A Berrylands Companion

A Berrylands Companion

Month: May 2023 Issue No: 178 Independent monthly community news and business directory for KT5 & KT6

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

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Hello Readers,

W

e are finally ready for the Coronation of King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort. Flags and buntings will be out, the bells will peal and everyone will be planning their street parties. It would be lovely to see some of the photos that will be taken, so send them in for possible inclusion in the next edition.

to be able to provide some feedback soon and possibly include some of the suggestions.

If you are planning to go to a street party, perhaps the recipe on page 26 might be a worthy treat to take along!

Thank you!!!

Recently, I advertised for local people to apply to help deliver the magazine, possibly in a few months’ time. There have been some applicants, but looking at where they live, there might not be an even cover of deliverers yet. If anyone else is interested in helping to deliver A Berrylands Companion, whilst exercising and get paid, then let me know!

I have been publishing A Berrylands Companion magazine since 2005 and at times it does feel quite lonely, as I work alone. The last two editions included a readers’ survey, and I have to thank those readers that did complete the form and submit it. The results are quite interesting. I hope

What has been lovely to see, people have responded by saying how much A Berrylands Companion is proving to be a very useful magazine.

I hope that how ever you celebrate the coronation, you have a lovely time.

Best wishes,

Karen Front cover photo: From The Royal Family Website hrhcrophomepage

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 5002 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 08457 484 950 0870 608 2608 0844 335 1802 0844 335 1801

Emergencies/Utilities: Gas Emergency 0800 111 999 Electricity Emergency 0800 783 8866 Water Emergency 0845 920 0800 BT Fault Line 0800 800 151 Virgin Media 0845 142 0000 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Kingston Hospital 020 8546 7711 Childline 0800 1111 Samaritans 116 123 Age Concern 0800 00 99 66 Kingston Relate www.relatekh.org 020 8549 3318 Domestic Violence Helpline 020 8547 3202 www.victimsupport.org.uk Surbiton Safer Neighbourhood 020 8721 2518 Team based at YMCA

A Berrylands Companion

18 Kingsdowne Road, Surbiton, KT6 6JZ 020 8274 0096 karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk Please mention A Berrylands Companion when responding to adverts

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To mark the King’s coronation, we round up some revealing royal reads.

Spare – Prince Harry It will go down in history as the bombshell book that rocked the British royal family – as well as becoming the fastest-selling non-fiction book ever, selling more than 400,000 copies across hardback, ebook and audio formats on its first day of publication. It’s a no-holds barred memoir in which the Duke of Sussex makes a number of revelations about his own life, as well as his relationship with his father, his brother and other senior members of ‘the firm’. Royalist or not, read it and decide for yourself.

King Charles – The Man, the Monarch and the Future of Britain An exhaustive biography of our new monarch by Robert Jobson, dubbed “the godfather of royal reporting”, who has been at the forefront of royal reporting for well over 25 years. He received unprecedented cooperation from Clarence House, what was the Prince’s office, in writing this illuminating biography. Revelations include the truth about his deeply loving but occasionally volatile relationship with Camilla, now Queen Consort. The result is an intriguing new portrait of a man who has at last become king.

Behind the Crown – Arthur Edwards A collection of photographs capturing the modern British monarchy as never seen before, taken by the royal photographer for The Sun, who has covered them for nearly half a century and is the man behind the most iconic photographs of the most famous family in the world.

With commensurate skill and unprecedented access, he has captured the candid moments when protocol is put aside, revealing the true personalities behind the Crown.

The Duchess of Cambridge – Bethan Holt Thrust into the global spotlight on her engagement to Prince William, Kate Middleton chose to wear a sapphire-blue wrap dress by London-based label Issa, which promptly sold out. It was the first step in Kate becoming the modern royal style icon she is today. This is a highly illustrated journey through a decade of her style evolution.

Queen Elizabeth – Gyles Brandreth A personal account of the life and character of Britain’s longest-reigning monarch by someone who met her, talked with her and kept a record of those conversations. Gyles Brandreth knew the Queen and her husband well, and knows the new King and Queen Consort. Told with authority, a refreshing dose of humour and moving honesty from a totally unique viewpoint, he writes movingly about the Queen’s deteriorating health. “The truth is that Her Majesty always knew that her remaining time was limited.

She accepted this with all the good grace you’d expect.”

The Crown Jewels, The Official Illustrated History – Anna Keay The Tower of London has over two million visitors a year, with the Crown Jewels as its centrepiece. This sumptuous and highly readable publication tells the story of the most famous jewellery collection in the world, along with spectacular photographs with stunning details. A gem of a read for anyone interested in British history and monarchy.

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A Berrylands Based Building Company We're an in house team of local builders based in Berrylands specialising in all aspects of building including extensions and refurbishments. We have a portfolio of projects stretching across our 10 years of trading. From Landscaping to Luxury Bathroom installations, our team of local trades is here to assist with any project you have planned for 2023 To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Thousands of teenagers missing out on Child Trust Fund cash HMRC is urging young people to check if they have a surprise savings pot in the shape of a Child Trust Fund (CTF), the government savings scheme for children

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he average value of a CTF account was £1,500 in 2020 and although this is not the minimum or maximum amount in each account, this is a sizeable contribution to any teenager’s savings.

CTF – or some parents or guardians may have forgotten who they set the account up with. To help them find their accounts, HMRC has created a simple online tool.

It is now one year since the first account holders started turning 18 and around 55,000 CTFs mature every month. This means their owners can withdraw funds or transfer savings into an adult ISA. Hundreds of thousands of accounts have been claimed so far, but many have not.

Any young people unsure about whether or not they have a CTF should first ask a parent or guardian if they remember setting one up. Once they know who their provider is, they should contact them directly – and either request to withdraw the money or transfer the funds into an adult ISA or other savings account.

CTFs were set up for all children born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011 with a live child benefit claim. Parents or guardians set up these accounts with child trust fund providers – usually banks, building societies or investment managers – using vouchers provided by the government. If an account was not opened by the child’s parent, HMRC set one up on the child’s behalf.

Between 2002 and early 2011, about six million CTFs were opened by parents or guardians, with a further million set up by HMRC. Economic secretary to the Treasury, John Glen, said: ‘It’s fantastic that so many young people have been able to access the money saved for them in Child Trust Funds but we want to make sure that nobody misses out on the chance to invest in their future.

‘If you’re unsure if you have an account or where it may be, it’s easy to get help from HMRC to track down your provider online.’

Some young people may not know they have a

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To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

For those who cannot access the tool, HMRC will provide alternative, non-digital routes to finding a CTF provider upon request. HMRC will send details of the provider by post within three weeks of receiving their request.

Where there is no person with parental responsibility available to manage the CTF, the account is managed on the child’s behalf by a charity, the Share Foundation.

The accounts were set up to encourage positive financial habits and a saving culture among the young account holders. HMRC is working with the Money and Pension Service (MaPS) and the CTF providers to continue to provide financial education to the beneficiaries.

At 16 years, a child can choose to operate their CTF account or have their parent or guardian continue to look after it, but they cannot withdraw the funds. At 18 years of age, the CTF account matures and the child is able to withdraw money from the fund or move it to a different savings account.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

Taxation advice and guidance to local businesses Taxation advice and sole traders and guidance for more than to businesses 15local years. and sole traders for more than 25 years.

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Contact Baker ContactMark Mark Baker 020 0203044 3044 2747 2747 07909 07909703463 703463

Email: markbaker@mbaccountancy.co.uk markbaker@mbaccountancy.co.uk Email:

B I G B A N D M W U E S S I F L A M E N C O C V I A Y E I C E G S T R H A N M L C E I X N P I L S W D B L N O D I U W N D S W I A I A E R C O A D N A E E L B D H O A L L I T R N R L A G I C N U T A N G O Y E K O P K O A Z N O E P F P C T H S L C I T S U O C A O H O C S I D F N L T H C R I P O L K A K K B E A A I C A B A R E T R J A Z Z

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You have several choices regarding taking money out of your workplace or personal pension. This includes taking cash as a lump sum or drawing a regular income. This latter option, known as income drawdown or pension drawdown, brings more flexibility but also more risk.

PENSION DRAWDOWN Most people will be in a ‘defined contribution’ scheme (we are not covering ‘defined benefit’ schemes – also known as ‘final salary’ – in our tips here). This takes the money you and your employers put into the scheme and invests it, producing a pot of money called a pension fund.

You choose how to use this fund.

ANNUITY The traditional approach is to use your pension fund to buy an annuity. An annuity will pay you a fixed sum until you die, with that amount dependent on your health and age. The cost of annuities and payments from them haven’t offered best value in recent years, sparking an interest in other options.

DRAWDOWN That’s where pension drawdown comes in. Put simply, you take some of the money out of the pension fund and leave the remainder of the fund invested to (all being well) continue growing.

You can take up to 25% of your pension fund as a lump-sum payment, which will be tax-free.

Alternatively, you can take a regular income from the fund, with 25% of each payment tax-free and the rest counting towards your taxable income.

The main advantages of pension drawdown are increased flexibility and a potentially bigger income than you’d get from an annuity. The main disadvantage is that your pension fund could run dry before you die, leaving you reliant on just the state pension.

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Remember also that any money left in the pension fund remains subject to investment performance. Ideally it will grow, perhaps even by enough to cover the money you take out, but it’s possible the fund will decline.

DRAWDOWN CONDITIONS You can use pension drawdown from age 55 (rising to 57 in 2028), even if you are still working and still contributing to the pension. You’ll need to watch out for rules against ‘pension recycling’, which is intentionally taking money out of a pension fund and then putting it back in to try to get tax benefits.

Once you take any money out of a pension fund, your future tax-free contributions (including those from your employer) are capped at £4,000 a year. If you pay in any more than this, the money will count as part of your taxable income.

Not all pension providers offer a pension drawdown option, but you can switch your pension fund to one that does. Most providers who offer pension drawdown can offer advice and managed options to help you achieve specific goals. Remember that while you still have a pension fund open, you’ll need to pay management charges.

TAKE ADVICE You should always take expert advice before making any pension decisions. One good option is a free Pension Wise review from MoneyHelper, an independent government-backed organisation.

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Serenity Surbiton Hair & Beauty, 414 Ewell Rd, Surbiton KT6 7hf

Viv Martin Hair Now at Serenity Surbiton Hair and Beauty

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

For Appointments Please Call: 07341 622421 Thursday, Friday, Saturday

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Surbiton school offers Art History course for the local community

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urbiton High School is offering a short seven-week Art History course as part of their Community Outreach Programme for a £65 donation.

A-level (thankfully, without the essays).

Surbiton High School invite anyone interested in the local community and the course is open to everyone aged 15 and over.

Community Classrooms is an exciting and dynamic way to extend learning opportunities for young people, parents and local residents. They can take the form of adult evening courses, longer courses with qualification outcomes or weekend workshops for students of all ages. Community Classrooms is a notfor-profit initiative and any proceeds go towards local community projects.

Lissie Matts achieved her MA at the University of Edinburgh and has now been teaching History of Art A-level for nine years, at three different schools.

The next Art History course, led

by Lissie Matts, MA University of Edinburgh starts on Wednesday 26 April. The seven-week course is every Wednesday from 6.45 pm - 8.15 pm at Surbiton High School in the Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames, Greater London. The Art History course is a whistle- stop whizz through one recurring theme of art history, Nature.

Designed for both novices and the slightly more experienced, the course explores the dramatic landscapes of Turner, the politically fraught 'Sunflower Seeds' by Ai Weiwei and the twisting form of the infamous 'Whistlejacket', hanging in London's National Gallery.

She fell in love with the subject on a trip to Florence, aged 16, where having seen Michelangelo's David, she promptly decided she wanted to spend her life immersed in the art historical world and all things it involved. She has a rather niche fascination with the Northern Renaissance and loves nothing more than convincing someone to change their opinion on how they feel about a work of art.

This course is a not-for-profit initiative and all proceeds go towards local community projects. Our next course is focused on Art History - Nature in Art and Architecture and is running over a seven-week period. The course is open to anyone aged 15 and over.

For more information and to register for the course please visit: https://www.trybooking.com/uk/events/ landing?eid=32720&

Choosing the 'juiciest' of artworks and buildings, this course provides a little insight into other worlds and cultures, including elements of the Art History

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TENNIS CLUB

Saturday 3 June 3 - 5pm Tea and cake served at 4pm

EVERYONE IS WELCOME, whether you play already, you’ve played before but are a bit rusty, or whether you’d just like to have a go!

Rackets and balls will be provided and all we ask is that you wear appropriate footwear for the tennis courts.

We are situated in Berrylands, and the entrance is between nos. 11 and 13 Manor Drive. Membership is open to all, and our subs are very reasonable.

More information at www.surbitonmethodisttennis.org

Codeword

Each letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number shown in the grid, with the first few entered for you.

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To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word moving from top to bottom.

TREE

  

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

 

ROOT 12

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

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In the 1600s, tulip bulbs were considered a luxury item and, in Holland, were more valuable than gold.

Count up the petals on each of the flowers below, and then add them all together.

How many petals are there in total?

you get What do ss a bike if you cro wer? and a flo etals p le c y ic B

What did the lady that dislikes flowers and children say?

I don’t like orchids or kids

I accidentally rong an pl ted the w rden ga y m flowers in s Oopsie daisie

LILY ROSE DAISY PANSY POPPY VIOLA FUSCHIA HEATHER PETUNIA BLUEBELL SWEETPEA CARNATION CORNFLOWER SNAPDRAGON

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Kibble vs fresh

It’s a challenging time trying to keep the family bills under control, but your pet’s food is also seeing the effects of inflation.

Bags of dry food are typically more expensive at the point of purchase, because you are buying in bulk, but the overall cost will be lower so it’s worth investigating.

Drop the brand We often believe our pets are fussy about the brands they will and won’t eat. But when times are tight, you are likely to have to persist with ownbrand versions and anything you can pick up from cheaper supermarkets.

Subscription services There are a number of companies offering subscription services. These are great for no waste and it’s worth noting they’ll often have sign-up offers. That way you can see if your pet likes what’s delivered to you and save on the cost for a few weeks too.

Any food labelled as ‘complete’ gives a nutritionally balanced diet for the species it is made for.

‘Complementary’ food will only provide part of the nutrients your pet needs to be healthy.

Food banks Nobody wants to do it, but if times really are tight, needs must. Both the RSPCA and Blue Cross have details of their food banks on their websites.

One option could be to mix a cheaper food with the usual product you buy, to ease the transition.

Aspen Veterinary Surgery

HOME WANTED!

Your pet matters to us

Nelly

Nelly is a pretty, 7-month-old female tabby & white cat.

She is very confident, enjoys playing with toys, and is happy to sit near or on your lap when she wants to; she likes to be around people.

She is being rehomed because she doesn't get on with the other cat in her current home, and would be happier in a home with adults and no other pets.

THIS IS A DIRECT HOME PROCESS. For more information, please contact: adoption@epsom.cats.org.uk .

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)

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Ninety miles or so south of Bangkok, Thailand’s oldest resort is an elegant getaway loved by the Thais and discerning visitors. Once a humble fishing village, it became a royal residence in the 1920s when Rama VII built his summer palace on a quiet corner of the Sunrise Coast. He called it ‘far from worries’ and as you relax on the soft tingling sands, that’s exactly how it feels.

It’s only a two-hour drive from the capital but if ‘slow travel’ is your choice, hop aboard the train snaking its way through rolling countryside, peeping at scenes of daily life and finally alighting by the Royal Waiting Room, which stands pagoda-like, plum-red and cream, in Hua Hin station.

New hotels, fine cuisine, golf, spa and all the pleasures of the beach, it is boom time in Hua Hin, but if you venture out of town you could sail to the Marine National Park or head for Kaeng Krachan, also a National Park home to tropical birds and other wildlife. Equally enticing is Monsoon Valley where you can ride elephants through the vineyards, taste awardwinning wines and enjoy a delicious lunch in a cool winery, looking across the vines to the lush green hills rising all around. Yet a leisurely pace still lingers in the coastal resort, punctuated by tinkling bells and rattling tuk-tuks. Spirit houses shelter under the trees, draped in orchid garlands, auspicious offerings are laid on the doorsteps and now and then fragrant incense

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drifts through the air. There are myriad temples glistening with colour and exquisite carvings under lofty pagoda roofs. You may have to share the hilltop Khao Takiab with chattering monkeys, but at the end of the beach the giant Buddha looking out to sea radiates peace. Then look out for the wooden cottages in the lanes and the little dens offering lacquerware and painted china, visit the tailors, marvel at endless rolls of shimmering silk or hand-printed cotton and wander through tropical gardens filled with bird song and the sweet scents of jasmine and frangipani.

Sunsets are magical in Hua Hin, a fiery orb dipping behind the swaying palms, sending ripples of golden light across the sea – then it’s time for the evening stroll followed by dinner al fresco. Seafood is top of the list, tiger prawns, crab, crayfish, succulent catch of the day and cosmopolitan or traditional Thai – you will be spoilt for choice. Meanwhile, on Dechanuchit Road, the night market offers fast food local-style as white-hatted chefs chop and stir and clouds of smoke rise from the woks. Lights twinkle under the trees and crowds browse around the stalls brimming with sarongs and scarves, T-shirts, ethnic jewellery, seashell mobiles and flower garlands, exotic fruit and luminous sweets.

Meanwhile, folded parasols stand silhouetted in the moonlight and, on the deserted beach lapped by the waves, the royal resort drifts into a peaceful night ‘far from worries’. By Solange Hando

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Lewis-Dick Oct 19 Proof 1.indd 9

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23/09/2019 11:52:55

By Caroline Knight

The changing face of gardens The average garden has changed significantly over the last 50 years. In a physical sense, it has become smaller but, in more general terms, expectations have grown. In a small garden every square metre matters. Today’s contemporary garden might have an outside kitchen and possibly a retractable roof to serve as sunshade or umbrella and a moving water feature provides a soundscape to accompany the outdoor dining experience.

Alongside the shrinking space, our need for privacy has expanded. The addition of pleached trees – often called a ‘hedge on stilts’ – has become commonplace. They allow taller boundaries that blur the fence line, thus bringing seclusion without harsh enclosure.

Look at the plants Gardens follow fashion and plant selection tells you a huge amount about the history and evolution of a garden. Before the 1980s, a garden border would be filled with perennial planting that might include asters, campanula, delphiniums, hardy geraniums, helianthus, geums, lupins, peonies, pulmonaria, salvias and veronica. These provided spring and summer colour but would die down for winter. Newer or updated borders might incorporate a number of Modern materials include Corten weathering steel at Chelsea Flower Show

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shrubs to give year-round shape. There could be some structural forms in terms of sculpture or topiary. There might be evergreen giant cones and maybe some roses, rather than an entire bed dedicated to perennials.

The palette of plants available to us has extended dramatically over the decades.

Ornamental grasses and ‘new perennial’ planting, including naturalistic swathes of perennials in subdued colours, are now likely to replace some of the more traditional herbaceous plants. This style of planting has ecology at its heart and the layers of plants tend to be interwoven to form patterns that might be found in the natural world.

A contemporary border will place even more emphasis on forms, shapes and colour that last for longer. Some borders now feature a restricted palette of plant varieties, perhaps chosen for the foliage colour or shape. For example, an entire bed filled with ‘strappy’ shaped leaves in plain green, a shady bed filled with just one variety of fern, or foliage that contrasts such as burgundy and yellow. The gardener will be ruthless when interlopers try to seed themselves amongst such a carefully designed setting.

Making a comeback Island beds filled with small conifers and perhaps a few rocks were a feature of the 1970s.

Over the years we have tended to shun the idea of including these within a planting scheme, perhaps because some of the dwarf conifers grow larger than anticipated. They are beginning to make a comeback, however as we learn to embrace their charm. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show tends to set the trend and over the last few years these old favourite plants have been featured and applauded, along with hydrangeas, rhododendrons, dahlias and chrysanthemums.

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Summer Tree Care

A

s the warmth of summer arrives, a few dry days can drop the soil moisture levels affecting our shallow rooted and newly planted trees that have yet to develop a stable deep root system. If you have access to organic matter such as garden compost and well rotted manure then a good mulch around the base of your trees reduces water loss by evaporation by as much as 70%!. Do not mulch around the trunk base directly and extend out at least 2m if possible. If you decide to water the trees and shrubs do this in the evening when a greater proportion of the water can be absorbed by the roots.

Summer can be problematic for certain diseases such as rust, mildew and blackspot on trees and shrubs. The best advice is to rake up and burn the infected leaves.

Do not put them on your compost heap as this allows the Summer treecare spores to spread later in the year when you do a compost mulch. Trees are more prone to pests and diseases if

R.J. Trees

All surgeons must be qualified and fully insured as well as working to agreed BS standards.

We often advise tree surgery to be done in phases as a cycle, by this I mean that if tree works are spread over a number of years your garden trees are always evolving in a succession. Remember that if one tree undergoes surgery it will create opportunities for other trees to develop and flourish.

JUST LAWNS & GARDENS they lack enough water and nutrients, so generally it is best to keep all your trees and shrubs well composted and watered to minimise impacts.

In terms of tree surgery in the summer different trees can be pruned and shaped at different times of the year. Apple trees for example can be pruned back in the summer to encourage robust growth and controls canopy development in the future whereas winter pruning generates new potential growth points. It is always best to prune within the tolerance levels of the species involved. Surgery should be done carefully to avoid creating problems of dieback or disease exploiting the pruning cuts. Arborists should give you the appropriate professional advice.

A variety of surgery options are available for your trees; it is never appropriate to just “lop” a tree. Proper treeworks range from maintaining the spread of the tree but thinning the canopy (crown thin); removing the lower limbs to improve garden light conditions (crown lift) to reducing the overall crown size done as percentages from 5 to 30% (crown reduction) or a hard prune called pollarding.

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As Prince of Wales, Charles has been preparing for this moment for most of his life, under the tutelage and guidance of his late mother, Elizabeth II. He will be recorded in history as the longest ever heir apparent, and the oldest to ever accede to the British throne at the age of 73.

Charles Philip Arthur George was born on 14th November 1948, during the reign of his grandfather King George VI. After the death of the King in 1952, his mother Elizabeth became Queen and Charles became heir to the throne at just three years old.

Charles was educated at Cheam and Gordonstoun schools, in the footsteps of his father Philip. He was the first heir apparent to attend school rather than receive private tuition. His time at Gordonstoun was hard, he referred to it as “Colditz in kilts” but later reflected, “…it taught me to accept challenges and take the initiative.” He left in 1967 with six O levels and two A levels in French and History.

King Charles III

Charles went on to read Archaeology and Anthropology at Trinity College, Cambridge. He switched to study History and finally gained a 2:2 Bachelor of Arts in 1970.

Numerous extracurricular activities included playing cello in the orchestra, attending an archaeological dig in Jersey and playing polo against Oxford.

After gaining the title ‘Prince of Wales’ his formal investiture took place in 1969 at the age of twenty-one.

Charles spent a term at the University College of Wales, in Aberystwyth, in order to study the Welsh language and history. In 1975, Cambridge University awarded him a Master of Arts, this was an academic rank more than a postgraduate qualification.

After university, Charles joined the Royal Air Force and trained as a jet pilot. In the Royal Navy he qualified as a helicopter pilot and served on the naval destroyer HMS Norfolk. At the end of his naval career, he took command of the ton-class minesweeper HMS Bronington. Charles also endured parachute training in 1978, after he was appointed Colonel-in-Chief of the Parachute Regiment.

The Prince’s Trust was founded in 1976 with the £7,500 severance pay from the Navy. Since then, Charles has established sixteen more charities which raise over £100 million annually. As Prince of Wales, he has been an active patron, president or member of over four hundred charitable trusts and foundations.

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In the 1970s, Prince Charles was considered one of the most eligible bachelors in the world, but in 1981 he married Lady Diana Spencer. They had two sons, William born in 1982 and Harry in 1984. The couple divorced in 1996, and Diana was tragically killed in a car accident a year later.

I T S / Shutterstock.com

In 2005, Charles married Camilla Parker-Bowles. The official title of Princess of Wales was never publicly used, due to its close association with Charles’ first wife.

Instead, Camilla used the title Duchess of Cornwall.

The Duchy of Cornwall Estate was established by Edward III in 1337 for the heir to the throne. As Duke of Cornwall, the 53,000 hectare estate provides a private income to fund public, charitable and private activities, effectively making the heir financially independent.

The estate generates around £24 million a year, and since 1993, the Prince of Wales has voluntarily paid tax on his income from the Duchy. As Duke of Cornwall, Charles has used this enterprise to demonstrate his personal passions and implemented organic farming, receiving numerous awards for his efforts. The estate passed to Prince William when he inherited the title last year. sdfharkin / Shutterstock.com

Poundbury is a significant part of the Duchy’s Estate.

This experimental community is on the edge of Dorchester in Dorset, created as an urban extension of the town and designed to incorporate traditional architecture and affordable housing. This was a major project for Charles, demonstrating his passion for architecture and his understanding of the complex needs of a community. Construction began in 1993 and will be completed by 2026. Poundbury is currently home to approximately 3,800 people and provides jobs for 2,300 in a range of over 200 businesses. Many of the founding principles have been incorporated into the Government’s Planning Policy.

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On 8th September 2022, Queen Elizabeth passed away peacefully and King Charles III became the new monarch. Tradition demands a coronation, and plans have been laid out for many years, under the codename ‘Operation Golden Orb’. The King will host a smaller and less expensive event than previous coronations.

It’s thought that the service will include different faiths and communities and reflect the change in British society since the last coronation in 1953. The Church of England ceremony will be broadcast internationally, and requires an oath and anointment, delivery of the orb and enthronement. The coronation of King Charles III and Camilla takes place in Westminster Abbey on 6th May 2023. Long live the King!

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If you often find yourself feeling sluggish and lethargic, even after a full night’s sleep, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy actions you can take to boost your energy levels that don’t just involve getting more sleep – although that’s a good place to start. If you’re tired of feeling tired, try out these five tips for boosting your energy levels.

Reduce stress Stress uses up a lot of mental energy and has also been linked to other mental and physical health problems.

While in many cases it’s not possible to remove certain stressors from our lives altogether, there are things that can help. Take some time for yourself, lose yourself in a book or go for a walk outside. You could also try mindfulness or meditation techniques, which are often used to reduce feelings of anxiety.

Move more It might sound counterintuitive, but research has proven that regular exercise can fight feelings of fatigue, increase energy levels and help you sleep better at night. To top it off, physical activity also triggers the release of ‘happy hormones’ dopamine and serotonin, boosting your mood long after you’ve finished your workout.

If you’re not keen on exercise, start small by going for a walk on your lunch break, taking the stairs instead of the lift, or walking to work or school instead of driving.

Stay hydrated Water can have a huge effect on your body’s brain function, mood, energy levels – and more – so it’s important to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Particularly as you age, the sensation of thirst decreases.

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Eat healthily We are what we eat, so an unhealthy diet will always be a huge contributing factor to feelings of fatigue.

When you feel tired, it’s tempting to fill up on sugary foods for a much-needed energy boost.

However, although sweet snacks can combat feelings of tiredness in the short term, the effects wear off quickly and can actually leave you feeling more tired than before.

This is because high-sugar foods cause a sharp spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash as the body releases a large amount of insulin to transport sugar from the bloodstream to the cells. If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth without the sugar crash, try snacking on fresh berries and ‘no sugar’ drinks.

Caffeine is another culprit. While it increases alertness in the short term, it can also cause sleep problems when consumed in large amounts. Cut out caffeine completely for a month to see if you feel more energised without it.

Supplement your diet No matter how nutritious your diet may be, there’s a chance that your body could still be lacking certain nutrients. For example, being deficient in vitamin B12, a vitamin only found in animal products, has been known to cause feelings of fatigue.

If you’re unsure which supplements you need, talk to your doctor to find out if you’re deficient in any key nutrients.

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This light walnut sponge filled with strawberries and cream is often served on the Continent as a pudding, but it also makes the perfect afternoon teatime treat.

Serves 8 Preparation time 30 minutes Cooking time 40-45 minutes Ingredients • 3 large eggs • 100g caster sugar • 75g self-raising flour • 50g walnuts, finely chopped For the filling and topping • 300ml pouring double cream, whipped • 450g strawberries, roughly chopped, plus extra kept whole for decoration

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1. Preheat the oven to 180°C / fan 160°C / gas mark 4. Grease a deep 20cm round cake tin, then line the base with non-stick baking paper.

2. Measure the eggs and sugar into a large bowl and beat until the mixture is thick and mousse-like, and leaves a trail when the whisk is lifted out of the mixture. Sift the flour onto the mixture and lightly fold in along with the chopped walnuts.

3. Turn into the prepared cake tin and level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until well-risen and the top of the cake springs back when lightly pressed with a finger. Leave to cool in the tin for a few minutes then turn out, peel off the baking paper and finish cooling on a wire rack.

4. When cold, cut the cake into three horizontally using a serrated or bread knife, then sandwich the slices together with a good amount of whipped cream and strawberries. Spread the remaining cream over the top and the sides of the cake, and decorate with the reserved strawberries heaped on top.

TIP For a lighter filling, you can use full-fat crème fraiche.

Extracted from Mary Berry’s Baking Bible by Mary Berry (BBC Books, £28), a definitive baking collection, featuring 250 retested and updated foolproof classics plus 20 brand new recipes, along with Dame Mary’s tips. Photography by Ant Duncan.

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27

Weddings have changed drastically over the last few decades, with each year bringing with it a brand new set of trends. In the past, almost every aspect of a wedding would be rooted in age-old traditions; nowadays, however, more and more couples are tying the knot in a way that reflects their individual taste and personality.

With the wedding season now upon us, let’s take a look at how wedding traditions have changed over the last few decades.

The proposal Traditionally, the etiquette for a marriage proposal was to ask for the bride’s father’s permission before tying the knot. Today, many couples forgo this prenuptial step due to its outdated notion that the bride is a possession to be ‘handed over’ from one guardian to the next.

The cost Weddings have always been lavish affairs, but since the industry’s exponential boom over the last decade, prices have only been rising.

Today, the average cost of a wedding in the UK is £18,400, but it’s not uncommon for couples to spend over £30,000 on their special day. It used to be customary for the bride’s parents to pay, but nowadays it’s not unusual for the couple themselves to cover the costs

The wedding dress In the 70s and 80s, the trendiest wedding dresses featured high necklines, puffy sleeves and a long train to match. In the twenty-first century, it’s a completely different story.

Strapless, backless, lace, mermaid-style, mid-length and everything in between – the options are endless.

Who says you have to wear one dress, anyway?

Many brides now don a more traditional gown for the ceremony before changing into a ‘party’ dress for the reception.

The ceremony Traditionally, it was standard practice for the father to accompany the bride down the aisle before ‘giving her away’. Today, however, more and more brides choose to make the journey on their own. Wedding vows have changed too; most couples ditch the promise to ‘obey’ their new spouse, and even write their own personalised vows.

The wedding cake Tiered wedding cakes have always been a staple at wedding breakfasts. Nowadays, anything from cupcakes and doughnuts to ice cream are used as alternatives to the main event.

The grand exit Showering newlyweds in rice after their big day was a tradition for centuries, signalling fertility and good fortune. Instead of the grain, couples now encourage guests to use everything from confetti and rose petals to glitter and sparklers to mark their transition into married life.

The honeymoon Honeymoons date back to the early nineteenth century, but they’ve changed quite a bit over the last few decades. As international travel became easier, many couples began splashing out on exotic locations in the late 60s and early 70s, but the all-inclusive honeymoon package didn’t take off until the 90s.

Now, thanks to the boom of social media, honeymoons are bigger and bolder than ever. Lots of couples plan a ‘mini-moon’ straight after the wedding, and a longer trip later in the year, giving them time to save for their ‘honeymoon of a lifetime’.

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Stuart Leverett Office: 020 8390 0617 Mobile: 07710 123 628 Email:contact@leverettelectrical.co.uk

• • • • •

S O M E

www.leverettelectrical.co.uk

QP advert 1 email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

Q

w

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By Katherine Sorrell

Looking for a refresh in your bedroom?

Try our ideas to create a room that perfectly reflects your individual style.

If your bedroom is uncoordinated, dated or lacklustre, now’s the time to make some changes that make all the difference, helping create your own relaxing and cosy retreat.

Look at the biggest surfaces The largest areas in any room are the walls, the floor and the ceiling. In a small bedroom there may not be much visible floor area but there will be space for a small bedside rug or two, or you might consider changing the carpet or removing it entirely, then stripping or painting the floorboards. If you do, add a large, thick rug for a feeling of warmth and cosiness. Walls may be a neutral backdrop but think about adding pattern or texture. Bold paint colours combined with eyecatching wallpaper are very on-trend right now.

On the ceiling, you could continue the wall colour (even the wallpaper), choose a contrasting shade or even opt for a mosaic or gold leaf.

Ensure the lighting is right A good lighting scheme should include functional, decorative and ambient lighting, with a variety of types of light sources, from ceiling pendants or inset spotlights to floor and wall fittings, at differing heights and spread out around the room. Consider replacing any outdated shades and if possible, fit a dimmer switch for ambience, and use warm white bulbs. Add bedside lamps that coordinate with other elements of the room while adding some personality and pizazz.

John Lewis’s ‘Modern’ collection for spring/summer 2023 features statement designs, inspired patterns and products that will seamlessly fit into existing schemes. johnlewis.com

B&M’s Eden Life range of home accessories embraces a gentle, relaxing mood. bmstores.co.uk

Plan suitable storage A wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling, built-in wardrobe can accommodate clothes and footwear, spare linens, jewellery, make-up and so on, but if that’s not an option choose the largest freestanding wardrobe you can. Make it interesting by painting it a gorgeous colour and swapping the knobs or handles, and consider decorating the inside with a dramatic colour or bold wallpaper.

Make your bed beautiful Transform your bedroom with sumptuous bed linens that are pleasing to the touch and gorgeous to look at. Choose the best you can afford – they will feel nicer on your skin and will wash and wear well for years. For cotton bedding, look for a thread count of at least 200. Pintucks, piping or a scalloped edge add subtle interest to all-white bedding, though for more colour opt for patterns, whether ditzy florals, strong stripes or modern geometrics. Add a throw, blanket, eiderdown or quilt – or several – for warmth, comfort and an appealing, ‘layered’ look.

Complete the look If you love personal, quirky elements then it’s time to consider the final touches. Hang artwork on the walls, perhaps in coordinating frames for unity, and add some houseplants in attractive pots. A shelf or two, carefully arranged with books, vases and other ornaments, makes a strong statement and use a scented candle or a diffuser for a delightful fragrance.

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* Extensions * Conversions * Refurbishments Local builders with over 30 years experience Many local customers with excellent references, viewings by appointment

Check out our Check a Trade ratings.

Tel:Mob: 07941 374 324 / 07853 972 348 Check out our new website: www.berrylandsbuilders.co.uk

William Stallion

150 Elmbridge Avenue, Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 9HF

*Alterations & Additions *New Installations *Maintenance *Rewires *Testing & Inspection EICR/PIR *NIC/EIC Registered,insured,certified

Tel: 07828 796 702

Painting and Decorating Roofing and Guttering Plastering and Tiling Household Maintenance Loft conversions and extensions Marcus & Sarah Baines 020 8390 7549 07702 603 885 berrylands-property@blueyonder.co.uk

willstallion@googlemail.com

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DOMESTIC INSTALLER

APPROVED CONTRACTOR

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

No obligation quotations. References available.

All work guaranteed and fully insured.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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The gadgets that’ll help you chill when the weather warms up The simplest, and usually the most affordable, kind of cooling is the humble fan – although if you opt for Dyson’s version, the Dyson Cool, the price goes up dramatically. But while Dyson’s bladeless technology is a bit more sophisticated than the traditional three-bladed fan, the effect is the same: the fan moves air around to help you feel a little cooler.

What a fan can’t do is actually reduce the temperature of the air it’s moving around. For that you need something with a cooler. The simplest version of that is an ‘air cooler’ - a fan that passes air over ice or a frozen ice block to make it colder.

It makes a bit of a difference if you’re sitting really close to it but it won’t significantly reduce the temperature of your room. For that you’ll need something more powerful: an air conditioner.

Air conditioners work like fridges: there’s a cooling element filled with refrigerant gas, and hot air is pulled into the device via built-in vents. It then circulates around the cooling element, which dramatically lowers its temperature, and the cooled air is then blown out via different vents.

If you don’t want to commit to a permanently installed air conditioner, there are plenty of portable options. They need to be ventilated, so they typically come with window adapters that enable you to push warm air out without letting any back in.

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Tower Cavaletto pedestal fan This rose-gold option from Tower looks more expensive than it actually is. £57, currys.co.uk

MeacoCool 10000CH Air Conditioner & Heater In the summer this is a powerful air conditioner and in the colder months it’s a heater too. It’s designed for rooms from 18 to 28 square metres. £389, johnlewis.com

Dyson Pure Cool Dyson’s Pure Cool fans don’t have blades, so they produce a smoother airflow instead. £349, dyson.co.uk

Challenge 5K Air Conditioner Designed for smaller rooms of up to 10 square metres, this portable air conditioner delivers 5,000 BTU of cooling power with A-class energy efficiency. £350, argos.co.uk

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SAVE

VW & AUDI GROUP

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Per hour Vs

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Book your service 0208 643 4313 volksautos.co.uk bookings@volksautos.co.uk

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info@berrylandsautocare.co.uk www.berrylandsautocare.co.uk To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

167 Surbiton Hill Park, Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8EJ email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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MOVIE MANSIONS:

Picture by Nicole Hanusek CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

This iconic corner Victorian was the exterior setting for the 1993 classic film, Mrs Doubtfire. Robin Williams’ character – Daniel Hillard – pretended to be a housekeeper and nanny so he could spend time with his children, after separating from their mother, played by Sally Williams.

who specialised in transforming the faces of transgender men and women to better match their gender identity.

The property was sold for $4.15 million in 2016, meaning that pictures of the interior were on the agent’s website. However the interior shots in the movie weren’t taken at the property but rather at a converted warehouse in the Bay Area. The exact address of 2640 Steiner Street became a tourist attraction for some time after the film’s release. Following Williams’ death on 11 August 2014, the house became an impromptu memorial.

As is often the

By POV - movieposterdb.com, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=18560616 case, the critics were rather ambivalent about the Mrs Doubtfire film, describing it as excessively broad and sentimental. The viewers, on the other hand, loved it, and the film grossed $441.3 million on a $25 million budget, making it the secondhighest-grossing film of 1993.

Ironically, the vendor of the house in 2016 was a Dr Douglas K. Ousterhout, considered among the USA’s top craniofacial surgeons,

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It won the Academy Award for Best Makeup and the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Robin Williams was awarded the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

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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)

MEGA DEALS!

(Ewell)

TYRE SPECIALISTS

MASSIVE DISCOUNTS l High Performance Cars

l All leading makes of tyres

l Light Commercials

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l Wheel alignment and balancing

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l While U Wait service

www.k-p-tyres.co.uk Email: enquiries@k-p-tyres.co.uk 169 CHESSINGTON ROAD, WEST EWELL, EPSOM, SURREY

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Women’s Night Safety Charter launched at South West London Safer Streets Neighbourhood

A

night safety charter to support women across South West London to feel safer when out in the evening has been launched at the South West London Safer Streets conference, hosted

by Kingston Council.

Kingston is one of the safest boroughs in London and the council is committed to working with partners to improve safety, and perceptions of safety, for all residents. Businesses across Kingston and around South West London are being encouraged to sign up to the charter, which sets out a number of simple pledges. These include an organisation demonstrating it takes women’s safety at night seriously, trains staff appropriately, encourages reporting by victims or bystanders, and works on designing safer public and work spaces.

The Safer Streets conference, which took place on 22 March in Kingston, saw local authorities across South West London come together with the Met Police and voluntary sector organisations working on women’s safety. It builds on the joint working between Kingston, Richmond, Merton and Wandsworth councils and the Met Police South West London. Led by Kingston, the partnership was awarded £200,000 of government funding last year to continue its innovative work to make the streets safer for women and girls.

Stephan Currie, General Manager at PRYZM nightclub in Kingston said: “The South West London Night Charter is an excellent thing for both our customers and our business. Kingston is a very safe place, and we want to do all we can to reassure our female customers of that. We also want to demonstrate that we take the safety of women at night very seriously and that’s exactly what this charter enables us to do. All businesses should be signing up for this. It’s really important that a business trades on its reputation and looking after guests, developing that good reputation can only be rewarding.”

To support local businesses to deliver on their commitments under the pledge, Kingston Council has developed a Business Toolkit - a range of digital resources and access to training for night time economy venues. It has also produced a promotional video showcasing the importance of the charter and

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encouraging businesses to sign up.

The Safer Streets conference also saw the launch of a new campaign to engage men and boys and encourage them to take an active stand against the violence against women and girls in our borough.

The #StepUpSWLondon campaign aims to educate men and boys about what the violent behaviours actually are and how they can stand up to them in a safe and confident manner. The campaign will also encourage men to become active, continuous allies by signing up for the White Ribbon Promise.

Kingston Council’s Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Public Health, Cllr Sabeh Hamed said: “Kingston is one of the safest boroughs in London, with a strong track record of community safety. We are committed to making our borough even safer and our approach is rooted in partnership work, prevention and early intervention. The safety of all women and girls has always been a high priority for us. We are committed to supporting businesses to improve women’s experience of going out in the evening - by making sure they feel safe, and are safe. We are also committed to encouraging men to step up against unacceptable behaviours targeting women and girls, by fulfilling the White Ribbon Promise.”

In other community safety work, last month Kingston also joined forces with national charity Crimestoppers to support young people across the borough to understand and feel empowered to report crime. The Fearless campaign focuses on informing young people about the safe and anonymous way to report crime or suspicious activity. Fearless staff have been working across the borough to share information resources with schools and youth groups, as well as running dedicated information sessions for professionals who work with young people. You can read more at Fearless.org

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Kingston’s case for more police

by Sir Edward Davey, M.P

K

ingston remains one of London’s safest Boroughs, with crime also well below the average for England.

Yet it’s not a contradiction to argue, as I do, that we need more police. The truth is crime everywhere remains too high, including in Kingston.

time economy and drugs - a new town centre patrol team of 25 officers has been in operation since December 2021. It’s had major successes in tackling crime and working on crime prevention, with a vital focus on making the town a safer place, especially for women and girls.

Moreover, the case for more police officers should not simply be led by statistics on crimes committed.

People want crimes investigated and solved - and not just the most serious crimes. They want criminals caught. They want to feel safe and reassured in their communities.

Since that success, my police campaigns have focused more on arguing for extra community-based police across the Borough as well as supporting the police in their work against Kingston’s high frequency crimes like vehicle crimes, especially the theft of catalytic converters. Kingston police’s recent work on “marking” catalytic converters, to deter their theft, is an excellent example of how local police have responded to people’s concerns.

Perhaps more controversially, I believe the case for recruiting more police across London has been strengthened by the recent review by Baroness Casey. That review happened after a series of appalling cases of Met Police officers committing horrific crimes – from the murder of Sarah Everard

by Wayne Couzens, to the unmasking of another serving officer, David Carrick, as a serial rapist.

Burglary – a guaranteed response?

A new national anti-burglary campaign I’ve launched regrettably has an echo here in Kingston – and that’s a policy for a legal duty on police to attend every burglary.

Sir Mark Rowley, the Met Police Commissioner, is clear there will be other offending officers who he needs to sack. He rightly wants more power to do so – as he implements the Casey Review’s recommendations.

Burglary is a serious crime. Yet despite lots of warm words, too often it’s not been taken seriously enough.

Last year alone, across just 19 of England’s 39 police forces, police did not attend on over 45,000 reported burglaries.

Crucial recommendations involve reform of how the Met vets recruits and deals with complaints against officers. So as the Casey Review is implemented, we must see a more focussed effort to attract new, diverse and talented people into the Met, including people with experience in other walks of life, with the right skills to fill the worst shortages London’s police face, not least in its detective and other specialist ranks.

Given a large part of the reason for that is how overstretched the Government has left our police, the idea is for a legal duty on both the Home Secretary to provide the resources, and Police Chiefs to deliver a guaranteed police response.

Campaigning for more police in Kingston And as London’s police ranks swell, I’m determined Kingston gets our fair share. Well-focused and evidenced campaigns for more police can win through – as we showed recently for Kingston’s town centre.

After several years of arguing more police were needed there - due to a combination of daytime street robberies and shoplifting, alongside violent crime and anti-social behaviour linked to the night-

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

In Kingston, burglary like other crimes has tended to be lower than other boroughs. The number of burglaries in 2022 fell by 7% compared to 2021. Yet that still meant 680 burglaries last year. Moreover, there’s been a sharp rise in burglaries this year with over 140 reported in the first 2 months of 2023. So Kingston’s police are already focusing harder on burglary after this rise.

To help the police and to ensure everyone can feel safe in their homes, with a guaranteed police response if they are burgled, I’m convinced people want to see extra investment in Kingston’s police.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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QUIZ SOLUTIONS CROSSWORD SOLUTION

HIDATO SOLUTION

TWO M NUTE TR AL

CODEWORD SOLUTION

3 LETTERS ere ice ire per pie ree rei rep rip

4 LETTERS cere epic rice ripe peer pice pier peri

5 LETTERS creep crepe price piece

6 LETTERS recipe

WORDSEARCH ANSWER

Music is the poetry of the air.

Richter

WORDWHEEL ANSWER FORTUNE WORD LADDER ANSWER (This is one solution, there may be others) TREE ffree flee floe sloe slot soot ROOT

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CHILDREN’S PAGE The total number of petals: 80

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What’s on in May:-

National Heart Month; National Share a Story Month

Events in April: 25th: World Penguin Day 29th: International Dance Day 30th: International Jazz Day

Events in May: 1st 1-7th: 3rd:

Early May Bank Holiday Screen Free Week International Gilbert & Sullivan Day; World Laughter Day; World Asthma Day 4th: Star Wars Day: May the Fourth Be With You 6th: Coronation of King Charles III 6-13th: National Sun Awareness Week 7th: Kingston upon Thames Coronation Parade: Ancient Market Place 2.45 - 4pm, Free, Town Crier Announcement, see advert page 43.

7th: The Coronation Thanksgiving Service, 4.30pm at All Saints’ Church, Market Place, Kingston upon Thames. Free tickets and info: eventbrite. co.uk 7-20th: Surbiton Food Festival 8th: Coronation Bank Holiday Deadline for submissions for June edition of A Berrylands Companion

9th: Europe Day 12th: International Nurses’ Day (Florence Nightingale’s birthday) 13th: World Fair Trade Day 14th: National Children’s Day; Mothers’ Day in USA 15-19th: Walk to School Week 17th: National Numeracy Day 18th: International Museum Day 20th: World Bee Day to raise awareness of the importance of pollinators.

22nd: International Day for Biological Diversity 23rd: World Turtle Day 23-27th: Chelsea Flower Show 29th: Late Spring Bank Holiday

Events in June:

2-4th: London Gallery Open Weekend 5th: World Environment Day 5-11th: Bike Week; Child Safety Week 8th: World Ocean Day; Deadline for submissions for July/August events 10-11th: Open Garden Square Weekend 12-16th: Healthy Eating Week.

17th: King Charles III Official Birthday, Trooping of the Colour 17-18th: West End Live Free, Trafalgar Square.

18th: Fathers’ Day To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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COMMUNITY PAGE Surbiton Historical Society Meet at CornerHouse, Douglas Road Tuesdays, 7.30pm, bar opens at 7pm.

Tues 2nd May: Surbiton Hill by Janet Heski Tues 6th June: One Thames or Two by Jon Cotton Tues 4th July: Artists, Antiquaries & Collections by Julian Pooley Tues 1st August: The Archeology of the Orpington Area by Michael Meekums

er Crossword

Enquiries to Membership Secretary, Mrs Ann Glover

7) )

period

For information onother dates and talks please contact: Tel 020 8330 0339 Email ann.glover418@outlook.com

Disclaimer

Remember, you can pick up a copy of A Berrylands Companion magazine at the following: Surbiton & Tolworth Library, Shan’s Pharmacy, MBE Surbiton, Park Hill Express, Berrylands Post Office, Balaclava Church Hall, Ex-Cellar Wine Bar, Tolworth Recreation Centre, Surbiton Racket Club Read it whilst you wait at: Aspen Vets, Berrylands Autocare Garage, Confidental Dental Surgery, Emma’s Hair Salon, Kingston Care, Vets4Life, Business Centre Maple Road, Lib Dem Office If you would like copies at your business please call me on:

020 8274 0096

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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

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COMMUNITY PAGE

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 run by volunteers, can provide a 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

Surbiton Bird Club Fully accessible monthly talks at St Matthew’s School, Langley Road, Surbiton, KT6 6LW 7.30pm-9.30pm Non members always welcome, £2 for tea & cake donation appreciated!

Membership includes access to Hogsmill Nature Reserve and hides

Tues16th May: Social Evening for members. Tickets are available at the door, £7.00.

Tues 20th June: Simon Ginnaw, British Coastal Birds & their Secret Life.

Field Outings: Friendly walks for beginners to experts.

To confirm participation, arrange time and meeting place, and pre-arrange lifts if needed and available: Full details Surbitonbirds.org. 020 8399 9121 Sun 30th April: all day: Otmoor RSPB & Farmoor Reserve, near Oxford. Leader: Paul Spencer Weds 3rd May: All day, midweek walk Pulborough Brooks RSPB, Leader: Mike White Thurs 11th May: All day, Dungeness RSPB, Leader Peter Knox Sun 14th May: Morning Staines Moor. Leader Thelma Caine Sun 21st May: Morning, Horton Country Park. Leader Paul Spencer Sun 28th May: Short day, Tice’s Meadow & Crooksbury Common

Full details Surbitonbirds.org. 020 8399 9121

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

Deadlines for submitting new artwork for forthcoming issues of A Berrylands Companion 8th May for June issue 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

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What’s On/Local Events

1st Tuesday: NHS Retirement Club, For information call Lorna: 020 8337 4121

Kingston Camera Club: For more information visit: www.kingstoncameraclub.com

Last Sunday of the month: Women on Wheels, 020 8547 5865. E-mail: ccst@ rbk.kingston.gov.uk

Kingston Jazz Society: Every other Tuesday 7.30-9.30pm at The Druids Head, Kingston.

Listen with us, to the best of recorded jazz.

New members warmly welcomed. Contact: kingstonjazzsoc@gmail.com

Chit Chat Sketch: Meets at Court Farm garden centre, Mondays at 2pm, Thursdays at 10am. Time subject to change, availability space limited. Book your place: 07889 897 017 or email: kkpart@outlook.com. Please bring sketch book & pencils Session £8 plus drink.

Christ Church Surbiton Hill: Midweek Communion, simple service of Holy Communion at 12.30-1pm. Open from 11am for quiet prayer, alternate Wednesdays, www. ccsurbiton.org Cornerston Church, Tel: 0208 549 0733. info@cornerstonechurchkingston.org Emmanuel Church: Calling all years 6-9 to the Oasis and Cross Train groups, Fridays 7-8.30pm at Emmanuel Church. Information at emmanueltolworth.org.uk Encore Singing Group: Mondays, 10 to 12 term time at St Matthew’s Church KT6 66JQ Pop in for a free taster or email Liz: gillyvor@ hotmail.com Fircroft Listening Café: Phone or text: 07598 910797. Email: listeningcafe@thefircrofttrust. org Buses 71, 465, K1, K4.

Free Healing Meditation Workshop for Stress & Anxiety: For more information on what to bring & to sign up, go to: www.georgiemacs. com Hook Church: If you would like to pray with someone, Hook Church Brook Road, KT6 5DB is open Saturday mornings, 11-12.30pm. You would be most welcome. Info: 0208 391 0335 Hope in Depression: Free course that educates & equips adults & their supporters, with tools & proven tips about how to cope better with depression & anxiety. Hosted by Christ Church, Surbiton Hill over 6 Tuesday evening sessions. Expert speakers explore different aspects of mental health each week. For more info visit ccsurbiton.org/hidc

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Kingston Pensioners’ Forum: Contact Diane Double, Tel: 07762 663 483/020 8397 5084, email: kingstonpensionersforum@hotmail. co.uk Kingston Philatelic Society: Info: Brian Sole Tel: 01932 220 677 or email: brian.sole@btinternet.com Kingston Speakeasy: Contact Alick Munro on alick@munro.com or call 0208 892 9243 for date of next meeting.

Ladies Exercise Club: Keep Moving friendly & fun exercise classes for over 60s Fridays 10.15am. 1st class free, then £6/session. Call Mary, 01483 284 716 or maryedwards77s@ gmail.com Mind in Kingston:www.mindkingston.org.uk or 020 8255 3939 Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom: At St Mark’s Church Hall, Church Hill Rd. Contact Libby Curzon, 020 8391 1215. Email: curzone@hotmail.com Oasis: daytime group for over 60s at Emmanuel Church, Grand Avenue, Tolworth. Meetings on Wednesdays at 2.30pm, 3rd & 17th May, 7th & 21st June. There will be time for icebreakers, chat, puzzles, a 5 minute bible based talk, relevant to our lives plus refreshments. For details: 020 8390 2372 and leave a message.

Open Door: A friendship group aimed mainly at seniors, meeting in the lounge at Christ Church from 2.15-4.00pm on 11th & 25th May and 8th & 22nd June. Refreshments available, full programme to be finalised. For any further information and updates please check on: www.ccsurbiton.org or call the office: 0208490 7215 Surbiton Probus Club:Meets on the third Wednesday of every month, at noon, at Glenmore House, 6 The Crescent, Surbiton for socialising, a lunch and a speaker. Club membership is open to anyone who has retired or partly retired and who has worked in a professional or business environment. If you

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What’s On/Local Events are interested in visiting or joining, further details are available on the Club website – www.surbitonprobus.org.uk/membership or from the General Secretary email < surbitonprobus@outlook.com > St John’s Church: Community Cafe open at St John’s Chursh, Grove Lane KT1 2SU fro 10am-1pm. Come for elevenses, or early lunch with friends. Toasted sandwiches, real coffee and home made cakes to eat or take away Vegetarian & gluten free also. For more info: see website or email: parishhall@ stjohnskingston.co.uk

St Mark’s Bridge Club: Meets in Surbiton on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 12.30 - 15.30.

Phone our secretary Peter on 020 8398 6811 to come and give it a go. If you do not already have a playing partner we will endeavour to find you one.

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.

St. Matthew’s Church: Come along to the Balance Community Cafe every Wednesday 10am -2pm, for tea, coffee, cakes and light lunches, with a Bereavement Cafe meeting each month at 10.30am. Everyone welcome.

Surbiton Chess Club: Now meets every Tuesday evening at Tolworth Reform Church, 90 Elgar Avenue, KT5 9JR from 7.30pm -10pm.

New members welcome. Further details & our Covid policy from: www.surbitonchessclub. co.uk/ email: enquiries@surbitonchessclub. co.uk or at twitter@SurbitonChess.co.uk/ Scottish Country Dancing: Check website: www.surbitoncaledonian.co.uk or call: 01932 784 866 Surbiton Club for the Blind and Visually Impaired: We meet every other Tuesday 2-4pm in the Methodist Church next to the fire station. Chat, entertainment and afternoon teas are served. We welcome newcomers readily. Lifts available. Further details 07443643716

The Reading Retreat: Everyone welcome! A free & friendly weekly shared reading group led by a trained Reader Leader volunteer.

Nothing to read beforehand, just come along to a session to read & listen to a short written piece such as a story or poem , then join in a discussion. Tuesdays 10.30-11.30am, Alfriston Day Centre, 3 Berrylands Road, KT5 8RB. Wednesdays 2.30 - 3.30pm at Tolworth Library, 37-39 The Broadway, KT6 7DJ, Thursdays 10.30-11.30am at Surbiton Library KT6 6AG Email: libraryvolunteers@kingston.gov.uk for further info.

Tiny Tunes: www.tinytuneslive.com

Tolworth United Reformed Church, please call Roger on 07525 410 083 / 0202 8393 4270 or email jones.ra@btinternet.com for information.

Tolworth World of Dance: Dance for Fun, Fitnes & Friends Wednesday (term time) Mornings: 10.30-12.00. St George’s, Hamilton Avenue, Tolworth KT6 7PT. First time FREE, then £5/week, pay as you go. Contact Phil or Brenda: EM: philip.steventon@btinternet.com Facebook/Tolworth World of Dance. Tel: 020 8397 9649

Twickenham Jazz Club: Wednesday nights at The Cabbage Patch in Twickenham, from 7.30-10.30pm. World renowned Jazz musicians live! Please visit our website to check upcoming events: www. twickenhamjazzclub.com Women do Craft: Christ Church, Surbiton Hill. Every 2nd Weds of the month in the lounge, 7.30-9.15pm. Catch up, chat and do craft together. Check website: www. ccsurbiton.org These pages are for local clubs, societies and groups to have their information available to readers of A Berrylands Companion.

If your club or society is not listed on the Local Events, send in the details!!

Surbiton Floral Club: Tel: 020 8399 8193 Talking of Trains in Surbiton: Programme of talks at Surbiton Library Hall, each Wednesday evening through April and May 2023. presentations on Railway Subjects by Resident Speaker Dick Crane & Guests. Class

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

fee £50 covering 22 meetings.Details on www. talkingoftrains.co.uk More details on website: www.talkingoftrains.co.uk

Please send in the updated information for your club by the 8th of the month before issue month.

Clubs, Schools, Churches, & Charity events should be submitted to karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Please mention the magazine when contacting advertisers Index Home & Garden Car Maintenance

19 All Your Garden Needs 33 Berrylands Builders Ltd 33 Berrylands Property Maintenance 2 Carpets4U 27 HoneyBee Roofing 5 Instaservices 20 Just Lawns & Gardens 31 KB Design 31 Leverett Electricals 47 R.J.Tree Services 19 Richey Brickwork 31 Robinsons & Sons 30 Roofs of Esher 21 Will Lord 33 William Stallion Electricals 18/20 Gardening 32 Home & Interiors 17 30 21 12 11 48 9 24 36

Rest & Relaxation Emma Parker Travel Encore Singing Group Rebel Waltz Cycle Solutions Surbiton Bowls Club Surbiton Methodist Tennis Club Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club Viv Martin Hairdresser Health Movie Mansions: Mrs Doubtfire

12 12 13 21 10 14

Children & Education 1st Tolworth Beavers Christ Church School Fair Kingston Grammar School Surbiton Girl Guiding Surbiton High School Kids Page

15 15 15

Veterinary Aspen Veterinary Surgery Cats Protection League Pet Care

7

Finance Mark Baker

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37 35 37 35

Alan Sursham Berrylands Autocare K&P Tyres Volks Autos

29 21 26

Food & Drink Glenmore House Prithi Baking

25

Funeral Directors FW. Paine

17

Solicitors Lewis & Dick

Articles & Editorials 3 Useful Telephone Numbers 4 Books 6/8 Finance 16 Travel: Hua Hin 19 Crossword 22/23 Special: King Charles III 28 Special: Weddings then & now 38 Safety Charter 39 Sir Edward Davey M.P 42/43 Community Pages 44/45 What’s On & Local Events Pages

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 £58 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

R.J. Tree Services providing excellence locally for 15 years.

Our qualified & professional staff are dedicated to the highest levels of service in every instance.

Free Quotes Tree Felling Stump Removal Hedgeworks

Tree Reductions / Crown Thins Tree Surveys & Reports £10 million insurance liability cover Diploma qualified NPTC licensed Office: 020 8399 0103 Mobile: 07980 903881 info@rjtrees.co.uk LOOK FOR THE RED TREE!

R.J. Tree Services, Berrylands, Surbiton Visit our website for information and videos on all aspects of our work www.rjtrees.co.uk

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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International tennis returns to Surbiton between th-11th June 2023 Limited tickets and ground passes remaining, don’t miss the event of the summer!

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