Southwark News - March 28th 2024

see sport

© Andrew Parsons

Issue 1678

Established: 1987

50p

March 28th 2024

haRRis looks foRWaRd To Wallace’s den ReTuRn

southwarknews.co.uk

tributes pour in for richard taylor - a father who created a legacy to combat knife crime after losing his 10-year-old son Damilola

PlenTy To do This easTeR see pages holiday 14-17 sTaff dismay aT The loss of The Range in suRRey Quays see page 13

legacy of hoPe see page 4

Paying £500 a yeaR foR ‘non eXisTenT concieRge’ see page 12

2 NEWS Contents NEWS Pages 2-13 EASTER Pages 14-17 OPINION Pages 18-19 ARTS Page 21 HISTORY Pages 22-23

council leadeR sees off mcash Bid By fiVe VoTes

By Newsdesk

southwArk’s council leader, cllr kieron williams, has seen off an internal labour challenge within his group - winning a five vote majority of 28 votes to 23 from challenger Cllr James mcAsh. Southwark News exclusively revealed the challenge earlier this month, coming

from the Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, Streets and Clean Air, McAsh. The vote was held on Saturday March 23rd, at Southwark Labour’s Annual General Meeting.

The close call of the vote means Cllr Williams now faces a tricky decision whether to keep Cllr McAsh in the fold, given his support, or remove him from the Cabinet.

Will BBQs come back to Burgess Park?

CLASSIFIED Page 25 PUBLIC NOTICES Pages 26-27 SPORT Pages 29-32

Contact us if you have a story on editor@ southwarknews .co.uk

By Isabel Ramirez the BBQ area in Burgess park, which never reopened after lockdown, was due to be discussed again at a meeting this week.

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In 2011, a permanent barbecue section was created in Burgess Park by Southwark Council, where people could barbecue and gather freely and safely.

Despite the area being well-used and loved by many local people, it closed during lockdown and never reopened.

Over the last few years, community group,

We Walworth, have been working with the council Parks team on the details of how to discuss the future of barbequing in Burgess Park.

The next meeting, which people are invited to attend, was due to will take place yesterday evening (Wednesday 27 March.) The meetings are designed to be collaborative so people have a say on what the space could look like and how it would be managed.

Last summer, we reported on the issue and questioned the council on whether the BBQ area would reopen.

At the time, Councillor Catherine Rose, MILLWALL See sport

Issue 1677

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

Established: 1987

50p

March 21st 2024

southwarknews.co.uk

CRAZY PILE-UP SPARKS OUTRAGE

LIONS’ RISING STAR THRIVING IN LEAGUE TWO PRESSURE

See page 4

See page 15

END OF AN ERA

Century-long journey comes to a close

KING THANKS BERMONDSEY PARK GROUP See page 13

KFC AND NANDO’S AVAILABLE AT NEW FOODBANK

See page 13

EXCLUSIVE

Page 10

ROTHERHITHE’S SIR MICHAEL CAINE TURNS 91

Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Leisure and Parks, said: “We have made the necessary decision to suspend all the fixed barbecue facilities at Burgess Park. This is consistent with disposable BBQs, which are not permitted in any of our parks. We understand that this may disappoint some park visitors, but our unwavering commitment lies in keeping our parks safe during high temperatures, reducing air pollution and minimising harmful waste in Southwark.

“Since the barbecue facilities were put in place over a decade ago, the council’s investment in Burgess Park has allowed us to

create the much-needed extension of the new sports hub. We now need to find a balance between all these important park uses.

“We are working closely with the Walworth community and key park stakeholders to find long-term sustainable solutions. Their input has been invaluable in the extensive consultation carried out so far and we are all aligned in our desire to develop a vision for outdoor eating in Walworth.

“I’m confident that together we will develop a new community-oriented and environmentally considerate facility in the future”.

The southwark news is proud to be the only independent, paid for newspaper in London Southwark News started life as the Bermondsey News in 1987, as an A-4 photocopied sheet of paper and rapidly grew to cover the entire borough and the surrounding area. As the borough grew, so did the newspaper.

It is owned and run by Chris Mullany and Kevin Quinn.

Former reporters for Southwark News, they bought the title in 2002, after the founder Dave Clark died suddenly from cancer four years earlier.

A dedicated team of staff work tirelessly to cover as much of what is going on as possible and strive to ensure that a community-led, independent newspaper can survive and excel in a market dominated by national and multinational media groups.

Follow our social media to be updated on local news

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Southwark News is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry).

We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards and want to make a complaint, please contact 0207 231 5258.

If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit www.ipso.co.uk

NEWS 3

The Rotherhithe residents using a local school’s kitchen to cook for the needy

By Isabel Ramirez A group of Rotherhithe residents is using a school kitchen and giving up their Sundays to serve free meals to the needy.

Thirteen weeks ago, a small group of locals had an idea to cook for people ‘suffering in silence’ and the Rotherhithe Community Kitchen was born.

The organisers said they wanted to prove that you don’t need much to help people.

Abhishek Baloni, one of the volunteers, said: “It started with a small amount of food we prepared for the homeless. And then over the weeks, it’s grown.”

“We were never expecting this to be such a success. Now you see the local people come and they are happy.”

Every Sunday, they pitch up at Peter Hills C of E Primary School ‘at the crack of dawn’ to begin cooking. “We make big pots of rice and curry.”

They explained that aside from being ‘filling’ and affordable, they cook this meal because it stays hot for a long time.

To date, they’ve cooked over 5000 meals and there are now around 40 people who come to help out, including some teachers from the school itself.

In a project designed to bring all cultures together, they are cooking for anyone who needs it.

“The Old Kent Road mosque, Christian charities, St Mungo’s, people from the Canada Estate and elderly people they all come to collect food and some people come on their own,” Abhishek

said.

“It’s not a political place - we want this to be a place where everyone wants to be together. Caring for people and spreading the love.”

Another volunteer, Eleanor Thorn commented: “They’re literally feeding the 5000. The quality of the food is really amazing. Everyone wants to know the recipe.”

This Sunday, (24 March) they hosted a free event for the popular Hindu colour festival - known as Holi - to celebrate colours, love and the start of Spring.

Around one hundred people turned up throughout the day to share food, dance and smear each other with bright-coloured powder - as is tradition.

So far they have been supported by local MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark, Neil Coyle, who said he’s ‘proud’ to have helped set it up: “I’m amazed to see how fast it has grown and how many people it is already helping.

“It is run by a great team and I’m happy to continue supporting them grow and help more local people.”

Despite receiving his support and also the support of a nearby Indian restaurant, Mogul, the initiative is otherwise self-funded by the volunteers.

“To keep it going and make it even bigger we need to register as a charity and then we can accept donations.”

They explained that they hoped to give the money to Surrey Docks Farm and also fund more kitchen appliances.

Abhishek added: “We hope to get a community garden involved too - where we’ll use the produce we have grown for the food we cook.”

Skully is back in Jail Arts 21

4 NEWS

damilola’s dad made iT his mission To aTTend The funeRals of The childRen killed By kniVes © Andrew Parsons

Richard and friend, Eula Clarke

Richard with Power the Fight founder, Ben Lindsay

By Isabel Ramirez triButes poureD in following the passing of Richard taylor, including from a close friend who said the ‘humanitarian’ went to the funeral of ‘nearly every child who died by a gun or a knife.’

By Herbie Russell cAmpAigner richArD taylor, the father of damilola taylor who was killed in peckham in 2000 aged ten, has died.

Richard - Damilola Taylor’s dad - sadly passed away aged 75 on Saturday, March 23, following a long battle with prostate cancer.

He became known after his ten-yearold son, Damilola, was killed in 2000 when he was slashed with broken glass on his way home from Peckham Library.

It was a death that dominated headlines for years and rocked the country.

In May 2001, parents Richard and

Gloria set up the Damilola Taylor Trust in their sons’ memory to campaign against knife crime.

Through the charity, Richard toured schools sharing his heartache and persuading young people away from criminal careers.

Reflecting on his death, a close friend of Richard’s, Eula Clarke, told us: “I have worked with the Trust since 2005 and knew him before that. We used to speak every day.”

Asked of her lasting memory of Richard she said: “Our banter. He became a good friend. Even when he was deteriorating and we could no longer talk on the phone, he would always text me.

“Despite everything he went through, he remained a humanitarian.”

Who Was damilola TayloR?

Damilola Taylor was killed aged ten

The trials that followed Damilola’s death gripped national headlines for years, with his killers finally convicted in 2006.

who was Damilola taylor?

who were his killers?

His killers, brothers Ricky and Danny Preddie, were aged twelve and thirteen at the time.

They were eventually convicted of manslaughter - but only six years later and after three trials.

The troubled youths, who had been

© Met Police

Damilola Taylor, born in Lagos, Nigeria, moved to the UK with his brother, sister and mother in the summer of 2000.

The family had moved to London in search of a better life and treatment for his sister Gbemi who had epilepsy.

At 4.41pm on November 27, 2000, he left Peckham Library having attended an after-school computer club.

These were his last moments. Soon after, he was discovered on a stairwell in a pool of his own blood on the North Peckham Estate.

He’d been slashed with a broken bottle which severed an artery in his left thigh.

He was pronounced dead after being taken to King’s College Hospital.

A trail of blood from the wound in his leg led from the stairwell to Blakes Road where police believed the attack took place.

He was just ten days away from celebrating his 11th birthday when he was killed.

“What we didn’t know before was that Richard attended the funerals of nearly every child who got killed by a gun or knife.”

Back in November, Eula held a memorial event at the House of Lords to mark 23 years since Damilola’s death.

“I didn’t realise how precious our event was before. But I’m so glad we did that.

“Richard came with his other children.”

In terms of the future of the Damilola Taylor Trust, Eula said there was ‘still a need’ for it.

“The crimes are still happening so we can continue to educate everyone on the issues around youth violence.

“The Trust has a double legacy now.”

She added: “He’s at peace he’s out of pain. I’m just glad that I got to know him.”

Ben Lindsay, CEO of Peckham-based anti-youth violence organisation, Power the Fight, commented on the ‘massive loss’ for the charity sector.

“Richard Taylor’s passing is really sad,” he told us.

“He’s been an absolute legend and champion in his attempts to make the issue and cause of violence affecting young people something which is on the radar of politicians, and decisionmakers for over two decades.

“His dignity, his passion, his desire for change is something which will be missed.”

He explained that organisations like

Danny Preddie (left) and his brother Ricky Preddie

in and out of children’s homes, were suspects from the outset.

But despite Operation Seale, a police investigation involving 120 officers, the brothers weren’t even prosecuted during the first trial due to a lack of forensic evidence.

what haPPeneD in court? the First trial

Initially, a group of four people, which didn’t include the Preddie brothers, stood trial.

The four youths - one aged fourteen, two fifteen-year-old brothers and a sixteen-year-old - were charged with murder and assault with intent to rob in June 2001, seven months after Damilola

was killed.

But the prosecution relied heavily on the testimony of a fourteen-yearold named ‘Witness Bromley’ whose accounts were deemed unreliable.

Meanwhile, the defence argued Damilola hadn’t been attacked but had fallen on a broken bottle and bled out.

The prosecution’s case collapsed. Two of the defendants were acquitted on the direction of the judge and the remaining pair were found ‘not guilty’ by the jury.

the seconD trial

The second trial in 2006 saw the Preddie brothers, now aged seventeen and sixteen, and Hassan Jihad, nineteen, charged with murder.

Forensic re-examinations had brought

new evidence to light including a 9mm blood stain on Danny Preddie’s trainer containing fabric fibres from Damilola’s jumper.

Once again, the defence argued Damilola had fallen on the broken glass.

The jury cleared Jihad of all charges on April 3, 2006, but couldn’t decide whether to convict the Preddie brothers of lesser manslaughter charges.

the thirD trial

Two months later, in June 2006, a new trial began with the Preddies accused of manslaughter.

The defence argued forensic evidence could have come from contamination.

The brothers, who it emerged were meant to be under supervision at the

Power the Fight were set up “following in his footsteps.”

Ben added: “To lose such a pioneer for me personally, but also for the organisation is a massive loss for the sector, but at the same time, I truly believe that his legacy will not be forgotten.

“I just hope that the things he has said and pushed and demanded in terms of change - for more peaceful communities is stuff which we will never forget.”

Other tributes on X from local figures included the Southwark branch of the Met police, who posted on X: “We are saddened by the news of the passing of Richard Taylor OBE. His tireless work, undertaken with great diligence and dignity, has been instrumental in making the young people and wider communities of Southwark safer.” - Det. Chief. Superintendent Adjei-Addoh, BCU Commander.

Camberwell and Peckham MP Harriet Harman also shared this message: “So sad to hear this news. RIP Richard Taylor. He never stopped fighting for other children to have the chances his beloved Damilola never got.”

Finally, council leader, Kieron Williams, said: “Deeply sad to hear Richard Taylor has passed away. His work to create opportunity and hope for young people in Southwark and beyond has left a lasting legacy. He will be greatly missed by people across our community #LegacyOfHope”

time of the killing, were convicted of manslaughter.

They were sentenced to eight years in youth custody and given early release in 2010 and 2011.

Ricky Preddie, also known as Ricky Johnson, was later jailed for another four years in 2020 after running over a police officer.

what is Damilola taylor’s leGacy?

After his death, parents Richard and Gloria set up the Damilola Taylor Trust in May 2001 to campaign against knife crime.

Through the charity, Richard toured schools sharing his heartache and persuading young people away from criminal careers.

The Damilola Taylor Centre opened in Peckham in 2002 and still has space for over 100 kids to enjoy sports and youth programmes.

Damilola’s mother Gloria died from a suspected heart attack in 2008, aged 58, after being diagnosed with high blood pressure soon after her son’s death.

In 2009, Richard Taylor was made antiknife crime and youth violence envoy by then-Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

He was awarded an OBE in the 2011 New Year Honours for his services to campaigning for youth charities.

In June last year, Southwark Council announced plans to establish a memorial to Damilola at the centre of the revamped Peckham Square.

The memorial will be just a five-minute walk from another sculpture erected in his memory at his former school, Oliver Goldsmith Primary School in Camberwell.

Richard Taylor died aged 75 following a long battle with prostate cancer, at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woolwich, on Saturday, March 23, 2024.

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6 NEWS Bacon’s College

gaZa PRoTesTeRs ThRoW ‘Blood money’ in council Pensions inVesTmenT RoW Bacon’s College students at Twickenham

Rotherhithe rugby girls play on fabled Twickenham pitch

The protestors outside the council offices and the mocked up ‘blood money (right)

By Isabel Ramirez gAZA protesters chanting and throwing ‘blood-stained’ money with the leader’s face on it interrupted a council meeting last week.

30 members of the public attended the meeting, in relation to the motion and a deputation about this issue. After the members of the public had a chance to express their views, they left and the meeting continued as normal.

“We do not recognise the investment figure being claimed nor is it clear what criteria was used to reach this. We have £4.9m of investments within companies on the United Nations-approved database.

“These are pooled funds which have multiple investors and are not possible to separate from the rest. Our fund managers regularly engage with the companies on the list and report back to us, as investors, on any contentious issues.

“We expect all companies to follow best practice on environmental, social and governance grounds.”

Last year, two Labour-run councils - Leicester and Lancaster - received criticism for ‘boycotting Israeli goods.’ In response, a bill was proposed by Michael Gove which, if passed, would ban public bodies from being able to do this. The bill has not yet passed.

Southwark Council’s investment policy is available here: Agenda Document for Pensions Advisory Panel, 27/09/2023 10:00 (southwarkpensions.co.uk)

rotherhithe schoolgirls tried their hands at rugby during a visit to twickenham - the home of English rugby.

Bacon’s College Year 7s showcased their skills in the 82,000-seater stadium on Thursday, March 14.

Mr Leport, the school’s PE teacher, said it was “fantastic” to see the rugby team play at “such a prestigious venue”.

The day began with a trip to Richmond Rugby Club where the side competed in a touch rugby tournament.

They later visited Twickenham for an event organised by the Rugby Football Union’s Love Rugby initiative - a campaign to get girls into the sport.

This offered them the incredible opportunity to demonstrate their

skills in a competitive but friendly environment on the fabled turf.

The pupils even got to meet England fly-half Amber Reed - winner of the 2014 Women’s Rugby World Cup. School teams from across the country were at the event, allowing the kids to share their passion with other children.

Mr Leport said: “It was fantastic to see our Year 7 girls’ rugby team playing at such a prestigious venue as Twickenham stadium and the event was testament to the growth and inclusivity of the sport.

“Not only did they showcase their skills on the field, but they also represented the school with pride and sportsmanship, making their community proud as they upheld our school values.”

Police investigating ‘London Bridge masturbator’ release image

British Transport Police

The protest, led by Shut BAE Down and the Revolutionary Communist Group, was staged to get Southwark Council to ‘divest millions from its pension fund’ over Israel ties.

They are asking the council to divest £55m from companies including BAE Systems, Boeing and Caterpillar. However, the council said it ‘does not recognise this figure.’

This was just one of the demands put forward by the campaign group to the council.

Others included a ‘denunciation of Israel’s genocide’ and urging them to call for sanctions on Israel.

One campaigner, Alex, spoke to this paper to explain the group’s position.

He mentioned that 45 days after the Russia-Ukraine war began in February 2022, Southwark Council agreed to review its pension fund and ‘divest Russian holdings’ at the earliest opportunity.

Alex said: “The council does have the power to divest its pension fund from

companies complicit in genocide and apartheid, and can also call for sanctions, condemn Israel and so on.”

He said although they make ‘similar demands’ of MPs, they are focusing their attention on Labour councils - who he called ‘hypocritical.’

At the same meeting, Southwark Council put forward a ceasefire motion. The group claimed that this was only done ‘as a result’ of their list of ‘radical demands’ and said that other than this motion, the council ‘avoided discussing Palestine’ all evening.

As a result, they chose to interrupt the meeting by throwing ‘blood-stained’ money with the faces of the council leader Kieron Williams and Labour leader Sir Kier Starmer. The group added: “We aim to target all complicit parties, councils and businesses with the demands of full divestments and sanctions.”

The protesters claim they were ‘forcefully removed’, whilst the council told us the group just left after expressing their views.

A Southwark Council spokesperson said: “On 20 March 2024, Southwark’s Council Assembly unanimously passed a cross-party motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Around

By Herbie Russell

Boy, 16, pleads not guilty to Kacey Clarke murder in Bermondsey

By Herbie Russell a SIXtEEN-yEaR-OLd boy has denied murdering 22-year-old kacey Clarke in Bermondsey on Christmas Eve.

The defendant, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, March 19, charged with murder.

He spoke to confirm his identity and plead not guilty.

A pre-trial review is set to take place on June 18 with the trial beginning on July 15.

Police were called to an address in Bermondsey at around 10pm on December 24, 2023. They had received reports that a woman had suffered a stab injury. Paramedics arrived in less than five minutes and provided first aid but Kacey died at the scene.

Her family have been supported by specially trained officers and asked that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.

Police have released the following image

By Herbie Russell police inVestigAting a public masturbation incident have released an image of a man they’d like to speak to.

A police sniffer dog works at the scene in Bermondsey,

British Transport Police said a man exposed himself and masturbated on board a train between London Bridge and Grove Park station.

A man is said to have boarded the service at London Bridge station at around 9.20am on Sunday, February 4.

He reportedly sat opposite a woman.

She then looked up and allegedly saw he was exposing himself and masturbating while looking at her.

Detectives would like to speak to the man in the image who they believe may have information that could help their investigation.

Those who recognise this man or have any information about the incident can contact of�icers by texting 61016, or by calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 145 of 4 February.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

NEWS 7

Petition to stop Walworth Marks and Spencer closure is launched

By Herbie Russell

DisABleD people have celebrated the opening of a new toilet with hoists and adult-size changing benches at Dulwich park.

The Marks & Spencer shop on Walworth Road

By Herbie Russell ‘upset’ shoppers have launched a campaign to stop the closure of the marks & spencer on walworth road.

The online petition has collected 755 signatures in just two days after being launched on Wednesday, March 22.

The M&S branch which has served customers since 1913, is set to close this summer after a downturn in sales.

The petition, started by Linda Woods, said: “We have read in the local paper Marks & Spencer on Walworth Road is set to close, signalling the end of a shop that has served locals since

1913.

“We are very upset, we don’t want the store to close down.”

M&S retail bosses have only lodged a proposal to close so far but employees are already being informed about transfers to other stores.

The store was opened during the Edwardian Era, just 29 years after the first-ever shop was founded in Leeds and one year before the outbreak of World War I. The shop has a clothing department, bakery plus the usual food offering.

The nearest M&S stores are in Denmark Hill and Brixton but only the latter has a clothing department.

They will now be able to fully enjoy the park, which already has accessible parking, wide flat pathways and a levelaccess cafe.

It’s been made possible after Southwark Council received £120,000 from the government’s Changing Places Fund.

The money has also gone towards a new disabled toilet in the Una Marson Library, Walworth, and upgrades to one at Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre.

After conversations with local stakeholders, including disabled people and carers, Dulwich Park was identified as a priority location for a new Changing Places toilet.

Dulwich Park is also home to Whippersnappers, an inclusive activity provider that recently secured funding from Southwark Council to deliver weekend and school holiday schemes for disabled children and young people over the next three years.

The new Changing Places toilet will ensure children with a range of care needs can access the Whippersnappers schemes.

Cllr Evelyn Akoto, cabinet member for

© Southwark Council

disaBled PeoPle celeBRaTe neW dulWich PaRk ToileT oPening

Cllr Evelyn Akoto (right) has hailed the new toilet health and wellbeing, said: “We know being able to enjoy our beautiful parks and open spaces is so important for people’s health and wellbeing.

“We want to make our parks as accessible to people as possible, and we really hope this will encourage more disabled people and their families or

carers to come and enjoy the loveliness of Dulwich Park.

“Being able to do something as simple as use the toilet comfortably and with dignity should be available to everyone and I am so pleased this is now available to our disabled residents and visitors in Dulwich.”

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8 NEWS

lonDon’s iconic bridges will soon have their very own poet according to a “one of its kind” job advert.

The City Bridge Foundation, which maintains the Tower, London, Southwark, Millennium and Blackfriars crossings, is hiring a “bard with a bent for bridges”.

The lucky candidate, responsible for celebrating the bridges’ history through verse, will be paid £10,000 for sixteen days’ work - equivalent to roughly £3,125 for a five-day week.

Giles Shilson, City Bridge Foundation chairman, said: “The job is, as far as we know, the only one of its kind anywhere and is a way of celebrating our bridges and our funding work, while supporting and promoting poetry as a modern, vibrant, culturally relevant art form.”

The poet-in-residence scheme, launched on World Poetry Day (March 21), will see the successful applicant regularly visit London’s famous bridges to draw inspiration for their work.

The role is open to published poets of any style who either live in London or can regularly travel to the capital to central London and visit some of the charities funded by City Bridge Foundation.

The charity, which awards over £30 million a year to projects across London, said the new role is of no cost to the taxpayer.

The winner will likely draw inspiration from past portrayals of the iconic crossings, including the world-famous nursery rhyme London

City Bridge Foundation

cuRRenT affaiRs: Thames BRidges To hiRe £3,000a-Week PoeT

By Herbie Russell

Stock image of a poet on Tower Bridge opened in 1831 appears in TS Eliot’s The Waste Land, regarded as one of the most important English language poems of the 20th century.

Eliot compares City commuters

According to police, they ‘flooded’ the region with heroin and crack cocaine - the total quantity equating to 3.29kg.

The head of the county line was Caine Morris-McGibbon (AKA ‘Goldie’), who controlled the ‘line’ from south London.

He also trafficked a sixteen-year-old boy to work as part of his drug-dealing enterprise.

A network of other individuals played vital roles in the operation.

Donegal and Bell trafficked the drugs from London to south Wales and controlled the hands-on dealing with customers.

Oduleye and Brown facilitated the transfers of money from their own accounts to Morris-McGibbon.

Detective Sergeant Richard Gregory said: “We have disrupted a major county line drug dealing gang jailing nine people involved in a significant organised

conspiracy after a five-year operation which has taken a large number of dangerous people and substances off the streets”.

“The case saw officers trawling through a vast amount of media data, phone analysis, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) along with forensic and tactical enforcements which needed overlaying to order to put forward a meticulous prosecution case.”

“We will continue to proactively target those we believe to be involved in drugs and use the powers we have to make sure their activity is disrupted.”

crossing the bridge to the condemned souls in Dante’s Inferno – a feeling many commuters may recognise.

More information about the role and details of how to apply can be found

at www.citybridgefoundation.org. uk/poetry or https://poetrysociety. org.uk/projects/city-bridge-poet-inresidence

By Herbie Russell

common causes of fire.

“It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from anything else that can easily catch alight.”

Jailed: the south london cohort who Bermondsey storeroom ‘flooded’ Wales with crack and heroin destroyed in fire

By Herbie Russell A group of south london men who ‘flooded’ Wales with crack and heroin have been jailed.

Nine people have been sentenced for their roles in the county lines drug operation, including gang members from Camberwell and Lambeth, after a hearing on Friday, March 15.

The south London cohort included Santana Donegan, 23, from Camberwell, Dejuan Maurice Bell, from Lambeth, Shaquile Oduleye, 27, from South Lambeth, and Tenika Brown, 31, from Lambeth.

Police said the success of Operation ‘Goldie’ had “disrupted a major county line drug dealing gang”.

Detectives say the gang ran the drug trafficking route from London to the Bridgend area of Wales between October 2018 and May 2019.

Convicted left to right: Santana Donegan, Caine Jardel Morris-McGibbon and Dejuan Maurice Bell

The Brandon Estate

the sentences were as Follows:

∙ Caine Jardel Morris-McGibbon – 26, from London - 11 years and six months ∙ Santana Donegan – 23, from Camberwell, London - eight years ∙ Dejuan Maurice Bell – 24, from Lambeth, London - eight years ∙ Menna Louise Thomas – 29, Pencoed, Bridgend - six years and six months ∙ John Hauxwell – 46, from Brackla - two year suspended sentence ∙ Shaquile Oduleye – 27, from South Lambeth - Community Order for Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) offences ∙ Tenika Brown – 31, from Lambeth, London - Community Order for Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) offences ∙ Aisha Mills – 26, from Croydon Community Order for Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) offences ∙ Joanne Gordon – 49, from London Community Order for Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) offences

A storeroom in Bermondsey has been destroyed by a fire with the Brigade warning people about using candles.

The blaze occurred on Southwark Park Road at 6.26pm on Saturday, March 23.

Around 20 people left the building before London Fire Brigade arrived and there were no reports of any injuries.

Around 25 firefighters and four fire engines had brought it under control by 8.06pm.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by candles.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Candles are one of the most

toP canDle saFety tiPs

∙ Keep candles away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can catch fire. ∙ Keep loose clothing and hair away from candles when they are lit. ∙ Always place your candles tealights in a suitable fire resistant candleholder. ∙ Make sure the candleholder holds the candle firmly and is on a flat and stable surface to stop it falling over.

© London Fire Brigade

Bridge is Falling Down.

Dating back to the 17th century, the song deals with the dilapidation of the original medieval stone bridge.

The Victorian London Bridge

© Met Police

NEWS 9

Tulse hill RaPisT conVicTed afTeR Woman JumPed fRom WindoW To escaPe

By Herbie Russell A mAn who raped and attacked a woman he held captive in tulse Hill has been convicted of a string of violent and sexual offences.

Nam Nguyen, 26, subjected his victim to horrific abuse over a ten-day period in September 2023, leaving her with extensive injuries including a fractured spine.

The woman only escaped her captor by jumping from a window and running to a nearby care home.

Southwark’s police chief described it as “some of the worst offending our detectives have ever seen”.

Officers launched their investigation after the woman fled to the care home with injuries to her face and body.

Nguyen was identified as the suspect

Pupils had forty minutes to do as many laps of the school as possible

School kids run ‘mini marathon’ to pay for their end-of-year trip

By Herbie Russell peckhAm schoolchilDren have run a ‘mini-marathon’ to fundraise for their end-of-year trip to an adventure camp.

Convicted: Nam Nguyen

and arrested shortly after.

The victim spoke at length with officers who learned she’d been raped and repeatedly attacked.

She said the defendant had taken control of her finances and restrained her to stop her leaving the flat.

Her accounts, CCTV, and forensic evidence were crucial to Nguyen’s conviction.

The defendant, of no fixed address, was found guilty of multiple offences following a trial at Inner London Crown Court on Monday, March 18.

They included false imprisonment, controlling and coercive behaviour, wounding with intent, threats to kill, grievous bodily harm with intent, rape, actual bodily harm, administering a noxious thing and sexual assault.

Detective Chief Superintendent Seb

Adjei-Addoh, local policing commander in Lambeth and Southwark, said: “It’s hard to imagine the pain and suffering this woman went through and I am pleased the man responsible for these awful crimes has been brought to justice.

“This is some of the worst offending our detectives have ever seen and I do not underestimate the impact having to speak at length about this has had on the victim. We will continue to support her in any way we can.

“This has been an incredibly complex investigation and I hope this outcome demonstrates how the Met is committed to tackling violence against women and girls. We will continue to ensure dangerous and predatory men face the consequences of their actions.”

Nguyen will be sentenced at Inner London Crown Court on Friday, May 24.

time.’

Speaking about the report, Head of Rosemead, Graeme McCafferty explained: “I am absolutely thrilled to share our outstanding recent inspection report with our community.”

Its early years’ provision was also highlighted. ‘Leaders in the early years effectively ensure staff have high expectations of the behaviour and achievement of children,’ the report found.

‘The positive relationships between adults and children in the early years help children settle in quickly and feel safe and

happy.’

Last year, the school announced a merger with St Dunstan’s College joining St Dunstan’s Community of Schools.

Noting the recent merger, the report highlighted: ‘Governors and senior leaders work well together to promote the effectiveness of the school. Governors’ vision has a positive influence on every area of the school and drives continual improvement, for example, the recent decision to merge with another school.’

The full inspection report can be found on Rosemead’s rosemeadprep.org.uk

Dulwich prep school earns high praise

By Herbie Russell A prep school and nursery in Dulwich was praised in a recent inspection for its ‘customised approach’ to pupil’s success.

Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery was assessed last November by the Independent Schools Inspectorate and the headteacher says he is ‘thrilled’ with the result.

The inspection commended Rosemead’s academic approach to learning, pastoral care and support and the positive influence of the school’s values, vision, and leadership.

‘A highly customised approach to every pupil’s academic progress is a significant strength of the school,’ the report explained, referring to its learning programme in Maths, English and Reasoning. This approach is used for children in Year 4 and above.

The report continued: ‘This, supported by an extensive enrichment programme and much support for individuals, impacts on all groups of pupils, enabling them to make good and often rapid progress over

Pupils at St Mary Magdalene CE Primary School have so far raised £1,600 to fund the excursion which has become “prohibitively expensive” for “most families”.

A national charity has warned English primary school kids are regularly missing out on these seminal life events amid a lack of government funding for schools.

Chavvah, a Year 6 School Councillor, said: “It was a fun way to get us all active and raise money for PGL. “I’m really looking forward to the independence of being away from home for two nights and all the new activities I’ll get to experience.”

Almost the entire student body huffed and puffed its way through laps of the school for forty minutes on Friday, March 1.

Cheered on by staff members, some managed as many as fourteen laps - equivalent to around 5km.

They were sponsored by friends

and family and there is still a JustGiving page open to donations.

The end-of-year trip will take them to a PGL centre in Marchant’s Hill, Surrey, where they’ll try archery, rat building and high ropes.

A school spokesperson said: “For some, it is their first trip away from home and is part of the school’s commitment to develop the whole child.

“They learn to develop courage, resilience and perseverance whilst strengthening relationships and having fun. It is an experience they will never forget.”

According to the Sutton Trust, 50 per cent of schools from the most disadvantaged communities were being forced to cut back on trips and outings in 2023.

The charity’s poll also found two in five primary and secondary leaders were using pupil premium – funding given to schools to support poorer pupils’ learning – to plug gaps in their general budgets.

In February, a Rotherhithe pupil completed 150 laps of Southwark Park - equivalent to 375km - so his peers can afford their Year 6 trip.

Visit rb.gy/p3okwg to donate.

10 NEWS

BeRmondsey aRTisTs’ documenTaRy To scReen aT suRRey Quays shoPPing cenTRe

Security guard strike ‘did not compromise safety’, says hospital trust

Artists Tony Fleming (left) and Jane Collings (right) feature in the documentary

By Isabel Ramirez stAff AnD patient safety will not be compromised whilst 30 Guy’s and St thomas’ Hospital security staff strike, says trust.

By Herbie Russell tHE StORy of Bermondsey’s artistic community will be explored in a documentary screening at a local gallery next week.

Filmed over twelve months between 2004 and 2005, The Story of The Bermondsey Artists’ Group shows how a cohort of creatives spearheaded a cultural explosion in the area.

The group, which established the Cafe Gallery in Southwark Park, is credited with sparking a mural craze with their early street art in the Surrey Docks bus shelter where jobbing dockers used to wait to get a day’s work.

The film, the work of documentary filmmaker and Southwark News Arts Editor Micky Holland, will be showcased at the Art of Isolation Gallery, inside the Surrey Quays Shopping Centre, on Thursday, April 4.

It’s the first time the documentary has been screened since it was filmed in 2005.

Micky, a born-and-bred Rotherhithe local, said: “When I first approached Ron Henocq [Bermondsey Artists’ Group Director] about making the documentary, his first words were: ‘Why would you want to make a film about us!?

“He, and the members, didn’t realise how big a part of Bermondsey they had become and wondered why anyone would be interested.”

© The lastminute.com London Eye

London Eye gets fresh paint job for first day of spring

By Herbie Russell ABseilers hAVe finished smothering the London Eye with 5,000 litres of paint just in time for the first day of spring (Wednesday, march 20).

The attraction needs a touch-up once every three years so painters have been dangling 130 metres off the ground to get the job done.

The makeover required eight people to work five nights a week for six months the same time it takes to paint roughly

The London Eye got a spring spruce up

But Micky was adamant they had a story to tell. “When did you start seeing street art on the manor?” he said.

“There was none before they arrived, now, after what some of those artists started with those early murals in Surrey Docks bus shelter and Swan Lane has mushroomed into murals everywhere.”

Inspired by Reap, a twelve-month project

by Anne Bean, based in the group’s two galleries, Micky also decided to film the documentary over one year.

Micky explained: “They were initially a bit suspicious but after the third or fourth visit to film them working and to conduct interviews, they were fine.

“Getting to know the artists was great

‘you dumB coW’:

Waterloo station takes stand against staff abuse

By Herbie Russell wAterloo stAtion staff subjected to abusive taunts like ‘you dumb cow’ and ‘you absolute moron’ are being supported with a new marketing campaign.

1,660 cars.

Ti Onur, Head of Operations at the lastminute.com London Eye, said: “Can you imagine a more picturesque painting location than this - it’s the perfect spot to soar above and soak in the iconic London sights!

“Our amazing team take to the skies every three years to ensure the lastminute.com London Eye stays sparkling over the capital. And this year even more importantly, to ensure the attraction looks its very best heading into its 25th birthday in 2025.”

and hearing about the mad parties and events they had in the old Butler’s Wharf warehouse was eye-opening; becoming more informed about art is something that has stayed with me.”

Micky also created the Silwood Estate: Our History – Our Home documentary, a history of the Rotherhithe estate, from weathering Nazi bombs to its turn-of-thecentury regeneration.

‘The Story of the Bermondsey Artists’ Group’ will be screened at the Art of Isolation, upstairs at the Surrey Quays Shopping Centre, at 6.30pm on Thursday, April 4. Turn up on the day or book ahead by emailing isolationart2020@ gmail.com. Tickets cost £5.

South Western Railway will paste eyecatching posters across its network, including the south London station, to deter passengers from mistreating employees.

The graphics show everyday items photoshopped with mean messages to show vile comments can stay with staff after work.

‘You dumb cow’ has been superimposed on a doormat while a shower gel bottle has been edited to say ‘you stupid old fool’.

While verbal attacks might be considered ‘low-level’ compared to more extreme assaults, their consequences can be enduring, the rail operator said.

The campaign is based on consultations with employees, who shared their experiences of abuse. ’Be Kind’ badges are being given out to staff to help spread the message.

Grant Robey, Security Manager for South Western Railway, said: “We hope this campaign will bring the human impact of thoughtless abuse to the front of our customers’ minds and remind them to be kind to our colleagues, even when things go wrong on their journeys.”

The ‘You dumb cow’ poster

© SWR

Last week, the workers went on strike after the trust declined to pay them a wage increase worth £2,000 - which equals 96 pence per hour.

Unite, the UK’s leading union, said its members walked out for seven days from 7 am on Monday 18 March.

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “The action of the trust is deplorable. These workers play a crucial frontline role but are on poverty wages and are struggling to make ends meet.

“Unite always backs its members to the hilt and the workers at Guys and St Thomas’ have the union’s total backing in the escalation of strikes.”

There were questions over the safety of staff and patients, given the crucial role the officers play across the two hospitals: St Thomas’ Hospital and Guys Hospital.

However, the Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust said this would not be a problem as not all workers were striking.

The latest wave of strikes follows two previous days of industrial action which took place because the security guards are amongst the lowest paid at the hospital.

The workers are reportedly paid less than their counterparts at hospitals across London, such as Kings’ College Hospital, where a security officer’s salary starts at £30,000 per annum.

A security officer taking part in the strikes said: “Our security management got a pay increase last year, but our salary remains the same, despite our role becoming increasingly more dangerous.

“We never quite know what we are going to get when we come into work and that is incredibly daunting. We deal with everything, from volatile patients to opening and unlocking various hospital departments. It all comes with a great deal of risk, but that is ignored by the trust.

“We have simply had enough.”

In addition to the pay dispute, the security workers are also fighting against the trust’s implementation of unpaid breaks as well as its refusal to calculate holiday allowance based on a 37.5-hour working week.

A spokesperson for Guy’s and St Thomas’ said: “We are disappointed that Unite is continuing with these strikes in the middle of constructive talks.

We would urge them to call off this action so we can continue making progress on a fair deal for our highly valued security officers.”

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© Robert Firth

12 NEWS

TenanTs claim They Pay £500 PeR yeaR foR ‘non eXisTenT concieRge’

By Robert Firth

Local Democracy Reporter council tenAnts living in a rat infested block of flats plagued by repair issues claim they’re shelling out over £500 per year for a ‘non-existent concierge’ while residents living in near identical private apartments next door enjoy luxuries including a 24-hour caretaker service, a private gym and underfloor heating.

Broken paving stone on the Dibdin Apartments roof terrace

Broken fence around satellite dishes on roof terrace of Dibdin Apartments on Blackfriars Road

When Southwark Council bought a block of affordable housing included in the award-winning Blackfriars Circus development in 2017, then cabinet member for housing Stephanie Cryan said the purchase would allow council tenants ‘to enjoy living in some of the most attractive homes in the borough’.

Few families living in the 56 flats the council took over in the Dibdin Apartments block would describe their homes using those words today. Instead they talk about constantly broken lifts, faulty doors that allow strangers to walk in off the street, and a weekly charge for a concierge which is included in their rent, despite the building not having one.

Teenagers hang out on the rooftop garden smoking weed, junkies linger in the basement and stairwell, the heating

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Where to take the kids the Easter holidays Page 17

Francesca Garrett with cllr Graham neale and hot water breaks repeatedly, while residents claim cleaning is not up to standard.

Dad Maciej Malicki, 40, said: “Our rent includes concierge and we don’t have a concierge. It’s a fairly new building but the state is already worse than older ones because there’s no management of people The youths get bricks from the roof and they throw them on the road. We have more weeds than plants in the outside area.”

Mum Fadumo, 34, who declined to give her surname, added: “We pay a concierge charge. It’s quite a lot and we don’t know where it goes and what the benefits are because we don’t have one. It just does not feel safe in here..

Francesca Garrett, 34, who moved into the block when it first opened seven years ago, said: “I have experienced a lot of problems. I had mould and it took them months to come and deal with. It went on for eight to 10 months until it was done and safe to sit at the kitchen table and eat.

“The first floor terrace has rats now. The rats from the bin store have eaten their way through the concrete to the first floor.

People are terrified so they leave their bins in the area outside. The rats are big and once I counted 23 of them.”

Yusmeri Misle, a resident of Dibdin Apartments on Blackfriars Road

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Yusmeri Misle, 37, who also moved in seven years ago, added: “Every year

the rent goes up but we have no one downstairs. The lift breaks often. The door is always broken and lots of people come off the street to smoke weed.

There’s people doing drugs on the stairs and there’s kids going down them.”

She added that the building’s door locking system, which is currently switched off, was dangerous. Yusmeri said she had previously got stuck in the stairwell with her baby son when a door release button broke.

When the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) visited this week, there were several people hanging around in the stairwell and cigarette butts peppered the steps. The rooftop terrace, which has panoramic views of the London skyline, was empty. A wooden enclosure surrounding a satellite dish had been partly pulled down and a paving stone was missing from the terrace floor.

In the reception area downstairs, notices warned couriers not to leave parcels in the hallway because parcels were ‘usually stolen’. A letter dated June 2017 stuck to the noticeboard and headed with the Southwark Council logo informed residents of ‘actions that the council has taken in response to the terrible fire at Grenfell Tower’.

The area’s Liberal Democrat councillors, Maria Linforth-Hall and Graham Neale, said residents felt ignored by the Labourrun council. Cllr Neale said: “Housing services under Southwark Labour have become inaccessible and woefully inadequate. Dibdin is yet another example of residents with urgent issues being ignored by the council.”

Cllr Sarah King, the council’s cabinet member for council homes, said: “We take all of the issues raised by residents very seriously, such as the repairs, maintenance and pest control matters, and will look into each point. We will meet with residents to discuss all of these matters further in order to resolve them.

“We are also aware of the issue with vandalism of the doors and associated antisocial behaviour, which we have picked up with the police in order to get an action plan in place. I sincerely hope that we can make life more pleasant for residents once we have tackled these various issues.”

NEWS 13

Peckham nursery will close this summer due to falling numbers

Ann Bernadt Nursery School

By Isabel Ramirez a WELL-LOVEd Peckham nursery, which plunged into debt due to falling pupil numbers, will close in August.

News that Ann Bernadt Nursery School was at risk first broke in November after being deemed financially inviable.

Over the last seven years, pupil numbers there have fallen by almost two-thirds and they currently owe £300,000 to the council.

Since being earmarked for closure, the nursery took various steps to curb the outcome, including staffing restructures and joining up with another governing body for support, the River Peck Federation.

But at the last cabinet meeting, Southwark Council approved the decision to close it.

Cllr Jasmine Ali, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Refugees said: “I would like to thank Gregory Doey the Executive Head Teacher at River Peck Federation, Levia Ostrove-Pound the Head of School at Ann Bernadt for her unwavering dedication to the staff, children and families and to each and every staff member who works tirelessly on behalf of the children.”

Ann Bernadt Nursery School will close

on 31 August 2024.

Regarding the loss of places, Cllr Ali said there is another nursery in the River Peck Federation that will be able to find some places for families that need them.

She continued: “In all schools that have closed or amalgamated children have successfully managed the transition to the new school regardless of need.”

“Southwark Schools HR have worked previously with closing schools and will support staff to secure employment elsewhere in the borough wherever possible. They are given practical support and can be put forward for roles if available, and then undergo a normal recruitment process.”

Nurseries and primary schools across the borough, and nationally, are struggling to remain open amid plummeting pupil admissions.

At the start of the year, Kintore Way Nursery in Bermondsey made staff cuts in an attempt to revive its debt, which parents say has negatively impacted its ability to cater for its pupils - especially those with special educational needs.

We want to hear from any parents affected by the decision to close Ann Bernadt Nursery School. If this is you please feel free to get in touch via email: isabel@southwarknews.co.uk

Woman dies after being rescued from Peckham house fire

By Herbie Russell A womAn has died after she was rescued from a house fire in peckham.

© Google

Last Sunday evening at around 7:40 pm, firefighters were called to a fire on Crane Street.

Despite being saved from the first floor of the building and receiving emergency care, the woman died at the scene.

The police and fire brigade are investigating the cause of the fire.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: ““Part of the first floor of an endof-terrace house was damaged by fire.

One woman was rescued by breathing apparatus crews via an internal staircase. She was given immediate emergency care by firefighters and London Ambulance Service but was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

“The Brigade was called at 1940 and the fire was extinguished by 2125. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Peckham, Old Kent Road and New Cross fire station attended the scene.”

The Range aT suRRey Quays Will close soon and iT Won’T Be RePlaced

By Isabel Ramirez

stAff At the Range at Surrey Quays say they’re ‘disheartened’ following news that the store will close in May.

British Land confirmed the news in a statement online and said the unit would be ‘refitted’ with leisure facilities and restaurants ‘by the Autumn.’

It is part of the Canada Water Masterplan which includes the construction of a new town centre on the Surrey Quays Shopping Centre site - where The Range is currently located.

One staff member who has worked at the store for years told us: “I speak for everyone at the shop when I say we are devastated.”

The employee, who would prefer to remain anonymous, said they found out two weeks ago but were ‘waiting for an outcome.’

“I don’t know what I’m going to

British Land reads: “We wanted to provide some clarification on the plans for The Range unit in response to comments on social media.

“We can confirm The Range will be closing in the coming months and appreciate this will be impacting some people’s jobs.

“The unit housing The Range won’t be demolished at this time; instead, it will be refitted and will re-open from this autumn offering places to eat, drink and enjoy leisure time, which will in turn offer people a variety of new job opportunities. We will be announcing further details soon.

“We will continue to work with our retailers in Surrey Quays Shopping Centre to drive footfall and retain a vibrant, diverse retail mix in the medium term. A varied mix of shops and restaurants will be provided in the coming years linked to the new phases of the development. We will continue to keep the community updated via our usual channels.”

Road at around 1.40pm and found a man suffering a stab injury to the neck.

Officers arrested a man on suspicion of grievous bodily harm who remains in custody.

Residents said a police cordon had been erected around a residential property on the road.

A Met Police spokesperson said: “Police were called at around

13:40hrs on Wednesday, 20 March to a report of a stabbing on Gautrey Road, Nunhead.

“Officers attended and found a man, aged in his 40s, with a stab injury to his neck.

“He was taken to hospital where he remains in a stable condition.

“A man has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and remains in custody.”

Man stabbed in the neck in Nunhead

By Herbie Russell A mAn in his forties has been stabbed in the neck in nunhead.

Police rushed to the incident on Gautrey road, nunhead

do. There are lots of older women working there who have been there from the start.

“It’s going to be impossible for them to get another job now.”

In its statement, British Land said that when the unit has been refitted, new jobs will open up - but staff explained they had not been informed of this.

“Nothing has been said to us about new job opportunities.

“The only other option for work is if another store has vacancies - but the nearest Range is in Croydon so that’s not realistic for most people.”

Commenting on the loss of the store itself, they said: “It’s very busy over there.

“There’s a market for it there. Kids use it for school supplies, and elderly and disabled people come to get art supplies and household goods.

“I feel for the local people - I know they’re very sad about it.”

The full online statement from

Officers have made an arrest following the incident on Wednesday, March 20.

The victim was taken to hospital where he remains in a stable condition.

Police were called to Gautrey

14 NEWS

Easter in South London

Easter Egg hunts and more

Easter bunny hunt with prizes free at Elephant & Castle

The sweet life in Greenwich

No need to book before you go, just head to the Visitor Centre on the day of your visit.

Dates: 29 March to 14 April 2024, 10am to 5pm, Tickets: £3 Visitor Centre, Old Royal Naval College, SE10 9NN ornc.org/whats-on/easter-time-travel-trail/

Easter hunt and games in peckham

Get ready for an eggtastic Easter Eggstravaganza filled with an egg hunt, games, and tons of fun brought to you by the Hope Gordon Foundation, hosted at Peckham Levels.

A special event is coming to Elephant and Castle with performances, chocolate eggs and an Easter Bunny hunt with prizes - all free of charge.

On Saturday 30 March, families are being invited to Castle Square as it is transformed for an Easter celebration.

Guests can enjoy face painting, workshops, performances and food from the local traders, along with an appearance from the Easter Bunny.

Follow the bunny around Castle Square to take selfies and find yourself some Easter treats. Anyone who locates the bunny will also receive vouchers to redeem in exchange for free Easter rainbow cupcakes.

Throughout the day there will be activities and workshops for the whole family to get involved in, including face painting so visitors can transform themselves into the Easter Bunny too.

Community-based group, Art in The Park will also be at Castle Square to create a large-scale floor-based collage to which visitors can contribute. Free chocolate eggs will be available throughout the day gifted by the Easter Bunny.

Along with treats and workshops, an exciting lineup of performances from local groups UpSideDown Dance Academy, Frogprince Baby Music and School Dance Talentos will keep everyone entertained throughout.

Dates Saturday 30th March 11 am - 5 pm Castle Square, 40 Elephant Road, SE17 1EU Admission: FREE

Easter trail at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich

Alongside the main attraction – the Easter Egg Hunt – there will be arts and crafts activities and a meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny Mascot.

This Easter party provides a safe and inclusive environment where children can have fun, make new friends and celebrate the joy of Easter together.

Saturday 30 March, 2pm to 4pm. Tickets from £3.96 95a Rye Lane, Peckham, SE15 4ST peckhamlevels.org/events/easter-eggstravaganza

hunt with the family at Eltham Palace It’s time to work together as a team for Eltham Palace’s Easter Adventure Quest. Hunt for clues in the gardens, track down the Easter eggs and get rewarded with a tasty chocolate treat.

You can take on the quest every day of the school holidays, and it costs £2 to take part on top of the ticket price.

Dates: 23 March to 14 April 2024, 10am to 4pm Tickets: £2 Entry costs: Adults £18, children £11 – book online and save 15% on your entry ticket Eltham Palace, Greenwich, SE9 5QE www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/elthampalace-easter-adventure-quest/

This little bunny went to Greenwich market Greenwich Market has plenty in store for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend. They’re hosting an Easter Egg Hunt to raise money for Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice, as well as arts and crafts activities.

Perfect for the school holidays, bring the kids and hop on the Easter Bunny’s special time machine at the Old Royal Naval College’s Visitor Centre and learn about Easter celebrations throughout history.

You can buy a self-led Easter activity booklet, which includes fun facts about Easter through the ages. Once completed, the trail can be used to claim a chocolate prize.

On Good Friday (29 March) and Easter Monday (1 April), you’ll find a free arts and crafts workshop hosted by Paper Moon. Saturday (30 March) will see the easter egg hunt take place, and on Easter Sunday (31 March) there will be face painting.

Dates: 29 March to 1 April 2024 Greenwich Market, Greenwich SE10 9HZ www.greenwichmarket.london/events/detail/easter-atgreenwich-market

Anew exhibition at Greenwich’s Old Royal Naval College is telling the delicious history of the area’s chocolate houses, writes Eliza Frost...

Just in time for Easter weekend, the new Chocolate House Greenwich exhibition is set to open at Old Royal Naval College, celebrating the Enlightenment and all things Chocolate.

The 18th Century was hot chocolate’s heyday and you can now step back in time to discover its key role in the revival of Greenwich and experience a recreation of Grace and Thomas Tosier’s famous “royal” Chocolate House.

From Friday 29 March to Sunday 3 November 2024, you can explore the complex history of chocolate, and its surprising role at the heart of new cultural and scientific conversations at the time.

Helen White, senior interpretation manager at the Old Royal Naval College, says: “This new exhibition will offer visitors the chance to discover the history and appeal of chocolate as a fashionable and elegant luxury drink in 18th-century Greenwich.

“It will trace the story of chocolate from its origins in Central America to its role as a mark of sophistication among London’s Enlightenment movers and shakers.”

In the early 18th Century, Greenwich became a popular destination for those in search of elegant surroundings and was a hub for astronomy, science and culture. The Tosier Chocolate House, located in what became known as Chocolate Row, became a social space for the leading figures of the day.

The exhibition tells the story of Greenwich’s rich chocolate history, White explains: “Grace Tosier’s famous Chocolate House was part of the regeneration of Greenwich in the early 1700s when Sir Christopher Wren’s iconic architectural project, the Royal Hospital for Seamen, was reviving the fortunes of the town. Greenwich was a place on the up and was fast becoming a popular destination for people of sophisticated tastes.”

She adds: “We have recreated the Tosier Chocolate House favoured by courtiers and ambassadors of the time. The audio and visual experience presents the flamboyant proprietor, Grace Tosier, and a chance to listen in on great minds of the day, including architect and astronomer Sir Christopher Wren, writer and diarist John Evelyn, the first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed, and playwright and architect John Vanbrugh.”

A series of events will also complement the exhibition, including an Easter Trail for families, a Choco-Late this summer, and a series of hands-on chocolate-themed and chocolate-making workshops.

Dates: Friday 29 March to Sunday 3 November 2024 Tickets: Included as part of Painted Hall ticket (£15, rising to £16.50 from 1 April 2024).

Children go free Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk, Greenwich, SE10 9NN ornc.org/whats-on/chocolate-housegreenwich

NEWS 15

GREAT SHOWS THIS EASTER! A Unicorn Production

17 MAR – 21 APR

A Unicorn Production in association with Le Gateau Chocolat

27 MAR – 21 APR

LIFE’S NOT FAIR (Y-TALES) Tickets from £10.50

For ages 8 – 13

Tickets from £11.50

For ages 3 – 7

What's On Easter '24 Box office 020 8463 0100 • blackheathhalls.com • & DANCE PART OF TRINITY LABAN CONSERVATOIRE OF MUSIC

The Rheingans Sisters Fri 5 Apr, 8pm

Limani Trio

Mon 8 Apr, 1.10pm

Fri 12 Apr 3pm

Teach Rex: Velociraptor Show Wed 10 Apr, 10am & 12.30pm

The Witch & The Egg

Sat 13 Apr, 11am & 3pm

Sat 20 Apr, 2pm & 4pm Sun 21 Apr, 11am & 2pm

NEWS 17

Where to take the kids this easter ...

Spring Family Fun at the Southbank Centre

Dragons and Mythical Beats

Dragons and Mythical Beats © Cesare DeGiglio

The Southbank Centre’s Spring Family Fun programme continues again during May half-term.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, they have plenty of unforgettable performances and experiences to keep everyone entertained in the holidays. A world of creativity, imagination and discovery awaits, this is definate must Find out more southbankcentre. co.uk or scan QR code below

© Brian Hartley

Running throughout the Easter holiday and May half-term, this cross-artform celebration promises a tapestry of entertainment for all ages, including plenty of free events.

Go on a fantastical adventure with Dragons and Mythical Beasts, an award-winning show direct from the West End featuring spectacular puppets that bring myths and legends to life.

Discover the colossal Stone Troll, the mysterious Indrik, the supernatural Baku, the Tooth Fairy (not as sweet as you’d think), an adorable Unicorn and majestic Griffin.

Take your place among legendary heroes, just don’t wake the Dragon…

This is a must-see for brave heroes of all sizes!

Explore the wonders and woes of plastics with thought-provoking dance show Plastic Drastic Fantastic Drawing on South Asian dance, with a contemporary dance theatre workshop for families exploring our complex relationship with plastics.

This Friday, which is Good Friday, March 29, feel the rhythm with family special of Simmer Down, a reggae and revival extravaganza for all ages.

Explore the Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden in In the Spring Garden, a delightful fusion of outdoor activities and artistic performances welcoming the arrival of spring.

© Robert Day

Families to dive into a world of wonder and excitement with the Southbank Centre’s Spring Family Fun programme.

Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden

A kids’ review - Ifly Freddie Byrnes 12 and Mason Terry 12 from Nunhead (pictured) Mason: It was fantastic Freddie: It was brilliant

What is it?

Ifly is an indoor skydiving experience, that nearly everyone can take part in.

How much?

Costs from £49.99 per person which seems quite expensive for a short activity but the look on the children’s face during and after was worth it!

How to get there?

We drove as there’s parking (check car parks and costs before travelling) As this branch was located at the O2 it’s very easy to get to on the jubilee line. Once you’re out of the station enter the dome and walk round to the right – you can’t miss it!

There is a disabled lift and toilet onsite, there’s no buggy park but there’s lots of waiting space so not a problem. There are lockers available for free for anyone who needs to store valuables.

Bringing this classic children’s story to life, Goldilocks: The Ballet is an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy the magic of live, professional ballet for a special Easter treat at Blackheath Halls.

Join Goldilocks, the girl with the lovely locks and her jar of magic honey, as she befriends a family of bears and teaches everyone the value of sharing.

But watch out for Selfish Sid who, on hearing that the honey is magical, hatches a nasty plan to steal it from Goldilocks.

With a 1940s vibe, a variety of dance styles and plenty of bowls of delicious porridge, this ballet is just right.

Dates: Friday 12 Apr 2024, 3pm Tickets: Adults £16, under-16s £14 Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, SE3 9RQ www.blackheathhalls.com/ whats-on/goldilocks/

Free at Borough Market

Borough Market will host a free programme of Easter activities, including the chance for kids to grow their own food.

Off the Jubilee Line

What the kids said:

Juuust right

Food & Drink?

In Ifly you aren’t able to purchase your own food and drink, however there are lots of food outlets to choose from at the O2 or there are picnic benches directly outside Ifly so welcome to bring your own.

How long does it last?

You’re requested to arrive 45 minutes before your flight to get weighed, changed and have a safety briefing . Each person will have 2 flights which last 2.5 minutes each.

Dulwich Picture Gallery

On your second flight you (parents/ carers) can decide if you’d like a third flight for £20 and/or a high fly for £20 (£40 for both) I declined at first but quickly changed my mind for the boys as the high fly looked so cool and they both said it was the best part, so glad I did!

Booking in advance?

Also check out our website ...

www.southlondon.co.uk for all events locally

seeds by decorating plant pot sticks.

There will also be a free chocolate lollipop for the first 100 children who attend the workshops each day.

Borough Market will be open during the Easter holidays at its usual times but close on Easter Sunday and Easter Monday.

For information on opening times, visit boroughmarket.org.uk The Market Explorers Garden events will take place daily between 11 am and 3 pm. The events are drop-in, with no booking required.

Also check out...

Are there any hidden extras?

We was surprised how busy it was but there were still a few slots left, I’d book in advance if you want a specific date and time.

The interactive event will take place daily on Tuesday 2 to Thursday 4 April in the Market Hall - which will be transformed into a pop-up garden with trellis archways, white picket fencing and flowers for the occasion.

Primary school children are being encouraged to learn where their food comes from through a ‘What’s in the Box?’ guessing game, hands-on crafts and seed planting.

Guided by Borough Market’s expert traders, all attendees have the choice of sowing their own fruit, vegetable, or herb seeds.

Each child will take their seeds home in compostable pots to cultivate in their garden or window boxes.

They will get to personalise their potted

For info?

Website www.iflyworld.co.uk

Experiment with colour and make different artworks inspired by the Soulscapes exhibition and Collection at Dulwich Picture Gallery.

Activities are aimed at 7- to 12-yearolds and their families, but siblings and family members of all ages are welcome.

Art Sundays are grouped into three sessions to make sure everyone has a chance to experiment. Select the time you would like to attend on the booking page.

There are a maximum of 5 tickets per family per time slot.

On Sundays (31 March, 28 April, 26 May 2024) from 1pm to 1:45pm, 2pm to 2:45pm or 3pm to 3:45pm. Free Gallery Road, SE21 7AD www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk/ whats-on/family-events/2024/feb/ art-sundays/

Horiman - Forest Hill

The first UK showing of Dinosaur rEvolution is on at Horniman Museum and Gardens.

For kids that dino-mad this is great option.

It explores the relationship between dinosaurs and birds in a colourful and fascinating exhibition, including five large animatronic models, many accurate cast fossil skeletons and skulls – some touchable, detailed graphics by the acclaimed artist Luis V Rey, dress up, games, and more.

Horniman Museum and Gardens is also hosting its Spring Fair on Saturday 30 March 2024, from 11am to 4pm.

Until 3 November. Tickets: Adult £9, child £6 100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk/event/dinosaurrevolution

18 OPINION

Comment

‘Southwark must be London’s worst landlord. Even Labour agree it’s time for leadership change’

f

ORty FIVE per cent of southwark labour councillors agree with liberal Democrats that we need a change of leadership in southwark!

Last week, my colleagues and I called on the leader of the council to consider stepping down. Now, after their leadership contest, it seems almost half of the Labour group agree with us.

On Saturday, the leader of the council held on by a mere five votes.

We’ve seen it for months, but the split in Labour ranks is now clear as day, and it comes as absolutely no surprise.

Labour is leading Southwark into crisis after crisis, with residents being woefully let down on housing. Southwark must be London’s worst landlord.

The major works scandals revealed over the past 6 months have exposed the depth of mismanagement in Southwark’s housing department.

The council leader and finance cabinet member were the ones responsible and signed off millions of overspend and years of delay.

At full council last week, the leader and cabinet members responsible refused again to personally apologise for their role in the fiasco.

However, rather than try to learn from their mistakes, Labour are instead opting to shut down scrutiny.

We learnt last week that estates will no longer be allowed appear at scrutiny to report major works problems, undoubtedly to save Labour from further embarrassment.

And there is no shortage of mistakes to learn from. Last week my Liberal Democrat colleagues in St George’s ward were listening to shocking stories from the residents of Dibdin Apartments.

Despite the building only being a few years old, council tenants there have been dealing with broken security doors, faulty lifts, rat infestations and

anti-social behaviour while private tenants in the same development enjoy a gym and a 24-hour caretaker service.

Residents should not have to go to the press to get the council to notice them as those in Dibdin have, but that’s the situation we’re in and it will only get worse as Labour limits scrutiny further.

Every day councillors are contacted about how bad housing has got in Southwark. Unfortunately there are only currently 11 Southwark Liberal Democrat Councillors to shine a light on the situation. But If I can help you or your neighbours please get in touch with me: victor. chamberlain@southwark.gov.uk.

Despite the endless and urgent issues facing communities across the borough, if you listened to the Labour group at last week’s council assembly you would think there were no problems whatsoever in Southwark.

They’re far too busy congratulating themselves and putting their head

VICTOR CHAMBERLAIN Leader of the Southwark Lib Dems in the sand when it gets difficult.

The inability of this Labour leadership to accept the reality of, let alone tackle, the urgent issues facing Southwark has been abundantly clear to the opposition and residents for some time.

It seems it’s now impossible for those in the Labour group to ignore it too.

The leader’s narrowest of victories

in Saturday’s contest is just the beginning, and you can guarantee we will start seeing discontent and division grow within the Labour ranks.

The long overdue leadership change we need is now an inevitability, and, for those struggling under what must be London’s worst landlord, it cannot come soon enough.

‘EVERYTHING YOU NEED UNDER ONE ROOF’ EVENING STANDARD ‘A BRILLIANT DAY OUT OF FOOD, DRINK, CULTURE, MUSIC, AND MORE’ SECRET LONDON ‘WHERE ELSE CAN YOU HAVE A SOCIALLY ACCEPTABLE COCKTAIL IN A CAR PARK?’ LONDON X LONDON

OPINION 19

He was fighting for our kids’ futures Richard’s legacy must not be forgotten

R

ichard Taylor, who fought for children to live safely and free from violence, died last weekend - and his legacy must not be forgotten.

The loss of Richard has been keenly felt - not least because he was a man who turned his own tragedy into a force for good.

After losing their ten-year-old son Damilola in 2000, parents Richard and Gloria set up the Damilola Taylor Trust in his memory.

They built the Trust on the belief that every child should be able to live their life free from the fear of violence - the very thing that stole their son away.

One of the notable things the charity did was to give vulnerable youths - mainly in inner-city south London - opportunities in work and education to steer them away from criminal paths.

But aside from opportunity, the Trust was there for victims and their families who had been affected by violent crime. Since his passing, many have come out and spoken of the true humanitarian Richard was. It was clear he did not want anyone to feel alone in their darkest hour.

A close friend of his told us something that summed this up beautifully - that Richard would attend the funerals of ‘nearly every child that died by a gun or knife.’ They had only found this out after he died.

Knife crime has not gone away. Just last month we covered a whole feature on Southwark’s knife crime problem - where we revealed that between November 2020 and December 2023, the borough saw 2,015 knife-related offences.

We must not forget it is an issue that still needs an advocate, and the incomparable legacy Richard has left, and that his wife Gloria left in 2008 when she died, must be passed on.

What’s more, whilst Peckham itself has seen great change since 2000, if anything the difficult social conditions that can lead to crime after now even more pronounced - with the cost of living crisis and the struggle of local government and outreach groups to do so much more with so much less.

Along with a lesson of resilience and tenacity, Richard has left us with hope.

Hope kept him going when he had lost the dearest thing to him and now that he is at peace we have a duty as a borough and a country to continue his fight.

cryptic Puzzle Clues Across

Clues Down

4 Stay! About turn! Right (6) 8 Signified negative indeed (7) 9 Good man about the ship is a strain (6) 10 Theatrical way to support the clergy (9) 11 New ideas take in a broad (4) 13 Race resulting from early confusion (5) 14 Men go back East, little sister that’s fate (7) 16 Without a song? How stuffy! (7) 18 It’s obvious I’m in the plot (5) 19 Garlands not to be trusted we hear (4) 21 Fairy encountered round about the edge (9) 22 Not necessarily gamblers, but associated with betters (6) 23 A crafty walk round the pub (7) 24 Vehicle sounds lethal (6)

1 Some Ten, I agree, can be beastly (9) 2 Might they be drunk at henparties? (9) 3 Pretty girl heard to get a ring (5) 5 Pity the badly hurt (4) 6 Beg to see the summary by the sound of it (6) 7 Stalks at speed (6) 9 Expensive soak! (5) 11 Welfare of 3 down, perhaps, in flight (45) 12 Coach calls for steady work (9) 15 Does he fool about in the woods? (5) 16 Modifies sound sacrificial tables (6) 17 Free and led astray a puzzling problem (6) 20 Upanddown measurement (5) 21 Erstwhile coxcomb in quiet dress (4)

Quick Puzzle Clues Across

Clues Down

4 Pardoned (6) 8 Eyeglass (7) 9 Hanging point of ice (6) 10 Citizen of Moscow (9) 11 Surrender (4) 13 Worship (5) 14 Written document (7) 16 Figure (7) 18 Begin (5) 19 In the midst (4) 21 Used for coiffure (4,5) 22 Country (6) 23 Bereaved husband (7) 24 Not unusual (6)

1 Riddle (9) 2 Anxious (9) 3 In existence (5) 5 Step (4) 6 Distress signal (6) 7 More profound (6) 9 Irritating (5) 11 Standard (9) 12 Lowered (9) 15 Maritime (5) 16 State (6) 17 Reflector (6) 20 Characteristic (5) 21 Wife of Zeus (4)

Unfortunately no answers are available for last week's Crossword, apologies for any disappointment.

Register now for a place in Nursery or Reception in September 2024

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Southwark News March 2024.indd 1

20/03/2024 11:53:39

ARTS 21

what’s on

in Southwark

All the convincing I needed to see this piece was found by reading: ‘She was a 17-year-old girl, the only God she believed in was Taylor Swift’.

If that hasn’t got you, read on, and perhaps I’ll win you over, writes Bella Christy.

Written by Rosie Day, directed by Georgie Staight, and performed by Charithra Chandran (Bridgeton), Instructions for a Teenage Armageddon is fuelled by a trio of women - A story for women, about women (well, a girl, to be specific), told by women—I already love it.

This is a ‘one girl show’ that diverts from the regular presentation of young women as ‘daughter’,’sister’, or ‘girlfriend’. In this piece, a young girl takes us on a journey through grief and growth after the death of her older sister. We watch her navigate her relationships, mental health, and family dynamics with a raw and realistic sense of imperfection.

Walking into the auditorium, playing were artists such as Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo, setting the scene for the dynamic, feminist, and pop culture-filled performance. Charithra was brilliant: captivating and never dull; she held the audience’s attention with ease for 80 minutes straight.

The play, despite its difficult themes, starts off light and bright. A humorous tone is set as the young girl pokes fun at the situations surrounding her sister’s death.

As the piece evolves, there is a constant shifting between lightness and tragedy.

I find myself laughing and gasping in

unison as the girl ponders, ‘It must be costeffective to go from two to one’.

Charithra delivered emotional moments with heart and resolve. The exploration of parental grief was particularly moving, but what truly resonated with me was the speech about her sister’s luminosity, how she wanted to be just like her. As an older sister, I connected with this type of love, and the mere idea of losing my younger sister brought tears to my eyes.

The play is socially conscious, ‘woke’, if you will. It deconstructs the phrase ‘boys will boys’ and gives advice such as ‘No is a complete sentence’. As a teenager, I think this would have really hit home for me.

Now, as a confident adult, the messages in the play reaffirm and align with existing beliefs rather than open my eyes, but I recognise its potential to profoundly impact younger audiences. I think my 16-year-old self would have found this play pretty groundbreaking.

Instructions for a Teenage Armageddon is a powerful journey through a difficult youth, speckled with loss and abuse. Both light and sombre, Rosie, Georgie, and Charithra deliver a wonderful piece of theatre. I encourage any young girl, anyone really, to go and experience it.

Garrick Theatre, 2 Charing Cross Rd, London, WC2H 0HH Dates: Sunday 24 March, Sunday 7 April, Sunday 14 April, Sunday 21 April, Sunday 28 April. Times: 2.30 & 6pm. £25 - £60.

Booking: https://ticketing.nimaxtheatres. com/tickets/ - 0330 333 4811

Skully is back in jail

Frank Skully has been hard at work in South London theatres in recent years and always lights up my radar because of the gritty nature of his work; he makes theatre that is very relatable ,but more to those people who rarely go the theatre and he is slowly but surely changing that, writes Michael Holland.

His self-penned, one-man show “Every Sinner has a Future - Every Saint has a Past” at Peckham’s Mountview Theatre told of his life growing up in West London with parents of the Windrush Generation and how he ended up trapped in a revolving door of committing crime and going to jail.

But even during the years spent in and out of prison, Skully knew there was something better for him. He recalls an early chance that led to him thinking about making changes: ‘In 1995 I got an amazing opportunity of several weeks’ day release to work under the director Simon Callow in an opera at Broomhill Theatre in Kent.

After the production ended I immediately signed myself up to do a Drama & Theatre course at Rochester College.’

Alas, his next taste of freedom and the temptation of easy money culminated in him being caught in the back of a security van full of money after the crooked driver had lured Frank in to ‘robbing’ him.

That cycle of crime ended when Synergy Theatre project visited Brixton Prison while Mr Skully was on remand for the fake robbery, to put on a production of Elmina’s Kitchen. They cast Frank in one of the lead

roles. ‘Instead of the judge sending me to prison he sent me on a theatre tour instead,’ he says now with as much surprise as he felt that day in court. The play asked the question ‘Could you be born into crime?’ and how the narrative could be changed.

The next time Frank Skully came to the attention of this publication was when he was involved in a short film about boxer Frank Lucas. This was turned into a stage play called Going For Gold at the Chelsea Theatre and garnered awards for the team that put it together: Brighton Fringe Award and three awards at the Black British Theatre Awards - best actor, best production play and best producer.

With much film and theatre work under his belt, Frank is now back on stage with Kiss Marry Kill. Written by Daphna Attias, James Baldwin and Terry O’Donovan, it tells the story of Jay and Paul, two inmates both serving life sentences for homophobic murders. Incredibly, they fall in love and seek permission to marry. Frank Skully plays the prison governor who has to make the decision whether to allow this wedding to go ahead.

The Kiss Marry Kill blurb says that the play ‘zeroes in on the limits of our compassion, challenging our assumptions and preconceptions around sexuality, and the criminal justice system.’

After we had managed to stop laughing at the idea of this former armed robber and long-term prisoner playing the role of a prison governor, I asked why he got involved: ‘It’s a fascinating story about a

world that even in prison is swept under the carpet by the powers that be, so to have a play depicting that world for the public motivated me to be a part of the process telling that story.’

Why is it fascinating?

‘It’s a fascinating story inspired by the first same-sex marriage to take place in a UK prison. Our play is a fictionalised tale that centres on Jay and Paul. We see Jay commit a horrendous LGBTQ+ hate crime and follow him into his life in prison, where he meets Paul. Slowly, they start a hidden relationship, eventually asking to get married, which has never happened in any prison, so everybody is confounded by it.

‘The cast are an amazing group of people who are putting so much energy into everything. We’re at the point where we’re making music in the rehearsal room with sound designers and Lady Lykez is writing lyrics on the fly for the production. It’s exciting.’

Are you looking forward to the tour?

‘Can’t wait! It’s going to be really special to see this story in places like Sheerness and Reading and Norwich. I think audiences are going to be buzzing.’

What next for you after this?

‘After this I start work on a national and Caribbean tour for the play Going for Gold.’

Kiss Marry Kill comes to London in April.

Stone Nest, 136 Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 5EZ from 16 April - 27 April.

Mon to Sat at 7.30pm.

Booking and tour details: danteordie.com

Photo by Danny Kaan

Teenager Sends Reaffirming Message

22 ARTS

History

By Herbie Russell

samuel Pepys (Public Domain)

AccorDing to his legendary diary, written between 1660 and 1669, Samuel Pepys watched the great fire of london unfold from a tavern on the South Bank.

Historians believe the ‘ale-house’ was a pub now known as The Anchor, next to Shakespeare’s Globe.

Generations have read the famous entry, in which Pepys ‘weeps’ as a ‘horrid malicious bloody flame’ engulfs the capital.

Pepys is most strongly associated with central London where he lived and worked as a high-ranking civil servant in the navy for much of his life.

So this short passage about The Anchor is sometimes considered Pepys’ most enduring connection with south London.

In reality, while south London was far less urbanised than the north, Pepys still frequently forayed into Southwark.

So just as his diary sheds light on 17th-century England’s historic events, it also illuminates the grimy alleys of south London.

PePys’ PuBs: ‘wine anD cheese Down the Bear’ The Bear - London Bridge

© Google Maps

the Bear was based near the west side of the road at the foot of london Bridge (not an exact location) PEPyS’S LOVE of drink is hardly a secret. it’s telling that when he suspected his home was burning down during the great fire, he rushed back to bury his wine in the garden.

The Anchor - Bankside After Being the first to warn king charles ii of the great fire of London, historians believe Ewan Munro (Creative Commons)

But few pubs are mentioned in his diary as many times as the Bear which is referenced eleven times.

Established in 1319, the Bear was based at the southern foot of the old London Bridge, on the west side of the road, where the steps are today.

Fortunately, being a landing point for vessels carrying passengers across the river, Pepys had a good excuse to visit.

On June 4, 1661, he visited with his father, brother and cousin to drink wine after perusing lodgings with the English baronet Colonel Robert Slingsby.

Another time, on Thursday, September 14, 1665, he stopped by before being forced to make a treacherous journey through the hustle and bustle of London Bridge after high winds brought vessels to a standstill.

Being the height of the Great Plague of 1665, Pepys was worried that the sickness was ‘all whereabouts’ along the bridge.

Fortunately, he made the crossing unscathed, presumably fortified by the ‘piece of cheese and gill [quarter pint] of sacke [wine]’ he’d picked up moments earlier.

the anchor on the south Bank

Pepys fled to a pub now called the Anchor on Bankside.

Pepys portrays himself as playing a key role in the King’s strategy for tackling the fire; claiming to be the one who recommended that houses be pulled down to stop it from spreading.

After playing his part in history, he watched the fire spread from safety across the river and later wrote a startling account.

‘When we could endure no more upon the water; we to a little alehouse on the Bankside, over against the Three Cranes, and there staid till it was dark almost, and saw the fire grow; and, as it grew darker, appeared

more and more, and in corners and upon steeples, and between churches and houses, as far as we could see up the hill of the City, in a most horrid malicious bloody flame, not like the fine flame of an ordinary fire.’

He continued: ‘We staid till, it being darkish, we saw the fire as only one entire arch of fire from this to the other side the bridge, and in a bow up the hill for an arch of above a mile long: it made me weep to see it.’

The King’s Head - Lambeth Pepys was something of a womaniser and his diary is littered with his overtly sexual and often questionable behaviour.

He wrote about fondling his servants’ breasts and would sometimes use his senior position at the Navy Board to cajole women into affairs.

We get another insight into this side of him during a visit to the King’s Head in Lambeth, which was possibly near St Mary’s Church - today by the Imperial War Museum.

On April 20, 1666, he met with Mrs. Martin there - a mistress of his who ran a draper’s stall in Westminster Hall.

He wrote how the pair took a boat over the river to Stangold [Stangate] and ‘after a walke in the fields to the King’s Head, and there spent an houre or two with pleasure with her, and eat a

HISTORY 23

History

diaRisT samuel PePys and his foRgoTTen souThWaRk TRaVels

What troubled Pepys ‘the more’ was the realisation that she was the ‘beautiful woman’ who lived at the White Horse Tavern on Lombard Street.

A frequent customer, he came to know the ferrymen by name; Bland and Payne being among them.

He trusted Bland so much that on September 21, 1668, he left him with gold and valuables worth £40 equivalent to nearly £8,000 today.

Pepys had feared that if he carried the goods around his pockets would be ‘cut’ by a pickpocket.

Walking the streets

eVen A wealthy gentleman like Pepys was sometimes forced to walk the streets, an experience he didn’t always enjoy.

On January 24, 1665, he walked through Horsleydown, now part of Bermondsey, on a ‘very foule, windy, and rainy’ day.

He wrote that it ‘was dangerous to walk the streets’ while ‘bricks and tiles… and whole chimneys’ were toppling to the ground.

While waking through Redriffe [Rotherhithe] at night after work, on September 19, 1662, he was glad to be guarded by ‘four armed men’.

He wrote: ‘I hear this walk is dangerous to walk alone by night, and much robbery committed here.’

PePys’ work: GettinG Down to Business The Dockyards in Rotherhithe aS SECREtaRy of the Royal Navy, Pepys was a regular visitor to redriffe where ships gathered at the dockyards.

the location of the Bear as seen on the agas map sometimes attributed to ralph agas (c.1540-1621)

tansy [a herbal pancake] and so parted’.

The Bear Garden - Bankside

the BeAr Garden, next to where southwark Bridge now stands, was not strictly a tavern but still fell firmly in the ‘pleasure’ category.

Based where an alley sharing the same name is today, it was a circular theatre where spectators watched animal sports with bulls and bears fighting to the death.

In his diary, Samuel Pepys described a visit he and his wife paid on August 14, 1666 – describing the spectacle as

‘a rude and nasty pleasure’.

It wasn’t just animals. On May 27, 1667, he appears to have watched a butcher and a waterman have a knife fight.

At one point the waterman, who was already losing, dropped his sword and the butcher, against protocol, slashed at him while he was unarmed.

Pepys described how a bloody fight erupted between spectating watermen and butchers: ‘But, Lord! to see how in a minute the whole stage was full of watermen to revenge the foul play, and the butchers to defend their fellow, though most blamed him; and there they all fell to it to knocking

down and cutting many on each side.

‘It was pleasant to see, but that I stood in the pit, and feared that in the tumult I might get some hurt.’

PePys the commuter Crossing the Thames

LIkE aNy london worker, much of Pepys’ life was spent commuting between various places on business errands.

When crossing the river he appears to have avoided using London Bridge at any cost. At that time, shops lined the bridge and he appears to have

been worried about it being a source of the plague.

And on October 26, 1664, he put his foot straight through a hole in the bridge and nearly broke his leg.

Instead, he much preferred using watermen or ‘werrymen’ - 17thcentury aquatic taxi drivers who ferried passengers between the Thames banks.

They were a good source of gossip.

On February 24, 1666, one told him the wife of the Bear’s publican had committed suicide.

Pepys wrote: ‘My waterman told me how the mistress of the Beare tavern, at the bridge-foot, did lately fling herself into the Thames, and drowned herself.’

It was here that he ordered the fitting out of the fleet for the Dutch Wars - hence Rotherhithe’s Pepys Estate is named after him.

The senior civil servant kept a close eye on the dock. On January 24, 1662, he surveyed a ship bound for Tangier, Morocco - then a British colony finding her ‘ready to sail’.

Six months later, on July 1, 1662, he wrote of ‘concerning abuse of the yard’ which a clerk warned him about during his visit to Redriffe.

Pepys excelled in his role despite the underfunding of the Navy and strategic mishaps by admirals.

An intriguing passage, written on March 19, 1662, hints at the obstacles he faced, with a colleague discussing ‘several errors in the Navy’ as they walked through Redriffe.

The Admiralty Court

in the mid-17th century, an admiralty court was based on st margaret’s hill, now Borough high street.

Pepys paid a visit on Tuesday, March 17 to witness a hearing, overseen by lawyer Dr John Exton, which he appears to have been unimpressed by.

He wrote that the meeting was ‘somewhat dull, though he [Dr Exton] would seem to intend it to be very rhetoricall, saying that justice had two wings, one of which spread itself over the land, and the other over the water, which was this Admiralty Court’.

CLASSIFIED 25

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

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Our services include: Financial Support | Advocacy | Counselling | Sheltered Housing | Homelessness | Job Coaching | Social Events | Volunteering

LPS AND SINGLES - WHOLE COLLECTIONS WELCOME

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07850 323 508 CLASSIC & UNSUAL CARS ALSO WANTED

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Visit www.scotscare.com or call 0800 652 2989

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

For our services, scan here Registered Charity No.207326.

Registered in Scotland No. SC052739.

Elim House Day Centre

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

Southwark Pensioners’ Centre Supporting older people in Southwark for over 35 years.

Offering advice, support, activities, rooms for hire and a voice for older people.

We are accepting walk-ins

Contact us on 020 7358 9502 or elimhouseoutreachworker@gmail.com Or pop into 86-88 Bellenden Road, Peckham, SE15 4RQ Website: elimhousedaycentre.com

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

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Funeral Announcement

BILLy duFFIN

RECRUITMENT

BCS Electrical and Building Services are looking to recruit an Electrical Site Manager for our Electrical upgrades contract.

Start date - April 2024.

Salary depends on experience.

3-5 years experience required.

We offer and are proud to be a part of #LondonLivingWage, #EqualOpportinity #InclusiveEmployers

BCS Electrical and Building Services It is with heavy hearts that we have to share the sad news that our Dad/Pops, Billy Duffin, sadly passed away on Saturday 16th March.

For those that knew him, you are welcome to attend his funeral.

His final journey will start by leaving 157 arnold Estate, druid Street, SE1 at 2pm on thursday 11th april.

If you wish to send flowers please send them here we are using Nancy @ Greens. The cremation will take place at Honor Oak Crematorium at 3pm.

Thanks Kelly & Joanne

are looking to recruit an Electrical Site Manager for our Damp and Mould contract.

Start date - April 2024.

Salary depends on experience.

3-5 years experience required.

We offer and are proud to be a part of #LondonLivingWage, #EqualOpportinity #InclusiveEmployers

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

WANTED RECORDS

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

Thursday, March 7th 2024

26 PUBLIC NOTICES LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (ALEXIS STREET, BOMBAY STREET, REDCROSS WAY, STONEY STREET, THE CUT, GROSVENOR TERRACE)

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (BENHILL ROAD, ST AIDANS ROAD, BELLENDEN ROAD, GLASSHILL STREET, MALTBY STREET, NEWCOMEN STREET, SCORESBY STREET, UNION STREET, GREAT SUFFOLK STREET, EWER STREET, GREEN HUNDRED ROAD)

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC)

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC)

1.

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

1.

2.

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

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

2.

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

(a) Alexis Street, between Linsey Street and St James Road (b) Bombay Street, between Blue Anchor Lane and No’s 13 (c) Redcross Way, between No’s 10 and Union Street (d) Stoney Street, between Winchester Walk and Clink Street (e) The Cut, between No’s 3 and No’s 11 (f) Grosvenor Terrace, 20m either side of bridge, located between Camberwell Road and Grosvenor Park 3.

The alternative routes for affected traffic as indicated by the signs displayed

4.

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

5.

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

6.

The works will be in operation for (2a) 8th April – 18th June (2b) 10th – 11th April (2c) 8th – 21st April (2d) 8th – 15th April (2e) 4th – 8th April (2f) 27th – 28th April 7.

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

(a) Benhill Road, between No’s 37 and no’s 41 (b) Benhill Road, junction with Benhill Road to 15m west into Owgan Close (c) St Aidans Road, between Marcus Garvey Mews and No’s 82 (d) Bellenden Road, between Holly Grove and Blenheim Grove (e) Glasshill Street, between Pocock Street and Webber Road (f) Maltby Street, between Tanner Street and Millstream Road (g) Newcomen Street, between Bowling Green Place and Tennis Street (h) Scoresby Street, between Blackfriars Road and Gambia Street (i) Union Street, between No’s 47 and No’s 49 to it’s junction with Redcross Way (j) Great Suffolk Street, between Dolben Street and Union Street (k) Ewer Street, between Union Street and bridge (l) Green Hundred Road, between Ethnard Road and Windspoint Road ‘at any time’ waiting and loading restrictions will be introduced on both sides of the carriageway (north and south side) 3.

The alternative routes for affected traffic as indicated by the signs displayed

4.

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

5.

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

Dated this 28th March 2024 Ian Law Traffic Manager London Borough of Southwark Network Management Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) BER6-ALES192-01 (2b) LBSCR13418 (2c) 40225487 (2d) 25619844 (2e) SLS00081170498-0135 (2f) LBSCR13389 Notice of application for a Premises Licence.

Notice is hereby given that Chesters (Tooting) Ltd. has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at Chesters (Tooting) Ltd trading as Chesters, 79 Mitcham Road, London, SW17 9PD for Late Night Refreshment On and Off the premises.

Sunday to Saturday 23:00 to 02:00 Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 18th April 2024 stating the grounds for making said representation to: Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 5DX or by email: licensing@merton.gov.uk The record of this application may be inspected Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays) by prior appointment at the offices of Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden,Surrey, SM4 5DX between the hours of 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Information on all new and variation applications received by the Licensing Authority can be viewed on the Council’s website www.wandsworth.gov.uk It is an offence, under section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003, to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in or in connection with an application, punishable upon conviction by an unlimited fine.

PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003 First Date of Display of this Notice: 23 MARCH 2024 Notice is given that Mr Leonard Truni has applied to London Borough of Bexley for the Variation of a Premises Licence in respect of the premises known as: The Greek Meze 2 situated at: 299 Main Road, Sidcup, DA14 6QL The application seeks permission for the following licensable activities: ● Update the layout plan ● Remove and add various management conditions attached to the licence as requested by the Police so that it reflects the current operating procedures.

Any “Other Persons” or “Responsible Authority” may make representations in writing to this application no later than: 19 APRIL 2024 To: London Borough of Bexley, Licensing Partnership, P.O. Box 182, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 1GP Telephone 01732 227004 Details of this application and the Licensing Register are available for inspection at the above address between 9am and 5pm on weekdays.

Guidance notes on “making representations” are available from the Licensing Team, or by visiting www.bexley.gov.uk Under the Licensing Act it is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application, and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction is a fine not exceeding £5,000.

6.

The works will be in operation for (2a) 15th – 17th April (2b) 18th – 20th April (2c) 15th – 19th April (2d) 15th April (2e) 11th – 12th April (2f) 17th – 18th April (2g) 11th, 18th April (2h) 18th – 19th April (2i) 12th – 19th April (2j) 15th – 16th April (2k) 16th – 17th April (2l) 8th – 19th April 7.

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

Dated this 28th March 2024 Ian Law Traffic Manager London Borough of Southwark Network Management Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) 23357599-conway (2b) 65691257-conway (2c) 000032081176-001 (2d) 32089694-S81 (2e) LBSCR13417 (2f) LBSCR13422 (2g) LBSCR13411/-1 (2h) LBSCR13425 (2i) 90240001 (2j) grt/suff/bri(2k) ewer/bri (2l) 30761-WAL-WK15

Notice of Application for a Premises Licence made under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003 Please take notice that I / we Music At St Giles Ltd Have made application to Southwark Council for a new Premises Licence in respect of St Giles' Church, Camberwell Church Street, London, SE5 8RB The relevant licensable activities and proposed times to be carried on, or on from the premises are Days Monday to Sunday

Start time 12:00

Finish time 00:00

The provision of regulated entertainment:

Monday to Sunday

12:00

00:00

Opening hours:

Monday to Saturday Sunday

10:00 08:00

00:00 00:00

The retail sale of alcohol:

A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also available on our website at http://app.southwark.gov.uk/licensing/licenseregister.asp It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above (or by email via licensing@southwark.gov.uk) and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below.

Note: It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale.

Date of application: 20th March 2024

London Borough Of Lambeth London Local Authorities Act 1991 Special Treatment Licensing

Notice of application for a Premises Licence Notice is hereby given that Argandab Limited has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at Basilico, 175 Lavender Hill, London, SW11 5TE for Late Night Refreshment - On and Off the premises Monday to Sunday 23:00 to 02:00 Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 23rd April 2024 stating the grounds for making said representation to: Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 5DX or by email: licensing@merton.gov.uk The record of this application may be inspected Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays) by prior appointment at the offices of Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden,Surrey, SM4 5DX between the hours of 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Information on all new and variation applications received by the Licensing Authority can be viewed on the Council’s website www.wandsworth.gov.uk It is an offence, under section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003, to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in or in connection with an application, punishable upon conviction by an unlimited fine.

Notice of Application for New Licence Notice is given that Dazzling Nails & Eyelashes Salon has applied to the LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH for a SPECIAL TREATMENTS LICENCE to carry out the following treatments Nails extensions, pedicures, manicures, massage at the premises 100 Acre Lane London SW2 5QN Date of application: 18/02/2024 Anyone wishing to oppose the application must give notice in writing to: Food, Health and Safety Team, London Borough of Lambeth, Civic Centre, 6 Brixton Hill, London, SW2 1EG WITHIN FOUR WEEKS OF THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE, specifying the grounds of opposition. Persons objecting to the grant of a licence must be prepared to attend in person at a public hearing before a committee of the Council. Letters of objection will be sent to the applicant inviting comments.

PUBLIC NOTICES 27

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK TOWN & COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 (as amended) PLANNING (LISTED BUILDINGS AND CONSERVATION AREAS) ACT 1990 (as amended)

The planning applications listed below can be viewed on the planning register at https://planning.southwark.gov.uk/online-applications/ You can use facilities at your local library or 'My Southwark Service Points' to access the website.

How to comment on this application: You should submit your comments via the above link. Comments received will be made available for public viewing on the website. All personal information will be removed except your postal address. Online comments submitted without an email address will not be acknowledged and those marked 'confidential' will not be considered. Written comments can be submitted to; Southwark Council, Chief executive's department, Planning division, Development Management, PO Box 64529, London SE1 5LX. Reason for publicity. The applications are advertised for the reasons identified by the following codes: AFFECT - development affecting character or appearance of a nearby conservation area; OR development affecting setting of a nearby listed building(s); DEP - departure from the development plan; EIA - environmental impact assessment (these applications are accompanied by an environmental statement a copy of which may be obtained from the Council - there will be a charge for the copy); MAJ - major planning application; STDCA - development within a conservation area; STDLB - works to or within the site of a listed building; 51 GROVE LANE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE5 8SP (Ref: 24/AP/0617) The proposed works include creating a garden access opening at basement level on the rear facade, installing new windows and replacing the existing roof on the rear extension, altering the entrance at the basement level (front of the house), and undertaking minor internal alterations. (Within: Camberwell Grove Conservation Area CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Agneta Kabele 07548097486)

residential apartments (Class C3) (four x 2bedroom units) with private amenity, cycle parking and refuse storage. (Within: Nunhead Green CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Zaib Khan 0207 525 0311) 32 NEW KENT ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 6TJ (Ref: 24/AP/0680) Display of internally illuminated advertisements at level 11 of the east and north-western elevations, the cycle entrance, ground floor northern elevation entrance and first floor western elevation entrances. Reason(s) for publicity: AFFECT (Contact: Victoria Lewis 020 7525 5410)

42 SCOTTS SUFFERANCE WHARF 5 MILL STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 2DE (Ref: 24/AP/0702) Conversion of loft above Flat 42 into additional living accommodation including the installation of dormer windows on the north and south-facing roof slopes, an additional rooflight on the eastfacing roof slope, and solar PV panels and sun pipe on the south-facing roof slope. (Within: St Saviours Dock CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Michèle Sterry 020 7525 5453)

1 DULWICH VILLAGE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE21 7BU (Ref: 24/AP/0773) Replacement of sections of existing timber fence with new timber fencing, replacement of existing pedestrian timber entrance gates with solid oak gates and new vehicle entrance gates in solid oak. (Within: Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Megan Stevens )

40 BARFORTH ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 3PS (Ref: 24/AP/0670) Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of three-storey building comprising of four

ALLEYNS SCHOOL TOWNLEY ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE22 8SU (Ref: 24/AP/0794) Construction of a timber frame extension to and

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK ST JOHN’S AND ST CLEMENT’S PRIMARY SCHOOL AREA IMPROVEMENTS The London Borough of Southwark (Charged-for parking places) (St John’s and St Clement’s PS area improvements) Order 202* The London Borough of Southwark (Waiting and Loading restrictions) (St John’s and St Clement’s PS area improvements) Order 202* 1. Southwark Council hereby GIVES NOTICE that it proposes to make the above orders under sections 6, 45, 46, 49 and 124 of and Part IV of Schedule 9 to the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as amended.

2. The effects of the (Charged-for parking places) Order would be in AMOTT ROAD, within existing Controlled Parking Zone ‘PW’ south-east side, o/s No. 47 Amott Road (Amott Road Baptist Church) reduce in length by 14 metres an existing 'shared-use' parking place (25.5 metres remain).

3. The effects of the (Waiting and Loading restrictions) Order would be: (a) in ADYS ROAD north-east side o/s St John’s and St Clement’s C of E Primary School (opposite Nos. 88 and 90 Adys Road) convert 7 metres of existing ‘timed’ waiting restriction (single yellow lines) to ‘at any time’ waiting restrictions (double yellow lines), and add new ‘timed’ loading restrictions (operating Monday to Friday between 8.00 am and 5.00 pm); and (b) in AMOTT ROAD south-east side (i) opposite Nos. 66-70 Amott Road add 14 metres new ‘at any time’ waiting restrictions to accommodate the new kerb-line and parking changes, and (ii) opposite the side of No. 61 Adys Road formalise 25 metres ‘timed’ waiting restrictions (operating Monday to Saturday between 8.30 am and 6.30 pm).

4. Southwark Council hereby GIVES FURTHER NOTICE that in ADYS ROAD on the north-east side o/s St John’s and St Clement’s C of E Primary School (i) split and reduce in length by 7 metres an existing ‘school keep clear’ marking (both separate sections will be 25.4 metres in length and will continue to operate Monday to Friday between 8.00 am and 5.00 pm); and (ii) new free cycle parking facilities (‘toast racks’) will be added in the carriageway in the area surrounding St John’s and St Clement’s C of E Primary School in ADYS ROAD north-east side opposite Nos. 102 and 104 Adys Road and in AMOTT ROAD south-east side opposite the side of No. 61 Adys Road.

NOTES: (1) ‘shared-use’ refers to parking places in which holders of a valid permit for the Controlled Parking Zone ‘PW’ or ‘pay’ paid ticket holders are permitted to park within the permitted hours. (2) All measurements are in metres and are approximate. (3) Parking charges are listed on www.southwark.gov.uk/parking 5. For more information contact Tobias Allen of the Council's Highways, Transport Projects team Highways@southwark.gov.uk .

6. Copies of the supporting documents (this Notice, the proposed Orders, and a statement of Southwark Council's reasons for making the Orders) may be found online at www.southwark.gov.uk/trafficorders; paper or digital copies of plans showing the location and effect of the Orders and the supporting documents may be requested by emailing traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk, or inspected by appointment only at: Highways, Southwark Council, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth, 3rd floor hub 2, 160 Tooley Street, London SE1 2QH - from the date of this Notice until the end of a period of six weeks from the date on which the Orders are made. Email traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk (or call 020 7525 3497) for booking details.

7. Anyone wishing to make any representations either for or to object to the proposals, may use our consultation portal at https://consultation.appyway.com/southwark; or send a statement in writing to: Traffic Order Consultations, Highways, Southwark Council, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth, P.O. Box 64529, London SE1P 5LX or traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk quoting reference ‘TMO2324023_Amott Rd area’ by 22 April 2024. Please note that if you wish to object to this proposal you must state the grounds on which your objection is made.

reconfiguration of existing Entrance Lodge; amendments to pedestrian access and landscaping. (Within: Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Chloe Rimell 0207 525 1397) Dated: 26 Mar 2024 - comments to be received within 21 days of this date.

STEPHEN PLATTS - Director of Planning and Growth

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK CRIMSCOTT STREET IMPROVEMENTS The London Borough of Southwark (Charged-for parking places) (Crimscott Street improvements) Order 2024 The London Borough of Southwark (Waiting restrictions) (Crimscott Street improvements) Order 2024 1. Southwark Council hereby GIVES NOTICE that on 28 March 2024 it has made the above Orders under sections 6, 45, 46, 49 and 124 of and Part IV of Schedule 9 to the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as amended.

2. The effect of the orders in CRIMSCOTT STREET (within Controlled Parking Zone ‘GR’), between its junction with Grange Road and its junction with Willow Walk, the purpose of which is to accommodate new servicing access and a new ‘car club’ only parking place, are:(a) on the south-east side opposite No. 21 Crimscott Street remove 8 metres of existing ‘shared-use’ parking and replace with 8 metres of new DYLs; (b) on the south-east side opposite No. 22 Crimscott Street remove 5.5 metres of existing SYLs and replace with a new ‘car club’ only parking place (5.5 metres in length) which would operate at any time and every day of the week; and (c) on the south-east side opposite Nos. 18 to 22 Crimscott Street convert a total of 41.5 metres of existing SYLs to new DYLs. NOTES: (1) ‘shared-use’ parking refers to parking places in which holders of a valid permit for the Controlled Parking Zone listed or ‘pay’ paid ticket holders are permitted to park within the permitted hours. (2) ‘SYLs’ refer to ‘timed waiting restrictions’ (single yellow lines), and ‘DYLs’ refer to 'at any time' waiting restrictions (double yellow lines). (3) All measurements are in metres and are approximate. (4) Parking charges are listed on www.southwark.gov.uk/parking 3. Copies of the Orders, which will come into force on 2 April 2024, and of all other relevant documents are available for inspection at Highways, Southwark Council, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth, 3rd floor hub 2, 160 Tooley Street, London SE1 2QH, by appointment only. E-mail traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk or call 020 7525 3497 for booking details.

4. Any person desiring to question the validity of the Order/s or of any provision contained therein on the grounds that it is not within the relevant powers of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 or that any of the relevant requirements thereof or of any relevant regulations made thereunder has not been complied with in relation to the Order/s may, within six weeks of the date on which the Order was made, make application for the purpose to the High Court.

Dated 28 March 2024 Dale Foden - Head of Service, Highways Notice of application for a Premises Licence Notice is hereby given that Bactria Limited has applied to Richmond Council for a new premises licence at NOWRUZ Restaurant, 41 London Road, Twickenham, TW1 3LP for Sale/Supply of Alcohol – On and Off the premises Monday to Sunday – 11.00 hours to 00.00 hours Late Night Refreshment – On and Off the premises Monday to Sunday – 11.00 hours to 00.30 hours Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 22nd April 2024 stating the grounds for making said representation to: Richmond 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

8. Under requirements of current access to information legislation, any letter or e-mail sent to the Councils in response to this Notice may be subject to publication or disclosure, or both, including communication to other persons affected.

The record of this application may be inspected Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays) by prior appointment at the offices of Wandsworth Licensing Authority, Regulatory Services Partnership (Serving Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils) Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden,Surrey, SM4 5DX between the hours of 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Information on all new and variation applications received by the Licensing Authority can be viewed on the Council’s website www.wandsworth.gov.uk

Dated 28 March 2024 Dale Foden - Head of Service, Highways

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.

SPORT 29

suRRey’s sTeWaRT eXPlains ‘ToughesT decision of WoRking caReeR’

© Ben Hoskins/Getty Images

By Sport Reporter

Alec stewArt, director of cricket at Surrey CCC, is to step down from his position at the end of 2024 after eleven years in the role.

As director of cricket, Stewart has steered the team to three County Championship titles to date and built a strong culture of success within the dressing room. A hallmark in that period has been the production of talent through the Surrey pathway who have joined the professional squad. Nine of those players have gone on to represent England including Ollie Pope, Sam Curran and Will Jacks.

Having played all the way through the

By John Kelly

Wanadio scored in the fourteenth and 49th minutes to keep Dulwich in with a chance of reaching the Isthmian League Premier Division play-offs as Hakan Hayrettin’s side aim for an immediate return to the National League South.

The result left Dulwich four points off fifth with seven games left.

“I apologised on Wednesday night, I think it was out of character, it wasn’t the performance that we all deserved,” Hayrettin said. “And I’m pretty sure the players wanted to put a performance in that was worthy of the shirt, and I think we did that [Saturday].

“We had some good chances even though they’re a good team. I know their manager really well, they’re a good team, a young team with running enthusiasm.

“We took our penalties, we deserved to get our penalties. But saying that, Danny Mills had two good chances.

Anthony Jeffrey, whose work-rate off the ball was really good, had three good chances. Luke had a chance. So we played well. We had to make sure without the ball to nullify what they had. They put some good corners in but we did well.

“I made a decision with some of the players, I changed it, and we got our rewards.

“I’m so pleased for the supporters that turned up here and I’m also pleased for the supporters that didn’t

an honour and a privilege to be a part of the greatest cricket club in the world.

However, the job is not one that you can just leave at the ground, as it demands 24/7 attention. As people may know, my wife has been battling cancer since 2013 and I want to give her, and my family, more of my time over the coming years than this job allows.

“I am incredibly proud of what has been achieved over the last eleven years, winning trophies as well as continuing to produce our own players through the Talent Pathway and providing players for England. Supporting young talent to develop into top-quality players is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable parts

cool hand luke

Wanadio nets twice from the spot as Hamlet bounce back

Fish settle for point

Nathan Tshola fires home

By John Kelly nAthAn tsholA scored his third goal in four games but it wasn’t enough for victory as fisher had to share the scefl Premier division spoils with kennington last weekend.

Luke Wanadio, left, and Danny Mills celebrate turn up because we’re back on track and we need to keep pushing.

One of the changes Hayrettin made was to give a debut to Peter Ojemen, who signed after his release by Dover Athletic. He came with a reference from Dover boss Jake Leberl and went straight into the defence.

Hayrettin said: “I had to make a decision after [Wednesday] night. I

of the job.

“I want to thank all the players, coaches and cricket management staff I’ve worked with for their incredible support and hardwork. I’d also like to thank everyone who has played their part in taking the club forward both on and off the field.

“I will always be available to support the Club in any way that I can and would also consider other opportunities in and around the game that work for me and the family.

“From now until my last working day, I guarantee that my commitment to the job and to the club will not diminish one bit and I am fully focussed on helping the squad to achieve more success.”

Photo by Dave Anderson

luke wAnADio scored a brace of penalties to make up for his missed spot-kick in his previous game as Dulwich hamlet bounced back from their shock defeat at kingstonian to beat Bognor regis town 2-0 at the mkm Arena last weekend.

© Mike Urban

Alec Stewart

age group cricket set up for the county, he signed his first professional contract in 1981. In a 23-year playing career for Surrey, Stewart won the County Championship title three times as well as three limited-over trophies.

Explaining his decision, Stewart said: “Without a doubt, this has been the toughest decision of my working career, but after careful consideration I will be stepping down from my role as director of cricket at the end of this calendar year. The main reason for informing the club at this point in time is to give them enough notice to find a suitable replacement.

“Since November 2013, I have given this job my total commitment and it has been

brought in Peter. I know Jake really well, he’s given me the thumbs-up, so I took him. He’s come in and done really well on his debut at left-back.

“I switched Roarie [Deacon] to rightback, I just made a decision to do that.

“I brought Adi [Shokunbi] back in, he was a bit sore last game because he didn’t play the game before that, we gave him a rest against Kingstonian

and brought him back in. We had more payers in the right positions, really, and it was a good result. We could have had a couple more [goals].

“It’s all to play for, it’s all in our hands.”

Dulwich were away at Potters Bar Town in midweek.

The Hamlet are back at Champion Hill on Saturday to face Billericay Town at 3pm.

Championships this year.

The club said: “Our swimmers train hard to achieve the times to swim against the fastest swimmers in our County, it is a big achievement. County is the first step of the competitive swim ladder, which is followed by Regionals, then Nationals and British, then European, World and Olympic events.

“Our swimmers made the top ten in eight events, and came away with one bronze medal. Next year we hope for even more success, but we are a small club and are punching above our weight.

“The Edward Sinclair event was a great success. The kids got an insight

into the life of a swimmer achieving National level and beyond. This was only possible through the Leadership Award we received via Jack Petchey, which was won by our chairman Andy Moore who puts his heart and soul into running our club.”

Southwark Aquatics is a small volunteer-run swimming club. They are SwimMark accredited with a friendly and experienced coaching team. They aim to be competitive, but in a friendly, sociable environment - at the cheapest cost locally.

If you want to swim for Southwark Aquatics, get in touch via email to: sascchairman@gmail.com

Tshola opened the scoring ten minutes in but the hosts hit back through Charlie Owen in the 55th minute.

The Fish are twelfth in the table with 48 points from 36 games as manager Ajay Ashanike plans for next season.

Also in the Premier Division, Stansfeld were beaten 4-0 at home against Hollands & Blair.

Lewis Allan, Rob Denness and Jabari Christmas had the visitors 3-0 up at the break before Kene Ukatu added the fourth on 77 minutes.

The Stans are eighteenth, just five points above bottom side Welling Town in the 21-team division.

Fisher host Holmesdale at St Paul’s on Easter Monday at 3pm.

Stansfeld are away to Corinthian at the same time.

Double Olympian inspires Southwark swimmers

By Sport Reporter

southwArk AQuAtics swimming club competitors were given an insight into the highest level of the sport after a visit from double Olympian Edward Sinclair recently.

Sinclair is a former World and European medallist and an ex-British and European record holder. He swam in a relay team for Great Britain at the 2000 Olympics and was also a member of the 2004 team.

Sinclair went to talk to the swimmers about his swim journey and give a highly

engaging motivational talk. He explained the highs and lows of the sport and the importance of having a good support structure made up of coaches, parents, volunteers and swim friends. Sinclair emphasised that to achieve high, swimmers must be prepared to put in the work.

Edwards ran a two-hour starts and turns session with 30 swimmers of varying levels. The swimmers not only went away with with tips and tricks but with signed floats and hats.

Sinclair also presented County Swimming hats to fourteen of the swimmers who qualified for the County

Edward Sinclair, middle, and SASC Coaches

30 SPORT exclusive

By Kiro Evans neil hArris has hailed ‘exceptional’ former Millwall star Jed wallace as the winger prepares for his second return to the Den.

Wallace enjoyed an outstanding five years with the Lions after being brought to the club by Harris in 2017.

The two will now face off on Good Friday as Wallace looks to keep his new side West Bromwich Albion pushing for promotion.

It will be Wallace’s second return to The Den after he assisted John Swift’s goal during West Brom’s 2-1 defeat to Millwall in October 2022.

Wallace turned 30 earlier this week and Harris said of the West Brom captain: “I thought he was exceptional for this football club. Fans are always the best people to ask for opinions on their players. But putting sentiment aside, I think 100 per cent of fans would have been Jed Wallace fans when he had a Millwall shirt on.

“For me personally he was a terrific character, an excellent professional, a real good leader of men. One of the best and most consistent Championship players with attacking output over the last seven years. A player that in my opinion has been destined to play in the Premier League for the last ten years. At the moment he’s flourishing as captain in that very talented West Brom side that are trying to get back in the Premier League. I look forward to seeing Jed. “I’ve been fortunate to work with some really good players at different levels and pound-for-pound, he has to be up there with one of the best players that I’ve managed.”

It’s been a season of transition for Wallace at The Hawthorns and he has had to play up front in recent weeks amid injuries to Baggies strikers.

But he has taken the responsibility on his shoulders and has now become the “elder statesman” in the team, according to Adrian Goldberg, host of West Brom fan podcast The Liquidator.

He told our paper: “He’s had to be very adaptable this season. He started the season in his familiar, right-sided attacking midfielder role. But as the season has gone on, we’ve had to accommodate a young lad called Tom Fellows who has come through the ranks.

We’ve also had Grady Diangana around

Jed Wallace made 260 appearances for Millwall

Welcome Back Wallace harris looking forward to seeing ‘exceptional’ former lions star

and we’ve had Mikey Johnstone come in and he has done great stuff for us on loan from Celtic.

“And we’ve also had a striker shortage.

So Brandon Thomas-Asante, our main striker this season, was injured. Daryl Dike, who would be our main striker this season, is also injured. So we needed someone to step up and operate slightly differently and because we had

so many wingers, Jed Wallace has been the preferred choice up front in recent weeks, playing as a false nine. It’s not his natural position but it’s noticeable that when he plays there although he doesn’t score many goals, we seem to score goals when he plays in that position because of his running and ability to draw players out of position.

“If you’re looking for a player who is

going to score the goal or create that magic moment, than Mikey Johnstone in recent weeks has scored some absolute worldies. Tom Fellows looks really dangerous and threatening as a player who both makes goals and score goals.

“Jed doesn’t quite make headlines in the same way but his role for the team, now he’s playing in this false nine role, is actually really important and it’s

the lonG anD short oF it

noticeable that because of his running it helps Fellows, Johnstone and Diangana have the space to go and do what they do.

“He does pop up with the occasional goal as well but I think he’s having to play the elder statesman role in the squad now. He isn’t the spring chicken running down the wing but he’s contributing in a different way and I think the supporters appreciate that.”

Longman focused on the next few games rather than his future exclusive

By Kiro Evans RyaN LONGMaN has admitted that he does not know what his future holds - leaving him determined to make the most of the next few weeks at millwall.

The 23-year-old is nearing the end of his season-long loan move at The Den and has so far played 27 times since arriving from Hull City last summer.

The versatile midfielder, who could make his 100th Championship appearance in tomorrow’s game against West Bromwich Albion, has yet to have discussions with his parent club on what might be next for him.

But Longman said he is too focused on Ryan Longman has made 27 appearances the immediate job of helping Millwall get

this season

results to get too wrapped up into future plans.

Asked about how he’s found the loan move so far, he told our paper: “It’s been better than what I could have imagined, to be fair. Obviously I would have liked to have been on the scoresheet a few more times and hopefully I can get a couple more goals before the end of the season, but I’ve enjoyed my time here.

“It’s definitely been a crazy year having three different managers and it’s been a bit of shock adapting to different styles of football but I’ve really enjoyed my time here and I’m just going to try and enjoy these last few weeks of the season.”

On Hull, he added: “I’ve not had any conversations with them at the moment, just been focusing on my football and going game-by-game. My whole attention has been full on getting the job done for

Millwall. It’s a mad game and you never know what’s going to happen.”

One negative from Longman’s time in south-east London was the uncomfortable shoulder dislocation he suffered in last month’s 1-1 draw with Preston North End, which briefly left him in such pain he felt like his “arm was falling off”.

He said: “It’s just unfortunate how it happened. It was a freak of an accident.

The Preston player has not meant it maliciously or anything. I just turned and he just hit my arm in an awkward way and my arm just sort of popped out.

“The first two minutes I thought my arm was falling off. It was horrible. It just went all numb and floppy and initially I thought I broke it. But when the doctor ran on and he started moving it a little bit and I started feeling a bit of sensation. It was a

weird feeling.”

Longman has become known for his versatility and has played in a number of different positions for Millwall this season, including wing-back and up front.

The loanee thinks it might be time to settle down on a single position and shed the reputation of being so flexible.

He said: “What I’ve learnt this season is that even though one of my biggest strengths is that I am very versatile and can play in multiple positions, I feel like that also could be my biggest weakness.

So maybe I just need to get an idea of where I want to play for the rest of my career and trying to find that one position where I can really knuckle down.

“But as of right now I’m just enjoying playing and just doing what I can for the team. Whether that’s up front, on the wing, wing-back, wherever.”

SPORT 31

‘leT’s geT sTuck in’

Joe Bryan is enjoying his first season at The Den

By Kiro Evans NIINO adOM-MaLakI scored a delightful volley to help wrap up a huge win for sutton united.

Joe Bryan ready for end of season scrap exclusive

By Kiro Evans JOE BRyaN said he is ready to “roll his sleeves up” and do what is necessary to keep Millwall safe.

The Lions head into the final eight games of the league campaign still unsure of their Championship status and among the clubs squabbling to avoid the relegation zone.

Their strong recent run of form has left them in a good position to survive but they still have work to do.

Bryan, in his first season at The Den, is keen to dig in and end the campaign on a high.

He told our paper: “It’s known as the business end of the season and we have a job to do. When you have a couple of weeks without a game, it’s easy to forget we are still in a semi-precarious position.

We’re in a good position in regards to teams around us but we’ve still definitely got a job to do and the points that we’re going to pick up in the next few games are

probably the most important points of the season.

“We’re talking about eight games left until the end of the season and that’s by no means ‘eight games left, counting down the games’. It’s more knowing we need to roll our sleeves up and get stuck in again and really pick up some points.”

Bryan has fought his way back into the side having missed three games in a row due to a retrospective ban.

The FA intervened to punish the 30-yearold after he clashed with Coventry City’s Tatsuhiro Sakamoto in Millwall’s 2-1 loss at the CBS Arena last month.

Bryan admits the incident “looked bad” but insisted there was no intention to hurt the opposition player.

He said: “I made a comment on my Instagram just because I watched the video back and the manager at the time [Joe Edwards] said ‘look, I think you might be in trouble.’

“I was sent it on Twitter and it looked really, really bad. And I’ve never played the game like that. I’ve never gone to intentionally hurt someone. Mistakes

match preview:

First goal for Lions youngster

happen in football and I extended my apologies to the boy and hopefully he accepted them. Football moved on, I served the suspension and hopefully it won’t happen again.

“Things like that happens now and again in football and you just have to deal with them. As a player of 30 years old with a bank of games behind you, I’ve dealt with most things. I’ve dealt with promotions, relegations, won the league, won a cup, injuries, play-off games, I’ve played in League Two with Plymouth and the Premier League with Fulham, I’ve played abroad and in European competitions.

“The only thing that hasn’t really happened to me is I hadn’t been sent off or been suspended. So by the law of averages it was bound to happen at some point and when those things happen in football, you just have to deal with them.

As long as you do right by your own character and the way you’ve been raised, [you accept that] mistakes happen.”

The suspension caused Bryan to miss three games after injury had already disrupted his game time this season. The

defender is grateful for the timing of the international break so he could get his body into recovery mode.

He said: “The only days as a professional footballer you feel good are normally the first three or four days of pre-season.

Especially when you’re approaching your late 20s and you’ve played a few hundred games, you’re just constantly playing with aches and pains. I think that’s easy to forget for people. Most games you’re carrying some type of tightness or injury or ailment or illness. And I’m by no means moaning about it, but it’s a common thing.”

Bryan is now focused on trying to stay in the team and impress Neil Harris.

The defender added: “The gaffer now has come in with a very simple and clear message of what he wants and how he wants to approach games and that’s working so far, so long may that continue.

“It’s a different style of football than I’ve played before but I can adapt and I can fit into that so as long as the message is clear, concise and done in a positive way, I’m all in.”

millwall vs west brom

The Us have been fighting for their lives at the bottom of the League Two table for most of the season with former Millwall striker Steve Morison drafted in at the beginning of January to lead the survival charge as manager.

Adom-Malaki told our paper last week that he was confident his new loan side would stay up.

And they are now just one point off safety after last Saturday’s crucial 3-1 win over Accrington Stanley.

Harry Smith and Omar Sowunmi gave the south London side a twogoal cushion before Adom-Malaki’s moment arrived.

Midfielder Charlie Lakin, who would end the game with three assists, lofted a ball over the top for the onrushing 20-year-old.

Playing in a more advanced leftwing position, Adom-Malaki let the ball bounce before unleashing a sumptuous dipping volley into the top corner. It was his first goal in professional football.

Sutton are attempting to chase down third-bottom Colchester United but have played three games more than their relegation rivals.

Niino Adom-Malaki is on loan at Sutton United

The Den, Friday 29 March 13:00

Baggies up first in Easter double-header

by Kiro Evans

Big points are up for grabs at both ends of the table when millwall and west Bromwich Albion go head-to-head on good Friday.

Ryan Leonard impressed in September’s 0-0 draw away at West Brom

The Lions know they still need a few more victories to be certain of their Championship status while the Baggies are looking to shed their second-tier tag and get back into the Premier League.

Eight points clear of seventhplaced Hull City, West Brom have put themselves in a strong position to be one of the four clubs in the play-offs at the end of the season.

But a trip to Neil Harris’ Millwall is not the type of encounter they would

have wanted in the run-in.

Harris has made the Lions difficult to beat with even Leeds United struggling to turn their obvious superiority into goals before the international break.

Suddenly The Den once again feels like the type of place where underprepared opposition teams can fall with regularity.

West Brom, who have lost more games than they’ve won away from home this season, will have to take their chances against a Millwall team that have proven tough to break down in recent weeks.

Carlos Corberan’s side will likely need to rely on two players who have emerged as the shining lights in the second half of the season: Tom

Fellows and Mikey Johnston.

Youth product Fellows is now a regular name on the team sheet and has four goals and three assists in the Championship since January.

Meanwhile, Celtic loanee Johnston has scored five goals in West Brom’s last six league matches and has made a habit of frequently cutting in off the flank and letting rip to great effect.

Millwall fans will need no reminder that Jed Wallace will also be among the West Brom players looking to pounce.

The last two games between these sides have ended goalless with Jake Cooper and Ryan Leonard particularly impressive during September’s 0-0 draw at the Hawthorns when Zian Flemming missed a first half penalty.

The Lions have a good record against Albion and have only lost one of their last nine games in all competitions.

Like all EFL clubs, Millwall face a double-header this weekend and go to Rotherham United on bank holiday Monday.

MATCH DETAILS

Possible Millwall starting XI: 4-4-1-1: Sarkic; Leonard, Tanganga, Cooper, Bryan; Norton-Cuffy, De Norre, Mitchell, Honeyman; Flemming; Obafemi.

Last meeting: Championship, September 23, 2023 West Brom 0-0 Millwall

INSIDE

Sport Southwark

Wanadio neTs TWice as hamleT Bounce Back

suRViVal insTincTs

By Kiro Evans neil hArris is convinced his players have the stomach for the fight as Millwall head into the most important period of their season.

Eight games remain for the Lions to drag themselves clear of the relegation zone and avoid falling into League One for the first time in seven years.

Before the defeat at Leeds United, the Millwall head coach had managed to find a way to pick up consistent points to aid the club’s bid for survival.

And he believes he’s already seen enough from his players to show him they will be able to handle the pressure during the high-stakes run-in.

He told our paper: “I’ve seen enough character, resilience, discipline and quality as well from the first five games to know we have the capabilities in the

next eight games to make an impact on our points total and gets us into a stronger position.

“We have to take it one moment at a time and game-by-game and also break down the weekend as we have two games in that period. Focus on West Brom first, and then on Rotherham. And then look where we’re at in the league table after that.

“What we’ve done really well is we’ve been really strong as a unit and kept a really good spirit in the camp. We have to make sure we continue that focus and that togetherness into what is a hugely important five-week period.”

Millwall go into the Easter weekend facing two games in four days. The Lions are part of a pack of eight clubs separated by just five points towards the bottom of the Championship.

Harris wants his players to only focus on their own games and not be distracted by the fixtures of their nearest

saville’s calf concern

Neil Harris has won three of his five games in charge so far

Harris confident that players can deal with relegation battle stress exclusive

Page 29

George Saville was on international duty with Northern Ireland

By Kiro Evans george sAVille is nursing a calf issue he picked up before the international break, neil Harris has revealed.

rivals.

He said: “There’s no point me looking at other people’s fixtures, I can’t control them. All I can control is what we do against West Brom and Rotherham and Huddersfield and so on. I focus on us.

“Ultimately you can spend hours and hours studying and trying to work out permutations and what other people are doing, but I can’t control what happens outside this building. All I can do is be the best leader for this football club and in the changing room and make the best decisions I can and try and guide us in a direction I can control.”

The international break has given clubs one last chance to have a breather before the end of the season and Harris used the opportunity to get plenty of work in on the training pitch.

The 46-year-old said: “We gave the players two days off after Leeds just to recuperate and it gave the staff a little bit of reflection and downtime as well.

Visit www.newsatden.co.uk for all the latest Millwall news online

“Then we came in for a block of work over three days and a mix between players that have played a lot of minutes having less time on the training pitch and players that haven’t played a lot of minutes having a lot of time on the training pitch and more focus on helping them to develop a bit closer to the team and making sure we hit the training loads we need to.

“International breaks can be tough and some players need it for downtime and recovery time physically and some need it for stimulation time to really push the boundaries. So it’s making sure everyone in the group gets what they need.

“And we were back in as a full group on Monday minus international players and starting to prepare for West Brom.

When you have the week after Leeds and no game on the weekend, there’s no real focus. So we had to make sure training becomes more individualised than a collective.”

The experienced midfielder, 30, missed both of Northern Ireland’s friendly matches against Romania and Scotland.

It is not clear at this stage how serious the issue is or if his absence was just a precaution.

Earlier this week, Millwall boss Harris told our paper: “George left us last week with some calf issues. So he wasn’t involved with Northern Ireland and we’ll have to see how he materialises over the coming days with Northern Ireland and ourselves leading into the weekend.”

In better injury news for the Lions, Harris believes Aidomo Emakhu could be involved in the squad for their Easter doubleheader against West Bromwich Albion tomorrow and then Rotherham United on Monday.

Emakhu, 20, has only appeared in three of the Lions’ last fourteen games and most recently had a quad injury.

Harris said: “Aidomo is back in the training group. He has the potential to be available for selection over the Easter period, whether that’s Friday or Monday.

“I wouldn’t have thought Aidomo would be back in contention for a starting place but possibly back into the squad.”

The Millwall boss added that he is hoping to get strikers Tom Bradshaw and Kevin Nisbet back by the middle of April.

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