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CANCER PATIENT SLAMS PLANS TO MOVE HIS CARE FROM ORPINGTON TO CAMBERWELL
By Cameron Blackshaw Local Democracy Reporter
A CANCER patient says his children won’t be able to visit him in hospital and his life will be put at risk if an NHS trust moves services to another site 40 minutes away.
Matthew Venner, 42, was diagnosed with stage four Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in December 2023. The Chislehurst father-oftwo currently receives regular treatment at the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH) in Orpington. But King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust plans to move cancer services to King’s College Hospital in Camberwell – around 40 minutes away by public transport or a 50-minute drive.
Matthew said: “Treatment has been tough. I’ve had nearly two years worth of various chemotherapies and new age technologies like immunotherapy, something called CAR-T therapy. I’m nearing the end of all the options.”
Matthew is severely immunocompromised, to the point his doctor advised he shouldn’t take public transport. Because of his condition, a simple cold or fever can have a serious impact on his health.
Matthew said: “Haematology patients are at a much greater risk of infection because the chemotherapy obliterates our immune system. If I get a temperature of 37.5°C, I have to get myself to A&E at the PRUH as soon as possible.
“Within four hours I need to have had various tests and be hooked up to IV antibiotics. This is for sepsis control because if I get sepsis, I am a goner.”
The first time Matthew was administered his current cancer treatment drug Nivolumab, he had a bad reaction and caught a fever. He rushed back to the PRUH where he was treated at A&E before being transferred to the hospital’s Chartwell ward, a specialist inpatient oncology unit.
Matthew spent six days on the ward receiving inpatient care. While he recovered his family—including his two children who are 8 and 12—were easily able to visit and spend time with him in the Chartwell ward.
TRUST SAYS MOVE WILL ‘IMPROVE CARE’
Last month, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, which operates PRUH, announced it was considering bringing all
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haematology inpatient cancer care it provides together at King’s College Hospital and removing it from the healthcare offering in Orpington.
This means patients like Matthew would no longer be able to get the inpatient care they need at the PRUH. Instead, they would receive that care at King’s, on Denmark Hill.
The trust has said the proposals are being developed by hospital clinicians “with the aim of improving care for patients accessing haematology inpatient services at the PRUH”. However, Matthew believes they are simply a cost-cutting exercise.
He said: “I feel let down. I feel disappointed. I stood up at the annual members’ meeting last month and I said the care that I’ve had at the PRUH and Denmark Hill under the King’s trust has been phenomenal.
“I’ve had state-of-the-art drugs. I’ve had brilliant nurses and consultants. My CNS (clinical nurse specialist) has been fantastic. I haven’t faulted anything, but now they are going to make it worse.
“I know they are going to make it worse, and they have got the audacity and arrogance to say ‘No, we are going to improve your care as a haematology patient’. I’m afraid that’s a lie. I’m incensed.”
DISTANCE AND TIME ‘TOO BIG’ FOR CHILDREN TO VISIT
Matthew has supported a petition calling for the trust to keep the specialist inpatient haematology cancer care at the PRUH which is nearing 25,000 signatures.
If this care was removed and Matthew were to fall ill again, he would receive emergency treatment at the PRUH before being transferred to King’s.
He has taken issue with both the journey itself, and the fact he will be treated at a hospital a lot further from home.
Matthew said: “They haven’t taken into any consideration the discomfort of that journey. They don’t know how much that is going to cost. Will that journey be in an immune, safe environment?”
Whenever Matthew was being treated as an inpatient at the Chartwell unit, his children spent time with him every day after school while he was recovering. Matthew said this would not be possible if he had to be treated at King’s.
He said: “They cannot do that if I’m at Denmark Hill. The distance and the time is just too big. If they get told that they can’t see daddy until the weekend, that is really hard.
“If I get an infection, or dare I say it, next
year it comes to end-of-life care, which could happen quickly with lymphoma, if that’s not here [at the PRUH] I will have my end-of-life care at Denmark Hill.”
Matthew has also disputed the trust’s claims that the proposal would “support equity of access to specialist haematology cancer care for all Bromley patients”.
Whenever he has required treatment that cannot be provided at the PRUH, he has been transferred to Denmark Hill so he feels he already gets that equity anyway.
A King’s trust spokesperson said: “[The proposals] also build on existing arrangements already in place, whereby some haematology cancer patients from the Bromley area who require highly specialist treatment are already transferred to King’s College Hospital for this aspect of their care.
“However, the proposals are still being developed, and no final decisions have been made at this stage.
“We value Mr Venner’s feedback, and we will be engaging with him, other patients who use the service, staff and stakeholders as we develop these proposals.
“We are also grateful to Mr Venner for his kind comments about the care he has received at the PRUH to date.”
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Matthew Venner poses for photos outside the Princess Royal University Hospital in Orpington Credit: Facundo Arrizabalaga/MyLondon
PARKINSON’S DISEASE PATIENT PLAYS CLARINET DURING KING’S HOSPITAL BRAIN OPERATION
By Evie Flynn
DENISE BACON, a 65-year-old Parkinson’s patient, underwent a four hour brain surgery at King’s College Hospital and played the clarinet at the same time, allowing the surgeons to see immediate results.
The retired speech and language therapist, from Crowborough in East Sussex, underwent Deep Brain Stimulation on Tuesday, 21 October.
Denise had been experiencing slowness of movement and muscle stiffness after she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2014, which affected her ability to walk, swim and play her beloved clarinet.
During the operation, Diane was able to play her clarinet and the movements in Denise’s fingers improved immediately.
Denise played the clarinet in the East Grinstead Concert Band until she had to stop five years ago, due to her Parkinson’s symptoms.
Denise was given local anaesthetic to numb her scalp and skull, but remained awake during the procedure so her symptoms could be monitored throughout.
She said: “I remember my right hand being able to move with much more ease once the stimulation was applied, and this in turn improved my ability to play
the clarinet, which I was delighted with.
“I’m already experiencing improvements in my ability to walk, and I’m keen to get back in the swimming pool, and on the dance floor to see if my abilities have improved there.”
Deep Brain Stimulation is an operation where the surgeons implanted electrodes in Denise’s brain, which were connected to a pulse generator and delivered electrical impulses to modify brain activity.
Professor Ashkan, said: “Holes half the size of a five pence piece were made in Denise’s skull after a frame with precise coordinates was placed on Denise’s head, acting as a sat nav to guide us to the correct positions within the brain to implant the electrode.
“As a keen clarinettist, it was suggested Denise bring her clarinet into the operating theatre to see whether the procedure would improve her ability to play, which was one of Denise’s main goals for the surgery.
“We were delighted to see an instant improvement in her hand movements, and therefore her ability to play, once stimulation was delivered to the brain.”
Denise opted for the rechargeable type of pulse generator battery that is implanted in her chest, which can last up to 20 years before it requires replacing, delivering a continuous electrical current to her brain.
4 NEWS
By Kevin Quinn
CHANCELLOR RACHEL Reeves is set to open a licensing free-for-all, with residents having little to no say on extended hours, loud music and how the space outside pubs and clubs will be used - as well as hiding away key local governance changes.
This controversial move would mean that plans to open a new pub or nightclub, or for an existing venue to change its opening hours, would no longer be publicised within local communities. Local councils could also keep governance changes behind closed doors.
In a bid to give those in the hospitality industry more freedom to do what they like she briefed the Mail On Sunday about the proposals without any further debate or discussion with councils and the local press who currently publish licensing notices.
Rachel Reeves dubbed her push for less regulation “pavement pints“ as she championed allowing more alfresco dining as a way of helping the beleaguered pub industry turn the corner.
Pubs have faced a massive decline in fortunes since the pandemic, but Labour proposals will only mean they can open later and use space outside, rather than address more pressing calls over business rates, National Insurance contributions and rising energy bills.
PUB INDUSTRY SAYS IT'S THE WRONG KIND OF REFORM
This month a leading pub operator said the proposed reform to alcohol licensing was “not going to drive another penny through our doors”, while “completely ignoring the far bigger challenges facing the pub and wider hospitality sector.”
Meanwhile Ash Corbett-Collins, chairman of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), said the move wouldn’t solve the fundamental challenges facing the sector and supported more transparency over a move that is unnecessarily pitting pubs against publishers.
He told the Yorkshire Post: “If your local pub is making changes, it’s important that you know them, and you can say, ‘yeah, that's a really good change. I'd like to support that change. I know that will improve our community.’
“Whatever method the Government keeps for these notices, it must be accessible to the widest range of people, so communities can buy into improving their pubs together.”
That accessibility, he argues, goes beyond the interests of landlords and councils; it’s about the relationship between pubs and community accountability.
IT WILL REALLY HARM LOCAL PAPERS
Removing newspaper notices will also hit local news publishers financially, stripping away a modest but steady source of income.
The loss would further weaken the information ecosystem that connects pubs to the people they serve.
The News Media Association said it amounted to a “betrayal of local communities and the public’s right to know.”
It would remove the need to publish licences in the local press, depriving local papers of an essential revenue source at a time when they also have been bought to near extinction in many parts of the country.
Owen Meredith, Chief Executive
of the
AXING PUB LICENSING NOTICES WOULD SILENCE YOUR VOICE
News Media Association, said: “Local pubs, like local papers, are at the heart of their communities and the government should rightly support them.
“This proposal does nothing to help either. It is not a cut to bureaucratic red tape, as framed, but a damaging assault on democratic engagement.”
THE CHANCELLOR IS RUNNING AWAY FROM DEALING WITH REAL ISSUES FACING PUBS
Brian Keely-Whiting, managing director of WH Pubs, an independent, family-run company, said: “These plans are not going to help business right now. It's going to make running the business a little bit easier, but it's not going to drive another penny through our door.
“A lot of the licensing rules were brought in for the war, and it’s never been updated. But this is a complete red herring.
“Is it going to help business or hospitality? Not on your nelly.
“I think maybe the timing of it was wrong, because we've got a Budget coming up and, sadly, I'm not hearing anything from the government that they're going to give us anything. If they give us more tax increases, there will be a tsunami of pubs closing down, especially independents, and that is the real worry.”
Ash Corbett-Collins from CAMRA stressed that licensing bureaucracy isn’t what’s driving pub closures. He says removing alcohol licensing notices is but “a small change,” and one that is unlikely to impact the day-to-day running of a local pub.
“I've never met a publican who said ‘the biggest problem for me making changes to my pub is I need to put a notice in the local newspaper,” he added.
The real issues, he says, are things like pubs “being told by the council, ‘you
can't have that outdoor seating because of some obscure old rule,’ when actually the community would probably support it if they were able to put the notice in the newspaper.”
“It's the fundamentals that need looking at, not the method of communication.”
COULD LEAD TO MORE ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
Chancellor Reeves proposals will be met with celebrations by multinational supermarkets, giant fast-food chains and big breweries as they can open up and extend hours under the radar of local residents, who have complained of rowdy and anti-social behaviour as a result of late opening hours or unlicenced music events.
Southwark Council, like many local authorities, is looking into passing a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) as it seeks to take a tough line on antisocial behaviour (ASB) across the borough.
The PSPO would list specific forms of anti-social behaviour in public spaces that local people have identified urgently needs tackling, with Southwark already listing rowdy drinking on the streets, public urination, and unlicensed music as being particular problems they want to crackdown on.
Police, who are struggling with fewer officers and rising street crime, have said an additional army of people like council officers who are able enforce powers in their neighbourhoods allows them to deal with high level crimes.
However, without the current regulations remaining as they are, many believe the problem will only get worse.
Neil Coyle, Labour MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark, whose constituency is a prime hospitality hotspot, said: “Ahead of the Budget a lot of ideas
are flying about, some of which are nonsense.
“But I will try and find out where this has come from and whether there is any truth in the proposal being considered."
He added: “As a minimum, I think there should still be a requirement for licence applications and changes to be advertised to local communities and have been raising the issue of fake licences in Bermondsey recently with the police and council.
”A clear system would help clarify issues and prevent raves and illegal activity.”
DO OUR MPS CARE?
OTHER LOCAL POLITICIANS
DODGE THE QUESTION:
We contacted five local Labour MPs about Chancellor Reeves’ proposal to do away with the publishing of licensing applications and only Bermondsey’s Neil Coyle responded.
All the MPs we contacted represent areas of Southwark and beyond which are prime hotspots for the hospitality industry – three ignored the inquiry and follow up emails entirely and one tried to evade responding. They are:
ELLIE REEVES
– Labour MP for Lewisham West and East Dulwich
She dodged giving a response, stating: ‘no proposals have been formally published, therefore it is difficult to provide further comment.’
However, it was her older sister, the Chancellor, who opted to announce the plan in an interview, rather than through a formal Parliamentary route. And MPs regularly comment on proposals that haven’t been formally published.
We went back to Ms Reeves and pointed the above out, and asked her to give us a proper response – she ignored
our inquiry.
MIATTA FAHNBULLEH
– Labour MP for Peckham
Completely ignored our email, as well as a follow up inquiry.
HELEN HAYES
– Labour MP for Dulwich and West Norwood
Responded, asking if our paper was a Dulwich constituent, then apologised for the blunder, saying her team was keen to give a response. We then sent a follow up, encouraging a response, but this was ignored.
FLORENCE ESHALOMI
– Labour MP for Vauxhall and Camberwell Green
Completely ignored our email, as well as a follow up inquiry.
The Tories have previously warned that axing the notices could threaten the future of local democracy. Shadow communities secretary James Cleverly told the PA news agency earlier this year that the proposals had been made “without any consideration on the effect on local newspapers, or how to best ensure that the public know about matters which affect their lives”.
He said: “Labour are tying them in red tape and higher taxes. Their proposed changes to licensing rules could have the perverse effect of making it harder for many pubs and clubs to operate.”
A Government spokesperson said: “These changes are about making it easier for pubs and restaurants to change their licensing conditions without unnecessary red tape.”
Comment - pitting publishers against publicans will only lead to more local papers closing
SOUTH LONDON'S BEST ROTI SPOT’S THIRTEEN
YEAR LONG TELECOM BOX STRUGGLE
EXCLUSIVE
By Evie Flynn
HERNE HILL’S Umana Yana hosted an event last Saturday to mark their astonishing 13 year struggle to remove five massive telecom boxes that block the front of their business.
Since 2012, the Guyanese eatery has been in the shadow of the telecom boxes that obstruct its view from the street on Croxted Road.
Owners Debbie and Junior have said the business has been "massively affected" by the boxes, with customers unable to see the restaurant behind the boxes unless they are on the top of a double decker bus
After years of asking Helen Hayes for help, the Dulwich and West Norwood MP finally brought a petition calling for the removal of the boxes to the House of Commons in February this year, after it was signed by over 1,700 locals.
However, despite six months passing Debbie and Junior have been passed from pillar to post. The government claims that responsibility for the boxes lies with Ofcom, the broadcast regulators. But Ofcom claims it is the government's responsibility.
The petition not only asked for the boxes to be removed but also for the government to bring forward laws to ensure this doesn’t happen in future to other businesses. In addition, it demanded that businesses be ‘duly
compensated’ by telecom companies for any disruption caused.
In collaboration with Brixton-based sound system collective, Stack Up Sound, Umana Yana raised awareness last Saturday of their campaign and welcomed supporters to the restaurant with a day of music and food.
The free event featured a selection of artists and DJs performances, including Umana Yana's co-owner Junior. Other guests included: Shumba Youth, Big Chris, Rydigan, Mighty Intrudet.
A post by this newspaper on our TikTok went viral in 2022, capturing the attention of popular rapper Central Cee, who has Guyanese heritage.
Central Cee was so touched when we highlighted Debbie and Junior's plight
on Tik Tok that he visited Umana Yana, learnt how to cook Guyanese food, and donated £15,000.
In a video shot by VICE he explained that £10,000 was to buy the solar panels she has been fundraising for, to lower her sky-high electricity bills and £5,000 for meals for people who need it in the community.
When we last asked MP Hayes what she had done to help Umana Yana over last decade, she said: “During that time, the focus has been on understanding the process that led to the cabinets being installed, seeking legal advice on the installation and lobbying the telecommunications companies who are responsible for the cabinets.”
Last year Southwark Council refused
Debbie and Junior's long-standing request to have the boxes removed, a decision that Debbie described as heartbreaking.
The council just implemented a policy that limits the development rights of telecommunication companies, meaning they will have to request planning permission to erect any future infrastructure – but that doesn’t help Debbie and Junior.
In the meantime this newspaper will continue to push MP Helen Hayes for an update - but despite the government descision being due in April she has failed to respond to our constant calls and emails, only replying with an automated statement saying she is inundated with enquiries.
Consultation launched on new express bus from Clapham to Eltham via West Dulwich
By Issy Clarke
A CONSULTATION on an express bus from Clapham to Eltham via West Dulwich has been launched by TfL, with residents asked to share their views on the plans.
TfL is inviting residents to share their views on a proposed new Superloop bus service between Clapham Junction and Eltham stations, serving a limited number of stops in Streatham, West Dulwich, Forest Hill and Catford,
primarily following the A205 South Circular Road.
The bus would run seven days a week between 5:00 am and 12:30 am every 12 minutes from Monday to Saturday. On evenings, Sundays, and early morning weekdays it would run every 15 minutes.
Only a single-decker bus is being proposed, due to the low height of the Thurlow Park Railway Bridge which forms part of the bus route. The consultation is now open
for feedback for six weeks until 30 November 2025.
The SL15 bus would form part of TfL’s Superloop network of express buses serving outer London, which now covers 203 kilometres following the addition earlier this month of the Bakerloop bus from Waterloo to Lewisham.
Geoff Hobbs, TfL’s Director of Public Transport Service Planning, said: “Building on the success of the Superloop express bus services across
outer London, we continue to look at ways in which we can improve express transport links whilst promoting more sustainable travel between busy parts across London.
“The proposed SL15 route presents a valuable opportunity to offer quicker, more direct journeys, enhancing connectivity between communities and key destinations across south London.
"We encourage all stakeholders and members of the public to take part
in the consultation and share their feedback.”
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them
Southwark Remembers
The Worshipful Mayor of Southwark, Southwark Council and the Royal British Legion, invite you to attend the borough’s Remembrance Service on Sunday 9 November 2025 at St Saviour’s War Memorial, Borough High Street, SE1.
This service will be led by a member of the clergy from Southwark Cathedral. Please gather by 10:45am.
Contact mayoral.events@southwark.gov.uk for further details of the Borough’s events.
The official borough service is traditionally attended by the First Citizen of the borough, past Mayors, Free Citizens, Honorary Aldermen, Southwark’s three MPs, the Leader of the Council and opposition parties, Southwark’s London Assembly Member, representatives from The Royal
An Armistice Service will be held will be held at West Lane War Memorial, SE16 (off Jamaica Road), on Tuesday 11 November 2025. Please gather at 10.45am. The Annual Remembrance Sunday Service will take place on Sunday 9 November 2025 for 10:45 at West Lane War Memorial. Please contact either mayoral.events@southwark.gov.uk or Gary Magold (gary.magold@btinternet.com) for more information.
Other services are being held on Remembrance Sunday, 9 November from 10.40am at: Southwark Cathedral SE1, London Bridge Station SE1, IWM HMS Belfast SE1, West Lane SE16, St Giles Church SE5, St Peters Church SE17, Kennington RBL / Branganza Street SE17, IWM London (bugler on steps only no wreath laying) SE1, Dulwich War Memorial SE21
Please check online for more details.
Members of the public are most welcome to attend these services.
British Legion, members of HM Armed Forces, members of the Emergency Services and the Representative Deputy Lieutenant.
The Royal British Legion is the national custodian of Remembrance, a role which ensures that those
who gave their lives for peace and freedom are duly remembered. With this in mind, The Worshipful the Mayor of Southwark, Councillor Sunny Lambe urges the citizens of Southwark to buy a poppy and wear it in support of the continued good work being carried out by the Royal British Legion.
HISTORIC STORE TO BE TURNED INTO 92-BED HOTEL
By Charlotte Lillywhite Local Democracy Reporter
A HISTORIC South London department store will be turned into a 92-bed hotel, despite a petition signed by 400 residents opposing it.
Wandsworth Council has approved the plans for the building that housed Morleys, in Tooting, for 70 years until the independent store shut in April.
Morleys closed the store after revealing it could not justify the funds needed to maintain and update it. Instead, Criterion Capital, which owns the Zedwell hotel chain, will convert most of the building into a hotel. Part of the ground floor will be kept for shops, with the retailers to be announced in due course.
The building’s previous owners won permission to almost completely demolish it for 24 flats in 2023, but Criterion Capital put forward plans to convert it into a hotel after buying the site. The council’s planning committee approved this scheme on Thursday (October 23).
A petition signed by 400 residents had raised concerns about the plans, particularly that the hotel would be turned into temporary accommodation once permission was granted.
Labour councillor Sean Lawless said residents were concerned due to the recent outcome of a similar scheme, where a new hotel in Tooting was being converted to temporary accommodation as there wasn’t enough demand for it. He voiced his support for that site being used as temporary accommodation, but said residents were concerned about how planning permission could be given for a
hotel in this instance when there was “no real proof” it was needed locally.
Councillor Lawless said: “If you are to accept it, then local residents demand firm conditions be placed on the site to ensure that it must be used for the purpose intended in this application –rooms to boost tourism, to attract visitors to Tooting, to spend money in our local area.”
Labour councillor Matthew Tiller added: “This does feel like a wasted opportunity to provide new housing rather than yet another hotel. It would be nice, if we possibly could, to push things in that direction.”
But planning officer Nigel Granger assured councillors the building could not be converted into another use without a separate application and major
Coffee shop, which started in a garden shed, named one of UK’s most inspiring businesses
physical changes. He said independent assessments had ruled it would not be viable to provide permanent housing on the site.
Planning documents said: “A new hotel brand will be incorporated into the development, addressing a clear market gap. By repurposing an existing building, which would otherwise be difficult to reuse, the project provides both
environmental and economic benefits.” They added: “Furthermore, the development will generate job creation, contributing to both social and economic benefits for the local community. This aligns with broader goals of supporting local employment and fostering economic growth in the area.”
It was approved with six councillors voting in favour and two against.
By Issy Clarke
A SMALL Lewisham coffee shop chain which was first started by a couple in their garden shed has been named one of the most inspiring small businesses in the UK.
Mont58 Coffee, a coffee shop and subscription service with stores in Catford and Forset Hill, was started in 2018 by husband and wife Maya Haimaneilon and Shai Eilon.
The business has grown from humble beginnings, after starting when Maya and Shai quit their full-time jobs to open a coffee shop in the garden shed of their
home in Blythe Hill.
Now, after opening two stores in the local area and a larger roastery in Ashford, Kent, their business has been recognised as one of the most inspiring in the UK by Small Business Saturday, a campaigning group which celebrates small businesses.
Commenting on the achievement, Maya said: “We’re incredibly proud to be selected as part of this year’s SmallBiz100 - it’s a real honour and a huge boost for our small but passionate team at Mont58 Coffee.
“Being recognised in this way shines a spotlight on the dedication and love we pour into what we do every day. The
Small Business Saturday campaign is such an important initiative.
“It not only champions the creativity and resilience of independent businesses across the UK, but also reminds communities how vital it is to shop local and support the businesses that bring character and heart to our high streets.” this critical final stretch of the year.”
Following a nationwide search, the London store was selected as part of the campaign group’s SmallBiz100 lineup, which showcases the most innovative and admired small businesses across the nation, as part of the count-down to Small Business Saturday on 6 December.
Lewisham residents can get rid of old mattresses for as little as £5
By Ruby Gregory Local Democracy Reporter
LEWISHAM RESIDENTS will now be able to get rid of old mattresses for as little as £5 after the local council announced it would be reducing the cost of its bulky waste collections service in a bid to reduce fly-tipping.
Lewisham Council has reduced its previous flat rate of £42 for up to four items to just £5 per item, which it hopes will make the service more affordable and fairer for residents. The cost of a fridge/freezer collection has also been reduced from £60 to £25.
The council is also considering changing the opening hours of the Landmann Way Reuse and Recycling Centre to make it easier and more accessible on weekends for residents to drop off their waste.
Louise Krupski, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Climate Action, (pictured)
said: “We have listened to residents and have analysed the cost to our service of the horrendous fly-tipping occurring in our borough. Every day we are seeing waste being mindlessly disposed of on our pavements and green spaces –spoiling our borough for everybody.
In April, the council increased the maximum fines for fly-tipping and littering to £1,000 and £200 respectively in an attempt to reduce the problem. However in the last 12 months, the council received 38,137 reports of flytipping incidents. A cabinet report noted that this figure may not add up to actual fly-tipping incidents, as residents may have reported the same issue multiple times.
The council is also looking at piloting a “bulky waste amnesty”, which will allow residents living in Bellingham and Downham, two of the borough’s fly-tipping hotspots, to get their waste collected for free.
CGI of the planned hotel on Mitcham Roa. Credit:LT2S Architecture Ltd, provided in Wandsworth Council documents
Morleys Tooting, Mitcham Road. Credit: Google Maps
COMMUTER TOLD 'INSTALLING AN EXTRA TOUCHPOINT AT NORTH DULWICH WOULD COST A WHOPPING £45K'
EXCLUSIVE
By Issy Clarke
PLEAS FOR an extra ticket reader in North Dulwich station have been dismissed as 'too expensive' by rail chiefs, who said it would cost 'tens of thousands of pounds' to put in a third barrier - despite claims that queues sometimes get so bad that commuters miss their trains.
A frustrated local resident who commutes from North Dulwich every day has described the scenes from the station during rush hour, where hordes of schoolchildren jostle with commuters to tap out using just two ticket readers.
One recent video taken during peak hours showed the stairway and corridor leading from the platforms to the ticket hall crammed with passengers queuing to leave the station.
“It sounds like a first world problem, but sometimes you're sat there for ten minutes just waiting to touch in,” said Dulwich resident Shawn Atkinson.
Shawn says he now gets to the station 15 minutes early every morning to avoid missing his 8.06 train to London Bridge due to the queues.
“As soon as the 8am train pulls in it drops off a thousand schoolchildren, who are all leaving in a perfectly orderly way, but because there are not enough ticket
barriers the station just becomes a zoo."
He added that one of the touchpads was regularly out of order, meaning there was often just one ticket gate to serve hundreds of passengers coming in and out of the station.
Bafflingly, when Shawn appealed to Southern Rail to install an extra touchpoint to reduce some of the congestion, he claims he was told the cost of doing so was 'too high'.
“They said they needed to do a feasibility study to check health and safety before they can put one in and that the cost would be around £45,000.
“I was like - what? To put in an extra touch point?
“I’m a lawyer so I don't know the intricacies of running an extra electricity cable to an extra touchpoint. But I can't believe that it is a massive health and safety issue. It seems pretty basic.”
His suggestion to open the second set of doors leading out of the station was also rebuffed by the rail company, who allegedly told him it could lead to 'clashes' between people leaving the station and passengers using the ticket office.
A spokesperson for Govia Thameslink Railway, which owns Southern Rail, said:
“We have reviewed use of the touchpoints at North Dulwich and recognise the benefit that a third could bring for a short period of time in the peak.
“However, as the railway is publicly
funded we need to prioritise where we invest money to deliver the greatest benefits for our customers. Unfortunately, not all improvements are financially feasible each year.
“We will continue to explore ways to ease congestion at the station.”
It is not the first time calls for an upgrade of the Grade II listed Victorian station have been blocked by rail chiefs.
Residents have spent years calling on the government to prioritise the station for step-free access. Its two platforms
can currently can only be reached by imposing flights of stairs.
The government allocates funding to rail stations for step-free access via a national scheme called Access for All.
Rail operating companies can bid for funding and stations are chosen based on indicators such as footfall, and whether the bid has the backing of the local MP.
But progress of the scheme has stalled in recent years. Last year, it was revealed by the Disability News Service that Network Rail had underspent by £65 million in the
five years to 2024. A spokesperson said this was because the complexity of some schemes meant that upgrades had taken “longer than expected”.
Network Rail selects a certain number of stations each year for accessibility upgrades using money allocated by the Department for Transport, and operating companies have to bid for funding. Southern Rail, which manages the station, said they had previously put forward the station for an upgrade, but this was unsuccessful.
Book an appointment through the NHS App, nhs.uk/bookflu, 119, at your pharmacy or GP.
participating pharmacies at nhs.uk/flu-pharmacy.
• English as a Second Language (ESOL)
• Digital skills
• Maths
• Teaching Assistant skills
• Gardening
• Sewing and Embroidery
• Wellbeing
• Arts and Crafts
Kingsdale Foundation School
First Class and Top of the Class
‘Pupils achieve exceptionally well in a wide range of subjects and attain highly at GCSE and A level.’ Ofsted 2023
Applications for Sixth Form courses are now being accepted
Take advantage of the chance to visit Kingsdale Foundation School and see for yourself how we bring the best out of our students. A tour of Kingsdale Foundation School enables you to realise why we receive such glowing reports. In the Autumn term 2025 you will have just that opportunity as we will be holding Sixth Form Open Evenings for September 2026 entry.
Harnessing talent!
Kingsdale is a dynamic, exceptionally popular and progressive school that has invested £30m to develop an award-winning educational learning environment. In our specialist academic Sixth Form Campus, students study a combination of respected traditional, performing arts and creative A Levels in addition to alternative high value Level 3 courses. Our average class sizes are approximately ten in the Sixth Form. We also pride ourselves on our excellent links to the best higher education institutions in the world. A residential trip to Harvard and Yale in the USA is organised annually.
Scholarships in Mathematics and the Creative & Expressive Arts are on offer for gifted and talented candidates who meet our entry requirements. Scholars receive free individual or small group tuition provided by expert professionals to the value of ~£1,000 per annum. Prospective students are invited to come along to our Open Evenings to explore the fantastic opportunities and inspiring state-of-the-art facilities in our dedicated Sixth Form Centre. As our most recent Ofsted Report states : ‘ ‘Pupils are rightly very proud of their school. They really enjoy their learning and talk with enthusiasm about the school’s culture of mutual respect and inclusivity.’ Ofsted 2023
Sixth Form/Year 12 Open Day Dates
Wednesday 5th November 2025 4.30-7pm / Wednesday 26th November 2025 4.30-7pm
The amazing achievement of attaining 10A*s & 4A Grades between them at A level have enabled Eve, Ben, Rosa & Freya to study Classics, Philosophy, English at Cambridge University and Economics at Oxford respectively!
By Evie Flynn
THE FREE Association, one of the UK's leading improvised comedy schools, has opened its doors to its first permanent home, after years of searching.
The Free Association (FA) has secured a 10-year lease on their purpose-built venue, in Old Union Arches. It is now home to a 104-seat theatre, a classroom, and a cafe and bar, which will also open to the public.
The FA are a leading improv acting school, founded by actor Graham Dickson and comedy duo Ivan Gonzalez and Max Olesker in 2014.
What began as a single improv comedy night above the De Beauvoir Arms in Dalston, snowballed into a powerhouse on the UK improv scene.
In just over a decade, the FA has taught thousands of students, including high profile alumni, such as Ambika Mod who starred in One Day, stand-up comedian Phil Wang and Tanya Reynolds from Sex Education.
Located just three minutes from Southwark tube station, the construction of the new venue was made possible through the support of the FA community, who helped raise £18,000 in a crowdfunding initiative.
The versatile theatre space will be used to host a variety of comedy and performing arts shows, whilst the classroom will be used to teach the FA's renowned improv school, which welcomes anyone from experienced performers to complete beginners.
Graham Dickson, who founded the Free Association, delivered a moving monologue and spoke candidly about how the team have faced numerous barriers and "11 years of heartbreak" in their search for a venue.
He said: "From rooms above pubs, to a second room above a pub, we must have had about 20 venues almost happen in the eleven years since I started the Free Association. That's what makes this feel so special."
It was opening night on Thursday 17 October with two action-packed improv comedy shows taking to the stage. The atmosphere inside the venue was euphoric, with FA students, alumni and improv-lovers all in attendance.
Two teams of six improvisers dove
AN IMPROV COMEDY SCHOOL HAS FOUND A HOME IN SOUTHWARK
head first into a completely made up scenario to an audience of just over 100 people for half an hour.
The motif was supplied by an audience member, in the first group this was "a nice thing that has happened to someone recently". One audience-member had just moved into her first place on her own, and the group spring boarded off each other in a display of comic brilliance.
The second group opted for a word from the audience, and someone shouted "robust", prompting another half an hour of hilarious and chaotic storylines.
Jonny Collis-Scurll who co-owns The Free Association added: "Our community of performers and students have long deserved a venue of this calibre, and I can't wait to showcase them in our new home!"
Comedian and actress Liz Kingsman
said: "It has been a privilege to be a part of The Free Association since they opened their doors over ten years ago.
"It is incredibly exciting to finally have a destination for the ever-growing improv community, and to safeguard the general public from the dangers of having improvisers on the streets."
The opening week will feature even more performances, including their flagship show This Doesn’t Leave The Room, which has previously welcomed special guests like Chicken Shop Date founder, Amelia Dimoldenberg. They offer a £20 taster class for 90 minutes of improv classes.
For an 8-week course, it's £325 for three hours of improv per week.
Address: Arch 26, Old Union Yard Arches, London, SE1 0LR Website: www.thefreeassociation.co.uk
Comedians James Acaster and Nish Kumar help raise £40,000 to fight Peckham redevelopment
By Issy Clarke
COMEDIANS JAMES Acaster and Nish Kumar have thrown their weight behind efforts of Peckham campaigners to resist the redevelopment of the Aylesham Centre into nearly 900 homes, just 12 per cent of which would be affordable.
Acaster, co-host of the Off Menu podcast, and Kumar, a TV presenter who also hosts the Pod save the UK politics podcast, both performed in Peckham Levels earlier this month to raise money for a local campaign set up to fight the plans.
On September 9, campaigners from Aylesham Community Action set up a crowdfunder to raise money to pay a barrister to represent their objections during the Planning
submitted a planning application to Southwark Council to build 867 new homes on the site of the Aylesham shopping centre on Rye Lane. But in December, the developer shocked residents when it lowered the proportion of affordable homes on the site from 35 per cent – the minimum required by Southwark council’s planning laws – to a meagre 12 per cent.
Berkeley then announced in May this year that they would be bypassing the council’s planning committee and heading straight to the government’s Planning Inspectorate for approval, and suggested the local authority had been too slow to consider the scheme.
However, Cllr Helen Dennis, Southwark’s Cabinet Member for New Homes, said the council had
been forced to re-consider the proposals after the developer slashed the affordable housing offering. The development has come up against a wall of opposition, with Rye Lane’s Labour ward councillors and local MP Miatta Fahnbulleh all urging the developer to revise the current planning application.
In a symbolic planning meeting held in July the council nonetheless rejected the scheme, with a planning officer’s report stating that this was largely due to the“low level of affordable housing” which would “fail to deliver sufficient public benefits to outweigh the heritage harm to the character and appearance of the Rye Lane Peckham Conservation Area.” Berkeley has consistently declined to comment when approached for comment.
Graham Dickson and actors.
Photo: Amy Heycock
16 NEWS
By Megan Norcott
THE METROPOLITAN Police
raided 120 stores across the capital last week, including two in South London, in their crackdown on shoplifting gangs reselling stolen items.
Thousands of stolen electronics, branded food and other items have been recovered under Operation Zoridon, with 32 people arrested for the handling of stolen goods, drug offences or immigration violations.
The raids conducted on 14 and 16 October came as shoplifting offences in London rose to nearly 90,000 last year, marking a 54 per cent increase from the 57,301 recorded in 2023.
Home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, responded to the raids by pledging to deploy 3,000 more neighbourhood officers.
Speaking about long-term plans to combat shoplifting, policing and crime minister, Sarah Jones, said: “For too long shop workers have been devastated by theft and abuse, with prolific offenders stealing at will believing they are above the law.
“This stops now. The government is putting more officers on the streets and arming them with new powers, including a new offence for assaulting a retail worker and scrapping the £200 limit on shop thefts being investigated.”
One Bromley store targeted by officers was found to be selling more than 150 stolen items, including LEGO sets, earphones and speakers.
Luxury watches and £70,000 in cash were also discovered at an address related to the shop.
Almost all items seized in the raids are suspected to have been taken illegally from high street retailers with thieves ‘stealing to order’.
Shop owners buying the goods often know that they have been stolen, selling them for a discounted price and pocketing the profit.
Operation Zoridon’s lead officer, Superintendent Luke Baldock, said: “Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and the gangs involved are organised and have links to drugs and violence.
“Rogue shopkeepers who trade in stolen goods are funding criminal activity and driving up costs for
‘LARGEST EVER CRACKDOWN ON ORGANISED SHOPLIFTING’
everyone. They’re keeping thieves in business at the expense of hardworking, law-abiding retailers.”
A Woolwich store targeted by the Met Police had £50,000 worth of gaming consoles hidden in a secret compartment, with 2,000 mobile phones also stashed in a concealed basement.
Another shop in Willesden was found
with around £1,500 worth of items believed to have been stolen.
These included Starbucks travel mugs, umbrellas from Waterstones and branded children’s toys.
Investigators were able to identify businesses and organised crime groups involved in shoplifting operations by using a unique synthetic liquid called SelectaDNA painted on commonly
Drones are now being used in London to catch criminals
By Issy Clarke
DRONES ARE now being used to help police respond to 999 calls in London.
The drones, currently being trialled in Islington, are remotely operated from a control room by trained specialist pilots.
They are sent out as part of an emergency response and can arrive at the scene in under two minutes, where they send back livestream footage to a control room or onto police officers’ mobile phones.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, the national lead for drones, described them as a “vital new tool to tackle crime in the capital.
“They will assist in tracing suspects, locating missing people and delivering intelligence to our officers as they
respond to Londoners when they need us most.”
So far the trial has only been rolled out in Islington, but the force say they hope to extend it to cover the West End and Hyde Park before the end of this year.
The Met claims that drones are quicker, quieter, cheaper and more environmentally friendly compared to police helicopters.
They say that drones can provide intelligence quicker - including on a suspects’ whereabouts and realtime descriptions of a suspect’s appearance.
The latest scheme - called the Drone as First Responder (DFR) programme - is not the first time the Met has used drones, however they will now be able to automatically attend a scene with minutes of an emergency call.
They previously had to be requested in advance.
The new fleet of drones are kept in charging boxes on the roofs of police buildings until they are ready to be deployed in response to emergency calls.
Superintendent Taryn Evans, who leads the NPCC Drones Programme and the pilot for the Met, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to bring the many benefits and efficiencies of the Drone as First Responder programme to London, supporting both officer and community safety.
“We’ve been running trials of the programme in several different police forces with a range of operating environments from urban to rural and the technology has proven a gamechanger in many incidents.
“This pilot with the Met brings
stolen goods. Marking the origin of the goods, the liquid helped trace stolen items taken from major retailers, and police hope it will strengthen evidence for prosecutions.
Most people arrested as part of the operation have already been bailed out, with Supt. Baldock adding: “We will now need the support of the courts to secure longer closure orders and shut down
these illicit shops for good.” James Lowman, the chief executive of the Association of Convenience Stores said he welcomed the Met’s action and would like to see other forces around the country strengthen their approach to stopping shoplifting. More than 300 officers took part in Operation Zoridon and nine stores were issued with closure orders following the raids.
together our two years of learning and development and I look forward to seeing how it can enhance the operational response.”
Other police forces, such as Norfolk Constabulary, Cleveland Police, West
Midlands Police, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and Thames Valley Police Joint Operations Unit are also in the trial phase of this technology, which has been pioneered by the NPCC.
Two suspects in Operation Zoridon’s two-day raid on 16 October 2025.
Credit: Metropolitan Police
By Kumail Jaffer
Local Democracy Reporter
POLICE UNDERFUNDING, plummeting transport revenue and overseas investors buying up London’s houses have seen the capital underperform against its full potential, the London Assembly has been told.
Panellists told City Hall’s Budget and Performance Committee that Londoners are primarily being failed by several key structural factors and challenged Sir Sadiq Khan to either address them directly or lobby ministers to help out.
The Mayor is responsible for a total budget of £20.7billion and is responsible for allocating funds for the Greater London Authority (GLA) and bodies such as Transport for London (TfL), Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) and the London Fire Commissioner.
During the committee’s annual session scrutinising this budget, stakeholders told London Assembly members about lingering issues with policing, transport, and housing Here are three things Londoners need to know about how the Mayor spends the cash around the capital.
NOT ENOUGH POLICE STAFF TO ANSWER THE PHONES AND A WHOPPING £260 MILLION SHORTFALL
The Met Police is often used as a political football in City Hall, with the Mayor’s critics consistently calling for more funding and the Mayor himself often passing the buck onto central government.
The force has been compelled to slash key elements of its structure in recent months in a desperate bid to make up a £260million shortfall.
Safer Schools Officers have been canned, dedicated antisocial behaviour (ASB) officers have been redeployed and most controversially, manned front counters at police stations have been heavily reduced.
Ian Wiggett, Associate Director at the World Policing Advisory, suggested that this wasn’t the fault of the Mayor of London or Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley.
“The police budget across England and Wales is still below 2010 levels,” he told members.
“And the way that budget has been allocated between forces has not been favourable to the Met. The capital city’s grant hasn’t kept pace, the precept has increased but is not producing the funding other forces get.
“Each year, MOPAC and the Met are having to find emergency savings elsewhere. The Met keeps operating on that basis and can’t seem to get out of this hole.”
It has meant that there is a significant shortfall in funding for rank-and-file
police staff – those who answer the phones and do the paperwork – with the Met having the lowest proportion of these employees of any force.
Mr Wiggett added: “This is the officerisation of the work force – if you want to bring it in line with other forces, you either reduce the number of officers, or increase police staff – but there’s no money to do that.
“So you have more police officers, but they are answering phones. Their effect on the streets is less than you would hope it to be.”
In a period where mass protests are commonly seen in Central London, a higher proportion of the operational budget is now going to maintaining peace and order during demonstrations.
“Policing is focused on the immediate challenge,” Mr Wiggett warned. “They keep worrying about the budget later.”
NOT ENOUGH HOMES – AND TOO MANY IN OLDER OR FOREIGN HANDS
London’s housing supply crisis is well documented, with radical reforms set to take place so the city can keep up with increasing demand for homes.
However, the London Assembly were told that stagnating housebuilding is only
WHAT LONDONERS NEED TO KNOW AFTER MAYOR’S
one part of the problem.
Antonia Jennings, CEO of Centre for London, told the Budget and Performance Committee that the capital’s “acute unaffordability crisis” has also been caused by houses falling into the wrong hands. “The supply side is one of two overlapping crisis,” she said. “There’s been a real affordability distortion, with affordability to income ratio rising from 4.5 to 12.
“There has been a huge amount of housing wealth concentration in the capital.
“Over-65s have gained £146billion in the last 10 years and in 2024, 25 per cent of property transactions involved overseas buyers.
“Together, that has created a situation where house prices have been decoupled from local demand.”
The Mayor of London has made the controversial decision to slash affordability requirements for developers, but it seems like that won’t be a silver bullet for the city’s housing market.
TFL’S RELIANCE ON FARES HAS FINALLY CAUGHT UP
On its website, TfL says it is “one of the only transport authorities in the world able to cover our day-to-day operating
costs ourselves, as well as most of our capital investment programme”.
This can be taken both as a boast and a complaint. Around 60 per cent of operating income is generated by fares, far more than the transport body’s international counterparts.
Rider numbers have steadily increased since the UK came out of lockdown permanently but are still slightly below pre-pandemic levels.
Panellists suggested that with commuters unlikely to return to a fiveday pattern anytime soon, TfL needs to look at “diversifying their sources of income” to be less reliant on fares.
There is also the question of whether to effectively punish Londoners by increasing fares to make up TfL’s shortfall, or to try and boost rider numbers by freezing or reducing fares.
Jonathan Seager, Programme Director at BusinessLDN, said: “It is tempting to slash fares – but that means you are slashing investment. TfL must think about diversifying their sources of revenue beyond that.”
There were also calls for reforming various concessions enjoyed by different demographics.
In August, the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) revealed that
the discounted 60+ Oyster card has cost the authority £206million in the last three years.
“There are some oddities in the system – if you’re over a certain age and a higher rate taxpayer, you get free travel into Central London,” Mr Seagar said. On the other end of the spectrum, those struggling financially are avoiding the Tube and must be encouraged back on, Assembly Members were told.
“The poorest Londoners pay the most for travel in the capital – 18 per cent of their income compared to 11 per cent for the average Londoner,” Ms Jennings said.
“Prioritisation of those at the bottom must remain high. While fare freezes do a lot, they are costly – there could be a more progressive application.
“Free and concessionary travel must be protected and a low income discount could be introduced.”
Tony Travers, the Director of LSE London, added: “What is linked to ridership is the health of the London economy – if it is growing, fare income will grow. But disposable income has not been growing fast enough, and combined with the pandemic, fare income has not increased as it has done in the last decade.”
Paris-like mid-rise developments could be the solution to London’s housing crisis
By Kumail Jaffer
Local Democracy Reporter
LONDON MUST look to Paris and Auckland as examples of swapping tower blocks for midrise buildings in order to solve the capital’s housing crisis, the Mayor has been told.
The capital cities of France and New Zealand make use of mid-rise developments – buildings between five and nine storeys – to maximise density, as opposed to a mix of single-storey houses and high-rise tower blocks.
In 2021, 88.3 per cent of London’s homes were in low-rise buildings –
houses, bungalows, or flats in two to five-storey buildings – compared to 41 per cent in Paris, 48 per cent in New York and 62 per cent in Tokyo.
With ministers demanding London build 88,000 homes a year as part of a wider aim of building 1.5million new dwellings by 2029, the London Assembly Planning and Regeneration Committee explored whether London should target mid-rise developments to meet the target.
Nicholas Boys Smith MBE, Founder and Director of the Create Streets think tank, held up Paris as a prime example of the benefits of prioritising mid-rise building.
Their local strategy, called Le Plan local d’urbanisme (PLU), limits new building heights to 37 metres and restricts where high-rises can be built. This has led to a unique layout of tightly packed, mid-rise blocks across the city.
“Paris is building mid-rise housing of quite astonishing quality,” he told the London Assembly. “Part of this is about transport – it is easier and cheaper to build trams. These trams lead to new suburbs and neighbourhoods being created and justifies a greater density of building.”
Russell Curtis, who chairs the Barnet Quality Review Panel, said Auckland
Council’s recent move to “compel densification” around train stations has had a “profound effect on rents and house prices” in the city.
Auckland Council recently voted in favour of a housing intensification replacement plan that will see 10-15 storey buildings constructed around public transport hubs. While higher than a typical mid-rise, Mr Curtis said the principle was encouraging.
“In London, if you increased housing density by 25 per cent in areas within 800 metres from a station, you would deliver 850,000 homes,” he said.
“Even a modest increase in density in these areas would yield a significant numbers of homes.”
Closer to home, Croydon was held up as a microcosmic example of what can be achieved. A densification programme of 2,000 homes delivered within developments of fewer than 10 homes, with house prices and rents levelling off as a result.
In a written answer to the London Assembly, Sir Sadiq said: “As part of developing my next London Plan, my officers are exploring how midrise development can be encouraged across London. This will be a key part to my ambition to optimise the use of land and deliver the housing London needs in a sustainable way.”
Brockwell Hall is now open again thanks to a transformative £7.7 million investment from Lambeth Council, including £3.9 million funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and support of the Brockwell Park Community Partners. Be among the first to experience the timeless charm of this historic venue, which is beautifully restored to blend heritage with modern elegance. Whether you're planning a private celebration, a corporate or community event or simply want to explore, Brockwell Hall offers the perfect setting for any occasion. Book your event today and become part of the next chapter in Brockwell Hall’s rich history.
Established in 1813, Brockwell Hall is a stunning Grade II* listed Georgian Mansion House set centrally within the grounds of the historic Brockwell Park, surrounded by over 125 acres of abundant nature, with panoramic views of the City. Offering a variety of multipurpose spaces, Brockwell Hall is the ideal location for celebrations, conferences, and community events, with the capacity to accommodate up to 200 guests.
Contact us: venues@lambeth.gov.uk
@venuelambeth
what’s on
Review: Ragdoll at Jermyn Street Theatre
MOAR IS BURNING HER BRAND INTO THE WORLD OF THEATRE
I WENT in thinking Katherine Moar's Ragdoll was a telling of the famous 1970s' kidnap of Patty Hearst and her indoctrination into the Symbionese Liberation Army by her kidnappers that led to her robbing banks to fund their activist activities, writes Michael Holland.
I wish it had been because that is a great tale to tell. Ragdoll, however, appears to be an exercise in how to depict exactly what happened to Hearst, whose father was the Murdoch of his day, without mentioning her name, her father's name or her lairy lawyer's name, and dropping in everyone who was mad or bad in late 60s - early 70s America instead.
Ragdoll is told through Holly (Abigail Cruttenden & Katie Matsell) and Robert, her Lawyer (Nathaniel Parker & Ben Lamb), at two ages of their lives: Holly when she is in jail and on trial for armed robbery charges, and middle-aged when she is still holding on to her hatred
for the famous, high-cost lawyer who turned up with a hangover on the final day of trial for the closing speeches to the jury.
Robert, on the other hand, has had a charmed career enhanced by winning several A-List celebrity cases but now faces a potential #metoo scandal that could ruin his reputation. He wants Holly to stand up for him, 40 years after he failed to keep her out of prison. A big ask for someone who refused to answer her calls in her hours of need.
The flashbacks show us the young hotshot lawyer on a winning streak and the spoilt child not realising how much trouble she is in because she has grown up seeing how money can buy anything. The later scenes portray them as a bitter woman still feeling like the victim and a man about to lose everything he has built, an empire spotlit in a fifty grand settee that becomes a metaphor for his greed, his celebrity and having too much money.
This is only Moar's second play and after the runaway success of her
This revels in themes of infidelity and sends up the pomp and puff of masculine heroism
first, Farm Hall, she is burning her brand into the world of theatre with sharp dialogue and interesting takes on modern history.
Josh Seymour's direction ensures Ragdoll never gets dull and the performances tight with the protagonists never far away from their other selves, the connection between young and old ever-present.
I had gone along with good friend Kim, who herself spent many years behind bars for armed robbery in the 80s when everyone wanted to be part of the Boom and Bust world that London was back then.
She enjoyed it far more than me, praising the way the scenes swapped between the years enabling us to see how the younger characters formed the people they became.
I enjoyed the symbolism and how the metaphor gets it in the end.
Jermyn Street Theatre, 16B Jermyn Street, London, SW1Y 6ST until 15th November. Booking and full details: www.jermynstreettheatre.co.uk
THIS IS modern day roasting!’ declared young bard-ologist Woody as buffed-up boxers trashtalked each other before biffing in the ring. But this isn’t Caesar’s Palace Las Vegas, instead the neon signs around the stage spell out Troy, and we are seated with the other gods overlooking the groundlings huddled below us in the rain at the Globe Theatre Bankside watching heroic legends Hector and Ajax prowl the stage, write Ed & Woody Gray Director Owen Horsley has certainly stamped his mark with this spirited production of Troilus and Cressida. A giant, fractured foot remains centre stage throughout the play, a constant reminder that the Trojans are broken people, immobile and under siege from a bedraggled Greek army, their once proudly venerated colossal statues reduced to rubble. Seven years of war has taken its toll on both sides, and this revival seems appropriate in a time of unceasing global conflicts and uncertainty.
The Las Vegas lounge bar vibe and glitzy showgirl shenanigans are amplified by Richie Hart’s musical direction. Thersites, played by Lucy McCormick in full on Shakespearean fool mode, mocks the proceedings from the outset, spitting bile and spewing bawdy insights at the concept of a just and noble conflict and the wider morality of warfare. Our celebrityobsessed culture comes under fire when she doubles up her roles by playing Helen of Troy (who is actually Helen of Greece, abducted by Paris, and the reason for all this insanity), ‘the heart-blood of beauty, love’s invisible soul’.
Helen lustily relishes the spotlight while others fight and die over her.
In one scene, the face that launched a thousand ships is spotted casually launching her own fashion brand, presumably for a thousand shops. Thersites cuts to the bone, ‘Wars and lechery: Nothing else holds fashion’.
The Trojan’s male beauty contest, with generals in gaudy gold, sculpted armour, roused the rain-drenched groundlings, but Troilus and Cressida is a demanding watch. Firstly, there is no central character and tactical and philosophical discussions among the generals had me struggling to follow the true meaning at times.
Female characters are at the mercy of the weak and impotent, delusional male authority figures, shattered heroes, but Cressida and Helen’s acts are also informed by the instinct to survive assaults and power struggles as much as by their own desires. Somehow, this seems underplayed amidst all the glitz and sleaze. Cross-casting the calculating and manipulative Ulysses as a woman adds another interesting dimension.
This production revels in the themes of infidelity and sends up the pomp and puff of masculine heroism in a way that engages throughout its lengthy duration. Samantha Spiro, cross-cast as auntie Pandarus, was a real spark throughout, with her ‘Carry On, style delivery, right up until the last moments of the play when all her efforts to protect the young lovers from the destructive forces that surround them have come to nothing. She delivered the play’s epilogue on the rain-soaked stage with great emotion, berating us, groundlings and gods, for our miserable whoring and complicity. Bequeathing us her STDs, she gave a special shout-out to a Winchester goose and I thought I heard a distant cackle from the Cross Bones Graveyard, before she sang the refrain ‘Love, love nothing but love.’
We left the theatre to find our bus home as a chorus of soaked teenage groundlings lustily sung her refrain over and over into the Bankside night. Shakespeare's Globe until 26th October.
Booking and full details: https://www.shakespearesglobe.com/ whats-on/troilus-and-cressida/
Photo by Alex Brenner
Photo by Helen Murray
WHAT ARE THE OLDEST SURVIVING BUILDINGS IN PECKHAM?
This terrace was once home to wealthy Londoners and is now used as storage space for the shops below
By Evie Flynn
AN UNASSUMING group of buildings tucked away behind two shops on Peckham High Street, built in the 1720s, reveal the rich history of Peckham’s town centre.
58-62 Peckham High Street are the oldest group of buildings that still remain today, while none of them are officially the oldest building in Peckham, they are indeed the oldest buildings for which we have a decent amount of information on.
The accolade of Peckham’s oldest building goes to a standalone house, built around the same time as 58-62 Peckham High Street, located on Wood Road off Queen’s Road, next to John Donne Primary School. It is believed to have been built in the late 1600s, although there appears to be no official date. The house has recently undergone a restoration project and been turned into flats after it was left in a ‘perilous’ state of disrepair by previous occupants.
Indeed, Wood Road has undergone so many changes that 58-62 Peckham High Street is a better example of Peckham’s architecture from this period as they have retained a lot of their original features.
The terrace sits on a barely visible terrace behind large shop fronts, and is now used as storage for Afro Queen, a women’s hair store, and Tasty, an African restaurant.
The terrace has been at the centre of local restoration drives by community groups. Number 58 Peckham High Street succeeded in getting Grade II listed status in 2009, after a campaign by the local historic group Peckham Society.
In the 1930s, the Royal Commission surveyed the 17th and 18th century buildings dotted along Peckham High Street. Many of these buildings have now been lost, with some demolished as recently as the 1980s.
WHEN WAS THE TERRACE BUILT?
The terrace was built in the 1720s and incorporated building material from the 1600s, with shop fronts not added until the 1800s.
They were constructed in a period where London expanded away from the City after the Great Fire of London in 1666. After the devastating fire, Londoners decided to move away from the City to the safety of the leafy suburbs.
Peckham would have been considered almost like the countryside to those people living in the built-up and cramped mass of largely wooden houses in the city centre.
However, these houses would not be for the poor or even the upper-working-class people of 17th century London. In the 1930s, The Royal Commission said they were used as ‘dwellings’, and would have been owned by wealthy people.
The buildings survive today with much of their original fabric remaining intact, such as timber frames, twin-newel stairs, a mantleshelf, a fireplace surround and some architraves frames around the doors.
Benny O’Looney, an architect and member of the Peckham Society has been conducting research on the group of houses and has been helping to restore number 62 in his job as architect.
Benny, alongside the late Derek Kinrade and the Peckham Heritage Regeneration Partnership, published a book, Peckham’s Heritage: Past, Present and Future, which sheds light on the terrace and explores Peckham’s rich history.
PECKHAM’S HISTORY:
When this terrace was built in the early 18th century, Peckham was not the urban corner of south London it is today. Instead, it was a rural hamlet centred on the junction between Rye Lane (formerly South Street) and Peckham High Street. Peckham began life as Pecheham (Village on the River Peck), named in the Domesday Book of 1086 and was on the main road from Camberwell to Greenwich.
It was owned by King Henry I from 1100 – 1135 before he passed the small village to his son, Robert Early of Gloucester.
By the 17th century, Peckham was a market garden town with orchards, and
supplied fresh produce like figs, melons and grapes to London’s markets. This is where Melon Road, just off Peckham High street, gets its name.
Peckham also acted as a stopping point for cattle drovers who were taking their livestock to markets in the centre of London.
The large houses on the junction and surrounding areas, like 58-62 Peckham High Street, were owned and occupied by members of the gentry.
In the 19th century, the terrace had the garden of Peckham Manor to the north, Basing Manor House to the south and Hanover Chapel to the east. Basing Manor House (pictured at top of the page 21) later became a school in 1850. It was first named Manor House School and later Collyer School, named after a prominent
non-conformist William Bengo’ Collyer who left his mark in Peckham, but by the middle of the twentieth century the school had gone for good. At one point it was an employment exchange: but now it is just a car park for Lidl supermarket behind our terrace of 58-62 Peckham High Street.
WHO OWNED THE HOUSES?
As the Royal Commission in the 1930s established, the houses were likely owned by wealthy people.
An unlikely link between Peckham and Australia was made in 2009. Charles Kershaw’s 1830 painting (pictured) was carefully wrapped by Mr John Doddemeade in Perth and sent to London.
The painting was passed down within John’s ancestors, who had relocated to
Google Street view of 58-62 Peckham High Street today.
Peckham High Street in 1979. Image supplied by Peckham Society and is featured in Peckham’s Heritage- Past, Present and Future.
Google
An undated photograph of the terrace. Image provided by Peckham Society.
Australia, as he was seeking to identify the location of the houses it depicted.
Benny O’Looney and Derek Kinrade
explained that the painting came via the local History Library to John Beasley, the then editor of the Peckham Society News.
John realised he was looking at a depiction of the high street.
John Doddemeade explained that the
painter was a distant family member, who had lived in Coldharbour Lane, and his own great-great grandfather Edward Early had owned the terraced 58-66 Peckham High Street.
In the painting, the houses have weatherboard fronts, visible by the faint lines on the front of number 60-62. But, by the end of the 19th century, the front gardens in the painting had been built over with shop fronts.
This formed a shopping parade and the beginning of the High Street as we know it today, with the old houses being used for storage space for shops.
THE ‘SPECULATION’ BOOM:
The late 17th and early 18th centuries were a transformative time more widely and as the centre of Britain’s Industrial Revolution, London saw such a rapid growth that Peckham was swallowed up into the city itself.
By start of the First World War it not the leafy suburb it once was, but part of an industrial landscape that saw factory owners and then those working for them moving into streets of terrace housing built in and around the area.
Our original terrace of 58-62 Peckham High Street was built as a speculation by Isaac Bennett as part of the ‘speculation boom’, which means he built the houses before having confirmed buyers.
Speculation became increasingly common in this period, as wealthy landowners started to lease land to builders. The builders financed the construction themselves and sold the houses once completed, in a risky but lucrative business.
Many of the houses in the1600s were made of timber and plaster, yet by 1700, brick was the dominant material. This was also the beginning of terraced housing, like the houses surrounding 5862 Peckham High Street.
Many of these speculative buildings had low standards, so it’s remarkable that 58 Peckham High Street remains in such good shape today.
Before Afro Queen, the shop attached to the 18th century structure was occupied by Cracker Jack Convenience Store and has seen numerous shop fronts over the years as Peckham changed.
Claire Hegarty, a member of Peckham Heritage, put together nominations for the Council’s Local List for protection, with 58-62 Peckham High Street included on the list.
Peckham Vision, a local community group, has campaigned successfully over the years to raise local community awareness on the town centre’s rich heritage and historic buildings.
Their campaign work has saved numerous buildings and spaces from demolition including:
• The Bussey Building on Copeland Road
• Copeland Park
• 133, 135 and 125A Rye Lane
• Peckham multi-storey
• Two Art Deco buildings on Blenheim Grove
•The Old Mill Building on Blackpool Road
To learn more about Peckham’s history, you can buy the Peckham Society’s book go to peckhamheritage.org.uk/buy-our-book
Pensioner stages London bridges walk to fundraise so he can help older people write down their life stories
By Evie Flynn
THE 71-YEAR-OLD walked 13 London Bridges, from Battersea to Bermondsey, to raise a vital £3,000 so he can continue to help older people in Peckham write down their life stories.
Michael Holland runs a weekly Life Writing class at the Copleston Community Centre, teaching locals of all ages how to put memorable moments down on paper.
Due to funding shortages, the sessions were at risk and Michael, along with staff members and volunteers, decided to take on a challenge to raise £3,000.
On October 10, they set off on a ten mile walk from Battersea Bridge, aiming to finish at Tower Bridge four hours later.
He said: “Over half had experience of long walks. Others had never walked as far as this fundraiser required, but that did not stop them.”
The day was a huge success, with everyone completing the walk and all the funds were raised. But, the team experienced a few hiccups, which they can laugh about retrospectively.
After an initial confusion, some of the walkers ended up at Chelsea Bridge, rather than Battersea Bridge. Michael said: “It just meant that we all met up at Albert Bridge and began the walk an hour late, with some extra miles added to the planned ten miles. Tracy, who survived a terrible accident a while ago, which nearly stopped her walking at all, was a good inspiration to those on the day who sometimes found it hard to continue.”
Copleston Director, Julia Honess, who was one of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ walkers said, “We are so grateful for everyone who showed their support. More than 100 people donated to the fundraiser which raised more than £3,000.”
Julia was taking calls from wellwishers and supporters throughout the day, which she passed onto the rest of the team. She also provided regular motivational updates on the donations pouring in every time the walkers showed signs of fatigue.
Michael’s sessions at the Centre aim to record memories like your first day at school, first kiss, first job, weddings,
birthdays, and holidays, that can be passed down through generations.
He said: “My group ranges from 40 years old to 96 and I’ve heard some great stories, you never know what will be revealed.
“Recently, we heard about the time Yoko Ono dropped by to see Stella, Maureen’s journey from growing up in rural Ireland to building a life in Peckham, Ekins’s 40 years as a London bus driver, and Diane’s memories of being asked out by Prince Charles and losing an acting role to Judi Dench.”
As the Arts Correspondent at Southwark News, Michael recognises the importance of writing and recording. He videos the members reading out their memories, which are uploaded onto a private website for the writers and their families and friends to enjoy.
If the ten miles at the start of the month wasn’t enough, Michael recently returned from a walking holiday in Wales. The team managed to raise the full amount and express their gratitude for supporters. But, you can still donate via www.justgiving.com/and search for Copleston Centre.
Basing Manor House, High Street Peckham. Water colour painting from 1872
Peckham’s Lidl, on the site where Basing Manor House would have stood
A 1830 century painting by Charles Kershaw of 58-66 Peckham High Street. Image provided by Peckham Society.
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A3204 GLA SIDE ROAD (MONTFORD PLACE, LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF STOPPING) ORDER 2025
1. Transport for London in consultation with the London Borough of Lambeth hereby gives notice that it has made the above named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose speci
ed in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.
2. The purpose of the Order is to enable trafc signal modernisation works to take place on A3204 Kennington Lane.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from stopping in the Loading and Disabled Persons Vehicles Bay in Montford Place at the side of The Pilgrim Pub, No. 247 Kennington Lane.
The Order will be effective at certain times between 6:00 AM on 3rd November 2025 until 8:00 PM on 12th November 2025 or when the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. The prohibitions will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs.
4. The prohibitions will not apply in respect of:
(1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes;
(2) anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by Transport for London.
Dated this 31st day of October 2025
Andrew Ulph
Co-ordinator Manager Transport for London, Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A3203 GLA ROAD (LAMBETH BRIDGE, CITY OF WESTMINSTER) (TEMPORARY BANNED TURN) ORDER 2025
1. Transport for London hereby gives notice that it has made the above-named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specied in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.
2. The purpose of the Order is to allow trafc island construction works to take place on A3212 Millbank.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from turning left from A3203 Lambeth Bridge onto Millbank.
The Order will be effective from 7:00 AM on 3rd November 2025 until 7:00 PM on 30th April 2026. The prohibitions will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs.
4. The prohibitions will not apply in respect of:
(1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes;
(2) anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by Transport for London.
5. At such times as the prohibitions are in force an alternative route will be indicated by trafc signs via: Horseferry Road, Great Peter Street to normal route of travel.
Dated this 31st day of October 2025 Adam Duff Performance and Planning Manager Transport for London
Notice of application for a Premises Licence.
Notice is hereby given that NJA FOODS LIMITED has applied to Wandsworth Council for a new premises licence at PEPE’S PIRI PIRI, 67 BALHAM HIGH ROAD, LONDON, SW12 9AP for LATE NIGHT REFRESHMENTS, SUNDAY-WEDNESDAY 23:00pm to 00:00am, THURSDAY-SATURDAY 23:00pm to 02:00am
Any person who wishes to make a representation in relation to this application must give notice in writing by 18TH November 2025 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.
Transport for London Public Notice
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984
THE A202 GLA ROAD AND SIDE ROAD (CAMBERWELL NEW ROAD AND FOXLEY ROAD, LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH AND LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC AND STOPPING) ORDER 2025
1. Transport for London in consultation with the London Borough of Lambeth and the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that it intends to make the above named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specied in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.
2. The purpose of the Order is to enable surveys works to take place on the A202 Camberwell New Road.
3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from:
(1) entering, exiting, proceeding or stopping on Bolton Crescent between its junctions with the A202 Camberwell New Road and the extended eastern building line of Nos. 66 to 68 Bolton Crescent; (2) entering, exiting, proceeding or stopping on Foxley Road between its junctions with the A202 Camberwell New Road and the extended southeastern building line of No. 60 (PH) Camberwell New Road;
(3) stopping at the south-western kerb-line of Foxley Road between its junctions with Cranmer Road and the A202 Camberwell New Road;
(4) stopping in the Loading Bay outside of No. 39 and 41 Camberwell New Road;
(5) stopping on the southern kerb-line of the A202 Camberwell New Road between a point 4 metres south-east of the extended common boundary of No. 92 and No. 92a Camberwell New Road and its junction with Foxley Road.
The Order will also allow all vehicles to use the westbound bus lane on the A202 Camberwell New Road between the extended common boundary of Nos. 88 and 90 Camberwell New Road and its junction with Brixton Road.
The Order will be effective between 18th November 2025 and 20th April 2026 every night 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM or when the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. The prohibition will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs.
4. The prohibitions will not apply in respect of:
(1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes;
(2) anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or a person authorised by Transport for London.
5. At such times as the prohibition is in force an alternative route will be indicated by trafc signs for Foxley Road via Camberwell New Road and Vassal Road or in reverse to normal route of travel. For Bolton Crescent via Camberwell New Road (southbound), John Ruskin Street, Dale Road, Cook's Road and St Agnes Place to normal route of travel. Or via St Agnes Place, Kennington Park Place, Brixton Road and Camberwell New Road to normal route of travel.
Dated this 31st day of October 2025 Matt Standell Planning and Performance Manager Transport for London, Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ
2. The purpose of the Order is to enable electrical vehicle charging point installation works to take place on A3 Tolworth Broadway.
The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from stopping in the Parking and Disabled Persons vehicles bay on the unnamed service road (fronting Nos.140 to 148 Tolworth Broadway.
The Order will be effective at certain times 7:00 AM on 3rd November 2025 until 7:00 PM on 3rd November 2026 or when the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. The prohibition will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall from time to time be indicated by trafc signs.
4. The prohibitions will not apply in respect of:
(1) any vehicle being used for the purposes of those works or for re brigade, ambulance or police purposes;
(2) anything done with the
FOR
CYRUS CAVIANI ( from The RONIE Ltd) has applied to the London Borough of Lambeth to vary a Premises Licence, in respect of the following premises: THE RONIE, 8–9 Streatleigh Parade, Streatham, London SW16 1EQ (Licence number: 20/01997/PRMDPS)
The nature of the variation is as follows:
To remove outdated and disproportionate conditions from the existing licence, including the requirement to:
• Conduct customer searches with a metal detector after 18:00.
• Maintain written search records.
• Employ SIA-registered door staff after 18:00.
• Ensure CCTV is monitored by a trained security officer after 18:00.
• Restrict alcohol service to seated customers having full meals. and to update the operating schedule to reflect the current use of the premises as a café, bar, and restaurant with a food-led, low-risk environment.
The record of this application may be inspected during normal office hours by an appointment at the Licensing Section, London Borough of Lambeth, 3rd Floor, Civil Centre, 6 Brixton Road, London, SW2 1EG, or via the licensing authority’s website, at www.lambeth.gov.uk/licensing
A responsible authority or any other person may make representation to the licensing authority in respect of this application. Representations must be made in writing, either by post to the above address, or by email to licensing@lambeth.gov.uk and must be received no later than 27th NOV 2025
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with a licensing application, and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for that offence shall not exceed level 5 on the standard scale (£5,000).
Transport for London Public Notice
Notice of Application to apply for a Premises Licence made under the Licensing Act 2003
Please take notice that we, Cooks Kitchen Cafes Limited have made application to the London Borough Of Merton to apply for a Premises Licence in respect of: Wimbledon Park Café, Wimbledon Park, 98 Home Park Road SW19 7HR
For:
• The sale of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises
Proposed hours of Operation:
• 1130hrs – 2000hrs Monday to Sunday Seasonal Variation during AELTC Wimbledon Tennis Championships only:
• Late Night Refreshment 2300hrs – 0500hrs daily
• Sale of Alcohol 1030hrs – 2200hrs daily
A register of all applications made with the London Borough Of Merton is maintained by: LICENSING SECTION, LONDON BOROUGH OF MERTON, 2ND FLOOR, CIVIC CENTRE, LONDON ROAD, MORDEN, SURREY, SM4 5DX
A record of this application may be inspected by appointment at Merton Civic Centre. Please email licensing@merton.gov.uk or telephone 020 8545 3969.
It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Section at the office or email address above and be received by the Merton’s Licensing Section within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below.
Note: It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine.
Date application given to the Council: 28th October 2025
LICENSING ACT 2003
APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE
Take notice that we: PHO80 LTD have made an application to Lewisham Council acting as the Licensing Authority, for a New Premises Licence in respect of 313 New Cross Road, London, SE14 6AS
The details of the application are as follows: Sale of alcohol for consumption ON the premises 11:30 – 21:30 Monday to Sunday (everyday)
The application and the Licensing Authority’s public register can be inspected at: Lewisham Council, Safer Communities Service, Licensing Authority, 4th Floor Laurence House, 1 Catford Road, SE6 4RU by appointment between Monday to Friday (except on public holidays) and between the hours of 9.00 am to 4.00 pm; or at www.lewisham.gov.uk
The last date by which responsible authorities or other persons may make representations to the Licensing Authority in relation to this application is: 18th NOVEMBER 2025
Any representations must be made in writing to the above address or by emailing licensing@lewisham.gov.uk. Please include your full name, address and postcode, including any flat number.
It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction is unlimited.
*New Premises Licence
*Variation of a Premises Licence
*Club Premises Certificate
*Variation to the Club Premises Certificate
LICENSING ACT 2003
APPLICATION FOR VARIATION OF PREMISES LICENCE
Ruta Teame has applied to the London Borough of Lambeth to vary a Premises Licence, in respect of the following premises: Red Sea Café, 33 Brixton Station Road, London, SW9 8PB
The nature of the variation is as follows:
Extended hours of sale of alcohol
Friday-Saturday 00:00 - 02:00
Late night refreshment
Friday-Saturday 00:00 - 02:00
The record of this application may be inspected during normal office hours by an appointment at the Licensing Section, London Borough of Lambeth Town Hall, Basement Room B08 & B09, 1 Brixton Hill, London, SW2 1RW, or via the licensing authority’s website, at www.lambeth.gov.uk/licensing
A responsible authority or any other person may make representation to the licensing authority in respect of this application. Representations must be made in writing, either by post to the above address, or by email to licensing@lambeth.gov.uk and must be received no later than 17/11/2025
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with a licensing application, and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for that offence shall not exceed level 5 on the standard scale (£5,000).
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC RESTRICTIONS ON NORFOLK HOUSE ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that to facilitate Thames Water works, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth after consulting Transport for London (TfL) made an Order, the general effect of which will be in Norfolk House Road, between the western kerb-line of the A23 Streatham High Road and the eastern boundary of No. 1 Norfolk House Road to: (1) introduce eastbound one-way working between the eastern boundary of No. 1 Norfolk House Road and the western kerb-line of the A23 Streatham High Road. (2) the south side, ban vehicles from entering, parking, waiting, loading, and unloading.
2. A23 Streatham High Road: (1) Prohibition of entry into Norfolk House Road. (2) Banned left turn and banned right turn into Norfolk House Road; and, (3) Close the southbound right hand filter lane to Norfolk House Road.
3. Alternative routes for affected vehicles will be available via Mount Ephraim Road, and Blakemore Road.
4. The bans will only apply at such times and to such extent as shall, from time to time, be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs.
5. The Order comes into force on 10 November 2025 and continues for a maximum duration of 3 months, or until the works have been completed whichever is sooner. In practice, the works are expected to be completed by 21 November 2025, but if the works cannot be completed or carried out during that time the Order would also have effect at a subsequent time within the maximum period of 3 months.
Dated 31 October 2025 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LICENSING ACT 2003
APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE
Opondo Real Times Services Ltd has applied to the London Borough of Lambeth for the grant of a Premises Licence, in respect of the following premises: Arch 600B Ferndale Road, SW9 8AG which would authorise the following licensable activities:
1. Recorded Music 12:00pm - 2:00am 2. Performance and Dance 12:00pm - 2:00am 3. Sale of alcohol 12:00pm - 2:00am 4. Refreshment 12:00pm - 2:00am
The record of this application may be inspected during normal office hours by an appointment at the Licensing Section, London Borough of Lambeth Town Hall, Basement Room B08 & B09, 1 Brixton Hill, London, SW2 1RW, or via the licensing authority’s website, at www.lambeth.gov.uk/licensing
A responsible authority or any other person may make representation to the licensing authority in respect of this application.
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC RESTRICTIONS, BELVEDERE ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable a crane operation
to be carried out, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth have made an Order the effect of which will be to temporarily ban vehicles from entering or proceeding in that length of Belvedere Road which lies between Milner Place and The Queen’s Walk. Pedestrian access to affected properties will be maintained.
2. Alternative routes for affected vehicles will be available via (a) Belvedere Road, Chicheley Street, York Road, Waterloo Road roundabout and Waterloo Road slip road or (b) Belvedere Road, Waterloo Road slip road, Waterloo Road roundabout and York Road.
3. The Order will come into force on 3 November 2025 and continue in force for a maximum duration of 2 months (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. In practice, it is anticipated that the works will take place between 3 and 31 November 2025 but if the works cannot be carried out or completed during that time then the Order may have effect at subsequent times within the maximum period of 2 months.
Dated 31 October 2025 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC AND PARKING RESTRICTIONS –MEPHAM STREET
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable Network Rail to carry out bridge investigation works, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth has made an Order the effect of which will be to temporarily prohibit pedestrians from proceeding in Mepham Street.
2. The Order will come into force on 5 November 2025 and continue in force for a maximum duration of 1 month (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. In practice, it is anticipated that the works will take place between 10 pm on 5 November and 6 am on 6 November but if the works cannot be carried out or completed during that time then the Order may have effect at subsequent times within the maximum period of 1 month.
Dated 31 October 2025 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 16A
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES FOR SPECIAL EVENTS –BIG SHIFT CAR FREE DAYS IN VINING STREET
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that to enable local residents to hold “Big Shift” car free special events, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth has made an Order the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicles from entering or proceeding in Vining Street.
2. The prohibition will be in force on 8 November 2025 and 13 December 2025 between the hours of 8.00am and 12.00 midnight.
3. During the periods of road closure specified in paragraph 1 above, any parking places situated within the lengths of roads will be suspended.
4. The Order comes into force on 8 November 2025 and will continue until 13 December 2025.
Dated 31 October 2025 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003
To whom it may concern: I Matthew Walden do hereby give notice that I have applied to the Licensing Authority at The London Borough of Bromley for variation of a) Premises Licence at: 57 & 59 Beckenham Road, Beckenham BR3 4PR and known as Three Hounds Bar & Brewery/Jerk Gardens The application is to: - the relevant licensable activities
Sale of alcohol on and off the premises from the following hours. Monday to Sunday - 11:00 to 23:00
Regulated Entertainment, Plays and Films Monday to Sunday - 11:00 to 23:00
Any person wishing to make representations to this application may do so by writing, stating the grounds of objection to: Licensing, Civic Centre, Churchill Court, 2 Westmoreland Road, Bromley BR1 1AS. Representations may also be sent via email to licensing@bromley.gov.uk not later than Date (6): 30th November 2025
Representations received after this date cannot be considered. All representations MUST BE IN WRITING
2.
a maximum duration of 1 month (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. In practice, it is anticipated that the works will take place between 6 and 7 November 2025 but if the works cannot be carried out or completed during that time then the Order may have effect at subsequent times within the maximum period of 1 month.
Dated 31 October 2025 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH
1.
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
Representations must be made in writing, either by post to the above address, or by email to licensing@lambeth.gov.uk and must be received no later than 16.11.2025
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with a licensing application, and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for that offence shall not exceed level 5 on the standard scale (£5,000).
A copy of the application can be viewed at the Licensing Authority’s address during normal office hours by appointment; or on the Council’s website: www.bromley.gov.uk (search applications).
It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with this application, the maximum fine on summary of conviction is currently unlimited.
2.
3.
at such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by the placing of the appropriate traffic signs and would not apply to any vehicle in connection with the filming.
4. The Order would come into force on 20 November 2025 and would continue in force for a maximum duration of 1 day.
Dated 31 October 2025 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LONDON BOROUGH OF LAMBETH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14
TEMPORARY TRAFFIC AND PARKING RESTRICTIONS –POMFRET ROAD
1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, to enable BT (Sunbelt Rentals) to carry out repair and maintenance works, the Council of the London Borough of Lambeth intends to make an Order the effect of which would be to temporarily ban vehicles from entering or proceeding in that length of Pomfret Road which lies between its junction with Coldharbour Lane and a point opposite the common boundary of Nos. 184 and 186c Coldharbour Lane.
2. Alternative routes for affected vehicles would be available via Coldharbour Lane, Luxor Street and Flaxman Road and vice versa.
3. The Order will come into force on 17 November 2025 and continue in force for a maximum duration of 1 month (to allow for contingencies) or until the works have been completed whichever is the sooner. In practice, it is anticipated that the works would take place between 17 and 18 November 2025 but if the works cannot be carried out or completed during that time then the Order may have effect at subsequent times within the maximum period of 1 month.
Dated 31 October 2025 Ben Stevens Highway Network Manager
LICENSING ACT 2003
APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE
Take notice that we: Rinds & Vines have made an application to Lewisham Council acting as the Licensing Authority, for a New Premises Licence in respect of Rinds & Vines at 74 Brockley Rise, SE23 1LN
Sale of alcohol for retail 8am - 8pm and on premises consumption until 11pm as a wine bar.
The application and the Licensing Authority’s public register can be inspected at: Lewisham Council, Safer Communities Service, Licensing Authority, 4th Floor Laurence House, 1 Catford Road, SE6 4RU by appointment between Monday to Friday (except on public holidays) and between the hours of 9.00 am to 4.00 pm; or at www.lewisham.gov.uk
The last date by which responsible authorities or other persons may make representations to the Licensing Authority in relation to this application is: 26th NOVEMBER 2025
Any representations must be made in writing to the above address or by emailing licensing@lewisham.gov.uk. Please include your full name, address and postcode, including any flat number.
It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction is unlimited.
and relocation of shed in the rear garden. 25/02988/FUL
9 Loughborough Park London SW9 8TP Replacement of the existing single-glazed timber windows and doors at the front and rear for double-glazed
25/03108/FUL
7 Claylands Place London SW8 1NL Replacement of double doors (to Flat A). 25/03043/FUL
54 Josephine Avenue London SW2 2LA Rush Common application for the erection of a single-storey ground floor rear extension to the outrigger. (Flat
11 Loughborough Park London
5
safety to the main staircase.
(Please note: The reference number for this Listed Building Consent application is 25/03263/LB but
84 Lollard Street London SE11 6PX Erection of
Parade Streatham
Lambeth SW16 1EX Variation
47 Carson Road London SE21 8HT Erection of a single storey ground
Heat Pump and associated works.
LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK
CYCLE FUTURE ROUTE 12 - ROTHERHITHE TO PECKHAM PHASE 1 ILDERTON ROAD AREA
The London Borough of Southwark (Charged-for parking places) (CFR12 Ilderton Road area) Order 202*
The London Borough of Southwark (Free parking places, Loading places and Waiting, Loading and Stopping restrictions) (CFR12 Ilderton Road area) Order 202*
The London Borough of Lewisham (Charged-for parking places) Order 202* (PTO1095)
The London Borough of Lewisham (Free parking places, Loading places and Waiting, Loading and Stopping restrictions) (CFR12 Hornshay Street) Order 202* (PTO1095)
The London Borough of Lewisham (Prescribed routes) Traffic Order 202* (PTO1095)
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 (‘the 1984 Act’), pursuant to arrangements made with the Council of the London Borough of Lewisham under section 9EA of the Local Government Act 2000, in accordance with regulation 7 of the Local Authorities (Arrangements for the Discharge of Functions) (England) Regulations 2012.
2.The effect of the London Borough of Southwark Orders would be to accommodate kerb-line changes (footway ‘build-outs’) for the installation of a segregated two-way cycle track on the north-west and western side of Ilderton Road – between a point 55 metres north-east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Old Kent Road and its junction with Hornshay Street – and a ‘build-out’ on the southern side of Hornshay Street – between the north-eastern kerb-line of Ilderton Road and a point 34 metres north-east of that kerb-line):-
(a)in HORNSHAY STREET on the south side (on the side of No. 301 Ilderton Road) within existing Controlled Parking Zone ‘OKR’, remove an existing 10 metres ‘shared-use’ (‘OKR’ permit-holders’ and Pay by Phone) parking place;
(b)to amend by relocating or reducing existing ‘at any time’ waiting restrictions (double yellow lines ‘DYLs’) (i) in ILDERTON ROAD on the north-west and western side that would be affected by the ‘build-out’ or on both sides of Ilderton Road that would be affected by the new crossings detailed below in item 4, and (ii) in HORNSHAY STREET on the southern side that would be affected by the ‘build-out’;
(c)add new ‘DYLs’ with contiguous ‘at any time’ loading restrictions (double kerb blips ‘DKBs’) (i) in ILDERTON ROAD on both sides between a point 11 metres south of the southern kerb-line of Manor Grove and a point 7.5 metres north-west of the north-western kerb-line of Hornshay Street (a combined total of approx. 112.5 metres) to accommodate the removal of an existing ‘zebra’ pedestrian crossing, and 5 metres added on the north-west side 97 metres north-east of the north-eastern kerb-line of the private road: Patterdale Road, (ii) a combined total of approx. 9 metres added to either side of the UNNAMED ACCESS ROAD to the Tustin Estate development, and 10 metres added to the south side of HORNSHAY STREET 11.5 metres east of the eastern kerb-line of Ilderton Road (to replace removed parking);
(d)to add new ‘DKBs’ on all existing ‘DYLs’ (i) in ILDERTON ROAD on both sides between a point 55 metres north-east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Old Kent Road and a point 11 metres south of the southern kerb-line of Manor Grove – except for the lengths of existing ‘DYLs’ on the south-east side from a point 33 metres north-east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Wagner Street to a point 82 metres south-west of the southern kerb-line build-out of Hornshay Street and wherever there is not a loading place, a bus stop or relocated bus stop, or ‘zebra’ or ‘toucan’ crossings (including the controlled area of those crossings, more commonly referred to as ‘zig-zags’), and (ii) in HORNSHAY STREET on both sides between the north-eastern kerb-line of Ilderton Road and a point 34 metres north-east of that kerb-line; and
(e)Southwark Council will also make the following change to the map-based schedule of the Traffic Management Orders in ILDERTON ROAD south-east side, to add an existing inset loading bay 16 metres in length that operates ‘at any time’ every day of the week (max stay 1 hour, and no return within 2 hours) 99.5 metres north-east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Wagner Street and for the use of loading and unloading only - as an administrative exercise to more closely match what is in the street - please note that there will be no physical changes to the street at this location.
3.The effects of the London Borough of Lewisham Orders would be to: -
(a)in HORNSHAY STREET on the south-west side approx. 48.5 metres east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Ilderton Road (i) to remove an existing ‘shared-use’ (‘EN’ Residents’ and Pay by Phone) parking place 5.5 metres in length, and (ii) to accommodate the removal of the parking place with the addition of 5.5 metres of new ‘DYLs’ with contiguous ‘DKBs’;
(b)to add new ‘DKBs’ on existing ‘DYLs’ in HORNSHAY STREET on all sides between a point 34 metres east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Ilderton Road and a point 9 metres south-west of the southern kerb-line of Lovelinch Close, except for any carriageway designated to existing parking (with the exception of the removed parking place as described in 3a above) and except the lengths of existing ‘DYLs’ between a point 56.5 metres north-east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Ilderton Road on the north-western side of Hornshay Street and a point 73.5 metres north-east of that kerbline, and between a point 61.5 metres north-east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Ilderton Road on the south-eastern side of Hornshay Street and a point 98.5 metres north-east of that kerb-line; and
(c)install a new mandatory westbound cycle lane in the carriageway, bounded on the southern side of HORNSHAY STREET from a point 58 metres north-east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Ilderton Road and a point 30 metres north-east of that kerb-line.
NOTES: (1) ‘DYLs’ refer to 'at any time' (operational every day of the week) waiting restrictions and ‘DKBs’ refer to 'at any time' loading restrictions. (2) All measurements are in metres and are approximate. (3) Parking charges are listed on www.southwark.gov.uk/parking; and www.lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/parking
4.Southwark Council hereby GIVES FURTHER NOTICE:-
(a)that it has approved under section 23 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, in ILDERTON ROAD the provision of (i) a new ‘toucan’ crossing – that is a signal controlled crossing for the use of both pedestrians and pedal cycles - the centre of which would be located at a point 3 metres south of the southern kerb-line build-out of Hornshay Street the controlled area, or ‘zig-zag’ markings, on which vehicles would be prohibited from stopping at all times, would be laid on the carriageway for a distance of up to 12 metres on both sides of the road either side of the crossing, and (ii)a raised ‘zebra’ pedestrian crossing the centre of which would be located at a point 73 metres south-west of the southern kerb-line build-out of Hornshay Street the controlled area would be laid on the carriageway for a distance of up to 16 metres on the south-east side and 8 metres on the north-west side north-east of the crossing, and a distance of up to 16 metres on the north-west side and 8 metres on the south-east side south-west of the crossing;
(b)remove an existing ‘zebra’ pedestrian crossing (including its controlled area) between its junction with Manor Grove and its junction with Hornshay Street;
(c)under sections 90A to 90I of the Highways Act 1980 and in accordance with the provisions of the Highways (Traffic calming) Regulations 1999, propose to construct speed tables of flat-top construction having a maximum height level with the surrounding kerb and covering the entire width of the carriageway in (the measurements above include the ramps and any existing traffic calming measures at the exact locations above will be refreshed and replaced):-
(i)in ILDERTON ROAD at the site of the new ‘toucan’ crossing described in item 4a above: extending from a point 13 metres north-west of north-western kerb-line of Hornshay Street southwestward for a distance of 28.5 metres, and extending into HORNSHAY STREET for a distance of 6.5 metres;
(ii)in ILDERTON ROAD at the site of the new ‘zebra’ crossing described in item 4a above: extending from a point 68.5 metres south-west of the southern kerb-line build-out of Hornshay Street south-westward for a distance of 8 metres; (iii) in the public highway section of PATTERSON ROAD extending from the north-western kerb-line build-out of Ilderton Road north-westward for a distance of 7 metres; and (iv) in the UNNAMED ACCESS ROAD to the Tustin Estate development extending from the north-western kerb-line build-out of Ilderton Road north-westward for a distance of 7.5 metres.
5.Lewisham Council hereby GIVES FURTHER NOTICE that in HORNSHAY STREET there will be priority working at a point 61.5 metres north-east of the north-eastern kerb-line of Ilderton Road in which priority must be given to eastbound vehicular traffic over oncoming westbound vehicular traffic, and westbound vehicular traffic must ‘give way’ to eastbound vehicular traffic.
6.For more information about these proposals please contact Jacob Larbey of the Council's Highways – Transport Projects team Highways@southwark.gov.uk
7.Copies of the supporting documents (this Notice, the proposed Orders, and a statement of Southwark Council's reasons for making the Order) may be found online at https://consultation.appyway.com/southwark; and paper or digital copies of a plan 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, Sustainability & Leisure, 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 077 3132 4742) for booking details.
8.Anyone wishing to make any representations either for or to object to any of 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, Sustainability & Leisure, P.O. Box 64529, London SE1P 5LX or traffic.orders@southwark.gov.uk quoting reference ‘TMO2526031 CFR12 Ilderton Rd area’ 20 November 2025. Please note that if you wish to object to this proposal you must state the grounds on which your objection is made.
9.Under requirements of current access to information legislation, any letter, form or e-mail sent to the Council in response to this Notice may be subject to publication or disclosure, or both, including communication to other persons affected.
Dated 31 October 2025
Steven Grayer Interim Head of Service - Highways, Environment, Sustainability & Leisure
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NEWLY FORMED GIRLS’ FOOTBALL TEAM MAKES UNBEATEN START
A newly formed under-14s girls’ football team, supported by Ballers Academy, which helped establish Canada Water FC, is making a strong impression in its first season.
The team was created following nearly three years of free weekly girls-only football sessions run by Ballers Academy, designed to encourage more girls to take part in competitive football. The talent and enthusiasm shown during these sessions led to the formation of the team earlier this season.
Now competing in the Kent Girls and Ladies Football League, the Canada Water FC under-14s have made an outstanding start, remaining unbeaten after their first six matches.
Generous sponsorship has helped the team keep costs low, making grassroots football accessible to all. Canada Water FC continues to be one of the most affordable clubs in the area.
Financial support from Explore Marketing has helped reduce costs, Prime provides the players with regular hydration drinks and branded merchandise, while TRU, the team’s kit manufacturer, has supplied highquality playing kits for the squad.
The team is still looking to add a goalkeeper and one or two outfield players. Young players interested in joining the team or taking part in Ballers Academy’s free weekly girls’ sessions are encouraged to get in touch.
For more information, email info@ballersacademy.co.uk.
Former Palace attacker Eze nets Gunners winner
THE EX-FILES
By John Kelly
OLIVER GLASNER said Crystal Palace benefitted from Eberechi
Eze’s brilliance for years and now had to suck it up after the former star Eagles attacker scored his first league goal for Arsenal against his old side.
Eze won the FA Cup for Palace with the only goal against Manchester City last May, but this time he hurt the Eagles when he fired home following Gabriel’s knock-down from Declan Rice’s free-kick. Eze joined the club he supports in a deal worth £67m in the summer.
Palace are without a win in four games, though they didn’t make it easy for a side that are now firm favourites to win the Premier League.
There was certainly no bad feeling from Glasner towards Eze, who helped the
club win their first two major trophies after they followed up their win over City by beating Liverpool in the Community Shield in August.
Glasner did feel Palace only had themselves to blame for the goal they conceded.
“I think we made two mistakes in this situation here: a silly foul, and then sleeping on the second ball,” Glasner said. “We benefitted a few times last year, and let’s say at Palace, for many yearswhenever Eberechi gets a free shot inside the box, very often it’s a goal.
“Today, we suffered from this situation, but in this situation it was clearly our mistake. But again, when you play a team like Arsenal, who are in fantastic shape at the moment, here at the Emirates, you can’t allow this, because most parts of the game I really liked what I saw.
“The performance was good. The
first half was very, very good. For 15-20 minutes we were struggling, but at the end I really loved the effort towards getting an equaliser. Over all, the performance was good in many parts of the game.
“But we have to accept at the moment that maybe Arsenal were one level higher in a few situations. The players were very disappointed in the dressing room, and I spoke to them. Just before we arrived [in February 2024], Palace lost 5-0 here, and now, it was a very tight game and we could have got the equaliser at the end.
“We are disappointed – I love this. This is the development, this is the progress, this is the ambition we all have. I think that’s why we are where we are now.”
Palace had seven attempts on David Raya’s goal but only one was on target. Arsenal had ten efforts and three on goal in a tight game.
Glasner said: “I think we could have
created more chances with the way we played, it just took us a little bit too long in a few times and they [Arsenal] are working so hard to recover.
“I’m just mentioning Ismaïla Sarr – we found him great two or three times in the second half, and Declan Rice stole the ball, but he had four or five yards advantage.
This is what we have to improve in these situations: to keep the pace of the attack high if you play teams like Arsenal.
“We will show the players – we will not really have time to train it – but we will show them. I know this group of players, they’re always listening, and then we will go the next step.”
Palace were in action against Liverpool in the last sixteen of the EFL Cup at Anfield in midweek, before hosting Brentford in the league on Saturday.
Palace’s recent wobble has come after a club-record nineteen games unbeaten in all competitions.
Glasner certainly isn’t panicking. He said: “We’ve lost three of the last four games, but when I watch the performances, I think they’re maybe better than at the beginning of the season, where we drew or won games.
“It’s now about staying calm, analysing and supporting the players. I see that our defensive shape works really well, our structure to create situations works really well. We created more set-plays I think than they had, or let’s say the same amount – and then also, [it’s about] scoring from these situations.
“When you play the top teams of the world, let’s say, you don’t get a lot, and whatever you get, you have to take if you want to win. Let’s say we were that clinical in the FA Cup final against City. Today we were not, and that’s why we lost.”
Charlton make their own Luke as subs come to rescue at Hull
By John Kelly
NATHAN JONES hailed a big week in Charlton Athletic’s season after his side claimed seven points including a late rescue act against Hull City at the MKM Stadium last Saturday.
Joe Gelhardt gave the hosts the lead a minute into the second half but the Addicks battled back impressively to bag a point through substitute Luke Berry’s second goal in three games this season as he finished from a corner in the 91st minute.
It was a positive way to round off a month that started with a 2-0 defeat at Preston North End, before
wins over Sheffield Wednesday and Ipswich Town.
It means Charlton are in the play-off places heading into November and a Valley clash with Swansea City on Saturday.
Jones made four changes to the side that defeated the Tractor Boys 3-0, with Miles Leaburn, Tyreece Campbell, Rob Apter and Harvey Knibbs starting.
Berry, James Bree, Charlie Kelman, Conor Coventry and Onel Hernandez - the latter for his debut - all came on after the break to help the visitors chase the equaliser.
“I’m super proud of the character and super proud of the game-
changers that came on that really wanted to get that game back, and we did, so I’m so, so happy in terms of that,” Jones said on Charlton TV.
“Seven points in a Championship week, with two away games in there, is a wonderful haul.
“I’m proud because it was a big week. Today was tough - it was a big effort, we freshened it up, some players who haven’t had minutes played today and we showed that we have a really, really competitive squad.
“I’m super proud of the squad and of the football club today and I’m delighted for the fans, who have travelled distances this week, and come away with something.”
Jones added: “I thought it was a fair result in the end.
“It would have been a real travesty if we had come away with nothing. We started really well in the first 10 minutes and had three big chances, but then it settled down.
“They had one chance in the first half which was a delivery in from the left-hand side and then it was always going to take a bit of quality, or a mistake, to break the deadlock and, for us, it ended up being a mistaketrying to dribble out of our own box and it gave them the opportunity to score, so I was disappointed with that because if we had done our basics, then we would have kept another
clean sheet which would have given us the chance to win the game.
“But, first and foremost, James Bree does what he does and puts in wonderful, wonderful quality and, secondly, Luke Berry arrived at the back stick at the perfect time to do that - that’s why I brought him to the football club.”
The Swans are thirteenth in the table, three points off sixth-place Charlton.
Jones said: “We’ll dust them down, give them a couple of days off and be ready to go.
“We’ve got a week to prepare for it, it’s a home game and it’s one that I’m really looking forward to”
©Keith Gillard
Eberechi Eze (10) acrobatically fi res home
The England attacker in happy times at Selhurst Park
© Keith Gillard
BALLO LOVING LIONS LIFE
The Austrian winger on joining Millwall, linkup with Zak Sturge - and why the Lions are ‘hungry for more’
Femi explains goalscoring form
By Will Scott
FEMI AZEEZ said confidence in himself and his teammates was behind his remarkable goalscoring form - and also pointed to a positional switch. Since returning from injury earlier this month, Azeez has started four consecutive games at right wing and scored in each one.
The 24-year-old now has five goal contributions on the season, only two fewer than his total from last campaign, when he predominantly played on the left.
Azeez was asked after Millwall’s 1-0 win over Leicester City what has been
behind his remarkable improvement this season.
“I guess playing on the right,” Azeez said. “The manager touched on it when I scored against West Brom. I've always played on both sides, but I think obviously switching up from the left to the right has obviously has mixed things up in the team in a way.
“We've got Thierno [Ballo] doing amazing on the left. We've obviously got Billy [Mitchell], Casper [De Norre], and Derek [Mazou-Sacko], who are doing amazing in the middle as well. Those four are able to find the passes for me and Mihailo [Ivanovic].
“But I think it's just confidence, really. I've come back from an injury. I just
want to do the best I can for this club.”
Azeez is now in his second year with the Lions after signing from League One side Reading in August 2024.
He thinks acclimatising to the Championship and to playing under Alex Neil has been a factor in his recent success.
“Coming from Reading to Millwall was a big jump,” Azeez said. “It takes a few months to acclimatise to the Championship.
“The Championship is a whole different ball game, isn't it? Having a full pre-season under my belt, working with the gaffer for those six weeks straight, definitely helps. Confidence and everything, it all adds up.
EXCLUSIVE
By Will Scott
THIERNO BALLO said moving to Millwall was the “next step” in his career, and called the Lions’ run of form “special”.
The 23-year-old winger joined the Lions on loan with an option to buy from Austrian side Wolfsberger AC in the final days of the transfer window. Ballo had previously spent four years at Chelsea’s academy, following stints at Chemie Linz, LASK, Bayer Leverkusen and Viktoria Koln. He departed Cobham in 2022 and joined Wolfsberger, where he excelled in his first three seasons of first-team football, racking up 39 goal contributions in 85 league appearances.Ballo explained why he decided to return to England.
“I know what Millwall is,” Ballo said. “The fans, the people, everyone around. I used to live in London. I think I'm ready for the next step, and I'm happy to be here.
“If you come here, you have to show yourself and show them what you can do.”
The Championship is a notoriously physical league, and Ballo has a slight frame at five feet seven inches tall.
Ballo, however, has ways of working around that.
“I'm a young player,” Ballo said. “I can play many games, because I'm fresh.
“I think the problem will be sometimes physicality, but I know how to use my body sometimes in situations. Because I'm a small player, I can play with my head and be smarter than other players. That might be the difference.”
Ballo has also adjusted well to playing for a new club and being part of a new dressing room culture.
“Since the day I came here, everyone has been helping me to get adapted,” Ballo said. “The players, the coaching staff, all the people around here, everyone helped
“I'm in a good place right now, and hopefully it continues. I'm not going to get too ahead of myself. So I'm just going to keep on being consistent mentally.”
Azeez’s goals have mostly followed a consistent theme - a ball over the top for the winger to chase on to, beating his defender for pace before a thumping finish past a goalkeeper caught in no man’s land.
“It's just knowing where I'm going to run, knowing how I'm going to outsmart the defender into thinking I'm going to be somewhere else when I'm not,” Azeez said. “Having amazing players behind me to find that pass, I think it all adds and helps contribute towards the goal.”
Asked if they practice that move on the training ground, Azeez said: “It's natural for me. I've done it all my career.
“They always say the run determines the ball, doesn't it? So if I make the run,
me to get used to it. That helped me a lot, because I was happy, and already felt settled.”
Ballo made his Lions debut off the bench against south London rivals Charlton Athletic in mid-September and has been nearly ever-present since.
He has started six out of Millwall’s next seven league matches, with Alex Neil’s side unbeaten when he makes the starting eleven.
Ballo was asked if he thinks Neil has trust in him: “It’s trust in everybody. If he picks you, you have to perform. As long as you perform, I think you've got your chance to play every game.”
Ballo has been ably supported by leftback Zak Sturge, who has started the past four games.
The duo link up well with each other on the flank, with Ballo supplying the assist for Sturge’s first goal in a Millwall shirt against West Bromwich Albion before the international break.
“In the changing room, we sit next to each other,” Ballo said. “He was at Chelsea also, so we've got the same system in us.
“I think that helps us a lot also, because at Chelsea, every youth player played the same system. We talk a lot off the pitch as well. We understand each other very well.”
The zenith of Ballo’s Millwall career so far came against Stoke City last week, where he assisted both of the Lions’ goals in a 2-0 mid-week win.
“I was happy with my performance,” Ballo said. “The whole team performed very well. We have now won four games in a row. I think that is something special. Hopefully, we can keep the run going.”
Ballo now has three assists already on the season as Millwall look to push on from four consecutive wins.
“Everyone is happy,” Ballo said. “Even in training, you can see everyone's hungry for more. We want to win more games and be up there.”
I'm going to get the ball where I want it, in a sense.”
Millwall’s recent success in the final third is a dramatic turnaround from the poor finishing that often hampered them in the opening two months of the season.
The Lions scored just six goals in their opening eight league games, one less than the seven they have netted in their past four.
Azeez thinks his side’s newfound ruthlessness has been inculcated in the dressing room.
“Being in and around the boys every day, working, helps shape my mentality,” Azeez said. “Also, because we did well last season, we just missed it on the final hurdle, we have that hunger to do that one better this season. We all have that ruthless mentality right now.”
Dons suffer Brewers droop but have chance to rise in Cup
By John Kelly
AFC WIMBLEDON boss Johnnie Jackson said his side would “take it on the chin” after their seven-match unbeaten run was ended by Burton Albion at Plough Lane last weekend.
Alex Hartridge scored the only goal five minutes into the second half as the Dons missed the chance to move into the top two in League One.
Wimbledon could have gone ahead in the 32nd minute after Hartridge had fouled Omar Bugiel, only for the striker to see his spot-kick saved by Brewers goalkeeper Brad Collins.
“Disappointing result, a hard game,” Jackson said.
“I thought the opposition were a tough opponent, made it really difficult for us in the first half especially.
“It was a scrappy old affair, the first half.
I thought in the second half, certainly after they scored, we took control of the game, we pushed hard to try and get back into it. It just wasn’t our day.
“We see the small margins have gone against us. We miss a penalty, they score from a set play, which is a bit frustrating. And then it’s one-way traffic for the last half hour, but we don’t force the goal.
“So, it wasn’t our day today. No lack of effort. We tried hard, we tried to make positive changes to impact it and we did, but we didn’t get the goal that we needed.
“I think a draw probably would have been a fair result. We certainly didn’t do enough to win it. But you have to credit them, that they defended their box really well and managed to see it out.”
Jackson wasn’t too down despite the unbeaten run being ended.
He said: “This is the bit I spoke about. We were never going to just keep going on and run and run and run. They come to an end and good teams just get back to what they’re doing.
“Did we play poorly today? Probably, first half, yes, but in a tough game, tough conditions, they had the wind.
“They put it on us, long throws, three kicks into our box, corners. In the second
half we played pretty well, to be honest. All of a sudden, we’re not going to start dissecting it and over-analysing it, overreacting to one defeat. It’s been a brilliant run.
“We could have, probably should have, got something from it. Not a win, but a point, but we don’t. We have to take that. We have to take it on the chin and go again.”
Wimbledon host National League Gateshead in the first round of the FA Cup this Saturday.
“We’ll be the massive favourites in the game,” Jackson said. “They’re coming here really with nothing to lose at all, being a couple of leagues below, but we all know in a game of football that that
doesn’t always count for much.
“They’ll come here with the freedom around what they’re doing because they’re not expected to get a result. We are expected to beat them and I expect us to beat them. But that ain’t just going to happen.
“We’re going to have to do the work on them, we’re going to have to turn up with the right frame of mind and attack the game. We’re looking forward to it, because it might be an opportunity for some lads who perhaps deserve it.
“They’ve had to wait when you’re on a run like that. It’s difficult to make too many changes, but that’s an opportunity maybe for some lads who haven’t had some.”
Thierno Ballo against Leicester City
Sport INSIDE
COMETH THE HOUR, LECOMTE THE MAN
By John Kelly
MARCO SILVA said Fulham fulfilled their “obligation” and “did enough” after just about avoiding a major shock as goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte’s penalty heroics helped his side past League One Wycombe Wanderers on Tuesday night and into the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup.
The Cottagers scored their first four penalties in the shootout before Chairboys goalkeeper Will Norris denied Ryan Sessegnon and Jonah Kusi-Asare.
But 34-year-old Lecomte - who joined on a free transfer from Montpellier in the summer - went one better with saves from Ewan Henderson, Fred Onyedinma and Donnell McNeilly.
That gave Issa Diop the chance to win it, and he beat Norris to send Fulham through 5-4.
The hosts had gone ahead through Cauley Woodrow in the fourth minute before Josh King’s 48th-minute equaliser.
It was welcome respite for Fulham, who are seventeenth in the Premier League after just two wins in their opening nine games.
“Our obligation was to be in the next round. Throughout the game we did enough,” Silva said.
“We knew we had to be positive and keep positivity around ourselves because these types of things happen, where the
first shot on target was a goal.
“That’s football, and I told the players at half-time that sometimes things come against us and we have to face it in the best way we can.
“The first half was not at a good level but we did create some chances, [though] not clear-cut chances. We didn’t suffocate them like we should.
“Second half, we pushed them back and created six or seven clear chances to score. When you create like we created in the second half, we have to put the ball in the back of the net. We have to be clinical, we have to be ruthless.
“We aim really high in this competition. We didn’t hide.”
Fulham host Wolverhampton Wanderers in the league this Saturday at 3pm.
Silva said: “The results haven’t been good enough for us, even in difficult circumstances and against some difficult opposition as well. But we have been very, very competitive, even in difficult moments. I’m sure that when we have the full squad available, we’re going to be much stronger.
“Many, many things are coming against us. Our words are not going to be enough. We have to work, keep working to be positive.
“In this moment, the confidence is not something you can buy anywhere. We need all of us even more together, and our fans with the team as well.”
Dillian wants Whyte-wash
By John Kelly
DILLIAN WHYTE has vowed to complete a 3-0 whitewash of “bully” Derek Chisora ahead of their expected trilogy bout in Manchester in December.
Brixton’s Whyte, 37, won a split decision victory over 41-year-old British heavyweight rival Chisora in 2016 before stopping him in the eleventh round in 2018.
Whyte (31-4) was stunned in the first round by Moses Itauma in Riyadh in August.
Chisora (36-13) has won his last three fights - including a unanimous decision against Joe Joyce - since going ten rounds before losing to Tyson Fury in 2022.
The deal for the fight at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester on December 13 hasn’t yet been agreed but it is anticipated it will happen.
“We’re not there yet but there’s interest from both sides,” Whyte said. “Obviously he’s said he’s not happy with the paperwork, none of us are happy with it.
“There’s lots of things that need to be nailed down and agreed.
“I just want to fight. I’m not getting any younger. This is the best fight for me at the moment.
“I’ve always taken hard fights, I’ve always wanted hard fights. Derek Chisora is no chump. Even if he’s a thousand years old, he’s going to be a worry.”
Whyte added: “It’s going to be a complete whitewash, 3-0, that’s all I’m saying. We’ve got a lot of pride. We respect each other, but we don’t particularly like each other.
“He says a lot of stuff. Then when I say something he takes it personally.
“Derek Chisora’s a bully - I’ve always been someone that spanked bullies my whole life.”
Millwall’s Massimo Luongo joined from Ipswich Town in the summer
Benjamin Lecomte joined the Cottagers on a free transfer in the summer
Dillian Whyte