MILLWALL EXCLUSIVE
Shacks shines after getting his shot Issue 1627
Established: 1987
things to do with the kids this Easter
50p
March 30 2023
Page 30
southwarknews.co.uk
Exclusive
life lost in e-bike fire
Page 18
FOUR more schools to merge Page 6
Mum makes a desperate plea after daughter’s tragic death Easter Holidays 1st - 15th April 2023
greenwichtheatre.org.uk
Page 4
2 NEWS www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
NEWS Pages 2-18 OPINION Pages 16-17 Arts Pages 19 Classified & Family announcements Page 21 Public notices Pages 23-25 SPORT Pages 26-32
Goldfish can’t be given away as prizes under new council rules By Herbie Russell
Lee Gingell, the organisation’s public affairs manager, has previously said: “Sadly – despite many believing it is a thing of the past – we still do hear of instances of pets being given out as prizes. “But animal ownership is a big responsibility – and while goldfish can make great companions, they shouldn’t be acquired via a spur-of-the-moment game. “Goldfish are easily stressed and very often fish that are won as prizes suffer miserably from shock, oxygen starvation or die from changes in water temperature, and many may die before their new owners can get them home. “They’re misunderstood pets – as they can make great companions; but can actually be challenging to look after and new owners must do their research before they acquire the fish, not afterwards. “When bringing a fish home for the first
herbie@southwarknews.co.uk Southwark Council has banned fairgrounds from giving goldfish and other live animals away as prizes.
The decision comes amid the RSPCA’s warnings that the “easily stressed fish… suffer miserably from shock, oxygen starvation” and “changes in water temperature”. Councillors voted to ban the practice on Southwark land at council assembly, on Wednesday, March 22. The Greater London Assembly (GLA) started urging boroughs to end the practice in September 2021. Southwark Council is now one of over 40 local authorities across England and Wales opposing the practice. The RSPCA runs a Pets as Prizes Campaign.
©Mark Fischer
Contents
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
time, it’s important to set the tank up at least two weeks in advance to make sure it’s all running smoothly, and this just isn’t possible for someone who’s won a fish without being prepared for it.” In the UK, it’s legal to give animals away as prizes, although recipients under the age of sixteen must be accompanied by an adult. Southwark Council will also write to the government to demand a ban on pets as
Southwark residents will be able to invest in the council’s climate projects By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk
Contact us if you have a story on 07973175511 or email
editor@southwarknews .co.uk
We are a London Living Wage employer Do you have a story
for our news team? Call 0207 231 5258 You can WhatsApp us on 07494 070 863.
prizes on public and private land throughout the UK. The maltreatment of pets is considered a huge challenge for the RSPCA, especially because the cost-of-living crisis has made some owners give them up. In January, two guinea pigs were found abandoned in a freezer bag in Deptford and, in November, a tortoise with a soft underdeveloped shell was left on a van bonnet in Peckham.
Local residents will be able to invest in environmental projects as part of a new scheme passed at council assembly on Wednesday, March 22.
‘Southwark Green Finance’ will be introduced in the upcoming financial year and allow investors to keep their interest payments or reinvest them in non-income generating projects like wildflower meadows. This local climate bond scheme got the green light following a Liberal Democrat motion, although Southwark Labour have pointed out that introducing ‘Southwark Green Finance’ was one of their manifesto pledges last year. Labour’s amendment to the motion said: “The commitment to ‘launch Southwark Green Finance…was a key commitment in the recent Southwark Labour manifesto. Southwark Green Finance can be a vital part in tackling the climate emergency.” Southwark Lib Dem Local Economy Spokesperson Cllr Rachel Bentley said: “Obviously we are very glad the council has
Local community project Glengall Wharf Garden, Burgess Park. (Not necessarily involved in the Southwark Green Finance) agreed to our proposal of starting a climate bonds scheme. “This public investment can fund projects that will directly benefit local communities and help tackle the climate emergency.” Similar schemes, sometimes called MILLWALL EXCLUSIVE
YOUNG LIONS SET BIG CHALLENGE Issue 1626
Established: 1987
50p
Page 4
Editor: Kevin Quinn Deputy Editor: Katherine Johnston Reporters: Herbie Russell; Isabel Ramirez Sports Editor: John Kelly Sports reporter: Alex Jones Arts Correspondent: Michael Holland Media Partnerships: Anthony Phillips Advertising: Clarry Frewin, Sophie Ali Design: Dan Martin, Ann Gravesen Finance: Em Zeki - Tel: 0779 883 3758 Subscriptions/Announcements: Katie Boyd Managing & Commercial Director: Chris Mullany Managing & Editorial Director: Kevin Quinn Published weekly on a Thursday at: Unit A202, The Biscuit Factory, Drummond Road, Bermondsey, London SE16 4DG. News and Sport: 020 7231 5258 Advertising: 0792 203 4598 News: news@southwarknews.co.uk Advertising: ads@southwarknews.co.uk Finance: em@southwarknews.co.uk Printed by Iliffe Print. Tel: 01223 656500 www.iliffeprint.co.uk
LISA GETS PUBS TO TAKE BLEED CONTROL KITS - IN BID TO SAVE LIVES OF STAB VICTIMS
March 23 2023
southwarknews.co.uk
Page 30
Page 3
Page 9
MILLWALL EXCLUSIVE
IS DULWICH TOO POSH FOR A POUNDLAND?
WILLIAM’S BID TO BE THE FASTEST BRIT TO RUN ACROSS THE USA
THINLY SPREAD
• News investigation finds one estate officer for every 617 council households • Protesting pupils set to meet council leader over mould and housing repairs • Renewed calls to bring back estate caretakers EXCLUSIVE Page 8 Easter Holidays 1st - 15th April 2023
greenwichtheatre.org.uk
community municipal investments, have been launched by London boroughs including Lewisham, Islington and Camden. A scheme in West Berkshire raised £1 million to build solar panels on public buildings. In that project, 16 per cent of West Berkshire
Council investors chose to donate their first interest payments to a wildflower verge restoration project. The council will use multi-ward forum meetings to ask residents what projects would benefit their communities the most. The Lib Dems had called for the immediate introduction of the scheme through existing platforms that help local authorities get started. But Labour’s amendment delays its introduction to within “the next financial year” which begins on April 6, 2023 and ends on April 5, 2024. Cllr Rachel Bentley said: “Labour need to stop dragging their heels and start this scheme promptly.” Bruce Davis, Managing Director at Abundance Investment, one investment platform that can be used, told the News that climate bonds schemes posed obvious benefits to local authorities. He said borrowing in this way was “cheaper than borrowing from the UK government” and enabled councils to “get that engagement from people” on environmental issues.
The Southwark News is proud to be the only independent, paid for newspaper in London Southwark News started life as the Bermondsey News in 1987, as an A-4 photocopied sheet of paper and rapidly grew to cover the entire borough and the surrounding area. As the borough grew, so did the newspaper. It is owned and run by Chris Mullany and Kevin Quinn. Former reporters for Southwark News, they bought the title in 2002, after the founder Dave Clark died suddenly from cancer four years earlier. Both directors live in the borough. A dedicated team of staff work tirelessly to cover as much of what is going on as possible and strive to ensure that a community-led, independent newspaper can survive and excel in a market dominated by national and multinational media groups.
Follow our social media to be updated on local news
southwark-news
@southwark_news
Southwark News is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry). We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards and want to make a complaint, please contact 0207 231 5258. If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit www.ipso.co.uk
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
nline
southwarknews.co.uk
The woman who has created a real community hub at her small cafe in the park isabel@southwarknews.co.uk A Bermondsey-based woman is being praised by locals for her cafe in the park, which they say is more like a community hub than just a place to eat and drink.
Bell Zeki, who is originally from Cyprus, has lived in the Bermondsey area for 36 years, and before recently had always done jobs in the care sector. “I used to be a carer,” she said. “I’ve done cleaning jobs too. “When I came to this country I had no English. Now, I’m running a business!” She started up a cafe out of a kiosk in Bermondsey Spa Gardens at the junction of Grange Road and Spa Road around four years ago. Bell’s Cafe sells affordable food
NEWS 3
London Bridge’s restored Findlater’s Corner a hit with viewers when aired on tele
Watch the video
By Isabel Ramirez
www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
and drink, including Turkish dishes like her ‘bestselling’ Lamb Kofte Panini and homemade Mezze. “I’ve always loved cooking,” Bell said. “I used to give my food to my friends, and my neighbours and they used to say to me ‘Bell, if you open a cafe, you will be a millionaire.’ I’m still waiting!” she joked. As well as the food, the community feel is what people come back for. Wendy Cookson, from Bermondsey, said she has been going there since it opened. “Living here it’s very important to support the local people who are running places like this and she offers something that no one else does. “Even if you come on your own, it never feels like you’re alone. “This wasn’t anything before - and look what she’s done with it,” Wendy added.
In fact, one of her customers phoned the News and explained what Bell and her cafe had done for her. “[The customer] came to me one day, and she was crying - so I asked her ‘what’s happened?’ Bell explained. “She said because of you, I started to come out of the house. For me, that is so so special.” Bell said she is ‘living her dream’: “I love helping people and this place is everything I love all in one. I’m living my dream at the moment.” She said the only thing that is missing is a toilet, which she continues to ask the council to install as there are none in the park. “People tell me it stops them from staying longer than they would like.” Bell’s Cafe, Bermondsey Spa Gardens, 145 Grange Road, SE1 3EU
Docks fit for the future Arts page 19
Top an old photo of the facade and below after its restoration (insert) architect Benedict O’Looney
By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk A beautifully restored Victorian-era winery facade beneath a London Bridge railway arch has been featured on the TV programme ‘The Architecture The Railways Built’.
The programme, available on UK TV Play, sees Peckham-based architect Benedict O’Looney help historian Tim Dunn explore the secrets of the site known as Findlater’s Corner. Sitting at the bridge’s south end, Findlater’s Corner was established by historic wine merchants Findlater’s Mackie & Todd in 1865, providing a useful drink stop for Victorian commuters heading home from work. Its stunning Beaux-arts facade had fallen into disrepair, but Benedict O’Looney oversaw its restoration as part of a £3 million project by The Arch Company and Railway Heritage Trust. Last summer, the scaffolding was finally removed, offering commuters a unique insight into Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Mr O’Looney wrote: “It was filmed on a balmy day last August when the scaffold offered us a close study of the fabulous Doulton’s Carrara Ware ceramic façade, made up the river at the Lambeth pottery. “A week or so before, we discovered a long-lost glass mosaic from the Dairy Express Tea Room to the façade of the adjacent railway arch, Borough High Street.
Excitement all around!” Findlater’s original Victorian frontage was replaced in 1900 with a new Beauxarts facade, made from a glazed terracotta known as Carrara Ware. In the programme, Mr O’Looney explains how the “wonder material” was perfect for smokey London because rainwater would wash soot straight off. Benedict O’Looney said the fact it had been fired made the detail look as if “it was made yesterday”. “I’m a little bit emotional because I’ve seen this ruined for so many years and it’s back,” says presenter Tim Dunn. The clock atop the structure had been broken for years but has also been repaired and given new hands and glass by clockmaker Gillet & Johnston. And the ceramic stag head, denoting the Findlater family’s Scottish ancestry, had become pockmarked and lost an antler, but has now also returned to its former glory. Over the summer, contractors were surprised to find a mosaic beneath the render walls - the work of celebrated mosaicist Jesse Rust. It marked the entrance to an Express Dairy, a place that got fresh milk delivered from the countryside, considered superior to London cows’ milk. The programme also sees Tim Dunn explore London Bridge’s “bright, airy and tranquil modern terminus”. Watch the full programme for free at UK TV Play. The show was broadcasted on March 21, 2023, and has already featured on Yesterday and UKTV.
4 NEWS www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
Mother makes desperate plea after an e-bike fire on Old Kent Road killed her only daughter Sofia Duarte
By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk
The bike believed to have caused the fire.
A distraught mother is urging people to take care with e-bikes after her only daughter Sofia Duarte, 21, was killed in a fire on the Old Kent Road caused by a converted e-bike.
Maria Frasquilho Macarro described life as a “nightmare” ever since losing her “superstar” daughter, a nightclub bartender, to the blaze above a Nigerian restaurant in South Bermondsey on New Year’s Day. Investigators believe the fire was caused when a converted e-bike blocking an escape route burst into flames. Maria is determined that the loss of her daughter will not be in vain. She said: “Sofia loved life, she loved to party and she enjoyed her job working behind the bar at a nightclub. Now all I have left is my daughter’s ashes. “I really want to make sure her death is not in vain and if I can raise awareness about the dangers of e-bikes and lithium batteries then there will be a positive in this. “If we can save someone else’s life, I will take great comfort in that because at the moment I am hurting - I don’t want others to suffer as much as I have done.” Described as “the light in every party”, Sofia “loved life” and had reportedly planned to become a prison officer where she hoped to help convicts’ rehabilitation. Raised in West London by her mother who is from Portugal, she was reportedly visiting her boyfriend when a fire engulfed the building above Calabar Zone by Dunton Road, at 5pm on January 1. Horrific scenes ensued, with fireballs described as exploding from the windows as bystanders screamed and people tried to break the front door down. Others managed to escape the building but Sofia was the only person who didn’t make it and she was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. Heart-wrenching tributes poured in for the “beautiful young lady” from friends and family and £4,142 was raised to cover funeral costs. According to posts on the GoFundMe page, she was buried in a pink coffin, surrounded by her favourite red roses, with doves released “so she won’t fly alone”. Sofia’s friend Alda Simoes wrote at the time: “We will make sure you get the send off you deserve babygirl. You have gone too soon but you will never leave our hearts…” “Sofia meant the world to me and my family. I don’t know how to live without her. It feels like a nightmare and I can’t wake up,” her mother said this week. Six fire engines and around 40
#ChargeSafe campaign safety tips for e-bike and e-scooter users: • •
firefighters from Old Kent Road, Dockhead and New Cross fire stations had attended the scene. Fire investigators surveying the site discovered a bicycle had been converted into an e-bike and its lithium battery had “failed catastrophically”, sparking the fire. Conversion kits allow people to fit electric motors to their bikes but not all are sold with a battery. People sometimes buy cheap batteries online but they don’t always adhere to UK safety standards and can become fire hazards if they fail. While there was no evidence of poor installation on the bike in question, DIY installations can also damage the kit, increasing the likelihood of battery failure and the possibility of a fire, the brigade said. So far in 2023, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) has been called to a fire once every two days. In 2022, there were 116 fires caused by e-bikes or e-scooters. Lithium batteries store huge amounts of energy in a confined space so overcharging, crushing or penetrating them can lead to fires and explosions. LFB’s Deputy Commissioner Dom Ellis said: “Sofia’s death is a tragedy, and our condolences are with her family and friends. We are working hard to prevent these types of incidents in the future.
“E-bikes and e-scooters are becoming more common in London and the risk of significant fires is rising too. We want people to travel safely and be aware of the risks that the batteries present as part of our #ChargeSafe campaign. Protect yourself and your loved ones by following our #ChargeSafe tips and by using our Home Fire Safety Checker. “Never block your escape route with anything, including e-bikes and e-scooters. The only way to be sure of a legal, safe and reliable e-bike is to buy one in complete form, from a trusted and reputed retailer. “The number of incidents our fire crews are attending shows that buying a product from a reputable seller will help protect you, your family and property from bursting into flames - not forgetting the peace of mind it can give.” Usually, the LFB does not comment on deaths while the coroner’s court processes are ongoing but the severity of the incident and the need to raise awareness has prompted the appeal. Maria’s pleas come just a week after a fire in Deptford prompted firefighters to issue an e-bike safety warning. A week before that, a man had to be rescued from a flat fire above a shop on Sunday, probably caused by a charging e-bike, on Deptford High Street.
• • • • • • • • •
Never block your escape route with anything, including e-bikes and e-scooters. Store them somewhere away from a main through route. Our advice is to store these items in a safe location if possible, such as a garage or a shed. Check your battery and charger meets UK safety standards.? Watch out for signs that the battery or charger aren’t working as they should – if it’s hot to the touch or has changed shape. Always use the correct charger and buy an official one from a reputable seller. We have particular concern where batteries have been purchased from online marketplaces and when they’ve been sourced on the internet, which may not meet the correct safety standards. Let the battery cool before charging. Batteries can get warm during their use and it is advisable to allow them to cool down before attempting to re-charge as they could be more susceptible to failure. If you are charging batteries indoors, please follow our advice on safe charging. Unplug your charger once it’s finished charging. Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when charging and we would advise not to leave it unattended or while people are asleep. Fit alarms where you charge. Ensure you have smoke alarms fitted in areas where e-bikes or e-scooters are being charged and make sure they are tested regularly. You can quickly and easily check your home by visiting our free online home fire safety checker tool by visiting london-fire.gov.uk/checker.
Calabar Zone on Old Kent Road
PRODUCED IN ASSOCIATION WITH HM GOVERNMENT
Checking your blood pressure might just save your life More than 12 million people in England suffer from high blood pressure or hypertension with more than four million of those unaware they even have it. It is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and if left untreated it increases the risk of serious illnesses including strokes and heart attacks. But you can do something now to help prevent it. Here’s how ... High blood pressure is the leading cause of CVD and can also impact on such conditions as dementia and type 2 diabetes. It is often called the ‘silent killer’ because if you have high blood pressure, you may not even know about it until you have a heart attack or a stroke. If you have high blood pressure, reducing it even by a small amount can help lower your risk of these serious and potentially life-threatening health conditions. That is why it is vital you get your blood pressure checked ... it just might save your life! It is a simple process, the best way to find out whether you are at risk, and all adults aged over 40 are advised to have their blood pressure checked at least every five years. You can get your blood pressure tested at a number of places, including many pharmacies, your GP surgery, as well as in some workplaces.
You can also check it yourself with a home blood pressure monitor. There are a range of monitors available and prices start at £20. It is important that the one you choose is accurate and the right one for you. Ask your GP practice or pharmacist or check out the advice on the British Heart Foundation website.
Healthy and appy! n The next time you need a repeat prescription, why not use the NHS App instead of calling your surgery? n It’s a simple and secure way to access a whole range of NHS services as well as find reliable information on hundreds of different conditions and treatments. n Download the app at nhs.uk/nhs-app
The cause of high blood pressure is not always known, but things that may increase your risk include having an unhealthy diet, being overweight, not exercising enough, not getting enough sleep and smoking. The good news is that making healthy lifestyle changes can help reduce your chances of getting high blood
pressure and help lower your blood pressure if it’s already high. What works best is different for each person and some people with high blood pressure may need to take medicine to stop their blood pressure getting too high. Talking to your pharmacist or GP surgery can help you decide your best treatment.
“Over a quarter of adults have high blood pressure although many will not realise due to a lack of noticeable symptoms. If left untreated it increases your risk of serious problems such as heart attacks and strokes. The only way to find out if your blood pressure is high is to have your blood pressure checked.” Dr Shahed Ahmad, National Clinical Director for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, NHS England
How to help yourself n Get your blood pressure checked now! n Eat more fruit and vegetables n Exercise more n Reduce the amount of salt in your diet n Cut back on caffeine and alcohol n Stop smoking n Develop healthy sleep patterns
6 NEWS www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
Four more primary schools to amalgamate - but council does not reveal which Exclusive
By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk Four more primaries are to amalgamate with neighbouring schools as Southwark Council fights to stabilise its crumbling primary education system, the News can reveal.
Despite this paper’s enquiries, Southwark Council would not say which schools are threatened, nor when the amalgamations would take place. The total number of schools set to amalgamate now stands at five, following last month’s announcement that Cobourg Primary School, Walworth, is to merge with Camelot Primary School, Nunhead. Southwark Council has recommended these changes to plug a £2.8 million funding shortfall and reduce the number of schools in a budget deficit, of which there were twelve as of January. The crisis of falling admissions is happening across London, and has been attributed to declining birth rates, covid-19, Brexit and regeneration. Primary schools get funding on a perpupil basis so, with rolls falling, schools have been left scrambling for cash. The council has also recommended that between six and seven primary schools reduce their pupil admission number (PAN) so undersubscribed
schools can their fill pupil vacancies. Once again, Southwark Council would not say which schools specifically. Parents are urged to enquire with their children’s schools on an individual basis. Southwark schools boss Cllr Jasmine Ali (pictured) said: “We know that change can be unsettling, that is why our education team will continue to be here to support teachers, parents and pupils through any changes as a result of this work. However, we expect the outcome of our strategy to be a positive one, and the best it can be, with schools in a strong position to continue to provide a superb education to children in Southwark. I can reassure everyone that we always put the best interests of children and their education first.” The schools crisis saga began in June 2022, when a bombshell council briefing paper revealed that sixteen Southwark primary schools were in financial crisis. That number has since fallen to twelve. Since then, Townsend Primary School, Walworth, has been earmarked for closure and St Francesca Cabrini, Nunhead, will close in September. To prevent the collapse of more primary schools, Southwark Council ratified its schools strategy in December last year. It outlined a policy of working with schools to manage their pupil admissions, and use amalgamations
and closures as a last resort. Southwark’s announcement that a flurry of schools will have to amalgamate is the product of that strategy. A Southwark Council spokesperson said: “We can now report that after a period of intense, meticulous and sensitive work with schools to assess the overall outlook for their future… it is recommended that four schools amalgamate with neighbouring schools and a further six to seven schools reduce their PAN.” Southwark Council has consistently refused to tell the News which schools are at risk of closure, saying it is down to the schools to make this information public. It argues that a premature announcement could disrupt individual schools’ plans, and prompt parents to remove their children, worsening depleted rolls. But parents often say that communication is lacking and that they are the last to find out that their children’s schools are at risk. Parents at Cobourg Primary School were furious last month when they received a letter saying the school was set to close having received no prior warning. In some instances children - some as young as seven - learned of the recommended closure before their parents did.
Mum Dion Gould, 42, whose child attended Cobourg, said: “They gave us short notice in terms of them deciding to make a decision to close the school. “I just feel they’ve done it so suddenly. Now we’re getting a letter saying we can no longer send our kids there. Nobody’s giving us any information.”
All school closures and amalgamations must follow a statutory consultation process before the cabinet makes its financial decision. This gives parents and other stakeholders a chance to share their views on the plans but, ultimately, Southwark Council gets the final say.
Mum Rachel Morgan, who backs the petition, said of the closure: “It’s awful… children run to the school because they are so happy to be there”. Cobourg Primary School teaches years reception to six and, unlike most inner London primary schools, sits on a picturesque site, in Burgess Park. But recent data shows the school has just 212 students, despite having a PAN of
390, leaving 178 vacancies. Parents have questioned whether Camelot students should move to Cobourg given the latter’s location in Burgess Park, which has had a revamp in recent years with improved landscaping and sports facilities. But a Southwark Council report shows that one of the reasons is Cobourg’s recent Ofsted reports.
It received a second consecutive ‘Requires Improvement’ judgement from Often in April 2022 whereas Camelot was awarded ‘good’ in its 2018 inspection. The report also says the school’s governing body did not appoint a substantive headteacher for more than five years making leadership “ineffective and inconsistent”. Local resident David Williams, 62, who
is friends with parents at the school, said Ofsted inspections were not “qualitative” and failed to recognise the positive environment teachers had created. A formal consultation process has now begun and parents will be invited to comment on the amalgamation proposal. If approved, the amalgamation would be at the end of the academic year on August 31, 2023.
Cobourg parents mount anti-merger petition to save idyllic school grounds By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk Determined parents have launched a petition to save Cobourg Primary School from amalgamation.
Southwark Council has begun its formal consultation on the merger with Camelot Primary School, 0.7 miles away in Peckham. But parents are aiming to get 10,000 people to sign their anti-amalgamation petition, which currently has 222 signatures. It’s the second petition they have launched after the parliament website rejected one on the grounds that the UK government is not directly responsible for school closures. It is unlikely that the change.org petition would result in any sort of statutory debate, but parents hope it will prompt the council to reconsider its plans. The petition reads: “Cobourg primary school is a safe, loving, caring and passionate school. Our children enjoy learning here and the staff are dedicated and passionate about their roles in ensuring our children have the best start in life and catering for all children’s needs. “It is a very good school in a very good and safe environment. If this plan goes ahead it will detrimentally impact on parents and children.”
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
Exclusive By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk Landlords who leave their second homes empty are set to see a £2.7 million spike in their council tax payments thanks to a possible change in the law.
Tax hike for second homeowners set to make millions for the council
Chief constable gets awarded for leading police during Queen’s funeral queue
will now push the government to allow local authorities to impose unlimited premiums on second and empty homes. If the law is passed, the council has vowed to use its increased revenue to “improve customer services for residents in council properties who are facing a crisis of disrepair”. In October last year, it professed a “zero tolerance” approach to empty housing in its ‘Empty Homes Action Plan’. The plan recommended using mechanisms that allow the council
This could increase council revenue by £2.7 million annually, based on the 2,457 empty homes recorded by Southwark last year and an average band D council tax of £1,104.77 to forcibly manage or own empty properties. These mechanisms include Empty
Dwelling Management Orders (EDMOs) and Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs).
New Canada Water apartments are being marketed to wealthy Singaporeans By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk Wealthy Singaporean house hunters are being wooed into buying luxury apartments in Canada Water by developer British Land.
A property exhibition for ‘The Founding’ residential block was held in Singapore earlier this month, with apartments priced up to £2,176,500. Lib Dem Cllr Victor Chamberlain described the advertising campaign as “a flagrant insult” to the 17,509 people on the housing waiting list. Responding, British Land said it was seeing “good levels of interest from potential local buyers” and that it is undertaking “a full advertising campaign in tube stations”. Forming part of British Land’s 46acre, £3.3 billion masterplan, ‘The Founding’ is a 186-flat, 35-storey block overlooking Surrey Water. It won’t be completed until autumn 2024 but Savills estate agents are already flaunting the flats to rich foreign buyers. In one article, the “expansive openplan homes” are described as having “meticulously curated” interiors, “breathtaking panoramic views” and roof terrace foliage “inspired by Ecuadorian rainforests”.
NEWS 7
©Paul Towsend
Under the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill, currently being debated by the Lords, councils would be able to increase council tax on second homes by 100 per cent. Anticipating the new law, Southwark Council vowed “to charge the highest possible rates of council tax on empty homes and second homes”, at council assembly on Wednesday, March 22. This could increase council revenue by £2.7 million pounds annually, based on the 2,457 empty homes recorded by Southwark last year and an average band D council tax of £1,104.77. Lib Dem Councillor Emily Tester, who helped table the motion, said: “Second homes are eating away our housing supply while we have 17,000 people on the housing waiting list. “The additional powers granted in the Levelling Up Bill are a small but meaningful step in the right direction as we attempt to undo the years of reductions in social housing in London and across the UK. “Our motion assures residents that these powers will be used, showing that the council is on their side, rather than the side of rampant developers.” Southwark Council already imposes 100 per cent premiums on owners of empty homes but currently has fewer powers to impose similar pressures on owners of second homes. Second homes are defined as properties that are unoccupied but substantially furnished. Southwark Council had previously lobbied for this change in the law and
www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
Jacqueline Wong, Executive Director of Residential Services at Savills Singapore, said: “Having been to Canada Water and understanding the masterplan, the potential uplift of the entire neighbourhood will be tremendous.” But the foreign advertising campaigns have angered Cllr Victor Chamberlain who said: “British Land is advertising ‘The Founding’ in Canada Water as ‘the next big thing for investors eyeing residential property in London’ at expos in China and Singapore. This is a flagrant insult to the thousands in our borough who cannot find a decent home.” Local resident Michele, who lives near ‘The Founding’ construction site, said: “When they [British Land] first come in and met me before the development started they said there’ll be opportunities for your son to get a place… but my son can’t afford nowhere round here. How are young people or families ever going to afford those prices?” A spokesperson for British Land told the News: “We have seen good levels [of] interest from potential local purchasers to date, and are working with local sales agents (who were first engaged before Christmas) to ensure interest garnered from the surrounding areas.” The spokesperson said that the 3,500 homes across the site would be 35 per cent affordable once completed and
Computer generated image of the Canada Water master plan
that Plot K1 has 100 per cent affordable homes. “Early off-plan sales of properties like those at The Founding ensure the
delivery of these affordable homes is viable to help us meet the area’s need for affordable housing, the spokesperson added.
By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk The chief constable who led the police operation around the Queen’s funeral last summer, which saw 250,000 mourners descend on Bermondsey, has received a Royal Victorian Order honour.
National Coordinating Gold Commander CC Lucy D’Orsi oversaw the policing for Operation London Bridge, which saw 2,600 officers escort processions, check bins for bombs, and protect public buildings. King Charles III awarded her the Royal Victorian Order honour, reserved for people who serve the monarch in a personal way. CC D’Orsi said: “I feel honoured to receive the Commander of the Royal Victorian Order. To be recognised for personal services to the monarch is something I will always cherish. “I am extremely proud of the preparation and delivery of the national policing for Operation London Bridge which was such a historic operation on a global stage. It showed the best of UK policing which was only possible due to the dedication and pride of those I am privileged to work with.” In Bermondsey, the Queen’s lyingin-state queue zig-zagged through Southwark Park for three miles and continued another 6.9 miles along the river to Westminster Hall. Police were on hand to help mourners, some of whom had to wait for over 24 hours to see Her Majesty at the queue’s longest stage. Officers from British overseas territories like Monserrat, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands were deployed to assist with ten days of the ceremonial events - the biggest UK police operation in history. Other people on the honours list include the RAF flight crew who transported the Queen’s coffin from Scotland to London, coffin bearers and senior managers from the household and government.
THIS EASTER AT THE UNICORN THEATRE Stiles & Drewe’s Musical
12 MAR - 23 APR
THE UK’STHEATRE FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES
A DELIGHT The Guardian
on Stiles and Drewe’s Three Little Pigs
Tickets from £9.5 For ages 3 - 7 The Tree Billie Goat's Gruff (Families Mag).indd 1
Music by George Stiles Book and Lyrics by Anthony Drewe
Performed by arrangement with Music Theatre International
10/03/2023 15:15
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
NEWS 9
Convicted: Obinna Obeta
Peckham man guilty of brokering organ harvest plot for rich Nigerian senator Jesse Rust’s mosaic
Sonia Ekwaremadu and the victim
Watch the video
nline
Convicted: Nigerian Senator Ekweremadu and wife Beatrice Nwanneka Ekweremadu
By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk A Peckham man has been found guilty of brokering an organ harvesting plot for a Nigerian senator which involved trafficking a poor Lagos street seller to the UK.
Fifty-one-year-old Dr Obinna Obeta, was found guilty of conspiracy to arrange the travel of another person with a view to exploitation at the Old Bailey last Thursday, March 23. Wealthy Nigerian Senator Ike Ekweremadu, 60, and his wife Beatrice Nwanneka Ekweremadu, 56, who both live in Abuja, Nigeria, were found guilty of the same offence. This landmark prosecution was the first of its kind under modern slavery laws in the UK. Leading investigating officer, Detective Inspector Esther Richardson, from the Met’s Modern Slavery and Child Exploitation team, said: “This conviction sends out a clear message across the world, the UK will not tolerate the international industry in illegal organ removal. “We could not have achieved this
conviction without the help of one man, the victim survivor. I commend him for his utmost bravery.” All three will be sentenced on May 5. The court heard how the plot was to provide a kidney to the Nigerian couple’s daughter Sonia Ekweremadu, 25, who fell ill while studying at Newcastle University in December 2019. It was alleged that three defendants had tried to convince medics at the Royal Free that the victim was Sonia’s cousin. Sonia was cleared of the same charge as her parents and remains on weekly dialysis with a debilitating illness. Jurors heard how Dr Obeta used a private medical company to arrange a visa for the 21-year-old victim to come to the UK to donate his kidney. After being brought to the UK on February 20, 2022, the victim stayed with Obeta at his Peckham address. The victim, who made a few pounds a day selling phone accessories from a wheelbarrow, believed he would earn money by working for the Ekweremadu family. But the court heard that, unbeknown to him, it had been arranged for him to provide a kidney at the Royal Free
southwarknews.co.uk Hospital in Hampstead Heath as part of an £80,000 private transplant that the Ekweremadus were funding. The court heard how it became apparent to the doctor carrying out the screening that the victim had limited understanding of why he was there. After several appointments, the victim realised he would be donating a kidney and the consultant noted the fear and panic this caused the victim, jurors were told. The victim said he returned to Obinna’s property but described how the mood had changed significantly and how he was treated as a ‘slave’. The victim then escaped the property, sleeping rough for around three days, before walking into Staines Police Station on May 5, 2022. A video of him walking into the station has been released by police and can be viewed on line. He reportedly told police: “I don’t know anywhere, I don’t know where I am. I was sleeping three days outside around, for someone to help me, save my life. The doctor said I was too young but the man said if you do not do it here he would carry me back to Nigeria and do it there.”
The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is now being safeguarded and the police are working closely with partners on future support. Detectives from Specialist Crime Command’s Modern Slavery and Child Exploitation Unit launched an investigation to understand how this vulnerable man had arrived in London. The court heard how Sonia’s father Ike Ekweremadu enlisted the help of his medically-trained brother, Diwe Ekweremadu, to search for a donor for his sick daughter in 2021. Diwe Ekweremadu, who remains in Nigeria, turned to former classmate Dr Obeta who had recently had a private kidney transplant at the Royal Free thanks to a Nigerian donor. The victim, who was known to Obeta’s donor, was recruited from a Lagos street market and provided with a passport and medical travel visa. The court heard that he underwent blood tests in Nigeria which he thought were necessary to get a visa but were instead to determine if he was a medical match to Sonia. Detectives obtained Obeta’s mobile phone, finding “extensive involvement” in the offence saying he recruited the
victim and communicated with him. They also discovered an application for a six-month visa for the victim. The application stated: “Senator Ike Ekweremadu is sponsoring my medical treatment to enable me to donate an organ to Sonia Ekweremadu in Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.” “I would be donating an organ to my closest cousin (Sonia) in appreciation for her sacrifices towards me, my family and community. I am willing to put my life on the line for her to live and continue her good service to humanity,” it also stated. Joanne Jakymec, Chief Crown Prosecutor, said: “This was an horrific plot to exploit a vulnerable victim by trafficking him to the UK for the purpose of transplanting his kidney. “The defendants showed utter disregard for the victim’s welfare, health and well-being and used their considerable influence to a high degree of control throughout, with the victim having limited understanding of what was really going on here.” On 21 June 2022, detectives arrested Ike and Beatrice Ekweremadu at Heathrow Airport. On 12 July 2022, Obeta was arrested at his home address.
BUILD A CAREER THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE. Become a police officer in London’s Met. With a starting salary of c.£33.5k. Ready for a new challenge? Looking for a career that offers a competitive salary from day one, whilst supporting you to build skills for life and make a positive difference? A career in policing could be for you. We are looking for people from all walks of life who live the Met’s values of professionalism, integrity, courage, compassion and respect to join us in making London a safer place. Whether it’s working with local communities, policing major events, or patrolling the Thames, being a police officer in the Met means discovering a satisfying career with roles and opportunities as diverse as our Capital. We’ll help you build on your skills and discover new strengths, while providing the support and training you need to prepare you for policing in London through one of our entry routes, including the opportunity to gain a fully funded degree through our Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship programme. Meet your local officers at one of our upcoming recruitment events to learn more about the Met, the role, get some help with your application and be part of the change.
5–6th April, 8–9th April 2023, 11am–4pm Morrisons, Canning Town, Silvertown Way, E16 1ED 27–30th April 2023, 11am–4pm Wood Green Library, High Road, N22 6XD
For more recruitment events, or to speak to a member of the outreach team visit www.met.police.uk/meet-our-recruitment-teams or scan the QR code.
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
NEWS 11
Peckham man set on making the fashion industry for all
By Isabel Ramirez
isabel@southwarknews.co.uk A man from Peckham, who bridged his own path into fashion and got a job at Burberry aged 19, is opening doors for others after finding out the industry is ‘still built on pillars of nepotism.’
Daniel Peters, 35, was born and raised in Peckham in a single-parent, working-class family. “My mum was born and raised in Peckham too and was a seamstress from home when I was growing up,” he said. He explained that seeing the ‘joy’ his mother would bring to people when she made them a garment was what drove his love of fashion. That said, he didn’t go on to study it right away. “I actually wanted to be a singer at first and got into the Brit School for performing arts - I was at school with Adele and Jessie J,” he said. But after he ‘fell out of love’ with music - Daniel decided to go down the fashion route after all. “I got a place at Fashion Retail Academy and then worked some retail jobs. “Because I was working four days a week, I was able to work for free one day a week to learn the craft. “I put into practice what I was learning at college and spent three months working with someone on the window displays at Selfridges.” It was here that he was recommended for a job at Burberry Head Office at just 19 with ‘zero experience’ in that role. “I ended up working there for four years, and even worked on producing the runway shows in London and Milan.” When he worked his way in, Daniel said
he quickly realised the door wasn’t open for everyone. “The fashion industry I was stepping into was a very white, privileged world,” he said, “and to keep it real, I’m not the expected accent or voice you would assume would come out of a black guy from Peckham. “I think that put me further ahead than counterparts who look similar to me.” And even then, he claimed this only got him so far - “I saw white candidates doing the exact same job as I was climbing the ladder a lot quicker, even though we were working at the same level.” He explained that a lot of the individuals he was surrounded by came from privilege and many were offered positions because of a family friend or a connection. “Even though that was 16-17 years ago – it still happens now,” he added. Daniel explained after seeing the barriers faced by many, he is keen to use his self-made connections to inspire and help people who may not have the chance otherwise. In 2020, Daniel set up the Fashion Minority Report (FMR) - an organisation which pushes for change in the industry. One thing they do is run workshops and mentoring programmes, for 18–28-yearolds, where they get professionals from big brands to mentor them one to one. “We don’t make our programme just about ethnicity, it’s for anyone who comes from a disadvantaged community, which includes lower-socio economic backgrounds. He explained they are now working with schools. Next month, they are taking students from Harris Academy in Peckham to meet with the organisers of London Fashion Week to introduce them
to a career in fashion. They also have a summer fashion school for ages 14-17. “It is free to attend and offers three days of hands-on learning experience led by ASOS.” he said. As well as providing opportunities, he is also ensuring changes are made from the top down: “we are primarily a consultancy aiming to increase diversity, so we work
with big brands to help them to become more inclusive.,” Daniel told the News. Last month, FMR released a magazine detailing the research they had done. Daniel said he hopes it will create a conversation around how the fashion industry has been built on the ‘pillars of nepotism’ for many years. He said it is through these conversations,
as well as their work with the wider community that they are ‘creating a shift to see some much-needed change.’ “It doesn’t happen overnight – but with our resources and greater understanding of the barriers, hopefully, this will happen.,” he said. To find out more go to __www.fashionminorityreport.com/
‘Swap don’t shop’: Peckham woman Jess finds a sustainable, cheap way to update your wardrobe By Isabel Ramirez
isabel@southwarknews.co.uk A woman in Peckham has found a sustainable way for people to get new clothes, where you can update your wardrobe for just ten pounds at one of her clothesswapping events.
Jess Brunt, 30, who lives in Peckham, said she set up her clothes-swapping business, Verte, to make it cheap and sustainable for people to update their wardrobes. “I was trying to solve a problem I had myself,” she said. “Having grown up in the era of fast fashion, I am really conscious of the damage overconsumption and waste is having on the planet. She explained she was determined to find a way to ‘extend the lifespan’ of clothes. “I tried to donate them to charity shops, but they couldn’t take them because they were over-run.”
With the rise of apps like Depop and Vinted, there are lots of ways to buy affordable second-hand clothes online but at Jess’ events, not only can people get new outfits, but they can get rid of their old items too to free up space. “This is a way for people to donate their old clothes to people who will use them,” she said. Jess said she launched the business in 2019 and now, she runs events all over London for clothes-swapping for all genders and even kids. This Saturday is a women’s event, taking place at Dovedales Bakery in Peckham. How does it work? Jess said you can either buy a ticket in advance for £10 or they are £15 on the day. “You can bring up to ten items of your unwanted clothes on the day,” Jess explained. She said you then get tokens based on what you bring - which you then use to shop.
“We work on a token system based on item quality, brand and condition. So basically, the better pieces you bring, the better the items you’ll walk away with.” The swap will run until 1 pm. Jess added: “Any tokens not used will be carried over for the next swap.” The event will take place at Dovedales Bakery, 24 Blenheim Grove, Peckham, SE15 4QL. Saturday April 1 from 10 am - 1 pm. Scan the QR code for a £10 ticket
12 NEWS www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
Cultural Events at The Blue Market:
Local People and Business Working Together to Build Stronger Communities. The Blue Market in Bermondsey is an excellent illustration of how local people and businesses can come together to build stronger communities and on March 25th, 2023, the market hosted yet another vibrant and attractive event, featuring Bermondsey based cooperative, The Castellers of London. The Castellers have been promoting the 200-year-old tradition of Castells, or human towers, at events throughout London since 2015 and captivated visitors to the market with their inspiring tower formations and interactive sessions for visitors to ‘have a go’ and join in the fun. The event was organised by Blue Bermondsey BID in partnership with Blue Market management, Big Local Works, as part of the Out of The Blue: Unheard Voices, Different Stories project supported and funded by Historic England, to explore the hidden multicultural heritage of the local area. Mayor of Southwark, Councillor Sunil Chopra and his Mayoress, came to visit and took the time to meet with Castellers president, Stephen ‘Cuss’ Anderson to find out more about the group, and visit the stalls to meet new market traders involved in the Blue Market’s startup trader’s initiative, and the established traders. The Butcher and Baker played their part by providing the extras to go along with the delicious Calçotada, a Catalan tradition of barbecued Calçots, a variety of Onion, served with traditional Romesco Sauce which was provided as part of the event for people to taste and try.
Visitors included people from all walks of life, including some families who had travelled from as far Portsmouth and Cambridge to join local people in the day’s festivities, which also included arts and crafts workshops. Jack Shah, chair of Blue Bermondsey BID was on hand to guide The Mayor and Mayoress throughout proceedings and highlight the importance of community involvement in building vibrant, prosperous neighbourhoods and the role of the BID in supporting this. Cuss told us, “It was great to meet the Mayor of Southwark, Councillor Sunil Chopra and perform at The Blue, where there is a strong focus is on building more community cohesion. The Castellers aren’t just about climbing, it’s about trusting your team, and building a new relationship with people. We are a diverse group of Londoners and community is key in what we do. Everyone’s role is important when it comes to Castellers, it is how we all fit together that counts”. If you would like to be part of the Castellers of London, weekly rehearsals are held every Sunday 3pm to 6pm at: the OBC, 3 Webb St, Bermondsey, London SE1 4RP. Its free to join.
Blue Bermondsey BID is a not-for-profit organisation funded and led by local businesses who are dedicated to benefiting all who are working in, living in or visiting the area. Visit www.bluebermondsey.co.uk to find out more about upcoming events and activities.
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
NEWS 13
fire blamed on Local entrepreneur has found a way to detect viruses glass doorknob early through sewage By Herbie Russell
By Isabel Ramirez
herbie@southwarknews.co.uk
isabel@southwarknews.co.uk
A fire in Dulwich was caused by sun rays reflecting off a spherical glass doorknob and igniting hanging clothes on Tuesday morning, the London Fire Brigade has said.
A camberwell business woman, who found a way to track viruses early through sewage, has received £50,000 to carry on her work.
They have now urged residents to keep glass, crystal furnishings and mirrors out of direct sunlight to avoid fires as “we head into summer and the sun gets stronger”. The fire damaged a first-floor bedroom in a semi-detached house on Underhill Road at around 9.50am on March 21. Fifteen firefighters and three fire engines from New Cross, Peckham and West Norwood stations had brought the blaze under control by 10.49am. One woman escaped the property before they arrived and there were no reports of any injuries. A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “These sorts of fires are not as rare as you would think. They can happen all year around, but as we head into summer and the sun gets stronger, it’s really important that reflective items such as mirrors, crystals and glass ornaments are kept out of direct sunlight.” The Brigade’s top three safety tips are: • Keep mirrors and crystal or glass objects away from the sunny sills. • Fit at least one smoke alarm per floor and test them every week to make sure they work and the batteries are not flat. • If you have a fire, close the door on the blaze, get out, stay out and call the Brigade.
Claire Trant, who lives in Lambeth, Cofounder & CEO of Untap, has developed a device that detects viral infection rates within communities without the need for lateral flow testing. The device uses PCR technology to test wastewater for viruses like COVID-19, influenza and Norovirus and can be used anywhere from schools to hospitals and workplaces for early detection. “Since covid, which is what we started with, immunity rates are low and Southwark has had some bad cases of norovirus in particular,” Claire said. Claire is one of fifty other women who have won Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation Awards - which is set up to award those who are developing novel solutions to major social, environmental and economic challenges. Each winner will benefit from a £50,000 grant, one-to-one business coaching, and a suite of networking, role modelling, and training opportunities. For Claire’s company, which is based in Camberwell, this money is funding their ‘biggest project yet.’ “The money we have received will fund two 3-month pilots in Southwark,” she said.
“The project will involve daily testing of collective sewage for flu and norovirus. “We want to find care homes or offices in the area that have had high rates of flu and norovirus.” She said surveilling sewage can act to show early warning signs for illness. So what’s next for this venture? “Our future is any virus. There’s a lot of fear when it comes to viruses out there. By showing people the early warning signs for viruses, we can either reassure people they have no virus or catch it early - which we hope will put people’s minds at ease,” Claire explained. She added that finding viruses early could also lead to smarter ways of preventing outbreaks. As well as calling out for people to take part in the upcoming study - set to take place in June, Claire said they are always keen to recruit women - “there is a lack of women in the field,” she said. “I’ve been working with women in STEM for a long time. The bottom line is: sewage tech is not sexy. But it’s so important. We’re really trying to recruit women.” The flagship Women in Innovation Awards is a key part of Innovate UK’s commitment to boosting the number of women entrepreneurs. Now in its sixth year, the competition drew a record number of 920 applications from women business leaders, 10% up from last year, reflecting the growing number of
Advertorial
women-led businesses in the UK (according to the Rose Review Progress Report 2023, 20% of all UK businesses are now led by all-women teams). Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation programme continues to support highpotential women business leaders from diverse backgrounds. With a passion to support underrepresented innovation talent, 22% of the winners are Black, Asian, or from another ethnic minority group and 12% have identified as disabled.
Indro Mukerjee, CEO of Innovate UK, said, “The Innovate UK Women in Innovation programme is an important part of our many activities to make a real difference to the talent and skills pipeline for UK business innovation by inspiring, involving and investing in greater diversity. I warmly congratulate all the Women in Innovation Award winners and look forward to keeping in touch as they progress.” To find out more about Untap at untapwater.com
Business process mapping & customer journey through Hybrid Legal CRM As law firms embrace the start of 2023, we know that helping your enterprises to map its business process and learn to deliver great customer care, is key to improving profitability.
to swich Lawyers if they need to and share more of their experiences. It places Lawyers in difficult position because at one hand, they are tasked to deal with the legal matter and the latter, their customer’s expectations.
Hybrid Legal CRM helping law firms improve on business process
Through Hybrid Legal CRM, we enhance the touchpoint with your customer,s through automation and creative thinking. For example, our matter workspace let’s you build an environment to manage their legal matter and in the same time, provide real-time experience. On the evidence & document’s upload platform, your customers can upload documents on real-time sharing and share notes.
The platform helps your firm build a business mapping process to improve on customer delivery and help to improve on profitability. How so? On the Hybrid Legal CRM, you would be able to build templates and create workflows, so that your team is consistently working through leads, and client case management in a process-led management. This allows your firm colleagues to ensure all lead funnels are managed, data is analysed to understand the source of the data funnel and how best the lead is used to turn into a transactional matter. By creating a business process mapping with our Hybrid Legal CRM, you can deliver real value to the business. It then helps you improve on your profitability by then analysing real-data. Hybrid Legal CRM helps you respond better to an ever-competitive legal field.
Collaborating with other Lawyers
creative email automations on both leads and also legal matters. It runs a flow to keep the customer engaged within your firm.
Email automations
The email templates are created within the Hybrid Legal CRM and then build sequences of events. It lets you send out emails at intervals which keeps customers engaged through their legal journey with your firm. Take a free trial with our Hybrid Legal CRM. Click to request an automated trial access https://hybrid.techics.com/Free-Trial.
Our Hybrid Legal CRM allows you to build
Did you know? A UK Government study
on customer interaction with businesses. Around 67% of customers want to get real-time data and 87% expect that Lawyers should keep them informed on their legal transactions. Putting your customer central to their touchpoint We know that almost all enterprises uses data to understand their customer’s touchpoint with their law firm. In an everdemanding legal field, customers are expecting more, complain more, looking
Hybrid Legal CRM can quickly collaborate with other Lawyers through our share case matter. Let’s you give access to another Lawyer, aspects of a customer matter in a controlled environment. Putting customers at the heart of our Hybrid Legal CRM helps us shape the platform to serve the purpose of delivering a product that works well for law firms. It drives efficiency, better business process and improve on profitability. Take control of your enterprise through our powerful Hybrid Legal CRM, but intuitive and easy to use. You can find more information at https://hybrid.techics.com.
14 NEWS www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
© BBC
The owner of a new boxing nline gym in Camberwell bags Lord Sugar’s £250,000 as the winner of BBC’s The Apprentice
Watch the video
southwarknews.co.uk
By Isabel Ramirez
isabel@southwarknews.co.uk A pECKHAM boxer turned entrepreneur is celebrating after winning the latest series of Lord Sugar’s The Apprentice.
Marnie Swindells, 28, was hired by the business mogul after an intense all-female final, despite never running a business before. Last month she opened her first new boxing gym in Camberwell, but on the show, she was appealing to open a second site. “Knowing how long it took to do this gym,
the £250,000 would really help speed up the process,” she told the News. Winning the show means she now has Lord Sugar’s investment to do just that, although it is not yet known where it will be based, Following the airing of the show, Marnie, who lives in Peckham, took to social media and appeared emotional as she addressed her followers saying: “I can’t believe it. I’m just trying to take it all in - this is some oncein-a-lifetime stuff that’s happening to me right now. “It’s easily the best time of my entire life.” Although he appeared to have some
App lets residents report graffiti, potholes and fly-tipping to Southwark Council
doubts over Marnie’s plans to build community-focused gyms, Lord Sugar said he chose her as he wanted to “try a new horizon”. She may have won the show, but goldmedal-winning boxer Marnie explained that she still plans to be involved in the gyms. “I’m hoping to be down there running some sessions so people can see the face behind the gym – I think that’s important, especially for women,” she said. Bronx Gym is open at Vicarage Grove, Camberwell, SE5 7LP. Go online to our website to see a video of our visit: southwarknews. co.uk or see it on our Tik Tok account.
By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk Residents can now report fly-tipping, graffiti and potholes through a ‘FixMyStreet’ app and online service.
People can use the programme, available on desktops, Google Play or the App Store, to send photos of street maintenance issues to Southwark Council. Cllr Catherine Rose, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks, Streets & Clean Air, said: “Our new online tool is the most direct way to report anything to us that needs fixing, cleaning or clearing on Southwark’s estates and streets. In a short few clicks, you can easily alert the council to an issue and receive an update once it’s been resolved.” Southwark Council said the platform
Antiques Roadshow is coming to Crystal Palace Park - here’s how to get free tickets isabel@southwarknews.co.uk
include dog fouling, damaged or overgrown plants, overflowing bins, damaged seating and planters, broken play equipment and e-bike or e-scooter obstructions. Angela Dixon, managing director at SocietyWorks, the company behind the platform, said: “We look forward to seeing residents and staff make use of the new system.” The new app comes after an East Dulwich mum created a similar app aimed exclusively at tackling dog muck. Lawyer Jenifer Swallow, 46, and her sons Thomas, 10, and Jacob, 11 created ‘Turd Alert’ because they were sick of stumbling across dog mess each time they left the house. You can download the FixMyStreet app from App Store or Google Play. Or visit www.report.southwark.gov.uk to report a wide range of problems.
Victorian lovers used to walk beneath a huge arch made of whalebone in Peckham © BBC
By Isabel Ramirez
has performed well in other boroughs, saving money, reducing response times and easing pressure on call centres. The News has asked how much it cost the council but it yet to receive a reply. Cllr Rose added: “We chose FixMyStreet Pro because it was the most user friendly street cleaning platform on the market. It takes away the stress of knowing who to contact at the council about issues we know our residents really care about, like fly tipping. We look forward to working with residents through FixMyStreet Pro to keep our streets cleaner, greener and healthier.” Each report is published on a map so residents can see which issues have been repaired and which haven’t. The system can also reroute reports meant for other authorities, like Transport for London. Other problems that can be reported
A postcard featuring the Whalebone Arch c.1906.
The popular BBC show Antiques Road Show, which has seen items from unsuspecting members of the public valued as high as £1 million, is coming to Crystal Palace Park and here is how locals can get free tickets.
On Sunday, June 4, Fiona Bruce and the Antiques Roadshow crew will be visiting Crystal Palace Park on their summer tour of the UK. This year, in addition to antiques and family heirlooms, the show is also keen to hear about more modern treasures – including “everything from retro toys to movie and music memorabilia, from midcentury furniture to vintage fashion, from designer handbags to rare trainers”. People can come to spectate or get involved by submitting an item for valuation. If you would like your item to be featured, the team are asking visitors to send in photos of the item(s) they would like to bring via the Share Your Story section on the BBC website.
By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk Did you know a 15foot high whalebone arch used to stand in Peckham Rye Park?
Go to lostintv.com and click on ANTIQUES ROADSHOW - CRYSTAL PALACE PARK, LONDON BOROUGH OF
BROMLEY to apply for free tickets. It will take place on Sunday, June 4 at Crystal Palace Park, Thicket Road, SE19 2GA.
People say it was located along the footpath which starts near the Park entrance in Homestall Road, and runs in a Westerly direction just inside the Park fence. It was said to bring good luck to all who walked beneath it (probably due to its resemblance to the ‘lucky’ wishbone of a chicken) and was popular with courting couples.
The arch was reputed to have been made from the famous whale known as the Gravesend monster, washed ashore in the Thames Estuary in 1859. It was said to have been 56ft long and to have weighed 45 tons. Sadly, by the mid 1940s the whalebone arches had become so brittle they had to be demolished. This article was originally published in The Peckham Society News (Issue 171, Winter 2022) and used information sourced from Lewisham Borough News, March 24, 1942.
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
NEWS 15
Can this right honourable gentleman stay? Exclusive
Vimal Pandya (left) and Neil Coyle (right).
By Herbie Russell herbie@southwarknews.co.uk Rotherhithe hero Vimal Pandya’s battle to stay in the UK has been mentioned in Parliament as MP Neil Coyle pushes for a debate on whether “exceptional circumstances” could override Home Office rules.
Vimal, 42, received royal recognition for supporting hundreds of families during the covid-19 pandemic but faces a return to India after an immigration tribunal ruled against him in January. The judge noted Vimal’s “selfless desire to help others” but concluded that he’d overstayed his visa. The UK had no policy of “treating individuals differently because of ‘good works’,” he said. Friends and neighbours were “devastated” by the decision and Vimal is expected to appeal. Speaking in the Commons last Thursday, March 23, the third anniversary of the first lockdown, Mr Coyle said: “During covid lockdowns, Vimal Pandya helped hundreds of local people across Rotherhithe with shopping, prescriptions and more. “The late Majesty the Queen recognised and commended his exceptional contribution but the Home Office refuses to do so, actually preventing him from regularising his staying in the UK by removing his passport.” He formally asked MP Penny Mourdant,
Watch the video
nline
southwarknews.co.uk Leader of the House of Commons, to provide “time to debate Vimal’s exceptional case for a local hero who has the gratitude of thousands of my constituents including me”. Ms Mourdant offered to raise the issue with the Home Office. Mr Coyle told the News: “I’ll take her up on the offer for her to raise it but I will also now seek a debate on ‘exceptional’ circumstances and Home Office rules to try and draw a focus on Vimal’s case.”
When the judge made his ruling in January, it looked like Vimal would be forced back to India, saddled with £24,000 in debt, twelve years after landing in the UK in 2011. This was despite his running a free delivery service from the Halai General Stores, in Rotherhithe, for elderly people cooped up indoors during lockdowns, which saw him receive a letter of thanks from the Queen’s lord lieutenant. Vimal first arrived in the UK on a student
visa but in March 2014, while part-way through his studies, he had to chaperone a seriously ill family friend to India. When he got back to the UK in April, border force agents told him his college had lost its right to sponsor students. They stripped him of his passport, making it very difficult for Vimal to apply to other colleges to get a student visa. But Vimal says they were often reluctant to accept photocopies even though those approved by the Home Office are allowed.
The judge accepted that “in practice many testing bodies were reluctant to allow individuals to sit tests without original documents”. Vimal’s right to remain came to an end in 2014 and, in January 2015, a judicial review to extend his stay was dismissed. From then until January last year, he worked at the Halai General Stores, in Rotherhithe, technically illegally, by which time he’d become regarded as a “pillar of the community”.
16 OPINION www.southwarknews.co.uk/letters
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
Comment
‘Time for radical change in our police service - they failed to listen and failed to act’
Kieron Williams
Southwark Council leader
O
ur city’s police force must change. That is the overwhelming conclusion of Dame Louise Casey’s report into standards and culture within the Met.
It was also my clear message to the force’s most senior officer, Commissioner Mark Rowley, when I met him last week. I know there are excellent police officers across our city. I’ve met many of them over the years and seen the hard work they do. But as Dame Casey’s report makes clear, those officers and our whole community are being let down by institutional racism, misogyny and homophobia within the Met. The force’s failings are set out in stark detail in the report. Much of the evidence comes direct from serving police officers, who describe the appalling abuse they themselves have suffered at the hands of their own police colleagues, and the failure of the force to do anything about it. As one serving officer told the inquiry “I am scared of the police. I don’t trust my own organisation”. The report is also clear this is not just about a few bad officers. It finds the Met also has toxic policies, practices and culture.
Do I think Commissioner Rowley is up to the job? The jury is out. His refusal to say the Met is institutionally racist, misogynist and homophobic - despite the overwhelming evidence in the report that it is - is deeply worrying. If he can’t see the problem how can he fix it? Black Londoners are routinely harassed by the police for no good reason. Black children are more likely to be strip-searched. The Met is failing women with inadequate support for victims of rape and domestic abuse. All too often the Met fails to treat homophobia as the serious crime that it is. Reading the report left me feeling deeply upset and angry. Upset by the awful accounts of children, young people, women and Black, Asian and LGBTQ+ Londoners who have been failed. Angry because the need for change has been made clear to the police for
decades, yet as the report says they have failed to listen and failed to act. That’s why I was so clear with the Commissioner when I met him that he must implement Dame Casey’s recommendations in full, and why I will be working with the Mayor of London and council leaders across our city to keep the pressure on the Met to reform. Do I think Commissioner Rowley is up to the job? The jury is out. His refusal to say the Met is institutionally racist, misogynist and homophobic - despite the overwhelming evidence in the report that
it is - is deeply worrying. If he can’t see the problem how can he fix it? I hope once he’s had time to absorb the recommendations he will implement them in full. If not, as Dame Casey herself concludes, the force will need a much bigger shake up. Last week I also met with our new police Commander for Southwark and Lambeth, Seb Adjei-Addoh. It was good to hear his strong commitment to change. I’ll be ensuring the police have a clear local plan to deliver that change in Southwark, alongside the comprehensive London wide action that is so urgently needed. As a council we will help. I know the Met cannot achieve the scale of change needed on their own. We are already working with them and local young people though our Youth Independence Advisory Group to train local police officers to help tackle and end discrimination. We will build on the successes and learning from that work to help the local Met change their culture more broadly. The Casey report also makes clear the need to rebuild neighbourhood policing, after it has been decimated
by cuts since 2010. It has been good to hear the Met commit to do this. Again the council will play our part too. This month we launched our new Antisocial Behaviour Task Force. With more community safety wardens. They will be working in key locations were Southwark residents tell us they feel unsafe to tackle crime and related issues. This comes on top of our expansion of our CCTV network with more cameras and more operators, our work up upgrade very street light in the borough and our investment in services to tackle domestic abuse. We all need to feel safe at home and on our streets. I’m determined that the council plays our part in making Southwark safer. However we need a police force we can depend on too. After decades of inaction, it is time for the Met to finally grasp the nettle and build the modern, fair and responsive police service Londoners need and deserve. The clock is ticking, and Sir Mark Rowley’s time to show he can make it happen is limited.
‘Labour councillors continue to feather their nests whilst cutting vital Social Service’ Victor Chamberlain Leader of the Southwark Lib Dems
S
even years ago, Southwark Labour made the bizarre and self-serving decision to introduce lucrative ‘loss of office payments’, known more commonly as ‘golden goodbyes’ to former Cabinet Members.
This scheme, the only one in the whole of the UK, baffled and insulted the residents of Southwark. Southwark Liberal Democrats have spent years demanding Labour stop these sleazy payouts that are even paid out when Cabinet Members have been forced to resign in scandal. We welcome Labour’s eleventh hour decision to scrap these wasteful, undeserved payouts, which was confirmed at this month’s full council meeting. Shamefully, at that same meeting, Labour demonstrated their stubborn commitment to looking after their own and being totally tone deaf in regards
to their members’ allowances scheme. Labour members unanimously passed a report recommending their own pay rise, just a month after raising council tax and cutting vital services in their 2023/24 budget. Over half of the Labour members in Southwark receive an addition ‘Special Responsibility Allowance’ on top of their standard member’s allowance. It’s quite right councillors are paid fair renumeration. Of course there is much important work to do in addition to the role of ward councillors. We must renumerate councillors appropriately, so a diverse range of colleagues (not just those who can afford to or have the time) can participate in the running of the council. But the culture of cronyism has grown out of control in Southwark and too many Labour councillors are being rewarded by the tax payer unnecessarily. Over the last 12 months, the chair of Southwark’s main scrutiny has been
paid the equivalent of £3,208 per meeting. That’s how much a premier league player makes. It’s embarrassing that Southwark Labour councillors are prepared to pay one of their own to mark their own homework and chair just eight meetings a year. Our local democracy is not fit for purpose. While services are being cut, deputy cabinet members have been offered a pay rise despite their contribution to the borough remaining entirely unclear and unaccountable. At full council Labour said they were giving pay rises to deputy cabinet members in order to “nurture talent”. I think the taxpayers of Southwark may be more than a little disturbed by the suggestion that their money is better used to groom a new generation of Labour politicians, rather than help people struggling in the cost of living crisis. The Liberal Democrat group
It’s embarrassing that Southwark Labour councillors are prepared to pay one of their own to mark their own homework and chair just eight meetings a year. Our local democracy is not fit for purpose. proposed a common sense amendment, reducing these additional allowances to rates far more appropriate to their responsibilities and saving the council £250,000 in the process. That money could have been used to reverse the cuts to numerous teams delivering services for the most vulnerable in Southwark. Of course councillors should be properly paid for their work, but
Labour’s inflated allowances are little more than them looking after their own. The feathers in their nests have piled up so high they can no longer see how out of step they are with the feelings of residents. Eventually, just like with their golden goodbyes, they will be forced to put an end to this ‘jobs for mates’ culture. We just have to hope it doesn’t take another seven years.
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.southwarknews.co.uk/letters
OPINION 17
Second home tax premium long overdue
S
outhwark Council’s new powers to charge a 100 per cent council tax premium on second homes is a huge step in the right direction. It will allow the council to invest more in its current housing stock and could put more homes on the market by forcing second homeowners to sell up. In our article, we make a conservative estimate that the council could make over £2.7 million from the change but it could be even more than that. Local politicians have told the News that second homes in Southwark are often in some of the borough’s most affluent areas, meaning they are frequently in higher tax bands. The speed with which local authorities across the UK have backed the law change is testament to its necessity. But Southwark Council is the first to admit there is more work to be done, particularly around empty homes. Empty dwelling management orders (EDMOs) and compulsory purchase orders (CPOs) are both tools the council can use to requisition unused properties. But currently, neither housing need nor community impact are considered legitimate reasons for pursuing EDMOs or CPOs. This needs to change and government legislation is necessary to do so. After all, in spite of all the new residential developments being built, the housing system will remain a quagmire while perfectly good homes stand empty.
Make sure your e-bike charger is safe
T
he tragic story of Sofia Duarte, who died in an Old Kent Road fire caused by a converted e-bike, is a difficult read.
We send our deepest condolences to her mum, Maria Frasquilho Macarro and commend her efforts to warn people about the dangers of e-bike chargers. The London Fire Brigade said there was no evidence of poor installation on the bike, and perhaps the details of what caused the fire will only become apparent in the coroner’s inquest. E-bike batteries hold a huge amount of power, and as such could be fire risk if they overheat - hence TfL banning them on transport. But on top of this, the fact that the market is flooded with cheap, faulty chargers, is deeply troubling. Martyn Allen, technical director of Electrical Safety First, previously described the government’s inaction as a “scandal” and it’s hard to disagree. Online retailers who sell dangerous chargers must be held accountable for their actions whether it be through crippling fines or revoked licences. Some have suggested targeting the people who purchase these chargers but this would never work. Not only is it difficult for buyers to know when a charger is faulty, but can we also blame consumers for buying the cheapest products, especially during a cost-of-living crisis? E-bikes and e-scooters are here to stay, especially as Sadiq Khan presses ahead with his ULEZ endeavours. More must be done to ensure they are as safe as they can possibly be.
Southwark News, Copy size – 131mm wide by 169mm high, March 2023
SMITHFIELD MEAT MARKET
Europe’s largest meat market right on your doorstep
Top quality meat at unbelievable prices poultry • game • pork • lamb • beef offal • sausages • bacon • halal • provisions Open to the trade and the public all year round Midnight to 7am Monday to Friday mornings (Excluding Good Friday and Easter Monday) Nearest Underground stations - Farringdon or Barbican. Car parking for customers in the West Smithfield car park, EC1A 9DS
cryptic Puzzle Clues Across 4 Take exception to something (6) 8 Beg the wretch to get some knowledge (7) 9 Alarm at being right in the battle (6) 10 Acted as if they had given a preliminary treatment (9) 11 Does one usually start to age about a fever? (4) 13 Caught sight of about five? Or more? (5) 14 Cultivates the soil, disregarding the dangers (7) 16 Conscience can produce knowledge without study (7) 18 A banquet is produced quickly round the east (5) 19 We hear they listened to the crowd (4) 21 Does every shopkeeper deal in the slave market (9) 22 Fame about a spoken part of speech? (6) 23 Sticks together about fifty drawings (7) 24 Get rid of the humbug, and pour off the wine (6)
Clues Down 1 Mere upset before sound gentlemen coming out (9) 2 Gave food round the second and praised the whole (9) 3 Case which gives you a chance to branch out? (5) 5 The board will lose nothing in locking for a poet (4) 6 Take your future wife into your employment? (6) 7 Names held by champions (6) 9 Wild fear about the left (5) 11 The period to sit in very wretched conditions (9) 12 The world parliament generally is behaving in a strange way (9) 15 A thickskinned nut (5) 16 One way in which the red has divided (6) 17 Smooth ninetynine can give a contrary meaning (6) 20 I am in business for perfection (5) 21 Castor for one (4)
Quick Puzzle Clues Across 4 Grasscutting implement (6) 8 Seaman (7) 9 Decorous (6) 10 Baking dish (9) 11 Blessing (4) 13 Expiate (5) 14 Solicit (7) 16 Method of calculating by symbols (7) 18 Dazzling light (5) 19 Couple (4) 21 Type of beetle (9) 22 Suffocated (6) 23 Dissimilar (7) 24 Calls forth (6)
Clues Down 1 Spider (9) 2 One with a different opinion (9) 3 Gay (5) 5 Restore to health (4) 6 Walk stealthily (6) 7 Wandering (6) 9 Uses vigorously (5) 11 Earthmoving vehicle (9) 12 Exclusion from society (9) 15 Think deeply (5) 16 Fierce Indian (6) 17 Male escort (6) 20 Coil of yarn (5) 21 Give up (4)
Solutions to last week’s crossword Cryptic PUZZLE
225 Central Markets, London EC1A 9LH Tel: 020 7248 3151 Email: info@smithfieldmarket.com
www.smithfieldmarket.com
Across: 1 Cocktail 4 Chap 8 Aboard 10 Defray 11 Repel 12 Asset 14 Notice 17 Entrusted 18 Diameters 22 Coolie 23 Inset 24 Sneer 26 Result 27 Sagely 28 Sale 29 Deceased Down: 1 Crab 2 Choose 3 Turret 5 Horrid 6 Payments 7 Helot 9 Detriment10 Densities 13 Snail 15 Tears 16 Discerns 18 Dorsal 19 Aisle 20 Enrage 21 Severs 25 Dyed
Quick PUZZLE Across: 1 Cauldron 4 Seem 8 Entrap 10 Siphon 11 Dupes 12 Order 14 Coping 17 Symphonic 18 Introduce 22 Nugget 23 Erect 24 Nears 26 Evaded 27 Silage 28 Snap 29 Deterred Down: 1 Chew 2 Utters 3 Diadem 5 Ethnic 6 Managing 7 Bison 9 Purported 10 Seconders 13 Dying 15 Piece 16 Keenness 18 Iguana 19 Tenet 20 Ursine 21 Eclair 25 Mend
18 NEWS www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
12 things to do with the kids this Easter in south London Mum Beyhan Tarhan with her four-year-old son Bedihali
Here’s a list of things to do with the kids when they’re off school to keep everyone happy this Easter - including meeting fluffy animals, easter egg hunts and a variety of fun, family shows
1. See the fluffies at city farms
Farms are never as charming as they are in springtime when each pen, field and nest is home to fluffy newborns. You don’t have to travel to the countryside to see some farm favourites either – not when Vauxhall City Farm is nestled in south London. The farm offers meet-and-greet vouchers, letting those aged four and up pet rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens, and those upwards of seven stroke goats, lambs, pigs, alpacas and more. Vauxhall City Farm, 165 Tyers Street, London SE11 5HS. Tuesday - Sunday, 10:30 am - 4:30 pm. Admission: £30 for a 20-min meetand-greet for two people - otherwise donations on entry. vauxhallcityfarm.org Surrey Docks Farm is also open every day during Easter (including bank holidays) and is free to visit. They have fluffy rabbits and guinea pigs, along with lots of other animals - plus two new calves as an extra sight for visitors to see. Surrey Docks Farm, Rotherhithe St, South Wharf, London SE16 5ET. Monday - Sunday, 10 am - 4 pm. Admission: Free. surreydocksfarm.org.uk
Admission: £12. peckhamlevels.org
3. Dive underwater with The Singing Mermaid
If you’ve got primary school-aged kids, there’s a good chance The Singing Mermaid is one of their favourite reads. Bringing Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ beloved book to life this Easter Holiday is Wimbledon’s Polka Theatre. Through music, puppetry and storytelling, the show takes little audiences underwater to meet a mermaid, who has been lured into the circus by the promise of an exciting life, only to find it isn’t what she expected – and she might need some help getting away. Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, London SW19 1SB. March 31 - April 8, performance times vary. £10 - £18. polkatheatre.com
4. Go to a sensory concert
2. Book club for ages 5 and under At Peckham Levels’ Moon Bear Book Club, parents and tots are invited to celebrate classic stories through messy play, crafts and sensory fun. Each week, a new book is explored in a session run by a qualified primary school teacher. Your little one will join a group book reading before taking part in some planned activities designed to help develop their motor skills and communication. Suitable for ages 6 months – 5 years. Peckham Levels, Centre Carpark, F1-F6, 95A Rye Ln, London SE15 4ST. April 14, 10:45am - 11:30am.
One for relatively new parents who are feeling nostalgic about their nights spent tearing up the dancefloor: Groove Baby is coming to your rescue, presenting a grown-up concert your little one (aged 5 or under) can dance along to. Expect funk, jazz and electronic soundscapes as this sensory dance hall is lit up by bespoke animations. Groove Baby’s concerts have been selling out since 2013, so you’ll want to nab your tickets in advance. Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX. April 8, 11 am & 2:30 pm. Admission: £12/£9 child. southbankcentre.co.uk
5. Visit the Spring Fair at the Horniman
A carousel of fun awaits at the Horniman Spring Fair this Easter weekend. In a garden decorated with bunting
designed by local schools, look forward to a programme of live music, crafting, competitions, rides and even cooking demonstrations. Little ones can get their face painted and those good with their fingers can take part in the Spring Bonnet Parade and competition. If it all gets too much, peel off and take a tour of the Horniman gardens. Horniman Museum, 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ. April 8, 10:30 am - 4:30 pm. Admission: £2.50 (Ages 3-16), £5 (Adults), Under 3’s (Free). horniman.ac.uk
6. Watch The Three Billy Goats Gruff live at Unicorn Theatre
Come and step into the magical, fairy-tale world of The Three Billy Goats Gruff in this perfect first musical for young families. Baby, Middle and Big are three very hungry goats, and there is absolutely no grass left to eat on their side of the valley. Come on their adventure as together with Little Bo-Frilly they hatch a plan to cross the bridge to the lush green grass on the other side, they just need to outwit that horrible tricksy troll first. Directed by Justin Audibert, with music from award-winning composers Stiles and Drewe. Suitable for ages 3-7. Unicorn Theatre (Weston), 147 Tooley St, London SE1 2HZ Sun 12 Mar - Sun 23 Apr Under 18s £10 - £18 / Adults £13 £26.50 unicorntheatre.com
7. See the Easter Bunny in Castle Square This Easter
Castle Square is hosting a free event for families, with face painting, workshops and an appearance from the Easter Bunny. There will be an Easter treat hunt and visitors can ‘find the Easter Bunny’ to be in with a chance of winning discount vouchers to redeem at the nearby shops. Throughout the day there will be activities and workshops for the whole family to get involved in, including face painting and Easter Egg decorating workshops, which can be taken away. Local groups will put on a range of performances, including UpSideDown Dance Academy, School Dance Talentos and the Elephant and Castle Community Choir. Castle Square, 40 Elephant Road, SE17 1EU. April 8 from 11 am – 5 pm. Free.
8. Hunt for eggs at Borough Market
Children can take part in the Big Borough Market Easter Egg Hunt where the first 50 children to complete the trail each day will receive chocolate treats from the Market’s trader So Chocolicious. There is also a ‘Colours of Borough Market’ treasure map along with free colouring pages and pencils available from the Borough Market Store – ideal for younger children. On Thursday 6 and Friday 7 April, children can enjoy free face painting at Market Hall. Big Borough Market Easter Egg Hunt 4-8 April, 11 am - 3 pm. Borough Market, 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL - open daily from 10 am - 5 pm (closed Easter Sunday and Easter Monday). Admission: Free. boroughmarket.org.uk
9. Create your own show and perform it live at Blackheath Halls
This Easter, help to create your very own show based on the theme of ‘rain or shine’ and experience the excitement of performing live on our Great Hall stage at Blackheath Halls. Led by industry professionals from the West End and beyond, enjoy five full days of singing, dancing, theatre-making, creating, devising and stagecraft. Make friends, gain confidence and much more. This project is presented jointly by Blackheath Halls and the Trinity Laban Musical Theatre Department, which has developed an unrivalled reputation for its creative and dynamic performance training which has led to many graduates working in London’s West End and across the globe. Suitable for ages 8-16 (no audition necessary). Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Rd, Blackheath, London SE3 9RQ. April 2 - April 6, 10.00 am - 4.00 pm. Course Fee: £140 for 5 days (£28 per day). blackheathhalls.com
10. Learn to read and write music
Kids can learn to ‘read, write and love music’ with keyboard classes across venues in south London. Funky Monkey’s keyboard workshops teach kids to read, play and write notes C-A alongside learning keyboard techniques and countless music-based activities.
For ages 4-8: The ‘Funky Chicken’ Easter Workshops All 10 am - 1:30 pm April 3rd: Streatham, SW16 3PY. April 6th: Herne Hill, SE24 0BS. Admission: £40 for 1 child, £30 for subsequent siblings. For ages 5-9: The ‘Keyboard Superstars’ Easter Workshops April 11- 14 from 10 am - 1.00 pm every day. Herne Hill, SE24 0BS. Streatham, SW16 3PY. 4 days, £109, £90 for subsequent siblings. funky.monkey.info
11. Head down to Greenwich Kid’s Theatre Festival
A much-loved highlight of the venue’s annual programme since it launched in 2007, the latest edition features lots more performances and a selection of workshops to keep your youngsters engaged and fulfilled throughout the Easter Holidays! The festival kicks off on April 1st with The Ministry Of Science – a Greenwich Theatre debut by Mark Thompson Productions – about the ingenuity of boffins who have helped shaped our world. For those who like their science with bangs, this is definitely for you. Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, Greenwich, London, SE10 8ES. April 1 - 16. Admission: £10-£15.50. greenwichtheatre.org.uk
12. Go to a show at Southbank
This Easter, Southbank presents: Marty and the Party - an accessible, fun performance designed for children aged 2-6. “Marty is heading to the best party there has ever been in the history of ever. Follow them there for an adorable, cheeky show about fun, friendship and finding your groove.” Southbank ensures their shows are accessible and meet different needs, so the morning performance on April 8 is Sensory Adapted - meaning it has lower levels of lighting and sound effects, so may be especially suitable for audiences with sensory sensitivities. This may include those with neurodiverg ence such as autism, learning difficulties or other sensory or communication needs. Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 8XX Fri 7 Apr 11 am and 2.30 pm. Sat 8 Apr 10.30 am, 1 pm and 3.30 pm. Admission: Adult £12, Child £9 * southbankcentre.co.uk
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
what’s on
www.southwarknews.co.uk/arts
ARTS 19
in Southwark
Docks Fit For The Future
Dock An RNLI lifeboat exits South Dock Marina
‘Dock Life Renewed - How London’s docks are thriving again’ is a collection of photographs by Niki Gorick that show how the docks, which were once the lifeline that connected London to the rest of the world, have recovered from their 70s demise and subsequent decade of desolation, writes Michael Holland.
Thankfully, Dock Life Renewed does not revisit those old tales of the ‘good old days’ of overworked and underpaid dockers and stevedores risking life and limb in a dangerous industry to put food on the family table. It has all been done before. With Gorick’s background in photography, a foreword by Michael Heseltine, the former Tory MP who was at the vanguard of the London docks’ redevelopment, and an introduction by Matt Brown (Londonist), you get a book that is not looking back with mundane before-and-after images, but a book that shows the docklands now. None of the contributors has ever lived within a working dock community where the whole area survives on the employment the docks and associated concerns give to the locals, and have never had to witness seeing the heart ripped out of that community when the docks and all the businesses who depend on them curl
up and die. It is not their job to look back but to embrace the new dock life and the future ahead - The new docklands that are more about lifestyle than commerce. In reality, very little of the old docks still exist. What was retained was basically to be a water feature for the rich newcomers to look at, rather than for any importexport kerfuffle, and very nice they are too, with ample room to skim around on a paddleboard, or a kayak, and even a small sailboat. Gorick catches them all, plus, with a glorious 21st-century backdrop of dramatic skyscrapers and billionaires’ superyachts. But, more importantly, she has caught the thriving, though much less crucial, community of boat dwellers, and the small businesses that serve that community. And Dock Life Renewed also educates. Who knew that the small houseboats in the various marinas needed 5-year checks required by the Port of London Authority(PLA)? Marine surveyors are continually checking hulls for signs of degradation and potential leaks, while generations of skilled artisans continue to pass on their boat-repair skills. Landlubbers could live their whole lives ignorant of dock gates and locks needing to be maintained, and water levels having
to be kept up. Gorick has captured all the various maintenance and refurbishment jobs being carried out, snapping people busy at work: Patagonian sisters who create upholstery and boat covers; Bill and Phil the welders both in their 70s; Rebecca making bespoke furniture; Nick and his apprentice Frances taking on marine carpentry jobs… All the right people are there to keep the residents and their boats afloat in these water-based communities that seem a world away from their urban surroundings. And there are ample images of people at rest and at play: local schools kayaking; windsurfing students; Paddleboarding yoga groups and floating hot tubs. Even though the London docks died in their former guise, the remaining waterways and their current usage remain as a permanent reminder that docks were once there, and Niki Gorick’s Dock Life Renewed proves that what came to a sad and quite devastating end for many people has been reinvigorated to come back in another form that fits the future. Out April 4th. RRP £30 Now available for pre-order: www. unicornpublishing.org/page/detail/docklife-renewed/?k=9781911397311
Operation Mincemeat is now operation West End The greatest phenomenon in the theatre world in recent times has been the shooting star success of Operation Mincemeat, a musical, perhaps, with the most unlikely topic, that is wrapped up in an evening’s worth of silliness and fun, writes Michael Holland...
Operation Mincemeat, written and composed by David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts, who form SpitLip, first saw their show in a short run at the New Diorama Theatre in 2019. Southwark Playhouse then took the baton and ran with it between lockdowns in 2020, 2021 and 2022 before the show enjoyed an extended run at Riverside Studios. Their award-winning production is now gearing up for its first West End run. I got to talk to SpitLip (named after accidentally spitting over each other when performing), who also star in their show, to find out how this out-of-control success has affected them. I am pleased to report that they are still full of silliness and fun. Dave, Tash and Zoë, have been writing together for over a decade, making comedy horror theatre shows, and working with Felix for another seven years. As SpitLip they have been writing Operation Mincemeat for about five years, always amending and supplementing their original script as they step up to bigger, better venues. David tells how he met Tash and Zoë at Warwick University, while Tash was also in a band with Felix. Through various projects, alongside completing their degrees, they somehow came together to
form SpitLip. Operation Mincemeat is the hilarious and unbelievable true story of a secret mission that helped us win World War Two by using a corpse with ‘secret plans’ in its pocket to fool Hitler. I wanted to know who thought an odd military mission would make a good musical. “Yeah, I’ll have to take the blame for that one,” admits Natasha. “It is surely the most boring premise in the entire world but we knew that we wanted to write a musical based on a true story to kind of give us a bit of a leg up with the characters and the story. so we didn’t have to do any of that because we’re lazy… I was on holiday with my family and I was complaining about the fact that we hadn’t found anything yet. My brother took out his headphones and said, “I’m listening to a podcast that should be a musical”. I tried to protest that it’s not as easy as that. But it turned out that it was a Stuff You Should Know podcast on Operation Mincemeat and I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I listened all the way through, didn’t stop, ignored my family for the rest of the holiday and sent it immediately to SpitLip with an apology for the fact that I was pretty sure we were going to have to write a musical about World War Two.” Did you know it was a hit when you wrote it? “We knew that the audience found bits funny,” begins David, “which is the joy of writing and the horror of writing comedy as you very much know how well it’s going when you’re performing it. We just feel very lucky that people want to keep coming back
and enjoy the show. As to whether we knew it was a hit, I think we hoped we were on the right track and hopefully we still are.” Felix emphasises that “We are still very much focussed on Operation Mincemeat.” With each transfer there is a process of “rethinking and redesigning and rejigging the show”, says Natasha. There is also the added bonus of more budget to work with. “It’s amazing to kind of realise all the stuff that we never quite managed to realise with the previous versions. But we feel like the heart of the show and the spirit of the show is very much the same. At the core it’s the show it always was, it just, hopefully, looks a bit prettier than it did before,” she adds. The reason for not writing a new show right now is because, as Natasha points out, “We really want to finish this one and I think working on something else would do a disservice to this show. Like, we’re very aware that we’ve got one big chance here that we feel incredibly lucky and like jammy bastards to even have a shot at doing a West End show. To focus on anything except Operation Mincemeat right now – if it was then a terrible disaster, we don’t want to be able to turn to each other and go, “Damn it, it’s because we were working on another musical” - We want all our guns blazing on this one so there’s no excuse.’ Fortune Theatre, Russell Street, LondonWC2B 5HH . Dates: 29th March – 8th July. Times: Monday to Wednesdays at 7.30pm; Thursday to Saturdays at 8pm; Tuesday and Saturday Matinees at 3pm. £19.50-£79.50 www.operationmincemeat.com
20 NEWS www.southwarknews.co.uk/news
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023 ADVERTORIAL
www.selondonics.org/ in-your-area/southwarkpharmacy-first-scheme
Pharmacy First ss scheme
Pharmacy First common illne
www.southwarknews.co.uk FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS / CLASSIFIED 21
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
Classified
Wanted Records ROCK, POP, PUNK, INDIE, REGGAE, SOUL...
LPs AND SINGLES - WHOLE COLLECTIONS WELCOME
Call: 07956 832314 / 020 8677 6907 Or Email: vinylwanted@aol.com
• Learning Disabilities Service • Youth Adventure Project • Starfish, Domestic Abuse Project
www.bedehouse.org Tel: 0207 237 3881 A local charity supporting our neighbours in Southwark since 1938 Registered charity number: 303199 Registered company number: 420386
WANTED
CARS + VANS ANY CONDITION ANY AREA PROMPT & POLITE SERVICE TELEPHONE
020 8659 8988 ANY DAY, ANY TIME, 7 DAYS MOBILE
07850 323 508 CLASSIC & UNSUAL CARS ALSO WANTED
Table Top Sale Sat 1 Apr 2023, 11.00am-1pm ScotsCare is here to help and support Scots and their families in Greater London
If you are a charitable or community-oriented organisation and want to let people know about your services, please call 0207 232 1639
family announcements
Birthday
Memorial
Clothes, Toys, Babywear, Books, vinyl (records) & non chart cds and much more.
Rachel Leigh Community Hall 32 Andrews Walk, John Ruskin Street, London SE17 3JQ
www.scotscare.com
Tables for hire £5 & £7 each Email: b2socialclub@gmail.com Tel or text 07581 134586 9.30-11.30am Text 07355 918229 or Call after 6pm
to speak with a case worker to see how we can assist you.
Refreshments on Sale
To an amazing Wife, Mum & Nan
In loving memory of
Andy Shelley who passed away on 31/03/2020
We want to wish you the
happiest 60th birthday Love Your husband, children & grandchildren xxx
Love and miss you always love from Nora, Andrew, Michelle, Kevin and all your grandchildren and great grandchildren
Our services include: Financial Support | Advocacy | Counselling | Sheltered Housing | Homelessness | Job Coaching | Social Events | Volunteering To find out more, visit or call
0800 652 2989
Registered Charity No.207326
CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH
Making life better:
CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH
ALSO INTERESTED IN NON CHART CD COLLECTIONS
22 PUBLIC NOTICES www.southwarknews.co.uk
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.southwarknews.co.uk
PUBLIC NOTICES 23
LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK
LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (CYRENA ROAD, HARRIS STREET, BRAMCOTE GROVE)
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (COLLEGE ROAD, DUNSTANS ROAD, GOODRICH ROAD, ATHENLAY ROAD, IVYDALE ROAD, CADIZ STREET, WINCHESTER WALK, LOMAN STREET, GUILDABLE MANOR STREET)
(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC)
(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC)
1.
The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable various works to be carried out, it intends, to make, an order, the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.
1.
2.
Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload at any time in:
The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable various works to be carried out, it intends, to make, an order, the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.
2.
Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload at any time in:
(a) Cyrena Road, between Whateley Road and Silvester Road (b) Harris Street, between No’s 1 – No’s 23 Bernard Myers House to it’s blocked end (c) Bramcote Grove, between Varcoe Road and Barkworth Road 3.
The alternative route for affected traffic (2a) Whateley Road, Landcroft Road, Silvester Road, Crystal Palace Road. (2b) not applicable (2c) as indicated by the signs displayed
4.
Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.
5.
The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.
6.
The works will be in operation for (2a) 11th – 29th April (2b) 11th – 12th April (2c) 10th April – 22nd May
7.
Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk
Dated this 23rd March 2023 Ian Law Traffic Manager London Borough of Southwark Network Management Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) 6455/00226613-00000025-Lanes (2b) 6492/12456-4-ClearView (2c) 6400/49876669-UKPN
Notice of Application for a Premises Licence made under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003 Please take notice that I / we Maria Jose Bucheli Cordonez Have made application to Southwark Council for a new Premises Licence in respect of Koma Ltd, 326 Walworth Road, London, SE17 2NA
3.
The alternative route for affected traffic (2a) Kingswood Drive, College Road, South Circular Road, South Croxted Road. College Road, Kingswood Drive, Dulwich Wood Park, College Road, Crystal Palace Parade. (2b) Hillcourt Road, Underhill Road, Upland Road. Upland Road Crebor Road. (2c) Upland Road, Crebor Road, Dunstans Road. (2d & 2e) Ivydale Road, St Asaph Road, Gibbon Road, Kimberley Avenue, Nunhead Lane, Peckham Rye, Cheltenham Road, Ivydale Road. Walworth Place, Bronti Close, Blackwood Street, Date Street. (2g) as indicated by the signs displayed (2h) Sawyer Street, Pocock Street, Blackfriars Road, Union Street. Great Suffolk Street, Pocock Street, Sawyer Street (2i) via London Bridge Street, Borough High Street.
4.
Guildable Manor Street will be made ‘two-way’ for access and egress purposes as necessary
5.
Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.
6.
The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.
7.
The works will be in operation for (2a) 17th April (2b) 19th April (2c) 19th April (2d) 20th April (2e) 20th April (2f) 18th – 19th April (2g) 13th – 14th April (2h) 17th – 21st April (2i) 17th – 21st April
8.
Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk Dated this 30th March 2023
The relevant licensable activities and proposed times to be carried on, or on from the premises are Days
Start time
Finish time
The supply of alcohol:
Monday to Thursday & Sunday Friday & Saturday
12:00 12:00
22:00 02:00
The provision for regulated entertainment
Thursday & Friday
17:00
22:00
The provision of late night refreshment:
Friday & Saturday
23:00
02:00
Opening hours:
Monday to Thursday & Sunday Friday & Saturday
07:00 07:00
22:00 02:00
A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also available on our website at http://app.southwark.gov.uk/licensing/licenseregister.asp It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above (or by email via licensing@southwark.gov.uk) and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below. Note: It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale. Date of application: 14th March 2023
(a) College Road, between No’s 120 – 122 (b) Dunstans Road, at it’s junction with Goodrich Road (c) Goodrich Road, at it’s junction with Dunstans Road (d) Athenlay Road, between Bellwood Road and Merttins Road (e) Ivydale Road, between Merttins Road and Athenlay Road (f) Cadiz Street, at it’s junction with Date Street (g) Winchester Walk, between Cathedral Street and Stoney Street (h) Loman Street, at it’s junction with Great Suffolk Street (i) Guildable Manor Street, at it’s junction with London Bridge Street
Ian Law Traffic Manager London Borough of Southwark Network Management Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) 26400125-conway (2b) 30707532-conway (2c) 62700815-conway (2d) 35425298-conway (2e) 57859776-conway (2f) 31688542-01-thames (2g) SA554459-lanes (2h) VORBLOCK495LOMAN- Vorboss Civils (2i) FWI2273-DGR-CIVIL-Vodaphone
Notice of Application for a Premises Licence made under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003 Please take notice that I / we Eastern Bloc Peckham Ltd Have made application to Southwark Council for a new Premises Licence in respect of Unit 7, Market Peckham, 133a Rye Lane, SE15 4BQ The relevant licensable activities and proposed times to be carried on, or on from the premises are Days
Start time
Finish time
The retail sale of alcohol:
Monday to Sunday
12:00
22:00
The provision for regulated entertainment
Playing of recorded music Monday to Sunday
12:00
22:00
Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday
12:00
22:00
A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also available on our website at http://app.southwark.gov.uk/licensing/licenseregister.asp It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above (or by email via licensing@southwark.gov.uk) and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below. Note: It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale. Date of application: 10th March 2023
Access all published notices: w w w. s o u t h w a r k n e w s . c o . u k / p u b l i c - n o t i c e s
24 PUBLIC NOTICES www.southwarknews.co.uk
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK TOWN & COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 (as amended) PLANNING (LISTED BUILDINGS AND CONSERVATION AREAS) ACT 1990 (as amended) The planning applications listed below can be viewed on the planning register at https://planning.southwark.gov.uk/online-applications/ You can use facilities at your local library or 'My Southwark Service Points' to access the website. How to comment on this application: You should submit your comments via the above link. Comments received will be made available for public viewing on the website. All personal information will be removed except your postal address. Online comments submitted without an email address will not be acknowledged and those marked 'confidential' will not be considered. Written comments can be submitted to; Southwark Council, Chief executive's department, Planning division, Development Management, PO Box 64529, London SE1 5LX. Reason for publicity. The applications are advertised for the reasons identified by the following codes: AFFECT - development affecting character or appearance of a nearby conservation area; OR development affecting setting of a nearby listed building(s); DEP - departure from the development plan; EIA - environmental impact assessment (these applications are accompanied by an environmental statement a copy of which may be obtained from the Council - there will be a charge for the copy); MAJ - major planning application; STDCA - development within a conservation area; STDLB - works to or within the site of a listed building;
SKIPTON HOUSE 80 LONDON ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 6LH (Ref: 23/AP/0410) Change of use from office to a flexible use at floors 1 to six (inclusive) to enable office (Class E) and/or education uses (Class F) and flexible mixed uses at the ground and basement to enable retail/caf?/restaurant (Class E) and/or gym (Class E) and/or storage (Class B8) and/or offices (Class E) and/or education uses (Class F), in addition to plant, cycle parking and shower facilities, refuse/recycling storage, car parking and loading bays at basement; external alterations to the building fa?ade including new entrance and roof terrace; landscaping and visitor cycle parking to public realm and all associated works. Reason(s) for publicity: MAJ (Contact: Zoe Brown 07849 702 088)
(amended description). (Within: Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Agneta Kabele 07548097486)
19 THE GARDENS LONDON SOUTHWARK (Ref: 23/AP/0483) Application for external repairs and refurbishment comprising new windows, doors, roof coverings, rainwater goods, lighting and masonry repairs (Within: Multiple CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Michelle Meskell )
GEORGE ALFRED DYER HOUSE 51 NEPTUNE STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE16 7JP (Ref: 23/AP/0336) Demolition of the existing buildings and construction of five storey building to provide 14 new residential units (Use Class C3) with associated cycle parking, refuse storage and landscaping Reason(s) for publicity: MAJ (Contact: Ciara Lester 020 7525 0991)
4 POND COTTAGES COLLEGE ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE21 7LE (Ref: 23/AP/0769) Alteration of the existing ground floor rear extension, by extending the rear portion of the house to the retained historic wall of where the original coal shed and w/c outhouse would have been originally located. Improvements to the thermal and acoustic insulation including new like for like double glazing windows and conservation style rooflights. These works are for disabled access and for Lifetime Home compliance
158 PECKHAM RYE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE22 9QH (Ref: 23/AP/0775) Rear outrigger single storey fenestration alteration and extension (Within: The Gardens CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Catherine Jeater 020 7525 5375) 34 CHOUMERT ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 4SE (Ref: 23/AP/0555) Installation of a new extraction unit for the preexisting ground floor commercial kitchen (Within: Rye Lane Peckham CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Glenn Ruane 020 7525 5447)
Construction of full-width single storey rear extensions, replacement windows to front and rear and alterations to front railings associated with the provision of bin and bike storage at 284 and 286 Merrow Street (Within: Liverpool Grove CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: James Baddeley ) 2-4 BEDALE STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 9AL (Ref: 23/AP/0835) New signage proposed on front, side and rear elevations of the unit: fascia and projecting signs, backlit roof sign, wayfinding signs and menu box. (Within: Borough High Street CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Michelle Meskell ) 140 WALWORTH ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE17 1JL (Ref: 23/AP/0763) Variation of condition 6 'Acoustic mitigation' and removal of condition of condition 7 'Vertical sound transmission' pursuant to planning application ref no. 22/AP/2011: Alterations to the basement to include 5 karaoke booths, alterations to the ground 1st and 2nd floor for the continued use of the public house and associated function rooms and the creation of an accessible terrace to the rear of the public hous. Change of use of from sui genris to C2 (hotel) at 3rd floor to create 3 hotel rooms. (Within: Walworth Road CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Samuel Hepworth 020 7525 5465)
13 VILLAGE WAY LONDON SOUTHWARK SE21 7AN (Ref: 23/AP/0773) Demolition of existing three bedroom dwelling and construction of a two storey, five bedroom dwelling and garden studio. (Within: Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Louise Dinsdale 07513137967)
Dated: 28 Mar 2023 - comments to be received within 21 days of this date.
284-286 MERROW STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE17 2PA (Ref: 23/AP/0843)
STEPHEN PLATTS - Director of Planning and Growth
LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK VARIATION OF RESIDENT VISITOR PERMITS, PERMITS, PAID FOR PARKING, CAR PARK SEASON TICKETS AND SUSPENSION FEES 1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council of the London Borough of Southwark intends, from 1st April 2023, to increase the charges for resident visitor permits, permits, paid for parking, Peckham car park season tickets and suspensions fees under sections 35C and 46A of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as amended. The new charges will apply to all of the council’s existing controlled parking zones as well as the off-street car parks. 2. The full set of existing charges and new charges was published 2nd March 2023 in the London Gazette and The Southwark News. This notice is to make the corrections detailed in the schedules below:
READ IT HERE FIRST Check out our website for the latest breaking news, and the chance to see more photos and videos of the stories you have read in your Southwark News...
www.southwarknews.co.uk
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.southwarknews.co.uk
LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK
LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK
VALENTINE PLACE/BARON’S PLACE PERMANENT OPERATIONS
PUBLIC NOTICE (SECTION 90G)
The London Borough of Southwark (Prescribed routes) (Valentine Place and Baron’s Place) (No. *) Traffic Order 202* 1. Southwark Council hereby GIVES NOTICE that it proposes to make the above order under sections 6 and 124 of, and Part IV of Schedule 9 to, the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as amended. 2. The effects of the Order would be, on a permanent basis:(a)in BARON’S PLACE to introduce north-eastbound ‘one-way’ traffic operation, with corresponding no access from Webber Street or Valentine Place into Baron’s Place; (b) in VALENTINE PLACE to prohibit south-westbound vehicles other than pedal cycles from turning right at its junction with Webber Street; and (c) in WEBBER STREET (i) to prohibit all north-westbound vehicles from turning left into Baron’s Place, and (ii) to prohibit all south-eastbound vehicles from turning right into Baron’s Place. NOTES: The Order would supersede similar provisions at the above locations implemented by way of an experimental Order made under section 9 of the 1984 Act (which would be revoked). 3. For more information contact Jacob Larbey of the Council's Transport Projects team Highways@southwark.gov.uk 4. Copies of the supporting documents (this Notice, the proposed Order, and a statement of Southwark Council's reasons for making the Order) may be found online at www.southwark.gov.uk/trafficorders; paper or digital copies of plans showing the location and effect of the Order and the supporting documents may be requested by emailing traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk, or inspected by appointment only at: Highways, Southwark Council, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth, 3rd floor hub 2, 160 Tooley Street, London SE1 2QH - from the date of this Notice until the end of a period of six weeks from the date on which the Order is made. Email traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk (or call 020 7525 3497) for booking details. 5. Anyone wishing to object to or make any other representations regarding the proposals, may use the form labelled 'Parking - Road traffic and highway schemes - responding to statutory consultation notices' at www.southwark.gov.uk/statutoryconsultationnotices or send a statement in writing to: the Traffic Orders Officer, Highways, Southwark Council, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth, P.O. Box 64529, London SE1P 5LX or by e-mail to traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk quoting reference ‘TMO2223-039 Valentine/Baron’ by 24 April 2023. Please note that if you wish to object to this proposal you must state the grounds on which your objection is made. 6. Under requirements of current access to information legislation, any letter or e-mail sent to the Councils in response to this Notice may be subject to publication or disclosure, or both, including communication to other persons affected. Dated 30 March 2023 Dale Foden - Head of Service, Highways The Council of the London Borough of Southwark PUBLIC NOTICE: ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 29 THE (RESTRICTION OF TRAFFIC) SPECIAL EVENTS ORDER 2023 1.
The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that it has made the above named Traffic Order under section 29 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specified in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.
2.
The purpose of the Order is to facilitate play streets, as indicated in the schedule to this notice.
3.
The effect of the Order is to prohibit any vehicle or cyclist from:(a) entering or proceeding in the length of street specified in the schedule to this notice on the date and between the hours specified in that schedule;. (b) waiting (including waiting for the purpose of delivering or collecting goods or loading or unloading a vehicle) in the length of street specified in the schedule to this notice.
4.
The prohibitions will not apply in respect of: (a) any vehicle being used for the purposes of that event or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes; (b) anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by the Council of the London Borough of Southwark.
5.
PUBLIC NOTICES 25
The alternative route will be adjacent roads as applicable. For information regarding this notice, please contact Network & Parking at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk
Dated this 30th March 2023 Ian Law, Traffic Manager, London Borough of Southwark, Network Management, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street, PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: playstreets23April Schedule Road
Extent
Date of event and Prohibited Hours
Coleman Road
Rainbow Street – Newent Close (No’s 18 – 30)
Sunday 2nd April 2pm – 5pm
Pellatt Road
Crystal Palace Road – Cyrena Sunday 2nd April Road
2pm – 5pm
TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES 1. Southwark Council hereby GIVES NOTICE under sections 90A to 90I of the Highways Act 1980 and in accordance with the provisions of the Highways (Road humps) Regulations 1999 and the Highways (Traffic calming) Regulations 1999, it proposes to relocate (south-westward by approx. 45.5 metres) and replace an existing road hump of sinusoidal cross-section construction, approx. 3.7 metres in length, having a maximum height of 100 millimetres and covering the greater width of the carriageway in REVERDY ROAD, the new location will be centred at a point 1.5 metres south-west of the common boundary of Nos. 13 and 15 Reverdy Road. 2. For more information about this notice please contact Southwark Council's Highways Development team by e-mail Highways@southwark.gov.uk 3. Copies of this notice and plan may be found online at www.southwark.gov.uk/trafficorders, paper copies may be obtained from or viewed at Highways, Southwark Council, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth, 3rd floor hub 2, 160 Tooley Street, London SE1 2QH. Please email traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk, or call 020 7525 3497, for booking details. Dated 30 March 2023 Dale Foden - Head of Service, Highways LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK SEDGMOOR PLACE AREA IMPROVEMENTS The London Borough of Southwark (Charged-for parking places) (Sedgmoor Place) Order 2023 The London Borough of Southwark (Loading places and Waiting restrictions) (Sedgmoor Place) Order 2023 1. Southwark Council hereby GIVES NOTICE that on 30 March 2023 it has made the above Orders under sections 6, 45, 46, 49 and 124 of and Part IV of Schedule 9 to the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as amended. 2. The effects of the Orders are, on a permanent basis in SEDGMOOR PLACE (within Controlled Parking Zone ‘R’) on the north-west side, between its junctions with Southampton Way and Melbury Drive:(a) to install a new loading bay, 12 metres in length, which may be used ‘at any time’ and every day of the week for the purpose of loading only (without time limits); (b) to reduce the overall length of, but extend north-eastward by 6 metres, an existing ‘shared-use’ parking place to accommodate the new loading bay (the new length of this ‘shared-use’ parking place will be 14 metres); and (c) to amend existing ‘at any time’ waiting restrictions (double yellow lines) to accommodate the abovementioned parking changes. Notes: (1) All measurements are in metres and are approximate. (2) ‘shared-use’ refers to parking places in which holders of a valid permit for the Controlled Parking Zone listed, or ‘pay’ paid ticket holders are permitted to park within the hours of operation for that Zone. (3) Parking charges listed on www.southwark.gov.uk/parking. 3. Copies of the Orders, which will come into force on 3 April 2023, and of all other relevant documents are available for inspection at Highways, Southwark Council, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth, 3rd floor hub 2, 160 Tooley Street, London SE1 2QH, by appointment only. E-mail traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk or call 020 7525 3497 for booking details. 4. Any person desiring to question the validity of the Order/s or of any provision contained therein on the grounds that it is not within the relevant powers of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 or that any of the relevant requirements thereof or of any relevant regulations made thereunder has not been complied with in relation to the Order/s may, within six weeks of the date on which the Order was made, make application for the purpose to the High Court. Dated 30 March 2023 Dale Foden - Head of Service, Highways
Notice of Application for a Premises Licence made under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003 Please take notice that I / we TOMMY DUONG Have made application to Southwark Council for a new Premises Licence in respect of PHO NAM, 184 JAMAICA ROAD, LONDON SE16 4RT The relevant licensable activities and proposed times to be carried on, or on from the premises are Days
Start time
Finish time
The retail sale of alcohol:
Monday to Sunday
12:00
22:30
Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday
12:00
23:00
A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also available on our website at http://app.southwark.gov.uk/licensing/licenseregister.asp It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above (or by email via licensing@southwark.gov.uk) and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below. Note: It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale. Date of application: 23rd March 2023
FIRST FOR BREAKING NEWS Check out our website for the latest breaking news, and the chance to see more photos and videos of the stories you have read in your Southwark News...
26 SPORT www.southwarknews.co.uk/sport By Sports Reporter sport@southwarknews.co.uk SOUTHWARK TIGERS Rugby Club hosted the maiden fixture for their ALL-STARS schools side last weekend and though they lost to Maidstone RFC it was a positive first outing in their ambitious initiative.
Several players gained new experiences and the side led at halftime before Maidstone turned it around after the break. The club have been providing weekly rugby coaching sessions to eleven secondary schools in Southwark for several years. Each school is encouraged to attend regular festivals of rugby where they compete against each other for the coveted Southwark Rugby Shield. This season alone over 550 boys and girls have benefitted from rugby tuition provided by Southwark in partnership with London Irish RFC. The Tigers then decided to create a ‘super team’ from the participants in the programme. After-school training facilities were secured and a high-class hybrid coaching team from London Irish, Southwark and England Rugby embarked on a project to develop the ALL-STARS into a team capable of competing against more experienced opponents. Maidstone RFC answered the call to provide the opposition for the inaugural match and turned up with a full squad and vocal support despite the unfavourable weather conditions that hampered any free-flowing rugby that either team might have had planned. The first half was a largely tense and scrappy affair with 70 per cent of the ALL-STARS playing their first-ever proper match on a full pitch and being pulled around positionally by a more experienced and canny Maidstone outfit who kicked well and recycled efficiently in the tight. Southwark fought hard and contested well, barely missing a tackle all day. They did however have a tendency to throw unnecessary passes which were often knocked on in the wet conditions. Maidstone had adapted to the conditions well and kicked to exploit Southwark’s positional naivety. They were also far more secure in the setpiece with many of the ALL-STARS experiencing a live scrum for the first time. After some consistent pressure
Southwark Tigers ALL-STARS NARROWLY EDGED OUT BY MAIDSTONE
But initiative continues to be a success as players build up their rugby experience
The ALL-STARS squad on the Southwark line Maidstone finally went over for the first score of the day. Despite the continuing rain the ALLSTARS didn’t lose heart and started to contest every tackle. And they were level after a line-out move with the added conversion meaning they went
Promoter backs Riakporhe By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk RICHARD RIAKPORHE is the only fighter in the cruiserweight division who could defeat unbeaten Lawrence Okolie, according to both men’s promoter.
Hackney’s Okolie defended his WBO belt with a laboured points’ win against New Zealander David Light in Manchester last weekend. Walworth’s Riakporhe is also undefeated and has fought his way into world title contention. “He’s so hard to beat. He’s so big, he’s so strong,” BOXXER head Ben Shalom said of Okolie on Sky Sports. “He’s going to be very difficult to beat. He’d be the last person you want to face as an opponent. “I think for me Richard Riakporhe’s the
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
biggest challenge that he’ll face in the cruiserweight division. “I think Richard Riakporhe’s the only man that possibly could beat Lawrence Okolie. “It’s either the unification or Richard for Lawrence next and I know it’s a fight that Richard’s dying for. I think that’s the plan, that’s the route and it’s exciting because already Lawrence has got his mandatory out the way, now with ring rust off. “CBS [Chris Billam-Smith] has built brilliantly to the stadium fight, Richard Riakporhe’s gone from British level to world level over the past eighteen months and just got better and better and better. “So the beautiful thing is we do have three cruiserweights at world level ready to go for world titles and fight each other. “So it’ll be a big year this year.”
into the break 7-5 in front. The second half started perfectly for the ALL-STARS as they turned over possession before going in under the posts. The two points were added for a 14-5 lead. But that only prompted the visitors to kick into a higher gear. Maidstone
began to dominate the second half with patient play from their forwards allowing them to build a platform that Southwark were unable to compete with. Maidstone picked up three unanswered tries as Southwark began to tire and lose a bit of discipline. The contest finished 24-14 to the visitors.
Coach Chris Callaway said: “Despite the score, spirits were high. There is a real feeling of something special happening alongside a belief that the team can go on to much greater things. “We would like to thank Maidstone and their travelling support for making such an excellent occasion.”
Local football: Setbacks for SCEFL sides By John Kelly
johnk@southwarknews.co.uk A RAGGEDY three minutes in the second half cost Fisher as they were beaten 3-0 by Kennington in the SCEFL Premier Division last weekend.
Having had the better of a goalless first half, the Fish conceded in the 54th and 56th minutes. Max Sutton put the hosts in front before Mohammed Cham quickly doubled the lead. Elliott Moore added a third five minutes from time. The result left Ajay Ashanike’s side in thirteenth place in the table with 39 points from 31 games. Stansfeld were also beaten in the Premier Division, 4-2 at home to Sutton Athletic.
Rob Hughes gave the Stans a secondminute lead before Arlie Desanges levelled in the 30th minute and Conor Evans edged his side in front three minutes later. Stansfeld responded through Callum Keeble on 40 minutes, but Desanges got his second in the 66th minute and Neil Spencer made sure of the points with his side’s fourth with ten minutes left. Stansfeld dropped to twelfth, three points ahead of Fisher after the same number of games. There was no luck either for Bermondsey Town who lost 3-1 to Larkfield & New Hythe in their First Division game at St Paul’s. Matt Day struck after ten minutes to give the away side the lead. Tobi Irefin equalised in the 31st minute only for Town’s relief to be short-lived as Victor
Aiyelabola made it 2-1 two minutes later. Day got his second a minute into the second half and Dean Harrison’s lastplace side couldn’t respond. Fisher were in action at Sutton Athletic in the second leg of their Challenge Cup semi-final on Tuesday night. Stansfeld travelled to Erith & Belvedere in the Premier Division and Bermondsey Town made the short trip to Lewisham Borough in midweek. Go to southwarknews.co.uk for a round-up of those fixtures. The Fish host Kennington again in the league this Saturday and Stansfeld go to Hollands & Blair. Both games kick off at 3pm. Bermondsey’s next league game is against Croydon at St Paul’s on Saturday, April 8.
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.southwarknews.co.uk/sport
Dulwich drop into relegation zone with seven games left
Boss Hakan Hayrettin instructs his side
By Wilf MacDonnell at Champion Hill sport@southwarknews.co.uk HAKAN HAYRETTIN said it was “two points dropped” despite Dulwich Hamlet holding thirdplace Oxford City to a 2-2 draw at Champion Hill last weekend.
But even after such an encouraging result, it was one that meant the Hamlet slipped into the relegation zone for the first time this season with only seven games left. Dulwich were agonisingly just three minutes away from the win which would have prevented that scenario. After Oliver Sanderson broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute, the Hamlet hit back through Danny Mills seven minutes later before Gianni Crichlow put them in front ten minutes from time. But the away side salvaged a point on 87 minutes through Kalidi Lolos. Dulwich are 21st in National League South, a point behind Cheshunt with a game in hand.
Hayrettin set his Dulwich team up to be hard to break down in the first half, with seven players who all primarily play in defence starting the game. The tactical tweak had the desired effect, as the home side were very solid and Oxford City created very little in the opening period. The defensive partnership between two debutants, the experienced David Stephens alongside Deon Woodman – the latter making his first appearance in senior football on loan from Queens Park Rangers – held firm. Second-choice Dulwich goalkeeper Aaron Jones had a couple of routine saves to make without being worked too hard. Jones gathered Latrell Humphrey-Ewers’ shot from range before striker Lolos could only shoot straight at the home stopper after a mazy run past three defenders. The Hamlet struggled to create any clear chances of their own and were nearly a goal down before the break. Humphrey-Ewers again shot from distance and this time his thunderous
Scotney on huge Taylor bill
By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk FORMER LYNN amateur Ellie Scotney has been handed a shot at the world title on boxing legend Katie Taylor’s undercard in Dublin in May.
Lewisham’s Scotney, 25, called for a fight against Cherneka Johnson after her win against Mary Romero last October, and she has got it.
Scotney’s bout against Romero was also on a Taylor undercard in London. In her first professional fight in Ireland, unbeaten Taylor, 36, is aiming to become a two-weight undisputed champion when she takes on Northampton’s Chantelle Cameron, 31. Scotney has won all six of her professional fights and now aims to become IBF world superbantamweight champion.
drive crashed off the underside of the bar just before the half-time whistle. In the second half the hosts switched to a 4-3-3 system and looked far more dangerous. Joe Felix was bundled over from behind on the hour, but to the surprise of almost everyone at Champion Hill no penalty was awarded. Instead, Oxford punished Dulwich at the other end just minutes later. Sanderson, on as a substitute, controlled a long pass from defence from Jack Davies, before cutting inside and coolly placing his finish into the bottom corner. Backed by a raucous home support, Dulwich bounced back. The relentless Felix whipped an in-swinging cross from deep on the left, and Mills was up to meet it to plant his header into the bottom corner. Eleven minutes later the hosts were in front. The Hoops failed to clear properly and with the ball bouncing around on the edge of the box, Crichlow fired in a snapshot on the
dulwich hamlet fc
Lionesses see off Dartford Photo by Rob Avis
Late goal denies Hamlet
SPORT 27
half-volley. The low shot took a wicked diversion off the uneven ground just in front of goalkeeper Adnan Kanurić and went past him. Cue pandemonium at Champion Hill. But Dulwich couldn’t hold on. Just three minutes from time Oxford put together a lovely move down the right ending with Aaron WilliamsBushell cutting the ball back to Lolos who turned brilliantly and ruthlessly lashed into the roof of the net. Afterwards, Hayrettin said: “Looking at it, it’s two points dropped but before the game if someone offered me a point I would’ve said yes. “The players have been amazing, we played a different system today because we had to stop them playing because they’re an exceptional team.” “We deserved to go in front but we’ve got to look at that last goal and say, could we do better?” It doesn’t get any easier for Hayrettin’s side as they travel to second-place Dartford this Saturday. Kick-off at Princes Park is at 3pm.
By Jeff Burnige at St Paul’s sport@southwarknews.co.uk MILLWALL LIONESSES had an impressive victory over rivals Dartford in their London & South East Women’s Regional Football League game at St Paul’s last Sunday.
The Darts have proved frustrating opponents over recent matches, and things were trickier as the Lionesses’ management team of Jack Wheeler and assistant Alex Russell were forced to make six changes through injury and unavailability. This included both registered goalkeepers, so in a very late change defender Lauren Williams donned the gloves. Williams would make a crucial intervention later on. The Lionesses started strongly, and on fifteen minutes young winger Angel Reid turned brilliantly in the box only to see her fierce shot rebound off the crossbar. Undeterred, Reid then produced a great run and shot which top-scorer Otesha Charles turned home. Millwall’s back four, featuring the returning Amy Nash, were on top form. After a couple of nervy late moments, Williams achieved a clean sheet, thanks largely to Nash, Julia Moulton, Hope Welsh and Jas Auguste, and a midfield trio deploying a highly effective low block. The front three of Reid, Charles and centre-forward Kaydence Kabadaki were a constant menace, although the latter was substituted after receiving a yellow card for handball when clearly fouled. Both sides were concerned that the referee was inconsistent, and she was replaced by Emma Whitter. On 70 minutes, Millwall were awarded a penalty which the reliable Maisie Joyce smashed home for a twogoal lead. Dartford were themselves awarded a penalty, which brought a double-save from Williams, first diving low to her left and then bravely at the feet of the onrushing Darts forward. Introduced from the bench, a fourth consecutive appearance for seventeenyear-old Ellen Napper brought the number of under-18s on the pitch to four. The rivalry is resumed this Sunday at Dartford’s Princes Park, and Wheeler will again put his trust in these excellent youngsters from the successful under-18 squad.
Gift of the Gab nets Menace point
By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk DAVID GABOR scored in addedtime to rescue a point for Peckham Town at Ide Hill in the Kent County Premier Division last weekend.
Gabor struck in the 92nd minute after Thomas Goodayle’s goal seemed like it would be enough to earn the win for the hosts. Mary Phillip’s Peckham hadn’t played in
two weeks and perhaps there was some rustiness still being shaken off when Goodyale fired past goalkeeper George Legg from the edge of the box just four minutes in. Town’s Camilo Andres Nieva thought he should have had a penalty after a strong challenge in the box before the woodwork prevented the visitors from going two goals down just before half-time. Ide Hill were reduced to ten men after dissent as the game approached injury-
time. The Menace made it count when Kevin Dance found Andres Nieva with a throw-in and after the winger tumbled on the edge of the box the referee played advantage allowing Gabor to hold off a challenge and curl home. Peckham are eleventh in the sixteenteam table with 30 points from 21 games. They play eighth-place Halls AFC at The Menace Arena this Saturday. Kick-off is at 2.45pm.
28 MILLWALL www.newsatden.co.uk/ Championship preview
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
West Brom
VS Millwall
Stakes set for showdown at the Hawthorns
The Hawthorns. Saturday, April 1st. Kick-off: 3pm
By Alex Jones alexj@southwarknews.co.uk MILLWALL RETURN from the final international break of the season with a huge game away at top-six rivals West Brom.
While the Lions sit inside the playoff places ahead of the Baggies, their position is far from secure. The gap on Norwich City in seventh is just three points, meaning that a defeat for the visitors could knock them all the way down to eighth if the Canaries [vs. Sheffield United] and Coventry City [vs. Stoke City] both win. It would also set up Carlos Corberan’s men to leapfrog Millwall as they have a game in hand on four of the seven teams above them, albeit that it will be away to automatic promotion favourites Sheffield United. West Brom will certainly be confident, however. Not only is their fate in their own hands, but they boast one of the best home records in the division. They have won, drawn and lost the same number of games at the Hawthorns as Millwall have at The Den this season, highlighting just how consistent they are in B71. They have also made a clear improvement since the start of the season. Steve Bruce was sacked shortly before their trip to South London at the end of October, with a 2-1 defeat thanks to Tyler Burey’s late goal leaving them in 23rd place. Of course, Saturday’s game feels much bigger than their earlier meeting given the timing and the stakes, and while Millwall boss Gary Rowett is adamant that it will no more important than any of their other seven games, he admits that it could undoubtedly end up deciding whether
Millwall aim to avoid April Fool’s shock in the West Midlands The Lions could end the weekend anywhere between fifth and eighth in the Championship table
or not they secure a top-six finish this season. “It’s a massive game, but I think every game is going to be massive,” he told the News. “We play West Brom, then regardless of the result, Luton will be no less important. “It’s for other people to label what they think the game is. For us, it’s just the next game and we know how important it is, particularly given both teams’ positions and the fight to get into the top six. “We also know what a good side West Brom are. They’ve had excellent home form since Carlos has gone in. They’ll be very well organised and the patterns that they use are unpredictable. “We also know what kind of player Jed is. To go from here to a club like West Brom and still probably their most influential player in my opinion, he’s been excellent. “People have spoken about him and Zian - I think it would’ve been great to have them both, it would’ve been brilliant to see, but the reality is that he’s at West Brom now and he’ll be trying as hard as he can to beat us and see if he can close the gap on us.”
matCh details
Possible Millwall starting XI: 4-2-3-1:
Long; McNamara, Cooper, Cresswell, Wallace; Leonard, Shackleton; Honeyman, Flemming, Watmore; Voglsammer
Match odds:
West Brom 17/20 Draw 23/10 Millwall 17/5
Last meeting:
Championship (October 22nd, 2022): Millwall 2-1 West Brom (Styles 38’, Burey 90; Swift 20’)
Murray Wallace relishes West Brom encounter
Millwall defender excited to face former teammate in crucial clash EXCLUSIVE By Alex Jones alexj@southwarknews.co.uk MURRAY WALLACE has revealed that he is excited to take on former teammate Jed Wallace this weekend as Millwall face play-off rivals West Brom at The Hawthorns.
Murray Wallace missed the Lions’ 2-1 win in the reverse fixture earlier this season
The Scotsman is expected to start at leftback, where he will likely be tasked with marking last season’s top scorer in a crucial clash at the top of the Championship. Jed Wallace has arguably been the Baggies’ best player so far this season, having scored five goals in 37 league games so far this season. He has also provided eight assists, with one coming at The Den against the Lions back in October. His celebration in front of the Cold Blow Lane end certainly infuriated a number of Millwall supporters, who are desperate for their side to do the double over Carlos Corberan’s men in order to give
themselves a comfortable cushion in the top six. Murray Wallace is certainly excited about the prospect of playing in such a big game, and the chance to face the Lions’ former talisman will be a fascinating twist on an already tantalising match-up. “I’d be delighted to play against Jed,” he told the News. “We know what he’s about, the fans know what he’s about. He’s a really good player and he’s got loads of energy.
Jed Wallace celebrated in front of the home fans after West Brom’s opener at The Den
“I was a little bit gutted to miss it last time because of injury, when they played him at home. If I get the chance to be up against him on Saturday, if he’s playing on my side, then I look forward to the challenge.” Of course, the two players have faced off numerous times in training, so Murray Wallace may know the 29-year-old’s strengths and weaknesses more than anyone else in the division. Whether or not that helps him in the West Midlands on Saturday afternoon is another matter, explaining that it will be difficult to track such a skilful, prolific attacking player. “It’s one thing knowing the player’s strengths and weaknesses, but when you’re up against a good player, it’s hard to stop them,” he added. “That’s why they’re good players. “With Jed, I know exactly what he’s like. He has such high energy, you can’t think that you’ve kept him quiet at any moment because he’ll keep going the entire game. “I think you have to stay switched on.”
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.newsatden.co.uk
MILLWALL 29
Duo in line for return to action EXCLUSIVE
By Alex Jones alexj@southwarknews.co.uk
Millwall are nearing a fully-fit squad ahead of their play-off run-in
BILLY MITCHELL and Tyler Burey are in contention to feature in Saturday’s clash against West Brom.
Mitchell injured his ankle in a 1-0 defeat to Coventry City last month, while Burey damaged his hip in a 2-0 defeat to Sheffield United in the third round of the FA Cup back in early January. However, both returned to training earlier this week and could be involved at The Hawthorns, while Mason Bennett will likely miss the game as he aims to work his way back to match fitness in early April. “They’ve only trained for a couple of days,” Gary Rowett told the News. “Billy trained on Monday, Tyler trained for a few more days with the under-21’s and then came in yesterday as well, so they’ve both trained this week so far. Benno is due to come back in on Thursday. “I think the obvious ones really are whether Billy and Tyler will be up to speed to go back in the squad over the weekend. Mase probably wouldn’t have had enough training by then. “They’ve been out for a while, six to eight weeks. It’s not easy to come straight back into the team or straight back into the squad. You’ve got to be confident that, when they step foot onto the pitch, they can do whatever you need them to do. That’s always difficult after a period out. “Ideally we’d give them a little bit more training time, but at this point in the season, there’s not that long left, so you can’t wait three or four games to wait until they go back in the group. “We’ll assess that over training and assess where we think they are, then we’ll make as good a decision as we can. “It’s nice to have them back, it’s nice to have them back for the training numbers. I think it adds competition
Billy Mitchell and Tyler Burey in contention for West Brom showdown to the squad where people have got to perform to stay in the team. That’s what you want to create a good environment. Rowett is waiting on further information on Callum Styles, whose loan from Barnsley is set to expire at the end of the campaign, although Millwall retain an option to sign him on a permanent deal. The club have received positive information on the Hungarian
international, who could yet return before the end of the season. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of 19-year-old Aidomo Emakhu, who will miss the rest of the campaign with a hamstring injury. “I think he [Styles] is making quite good progress,” the manager added. “We had some good news on a scan the other day. We’re waiting for the specialist to give us advice moving
forward, but there’s a hope that he might be able to ramp up his progress and potentially be available for some games. “Again, at this stage of the season, it’s difficult to have a definitive answer on that until they start training. “Aidomo pulled his hamstring. He’ll be out for the rest of the season. “It’s a bit of a blow for him because he was looking bright and sharp. He hasn’t
played too many 90 minutes in his career and maybe he’s felt the intensity of training and games. “Unfortunately, he just tweaked it towards the end of the game. He’s spent a little bit of time in the physio room and a little bit of time out on the pitch, so it’s been a sporadic six months for him. “Hopefully he’ll learn and be stronger for next year.”
Millwall boss keen to play down final fixtures Gary Rowett wants his squad to stay calm and focused during the promotion run-in EXCLUSIVE By Alex Jones alexj@southwarknews.co.uk MILLWALL MANAGER Gary Rowett is determined to keep his players calm and focused ahead of their final eight Championship games.
Gary Rowett is aiming to secure the first promotion of his managerial career this season
The Lions know that a play-off spot is in their own hands, but any poor results in the next few weeks could end up dumping them out of the top six should other clubs be able to take advantage. Some managers would opt to get their entire squad together for a big meeting
ahead of a pivotal run-in, but Rowett is keen to stress that it is business as usual for his squad as they look to compete for promotion to the Premier League. “We have meetings all the time, but the mentality is no different,” he told the News. “It’s no different in the last eight games as it is in the first game of the season. It’s not just about the result, it’s about how we get there, how we break that down and what we need to do in each moment to try and put a big performance in. “If we put in a big performance more often than not, we’ll win the game. That’s the focus for us.
“We don’t tend to sit down and suddenly have a different meeting talking about the mentality in the last eight games because that just over-accentuates the pressure on them. “The players know where we’re at, we’ve been here for a while now. It’s about handling some of these bigger games, which is the biggest challenge of the season. “We’re in good shape. We’ve got some players coming back, which makes the squad look a bit healthier. “We’re ready and excited to go into these games and put some big performances in.”
30 MILLWALL www.newsatden.co.uk/
Shacks shines after getting his shot
Leeds loanee takes his chance in the team after Billy Mitchell’s injury EXCLUSIVE By Alex Jones
sport@southwarknews.co.uk THE INTERNATIONAL break provided Jamie Shackleton with a rare chance to return to normality.
After all, living more than 200 miles away from where he was born and raised is certainly not normal. He has spent his entire life in Leeds, but this season was about pushing out of his comfort zone in order to develop as a footballer. The 23-year-old relished the opportunity to see his friends and family again, and while adapting to life in London was a scary prospect at the start, he has fully acclimatised to his new life in the capital. “If we get a couple of days off, more often than not, I’ll get myself back up there and go and see everybody that I need to see,” he told the News. “Coming down, I was a bit nervous. It was my first time away from living in Yorkshire, but I realised pretty quickly that I was going to enjoy it here. “I think I’ve settled into being here and living around here quite a lot.” There is no denying that his start to life at The Den was tricky. A regular in the opening weeks, Shackleton dropped out of the team when Gary Rowett switched from a back five to a 4-2-3-1. He was regularly limited to short cameo appearances, but the manager continued to promise that he would get his chance in the team. It was particularly hard due to the consistent performances of George Saville and Billy Mitchell, who were the first-choice midfield duo for much of the season. However, when the latter picked up an injury, Shackleton was given his opportunity, which he took with open arms. “As a player, the main thing that you want to do is play football and play as much football as possible. “That’s in games especially, that’s the main thing. That’s the part that
everybody sees. “I had to stay patient and wait for opportunities and take them when they come. “Billy has been key to a large part of where we are this season. “Whilst he’s been injured, it’s important that we don’t stop playing the way that we want to play and that we continue that momentum that we built up beforehand. “I think we’ve done that over the last couple of months. We’ve been able to keep ourselves or even put ourselves in a better position than we were going into the last couple of months.” These are all the things that a young player will experience on a first loan, although Shackleton’s case is unusual given the fact that his first spell away from his parent club has come so late in his career. As a result, there was a bit of anxiety heading into his move to The Den, but it has been perfect for his development as a player and a person. “I was a bit nervous about it all and I didn’t really know what to expect,” he admitted. “Within the first couple of weeks, I realised that it was a great place. That’s sort of what I expected, otherwise I wouldn’t have chosen to come down here. “It met my expectations and more. It’s a great club. The lads are great and the fans are very passionate.” Asked about the main thing he has learned during his time in South London, Shackleton is quick to answer. “Defending as a team,” he states. “Everything that we do, but especially defensively, is all as one unit rather than individuals. “I think that’s key to how we play football matches and ultimately try to win them. It’s how we defend and move as units, whether that’s defensive midfield or as a whole team.” Of course, this is a new experience for Shackleton. After all, Rowett may be the polar opposite of someone like Marcelo
Bielsa, who plays a totally different style of football. U l t i m a t e l y, the midfielder believes that this will play a huge part in his development as he looks to become a wellrounded player that can shine at the top level, especially given that this is his one of his first full seasons of senior football. “There’s loads of different ways to play football as a team,” he explained. “Different managers and different clubs have different ideas. I’m sure that I’m going to come across plenty more ideas throughout my career, which I will have to adapt and get used to. “This is my first challenge away from Leeds. It’s opened my eyes, helped me grow and learn different ways of playing football and helped me to adapt.” The next eight games will undoubtedly be the biggest of Shackleton’s loan spell, and one of the most important in his entire career to date. Millwall have their fate in their own hands, knowing that their results will decide whether or not they secure a place in this year’s play-offs. In fact, at the start of his stint, he immediately set out his goal of guiding the Lions to the Premier League, which certainly raised a few eyebrows at the time. However, there now seems to be a genuine chance that he could achieve his goal despite the odds being stacked against them all season “Over the last couple of years, the club has been just short of the play-offs a couple of times,” he said. “We’re not a million miles off taking that step into the play-offs and hopefully into the Premier League. “We’ve had a couple of seasons now where that’s been doable. This is another season where it’s there for us to go and grab it with both hands.”
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
Jamie Shackleton has featured in 33 of Millwall’s 38 league games so far this season
Southwark News, Thursday March 30 2023
www.newsatden.co.uk
Muzza explains Millwall’s mentality
MILLWALL 31 Murray Wallace believes that the Lions have what it takes to secure a top-six finish
Scotsman calls for calm ahead of dramatic season climax EXCLUSIVE By Alex Jones
sport@southwarknews.co.uk AS A vital part of Millwall’s starting lineup, Murray Wallace has played an unbelievable amount of football since the turn of the year.
Of course, that is the dream for any professional, but it also takes a toll on both your body and your mind. As a result, the international break came at the perfect time for the Scotsman, who had a chance to rest ahead of Millwall’s final eight fixtures. “It’s been lovely,” he told the News. “I managed to go up to Scotland for a couple of days. My sister got married, so I got to see a lot of my friends and family. “Then, obviously, I’ve been in training for most of the week. I got
to see some more friends and family over the weekend. It was great. “I think February was so busy. It was similar going into March. “The international break came at a good time, especially with April going to be a busy month. “I think it’s what everybody needed, both physically and mentally.” The aforementioned mental aspect will be vital. Staying focused from a psychological viewpoint can be the difference in making the top six or falling at the final hurdle, and Wallace knows just how big a challenge that is going to be. “I think that’s obviously going to be key, you don’t want to be thinking that you’re coming to the end,” he admitted. “We want to go all the way and go as far as we can. With the likes of some of the lads coming back from injuries, you always get a boost with
players who have been out for a while. Obviously, they haven’t had the game time but they’ve been doing the recovery. “It’s always a boost to have those faces back in.” There is an idea that Millwall need to change the way they approach games heading into the final weeks. Treating each game as a cup final may be a cliche, but after all, it is effective. Wallace, however, believes that it would be detrimental to the Lions’ chances to change their mindset, instead claiming that they should stick with the same mentality that took them up to sixth in the first place. “I think that’s the best way to be, to approach it like every other game,” he explained. “Obviously we want to win every game. I think if you prioritise certain games over others, you can lose focus on those other games. That can have a
bit of a negative effect. “You take each game at a time and do your best to win them all.” The reality is that Millwall have adopted that approach all along, not just this season. Wallace believes that their steady attitude was brought in by Gary Rowett, who has improved how the club is run both on and off the pitch, with the results clear for all to see. “I think we’ve been closing the gap on the teams finishing in the top six throughout my time here,” he said. “We’ve been doing that by bringing in the right players. Since Gary’s come in, it’s taken time to get a full squad of his players and the sort of team that he wants. “You can see the sort of team that we’ve got - a really talented group of lads, who are also hard-working. I think it’s a really great mix.” Nonetheless, the Championship run-
International Lions face late checks
Millwall manager to assess quartet ahead of trip to the Hawthorns EXCLUSIVE By Alex Jones
sport@southwarknews.co.uk MILLWALL WILL wait to assess their four international players before Saturday’s clash with West Brom, manager Gary Rowett has said.
Tom Bradshaw [Wales], George Saville [Northern Ireland] and Charlie Cresswell [England under-21] have all played at least once since the Lions’ 1-0 defeat at home to Huddersfield Town,
while Romain Esse [England under-18] has played three games in the space of just five days. There is no denying that all four players could have done with a rest ahead of the Lions’ run-in - especially Bradshaw, who has had to play through numerous knocks as the only out-andout striker in the squad. However, Rowett is confident that they will still be able to feature at The Hawthorns this weekend, although it will depend on their fitness when they return to training at Calmont Road. “If you look at it, nobody has played so
many games so close to Saturday that it’s necessarily going to be an issue,” he told the News. “You have to wait and see. Bradders was obviously carrying one or two things going into the international break and, in an ideal world, he would’ve had a breather, but he came on for 20 minutes and looked absolutely fine. “He looked bright and delighted to be out there. I’m sure he’ll put that enthusiasm into those games for Wales because he’ll be so glad to have been selected again after a period.
“Unless those players come back with any real knocks, I think it’s the same thing. You’re looking tactically at the weekend and what we need to do. “I think there’s an element of it being the last eight games, we’ve got to go and attack them. It’s not one where we’re trying to hang on in there, it’s dangerous to do that. “We have to attack the games. We have to accept that it might leave us a bit vulnerable in some areas but give us a bit more strength in other areas. That’s our mindset going into this final period.”
in will be nerve-racking for Millwall fans, but Wallace is certain that he and his teammates will be able to stay calm regardless of the circumstances. “I can’t wait,” he chuckled. “Personally, I think everybody would love to be in this position. “Obviously, I’m super excited about it. I think, to be going into the end of the season with such high pride and the chance to be promoted to the Premier League, that’s what everybody wants. “We all know that, to make it into the play-offs, it can be any four teams. It could be any of them that go up. Obviously, we want to put ourselves in the mix and give ourselves the best chance. “I think everybody’s excited but also really focused and concentrated. It’s not going to be an easy job, we’ve still got some tough games to play. “I think everybody’s got that
Hamlet plunge to new depth
inside
Sport Southwark
Page 27
Lions finding a balance between work and rest
Gary Rowett’s side would likely need to win four of their last eight games to secure a play-off place
EXCLUSIVE By Alex Jones alexj@southwarknews.co.uk MILLWALL PLAYERS have been given a few days off after a hectic run of fixtures, but manager Gary Rowett has been keen to keep them fresh ahead of their final eight games.
never change a winning formula
Millwall boss urges players to adopt same mentality for promotion run-in EXCLUSIVE By Alex Jones alexj@southwarknews.co.uk GARY ROWETT does not want his players to change their mentality as they look to secure their first top-six finish in the Championship since 2002.
Millwall head into Saturday’s match against West Brom with a threepoint gap on Norwich City in seventh, having become one of the promotion favourites after an impressive run in February and March.
They have won five of their last eleven games, drawing three and losing three, putting them in a healthy position ahead of their last eight games. In theory, the Lions have one of the easiest run-ins in the entire division, especially compared to their play-off rivals. They face three huge games against West Brom (ninth), Luton Town (fourth) and Blackburn Rovers (fifth), but the rest of their opponents are languishing towards the bottom end of the table. However, Rowett is adamant that his players need to maintain the
same mentality that got them into the top six, although he is aware that they will feel the pressure in their final fixtures as they close in on a shot of securing promotion to the Premier League. “The outside story is almost that we’ve got a relatively easy run-in outside of those three games,” he told the News. “We’ve just lost to Huddersfield, who are a team down there at the bottom of the table. As a manager, that doesn’t even cross your mind. Every game is a tough game, there’s pressure for every team at this stage
of the season. “Pressure is a privilege. We’re fortunate to be in this position and we’ve earned the right to be in this position. “What we’ve got to do is go out there with the aim of trying embrace it, enjoy it and work hard to try and get the results that we need - along with every other club that’s trying to do exactly the same. “I don’t see it as ‘here’s the next three games and then we’ve got five games’, because we’ve got eight games left starting with West Brom. That’s as simple as it gets.”
The first-team squad have been without a league match for two weeks after their 1-0 defeat to Huddersfield Town at The Den, although some were off on international duty. As a result, it has been hard to maintain a full working schedule, but the manager is keen to get back to work ahead of Saturday’s trip to West Brom. “In terms of work and rest, I think there’s a blend of both really,” he told the News. “I think most clubs would do the same. You’re going to give the players a few days off to relax and re-energise for the last eight games, I think that’s important. “Of course, you don’t want to go into it on the back of a defeat, but overall our form was pretty good in that period. “It’s a chance to reflect. We had two or three days off, then back into work. “International breaks are strange because you’ve got four players not here, so you can only work on certain things. You’ve got a few injured players maybe coming back into training. “There’s a little blend, and as the week starts to ramp up, it starts to look a little bit more like a full squad. “It’s been good so far. All you can do is enjoy the break, reflect and get ready to go again.”
Millwall are looking to ramp up training ahead of their trip to The Hawthorns The recycled paper content of UK newspapers in 2014 was 83.5%
Visit www.newsatden.co.uk for all the latest Millwall news online