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SouthLondonWeekly. Community matters

Issue 35 ∙ 50p ∙ February 2nd 2024 ∙ www.southlondon.co.uk

Taxi trade in turmoil with 20mph zones

By Harrison Galliven

limits have led “many, many dozens” of his members to lose their jobs. He added that cabs have had to fight “tooth and nail” to access parts of the city where traffic reduction schemes have been installed. Transport for London (TfL) argues that lower speed limits are making London’s roads safer by reducing deaths and serious injuries.

The issue was discussed at a meeting of the London Assembly’s transport committee, where Mr McNamara was asked to describe the impact of 20mph limits on taxis. He said: “In a word – devastating. The argument for lower speeds is obviously clear, the safety arguments are clear and unequivocal, really, on secondary roads…

“[On] all of the side streets, I don’t think anyone would argue against 20mph speed limits, certainly not us. But since the mayor’s introduction onto the TLRN [Transport for London Road Network], we’re looking at roads like the Finchley Road, which is a three-lane dual carriageway in either direction… Full story on page 6

Poch: Jur gonna be missed See sport

See page 18

labour councillor 'suspended due to gaza comments'

See page 19

four libraries face axe due to covid slump

2 NEWS Contents NEWS Pages 2-19

Council cuts Wandsworth Council weekly rent fly-tipping more than any other set to increase by average of £9.64 London authority By Charlotte Lillywhite

Arts Pages 20-21 History Page 22 CLASSIFIED Page 23 property Page 24 Public notices Pages 25-27 SPORT Pages 29-32

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Local Democracy Reporter

By Ben Lynch

The average weekly rent for council tenants in a South London borough is set to rise by £9.64 in April. Wandsworth Council’s housing committee green-lit plans to increase social and affordable rent levels by a maximum of 7.7per cent on Tuesday, January 23. The plans would see the average weekly rent for council tenants in Wandsworth rise from £138.82 to £148.86 – an increase of £9.64, or 7.2pc. The changes would affect 16,776 tenancies in the borough. The council is set to further consider the proposals and make a final decision on February 7. The level of rent paid by a council tenant depends on the number of bedrooms in the property. The council has provided the planned increases in average weekly social and affordable rents according to the size of the property, which are summarised below: Zero bedrooms: £6.26 per week, or 7.65pc One bedroom: £8.19 per week, or 7.63pc Two bedrooms: £10.03 per week, or 7.51pc Three bedrooms: £11.45 per week, or 6.82pc Four bedrooms: £9.69 per week, or 5.23pc Five or more bedrooms: £3.26 per week, or 1.66pc A report by council officers said the proposed rise in weekly rents would protect the long-term viability of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) business plan, which sets out the income and expenditure relating to the authority’s housing stock. It added the proposals had been put together by taking into account recent high levels of inflation, resulting in cost pressures on the HRA, and the impact of the cost-ofliving crisis on residents. The report argued the proposals strike “an appropriate balance between affordability for tenants and the responsibility and requirement for maintaining existing stock to a decent standard and the council’s ambitious

Hammersmith and Fulham Council has successfully slashed fly-tipping by a higher percentage than anywhere else in the capital, with the local authority pointing to its dense CCTV network as among the reasons for the sharp drop. According to Government data, the council cut cases of fly-tipping by 32.6 per cent between 2021/22 and 2022/23. This just edged out Newham, which oversaw a 32.4 per cent drop, and was far ahead of the worst-performing London borough, Tower Hamlets, recording a 93.5 per cent rise. Cllr Stephen Cowan, Leader of the council, said the local authority “will always be vigilant as we strive to make Hammersmith and Fulham the best place to live and work in London”. The Government’s data on fly-tipping shows that in 2021/22, Hammersmith and Fulham recorded 20,032 incidents, with 1,454 fixed penalty notices (FPNs) issued. The following year, 2022/23, the council had managed to cut this to 13,504 incidents, while simultaneously dishing out almost double the number of FPNs, 2,863. In neither year were any prosecutions recorded. Asked what was behind the drop, the council noted actions such as clearing rubbish pile-ups more quickly, discouraging others from adding to the mess, and its teams working together more effectively. The council’s extensive CCTV network is also deemed to be having an effect on the levels of fly-tipping in the borough. Despite already having the highest density of CCTV cameras per person when compared to all other UK councils, in March 2022 Hammersmith and Fulham announced it would be investing a further £5.4 million to ‘improve and grow’ its network over the following five years. At the time, former Deputy Leader Sue Fennimore said: “This investment enables us to expand our CCTV network, upgrade where we need to, and take full advantage of new and modern technology. “Let’s be clear, CCTV plays a huge part in the justice system. The police rely on that system to ensure that criminals are brought to justice. And our work in partnership with the police on this is critical.”

SouthLondonWeekly.

Local Democracy Reporter

plans to increase the level of stock (through build and purchase) whilst maintaining a financially viable HRA business plan”. Rent levels for council tenants in temporary accommodation at Nightingale Square and those living in properties with shared ownership agreements would also increase by a maximum of 7.7pc, in line with the proposals. Conservative councillor Kim Caddy raised concerns about the planned “huge increase” in weekly rents at the meeting on January 23. She said: “This will genuinely have a real effect on people’s budgets and we’ve already seen that arrears are increasing. It’s going to put huge financial pressure on people.” Brian Reilly, executive director of housing and regeneration, said the council needs to increase rent levels to maintain its housing stock in the face of mounting pressures. He said: “We have no alternative. We can barely do what we need to do and if you start accepting that we don’t charge the rents that enable us to maintain our stock, we will have disrepair, our stock will fall into misuse, our estates will be worse, we won’t have

SouthLondonWeekly. Community matters

Issue 33 ∙ 50p ∙ January 19 2024 ∙ www.southlondon.co.uk

Community matters

Editor: Kevin Quinn Reporters: Herbie Russell; Isabel Ramirez Sports Editor: John Kelly Sports reporter: Kiro Evans Arts Correspondent: Michael Holland Digital Transformation Editor: Katherine Johnston Media Partnerships: Anthony Phillips Advertising: Clarry Frewin Design: Dan Martin, Ann Gravesen Finance: Em Zeki - Tel: 0779 883 3758 Subscriptions/Announcements: Katie Boyd Managing & Commercial Director: Chris Mullany Managing & Editorial Director: Kevin Quinn Published weekly at: Community Matters Media Ltd, Unit A202, The Biscuit Factory, Drummond Road, Bermondsey, London SE16 4DG. News and Sport: 020 7231 5258 Advertising: 0020 7232 1639 News/Advertising: hello@cm-media.co.uk Finance: em@cm-media.co.uk Printed by Iliffe Print. Tel: 01223 656500 www.iliffeprint.co.uk

'don't give the kiss of death to our street'

By Harrison Galliven

Local Democracy Reporter The inTroducTion of a new cashless parking trial in Purley has caused a rift between residents. While some welcome the move towards modernity, others fear it will drive shoppers away. Some believe the scheme, which is

also being trialled in Addiscombe and New Addington, will also alienate the area’s elderly population, who may struggle to adapt to the new RingGooperated system. After struggling to navigate the new system, a Purley resident told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “My dad comes here, and he’s in his 70s, he doesn’t have a smart

phone. What happens if you don’t have a smart phone? It just assumes that everybody can do it and they can’t. It’s not fair.” Another shopper, Sharon, told the LDRS: “It doesn’t bother me because I don’t tend to carry cash, I prefer to do it on my phone anyway. It’s convenient for me, but I would understand if the elderly don’t take to it because they’re

more likely to be carrying cash.” The three-week trial, introduced on January 2, will require shoppers to register their parking via the RingGo app, calling a payment number or via PayPoint at an affiliated shop. Parking will be restricted to an hour and cost shoppers 20p, which goes to RingGo. Full story on page 19

Blues get chil See time sport

See page 6

'care home resident put shampoo in porridge and ate it'

See page 11

footBall cluB neighBours want to sell

the resources to do the basics.” He added: “It is absolutely essential, following the reductions in income that all local authorities have suffered, that we go for this figure and that is the context that we mustn’t lose sight of.” Some tenants have their rent met in full by Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. Residents in receipt of these benefits can apply to the council for a Discretionary Housing Payment to help pay their rent if they are struggling to meet the total cost. The committee also green-lit plans to add £126.2million to the HRA up to the 2026/27 financial year, bringing the total to £714.8m. This extra cash would fund further repairs and improvements to homes and estates, along with building and buying properties. The committee approved the proposals at the meeting, with seven councillors voting in favour and four against. The council will further consider the plans and make a final decision on February 7. The changes will come into effect for the 2024/25 financial year on April 1 if they are formally approved. Image: Wandsworth Town Hall. Credit: Google Maps

The South London Weekly is an independent newspaper covering all of south London and beyond

Issue 33 ∙ 50p ∙ January 19 2024 ∙ www.southlondon.co.uk

Community Matters Media has been running independent newspapers since 1987, and now boasts the weeklies: South London Weekly, Southwark News and Greenwich & Lewisham Weekender, as well as the lifestyle magazines The South Londoner and Bermondsey Biscuit & Rotherhithe Docker. You can view all our content on www.southlondon.co.uk and sign up to newsletters to stay informed about news, lifestyle & events, people, sport and history. We believe in community and in balanced, independent and responsible journalism. As a south London business, we also work to support fellow local businesses. A dedicated team of staff work tirelessly to cover as much of what is going on as possible and strive to ensure that community-led, independent newspapers can survive and excel in a market dominated by national and multinational media groups.

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NEWS 3

free guided walk in Camberwell to celebrate local black heroes By Isabel Ramirez

a Free guided walking tour will celebrate local Black heroes in art and history, including actor John Boyega and activist una Marson.

In a blend of art and history, the Camberwell Black History Walk will launch on Saturday 3 February, with guided walks to start from Camberwell Green at noon. Attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the stories of Camberwell’s black luminaries, including the esteemed John Boyega, whose journey from the SE5 Sceaux Gardens estate to the Star Wars silver screen serves as an emblem of aspiration and achievement. Southwark Mayor Michael Situ and Suzann McLean, CE and Artistic Director of Theatre Peckham, will inaugurate the walk, inviting the community to discover the rich tapestry of Camberwell’s black history. The walk, which encompasses 6,000 steps and over 400 years of history, begins at Camberwell Green.

Tayo Fatunla designed the map and his illustrations were shaped through a collaborative workshop with pupils from Sacred Heart School. Southwark Council, in partnership with the Camberwell Society, has installed plaques at eight significant sites, each offering a QR code for an auditory guide voiced by young actors from Theatre Peckham. The initiative, funded by Southwark Council’s developers’ levy and the Camberwell Society, was penned by local historian Stephen Bourne.

una MarSon - aCTIVIST, PoeT, PlaYWrIGhT and BroadCaSTer - See hISTorY, PaGe 22

Guy’s staff celebrate more than 725 years of service Music to beat fascists with Art page 20

By Isabel Ramirez TWenTY-nIne MeMBerS of staff at guy’s and St Thomas’ have been honoured for collectively dedicating more than 725 years of service to the nHS.

The Trust’s long service awards, funded by Guy’s & St Thomas’ Charity, saw the staff who have each contributed at least 25 years of service receive awards at the celebratory event. Staff given the award have varied roles at Guy’s and St Thomas’ including housekeeping assistants, matrons, radiographers, researchers, and surgeons. Michael Connolly has been an ambulance care assistant and staff shuttle bus driver at the Trust for 29 years.

Working with patient transport services, he would collect patients from their homes across southeast London and Kent and transport them to and from the hospital, sometimes several times a week. Michael said: “Patients recognise me in the shops because I’m a local lad from the Old Kent Road. “I pride myself on manners and politeness. That’s what is important. Be calm, listen to the patients, and talk to them nicely. And don’t hurry them.” Other recipients included Martin Gough, who has been a children’s orthopaedic surgeon at the Trust since 1998 and Judith Hall, a physiotherapist and head of the community rehabilitation and falls service who has worked in the NHS for 27 years. Each staff member was presented with a gold badge.

4 NEWS

‘Crossbow-Carrying inTruder’ faTaLLy shoT by police Team afTer responding To call By Herbie Russell

a man armed with a crossbow a knife, sword and hatchet’ has died after being shot by armed officers responding to calls for help from the occupants of an address in rotherhithe.

At about 4.55am on Tuesday, 30 January, police were called to reports of a man attempting to force entry to a residential property in Bywater Place, SE16. It was reported that the man, believed to be in his 30s, was armed with weapons including a crossbow and was threatening to harm residents inside the address. Police later revealed that weapons including a knife, a sword and a hatchet were also recovered at the scene. Local officers attended and attempted to speak to the man but said, after being threatened, armed officers were called and quickly attended the scene. The man is said to have got inside the property, and a police firearm was discharged. Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist, who has overall responsibility for firearms, said: “The first unarmed officers knew they were arriving on scene to reports of man armed with weapons and threatening to harm people inside an address.

“The officers knew there were people inside and had genuine fears for their safety. Armed officers were called and attempted to get the man to surrender. They entered the property and shots were fired. He said the day had been “extremely difficult for everyone involved” adding: “I firmly believe their actions prevented further loss of life.” Officers and paramedics from the London Ambulance Service immediately provided first aid but police said “sadly the man died at the scene”. Enquiries are ongoing to inform his next of kin. Two occupants received minor injuries during the incident. The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards has been informed. A referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) which has begun an independent investigation. Detective Chief Superintendent Seb Adjei-Addoh, responsible for policing Southwark, said: “My thoughts are with all those affected by this incident. “I understand the local community will be concerned at the events that have taken place this morning. We will fully support the IOPC investigation into the full circumstances of what happened.

Police had erected at least one tent on Bywater Place “Armed officers are highly trained and patrol the streets of London on a daily basis, dealing with challenging, fast moving and often dangerous situations to try and protect the public and their unarmed colleagues. “They discharge their weapons very rarely and all officers understand and expect that when they do, their actions will be closely scrutinised.”

Following the shooting police cordoned off the road

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NEWS 5 By Isabel Ramirez a Brand new children’s bookshop is opening in Herne Hill, in place of one that closed last year.

The Words + Pictures Children’s Bookshop will soon replace Tales on Moon Lane (at 25 Half Moon Lane) which relocated up north last September after twenty years of business. The new shop will be run by multiaward-winning children’s author/ illustrator, Frann Preston Gannon, together with business partner, Anja Stobbart. Frann, who lives in the area, has been celebrated internationally for highly acclaimed works including I Am The Seed That Grew The Tree and The Journey Home. She told us: “We are delighted to be bringing a children’s bookshop back to Herne Hill, and launching through this partnership with the incredible Stepping Into Stories Kids’ Lit Fest, which takes Herne Hill by storm every February. “Having lived in the area for seventeen years, I know just how vital books and stories are to the local community, and can’t wait to inspire children from all backgrounds to celebrate reading, creativity and stories in all their rich array.” Before opening officially this spring, they will host a week-long pop-up shop in Station Hall during the Stepping Into Stories Kids’ Literature Festival. The annual festival, featuring a storytelling competition and talks from best-selling authors, is from January 30 to February 4. There are over sixty events set to take place. The Words + Pictures Bookshop is

brand new bookshop To be opened in herne hill This spring by local auThor providing sales of signed books across the festival programme, including to the many schools taking part throughout the week. As Anja notes, “We have already had fantastic sales and support from participating schools, and this is so important as a new business starting out. “This exciting collaboration with the festival gives us a great boost as we

launch the bookshop, making us visible to the many thousands of people who take part each year, and putting us firmly on the map as a fantastic local bookshop led by a team with knowledge, experience and passion.” Frann will also be running a book event at the Stepping Into Stories Festival, for children aged 3+, where she will celebrate her latest publication, The Eco Family Book, in

a fun, interactive storytelling event perfect for little nature lovers. This is part of an action-packed weekend of events for booklovers of all ages, with other celebrated names including Sam Sedgman (Clockwork Conspiracy); James Catchpole (You’re So Amazing!); Erika Meza (The Other Side); Kelechi Okafor (Strong Like Me); Rashmi Sirdeshpande (Yes You Can, Cow!), Xavier Leopold (Art For The

Heart) and many more. For the full Stepping Into Stories Festival programme and to book tickets, please visit www.steppingintostories. org. Tickets are £4-12, with accompanying adults going free. Further concessions are available. The festival is supported by Arts Council England and Sir Walter St John’s.

the Conservative MP. Guy’s and St Thomas’ has a long history of supporting the Armed Forces and was one of the first trusts in London to sign the Armed Forces Covenant. The covenant sees organisations promise to treat veterans, and their families, with fairness and respect so they don’t face disadvantages. According to the Ministry of Defence statistics published in 2022, one in eight UK Armed Force personnel were seen for mental health-related reasons. The Trust’s Armed Forces programme works with the Defence Medical Welfare Service on a range of

programmes which provide specialist advice and support for Armed Forces patients. It also works with the Forces Employment Charity and other organisations to support and advocate recruitment of the Armed Forces community. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Rt Hon. Johnny Mercer MP, said: “It was great to meet Guy’s and St Thomas’ Armed Forces team and hear about the linked up care they provide to veterans through Op COURAGE and Op RESTORE, our fantastic mental and physical health pathways specifically designed for veterans.”

Appeal after woman allegedly ex-forces personnel get visit from sexually assaulted walking home from New Cross station veterans’ minister Johnny mercer By Herbie Russell

deTeCTiveS inveSTigaTing an alleged sexual assault have released an e-FiT of a person they’d like to speak to.

Police say the incident took place when a woman in her thirties was walking home from New Cross station at around 2.50am on Saturday,

Police have released an E-FIT after a woman was allegedly sexually assaulted walking home from New Cross station

December 16. On Jerningham Road a man reportedly emerged from behind a skip in front of the woman. He is said to have walked alongside her for some time before allegedly sexually assaulting her at the junction with St Asaph Road. Police are urging people anyone who recognises the man pictured, or saw something suspicious around that time, to contact police. Detective Constable Marissa Harrison said: “We take every incident of sexual assault extremely seriously and are committed to targeting predatory offenders. “Women should be able to walk home safely on our streets without fear of being assaulted and so it’s crucial that we find this man. “Were you in the area at the time? Did you see a man following a woman? Or maybe you live in the area and recognise the man pictured in the image? “Please share any information or concerns you have with us as it could be vital information to help us in our investigation.” At this stage, officers believe this to be an isolated incident. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 4558/16DEC23 or to remain anonymous they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Johnny Mercer MP met with former armed forces personnel at a session held at Evelina Hospital last week

By Herbie Russell veTeranS’ miniSTer Johnny Mercer MP met with former armed forces personnel at a session held at evelina Hospital last week.

The Cabinet Minister paid tribute to Guy’s and St Thomas’ Armed Forces programme which helps veterans with health, well-being and employment. Around 30 veterans met with Mercer to discuss their personal experiences at Ronald McDonald House on Thursday, January 18. Billy Kelly, Head of Armed Forces for Guy’s and St Thomas’, said the 30 veterans were “delighted” to welcome

6 NEWS

The roll-out of 20mph speed limits on main roads has had a "devastating" impact on London’s taxi trade, City Hall has been told

By Noah Vickers

Local Democracy Reporter The roll-out of 20mph speed limits on main roads has had a “devastating” impact on London’s taxi trade, City Hall has been told. Steve McNamara, general secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association, said on Tuesday that reduced speed limits have led “many, many dozens” of his members to lose their jobs. He added that cabs have had to fight “tooth and nail” to access parts of the city where traffic reduction schemes have been installed. Transport for London (TfL) argues that lower speed limits are making London’s roads safer by reducing deaths and serious injuries. The issue was discussed at a meeting of the London Assembly’s transport committee, where Mr McNamara was asked to describe the impact of 20mph limits on taxis. He said: “In a word – devastating. The argument for lower speeds is obviously clear, the safety arguments are clear and unequivocal, really, on secondary roads… “[On] all of the side streets, I don’t think anyone would argue against 20mph speed limits, certainly not us. But since the mayor’s introduction onto the TLRN [Transport for London Road Network], we’re looking at roads like the Finchley Road, which is a three-lane dual carriageway in either direction… “We are now seeing a situation where I have got, it’s not hundreds yet, but it’s many, many dozens of members, who are now out of work and unlicensed, some of whom have been driving a cab for 40 years with an absolutely faultless driving record… [These drivers] have found themselves with 12 points in absolutely no time at all. “Of course, during the day, it’s quite easy to maintain 20mph… but at 4am, if you’re coming down Park Lane – which was previously 40mph as recently as a year ago – you’re coming down Park Lane at 20mph and the vehicle creeps up to 24mph… “I can literally give you multiple examples of drivers that have been caught at 24, 24, 24 and 24, at all hours of the night, and have lost their licences.” He added: “I accept the simple argument [of] ‘well you shouldn’t have done it’, but of course in the real world, these people aren’t a danger to anyone. They’re not driving recklessly… These have had a major, major impact.” TfL runs about five per cent of London’s roads. The highways under its control are known as ‘red routes’ and form the arteries of the capital’s road network. The rest of London’s streets are run by borough councils. As part of mayor Sadiq Khan’s “vision zero” aim of reducing road deaths to

“I can literally give you multiple examples of drivers that have been caught at 24, 24, 24 and 24, at all hours of the night, and have lost their licences.” zero by 2041, TfL has been working to gradually introduce 20mph limits on 140km of its roads. Conservative mayoral candidate Susan Hall, along with Reform UK’s Howard Cox and some independent candidates, have all called for the limits to be removed from main roads. A TfL spokesman said: “We’re proud of London’s black taxis and are working with the trade to ensure that it continues to play an important role in enabling people to travel in the

capital. “We’re determined to keep Londoners moving safely as they travel in the capital and 20mph speed limits save lives. “Collision data from around the world shows that the faster a vehicle is travelling, the more likely it is that a collision will occur and reducing vehicle speeds is the single most important factor behind the likelihood of a collision occurring and the severity of injuries.

“We believe keeping people safe works hand in hand with keeping people moving on the road network efficiently and data suggests that journey times on the TfL road network remain at similar levels to those in 2019.” Mr McNamara also told the committee that TfL had introduced a number of “ableist” traffic reduction schemes, which he claimed had made it harder for elderly and disabled people to get around London by taxi. He said: “There are numerous videos doing the rounds of elderly and disabled people, having to walk from the front of Liverpool Street station, 200 yards to the cab rank, and then having to be taken on a circuitous tour of London to go in the opposite direction. These schemes are ableist, that’s what they are.” Christina Calderato, TfL’s director of transport strategy and policy, said to committee members: “Our job at TfL is to manage [traffic] on a finite road network, balance the needs of all our users, and that includes disabled people, people who need to get around the network, people who

are reliant on public transport, people who want to walk and cycle.” She said that when weighing up that balance, TfL does “take into consideration” the fact that taxis provide a door-to-door service for people with reduced mobility. Mr McNamara later said taxis have had to “fight tooth and nail” to be allowed to access roads where traffic reduction schemes have been installed, “when the opposite should be true”. Ms Calderato responded: “Taxis have access to 95 per cent of bus lanes, and the default will be [that] taxis will be included, unless there is a specific reason – which might be that there will be a detrimental effect on the bus network or a detrimental safety impact for people walking or cycling. In those circumstances only, that’s where we’ll look to restrict that access… “Borough schemes are individual schemes and they’re decided by the boroughs, but we have worked with the boroughs and spoken to boroughs about supporting taxis, and what initiatives can be done to do that.”

NEWS 7

faKe ‘Covid Cure’ preaCher vows To Keep Kingdom church open afTer chariTable sTaTus is revoked exclusive

Climate Wiseman leaves Inner London Crown Court after his ﬁrst appearance their last year

By Herbie Russell

Climate’s protection oil

a CamBerWeLL preacher who sold fake Covid ‘protection kits’ has vowed to keep his church open after a government body ordered him to wind down his charity, we can exclusively reveal.

Nearly four years after we first revealed Bishop Climate Wiseman was flogging the mixtures of oil and red string, the Charity Commission says it has ordered him to dissolve Kingdom Church GB over financial irregularities. But the Bishop has said Kingdom Church GB was separate from the Kingdom Church, meaning his church on Camberwell Station Road will stay open. The Charity Commission’s verdict comes after the bishop was convicted of fraud and handed a one-year suspended jail term in December 2022. Comparing his struggle to the Messiah’s, Wiseman, 47, told the News: “Jesus died as a criminal, as a convicted criminal… So I take my encouragement from that and knowing that.” And he added: “I’m a miracle man but what chance do I stand?”, saying secularists were determined to find fault with him. In its verdict published yesterday (January 25), the Charity Commission announced Climate’s charity had been removed from the register on February 21, 2023. Its inquiry findings alleged the church’s finances were entangled with Wiseman’s “private business interests” and “demonstrated poor financial controls”. In a statement, the Commission claimed Wiseman had fallen “woefully short” of expectations and alleged he had “scammed vulnerable people”. It has also banned Wiseman from being a charity trustee or holding a senior position in a charity for fifteen years. But the bishop now says the inquest was pursued because of his Covid kits rather than his finances. “It’s been very unfair. The way they deal with churches is very discriminating because this inquiry had nothing to do with the finances,” he told us. “Because what really happened is, the Charity Commission, the first time they rang me it was about this issue of Covid…

It’s about the oil.” Wiseman repeated his claim today (January 25) that the oil “worked”: “We had over a thousand members and none of them died of covid.” In a statement, Helen Earner, Director of Regulatory Services at the Charity Commission, said: “The public rightly expects charities to be places of safety. “Trustee Bishop Climate Wiseman fell woefully short of that expectation when he scammed vulnerable people at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.” Wiseman’s pandemic packages contained a small bottle of hyssop, cedarwood and olive oil along with a prayer card and a piece of scarlet yarn. He warned his followers that they could “drop dead” if they didn’t buy the products. During the media storm that followed the story, Wiseman told his congregation

Troubled care home to be bought by council

By Robert Firth Local Democracy Reporter a TrouBled care home where a dementia patient became stuck in a locked cupboard for two hours is set to be bought by Southwark Council. Tower Bridge Care Centre in Bermondsey has been rated as ‘requires

improvement’ or ‘inadequate’ in its last three inspections by social care watchdog the CQC. In 2022, the Local Government Ombudsman awarded the daughter of a woman who stayed there £1,300 in compensation after her mum became stuck in a cupboard at the home on Aberdour Street.

that news outlets were the “antichrist” launching a “smear campaign”. In a YouTube video conference entitled ‘Update From Prophet Climate About The Evil Accusation Going Around On Media’ he warned followers to ignore media reports. “It’s a smear campaign that’s been run by not any other than the secular, I’m talking about the secular movement … people that hate God,” he said. After this paper broke the story on March 31, 2020, the BBC launched an investigation. Their secret phone recordings and testimony were used as evidence in court to secure Wiseman’s conviction. During the trial, Wiseman testified that his kits had cured at least ten people who had the virus. His defence argued he should be free to practise his religion and told the judge that

Dr Wiseman was not an ‘anti-vaxxer’. At the trial, demonstrators wearing matching red t-shirts held banners and placards declaring: “Southwark Labour councillors are anti-christ and faith haters”, ‘Bishop Climate is the true prophet”, and “there is healing power in divine cleansing oil”. Bishop Climate defended himself in court on the grounds of religious freedom and insisted he was not an “anti-vaxxer”. Following his conviction, Southwark Council said Wiseman “preyed on people from the start of the first lockdown, a time when most of us were scared and worried about coronavirus and what the future held”. “We are delighted with this guilty result, it shows that no one is above the law,” it added. The National Secular Society was among

Plans set to be rubber stamped at a Southwark Council meeting next Tuesday (February 6), would see the local authority buy the care home building from its current owner healthcare company HCOne. The council would then find a new company to take over the running of the home from October.

Tower Bridge Care Centre is Southwark’s largest nursing home with space for 128 residents. As of April last year, there were 112 people living at the home. A CQC report published in July 2023 following an inspection of the home said staff were managing residents’ medicines in an unsafe way, a problem which had also been noted when the home was inspected previously. The report said: “At our last inspection we found there were significant and widespread issues with the records of administration as records were not reliably accounting for the medicines people had been given. “At this inspection we found although records were more reliable and usually tallied with the physical stock of medicines available, there was one example of a medicated cream that staff had signed for as administered, which in fact, had not been administered.”

Bishop Climate Wiseman featured on our front page when Southwark News broke the story in March 2020 the organisations that flagged concerns over the church, ultimately leading to the charity’s closure. Responding to the Charity Commission’s decision, NSS head of campaigns Megan Manson said: “The Kingdom Church case should be a wake up call. “If ‘the advancement of religion’ is enabling organisations peddling fake cures to register as charities, its inclusion on the list of charitable purposes must be challenged.” Responding to his interview with this paper, Manson said: “We want to see a society that treats people of all religions and beliefs equally and treats them fairly by the law but also makes sure they’re not above the law.” The Charity Commission declined to comment on Wiseman’s latest remarks. Councillor Evelyn Akoto, Labour’s cabinet member for health, said the council’s decision to buy Tower Bridge Care Centre was ‘good news’ for both residents and staff at the home. She said: “By stepping in, we are protecting much-needed nursing home beds and local jobs in our borough. Residents will stay close to family and friends, which is so important. We will continue to work closely with HC-One to ensure a smooth handover in due course.” Stephen Butterworth, chief operations officer at HC-One, said: “We believe that Tower Bridge Care Home will have a bright future under the tenure of Southwark Council who will enable the home to flourish. We are grateful for the council’s support to date, and we look forward to working with them over the coming months to support a successful transition.”

8 NEWS By Herbie Russell In 2001, Jeremy Bowen, among the best-known BBC war correspondents, took two weeks off work. A violent incident had left him “pouring with blood” and his face “so swollen up” he couldn’t possibly present the Breakfast show.

Given this is a man who’s reported from some of the harshest war zones in modern memory, readers may be surprised to hear this grim altercation was in Camberwell. Without even a hint of irony, Bowen says: “It did make me cautious about where I went, which I never had been.”’ I met Bowen at the Hermits Cave in January, a gloomy but cosy pub just minutes away from where the mugging took place. He enters wearing a dark cap pulled tightly over his head. He’ll return to Israel next week where he’s been reporting on the recent conflict. You get the sense that, somewhere deep inside, he’s already there. Bowen, 63, has enjoyed a glittering 40-year career at the BBC. What began as a traineeship in 1984 has seen him rise to International Editor, reporting conflicts in Iraq, Yugoslavia and Afghanistan in between. For almost all that time, Camberwell has been home. In his early days at the BBC, he took the 12 bus to Oxford Circus. Bowen is arguably best known for his work in the Levant, where he has covered the near-constant fighting between Gaza and Israel. Since October 7, Bowen has been back there. I ask him what it’s like right now. “It’s desperate. It’s strange. If you’re in Israel, physically, apart from the areas that are very near Gaza and very near the northern border, it looks the same,” he says. “Shops are open, people are going about their business. But it’s different because everything has changed in people’s minds.” He adds: “Jerusalem is always tense. Jerusalem is the most consistently intense place I think I’ve ever been to.” He is, of course, talking about the tensions between Palestinians and Israelis which re-erupted with the October 7 attack. The Hamas invasion killed around 1,200 people and approximately 25,000 Palestinians have died since Israel’s subsequent invasion of Gaza, according to the Hames-run Health Ministry. It’s telling that Bowen’s first thought is of the relative domesticity of Jerusalem rather than the devastation across the wire fence. He, like many journalists, has been largely denied entry into Gaza by Israel which he says “wants to control the media battleground”. Bowen and his team have been allowed into Gaza once - a brief trip into the city’s north in an IDF armoured personnel carrier (APC). Outside the vehicle, he found himself standing atop a “wasteland”. The APC was an advanced model; with internal screens that allow you to scroll through different camera angles as you cruise through what Bowen calls the Gaza “wasteland”. But a shiny bit of kit offering 360-degree views of the destroyed city could never replace what Jeremy has been doing his entire career - “eyewitness reporting”. “It’s very frustrating not being able to get in Gaza. It’s had a huge impact on our ability to tell the story fairly, Bowen says. “We can go to any number of hostage family events in Tel Aviv but not being able to get into Gaza even for a day to report fairly in Rafah…it’s not the same as being there yourself.” But during his brief foray into the strip, where neighbourhoods he once

Jeremy Bowen in Damascus in 2015

recognised were flattened, he still “learned something”. “Which was: ‘My god every building is destroyed’. That was back in November so imagine what it must be like now,” he says. In the months since that visit the BBC has, predictably, come under fire from both sides over perceived bias. So it’s with hesitancy that I ask Bowen for his own views on an immediate ceasefire. “I’m not gonna talk about my own opinion here. What I’d say is that the humanitarian organisations all say there needs to be a humanitarian ceasefire because the humanitarian plight of the people is so serious,” he says. “It’s not for me as a BBC journalist to express an opinion about when and how it should happen but I can report very fairly that that’s very much the opinion of not just the UN, but many other countries. In a way, Britain and the US are outliers.” Bowen’s physical detachment from the battlefield is also an outlier. For as long as he can remember, he wanted to be a foreign correspondent observing and reporting on history’s biggest moments. Journalism is in his blood. His parents were both in the business, his mother a photojournalist, with his father Gareth

known for his coverage of the 1966 Aberfan disaster which saw 144 people, including 116 children, killed when a colliery spoil tip collapsed in south Wales. Bowen studied History at UCL and after some internships in Washington started a prestigious BBC traineeship in 1984. Around that time, he briefly lived with his now wife Julia Williams in a hard-to-let 1950s Walworth flat by Burgess Park. It was still heated with a solid fuel fire. Bowen describes it as an “absolute dump” but perhaps it sparked an appetite for south east London. A couple of years later he bought a “beautiful” Georgian flat in Camberwell Grove for £48,000 and has been in the area ever since. At the BBC, Bowen did stints as a financial news reporter, a correspondent in Geneva, and in Television News where he covered the Lockerbie Disaster. He was pipped to a job as a developing world correspondent by the late George Alagiah. But Bowen had impressed enough to get a role on the foreign affairs unit, meaning being sent across the world to cover breaking stories. “I was still only 28 and suddenly there I was,” he says. “There’d be an earthquake somewhere and they’d call me up in the

middle of the night and off I’d go. I loved it, loved it. I absolutely loved it.” Soon Bowen was sent to report his first war - El Salvador, 1989. He’d been in Afghanistan earlier that year but this was the first time he encountered close-quarters gunfire. Bankrolled by the Americans, the government was fighting a vicious war against Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front rebels. Some years earlier, a young Bowen has sat opposite Gordon Martin, a former diplomatic correspondent and “distinguished old boy”. Over drinks at El Vino, a swanky Fleet Street bar, Martin had recounted wild tales of chartering a taxi to the front line, with “the rain lashing down”, wearing only “a lightweight Italian suit”. While Bowen didn’t go that far, he was under-equipped by modern standards. “Nowadays we’d have flak jackets and first aid knowledge and training. I didn’t even have a bandaid,” he says. El Salvador was a brutal introduction. Bowen saw his first dead body and the corpse of a guerrilla being burned on an open fire. In his autobiography War Stories, he describes bullets buzzing around his head like “insects”.

Bowen says: “It was a story like any other but the difference was there was danger involved. And I found, to my surprise, far from being frightened by the danger, I found it exciting.” He adds: “And I wanted a bit of this drug, this dangerous drug. I wanted a bit more of it.” He’d get more. He was soon sent to cover the Gulf War from Baghdad where his honest reporting of the Amiriyah shelter bombing, which killed over 400 civilians, won huge plaudits. In Sarajevo, during the Bosnian War, he reported from a city under siege, an experience Bowen describes as a “privilege”. “If you’re in a dangerous place you’re closer to the essence of life and death. And that means your experiences can be very intense and sharp and quite meaningful,” he explains. Bowen’s work in Sarajevo saw him tell the sort of painful, human stories that emerge from a four-year siege that kills over 11,500 civilians. His reporting was even used as evidence as he testified against Slobodan PraLJak in the Hague for war crimes in Mostar. In one of his rare moments of downtime,

NEWS 9

Camberwell resident jeremy bowen on local life and the ‘privilege’ of war reporting BBC International News Editor discusses Gaza, past conflicts and why he made Southwark his home

Bowen with Peshmerge in Iraq in 1991

A woman gives Bowen a flower when he reaches the besieged town of Goražde, Bosnia, in 1992

Jeremy Bowen as a young correspondent in Geneva Bowen found time to abseil down the side of his bullet-holed Sarajevo hotel after being goaded by a French journalist. “That was a stupid thing to do,” he admits. In 2000, following the death of his friend and colleague Abed Takkoush in Lebanon, killed by an IDF tank, Bowen took a break from war reporting. From 2000 to 2002 he presented BBC Breakfast. He says being in a studio was “alien” but was helped by the camaraderie of his copresenter Sophie Raworth. In 2005 he was made Middle East editor and was often back in the field. Six years later, the Arab Spring, a transnational wave of anti-government protests, shook the region. In 2011, Bowen was the first Western journalist to interview Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi as he presided over the last months of his crumbling regime. “I didn’t think he was mad. I just felt he’d lived in a bubble for a very long time. I felt he actually believed his own propaganda which is pretty dangerous,” Bowen says. Four months later, the dictator was hauled out from the drainage pipe where he hid and killed by rebels. Turning to issues closer to home, Bowen says he’s seen “very many changes” in Camberwell during his 40 years as a resident. In the early days, he remembers “pretty rough” pubs with frosted glass and “strange” empty restaurants that a friend assured him were gambling fronts. But he’s enamoured with the area. “It’s home now,” he says. That feeling persists despite suffering a knife-point mugging nearby. “He pulled a knife and said give me

your money now,” Bowens recounts. “He slashed at my jacket.” The assailant “thumped” Bowen: “I was pouring with blood! I was a presenter on Breakfast… I couldn’t go to work for a few weeks because my face was so swollen up!” Camberwell still has a crime problem which Southwark Council recently tried to address by removing the table tennis tables from the Green to prevent people from drinking there. But Bowen is sceptical about that as a solution. “People are hopeless and become drinkers like that because they have big problems in their lives,” Bowen says. “I don’t think it’s because there are table tennis tables.” He says Camberwell benefits from the local arts universities which give “life” to the local area but bemoaned the high house prices which deter young people. “If you don’t have young people able to move into the local area it just becomes a bit dead,” he says. The Hermits Cave is testament to that change; where old-school locals mix with the local arts crowd. Admittedly, it’s probably not the most exciting place Bowen has ever had a drink. In 1989, Bowen spent his 30th birthday in a Bucharest hotel as the Romanian revolution raged outside. I ask him whether he’d rather have a drink back at that hotel, at that moment, or here in this trendy Camberwell pub. Bowen, a happily married father-of-two, turns his thoughts to home. “To be honest now - I’m going to be 64 in a couple of weeks - I’d rather have a nice glass of wine in my own house.”

Community hall ChrisTmas bLoCKbusTer ‘JingLe beLL heisT’ now thriving By Isabel Ramirez

a BerMondSeY-based community hall has gone ‘from strength to strength’ after being saved from closure by one Tra member and a group of scouts.

F.A.A.

Connor Swindells talking about sex education (Creative Commons)

A ﬁlming location for Jingle Bell Heist is the Loughborough Hotel, is an Edwardian former entertainment venue built around 1900.

Magdalen Hall was being run by residents of the Purbrook, St Saviours and Aylwin Estates – but its future looked bleak after all but one member of the TRA stepped down. It looked as if no one would carry on the baton and with nowhere to practice, the Bermondsey scouts were to be left without a home. Given that the association covered 760 homes, the only remaining member, Kyle Simmons, was determined not to let it be lost. “With the scouts, we started flyering around the estate,” Kyle told us. He said thanks to the article published by the News and their campaign - the hall was saved. “There was a massive turnout for the meeting - I got voted in as treasurer.” He said they’ve gone from one team member to fourteen. “It’s gone from strength to strength. The scouts are still using it on Wednesdays, and we now have a community bar and hold regular events for everyone, including a coffee morning for over 55s.” Since taking it over seven months ago, Kyle said they’ve upgraded the garden, lighting and all the technical equipment. “It’s lifted the mood. People are way more engaged than they were, and we’re generating a good stream of income which we put back into the community.”

sees Trendy brixTon cafe Transformed inTo a film seT

By Herbie Russell a CHriSTmaS blockbuster starring famous actors has seen a trendy Brixton hang-out transformed into a film set.

‘Jingle Bell Heist’ starring Sex Education’s (2019) Connor Swindells and co-star Olivia Holt was shooting at the Loughborough Hotel, Brixton, on Wednesday, January 24. The film reportedly tells the story of two strangers who unite to rob a department store only to accidentally fall in love. Passers-by may have been shocked to see fake police cars and crowds of extras humming around the streets. Fortunately, two genuine

Metropolitan Police advisers were on hand to reassure any confused local residents. The filming location, the Loughborough Hotel, is an Edwardian former entertainment venue built around 1900. Nowadays it hosts the San Mei Gallery and the quaint Annapurna Café making it a hotspot among the Brixton arts

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crowd. Set designers reconstructed the building as what appeared to be a festive shop front with mannequins and wrapped gifts in the windows. Bright lights were strewn across the walls and Christmas trees erected to complete the look. It’s one of roughly a dozen film locations across London being used,

including ones in Eltham and Bow. British actor Connor Swindells, who recently appeared in Barbie (2023) as Aaron Dinkins has been cast. He will star alongside Tennesseeborn Olivia Holt, known for her parts in a host of Disney series. During the shoot, Evandale Road and parts of Loughborough Road and Crowhurst Close were closed to traffic.

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NEWS 11

croydon moTorisTs incensed afTer sofTware problem meanT They were hiT by wave of pcn leTTers ordering Them To pay The council £195

By Harrison Galliven Local Democracy Reporter doZenS oF Croydon motorists have been hit with PCn letters, ordering them to pay £195 immediately. many claim they did not receive the letters offering them a chance to pay the standard reduced £65 figure. Croydon Council is investigating whether a software failure is to blame for this fault, which targeted motorists who drove through prohibited roads during November and December of 2023. While most acknowledge they drove through these zones and would pay the initial fine, they believe the order for a £195 fine without the chance to contest is ‘unfair.’ Sel Sharpe, an elderly motorist who was caught driving back from Croydon University Hospital told LDRS: “I just think that it’s kind of heartwrenching to get something like that when you’re a pensioner. They just need to get it right.” Sel , of Shirley, also commented how this fine has come at the worst possible time for Croydon residents, who are facing the dual pressures of a cold winter and cost of living crisis. She said: “I’m incensed. It’s cold at this time of year, do we have to now cut down on food because we are being made to pay £195.” After reaching out, she discovered she was not the only pensioner who had experienced this. She discovered another elderly driver drove through the same restricted section of Lodge Road and received a similar letter demanding £195 instead of the initial £65. Others have told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) how they have paid the initial fine, but have still received letters from Croydon Council, saying they must pay the full amount or face enforcement action. Many have expressed their frustrations with trying to contact the

council to correct this issue. Speaking to the LDRS, South Norwood resident Jeanette Goddard said: “The problem is that you can’t question it as there are no phone lines you can get hold of. You can send them an email but more often than not they don’t bother to respond. I did try Croydon Council, but I waited half an hour one day and fourty-five minutes the next. They only told me the same thing, which was that I had to send an email.” She added: “I was parking on the street, waiting to get my tyre changed. As I moved off the camera caught me going down that road. I paid on November 21, but they did not acknowledge it and the next letter said it had now gone up to £195. “I’ve already sent them all the proof, so I don’t know what the problem is. There is obviously something going on with their computer system. It’s like Mr Bates vs The Post Office.” On Nextdoor, one resident said: “Right

now I do not have the funds for the full increased amount and feel very upset. I have never received the PCN and its already escalated to the charge certificate. I fear it will affect my credit score if I don’t pay and it is causing a lot of tension.” Councillors have acknowledged the distress this software failure may have caused residents, in what is considered one of the most financially challenging times of the year. They also noted the failure may have been compounded by Royal Mail delays over the festive period. Tory Councillor Alasdair Stewart, who represents Purley Oaks and Riddlesdown, said: “It’s clear from the residents I’ve spoken to, both in person this weekend and on online platforms, that there is an issue – possibly compounded by delays and issues with Royal Mail deliveries. “I’m sorry for the added stress this will be causing residents, especially at what is typically an expensive time of year. The

Mayor and relevant cabinet members are aware, and I’m sure will do everything they can to fix any issues and ensure residents don’t lose out. “If anyone didn’t receive the original Penalty Charge Notice notification letter, they should contact the council directly or via their local councillors.” While they await the Council’s official response to the issue, residents have also discussed the possibility of filing a statutory declaration with the Traffic Enforcement Centre (TEC). This option could provide them with an alternate means of redress. Claims taken through the TEC require residents to go to County Court and get a declaration signed officially. Once the claim is received by the TEC, it will prevent any further action from the local authority. The TEC will then asses the claim before making a decision. When approached for comment, a spokesperson from Croydon Council said:

“We are investigating a potential software problem that may have impacted some PCNs issued in the borough late last year. We are currently looking into this further and apologise for any inconvenience or distress that may have been caused. “We will be in direct contact with anyone affected if our investigation does uncover a fault in the system. There will be a further update this week.” Photos: Main: Ticket in Kenley. Locals say it's not worth 'chancing' a yellow line in Kenley Credit: Harrison Galliven/ LDRS Above left: Residents admit driving through traffic restricted roads, but say were not allowed to pay the lower fee Credit: Harrison Galliven/LDRS Above right: One shopper was unfortunate enough to be ticketed on the second day of the trial, January 3. Credit: Harrison Galliven/LDRS

12 NEWS

peabody incorrecTly Tells residenTs To ‘sTay puT’ if borough esTaTe caTches fire EXCLUSIVE

By Herbie Russell

TRA chiefs Liliana Cannas (left) and Janette Edwards (right) spotted the problem

reSidenTS are furious after being incorrectly told to ‘stay put’ should there be a fire by housing association Peabody.

Furious tenants say the notices posted around the Southwark Street Estate were “highly dangerous”. The oversight raises the spectre of Grenfell where 72 people died after staying put. The Home Office says it remains the correct policy for many buildings. But in this case, Peabody has admitted the wrong advice was given. A spokesperson said it was “really sorry the wrong posters were up” and admitted it “could have caused confusion”. Janette Edwards, 57, the estate’s Tenants’ and Residents’ Association (TRA) Chair, said: “Post-Grenfell, this is just crazy!” She added: “Where they have gone wrong is their lack of communication between teams because they should not be putting up stay-put notices which are highly dangerous.” Opened in 1876, the Peabody Estate housing estate has roughly 159 flats. A document seen by this newspaper shows, by September, Peabody knew the buildings were not suitable for a ‘stay put’ policy because of their Victorian design. The document said: “Due to the period of construction, the separation between flats is likely to be lath and plaster ceilings, and wooden floorboards, and would not offer the required period of fire resistance for a ‘stay put’ policy to be tenable.” However, residents have been met with signs in at least three buildings instructing them to ‘stay put’ in the event of a fire. A resident claimed the notices had been there since around October and were in more buildings which we was unable to access. Liliana Cannas, 40, TRA Vice Chair, said: “They treat us like we’re less than plebs where we’re actually asking for the basics of our enjoying our living.” The fire policy document, sent to the Tenants’ and Residents’ Association (TRA) in October 2023, also

The Peabody Estate off Southwark Street was built during the Victorian era

recommended installing an updated fire detection system. But the system, featuring interlinked heat detectors in flats’ entrance halls, wasn’t installed until mid-January, residents claim. A Peabody spokesperson said: “We’re really sorry the wrong posters were up. While they are just one of the many ways that we communicate fire safety and evacuation information to residents, it’s clear that this could have caused confusion. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.” Peabody said the posters had now been removed. It added that the time taken to install

the new system was normal and followed a process of consulting with residents, selecting a contractor and giving leaseholders notice. ‘Stay put’ policies are only suitable for blocks where ‘compartmentation’ is designed to stop fires spreading from flat to flat. However, the policy is controversial, even in buildings where ‘stay put’ is the approved policy. At Grenfell in 2017, residents were told to stay put but unsafe cladding allowed the fire to spread leading to 72 deaths. The 2009 Lakanal House fire in Camberwell claimed six lives after tenants were ordered to remain in their

homes. A recommendation from the Grenfell Inquiry, backed by Grenfell United, said building owners should outline personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs) in the event of a fire. But in 2022, the Home Office gave

renewed support to ‘say put’ policies, saying there were “significant issues” with the “practicality, proportionality and safety” of PEEPS. By June 2021, four years after Grenfell, ‘stay put’ advice had been suspended in 65 buildings in Southwark.

Cllr Darren Merrill has resigned from his post as Cabinet Member for Housing

His replacement Cllr King currently sits on the Planning Committee and has been in office since 2014. Merrill’s departure marks a tumultuous period for the department which has pledged to start building 11,000 council homes by 2043 despite difficult financial headwinds. Meanwhile, the housing revenue accounts - money used to finance repairs and major works - face a £16.7 million forecasted overspend this financial year. Southwark Council is drawing up an action plan to stabilise the housing

revenue accounts. Cllr King takes on a challenging portfolio which includes major works projects subject to fraud investigations and cancelled regeneration projects. In December, Southwark Council said it had paused building 206 council homes on the Lindley Estate, Bells Gardens and Sceaux Gardens Estate due to rising costs. Cllr Helen Dennis, filling in for Cllr Merrill at the time, said the situation was “disappointing but that “the vast majority of new homes” were “on track”.

Cllr Sarah King will take over the role

Southwark Council housing cabinet member resigns from post EXCLUSIVE

By Herbie Russell

SouThWarK CounCIl’S Cabinet member for Housing has resigned from the post meaning four department heads in under three years.

A council spokesperson confirmed Cllr Darren Merrill has stepped down and will be replaced by Champion Hill ward councillor Sarah King. Cllr Merrill, who took up the post in May 2022 after Cllr Stephanie Cryan’s move to finance, has reportedly left to “spend more time with his family”.

NEWS 13

By Isabel Ramirez

You don’T have to travel far for things to do with the kids this half-term - from craft sessions to historical fun.

Crafts for Chinese New Year in Walworth

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with craft-making at Walworth’s new library. Visit the newly opened Una Marson Library for this session - suitable for children aged 5 and over. When? 10 February 2.30 pm to 4 pm Where? Una Marson Library, 62 Thurlow Street, SE17 2GN admission: Free. (Open to all, no need to book)

Imagine Children’s Festival at Southbank Centre

Britain’s biggest children’s festival is returning to Southbank for ten days - and nearly half the shows are free. Taking place across all Southbank Centre venues, the rich and diverse festival programme includes events for all ages ranging from children’s theatre to storytelling, comedy and poetry, dance theatre, interactive installations, DJ parties, book readings, puppetry and classical music. There are more than 130 shows and activities on the programme – 40 per cent

Things To do in february haLf-Term in peCKham, souTh banK, waLworTh, surrey doCKs and more of which are free of charge. View this year’s full programme online at southbankcentre.co.uk When? 7–17 February Where? Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX admission: Free

Learn about the ‘superwomen’ in science at this museum

The Florence Nightingale Museum is hosting a special exhibition this half-term. Super Women in Stem will celebrate four trailblazing Victorian heroes; Ada Lovelace, Mary Anning, Mary Somerville and Florence Nightingale. Kids can learn about these women’s inspiring work in statistics, astronomy, computer programming and palaeontology through hands-on activities, make-andtake crafts and interactive museum trails. When? 10–18 February (closed Mon) Where? Florence Nightingale Museum, 2 Lambeth Palace Road, SE1 7EP admission: Kids £6; Adults £12

Chicken Run Funday at BFI Southbank

Free Chicken-Run-themed workshop for anyone who buys a ticket to the special family screening. Bringing half term to a close is Aardman Animation’s latest feature film - Chicken Run: Return of the Nugget at at BFI Southbank.

Ahead of the screening, there’s a free drop-in arts and crafts workshop for kids in the foyer - with a Q&A by director Sam Fell. When: Sunday 11 February (from 11:15 am, film starts at 12:30 pm) Where? BFI Southbank, admission: £3.00 - £8.00 (workshop is free to ticket holders)

Take part in these ‘70s-inspired family games

A free interactive game for families and young people - featuring dance-offs, quizzes and more. The Intergenerational Game: Lunar New Year Edition is an interactive game for families and kids being hosted at the Southbank Centre. Riffing on the 1970s TV show Generation Game, cross-disciplinary arts collective Orang Collectif presents this fun interactive family celebration full of games, dance-offs,

quiz rounds and mass participatory fun. Where? The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall at Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX When? Saturday 10 February, 10.30 am & 1.30 pm admission: Free

Part of the Imagine Children’s Festival Three Billy Goats Gruff in SE1

Following a successful run last Easter, Stiles and Drewe’s joyful hit musical returns to the Unicorn for a limited run. “Baby, Middle and Big are three very hungry goats, and there is no grass left to eat on their side of the valley. Come on their adventure as together with Little Bo-Frilly they hatch a plan to cross the bridge to the lush green grass on the other side, they just need to outwit that horrible tricksy troll first.” Directed by Justin Audibert and featuring music and lyrics by Olivier award-winning composers Stiles and Drewe (Mary Poppins, Honk!), this magical, fairy-tale show is the perfect first musical for young families. Where? Unicorn Theatre, 147 Tooley St, SE1 2HZ When? Sat 20 Jan – Sun 18 Feb admission: Under 18s £11 - £18.50 / Adults £16.50 - £27.50

The Kid’s Table

Drop the kids off for an afternoon of creating at Peckham Levels whilst you have some you-time. The Kid’s Table is a pop-up children’s corner service that provides children 3 to 10 years old with crafts, games and creative tabletop fun (all supervised). Where? Peckham Levels, 95a Rye Lane, SE15 4ST When? Select Sundays from January - May, 12 pm - 4 pm admission: Free (for customers visiting Peckham Levels)

Let the kids let off steam at these local playgrounds

Sometimes a good old-fashioned run around is all kids need - and where better than these parks on your doorstep? Jubilee Gardens, Belvedere Rd, SE1 7PG Archbishop’s Park (behind Lambeth Palace and Evelina Children’s Hospital) Bankside Open Spaces Trust, SE1 1HA Bethwin Road Adventure Playground, SE5 0HF Mint Street Adventure Playground, SE1 0AS Peckham Rye Adventure Playground, SE22 0SB Peckham Rye Common, SE15 3UH Spa Gardens Adventure Playground, SE1 3EB Surrey Docks Adventure Playground, SE16 2LN

What's On 2024

The People’s Theatre Company

There was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly Education Pack

There was an Old Lady who Swallowed a fly

DctbTshnm OTbi

Box office 020 8463 0100 • blackheathhalls.com • & DANCE PART OF TRINITY LABAN CONSERVATOIRE OF MUSIC

The People’s Theatre Company

www.ptc.org.uk

Shelf: The Kids' Show

N'Faly Kouyate Sat 10 Feb, 2.30pm

SAT 18 Nov, 11am & 3pm

Sat 17 Feb, 8pm

Sat 9 Mar, 2.30pm

Sun 26 Nov, 7pm

Blackheath Halls present:

Shelf: Teenage Men Sat 10 Feb, 8pm

Fauré & Elgar 1

Sun 17 Mar, 7.30pm Sun 3 Mar, 7pm

Sat 24 Feb 1pm & 3pm

ENJOY THE WONDERS OF WINTER SAFELY Look after yourself over winter by practicing self-care and seeking NHS help when you need it.

GENERAL PRACTICE TEAM: Your

inter is here. Taking good care of yourself and your loved ones is even more important. Darker days and cold weather can affect our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Viruses spread more easily; cold and damp weather can worsen existing health problems and make us more vulnerable to respiratory infections. There are lots of things you can do to help yourself. Eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, getting plenty of good quality sleep and doing activities that make you happy can all help. So can getting your Covid-19 and flu vaccination and continuing with frequent handwashing. Southwark health and care providers continue to work closely together as Partnership Southwark to provide joined up care for people in Southwark.

ML4911 NHS SEL CCG Southwark Vaccine Booster Advertorial Update FIN.indd 1

GET HEALTH ADVICE AND SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT SELF-CARE FIRST: If you have a cough or cold, hangover, graze, or an upset stomach you can treat the symptoms at home. In fact, staying at home and getting plenty of rest is the best place for you.

GP surgery team includes GPs, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, such as pharmacists, social prescribers, paramedics and physiotherapists. You’ll be seen by the most appropriate team member for your needs to help you get fast and effective care. To contact your GP surgery, you can call the surgery or sign up to use free, online services through the NHS App. In the NHS App, you can view and manage appointments, conveniently order repeat prescriptions, view your GP test results, and quickly check symptoms. Read more about the NHS App at www.nhs.uk. Your GP surgery will get you the right help quickly if it is urgent. This may include an appointment out of hours through the local Extended Primary Care Services or at another local NHS service.

NHS 111: If you need urgent advice outside of GP hours, go to NHS 111 online to find out how to get the right healthcare in Southwark, including whether you need to see a GP or seek urgent care. If you don’t have the internet, call 111 to speak to a trained advisor. The service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

PHARMACY: Pharmacists are highly skilled and qualified healthcare professionals who are readily available in the community to answer questions about common health problems. You don’t need an appointment, and many are open late. If symptoms suggest it is something serious, pharmacists have the right training to make sure you get the help you need. For example, they will tell you if you need to see a GP, nurse, or other healthcare professional. Find out about the Pharmacy First scheme in Southwark at selondonics.org/ PharmacyFirst-Southwark

UTCs (urgent treatment centres): UTCs provide medical help for minor injuries and nonlife-threatening emergencies like breaks and sprains, wound dressing, or an X-ray. Read more about when to visit an urgent treatment centre (walk-in centre or minor injury unit) at selondonics.org/ NHS-urgent-treatment-centre

A&E: You should call 999 in a life-threatening emergency only. If you cannot call 999 for any reason, go straight to A&E.

31/10/2023 16:32

NEWS 15

locals can save on heaTing and socialise aT The many warm spaces across souThwark By Isabel Ramirez

THE FULL LIST OF WARM SPACES IS BELOW

more THan thirty venues across the borough have opened their doors once more to help locals struggling with their heating bills keep warm this winter.

Last year’s initiative saw over 1000 people use the spaces to keep warm, have a hot meal or drink, and meet others. It was brought in during the height of the cost of living crisis, where many households are finding themselves struggling with energy prices and the cost of heating their homes. Southwark’s network of warm spaces is back for the second year running, with investment boosted by £43k from Southwark Council to support venues across the borough. All council libraries and children’s centres, plus a range of voluntary and community sector sites, are operating warm spaces. In total, there are thirtyfour warm hubs. South London Mission is one of the hubs in Bermondsey. The grassroots organisation has been doing vital work to support local communities for over 130 years. Throughout the year, the mission provides food and other essentials through its pantry hampers using donations from local partners. The mission provides weekly box meal kits to local schools which have everything families need to prepare a healthy meal together. Winnie Baffoe, Director of Engagement and Influence at South London Mission, said: “The giving of food is not worthy of accolade, but evidence of a broken social system. “Projects such as our Pantry provide a window into understanding the experience of poverty. “Poverty takes away choice. The choice of where you can live, whether

Convicted: Jake Simms

For older people • • • • • • •

Age UK Lewisham & Southwark Time & Talents Time & Talents 2 Southwark Pensioners’ Centre Blackfriars Settlement Link Age Southwark Southwark Carers

•

Coin Street Family and Children’s Centre 1st Place Children and Parents Centre Victory Primary School and Children’s Centre Ellen Brown Centre Pilgrims’ Way Centre Rotherhithe Centre South Bermondsey Centre Crawford Centre Albrighton Centre Dulwich Wood Centre The Grove Centre Rye Oak Centre Ivydale Centre Ann Bernadt Centre Leyton Square Centre

For children and families • •

Winnie with service users at the South London Mission to heat your home, what food to cook, and even how to cook it. Poverty eats away at childhood. But childhood is not a dress rehearsal for life – it is life itself and must be lived to the fullest. Childhood must be protected.” “By offering a warm space, we are able to connect and support people through the network of new friends, charity partners, the statutory and private sectors.” The mission also supports isolated or vulnerable mothers through their Mummies Republic community group. Single mum, Blanca, 47, was first introduced to the Mummies Republic support group in 2016 when she was pregnant with her daughter. She told us: “Every month I struggle

with my bills, especially as everything in my house is electric. Things are even harder now that I have lost my job where I was working very long hours. “I don’t know where my daughter and I would be without Winnie and the South London Mission. Winnie is so kind and makes sure we get fresh, good food. I am always very happy with the food they give me.” Cllr Stephanie Cryan, Cabinet Member for Communities, Democracy and Finance: “Last year, we had well over 1,000 people access warm spaces across our borough. It’s a sobering number and shows there’s very clearly a need, which is why we’ve brought warm spaces back this

winter. “The cost of living crisis has touched every corner of our community, with people of all ages seeking not just warmth but also a friendly chat and food in our warm spaces. “We are proud to working once again with our incredible network of community partners, including South London Mission. Together, we are able to support more people who are struggling to get by as the cost of living crisis shows no sign of relenting.” As well as from the council, funding also came from United St Saviours, Southwark Charities and Rotherhithe Consolidated Charities. Find a warm space on Southwark Council’s website here.

By Herbie Russell

Attending patrols established a Toyota Prius was being used and was headed towards London. A pursuit through south east London ensued, ending when the car collided with a police vehicle. Police said Simms was detained in the driver’s seat. A Kent Police spokesperson said Simms’ associate has not been identified and remains outstanding. Officers also found a bag containing a long screwdriver, gloves and a hammer. Detectives said the tools had been discarded from the vehicle during the chase and were found by a police dog handler. Simms was later charged with burglary, dangerous driving, driving without a licence and driving without insurance. Police said he pleaded guilty to all charges. Following his conviction, Simms will be disqualified from driving for two

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Libraries • • • • • • • • • • • •

Blue Anchor Library Brandon Library Camberwell Library Canada Water Library Dulwich Library Grove Vale Library John Harvard Library Kingswood Library Nunhead Library Peckham Library Southwark Heritage Centre and Walworth Library Una Marson Library

Borough man jailed after burgling Kent supermarket - before colliding with police vehicle during getaway

a BorouGh man has been jailed after burgling a Kent supermarket, before colliding with a police car during his getaway.

Police believe Jake Simms, 29, of Long Lane, thought targeting a rural shop would reduce “the chances of being caught”. He pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment on Tuesday, January 23. Police said Simms travelled with another person to a Co-op store in East Peckham, Kent, at 11.40pm on June 23, 2023. They then forced his way into the premises and stole two cash boxes before fleeing the scene in a car. Witnesses reported the incident, telling police he was in a medium-sized black vehicle.

years on his release and will have to take an extended driving test. Detective Constable Andrew Palmer, of the Kent Crime Squad, said: “Simms and his accomplice thought targeting a rural supermarket outside the capital city reduced the chances of being caught. “Their confidence was misplaced and some quick investigation ensured their getaway vehicle was identified and he was ultimately tracked down by patrols as he sped home. “Simms’ disregard for the safety of other road users was reprehensible and it is entirely appropriate that he has been jailed. “I would like to thank the members of the public who alerted us when they saw the burglary taking place and this ensured his prompt arrest and the recovery of evidence vital to his conviction.”

16 NEWS

roTherhiThe man who sTole £400k of Jewellery in a one-man Crime wave is Jailed for 4 years, 8 monThs By Herbie Russell

a roTHerHiTHe crook who stole £400,000 worth of jewellery and assaulted an innocent female victim has been jailed.

Shocking police footage shows the moment Peter Dixon, 44, was arrested as he tried to make a getaway in a taxi in May last year. He was sentenced to four years and eight months’ imprisonment at Southwark Crown Court on Friday, January 12. Police, who foiled Dixon after recovering a black glove he wore during his stealing spree, said his crimes were “frightening” and “traumatic. Dixon targeted a supermarket, jewellery store and Post Office in Central London during his one-man crime wave

from May 15 to May 25, 2023. At around 5.25pm on Monday, May 15, Dixon stole €510 from a customer in a currency exchange shop on Victoria Street in south west London. The victim suffered bruising to her face and legs after being punched in the face and assaulted. On Thursday, May 25, at around 10.40am, Dixon entered a cash office connected to a supermarket on Rochester Row. He tried to access the safe by threatening the manager but left empty-handed. That same day, he tried to rob a Post Office on Vauxhall Bridge Road, grabbing and assaulting a customer. Police were called to the scene but Dixon was able to flee. In his third attempt that day, at around 11.58pm, Dixon burgled a jeweller in

Convicted: Peter Dixon

A black glove recovered during his arrest was also identiﬁed as a match to the one Dixon was wearing in CCTV captured during some of the offences

Burlington Gardens where he took up to £400,000 worth of jewellery. He escaped in a taxi but was chased by officers who stopped the vehicle and discovered Dixon had all the stolen jewellery. With Dixon in custody, a CCTV investigation established he was the man

responsible for all of the robberies. A black glove recovered during his arrest also matched one he was wearing in CCTV during some of the offences. Dixon was found guilty of robbery, two counts of attempted robbery, burglary, actual bodily harm, and common assault in commercial properties.

The Suite is named after Peace, a devoted King’s midwife who sadly passed away in 2015 after a cancer diagnosis. Melvin, Peace’s widower, said: “Peace did so much to care for families and babies in her role as a midwife at King’s, and it is an honour to have her name remembered in this way by the Trust. She was an incredible person and we will always miss her, but her legacy will continue.” Tracey Carter, Chief Nurse and Executive Director of Midwifery at King’s, said: “This project has meant a lot to all of us, particularly colleagues who worked alongside Peace. We wanted to provide a compassionate and caring environment

for families going through a heartbreaking experience, allowing them to process their loss with privacy, empathy and specialised support.” Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP commented: “I’d like to thank the King’s midwives and everyone who has worked so hard to make sure families experiencing baby loss can benefit from this space. I hope it will provide a sanctuary for those who are sadly in the first stages of the grieving process. “It has been a privilege to meet with Peace’s family today and hear about her life. I am so happy we can honour her memory in this way.”

distinctive south bank ‘ﬁngerpost’ new suite to support families who have lost chosen for protection on local list a baby opens at King’s College hospital

Photo: Martin Deutsch (Creative Commons)

The South Bank ﬁngerpost

Bell Ribero-Addy MP on a tour of the suite

By Isabel Ramirez By Herbie Russell a diSTinCTive South Bank sign has been recognised as being especially significant in lambeth Council’s ‘local list’.

The colour-coded fingerpost, dating back to the era of the Greater London Council, is among hundreds of objects and buildings earmarked for conservation. The signpost, situated at Waterloo Bridge’s southern end, directs pedestrians to Hayward Gallery, the National Theatre and other important landmarks.

Tim Dunn, presenter on ‘The Architecture the Railways Built’, nominated the waymarker for recognition. The 20th Century Society, a group preserving architecture built after 1900, wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “This fabulous GLC-era fingerpost on London’s Southbank has now been added to the Lambeth local list! Bravo to @MrTimDunn for proposing it.” The local list also includes a Gothicrevival church in Brixton, The Duke of Sussex pub in Waterloo and a Chopin sculpture at Royal Festival Hall.

a neW area to support families who have experienced baby loss has opened at King’s College Hospital.

Based in the maternity unit at King’s, the Peace Bereavement Suite is the department’s first dedicated space offering comfort and privacy for bereaved families who wish to spend time with their babies in an environment that is close to the medical team. This week, the suite was opened at King’s College Hospital by Bell RibeiroAddy MP.

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18 NEWS

Merton Councillor claims she was suspended from Labour party over her ‘ceasefire now’ comments By Harrison Galliven

Local Democracy Reporter A Merton councillor has been suspended from the local Labour group and will now stand as an independent councillor until the local council elections in May. Ravensbury ward councillor, Caroline Charles, has been suspended from the group and while it is not clear why, Cllr Charles believes it to be because of her vocal support for a ceasefire in the Israel/Gaza conflict. Charles, who has served as one of the three councillors of the Ravensbury ward since May 2022, was informed by Merton Council of her suspension last night (January 25). In recent weeks she has posted frequently on X in support of a ceasefire and against Labour’s official stance on the conflict at a local and national level. Posting on X last night, Charles said: “Just been told by @Merton_Council that I’ve been kicked out of the Labour Group. No one had the decency to inform me. It’s because I said ‘Ceasefire Now’. Don’t be shy. Admit it.” Following this announcement, Cllr Charles commented on fellow exLabour councillor for Dewsbury West, Ammar Anwar’s, decision to become an independent. She said: “I’m joining you Ammar. I just can’t go along with this bullying and intolerance any longer. I’m out too.” Cllr Charles has since disassociated from the local party, with whom she has campaigned for a number of years. So far, Merton Labour has yet to comment on her suspension and it is unclear if she has

officially left the national party. The ward’s two other Labour councillors, Peter McCabe and Stephen Alambritis MBE, are also yet to comment on her suspension. Her announcement has drawn wide-ranging support from residents and individuals across the political spectrum. Pippa Maslin, the Green Party’s London Assembly candidate for the Merton and Wandsworth constituency, and parliamentary candidate for the Mitcham and Morden constituency, gave words of encouragement from across the aisle. She said: “You have always struck me as someone who works very hard, genuinely cares, and is prepared to work with other parties for the common good, @

CllrCarolineRav. I have long had the feeling that @MertonLabour have sidelined you instead of applauding and supporting you.” Fellow Green Party member, Andrea K Heywood, said: “Solidarity to you Caroline for speaking out and saying what is right.” Other commenters noted that those in Ravensbury ward have yet to be officially informed of their councillor’s suspension. Her suspension follows the resignation and suspension of a handful of other councillors across the country following the Labour Party’s stance on the IsraelGaza conflict. Sheldon Vestey, one of Sutton’s two Labour councillors was also one to comment on the announcement. The Hackbridge ward councillor noted: “In

Sutton our group supports a call for a ceasefire now.” Fellow Sutton Labour councillor, Dave Tchill, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “I don’t know Caroline well but all reports suggest that she was a hardworking councillor for the area. I want Labour to be strong and cohesive and believe we should be broad and inclusive.” In an official joint statement published by the Sutton and Cheam, Wallington and Carshalton Labour group, they said: “We therefore call for the immediate and safe release of all hostages held by Hamas and for all involved in the conflict to respect international law. “In the view of the humanitarian disaster

unfolding in Gaza, we join the growing international calls for a ceasefire on all sides leading to renewed talks aimed at securing long-term peace in the Middle East.” Merton Labour have not yet made a similar call for a ceasefire. Merton Labour group was approached for comment but failed to provide one in time for publication. Photos: Caroline Charles has been vocal in her opposition to Labour's official stance on the Israel/Gaza conflict Credit: Merton Council Caroline Charles was elected as a councillor for Ravensbury ward in May 2022, alongside Peter McCabe and Stephen Alambritis MBE Credit: MertonTV

Khan: fare dodging on capital's public transport 'still too high', urging Londoners to report it to station staff By Noah Vickers

Local Democracy Reporter Sadiq Khan has warned that fare dodging on the capital’s public transport is “still too high”, as he urged Londoners to report it to station staff when they see it. Transport for London (TfL) estimates that it lost about £130m in income due to fare dodging in the 2022-23 financial year. Some 3.9 per cent of journeys were unpaid in that period – about one in 25. TfL’s target is to bring fare evasion down to 1.5 per cent of journeys. The mayor told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Since 2016, fare evasion has gone down, but it’s still too high. That’s one of the reasons why we now employ around 500 enforcement officers who go about to make sure people have paid the right fares… “I’d encourage anybody who sees somebody evading fares to report that to a member of staff.” The issue was raised earlier this month by Mr Khan’s Tory mayoral opponent Susan Hall, who said in a piece for LBC that she would “ask TfL to deliver smart, innovative

solutions that make fare-dodging a nightmare for perpetrators, without affecting staff safety”. She added: “We need to bring back a culture where playing by the rules is expected of all of us, and where getting caught has serious consequences. “When I talk to Londoners, so many have told me of their fury when they see fare dodgers thumbing their noses at fellow passengers. It’s a slap in the face of every honest commuter.” Asked whether the cost of living crisis may be making Londoners less willing to pay their fares, the mayor said: “We know generally across the society, the cost of living crisis has led to an increase in other forms of acquisitive crime – shoplifting and so forth. “One of the reasons why I was keen to freeze fares next year – I’ve frozen fares five of the last eight years – is to ensure that public transport in London continues to be as affordable as it can be. “Bus fares in London are the cheapest in the country, for those that don’t know, it’s £1.75.” The mayor’s last comment ap-

peared to be a tongue-in-cheek reference to Ms Hall telling LBC on Monday that she did not know the price of a London bus fare.

It was revealed in December that TfL plans to expand a trial which has used artificial intelligence (AI) on the Tube to try to reduce fare

evasion. Computer technology that can identify passengers likely to jump ticket barriers has been tested at Willesden Green station, on the Jubilee line. The mayor recently announced that he will be increasing the penalty charge for fare dodging from £80 to £100. Asked whether this would be enough to improve the situation, Mr Khan said: “The reason why we did that is to be consistent with the Department for Transport (DfT) increase – so the DfT increased fines on National Rail and we’ve made sure ours are in line with that.” Figures presented to TfL’s customer service panel in December showed that there was a 26 per cent increase in penalty fares being served on fare dodgers between April and September 2023, compared with the same period in 2022. However TfL was said to have a shortage of almost 200 enforcement officers. Only 452 of the 551 posts were said to be filled – and of those at work, 81 were seconded onto other duties, leaving only 371 available to catch fare-dodgers.

NEWS 19

Croydon Council’s ‘failing’ library service could see four locations close across the borough following post COVID visitor slump

By Harrison Galliven

Local Democracy Reporter Four of Croydon’s libraries could close according to new proposals put forward by the council. The council states the closure is based on the poor post-COVID slump in visitation as well as the overall costs of running all 13 centres in the borough. Bradmore Green near Coulsdon, Broad Green, Sanderstead, and Shirley have been identified as the four that could close. Croydon Council said the proposal ‘is based on analysis of the buildings including visitor numbers, size and condition of the buildings, the size and needs of the communities they serve, and running costs’. The local authority said their closure will allow them to focus on providing extended hours and better outreach services for their remaining nine centres. They also specified that six libraries (Central, Ashburton, Thornton Heath, Norbury, Selsdon and Coulsdon) could return to opening five to six days a week as a result of the changes. In an exclusive interview with the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), Mayor Jason Perry said: “Essentially we’ve got a failing service, it’s not delivering what it should be delivering despite the best efforts of our staff to make the best of a difficult situation.” The local authority has insisted no jobs will be lost from this ‘remodelling’ and has suggested librarians who currently work in the affected locations may be able to transfer. They have also maintained that all the money saved on building costs will be spent on improving the nine remaining sites. Cllr Perry added: “This is not about cutting the funding, what we are actually proposing is an increase in staff and in order to do that we are proposing to reduce our buildings. The four libraries that have come forward for closure are generally smaller libraries with much lower usage rates mirroring less than 2% of the total of the borough.” All but one of Croydon’s libraries have significantly shortened their hours of operation since the onset of COVID in 2020.

This downscaling is also the result of the stringent spending constraints imposed on the borough following its bankruptcy. Some libraries have had their hours reduced from six days a week to as little as two. Broad Green, which sits in a purposebuilt space halfway between Croydon and Thornton Heath, is one such library. Broad Green is now only open two days a week, down from three only a year ago. While council research shows it has slightly increased its visitation numbers since a year ago, the number of visitors in 2022-23 at 11,315 pales in comparison to the 2018-19 number of 46,364. Despite these numbers, the library still plays host to a number of community groups and provides book and IT services to one of Croydon’s poorest wards. When the LDRS visited Broad Green, the library was hosting a disability outreach group and had a handful of people reading and using the computers. Speaking to the LDRS outside the library, one mother-of-two said: “It’s not good news, it’s a nice place to go in the day and many rely on places like these. I have to admit though, it never seems that busy any more and it’s never open when I need it.”

This echoed the reality of what was seen inside the library, which was relatively empty on one of its two opening days. One librarian told the LDRS: “Because we’re only open two days a week, we are quite restricted.” Dr Manju Shahul-Hameed, Labour councillor for the Broad Green ward, told the LDRS: “Every Monday and Thursday, a community organisation utilises the library space to provide essential training programs and run healthy lifestyle initiatives, including yoga sessions. This organisation has become an invaluable resource for our community, offering opportunities for skill development and promoting wellbeing. “The potential closure of the library would undoubtedly have a detrimental impact on the accessibility of such crucial community programs. It’s disheartening to consider the negative repercussions this decision could have, especially for the vulnerable populations in our community who rely on these services.” Fellow ward councillor Stuart Collins added: “I opened the library and fought against the Conservatives closing it in 2012, so I’m really upset to hear this vital community library is again being

threatened by the current Conservativerun council. Every alternative should be explored before closing it.” The decision to close libraries was previously put forward by the then Labour-led administration in 2022, before a decision was made to reduce opening hours across the board instead. While this has meant that all 13 libraries have remained open, their visitor numbers have dropped drastically as a result. The decision, therefore, to partly base the plans to close the four libraries on recent visitor numbers has raised concern from a number of people, who have dubbed it a ‘self-fulfilling prophecy’ and a ‘short-sighted measure’. Peter Underwood, who is running to be the Green Party’s candidate for the Croydon and Sutton constituency in this year’s London Assembly election, has been vocal in his concern over the proposed closures. Speaking to the LDRS, he said: “We’ve got a general election coming up in the next 12 months, and if you believe the polling, the government is going to change. “There’s a possibility there might be more money coming back into public services in which case, instead of a library opening two days a week, it might be able

to open five days a week. “My worry with the current position is that they are not only reducing the service, but they’re also preventing it from ever being restored. Once it’s gone it’s gone and it prevents anyone having a better set of services in the future.” Outside of the four closures, the proposals suggest changes to three smaller libraries that receive low visitor numbers but are nonetheless vital for their area. These three libraries are Purley, New Addington and South Norwood. The council has said the current set-up in these libraries is not working and instead is proposing to introduce community hubs in an attempt to bolster visitor numbers. In their words, this is ‘where a library would be available alongside other services such as family and adult education services and community partnerships’. However, Underwood seemed sceptical about this remodelling, saying: “They say they are going to replace it with a community hub, but why not keep the library and move the community hub services in there? Somebody once said, unkindly, that a community hub is just a coffee shop with a bookshelf. It is not a library.” He added: “There are huge socio-economic reasons why people use libraries, as was raised last winter with the warm hubs idea where people would go and sit and read in a library for a few hours and keep warm. If you have the facility, you can do a lot more with it than if you didn’t.” Croydon Council has said the 10-week consultation on the future of the libraries will follow next Wednesday’s cabinet meeting. They have also encouraged residents to ‘have their say on the proposals and share their ideas for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the library service’.

Photos: Four libraries could close by the end of the year if the proposals go ahead Broad Green Library has seen successive reductions in opening hours since COVID Credit: Harrison Galliven/LDRS Peter Underwood believes the decision to sell the closed libraries is short-sighted Credit: Peter Underwood

20 ARTS

what’s on

barbiCan goes Two-Tone

THere WaS an age when ska and reggae were deep underground and only to be heard in specialist record shops and clubs where many feared to tread, writes Michael Holland.

Those of us there in the late 60s made it the soundtrack to our formative years and we developed a fashion of Ben Shermans, Dr Martens, Levis and half-inch braces. During winter months we donned Crombies, sheepskins and Harrington jackets, but, as is customary among teenagers, within a year or two we had moved on and our cropped hair was allowed to grow as Led Zeppelin and other bands of that ilk became the new religion. When, though, ten years after, a revival was stirring up the Midlands we were among the first to embrace a return to that era when bands dressing as we once did covered the old tunes we once loved. Coventry’s Two Tone record label were trailblazers for that revival. The Two Tone aspect of the label was the racial mix of the musicians, who themselves reflected the community they grew up in. The logo was black

and white. An exhibition - From The Caribbean 2 Coventry - throws a spotlight on the music and fashion that led many working class youth through that brief period in the late 70s-early 80s by taking them back a decade and bringing Ska music into the mainstream - but this time with a faster, more hi-energy beat. Now in our mid-20s we weren’t too

Photo: Manuel Harlan

music To beaT fascisTs wiTh

keen on putting on the skinhead bovver boots again but a good button-down shirt is a timeless classic, as was the music being covered by The Specials and other Ska-influenced bands. Curated by Camberwell’s Mark Baxter and David Burke, From The Caribbean 2 Coventry is advertised as ‘For the fans, by the fans’ so glass display cases hold an array of C60 cassettes, big Rizlas, ashtrays with adverts on, Gabicci tops,

45s and record racks. Because the revival came from the street there are no exhibits of clothes once worn by the stars that built up the revival as would be seen in any exhibition of Elvis, Rod Stewart, Elton John et al, Terry Hall’s Harrington Jacket or Pauline Black’s loafers would look rather odd on a display mannequin as they could just as well be anyones jacket or shoes. There

THe WorLd premiere of the revolutionary new British musical Cable Street - opens at The Large, Southwark Playhouse Borough on Friday 16 February.

million Jews, Irish workers, trade unions, the labour and communist parties, women and children unite to blockade the road they all call home. As the people raise their voices and take a united stand against hatred, the lives of the streets’ residents are changed forever. Discovering there were so many connections to The Battle of Cable Street still resonating today, composer/lyricist Tim Gilvin and playwright Alex Kanefsky decided that Cable Street must feature a contemporary score: bringing to life a vital part of London’s rich diversity and history. In an extraordinary twist of fate, Joshua Ginsberg’s great-grandfather Isidor Baum fought at The Battle of Cable Street, returning home bleeding profusely but victorious – true life reflecting art. And researching their own families, several of the cast and production

Cable Street is a topical and electrifying reimagining of one of London’s most momentous days – celebrating a community who came together with a call for action, as The Battle of Cable Street was fought and won. With racial tensions running high, people marched and took to the streets of London… A timeless story, as powerful today as it was in 1936. It’s October 1936 in the heart of London’s East End. Sammy (Joshua Ginsberg), Mairead (Sha Dessi) and Ron (Danny Colligan) are carving out their own futures on Cable Street when Oswald Mosley’s British Union of Fascists (Blackshirts) start to march on East London. Half a

are, though, directions to the retailers who can supply everything needed to replicate the Rude Boy look showcased so well in the exhibition. A board displayed fans’ emailed memories of those days with photos of them in the ‘uniform’ - All tales from those reliving a special time in their lives. I felt, though, that there was not enough content from the Coventry part of the title. There were some nice testimonials from people with Black heritage but were not from the Midlands. One of them was from Londoner Rhoda Dakar, who did record for Two Tone in the early days and has kept the faith ever since, but this show needed a voice from the heart and hub of what Two Tone was; someone who could describe Coventry and its music scene in the late 70s. To find that out you need to go to the website. There is a letter from Jerry Dammers - one of the absolute main men of Two Tone - but it is a letter to a fan about losing his false teeth. ‘By fans, for fans’ is a worthy way to put an exhibition together but more from those who were there and making it happen would have taken the exhibition up another level. From The Caribbean 2 Coventry succeeds in evoking memories of a time when your mates and music and Tonik mohair was everything you needed, when your only responsibility was getting up to go to school, so go along and get your nostalgia fix. Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London, EC2Y 8DS until 25th May. Admission: Free Website: https:// fromthecaribbean2coventry.co.uk/

team emotionally find their own connection to the East End and the 4 October 1936: their ancestors also defended this diverse community from fascist intimidation at The Battle of Cable Street with cries of They Shall Not Pass. Borough, 77-85 Newington Causeway, London, SE1 6BD southwarkplayhouse.co.uk Booking: 020 7407 0234 boxoffice@southwarkplayhouse.co.uk Box Office opens Monday – Saturday 10:00am-6pm Friday 16 February - £10 Pioneer Preview – all seats £10. 17 February – 24 February – all seats £16 during previews 26 February – 16 March - £35 standard / £28 concessions Evening show: 7:30pm Matinees: Tuesday and Saturdays at 3pm. Suggested age 13+

NEWS ARTS 21

Arts

landscapes reTold in dulwich picTure gallery SoulSCaPeS IS a major exhibition of landscape art that will expand and redefine the genre.

Featuring more than 30 contemporary works, it will span painting, photography, film, tapestry and collage from leading artists including Hurvin Anderson, Phoebe Boswell, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, Kimathi Donkor, Isaac Julien, Marcia Michael, Mónica de Miranda and Alberta Whittle, as well as some of the most important emerging voices working today. Soulscapes will explore our connection with the world around us through the eyes of artists from the African Diaspora. It will consider the power of landscape art and reflect on themes of belonging, memory, joy and transformation. The exhibition will open by examining the theme of belonging in relation to the natural world and consider the varied ways we experience the land and how this relates to our sense of identity, connection and safety;

Soulscapes considers the issues that arise out of interactions with our everyday environments, positioning the Black figure in rural settings to instigate conversations around power, identity and the history of the English Landscape. Reflecting on landscapes and memory, the Gallery’s mausoleum will be home to a meditative video work created over the course of six years that documents daily life in Zanzibar. Soulscapes will celebrate the power of landscapes to evoke joy and pleasure, whether through the representation of personal experiences or through its expression in composition, colour and style. Black subjects are depicted enjoying nature. Finally, the exhibition will explore the transformative power of nature to stimulate healing, renewal and wellbeing. The exhibition is curated by Lisa Anderson, Managing Director of the Black Cultural Archives and founder of Black British Art. Anderson said: “Soulscapes grew from the periods

of enforced ‘lockdown’ that millions experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic. During the same period, the question of racial equality in the wake of George Floyd’s murder and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement helped ignite conversation about inclusion and social justice. These historical moments gave way to new possibilities for landscape art, which is being interrogated by

duchess aT The playhouse ShaKeSPeare’S GloBe announced the cast of The duchess of Malfi, directed by rachel Bagshaw. The cast comprises Jamie Ballard, david Burnett, Tamzin Griffin, olivier Huband, arthur Hughes, oliver Johnstone, hari MacKinnon, Francesca Mills, Shazia nicholls and Glyn Pritchard.

This is the final production of the 10th Anniversary Sam Wanamaker Playhouse Season. Director Rachel Bagshaw says: “I am absolutely thrilled to be directing this extraordinary play with a company of outstanding actors. This domestic tragedy is a story which still speaks to us now in horrifying ways and was built for intimacy of the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.” This production uses creative captioning throughout each performance. Select seats offer a clearer view of the captions due to the unique architecture of the theatre. To find out more about creative captions please visit shakespearesglobe.com. Sam Wanamaker Playhouse from 17 February – 14 April. Times: Tues Sat 7.30pm; Sun 6.30pm; Matinees vary. Admission: £5 -£65. Booking: www.shakespearesglobe.com

artists in new and expansive ways. At a time when global consciousness has been profoundly attuned to the precariousness and power of the natural world in our lives, I hope this exhibition will challenge perceptions of our relationship with nature.” Jennifer Scott, Director of Dulwich Picture Gallery, said: “Soulscapes marks a new approach to landscape art. Featuring some of the greatest artists

of our day, it’s an exciting opportunity to re-present the genre within Dulwich Picture Gallery, the home of the celebrated European landscape masters of the past. This visually stunning exhibition highlights the contemporary relevance of nature in art and its universal possibilities of healing, reflection and belonging.” Dulwich Picture Gallery from 14th February - 2nd June

Transgression Life in the Aftermath of the Eocene iT’S THe 1990s and the societal revolution to smash the nuclear family is on the horizon.

A psychoanalyst battles against the demise of established traditions, while younger women debate pregnancy and the relevance of a father’s name on a birth certificate. It’s all an uphill campaign to rattle the patriarchy until a father and son face the unthinkable. When the dust settles a new birth order awaits future generations. Transgression by Loretta Monaco, directed by Bryan Oliver, is a ferociously funny play. Cast: Bruce Allinson was Westmoreland in Antic Disposition’s production of

Shakespeare’s Henry V (Temple Church, London & Bath Abbey). Alexandra Etudor was Kerry in Love They Fro (Theatre Peckham). Zara Hadeshian was Goneril in King Lear (Yard Players). Jonathan Hansler was Stalin in Vodka With Stalin (Upstairs at the Gatehouse). Abigail Moore was Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland (Wonderment Players). White Bear Theatre, 138 Kennington Park Road, London, SE11 4DJ. Dates: 16th - 27th January. ~Times: Tue Sat 7:30pm. Admission: £17 Standard; £13 Concs. 90mins with 15min Interval Booking: https://carnyxproduction.com/

22 HISTORY

History

una marson aCTivisT, poeT, playwrighT and broadcasTer

Una Marson and Learie Constantine at the BBC in 1941 Calling the West Indies

By Stephen Bourne una MarSon has a special place in Southwark’s history and it isn’t surprising to find that, in 2009, a Southwark heritage Blue Plaque was unveiled on her former home in Brunswick Square, Camberwell. more recently she has become the first Black woman in Britain to have a library named in her honour (the launch event took place on 1 February) and she is also featured in the Camberwell Black History Walk, which was launched on Camberwell green on 3 February.

Born in Jamaica in 1905, when she arrived in London in 1932 she was helped by a fellow Jamaican, Dr Harold Moody, and his family. They offered Una a room in their home at 164 Queen’s Road, Peckham where she was employed as the secretary for Dr Moody’s influential organisation the League of Coloured Peoples. Una was a feminist who believed in equality for women. In addition to her work as a social activist, Una’s literary pursuits included publishing poetry and plays. These eventually led to her being employed by BBC Radio. After moving to a new home in Brunswick Square, Camberwell, Una joined the staff of the BBC. During the Second World War, she was one of the most influential women at the BBC. After relocating to a new home in Hampstead, in March 1941 she became the BBC’s first Black woman programme maker. Through her popular weekly series

The Una Marson Library, Thurlow Street, SE17

Una Marson Blue Plaque Brunswick Square

Calling the West Indies which was broadcast on the BBC’s Empire Service (later the World Service), Una read out messages from West Indian servicemen and women in England to their families and friends in the Caribbean. Listeners throughout the islands gathered in front of their radios to listen to Una’s broadcasts, hoping to hear from their loved ones. It was the time of the London Blitz but, despite the air raids, Una and her guests broadcast from BBC Broadcasting House near Oxford Circus. Although it was dangerous, Una understood the importance and value of Calling the West Indies. Towards the end of 1942, Una took part in George Orwell’s BBC Radio series Voice.

This enabled poets and novelists to read their work on the air. Afterwards Una devised her own literary series, based on Orwell’s format, by transforming a segment of Calling the West Indies into ‘Caribbean Voices’, a literary item that was influential in shaping the future of the literary development of the Caribbean. ‘Caribbean Voices’ was a landmark because at that time very few poets and playwrights from the West Indies had been published. It gave them opportunities to raise their profile – and earn some money. It is now recognised as the single most important literary catalyst for both creative and critical writings in the Caribbean. In schools in the Caribbean, students were taught the

works of English literary figures such as Shakespeare, Dickens, Keats and Yeats. No West Indian writers were acknowledged, and no one was encouraged to write in Jamaican patois. ‘Caribbean Voices’ helped to change this. After the war ended, Una returned to Jamaica and continued her work in politics, broadcasting and literature. Una died in Kingston, Jamaica on 6 May 1965 at the age of sixty. una Marson Commemorations Southwark Heritage Blue Plaque, Brunswick Square, Camberwell SE5 Camberwell Black History Walk begins on Camberwell Green SE5. It is researched

and written by Stephen Bourne with illustrations by Tayo Fatunla Una Marson Library, 62 Thurlow Street, Walworth SE17 One of Una Marson’s poems can be seen on the glass at Denmark Hill station Further reading (these publications are all available to loan from Southwark Libraries) Delia Jarrett-Macauley, The Life of Una Marson 1905-65 (Manchester University Press, 1998) Alison Donnell (editor), Una Marson: Selected Poems (Peepal Tree, 2011) Stephen Bourne, War to Windrush: Black Women in Britain 1939-45 (Jacaranda Books, 2018)

CLASSIFIED 23

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Valentine’s message by Monday Feb 5th to katie@cmmedia.co.uk To appear in Feb 8th edition Text only -

WANTED RECORDS ROCK, POP, PUNK, INDIE, REGGAE, SOUL...

ScotsCare is here to help and support Scots and their families in Greater London

LPS AND SINGLES - WHOLE COLLECTIONS WELCOME

Call: 07956 832314 / 020 8677 6907 Or Email: vinylwanted@aol.com

ALSO INTERESTED IN NON CHART CD COLLECTIONS

To find out more, visit

Southwark Pensioners’ Centre

www.scotscare.com

Supporting older people in Southwark for over 35 years. Offering advice, support, activities, rooms for hire and a voice for older people.

or call

0800 652 2989 to speak with a case worker to see how we can assist you.

Contact us on 020 7708 4556 or info@southwarkpensioners.org.uk Or pop into 305 -307 Camberwell rd, Camberwell Green, SE5 0HQ

Registered Charity No.207326

PAVING METRO PAVING

Elim House Day Centre

YOU MATTER TO US programme started Tuesday 9th May. 100 Day programme combating loneliness within our elders

• Block Paving • Brickwork • Crazy Paving • Artiﬁcial Lawns • Fencing • 40 Yrs Experience

All works guaranteed Public Liability Insurance Mob: 07944 634618 Tel: 020 8319 4242

We are accepting walk-ins

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Email: patbrennan0019@gmail.com

max of 20 words

SESSION PLAN

Tuesdays 10am-2pm

Week 1 (6th Feb) Orientation & introduction. Understanding local SIGNUP HE RE

democracy with a focus on council decision making. HALF-TERM (13th Feb) – no session

REE

F ks10 wee ril A b Fe p 2024

Week 2 (20th Feb) Methods for mass engagement. Test new skills, including phone banking, street canvassing and door knocking. Week 3 (27th Feb) Challenging power and privilege (Part 1: Relationships and local dynamics at an individual and system level).

Neighbourhood Leaders Training A training programme to help us grow the skills needed to build a better neighbourhood. From exploring how local decisions are made, to challenging power and privilege, and building collective visions for new spaces and services. You are invited to come and learn alongside the Pembroke House team, and grow your neighbourhood building skills for 2024 and beyond! When: Tuesdays 10am-2pm 6th Feb - 16th April 2024

FIND OUT MORE:

Where: Walworth Living Room Surrey Square, SE172JU

Week 4 (5th Mar) Challenging power & privilege (Part 2) + Conflict resolution in community settings (Part 1) Week 5 (12th Mar) Conflict resolution in Community Settings (part 2). How do we navigate conflict and negotiate? + Interim reflections Week 6 (19th Mar) Building collective visions. What is collective visioning, and how do we do it? How could it help us in local action? Week 7 (26th March) Session planning & facilitation skills. Week 8 (2nd Apr) Storytelling & public narrative (Part 1: Story of Self). Tools for storytelling that supports local action. Week 9 (9th April) Storytelling & public narrative (Part 2: Story of Us). Week 10 (16th Apr) Reflections: What have we learned and how will we use it?

RSVP NOW:

bit.ly/leaderstraining2024

SCAN HERE Find out more: wewalworth.org.uk

PUBLIC NOTICES 25

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (AVONMOUTH STREET, BURRELL STREET, DATE STREET, HOLYROOD STREET, MARMONT ROAD, THE CUT, CRYSTAL PALACE PARADE)

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (LYNTON ROAD, DEAL PORTERS WAY) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC/CYCLE LANE CLOSURE 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable various works to be carried out, it made, an order, the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload at any time in: (a) Avonmouth Street, between Newington Causeway and No’s 6 Avonmouth Street (b) Burrell Street, between Chancel Street and it’s blocked end (c) Date Street, between No’s 26 (d) Holyrood Street, between Shand Street and Magdalen Street (e) Marmont Road, between No’s 93 and Hardcastle House (f) The Cut, between between No’s 39a (g) Crystal Palace Parade, cycle lane between Westwood Hill and Old Cople Lane

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable works by Thames Water, it intends, to make, an order, the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload at any time in:

(a) Lynton Road, between Camilla Road and Alma Grove. (b) Deal Porters Way, between Surrey Quays Road and Canada Water Dock

The alternative routes for affected traffic will be indicated by the signs displayed

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

The alternative route for affected traffic will be s indicated by the signs displayed

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

The works will be in operation between (a) 16 February 2024 – 25th July 2024 and will be carried out in phases (b) 19th February -10th June

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

The works will be in operation for (2a) 12th – 23rd February (2b) 14th – 15th February (2c) 12th – 15th February (2d) 15th – 16th February (2e) 12th February – 2nd March (2f) 5th – 8th February (2g) 12th – 17th February

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

Dated this 1st February 2024 Ian Law Traffic Manager London Borough of Southwark Network Management Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: BER89-LYNT583-01 LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (AMELIA STREET, ASHBOURNE GROVE, CONSORT ROAD, CREDON ROAD, EMERSON STREET, MARINE STREET, SCOTT LIDGETT CRESCENT, SHARRATT STREET, AVONMOUTH STREET) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC)

Notice of Application to apply for a Premises Licence made under the Licensing Act 2003

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable various works to be carried out, it intends, to make, an order, the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload at any time in:

Please take notice that I, Ervin Karaj Have made application to the London Borough Of Merton to apply for a Premises Licence in respect of: Aimer, 1 Gladstone Road, Wimbledon SW19 1QU For the sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises. The provision of Late Night Refreshment for consumption on and off the premises, including delivery. 1100hrs–2300hrs Mon to Thu, 1100hrs–0000hrs Fri/Sat, 1100hrs-2200hrs Sun.

(a) Amelia Street, at bridge, located between Crampton Street and Robert Dashwood Way (b) Ashbourne Grove, at it’s junction with Lordship Lane (c) Consort Road, between Copeland Road and No’s 39 (d) Credon Road, between Ryder Drive and Verney Road (e) Emerson Street, between Park Street and Sumner Street (f) Marine Street, between Rouel Road and Old Jamaica Road (g) Scott Lidgett Crescent, between Janeway Street and Bevington Street (h) Sharratt Street, at it’s junction with Ilderton Road (i) Avonmouth Street, between No’s 6

A register of all applications made with the London Borough Of Merton is maintained by: LICENSING SECTION, LONDON BOROUGH OF MERTON, 2ND FLOOR, CIVIC CENTRE, LONDON ROAD, MORDEN, SURREY, SM4 5DX A record of this application may be inspected by appointment at Merton Civic Centre. Please email licensing@merton.gov.uk or telephone 020 8545 3969. It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Section at the office or email address above and be received by the Merton’s Licensing Section within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below.

The alternative routes for affected traffic will be indicated by the signs displayed

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

Note: It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine.

Date application given to the Council: 23rd January 2024

The works will be in operation for (2a) 22nd – 23rd February (2b) 19th February – 9th March (2c) 21st – 22nd February (2d) 19th February (2e) 17th – 18th February (2f)) 17th February – 22nd April (2g) 21st February – 25th April (2h) 19th February – 1st March (2i) 19th – 23rd February

Notice of application for a Premises Licence

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

Notice is hereby given that Mauritius Restaurant and Bar Ltd has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at Mauritius Restaurant and Bar, Unit M10/M11 Broadway Market, 29 Tooting High Street, London, SW17 0SP for

Dated this 1st February 2024

Live/Recorded Music Fri & Sat 1900-0000. Late Night Refreshment – Mon to Sun 23:00-0000. Supply of Alcohol Mon to Sun 1000-0000 Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 26th February 2024 stating the grounds for making said representation to: Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 5DX or by email: licensing@merton.gov.uk The record of this application may be inspected Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays) by prior appointment at the offices of Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden,Surrey, SM4 5DX between the hours of 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Information on all new and variation applications received by the Licensing Authority can be viewed on the Council’s website www.wandsworth.gov.uk It is an offence, under section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003, to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in or in connection with an application, punishable upon conviction by an unlimited fine.

Ian Law Traffic Manager London Borough of Southwark Network Management Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) LBSCR13337 (2b) SA2512622 (2c) LBSCR13335 (2d) SA-732045 (2e) LBSCR13321 (2f) BER4-MAST72-01 (2g) BER2-SLCR210-01 (2h) SEC50/SHARRATTST (2i) W118399542-00120

Our weekly deadline is 5pm every Tuesday

26 PUBLIC NOTICES LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK TOWN & COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 (as amended) PLANNING (LISTED BUILDINGS AND CONSERVATION AREAS) ACT 1990 (as amended) The planning applications listed below can be viewed on the planning register at https://planning.southwark.gov.uk/online-applications/ You can use facilities at your local library or 'My Southwark Service Points' to access the website. How to comment on this application: You should submit your comments via the above link. Comments received will be made available for public viewing on the website. All personal information will be removed except your postal address. Online comments submitted without an email address will not be acknowledged and those marked 'confidential' will not be considered. Written comments can be submitted to; Southwark Council, Chief executive's department, Planning division, Development Management, PO Box 64529, London SE1 5LX. Reason for publicity. The applications are advertised for the reasons identified by the following codes: AFFECT - development affecting character or appearance of a nearby conservation area; OR development affecting setting of a nearby listed building(s); DEP - departure from the development plan; EIA - environmental impact assessment (these applications are accompanied by an environmental statement a copy of which may be obtained from the Council - there will be a charge for the copy); MAJ - major planning application; STDCA - development within a conservation area; STDLB - works to or within the site of a listed building;

ANCHOR TAP 20A HORSELYDOWN LANE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 2LN (Ref: 24/AP/0030) Reinstate the original double doors to the corner of the building, bringing the building back to its original layout. Doors, frame and fanlight all to be new polished hardwood to match the existing (Within: Tower Bridge CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Eleanor Heagney 020 7525 5403) ANCHOR TAP 20A HORSELYDOWN LANE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 2LN (Ref: 24/AP/0031) Listed Building Consent: To reinstate the original double doors to the corner of the building, bringing the building back to its original layout. Doors, frame and fanlight all to be new polished hardwood to match the existing. (Within: Tower Bridge CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Eleanor Heagney 020 7525 5403) 40 CAMBERWELL GROVE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE5 8RE (Ref: 24/AP/0087) 1. Windows: A scheme of repair and refurbishment is underway for all windows. Consent is sought for installation of: -modern aluminium secondary glazing with opening mechanism for rear elevation windows on ground, first and second floors, and front elevation windows on the second floor. None of these windows is original Georgian. - and for modern aluminium secondary glazing without opening mechanism for the first floor flank window. This window is original Georgian and has been painted shut since prior to our purchase of the house. - consent to secondary glaze 3 remaining windows is sought, using the same

materials, design and specification, in due course. Detailed plans not included. 2. Front door insulation: draught proofing work and fully removable secondary glazing to fan light above. (work already completed as part of the repair and refurbishment scheme - this is the only work started in advance of consent being obtained). 3. Basement Conservatory: Replacement of existing wooden French doors in rear basement extension with slimline aluminium French doors and windows. 4. Rear Ground Floor Entrance: Replacement of existing wooden French doors and windows above with slimline aluminium french doors and windows. (Within: Camberwell Grove Conservation Area CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Eleanor Heagney 020 7525 5403) 11 ELM GROVE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 5DB( Ref: 23/AP/3406) Construction of a 2 storey rear extension with the addition of a rear dormer extension to the property. (Within: Holly Grove CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Agneta Kabele 07548097486) BRAMAH HOUSE 65 - 71 BERMONDSEY STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK (Ref: 24/AP/0180) Display of new fascia signage and externally illuminated hanging sign (Within: Bermondsey Street CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Michèle Sterry 020 7525 5453) BRAMAH HOUSE 65 - 71 BERMONDSEY STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK (Ref: 24/AP/0179) Installation of a new rear ground floor door (Within: Bermondsey Street CA) Reason(s) for

publicity: STDCA (Contact: Michèle Sterry 020 7525 5453) 2 BARKHAM TERRACE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 7PS (Ref: 24/AP/0150) Change of Use from C3 to SG sui generis to allow residential short term lets. (Within: West Square CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Michèle Sterry 020 7525 5453)

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable water mains replacement works to be carried out by Thames Water, it intends to make an order, the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

The works will be in operation between (a) the 12th of February to the 20th of March 2024 (b) the 12th of February to the 26th of April 2024.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

Dated this 1st of February 2024 Ian Law Traffic Manager, London Borough of Southwark, Network Management Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street, PO Box 64529, London, SE1 5LX Ref: (a) 6740 (b) 6741

STEPHEN PLATTS Director of Planning and Growth

1 ORIENT STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE11 4SR (Ref: 24/AP/0198) Reconstruction of existing lower ground floor rear extension; minor reconfiguration of lower ground floor layout; lowering of lower ground floor at rear of house. (Within: West Square CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Michèle Sterry 020 7525 5453) 15A CONSORT ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 2PH (Ref: 24/AP/0172) Replacement of the existing sliding door on the east elevation with a (4-panel) double-glazed steel framed double-leaf hinged door with 2 fixed side screens. Replacement of the existing sash windows on the north elevation with doubleglazed steel framed top-hung casement windows. Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Sandy Ng 020 7525 5000) 127-129 GREAT SUFFOLK STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 (Ref: 23/AP/3293) Installation of plant and extraction system on roof. (Within: Liberty of the Mint CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Sean Gomes 020 7525 0666) Dated: 30 Jan 2024 - comments to be received

Notice of Application for a Premises Licence made under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (FARNCOMBE STREET, LINSEY STREET)

within 21 days of this date.

Please take notice that I Chi Shing Tang Have made application to Southwark Council for a new Premises Licence in respect of Chi Chinese Restaurant, 71 Lordship Lane, London, SE22 8EP The relevant licensable activities and proposed times to be carried on, or on from the premises are Days

Start time

Finish time

The retail sale of alcohol:

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A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also available on our website at http://app.southwark.gov.uk/licensing/licenseregister.asp It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above (or by email via licensing@southwark.gov.uk) and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below. Note: It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale. Date of application: 24th January 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICES 27 Transport for London Public Notice

Transport for London Public Notice

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984

THE A2 GLA ROAD (OLD KENT ROAD, LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2024

THE A3200 GLA ROAD (SOUTHWARK STREET, LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2024

1. Transport for London having consulted with the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that it has made the above named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specied in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.

1. Transport for London hereby gives notice that it intends to make the above named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specied in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.

2.The purpose of the order is to allow electrical connection works to be undertaken on the A2 Old Kent Road.

2. The purpose of the order is to enable repair works to frames and covers in the carriage way to be undertaken on the A200 Southwark Street.

3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle including cyclists from:

3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle except cycles from entering or proceeding in a westerly direction on Southwark Street between its junctions with Blackfriars Road and Burrell Street.

(1)turning right from Old Kent Road into Peckham Park Road; (2) proceed in a southerly direction on Peckham Park Road from its junctions with Old Kent Road and Green Hundred Road, local access will be maintained. The Order will be effective between 08:00 AM on the 10th February 2024 and 6:00 PM on the 25th February 2024 or when the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. The prohibition will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs. 4. The prohibition will not apply in respect of: (1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes. (2)anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by Transport for London. 5. At such times as the prohibitions are in force an alternative route will be indicated by trafc signs via Old Kent Road, New Cross Road, Amersham Road, Parkeld Road, Lewisham Way, New Cross Road, Queens Road, Peckham High Street, Buller Close to normal route of travel. For cyclists Old Kent Road, Commercial Way, Bird in Bush Road, Green Hundred Road to normal route of travel.

The Order will be effective between 10:00 PM on the 15th February 2024 and 5:00 AM on the 16th February 2024 or when the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. The prohibition will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs. 4. The prohibition will not apply in respect of: (1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes.

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(2) anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by Transport for London. 5. At such times as the prohibitions are in force an alternative route will be indicated by trafc signs via Blackfriars Road, Borough Road, Borough High Street to normal route of travel. Dated this 1st day of February 2024 Claire Wright Co-ordination and Permitting Area Manager Transport for London Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ

Dated this 1st day of February 2024

Our weekly deadline is 5pm every Tuesday

Claire Wright Co-ordination and Permitting Area Manager Transport for London Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ

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SPORT 29

Freddie Haggerty earns spectacular ONE debut victory Fisher lead By John Kelly FreddIe haGGerTY made a spectacular one Championship debut last weekend - and then turned his thoughts back to his college work on monday.

Haggerty, 19, had already dropped his Thai opponent Dankalong Sor Dechapan once at the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok before he fulfilled his prediction and finished it in the second round. Team Underground fighter Haggerty also bagged a £7,750 bonus for the knockout in his first contest with one of the biggest multi-disciplinary combat sports organisations in the world.

anoTher Sell-ouT Champion Hill saw dulwich Hamlet keep their play-off hopes alive with a 3-1 win against Haringey Borough last weekend.

Hakan Hayrettin’s side flew out of the traps in front of a 3,334 attendance in East Dulwich as Luke Wanadio’s penalty and Manny Parry’s goal had the hosts 2-0 up after eleven minutes. Mohammed Kahdum pulled a goal back on 64 minutes but Wanadio scored his second in the last minute to seal the points. Dulwich were twelfth in the Isthmian League Premier Division table, eight points off the play-offs, ahead of their midweek game. “Let’s give credit to Haringey, we didn’t have a game last week, it was called off and we got to see them play,” Hayrettin said. “I said to the boys during the week, good team, hardworking team, sometimes they play off the cuff, they can cause anyone a problem. They stated better than Folkestone and finished better than Folkestone so I knew we were going to be in for a tough game. “We started fantastically quick, bright, alert and for the first 20 minutes I don’t think we’ve played better. We deserved to be two [goals up] and it should have been three, really, he’s given a disallowed goal that wasn’t a disallowed goal. “But then they’ve got nothing to lose and let’s be honest they gave us a good run for our money in the second half. Sometimes good teams have to find a way of winning and that’s what we did, we made the substitutions and we got the third goal.

hamleT Thrill packed hill

Dulwich hanging in as play-off race hots up “Good teams have got to find a way and we’re doing that.” Hayrettin reckoned the packed ground was one big factor behind the hosts’ rapid start. He said: “If you look at our goals for we’re probably one of the highest

Gallant Ryder stopped by fierce Mexican whirlwind By John Kelly

John rYder was stopped by mexican Jaime munguia in the ninth round of their WBC silver super-middleweight fight in Phoenix, arizona last weekend.

Unbeaten Munguia, who has now moved to 43-0, had Ryder down in the second and fourth rounds before dropping him twice in the ninth before the Islington fighter’s corner stopped the bout. Fisher ABC bravery award recipient Ryder, 35, fought gallantly against his 27-year-old opponent after those

started to come. But that’s always good, it shows you want it so much, that you’re not here just to fight, you actually really want to win. “I’m here to work my way up to where I belong. “I felt strong in there, I looked strong as well. For now I’m staying at strawweight, working my way up. I’m not in a rush, I want those belts and then I’ll come up I’ve got college on Monday, it’s crazy! “It’s crazy, it is. It’s hard work, but I’m a hard-working person. I like to push myself, so training and going to work in college is proper pushing, but I enjoy it. “The first knockdown was crazy, I think I caught him with an elbow, that was a rush!

early knockdowns and grew into the fight. But Munguia regained full control and he had Ryder on the canvas again with a big right early in the ninth. Seconds later Ryder was down after a left to the body. That prompted trainer Tony Sims to ready the towel in the corner, and they decided to end it after another flurry from Munguia had Ryder on the ropes. Munguia now wants a fight with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, whom Ryder took the distance before losing on points last year.

tributes to former star

I know it’s bad to say, but seeing him on the floor there I was like, ‘I can’t believe what I’ve just done’. Seeing him get up was a bit like, ‘woah, I thought I hit him hard’. “He got up, fair play to him, but the second round I caught him with a straight right hand and when I felt it connect I knew, I knew he wasn’t getting back up.” Haggerty looked ahead to potential opponents. He said: “I’ve seen Joseph Lasiri is in this weight class, my brother fought him before. They had a good fight. But I’m not in a rush, honestly, but Joseph Lasiri, I’d love to fight him eventually, work my way up to fight him. I know he’s number one contender.”

By John Kelly FiSHer are mourning the loss of their former player lenny Piper, who passed away last weekend at the age of 46 after a long illness.

By John Kelly

After the knockout, Freddie’s brother, trainer and two-sport world-champion Jonathan rang into the ring and lifted his younger sibling in triumph. “I’d been saying it all week, someone videoed me asking what round and I did say round two,” Freddie said. “He was strong, very strong, he was the perfect opponent for me to start off in ONE. I’m not here to just pad my record and work my way round - I go through everyone straight. “I showed what I’m capable of, that I’m not just here to be a contender. I’m powerful, I’m dangerous. “I wasn’t really nervous until I got to the stadium. In the back room the nerves

Danny Mills wins a header

teams for scoring. We can score at any time, sometimes it’s later on, sometimes it’s the middle of the game. With starting quick, the boys have really been so impressed with the support that they really want to show them what they are capable of doing.

“The support again was unbelievable, as it is every week at Champion Hill.” The Hamlet were in action at home against Wingate & Finchley in midweek. Hayrettin’s side travel to Margate this Saturday for a 3pm kick-off.

By John Kelly

Kongo said: “Him being a hothead how he is, he ended up pushing me. It could have been an altercation but security’s there. “I’m excited now. The fight is here. This is what we want, this is what the supporters are asking and we’re going to give it to them. It’s a good one. “Now I believe he’s been backed into a corner, he can’t go nowhere now. He’s got to fight the likes of me or any of the top 10 in the UK now. “It’s only right for him to fight me because we’ve built up a rapport now.” There is sure to be plenty of jibes back and forth before the fight, which is expected to take place in March.

Camberwell-born Piper made 132 appearances for Fisher Athletic. He started his career at Wimbledon before playing for Gillingham and then moving into non-league with Welling United, St Albans City and Farnborough Town. Piper joined Fisher Athletic from Dagenham and Redbridge in March 2004 after a loan at Margate. He had a caretaker spell in charge in 2005 before signing for Beckenham Town in 2007. Tributes poured in on social media from his former clubs and their supporters. Fisher said: “We are saddened to learn that our former player, Lenny Piper, passed away this morning at the age of 46 after a long illness. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Lenny’s family and friends.” “Everyone at the club is saddened to learn that former player, Lenny Piper, has sadly passed away,” Gillingham said. “Our thoughts and condolences are with Lenny’s friends, family and loved ones at this very difficult time.” Posts on X from fans of the clubs he played for showed the high regard he was held in. One wrote: “Very few players reach that iconic level of embodying the true spirit of a side. Lenny Piper did. We’ve got so many wonderful memories, honoured to have watched him at the peak of his powers. A wizard on the field and a genuinely nice bloke, taken way too soon.” Another said: “Very sad to hear that Lenny Piper has passed away aged just 46. A talented youngster at Wimbledon who played for the Dons in our 1995 Intertoto Cup campaign.”

Lenny Piper

Kongo spat set to be settled in ring ChrIS KonGo has agreed a deal to fight nemesis Florian Marku in a welterweight clash.

It will be Bermondsey fighter Kongo’s first bout since January 2023 when he lost a majority decision to Nottingham’s Ekow Essuman in a British, European and Commonwealth title clash at the Manchester Arena, his second professional defeat in sixteen contests. ‘2Slick’ Kongo, 31, and Albanian Marku, also 31 and with a professional record of thirteen wins and one draw, clashed at a press conference last August.

Marku said: “He’s going to regret it. He’s going to regret it for sure that he chose to fight me. “His wish came true. I know that he will be training too much for this fight because that is his most important fight of his life til now. “But I have always been training as if it is the most important fight of my life and when we’re in the ring he will understand that.” BOXXER promoter Ben Shalom added that for Kongo it is “a chance to really bounce back in a big way, especially after what happened with Ekow Essuman. He should have won that fight, I think. “It’s a must-win for both.”

30 SPORT By John Kelly MaurICIo PoCheTTIno said he was going to “thank” and “show my respect” to Jurgen Klopp as he revealed the Liverpool manager was the first person to contact him after his sacking by Tottenham Hotspur.

Marti Cifuentes

poch: Jur gonna be missed Blues boss pays tribute to departing rival round. Alfie Gilchrist, 20, made his second start for Chelsea, both in the FA Cup, at right-back. Levi Colwill was a late absentee after picking up a knock but Pochettino was hoping it wasn’t serious. Pochettino was pleased with Gilchrist.

“All the young ones need time to be calm and relaxed and not spend so much energy thinking on the game. He was really good. Good game from him, he is going to grow. “I think it’s important for his career. He needs to compete with different players in his position. We are giving him the

opportunity. It’s important for academy players to have the opportunity to play and show they can cope for playing for Chelsea. We will see if he can reach the level we expect. We are so happy in the way that he is producing.” Go to southlondon.co.uk for the reaction after the Anfield clash.

Paal earns point - but boss unhappy By John Kelly queenS ParK rangers boss martin Cifuentes said his side took a “step in the right direction” despite being unhappy with their performance after Kenneth Paal scored a 95th-minute equaliser against huddersfield Town at St Paul’s last Sunday.

He said: “Really good. It’s one of the most difficult things to manage the stress because he knew he was not going to play and then he was going to play. Sometimes with the young guys, you give the starting XI and [they] sometimes think too much and the stress can affect [them].

Chelsea manager Pochettino and Klopp reengaged in battle this week when the Blues travelled to Anfield in their Premier League game on Wednesday night. Pochettino was axed as Spurs manager in 2019 after just over five years in charge, and six months after leading them to the Champions League final, where they lost 2-0 to Klopp’s Reds. Klopp, 56, made the shock announcement last Friday that he would be stepping down at the end of the season after almost nine years in charge at Anfield. Pochettino was asked about Klopp after the Blues’ 0-0 draw against Aston Villa in the fourth round of the FA Cup at Stamford Bridge last weekend. “I was shocked because today I was working a little bit before the game and I saw the news,” Pochettino said. “Really sad because already we miss him. And then because when we were sacked from Tottenham, the first message I received was from him. That is not the case, I didn’t send him a message but I’m going to have the opportunity on Wednesday to thank him and show my respect. “I think the job he was doing at Liverpool is amazing. We are going to miss him but he deserves his wishes, to rest a little bit and go away. Yes, I think sad news for football. He’s a great character, great man, great coach. For sure, English football is going to miss him and Liverpool, of course. ‘When he arrived his first game was against us [Tottenham] at White Hart Lane. October 2015, I think we played, and it was 0-0. The legacy is massive. His charisma, his capacity to manage, to create with an amazing club like Liverpool, their own philosophy and history is there. “I need to congratulate him, to everyone that is involved, his coaching staff. They fully deserve the prize they are going to receive from here until the end of the season.” Chelsea and Unai Emery’s Villa have to do it all over again next Wednesday (February 7) for the right to host Leeds United or Plymouth Argyle in the fifth

Then-Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino, right, and Jurgen Klopp share a joke

Jack Rudoni appeared to have earned the Terriers all three points in the relegation scrap when he put Darren Moore’s visitors ahead in the 86th minute. But Paal finished a cross from Ilias Chair to the net as the R’s grabbed a crucial point.

QPR are 22nd in the Championship table, three points behind Huddersfield in 21st after 29 games. “Not a good performance and it was generally a poor game. I’m not very pleased with our performance,” Cifuentes said. “Having said that, we knew there would be tension in this game because it was so important to both sides, so you could see we couldn’t get the grip on the game that we would have liked. “Then we had to accept that the picture of the game was a lot of fight, a lot of duels and aerial situations. “So I want to praise the guys, because after conceding a goal in that minute and having the courage and

personality to chase the draw, and then to keep pushing to try to get the victory, shows that even when we’re not having our best performance the team is competing well. “To be able, on a day like today, when many things didn’t go well, to pick up a point, I think is a step to the next level and in the right direction. “The first thing is to be competitive and the second is that, even on the bad days, you can pick up points. Hopefully we can maintain that.” Meanwhile, QPR confirmed the signing of Swiss striker Michael Frey on a permanent deal from Belgian side Royal Antwerp before the game. Frey, 29, has also played in the top

flights in France. Switzerland, Turkey and Germany. "He can be decisive in the final third, he has high energy which fits into how we want to play because he can help us to press high up the pitch, and he is a clever player too," Cifuentes said. Frey was at Loftus Road on Sunday and was introduced to supporters. Frey said: ”QPR is a big club with a big history, a beautiful stadium and top fans. To play in the UK for Swiss players is a big thing, so I was very happy when I heard for the first time about QPR's interest.” QPR travel to Blackburn Rovers in the league this Saturday.

SPORT 31

Stay or Ro?

Big things are expected of 18-year-old attacker Romain Esse

Millwall boss hopeful Lions can keep hold of young star Romain Esse after speculation By Kiro Evans JOE EDWARDS said he understands the speculation surrounding Romain Esse but is confident he will still be a Millwall player by the end of the transfer window.

Reports have linked both Hull City and Burnley with a move for the 18-year-old attacker, who came through Millwall’s youth set-up. There are high hopes for his potential and he has also caught the eye playing for England under-19s. Last week the questions around the

youngster was whether or not his development would be aided by a loan deal away from Millwall but now, in the final days of this window, the Lions could have a fight on their hands to not lose the teenager permanently. Esse has had limited game time in recent months but did enjoy 45 minutes in last Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Preston North End after Ryan Longman went off at half-time with a shoulder problem. Asked about the speculation, Lions boss Edwards told NewsAtDen: “I gather there’s been some sort of interest which to me is totally understandable when

you’re talking about a young England international playing at Championship level and probably not getting the ideal amount of game time he would have liked in recent weeks and months, albeit he came on [against Preston] on Saturday and did well, the most amount of minutes he’s gotten for a while. “I gather why there would be speculation because that’s completely normal but from my point of view, there’s nothing I’ve had to make decisions on or give much thought of. As far as I’m concerned, Romain’s here training with us every day and he’s a player that certainly for the

long-term I want to be part of [the team] and I want to keep working with.” When Edwards was asked if he was confident of Esse still being a Millwall player on Friday morning, once the window has closed, he said: “Yeah, yeah I am.” Millwall play one of the teams linked to Esse on Saturday when they take a trip to Liam Rosenior’s Hull. Burnley, the other team who are reportedly interested in the young star, had previously made an unsuccessful attempt to land midfielder Zian Flemming last summer.

parried Sven Botman's header. Fulham boss Marco Silva felt the first goal shouldn’t have stood because of the handball. While the ball did strike the Magpies midfielder’s arm, it did appear accidental and goals can only be disallowed in that instance, if it goes to the video assistant referee, if the ball hits the arm of the scorer. There was also some question the a goal-kick rather than a corner should have been given before the second. It was Fulham’s second knockout exit in three days after their semifinal defeat to Liverpool in the EFL Cup. “It’s a frustrating one,” Ream said on Fulham TV. “We gave up two set-

pieces. I’d argue that the second one shouldn’t even have been a corner. Neither here nor there at that point. “First half, we were all over them, really. It was just a shame that, as the manager says, we got the details wrong on two set-pieces and then concede. To have it be from a static situation where you are prepared, you are set up, you’re all in position and still to concede, it hurts a little more.” Ream revealed the players had discussed the legitimacy of the first goal. “That was touched upon in the dressing room,” Ream said. “The argument from some was that the referee saw the handball in the first

place so why didn’t he blow it? Again, by the letter of the law the person who handballs it doesn’t score, so they check it and the goal stands. Again, you concede just before halftime, it’s a tough one to take. “It seems so obvious but goals change games. If one of those chances in the first half – Rodrigo’s [Muniz] that the keeper makes a fingertip [save] - if that goes in, if there’s not an offside call and Willian’s stands, the game changes. Goals change games. They got the first one. We huffed and puffed and didn’t quite do enough to put the ball in the net.” Fulham travel to Burnley in the league this Saturday.

No excuses for Ream after exit By John Kelly

TIM REAM didn’t make any excuses for Fulham’s 2-0 defeat against Newcastle United in the fourth round of the FA Cup at Craven Cottage last weekend as he felt the Cottagers only had themselves to blame after conceding twice from corners.

Sean Longstaff fired in the opener in the 39th minute after Fulham couldn’t clear Kieran Trippier’s delivery and the ball had come off the arm of Bruno Guimeraes. The goal was given after a VAR check. Dan Burn scored the second against his former club in the 61st minute after goalkeeper Marek Rodak

Longman waits on shoulder prognosis

By Kiro Evans

RYAN LONGMAN is set to see a specialist to assess his shoulder injury.

The 23-year-old started last Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Preston North End but dislocated his shoulder in the first half and was taken off at halftime. Longman would not have been available to play against Hull on Saturday in any case as he is on loan from the Tigers but Millwall will be hoping to get him back soon. Millwall boss Joe Edwards said: “Ryan did dislocate his shoulder. We’re waiting to see the specialist who’s away at the moment which slows that process down. But that isn’t an issue for us because Ryan’s unable to play against Hull anyway. “By the start of next week, Ryan will see the specialist to get the full extent on his shoulder but, on the first viewings of it, we’re anticipating it’s quite similar to Aidomo [Emakhu’s] one in that it will probably be a few weeks as opposed to anything too serious or long-term, so fingers crossed.” Millwall have had better news regarding Tom Bradshaw who has made steady progress from a hamstring injury that has seen him miss the last three games. Edwards said: “It’s the opposite with Tom. He trained with the team [on Monday] and [Tuesday] is our big working day and he trains the full session today. So Tom’s made a good comeback in terms of his return time to training and, all being well, he’ll be available for selection this weekend.”

Ravens suffer shock defeat By John Kelly PROMOTION HOPEFULS Bromley suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to relegationthreatened AFC Fylde at Mill Farm last weekend.

Danny Ormerod scored the only goal of the game in the eleventh minute. Corey Whitely had a first-half goal for the Ravens ruled out for handball before the hosts went close to a second as Ormerod’s effort hit the post. Andy Woodman’s side look set for the play-off semi-finals barring any drama in the final third of the season. They sit second, sixteen points behind leaders Chesterfield and twelve points ahead of fourthplace Altrincham. Bromley host twelfth-place Hartlepool United in the league on Saturday.

Community matters

Michael Olise fires home the winner

STAY OR RO

INSIDE

Sport Southwark S outhLondonWeekly. Southwark

page 31

double acT lighT up palace

Eze and Olise ease pressure on boss By John Kelly miCHaeL oLiSe made a spectacular return to action with the winning goal after providing two assists as Crystal Palace twice came from behind to beat Sheffield united 3-2 in a riveting Premier league clash at Selhurst Park on Tuesday night.

The Blades increased the pressure on Eagles boss Roy Hodgson as they took the lead after 20 seconds when Ben Brereton Diaz curled past goalkeeper Dean Henderson. Eberechi Eze levelled on seventeen minutes but Chris Wilder’s side were back in front three minutes later when

James McAtee’s shot deflected in. Eze made it 2-2 in the 27th minute when he fired into the top corner from the edge of the box. Olise scored an outstanding winner in the 67th minute with a curling shot from the edge of the D that went in off the post. It wasn’t all cheer for the home side, however, as both Palace’s star attackers were substituted late on after picking up knocks. Eze was pleased with the home side’s resilience in twice fighting back. “I think we started quite slow, to be honest, and they looked sharp,” Eze said. “I feel like whenever you give a team a chance or you're not up for it at the

start, you're always going to give away chances. “But the boys worked hard, we did what we wanted to do, we got three points, and that's the main thing. “I don't know [the reasons for falling behind] but as I said, we've got the ability and the creativity in the team to get chances and score goals, so we've done well today.” Olise has provided seven assists for Eze since the start of last season. Eze added: “As I've said all the time, I enjoy playing with him because he's a top player, but there's loads of other players in the team who work so hard and create space for us to do our thing, so it's the type

of performance we want to be putting in. “I know whenever Michael's got the ball, he's looking for that type of pass, so I just knew I had to put myself in and got a good foot on it, I guess. “The second one, again, always trying to create space on the edge of the box, and I know that if I get a chance I’m going to take it.” Palace moved six points above the relegation zone and are away at Brighton & Hove Albion in their derby on Saturday. “I feel like there's lots to learn from that,” Eze said. “We can't concede goals like that, especially at home, but that should give us confidence because we know we can create chances.”

Fulham suffer injury blows in Toffees stalemate By John Kelly FulhaM loST raul Jimenez and issa diop to injuries in their 0-0 draw against everton at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night.

In a game with 46 attempts on goal - 25 for Fulham - neither side

managed to find a breakthrough as the Cottagers moved up to twelfth and the Toffees slipped into the relegation zone "Both came off with some hamstring issues there,” Fulham boss Marco Silva said. "Let's see how they are going to be

in the next hours. They are going to be assessed by the medical department and let's see how they're going to be. "When you have some issues in the hamstring, it's not a good sign. When you play three games in seven days, such intense games and all that stuff, you have always a risk there.

"In some moments it's possible for us to rotate, but it's not been easy to rotate some players, too, and we have this type of risk that we have to take." Fulham were trying to sign Chelsea’s Armando Broja, 22, before Thursday’s transfer deadline but the Blues were demanding £50million for the striker.

Dons' Wembley dream is ended By John Kelly aFC WimBLedon paid for their “horrendous” start as their Wembley dream ended with a 3-1 defeat to Peterborough united in their eFl Trophy quarter-final at London road on Tuesday night.

Malik Mothersille opened the scoring in the second minute before Ephron Mason-Clark added a second two minutes later. Ryan McLean gave the Dons hope with a goal in the 89th minute but the Posh made sure of their semi-final place when Ricky-Jade Jones added their third five minutes into stoppage-time. The Dons also lost Joe Lewis to injury in the first half. It’s now full focus on the play-off chase in League Two for the Dons after their loss to Darren Ferguson’s League One high-flyers. “The start we made to the game has cost us any opportunity we had to go further in the competition,” boss Johnnie Jackson said. “It was a horrendous start, conceding two in the first five minutes – it’s not how you want to start any game let alone a quarter-final. The damage was done. We ended the game on top but it was too little too late. “We didn’t do all the things that we’re good at. We spoke about doing the right things two minutes before we started the game. About playing in the right areas, being compact, playing in their half, winning headers and winning duels. It took about half an hour for us to do any of that. We did it in the second half and we looked like a good team. That’s us when we’re at it like that. “We nearly pulled it out the bag in the end because we were doing all of that. We’re more than capable of it. It’s an opportunity missed. “That’s what I said to the lads at halftime, these games are opportunities to get in the team and stay in the team. You have to take them because there’s competition for places and there might be more further down the line. If you serve up what I saw in the first half, you could be out the team, you might not get back in it. “There’s a lot of football to play. We’ve got a great opportunity to do something as a group, I want them to use nights like tonight to kick us on.” THE RECYCLED PAPER CONTENT OF UK NEWSPAPERS IN 2014 WAS 83.5%