The Brent Magazine 156 - Summer 2018

SUMMER 2018 • ISSUE 156

NEWS • VIEWS • WHAT’S ON • LOCAL INFO • FEATURES • ARTS & CULTURE

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Brent Your magazine about life in Brent, published by Brent Council

The young ones Caring for the young carers • I nspiring stories from talented youths •F uture is bright for supported interns

Brent in the sun! Celebrating the 10 things to do Windrush generation this summer – 70 years on

BRENT LONDON BOROUGH OF CULTURE 2020 #Brent2020

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Wembley High Technology College is one of the top performing schools in the country

OPEN EVENING Wednesday 12th September 2018 | 5.30pm – 8.30pm ‘Outstanding school’ (OFSTED) ‘Outstanding Sixth Form’ (BRENT SCHOOLS PARTNERSHIP) The 2ND HIGHEST Progress 8 score in the COUNTRY (+1.65)

The HIGHEST Progress score for maths in the COUNTRY (+2.09)

SIXTH FORM Progress is in the TOP 1% of the COUNTRY

54% of all GCSE grades awarded were A*s and As

Wembley Multi-Academy Trust comprises of the following schools: WEMBLEY HIGH TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE, EAST LANE PRIMARY SCHOOL & NORTH BRENT SCHOOL† †

Opening September 2020

Headteacher: Mr. A. Hathi | www.whtc.co.uk

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IN THIS ISSUE...

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SAFER BRENT

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YOUNG TALENT GET HAPPY AND COLOURED

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FORGET ME NOT SUMMER LOVIN’

NEWS A round-up of the latest news in Brent

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GENERATIONS OF LEARNING New project captures histories of Pakistani and Irish elders

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SAFER BRENT Let’s talk community safety

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FORGET ME NOT Ken Goppy on living with dementia

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GET HAPPY AND COLOURED Discounted tickets available for this year’s fun run

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YOUNG TALENT Talented teens show off newfound skills in filming

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TRIED AND TASTED Our verdict is out on Wembley’s Lounge Café

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SUMMER LOVIN’ Our top picks of things to do in Brent this summer

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WINNING WORKSPACES Affordable and convenient studios for start-up’s

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Q&As WITH THE CABINET Get to know your new Cabinet members

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YOUR COUNCILLORS Do you know your local councillors and how to contact them?

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LOOKING BACK AT SPURS A look at Tottenham Spurs’ time in Wembley

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SIMEON SAYS In the young footsteps of 9 year-old carer, Simeon

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SKILLS FOR LIFE Supported internship helps students find jobs

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ECO BIRTHDAY IS BORN Fatema Paretha revolutionises birthdays with eco-friendly parties

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RINGSIDE WITH RONALD Radio 5 sports commentator, Ronald McIntosh, reminisces on his epic coverages

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WINDRUSH 70 70th anniversary tribute to the Windrush generation

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ARTS AND CULTURE Theatre, music, events and more

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WHAT’S ON Classes, fitness and opportunities near you

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www.facebook.com/BrentCouncil twitter.com/Brent_Council

Brent Customer Services 020 8937 1234 www.brent.gov.uk

The Brent Magazine is available in large print and audio tape.

Please call 020 8937 1234 Issue No. 156 Summer 2018 Distribution queries and editorial: tbm@brent.gov.uk EDITOR Joss Dempster joss.dempster@brent.gov.uk PRODUCTION EDITOR Middleton Mann middleton.mann@brent.gov.uk ADVERTISING SALES Jessica Trace jessica. trace@brent.gov.uk advertising@brent.gov.uk Published by Brent Council Brent Council does not accept responsibility for any goods or services offered by advertisers. Publication of an advertisement does not imply recommendation by the council of goods or services advertised.

Printed on 100 per cent FSC paper. Please use your local paper bank when disposing of this magazine and other paper. 72326BDU09/15

SKILLS FOR LIFE

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Sun is shining on Brent

Recent months have seen Brent’s community spirit continue to grow. As the days heat up, and more of us are spending time out and about, the borough is brimming with creativity, energy and potential.

From Brent’s rich sporting community to the vibrant histories of generations of immigrants, including the 70th anniversary of the Windrush celebrated in our libraries, people from all walks of life are making Brent a great place to live, work and play.

Moving from spring to summer brings changes and, after a busy local elections period in May, I am proud to introduce you to your new Cabinet, made up of hardworking councillors dedicated to serving Brent (page 32).

Everyone deserves the best start in life and you’ll see that young people are taking centre stage this summer.

Between internships for students with special educational needs and disabilities, shining a spotlight on a young carer and taking a trip through the youth stories of Brent, is it any wonder that Brent will be London Borough of Culture 2020?

Not to be missed are the many ways to get active this summer (page 28) or an inside look at boxing and catch up with Radio 5’s Commentator of the Year, Ronald McIntosh, who takes us through his storied career and the moments that shaped it (page 44).

If the change in temperatures has got you looking for new places to eat, popular cafés such as The Lounge Café (page 27) – London’s best restaurant, according to TripAdvisor – and the new Roundwood Park Café (page 29) may whet your appetite.

No matter what your goal is this summer, whether it’s fitness or a desire to learn more about your local community, our fantastic borough can offer everything under the sun.

Cllr Muhammed Butt Leader of Brent Council

Olympic Way revamp to create world class destination Olympic Way revamp proposal has funding but is subject to planning permission

Torvill and Dean add their handprints to Square of Fame Skating legends and Olympic Champions Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean cemented their global celebrity skating status and handprints to the Square of Fame in Wembley Park.

The duo’s handprints commemorate their all-time record of 130 performances at The SSE Arena and join a large collection of handprints of famous artists and performers such as Madonna, George Michael and Dolly Parton.

NEWS Plans to transform Olympic Way – the world famous walk from Wembley Park tube station to Wembley Stadium – into a world class destination in its own right are set to go ahead before the Euro 2020 football finals, subject to planning permission.

Brent Council has confirmed its decision to contribute funding towards a new public square, new safety features – including anti-terror measures – and the replacement of the ugly concrete ramps.

As part of the agreement, any income generated from Olympic Way, such as from advertising or space hire, will be shared between developer Quintain, who are also contributing to the improvements and the council. The well-trodden route to the home of English football will also see Box Park open in the autumn and a new theatre in the former Fountain Studios nearby (see page 11).

The news comes as the FA considers whether to sell the stadium and, while no deal has been confirmed, the council has said that any new owner will be asked to pay up to a third of the cost of the proposed improvements to the southern end of Olympic Way. Cllr Shama Tatler, Brent Council’s

Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “Olympic Way is a processional route for millions of visitors and, if approved, these improvements will help make it a safer, more attractive and desirable location – a destination in itself.

“It will mean more visitors spending more time in the borough, creating an economic benefit that will be felt much further afield than Wembley. This is also about the council thinking more commercially and about the long-term as we continue to face significant cuts to our funding from central Government. By helping to pay for these improvements now, we will create an annual return for years to come which can be reinvested across the borough.”

The council’s contribution will be funded by community infrastructure levy (CIL) money. The cash, which is collected from developers, goes into two pots. The first pot is for neighbourhood projects – such as £268,000 for the Preston Road Community Library fit out, £65,000 for digital employment skills hub in Kilburn, or the £95,000 for new play equipment in Woodcock Park. The second pays for major strategic infrastructure improvements which deliver a wider economic benefit such as the Olympic Way transformation.

See how you can apply for neighbour CIL money before the deadline on 30 June, by visiting www.brent.gov.uk/CIL, or 1 December for the round after.

TV swoops on rogue landlords TV viewers got to see what Brent’s licensing enforcement team is up against in the council’s continued crackdown on rogue landlords.

A crew filming for the Channel 5 series Bad Tenants, Rogue Landlords followed council officers on a dawn raid in Winchester Avenue, Kingsbury, and found 35 men crammed into a three-bedroom semi-

detached house.

The shocking episode, which aired last month, showed how the elusive culprits were taken to court where they were slapped with more than £20,000 in fines.

If you suspect that someone is renting out an unlicensed property in Brent, please report them anonymously at www. brent.gov.uk/ reportaproperty.

NEWS IN BRIEF

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TELL US WHAT YOU LOVE ABOUT WHERE YOU LIVE A new and improved version of Cleaner Brent app is now available and has a ‘Love It’ button. Snap away and send photos of places you love in Brent. Why not also share the love on social media, using the hashtag #LoveBrent.

Download the updated version at www.brent. gov.uk/cleanerbrentapp

YOUTH OFFER WEBSITE SOON TO BE LAUNCHED A website for young people aged 11-18 (up to 25 with special educational needs and disabilities) will go live this summer to help promote activities, leisure, sports, advice, support, and learning and training opportunities. One of its features will be a searchable directory that allows young people to quickly find areas of interest and create their own search shortlists. To be included in the directory, visit www. brent.gov.uk/youthoffer.

NEW SERVICE TO TACKLE FUNERAL POVERTY

Brent’s licensing enforcement team found 35 men living © one Channel 5 in house

Bereaved families have a new option for an affordable funeral, thanks to a new council service aimed at cutting funeral poverty. The Brent Funeral Service offers residents a simple but dignified funeral service of either a burial or cremation for around half the national cost, with the option to choose additional services on top.

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Comedian and author Harry Hill delights Wembley pupils Harry having a laugh with young students

Children from Barham Primary School, Wembley were lucky to be part of an audience with comedian, TV presenter and children’s author Harry Hill in March.

Harry regaled his audience with a rib-tickling comedy show which involved plenty of jokes and practical fun and a presentation about his journey to becoming an author.

The popular funny man read some of his newest book – Matt Millz – which is about a child who wants to be a comedian.

Harry also called on some budding young comedians from the audience to take the microphone and try their best jokes on stage.

Samaritans celebrate 50th anniversary

Brent’s former Mayor helps celebrate the Samaritans’ achievement

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Samaritans in Harlesden have proudly marked 50 years of listening.

The charity took its first call in 1967 and today has around 50 volunteers who work on a rota shift supporting anyone feeling down, depressed, anxious or struggling to cope.

Former Mayor of Brent, Cllr Bhagwanji Chohan, was guest of honour at the 50th anniversary celebrations in March and thanked the local Samaritans personally.

Cllr Chohan said: “I can feel for myself that your centre in Leopold Road has a very special community feeling, with volunteers from their early 20s to others in their 80s all working together to share a common goal.

“You are literally offering a lifeline to people, and I wish you the best for the next 50 years.”

Paul Ricketts, Director of Brent Samaritans, said: “I am incredibly proud of every Samaritans’ volunteer who has helped deliver the service over the last 50 years.”

Last year volunteers from Brent took almost 4,000 phone calls, replied to 924 emails and texts and saw 74 callers face-to-face, offering emotional support.

NEWS

Local takeaways commit to healthier cooking

Fast food outlets in Brent are being encouraged to consider how they prepare and cook food to support customers to eat healthier – with 36 local eateries given the Healthier Catering Commitment Award so far.

The award scheme acknowledges takeaways that are actively promoting healthier cooking.

Brent has high rates of obesity

and Type 2 diabetes among residents and eating foods high in saturated fat, salt and sugar contributes to these illnesses.

To get the award, restaurants need to use healthier oils, limit salt, promote water and low sugar drinks, and consider healthier alternatives such as salad or jacket potatoes.

So far, 36 local businesses have achieved the Healthier Catering

Commitment Award including Manhattan Charcoal Grill, Master’s Pizza & Kebab, and several Sam’s Chicken outlets.

Mohammad Rasouli of Master’s Pizza & Kebab in Harlesden says: “Our customers have noticed the HCC Certificate on the wall. Our chicken is steamed and grilled, we do not deep fry our chicken and our customers are happy.”

New landlord licensing rules to be extended

Kilburn’s Tricycle Theatre becomes ‘The Kiln’ theatre after £7million revamp

Landlords of houses in multiple occupation need to get a property licence as new rules come in from the council and Government later this year.

The council extended selective licensing to all privately rented properties in Dudden Hill, Kensal Green, Kilburn, Mapesbury and Queen’s Park from 1 June 2018. A selective licence costs £540 for up to five years.

The Government is introducing further changes to mandatory licences for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) from 1 October 2018.

Any property that has five or more people living in it who are unrelated will require a mandatory HMO licence which will cost £840 for up to five years.

The Tricycle Theatre will re-open in September with a brand new name and an ambitious adaptation of Zadie Smith’s Willesden-set novel White Teeth.

Following a two-year, £7million refurbishment, the newly renamed Kiln Theatre will expand from 235 to 296 seats with a café, improved bar and foyer.

Artistic director Indhu Rubasingham has spent the closure period programming a year’s worth of work including six premieres, a community play, a musical, and their biggest production yet, a stage adaptation of White Teeth.

“I wanted a name that rooted us in Kilburn’s community and that reflects the company’s programming and ethos – that idea of energy and creativity.”

Artistic director Indhu Rubasingham

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Tottenham legend joins residents who love where they live

Former Tottenham and England legend Gary Mabbutt MBE joined volunteers to help pick up litter around Wembley in May. Gary joined volunteers from Keep Wembley Tidy and Wembley Central and Alperton Residents Association for the clean up.

He said: “Looking after the area you live in and helping the environment is something we should all take pride in.

With Wembley being the club’s home for this season, I am pleased to have been able to offer a helping hand to help keep the area tidier.”

The community clean-ups are organised as part of Brent Council’s Love Where You Live campaign.

Volunteer Kay Carroll said: “Our dedicated volunteers work tirelessly collecting litter and reporting flytipping hot spots. Each litter pick, we collect 20-30 bags of waste comprising beer cans and bottles, and fast food packaging.”

Report rubbish, potholes and more on the Cleaner Brent app – you can WHeRe You LiVe it WHeRe You LiVe WHeRe You LiVe download at www.brent.gov.uk/ cleanerbrent.

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Chelsea Flower Show garden relocates to Cricklewood xxx

Launched at the recent RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the CHERUB HIV garden has found a new home in Watling Gardens, Cricklewood.

The award-winning garden was designed by up-and-coming designer Naomi Ferret Cohen having featured in the world famous flower show.

Part of the garden has moved to Watling Gardens and will be tended by members of Ashford Place dementia groups, providing support and pleasure to people living with HIV. The ‘Life Without Walls’ garden is a landmark project for, and about, people living with HIV. Naomi Ferret Cohen (third from left) designed the ‘Life Without Walls’ garden

© Andy Ferrett

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Hefty fine given to Wembley shop for selling alcohol to underage boy A Wembley off-licence has been ordered to pay more than £2,000 after being caught selling alcohol to a 15-year-old.

Green Planet Services Ltd trading as Buy2Save, at Carlyon Road in Wembley, was ordered to pay £2,053 at Willesden Magistrates Court on 10 April, after selling the alcohol to the 15-year-old, who was accompanied by a 14-year-old boy at the time of sale.

Simon Legg, Senior Regulatory Service Manager at Brent Council, said: “The law is there for a reason and licenced premises have a duty to ensure that young people are prevented from accessing alcohol.

“If any residents have concerns about shops selling alcohol to children, please contact trading. standards@brent.gov.uk.”

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Join our team of

PROFESSIONAL RS FOSTER CARE and make a difference today

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For more details, call 0 20 8937 4538 www.brent.gov.uk/fost ering

foster Brent

NEWS £1m doorstep scammers arrested Three men have been arrested on suspicion of defrauding six elderly victims out of almost £1 million pounds through a doorstep trading scam.

The men, aged in their 40s, were arrested following a series of early morning raids carried out by the Metropolitan Police Service, in partnership with Brent and Harrow Trading Standards and South Wales Police.

Simon Legg, Senior Regulatory Service Manager at Brent Council, said: ‘We wish to make it clear that those who prey on the elderly or vulnerable extracting money for unnecessary building works and other fraudulent scams will not be tolerated.”

Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim is advised to contact the police on 101.

Did you catch the Fostering Bus? Brent’s Fostering Team hit the road in May on board a double-decker red bus in their biggest recruitment drive yet.

The Fostering Bus visited local supermarkets and sports centre in and around Brent as part of a series of activities marking Foster Care Fortnight, an annual campaign to raise awareness of the need for more foster carers for children and young people in care.

To find out more visit www.brent. gov.uk/ fostering.

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Gold award for healthy John Keble Primary school A school in Harlesden has become the first in Brent to achieve the Healthy Schools London Gold Award.

John Keble Primary, on Crownhill Road, has been recognised for the school’s commitment to providing an environment and culture that helps pupils to grow up to be healthy.

The school met a rigorous set of criteria to achieve gold status, including getting pupils to be more active, learn about healthy eating, and be aware of the importance of oral health and the consequences of too much sugar.

All schools can register and apply for three levels of Healthy School London Awards: Bronze, Silver and Gold.

Currently, 65 schools in Brent are registered to achieve an award with 32 schools achieving Bronze status so far.

Pupils at John Keble primary school received a Gold award

NEWS

Brand new theatre for Wembley Park BRENT LONDON BOROUGH OF CULTURE 2020 #Brent2020

The theatre reflects the continuing growth of Wembley Park

Roe Green welcomes new feathered friends Two rare Egyptian geese have been spotted exploring their new home in Roe Green Park. The recent sunshine has given a boost to biodiversity in parks, as the wildflower meadows continue to flourish and become home to a number of different species of wildlife.

The former Fountain Studios building in Wembley Park is set to reopen as a 2,000 capacity theatre this autumn.

BRENT LONDON BOROUGH The building, OF CULTURE 2020 which is best known as being the venue of live #Brent2020 televised shows including the X Factor, Britain’s Got Talent and Pop Idol, will be reopened by Troubadour Theatres – the award-winning team behind the King’s Cross Theatre – as a fully flexible theatre that can be adapted to suit the requirements of any show.

The theatre will have a restaurant, terrace and sociable bar space and is the latest cultural offering in Wembley Park, with Boxpark also set to open later this year.

James Saunders, chief operating officer of Quintain, said that he couldn’t wait to see the “iconic Fountain Studios given a new lease of life”.

Cllr Shama Tatler, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “This is a great new addition to Wembley Park which is so much more than a match day venue and is especially exciting as we build up to being London Borough of Culture 2020.”

Record breaking fine for Kingsbury dumpers

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A business in Kingsbury has been hit by fines of more than 36k for illegally dumping rubbish in a nearby street.

Ommegas Services Limited, of 270 Church Lane, was found guilty at Willesden Magistrates Court in April and ordered to pay a total of £36,572.50 for the offences.

Dennis Lewis, Enviro-Crime Enforcement Manager at Brent Council, said: “The outcome of this case clearly demonstrates just how utterly unacceptable illegally dumping rubbish is in Brent and should serve as a stern warning to anyone who might consider doing the same.

“Most residents and business owners in the borough love where they live and work, but to the small minority that continue to blight our environment, let me tell you - we aren’t going to stop until illegal rubbish dumping is a thing of the past in Brent. Unless you want to be hit with a fine or criminal record, you might want to think twice.”

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Brent welcomes its new mayor Dollis Hill councillor, Cllr Arshad Mahmood, has been elected as the new Mayor of Brent for 2018-19.

Born in Pakistan, Cllr Mahmood came to the UK when he was 14 years old and has lived in Dollis Hill ever since. He has worked mainly within the retail industry, before being inspired by his cousin, a social worker, to stand for election. He has four children and four grandchildren.

Cllr Ernest Ezeajughi, who represents Stonebridge ward, was elected as Deputy Mayor.

The Mayor will be supporting two charities during his year in office: Sufra NW London – a local charity established in 2013 to address both the causes and consequences of impoverishment in the community; and The READ foundation, a non-profit organisation working to create school places for children affected by poverty.

Reflecting on his new role, the new Mayor said: “It is a huge honour to be appointed Mayor of Brent and to serve this great borough. I’m looking forward to working together with residents and community groups across Brent, as well as raising money for my chosen charities for the year.”

Find your local councillor from page 34.

The gift of grandparents’ stories Grandparents have been invited to share their stories of the past with children from participating Brent primary schools in a community project called ‘Our Stories’.

The interactive project aims to promote the bond between grandparents and grandchildren as well as preserving stories from the past, learning more about the older generation and the child’s identity and place in the world.

To get involved, visit www.ourstoriesnow.com

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Cllr Arshad Mahmood

Previous beneficiary of the fund – Brent Mixed Voices

£9k funding boost for five lucky university students from Chalkhill The Chalkhill Community Trust Fund is offering £9,000 of funding to five students aged 18-25 with a place in higher education.

In return for the financial support, the successful applicants need to come from Chalkhill and have a place at university. In return for the £3k per year for three years, the successful students are required to complete 20 hours of community volunteering and provide regular updates to the Trustees.

In the past, the fund, which was established with a £1million endowment from Asda, helped over 30 local causes. Success stories include the Lounge Café – now London’s best restaurant, according to TripAdvisor (see page 27) – Chalkhill Community Radio and Brent Mixed Voices.

responsible for planning and designing many health services in the borough.

For more information please email: brentccg.engagement@nhs.net or call 020 8795 6107/6122

Attention all landlords

Properties wanted Since 1968 Shepherds Bush Housing Association has been a trusted part of the local community, now managing more than 5,000 homes. For 25 years, we’ve been managing, maintaining and guaranteeing rents for landlords.

Contact us to discuss your options and to arrange a no obligation visit

We are looking for properties in all areas on GUARANTEED or MARKET rent. Cash incentives offered.

GUARANTEED RENT SCHEME We can take on ‘hard to let’ or large properties including HMOs

MARKET RENT SCHEME • Yearly contracts • Free rent guarantee • Tenant referencing for your chosen tenant • Free photo inventory • 24/7 repairs service and furniture supply • Full Management or Rent Collection

• Advance monthly rent even if your property is empty • No management fee or commission – we pay what we quote • • Grants funding advice • No void works if the property becomes empty within lease (exceptions apply)

Landlords hotline: 020 8996 4271 psateam.sbha@sbhg.co.uk www.sbhg.co.uk/landlords

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Carers Centre wins London social care award – again!

For the second year running, the Brent Carers Centre has nabbed the ‘Best Carer Support Charity In London’ award at the 2018 Social Care Awards.

The training and support charity in Willesden was recognised for their high levels of innovation, compassion and courage.

The charity supports selfless individuals in need by

providing them with a range of services such as: emergency support, access to work and training, and carers’ relaxation clinic.

Anne-Marie Morris, Chief Executive of Brent Carers Centre, said: “We are extremely appreciative of being recognised by this award. Our staff work very hard in delivering a comprehensive range of support every year.”

Brent Carers staff in Willesden

COMMENT

Housing – a key priority for Brent

By Cllr Eleanor Southwood Cabinet Member for Housing and Welfare Reform Housing is one of the biggest challenges we face. Homelessness and rough sleeping across the UK is rising and owner-occupation levels for young people has collapsed because homes have become unaffordable.

The average private rent in London accounts for more than a third of household income pushing some tenants into the hands of rogue landlord offering

sub-standard accommodation. The nationwide bill for housing benefit has risen eight-fold since the early 1980s after inflation is taken into account.

England needs to build four million new homes to deal with the escalating crisis, according to research by HeriotWatt University, meaning 340,000 new homes will need to be built each year until 2031.

Brent’s a great place to live but,

NEWS

Harlesden heroes honoured Harlesden residents came together at the Pride of Harlesden Awards earlier this year to celebrate unsung community heroes who have contributed to improving the area by making it a safer, healthier and more enjoyable place.

Recently honoured community champion Leroy Simpson for Harlesden hosted and handed out awards to Harlesden’s most dedicated and hard-working members of the community alongside the Leader of Brent Council, Cllr Muhammed Butt.

The Volunteer of the Year award went to Peter Coles who cooks dinner every Tuesday at The Salvation Army Harlesden where he helps feed around 80 guests every week. Peter, a builder and decorator by trade, gives his time freely every week, arriving early and preparing the food.

Other awards went to Jeremy Huck (Funding Champion), David Bowes (Teaching and Developing Young People) and Stephanie Schonfield and Margaret Bailey (Committed

Volunteers to a Mission or Delivery of a Service).

Bobby Thomas, former Harlesden ward Councillor was recognised for his ongoing and outstanding contribution to raising the profile of Harlesden.

Cllr Butt said: “It was really great to see so many people who care about Harlesden coming together in one place to celebrate. A huge thank you to all those who have put so much effort into improving their local area. Events like this really show the strength of community spirit here in Brent.”

John Keble pupils crowned champions

given the nationwide housing crisis, too many people are forced to compromise.

Substandard conditions, insecure tenancies and high rents create massive pressures and many residents struggle to afford to live here at all. It doesn’t have to be like that and there are loads of ways to make things better.

I’ll be working with my Cabinet colleagues and the Mayor of London to build as many good quality, affordable homes as we can.

This year, we’re investing £21 million to improve the condition of our council properties and spending £400,000 on

Peter Coles: Harlesden Awards’ volunteer of the year

Year 6 students from Harlesden’s John Keble Primary School are the nation’s top under-11s mixed team after winning the PL Primary Stars Football Tournament which was held at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium on 23 May. The young footballers represented Chelsea FC in the competition and ended with a 1-0 victory over a team representing Newcastle United.

The boys had just missed the finals last year but had overcome 40 other teams in the 2018 tournament to pick up the title.

the way our estates look and feel. I’d love to see many more tenants and residents associations, too.

It’s a year since the devastating Grenfell tragedy. We’ll do everything in our power to make all council homes in this borough even more safe, particularly tower blocks.

We’ve set aside £10 million for enhanced fire safety measures. Simple things like keeping hallways and stairs clear are also important and we’re looking at how to provide better cycle parking to make this easier for residents.

Most people in Brent rent from private landlords and we’ll be applying to the government for powers to license even

more private rental properties.

And for landlords who choose to flout the rules and put their tenants at risk our message is clear. We will investigate and take the toughest action we can.

Changes to benefits and a hostile environment for some of our most vulnerable residents means that the risk of homelessness is all too real. Working with community groups, we’ll redouble our efforts to protect and support people as early as possible.

We’ve much to do in Brent. I’m looking forward to working with you to meet the challenge.

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NEWS

Wates appointed constructor in new £23.4m contract National developer, Wates Residential, has won a new £23.4m project –149 new homes to be built in Brent by December 2021.

The Knowles House redevelopment in Harlesden will include two new buildings, providing 92 homes for temporary accommodation and 57 for independent living to support some of the borough’s most vulnerable residents.

The high-quality housing is being provided as part of the council’s Temporary Accommodation Reform Plan, which will see £130 million spent on up to 600 new homes over a three-year period and improve housing for vulnerable residents in the borough.

Work is set to commence later this year.

As part of the project, Wates Residential and Brent Council have also made a joint pledge to provide

employment and training opportunities for local residents, delivering a lasting legacy for the community.

Cllr Margaret McLennan, Deputy Leader of Brent Council, said: “The redevelopment of Knowles House is a key part of our plan to provide better quality accommodation for residents in need of housing, but the benefits of this project don’t end there.”

Wembley Primary School choir

For a good paws Visitors to Cricklewood’s dementia café get up close and personal with dog Luna from TheraPaws, the animal therapy programme run by the Mayhew Animal Home in Kensal Green. The therapy dogs are trained to provide companionship to residents living with dementia and brighten up their day.

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Wembley Primary School choir sings it out for Kick it Out To celebrate 25 years of Kick it Out, a campaign for equality in football, the Wembley Primary School choir took centre stage at Wembley Stadium on 21 May to sing two specially commissioned songs at the anniversary event.

Among the audience were Greg Clarke, the FA Chairman and Lord Ouseley, Chair of Kick It Out. Simon Barr, Deputy Head at Wembley Primary, said: “It was a great thrill for all the children and adults involved. The choir sang wonderfully well, especially as this was their first public performance. Great credit also goes to our music lead Sarah MacGregor for teaching the songs and actions with only three weeks notice.”

MY COMMUNITY

Learning from the generations For the first time, a new project is collecting the stories of Pakistani and Irish immigrants who settled in Brent

D

uring the 50s and 60s, a generation of Pakistani and Irish immigrants left their homes to contribute to the rebuilding of London.

Many settled in Brent and the ‘Generations of Learning’ project, funded by the Heritage Lottery and run by Ashford Place is archiving their stories.

Jemina Sweeney came from Ireland when she was 18

Pakistan, Tariq moved to the UK at a young age, arriving in Cricklewood in 1965.

The area was known for its many factories and attracted thousands of immigrants from Ireland and Pakistan, as well as India and the West Indies.

“Many of the new arrivals weren’t very educated, so they had to come here, learn the language, understand the culture and start applying for jobs. Many of them had issues and

‘I learned over the years that Pakistani people are quite similar to Irish people in certain ways, such as family etiquette.’

Chair of the Pakistani Community Centre, Cllr Tariq Dar has been working closely with Ashford Place on the project. Born in Punjab,

Jemina has seen many changes in her area

those who were more educated started helping them out. So the Pakistani Welfare Association was formed to help the community in these times of need ”, says Tariq.

Tariq’s later work with older people in the community sowed the seeds for the Generations of Learning project. “We feel we are part and parcel of society and our history should be recorded for the generations to come,” he says.

Jemina Sweeney from County Dublin,

Cllr Tariq Dar, Chair of the Pakistani Community Centre Ireland moved to London when she was 18 and has many memories of the Irish and Pakistani communities living alongside one another.

Jemina says: “I learned over the years that Pakistani people are quite similar to Irish people in certain ways, such as family etiquette and respect and how the parents and grandparents were looked after.”

Having lived in Cricklewood/Kilburn for the past 50 years, Jemina has seen many changes in the area. She hopes the project will help the younger generations understand the experiences of their parents and grandparents.

Tariq and Jemina’s stories, and many others, will be part of an online exhibition, resources for schools, and live performances due to be developed by young adults from Brent over the summer. The oral history recordings will also be available at Brent Museum & Archives and will be part of the public history resource of the borough.

If you would like to share your stories, or find out about free events over the summer, visit www.golheritage.com . To take part in the project, contact Sorcha Ni Foghluda on 020 8208 8590 or sorcha.nifoghluda@ ashfordplace.org.uk

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Working together

FOR A SAFER BRENT Police Borough Commander Simon Rose is working hard for residents’ safety

S

imon Rose, the new Police Borough Commander for Brent, Harrow and Barnet sat down with our reporter to discuss the work his team are doing in the community and with the council to create a safer borough.

“Although there is now a joint Commander for the three boroughs, the work of the Partnership Tasking Team and Safer Neighbourhood PCs and Police Community Support Officers will continue exactly as before,” says Simon.

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Too many young lives have been lost due to violent crime across London.

Here, The Brent Magazine takes a look at some of the work being done locally to help break the cycle of crime “Tackling robbery and violent crime are still our priorities in Brent going forward, just as

target criminal activity and antisocial behaviour in Harlesden saw 55 people

‘It’s been encouraging to see more action around here recently and it feels like the community have really started to pull together’ they were before. We will be working hard to ensure that all the initiatives that matter to residents are maintained.”

Earlier this year, a six-week operation to

arrested, or issued with penalty charges for antisocial behaviour, and 31 street searches for weapons, resulting in 10 knives and a metal bar being seized.

SAFER BRENT

Police officers leave no stone unturned

O IT'S TIME T

TALK

A resident who has lived near Church Road for the past 15 years and wanted to remain anonymous said: “We’ve had such bad news across London recently, with too many young kids resorting to violence and hurting each other. It’s been encouraging to see more action around here recently and it feels like the community have really started to pull together to help make a change.”

Cllr Muhammed Butt, Brent Council Leader, said: “There are difficult times ahead and we all need to pull together. We’re going to continue to work with our partners in the

Metropolitan Police, Safer Neighbourhood Teams and the community to tackle the issues that residents have told us they want to see prioritised, including violent crime, gangs and antisocial behaviour.

“Operation Hope is just one example of the joint working to deliver a Safer Brent and we need everyone to continue to pull together to make Brent Cllr Muhammed Butt stronger and safer.”

Brent Council is supporting the Mayor of London’s campaign ‘London Needs You Alive’, which sends a positive message to young people that their lives are too valuable to be put at risk by carrying a knife. Spread this powerful message within your community using #LondonNeedsYouAlive and send us your stories at tbm@brent.gov.uk To find out more about the work to create a stronger and safer Brent, visit www.brent.gov.uk/timetotalk

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MY COMMUNITY

Dementia and me Living with dementia, local Kensal Rise resident Ken Goppy tells The Brent Magazine how he is dealing with his life-changing diagnosis

P

eople living with dementia can often feel that society misunderstands them. Feeling isolated and no longer feeling part of the community, many people feel they have to deal with the challenge of living with dementia alone.

Before dementia, Ken, 72, was living and working in Kensal Rise. We met him at the Dementia Cafe in Ashford Place, Cricklewood, where he was happily working through a crossword puzzle.

“I was formally diagnosed in 2016,” says Ken, “But looking back, the symptoms started at least 18 months before. I just never thought much of it because I thought dementia happened to much older people.”

Ken laughs at his own naiveté, very relaxed to tell his story. He had retired from working in children’s services and was always active in the community. After a while, his children started to think he was ‘having problems’. Some of the symptoms included memory loss, communication problems and confusion.

It took nearly four months before Ken fully accepted he had dementia. He says: “It took me awhile to accept that it was happening to me. In the first couple of months, I was in denial. I was asking: why me?” The challenges made it difficult for Ken to have a social life and carry on with his interests.

“But now,” Ken says proudly, “I have grown to accept where I am, what I am, and what my needs are as other people perceive it, as well as myself.”

On a typical day, Ken still likes to go out and about, visit his local barber, and talk to people. He is even amused that they often come to him for advice.

Asked how he felt about his future, Ken says he’s ‘very comfortable’. He is mostly cared for by his wife who happens to

work in specialised care for the elderly. He also has a son in local government and a daughter-in-law in social work. With lots of help and support from his family, Ken is confident they will keep him on track: “My family knows how to discipline me well!”

Together for a Dementia-Friendly Brent

The number of Brent residents aged 65 and over living with dementia is expected to rise by around 1,500 to around 4,000 by 2030. Following the Brent Dementia Summit in May, Community Action on Dementia, Brent CCG and Brent Council have committed to being a borough where every person with dementia – no matter who they are or where they live – can live well and feel part of their community.

Councillor Harbi Farah, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “The Mayor of London has made a commitment to making London the world’s first dementia-friendly capital; we are taking this further by making Brent a dementia-friendly borough.

“Brent will be a place where every person living with dementia – no matter who they are or where they live – is understood, respected and supported so that they can continue to live in the way they want to and in the community they choose.”

Dementia Friendly Communities is a programme which aims to engage people living with dementia, local businesses and providers to rise to the challenge and help deliver the promise of a dementia-friendly Brent by 2020.

Cllr Harbi Farah Visit www.cad-brent.org.uk.

‘I have grown to accept where I am, what I am, and what my needs are as other people perceive it, as well as myself.’

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Ken Goppy’s dementia started with communication problems and confusion

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HAPPY & HEALTHY

Runners having fun in last year’s race

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Color Run FUN

HAPPY & HEALTHY The countdown is on for the annual Color Run, dubbed the happiest 5k on the planet

C

elebrating health, happiness and the carefree joy of colour, the Color Run is a 5K fun run like no other. In its fourth year running in the UK, the Color Run is set to hit Wembley Park on Sunday 8 July with around 20,000 people expected to attend.

Like all sporting events, participants will turn up kitted out in trainers and comfortable clothes. However, this particular run has an unusual twist.

Wearing white, those taking part can run, skip, dance or walk their way around Wembley Park, all the while being pelted with colourful powder.

Open to everyone, the event is popular with first-time runners and people of all ages just looking to have fun.

Neasden resident and amateur photographer, Jermaine Ricketts, said: “I’m excited to do the run and anticipate that it will be fun from

start to finish. This will be my first ever Color Run so bring on the challenge, as I’m ready to go!”

Jermaine was one of 23 Brent residents who won entry tickets from Wembsley Park after taking part in a free local training programme.

Lene Jorgensen from Wembley, who has taken part in endurance races, such as the notoriously challenging Tough Mudder, is new to the Color Run and is expecting ‘to soak up the incredible atmosphere’. Having heard from others how ‘exciting and fun’ the event is, she’s keen to give it a try. “Being covered in powder paint will be a new experience and I am all for that,” says Lene.

The Color Run originated in the United States and has taken place in more than 35 countries since 2012. Bringing communities together in cities all over the world, it is the world’s largest run event series and one of the most popular fun runs in the UK.

ARE YOU UP FOR IT? Color Run is offering discounted tickets exclusively for The Brent Magazine readers.

Simply sign up at www.thecolorrun.co.uk and enter the code BRENTCOLORRUN2018.

The code is valid until Sunday 1 July 2018 but does not include Little Color Runner places.

Color me happy: Participants revel after 5k

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ARTS & CULTURE

Young producers: A group of teenagers are learning skills to produce a film

YOUTH STORIES OF BRENT

Young people from across Brent have been busy producing a new documentary film – the story of inspirational and dynamic young people capturing their life journeys so far, and their hopes and ambitions for the future

Y

outh Stories of Brent is a film made by young people for young people. A group of 13-19 year olds have spent the last few months being trained in film production skills by expert coach, Darae Palmer from media company You’re Only Young Once.

The young film makers have played a central role in

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the making of Youth Stories of Brent, each contributing their unique talents and inspirational stories.

Kaiaa Shepnekh-Boston, a 13-year-old aspiring actress from Harlesden, said: “There has been a lot of negative stories about young people in the press, which is very demotivating. We wanted to challenge this one-sided view and tell our own diverse stories.”

ARTS & CULTURE

Coach, Darae (right) shows the youngsters how it’s done

Priya Bharadia, 15, from Kingsbury, would like to be a journalist and has gained valuable media experience through this project. She said: “We want this film to be inspirational to other young people, and to show them that there are many positive activities happening in the borough.”

Hussein Mohamed, a 16-year-old talented artist from Kilburn, said: “Young people are doing amazing things in Brent; we wanted to shine the light on them. The stories in the film include sports people, ex-prisoners, apprentices, entrepreneurs and anyone making a difference in their own way.”

On completion of the project, each young person will have gained transferable skills and receive an arts award qualification.

Cllr Eleanor Southwood, Cabinet Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, said: “We are very proud to have led on the Youth Stories of Brent film project. The project is part of Brent’s commitment to strengthening communities, and getting younger

residents involved in positive activities in the lead up to the London Borough of Culture 2020. It is important to acknowledge the support from our partner Wates Living Space, with whom we have been able to bring this project to life.

“We hope that young people continue to share their inspirational stories with each other, break down barriers and feel inspired to succeed.”

After the launch this summer, the ‘Youth Stories of Brent’ film will be available on www.brent.gov.uk.

To get involved, keep up-to-date and share your story, why not follow on Instagram @youthstoriesofbrent

BRENT LONDON BOROUGH

B

LO OF #B

OF CULTURE 2020 #Brent2020

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WELCOME TO

KILBURN

THE TRICYCLE TRANSFORMED

World Premiere Kiln Theatre presents

HOLY SH!T

by Alexis Zegerman

5 SEP – 6 OCT 2018 Tickets from £10 | Brent Residents £2 off tickets Mon – Thu KilnTheatre.com | 020 7328 1000 269 Kilburn High Road, NW6 7JR @KilnTheatre

Kiln Theatre Limited. Registration No. 1396429. Charity No. 276892

MY COMMUNITY

Come dine with me

Brent’s best kept foodie secret is out! London’s highest rated TripAdvisor restaurant is Chalkhill’s own Lounge Café. We sent in an undercover food critic to see if the hype is deserved

T

he Lounge Café is in the high-ceilinged atrium of the Welford Centre, serving Chalkhill residents with a range of NHS and housing services, as well as a community centre.

Locals pop in for a quick bite as well as people from further afield, having read the reviews and coming to check it out.

Earlier this year, the Lounge Café made headlines nationwide for becoming the No.1 restaurant on TripAdvisor in London and their most popular dish was their full English breakfast.

Who’s next?

Zina ready to serve

We were new faces, so we weren’t going to escape our welcome to the café’s family as we settled down on the end of a long shared table. It’s the kind of place where you can help make your menu selection by not just looking at what other people are eating, but asking them about their food too.

But then our server came over and told us about today’s specials. I wasn’t sure what ‘sumac’ was, but after a quick explanation (it’s a lemony floral spice, often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cookery), I opted for the home-made chicken sumac meatballs with wild rice, and my dining partner the lasagne.

The café was buzzing and our server, who turned out to be the Observer-awardwinning manager Maria Kuehn, who runs the café with friend Zina Manda, couldn’t help but tell us about the place, and how all the food is cooked from scratch, along with her healthy food philosophy that she writes about in her

THE LOUNGE CAFÉ Welford Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, HA9 9FX. Mon-Fri, 9-5.30 for breakfast, coffee, cake, lunch and afternoon tea. Saturdays, 10-3 for brunch specials; no reservation necessary

food blog www.mindingbellieswell.co.uk.

I went in there for their legendary all day breakfast fry-up, but Maria’s enthusiasm was infectious, so I ate healthy, and felt better for it.

The food was good value and tasty with our mains at about £5 each.

In reviewing a restaurant, I’d normally talk about the service, but that word is wrong here, so instead I’ve described the welcome.

Verdict

The five star TripAdvisor reviews are well earned across the board – quality, taste, price, welcome and atmosphere. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, cooked and served by people who care, the Lounge Café is for you.

If you’ve always thought about opening your own food business, Maria is going to run an advice seminar. Call her on 07990 506609 for more details.

Happy customers tuck in with Maria at the Lounge

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MY COMMUNITY

This summer… enjoy the great outdoors Summer is finally here and we’ve selected the top 10 ways to take advantage of the warm weather in Brent 1 SET SAIL AT WELSH HARP

©Photo: Teresa Hayhurst – Welsh Harp Sailing Club

Windsurfing and sailing are practically on your doorstep at the Welsh Harp Sailing Club. The club is holding taster sessions every Thursday throughout the summer open to everyone aged eight and upwards. Find out more at www.welshharpsailingclub.org

L VE WHeRe You LiVe

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BRENT LONDON BOROUGH OF CULTURE 2020 #Brent2020

BREN

LONDON BOR OF CULTURE #Brent2020

2

GET FIT FOR FREE

Get fit under the sun with My Heart Beats for Brent, the council’s campaign to encourage residents of all ages and fitness levels to be active for 30 minutes each day and live healthy, happy lives. Check out the website for parks and outdoor gyms near you: www.brent.gov.uk/ heartbeats

5

HAVE THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE AT THE COLOR RUN

A unique five kilometre fun run through Wembley Park, the Color Run celebrates healthiness, happiness and friendship – and getting covered from head to toe in a rainbow of colours in the process. You can walk, skip or dance too. See page 23 to sign up at www.thecolorrun.co.uk for discounted tickets.

8 ENJOY THE THRILLS OF BARHAM PARK ULTIMATE FUNFAIR

This June, pay a visit to this fair with plenty to do for everyone. Held in the Green Flag award winning Barham Park, the whole family can enjoy a range of rides and inflatables. Find out more at www.irvinleisure.co.uk/ funfairs/barham-parkfunfair

3

HAVE A BITE AT THE NEW ROUNDWOOD LODGE CAFÉ

Bringing fresh homemade food to Roundwood Park, the café offers a wide range of dishes to choose from as part of its ‘farm-to-table’ ethos.

You can also sign up for cooking classes. If you have an idea for what you’d like to see in the café, email roundwoodlodgecafe@gmail.com

6

PLAY SOME TENNIS AND JOIN A LOCAL LEAGUE

If you want to get back into tennis or would like to meet new people to play, why not join the Chelmsford Square Tennis League? Open to men and women of all standards, the next league will take place Thursday 19 July-Wednesday 12 September. Enter at www.localtennisleagues.com/ chelmsfordsquare by Monday 16 July.

9 WATCH A CLASSIC OR BLOCKBUSTER FILM UNDER THE STARS

The Lexi and Nomad cinemas have joined forces to present a programme of outdoor film screenings in Queen’s Park. This year’s programme will include Blade Runner, The Goonies, The Shape of Water, and Early Man. See www.whereisthenomad.com/ queens-park for more information.

4

GET SOME GARDENING TIPS AT THE GREEN CLUB

Join the Green Club every Saturday at Harlesden Town Garden and learn how to grow your own fruit and vegetables from gardening experts. Sessions are free and open to everyone, young and old.

Find out more at www. harlesdentowngarden.co.uk

7

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AT LOVE CHALKHILL FESTIVAL

A fixture in the local community after three successful years, the Love Chalkhill Festival promises to be jam packed with activities and entertainment for children and adults alike. This year’s festival on Saturday 14 July will feature stalls, food stands, fairground rides, pony rides, live music and entertainment.

10 PLANT A REGGAE TREE IN HARLESDEN

Join in the planting of a Reggae Tree and celebrate International Reggae Day on Sunday 1 July. The event aims to highlight the rich black music and reggae history of this area and the claim that Harlesden is the reggae capital of Britain.

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REGENERATION

Creating the future Start-up businesses and freelancers in creative industries are flocking to Wembley Park to take up residence in 26 new affordable spaces.

Matthew Wood of Second Floor Studios tells us more

W

e’re an arts organisation providing affordable workspace to visual artists, fine artists, crafts and designer makers that would otherwise struggle to find or be able to have a workspace within the open commercial market because the rents are just too high,” says Matthew Wood, Co-founder and Director of Second Floor Studios.

“As a sector, the affordable studio space sector, we are losing studios. This year you had 15,000 graduates coming out of art schools that need space, it’s part of their development, their career.

“Bearing in mind one in six jobs in the capital is in the creative industries, we need to understand that actually the supply of this

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type of workspace is crucial.”

“There’s a huge need for workspace in north-west London that’s been untapped”, Matthew added, “We were one hundred percent occupied before we’d even finished our build and that’s always the

‘Bearing in mind one in six jobs in the capital is in the creative industries... the supply of this type of workspace is crucial’ case with studio provision.”

As well as the new space available, Matthew also spoke of how well connected Wembley is.

Artist and mother Blair Lamar is one of Second Floor Studios’ tenants

Matthew Wood, Co-founder and Director of Second Floor Studios

“The connectivity to Wembley Park and to Wembley Central is fantastic,” he said.

“I knew that this was absolutely the right location for us.”

The studios are the result of a ‘section 106’ agreement between Brent Council and Quintain, where as part of the deal to grant planning permission to build the homes above, the council insisted that the developer creates affordable workspace on the ground floor, with Brent residents given priority for use of the space.

Artist and mother Blair Lamar is one of Second Floor Studios’ tenants.

“I recently moved to north-west London,” said Blair. “I found it really, really hard to find a good studio space that was near enough for me to take my son with me.

“I don’t drive, so having public transport and be easy with him in a pushchair is really important.

“This is at most 30 minutes away from where I live. It’s really easy to get to. I’m able to work and get the juices flowing and I’ve been able to be creative again.”

Cllr Shama Tatler, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “We’re proud that we were able to use a section 106 agreement to create affordable work spaces for artists and look forward to doing more of the same across the borough in the future.”

As for the future, Matthew is hoping to build on the studios success so far. He said: “It’s still very early days, we’ve got to evaluate the success of this first phase but we’re hoping that this project will expand.”

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MY COUNCIL

Meet the cabinet Meet the new Cabinet members at Brent Council and learn more about them, in and out of the council Cllr Muhammed Butt

Cllr Margaret McLennan

cllr.muhammed.butt@brent.gov.uk

cllr.margaret.mclennan@brent.gov.uk

What’s the most exciting thing about your Cabinet role? Seeing positive outcomes for all our residents and being able to impact and effect change across the borough.

What’s the most exciting thing about your Cabinet role?

The ability to potentially change people’s lives for the better.

Leader of the Council

Deputy Leader of the Council

What do you most want to achieve in your Cabinet role? Bringing people together and being proud of who we are – it’s our diversity that makes Brent special.

Who is your role model? I’m inspired by the generation who immigrated to the UK in the 1950s and 60s. They faced so many challenges – racism, cultural and educational barriers. They broke the mould and it’s thanks to them that I’m able to be in this position today.

What do you most like to do in your spare time?

Finding funny clips to watch on YouTube and listening to Bollywood music. I also have an interest in technology and enjoy tinkering around with computers and building my own.

Cllr Muhammed Butt

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What do you most want to achieve in your Cabinet role?

A balanced budget and achievement of our manifesto objectives and continued protection of those who are the most vulnerable.

What is the biggest challenge in your portfolio area?

Delivery of a balanced budget that will not entail long term impact on services or staff.

Who is your role model?

Cleopatra.

What do you most like to do in your spare time? I wish that I did, but when I do, going to Jazz and Choral concerts.

Cllr Margaret McLennan

Cllr Krupesh Hirani

Public Health, Culture & Leisure cllr.krupesh.hirani@brent.gov.uk

What’s the most exciting thing about your Cabinet role? Leading and overseeing the preparations for the London Borough of Culture in 2020.

What do you most want to achieve in your Cabinet role?

I want to make the London Borough of Culture year a roaring success and make sure there is a legacy beyond 2020 by establishing a Cultural Trust for Brent.

What is the biggest challenge in your portfolio area? The continuous struggle to cut down on obesity levels in the borough.

Who is your role model?

Mahatma Gandi - through perserverance and peaceful means, he was able to make a real difference.

What do you most like to do in your spare time? I am quite sporty - keeping fit, watching football, playing FIFA.

Cllr Krupesh Hirani

Cllr Shama Tatler

Regeneration, Highways & Planning cllr.shama.tatler@brent.gov.uk

What’s the most exciting thing about your Cabinet role?

To help shape Brent for the next 50 years.

What do you most want to achieve in your Cabinet role?

To help deliver more truly affordable homes.

Who is your role model? My daughter and my late husband - their courage, compassion, resilience and zest for life inspire me every day. They are my constant motivation in what I do everyday.

What do you most like to do in your spare time? As a single mum, any spare time I have usually is spent with my daughter, but apart from that probably keeping fit and spending time with friends.

Cllr Shama Tatler

MY COUNCIL Cllr Eleanor Southwood Housing & Welfare Reform

cllr.eleanor.southwood@brent.gov.uk

What’s the most exciting thing about your Cabinet role? The chance to develop genuinely affordable properties so that anyone can call Brent their home.

What do you most want to achieve in your Cabinet role? An improved experience for council tenants, both in terms of the condition of houses but also the customer service, and creating a tangible sense of community for our residents.

Who is your role model?

The late Tessa Jowell has always been an inspiration for me as a trailblazer for women in politics.

What do you most like to do in your spare time?

Currently enjoying lots of podcasts, which makes doing things like exercise a whole lot less boring.

Cllr Eleanor Southwood

Cllr Amer Agha

Schools, Employment & Skills cllr.amer.agha@brent.gov.uk

What’s the most exciting thing about your Cabinet role?

To improve skills and opportunities for meaningful employment for young people by working closely with schools and all local businesses.

What do you most want to achieve in your Cabinet role?

To make sure that everyone has the opportunity available to achieve their full potential.

Who is your role model?

Teachers are the best role models that you can have, as they are the ones who will inspire our young people to become the next leaders and business people.

What do you most like to do in your spare time? I am a family oriented person and do spend time with my family.

I also like gardening and eating out.

Cllr Amer Agha

Cllr Krupa Sheth

Cllr Harbi Farah

cllr.krupa.sheth@brent.gov.uk

cllr.harbi.farah@brent.gov.uk

What’s the most exciting thing about your Cabinet role?

The opportunity to make a difference for the people of Brent and the environment.

What’s the most exciting thing about your Cabinet role?

Celebrating the fact that more people are living longer with more complex needs, but recognising the significant challenge this creates for health and social care service and budget.

Environment

What do you most want to achieve in your Cabinet role?

To ensure that the needs of residents are met, the environment is improved, and we are getting added value from our services.

Who is your role model? I don’t have a particular role model, I draw from the great qualities of people who are making or have made a positive difference to the lives of others.

What do you most like to do in your spare time?

Exploring the city and squeeze in some time for my dance classes.

Cllr Krupa Sheth

Adult Social Care

What do you most want to achieve in your Cabinet role?

To focus on how to bring our services closer to our residents, while making sure they feel our system is ready to help, is respectful, and fair.

What do you most like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy physical exercise, playing or watching football.

Cllr Mili Patel

Children’s Safeguarding, Early Help & Social Care cllr.mili.patel@brent.gov.uk

What’s the most exciting thing about your Cabinet role? To make even a small contribution to helping Brent’s amazing and talented young people reach their potential.

What do you most want to achieve in your Cabinet role?

I will fight every day to get the best deal for all young people in Brent.

Who is your role model?

I’m in full admiration of the Grunwick Strikers. Their rights – and just as importantly, the respect – they won made a huge difference for my parents who came from Gujarat to work in Park Royal’s factories just a few years later.

What do you most like to do in your spare time?

I love going to the theatre, spending time with friends and family, and hanging out with my two cats.

Cllr Mili Patel

Cllr Harbi Farah

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MY COUNCIL

Your councillors Find out who your local councillors are and how to contact them Go to www.brent.gov.uk/councillors for individual surgery opening hours ALPERTON

Bhagwanji Chohan

James Allie

Trupti Sangani

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.bhagwanji.chohan@brent.gov.uk

cllr.james.allie@brent.gov.uk

cllr.trupti.sangani@brent.gov.uk

07920 378646

07949 733967

07464 982524

BARNHILL

Michael Pavey

Sarah Marquis

Shafique Choudhary

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.michael.pavey@brent.gov.uk

cllr.sarah.marquis@brent.gov.uk

cllr.shafique.choudhary@brent.gov.uk

07941 474261

07721 233061

07962 356570

BRONDESBURY PARK

Erica Gbajumo

Kieron Gill

Tony Ethapemi

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.erica.gbajumo@brent.gov.uk

cllr.kieron.gill@brent.gov.uk

cllr.anthony.ethapemi@brent.gov.uk

07467 004829

07467 004788

07467 000435

DOLLIS HILL

Arshad Mahmood

Liz Dixon

Parvez Ahmed

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.arshad.mahmood@brent.gov.uk

cllr.liz.dixon@brent.gov.uk

cllr.parvez.ahmed@brent.gov.uk

07944 437177

07741 298903

07572 120499

DUDDEN HILL

Aslam Choudry

Janice Long

Krupesh Hirani

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.aslam.choudry@brent.gov.uk

cllr.janice.long@brent.gov.uk

cllr.krupesh.hirani@brent.gov.uk

07958 732384

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020 8459 7435

07787 274107

FRYENT

George Crane

Shama Tatler

Vincent Lo

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.george.crane@brent.gov.uk

cllr.shama.tatler@brent.gov.uk

cllr.vincent.lo@brent.gov.uk

07747 040021

07721 233050

07464 982634

HARLESDEN

Joshua Murray

Lloyd McLeish

Mili Patel

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.joshua.murray@brent.gov.uk

cllr.lloyd.mcleish@brent.gov.uk

cllr.mili.patel@brent.gov.uk

07721 233053

07790 607149

07469 571629

KENSAL GREEN

Claudia Hector

Jumbo Chan

Matt Kelcher

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.claudia.hector@brent.gov.uk

cllr.jumbo.chan@brent.gov.uk

cllr.matt.kelcher@brent.gov.uk

07900 763812

07342 053996

07721 233051

KENTON

Michael Maurice

Reg Colwill

Suresh Kansagra

CONSERVATIVE

CONSERVATIVE

CONSERVATIVE

cllr.michael.maurice@brent.gov.uk

cllr.reg.colwill@brent.gov.uk

cllr.suresh.kansagra@brent.gov.uk

07467 012751

07900 763835

07747 131870

KILBURN

Abdirazak Abdi

Faduma Hassan

Rita Conneely

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.abdirazak.abdi@brent.gov.uk

cllr.faduma.hassan@brent.gov.uk

cllr.rita.conneely@brent.gov.uk

07467 000261

07467 000282

07721 233047

MAPESBURY

Ahmad Shahzad

Lia Colacicco

Tariq Dar

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.ahmad.shahzad@brent.gov.uk

cllr.lia.colacicco@brent.gov.uk

cllr.tariq.dar@brent.gov.uk

07721 233055

07721 233056

07467 004752

NORTHWICK PARK

Keith Perrin

Margaret McLennan

Robert Johnson

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.keith.perrin@brent.gov.uk

cllr.margaret.mclennan@brent.gov.uk

cllr.robert.johnson@brent.gov.uk

07711 561848

07949 398193

07876 138676

PRESTON

Anita Thakkar

Daniel Kennelly

Ihtesham Afzal

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.anita.thakkar@brent.gov.uk

cllr.daniel.kennelly@brent.gov.uk

cllr.ihtesham.afzal@brent.gov.uk

07825 073467

07467 000253

07464 982529

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MY COUNCIL QUEENS PARK

Eleanor Southwood

James Denselow

Neil Nerva

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.eleanor.southwood@brent.gov.uk

cllr.james.denselow@brent.gov.uk

cllr.neil.nerva@brent.gov.uk

07721 233046

07932 607711

07721 233057

QUEENSBURY

Kana Naheerathan

Rameshchandra Patel

Sandra Kabir

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.kana.naheerathan@brent.gov.uk

cllr.rameshchandra.patel@brent.gov.uk

cllr.sandra.kabir@brent.gov.uk

07920 378688

07985 477839

07949 161240

STONEBRIDGE

Abdi Aden

Ernest Ezeajughi

Promise Knight

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.abdifatah.aden@brent.gov.uk

cllr.ernest.ezeajughi@brent.gov.uk

cllr.promise.knight@brent.gov.uk

07747 201304

07721 233044

07467 000266

SUDBURY

Mary Daly

Saqib Butt

Thomas Stephens

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.mary.daly@brent.gov.uk

cllr.saqib.butt@brent.gov.uk

cllr.thomas.stephens@brent.gov.uk

07747 008741

07467 000185

07770 678714

TOKYNGTON

Ketan Sheth

Muhammed Butt

Orleen Hylton

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.ketan.sheth@brent.gov.uk

cllr.muhammed.butt@brent.gov.uk

cllr.orleen.hylton@brent.gov.uk

07920 378720

07867 169879

07721 233040

WELSH HARP

Amer Agha

Harbi Farah

Roxanne Mashari

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.amer.agha@brent.gov.uk

cllr.harbi.farah@brent.gov.uk

cllr.roxanne.mashari@brent.gov.uk

07721 232963

07721 232965

07972 604747

WEMBLEY CENTRAL

Krupa Sheth

Luke Patterson

Wilhelmina Mitchell

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

cllr.krupa.sheth@brent.gov.uk

cllr.luke.patterson@brent.gov.uk

cllr.wilhelmina.mitchellmurray @brent.gov.uk

07551 137453

07467 000195

WILLESDEN GREEN Vacancies – election to be held in Willesden Green Ward on Thursday 21 June 2018.

Visit www.brent.gov.uk for more information.

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07974 190849

MY COMMUNITY

With work on White Hart Lane due to finish this summer, Tottenham Hotspur will be leaving Wembley.

Club ambassador Gary Mabbutt talks about Spurs’ time in Brent

Gary Mabbutt: Spurs’ time at Wembley has been a great success

Thank you, Brent

F “

or me it’s been a phenomenal season,” said the former Tottenham and England defender, Gary Mabbutt.

“There were always going to be challenges playing all of our games at a temporary stadium, but as far as what we achieved this year, in the Premier League coming third in the table, getting a Champions League spot - there were some unbelievable highlights this year.

“The league games against Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, were fantastic games with outstanding performances.

Then, in the Champions League, the game against Real Madrid here is something which will stick in many fans memories for a long, long time. We totally outplayed them.

“And of course, the last game of the

season, a nine-goal thriller against Leicester. It was an all-out attacking game which the fans love and I think it was a great final game of the season.”

Spurs have been equally prolific off the pitch this season, working with the local community that welcomed the temporarily homeless Premier League side to the borough.

“Being our temporary home for the year, the club was totally committed to liaising with Brent Council and working with the community.

“Throughout the year, a number of different projects have taken place and I’ve been involved in the schools projects, doing PE lessons, and we’ve had a fantastic jobs fair at Wembley Stadium twice now over the last two years.

“I was here in Wembley recently doing a

big tidy up campaign with all the volunteers, going around picking up litter.

“Throughout this season, 3,000 tickets per game have been given out to local residents, and of course the wellbeing campaign will be maintained, and we’ll keep in touch with local networks regarding job opportunities.

“People in Brent will be able to apply for jobs in our new stadium and we have a lot of external suppliers as well, so hopefully a friendship has been made, it’s been strong and hopefully it will continue.

“From our perspective, it was always a case of wanting to make a difference, and I think despite all the challenges coming here, what made it so much easier, was the way in which we were welcomed by the community. It has been a great relationship and hopefully an ongoing relationship.”

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MY COMMUNITY

Not too young to care More than 3,000 young carers in Brent are facing adult-sized responsibilities. Who is caring for them?

T

here are at least 3,243 carers under 18 in the borough who provide essential and ongoing care and emotional support to a family member who is physically or mentally ill, disabled, or misuses substances. Some of these carers are as young as five.

The caring role they carry out means they have unique experiences and demands that affect their childhood and how they achieve at school.

In Kensal Green, nine-year-old Simeon Charles-Brown helps to look after his grandma who is 89 years old and has Alzheimer’s disease. Simeon was registered with the Brent Carers Centre at the age of

six. He was seven years old when his mum told him he was a young carer. Before then, he didn’t know there was such a thing as a young carer.

“Some of my friends know I’m a young carer,” says Simeon, “but I don’t tell everyone because not everyone may be as interested.”

Simeon says looking after grandma can be stressful sometimes but he likes spending time with her and keeping her company. He also likes what he gets out of the Brent Carers Centre, such as the parties and trips they offer young carers so that they are not overwhelmed by their caring responsibilities.

“I have fun with my friends at school but sometimes it’s nice to meet other carers at

‘I have fun with my friends but sometimes it’s nice to meet other carers at the trips, to talk with other people who feel the same.’

Proud mum Deon with Simeon, age 9

the trips, to talk with other people who feel the same as me.”

Simeon’s mum, Deon, says: “There’s a part of me that feels guilty that my child’s life has been taken over by his caring role.

I’m really lucky that Simeon is a patient child, and very homely.”

It is estimated that hundreds of young carers often go unidentified because they feel embarrassed or ashamed of their role. Or, they simply don’t realise that they are a young carer.

Cabinet Member for Children’s Safeguarding, Early Help and Social Care, Cllr Mili Patel, says: “For many young people, particularly those who are unidentified, caring can lead to a significant and long-term negative impact on their physical and mental health. They can feel tired and under pressure, as well as become stressed, anxious and depressed. We need to help young carers in Brent recognise they are a carer so that they can get all the help they are entitled to.”

In Brent, the council and partners from a variety of agencies work together to deliver a range of advice and support for the whole family.

If you think you are a young carer or you are a parent whose children help care for someone, call Brent Family Front Door on 020 8937 4300 or the Brent Carers Centre on 020 3802 7070 for more information.

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MY COMMUNITY

Simeon started being a carer for his grandma at six years old

JOBS & SKILLS

Job SEARCHers

Young people with special educational needs and disabilities are gaining the skills and confidence needed for the world of work thanks to a supported internship scheme

P

roject SEARCH is a unique supported internship programme for 16-24 year olds with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Seven students from Brent are currently in the programme doing their final work placement in various roles and departments at Charing Cross Hospital.

Coordinated by the College of North West London (CNWL) in partnership with Brent Council, the goal of the programme is to help the students to gain the skills and attitudes they need to get meaningful paid jobs.

Students get real-life work experience working with colleagues and dealing with customers while learning Maths, English and ICT. As well as gaining the essential skills and qualities employers look for, the interns also benefit from the opportunity to be more independent, gain confidence, and develop their communication and interpersonal skills.

SEARCH 2017 graduates after a year-long internship

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Throughout their internship, and until they are ready to look for work, the students are supervised by the Supported Internship team, which includes a tutor, mentor and job coach.

Cllr Mili Patel, Cabinet Member for Children’s Safeguarding, Early Help and Social Care, said: “Project SEARCH is an excellent opportunity for young adults with learning difficulties to make that crucial transition from classroom to workplace and future-proof their careers. I’m pleased that the programme is helping to shape a diverse and inclusive workplace in Brent and beyond.”

Former interns Maulika Amin, 23 from Wembley, and Sean Colbert, 25 from Neasden are now working with employer, Sodexo at Charing Cross Hospital since they graduated from the programme last year. Both are proud of being at work and in paid jobs that they truly enjoy.

Anthony Jacob, 24 from Willesden, one of the current interns, is enjoying his placement but feels he is job ready.

Maulika spent three terms in busy wards as a Hostess and Domestic Assistant

“While I was on the Supported Internship I learnt all about being professional, infection control, health and safety, food safety and how to work with patients. I am now employed as a ward host at Charing Cross Hospital, serving patients and preparing food. I love my job and I am earning my own wages. This has helped me become more independent.”

When not working, Anthony often checks in on his colleagues to make sure everything’s ok

“When I started my internship, I was nervous and shy, but now I’m confident to help visitors and patients at the hospital when they need help. I like my work placement as linen porter with Synergy Charing Cross Hospital because my colleagues are just like family to me.”

“

Project SEARCH is a fantastic programme to get involved with.

When joining the project the first year requires a lot of time to Edith Wilson implement the programme but it is well worth the effort and once roles are in place it is easy to manage. Roles which can be easily divided into parts are more beneficial to the interns in terms of learning. It is also essential that you have a team of mentors who are trained and confident to help work with and encourage the interns. Over the last three years, we have been able to recruit a number of the interns from the programme, and we have achieved this by acknowledging areas which needed improving and building on areas such as ensuring we have a team of mentors who are engaged in the programme.

One student who has been with Sodexo for about a year has become a valued member of our patient dining team. She is respected by her colleagues and is liked by the patients and clinical team. She clearly enjoys her work and displays our values every day.

It is incredibly rewarding to see interns, who are often very shy at the start, blossom into confident, hard-working young people who become valued members of the team.

“

Sean won an achievement award at his college and hopes to work for the Royal Mail next time

“I was well supported by the Supported Internship team and my mentor in my work place. I have learnt different work skills and how to be professional. I am proud that I now work as a porter in the post-room at Charing Cross Hospital. It’s the best job for me, it really suits me a lot.”

Edith Wilson Learning & Development Manager (Sodexo), Imperial College Healthcare

Could you employ a Project SEARCH intern?

To find out more contact Anisha Rehman, Job Coach, at anisa.rehman@kaleido-scope.uk SUMMER 2018

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020 3535 2555 therise.london

1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments coming to Alperton this summer

BRENT OUTDOOR MEDIA INITIATIVE Promote your business to 3 million people in Brent.

Brent Council’s outdoor media initiate is providing locally based businesses with a unique opportunity to feature across a portfolio of council-owned roundabouts, lamppost banners and welcome signs on Brent’s busiest arterial roads, tube station entrances and surrounding Wembley Stadium.

Each sponsor will be exclusively showcased across their chosen advertising platform over a 4 to 52 week campaign campaign. The advertising space can be utilised to promote your business and your products or services to engage with significant local audiences and grow your customer base.

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“We are delighted with the response we have received so far.

Local advertising has really helped us to increase our presence in the area and stand out from our competition” - Mischa & Co

BUSINESS

Happy holistic birthday Local entrepreneur Fatema Paretha is working to make a big difference in the world, one birthday party at a time

E

nvironmentally conscious Fatema Paretha, from Wembley, is revolutionising the way birthdays are celebrated with her ‘Holistic Happy Birthdays’.

“This is a different kind of birthday party,” says Fatema, “one that doesn’t involve piles of plastic; one that instead helps the environment; one that breaks the mould of regular birthday parties and introduces an entirely new way to celebrate.”

A mum of three young girls, Fatema, 40, was inspired to find a better way to celebrate birthdays in a more meaningful way.

Fatema explains: “The activities in my party are all designed to help children think about protecting the environment, teaching them useful skills such as upcycling objects and how to be more responsible in the way we use our resources.

All in a fun and engaging way.”

Children enjoying a holistic birthday party

Targeted at children from six years old, Fatema, who is also an experienced primary school teacher, is convinced that this is a good age for children to do the activities as they are so much more aware about the issues surrounding the environment.

Since the business launched in April, the response has been very positive. Fatema already has bookings for the next few months and even people who don’t have children love the concept and are behind the idea.

Fatema has partnered with OnlyEggless cakes that provide fresh egg-free cake free from the preservatives and nasties you find in an average birthday cake, and with SavingOurPlanet.net charity’s N0CO2 project which can plant trees on children’s behalf.

From September, Fatema plans to offer local schools ‘Mini Masterclass workshops’ in a range of holistic areas such as essential oils, ayurveda and superfoods, and have an ‘eco shop’ on her website offering biodegradable tableware supplies and eco-friendly decorations.

Asked what success might look like for her, Fatema says it would be having the eco-friendly concept in her business become the norm when it comes to celebrating birthdays.

“I want other businesses who are currently in the birthday party business to take a look at our model at Holistic Happy Birthdays and emulate what we are doing for the environment and for the child.”

To learn more about Fatema’s business, visit www.holistichappybirthdays.com.

Fatema’s parties help to protect the environment

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Ronald in the commentary box at the 2016 Rio Olympics Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko fight it out at Wembley in 2017

Ronald accepting a trophy as a schoolboy amateur boxer

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MY COMMUNITY

IN YOUR CORNER

schko

I

The Brent Magazine caught up with Wembley resident and award-winning sports broadcaster Ronald McIntosh about commentating and reporting on major sports events for international broadcasters

n April 2017, Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko battled for the heavyweight championship of the world in front of 90,000 spectators at Wembley Stadium. Ronald was sat ringside providing blow-byblow commentary for BBC Radio Five Live. It was the latest in a long line of commentaries having taken viewers through five Olympic Games for BBC television, including all 275 boxing matches at Rio 2016.

“It was an incredible night,” reflects Ronald. “I was at Wembley Stadium when Carl Froch defeated George Groves in front of 80,000 fans in 2014 and this was an even bigger event. I anticipated a good bout, given the credentials of both Joshua and Klitschko, but what transpired surpassed my wildest expectations.”

Ronald’s radio commentary did the fight justice, transporting the listener ringside and conveying the drama of what was occurring just inches away from his face. In the Sports Journalists’ Association Awards, Ronald collected the award won by BBC Five Live after their coverage won in the Best Radio Sport Live Broadcast category.

“It’s really nice to be associated with such a memorable bout in some small way,” says Ronald.

Since that momentous night, Ronald has commentated on sporting events live from Uzbekistan, Honduras, Latvia, Russia and Serbia, along with several competitions in Germany and here in the UK, such as the 2017 World

Athletics Championships in London, 2018 World Indoor Athletics Championships in Birmingham and George Groves v ersus Chris Eubank Jr in Manchester.

Ronald is a Trustee of the charity “Fight for Peace”, which uses boxing, mixed martial arts and education to positively impact young people at risk of being affected by crime and violence.

When not on the road, Ronald is also a regular at Stonebridge Boxing Club where he was a founding member.

He plays an integral role in the club’s efforts to mentor, motivate and inspire their members in all of their endeavours, not just in boxing. “The members at Stonebridge Boxing Club – and the same can be said for the patrons at Fight for Peace and elsewhere – are incredibly passionate about their training, development and progress,” says Ronald.

“We gently point out to them that those same qualities of eagerness, optimism and zeal can be used in other areas of their lives, and can be the foundation to build something brilliant in line with their dreams”.

Ronald concludes: “My job as a commentator sees me sitting in commentary booths for long periods of time, so I relish the opportunity to move and be active whenever I can. Stonebridge Boxing Club is a great place to do that.

It’s buzzing at the moment, really welcoming, and reflects Brent in all its diversity.”

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BRENT LONDON BOROUGH OF CULTURE 2020 #Brent2020

ARTS & CULTURE

BRENT

LONDON BOROUGH OF CULTURE 2020 #Brent2020

Ticket to ride

To celebrate the 70th anniversary of the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush, Brent is paying tribute to the Windrush generation with an exhibition and series of themed events this summer

‘

W

indrush 70 – Brent’s pioneering Windrush Generation’ will explore Brent’s Caribbean heritage through local residents’ stories, portrait photographs, and an installation of a traditional West Indian ‘front room’.

Zerritha Brown, Cultural Operations Manager at Brent Council, explained why the project is significant.

“It is important to mark the 70th anniversary, particularly as Brent has a large Caribbean community. The Caribbean influence is evident across modern culture but the story of Windrush is still not widely known. I wanted the exhibition to provide a platform to showcase their stories, to provide a voice for the unheard.”

Named after the ship, HMT Empire Windrush, which arrived at the Tilbury docks on 22 June 1948 from the Caribbean, the Windrush generation were invited to come to Britain to help with the post-war reconstruction.

“There were a lot of accounts of struggle and hardship,” adds Kyron Greenwood, exhibition producer. “Many people coming to Brent from the Caribbean faced racism here and difficulty in finding accommodation. But there were also positive stories, some of the struggles faced helped ignite a stronger sense of unity among Caribbean people and they were happy to have seen so much progress during their years in Britain.”

Taking part in the project was 97-year-old Reverend Norman Watson Mitchell MBE, who came to Britain from Jamaica in 1955 to work as a glass quality control inspector.

He moved to Harlesden in 1957 where his family joined him – including his daughter Liz Mitchell, who would go on to become an acclaimed reggae singer and member of Boney M. He still lives in Harlesden today and was awarded an MBE for Community Work and Service in 2014.

‘Windrush 70 – Brent’s pioneering Windrush Generation’ runs from 21 June–29 October at the Willesden Green library.

Jamaicans disembarking the HMT Empire Windrush in 1948

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Arts & Culture

>> Theatre >> Music >> Dance >> Comedy >> Exhibitions >> Cinema >> Talks >> Tours

JUNE-JULY

A.R.P. – WEMBLEY’S AIR RAID WARDENS IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR

Somalis in WWI

UNTIL 23 JULY SOMALI ADVICE AND FORUM OF INFORMATION DISPLAY

Collection of interviews, photos and objects exploring the involvement of Somalis in the First World War. Created by SAAFI community organisation, Brent Museums and Archives and The Somaliland Scouts Association.

Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and others. Brent Civic Centre. 9am-8pm Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday and Sunday. Free.

MONDAYS UNTIL END OF JULY LEXI FILM SCHOOL

Films specially chosen to inform and provoke debate, including a live introduction and notes.

The Lexi Cinema. 6.30pm. £8.

Box Office: 020 3011 5523.

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Exhibition about the 2,500 Wembley men and women who worked during WW2 to help protect their neighbours from German air raids. Kingsbury Library. 10am-8pm Monday and Thursday, 10am-6pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday, 12noon-5pm Sunday. Free.

JUNE-AUGUST GENERATIONS OF LEARNING

Community Wall Display exploring the unique heritage of Pakistani and Irish communities in Cricklewood collected through Heritage Lottery Funded oral history project with Ashford Place.

The Library at Willesden Green.

Ratcatcher at the Lexi

9am-8pm Monday to Friday, 10am5pm Saturday and Sunday. Free.

SUNDAYS EALING ROAD FILM CLUB Films include Beauty and the Beast, Lego Batman, Captain Underpants, Coco, Paw Patrol and Paddington 2. Ealing Road Library.

1-3pm. Free.

FRIDAY 8 JUNE OPEN STUDIO WITH CNWL ARTS IN HEALTH

Explore your inner artist, handling objects available from the museum’s collection for you to draw inspiration from. The Library at Willesden Green. 2-4.30pm.

Free.

CNWL ARTS IN HEALTH – LEARN AND SHARE EVENT

A networking get-together discussing all the arts in health projects in Westminster, Brent and Kensington and Chelsea.

The Library at Willesden Green.

5-6.30pm. Free.

at Willesden Green.

Doors 7.30pm/ Showtime 8pm.

Tickets £12 in advance (+booking fee) and £15 on the door. Book via www.brent.gov.uk/ events.

SATURDAY 9 JUNE ROMANIANS LOVE BOOKS: IN CONVERSATION WITH SIMONA ANTONESCU

Author event with bestselling Romanian author Simona Antonescu who will be discussing her new novel Hanul lui Manuc.

Wembley Library.

1-3pm.

Free.

COME MEK WE LARF: WINDRUSH COMEDY SPECIAL

Featuring: Queen of Comedy Felicity Ethnic, The Prophet of Comedy - Kwaku, the Original Nutter of Comedy Annette Fagan, Funmbi Omotayo and hosted by Mr. Cee. The Library

Lego Batman at the Ealing Road Film Club

at the ilm Club

ARTS & CULTURE

MONDAY 11 JUNE

SATURDAY THURSDAY 16, 23, 30 21 JUNE JUNE BRENT MUSIC SERVICES CONCERT coincide with the national AND 7 Tocelebration of ‘Make Music Day JULY UK’, Brent Music Services’ Junior

BOOKSTART BIRD BOOGIE!

Celebrate National Bookstart Week with a story and rhyme time inspired

by Lucy Cousins’ A Busy Day for Birds.

Plus special guest the Bookstart Bear! Suitable for ages 0-4yrs. Kingsbury Library.

10.30 -11am. Free.

SATURDAY 16 JUNE SOMALI ADVICE DISPLAY LAUNCH EVENT

Official launch event for this display exploring the involvement of Somalis in the First World War. All welcome to attend. Brent Civic Centre.

2-4pm.

Free.

TELLING TALES

Discover 6-week Saturday creative writing and art course for children aged 7-11 with poet, emcee, and theatre maker Simon Mole. This programme is funded

by John Lyon’s Charity. Book your place in advance at the library.

Kingsbury Library. 11am-1pm. Free.

Simona Antonescu

MONDAY 18 AND WEDNESDAY 20 JUNE CITY OF STORIES: CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOPS FOR ADULTS

Two short story workshops led by an experienced writer-facilitator Jarred McGinnis. City of Stories is an Association of London Chief Librarians (ALCL) project run in partnership with Spread the Word and funded through Arts Council England. The Library at Willesden Green. 6-8pm.

Free. Book your place at www.spreadtheword.org.uk.

Choir South will be putting on a special concert at Kilburn Library.

The programme will consist of pieces worked on this term by the 21-piece choir, which is made up of Brent Pupils between the ages of 7 and 9. Kilburn Library.

BRENT BRENT LONDON BOROUGH LONDON BOROUGH 5.45-6.15pm.

Free.

OF CULTURE 2020 OF CULTURE 2020 #Brent2020

21 JUNE1 OCTOBER BRENT’S PIONEERING WINDRUSH GENERATION

#Brent2020

Exhibition exploring Brent’s Caribbean heritage with portrait photographs. Experience a traditional West Indian ‘front room’ with installation highlighting items from the local community and Brent Museum. The Library at Willesden Green. 9am-8pm Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday and Sunday. Free.

VENUES Ace Cafe Ace Corner, North Circular road, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD 020 8961 1000, www.london.acecafe.com

Brent Civic Centre Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ

Harlesden Library Plus Craven Park Road, Harlesden NW10 8SE

Kingsbury Library 522-524 Kingsbury Road, Kingsbury NW9 9HE

Kilburn Library 42 Salusbury Road, Kilburn NW6 6NN

Lexi Cinema 194B Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3JU 020 3011 5523, www. thelexicinema.co.uk

The Library at Willesden Green 95 High Road, Willesden, London NW10 2SF. 020 8937 3400, www.brent.gov.uk/lwg

Tricycle Theatre 269 Kilburn High Rd, London NW6 7JR 020 7328 1000, www.tricycle.co.uk

Wembley Library Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ

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SATURDAY 23 JUNE WINDRUSH 70 ANNIVERSARY EVENT

Rastamouse

Event featuring live music, dance performance and song to celebrate the anniversary of the arrival of Empire Windrush and its legacy in Brent.

The Library at Willesden Green. 12noon-4pm. Free.

THURSDAY 28 JUNE

SATURDAY 7 JULY

CAINE PRIZE FOR AFRICAN WRITING

CODERDOJO CLUB

In conversation with the shortlisted authors. Organised in partnership with Digitalback Books and the Caine Prize. The Library at Willesden Green.

6.30-7.30pm. Free but advanced booking essential. Book at www.brent.gov.uk/events.

SATURDAY 14 JULY

SATURDAY 28 JULY SUMMER READING CHALLENGE 2018 LAUNCH

Engaging, interactive, rib tickling funny poetry and drama fun with local author Michael De Souza.

Space limited so arrive early.

Ealing Road Library.

2.30-4pm. Free.

STADIUM EVENTS SATURDAY 9 JUNE Capital Summertime Ball THURSDAY 14– SUNDAY 17 JUNE Ed Sheeran FRIDAY 22SATURDAY 23 JUNE Taylor Swift SUNDAY 5 AUGUST FA Community Shield SATURDAY 25 AUGUST Challenge Cup Final For more information visit www.wembleystadium.com

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Learn how to build a website, create an app or a game, and explore technology in an informal, creative, and social environment.

Reserve your place at the library now as space is limited. For young people aged 9-13. Wembley Library. 2-3.30pm. Free.

READING AHEAD CELEBRATION CEREMONY

FRIDAY 29 JUNE FRANKENSTEIN

As part of Queens Park Book Festival, this definitive film version of Frankenstein includes a live Q&A after with Frankenstein expert, author John Sutherland.

The Lexi Cinema. 7pm. £11.50. Box Office: 020 3011 5523.

THURSDAY 5 JULY MAGGIE THE DRAGON SNAP HAPPY HEALTHY TEETH WORKSHOP Join Maggie the Dragon and find out how she keeps her breath, teeth and mouth fresh by brushing. Ealing Road Library.

11.15am-12noon. For children 0-5.

CURATOR AND ARTIST TALK

Performance Space Q&A with Shasti Lowston and Nadia Nervo exploring the development of the Windrush exhibition. The Library at Willesden Green.

6.30-7.30pm. Free.

Nadia nervo

Registration 10.30-11.45am.

The Library at Willesden Green.

12noon-1.30pm. Free.

FRIDAY 27 JULY BLADE RUNNER (1982)

The Lexi and the Nomad present this outdoor screening in Queens Park. Adapted from Philip K. Dick’s novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, Ridley Scott’s iconic dystopian classic is unquestionably one of the greatest sci-fi films ever made. Queens Park. Doors 7pm.

Screening 8.15pm. £12-£14. www.whereisthenomad.com/ queens-park.

of the People Act. Brent Civic Centre.

9am-8pm Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday and Sunday.

Free.

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE 2018!

The theme this year is Mischief Makers, inspired by the muchloved iconic Beano, which celebrates its 80th anniversary.

Children will explore a map of Beanotown to solve clues, find the mysterious buried treasure, and become ultimate mischief makers! Children aged 4 to 12 can sign up at the Brent Library from 1 July. All libraries. Free.

WEDNESDAYS 1 AND 22 AUGUST BADGE MAKING

Create and colour a badge, inspired by the Windrush exhibition. The Library at Willesden Green. 2–4pm. Free.

BRENT LONDON BOROUGH

SATURDAY 28 JULY

OF CULTURE 2020 #Brent2020

EARLY MAN (2018)

The Lexi and the Nomad present this outdoor screening in Queens Park. Aardman’s gentle claymation celebration of ‘plasticine-era’ life and football! Queens Park. Doors 7pm/Screening 8.15pm. £7.50- £14. www.whereisthenomad.com/ queens-park.

AUGUSTSEPTEMBER 2018 CELEBRATION SUFFRAGETTE BANNERS

Community Wall - Inspired by suffragettes such as local woman, Mary Blake, young people from Convent of Jesus and Mary Language College created this exhibition to commemorate the centenary of the Representation

A comic fun workshop

THURSDAY 2 AUGUST MISCHIEF MAKERS’ COMIC FUN WORKSHOP

For ages 8 – 11. Kingsbury Library.

2.30-4pm. Free.

MAKE MISCHIEF WITH POTTERY!

For children aged 8 -11. Book in advance at the library. The Library at Willesden Green. 2.30-4pm. Free.

BREN

LONDON BO OF CULTUR #Brent202

ARTS & CULTURE FRIDAY 17 AUGUST CREATIVE PASSPORT

WEDNESDAY 8 AUGUST Outdoor cinema in Queen’s Park

MONDAY 6 AUGUST DISCOVER THE HIGH SEAS – WINDRUSH 70

Family craft. Learn about the arrival of the Empire Windrush and create your own Caribbean marine creature from the deep.

Harlesden Library Plus. 2-4pm. Free.

Windrush 70 anniversary

DENNIS AND THE CHAMBER OF MISCHIEF

Join John Kirk on a fun packed, fantastical adventure with some of your favourite Beano characters. Storytelling session suitable for families with children age 6+. Ealing Road Library.

11.30am-12.30pm. Free.

TUESDAY 14 AUGUST KILBURN GARDEN PARTY: MISCHIEF MAKERS’ EXTRAVAGANZA! An exciting range of fun activities for children aged 5-11.. Kilburn Library. 2-5pm. Free.

WEDNESDAY 15 AUGUST MISCHIEF MAKERS’ ROBOTICS WORKSHOP

Children will learn how to build and program robots from scratch!

For ages 8-11. Ealing Road Library.

2.30-4pm. Free but advanced booking essential. Book at www.brent.gov.uk/events.

EXPLORE LEARNING – TELLING THE TIME

Helping children tackle the challenge of the big and little hand. For ages 5-7. Harlesden Library Plus. 10.30-11.30am.

Free. 020 8432 7130.

6 AUGUST-28 SEPTEMBER CNWL ARTS IN HEALTH

An exhibition of art work produced by NHS patients inspired by pieces in the Wellcome Collection and Brent Museum and Archives. The Library at Willesden Green. 9am8pm Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday and Sunday. Free.

MOTLEY ZOO OF MISCHIEVOUS ANIMALS!

Live animal roadshow from ZooLab. Harlesden Library Plus.

2.30-3.30pm. Free but advanced booking essential. Book at www.brent.gov.uk/events.

THURSDAY 16 AUGUST WEIRD AND WONDERFUL CITY OF MISCHIEF

Craft activity for children aged 8-11.

Kingsbury Library. 2.30-4pm. Free.

Education Room Family craft.

Learn about those who travelled to the UK on the Empire Windrush and create a colourful passport to tell those stories.. The Library at Willesden Green.

2–4pm. Free.

WEDNESDAY 22 AUGUST EXPLORE LEARNING WORKSHOP A SEAT AT THE KING’S THRONE

We travel back to medieval times and children will joust their way through many grammar and punctuation tournaments. For ages 9-11. Ealing Road Library.

12noon-1.30pm. Free. Book in advance on 0203 770 7063 or wembley@explorelearning.co.uk.

THURSDAY 23 AUGUST KILBURN LIBRARY GARDEN: PLANT A SEED

Plant a seed and see it grow over the year in the Library Garden, plus participate in craft activity for children 5+. Kilburn Library.

2.30-3.30pm. Free.

>> Theatre >> Music >> Dance >> Comedy >> Exhibitions >> Cinema >> Talks >> Tours THE GOONIES (1985)

The Lexi and the Nomad present this outdoor screening in Queens Park. Heart-warming 80’s nostalgia, suitable for all ages. Queens Park. Doors 7pm/ screening 8.15pm. £7.50-£14. www.whereisthenomad.com/ queens-park.

SATURDAY 1 SEPTEMBER SUMMER READING CHALLENGE CELEBRATION!

Prize giving plus author Gareth P Jones with big fun story performance, jokes, songs and more!.

Wembley Library. 2.30-4pm. Free.

Zoolab animal roadshow

SATURDAY 8 SEPTEMBER THE SHAPE OF WATER

The Lexi and the Nomad present this outdoor screening in Queens Park. This elegant sci-fi evocation of 1950s ‘B’ movies dominated the awards this year. Queens Park.

Doors 7pm/screening 8.15pm. £12-£14. www.whereisthenomad. com/queens-park.

TUESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER CARIBBEAN CONNECTIONS

Listen to multiple award winning poet Hannah Lowe discuss Caribbean immigration and what it means to be British. The Library at Willesden Green. 6.30-7.30pm. Free.

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ARTS & CULTURE

What’s On CREATIVE COOKING AND NUTRITION PROGRAMME WITH THE BITE ME CORNER TEAM

CHILDREN STEM CLUB

Fun learning workshops for children aged 8-11 in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Space limited so reserve your place at the library.

Ealing Road Library, Coronet Parade, Ealing Road, Middlesex, HA0 4BA. Wednesday 27 June, Wednesday 25 July. 4-5.30pm.

LONDON YOUTH ROWING

Enjoy the joys of indoor rowing and get the opportunity to get active! Yellow Pavilion, Wembley Retail Park, Engineers Way, HA9 0EG. Mondays. 4.305.30pm. Free. lfarquharson@ londonyouthrowing.com

SEWING HANDS

The perfect class for little hands to get creative. From basic sewing techniques and pattern-making to imaginative design. Yellow Pavilion, Wembley Retail Park, Engineers Way, HA9 0EG. Tuesdays. 4-5pm. £5. Naomi - 07424 206261

Get your little ones creative with cooking and join the team from Bite Me Corner to learn all about nutrition, cooking and most importantly tasting!

Yellow Pavilion, Wembley Retail Park, Engineers Way, HA9 0EG. Thursdays. 4-6pm. £8. contact@ thebitemecorner.co.uk

COMMUNITY KINGSBURY DEMENTIA CAFÉ

Weekly event for people living with dementia and their carers.

Elder’s Voice Dementia Cafe, Father O’Callaghan Hall, St Sebastian and St Pancras R.C. Church, Hay Lane, Kingsbury Green NW9 0NG. Wednesdays. 2-4pm. 020 8968 8170 or email lynnb@eldersvoice.org.uk

CRICKLEWOOD DEMENTIA CAFÉ

Weekly event for people that are living with dementia and their carers. Ashford Place, 60 Ashford Road, Cricklewood. London NW2 6TU. Tuesdays. 2-4pm.

FOSTERING AND ADOPTION INFORMATION EVENINGS

Presented in a very relaxed atmosphere, you will be given the opportunity to talk to a member of staff and find out more about

>> Your guide to what’s on

the adoption and fostering process. Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ. 7 June 2018, 5.45-8.30pm.

CUSTOMER SERVICES SESSION

Come and speak to us at Ealing Road Library. Ealing Road Library, Coronet Parade, Ealing Road, Middlesex, HA0 4BA. Thursdays.

10am-12.30pm.

BARHAM PARK ULTIMATE FUNFAIR

Come and enjoy all the thrills and spills of Barham Park’s Ultimate Funfair. Harrow Road, Wembley.

Friday 8 - Sunday 17 June, Wednesday 22 August-Sunday 2 September. 2-11pm. £1 entrance fee. info@irvinleisure.com

ROE GREEN ULTIMATE FUNFAIR

Come and enjoy all the thrills and spills of Roe Green’s Ultimate Funfair!. Roe Green, Kingsbury.

Wednesday 18-Sunday 22 July.

1-11pm. £1 entrance fee. info@ irvinleisure.co.uk

POTTERY CLASSES FOR ALL ABILITIES AT KINSGBURY

Regent Skills Training,Pottery classes suitable for all abilities, from students new to ceramics, to those more experienced wishing to develop skills. Masons House, 13 Valley Drive, Kingsbury.

Classes Monday-Friday. info@ regentskillstraining.com

STONE CARVING CLASSES AT KINGSBURY

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NORTH WEST LONDON WOMENS INSTITUTE

Local branch of the National Federation of Womens Institutes, a group of women with wide ranging interests, who meet regularly for socialising and an interesting talk or activity. Upstairs at:The Masons Arms, 665 Harrow Road, Kensal Green, London.

Second Wednesday of the month.

7.30-9.30pm. Guests £5, first meeting is free. Full membership £41. nwlondonwi@gmail.com

DEMENTIA CAFE@CITY MISSION HUB

A social space for people with dementia and memory loss and their carers to relax, socialise, do activities and get support.

Refreshments & lunch available.

City Mission Hub, 2 Scrubs Lane, London NW10 6RB. Mondays.

10.30am-1.30pm. 07939 997 677. dementiaproject.cmh@outlook.com

This course aims to stimulate an engagement with the historic practice of stone carving and will cover the wide range of skills required to become a competent stone carver. Masons House, 13 Valley Drive, Kingsbury.

Thursdays. 9.45am12.45pm, 1.15-4.15pm. info@ regentskillstraining.com

COMMUNITY ARTS, CRAFT & CULTURE FAIR

DEMENTIA CAFE WILLESDEN SPORTS CENTRE

The Festival will feature a fantastic mixture of fun and games, community and partners’ information stalls, world food,

A place for people with dementia and their carers to

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relax, socialise, do activities and get support. All ages are welcome.

Willesden Sports Centre, Donnington Road, Willesden, London NW10 3QX. Tuesdays. 1-3pm.

HPAwillesden@1life.co.uk

This year’s Craft Fair will feature some 20 exhibitors displaying their unique range of arts, crafts, accessories, therapies, foods, books, fashion and much more.

The Library at Willesden Green, 95 High Road, Willesden Green.

Sunday 8 July. 11am-4.30pm. cacandc@gmail.com

HEART OF WEMBLEY FESTIVAL

ARTS & CULTURE

at’s on in Brent during Summer 2018

jewellery and craft stalls, music, comedy, and performances from both professionals and local talent. St Johns Road, off High Road Wembley.

Saturday 7 July. 1-6pm. www. wembleyfutures.co.uk

CREATIVE COFFEE MORNINGS

Socialise with coffee and learn some new skills, including card making, jewellery design, glass painting and much more.

Yellow Pavilion, Wembley Retail Park, Engineers Way, HA9 0EG. Mondays. 10-12pm. £3.50. Jayshree - 07799 143 000

GARDENING GREEN CLUB @ HARLESDEN TOWN GARDEN

Each week Green Club Members get stuck in with making Harlesden Town Garden a better place. They also learn how to grow their own fruit and vegetables. Harlesden Town Garden, Challenge Close, St Mary’s Road, Harlesden.

Saturdays. 10am-2pm. info@ harlesdentowngarden.co.uk

HEALTH & WELLBEING PEER SUPPORT GROUP BIWEEKLY This is a biweekly peer support group, set up by people with lived experience, to offer support and wellbeing to each

other - everyone is welcome.

Ashford Place, 60 Ashford Road, Cricklewood, London NW2 6TU. Tuesdays. 1.30-3.30pm.

Engagementbrent@hestia.org

WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENCE WORKSHOP

Interactive workshops which introduce you to basic practical self-defence techniques and better protect you from potentially dangerous situations. Claremont High School Sports Hall. Mondays.

7-9pm. £15. info@HarrowWSD.com

HEALTHY EATING

Brent Start taster session - learn how to eat healthily. Free but space limited so please book in advance. Ealing Road Library, Coronet Parade, Ealing Road, Middlesex, HA0 4BA. Thursday 14 June. 11am-1pm. 0208 937 3950. brent.start@brent.gov.uk

OVER 50S ELDERS VOICE YOGA CONNECTS

A gentle yoga and relaxation class for people over the age of 50 who want to stay fit and sharp. Elders Voice, 181 Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, NW10 5TN. Thursdays. 1.30 to 2.30pm. £4 on the day, or pay for 12 weeks or 6 weeks in advance and receive a discount (£3.50 per class). annas@eldersvoice.org.uk

ELDERS VOICE DANCE MOVEMENT THERAPY

Improve your physical fitness, emotional wellbeing and cognitive function through free expressive movement to music. Elders Voice, 181 Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, NW10 5TN. Tuesdays. 2-3pm. £4 on the day, or pay for 12 weeks or 6 weeks in advance and receive a discount (£3.50 per class). annas@eldersvoice.org.uk

ELDERS VOICE DRAMA AND SINGING CLASS

Join Jenny every Tuesday for an hour of singing and drama. Learn

If you would like your event included in these pages, submit the details at www.brent.gov.uk/events

new songs, remember old songs, bring memories to life and have lots of fun and laughter along the way. Elders Voice, 181 Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, NW10 5TN. Tuesdays. 11.30am-12.30pm. £4 on the day, or pay for 12 weeks or 6 weeks in advance and receive a discount (£3.50 per class). annas@eldersvoice.org.uk

SPORT

ELDERS VOICE WALKING CLUB

PILATES IN ROUNDWOOD PARK

Join Sherita on the third Saturday of every month for an hour of walking in the great outdoors. Elders Voice, 181 Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, NW10 5TN. Saturdays. 10.3011.30am. £2.50 per session. annas@eldersvoice.org.uk

SELFDEVELOPMENT CAFE AND ENTERPRISE PROJECT FOR ADULTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITES

Do you support and care for a client or relative with learning disabilities and difficulties. Do they enjoy cooking? Would they like to learn about food hygiene and how to prepare their own meals? They can come and learn all these skills and much more with Brent Start.

Brent Start, 1 Morland Gardens, Stonebridge, NW10 8DY. Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays.

9.30am. 020 8937 3950. brent.start@brent.gov.uk

INTRODUCTION TO BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE - UNIT 101 This is a short 5 week course that will introduce you to British Sign Language Unit 101 at Level 1.

This is suitable for complete beginners.

Brent Start, 1 Morland Gardens, Stonebridge. Saturdays.

12-2pm. zarqa.sethi@ brent.gov.uk

BOOTCAMP IN ROUNDWOOD PARK

A fitness boot camp session that mixes traditional calisthenic and body weight exercises, with interval and strength training. Roundwood Park, Harlesden Road, London NW10. Wednesdays. 6.30 -7.30pm. www.ourparks.org.uk Pilates is a system of controlled exercises that engage the mind and condition the total body. The blend of strength and flexibility training improves posture while shaping toning muscles. Barham Park. Wednesdays. 6.30 -7.30pm. www.ourparks.org.uk

BOOTCAMP IN ROE GREEN PARK

A fitness boot camp class that mixes traditional calisthenic and body weight exercises, with interval and strength training. Roe Green Park.

Saturdays. 9.30-10.30am. www.ourparks.org.uk

BOOTCAMP AT STONEBRIDGE REC

A fitness boot camp session that mixes traditional calisthenic and body weight exercises, with interval and strength training.

Stonebridge Rec. Saturdays.

10-11am. www.ourparks.org.uk

BOX FIT IN QUEENS PARK

A fun way to get fit through a high intensity full body workout. The class incorporates solid boxing pad work with body conditioning.

Queens Park. Sundays. 10-11am. www.ourparks.org.uk

BHANGRABLAZE FITNESS CLASS

An amazing fun calorie blazing workout which uses basic but powerful moves of the bhangra style of dance. Suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.

Oakington Manor Primary School, Oakington Manor Drive, Wembley HA9 6NF. Wednesdays. 7-8pm. £5 pay as you go or £40 to book the 10 week block.

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ARTS & CULTURE Genna Panchani – 07949 648867. genna.panchani@ bhangrablaze.com

RUN WITH ANDY - ONE TREE HILL

Get out and about and see that running can be fun and enjoyable. Andy also leads group runs and walking sessions that are fun, friendly and free for adults, guys and girls twice a week. One Tree Hill Park, Norton Road, Alperton, HA0 4QN. Tuesdays and Thursdays. 6.458pm. runwithandy@gmail.com

BOUNCE DANCE FIT WITH CLAIRE

A new, high-energy fitness class influenced by Hip-hop, House, Wacking and Vogue. This is a total workout, combining elements of dance, fitness, cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, along with an amazing boost of feel-good energy!.

Yellow Pavilion, Wembley Retail Park, Engineers Way, HA9 0EG.

Tuesdays. 7-8pm. £5. claire@clairefarmer.co.uk

HIPHOP WITH ELAN ARTS

Join us at Élan Arts for free of charge dance sessions every Saturday. Yellow Pavilion, Wembley Retail, Park Engineers Way, HA9 0EG. Saturdays. 5.309pm. office@elanarts.org.uk

BRENT DOLPHINS SWIMMING CLUB Brent Dolphins Swimming Club aims to promote the teaching and coaching of all aspects of swimming, including teacher training and lifesaving, for those aged 5 and over. Vale Farm and Willesden Sports Centres. www.brentdolphins.org.uk. info@brentdolphins.org.uk

WOMENS ONLY SWIMMING – WEMBLEY LEISURE CENTRE

Womens Only Swim, sauna and steam every Saturday at Wembley Leisure Centre. Wembley Leisure Centre, Empire Way Wembley HA9 0EF. Saturdays. 4.15-5.15pm. £5.10. wembley.leisurecentre@gll.org

WEMBLEY STALLIONS AMERICAN FOOTBALL CLUB

Wembley Stallions are recruiting players and coaches for a women’s team, under 17s,

under 19s and a senior team.

No experience is necessary. 136 Greenford Road, Hussain Close, HA1 3QL. Saturdays. 9.30am-1pm. £5 per session. teammanager@ wembleystallions.com

LATIN DANCE

Join Meg on Wednesdays at 11am for Latin dance sessions for people age 50 and over! Everyone is welcome, whether you are recovering from a long-term health related issue, living with a dementia or just want to keep fit. Elders Voice, 181 Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, NW10 5TN. Wednedays. 11am to 12pm. £4 per class. annas@eldersvoice.org.uk

Saturday 16 June. 10am-12pm. www.letsride.co.uk/rides/roadto-wembley-6

METROLAND

A challenging 25 mile cycle route from Vale Farm Sports Centre.

Overflow Car Park at Vale Farm Sports Centre (between swimming pool and play centre), Watford Road.

Saturday 30 June. 10am-2pm. www.letsride.co.uk/rides/ metroland-3

KEEP IT MOVING BOOTCAMP

A 60 minute bootcamp designed for your level of fitness. These free weekly sessions will gets you burning maximum calories in order to reach your goal. The Unity Centre Church Rd. Wednesdays. 11am12pm. fitness@mikemartinpt.com

ROAD TO WEMBLEY BIKE RIDE

This is a 10 mile circuit of Wembley including the stadium. Overflow Car Park at Vale Farm Sports Centre (between swimming pool and play centre) Watford Road.

CHELMSFORD SQUARE TENNIS LEAGUES

If you have been meaning to get back into tennis or would like to meet new people to play, why not join the Chelmsford Square Tennis League. Open to men and women (18+) of all standards, everyone is welcome. Chelmsford Square, London, NW10 3AP. Thursday 19 July - Wednesday 12 September.

Entry is £18. localtennisleagues. com/chelmsfordsquare

CLASSIFIED ADS PIANO, SINGING, THEORY LESSONS Experienced, dedicated teacher has vacancies.

All grades from beginners, adults and children.

Assistance with exams for grammar school entry and GCSE’s. Sensitive approach. Good results. Recognised by “The Best of Brent”.

Soundproof studio. Contact Mrs Mignonette Aarons for a free consultation.

020 8204 8778

mignonette@sky.com

SPECIALIST GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE TUITION Specifically for the new 9-1 GCSEs. BA in English Literature and Language.

PGCE in English Language and Literature.

AQA Examiner. London trained.

Currently lead as head of English in a good London school. For more information, call on...

07931 160 132 et@englishteacher.co.uk

To advertise here, please email advertising@brent.gov.uk

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BRENT CHILDREN’S CENTRES SPEECH AND LANGUAGE TEAM Come along to Let’s Talk! Free, fun and interactive sessions which aim to: • S upport communication skills and parentchild interactions.

• Offer general information and advice on speech, language and communication development.

• Runs at all children’s centres in Brent for children 0-5 years.

Please contact children’s centres across Brent for further information.

Find us on Facebook @SLTinBrentCC

EVENT SPACE HIRE

WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT FAST? Improve your health and fitness? Tone your body? Do you have medical conditions or injuries that are holding you back? With The 247 Fitness we will help you every step of the way to becoming a lighter, healthier YOU! Prices start from ONLY £10 for group sessions or from ONLY £12 for one person. Group fitness classes held outdoors in local parks are ONLY £4 per person Pay As You Go with NO CONTRACT (book in advance, limited spaces available). Contact now to book your first FREE session with The 247 Fitness PT Omar! Call for a free consultation.

07594 773380

info@the247fitness.co.uk

BRENT PEST CONTROL

Whether you’re looking to host a small, intimate wedding or a grand celebration, with a spectacular view of the iconic Wembley Stadium, The Drum at Wembley offers many stunning options which are all licensed for civil ceremonies. Contact us now.

Any type of pest within your premises could lose you valuable income, cause damage to stock and have a detrimental effect on your professional reputation and business.

Contact us now.

020 8937 4340

020 8937 5252 www.brent.gov.uk/pestcontrol

events@thedrumwembley.com

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Weddings Construction Special events Surveys Property Drama Golfing Inspections Agriculture Security + Film editing

High-resolution aerial film and photography services > London-based professional drone service > Day and night flight capability > Up to 4K video quality, 20MP still photos > Fully qualified pilot with CAA approval and PfCO license > Extended flight time using high-density LiPo batteries > Live online video streaming capability > High-performance drones capable of precision flights, automatic positioning, 3D mapping, active tracking and high speeds, with advanced object avoidance > Fully insured – £30m public liability > Competitive half-day and full-day hire rates - contact us for a quick quote

020 8937 6167 07930 331373 middleton.mann@brent.gov.uk