monsoon Edie Embroidered Knit Dress £79

We are now excited to announce the arrival of new Spring/Summer 2015 Collection available in store and online.

Armani Jeans Mini Bowler £145 House of Fraser

20 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath SE3 0TA T: 020 8852 9774 blackheath.oska.com blackheath@oska.com www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME RID IA N EDUCAT IO N

Mayfield Riders Clean up at the National Schools Championships The Mayfield riding squad is celebrating after taking the National Schools Championships by storm once again, and claiming a whole string of championship titles! As well as an individual title for 15 year old, Amy Whiffen in the 1.10/1.15m Show Jumping championship, the successful East Sussex girls’ school took home three of the nine team championship titles up for grabs, as well as finishing runners up and placed in a further four championship classes. The 17-strong squad from the independent girls’ school travelled to Addington Manor where the prestigious competition is held each year, ready to compete for the top prizes against over 800 competitors from 180 schools from all over Britain. Mayfield School, The Old Palace, Mayfield, East Sussex. 01435 874600

National Championships 10-year old, Aryan Narayan from Charlton has spearheaded his chess team to second place in the under 14 national championship. Aryan, who attends the Pointer School in Blackheath, represented Kent in the prestigious tournament. Aryan has only been playing the game for two years, having been inspired by his Dad as well as his school Chess coach, Mr Madan Augustin. Pointers School, 19 Stratheden Road, Blackheath SE3 7TH.020 8293 1331

The crème de la crème Schools from London and the South East were celebrated at the Food for Life Partnership’s (FFLP) award ceremony. They have transformed their food culture by serving healthy, fresh meals whilst providing pupils with the opportunity to cook, grow and visit farms. Chef and restaurateur, Brian Turner CBE and former dinner lady and FFLP co-founder, Jeanette Orrey MBE hosted the celebrations. Eleven schools were presented with their awards, with an unprecedented four of them being gold.

Charlton Manor photo with their gold FFLP award, left to right: Brian Turner CBE, chef/restaurateur, Joe Turner-Wing (Charlton Manor chef), Rebecca Steele (teacher) Front row: Robert Robertson, Jessica Kim Lun

One of these gold awards was presented to Charlton Manor Primary School. Head teacher, Tim Baker said, “Only last week we achieved both our silver and gold FFLP awards. They recognise the hard work by all staff in the school and the great partnership work between the school and our caterers GS Plus. We are all very proud of this achievement.”

REFURBISHMENT OF JOHN ROAN

John McAslan + Partners were appointed in 2010 to remodel John Roan School’s existing Grade II listed building at Maze Hill and to provide a new 7,600 sqm school and community building at Westcombe Park. The 1,400-pupil secondary school is split across two sites adjacent to Greenwich Park. The refurbishment and extension has involved the remodelling of the classrooms and internal courtyards to create a new dining area, a learning resource area and ICT breakout space at Maze Hill site. While the new building at Westcombe Park provides a range of flexible, transformational learning environments, alongside a sports and amenity building which can be operated independently as a community facility.

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M E R IDIA N PARENT ING

Change Your Career, Change a life A New Year but there remains a national shortage of foster carers, meaning that children who cannot live with their family are being moved away from their home. Next Step Fostering, a leading independent fostering agency, is seeking new foster carers for its London and Kent offices to provide essential foster care services to children and young people in the local area. Many people considering a career as a foster carer think that the local council is their only option. Most are completely unaware that independent fostering organisations even exist. A family-owned business, Next Step Fostering has provided fostering services for over 25 years across Kent and most areas of London. Next Step is urgently seeking foster carers in the London and Kent areas. Next Step Fostering was established 25 years ago by Maureen and Alb Ward – who were foster carers themselves – and therefore have had personal experience of caring for vulnerable children.

Step receives child referrals from local authorities across the south east of England, but due to high levels of demand, do not have sufficient families to meet the needs of the many children being referred.

Next Step Fostering remains a family company as Maureen and Alb’s daughter Lesley is the Director. She plays an active role in day-to-day decisions about the company and enjoys visiting foster carers to hear first-hand how they are.

Fostering a child is not an easy task, but it is possibly one of the most rewarding, and thanks to the generous allowance Next Step Fostering pays, many people give up unfulfilling jobs to undertake a career in fostering, where they feel they can really make a difference to young lives.

As a family-run company, Next Step Fostering is able to offer a personal, individual service to its foster carers and children. Supervision, support and training can be tailored to individual needs, and foster carers have an open invitation to approach Lesley Ward directly to discuss any issues they many have. As a company we advocate for the children in our care and strive to achieve the best outcomes for them.

Neil McCarthy, Registered Manager of Next Step Fostering says, ‘People often worry that they won’t be suitable, based on things they have heard from friends or the media, but I would encourage anyone thinking about fostering to speak to us directly. We can answer all of their questions about the type of people we are looking for and what fostering is like.

A national shortage of foster carers means that children who cannot live with their family are being moved away from their home communities, resulting in a change of school, community, friends and religious contracts. Every day, Next

If you are considering a career in fostering or simply want to learn more, call Next Step Fostering on 0845 603 8354 for further information, or visit their website at: www.nextstepfostering.org

You could Adopt a Bexley Child Andrew spotted the advert for the Bexley adoption open day. Having made our decision to become parents we were uncertain about what to do next, so it was a perfect opportunity to go along and find out. “We were nervous about what questions to ask or if we’d be the only two men in the room, but after five minutes with one of the social workers we felt much more comfortable. We were given clear information, and able to ask all the questions we had. The standard of help and support we received at the first meeting was the same throughout our entire adoption experience. It’s not all been easy. The two-stage process included lots of form filling, training days and lots of questions about our lives and why we wanted to be parents. At the same time it’s been one of the most interesting and satisfying experiences that we’ve been through together. Our two Bexley social workers, one for each stage, have been really supportive over the last nine months. That’s all it has taken from start, to our adoption panel, who gave us their unanimous approval. Now we are in the matching stage, and can’t wait to become dads. Find out more about the adoption process at www.bexley.gov.uk/adoption or call 0800 783 7699.

Prospective parents - Andrew and his partner

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M E R IDIA N EAT OUT

Aqua-Bromley

We visited Market Parade in East Bromley a year ago, at that time it was a development site, a work in progress. A lot of work has been done and the result looks upmarket and prosperous. Both sides of the street feature a range of restaurants. Competition is strong and as we hadn’t booked, we waited for a table at Aqua on a Monday night, which suggests the economy isn’t doing so badly. Sat by the window, we looked through a lengthy menu. I considered a mixed grill, which included a selection of chicken souvlaki, lamb cutlets, Greek village sausage (Pastirma?) and sirloin steak served with a grilled portobello mushroom and chips, but decided that was too much, post Christmas binge.

Everest WIN Inn AM

e for twaol

My partner noticed that all steaks are half price on Mondays. Aqua serves carefully sourced meat and the menu says ‘all our beef is British and dry aged for 28 days’. This makes a huge difference to the eating experience, so I looked no further, even more so because the kitchen’s centrepiece is a bespoke charcoal grill that gives a unique flavour to meats. I chose a 250g Fillet steak, but without the buttered spinach, creamy mash and peppercorn sauce. I prefer to eat steaks without carbs, so I asked to have the steak with just a Caprese salad (from the starter menu), buffalo mozzarella with vine tomatoes, kalamata olives, avocado and basil. The avocado is not classically correct in insalata caprese, however it went extremely well with my very rare steak. To start, my partner chose hot tiger prawns, pan fried with garlic butter, chilli and parsley sauce. They arrived at table butterflied and sitting upright in a row on a long white plate. She said they tasted even better than they looked. The restaurant stayed full of customers as we ate; business is good. Christmas parties brought a happiness to the evening and it was good to feel relaxed. My partner’s main, tagliatelle with smoked chicken, mange tout and parmesan cream sauce arrived with my fillet steak, and we both ate happily ever after, well, for the next half hour or so. That was a memorable steak, very simply done, perfect. She chose an old favourite, creme brulee, this time flavoured with Bailey’s, which she loves, while I chose a selection of baklavas, Greek filo pastry filled with pistachio and honey. These were gorgeous followed by good quality espresso coffees. With glasses of Malbec, the whole meal came to £72, extremely good value.

It is a surprise to find a restaurant in south east London producing dishes that could trump the authenticity and quality of any eatery in Kathmandu. What distinguishes the food produced in the kitchen of the Everest Inn is the freshness of the ingredients and the fact that dishes are cooked to order. The Telegraph Win a meal for two at the award-winning Nepalese Restaurant, Everest Inn in Blackheath Village, which has been selected in the Telegraph’s ‘Favourite places in London from the best 30 countries.’ To enter just go to www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/win

Michael Breese

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ME R IDIA N EAT IN

The Food of Love

Talking about food so soon after Christmas may seem a little excessive, but Valentine’s Day will be upon us soon, and food is all about love... So, if you’re dining in, here are a few ingredients that must make it onto your shopping list, to ensure your dinner date goes with a bang.

Bubbles The saying goes that ‘If my heart was a compass you’d be North,’ and this year Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte embarks on the ultimate journey for Valentine’s Day, treating lovers all over the world with its famous compass motif Champagne. Let Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Rosé be your first port of call to adding a touch of your romance to your Valentine’s Day.

Seductive Stalks Mankind’s love affair with this member of the Lily family dates back hundreds of years. Asparagus “stirs up lust in man and woman,” wrote English herbalist, Nicholas Culpepper in the seventeenth century. Whereas in nineteenth century France, bridegrooms were served three courses of the sexy spears at their prenuptial dinner.

Mushroom Mojo A celebrated aphrodisiac since the times of ancient Rome, the truffle emits an aroma said to be irresistible to the female persuasion — at least to female pigs. Sows are traditionally used to hunt these delicacies, because the animals go after a pheromonal compound in the truffles’ scent called androstenone, which is similar to male sweat! That’s why this scent also works on humans — although for some it is too strong to be appealing, while a small portion of the population can’t smell androstenone at all. However, for most — male or female — the indulgence in a truffle, whether black or white, is among the most alluring culinary experiences in the world. No expense spared when it comes to love.

The Allure of the Almond

Turn up the Heat!

We are nuts about almonds, unless you have an allergy. The aroma of almonds supposedly arouses passion in females — or so thought the poets and scribes of bygone eras. French writer, Alexandre Dumas, the author of The Count of Monte Cristo, dined on almond soup every night before meeting his mistress. And Samson wooed Delilah with these tasty morsels, which lower cholesterol and provide abundant doses of vitamin E, magnesium and fibre to improve your general well-being.

Chilli peppers score near the top of love’s leader board. Their ability to release endorphins can cause a boost in mood and surge in energy as good as a runner’s high. Chilli’s heat warms the body from the inside out, and has the potential for sending an urge to tear off clothing.

Forbidden Fruit Avocados are va-va-voom! But despite their voluptuous and feminine shape, think Kim Kardashian, they have been associated with male sexuality. In fact, the Aztecs’ name for the avocado tree was Ahuacuatl, ‘testicle tree’. The Spanish, in fact, found avocados so obscenely sexy, that Catholic priests prohibited their consumption. Guacamole as a starter, will hit the right note.

Most famously, chilli was used as a key ingredient in the fortifying South American chocolate drink.

Mmmm..... Valentine’s day collection of caramel sensations by la maison du chocolat uk will win hearts. Available in four sizes: £ 10 (4 chocolates) £ 14.50 (8 chocolates) £ 29 (15 chocolates) £ 44 (24 chocolates).

www.lamaisonduchocolat.co.uk www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N JAMES HADDRELL INTRODUCES THE LATEST COMPANY TO JOIN GREENWICH THEATRE

ONGOING ART, DRAMA, MUSIC, LANGUAGE & WINE COURSES

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

BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY 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.

SMOOTH FACED GENTLEMEN Working on a fundraising application recently, I came across an interesting statistic. It seems that women make up only 16% of Shakespeare’s characters, and speak less than 6% of the lines. At first thought that doesn’t seem right – characters like Lady Macbeth, Lear’s warring daughters or the tragic Juliet are so important to those stories and have such memorable lines that surely women have a higher presence in Shakespeare. But then, when you think about the companies that surround them, it starts to ring true. In King Lear, the king’s three daughters are the only female characters in the play. In Macbeth, if you set aside the witches and a fleeting visit from Lady Macduff, there are no other female characters. The likes of Macbeth’s queen and Lear’s daughters may be major characters, but they exist in plays hugely dominated by men. In the history plays, maybe this is because Shakespeare was writing about the figures dominating politics and the military, which were inevitably men. Maybe too the fact that he was writing for all male companies, which meant that each female character had to be played by a man, was an influence on his writing. However, the crosscasting was not a barrier to telling the story, and today there are companies like Propellor recreating that all-male Shakespearean performance to high acclaim. One company, however, have turned the argument on its head. Smooth Faced Gentlemen is a young company dedicated to producing Shakespeare’s plays with all-female casts. In 2013, having already

‘BEST PLAY AWARD AT THE BUXTON FRINGE, THE COMPANY MADE A HUGE IMPACT AT THE EDINBURGH FESTIVAL WITH THEIR PRODUCTION OF TITUS ANDRONICUS, AND NOW THEY ARE THE LATEST COMPANY TO JOIN GREENWICH THEATRE AS A SUPPORTED COMPANY.’

won the John Beecher Award and the Best Play Award at the Buxton Fringe, the company made a huge impact at the Edinburgh Festival with their production of Titus Andronicus, and now they are the latest company to join Greenwich Theatre as a Supported Company. This year audiences can expect to see a range of work from the company here in Greenwich, including a revival of the award-winning Titus Andronicus scheduled for April, but first, as an introduction to the company and to their passion for Shakespeare, look out for Shakespeare Shuffle – a new show at the end of January in which SFG will lead a range of companies renowned for their performances of Shakespeare in sharing out a play, each presenting a different act. There is a risk, I know, that all this can sound like a bit of a novelty, a company looking for a niche to occupy or for a way to be noticed. However, far from being that, Smooth Faced Gentlemen are a young company with a bold ambition to address the gender imbalance still seen on our stages, whether in performances from the 16th Century or the 21st, and their work is built on an absolute respect for, and love of, the works of Shakespeare. For me, having seen so many productions of Shakespeare’s work in my life, anything that makes me watch the play afresh, to listen to the words again and rediscover the astonishing writing, can only be a good thing. www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk www.smoothfacedgentlemen.com

GREENWICH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY

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

GUIDED WALK IN MARYON WILSON PARK

With an animal park & deer enclosure. Tours held at 1.30pm every Wednesday, meet by the deer pen, limited to the first 50 people. Free. Maryon Wilson Park, Thorntree Road, Charlton, SE7.

KIDS KNITTING & CROCHET WORKSHOPS Every Fri & Sat 11am-1pm.

Special discount £8/2h session (quote:MERIDIAN) Book online at www.knitshop.co.uk or call 020 8144 4523, Boutique Outlet, 326 Lee High Road, SE13 5PJ.

LEARN TAROT CARDS

Develop your intuition and communication skills. Private tuition and workshops with an experienced reader. Email: marieclaire@tarotgift.com, www. tarotgift.com Tel: 07791 139 380, 020 8293 1737.

EVERY MON ROTARY CLUB OF LEWISHAM & PENGE

Local businessmen and women giving help locally, national and internationally. We meet at 7pm for a dinner, with speakers on a variety of subjects. Contact Peter Earll 020 8303 3361 or Alan Davis 020 8467 2032. Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley.

LIVE MUSIC & OPEN MIC

Jive jazz hosted by Dave Silk (bass) fusing legendary and experienced musos together with first time and amateur performers. In relaxed candlelit setting. Bar opens 8pm. £10 on the door. www.jazznights.co.uk. Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE.

2ND TUES OF EVERY MONTH 8THE BLACKHEATH & GREENWICH AMNESTY GROUP Monthly meetings. 8pm. St. Margaret’s Church, Lee Terrace, Blackheath SE3.

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

EVERY WED KEEP FIT & IN SHAPE + LINE DANCING

FRI 9 JAN CONCERT.

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 The Clockhouse Community Centre, Defiance Walk, Woolwich Dockyard, SE18 5QL.

SAT 10 – 18 JAN LONDON BOAT SHOW.

Paradisal Players with Sam Burstin. 7-8pm. £tba. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

10am - 12 noon. Donation £5 to Cancer Research UK. 020 8852 7127. Kingswood Hall, Kingswood Place, off Dacre Park, Lewisham SE13.

EVERY THURS BLACKHEATH MORRIS MEN.

Practice 8.45-10pm. St Marks Church Upper Hall, Greenwich South Street SE10. Free. Contact John on 020 8461 2440. www.blackheathmorris.com

ROTARY CLUB OF GREENWICH. For like-minded business people to meet & help the community. Fred Nunn 020 8858 6410. Charlton Football Club, Floyd Rd; Charlton SE7 8BL.

EVERY FRI LUNCHTIME CONCERT. 1pm – 2pm.

Free 020 8856 3951.Charlton House, Charlton Rd; SE7

TANGOWORKOUT Classes connecting

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

BROMLEY GREEN GYM

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.

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 SUNDAY 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, and 1.30pm on 2nd Tues of each month. 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.

MEAT FREE MONDAYS You are invited to the launch of the Greenwich, Blackheath and Lee ‘Meat-free Mondays’ Initiative. Paul, Mary and Stella McCartney started meat-free Mondays 5-years ago with the slogan ‘one day a week can make a world of difference’. If people were to stop eating meat one day a week, the results in personal, environmental and animal health would be staggering, not to mention the benefits to one’s purse. Come and hear how local authorities, schools, restaurants and businesses are hoping to take this forward, and share your thoughts and ideas about it over a drink and some veggie nibbles. RSVP To: m.a.hadfield-spoor@hotmail.co.uk Monday 19 January. 6-7.30pm.  The Age Exchange Studio, 11 Blackheath Village, SE3 9LA.

UNTIL 30 JAN GREAT WAR EXHIBITION:

Charlton House. Discover the impact that the First World War had on Greenwich in this exhibition. Staff and volunteers at the Royal Greenwich Heritage Trust as part of their Family Stories of the Great War project have created the exhibition. Free. Charlton House, Charlton Village, SE7 8UD.

UNTIL 28 FEB ICE RINK AT CANARY WHARF.

Skate amongst the twinkling trees in Canada Square Park against the striking architectural backdrop that includes the famous One Canada Square building. For more information visit www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk.

UNTIL 31 DEC 2015 INSIDE THE ARSENAL.

This free exhibition tells the fascinating story of the Royal Arsenal and the Royal Woolwich Dockyard by looking across 400 years of history, from Henry VIII to modern times. You can see films and pictures, also read and listen to first-hand accounts of what life was like inside and outside the Arsenal gates. Free. 9am5pm. 020 8854 2452. Greenwich Heritage Centre Main Gallery, Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 4DX.

TUES 6 JAN SPRING COURSES.

Art & Music Studies: Anniversaries & Exhibitions 2015. Each session will explore a topical subject concerning

the history of the arts. A friendly and lively group that would welcome new members and their contributions. 11 sessions. 2-4pm. £86.90 or Free, if in receipt of selected means tested benefits. WEA Bexley, The Learning Centre, 5 Brampton Road, Bexleyheath DA7 4EZ.

WED 7, 14, 21, 28 JAN & 4 FEB TAPESTRY GROUP.

Enjoy sewing and would like to get involved with this project at St. Alfege. 10am-1pm. Caton Room, St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

THURS 8 JAN 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.

THURS 8 – 11 JAN LONDON CLASSIC CAR SHOW.

Marvel at the most amazing cars and hear them in action on a live runway of motors called the Grand Avenue. 020 7069 5000. For times and tickets visit www.excel-london.co.uk. Excel, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London E16 1XL.

The biggest boat show in London with 500 exhibitors across boating and watersports, with plenty of shopping and the latest on equipment, holidays and watercraft innovation. 020 7069 5000. For times and tickets visit www.excel-london.co.uk. Excel, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London E16 1XL.

SAT 10 JAN LUNCHTIME RECITAL. Leah Evans.

1.05pm. Free. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

SAT 10, 16 & 17 JAN DICK WHITTINGTON. New Eltham

Methodist Church Pantomime Group proudly presents their 44th family pantomime, which has something for everyone. 7.30pm and Mat at 2.30pm on 10 & 17. £8. 020 8851 9881. www. newelthampantomime. co.uk. The Centre, New Eltham Methodist Church, 435-9 Footscray Road, SE9 3UL.

THURS 15 JAN 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 16 JAN CONCERT. ST PAUL’S SINFONIA.

Details tbs. 7-8pm. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

BLACKHEATH SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY.

A talk on Chiropractice by Dr Jason Gould, lead Chiropractor at Chislehurst Chiropractic Clinic. 7.45pm. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road SE3 7SE.

SAT 17 JAN TABLE TOP SALE.

Slightly different to the usual Nearly New Sales in that you can interact with the sellers, so you can ask about the product you are buying and even haggle!!  Sellers keep ALL their proceeds! Secondhand toys, books and equipment for under-12s together with a wide range of clothing for babies, children and expectant Mums.10am 12pm - NCT members entry 10am - Non-members entry 10.15am.  £1 (children free) Table cost: £10 for 1 table (4ft). £18 for 2 tables.  Bonus Pastor Catholic School, Winlaton Rd, BR1 5PZ

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WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N HIGHLAND SWING: SAT 17 & 18 JAN QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT.

This winning combination of Queen + Adam Lambert follows with what will surely be an equally triumphant tour of the UK and Europe. From £49. 6.30pm. www. axs.com. The O2 Arena, Greenwich Peninsula Square, Greenwich SE10 0DX.

MON 19 JAN BLACKHEATH HALLS LUNCHTIME RECITALS.

Keats String Quartet. Mary Robertson & Charlotte Fairbairn violins, Heather Bourne viola and Elisheba Stevens cello. Mendelssohn & Janáček. 1.10pm. Free with retiring collection for the benefit of Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

WED 21 JAN

LONDON CLASSIC CAR SHOW TV star James Martin mixes cars and cuisine, as he becomes a curator of the inaugural London Classic Car Show TV chef and car nut James Martin is cooking up the perfect dish for visitors to January’s London Classic Car Show. His ingredients include a scattering of classic Minis and a fistful of Ferraris with a Ford Mustang garnish. For as well as running his own café at the show, the star of Saturday Kitchen is a curator of the event and has been tasked with gathering displays of classic cars that have a particular personal meaning. His starter is a gathering of five historically important Minis, all from his personal collection, which will be displayed inside the James Martin Classic Café. The main course, meanwhile, includes a pair of rare Ferraris – a 275GTB and a Testarossa – and the Ford Mustang, all of which will be driven up and down one of the show’s unique features, The Grand Avenue. Held at ExCeL in London’s Docklands from 8-11 January 2015, the London Classic Car Show is no static exhibition. Grand Avenue, a runway driving through the heart of the show, will be active at regular points throughout the event, giving visitors the chance to see (and hear) some of the world’s most valuable classic cars in action. Tickets are now available from the show website – www.thelondonclassiccarshow.co.uk – where early bird discounts reduce the on-the-door standard entry price from £25 to just £22.50.

SAT 17 JAN GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB. AGM – 12.15pm at Davys Wine Vaults

(Nelson Room), 161 Greenwich High Road, Greenwich. Drinks and bar food available. Preceded by a short stroll across Blackheath and down through Greenwich Park, led by Rona Sullivan. Meet at Blackheath Station for 11am start. Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details. New members welcome. Lunchtime Recital. The Peacock Ensemble with Rebecca Cohen. 1.05pm. Free. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

SCHOOL GOVERNOR TASTER SESSIONS.

Interested in becoming a school governor? Volunteering to be a governor can be both challenging and rewarding. Free taster sessions for potential new governors. 7-9pm. Free. To book your place please call 020 8461 8658 or visit www.bromleyedconline.org.uk. Widmore Centre, Nightingale Lane, Bromley BR1 2SQ.

Television Awards. Join hundreds of stars for the biggest night in British TV when the National Television Awards, hosted by Dermot O’Leary, returns to the O2. From X Factor to Strictly, Corrie to EastEnders, Downtown to Doctor Who, all the biggest stars from the nation’s favourite shows gather together. 6.30pm. £23.50 - £38.75. www.axs.com. The O2 Arena, Greenwich Peninsula Square, Greenwich SE10 0DX.

THURS 22 JAN 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.

Frank And Dean’s Burns Night Hootenanny. Boisdale of Canary Wharf will be featuring our legendary piper and Scottish speaker who will be reciting the Ode to the haggis as well as, not wanting to spoil the plot, stabbing (murdering!) the Haggis. The Rat Pack is back and tonight they’re presenting their unbeatable blend of swing classics, floor filling classic pop and a few Scottish surprises along the way. The most fun you can have with your kilt on. From 6pm onwards. Book tickets www.tickets.boisdale.co.uk. Boisdale Canary Wharf, Cabot Place, Canary Wharf, E14 4QT.

SUN 25 JAN CHAMBER MUSIC ON VANBRUGH HILL.

Every month the Steinberg Duo open the doors of their purpose-built chamber music studio for a small audience to listen to an hour’s recital followed by refreshments. Violin & piano recital: Franck & Mozart. 6pm. £10 booked in advance on line at www. steinbergduo.com. Steinberg Studio, 137 Vanbrugh Hill, Greenwich SE10 9HP.

MON 26 JAN BLACKHEATH HALLS LUNCHTIME RECITALS.

Emilie Capulet piano. Ravel & Debussy. 1.10pm. Free with retiring collection for the benefit of Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

TUES 27 JAN BACH TO BABY.

BLACKHEATH HALLS LUNCHTIME RECITALS.

The critically acclaimed Classical Concert series for Baby and You founded by concert pianist and mum, Miaomiao Yu. Classical music, feeding, crying, dancing and nappy changing. Be amazed at how your child will love Bach, Beethoven and Brahms. 10.30am. £10. Bromley United Reformed Church, 20 Widmore Road, Bromley BR11RY.

THURS 22 JAN BACH TO BABY.

BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY.

Maya Irgalina piano. Chopin & Schumann. 1.10pm. Free with retiring collection for the benefit of Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

The critically acclaimed Classical Concert series for Baby and You founded by concert pianist and mum, Miaomiao Yu. Classical music, feeding, crying, dancing and nappy changing. Be amazed at how your child will love Bach, Beethoven and Brahms. “Very beautiful, emotional ... moved me to tears. The artists didn’t mind the children running around either & that’s important so you can relax!” — Pam, Greenwich. 4pm. £10. 020 8858 1749. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, SE3 7SE.

SAT 24 JAN RAMBLING CLUB.

An 8-mile linear walk following the London Loop close to the Hogsmill River to Kingston Station. Meet at Blackheath Station for 10.30am at Ewell West Station (9.54 train from Waterloo). Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details. New members welcome.

LUNCHTIME RECITAL.

Warwick Hewson. 1.05pm. Free. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

Painting Inspired by Music and Music. Inspired by Painting is the ingenious theme of today’s lecture by Peter Medhurst. Refreshments 2pm for 2.30pm. Visitors £5www.artsinblackheath.org.uk. St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackheath SE3.

THURS 29 JAN 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.

SAT 31 JAN WEDDING SHOWCASE.

Couples looking for a uniquely chic and stunning location for their wedding day, plus inspirational ideas to help make it perfect, can tour Eltham Palace and Gardens, a perfect wedding venue. 11am-3pm. Free. Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE.

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SCULPTING MOTION FROM 24 JAN UNTIL 28 FEB

The Fickle Screen. An exhibition by multi-media installation artist Madi Boyd. Open Saturdays, 12-4pm, Free. 020 8857 0448. www.geraldmooregallery.org. Gerald Moore Gallery, Mottingham Lane, SE9 4RW.

DROP IN AT THE WILDLIFE CENTRE.

A chance for children to find out about the wildlife in Greenwich Park. Included are craft activities and guided tours of the Nature Trail. 1-30pm. Free. The Wildlife Centre, Near the South end of the lake in the Flower Garden, Greenwich Park SE10.

SUN 1 FEB RAMBLERS.

The Deptford Round with the Blackheath group, part of Ramblers.org. Be amazed at how much you can walk, away from traffic, through delightful Deptford, including Fordham and Deptford parks, the riverside, the creek and St Pauls Church. 8km walk start time 10.30am est. finish time 1.30pm. www.ramblers.org.uk for more info.

THURS 5 FEB 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 6 FEB FAKE THACKRAY.

John Watterson presents the words and songs of Jake Thackray. Hear songs about policemen, gypsies, gorillas and a lot more. Not to be missed. 8pm. £10. Tickets via tg@pvr.co.uk or call Terry Grant on 07801 265 713. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, SE3 7SE.

ART UNTIL 11 JAN IMAGINE – EXHIBITION.

By Blackheath Art Society works by local artists. www.blackheathartsociety.org.uk. Free. 10am5pm. The upstairs gallery at Discover Greenwich, ORNC Cutty Sark Gardens, SE10 9NN.

THURS 15 JAN – 29 MAR THE COURTAULD GALLERY.

The new Gilbert & Ildiko Butler Drawings Gallery, a flexible exhibition space to showcase The Courtauld’s significant collection of over 7,000 works on paper. This will open to the public with Unseen, a showcase of lesser-known masters from the collection. 10am-6pm. See www.courtauld. ac.uk for prices. Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 0RN.

UNTIL 18 JAN CURRENT EXHIBITION.

Featured artists: Jennifer Jokhoo (Until 18 Jan). Tues–Sun, 10am–5.30pm. 020 8858 1569. Greenwich Printmakers Gallery, 1A The Market, SE10 9HZ.

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M E R IDIA N ART & DESIGN

Children of the Great War Age Exchange presents a dualscreen film and media installation by Simon Puriņš and Ivan Riches.  Private View on Wednesday 7 January, 6pm to 9pm and then the Exhibition continues until Sunday 11 January, 11am to 6pm, with film screenings starting on the hour. Children of The Great War reveals how the stories of those who took part in the war have affected the journeys their families have taken, to now and beyond. The artwork was commissioned by Age Exchange as part of a Heritage Lottery funded project. The artwork was premiered at The British Film Institute, Southbank, in October 2014. The artists will be available throughout the exhibition run to talk about the work, the making process and its context within the wider ‘Children of The Great War’ project.  www.eyesociation.org  www.ivanriches.org.uk  www.childrenofthegreatwar.org.uk

BRITAIN’S BEST POTTER

Robert Welch A Sore Head

OTHENS In 2015

The A.P.T gallery will be launching a kick-starter campaign to raise funds for an artist book by A.P.T artist-member, Robert Welch. After suffering a stroke in December 2011, Robert began working on a series of drawings whilst still in hospital, encouraged by family and friends. The artworks were shown at A.P.T in November 2013 and will form the basis of the book A ‘ Sore Head’. A Publishing Project Kickstarter Launch Reception on Thursday 15 January from 6.30 to 7.30pm.

The Greenwich Gallery, in Peyton Place, will continue to extend its cultural contribution to society and will provide space for photographers and artists to present their work.

Harold Wharf, 6 Creekside, Deptford SE8 4SA. Telephone 020 8694 8344 07754 451143.

There will be a variety of exhibitions including photography, 3D art and paintings. For current information please see

www.thegreenwichgallery.com The Greenwich Gallery Linear House, Peyton Place, London SE10 8RS

The makers of “The Great British Bake Off” are on the hunt for a new kind of talent… Do you live and breathe pottery? Fancy your chances in a nationwide talent search? Love Productions are scouring the country for experienced amateurs to early career potters, who want to share their passion with the nation! In this brand new talent search for BBC2 your entire repertoire of skills will be put the test! So, if you think you’ve got what it takes, LOVE productions want to hear from you! Contact them by: E-mail: pottery@loveproductions.co.uk Post: Pottery Team, Love Productions, 43 Eagle Street, London WC1R 4AT Tel: 020 7067 4829. Even if you are not a potter, the programme will undoubtedly get people interested in clay!

www.aptstudios.org.

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ME RID IA N CLASSIFIED

Brown & CO Solicitors

Maze Hill To place your advert in Meridian call 01322 557794

ME RID IA N LO O KING AHEAD

London City Cruise Port Greenwich

The developers of London City Cruise Port (LCCP) are resubmitting amended plans for approval, including changes to the design of the terminal itself and the offshore and onshore infrastructure. The original plans were developed and submitted in 2010 on the basis of frequent but shorter cruise ship visits, following the identification in 2009 by the GLA and London Mayor, of the need for a Central, London cruise port. Since 2010, environmental legislation has been introduced that impacts upon the cost-effectiveness of shorter cruise ship stays in London. In addition, feedback from the cruise industry has indicated its preference for using a London port as a turnaround destination (the start and finish of a cruise itinerary) thus demanding longer stays in port. Research by LCCP has confirmed that a London port is considered as a ‘marque’ destination and is of great interest to a number of luxury cruise lines for inclusion in their itineraries. However the research also showed a need to adjust the design of the terminal and the port’s infrastructure to reflect the needs of cruise ships requiring longer stays. Alongside the terminal and infrastructure adjustments, the new plans take into account the creation of a high quality destination and experience for residents, visitors and cruise passengers. The revisions address continued improvement and accessibility of walkways and streets for all; including additional green spaces, wide river walkways and further regeneration to create a lively and welcoming local area that will not only benefit cruise passengers and those visiting with them, but will also create a great place for members of the local community to spend time and watch the spectacle of cruise ships or just to enjoy panoramic views of the river.

David Margason, Managing Director of West Court Real Estate, which is developing Enderby Wharf in association with its investors, comments: “The cruise industry is enthusiastic about London City Cruise Port, and we are confident that London will become a key cruise destination. Longer stays will mean more employment and ship provisioning, resulting in cruise operators, visitors and crew spending more time and money in the locality – a move which is welcomed by local and London authorities and tourism organisations. It will make a significant economic contribution to The Royal Borough of Greenwich and it is our aim to ensure that LCCP is a jewel in the crown for the area, offering a lively and enjoyable public space which can be enjoyed by all, visitors and residents alike. We have also concluded that due to the increase in hotel stock in London and North Greenwich in particular, a hotel is not viable in this location and would not add the value required to deliver the enhanced terminal and associated infrastructure. Consequently, we asked our design team to incorporate instead, open-market and affordable residential development.” Jonathan Manser, lead architect on the project, explains: “As legislative changes are leading to the demand for turnaround cruises and longer stays, the previous design did not meet the requirements. In particular, we have increased the size of the terminal building to accommodate baggage handling for passengers embarking and disembarking and to improve the overall experience within the terminal. We have altered the access for vessel servicing as longer stays mean the cruise ships will need to load and unload stores and provisions. In response to

the brief for replacement of the hotel with residential enabling development, we have developed a design based upon taller, slim buildings with small footprints to optimise views and open space. We have also responded to a request to bring coach holding bays into the site from the access road, thus allowing the linear park featured in the recently approved Alcatel/ cathedral planning permission, to be realised.” James Blakey, of LCCP’s planning consultants Cavendish Planning, says: “Our priority has always been the regeneration of the area for the local community and so we have created a high quality environment for families that includes more open space and greenery, better access to the shoreline and river views, a playground, a park and shops for both residents and visitors. Whilst access via public transport to the port has always been good, we have improved the access and parking for coaches and have had positive discussions with river boat operators about providing additional services.” Kate O’Hara, CEO of London City Cruise Port, has an extensive background in the cruise industry and has spent the past 12 months talking to cruise businesses about building itineraries around a visit to the Royal Borough of Greenwich. She said: “There is tremendous excitement and interest from the industry in using the London City Cruise Port and providing we upgrade the terminal and infrastructure to meet their changing needs, I have no doubt that we will be welcoming some of the world’s leading cruise ships to this unique mooring on the Thames.” See More at www.londoncitycruiseport.co.uk