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LocaL shops back the government’s disposabLe vaping ban announcement
By Nadia Lincoln Local Democracy Reporter
Flashing neon signs advertising ‘VaPes heRe’, towering displays atop corner shop counters and stacks of the rainbow-coloured packaging adorning shop windows – this has become the norm for most high street. North End Road in Fulham is no different, with nearly 10 shops boasting their large displays along the stretch of road. However, just as quickly as the disposable vape storm came, it could be gone. The Government has announced that the sale of disposable vapes will be prohibited by next summer.
New legislation set to ban the sale of singleuse vapes from June 1, 2025, was presented in Parliament on Wednesday (October 23).
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has stated that businesses will have until that deadline to sell any remaining stock they hold before the ban comes into force.
Some of the prominent vape shops and off-licences in Fulham have told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) they agree with the government’s decision to ban disposable vapes. They say they see children using them locally and the discarded vapes littering the town’s streets.
Stood at the counter behind a display of colourful vapes, shop worker Parin Vyas, said he was concerned about how easy it seemed for under-18s to buy vapes. He agreed that the ban would be good for the younger generation.
“I see under 18s – 14 and 15 years old –having vapes even though they don’t know what’s the effect to them. In my shop it’s very strict, we are not selling any underage. They should stop [the sale of disposable vapes], to be honest, because the new generation is going too much on this.”
He said his off-licence shop, All in 1 Food & Wine, had already reduced the number of disposables they were buying and selling as they knew the Government had already spoken about their intention to bring in a vaping ban. He also said he had noticed issues with the single-use vapes littering the road before.
Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh
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criticised single-use vapes for being ‘extremely wasteful and blight our towns and cities’. She said the move from the Government would be an attempt to end the nation’s ‘throwaway culture’.
Javed Muhammad, who works in the Hair of the Dog off-licence, said he was not concerned that the ban would affect his shop’s sales as new alternatives, such as chargeable vapes, were becoming more popular. He said that, as the other products would be ‘long-life’, he hoped it would reduce the waste and cut down on littering from disposables.
Last year’s figures suggest that nearly five million single-use vapes were discarded or thrown into general waste every week in the UK, which marks an almost fourfold increase from the previous year. Studies also
LondonWeekly.
suggest that up to a quarter of 11-15-yearolds used a vape last year, with disposables being the most attractive choice.
Raj Patel, another shopkeeper working in Fulham, told the LDRS that he believed the ban would be a good step from the Government and could help clean up the high street and protect young people. He said: “There’s always something coming new like juice, the E-liquid ones, chargeable. There’s basically no effect [on the business]. I’m selling vapes, but I refuse many customers underage. I see so much vapes in the park, I see so many people smoking on the train around elderly people, kids. So the ban is a good thing.”
Many other specialist shops along the road were indifferent to the Government’s announcement, saying that they had
noticed customers were already moving to the bigger, chargeable vapes unprompted. They felt that the hole left on their shelves and counters could be quickly filled by alternatives before June 2025.
Another issue is the fire risk associated with vapes in general. Veolia, which collects bins across Hammersmith and Fulham, says vapes being thrown in household waste puts people at risk because, when crushed, the batteries can explode. Hammersmith and Fulham Council, partly to tackle this issue, has a policy that all vape retailers in the borough must offer recycling services to customers. Vape recycling bins have been placed at shops and libraries across the borough.
Hammersmith and Fulham Council was contacted for comment.
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©Nadia Lincoln
Many shops selling colourful vapes along North End Road said they were not concerned about the disposable ban, with some even praising it as a good idea.
Fulham shop worker Parin Vyas said the ban would be good for the younger generation to stop children using vapes.
Javed Muhammad, who works in an off licence currently selling disposable vapes, said he hoped the disposable vape ban would reduce waste
illustrator from deptford brings out his first book with famous royal historian
By Isabel Ramirez
a man from Deptford has illustrated a book about the history of nursery rhymes, written by a prestigious historian who influenced Netflix's The Crown.
Ben Coppin has been drawing since he was four and said he 'never wanted to do anything else'.
The 27-year-old has lived around the area all his life, moving from Deptford to Rotherhithe and now to Bermondsey. His dad owned a designer clothing shop called 'Revolver', originally based down the Blue then in Surrey Quays for about 13 years.
Ben said he had 'fallen on his feet' getting to work on the project, which brings to life an original book from 1919 by Claud Lovat Fraser.
Nursery Rhymes with Pictures by Claud Lovat Fraser includes around 80 wellknown rhymes, exploring their origins.
In Lovat Fraser's original, only part of it was printed in colour, as it wasn't possible to get full-colour books until the 1970s.
In the new version, released just a few weeks ago, Ben has revived Lovat Fraser's illustrations by adding colour and details which reflect the diversity of today's world.
The book is written by Robert Lacey, a British historian, known for his best-selling biographies including those of Henry Ford, Eileen Ford and Queen Elizabeth II. A royal expert, Lacey was the historical consultant on Netflix's 'The Crown'. He also interviewed and wrote the first-ever book
about Princess Diana.
Four years ago whilst writing his last book 'Battle of Brothers', about Prince William and Harry, he met Ben. Lacey needed an illustrator and was impressed by Ben's talent.
"Ben drew some beautiful cartoons for my last book," Lacey told us.
The 80-year-old author continued: "We became friends and his South London cheekiness made him the obvious artist to
illustrate these nursery rhymes."
"He’s got such a great sense of humour."
Lacey reveals how the idea for Nursery Rhymes with Pictures, now available in Waterstones, first came about. "I received a Christmas card from the Royal Academy of Arts, where they included one of these nursery rhymes accompanied by Lovat Fraser's original drawing - and I thought it was lovely."
Claud Lovat Fraser died at 31 years old,
in the mornings so they had to get their children to sleep."
The rhymes themselves explore children's fears and anxieties, introducing them to the realities of life in a fun way. "They also greatly help children with their reading," Lacey said.
as a result of his injuries in World War I. Lacey revealed he wrote this book to offer a well-deserved tribute to the late artist and honour his work.
He added: "Ben is a similar age to Lovat Fraser when he died, which makes it even more meaningful."
Nursery rhymes largely started getting popular at the start of the Industrial Revolution, which Lacey said was no coincidence. "People had to go to work
Commenting on their masterpiece, Ben assured: "It's more than just a children's book," adding parents will get a lot out of reading it too given the historical element.
Lacey said he hopes to work with Ben on his next project: "I can't say too much but it's another treasure revived from the past for the children of today."
Yesterday (Wednesday 30 October) at 1pm the pair were signing copies of their book at the Paper Cat bookshop in Herne Hill. The book is also available to buy at Waterstones for £20.
our
Doctor Foster Went to Gloucester’
© Claud Lovat Fraser / Ben Coppin
© Robert Lacey / Paper Argosies)
Robert Lacey and Ben Coppin
bus Lane on LoWer road that catches out thousands of drivers confirmed as a fake
eXcLuSive
By Isabel Ramirez
a BUs lane in Rotherhithe that had the highest number of traffic fines in southwark does not legally exist, meaning thousands of pounds in fines could be refunded.
Drivers received 4,478 fines worth over £500,000 last year, making it Southwark Council’s most lucrative bus lane.
The Labour-run authority has now been forced into an embarrassing u-turn, admitting that a Traffic Management Order for the bus lane does not even exist.
Local MP Neil Coyle described the situation as ‘absurd’ and pledged to help locals challenging the fines.
Cllr James McAsh, the council’s head of streets, said: “Due to an administrative oversight, we now realise that an order was not renewed in May, making Penalty Charge Notices since then invalid.”
The revelation came to light when local business owner, Mr Robinson, wanted to appeal a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) he received in December 2023.
"I found the road layout unusual," he told us, citing the bus lane at the junction with Culling Road.
After looking into it, he found that the road layout didn’t match the Traffic Management Order (TMO) - an order that says a bus lane exists.
In a shocking turn of events, it has emerged that no traffic order has been in place since May. As such, the bus lane has not legally existed since then.
Camberwell Road could get a second Sainsbury's store
By Isabel Ramirez
Plans haVe been submitted by sainsbury's for a store on Camberwell Road in Walworth, right next to another supermarket.
If the proposals are approved, it will be the second store on Camberwell Road.
The shop would replace the Carpetright, which is currently next door to a 24-hour Costless off-licence supermarket.
The last date to object to the proposals is 19 November.
Go to app.southwark.gov.uk/ premises/applied/884329 to view
The with-flow bus lane sign on Lower Road 'does not match' the road layout.
This means that any PCNs issued from this location after May were 'invalid' and the council will refund them.
An experimental traffic order had been in place since October 2022 but expired after just eighteen months.
The discoveries about the faulty bus lane were verified by a professional McKenzie friend (an individual who assists someone representing themselves in court) and Conservative councillor for Lothingland (Great Yarmouth), Ivan Murray-Smith.
Ivan, who helps people with appealing PCNs, was also concerned that the bus lane signage did not match the road layout.
The sign currently in place indicates a
'with-flow' bus lane which drivers could misinterpret to mean they can drive down it.
But because of the placement of the traffic island (on the right), the road is laid out so that only buses can use it.
As such, anyone driving in the lane is issued with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN), despite the misleading signage.
Cllr McAsh insisted the junction was “supported by clear signage”.
Last year, this Lower Road bus lane issued the most fines in Southwark, worth over £500,000.
As a result of this discovery, the council could be forced to refund thousands of pounds in fines to anyone charged after the TMO expired in May 2024.
Between July 2023 and July 2024, 3,021 PCNs were paid in some form (either in
Two people stabbed in broad daylight in Bermondsey
By Isabel Ramirez
a 25-year-Old man has been arrested following a stabbing yesterday afternoon in Bermondsey, which saw two injured.
Police were called at 15:07pm on Monday 28 October to reports of an assault in Bermondsey Spa Gardens.
Officers attended alongside London Ambulance Service and located one boy and one man with stab wounds. Their injuries are not believed to be
life-changing. A crime scene was in place for a short while yesterday and has since been lifted.
A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of affray and remains in custody.
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC and quote CAD4614 of 28 October.
You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
full or at a discounted amount).
Neil Coyle, MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark called the situation 'absurd.'
Mr Coyle, who has been a voice for residents on the Lower Road issue for some time, said: "The mishandling of Lower Road is shocking and sadly continues with council officers unable to confirm the legitimacy of fines imposed on the route for months or the potentially out-of-date Traffic Management Order.
"If people need help challenging fines they can get in touch but it is frankly absurd that the council is in this position.”
Cllr James McAsh, Cabinet Member for Clean Air, Streets and Waste at Southwark Council, said: “Improving the safety of Lower Road junction is essential for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike.
“The changes made to the junction were covered by temporary traffic orders supported by clear signage.
“Due to an administrative oversight, we now realise that an order was not renewed in May, making Penalty Charge Notices since then invalid.
“We have already begun cancelling the Penalty Charge Notices of those affected. Any refunds due will be issued automatically, so anyone affected does not need to contact the Council. The Traffic Management Order is being updated so that we can properly enforce these traffic restrictions, which are so important for keeping road users safe and buses flowing safely.”
Visit ftla.uk for free traffic legal advice, including how to appeal a PCN.
Minute's applause at Millwall game to honour lifelong fan
By Isabel Ramirez
a miNUte's applause is being held at next week's Millwall game for a lifelong fan who died of cancer nine years ago.
Tony Macklin was just 56 when he tragically passed away in 2015.
Born and raised in Bermondsey, the fishmonger and avid Lions supporter went to every Millwall game. To honour Tony's life, his family are planning a minute's applause at
the Millwall v
next Wednesday (6 November).
The day marks exactly nine years since they lost him.
Son, Jack Macklin, described his dad as 'bubbly, funny and caring.'
He left behind many people who loved him, including his two sons,
and
The tribute will be in the ninth minute of the game and will be led by his family.
Leeds match
Jack and Sam,
three grandkids Reggie, Dolly and Freya.
Tony Macklin died on November 6, 2015
Man rushed to hospital after 'stabbing' in Borough
By Herbie Russell
a man has been rushed to hospital after reports of a stabbing in Borough.
Emergency services called to Webber Street at 10.01pm on Sunday, October 20.
Paramedics treated a man at the scene before taking him to a major London trauma centre.
A Met Police spokesperson said:
"Police were called at around 22:00hrs on Sunday, 20 August, to a male stabbed in Webber Street, SE1.
"Officers attended along with ambulance colleagues. A man, aged in his 20s, was taken to hospital to suffering stab injuries.
"His condition has been assessed as
London Ambulance Service was called to Webber Street following reports of a stabbing.
not life-threatening or life-changing.
There has been no arrest."
A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We were called at 10.01pm yesterday (Sunday 20 October) to reports of a stabbing in Webber Street, SE1.
“We sent resources to the scene, including an ambulance crews, a paramedic in a fast response car and an incident response officer.
“The first of our crews arrived in less than two minutes.
“Our crews treated a man at the scene, before taking him a London major trauma centre as a priority.”
Any witnesses yet to speak with police are asked to call 101, quoting the ref 7144/20oct.
southWark's remembrance and armistice day services announced
By Herbie Russell
soUThwaRK’s oFFiCial
Remembrance sunday service will take place in Borough next month.
The National Service of Remembrance will be conducted at St Saviour’s War Memorial, Borough High Street, on Sunday, November 10.
The start time is 10.50am, ten minutes before the nationwide two minutes silence at 11am.
The service will be led by a clergyman of Southwark Cathedral, joined by other religious representatives of the district.
Guests are asked to assemble by 10.45am at the memorial. Following the service the Mayor of Southwark
has invited invites the public to light refreshment in The Bridge Tap, 32 Borough High Street.
There will also be the traditional Remembrance Service at West Lane War Memorial off Jamaica Road, at 10.45am on Sunday 10 November 2024.
The official borough service for Armistice Day will take place at West Lane War Memorial off Jamaica Road, at 10.45am, on Monday, November 11.
It will be led by Fr Mark Nicholls and other religious represenatives of the district.
Guests are asked to assemble by 10.45am and the service will be followed by light refreshments at Bosco Centre, 281 Jamaica Road.
By Herbie Russell
City OF london Police Firearms officers have been praised for giving vital CPR to a man who suffered a cardiac arrest on london Bridge. Emergency services were called last Monday week, 21 October, at around 11.20pm with reports that a man had collapsed on the bridge.
City of London Police Firearms officers were the first emergency vehicles on the scene. When they detected no pulse they started giving the man CPR.
The London Ambulance Service arrived and after a sustained and prolonged amount of CPR administered, a small pulse was located, and he was taken to hospital.
City of London Police Assistant Commissioner Paul Betts said: “The intervention of the six firearms officers was crucial and I commend them for their actions. The officers’ advanced medical training was vital in being able to secure a pulse and get the man to hospital.”
We have asked for an update on the man's condition.
By Herbie Russell
“in The past, people were carrying Tesco bags and meat pies. now they’re carrying £2,000 laptops.”
Phone-snatching has reached a crisis point in Southwark—now London’s thirdworst borough for phone thefts. Within Southwark, Rotherhithe and Bermondsey are targeted heavily.
Southwark News has already drilled into the data and listened to victims’ shocking accounts. The question remains: why is phone-snatching so prevalent in the north of Southwark, and what are the solutions?
'Rich picKiNGS'
One possible explanation is the changing demographics of Rotherhithe and Bermondsey. The evolving character of the area, starting in the 1980s, has been accelerated by British land’s £4 billion regeneration project in Rotherhithe and surrey Quays.
In partnership with Southwark Council, the Canada Water Masterplan will see the construction of 3,000 new homes and 2 million square feet of office space on the 53-acre site. If the numbers are hard to visualise, the 35-storey residential block being built is a towering illustration of the area’s future prospects.
Hundreds of flats have already gone up. Some apartments, like a three-bedroom flat on the new The Founding site, are being marketed at around £2 million. For some local residents, this explains the influx of phone-snatchers to the area.
One local resident said: “In the past, people were carrying Tesco bags and meat pies. Now they’re carrying £2,000 laptops. The thieves can get more money in one hit than they could all day robbing purses with £20 in them back in the 1980s.”
"This area is seen as rich pickings now," another resident said, noting the suited and booted commuters who pour out of Rotherhithe, Bermondsey and Canada Water stations everyday.
Indeed, since construction began on the Canada Water Masterplan in 2021, phone thefts across Rotherhithe, Bermondsey and Surrey Docks have generally increased. Between November 2020 and November 2022, there were 319 phone thefts in Rotherhithe, Bermondsey and Surrey Docks. In the 21 months since then, that number has risen to 502 - a 57 per cent increase.
Newcomers have been shocked by the extent of thefts. One person, who moved to the area around Canada Water in 2021, said: “It’s marketed as safe but it’s really not. Every evening I went to the local gym I would also see [phone-snatchers]." He and his partner have now moved to what they described as a "more gentrified" area in East London which they prefer. “I never got the sense that I could step outside of the home and feel safe," he said. "I always felt anxious and it’s traumatising to see other people be the victims of this.”
The DecLiNe of SeLf-poLiciNG coMMuNiTieS
many long-time residents of Rotherhithe and Bermondsey say a once self-policing community has disintegrated.
The argument goes that whereas once the working class communities living locally were tight-knit, and worked together to stop miscreant behaviour, they have been replaced by a more transient community with less knowledge of and therefore, less of a stake in, their local community. However, this is certainly not the area's first wave of regeneration. The London Docklands Development Corporation, set up by Margaret Thatcher’s government, aimed to transform depressed Thameside neighbourhoods—Tower Hamlets,
are WeaLthy neWcomers' vaLuabLes behind rotherhithe’s phone-snatching epidemic?
‘this area is seen as rich pickings noW’
Southwark, and what is now Canary Wharf—into prosperous communities. Why didn’t this result in a wave of crime?
First of all, it should be mentioned that the LDDC regeneration was subject to many of the same criticisms as the Canada Water Masterplan faces today. A 1984 Guardian article said young professionals were snapping up homes at the expense of local people. Local politicians, many of the hard-left ilk, were automatically skeptical about a housing project which came to rely on a mammoth £7.66 billion in private investment.
But ultimately, 5,500 new homes were built in Surrey Docks and 1,600 in Bermondsey Riverside. Older residents might recall long queues snaking from the makeshift council offices set up at Surrey Docks, full of people clutching rent books, each hoping to secure a prized plot on the regenerated land. Many of the families who moved in already had connections to the area and roots in the local docking industry. Entire communities, already tight-knit and, to an extent, self-policing, were transferred to brand-spanking new homes. However, this contrasts with the current wave of regeneration. We know that new flats are being marketed to buyers as farflung as Singapore. While 35 per cent of the homes will be affordable, and likely offered to people on Southwark’s housing waiting list, they will be pulled from areas all across Southwark.
The deterioration of these traditional community bonds could be impacting police’s ability to combat phonesnatching. According to Natasha Ennin, Cabinet Member for Community Safety at Southwark Council, people are often unlikely to report crimes to the police.
“What we want to see is more reporting from our residents… When people suffer in silence… that can be quite challenging,” she said. “What we want to do is see increased reporting via the channels that we have.”
'poLice aRe oBviouSLY NoT BoTheReD' local residents have often been scathing of the local safer neighbourhood policing teams (snTs), who are widely seen as having lost control of the situation.
One local resident said: “Police don’t seem to have any desire to work out where this [crime] is emanating from. Why don’t you set up a sting? It seems that the criminal intelligence in Rotherhithe is very poor… At the moment there is nothing but disdain for the SNTs.”
Another local claimed that much of the local community knew about a safehouse being used to store stolen phones near Redriff School for months before the police finally acted.
One prominent business owner on Rotherhithe Street, which is locally regarded a ‘rat run’ for phone thieves, said: “Nothing really gets done. If you try and call
the police now you can call 999 but you’re gonna get fobbed off.
“I stop a bobby on the street if I see one and I will say 'look, this happened the other day' but they’re just obviously not bothered. It is quite frustrating.”
With thousands of residents set to pour into the area as the Canada Water Masterplan progresses, they will need an equivalent police force to maintain law and order.
Southwark News asked British Land for an update on the police hub intended to replace Rotherhithe police station, which was closed in 2017. When the Canada Water Masterplan secured planning permission, British Land agreed to use “reasonable endeavours to deliver a Police Hub” subject to police approval. Marketing materials later reaffirmed the developer was “committed to… a space for a new police hub”.
In a statement shared last month, a British Land spokesperson said: “Regarding the permanent police hub, we remain in discussions with the Met Police.” Meanwhile, local police are currently operating from a set of temporary units installed on top of the Seven Islands Leisure Centre, the News understands.
In the meantime, locals will have to rely significantly on a private security firm to maintain the peace. A spokesperson for British Land said: “In line with other British Land campuses, security will be delivered
through a combination of customer service personnel, private security patrols, and CCTV monitoring." It was unable to provide more detail on the number of staff to be employed or when they would patrol the area.
The shortfall in police can be somewhat explained by the recruitment crisis, which is making it hard to fill SNTs. "By March 2025, there will be 310 police officers per 100,000 Londoners," Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley wrote this year.
"In March 2012, this was at 350 police officers. This position is projected to worsen and trend towards our lowest point of the last decade. This is being driven in part by inadequate funding and by low recruitment over recent years due to the rising cost of living in London relative to other parts of the UK, and other challenges."
Police bosses also complain that large protests in central London in recent years see huge numbers of local police taken out of their neighbourhoods to supervise the events.
Another way police could improve their access to local intelligence is by getting more local residents to attend ward panel meetings. These are open discussions where members of the public can discuss police priorities and share information. However, residents say the panels in the area are poorly attended. A Rotherhithe
resident complained that these meetings are poorly advertised and rarely attended by more than three people, one of whom is a delegate for the developer British Land.
This is a problem throughout London.
A Criminal Justice Inspectorate’s report found: ‘The force told us that attendance at ward panels is generally very low, and it isn’t using other methods to find out the views of the community to influence these decisions. A small number of people are therefore having a disproportionate influence over policing priorities.’
have ThieveS SNaTcheD a GoLDeN oppoRTuNiTY?
As Rotherhithe and Bermondsey continue to change, with sleek new developments rising and million-pound homes being sold to buyers from all over the world, it seems phone-snatchers have seized the opportunity to cash in on the
area’s growing wealth.
But behind the shiny new buildings and promises of regeneration, residents are left feeling vulnerable and frustrated. The police, stretched thin and often absent, have struggled to keep up with the surge in crime.
Meetings meant to bring the community and law enforcement together are left empty, while thieves on electric bikes roam the streets with little fear of being caught. Some locals say they’re "living in fear," with reports of safehouses and snatchers targeting their once-peaceful neighbourhood.
As hundreds more homes are built under the Canada Water Masterplan, and thousands of new residents move in, the question remains: will the police presence catch up? For now, both old and new residents are left wondering if their streets will ever feel safe again.
CGI of planned park at Canada Water with fl ats surrounding it
A balaclavawearing youth cycling through Canada Water
Spooky things to go to in South London
By Isabel Ramirez
We've gathered some spooky things to do during half term around southeast london, including a gory lesson on being a medical student in Victorian london.
SpoT GhoSTS aT The ToWeR of LoNDoN
Wander over the river to see how the city's scariest tower does Halloween.
As you walk in the footsteps of the infamous ghosts of prisoners at the Tower of London, spooky installations and surprises await. Designed to spook, not terrify, lose yourself in the eerie atmosphere and create an unforgettable Halloween for the whole family.
Pick up a trail when you arrive and keep track of the ghosts that you spot on your visit. They will be haunting the Tower between 10am-4:30pm each day.
Where: Tower of London, Tower Hill, EC3N 4AB
When: Saturday 26 October - Sunday 3 November
Admission: £17.40 child; £34.80 adult
haLLoWeeN Rave
Dance together with your ghastly ghouls and little witches on a floor filled with foam, bubbles and balloons - topped by the parachute dance!
Get creepily crafty on the Nifty Natty Craft tables and enjoy the baby chillout or play areas. Spooky fancy dress optional.
Where: Woolwich Works, The Fireworks Factory, 11 No 1 St, Royal Arsenal, SE18 6HD
When: Sunday 3 November
Admission: Adults £14 | Child (under 18s) £10 | Pre-walking infant free (with ticket)
MoNTh of The DeaD TouRS
Throughout October leading up to Halloween, there are ghostly tours and talks inside cemeteries and other eerie locations across the city.
Each event delves into a different topic related to death and the afterlife, whether that’s the scientific side of things (‘Dissection And Dissipation –Life as a medical student in Victorian London’ at the chapel at Guy's Hospital) or the scarier side (‘A Warehouse Of Homicide – The Metropolitan Police Crime Museum’).
Lots of the events are already sold out, so click here to book your tickets.
Where: Various locations
When: Until Saturday 2 November
Admission: From £12
gang members jaiLed for totaL of 102 years
By Herbie Russell
seVen gang members whose brutal quest for revenge led to GTA-style carnage on the streets of Peckham have been jailed for a combined 102 years.
Police said the “wave of violence”, which resembled video game levels of chaos, saw rivals stabbed and shot. It was sparked after the thugs’ friend was stabbed.
The perpetrators, hailing from across South East London, were jailed following a hearing at the Central Criminal Court on Friday, October 18.
All were found guilty of conspiracy to commit Grievous Bodily Harm. Smikle was convicted of additional offences including possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and possession with intent to supply class A drugs.
On Sunday, May 7, Tyreke Smikle and Timothy Newton visited an acquaintance in hospital who had been stabbed in Peckham.
The two men collected a bag of weapons and met with the group to form a revenge plan against those who attacked their friend, police said.
The court was told that the defendants, wearing balaclavas, split up between three vehicles, including a stolen moped. Two vehicles pursued another vehicle to the area between Bonita Mews and the Dog Kennel Hill Estate.Tyreke Smikle fired a shotgun through the driver’s window.
The group was then said to have pulled up alongside another vehicle on a nearby street and fired at a second victim.
They chased the car which crashed and flipped over as it tried to drive away. As the third victim ran off, Tyreke Smikle pursued him into a nearby garden and shot him in the leg at almost point-blank range, police said.
reportedly later saw the group in the possession of a large machete. No one involved suffered life-threatening injuries.
Detective Constable Luke Martinez, who led the investigation, said: “This group retaliated to violence with more violence, bringing a firearm and other weapons to the streets of London which could have seriously injured or killed someone.
“These shootings took place during daylight hours, with one occurring just metres away from a mother and her child.
“Today’s sentencing has taken dangerous individuals off the streets – I hope it serves as a stark warning to those seeking to threaten the safety of Londoners by brandishing such dangerous weapons.”
The GRoup WeRe SeNTeNceD To The foLLoWiNG:
Tyreke Smikle, 26, of Rotherhithe, was sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum term of 17 years and seven months.
Kai Davis-Francis, 25 (18.09.1999) of Lewisham, was sentenced to 17 years and six months in prison.
Timothy Newton, 18 (30.10.2005) of Nunhead, was sentenced to nine years and six months in prison.
Duan Correa, 21 (20.07.2003) of Nunhead, was sentenced to 16 years in prison.
Shaquille Marsh, 26 (19.01.1998) of Dagenham, was sentenced to 14 years and six months in prison.
Tyreece Quartey, 25 (11.08.1999) of Bermondsey, was sentenced to 13 years in prison.
Malachi Davis Francis, 21 (31.05.2003) of Nunhead, was sentenced to 14 years and six months in prison.
TheiR coNvicTioNS WeRe aS foLLoWS:
Tyreke Smikle was found guilty of conspiracy to commit GBH with intent and two counts of wounding with intent, possession of a firearm with intent to
endanger life, possession of a firearm and possession with intent to supply class A drugs at a hearing at The Central Criminal Court on the 18 July 2024.
Kai Davis-Francis was found guilty of conspiracy to commit GBH with intent at a hearing at The Central Criminal Court on the 18 July 2024.
Timothy Newton was found guilty of conspiracy to commit GBH with intent at a hearing at The Central Criminal Court on the 18 July 2024.
Duan Correa was found guilty of conspiracy to commit GBH with intent at a hearing at The Central Criminal Court on the 18 July 2024.
Shaquille Marsh was found guilty of conspiracy to commit GBH with intent at a hearing at The Central Criminal Court on the 18 July 2024.
Tyreece Quartey was found guilty of conspiracy to commit GBH with intent at a hearing at The Central Criminal Court on the 18 July 2024.
'Unsightly' metal gantries to be removed from Tower Bridge
By Herbie Russell
“UNsightly” metal gantries are to be removed from beneath Tower Bridge to restore its historical character.
Platforms and ladders installed in the mid-late 20th century provided access to lighting switch boxes.
Switch boxes have since been replaced with modern cabling so the rusting gantries can be removed from the iconic Victorian structure’s underside. City Bridge Foundation, in planning
documents submitted to Southwark Council, wrote: ‘In addition to their redundancy and poor condition, the gantries are also unsightly and obscure the view of the original structure, detracting from the character and appearance of the bridge.’
Other works proposed to the southern end include replacing rotten timber finders and repairing or replacing metal signage. A balcony will also be removed and a glass door replaced with a window. The existing redundant metal lighting switch boxes and cabling would be
decommissioned and removed prior to the removal of the gantries.
The northern end gantry is accessed via a granite platform at the ‘Dead Man’s Hole area, accessed from a footpath below the bridge's arches.
The proposals have been submitted by Robert Davies Architects & Historical Building Consultants on behalf of City Bridge Foundation.
Tower Hamlets Council and Southwark Council will consider the planning application as the bridge straddles both local authorities.
Witnesses
Northern abutment ‘Dead Man’s Hole’ viewed from the pedestrian pavement on the jetty to the east of the bridge
Jailed left to right: Duan Correa, Tyreke Smikle, Tyreece Quartey, Timothy Newton
Jailed left to right: Shaquille Marsh, Malachi Davis-Francis, Kai Davis-Francis
By Noah Vickers
Local Democracy Reporter
saDiQ Khan has hailed the significance of new security features on android smartphones, claiming that they will help to curb london’s sharply rising rates of phone theft.
The mayor on Tuesday visited Google’s offices in St Pancras for a demonstration of new software which the company says “will give added security for billions of people, including Londoners” before, during, and after a phone theft.
Mr Khan has argued that phone companies should work to “design out” the crime by making the devices harder to unlock without the right passcode, fingerprint or face recognition, thus giving thieves less incentive to steal them and sell them on.
But the mayor’s critics argue he is still failing to grip phone thefts through policing in the capital, as the number of recorded offences has soared over the last couple of years.
At the visit to Google’s offices, Mr Khan was shown how Android phones now include the option to hide particularly sensitive apps behind a separate PINlocked area, giving an extra level of assurance for phone-owners if their device is later stolen.
An AI-powered tool called Theft Detection Lock has also been developed which can sense when the device has been snatched and run away with. Once activated, it locks the screen to prevent the thief accessing it or any data stored on it.
The company has separately created a tool which enables users to remotely lock their device using just their phone number should it be lost or stolen, which Google said will help users who cannot remember their Google credentials in the moments after a theft, but still need to secure their personal data.
The mayor told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “I welcome the progress Google have made.
technoLogy that can ‘sense’ When mobiLe is stoLen
“They’ve taken up the challenge I put to phone companies last year, which was that they’ve got to do more to try and design out crime. I used, as the example last year, the progress made with the theft of stereos in cars, or TomTom satnav machines and so forth.
“They’ve taken up that challenge using AI, using sensors. That means if you’ve got an Android phone and you download this software, if somebody does steal or rob your phone, God forbid, that phone is almost useless to the thief or the robber.
“Your data is protected, but you as the user have an easy way to deactivate your phone and make sure it’s not used or your data stolen.
“I actually want, as the ultimate prize, for second-hand stolen phones to be
completely useless, for the parts not to be used by organised criminals and others, and that’s why those who make phones – mobile phone companies – need to do more still.
“At the same time, the police are working incredibly hard targeting crime hotspots, targeting organised criminals, bearing down on those who steal phones or try to steal phones. It’s a joint effort with the police and the phone companies.”
In the year following the lifting of lockdown restrictions, spanning October 2021 to September 2022, the Met Police recorded 37,534 phone thefts in London.
The figure rose by a quarter in the year that followed to hit 47,435 offences and then jumped by another 40 per cent between October 2023 and September
this year to reach 66,528.
Susan Hall, the mayor’s Tory opponent in City Hall elections earlier this year, has pointed out that almost half of reported thefts are not taken forwards for investigation by officers.
London Assembly member Ms Hall criticised the mayor for failing to hold a promised second roundtable discussion with figures from across the mobile phone industry, following an initial session he hosted last year.
Clearly these crimes and their many victims are not a priority to him,” she said in August.
Mr Khan’s office has said he will instead look to a national summit on tackling phone theft – announced in September by the Government – to build on the work
of last year’s London roundtable.
The mayor said: “Across the country, you’ve seen a big increase in robberies and thefts of phones. It’s a particular issue in London, because of the tourists we have, a transient population and so forth. One out of three robberies is of a mobile phone, more than two out of three personal thefts are of a mobile phone, so it’s a big issue for me and for the police.” He pointed to his recent decision to set up a new Robbery Reduction Partnership, seeking to link up the expertise of local councils, businesses, Transport for London and other organisations with the police. We now know from the data what the crime hotspots are, so there are police patrols – both overt and covert – targeting organised criminals,” Mr Khan said.
Nightclub has been shut down after a 24-year-old man was 'killed in a fight outside the venue'
By Robert Firth Local Democracy Reporter
a ClaPham club has been shut down after a 24-year-old man was stabbed to death in a fight outside the venue
Lambeth Council said it had ‘lost confidence’ in the management of Dirty Blonde Club on Wandsworth Road, following the incident in September where Dontae McLaren was murdered
The club was ordered to temporarily close earlier in October by the council after the Metropolitan Police said it had concerns further violence could occur if the venue remained ope Dynzell Patrick, 26, was charged with the murder of Mr McLaren on October 3. He is due to appear at the Central Criminal Court on December 23.
Tyanne Corbin, 25, and Hamid Hamdi, 25, appeared at Central Criminal Court on October 14 charged with causing Mr McLaren grievous bodily harm with intent, and violent disorder. They are due to appear at Kingston Crown Court on November 6.
A 26-year-old man arrested on
suspicion of violent disorder and causing grievous bodily harm is currently on bail.
The Met, which requested the review of the Dirty Blonde Club’s licence, said it was worried that the club’s management was not up to scratch. In documents submitted to the council in October, the Met wrote: “Police currently have concerns about how this venue is being run, as knives have been spotted inside the venue despite being informed that there is a robust search regime in place and there is also a lack of CCTV.”
Announcing the decision to revoke the club’s licence on Friday (October 25), Councillor Adrian Garden, chair of the licensing hearing, said: “Members determined there was sufficient evidence to show breaches of the current licence, which indicated that the premises were being operated in a way that undermined the licensing objectives.
“Unfortunately members were not satisfied that going forward the premises licence holder could be trusted to operate the premises consistently with the licensing objectives. Members were not
satisfied that the other less onerous steps available to them would likely achieve this end objective. Therefore revocation is the only appropriate
and 2:30 am on weekdays. The licensing
Dirty Blonde Club in Clapham been shut down by Lambeth Council. CREDIT: Google Street View
eXcLuSive
By Herbie Russell
VUlneRaBle PensioneRs say a four-year bed bug infestation has them “living like animals” at a nunhead retirement home.
“Thousands” of blood-sucking parasites have invaded almost every room at the Barset Sheltered Housing Unit.
A visit by this paper revealed the shocking state of affairs with residents found covered in scores of painful red bites. One vulnerable woman emerged from her room brandishing a filthy bed sheet splattered with squashed bugs and droppings. "I'm in a complete mess," she said.
The vermin invasion has fuelled growing “paranoia”. People admitted they were “at each other's throats” due to the stress of their shocking conditions.
Residents, many of whom suffer mental and physical disabilities say they are living under “quarantine” rules that restrict socialising. One person compared it to a "prison".
Southwark Council said it has reviewed all possible treatment options but found they would "likely be ineffective in the current context".
"The current procedures will remain in place, focusing on regular treatment and support for affected individuals," the Labour-run authority said.
But several residents claim pest control visits organised by Southwark Council, which runs the retirement home, have been totally ineffective.
Christopher Hales, 67, said: “There are thousands of them everywhere. We are being quarantined. It’s not a prison it’s supposed to be sheltered housing.”
He added: “We are really stressed out because we’re at each other’s throats saying ‘you’ve got bugs, no you’ve got bugs’.
“[There is] paranoia, arguments in the corridors, arguments in the laundry, in the day room. Every day, we speak about it and nothing gets done.”
Residents, who have laid insect traps and
pensioners 'Living Like animaLs' in bed bug-infested nunhead retirement home
bought bed bug spray, believe the vermin invasion has spread to 28 out of 30 flats.
One resident, Marie O’Sullivan, 70, who has an ulcerated foot, hobbled out of her room carrying a dirty bed sheet covered in bug entrails and droppings.
As she opened the door, dozens of bugs started crawling from her room into the corridor. She said: “I’m in a complete mess… there are quite a few.”
Patrick Cronin, 75, said: “You can’t sleep at night because it stinks because you’ve sprayed the bed and everything. We’re living like animals.”
Colourful sculpture unveiled in Camberwell
Andre is part of the London-based collective Intoart, an alternative art school led by learning-disabled and autistic artists and designers.
‘Let It Be Me’ is Williams’ first large scale public sculpture, building on an established series of text-based artworks including, ‘Hard Labour’, ‘It’s a Disaster’ and ‘Change Your Mind’.
Communal areas have sometimes been closed off and residents have been told not to visit each other’s rooms.
Carol Buttigieg, 71, tearfully explained that her family, including her grandchildren, were now reluctant to visit.
Residents who can mix say they take turns applying cream to each other to soothe the itchiness of their painful bines.
The infestation reportedly started four years ago but has escalated over the last two.
Southwark Council says it has conducted block-wide inspections and provides bi-
weekly treatments for affected units, along with dissolvable laundry bags and support for vulnerable residents.
A review of pest control procedures concluded that current methods will remain in place, with no alternative approach deemed effective.
The council plans to introduce regular bed bug awareness and prevention training sessions for residents to complement ongoing treatments.
Barset Road Sheltered Housing provides accommodation for elderly and disabled people who live in private bedroom units
but share communal facilities.
Cllr Sam Dalton, Deputy Cabinet Member for Supported Housing, said: “This bed bug infestation is a wholly unpleasant experience for residents at Barset, and I fully recognise the impact it is having on daily living.
"Bed bugs are notoriously hard to eradicate quickly as they require ongoing pest control and treatment, but I can reassure residents that we continue to treat the problem, and will keep reviewing the methods used until we permanently resolve the issue.”
Brave 14-year-old meets Prince Harry after winning award for organ donation campaign
By Isabel Ramirez
By Herbie Russell
a ColoURFUl sculpture has been unveiled displaying the words ‘let it Be me’ in Camberwell.
Andrew Williams, the artist, said he wanted people to be “excited by words” when they pass the installation outside 135 Camberwell New Road.
Mr Williams said: “I wanted to put myself on the plinth to be seen 24/7 on Camberwell New Road, as people walk by or look out from the number 36 bus.
“‘Let It Be Me’ is a happy place, to be excited by words, lettering and drawing and to share a joke.”
During his first site visit for the commission, Andre read out phrases, hearing them out loud and imagining their impact on people encountering the plinth for the first time.
He narrowed it down to ‘Let It Be Me’ and ‘What Dreams May Come’ and chose the more-grounded slogan.
The piece has been placed in the pocket sculpture garden belonging to BUILDHOLLYWOOD, a street advertising company.
Curated by Sarah Staton, Head of Sculpture MA at the Royal College of Aart, and co lead of the Spatial Value research group, the sculpture is the latest instalment of BUILDHOLLYWOOD’s ongoing Your Space Or Mine initiative.
It gives artists and creatives a unique platform for artistic interventions in the street. Andre’s work will be on display in Camberwell until Autumn 2025.
a yOUNg King's College hospital patient got to meet Prince harry after he was honoured with a prestigious award.
Jude Allen chatted to the Duke of Sussex about his work to raise awareness of organ donation at the WellChild Awards.
The 14-year-old had intestinal failure when he was two years old and has undergone more than 100 surgeries including two multiple organ transplants at King’s College Hospital, that have helped him to live a happy life. His award was given in recognition of his campaigning work to encourage organ donation.
The WellChild Awards celebrate the courage of children coping with serious illnesses or complex conditions. They also honour the dedication of health professionals who go the extra mile to help sick children and their families. Jude, who lives with his three brothers in Portsmouth, was picked from hundreds of nominations from
across the UK to win the category of Inspirational Young Person. Kellie Allen, Jude’s mother, said: “Jude’s courage and determination have always shone through throughout his life, and he refuses to let anything stand in his way. We’re so proud of how he has faced every challenge life has thrown at him, and has used every opportunity to show how organ donation can change lives.”
Carly Bambridge, Clinical Nurse Specialist at King’s College Hospital, who has supported Jude and his family, added: “Jude’s incredible strength of character, kind attitude and amazing
spirit have impressed us all at King’s, and this is a very well deserved award. It has been a privilege to see Jude enjoying life to the full following his second transplant.”
Miriam Cortes-Cerisuelo, transplant surgeon at King’s College Hospital was part of the team that carried out Jude’s most recent multiple organ transplant. She said: “Everyone in the surgical team is very proud of Jude’s achievement. His resilience, patience, bravery and positive attitude have been exemplary. It’s a real honour to see him enjoying life and helping other people.”
Jude with his mum, meeting the Duke of Sussex
Andre Williams beside the 'Let It Be Me' sculpture
Residents Patrick Cronin (left) and Carol Buttigieg (right)
Residents at Barset Sheltered Housing shared their experiences of a bed bug infestation
A resident displaying the bites they have on their arms
Bed bugs caught in one of the traps spotted around the centre
A woman emerged from her room carrying a bed sheet covered with bed bug splatters and droppings
Bed bugs spilling out of a resident’s room into a communal corridor
Welcoming new residents at Tower Bridge Care Home
Tower Bridge Care Home, now under new management by Agincare, is proud to welcome new residents into its vibrant community!
Conveniently located in the heart of Southwark, just a short walk from the iconic Tower Bridge, our purpose-built care home offers exceptional residential and nursing care with 122 comfortable rooms for people living there.
At Tower Bridge Care Home, residents have plenty of spaces to relax and enjoy their day. With nine sitting rooms, five dining areas, and a cozy on-site café, there are plenty of opportunities to unwind or spend time with family. The enclosed garden, complete with a vibrant conservatory, offers a peaceful place to take in the outdoors.
What sets us apart? We’ve got something for everyone: from a cinema room and sensory space to an in-house bar and a professional hairdressing salon. There’s even an activities room where residents can enjoy a full calendar of entertainment.
Brought to you by Agincare —one of England’s leading family-owned care providers— you can trust us to deliver high-quality, compassionate care. Agincare has already earned the trust of thousands across South London, with four other homes in the area providing exceptional care.
Whether it's round-the-clock nursing care or personalised residential care, our highly trained teams are trained to ensure every resident receives the right level of care while feeling comfortable and safe.
Now accepting new residents! Experience exceptional care and comfort at Tower Bridge Care Home, right in the heart of Southwark.
By Isabel Ramirez
The ToweR of London is having an immersive sound and light show to honour those who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars.
Visitors to the immersive afterdark experience will be invited inside the walls of the famous fortress next month to see the historic White Tower transformed with moving images reflecting on the conflicts.
From Friday 8 - Saturday 16 November, Poppy Fields at the Tower
of London will run for nine nights, including Remembrance Day.
This unique show will create space for visitors to remember those who lost their lives in the conflicts, as well as those who served. It will also look forward to exploring the collective desire for peace.
Falling poppy petals, silhouettes of soldiers and the World War One military medal “For Bravery in the Field” will be among the artwork lighting up the Tower, accompanied by music and poetry recordings.
Ticketholders will also get special access to see the Crown Jewels without the usual crowds and learn about their removal from the Tower during both world wars.
Discounted tickets are available for veterans and serving members of the Armed Forces, with £1 tickets on offer for those in receipt of certain financial means-tested benefits.
Get tickets online at hrp.org.uk
Adult (16+ years): £19.50
Children (5-15 years): £12.50
Chris Kaba: Peckham MP says 'trust in the police remains a serious issue' after not guilty verdict
By Herbie Russell
miaTTa FahnBUlleh mP has said “trust in the police remains a serious issue” for her Peckham constituents after the acquittal of the police officer who shot Chris Kaba.
Sgt Martyn Blake shot Chris Kaba in September 2022 after stopping his car on a residential street in Streatham.
Kaba, 24, who was unarmed, was followed while driving an Audi that police believed was linked to a firearms incident the previous evening.
The unanimous not guilty verdict, which took just three hours to reach, fuelled police anger that Blake was ever put on trial.
Following the not guilty verdict, Miatta Fahnbulleh MP for Peckham, shared a statement saying: “At the heart of this trial are the family and friends of Chris Kaba, who have lost a loved one at a young age.
“They will be suffering immensely through the grief and the pain. My deepest sympathies and thoughts are with them.
We must respect their right to grieve.
“When someone loses their life in connection with the police it is vital that this is fully and properly investigated. We also respect the legal process.
“Trust in the police remains a serious issue in Peckham and across London.
Particularly within our Black communities.
“Authorities must recognise that and
refocus efforts. I will do all I can working alongside the community, the police, the government and the Mayor of London to build that trust.”
Kaba’s family, from West Dulwich, said the verdict was "painful proof that our lives are not valued by the system".
Kaba has since been named as the gunman who shot a man in both legs at Oval Space nightclub, Bethnal Green, days before he was killed by the firearms officer. He was a rapper who performed under the names Madix or Mad Itch and was part of the Brixton Hill-based 67 gang, a UK drill group and organised crime outfit.
Police officers did not know who behind the Audi’s wheel on the night Kaba died. They did know it had been used as a getaway car in another shooting in Brixton the previous night.
An automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) marker had been placed on the car, which alerted the police.
Mr Blake denied intending to kill the 24-year-old and told jurors he believed one of his colleagues could be killed by Kaba’s car as he tried to escape the police stop.
Three other men have already been convicted for their involvement in the Hackney nightclub shooting and are in prison.
During their trial, the judge named Kaba as the gunman. Kaba died before being charged in connection but was later named on the charge sheet for the trial.
man proposes to girLfriend on pLatform at denmark hiLL station
By Isabel Ramirez
a CoUPle just got engaged on the platform at Denmark Hill train station - where they had their first kiss years ago.
Ian Stoney was keen to recreate that romantic moment with his now fiancé, Laura McKinley, so he enlisted the help of station staff.
The couple met at the Royal College of Art where they both work, Ian as a bronze sculptor and Laura as a glass blower.
On Wednesday (23 October) at 1pm, whilst standing on platform 4, Ian popped the question to a shocked Laura, who said yes! Station staff made the occasion special by
bringing back a retired member of GTR staff, Christopher Clayton, to make the tannoy announcement as the couple had fond memories of him.
Trudy Habgood, Thameslink station manager for Denmark Hill, said: “Ian approached us yesterday about his plans, so it was a quick turnaround. He arrived at the station first, I gave him a cup of tea to calm his nerves and then it was action stations.
The couple embrace after Laura says 'yes'
(photo: supplied by GTR)
“When we knew Laura had arrived, Christopher said over the Tannoy ‘If there’s a Laura McKinley at the station, please make your way to the bridge near platform 4.’
By Herbie Russell
FiReFighTeRs TaCKleD a maisonette fire Walworth that is now under investigation.
Six fire engines and around forty firefighters were called to Dawes Street at 11.52pm on Sunday, October 20.
Part of a maisonette split between first and ground floors was damaged by the fire.
The blaze was under control by 12.55am.
There were no reports of any injuries.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson
said: "Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters tackled a fire at a block of maisonettes on Dawes Street in Walworth.
"Part of a maisonette split between the first and ground floors was damaged by the fire. There are currently no reports of any injuries.
"Control Officers received the call at 2352 and mobilised firefighters from Old Kent Road, Peckham, Dockhead and surrounding fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 0055.
"The cause of the fire is under investigation."
By Herbie Russell
a FlyOver in Elephant and Castle could become an ‘elevated park’ under plans proposed by Southwark Council.
The road rising above the Bricklayers Arms roundabout could become ‘greenery’ offering ‘excellent views over Old Kent Road and the city beyond’.
Southwark Council has been seeking local views on the idea amid plans to reconfigure the entire gyratory.
Southwark's cabinet approved the next draft of the Old Kent Road Area Action Plan
(OKRAAP) on Tuesday, October 15.
Demolition of the flyover has previously been considered but ruled out over cost.
Mayor of London Boris Johnson said there were "no plans to convert the Bricklayers Arms flyover into an elevated park such as a New York-style High Line” in 2013. In 2018 Transport for London ruled out the possibility of building a tube station at the Bricklayers Arms as part of the Bakerloo line extension.
The council ran an online consultation about the Bricklayers Arms that finished on Sunday, October 20.
Poppy Fields at Tower of London
Chris Kaba
L: Ian Stoney proposes to Laura McKinley; R: Station staff were in on the surprise (GTR)
The entrance to Dawes Street, Walworth, seen from the East Street side
Kingsdale Foundation School
First Class and Top of the Class
‘Pupils achieve exceptionally well in a wide range of subjects and attain highly at GCSE and A level.’ Ofsted 2023
Applications for Sixth Form courses are now being accepted
Take advantage of the chance to visit Kingsdale Foundation School and see for yourself how we bring the best out of our students. A tour of Kingsdale Foundation School enables you to realise why we receive such glowing reports. In the Autumn term 2024 you will have just that opportunity as we will be holding Sixth Form Open Evenings for September 2025 entry.
Harnessing talent!
Kingsdale is a dynamic, exceptionally popular and progressive school that has invested £30m to develop an award-winning educational learning environment. In our specialist academic Sixth Form Campus, students study a combination of respected traditional, performing arts and creative A Levels in addition to alternative high value Level 3 courses. Our average class sizes are approximately ten in the Sixth Form. We also pride ourselves on our excellent links to the best higher education institutions in the world. A residential trip to Harvard and Yale in the USA is organised annually.
Scholarships in Mathematics and the Creative & Expressive Arts are on offer for gifted and talented candidates who meet our entry requirements. Scholars receive free individual or small group tuition provided by expert professionals to the value of ~£1,000 per annum. Prospective students are invited to come along to our Open Evenings to explore the fantastic opportunities and inspiring state-of-the-art facilities in our dedicated Sixth Form Centre. As our most recent Ofsted Report states : ‘ ‘Pupils are rightly very proud of their school. They really enjoy their learning and talk with enthusiasm about the school’s culture of mutual respect and inclusivity.’ Ofsted 2023
Our Year 12 Open Day dates for 2025 entry are as follows: 4.00-6.30pm Wednesday 6th November 2024 4.00-6.30pm Wednesday 27th November 2024
Visit www.kingsdalefoundationschool.org.uk , call 020 8655 9723 or email sixthform@kingsdale.southwark.sch.uk for a Prospectus
The amazing achievement of attaining 10A*s & 4A Grades between them at A level have enabled Eve, Ben, Rosa & Freya to study Classics, Philosophy, English at Cambridge University and Economics at Oxford respectively!
18 NEWS
By Robert Firth
Local Democracy Reporter
a lonDon council has been left with little other choice than to approve hundreds of controversial homes on a former gasworks site after it failed to meet its housing targets.
Councillors sitting on Lewisham’s planning committee received legal advice that they would have ‘zero per cent success’ in defending a decision to block hundreds of homes on the Bell Green gas works site in Sydenham, South East London if an appeal was lodged.
Melanie Dawson, head of legal services at the local authority, gave the guidance to councillors in private after she said she’d prefer that members of the public were excluded from the meeting on Tuesday evening (October 22) while she relaid legal advice.
Councillors were due to vote on a motion to refuse planning permission for the proposals brought by Cllr Liam Curran, Labour member for Sydneham and a voting member of the planning committee, when Ms Dawson made the intervention.
Councillors then agreed to sit in private while they heard her advice. When members of the public were readmitted to the meeting at the council’s town hall in Catford, councillors voted against Cllr Curran’s motion.
Cllr Edison Huynh, Labour member for Lewisham Central and a voting member of the planning committee, then explained the legal advice that councillors had been given by Ms Dawson.
He said: “We’ve failed our housing delivery test. We must grant planning permission, unless any adverse impact of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits. We were told that on appeal it would literally be zero per cent success. We haven’t heard anything that would be defensible.”
Cllr Huynh, who is also cabinet member for communities and culture, was at this point interrupted by hecklers from the audience before continuing: “Okay, I retract that then. We were told that in their legal opinion [there would be zero per cent success].
Given that this is a brownfield site which can meet 16 per cent of the borough’s annual housing target and given the legal advice that we’ve been given, we’re in this position because we have repeatedly failed housing targets.
“And I speak that as a member of a generation which has been locked out from the housing ladder and a generation that still lives with their parents and can’t get on housing. I can’t see a defensible position and so I’m going to move to approve given our legal advice.”
Councillors subsequently waved through by majority vote the plans brought by developer Barratt London for 262 flats in blocks up to 14 storeys high on the former gas works site.
The amount of homes being completed in Lewisham is running at half of targets, according to the Housing Delivery Test, an annual measure of the number of homes being finished. Where delivery is below 75 per cent, as in Lewisham’s case, a presumption in favour of granting planning permission applies to councils.
Julia Webb, a local resident who spoke against the plans at the meeting, said she was worried about how close
LeWisham approves controversiaL homes after missing housing targets
one of the planned apartment blocks was to the Grade II listed Livesey Hall, which backs onto the site.
She said: “Block E is so close to the rear of the Livesey and its outdoor smoking bar area that the 50 bedrooms immediately overlooking it would be subject to persistent noise nuisance during evening events.”
Cllr Chris Best, Labour member for Sydenham who was not on the planning committee, added: “Like many objectors I think the 14 storey block is too high. […] It’s out of keeping and character [with the area]. I have got concerns with the poor quality of the homes. The space offered in the smart starter homes. It’s very small. It’s very cramped.”
Out of the 262 homes in the plans, just 71 are classed as ‘affordable.’
Of those, 37 would be available at London Affordable Rents – which is designed for people on low incomes, while 34 would be shared ownership homes – where a person buys a share of a property and pays rent on the remaining portion.
Cllr Susan Wise, Labour member for Perry Vale, who was not a voting member of the committee, said it was ‘unacceptable’ that most of the London Affordable Rent homes would be two bedroom properties when the borough had a need for homes with three bedrooms and more.
Tom Oxley, senior development manager for Barratt London, said the plans were ‘high quality’ and would deliver much needed new homes and public spaces.
He told the meeting: “Our proposals will make the best use of the site, taking into account site constraints and being mindful of the sensitive and adjacent Livesey Memorial Hall and important listed building and community asset alongside the listed war memorial.”
Residents who oppose Barratt London\'s plans for the Bell Green gasworks site in Sydenham
CGIs of approved homes on the Bell Green gas works site in Sydenham. Photo from Lewisham Council planning documents
Bell Green gas works in the mid-20th century. Photo from Lewisham Council planning documents
By Noah Vickers
Local Democracy Reporter
oFFiCials oRganising london’s New year’s eve Fireworks rejected claims this week that the annual event can become a “borderline deathtrap”
Senior staff at City Hall, responsible for planning the celebratory display which draws more than 100,000 people to the banks of the Thames, said they were increasing the number of stewards this year. But they declined to “recognise” a claim made by Tory London Assembly member Alessandro Georgiou that attendees faced “serious threats” to their safety.
Speaking at a meeting of City Hall’s oversight committee on Wednesday, Mr Georgiou said: “A lot of the time, this event – and I’m not ascribing blame necessarily – but it turns into the borderline of a deathtrap, quite frankly, both during and after, due to the number of people, the way that the event sometimes is handled.”
He added: “I know what you’re going to say – you’re going to say that the vast majority of people… are satisfied with the event, and I’m sure that’s very well true from those that have responded [to surveys]. But in terms of looking forward, is there a different way we can say that, without making it sound like it’s all hunky dory, it’s all fine, everyone’s happy?”
Mr Georgiou said there was a need to “recognise there are serious threats to people”.
Though the assembly member did not refer to specific incidents, there were reports at last year’s event of overcrowding and of some people without tickets breaking down barriers to access the viewing areas
Similar scenes were witnessed the previous year, when eight arrests were made, including two for drunk and disorderly behaviour, one for drinkdriving and one for possession of an offensive weapon
There were two assaults that year on police officers who sustained minor injuries and one common assault with possession of cannabis. However, these offences affected only a tiny fraction of those attending.
Nicole Valentinuzzi, City Hall’s assistant director for external relations, said: “I’m not sure we would recognise that there are serious threats, or any kind of characterisation of a deathtrap. I don’t think that would be operationally correct of us to substantiate.
“We can definitely think about the way
Alessandro Georgiou
officiaLs organising neW year’s
eve fireWorks rejected cLaims event is a 'borderLine deathtrap'
that we refer to satisfaction levels of the event, and those who attend the event.”
David Holley, City Hall’s head of events, added that the team behind the display was “always striving to improve” on how it is delivered, and does consider feedback from attendees.
Mr Georgiou responded by insisting that there was a “serious risk to individuals, in terms of physcial presence”.
He added: “I don’t think any mayor has particularly cracked this, so this isn’t a political point, but just how we make these events safer – I think that’s a crucial point.
Labour member Bassam Mahfouz then asked – after mentioning the importance of tackling “disinformation” – how long London’s fireworks display
has been running for, and how many people have died as a consequence of attending.
Mr Holley said it had been running in its current, ticketed format since 2014, and that no one had died in that time.
Mr Georgiou interjected: “I’d just say to assembly member Mahfouz, there’s a first time for everything, isn’t there, and you shouldn’t have to wait for someone to die before you change things.”
Mr Holley had earlier told the committee: “Last year we experienced an uplift in the number of people coming to the event with fake tickets, and the challenge was that, understandably, a lot of people had spent a lot of money on these fake tickets and couldn’t quite understand that they had been tricked.
“So when we informed them that this
was a fake ticket, they were not willing to move away from the entrances, which then created a crowding barrier.” He said this resulted in people with official tickets struggling to gain access.
“The other big challenge the event has, is that we have a high volume of non-ticketed people coming into central London on the off-chance that they might get into the event or be able to see the fireworks from a [place that is] not a viewing area,” said Mr Holley, adding that those people tend to crowd around entrance areas too, creating further access problems.
The event utilised 3,000 stewards last year, and intends to increase that number this year – though it has not been decided to what level.
However, there will be a higher
proportion of ‘SIA stewards’, who have been licensed by the Security Industry Authority – meaning that they are fully trained to screen people at gates, conduct bag and body searches, eject people and respond to crowding incidents.
Ordinary stewards can only offer advice and information to people, monitor crowd flows and assist with evacuations, the committee was told. Ms Valentinuzzi said her team is “constantly reporting” websites selling fake tickets for this year’s event. Those wishing to attend the event, which costs between £20 and £50, have been advised that the only of�icial seller of tickets is Ticketmaster, with further information available at www.london. gov.uk/events
Firefighters will no longer attend automatic alarms in most non-residential buildings from this week
By Noah Vickers Local Democracy Reporter
The lonDon Fire Brigade (lFB) has announced that, from this week, firefighters will no longer attend automatic alarms in most non-residential buildings – unless they are told a fire is definitely happening.
The change – which will affect properties like office blocks and industrial estates – is being brought in to save the fire service valuable time, as the LFB says that less than one per
cent of automatic alarms are triggered by genuine fires. The policy was first announced by the Brigade in May this year, but has only been put into action.
Craig Carter, the LFB’s assistant commissioner for prevention and protection, said: “Following a period of extensive engagement with our communities and stakeholders, we are now ready to roll out this new policy.
“We are here to keep London’s communities safe, and we want to do this as effectively as possible. We will always attend an emergency and will continue to attend an alarm at any
premises where people sleep – such as homes, hotels and prisons.
“As outlined in our Community Risk Management Plan, reducing our attendance at false alarms will give firefighters more time to focus on protection and prevention activity, such as visiting our most vulnerable residents and communities, fire safety checks, as well as operational training.”
The affected automatic systems are those where the LFB is alerted to a potential fire without anyone having called them.
The new policy will only apply between
7am and 8.30pm. During those hours, the Brigade will only attend the affected buildings if a call is also received from a person reporting a fire. Outside those hours, the LFB will still attend all alarms in any building. Other premises exempt from the new policy include hospitals, schools and listed heritage sites.
The Brigade has said that the change will bring the LFB into line with almost every other UK fire service. Overall, false alarms make up 40 per cent of the calls the LFB receives. The most common causes include poor alarm design or maintenance, dust
inside the detectors, or steam.
The LFB added that it has consulted on its new policy with businesses, community groups and Londoners “to ensure they understand what these changes mean for them, what they need to do to prepare and how to ensure they can keep their buildings, and the people they are responsible for, safe”.
This included holding an online webinar in August, which was attended by more than 100 people from across 60 groups, including transport bodies, councils, and retailers.
what’s on
the remarkabLe WaLter tuLL
gR eenwiCh TheaTR e, as part of Black history month, will be hosting our little hour, which tells the inspirational story of the pioneering, black footballer walter Tull, writes Michael Holland.
Written by award-winning playwright
Dougie Blaxland and composer Chris Anthony, and starring Leon Newman, Neil Reidman and Susie Broadbent, Our Little Hour explores how Walter Tull – grandson of a Barbadian slave – orphaned at eight years old, rose to prominence against all odds.
Walter was the first black footballer to play at the highest level of the domestic game - at Tottenham Hotspur - then went on to achieve yet another historic breakthrough as the first man of his heritage to be commissioned as an Officer in the British Army.
Tragically killed in action just a few weeks before the end of World War 1, Walter’s achievements have earned him a distinguished place in British history and in the hearts of everyone who knows his story.
Dougie Blaxland’s route to becoming a writer was ‘circuitous’, he says, and it was that journey which intrigued me enough to ask for this interview.
After reading English at Kent University and then an MPhil research degree at Bristol University ‘where my thesis was about 18th Century Theatre’, Dougie became a professional cricketer for Kent and then Derbyshire.
Sporting careers are notoriously short so when cricket run itself out the intrepid all-rounder reverted back
hello norma jeane
marilyN - the exhibition has recently arrived in Bermondsey and goes way beyond the usual stuff that we all think we know about the legendary hollywood star, and delves deeper into her other life when she wasn’t playing up to the cameras but doing much more important work that the exhibition brings in to the spotlight, writes Michael Holland.
to his educational qualifications and took up teaching English. ‘I then found myself getting promoted - ending up as Head of two secondary schools in the South West,’ he says.
Howzat?, I wanted to ask, but I was now wondering where the playwriting fitted in.
‘I started writing plays as a teacher when I was responsible for directing school plays and discovered that I couldn’t find plays with parts for young adults - so I started writing my own.’
Adapting to the needs of the students and the school led to Dougie winning numerous writing awards. He also created his own niche of penning plays about his sporting heroes (Colin Milburn Jonny Wilkinson, Chris Lewis…) and after a play about footballer Laurie Cunningham was well received on a UK tour he was approached by Show Racism the Red Card to write a play about Walter Tull. And to add to that something extra, he chose to turn the play into a musical!
‘Mainly because I had never written the book and lyrics for a musical before and I wanted to break new ground… and also because we felt that music would enhance and add drama and feeling to Walter’s great story.’
Having reached great heights in sport and teaching I was quite surprised to hear Dougie say it was the playwriting that gave him the most satisfaction: ‘I find writing plays the most fulfilling because I have the absolute freedom to explore and write about areas and subjects of my choice. In many ways
Underneath the arches of London Bridge Station the exhibits are displayed chronologically, taking us through Norma Jeane Baker’s life from her birth in 1926 to her sad demise in 1962.
It was tough. She was placed in care at just two weeks old and her childhood was spent as an orphan in homes and foster care until she was eleven and her mum’s friend took her in.
The new moving pictures was where the Norma Jeane’s foster family found their entertainment, and is where she came to idolise Jean Harlow - The Blonde Bombshell. She quickly learnt how to make her face up like her and in her early teens was confident enough to dress how she wanted to dress - Tight jeans and not the obligatory dresses girls were expected to wear.
To avoid going back to the orphanage she married a neighbour, five years older than the 15 year-old Norma. Aged 18 she did her first shoot for an army photographer and appears in the U.S. Army magazine. She now saw a way out of her humdrum existence in the munitions factory but her husband saw her as a housewife - The beginning of a pattern of
it brings together all of my interests: my love of sport, my love of literature, creative arts and my fascination with what makes people tick.’
An explanation I could not argue with.
Dougie Blaxland, said of Our Little Hour: ‘I am so pleased that organisations like Show Racism The Red Card are exploring new ways of engaging people
weak but domineering husbands, none of whom could hold her back.
Norma Jeane’s career plan was acting and modelling. She had speech training, acting lessons and worked out; she read self-help books and attended evening classes in psychology, politics and history. After changing her name and signing a contract with 20th Century Fox her career began to take off, slowly at first, but when leading roles came she was never going to look back. She demanded more money, and got it. Her acting skills were confirmed with Golden Globe awards.
Alas, while Marilyn was wowing the world her domestic life was not so successful. Her fame overshadowed her husbands’, who wanted her to stay at home, but that was not in her life plan. All three marriages inevitably ended in divorce.
Marilyn - The Exhibition has a focus on the other side of her life; Her commitment to supporting minorities, homosexuality, her academic reading, her salary that was less than the male stars and being reduced to the dumb blonde roles. WE discover how she
in their campaign against racism - and I hope that audiences feel inspired by Walter Tull. Orphaned at just 8 years old and subjected to dreadful racial abuse he nonetheless rose to achieve two remarkable firsts:
The first Black British footballer to play in the top division of our domestic game; the first Black British Army
helped the people in her former life.
Marilyn took herself to the East Coast where she would study acting under Lee Strasberg at his Actors’ Studio, a move that riled 20th Century Fox, as did her flirtations with Communism.
Bad marriages took their toll, miscarriages added to the stress, her incarceration on a mental ward due to an incorrect diagnosis was a public nightmare. But she was a fighter and left New York to return to Hollywood and a smaller house where, sadly, she eventually died.
Marilyn’s story is told through iconic photos and dresses, but also by the mundane objects that a modern woman needs to keep up appearances: curlers, stockings, creams, simple scarves, tops and skirts, some of which have been eaten by moths after too many years in poor storage; there are letters, phone books, scripts, contracts, invoices, and props from some of her films. Many of the exhibits have never been seen in public before.
The dress she wore for President Kennedy’s Birthday Gala, when she sang Happy Birthday to him is there
Officer to lead men in combat!’
And now we all have the opportunity to see that story told.
Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, SE10 8ES 22nd - 23rd October. 7.30pm, Wed matinee 2.30pm. Admission: £17, £14.50.
Booking: www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk
up in lights and looking gorgeous, plus the information that it was last sold for $4.2m, highlighting the myth that now surrounds the icon who has been dead for over 60 years.
Yes, of course, many people will go along to see the fantastic outfits, but I hope they spend some time taking in all the normal, mundane exhibits that was also a big part of Monroe’s life.
The collection has been curated and provided by Ted Stampfer who has spent most of his life since the 80s buying up everything he can to do with Marilyn: ‘ I was captivated by her beauty and attitude,’ he says.
An added bonus is that the voice on the audio guide is none other than Bermondsey’s Suzie Kennedy, one of the world’s top Marilyn impersonators.
Arches London Bridge, 8 Bermondsey St, London, SE1 2ER. Tickets from £21.90.
Groups & Schools: via trade@ hospitalityline.co.uk
For further details: www.marilynlondonbridge.co.uk.
Photo by Bert Stern (Ted Stampfer Collection)
Heading south - our pick of upcoming autumnal events
Like Gods Exhibition
Eight custom-built, giant letters spelling the words LIKE GODS, a reference to HG Wells’ novel Men Like Gods (1923), are exhibiting in the Deptford Lounge. The letters are bookcases, housing over one thousand books, drawn from the artist Ruth Beale’s father’s extensive collection of science fiction books from the 1950s to the 2010s. LIKE GODS acknowledges the human capacity to “play god”: to presume to imagine the future and reshape the present. It also speaks to a lifelong passion for science fiction, and the act of rescuing and keeping books both personally and publicly. Ruth will also be exhibiting The Stacks, a short film in conversation with her father, David Beale, as he explores the basement bookstacks of Swiss Cottage Library, selecting science fiction titles, and explaining how he accumulated his books over sixty years. This event is part of the Imagined Worlds series at the Deptford Lounge, a month-long celebration of fantasy and sci-fi exploring world-building and utopian and dystopian futures.
Date: Friday 1 to Saturday 30 November 2024. Tickets: Free.9 Giffin Street, Deptford SE8 4RJ deptfordlounge.org.uk/whats-on/event/like-gods-exhibition
Bonfire Night at the Old Brewery
Are you looking for a sparkling night of celebration for Bonfire Night? Head down to The Old Brewery on the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College for an evening of festivities, delicious food and warming drinks. Hats and gloves at the ready, gather around the venue’s outdoor heated tables and savour seasonal treats like hot apple cider or mulled wine. And the food menu sees pub classics that welcome the winter season like no other – cyder battered fish and chips, Cumberland sausages nestled on a pile of mash and an apple and berry crumble for dessert. Cosy season is here.
Date: Tuesday 5 November 2024. The Pepys Building, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10 9LW. www.oldbrewerygreenwich.com/whats-on
Sea Shanty Festival
Cutty Sark’s Sea Shanty Festival is back for another year, where you can enjoy traditional maritime music in celebration of the tea clipper’s 155th birthday. The event will feature the vocal talents of bands and artists from across the UK and beyond, including The HogEye Men, who have been singing shanties and maritime songs for almost 20 years, plus London Sea Shanty Collective, She Shanties, Sonny Brazil, Lucas Vale school and Poetry Vs Colonialism and The Gouri Choudhury Band. Time to grab your mateys and enjoy a day on the docks.
Date: Saturday 23 November 2024
Tickets: Free with entry ticket to the Cutty Sark King William Walk, SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/cutty-sark/sea-shanty-festival-2024
Make Joy
Make Joy is a one-day celebration of yarn and friendship for knitters, crocheters and makers hosted at Woolwich Works. You’ll find a curated marketplace of local London makers, and those from further afield, where you can buy hand-dyed and rare breed yarns, notions and more items for your crafting. Listen to a series of free talks from designers and makers within the craft industry and enjoy a coffee or prosecco while making new friends in the Maker’s Lounge.
Date: Saturday 9 November 2024. Tickets: £5 in advance, £7 on the door The Fireworks Factory, 11 No 1 Street, Royal Arsenal, SE18 6HD www.woolwich.works/events/make-joy
Women at War
This new Painted Hall exhibition features Wrens at Greenwich and Beyond. The Women’s Royal Naval Service was popularly known as the Wrens, and the WRNS Officer Training Course was established at the Royal Naval College in 1939. This display vestibule marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, in which the Wrens played a vital role. It presents documents and artefacts belonging to Jane Shorey and Nina Wilkin, two of the thousands of Wrens who completed their training at the Royal Naval College during the war years.
Dates: Showing until January 2026
Tickets: Included in your ticket to the Painted Hall (£16.50) College Approach, Greenwich, SE10 9LW ornc.org/whats-on/painted-hall-displaywomen-at-war-wrens-at-greenwichand-beyond
Sofar Sounds on the Thames
Are you ready to rock the boat with this floating gig on the Thames? The Uber Boat is hosting Sofar Sounds while you ride from Embankment Pier all along the river and up to Greenwich. Live music lovers are invited all aboard for an intimate concert with a mystery lineup of three artists, curated by the Sofar Sounds team. You’ll be able to experience various genres and styles, so there will be something for all fans to bop along to, and the chance to discover your next favourite artist. Boarding is at 7:15pm, but you can arrive early to enjoy a refreshment at Clipper Lounge.
Date: Thursday 14 November 2024
Tickets: £41
Victoria Embankment, WC2N 6NU www.thamesclippers.com/ whats-on-and-offers/sofar-sounds-intimategigs-on-the-thames
© Nina Wilkin
LICENSING ACT 2003
APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE
Name of Applicant: Anspach and Hobday
Address of Premises: Unit 3, Valley Point Industrial Estate, Beddington Farm Road, Croydon, CR0 4WP
Date Submitted: 21st October 2024
Licensable Activities Applied for: Supply of Alcohol, Supply of Alcohol On & Off Premises (08:0023:00, Monday - Sunday)
Full details of the application can be inspected on the licensing register, online at www.sutton.gov.uk or in person at the address given below.
Deadline for representations: 18th November 2024
(a date 28 consecutive days starting on the day after the day on which the application was given to the Authority)
Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Authority by post: Licensing Team, London Borough of Sutton, Civic Offices, St Nicholas Way, Sutton SM1 1EA or by email:licensing@sutton.gov.uk
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum penalty on conviction of such an offence is an unlimited fine.
Notice of application for a Premises Licence.
Notice is hereby given that Burrito London Ltd has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at Burridos, 102 Mitcham Road, London, SW17 9NG for Late Night Refreshment (indoors) - Monday to Sunday 23.00hrs to 02.00hrs
Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 20th November 2024 stating the grounds for making said representation to: Merton 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 Merton 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.merton.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.
Notice of application for a Premises Licence.
Notice is hereby given that KARKCHAII TOOTING LTD has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at Karak Chaii Tooting, 35 Upper Tooting Road, London, SW17 7TR for Late Night Refreshment (Indoors) - Monday to Sunday 23.00hrs to 02.00hrs Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 25th November 2024 stating the grounds for making said representation to: Merton 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 Merton 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.merton.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.
LICENSING ACT 2003 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PREMISES LICENCE
Name of applicant: SA.PA Authentic Italian Food Ltd
Postal address of premises: Kiosk 14 Level 3, St Nicholas Centre, St Nicholas Way, Sutton, SM1 1AY
Application Details: Sale of Alcohol on and off the premises
Everyday 08:00 – 21:00
Full details of the application can be inspected on the licensing register, online at www.sutton.gov.uk or in person at the address given below. Deadline for representations: 21 November 2024
(a date 28 consecutive days starting on the day after the day on which the application was given to the Authority)
Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Authority by post: Licensing Team, London Borough of Sutton, Civic Offices, St Nicholas Way, Sutton SM1 1EA or by email: licensing@sutton.gov.uk
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum penalty on conviction of such an offence is an unlimited fine.
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 16A
TEMPORARY RESTRICTION OF PEDESTRIAN AND VEHICULAR TRAFFIC FOR FILMING – CORNWALL ROAD, ROUPELL STREET, EXTON STREET, ALASKA STREET, BRAD STREET, SANDELL STREET, AND WOOTON STREET
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable filming to take place in in Cornwall Road, Roupell Street, Exton Street, Alaska Street, Brad Street, Sandell Street and Wooton Street, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth intend to make an Order the effect of which would be to temporarily ban vehicles and pedestrians from entering:-
(a) Alaska Street, the whole length;
(b) Brad Street, between Cornwall Road and Greet Street; (c) Cornwall Road, between Whittlesey Street and The Cut; (d) Exton Street, between Secker Street and Cornwall Road; (e) Roupell Street between Theed Street and Cornwall Road; (f) Sandell
2. Alternative routes for vehicles and pedestrians affected by
closures
would be
Cut, Waterloo Road, Exton Street, Secker Street and Cornwall Road, (b) Cornwall Road, Stamford Street, Waterloo Road, Stamford Street and (c) Roupell Street, Hatfields, Stamford Street and Waterloo Road. Access will be maintained for residents and business as directed by the appropriate advanced signage.
3. Whenever the ban referred to in paragraph 1(b) applies, the one-way systems for vehicles in Roupell Street would be suspended.
4. The bans would only have effect at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing and covering of the appropriate traffic signs and they would not apply to any vehicle or person connected with the filming.
5. The Order would come into force on 16th November 2024 and would continue in force for a maximum duration of 1 day or until he filming is completed whichever is the sooner. In practice it is anticipated that the filming would take place between 8 pm and Midnight on 16th November 2024 but if it is deemed necessary the filming may also take place at other times during that day. Dated 1st November 2024 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH
SCHOOL STREETS SCHEME - EXPERIMENTAL ROAD CLOSURES AND PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE ZONE
AYTOUN PLACE, AYTOUN ROAD, KNOWLE CLOSE, LINGHAM STREET (PART), RUMSEY ROAD, STOCKWELL PARK ROAD (PART), AND VICTORIA RISE.
[NOTE: This notice is about the introduction of an experimental school streets scheme in roads adjacent to Macaulay Primary School, St. Andrews Primary School, and St. Helens Primary School. The part-time closure of 8.15am to 9.15am and 2.45pm to 3.45pm Mondays to Fridays, during school term-time. Objections to this being continued on a permanent basis may be made, as well as any other comments – see paragraph 6].
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth on 29 October 2024 made the Lambeth (Prescribed Routes) (No. 6) Experimental Traffic Order 2024 under section 9 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. The Order will come into force on 11 November 2024.
2. The general effect of the Order will be to introduce a ban on motor vehicles except permit holders during term-time from 8.15am to 9.15am and 2.45pm to 3.45pm Monday to Fridays from entering (a) Aytoun Place, (b) Aytoun Road, (c) Knowle Close, (d) Lingham Street, between the junctions of Crossford Street and Landor Road, (e) Rumsey Road, (f) Stockwell Park Road, between the junctions of Sidney Road and Rumsey Road, and (g) Victoria Rise. Any vehicle that is already in those length of roads listed in paragraph 2 before the pedestrian and cycle zone commences will be permitted to leave.
3. Where it appears essential for certain purposes, the Council’s Assistant Director of Infrastructure, Environment, Public Realm & Climate Change Delivery, or any person authorised by him, may modify, or suspend any of the Orders or any of their provisions under section 10(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.
4. A copy of each of the Orders and other documents giving detailed particulars about them are available for inspection online at: https://streets.appyway.com/lambeth or www.lambeth.gov.uk/traffic-management-orders and at the offices of Lambeth Council’s Parking and Enforcement Group (Parking, Network Management & Fleet), 3rd Floor, Civic Centre, 6 Brixton Hill, London SW2 1EG, between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm on Mondays to Fridays inclusive (except on bank/public holidays), until the Orders cease to have effect. To arrange an inspection please email: Trafficorders@lambeth.gov.uk
5. The Council will consider in due course whether the provisions of the Order should be continued in force indefinitely by means of a permanent Order made under section 6 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. Any person may object to the making of the permanent Order within a period of 6 months beginning with the date on which the experimental Order comes into force or, if the Order is varied by another Order or modified pursuant to section 10(2) of the 1984 Act, beginning with the date on which the variation or modification or the latest variation or modification comes into force. Any such objection must be made in writing and must state the grounds on which it is made and be sent to Roddy Williams, Parking and Enforcement Group (Resident Services), London Borough of Lambeth, PO Box 80771, London, SW29QQ (emails sent to rwilliams@lambeth.gov.uk are acceptable). Any objection may be communicated to, or be seen by, other persons who may have an interest in this matter.
6. If any person wishes to question the validity of the Order or of any of its provisions on the grounds that it or they are not within the powers conferred by the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, or that any requirement of that Act or of any instrument made under that Act has not been complied with, that person may, within 6 weeks from the date on which the Order is made, apply for the purpose to the High Court.
Dated 1 November 2024 Ben Stevens Highways Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14 TEMPORARY TRAFFIC RESTRICTIONS – NORWOOD ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable Network Rail to carry out a bridge inspection, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth, with the agreement of Transport for London, have made an Order the effect of which will be to temporarily ban vehicles proceeding on Norwood Road from turning into Leigham Vale.
2. An alternative route for vehicles affected by the ban will be available via Norwood Road, South Circular Road, Christchurch Road, Streatham Hill, Leigham Court Road, Knollys Road and Leigham Vale.
3. The ban will only apply at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
4. The Order will come into force on 5th November 2024 and will continue in force for a maximum duration of 2 months (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. In practice, it is anticipated that the works will take place between 10 pm on 5th November and 5 am on 6th November 2024, but if the works cannot be carried out or completed during that time then the Order may have effect at subsequent times within the maximum period of 2 months.
Dated 1st November 2024
Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC AND PARKING RESTRICTIONS – VOSS COURT
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable new water main connection works to be carried out safely, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth have made an order the effect of which will be to temporarily ban vehicles:(a) from entering Voss Court, the whole length (access for residents will be maintained); (b) waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading and unloading a vehicle) at any time in that length of Voss Court which lies between No. 2 Voss Court and No. 12 Voss Court (both sides).
2. Alternative routes for vehicles affected by the closure referred to in paragraph 1(a) above will be available via (i) Streatham High Road, Baldry Gardens, Braxted Park, Streatham Common South; and (ii) Streatham High Road, Streatham Common South.
3. The bans will only apply at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
4. The order will come into force on 11th November 2024 and will continue for a maximum duration of 1 month (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the earlier. In practice it is anticipated that the order will only have effect between 11th and 14th November 2024, but if the works cannot be carried out or completed during that time then the Order may have effect on subsequent days within the maximum duration of 1 month.
Dated 1st November 2024 Ben Stevens Highways Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14 TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE – BEDFORD ROAD AND LANDOR ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that to enable gas mains and repairs works to be carried, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth, have made an order the effect of which will be to temporarily ban vehicles from entering Bedford Road at its junction with Clapham High Street and its junction with Landor Road, and Landor Road at its junction with Bedford Road.
2. Alternative routes for affected vehicles would be via:(a) Clapham High Street, Clapham Park Road and Acre Lane; or (b) Stockwell Road, Stockwell Park Walk, Brixton Road, Effra Road, St. Matthew’s Road, Brixton Road and Acre Lane.
3. The restrictions will only apply at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
4. The Order will come into force on 1st November 2024 and will continue for a maximum duration of 1 month or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner.
Dated 1st November 2024 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC AND AT ANY TIME PARKING, WAITING AND LOADING RESTRICTIONS VARIOUS ROADS FOR PLANNED MAINTENANCE
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable planned footway maintenance works to be carried out, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth have made an order the effect of which will be to temporarily:-
(a) ban vehicles from parking or waiting (including waiting for the purpose of loading or unloading a vehicle) at any time in the roads or lengths of road specified in the Schedule to this notice; (b) ban vehicles proceeding in Woodleigh Gardens from turning left into Leigham Avenue.
2. The bans will only apply at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
3. The order will come into force on 14th November 2024 and will continue for a maximum duration of 12 months (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the earlier.
Dated 1st November 2024 Ben Stevens Highways Network Manager SCHEDULE
(i) Churchmore Road, both sides, between Streatham Vale and Helmsdale Road; (ii) Croxted Road, the west and south-west side, between Thurlow Park Road and Dalkeith Road; (iii) Guildersfield Road, both sides, between No. 2 Guildersfield Road and Ellison Road; (iv) Leigham Avenue, the south-west side, between a point 19.3 metres north-west of the north-western
of
10 Leigham Avenue and a point 6 metres south-west
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC AND PARKING RESTRICTIONS – CARVER ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable British Telecom to carry out repair and maintenance works, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth, with the agreement of the London Borough of Southwark, have made an Order the effect of which will be to temporarily ban vehicles from entering that length of Carver Road which lies between Herne Hill and No. 157 Carver Road.
2. Alternative routes for affected vehicles will be available via (a) Carver Road, Half Moon Lane, Warmington Road, Hollingbourne Road and Herne Hill; and; (b) Herne Hill, Half Moon Lane and Carver Road.
3. The ban will only apply at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
4. The Order will come into force on 12th November 2024 and continue in force for a maximum duration of 1 month (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. In practice, it is anticipated that the works will take place on 12th November 2024 between 9.30 am and 3.30 pm, but if the works cannot be carried out or completed during that time then the Order may have effect at subsequent times within the maximum period of 1 month.
Dated 1st November 2024
Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 16A TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE FOR FILMING IN AQUINAS STREET, COIN STREET AND DUCHY STREET.
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable filming to take place in Aquinas Street, Coin Street and Duchy Street, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth, subject to the agreement of Transport for London, intend to make an Order the effect of which would be to temporarily ban vehicles and pedestrians from entering Aquinas Street, Coin Street, and Duchy Street.
2. Access would be maintained for residents and business as directed by the appropriate advanced signage.
3. The bans would only have effect at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs and they would not apply to any vehicle or person connected with the filming.
4. The Order would come in to force on 16th November 2024 and continue for a maximum duration of 1 day or until the filming is completed whichever is the sooner. In practice it is anticipated that the Order would only have effect from 8 am on 16th November 2024 until 10 am on 17th November 2024 but if the filming cannot be carried out or completed during that time the Order may have also affect at other times within the maximum period of 1 day.
Dated 1st November 2024 Ben Stevens Highways Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH
Notice Under The Town and Country Planning Acts
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council is considering applications as set out below under the following categories; FUL – Full Applications
Listed Building ADV
Advertisement VOC
Variation of Conditions RG3 - 24/02810/RG3
Written representations should be made within three weeks of the date of this advertisement to the Director of Planning, PO Box 734, Winchester SO23 5DG. Any comments made are open to inspection by the public and in the event of an appeal may be referred to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government. Confidential comments cannot be taken into account in determining an application.
Application plans can be viewed online at www.lambeth.gov.uk/searchplanningapps – search using the reference number at the end of each application listing.
195 Amesbury Avenue London Lambeth SW2 3BJ Erection of single storey ground floor side extension and extension of existing rear dormer together with the installlation of 1 rooflight to the front roofslope and 2 rooflights to the rear roofslope. 24/03085/FUL
1E Becondale Road London SE19 1QJ Erection of a first floor extension. 24/03143/FUL
Caton Mansions 27 Streatham High Road London SW16 1DT Retrospective application for the retention of the single storey mansard roof extension, including the three self-contained flats (Use Class C3) within it, alongside remedial works on other sections of the building, including: removal of the existing roof level lift overrun; alterations to the building's external fabric to include modifications to the stepped parapet, repairs to the
reinstatement of the external
abutted, repair of beams
recycling
24/03169/FUL
225 Streatham High Road London Lambeth SW16 6EN Reconfiguration of
(Retaining Use Class E at lower and part ground floor). 24/03053/FUL
3 Central Parade Streatham High Road London SW16 1HT Variation of Condition 9 (Operation Hours) of planning permission 21/00228/FUL Change of Use of ground floor from Retail (Use Class E)
alterations) granted on 28.05.2021
Variation sought: Removal of condition 9 to allow 24 hour operation 24/02989/VOC 23 Ufford Street London Lambeth SE1 8QD Erection of a single storey rear ground floor infill extension together with loft conversion and the installation of 3 rooflights 24/02992/FUL
53 The Chase London Lambeth SW4 0NP Demolition of two sections of brick boundary wall and reconstruction of the wall. 24/03022/FUL
1 Arodene Road London SW2 2BG Erection of a garden studio outbuilding to the rear of the garden with photovolaic panels to the roof. 24/02966/FUL
709 Wandsworth Road London Lambeth SW8 3JF Erection of single storey ground floor side extension and removal of existing rear chimney stack together with the installation of a first floor side window and rooflight. 24/02871/FUL
33 Albert Square London SW8 1BZ Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) of planning permission 22/02975/FUL (Erection of a sunken 2-storey rear extension and a sunken 2-storey side extension plus minor internal alteration), granted on 02.12.2022. Variation sought: To vary the list of approved plans to reflect changes to windows.
(Associated Listed Building application: 24/03278/LB) 24/02435/VOC
39 Copley Park London Lambeth SW16 3DB Replacement of front windows with double glazed windows, the repair of roof tiles, and rendering all elevations, plus the installation of additional roof lights. 24/03024/FUL
33 Albert Square London SW8 1BZ Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) under Section 19 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 following a grant of Listed Building Consent ref. 22/02976/LB (Erection of a sunken 2-storey rear extension and a sunken 2-storey side extension plus minor internal alteration), granted on 02.12.2022.
Variation sought: To vary the list of approved plans to reflect changes to windows.
(Associated planning application: 24/02435/VOC) 24/03278/LB
203 Brixton Road London Lambeth SW9 6LP Replacement of
with
sash/casement
(Please note: The reference
for this Listed Building Consent application is 24/02811/LB but there is also an associated application for Full Planning Permission related to these works with reference number: 24/02810/RG3). 24/02811/LB
Dated this Friday 1st November 2024
Photo by Dave Anderson
cLarke fits for fish
By Sports Reporter
millwall lionesses made it three wins in a row with a 6-1 victory against haywards heath Town in the l&seRwFl Premier Division last weekend.
Ted Jones’ side are now five unbeaten after their latest win on the road.
Millwall started strongly and were inches away after Chloe Francis’ effort went just wide.
The Lionesses did take the lead, however, after ten minutes as Ciara Watling finished calmly from an excellent delivery by new signing Esme Johnson.
It was two just after the half-hour mark as Lucy Jellett rounded the goalkeeper to score her first of the campaign.
Just before the half-time whistle, Millwall added another, Watling tucking away an effort from close range.
Three-in-arow for ajay ashanike’s side
By John Kelly
Kesna ClaRKe scored the only goal of the game against sutton athletic at st Paul’s last weekend as Fisher reeled off a third successive sCeFl Premier Division win and fourth in all competitions.
Courtney Barrington went close
By Georgia Garnett
soUThwaRK aThleTiCs Club had a strong start to their crosscountry season at the first metropolitan Cross Country league meet of 2024-2025.
Yemane Gdey led the way on the men’s side with his 46th-place finish while Megan Catley-Davies earned the top spot for the women in 38th.
Club chair Mat Barber said: “It was a really good race, we had a great turnout with a women’s team and a men’s team and it’s onwards and upwards from here.”
The club stands third in both the men’s and women’s senior second divisions of the Metropolitan Cross Country League after the first race of the campaign at Claybury in North East London earlier this month.
Barber explained how the club attracted new athletes.
“We’ve been able to adapt to allow anybody to take part no matter their ability, we’ve worked really hard to make sure we’re welcoming to people,” Barber said.
“The track is a great safe environment to really push yourself, so I really do think we’re a serious club but a friendly one at the same time.”
The club, which trains at Southwark Athletic Park in Surrey Quays, offers training and competitive
before Ed Sata found Clarke who fired home from fifteen yards in the 54th minute.
Fisher goalkeeper Isaac Ogunseri made a superb double-save to keep Ajay Ashanike’s hosts in front as the visitors wondered how they hadn’t equalised.
The Fish responded to that scare by pushing for a second but they were
denied it when Jake Lovell’s effort hit the post.
Substitute Billy Brown dragged his shot wide and then Sutton were reduced to ten men after England Kurti picked up two bookings.
Fisher are fourth in the table with 25 points from fifteen games.
The Rotherhithe side are at Bearstead (White Horse Lane, ME15
8RG) in the league this Saturday at 3pm.
Meanwhile, Dulwich Hamlet are out of the FA Trophy after losing 5-4 on penalties to Hashtag United after a 1-1 draw at Champion Hill.
Hakan Hayrettin’s side host Wingate and Finchley in the Isthmian League Premier Division this Saturday at 3pm.
southWark athLetics make strong start to cross-country season
The hosts pulled one back after the restart after a delivery into the box wasn’t properly cleared.
Millwall continued their attacking drive though and added a fourth as Johnson calmly scored from close range.
Maisie Joyce added Millwall’s fifth with fifteen minutes remaining as she headed home a Chloe Francis cross.
It was six of the best when Jellett applied pressure to the hosts’ stopper whose clearance fell to Francis who stayed composed to clip the ball into the back of the net from 30 yards.
It was the first time since October 2022 that Millwall had won three league wins away from home.
It was also the first time Millwall had scored six away from home in a league fixture since September 2022 when they beat Dulwich Hamlet 6-2 at Champion Hill.
Dubois-AJ duel in serious doubt
opportunities in distance running, sprints, jumps and throws for athletes of all abilities.
They pride themselves on being a welcome space for all, regardless of athletic ability.
The club rebranded from London City Athletics to Southwark Athletics last autumn in order to have an identity that better represented the community that it serves.
Barber added: “People see London City and it’s unclear where London
City is - it didn’t relate to people who are actually in the local area.
“We’re training at Southwark Athletics Track in Southwark Park, a lot of the people who are members live in Southwark.
“Emotionally we just feel more connected with it, it’s just that connection to the place that we thought we should highlight.”
The club remains open to new members, with taster sessions running on Tuesdays and Thursdays
at 7pm for £6.
By John Kelly
Daniel DUBois’ expected February rematch with anthony Joshua is in doubt after eddie hearn said it might be too quick a turnaround.
Greenwich’s Dubois knocked out Joshua at Wembley Stadium in September.
IBF world heavyweight champion Dubois’ promoter Frank Warren said, "I'd have that in a heartbeat”. He added: "He is the champion and it'll be done in his terms.
"Daniel will defend his title in February and if it's not Joshua then it'll be against somebody who is ranked in the top five."
Barber said: “Don’t be put off by the fact that we’re an athletics club, don’t be put off by the fact we’re on track.
"We’re open to everybody no matter what age or ability and they will find several people of equal ability to them that they can work with and get better with.
“That’s one of the key parts of joining a club, you develop with other people rather than being on your own.”
"Our concern at the moment is just timing," Hearn said on Sky Sports. "You've got a few little niggles, you get them looked at and then you can't punch again for four, five weeks. If we're going to fight him in February, we need to start camp in about three weeks' time. It's quite a fast turnaround.
"Ideally we'd like to return around May time. It does feel as though it's coming on quite quickly.
"From a body perspective we could probably do with a little bit more time ideally. Sometimes it's not ideal and you just go for it. But we just need to decide are we going to be ready.
"[Joshua] has told me categorically, 'I want the rematch’. But it's just a case of whether he's going to be ready for February and that's something they're going to have to decide.
"It's not ruled out. But we do appreciate it's a fast turnaround."
Kesna Clarke fi res home
Southwark Athletics Club
QPR pull off rope-a-dope
By John Kelly
QUeens PaRK Rangers used the ropes to avoid a knock-out blow as they held big-punching Burnley to a 0-0 draw at Turf moor last weekend.
The Clarets had three-quarters of the possession and 22 efforts on goal as home boss Scott Parker said the game was like a “boxing match” destined to be stopped in the later rounds.
Marti Cifuentes’ side, however, limited Burnley to just four of those attempts on target to claim their first clean sheet of the campaign in their fifteenth game in all competitions.
Connor Roberts hit the woodwork, before Millwall loanee Zian Flemming and Josh Laurent also went close to making a breakthrough.
QPR had two attempts on goal but none on target as Paul Smyth clipped the bar early on.
Goalkeeper Paul Nardi and centre-backs Steve Cook and Jake Clarke-Salter led an outstanding rearguard action as the visitors also survived sixteen corners.
QPR are 23rd, three points from safety, while Burnley are second, five points behind Sunderland.
"It's a very important point for us because of the situation and the last 48 hours have been really challenging as well, because we lost four important players,” Cifuentes said.
"Sometimes when you're in that sort of position in the table, it feels like everything is happening against you. In the circumstances I'm really pleased about the way the guys worked and fought for the badge and for the club.
"Burnley have just come from the Premier League, obviously they have a lot of quality and individual talent. We understood it was very important to be patient and find our moments in the game.
"I'm pleased about the clean sheet because it was our first one. It was very important not to concede."
Parker said: "Today was a boxing match that was always probably going to end in the tenth or eleventh round and it didn't materialise for us.
"We jabbed and jabbed away and we beat them up and they've come out the ring with scars and bruises along the way and they've managed to hold on in there.
"We've knocked on the door for the whole 96 minutes and reduced them to practically nothing. The game was played on probably half the pitch today.
"We just fell a bit short. There are parts where we can be better – 22 shots and only four on target – but we'll keep moving and progressing."
QPR host Sunderland on Saturday at 3pm.
Striker’s goal secures first win as boss says no concern over job paLace get their phiL
By Paul Green at Selhurst Park
JeaN-PhiliPPe mateta secured Crystal Palace a vital 1-0 over spurs to lift them out of the relegation zone.
The Eagles went into the London derby still without a Premier League victory to their name, a run of form which had put manager Oliver Glasner under mounting pressure.
Mateta grabbed what proved to be the decisive strike in the 31st minute when he coolly slotted home from close range after Daniel Munoz’s cross was knocked on by Eberechi Eze into his path.
Other than a couple of fine stops by Dean Henderson to deny James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski either side of the break, Palace were rarely troubled by the north
Londoners and deservedly claimed all three points.
Asked if the result - a first victory in nine league games - had saved his job, Glasner replied: “I don’t think so. I always felt quite comfortable with my job.
“I’ve always been very close to my sporting director and to my chairman and so I wasn’t really concerned about my job.
“I think all our performances were okay but maybe we missed a little bit as a team what we showed today.
“We showed this courage, we showed the intensity, we showed the bravery how we pressed them, the intensity and maybe this was what a little bit what we were missing.
“Today all the credit to the players how they dealt with the situation because everyone was asked, ‘no win, no win, no
win’, and they stayed cool.
“They were in a good mood and we had a very good training week. That’s why we are all very happy with today.”
Eze and Mateta caused Spurs plenty of problems, not only with the goal which came after Spurs attempted to play their way out from the back.
The Palace boss said: “Of course they are important for us but I mention it every time, all of this season and last season.
“When we see the goal we scored, we press in their box and then our rightwing presses [Micky] van de Ven. This is courage, intensity and forced them into a mistake.”
Glasner added: “It was a team effort.
When we work that hard as a team, when everybody does his job with this passion,
this intensity usually the attackers get the reward because they are the guys who score.
“Also we had a clean sheet today. Dean Henderson made two great saves.”
It was a busy afternoon for Eze, who saw a goal struck out for offside and then had a penalty claim ignored.
Glasner said: “We were a little bit unlucky when that goal was disallowed because it was a few inches offside.
“I think it was a penalty because Eberechi was free to take the finish. If he has a finish inside the box, he takes it. Why should he lay down in this situation?”
The Eagles were in action against Aston Villa in the last sixteen of the EFL Cup on Wednesday. Go too southlondon.co.uk for the reaction.
Charlton get late God-send at packed Valley
By Georgia Garnett at The Valley
naThan Jones hailed Charlton athletic’s “character” after matty godden’s penalty deep into stoppage-time rescued a 2-2 draw with Wrexham in front of the biggest Valley crowd in almost three years.
Conor Coventry's own goal gave Wrexham an early lead before Macaulay Gillesphey equalised with a header to leave it 1-1 at half-time.
Andy Cannon scored a goal that looked like it would win the game for Wrexham until Godden converted from the spot in the 97th-minute to salvage a deserved point for the Addicks.
“We’ve played pretty much all the top teams [in League One] and we haven’t been beaten, so it shows we’ve got something, but we’ve just got to be a bit more consistent, a little bit more aggressive, a little more fluid in what
we do,” Jones said.
“In spells, we were good, in spells we weren’t, but we showed a lot of character and kept going right to the end.
“It feels like a point gained today compared to Tuesday which was two points dropped.”
Charlton had to overcome an injury to Tennai Watson in the fourth minute, continuing a theme in their season that has seen eight major injuries.
Coventry’s own goal put the Addicks in a hole sixteen minutes in.
Charlton responded seven minutes later as Gillesphey looped a header in from Josh Edwards’ cross.
A rare referee substitution after an injury to Sam Purkiss meant contributed to ten minutes of addedtime in the first half.
Luke Berry and Coventry had efforts towards the end of the opening period but neither was able to force the hosts
in front.
The second half started with a shot from Tyreece Campbell in the 48th minute but Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo made the save.
Will Mannion made two quick saves on 50 minutes to deny Wrexham’s Ollie Rathbone.
Berry and Godden had two attempts on goal in quick succession minutes later.
Substitute Terry Taylor forced another save from Okonkwo in the 69th minute.
Cannon came on for Wrexham in the 70th minute and made an immediate impact, netting the visitors’ second goal of the afternoon just over a minute later.
Alex Mitchell and Miles Leaburn had missed chances to level before Max Cleworth was penalised for handball to give Charlton a penalty in the final moments of the game.
Godden slammed it down the middle as the Addicks drew a third straight
game in League One.
Danny Hylton came on for his debut in the 81st minute - becoming the 1,000th player to represent Charlton.
Jones said: “I thought he came in and affected the football game.
"I thought any time they ran into him Wrexham couldn't clear the ball because he used his body well."
A Valley attendance of 24,792 was the biggest since 24,886 saw a 2-0 League One win over Cambridge United in December 2021.
Edwards said: “It was the fullest I’ve seen The Valley, it was a great experience to be able to play in.
“Hopefully we’ve managed to convince some of them to come back for our next match.”
Charlton are eleventh in the table with nineteen points from thirteen games.
The Addicks face Southend United in the FA Cup first round at Roots Hall this Saturday at 3pm.
Jean-Philippe Mateta (Right) celebrates with his team-mates
© Action Plus
de norre torments sWansea again
eXcLuSive
By Will Scott
millwall miDFielDeR Casper
De norre revealed his decisive goal against swansea City on saturday was an “instinctive” finish.
De Norre scored the games’ only goal in the 90th minute to ensure the Lions left south Wales with a 1-0 win and three points, and it was a well-taken effort.
Winger Femi Azeez intercepted Swansea goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux’s wayward pass, drove down the right wing and then cut the ball back to De Norre, who was making a late run into the box. The Belgian ghosted in between two Swansea defenders and curled the ball into the left-hand corner from the edge of the six-yard box.
De Norre was clearly delighted to score, as evidenced by his enthusiastic celebrations after, and sat down with our paper to tell us more.
“Obviously very happy to score a goal, and it also meant we got three points on Saturday and back-to-back wins,” De Norre said. “So a really good feeling.
“When I saw him [Azeez] take the touch with his head and he had a good run to the ball, I already saw the space between the two defenders.
“So, I was like hopefully he saw it because I'm going to time it to go there at the right moment. That’s what we did. He played the perfect ball and I finished and it was a good goal I think.”
Azeez’s interception, run and cross all happened in a matter of seconds, giving De Norre little time to think about placing the ball.
“It all goes so quick, you’re not thinking about what I'm going to do, it’s just natural,” De Norre said. “I didn't think, oh where am I going to put it.”
“It was just like you get the ball from there and just cross it the other way. It's not that I knew where I was going to shoot just before the ball came, it was just instinct.”
De Norre was given a rest against Swansea after starting the two previous games, and only came onto the pitch with just under 20 minutes left to play.
He typically plays as a central
The Belgian midfi elder on how he scored another winner in south Wales
midfielder, however Millwall head coach Neil Harris played him slightly further up the pitch.
“He was saying to me go play as a number ten, see how it goes and maybe you can change [the game] … just go and do your thing,” De Norre said. It was a decision made in part due to de Norre’s history against Swansea. Strangely enough, the only other goal he’s scored for the Lions was in Millwall’s 1-0 win away from home against Swansea on the last day of the 2023-24 season.
“When we played there last year, it was also a late run into the box and that was the same thing basically,” De Norre
said. “So it was just the opportunities were there and maybe in other games they're not there.
“It’s something I have to try and do more and I'm also trying to do more this year: to come late into the box. In Belgium when I scored my goals, it was always by running late into the box and then the one touch finish.
“So I think it's something I can do and something I can help the team with. I have to score more goals. I'm not going to score ten goals this season, but it would be nice if I could score three, four, five goals every year.”
“This was a good start and hopefully there will be a few more this year.”
Saturday’s win capped off an excellent week for the Lions. They also beat Plymouth Argyle 1-0 last Wednesday, meaning for the first time this season they won two games on the bounce.
They now sit in tenth, only three points off the playoffs after a tricky start to the season.
“It's not been a rewarding start [to the season],” De Norre said. “I think we deserve more.
“On the other hand last week against Swansea I think we probably didn't deserve to win, but it comes around again. We lost against Luton at home where we maybe should have won
that, we got the points back.
“I think it's been a really good week. To get seven points out of three games, that was huge. All of a sudden you go from being 21st in the league to tenth, three points out of the playoffs. It goes so quick in this league if you get backto-back wins.
“The home games now against Burnley and Leeds will be two really nice games, but it’s also a little bit more relaxing going into it, knowing you got the points last week. In those games, you can go fully now and you don't have to think, maybe [we need] a point now. You can go for a win and that's good.”
cheek keeps cooL in chaos to earn bromLey point
By Mitchell Hall at Hayes Lane
TheRe was a chaotic end to the game at hayes lane last weekend as Bromley equalised in stoppagetime to secure a 1-1 draw against Barrow.
Barrow took the lead through Gerard Garner 20 minutes in and held on until the 91st minute, when a controversial penalty decision resulted in visiting manager Stephen Clemence being sent off for protesting before Michael Cheek levelled for the Ravens from the spot. The win made it four points from a possible six for Andy Woodman’s side after they had gone nine League Two
games without victory before beating Doncaster Rovers 1-0 the previous Tuesday. The Ravens moved up to eighteenth in the table with this point.
Katia Kouyate crossed to set up Garner who swept the ball to the far post beyond the fingertips of goalkeeper Grant Smith.
Barrow should have capitalised further on a relentless spell of pressure, especially when a 32ndminute corner fell to Theo Vassell on the far edge of the six-yard box. He seemed sure to score, but somehow hit the shot way over the bar, before pounding the ground beneath his feet in frustration.
Manager Woodman clearly wasn’t
pleased with what he had seen from his side. He made a triple substitution at half-time, taking off both starting strikers, Olufela Olomola and Levi Amantchi, and replacing them with talisman Cheek and Louis Dennis.
Carl Jenkinson was introduced for his home debut in the 75th minute and his presence helped his side to dominate possession and push forward.
Bromley had a flurry of chances but luck didn’t seem to be with them as time ticked down. That was until the 87th minute when Cheek headed towards the back post where Omar Sowunmi nodded his effort over but referee Daniel Middleton had seen a handball by Kian Spence in the melee
of limbs in the area.
Clemence’s protests earned him a red card and a long trudge across the pitch towards the changing rooms.
Meanwhile, the pressure of the bizarre circumstances, which had gone on long enough to tick the game past the 90-minute mark, had been building on Cheek. He finally had the chance to spot the ball and step up to take his penalty, which he smashed emphatically into the top-left corner to level.
Woodman praised the returning Cheek and highlighted the depth of options off the bench.
He said: “You wouldn’t want any other player stepping up to take that
penalty, he was cool as ice and hit the back of the net like he does.
“The subs managed to change the game and make a difference.
“Let’s be honest, Bromley Football Club bringing Carl Jenkinson on off the bench, it’s a blessing for us.”
Woodman refused to get ahead of himself after the last two games. He added: “We’ve still got work to do. The problem we have is that the minute we think we’re there, we start to become unstuck a bit.”
Bromley will have a break from league action next Saturday when they take on National League side Rochdale away in the first round of the FA Cup. Kick-off is 3pm.
Casper De Norre celebrates in front of the away end at Swansea.com Stadium
Photo by Millwall FC
Sport
esse does it for paLace
eagles line up swoop for brilliant Millwall winger
By John Kelly
Crystal PalaCe are reportedly targeting a multimillion pound January move for millwall winger Romain esse. Esse, 19, has been outstanding for the Lions this season, scoring four goals in fourteen appearances in all competitions.
The Lambeth-born attacker signed a new long-term contract in August and it is understood to contain a release clause.
Esse has been fouled more times (31) than any other right-winger in the Championship this season and he has also won more duels (93) than
any other player in his position in the second tier.
Eagles sporting director Dougie Freedman has been to watch Esse as Palace weigh up a move in the winter transfer window.
Palace have had success in recruiting from the Championship in recent seasons. They signed Adam Wharton from Blackburn Rovers, Michael Elise from Reading and Eberechi Eze - who came through the Lions’ academy - from Queens Park Rangers. Olise, who plays in the same position as Esse, left for Bayern Munich for £60million in the summer.
Esse made his Millwall debut as a seventeen-year-old in a 2-0 win at
CLARKE FITS FOR
FISH
Watford on Boxing Day in 2022. He has made 54 appearances and scored six goals for the Lions.
Former Millwall manager Gary Rowett gave Esse his debut and has no doubt he will attract attention this season.
“Premier League clubs will be looking at him very, very closely,” Rowett said recently on Sky Sports.
“He has got so much ability. Honestly, when he first came into the team a couple of years ago, he was one of those kids you look at and you think, ‘wow’.
“I don’t think he’s put that into consistent performances on the pitch just yet, but if he does, he’s a superstar in the making. He has got absolutely everything.
“I’m expecting big things this season, he’s started it well, scoring a couple of goals, but he just needs a run of games. That’s like any young player, when he plays badly, he needs to stay in the team if he can. I know it’s difficult for a manager, but he’s got so much quality, and I’ve been really impressed with him.
“He does everything right in training, he’s got such a lovely attitude. He’s the first one out for training, shaking everyone’s hands, he’s so respectful, and he’s got that little bit of X-Factor.
“For Millwall, sometimes it’s easy to pick players who are going to work hard, that will give the fans what they want, but Esse can give you something different.”
Miles ahead as Addicks through
By John Kelly
naThan Jones said Charlton athletic were “excellent” in their 3-0 win over Chelsea under-21s in the eFl Trophy at The Valley on Tuesday night.
Miles Leaburn scored a brace either side of the break before Tyrece Campbell added the third in stoppage-time.
The Addicks are through to the round of 32 with one game - against Bromley - to spare.
The Blues have spent big on young players in recent years. One of their attackers, Deivid Washington, cost £14million.
Only Charlton captain Greg Docherty started from the side that drew 2-2 with Wrexham last weekend.
“I thought we were excellent,” Jones said. “They were a very young, expensively assembled, talented team. If we allowed them time and space, they could have embarrassed us. We made a big point about dictating and going after them and we did.
“Ash [Maynard-Brewer] made three great saves, but we could have had six or seven.
“It was a really good and interesting game. I am really pleased, out of possession I thought we were outstanding. If we do the basics right, we win that comfortably, we had to earn that and we did.
“I like this competition as it gives you different tests, but it also shows that your squad is in a good place.”
Jones had special praise for 20-year-old former Chelsea academy player Leaburn.
Jones said: “He is gaining more rhythm from game-time, minutes and training. He is a big man with wonderful feet, but he has also got to realise he is a big man. We are working on that, he got two goals from being a big man tonight and we like that.
“That’ll do him good. I was really pleased with his energy and pressing, really pleased with him.”
Jones added: “We always have selection headaches. When we have a full squad, we have seven or eight in the stands. Now we are slightly more stretched, it adds competition. If they have taken that opportunity tonight and are ready, then we will put them in. I could have put seven under-21s out tonight, but we have got a squad, and we wanted to win the game.
“We wanted to give people the opportunity that they deserved. A lot of them took their chance tonight. Nothing is won or lost in October, a gruelling six months to come where we will need everyone.”
Romain Esse is one of the best players in his position in the Championship