Meridian June 2016 ÂŁ1.00 Where Sold
Local Summer Festivals and Fairs
Your Local What, Where and When Magazine
Wetsinfor
Tick Greenwich Comedy Festival
HELLO
Festival season is finally starting to brew; the time is here to rifle through the wardrobe, dust off that straw hat, find your favourite flip-flops and check the sell by date on your suncream. We’re hoping that you’re as eager as we are to get the summer social calender sorted, so we have rounded up some local festival favourites and not-to-miss events that you simply have to be part of. Tamsyn Clark speaks to organisers, Alison and Julie ahead of Chislehurst Rocks! about what we can expect on 18 June and the unexpected way the idea first came about. While Valerie Breese takes a look at the choc-a-bloc festival line ups in and around Greenwich from GDIF to Greenwich Dances - make sure you’re part of the fun. We also have tickets to win for Greenwich Comedy Festival (which is taking place in July this year), and a family ticket to Chilled in a Field festival at the Hop Farm. Head to meridian-magazine.co.uk/win to enter now for your chance of winning. Of course, those hazy summer holidays are made up of more than just weekends, and many families struggle with juggling work, kids and keeping everyone entertained. We take a look at holiday clubs and, depending on your children’s interests, what might be most beneficial for them.
If after all that, you’re looking for a well-earned evening out, pause as you approach our food and drink section. We have tickets to win a workshop experience for two at The Learning Loaf, a beautiful exploration of the menu at The Hill where the Mediterranean meets the Ecuadorian; and a sneak peek of the newly opened Aqua Mediterranean Bar and Grill in Petts Wood along with an interview with Chef Patron, Dasos. Dasos isn’t the only character we’ve had the pleasure to interview this month. We’ve also squeezed some time in with busy mother, philanthropist and dentist/business woman, Seema, from Smile Impressions; talked interiors and flooring trends with Lordship Flooring Company’s Bella; were fascinated by how Vanessa from Health’s Angel’s spun her career in publishing on its head; then discussed affordable art with Mark from Flood Gallery... believe us when we say, that’s a lot of talking! Turn the page and join us for more on interiors, property, education, health, food, lifestyle, arts and events! And, enjoy the issue.
The Meridian Team xx
INSIDE THIS ISSUE....
Designer Socks
FESTIVALS P16
A FINE AFFAIR P27
Sock it to them! Welcome to MrD London, the sock master of London. A range of socks offering colour, sophistication and fun in bold stripes and fine patterns, the perfect gift for Father’s Day. Use promo code - meridian25 for readers’ special June offer. www.mrdlondon.com
HEALTHS ANGELS P31
WHAT TO DO P46-49
London born and bred MrD started his prolific career in fashion studying at the prestigious Saint Martin’s School of Art and then the Royal College of Art. His signature eye for detail and passion for colour and fabrics has driven MrD to create a range of socks in wonderfully versatile ranges. To win three pairs of your choice, just 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.
Meridian MAGAZINE JUNE 2016 Publisher: Joy Johnston Editor: Valerie Breese Art & Production Director: Paul McPherson Display Sales: Cheryl Voller Emma Forbes April Hartley-Watson Sarah Smith Classified Sales: April Hartley-Watson Sarah Smith Social Media Melissa Wright Contributors: Claire McKinson James Haddrell 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.
E LOV L A C O L
Chislehurst comes alive with music, entertainment and laughter when Chislehurst Rocks! See Page 19
We Love Chislehurst Chislehurst is a beautiful location on the London / Kent borders. It is the best of both worlds – London on your doorstep whilst your back door opens onto the Garden of England – the wonderful county of Kent.
Whether you live or work in Chislehurst, or are visiting for the first time, Chislehurst has so much to offer. With an eclectic mix of shops on the High Street, Belmont Parade and Royal Parade, you will be spoilt for choice.
Chislehurst has been on the map for over 1,000 years and is steeped in history. Since 1934, the Chislehurst Society has been striving to maintain the balance between preserving Chislehurst’s heritage and supporting residents’ needs.
With a plethora of gorgeous coffee shops, stop for a coffee break or why not try one of the many fabulous places to eat out, take a stroll round the ponds, or visit the iconic Chislehurst Caves.
Come and join Popchoir! Danny Williams If you love to sing, come and find out why our members love being part of Popchoir! Singing, friendship, performing, social events, laughter, travel, music, wellbeing, a new adventure and LOTS of fun! Come for a free taster and see for yourself.
At Danny Williams Plumbing (established 1979), we cover the Bromley area for plumbing, central heating, gas, bathrooms & appliances. Based in Chislehurst, we offer no call out charges and free quotations on both small and larger jobs.
Popchoir www.popchoir.com 020 8659 5464 0845 5190 890
Specialists in energy efficient heating systems, with competitive pricing and 24-hour emergency call outs; all work is fully guaranteed. Quality workmanship Fully insured Fully accredited for: Gas safe, Energy efficiency, CIPHE
Rehearsing at: Chislehurst Methodist Church Prince Imperial Road BR7 5LX and across London
Danny Williams Plumbing 0208 467 2451, 07775 916 357 (24 Hrs) www.dannywilliamsplumbing.co.uk
Trustees of Chislehurst Commons The trustees of Chislehurst Commons run a lean organisation, with just two full-time keepers for the 180 acres. Bromley Council covers one-third of the Commons’ running costs with an annual grant. The remaining two-thirds of the budget is covered by donations from local people. The trustees have responsibility for managing the woods, grasslands and ponds. The Friends of the Commons, the donors and the conservation volunteers who work alongside our keepers, provide our life-blood. Why not become a Friend of the Commons?
Find full details at: www.chislehurstcommons.uk www.meridian-magazine.co.uk
M E R IDIA N PRO MOT IO N
Love your cat Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity Cats Protection’s vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats Protection Greenwich is part of a national network of over 250 volunteer-run branches and 32 adoption centres, which together help almost 200,000 cats and kittens every year. In addition to finding new homes for the UK’s thousands of unwanted cats and kittens, Cats Protection runs a voucher scheme to encourage people to neuter their cats. Cats Protection Greenwich will provide vouchers which cover the full cost of neutering at any veterinary surgery. Absolutely any and every cat owner can benefit from our vouchers as they are not means-tested. We believe in helping people to take responsibility for neutering their cats regardless of personal income, as we would love to reduce the unwanted cat population in our area. Many cat owners don’t realise that as well as preventing unwanted pregnancies, neutering your cat will vastly improve his or her quality of life. FIV (feline equivalent of HIV) and FeLV (feline
leukaemia) are endemic in most urban areas and are contracted from bite wounds; both viruses result in terminal illness. Un-neutered toms are particularly vulnerable to these diseases as they fight each other over females and territory, but female cats can contract them too, as they often get bitten by males during mating. Un-neutered cats can very easily become strays. Your un-neutered tom could easily wander so far in search of females that he becomes lost and unable to find his way home. Your female cat could be chased by toms when she’s in season and then end up as one of the many lost, pregnant cats who have to give birth to their kittens outdoors – the lucky ones get found and taken in by animal charities, the others struggle to feed themselves and keep their kittens safe. If you have an un-neutered cat, or know someone who has, PLEASE call their helpline on 0208 853 8666 and ask for a neutering voucher. Their vouchers cover the borough of Greenwich and many surrounding postcodes.
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Floored!
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We talk to Arabella Budd from Lordship Flooring Company on how flooring is the key element of any room and how it can make a real impact... Lordship Flooring Company is an independent run flooring company, owned and run by husband and wife team Glenn and Arabella Budd and Derek Ashbridge with branches in Blackheath and East Dulwich. As the local area changed and developed into a more eclectic community, the company needed to specialise as their clients started to concentrate more on the interior of their homes and how they reflected their personalities. Over time, the company organically grew and earned a reputation for offering out of the ordinary flooring and specialist products that mainstream suppliers shy away from such as totally natural Marmoleum, which can now be laser cut to make custom patterns which are popular in hallways, replicating Victorian tiles but warmer underfoot and they won’t crack. They are only one of 12 retailers in the UK able to offer this service. Glenn started out fitting over 20 years ago to become a Master Fitter. His expertise and knowledge allows him to push the boundaries when clients request unusual, bespoke flooring solutions. He and Derek oversee their teams of fitters who are all experienced experts in their particular flooring fields, and includes two father and son teams who have worked with the company for a number of years. As proof of their expertise and reputation, the British company, Amtico have selected Lordship Flooring as one of their official installers and sites for their Digital Advance Room System, which uses computer-aided design to show images of your room with a range of flooring. Half of their sales staff have at one time been fitters, so are able to offer real, impartial advice on technical matters and help to select flooring based on the client’s individual taste and practical needs. Arabella points out that their clients are cost aware but customised floors don’t need to cost the earth. “We like to ensure that our wide range offers our customer the choice of traditional coverings or to have something a little different from the norm. Whether it’s a small bedroom or a five storey bespoke stair runner, our focus is on personalised, old fashioned customer service.” As well as carpets, wood, rubber, cork and everything in between, they have the largest sample collection of woven runners in London and as Arabella says ‘these have a specialist fitting method where it’s almost as if the stairs are upholstered, they can be finished around corners with a hand sewn mitre which looks fabulous.
Arabella with a completed bespoke stair runner design for a local client
Other services include floorboard sanding and staining, bespoke rugs, binding and whipping, which they do in house. What’s trending in flooring? The current trend is for the restoration period with a modern twist. Grey is still very popular, as are a lot of the Farrow and Ball colours. opulent silk effect carpets, raw materials like bamboo and cork and patterns are making a comeback especially retro designs. Visit the Lordship Flooring Company website for brilliant advice, ideas and information on all kinds of flooring.
Amtico is a perfect choice for kitchens
Woven stair runner samples in the Blackheath shop
www.lordshipflooring.com Tel: 020 8852 8109 Lordship Flooring Company Brigade St, Blackheath London SE3 0TW And 129-131 Lordship Lane SE22 8HU TEL: 020 8693 8728
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ME R IDIA N PRO MOT IO N
Cyberfraud Refers to any type of deliberate deception for unfair or unlawful gain that occurs online.
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Sharmila Patel highlights computer security developments at Beverley Morris & Co. With the continuing increased threat of cyber fraud, on 11 May 2016, Beverley Morris & Co. was awarded the Government’s Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation for the measures they have put in place to guard against cyber attacks. The Cyber Essentials Scheme was set up by the Government in response to the several major cyber attacks that have taken place over the last few years and is part of the Government’s £860 million National Cyber Security Programme. Barclays, BAE Systems and HP are some of the major organisations that also have the accreditation. The Government believes that the cyber measures identified in the scheme will stop up to 80% of computer security breaches by eliminating four out of five of the most common security vulnerabilities. There are two forms of accreditation - Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. The latter involves more rigorous testing which is independently tested. The accreditation is just one of a number of measures Beverley Morris & Co. has put in place to guard against fraud. To find out more, please contact Angela Stanton or Sharmila Patel at Beverley Morris & Co. on 020 8852 4433.
Greenwich is Getting Ready for the Summer of Festivals Greenwich will be buzzing! Join in the fun at London’s largest outdoor arts festival, full of street theatre, dance, cabaret, art installations and music events for all ages.
GDIF Opening night. The House: A specially commissioned spectacle marking the 400th anniversary of The Queen’s House, and its forthcoming reopening this year.
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Here are some of the many exciting highlights... Greenwich+Docklands International Festival From Friday 24 June - Sat 2 July This year, Greenwich+Docklands International Festival celebrates its 21st birthday! GDIF was founded by its Artistic Director, Bradley Hemmings, in 1996 and is produced by the charitable organisation Greenwich+Docklands Festivals (GDF). The festival organises over 200 performances during 10 days, which are attended by more than 80,000 people each year. The annual festival features a lively mix of free outdoor arts, theatre, street arts, dance and music events. Programme of events at www.festival.org Opening night The House: A specially commissioned spectacle marking the 400th anniversary of The Queen’s House and its forthcoming reopening this year, will feature dance, digital projection, music and pyrotechnics, with Olivier award-winning, Sharon D Clarke. Directed by GDIF’s Bradley Hemmings, and featuring the talents of BAFTA award-winning video artist, Tal Rosner, multi award-winning composer, Dan Jones; and boundary-breaking Avant Garde Dance and German outdoor theatre company, Pan.Optikum. Time: 10-10.40pm. Tickets/ Booking: £15, £12 concessions. FREE standing places on the day. Closing night GDIF’s afternoon Ignite! programme in Woolwich is followed by this year’s finale: a spectacular fusion of percussion and awesome fireworks from the French company, Les Commandos Percu and the Spanish street theatre group, Deabru Beltzak. Seemingly out of nowhere, drummers march towards each other in a wild parade which culminates in a theatrically staged fusion of percussion and pyrotechnics, bringing this year’s festival to an awesome climax. Time: 10-11pm. FREE. www.festival.org
Greenwich Music Time Tuesday 5 - Sunday 10 July Greenwich Music Time returns to the World Heritage-listed site of The Old Royal Naval College from 5 -10 July, with a stellar line-up featuring an eclectic array of star names from around the world. For more info and to buy tickets visit: www.greenwichmusictime.co.uk or call: 0844 499 9999.
Foodies Festival Friday 8 - Sunday 10 July Blackheath can look forward to a taste-bud-tickling weekend this summer, as Foodies Festival comes to town, bringing with it a lip-smacking line-up of foodie fun and the South heats of the British Street Food Awards. Across the three day festival, visitors can feast on signature dishes served from street food vendors and vote for their favourite to win the People’s Choice Award. London’s culinary elite and celebrity chef, Rosemary Shrager, will be cooking in the Chef’s Theatre and celebrity chef, Aldo Zilli will launch his street food range serving Italian burritos. There will be a focus on Brazilian street food on Street Food Avenue, with more award-winning producers than ever before. Enjoy champagne, wine and craft beer master classes and, not for the faint-hearted, a new bug-eating competition, as well as the famous Chilli-Eating Challenge. Local bands will also be competing to win the Unsigned Music Award.
Greenwich Comedy Festival 2016
26 - 31 July The magnificent Greenwich Comedy Festival jumps forward to July this year, to bring you six summer nights of award-winning comedy in the stunning surroundings of the National Maritime Museum. This year’s comedy extravaganza presents another blistering line-up of comedy greats. Tickets on sale now www.greenwichcomedyfestival.co.uk
Greenwich Dances Friday 17 June – Thursday 30 June Get involved with the biggest Greenwich Dances yet, as everyone is invited to join in at dance events across the Royal Borough of Greenwich Acclaimed dance artist, Francesco Scavetta brings his worldwide hit ‘Surprised Body Project’ to the UK for the first time. Greenwich Dances will get Woolwich moving with an outdoor celebration of dance at General Gordon Square, Woolwich. Candoco Dance Company celebrate their 25th birthday with a bold and exciting cabaret – ‘In the Mix’ – at The Borough Hall in partnership with Greenwich Dance, curated by Candoco Dance Company’s Youth Advisory Group, Cando2. Renowned contemporary dance artists, Jan Martens and Hannah Buckley, present their solo works at Greenwich Dance for the first time. And Bethan Peters, choreographer in residence for Royal Museums Greenwich, works with a cast drawn from the local community for her latest work at the National Maritime Museum. Visit: www.greenwichdance.org.uk for the full programme.
www.meridian-magazine.co.uk
M E RID IA N PRO PERT Y
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BOYNE ROAD SE13 £1,200,000 A beautiful Edwardian house with 5 bedrooms over 3 floors. This lovely home offers fantastic flexibility should you wish to alter the living space. Many period features have been retained such as the beautiful fireplaces and full height cellar. Lovingly maintained to a high standard by the current owners. EPC rating D
BLACKHEATH - £630,000 - £650,000.
Tucked away just off Lee Road, Blackheath this immaculately presented, 3 bedroom popular ‘Gough Cooper’ house has been loved and cared for by the current owner for 20 years. Looks can be deceiving! This property offers spacious accommodation with plenty of natural light. EPC rating C
Ask The Right Price! The market is giving mixed messages at present. Some properties are getting plenty of interest whilst others are not getting as much as one would expect. It’s probably a combination of the hangover from the recent second home stamp duty increase and the impending Brexit referendum. Good advice on the asking price is key, so getting an honest opinion from a professional estate agent is more important than ever.
CHISLEHURST – £400,000
CHAIN FREE. Refurbished to a high specification this 2 double bedroom, 2 bathroom first floor apartment in an imposing detached Edwardian house. Recently refurbished and redesigned it is offered in such good order. Close to Royal Parade with its boutique shops and restaurants, and Chislehurst station is just a mile away. EPC rating D
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 – OIR of £3,000,000
Two years of reinvention and reconstruction has produced a wonderful home with a central swimming pool. The 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom living accommodation is arranged around the pool and an atrium style opening glass roof above lets in the natural light. Triple garaging and a games room/au pair’s suite. EPC rating D
Established 1996
CHISLEHURST – £760,000
Well presented 4 bedroom detached family home with a good sized square kitchen and utility room. Separate dining room and double glazed conservatory. 2 bathrooms one of which is ensuite to the main bedroom. Lawned garden with patio and summer house. Parking and with garage. 3/4 of a mile from Elmstead Woods station. EPC rating B 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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Chislehurst Rocks! Saturday 18 June, will see Chislehurst come alive with music, entertainment and laughter when Chislehurst Rocks! takes over the Rec. Tamsyn Clark met up with event organisers, Alison Stammers and Julie Covill to find out more Alison and Julie are very quick to point out that they are not the only two people behind Chislehurst Rocks! There is a very committed group of nine volunteers who each work hard to create this festival. Their humility is striking but clearly these two hard-working ladies are passionate and dedicated volunteers who love what they do. My first question is simply: Why? What makes them want to do this each year? They explain that the event has three aims – firstly, a way to bring their community together, a showpiece for local bands and an opportunity for people to enjoy Chislehurst Recreation Ground – a wonderful space that covers 37 acres of the town. They hope this small festival will appeal to all ages and they carefully craft the music so it encompasses all music tastes. From reggae to rap, folk to rock n’ roll, cover bands to country music; they hope there is something for everyone. Alongside the music acts, they will have performing arts groups featuring local theatre school, All the Arts, and Rock Choir: a feel-good adult rock, pop and Motown community choir. They will also have a wandering magician and free workshops for children to attend, including Monkey Music and Zebadee Performing Arts. Plus, families can enjoy the free soft play area, photo booths, rodeo bull rides and the usual dose of fairground attractions. And there will be stalls a-plenty; offering food and drink with local pub, The Queens Head offering beer & cider and purple fizz. This community event is entirely run not for profit and each year the volunteers work tirelessly to fundraise to cover the production costs. This year, they have been successful in securing a significant grant from the Big Lottery Fund A ‘ wards for All’ programme to help stage the event. Whilst this is fantastic, they still need further funds. They rely on securing corporate sponsorship, plus they have created the £100 club – asking local businesses and individuals to donate £100 to help towards the costs of the event.
They want to keep this event free for the local community and securing these additional funds is vital for the future of the event. The committed group of volunteers behind this event are better known as the Friends of Chislehurst Recreation Ground (FOCRG). They have recently become a charitable organisation and they have been the driving force behind the many improvements at the Rec. In fact, since they came together in 2011, they have raised in excess of £118,000 to deliver the playground (in association with Bromley Council), new play equipment, the fitness trail, commission unique wood carvings as well as putting on Chislehurst Rocks! This funding has come from many larger charities but a large proportion has come from local organisation, The Chislehurst Society. What I love about this festival is how these individuals all came together: Dogs. Yep, that’s right. They are nearly all dog owners who are frequently using Rec. They got talking, got inspired and started meeting at each other’s houses to see how they could improve their local beloved Rec. They were also lucky to find one dog owner, Rachelle Harte who owns her own events company (Lollipop Events) which made them brave enough to make the leap of faith. With council budgets becoming ever tighter, this group of volunteers works tirelessly to fill the gap and improve the town for all to benefit. We are lucky to have the likes of Alison and Julie in our community. The Friends of the Rec (FOCRG) cannot wait to welcome you to their FREE event on Saturday 18 June, but why not go the extra mile and make a donation to this wonderful cause so we can protect our green spaces for future generations. For more information on the event and to make a donation, please visit: www.focrg.org.uk
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ME R IDIA N HEALT H PRO MOTI O N
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What is a Specialist Dentist? You may be aware of orthodontists or oral surgeons, but what is a prosthodontist, periodontist or an endodontist? Specialist dentistry is a relatively new concept. In the late 1990s, the specialist lists were set up in the UK by the General Dental Council (GDC), dentistry’s regulatory body. This was so the public would know who had undergone the appropriate training to deal with more complex dental problems. It is similar to the difference between your general medical practitioner (GP) and a cardiologist or orthopaedic surgeon. Your GP has the training and experience to deal with a wide range of medical problems but the specialist is there for when you have a specific problem and need to see someone with more in-depth knowledge and experience in a narrower field.
So you visit your general dental practitioner (GDP) for regular dentistry but you see an endodontist if you have complex tooth anatomy or a tooth pain that will not settle. A periodontist is a gum specialist and their area of expertise is in treating and preventing bleeding gums, tooth loosening and tooth loss.
More and more, people are realising how important their teeth are to their quality of life so are choosing to do what they can to save them for as long as possible. Your GDP has great diagnostic skills and knows the specialists that are there to help and will refer appropriately when the need arises.
A prosthodontist replaces missing teeth. This can be with implants, bridges or dentures. They also deal with the bite. Many people find that teeth that were filled in the 1950s, 60s or 70s have worked well for years but are now breaking. Sometimes they can be saved; sometimes not. Problems with the way the bite has worn down over a number of years are central to this and this is where a prosthodontist can help.
At the end of October 2015 there were 40,953 dentists registered with the GDC in the UK. Of these, 277 were endodontists, 368 were periodontists and 450 were prosthodontists. Finn Dental Specialists, Backwoods, Kelsey Lane, Beckenham BR3 3NE Tel: 020 8658 1230 www.finndentalspecialists.com
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Healths Angels Vanessa Spiers of Health’s Angels explains how her own experiences of alternative health treatment changed her life How did you become involved in complementary healthcare? I worked on Health and Fitness Magazine for over 12 years so was exposed to many different alternative health treatments and was fortunate enough to travel to some incredible wellness clinics and spas to experience an array of different therapies. When I discovered RejuvaDetox it completely changed my life! In the 4 weeks I was on the programme it literally cured me of my IBS that I had been plagued with for years and I lost 15lbs and 27 inches in 28days- I had so much energy and clarity I decided to give up my 20 year career in publishing and I bought into the Rejuva business, and the rest, as they say, is history. When did you start the Health’s Angels Clinic? Our first therapy room was opened in 1999 where we had one rejuvaDetox machine and we then grew from there expanding into sports clubs, health centres and now have our own health clinic with three treatment rooms- all of which house Rejuvadetox as it is so popular. Which natural therapies/treatments do you offer at your clinic? We have exclusively offered RejuvaDetox in the area for over 17 years, which is a life transformational and life changing wellness and weight loss system. It detoxifies the body and breaks down toxins and hard fats, and erases many health conditions as well as inches and stubborn fats. We also offer treatments in electro-lymphatic drainage, kinesiology, acupuncture, massage and many other natural therapies. You offer accredited courses for therapists, can you explain more? We offer foundation training in a natural form of healthcare called Kinesiology. Kinesiology uses simple and painless muscle testing as a type of body language to communicate potential problems and solutions to the client and practitioner. It is non-invasive, drug-free and enormously empowering. Some experts are even branding it ‘the medicine of the future.’ Our fully accredited training is open to everyone (even if they are brand new to healthcare) as well as therapists who want to add to their skill set, increase their client base and generate more income. Which is the most popular treatment at the moment and what can clients expect in terms of results? RejuvaDetor is our flagship and the most popular of all therapies as it can help significantly with so many health issues from stress and fatigue to MS ME, Fibromyalgia, hormonal issues, digestive problems, skin conditions, arthritis, it goes on and on! We have seen so many clients come off long-term medication (with GP consent) – if the client has weight to lose then there is also the guarantee of 10-14lbs loss of toxic fat at least in 4 weeks and about 17 inchesif not, we offer free treatments. www.healths-angels.com 01322 555600 23 Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1LW
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Smile Impressions Experience dental care with a difference
Seema Sharma, a local mother, qualified dentist, businesswoman, consultant and philanthropist, somehow found time to talk to Meridian about the opening of her latest dental practice, in Blackheath.
This is Seema’s second local dental practice and part of her Smile Impressions group of dental practices offering a mixed NHS and private funded dental care.
As the CEO of Smile Impressions, Seema’s role has transitioned towards management in recent years and she has just completed a two-year Executive MBA programme at Imperial Business School.
It all started when she qualified as a dentist from Guy’s Hospital, in 1989. She practiced in East London for 20 years and won several business awards for the rapid growth of her dental practice in Docklands, including one presented by Richard Branson. In 2009 she brought her much admired ethos of holistic and preventive dental care to South East London, establishing Smile Impressions with a dental practice in Lee. She went on to sell her Docklands practice to concentrate on developing this practice, juggling her career with her young family.
Seema is particularly passionate about preventive dentistry and minimising future treatment which she says is possible with regular visits to the dentist and hygienist, good dental hygiene and, of course, avoiding a high sugar diet.
Despite her busy schedule, Seema still found time to take part in a special one-off overseas episode in the Channel 4 Secret Millionaire series. The programme recruits successful people to go undercover in deprived areas and give financial help. Obviously moved by what she saw in Dharavi, a slum area in Mumbai, Seema went a step further in 2011 and founded her charity, Child Action, which supports local grassroots charities to give children the chance to escape lifelong poverty through education and empowering opportunities.
At each practice she has gathered a team of dentists, some with special interests, who cover root canal treatment, teeth whitening, teeth straightening and implants, and hygienists, so she can create a centre of excellence; covering all the services required by patients and even referrals from other practices. At the Blackheath practice she has installed an OPG, full mouth X-ray machine for the more complex treatments, like implants. Once out of reach of most people, implants are now a viable alternative to dentures. Seema explains that dentures are becoming a thing of the past and implants are not restricted by age - they have patients into their 70s under going implant treatment.
environment that helps keep patient stress levels down. With modern anaesthetics and technology, dentistry is virtually pain free. Patients requiring long treatments will have the distraction of a flat screen TV at Blackheath, too. Seema likes to start young and encourages children to see the advantages of looking after their teeth with ‘fun days’ at the Lee practice,. Plus, extended times are available to fit in with patients’ lifestyles (Saturday morning at Blackheath and late nights on Monday at Lee). And finally, each patient has a care plan that supports their personalised service and a membership scheme is available to help spread the cost of regular treatments. You never get a second chance to create a first impression. www.smileimpressions.com 020 3621 2260 257 Shooters Hill Road Blackheath, London SE3 8UN
How does Smile Impressions add that something extra? Seema and her friendly teams have created, at both practices, a Zen-like, holistic and gentle
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First Hand Experiences Holiday and after school clubs explained by Louisa Baker What is the company philosophy? We have a very clear ethos which is that genuine first hand experiences are the foundations for all children’s future learning. Talking about the seasons on a screen or about fruit on a healthy eating chart pales in comparison to actually hunting for autumnal seeds in the woods or picking fruit at the farm. After School and Holiday clubs are a popular market, how does FHE differ from the others? Each week is themed allowing it to be explored through a completely holistic approach. This means during our “Oh Taste and See’ themed week for example, we will not only pick fruit and veg at the farm but we might paint it, make a tart from it and sell it at our market on Friday which the children have created themselves. We also dramatise and celebrate our experiences through our specifically written songs and scripts ensuring that the learning experience is remembered and treasured for many years to come. Our attitude to food also sets us apart from other camps. We decided right from the beginning that we didn’t t feel right having children out about in nature where at times having a picnic meant a sad sandwich and a packet of crisps. We promote healthy whole food that is seasonal, imaginative and tasty! As well having their pack lunches prepared by our camp chef the children will make their own lunch twice a week and a snack each day such as raw balls, fresh lemonade or a mean green juice! Parents will be concerned about who looks after their children, how do you allay those worries? In today’s society there is an obsession with trying to achieve a ‘zero-risk’ world and we feel this is severely limiting children’s freedom and growing sense of independence. We therefore aim to provide children with the freedom
to explore the natural world within a controlled environment. We of course risk assess all our activities and excursions and all our staff are DBS checked with a first aider at every camp. What type of experiences do you offer children? Where to start, I suppose some of our favourite experiences are cob building, mud larking, crabbing, meeting birds of prey, milking cows, fruit picking, foraging and bird watching... With summer being such a long period of consecutive camps we have recently found new and wonderful ways to be creative. For example last year we had our first immersive theatre camp based in Richmond Park- secret cinema for kids if you like! That same holistic approach to the week meant the children found themselves making honey cake to entice Red Riding Hood to the woods and a wolf catcher to trap the Big Bad Wolf. He turned out to be a lovely chap in the end! www.firsthandexperiences.co.uk
Barracudas
“Giving every child such an amazing experience they can’t wait to come back!” Barracudas children’s activity camp offers peace of mind for working parents during the summer holidays. After a successful 2015 we are extremely excited to kick off the 2016 with over 35+ locations operating this year. With action packed programmes and a choice of varied activities; including archery, swimming, fencing, motor sports, arts & crafts, dance & drama, we have plenty to keep your children entertained. As well as all the above activities we have fantastic roaming equipment that visits camps including our bungee run, rodeo bull and giant inflatable assault course. From 4.5-16 years. The best staff:child ratios for any comparable provider and extended hours from 8am-6pm Locations include Bromley, Chislehurst and Sevenoaks Our popular camps sell out fast, to secure your child’s place call us on: 0845 123 5299 or visit www.barracudas.co.uk
Blackheath Prep Finalists at Songs of Praise Junior School Choir of the Year Once on stage at Sheffield’s impressive City Hall, Mrs Graham, their Musical Director, coaxed Blackheath Preparatory School’s Chamber Choir to life. Their impeccable harmonies impressed the judges, Katherine Jenkins, Connie Fisher and Ken Burton, whose comments reflected the excellent standard of singing the children achieved. The calibre of all three finalists was exceptionally high and although not overall winners Blackheath Prep went home with many well-deserved compliments from the judges ringing in their ears. Blackheath Prep Chamber Choir’s performances in the semifinal and final of the BBC Songs of Praise Junior School Choir of the Year 2016 can be downloaded from BBC iPlayer. www.meridian-magazine.co.uk
ME R IDIA N LIFEST YLE
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A fine affair Don’t be left scratching your head when it’s up to you to organise that big awards dinner, your wedding anniversary or Aunt Mabel’s surprise 70th birthday. Claire McKinson finds the best local venues.
Neptune Court, National Maritime Museum When you’re arranging an event, regardless of party size or the occasion, you want your efforts to make a lasting impression. You’ll want your guests to have a great time from the start, for the atmosphere to be just right and for everyone to leave having thoroughly enjoyed themselves. All of which are much easier to achieve if you nail the venue.
Team building
The leavers’ prom
They’ve worked hard, done you proud and they are finally growing up, so the occasion should rightly be marked somewhere exceptional. For many students, it may be the first time they’ve attended an event without their parents and, as a young adult, it’s a rite of passage.
• Greenwich Yacht Club - A suntrap by day,
How many of you have been on team building exercises and absolutely dreaded them; cringing at every moment and willing for the day to be done? Don’t be put off, team building days have a real impact on staff wellbeing, productivity and positivity – if they are done right.
a twinkling beacon by night. There’s plenty of room for busting out the dance moves, and fantastic river views across the city for all those shameless selfies. www.greenwichyachtclub.co.uk
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The surprise party
Devonport House – With team building specialists on hand to help you create your ideal event; say you want an interactive treasure hunt across Greenwich, a RIB boat ride up the Thames and champagne cocktails afterwards – pfffh...easy! www.devervenues.co.uk
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Sail Royal Greenwich – From exclusive cruises to deck parties, be part of the biggest nautical event in the Thames’ calendar and take in some wonderful river sights while enjoying a high tea or glass of bubbles, aboard a stunning tall ship. (September 15 -18). www.sailroyalgreenwich.co.uk
Whether it’s a 18th, a 60th, or a big wedding anniversary, who doesn’t relish in the excitement of a surprise party? Chances are you’ll have a mix of people coming along, so you’ll have to please different tastes, but the main thing is to remember the personality at the centre of the day.
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Trafalgar Tavern – Glamour, history, balconies that perch over the river. There is so much about this venue that makes it the place to scream surprise at your unsuspecting partner, friend or family member. www.trafalgertavern.co.uk
What about the person who wouldn’t want a traditional party? How about Murder Mystery dinner at the Clarendon Hotel? Dinner and accommodation is included, and we’d recommend staying for their splendid afternoon tea before heading home, too. www.clarendonhotel.com
The corporate dinner
Yes, everyone will be expecting the ceremony, but there’s no need to make it stuffy. Drop the pomp to lift the atmosphere and get the very best out of everyone on the evening. Surprise them with somewhere unexpected.
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Neptune Court, National Maritime Museum – The exhibition pieces on the Lower Deck made great conversation starters and will give your guests something to gaze at before heading to the high-ceilinged Upper Deck for the main event. www.rmg.co.uk
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Admiral’s House -This lovingly restored venue is reminiscent of an elegant town house. Set over two floors, joined by a beautiful period staircase, and topped off with views of the Thames. www.venuehire@ornc.org Whatever event is on your to-do list, most venues will include a team of specialists to guide you on how to get the very best out of your event. They’ll also have contacts for everything from caterers to DJs, to taxis to get everyone safely home.
www.meridian-magazine.co.uk
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Day delegate hire at The Trafalgar Tavern An exclusive venue located in Greenwich overlooking the river Thames.
With an abundance of natural day light from the floor to ceiling glass windows, traditional décor and state-of-the-art technology, the ante room and gallery at the Trafalgar Tavern provides the perfect environment to guarantee a productive and successful meeting or conference. Organiser Arrival On arrival you will be greeted by one of our dedicated team members who will check in any coats and bags in to the cloakroom before being directed to your meeting room. Absorb the breath-taking views whilst sipping a freshly brewed hot beverage of your choice. The operations team will assist you with any technical assistance you may require and will ensure a smooth running of the day. Delegates Arrival Your delegates will be greeted to the venue in the same way, before being shown to the meeting room where the aroma of freshly baked pastries and tea and coffee will welcome your guests. The configuration of the room will enable all delegates to enjoy a cup of coffee and one of the assortments of morning goodies, whilst admiring the London skyline, and prepare for the meeting ahead. The Meeting Host your meeting in this venue without interruption. We can produce any kind of set up suitable for you to ensure a flawless and productive meeting. Mid-morning break – enjoy another pick-me-up coffee, or juice, with a selection of your favourite biscuits at a suggested time of 10.30am Lunch – either enjoy a relaxed working buffet style lunch served in the main room or break away to where a freshly prepared 2-course seated lunch will be served. Afternoon Tea – the final break to see your delegates though to the end of the day, more refreshments and a selection of cakes will be served at approximately 3.30pm For any further information, to arrange a viewing or to book your meeting now, please contact our dedicated Sales Manager on: 020 8858 2437 The Trafalgar Tavern, Park Row, Greenwich, London SE10 9NW
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ME RID IA N LOV E LO CAL EAT
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Hello, Petts Wood Aqua’s outstanding reputation for food and service continues to grow with each new opening
Chef Patron, Dasos Charalambou, has used his impressive culinary flare and incredible eye for design with his latest acquisition in Petts Wood, which now gives him a total of five restaurants and he shows no signs of stopping there. His catering career started with Westminster Catering School and followed with Dasos working his way up from commis chef to executive souschef in some of London’s finest hotels. In 2009, he transferred his culinary expertise from central London to suburbia and took on the Galu Mediterranean Bar & Grill in leafy Nork in Banstead, Surrey; followed by the opening of the first Aqua Meze bar & Grill restaurant, in Croydon. This was his launch pad and since then he has opened branches in Bromley, Blackheath and now Petts Wood. Although Dasos has had no formal training in interior design, he has designed the interior for each of his restaurants. His flair for design stems from his culinary artistry and natural ability, which allows him to express himself and lends something special to each project. In the restaurant business he’s a leader, and not a follower. His previous designs for Blackheath and Bromley were chic and
stylish whilst he has created a refreshing palette of colours for his latest project that really works well together for the latest restaurant.
menu is £15 for two courses and £18 for three courses. One of the highlights of Aqua’s menu is its 50% off all steaks on Monday evenings.
The new restaurant, on the site of the former restaurant Trenchermen’s, in Station Square, has under gone a five-month refurbishment. The white washed walls have points of interest with wall planters of green foliage inspired by designer, Patrick Blanc. On-trend copper lighting, from large opulent clusters to the over table down light, adds warmth and a touch of glamour. Upholstered seating in a range of colours from pale mustard, aubergine and sage green create a fresh look and Italian tiling adds the Mediterranean touch.
Aqua has an outstanding reputation for food and service, Dasos oversees that all his restaurants serve carefully sourced meat, game and fish, and all the beef is British and dry aged for 28 days.
With the open terrace at the front of the restaurant, it will be the perfect place for al fresco dinning this summer. With more than 20 years of expertise and his Greek heritage, Dasos has created a contemporary fusion of Greek, Italian and French cuisine, creating modern Mediterranean dishes. His comprehensive a la carte menu covers all corners and is competitively priced. The set lunch menu Monday to Friday, with two courses is £12 and three courses for £15, while the set dinner
Everything is made from scratch and cooked on the premises, unlike many high street chains where the trend is towards pre-cooked food. “When we offer freshly prepared and freshly cooked food, it’s exactly that, and the furthest a dish travels is from the kitchen to the table”, says Dasos. We asked where he saw the business in five years time, he answered that he’s looking to add more restaurants to his established group, perhaps another five! Aqua Mediterranean Bar & Grill The Estate Office Station Square, Petts Wood Kent BR5 1LZ 01689 666220 pettswood@aquabarandgrill.co.uk
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Al fresco dining Make the most of the warm weather
The Learning Loaf Baking Academy Terrazza on the Thames, Columbia Restaurant, Rotherhithe, Docklands The phrase al fresco is borrowed from Italian for ‘in the cool [air]’, but Italians instead use the phrases ‘fuori or all’aperto’, as in Italian, the expression al fresco usually refers to spending time in jail! Dining al fresco is one of life’s simple pleasures and the best way to while away the time. Although we may not always be blessed with the best weather, we do like to stay positive and make the most of it...while it lasts. For those looking to recreate their Mediterranean break why not try the al fresco dining or cocktails at sunset on the Terrazza on the Thames, Columbia restaurant, Rotherhithe (take the small ferry from Canary wharf pier). Or catch some rays while dining in the garden at the Hill, or Aqua’s outdoor terrace at Petts Wood. Add a lively and enjoyable dimension to dining and take it outdoors. Buenos Aires Café loves being right in the heart of Greenwich and are proud to be one of the few places in town that has a garden,
in which you can enjoy secluded al fresco dining throughout what we hope will turn out to be a fantastic summer. They also have a lovely sunny garden room to enjoy pizzas, pasta, steaks and chicken and lots of other goodies cooked on our famous Josper BBQ. The garden room is also proving to be the perfect venue for their popular Argentinian wine-tastings & buffet suppers – the next of which is on June 23 at 6.30pm. www.buenosairescafe.co.uk 0208 858 9172 Buenos Aires Café, 15 Nelson Rd, Greenwich, London SE10 9JB
Works ho for two p
During our hands-on workshops, run by Graham Penn - founder of The Honest Loaf Bakery, you will explore the journey from flour to finished loaf. No prior baking experience is necessary, just enthusiasm and a desire to make real bread! From learning how to make pizza dough to English buns, the new evening workshops are great for busy people. Held weekdays from 6:30pm to 9:30pm at Bentham House, 2-4 Station Way, Royal Arsenal SE18, the workshops cost from £65 per person, can accommodate up to six people and include light refreshments. And, if you want to develop your team, learn new or improve existing skills, The Learning Loaf can provide tailored corporate days in both Charlton Manor and Bentham House. To find out more about any of the workshops and book visit: www.thelearningloaf.com WIN! One lucky reader can win a place for two people to join The Learning Loaf on an evening workshop. 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
Maze Hill
Al Fresco Dining at The Hill Restaurant With a taste of authentic Latin America food
Just a year ago, the brothers at The Hill restaurant, Andres and Alyvar Villamagua unveiled the garden mural, painted by their father, a well-known Ecuadorian artist. Twelve months on and the garden has undergone a make over, that has seen the wooden decking replaced by terracotta tiles, adding an authentic feel. There is now more space for diners and the surrounding borders of flowers and herbs give a Mediterranean aroma in the evening air. The crowning glory is the much talked about mural that adds the focal point to the garden, with its Andean skyline and distinct Calla lilies, the vibrant colours brighten even a dull day. The Hill menu is Mediterranean with an Latin twist and popular dishes from the main menu include the Peruvian speciality Ceviche Pervano: white fish, marinated in lime juice, onion, coriander and chilli; light and tangy and traditional paella, perfect for summer evenings. With memories of holidays past, the Tapas menu is always popular and has all the favourites including: Gambas sautÊed tiger prawns with garlic and chilli, Bruschetta-grilled ciabatta topped with tomato, basil, garlic and olive oil, Empanadas de carne
-typical Latin American baked pastry, filled with beef, grilled octopus, wine chorizo sausage
 and the old favourite, Patatas Bravas-fried potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce.
Their specials menu adds more choice as they change the dishes weekly and include: King scallops pan fried topped with Serrano ham and a white wine sauce, Empanada de espinacasspinach and goat cheese encased in pastry, and typical from the Northern coast of Ecuador, Encocado de pescado-slow cook haddock with coconut, fresh tomatoes, bell pepper and coriander served with rice. All the produce is sourced locally and delivered daily, ensuring that the dishes are freshly cooked. A new addition for those that like a cold beer on a warm summer evening The Hill has now added craft beers to the bar and include: Portobello London Pilsner -an unashamedly traditional lager in the Pilsner style and Curious IPA - a powerfully hoppy India Pale Ale from Kent. Plus regular Latin beers, Eusque, Peru and Quilmes, Argentina and a comprehensive European and South American wine list. Friday and Saturday nights the restaurant fills with the sounds of Latin American music from local guitarist, Steve Mac. The Hill restaurant has become a popular venue for functions and particularly wedding receptions. www.thehillgreenwich.com 020 8691 3626 89 Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8SE.
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The Flood Gallery - Affordable Art Posters are special, collectable yet affordable for music fans Opened five years ago by Chris Marksberry, The Flood Gallery is a boutique gallery store specialising in contemporary gig posters, movie posters & art prints and a lot more. Inspired by the artwork of the gig posters on sale at the South by Southwest Music Festival in Austin, Texas, he returned the following year and brought back more than 80 gig posters. He set up a pop up stall in Greenwich market and sold every one, having found a niche in the market; the gallery was the next step. The gallery, run by Rob Davis, is a one-stop shop for gig and movie posters, including specially commissioned contemporary gig posters of bands as diverse as Iron Maiden and Wilko Johnson. The concept of concert-poster-as-art emerged in the late 60s but dwindled away when music went mass market and stadium rock took hold. Over the past 10-15 years, there has been a resurgence of the form with a whole new breed of talented artists expressing their love of music through beautiful, hand crafted gig posters. About 90% of the artwork for the gig posters is created by American graphic artists; work from well-known artists such as Emek, Chuck Sperry, Justin Hampton, Adam Pobiak and Vance Kelly is on show in the gallery. As well as music posters there are a wide selection of Pop culture posters inspired by movies and cult TV shows like Blade Runner and Breaking Bad, by best selling American artist, Tim Doyle. Welsh Illustrator, Richey Beckett based in South Wales, works predominantly in pen and ink, and has gained recognition for his intricately detailed record covers, and movie posters, such as The Wicker Man.
Chris Marksberry with one of the many affordable Posters Aim High a photographic history of Paul Weller By Tom Sheehan
As a natural progression, Chris moved into book publishing, specialising in beautifully designed, lovingly compiled music, art and photography titles. The Flood Gallery now has a growing range of stunning ‘coffee table’ style hardback books. The most recent and very successful book published was Aim High by Tom Sheehan a 240 page photographic history spanning the career of Paul Weller. To compliment the gig poster business, Chris has another company, Sound Performance with offices in the UK and New York, which provides manufacturing and associated services for independent Record labels including CD & DVD replication, Vinyl pressing and deluxe box set design and project management. Flood Gallery is definitely more than just a gallery, and if you want your poster framed, they even offer ready-made and bespoke framing services.
Doors poster L.A. Woman By Adam Pobiak
www.thefloodgallery.com 0208 269 0372 The Flood Gallery, 8 Greenwich Market, Greenwich SE10 9HZ
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WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N 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 Earl on 020 8303 3361 or Alan Davis 020 8467 2032. Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley.
WOOLWICH SINGERS
FESTIVE PLANS COME EARLY! BY JAMES HADDRELL, ARTISTIC & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GREENWICH THEATRE With most people’s attention turning to major summer fixtures like Wimbledon and Euro 2016, and a lot of the theatre companies we regularly work with preparing to head to the Edinburgh Festival, here at Greenwich Theatre we are working on something totally different. With summer everywhere else, we are now turning our full attention to Christmas and our annual pantomime. Pantomime in Greenwich has become a mainstay of the festive season in London, and we have become known as home to one of the capital’s most significant celebrity-free traditional pantomimes. With ten years’ experience under his belt, our writer/director/dame Andrew Pollard is finally taking on one of the iconic characters from family literature - Peter Pan. With an all new adventure for everyone’s favourite characters, from Captain Hook and the Crocodile to Peter and the fairy Tinkerbell, this is set to be our biggest show yet. We are often asked to identify the ingredient that makes our
pantomime such a success, with ever growing audiences leading us to extend the run a few years ago, and I think above anything else it comes down to the importance of the story. Our show will have West End quality singers, hysterical comedy routines and a host of special effects, and every year we try to outdo the show from the year before, but more than anything when an audience watches a Greenwich Theatre pantomime they fall in love with the hero and the heroine, they genuinely care for them and want them to succeed. The show is not just a sequence of gags or songs, it is a story with real heart suitable for all ages. We are delighted that tickets are already selling faster than ever before so we can be sure of a sell-out run this year – so while people are cheering for Andy Murray or for England, or are planning their summer holidays, I hope they find a moment to look ahead and book their tickets for pantomime and don’t miss out! Box Office 020 8858 7755 www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk
ONGOING GREENWICH DECORATIVE & ART, DRAMA, MUSIC, COURSES FINE ARTS SOCIETY 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.
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
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.
EVERY FRI LUNCHTIME CONCERT
1pm – 2pm. Free. www.charlton-house.org 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.
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 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.
UNTIL 11 JUN DON’T MISS IGGLEPIGGLE AND FRIENDS
Step into the magical world of In the Night Garden and see Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka brought to life with beautiful costumes and puppets. Panoramic projections and enchanting music make it feel like you’re actually in the Night Garden! In the Night Garden Live takes place in its own purpose-built family-friendly Showdome. With just 13 rows of seats, you’ll be close to the action wherever you sit and everyone gets a great view! There are two shows to choose from and each one lasts just under an hour – will you catch the Ninky Nonk or the Pinky Ponk? Watch the trailer and book online at nightgardenlive. com. Tickets 0333 300 0015.
BROMLEY GREEN GYM
UNTIL 29 JUNE INTERACTIVE TALK ABOUT & ART EXHIBITION
CHARLTON JUDO CLUB
UNTIL JUL 10 GREENWICH PRINTMAKERS
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.
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 2ND SAT BOOK SALE
Friends of Age Exchange. www.friends-of-age-exchange.org.uk. 10am-4pm. Bakehouse Bookshop, Blackheath Village SE3 9LA.
Pre-Raphaelites Artistic Movement plus drawing workshops for all ages. Free. Mon-Fri 8am-10pm, Sat 9am-5pm & Sun 10am-5pm. www.talkaboutart.co.uk. Deptford Lounge, Giffin Street, Deptford SE8.
Featured artist. Until 19 Jun Maureen Sweeney, 21 Jun – 10 Jul Peter Wareham. Tues – Sun, 10am-5.30pm. www.greenwich-printmakers.co.uk. 020 8858 1569. Greenwich Printmakers Gallery, 1A The Market, Greenwich SE10 9HZ.
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.
E:MAIL events@meridian-magazine.co.uk
THURS 9-30 JUN 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 10 JUN BEAVERWOOD CLUB NIGHT
OPEN DAY AT ELMSTEAD CARE HOME FRIDAY 17 JUNE FROM 2PM-6PM.
We are making positive noise... come along and join us. Elmstead is taking part in the National Care Home Open Day. This is a nationwide event welcoming local communities to come and soak up the atmosphere and get a feel for what a care home has to offer. Join us for an afternoon of fun for all with live music & song from our local & very talented ‘Hailey’ at 3pm. Bollywood dancers, balloon modelling, magic & games for children of all ages. Complimentary cakes & refreshments, and Complimentary Stalls & raffles and more! Free entry. 104 Elmstead Lane, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5EL.
TUES 7, 14, 21 & 28 JUN LEARN TO DANCE WITH CEROC
Beginners Class 8pm, free style from 9.30pm. No need to book. 8-11pm. £9, £2 members. See www. thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst BR7 6HF.
THURS 9 JUN BACH TO BABY
Classical concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music. 4pm. £15. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road SE3 7SE.
ROBIN BIBI
One of the UK’s top blues/rock guitarists. Exuberant, passionate and fun. It’s music played straight from the heart. 7.30-11pm. £10 in advance?£12 on the door. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst BR7 6HF.
Have fun at the best party in town, where DJ Dave Collins will play the best chart, club & soul. Age restriction30+. £8 members/£10 non-members. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.
SAT 11 JUN RAR FARMERS MARKET
Local produce on sale. 10am-3pm. No 1 Street, Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich SE18.
QUEENS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
Just turn up and join in the birthday celebrations. 10am-3pm. As above.
VINTAGE MARKET
Launched by Julie Ricketts this Vintage and Craft Fair will feature vintage treasures including clothing and housewares,and a 1940’s tearoom. Building 10, Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich SE18.
GREENWICH CLASSICS AT CUTTY SARK GARDEN
Join the Bollywood Brass Band for an afternoon featuring the very best classical Bollywood and European music spanning the last 40-years. 12noon-3pm. Free. Cutty Sark Gardens, Greenwich SE10 9HT.
MAKE ME SMILE STEVE HARLEY LOOKS FORWARD TO APPEARING AT GREENWICH MUSIC TIME What’s it like returning to your old stomping ground? I love returning to south east London, last year, we played outdoors in Bermondsey. My dad had a 500-call RACS milk round in Greenwich, and I definitely believe many local people will remember Ron Nice. Our house in Suffolk has a good few pieces of furniture and art bought in Greenwich market when we lived in Blackheath in the 80s. Do you have anything special planned for this performance at Greenwich Music Time? I’m working on it! But we will probably have just 45 minutes to an hour to deliver, as we are special guests, not headlining. How did you celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Best Years of Our Lives album? I brought together the original members of the Cockney Rebel band that made the album and we played a 16-date UK tour of the concert halls. Ended the tour at Indigo2 at the 02 - see, I can’t stay away!
SAT 11 & 12 JUN RECYCLE CHALLENGE
An interactive family festival taking over the Museum of London Docklands. The museum is on a mission to find new and imaginative ways to look after our city and our planet needs your help.Become an eco-champion for the day and make a junk masteroiece. 12noon-4pm. Free. Museum of London Docklands, West India Quay, London E14 4AL
SAT 11-12 & 18-19 JUN GREENWICH OPEN STUDIOS
Meet the artists and see their work. 2-6pm. Free. For more details see www.greenwichopenstudios.co.uk.
SUN 12 JUN HANDEL WITH HAMPER – PICNIC CONCERT
Alexander’s Feast, Handle with Thomas Tallis Society directed by Eamonn Dougan. A picnic concert with baroque orchestra.Bring your own picnic for the extended interval. 6.30pm. £18/£12. www. ticketsouce.co.uk/alexander. St Alfege Church, Greenwich SE10.
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TUES 14 JUN BACH TO BABY
Classical concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music. 4pm. £15. Bromley United Reformed Church, 20 Widmore Street, Bromley BR1 1RY.
GREENWICH INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SOCIETY
The Royal Arsenal, then and now. A talk by Ian Bull.7.30pm. Non members £1. The Old Bakehouse, Bennett Park SE3.
WED 15 JUN TALES OF A MODERN DAY PLANT HUNTER
Talk by Tom Hart Dyke. He tells the story of his kidnap in a Colombian jungle while on a plant hunting expedition in 2000 and how, since his release from captivity, he has created the ‘world’ in his back garden at Lullingstone Castle in Kent. 7.30pm doors open 7pm. £12 in advance on 01322 526574. Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley Kent DA5 1PQ.
Last year you released your first new song in five years, ‘Ordinary People’. Is there another in the pipeline? Lots of new songs are in the pipeline. I will start recording in earnest early next year Do you have any tours planned for later this year? My agent is plotting a substantial UK tour in the autumn, for my three-man acoustic set-up: James Lascelles on piano and percussion; Barry Wickens on violin and guitar, and myself. I love the acoustic sets. We swing and rock and improvise and it’s never the same twice. Steve Harley will be appearing on Saturday 9 July at Greenwich Music Time www.greenwicmusictime.co.uk
FRI 17 JUN BLACKHEATH FLOWER CLUB
June is bursting out all over by Graham Harmer. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road SE3 7SE.
PRINCE TRIBUTE
Live Prince tribute singer and band. Sittings at 7&9pm (2 hour dining limit). Bookings on 0208 852 0700. Locale Restaurant, 1 Lawn Terrace, Blackheath Village SE3 9LJ.
SAT 18 JUN AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL BOOK SALES
This regular event is much loved by the local community and buyers from further afield. The church is filled with over 10,000 high-quality books at low prices. 9am-5pm. Church of the Ascension, Dartmouth Row, SE10 8BF.
RAR SUMMER JAZZ FESTIVAL
Jazz music in the sun. 3-9pm. Free. Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich SE18.
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W H AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N THURS 23 JUN BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY
FOUR TICKE TS
The extravagances of Napoleon and Josephine give a rare insight to their taste and ambitions reveals today’s lecturer, Carole Petipher. Refreshments 2pm for 2.30pm. Visitors £7. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk. St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackheath SE3.
MAINLY MADNESS
Nina Conti
GREENWICH COMEDY FESTIVAL 2016
26-31 JULY NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM The magnificent Greenwich Comedy Festival jumps forward to July this year to bring you six summer nights of award-winning comedy in the stunning surroundings of the National Maritime Museum. This year’s comedy extravaganza presents another blistering line-up of comedy greats including the provocative Reginald D Hunter, British Comedy Award winner, Nina Conti; one-liner maestro, Milton Jones; lo-fi genius, David O’Doherty; self-styled German Comedy Ambassador, Henning When; plus many more. The festival is especially privileged to present the must-see show for Bowie fans everywhere - Adam Buxton’s BUG: David Bowie Special, celebrating the star’s incredible music videos, on-screen appearances and the indelible mark he made. The much-lauded festival also boasts a host of cult acts including British Comedy Award winners Cardinal Burns, the delightfully strange Paul Foot, maximum nonsense maker Tony Law and the superb John Shuttleworth. The festival will once again be chock-full with bars, street-food, music and more set to the backdrop of Royal Greenwich’s stunning Queens House and National Maritime Museum. WIN! four tickets to see British Comedy Award winner, Nina Conti, plus Seann Walsh, Carl Donnelly & Jarred Christmas in the Big Top on Sat 30 July at this year’s Greenwich Comedy Festival. Tickets on sale now: www.greenwichcomedyfestival.co.uk
SUN 19 JUN 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. See the Prince Consort engine under steam. Visitors are advised to wear trousers and flat shoes.10.30-5pm. Last entry 4pm. www.crossness.org.uk. The roossness Engine Trust, Crossness STW, Bazalgette Way, Abbey Wood, SE2 9AQ.
MUSIC IN GREENWICH PARK
Mid-summer jazz concert with the Phoenix Dixieland Jazz band in the Observatory Garden. Family event organized by the Friends of the Park. Gates open from 12noon. Bar, food and ice available. £5 adults (£7 on the gate) Under 16 free. Contact 020 8853 2150 for advance tickets. Greenwich Park.
FATHERS DAY LUNCH
Live music all mafternoon and a set menu. Two-courses £19 and Three-courses £29. Bookings on 0208 852 0700. Locale Restaurant, 1 Lawn Terrace, Blackheath Village SE3 9LJ.
LIVE JAZZ + SUNDAY LUNCH
Enjoy the ultimate Father’s Day experience with a delicious lunch cooked by their top chef while listening to a live jazz concert given by Jazznights Ensemble. Children/families welcome. £25 ahead for two courses. To book call 020 8300 1385 or email info@thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst BR7 6HF.
TUES 21 JUN ALBANY DOWN – CD LAUNCH
This band’s big Zeppelin-influenced sound draws from the same British blue-rock well, that gave Zeppelin a head start all those years ago. 7.30-11pm. £10 in advance £12 on the door. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst BR7 6HF.
A GROUP OF Two Tone loving musicians that bring the Madness to your doorstep. Not only a tribute but a great band itself. 7.30-11pm. £10 in advance £12 on the door. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details.
WINE MAKERS DINNER
A fabulous evening with a four-course Tuscan menu matched with wines from the world famous historical winemaker, Antinori. Very limited spaces available. Bookings on 0208 852 0700. Locale Restaurant, 1 Lawn Terrace, Blackheath Village SE3 9LJ.
FRI 24 JUN BEAVERWOOD CLUB NIGHT
FRI 1 JUL NICHOLAS HAWKSMOOR
Owen Hopkins, author of the recently published book, From the Shadows – The architecture and afterlife of Nicholas Hawksmoor will talk about his book. 6.30, talk at 7pm. £5 available from the website www. greenwichsociety.org.uk. 07747 053 093. West Greenwich Library. SE10.
SUN 3 JUL BANDSTAND CONCERTS
The Friends of the Park present the Belvedere Concert Band.. 3pm. Free. Greenwich
MON 4 JUL GLENMORANGIE ‘GREAT FINISHES’ COCKTAIL TASTING
A tasting of a selection of cocktails created by Boisdale mixologist Joe Boxall made from three whiskies from the Glenmorangie range. 6.30pm. Members Free, non members £20. Boisdale, Cabot Place West, Canary Wharf E14 4QT.
Have fun at the best party in town, where DJ Dave Collins will play the best chart, club & soul. Age restriction30+. £8 members/£10 non-members. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.
SAT 25 JUN RAR FARMERS MARKET
Local produce on sale. 10am-3pm. No 1 Street, Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich SE18.
SUN 26 JUN BANDSTAND CONCERTS
The Friends of the Park are staging a full progamme of afternoon concerts at the Greenwich Park bandstand from the end of June to the end of August. Here Greenwich Steel Band and Royal Greenwich Big Band play. 3pm. Free. Greenwich Park.
MON 27 JUN WHISKEY & GIN TASTING
Glendalough Whiskey & seasonbal gin tasting experience. The tasting will give guests an opprtunityto find out more about the Glendalouh Distillery, taste three expressions of their whiskey as well as gin. Members £10, non members £25.6.30pm. Boisdale, Cabot Place West, Canary Wharf E14 4QT.
WED 29 JUN SYDENHAM HIGH SCHOOL D’ART EXHIBITION
Acclaimed annual art and design technology show, showcasing the schools’ young talent. 3.30-5pm. Free. Sydenham High School, 19 Westwood Hill, SE26 6BL.
THURS 30 JUN ALTER EAGLES
The band performs the whole repertoire of Eagles tracks. 7.30-11pm. £10 in advance £12 on the door. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details.
GREENWICH DANCES 17-30 JUNE Immerse yourself in the biggest ever Greenwich Dances festival, a two-week celebration of world-class dance across the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Enjoy free outdoor events and family performances across the Royal Borough – as well as events in the stunning surroundings of The Borough Hall, Greenwich Dance’s Grade II listed home. Never been to a Greenwich Dance event before? There are a limited number of £1 tickets for Royal Borough of Greenwich residents. Call Greenwich Dance on 020 8293 9741 or visit greenwichdance.org.uk for more information. Greenwich Dances is part of the Royal Greenwich Festivals, supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
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A FAM ILY TICKE T
CHILLED IN A FIELD FESTIVAL PLAY ALL DAY AND DANCE ALL NIGHT! 29-31 JULY Five-Star Award-Winning Family-Friendly Dance, Live Music, & Arts Festival
Live Headliners: Bill Daniel Bunter, 2 Bad Mice, The Egg, Tankus the Henge, She Drew the Gun, Cocos Lovers & The Ting. Nestled on the Kent / East Sussex border with oodles of flat grassy space, secluded woods, proper toilets, hot showers, miniature ponies and lots more for the kids. Grown from the ‘90’s London party scene, this is a small, independent festival for grown up ex-ravers and their kids! With free activities for children and adults all day, bands, musicians, artists, science, theatre, performances and, of course, awesome dance music from some of the UK’s top independent labels. Ale festival bar, local beer and dozens of ciders, bubbles and cocktails, and mountains of street food. This is a not-for-profit social enterprise run completely by volunteers, so you can really feel the love. Tickets are capped - to keep the festival feeling small and lovely and we sell out every year. Bring friends, bring children, and see for yourself why The Argus gave the event 5 stars, and Festival Kidz gave them Gold. They can’t wait to play all day and dance all night in a field with you! Tickets: Adults £99, Children, £25, Teens £30 and Infants £3. 29 - 31 July . The Hop Farm Family Park, Paddock Wood, Tonbridge Kent TN12 6PY.www.chilledinafieldfestival.co.uk WIN! a family ticket to this year’s Chilled in a Field Festival! To enter go to www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/win, or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to win@meridianmagazine.co.uk or send a postcard with your details to Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE.
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