EN Magazine March 2008

EN

Things to do - Places to go - People to see

Magazine Getting into the right school!

March 2008 Your Free Local Magazine Enfield Property - is it a good investment?

Going Green Myth or Fact Local News and What’s On in your area

Your Spring Garden

NEW SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

for full season listings visit www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

MILLFIELD TICKET OFFICE 020 8807 6680 BOOK ONLINE @ www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

music JAN 19 @ 8pm

drama JAN 9-12 @ 7.45pm

PAUL JONES, DAVE KELLY, TOM McGUINNESS ROB TOWNSEND & GARY FLETCHER

Night is Through

THE BLUES BAND Before the JAN 30 @ 8pm

MEMORIES ARE MADE OF HITS FEB 1 @ 8pm

ACOUSTIC STRAWBS

FEB 2 @ 8pm THE LONDON COMMUNITY GOSPEL CHOIR

FEB 8 & 9 @ 8pm

JOE BROWN

FEB 21 @ 7.30pm

LOS PACAMINOS with PAUL YOUNG FEB 22 & 23 @ 8pm

THE COUNTERFEIT STONES FEB 28 @ 8pm

THIS IS SOUL

Eddie Floyd MAR 2 @ 7.30pm

ANTONY COSTA

FEB 16 @ 8pm

OPENING THE CAN

FEB 27 @ 7.30pm

The Picture of Dorian Gray FEB 29 @ 8pm

Tilting the Mirror

comedy FEB 3 @ 7.30pm MARK WATSON

FEB 7 @ 8pm

STEPHEN K AMOS

FEB 20 @ 8pm

FELIX DEXTER

MAR 1 @ 8pm

FRANCESCA MARTINEZ MAR 7 @ 8pm

MARCH 13 @ 7.30pm STEWART The Complete Works of LEE Shakespeare (Abridged) APRIL 1 @ 7.30pm FEB 10 @ 1 & 3.30pm Hull Truck Theatre Co

kids shows

TWO

APRIL 10 @ 8pm

FOLLOW ME APRIL 30 @ 7.30pm

MILE END

MAY 28 @ 7.30pm

STAN LAUREL

Please stand up

Harry & his bucket full of Dinosaurs

FEB 17 & MAY 4 @ 3pm

The Comedy Club for Kids

MAR 12 @ 1.30pm Shakespeare 4 Kidz

THE TEMPEST MARCH 21 & 22

BARNEY ‘Lets Go Tour’

MILLFIELd ARts CENtRE, sILvER stREEt, EdMoNtoN, LoNdoN N18 1PJ

Page 5 - 11 Local News and Events Page 12 EN Interview Councillor Rye Page 13 - 14 Getting into the right School

EN Magazine Contents

page 13

Page 15 EN Magazine Competition Page 16 - 17 Green Myth’s

page 16

Page 19 - 25 The Property Market in Enfield Page 26 - 27 Your Spring Garden

page 20

Page 28 - 31 What’s On page 26

EN

Hello and welcome to the March issue of EN Magazine Magazine

Contacts Tel.: 020 8367 3917 Editorial editorial@ enmagazine.co.uk Advertising sales@ enmagazine.co.uk Production production@ enmagazine.co.uk Distribution dist@ enmagazine.co.uk EN Magazine is Published by

H A

ello everyone and welcome to the March issue of EN Magazine.

t last Spring appears to be on its way and for those keen gardeners amongst our readers we have an excellent gardening feature this month written

by Bryan Hewitt, Senior Gardener at Myddelton House Gardens.

A

lso, for those of you with young children now is the time that you will shortly be hearing if your child has got into the school of your choice - we have an in-depth article which investigates what can be done if your child did not get into the school of your choice.

A

gain, Spring is a time that many people think of moving home and we have a detailed article on the Enfield property market plus tips of what to do to increase the chances of selling your property quickly.

P

lus all the usual local news and what’s on information you have come to expect from EN Magazine.

PO Box 1099 Enfield EN1 9JF Tel. 020 8367 3917

Douglas Lee Publisher EN Magazine

email dal@dal-media. co.uk Printed by Woodford Litho Ltd. Distributed by Letterbox Distribution

Whilst every effort is made to make sure of the accuracy of material published, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or, damage caused by omissions or errors in the printing of this publication No part of this publication may be reproduced in any medium without written permission of the publisher

Local News and Events

THREE STARS

OVER 60

AND RISING

E

nfield Council has received a glowing report for its performance from a government watchdog this week.

The Audit Commission awarded the authority three stars for its Corporate Performance Assessment (CPA) adding it was ‘improving well’.

Enfield Council leader, Mike Rye said: “Five years ago the Council was seen as a poor authority but thanks to the hard work of officers and a focus on tackling residents’ priorities, we have turned things around. But we need to kick on from here and improve even further.

“The acid test is what our residents want and judging by the latest residents’ survey it appears we are on the right track. But we will never relax in striving to provide the best value for money services for council taxpayers and residents.”

The Audit Commission report said: “Enfield Council is improving well. Enfield continues to deliver improvements in priority areas such as environmental services and community safety.

Four-fifths of performance indicators improved during the last year, one of the highest figures in London. There is good progress in children’s and young people’s services, where Enfield has worked well with

partners, although educational achievement at the key stages needs to improve further. The housing benefits service has retained its excellent rating.

Housing and culture services have improved, and although the overall rating for adult social care has declined, aspects of service provision remain strong. ……The prospects for continued improvement are good.”

In particular, the Housing score increased dramatically from 2 stars to a maximum 4 stars. Culture (including leisure and libraries) increased from 2 to 3, Benefits retained their score of 4, adult social care went from 3 to 2 while environment and children and young people kept their 3 stars.

The Council’s score for value for money also increased from 2 to 3 and it retained its score of 3 out of 4 for its overall use of resources.

Councillor Ann Zinkin, cabinet member for corporate services and communications said: “Enfield has had an excellent record in driving improvement in our services and this is now being reflected in resident satisfaction. We want to be among the best for service delivery, satisfaction and value for money so we will continue to focus ourgordon energies thomas.indd on further improvements in key services.”

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Local News and Events

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Powerful Moving and Relevant The Anne Frank (+ you) Exhibition

E

nfield Council is experience including: presenting this powerful The Anne Frank photo and moving exhibition from album the Anne Frank Trust which Replica artefacts from uses modern multi – media Anne’s life presentations to tell the tragic The chilling genocide tunnel story of Anne Frank and the with powerful film footage horrors of Nazi - occupied An almost life-sized replica Europe. of Anne’s room in the ‘Secret It asks tough questions Annexe’ where Anne and her relevant for all young people family hid for two years today.

An interactive virtual tour Some 60 years after of the ‘Secret Annexe’ her death Anne Frank is Anne’s writing set against remembered all over the world powerful graphic imagery of as the spirited 13 year old who the social issues of today. Many hid with her family from the young people will recognise Nazis. that their dreams, hopes and Her story is told in her fears are not that different to diary, which she kept during those of Anne Frank. their period in hiding in Amsterdam. At the heart of this exhibition are Anne Frank’s words, wisdom and values.

As well as representing the Holocaust and more Anne Frank at her desk recent genocides, Anne Frank (+ you) For all pupils this exhibition confronts contemporary issues provides a springboard for including racism in football, discussion linked to history and bullying and the plight of child citizenship teaching. soldiers.

For all visitors this Linked to Anne’s life and exhibition offers an unrivalled writing, the exhibition presents insight into the mind of a child five themes: who showed courage and the Racial hatred ability to hold on to what is Conflict and peace worthwhile – even in the most Inclusion and exclusion terrifying of times.

Democracy and dictatorship In its boldness this Responsibility and exhibition cannot fail to make indifference us think and consider what 29/1/08 16:57:18 The exhibition is lessons can be learned for recommended for age groups today.

10 years and up. Created by Cllr Glynis Vince, cabinet an award winning team, it member for education, is a multi media fact-finding children’s services and youth,

Local News and Events

Making life easier for the over 65s E

nfield residents aged 65 and over can now get some extra support when they register with the council’s ‘Prevention Intervention’ team for a general health and wellbeing assessment.

From 18th February to 31st March the team will be at venues across Enfield where residents can register for their assessments. By registering with the ‘Prevention Intervention’ team they will be contacted regularly about their well-being, and offered support and information on an ongoing basis.

Occupational Therapy assistants will be conducting the assessments and offering

advice to residents on improving their wellbeing, as well as handing out free aids and gadgets to those whose assessments show they need it.

Long-handled reachers, sponges and brushes with dustpans are just a few of the aids to help prevent falls and keep people safer in their

local residents between 10am and 4pm at the following venues: Mondays: Enfield Civic Centre (except Easter Monday) Tuesdays: Oakwood Library Wednesdays: Edmonton Green Library Thursdays: Morrisons Store on the A10 (except 20th March) Fridays: Palmers Green Citizens’ Advice Bureau (except Good Friday) For more information call 020 8379 2687

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LIVE TRIBUTES - MARCH 2008

said, “Enfield Council is proud to present this important and moving exhibition. It will always be relevant and we can all learn from it.”

Council Leader, Mike Rye, added, “I hope that many people and schools visit this exhibition and take away something from it. It is powerful, moving and tragic – and has something to say to everybody.”

Admission is FREE The exhibition is open to the public from Tuesday 26th February – Saturday 15th March 10 am – 8 pm, Monday Thursday 10am – 3pm, Friday Saturday School groups Monday – Friday 9.30am – 4.30pm Booking for school visits is essential

homes.

Cllr Alan Barker, cabinet member for adult social care, said, “We recognise that many more people are reaching their sixties now and we want them to be able to enjoy their lives as independently as possible.

“Registering with our ‘Prevention Intervention’ team is a good way to get support when it is needed, but also to maintain an independent life style.”

The team will be meeting

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Paul Metcalfe is Rod Stewart

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Paul Ritchie is Elvis in Las Vegas

FRIDAY NIGHTS 70’s & 80’s Disco Fever – Boogie Nights

Thursday 27th The Frank & Dino Double Act Show

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Local News and Events

THE SIX BELLS Roger & Mae welcome you to enjoy the atmosphere in your local pub.

St. Patrick’s Weekend

Saturday Night - 15th March Live Irish Band Come and Enjoy Our Irish Stew and Soda Bread

Monday 17th March

Celebrations All Day Come along and join the

CRAIC

Special Promotions on Guniness and Jameson 187 Chase Side Enfield EN2 0PT

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The Pilot, A Bar Manager and The Ghost ?

T

his sounds like it could be the start of a joke but in fact this is the team behind the rejuvenation of The Six Bells Public House on Chaseside.

In November 2007 Roger Osborn took over the lease of The Six Bells and along with Mae Lothian have set about restoring this venue into a traditional pub with all the modern extras that their customers expect.

Roger, a former commercial pilot, worked for 8 years on executive jets flying throughout Europe. “The challenges of running a pub are very different but I enjoy them more than hanging

around airports, especially the interaction with customers” he said.

Mae previously worked as a bar manager in Enfield helping to launch Taps back in 2004 before moving on to run a wine bar in Ramsgate. “ When Roger approached me to come and manage The Six Bells I jumped at the opportunity. I had really enjoyed working in Enfield in previous years and am looking forward to reacquainting myself with my old regulars who have not yet found me at The Six Bells” said Mae. She added “We are creating a very traditional pub environment that is supported by a regular client

Local Post Offices face closure As this issue of EN Magazine goes to press The Post Office has announced that it is planning to close 5 Post Offices in the Enfield area which are amongst the 169 proposed closures throughout London, They are: Chase Side, 122A Chase Side, Enfield, EN2 0QN Freezywater, 775 Hertford Road, Enfield, EN3 6SE Green Street, 200 Green Street, Enfield, EN3 7NB Hadley Wood, 26 Crescent West, Barnet, EN4 0EJ Palmers Green, 6 Clock House Parade, Palmers Green, London, N13 6BG In December 2006 the Government started a consultation process on

proposed measures to modernise and reshape the Post Office network. It was this consultation that has led to the Post Office’s plans for the closure of up 2,500 of the current 14,300 branches throughout the U.K. To have your say in the public consultation on the closure of Post Offices’s send your views by April 2nd to:Anita Turner, Network Development Manager C/o National Consultation Team, FREEPOST CONSULTATION TEAM By email to: consultation@ postoffice.co.uk or call Customer Helpline: 08457 22 33 44

Local News and Events base plus the many new faces that are coming along to one of the events and turning into regulars.”

Events at The Six Bells include major sports that can be viewed on big screens as well as special evenings

including poker nights, quiz nights and coming soon, live music nights. “One of the things that many of our customers have commented on and we regard as a traditional value and as way of saying thank you is serving free bar snacks

at half times during sports events. One event that I am really looking forward to is our St Patrick’s Weekend Celebrations. We have a live Irish band on the Saturday night (15th March) and will be giving all our customers the opportunity to sample Irish Stew and soda bread. As well as the Saturday night we have a full day of fun planned for Monday 17th and invite people to join us to enjoy the Craic with special promotions

on Guinness and Jameson Whiskey all weekend.”

Roger and Mae are planning to further improve the atmosphere with a slick new look to the pub, which they hope that all customers old and new will appreciate, as well as a overhaul of the garden area so they can introduce barbeques and family fun days throughout the summer.

Well what about the ghost?

Mae told us “Although we have not yet met or seen him a few of our customers have told us that the bar is haunted by an ex-landlord, who was previously a policeman before taking over the pub, who accidentally fell to his death down the stairs. Although I am not sure they are not just referring to the spirits behind the bar, but nevertheless he is very welcome to join us for a drink any time…”

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Local News and Events

Children feel Safer with Community Help Points

A

unique scheme involving over 40 Enfield locations including businesses, police stations, shops and libraries aims to help children and young people who

may have a momentary fear while travelling in and around Enfield.

Designated as Community Help Points (CHPs) these locations provide safe havens for young people who feel threatened or need help in any way.

If young people feel unsafe or worried while travelling about they can take refuge at local shops and businesses

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displaying the distinctive CHPs sign in their windows.

Caterina Vetrano who runs La Dolce Piazza at Edmonton Green, said, “We want to do all we can to help anyone who may feel threatened, particularly young people. We have had excellent training and feel confident that we can provide the security that will help a young person overcome a fear.”

Any young person who is a victim of crime or bullying or who may be lost or just simply feel vulnerable can seek help, guidance or support where they see the CHPs sign.

This may just be a brief stay while an issue passes or it may be to use a phone to obtain help from parents or carers or it may be to summon further help from the police when they have been victims of crime.

Wherever there is a CHPs sign there are trained people able to calm a frightened young person, make a phone call or summon other help.

Staff working at businesses in the CHPs scheme, have received full training, and checks have also been made with the Criminal Records Bureau to ensure that they are responsible people who can be trusted.

All Enfield pupils will be given details of premises that are in the scheme and will be able to identify the nearest help points on the routes of their most common journeys - whether to school, leisure centres or other activities.

Safer schools officers will ensure that pupils are aware of this scheme and how and when to use it, while letters are being sent to parents and carers.

Get with the beat – down your street Professional MC experts, Point Blank, will be pumping out the rhythm in style at Enfield Highway Library in a series of four great sessions designed to plug in to all that’s cool with their latest MCing skills.

Youngsters can learn all about rhyming, freestyling, battling, performing, composing

and all the lyrical skills to make it in the music business.

There’s a chance to record, perform and hear the latest sounds.

Cllr Paul McCannah, cabinet member for Leisure, Culture and Olympics, said, ”Libraries are places with innovative ideas for everyone to enjoy. These free sessions with MC professionals aim to encourage musical and lyrical talent – and I know they will be great fun.”

The message is clear, MCing is here, Get with the beat it’s down your street.

Every Thursday from 28th February – 20th March from 7pm – 9pm

Local News and Events Cllr Glynis Vince, cabinet member for Education, Children’s Services and Leisure, said, “Keeping young people safe and helping the most vulnerable is an important way to build community relations and strengthen understanding between adults and young people.

“I am extremely pleased that we have been able to get this scheme started and my thanks go to all the local businesses and organisations that have shown their willingness to support it.”

Peter Lewis, director of education, children’s services and leisure, added, “CHPs can be used to help schools, parents and young people plan safe journeys to and from school and will also reassure parents who may be worried about young people travelling through Enfield alone.

“We look forward to schools playing a full part in supporting CHPs by raising awareness and encouraging appropriate use of the scheme.”

Borough Commander Adrian Hanstock added, “For all young people this is good news.

There is no need for them to feel threatened now that this network of locations has been established. I am delighted that so many businesses and organisations have agreed to take part.”

Enfield Local Safeguarding Children Board, Joint Service for Children with Disabilities, Enfield Children and Young Persons Services, Children’s Fund and Youth & Partnership Unit (including Police Safer Schools Team) working with local businesses have devised this scheme.

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Enfield Footcare Business wins Business of the Year Award Enterprise Enfield have chosen Supplefeet in Enfield Town as winners of “Business of the Year” for 2007.

Emma Supple, who created Supplefeet said “we are thrilled to have received this award. All who run their own business will recognise that it is very easy to have an idea; it is the putting it into real life that takes a great deal of effort. For the judges to recognise us for

our work so far and future plans is very pleasing.”

At Supplefeet they will look after your feet, whatever they need. Not only will they attend to your medical needs, but they will also make your feet look and feel great.

They provide expert care for all aspects of the foot; from general chiropody treatments to corrective foot surgery.

Enterprise Enfield’s judges said “The owners are very motivated and focused and want to make the service available and affordable to everyone.”

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EN Interview

EN Magazine meets the Leader of Enfield Council - Councillor Michael Rye With the recent success of Enfield Council being given a 3 star rating by the Goverment - EN Magazine decided to meet up with the man currenlty holding the reins at the Council, Michael Rye. Mr Rye can claim to be a born and bred Enfieldian having been born in Edmonton. He went to school at Bishops Stopford’s in Enfield before studying at the University of Wales and Westminster College, Oxford.

Mr Rye is currently Deputy Head Teacher at Sheredes School in Hertfordshire since being appointed in 2004.

How did you start your career as a councillor?

I have been interested and involved in politics for a long time, from my days as a student at University of Wales and my post grad years at Oxford where I was Chairman of the Conservative Societies.

When I returned to Enfield, I joined the local Conservative Party and got involved before being elected to the Council in 1994.

As an Enfield person born and bred I chose to work in local politics rather than Westminster, as I wanted to be able to make Enfield an even better place to live and work.

What first attracted you to Politics?

I think the first time I really wanted to get involved was during the 70’s. It was the time of the “winter of discontent” and I felt that there must be a better way to run things and I wanted to be part of the organisation that could change things for the better.

What do you feel are the best and worst parts of your job?

I think the best part for me has been

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since becoming Leader of the Council is the improvement in services which has seen the Councils government rating increase to 3 star and I hope very much to see it increase to 4 star at the next assessment. The more personal side is the legacy that I can leave behind for the people of Enfield – improvements to local services, increased efficiencies in running the Council and seeing the stage two development of Enfield Town completed, and I hope to see stage three put into practice.

The worst part of the job is dealing with people who no matter what I or the council do just wish to criticize.

What advice would you give to some one wanting a career in local politics?

I would recommend that you join the local party that you feel best represents your views and opinions. As well as the politics you will also get to meet other like-minded people and join in lots of social activities.

What do you feel are the major challenges facing Enfield?

I feel the major challenges facing Enfield at the moment are dealing with the deprivation in the East of the borough which we are addressing with the building of new affordable housing, new primary schools and a new academy in the area.

I am also hoping that we will win our Heritage Lottery bid to help develop and protect Forty Hall. We also have the challenge that is been passed to us by central government of managing the finances of the local authority. That is meeting the increased needs of the local community with reduced funding.

With the efficiencies that we are introducing we hope people will not see a change to the services that we offer.

What is your favourite part or place in Enfield?

I like open country space so the areas of Forty Hall and Bulls Cross are particular favourites of mine.

What is your favourite Enfield Restaurant?

My favourite restaurant is Beautiful South on Windmill Hill. The food is always wonderfully presented and tastes fantastic and the service is accommodating and friendly.

Do you have a favourite Pub? My favourite pub would have to be The Fallow Buck – the atmosphere is great, it’s a warm welcoming and cosy pub especially with the fire in the winter.

Do you have a favourite shop in Enfield?

It has to be Jarvis Elson menswear in Southgate I have been getting my suits there for years and have always been extremely happy with the quality, value and service.

What is your favourite spare time activity in Enfield?

Enfield has lots of open spaces and I like nothing more than walking around these and enjoying the countryside.

If you could do one thing for the people of Enfield what would it be?

I would like to see through the phase 3 development of Enfield Town. Moving Enfield Town Station back down the track allowing the creation of a transport terminal and new shopping facilities I think will really enhance the Town environment.

Education

Getting Your Child Into The Right School?

F

or most couples, finding out that a baby is on the way is one of the most delightful moments in a lifetime.

Henceforth the planning begins… the back bedroom is turned into a wonderful nursery, the gift list is set up for the baby shower, the contents of the hospital bag is checked and checked and checked again…

Oh yes and not to mention putting the new bundle of joy’s name down at the best schools in the area!!!!

Ok so maybe the latter is a bit over the top however as the application criteria has tightened, some parents are finding themselves going as far as crossing counties to give their children a better chance at getting into their first choice of schools.

“My wife and I knew before we moved into the area.” says Tony Windle, who lives in the EN1 area. “My wife spent ages going through Ofsted reports and league tables.

I think she even went to visit a few... and that was year or so before our son had to put his name down.”

The fact is that whether a parent decides on a community school or a voluntary aided one, the criteria is pretty strict, and geographical proximity is a major factor.

However as we approach March the criteria that separates who gets into where for September 2008 is already well underway, and parents all over the borough are waiting with anticipation on the arrival of that Enfield Council letter which will tell them which school their child has been admitted to.

“The Enfield Schools Admission Service (ESAS) is responsible for coordinating the allocation of reception school places in Enfield to make sure that as many children as possible get places at schools of their parents’ preference,” states the Admissions

for Enfield website. “If it is not possible to offer a place at a preferred school, the child’s name is included on the reserve list of any community schools applied for and parents are informed of schools with vacancies.”

The likelihood of your child not getting into one of the three schools of your choice is very slim, however on occasion it does happen.

“We applied to voluntary aided schools, and my daughter didn’t get into any at first,” says Lana Maison who lives in EN3, “we put down two Catholic and one Christian.” The schools Mrs Maison applied to require a priest’s reference which she didn’t include with her application form. “I didn’t think it was compulsory to tell you the truth. I filled in everything else, but in hindsight I should have got a reference from our priest.”

Feeling very disappointed and distraught at the decision, Lana Maison contacted Enfield Schools Admissions

Service straight away to find out what to do and, although she was advised to appeal, she felt she had lost the cause before it had even begun.

“I just felt very alienated as the council appeared quite standoffish and offered no advice.” recalls Mrs Maison, “I wanted to know what schools had places left and they just said that it was the school’s responsibility.”

Because Lana had not included any community schools on her application form, she had to contact the schools directly to get the full details of their appeal procedures. She also had to contact the Clerk to the Governors at the schools and ask them to send her their appeal forms.

After four long months of being in limbo as the first appeal was rejected, Lana Maison finally got the news that she had been longing for. “I was over the moon and totally relieved. We were just so happy; I couldn’t believe she had actually got in.”

So all’s well that ends well for little Alexandra Maison who is thoroughly enjoying her first year at school. Going through the appeal process can be very daunting and stressful and it seems to be a common feeling amongst those who have had to contact Enfield Schools Admission Service that their attitude is quite unsympathetic. However, a spokesperson for Enfield Schools Admission Service said,

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Education “It is not always possible to provide every parent with their exact requirements and we explain very clearly why this is the case… we are realistic in our explanations.”

But any parent facing the same or similar situation that Lana Maison faced last year must by no means be put off by the appeal process which can appear lengthy. It is just a procedure, and if your child stands any chance it is a road you must take.

For those of you who do not get accepted into community schools, the Enfield Schools Admission Service will be able to inform you of schools with vacancies and your child’s name can remain on reserve lists for your preferred schools even if you accept a place at another school.

However the circumstances surrounding the appeal can differ, although most cases are similar to Lana Maison’s circumstances, sometimes a situation can arise where a parent feels the need to change schools mid way through term time.

“My daughter didn’t like the school.

She was being bullied and I didn’t feel that the matter was being dealt with,” says mum of three Helen Brown. “I tried to address the matter on a number of occasions, but it just escalated, and I ended up doubting the capabilities of the staff in dealing with the problem.”

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Fearing for the safety of her four year old daughter, Mrs Brown withdrew her daughter from school in the middle of the first term as she didn’t want her to go there anymore.

Due to a lack of available places at the schools Mrs Brown has now applied to, her daughter Ruby Brown has returned to pre-school. “It’s not ideal, but what else can we do?” said Mrs Brown.

The law states that once a child turns five it becomes a parents’ statutory right to

place them in full time education which didn’t give the distressed mother very long, as Ruby’s birthday is in March. The fact is it is even more difficult for a parent when applying outside of the admissions time. There is a lot of to-oing and fro-ing from one institution or organisation to

the other and it can seem quite alienating.

However, parents must not be discouraged or feel afraid of the appeals process as it is primarily in place to help you.

All in all the majority of parents who apply within the time limit, with all relevant and supporting documents do get into one of their schools of preference in the Borough of Enfield and the percentage is steadily rising.

So how are we fairing as a Borough nationally? Well, we are not in the Top 100 Boroughs in England if the BBC News Educational League Tables are anything to go by, but according to Her Majesty’s Inspectors, we are not actually doing too badly!

“Since the last academic year, the Council has continued to drive up standards through effective steps being taken to improve provision and accelerate children and young people’s rates of progress.”

(For the purpose of this article, all names have been changed)

EN Competition

EN Magazine March Competition

W

ith the indepth look at the property market in this months issue of EN Magazine we are pleased to link up with Cindy Brown Home Staging to offer one lucky reader the opportunity to have a free consultation on your home.

The prize is open to everyone whether you are looking for tips to help sell your home or just want some ideas and advice on colour schemes and decoration.

The consultation takes 2-3 hours depending on the property and gives advice on colour / style / storage / window dressing / accessorising and is followed up by a written report, detailing all that has been discussed as well as

including samples of any paints, fabrics and so on that have been recommended.

So if you would like the chance to have someone give your home a professional overview just tell EN Magazine what the average price of a two bed home in Enfield is?

Please send your entries with your name address and a day time contact number to EN Magazine PO Box 1099 Enfield EN2 9JF or email competitions@enmagazine. co.uk All entries must be received

by Friday 21st of March.

Good Luck

“Thank you very much for the beautiful and very tasty St Valentine cupcakes. My husband was surprised to receive such an unusual present. He was happy to share them not only with myself but also our children, making it a truly loving day for us all!, actually they lasted three days. I will have to keep Rebecca’s Cakes web address for future presents.

I would like to add that reading EN magazine is not only informative and entertaining but also keeps me up-to-date with

!"# $

!

"

call 020 8364 4332

Full terms and conditions are available from EN Magazine. The Publishers’s decision is final

Congratulations C

ongratulations go to the winners of the Valentines Competition who were; Mrs K Bennet and Mr R Brooks who both won the cup cakes from Rebecca’s Cakes,

local activities here in Enfield. it also gives us lots of ideas for places, to visit further afield, too.�

“The cakes were absolutely brilliant. My partner was totally surprised on the 14th and she really enjoyed munching her way through them. Luckily I was allowed to have a couple myself!� and Ms J Hinckley who won the bouquet of flowers from Sekret Garden “I was so pleased to win the valentines flowers competition the flowers delivered by Sekret Garden were absolutely beautiful!

I gave them to my boyfriend who was amazed and said that he had never been given flowers before! thanks again�

VIVA THE SILVER JEWELLERS

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Why not visit our new specalist wedding lounge open MON - SAT 10am - 6pm available Evenings and Sundays by appointment 729c Green Lanes Winchmore Hill London N21 3RX tel 020 8360 5940

15

Special Report

GREEN MYTH’S - INVESTIGATED

BY EN MAGAZINE I

t’s doomsday. That’s what we keep hearing. We have gone too far and the planet is beyond repair. But is it? So much is talked about, written about and debated about how to live a green life now that we are all suffering from at least a little green fatigue.

When was the last time you heard one of these ? All our recycling ends up in China. Travelling by train is always better than going by car. Traditional nappies are far better than disposables.

These supposed truths are bandied about as either excuses for inaction, or guilt-assuaging badges which make us feel we are doing our bit. But they are all wrong. In fact, recycling is extremely worthwhile, a family of four will produce less carbon emissions travelling by car than diesel train, and traditional nappies are just as bad as disposables thanks to all the washing they require.

Time for some real truths. Did you know that it takes more energy to produce a paper bag than a plastic one? Or that a kilo of beef from your local farm is 50 times worse for the environment than a can of beans flown in from Canada? How

16

about that installing those newly-trendy solar panels will cost around 10 times more than loft insulation and actually be less effective?

Myths are dangerous because they allow unscrupulous businesses to dupe us into buying products we don’t need and which actually have no green value at all.

They also leave us comforted by dodgy half truths which are bad for us and the planet, having us running around trying to find an eco car or organic mung beans, rather than tackling the real issues. In the end it is no surprise that we simply give up, shrug our shoulders, and say “well, I just won’t bother”.

The problem with myths is that they are thrown at us from all angles. From politicians, from the media, even from our mates in the pub. So how can we possibly separate fact from fiction? Well, EN magazine has done all the research for you, so follow our simple guide and you’ll know you’re doing the right things.

Get loft insulation Enfield has one of the highest percentages of uninsulated homes in

London, according to the Energy Saving Trust. Loft insulation costs about £500 for a three bed semi-detached house but there is a system of grants and special offers currently available which could bring this down to £150. Since loft insulation has been shown to reduce energy bills by up to £90 a year, you could recoup the cost within two years, having a positive effect on your bank balance as well as the planet.

Visit energysavingtrust.org.uk/london or call 0800 512 012 for more details Fly less Reducing the amount of flights you take has a fantastically positive effect on the planet as flying is responsible for almost 20% of the UK’s impact on the environment.

But there’s no need to cancel that holiday, just go by train instead. Now that St Pancras International is up and running, you can leave home in Enfield and be in Paris just three and a half hours later.

You can comfortably get to Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid, and even Cologne in a day, and you’ll be sitting in comfort on your train watching the beautiful landscape

Special Report slide by rather than watching the screen in a soulless airport waiting for your gate number. If you replace your short flights with train journeys, you can feel better about taking a yearly long haul flight.

Visit eurostar.com for more ideas for trips by train Don’t throw away food One third of the food we buy ends up in the bin.You might assume that this must be all vegetable peelings and used teabags, but in fact most of what we throw away would have been perfectly edible. Once it leaves your bin, all this wasted food ends up in landfill where it emits harmful and poisonous gases such as methane. As well as being a waste of the labour-intensive production process and harmful to the environment, food waste could also be losing you money, perhaps as much as £460 a year per adult. Cutting out this food waste would have the same effect as taking 1 in 5 cars off the road, so it’s worth doing and all it takes is a little planning.

Make a list and once you get to the supermarket work from it, avoiding those tempting BOGOF offers unless you really need the extra products. At mealtimes, exercise a bit of portion control and box up any leftovers in used takeaway boxes, putting them in the fridge for tomorrow.

Visit lovefoodhatewaste.com for more tips

easy change we can all make straight away, no excuses. Just don’t use this as an excuse to buy the latest carbon-busting plasma TV and undo all that good work up the ladder.

Reuse plastic carrier bags There really is no need to feel guilty about using those much maligned plastic bags if you reemploy them for useful tasks at home. Bags for life are all very well but they don’t make great binbags! Most of Enfield’s supermarkets have plastic bag recycling bins, allowing you to recycle them rather than accumulating drawers full of bags.

Publishers Note “EN Magazine believes in and has a recycling policy and would encourage all our readers to recycle their copy once they have finished with it.

We always make sure that the paper that is used to print EN Magazine is sourced from sustainable forests.”

By Helen Ochyra

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Beautifully presented character two bedroom home, through lounge, luxury fitted kitchen, large upstairs bathroom, gas central heating, close to local shops and walking distance Gordon Hill BR station.

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Homes & Property

PROPERTY PANIC WHAT IS IN STORE FOR PROPERTY IN ENFIELD

I

t seems like not a week goes by without yet another revelation about the property market rearing its ugly head in the news. Whether controversy about the latest government initiatives, interest rate changes or the fluctuations of house prices, it seems buying a property is becoming almost as stressful as actually moving.

One of the latest property shocks has been a tumbling of house prices in the last three months of 2007, forcing the Bank of England to cut interest rates and sending a shudder down the spine of homeowners.

According to national figures, the average home is now worth £5,000 less than it was only a few months ago making this, according to some experts, the property market’s worst run of losses for more than a decade.

Richard Donnell, Director of Research for Hometrack, which provides solutions to the UK housing and mortgage industries explains. “A lack of housing for sale, driven by an unwillingness of vendors to commit to the market, is acting as a support to prices. It is also likely to result in the number of homes selling falling close to 1 million over 2008, way down on the 2+ million seen in the heydays of the late

1980s. This fall in turnover is not a one-off and is set to remain an important feature of the market for the foreseeable future.

Richard continues: “There is a lot of discretion driving housing transactions. Only two fifths of sales each year are by households who actually ‘need’ to sell for job or family reasons. The reality is that the house price boom of the last decade has been driven by aspirational buyers who have moved because they have been able to afford to, supported by lower interest rates and the availability of credit.”

However according to Dean Vale of James Hayward Estate Agents, the market always has its undulations - positive and negative. “Christmas comes at the same time each year, as do seasonal variations and school holidays. These always serve to cause a variance in the market. The recent speculation stemmed from fluctuations in the Bank of England base rate and newly implemented Home Information Packs have also caused some turbulence in the market.”

And in spite of all this hype, Andrew Standen of Chamberlains Estates remains quietly confident. “We’ve already had quite a high number of registrations, so assurance is still there. It’s difficult to

know what the rest of 2008 will bring, but I believe it’ll be a reasonable year.

Interest rates are still comparatively low and prices in Enfield have remained fairly stable. As long as there is a steady increase in value, I don’t see any reason for people to hold back from putting their property on the market. I would simply advise home owners to be realistic about limited price increases and to speak to their estate agent for information and advice.”

Dean agrees, suggesting that summer may be the time for buyers to keep their wits about them. “Personally, I think that we will see a level market for most of the year, though I think that we will see a gentle increase again as we move into autumn. It is anticipated that we will be seeing some interest rate cuts: one very soon and another one or two later in the year. This should give renewed confidence in the market. August may be the time to watch for any increases.”

Victoria Henson, a 26 year old young professional and first-time buyer who has been looking for a property since last summer and has only just clinched a deal, is less positive about the recent fluctuations.

“It is a risk and it does worry me but you can minimise that risk by taking out a fixed

19

Homes & Property rate mortgage which means that no matter if the interest rates go up or down, your rate does not change. It is also worrying that if prices drop I will lose money when I come to sell the flat. But the way I see it if I don’t get on the property ladder soon I never will!

Enfield or bust With an improved shopping centre attracting stores like Champneys and H&M in recent months, Enfield is ever becoming a popular place to live. The town is perfect for families thanks to an abundance of quality local schools, parks, amenities and facilities, whilst excellent rail and tube links into London also make it a great place for young professionals to live.

But how much are properties in Enfield? Dean explains: “There are price variants across Enfield as in any area.

Nearest the town in EN1 and EN2 the area is more desirable and so commands a higher premium than the other side of the A10. Notably parts of Bush Hill Park, Chase Side and The Ridgeway are the most sought after locations, but Enfield still

20

represents good value for money.”

In these more popular areas of the town, prices have risen by over a third in the last four years and has significantly exceeded growth in earnings. A twobed property in the EN2 postcode area now costs on average £232,098, which is considerably higher than the national average of £187,894. The likelihood of it continuing will be dependent upon price earnings ratio as well as investment by developers and local authorities in upgrading local infrastructure and schools. The continued strength of local and national economies is also a strong contributing factor.

With these high prices, it’s no surprise that according to Dean, young professionals living in the area may slowly be getting squeezed out. “Enfield still represents good value for money, though I strongly suspect that it is becoming harder

for the first time buyer to buy in the area due to the increases in property prices of recent years.” Victoria agrees: “I had always been under the impression that Enfield was slightly cheaper as it’s really Middlesex rather than London. Originally I wanted a two bedroom flat, but it soon became clear that this would not be possible on my budget and I could only just about afford a one bed flat - just about!”

In an attempt to control the property market and support buyers, the government is working on a number of policies, including the promise of three million houses by 2020 and a rise in shared home-ownership deals for first-time buyers. This is a welcome change for key workers, who are now completely priced out of London and the Southeast and for recent graduates who are struggling to buy a property.Victoria sums up the situation:

“ a two bed property in EN2 costs on average £232,098 - £44,204 higher than the national average ”

Thinking of selling or letting your home?

Why not share in our success?

Call today

020 8366 3551 47 Windmill Hill Enfield EN2 7AE

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Where our clients expect a great deal 21

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Homes & Property “To be honest the whole process [of buying a property] is the most stressful thing I have ever gone through in my life. I seem to be constantly shelling out money right now. London prices are ridiculously high and this needs to change as it’s not fair. I don’t know what the government can do, but it does need to do something.”

When a salary of £100,000 is required to get on the property ladder in one quarter of London’s boroughs, the dream of owning a property in these areas will come true for few. Relying on substantial financial help from parents, borrowing mortgage funds worth five or six times an average salary or even moving back into the parental home, are now commonplace.

Victoria needed to rely on parental financial assistance to buy a property too: “Luckily my mum helped me out with a very generous deposit, without which I wouldn’t have been able to buy at all or get an affordable mortgage, especially as I’m on my own. She is also helping with the solicitor’s fees, stamp duty and all the other associated costs”.

These low-income groups have not

necessarily been helped out by the latest government initiative to come into effect - the long-awaited and controversial HIPs introduced in December. Whilst they may help speed up the selling process and provide buyers with more detailed information, HIPs also add cost. This seems like yet another kick in the teeth for first time buyers, helping increase the divide in

a property market whereby only the well off can afford mortgages. Andrew explains: “Whilst reception of vendors to HIPs hasn’t been as bad as predicted, none of our clients has asked to see HIP reports.

The truth is that people buy with their heart – if they fall in love with a Victorian property, unfortunately the fact that it has poor energy performance matters less.”

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HOMESTART INTERNATIONAL PROPERTIES FOR EXPERT ADVICE

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23

Homes & Property start to visualise themselves living there. This makes a big difference.”

First impressions also count towards an overall improved appearance. “If the door bell doesn’t work and the front garden is overgrown, you’ve already potentially put a buyer off. It doesn’t cost much to paint the front door. A house which looks and smells clean and tidy is much easier to sell” says Andrew. Dean also cites bad smells and unkempt gardens as two ‘faux pas’ to avoid. “A trimmed and tended garden and subtle scents in the house are always a plus point. People need to feel that they are walking into their next home.”

Cindy Brown is an accredited consultant with the Ann Maurice network and advises both home owners and home sellers on how to get the best look for their home. Cindy said “For the vast majority of people their home is there most expensive asset. Presentation of that asset is more important than ever in currant conditions, so what’s the secret? “

ADVICE FROM THE PROFESSIONALS ON SELLING YOUR HOME W

hilst the housing market drama unfolds, the seemingly ubiquitous property programmes continue to provide food for thought. From Sarah Beeny’s encounters with amateur developers to Ann Maurice’s tips on selling, the country is gripped with home DIY mania.

But will redecoration and renovation really help sell your home? Andrew Standen of Chamberlain’s Estate Agents isn’t convinced. “The best course of action is to wait to make any changes until your estate agent has assessed your property and can advise on cost-effective and worthwhile improvements. A lick of paint in a neutral colour is often a good idea,

but shelling out on a new fitted kitchen or bathroom is not always the way to go.

These property programmes have made people much more open to the idea of making changes and personalising their new home themselves, but often expensive renovations before selling are a waste of money.”

Dean Vale of James Hayward agrees: “The most obvious and inexpensive tip to sellers is to de-clutter and neutralize.

It is simple and effective and can be done in a few days. And yes, that means our old friend Magnolia, which adds a sense of calm and makes rooms seem light and airy. Clear any crowded areas and keep furniture to a minimum. When people see space, they can

Unlock Your Homes Potential

Deja Vu

Gifts & Interior Accessories

Cindy Brown Property Presentation helps home owners with make over advice within a sensible budget •Colour Scheme& & Style Consultation •House Doctoring •Inspiration for Dated Homes •Small Developer Interiors •Between Tenant re-fresh

179 Chase Side, Enfield, EN2 0PT

020 8367 5050

Cindy is a consultant on the Ann Maurice House Doctor Network from TV

Tel: 0208 367 7741 Mobile: 07881643548 Email: cindybrown@blueyonder.co.uk www.cbhomestaging.co.uk

24

Homes & Property

EN MAGAZINE’S TOP TEN TIPS FOR SELLING YOUR HOME 1) De-clutter: Far too many people decide to tackle years of accumulated clutter, junk and excess after they have accepted an offer, sorting into boxes for the Tip, Charity, and giving to friends and family. Most buyers are moving up and looking for more space, those downsizing are particularly worried about lack of space. So who ever you sell to, your home needs to look spacious. Have a good sort out before your property goes on the market, if its all got too much for whatever reason then get professional help. A spacious home is a desirable home.

2) Kerb Appeal: The majority of buyers will do a ‘drive past’ on a property they are thinking of making a viewing on. Make the boundaries clear between your home and your neighbours, have blinds symmetrical from the outside, a new welcome mat adds colour, potted plants in coloured pots by the front door look homely. Is your home well lit? Is the house number easy to see?

3) First impressions: After the threshhold has been crossed, what greets a prospective purchaser? If it’s a pile of coats, a stack of shoes, three school bags and the cat litter tray then its time for a rethink! Surveys have shown that many buyers make up their mind within 30 seconds of entering a property. Keep it clear, clean, welcoming and with a strong focal point. Consider a mirror, a radiator cover, a print and a plant.

4) Storage: Or lack of it, sellers often wait until after they receive an offer before sorting through all their possessions. If your home looks like it has inadequate storage and you are bursting at the seams, your buyer may worry they will also quickly outgrow the home and be put off making an offer. If you must keep large amounts of personal possessions, consider hiring a storage unit. There are lots of companies offering stylish storage solutions to give all your bits and bobs an attractive hiding place.

5) Cleanliness: Clean, clean and clean again. A grout pen can get your tiles looking good, old-fashioned white vinegar and water will sparkle your taps, mirrors and windows. Have carpets steam cleaned. Invest in some new towels and bed linen if need be. Call in some help if you don’t have the time or energy to undertake the job.

This costs very little and has a big impact.

6) Artwork: Artwork when selling a property has a very specific purpose. To enhance the room/area in which it has been placed. It should be the correct size, colour and theme in order to enhance the setting. This is not to be confused with the artwork we buy just because we like it.

This artwork is working to help sell our home!

7) Accessories:View these in the same way as artwork.

They need to be large enough for the job. The height and colour should compliment the room. This is a good way to bring texture and even scent (scented candles) into a room, reinforcing your accent colours.

8) Lighting: Ambient lighting using soft diffusing light bulbs in colours such as apricot give a soft welcoming and warm glow to a home. Kitchen and bathroom lighting should be bright and welcoming. Never have a bare bulb hanging from the ceiling and change any blown bulbs immediately.

9) Photos: The photos your agent takes will be viewed by many perspective buyers. They may be viewed over the internet by clients unfamiliar with your area. These glimpses of your home are a major factor in deciding if a viewing is warranted. Spend a good few hours dressing your home. Use fresh flowers and pay particular attention to your key rooms: Lounge, Kitchen and Master bedroom.

10) Viewing: Try to be relaxed, don’t talk too much, this can be a distraction. Start in a room that is a good selling point. Don’t be negative about why you are moving. Be confident, a good well prepared home will have done most of the work for you.

EN MAGAZINES top ten tips were put together by Cindy Brown who is Enfield’s consultant on the Ann Maurice House Doctor Network and can be contacted on 07881 643548. or cindybrown@blueyonder.co.uk

25

Gardening

Getting Your Garden Ready For Spring...

T

he early signs of spring are clear to me here at Myddelton House Gardens: the smell of the slowly warming up soil and the joy of seeing the earliest crocus or daffodil blooms attended to by lethargic bumble bees and the joyous soundtrack of earnest birdsong!

E.A. Bowles wrote about the start of spring in his book ‘My Garden in Spring’.

He asked the question “When does spring commence?”. He then went on to say that most people would consider 21 March as the start of spring, whereas others might consider...a sentimental preference for the 14th of February, the feast of St. Valentine...”.

Global warming or a natural cycle of climate change: whatever the reason, spring is earlier nowadays than it was even thirty years ago, if you go by the earliest flowers marking the beginning of the new season.

Chances are the weather feels pretty cold

26

and not at all spring-like at the moment, yet for the gardener this is certainly spring and there are lots of things to do to prepare for the season stretching out in front of us.

One of the first gardening jobs of spring is the spreading of year-old compost on the beds. Here at Myddelton House Gardens we do this in the autumn and the spring, trying to do it when the weather has been dry, as this lessens the problems caused by compressing and compacting the soil and seriously muddying up your gardening boots and clothes. The worms will thank you for it (along with the Robins and Blackbirds) as this spreading of compost will improve the soil for plant growth throughout the season ahead. Spreading compost will negate the need for artificial fertilisers, some of which can harm wildlife. The practice of good soil preparation cannot be over-emphasised.This involves the digging in of well-rotted organic matter, preferably two spits deep (which

means twice the length of the spade, which is also known as double digging or ‘bastard trenching’ - and they’re not kidding!).

It is difficult to generalise about which plants will benefit from being divided up, pruned or tidied up over spring, as the individual species or plant groups have their own times (there’s no point in pruning back early spring flowering shrubs before they flower for obvious reasons!). Generally, roses are either pruned in November or March. I would recommend using a good gardening book to supply you with this sort of specialised information. The Royal Horticultural Society book ‘Pruning and Training’, by Christopher Brickell and David Joyce, really is the last word in the timetabling of pruning of almost any plant you might encounter and is set out in a very clear way for the more serious gardener and novice alike.

As well as being the last opportunity for

Gardening

clearing last year’s dead herbaceous growth (those plants which die down completely in the winter), now is the time to stake or mark out of where many of the herbaceous plants are planted. It is a great shame to walk over the newly sprouting crowns of such special plants as peonies with rough boots.

Many bare-rooted shrubs or trees are best planted at this time after the hardest frosts have passed. Remember to keep a watchful eye on their progress, as drying out has fatal consequences in a short period of time.

Pot-grown shrubs or trees can be planted almost any time of the year, although the more tender species should be planted in spring to allow them to establish themselves better for the inclement months of winter.

If you are planning a new hedge, the bare rooted deciduous trees such as beech or hornbeam are certainly best planted up at this time of year. And they are far less expensive to buy than their pot-grown counterparts.

Lawns will often need TLC at the onset of spring. The first spring mowing is best done on a dry day. If you have the option, set the blades to two inches or 2.5cms and box the cuttings for composting, as failure to do so can incur disease of the grass. Now is a good time to repair lawn edges which have crumbled. Scrape the lawn of debris with a fan-shaped wire rake and dress bare patches with new grass seed. It’s a good idea to cover the newly sown seed with sieved compost to lessen the impact of birds

making a feast of all the seed.

Potting up and watering the dormant roots (known as rhizomes) of dahlias and the now very popular canna lilies, along with begonias can take place now. However they do need to be frost-free, such as in a greenhouse (if you’re fortunate enough to have one). I know plenty of people who simply place these pots close to the house somewhere sheltered and bright and manage similar results. The annual seeds can be started in February (some with protection and warmth, although many of the hardiest such as Nigella (Love in the Mist) can be sown in situ.Those of you with the patience to grow almost anything from seed can now enjoy the seed sowing season. Remember to adhere to the information on the packet for each different species to increase your chances of success.

My final tip is that the Easter weekend is a very busy weekend at garden centres and nurseries. It’s often better to buy what you need during the weeks before Easter and then allow yourself the time at the long weekend of actually working in the garden, rather than queuing up at the check out!

Good gardening!

Bryan Hewitt NCH is Senior Gardener at Myddelton House Gardens, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority.

Visit www.leevalleypark.org.uk for more information about special events, talks and walks at Myddelton House Gardens and throughout Lee Valley Regional Park.

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What’s On !

WHAT’S ON AND THINGS TO DO IN THE ENFIELD AREA Ladies Lunch The Nightingale Community Hospice Trust Location: Bush Hill Park Golf Club Address: Bush Hill Park, EN2 Date: 06 March 2008 Time: 11:30 Duration: 4 hour(s) Ticket Price: £27.50 Description: Tickets to include 3 course meal and drinks reception. Guest speaker to be announced on the NCHT website.

Contact Phone/Fax: 020 8366 9674 English Heritage Work On Recent Sites In North London Enfield Archaeological Society - Mike Dewbrey Location: Jubilee Hall 2 Parsonage Lane, Enfield, EN2 0AJ Date: 07 March 2008 Time: 19:30 Duration: 2 hour(s) Ticket Price: £1.00 per person Description: Learn about the recent work which has been undertaken by English Heritage

by Kim Stabler.

Contact Phone/Fax: 01707 870888 Electric Mouse Comedy Club The Fox Pub, 413 Green Lanes, Palmers Green, London, N13 4JD 07 March 2008 Time: 20:00 Duration: 4 hour(s) Ticket Price: £9 on the door £7 in advance from behind the bar at the pub Description: Live comedy at the fox with award winning comics. Patrick Monahan Headlines with support from Al Stick, Sion James and MC Padraig Hyland. Music & late bar tickets also available through Lastminute.com @ ticketweb.

Contact Phone/Fax: 07849 651854 Contact Email: bookings@ electricmousecomedy.com Middlesex Literary

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Festival Location: Middlesex University Trent Park Campus Bramley Road, London, N14 4YZ Dates: 11 March 2008 – 12 March 2008 Time: 10:00 Ticket Price: FREE EVENT! (charges apply to workshops only £5 or £3 student) Description: Middlesex Literary Festival is back for its 8th year, celebrating many aspects of writing over this free, two-day event. Fay Weldon heads up our exciting list of guest speakers including Robert Hanks and Francis Spufford. Whether you’re a budding poet or established journalist, our readers and workshops will offer something for everyone. Come along from 10am onwards – for more information and a full list of guest speakers see our website.

Contact Email: mdxlitfest@ yahoo.co.uk Web Link: www.freewebs.com/ mdxlitfest Easter Egg Hunt Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice Capel Manor Gardens Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield, Middlesex, EN1 4RQ 22 March 2008 Time: 12:00 Duration: 3 hour(s) Ticket Price: NORMAL ADMISSION PRICES Join us for some Easter Fun and help us find some chocolate goodies! With face painting, a lucky dip, an Egg & Spoon race and lots more - there will be plenty to keep your little bunnies busy this Easter Bank Holiday weekend. A fundraising event in aid of Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice Contact Phone/Fax: 020 8449 8877 Contact Email: sstaples@ noahsarkhospice.org.uk Web Link: www. noahsarkhsopice.org.uk

Southgate Symphony Orchestra 7.30pm Saturday 15th March The Bourne Methodist Church, The Bourne, Southgate Programme - Piano Concerto No.5 in Eflat - The Emperor with Jessica Beaumont as soloist and Symphony No.5 by Vaughan Williams.

Tickets £8.50 or £6.50 for concessions available at the door or from the Box Office on 020 8363 9029 Abolition Of The North Atlantic Slave Trade And Slavery Civic Centre Silver Street, Enfield , EN1 3XJ Date: 08 March 2008 Time: 10:30 Ticket Price: FREE The legacies of slavery and the future – by Professor Gus John Civic Centre, Silver Street, Enfield EN1 3XJ For further information and to book a place please contact: Enfield Caribbean Association (ECA) Centre 14, 1st Floor, 14 Centre Way, Claverings Industrial Estate, Montagu Road, London N9 0AH. Contact Phone/Fax: 020 8351 1328 Contact Email: eca@ukonline. co.uk The Whitewebbs Museum of Transport will be holding an ‘Agricultural Machinery and Museum Open Day’ on Sunday 30th March from 10am – 4pm. Entrance is £3.00 for adults, accompanied children under 13 free.

Refreshments available, free parking on site. Comprehensive display of tractors, stationary engines and lawn mowers. Four floors of Museum exhibits. For further information phone the Museum office on 020 8367 1898.

Developing Enfield’s Diversity Of Culture And Heritage Event Cineworld Southbury Leisure Park, Southbury Road, Enfield, EN1 1YQ Date: 14 March 2008 Time: 10:00 Duration: 4 hour(s) Ticket Price: free 2008 Annual ECEN event aimed at stimulating discussion on the theme of developing the borough’s diversity of culture and heritage. Speakers include Martin Reid from the Cultural Industries Development Agency, Stuart McLeod from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Andrew Robinson CBE from CCLA Investment Management Ltd and John Knights from the Cabinet Office.

Contact Email: k.robinson@ ecen.org.uk Web Link: http://www.ecen. org.uk Free exhibition of photographs by Edmonton Camera Club at Forty Hall in the Gallery from 3rd February to 9th March 2008, wednesdays to sundays inclusive, 11am-4pm.

Tales From The Shed Every Friday and Saturday morning Chickenshed Chase Side Southgate London N14 4PE Entrance Cost: £5.30 adult / £3.70 children £4.20 / £2.60 concession.

Dates: Friday 25 April (one show at 11.30 am) Saturday 26 April 9.30 am and 11.15 am Friday 2 May (one show at 11.30 am) Saturday 3 May 9.30 am and 11.15 am Friday 9 May (one show at 11.30 am) Saturday 10 May 9.30 am and 11.15 am Friday 4 July 9.30 am and 11.15 am Saturday 5 July 9.30 am and 11.15 am

What’s On !

Friday 11 July 9.30 am and 11.15 am Saturday 12 July 9.30 am and 11.15 am Each show approx 50 mins to an hour Box Office: 020 8292 9222 / Minicom: 020 8350 0676 Chickenshed’s popular Interactive children’s shows Tales From The Shed is back for another season.

Step into a world of music and magic - Tales from the Shed brings stories, both original and traditional, to life in a land of colour, characters and fun. This interactive performance for the under 7’s introduces them to a universe where there is no edge to the stage, so children and performers travel a theatrical journey together.

Tales has been running since 1996 and has created hundreds of songs and stories and many, many characters. Thousands of children have passed through its magical world of makebelieve, building friendships with the characters, learning the songs, almost as they learn to talk, bringing their own magic to an ever-changing show that absorbs their contribution and imagination.

Tales from the Shed is part of Chickenshed’s inclusive programme. It is for all children and shows us a world where everybody can come and share together and not only believe in the magic but make it happen. (Children attending must be accompanied by an adult)

Regular Events The Rotary Club of Enfield Chase meets on Thursday mornings from 7.30 until 8.30 in the Coffee Lounge, Enfield Baptist Church, Cecil Road , Enfield Town.

For more information call 020 8367 7278

Jack and Jill’s Music Club Fun and learning through song for 0-4s.

Thursdays 10-11am St Michael and All Angels Church Hall, Chase Side, Enfield.

Fridays 10-11am Grange Park Methodist Church, Old Park Ridings N21 For more information visit www.jackandjillmusic.co.uk or contact Jacqui 07742 545605

9pm, at Armfield Church Hall, Armfield Road, Enfield, Your first meeting is free so you can come to see whether or not it’s for you. Please ring Linda Moore on 020 8349 0121 for the date of the next meeting or to find out more about the club

Civil Service Retirement Fellowship Enfield Branch monthly meeting on Monday 3rd March will be a General Knowledge Quiz at St Andrews Church Hall, Silver Street, Enfield , from 10.30 am, refreshments served from 10 am. Admission £1. New members welcome.

Thank you.

Enfield Carers for people who look after partners, family or friends in need of help because they are ill, frail, or have a disability. The help carers give is unpaid.

We meet 4th Monday monthly for mutual support, fun and practical advice .7.30 -9.30 pm Community House 311 Hertford Road Edmonton contact for more details 020 8803 1000 substitute care and transport may be available

Diabetic Exercise Club Keep fairly fit, Exercises to suit all levels of fitness at the Chase Diabetic Exercise Club. Meet Mondays 6-7pm at Chase Farm Hospital. All welcome, you do not have to be diabetic to benefit from regular exercise. Contact Pauline on 0208 363 1568.

Bridge Club Bridge Players – Room 6 Bridge Club , plays duplicate alternating with Chicago/ rubber in a social atmosphere Mondays 7.30 – 10 pm at Southgate School close to Oakwood tube station Contact 020 8360 8098 or 020 366 3769

Edmonton Camera Club Millfield House, Silver Street, Edmonton 7.45. Visitors welcome, free entry for first four visits. Check our website www.edmontoncameraclub. co.uk or ring Pete on 0208 363 1568.

Soroptimists of Enfield and District Meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 8pm at the Methodist Church, West pole Street, Cockfosters. A guest speaker will talk on varied and interesting subjects such as Enfield in the early 1900’s, Life of a Lady Butler, Radio Enfield and more.

For information call 020 8364 2468 or 0208 367 5872

Albany Badminton Club Wednesday 8.30pm - 10pm at Albany Sports Hall The Standard is mixed from very good to beginners and new players always welcome.

Cost £5 a night £3 for students Dolls House Club Are you interested in making miniature items for dolls houses & their gardens?

Would you like to chat with other enthusiasts?

Then why not come along to our Dolls House Club We are a friendly group of all ages and meet on alternate Thursday evenings, 7:30 -

Dance Classes HOT SALSA Wednesday’s Club 19 @ Trent Park Doors Open 7.30 till 12pm Beginners - Level 1 8-9 pm Improvers - Level 2 9-10 pm Intermediates- Level3 9-10 pm Advanced - Level 4 9-10 pm La Rueda ‘Cuban Wheel’ 8- 9 pm Dips & Drops 9 - 10 pm Hot Salsa Social after 10 pm

For more information visit www.hotsalsa.co.uk or call 07947 765 499 LATIN DANCE CLUB Tuesday Nights at the North Enfield Conservative Club, Baker Street Enfield The best sprung dance floor we have ever seen!

Salsa Beginners 8pm, Cha Cha Beginners 9pm, Dancing til 11:30pm WEST COAST SWING The Hottest West Coast Swing Dancing to the Coolest Music A New weekly Hot Dance Night Mondays Doors open at 7:30 pm Classes at 8pm Social Dancing from 10 pm Beginners Section 8 - 9 pm Juniors & Private Sessions (prebooked only) 7 - 8 pm Improvers/Intermediates Section (Level 2) 9 -10 pm Party Time at 10 pm! (NonDancers Welcome) 2 hours of freestyle swing dancing mixed with some of the hottest new tunes to put a smile on your face and a spring in your step!

For more information visit www.hotswing.co.uk or call 07947765499

Live Music Saturday Morning Concerts Grange Park Methodist Church Old Park Ridings N21 Coffee at 10.15, Concert at 11.30 to 12.30 19th April Junko Kobayashi (pianist) 10th May Angela Brownridge (pianist) 7th June Felicity Vincent (Cello) 5th July Joanna Pullicino (mezzo soprano) 2nd August Adam Johnson (pianist) 6th Sept Abbraci Piano Quartet 4th Oct Jill Crossland (piano) 1st Nov Keith Nichols (jazz pianist)

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What’s On !

Concert By Enfield Chamber Orchestra Enfield Chamber Orchestra (charity No 1119097) Palmers Green United Reformed Church Fox Lane, Palmers Green (corner Of Burford Gardens), N13 4AL Date: 01 March 2008 Time: 19:30 Duration: 2 hour(s) Ticket Price: Adults £8 Concessions £7 Children under 12 Free The programme will include:.....Saint Saens: Cello Concerto with soloist Jessica Burroughs.....Haydn: Symphony No 104 - The London ...Mendelssohn: Hebrides Overture. All welcome, Disabled access. Bus Routes 329, W6 and W9 within walking distance Contact Phone/Fax: 020 8363 7257 Contact Email: info@ enfieldchamberorch.org.uk Web Link: http://www. enfieldchamberorch.org.uk/ concerts.html BIGBOPPA’S ROCK’N’ROLL CLUB Botany Bay Cricket Club, East Lodge Lane Enfield Unless stated otherwise all events are subject to doors opening at 7.30pm, shows start at 8.45pm. Admission prices £5 for members and £7 for nonmembers. Guests welcome but must phone 020 8292 7562 as

admission may be restricted Admission Members £8 Guests £10 Wednesday 12th March- Mike’s Band THE BAY JAZZ CLUB 4th March- The Frog Island Jazz Band - Making a welcome return to the Bay. Members £5.50 Guests £7.50 11th March- SPECIAL- The DUTCH ALL STARS- another return by this Dutch Band.

Members £8.00 Guests £10.00 18th March Vo-do-o-do Orchestra- an annual visit to the club.

Members £5.50 Guests £7.50 25th March Dave Stradwick’s Sussex Jazz Kings - Voted the clubs favourite Jazz Band.

Members £5.50 Guests £7.50 Jazz Shed in the Chickenshed Bar Chase Side Southgate London N14 4PE Good Friday - Friday 21 March Bar/Restaurant opens 7.30 pm Jazz from 8.30 -11.30 pm Price: £10.00 / £7.50 concessions Evening menu available.

Booking telephone No: 020 8292 9222 Minicom: 020 8350 0676 World Class virtuoso plays at Jazz Shed - Keyboard Ace Neil Angilley was a celebrated child prodigy musician before

studying piano, trumpet and composition at the Royal Academy of Music.

He was nominated for a prestigious Grammy Award with British Jazz funk band ‘ Down To The Bone ‘ , and has written and produced tracks for David Benoit, Richard Ellliot, Snowboy, Julian Marc Stringle, Rachel Calladine, Down To The Bone and Just East of Jazz.

At the age of 20 Neil travelled extensively in South America and discovered a vivacious rhythmic style of music that he had never heard before.

His passion for Latin American rhythms has never left him and on Good Friday he launches his latest album ‘ Havana Club’ at the Chickenshed. All the tracks on ‘Havana Club ‘ are in the Latin Jazz vein with the emphasis on the Latin. It is the infectious sound of music from Brazil, Argentina, Cuba and Uruguay.

Accompanying Neil at the Jazz Shed all the way from Toulon in the South of France comes bass ace Nico Gomez - and flying in from Rome for the gig will be Italian drum star Davide Giovannini. British percussionist and latin band leader Snowboy is Neil’ s special guest on congas and percussion.

Come early!

MILLFIELD ARTS CENTRE

Silver Street, Edmonton, London N18 1PJ. www. millfieldtheatre.co.uk Box Office 020 8807 6680 Book Online : www. millfieldtheatre.co.uk Transport - Tube Piccadilly Line to: Turnpike Lane Tube then buses 144, 217 or 231 or Arnos Grove Tube, then 34 bus or Bounds Green Tube, then 102 bus or Wood Green Tube, then 144 bus British Rail Liverpool Street – Silver Street and a 10-minute walk or bus 34,102 or 144 Saturday 1 March 8pm FRANCESCA MARTINEZ Fresh from a critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Festival 2007, Martinez is back tackling taboos after sell-out tour dates in Britain, Ireland, Australia, Canada and on Broadway, New York!

Suitable for persons over 16 years.

Tickets£12 Concessions £10 Group rate Sunday 2 March 7.30pm ANTONY COSTA Antony Costa burst onto the scene as one part of hugely successful boy band Blue.

Antony will be performing songs from Blood Brothers and Boogie Nights along with many

Useful Contact Numbers Enfield Borough Police Crime Prevention Office Crimestoppers Neighbourhood Watch Anti Terrorist Hotline

020 8807 1212 020 8345 1102 0800 555 111 020 7963 0160 0800 789 321

Enfield Council 24 Hour Contact No

020 8379 1000

NHS Direct 0845 46 47 Chase Farm & Barnet Hospital Switchboard 0845 111 4000 Chase Farm Hospital Accident & Emergency 020 8375 1010 Barnet Hospital Accident & Emergency 020 8216 5003 North Middlesex University Hospital Switchboard 020 8887 2000 Alcoholics Anonymous Gamblers Anonymous

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0845 769 7555 08700 50 88 80

Narcotics Anonymous

020 773 0009

Childline Cruse Bereavement Care Helpline Samaritans

0800 1111 0870 1671677 0845 790 9090

RSCPA 24 Hour Emergency Vet

0870 555 5999 01992 762699

Three Valleys Water Freephone Leakline 0800 376 5325 Thames Water Freephone Leakline 0800 714 614 National Gas Emergency Service Freephone 0800 111 999 London Electricity Freephone 0800 0280 247 National Rail Enquiries

08457 48 49 50

Congestion Charge Phone Line

0845 900 1234

What’s On ! of the Blue hits. He will also be taking questions from the audience!

Tickets £18 Group rate Thursday 6 March 7.30pm THE MOTOWN SHOW The Motown Show is an evening crammed full of all your Motown favourites, with a large dosage of the UK Hits of the Four Tops and The Temptations, PLUS, hits from other famous artists of the era such as Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Ben E. King, The Stylistics, Stevie Wonder, Wilson Pickett, and more.

Tickets £17.50 Friday 7 March 8pm STEWART LEE 41st Best Stand-up Ever!

A recent official Channel 4 survey of the 100 Greatest Stand-up’s Ever placed Stewart Lee at number 41.

His mother, whom he loves dearly, thinks Tom O’Connor the better comedian, having seen him do a joke about a sardine on a cruise ship ten years ago. And he isn’t even in the top 100...

Tickets £12 Group rate Sunday 9 March 7.30pm OFF THE WALL Off The Wall are Europe’s leading production dedicated to recreating the spirit of Pink Floyd and bringing together some of the finest musicians in the business.

Tickets £20 Wednesday 12 March 10.30am & 1.30pm SHAKESPEARE4KIDZ The Tempest Shakespeare 4 Kidz: The Tempest is a mystical, magical, mysterious, musical romantic comedy of revenge, a father’s love for his daughter and the misuse of power.

Perfect for those studying Shakespeare at Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3.

Tickets £13.50 Children £8.50

Friday 14 – Sunday 16 March 8pm (Sunday 7.30pm) CHAS AND DAVE The legendary cockney duo have a cult following of young and old after appearing at Glastonbury on three separate stages in 2007.

Tickets £18 Concessions £17 Group rate Friday 21 – Saturday 22 March 1pm & 3.30pm BARNEY “THE LET’S GO TOUR” Premier Stage Productions are proud to present the characters from the Hit Entertainment TV show Barney live on stage in the all new “Let’s Go Tour”.

Tickets £12 Saturday 29 March 8pm RAY GELATO AND HIS GIANTS ORCHESTRA Swing Italiano An evening of classic Italian American Swing music performed by the Undisputed World Heavyweight Champion of Swing!

Tickets £15.50 Concessions £14.50 Friday 11 – Saturday 12 April 7.30pm BUGSY MALONE Gangsters, Splurge Guns, Showgirls and Gambling – and that’s only in the first five minutes!! Come along to see this fabulous production of the well-loved musical Bugsy Malone, we guarantee you will leave the theatre singing the songs!

Tickets £8.50

Thank You for reading EN! We hope that you have enjoyed the March issue and would welcome your comments and feedback on this issue.

Please email us at editorial@ enmagazine.co.uk or write to us at EN Magazine, DAL Media Ltd, PO Box 1099, Enfield, EN2 9JF. The Next issue of EN will be out at the start of April and will include articles on - The Top 10 Holiday Destinations - Scuba Diving - A review of this Summers Fashions and horse riding in Enfield.

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“Friendly and efficient service, professional and realistic advice, competitive quotes and hourly rates” Martin Shepherd & Co SOLICITORS

EDMONTON Croyland House 113 Hertford Road Edmonton London N9 7EE Tel: 020 8373 8373 Fax: 020 8373 8383 email: edmonton@martinshepherd.co.uk

ENFIELD 29 Southbury Rooad Enfield Middlesex EN1 1YZ Tel: 020 8367 3230 Fax: 020 8367 7472 email: reception@martinshepherd.co.uk

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