issue 338 // 8 – 21 April 2016 // Every fortnight issue 334 // 12 – 25 February 2016 // Every fortnight
New leisure centre is a knockout Thumbs up from users (p19)
“Thanks to work experience at London City Airport, I started my career in hospitality� Helder Camo, Manor Park, Restaurant Supervisor.
Through expansion, London City Airport will create more opportunities for local people to develop skills. Find out more at lcymeansbusiness.com
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contents 8 April 2016 // issue 338
F Figures revealed recently have shown tthat Newham residents have the lowest chance of surviving cancer. In lo tthis edition of the Newham Mag you can see how one new health centre is c helping with early detection (p12). h Read also how ho Newham Council can take much of the credit for turning the tide of deprivation that has existed here for many years (p8) and also what you can do to deter those who want to dirty our borough by dropping litter (p11). Our private rented sector licensing team recently closed a house of horrors. You can see the shocking pictures (p15). Discover how 83-year-old Barbara Hamilton is proving that age is no barrier to singing (p16). The new Atherton Leisure Centre in Stratford is now open. See what people are saying about the state-of-the-art facility (p19). If you like being well read, then see how you can join activities for World Book Night on 23 April (p21).
Regulars 04 NEWS – two pages of news from across the borough 06 MAYOR’S VIEW – news from Sir Robin Wales 16 WORKING LIVES – in good voice 22 OUR NEWHAM – community news 24 KIDS CORNER – pictures and puzzles for our younger readers 26 WHAT’S ON – five pages of activities and events, most of them free
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Councillor Frances Clarke Cabinet member for financial inclusion and health promotion Keep in touch with Newham Council via:
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www.newham.gov.uk
Features 08 ENDING DEPRIVATION – transforming lives 11 TIDY EFFORT – don’t drop litter 12 CANCER CARE – early detection vital 15 HOUSE OF HORRORS – unfit home closed 19 AT YOUR LEISURE – new centre opens 21 A NEW CHAPTER – book in for fun
@NewhamLondon www.facebook.com/newhamcouncil
To contact the Newham Mag team email newham.mag@newham.gov.uk or call 020 3373 1517 PUBLICATIONS OFFICER: Kay Atwal STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER: Andrew Baker To advertise in the Mag call Julie Madell on 07890 529 090 If you do not receive the Newham Mag at home, or know someone who doesn’t, please call 020 3373 1517, write to The Newham Mag, West Wing, 4th Floor, Newham Dockside, Dockside Road, London E16 2QU, or email newham.mag@newham.gov.uk
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IN BRIEF // Three fined for Blue Badge abuse Three men have been found guilty of Blue Badge misuse after a Newham Council enforcement officer caught them trying to park for free in Forest Gate and Manor Park in October 2015. Davinder Rehinsi, 63, from Ilford, was fined £440 after being convicted by magistrates at Thames Court in his absence. The court heard he had bought the disability parking badge in a pub. It had already been cancelled by its owner. Kalvinder Sehmi, 52, from Ilford, admitted using his deceased grandmother’s badge. He was fined £300. Sandhu Singh, 60, from Chigwell, admitted using his deceased father’s badge. He was fined £336. All three were also ordered to pay £130 costs and a victim surcharge.
Discussion on health changes Residents are invited to a public meeting to discuss how the National Health Service meets the needs of local people now and in the future. The meeting is being organised by Newham Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) on 14 April at Stratford Old Town Hall, Broadway, E15, between 5.30pm and 8pm. The CCG will reveal how they propose to transform the way that community health services such as community nursing, physiotherapy, podiatry, health visitors, and specialist services for people with diabetes, are delivered. Residents, patients who use community services, and NHS staff are invited. You can a book a place at www.eventbrite.co.uk by searching for Newham CCG.
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Cheque cares for casualties Deputy Mayor Councillor Cllr Hudson presents the cheque Lester Hudson presented a cheque for £7,000 on behalf of Newham Council to the Care for Casualties charity. Care for Casualties is an appeal run by The Rifles Regimental Trust, which provides welfare and support to those injured during conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Councillor Hudson presented the cheque to G Company 7 Rifles at The Cedars Army Reserve Centre in West Ham during an open evening to showcase what being a Reservist has to offer. The money was raised during collections at community events staged by the council, including the Under the Stars music nights. Councillor Hudson said: “Care for Casualties offers support and inspiration to families who have lost loved ones and to those who have been injured and are rebuilding their lives. We thank residents and businesses whose donations have helped show our appreciation for this courage and sacrifice.”
Howzat! Kids bowl them over Pupils from Elmhurst Primary School in Forest Gate have bowled and batted their way to a prestigious trophy at the historic home of cricket. The youngsters won the grand final of the British Land Capital Kids Cricket League tournament, staged at the MCC Indoor School at Lord’s Cricket Ground. After a series of competitive and closely fought matches against teams Cllrs Hussain and Abdulmuhit present the trophy from seven other boroughs, they lifted the winner’s trophy. British Land has supported the league since 2006. This year’s competition attracted 2,700 girls and boys from 152 primary schools across 14 boroughs. Councillors Forhad Hussain and Hanif Abdulmuhit presented them with their trophy. Councillor Hussain, Cabinet member for commercial opportunities, said: “This is the largest children’s cricket competition in the UK. The Elmhurst pupils have worked hard over five months of inter-borough competition to win the trophy. It’s a marvellous achievement.”
Pupils are branching out Children at Vicarage Primary School in East Ham have planted more than 100 saplings as part of their learning about caring for their environment. Pupils in classes from reception age to Year 6 introduced bird cherry, elder, spindle bush, oak, crab apple, hazel and hawthorn saplings grown from seed, into their new school garden to create a barrier between surrounding houses. There is also a new greenhouse, hedgerows and planters around the school. The pupils received certificates for their help in creating a habitat for wildlife and reducing their carbon footprint and encouraging biodiversity. School business manager Sandy Tomlinson said: “The children gained hands-on experience of how trees are planted and learned how important trees are to the world in which we live. They all had a fantastic time.”
Pupils dig in
Bags of support for garden project Shoppers at supermarket Tesco Extra in Beckton have voted for a community garden project in Upton Park to receive a £12,000 grant raised by the store’s 5p plastic bag levy. The store offered more than £30,000 to support environmental projects under its Bags of Help initiative. Shoppers voted for the lion’s share to go to the Boleyn Road Community Garden project, which is transforming derelict land into a place where residents can grow their own produce. Mayor Sir Robin Wales handed over a cheque to representatives of the scheme, which is supported by Newham Council’s Green Street The Mayor hands out cheques community neighbourhood team. Kensington School in Manor Park and the Shipman Youth Centre in Canning Town are also benefiting. Councillor Ken Clark, Cabinet member for building communities, public affairs, regeneration and planning, said: “The Boleyn Gardens scheme is a fantastic community project. I am delighted Tesco shoppers recognised the benefits of it.”
Let’s party for The Queen Newham Council is offering a helping hand for residents looking to hold community parties or events that celebrate The Queen’s 90th birthday. Funding is available from now until the end of the summer for events that are open to the whole community and bring people from different backgrounds together. Support is available through the council’s Let’s Get The Party Started scheme where grants of up to £250
can be applied for. Residents must be 16 or over and are advised to apply at least eight weeks ahead of their event to ensure that their application can be processed. Councillor Ken Clark, Cabinet member for building communities, public affairs, regeneration and planning, said: “This is a great opportunity for residents to join in the celebrations. Once again we are offering support to those seeking to hold events that bring people together.” To apply go to www.newham.gov.uk/party
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New centre fulfils a promise The fantastic new Atherton Leisure Centre in Stratford is gong to be a great place for both kids and adults to visit. And when I opened the new building last week I was fulfilling a promise that I made to residents. When the decision was taken at the end of 2011 to close the centre, some people were intent on saying it would never return because, according to them, we had no money to replace it. I promised everyone it would be back for the benefit of all. I can now say I told you so.
“The opening of the new £14.7 million centre shows not only our commitment to help residents lead fit and active lives, but that we also deliver on our promises.” The opening of the new £14.7 million centre shows not only our commitment to help residents lead fit and active lives, but that we also deliver on our promises. Protests that were waged at the time through the media were malicious, misleading and misguided. When this council says we are going to do something, we mean it. I personally promised that there would be a state-of-the-art facility that is
Opening the new centre
fit for purpose, modern and accessible. What we had before wasn’t. We looked at how we could keep the original 1934 building open, but with the extent of the repairs needed, it would have been money down the drain. Residents deserve better than us wasting money by continually patching up what was there. The fantastic new centre in Romford Road has a 25-metre six-lane main pool and a 20-metre training pool, a gym with the latest exercise equipment, two fitness studios, a group cycling studio, café, crèche and soft play area. It has step
free access throughout. But the building of the centre is not the only promise that has been delivered. I also said that it would create jobs for local people. Mulalley, the contractors who built the centre, employed 73 Newham residents on full-time contracts over the life of the project, and they did that through our employment service Workplace. Eighteen local people have also now been hired to work at the centre. Hundreds of residents have already signed up to be members. I’m glad because it proves that we never break a promise.
Mayor’s view 06
Standing up for our schools I am proud of the excellent standard of education offered by our schools and early years services where we have seen a massive improvement in performance. According to Government data, our youngest children develop faster here than across the rest of the country and at A-level, our overall pass rate is higher than the national pass rate. Sir Michael Wilshaw, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and a former head teacher in the borough, has praised the role played by councils like us in championing this success.
“The turnaround in our schools has radically changed the life chances of some of our most deprived children.”
schools in England and Wales is currently unfair with some areas receiving more resources than others. Instead of increasing the money available for places that need more funding, this new formula could see our schools receive less. On top of that, the Government has announced plans to introduce the academisation of all schools by 2020, completely removing the council’s role in working with schools to drive improvement and meet local need. The proposed new funding formula follows a campaign by local authorities largely from affluent shire counties.
Their plans could see Newham lose £30 million, while the 30 least deprived areas in England could receive a windfall totalling £200 million. The turnaround in our schools has radically changed the life chances of some of our most deprived children. These achievements are now under attack and we won’t stand for it. The Government has not yet published how they intend to consult with councils over the proposed change, but when they do, be assured, we will do everything we can to protect what we have. I would urge everyone to support us in doing that.
With students at Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre last August on exams results day
We have always prioritised investment in education. Innovative, evidence-based programmes such as our free school meals scheme and Newham’s reading guarantee, in which we fund one-to-one support for pupils who have fallen behind, are a key part of our success story. Yet proposals launched recently by the Government show a clear disregard for the aspirations of our poorest children. They plan to introduce a national fairer funding formula because they consider that funding amongst
with Sir Robin Wales
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Deprivation becomin The part of the East End covered by Newham and its predecessor authorities East Ham and West Ham has long suffered from years of chronic deprivation, despite its location in one of the most affluent cities in the world. Since the late 19th century when social reformer Charles Booth identified us as one of London’s most deprived neighbourhoods, poverty has persisted here. But that’s changing, and Newham Council deserves most of the credit. The council’s Cabinet heard last month that, according to the Government’s latest indices of deprivation, we went from the being the second most deprived local authority in England to 25th. We have also gone from having 31 per cent of our neighbourhoods being regarded as highly deprived, to eight per cent. The indices look at poverty across a number of indicators and use the information to work out what areas are the most deprived, and ranks them relative to others. Newham’s position is a massive improvement on when the statistics were last measured in 2010.
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We are in a better position than some of our nearest neighbours. Tower Hamlets have remained at third, Hackney have moved from first to 11th, while Barking and Dagenham have moved from 20th to ninth.
“We are now entitled to say that we have transformed lives and will continue to do so.” Mayor Sir Robin Wales said: “The legacy of inequality and deprivation had left Newham lagging far behind the rest
of the Capital on a number of measures. Compared to the average Londoner, people here tended to die younger, earn less and have fewer qualifications. They were more likely to be unemployed, live in overcrowded accommodation or be a victim of crime. That’s changing and Newham Council can take a huge share of the credit for that. We are now entitled to say that we have transformed lives and will continue to do so.” The statistics are based around income, employment, health, disability, crime and living standards. They are based on information gathered over the
n g a thing of the past 2012/13 financial year and confirm that the council has made considerable strides in tackling deep-rooted inequalities, despite an unprecedented reduction in funding from the Government.
“Our approach has always been based on tackling the root causes of deprivation such as poor housing, conditions, poor educational attainment, lack of training and skills and unemployment.” Added the Mayor: “Our approach has always been based on tackling the root causes of deprivation such as poor housing, conditions, poor educational attainment, lack of training and skills and unemployment. That’s because we believe this is the way out of poverty for our residents.” A key driver of the improvement has been rising levels of employment,
supported by initiatives such as Workplace, the council’s jobs brokerage, which has helped almost 30,000 people into work. According to the council’s Newham Household Panel Survey, 73% of working age residents are now employed, up from 59 per cent in 2011. We are now in line with the national average. The Government’s Social Mobility Index, which sets out the differences between where children grow up and the chances they have of doing well in adult life, shows that Newham is now home to some of England’s most impressive schools. This combination of improving school performance with improved employment prospects means we are now in the top 20 per cent of places nationally for social mobility. The council continues to tackle deprivation on other fronts. Forty per cent of Newham residents live in the private rented sector where spiralling rents are driving people into squalor and overcrowding. Our private rented sector
licensing scheme is reducing the number of unsafe and insecure houses, forcing out unscrupulous landlords and driving up standards. The council’s free school meals programme is putting money back into the pockets of hard working parents while making sure children get a nutritious healthy meal that equips them for learning throughout the day and can go on to succeed in life.
“We will continue to equip our residents with the resilience and tools they need to overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations.” Said the Mayor: “We know the challenge we still face is tremendous, but we will continue to equip our residents with the resilience and tools they need to overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations.”
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The atmosphere at UEL is awesome. It’s a brilliant course with interesting guest speakers and an amazing scholarship.
Join us at our Information Evening on 26th April: uel.ac.uk/pg
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6Q ƂPF QWV OQTG ECNN †FTQR KPVQ [QWT NQECN NGKUWTG EGPVTG QT XKUKV www.activeNewham.org.uk Atherton Leisure Centre, 4QOHQTF 4QCF (QTGUV )CVG ' ,(
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Don’t be a litter bug While Newham Council works hard to keep the borough clean as part of our new deal for residents, we need you to play your part as well. If you drop litter, it encourages others to do the same. Doing so damages the environment and encourages pests. The most commonly littered items are fast food boxes, chewing gum, drinks cans, cigarette packaging and butts. Newham has more than 1,800 public litter bins and as part of our new deal for the environment, we are committed to weekly rubbish collections. Despite that, some people still dirty the borough by dropping rubbish on the streets. We sweep every residential street twice a week and busy shopping areas continuously throughout the day, seven days a week. Main highways are cleaned daily and our parks are cleared of litter during the summer six days per week. During last year’s Budget Challenge consultation you told us you want to live in an area that is clean. That’s why we are investing even more into weekend
cleaning and tackling environmental crimes like littering. Littering is an offence and you could receive an £80 fixed penalty notice (FPN). Our enforcement officers issue notices to those caught dumping litter and rubbish. This year more than 1,000 have been issued to offenders and more than 50 people have been hauled before the courts.
“Have pride in your borough, so if you don’t spot a litter bin while you are out, keep hold of your rubbish until you do.” Councillor Ian Corbett, mayoral adviser for environment and leisure, said: “Our deal with residents is to continue to collect
rubbish weekly, but you can do your bit by disposing of your rubbish properly. Have pride in your borough, so if you don’t spot a litter bin while you are out, keep hold of your rubbish until you do.” If you live in a property with a timed collection zone, only put your rubbish out at the right time. Also look out for details of local clean up days organised by your Community Neighbourhood team.
Download the free Love Newham smartphone app to report those who dump rubbish by visiting www. newham.gov.uk/lovenewham or for more information visit www.newham.gov.uk/clean
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Figures revealed recently have shown that Newham residents have the lowest chance of surviving cancer. State-of-theart equipment at the Sir Ludwig Guttmann Health and Wellbeing Centre at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is providing the borough’s women with vital, convenient services that go a long way towards early detection of breast cancer.
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For many years women over 50 who were called for breast screening had to go to mobile units stationed in various car parks across the borough. Now, they can go to the Sir Ludwig Guttmann Health Centre in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which treated athletes taking part in the London 2012 Olympics. The building was used as the Medical and Doping Control Centre, treating top athletes from around the world. Designed with flexibility in mind, it transferred to the National Health Service in 2013 and is one of the two largest non-hospital NHS buildings in the country. The centre, known as SLG, began screening in June 2014 and has seen more than 10,600 women. It works with nurses from Canning Town-based charity Community Links, who call women five to seven days before their appointment, reminding them to attend and giving them information on how to get to the centre.
“The facilities here for everyone are so much better and should we have an emergency of any kind we can get help quickly because we are in a health centre.” Liz Mazura, breast superintendent radiographer for Barts Health NHS Trust, said: “Coming here is the difference between going on holiday in a static caravan or a five star hotel. “It is so much better here. We used to have problems trying to find a site to put the van. It was either in a supermarket car park or at a health centre but we were reliant on their goodwill. We had to get water and electricity and even then, sometimes the power would be interrupted. “The facilities here for everyone are so much better and should we have an emergency of any kind we can get help quickly because we are in a health centre. “We have permanent IT links so we can send things down the line so the whole process is quicker for everybody and that means we are screening a larger volume of women. That is important because there are more people in the
Charity workers Yasmin Begum and Zoraida Colorado
age group that needs screening.” Councillor Frances Clarke, who has herself experienced breast cancer, is the Cabinet member with responsibility for promoting health and in particular the increased take-up of screening programmes by Newham residents.
“it is important that we prioritise our own health and that we do everything we can to stay healthy.” She said: “I know from my own experience that it is vital that we all take every step possible to ensure that we catch cancer early and going to your screening appointment is an important part of this. For women, in particular, it is important that we prioritise our own health and that we do everything we can to stay healthy.” Loreen Phillip, 58, from Manor Park, has experience of using both the mobile screening unit and the services at the Sir Ludwig Guttmann centre. She said: “When I turned 50 I asked to be screened and was told I had to wait until the van came to my area and that meant I had to wait three years because they check you every three years. “My cousin died from breast cancer a few years ago and that scared me so I always checked my breasts and I could feel a lump in my left breast. I went to my doctor and she said she could feel it so I was referred.” Loreen had the lump, which proved to be malignant, removed four years ago. She said: “It is very important to check your breasts. If you feel anything different or you feel something that you are not happy with, just go to your GP.” She has been to the SLG for screening since then and has found the location easy to get to, involving a bus journey to Stratford and another bus to the centre which is at 40 Liberty Bridge Road.
Loreen Phillip with radiographer Abi Odun Falola
Abi Odun Falola checks equipment
Radiographers Abi Odun Falola
and Agnes Wesowicz
The centre
Anyone interested in volunteering to help raise awareness of breast cancer can contact frances. clarke@newham.gov.uk
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Closing the door on ‘house of horrors’ Part of Newham Council’s new deal for residents is a quality housing offer, and that includes improving private rented accommodation by licensing every landlord and dealing with rogues who flout the rules. Recently we closed a threebedroomed property dubbed the “house of horrors”. Officers from the council’s private rented sector licensing team were shocked by the dangerous and dilapidated state of the property in Manor Park, which was being rented out for £700 per month to a couple with two young children. The family had to live on the ground floor because the rest of the home had been partially gutted for renovation work. Council officers found exposed electrical wiring, walls stripped back to the brick work and ceilings missing from upstairs bedrooms. Chimney breasts had been removed in downstairs rooms occupied by the family, but no steel supports had been put in place. A fridge freezer was in
use in the back garden and there was a bath in the kitchen. The council issued a prohibition notice banning the landlord from letting the house until it is safe. He is being prosecuted for failing to have a licence and for poor management of the property. He could also be prosecuted if he allows anyone to live there before it is safe. Mayor Sir Robin Wales said: “This was truly a house of horrors. It was unsafe. Ceilings could have collapsed at any time, the wiring could have sparked a fire, but the landlord saw no problem in putting a family in danger, and charging them for it.” See a video of the property at www.newham.gov.uk/houseofhorrors
Newham Council became the first council in the country to introduce private rented sector licensing across the whole borough in January 2013. Since then: > more than 24,000 landlords have registered > 35,000 properties are licensed > more than 1,000 landlords have been prosecuted for failing to licence properties correctly or keep them in good condition > 28 landlords with multiple housing convictions, have been banned from managing properties in the borough. If you suspect a private rented property to be unlicensed, tell us by using our online form at www.newham.gov.uk/propertylicensing
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Age is no barrier to singing Supporting, protecting and enhancing the lives of vulnerable adults across the borough is one of Newham Council’s most important functions. Part of our New Deal for older residents is offering the support they may need to live as well as possible and be part of the community. Barbara Hamilton, 83, is a member of the Age Well Singers, a group of over-60s residents who are funded through the Aspers Good Causes Fund, set up by the council and Aspers Casino in Stratford to support projects that help residents build confidence and skills and improve community life.
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Chair of the group, Barbara has been a member for a decade. Although she has always been active through dance and keep fit, singing has become a lifeline particularly in the past three years since a leg operation left her with reduced mobility. Barbara said: “I was a nursery nurse
before I got married. Then I had my three children and when the youngest was four, I wanted to send them to nursery but there weren’t any so I started a playgroup. I have danced since I was 13. Well, you did in those days – it was after the war. When I had my children I couldn’t do it any more,
> WORKING LIVES when I joined. The oldest is 95 and the youngest is 75. We would like some new members, and you don’t have to be that age. Even if you can’t sing, that’s OK because I say if you can talk, you can sing. “Singing is good for your health, both physically and mentally because you have to remember the words. Even if you’re not feeling well when you go, once you start singing it seems to revitalise you. It’s good for chest complaints. It’s also really good for mixing with people of your own age.
“ Singing is my lifeline. It keeps me going otherwise I wouldn’t get out of the house”
Barbara Hamilton
so it wasn’t until they were older that I started dancing again. “I was always really active. I used to dance three times a week, keep fit twice a week and I used to sing whenever I could. I danced for 40 years until three years ago when I had an operation on my leg. I can’t dance any more so singing is
my lifeline. It keeps me going otherwise I wouldn’t get out of the house. “It’s also a lifeline for the people that come and listen to us. We go to the Stratford Circus arts centre every Thursday and practise from 12.30 to 1.30pm. There are nine of us now, although there was about 20 or 21
“I don’t have any professional singing experience but have always sung in the choir at St Stephen’s Church in Manor Park, and on cruises because I was always entering singing competitions.” The Age Well choir has been running for 20 years and is led by professional singing tutor Paul Weston. It has a broad repertoire of popular songs, from Broadway and Hollywood standards to The Beatles. The group give public concerts, including entertaining care home residents. Most recently the choir was at Westgate House care home in Stratford where the group sang classics such as Fly Me to the Moon, There’s a Kind of Hush, The Lady is a Tramp and Let’s Face the Music and Dance.
If you are interested in joining the group or booking it to perform at an event, please contact Barbara Hamilton on 020 8514 2042. New members, regardless of ability or previous experience, are also invited to rehearsals at Stratford Circus, Theatre Square, London E15 1BX
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What’s on in Newham Download the free app From reading groups to Tai Chi, CV writing to children’s films, there’s something for everyone in Newham’s Community Neighbourhoods. UÊÊÊ Ê iÌÊÌ iÊ >ÌiÃÌÊ iÜ > ÊiÛi ÌÃÊ> `Ê>VÌ Û Ì iÃÊ v À >Ì Ê delivered to your phone or tablet UÊÊ Û> >L iÊvÀiiÊvÀ Ê «« iÊ ««Ê-Ì ÀiÊ> `Ê `À `Ê } iÊ* >ÞÊ-Ì Ài Visit www.newham.gov.uk/communityevents
Wave of support for new leisure centre
The Mayor cuts the ribbon
A brand new £14.7 million Atherton Leisure Centre has now opened and the top class facilities have already been given the thumbs up by some of the first residents to have signed as members.
Umar Ali
Cllrs Corbett, Hudson and Clark
Mayor Sir Robin Wales cut a ribbon with Imtiaz Patel, 41, from Stratford, and his 13-year-old son Umar to launch the new facility that offers a 25-metre six-lane main pool, a 20-metre teaching pool, a gym with the latest exercise equipment, two fitness studios, a group cycling studio, café, crèche and soft play area. Imtiaz said: “It’s a fantastic new space and amazing for the local community. Anyone that doesn’t use the new leisure centre is missing out.”
“It’s a fantastic new space and amazing for the local community” Nishat Riaz, 40, from Forest Gate, was also among the first to visit. She said: “I’m really impressed by the modern state-of the-art building. It doesn’t feel like a typical council leisure centre.” Paul Vaughan, 39, also from Forest Gate, added: “I moved into the area when the old leisure centre closed down. We had heard positive things about it. I’m glad I signed up early so that I can enjoy using such a quality facility right near my home.” As well as providing top class leisure activity, the centre has also provided jobs for local people. Builders Mulalley employed 73
residents during the construction on the site of the original centre. Eighteen local people have also been hired to work at the centre. Sir Robin said: “This is proof that we deliver on our promises. The old centre was simply not fit for purpose and not good enough for our residents. Our residents deserve a modern, accessible, state of the art centre.” Deputy Mayor Councillor Lester Hudson and Councillor Ken Clark, Cabinet member for building communities, public affairs, regeneration and planning, were also at the opening alongside representatives from builders Mulalley and activeNewham, who manage the centre. Councillor Ian Corbett, mayoral adviser for environment and leisure, said: “We remain committed to providing a wide range of sport and activity opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.”
“Our residents deserve a modern, accessible, state of the art centre” Mulalley director, Eamon O’Malley, said: “I learned to swim here when it was known as West Ham Baths. I’m delighted to see such a wonderful facility replacing the former building. It can be enjoyed by future generations.”
For information on the Atherton Leisure Centre visit www.activeNewham.org.uk/Atherton 19
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#CouldYou?
0800 0130 393 www.newham.gov.uk/fostering
Newham’s ten libraries are places where people come together not just to read and learn things, but also to take part in a range of activities. They have teamed up with the council’s community neighbourhood teams to offer World Book Night and City Read London events. World Book Night on Saturday 23 April is an annual national celebration of reading. Our libraries will be giving away free books as well as hosting quizzes and book swaps. City Read London takes place throughout April and asks people to celebrate literature by reading together. This year’s themed book is Ten Days by Gillian Slovo.
City Read events Beckton See listings on page 26. Custom House > 5 Apr, 11.30am-12.30pm, Patrick Holland will be joining the coffee morning to talk about life in the Docks as a dock worker > 16 Apr, Ingeenium Creative Workshop, free family session. > 28 Apr, 4-pm-5.30pm, Afternoon tea with your safer neighbourhood team and councillors East Ham > 20 Apr, 6-7.30pm, London themed quiz night,
refreshments and a chance to win copies of Ten Days The Gate > 1-22 Apr, 10.30am-8pm. If you love books and want to take part in our first ever reading group, pick up a copy of Ten Days until 22 Apr and then join us to celebrate on 25 Apr. > 25 Apr, 5.30pm-7pm, Fun group discussion and readings of Ten Days Manor Park > 12 Apr, 11am-12pm, Celebrate City Read 2016 by hearing readings from Ten Days and a thriller based quiz. Prizes to be won. Plaistow > 28 Apr, 6-8pm. An evening of murder and mystery, free copies of Ten Days by Gillian Slovo, as well as prizes for this year’s ‘who done it’ performed by students from Lister School. For more information, contact the library on 020 3373 0859 or CN.Plaistow@ newham.gov.uk
World Book Night Custom House 3-5pm, World Book Night celebration, get a free book Canning Town 5-7pm, World Book Night celebration, get a free book North Woolwich 3-5pm, World Book Night celebration. Come along and pick up your free world book night title. Refreshments provided. East Ham 9am-8pm, Book Swap. 5.30pm, film adaptation of a popular book: people will vote throughout the week for either The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas or The Golden Compass. The Gate 5-6pm, readings by authors Derek Smith and Kevin Carty. 6-8pm, books giveaway. Plaistow 4-5pm, Free book, meet new friends, enjoy coffee. Call on 020 3373 0859 or CN.Plaistow@newham.gov.uk.
For information about library services visit www.newham.gov.uk/libraries or for information about community neighbourhoods visit www.newham.gov.uk/communityneighbourhoods
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OUR NEWHAM 22
School will now train teachers too Kaizen Primary School has been selected to help train the next generation Kaizen has what it takes of teachers. Teaching schools take a leading role in recruiting and training new people to the profession. They identify and develop leadership potential, provide support for other schools and work with schools across their area to raise standards of teaching. The Plaistow school is one of 54 in England to be granted teaching school status in the latest round. Kaizen will continue to partner with Sheringham Nursery in Forest Gate to colead the East London Early Years and Schools Partnership. Introduced in 2011, teaching schools are all rated as “outstanding” by inspectors. They work with partner schools in an alliance to ensure high quality school-led initial teacher training and professional development opportunities for teachers at all stages of their career. Rebekah Iiyambo, head teacher at the school, said: “We are delighted and honoured to have received this designation. It will allow Kaizen to help recruit, support and develop teachers across Newham to ensure the best teaching and learning for the children of the borough.”
High performing providers of early education A special evening celebrated the achievements of people who provide childcare and education for some of the borough’s youngest members. The event, which was held at the Old Town Hall Stratford, recognised the successes of people working across the borough in childminding, educating children and improving their outcomes and learning achievements. More than 200 guests watched as 145 of Newham’s childcare providers, including private, voluntary and independent settings and child minders, were presented with certificates and a gift token to celebrate their achievements in providing high quality childcare and early education to the borough’s youngest residents. Councillor Quintin Peppiatt, Cabinet member for children and young people, told the guests: “This evening is an opportunity for you to meet other like-minded people making a difference in the Early Years sector and to be proud of your own achievements and those Cllr Peppiatt presents awards of others here tonight too.”
Students inspired to be in the fast lane Andy Green, holder of the world land speed record since 1997 when he rocketed through the Nevada desert at 760mph in his Thrust super car, gave a more sedate lecture to students from the Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre in East Ham. The Royal Air Force wing commander dropped in as part of British Science Week to promote the power of engineering and science. He told students that if they wanted to drive a car at super sonic speed, they had to start by studying maths. He told pupils about his new car project Bloodhound, which aims to break the 1,000mph barrier on land, and how the project is designed to inspire a new generation of engineers. Andy answered a host of enthusiastic questions from students. Raja Ai, 17, said: “There are many students who are now considering engineering as a career prospect.”
Andy with students
Singers are full of glee Young singers from Chobham Academy on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park wowed a packed audience when they took third place in the Jack Petchey Glee Club Challenge Grand Final at the O2 Arena. The group won a trophy and a prize of £750 for their efforts. They had to go through regional heats to get to the final showdown with 11 other choirs. More than 60 groups in total took part. Teacher Georgia Jones said: “We are really proud. Just getting to the final was a big achievement but we never thought we could win anything. We are still celebrating. It was our first competition.” The group of 14 students performed Proud Mary and an RnB Mix. The competition was judged by TV stars Tamzin Outhwaite, John Partridge, Brenda Edwards, Danny-Boy Hatchard, and BBC entertainment correspondent Brenda Emmanus.
Chobham Academy choir with the judges
Win tickets to see the circus The Newham Mag has teamed up with perennial favourite Zippo’s Circus to give away tickets for the 2016 show in Central Park, High Street South, East Ham, from Thursday 5 May to Tuesday 10 May. The First Prize winner will receive a Family Ticket (2 adults and 2 children) and a unique opportunity to go back stage, and meet knife-thrower Toni and other performers. You can even take your own photos standing in front of Toni’s knife-board. There are also four more Family Tickets for runners-up. This year’s line-up for the new production includes some clever cats, a thrilling ceilingwalk and the daring solo ‘flying’ trapeze of Alex Michael from Brazil and the beam-bending Star-Wars-style effects of Mr Laser. To be in with a chance of winning, tell us who performs the flying trapeze at Zippo’s Circus? Send your answer, name, address, email address and telephone number to Newham.Mag@newham.gov.uk or write to Newham Mag, 1000 Dockside Road, Zippo’s Circ London, E16 2QU before 14 April. To book tickets for Zippo’s Circus, visit us is on its w ay www.zippos.co.uk or book by phone on 0871 210 2100.
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PLEASE SEND YOUR DRAWINGS, JOKES AND POEMS TO: KIDS’ CORNER, WEST WING 4TH FLOOR, NEWHAM DOCKSIDE 1000 DOCKSIDE ROAD, LONDON E16 2QU OR EMAIL THEM TO newham.mag@newham.gov.uk Don’t forget to write your name, age, address and daytime contact telephone number on the back of your entry
Gallery
Julia Bachmatiuk, 7
Aaron Rozario, 5
er
Winn
Boris Velkov, 8 24
Taeba H Hossain M Miah, 9
Win free membership at Stratford Picturehouse This issue’s winner receives a free family ticket at Stratford Picturehouse, which includes a kid’s popcorn and drink. To be in with a chance of winning this or another great prize send your pictures, jokes and poems to Kids’ Corner, West Wing, Fourth Floor, Newham Dockside, 1000 Dockside Road, London E16 2QU. Don’t forget to write your full name, age, address and daytime contact telephone number on the back of your entry. Good luck! Visit www.picturehouses.co.uk to see what’s on.
Stratford Picturehouse, Theatre Square, E15
Colour-me-inWordsearch Jokes Q: How does a lion greet the other animals in the field? A: Pleased to eat you. Q: What do you call cheese that isn’t yours? A: Nacho cheese! Q: Why do fish live in salt water? A: Because pepper makes them sneeze! Q: Why did the tree go to the dentist? A: To get a root canal Q: What do you get from a pampered cow? A: Spoiled milk. Q: What is black; white; green and bumpy? A: A pickle wearing a tuxedo. Q: What happened when the lion ate the comedian? A: He felt funny!
N U S N S S S U G E L E
E A C T S K A N U T R G
M A O A T R I P P U S A
N O T P E R C H S P S B
Dorado Flounder *ROGÀVK Grayling
B E R R R N R A I P F C
E T S E G I E E S G L T
R O H E T N A E P G O E
G T A S P R I X R M U A
E E D L I I A L I O N N
L L D H N F R I Y O D J
T I O O A L D T M A E E
T M C E R E E L S R R T
+DGGRFN Herring 0DFNHUHO 3HUFK
P I K E C A A E O P S G
L T W A T S U R A G O C
C H P I D T F E A R D N
T S R R N N T K N O T A
N U E E S G S C R A R L
E S O C R J M A A S L A
S O E R A Y D M N A L B
M T R L T O T D N A R D
3LNH Salmon Trout Tuna
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FIVE PAGES OF ACTIVITIES MOSTLY FREE, ALL FUN
WHAT’S ON? Download our What’s On app at www.newham.gov.uk/neighbourhoodevents
OUR THRILLING THREE... Royal Docks Community Market – bustling market at Pier Parade, North Woolwich, 12-4pm, last Saturday of April. Local sourced fresh produce on offer. St George’s Day tea dance – get active and meet people. Friday 22 April, Old Town Hall, Stratford, 1.30-4pm. £3 for residents. Refreshments and raffle included. Make Your Move – a free exercise programme for all members of the family. Every Monday, 10.30-11.30am, Memorial Park, West Ham. Meet at the Grassroots Building.
TRY SOMETHING NEW... 1ST STRATFORD BROWNIES (GIRLS 7-10YRS) Girls only children’s group, Weds, 6pm-7.30pm. Play, Sow and Grow at 6 Gay Road, Stratford, E15 2RN. £20 per term (10 weeks). For more information, email: guidinginstratford @outlook.com
CITY READ Take part in City Read event with a difference at Beckton Globe Library from Mon-Sat, 11-16 Apr, 10.30am-8pm. A temporary art installation at the library will allow you to immerse yourself in the book Ten Days by Gillian Slovo. You have to enter a digital booth to investigate the disturbances in London as they escalate by examining evidence and unlocking clues. When you’re done, add your response to the scenes you’ve witnessed and share your experiences with the community.
Indicates free sessions Libraries unless stated UNDER-FIVES Toy Library Introducing toddlers to borrowing toys. Thurs, 11-12noon, Beckton Storytelling Mon 11am-12noon, Tues 10.3011.30am, Beckton; Tues 10.3011.30am, Thurs 2-3pm, Plaistow; Sat 11.30am-1pm, Green St; Tues, 10.45-11.30am, Canning Town; Tues, 10.30-11.30am, Thurs 9.45-10.45am, East Ham; Tues 11am-12noon, Fri 11am12noon, Stratford; Fri, 10.3011.30am, Manor Park; Mon, 10.30-11.30am, Custom House; Tues, 10.30-11.30am, The Gate Stay and Play Support for parents and carers to develop their child through play. Tues, 9.30-11.30am, Jeyes C.C; Thurs, 1.30-3.30pm, Jack
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Cornwell C.C; Mon, 10.3011.15am, Custom House; Tues, 10.30-11.15am, The Gate Jiggaree Session (term time) Fri, 10-11am, Plaistow Reading Together Thurs, 2.30-3pm, Custom House Rhyme Time Mon, 2.45-3.30pm; Tues, 10.30 –11.15am, North Woolwich Bumps and Babies Fri, 1.30-3.30pm, The Gate YOUNG PEOPLE Games Club (7-16yrs) Sony PS3, XBox360, Nintendo Wii, board games and more. Thurs, 4-6pm, Plaistow; Tues, 3.30-5.30pm, Custom House; Weds, 3.30-5pm, The Gate; Thurs, 4-6pm, Canning Town; 5-7pm, Beckton Globe (5-12yrs) Froud Young Project (7-16yrs) Activities for young people. Mon,
TURN TO PAGE 30 FOR VENUE DETAILS
Indicates free sessions
3.30-5.30pm, Jack Cornwell C.C Arts and Craft Workshop (5-12yrs) Tues, 4-6pm, Plaistow; Sat, 2-3pm, Canning Town; Sat, 2-3pm, Custom House; Sat, 2-3pm, North Woolwich; Weds, 5.30-7.30pm, East Ham; Thurs, 6-7.30pm, Manor Park Young Readers Club (7-12yrs) Read and discuss your favourite books. Tues, 4-5.15pm, North Woolwich East Ham Youth Zone Sony PS4, DJ decks and other activities. Tues, 4-7pm, East Ham Kids Dance Sat, 6-7pm, Green St
Elevated Aspirations Young ’N’ Gifted Choir. All young people are welcome to join. Wed, 6.30-9pm, Stratford, email shaka@youngngifted.org or call 07956 436 743 Family Film Night Sat, 5.30-7.30pm, East Ham Recycling Session Mon, 4 Apr, 3-4pm. Manor Park Crafty Challenges Fri, 5:30-6.15pm. All ages welcome, East Ham Popcorn Films Tues, Sat, 4.30pm-6.30pm. Beckton Globe
East Ham; Tues, 19 Apr, 10.30 – 12noon Plaistow
12noon, Plaistow; Fri, 12.302.30pm, Green St
Do It Online (18yrs+) Six-week or eight-week basic computer training. Advance booking required, contact library directly. Tues, 10am-12noon, East Ham; Weds, 2-4pm, Stratford; Tues, Thurs, 11am1pm, Green St; Tues, 10am12noon, Katherine Road C.C; Tues, 2-3.30pm, North Woolwich; Weds, 2-3.30pm, Beckton Globe
ESOL for Beginners Tues, Fri, 1-3pm, Plaistow; Tues, Fri, 9.30am-12.30pm, Jack Cornwell C.C; Weds, Thurs, 9.30-11.30am, Katherine Road C.C; Mon and Weds, 9.30am-3pm, Beckton C.C. Call 020 8522 5772 to enrol.
Knit & Natter (16yrs+) Weds, 10am-12noon, Beckton; Fri, 10.45-12noon, Canning Town; Fri, 10am-12noon, East Ham; Tues, 10.30am-12.30pm, Manor Park; Fri, 10am-12pm, Plaistow
Interactive Learning Tues, 5-6.30pm, Green St
Karaoke Night Mon, Fortnightly, 6-7.30pm Beckton Globe Youth Zone
ICT Surgery IT advice for all ages. Fri, 2-4pm, Canning Town
Family Movie Club Free films for all the family. Fri, 5.30-7pm, Manor Park
East Ham Performing Arts Fri, 6.30-7:30. All ages welcome, East Ham
Love Newham app drop-in Learn how to report issues via the app. Mon, 10.30-11.30am, The Gate
Time-2-Craft (16+) Sat, 10-12noon, Stratford (term-time)
Children’s Chess Club (816yrs) Thurs, 14 Apr, 5-6pm Custom House
Homework Club Fri, 4-5pm, Beckton; Fri, 3.305.30pm, Canning Town; Fri, 4-5.30pm, East Ham; Sat, 2-3.30pm, Manor Park; Mon, 3.30-4.30pm, North Woolwich; Mon, 3.30-5pm, Plaistow Library; Mon, 4-6pm, Stratford; Sat, 10.30-12.30pm, The Gate
Kids Dance Free fun dancing to your favourite songs. Sat, 5.30pm7pm, Green Street
Film Club (16+) Thurs, 1-3.30pm, North Woolwich Children’s movie club (5+) Thurs, 4-7pm, North Woolwich Sat, 4-6pm, Manor Park Board Games Club Tue, 4-5pm, Sun, 1.30-2.30pm, Stratford; Wed, 6-7.30pm, Manor Park; Sat, 11am-12noon, North Woolwich; Fri, 5.30pm6.30pm, Beckton Young People’s Positive Activities (9-19yrs) Wed, Fri, 7-9pm, Harold Road Centre; Wed, Thurs, 5.308.30pm, Katherine Road C.C.
ICT Drop-in Session Set up a My Newham profile and create an email account. Fri, 11am-1pm, The Gate; 10.30am-12.30pm, Green St; Weds, 10.30-12noon, Stratford
ESOL for Absolute Beginners Weds, 9.30am2pm, Katherine Road C.C; Mon, 10-11am, Green St Safer Neighbourhood Drop-in Weds, 10am -11am, Stratford Sewing Class Weds, 10am-12noon, Beckton C.C. £2 per session. Ballroom Dancing (18yrs+) Tues, 2-3pm, Beckton C.C; Thurs, 2.304pm, Field C.C Citizens Advice Sessions Advice sessions on money management, energy saving and debt. Appointment only. Mon, 11am-1pm, Manor Park
Deafroots Deaf Club Including quizzes, prizes, refreshments. Mon, 1.303.30pm, Stratford. New members £2, existing members £1. Email angel@deafroots.org. uk or text on 07985 242 778.
Introduction to Newham Online Course More than 500 free courses. Sat, 11am12.30pm, Manor Park
Afternoon tea Weds, 4-5.30pm, Canning Town
Support in Action Thurs, 12noon-4pm, Jeyes C.C
Chess Club Tues, 3.45-5.15pm, Beckton; Mon, 5.30-7.30pm, and Thurs, 5.30-7.30pm, East Ham; Weds, 5.30-7.30pm, Green St; Thurs, 5.30-7.30pm, Stratford; Tues, 5.30-7.30pm, The Gate
SpEC Speaking English with Confidence Mon, 10-11am, Plaistow; Mon, 11am-12noon, East Ham; Weds, 10-11am, Beckton; Sat, 10am12noon, Stratford
My Newham Workshop Register with My Newham and access council services. Tues, 6-7.30pm, Manor Park
Train Model Workshops Mon, 12.30-3.30pm, North Woolwich ACTIVITIES AND SUPPORT
Coffee Mornings Tues, 11.30-1pm, Beckton; Mon 11-12.30pm, North Woolwich; Thurs, 10.45 – 12noon, Canning Town; Tues, 1112.30pm, Custom House; Tues, 12 Apr, 10.30 -12noon Manor Park; Weds, 20 Apr, 10-12noon,
Adult Reading Groups Thurs 21 Apr, 6.307.30pm, Eas Ham, email easthamreaders@gmail.com Life in the UK Classes 12-week course. Contact 020 8542 3904. Weds, 10am12noon, East Ham; Weds 12.30-2.30pm, Fri 10am-
Basic Computer Skills Fri, 10.30am-12.30pm, Manor Park
English Conversation Club Practise your spoken English. Mon, 6-7.30pm, Weds, 10.3011.30am, Manor Park; Thurs, 3-4pm, Rabbits Road Institute, E12 5JY Together We Can Group for adults under 50 who have had a stroke. Fri 15 Apr, 2-4pm, Plaistow Stratford London Toastmasters Public speaking & leadership club.
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Indicates free sessions
1st and 3rd Monday of each month, 6-8pm, Stratford Let’s Get Crafting Weds, 10.30am-12.30pm, Green St Embroidery Group Thurs, 10.30am-12.30pm, Manor Park
Mums2be Meetup Information and support for expectant parents. 3rd Sat of every month, 10-11am. Email newham@nct.org.uk
International Lunch Club Cost £3 per meal. First come, first served. Mon, 12noon, Beckton C.C.
Mums, Bumps and Babies Fri in various cafes around Newham. Visit www.netmums. com or email jojostevie@live.com
Docklands Drop-In Group Weds, 1-3pm, Beckton C.C.
Junior Volunteer Police Cadets (10-12 yrs, term time) Weds, 3.30-5pm, Little Ilford School, Browning Rd, E12, £1.
Chai and Chat Women Group (18+) For women who use the mental health service only. Weds, 10.30-12.30pm, Plaistow BPCA Day Care Centre For people with multiple disabilities. Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm, Beckton C.C. Workplace Drop-ins Discuss job vacancies training etc. Weds, 20 Apr, 2-4pm, Stratford, email:rehana.b@ newham.gov.uk Employment Support Session Weds, 30 Mar 5.30-7.30 East Ham Arts & Craft Free for young children, parents. Mon, 4.45-5.45pm Beckton Globe City Reads Family event Radical book recycling craft. Come and turn an old book into something new! Session for families to make craft to take home with a free City Reads book. Ten Days by Gillian Slovo. Sat, 9 Apr, 1-2pm, Green Street The Book Club Sat, 16 Apr, 11am. Custom House Acupressure Relieve physical and medical problems with pressure points. For 16+, £5 per session. Sat, 1-3pm, Plaistow
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COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
Senior Volunteer Police Cadets (13-17 yrs) Weds, 6.30-9pm, Little Ilford School, Browning Rd, E12, £2.50. Thurs, 6.30-9pm, Eastlea Community School, Exning Rd, E16, £2.50. Call 07500 881 378 BOXING AND SELF DEFENCE Boxing (Newham College) Mon, 5-6pm, East Ham College, High St South, E6 Fight For Peace Boxing Mon to Fri, 4-5pm 10-14yrs; Mon to Fri, 5-9pm, 14+yrs Woodman St, North Woolwich, E16. Call 020 7474 0054 West Ham Boys ABC Mon, Weds, Fri, mixed (8-16yrs), 5-6pm, Sat, boys (6-11yrs), 10-11am, girls (7-16yrs), 11am12noon, £2. 2 London Rd, E13. Call 020 8472 3614 Boxing and Self Defence (16+) Tues, 5.15-6.15am, Jack Cornwell C.C HEALTH AND FITNESS Salsa Dancing (18yrs+) Mon, 3.15-4.45pm, Beckton C.C; Tues, 11.45am-12.45pm, Field C.C Nordic Walking Weds, 9.15-10.30am. Meet at Field C.C. Not suitable for
wheelchairs. Call 07783 660 429 Tai Chi Class Fri, 10-11am, Beckton C. C. Fri, 11am-12pm, The Gate Let’s Yoga Cost £7.50 for 10 weeks, for 50+. Mon, 10-11.30am, Beckton C.C. TT; Mon, 6-7.30pm, Green St, £1. Thurs, 6.30-7.30am, £5 per session, Grassroots; Thurs, 6-7.45pm, Plaistow; Thurs, 6.15-7.45pm, The Gate; Sat, 10am-12noon, Plaistow (£1 per session) Tone-Tastic 18+ Mon, 2-3pm, Weds, 9.3010.30am, Field C.C. Aerobics Tue, 9.30-10.30am, Jack Cornwell C. C £2 Keep Fit to Salsa (18+) Tues, 11.45am-12.45pm, Field C.C; Mon, 3.15-4.45pm, Beckton C.C. Zumba Registration essential. All ages Tues, 10.30 -11.30am (Free) Field C.C. Mon, 9.30 to 10.30am (£3 pp). Fri, 9.30 to 10.30am £2pp, Over 50s Free. Jack Cornwell C.C. Thurs, 10:15 to 11:15pm (£2.50pp) (women’s only), Contact: bodyshapefitness4@gmail.com for more information. Stratford Library; Fri, 12:30pm 1:30pm for over 50’s (free), The Hub; Thurs, 4.30-5.30pm, Plaistow Bollywood Exercise Class (14+) Sat, 11am-12noon, Katherine Road C.C.
ICCAN Faith based group with cultural activities. Fri, 12-2pm, Jeyes C.C Active Centre 50+ Group Weds, 12noon-4pm, Field C.C; Mon, Wed, Fri, 1.30-4pm, Beckton C. C. Dominos Group Fri, 6-10pm, Field C.C Chair Based Yoga Tues, 12.30-1.30pm, Manor Park Forever Young Enjoy community activities and make new friends. Weds, 11am-1pm, Beckton; Weds, 10.30am-12.30pm, Field C.C. Pilates Classes Tues, 9.30-10.30am, Field C.C Happy Living Club Indoor and outdoor activities. Tues, 1.30-5.30pm, Jeyes C.C Holiday Spanish Club Weds, 12.30-1.30pm, Manor Park Walking Football Tues, 10-11am, Priory Park E6 1QH. Email dgheerawo@ westhamunited.co.uk or call 07803 210 299. Age UK East London Nordic Walks (18+) Mon, 10.30-11.30am, meet at Hackney Marshes Centre, Homerton Road, E9. Call 07989 938 242 Steel Pan Music Therapy For people with learning and physical disabilities, Dementia and stroke. Fri, 12-2pm, Beckton C.C
Slimming World Mon, 5.30-9pm, Beckton C.C. £5 per session
Zumba & Indian Dance Designed for 50+ but all ages welcome. Fri, 12noon-1pm, Jeyes C.C.
Circuits/Bootcamp (14yrs+) Tues, 5.30-6.30pm, Newham College, Stratford Campus, E15 4HT. Email: sports@newham.ac.uk
Get Active, Get Healthy, and Exercises for Fitness Thurs, 10.30-11.30am, Manor Park
50+ ACTIVITIES Bingo (50+yrs) Mon, 12-1pm, Beckton C.C; Mon, 12-4pm, Jeyes C.C; Thurs, 7-9pm, Jack Cornwell C.C
Get Active, Get Healthy – Walk to the park Mon, 10.30-11.30am, Manor Park Backsercise Tues, 6-7pm, The Gate.
TURN TO PAGE 30 FOR VENUE DETAILS
Indicates free sessions
Drop-in Embroidery Class Mon, 11am-1pm, East Ham Market Hall, E6 1HY Active Centre 50+ Group £1.50 fee to cover cost of refreshments. Weds, 20, Apr, 1-3pm, St Mark’s C.C GREEN Green Gym Weds, 10am-1pm, meet at Visitor Centre in East Ham Nature Reserve, Norman Rd, E6. Call 07845 973 156 Green Volunteering Tues and Thurs, 10am-2pm. Silvertown Wy, E16 (opp. Hallsville Rd) Garden Club Tues, 1-3pm, Thurs, 4-7pm, Sat, 10am-4pm, Abbey Gdns, Bakers Row, E15
Tues, 6-10pm, £2, Rokeby School, Barking Rd, E16 FEMALE SPORTS
Basketball Sessions Tues, 4-5pm, Chobham Academy, 40 Cheering Ln, E20 Dare2Dance (12-16yrs) Street dance, Fri, 3.30-5.30pm, Newham Leisure Centre, E13 Female Boxfit (14yrs+) Mon, 4.15-5.15pm, Balaam Leisure Centre, E13. Call 07970 783 526 Girls Football (11-16yrs) Tues, 4-5.30pm, Thurs, 5-6pm, Newham Leisure Centre. Fri, 5-7pm. Term time only. Memorial Park, E15 Girls Group Cycling (11-15 yrs) Tues and Thurs, 5-5.30pm, Newham Leisure Centre, E13
Gardening Thymes Gardening Club Fri, 11am1pm, Bowling Green,Central Park, High St South, E6
Just Play (14yrs+) Weds, 6.30-8pm, multi-sports (term time). Cumberland School, E13. Call 0300 124 0123
Grow Together Be Together Community Gardening Club Weds, 10am-1pm. Sat, 1pm-3pm, Flanders Field, Melbourne Rd entrance, E6. Call 020 8586 7070
Women’s Martial Arts (16yrs+) Tues, 5.15-6.15pm, Jack Cornwell C.C. Ring 07473 030 250
Caravanserai Garden Volunteering Thurs and Sat, 11am-3pm, Silvertown Wy, E16. For information call 07773 863 384 Community Gardening Tues, 10am-12pm, Beckton C.C; Tues, 4-6pm, St Johns Green Community Garden DOORSTEP CLUBS Call 0300 124 0123. unless otherwise stated. Athletics Club (14yrs+) A multi-sport session focusing on athletics, football and the gym. Tues, 6-7pm, Newham Leisure Centre, E13. Call 07718 394 756 Gym & Basketball (14yrs+)
Female Only Gym Sessions Mon, 3-4pm, 16-25yrs. Mon and Weds, 7.30-10.30pm. Tues and Thurs, 12noon-1.30pm. Sun, 3-5pm, 11-15yrs, Newham Leisure Centre, E13. £4.65 Get Back into Netball Tues, 6-7.30pm, juniors; 7.30-9pm, seniors. £2. Lister Community School, E13. Call 07717 281 529 Abs Blast (11-15yrs) Thurs, 5.30-6.30pm, £3.10, Newham Leisure Centre, E13 Female Only Zumba Tues, 6-7pm, Forest Gate Community School, Forest Ln, E7. Thurs, 6.30-9pm, The Well C.C, Vicarage Ln, E6. £1. Call 07741 292 902; Thurs, 10.1511.15am, Stratford, £2.50; Mon, Weds, 6.30-7.30pm, Asta Community Hub, 14A Camel Road, E16 2DE. £2.50
Fun Female Fitness (14yrs+) Weds, 5-6pm, Newham College, East Ham Campus, E6 6ER. Email: sports@newham.ac.uk Netball (14yrs+) Mon, 5-6pm, Newham College, East Ham Campus, E6 6ER. £1 for non-Newham College students. Email: sports@newham.ac.uk SPORTS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES FOR DISABLED PEOPLE
Ability Club (14-25yrs) Multi sports for disabled young people. Weds, 5.30-6.30pm and Fri, 4.45-6pm, NewVIc, E13 Athletics (8-18yrs) Tues, 4.15-6.15pm, Brampton Manor, Roman Rd, E6. Thurs, 4.30-5.55pm, St Angela’s Ursuline School, E7. Email cnourrice@englandathletics.org Get Fit for Free Tues, 1.30-3.30pm and Fri, 10am-12noon. Gym use for people with learning disabilities. Newham Leisure Centre, E13. To book an induction call 0300 124 0123 Sensory Play (U5yrs) Weds, (term time) 1.30pm3pm, Oliver Thomas Children’s Centre, Mathews Ave, E6. Email Naomi.ferron@ oliverthomas.newham.sch.uk or call 020 8821 0997 Swim for Families Dealing with Autism Weds, 4-5pm, Balaam Leisure Centre, E13. Call 0300 124 0123 Support In Action (18yrs+) Indoor and outdoor activities, advice and support. Thurs, 12noon-4pm, to Jeyes C.C
Family Swims Sat, 4.30-5.30pm, Newham Otters Swimming Club, Newham Leisure Centre, E13. Call 0300 124 0123. Sun, 12.30-2pm, Family Swim, Balaam Leisure Centre, E13. £5. Call 0300 124 0123.
RUNNING Beckton Park Run Sat, 9am, Beckton Park South, E16. Call 07718 394 756 www.parkrun.org/beckton Run England £2 unless stated. Sun, 10am12noon, Newham Leisure Centre, E13 (meet on track). Mon, 4-5.30pm, Newham Leisure Centre, E13 (meet on track). Mon, 5.45-6.45pm, Newham Dockside, E16 (meet at reception). Weds, 12noon-1pm, Newham Dockside, E16 (meet at reception). Thurs, 5.15-6.15pm, UEL Docklands Campus, E16 (meet at reception). Sat, 10-11.30am, Wanstead Flats, E12 (meet at Harrow Rd Changing Pavilion). Sat, 10-11.30am, Memorial Park, E15, £4 (meet at cark park). Call 07718 394 874. West Ham Park Run Sun, 11am. Meet at Central Park Keepers Lodge, E6. Call 020 8257 4505 East End Road Runners Tues and Thurs, 7pm. Sun, 9am. Meet on the track. Coached sessions for all abilities. Newham Leisure Centre, E13. Call 07979 261 647. SPORTS Fencing with Newham Swords Tues, 6-9pm, Thurs, 6-9pm, Fri, 7-10pm. Classes for adults (18+), and mini-pirates (4-7yrs). UEL SportsDock Call 07956 618 898 Cricket (14yrs+) Tues, 6-8pm, Newham Sixth Form College, E13. Call Ratheesh on 07476 269 226 Lister Table Tennis Satellite Club (11-25yrs) Weds, 6.30-8pm, Newham Sixth Form College, E13. £1. For information call Shiri on 07888 830 179 Indoor Cricket (8-16yrs) Weds, 6-8pm, £2, Lister Community School, E13, email michelle.daniel@
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Indicates free sessions
activeNewham.org.uk Black Arrows Badminton Club Adults: Fri, 7-9pm, Juniors: Sat, 10am-12noon, £3.70, East Ham LC. Adults: Weds, 7-10pm, UEL SportsDock. Call 07932 037 173 Newham and Essex Beagles Athletics Club Mon and Weds, 6-9pm. Foundation groups (8-10yrs). Mon, 7-8pm and Weds, 6-7pm, £5. Terence McMillan Stadium, Newham Leisure Centre, E13. www.newhamandessexbeagles. co.uk BMX (6-16yrs) Sun, 10am-12noon, £3. Gooseley Playing Fields, St Albans Ave, E6. Call 07961 333 615 Mini Tennis Courses (4-16yrs) Tues: 4-5pm, 5-6pm, East Ham Leisure Centre, 324 Barking Road, London, E6 2RT. Thurs: 4.30-5.30pm, 5.30-6.30pm, 6.30-7.30pm, Newham Leisure Centre, 281 Prince Regent Lane, London, E13 8SD. Sat: 4-5pm, 5-6pm, Central Park (tennis courts), High Street South, East Ham, E6 6ET. Sun: 12-1pm, 1-2pm, Stratford Park (tennis courts), West Ham Lane, Stratford, E15 4PT Contact: michelle.daniel@activenewham. org.uk 07741 293 513 Adult Tennis (16+) Sat: 9-10am, 10-11am, 11-12pm, Central Park (tennis courts), High Street South, East Ham, E6 6ET. Sun: 9-10am, 1011am, 11-12pm, Stratford Park (tennis courts), West Ham Lane, Stratford, E15 4PT Contact: michelle.daniel@activenewham. org.uk 07741 293 513
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Leisure Centre Email: sports@newham.ac.uk FOOTBALL AIR Football (16yrs+) Tues, 1-3pm, Fri, 10am12noon, Memorial Park, Memorial Ave, E15. Fri, 3-5pm, Beckton Powerleague, E6. Visit www.airfootball.co.uk Football and Athletics Thurs, 4-5.30pm, Britannia Village, 65 Evelyn Rd, E16 Football & Multi Sports Mon, 4-5.30pm, Newham Leisure Centre, E13. Weds, 5-6pm, Stratford MUGA, West Ham Ln, E15 Mayor’s Football League U10yrs, U12yrs, Mon, 4.306pm, U16yrs, U18yrs, 6-7pm Newham Leisure Centre, E13 Premier League (16yrs+) 6-a-side (4 subs) Weds, 7-10pm, Newham Leisure Centre, E13 WHU Kicks Mon, Tues, Fri, 4-7pm, WHUCST, Beckton 3G, 60A Albatross Cl, E6. Thurs, 6.307.30pm, Little Ilford Learning Zone, 1 Rectory Rd, E12. Thurs, 6.30-7.30pm, Stratford Park MUGA, West Ham Ln, E15. Sat 10.30am-12noon, Newham Leisure Centre, E13 Ascension Football Sat, 10-11.30am, £3. Reception to 11yrs. King George V Park, King George Ave, E16. Call 07806 584 925 BASKETBALL Basketball & Multi Sports Fri, 5-6.30pm, 8-19yrs, Snowshill MUGA, Snowshill Rd, E12
Table Tennis (14yrs) Thurs, 4.40-6pm, Newham College, East Ham Campus, E6 6ER. Email: sports@newham.ac.uk
Basketball Sessions Thurs, 5.30-6.30pm, Little Ilford Learning Zone, 1 Rectory Rd, E12
Volleyball with Newham College (14yrs+) Thurs, 5.30-7pm, East Ham
National League Mon, 6-8pm, U13/14yrs, Tues, 6-8pm, U15/16yrs, Rokeby School, E16.
Thurs, 4.30-6pm, U13/14yrs boys, U14yrs girls; 6-8pm, U16yrs, Newham Leisure Centre, E13, 6-8pm, U18yrs, Cumberland School, E13 NCFE Sports – Basketball Thurs, 5-7pm, East Ham Leisure Centre. To register email sports@newham.ac.uk or call 020 8257 4255 Senior Programme Mon, 7.30-9.30pm, Division 2 women and division 3/4 men. Rokeby School, E16. Call 07947 401 616 Basketball (14yrs+) Tues, 5.30-6.30pm, Forest Gate Community School, E7 9BB. Email: sports@newham.ac.uk COMMITTEE MEETINGS All meetings take place at Newham Town Hall, Barking Rd, E6, unless otherwise stated Mon, 11 Apr, 7pm, Local Development Committee Tues, 12 Apr, 7pm, Strategic Development Committee, Old Town Hall, Stratford Thurs, 21 Apr, 5pm, Cabinet; 5.05pm, Mayoral Proceedings 7.30pm, Governors Forum CONTACT THE MAYOR Here to Help sessions Please register by attending the venue 30 minutes before the advertised time. Thurs, 11 Apr, 11am, Canning Town Library Tues, 19 Apr, 5pm, The Gate Telephone Surgery Weds, 13 Apr. Please call 020 8430 2000 between 10-11am and leave your details, and the Mayor will call you back.
All listings may be subject to change. Please contact individual events and activities before attending.
CONTACT DETAILS LIBRARIES & COMMUNITY NEIGHBOURHOODS Beckton Globe 1 Kingsford Wy, E6 Canning Town Barking Rd, E16 Custom House Prince Regent Ln, E16 East Ham 328 Barking Rd, E6 Green Street 337-341 Green St, E13 The Gate 6-8 Woodgrange Rd, E7 Manor Park 685-691 Romford Rd, E12 North Woolwich 5 Pier Parade, E16 Plaistow North St, E13 Stratford 3 The Grove, E15 Archives and Local Studies 020 3373 6881 Community Outreach 020 337 30813 Church of God 37 Manor Park Road, E12, 020 8911 9494 The International Quarter Marketing Suite Celebration Avenue, E20 1DB LEISURE & SPORTS VENUES Balaam Leisure Centre 14 Balaam St, E13 East Ham Leisure Centre 324 Barking Rd, E6 Newham Leisure Centre 281 Prince Regent Ln, E13 NewVIc Prince Regent Ln, E13 UEL SportsDock Docklands Campus, University Wy, E16 West Ham United Football Club Boleyn Ground, E13 9AZ COMMUNITY CENTRES (C.C) Beckton Community Centre 14 Manor Wy, E6, 020 7511 1214 Field Community Centre 147 Station Rd, E7 020 8536 2800 Grassroots Centre Memorial Park, Memorial Ave, E15, 020 3373 0650 The Hub 123 Star Ln, E16 020 3373 0750 Jack Cornwell Community Centre Jack Cornwell St, E12 020 8553 3459 Jeyes Community Centre 1 James Cl, E13, 020 3373 2205 Katherine Rd Community Centre 254 Katherine Rd, E7 020 8548 9825 St Mark’s Community Centre 218 Tollgate Rd, E6 020 7474 1687 Vicarage Ln Community Centre Govier Cl, E15, 020 8519 0235 Harold Road Centre 170 Harold Road, E13 0SE 020 8472 2805
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