Omni Local Kingston Spring 2016 by Omni Local

Supporting Local Business & Local Charities

Kingston Upon Thames Issue No. 41

Spring Edition THIS MONTH • Where to go and what to do this Month • Check out this month’s Competition!

www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ Edition 41

www.peppekingston.com

REAL AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FOOD Come and visit us to enjoy a true rustic Italian atmosphere. We are very passionate about good food, wine and outstanding service. Come and join us, and please feel free to ask for me in person. We look forward to seeing you, soon!

Peppe!

Delicious wood fired pizzas and freshly made pastas....I had the Melezane, pascatore pizza and pear dessert... Great value and great service. Highly recommended! - Myra Eburne

174 Tudor Drive | Kingston Upon Thames | KT2 5QG

T: 020 8546 3885 E: Pepperestaurant@gmail.com 2

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

We have just recovered from celebrating our 4th year! Thank you to everyone who sent their best wishes to us and who have shown their support through some very tough times!

Contents:

It’s that great time of year again! Brighter mornings, bank holidays and the sun has put in an appearance! Summer is on its way! We have all been showing just how much we love each other on Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day and now we have had an excuse to indulge ourselves with Chocolate at Easter! Where has this year gone?! Have you managed to keep to your New Year’s resolutions? Have you crashed out of your diet, or given up? Why not speak to Leon at PhysioExtra – He has some great fitness and recovery services. Give him a call on 020 8549 6666, or email leon@physioextra.co.uk, and get into shape for the summer! We have 2 brand new sections this month – Thanks to Aine at Kingston Arts and the team at KAOS – Kingston Open Arts Studios. I have been looking for a new section for a while now, and I know you will enjoy this new section. Check out the NEW ARTS SECTION on page 13! Also check out the new Forever Living Section which has been supplied by Carole McGrath and Jo Stone. They have some great products to buy! See page 27. If you have not already checked it out, please take a look at our NEW LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY! Visit www.omniloal.co.uk/directory, or take a look at our advert on page 4 for more information. Please leave your feedback if you have used any of the local businesses featured!

Local Business Focus John Gower - Omni Local

Community Section This Months Charity – Beating Bowel Cancer Community Person - Julie Blythe, Hogsmill Community Garden Kingston Police Advice Kingston Tour Guides

6-11

Arts Section Kingston Open Arts Studios

Learning Section Advice from NumberWorks’n’Words

DIY Section Jobs to do Around the Home

Cooking Corner This Month’s EatWright Recipe

Health and Fitness PhysioExtra Forever Living

19/27

Gardening Section Gardening Tips for the Month

Beauty Section JinnyBeauty

This Months Special Feature April Activities

22-23

You may also be hearing about our new business to business Networking, starting after Easter. Keep your eyes peeled on our Facebook and newsletters for more info!

Places to Go 24-27 Rose Theatre Listings Local Events At the Cinema – Zootropolis Out Now on DVD – Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Before I close – Happy Birthday to Leanna! You have been a rock for Omni Local. Thank you for everything you do!

Accounting & Finance Goddards Resident Accountant Advice from Foster Denovo

29/35

Happy Spring everyone, and stay well.

Local Trades Section Use One of our Excellent Local Trades

Motoring Section Car Care Advice

Property Section Advice from Lucie White & Company

Games & Puzzles Section Crossword Sudoku Word Search Monthly Competition & Review

38-40

LOCAL JOBS

Kind regards, John – Omni Local

OmniLocal Ltd. Office 3 - C/O Big Yellow Storage Units 1-3 Wyvern Estate, Beverley Way, New Malden, Surrey KT3 4PH Tel: 0207 183 0404 Email: sales.omnilocal@gmail.com

www.omnilocal.co.uk

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IS YOUR BUSINESS OMNI RATED YET? GET 5 STAR RATED! Where LOCAL Businesses are rated by LOCAL People

Visit omnilocal.co.uk/rated or scan the QR code, to apply for a Directory Page TODAY and an EARLY BIRD OFFER! PFIND more local business PGET FREE referrals PGet LOCAL feedback PFREE online marketing PFull SEO Page PFREE LOCAL marketing PFULLY branded for your PContinued SUPPORT business

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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

LOCAL BUSINESS

This month we’d like to tell you all about our Local Business Directory. I am talking to our own Director of Omni Local, John Gower.

Supplied by: John Gower - Omni Local

Q1: Hi John, please could you tell our readers about the new Directory? A1: Our newly launched Directory is a way for local businesses (large or small) to share their services throughout the web. Unlike other rating directory websites, businesses can promote their services with search engine optimisation and full mobileoptimised website presence. They’ll feature a fully branded page that includes images and logos, contact details, reviews and testimonials, opening hours, social media links and even vouchers/discounts. Q2: What inspired you to create the online Directory? A2: It’s all in our name - Omni, meaning “all” or “of all things” (locally) is our aim. I have always been passionate about business and about helping smaller establishments in particular. By creating a directory, the local community has everything they need at their fingertips. Local businesses can share their services and use their listing as their online presence, even if they don’t have a website. We are also investing in promoting the directory locally. We want to be the go-to place to find a local business. Anything from Restaurants and Solicitors through to local trades and Charities.

50K into SEO and PPC, which in turn helps the businesses on the directory get found on Google. Q4: How easy is it to get listed?

Q3: What other benefits are there for those who get listed? A3: Besides becoming a lot more visible throughout the web, and having a great visual representation of their services; visitors to the directory can also leave comments and feedback, meaning those who seek them out will have excellent first impressions. They can include videos, and links to other sites they can be found at, such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. We are also investing 5

A4: It’s so simple! We have featured how-touse guides on our website, including a video tutorial that can be watched via YouTube. Everything is easy to use and setting up your own listing is as straightforward as can be. All you need to do is set up an account, create your listing as indicated and submit for review. We have various membership packages available, so you can be as committed as you like - for the short term, or for the long term! Q5: Awesome! Do you have any tips for business owners before creating their listing? A5: Include as much information as possible in your listing – links, images, videos, opening hours, etc. If you don’t have a large online presence already, it’s important that you take advantage of your space on the directory. To find out more, or to get your business listed, visit www.omnilocal.co.uk/Directory.

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

CARE IN THE COMMUNITY

Allergy Awareness Week The Easter holidays have ended and the Spring season is officially here - however, you may not have marked a date on your calendar yet for Allergy Awareness Week (25th April – 1st May).

THIS MONTH’S Supplied by: Leanna Carl - Omni Local CHARITY

This is an important topic to consider, as it could affect your family, your friends, or even those you have just met. Imagine providing food for an unfamiliar guest without having discussions about their allergies, only to find you’ve wasted time and had to throw things out/replace them; or worse, you’ve unintentionally caused them harm. Allergy Awareness Week helps to raise awareness about various allergies and promote well-being for those who suffer from certain kinds. Allergies are caused when your body responds to harmless substances, as if they are an even bigger threat. This is a common occurrence that can happen just by eating certain foods, coming into contact with pets, cut grass or being in an area that is particularly dusty. A lot of people develop symptoms during high pollen counts (myself included), which can lead to a nasty Summer. Allergens can be as obvious as hayfever, or as rare as finding out you have a serious (sometimes fatal) reaction to hair dyes or traces of nuts in an unlikely food product. Symptoms can range from a runny nose, itchy eyes and ears, sneezing or even swelling and rashes. Effects range from irritating to fatal, as a result of your system fighting against invading allergens. The body finds a way to omit these dangers through secretions (or histamines), which is why over-the-counter antihistamines are used to suppress the effects in difficult circumstances.

Allergic reactions and the disallowance of certain “triggers” can be infuriating and upsetting, so don’t take allergies lightly. Learn what you can and help those with any kind of intolerance. Why not raise awareness by holding a special event? If you own a business that handles food, let your customers/visitors know, and try to provide alternatives. Or if you’re having a guest over, make sure they aren’t going to suffer the effects of being around cats and dogs. Some people don’t make a point of listing their allergies and voicing their discomforts, so try to stay aware.

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

COMMUNITY PERSON

Julie Blythe – Hogsmill Community Garden

Supplied by: Hogsmill Community Garden

Julie Blythe is Director at Kingston Environment Centre and she is incredibly dedicated to the local community. Finding creative methods to help the environment and enrich the Kingston area is one of her passions, which is why she is so committed to Hogsmill Community Garden. The Hogsmill Community Garden is an initiative in which a garden is created and cared for on behalf of the whole community. The team hopes that it will be enjoyed by residents, families, schools, students and environmental groups.

wishing to share their efforts and for those hoping to develop particular skills such as gardening or carpentry; learning about the natural environment and its possibilities, and spending time with your neighbours, whilst caring for a garden to be proud of.

Our vision is to promote environmental awareness and knowledge of the natural world, such as plants for pollinators, insectfriendly habitats and taking care of our natural wildlife. The site is on Swan path along the Hogsmill river and is managed by Kingston Environment Cente. The site’s gates have been closed for many years and the space had become overgrown, and turned into a bit of a rubbish tip. A small group of volunteers have been clearing, planning and fundraising for two years in preparation for opening on May 1st. Volunteers of all ages and capabilities are welcome. There is an array of activities: propagation, planting, digging, carpentry, composting, general DIY and so on. We are also accessible to wheelchair users. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone

Feel free to get in touch if you’d like to get involved or find out more. We are there every Saturday and from May 1st during the week. Email Julie at Julie.blythe@hotmail.co.uk or contact Laura@kingstone.co.uk Kingston Environment Centre is working with a variety of local environmental organisations to help secure a sustainable future for Kingston upon Thames. We are a Capital Growth Local Food Lead. We are run by volunteers and we welcome new members and donations to help us develop our work further. To find out more about Kingston Environment Centre, visit kingstoneco.org.uk .

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

POLICE ADVICE

Hello Readers!

Supplied by: Alison McWinnie - MET Police

Operation Vulcan is go! This is our new Borough–wide initiative to tackle a perceived rise in drug dealing on the Borough. During February we achieved the following successes: • Arrested 16 suspected offenders for drug dealing or other drug related offences • Executed 14 search warrants at addresses across the borough • Closed two premises being used to take/ deal drugs • Seized the following drugs: Heroin, MDMA, Cocaine, Speed, Crack Cocaine and Cannabis • Seized £12,000 in cash. Do you suspect drug dealing in your neighbourhood? Let us know! Dial 999 if it is happening now. Alternative numbers for reporting include 101, your local Safer Neighbourhood team, or anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111, or report online at www.crimestoppersuk.org. Operation Vulcan will continue until the end of July 2016. Results will be released at the end of each month, so stay tuned to our Facebook page! Ever wondered what happens in a Magistrates Court? Join us on Saturday 14th May to meet a Magistrate and find out about their work. On Saturday 25th June Chief Inspector Gary Taylor will be talking about current scams and how to beat them. Both events will take place in the morning at The Kingston Quaker Centre. Admission is free but registration is essential. For further details and to register, please email Alison. McWhinnie@outlook.com

outside of the fridge door and the other goes inside the front door. The stickers alert the emergency services to the presence of a bottle. We give free bottles to members of NHW and attendees at our talks (subject to supplies). Kingston Police, Neighbourhood Watch and Business Watch are all on social media. We would love you to follow us: Twitter -

@mpskingston @KingstonNHW @KBBusinessWatch

Facebook - /mpskingston /KingstonNHW /KingstonBoroughBusinessWatch Instagram - /mpskingston YouTube - /kingstonmps Want to join Neighbourhood Watch? Email us today Kingston.NHW@Met.Police.uk

Ever heard of Message in a Bottle? An invaluable free system that could help the emergency services help you if they have to break into your home and find you unconscious or unable to talk (eg following a stroke). The bottles come with a form and two stickers. The form allows you to detail your name, any medical conditions, medications, allergies, next of kin details, and any carer obligations. The form goes inside the bottle, which then goes in the front of the fridge. One of the stickers goes on the

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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

Beating Bowel Cancer values volunteers during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

LOCAL CHARITY

THIS MONTH’S Supplied by: CHARITYSherrill Hawker - Beating Bowel Cancer

This April the charity Beating Bowel Cancer is saying a big thank you to a valued volunteer, Sarah Weetch, from Kingston, who has been volunteering for the Charity since 2013. Sadly, Sarah lost her mum to bowel cancer and knows the devastating effect the disease can have on loved ones. Each year in the UK around 41,000 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer and around 16,000 people die of the disease. But despite such alarming statistics, the good news is that bowel cancer can be successfully treated in over 90 per cent of cases, if caught early. Volunteering is a great way of supporting the charity and giving back to the local community. It’s also a great way of meeting new people and trying something new. Sarah has volunteered at several events throughout the years, including a bucket collection at Kingston town centre, cheering on participants at the Dragon Boat Race, along the river in Kingston and speaking at a supporter’s event in Teddington.

One tube could raise £20, which could provide online support to 120 patients and families. Alongside this, Sarah will be putting up awareness leaflets in her local area, in community halls, social clubs, libraries and gyms in the Kingston area.

Throughout April, Sarah will be volunteering for Beating Bowel Cancer, to help raise awareness of the disease and to encourage people to talk about the symptoms. One of the ways Sarah will be supporting the charity’s work is by taking part in the ‘Smartie Challenge’ and also getting her friends and family involved. Quite simply, enjoying the Smarties and then filling the empty tube with 20 pence coins throughout April and paying in the funds to the charity.

Charities like Beating Bowel Cancer rely on volunteers and they really are the heart of the organisation. Without people like Sarah, they wouldn’t be able to hold collections, awareness stands or attend fundraising events. Thanks to volunteers like Sarah, a far wider audience can be reached and more people can be helped. If you’d like to volunteer for Beating Bowel Cancer or support the Smartie Challenge, contact Sherrill Hawker on 07825 000445 or e-mail Sherrill.hawker@beatingbowelcancer. org For more information about bowel cancer, visit beatingbowelcancer.org. Or if you have any concerns, you can call the charity’s Helpline nurses, on 020 8973 0011 or email nurse@beatingbowelcancer.org.

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

Sun, songs and The Big Gig Love Kingston Day 2016

LOVE KINGSTON Supplied by: Sorrel Parsons - Love Kingston

The sun came out for Love Kingston Day 2016, with residents, businesses, schools, choirs, pubs and banks holding fundraising events to raise vital funds for local causes that support vulnerable residents in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. A weekend of Valentine’s specials at the Canbury Arms and Wych Elm, face-painting and games for children at Eden Walk Shopping Centre Walk, bake sales, Neighbourly Nosh dinners, raffles, mufti days and the first ever all-day music gig were some of the activities that saw residents, customers and crowds getting involved in their community. Love Kingston Day, coinciding with Valentine’s Day on 14th February, is an annual fundraising initiative of Love Kingston. Money raised is given in grants to projects tackling isolation and encouraging integration across the borough to help build a fund that will support charitable activity for generations to come. Charlotte Salaman, The Canbury Arms and The Wych Elm owner: “Michael and I were delighted to support Love Kingston, our third year of involvement. Our customers were so receptive to the initiatives we organised over the entire weekend, not only 14th February but also the 12th and 13th. We donated a £1 from every ‘special’ sold at each of our pubs, and a ‘lucky dip,’ - we personally donated food and drink prizes worth over £1000, and together with our wine supplier, Charlotte Dean of Wined Up Here in Norbiton who also kindly donated vouchers, we raised an amazing total of £661.00. Our community is very special to us and to be able to offer a helping hand to those who are less fortunate is something we feel very strongly about; we are grateful that our customers showed similar enthusiasm for Love Kingston - without their support we couldn’t have contributed so much”. James Giles, 16, Love Kingston’s youngest ambassador and editor of Coombe Monthly: “We had a great day fundraising in Eden Walk: from promoting South West London Question Time to a tombola and education activities

from Kingston University, a variety of activities saw funds being raised for excellent causes in our glorious royal borough. It is important to back good causes in our local community who support those who need it most – who knows when you might be in need of that help?” Book now for the South West London Question Time Do you feel strongly about an issue that you want to raise with your mayoral candidates? Are you undecided about whom to vote for in May’s mayoral election? As pundits predict no clear winner, don’t delay in booking your tickets for South West London Question Time to grill and quiz the London mayoral candidates who want your vote. All proceeds from the event will be donated to Love Kingston. 11th April, 7.15pm, Secombe Theatre, Sutton, £7.50 suttontheatres.co.uk/events/south-westlondon-question-time/

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

LOCAL HISTORY

Spring into Summer! Easter came early this year, and coincided with the change of the clocks to British Summer Time. We hope that this will bring a welcome respite from the dark days of chilly winter, with the promise of fine weather to come along with the increased daylight!

Supplied by: Mike Seigel - Kingston Tour Guides

The month of April takes its name from the Latin word, meaning ‘to open’, and the Romans too regarded this time of year as being the opening up of plants and flowers, and of the new summer season. For Kingston Tour Guides, the start of April marks a change too, since this is when we offer more regular walks, every Sunday right through until the end of September. Last year we changed our timings from the afternoon to the morning - this has proved very popular and has led to growing numbers. Remember that we start our walks in the Ancient Market Place outside the Church gates at 11am. If Sunday mornings are not the best time for you to join us on a walk, we also offer special walks by arrangement for individuals, small or large groups at other times of the week. In addition, we provide talks on the history of both Kingston and Surbiton, and these talks are very popular, especially for those people who may find walking for an hour and a half a little challenging. For further information on all our walks and talks please ring 020 8399 0160. We are also working a new website, and this will be up and running very shortly – just google Kingston Tour Guides. We are delighted that our walks so often attract local people and visitors alike, to begin their Sunday in Kingston with a fascinating tour of the historical sites, taking in the Church, the Market Place, the riverside, the Guildhall and much more. There is far more to the town than mere shopping! The history of Kingston dates back to the ninth century and you will learn about the seven Saxon Kings, visiting our impressive Parish Church and seeing “Where England Began”. You will travel through the centuries as you hear about highwaymen and coaching inns, ghosts and ghouls and what one of Henry VIII’s valets did in his spare time!

There is something for everybody with an interest in history, and you can feast your mind with fascinating historical snippets, before adjourning for a good lunch in one of the town’s many pubs, cafes and restaurants. Several of our pubs are themselves steeped in history, and do ask your guide about these! There is so much to learn about the history of our town and both local people and visitors (often from far away) give us feedback on how much they enjoy our tours. We are a team of volunteers with an enthusiasm for our great town! Do come and join us!

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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

ARTS

Kingston Artists – Open Studio Trail – June 2016

Supplied by: Kingston Artists Open Studios

Kingston Artists Open Studios (KAOS) is a voluntary organisation of local artists and makers in the Kingston area. As the name suggests, our main event is the annual OPEN STUDIOS, when we open our workshops and studios to the public and exhibit our work over two weekends in June. Open Studios is a nationwide scheme, created to support and promote the work of artists within the local community. The aim is to encourage and promote accessibility to art and artists. Visits are free of charge and artists are happy to talk about their creative process with visitors, with some offering free demonstrations. Works of arts are normally for sale,but there is no obligation to buy, the focus is on enjoying your visit. Having established in 2010, this will be our sixth year and we expect 2016 to be our biggest event yet. Over 60 artists and makers will be exhibiting a range of painting, drawing, glass, digital art, ceramics, textiles, printmaking, photography, illustration, graphic design and sculpture in 12 venues across

Kingston. Our artists’ directory and trail map features two clusters of venues in north and southwest Kingston, including FusionArts and ASC Hawkes Road. In central Kingston our sponsor, Cass Art, will be hosting a taster exhibition on their upper floor. Open studios provides an opportunity for you to meet local artists, see their work and find out about the techniques they use and the passions that inspire them. The event will be taking place over two weekends on the 11-12th and 18-19th of June, opening from 11am to 5pm each day. To download a trail map please visit our website or find one in your local library, theatre, art centre or café and look out for the KAOS flags and balloons. For more information or if you would like to sponsor KAOS please send an email to info@kingstonartistsopenstudios. co.uk or visit our website at www. kingstonartistsopenstudios.co.uk

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

HOME

Spring Cleaning Tips

Supplied by: Leanna Carl - Omni Local

If you’re finding it difficult to stay on top of things around the house, hopefully this straightforward tips will help you out. These are simple go-tos to get things done but can be easily forgotten when you’re in a hurry to get things straightened out. 1. Do one room, or one single area of a room at a time to avoid any unfinished jobs. Seeing a room that looks beautiful and tidy will make you feel like you’re really getting somewhere. Much like dieting, when we can see the progress, out motivation gets a lot higher and makes all your effort seem worth it. 2. Work from the top to the bottom and from the inside to the outside. This simply helps you to avoid getting what you just cleaned messy again. Think about dusting a bookshelf, would you clean the bottom shelf first, and then possibly sweep dust from the shelf above onto it after it’s been cleaned? Plan ahead which sections you want to work on from beginning to end and make sure time isn’t an issue, as you’ll end up getting stressed. 3. Reduce additional trips all over the house by temporarily putting items in one place first. Keep a bag handy for collecting rubbish or make organised piles for items that need to be returned to certain rooms or cupboards. This works for sweeping too. Create a few collective piles of dust and rubbish to save getting worn out and moving things around the entire house, and save bending constantly to use a dustpan and brush by waiting until your piles are gathered up and collecting them one by one.

4. Multitask! Keep the washing machine going whilst you clean the dishes or sweep the floors; fold laundry while you let things soak. The more you plan and time out each task, the easier it will be to get through your list of to dos, and may even allow for a bit of a sit down every now and then. It can be very draining doing similar tasks, one after another and rushing around to beat the clock. 5. Invest in proper gear before you start a huge clean-up. Protect your hands with some rubber or vinyl gloves, grab an apron, make sure you’ve got all the essentials like clean sponges, cloths, a broom, dustpan and a mop. Invest in what you need before you really get stuck in, as there’s nothing worse than finding your 80% done with all the cleaning, then hitting a snag like having a faulty vacuum or finding you’ve run out of washing up liquid.

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

LEARNING

How’s the Exam Revision Going?

Supplied by: Celia Osbourne NumberWorks’n’Words

The key to success Whether your child is a high achiever or struggles with exams, their revision will probably benefit from these very simple but super effective revision tips from Celia Osbourne, of NumberWorks’nWords Surbiton. Revision tips for your child Planning revision • List all the revision you need to do and when by. Then create a revision timetable. • Plan your revision in chunks of 1 / 1 ½ hrs maximum and give yourself a break in between. Your revision just won’t be effective if you don’t. • And don’t revise round the clock – give yourself several hours break each day. Top techniques • Think about how you learn best. Does it help if you say it out loud to yourself, make infographics of key facts or just write and re write your notes making them shorter each time. We all learn differently and the key is tapping into what suits you best. • Revise the facts, but then have a go at some past questions where you have to use what you’ve learnt. • At the end of a revision session ask yourself how you’ve done. Do you know and understand your stuff or do you need another session? And if you really struggle with exams? • If it’s exam rooms that you find difficult, try finding a similar place to revise, like your local library, a café or even somewhere at school. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help • Parents or friends can sometimes help or you may just want someone neutral. • Above all else, don’t let exams become an issue. If you’d like a couple of maths or

English sessions to give you a hand then contact us here at NumberWorks’nWords and we’ll make sure you’re on track. NumberWorks’nWords specialize in maths and English tuition, offering one-on-one tuition to all school-aged students. With programs tailored to you or your child and their particular goals, students can focus on what they need to do to achieve their best. What’s more, the atmosphere is relaxed and fun so it diffuses some of those pre-exam nerves. And we’re not just here to help with GCSEs. Whatever test and time of year, we can help year 7 to 11 students and make sure exams don’t become a problem! For a free assessment call NumberWorks’nWords on 0208 399 1234

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

DIY

DIY Jobs for the Spring Season

Supplied by: Leanna Carl - Omni Local

Now that the weather is looking a little better and the clocks are going forward, we’ve got a lot more daylight to get things done. Why not put those extra hours or quiet weekends to use and get around to those household jobs you’ve been planning on seeing to? If you need some inspiration, here’s a list of our recommended Springtime jobs: Check the Exterior of your Home Spring can be a great time to check for damages, as the previous Winter storms and showers could have lead to leaky gutters, missing roof tiles, woodrot and peeling paint. Here is your opportunity to do some repainting, replacing and repairing, before those unpredictable Summer rains arrive, or before it gets too hot to get up onto the roof. Maybe the steps leading up to your home have been damaged - try and see to them before your friends and family members start visiting for BBQs. Re-grouting Tiles Eventually, bathroom and kitchen tiles tend to become a little dingy and discoloured. Some even get damaged over time. For an easy way to revamp these areas of the house, simply obtain a grout saw and scrape off the upper level before applying a new, light layer of grout and leave it to dry. You could even use a grout pen to get those small problem areas looking refreshed and renewed. For a full replacement or to start fresh, read our earlier DIY article on how to tile your bathroom.

Start by replacing any planks that have become damaged or rotten and clean it thoroughly before you re-paint or stain the wood. Not only will it maintain the safety and well-being of your garden, but it will look a lot better to passers by and visitors. You’d be amazed at what a good quality fence can do for your entire garden. If you’d like some help in making the most of you garden, why not get in touch with companies like Tolworth Fencing? Look out for their advert as you read on. Clean your patios/decking Over the past few months, dirt and mould can start to appear on your decking or patio, making it look a dingy and neglected. Treated wood may not require a lot of maintenance, but its worth doing a quick survey when you have the time. Cleaning a dirty or even mossy patio with a pressurised washer, or a simple stiff brush treatment and cleaning products will make an enormous difference to the overall appearance, especially when you have houseguests. Once thoroughly cleaned, it may be worth treating or staining the wood. For more advice on jobs like this, refer to our earlier DIY articles or ask your local professional.

Re-paint your Garden Fence

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

The Cooking Corner Cod Parcels Serves 4 Ingredients: • 4 x 150g cod fillets • 150g leek, cut into thin rings • ½ large orange or red peppers, finely chopped • ½ large yellow peppers, finely chopped • 2 spring onions, thinly sliced • 1 red chilli, cored, seeded and finely chopped • Himalayan salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • (You will need baking paper or kitchen foil) leek, pepper, spring onions and red chilli. 7. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season to taste. 8. Close the baking paper/foil to make a parcel. 9. Place the parcels on a baking tray and bake for 10-15 minutes, until cooked.

For the Tomato Sauce: • 4 tbsp tomato puree • 4 tbsp fresh basil, finely cut • 2 tbsp dried Italian herbs Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/450°F/Gas mark 8. 2. Make the tomato sauce: in a small bowl mixi together the tomato puree, basil and Italian herbs. 3. Cut 4 pieces of baking parchment or kitchen foil. 4. Dry the cod fillets with kitchen towel and place each one on a piece of baking paper or foil. 5. Spread 2 tbsp of tomato sauce on each fillet. 6. Cover each fillet with a quarter of the

Tips: If you are short of time, you can also use a bag of pre-cut stir fry vegetables instead of cutting your own. The parcels are ideal for heating on the barbeque as well. Nutritional value: Carbohydrates: 3 per 100g Protein portion: 1 Vegetable portion: ¾

www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ Edition 41

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

HEALTH & FITNESS

Spring Reboot

Supplied by: Andrew Sillett - On Sight Media

Is the only ‘working out’ you have actually done this year to calculate that given your actual visits to the gym, that each session costs £150? Don’t be so hard on yourself, though. It takes a will of iron to keep up a strict exercise regime through winter. We have a natural tendency to gravitate towards fattier, comfort food and gain 3lb in winter on average. An atavistic impulse to fatten up for hibernation, perhaps. And after the annual fat fest of Christmas, the lack of sunshine and less than inspiring weather, is it any wonder when we emerge in spring, feeling as toned as a bin bag full of yoghurt? Less a six-pack, and more of a party keg? Spring feels like the real start of the year. So why not kick it off by hiring a personal trainer to get you up and running?

suffer with other people. In any case, the first session is free, so you can try before you buy. It says something about the team that about 90% of people go on to take a course of sessions after their initial consultation. The idea of a personal trainer is to get you to a position where you no longer need a personal trainer. Very few people are motivated enough to pull themselves up by their trainer straps and embark on a fitness regime without outside help, because exercise is a slog. Have you ever seen a jogger who looked like they were enjoying themselves?

PhysioExtra in Ham has a team of friendly professionals at your disposal to get you feeling and looking good in time for the summer. They support a wide range of clients, from complete strangers looking to exercise, to Olympic athletes. What makes the practice special is that they combine personal training with medical specialists, including physiotherapists, a dietician, a hypnotherapist, a podiatrist and a masseuse, should you need them.

The very act of making an appointment with a trainer is a big factor in getting you to actually do the exercise you promised yourself you would. Over time, you will become more independent and perhaps surprise yourself by going beyond what you ever dreamed you would be capable of.

Personal training means that it is all geared around your needs. You may need gentle encouragement to get you fit, or a more of a drill sergeant. Some people prefer to train with a friend or partner, or there is a new 10 a.m. Saturday morning boot camp on Ham Common for £10 a session, if you prefer to

Visit: physioextra.co.uk

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

GARDENING

Gardening Tips for the Month

Supplied by: Leanna Carl - Omni Local

Although Springtime has arrived and conditions are relatively normal for your plantlife, it’s important that you bear in mind, late frosts can still appear this time of year which can be damaging to your plants. There are many ways to take care of your garden this time of year, some of which are listed below. Clean and Repair your Garden Tools You could book your lawn mower in for a service and repair, check any garden furniture for damages, rust and wood rot. If the weather is seeming warm enough, you could also treat sheds, fences and trellis with wood preservative. Brushes and rollers are fine for most jobs like this, but you can also invest in a sprayer for the trickier garden projects, like woven materials. Check on your Daffodils

the borders or in fruit and vegetable patches. If you’ve already begun mulching, try to draw back a little bit to tease the soil and replace with fertiliser. Remove any vegetation and dig the ground over, incorporating as much organic matter as possible. Carry on Spring Cleaning

Give them a sprinkle of bonemeal or liquid feed, but make sure that you deadhead them first. You should keep deadheading spring bedding if you want to keep things looking neat and tidy, and encourage more flowering. Just remember not to cut off the leaves, as they can help to replenish any bulbs planted afterwards. Start a War on Slugs and Snails Slugs love young shoots and flowers like tulips, so try using pet-friendly slug pellets and opt for liquid slug killer to exterminate slugs below the surface. Keep an eye out for snails and pick them off of the leaves of your plants. It can actually be quite useful to encourage birds to catch snails for you. You can use flat stones and accessories to allow them to practice catching them. As Things Begin to Grow… Try adding all-purpose fertiliser to your garden before you cover with mulch, particularly when focusing on

Hoe the borders of your garden, making sure to get rid of any weeds before they take hold. Weeds such as bitter cress are bad enough without allowing them to multiply by seeding. Attack the ground with weed killer if necessary. Do some mulching when you have the chance, before the growth really starts to take off. You should also remove moss and weeds from any pathways, and begin making new beds or borders.

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

BEAUTY

Strip Lashes

Supplied by: Jinny Coffey - Jinny Beauty

Want to have long and voluminous eyelashes? Jinnylash gives a hint of glamour to every occasion, offering all types of lashes from subtle to daring, natural to striking. Jinnylash is always at the forefront of lash beauty and health. Jinnylash offers more than 20 designs of strip lashes in a variety of styles, ranging from natural to subtle, demure to dazzling, to glamorous and wild! Our ranges create such

Contact Jinny Beauty

a terrific look that can cover all situations,

Tel: 020 8949 6006 / 9292

from daily wear to special occasions.

Address: 71 Kingston Road, New Malden, Surrey, KT3 3PB Email: manager@jinnyshop.com • Bring a copy of this magazine with you to Jinny Beauty and you’ll get one pair of strip lashes absolutely free!

Leona Lewis from ‘Lovebird’ music video wearing JINNYLash Black Swan Striplashes.

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

SPECIAL FEATURE

April Activities This time of year is usually more relaxed, you’ve got bank holidays and Easter on the way, the weather is a little more tame... However, this year our Easter Sunday was celebrated at the end of March and the bank holidays don’t pop up until May. As a result, you may find yourself looking for a break or something fun to do during the usual working routine. If you’re stuck when it comes to the what’s and the where’s, hopefully this article will help to get you inspired. Create Fun Rainy Day Activities for you and the Kids April is an unpredictable month in terms of the weather. Most years its mild and relatively sunny, with a few surprise April showers every now and then... A few years ago we actually had snow! So why not plan for some staying in, just in case the outdoors seems a bit daunting. You could set up an arts and crafts station using whatever materials you have to hand, or you could just play some learning or boardgames. Although it may be unlikely (we all love a bit of chocolate!), you may find you’ve still

Supplied by: Leanna Carl - Omni Local

got some Easter eggs or half-eaten goodies leftover from the Easter holidays. Why not liven up those smashed chocolate shells and leftover mini eggs by creating Easter nests with the kids? All you need to do is melt the remaining chocolate down, add a spoonful of honey/golden syrup or some melted marshmallows and stir in some cornflakes or rice krispies. Spoon this mixture into cake cases and put a few mini eggs in the centre of each one, and you’ve got delicious chocolate nests to enjoy with the little ones, or any guests who might drop by. Attend an April Event One of the biggest sports events to happen in April is the London Marathon, where entrants from all over run an epic route throughout some of London’s most famous attractions. You could be cheering them from the sidelines and being a part of something really exciting. If you’re not into active sporting events like this, London is also due to host the London Games Festival, which celebrates the art, culture and business of games and video games. With workshops,

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

talks and activities, including the biggest Monopoly board in the UK, which will be held in Trafalgar Square. Not many people really make an effort to celebrate St George’s Day, but this is another special event to come around this month on 23rd April. There are various free celebratory events being held in London on behalf of the patron saint of England, who was famed for slaying a dragon. Events include parades, food festivals and lots of activities for children. There is also the chance if you are heading into central London this month that you might hear gun salutes fired to mark the Queen’s actual birthday of 21st April, although her official birthday is celebrated in June. Important Causes this Month This month also marks Allergy Awareness Week, and you can find out more in our Care in the Community section about becoming more aware of the difficulties having allergies can cause. With the Winter well out of the way and Summer coming up, we’ll definitely be noticing a lot more complaints about hayfever very soon, and it’s important to know the facts and other common causes. Another very important issue to consider this month is Bowel Cancer Awareness. April 23

marks Bowel Cancer Awareness month, as you’ll note from this month’s Local Charity feature. This very serious and common cancer type is one that is hard to pinpoint, and knowing the facts about it could prevent you and your loved ones from finding out too late and suffering the effects. Knowing the symptoms and how to get screened can save lives. Refer to our charity section for all the details you need to stay aware this month. Where to go in Kingston this Month There are plenty of ways to enjoy the evenings and weekends over the next month, but we strongly insist that you check out or Local Events section to see what else is on. There are various arts and musical events in town this month and we also have a fabulous competition on page 40 to win a delicious meal for two at Deea Indian Restaurant. You will see from our array of brilliant advertisers this month that there are many local and affordable services to help out wherever needed, and many places to take the kids, so don’t count out April as one of the duller months! Mark your calendars, take some time for yourself and your friends or family, and make this month count. Whatever you decide to do, we hope you have a great month planned and you take full advantage of this month’s brilliant advertisers.

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

for grabs. But who is most deserving of it? Bossy, overbearing, fanatically religious Daphna? Her wealthy cousin Liam, who’s just returned from skiing with his non-Jewish girlfriend Melody? Or Jonah, his brother, who would prefer not to get involved in the fight? A Manhattan apartment becomes the setting for a viciously hilarious brawl over family, faith and legacy as the contenders set at each other’s throats on the night after the funeral.

OCKHAM’S RAZOR: TIPPING POINT Produced by Turtle Key Arts Fri 15 Apr - Sat 16 Apr Ockham’s Razor create original and ground breaking physical theatre from the stories and relationships inherent in circus. For their return to the Rose they present a show set in the round, with 5 performers enclosed within the circle of the stage. They take simple metal poles and transform them into a rich landscape of images. Poles are balanced on fingertips, hung from the roof, lashed, climbed, swung from and walked along. They become forests, cross roads and pendulums.

THE HERBAL BED A Rose Theatre Kingston, English Touring Theatre and Royal & Derngate Northampton Production Tue 26 Apr - Sat 07 May When William Shakespeare’s daughter is publicly accused of adultery with her neighbour, her husband chooses to stand by her, suing her accuser for slander. In doing so, their lives fall under the glare of intense public scrutiny in this emotional thriller, based upon real events from Stratford-upon-Avon in the summer of 1613. A powerful exposé of the contradiction between human desire and social convention which seeks to repress it, Peter Whelan’s moving and uplifting play provides a beautiful evocation of life in Shakespearian England. It was first produced to great acclaim by the Royal Shakespeare Company before transferring to the West End and Broadway.

The audience are drawn in, close to the action as the toppling poles veer from catastrophe to mastery and lines are cast out beyond the circle of the stage. BAD JEWS Written by Joshua Harman and directed by Michael Longhurst. Theatre Royal Bath Productions Mon 18 Apr - Sat 23 Apr Bad Jews enjoyed its UK premiere in Bath as part of the Summer Season 2014, where it opened to a raft of superlative reviews. A beloved grandfather has died, and a treasured family heirloom with religious significance is up 24

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

In The Cinema

(Scan the QR Codes to see the trailers)

Zootropolis

Supplied by: Leanna Carl rabbit, finding it difficult to enforce the law. Judy is determined to make a name for herself and prove her abilities, so when the opportunity arises to solve a mystery case, she jumps at the chance. The problem is, she is partnered alongside a fugitive con artist fox named Nick (Jason Bateman, star of Arrested Development and Horrible Bosses), which makes her job a whole lot harder.

One for the little ones! Not only is this kid-friendly flick fun for the younger generation, but you’ll find it hilarious too. From enormous elephants to smaller rodents, the whole city of Zootopia is a total metropolis for mammals and the animal community is thriving. Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin, star of Once upon a Time and Walk the Line) is the first rabbit to ever join the police force. She soon learns though what a tough and unfamiliar role she is in as an adorable bunny

Can a wily fox and a rookie bunny cop get to the bottom of things, or will they be headed into more trouble? Filled with witty humour and adorable characters, as well as familiar vocal talents from Idris Elba, JK Simmons and Bonnie Hunt, you’ll find it hard not to laugh along with the kids or smile the whole way through.

Out on DVD

Star Wars: The Force Awakens I personally enjoyed all six of the original movies (some more than others), and like many others, I feel they were incredibly well done for their time. This new piece, however, does not disappoint either. The story follows on to show the progression of the dark side and one stormtrooper’s decision to go rogue. Meanwhile, a scavenger named Rey from the planet Jakku (Daisy Ridley) discovers a droid who holds the key to finding Luke Skywalker. The stormtrooper (John Boyega) befriends Rey whilst finding their way out of danger together. Sci-Fi/Fantasy fans rejoice - the latest movie from the Star Wars franchise is available to purchase later this month! Although not everyone is familiar with all of the older episodes, the groundbreaking news that a new episode was headed to the big screen definitely excited a lot of people. Once you watch it through, you’ll see why!

The unlikely team winds up dead centre of an epic battle between The Resistance and The First Order. Looking out for each other and teaming up with two familiar characters, Han and Chewbacca leads to various thrills and frights. This is an exciting cinematic trip for all audiences.

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

EVENT LISTINGS

Local Events Calasara Fitness in exciting full body workouts that include Tyga, Konga, Jagua and Vypa. (Remember to bring drinking water and an exercise mat/towel). Call 07950 747 983 or visit www. calasarafitness.co.uk for more information. Location: Kingfisher Leisure Centre, Fairfield Road, Kingston, Surrey KT1 2PY

The Live Playlist (Every Wednesday) Free Entry Join Pizza Express Kingston for delicious food and a collection of vibrant, energetic music and popular song covers from top musicians. Music starts from 8pm. Call 020 8546 2245 or visit www. pizzaexpresslive.com Location: 41 High Street, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT1 1LQ Try Energy Healing & Reiki (Every Thursday afternoon) Donations Welcome Energising the body, releasing tension and stimulating self-healing with experienced and qualified therapists. All welcome from 1:30pm - 3:30pm. Call 07814 914 163 or pop into the Healing Trust for more information. Location: 2nd Floor, United Reform Church, Eden Street, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT1 1HZ (opposite old post office) Outside the Box Comedy Club (Fortnightly on Mondays from 11th April 2016) See website for prices Showcasing the best UK and International comedians, including some huge TV names. Previous acts have included Bill Bailey, Jimmy Carr and Robin Williams. Head to your local for some top comedy performances. Book tickets at: www. outsidetheboxcomedy.co.uk. Location: The Fighting Cocks Pub, 56 Old London Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT2 6QA The Jungle Body KONGA Class (Every Thursday) (£2.50 for beginners, £5 onwards) From 5:45pm each Thursday, you can join 26

Enormous Children’s Good As New Sale in aid of Cancer Research UK (Saturday 7 th May, 1.30pm – 3.30pm) £2 entry 4 rooms plus large college sports hall full. Refreshments and plenty of free parking on site. Items sorted into age, sex, type. Clothes, equipment, toys, etc. Location: Esher College, Thames Ditton, near station KT7 0JB Kingston Open Arts Studio (11th & 12th and 18th & 19th June, from 11am–5pm ) All welcome Open studios provides an opportunity for you to meet local artists, see their work and find out about the techniques they use and the passions that inspire them. Visit www.kingstonartistsopenstudios. co.uk for more information. Location: Kingston upon Thames Get Back to Work Group (Every Thursday) Free Entry Job searching and application, CV writing, access to basic skills training and more for job seekers incorporating an IT drop-in session for PC queries. These sessions will be supervised by library staff. Call 020 8547 5006 to get in touch with New Malden Library Location: New Malden Library, Kingston Road, New Malden, Surrey KT3 3LY

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

FOREVER LIVING

Aloe Vera Gel Imagine slicing open an aloe leaf and consuming the gel directly from the plant. Forever’s Aloe Vera Gel is as close to the real thing as you can get and was the first of its kind to receive certification by the International Aloe Science Council. This rich blend of pulp and liquid gives us a product as near to nature as possible. PURE Forever’s aloe vera is one of the purest available on the market, avoiding pasteurisation, freeze-drying and heating. QUALITY into your morning routine.

Ensuring the highest quality, Forever cultivates aloe vera on its privately-owned plantations, providing an income for local farmers.

The Forever Aloe Gel is a pure stabilised aloe vera gel which is as close to the natural plant juice as possible, containing over 200 different compounds. This rich source of nutrients provides the perfect supplement to a balanced diet. Drink to promote a healthy lifestyle and wellbeing. The gel is also available with apple and cranberry juice. Price £21.62

INNER LEAF Only the 100% inner-leaf gel of the plant is used. This is skilfully hand-filleted from carefully selected plants. CLEANSE With over 50 million aloe vera crops, our plantations work to cleanse the earth of two million tons of CO2 every year. CONTROL Goats and sheep are used to naturally control weed growth and avoid chemical pesticides and herbicides. Forever has developed a variety of refreshing gel drinks, with the primary ingredient of pure, stabilised aloe vera gel. Each drink contains a range of nutrients that promotes optimal health and vitality. Look after your body inside and out, and incorporate a gel

Forever is a financially stable company, cashrich and debt-free. Trading for over 35 years, Forever has a presence in over 150 countries worldwide. Forever is a member of the Direct Selling Association (DSA) and with IIP accreditation. Forever Living International Inc, is the world’s largest grower and manufacturer of aloe. The company grew in the UK by 70%+ last year and 50%+ in 2014. Such growth is both unprecedented and phenomenal. We are always looking for distributors to help us cope with this growth so that we can sustain higher levels in the future. If you are interested in learning more about this incredible business opportunity, please contact either Joanna or Carole. It is illegal for a promoter or a participant in a trading scheme to persuade anyone to make a payment by promising benefits from getting others to join a scheme. Do not be misled by claims that high earnings are easily achieved. Joanna Stone 07960-247826 Carole McGrath 07802-241308

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

RESIDENTIAL ACCOUNTANT

Beat the deadlines…

Supplied by: Goddards Accountants Kingston Ltd

As we enter the last month of the 2015/16 tax year, it’s not too late to undertake some tax-planning to minimise your tax burden. Some of the ideas below are time-sensitive so you will need to act quickly to take advantage of these. Dividends In 2016/17 a basic rate taxpayer will pay approximately 6% more in tax than in 2015/16. The tax increase may be avoided by taking dividends before 5th April 2016, but you need to ensure that the company meets the conditions for dividend payments and you should check whether it is advantageous for you to do so as there are other implications too. Pension Contributions In 2015/16 tax relief is available on pension contributions of up to £40,000, however there has been a lot of speculation that the tax relief will be reduced or even abolished, possibly on Budget Day, 16th March. To date, the Chancellor has not applied changes retrospectively so it is expected that we still have just under a fortnight to take advantage. Pension contributions can be a very efficient means of not only investing in your future but re-introducing abated personal allowances (where your income is in excess of £100,000), or the avoidance of the High Income Child Benefit Charge (if your income is over £50,000). Stakeholder Pension Any-one (including children) can invest in a Stakeholder pension making contributions of up to £2,880 net (£3,600 gross) in 2015/16. The money could come from a grandparent, for example, and if the grandparent has surplus income available, the gift may be

exempt from Inheritance Tax. Please do, however, seek advice in this point as certain calculations need to be performed and recorded to claim the exemption. ISA Contributions ISA’s are tax-efficient investments in that the income earned by an ISA is not subject to income tax and assets held in an ISA are not subject to Capital gains. In 2015/16 you can invest up to £15,240 in an ISA. Up to £3,080 can be invested in a Junior ISA or Child Trust Fund. Goddards can assist you with pre-yearend tax planning and offer a tax-planning meeting for a fee of £300 plus VAT. If further work is required as a result of that meeting we will provide an estimate. To arrange a meeting please call Derek Williamson on: 020 8941 2187 or email: info@gandco.co.uk

www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ Edition 41

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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

LOCAL TRADES

Here at Omni Local we encourage all of you

Surrey as often as the bigger businesses and

to support your local businesses wherever you

chains. Hopefully we can make a change,

can.

and let you know what excellent services are

We put every effort into backing each business

available right around the corner!

in the Kingston upon Thames area wherever

If you know of any LOCAL trades businesses

possible, as they do for us. Smaller businesses

that have yet to feature in Omni Local,

are incredibly beneficial to our community, and

and you feel they deserve a mention in our

could provide great services to people all over

magazine, please do not hesitate to send us

Surrey. Local companies also tend to bring a

their company details. Maybe you’ve used

much more personal touch to Kingston.

a local service recently and you feel that

Many of the names featured throughout this issue are proof of that, providing increasingly brilliant and friendly services to everyone in the area, and we would like to spread the word!

they should get a mention? If so, please let us know about it and we will do our best to provide support and assist them in promoting their business.

There could be tons of companies out there

Contact John on 07898 870 870 or email

who aren’t mentioned in publications around

sales.omnilocal@gmail.com

www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ Edition 41

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

MOTORING

More Tips for Vehicle Safety

Supplied by: Leanna Carl-Omni Local

Last month we touched on a few of our simple tips on helping you ensure the safety of your vehicle. This month we have more advice for your motoring that we hope you’ll take on board. For example: Opt for a Safer Parking Area if Possible For example, choosing to park up in a poorly lit area and completely out of sight is probably going to be a little bit risky. Try to alight at a more secure car park or out in the open (where available) and in a well-lit area. This will improve your personal safety as well as your vehicle’s safety. When you are attending an event, such as a concert or a sports game, its always worth paying a few extra pounds to park in a safe and more monitored area, such as the stadium car park. How can you possibly enjoy your event when you’re worrying about the safety of your car? If you still don’t want to pay the parking fees, the to park in a safe and distant place, and don’t advertise where you are with merchandise too much. Picture this: You are attending a match to support West Ham, and the hood of your car, parked just outside, is sporting a “go team” banner; or, you have temporarily discarded West Ham scarves and hats on the car seats. It may be more obvious to those working the streets that you won’t be back for a while. They can get away with plenty throughout the mass crows and chaos. Avoid advertisements As you may already know, a lot of interest in your car can stem from “window-shoppers”. 33

This is when passers-by or thieves on the hunt for valuables peek through the windows of your parked car and spy bags, electronics, and other personal belongings whilst they are left on the seats or the dashboard of your car. If your car looks relatively easy to break into for a quick freebie or if you’ve left your windows rolled down a little, unfortunately, you could be asking for trouble. Of course this doesn’t apply if there’s a dog in the backseat. You would be shocked to know that cars are stolen from, about twice as much as they are actually stolen in general. The rate of breakins is estimated at around 1 per hour in some areas of the UK. Be sure to remove any visible boxes, bags or wallets before you lock up, whether or not they are empty, as it could attract unwanted attention. Make sure your locks are fully functional aswell. Some people even place stickers on their windows to warn passers by that the vehicle is alarmed, even if it isn’t.

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames â&#x20AC;˘ April 2016

FINANCE

Could the pension changes affect you and your family?

Supplied by: Mukesh Savani - Foster Denovo

This April certain elements of the Finance Act 2015 are being introduced, which may have the potential to affect your pension planning if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a higher or middle income earner. These latest changes relate primarily to the lifetime allowance and tapered annual allowance. However, as an indirect result of these changes, you may also need to look at whether your death in service benefit could also be affected. You could be a senior doctor, GP, dentist, lawyer, company executive, director, board member, local government or central government. Find out if you may be affected We have put together a guide that we hope will help you understand the pension changes and the impact they may have on you and your family. We will also explain what you should be thinking about now to help protect you and your family from the effect of these changes. What next

more about the changes and what action you could take. Following this, if you think you may be affected, a good start would be to contact me for an initial meeting at no cost to you. After which, it would be clear if there are any issues to be addressed and then I can recommend a strategy and timescales of actions. Request your free guide, please contact Mukesh by calling 0207 469 2800 / 07948 543839 or emailing mukesh.savani@ fosterdenovo.com. If you believe the issues raised in this guide may affect you, our specialist financial advisers like Mukesh Savani can discuss your options with you. Mukesh Savani MBA DipPFS, Partner

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www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

PROPERTY

Lucie White & Co: An Interview with Lucie White

Supplied by: Lucie White & Company

When did you start your business and why? I set up LW & Co in Autumn 2007. After 10 years of working in property for John D Wood and Hamptons International, an opportunity arose to manage a friend’s portfolio and it all began from there. What is Special about your business? I run a lettings-based business offering property management, refurbishment and investment advice. It is a bespoke and personalised service. The person you instruct is the person who works for you. Unlike many High Street firms, I tailor my service to match each client’s requirements and budget.

satisfied clients to prove it. The lows are the behind the scenes stuff, just as meeting at the back with accountants and lawyers. Its

How has running your own business affected

all essential stuff but not the most exciting

your life?

side.

My days have gotten longer! I have many

Lucie White is the owner and founder of

clients in Japan, USA and Hong Kong, so the

Lucie White & Company, offering property

time differences come into play. I really enjoy

services and advice to private landlords

running my company – the work is so varied

across South West London and Surrey. If

and truly rewarding.

you’d like to find out more about their fresh

What have been the high and low points of

take on lettings and property management,

your enterprise?

visit lucie@luciewhite.com or call 020 8549 8064.

The high point is that the business I have planned and dreamed of for a long time is actually working – and working well. I have 37

www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ Edition 41

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • April 2016

WORD SEARCH Comedy Movies Find the words hidden in the grid of letters.

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Solutions on our website - www.omnilocal.co.uk

www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 41

RESTAURANT REVIEW

The Ferry Gurkha Kitchen, Thames Ditton This month we visited the recently opened Ferry Gurkha Kitchen. What a lovely transformation Cepe Pun has achieved. A clean, smart restaurant and bar, with a welcoming atmosphere, created by tasteful décor with a Nepalese twist. We were greeted by smiling, helpful Nepalese staff and gentle background music from Nepal. The menu gives plenty of choice, mild to very spicy, vegetarian or not, meals with a tasty fusion of Asian delights. The food was absolutely delicious. The mo mo spicy steamed chicken dumpling and sekuwa grilled lamb with nepali spices set our taste buds buzzing. The hill boy special and Everest lamb had the most tender Smithfield lamb and delicious kathmandu chicken. As it is all freshly cooked, there were no problems with catering for my allergies.

If Nepalese is not for you, Steak night is on Tuesday, where traditional English pub lunches are served daily, such as fish & chips or burgers, and roasts on Sunday. Enough to satisfy all! Thank you to Cepe, his talented chefs and staff for a lovely evening. We will definitely be popping in to try your lunchtime menus! CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST MONTH’S COMPETITON WINNER LIZ JABOURIAN! WE HOPE YOU ENJOY YOUR MEAL AT PEPPE’S ITALIAN.

Competition Time This month’s prize Meal for 2 + a bottle of wine @ The Ferry - Gurkha Restaurant & Bar

To win this month’s prize just answer our simple question below and post it on the Omni Local Facebook Page.

The Ferry Gurkha Restaurant & Bar

Q: What country do the Gurkhas come from?

www.theferrygurkharestaurant.co.uk 0208 398 1581 Ferry Street, Thames Ditton, KT7 0XY Competition Rules: You must like both Omni Local & The Competition providers Facebook page. The prize will be drawn at random on the last day of this months issue. Omni Local accepts no liability for this competition. This prize is not transferable, and can not be exchanged for any cash value. This prize is only valid to the competition winner. For full terms and conditions please contact Omni Local

OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames â&#x20AC;˘ April 2016

JobSpot Telemarketing executive required for a local partnership company. Sales and office-based experience required. Email: daniella.asante@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Or call: 020 8546 8686

Events professional (all levels) required for an exciting events company! Must have stable experience in events. Email: georgina.carter@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Or call: 020 8546 8686

Calling all temps full and part time- all levels required for immediate bookings in the local area. Competitive salaries. Email: beverley.pope@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Or call: 020 8546 8686

Part-Time finance manager required. Must be a part-qualified accountant, ACCA or CIMA. Good finance and staff supervising experience required. Email: anne.lapham@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk. Or call: 020 8546 8686

Calling bright graduates looking to start a career in entry level administration/customer service. Email: georgina.carter@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Or call: 020 8546 8686

Senior product manager required for local electronics company. Must be degree educated or equivalent. ÂŁ45-50,000 per annum Email: georgina.carter@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Or call: 020 8546 8686

Send us your job listing for free. Just call us: 0207 183 0404

www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ Edition 41

TRADE & DOMESTIC CUSTOMERS WELCOME

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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames â&#x20AC;˘ April 2016

www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ Edition 41

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Kingston Property experts, with a team dedicated to premium customer service. 97%* exposure to the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most visited residential property websites. 6 times winner of Lettings Agent of the Year in the last 6 years.** 13-15 Richmond Road, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey KT2 5BW Tel: 020 3151 6435 Email: lettings.kingston@gpees.co.uk * of the visits to the most visited UK residential property websites. Hitwise Oct 2013 ** 2013, 2010 & 2008 Negotiator Awards, 2012 RESI Awards, 2010 & 2011 ESTAS Awards as part of Countrywide Residential Lettings.