The Brent Magazine issue 128 November 2012

ISSUE NO.128

FREE FOR PEOPLE WHO LIVE AND WORK IN BRENT

PUBLISHED BY BRENT COUNCIL

Fireworks Night Join in the fun at Roundwood Park

1950’s go off with a bang A look back at past celebrations

NOVEMBER 2012

Contents Features

10 13 16 18 21 23

Welcome

Youth Work Week Meet the people working with Brent’s youngsters

Centre unites old and new View the proposed design for Willesden Green Cultural Centre

Golden memories to treasure A fond look back on summer and a peek at future plans

Coming soon…

Empty shop transformed into business for locals

Libraries on your doorstep

10

Volunteer service is a real page turner

Civic centre UK’s greenest building Find out how you can get a sneak preview

25 Regulars

4 9 25 27 29 31

Update Brent people All in a day’s work

I am always interested, and in fact surprised, to learn about some of the many exciting and innovative things Brent does to improve the borough and the lives of its residents.

Take for instance the latest in a line of successful pop up ventures, page 18, that is providing residents with a head for business with their own shop - free of charge - helping budding entrepreneurs to make their dreams a reality.

Or how about Brent Libraries at Home service which is making life that bit easier for older or vulnerable residents. Volunteers can be found whizzing up and down the borough delivering books, CDs and DVDS to residents who struggle to leave their home,find out how you could join this dedicated bunch on page 21.

And TBM got to spend the afternoon down on one of the boroughs many allotments talking to our new food growing and allotment officer. Turn to page 25 to read about what she is doing to help others with green fingers bag a bit of land.

Until next time, Orla Sedze, Editor, The Brent Magazine

Secret history Competitions Time out

Issue No. 128 November 2012 BDU 6737 10.12 The Brent Magazine contacts Distribution queries and editorial 020 8937 1062 tbm@brent.gov.uk Advertising 020 8937 1076 advertising@brent.gov.uk Published by the London Borough of Brent, Town Hall, Forty Lane, Wembley Middlesex.

21 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.

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

Please ring 020 8937 1062 Cover image: Brent Archive

UPdate

Brent appoints interim Chief Executive Brent’s Chief Executive Gareth Daniel left Brent in September.

Gareth has worked for Brent for 26 years including 14 years as Chief Executive.

Brent has appointed Christine Gilbert CBE as its interim Chief Executive.

Christine is a highly experienced Chief Executive with a track record of success. Most recently she undertook the role of Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector at Ofsted. Prior to this she was

Chief Executive at the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

Before that, she was Director of Education in the London Borough of Harrow.

Christine spent 18 years teaching in comprehensive schools, eight of them as a headteacher. She received a CBE in 2006 for services to education and local government.

Christine starts this month and will remain in post until a permanent replacement is appointed.

Brent’s open spaces flourish at the London in Bloom Awards

Robert Reid, Brent Parks Area Manager collects the awards

Brent has won four awards at the London in Bloom Awards 2012 after the borough’s excellent green spaces and community involvement greatly impressed the judges.

This year Brent won awards in four categories,

including gold for Mapesbury Dell in the Small Park of the Year Award, silver gilt for Fryent Country Park in the Country Park Award, third prize in the prestigious Biodiversity Award, silver gilt and second place in the Large City Award category.

Music to the Mayor’s ears Two young Brent musicians visited City Hall in September where they were awarded a scholarship for four years instrumental tuition

by The Mayor’s Fund for Young Musicians (MFYM).

Mayor scholarship Santhaya Kugathas (10, Violin, Preston Park Primary) MFYM patron Chi-chi Nwanokwu MBE and Tahya Lawrence (10, Clarinet, Salusbury Primary)

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Christine Gilbert Christine Gilbert

Making Brent libraries better Brent is radically improving the library service, our aim is to provide an excellent library service and to do this we need your help!

Please visit your local library from 12 November 2012 to take part in the Public Library User Survey. We will use your views and suggestions to shape the future of Brent libraries.

Your comments have already helped shape recent developments, including: s the creation of more study space in libraries

s buying more bestsellers s changing layouts and refurbishing libraries to make them more welcoming s increased activities for children and families in libraries and more involvement with the community s better access to online services such as E-books and 24/7 online enquiry service.

For further information contact libraries@brent.gov.uk or call 020 8937 5619.

£2.8m newly refurbished college campus opens in Wembley The College of North West London officially opens its newly refurbished campus in Wembley Park this month.

The campus, called Crescent House, has opened its doors to students providing them with the very best facilities

which includes state-of-theart learning facilities such as high-tech computer suites, a welcoming reception area and even includes a Japanesestyle landscaped garden for students to relax in between their studies.

UPdate

Town hall customer service changes From Monday 12 November Brent Customer Service will no longer operate from Brent Town Hall.

Brent is expanding its Registration and Nationality service at the town hall to meet increased demand and moving town hall customer services to Brent House.

Brent House is located at 349-357 High Road, Wembley, HA9 6BZ. Its opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.

The Blue Badge and Freedom Pass mobility assessment service will still operate at the town hall.

Meet Kilburn Library’s artist in residence

Anya Beaumont

Visual artist Anya Beaumont is working with residents as Kilburn Library’s first ever artist in residence.

Anya, who will be there until mid November, is based at the library in Salusbury Road on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. She has taught art workshops to residents, run a Big Draw event, delivered classes at Granville Youth Plus Arts in South Kilburn as well as at a day centre for older people. A display of their work

is now on show in the library.

Kilburn Library has recently reopened after refurbishment and the project complements its modern look, which includes a new interior, furniture and study area. Anya’s work highlights features of the library and the surrounding area, combining photography, cut work and collage – utilising any waste paper that the library produces or visitors wish to donate.

Artwork shows Brent’s commitment to Fairtrade An artwork made up of more than 1,000 plastic bottle tops has been unveiled to show Brent’s commitment to Fairtrade and celebrate its status as a Fairtrade Borough.

The work, which was created by Cricklewood based artist Sally Buchanan and commissioned by Brent Fairtrade Network, has been installed in Hazel Road Open Space in Kensal Green next to the Harrow Road.

Brent won recognition as a Fairtrade Borough earlier this year after campaigning for eight years.

Artists and network members in Kensal Green.

Brent’s pioneering pre-payment card goes Stateside Brent looks set to be the first council to introduce a revolutionary, prepayment MasterCard especially for users of care services – the move is so ground breaking, it’s already earned us a mention in the Wall Street Journal.

The direct payment card, which is a chip and PIN card, can be used by clients to pay for things like carers, transport to and from medical appointments or anything else that’s been agreed on their personal care plan.

Previously customers had to pay for their care from a monthly allowance and keep a record of all payments. Now a record of transactions is automatically maintained by the system every time the user makes a transaction, making it simpler and more efficient for the client and the council.

For more information call 020 8937 4157.

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UPdate

Celeb tucks into meal with wheels John Sergeant and Brent resident Doreen Meacher at lunch

Well respected broadcaster, journalist and former Strictly Come Dancing star, John Sergeant paid a visit to the borough in October to sample the food offered by Apetito, the company that supplies Brent’s meals on wheels to older and vulnerable residents.

After having a bite to eat at their depot in Oxgate Lane, Cricklewood, John jumped in the Apetito van to personally deliver a piping hot meal to Raymond Chick and Doreen Meacher at their homes. John’s visit to Brent was arranged

by Apetito to mark National Community Meals Week.

Uniting the community in memory of others

£1.4 million fine for landlord who ignored planning law

In preparation for the boroughs annual Holocaust Memorial Day service Brent is inviting members of our diverse community to help plan this important occasion.

The Holocaust Memorial Day service will be held at Brent Town Hall on Sunday 27 January 2013 between 11am12noon.

The day is an opportunity to remember those who lost their lives during the Holocaust and

The flats were overcrowded and in a poor condition

those affected by genocide all over the world.

Why not join the team helping to organise the service by becoming part of our advisory forum and help us to engage with your community.

The forum will meet at 6pm on 7 November 2012, 5 December 2012, 9 January 2013 at Brent Town Hall.

For more information email festivals@brent.gov.uk or call 020 8937 1097.

A judge ordered a Brent landlord to pay the record sum of £1.438 million for turning a house into 12 flats without planning consent following a two year intensive

investigation by Brent Council.

Salah Ali, 52, from Wembley, must pay the sum within six months or face a ten year prison sentence, a judge ordered in September, after he continuously flouted planning regulations in the borough for the last ten years.

The £1.438 million order is believed to be the highest confiscation order granted for a planning offence in the country and is based on the assumed benefit that Mr Ali received from breaching planning regulations.

Road safety aware Brent schools scoop Transport for London awards!

Young people pay their respects at memorial service

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Staff and pupils at three primary schools are on cloud nine after being awarded beacon status at the Transport for London Awards last month.

St Joseph’s Infants School, St Joseph’s Junior School and Carlton Vale Infants School were among 20 other schools across London to win the accolade for having the best school road safety travel plans in place.

UPdate

Queens Parade is voted top shop Voted in Time Out as one of nine best shopping locations in London, Queens Parade, situated at the bottom of Walm Lane, recently celebrated its extension until December.

Opened in March 2012, as part of Brent’s vision to rejuvenate Willesden High Road, Queens Parade was filled by local people wanting to try out business ideas.

With the lease extended to December 2012, the seven remaining businesses were recently joined by local charity Elders Voice who have opened the gardening shop Floral and Hardy.

Queens Parade of 12 shops includes; Jardins D’EDEN, who stock handmade soap and essential oils, Vintage Green, specialists in vintage clothing and styling and Punch and Juicy who sell juice and hold healthy living workshops.

To enjoy all the stores visit 1-12 Queens Parade, Willesden High Road, NW2 5HT.

Fun run A whopping 264 people took part in Brent’s 1.5k and 5k Fun Run and Walk in Fryent Country Park which was supported by Sainsburys.

Massive digger reaches Brent to help keep London’s lights on A giant boring machine, nicknamed Evelyn, reached Kensal Green in September much to the delight of engineers from the National Grid.

Evelyn is digging 19 km of the 32 km London Power Tunnels project which will provide an easy to maintain underground electricity superhighway and help ensure Londoners are kept connected to safe and reliable electricity supplies.

2012 Carers Survey If you are a carer of a vulnerable adult receiving services or support from the council then you may get a survey in the post this month.

The Department of Health (DOH) has developed a survey and asked local authorities to send it to carers to find out if our services are helping you.

Brent is writing to a randomly chosen sample of carers who have been assessed or reviewed by us in the last 12 months.

All responses will be treated in the strictest confidence and

the results will be used to assess the quality of the services we provide and indicate how we should improve our services and support to carers.

The DOH will use the findings to get a picture of carers and the need for support services nationally.

If you come across one in the post, please, help us make our service better by taking part.

For more information contact Beverley Applewhaite on 020 8937 2122 or email beverley.applewhaite@brent. gov.uk

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BRENTpeople

Root camp A Brent mother, Cassia Kidron, has created a new cookery course called Root Camp, which aims to teach 13-21 year olds to grow and prepare their own food.

Words RACHEL GARDNER, photographs JUSTIN THOMAS. Where did the idea for Root Camp come from?

It was when I realised my kids were going to leave home without any cooking skills, despite having a mother who does a lot of cooking. I knew it was urgent to teach them how to cook, but I wanted to make it fun, social and something that fitted into the teenage experience.

How does the course work?

We want to create a new generation of thoughtful cooks and consumers. During the courses youngsters divide their time between field and kitchen, working on an organic farm. They forage, fish, make sausages, work in a kitchen garden and plant seeds and vegetables. They learn how to cook earthy, healthy and delicious food that everyone eats together.

What do you enjoy about teaching youngsters?

It’s great to see them walk away able to make something from scratch. We had one boy come to camp who had only ever eaten ready meals. He left able to make a soup and said he had never tasted anything like it.

What does the future hold for Root Camp?

I really want it to grow so that we reach as many kids as possible. I think they are a great focal point because they are about to go on a journey into adult life and are open to new ideas. We’ve recently got funding from Ocado to sponsor eight students and they’ve pledged to fund 20 places per year, which is fantastic news.

Root Camp is now running after-school supper clubs in local kitchens. Working in small groups, youngsters prepare fast, healthy and seasonal dishes for a three-course meal that is then eaten together.

For more information email office@rootcamp.co.uk or call 07816 815 656.

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Youth work From November 5, organisations and people across the country will be celebrating the achievements and impact of youth work. To mark National Youth Work Week, the Brent Magazine met three youth workers to see how they make a difference to the lives of the young people they work with.

Words by

The Dance Teacher

JASON GRIMSLEY

Name: Dominic Ennis

Photos by

Job: Dance tutor/ youth worker

ISABELLE PLASSCHAERT

Years in youth work: Nine

and

STUART EMERSON

Main image: Young people bust a move at Dominic’s dance class

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NOVEMBER 2012

The best bit about your job: I can give the right skills to young people to help them with their future development within dance or everyday living.

Youth centres are a community hub for young people, offering a place to socialise freely without so many boundaries and rules.

Over 250 young people attend Brent’s three main youth centres as well as the smaller venues every week.

Wembley’s Poplar Grove Centre offers evening sessions in activities as diverse as Taekwando, cookery and netball.

Dominic Ennis teaches dance there.

Up to 20 teenagers pay just £1 a session to learn street and contemporary dance.

Dominic enters them into shows and competitions and they can also pass accredited qualifications.

The 28-year-old, who is originally from Stonebridge, said: “We educate them to work together. Kids from different areas come together with no hostility or arguing, just mutual respect.

“They gain a lot of confidence. We have some who didn’t say much at first but they come out of their shell and learn to socialise and give their views.

“I work to challenge their behaviour.

Some have built up anger but they express themselves through dance and release it.”

In his spare time, Dominic also mentors young people. He said: “I love working with young people. I want to give back the skills I have learnt.”

week The YOT Officer Name: Rita Siddique Job: Youth Offending Team (YOT) officer Years in youth work: Eight Best advice I’ve had: Learn how to communicate at all levels – from the staff room to the boardroom and never take anyone for granted.

Rita Siddique works in Brent’s Youth Offending Team. Rita is at the frontline of dealing with local young people who have offended.

The Youth Offending Service works with up to 500 young people a year who are sentenced by courts. Along with its partners, it has helped cut the number of teenagers offending for the first time by a third over three years.

YOT worker Rita supports local young people while in prison and helps prepare them for release. They often need help with drug and alcohol misuse, education or mental health issues.

Rita said: “You have to be able to communicate with them. I find a common ground – whether it is talking about food, travel or Shakespeare.

I get them to open up and talk.

“I say to them ‘look at where you are now, this is not the place for you, you can make something of yourself’.

It is about the choices that they make.

I show them that there are other options and help them to access resources.

“If I see them on the streets afterwards, it is a success. They may be going to college or just McDonalds, but at least they are going somewhere, and are not inside.”

The Personal Advisor Name: Dean Hatfield Job: Personal Advisor Years in youth work: 13 Best bit about your job: When I manage to raise a young persons career or educational aspirations.

Dean Hatfield gives careers advice to local young people who are not in education, training or employment (NEET).

Based in Brent Customer Services offices and job and youth centres around the borough, the personal adviser works closely with colleagues who help teenagers with the process of searching for, and applying for, work.

Dean said: “Young people who are NEET do just drop in but we also adopt a targeted approach, identifying those who need more support. We ring them up or call round to their homes and say ‘why don’t you come in and see us?’

“We diagnose the support they need to move on. For example, it could be putting them in touch with a college or intensive one to one support to help them apply for jobs.”

This kind of targeted work has helped ensure that young people are more likely to be in work, education or training in Brent than most other places in the UK. Dean said: “I want to see young people realise what they can do and achieve their utmost potential.”

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Bin your landfill bin If you have more than one landfill waste bin and give one up ...

... we will give you one free roll of caddy liners for your food waste.

Many of you may have more than one landfill waste bin, but these days most of your household waste can be recycled or composted. Isn’t it time to bin that extra bin?

We will collect the landfill waste bin for free and in return we’ll give you a free roll of 26 compostable caddy liners to wrap your food waste. That means you can recycle even more!

If you want to take advantage of this limited promotion, please contact us.

020 8937 5050 recyclemore@brent.gov.uk www.brent.gov.uk/recyclemore

Centre unites old and new Proposed designs for the new-look Willesden Green Cultural Centre have been unveiled following consultation with local people.

Willesden’s proposed new cultural centre will link the past to the future, now that the new building has been remodeled to include the old Victorian library.

The changes to the design were made alongside a series of council-run workshops, where residents were given the chance to have their say about how the building could best meet the needs of the community.

The workshops, which ran throughout September, looked at how different groups from the community use the facilities, including: families with children; teenagers; seniors and those from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Residents who attended the ‘seniors’ consultation group felt the most important issue was the need for adequate, well-maintained space in which community groups could hold meetings and events.

In the migrant and ethnic minority group session many of those attending expressed the need for the new building to bring people from different backgrounds together, through activities that allowed them to learn about each other’s cultures.

Andy Donald, Director of Regeneration and Major Projects, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to build a new state-of-the-art facility for Brent without any direct capital investment.

“We have listened to a wide range of views from the community and improved the proposals in line with the many ideas. Feedback has been encouraging and many consider the new design a vast improvement.”

A revised planning application incorporating the new design was submitted in October. If it is approved, the old Victorian library will be refurbished and used as a public room for meetings, exhibitions and ceremonies.

“Feedback has been encouraging and many consider the new design a vast improvement.”

Artist’s illustration of the interior

The new centre would have an increased number of study spaces than at present. There will also be dedicated space for pre-school and primary school children, as well as a dedicated teen space for study breaks, and plenty of quiet corners.

Also included in the building will be a new community gallery and exhibition space for local artists, a purpose-built Brent Museum, a bigger Brent Archive, a café and prayer room.

It is hoped developer Galliford Try will start work on construction early next year. However, the design stage is not over and there are still lots of opportunities to get involved in the detailed look of the building.

For more information visit www.brent.gov.uk/regeneration

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Working with you Burglary can be costly and devastating. But with a few simple measures you can dramatically reduce the chances of it happening to you! Knowing what burglars look for when choosing their target will help you identify weak spots in your home’s security.

s Use timer switches linked to lights and a radio when you are out

Partnership Days Burglary prevention partnership days will be held in Harlesden, Kilburn and Wembley.

OfďŹ cers from the Police, Victim Support, Brent Council, Age UK and the Community Safety Partnership will be on hand to provide advice and information on keeping homes safe.

You will also have the opportunity to have your property marked: s

The Hermes machine will property mark smaller items (phones, ipads, etc)

s

Advice on registering larger items will be available (electrical and household goods)

s

Bike marking will be available

s

UV markers will be distributed so you can mark your own property with advice on how to do it.

Do your part to keep your street safer and join Neighbourhood Watch.

Call 07502 426038 or email info@bnwa.org For daily updates and information follow the Police on Twitter@MPSBrent or register at www.neighbourhoodlink.met.police.uk

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s Close and lock all doors and windows, even if out for just a few minutes

s Do not leave keys, documents or valuables near doors, windows or letterboxes

s Keep side gates locked and bins behind them until collection day

to prevent burglary s Install a visible burglar alarm and low level ‘dusk until dawn’ lighting

s Keep sheds and outbuildings locked, with ladders and garden tools secured

s Mark or etch your property and register items at www.immobilise.com

!

Always check who’s at the door and don’t open if you feel anxious

s Maintain high sides

s Cancel milk or other deliveries, and ask a neighbour to remove your post if you are going away

and rear boundaries to prevent easy access, and low front boundaries making it difficult for burglars to act without being seen

For more help and advice visit www.metbumblebee.org or go to your local police station or Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Report a burglary on 101. In an emergency call 999.

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Golden memories to treasure and more gems to come Don’t know about you but we can’t remember a more exciting and joyous summer in Brent.

Words by

16

NANCY LUDWIG

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NOVEMBER 2012

First there was the Jubilee Street Party, then Brent Dance Month, followed by the Flame event and to round it all off, our glorious Golden Summer in Gladstone Park.

These hugely successful parties – attracting thousands of people of all ages, nationalities and religions – were all part of the Brent Celebrates programme, an exciting, new initiative to rejoice in the diversity of our amazing borough, through a mixture of inclusive cultural, educational and art events, exhibitions and happenings.

As winter takes hold, we thought we’d look back and bask in summer’s past glories, take a look at what you had to say and look forward to the veritable feast of Brent Celebrates events to come.

On Her Majesty’s service On Sunday, 3 June we transformed Wembley Arena Square into a buntingstrewn backdrop for the ultimate street party, marking the Diamond Jubilee, with a live link up on a huge screen to the Queen’s Pageant on the Thames.

The festivities coincided with the nationwide Big Lunch celebration, organised by the Eden Project to get communities to grow and share their own produce. Party-goers were encouraged to bring a picnic to share with their fellow revellers or sample the delicious, locally produced food on sale from around the world.

“Brilliant atmosphere.”

Take your partners

Golden moments

July was dedicated to dance in all its various and wonderful forms at Brent Dance Month 2012; which kicked off with a high energy launch event called Dance Explosion, at the newly refurbished Ealing Road Library on 1 July.

Brent Dance Month brought everything from Nigerian tango to Belly dancing with Baby to venues across the borough.

High points included the tour of residential homes by mature ladies' dance troupe the Caribbean Quadrille Dancers and a performance of ‘Physical Ballet’ a partnership project with English National Ballet that fused the speed and daring of parkour with the physicality of ballet.

Over 10,000 flocked to Gladstone Park on 9 September for our grand Paralympic finale; the Golden Summer event.

The glorious day; which mixed high adrenaline sports, open mic sessions, beat boxing and street circus skills, also featured live music from over 20 bands in the Bandstand Marathon. Olympic mascots Wenlock and Mandeville were there too to say a fond farewell to a fantastic season of sports and pageantry.

“Thanks for organising such an enjoyable day.”

Flame-ing good fun!

On a red hot day in July, we marked the passing of the Olympic Torch through Brent with a sizzlin’ party in King Edward VII Park.

‘Brent Celebrates the Flame’ was a family-friendly day of dance, music, great food and creative fun that attracted 7,000.

But the real showstopper was Sacrilege a touring inflatable Stonehenge by Jeremy Deller.

“Great event, more please.”

If you don’t mind us saying so, we think this year’s events have been a great success and have really set the tone for next year.

We’ll have our heads down for the next few months planning the next big events but here’s a taste of what’s to come to whet your appetite.

Coming soon…

Crash, bang, wallop!

Fireworks on 5 November at Roundwood Park when we light the fuse on our free pyrotechnic and laser show. Gates open at 7pm and the display starts at 8.30pm.

International Food Day

Get involved Brent Celebrates is the success it is because of our talented, vibrant and enthusiastic community and our generous sponsors. So if you fancy making your mark on the next event either by contributing to it or sponsoring it send an email, with your suggestions to festivals@brent.gov.uk And don’t forget to visit www.brent.gov.uk/brentcelebrates for the latest updates too.

Grub’s up when we celebrate all things foodie in 2013. …and look out for – film and music festivals, exhibitions and sporty events over the next 12 months.

“Definitely visit next year, keep up the good work.”

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Early Christmas present for entrepreneurs coming soon…

A revolutionary way of bringing empty shops back to use by allowing entrepreneurs with bags of ideas, rather than bags of cash, use of a shop for free has proved so popular Brent Council has extended its lease till Christmas.

The Coming Soon Club offers people in Wembley a temporary ‘Meanwhile’ lease in a once derelict shop on Wembley Hill Road. It has already been used as a hat shop, after school club, vintage clothes shop, film studio, art gallery and a working theatre as different Wembley residents get a chance to test out their business ideas.

One such entrepreneur to bounce some ideas off the Coming Soon crew, and bag the shop, was Natalie Clarke, 27, who founded ‘On the Circuit’, a place to develop and showcase new art.

Natalie said: “It’s been a great opportunity to be able to use a shop front space to trial my idea. It was amazing how many artistic people I was able to meet just in my first week at the Club and it really highlights that there is a great wealth of talent in Wembley and Brent.

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“It really highlights that there is a great wealth of talent in Wembley and Brent” – Entepreneur Natalie Clarke (left)

“Being able to use The Coming Soon

As well as providing business opportunities

Club as a base to run events and to

the scheme has been equally successful at

showcase what was on has been absolutely

offering training and volunteer experiences.

brilliant. It has really allowed us to build

Desmond Harris, who lives round the

up a network of contacts and also shows

corner from The Coming Soon Club, started

that we can use that space very differently

volunteering at the shop this summer and

from the way it was used before and really

has just been taken on as shop manager. He

shows what we can do with some of the

thanked Meanwhile Space and Brent Council

empty shops on the high street.”

for getting The Coming Soon Club going

Brent has already had success with a number of these short term spaces

saying: “You have all brought a great sense of community back to Wembley.”

popping up across the borough, including

The Coming Soon Club, run by social

the creation of the South Kilburn Studios,

enterprise company Meanwhile Space in

Queens Park parade of shops and the

partnership with Brent Council now has

Library Lab which all sprang into action

145 members, each of whom has a creative

creating jobs and business opportunities.

or business idea it would like to bring to

The Coming Soon Club hopes to move

life in Wembley.

into more empty shops in Wembley this winter so look out for the tell-tale ‘I wish

Visit www.comingsoonclub.co.uk or pop into the Coming Soon Club at 5-7 Wembley Hill

this was a....’ logo which means something

Road where you are sure to find like-minded people offering advice and inspiration.

new and exciting will soon be popping up.

Hat maker Dorinda and volunteer Desmond

Got a business idea?

Visit www.comingsoonclub.co.uk to download an application form and make your pitch. Successful applicants will have access to plenty of support from Meanwhile Space and other Coming Soon Club members to help with logistics and marketing, but you must be prepared to plan and run the business yourself. The Coming Soon team have also just launched a handbook called ‘Meanwhile in Wembley’ (available on their website) and run a series of workshops to help new businesses get off the ground.

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IST

2

01

EL E

OR AL CT

REG

Making your mark

ER 2

If your name is not on Brent’s electoral register you will not be able to vote at an election There is still time to complete and return the registration form, but you must do so by 23 November

For more information visit

www.brent.gov.uk/democracy

YOUR VOTE COUNTS DON’T LOSE IT

Libraries on your doorstep To residents who are carers, frail or disabled and not able to visit a library the volunteers at ‘Brent Libraries at Home’ deliver a vital service to their doorstep.

To many residents the knock on their door from a volunteer carrying a bag bulging with library books for them is a visit which they look forward to more than any other.

The volunteer is from Brent Libraries at Home and he is delivering books, large print titles, CDs and DVDs. It’s free and for anyone such as a carer, a person with a disability or ill-health or even a frail older person who can’t visit a library alone. The service is also open to people who have children or parents with a disability. A member can order any item from Brent Libraries’ catalogue and it will be delivered.

“I know that many of the people I deliver to really look forward to getting their books,” says volunteer George Branch. “When they open the door you can see by their smile what it means to them. I have one customer who orders about 30 books a week. Instead of watching TV they are active and keeping up with the interests they have always had.”

There is also an outreach service which drops off books to sheltered housing, nursing and care homes, hostels and community centres in Brent; all staffed by volunteers. Many volunteers work just a day or two a week for a few hours and come from all ages and backgrounds.

Brent Libraries at Home is looking for more volunteers.

“I would say to anybody to try volunteering once and you’ll see how worthwhile it is,” says volunteer Keith Pearce, who volunteered after caring for his mother.

All of the service’s volunteers have been CRB checked.

You must not allow anyone into your home who does not carry Brent Council ID.

If you would like Brent Libraries at Home to deliver books or to volunteer call 020 8937 3460 email libraries@brent.gov.uk or visit www.brent.gov.uk/libraries

Volunteer Paul delivers books to customer Janet in Wembley.

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Renew a permit Pay a fine Instant and secure

Brent

www.brent.gov.uk/parking

Civic centre is greenest public building in the UK Brent’s much anticipated civic centre is scheduled to open its doors to the public in summer 2013. The building will be a focal point for Brent’s diverse community. Words by NADIA KHAN As well as being a brilliant place to visit and

reduction in carbon emissions and the total

is a truly impressive project that not only

work, it was recently announced that the

energy consumed is estimated to be less

considers the

Civic Centre received a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’

than half of a conventional similar building.

environment but the community we

rating for design from the Building Research

The civic centre will have an indoor winter

serve; the two are inextricably linked. The

Establishment, the world’s foremost

garden as well as a landscaped outdoor

community is central to the success of the

environmental assessment award for building

garden so that visitors can experience the

project and we want them to feel a sense

projects. Brent’s Civic Centre is now officially

enjoyment of a natural environment all

of ownership and pride. When I speak to

the greenest public office building in the UK.

year round.

people there is a real positive vibe about the

“From the outset we have worked hard to

The building will also have green roofs

innovate and introduce design solutions

which are covered with vegetation. These

to deliver a building with the highest

are not only aesthetically pleasing but have

sustainability performance,“ explained Aktar

enormous environmental value such as

Choudhury, Civic Centre Programme Director.

reducing heat loss and energy consumption,

“It was important to leave a positive

filtering pollutants out of the air and help

legacy for generations to come and set the standard for public sector buildings.”

The civic centre will see a 33 per cent

civic centre and the possibilities it will bring.”

You are invited to have a look around the civic centre on 9 and 10 November 2012. To book a tour visit www.brent.gov.uk/civiccentre

to reduce affects on those with asthma.

Cllr George Crane lead member for Regeneration and Major Projects added: “This

“This is a truly impressive project that not only considers the environment but the community we serve.”

Illustration of the interior of your new civic centre.

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Change a child’s life If you’ve been asking yourself if fostering or adoption is for you, why not talk to us?

Call, or come along to one of our information evenings: Thursday 1 November or Thursday 6 December 6.30pm start The Unity Centre, 103 Church Road, NW10 9EG 020 8937 4538

www.brent.gov.uk/fas

Town Hall customer service changes From Monday 12 November 2012 Brent Customer Services will no longer operate at Brent Town Hall.

You can visit Brent Customer Services at Brent House instead for information or advice about the following services: • housing and council tax benefits • council tax • school admissions • recycling and waste • planning • social care • general advice and information.

The address of the office is Brent House, 349-357 High Road, Wembley, HA9 6BZ. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Brent Council’s Registration and Nationality Service as well as the Blue Badge and Freedom Pass mobility assessment service will continue to be based at Brent Town Hall.

Remember, it may be quicker to make an online enquiry to Brent Customer Services at customer.services@brent.gov.uk or visit www.brent.gov.uk

Photos posed by models www.johnbirdsall.co.uk

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ALL IN Aday’s

work

Green guardian From advising on plot sizes, to dealing with pesky pests Brent Council’s green fingered officer Vanessa Hampton’s job is as much about nurturing relationships as it is about cultivating and improving the borough’s allotments.

As Brent Council’s food growing and allotments officer Vanessa oversees the borough’s 21 allotment sites. All together that’s over 1,000 plots and allotment holders day-to-day who she works with as well as the Brent Allotment Forum.

“Allotments foster a sense of community,” says Vanessa. “I’m out and about visiting all the allotment sites, and I see them as places which are not only great for growing food, but where people have a common interest and neighbours help neighbours.”

The allotment holders tell her about practical matters to make sure sites are well-maintained. “I’ll discuss pretty much everything with them, from fencing and plot measurements to composting and advice on growing different crops,” she explains.

“If an allotment plot hasn’t been tended for quite a while, I’ll speak with a site representative or the plot holder about how we can get it back into use quickly.”

Vanessa, who has a Royal Horticultural Society qualification, also advises holders about dealing with pests and diseases, encouraging environmentally friendly solutions such as companion planting.

“French marigolds and garlic planted among tomatoes work well together. They protect the tomatoes by attracting hoverflies. They’ll eat the green and black fly pests which attack plants and spread diseases,” she says.

Vanessa’s job is to also ensure that other sites outside of allotments can be used for food growing. “We are still inviting new applications to

Main image: Brent’s food growing and allotments officer Vanessa Hampton.

Inset: Brent Allotments Forum chairman Donald Leon-Soon and Tenterden Close Allotments in Kenton.

join the allotment waiting list, but there is a high demand for them in some areas. So as part of the new Food Growing and Allotment Strategy we’re encouraging other food growing places.

For more information, visit www.brent.gov.uk/allotments

Some are small – just a few grow bags on empty land. We have

or contact us on parks.service@brent.gov.uk

around 30 in Brent and more to come; it’s a very exciting time.”

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Brent Celebrates

Fireworks Night Free fireworks and laser show 5 November 8.30pm Roundwood Park, Harlesden Road NW10 Gates open 7pm Display 8.30pm • Close 9.30pm

Thanks to

Funfair 1pm – 10.30pm from 26 October – 5 November Please remember no pets, no personal fireworks, no alcohol Hot food and ice cream on sale Leave the car at home, there is no car park Nearest tube stations: Neasden, Dollis Hill, Willesden Green and Willesden Junction Buses: 52, 98, 206, 226, 297

Brent

www.brent.gov.uk/festivals

SECREThistory

The 1950’s go off with a bang Despite the cold and the darkness Fireworks night remains as popular today as it was 60 years ago. A firm family favourite, fireworks never fail to get the young and the young at heart gawping at the sky in amazement. This month, we take a look at how Brent residents did it – 1950’s style.

In Willesden people lit large bonfires,

surfaces hadn’t been damaged. On one

some on bomb sites and others on

occasion, in 1963, a bonfire at Claremont

residential roads.

Road, Kilburn, proved so large that the

Kingsbury and Wembley with Wembley

council removed it before it could be lit.

Hospital holding a display for child patients.

East Willesden Young Conservatives held an annual barbecue at Walm Lane

This naturally disappointed a lot of children,

Conservative Club which was filmed by

and led to suggestions that there should be

the BBC in 1959.

a municipal display.

Some of the larger bonfires kept

Businesses made the most of the

could be heard all over the borough.

Bonfire Night was generally quieter in

However it was not long until health and safety concerns were highlighted.

Mr A Wooder, then Middlesex Fire and Ambulance Service’s Chief Officer,

Willesden Council busy. As 5 November

event with cinemas organising children’s

pointed out the dangers of both bonfires

approached council workmen cleared away

competitions for the best Guy and shops

and fireworks.

loose timber from slum clearances to limit

raking in money from firework sales.

the amount of kindling, but people still

By 4 November Brent residents were

Although Fire Service call-outs declined over the period 1955-65 (with a 75 per cent

found quantities of wood, and added old

already in the party mood, local papers,

drop in fires attended between 1957 and

furniture as well.

such as the Willesden Chronicle, regularly

1958) there remained an eight-fold increase

The day after Bonfire Night workmen

reported how noisy it was with people

in call-outs on 5 November compared to the

would clear the debris and check that road

letting off a barrage of fireworks which

rest of the month.

NOVEMBER 2012

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Get your car ready for winter with our FREE 40-point Maintenance & Safety Check.

Oh, and a cup of tea and a biscuit for you (it’s just part of our service, you see).

• Detailed report generated for your records

Tony Fowkes Automobiles

• Free advice and tips from our technicians

Come: 18 Corby Road, Park Royal, NW10 7AH Call: 020 8965 5014 Click: TonyFowkesAutomobiles.com

• Takes around 30 minutes

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Please visit our website for a map of our location.

We’re close to Asda, Park Royal.

Think car, think Tony Fowkes Automobiles Service • Diagnostics • MOT • Body • Paint

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THE BRENT MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2012

Advertise here from only £275 and reach 99,000 households.

Brent

advertising@brent.gov.uk OR CALL 020 8937 1076

COMPETITIONS

Win tickets to this year’s Ideal Home Show at Christmas 2012 The countdown to Christmas begins with this year’s Ideal Home Show at Christmas 2012, running from the 14-18 November, at London’s Earls Court, and we’ve got ten pairs of tickets up for grabs!

Back for its second year and hosted by celebrity ambassadors; Laurence LlewelynBowen, Suzi Perry, Myleene Klass, Olly Smith and Gino D’Acampo. The Ideal Home Show at Christmas will offer a series of themed room sets, interiors and furnishings, home improvements and outdoor living, technology and gadgets, and gifts and decoration ideas, as well as fashion and beauty and food and drink.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy a traditional Christmas market, a variety of festive food and drink, and a three course tasting menu at the Winter Restaurant, all in the festive surroundings which will feature a special Dancing on Ice Skating Rink, a bandstand filled with Christmas choirs and live performances by a range of West End Musicals, providing a great festive day out for the whole family.

To be in with a chance tell us:

How many years has the Ideal Home Show been running?

An all day ticket starts at £12 and can be booked either online at www.idealhomeshowchristmas.co.uk or by calling the Ticket Hotline on 0844 209 7330.

Terms & Conditions: 1. This offer is only open to UK residents. 2. Complimentary tickets are valid for one day only, on any one day of the show between the 14th–18th November 2012 at London's Earls Court. 3. Tickets are non transferable. 4. Complimentary tickets obtained through this offer may not be duplicated. 5. All tickets will be scanned on entry to the show

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).

Competition deadline is Friday 9 November 2012 Last months winners Personalised James Degale Memorabilia: Jean Harper. Wembley Stadium Memorabilia: Michelle Dovey

Win tickets to George Irvin Funfair Brent Council has teamed up with the George Irvin Funfair to give away ten one day passes, worth £50 each, to use at any of their funfairs at Roundwood Park in 2013.

Winners can spin, whirl or scream their way around the boroughs favourite funfair next time it comes to Brent.

Anyone who can’t wait until then can enjoy all the fun of the fair when George and company pull up at Roundwood Park until 5 November which is when Brent will celebrate Fireworks Night.

For over 25 years Irvin Leisure has supplied funfairs in Brent and across the country providing rides and thrills.

To win a one day pass just tell us:

Where will Brent celebrate Fireworks Night?

NOVEMBER 2012

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TIMEout

What’s going on…

Your guide to what’s on in Brent during November 2012.

CHILDREN

THE 2ND WEMBLEY BOYS’ BRIGADE & GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION

LITTLE STARS DANCE CLASESS Weekly dance & performing arts classes for 2-8 yrs at Hazel Road Community Centre, NW10. Call Kirstie on 07949 136 224

Anchors 5-8, juniors 8-11 meet 6.15-7.30pm Thurs. Company section meet 7.15-9pm. Park Lane Methodist Church Wembley www.parklane methodist.org.uk

BABY BOP

DRAMA WORKHOUSE

Local weekly song & dance class for baby’s to pre-schoolers. Every Thursday at 10am (excluding half terms).

St Mary & St Andrews Church Hall, Dollis Hill, NW2. Call Debbie on 07903 563 660.

Sats crew workshop for children 1-2pm 7-9 yrs; 2-4pm 10-12 yrs; 4-6pm 13-18 yrs; under 10s £25 a term, over 10s £40, Dudden Hill Centre, 19 Dudden Hill Lane, NW10; Adults Mons 8-10pm £9.50 Tricycle Theatre, NW6 07958 653 725

HILLSIDE PERFORMING ARTS

STREET/COMMERCIAL DANCE CLASSES

Free street dance classes for 8-16 yr olds every Sat 1-2pm. Children’s piano lessons available at Hillside Hub NW10 8LE, Cherrelle 07506 198 999 www. hillsideperforming arts.com

Thurs 7:30-8:30pm, age 11+, Kings Hall Community Centre, 115 Harlesden Rd, Willesden Green £5 call 07889 869 900 annalynn .dance@gmail.com

SOCCER TRAINING

TODDLER PICASSOS

Fri 6-8pm, for children, first session free. Capital City Academy NW10. mdipaola@cyworks.co.uk

Painting, water play, play dough & songs. 15 mnths - 3 yrs. First class free. 8 Station Terrace, Kensal Rise, London NW10 5RT. Phone to book 07903 638 817 www.minipicassos.co.uk

SING SPANISH Spanish classes for children aged 3-8. NW6/ NW10. 07976 050 977 www.espanaviva.biz

FRESH ARTS

LGBT YOUTH CLUB

THEATRE SCHOOL Drama, dance & singing taught by industry pros for children aged 3-16.

Newman Catholic College, Harlesden Road, NW10 3RN. Saturday, 10am-1pm call 0845 269 9529 www.fresh-arts.co.uk

Lesbian, Gay, Bi and unsure under 19s youth club every Wednesday in Kilburn 07931 336 668 www.mosaicyouth.org.uk

PIANO TUITION Sasha 07506 198 999 Help getting a job. See: Learning

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/ GUIDES/ SENIOR SECTION GIRLS ONLY Thursday, Willesden Green Brownies 7-10 yrs 6.30-8pm 07961 315 153 Guides 10-14 yrs 7-8.30 pm 07981 174 634 Senior Section 14-25 yrs 7-8.30 07739 016 985

4TH NEASDEN BROWNIES Girls aged 7-10 only. Tues 6 - 7.30pm. St Mary’s and St Andrew’s Church Hall, Dollis Hill lane, NW2 07794 018 819

SING AND SIGN CLASSES Mon-Fri, for babies 6-18 months. Willesden Green and Kensal Rise 07790 955 576

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS BAZAAR Saturday November 24th 12 - 4pm at St Mary’s Church Willesden Parish Centre, Neasden Lane

OVER 50S DISCUSSION GROUP Tues 11am-12.30pm.

The Gallery, Willesden Green Library.

020 8452 8739

CLUB HOUSE FOR 50+ Crochet class 10.30am- 12pm Tues.

Basic French, 1-2.15pm Tues. Spanish conversation (must have some basic knowledge) 2.30-3.45pm Tues. Movement to music, 6 weeks, 4.45-5.45pm Tues from House at 181 Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, NW10 5TN 020 8206 7513

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

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NORTH WEST LONDON LESBIAN AND GAY GROUP

To get your event listed for free email us using the subject heading ‘Whats on.’ Describe your event in no more than 50 words, tell us what section you want your ad to appear, include a pic and a title and email tbm@brent.gov.uk or telephone 020 8937 1062.

Street dance classes See: Dance

Mons 8.30pm, Tenterden Sports Centre, Preston Road, Wembley.

07941 707 884

DANCE CEROC DANCING Modern jive classes, Tues 8-11pm. Beginners welcome, great fun & sociable partner dance – you don’t need to bring a partner. Brent Town Hall, Forty Lane, Wembley HA9 9HD. Call Alan 07860 250 961 www.clubceroc.com

SELF-EXPRESSIVE DANCE Creative dance/movement & verbal sharing for personal development. De-stress & build self-confidence & assertiveness. Groups or individuals. Weds & Sats in Kingsbury NW9. rmussi01@googlemail. com 07985 137 682

STREET DANCE CLASSES Piano & free street dance classes for children. For more info contact Cher on 07506 198 999

TEA DANCE Mons, Weds 1.30-4.30pm £4 Brent Town Hall 020 8937 6206 Fri 2-4.30 pm Chalkhill Community Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley 020 8385 1836. Mon & Thurs 2-4pm, King’s Hall Community Centre, 155 Harlesden Road, Willesden Green, £1.50

BALLROOM AND LATIN Mons 7.30-11pm Brent Town Hall, Forty Lane Wembley 020 8855 6868

DRAMA MADHATTERS THEATRE CLUB Meets in Willesden on Wednesday evenings.

We’re a small and friendly theatre group and looking for new members interested in community drama. No experience needed! 020 8452 5239 www.madhatters theatre.org.uk

KINGSBURY AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY (KAOS) Perform two shows a year ranging from operetta to modern musicals and rehearses on Mondays at Queensbury Methodist Church, Beverley Drive, Queensbury, HAQ 5ND at 8pm. New members both onstage and backstage are always welcome. For more information contact 020 8959 7468 or visit www.kaosonline.org

LEARNING WEMBLEY HISTORY SOCIETY 16 November at 7.30pm “Lord Citrine of Wembley.”

Find out about this important person in a talk by Dr Jim Moher. St Andrew’s Church Hall, Church Lane (opp. Tudor Gdns), Kingsbury NW9 8RZ. 020 8200 0211

ART CLASSES At the Tricycle Theatre Kilburn 269 Kilburn High Rd NW2 Tuesdays 7-9pm, £30 concessions £35 full for five weeks, for info email Mary call (pm) 020 8141 6367 mstreherne@gn.apc.org

ENGLISH TUITION One-one, groups, adults, children, all levels. CELTA qualified teacher, £15/hr in Kilburn. eflkilburn@yahoo.co.uk

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

HELP GETTING A JOB Ealing Road Library Free CV and Interview workshop, 19 Nov, 2012, 10am-12noon.

Free CV and Job search workshop 18, Feb, 2013 10am-12noon. Free CV workshop 25, Mar, 2013, 10am-12noon Harlesden Library Plus Free CV & Job Search workshop, 26, Nov, 2012, 10am-12noon. Free CV & Job search workshop, 28 Jan 2013, 10am-12noon Kilburn Library Free CV workshop, 21 Nov, 2012, 10am-12noon Free Interview Skills workshop, 12, Dec, 2012, 10-12pm Town Hall Library Free CV Workshop, 7, Dec, 2012,10am-12noon.

Free Interview Skills workshop, 25, Jan, 2013, 10am-12noon. Free Job Search Workshop, 22 Feb, 2013,10am-2noon Free Interview Skills Workshop, 22, Mar, 2013, 10am-12noon All are advanced booking at the library

FINANCING YOUR UNIVERSITY COURSE IN 2013 This free workshop from Birkbeck will give you the facts on undergraduate tuition fees and student loan, Thursday November 1, 2-4pm, Ealing Road Library. Free

PREPARATION FOR HIGHER EDUCATION Workshop from Birkbeck.

Find out all you need to know about returning to undergraduate study.

Thursday November 8 2012, 2-4pm, Willesden Green Library. Free

TIMEout HOCKEY Senior sessions. Weds 8-10pm; juniors (u9-u16) Suns 10am. Jewish Free School, The Mall, Kingsbury HA3 9TE. Gary Thompson on 07946 576 968 www.harrowhc.co.uk

VENUES

Yoga and meditation See: Sports & Leisure

BRENT MUSEUM High Road, NW10 020 8937 3600 BRENT ARCHIVES Ist Floor, Willesden Green Library Centre, NW10 020 8937 3541 archives@brent.gov.uk

WEMBLEY CRICKET CLUB

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

Sats 10-11am cricket teams and coaching for girls & boys at Oakington Manor School, Wembley 020 8902 6096

LIBRARIES

SEA URCHINS Thurs 8pm, swimming club for young people and adults with learning difficulties. Willesden Sports Centre, NW10, free, call Jean 020 8452 6912

BRONDESBURY BOWLING CLUB

Excercise class for older people See: Sports & Leisure

ENVIRONMENT BARN HILL CONSERVATION GROUP Suns. Fryent Country Park; Tues, Thurs, Sats Roe Green Walled Garden.

020 8206 0492 www.bhcg.btck.co.uk

MUSIC MANOR AND PHILBEACH SINGERS Tues 7.30 -10pm Goodwill Hall, Chichester Rd, Kilburn Park. No singing experience needed, no auditions 020 8455 8865

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 RAGGAROBICS Circuits every Wednesday at Bridge Park 8-9pm, £5 Get fit. Call Jason 07557 123 760

GENTLE EXERCISE CLASS FOR OLDER PEOPLE Age UK Brent are starting a new exercise class in Neasden on Friday afternoons. An hour’s gentle exercise at the SPA London Centre, 519 North Circular Road, Neasden, NW2 7QG. Call Ken at Age UK Brent for more details on 020 8965 7711

GET ACTIVE WITH SALSA! Mons at the Heritage Inn, Caribbean Rhum Bar & Restaurant, 301 Cricklewood Broadway, London, NW2 6PG. Beginners: 7.30-8.30pm, Improvers & Intermediate 8.45 - 9.45pm. £7 or £10 for two classes. www.cubanvibes.com or call 07961 281 989

Evenings and daytime including free tuition, Chatsworth Road 020 8438 0302

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

ZUMBA! Mon 8.15-9.15pm Sat 10-11am St Mary & St Andrews Church Hall, Dollis Hill Lane, NW2 6HE. Wed 8-9pm at Raw Spice, West Hendon, NW9 7BP. Thur 8-9pm Newman Catholic College, Harlesden, NW10. No need to book. £5 per class. Parking at all venues

MEDITATION Open class, Suns 11.30am-12.30pm, all welcome, led by former Buddhist monk Karuna Priya. FREE 1st class then £24 for 4 classes, or £7 on day Gracelands Yard, 102 Liddell Gardens, Kensal Rise, London, NW10 3QE, call Karuna 07784 436 783

KINGSBURY WALKERS Weds 1.55pm, Meet Bush Farm, Slough Lane and Salmon Street junction.

020 8907 2836

WALKING GROUP Thur, 2-3pm, Willesden Sports Centre, Donnington Road, NW10 3QX. Free.

Call Age UK Brent 020 8965 7711

WEMBLEY BOWLS CLUB Weds 3pm tuition offered.

King Edward VII Park, Park Lane Wembley 020 8907 8626

WOODCOCK PARK BOWLS CLUB Bowls, open days and fetes, Kenton 020 8907 9076

BRENT HOLIDAY SPORTS ACTIVITIES

KIXA CENTRAL POWER CLASS

For 5-15 year olds, Monday 29 October Friday 2 November at various Brent venues.

Inspired by the Olympics and Paralympics? Try some of these sports such as archery, trampolining and volleyball. Start your journey to becoming the next Mo Farah, Jess Ennis or Andy Murray.

Open to children of all abilities. You even have a unique chance to try out Wheelchair Basketball! www.brent.gov.uk/ holidayactivities

(Mixed & women only) Sun 10.30am-12.30pm, Ark Academy Bridge Road, Wembley Park, London, HA9 9JP £10.

Contact Junior 07923 043 183 proteksinternational@ yahoo.co.uk

YOGA

TAE KWON-DO

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, 12 sessions £40, drop-in £10, Gladstone Community Centre, 162 Anson Road 07901 650 763. Wed 10.30am-12.30pm Dudden Hill Community Centre, 19 Dudden Hill Lane, NW10. bhakti yoga free classes. 07913 897 406. Tue 9.2010.30am Laughter Yoga, Roundwood Park Cafe, NW10. Children free, refreshments provided.

SELF DEVELOPMENT Free courses and seminars: Meditation, Positive Thinking, Overcoming Anger etc. Inner Space, 528 High Road, Wembley, HA9 7BS. 020 8903 1911 www.innerspace. org/wembley Our leading martial arts programme teaches students realistic selfdefence, respect, focus and improves their fitness.

Most importantly they enjoy themselves while learning key life skills in a safe, friendly environment.

Mon and Thu evenings 5.30pm Preston Manor High School, Carlton Avenue East, Wembley HA9 8NA. Sun and Thu evenings 6.15pm. Roe Green Junior School, Princes Avenue, Kingsbury NW9 9JL. www. realblackbelts.co.uk info@elitetaekwondo london.com 07944 145145

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

WEMBLEY STADIUM EVENTS No event dates in November and December 2012

TAI CHI Hockey See: Sports & Leisure

Phoenix Tai Chi. Tues 1pm at Vale Farm, Wembley, Eddie Ong 07900 687 498 www.taichi-london.com 07404 039 087

WU SHU KWAN Chinese kickboxing Sat 3-5pm, Willesden Sports Centre, NW10.

07835 244 398 www.wushukwan.com ALL EVENTS ARE SELECTED AT THE EDITOR’S DISCRETION

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