TheSuburbCircular July Summer Issue by The Suburb Circular

www.thesuburbcircular.co.uk

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05/07/2016

6000 copies distributed door to door in Hampstead Garden Suburb

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JULY 2016 | ISSUE 14

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INSIDE

FOOD & NUTRITION • Home & Garden • Education & politics • health & Fitness • AND MUCH MORE...

inside

Contents JULY 2016

Education & Politics

4 The Taxi Charity 6 Andrew Dismore My thoughts 8 Mike Freer Leaving by the front door

Health & Fitness

7 Lazy Eye 10 Junior Doctors Dispute 12 Migraine Headaches

Home & Garden

20 How secure is your door 22 Easy steps to grow your own vegetable garden

Gifts & Events

16 Photo essay The Rafael Collection 19 The new Events page

Motoring & Travel

24 Long tern funding secured for Electric Cars

Business &Finance 26 Crash for cash 28 TSC Directory

ď&#x20AC;¨020-7101-4242 ď&#x201A;&#x2122; info@thesuburbcircular.co.uk www.thesuburbcircular.co.uk No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publishers. While every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content no responsibility can be taken for errors and omissions. The views expressed in the magazine are not those necessary those of the publishers. Readers are strongly advised to check information published with individual advertisers and take legal advise where appropriate, before entering any transactions.

From the editor Dear Reader,

elcome to our July issue of the Suburb Circular

Summer is upon us now, giving us the long hours of daylight and hopefully warm weather that we enjoy at this time of year. July is traditionally the month when London is in full swing with music festivals & sports events plus various summer exhibitions & shows. This means the opportunity of going to BBC Proms, seeing the Royal Academy of Arts Exhibition, the Festival of Love, the Star Wars Celebration, Buckingham Palace Summer Opening and so much more……… In the magazine we have now added a new regular section in this month’s edition - a local Hampstead events page.

The team EDITORIAL Editor Henry Marshall Contributors Andrew Dismore David Hillel Burns Tim Barnes-Clay James Walker Phil Lyons Isaac Feiner Philip Jubb

ADVERTISING Arie Kiselstein 020-7101 4242

And as always we feature interesting articles on health, business, the home, art and cars.

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

We would appreciate your input in regards to local stories and local heroes.

Kerrie Callard www.thesuburbcircular.co.uk

Henry

Henry Marshall Editor 020-7101 4242

www.thesuburbcircular.co.uk

Education & politics

The taxi charity

Hoping to win T

hese are exciting times for the London Taxi Benevolent Association for War Disabled, a charity run by London cabbies who organise trips and outings for former servicemen and women, as they have reached the finals of the 2016 National Lottery Awards. The Lottery Awards is an annual search to find the UK’s favourite Lottery-funded projects. From an original list of 600 entries, the LTBAWD has reached the final shortlist and is up against six others competing in the Best Charity/Voluntary Project category. The charity that receives the most votes from the public will win a National Lottery trophy and a £3,000 cash prize for their project. In the case of the LTBAWD, this money would provide a welcome boost to their

coffers, as they are currently raising funds to finance their ambitious plan to take 150 World War Two veterans to Normandy next June to mark the 73rd anniversary of the D-Day landings. The LTBAWD was formed at the Bedford Arms public house in Fulham on 27th February 1947. Later that year, their first two seaside outings took place, one to Brighton the other to Worthing. In total 25 taxis were used to convey 50 disabled veterans. Worthing became the preferred destination, and with a stop-off at South Holmwood village (where veterans and drivers receive a warm welcome from the villagers who kindly provide food and refreshments) the charity has taken veterans there every year since.

More recently there have been poignant trips to France and Holland. In 1994, a four-day visit to Normandy was organised to commemorate the 50th anniversary of D-Day. The memorable journey began at Horseguards Parade where 150 Normandy veterans in 75 taxis assembled to be greeted by HM Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. In May 2008, the charity returned to Normandy, on that occasion transporting 160 Normandy veterans in 95 taxis. In May 2012, came the first of three visits to the Netherlands to celebrate VE Day. It is impossible to adequately convey in words the depth of affection and respect the Dutch people hold for these great men who helped liberate their country. The veterans were greeted by an avenue of children waving flags

the Suburb Circular • JULY 2016

as they arrived at the Airborne Museum in Oosterbeek. The local municipality turned the grounds into a village fete where veterans met local Dutch people and exchanged gifts with the children. Then it was off to the town of Wageningen for the National Liberation Parade. Here the veterans were transported in London double-decker buses for the 5km parade. There was a feeling of apprehension as the heavens opened. Yet any sense of foreboding quickly vanished as the sheer enormity of the welcome became apparent. 150,000 people standing in the rain, waving and cheering. A truly astonishing occasion the veterans and all those present will never forget. The LTBAWD is run entirely on a voluntary basis. The charity has no premises. The committee, mainly comprising of working London taxi drivers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; of which I am one â&#x20AC;&#x201C; meet once a month at the Royal Hospital (home of the Chelsea Pensioners) who provide a conference room free of charge.

THE LTBAWD WAS FORMED AT THE BEDFORD ARMS PUBLIC HOUSE IN FULHAM ON 27TH FEBRUARY 1947. LATER THAT YEAR, THEIR FIRST TWO SEASIDE OUTINGS TOOK PLACE, ONE TO BRIGHTON THE OTHER TO WORTHING. IN TOTAL 25 TAXIS WERE USED TO CONVEY 50 DISABLED VETERANS. Our charity is supported by several sponsors, many of whom have been donating for years. The bulk of our funds, however, are raised by the veterans collecting at London mainline railway stations and football clubs. Dressed in their uniforms with medals gleaming, there is a charming interaction between them and the public, sharing jokes and stories with commuters and tourists alike, whilst gently persuading them to part with a few coins. The generosity of the public never ceases to amaze us, nor the energy of our collectors, most of whom are their 80s and 90s. Yet despite their advanced age they will stand for hours rattling collection boxes, whatever the weather.

Of equal importance to our charity is the support given by London taxi drivers, who year in year out supply their time and vehicles without charge. Without London cabbies the LTBAWD simply could not function. Unsurprisingly many of these drivers have formed strong bonds with the veterans. Whether it be a lift for a hospital appointment, a day trip to Worthing or week in France, a driver will be there to help. Planning for Normandy 2017 is well under way. We are all too aware that this will almost certainly be our last ever opportunity to take WWII veterans there, to thank them and pay our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

You can vote for the London Taxi Benevolent Association for War Disabled by visiting www. lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards or call 0844 836 9712 (calls cost 5p max. A connection charge may be applied by some networks). Voting closes 20th July. Thank you. Ian Parsons Vice Chairman, LTBAWD

For further information please visit our website: www.taxicharity.org

www.thesuburbcircular.co.uk

Education & politics

MY THOUGHTS ON THE OUTCOME OF ANDREW DISMORE LABOUR LONDON ASSEMBLY MEMBER FOR BARNET AND CAMDEN

irst, a few words about the second referendum call, supported by millions of outraged people. I understand their frustrations, but I think it is the wrong thing at the wrong time. In the unlikely event that there were to be a rerun, then the result could be worse. We have to respect the outcome. The opportunity to examine the detailed implications will come soon. A General Election in the Autumn must follow, after a new Prime Minister has been appointed by the Conservative Party. I hope that our European partners will accept that the formal process (‘Article 50’) should not commence till then, and after an election has given a clear mandate on how to address the consequences of the vote. The referendum has exposed deep fractures in our society: geographic, intergenerational, class, ethnicity and many others, divisions exploited by demagogues.. Many saw the referendum as the chance to express their alienation and dissatisfaction. The cause has its roots in the fallout from austerity and its impact on public services,

the Suburb Circular • JULY 2016

for which immigration became a convenient scapegoat. The consequences we are now seeing include an increase in hate crime. By the Autumn, the early economic consequences will become increasingly clear : It is not just a case of more expensive foreign travel unless the pound recovers (which seems unlikely), but prices will rise as the impact of higher fuel prices affect not just motorists, but feed through into transportation costs for all other goods; and the cost of imports of all types will rise. The consequences for London’s financial services’ contribution to the economy cannot be underestimated. We have to ensure that the country does not leave the single market, for which the referendum did not give a mandate. This is why Sadiq Khan is right to demand that London has a seat at the EU exit negotiating table, to do the best we can to minimise the impact on our capital’s economy and by extension, the nation’s. Although most of the rest of the country voted the other way to London, they are heavily dependent on the resources

generated by and in London. Overall, London provides a net subsidy (money raised in London but spent elsewhere) of 20.3 per cent of GDP, so one pound in every five earned by Londoners is used to fund the rest of the country. If London were a country, our economy would place us 11th largest among EU countries. The result makes irresistible the case for much more devolution to London so that we can address the consequences, given that the London economy is so different from most of the rest of the country. London Government also needs to find common cause with the other ‘remain voting’ big cities, including Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and Newcastle, and work, so far as it is London’s interests to do so, with Scotland too.

IF LONDON WERE A COUNTRY, OUR ECONOMY WOULD PLACE US 11TH LARGEST AMONG EU COUNTRIES.

HEALTH & FITNESS

The Optometrist Speaks About:

EYE

By DAVID HILLEL BURNS

It’s possible for eyes to be perfectly healthy and fully able to function, yet not see very well. That’s amblyopia. Thankfully it’s usually just one of a pair, though occasionally it’s both. In amblyopia, even with the best specs or contacts, the eyesight is still not good.

“Lazy Eye” is streetspeak - its proper name is “amblyopia”. It’s not fair to call an eye “lazy” because, if amblyopia is spotted early enough and treated, much of the sight can be saved.

from it. So, a ‘lazy eye’ sees but weakly, not so well as such a fit and healthy eye normally sees. For more about lazy eye, see the next issue. To book an appointment, for a professional consultation, phone David on 0208 444 2233 or email him at info@davidhillel.co.uk.

The reason why an eye gets to be amblyopic is because the brain supresses the signals it receives

David is always happy to answer questions from local people about eyesight. David@Davidhillel.co.uk 119 East Finchley High Road 020 8444 2233

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There may be no lazy eyes, only neglected ones.

azy Eye” is the main eye problem for young people. It’s more serious than blurriness simply relieved by wearing specs or contact lenses, and is a lifelong disadvantage. In the UK, “lazy eye” affects more people than all other eye problems put together.

Education & politics

the Suburb Circular â&#x20AC;¢ JULY 2016

“Leg ready” For The Summer? Education & politics

HEALTH & FITNESS

Varicose Vein Surgery at Highgate Private Hospital

Get your legs ready for the summer holidays

Are you suffering from issues related to Varicose Veins?

The benefits of Varicose Vein Surgery can include: • Elimination of unsightly thread veins & spider veins • Relief from inflammation and discomfort • Smoother with from no bulging veins If you arelegs suffering unsightly veins, inflammation, pain or discomfort in your legs, • Improved self-esteem Varicose Vein Surgery at Highgate Private Hospital Varicose Veins are caused by weakened valves may be the answer. which means blood becomes trapped instead of Varicose Vein Surgery can help: flowing freely. This makes the veins stand out l Eliminate thread & spider prominently from under your veins skin. l factors Relieve discomfort and pain Many can contribute to Varicose Veins, including pregnancy, ageing l Minimise bulging veins and gaining weight and they will not disappear without treatment. At Highgate Private Hospital, we have expert Fortunately, Varicose Vein Surgery is a relatively Consultant Vascular Surgeons and onsite Diagnostic easy procedure that takes approximately an hour to Services for scans or investigations. perform. We offer two treatment options: There are two treatment options: Laser Ablation l Laser Ablation (EVLT) (EVLT) or Venefit™ (previously known as VNUS). l will Venefit™ (previously known VNUS) Veins and These reduce and close yourasVaricose the blood will reroute through the healthy vessels.

Your Consultant will advise you on the most appropriate treatment for you. We offer expert Consultant Vascular Surgeons as well as onsite Diagnostic Services for any scans or further investigations.

Your consultantall willpatients discuss what treatment option We welcome whether insured, NHS isfunded best foror you. Consultations available 6 days paying for theirare own treatment. a week, early and late. Please contact us on 0208 108 for further information to book anHighgate Do 4708 you have private medical or insurance? appointment. Private Hospital is approved by all major medical insurers. We welcome all patients whether insured or paying

for their own treatment. Paying for your own treatment? Highgate Private IfHospital you are concerned the total cost has highlyabout competitive, all of inclusive and treatment, put prices. your mind at ease with our fixed price transparent self-pay packages. We have packages for Varicose Vein Surgery starting from £650. For more information, please visit our website: www.highgatehospital.co.uk/patient-information/ guide-prices

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To book an appointment for a consultation and further advice call us on 020 7965 7234 To book an appointment or for further advice call email enquiries@highgatehospital.co.uk or visit www.highgatehospital.co.uk/SC us on 0208 108 4708 or visit www.highgatehospital.co.uk

HEALTH & FITNESS

JUNIOR DOCTOR’S by TOMASZ PIERSCIONEK

ast month the BMA’s 45,000 junior doctor members voted on whether to accept the terms of a new contract unveiled in May, following talks between the union and government representatives. The BMA’s Junior Doctors Committee (JDC) had decided not to formally advise its members how to vote. In the past several weeks, junior doctors have passionately debated the new contract’s merits amongst themselves. Whilst some asserted that the new deal was the best offer available, others expressed concern that the deal still fell short of the status quo. The “best you can get” deal is not necessarily the same as a good one.

DESPITE A BASIC PAY RISE OF AROUND 10 PER CENT, DOCTORS WILL EARN LESS FOR WEEKENDS AND NIGHTS, WHICH MAY RESULT IN SOME GETTING LESS THAN THEY CURRENTLY EARN.

ACCORDING TO THE NEW CONTRACT, weekend working hours would be paid at the same rate as weekdays, though doctors would receive a pay supplement for working weekends, ranging from 0 per cent for working less than oneeighth of weekends through to 10 per cent for working up to half of all weekends. Pay for working nights shifts would be reduced. The method of determining a junior doctor’s basic pay will also change from being based upon length of service to grade attained. Despite a basic pay rise of around 10 per cent, doctors will earn less for weekends and nights, which may result in some getting less than they currently earn. Likewise, under the new contract, there will be no increase in pay for the most senior junior doctors working between the grades ST3 and ST8, which can take up to five years, despite an increase in responsibility and medical defence fees during that time. However, a few specialities such as A&E and psychiatry, within which a recruitment and retention crisis exists, would receive a small additional yearly pay supplement. Each NHS trust shall also be allocated a guardian to ensure working hours are monitored and trusts fined if these are breached.

However, it appears that a single guardian may be responsible for monitoring the rotas and working hours of a few hundred doctors at a time and how effective they will be in practice remains to be seen. Junior doctors have also raised concerns that less-thanfull-time (LTFT) doctors may lose out financially under the new contract as well as inadequate protection for whistle blowing. ON THE 5TH JULY, it was announced that 58% of voting junior doctors had rejected the new contract, whilst 42% voted in favour. Voter turnout was 68%. After the results were declared, Johann Malawana, chair of the BMA’s Junior Doctors Committee, announced his resignation. IN A LETTER TO MEMBERS, he stated: “I was hopeful that the resulting contract would be acceptable to our amazing membership. However, I believe the fundamental breakdown in trust caused by the government’s actions over the last five years has resulted in a situation where no solution is possible, particularly when a government is so keen to declare victory over frontline staff ”. He encapsulated the views of many doctors and NHS staff in his comment: “As we lurch headlong into a wider crisis of

this government’s making, I worry that a government that frankly could never be trusted with the NHS, now has every excuse to dismantle it, underfund it and undermine it.”

fight the imposition. In order to best achieve this we will be consulting you both on the contract and on ongoing action.” Also on the 6th July, Jeremy Hunt stated in parliament that the new contract would be imposed, in a phased manner, on various subgroups of junior doctors between October 2016 and October 2017.

A DAY AFTER Dr Malawana gave notice, fellow JDC member Ellen McCourt was appointed as interim BMA junior doctors committee chair until fresh elections are held in September. Dr McCourt asserted that the “JDC has agreed to continue to

PRIOR TO THIS latest development, the BMA was already sailing in unchartered waters. Now we have gone a step beyond. Over the past several months, the BMA has received huge support from the public and across the trade union movement.

A few days ago, Dr Malawana sent an official letter to the General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers expressing solidarity with the NUT’s recent strike action. Individuals and groups of doctors have, outside of the official capacity of the BMA, forged strong links with other healthcare workers, unions, and the wider labour movement. No one can say for certain how events will unfold in the coming weeks. We live in interesting times. Tomasz Pierscionek Junior doctor at Edgware Community Hospital and member of the BMA.

HEALTH & FITNESS

MIGRAINE A

migraine is a severe headache with symptoms which may include a throbbing pain affecting the front or side of the head, nausea, vomiting and light sensitivity. Each migraine can last from four hours to three days. Migraines are common, affecting around one in every five women and around one in every 15 men in the UK.

WHAT CAUSES MIGRAINE HEADACHES? The exact causes of migraine headaches are unknown, but the headaches are linked to changes in the brain as well as to genetic causes. Experts believe that migraines may be caused by inherited abnormalities in certain areas of the brain. People with migraines may inherit the tendency to be affected by certain migraine triggers including fatigue, bright lights and weather changes. Additional possible triggers include: l Emotional stress l Sensitivity to specific chemicals and preservatives in food. Certain foods, beverages and food additives may be responsible for triggering up to 30% of migraines. Mature cheeses, alcoholic beverages, nitrates (sometimes found in processed meats), and monosodium glutamate (MSG) have been linked to migraines. l Caffeine. Excessive caffeine

the Suburb Circular â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 2016

consumption or withdrawal from caffeine can cause headaches when the caffeine level abruptly drops. The blood vessels seem to become sensitised to caffeine. When caffeine is not ingested, a headache may occur. Caffeine itself is often helpful in treating acute migraine attacks. l Changing weather conditions. Storm fronts, barometric pressure changes, strong winds and altitude changes have been linked to migraines. l Menstrual periods l Tension l Excessive fatigue l Skipping meals l Changes in normal sleep patterns

TYPES OF MIGRAINES There are several types of migraine headaches, including: l MIGRAINE WITH AURA (classic migraine): This type is usually preceded by an aura. Most often, an aura is a visual disturbance (outlines of lights or jagged light images). This type of migraine is usually much worse than a common migraine. l MIGRAINE WITHOUT AURA (common migraine): This type accounts for 80% of migraine headaches. There is no aura before a common migraine. l STATUS MIGRAINOSUS: This is the term used to describe a long-lasting migraine that does not go away on its own.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MIGRAINES? The pain of a migraine can be described as a pounding or throbbing. The headache often begins as a dull ache and develops into a throbbing pain. The pain is usually aggravated by physical activity. Migraine pain can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Some other associated symptoms of migraine headachesinclude: l Sensitivity to light, noise and odours l Nausea and vomiting, stomach upset, abdominal pain l Loss of appetite l Sensations of being very warm or cold l Paleness l Fatigue l Dizziness l Blurred vision HOW ARE MIGRAINES TREATED? People with migraine headaches can manage mild-to-moderate attacks at home with the following strategies: l Applying a cold compress to the area of pain l Resting with pillows comfortably supporting the head or neck l Drinking a moderate amount of caffeine l Trying certain over-thecounter headache medications

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BEAUTY & FASHION

Migraines can be treated in two ways: with abortive therapy or preventive therapy. The goal of abortive therapy is to prevent a migraine attack or to stop it once it starts. Some abortive therapies include: l Resting in a room with little or no sensory stimulation (light, sound, odours) l Withdrawing from stressful surroundings l Sleeping When these efforts do not help, migraine headaches may be eased with prescription medications.

the Suburb Circular â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 2016

Analgesics like ibuprofen and paracetamol. Anti-emetic medication may be required. Triptans (5HT1 agonists) reverse the widening of blood vessels that is believed to cause the headache and incude almotriptan, eletriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan and zolmitriptan. Ergot alkaloids like ergotamine

tartrate. Preventive treatments are considered if migraine headaches occur more than once a week. These medications are meant to lessen the frequency and severity of the migraine attacks. Preventive treatment medications include: Medications used to treat high blood pressure such as propranolol and verapamil. Antidepressants such as amitriptyline. Antiseizure medications such as topiramate and gabapentin. Some other medications such as methysergide and pizotifen.

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the Suburb Circular â&#x20AC;˘ JUNE 2016

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GIFTS &events

Harry Biderman He invented an original concept for his living photographs, using live raw objects like flowers and rocks, lit with fluorescent LED lights, overheated and when they explode, he captured those images.

ART PHOTO

The Rafael Collection

ach of these artists you see are supported and represented by the Rafael collection - a new bespoke art advisory project, founded by Rafi Rosenfeld in 2015 after working for renowned art advisor Lucien Krief in Jerusalem. Rafi is a young artist and collector himself, so he really lives his work. Rafi specialises in working with the finest , young, emerging contemporary Israeli artistic talent and an important Russian artist. Each artist is very special in the sense that they are all deeply spiritual which shines through their works!

the Suburb Circular • JULY 2016

The artists works will be some of the most avant garde and provocative you’ll ever see, yet at the same time they have a profound meaning and depth to them! The Rafael collection in just over a year has sold works to the Sotheby’s Tel-Aviv collection, made a show of one of the artists works at a private charity dinner with President Sarkozy, Mikhail Fridman & Ronald Lauder, The works from the collection are housed in some of the most important collectors homes in the north London community, Zurich,Moscow & Israel.

Shai Yehezkelli Creates works using organic raw materials. Loves working on huge scale, Injects his work with alot of ancient mysticism. Uses natural pigment to make his work alive.

Alexander Aizenshtat

First living artist to have a show at the Pushkin museum - considered one of the most important museums in the world. Aizenshtat is the most in demand artist amongst the oligarch community in Moscow.

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GIFTS &events

The Rafael Collection continued

Alexander Aizenshtat The Rafael collection has sold works to the Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tel-Aviv collection and are sold through a new concept of Dinner and Art party soirees. A noted collector will kindly host the evening in their home, with sumptuous food and live classical musical performances played by young talent. Abundant blessings, The Rafael Collection

The Rafael Collection www.therafaelcollection.com

the Suburb Circular â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 2016

SUMMER EVENTS in the Hampstead area

l SUNDAY BANDSTANDS

l ELVIS ON THE HEATH

l GIVE IT A GO FESTIVAL

This is 1950’s USA rock’n’roll music with Jonny Ford and the Edsels

Taking place every Sunday from 3pm at both Golders Hill Park & Parliament Hill

Taking place on Sunday 17th July from 1.00pm - 5.30pm at Parliament Hill Fields NW5 1QR Take part in games, sports coaching, children’s activities, displays, music at the bandstand

l A TRIBUTE TO MARGOT

FONTEYN Taking place on Sunday 17th July at 3.30pm at JW3, 341-351 Finchley Road, NW3 6ET Paying tribute to her artistry, inspiration & legacy with film excerpts, discussion, a masterclass & a performance. Tickets - £20 / to book call 020 7433 8988

l BEYOND WATERCOLOUR

GARDENS: EXHIBITION Helen Allingham Revisited at Burgh House & Hampstead Museum

Taking place on Friday 22nd July at 7.00pm at the Parliament Hill Fields Bandstand NW5 1QR

l HARRY POTTER & THE

CURSED CHILD LAUNCH Taking place on Saturday 30th July at 11.00pm at Waterstones Bookshop, 68-69 Hampstead High Street, Hampstead, NW3 1QP with The Midnight Launch Party. Pre-order the book and collect it at Midnight. EVENTS FURTHER AFIELD IN LONDON L The Festival of Love at The Southbank centre until August the 29th. L Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition until the 21st of August L The Buckingham Palace Tour

www.thesuburbcircular.co.uk

HOME & GARDEN

HOW secure is your door?

73% of burglaries are through the door T

he biggest rise in these is by the method of lock snapping the euro cylinders normally found on UVPC and Aluminium doors. These cylinders look like the picture below But they can be snapped in seconds

Even if you have an expensive door with a great multipoint lock in it, it is all controlled by the cylinder that operates it. Burglars don’t tend to ram doors, they will try to disable the multipoint lock by breaking the cheap cylinder lock. About from the basic euro cylinders, you can get basic anti snap cylinders, 1 star anti snap cylinders and 3 star anti snap cylinders. The basic anti snap and

1 star anti snap do help protect your door but they haven’t gone through the same tests as a 3 star cylinder.

It is possible to get a 1 star accredited lock and even a kite mark without it having been tested for snap protection. 3 star locks go through much harder tests but only a few of those go through the Master Locksmiths Association test called Solid Secure Diamond 312. One of the best 3 star cylinders available is called Ultion as shown below There is an industry standard now for these locks which is known as TS007 3 Star and some insurance policies have started saying that to be insured UVPC doors need to meet this requirement.

There are two ways to meet this requirement. One is to have a 1 star rated euro cylinder with a two star rated set of handles. The alternative and cheaper option is just to have a 3 star rated cylinder. The Ultion as mentioned before is one of the best available and comes with restricted keys that only an authorised dealer can cut. It also has 11 pins protecting it, where as most others only have 5 or 6 pins. It is protected against lock drilling, lock bumping and lock picking as well. No test has beaten the Ultion and they give a £1000 guarantee if an intruder burgles your home by snapping an Ultion lock.

If you require any further information on these locks or would like a FREE security check of your property, please give me a call on 07970 073115 or 01923 852757 Phil Lyons, B&C Security Services

the Suburb Circular • JULY 2016

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4 HOME & GARDEN

Easy steps

TO GROW YOUR OWN

By rICHARD LUDWIG

f you are a hobby gardener, you may be dreaming about fresh organic vegetables. It is easier than it seems with a few simple steps. I discovered that vegetable gardening requires good planning and proper preparation for a successful harvest.

Step 1 - BED AND BORDER PLANNING:

Whether squash, tomatoes or lettuce, healthy plants have needs. Since most vegetables need a sheltered and sunny spot, growing them in the shade will be a futile effort. The size of the vegetable garden patch depends on the total size of the garden, and what vegetables you want to grow. Radishes or carrots grow well in a confined space. Significantly more space is required for potatoes, squash and cabbage. Draw a scaled plan of the bed and lay out which plants grow where. The

SOW OR PLANT THE VEGETABLES IN ROWS SPACED WIDE ENOUGH APART TO FACILITATE LATER MAINTENANCE OF THE BED. 22

the Suburb Circular â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 2016

single bed should be no wider than 11 feet to keep the center of the bed from both sides within easy reach. Enclosing the bed creates visual clarity and prevents rain from washing away the fertile topsoil. This can be done using weather resistant wood planks of larch, oak, frost-resistant bricks or natural stones. If you typically have a lot of snails in the garden, you may want to consider a special snail guard.

Step 2 - PREPARING THE SOIL: Before it goes to seeding

or planting, you need to prepare the ground. Use a garden claw to loosen up soil or mix existing dirt with nutritious top soil. You can spread a few bags of flower and vegetable topsoil on the bed. This will provide proper nutrition and good plant growth. In order to improve the nutrient content of the soil, you can also incorporate fertilizer. When in doubt conduct a pH test of the soil to avoid overfertilizing. You can get pH test strips or a soil tester at your local garden center.

Step 3 - MAKE SURE YOU HAVE GOOD NEIGHBORS: Not all

vegetables get along. For example, onions should not be planted next to green beans or cabbage. Tomatoes will grow well next to

cabbage, lettuce, spinach, parsley, and celery. You can buy seeds or small plants to start your own vegetable garden. Established plants are sometimes easier for gardening newcomers. Sow or plant the vegetables in rows spaced wide enough apart to facilitate later maintenance of the bed. Keep in mind that some vegetables like green beans or tomatoes require a trellis.

Step 4 - CULTIVATE AND HARVEST: If you plant early in the spring and the weather is still cool, cover the freshly planted and sown vegetables to protect them from frost damage. Otherwise, a vegetable is very easy to maintain. If there is no rain, just water once daily and remove the weeds in between. With a little patience and depending on your region, your own fresh vegetables can be harvested in mid to late summer. When the season is over and you want to use your vegetable patch in the next year again, it is important to give the new soil nutrients. For example, old humus from the compost is ideal for mixing the existing soil.

MOTORING & TRAVEL

SECURED FOR ELECTRIC CAR The new Plug-in Car Grant secures more funding for a greater number of electric car buyers, continuing the rapid growth ofthe UK’s electric vehicle market

he government is predicting a trebling of the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on Britain’s roads in the next two years with £400 million of cash help through its plug-in car grant. The plug-in car grant has been extended with the Department for Transport forecasting that the £400 million fund will enable more than 100,000 businesses and consumers to benefit over the coming years – double the number that claimed the grant since it was launched in 2011. To ensure the rapid growth of the UK’s electric car market over the coming months, from 1 March

revised grant levels were based on the environmental performance of cars. Electric vehicles have been divided into three categories with two grant rates available – £4,500 for Category 1 models and £2,500 for Category 2 and 3 models which are typically plug-in hybrid vehicles with a petrol or diesel engine: • CARS IN CATEGORY 1 are those with CO2 emissions of less than 50g/ km and a zero emission range of at least 70 miles • CATEGORY 2 CARS have CO2 emissions of less than 50g/ km and a zero emission range of

between 10 and 69 miles • CATEGORY 3 CARS have CO2 emissions of 50-75g/km and a zero emission range of at least 20 miles. The Department for Transport has said that grants will be maintained at those levels until March 2018, or until a prescribed number of each type of vehicle have been sold, whichever is the sooner. The trigger points for a further review of grant levels will be 40,000 Category 1 cars, and 45,000 combined sales of Category 2 and 3 models. Those numbers include cars sold before March 2016. As of December 2015, 23,000 claims had been submitted for Category 1 cars and 28,000 claims for Category 2 and 3 models. Additionally, to encourage zero emission vehicle demand and maximise the number of cars qualifying for government support, a price cap has been introduced. Category 2 and 3 models with a listprice of more than £60,000 will not be eligible for the grant, but all Category 1 vehicles will be eligible for the full £4,500 grant. Transport Minister Andrew

the Suburb Circular • JULY 2016

Jones said: “The UK is a world leader in the uptake of low emission vehicles and the plug-in car grant has been key to that success. We are determined to keep Britain at the forefront of the technology, increasing our support for plug-in vehicles.”

embracing this new, green technology. When you consider the ‘in-life’ costs savings associated with plug-in car ownership – such as lower tax, fuel and maintenance – the electric vehicle proposition is extremely attractive.”

The UK is also a leader in the roll-out of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, such as the Toyota Mirai – which is eligible for the £4,500 grant thanks to its zero tailpipe emissions.

Motor manufacturers welcomed the Government’s continuation of grant aid, which has helped Britain become the fastestgrowing market for EVs in Europe. Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), said: “Manufacturers are offering increasing numbers of these vehicles – but a consistently applied incentive regime is still needed over the coming years to help consumers adopt these ground-breaking technologies.

The Government has made a commitment that all cars and vans on the road in the UK will be zero emission by 2050. Poppy Welch, Head of the Go Ultra Low campaign, said: “The new plug-in car grant secures more funding for a greater number of plug-in car buyers, continuing the rapid growth of the UK’s electric vehicle market. “The new grant levels reflect the lower purchase price of these vehicles and remains an excellent purchase incentive for motorists

“The changes to the regime will need effective management and SMMT looks forward to working with government to ensure the planning needs of manufacturers and consumers – both fleet and private – are met.”

Ken Ramirez, then Managing Director, Renault UK, and recently promoted to the post of senior vice-president, sales and marketing for Europe, said: “Differentiating ULEVs into three categories and placing a clear £2,000 financial benefit for choosing the most environmentally friendly Category 1 vehicles over the other two categories, is recognition that the UK sees a strong future in zero tailpipe emission vehicles and the air quality benefits they offer. “The changes to the grant will help to encourage even more motorists to consider moving to a zero tailpipe emissions vehicle thanks to its remarkable affordability and to also enjoy the revolutionary driving experience they provide.” The ‘cost’ of the plug-in vehicle is the full purchase price paid for the basic vehicle – including number plates, Vehicle Excise Duty and VAT. It doesn’t include any optional extras, eg delivery charges or first registration fee.

DID YOU KNOW? A £400 MILLION FUND WILL ENABLE MORE THAN 100,000 BUSINESSES AND CONSUMERS TO BENEFIT

www.thesuburbcircular.co.uk

Business & Finance

CRASH FOR Top 10 hotspots revealed By JAMES WALKER WWW.RESOLVER.CO.UK

James walker “FIGHTING FOR YOUR RIGHTS” Consumer Champion – the man who helps you resolve your consumer complaints!

s Birmingham is given the dubious honour of becoming Britain’s ‘crash-for-cash’ capital, we look at how this scam could affect you, and reveal the top tips on how to avoid becoming a victim You’d better take extra care when driving around Birmingham. A recent survey by insurance giant Aviva has revealed that a quarter of all ‘deliberate crash’ insurance scams take place in the West Midlands city. But the problem isn’t limited to Birmingham. In fact, Aviva alone recorded more than 3,000 deliberate crash-for-cash frauds in 2015. That equates to one every three hours. Just for claims handled by Aviva…

accidents with other drivers in order to claim compensation for whiplash and other injuries. The number of these fell by 2% in 2015 compared with the record high of the previous year. STAGED ACCIDENTS The other type of issue is ‘staged accidents’. These are less dangerous than claiming from innocent motorists, as they involve pre-damaged cars set up

to look as if there’s been a crash. Conversely, the number of these bogus accidents detected by Aviva fell by 40%, as tougher fraud prevention tools at the point of sale have stopped fraudsters accessing Aviva’s products. THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY’S VIEW: Tom Gardiner, Aviva’s Head

The top 10 hotspots 2015 Top 10 Crash for Cash Locations 2014 rank 1. Birmingham

1st

2. North London

3rd

3. East London

New entrant

SO WHAT IS A CRASH-FORCASH SCAM? These fall into two basic categories – so-called induced accidents and ‘staged’ crashes.

4. Leeds

5th

5. Harrow

7th

INDUCED ACCIDENTS These are the most frustrating form of crash scam for innocent motorists, where fraudulent claimants deliberately cause

the Suburb Circular • JULY 2016

6. North West London

8th

7. Bradford

9th

8. Luton

2nd

9. Coventry

New entrant

10. Oldham

New entrant

Business & Finance

IN FACT, AVIVA ALONE RECORDED MORE THAN 3,000 DELIBERATE CRASH-FOR-CASH FRAUDS IN 2015. THAT EQUATES TO ONE EVERY THREE HOURS. JUST FOR CLAIMS HANDLED BY AVIVA...

“We support the proposals outlined by the Chancellor in the Autumn Statement, which included Aviva’s call for removing compensation from minor, short-term injuries. We believe this will end the gravy train for fraudsters, and we have pledged to pass 100% of the savings from the reforms on to our customers.” HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE CRASH-SCAMMERS l Stay alert: Pay attention to your driving and the cars/traffic around you l Keep your distance: Keep a safe

of Fraud, said: “We remain very concerned that fraudsters continue to put their own greed ahead of innocent motorists’ safety. Our figures show induced accidents now account for nearly half of all organised motor fraud we detect. “Crash for cash does not just push up premiums for genuine customers, it puts innocent motorists at risk. It is also a significant drain on scarce public resources such as ambulance, police and A&E time, all of which are wasted on these entirely bogus claims. The number of whiplash claims is a problem unique to the UK and needs urgent reform.

distance between your vehicle and the one in front. l Roundabouts and slip roads:

fraudsters target roundabouts and slip roads to induce accidents; be especially vigilant in these areas, allowing plenty of space l Two cars ahead: there are frequently

two cars involved in inducing an accident – the car directly in front and the car in front of that car as well. Both may drive erratically. Allow plenty of space between you and the two cars in front. l Check the brake lights: A common

trait in many vehicles involved in ‘crash for cash’ is failure of the vehicle’s brake lights. If you notice the car in front brakes and their lights don’t work, remain cautious. l Warning signs: Is the car in front

moving particularly slowly or is it slowing down and speeding up for no apparent reason?

induce an accident. l Collision Damage: Does the car in front

look like it has been in other accidents – especially showing damage to its rear? WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE IN AN ACCIDENT AND ARE SUSPICIOUS IT MAY BE FRAUDULENT: l Stay calm. Don’t argue with the driver of the other vehicle and/or their passengers. l Call the Police immediately while you

are still at the scene of the accident, inform them you suspect the accident is a crash for cash scam and ask them to attend the scene l Don’t admit liability to the other driver,

passenger or anyone else that appears to be connected to them at the scene of the accident. Don’t agree to liability in writing, either. l Capture as much information as

possible at the scene (the make, model and registration number of the other vehicle, time, date, location and weather conditions at the time of the accident, names and addresses of the driver or passengers of the other car. l Take pictures or video, capturing

any damage (or lack thereof) to the other vehicle and the scene of the accident l Contact your insurer immediately

after the accident to advise them of your suspicions and to provide them with all the information you have recorded. Keep a record of the information you supply to your insurer in case it is needed in the future.

l Passenger Behaviour: Are the

James Walker is the founder of online complaint-resolution service Resolver.co.uk

passengers in the vehicle in front turning around and looking at you for no reason? They may be looking for a chance to

Follow James via @resolvercouk, or email James@resolver.co.uk www.thesuburbcircular.co.uk