Meridian Magazine March 2016 issue version by Meridian Magazine

Meridian March 2016 ÂŁ1.00 Where Sold

Taking the Kitch out of the Kitchen

Your Local What, Where and When Magazine

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A Voucher for Dinner at Mogul

HELLO Can you believe it is already March? The good news is, we’ve made it through the dark spell. Don’t forget to make a note of the clocks springing forward on Sunday 27. Make up for losing that hour by getting your calendars filled with plenty of activities. Turn straight to our listing pages to get busy. Another big date, which isn’t advisable to forget, is Mother’s Day (Sunday 6)! We suggest flicking to our fashion feature (if your mum likes to look her best), to keep her on trend for this season. If that’s not her cuppa, turn to our food and drink section for inspiration, and, while you’ll there, stop by to read about the wonderful story behind the Buenos Aires restaurants and what’s to come. If your mum is a big art fan, our interview with Kit Boyd from Greenwich Printmakers might give you a few ideas too. Now the weather is starting to pick up again, so are home improvements and house hunting. In interiors, we take the kitch a long way away from your kitchen and look at novel ways to refresh the hearth of the home, or completely renovate it – with some top tips from specialists in bespoke craftsmanship. In property, we take a closer look at Lee, then indulge in some riverside living as we look at the growing communities embracing life at Royal Arsenal. Greenwich Peninsula is expanding too – if you haven’t visited for a while, we recap on what you’re missing out on. Plus, with news that Bromely South is being regenerated, we just had to hear more; read about these exciting plans on page 23.

We have some fantastic competitions this month, too. Win a family ticket to Zippo’s Circus, who will be coming to Blackheath from 24 March – 5 April with a brand new production for 2016, or perhaps a voucher to the value of £100 for the Mogul Indian restaurant. There’s also a pair of tickets to be won to Kate Rusby at Blackheath Halls, plus four runner-up prizes. Head over to our website to enter now, or simply email: win@meridianmagazine.co.uk with your details. Lastly, if you have a beautiful/crazy/cute/cuddly dog, or just adore a friend’s or family member’s – we want photos of your precious pouches for our new photography competition. Each month we’ll pick our favourites before announcing a winner in the readers’ vote, later this year! Enjoy the issue

The Meridian Team xx

INSIDE THIS ISSUE....

INTERIORS, TAKING OUT THE KITCH P14-15

LOVE LOCAL P8

THE PRINTMAKERS P47

GREENWICH PENINSULA P20-21

SPRING FASHION P11

WHAT TO DO P42-45

Meridian MAGAZINE M A RC H 2 0 1 6 Publisher: Joy Johnston Editor: Valerie Breese Art & Production Director: Paul McPherson Display Sales: Cheryl Voller Emma Forbes Gary Smythson April Hartley-Watson Classified Sales: Gary Smythson 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

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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.

Discover Lee, a vibriant society

LOVE LOCA L

For many people Lee remains something of a well kept secret, deep in the heart of the borough of Lewisham Lee is an area rich with history and a good selection of Victorian housing stock and new developments for house hunters to choose from. Bordered by Blackheath to the north and Bromley to the south, and with plenty of green spaces. A range of residents’ groups dedicated to preserving the area’s charms point to a community feel that is hard to manufacture, and their efforts have succeeded in restoring local landmarks and introducing tree-planting projects.

An influx of professionals and families with young children has seen a turnaround in the fortunes of Lee, and these local community organisations are thriving, with more cafes, bars and shops arriving all the time.

The River Quaggy winds its way from Chislehurst through Eltham and Blackheath then finally through Lee into Manor House Gardens, which features a walled flower garden, children’s playground, and community garden. Finally, the Quaggy flows into Manor Park where it joins the Ravensbourne.

Harlcyon books have just opened a book shop in Lee High Road, offering a wide selection of new, secondhand and antiquarian books.

Live in Lee If you like the sound of Lee and would like live here, JDM are marketing this landmark period building which has been extensively and lovingly restored externally to its former glory - with an amazing amount of attention to detail. The development comprises four individual private apartments of varying sizes priced from £315,000 to £400,000. Contact JDM Blackheath Village jdmestateagents.com 020 8463 0091.

Among new business, a local favourite is Luciano’s, for a taste of Italy try their stone baked pizza and freshly made pasta dishes run by Enzo Masiello, while his wife, Maritza has just opened Home & Kids nearby.

Studio 61 in Lee Road has regular exhibitions featuring the work of local artists and offers a picture framing service.

£10 Vouch0 er

The Mogul in the heart of Greenwich has been a popular restaurant serving Indian cuisine at its best. Spread over three floors, each with its own ambience. Particularly the private dining room located upstairs on the first floor. They also offer the mogul home dining kitchen for a delivery service. www.mogulindian.co.uk. Home Dining Kitchen 020 8858 1500. Mogul Restaurant 10 Greenwich Church Street London SE 10 9BJ 020 8858 6790.

Pedal It

The Vintage Fish Shop

This local independent bike shop is just a short ride from Blackheath and Lee Green and stock an extensive range of new bicycles, a cycle repair shop and hire centre. Their experienced staff are always available for advice and practical help when you need it.

For a British tradition the new Vintage Fish Shop is making waves. The fish arrives daily from the market to ensure its fresh and at it’s best. Fried in beer batter for a fantastic taste and finish, while on Wednesday they offer gluten-free batter for those who are gluten intolerant.

www.pedal-it.co.uk. 0208 852 6680. 288-290 Lee High Rd, Lewisham, London SE13 5PJ

www.vintagefishshop.co.uk 020 8297 0888 120 Lee Road, SE3 9DE

To win a £100 voucher which can be spent in either the restaurant or the home service simply 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.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

www.devernois.fr

Celebrate the arrival of our Spring Collection with a special Champagne event on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th of March. Drop by today and experience something very different.

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

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 7

M E RID IA N FASHIO N

Spring trends from the catwalk From sexy bare shoulders to an inventive twist on the classic white shirt, this set of styles delivers big on statement factors. Even if you’re just looking for a way to amp up your office look, we’ve got you covered — read on for the biggest trends from all the major catwalks. Cold Shoulders this season, designers took the look a step further with cutouts meant to highlight just the shoulder, making knits more breathable, breezy dresses even breezier, and everything just a little sexier. Ruffled Up - girlie but grown up was everywhere on the catwalks, as designers added a smattering of ruffles to give looks a flirtatious vibe. Other times, the effect was downright sculptural, giving dimension to tops and sheath dresses with a more contemporary appeal. Wear Your Stripes- the classic pattern is emboldened for spring on suiting, sets, and notice-me dresses. That’s a Wrap skirt - without going too leggy, these wrap skirts will give your look just a hint of skin, so, you know, you can still get away with wearing one to the office. White Shirt - once borrowed from the boys, these white button-downs are all ours now. Buttoned up, ruffled, and slashed, this staple got a high-fashion twist that will make the old favourite a cool-girl spring essential.

3 Coloured wrap pencil skirt. £89.90 Rocknrom www.rocknrom.com

Rule One is a mantra for life – always ‘Look the Part’ Rule One London is an online fashion business set up by local entrepreneur, Alison Kilsby. Founded in London, Rule One’s style is inspired by iconic stylish women and has become an established fashion brand in its own right, with clients from all over the world!. Rule One has been spotted on countless celebs, in the top glossy magazines and seen on TV. Alison’s new and improved website allows clients to browse the new collection that has been personally handpicked by her dedicated team at ROL. You can access the website on both your tablet and mobile, place an order and your items, beautifully packaged will be dispatched and in your wardrobe within 1-2 days, as standard. Alison explained, “When we ask our clients to describe Rule One, they said; current, glamorous and always classy.” “We’ve chosen items to fill an entire wardrobe, designed for the girl-about-town socialite who loves to look fabulous by day, and sleek and sophisticated by night.” Not only does Rule One have that ‘je ne sais quoi’, but all of the items are limited editions, so be sure to get your hands on them quickly! Rule One is your one stop boutique for all your glamour needs. All girls should feel a million dollars, 100% of the time! See more at www.ruleonelondon.com

Louche Citare Skirt £39.00 www.joythestore.com 020 8293 7979 9 Nelson Road, Greenwich SE10 9JB

Taking the Kitch out of the Kitchen How best to transform your cluttered old kitchen into a modern clean space? From new work tops to a deep clean, Meridian has the answers...

ME R IDIA N INT ERIO RS

Turn your tired old kitchen into a modern 21st century space. Considering up grading your tired kitchen? Want to create smooth lines, uncluttered surfaces, add a dash of colour with new splash backs for a clean fresh look, or maybe a complete refurbish of your old kitchen is required to bring it into the 21st century? The multi-award winning, Granite Transformation offers the ultimate in kitchen makeover solutions with granite, quartz and glass worktops that fit directly over your existing kitchen surface. The 6.5mm engineered stone fitting, is achieved in just one day and often includes the upgrade of appliances such as sinks, taps and ovens at the same time. In addition, they offer a complete kitchen door replacement service, from stripping back to the bare carcass and changing doors, panels, cornice and pelmets to give you that truly ‘new kitchen’ look for a fraction of the cost of a new kitchen and without the mess and demolition.

Ogle

With many styles of new and contemporary doors and over 30 colours to chose from, the design possibilities are endless. Every bespoke item is made to your exact requirements and fitted by their long-serving professional fitting staff; plus all worktops are manufactured locally in their head office in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. As members of Checkatrade, they have accrued an impressive 1200 reputation reports posted online; with an average score of 9.9 for remarkable service, attention to detail and providing the customer with a swift and hassle-free service with stunning results. With a showroom at Tunbridge Wells and display stands at Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Sidcup and Pollhill Garden Centre, Badgers Mount, Sevenoaks, you can see the product and speak to one of their staff to discuss your requirements.

They offer free home consultations with one of their designers to show you exactly how they can transform your kitchen to suit your desired style and budget. For more information or to book an appointment, simply call: 020 8308 9286 Alternatively, visit us at: www.granitetransformations.co.uk

Puccini Kitchens Spring Cleaning

Combining their wealth of experience and talent, award winning Richard Olley and James King have opened their first design led retail showroom, Ogle with stunning kitchens, bathrooms and stonework. Driven by a passion for design and innovation, Ogle combines indepth knowledge and experience of cabinetry making, stone masonry, and glass and steel fabrication to create solutions that set them apart from their competitors. Showroom opening hours Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 - 18:00 Monday & Sunday by appointment www.ogle.co.uk Info@ogle.co.uk 020 8850 1188 737 Sidcup road, SE9 3SA

Proudly independent and passionate about service, they create beautiful, enduring kitchens for clients across London. With over 15 years of expertise, they are skilled at maximising awkward spaces and providing bespoke solutions to ensure your kitchen is perfect for your lifestyle and budget.

Yellow Gloves Cleaners Ltd, are based in Royal Greenwich and provide domestic cleaning and home maintenance service.

Their free design consultations take place in the comfort of your own home, where we can assess your space and discuss your needs. They also have a new showroom opening in Brockley in spring. If you would like them to visit, to look at your space or plans and give you some advice, do get in touch.

The demands of everyday life often mean we do not have the time we need to give our home the attention it deserves. Yellow Gloves ‘spring cleaning service’ is designed to give your home a thorough clean. Minimum booking two hours. If you would like the oven thoroughly cleaned, there is an additional charge.

www.puccinikitchens.co.uk. 020 3507 1937.

www.yellowgloves.co.uk 020 8331 1700. www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME R IDIA N INT ERIO RS

Reams of Solutions

We ask Ream about how best to bring bespoke craftmanship into your home

What is your bespoke design and manufacturing service? All home projects are unique, with tastes and lifestyle creating individuality. However bespoke design has always been acknowledged as the only true way to achieve perfect flexibility, practicality and desirability. More often than not there is a high cost expectancy associated with bespoke design, but at Ream, a local independent family run business, we have been offering that bespoke design service at a fraction of the cost for over 36 years; in kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and home living. Are you a local manufacturer? Ream manufactures its own furniture. Having the workshop side of the business has given great scope to offer that bespoke variation that others cannot. Our workshop uses the perfect blend of technology and ‘hands on’ skills to ensure highquality products, customised to the dimensions of your kitchen. Every project is unique and made to order for our clients by our team, who put the care and attention to every single piece of furniture they make.

Do you offer project management? Completing your home improvement projects with minimum levels of stress and disturbance to you and your families are paramount at Ream. Our reputation for excellence has been earned not merely through offering quality and inspiring products but also full project management from start to finish. What is your secret to happy customers? We love to see our client’s faces when they see the finished room. Our customers choose us because we are passionate about the quality, service and value for money we deliver. Until our clients projects are completed and they are happy with the quality of our service and installation, we never ask for final payment. How do you offer peace of mind? If you want to have peace of mind then always look for a KBSA retailer (Kitchen, Bathroom and Bedroom Specialists Association): the only professional governing body for independent specialists in the UK. The KBSA insurance backed guarantee will cover your deposit and will give protection throughout your project, an important factor in today’s market. Ream has been members for over 30 years.

Ream offer a full bespoke and full installation service with showrooms in Sidcup and Gillingham. To find out more go to: www.ream.co.uk or call: 020 8166 8173

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ME RID IA N LIFEST YLE

Embrace life by the river at Berkeley Homes Royal Arsenal Riverside

Prices for a home at Waterfront start at £440,000.

The opportunity to live in a stunning Berkeley Homes property, set within a riverside development, could be yours with a range of Manhattan suites available with one, two or three bedrooms and fantastic penthouses at Waterfront. Many homes offer incredible river views overlooking the River Thames and towards Canary Wharf. Located in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Arsenal Riverside already has an established community, with over 2,000 homes who benefit from the Farmers Market which takes place on the second and last Saturday of every month. Whilst a choice of high quality restaurants, bars and shops can also be found and will soon be joined by the forthcoming Marks and Spencer store, which was announced in February 2016

Royal Arsenal Riverside is already served by great transport connections with the nearby DLR and national rail stations just 300 metres away from the development, whilst the onsite Thames Clipper runs from Royal Arsenal Riverside, offering river-based connections to Canary Wharf, the City and central London. For residents looking to fly, London City Airport is just 7 minutes away via the DLR fast-track service. Lyndon Nunn, Sales Director at Berkeley Homes said: “Royal Arsenal Riverside is a destination which seamlessly combines historic and contemporary buildings and incorporates all of the design details and high-quality specifications that Berkeley Homes are renowned for.

“What sets Waterfront apart is the stunning riverside views of the River Thames and the facilities which will include a brand new 24 hour concierge, state-ofthe-art gym and spa with a 20m swimming pool.” The surrounding area will also become a focal point for the community as the new four acre Waterfront Park will connect the 1km of Riverwalk to the new Crossrail station to Royal Arsenal Riverside and the River Thames, as well as Woolwich town centre and beyond. For more information about the homes available, please visit: www.royalarsenalriverside.co.uk or call: 020 8331 7130 to arrange a viewing of the new one, two and three bedroom Waterfront Show apartments.

Elizabeth Line Opens 2018 In 2018, the Royal Arsenal Woolwich, newly named Elizabeth line station, will open at Royal Arsenal Riverside, making it one of the best-connected areas in London outside Zone 1, with a journey to Canary Wharf taking 8 minutes, Liverpool Street 14 minutes and Bond Street just 21 minutes.

Canary Wharf 8 mins

Liverpool Street 14 mins

Bond Street 21 mins

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ME R IDIA N LIFEST YLE

Greenwich Peninsula: the ultimate destination... Eighteen Sky Bar on the 18th floor InterContinental London – The O2

Whether you want the latest in musical entertainment or fine dining with a view to die for. Greenwich Peninsula has it all... Want to know more about Muhammad Ali’s life? The current exhibition at The O2 is a celebration of his incredible rise, from humble beginnings to becoming the three times heavyweight champion of the World, and known as ‘The Greatest’. If you have a head for heights then enjoy an exhilarating 90 minutes experience that takes you on a guided expedition over the roof of The O2 via a fabric walkway. Suspended 2m above the surface of the O2 roof, the walkway is 52m above ground level and 380m long. At the summit there is an observation platform where you can take in the spectacular view of London. Children must be over 10 years old for the climb and under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. Fancy some golfing practice or just want to have fun at the Greenwich Peninsular Golfing Range? There’s plenty of opportunity to perfect your swing with the 60 bay, two-tier driving range. Every bay has a sofa and coffee table with bar service to order from the range menu, plus a roof terrace overlooking the River Thames.

Between the Underground station and the O2 is the NOW Gallery, housed in a stylish, curved building of glass, wood and copper. The NOW Commission invites shortlisted artists, designers and creatives to come up with an exciting and exceptional installation that will transform and react to the gallery space. Now showing is: Where Pioneers Live -The London-based Made Thought studio has built up a cult following internationally for its bold, varied and distinctive aesthetic work. On until 16 May 2016.

Photo: Visit Greenwich

Up at the O2

The recently opened riverside InterContinental® London - The O2 hotel stands out in the buzzing Greenwich Peninsula. The hotel has several stylish restaurants and bars open to the public and offers a new level of fine dining to the area and spectacular views of Canary Wharf, best enjoyed over cocktails in the Eighteen Sky Bar on the 18th floor.

Greenwich Peninsula Golfing Range

...and place to live People dream of living in a place where they can create their own lifestyle, with the type of community that they want to live in and that works with the way they want to live their own lives. Greenwich Peninsula is emerging as a unique place in London where you can do just that. The £8.4 billion rebirth of this distinctive loop in the Thames is unique in London – an island of possibility ripe for the 15,000 new homes that are planned - in new neighbourhoods that bring together great architecture, with light, space and a creative community, all wrapped by the river Thames. People who have already bought, or are planning to buy there, are attracted by the pioneering spirit of being among the first to settle in this new area, being part of building a community under the wide open skies above the Peninsula and embracing the design and art vibe running through it and exciting places to eat such as Craft London, by restaurateur Stevie Parle. Seven new neighbourhoods are being created, each with its own character. The new film studio will attract a unique, creative buzz while the homes close to the river will reflect the tranquil riverside. There will be homes designed around lush city parks and there will be neighbourhoods characterised by the designers and cultural businesses flourishing there. The Jubilee Line is one stop to Canary Wharf and just 18 minutes from Bond Street, while the Thames Clipper offers the opportunity to travel to central London by boat. The latest edition of apartments to launch is in the Upper Riverside district: a collection of 800 homes in five glass prisms overlooking the Thames. Prices range from £450,000 for a one bedroom apartment to £2.25 million for a penthouse. Designed by SOM, world leaders in high-rise architecture, including the World Trade Centre in New York and Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the towers have distinctive stepped geometric exteriors. There are cascading roof terraces facing the river, dual aspects to many apartments and glorious panoramic river views, capturing the sun rise in the east and the sun setting in the west. Interiors are defined by a light palette of natural oak timber, leathered stone, honed marble and pale lacquered cabinetry, or richer shades of grey timber flooring, slate and granite.

Residents of No.1 and No.2 Upper Riverside will have membership of the Upper Riverside Club. This is home to one of London’s highest residential swimming pools, with views over Canary Wharf, two gyms, river roof terraces with sunbathing, seating and dining areas, private function spaces, private screening rooms and a games room. City gardens, designed by Gross.Max. reflect the 18th century tradition of pleasure gardens and evening socialising in outdoor public spaces, alongside the landscaped riverside promenade of bars, cafes and shops. The Peninsula is now home to nearly 1000 people. They share the Jetty, a floating performance space on the Thames, London’s largest golf driving range, the O2 arena, an art gallery, hotel, bars and independent restaurants that are already emerging. At the heart of the Peninsula, the tube station will be redeveloped to provide shops, hotels and a cinema. In 15 years time, 28,000 people will call Greenwich Peninsula “home.”

Take a look Visit the show apartments, discover Peninsula lifestyle and explore available properties at Gateway Pavilion, Peninsula Square, Greenwich Peninsula, London SE10 0SQ Call: 020 3713 6153 E: sales@greenwichpeninsula.co.uk

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M E RID IA N PRO PERT Y

CHISLEHURST – £2,300,000

A substantial 5 bedroom Victorian house which has gone through a programme of careful refurbishment by the current owners combining the graceful features of a bygone age with contemporary characteristics expected in a 21st century family home. The light, airy and spacious accommodation includes 2 large reception rooms with fireplaces, ornate coving and ceiling roses. Good sized Stoneham fitted kitchen/breakfast room. To the rear and side of the house is a large secluded and wellkept garden which is mainly laid to lawn with mature trees and shrubs. Chislehurst station is approx. 1½ mile distant. Early viewing of this exceptional property is strongly recommended. EPC rating D.

BROMLEY - £640,000

Having been a fantastic family home for the current owners since new in 1980 this light and airy 4 bedroom house offers flexible and quirky accommodation for those looking for a property with a difference. 2 bathrooms, large kitchen/diner with a conservatory style extension and 1st floor lounge. Ample space to extend subject to planning. Integral garage and garden. Within ¾ of a mile from Elmstead Woods station, ½ a mile to Bullers Wood School and 1 mile from Bromley town centre. EPC rating D.

Mad March! The additional 3% stamp duty levy on second home purchases which comes into force after March , has certainly motivated a number of buyers to try and get in before that date. With not long left, March will be a frenetic month for all those involved in the process. Good luck everyone!

BLACKHEATH - £400,000

Fabulous 1 bed duplex apartment in a newly converted and extended Victorian building, lovingly restored with amazing attention to detail. Open plan living space, with dining area leading to kitchen with integrated appliances. Spiral staircase leads up to bedroom with en-suite Shower room. Balcony overlooking the river Quaggy plus private roof terrace. Blackheath train station (London Bridge from 12 mins) and village amenities are under 10 mins walk away. EPC rating TBA

Feel free to contact Richard Piddock or Jonathon de Maid for any further help or to arrange a free valuation of your home. Richard can be contacted at Blackheath 020 8463 0091 richard@jdmestateagents.com Jonathon at Chislehurst 020 8325 8000 jonathon@jdmestateagents.com

BICKLEY - £1,850,000

Superbly refurbished and re-modelled this 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom property feels like new and must be seen. The luxurious show home interior offers over 3,300 sq ft of living space over two floors around an attractive galleried landing. 6 reception rooms including a formal living room, separate dining room, kitchen, full breakfast room and conservatory to the rear. Double garage, plenty of parking and 75’ rear garden. Convenient for three mainline stations and local primary and secondary schools. EPC rating C.

Established 1996

BICKLEY - £675,000

CHAIN FREE. Approached by its own private entrance this 3 bedroom penthouse apartment is situated in a beautiful period building, with a good size terrace having stunning panoramic views and overlooking the gardens below. 25’6 x 21’ reception room and large kitchen/dining room. Good size balcony and there is also a private garden measuring approx 125’ x 40’. Cellar storage. Ample off street parking. Set in private quiet road just ½ a mile to Elmstead Woods Station, so commuting to London is made easy. EPC rating C. Blackheath 020 8463 0091

Locksbottom 01689 880440

Bromley 020 8313 6800

Petts Wood 01689 819819

Chislehurst 020 8325 8000

Lettings 01689 838040

M E R IDIA N LIFEST YLE

Bromley - a town of two halves Bromley town centre is getting a much needed makeover that will kick start the regeneration of the southern end of Bromley High Street, while intu shopping mall will aim to entertain shoppers in more ways. In a Public Private Partnership with London Borough of Bromley, St Mark’s Square will transform the southern end of Bromley town centre, one minute from Bromley South railway station. Bromley South Central will be a new urban lifestyle quarter. The mixeduse development includes a landscaped public plaza surrounded by a nine screen multiplex VUE cinema, 25,000 sq ft of cafés and restaurants including PizzaExpress, Dean’s Diner, Prezzo, Las Iguanas, Nando’s and Turtle Bay, a 130-bed Premier Inn hotel, 200 private and affordable apartments and a new 400 space secure underground car park. The development will create over 200 jobs in Bromley, and provide a total of £220 million GVA (Gross Value Added) to the local economy over the next 10 years.

St Marks Square Moat at St Marks Square are completing 38 x one, two and three bedroom apartments available on a shared ownership basis, which should be ready in eight months. Anyone wishing to register their interest should note that applicants must live and/or work in one of these London boroughs: Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Lewisham and Southwark. For more information on when these homes become available to reserve and for news on upcoming open days, please register your interest visit www.moat-stmarks.co.uk. At the northern end of Bromley High Street, intu has planning approval to create an exciting leisure development to provide more choice and variety in Bromley. The plans include a new cinema to be located on the roof of the centre. The cinema will be designed to be a high-quality boutique concept, with luxurious seating and a more enhanced food and drink experience than you may find in more traditional cinemas. It will have five screens and only 220 seats, which will provide an exclusive feel for filmgoers. The plans also include internal remodelling to provide a casual dining cluster of restaurants around the Elmfield Road entrance to the centre. This layout will ensure that the leisure and catering offer is integrated with all floors of the centre and at ground level, with the entrance to Elmfield Road. In order to attract the right brands to Bromley, they have also refreshed the malls and added a fresh colour palette. In conjunction with their retailers, they have intended the new design to add personality to the four piazza areas and create an improved retail environment for its customers and retailers. Bromley will soon have even more reasons to be your destination of choice.

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ME R IDIA N HEALT H & FIT N E S S

David Lloyd - £3m Refurbishment designated exercise zones catering for all needs: Functional Training Zone; Sports Performance Zone; Community Zone; Strength Zone; Cardio Zone; and Stretch Zone. The gym features a number of key partners such as Life Fitness, Octane Fitness, Watt Bike and Woodway, amongst other best-in-class suppliers. Other changes include an entirely refurbished DLicious cafebar, which will enable members to relax, work or enjoy a meal in modern, stylish and relaxing surroundings. The cafebar will include an adults-only area and business hub for those looking for some quiet down-time or to catch up on emails.

David Lloyd, Kidbrooke, has begun its refursbishment programme, (one of the brand’s biggest investments in one single club) which will result in a transformed club with unrivalled facilities, services and programmes designed to assist members in achieving their health and fitness goals. The ambitious project will see the creation of dedicated group cycling and Mind & Body studios. Alongside these new spaces, the High-impact Fitness Studio is being upgraded, altogether ensuring members are provided with the bestquality fitness environment to achieve their goals. From the moment a member steps into the gym, they will enter a unique, high-quality and inviting space, designed to activate the senses and featuring

The club will be improving its racquets offering with the introduction of three new seasonal covered tennis courts with floodlighting - enabling members to enjoy more time with their racquets all year round. Plus, a brand new 25 metre outdoor pool and spa services will totally transform the swimming facilities at the club. This will be complimented by fully refurbished shower and locker room areas. In addition, the club will be offering exceptional facilities to the whole family for the first time, with the introduction of bespoke kids’ facilities, including a DL Kids area with activity rooms, a crèche and family changing rooms. General Manager Charles Jude said “We are thrilled to be receiving such a large investment to transform the club. It will support the Berkeley Homes investment into Kidbrooke Village.”

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ME RID IA N HEALT H

Dean Wilson Independent Family Funeral Directors

Dean Wilson has worked within the funeral industry for over 25 years. In 2003, he realised that there was a need for an independent funeral home in the area to serve the local and wider community, so in March 2004, Dean Wilson Independent Family Funeral Directors was born. The company currently has two branches based at Well Hall Road, Eltham, and Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley. Both offices are tastefully designed and decorated to create a calm and soothing atmosphere, to enable families and friends to relax while making funeral arrangements. Dean is assisted by his professional and attentive staff who strive to fulfill the wishes of families and ease the pressure on them by arranging everything on the families behalf. Dean and his staff pride themselves on being independent and being able to cater to the needs of all communities in the area, providing a service

that they hope families will feel has been exemplary. That may mean providing a home visit to make funeral arrangements, a courtesy car to and from their premises to make arrangements, or being available 24 hours a day by telephone. Dean says: “The company motto: ‘Our Family Caring For Your Family, 24 Hours a Day’ really does provide what it says, we are here to guide you through what can be a daunting and surreal time in your life. Words cannot express the feelings and emotions you experience when you have just lost a loved one, but we like to think of ourselves as a friend at the end of the phone.” Dean Wilson Funeral Directors can provide everything you could wish for to celebrate a life that has been lived and lost. That can include a horsedrawn carriage, a dove or balloon release, Scottish piper, jazz band, in fact whatever your wishes may be, they will try their utmost to make them a reality.

For advice on any of these services, including our very popular ‘pre-payment plans’ please contact us on: 020 8331 1111 (Eltham) 020 8466 1400 (Bromley) deanwilsonfunerals@yahoo.co.uk Dean Wilson Independent Family Funeral Directors 379 Well Hall Road, Eltham, SE9 6TY 83 Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley, BR1 5AA Whatever your beliefs, race, religion and budget, you can be assured of a dignified and respectful service from Dean Wilson Independent Funeral Directors

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ME RID IA N EDUCAT IO N

KS2 SATs overview Helen Simpson from Young Education Services explains this years changes to Key Stage 2 SATs

All state primary school children are assessed at the end of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 (KS2). This is done via a Standard Assessment Test (SAT). SATs help to identify a student’s key academic strengths and weaknesses, and help local authorities and the government to determine which schools are struggling or doing well. In some cases, secondary schools will base year 7 set information on year 6 SAT scores. As of the summer term of 2016, there will be significant changes to the SATs papers. The tests will reflect the new national curriculum, and are expected to be more difficult. The mark scheme is also set to change drastically. The 2016 KS2 papers will test students in Reading, Maths, Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar.

Reading

The reading test will consist of a single paper, with one 800-word passage and two 300-word passages. Your child will have one hour, including reading time, to complete the test. The question types will include the following: Ranking/ordering, e.g. ‘Number the events below to show the order in which they happen in the story’. Labelling, e.g. ‘Label the text to show the title of the story’. Find and copy, e.g. ‘Find and copy one word that suggests what the weather is like in the story’. Short constructed response, e.g. ‘What does the bear eat?’

Open-ended response, e.g. ‘Look at the sentence that begins ‘Once upon a time’. How does the writer increase the tension throughout this paragraph? Explain fully, referring to the text in your answer.’ Spelling, Punctuation & Grammar (SPaG) This part will consist of two papers: an aural spelling test consisting of 20 words, and a grammar and punctuation paper. This paper will take 45 minutes to complete, and involves two types of questions: Selected response, e.g. ‘Identify the adjectives in the sentence below’. Constructed response, e.g. ‘Correct/complete/ rewrite the sentence below,’ or, ‘The sentence below has an apostrophe missing. Explain why it needs an apostrophe.

Maths

The maths test will consist of three papers. Paper 1: arithmetic, 30 minutes - using fixed response questions, where children have to give the correct answer to calculations, including long multiplication and division. Papers 2 and 3: mathematical fluency, solving problems and reasoning, 40 minutes per paper will involve a number of question types, including: multiple choice; true or false; constrained questions, e.g. giving the answer to a calculation, drawing a shape or completing a table or chart; less constrained questions, where children will have to explain their approach for solving a problem.

There will no longer be an aural mental maths test.

Additional information

The old system of national curriculum levels is no longer used; children will now be given standardised scores. When you receive your child’s results, you will be given your child’s score, alongside the average for their school, the local area and nationally. There will also be a ‘performance descriptor’ of the expected standard for Key Stage 2 pupils. The Department for Education is aiming for 85 per cent of children to reach or exceed that standard. SATs Tests for Year 6 pupils will take place between Monday 9th May and Friday 13th May 2016. Not all children in Year 6 will take science SATs. However, a number of schools will be required to take part in science sampling: a test administered to a selected sample of children thought to be representative of the population as a whole. (Monday 6 to Friday 17 June is the science sampling test period in which your child might sit the tests.) For those who are selected, there will be three papers: Biology: 25 minutes, 22 marks; Chemistry: 25 minutes, 22 marks; Physics: 25 minutes, 22 marks. Helen Simpson, Young Education Services First Floor, 187 Greenwich High Rd, London SE10 8JA  Phone: 020 8858 9180 www.youngeducationservices.co.uk

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M E RID IA N EDUCAT IO N

A great sixth form experience educates you for life. At Blackheath High, we are one month away from completing a fabulous renovation of our sixth form centre: Westcombe House. It has been an incredibly valuable experience working with the architects and interior design experts to realise our vision for what a sixth form teaching environment should feel like. It has also been a great pleasure to design the interior of the building so that it can entirely support the wonderful things we achieve in the sixth form. In planning our teaching rooms, we have sought to create an environment in which the structure of the room can support a whole range of approaches to teaching. Lessons might range from lecture style, to student-led Socratic seminars and collaborative planning of an investigation or report. Sixth form teaching at Blackheath enables girls to engage in the depth and detail of a scholarly text whilst also developing the softer skills of presentation and debate that will be so important in their future. Breakout workspaces, state of the art interactive projectors, alongside more traditional seminar style rooms enable the girls to operate in a fashion more like university and work than than one might usually expect in a school. Of course buildings and furniture are vital for creating spaces conducive to creativity, collaboration and focus, but they are only a part of the sixth form experience. At Blackheath High, sixth form is the culmination of the girls’ education. Diversity of experience characterises sixth form, meaning girls leave us fully confident in the own talents and ready to take on the challenges of the next stage. Alongside superb teaching and excellent sixth form facilities, the students enjoy the opportunities provided by new leadership responsibilities. Our Wollstonecraft academic enrichment programme allows girls to devise, plan and run academic societies, like: Politics; French Culture or Feminist Societies. Guest speakers are invited and hosted by students providing them with invaluable

experience in interacting with experts in their fields. Sixth form brings new chances to encounter new people and try oneself out. This might be debating in a second language against top schools in the City, or committing a series of Saturday mornings to helping children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to learn new skills in our ‘SHINE’ programme. It is no surprise then, to see our students experiencing such success in their university applications with over 70% securing their first choice university place, and 75% heading to Russell Group universities. It is our passionate belief at Blackheath, that an excellent sixth form does not just enable you to pass exams, it is so much more. It provides opportunities to hone the skills, approach and attitude that enable students to thrive at university and in their future lives. There are 100% scholarships available, supported by HSBC bank, available for the candidates who meet the right criteria. If you are interested in finding out more about a sixth form place at Blackheath High, please visit our website (www.blackheathhigh.gdst.net) or contact us directly at school on admissions@bla.gdst.net. Tel: 020 8 853 2929.

ME RID IA N EDUCAT IO N

Online tuition at Young Education Services At Young Education Services we are now able to offer tuition online for students wanting support for SATS or GCSEs. A mutually convenient time can be arranged for tuition with your child’s tutor, who will use a combination of online resources and video conferencing software to deliver the lesson. In the case of GCSE tuition, it would be helpful to know the syllabus and exam board for the required subject in advance. The tutor will be in regular contact with both parent and tutee to constantly assess the tutee’s progress and will be easily contactable to support your child outside of session times if need be. As video conferencing software is a vital part of online tuition it is essential that your child has access to a suitable computer/laptop along with a fast, stable internet connection along with a headset to enable them to be heard clearly by their tutor. For this reason they should also be sat in a quiet room during their session. For more information visit our website at www.youngeducationservices.co.uk or call 0208 858 9180.

Independent and resilient learners

Pound Park Nursery School has been educating local children since 1944 and has built a strong reputation across Greenwich. The nursery school is proud of its family atmosphere and love of the outdoors, and is known locally for its gardens, woodland area, dens and places to climb. “The space allows our children to explore and learn in all weathers,” says Headteacher, Sarah Harrison. We still very much believe in the ‘open-air’ philosophy of nursery education by giving children rich opportunities to learn outdoors, challenge themselves and take risks in their play.”

There’s something for everyone at Pound Park: street dance, sports skills, interactive music sessions, woodwork and ICAN speech and language support. Staff at Pound Park are highly qualified and passionate about delivering the best early education and care. Ofsted has repeatedly graded Pound Park as Outstanding and described it as ‘a Forest School Centre of Excellence’. To find out more go to www.poundparknursery.co.uk 020 8858 1791.

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M E RID IA N FO O D & DRINK

New Seafood and Steak Menu at Locale

Locale Restaurant and Cocktail Bar will shortly be launching their new Seafood and Steak menu which will include new cuts of prime beef, fruit de mer platters, lobster, crab and a new sushi menu. Sushi is now also available for home delivery, seven days a week, through Deliveroo. www.localerestaurants.com 0208 852 0700 Locale, 1, Lawn Terrace, Blackheath, London, SE3 9LJ

Slow and Gentle Does it! CPRESS provides wholesome, organic food and fresh juices to eat in and take away: with wheat, gluten and diary-free options, there’s something to entice everyone. Cold pressing is a process that involves a slow and gentle squeezing action to extract the juice. No heat and minimal friction is used, ensuring the vitamins, minerals and enzymes within the fruit and vegetables remain intact during the extraction. Unlike common centrifugal methods, cold pressing minimises the amount of air that is in contact with the juice. This significantly slows the oxidation and decomposition process, keeping the juice fresh for up to 3 days without losing its nutritional integrity. All of our cold-press juices are raw, unpasteurised and free of additives and preservatives. Enjoy 20% off at CPRESS, Crossrail Walk on Saturday and Sunday’s throughout March. www.cpressjuice.com

Charged Up

Turmeric is the new superfood kid on the block. The active group of compounds known as curcuminoids have been linked to supporting the immune system and detoxification systems, making it a wonderful addition to promote all-round health!

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M E R IDIA N FO O D & DRINK

Buenos Aries

What started as an idea for a neighbourhood café and deli in Royal Hill for likeminded locals with a desire for a place to go to relax and enjoy good coffee and comfort food, became a reality for husband and wife team, Reinaldo and Kate Vargas. Running a successful café and deli was a million miles away from their previous lives, in truth just under 7000 miles, as it all started in Buenos Aries, Argentina. Reinaldo, originally from Argentina, spent years dancing and choreographing cabaret shows in more countries than he can remember. Naturally, his favourite dance was the tango, which he danced with his English wife Kate across the world, and this marriage of cultures and Kate’s business head boded well for their future together. Reinaldo gave up his globetrotting lifestyle, not for a quiet life but a different type of excitement as a war correspondent, before utilising his photographic skills to become a well-known member of the paparazzo, spending hours in clubs and restaurants for that perfect shot. This insight into the restaurant business gave him food for thought; in 2005, he and Kate opened their first restaurant.

There’s no doubting this couple are passionate about food and creating the right environment. The café in Royal Hill has a comfortable, European feel with sofas and a welcome for small children making it family friendly. The walls are decked with Reinaldo’s photographs inspired by the 1930/50 Argentinian life. Two years later, having found the perfect position for their next venture: an Argentinian restaurant in Blackheath Village, they went ahead. The bijou restaurant gives the appearance of being small, which is deceptive as there is more space below (great for parties) and during the warmer months the outdoor space is very popular. They opened on Mother’s Day, 2007, with customers queuing around the block; a good omen and they felt sure the restaurant would be successful, which it has. Running two businesses would be enough for most couples, but no; they had the idea of combining the café with a restaurant for an all-day dining experience. By now, Kate’s brother Martin had come on board. As one of the founders and, for many years, the publisher of the Rough Guides series of travel

A class act in three parts, full of passion and a love of good food

guides, his wealth of experience of eating out and love for food was invaluable. The third restaurant proved to be a challenge from the start, but after developing the dining area into a light and airy space (known as the Orangery) at the rear and creating a garden for the summer months, they opened in the heart of Greenwich in June last year. All three eateries offer the taste of Argentina and on 22 March at 6.30pm, in the Orangery, Nelson Road, you’ll be able to sample Argentinian wines with their first wine tasting event, alongside Argentinian wine producers on hand to explain each of the 7 wines on offer that evening. Buenos Aries also offer outdoor catering - with an Argentinian BBQ, or a cocktail party in your own home - perfect for the summer months ahead. Buenoairescafe www.buenosairescafe.co.uk 0208 858 9172 15 Nelson Road, Greenwich London SE10 9JB

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ME R IDIA N FO O D & DRINK

The Learning Loaf Baking Academy No prior baking experience is necessary just enthusiasm and a desire to make real bread! Graham Penn, founder of The Honest Loaf, has taken his artisan bakery to the next level with the launch of a new teaching academy The Learning Loaf. Run in partnership with Dr Maxine Room CBE, educational consultant, The Learning Loaf provides people with a hands-on way to experience the joys of sourdough bread making “The Academy provides a great way for people to learn life skills, meet like-minded people passionate about wholesome food, and raise awareness about good nutrition,” said Graham. At the first Learning Loaf course, attendees learned about the art of making artisan Sourdough bread using simple, honest ingredients in a fun, relaxed and engaging environment. “The course teacher and staff listened, explained and were a joy to be with,” said Dolcie Gibbs. Jules Turner, another participant said: “I really liked the togetherness, energy and the ability to get feedback.”

The Learning Loaf, which partners The Honest Loaf, continues its work with Charlton Manor Primary School where creativity is at the heart of its teaching. Headteacher Tim Baker kicked off the course with a few words explaining why he is passionate about nutrition and health: “I believe that if we teach young people why eating good food is important, this will lead to excellent habits going forward. That’s why I joined up with The Honest Loaf and why I fully support The Learning Loaf.

Enthusiastic bakers

The courses, held in the dedicated teaching kitchen in Charlton Manor Primary School, London SE7 include light refreshments and lunch. All ingredients, equipment and recipes are provided. The next course in making Artisan Sourdough bread is on Saturday 19 March. To find out more and book, visit www.thelearningloaf.com

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M E R IDIA N LOV E LO CAL

It’s a Dog’s Life Calling all dog lovers... be part of Meridian’s new photography competition. Simply tweet or e-mail us with your favourite doggie pic to #meridianlovelocaldogs for the chance to win great pouchie prizes, in the readers’ vote, cast at the end of this year. Each month we’ll publish the cutest, funniest or the most barking mad photos. Go on, join in the pack.

LOVE LOCA L

Coco, Charlton

Bandit, Eltham

Harvey, Lee

Jess, Sidcup

Oliver, Blackheath

Tweet your photo and dog’s name to #meridianlovelocaldogs or e-mail: win@meridian-magazine.co.uk www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N

ON THE RUN

BY JAMES HADDRELL, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF 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.

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.

GREENWICH MUSIC TRUST

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

As we continue with our season of work celebrating emerging female theatre makers, I spoke to Charlotte Watson, one of the stars of Engineer Theatre Collective’s production of RUN, about her work and the upcoming show. With so much discussed recently about the pay divide between male and female actors in cinema, what makes you want to carry on acting? It has been heartening recently to see successful actresses stepping forward and bemoaning the lack of equality in the film industry in Hollywood. Think Kristin Scott Thomas, Jennifer Lawrence and Jane Fonda. Miles away from the west coast of America both geographically and creatively, I am much better equipped to talk about the state-of-play in London theatre, though sadly here sexism and ageism also appear to be live and strong. However, one of the reasons I am still happy to pursue acting as a career is that I know there are pockets of creativity not biased towards gender, there are audiences who actively seek out shows with strong female leads, and there are companies who make sure that that is exactly what they deliver. Engineer Theatre Collective is one of those companies.

What is RUN all about? Inspired by the story of Moritz Erhardt, a young banking intern in the city of London who died after reportedly working 72 hours straight in 2012, RUN follows the progression of a young woman as she struggles to make her way through a similar internship. The question; how could one person with so much going for them succumb to the grueling timetable of the ‘magic roundabout’ without knowing the health risks it would pose? What are the lengths to which these overworked young adults will go to ensure they are successful? What should people expect from the show? RUN, the work of which I am most proud, has been on a very exciting journey spanning counties and countries, and has gone through many redevelopments along the way. While sadly we can’t claim to resolve Moritz’s story, we have been lucky enough to receive great reviews for the writing and the performances, and the show is as funny as it is bleak. Hopefully RUN is the kind of show that will entertain you but leave you talking for a long time afterwards.

Engineer Theatre Collective presents RUN – 8-12 March Box Office 020 8858 7755 www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk

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

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

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

The Greenwich Music Trust is a charitable body, chaired by Carolyn Roberts at Thomas Tallis School, set up to raise funds to support musically talented, disadvantaged children and young people within RBG schools. The Trust works closely with the Royal Greenwich Music Hub, which is funded by Arts Council England and provides a range of services, including instrumental tuition, classroom music and a range of extracurricular activities to over 5,000 young musicians in the borough. The Hub also organises the Instrumental Galas, held on an annual basis at Blackheath Halls - where lots of Greenwich children and young people enjoy the opportunity to perform and show case their musical talent.

EVERY 2ND SAT BOOK SALE

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

TANGOWORKOUT

EVERY SUN CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SOCIETY

BROMLEY GREEN GYM

BLACKHEATH QUAKERS

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

UNTIL SAT 9 APR WHERE IS MY MIND?

The work of Vaughan Oliver and the Pixies is the first major exhibition exploring the long-standing collaboration between legendary art director and designer Vaughan Oliver and the band the Pixies. Curated by Nic Clear, Head of Architecture and Landscape at Greenwich University. 020 8331 9954. Tues-Fri 11am-5pm; Sat 11am-4pm. Closed Easter Bank Holiday. ugg@gre. ac.uk.Open Stephen Lawrence Gallery, 10 Stockwell Street, Greenwich SE10 9BD.

TUES 8 – SAT 12 MAR END OF THE RAINBOW

This fiercely funny and emotionally charged play is filled with Garland ‘s legendary tenacity, razor-sharp wit and once-in-a-generation voice. Tues-Sat 7.30pm, Thurs & Sat mat 2.30pm. Tickets from £15. www. atgtickets.com/bromley. 0844 8717 620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

THURS 10 MAR BACH TO BABY

Classical Concert series for Baby and You. Be amazed at how your child will love Bach, Beethoven and Brahms. 4pm. £10. 020 8858 1749. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, SE3 7SE.

STORM WARNING & BLACKTOP DELUXE

Celebrating 10-years as one of the classiest UK rock, blues bands. 7.30-11.00 pm (no admission after 10.00 pm). £10 in advance/£12 on door. See www. thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.

THURS 10, 17, 24 MAR 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.

ZIPPO’S CIRCUS IS COMING TO BLACKHEATH FOR EASTER!

FRI 11 MAR JAZZ AT MYCENAE HOUSE

Great jazz club atmosphere and a reasonably priced bar. Featuring Sarah Bolter on sax. 8.30pm. £10 door. 90 Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE.

BEAVERWOOD PARTY NIGHT

DJ Dave Collins playing chart, club, soul and much more. Smart dress, 30+. 8pm-1am. £8, £10 non members. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.

FRI 11, 18, 25 MAR JAZZ AT THE PRINCE

Come along and enjoy some Trad jazz plus some good Italian homemade food. 1-3.30pm. Free. The Prince, 72 Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RT.

FRI 11 – SUN 13 COUNTRY TO COUTRY FESTIVAL

The UK and Irelands’s largest country music festival with America’s biggest stars including Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Kacey Musgraves and many more. For info re tickets, times etc visit www.theo2.co.uk. The O2,  Peninsula Square, Greenwich  SE10 0DX.

SAT 12 MAR HOW THE KOALA LEARNT TO HUG

Based on the best selling book by Steven Lee this charming musical about the magic of familyand, of course, the importance of a nice warm hug! 3pm. £7. For ages 3+. Running time 60 minutes. Box office 0208 463 0100. www.blackheathhalls.com. Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

Zippo’s presents a brand-new 2016 production, mixing the best of traditional circus with the freshest of intergalactic technology, it’s a top-quality family show to delight audiences of all ages! Including the amazing performing cats of french belle Roselyne, thrilling ceiling-walk and daring solo ‘flying’ trapeze of Alex Michael from Brazil and the incredible wheel of death of Germany’s duo Galaxy And much, much more, hosted as always by ringmaster and budgie-trainer Norman Barrett MBE. Zippo’s Circus will be under the astounding Mega Dome at Blackheath Common, Shooter’s Hill Rd., from Thursday 24 March to Tuesday 5 April. Discount tickets at www.zippos.co.uk or book by phone on 0871 210 2100.

FAMILY TICKETS

CARA DILLON

ONBLACKHEATH OnBlackheath returns 10 -11 September, in partnership with John Lewis, to bring you an unforgettable weekend of music, food, entertainment and arts for all. The line up includes performances from Primal Scream and Belle & Sebastian as well as Hot Chip, James, Roisin Murphyand the one and only Squeeze. The weekend will include food demonstrations from UK’s premiere chiefs alongside a wealth of pop up restaurants and bars. As well as roaming performers and interactive street theatre. Early Bird tickets now on sale via ticketmaster. www.onblackheath.com.

This extraordinary Irish singer makes music that transcends genres and crosses barriers. 8pm. £21/£19. Box office 0208 463 0100. www.blackheathhalls.com. Great Hall, Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

ST PATRICK’S DAY CÉILÍ

Back by popular demand! Live music from from Threepenny Bit and an expert caller to guide you through the steps. 7.30pm. £10/£7.50 concs. 020 8293 9741. Greenwich Dance, The Borough Hall, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RE.

SAT 12, 19, & 26 MAR UP THE CREEK LUNCHTIME JAZZ

Live Jazz hosted by Dave Silk and featuring a formidable house band every weekend. 1-3.30pm. Free. Up the Creek, 302 Creek Road, SE10 9SW.

We have five Family Tickets (2 adults and 2 children) to give away to lucky winners. To enter go to www.meridian-magazine. co.uk/win, or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to win@meridian-magazine.co.uk or send a postcard with your details to Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE.

Zippo’s Circus will notify winners and will arrange their prize seats subject to availability. The organisers’ decision is final. Data protection note: It is a condition of entry that competitors permit the circus to hold their contact details; those details will not be passed to any third party, but Zippo’s may send entrants promotional material.

SUN 13 MAR U.DANCE 2016: LONDON REGIONAL

Join youth dance companies as they perform in a range of styles for a place at U.Dance 2016 in Salford, a 3-day festival of youth dance from across the country. 7pm. £6, £4. www.trinitylaban.ac.uk. 020 8463 0100. Laban Theatre, Laban Building, Creekside, Deptford SE8 3DZ.

SUN 13, 20 & 27 MAR SWINGTIME AT THE PRINCE

Live Jazz and real ales plus Italian food. 1-3.30pm. Free. The Prince, 72 Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RT.

TUES 15 MAR GREENWICH INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SOCIETY

An evening about the Greenwich and Woolwich Foot Tunnels. 7.30pm. Non member £1. The Old A celebration of the greatest female singer songwriters Bakehouse (rear of Age Exchange), Bennett Park, SE3. No parking. of all time including Joni Mitchell, Carole King, Kate Bush, Amy Winehouse, Adele… 7.30pm. Tickets from £18. www.atgtickets.com/bromley. 0844 8717 620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

FIRST LADIES OF SONG

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W H AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N BLACKHEATH SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY

Sensors in the body – post-op chips, to monitor how well your operation went without having to return to hospital for check-ups. 7.45pm. Visitors welcome with a donation of £3. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, SE3 7SE.

COMEDY NIGHT NISH KUMAR: WORK IN PROGRESS

Visit Hall Place and Gardens where you will be able to walk amongst stunning free flying butterflies from around the world in a rainforest environment full to the brim with beautiful exotic flowers. Open in the glasshouses of Hall Place every day, all stages of the butterfly’s incredible life cycle can be observed from egg laying, fascinating caterpillars and incredible pupae, from which visitors will be able to see the adult butterflies hatch. There will be feeding stations where you can observe fruit feeding species. A butterfly expert will also be on hand to explain all. Open every day, 10am – 5:00pm (Last entry into the butterfly house 4.00pm). £4 adults, £3 children. No need to book. Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ www.bexleyheritagetrust.org.uk/hallplace/butterfly-jungles/

THURS 17 MAR SUSPICIOUSLY ELVIS: UNPLUGGED

Recreation of Elvis in his 70’s Las Vagas pomp. Dinner and show £30.

TUES 15 – SAT 19 MAR LORD OF THE FLIES

William Golding’s 20th century classic Lord of the Flies explodes onto the stage in a remarkable production. Tues - Sat eve 7.30pm; Wed – Sat mat 2.30pm. Tickets from £15. www.atgtickets.com/bromley. 0844 8717 620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

THURS 17 MAR SUSPICIOUSLY ELVIS: UNPLUGGED

Recreation of Elvis in his 70’s Las Vagas pomp. 9.15pm. Dinner and show £30. www1.boisdale. co.ukBoisdale, Cabot Place, Canary Wharf E14 4QT.

TRINITY LABAN WIND ORCHESTRA

American conductor Keith Brion leads the orchestra in a concert celebrating the work of American military composer John Philip Sousa. 7.30pm. £5. Box office 0208 463 0100. www.blackheathhalls.com. Great Halls, Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

DIZZY LIZZY

Celebrate the life and times of Thin LIzzy & Phil Lynott. £10 in advance/£12 on door. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.

FRI 18 MAR WALKNG TOURS: THE GREAT FIRE OF LONDON

Samuel Pepys experienced the Great Fire of 1666 first-hand and left a dramatic account of events in his famous diries. Using his words and other records, this walk explores how the fire started and progressed. 11am-1.30pm. Location confirmed on booking. Adults only. £15, £12 members. www.rmg.co.uk. 020 8858 4422.

BLACKHEATH FLOWER CLUB Fun with flowers. Jane Patterson – Happy Days. 2-4pm. £5. Mycenae House, Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE.

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC GROUP: THE DEPTFORD DIARIES

New pieces for small orchestra composed in response to the exhibition Samuel Pepys: Plague, Fire, Revolution. Performed by the Trinity Laban Contemporary Music Group, conducted by Gregory Rose. 7.30pm. Free but ticketed. Sammy Offer Wing, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich SE10.

SAT 19 MAR ALTERNATIVE ST PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATIONS

Explore Cutty Sark and sing along to traditional Irish folk songs with the Cut & Shine Ceilidh Band. 7pm. £25/£20 students. . www.rmg.co.uk. Cutty Sark Studio Theatre, Cutty Sark Ship, Greenwich.

SUN 20 MAR SING-A-LONG-A FROZEN

A full screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on the screen. Introduced by a live host to guide you through this interactive screening showing you how to use your free prop bag. 3.30pm. Tickets £14. www. atgtickets.com/bromley. 0844 8717 620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

LEWISHAM CHORAL SOCIETY

Mendelssohn’s Elijah with the Derbyshire singers and the Forest Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Dan Ludford-Thomas.7.30pm. £15-£30. www.fairfield. co.uk or 020 8688 9291.Fairfield Halls, Park Lane, Croydon, Surrey CR9 1DG.

SING-A-LONG-A GREASE

Sing along screening of the classic film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. You’ll even get a chance to learn how to jive. 7.30pm. Tickets from £14. www.atgtickets.com/bromley. 0844 8717 620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

A PAIR OF TICKETS

Blaze Ensemble with music from Nielson and Beethoven. 1.10pm. Free with retiring collection for the benefit of Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

STEINBERG STUDIO CHAMBER MUSIC

Nish has achieved huge success on the stand-upcircuit at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. 7.45pm. £12.50. www.rmg.co.uk. Cutty Sark Studio Theatre, Cutty Sark Ship, Greenwich.

BUTTERFLY JUNGLES

MON 21 MAR BLACKHEATH HALLS LUNCHTIME RECITALS

Piano Quartet by Mozart & Strauss. 6pm. £10 booked in advance on line at www.steinbergduo.com. Steinberg Studio, 137 Vanbrugh Hill, Greenwich SE10 9HP.

TUES 22 MAR BACH TO BABY

Classical Concert series for Baby and You founded by concert pianist and mum, Miaomiao Yu. 10.30am. £10. 020 8858 1749. Bromley United Reformed Church, 20 Widmore Road, Bromley BR1 1RY.

LIVE AT TRINITY LABAN: LEWISHAM LIVE

Join children and young people from across Lewisham for this highlight event of the annual Lewisham Live Festival. 7.30pm. £6. www.trinitylaban.ac.uk. 020 8463 0100. Laban Theatre, Laban Building, Creekside, Deptford SE8 3DZ.

THURS 24 MAR BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY What happens behind the scenes at those special exhibitions in a contemporary art gallery? Everything from living artists themselves to the insurance costs – all will be revealed in today’s insider’s lecture.Refreshments 2pm for 2.30pm. Visitors £7. Refreshments. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk. St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackheath SE3.

THE ROLLIN STONED – EASTER SPECIAL

All the eclectic classics that you love. £12 in advance/£13 on door. See www.thebeaverwoodclub. co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.

TO SEE KATE RUSBY Kate is returning to Blackheath Halls with her Spring tour this April. Touring with her will be her hugely talented band of musicians performing songs from her back catalogue stretching over 20-years and tracks from her extremely popular 2014 album ‘Ghost’. Kate Rusby. Sat 9 April 8pm. Great Hall, Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ. www.blackheathhalls.com.

Meridian have a pair of tickets to give away to one lucky reader and 4 runners up will receive a copy of her latest CD. To enter go to www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/win, or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to win@meridian-magazine. co.uk or send a postcard with your details to Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE

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

SEAL AND 10CC

Greenwich Music Time has confirmed its full line-up for this summer’s event as it prepares to return to the World Heritage-listed site of The Old Royal Naval College from 5-10 July. Soul superstar Seal and one of the biggest bands of the 70s 10cc will complete this year’s line-up which will run; Tuesday 5 July - 2Cellos, Wednesday 6 July – Seal, Thursday 7July - Joe Bonamassa, Friday 8 July – Roxette, Saturday 9 July - 10cc and will close on Sunday 10 July with Jamie Cullum,  Support from Andreya Triana and Jacob Collier. Tickets are available from www.greenwichmusictime.co.uk or by calling 0844 499 9999.

FRI 25 MAR PERFORMANCE CLASS

For budding musicians, vocalist, poets & dancers. Bring your vocal talent, your poem or even a cello to enhance your presentation skills amongst like-minded souls in this informal, fun setting. 8pm. £5. Shrewsbury House, Community Centre, Bushmoor Crescent, Shooters Hill SE18 3EG.

BEAVERWOOD PARTY NIGHT

FRI 25 MAR – 10 APRIL EASTER FAMILY FUN @ HEVER CASTLE

Family entertainment throughout the Easter holidays including an Easter trail and craft workshops. Event supported by Lindt chocolate. For more info visit www.hevercastle.co.uk. Hever Castle, Nr Endenbridge Kent TN8 7NG.

SAT 26 MAR GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB

Bridges of London Westminster to Tower - A self guided walk meeting at Westminster tube station allow 3 hours for the walk. Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details and how to get a printed route. New members welcome.

SUN 27 MAR LIVE JAZZ & EASTER LUNCH

Jazznights hosts live jazz while a celebrity chef will serve a wonderful meal for the perfect lunch. 1-4pm. £35. Reservations 020 8300 1385. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst Kent BR7 6HF.

FRI 1 APR CHASING THE WHALE: KINGS OF THE SOUTH SEAS

A whaler’s life from the era of Moby Dick brought to life through music, narration and film with Tim Eriksen and Philip Hoare. 7.30, 9.30pm. £18. www.rmg.co.uk. Cutty Sark Studio Theatre, Cutty Sark Ship, Greenwich.

FRI 8 – SAT 9 APR CALLING LOCAL ARTISTS

We are looking for local artist to exhibit and sell their work. This year’s theme is ‘SE7’ - All aspects of Charlton Old and New. This year’s Friends of Charlton House Art Show will be held on the evening of Friday and all day Saturday. If you would like more information please contact Gill on gmcooper@btinternet.com or call 020 8244 3013. The Old Library, Charlton House, Charlton Village SE7.

SAT 9 APR FREE TALK ON CHRISTIAN SCIENCE:

Can Prayer be Effective in Healing? Brian Kissock CBS. 3pm. Everyone Welcome. The Quaker Meeting House, Lawn Terrace, Blacheath SE3 9LL.

SAT 9 - MON 25 APR BLACKHEATH MUSIC FESTIVAL

Don’t miss the 2nd Blackheath International Chamber Music Festival featuring six chamber music concerts and an art workshop in Blackheath with internationally renowned classical musicians. Visit www.bicmfestival.co.uk for information about the artists and programme. Tickets on the door: £15 Adult, 65+ £13, Friends of Age Exchange £11, Student £5, Under 18 Free. Discounted tickets available until 31 March on Eventbrite.co.uk

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ME RID IA N ART & DESIGN

The Printmakers Gallery Meridian talks to Kit Boyd, Printmaker - etching and aquatint How did it all start? In January 1979, a small group of artist-printmakers formed the nucleus of (what was to become) the very successful co-operative gallery in the heart of Greenwich - the Greenwich Printmakers Association. They had borrowed a friend’s shop in Turnpin Lane for a weekend’s exhibition at Christmas and, excited by the response from local residents keen to buy their original prints (etchings, lithographs, relief and screen-prints), set up a permanent gallery there which remianed for six years until they moved into their current premises at 1A Greenwich Market; and they are still there 31 years later. How many printmakers are there now? At present, there are 34 printmakers who make up the established Greenwich Printmakers. This number rarely changes, as when one artist leaves another takes their place. Any new artist would have their work scrutinised by a panel of 10 printmakers before joining the group. Such is the reputation of Greenwich Printmakers, any vacancy is hotly sought after. In fact, several of the artists have exhibited at The Royal Academy of Arts’ Summer Exhibitions. This is your studio, where do the other artists work? The printmakers’ work at various local studios near Greenwich and keep a selection of their work at the gallery. Each day, one of the 34 artists will take a turn in working at the gallery. Offering a rare opportunity for anyone to talk to one of the artists about their work and that of the other artists, while viewing work at the gallery. How does the group run its business? They formed a cooperative to run the business side, which incorporates the gallery in Greenwich Market and periodic exhibitions across London, as well as the annual attendance at the Affordable Art Fair, Battersea. The printmakers select work to be shown in the gallery and it’s a very democratic group of artists, we meet a couple of times a month to discuss business and the featured artists are selected purely by alphabet. Kit Boyd at his press March Featured Artists

Kit’s background is in fine art and photography, after taking a course in etching at Morley College, he started to produce etching in 2011. His work is mainly landscapes: a combination of his relationship with nature and surrealism, creating a refuge from the fast pace of the modern world. To see a selection of Kit’s work, visit the Greenwich Printmakers Gallery

www.greenwich-printmakers.co.uk 020 8858 1569 Greenwich Printmakers Gallery, 1A The Market, Greenwich SE10 9HZ Anthony Salter

Sue Rowling

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M E R IDIA N PRO PERT Y

John Payne opens new office in east Greenwich

Help to Buy £25k

£100k

£375k

£500k

Help to Buy - The Government has created the Help to Buy scheme to help people take steps to buy their own home. The scheme includes:

John Payne Estate Agents, part of The Acorn Group, have opened a new office in east Greenwich, complementing existing offices in west Greenwich, Blackheath Village, Blackheath Standard and Lee Sue Denny, Branch Manager of the new office said: “We’ve always served the residents of east Greenwich from our west Greenwich office so we already know the area inside out, but the rapid expansion and regeneration in the area has meant we need have needed to grow as well, to keep up with demand. The launch of this new super office not only means we will be better able to serve the needs of local sellers, buyers, landlords and tenants, but also those further afield who will benefit from the shared cross-brand marketing within the group.” “The new office isn’t just a result of increased residential growth in Greenwich,” says Sue. “It’s also one of the physically biggest offices in the group, as it will also become the new home of our property management team, who have quickly outgrown their previous space in Blackheath Village - having seen a 300% increase in managed stock portfolio.” To celebrate the opening of the new office, we’ve also just published an exciting publication called “Best Kept Secrets”, highlighting some of the best reasons to live and work in the area. Visit johnpayne.com/bestkeptsecrets or pop into the new office to pick a copy up for free. For more information, contact John Payne East Greenwich on 020 3846 1414 or visit johnpayne.com

A Help to Buy: ISA, which pays first-time buyers a government bonus, up to a maximum of £3,000, boosting your ISA savings of £12,000 to £15,000. Equity loans are available to first time buyers, as well as homeowners looking to move. The home you want to buy must be newly built with a price tag of up to £600,000. With a Help to Buy: equity loan the Government lends you up to 20% of the cost of your new-build home, so you’ll only need a 5% cash deposit and a 75% mortgage to make up the rest. You won’t be charged loan fees on the 20% loan for the first five years of owning your home.

East Greenwich For such an ancient and historic town, east Greenwich is also modernising and undergoing a massive building boom that is bringing new riverside homes and developments on its brown field sites. Local schools in east Greenwich: the best-rated schools in tight catchment areas, push up the prices in the surrounding streets. The local demographics show that the area is home to young professionals and families alike. Fulfilling their needs for an easy commute, quality choice of retail stores, local restaurants and nightlife.

Or a mortgage supported by the Help to Buy: mortgage guarantee scheme works in exactly the same way as any other mortgage, except that under the scheme the Government offers lenders the option to purchase a guarantee on mortgage loans. Because of this support, lenders taking part are able to offer homebuyers more high-loan-tovalue mortgages (80-95%) making it easier to obtain a mortgage for first time buyers. Find out more at www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk