Supporting Local Business & Local Charities
Kingston Upon Thames Issue No. 48
Xmas & New Year Edition THIS MONTH • • • •
Planning for Christmas Making Resolutions How to beat the cold! Check out this month’s Competition! Page 40
Image courtesy of Klicksmart Photography www.klicksmartphotography.com Home | Health & Beauty | DIY | LOCAL Trades | Jobs | Family | Puzzles Competitions | LOCAL Charity | Cooking | Gardening | History Travel | Wellbeing |Events | Business Advice | Places to Go | Art
www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
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To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
Hello everyone! This is most likely the best time of year for this message! We have had an amazing year! When I think back about 2016 it will be one of the most memorable. There have been some bad moments, and a huge list of loved icons passing away, but there’s so much more going on! It’s been a monumental year in politics, with the change of President in the USA, and agree or not, Brexit! But, looking back at the positive things – we have had Tim Peake, an astronaut from Sussex coming back from Space, The Queen celebrated her 90th Birthday, Andy Murray crowned No1 in the world, Pokemon getting people wandering around while staring into phones, a meteor shower and Super Moon, the Olympics and the shocking exit of British Bake off no longer running on the BBC! This month, we have 2 new advertisers- Moksha on page 41 and Synergy Worldwide on page 33 make sure you check them out! The year is not over! There are so many events happening around Kingston. Christmas Choirs, Concerts, The Craft Fair and lots of shops, (by now) packed with treats for the Christmas festivities! No matter what your faith or beliefs are, it’s a nice time of the year! It’s starting to get cold out there, so please remember those who may be vulnerable! If you need to ask someone if they need help, they most likely do! Don’t ask, just offer! (if there is anything we can do to help, let us know). On a little personal note, our puppy is now 3 months old….he has tripled in weight and is still stopping traffic with people wanting to say hello to him! He has passed the yelping at night stage, so more sleep is had by all! The door bell has gone, deliveries from Amazon……Ohhh pressies!!! Have a wonderful festive holiday and Ill be raising my glass at New Year’s for you all. In the meantime, please stay safe! 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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Contents: Local Business Focus Caroline Ewans - The Story Pot Wimbledon
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Community Section This Months Charity – Momentum Community Person - Nicola Withycombe Kingston Police Advice Kingston Rotary
6-13
Arts Section Kingston Artists Open Studios
15
Home Section Keep your Home in Top Shape
37
Cooking Corner Recipes from EatWright
20
Gardening Section Gardening Tips for the Month
21
Health & Beauty Jinny Beauty Untangle Your Life
20-21
This Months Special Feature Planning for Xmas and New Year’s!
22-23
Places to Go Rose Theatre Listings Local Events Music Heritage London At the Cinema – Office Christmas Party Out Now on DVD – Suicide Squad
24-28
Motoring Section Safety Tips on the Road
36
DIY Section Jobs to do Around the Home
37
Synergy Section Being in Business for Yourself
33
Accounting & Finance Goddards Residential Accountant
35
Local Trades Section Use One of our Excellent Local Trades
31
Travel Section Going Away for the Holidays
29
Games & Puzzles Section Crossword Sudoku Word Search Monthly Competition & Review
38-40
LOCAL JOBS
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www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
LOCAL BUSINESS
This section is all about local business owners who support Omni Local, and we would like you to get to know these hard working, dedicated people. This month I am talking to Caroline Ewans from The Wimbledon Story Pot.
Supplied by: Caroline Ewans - The Story Pot
Q1: Hi Caroline, could you please tell our readers a little bit about The Wimbledon Story Pot? A1: I am an independent pop up children’s bookseller, based in Wimbledon, but covering southwest London and north Surrey. I only sell books from small independent publishers, which you rarely see in the high street chains. All our books have something special about them, whether fiction or non-fiction. Q2: How long have you been in this line of business now? A2: I started out in publishing when I left university and had 17 years of experience in editorial and foreign sales. I have been selling children’s books for three years and have worked with The Story Pot since August 2015. I collected children’s books before I had children! Q3: What do you enjoy most about this type of work?
grandparents and carers with children aged 0 to 12. I have a pop up shop at a cafe and am looking for similar venues – I bring in people who come because they know I will be there regularly. Q6: Do you have any special offers/ promotions on at the moment? A6: Any Omni readers who buy three or more books direct from me will be offered a 10% discount until 31 January. Just quote “Omni offer”. Q7: Brilliant! Do you have any advice for those looking to get into a similar line of work?
A3: I really love helping my customers choose the books that are just right for their children. I also like the buzz of being a market trader at events large and small! Q4: What kind of services does The Wimbledon Story Pot have to offer? A4: I sell my books at fairs, markets and other events, at cafes, and also direct to schools and nurseries (with a discount) and at coffee mornings. Customers can also order through our website, or direct from me to avoid postage charges (and to return a book if you change your mind). Q5: What is your usual clientele?
A7: If you love quality children’s books but would like to pay less for them, you would enjoy being a Story Pot bookseller. We are not a network marketing company, so you are under no pressure to recruit. We just want more children to have access to the original, beautifully illustrated books that we offer. To find out more about The Wimbledon Story Pot, please call 07890 997018, email caroline.ewans@zoho.com or visit www. thestorypot.co.uk/?bookseller=carolineew ans. and for my latest blogs, please check out http://www.youcreativerebel.co.uk/blog/
A5: My customers are mums, dads,
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www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
CARE IN THE COMMUNITY
THIS MONTH’S Supplied by: CHARITY Leanna Carl - Omni Local
Introducing your Family to Energy Healing For many, the term “Energy Healing” can sound a little unusual – most people have their mind set on taking a pill to ease their problems. However, when you think about the damage you can do to your body when all you do is supplement yourself with ingredients you know nothing about – not to mention some medications can lead to addiction; why not take the leap and see how a professional healer can help you in times of distress? Energy healing can help to ease any tension you and your family may be feeling, particularly during the busy Christmas season. Ideally, this time of year comes with joyous togetherness and high spirits, but the additional stress of pulling things together for the big day, or setting impractical resolutions for the new year can start to cause friction between you or make you feel as though you’re in over your head. Broken down, the benefits of giving and receiving healing energy include: improved immune system – natural pain relief/reduction – deep relaxation – anxiety relief -
stress management – relaxation – emotional wellness – personal insight – personal growth – chakra healing/balancing – grounding – support with your goals and aspirations. As long as you find someone trustworthy and experienced, you and your loved ones are on track to a better way of life and can set yourself aspirational goals or New Year’s resolutions for 2017. This Page is Sponsored By Ravinder Kaur Kleir:
ENERGY HEALER RAVINDER KAUR KLEIR (07733 826 451) Are you ever in pain? Be that physical pain, emotional, mental or spiritual conflict. Or do you feel you are stagnant in your life? You may have some or all of your material needs met, such as financial abundance, partner, successful career, roof over your head; but yet you still feel something is missing from your life. You yearn for happiness, contentment and joy in all your experiences but they seem to get lost whilst you are in the process of living your life. There seems to be a lack within, a void…which doesn’t seem to go away despite exploring various avenues to tackle this emptiness. Having healing will support you on your life’s journey and help you to become unstuck, and find meaning/purpose in your life as well as fill that void with peace, love and contentment. You will find your relationships, circumstances and overall wellbeing healthier and stronger. As the emptiness disappears, life will become more enriching as you begin to let go of all that hasn’t supported you in the past and make room for the new. Why not treat yourself or a loved one to some healing? For further information, contact Ravinder on 07733 826451.
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To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
COMMUNITY PERSON
Nicola Withycombe Founder of Kids Come First
Supplied by: Nicola Withycombe - KCF
Whether we’re divorcing, separating or ‘consciously uncoupling’, around 50% of adult partnerships end these days. As a result, more adults and children have to find a way to deal with the emotional impact and traumatic effects of the family breakdown situation. Working for several years at a local family mediation service, Kids Come First Founder, Nicola Withycombe, became acutely aware of how overwhelmed many parents are by the various stages of loss & grief when reaching the end of their intimate, co-parenting relationships. Equally, she soon identified the distinct lack of support available when dealing with the dramatic, confusing ups & downs of the divorce and separation ‘journey’.
their children crave at this difficult time. Once communication breaks down and parental mistrust sets in, the conflict often escalates and has a negative impact on children – especially when matters end up in the Family Courts.
For many separating parents, panic sets in whilst navigating and resolving the legal and financial implications of their separation. Often, this lengthy process happens at the expense of their children (who are mostly in a state of shock, confusion and emotional turmoil) as, unintentionally, parents lose focus on how to address their emotional needs.
Kids Come First workshops help parents maintain a collaborative, co-parenting relationship with their ex-partner. We aim to keep matters out of the family courts and protect children from the emotional damage caused by prolonged parental battles. We examine the different ages of children so that parents can further understand their behaviours and responses; knowing what to look out for and how to deal with each situation that arises. At the heart of the Kids Come First lies a philosophy that by helping parents cope better - we help children cope better too!
To provide a much-needed support forum for parents, in 2015 Nicola decided to set up Kids Come First, a community interest company delivering professional, childfocused, teaching workshops for the benefit of parents and indirectly, their children. Collaborating with a well-respected colleague, they developed a program of specialist adult teaching material, combining their experience and expertise working with separated parents, and specialist training in the fields of mediation, family therapy & child counselling.
Workshops are held in Hampton (easily accessible for parents living in the boroughs of Richmond, Kingston or Hounslow) and sessions are run on Tuesday evenings or Saturday mornings to accommodate working parents. Get in touch via email at: kidscomefirstuk@mail.com for more info or visit our website: kidscomefirstuk.co.uk to find out how we can help you.
They have encountered many parents who were unable to work together or agree, thus being unable to provide the vital structure
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www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
POLICE ADVICE
Kingston has one of the highest life expectancies in England!
Supplied by: Alison McWinnie - MET Police LIFT - LOCK - REMOVE. Put the key in a safe place out of sight in case of fire.
However, because of this nearly half of Kingston Hospital’s patients over 75 have dementia; double the national average. From a policing perspective, those living with dementia can become missing persons; a highly distressing situation for all involved. Kingston Police are introducing a system that will help find those at risk of becoming a missing person more quickly. We will be explaining this new system at an event on Wednesday 18th January, 7pm, Glenmore House, Surbiton. The speaker line-up includes Kingston Hospital, Kingston Alzheimer’s Society and Kingston Carers, highlighting the help and care that is available. Whether you know or care for someone living with dementia, or whether you would just like to find out more, do join us for this free informative evening. Email KingstonNHW@gmail.com to reserve your place; everyone welcome.
3. Lock garages and sheds so garden tools and ladders can’t be used to break into your home. 4. Keep side gates locked and wheelie bins stored behind them. 5. Use timer switches linked to lights and a radio so it appears that someone is at home. 6. Invest in a safe for valuables and sentimental items and securely fix it to a solid surface. 7. Install a visible intruder alarm system burglars don’t want to be seen or heard. 8. Install low level ‘dusk till dawn’ lighting to increase visibility and deter burglars.
Daylight hours are starting to slip away... all the more reason to take note of the top things burglars look for!
9. Keep side and rear boundaries high to restrict access and front boundaries low to remove hiding places. 10. Photograph and mark valuables with your postcode and house number/name. Register items with serial numbers at immobilise.com. 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 This page is sponsored by Nolt Security:
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To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
LOCAL CHARITY
THIS MONTH’S CHARITY Supplied by:
Can you Help Momentum Children’s Charity Sprinkle some Christmas Magic?
Yvonne Winborn - Momentum
The festive season is a busy period for local children’s cancer charity Momentum, as they help to brighten up Christmas for many sick children locally, with special trips and treats. Around a dozen families will enjoy a magical Momentum Golden Bus Trip to see the Christmas lights in London this year, an annual trip for sick children, made possible thanks to the generosity of Arriva, and approximately 60 children will get to visit Momentum’s very own Santa’s Grotto in December.
Donations, no matter how small, could help make a huge difference to a Momentum family this Christmas:
At this time of year, the charity also sends many of the families it supports on muchneeded respite breaks to its two log cabins in the New Forest.
£10 buys a Christmas present for a seriously ill child. £30 pays for a Father Christmas surprise to a child at home.
For some, it is a chance to have a short break during gruelling hospital treatment for their child, while for others, who have sadly lost a child, Christmas is a difficult time and the holiday homes provide a tranquil escape for quiet reflection.
£70 pays for a Christmas bus trip to London for a family. £100 pays for a Festive Fairy visit to children in hospital.
During the festive season the charity’s new canalboat ‘Moments on the River’ will also be busy taking families on day trips and overnight breaks on the beautiful river Thames.
£300 will pay for a family to have a break at one of Momentum’s holiday homes.
Momentum’s co-founder Bianca Effemey said: “Momentum has always been about making the dark times more bearable for families coping with a child with cancer or a life-limiting condition. Never is this more pertinent than over the festive season when many children continue to face regular hospital visits and treatment, with some even spending Christmas Day in hospital. We are enormously grateful for any donations that will help us to bring them some Christmas cheer.”
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To make a donation or buy a gorgeous Christmas gift from Momentum visit www. moment-um.org/get-involved/donate/ Momentum, based in Kingston, supports families of children with cancer and lifelimiting conditions in SW London and Surrey.
www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
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Love Kingston Day 2017
Feeling lost, lonely or being without caring contact with others has a profound effect on our health and well-being. Love Kingston is a fund supporting small local charities that are tackling isolation. Our Legacy Fund will help local people for generations to come. Create an event or challenge this Love Kingston Day on 14 February and help us change lives today and tomorrow.
www.love-kingston.org.uk 10
To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
Happy Christmas from Kingston Rotary This year we are benefitting from a wonderful new 11 metre high artificial Christmas tree provided by Kingston First to use as the hub for our traditional collecting efforts to support local charities. Some 40 charities working locally have been invited to participate and we are busy allocating slots to those who wish to do so. If you know a charity that would like to take part, suggest that they contact us via our website: www. kingstonrotaryclub.or.uk. Collections will run from 1st to 24th December inclusive between 11.00AM and 5.00PM and the expectation is that despite his very busy schedule Santa will be in attendance at some time during the morning and afternoon every day!
KINGSTON ROTARY Supplied by: Janet Bacon - Kingston Rotary
their parents with them to say hello and make a contribution to his collection. But recognising the need for parents to enjoy a quiet night he will only be visiting between 6-8PM! Stay tuned in to our Facebook page to see which dates your favourite charities are collecting in Clarence Street and when we might be visiting your street!
In addition, we are looking to help the charities to collect even more by providing some form of entertainment for part of each day and if readers are in a position to help with this, please contact us via the above website or our Facebook page. As usual, Santa has made arrangements for some of his elves to accompany him to Clarence Street on Christmas Eve where they will (they told me) entertain passersby whilst attempting to relieve them of notes and coin in a good cause! There may even be some mince pies on offer…… and entertainment too! Santa will also be busy visiting local streets in Berrylands, Ham, Kingston, Norbiton, North Kingston, The Dittons, Hinchley Wood, Esher and Cobham accompanied by carols and collectors from local charities taking the message of Christmas out to young and old alike. Santa very much welcomes many of his younger admirers coming out and bringing
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If you would like to make a donation to our Christmas Appeal you can do so by visiting our website: www.kingstonrotaryclub.org.uk and clicking on the donate button to reach our Just Giving page or by texting KTR16 £5 to 70070. If you would like to help your local community, why not think about joining our Rotary Club? To find out how you can join, visit www.kingstonrotaryclub.org.uk or email membership@kingstonrotaryclub.org.uk.
www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
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To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
Christmas in Kingston Christmas is coming – and, as the old song goes, “the goose is getting fat!” And did you know that as recently as the late 1940s geese were actually auctioned in Kingston’s ancient market place on Christmas Eve?
LOCAL HISTORY Supplied by: Mike Seigel - Kingston Tour Guides
Did you also know that the ancient market place, recently refurbished and thus given a fresh look, dates back to the late 12th century? It has been flourishing ever since, adding to the town’s prosperity throughout the centuries. In the 16th century Mary Tudor (known as “Bloody Mary”) granted the town extra market days in return for its loyalty to her during Wyatt’s abortive rebellion early in her reign. A century later Charles I (who was later to fight the Civil War and lose his head!) passed a law whereby no other town within 7 miles could hold a market, giving Kingston a monopoly within the area, which did a great deal to boost the local economy. The market place thrived, especially throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries when stage coaches would stop in Kingston as their first port of call on the road southwest to Portsmouth, and we still of course have the Portsmouth Road. Many stayed overnight in the numerous coaching inns, such as the Druid’s Head – the only inn to survive to this day as a pub, but with a different name. It was in a room upstairs at the Druid’s Head that Jerome K Jerome wrote his opening chapters of his famous book, ‘Three Men in a Boat’. The market place was also the setting for an annual football match each Shrove Tuesday, probably dating back to the Middle Ages. This often led to such drunken revelry and riotous behaviour that it was eventually banned during the reign of Queen Victoria.
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Nowadays, most Christmas shopping is done in the modern stores which dominate the town, but over the past few years a German style Christmas market has come to our very English market place, and I hope that, while you enjoy a glass (or two!) of gluwein, you might care to reflect on just how old our market place is and perhaps, in the magical fantasy of Christmas, you might even imagine some of the historical happenings that took place here! If you are interested in the varied history of our town, why not join one of our tours, led by specially trained volunteers? During the winter season, walks take place every first Sunday of the month until April, when they take place every Sunday until the end of September. The charge is £5 per adult - or you can arrange a special tour for you and your friends at a time to suit you. OR … you might like to become a guide yourself! If so, we are running a course next year starting on 16 January; for further details please look at our website www. kingstontourguides.org.uk.
www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
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To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
ARTS
Bah Humbug!
Supplied by: Caroline Calascione - KAOS
It’s that time of the year again and even though it is unseasonably warm, the lights are being switched on and the decorations are going up, lists are being written and plans made, Christmas is coming! But sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming; too many lights (most of them not working for various incomprehensible, but probably electrical reasons), the decorations crushed, the lists lost and even the best laid plans gang aft agley as Robert Burns wrote (Tae a Mouse). So to inject a little lightheartedness into the mix, KAOS – Kingston Artists’ Open Studios - are holding an exhibition from Friday, 25 November to Sunday 11 December, above the art supply shop Cass Art. We are calling it Bah Humbug. It’s not really anti-Christmas, but with a lovely wide and very varied selection of art to feast your eyes on - drawings, paintings, etchings, ceramics, cards and
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all at reasonable prices - there’s bound to be something that would make the perfect gift for that special someone. For those who can’t get enough art, eleven members of KAOS are holding an exhibition at The Lightbox in Woking. The artists are very excited that their show will be coinciding with The Lightbox’s own wonderful exhibition of work by Henry Moore. The show, entitled Obverse & Obvious, runs from Saturday, 26 November to Sunday, 4 December. For more information, visit kingstonartistsopenstudios.co.uk.
www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
The Cooking Corner Cod with sauerkraut Serves 4 Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • •
1 onion, finely chopped 3 tbsp olive oil 700g fresh (organic) sauerkraut 5-6 juniper berries or cloves, crushed or roughly chopped 3 bay leaves 600g cod fillets 100g fresh prawns 15g plant based protein powder to dust the cod, optional Himalayan salt and freshly ground black pepper 16-20 drops pure liquid Stevia 4 stalks flat leaf parsley, finely chopped
7. When the sauerkraut is cooked, pour off any excess water, season with salt and pepper and add the Stevia. 8. Briefly fry the prawns in the left over oil from frying the cod, until they are pink. 9. Divide the sauerkraut, fish and prawns over 4 plates. 10. Garnish with parsley.
Method: 1. Heat 1½ tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan and fry the onion over a medium heat until soft. 2. Add the sauerkraut, juniper berries or cloves and the bay leaves, and fry briefly. 3. Add 525ml water to the sauerkraut mixture and bring to the boil. 4. Reduce the heat and cook for 15 minutes on the lowest heat. 5. Dry the fish with kitchen towel, coat with the protein powder and sprinkle with salt 6. Heat the left over 1½ tbsp. olive oil in a frying pan and fry the fish over a medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Nutritional value per person: Carbohydrates: 10 Protein portion: 1 ½ Vegetable portion: 1 Find more sugar-free recipes like this in the new EatWright cook book! Visit eatwright.co.uk for more information.
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To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
GARDENING
Tools of the Trade
Supplied by: Janet Bacon
Winter is the time for maintenance in the garden and using the right equipment will ensure that the jobs are completed as quickly and easily as possible. So, if you are looking for items to put on your Christmas list, it is worth selecting the best quality garden tool you can afford. The main decision is stainless steel or coated steel - stainless steel will not rust, but are more expensive. Once purchased, all tools should last for years provided they are oiled and cleaned properly at the end of each year. A good quality spade and fork are the workhorses and need to be selected at the right height and size to make them easier to use and save on back strain. Wooden or metal shafts are a personal choice but make sure that they are firmly attached to the head and the handle. Once the ground has been dug over, you’ll need a garden rake to break up the soil lumps and level the bed in preparation for sowing seeds or planting. For ease in clearing leaves from the lawn a spring tine rake is extremely useful as its flexible wire tines make it ideal for lifting dry or even wet leaves or other debris. Once piled the leaves can be bagged to make leafmould for next year and to help with this task you have the choice of either large or long handled leaf collectors. When it comes to weeding you will need a hoe, which is a long handled tool with a sharp blade on the end and this agitates the surface of the soil whilst also cutting foliage from the roots. These come in a number of different designs and shapes of hoe but the main ones are a draw hoe (meaning you pull the hoe towards you with the blade on one side only) or a Dutch hoe (which has a blade on both sides and therefore can be used either towards or away from you).
transplanting and dividing smaller plants. Secateurs are the perfect hand tool for pruning and cutting back plants in your garden. They are well suited to delicate work that would be difficult with loppers or a pruning saw. Use them for stems up to the diameter of a pencil as cutting anything wider could damage their blades. Again, you have the choice of either anvil (the blade is sharpened on both sides, and when the secateurs are closed, the blade meets a flat metal or plastic block) or bypass (the blade is sharpened on just one side, which cuts past a curved metal surface, similar to a pair of scissors). Finally, my favourite tool is a daisy grubber (a long, narrow, two-pronged hand tool, designed to lever out longrooted weeds) but is invaluable for weeding in gravel and in pots. To get in touch, please email j.bacon@ tiscali.co.uk or call 020 8393 7970.
This article was supplied Leonie Wright from Eat Wright. For smaller jobs a handbyfork and trowel are essential to allow you to have more control and work in confined space. These can be used for planting either bulbs or plants and weeding or
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www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
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To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
Winter Warmers for the Home
HOME Supplied by: Leanna Carl - Omni Local
Whilst the weather gets gloomier and the daylight grows shorter, everyone can agree that there is no place like home! Nothing makes us happier than getting home from a long day at work or a strenuous, blustery shopping spree. What you don’t want is to come home only to find its just as cold and gloomy! Have you taken precautions to ensure a toasty, comforting atmosphere around the house this winter? When was the last time you had your boiler checked? Top of the list for the chilly months would be to get your boiler serviced. This is for obvious reasons - you’ll need your central heating! Not to mention a cold shower is the last thing you need when waking up for work every day. Just make sure that you have a registered professional check your boiler before continuing regular use. Its better to sort these things now than at Christmas when you won’t be able to get anyone to come and take a look at it. Scope out those draughty areas! Draughtiness could be due to cracks in windows, insecure window frames, gaps around doors or even letterboxes. You could use draught excluders for most things, as they are easy to fit, low-cost and sure to keep any chills from entering your home. If its coming from the window, consider contacting businesses like Novaglass to install thicker windows, or repair window frames yourself. Even re-hinging doors is a job you can do at home. We’ve even shown you how in previous editions of Omni Local! Refer to www.issuu.com/omnilocal/docs if you’d like some DIY advice, particularly in our Winter editions. Really give your home that holiday feel. Even simple jobs like a fresh coat of paint, particularly when using richer colours like creams and deep red shades, can add a 19
warmer atmosphere to any room. You may even consider a new fireplace for a real Christmas feel. There are many ways to enrich your home, including upholstering, a new rug or new lighting. If you tend to hang up your washing rather than tumbledrying, you can also find that sometimes your clothes don’t dry out as well in the cold, which can mean your fabrics losing freshness. A quick fix may be to add dryer sheets to your drawers or investing in scented liners, otherwise you can create pouches of your favourite potpourri scent. A great way to freshen up your home and to add a little festivity is by making pomanders. All you need is oranges and cloves, and the bonus - oranges are a great way to combat many types of insects who may be looking for somewhere warm to go this winter!
www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
How to avoid being one of the 66% of adults who break New Year resolutions within one month or less.
HEALTH & FITNESS Supplied by: Claire Dyson - Untangle Your Life
Attach pleasure to the new habit, pain to the old: Humans seek pleasure and avoid pain (Freud, Tony Robbins, many others). As you pull on your gym kit, if you are thinking “I hate exercise” (pain) how will you resist slipping back into the pleasure of TV on the sofa whilst munching crisps? So…… Be clear about the “why”: Neuroscientist Dr. Toleikyte suggests listing as close to 50 benefits of the new behaviour and 50 drawbacks of staying where you are as you can. Re-read first thing to cement in your brain WHY you want the new habit more than the old.
with evidence you can do it.
One stepping-stone at a time: You cross a raging river not with a single leap but by stepping onto the closest rock, then the next, then the next till you are across. Pick one habit to change and take small steps to avoid triggering the “flight” response in which your brain “freaks out” (Dr Toleikyte again) at the unfamiliar routine, it all gets too much and you run back to the safety of the old habit. Set realistic expectations: Whatever you are trying to change took time to get how it is, so it is logical that re-training your brain will also takes time. A 2009 UCL study showed it look an average of 66 days to change a habit, longer if it was complicated. Factor this into your plans.
Look after yourself: Taking breaks whilst working and sleeping and eating well reduces overall levels of stress and tiredness and defuses these two triggers of “to hell with it” moments. Escape the habit-web: Behaviour we want to change is often held in place by other habits e.g. on the way to work you buy coffee in a shop, so you buy a pastry. Take coffee with you to avoid the shop and using up (finite) willpower resisting that pastry. Think about breaking chains of habits which have you shackled to behaviour you want to change. untangleyourlife.wordpress.com
Stop “all or nothing” thinking. If today is not going 100% to plan, do what you can, you are still making progress. Rewards: Plan in rewards (pleasure) for reaching each stepping stone towards your goal. Record your progress so when selfesteem is flagging you can boost yourself 20
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
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www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
SPECIAL FEATURE
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Supplied by: Leanna Carl - Omni Local everyone gets something nice and you’re not checking the sofa for change just to get a box of crackers for the Christmas table! Why not suggest a secret Santa this year? Sure, it can still take planning, means fewer gifts exchanged, and there may be that one stubborn gift giver who can’t seem to leave anyone without a token of some sort (which is sweet, but frustrating for others); but have the discussion, set budgets, or simply save this for other areas. For example, everyone spoils each other at home, but your distant relatives or work mates do a secret Santa? However things go, quantity isn’t important anyway, as long as there’s effort. Get online!
Here we are again, its the most wonderful time of the year! - For most of us anyway, as the chilly weather and additional strains on the wallet become far too apparent for some. Hopefully, you’ll all see this time of year as a time for family, for giving and sharing, for looking back on the past year with fond memories and making great plans for the next one. However, if some of you are getting a little anxious about pulling things together and a bit stressed whenever you check your bank balance – hopefully this article will help!
Rather than spend the majority of December running around all those stores with the word “SALE” in the window, and trotting back to the supermarket for the forgotten or absent dinner ingredients – why not see if you can get things delivered? Granted, a lot of supermarkets are in high demand when things are left too late, but it doesn’t hurt to check and as long as you don’t wait until the last week, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to find something great for your loved ones.
Shop smart We would all love to blow the bank on that perfect present, for your children, your significant other or your friends, but everyone is aware of how hard it is to make ends meet this time of year, so put away that “perfect present agenda” and just be thoughtful. Save the big spends for Birthdays instead. There is nothing wrong with setting a budget either – this way, no one feels guilty,
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
Plan New Year’s Early There is nothing worse than making it through Christmas, feeling the festivity wear off and spending the big sign off to the year sat at home, watching the countdown on your own – invite everyone over and polish off the rest of those Christmas party leftovers, create interesting cocktails with those half-empty alcohol bottles, or simply set some money aside in order to go for drinks or head into town! As long as you set a plan early, you’ll know how much money you need (if any) to make it happen!
This helps take some of the stress out of your day, and is something you can do from the comfort of your sofa, during a relaxed evening, or even on a lunch break when you feel like scrolling through Facebook and so on. You could even use Facebook as a way of collecting photos of friends and family, and get them printed on a canvas or a mug for someone special.
Last year, my New Year’s was the best I’ve had in a while, and all it took was to make a big curry feast (homemade is so much cheaper than a takeaway!), some unused ingredients made into party nibbles, setting up my uncle’s karaoke machine and getting as many family members as possible to come over. We sang, had a few entertaining quizzes, watched the countdown and revisited the leftover Christmas liquers and prosecco, then finished with a bit of a (admittedly tipsy) dancing together. What better way to set up the new year than with the ones you love most?
Keeping Notes can be a Lifesaver List who you’re buying for, note ideas for each person and rough costs and figure out how much money you’re going to need. You can also make a list of all the food shopping you’ll need to do and can either purchase online, or do a virtual online shop without checking out, just to see how much it all comes to. It really cushions the blow when actually getting your cash and cards ready for the big payment. Save money in the meantime by working overtime, cutting out bought lunches and making them instead, lowering your Costa/ Starbucks spendings and generally planning out all the other ways to avoid spending unneccessary pounds, including eating at restaurants, going to the movies and having drinks after work. There’s no reason to cut out all the fun parts, but for the short term, it can’t hurt to tighten the purse strings here and there. I know one of my biggest money hits comes from finding too many great gift ideas for someone and having to make things equal with everyone else, so making lists and ticking people off really does help. 23
If you aren’t able to host anything big this year, see what’s going on - head to London for the fireworks or even get on the phone/ internet and wish your loved ones the best. Don’t let the year start off without a bang!
www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
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www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
EVENT LISTINGS
Local Events Feel Good Fridays (Weekly) From £5 per hour Drop-in sessions for over 60’s Yoga from 12pm – 1.30pm and Chair Yoga from 2.45pm. Therapeutic Massages 9 – 5 for ½ hr. Put yourself in safe hands for the cure and prevention of pain through remedial massage therapy. Call 07958 459 725 for more information. Location: Surrey House, Eden Street, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT1 1ER The Live Playlist (Every Thursday) 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) Eden Crafts Christmas Fair All welcome (17th November – 31st December 2016) The Eden Crafts marquee is filled with one of a kind, quality gifts and antiques; however, huge developments this year will turn the whole town into the largest Christmas event in the UK! Alpine wooden chalets will feature throughout the town, where there will be music, great food and festive fun all round. Visit www.edencrafts.co.uk for more information. Location: Grounds All Saints Parish Church, Clarence Street, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT1 1JS.
Discussing topics as varied as the latest political issues, science, the arts, history, television, sport...the list is endless! You are guaranteed a civilised and absorbing evening, listening to the main speakers, and having your chance to speak for up to ten minutes. Visit www.kingstondebating.org.uk for more information. Location: Methodist Church Hall, Kingston upon Thames, Avenue Road, off Fairfield South, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2UJ. The Fircroft Trust Christmas Concert (Friday 2nd December 2016 at 7:30pm) Tickets £10 (£5 for children) With friends from West End Shows and the Surbiton Community Choir, soprano singer Katy Treharne will be entertaining with a selection of Christmas songs, carols and arias. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine/juice and a mince pie and take part in this year’s raffle to raise funds for Fircroft. Please email hilary@thefircrofttrust.org or call 020 8399 1772 for more information. Location: St Paul’s Church, Hook Road, Chessington, Surrey KT9 1PF. Burns Night Supper and Ceilidh (Friday 27th January 2017) See website for prices Join Momentum for their first ever Burns Night Supper and Ceilidh from 6:30pm until midnight. This includes a delicious threecourse traditional Burns Night supper (with a bagpiper and a tot of whiskey to toast the haggis!) and followed by Ceilidh dancing. Please call Natalie Harvey on 020 8399 1772 for more information or visit moment-um.org Golden Memories Café (Fortnightly on Wednesdays from 7th December 2016 £2 per person to include all refreshments Golden Memories Cafe is a café for people in the Richmond Borough living with Dementia, and for their Care Givers. It’s a place where they can socialise in a friendly, relaxed, safe environment and enjoy activities such as quizzes, chair aerobics, singing, art etc. Care givers may leave their loved ones in a safe environment or may choose to stay and enjoy the café with them from 2-4pm. Call 07428 755 254 or email katy@ fitnessfromtheheart.co.uk for more information. Location: The Greenwood Centre, 1A School Road, Hampton Hill, Hampton TW12 1QL.
Kingston Debating Society (Every Thursday evening in OctoberDecember and January-March) Free for first two visits 25
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS By Kenneth Grahame Adapted and directed by Ciaran McConville Tue 06 Dec - Tue 03 Jan When Mole abandons his spring cleaning in search of adventure, little does he expect to be scooped-up by Ratty, Badger and the irrepressible Toad. From summer-days messing about in boats, to an automobile addiction and an evil invasion from the Wild Woods, Mole finds himself hurtling towards the historic Battle for Toad Hall. A story of friendship and courage, The Wind in the Willows is one of the best loved books of all time, now brought to the stage in a glittering new production that promises festive madness for all ages and an enchanting ode to the wild banks of the River Thames. ROSE CHRISTMAS CONCERT Mon 12 Dec Begin your Christmas season with a magical night for all the family! The Rose Theatre’s annual, much-loved Christmas fundraiser is back and better than ever! Share the Christmas spirit and make merry with an evening of beautiful carols, festive jazz and dance performances. Featuring: Singing it Back Choir, Canbury Singers, Euphonix, Tiffin Children’s Chorus, Movement Warriors, Jenny Green and the Jingle Bell Jazz Trio. 26
JUNGLE BOOK Adapted for the stage by Ciaran McConville, songs by Eamonn O’Dwyer Fri 06 Jan - Wed 11 Jan Mowgli, a lost child, is saved from the jaws of a tiger by a family of law-abiding wolves. When the pack itself is threatened, Mowgli is fostered by Bagheera, a black panther, and an affable opportunist called Baloo. A story of courage, family and growing up, Kipling’s great adventure is brought to the stage by Rose Youth Theatre in an exciting new adaptation. THE BEAR Thu 12 Jan - Sun 15 Jan Ever wondered what it would be like to sit on a polar bear’s lap? Or ride on its back? Have you ever tried to give a bear a bath? Or clear up its poo?! Looking after a bear is exhausting stuff. One night when she’s fast asleep, an enormous snowy white bear climbs into Tilly’s bedroom. It has a big black tongue and a yawn as big as your head. But Tilly’s not scared. The Bear is a heart-warming and humorous wintry tale from the team that brought you the hugely successful Father Christmas. Pins and Needles are delighted to be bringing to life another of Raymond Briggs’ much-loved storybooks.
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
In The Cinema
(Scan the QR Codes to see the trailers)
Office Christmas Party
Supplied by: Leanna Carl Munn, as they get into some hilarious and unexpected situations. A company named Zenotek is attempting to close a huge deal for the business and keep many employees in the process, under the watch of CEO Carol Vanstone (Jennifer Aniston). Carol’s brother Clay (T.J. Miller) is the party-hard type that she has to keep focused and under control in the process. When Clay and his Chief Technical Officer decide to gather their co-workers for the most epic office Christmas party of the year, she has her doubts.
Office Christmas Party is a great holiday adventure for those who like a good comedy and a messy work party! What better time of year to enjoy a festive fiesta? Not only is this flick packed with Christmas joy and adult humour, but it also features Identity Thief/Horrible Bosses star Jason Bateman, alongside Deadpool/Silicon Valley favourite T.J. Miller and The Ride Along 2/Xmen: Apocalypse leading lady, Olivia
Will their efforts impress their potential clients and save their jobs, or will they find themselves in more trouble than before, once this party starts to get way out of hand?
Out on DVD
Suicide Squad
What a wild ride! This long-awaited and actionpacked film is definitely one for thrillseekers and comic book lovers. Although not for everyone, and better suited to those appreciating a bit of violence and dark humour, the explosive scenes and colourful characters are sure to make your eyes widen. Margot Robbie and Jared Leto create their own spin on the classic Batman villians, The Joker and Harley Quinn – becoming fan favourites, thanks to their bizarre relationship and psychotic behaviour. 27
The movie follows a US Intelligence officer, who gathers a group of extremely dangerous, incarcerated supervillians in order to send a highly trained, yet expendable team on a secret mission for the government. One of the leading villians (who is actually quite warm-hearted underneath) is Deadshot, played by Will Smith – an insanely good shot with any weapon, who became an assassinfor-rent to provide for his daughter. Other team members include Captain Boomerang, Killer Croc and Katana, who are coming along for the ride. They are dubbed Task Force X and united as a means of battling a powerful entity, in order to save the world. Complications arise and the Joker hatches his own plan in order to extract his beloved Harley Quinn in the process.
www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
PLACES TO GO
Getting Away for the Holidays
Supplied by: Leanna Carl - Omni Local
For some, the idea of waking up to snowy mountains or city lights instead of their usual front garden is the best gift they could give to themselves and their loved ones. Starry open skies and frosty temperatures can really get you in the festive mood. If you prefer to celebrate Christmas away from home and exploring the sights, make sure you consider exactly what it is you’re looking for, and what will make this Christmas even merrier! For example, which of the following appeals to you the most this time of year:
keen on humidity, consider places like Morocco or Jordan, where you can visit the Rose City of Petra or head to the well-known Dead Sea on your travels. An option for cooler weather could also include places like Turkey. There’ll be less guarantees when it comes to sitting in the sun, but with such a beautiful country you won’t want to keep sitting around!
Sun and Sand For blue skies, dry heat and indefinite sunshine this time of year, why not head to Egypt and explore the monumental sights? Soak up some sunshine and top up your tans if winter wear and fuzzy blankets aren’t your thing. Alternatively, it could be a memorable way to ring in the New Year.
Frosty Fun! If cold weather is no problem for you and you feel that Christmas calls for snow, head somewhere like Iceland, or Russia. They look all the more gorgeous during the Winter season, with landscapes that are out of this world. You could witness the incredible Northern Lights in the new year (just wrap up warm!) or if you’re brave enough, take a dip in the blue lagoon! Even China is beautiful this time of year, and is known to host the annual Harbin Ice Festival.
Tropical Temperatures If you’re looking for warmth with a bit of a difference, why not explore the tropical climes of Cambodia or Vietnam instead? Its unorthodox this time of year, but places like these, including India this time of year will definitely lead to some warm and fuzzy feelings whilst sightseeing. You’re guaranteed to get some fab photos to show your friends and family as well!
Whether you stay home or decide to travel the world, make sure you give yourself a well-earned break.
Mild Atmospheres If you’re driven by adventure but not overly 29
www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
We encourage everybody to support their local businesses as much as they can. With a wide range of services for every problem or query, there is always someone to give you a hand when you need it. Here at Omni Local, we do our best to track down the best local trades available in order to present their services to our all important readers. This includes all kinds of areas, whether you’re looking for auto services, window repairs, a new installation or a good bakery. Our job is to show you what is out there, and we guarantee there’s a name to meet all your needs. Whatever type of business you are seeking always think local! You’ll be amazed at what a fantastic services are right on your doorstep. We strive to show our appreciation for the support our advertisers give us every month.
LOCAL TRADES However, in order to continue supporting and letting our readers know who’s out there, we need your help! Some new business names may never have heard of Omni Local or similar publications, as they haven’t come across them before. We aim to change that, and you can help us. If you know of any LOCAL trades businesses that have yet to feature in Omni Local, and you feel they deserve a mention in our magazine, please do not hesitate to send us their company details and we will do our best to provide support and assist them in promoting their business. Contact John on 07898 870 870 or email sales.omnilocal@gmail.com
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
Why on earth would you want your own business? Here’s my story.
SYNERGY SECTION Supplied by: Lorraine Tarbitten - Synergy
I am employed in IT, I have my own holistic therapy business and I am a professional Network Marketer with Synergy Worldwide – but why? In my day job, I sell my time for money in a role that provides a good service, but I don’t enjoy it. I don’t like the commute, the hours, and the fact that I would need to work for 40 years to get a pension that would give me less to live on than it gives me now and now isn’t enough. My therapy business is much more personally rewarding. I help make a difference in people’s lives but again, I have to sell time and when my diary is full that’s all I can do. Like many therapists and other businesses, your asset is your time and when the diary is full, you are limited. Then there is my network marketing business and this is different – it is not perfect, but it is better. I have dabbled in network marketing in the past and you or someone you know probably has too – giving up after a few months and declaring that it doesn’t work. I was the same! I didn’t understand the power of residual income until I got some. Now I know that a network marketing business can give me the financial freedom that no other career can. Synergy also fits with my values and that is important. This business is available to anyone, no matter what your background, education or experience is, but that doesn’t mean it is for everyone. When you create a residual income so that all your bills are paid before you wake up in the morning, that is a special feeling. I know my future is total financial freedom and I will be leaving my day job soon because of it. If you want a career that gives you something positive to be involved in, life-changing products, residual income, working with great people, time, personal growth, perks, travel, low risk, low costs and
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fun; network marketing has all of that, but here is the bit you never get told: You must be willing to learn new skills and practice them over a long period of time to become a professional and be willing to deal with the delayed gratification, rather than instant rewards and the temporary loss of self-esteem because of un-educated people. If you were to become a master craftsman at anything it would take years and why would you expect any difference in becoming a professional Networking Marketer? Network Marketing isn’t perfect, but it’s a great way of achieving your dreams. To find out more about Synergy, email lorraine@thelp-partnership.com or call 07737 548 132.
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Take on a new venture and create your own ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƐĞĐƵƌŝƚLJ͘ ĞĐŽŵĞ ŽƵƌ ƉĂƌƚŶĞƌ ĂŶĚ ĐƌĞĂƚĞ LJŽƵƌ ŽǁŶ ďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ ŽĨ EĂƚƵƌĂů EƵƚƌŝƟŽŶ ĂŶĚ EĂƚƵƌĂů dŚĞƌĂƉŝĞƐ ƚŽ ƉƌŽŵŽƚĞ ǁĞůůͲďĞŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ůŝĨĞ ůŽŶŐĞǀŝƚLJ ĨŽƌ ĂŶ ĞdžƚƌĂ Žƌ ŵĂŝŶ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ͘ &Žƌ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ >ŽƌƌĂŝŶĞ Ăƚ͗
lorraine@the-lp-partnership.com 07737 548 132
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www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;¢ Edition 48
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
Taxation – Have you planned for this increased “Cash Flow”?
RESIDENTIAL ACCOUNTANT Supplied by: Goddards Accountants Kingston Ltd
As of 6th April 2018 HMRC will require “all” businesses to make quarterly Profit Returns (mini CT600 or Self-Assessment). HMRC have not yet decided how these returns will be made, or what data will be required. However they have made it clear that
Employed, Xero Start, Receipt Bank 1Tap are
all businesses must keep proper books
all available for £7.50 per month. As a result,
of Account. According to them, it surely
HMRC will levy penalties on businesses that
cannot be difficult to make quarterly returns
fail to make quarterly profit returns from
of profitability (and pay the relevant tax
June 2018 onwards.
quarterly).
In addition every business, especially Sole
As a result every business needs to ensure
Traders will need to consider the “Cash
that its Accounting records are processed
Flow” implications of this, as it will mean
monthly or quarterly to avoid the HMRC
payments to HMRC every quarter rather than
fines.
9 months after the year end for companies; or quarterly not twice yearly for Sole Traders
Fortunately there are now a number of low cost products to assist. QuickBooks Self
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www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
MOTORING SECTION
Cutting Costs in Motoring
Supplied by: Leanna Carl-Omni Local
In order to maintain your vehicle and get plenty of use out of it, its no secret that your bank balance might decrease a little more than your average cyclist. Fortunately, there are some things you can do in order to cut down on expenses a little. Read on for a few ideas on how to do so. Finding a Good Garage It always helps to do your homework when looking for a good place to have your vehicle serviced or repaired. Ask around with your friends and family, and check online or in your local newspaper in order to sum up and create a list of your top 10 or top 5 businesses. Once you have weighed out your best solution, you can pick your regular stop (provided you’re happy with the visit) and you may find certain places offer discounts for regulars/new customers. Servicing Bigger garages may cost you more money than independent dealers, and receiving services from an independent garage may also come with cover benefits – it might not hurt to haggle a little either. This is a common money-saver for most people. You are not always guaranteed a cheaper service, but you may find a more tailored service that suits the smaller jobs or the lengthy ones you’re looking for, so you don’t have to make the big pay out for any package deals thrown your way. Avoid Parking Tickets In emergencies, sometimes it’s hard to avoid a ticket, however around 33% of parking tickets are actually overturned, following an appeal. You can begin your own formal or informal appeal by contacting your local council and explaining why the ticket
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was uncalled for. This may not always be successful, but it might be worth a try, and you’ll want to wait to pay the ticket until you’re sure the appeal will not be accepted, as refunds are very rare. Invest in Long-term Parking Some drivers have actually saved hundreds of pounds through purchasing year-long off-peak parking tickets. Or alternatively, you could regularly borrow space, such as your friend’s driveway (provided they don’t require the space for a vehicle and you ask them first). This will definitely save you some money in the long run. There are even sites online that can suggest cheap parking spots for rent when you need them. Breakdown Cover It is important for you to insure your car in case of a breakdown, however you may not realise that a packaged bank account could save you money on this. Just avoid taking a packaged account on one single benefit, as it makes a lot more sense to include other benefits such as travel insurance as well.
To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames • December 2016
Building a New Deck Why not give your patio a little extra oomph and set yourself up with some new quality, self-built decking? Not only will it tie your patio together, but it may also be a great way to host parties and BBQ’s when the weather picks up again. Just be sure that the rain’s staying away before you begin, as it can really set you back. A full, standard-sized deck may take around 40 decking boards to build, as well as around 800 screws or more. It should save you money to build it yourself once you know how. Hopefully our step-by-step method will help you on your way.
DIY Supplied by: Leanna Carl - Omni Local
your house. Mark with a pencil to ensure they are equal. 6. Lay the decking boards about 5mm apart and place a screw at each joist, then mitre and sand down the ends of the planks until smooth and even.
What You Will Need: gloves - pencil - tape measure - spirit level mitre saw screwdrivers - jigsaw - hammer - sandpaper – drill workbench - wood preserver - decking boards - concrete slabs stakes – decking screws - nails - wood for the framework. Method: 1. Firstly, map out the area you want to use for the new deck and try to compress any loose soil, removing debris along the way.
7. Fit a plank onto the sides of the frame, lining up with the outer panels. If you need to you can create another framework for these planks. 8. Fix the frame around your deck, hammering stakes into the corners once again and when you have built a step, place two screws at each joist. Screw on two more pantels front-facing. If you are unsure about doing-it-yourself, refer to one of our local tradesmen and see if they can help.
2. Using the concrete slabs, create your wooden frame above damp ground using a spirit level. Build a simple box frame to start off. 3. Lay the joists about 40cm apart and nail into place. 4. Fashion or gather your pointed stakes and hammer onto the inside corners of the frame. To avoid the frame moving around, you can screw them in. 5. Use a mitre saw to cut the planks, allowing the decking to run parallel with
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www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;¢ Edition 48
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames â&#x20AC;¢ December 2016
WORD SEARCH Christmas Season Find the words hidden in the grid of letters.
G A I Y G T L F A M I L Y K
I A G F R U I T C A K E P Q
F X N E K M H O L L Y O Q F
T B E L F K V K Z Z I E Q E
S N H J N A M W O N S O B S
G N I G N I S E S O K T S K
S P O N I T Y E U R Z E B A
U N M W H E T F X N N L H T
A A O G F T L E P A S T T E
S A I I I L A S C M I S A S
F L C A T Z A Y E E M I E F
K E O A G A D K G N A M R B
C S G R N N R Z E T N I W S
T L S G A D N O F S E H G B
R L L C N C L A C N Z N L Y
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H B C P E L G S S S D Q R L
BELLS CANDLES CANDY CANES CAROLS DECORATIONS EGGNOG FAMILY FRIENDS FRUITCAKE GIFTS HOLLY LIGHTS MISTLETOE ORNAMENTS POINSETTIA SINGING SKATES SLEIGH SNOWFLAKES SNOWMAN SONGS TREE WREATH
Solutions on our website - www.omnilocal.co.uk
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www.omnilocal.co.uk • Edition 48
COMPETITION REVIEW
The Wimbledon Story Pot The Wimbledon Story Pot is locally run by Caroline Ewans, an independent children’s bookseller. Her hand-picked variety of books range from factual to fictional, with wonderful illustrations and inspirational stories, all bursting with creativity and imagination. Unlike many of the books on sale in the high street, these stories are both educational and multicultural, loved by families and schools throughout the area. Caroline has a full “Educators” range, to help your little ones quench their thirst for knowledge and realise their passion for book reading. Caroline can be found selling beautiful children’s books at local fairs, special events, schools and even via her website to those in and around South West London. If you’d like to order Story Pot books for your friends or family, visit www.thestorypot.co.uk/?books eller=carolineewans. Enter our competition below for your chance to win a £40 discount off your next purchase! Why not stock up on Caroline’s books for Christmas gifts, and help to instil some knowledge in your loved ones,
or open them up to the adventures of fiction! Get in touch with Caroline directly to avoid high postage charges or even get free books for your children. CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNER, ANGELA SEABORNE! WE HOPE YOU ENJOYED YOUR ULTIMATE SHAKES AT THE ULTIMATE CAFÉ KINGSTON!
Competition Time This month’s prize
£40.00 Voucher from The Story Pot!
To win this month’s prize just answer our simple question below and post it on the Omni Local Facebook Page.
Q: What is the name of the new Story Pot Range? Hint! Answer can be found on the collections page of the website
www.thestorypot.co.uk 07890 997 018
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
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To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames â&#x20AC;¢ December 2016
JobSpot An exciting opportunity to work as an accounts assistant for a local company. Must be educated to degree level or equivalent and have previous administration experience. £21,000 per annum Email: noelle.bretagne@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Call: 020 8546 8686
Our client is looking for a purchase ledger/ accounts assistant to be responsible for all aspects of the billing process. Great company with excellent benefits based in Esher! Email: noelle.bretagne@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Call: 020 8546 8686
Calling all temps full and part time- all levels required for immediate bookings in the local area. Competitive rates! Email: sophie.oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sullivan@absolutelyrecruitment. co.uk Call: 020 8546 8686
Fantastic opportunities for graduate calibre or equivalent candidates who are looking to develop a career within administration. We have many varied local positions available. Full training provided. Email: ashleigh.field@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Call: 020 8546 8686
Fantastic opportunity to join a progressive forward thinking organisation and develop key business relationships and enhance sales potential for the business. Must be an established sales/account manager. £37,000 per annum. Email: ashleigh.field@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Call: 020 8546 8686
Our client, a professional company with a friendly workforce, requires a receptionist/ administrator to ensure that the front of house function provides a professional, courteous, polite and approachable greeting service. Email: ashleigh.field@absolutelyrecruitment.co.uk Call: 020 8546 8686
Send us your job listing for free. Just call us: 0207 183 0404
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www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;¢ Edition 48
Suppliers of Quality Fencing Materials
DISCOUNT AVAILABLE WHEN YOU MENTION THIS ADVERT We Supply Featheredge, Timber Posts Concrete Morticed Posts Concrete Gravel Boards Timber Palisade Sleepers
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www.tolworthfencingcompany.com
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To advertise in Omni Local call Felicity on 07900 312634
www.omnilocal.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ Edition 48
6DOHV /HWWLQJV JSHHV FR XN
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.
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OmniLocal - Kingston Upon Thames â&#x20AC;˘ December 2016
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 44