The Brent Magazine issue 119 November 2011

ISSUE NO.119 • FREE FOR PEOPLE WHO LIVE AND WORK IN BRENT • PUBLISHED BY BRENT COUNCIL • NOVEMBER 2011

The great outdoors Duke of Edinburgh award

Light up the sky Fireworks night

Contents Features

12 16 18 19 22 23 24 25

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Brent’s line of defence changes to Housing Benefit

Keep Brent tidy

Welcome to the November issue of the Brent Magazine

The big tidy up

A head start in Harlesden Rising academic standards in Harlesden

Fireworks and festivals How Brent celebrates

Bronze beginings

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Duke of Edinburgh scheme

Pay as you go cars Greener travel with car clubs

Nurturing young talent The Granville centre

Giving Brent’s youth the X factor Brent Youth Parliament

Regulars

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Update Brent people

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All in a day’s work

Is it just me or has this year whizzed by for you too?

In fact it’s not long before we don our party hats and see in the New Year. But before you start learning the words for Auld Lang Syne, sit back, relax and enjoy this month’s mag.

I’d suggest flicking to page 16 to find out how the community came together to scrub up South Kilburn. And speaking of community have a read of pg 23 which will tell you how you can join the popular Car Club open to anyone in Brent.

You should also take a look at page 12 if you are in receipt of Local Housing Allowance as there are some changes coming in January. And to add a bit of sparkle to your month make sure you attend the annual fireworks display – details on page 19.

Until next month, Orla Sedze Editor, The Brent Magazine

Secret history Competitions Time out

Issue No. 119 November 2011 BDU 6526 10.11 The Brent Magazine contacts Distribution queries and editorial 020 8937 1062 tbm@brent.gov.uk Advertising 020 8937 1097 advertising@brent.gov.uk Published by the London Borough of Brent, Town Hall, Forty Lane, Wembley Middlesex.

The London Borough of Brent 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% recycled paper.

Please use your local paper bank when disposing of this and other paper.

One Stop Service 020 8937 1200 www.brent.gov.uk The Brent Magazine is available in large print and on audio tape.

Please ring 020 8937 1106 Cover image: Young people on the Duke of Edinburgh awards scheme.

Photograph by Simon Hanna

UPdate

Ground-breaking centre for people with learning disabilities landscaped outdoor area.

The building will be available to the wider community in the evening for clubs, meetings and leisure activities.

Councillor Ruth Moher, Brent Council’s Lead Member for Adults and Health, said: “The centre promotes independence rather than dependence.

Most people will not stay at John Billam all day, but will meet there to go out and do what everyone else does, taking into account their own capabilities and needs.”

Meal with the mayor Mayor of Brent, Councillor Aslam Choudry, delivered a meal to a Wembley resident to mark Meals on Wheels Week in October.

Doreen Meacher welcomed the mayor to her home in Wembley after he dropped by with her dinner of fish in

parsley sauce followed by a date and ginger sponge pudding, specially made for diabetics.

Around 105,000 meals are delivered every year to residents in the borough by Brent Council’s contractor Apetitio.

Councillor Aslam Choudry delivers a meal to Doreen Meacher

A service user, Brent Council Leader Councillor Ann John OBE and Stephen Gilbey from Brent Learning Disability Partnership at the site.

West End comes to Willesden Broadcaster Matthew Sweet will be revealing the secrets and goings-on in the West End of war-time London at Willesden Green Library on 28 November.

The Radio 4 presenter and writer will be talking about his new book ‘The West End Front’ which delves into the world of

Kick off for new women footballers this month Women and girls who want to improve their football skills or try the game for the first time are invited to a new six-week programme starting on 15 November.

The programme is aimed at those not currently taking part in sport or only for a very limited time. Sessions are £2 a week for females 16 or over. They are on Tuesdays from 7-8pm, at Ark Academy in Bridge Road, Wembley, email mathew.butler @middlesexfa.com or call 020 8515 1911.

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eccentrics, stars and aristocrats in the capital’s grand hotels during the Blitz. The talk will be from 78.30pm.

Photo: Tom McShane

A modern centre that will help people with learning disabilities live independently in the community is a step closer after a ground-breaking ceremony at the site.

Brent Council is building the John Billam Community Resource, near to playing fields in Preston Road, Wembley, to promote independent living for people with learning disabilities. It will have capacity for 60 people, specialist treatment rooms, offices, atrium and a

UPdate

Library legal battle near the end Brent Council won a landmark legal case at the High Court in October which takes us one step closer to transforming Brent’s library service.

The judge hearing the case, Mr Justice Ouseley, dismissed the claim against the council and found in Brent's favour on every point. However, campaigners were given the right to appeal and a final decision should be made in November.

The Leader of Brent Council, Cllr Ann John OBE, said: “The council is hopeful that the appeal will be considered as soon as possible and is confident that the Court of Appeal will uphold the decision of Mr Justice Ouseley that the council should be able to proceed with its library transformation plan.”

Brent’s growing places Food growing is taking root in Brent with 15 new community food-growing projects being set up.

The projects have all joined the Capital Growth campaign, which is aiming to create 2,012 new food growing spaces across the capital by the end of next year. Brent community initiatives include the Chalkhill Community Garden, Swaminaryan

School Food Growing Project, and a community allotment at William Saville and Dunbar House in South Kilburn. The Chalkhill garden started earlier this year when grow bags were set up in an area of disused land and residents have been planting tomatoes, sweet corn and potatoes. To find your nearest project visit www.capitalgrowth.org

Chalkhill Community Garden members

The six libraries that have now closed are: Barham Park, Cricklewood, Kensal Rise, Neasden, Preston and Tokyngton As part of the planned libraries transformation programme, Brent’s libraries will be open seven days a week from Wednesday 2 November.

So, with every resident living within 1.5 miles of one of our libraries and our libraries open every week, Monday to Sunday, there is no excuse not to make the most of over six million books, free access to the internet, DVD rentals, study space, reading groups and more!

For your nearest library and to find out what you can do there visit www.brent.gov.uk/libraries

Brent Council unveils its new Green Charter Brent Council has launched its flagship Green Charter setting out how the borough will be made greener, cleaner and more sustainable.

The charter spells out how the council will work together with residents, community groups, businesses and the voluntary sector to enhance the borough’s environment. The Green Charter commits Brent to meeting seven key environmental goals: cutting carbon dioxide emissions, reducing waste, regenerating Brent in a sustainable way, developing sustainable water resources,

promoting sustainable transport and streets, encouraging sustainable food and purchasing, and making land use greener and helping wildlife.

The council is also asking residents to play their part in meeting the goals of the charter by using public transport more, buying Fairtrade goods, recycling more of their waste, helping their local wildlife and many other activities.

For more information and to see the full version of the Green Charter visit www.brent.gov.uk /brentgoinggreen email greencharter@brent.gov.uk or call Brent Council on 020 8937 5380.

Brent BASIS boosts volunteering A new organisation to promote volunteering and the voluntary sector in the borough is up and running.

Brent BASIS is a new partnership organisation which has emerged from the Brent Association for Voluntary Action (BrAVA) which closed down earlier this year.

The new organisation will

focus on developing a voluntary sector resource centre in the borough, as well as offering training, organisational support and advice to the voluntary sector. The goals of Brent BASIS were developed after consultation with charitable and voluntary sector groups in Brent. www.brentbasis.org.uk NOVEMBER 2011

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UPdate

Top award as road accidents drop by more than half Brent scooped a top award for its work on road safety at the prestigious National Transport Awards in London in October.

These much coveted awards are the equivalent of the Oscars for the transport industry and like the Oscars, Brent was up against some A list competition from councils across Britain.

The council won the award for Best Local Authority in the Road Safety category for work which has seen the number of people injured in road accidents in Brent plummet in recent years.

The number of people killed or seriously injured has fallen by nearly 60 per cent which is the biggest reduction in London.

The success has been

Brent’s free Fireworks Night

Tim Jackson (centre) with officers from the award winning team

achieved through a wide range of activity – including road safety training in schools, targeted campaigns, the introduction of 20mph zones, CCTV enforcement and schemes to encourage safer cycling.

Village School takes shape New buildings at the Village School in Kingsbury have been officially opened to the delight of students, teachers and parents.

The high-quality interim buildings in the grounds of Kingsbury High School are the first phase of the construction of the new Village School, which will be a centre of excellence for children with special educational needs in Brent.

The Village School is an amalgamation of the former

Hay Lane and Grove Park special schools which merged in September 2010.

Pupils at the Village School are aged from 4 to 19 and have a wide range of special educational needs.

The permanent Village School building is scheduled to be completed in 2013.

Brent Council has invested £21 million in the project together with £8 million of government funding. www.brent.gov.uk /thevillageschool

Mayor of Brent Aslam Choudry cuts the ribbon

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Tim Jackson, Brent’s Head of Transportation said: “Every accident is one too many but we have achieved the biggest reduction in casualties across London and it is great to have that recognised.”

A free firework display will be lighting up the skies of Brent on 5 November.

Head down to Barham Park where we will be marking Fireworks Night and Diwali. It starts with a funfair at 6pm followed by fireworks and lasers from 8.30 to 10pm. No dogs or personal fireworks are allowed and you are advised to take public transport. If the event is cancelled because of bad weather it will be held on 6 November, visit www.brent.gov.uk /fireworks

Could you be Brent’s young musician of 2012? residents of Brent or Young musicians have the attending a school in the opportunity to grab the borough. Entry forms need limelight this month by to be returned by 11 taking part in Brent’s most November, visit www prestigious music .brentmusicservice.com competition. or call 020 8204 8096.

Brent Young Musician of the Year is open for entries, but the deadline closes on 11 November.

The winner will appear as a guest soloist at Brent Makes Music 2012 in Wembley Arena next April.

Vocalists and instrumentalists can perform in any style from classical to rock, jazz and world music. There is also Brent young a prize fund of £800. musician 2010 Competitors must Indira Grier be aged between 13 and 18 and either

UPdate

Fire tragedy sparks safety campaign The London Fire Brigade has launched a new safety campaign after the tragic deaths of five members of the same family in a house fire in Neasden.

Muna Elmufatish and her daughters Hanin Kua, Basma Kua, Amal Kua and sons Mustafa and Yehya died at their home after the fire in September. The fire brigade has now launched its Share It Save A Life initiative urging residents to share safety tips.

Brigade officers are visiting secondary schools in Brent to encourage pupils to get involved in the campaign, which is being organised through Facebook and encourages people to pass on fire safety tips to friends on the social networking site.

Staff and pupils at the schools in Brent which the children attended have paid tribute to them at special assemblies. Kim Beat, Headteacher at Braintcroft Primary School, said: “Staff and pupils have been deeply shocked by the tragic deaths of two of our children and their family members. Mustafa and Amal were delightful, happy children with a loving and

Brent marks Remembrance Sunday this November Brent will be remembering the servicemen and servicewomen who have given their lives for their country on 13 November.

Remembrance Sunday events include a service organised by the Royal British Legion at St John the Evangelist Church, in Crawford Avenue, Wembley, at 10.30am.

Following it will be the Borough Civic Remembrance Service and Parade, at the memorial site in Queen Elizabeth Gardens, Barham Park, Harrow Road, Wembley, at 2.15pm, which will feature a march-past and wreathlaying. Mayor of Brent

Councillor Aslam Choudry said: “Remembrance Sunday is one of the most important dates in the civic calendar. It is our opportunity to remember the sacrifices brave servicemen and servicewomen made for the freedom we cherish today.”

supportive family. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to their family and friends.”

Bev Bell, Principal of Crest Girls’ Academy, spoke to pupils during a special assembly. “The girls were well-known, loved and respected by you all. We are so proud to have experienced their contribution to our lives within this academy,” she said. www.facebook.com/londonfirebrigade

Olympic start for fun run The mascots of the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics cheered on more than 200 people at Brent Council’s annual Fun Run and Walk in Fryent Country Park.

Olymplc mascots Wenlock and Mandeville congratulate young runners

Brent’s best careers advice A careers fair has been organised by Brent Council on 3 November to give young people advice about their future. The event is for 14 to 19 year olds and their families and offers you the chance to do a mock interview, speak to a careers adviser, and representatives

from construction, legal, healthcare and engineering companies. There will also be a prize draw to win an iPod nano. The event is from 3.30-7.30pm at the Wembley Plaza Hotel in Empire Way, limited free parking is available, call 020 8438 1650.

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BRENT COUNCIL PRESENTS A SPECTACULAR

FREE FIREWORKS DISPLAY

CELEBRATING FIREWORKS NIGHT AND DIWALI Saturday 5 November 2011 Barham Park, Harrow Road, Sudbury HA0 2HB Funfair starts at 6pm Fireworks and laser display at 8.30pm closes at 10pm No pets, No personal fireworks Leave the car at home as it’s a Wembley Stadium event day on 5 November and if you park without an event day permit your car will be towed away. There is no parking available. Nearest tube station is Sudbury Town or Wembley Central.

Buses 18, 92, 182, 204, 245.

If the original event is cancelled due to bad weather we will have the event on Sunday 6 November For more information visit www.brent.gov.uk/fireworks

Thanks to: Wembley

BRENTpeople

Stonebridge’s soccer success Scouted at nine by Tottenham Hotspur, Jason Roberts of Stonebridge found fame as a professional footballer and now plays for Blackburn Rovers and the Grenada National Football Team.

Words SHARON DONOVAN. When did you realise you wanted to play professional football?

At the tender age of six. Three years later I was scouted by Tottenham Hotspur FC after playing for my Sunday club – Parkfield Youth FC.

Does sporting ability run in your family?

Yes, very much so. My uncles - Cyrille Regis, David Regis and Otis Roberts are all ex-professional footballers and another uncle of mine John Regis is an Olympic Gold Medallist sprinter.

Where in Brent did you grow up?

Stonebridge. Although I had to deal with the challenges that face most youngsters living in economically deprived areas like peer pressure, lack of facilities and opportunities, my memories of growing up in Stonebridge are amongst the happiest of my life.

Tell us about the Jason Roberts Foundation The foundation was something I had wanted to do for some time. I established it in 2007 to provide opportunities for disadvantaged children and young people in the UK and across the Caribbean to participate in sporting and cultural activities.

I received an MBE in 2010 from the Queen for my charity work.

Do you ever come back to Brent?

Yes, as often as I can. The foundation has a project that is funded by the Football Foundation based at Stonebridge Pavilion for young people to get into coaching. The foundation is also involved in a local schools football league and I like to come and watch the teams play when I can.

Know an interesting Brent person?

TBM@brent.gov.uk

The Jason Roberts Foundation is giving young people the opportunity to gain accredited FA Level one coaching at the Stonebridge Pavilion from November.

If you are aged 16 and over and interested in registering email info@jasonrobertsfoundation.org

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ALL IN Aday’s

work

Sign of the times Being frugal and self sufficient is more commonly associated with those trying to lead the ‘good life’. But the idea of self preservation is something the council has done long before it was trendy and can be illustrated by Brent’s Sign Shop.

The distinctive Pyramid House is located in Wembley’s industrial estate overlooked by the iconic stadium.

More commonly associated with the Parking Shop, Pyramid House is also home to the Sign Shop where a team of four; design, produce, distribute and maintain all the signage in the borough.

Jatin Dusara, Sign Shop Supervisor, ensures every sign meets strict legal requirements. Jatin said: “We make all the roads signs for Brent including school crossing signs, controlled parking signs, speed restrictions and road names.

“Every sign is produced here in our workshop and installed by the team.”

The team do most work in-house taking orders from departments like Recycling and Waste, Transportation and Parking Enforcement. All the officers are fully trained in using the industrial machinery to produce the signs. There is also a warehouse which holds all the freestanding or temporary signs used by the council.

Jatin added: “We do our best to reuse or modify signs, this may involve changing wording on signs rather than

replacing it completely. We also collect signs that are unusable and take them for recycling and use the money we are paid for the aluminium to buy more equipment and material.”

Despite every effort to keep costs down the team do not skimp in ensuring signs meet legal standards.

Every ten years the government produces a document that states how signs should be designed. A new one will be out next year and a number of signs are now being produced to meet new guidelines. Jatin said: “One change for example is the word ‘meter’ needs to be replaced with ‘machine’ as it’s confusing.

However, a benefit of these new guidelines is that many signs don’t have to be as big as before which will help us save money.”

To report a sign call 020 8937 5706 or email streetcare@brent.gov.uk

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Advice for y With 500 residents a month expected to be affected by the cuts to housing benefit, Brent Council is pulling together a temporary team of benefit advisers to respond to the changes coming in January 2012.

Last year the government announced a national cap on Local Housing Allowance (LHA), a form of Housing Benefit. The impact of this is expected to see many households, especially families, priced out of London forcing them to leave homes, jobs and friends behind.

The first wave of cuts were introduced early this year and meant that people who made a new claim for benefits received significantly less than they would have got last year.

In January of next year the second wave of changes will be introduced

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which will see the remaining people on the old rate of benefits gradually brought over to the new rate.

The government has also announced that from January anyone under 35 will only be entitled to enough housing benefit to cover the average cost of a single room in a shared house, this restriction currently applies to anyone under the age of 25.

To gear up for these changes Brent applied for funding from the Department of Work and Pensions to help put in place support for those

affected and was the only authority with a successful bid.

Andy Monkley, Benefits Subsidy and Policy Manger said: “Although Brent Council does accept that the system needs to be changed, we believe the government’s proposals will actually have a significant effect on people living in London and on families. In fact we expect the changes to result in an increase in homelessness and extra expense on the public purse.

“The money we have secured will pay for some temporary welfare benefit advisers who will help in negotiations with landlords and advise on steps which customers can take to help ease their situation.”

Everyone affected by the caps will be notified in writing but can find more information on our website. www.brent.gov.uk/benefitchanges

your benefit There isn’t anything to do with benefits that Andy doesn’t know!

Here he talks about what you can expect and how to be prepared.

What do the caps mean?

What should claimants do?

A limit has been introduced so that weekly payments of Local Housing Allowance do not exceed £250 for one beds (including shared accommodation), £290 for two beds, £340 for three beds and £400 for four or more bedrooms.

Be prepared.

Find out what your new rate will be and talk to us if you think you might struggle to pay your rent. You will need to consider how you deal with the shortfall – whether that’s by paying it yourself or by negotiating a new rent with your landlord, but at the same time, the reality may mean having to move somewhere cheaper.

Give yourself plenty of time to consider your options.

When will the latest round of cuts come into effect?

For the last nine months anyone who had previously been claiming benefits before April had their benefits protected at the old rate. This protection comes to an end next year, nine months after the anniversary of the last claim.

Contact the Benefits Team on 020 8937 1800 or email benefits@brent.gov.uk

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A charter for After consultation with residents, businesses and community groups Brent Council has this month unveiled the Brent Green Charter setting out its environmental goals.

Insulating your loft and fitting energy saving lightbulbs are just two ways to help reduce the borough’s carbon footprint

We need to protect existing biodiversity and create wildlife corridors in Brent where possible

Buying Fairtrade goods also has a positive impact on local and global environments

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Brent Council is launching its Green Charter this autumn, setting out how we can all make the borough greener, cleaner and more sustainable.

Several months ago we asked you what you thought about the proposals for the new charter, and were delighted with all the responses. All of what was said has been considered. So, thank you to everyone in the borough who took part in the consultation.

Now we can unveil the Green Charter, which has seven goals for everyone in Brent to consider. We want to cut carbon dioxide emissions. For Brent Council that means a 25 per cent reduction by 2014; we would like schools to do the same.

Next, we need to recycle more and reduce waste. Brent Council has already launched its new recycling service and aims for 60 per cent of waste in the borough to be recycled by 2014 but it is up to residents to make this happen. We also need to make regeneration more sustainable, for example, by reducing the carbon footprint of new developments and building Brent Council’s low carbon Civic Centre. Our transport and streets must become more sustainable – we need people to get out of their cars and onto public transport and cycling or walking.

Food also needs to be more sustainable; that could mean growing your own food or buying Fairtrade products.

Improved conservation and use of water is another goal, which means we need to start using water more efficiently. Lastly, land needs to be managed in a sustainable way and animal welfare promoted.

We need to protect existing biodiversity and create wildlife corridors in Brent where possible.

The Green Charter brings together everything that Brent Council is doing to improve, enhance and protect the environment and what information and practical tips it can give to help you.

However, the Green Charter is about asking you to get involved and play your part. That could mean growing your own vegetables, recycling more of your waste, putting solar panels on your roof, putting up a bird-box, buying Fairtrade products, or taking the tube or bus to work more often. There are many simple steps you can take.

For the full version of the Green Charter and to find out what you else you can do visit www.brent.gov.uk/greencharter e-mail environment@brent.gov.uk 020 8937 5380.

“Developing Brent into a greener borough needs to be done collectively with our partners, people who live, work and study here, public and private sectors and voluntary groups.”

NOVEMBER 2011

the environment Brent Green Charter Brent Council is dedicated to creating a borough which is greener, cleaner and more sustainable. The Green Charter sets out everything the council is doing, what help we can give, and how residents, schools, businesses and voluntary groups can play their part.

Growing your own vegetables is good for you and the environment

The Green Charter aims to: • cut carbon dioxide emissions • recycle more and reduce waste • regenerate Brent in a sustainable way • develop sustainable water resources • promote sustainable transport and streets • encourage sustainable food and purchasing

Brent’s new Civic Centre will be the greenest public building in the UK

• make land use greener and help wildlife.

Together we will make Brent a greener place for all who live, work and study here. www.brent.gov.uk/greencharter environment@brent.gov.uk 020 8937 5380

A bird-box in your garden will help encourage wildlife and biodiversity

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Keep Brent Tidy Background picture: residents prepare to tidy.

Foreground: young and old alike join forces to clean up.

Below: the estate after the tidy.

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Rubbish was left to build up on a Brent estate for one week, only to be cleared by its residents the next! But there were no complaints as this was part of an exercise to highlight the amount of litter dumped on estates and the commitment from residents to live in a clean environment.

Brent Housing Partnership (BHP), the company that manage and maintain all Brent Council homes and estates, held a community clean up day on the South Kilburn estate in September.

The event was part of the Keep Britain Tidy ‘Love Where You Live’ campaign which aims to inspire people to think about their communities and take action to reduce litter around where they live, the places they visit and the spaces they use.

BHP stopped litter picking in a part of South Kilburn for five days allowing rubbish to build up so that residents could see the impact it had.

Armed with brooms, gloves and bin bags an eager group of local residents, representatives from Keep Britain Tidy, BHP officers and children from Kilburn Park Primary school spent two hours the

following week getting the estate spotless.

The Big Tidy Up demonstrated the unsightly and unhealthy effects of litter, the cost involved in clearing up the mess, as well as identifying how much could be recycled.

Christina Byrne, Estate Services Manager from BHP explained: “We are committed to ensuring residents have a pleasant environment to live in. We believe that the condition of an area plays a big part in people’s quality of life and encourages them to value their neighbourhoods.

“We wanted to highlight the problems caused by dumping litter as well as bringing people together through a common interest - and we managed to do just that!”

Cody Garcia, aged nine, from Kilburn Park Primary School said:

“People shouldn’t throw rubbish like this; it is like they don’t care. They need to throw their rubbish in the bin.”

In April last year, BHP was awarded the ‘exemplar’ level in the Cleaner, Safer, Greener Quality Mark by Keep Britain Tidy. This means that all Brent Council's housing estates managed by BHP have been judged to be of an excellent standard by an external awarding body. It was a huge achievement and a reflection of how highly BHP values its residents and the environment they live in.

Gerry Doherty, Chief Executive of BHP, said: “Hopefully this event will have an impact on the way people dispose of litter and encourage them to take more responsibility for their communities.” www.lovewhereyoulive.org

“We wanted to highlight the problems caused by dumping litter as well as bringing people together through a common interest - and we managed to do just that!”

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A head start in Harlesden

Academic standards at schools in Harlesden have been transformed in recent years. GCSE and A-level results have soared at Capital City Academy, Newman Catholic College and the Convent of Jesus and Mary Language College with many pupils now going on to higher education.

The three secondary schools have helped contribute to the good standard of education on offer at Brent’s great schools.

This year, Capital City’s first student was accepted at Oxford University.

Suleyman Abdi was one of 55 who went on to university. Meanwhile, 73 per cent of GCSE students got five or more A*C grades.

In contrast, in 2003 no-one took Alevels because the academy had no sixth form and the following year, 28 per cent

of pupils got five or more A*- C grades at GCSE. Principal Alex Thomas said: “The longer the academy has been open, the more students have benefited from the improved teaching and learning we can offer.”

One of Newman’s top performing students was Gregorio Larini who achieved 11 GCSEs, including six at A grade. Around 70 per cent of his classmates got five or more A*-C grades – up from 18 per cent in 2004.

Principal Richard Kolka said: “There has been a complete transformation in the way the school runs and in the level of success it now achieves. Expectations have changed, standards are now very high and behaviour is excellent.”

Stephanie Santos attends the Convent of Jesus and Mary. She achieved 14 GCSEs including six at A*. GCSEs at grades A*- C have risen steadily to 85 per cent in the last six years.

Exactly 95 per cent of A-level students went onto higher education this year and traditionally some go to the best universities.

Convent Headteacher Geraldine Freear said: “Our girls buy into the culture of success at this outstanding school. This rise in achievement is due to a robust intervention plan and the tailoring of the curriculum to suit the needs of each individual.”

Two schools stand side by side in achievement: Stephanie Santos from the Convent of Jesus and Mary Language College and Gregorio Larini of Newman Catholic College.

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Fireworks and festivals Remember, remember the fifth of November as Brent holds its annual fireworks display. Despite many cuts, the council is still delivering events that allow the community to come together and celebrate.

Saida Ladha from events and marketing

TBM talks to Saida Ladha who is part of the team that manages events in Brent to find out what we can look forward to and why some have been cut or scaled down.

What do you do?

I manage the organisation of events and give advice to anyone who wants to hold their own events. I also generate income for the council through advertising.

Why does the council hold events?

Events bring people together to celebrate various activities or festivals. We need some time out of our daily routines to mark occasions or once in a lifetime events, such as the Olympics.

What events have been cut and why?

The budget pressures facing all councils meant we had to review our funding for all events. Brent Council’s Executive agreed to stop funding cultural and faith-related events from 1 April 2012 and instead develop a program of events that everyone gets involved in under the theme ‘Brent Celebrates’.

Fireworks Night at Barham Park 5 November 8.30pm

So what events are happening this year?

The council had already put money towards the Navaratri Festival so that will go ahead as planned this year. We now plan to celebrate Diwali with an amazing firework and laser show and Eid al Haj will be celebrated with an event at Brent Town Hall.

We plan to have Christmas trees, Chanukah, Holocaust Memorial Day, St Patrick’s Day and St George’s Day. From April 2012 all these events will be replaced with a new programme under the theme ‘Brent Celebrates’.

Can people organise their own events?

Yes, absolutely! Anyone can organise their own public event as long as they meet council guidelines and health and safety rules. We can provide advice and information but not funding.

Events are important as they bring the community together which is always a good thing. www.brent.gov.uk/planyourevent NOVEMBER 2011

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What goes in each bin?

Your new waste and recycling service started last month and already we are recycling more.

The new blue-top recycling bin gives you more capacity to recycle. Did you know that the blue-top recycling bin is five times bigger than the old green box? We are now collecting new materials for recycling such as: • rigid plastics containers • cartons • cardboard.

The new mixed recycling service is easier and takes less time to recycle. All you need to do is put all the materials that are collected for recycling in the right bin, without using plastics bags, and we will do the rest.

Thousands of Brent residents received last month a new container for their food waste. If you have an organics wheeled bin you should continue to use the bin for your food waste and

garden waste as well.

We do recognise that a minority of residents may struggle to adjust to the new waste and recycling collection service during the first few weeks of the new service.

We are currently working closely with these residents to provide the necessary help and advice. Please visit the recycling website pages or contact us if you have any more questions.

Green organics bin We are unable to empty your organics wheeled bin or food waste container if you use plastic bags to wrap your food waste. This includes biodegradable and compostable bags. However, you can wrap your food waste in paper bags, newspaper or paper.

Vegetable and fruit waste Food scraps (cooked and uncooked) Bread Cheese Egg shells Tea bags Coffee grounds Pasta and rice

Grass and plant cuttings Leaves Twigs Hedge trimmings Weeds Garden prunings Plants Flowers Fallen fruit

We will no longer collect cardboard with the green organics bin.

Cardboard is now collected with the new recycling bin.

Food waste container and kitchen caddy Vegetable and fruit waste Food scraps (cooked and uncooked)

Bread Cheese Egg shells Tea bags

Coffee grounds Pasta and rice

What to put in your blue-topped recycling bin

NEW

Bag it!

Newspaper Magazines Catalogues Telephone directories Junk mail Leaflets Envelopes

Green, brown and clear glass bottles and jars

Cardboard boxes Cereal boxes Egg boxes Greetings cards Kitchen and toilet roll tubes

Food and drinks cartons (eg Tetra Pak™)

NEW

Food tins and drink cans Aerosol cans Kitchen foil Foil cake trays Foil ready meal trays

NEW

Clothes Textiles Shoes

All household batteries

Car batteries

Used engine oil

Rigid plastic containers Margarine tubs Ice cream tubs Yoghurt pots Fruit punnets

Do not put these items in the blue top bin. Put these items in clear plastic bags or sacks, or in labelled plastic bags.

Put the bags next to the recycling bin on your collection day.

www.brent.gov.uk/recyclemore Tel: 020 8937 5050

All plastic bottles including: Shampoo Shower gel Washing-up liquid Water and drinks bottles

Wash ‘n’ squash

Please wash and squash cans, plastics, cartons and milk cartons. It creates space to recycle more.

WARNING If you put the wrong materials in the containers, we cannot collect them.

We cannot collect excess landfill waste left outside the landfill waste bin.

The road to adulthood is winding with many ups and downs. To prepare them for the trip of a lifetime many young people are choosing to follow a path that is bronze, silver and gold.

Words RYAN FALCON-HAY

Bronze beginnings

Overseen by Brent Youth and Connexions Service (BYCS), the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a national award which encourages young people aged 14 - 24 to gain new experience and better themselves through a choice of enjoyable, challenging and rewarding activities.

Young people progress through three levels of DofE programmes to achieve a bronze, silver or gold award. Aspects of the programme include, volunteering, physical recreation, skills development, expeditions at home or abroad and residential trips.

Peter Smith, who has been running the programme in Brent for 30 years, was invited to the Queen’s garden party during the summer for his outstanding work and contribution to the DofE. “What I always enjoy seeing is the growth in self-confidence of the young

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people from nervous and self-effacing at the start, to self-assured, well-balanced individuals when they finish.

“When we started the programme in Brent 30 years ago, there were only four participants. Today, around 500 young people from all over Brent complete their DofE every year, making us one of the most successful DofE operating authorities in London. Many young people start at bronze and then progress to the higher levels.”

Three young people to recently complete their bronze awards are Amy Shah, Florence MacDonald and Rohini Patel, all 14.

Amy said: “I have learnt new skills and made new friends. The award teaches you responsibility, teamwork and, through the expedition, how to be independent.”

“It also teaches you perseverance and determination,” added Florence, “skills you gain from doing the expedition in harsh weather.”

Rohini, who is planning on moving on to the silver award, said: “The great thing about it is that it gives you the opportunity to do things you wouldn’t normally do.” www.bmyvoice.org.uk/dofe BYCS will be holding an open evening for their next bronze programme on Thursday 17 November at the Poplar Grove Centre, Wembley.

For more information call Peter Smith on 020 8937 3658 or email peter.smith@brent.gov.uk www.dofe.org

Hire a car for a song In just over two years, the membership of car clubs in Brent has soared by more than 100 per cent as drivers realise the financial and environmental benefits of hiring a vehicle over owning a private car.

Words RYAN FALCON-HAY City Car Club and Zipcar (who merged with StreetCar at the end of October this year) are the two car club operators in the borough, providing 3,700 Brent members with access to 96 vehicles, including five vans.

Twenty-three year old Wembley resident and opera singer, Tim Lawrence, is a member of Zipcar who regularly uses a vehicle in Empire Way not too far from his apartment.

“When I moved to London four years ago, I had my own car but had to give it up as it became too expensive to maintain because of costs like the congestion charge, road tax and petrol.

“On average I hire the car 30 to 40 times a year and it’s great for short trips like going shopping or meeting friends, as you get 20 miles free mileage per day meaning you only have to pay for the time you use it.

“As I need to travel around the country to perform at concerts, hiring the car for a few hours a day, or even longer, is very convenient. There aren’t any restrictions on the amount I can carry with me like on a train, or the time I need to leave to get back because the trains have stopped running.

And if there are a few of us going, we split the cost which usually works out equal to or cheaper than a train ticket.”

As part of Brent Council’s commitment to reducing congestion and carbon emissions, two new schemes have been introduced to encourage residents to make the switch.

Under the Permit Surrender scheme, residents can apply for a £200 grant towards joining and using a car club if they give up their current parking permit (including those for a second family car) for a minimum of two years.

In addition, the council has given all car club vehicles an ‘all zone’ parking permit, meaning they can be parked in any of the controlled parking zone resident bays around the borough.

“Booking a car is really simple now they have the iPhone app – you can book a car in a few minutes’ notice,” says Tim. www.brent.gov.uk/carclubs

“As I need to travel around the country to perform at concerts, hiring the car for a few hours a day or even longer is very convenient.”

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Nurturing young talent Forget the X Factor, when it comes to talent, Brent’s bursting with gifted, creative young people, many of whom first caught the artistic bug at the Granville Plus Youth Arts Centre.

Tucked away on the fringes of the South Kilburn Estate, the centre, which is managed by Brent Youth and Connexions Service, runs a programme of free creative and performing arts courses for 11 to 25-year-olds that are delivered by arts and media professionals.

Granville Plus Youth Arts Centre also has links to well-respected external institutions like the Central St Martins College of Art & Design, Sadler’s Wells Theatre and the British Film Institute.

Brent youth arts development worker, Tina Ramdeen, has been managing the youth art activities since 2008 and has seen

its programme of courses widen and evolve.

“We cater across all the art forms and provide a link from London and UK-wide arts bodies directly into Brent” explained Tina. “Some young people come here to have fun and be creative while others, who want to take their careers further, come to get an introduction into the creative industry which is notoriously difficult to get into.

“Just recently, our drama group started acting in and posting an online drama called You Choose, (www.bmyvoice.org.uk/youchoose).

The latest series is called Beginning with No End and it’s proving really popular judging by the number of hits its getting.”

A number of ex-Granville members have not only gone on to work in the arts, a few have also come back to train and inspire up-and-coming artists and actors. Like fashion-designer-to-the-stars, Romero Bryan, who’s dressed Beyonce and Kelly Rowland and who also guest teaches at the centre.

The Slum Civilians Dance Company is another group of young people who are not only honing their talents and being mentored at Granville, as artists in residence. They are also passing down their skills and knowledge to their peers.

To find out more about the Granville Plus Youth Arts Centre, call 020 8937 3615 email tina.ramdeen@brent.gov.uk or visit www.bmyvoice.org.uk/granville Mondays Guitar - Intermediate 5.30 – 7pm Taekwondo 6 – 8pm Vocal training (20 minutes private lessons) 6 – 9pm Guitar - Beginners 7 – 8.30pm Magazine/Journalism project 7 – 9pm Tuesdays Street dance Online drama project Art/Illustration Fashion as a business

6 6 6 6

– – – –

8pm 9pm 9pm 9pm

The drama group recreate The Last Supper

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Giving Brent youth the X-factor Brent Youth Parliament is campaigning to raise awareness among young people about the importance of politics. Words JASON GRIMSLEY The youth parliament has launched its Empower the Youth: Power the Change campaign to get more young people engaged with decision-making and politics. Its aims include; increasing the number of young people in Brent who are registered to vote, improving the perception of politics among young people and working with Brent Council to raise the profile of political affairs among the young.

They are now surveying young people about their perceptions of politics and decision-making and asking their views about events such as the recent summer riots in London. The results of the survey will be released at a special conference to be held on 23 November.

As well as the survey results, the conference will bring together young people from across Brent, local and national decision-makers and media representatives, to raise awareness and educate young people on politics and promote many youth activities in the borough.

“We are the future decisionmakers of Brent and the UK.” Brent Youth Parliament chair Kishan Parshotam said: “Many young people across the country are completely unaware of their right to vote. If all 16 to

18 year olds in Brent registered to vote, politicians would be forced to treat young people with the respect that they deserve.

“After all, we are the future decisionmakers of Brent and the UK.” Brent Youth Parliament is made up of representatives aged ten to 19 who represent schools, youth groups and groups such as youngsters with disabilities, looked-after children, special schools or young people who have refugee status. The youth parliament has 72 members – or MYPs – elected every year, and a committee of five.

For more on the Empower the Youth: Power the Change visit www.bmyvoice.org.uk/byp

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EID for ALL Bring the whole family for a great day out

Saturday 12 November 2011 2pm-6pm Paul Daisley Hall, Brent Town Hall Come with the family to support and celebrate Eid al Hajj in Brent

• Food stalls • face painting • henna artist • nasheed • wear your national or traditional dress • prize for best dressed person

FREE ENTRY For more details contact Cllr. Emad Al-Ebadi on 07912 622 443, email cllr.emad.al-ebadi@brent.gov.uk

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SECREThistory

Winning water women In August 1960, while their male counterparts headed to Rome for the Olympic Games, Europe’s women rowers came to a local reservoir for their own races.

Words by PHILIP GRANT, images from Brent Archives.

This was the first time Britain hosted the Women’s European Rowing Championships welcoming rowers from fourteen countries to the Welsh Harp Reservoir where a four-lane 1000 metre course had been laid out.

The championships were sponsored and organised by the Borough of Willesden now known as the London Borough of Brent.

Over 200 competitors and officials arrived at John Kelly School (now Crest Academy), where classrooms had been converted to dormitories for their week-long stay.

Teams from Eastern Europe dominated the championships, with the Soviet Union (Russia) winning the eights, coxed fours and double sculls. At the Welsh Harp, the German crew won the quadruple sculls while a Hungarian, Jeno Papp, won the single sculls for the third successive year.

Because of the grey and blustery weather only 5,000 people came to watch the events, which were televised on the BBC and Eurovision.

Despite the strength of the competition, British boats won through to two finals, finishing last in both. The United Universities GB eight included

Marian Yates, a teacher at Brondesbury and Kilburn High School, who had been captain of the rowing club whilst studying at King’s College. Britain’s other finalist was Penny Chuter in the single sculls, who went on to become a top rowing coach.

Britain’s women rowers, with two fourth places, did better than its men, who could only manage one fifth place in seven events at the Rome Olympics. Women’s rowing finally became an Olympic sport at Montreal in 1976. British crews have moved on since their Welsh Harp days, and at the 2012 London Olympics they will be challenging for gold medals.

Hear more fascinating stories from the reservoir’s long history when Geoffrey Hewlett introduces his beautifully illustrated new book, ‘Welsh Harp Reservoir Through Time’, at Kingsbury Library Plus on Friday 25 November, 10am - 12noon. www.brent.gov.uk/libraries

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LOCAL BUILDERS established 25 years • loft conversions • extensions • roofing • bathrooms • refurbishments • plumbing boilers • power flushing • electrical rewires • locksmith • and much more

Need a garage that gives you real service?

We’re local, competitive and super friendly.

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Advertise here from only £275 and reach 99,000 households. advertising@brent.gov.uk OR CALL 020 8937 1097

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COMPETITIONS

Win tickets to this year’s Ideal Home Show at Christmas The nations most loved home event is launching its first ever Ideal Home Show at Christmas in London’s Earls Court, this month and The Brent Magazine has got five pairs of tickets for you to win.

Between 16-20 November 2011 the Ideal Home Show will be bringing more home ideas, DIY advice and interior inspiration to make every aspect of your home perfect this winter.

To be in with a chance to win simply answer:

Where is the Ideal Home Show at Christmas taking place?

Tickets can be either booked online at www.idealhomeshowchristmas.co.uk or by calling the Ticket Hotline on 0844 209 7330 Terms and conditions • Complimentary tickets are valid for one day only, on any one day of the show between the 16 - 20 November 2011 at London's Earls Court • Tickets are non transferable • Complimentary tickets obtained through this offer may not be duplicated • All tickets will be scanned on entry to the show Competition deadline Friday 11 November

Send your entries on a postcard with your name, address and daytime telephone number to: (Name of Competition), The Brent Magazine, Room 9, Brent Town Hall, Forty Lane, Wembley HA9 9HD or email competition@brent.gov.uk (add name of competition to subject line).

Last month’s winners: Win a Go Glow Clock Competition: Nathanael McCullough, Hazel Hamid The Railway Children: Kayla Daley-Hawkins, Nita Fernandez, E. Flack, Martin Salt, Brenda Symes.

Win tickets to see The Ladykillers The Brent Magazine is giving away six pairs of tickets to The Ladykillers at the Gielgud Theatre in London from November 26.

The celebrated Ealing comedy film comes to life on stage this autumn in a hilarious and thrilling new adaption by Graham Linehan (Father Ted) and directed by Sean Foley (The Play What I Wrote).

Featuring a stellar cast of some of the finest stage and screen comedy actors including BAFTA winner Peter Capaldi (The Thick of It), James Fleet (The Vicar of Dibley), Ben Miller (The Armstrong and Miller Show), Stephen Wight (Evening Standard Outstanding Newcomer) and Olivier Award winner Clive Rowe with Marcia Warren as the sweetly innocent Mrs Wilberforce.

The Ladykillers is a classic black comedy; a sweet little old lady, alone in her house, is pitted against a gang of criminal misfits who will stop at nothing…

To win tickets and find out what this gang of misfits are up to tell us:

Who directed the theatre adaptation of The Ladykillers?

Terms and conditions • Prize includes two top price tickets valid Monday to Thursday • There is no cash alternative to the prizes; prizes are non-refundable, non-transferable and not for re-sale.

Competition deadline Friday 25 November

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TIMEout

What’s going on…

The essential guide to music, drama, sport, workshops and much more.

Find out what’s going on in Brent during November 2011. To get your event listed email tbm@brent.gov.uk or telephone 020 8937 1098.

CHILDREN SING SPANISH Spanish classes for children aged 3 -8, NW6/NW10, www.espanaviva.biz 07976 050 977 THE 2ND WEMBLEY BOYS' BRIGADE & GIRLS' ASSOCIATION Have restarted for the new session. Anchors 58 juniors 8-11 meet 6.15-7.30pm on Thurs.

Company section meet at 7.15-9pm, Park Lane Methodist Church Wembley SATURDAY SUPPLEMENTARY GREEK SCHOOL 10am-1pm, Language and traditional dancing Kingsbury High School, NW9 07967 810 210 PRIDE JUDO CLUB Mons, Weds Chalkhill Community Centre 8-12yrs Mons 7-8pm, Weds 6.30-7.30pm, 12+ Mons 8-9pm, Weds 7.30-8.30pm £3 07985 336 181 DOWN SYNDROME TIGER CUBS Thurs 5-6pm football coaching run by QPR, Woodfield School Genwood Avenue, NW9 020 8740 2585 07815 670 806 4TH BRONDESBURY BROWNIES AND GUIDES Thurs Brownies 6.308pm, Guides 7-8.30pm 07981 174 634

MUM AND TODDLER Thurs 10am-12noon, Preston Mall Community Centre, Kenton £2 020 8204 1148 PARENT TODDLER GROUP Thurs 9-10.30am 50p Barham Primary, Wembley 020 8902 3706 SING AND SIGN CLASSES Mon-Fri, for babies 6-18 months, Willesden Green and Kensal Rise, 07790 955 576 SOCCER TRAINING Fri 6-8pm, for children, first session free Capital City Academy NW10, mdipaola@cyworks.co.uk 3RD WEMBLEY SCOUTS Fris Cubs 7-8.30pm, Scouts 7-9pm Clivedon Hall Clifton Way, Alperton 020 8997 0951 /020 8902 6902 4TH NEASDEN BROWNIES Tues 6pm-7.30pm, St Mary's and St Andrew's Church Hall, Dollis Hill lane, NW2; girls aged 710 only 07794 018 819

COMMUNITY OVER 50s DISCUSSION GROUP Tues 11am-12.30pm The Gallery, Willesden Green Library 020 8452 8739 BRENT FAIRTRADE NETWORK Wed, 30 Nov 7.309:30pm, Brent Town Hall, New members welcome. fairtrade@brent.gov.uk WELSH HARP BOOK 25 Nov 10am-12noon.

Author Geoffrey Hewlett will introduce his new local history book “Welsh Harp Reservoir Through Time” at Kingsbury Library Plus with an illustrated talk. 020 8937 3520 COFFEE MORNING Weds 10.30am12noon, Kingsbury Baptist Church, Slough Lane, Kingsbury, NW9 all welcome.

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BRENT AND HARROW NATIONAL ORGANISATION OF THE WIDOWED 76 Marlborough Hill, HA1 call Rhona 020 8969 3198 BOOK CLUB New group in Wembley Park meeting one evening a month, discussing novels nominated for literary prizes wpbookclub @btinternet.com WEMBLEY HISTORY SOCIETY 18 November at 7.30pm “Rubbish”. A talk by Peter Rousselange. St Andrew's Church Hall, Church Lane (opp. Tudor Gdns), Kingsbury NW9 8RZ. philgrant69 @aol.com KINGSBURY HORTICULTURAL ASSOCIATION The Pavillion, Old Kenton Lane Allotments, Kingsbury, NW9 flower arranging every Weds 8 9.15pm 020 8205 3457 NORTH WEST LONDON WOMEN'S INSTITUTE First Thursday of the month 7.30pm upstairs at the North London Tavern Kilburn High Road NW6 nwlwi@hotmail.co.uk OVER 50s DISCUSSION GROUP Tues 11am-12.30pm The Gallery, Willesden Green Library 020 8452 8739

DANCE DA SALSA ROOM Mons 7.30pm-8.30pm beginners £7; 8.30pm9.30pm bridge the gap classes £10; 9:45pm11.30pm, club and free styling night Heritage Inn Caribbean Rhum Bar & Restaurant, 301 Cricklewood Broadway, London, NW2 CLUB CEROC Tues 8-11pm, £8 plus £2 lifetime membership.

Free beginner's guide DVD, Brent Town Hall, Forty Lane, Wembley, HA9 www.clubceroc.com

020 8933 4350 ADULT STREET DANCE Tues, 7.30-8.30pm, £5.15 Bridge Park Leisure Centre, Stonebridge 020 8937 3730 BELLY DANCING Mons 7.30-8.30pm beginners, 8.30-9.30pm improvers £48/6 weeks £8 drop-in Fitness First 492-498 High Rd, Wembley, www.hayaam .com 07855 362 849.

Tues 8.30-10pm NY Pilates Studio, Lonsdale Rd NW6 020 7372 3490 Sat 2-3pm 105 Salusbury Road NW6, £7 or £50 for 8 sessions eliftarakci@yahoo.co.uk SALSA Mons, 7.30-8.30pm Mambo City salsa £6 St Joseph's Social Club, Empire Way, Wembley salsa@mambocity.co.uk Fris 7.30-8.30pm Willesden Sports Centre Thurs 8.15-9.30pm £4.50 07961 281 989 Mons 6.30-7.30pm Salsasize dance and exercise £4 Chalkhill Community Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley 020 8385 1836 SELF EXPRESSIVE DANCE Tues 8-9.30pm, £7.50, Holy Innocents Church Hall, Bacon Lane 020 8205 6751 TEA DANCE Mons, Weds 1.304.30pm £4 Brent Town Hall, Forty Lane Wembley 020 8937 6206.

Fri 2-4.30 pm Chalkhill Community Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley 020 8385 1836 DANCE AT THE TRICYCLE We'll Meet Again Free activity group for the over 60s, including drama, art, dance and T'ai Chi. 020 7372 6611 TEA DANCE Mon & Thurs 2-4pm King's Hall Community Centre, 155 Harlesden Road, Willesden Green.

Only £1.50.

CUBAN VIBES Salsa classes & club free styling night. Every Mon 7.30-8.30pm Absolute Beginners & Beginners classes £7.00, 8.309.30pm Bridge the Gap classes £7.00, 8:309:30pm Improvers & Intermediates classes £7.00, or two classes for £10.00 9.45-11.30pm, club & free styling night with salsa con timba music to practise your moves Heritage Inn Caribbean Rhum Bar & Restaurant, 301 Cricklewood Broadway, London, NW2 6PG. 07961 281 989 info@cubanvibes.co.uk BALLROOM AND LATIN Mons 7.30-11pm Brent Town Hall, Forty Lane Wembley 020 8855 6868

DRAMA MADHATTERS THEATRE CLUB ‘Way Upstream’

by Alan Ayckbourn 2-4 Dec at Malorees Junior School 020 8452 5239 www.madhatters theatre.org.uk EAST LANE THEATRE CLUB ‘Secondary Cause of Death’ by Peter Gordon 10, 11, 12 Nov and 16, 17, 18, 19 Nov 7.45pm tickets £9 in advance box office 07762 622 215 CHAMELEONS Mons and Thurs 8pm, amateur dramatics Neasden Methodist Church, NW10 07968 965 038 DRAMA WORKHOUSE Saturday Crew workshop for children 1-2pm 7-9 years; 2-4pm 10-12 years; 4-6pm 13-18 years; under 10s £25 a term, over 10s £40 a term; Dudden Hill Centre, 19 Dudden Hill Lane, NW10; Mons adult classes 8-10pm £9.50 Tricycle Theatre, NW6 07958 653 725

ENVIRONMENT KINGSBURY WALKERS Weds 1.55pm, Meet Bush Farm, Slough Lane and Salmon Street junction. 020 8907 2836 BARN HILL CONSERVATION GROUP Suns Fryent Country Park; Tues, Thurs, Sats Roe Green Walled Garden 020 8206 0492 www.bhcg.btck.co.uk

LEARNING WATERCOLOUR PAINTING AND DRAWING FROM STILL LIFE All levels bring your own Materials. A ten week term until 29 Nov, 79pm, call Mary for prices, dates and further info 020 8141 6367 mstreherne@gn.apc.org FRENCH TUITION Native speaker in Kensal Rise, all levels 07762 254 845 BRENT ADULT AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SERVICE Courses for adults from accounts to yoga 020 8937 3990 www.brent.gov.uk /adulteducation SPANISH CLASSES Mon eves, Fri mornings NW6/NW10. www.espan aviva.biz 07976 050 977 COMPUTER TRAINING Free computer training with OCR qualifications for Brent residents aged 14-24 year old Middlesex ITeC on 020 8900 0505.

WORKERS' EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION Thurs 10am classes held in coffee lounge at St John's Church Wembley, entrance via gate in Harrow Road 020 8904 5940

MUSIC ACE CAFE Wed 7 Dec 6-11pm Hot Rod Night with DJ JIMMY GUNTRIP - Entry Free, Sun 18, 7-9pm.

Annual Xmas Carol Service. www.acecafe-london.com

TIMEout ROUNDWOOD PARK BOWLS CLUB New members wanted, membership £40 free coaching Longstone Ave entrance of park 020 8965 2800

Singing lessons and choirs See: Music MANOR AND PHILBEACH SINGERS Tues 7.30 -10pm Goodwill Hall, Chichester Rd, Kilburn Park. No singing experience needed; no auditions 020 8455 8865 SINGING LESSONS Sat-Wed contemporary singing lessons and music theory, beginners to intermediate levels, Neasden Lane 07796 372 499 e_chinners@yahoo.com WILLESDEN GREEN CHOIR Mons 8-10pm. Songs from all over the world, no auditions, first session free Willesden Green Library Centre, Space 2, NW10 2SF. www .vocalitysinging.co.uk

SPORTS & LEISURE SELF DEVELOPMENT 'Free Courses & Seminars': Meditation, Positive Thinking, Overcoming Anger etc Inner Space, 528 High Road, Wembley, HA9 7BS. 020 8903 1911 www.innerspace.org /wembley BINGO Have a chat and a game of Bingo - Saturday 24pm. King's hall Community Centre, 155 Harlesden Road, Willesden Green. Just turn up on the day!

GONG MEDITATION/ SOUND BATH. 1 hours guided meditation with Gongs and Tibetan singing bowls. The first Wednesday and third Tuesday of every month.

7.30pm. NW10 4ELcontact Sandira for details 07940 804 098 TAI CHI Phoenix Tai Chi Tues 1pm at Vale Farm, Wembley 07900 687 498 WOODCOCK PARK BOWLS CLUB Bowls, open days and fetes, Kenton 020 8907 9076

OLDER PERSONS' WALKING GROUP Thurs, 2-3pm Willesden Sports Centre, NW10, run by Age UK Brent 020 8965 7711 ZUMBA! Monday 8-9pm Saturday 10-11am. St Mary & St Andrews Church Hall, Dollis Hill Lane, NW2 6HE £5 per class, no need to book. donnasheehan @sky.com 07957 458 537 LADIES KEEP FIT Weds 7.30-8.30pm Mandhata Centre, 20a Rosemead Avenue, Wembley.

07930 593 988 rupal @classic-creations.info HOCKEY Senior sessions Wednesdays 8-10pm; Juniors (U9-U16) Sundays 10am. Jewish Free School, Kingsbury (The Mall, HA3 9TE).

Gary Thompson on 07946 576 968 www.harrowhc.co.uk SEA URCHINS Thurs 8pm, swimming club for young people and adults with learning difficulties. Willesden Sports Centre, NW10, free, call Jean 020 8452 6912 KINGBURY BOWLS CLUB New members welcome, free coaching and loan of bowls, Eton Grove Open Space.

07505 337 501 RAGGAROBICS Tues 8-9pm, Bridge Park Community Leisure Centre, £5 Jason 07557 123 760 50'S TAI CHI-QIGONG Weds, 1.30-2.30pm, £2.50 beginners Fitness First, Kingsbury 07957 185 367 TAI CHI Tues 10-11.30am suitable for all, £4 dropin or £30 for 10 classes, Chalk Hill Community Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley 020 8385 1836

MUM'S DAYTIME KEEP-FIT Wed,s Thurs & Fri 9.3010.30am Real Fitness London 162 Anson Road, NW2 £5 020 8205 3155 realfitness@hotmail .co.uk NIA Weds, 9.15am workout combing yoga and Alexander Technique.

Roundwood Park Café £5. Gita 07507 850 688 www.nialondon.com BRONDESBURY BOWLING CLUB Evenings and daytime including free tuition, Chatsworth Road 020 8438 0302 WEMBLEY BOWLS CLUB Weds 3pm tuition offered King Edward VII Park, Park Lane Wembley 020 8907 8626 WU SHU KWAN Chinese kickboxing. Sats 3-5pm, Willesden Sports Centre, NW10 07835 244 398 www.wushukwan.com WEMBLEY CRICKET CLUB Sats 10-11am cricket teams and coaching for girls and boys at Oakington Manor School, Wembley 020 8902 6096 COLES GREEN TENNIS CLUB Social and competitive tennis, concessions available Coles Green Road NW2 07590 8304 229 tennisnwlondon @live.co.uk BROTHERS PEARSE CAMOGIE CLUB Ladies' hurling club, all levels welcome, call Mary Cahill 07904 685 276

YOGA Mons-Suns Special Yoga Centre 2a Wrentham Ave, Kensal Rise, 020 8968 1900 www .specialyoga.org.uk Mons 6.30-7.30pm, Thurs 7-8pm, Sun 11am12noon, £40 for 12 sessions, drop-in £10, Gladstone Community Centre, 162 Anson Road 07901 650 763 Weds 10.30am-12.30pm Dudden Hill Community Centre, 19 Dudden Hill Lane, NW10. bhakti yoga free classes 07913 897 406.

Tues 9.20-10.30am Laughter Yoga, Roundwood Park Cafe, NW10. Children free, refreshments provided www.lifebulb.org.

Thurs 7.15pm-8.30pm Evening Laughter Yoga, Nest Cafe, Willesden Green Station, NW2 4QT. £10/£8 www.lifebulb.org

SUDBURY COURT BADMINTON CLUB Thurs 8-10pm, The Mall, Kingsbury 020 8904 6698

VENUES

SUDBURY COURT RUNNING CLUB Tues and Thurs 7.20pm, (1st Tues of month for beginners) meet at Wembley and Sudbury Tennis and Squash Club, Sylvester Road, www.sudburycourt .org.uk 020 8904 8814

BRENT ARCHIVES Ist Floor, Willesden Green Library Centre, NW10 020 8937 3541 archives@brent.gov.uk

TAEKWONDO Mons 7-9pm, Sat 1011am Holy Innocents Church Hall, Bacon Lane Kingsbury 07799 546 428 Tues, 6.30-8pm beginners, 8.30-9pm advanced, St Anne's Hall, 125 Salusbury Rd, NW6 07939 043 580. Weds, 1.30-2.30pm, £2 over 55s, beginners, gentle movements, Fitness First, Kingsbury 07957 185 367

TRICYCLE THEATRE CINEMA AND GALLERY 269 Kilburn High Road, London NW6 Box Office Theatre 020 7328 1000 Cinema 020 7328 1900 Disabled access to auditorium and cafe, induction loop in auditorium Minicom 020 7625 5105

PRESTON PARK BOWLS CLUB Free coaching and loan of bowls Preston Park Recreation Ground, Carlton Avenue East 020 8933 9358

TAEKWONDO Tues 6-9pm, Thurs 67.30pm, Ealing Road Methodist Church 07832 447 763 Mons 6.30-8pm, Weds 6.30-8pm, Cardinal Hinsley School NW10 07832 447 763

QUEENS PARK HARRIERS Tues & Thurs 7-8pm, Willesden Sport Centre www.queenspark harriers.org.uk SHORINJI KEMPO MARTIAL ART Tues 8-9.30pm Church of Ascension, The Avenue, Wembley; Fri 7.30-9pm at St Erconwald's Church Hall, 112 Carlton Avenue East, Wembley 07404 039 087

MIXED KATEDA SELF DEFENCE CLASS Sun, 10.30am-12.30pm, Ark Academy, Bridge Road, Wembley, HA9 9JP WOMEN ONLY KATEDA SELF DEFENCE CLASS Female instructor, Sun 10.30am-12.30pm, Ark Academy, Bridge Road, Wembley, HA9 9JP.

BRENT MUSEUM High Road, NW10 020 8937 3600

PAUL DAISLEY HALL Forty Lane, Wembley, Middx HA9 Box Office 020 8937 6206/6203

WEMBLEY ARENA Box Office 0870 060 0870 www.livenation.co.uk/wembley

LIBRARIES EALING ROAD LIBRARY Coronet Parade, Ealing Road, Wembley HA0 4BA, 020 8937 3560 ealingroadlibrary@brent.gov.uk HARLESDEN LIBRARY Craven Park Road, Harlesden, NW10 8SE 020 8937 3570 harlesdenlibrary@brent.gov.uk KILBURN LIBRARY 42 Salusbury Road, Kilburn NW6 6NN 020 8937 3530 kilburnlibrary@brent.gov.uk KINGSBURY LIBRARY PLUS Kingsbury Road, Kingsbury NW9 9HE 020 8937 3520 kingsburylibrary@brent.gov.uk TOWN HALL LIBRARY Brent Town Hall, King’s Drive, Forty Lane, Wembley HA9 9HU, 020 8937 3500 townhalllibrary@brent.gov.uk

Zumba classes See: Sports & Leisure

WILLESDEN GREEN LIBRARY 95 High Road, Willesden NW10 2SF 020 8937 3400 willesdengreenlibrary@brent.gov.uk

CENTURY BOWLS CLUB Indoor and outdoor bowls, free coaching available, social activities, Logan Road, Wembley 020 8904 3261

WEMBLEY STADIUM Sat 5 November Gillette Four Nations Rugby, 1pm Sat 12 November England vs Spain, 5.15pm

PILATES Mons 7-8pm, Sats 1011am Living Well Health Club, Wembley Plaza Hotel, Empire Way, £5 07903 937 909 Thurs 7.30pm beginner to intermediate. The Lady House, Hay Lane Kingsbury, book in advance Di Hurley 07958 140 003

Tue 15 November England vs Sweden International Friendly, 8pm Sat 10 December Saracens vs Ospreys, 6pm Future dates online 0844 980 8001 www.wembleystadium.com

NOVEMBER 2011

THE BRENT MAGAZINE

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