Wharf Life, Jan 10-24, 2024 by wharf-life

+ Trying tipples that won’t leave you feeling rough the day after Page 6

Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

bound for

how the SS Robin has been returned to 150m from where she was built on the Thames to start a new chapter in her life at Trinity Buoy Wharf - P26

celebrating the best of Canary Wharf, Docklands and the new east London people - events - treasure - property - foolishness

inside issue 104

Sudoku - Creative Virtual Winter Lights 2024 Restaurant Guide Halifax Price Index East River Wharf Woolwich Works Barge East Crossword Katie Norris - Jay Bennett NASSA - Dommy B

Image by Simon Richards

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The Great Indoors

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read

feast your eyes on these

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Boisdale Of Canary Wharf Cabot Place

GIG | Odyssey The American soul and disco outfit promise a set of hits including Native New Yorker, Looking For A Way Out, Going Back To My Roots and Use It Up. Jan 26 , 9.30pm, from £29, boisdale.co.uk

Welcome to issue 104 of Wharf Life. Wishing all our readers a Happy New Year and best wishes for 2024. The 12 months ahead come with much promise including the dazzling sepectacle of the free Winter Lights festival, tantalising prospects at Woolwich Works and the SS Robin’s latest chapter...

Try a few alcohol-free options and avoid those sore heads the next day

Where? Museum Of London Docklands West India Quay

LATE | Petticoat Lane To Savile Row This late opening of the museum’s Fashion City exhibition boasts talks, workshops, curator tours and film screenings alongside the exhibits. Feb 15, 7pm, £20, museumoflondon.org.uk

Are you ready for Winter Lights? Plan trips with our guide

Where? Boisdale Of Canary Wharf Cabot Place

GIG | Omar The R’n’B artist returns to the Cabot Place with a set filled with music and lyrics that are smooth as silk. Expect There’s Nothing Like This to get an outing. Feb 1-2, 9.30pm, from £29, boisdale.co.uk

How global conversational AI leader Creative Virtual is taming the voice of the machine as large language models proliferate from its base in Canary Wharf

flash back

New to the Wharf? Find a few tips on venues for humans and dogs

the joy of six

35 This is Candace Bushnell, author and journalist, who is bringing True Tales Of Sex, Success And Sex And The City to the London Palladium (a few stops on the Liz Line) on February 7. Book now as tickets are going fast lwtheatre.co.uk Scan this code to read our interview with Candace about the show and the creation of Carrie Bradshaw want more? @wharfwhispers

Burns Night on a boat? Whyever not? Barge East prepare the drams

How East River Wharf is offering ways to get on the ladder in Docklands

Every issue Wharf Life covers six areas surrounding Canary Wharf to bring you the best of what’s going on beyond the estate From Page 26

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Exciting news for Wood Wharf’s culinary scene. The men behind Fallow and Fowl are set to open Roe at Five Park Drive in the spring. Dishes at the 350-cover restaurant will feature underused produce from the British Isles. Stay tuned for opening dates roerestaurant.co.uk

Head to Platform in Crossrail Place on weekdays in January for 90 minutes of gaming at the unbeatable price of £5. Book online, terms and conditions apply experienceplatform.co.uk

Dommy B promises poetry, stories and noise in Limehouse

Head to optician Tom Davies in Cabot Place and discover the brand’s range of glow-in-thedark and UV colour change glasses that celebrate the release of Wonka – a great way to extend the magic of the film by putting it on your face. £170 per pair iwearbritain.com

Catch works in progress at The Pen Theatre in Bermondsey this month

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30%

We sit down with Woolwich Works director Nick Williams to find out what’s in store for the venue over the coming year – he’s pretty keen on a mammoth dog show

Stratford Nikkei cuisine restaurant Bamboo Mat is offering 30% off its zingy, colourful food until January 31. The offer is also valid at its Leyton branch. bamboo-mat.co.uk

time marked

NASSA takes on the Met for 15 years of CABNAB

Experiences Made Better Human Conversational AI

That’s been done for you. Anything else I can help you with?

Leaders in conversational AI. Helping your customers first time, anytime, everytime.

Newham All Star Sports Academy is set to take on serving police officers in a symbolic game of basketball this month as it marks 15 years of its Carry A Basketball Not A Blade campaign, fighting knife crime in partnership with the Met. We interview CABNAB founder Anthony Okereafor

Book your demo at www.creativevirtual.com || info@creativevirtual.com || 020 7719 8332

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

write me

words you don’t know you need

placebover noun, fake, from Scots subscribe to our Wharf Whispers newsletter and get our content in your inbox fortnightly

The hangover symptoms acquired from a night out on the Wharf drinking non-alcoholic beverages that psychologically trick one into believing they could be the real thing. Expect fake dehydration and unreal fuzziness Above, wines at Gaucho, right, alcohol-free mocktails at Gallio and, below, drinks at Feels Like June

try these tipples for headache-free Wharf nights out

brontide

noun, real, from Ancient Greek The low rumble of distant thunder that may be seismic in origin. Perhaps something that Fujitsu is beginning to appreciate as the call for justice for Post Office workers who fell foul of its Horizon system gathers strength

oing Dry January? Have a big meeting this week? Prefer to get your empty calories from Pringles (ahem)? Whatever your reason for not drinking alcohol, the range of non-alcoholic beverages that mirror traditional drinks but are guaranteed to come without the hangover is greater than ever. So, whether you are abstaining for a few weeks following all the parties, are sober curious, or just don’t fancy any booze, we’ve had a wander around the Wharf to try what’s on offer. Wild Idol Sparkling Rosé - £6.50 Thomson And Scott Noughty White - £6.50 Gaucho Westferry Circus, gauchorestaurants.com >> Gaucho is our first port of call, overlooking the Thames. It boasts a solid no alcohol section on its menu, featuring rosé fizz, white and red wines. There are also several alcohol-free spirit mixers. The pink fizz looks the part and actually has a bit of dryness to it, similar to a pink Champagne. There is a pleasant aftertaste of summer fruits too. It’s almost hard to believe there’s no alcohol in the mix.

Have you helped your loved ones to help you?

Black Cherry Cooler - £4.50 Pomegranate Rose Fizz - £4.50 Gallio Atrium Kitchen, Cabot Place, gallio.uk >> I love the taste of the cooler. While it is more of a refreshing juice than a proper cocktail – albeit strongly flavoured with its namesake fruit – it gets points for being a delicious treat that’s exclusive to the venue. The same goes for the Pomegranate Rose Fizz, though there’s some disappointment that it doesn’t come in a flute. That would make it more fun as a mocktail.

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Green Boulevard - £9 Red Vibrance - £9 Feels Like June Wood Wharf, feelslikejune.com >> These are the grown-ups of the group, made with alcohol-free spirit, Seedlip. The Green Boulevard boasts a bouquet of flavours making this drink taste healthy and complex – not unlike an actual cocktail, albeit one that is very good at hiding the sting of its alcohol content. The Red Vibrance was also sharp, with plenty of the promised grapefruit coming through, alongside vanilla, apple and jasmine. A very sophisticated affair. Researched by Jessica and Nadia Maddison

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Years since Chris Ezekiel founded Creative Virtual in east London

how Creative Virtual has embraced the rise of generative AI to deliver solutions and new products for clients by Jon Massey

harf Life newspaper was founded by Archant, a publishing company, to serve the area around Canary Wharf,” states ChatGPT 3.5, confidently, when asked who created this paper. It sounds plausible, going on to say: “Archant is a well-established media company with a history of creating local newspapers and publications”. This demonstrates one of the issues inherent with AI large language models. They are prone to making things up. Wharf Life was founded by Massey Maddison Ltd in 2019 and has no connection to Archant – a business that used to run the East London And Docklands Advertiser before it collapsed into administration and was subsequently taken over by US-owned media firm Newsquest. Imagine, for a minute, that my question had been about something much more important than the vanity of asking about this newspaper – that the answer given might have serious consequences for me or the organisation I’m contacting through a chatbot. With AI finding its way into all sorts of areas of life – including Newsquest’s reporting, incidentally – trust becomes an issue that should be uppermost in the minds of those interacting with it, either as readers or customers. It’s a topic that’s been on the mind of Chris Ezekiel and his team at Creative Virtual for some time. He founded the conversational artificial intelligence company on the Isle Of Dogs 20 years ago, investing its profits to grow it into a global business that won the Queen’s Award For Enterprise in 2017. Now based in Canary Wharf, the firm is considered a leader in its field, competing with the likes of Microsoft, IBM and Google in a sector that until 12 months ago was largely below the public radar. That all changed in 2022 with the public release of ChatGPT – an event that sent the world giddy with the prospect of what large language models might be capable of. “It’s been a seismic shift for our sector,” said Chris, who is based at 25 Cabot Square. “We’d been looking at these models for about

three years but everybody was surprised by the impact that this launch by OpenAI had. “What’s been amazing has been the proliferation of other big companies coming out with their own competitive versions. “One of the things about running an independent company in the way we do is that you have to keep making profit to invest. This makes the choices you make as founder and CEO more critical. “There are always ups and downs when running a company – my role is to make sure there are more highs than lows. “However, our setup also means that we can take a longer term view when it comes to developing products, alongside the way we work with our customers and the commercial models we adopt. “One of the things that’s been a massive success for us this year, strategically, is that we immediately offered all our customers completely free proof of concepts related to using this technology to serve their customers and employees – running large language models alongside our chatbot technology. “It was about asking how they could be used and what the concerns might be. At launch, they were much more susceptible to getting stuff wrong and making things up with no way of telling where those errors came from. “So it was about working with our clients to establish what the challenges were. Many had seen the models and thought they could save a fortune – writing stuff for them and answering their customers’ and employees’ questions. The business teams were focused on that but then they realised the risks associated with this technology and realised it would need to involve the legal and compliance teams. “We literally saw companies developing solutions they wanted to deploy for real, while in parallel setting up ethical AI teams, who we were working with to address their concerns.” Essentially, developing those proofs of concept meant Creative Virtual – which works with the likes of HSBC and Lloyds Banking Group – learnt a great deal about what it would take to make use of the things ChatGPT and other similar models were offering in large organisations. “Three themes came out of this work – one is trust in the models and the content they create,” said

taming the

of the machine

Wharf Life Jan 10-24 2024 wharf-life.com

Canary Wharf + West India Quay

Chris and the Creative Virtual team have been working hard to harness the power of large language AI models for their clients Images by Matt Grayson – find more of his work at graysonphotos.co.uk or @mattgrayson_photo on Insta

Chris. “The second is control – to use this technology, organisations need the ability to make sure they can override the models in certain cases. For example, if a customer wanted to replace a lost credit card, you need a very structured process that is compliant, trustworthy, accurate, reproducible and consistent – all of the things we’ve always provided as a company. “There are ways to do this by training AI on the documents, policies, procedures and product information from a particular organisation. On top of that you can also create rules to override the model in certain circumstances. “The Gluon release of our V-Person technology offers a blended approach – AI created content from large language models and human-curated content, which is perfect for organisations which are trying to create accurate, trustworthy interactions. “The third theme that came up was experience. As a 20-year-old company, we know what it takes to act as AI consultants. We’ve had to change our company to be aware of all the different models that are out there. “Some of these large language models are good at some things, but not so good at others so it’s our experience that allows us to help these large organisations, who want to understand how they can be used and the benefits. “We’re focused on delivering the control and trust they need through our products and the expertise of our people, to take full advantage of this technology.” The emergence of large language models has also broadened Creative Virtual’s approach as it explores different sectors and applications for its products. “It’s changed the company a lot,” said Chris. “We worked with an accounting company in Australia – MYOB – to use generative AI to create content with a human in control to sign it off. They’ve just won a major customer experience award having followed through on a proof of concept with us to create a project. “That’s the joy we get from this kind of innovation – working very closely with customers who realise the benefits of what this tech can offer. “This type of AI can provide lots of solutions for sectors such as healthcare and government too – any organisation that has lots of documents. “Historically we’ve mostly been focused on customer services and resources for employees but we’re now starting to deploy solutions in sales. “A classic case is what

As a 20-year-old company, we know what it takes to act as AI consultants. Our V-Person technology offers a blended approach Chris Ezekiel, Creative Virtual

we’re doing on the travel side. Currently, if you walk into a travel agent, the person there helping to advise on a trip might sometimes refer to their own or a colleague’s experience. There’s no reason a chatbot couldn’t be used to do something similar – using content to show what other customers’ experiences of a destination have been like – an advocate that’s scaleable.” As for the future, Chris is excited by the prospect of further leaps forward too. “I think the physical form of AI is going to be an interesting one, like having your own robot butler which interacts with the devices in your home, such as your fridge, to keep an eye on supplies, or your smart watch to monitor vitamin intake,” said Chris. “I think that the future is joining up the AI to connected devices. People use the term hyper-personalisation, where organisations know lots of things about you. Even with issues of privacy, people often don’t mind revealing personal details if it improves their experience. “In the future, you won’t even have to think about how you interact with the AI. People are already using their voices more to control devices. “Organisations will know the context of the conversation you’re having and will switch to different channels, so you can start off on the phone, then move to the web, with everything seamlessly connected together. “We’re starting to develop architecture that will make this really easy to do. The big companies we work with talk about the composable enterprise, where we can slot all these different systems together. Organisations then don’t have to worry what’s coming from this company or that firm – they can select the technology that’s best of breed, and platforms which create an overall digital customer experience.” Go to creativevirtual.com for more information

Scan this code to find out more about Creative Virtual

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Hours the installations will be active during each day of the festival – the lights will be turned on at 5pm and off at 10pm

how Winter Lights 2024 promises large scale attractions to delight crowds of eager January visitors

inter Lights 2024 is set to return to Canary Wharf from January 17-27 with 13 temporary installations set to festoon the estate. The free-to-visit festival will also feature six permanent works and a selection of pop-up food stalls including marshmallow fire pits. Find out more below... Sign will be on show

blockb

at Westferry Circus

illuminated works the temporary installations to see

>> Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to travel to Canary Wharf to see the free installations this month, braving the chilly temperatures in search of wonder, amusement, street food and a bit of brightness in the depths of winter. Weekends are expected to be especially busy, so visiting on a weeknight is recommended. To help you plan, here are the 12 works that will form the core of the Winter Lights 2024 trail, sorted by location

Below from top, Les Oiseaux, Kinetic Perspective, On The Wave Of Light, Neuron and Vessels

WESTFERRY CIRCUS >> On The Wave Of Light (1) Kicking off the Winter Lights trail, this interactive piece by Those Guys features a series of light sticks programmed to shine more brightly in the presence of movement – watch as it captures the imprints of passers-by

scan the pink codes for locations

>> Neuron (2) Juan Fuentes is responsible for this commission, which has been inspired by the neural connections of the human brain. The 3D structure features thousands of luminous filaments, each representing a neuron with their interaction symbolising the firing of the synapses

>> Sign (3) Westferry Circus is to be set ablaze by Vendel & De Wolf’s red-lit bamboo poles. Explore the contradictions of fire as the work creates the illusion of flickering flames PS - Look for Shine Your Colours at this location WREN LANDING + CABOT SQUARE >> Les Oiseaux (4) A tribute to the wildlife and many species that inhabit London alongside the people, this work by Simon Chevalier is a simple black and white installation that aims to capture the beauty of a bird in flight through four spare and arresting sculptures. The installation is intended as a counterpoint to the colour and noise of the city

>> Marbles (5) Gertjan Adema’s installation at Wren Landing comes in the form of a giant, illuminated marble run with its spherical shape reflecting the ball inside it. Visitors can expect a meditative, almost hypnotising experience as they view the work

Marbles

ADAMS PLAZA + CROSSRAIL PLACE >> The Peace Poem (6) Originally created to mark 100 years since the first day of peace after the Second World War, Robert Montgomery’s work with Emergency Exit Arts has been seen by thousands travelling along the UK’s roads >> Vessels (7) Limbic Cinema’s three monolithic pyramids feature lasers dancing in time to melodic music as viewers look on

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Elizabeth Line

buster

Find a places to eat and drink on the Wharf, whatever your requirements - P14

prepare for the

Left, The Peace Poem and, below, In-Between and Biophillia

Squidsoup’s Submergence

is set to return to Montgomery

>> Biophillia (8) Frankie Boyle’s work promises a “captivating interplay of colours, creating an entrancing, ever-evolving spectacle >> In-Between (9) Three simple cubes on black pedestals reveal they are anything but as Daniel Popescu’s installations come to life PS - Look for Captivated By Colour, We Could Meet and Elantica at this location MONTGOMERY SQUARE >> Submergence (10) Likely to be the blockbuster attraction this year, Squidsoup’s dangling chains of glowing light were a hit in 2019 and return to Montgomery Square to delight thousands of visitors with thousands of pulsing, multicoloured lights WATER STREET + UNION SQUARE

on show in Union Square

Lien Dekyvere

old faves

catch a few stalwarts as part of the fun >> While the temporary installations are the main draw at Winter Lights, the festival is also an opportunity to revisit works from previous years held in Canary Wharf Group’s permanent collection – look out for Bit.Fall, Elantica, The Clew, Shine Your Colours, Captivated By Colour and We Could Meet on your tour through the estate

Square in Canary Wharf

Geist will be

Elantica by Tom and

>> Kinetic Perspective (11) Another Juan Fuentes piece, these spinning rings offer different shapes from varied viewpoints – a perfect stop on the way to Union Square

TOP TIPS >> Food And Drink Look for street food stalls beside Cabot Square and in Union Square on Wood Wharf. There will also be marshmallow fire pits in Jubilee Park. Restaurants are likely to be very busy, so booking ahead is advised >> Crowd Control Last year saw the estate busier, perhaps, than it’s ever been. This year a one-way system will operate with exit-only measures in place from the Jubilee line station into Reuters Plaza. Visitors are encouraged to follow the trail in order to help the event run smoothly >> In Memory This year’s Winter Lights is dedicated to Canary Wharf Group’s public art curator, Keith Watson, who died in May last year. His passion and perseverence drove and shaped the festival into what has become the estate’s most popular and widely attended event Go to canarywharf.com for more information Preview by Jon Massey

>> Geist (12) This Is Loop’s installation is inspired by the elusive neutrino, created with input from particle physicists >> Idle Time (13) Marcus Lyall returns to Winter Lights with this colossal laser showstopper projected onto the side of a building Scan this code to download the Winter Lights 2024 trail for more information

Read more about Marcus Lyall’s Idle Time via Wharf Life’s interview with the artist

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

Family-friendly restaurants to try in Canary Wharf when visiting the estate

Clockwise from top left, Wahaca, Pho, Wagamama, Zizzi, Franco Manca, Nando’s and Gallio are all to be found on the estate

finding

by Jon Massey

f last year was anything to go by, Winter Lights is likely to see an enormous number of people visit Canary Wharf – many for the first time. Restaurants and venues are likely to get booked up, so getting reservations in early will be wise between Jan 17-27. To aid in the planning process we’ve put together a selection of venues grouped by genre for your consideration, whether arranging a trip during the festival or just dropping in on the estate at any time. FAMILY DINING Winter Lights is for all-comers and there will be plenty of young people in the mix. Fortunately the Wharf has plenty of crowd-pleasers offering sit-down space and flavours to suit all ages... l Wahaca Park Pavillion wahaca.co.uk The consistent comfort of chains is a compelling argument when it comes to family

destination it boasts a meal deal with a drink for £6.95 for youngsters. Expect noodles, mini pho and skewers to choose from.

to meet your needs we take a look at venues for families, dates, dogs and budget dining in the run-up to Winter Lights dining, but this Mexican street-food inspired operation caters for more adventurous parents and their charges too. There’s welcome spice on a cold day for the adults and the kids menu boasts buildyour-own tacos and rainbow bowl options for less than £7. l Nando’s Cabot Place + Jubilee Place nandos.co.uk Familiarity is a potent recipe

for success and there’s a reason the concept of “a cheeky Nando’s” has entered everyday conversation. Its Nandino kids options offer scaled down versions of its most popular flavours. A solid performer on two sites. l Franco Manca Crossrail Place francomanca.co.uk Having been in the vanguard of the Neapolitan pizza revo-

lution alongside the likes of Pizza Pilgrims and Homeslice, Franco Manca has expanded massively and now goes out of its way to welcome younger diners. Kids get a pizza, drink and an ice cream for £7.75. l Pho Jubilee Place phocafe.co.uk While this Vietnamese spot might not spring to mind immediately as a family

l Zizzi Attrium Kitchen, Cabot Place zizzi.co.uk The Italian chain’s bambini menu has plenty of pizza and pasta on offer with gelato, ice lollies and fresh strawberries to round things off. l Wagamama Jubilee Place wagamama.com There are plenty of mini ramen and yaki soba noodle dishes to choose from at this pan-Asian offering, tucked away above Seoul Bird in Jubilee Place. l Gallio Attrium Kitchen, Cabot Place gallio.uk This warm and welcoming environment has plenty of dishes on its menu that are ideal for sharing family-style including nutritionally balanced pizzas, small plates and pilaf bowls. Great for slightly older kids. continued on Page 23

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Canary Wharf - West India Quay

Venues to consider for a date when visiting Canary Wharf

we continue our selection of Canary Wharf dining ideas with some restaurants ideal for date night... from Page 14

inding a place to impress a partner, spouse or first date can be tricky. Fortunately Canary Wharf boasts a wide range of restaurants geared up for romance. Try these for a memorable evening. l Roka Park Pavilion rokarestaurant.com Arguably the best restaurant on the Wharf, this is a fantastic choice whether you’re looking to wow with sushi or indulge in some serious cooking from the venue’s robata grill. Expect slick, deft service and a fantastic deal for the weekend brunch, which is £51.50 per person with a £20 supplement for free-flowing wine throughout the meal. l The Ivy In The Park Canada Square ivycollection.com This one is all about the decor. Think rich verdant plants, opulent golds and greens and a warm welcome from staff. An ideal venue for a simple drink at the bar or stay and dine in the plush surroundings.

l Blacklock Frobisher Passage theblacklock.com Tucked away beneath the faint rumbling of the DLR overhead, it’s possible to make believe you’ve run away to a New York speakeasy at this venue. Specialising in chops and unusual cuts, this is one for the carnivores. If you’re feeling brave or, perhaps, a little foolish, opt for the All-In, a potent portion of beef, pork and lamb skinny chops piled high on charcoal-grilled flatbreads plus a completely unnecessary side dish each. At £26 per person, there’s little doubt those on a first date will know each other much better after conquering such a meaty mountain. l Six By Nico Chancellor Passage sixbynico.co.uk While this restaurant normally offers six-course tasting menus (hence the name), from Jan 15-Feb 25, it’s offering a 10-course extravaganza exclusively on Mondays and Sundays. The Trust Experience has no menu, just a requirement that diners put their faith in the staff. What an adventure for a date. The cost is £55 per person, £35 for matching wine. Extras apply.

l Fish Game Water Street, Wood Wharf fishgamerestaurant.co.uk Under the expert hand of Matt Colk, this seasonal British restaurant cooks UK produce with an Italian twist, producing some of the most original flavours and plates to be found on the estate. Offering excellent value lunch and dinner set menus (£16 and £26, respectively), diners can expect a varied and bold range of seafood and game dishes. What better talking point on a date than a fried pizza with pheasant from a Windsor park? Perhaps a juicy platter of Cornish monkfish or a sea bream coated in olive oil, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts and fresh basil for two to share. It’s the kind of place that quickly becomes a fave. l Hawksmoor Water Street, Wood Wharf thehawksmoor.com Most are well aware that the quality Hawksmoor and its excellent bar, The Lowback, provide is bomb-proof for occasion dining. Go for the steak, but stay for the exquisite cocktails, attentive but relaxed service and the atmosphere of a place that always feels a bit special. continued on Pages 24-25

The All In at Blacklock

A dish at Six By Nico

Hawksmoor

The Ivy In The Park

Above, the sea bream at Fish Game Left, an aged tomahawk steak for two at Roka

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

Venues to consider for a date when visiting Canary Wharf

from Page 23

this is Snowdrop, official dog of Wharf Life’s selection of local restaurants, and she’s very excited to hear there are plenty of venues on the estate that welcome sensible canines, so long as their owners behave...

ogs are increasingly welcomed at venues across Canary Wharf – a change that’s been accelerated by the first canines moving into the residential properties on the estate. Here’s a few suggestions to lead you in the right direction and help you sniff out a suitable destination... l The Parlour Park Pavilion drakeandmorgan.co.uk Drake And Morgan, which owns The Parlour is quite clear on this point: “We love dogs – as long as they don’t make their way into the kitchen or behind the bar”. So there you have it. So long as you’re able to prevent your four-legged friend whipping up a quick omelette or pouring a hair of the dog (sorry), they’re welcome both indoors and out at this expansive venue at the heart of the Wharf. l Brewdog Churchill Place brewdog.com How could it not be? Brewdog isn’t just canine friendly, it offers Dog Pawties to celebrate your pooch’s birthday (or other significant occasion). For £6 per pup, you get pawty hats, a card, a special dog ice-cream sundae and a £1 donation to charity Street Paws. Three days’ notice is required. Humans are free to attend the event, but Brewdog does need to know numbers. Pre-orders should be made for all dogs attending too. l Feels Like June Water Street feelslikejune.com The restaurant of Tribe hotel is as dog friendly as it comes – there’s a terrace for those who prefer the open air and

canines are welcome indoors too. In fact, guests staying at the venue have lauded the service for four-legged guests, with doggie beds and bowls provided in rooms for travelling pooches. There isn’t a better venue for a whole litter reunion in Canary Wharf. l Pedler One Canada Square pedlercanarywharf.com While this restaurant is justly proud of its relationships with day boat fishermen, independent farmers and producers across Britain, one of the things it doesn’t shout about much is its welcoming attitude towards four-legged guests. Rest assured, however, the restaurant, which sprawls out into the lobby of One Canada Square is a safe space for pooches whether their owners are after a cocktail or a coffee. l Humble Grape Mackenzie Walk humblegrape.co.uk This restaurant, wine bar and shop extends a warm paw to those on four legs asking only that they behave appropriately to the same standard as human guests – no peeing on the floor, dancing on the tables or making anyone feel awkward. Dogs can expect a certain amount of pampering from staff, with snaps likely to be taken of them. Winemaraner’s (sorry) especially welcome... l Dishoom Terrace Water Street dishoom.com Even though dogs are not allowed inside the restaurant, Dishoom’s outdoor terrace does welcome pooches and their owners. Great news for those craving a bacon naan midway through a lengthy walk. It remains unclear exactly how much further you’ll need to take the dog to burn off the calories.

While sofas are comfy places to hang out, there are other options

A Dog Pawty at Brewdog

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

Canary Wharf - West India Quay

Chicken katsu curry with noodles at Marugame Udon

everyone likes a bargain – especially in January – and eating on the estate can easily be done on a budget

here are some truly superb budget foodie options available in Canary Wharf, from sit-down meals to grab-and-go snacks that are ideal for consuming in the estate’s parks and open spaces. Here are a few to try that won’t break the bank... l Wharf Kitchen Jubilee Place canarywharf.com Grab some serious bites from any one (or more) of the six street food traders operating in this market hall-style venue. Whether it’s South American beef from Argentinian Grill, hand-stretched noodles from Biang, fried chicken from Thunderbird, fresh fish from Poke Bowl, Greek delights from Smashing Plates or Indian spice from Indi-Go, there’s plenty of choice. Expect plenty of dishes for less than £10. l Marks And Spencer Jubilee Place + Crossrail Place marksandspencer.com The Wharf’s two branches are great places to pick up snacks and provisions when visiting the estate. Whether it’s sandwiches and canned drinks or more substantial salads, there

are plenty of options. The stores are also excellent places to visit around 6pm when perishable goods are often radically reduced in price with serious value to be found in the meal deal sections. l Subway Crossrail Place subway.com Recently opened on the lower level of Crossrail Place, the gargantuan sandwich chain offers pretty decent value at any hour of the day. Go after 4pm on any day of the week, however, and the business is offering two-for-one on all six-inch and foot-long subs. Ideal if you’re visiting with a friend and both need filling up rapidly. l Marugame Udon Attrium Kitchen, Cabot Place marugame.co.uk The absolute star of the budget dine-in scene on the Wharf. With chefs shouting “fresh udon” over the cookers, this Japanese chain offers a great blend of authentic Asian flavours, quality and value. With bowls of noodles available from £4.95, dressed in fish dashi sauce or soup, its warm, welcoming surroundings are the perfect place to grab a few moments with something hot

Clockwise from left, Marugame Udon, Thunderbird, M&S, Subway and Greggs

to take the chill off January. Even large bowls with curry and katsu mostly come in at less than £12. Our best buy is a Wharf favourite – chicken katsu udon at £10.45 for a regular size (also available at £8.45 for the small). A dependable destination on your travels. l Greggs Cabot Place greggs.co.uk There’s a consistent flow of Wharfers in and out of Greggs for a reason. The service is friendly, the range extensive and the food is exactly the kind of stuff you need to ward off the winter blues. Greggs has seen remarkable growth as a business in recent years and that’s in no small part down to its prices. Filled pastries are less than £3, vegan sausage rolls less than £2 and substantial sandwiches less than £5. It’s quick, efficient and somehow manages to retain a faint aura of naughtiness that lends every trip a little thrill. Maybe it’s something in the flaky puff pastry, or maybe that’s just the excitement of getting a good deal. Go to canarywharf.com for full venue listings on the estate or to download the Canary Wharf App

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

The voyage home

how the SS Robin has come back to within 150m of the place she was built to begin a new life on the river

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? The Space Isle Of Dogs

by Jon Massey

Image by Simon Richards

STAGE| Project Platform Mini Festival This tale of love across the divide conjures a future where natural disasters have destroyed much of the planet and people live as gods or rats. Feb 6-10, 7.30pm, £15, space.org.uk Where? Poplar Union Poplar

Image by Simon Richards

ART | Lino Printing Revamp your wardrobe under the guidance of textiles artist, Jasmine Karis, through the medium of carving and printing designs onto existing garments. Jan 27, 1pm-3.30pm, from £3, poplarunion.com Where? The Space Isle Of Dogs

LEARN | Movement Direction Join movement director Christina Fulcher for this two hour workshop designed to help performers and theatre-makers explore physical expression. Jan 30, 7pm, £25, space.org.uk

Image by Fotis Begklis

flash back

Image by Harry Dwyer

This is Professor Ian Luke, provost of the Elizabeth School Of London, which recently opened a new campus at Harbour Exchange on the Isle Of Dogs offering a range of courses accredited by multiple institutions elizabethschool.com Scan this code to read our interview with Ian or to find out more about what the school offers want more? @wharfwhispers

Image by Simon Richards

o there she sits, resplendent in her red and black livery, atop a specially constructed pontoon and ready for the next chapter of her life. The SS Robin has, after some 133 years, returned to within 150m of the shipyard where the iron plates of her hull were first riveted together. She might be smaller in size than the Cutty Sark and HMS Belfast – but make no mistake – as historic ships in London go, she’s deserving of attention. And following her most recent relocation from Royal Victoria Dock to Trinity Buoy Wharf, the story of the only surviving Victorian steam ship in existence is a big step closer to getting appropriate prominence. It’s a move that’s been a long time coming. Having spent a chunk of her retirement (19912008) at West India Quay opposite Canary Wharf, the Crossrail project saw her moved to Suffolk, with funding secured for restoration. That saw her lifted from the water and mounted on a pontoon in 2010, with the intention of returning her to Docklands for public exhibition. But plans to open her as a museum ship in Royal Victoria Dock faltered so, while she has been moored near Millennium Mills since 2011, she’s remained mostly closed to the public and inaccessible. Schemes were mooted, plans made and locations suggested, but in more than a decade, Robin failed to find a permanent home. A site was not forthcoming in either the Royals or West India Docks, amid the ironically choppy administrative waters of the bodies managing these vast human-made lakes.

ric Reynolds is founding director of Urban Space Management, which runs Trinity Buoy Wharf. He is a man who makes things happen. London is strewn with projects he’s had a hand in – Camden Lock Market, Gabriel’s Wharf on the South Bank, Greenwich Market and Merton Abbey Mills, to name a few. After becoming involved with the SS Robin and growing frustration at the failure to open her to the public as promised,

The whole point about this ship is she looks and feels like one that would carry coals from Newcastle and salted herring from Aberdeen Eric Reynolds, Urban Space Management

he’s now overseen the relocation of the vessel to the mouth of the River Lea, where she will have a permanent home among the growing historic fleet at Trinity Buoy Wharf. “The original intention was to keep going with the project and leave Robin where she was in Royal Docks,” said Eric. “But eventually I gave up – I just couldn’t get any of the organisations to get off the fence. “So instead we turned to the Port Of London Authority to get a licence to drive two piles into the riverbed at Trinity Buoy Wharf. The ship and her pontoon probably have a combined weight of about 600tonnes, which is not something I’d want to moor directly against the listed river wall as it would pose some risk. “So, instead, it’s held between two giant ‘knitting needles’, which weigh 17 tonnes each. There’s a seven-metre rise and fall of the tide, so Robin will demonstrate that every day.” That change in level also presents the last significant stumbling block to opening the vessel to the public. A 40m gangway is set to be installed over the next couple of months that will go up and down with the level of the water, providing access at a suitable gradient. Then, members of the public will be able to tour the vessel and view a wealth of information about her past and why she’s been preserved in this way. “The driving idea is to make that information and Robin herself available to people who live here and know the area, as well as newcomers to it,” said Eric. “There’s a population the size of Swindon scheduled to move in – a whole new town is being created. “Shipping is still the major way by which the world trades with itself and London is here because it was driven by this tidal river and the trade that took place on it.

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

Isle Of Dogs - Poplar - Blackwall

SS Robin sits on her pontoon at Trinity Buoy Wharf. A door has been cut into her cargo hold to ease access onto her lower decks

returning

to its

Image by Harry Dwyer

Tugs guide the SS Robin down the Thames to her new home

Scan this code to find out more about SS Robin

Image by Harry Dwyer

Eric Reynolds

Image by Jon Massey

“Robin is the very last complete trading vessel of the period in the world with its original method of propulsion still in place. She was sold reasonably early in her life to the Spanish who operated her on a bit of a shoestring, so they didn’t do what nearly everyone else did, which was to take out the steam engine and put in an easily operated diesel. “When you look at the ship and see the small size of the rudder and the huge propeller, you realise she’s relying on torque rather than revs. really take my hat off to her crew – operating her in a crowded dock. With modern vessels you have bow thrusters and they can turn on a sixpence whatever the weather. “With Robin you’d have had to spend 12 hours just getting steam up – their lives were so hard. We have a lot of material about her working life so we’ll be able to tell people all about it – the crew on her maiden voyage, for example. “What we won’t do is commercialise her in any way – the whole point about this ship is she looks and feels like one that would carry coals from Newcastle and salted herring from Aberdeen. “That should be respected and the entire idea is to create a free access open museum, along the lines of Blists Hill in Shropshire, where people can come to learn.” Trinity Buoy Wharf plans to work with a cross section of organisations including schools, artists and musicians to explore and illuminate the vessel’s heritage as a jumping off point for study, not least in the fields of science and technology. It also intends to tell the story of the ship’s construction at the yard of Mackenzie, MacAlpine And Company in Blackwall. “That’s really quite amazing,” said Eric. “With health and safety now, we could never imagine a 14-year-old boy throwing lumps of red hot metal up for someone else to catch in a shovel. The majority of the ship is original, and when we cut some of the metal and sent it away, the people said that you couldn’t get iron like this any more. It was probably made by some process that you wouldn’t be allowed to do now. “For young people it’s a window into a lost world – an educational asset rather than a tourist attraction.” In time, Trinity Buoy Wharf plans to bring all the historic vessels in its collection together with row barge Diana and the tugs Knocker White and Suncrest connected to the SS Robin, so visitors can tour all of them. Watch this space for an opening date for the historic vessel. For more information go to trinitybuoywharf.com

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

Wapping - Limehouse - Shadwell - Tower Hill

£7

Cost of tickets to Make Some Noise on January 27 at Half Moon Dommy B is set to perform two shows

what’s on

at Half Moon Theatre

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Wilton’s Music Hall Wapping

FILM | Metropolis Watch Fritz Lang’s dystopian sci-fi classic with live piano accompiniament from composer and pianist Dmytro Morykit on two dates next month. Feb 6-7, 7.30pm, from £10, wiltons.org.uk Where? Troxy Limehouse

GIG | WhoMadeWho Following sold out shows at Here and Koko, the Danish trio return to east London for the UK debut of their new live show. Support from Shubostar. Feb 3, 8.30pm, from £50.10, troxy.co.uk Where? Half Moon Theatre Wapping

come, feel the

KIDS | Boxed In This show promises to present a heartfelt story of being made to feel naughty just because the rules don’t make sense. Suitable for ages 3-6 Feb 1-6, times vary, £7, halfmoon.org.uk

flash back

how poet and performer Dommy B promises kids plenty of opportunity to Make Some Noise at Half Moon Theatre by Jon Massey

This is The Nest co-working space, part of recently rebranded Tower Bridge Studios in Wapping, where people can grab a desk for the day or take regular space. It’s also open for takeaway coffee to all-comers nestcoworking.co.uk Scan this code to read more about The Nest and find out all about studio company Cherryduck’s rebrand want more? @wharfwhispers

udiences aged ﬁve and over and their associated adults are invited to join poet, performer and storyteller ommy oon Theatre for Make

at alf Some Noise. n anuary , he s set to tell a tale of discovery how he found a rilliant, ut wayward imaginary pal, turned into unk The unk and joined a school and called hi kid nd The eggie urgers.

romising rhymes, jokes and plenty of opportunity to make some noise, it s an hour of sonic mayhem, merriment and feelings. love performing kid s shows ecause children make the est audiences. said ommy. s well as loads of fun, m hoping to oﬀer my audiences a really good e perience of poetry, so that they ll see that it s not oring, or something that you ve got to e a grown up to understand and enjoy. t s something everyone can join in with, and most importantly have a great time listening to. ommy, who has appeared at

laston ury and on ee ies Rhyme Rocket, is set to perform two shows on the day one at am and the other at pm. Tickets for each performance cost per person and all seating at the imehouse venue is unreserved. Go to halfmoon.org.uk for more information or to book tickets for the shows

Scan this code to find out more about Make Some Noise

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

Rotherhithe - Deptford - Bermondsey

Comedians on the bill for an evening of comedy in Bermondsey

Katie Norris is set to perform Farm Fatale at The Pen Theatre

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Deptford Lounge Deptford

CONCERT | Wonderland Three classical musicians and a South Asian percussionist use live and improvised music to help toddlers aged 18-36 months explore sound. Jan 12, 1.30pm, free, thealbany.org.uk Where? The Pen Theatre Bermondsey

presenting the

COMEDY | Jacob Hatton The south London stand-up comedian and writer presents another work-in-progress show as he tries out and develops new material. Feb 1, 7.30pm, £11.55, thepentheatre.com Where? Deptford Lounge Deptford

how comedians Katie Norris and Jay Bennett are set to showcase material at The Pen Theatre by Jon Massey

ermondsey venue The Pen Theatre is set to host a pair of comedians as they present work-in-progress performances this month. Katie Norris and Jay Bennett are set to perform sets on its stage on January 24. The former, known as one half of critically acclaimed double act Norris And Parker, will present Farm Fatale. Having initially made waves at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2016 with See You At The Gallows, Katie and her comedy partner’s second show Burn The Witch was a sell-out in 2018 with their most recent production, Sirens, transferring to The Soho Theatre from the 2022 festival. A regular performer on Radio 4 on The Now Show and Newsjack, she also hosts podcast Sketch Therapy with Sinead Parker featuring skits,

characters, songs and special guests. Audiences can expect similar silliness from her solo work. Also appearing on the 24th will be Jay Bennett’s character The Gorgeous Diva – known for her uncharted pop hit Love Hurts When Eagles Fly and her one-woman Bananarama tribute act Banana. Most recently, she’s attempted to manifest a

seasonal No. 1 by releasing The True Meaning Of Christmas, a ditty that attempts to distil and concentrate what the festive period is really all about with the subtlety and intelligence of a 1980s pop star. While the Diva’s offerings might not be classic Stock, Aiken and Waterman fodder, there’s little doubt she has suitable hair and a director comfortable with shonky camera angles. Audiences at The Pen can expect a similarly colourful set with plenty of vibrant daftness and spurious nonsense. The double bill starts at 7.30pm, with tickets costing £11.55. Go to thepentheatre.com for more information or to make a booking Scan this code to find out more about the show

WRITE | Develop Your Inner Mythic Bear Albany associate artist Angela Clerkin is set to lead four “lively, joyful, bear-tastic” creative writing workshops inspired by all things ursine. Jan 16-Feb 6, Tuesdays 6pm, donations, thealbany.org.uk

be quick

There’s still time to catch Wintermas at the excellent Phantom Peak as it rounds off its festive season on January 14. Move swiftly though as tickets for the final shows are selling fast. Got 20% off with code WHARF20 phantompeak.com Scan this code to find out more information about Phantom Peak or to book for January 12-14 want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

Flexible spaces that Woolwich Works offers to events organisers and producers in south-east London

why the fun of Woolwich Works’ future will be in finding out exactly what it hosts in its seven spaces by Jon Massey

really want us to do a dog show – the Royal Arsenal is a very dog-friendly place and we are as a venue – my own dog comes in regularly and she has very strong views on these things,” said Nick Williams, director at Woolwich Works. It’s a new year and, having taken the helm at the venue only four months ago, there’s a sense of anticipation and possibility from the man at the top. t would e so easy to reel off lots of things I want to do, but actually part of the fun of this is finding out, he said. m uite keen for us not to be just another arts centre. For one thing, we’re too big for that – our main space is , s m and it can take , people. It’s enormous and that’s only one of seven spaces. “That’s why I’m talking about Woolwich Works as an events space. If you take the word ‘arts’ out of it, the door is open to all sorts of things. There’s been an array of different sorts of stuff in its short life so far and I’m pushing us to experiment with more of that.” He’s serious about the dog show, of course, with an ambition to build on last summer’s Woolwich Woofs event – but to do it at scale with exhibitors, stalls, events and categories that go far beyond the narrow pedigree world of The Kennel Club. He says he wants it to be the antidote to Cruft’s, with space to celebrate waggy tails and grey muzzles. But that’s very much the wet nose of the Great Dane, with plenty of plans and opportunity coming over the next 12 months. “This year, I would like to be hosting profile events, where people will say the venue looks really great and that they’re going to come to us,” said Nick, whose career has taken in roles at Arts Council England as well as running venues in Notting Hill and Perth. “It’s really easy to get to Woolwich on the Elizabeth Line – we’re six minutes from Canary Wharf, 15 minutes from Tottenham Court Road and an hour from Reading. really want us to host stuff that couldn’t happen anywhere

else because we have so much space and so much fle i ility within it. e don t have a single fi ed seat anywhere – everything can all come out be moved around and put ack in a different configuration. “We started to experiment with a bit of that in the autumn and there’s a lot more of that to come in , in various different guises. We have a fabulous courtyard at the centre of the venue and it’s our most underused space, even though it’s enormous. “Last summer, we put a beach bar out there, which was nice, although the weather wasn’t that great and we’ve had a bandstand this Christmas with various different groups and performers, which has been great fun, and drew a lot of people with a bar and some mulled wine. “This coming summer, we’re going to put something out there with a bit of shade – a bit more of a garden feel. We’ll have a stage for those months so we can programme a range of performances. “People will just be able to drop in – it might be a DJ night or a community group. We’ll mix and match to connect with lots of different types of audiences. The idea is that people will just come by and hang out. “Hopefully there’ll be lovely weather and we’ll have a wonderful time.” While there are some big dates on the calendar but currently under wraps, Nick was keen to stress that staff at the venue were very much open to ideas – especially Woolwich Works creative ones. director Nick Williams “There’s so much I can’t actually tell you at the moment,” he said. “We have a very big wellness and fitness event coming up in early spring. “We’re also going to have an all-day Eurovision festival at the beginning of May, before the main event, and that will be great fun, with some big-name performers. “The beauty of this

plans making the

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

Greenwich - Peninsula - Woolwich

place is that we can do what we like with it. “I had a festival director come down who really wanted to do a show with us because it suited the vibe to put in the round. “He wanted it for about 450, but here he found he could get 650, which was brilliant. It’s that versatility that’s fantastic. One of my key aims is getting as many people as possible in to see what we can do here. “My attitude is that, if you’ve got a project that might be worth doing with us, then approach us – we’ll have a wander round, a coﬀee and a chat and see where it leads. “I’m really keen on exploring crossover events which mix food, performance, creativity and wellness. We can do that here – it doesn’t have to be one thing or another. “But you can’t run a place like this in isolation – you have to be open, interested in other people’s ideas. “We’ve got too much space to ﬁll just to rely on our own thoughts. We need people to come forward with their ideas. “Word is getting out and that is entirely what we’re after. More and more people are coming forward with all sorts of things, and it’s all really exciting. “In many ways we’re still a startup – still evolving and working out what works at Woolwich Works.” Visitors and local residents can expect this spirit of openness to continue in 2024 – Nick’s overriding message being one of welcome. He said: “I think we want people to realise there’s something for everyone here, and it really is for them. We encourage people to wander into the building and say: ‘Hi’. One of the

My attitude is that, if you’ve got a project that might be worth doing with us, then approach us – we’ll see where it leads Nick Williams, Woolwich Works

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Cutty Sark Greenwich

The Fireworks Factory venue at Woolwich Works

diary dates

at Woolwich Works

Family Folk Show Jan 28, 11am, £12.10 Folk duo Megson present a concert of ditties for those aged 0-8. Ruby Rushton Feb 9, 6.30pm, £15.50 The jazz quartet offer an anniversary performance of their album Two For Joy. Rotations Mar 7, 7.30pm, £13 An evening of classical accordion music and dance plus a Q+A. ﬁrst things did when came was to change the cafe opening hours. “It used not to open on Mondays and Tuesdays, and it would open at lunchtime from Wednesday onwards. Every time I was in there in the morning, someone would try to get in – I thought there was clearly an untapped market here – so from October we started opening at 8am on Monday mornings. “We noticed quite a few people came and worked from the cafe, so we launched the Workers Club, and people take advantage of that because it’s a good deal.” For £6, people can work from the cafe from 8am-6pm on weekdays with unlimited tea, coﬀee or juice. Times vary at weekends There are also options to upgrade to lunch for £12 per day or to lunch and an after work drink for £15 per day. “There isn’t anywhere like it near here,” said Nick. “These are people often running

small independent businesses or sole traders who want to support us and we’re making it easy for them to do that. “We’re also very keen for our resident creative companies to perform here. “Chineke! and the National Youth Jazz Orchestra have both been in our Christmas programme and one of the things we’re talking about with all the organisations is how we can collaborate more effectively. “It’s a great conversation to have because everyone’s up for it. The Acosta Dance Foundation is a relatively recent arrival and Carlos is full of ideas. “He really loves the main space and wants to do stuff in it, which is an exciting prospect. Having a global superstar say that they want to do something in our space is thrilling, so we hope that will come this year. “I’d like people to think Woolwich Works is a place where really great things happen – somewhere they have a great time when they come and that always has something interesting happening. “I have a sort of mantra – I want everyone coming away from an event to say that they had a really amazing time here, that they felt comfortable in the venue, that they were really welcome and that it was an easy, fun experience for them. “I’d like people to think fondly of us, so that they want to see what’s on next time.” oolwich orks offers a regular newsletter with full details of forthcoming shows and ways to help support the venue. Go to woolwich.works for more information

Scan this code to find out more about Woolwich Works

Image by Jon Massey

GIG | The Salts Celebrate Burns Night on board the iconic tea clipper with traditional and original tunes from this potent folk band, currently making waves. Jan 25, 7pm, £18, rmg.co.uk Where? The O2 Arena Peninsula

GIG | D-Block Europe Lewisham’s own Young Adz and Dirtbike LB bring their British brand of hip hop to the tent for four nights (one added due to popular demand). Feb 4-7, 6.30pm, from £52, theo2.co.uk Where? Blackheath Halls Blackheath

COMEDY | Mark Watson The gently spoken comedian tackles his 12-year-old son’s phone and a terrifying experience for his 70-year-old dad in typical absurdist manner. Jan 27, 8pm, £20, blackheathhalls.com

event spot

Head to Indigo At The O2 to catch modern blues guitarist, songwriter and singer Joanne Shaw Taylor as she and her band play songs from her studio album Nobody’s Fool. Feb 22, 7.30pm, tickets from £45 theo2.co.uk Scan this code to find out more about the gig or to purchase tickets for the event want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

how the Met will take on NASSA as Carry A Basketball Not A Blade marks 15 years of activity by Jon Massey

t 5.30pm a game of basketball will begin at UEL Sports Dock on January 25. But the players will be doing more than making passes, shooting hoops and competing. It’s not the ﬁrst time that a team from ewham ll Start Sports cademy SS has taken on a squad of serving Met Police o cers. But this year is the latest in a series of events marking the 15 years of partnership between the two organisations. Son of SS founder atasha art – Anthony Okereafor – founded Carry A Basketball Not A Blade in following the fatal stabbing of two of his friends within weeks of each other. Its programme reaches thousands of young people each year, alerting them to the dangers of knife crime and carrying knives through basketball coaching and question and answer sessions. The annual game is held to show the strength of organisations working together in the community, but also to remember those who have died as a result of knife crime locally during the year - with a hoop shot for every life lost. “We come together to play a game of basketball, but the most important part of it is remembering those lives,” said Anthony. “The event allows people in the community to see et o cers as human beings. It helps to break down the barriers for young people – to show them police o cers enjoy sport just as they do. “Trying to build a safer community isn t just a out removing the knives. t s about making sure the right relationships and structures are in place to try to reduce the number of people who fall through the gaps. “The game is common ground, it changes the dynamic. One of the things SS and participants say is that when they meet o cers in these settings they talk and have conversations and that’s something to build on.” That’s also something the Met is looking forward to with Chief Superintendent, Simon Crick, set to take part in his ﬁrst game against SS since taking over as borough commander for ewham and altham orest. “It’s the engagement with young people and the diversion away from anti-social behaviour that’s so important,” said Simon, who began his career as a police consta le in ewham. “This part of London has seen more than its fair share of homicides and violent incidents over recent years and m really supportive of what SS and are trying to do. aving een down to Sports ock and seen all of the things the charity has achieved, it’s really good for us to be a part of it and to try and do something positive with young people. It’s really empowering. “As for the game itself, we’ll get

annihilated, without a doubt – I’m sure. I’m really looking forward to the game – anything that we can do to show a willingness to engage with young people, work with them and have a bit of fun, is really positive. Building relationships is what it’s all about – there’s too much animosity, so we need to do more of that. “Alongside me, some of my senior leadership team will be playing and they understand the need to engage with young people. There will also be some neigh ourhood o cers in there, whose purpose and role in life is to do that – to support young people and divert them away from crime and anti-social behaviour. “I think it will be really empowering for our o cers it always helps uild that trust, whenever something is fun for those taking part, and it will help make their jo s easier. The uniform can e seen as a barrier sometimes and, if people can see you’re human through playing sport, that’s really important.” or SS and the young people that participate in its programmes, the game is a chance to explore those relationships and ﬁnd some parallels. Anthony said: “When people put on a uniform, there’s a certain reputation they have to uphold. When we play basketball, we put on a uniform and we preach that to our young people – it’s the same with school uniforms. When wearing them, you have to represent certain things, to look at the bigger picture of what that means, how you carry yourself and the importance of that. “There is a natural tension with the et, ut police o cers are also the ﬁrst responders – they are the people you call when you’re in trouble and they also go through traumas related to the work they do. hen the o cers are playing, you don’t see that tension with the young people and that’s a seed that can be planted to grow into something better. “Who knows, one of our young people might end up saying they want to join the police themselves. “I’ve never worked for the police, but can imagine o cers are always on high

The event allows people in the community to see Met officers as human beings. It helps break down the barriers for young people Anthony Okereafor, NASSA

alert for themselves and those around them as they work to keep people safe. This game is an opportunity for them to let their hair down – a bit of a break in a safe place and a chance to communicate with young people.” With a reduction in youth services locally, that’s a welcome prospect for Simon and his colleagues. e said There s a lack of youth engagement opportunities following austerity – we saw huge cuts to many of those services locally and what SS does is phenomenal – bringing young people together locally. It gives them the a ility to work as a team, to enjoy themselves, to get ﬁt and have fun. “It gives them somewhere to go and a sense of purpose. aving young kids myself, I know how important sport can be when they’re growing and everything is changing in their lives. That continuous focus around sport can be crucial. SS also provides a sense of family speaking to atasha, you really understand it’s a close knit organisation and people coming into it will really feel that. That’s important because I think lots of young people feel very alienated in the modern world. hat SS does is very powerful. “Knife crime is an issue that goes far beyond the police. We deal with situations where people are on the street carrying knives or when they’ve been the victim of a homicide or serious assault. “There are things we do – very well planned and coordinated partnership

more than a

activities to try and reduce offending. But tackling this issue starts a lot earlier than that. It often begins in the home with good parenting and at school with education. “There are so many factors that play into it. Where we’ve seen success across the country and across the world, has been when a public health approach is taken. That’s where numerous partners including charities, police forces and other organisations, come together to look at all the different factors that feed into knife crime, such as deprivation “This game is a good example of how we’re trying to reach out and encourage young people to be part of that. “We’re a long way from solving the problem, but we’ve recognised as a service that only a partnership approach will address it. “If you speak to young people and ask them why they carry knives, a lot of them would say they are for self defence or to make sure that they are safe. “If I had a magic wand it would be used to make people not feel unsafe or at risk so they wouldn’t feel the need to carry a knife. That s the ultimate aim it s di cult to achieve that because of all the factors that affect it. or a young person to say they need to carry a knife to feel safe speaks volumes and that’s that we need to address first. l While the game on January 25 is not open to the general public, organisations or individuals who would like to support SS can get in touch with the charity and may be able to attend. Support from usinesses, either financial or through volunteering is welcomed so SS and can continue their vital work. Go to nassasports.org.uk or email info@nassasports.org.uk for more information

Scan this code to find out more about the work of NASSA and CABNAB in Newham

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Royal Docks - Canning Town

Image by Jon Massey

Years since CABNAB started running sessions which reach thousands of young people in Newham annually

Anthony Okereafor founded Carry A Basketball Not A Blade in response to the deaths of two of his friends from stabbings He says the game against the Met this month is an opportunity to break down barriers to help fight knife crime in east London

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Art In The Docks Royal Albert Wharf

TRY | Introduction To Drawing And Painting Suitable for beginners or those looking to reignite their passion for art, artist John Lord will guide attendees looking to let their imaginations run wild. Jan 25, 7pm-9pm, free, artinthedocks.com Where? Excel Royal Victoria Dock

EVENT | The Festival Of Genomics And Biodata This event brings the worldwide community of scientists together with the aim of spreading ideas and sharing knowledge. Free for 90% of attendees. Jan 24-25, 8am, registration, excel.london Where? RA Fold Canning Town

CLUB | Semantica Records Fold returns with a new set of label collaborations, starting with the Spanish industrial and techno stalwart. Expect Alba Heidari ad Svreca on the bill. Feb 3, 10pm-6am, from £16.75, ra.co

flash back

The University Of East London has unveiled the Royal Docks Centre For Sustainability, a hub for green and innovative activities aimed at tackling the climate crisis and driving an agenda that’s good for the planet uel.ac.uk Scan this code to read Wharf Life’s coverage of the opening and to find out more about the initiative

Images by Ilyas Ayub – find more of

NASSA offers young people a place to play sport as a positive force in their lives his work at ilyasayub.com

want more? @wharfwhispers

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Stratford - Bow - Hackney Wick

Burns Night celebrations at Barge East with set menus and entertainment from £55 per person

The menus include a dram of whisky so revellers can toast the haggis

what’s on

things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Theatre Royal Stratford East Stratford

CONCERT | Chineke! String Quartet Hear musicians from the celebrated orchestra tackle pieces for quartet including works by Mendelssohn and Haydn plus Brian Nabors and William Grant Still. Jan 26, 7.30pm, from £10, stratfordeast.com Where? Stratford Picturehouse Stratford

FILM | Pet Shop Boys: Dreamworld Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe have been captured in Copenhagen for this 14-camera concert film featuring hits such as It’s A Sin and West End Girls. Jan 31, 7pm, £17.50, picturehouses.com

serving

Where? The Yard Hackney Wick

tradition and tatties how Barge East is celebrating the works and spirit of Rabbie Burns with three nights of music and food by Jon Massey

ith many indulging in Dry January, there’s a case to be made that special exception should be given to Burns Night. First held by the poet’s friends in 1801 on the fifth anniversary of his death, the tradition has spread far and wide, much to the joy of whisky and haggis producers. This year Hackney Wick floating restaurant, Barge East, is offering revellers a trio of dates including January 25 (Robert Burns’

official birthday) to mark the occasion. Promising evenings of live music, convivial dining and, of course, poetry, they include a set menu with a dram of whisky. The events will take place within the cosy confines of a 120-year-old Dutch barge moored just off Bassett Lane on River Lee Navigation. Two set menus will be on offer – one meat, one veggie – both boasting a dram of Copper Box Glasgow Blend whisky. Flavours featured include Scottish langoustine, braised mutton, neep-a-leekie soup and Cranachan ice cream.

Both, naturally, also have a meat or plant-based haggis course served with bashed neeps and tatties, all rounded off with a deep fried Mars Bar or a Tipsy Laird. Barge East’s Burns Night celebrations will take place on January 24, 25 and 26 and cost £55pp on the Wednesday and £59pp on the Thursday and Friday. Go to bargeeast.com for more information Scan this code for more about the events

CLUB | Murder On Zidane’s Floor - Hot As Hail Run by female and non-binary footballers, this party promises pop bangers and camp classics to keep soccer queens of every denomination piping hot. Jan 27, 10pm, £14, theyardtheatre.co.uk

giza reminder

Fancy exploring an ancient monument without having to leave east London? Virtual reality experience Horizon Of Khufu at Westfield Stratford City is currently booking into January. Tickets cost £45 horizonkheops.com Scan this code for more information about the experience or to book tickets for the Great Pyramid want more? @wharfwhispers

Wharf Life Jan 10-24, 2024 wharf-life.com

Crossword - Sudoku

Sudoku

Take a break from that phone How to play To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers one to nine such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. More to play You can find more Sudoku puzzles and a wide selection of other brainteasers available to download for free at puzzles.ca last issue’s solution Dec 13-Jan 10

Notes

crossword beating the

Cryptic

Down

These commercialise insects (11) 9. Adjust this imaginary line to make the number up (7) 10. Musical group has none to speak of (5) 11. The seas relax, sort of (5) 12. Tomatoes make a pass at a sauce (7) 13, 18. Roman conclusion to tricky plot? (4,2,7) 18. See 13 across. 15. Canine at the summit lords it (3,3) 20. Clerical dress repeated? (5) 22. Mixed thoughts whispered at the stage’s edge (5) 23. No men are these (7) 24. Naive shopkeeper? (11)

Across

1. Lie (4,7) 9. Of sight (7) 10. Farewell (5) 11. Absorb knowledge (5) 12. Superiority (7) 13. Largest time bell (3,3) . ﬀected person 18. Do 11 again! (7) 20. Elsewhere (5) 22. Narrates (5) 23. Oxford college (7) 24. Add a second signature (11)

You might be lost, thuggish lads (5) . eﬁned painter 4. Pub art is short and sharp, kind of 5. All sorts are benign (5) . This vessel could e a tad rank (7) 7. This French trickery is light tomorrow (11) 8. Tight stares can be the most direct (11) 14. Lacking atomic clarity, we think (7) . This play can e seen to be hell too (7) 17. Timing is everything for this sort of meeting 19. Give out the oﬀspring 21. A confused start to what is often non-stop (5)

Down

Set by Everden

2. Additional (5) 3. Permit (7) . ore greasy 5. Green-brown colour (5) . uilding 7. Work together (11) 8. Underwater vessel (11) 14. Italian astronomer (7) . rophecies . ake possi le 19. Deliberate incineration (5) 21. Cake decoration (5)

Across: 1 Flea-Markets; 9 Equator; 10 Nonet; 11 Eases; 12 Passata; 13, 18 Deus Ex Machina; 15 Top Dog; 20 Habit; 22 Ideas; 23 Islands; 24 Greengrocer. Down: 2 Louts; 3 Artiste; 4 Abrupt; 5 Kinds; 6 Tankard; 7 Legerdemain; 8 Straightest; 14 Unclear; 16 Othello; 17 Dating; 19 Issue; 21 Binge.

Cryptic Solution Across: 1 Tell Porkies; 9 Optical; 10 Adieu; 11 Learn; 12 Elitism; 13 Big Ben; 15 Poseur; 18 Relearn; 20 Alibi; 22 Tells; 23 Balliol; 24 Countersign. Down: 2 Extra; 3 Licence; 4 Oilier; 5 Khaki; 6 Edifice; 7 Collaborate; 8 Submersible; 14 Galileo; 16 Oracles; 17 Enable; 19 Arson; 21 Icing.

Notes

Quick

Quick Solution

Across

whether you’re cryptic sleuth or synonym solver in it for quick wins, this should satisfy

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