May 2017 issuu 118

Month: May 2017 Issue No: 118 Independent monthly community news and business directory for KT5 & KT6

Delivered free each month to homes in Berrylands, plus Surbiton or Tolworth

Inside this issue: • • • • • • •

Community Motors tells all about their student programme Berrylands Building Company explains about building an extension Surbiton Art Exhibition Ignition Dance Festival A use for your old shoes Recipes, Quizzes, and Editorials and more.......

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Hello Readers, I hope you all had a great Easter time.

Apparently, last month’s issue carried the wrong advert for Dream Doors. I am sorry for any problems, if you visited the showroom at Tolworth. As I work alone, the mistake was mine!! The correct advert, hopefully, should be in this edition.

As I write this piece, the weatherman on the TV, is saying that the weather is more like June than April. So I hope it continues into May at least!!

May is an odd month, don’t you think?

It starts with an early Bank Holiday and ends with one as well. Here’s to great Spring times for all!!

new advertiser on board. But by the same token, if you have found someone who has worked for you, but they are not in the magazine, try to encourage them to advertise, so others can use them!!

Please do let me know if you have had an excellent service from one of our advertisers. I’m sure other readers would like to know.

I hope that you enjoy the Bank Holidays, and that the weather is kind to us!!

Best wishes,

Karen

Are you looking for one trade or service in particular? Is it featured in the magazine?

If not, let me know and I will try to get a

Useful Numbers Kingston Council www.kingston.gov.uk Action Fraud (Trading Standards) Refuse Collection Electoral Registration Council Tax Citizens Advice Customs & Excise (VAT) Inland Revenue Helpline Environmental Agency Surbiton Library Kingston Police Non Emergency Police Emergency Services Non Emergency NHS Transport: National Rail Enquiries Public Transport Traveline Gatwick Airport Heathrow Airport

020 8547 5757 020 8547 4654 020 8547 5560 020 8547 4630 020 8547 5196 0870 126 4019 0845 010 9000 08459 000 444 0870 850 6506 020 8547 6444 020 8541 1212 101 999 111

Emergencies/Utilities: Gas Emergency Electricity Emergency Water Emergency BT Fault Line Virgin Media Crimestoppers Kingston Hospital Childline Samaritans Age Concern Kingston Relate www.relatekh.org Domestic Violence Helpline www.victimsupport.org.uk Surbiton Safer Neighbourhood Team based at YMCA

0800 111 999 0800 783 8866 0845 920 0800 0800 800 151 0845 142 0000 0800 555 111 020 8546 7711 0800 1111 0845 790 9090 0800 00 99 66 020 8549 3318 020 8547 3202 020 8721 2518

08457 484 950 0870 608 2608 0844 335 1802 0844 335 1801 A Berrylands Companion 18 Kingsdowne Road, Surbiton, KT6 6JZ 020 8274 0096 karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk www.berrylands-companion.co.uk Please mention A Berrylands Companion when responding to adverts

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Finance

By Ann Haldon

Should You Pay Off Debts With Your Pension?

The 2014 Budget introduced new regulations on how personal pensions can be accessed. These new pension freedoms mean that, if you have a money purchase or defined contribution pension, buying an annuity is no longer your only option at retirement.

Many people have since chosen to withdraw pension monies to invest in other financial products, and some have decided to pay off debts with the money. So is it a good idea to repay debt in this way, and what are the main aspects to consider?

Do you want to access your pension before you retire?

Some pension schemes allow you to access your pension at the age of 55. Doing so can significantly reduce the amount you have available in older age, however, unless you have other pensions or a large savings pot.

Tax issues you shouldn’t ignore You can withdraw a 25% tax-free lump sum from your pension, but taking any more than this percentage will increase your level of income for that tax year. This could mean that you enter a higher rate tax band, and subsequently lose much of the benefit of gaining access to this money.

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Will it affect your benefits entitlement?

If you claim meanstested benefits, withdrawing a lump sum from your pension could affect your entitlement. It might severely reduce the amounts you receive, or even mean that you can’t make a claim.

What are the costs of accessing your pension?

Many pension providers charge a fee for early access to a pension, and there is generally a charge each time you make a withdrawal. This could severely deplete your pension fund, making it expensive and unrealistic financially to repay debts in this way.

Final salary schemes If you have a final salary pension, you might be tempted to transfer your money into a personal pension scheme that gives you access to withdraw cash. This is likely to offer a poor reward in terms of conversion, however, and also may not provide you with sufficient income in retirement.

Be careful about Pension Recycling The government has introduced legislation to prevent ‘pension recycling’. This situation occurs when someone uses their pension to pay off debt before they retire, with the intention of replacing their pension money whilst still working.

Even if you do not deliberately set out to do this, by withdrawing your pension you could be inadvertently caught

out by the pension recycling regulations.

For example, if you: • Withdraw over £30,000 from your pension, and as a result: • Receive £7,500 or more taxfree, and then: • Increase your pension contributions by more than 30% The rules apply regardless of whether you pay off debt with the money, and can result in the anticipated ‘tax-free’ sums being taxed by up to 70% by the government. The reason why these rules have been introduced is to prevent people benefiting from taking more than one series of tax-free sums from their pensions, and as encouragement to save more for retirement.

With so many people now expected to live longer, it can be risky to use your pension to pay off debt. Personal circumstances will dictate whether it’s the right move for you, but it’s crucial that you obtain pension advice from an independent financial adviser before taking any action.

You’ll be able to find out the ‘bottom line’ figure once the tax, charges, loss of benefits and other potential deductions have been taken into account, and decide whether or not it’s truly worthwhile. https://debtcamel.co.uk/2015pension-changes-a-new-optionfor-paying-off-debts/ https://debtcamel.co.uk/debtspension-recycling-tax/

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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KAB Kingston upon Thames Association for the Blind Could you VOLUNTEER? Could you spare a couple of hours or so a week, to spend time with one of our visually impaired members? You could be their eyes either out shopping, going for a walk or in their home having a cup of tea and a chat. If you have a car and could take someone out this could also make a big difference.

We also need volunteers to help in our various clubs, including lawn bowls, which run just once or twice a month. We also need people who can help out occasionally.

If you are interested please contact us for more details on 020 8605 0060 or email kingstonassoc@btconnect.com

WE NEED YOU! www.kingstonassociationforblind.org Promoting the interests of people with sight loss in Kingston Charity registration number 249295 Funded by Greater London Fund for the Blind

Three Types Of Food That Are Poisonous To Your Dog If your dog has ever ingested a poisonous substance, you’ll know the sudden and devastating effect it can have on their health.

Unfortunately, three commonly used foods regularly cause serious issues for dogs, often requiring emergency treatment by a vet.

Chocolate Chocolate contains a poisonous substance called theobromine, which is derived from the cocoa plant. Amongst other symptoms it can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea, high temperature, irregular heart rhythm, and fitting.

Dark chocolate contains more theobromine than milk or white chocolate, and it is not unusual for a dog to need veterinary intervention even when a small amount has been consumed.

Onions, leeks, chives, garlic and shallots All members of the allium family, these foods can cause anaemia

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PETS

in dogs and are poisonous both in their raw and cooked form - even something as innocuous as onion gravy can cause a severe reaction in some dogs. They contain organosulphides which attack the red blood cells over a period of time. After a few days you might notice your dog has an upset stomach, is lethargic, sleepy, or breathing rapidly.

Grapes, raisins, currants and sultanas These can all be fatal to your dog, although the dried versions are believed to be more toxic.

Some dogs are able to eat these foods with no ill-effects, but others experience serious illness over a period of several days, with vomiting and diarrhoea, and in some cases kidney failure a few days after ingestion. https://www.pdsa.org.uk/taking-care-of-your-pet/ poisons-and-hazards http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media/605397/ poisons.pdf

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By Ann Haldon

As well as providing a wide range of pet sitting services (from doggy day crèche, rabbit and guinea-pig boarding, and home visits for cats), we have now teamed up with Lily’s Kitchen to distribute their award-winning brand of dog and cat food in the local area.

To take advantage of our great offers, simply download our app and click on ‘Lily’s Kitchen’ for the full range of pet food.

Our fantastic new reward programme means that, with every order you place, we will automatically send you a surprise gift for your fur baby! Every order, Every time, Simple!

We are also offering a 20% discount off the retail price on your order of any Lily's Kitchen product (Terms and conditions apply).

To enquire about any of our services give us a call on 02082417525.

Aspen Veterinary Surgery

HOME WANTED!

Your pet matters to us

COOKIE

“Hello, my name is Cookie and I am a friendly, 9 year old female, small all black cat (the white 'bib‘ you may see is just the flash!). Sadly I can no longer live with my owner so I am now in care looking for a permanent new home.

I love my chin and head being tickled and have an unusual meow; apparently I sound like a lamb!! I love company and with a little TLC I will make a wonderful companion for a family – but I would need to be the only pet. Why not come and visit me or phone to find out more details?”

If you feel you could give Cookie the loving home she so deserves please call SUE on 0208 390 3165 for further information.

Epsom Ewell & District Branch http://www.epsom.cats.org.uk

If you cannot adopt a cat but would still like to help us please go to https://www.justgiving.com/Epsom-CatsProtection

As we have around 7,000 cats and kittens in our care at any one time, we will find you the perfect feline friend. www.cats.org.uk Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

Join Aspen Pet Care Plan Save Money, Spread Costs, Pay Monthly, Open Mon-Fri: 8am-7.30pm Sat: 8.30-11am 24 hour Emergency Service

www.aspenvets.co.uk 351 Ewell Road, Tolworth, KT6 7BZ

020 8399 6437

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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When Those ‘Golden Years’ Are Tarnished

By Stress

by Kate McLelland The expression ‘golden years’ refers to that period in our lives in between retirement and agerelated physical decline: a time when we are supposed to enjoy the greatest quality of life.

There’s a general assumption that life is easier and sweeter for the older generation, and this has been supported by a survey carried out by the Office for National Statistics, in which 300,000 adults agreed that life satisfaction peaks between the ages of 65 and 79. However, while life is golden for some, others may find themselves facing unexpected responsibility and stress.

In these insecure economic times, many grown-up children are forced to return to the family home for economic reasons, often with the expectation that their aging parents will provide childcare. And it’s not just the younger generation who may need help. As people are living longer, it’s not uncommon to find individuals in their 60s and 70s supporting their elderly parents, sometimes with fulltime care.

While it’s natural to want to help, it’s unwise to ignore the fact that age is creeping up on us. Unfortunately, as we age we become more vulnerable to the effects of stress: a recent

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study by Harvard Medical School has reported that when we are stressed, the part of the brain that processes emotions such as fear and anger triggers the release of white blood cells.

These cells, used by the body to fight disease and injury, can cause inflammation that can eventually leads to angina, heart attacks and strokes if the stress is allowed to continue.

Other potentially harmful hormones, equally damaging in the long term, are also released during stressful episodes.

Signs of stress can include feeling overwhelmed, guilty, lonely or constantly anxious, as well as lacking interest in activities you have previously enjoyed. You may also feel constantly fatigued, or become easily irritated. Physical symptoms can include significant changes in weight, headaches and neck or lower back pain.

If family members are dependent upon you, you may not be able to change your situation, but following the steps below may help: • Ask for help from friends and family – don’t wait for it to be offered.

• Do your best to get enough sleep and exercise.

• Set realistic goals, by

breaking large tasks up into small ones.

• If you’re worried about your finances, ask family members to contribute, or check your eligibility to receive state benefits.

• If you are caring for someone who is ill or disabled, research what help is available on a local level.

• Keep in touch with friends and relatives.

• Use meditation or mindfulness exercises to aid relaxation.

If none of this helps, the next step should be to visit your doctor to explain how you feel.

Don’t be afraid to use all the medical and practical resources that are available to you.

Fortunately, even in these days of austerity and local service cuts, there are organisations you can turn to for help. Try Independent Age (www. independentage.org) or Age UK (www.ageuk.org.uk) to pick up some valuable information and advice.

Sharing your feelings and concerns with others is an important first step. Hopefully it won’t be long before you find the support you need, making your life less stressful and bringing you a little closer to those golden years you so richly deserve.

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The Life List Genteel Gangs

Gransters - child minding, fun loving, spinclassing dervishes. With added mints.

Junk Rockers - you prowl the car boot sale and no Toby jug or James Herriot bargain is safe from your all-seeing eye. Your motto is ‘hagglers not stragglers’.

Many of us, who grew up on the right side of the tracks, may feel we’ve missed out on heady living and have had to make do with vicarious thrills. Not so much On the Waterfront as on the seafront with a good book. Luckily, senior subcultures are all the rage now.

Aga Louts and Rayburners - kitchen living on the edge, where you dry your clothes and cook a hot pot at the same time. Sure to cause the occasional stir.

Dude Boys - you may have thinning hair and a bit of a paunch, but you can still wear (elasticated) denim jeans when you drive your

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

sports car. You’re always in top gear.

Old Romantics - you favour black & white films, style over fashion, and in-depth conversations over Snapchat. You don’t need a watch because you are timeless.

Sheddy Boys - the man cave is your domain, which you share with the lawnmower, a windup radio and your collection of hoes. The allotment is your stamping ground, mainly to compact the soil.

Tantastics - you’ve been to the South of France and you want to let the world know it. (Or you’ve actually been to an out-of-town tanning salon and you just want the world to believe it.)

By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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I

Community Motors – Good for your car, Good for the community

t’s hard to believe that Community Motors in Tolworth has only been open for two years. Any internet or social media search brings up many outstanding comments and five-star ratings, for this exciting new enterprise, and hundreds of customers every year keep the clean and tidy workshop very busy. Offering MOTs, servicing, tyres, exhausts, air conditioning service, mechanical repairs and electronic diagnostics to the public, keeps their experienced and enthusiastic technicians (Keaton, Matt, Mark and Rob) on their toes all day long.

Nonetheless, Garage Manager Mark and Conor, their apprentice Service Advisor, will always have time for a chat and to offer you advice and refreshment in reception.

But underneath all this customer-facing activity, it’s the other side of Community Motors which shows what they are really all about. Kevin Martin runs the training side of this Community Interest Company, where young and disadvantaged people

using state of the art tools and machinery, and with the technicians always on hand to offer help, advice and share their years of experience. Some will go on to further study and careers in the motor industry, others will just have learnt how to maintain their own car when they get one, but all of them have had

an opportunity to work practically and gain real-life working skills.

Kevin says: “We’re all about providing quality – to our trainees and to our customers. If we can demonstrate the right way to do things now, we can set these young people on the right path for the future.” It was this focus on quality that helped Community Motors win last

year’s Kingston ‘Best Start Up’ Business Excellence Award – something of which they are justly proud. are given an opportunity to learn about motor mechanics, and gain a vocational qualification or some work experience. Young people from the local Pupil Referral Unit, and from St. Phillips in Chessington and other local schools, come to the garage once or twice every week to learn how to work on the specially donated training cars safely,

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Whether your car needs anything from an engine rebuild to a bulb replaced, or you just want to hear what the current trainees are up to – drop in and see them anytime.

Community Motors, Unit 22 Red Lion Business Park, Red Lion Road. KT6 7QD. www.communitymotors.org 0203 177 0070

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To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

B pages 9-16.indd 11

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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13/04/2017 00:58:54

MOTORING

Safety Groups Say

This article featured previously, and some details may have been changed due to new laws etc.

Older Drivers

Get A ‘Bad Press’

Road safety organisations have said forcing elderly drivers to retake their test when they reach a certain age is not the best way to improve road safety.

There has been a recent spate of accidents involving older drivers who police have claimed were not fit to hold a licence.

One accident saw a 16-year-old girl killed by an 87year-old driver who swerved onto the pavement in Colchester, Essex crushing the girl against a wall.

Police had asked the driver to give up his licence three days before the fatal crash after he was involved in a separate crash, an inquest heard.

However, road safety groups have told us that they think incidents involving elderly drivers are more widely reported in the press – heightening the public’s negative perception of older drivers.

“Older drivers do of course make mistakes as do all older people, said Adrian Walsh, director of charity RoadSafe. “There is evidence to show that risk increases as drivers get older, but the type of error is quite different from young drivers – most of them are to do with errors of judgement rather than breaches of the law and most are ‘lapses’. One thing is quite clear – older drivers take less risks.”

Andrew Howard, head of road safety at The AA, agreed, adding: “It is very difficult to base decisions about older drivers on the more outrageous accidents that they have. After all we don’t base our rules on all young drivers around those who pinch cars, speed or drive stupidly to impress their friends.

“By and large, most older drivers are safe drivers.

Risk curves fall from teenage to late 40s and only really begin to turn up again by late 60s/early 70s and sharply by 80s. Even then they struggle to have a risk level challenging the youngest (and fittest) drivers.”

Howard added that stopping older people driving would have immense costs too – both personally and to the economy as other forms of transport would have to be funded.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists said they think older drivers get an “unfair press”.

“In terms of the number of crashes they have they are one of the safest groups on the road and far safer than young drivers between the ages of 17-24,” said the IAM’s Neil Greig. “When an older driver knocks down a pedestrian or drives the wrong way up a dual carriageway they get banner headlines and calls for tough retests. The vast majority of older drivers are responsible adults who know their weaknesses and change their driving to cope with them.”

The IAM wants to see voluntary assessments made widely available, such as its DriveCheck55, where

drivers can refresh their skills, discuss the high risk factors and get an independent assessment without fear of losing their licence.

Meanwhile, Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation, said there is no evidence older drivers have more accidents.

“In fact their safety record is better than that of many young drivers - but their frailty means that when they are involved in collisions they are more likely to be killed or seriously injured,” he explained.

“Rather than introducing compulsory retesting for older drivers, we would like to see the greater promotion of voluntary refresher courses.

Insurance policies which offer discounts to older drivers who do not drive at the riskiest times – such as at night – and on the most dangerous roads would also help.”

by James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)

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Berrylands Autocare * MOT Testing (while you wait) * Diagnostic Testing * Servicing & Mechanical Repairs * Open until 5.30pm weekdays * Saturdays: 9.00am to 1.00pm

250 yards from main line Berrylands Station Providing a service for our local community

167 Surbiton Hill Park, Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8EJ

020 8399 4362

info@berrylandsautocare.co.uk www.berrylandsautocare.co.uk

Mini Cryptic Crossword Across 1. Food arranged on plate (7) 7. Desolate-sounding peer (5) 8. Lot very shaken in an open manner (7) 9. Sally has a change of heart, alas (5) 11. Celebrity eating starter, look (5) 12. Counterfeit note; ergo, duff (5) 14. Call on evil insiders to convene (5) 16. Comeback directed to Piers (7) 18. Either way, it’s a principle (5) 19. Gather her tip averts disaster (7) Down 1. Group behind many plans (5) 2. A story in Tamil, I expect (3) 3. Stylish attire has 50% off in New York! (5) 4. As described, small chasm (5) 5. Salerno (redeveloped city) (7) 6. A poem found on a battery (5) 10. Love letter starting in bold (7) 12. Keep Hungary’s leader out! (5)

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13. Soil shortage, but not the first (5) 14. Six for each snake (5)

15. Flower rarely opening in shelter (5) 17. Girl (certain redhead dumped) (3)

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Outdoor Joys

The best tech toys to take outside

Some of the most entertaining outdoor toys are the simplest, such as the cute Swivel Car (around £22, with lots of firms offering very similar products).

It’s a ride-on car with a difference: instead of pedalling or propelling it with your feet, you swivel the steering wheel and that generates movement.

It’s small enough for toddlers and tough enough for big kids and even the odd adult. If you’d rather go for something more traditional, the Cozy Coupe - around £49 - has been a favourite of families for more than 30 years, and the iconic red and yellow version has been joined by dinosaur and police car versions.

Complex toys can be fun too, of course. One kind of toy that’s improved dramatically in recent years is the electric car or bike for kids. It’s possible to get a decent trike for less than £40 that delivers 50 minutes of movement between charges, while around the £200 mark you’ll find impressive replicas of grown-up cars such as BMW’s futuristic electric i8. Remember that such vehicles do take a while to charge, so make sure you plug them in the night before you want to use them.

If you’d rather not let your child loose behind the wheel

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but want to give them control of something fun, there’s a huge selection of radio controlled vehicles ranging from the toddler-friendly Little Tykes Tyre Twister (£39) to exceptionally fast scale models of performance cars such as Lamborghinis and Porsches.

Even the most expensive of these are much cheaper than they used to be, with top-end models usually coming in well below £70.

Radio controlled cars are fun, but radio controlled flying machines are even more fun.

You know you’re living in the future when you can walk into your local toy shop and come out with a smartphonecontrolled drone helicopter.

Drones start at around £20 for basic ones and reach £190 for Star Wars-themed models, and drones with built-in cameras start at around £60. If you want to get serious, you can find a good selection of advanced drones with HD cameras and optical video stabilisers from around £300, rising to over £1,000 for high-end models.

One word of warning with drones: their propellers can be sharp and cause injury if they bump into people, so it’s a good idea to look for one with a protective ring around

the propellers if you’ll be giving it to a child or using it near kids or pets. And there are restrictions on where you can and can’t fly drones, such as in crowded areas or near airports. It’s a good idea to check up on the law before spending any money. There are also concerns over privacy: the neighbours probably won’t appreciate you flying a camera over their garden.

Do you remember the days of potato guns and water pistols?

They’ve become a lot more sophisticated, with products such as Nerf guns ranging from around £20 to the ridiculously overpowered N-Strike Mega Mastodon (£99), which fires 24 foam darts from a motorised revolving drum. Between it and the super-powered, supersoaking water pistols that have more in common with water cannons than the water pistols you remember from your own childhood, be wary of the weaponry you give your kids because you can be sure you’ll be on the receiving end of the foam darts or freezing cold jets of water.

Images L to R: Swivel Car gyroscopic ride-on car; BMW i8 replica ride-on car; Parrot drone; Nerf N-Strike Mega Mastodon

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› SERVICING & REPAIRS

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COLLECTIONS & DELIVERY

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WVM_A6ADVERT_2.indd 1 CODEWORD

24/07/2015 14:02

Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a different number between 1 and 26.

The codes for three letters are shown. Once you have filled these throughout the grid you can start guessing words and reveal other letters. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.

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South Africa Sani Pass

By Solange Hando South Africa’s highest range almost defies imagination.

Named Drakensberg, or Dragon Mountain, known to the Zulus as Barrier of Spears, it forms the eastern section of the Great Escarpment, a pristine wilderness laced in waterfalls and challenging trails, while on the Sani Pass at 2,874 metres the highest pub in Africa lures day visitors with mulled wine and breathtaking views.

But to stand on the ‘roof of Africa’, one must tackle the hair-raising drive up to the pass. Copper-coloured antelopes graze quietly on the slopes while fresh water springs gurgle on the rocks.

Baboons plod around, baring their teeth to protect their young. At the Good Hope Centre, taxi drivers call out ‘one more customer, just one more’.

Beyond the border post, a no man’s land heads up to the pass and the kingdom of Lesotho on the other side. It’s a mere ribbon of road where four-wheel drives rattle and jerk high above a fast dwindling valley. The track still glows like molten gold in places, more tortuous as you climb, littered with rocks and stones and lined with warning signs. Towering

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boulders send shivers down your spine but there’s nowhere to stop.

One last three point turn and you are there, having gained over 1,300 metres in altitude, fighting for breath in the thin air and almost blown away by ferocious winds and vertiginous views. It’s like the Grand Canyon say the rangers, but everyone heads straight to the Sani Top chalet, teetering all forlorn on the very edge of the escarpment. In this rustic lodge, old letters and photographs mingle with car adverts, shot on the spot but no one knows how, and there are board games to while away the time, carvings, wall hangings and beads to bargain for, and skis and boots lined up on a rack, just in case. Locals talk of dragons, bush men, rock art and over 2,000 species of plants and 300 of birds.

Visitors can stay the night in a luxury African hut or share basic facilities while listening to frightening tales from seasoned backpackers. There’s plenty of Maluti beer to liven up the evening but above the bar, a sign reminds one and all that ‘It’s tough at the top’.

Winters are for skiing, summers

for trekking across vast open spaces, perhaps climbing Thabana Ntlenyana, the highest peak at 3,482 metres, or hiking to Tugela, the world’s second highest waterfall with a total drop of 947 metres.

But most visitors just drive up for a taste of adventure and a hearty reward of steaming home-made soup and mountain trout. The view from the window is fantastic but out on the heath, there are wild carnations and black-faced orchids and lesser kestrels swooping down on invisible prey. Far below, slopes roll down to the valley floor, a soft velvety carpet in shades of purple, pink and gold.

Sometimes a few day-trippers venture into Lesotho, just minutes away, to sit by the fire in a village hut, drink sorghum beer from a communal mug and make friends with Angora goats and children smothered up in blankets. It feels like another planet, bitingly cold, but the highest pub in Africa soon calls you back while at the foot of the mighty Drakensberg, a heavenly valley glows in the late afternoon sun, sprinkled with pink feathery blossom and yellow-wood trees.

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Are You A Car or a Motorbike?

Whether by neglect, a careless attitude or financial constraints, in the longer nights of the winter months I noticed quite a few cars with only one working headlamp or rear light.

I’ve not made an in-depth investigation into the state of UK car servicing, but I have good hearsay evidence from dealer’s service departments that more than a few cars are coming into them way past their service interval dates and with a lot of niggling faults on them too, of which failed headlamps are one. Whether this is down to owners being so financially stretched they are delaying paying service charges, or not bothering to check their cars are working 100% or, if they do, finding such faults doesn’t worry them, I do not know.

But when it comes to external lights they should bother. It’s an offence not to have working lights, and for obvious reasons. I know changing lamps on modern cars is an utter pain, I’ve had personal experience of taking half the engine out just to get to the back of a headlight, but that’s not an excuse not to change it as soon as you know it’s faulty.

Only having one headlight means you could miss that child stepping into the road, and the consequence of no brake-lights needs no explanation.

For us drivers, on meeting your single-lamped car on a dark night our first reaction is that you are a motorbike, so we can prepare to overtake you accordingly - until our lights pick out the rest of your ill-illuminated bodywork.

And by then, to take avoiding action may be too late.

By Iain Betson

ALAN SURSHAM (MOTOR VEHICLE TECHNICIAN)

Registered Office: 1, Orchard Close, West Ewell, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 9NS

Your local MOT TESTER AND SERVICE REPAIRER

ALL CARS COLLECTED AND DELIVERED (LOCAL AREAS)

Interim Service - £85 Full Service - £145 (Parts and Labour included) CARS UP TO 2000 CC Quotes for cars over 2000 cc - please phone

Diagnostics - Brakes - Clutches - Bodywork - Welding etc.

Labour Rate £37.50 per hour Telephone:

Office - 020 8397 8654 Garage - 07784 716 567 (For instant attention)

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

17

Home & Interiors A Home With Character

By Katherine Sorrell

digging a little deeper and considering some more architectural alterations – though they don’t necessarily have to cost a fortune. Here are a few suggestions.

There’s more to interior style than eye-catching accessories. Consider introducing an appealing sense of charm and character with these interesting ideas.

Is your home lacking in an indefinable something? Has it lost its period features? Would it benefit from a dash of gravitas, some appealing detailing or maybe a larger intervention that restores authenticity or aids functionality? While wallpaper, paint, furniture and window treatments can go a long way towards creating a beautiful interior, they can’t solve every problem. Sometimes it is worth

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Improve your floors If you have original timber boards beneath your floor coverings, you are very lucky.

And if they are in good condition, luckier still. Sanding them back, then staining and/ or oiling them, is a relatively straightforward procedure for a competent DIYer who is willing to hire the right equipment (don’t forget lots of sandpaper and a face mask) and spend the time – or you can employ a professional. If the boards are in poor condition, renovation is possible to an extent, or you might consider replacing them with reclaimed boards that match the style of your home.

Homes built between the late 19th century and the middle of the 20th often feature colourful, patterned geometric or encaustic tiles, generally along the hallway and garden path.

Even if they are discoloured or damaged, chances are the tiles are repairable. Find the right specialist to sort them out, and the results will be dramatic.

Think about mouldings From skirting to ceiling roses, door surrounds to dados, mouldings are the building blocks of a home, contributing enormously to its overall look.

Getting them right is not always straightforward; it is worth researching carefully, as they should correspond in scale and design to the age and style of your architecture. Modern replicas are often available, but sometimes it is necessary to go to a specialist, and this is not cheap. How easy they are to alter will depend very much on your individual circumstances – but this is definitely a project to bear in mind if you are considering renovation work.

What about woodwork?

In many a living room that lacks storage, the answer is easy: build across the recesses either side of the fireplace, with cupboards below and display shelving above. Functional and good looking – and the same goes for alcove shelving elsewhere, window seats, wardrobes and other forms of built-in joinery (even kitchen and bathroom units).

As with mouldings, however, do take the time to consider how these additions work with your home overall, so that they complement it in terms of both scale and detailing. And,

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naturally enough, if you are the proud owner of completely inappropriate built-in storage or seating, you might want to plan for removing and replacing them when possible.

Another element of a home that can easily be overlooked is your doors. You might never think about them from one year to the next but, in fact, replacing poor quality or badly designed interior doors with beautiful ones is a major enhancement.

In a period home you might seek out reclaimed examples or find well-made reproductions; you could also decide whether it would be a good idea to paint them or, conversely, strip them (the same goes for wooden shutters, if you possess them).

While on the subject of woodwork, might panelling of some form enhance a room or hallway? It comes in a wide

variety of styles, from Jacobean to contemporary, and is relatively easy to fit – especially if your walls are straight, smooth and dry.

Get the lighting right There are two reasons for improving your built-in lighting – either the illumination within the rooms is inadequate or imbalanced, or the look of the fittings themselves could be improved. You might decide to be discreet and opt for minimal downlighters in the ceiling, choose simple wall lights or versatile LED strips, or go for full-on drama with huge, eyecatching chandeliers; either way, plan this well and you will love your new look.

pull cord – such small details build up into a big picture of your home which make an enormous difference to your perception of it. If you have cheap plastic light switches, for example, you can have them swapped quite easily (and at relatively little expense) for swish, upmarket ones which are not only lovely to look at but also pleasant to touch every time you use them. The same goes for door and window furniture: think, for example, how different your front door would look with a gorgeous, matching set of letterbox, bell and numbers.

All in the details Cupboard knobs, door and window furniture, light switches, plug sockets, even the humble

Main Image: You can buy panelling off the peg or, as here, made bespoke to suit your room. Price varies, Titchmarsh & Goodwin: 01473 252158; www. titchmarsh-goodwin.co.uk.

William Stallion

Painting and Decorating Roofing and Guttering Plastering and Tiling Household Maintenance Loft conversions and extensions

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Marcus & Sarah Baines 020 8390 7549 07702 603 885

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No obligation quotations. References available.

All work guaranteed and fully insured.

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

DOMESTIC INSTALLER

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Berrylands Building Company Spring into Action- Get Planning!

S

tart your Spring by putting your grand plans for improving your home into action. If you are thinking of extending and/or improving your property, now is the time to start planning. Building to a high specification will add space to your home and increase the value of your property.

Berrylands Building Company Is your local firm, with a highly skilled team with over 30 years of experience. We offer a ‘Design and Build’ service which will help take away the stresses of planning your extension.

We come highly recommended by previous clients who agree that we give a professional, approachable and affordable service. Just check out our “Checkatrade” ratings.

• 14 years on Checkatrade • Highly recommended by previous customers Planning is Key Invite us to discuss how we can push your project forward.

We are happy to introduce you to our recommended Architects and Structural Engineers and give advice on planning issues.

Any building project takes time, particularly if you need to gain planning permission. By starting this process early with a reputable firm, you will have help every step of the way to complete a high quality build.

Take a look at our 5 step guide:

1) Invite us to your home to discuss your requirements 2)Meet our recommended Architects and Structural Engineers, or if you already have your plans drawn up, no problem.

3)Get plans drawn up if required, and we will give you a detailed quotation.

4)Allow time to submit your plans for planning permission and/or building control (normally 6/8 weeks for planning) 5)Arrange and book in a date for Berrylands Building Company to start work Latest projects One of our latest completed projects photographed is on Norton Avenue. A full width ground floor single side/rear extension.

See our website for more projects www.berrylandsbuilders.co.uk

Quote: ‘Fantastic job, we are very impressed with the standard of their workmanship’ (Mr & Mrs Ellis)

‘Small enough to care, big enough to deliver’

Contact: Garry: 07941 374 324

E mail: bbuildco@yahoo.co.uk

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•Extensions BERRYLANDS BERRYLANDS •Conversions Property Maintenance Ltd •All types of Paving

Property Maintenance Ltd

iPainting and Decorating and Tiling * Extensions *iPlastering Conversions * All types of Paving iHousehold Maintenance and Repairs iBathrooms Fitted and Refurbished Local builders withandover 30 years experience. iCarpentry Plumbing iFlat Packs and Small Jobs

iPainting and Decorating and Tiling Local builders with over 30 years experience. *iPlastering Conversions * All types of Paving Many local customers with excellent references, iHousehold Maintenance and Repairs Marcus &by Sarah Baines viewings appointment Many local customers with excellent020 references, 8390 7549 iBathrooms Fitted and Refurbished viewings by appointment 603a885 Check out 07702 our Check Trade ratings. ders with over 30 years experience. iCarpentry and Plumbing Check out our Check a Trade ratings. iFlat Packs and Small Jobs 71 Chiltern Drive ,Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8LR berrylands-property@blueyonder.co.uk

customers with excellent references,

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WW.CHECKATRADE .COM,Surbiton, /BERRYLANDSPROPERTYMAINTENANCE hiltern Drive Surrey, KT5Build 8LR Extensions or New Mob: 07941 374 324 No obligation quotations. References available.

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Ken Burgess

proof 3 Dec 10-HP.indd 9

Tele: 07976 837 031 Fax: E-mail: kcbdesign69@gmail.com

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

K B Design

Tel: 020 8399 6276 Mob: 07941 374 324 Marcus &by Sarah Baines viewings appointment Check out our new website: www.berrylandsbuilders.co.uk 020 8390 7549 603a885 k out 07702 our Check Trade ratings.

11/24/2010

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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History The History of Beauty By Catherine Rose forehead with fair brows were prized. Women would often pluck or shave hair from their hairline to achieve this look.

Once married, they were also expected to modestly cover their hair with the elaborate headpieces and veils of the period.

Across history and cultures, the concept of what makes a woman beautiful has changed according to the social background and fashions of the time.

Primitive art usually depicts women as full-figured and often pregnant. This is because fertility was of the utmost importance for those civilizations. Just as today, people also adorned their bodies with jewellery, paint, tattoos and piercings, not only to attract but as status symbols. Status has always played a big part in our concept of beauty.

Throughout the medieval and early Renaissance era, ‘beautiful’ women had narrow shoulders, small breasts, and, often, rounded stomachs. This didn’t necessarily mean they were pregnant but was used to show a woman was desirable and able to have many children.

It was also a religious time and the more virtuous a woman was, the more beautiful she was. A long neck and a high

22

During the late Renaissance and Baroque periods, women became more voluptuous. Food was scarce unless you were wealthy and being full-figured meant you were well-fed and therefore of high status - hence a desirable mate.

In a similar way, if you were light-skinned, you were clearly from the wealthy classes as only the poor who worked outdoors had ‘coarse tanned skin’. So for several centuries pale skin was sought after and often achieved using poisonous lead-based white make-up.

Wigs, which had become very elaborate and tall by the 18th century, were also worn because many women lost their hair to venereal disease. Fake beauty patches or ‘mouches’ were popular to cover up smallpox scars. Made of materials such as mouse fur and velvet, they also became a status symbol.

During the 19th century, the hourglass figure became the height of female beauty.

Achieved using tight whalebone corsets, this was later accentuated by the bustle.

Following WWI and suffrage, a new sense of female liberation revolutionised female beauty.

Hemlines went up and dresses became straighter, giving a slender, more androgynous appearance. Coco Chanel banished the porcelain complexion to history when she showed off a suntan, declaring “a woman can never be too rich or too thin”, arguably beginning the modern trend.

The 1930s-50s saw a return to curves, possibly thanks to the Hollywood film industry.

Wearing make-up also became popular after actors used it to emphasise their looks on-screen. Max Factor was originally a make-up artist to the stars.

The 1960s saw another beauty revolution. Once again women were re-establishing their power and asserting their sexual freedom. Mini-skirts and big hair arrived and Twiggy, the slender, doe-eyed model from north-west London, was the most desirable example of womanhood. Compare her with the women in Rubens’ The Three Graces and you could not have two more opposing ideals.

Over the last fifty years, beauty goals have gone through more subtle changes. Today, with models that range from the catwalk clothes-horse Gigi Hadid and black model Winnie Harlow who has vitiligo, to the curvy Ashley Graham, we seem to be embracing more diversity in women’s beauty than perhaps ever before.

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Est 35 YEARS

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Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.

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23

N

All set for summer at Surbiton Racket and Fitness Club!

ow that summer’s well on its way, we have so much to look forward to and enjoy. For instance, our eleven newlylaid grass courts. Way back in September we made the bold decision to take up all the old grass courts and opt for the perfection of new grass everywhere. Thanks to the winterlong efforts of our dedicated ground staff, our lovely new grass courts will be ready for action in May, and I know we’ll all be desperate to try them out!

Also in May will be the intensive preparations for the annual Aegon Surbiton Trophy, the international men’s and ladies’ tournament which will run from the 3rd of June to the 11th, leading up to Queen’s and then Wimbledon itself. This year there are substantial increases in the prize money for the Aegon Surbiton Trophy, reflecting the Club’s importance in the world of tennis. Our tournament is one of the acknowledged openers of the grass season, just as it has been since the early 1900s.

more to offer our Members than any similar local club. For instance, our four state-of-theart squash courts are all air-conditioned and heated as necessary.

The Fitness Suite has become one of the Club’s major attractions. We have some of the most up-to-date fitness equipment, from cardiovascular aids to resistance machines and free weights.

Alongside is our Studio, which is dedicated to regular classes in Zumba, Pilates, Yoga and Indoor Cycling.

Our Physiotherapy is run in partnership with Kingston Physiotherapy. We also have our own Chiropracter, Neil Reilly. Ring 0208 390 9030 for an appointment.

At Surbiton we’re keen on social activities.

Our events are well-patronised and our regular Quiz Nights are usually over-subscribed.

For this prestigious event we need quite a number of local volunteers to help with the tournament. Tasks could include Court Stewarding, Information or Ticket Management. Some volunteers would also be needed as Chauffeurs for players and officials.

The Clubhouse Bar is a welcoming place, where you can make new friends and relax with a coffee or a drink. If you want cooked food, this can be ordered from our extensive Club Menu. Or, you can just sit and watch sport on TV!

Or, can you offer accommodation? A number of players like to stay in local B+Bs, for which the householder receives a modest fee! Please ring me, Roy Staniland, on 0208 399 1594 if you would like to be an Aegon Trophy Volunteer!

Why not come round and check us out? No appointment is needed! Meanwhile, please put the Aegon Surbiton Trophy firmly in your diary. 3rd June to the 11th – remember? See you then, if not before!

During the Aegon Surbiton Trophy there will also be plenty of Club tennis on our hard courts. Altogether we have nine fast-draining hard courts, and these allow us to run extensive coaching programmes all the year round.

Best wishes

Ours is of course a multi-facility Club, with

0209 399 1594 www.surbiton.org

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Roy Roy Staniland is Director of Surbiton Racket and Fitness Club, Berrylands, KT5 8JT

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R.J. Tree Services & professiona R.J. Tree Services qualified & professional staff arequalified dedicated the highest levels of service in every in to the highest levels of service intoevery instance.

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r.J.tree Services, Berrylands, Surbiton 020 8399 0103 07980 903 881 Visit0096 our website information and videos on all aspects of 25 our work To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 email:for karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

Slug Survival

by Pippa Greenwood

Slugs may be small, but as we all know, they have the potential to drive you crazy!

Whether you have a massive garden, a tiny plot or even if your gardening is restricted to a few planters in a back yard or on a balcony, the chances are that slugs will cause you grief. There are about thirty species of slug in the UK and most feed throughout the year, especially after dark and when the soil is wet or moist… and that seems to mean most evenings in my garden!

Now that spring is here and the weather has really warmed up, they’re out in force, using their tongue-like ‘radula’ (armed with approximately 27,000 tooth-like spikes) to rasp away at our precious plants.

But before launching an attack, there is something you should bear in mind – most slugs actually do little damage to living plants, instead preferring to feast on dead and dying material including flopped foliage and organic mulches. On the whole, the larger slugs tend to do the least damage to plants as they eat almost exclusively decaying and dead material. It

26

is their smaller cousins like the greyish-black keeled slug and the pinkish-beige-grey field slug which are more likely to wreak havoc in your vegetable plot or flower border - they may be small but they are far from innocent. With estimates of about 200 slugs per average cubic metre of average garden soil, the situation can soon get out of hand.

Keeled slugs in particular love to feast below ground, as well as on plants above the soil surface. This means serious trouble, especially at this time of year when many of us are planting out young plants and seeds are starting to germinate. In no time at all slugs can eat through the base of a young stem, killing the plant in the process. As seeds germinate in the soil, these little horrors often eat the seedling even before it has had a chance to emerge above the soil surface! Later in the year, as potato tubers swell beneath the soil and carrots start to fatten they will begin to tunnel into these too.

To make matters worse, they breed quickly and very efficiently – each slug has both male and female organs

and in extreme situations can even fertilise itself. Take a look on the soil surface, beneath drooping foliage and in amongst moist organic matter, and you’re likely to spot the clumps of eggs. Each egg is about 1-2mm in diameter and a clear, milky or off-white coloured sphere.

So what can you do with these squidgy little menaces?

• Go on an evening slug hunt.

In particular, slugs are out in vast numbers after it has rained or you have done some watering, so you can collect up as many as you can.

• Choosing resistant varieties of vegetable is worthwhile too. Check seed catalogues and websites for varieties which are marked up as having useful resistance to slugs. With potatoes, main crop varieties usually suffer most, so try to grow mainly earlies. Some varieties are slug disaster zones e.g. Cara, Maris Peer, Kondor and Pentland Crown, but if you choose Charlotte, Kestrel, Sante or Wilja you are in with a much better chance.

• Try to encourage natural slug predators such as

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hedgehogs, frogs, toads, slow worms and ground beetles.

If you keep hens consider letting them clear the ground for you – but obviously only before you start planting and sowing!

• Use the Nemaslug nematode control – just dilute as described on the pack and water on to moist soil which is at 5˚C or above. It is a treatment I really like because it is harmless to everything except slugs, so pets, wildlife or humans will be safe from any adverse effects. It works swiftly and silently too - you’ll soon see fewer holes appearing in foliage and, if you’re a potato grower and you drench the soil around the potato plants about six weeks before anticipated harvest, the nematodes soon get to work and your potatoes should be virtually slug-damage

free. It is also a brilliant way to clear a slug-infested raised bed or planter; once applied, place self-adhesive copper tape around the rim of the container to keep the contents slug free.

The copper tape is really long-lasting, working for years in my experience. You can find out more about Nemaslug and copper tape on my website at www. pippagreenwood.com/ products/protect-your-crops.

• Barriers such as crushed shells, wool pellets, soot, pine needles or copperimpregnated fabric can also work well, but some of these may need replacing regularly and results seem to vary from garden to garden and gardener to gardener.

• Traps filled with beer can also be a fantastic way to reduce slug numbers in your garden dramatically and,

apart from the somewhat messy (and grim) business of emptying them out, they are simple too. You can buy ready-made traps or make your own using inexpensive plastic beakers plunged into the soil, the rim protruding 1-2cm above the soil surface and filled with a well-flavoured beer. I did a mini ‘trial’ on Gardeners’ Question Time once and found that Guinness worked best - and interestingly alcohol free lager proved least effective!

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com to buy gorgeous UK grown vegetable plants accompanied by weekly advice emails from Pippa, or to peruse the really useful selection of Pippa’s favourite gardening items including SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, raised bed kits, Nemaslug and copper tape, pullout EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides.

LOCAL CARPENTER GARDENER CITY & GUILDS QUALIFIED

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maintenance Trimming, tidying & mowing tidying & mowing maintenance Fencing, decking, gates & sheds timberwork Trimming, decking, gates & sheds timberwork Fencing, paving Patios & paths paving Patios & paths Scaled drawings & planting plans design Scaled drawings & planting plans design For a friendly, reliable service at a competitive rate For a friendly, reliable service at a competitive rate

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27

Leverett Electrical Ltd

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QP advert 1 JAMES ANTHONY Leverett DECORATORS

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O H E T R M You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a normal everyday word.

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020 8397 3146

Birthplaces Choosing from the list on the right, can you name the countries in which the following people were born?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Russell Crowe Emma Watson Bruce Willis J.R.R. Tolkein Nicole Kidman Guy Fawkes Adolf Hitler Cate Blanchett Tony Blair Pamela Anderson

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Australia Austria Canada England France Germany New Zealand Scotland South Africa U.S.A.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Short Story Lost and Found “A gentleman’s come in with a lost and found card for the window.” Carly was new to the job at the village newsagent, and felt as though she was constantly interrupting poor Frances with questions. “What should I say to him?”

“Is he wearing a flat cap covered in badges?” Frances looked up from a pile of invoices.

“Yes,” Carly said. “It keeps slipping over his eyes.”

“That’s Mr Pemrose.” Frances took off her glasses and pushed back her chair. “I’ll be right there.”

The gentleman in question was stood at the counter holding a crisp white postcard.

He smiled at the sight of Frances.

“I’m intrigued to hear what you’ve found this week, Mr Pemrose,” she said warmly.

“I’m glad you asked,” he winked. “I found a cloud of starlings over Kirk’s Farm that looked, for a moment, like the ribbon on a birthday present.”

“How wonderful,” Frances said taking the card from him.

“Carly would you mind putting this in the window so that passers-by can see it?”

Greatly puzzled, Carly took the neatly written card, and squeezed herself between the crisp boxes and the window to reach the lost and found display. “I’m afraid there are no spaces left. Are there any old cards that could be taken down?”

“I’m sure there’s a few,”

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Frances said. “What do you think Mr Pemrose, shall we make some space?”

“Oh yes.” The man chuckled as the hat again slipped over his eyes.

“Maybe the one about the full moon that rolled up Copper Hill can go?”

“Perhaps,” Frances said, “but has that snowy field you found that looked like candyfloss now been returned to its rightful owner?”

“I’m sure someone must have claimed it by now,” Mr Pemrose said, turning cheerfully to Carly. “Can you find it, dear?”

Carly pulled each card out of its slot and read the descriptions. There were lost cats and bus passes, found cats and bus passes, and every now and then she recognised Mr Pemrose’s neat handwriting. These found things were strange. He’d found a cherry tree in full bloom in February, a double rainbow over the moor and the song of a thrush at midnight.

Who could possibly have lost these things she wondered.

Finally, she found a fading card about a field of candyfloss.

“Would you like the old card back?” she asked, slipping the new card into the vacant slot.

“You keep it,” he said, adjusting his hat while opening the door. With a ring of its bell he left.

Carly dusted down her jeans.

“Well I don’t know what he’s found,” she said, “but I strongly suspect he’s lost his marbles.”

“Mr Pemrose is perfectly sane,” Frances laughed.

“But why does he do it?” Carly asked. “No one has lost a flock of starlings, because they don’t belong to anyone, so how can he say that he’s found one?”

“Because a year ago Mr Pemrose saw a card posted in our window which said ‘LOST – MY SENSE OF WONDER’,” Frances said. “Ever since then he’s been trying to reunite them with it.”

“Weren’t you concerned for the person who posted it?” Carly worried.

“Oh, no,” Frances laughed, “the card didn’t originally say that; condensation had made the ink run.”

“So what did it really say?”

Carly asked.

“I can’t remember,” Frances frowned. “A lost umbrella maybe; nothing to lose any sleep over.”

“Does Mr Pemrose know?”

Carly asked.

“If he does it hasn’t stopped him,” Frances smiled.

“Besides, everyone likes to read his cards. We all mislay our sense of wonder occasionally.”

By Jackie Brewster

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Health

By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

These Boots (and Bodies) Are Made for Walking enough to keep vitamin D levels high.

May is National Walking Month.

Yes; sadly, simple old walking needs promoting. Many of us walk far less than previous generations did, yet walking is great for our health and brings other benefits, too.

The Health Benefits Walking as exercise shouldn’t be underrated. Regular walking is proven to reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma, obesity and some cancers, and helps maintain musculoskeletal health. On average, walking 10,000 steps burns 400kcal a day. Walking can also lift your mood and reduce stress, anxiety and depression.

Countryside walks also offer nature, tranquillity and fresh air.

While our skin and eyes do need protection from unhealthy UV exposure, some UV light is essential for good health.

The UV light we absorb while walking can alleviate depression, help to regulate our body clock and stimulate Vitamin D production. Vitamin D boosts immunity, aids blood cell formation and helps us absorb calcium and phosphorous, necessary for healthy bones and teeth. The World Health Organisation says 5 to 15 minutes of casual sun exposure of hands, face and arms 2 to 3 times a week during summer is

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Other Benefits of Walking Accessibility: Walking can be done anytime, anywhere; as part of an everyday journey to school, work or activities, or a special trip. You’re not obviously ‘exercising’, which may reduce any selfconsciousness.

Social: You can walk with a family member or friend, allowing you quality time together. You may meet other people while walking or choose to join a walking group or health walk (see links below).

Environmental: Every time we walk to work, school, shops or activities instead of using transport, we reduce pollution and congestion, helping the environment and improving everyone’s health and safety both now and in the future.

Financial: Simple, level walks require no special clothes or equipment. It’s free exercise that can reduce travel costs, too.

Walking Dos and Don’ts DO wear comfortable, weatherappropriate clothes and footwear. Any comfy footwear and your usual clothes are fine for walking around streets or parks, but you’ll need proper walking boots if walking in rural or hilly areas and waterproofs for bad weather. In warmer weather, remember a sun hat and sunglasses (your eyes can be damaged by the sun’s UV rays just as your skin can).

Apply sun cream before and during your walk.

DO be prepared and safe.

Ensure you take a drink and a snack, especially on hot days and long or more rural walks.

Know where you’re going and how long it will take (and consider telling someone).

Know what weather to expect and don’t play music too loudly - be aware of what’s happening around you.

DON’T ignore pain from footwear. Head back. Blisters can quickly become agonising.

DON’T ignore weather warnings or advice from walking guides, whether written or human, and leave long or challenging hikes until you’re fitter and more experienced.

Walking Routes and Groups

www.livingstreets.org.uk – a charity site with a wealth of useful links and information. www.walkinginengland. co.uk - thousands of free downloadable walks. www.walk4life.info - find routes, organised walks and walking groups. www.walkingforhealth.org. uk - a popular scheme offering 1,800+ free, short walks every week. Search for those near you. www.nationaltrail.co.uk helping you find great walks in England and Wales, whether you want a day out, a good icecream, a short walk or a 630mile adventure. www.ramblers.org.uk - a charity protecting footpaths, promoting walking and organising walking groups.

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Surbiton Farmers’ Market presents The Great Surbiton Bread Bake Off! Can you rise to the occasion?

A

re you a kneady sort? Can you knock out a brilliant bloomer or a fabulous focaccia? Then here comes your chance to be the toast of the town!

To celebrate this year’s Surbiton Food Festival, Surbiton Farmers’ Market is launching The Great Surbiton Bread Bake Off!

competition stalls in front of The Antelope pub on Maple Road on Saturday 20 May before 10.30 am.

Judging the competition will be L o n d o n s o c i a l media food phenomenon The Topless Baker – one of his breadslashing videos has more than 8m views on Instagram! Winners will be announced at midday and awards handed out shortly afterwards.

The competition is open to amateur bakers of all ages with prizes for our two main winners and two runners-up.

We’re asking budding bakers to use their loaf and come up with a delicious doughy delight.

Sounds fun? Then come up with a recipe, have a go and let’s bake it happen!

It could be soda bread or brioche, banana bread or cinnamon rolls, a Dorset lardy cake or an olive and sundried tomato loaf. It’s entirely up to you.

• Have a query? Email: info@surbitonfarmersmarket.co.uk

Once you have produced your culinary creation bring it along to the special To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

Photo Credits: The Topless Baker for the image of the bread;

Ira Giorgetti for the image of The Topless Baker

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Cake and Bake Rhubarb and Almond Tart A delicious tart with a layer of tangy roasted rhubarb topped with a sweet almond frangipane. Serve warm or cold with crème fraiche or vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients:

1. Preheat the oven to 200C/Fan 180C/Gas Mark 6. Lightly dust

a work surface with flour and roll out the pastry to about 3mm thickness. Use to line a 23cm loose-based fluted flan tin. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

• Flour, for dusting • 300g ready-made shortcrust pastry

2. Meanwhile, place the rhubarb, 25g of the caster sugar

and the orange juice in a shallow roasting tin. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until just tender, turning once. Leave to cool.

• 250g rhubarb, trimmed and chopped • 175g caster sugar • 3 tbsp orange juice

3. Trim off the excess pastry from around the edge of the chilled pastry case and prick the base all over with a fork. Line the case with baking paper and baking beans and bake blind for 10 minutes. Remove the beans and lining and bake for a further 5 minutes until pale golden.

• 150g unsalted butter, melted • 125g ground almonds • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

4. Strain the rhubarb from the roasting juices and spoon into the

pastry case. Beat together the melted butter, remaining caster sugar, ground almonds, vanilla extract and eggs in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gently spread over the rhubarb.

• 2 medium eggs, beaten • Icing sugar, for dusting

Serves 8 Ready in 1 hour 30 minutes, plus chilling time

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5. Bake the tart for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden and just set. Serve warm or cold dusted with icing sugar. See tip for serving suggestion.

TIP

For a stylish way to serve the tart, pipe swirls of fruit puree or sieved jam onto individual serving plates before gently placing the slices on top. Decorate with tiny fresh mint or basil sprigs.

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Wednesday

Ladies Night

0208 390 7564

Enjoy a night out with the girls

Free Wine all night with your meal

3 course meal ÂŁ25 To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

www.langleysrestaurant.co.uk

CONTACT US E: info@langleysrestaurant.co.uk T: 0208 390 7564 F: 0208 390 4596 email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk 35 | 158 Ewell Road | Surbiton Surrey KT6 6HE

Camembert & Red Pepper Tarts Makes 4

Ready in 45 minutes

A really quick and easy snack, starter or light supper dish made with just five ingredients.

Ingredients: • 2 large red peppers, deseeded and cut into strips • 1 tbsp olive oil • 250g puff pastry • 150g Camembert cheese, thinly sliced • 150g bag rocket and watercress salad

TIP

Add extra flavour by spreading a thin layer of pesto sauce or tomato chutney in the pastry square before topping with the pepper and cheese.

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Preheat the oven to 220C, 200C Fan, Gas Mark 7. Place the pepper strips in a shallow roasting tin. Drizzle over the olive oil and roast for 15 minutes until just tender. Leave to cool.

Roll the pastry out on a lightly floured surface to a rough square shape the thickness of a pound coin. Trim with a sharp knife to make a 26cm square.

Cut into 4 x 13cm squares. Place the squares of pastry on a baking sheet lined with baking paper. With the tip of the knife, score a border in each pastry square about 1cm in from the outer edge.

Top each pastry square with some of the roasted pepper strips and cheese slices.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the pastry is risen and golden and the cheese has melted.

Serve warm with the salad leaves.

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C.D Jennings & Sons Surbiton’s High Class Traditional Family Butchers Meat of the Highest Quality from the Finest Sources

Serving Surbiton Since 1962 .

Proud Suppliers of: Scotch Beef Scotch Highland & Romney Salt Marsh Lamb Free Range & Gloucester Old Spot Pork Free Range Chickens & Ducks Balmoral & Royal Deeside Venison Kelly Bronze Free Range Turkeys Own Make Sausages, Burgers & Kebabs

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To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

For more information view our website www.cdjenningsandsons.com

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

37

Hobbies A Micro-Brew Hobby With Macro Potential

By Kate McLelland Late last year a study carried out by a London estate agent showed that microbreweries now outperform the so-called ‘Cappucino Index’ (which measures how many new coffee shops have opened) as an indicator that a neighbourhood is “on the up”.

The popularity of microbreweries – small factories set up to produce craft beers, ciders and lagers – is undeniable, but they are simply doing what home brewers have done for years, on a larger scale. It’s good to know that many of the most successful factory owners started out with a simple brewing kit in their kitchen. Rob Witt, who runs a multi awardwinning Nottingham microbrewery, acknowledges that brewing at home is the best way to learn. He says: “I have a lot of people coming to the brewery asking about setting up themselves, but they have never even home brewed. It takes time to understand the finer points of the process and how the many ingredients taste and can work together.”

It’s not just the taste of handcrafted brews that is persuading more people to take up the hobby. Wherever you travel in

38

the UK, you are likely to pay over £3 for a pint of beer, and in London this rises to almost £4 per pint. Compare this with well under £1 a pint for the home-made stuff and you’ll understand why home brewing is so popular.

Starting out The simplest way to try your hand at brewing beer is to buy a kit. You’ll also need a fermenting bin, some water and a warm place to leave your brew.

You can purchase kits to match virtually any style of beer, cider or lager. They generally consist of a sachet of dried yeast and one or two cans of concentrated malt extract.

The amount of malt extract not only determines the flavour and body of the finished beer, it also provides the fermentable sugars that produce the alcohol, therefore the more malt you add, the stronger the brew.

The ‘fermenting bin’ is a big bucket large enough to contain all the water required in the recipe. A standard 25ltr/40 pint fermenter should easily cope with all your brewing needs, as most beer, cider and lager kits make 36-40 pints.

Beer is mostly made of water

and once the liquid has been added, the mixture is known as ‘wort’. At this stage the yeast will be activated, but be warned! Many home brewing experiments fail because the temperature is allowed to rise above or fall below the level required. In summer it’s easier to maintain a constant temperature, but you may need to wrap your fermentation bin in an insulated jacket or use a thermostatic heater during the winter.

The fermentation process is complete when the yeast has converted as much of the sugar as it can to alcohol. More sugar is added to the beer at the bottling stage to improve the brew’s foam, aroma and taste. This process – which ultimately produces the carbonated beer drink we’re all familiar with – typically takes around two weeks and at this stage you’ll need all your reserves of patience!

When the moment to drink your freshly made brew arrives, you’ll have a real sense of achievement. You may not feel ready to run a microbrewery just yet, but you’ll certainly be more popular with your friends and neighbours!

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

39

Relationships This month’s books are all about relationships, from first loves and families to fleeting friendships.

Lucky Boy – Shanthi Sekaran Mexican Solimar risks everything to start a new life in America, but as an illegal immigrant she has few rights.

When she’s thrown into a detention centre, her son is placed in foster care. Kavya is an American-Indian chef desperate for a child. When she’s given Solimar’s toddler to care for it seems like a dream come true. One boy – two mothers, both of whom will do everything in their power in order to keep him. An emotional rollercoaster of a read, this looks set to become one of this year’s bestsellers.

The Lonely Hearts Hotel – Heather O’Neill Pierrot and Rose grow up together in a Montreal orphanage. They bond over a shared love of entertaining people, but go their separate ways as teenagers. Reunited years later, they set out to realise their childhood dream of running their own stage show. Their path isn’t an easy one, however. They both have demons to face, and Rose’s wants her dead. A highly entertaining read, with beautiful, lyrical prose and characters you’ll be rooting for from the beginning.

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A Big Dose of Lucky (Secrets) – Marthe Jocelyn

My Sweet Revenge – Jane Fallon

When the Canadian orphanage they live in burns down in 1964, seven teenage girls set out to discover the secrets of their pasts. Seven authors have each chosen one girl’s story to write. The result is the Secrets series. In A Big Dose of Lucky, Malou heads to a small town in Ontario, hoping to find her birth parents. Malou is mixed race, shy and desperate to fit in. The truth of her birth may give her the family she craves, even if it’s not the one she imagined.

An enjoyable read that will leave you eager to read the rest of the series.

When Paula finds out her husband is having an affair, she decides to win him back – so that she can be the one who breaks the marriage up. She befriends his mistress, Saskia, and sets out on a mission to lose weight, get fit and become the woman he wants. Paula recruits Saskia’s husband, Josh, to help and together they set out to make the cheaters’ lives a misery. An easy read that’s perfect for lazy sunny afternoons.

A Gentleman in Moscow – Amor Towles The gentleman of the title is Count Alexander Rostov.

Following the Russian Revolution, the Count is sentenced to house (or in this case, hotel) arrest, indefinitely.

Given work as a waiter in the hotel restaurant, he forges close friendships with some of the other inhabitants. While his view is mainly confined to what he can see out of his tiny window, Rostov is able to observe and ruminate on a tumultuous Russia over the course of four decades.

You’ll savour every word.

See You in the Cosmos – Jack Cheng 11 year old Alex loves everything to do with space. So he builds a rocket and sets off for a rocket festival in Mexico.

His plan is to launch his rocket into space, attached to an iPod on which Alex is recording his thoughts and feelings about his family and the people he meets on his journey. While it’s been catalogued as a children’s book, See You in the Cosmos definitely has crossover appeal. Fresh, imaginative and full of energy, this is perfect for fans of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.

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Stéphanie Son

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

41

Beauty Here Comes The Sun

by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

A coconut hair treatment, homemade body scrub and the perfect day-to-night palette…meet your new summer beauty kit.

than lipgloss, it hides dry patches and adds a touch of colour. The Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil is available in four shades, including a lip plumping Mint. My favourite is Honey Glam, which gives you a shimmery golden pout. See www.clarins.co.uk.

Lighter evenings are a great excuse for after-work drinks. Bobbi Brown’s new Sultry Nude Eye and Cheek Palette, £48, is perfect for popping in your handbag ready for cocktail hour. The four eyeshadows have a slight metallic shimmer and the blush suits most skin tones. Easy to apply, with great staying power, the powders are housed in a very lust-worthy gold case. The only downside is the lack of brushes. See www. bobbibrown.co.uk.

A sugar scrub is ideal for exfoliating legs that have been hidden away for months on end. And it’s surprisingly quick and easy to make one at home. Just add around two tablespoons of olive oil to four tablespoons of sugar. You’re aiming for a mixture that’s easy to massage into your skin, but not so liquid that it’ll drip all over your bath mat. The sugar acts as a natural exfoliator, and the olive oil is very moisturising, so it’ll leave your skin feeling much smoother. You can also add extra ingredients to the basic scrub. Honey helps your skin to repair itself

If your lips are feeling a bit dry and flaky, Clarins’ Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil, £19, could be the answer.

It’s packed with nourishing oils, including hazelnut and jojoba, so helps to soothe and moisturise lips. Less sticky

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and retain water, so try adding a tablespoon to the mix. If you’re not keen on the smell of olive oil, fragrance the scrub with a couple of drops of essential oil.

There are four core products in Primavera’s new Harmonising Rose and Osmanthus body care range – a body cream, bath oil, body wash and body oil. Designed to nourish skin and provide a real treat for the senses, the products are organic and full of natural ingredients. The bath oil (£22.50) is perfect for a pampering soak after a long day. It smells amazing, and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.

See www.pravera.co.uk.

Imagine advertising for less than the price of a daily cup of coffee!

This size advert for £40 a month

For hair in need of some TLC, try Neal’s Yard Remedies’ Rosemary & Cedarwood Hair Treatment.

Organic coconut oil is blended with essential oils of organic rosemary, cedarwood, and lavender. You only need a small amount, less than a teaspoon. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, but dissolves into a liquid when heated, so just warm it between your hands, then massage it through your hair.

You can leave it on for 30 minutes, but I like to use it as an overnight treatment. (As an added bonus, the lavender scent helps me to sleep.) It leaves hair feeling soft, sleek and much more manageable. £6.50 from www. nealsyardremedies.com.

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     

  

Call Karen now on 020 8274 0096

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                    

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

43

And Another Thing...

Tom and the Pub Quiz

by Tom Hughes @groomsdaybook

8 pm and, like a whippet detecting a downwind hare, Sarah (my Dearly Beloved) lifted her chin and flared her nostrils.

“Tom, what’s that you’re wearing?”

“This old thing? I’ve had it ages - mind you, it matches my eyes beautifully don’t you think?”

“Not the shirt, that aftershave.”

“I think it’s Warrior by Captain Spice.”

“Listen here Don Juan, don’t get any ideas about making moon eyes at the new barmaid down the Old Paraffin Lamp.”

“How did you know about listen, she’s - I’m not - err.”

“Tom, stop stuttering.”

“It’s the pub quiz. Me and Nigel are having a stab at the jackpot. And it’s a roll over seventy quid!”

“Well if you hang on a moment I’ll come with you. Three heads are better than two.”

Resistance being useless,

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I acquiesced, knowing that Nigel would be pleased, carrying as he did the tiniest of torches for my betrothed.

new barmaid to appear. But Fat Frank waddled into view, wiping his hands on a towel.

“Sarah! What a lovely surprise! Sit yourself down here next to me.” Nigel’s gushing immediately raising my hackles as Sarah coquettishly played with her hair and plonked down next to him. “Now, here is our answer paper, here’s a little pen.”

I flicked my eyes around Frank’s considerable girth.

“Where’s Diane?”

“Nigel, she’s not six.”

“You leave Nigel alone, he’s only being kind. Now, what are we going to call ourselves?”

“How about Team Sarah?” beamed Nigel.

“No, no. Team Nigel, I insist,” beamed Sarah.

Smarmy Nigel was getting on my wick. “Listen, never mind the name - who’s going to the bar?”

“White wine for Sarah and I’ll have a pint please, Tom.” Defeated, I trudged forlornly to the bar. Slouching over the worn mahogany I waited for the elegant curves of our

“What’ll you have Tom?”

“Oh it’s her night off. Hey, who’s that on your table giggling at Nigel’s jokes?”

“That Frank, is my wife.”

“Punching above our weight are we, Thomas?”

Ignoring the boorish comment, I returned laden with refreshments and settled down for the contest. Quizmaster Barry, in his annoying nasal whine, began with his pre-quiz announcements. “Now everyone - no Googling phones away please. Right, off we go. Question one - in what year did women get the vote?”

Triumphantly, I grabbed the paper and scrawled down the answer. My other two teammates peered down at the date. There then ensued

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a bun fight that would have embarrassed Jeremy Paxman.

Dates and events flew around the table as The Bellringers on table three (pens down, arms folded) sat smugly, nursing their drinks. On went the questions (and the arguments) until eventually the quiz ended and we all swapped papers.

The Bellringers had our question paper. I glared over as they gurned and squinted at our scribblings, as though they were unreadable.

draw! Team Sarah and the Bellringers are both on 42 points. Can the captains come up for the tie breaker?”

Barry read out the answers.

“Question one. Women got the vote in…1928.”

My mind desperately flashed back to my youth. “Seven!” I shouted.

Sarah glared at me. “I told you Nigel was right!”

My opponent yelled, “Six.”

Shamefully I buried my face into my pint. Then Barry collated the scores and announced, “We have a

Without any consultation I marched up to Barry, to be joined by my rival. Like two prize fighters, we stared each other out. The room fell silent.

I felt my heartbeat thumping in my ears. “OK, first to answer wins the jackpot. In the children’s TV programme Trumpton, how many firemen were there?”

Victorious, I beamed over at our table. Then, catastrophe Barry handed over the money to the Bellringers. “What are you doing?”

Sarah was unimpressed.

“Well, if you’d been a little better clued up about women’s suffrage instead of women’s bodies - or Trumpton Firemen for that matter - we would now be £73.50 to the good.”

Sometimes life (and quizzes) can be so unfair. (And it is seven - Google it).

More and more of us rely on online services, such as Apple’s iCloud, Google Accounts or Microsoft Accounts. And those services are great, but you really don’t want them to fall into the wrong hands.

For example, if someone can get into your iCloud account they can spend your money in iTunes, the App Store and the Mac App Store, access your email, get into your photo library and access anything you’ve stored on iCloud Drive. The answer: add an extra layer of protection with two-factor authentication, or 2FA for short.

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Burning with injustice I got in Barry’s face and hissed.

“And Captain Flack is SEVEN!” Barry reddened and, mumbling something about the rules, scuttled away.

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“They’ve won. Six is the correct answer.”

Incandescent, I protested.

But Barry was not for moving.

Closing his eyes he said, “Pugh, Pugh, Barney McGrew, Cuthbert, Dibble, Grub. Six. Sorry Tom. You lost.”

2FA takes your existing username and password and then adds an extra bit of security, most commonly a text message with a one-off code that’s sent to your phone. Even if someone knows your password, they can’t get in without the code. Google, Apple, Microsoft and many others support 2FA, and it’s definitely worth using.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

45

46

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A New Life For Old Shoes.

A

year ago Shrewsbury Lodge School, Surbiton, initiated a community charitable program with a difference. In 2015 the school hosted a youth rugby team from Laos, SE Asia who took part in a festival with other countries from developing nations showcasing the benefits of youth rugby.

These shoes have now all been distributed and are having a direct effect in preventing injuries and increased participation in the scheme that also provides supplementary education. The programme also strongly promotes gender equality and has over 50% female participation. They currently have over 2,000 children in the scheme

Laos, in South East Asia has one of the lowest incomes in the world with a third of the population surviving on less then ÂŁ1 per day. As such the majority of children have no access to organised sport and its benefits. The playing grounds in rural locations are rough, hard and stony, with the majority of children playing in bare feet or in flip-flops leading to injuries.

The feedback has been amazing but they need more sports shoes. They specifically need gently used Trainers, Astro boots and studded boots in sizes 33 - 39 (UK sizes 2 - 7) in both Male and Female designs.

Recognising an opportunity to be able support the children in Laos and create a true legacy from this visit, Surbiton based, local dad, Steven Blevins, decided to take action and set up CONVERSION – A new life for old shoes! The initial aim was to source and donate 500 pairs of used sports shoes to the boys and girls in Laos per year. The scheme took off with the support of Teddington Rugby Club, Shrewsbury Lodge and DHL. Amazingly within six months the inaugural shipment of nearly 600 pairs of shoes was shipped to Laos. The Laos Ambassador, The Mayor and Mayoress of Kingston and James Berry MP supported an event celebrating this achievement.

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

If you belong to a local school, sports club, organisation and would be interested in hearing more about OR joining in with this community initiative Steve is keen to hear from you.

Steveblevs@outlook.com

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

47

Parenting Safety First

by Kate Duggan

As a parent, your main priority is keeping your child safe. Children, however, often have other ideas. From launching themselves off the back of the sofa to chewing on gravel, they seem to have an innate ability to endanger themselves. Thankfully, it’s never been easier for parents to learn basic first aid.

Learn first aid at home, for free While nothing beats hands on training, a video course can help prepare you for an emergency. ChannelMum. com has teamed up with St John Ambulance to produce a series of short first aid videos aimed at parents. They cover everything from seizures and choking to allergic reactions and burns. Available to watch for free on www.channelmum. com/firstaidcourse, the videos offer practical advice that’s simple to follow and easy to remember. Most are just a few minutes long, so you could plan to watch one a day in your lunch break. www.futurelearn.com also runs regular free online first aid courses. They’re mainly video based, with some articles, group discussions and quizzes.

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Quick home fixes Around 60 children die in household accidents every year. So it’s well worth taking some time to look for any potential hazards. Try to see things from your child’s point of view – get on your hands and knees if needs be. What sharp corners could they bump into?

What furniture could tip over if they tried to climb it? What might they be tempted to chew or taste? Simple fixes include: • Securing heavy items, such as TVs and bookcases, so they can’t topple over if your child pulls at them, or uses them as a climbing frame.

• Locking away any toxic substances, including household cleaning products.

Dishwasher tablets are often brightly coloured and very appealing to a young child, but they can be deadly if swallowed.

• Tying up any blind cords and other strings that a child could get caught up on.

• Cutting up grapes, cherry tomatoes and other fruit lengthwise, before giving them to your child, to minimise the risk of choking.

New car seat regulations You may have heard that

new car seat rules have been introduced, banning backless booster seats for young children. All the rules actually mean is that manufacturers can’t introduce new models of backless booster seats for children shorter than 125cm or weighing less than 22kg. So if you already use a booster seat, you don’t have to change it. That being said, high back booster seats have been found to offer much greater protection to young children than backless ones. So it might be time for an upgrade.

If you are planning to buy a new seat, look for one that offers some side impact protection, such as those by Diono. The Diono MXT, £85, is a good choice. Unlike some seats, both height and back width can be adjusted very easily, so it can be used for children between 97 and 160cm tall. There’s a choice of four colours and the covers are removable and washable. Our testers (aged five and seven) found the MXT very comfortable. It also kept them in an upright position when they slept, rather than allowing them to slump over.

And they loved the snack trays (mainly for storing seashells and crayons) - see www. uk.diono.com.

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Why not advertise in A Berrylands Companion?

This half page advert is ÂŁ90 for one month To find out about the longer packages available call: 020 8274 0096 or email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

This quarter page advert is just ÂŁ51 for one month This full page advert is ÂŁ144 for one month.

To find out about the longer packages available call: 020 8274 0096 or email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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49

Dust off your Decca’s

F

Kingston RPM: Records, People & Music

rom moth eaten band t-shirts, screwed up tickets, dusty Decca records, badges, programmes, photographs and the story of that one time when… we need you!

Creative Youth is searching far and wide for objects, memorabilia, photographs and most importantly, your stories from Kingston’s rich music heritage.

• Creative Youth launch public call out for information relating to Kingston’s music heritage between the 1940’s and 1970’s • Kingston RPM; Records, People and Music funded

by Heritage Lottery Fund, Arts Council England and the Royal Borough of Kingston and delivered in conjunction with local partners, Kingston Music Service, Kingston University, Kingston History Centre and the Rose Theatre Did you go to gigs in Kingston in the swinging 60s? Catch David Bowie performing Ziggy Stardust at The Toby Jug in the 70s? Work at the Decca Records factory in New Malden? Any stories to tell about Kingston’s Army days?

If so, we’d love to talk to you!

Kingston RPM: Records, People & Music, a new project from Creative Youth, is a homage to Kingston’s rich and varied musical heritage between the 40s and 70s. Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Arts Council England and the Royal Borough of Kingston, we want to tell Kingston’s story. How the likes of David Bowie, Led Zeppelin, and Cream performed gigs here. How the American Army, who were based locally in Bushy Park, made a massive contribution to the progressive music scene, regularly holding dances, marching their band over the Bridge and bringing along with them, new jazz records previously unheard of this side of the Atlantic.

We are on the lookout for any memorabilia, photographs or stories relating to Kingston’s musical history between the 40s and 70s; from the

50

army bands that came over in the 40s, to T-shirts, ticket stubs, programmes and badges from gigs in Kingston in the 50s, 60s and 70s.

Kingston RPM will feature a 12-week exhibition at the Rose Theatre from June and will peak with a record fair and host of live gigs in July, as part of the International Youth Arts Festival.

Cllr Andrea Craig, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Heritage, Arts and Leisure at Kingston Council, said: "We need your help to capture the rhythm of Kingston between the 40's and 70's for an exciting joint music project. Music and memorabilia are incredibly emotive, whether it's a band t-shirt, a much-loved record, a ticket stub or even a fond memory, it can transport you back to a time or place in an instant. Take part, tell your story and help us create a picture of Kingston's music history together for all to enjoy this summer."

So, please, go and check those dusty boxes in the loft, or on top of your wardrobes. Check in with your grandparents, dig into those untouched old record boxes, photo albums or stacks of old magazines & newspapers. Help us tell the story.

You can get in touch with us via email at kingstonrpm@creativeyouthcharity.org, through our social media channels using #kingstonrpm on @_CreativeYouth (Twitter) or https://www.facebook. com/CreativeYouth1/ or by calling the Creative Youth office on 020 8549 2120.

For further information about the project, please contact project manager, Molly Freeman: 07845 645834 / molly@creativeyouthcharity.org

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Free ‘Fit as a Fiddle’ courses for April 2017 Are you over 50, live in the borough of Kingston, and want to get fit, lose weight and improve your wellbeing?

Why not join a free 6 week course ! Choose an activity that suits you from: Nordic walking: Richmond Park, Tuesday 18th April,10.30am Aquacise: Kingfisher, Kingston, Wednesday 19th April, 11.30am Body Balance: Tudor Drive library, Kingston, Thursday 20th April, 1pm Chair based exercise: Tolworth Hospital, Surbiton, Friday 21st April, 1pm

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To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

email: grace.shorthouse@staywellservices.org.uk

51

Surbiton Arts Group’s Spring Exhibition

T

his year Surbiton Arts Group, celebrate their 70th year.

George L Eccleshall, a past Chairman of the group wrote: “In the summer of 1947 Britain was weary and in need of brightening up.

The six years of war had ended; but servicemen were still being released according to age and length of service and rationing was still in force.

Kenneth Bidmead, a schoolmaster by profession and later Mayor of Surbiton, which at that time was separate from Kingston, organised an art exhibition to be held in the Council Chamber building at the junction of Berrylands road and the Ewell Road. Various local residents, including myself, submitted pictures and the exhibition was a success.

Following that, a number of the more active artists who had taken part, including a fair sprinkling of professional artists and at least one first-class sculptor, formed a society and gave it the name of Surbiton Arts Group”.

As part of the celebration of 70 years,

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the Spring Exhibition will include a specially painted collection of small pictures with an image size of 70 square inches in addition to the usual display of the member’s new work, all of which will be available to purchase.

The Spring Exhibition will be held in the Surbiton library hall, Ewell Road, Surbiton, and opens on Saturday May 27th at 2 pm and closes on Saturday June 3rd. The opening hours are 11 am to 5 pm on the 30th, 1st, 2nd and, 11 till 4 pm on June 3.

With over a hundred pictures plus cards on display, entrance and parking is free at the rear of the hall.

Contact info. surbartgp@aol.com.

Alan Williams 020 8397 1050

The image used for flyers for the 2017 spring exhibition is ‘The Gulls’ painted by Daniele Mandelli, voted favourite painting at the autumn exhibition

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A Proverbial Life...

Ne’er cast a clout till May be out I’ve come to the conclusion I’m a wimp who must always be warm, comfortable and, if possible, cosseted from the vagaries of the British weather.

If there’s a nip in the air I’ll be wrapped up warmly. If it’s raining I’ll be wearing boots, raincoat and carrying an umbrella.

If it’s windy I’ll be buttoned up, tucked in and firmly anchored to my clothing. Yep, I’m definitely a wimp.

I never used to think I was a wimp. I was just sensible, dressed appropriately and ‘keeping out the chill’. However, a number of recent events have caused me to question this belief.

Firstly, last week the sun shone briefly, weakly and without any warmth. It certainly wasn’t hot enough to discard any clothing, but that’s just what I saw in my local town. Several people (admittedly in their teens) strutting around in shorts and t-shirts. Now, from a distance they looked very nice, but up close the chattering teeth, goose bumps and mottled legs told the true story. I was so tempted to tell them to put on something warm. Not that it’s any of my business...but I am at that age when I feel I can comment on anything and everything.

Secondly, whilst driving home one very wet night, I saw a large crowd of teenagers (there’s a theme developing here), absolutely soaked to the skin.

All their finery dripping wet, their hair bedraggled, mud splashed up the back of bare legs and trousers trailing in the puddles. They strolled casually, heads down, shoulders hunched against the rain and sleeves pulled down over their hands – as if that would keep them dry! As it had been raining steadily all day I assume they had not simply been ‘caught out’ by the weather, but had gone out without coats or jackets.

I drove past at a snail’s pace to avoid splashing them further, but they were so wet already that I’m sure they wouldn’t have noticed a tidal wave engulfing them.

I also resisted the urge to wind down the window, ask them where their coats were and advise them that a bin bag made a good emergency waterproof – not that they had any bin bags of course.

Finally, I saw a male jogger cracking along at a great pace one very chilly morning; clutching a plastic bottle of water, headphones in ears and wearing what looked like very expensive trainers.

His only other clothing was a pair of tiny black silky shorts; he was totally bare chested (I would like to say ‘topless’ but I’m not sure if this applies to males). Jogging or running would soon have anyone ‘glowing’, but this guy was positively steaming heat into the cold morning air – can’t be good for you.

I mentioned him to my son who said that perhaps he was training for an Iron Man event. I didn’t even know such things existed. If he doesn’t take care he’ll soon be ‘rusty man’ with the amount of sweat he was generating.

So there you have it – I’m a wimp (or I could just be getting old). I like to be dry, warm and protected from the elements.

As the months pass I will gradually divest myself of layers of clothing: first the hat and scarf, then the boots and finally the coat.

A good indication that summer has arrived is when I’m seen without a cardigan... but I’ll always have one close to hand.

by A. O’Brien

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

53

Ignition Dance Festival 2017

N

ow in its fourth year, Ignition Dance Festival are thrilled to announce the 7 choreographers who have been chosen, from 725 applications this year, to lead the dance at the Rose Theatre, Kingston on June 16th 2017. The line-up includes artists from a Kathak, Contemporary, Neoclassical and Dance-Theatre background, allowing the audience to experience a beautiful array of dances all on one stage.

Ignition 2017 demonstrates the extraordinary breadth, depth and diversity working in the UK today and the appetite for the support that Ignition Dance Festival offers. The 7 choreographers include soloist Maria Yacoob, contemporary dance duo Eleanor Perry & Daniel Hay Gordon, and Dane Hurst, who was nominated for Outstanding Modern Performance and in 2014 received the Best Male Dancer of the Year award by the Critic's Circle National Dance Awards.

Centre, Ballet Black and Rambert, will also be creating new short dance works which will be premiered at Ignition’s innovative Choreographic Platform on Friday 16th June at the Rose Theatre Kingston.

The festival’s unprecedented line-up provides a rare opportunity to glimpse a rich and diverse programme of dance from some of the UK’s best and most visionary choreographers. Supported by Arts Council England and the Royal Borough of Kingston produced by DanceWest.

Rosie Whitney-Fish, Director of DanceWest: ‘Ignition is a unique festival – our specially designed career development package provides a productive environment to create new choreography. We were delighted with the number of high quality applications which demonstrates an appetite and importance of a festival of this kind’.

Kathryn Woodvine, Arts Commissioning Manager, Kingston Council: ‘Ignition is such a unique festival offering audiences the chance to watch short, sharp high quality dance pieces. It is not to be missed!

Casson & Friends, independent choreographer Holly Noble, Kathak quartet Urja, and the highly sought after Henri Oguike, who has been commissioned by the likes of Phoenix Dance Theatre, Southbank

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Tickets on sale from the Rose Theatre box office, Ignition Dance Choreographers’ Showcase www.rosetheatrekingston.org Tel: 020 8174 0090.

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City Aberdeen Bangor Bath Belfast Cardiff Chester Derby Dundee Durham Edinburgh Ely Hull Lincoln London Norwich Oxford Perth

Plymouth Reading Ripon

Southampton Stirling Sunderland

Find the words of British cities in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

Ballet in Surbiton Royal Academy of Dance Examinations St Andrew’s & St Mark’s Junior School Surbiton

Classical Ballet

020 8398 2463 / 6140 EMail: balletinsurbiton@aol.com

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FRIENDS & FAMILY DAYS We are looking for new members our 25,to26join April & 4club.

July

to 6pm Come along to2:30 Club Night any Tuesday

Summer Term begins Saturday 22nd April 2017 Autumn Term begins Saturday 9th September 2017 For more information contact:

SURBITON BOWLING CLUB Alexandra Recreation Ground, Surbiton

and on Tuesday evenings at 5.30 from mid Bowls equipment coaching April through to midand September

IT’S FREE provided OF CHARGE, NO OBLIGATIONS AND EVERYONE IS Under 16’s must be accompanied by MOST WELCOME!!

an adult.

BOWLS EQUIPMENT & COACHING PROVIDED Under 16’s wear must beflaccompanied by an adult to Please at soled trainers

Please wear flat soled to protect the playing protect thetrainers playing surface. surface ForFor information ‘phone Keith on 020 call 8390 0638 or information please Brian email: surbitonbowlingclub@yahoo.co.uk

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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QUIZ SOLUTIONS CROSSWORD SOLUTION

HIDATO SOLUTION

CODEWORD SOLUTION

3 Letters HEM HER HOE HOT MET OHM ORE ROE

ROT THE THO TOE TIN TOR 4 Letters HERO HOME

MORE MOTE ROTE TERM THEM TOME TORE 5 Letters HOMER

METRO OTHER THROE 6 Letters MOTHER

WORDWHEEL ANSWER FORTUNE

BIRTHPLACES 1. Russell Crowe: New Zealand. 2. Emma Watson: France. 3. Bruce Willis: Germany 4. J.R.R. Tolkein: South Africa. 5. Nicole Kidman: U.S.A. 6. Guy Fawkes: England. 7. Adolf Hitler: Austria. 8. Cate Blanchett: Australia.

9. Tony Blair: Scotland. 10. Pamela Anderson: Canada.

CHILDREN’S PAGE The true / false answers are: 1. True 2. False 3. True 56

WORDSEARCH ANSWER What is the city, but the people.

William Shakespeare WORD LADDER ANSWER (This is one solution, there may be others)

RAIN lain laid land lane line FINE

Please mention the magazine when contacting Advertisers

This article has previously featured.

To Go Or Not To Go

P

eople in their early twenties can’t defer retirement planning if they want a reasonable lifestyle in later years. But young people today face a financial situation similar to ‘The Perfect Storm’. The elements are combining to create conditions that sink any hope for school leavers to achieve financial independence during their lifetime.

A common problem is deciding whether to continue education beyond A-levels and face university tuition fees and student loans, or take an alternative route.

Those who want to study medicine, law, engineering etc, will have to go to university, but their earning potential will enable them to repay their debts.

However, with graduates owing as much as £30,000, or even more, we should stop encouraging higher education for all and be more selective in determining who will benefit. Unless the result is a valuable degree, it is reckless to begin working life with a massive debt resulting from study, that will have little impact on eventual earnings.

Many graduates with mediocre degrees strugglt to find employment. Parents who spend tens of thousands funding university degrees should consider investing that money for their children in other more practical ways. A potential student can get a head start in life by saving instead.

We have to change the stigma attached to not attending university. The pressure and expectation of continued education needs to be reappraised. For most young adults, it’s entirely possible to achieve success in life without a degree. The difference is attitude, focus, enthusiasm and a good work ethis.

There are employers who accept the responsibility of formal career development programs and more companies should follow suit. The employer may argue that a degree is evidence of a job applicant’s intellegence, but perceptive interviewing can reveal the same. If employers think a degree is essential, they can contribute to fees and give time off to employees.

The prospects for a successful future are as good as ever if you plan the right course, whether that be university or otherwise.

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

In the meantime, we should campaign for companies to take a more enlightened view on recruitment and ‘hire for attitude and train for skills’. Below are ten tips for today’s school leavers who are in doubt about taking the going-to-university default. * Think about your skills and aims and determine the most sensible course for you. Bowing to peer pressure is not a good strategy. * Seek advice from qualified, unbiased people - not just mum and dad or family friends. * Get a job with a reputable company, regardless of size or poor pay. It’s gaining experience, developing skills, gaining confidence and developing a reputation. You’ll move on to better things before too long. * Be an ‘extra miler’. Have a great attitude, enthusiasm and develop self discipline. * Start thinking longer term about what you want to do. Plan three to five years ahead. * Find a mentor. Most successful people attrbute some of it to another person. * Begin to set specific goals, both for your career and life. * Stand out from the crowd, rather than being influenced by them and choose your friends and associates with care. * Finally, and I wanted this at the top of the list, but modesty prevailed, read my book ‘Power Secrets of the Rich and Successful’. It’s taken from the best university of all... the University of Life! It’s a proven guide to Wealth, Health and Happiness.

David Reynolds, www.powersecrets.co.uk

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

57

COMMUNITY PAGE Surbiton & District Historical Society

Tues 2nd May: Mr Brian Parson to speak on “Frederick W Paine - Serving the Community in War & Peace” Tues 6th June: Mr David Sheen is the John Lewis Archivist and will talk on the history of the store, from its very beginnings.

Tues 4th July: Dr Jonathon Oates will give an illustrated talk on “The Jacobite Rebellions of 1689 - 1746” Meetings start time: 7.45pm at Surbiton Library Hall, Ewell Road, Surbiton. Visitors welcome, Contribution of £2 appreciated For more details about meetings and the Society, call The Secretary: 020 8399 4473 Email: lenandmarilyn@virginmedia.com

sfmflyer2016.indd 1

Disclaimer

For all gardeners and allotment holders!

We are a small friendly local society providing gardening supplies at very reasonable prices to our members: 9 Seeds, summer and spring bulbs, onion sets, seed potatoes.

9 Summer bedding plants and other young plants according to season.

9 Traditional and organic fertilizers and soil improvers/conditioners.

9 Lawn and rose treatments, weedkillers, pest controls.

9 Growbags and bagged compost, pots, gloves, trays, canes, netting etc.

Annual membership just £2, senior citizens £1.

Website:www.horticultural.moonfruit.co.uk Email: chesshort@live.co.uk

Our trading hut is conveniently sited at Moor Lane Allotments (just off Moor Lane near The Bonesgate pub) Open every Sunday 10am to 12noon, except December.

In accordance with our "members only" policy, new members are always welcome to join!

Annual Membership just £2.50, senior citizens £1.50

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05/11/2016 16:37

Whilst all reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included in A Berrylands Companion , the publisher takes no responsibility for the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers, or for the loss arising from non-publication of any advertisement.

Any errors, omissions or offers are the resposibilty of the advertiser. All artwork is accepted on the condition that the advertiser has obtained permission from any copyright holder for its use by A Berrylands Companion. Whilst every care is taken when printing artwork, we cannot guarantee an exact colour match due to variations in print processes. Bookings are accepted only on this basis.

It is the advertiser’s responsibility to submit any amendments to adverts by the deadline date of the 8th.

To advertise any event, or community activity in the magazine, please call: Karen on 020 8274 0096 or email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

Please mention the magazine when contacting Advertisers

27. Plant - sucking insects (5)

Down:

COMMUNITY PAGE

1. Terminate gradually (5,3) 2. A Sultanate in northwestern Borneo (6) 3. Horologist (10) 4. Slightly open (4) 5. Engage somebody to enter the army (6) 6. Represents or performs as if in a play (6) 8. Come to terms with (7) 9. Shortened term for provocation (5) 13. Returning to political office (10) 15. Unusually great in size (7) 16. After sunrise and before sunset (8) 17. Strong and sharp (5) 18. Having little emotion or sensibility (6) 20. Add to the very end (6) 22. The highest point; culminate (6) 24. Compass point (4)

Remember, you can pick up a copy of A Berrylands Companion magazine at the following: C.D.Jennings, B&M Budget Store, Surbiton & Tolworth Libraries, Shan’s Pharmacy, Tolworth Recreation Centre, The Lamb, MBE Surbiton, Surbiton Superstore, Ewell Road, Collinson Optician, Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club.

October Sudoku

Read it whilst you wait at: Aspen Vets, Berrylands Autocare Garage, Cornerhouse Dentist If you would like copies at your business please call me on:

020 8274 0096

HOOK ALLOTMENTS AND GARDENS ASSOCIATION Are you interested in gardening?

Did you know there is an association in Hook?

Our Association was founded over 50 years ago and is run36 by volunteers, can provide a E Page 33-40.indd wide range of composts, fertilisers, seeds and other gardening products at not-for-profit prices to our members. We support gardeners and allotment holders.

We currently have full and half plots available to rent. Contact: John on 07807 300 749 Membership is £2.50 a year and new allotment holders have free membership for the first year Our trading facility is situated next to the entrance to the allotment plots, beyond the rugby club pavillion, rear of King Edward’s Recreation Ground, Hook Road, Chessington Open: Sundays 10am - 12 noon Feb - Nov 10am - 11am Nov - Jan

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

Deadlines for submitting new artwork for forthcoming issues of A Berrylands Companion 8th May for June issue 22/01/2010 00:22:03 June 8th for July/Aug issue Aug 8th for September issue Sept 8th for October issue 8th Oct for November issue 8th Nov for Dec/January issue 8th Jan for February issue 8th Feb for March issue 8th March for April issue 8th April for May issue For more information call Karen on 020 8274 0096 or send an email to

karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

59

What’s on in May:-

Events in May:

Hepatitis Awareness Month; Cystic Fibrosis Month

National Share a Story Month; Action on Stroke Month; National Walking Month 1st: Early Spring Bank Holiday

World Asthma Day 1-7th: Deaf Awareness Week; Viral Meningitis Week; Donkey Week 5th: Kingston Mayor’s Charity Ball, Raven’s Ait. £65pp, Black Tie, Evening/

Cocktail Dress, Incl Ferry, drink, 3 course meal, music & dance.

6th: Christ Church Surbiton, Charity concert by Linden Wind Orchestra, ‘An

American in Parish’, a light classical, opera and film music by American

composers. 7pm for 7.30pm start. Tickets £12, £5 for under 18s. Contact: 020

8390 7215 or email office@ccsurbiton.org

Real Bread Week; National Doughnut Week 6-21st: Surbiton Food Festival.

7th: Seething Freshwater Sardine Festival in Claremont Gardens 1 - 6pm FREE

All day food stalls, entertainment

3pm Mighty Sardine Catch at Queen’s Promenade

3.30pm Seething Villagers’ Sardine Procession to Claremont

Gardens

4pm Sardine BBQ in Claremont Gardens 7-12th: Red Cross Week 8th: Deadline for submissions for June issue of A Berrylands Companion.

8-19th: Foster Care Fortnight 10th: Bike to School Day 12th: International Nurse Day 13-14th: Surbiton Village Fête. 12 - 6pm

Dry Hopped Beer Festival, St Andrew’s Square 17-20th: London Museums at Night 20th: The Great Surbiton Bread Bake Off!

Surbiton Community Sports Day and Picnic & Fun Dog Show 12 -

4pm in Victoria Recreation Ground

Kingston Museum: Families Beyond Sight 2 - 4pm £3/child Call to book 23rd: Sensory Landscapes at Kingston Museum 2 -4pm, Free. Call to book 23-27th: RHS Chelsea Flower Show 27-3rd Surbiton Arts Group Spring Exhibition at Surbiton Library Hall. Open 2-5pm

FA Cup Final at Wembley 29th: Late Spring Bank Holiday 30th: Surbiton Arts Group Exhibition open 11-5pm , and on 1st and 2nd June; 11-4pm

on Saturday 3rd June

Events in June:

1st: West End Live in Trafalgar Square TBC 2nd: Kingston Museum Under 5s Special Senses 10.15 - 11am, Free, drop in.

3-11th: Aegon Surbiton Trophy at Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club, Berrylands 7-24th: Hampton Court Palace Festival 10 & 17th: Kingston Museum: Families Special Feeling Colourful. 2 -4pm £3/child Call

to book.

8th: Deadline for submissions for July/August issue of A Berrylands Companion.

14-18th: Taste of London top restaurants feature in Regents Park 16th: Ignition Dance Festival at the Rose, Kingston.

17th: Queen’s Offical Birthday Trooping the Colour 17-18th: Open London Squares 18th: Fathers’ Day 21st: Solstice, Longest Day 30-9th July: British Summertime live music & entertainment in Hyde Park.

60

Please mention the magazine when contacting Advertisers

What’s On/Local Events

1st Tuesday: NHS Retirement Club, 10-12pm at Christ Church Hall, Christ Church Road, Surbiton, KT5 8JJ. For information call Lorna: 020 8337 4121 Last Sunday of the month: Women on Wheels, meet outside Clas Ohlson Market Place 10.00. 020 8547 5865. E-mail: ccst@rbk.kingston.gov.uk Art Classes: Every Monday 10-12noon & 2-4pm, with Berrylands Artists at Berrylands Christian Centre, 41 King Charles Road, Surbiton, KT5 8PF. Info: 020 8644 0941 Berrylands Women’s Club: Meets every Mon evening, 8pm at Elgar Hall, United Reform Church, Raeburn Avenue, . Talks, slides and outings. Contact: Joyce Johnson Tel: 020 8390 5817 Broadway Sequence Dance Club: Meets every Monday from 8pm at The Raeburn Hall, Tolworth United Reform Church, Raeburn/Elgar Avenues. New sequences are taught, some knowledge of ballroom dancing required. Contact Brenda Deane for more info: 020 8390 0233. www.broadway sequencedance.co.uk Chinese Brush Painting: Held once a month at Sunray Community Centre, Knollmead, Tolworth. 1013.00pm Contact Gwen: 020 8398 7313. Beginners & intermediates welcome.

Encore Singing Group: Mondays, 10am - 12.15pm in Berrylands. For info: gillyvor@hotmail.com Kingston Camera Club: Camera enthusiasts welcome. Meet Mon eves, at St John’s Ambulance HQ, Athelstan Rd off Villiers Avenue. 7.30pm - 10pm with coffee break. New members welcome. For more information visit: www.kingstoncameraclub.com Kingston Pensioners’ Forum: Meets 2nd Monday each month at Reform Church, Eden Street, at 2pm.

New members welcome. Talks, outings and tea and coffee. For more info: Pam Wilson Secretary, 020 8241 9913, www.kingstonpensionersforum@hotmail.co.uk Kingston Philatelic Society: Meets 8-10pm on 1st Thurs & 3rd Fri, at Surbiton Library Hall, Ewell Road.

Info: Brian Sole Tel: 01932 220 677 or email: brian.sole@btinternet.com Ladies Exercise Club: Friendly & fun exercise/movement class for ladies 65+ at Berrylands Christian Centre, King Charles Road. Friday 10.15 - 11.15am plus coffee. Come & try first, free first class. Call Mary, 01483 284 716 or maryedwards@uwclub.net Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom:Wednesdays. Learn Regency dancing at St Mark’s Church Hall, Surbiton, 8pm - 10.30pm. Cost £5 per eve. See advert. Contact Libby Curzon, 020 8391 1215. Email: curzone@hotmail. com Oasis daytime group for over 60s: at Emmanuel Church, Grand Avenue, Tolworth. Plenty of opportunity to chat, play games, do puzzles. Meetings, Wednesday 17th May, includes a 5 minute Bible-based talk.

Meetings on Wednesdays fortnightly, at 2.30pm. Tel: 020 8390 6631.

Open Door: Alternate Thursdays, 2.30 - 4.15pm, from February. Meetings on 11th and 25th May. A friendship group aimed at seniors. Afternoon tea, chat and short talks from local organisations. Christ Church Lounge, King Charles Road, Surbiton. 020 8390 7215 St Marks Church:Weds mornings 10.00-11.30 Stay and Play for Toddlers and Carers at St Mark’s Church Hall, St Mark’s Hill. Friday Mornings Coffee and Cake corner 10-11.30am, drop in for coffee at St Andrew’s Church, Maple Road, no booking required for any of them.

Scottish Country Dancing: On Thursdays 7.30pm - 10.30pm at St Mark’s Church Hall. Tuition for half an hour from 7.30. Membership £5 a year, Members £3/evening, non-members £4. Join our friendly, informal club for good fun and an easy way to excercise. Check website: www.surbitoncaledonian.co.uk or call: 01932 784 866 ‘Sing on Purpose’ at the CornerHouse, Douglas Road, KT6 7SB. All welcome, £5 per session. Adults: Mondays 9.30 - 10.30am; Youth: Fridays 4.45 - 5.45pm. Contact: Steve or Pam 07763 081320 Surbiton Arts Group: Meets monthly on Mondays 8-10pm for lectures and demonstrations in Surbiton Library Hall. Exhibitions twice a year. For info: Call Alan 020 8397 1050 Surbiton Club for the Blind and Visually Impaired: Meets alternate Tues 2-4pm at Surbiton Hill Methodist Church, Ewell Road. Social club with entertainment and tea. Transport available if necessary.

For information: 0744 364 3716 . Volunteer drivers very welcome.

Surbiton Floral Club: 1st Weds of the month at Raeburn Hall United Reform Church, Elgar Avenue. 7.30 for 7.45pm start. Floral demos, talks, workshops & outings. Tel: 020 8399 8193 Talking of Trains in Surbiton: Programme of talks at Surbiton Library Hall, each Wednesday evening from 23rd Sept, throughout winter months. First meeting free, fee for complete year is £50. Details on www.talkingoftrains.co.uk For further information contact: David Blackmore, 020 8391 1116.Em: dandp@ blueyonder.co.uk Tiny Tunes: Mon 10am & 10.50am at Surbiton Library Hall. Tues 10am & 10.50am at St Nicholas Parish Church, Summer Rd, Thames Ditton. All sessions 40 mins long, features music, dance, parachutes, bubbles & pom-poms. Age 3 months -5 years, pay as you go £5, siblings £2.50 www.tinytuneslive.com If your club or society is not listed on the Local Events, send in the details!! Why not send in your events for Summer for the What’s On page ?Clubs, Schools, Churches, & Charity events should be submitted to karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Index Please mention the magazine when contacting advertisers 27 20/21 19 5 28 31 23 28 21 23 28 23 63 25 29 39 27 19 18 26

Home & Garden All Your Garden Needs Berrylands Building Company Berrylands Property Maintenance Carpets4U Chris Mould Plumber Dream Doors (Kingston Kitchens) George Curren Electrical James Anthony KB Design Kevin Robinson Decorators Leverett Electricals Oven Cleaners Pro-Fit Windows Systems R.J.Tree Services Shaun Overy Heating & Plumbing Time4U Will Lord William Stallion Electricals House & Interiors Gardening by Pippa Greenwood

42 32

Care & Health Confidental Clinic - Dental Practice Chessington Hypnotherapy Clinic Fit as a Fiddle Beauty Health

41 43 45 55 64

Rest & Relaxation King George Field Bowls Club Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom Classes Rebel Waltz Cycle Solutions Surbiton Bowls Club Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club

55 41

Children & Education Ballet in Surbiton Stéphanie Son Translations

7 7 7 6

Veterinary Aspen Veterinary Surgery Cats Protection League Paradise Pets Pet care

51

Solicitors Lewis-Dick

2 29 51

62

12 13 10/11 9 15 17

Car Maintenance Alan Sursham Berrylands Autocare Community Motors K&P Tyres Walsh Vehicle Management Drive

37 35 41

Food & Drink C.D.Jennings Langley’s Restaurant Prithi

58/59 36 60/61 11 44 3 26 46 50 32/33 54 52 50 47

Articles & Editorials Community Pages Kids Page What’s On & Local Events Pages Crossword Book Review Useful Telephone Numbers Gardening by Pippa Greenwood Recipe Baking Surbiton Food Festival Ignition Dance Festival Surbiton Arts Group Exhibition Decca Memorabilia New Life for Old Shoes

Want To Advertise Your Business?

Just because there is already an advert for a similar one, please do not think we will not take your advert!

There are so many businesses, trades and services that are not represented in

A Berrylands Companion From as little as £42.50 a month your advert can feature here for a year!

An email with your artwork will ensure it is featured.

So What is Stopping You? Call Now!

Contact Karen: tel: 020 8274 0096 email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

Magazine printed by Warwick Printing, Warwickshire

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

63

s 11 grass court

Great Clubhouse

Top Class Coaching

time for tennis!

Whatever the weather there’s always something going on at surbiton racket & fitness Club. facilities include: • 6 all weather, 3 artificial clay and 11 grass tennis courts • 4 heated / air conditioned squash courts f • “Life Fitness” gym and studio classirst Book y tennis!

• A comprehensive coaching programme for o the Aeg ur tickets to on S tennis and squash for all ages: Junior - Senior Trophy urbiton now!

• Personal training in the gym • Bar and a great social event calendar • A club for all the family Please see our website

Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club, Berrylands, Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8JT T: 020 8399 1594 | E: info@surbiton.org | www.surbiton.org

64