Southwark News - November 27th 2025

Issue 1765

Established: 1987

50p

November 27 2025

southwarknews.co.uk

IFILL BACKS LIONS FOR PLAY-OFFS MILLWALL EXCLUSIVE

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas PAGES 4-5

FESTIVE FUN GUIDE

'SENSELESS' Police launch murderSee page 4 hunt after 'devoted' father and grandfather dies after Walworth assault See page 6

EXCLUSIVE

JUST 81 AFFORDABLE HOMES OUT OF 1,000 AT OLD KENT ROAD DEVELOPMENT See10-11pages

'NOT SLUMMING IT' BERMONDSEY HISTORY - See page 21

2 NEWS Contents NEWS Pages 2-14 OPINION Pages 16-17 ARTS Page 18-19 EVENTS Pages 20 HISTORY Pages 21 CLASSIFIED Page 23 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS Page 23 PUBLIC NOTICES Pages 24-27 SPORT Pages 29-32

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

We are a London Living Wage employer DO YOU HAVE A STORY

for our news team?

Call 0207 231 5258 You can WhatsApp us on 07494 070 863.

'TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO SAVE ONE OF LONDON’S OLDEST CLIMBING WALLS'

By Lillian Mulholland

PLANS FOR the redevelopment of Crystal Palace National Sports Centre risk the fate of climbing at one of London’s oldest walls, claim users.

For more than 30 years, the wall at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre (NSC) has been a cornerstone of London’s climbing community.

Now, a group of climbers claim plans for the redevelopment could see price hikes which would make it harder for disadvantaged young people to get a foothold into the sport, despite its soaring popularity across the world.

After more than a decade of concerns regarding the future of the centre, the Greater London Authority (GLA) has set out its plans for redevelopment.

Whilst a ‘climbing activity centre’ is in the plans, climbers fear that not all their needs have been taken into account and the space might not be fit for purpose as a result.

A petition to save the wall has gathered 2,000 signatures, as climbers call on the GLA to reconsider their plans.

The petition reads: "Independent analysis has found that the plans, in their current iteration, would be financially unviable and operationally unsafe, meaning it's highly unlikely that any professional operator could justify investing in or operating such a facility.

"If the plans go ahead as they stand, it is likely that climbing will be lost from Crystal Palace altogether."

These concerns come from initial plans presented by the GLA to the site's climbing club, Mount Palace.

The climbing community and local councillors have lobbied the GLA for eight years, finally receiving these plans for the wall with only two months until planning permission will be applied for. Matt Hayes, who runs Mount Palace, said: “The real risk is that there is not enough time to develop a cohesive plan for the future of climbing in Crystal Palace. There is a real likelihood that time will run out.”

Whilst a space for climbing is in the plans, an operator, such as Mount Palace, would be responsible for securing the investment necessary to fit out the space and run the facility.

These difficulties are not limited to Mount

Issue 1763

Established: 1987

50p

November 13 2025

Local councillors and Crystal Palace Community Trust staff with Hayes Palace, but Hayes has voiced concerns that the initial plans would make it difficult for any operator to take on the site, meaning the loss of climbing altogether. The redevelopment would see the space for climbing in the centre increased, but Hayes fears that this would not cover the additional staff costs required even if the site consistently met maximum capacity.

Plans would also see the climbing space close several times a year when the NSC hosts events, which Hayes fears could mean shutting the doors for a few days almost every month.

Hayes highlighted that an operator could not prevent wall climbing when these events would be hosted in the space, creating an issue for getting insurance.

Hayes said: “From the most recent plans that I saw, I just don’t believe that it would work. Perhaps the only way it could be viable is if we put the prices up, but we don’t want to do that.

“We want to keep it affordable for everybody.”

Memberships are currently priced at £15pm for young people aged 14-22 and £35pm per month for adults, with no additional cost for See page 4

southwarknews.co.uk

VISITED BY QUEEN ELIZABETH I, PREVIOUS OWNERS INCLUDE RUPERT MURDOCH

Editor: Kevin Quinn Reporters: Issy Clarke, Evie Flynn Sports Editor: John Kelly Sports reporter: Will Scott Arts Correspondent: Michael Holland Digital Transformation Editor: Katherine Johnston Media Partnerships: Anthony Phillips Advertising: Clarry Frewin, Mandy Stong Design: Dan Martin, Ann Gravesen Finance: Em Zeki - Tel: 0779 883 3758 em@cm-media.co.uk Subscriptions/Announcements: Katie Boyd Managing & Commercial Director: Chris Mullany Managing & Editorial Director: Kevin Quinn Published weekly on a Thursday at: Community Matters Media Ltd 1 Bermondsey Square, London SE1 3UN. News and Sport: 020 7231 5258 Advertising: 020 7232 1639 News: news@southwarknews.co.uk Advertising: hello@cm-media.co.uk Printed by Iliffe Print. Tel: 01223 656500 www.iliffeprint.co.uk

See page 3

The historic £8m riverside mansion that was bought for just £195,000

HERNE HELL

MARTIAL ARTIST ON TACKLING 'PICKPOCKET WITH HAMMER' ON THE TUBE MILLWALL

EXCLUSIVE See pages 6-7

NEIL DISMISSES BORO LINKS See page 2

Wheelchair users says his 45 minute commute can take up to FIVE HOURS

NEW POOL SHUT UNTIL JANUARY JOIN OUR SENIOR SCHOOL FOR SEPTEMBER 2026 ENTRY Registration closing date - Monday 24 November 2025 www.stdunstans.org.uk London, SE6 4TY

shoe or chalk rental.

Crystal Palace Community Trust runs free youth clubs twice a week and puts on regular holiday activities for 11-18 year-olds in the area.

Mount Palace have hosted the youth club free of charge, but fear that the cost demanded by the new plans for the NSC would stop this from happening.

Hayes said: “We had a kid that climbed here who went on to climb for Team GB, and I am certain there are hundreds of other kids in the local area who could do the same thing.”

The youth club exposes young people to challenging activities in a safe environment supported by academic theories of risk in play, according to Elaine Harrison, trust development manager at Crystal Palace Community Trust.

Taking young people climbing allows them to seek challenge and risk in a measured environment, aiming to steer them away from looking for this elsewhere, Harrison said. “The kind of young people we work with could never afford to pay the huge sums you have to pay at other climbing walls.

“For a lot of kids who come from disadvantaged or deprived backgrounds,

they’d never even think about doing something like this. If they don’t have this, it’s yet another signal that we are saying that our young people aren’t worth it.”

In the coming weeks, Mount Palace also plans to host an event for Screen Share, a charity which works with refugees, free of charge.

Harrison added: “We have to get past the politics, and look at the people and the communities we are trying to serve, and I think if we do that with all of their best interests at heart, then we’d be doing the right thing.”

Local councillors are working with the climbing club to ensure the space they call “vital” for economically disadvantaged young people in the borough remains accessible.

Ryan Thomson, local councillor for Crystal Palace and Anerley said: “What the climbing centre offers is a way of bringing people together.”

Their efforts are concentrated on maintaining the community essence, keeping costs down, and ensuring the space itself is fit for purpose. Ruth McGregor, local councillor for Crystal Palace and Anerley said: “The fact that climbing is included is a big win, but it needs to work. This is not about income generation, this is about the social value that it can deliver.”

Those involved commended the move by the GLA to redevelop the NSC, after many years of uncertainty.

Hayes and others are keen to maintain a dialogue with the GLA regarding the plans.

The GLA closed the final public consultation on November 15. Having declined requests for interview, representatives of the GLA at the consultation said that the suggestion that climbing was at risk was "ludicrous".

The GLA insist the plans that Hayes saw were initial suggestions, and that there is time for the finer details to be refined up until the centre is set to reopen in 2028.

A spokesperson for the GLA said: "The proposals for the redevelopment of Crystal Palace National Sports Centre include the continued provision of climbing at the site and detailed designs are currently being developed in consultation with local groups, including the climbing club, to ensure the facility is successful. We look forward to working closely with the climbing club as the plans progress."

The Southwark News is proud to be the only independent, paid for newspaper in London

Southwark News started life as the Bermondsey News in 1987, as an A-4 photocopied sheet of paper and rapidly grew to cover the entire borough and the surrounding area. As the borough grew, so did the newspaper.

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

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

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

Follow our social media to be updated on local news

southwark-news

@southwark_news

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

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

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

NEWS 3

The Shard lit up like a Christmas tree!

Skyscraper has unveiled longest-ever light show inspired by building staff

By Megan Norcott THE SHARD unveiled its longest ever continuous light show this week for Christmas, with designs inspired by its employees.

The 60-minute Shard Lights spectacle was unveiled at 6.45 pm on Tuesday 25 November and will repeat on the hour, every hour after nightfall, until the New Year.

Bringing festive cheer to spectators up to 40 miles away, the lights illuminate London’s skyline with the expressionist artwork of Gustavo Zuluaga Villegas, who works in the Shard’s housekeeping team.

The 65-year-old self-taught artist said: “I came to London from Colombia in 1996 to start a new chapter in my life. The Shard has been part of that journey for the past eight years, and it means a lot to see my artwork reflected on a building I know so well.

“During the pandemic, my daughter's creativity inspired me to return to painting, something that’s always been close to my heart. To now see those paintings transformed into light for everyone to enjoy feels incredibly special.”

Commissioned to create a painting for the yearly event, Gustavo’s abstract strokes will be reflected on the top 20-storeys of the UK’s tallest building as a centrepiece of bright rainbow flashes.

Michael Baker, CEO of REM and asset manager of The Shard, commented: “The Shard Lights are always a highlight of our year, but this time we wanted to do something more personal - to celebrate creativity within our own community.

“Gustavo has been part of The Shard team for many years, and it’s been inspiring to see his artistic talent brought to life through this year’s display, along with the other talented, creative individuals who work in the building. His work is full of colour, movement and emotion, and we’re proud to see it shining across London's skyline."

Self-taught, he usually paints in oil on canvas, using palette knives and brushes to capture personal experiences, the natural world, and memories from his childhood, especially his love of horses.

It won’t be horses jumping across the sides of the 72-floor skyscraper this festive season, however but reindeer!

Accompanied by Christmas trees and letters spelling out the word

London, 11 other sequences will also be depicted by the 575 LED units adorning the building.

Each of the sequences are created by employees whose businesses reside in the 310m high building, from office administrators to graphic designers, illustrators and accountants.

Kate Ross, a Digital Designer at Kraft Heinz, said: "Being part of The Shard’s Christmas light display feels completely surreal - it’s the kind of project you dream about as a designer.

My piece was inspired by how light connects people, like a kaleidoscope of cultures coming together across London.

“To see that idea brought to life on such a huge scale, shining out across the city, is both humbling and thrilling.

I hope when people look up, they feel that same sense of warmth and connection."

Sarah James, a financial controller in Mitie’s Shard office, also described how she wanted her piece to turn the ‘powerful symbol of London’ into a beacon of festive joy that brings people together.

Londoners seeking more holiday cheer can also enjoy Christmas activities within the 72-storey skyscraper, at one of the building's many restaurants or bars.

The Aqua Shard restaurant has partnered with Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity to create a Christmas tree which will be decked in Neverland themed ornaments, including Tinkerbell’s wings, crocodiles, clocks, compasses, lanterns and more.

Patrons looking to indulge can also try the themed drinks and dessert menu available from 15 November to 4 January.

Also, check out the ShangriLa Hotel’s ‘Enchanted Wonders’ Christmas decorations while enjoying afternoon tea at TING restaurant, as finger sandwiches, fluffy pastries and other savoury options inspired by the season fill your belly.

Available from 18 November to 6 January, the tea menu costs £89 per person and can be supplemented with a £10 flute of champagne.

While warming up for the main event on Christmas Eve, tuck into a sharing menu of seasonal dishes at £185 per person, including a flute of champagne.

Or go all out and spend Christmas lunch or dinner with the Shangri-La on the 25th at £285 per person, for a feast with all the trimmings and a Ting twist.

© The Shard

SHARD SPARKLES FOR CHRISTMAS The Shard sparkles as part of its colourful Christmas light show

Gustavo Zuluaga Villegas in front of his artwork

Interactive adaption of the Snow Queen See page 19

4 NEWS © CFaruolo

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS, OUR PICK OF FESTIVE TREATS One of the families making the challenge. (L: Edith)

Snow Globe on the O2

By Evie Flynn

GLIDE ICE SKATING, BATTERSEA POWER STATION

© Luke Dyson

Glide at Battersea Power Station

London’s only riverside ice rink, Glide at Battersea Power Station, is returning this winter for eight weeks. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Grade II listed Power Station, you can skate on the three interconnected rinks, whilst taking in views.

After the skate, the Glass House Bar is back as a perfect spot to warm up or wind down. There are pizzas from Made of Dough, a range of bar snacks, Chocomel hot chocolates, beers, wines and festive cocktails.

Dates: 7 November - 4 January Time: Daily sessions from 10:00 - 22:45 Price: £17 for adults, £10/50 for Children glidebatterseapowerstation.com

Price: £44 Location: The O2, Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX upattheo2.co.uk

CHRISTMAS CLASSICS AT THE SOUTHBANK CENTRE

CHRISTMAS FILMS AT BACKYARD CINEMA, BERMONDSEY

Head to South Bank this December for a magical concert of Christmas Classics. Sing along to a range of traditional carols, as well as popular contemporary Christmas favourites.

Getting you into the spirit will be the London Philharmonic Orchestra with the London Philharmonic Choir on Saturday 13 December and the Philharmonia Chorus with London Youth Choirs on Sunday 14 December.

Backyard Cinema will be transforming a Victorian warehouse on Tanner Street, near London Bridge, into an enchanted forest and hidden world of festive magic.

They will be showing the Christmas classics throughout the season, with Elf, Home Alone, Love Actually, The Holiday, and It’s a Wonderful Life coming to the big screen.

But, the real show is also the surprise performances in the Christmas Cabaret Room, themed bars and hidden cosy cabins.

Tickets include an hour free roaming in the enchanted garden before the show.

Date: Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December Time: 15:00 and 19:30 on Saturday, 13:00 on Sunday Price: £32 Location: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX southbankcentre.co.uk

dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

CHRISTMAS WREATH WORKSHOP AT LALA BOOKS, CAMBERWELL

Dulwich Picture gallery are celebrating the festive season with their annual Christmas Concert on 9 December.

This year, they will be joined by the Imperial Singers, who were formed

by Imperial College alumni in 1980.

The programme includes classics like Mary's Boy Child and Silent Night.

Refreshments will be available and seats are first come, first served.

SNOW GLOBE ON TOP OF THE O2, GREENWICH

The independent Camberwell bookshop, LaLa Books, is hosting a relaxed, hands-on evening wreath making workshop.

Eleanor, the head gardener at Camberwell’s Secret Garden, will guide you through making your beautiful winter wreath.

All materials, seasonal foliage, decorative extras, mulled wine, mince pies and the finished wreath are included in the ticket price.

Date: Tuesday 9 November Time: 19:30 - 20:30 Price: £16.50 Location: Dulwich Picture Gallery, Dulwich Picture Gallery, College Road, SE21 7AD

A ‘Winter Wonderland’ is gaining new heights this winter, with an immersive snow globe sitting 52 metres high, on the top of the O2.

After a guided climb to the top, enjoy 20 minutes at the summit. Set against the London skyline, the UK’s highest snow globe will feature fairytale-like falling snow, amongst a magical winter set-up, making for the perfect festive photo moment.

Date: 21 November - 4 January Time: Daily sessions

Date: Thursday 4 December Time: 19:00 - 21:00 Price: £35, which includes £5 donation to Lala Books' pay-it-forward scheme which provides funds for those who may not be able to afford the cost of a book Location: LaLa Books, 4a Grove Ln, London SE5 8SY tinyurl.com/22pd2kfw

© LaLa Books

CHRISTMAS CONCERT, DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY

Date: 26 November - 31 December Time: Daily shows at 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00 and 20:00 Price: Tickets start at £17.50 Location: 49 Tanner Street, SE1 3PL backyardcinema.co.uk

LaLa Books wreath making

NEWS 5

By Evie Flynn WAKUDA MARKET is a free-to-enter Christmas market in Lewisham Shopping Centre, showcasing African and Caribbean brands offering food, gifts and crafts.

Back in 2020, Lewisham locals Nathaniel and Albert, had grown frustrated at the lack of authentic African and Caribbean products in mainstream retail.

Albert struggled to find a father's day card featuring a Black father and Nathaniel couldn't find a doll that looked like his daughter.

They both were aware of numerous Black-owned brands offering these types of products, but accessing them wasn't always easy.

From here, the idea behind Wakuda formed: a market bringing exclusively Africana and Caribbean artisans straight to the public, all in a place with high foot-fall.

They are back in Lewisham Shopping Centre every weekend from Saturday 29 November to Sunday 22 December. They will also be staying two additional days on Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 December.

Nathaniel and Albert launched Wakuda as a brand in the wake of the Black Lives Matter Movement in 2020, when many people wanted to support Black businesses. From art, fashion and jewellery, to skincare, haircare and even food, Wakunda's selection of stalls makes for a Christmas shopping paradise. You can chat directly to the makers.

Supporting small businesses has always been at the heart of the market, with independent sellers coming together to share their passion and produce. They have since grown to support over 500 businesses.

The feedback from vendors is

WAKUDA IN LEWISHAM

Christmas market showcasing black-owned brands overwhelmingly positive.

Nathaniel said: “Our markets give small businesses visibility, footfall, and direct feedback from customers. We’ve seen businesses grow their audience, generate consistent sales, and gain confidence in expanding their brands.”

Albert looks back fondly on the vibe of the market during the Christmas season last year. He said: "It became a vibrant market, full of stories and products you won’t find anywhere else."

Outside of the Christmas season, Wakunda runs pop-up markets throughout the year across South London.

They also have a website, where they list the items, describing them as "products you won't find on the high street."

Aside from the products, the pair say Wakuda is also about connection, not just commerce. They bring human interaction back to the shopping experience, with a range of personalised gift offerings on their website and information about each seller.

A lot of the brands on offer may not have an online presence for their brand, so Wakuda not only gives them exposure, but also takes marketing time off the hands of the busy sellers.

Nathaniel and Albert were born and raised in Lewisham, so saw it as the perfect

place to host the Christmas markets.

Nathaniel said: "It's such a diverse, creative community that reflects the people and businesses we’re supporting. It felt like the perfect home for Wakuda.”

Albert had a career as a digital marketer and he helped major e-commerce brands like Amazon and Deliveroo acquire new customers, so he is positioned well to maximise Wakuda's business strategy.

Nathaniel's background is in engineering and marketplaces, giving him the practical skills to open Wakuda. However, he also has a passion for learning and positive impact, which became the inspiration to co-found Wakuda.

"This year, I’m looking forward to seeing more talented artisans thrive and our community grow stronger," Nathaniel told us. "It’s exciting to watch everything come together. We want everyone who visits to leave inspired and excited to support these amazing businesses.”

Looking ahead, the pair want to branch out their pop-up offering to more locations across South London, promoting access to and awareness of their partner brands.

They also plan to expand the product categories on their website, introducing more experiences and opportunities to connect artisans and customers.

Wakuda Christmas Market

Nathaniel Wade (left) with Albert (right)

6 NEWS

THE CHRISTMAS MEMORIAL SERVICE THAT DRAWS THOUSANDS TO BERMONDSEY

MURDER HUNT AFTER GRANDFATHER MICHAEL DIES IN HOSPITAL FOLLOWING ‘SENSELESS’ WALWORTH ASSAULT

By Issy Clarke A MURDER investigation has been launched following an assault outside a Walworth pub which left a grandfather dead.

By Evie Flynn THE MUCH-LOVED Bermondsey memorial service, led annually by funeral directors Albins, will return on 3 December, welcoming thousands of local residents to honour and remember loved ones who have passed away.

A longstanding community tradition, the service offers a heart-warming space for remembrance as we near the Christmas season.

Thousands of people attend each year to warm themselves with wine, carols and each other’s company, as they remember loved ones who are no longer with us.

This will be the 26th year of the annual service after they celebrated their 25th last year.

Attendees are invited to write personal messages on golden stars that will be hung on a big Christmas Tree in the garden.

You can get your star at funeral office at 52 Culling Road, Rotherhithe, London, SE16 2TN from now until the service to write your message or email stars@albins.co.uk Date: Wednesday December 3 Time: Gates open at 6pm, service begins at 7pm Albin Memorial Garden, Culling Road, SE16 2TN

The grief-stricken family of 62-yearold Michael Burrows, who was from Lambeth, described him as ‘funny and charismatic’ with a ‘heart of gold’ as police appeal for anyone with information to get in touch.

Michael was identified by police as the victim of the attack which took place outside the Canterbury Arms pub by the Brandon Estate just after 1pm last Thursday afternoon (20 November).

Police were called by the London Ambulance Service to Maddock Way following reports of an altercation where they found the 62-year-old with a head injury.

He was treated at the scene before being rushed to hospital where he sadly died from his injuries on Saturday (22 November).

Michael’s family released a statement this week in which they spoke of their utter devastation and urged for witnesses to come forward: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear father, our hearts are forever broken. He was our rock. He showed commitment and strength to his family, a truly loving and devoted father and grandfather.

“Our dad was a funny, charismatic and loyal gentleman who had a heart of gold and offered his support to everyone. He would always light up a room with his presence and will forever be loved and missed by his family and friends. We love you dad, may the angels watch over you.

“If anyone has any information or sightings, please contact the police as this will be of crucial help with the investigation.”

Detective Chief Inspector David Whellams said: “This was a senseless and shocking act of violence that has left

Victim 62-year-old Michael Burrows - photo supplied by Met Police a much-loved father dead.

“Our thoughts go out to Mr Burrows’ family at this awful time.

“I know the concern this incident will cause in the community, and a dedicated homicide team is working to piece together the events of the evening.

“If anyone saw, or has any information about the incident, then please come forward to police. We appreciate any information that you may have.”

There have been no arrests.

Cllr Natasha Ennin, Cabinet Member for Community Safety & Neighbourhoods, said: “We are very sorry to learn of the death of Michael Burrows. On behalf of

Newington ward, we wish to express our sincere condolences. This was a devastating incident that has taken the life of a beloved father and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

“We are working closely with the police as their investigation continues and urge anyone who may have seen or heard anything to come forward.”

If you witnessed the incident or have information that could help our investigation, please call 101 quoting CAD 3227/20Nov. You can also call the investigation team directly on 0208 345 3775.

TRAIN TRAVEL DISRUPTION OVER CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR South Bermondsey Station will be closed as platforms are rebuilt

By Lillian Mullholland ENGINEERING WORKS are set to disrupt train travel over the festive period.

Passengers should make their Christmas travel plans now to avoid engineering work disruptions over the holidays, says Network Rail.

Engineering work will take place across South London and Sussex to deliver vital improvements for a more reliable railway.

Works include replacing a conductor rail to power trains at East Croydon and heavy maintenance on vital rail junctions at Gatwick and Three Bridges.

Jenny Saunders, customer services director for Gatwick Express, Southern and Thameslink, said: "With Christmas just around the corner, I would like to urge all our passengers

to please check online now and plan ahead for the changes being made to our services during the festive season."

From Saturday 27 December until Wednesday 31 December, no Thameslink trains will run between London Blackfriars and Bellingham, and London Blackfriars and Sutton via Mitcham Junction or Wimbledon.

Replacement bus services will run between London Bridge and Bromley South via Bellingham, and rail tickets will be valid for travel on local bus, tram, and underground services.

South Bermondsey station will be closed as platforms are rebuilt from Saturday 27 December to Sunday 4 January. No Southern trains will call at the station during this period and passengers are advised to use local bus services instead.

Buses will replace Southern trains

between London Bridge and Tulse Hill via South Bermondsey and Peckham Rye from Thursday 1 January to Sunday 4 January. Beckenham Junction services will run only between Tulse Hill and Beckenham Junction on Saturday and Sunday of that weekend.

Engineering work means buses will replace trains between Purley and East Grinstead and between Oxted and Uckfield on Sunday 4 January.

Services between London Victoria and Reigate will only run between Redfield and Reigate. No Thameslink trains will run between London Blackfriars and Sutton or Wimbledon on this date.

The works have been scheduled for the quietest time of the year to minimise disruption to passengers.

Lucy McAuliffe, Sussex route director, Network Rail's southern

Govia Thameslink Railway region, said: “The festive period gives us a rare chance to make the most of lower passenger numbers to carry out vital work on the railway.

“The areas of track and infrastructure being worked on this Christmas are normally some of the busiest sections of railway in the country, so we will make the most of this window of

opportunity to work while the railway is closed, as we aim to give passengers safer and more reliable journeys.

“I would like to thank passengers for their patience while these works are carried out and I would also like to thank our teams, who will be working hard throughout the festive period to deliver these railway improvements."

NEWS 7 Advertorial

A hidden Oasis, where children can be themselves and run free

Flyer_A5.pdf

1

12/10/2021

We are a bilingual English/German Kindergarten set in a hidden oasis centrally located in the heart of Brixton. We create an environment where children learn and have fun in a playful way. The space is light flooded with an expansive and safe garden where children can run free. We serve healthy plant-based food.

22:35

1 Corry Drive, SW9 8QS Brixton@GermanKindergarten.co.uk apply: GermanKindergarten.co.uk/Brixton

www.germankindergarten.co.uk

Carols by The River Celebrate the festive season with us 16-18 and looking to start college?

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

Come and see what Bosco can offer you.

Places available for an immediate start in:

Business Child Care IT and Digital Media Sport

K

Naomi Gabrielle Photography

C

Sat 6 Dec · 12.30-5.30pm · Free entry 281 Jamaica Road, SE16 4RS 0207 232 0440 info@bosco.ac.uk

Festive Live Music | Family Art Activities Seasonal Food & Drink Specials Christmas Shopping

Discover more coinstreet.org/carols gabriels_wharf

Find us between the National Theatre and Oxo Tower Wharf, Upper Ground SE1 Waterloo

NEWS 9

A HOUSING INFILL SCHEME ON BERMONDSEY ESTATE FINALLY GIVEN PLANNING PERMISSION EXCLUSIVE

By Issy Clarke A BERMONDSEY housing infill scheme, previously overturned by the High Court which said the council had acted ‘unlawfully’ by granting it planning permission, has been given the green light after the developer made changes.

Not-for-profit housing partnership Leathermarket Community Benefit Society had been given planning permission in 2023 to build 34 new homes across two sites on the Elim Estate, off Long Lane, along with an improved basketball court and five-aside pitch.

However, a judge ruled in March that the council had not considered flooding risk policies in its decision to approve the scheme for socialrent homes on the old garage and basketball court.

The developer then re-applied for permission in August and was granted permission last month.

Two six-storey buildings have been approved: one, containing 16 homes, will be built on the old garage site; the second, with 18 flats, will stand on the ball court.In addition to the new buildings, there is also a new outdoor ball court, children’s playground and community garden being built.

The amended scheme has a full flood risk assessment and contains a number of changes to make it compliant with new building safety

rules, including additional ventilation shafts in lobbies and evacuation lifts with waiting areas.

Infill schemes are developments © Met

Man charged with murder of a woman on the Aylesbury Estate

built on existing council estates. The council views them as a key way of meeting its house-building targets.

They have, however, often been met

with resistance from residents, as we have extensively reported.

Attempts to build new homes on the Elim Estate have been frequently hamstrung by legal problems over the years.

In 2021, residents mounted a campaign to save their ball court from redevelopment under a previous version of the plans submitted by Leathermarket CBS. Although the plans included a garden, “community hub” and indoor sports hall, residents objected to the difference between an outdoor court that anyone can walk up and play on and an indoor space that could need booking.

The developer withdrew the scheme and resubmitted the amended plans in 2022.

Cllr Helen Dennis, Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development said: “I am delighted that the proposed new council homes on the Elim Estate have reached this important milestone. Achieving planning consent is a crucial step in delivering 34 much-needed council homes here for residents on our housing waiting list along with wider estate improvements including a new ball-court and play areas.

“It is my hope, that with the previous technicalities resolved, the council and Leathermarket CBS can now move forward with delivering these plans.”

By Issy Clarke A MAN has been charged with murdering a woman on the Aylesbury Estate back in March, as police appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

Simon Levy, of Beaufoy Road, Tottenham, was charged on Thursday, 20 November with murdering 53-year-old Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo.

The 40-year-old has been arrested in connection with two other incidents involving women – both in Tottenham – and the three incideints are being treated as part of a single joined investigation which police described as one of “great complexity”.

Police were called on Monday, 17 March to reports of an unresponsive woman at a property on the Aylesbury Estate.

Despite the efforts of paramedics from the London Ambulance Service, Carmenza was pronounced dead at the scene.

A police investigation was launched following a post-mortem examination, which was unable to determine a cause of death.

On Tuesday, 1 April, Levy was arrested on suspicion of murder. He was released under investigation while enquiries continued, including additional tests which remain ongoing to determine a cause of death.

On Thursday, 4 September, Levy was rearrested in connection with Carmenza’s death and also for the murder of Sheryl Wilkins, 39, who died on Sunday, 24 August on High Road, Tottenham.

Left - Carmenza ValenciaTrujillo. Inset - Sheryl Wilkins.

Levy was charged with Sheryl’s murder on Sunday, 7 September.

While in custody, he was further arrested in relation to a separate incident on Tuesday, 21 January, involving another woman in High Road, Tottenham.

He was charged with two counts of rape, grievous bodily harm, and intentional suffocation in relation to that.

All three cases are now being treated as part of a single, joined investigation. A trial date has been set for June 2026 at the Old Bailey.

Commander Clair Kelland, who leads the Met’s Public Protection Team, said: “As the lead for public protection at the Met, one of our main priorities is to better protect women and girls.

“The investigation into Simon Levy is one of great complexity. We are working closely with partners across relevant boroughs, including Haringey and Southwark, to encourage reporting and raise awareness of the support we can provide to victimsurvivors.

“Whether you are a victim-survivor, or someone with information, we urge you to come forward and speak to us”.

Jaswant Narwal of the Crown Prosecution Service said: “Following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service, the Crown Prosecution Service has made the decision to prosecute Simon Levy for the murder of Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo, a 54-year-oldwoman from Colombia.

“Simon Levy will appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 25 November 2025. We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has a right to a fair trial.”

Detectives said they “believe there may be individuals who have information relevant to the investigation – or who are yet to report incidents which have directly impacted them – and are asking for people to come forward.”

People can contact the incident room directly on 07751 700 330 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police appeal for witnesses after cyclist killed in Old Kent Road collision with vehicle

By Issy Clarke

POLICE HAVE launched an appeal for witnesses to a collision on the Old Kent Road on Friday 21 November which left a 34-year-old cyclist dead

Traffic ground to a halt on the Old Kent Road and surrounding streets after police were called shortly after 7 am to reports that a car had collided with a cyclist near the junction with Dunton Road.

The 34-year-old cyclist was treated at the scene. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he sadly died. His next of kin have been informed, and are being supported by speciallytrained officers.

Police said the driver of the car involved – a 68-year-old man – failed

to stop at the scene. He was traced by police a short while later, and arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has been released on bail, pending further enquiries.

Detective Sergeant Rob Groombridge, from the Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “An investigation is underway, and officers are working to establish what happened.

“I’m appealing for anyone who saw the collision, or who may have captured footage of it on their dashcam, to please contact us as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the Serious Collision Unit on 0207 1750754 or via 101 quoting CAD 1109/21NOV.

10 NEWS EXCLUSIVE

By Issy Clarke PLANS FOR a thousand homes off the Old Kent Road will now contain just 12 per cent affordable housing after the developer said they could not afford to provide any more than that.

The scheme, known as Bermondsey Place, is being delivered by Berkeley Homes, the firm behind the redevelopment of the Aylesham Centre on Peckham’s Rye Lane into nearly 900 homes, which will also provide just 12 per cent affordable housing.

The development on Malt Street near Burgess Park was approved in 2019 and will deliver 1,300 new homes across 11 high-rise towers looming over the Old Kent Road.

Work on the first phase - 285 homes, with 40 per cent affordable - started in 2020 but was paused for four years until it was rescued by the government last year who gave Berkeley £125 million to get things moving again.

Construction on that phase re-started this summer, with Berkeley still on track to provide 40 per cent affordable housing as originally promised. But the second and third parts - which comprise 1,000 of the homes - will only contain 12 per cent affordable housing by habitable room, the equivalent of 81 homes, some way off the 35 per cent minimum required by Southwark's planning policies.

Berkeley's spokesperson said this was down to mounting regulation and construction costs and because they didn't have a grant to cover those phases.

Local housing group the 35% Campaign have suggested that the combined reductions across the Peckham and Malt Street schemes could amount to a loss of around 500 affordable homes.

Malt Street falls within the Old Kent Road regeneration area which was created by the Mayor of London in 2016, with 20,000 new homes and 10,000 new jobs expected to be delivered over 20 years.

More than half of these new homes are waiting for work to start on the Bakerloo Line extension to Lewisham before they can get planning permission, which has been repeatedly delayed for the last decade and now is unlikely to be built before 2040 at the earliest.

The spokesperson for Berkeley said: "Private developments like Bermondsey Place build affordable housing at a financial loss - but as regulatory and construction costs have increased they can’t provide as much.

"Phase one of Bermondsey Place was awarded a public grant to help cover some of these losses and increase affordable housing delivery to 40%, but phases two and three currently have zero grant so the proportion of affordable homes will be lower.

"This regeneration project is also making a £35 million contribution to improving local infrastructure and community services, as well as creating 2.5 acres of new public open space.

“The rising costs affecting Bermondsey Place have impacted the whole of London, driving private and affordable homebuilding to record lows across the city, but we are determined that this key Old Kent Road regeneration site will not come to a halt like so many others.”

Berkeley has come under fire locally in recent times from campaigners objecting to its plans to build nearly 900 homes on Peckham's Rye Lane where the Aylesham Centre currently stands.

OLD KENT ROAD SCHEME WILL CONTAIN JUST 81 AFFORDABLE HOMES OUT OF A THOUSAND

The development will consist of several high rise towers clustered around a green court The proposals have been the subject of a government planning inquiry which concluded on Monday, 17 November, after the developer opted to override Southwark's planning committee following the decision to lower the proportion of affordable housing to just 12 per cent.

Berkeley has made the same argument in relation to the Aylesham proposals and the Old Kent Road site: that the only way to build any homes at all on sites where they have planning permission is to reduce the level of affordable housing.

Southwark's planning rules state big developments need to offer 35 per cent affordable housing to get permission.

However the government recently announced that it is reducing the proportion of affordable homes that developers in London need to build to get planning permission from 35 to 20 per cent.

While it is not yet clear how this change will interact with Southwark’s local plan, Cllr Helen Dennis, Southwark's Cabinet Member for Council Homes, told us recently that the council's plans

"had not changed" as a result of the government's proposals. She said: " We will always fight for the largest possible number of council homes, social rent and genuinely affordable homes in our borough, and will continue to work towards the viability-tested targets agreed in our Local Plan.”

Commenting on the reduction of the number of affordable homes provided by the Malt Place scheme, Dennis said the council was "disappointed" but added there were "clear challenges" facing developers: “Southwark Council strives for every housing development to deliver as much affordable housing as possible - that’s why as an authority we build the most council homes of any council in the country, and last year completed more social rent homes than any other London borough.

"It is very disappointing that the phase 2 and 3 proposal for the construction of Bermondsey Place on Malt Street does not include as much affordable housing as our policies expect.

"Southwark residents on the housing waiting list will certainly benefit from

The tallest building will be 36 storeys down from 44, which was what Berkeley originally had planning permission to build the 40% affordable housing being delivered in phase 1, but there are evidently clear challenges at this point in time for residential development schemes in London.

“Our ambitions for Southwark will not change despite these challenges and we will always fight for the largest possible number of council homes, social rent and genuinely affordable homes in our borough.”

The government's decision to lower affordable housing quotas comes amid a slowdown in house-building starts, while growing numbers of families languish on council housing waiting lists.

Work began on just 1,239 affordable homes across London between April and September 2025. That number will need to drastically increase if the government wants to achieve its target of building 1.5 million homes by the end of the decade, a significant chunk of which will have to be contributed by London.

In Southwark during that time there were just 122 affordable homes started despite the huge number of

redevelopments underway in the borough, while only one council home was started. Meanwhile, there are more than 20,000 families on the waiting list for a new council home.

Defending the government's changes to affordable housing quotas Steve Reed, the Housing Secretary, told a government select committee last week: "When you have 10 boroughs with no new starts at all, insisting on 35% affordability within those zero schemes is meaningless because 35% of nothing is nothing.

"I want to see some units coming through at affordable rates. We are looking at how we can reduce the cost of development in order to get development in the capital working.”

But Jerry Flynn, of the 35% campaign group in Southwark, was critical of the loss of affordable housing across the two Berkeley schemes: "The reductions that Berkeley want at the Aylesham Centre and Bermondsey Place will lose us roughly 500 affordable homes, most of them social rented - it is scandalous that Berkeley want to deprive us of them."

NEWS 11 © Berkeley Homes

Allegations GLA 'told developers to dig a trench to inflate London's affordable housing numbers'

By Kumail Jaffer

Local Democracy Reporter THE GREATER London Authority has been told to launch a full investigation into claims its officials encouraged developers to 'dig a trench' in order to boost figures for affordable housing starts.

Phase 1 consists of three buildings and is currently being built Phase 1 consists of three buildings and is currently being built

Tim Craine, the founder of London development analysts Molior, said the Mayor should be “livid” that the housing department allegedly “embellished” figures and accused Sir Sadiq Khan of “misleading” voters in last year’s election campaign.

In April 2023, the GLA said that construction had started on 25,658 affordable homes during the previous year, making a total of 116,000 during the Mayor’s tenure.

Mr Craine claimed that officials “counted housing starts prematurely”, only for development schemes to “become unviable” due to interest rate rises and construction costs soaring.

“This means many of those 25,568 homes are still not under construction today,” he said.

To get around this, he claims developers, housing associations and local authorities were told to “dig a trench” to register as many housing starts as possible by claiming they had technically begun construction.

Conservative Housing spokesman Lord Bailey has now written to the GLA’s CEO Mary Harpley demanding an extensive probe into the allegations.

In a letter seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), he wrote: “If data around the number of affordable housing starts in London is found to have been misreported, and this this was done with intent, or GLA officers were aware the

Sadiq Khan and Shaun Bailey figures were inaccurate and did not seek to correct the record, we are sure you will agree this would be a very serious matter indeed.

"Given the gravity of the concerns raised, we are asking you to conduct a full investigation into this matter.”

In a separate letter to Deputy Mayor for Housing, Tom Copley, Lord Bailey asked for confirmation that his department would “comply fully” with any investigation and demanded his resignation if he was aware of any misreporting.

He also noted that developers receive a payment for the GLA for registering a “start” as well as at completion, prompting potential concerns over the way taxpayer money was being spent.

When asked about the possible misreporting at Mayor’s Question Time on Thursday, November 20, Sir Sadiq said: “It’s the first time I’ve heard of them so I can’t agree to anything.

“What I can do is I’ll take away what he said because it’s very serious, the assertions he’s

Self-storage, right round the corner Because weekends weren’t made for storage runs — book in minutes and access anytime with Pocket.

Drummond Rd, Biscuit Factory, SE16 4DG

BOOK NOW

•

Flexible booking, no long-term tie-ins

•

Access any time, day or night

•

5 mins from Bermondsey tube

making.

"Let me take it away and get in touch with him in relation to letting him know what I’ll do about them. I’m more than happy to get the chief officer to look into them.”

A spokesperson for the Mayor of London told the LDRS: “GLA statistics on the starts and completions of homes by any tenure are transparent and accurate. The definition of starts on site for City Hall-funded affordable housing programmes is clearly set out in our funding contracts and are similar to those used by Homes England for equivalent projects.

“Housebuilding of all tenures has faced a perfect storm of high interest rates, the rising cost of construction materials, the impact of the pandemic and ongoing consequences of Brexit.

The GLA remains committed to supporting as many schemes as possible to remain viable to deliver more genuinely affordable homes as we continue to build a better, fairer London for everyone.”

The issue of affordable housing has been a sore one for the Mayor, with the latest GLA data showing that developers made just 1,239 starts on affordable homes from April to September this year, compared to 3,991 in the whole of the last financial year.

Earlier this year the GLA and Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) agreed to lower London’s target for the Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) for 2021-2026 by over a fifth to between 17,800 and 19,000 starts.

But with just 6,370 affordable homes started since the AHP was signed off in 2023, there are major doubts as to whether City Hall will hit the revised target.

© The Clink

12 NEWS

LATEST FOOD AND DRINK HAPPENINGS AND OPENINGS ACROSS SOUTH LONDON

The Clink Christmas Menu

© TeoDellaTorre

© Supercute Brewery

Pizzarova

Supercute brewery outside

By Evie Flynn

DUDA DINER, NUNHEAD

FOUNDED BY husband and wife team Hakeem and Zura, Duda Diner is a Malaysian restaurant that celebrates the spirit of ‘makan’ (eat) together.

They offer shared plates, lively tables and recipes inspired by ‘mom’s kitchen’, roadside stalls and the couple’s own playful twists. Opening in Nunhead after a series of pop-ups, you can expect a range of seasonal ingredients woven into Malaysian classics, such as smoky lamb satay skewers, wokkissed Mee Goreng Mamak, Char Kuey Teow and the Duda Burger.

44 Nunhead Green, Nunhead, SE15 3QF

PIZZAROVA, BRIXTON

PIZZAROVA, THE much-loved Bristol pizza restaurant, made a leap to Brixton at the end of November.

They will bring their relaxed dining-in and takeaway pizzas to South London with the promise of providing ‘fast food, but better’.

As co-founder Jack Lander puts it: “Brixton has such a rich energy and strong sense of culture, and we are really excited to be part of that. We want to bring pizzas that are bold, fun and full of flavour, and a space where people feel at home.”

Pop Brixton, 49 Brixton Station Rd, SW9 8PQ

Corner Corner, Credit TeoDellaTorre

WINTER AT CORNER CORNER, CANADA WATER

This winter, the cold won’t stop you enjoying the outdoor terrace at Corner Corner, overlooking the new Boardwalk by architect Asif Khan.

The space is ideal for alfresco drinks, networking, or meetings. Plus, every weekday from 3-8pm they have a ‘Sundowner Hour’ where you can enjoy a £5 medium wine, £7 negronis and 2-4-1 beers.

Corner Corner, Maritime Street, Canada Water, SE16 7LL

BACKSTAGE AT THE OLD VIC, WATERLOO

THE OLD Vic Theatre’s new sixstorey building, Backstage, is now open to the public.

On the first and ground floors, there is a daytime cafe and workspace, which will serve breakfast and lunch before transforming into a vibrant bar and restaurant at night.

Backstage, 131 Waterloo Road SE1 8UR

2210, HERNE HILL

THE PECKHAM Chef, Nathaniel Mortley, who went from prison to media stardom has opened his new restaurant, 2210, in Herne Hill.

This follows his successful run as the head chef at The Greyhound Pub last year. Nathaniel trained through HMP Brixton’s The Clink project. The restaurant will combine the flavours of

Bajan, Jamaican and Guyanese cuisine with an old-school French approach to fine dining.

75 Norwood Rd, Herne Hill, SE24 9AA.

£5 PINTS AT SUPERCUTE BREWHOUSE, LOUGHBOROUGH JUNCTION

THE INDEPENDENT microbrewery on Coldharbour Lane between Brixton and Camberwell is hosting a happy hour every Tuesday to Thursday.

From 5pm-7pm you can grab yourself a £5 pint in a cosy atmosphere with classic board games and free popcorn.

Choose from: bavarian style lager, session IPA, stout, pale ale, a glass of wine, or a single spirit and mixer.

Supercute Brewhouse, 245a Coldharbour Lane, SW9 8RR

WATCHHOUSE, BATTERSEA POWER ST

WATCHHOUSE, THE coffee shop known for its architecturally designed Houses, is opening a new shop on Electric Boulevard outside Battersea Power Station.

The menu will be specialty coffee, bakery, breakfast and lunch choices.

The new venue nods to the history of the Grade II listed power station and includes their most extensive Espresso Bar to date.

WatchHouse, Electric Boulevard, SW11 8AL

GERMAN DONER KEBAB, ELEPHANT AND CASTLE

GERMAN DONER Kebab is opening a brand-new restaurant on Walworth Road, Elephant and Castle.

Known for serving high-quality meats, crisp, locally sourced salads, handmade signature sauces and its toasted sesame waffle bread, German Doner Kebab has revived the kebab for today’s diners.

Every dish is halal and freshly prepared to order, creating a fastcasual dining experience. The opening is set for Autumn 2025.

256 Walworth Rd, Elephant and Castle, SE17 1JE

MONT 58 COFFEE RECOGNISED AS INSPIRING SMALL BUSINESS, CATFORD AND FOREST HILL

MONT58 COFFEE, which has a cafe in Sydenham and coffee hut in Catford, was lauded by Small Business Saturday, a campaigning group which celebrates small business.

They were named as ‘one of the most inspiring in the UK’ after opening two stores in South East London and a larger roastery in Kent. The venture was by husband and wife duo Maya Haiman-Eilon and Shai Eilon in their garden shed at their home in Blythe Hill. 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.” Pop into their store in Sydenham or grab a takeaway from their hut outside the Corbett Library in Catford.

134 Kirkdale, Sydenham, SE26 4BB

THE CLINK’S CHRISTMAS MENU, BRIXTON

THE CLINK Restaurant at HMP Brixton has unveiled its Christmas menu for 2025.

Run by the Clink Charity, the restaurant gives prisoners the chance to train in professional kitchens and front-of-house roles while serving their sentences.

Through hands-on experience and recognised qualifications, they gain the skills and confidence needed to build a new future after release. The Christmas menu is available from 2nd December, priced at £32.50 for two courses or £43.50 for three. Starters include beetroot-cured sea trout, roasted pumpkin tartlet, or duck rillettes. Mains range from traditional roast Turkey and Sirloin of beef to Pan-roasted hake or a Vegan wild mushroom-stuffed hispi cabbage.

Desserts feature Pear and stem ginger pudding, Classic Christmas pudding, or Bitter chocolate mousse, with an Artisan cheeseboard also available.

The Clink Restaurant Brixton HMP Brixton, Jebb Ave, SW2 5XF

Flu causes serious illness for people with long-term health conditions Protect yourself by getting the flu vaccine this winter Book an appointment through the NHS App, nhs.uk/bookflu, 119, or your pharmacy or GP. Find participating pharmacies at nhs.uk/flu-pharmacy

14 NEWS

John the Unicorn re-launched under new owners

‘ST CHRISTOPHER’S GAVE ME ONE LAST CHRISTMAS WITH MUM’ South London families back the hospice’s festive appeal

Christmas in the Hospice cafe

Tom Gosnell and Cameron McKenzie-Wilde

By Jessica Khan

By Matt Hasdell HONEY-BASED DRINKS brewers Gosnells have taken over Peckham’s John the Unicorn pub, bringing the beloved boozer under local ownership.

The vibrant two-floor pub in Rye Lane, which relaunched last Thursday November 20, is housed in what was once a decorator’s shop and has become a favourite for its laid-back vibes, neon cocktails, craft beers and stone-baked pizzas.

The new owners plan to extend the opening hours, operating as a café and lunch venue during the day with coffee, pastries and locally sourced lunches, alongside fast WiFi to attract those working from home.

Evenings will see an ‘exciting’ programme of events and activities including live music, with pizza on the menu alongside a range of cocktails, wine, beer, and Gosnells own Honey Nectars.

Tom Gosnell, who founded the brand in 2014, said: “We strongly believe in ‘by Peckham, for Peckham’ so there’s an extra layer of pride that we’re taking over such a storied space in our own backyard. And that we get to share it with the community who’s supported us from the start.

“We want to lean into what makes John

the Unicorn iconic and that feeling that you’ve stumbled into somewhere rare and prized.”

Gosnells has brewed honey nectars, ABV drinks inspired by the craft beer and mead scenes, in Peckham since 2014 and has a growing presence in South London, with canned and on draught drinks served in many local venues. John the Unicorn becomes the company’s second flagship site, joining their Bermondsey Bar – with Gosnells teasing more news to come in 2026.

The pub has been acquired from the Portobello Pub Company, where managing director Richard Stringer said: “We have loved our time with John the Unicorn, but it is exciting to see it gain a new lease of life with a truly locally rooted business.”

John the Unicorn was known as proud gay pub yet since the re-launched some former punters have expressed certain that the takeover would mean it will loose it's explicit queer identity. People were divided on the issue on social media, but Tom reposted: "We completely under the concerns about what John the Unicorn means to the local queer community and we want to be clear that the queer programming that has become such an important part of the venue will remain."

Under Gosnells’ ownership, they said existing staff have been retained, and the venue’s name will not changed.

Remembering with St Christopher’s

A SOUTH Londoner whose mother spent her final Christmas at St Christopher’s Hospice is urging people to support the Sydenhambased charity’s festive appeal.

Allen Mills said his mother Susan, 66, was admitted to the hospice’s inpatient unit in late November 2024, when the family feared she only had days to live. Instead, she survived for six weeks - long enough to spend Christmas Day with her husband and three children.

“She was a strong, stubborn, loving woman,” Allen says. “She had been told she was dying more than once, and she just refused to accept it. Mam was great at everything… except for dying. She always kept fighting.”

Susan, who lived in Peckham, had first been diagnosed with cancer in 2003 and experienced two periods of remission before the disease returned. She was supported at home by the hospice’s community team before moving to the inpatient unit, where she died shortly after Christmas.

The Mills family were able to enjoy a full Christmas dinner together in the hospice café, where staff and volunteers helped create as normal and joyful a day as possible.

“It was joyous, really, that we were able to spend Christmas Day together. She looked fantastic, she had a lot more energy about her. We didn’t do presents; the present was

Allen and Susan in Hospice mum being with us. I’m always quite happy talking about it because it was a nice day, and we might not have had that without St Christopher’s,” said Allen.

Susan enjoyed her festive meal so much that she had a second dinner with her family.

Allen Mills praised staff for their compassion and dedication, especially during the Christmas period when many are away from their own families.

“It must be tough for the staff working over Christmas, especially being away from their families and seeing other people enjoying their Christmases in a very different environment, but they were first class,” said Allen.

St Christopher's Hospice has over 500 staff and 1,000 volunteers. They normally have over 1,800 people under their care at any one time.

Allen is supporting St Christopher’s Christmas Appeal to help other families

make lasting memories together at the hospice.

Motivated by a poster for a fundraising challenge he saw on Christmas Day, Allen completed a 283-mile London-to-Versailles bike ride in September 2025. He raised more than £11,000 in memory of his mum, alongside friends Gavin, Paul and James.

St Christopher’s Hospice's goals include helping people live well until they die and supporting those affected by the loss. They envision a world where people who are dying have access to equitable care and support whenever and wherever they need it.

“Donating just £30 to our Christmas Appeal could help us to provide a Christmas dinner for a patient and their loved one at the hospice over the festive period, helping them create treasured memories just like Allen and Susan were able to,” said Tom Abbott, director of income generation and communications at the hospice.

£4 billion investment secured for new homes and offices in Bankside

By Issy Clarke

BILLIONS OF pounds have been invested in planned new homes and offices in Bankside over the next five years.

Bankside, the area between London Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge, has received £4billion to fund 28 developments covering 10 million square feet – half of which will be taken up by offices.

The developments include 1,517 private homes, 554 affordable (social or intermediate cost) homes and more than 5 million square feet of office space.

There will also be new student flats (2,500), hotel rooms (390), and spaces for shops, restaurants and entertainment

venues.

The funding, which has come from both private and public investors, is in addition to the £14 million that will be spent over the next five years on improving the

area by Better Bankside, the Business Improvement District (BID).

The developments will create jobs for 44,000 people who are predicted to spend a combined £122 million a year in

the area.

The money will also be spent on making the area resilient to climate change, including helping businesses decarbonise and improving green spaces and biodiversity, and addressing crime and anti-social behaviour.

Nicole Gordon, CEO of Better Bankside, commented; “Over the last 20-years, Bankside has seen major evolution, into what is now one of the world’s most prestigious cultural districts. Investment into the area has led to the birth of Tate Modern and the Globe Theatre, desireable retail/ hospitality concepts like Borough Yards and exciting examples of urban innovation – such as the repurposing of the area’s Victorian arches into the Low Line, offering mixed-use business and

retail space.

“The planned investment over the next 5-years will build on this further, with our BID commiting £14 million to projects which will ensure the economic prosperity, climate resilience and collaborative-spirit of the area continues to thrive.

“Twenty eight planned developments will further support this with a projected 44,000 employees arriving into Bankside, contributing an estimated £122 million annual spend to the benefit of our member businesses.

“Our BID will ensure this leads to a stronger, greener and happier Bankside by 2030, preserving the area’s unique spirit while creating innovative opportunities for collaboration and growth.”

F.A.A.

F A ALBIN & SONS

020 7237 3637

Family Run Funeral Directors

RotheRhithe 52 Culling Road, London, SE16 2TN OuR OThER bRaNCh addRESSES aRE: welling 4 Welling Way, Welling, KENT, da16 2Rj T: 020 8856 7514

deptfoRd 164 deptford high Street, LONdON, SE8 3dP T: 020 8694 1384

sidcup 163 Station Road, Sidcup, KENT, da15 7aa T: 020 8308 0015

eAst london 378 barking Road, Plaistow LONdON, E13 8hL T: 020 7476 1861

MottinghAM 54-56 Mottingham Road, London, SE9 4QZ T: 020 8857 0330 cRAYfoRd 30-32 Crayford high Street, Crayford, KENT, da1 4hG T: 01322 533012

wAlwoRth 88 brandon Street, LONdON, SE17 1Nd T: 020 7313 6990

Serving the people of Bermondsey & Rotherhithe for over 200 years

www.albins.co.uk

16 OPINION

Comment

'I'm delighted that Southwark is getting £10 million of funding to improve buses in the borough' L AST WEEK I was delighted to welcome the news that Transport for London announced that Southwark has been chosen for the new Better Bus Partnerships programme.

It’s one of only three boroughs receiving up to £10 million of funding over the next four years.

Anyone who lives in Southwark knows how many people rely on buses as their main way of getting around. For many, they are not a nice extra, they are essential. That is why this investment really matters.

The money will arrive in stages, so the improvements will not happen overnight, but it should make a real difference to bus times, overall standards and the feel of Southwark’s streets.

More than half of Southwark residents do not own a car, so the limited alternatives make the reliance on buses easy to understand.

One of the biggest frustrations people tell me about is reliability.

Adult Learning Lewisham

Road closures, traffic and unpredictable wait times mean that buses often arrive late or sometimes do not turn up at all. This funding is designed to tackle that problem head on.

The programme will also involve working with Southwark Council to make the walk to the bus stop safer and more comfortable, as well as improving the stops themselves.

Southwark has already been pushing ahead on road safety through the Streets for People initiative, which focuses on more accessible pavements and public spaces.

Together with the new funding, residents who use buses every day can feel more confident that their safety is being taken seriously.

This announcement also fits into a wider plan for transport in the borough.

There is currently a consultation on a new Super Loop 15 route that would run between Clapham and

Eltham, going through Croxted Road, Dulwich to Lordship Lane.

If you want this speedy service in the area, please respond to the TfL consultation by 30th November www.haveyoursay. tfl.gov.uk/sl15-superloop Continued investment in safer roads and better connections will help make sure that any new route offers the best possible service, with the first changes expected to start appearing in 2027.

Away from transport, I recently raised the issue of drink spiking with the Mayor at City Hall.

As we head into the Christmas party season, cases always rise and it is a real concern for many people going out to enjoy themselves.

Last year there were 2,633 reports but only 84 charges, which shows just how much more needs to be done to protect people and support those affected.

I will continue pushing on this issue with the Met Police.

DAY, EVENING AND WEEKEND COURSES

OPEN THE DOOR TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES SIGN UP FOR A COURSE TODAY! For more information visit: www.lewisham.gov.uk/adultlearning Adult Learning Lewisham ALL TOGETHER WE FLOURISH

MARINA AHMAD

GLA Member for Southwark & Lambeth

One of the biggest frustrations people tell me about is reliability. Road closures, traffic and unpredictable wait times mean that buses often arrive late or sometimes do not turn up at all. This funding is designed to tackle that problem head on.

OPINION 17

Cash is king when it comes to affordable homes

A

round 200 affordable homes slated for the Old Kent Road won't be built anymore after a major housing developer said without government funding they can't make the numbers add up. Initially it had been thought around 40 per cent of the 1,000 or so homes promised would be affordable. But like so many other cases across London, developer Berkeley Homes claims economic realities intervened to make this impossible.

Berkeley also got rid of another 200-or-so affordable homes they had promised to include in their redevelopment of Peckham's Aylesham Centre. That reduction triggered a planning inquiry which ended a week ago.

These much-needed homes will now be replaced by market-rent properties. This is because developers make a loss on each affordable home they let out.

Developers are private companies, not charities, and need to make a profit. But the profit imperative means it is often local people on modest incomes who lose out. To address this problem there are local planning laws which state that developers in Southwark have to make 35 per cent of their schemes affordable.

But that regulation is in practice very flexible because developers hold many of the cards - particularly given that local authorities don't have the funds to build enough council houses to meet demand on their own and therefore must rely on the private sector. Developers will run viability assessments which determine how much affordable housing they can afford to build. If the council isn't happy with the number they come up with, they can try to push the developer to provide more, but they might then threaten to pull out of the agreement altogether. That means no homes get built at all. So often, councils will let them get away with it.

We’ve seen this power dynamic at play in the saga over the Aylesham Centre redevelopment. Berkeley Homes’ lawyers have argued that if the councils reject their planning application - which includes less than 100 affordable homes out of nearly 900 - they won’t find a developer who can afford to build any more because of rising construction costs and interest rates. The scheme - the decision on which now with the government - is likely to be waved through.

The government is trying to compromise with developers by reducing the proportion of affordable housing they need to provide to 20 per cent. But critics say it is too little too late to make a difference. Even 20 per cent is above what developers like Berkeley and British Land are saying they can now afford to provide.

Interestingly, the first part of the Old Kent Road scheme - which contains 285 homes - is still going ahead with 40 per cent affordable housing. This is because Berkeley got a grant from the government to cover it, after construction halted for nearly four years due to rising costs.

It’s clear that regulation is not the answer to the housing crisis: government investment is needed to provide the homes that Londoners can afford to live in. Policy makers live in fantasy land if they think that regulations, rather than developers’ balance sheets, control London's affordable housing supply. This system needs to change if we are to get the homes that Londoners need and deserve, and only government cash for local authorities will enable this.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE Clues Across 1 5 8 9 10 13 14 17

Hold back the chorus (7) Shapes the actors (5) Lose one's step in the dance (4) Somehow veins put years on face (8) Reproducing for existence ends in scolding (13) He has good taste (4) Encourage 21 to lose his head (4) With which the bird brained housewife clears the house? (7,6) 19 Read aloud in part (8) 20 Tree in which you hear the sap rising (4) 21 Swell surgeon, who fails to get on (5) 22 Contrary to present day poetry (7)

Clues Down 2 3 4 5 6 7 11 12 13 15 16 18

Strays include alternative mistakes (6) Drive back the enemy although about beat (7) Fine fable beggars description (9) Feature a type of porcelain (5) Where one doesn't mind being stranded (7) It sounds a trifling trick (7) Would he never have behaved in cavalier fashion? (9) Where the schoolboy betrays his friends (7) Hear about the girl? Who? Erica! (7) Sure to get movement (7) It's about places in the races (6) He gets a welcome lift (5)

QUICK PUZZLE Clues Across

1 Corrosive (7) 5 Occur again (5) 8 Pain (4) 9 Weight for athletes (8) 10 Tree (5,8) 13 Insect (4) 14 Always (4) 17 Questioning (13) 19 Vision (8) 20 Way out (4) 21 Examinations (5) 22 Plotter (7)

Clues Down 2 3 4 5 6 7 11 12 13 15 16 18

Nautical securing device (6) Relation (7) Pointer (9) Garments (5) More pure (7) Narrated (7) Vigorous (9) Three pronged implement (7) Accumulates (7) Utmost (7) Courteous (6) Destroys (5)

SOLUTIONS TO LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD CRYPTIC

Across: 4 Tricks 8 Weak tea 10 Lateral 11 Digit 12 Igloo 13 Sartorial 16 March past 19 Arena 20 Motor 22 Blasted 23 Suspend 24 Layers Down: 1 Swedes 2 Gang 3 Station master 5 Retail chemist 6 Carolina 7 Saloon 9 Alibi 14 Rosemary 15 Gambol 17 Reeds 18 Tirade 21 Tied

QUICK

Across: 4 Russet 8 Eternal 10 Andiron 11 Ounce 12 Rinse 13 Ferocious 16 Impeached 19 Thumb 20 Dream 22 Ennoble 23 Landing 24 Sudden Down: 1 Set off 2 Bean 3 Indescribable 5 Understanding 6 Strength 7 Tensed 9 Largo 14 Returned 15 Athens 17 Panel 18 Damage 21 Epic

18 ARTS

what’s on

ALL ABOARD FOR COCKFOSTERS!

TOM WOFFENDEN was born in Guildford and grew up dreaming of being funny: 'I loved doing impressions and quickly found myself in every school play and making people laugh - I wanted to be Mr Bean and Robin Williams with some Laurel and Hardy and Monty Python thrown in,' he says.

Then he went to study English and Politics at University of York, which is far from being funny, writes Michael Holland.

Underground: 'Taking the tube every day of my life, it just felt like a setting for something. I'd never written a play - but it felt like it had to be that. Start at one end of a line (Heathrow) and head towards the other end (Cockfosters) and work out what could happen at each tube stop along the way - which felt like an opportunity for a lot of characters. The structure did all the

Ray Davies and the return of Sunny Afternoon IT REMINDS me I why wrote the songs in the first place. The Olivier Award-winning Sunny Afternoon is back on tour, which gives those of us who see it first time round another chance to watch a great story and listen to some of the Sixties most classic tunes by The Kinks, writes Michael Holland.

Sunny Afternoon is not another Jukebox Musical of Kinks songs but a theatrical piece put together by the band's main songwriter, Ray Davies, alongside celebrated playwright Joe Penhall and director Edward Hall, to ensure it has authenticity, gravitas and integrity.

Ray Davies has been speaking about the tour and his feelings of a show that will remain timeless.

What has it been like for you seeing your songs and story come to life on stage?

Daunting at first. I was working on the storyline on and off for three years, but in many ways the story is contained within the songs. The

songs were written in such specific moments of my life and now they’ve been reinterpreted, given new context.

It’s humbling, and sometimes a bit surreal, to see the audience connect to those moments as if they’re happening now. It’s proof that the music still has a pulse.

How did you approach revisiting your own past?

With caution at the beginnin I didn’t want it to be just another jukebox musical. I wanted Sunny Afternoon to have heart, to show what it really felt like to live through that madness. We approached it as a piece of storytelling, not nostalgia. I went back to the songs and the memories behind them and tried to weave them into something honest. It wasn’t about polishing the past, it was about exploring it with the rawness that inspired the songs in the first place.

Did collaborating with director Edward Hall and writer Joe Penhall challenge your version of events in any way?

work! And it's such a familiar setting to so many it's easy to picture the show before you've even seen it! We're still surprised there wasn't already a long running tube set show before us...but now we can say we got there first!

Cockfosters started with a two night run in May 2023 at The Drayton Arms.

Now, Tom and Hamish are back at the Southwark Playhouse for a month over

Christmas.

'We've done six runs of the show and each time has been a different cast. It's been fantastic to have so many different actors come into the show and bring their own take on the characters. Beth Lilly has done nearly every show - I think she'll be on 88 performances out of 94 when the next run ends.'

Since it's first outing in a pub the

When you’ve lived something, you think you know the story inside out, but Edward (Hall) and Joe (Penhall) held up a mirror to it. They’d ask questions I hadn’t thought about in years and that made me reassess a lot of things. They didn’t rewrite my version, but they did expand it.

What memories stand out most vividly for you when you look back on that era?

The contrast, I think. One day we were scraping by in Muswell Hill, the

next we were banned from America.

There were moments of absolute chaos, and others of beautiful clarity.

Although we didn't appreciate it at the time, the band celebrated being at the height of British culture, everything felt bright and exciting after coming out of the darkness of the Second World War. What has it meant to showcase your back catalogue all in one place?

It’s been a gift. Songs like ‘Lola’ or ‘Days’ have their own lives, but when you hear them alongside ‘Dead End

Southwark Playhouse from 4th December - 3rd January.

Booking and full details: https://southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/ productions/cockfosters/

Photo by Phil Tragen

After graduating 'I worked in many unfunny jobs but was keen to give TV a go so freelanced for two years, working on Big Brother and Gogglebox; both very hard work but very rewarding.'

But Tom still wanted to be funny. 'I've always enjoyed writing. When I was about ten I wrote my own series of Blackadder!

I used to write my own episodes of The Simpsons, short stories...I used to make sketches on our home video camera. I think I always preferred escaping reality to being stuck in it.'

Tom considered writing a play didn't know how to put a play on. That's when he teamed up with Hamish Clayton who 'has had shows performed at The Edinburgh Fringe and Soho Theatre, so he had the knowledge I lacked.'

Together they wrote Cockfosters, a play about a journey on the

production has had to grow to fill the bigger venues. 'The set has grown massively,' begins the writer. 'Our tube carriage started as just nine chairs borrowed from a church. It's now made up of nine actual tube seats!'

This time at the Playhouse there will be some additions and alterations.

Tom reveals, 'We always like to keep the script fresh and make little changes here and there between each run. We look again at packing more jokes in and try and make things easier for ourselves wherever we can.

I wondered if Cockfosters being put on for Christmas is a good thing?

'Comedy at Christmas sounds good to me!' Tom says logically. 'If you're perhaps not a big fan of pantomimes, Elf or The Nutcracker then this is a good alternative.

Of course, we've thrown in a couple of Christmassy things - not a lot! - but a couple of things for a festive flourish.'

I travelled on the Cockfosters train when it pulled into Southwark in May and I said it was the best thing I'd seen this year. It's now November and I stick by that statement.

Street’ or ‘Sunny Afternoon’ you see the full picture. The musical gave me the chance to connect those dots for people, to show how the songs talk to each other. And it reminded me too, why I wrote them in the first place.

New Wimbledon Theatre, 93 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QG from 25th - 29th November.

Further London dates on the tour.

Booking and full tour details: https://uk.thekinksmusical.com/

ARTS 19

Interactive adaption of a Christmas classic by Hans Christian Andersen An interactive adaptation of the classic winter tale The Snow Queen opens at The Albany theatre in Deptford next week, writes Michael Holland...

Packed with original sing-along songs, puppetry, dance and lively audience interaction, this joyful reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairy tale celebrates friendship, warmth and the wonder of helping one another.

At its heart is Gerda, a fearless and curious young mouse who leads the adventure through magical woodland

worlds of snowy forests, starlit skies and icy landscapes—inviting children to discover their own courage and appreciation for the natural world along the way.

From artistic director Nancy Hirst, with design by Laura McEwen and original music by Eamonn O’Dwyer, The Snow Queen is a festive treat for children and their grown-ups alike.

It’s Christmas Eve in Bluebell Wood, and excitement is in the air.

Gerda, the littlest mouse, is hosting a cozy sleepover with her best friend

Kai. But something’s not quite right… A sudden chill sweeps through the trees.

The mysterious Snow Queen has cast an unhappiness spell over the forest, and Kai vanishes in a flurry of snow.

The audience join Gerda on her quest to find him. Along the way, she meets a mischievous squirrel, a clever crow and the babbling Brook, and must face the Snow Queen—a powerful snow leopard whose icy spell has frozen Bluebell Wood. Can Gerda break the spell and save her friend in time for Christmas?

Artistic Director, writer and director Nancy Hirst said, “After a decade of creating festive shows for early years audiences at The Brook Theatre in Chatham, I’m thrilled to be developing a new production at the Albany and taking it on the road.

“My ambition was to create an interactive experience that truly places children and their grown-ups at the heart of the story. Rarely do girls lead such adventures, and in Gerda I wanted to create a fearless, curious and determined protagonist, ensuring

young audiences see strength and potential reflected on stage.”

of perception. Cezanne’s influence is evident in Thiebaud's own work as he meticulously renders his subject matter to achieve his ideal of 'graphic power.'

Printmaking was key to Thiebaud’s methodology and there is an accompanying exhibition of wood block prints and copper etchings of cakes, pies, hotdogs and gumball dispensers, revealing Thiebaud’s obsessive desire to savour, look and repeat until he was replete enough to reproduce his earthly delights in paint.

Thiebaud’s Boston Cremes become so much more than mass-produced processed triangular slices of sugarrush mush. Buttery brush marks densely outline luscious subjects; varnish adds a sticky sensuality until you want to run your fingers along the piped cream. The painted cakes and cheeses look gloriously totemic, catching the light as they fill counters in corners of anonymous delis and diners, totally devoid of the hands of overworked and underpaid servers and busboys, and their chubby fingered patrons dicing with diabetic overload from so much calorific content. A dab of messy humanity would sour the taste of these stunning paintings.

These works are not simply nostalgia trips to a post-war era of uncomplicated gratification, they are insights into the American psyche, spoonful by sickly spoonful, staged performances of mass consumption and mass conformity. Too much is never enough and it is all just out of reach. Unrequited desire fills the room, pleasures are transient and it is all just for

show. The buttery scrumptious delights are made from oil paint, turpentine, and linseed oil - ingredients that would poison you if you tried to eat them.

Wayne Thiebaud: American Still Life is the perfect metaphor for the illusion that lies at the heart of all art, and all perception, because nothing in life is ever what it appears to be. This is the ad man at work. The similarities between

each piece of pie are presumed, but they are not uniform. 1960s America was a boom time, all- American apple pie, finger-licking good times for those that bought into the dream that were also chock full of anxiety and dissent from those that did not or could not afford to pay the price. The American dream was as much Madison Avenue construct as it was Capitol Hill creation. I feel

uneasily queasy as I leave the exhibition, intoxicated by Thiebaud’s gripping graphic potency but fast approaching a slump akin to a sugar rush. And yet, I am soon hungry for more.

The Snow Queen: A Woodland Adventure The Albany, Douglas Way, London SE8 4AG from 2 – 24 December 2025.

Tickets start at £14, the show is suitable for children 3 and over and lasts I hour Booking and full details: www.thealbany.org.uk

TWO ELDERLY ladies are looking at cakes and reminiscing about sweet treats from their youth. I ask them if they are feeling as hungry as me and they laugh and nod. We are surrounded by batches of triangular pie pieces, smeared with creamy icing, stickily oozing candy colours, each one bathed in an unusually sharp light that wraps them in warm blue shadow, writes Ed Gray.

This is not a bake-off moment at a horticultural society exhibition, and you really would not want to eat these carefully proffered offerings because these cakes are over 60 years old. The strong light is Californian, and we are in the Courtauld Gallery. The creamy fluid brushstrokes that have the power to make us dream of delectable delights of days of yore belong to the American painter Wayne Thiebaud (1920-2021), one time illustrator and commercial art director turned all-time great American artist, and this is an exhibition of his still lives, entitled American Still Life. I studied Thiebaud’s paintings at art college, making my own versions of cake shop life, but I have rarely seen one served up for real so it’s a great joy to tuck into a hearty portion of his painterly pieces.

The gallery entrance takes you past Manet and Cezanne and it’s a timely reminder of how important the work of post-impressionist painters was for young Thiebaud. Cezanne reduced pictorial elements to simple forms, repeating imagery, and subject matter in a perpetual search for the essence

Photo by Wayne Thiebaud Foundation

Review: Wayne Thiebaud: American Still Life at the Courtauld Gallery The Poetry of Pies

The Courtauld Gallery until January 18th 2026.

Booking and full details: https://courtauld.ac.uk/

20 EVENTS

© Baby Gospel / Woolwich Works

Events

Baby Gospel Christmas Special at Woolwich Works: The gospel concert where babies are welcome is returning to Woolwich Works for a Christmas special, with an uplifting family-friendly concert full of soul, gospel and festive music. Listen to the voices of CK Gospel Choir and sing along to classics like ‘Winter Wonderland’ and ‘Jingle Bells’ plus soul and Motown favourites. Everyone is welcome from newborns to school-aged kids, parents and grandparents. The concert lasts around 40-45 minutes.

Date: Sunday 7 December. Time: 10:30 Location: The Fireworks Factory, 11 No 1 St, Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6HD Price: £13.20 for adults, £11.00 child

© Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet / Blackheath Halls

Xmas Disco Ball at Blackheath Halls:

Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet Xmas Disco Ball is the ultimate disco night for adults, featuring much-loved tunes from the ‘70s and ‘80s.

Alongside a dance-off, there’s also a best outfi t competition and free retro sweets all night long. 10% of all profi ts will be going to Cancer Research UK. Date: Saturday 6 December. Time: 19:30 - 00:00 Location: Blackheath Halls. Price: £20

Christmas Wreath Making Workshop at the Admiral Hardy: Step into a historic Greenwich pub for a hands-on wreath workshop. Make your own natural wreath using a combination of fresh and preserved foliage, pinecones and dried fruits.

© Botanica & Field

Date: Wednesday 3 December Time: 18:00 - 20:00 Location: The Admiral Hardy, 7 College Approach, Greenwich, London, SE10 9HY Price: £75 per person

The Big Market at Fox and Firkin:

Date: Friday 5 and Saturday 6 December Time: 19:30 Friday, 14:30 and 19:30 Saturday Location: Tramshed, 51-53 Woolwich New Rd, London SE18 6ES Price: £12 adults, £6 children

hed

Date: Sunday 7 December Time: 12:00 - 18:00 Location: The Fox & Firkin, 316 Lewisham High St, London, SE13 6JZ Price: Free entry

For just £6 for children and £12 for adults, head to the Tramshed to watch the adventure of the Gingerbread man unfold as he sets off on a journey of a lifetime.

The performance will mix puppetry, music and humour and is suitable for ages 3+, lasting for one hour.

© The Gingerbread Ma n at Trams

The Big Market is back at the Fox and Firkin, with a a curated selection of 30 local makers, designers and small businesses. There’s free entry, free artist workshops, and a free craft area. There will be art, jewellery, records, ceramics, clothes, vintage items and much more.

The Gingerbread Man at the Tramshed:

HISTORY ARTS 21

History

© Mary Gosling 2014

Laundries, mangles and polishing the doorstep

© Debra Gosling 2020

NOT SLUMMING IT IN BERMONDSEY

'ard Graft in Old Kent Road

Window cleaning the old way

RIGHT FOLKS, I'm on my soapbox so stand by. I am Bermondsey born and bred and very proud of that fact.

But I am sick to the teeth of 'newbies' saying that old Bermondsey was full of slums.

Even a friend of mine, Bermondsey himself, declared that I used to live in a slum – he justified this comment by saying he'd always lived in a flat with an inside toilet!

My house was an eighteenth century cottage, and it might not have been to everyone's taste but it was home. We did have an outside toilet, but we had an inside one too, so stick that in your pipe, darling...

There were plenty of old houses in the area until the 1980s when things all changed and new flats built over the old buildings.

I was the last of the generation that remembers tin baths, washboards and back yards. But far from being a bunch of unwashed, lousy ignoramuses, Bermondsey people were clean, decent and hard-working.

Women worked but they kept house too, and made sure everyone went out in clean clothes.

Whitewash the Copper; black-lead the stove; Dolly Blue for the whites (if you know, you know) and don't forget the starch for his collars. These are just a few examples of life for generations of Bermondsey ladies.

Besides caring for many children there

was the preparation of all meals from scratch, shopping for food and part-time jobs. On top of it all there were rituals to attend to: Sunday; cook the roast; Monday; do the washing; Saturday, clean the house, top to bottom.

A really curious practice that only disappeared in the 1960s was the almost religious rite of doorstep polishing. You could either have a nice red doorstep or a white one, and there was a certain way of achieving this.

First off, you swept the pavement outside your house; then you washed the bit around the doorstep in a semi-circular sweeping motion. Then, for a nice shiny red doorstep you would buff it up with red cardinal polish until it gleamed.

Or for a nice white doorstep you'd get a hearthstone, or 'eart stone' as it was known, dip it in a bucket of water and cover your doorstep in its white chalk and let it dry.

Of course, once you had done your doorstep there was the washing to think about – no washing machines back then, it was all elbow grease and chapped fingers.

Everyone had a scrubbing board and at least one tin bath in their back yard.

On Monday that bath was taken down from its hook and in went bucket loads of water, along with a big red brick of Lifebuoy soap. The washboard, with its green glass ribbed panels, was lowered into the water and away you went, scrubbing off a week's worth of sweat and grime with your bare hands, in cold water, whatever the weather.

Then you put your clean laundry through

the mangle and wrung it out in the tin bath.

Before electricity was available the iron (damp rag around the handle) was heated on the fire. There was no ironing board, just a thick blanket over the table. As there were no temperature gauges, a quick dab with a damp, sizzling finger told you when it was hot.

Of course, the only problem with hanging your washing out in Bermondsey was the factories. All those chimneys left smudges on the sheets and infused them with a distinct odour. The aroma you got depended on the nearest factory: alright if it was Pink's strawberry jam but not so good if it was Young's glue. Another pungent smell was carbolic soap, strong enough to make your eyes smart, it was used for everything.

For the seriously big washing items such as sheets and blankets the old tin bath would not do, so it was away to the laundry. These forerunners of dry cleaners were dotted all over the place. Here your washing was put in a hopsack drawstring bag that had a laundry mark stamped in black on the bottom. Everything would go in together; sheets, towels, even underwear and socks. When it came back from the laundry it would be damp and fluffy – and stinking of bleach. As you emptied out your bagwash there would always be a rogue sock; unfamiliar and slightly alarming, a sock that belonged on some stranger's foot.

If, however, you wanted to splash out, so to speak, there were better quality laundries where your clothes would come back with starched collars, all nicely ironed

© Debra Gosling 2020

By Debra Gosling

Tinware in the back yard and ready to be hung up, all in a cellophane bag.

Window cleaning was another job that was ‘women's work’ – on certain days some houses would have their upper windows decorated by a woman's overallclad derriere!

Ladies could be seen sitting on the outside window sill as they polished the soot smears from the glass panes. In the early days it was a bucket of water with a slosh of vinegar and a chamois leather (pronounced 'shammy') but as the chemical industry took hold it was Windolene all the way. This lilac coloured liquid made pretty patterns as it was polished off, amid much squeaking, but what lovely sparkling windows!

Besides all the sweeping and brushing there was also the brass to be done.

Doorknobs, fenders and stair rods all had

a bit of Brasso applied to them. In fact, polishing brass was quite a satisfying job, seeing the tarnish coming off and the gleam returning. With the promise of an extra penny in the pocket, the schoolboy of the house could usually be persuaded to take on this essential little chore. No doubt much sliding down the bannisters also occurred on the pretence of ‘polishing’.

And, just to clarify, the tin bath was also used to actually bathe in, yes, with soap.

Then once you were all pink and shiny it had to be manually baled out and put back outside. But we were clean, thank you...

Today, with such advanced cleaning products the whole cleaning ritual is over and done in a couple of squirts and a twist of the washing machine button.

But I suppose the old outside toilet could always be sold for a pile as a bijou Bermondsey residence...

CLASSIFIED 23 CLASSIFIED AND COMMUNITY NOTICES

SUPPORT THE ROTHERHITHE SHED

ScotsCare is here to help and support Scots and their families Financial Support | Advocacy Counselling | Sheltered Housing Homelessness | Befriending Social Events I Volunteering

GO TO CROWFUNDER.CO.UK

Visit scotscare.com or call 0800 652 2989 to speak with a Client Support Worker to see how we can assist you.

Registered charity England and Wales (207326), Scotland (SC052739)

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

LPS AND SINGLES - WHOLE COLLECTIONS WELCOME

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

WANTED

CARS + VANS ANY CONDITION ANY AREA PROMPT & POLITE SERVICE TELEPHONE

020 8659 8988 ANY DAY, ANY TIME, 7 DAYS MOBILE

07850 323 508 CLASSIC & UNSUAL CARS ALSO WANTED

Southwark Pensioners’ Centre

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

ALSO INTERESTED IN NON CHART CD COLLECTIONS

Supporting older people in Southwark for over 35 years.

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

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

OUT ON THE FLOOR RECORDS 30 Years in Camden NW1

RECORDS WANTED!

REGGAE RECORDS + SKA, ROCKSTEADY, ROOTS ETC ALSO 60’s & 70’s ROCK, SOUL, JAZZ, HIP HOP, METAL ETC TOP MONEY PAID FOR QUALITY COLLECTIONS! Call Jake 020 7485 9958 or 07961 315 874

To place an advert email hello@cm-media.co.uk

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Memorial Jessie Julia MURPHY

Treasured memories of our very precious Mum, who fell asleep November 27th 2015.

We miss you so very much.

Now together with George.

From your loving Family. xxx

To place a funeral announcement, birthday, death notice, birth, anniversary or memorial in the paper, please email katie@cm-media.co.uk and she will price it up for you Announcements must be placed by 4pm on the Tuesday before that week's publication

24 PUBLIC NOTICES

Thursday, November 27th 2025

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (ABBEY STREET, GILKES CRESCENT, GILKES PLACE) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) 1.

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

2.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload at any time in: (2a) Abbey Street, between Enid Street and Druid Street (2b) Gilkes Crescent, between Calton Avenue and 34 Gilkes Crescent (2c) Gilkes Place, between Dulwich Village and its blocked end by Gilkes Crescent

3.

The alternative routes for affected traffic will be (2a) as indicated by the signs displayed (2b) Calton Avenue, Townley Road, East Dulwich Grove, Gilkes Crescent (2c) not applicable

4.

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

5.

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

6.

The closure will be in operation on the following dates (2a) 7th – 12th December (2b) 8th December (2c) 8th December

7.

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

Dated this 27TH November 2025

Transport for London Public Notice ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 THE A3 GLA ROAD (BOROUGH HIGH STREET, LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF STOPPING) (NO.2) ORDER 2025 1. Transport for London hereby gives notice that it intends to make the above named Trafc Order under section 14(1) of the Road Trafc Regulation Act 1984 for the purpose specied in paragraph 2. The effect of the Order is summarised in paragraph 3.

2. The purpose of the Order is to enable gully installation works to take place at A3 Borough High Street.

3. The effect of the Order will be to prohibit any vehicle from stopping on Borough High Street between its junctions with Southwark Street and Talbot Yard.

The Order will be effective at certain times from 9.30 AM on the 15th December 2025 until 5.00 PM on the 14th January 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 trafc 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 27th day of November 2025 Alan Davidson Area Manager Central, Transport for London Palestra, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NJ

Notice of Application for a Premises Licence Please take notice that plk Chicken UK Ltd have made application to the local licensing authority for a Premises Licence in respect of Popeyes, Unit SU88, London Bridge Station, London SE1 3QX for late night refreshment on and off daily until 1am.

A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley St, London SE1 2QH. A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also on our web site at: www. southwark.gov.uk. It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the grant of the premises licence on the promotion of the licensing objectives.

Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above or by email to licensing@southwark.gov.uk and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below.

Note: It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application liable on conviction to an unlimited fine.

Date of application: 23 November 2025 BA LAW info@balaw.co.uk

Join over 150,000 USERS to find out who’s applying for what and where in your community. publicnoticeportal.uk

Ian Law Traffic Manager, London Borough of Southwark, Network Management, Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street, PO Box 64529, London, SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) LBSCR14239/mgroup transport (2b) 12652373/conway (2c) 56851044/conway LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

London Borough of Southwark

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1)

LATE NIGHT LEVY NOTICE OF PROPOSAL TO VARY THE LATE NIGHT LEVY IN THE LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK Part 2, Chapter 2 of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 The Late Night Levy (Application and Administration) Regulations 2012 The Late Night Levy (Expenses, Exemptions and Reductions) Regulations 2012 The London Borough of Southwark is hereby giving notice of its proposal to vary the late night levy that was introduced on 1 September 2019 to include premises licensed to provide the provision of late night refreshment between midnight and 6am (00:00 to 06:00 hours) in the borough of Southwark.

TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC (LINDEN GROVE) & TEMPORARY WAITING AND LOADING RESTRICTIONS (ASYLUM ROAD) 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice, that, it intends, to make an order, the effect of which would be to prohibit vehicles and to introduce ‘at any time’ waiting and loading restrictions as detailed below.

2.

Whilst the restriction is in place, and whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to wait, including waiting for the purpose of loading and unloading at any time in: (a) Linden Grove, will be closed between Limes Walk and Water Mews (b) Asylum Road, ‘at any time’ waiting and loading restrictions will be introduced, between No’s 98 and No’s 68 on both sides of the carriageway.

A Summary of the proposed Variation is: 1. The Council’s proposed variation of the late night levy will be introduced on 01 April 2026.

2. The Council’s proposed late night supply period will begin at 00:00hrs and end at 06:00hrs.

3. The Council propose the following permitted categories of premises will be exempt from paying the levy as defined in the Late Night Levy (Expenses, Exemptions and Reductions) Regulations 2012: a) Premises with overnight accommodation, where the provision of late-night refreshment can only be supplied to persons staying at the premises for consumption on the premises. b) Theatres and cinemas. c) Bingo Halls. d) Community Amateur Sports Clubs. e) Community premises.

4. The Council proposes that a reduction of 30% be granted to premises that are within a defined Business Improvement District (BID) as defined in regulations 5 (1) (a) and 5 (4) of the above Expenses, Exemptions and Reductions Regulations 2012.

5. The Council is not proposing to apply any other exemptions or reductions.

6. The Council will allow Licence holders to make an application to vary their Licence under sections 41A or 86A (minor variation) of the Licensing Act 2003. There will be no fee for such a valid application provided it is received by the Council within the 2-month period directly following the date of a formal decision notice to vary the Levy. This applies only to the reduction of licensed hours for the provision of late-night refreshment so they do not fall within the operational hours of the Levy (00:00 to 06:00 hours).

The Council would like to hear your views on its proposal to vary the Late Night Levy within the London Borough of Southwark. Please note that there is a 4 week consultation period therefore the Council must receive your views from 24 November 2025 and no later than midnight on 22 December 2025, otherwise we will not be able to consider them.

To view our proposal and complete the survey please visit the Council’s website at: Project: Variation of the Late Night Levy to Include Lat... | London Borough of Southwark or you can email us at: Regulatory Services Licensing Unit PO Box 64529 Hub 1, Floor 3 London, SE1P 5LX Email: Licensing@southwark.gov.uk Date: November 2025

3.

The alternative route will be: (2a) Linden Grove, Nunhead Grove, Nunhead Lane (2b) not applicable

4.

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

5.

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

6.

The restriction will come into force for (2a) 12th – 13th & 19th – 20th December (2b) 12th – 15th December

7.

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

Dated this 27th November 2025 Ian Law Traffic Manager London Borough of Southwark Network Management Environment, Neighbourhoods and Growth 160 Tooley Street PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX 160 Tooley Street, PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) LBSCR14181-2/ LBSCR14181-3 (2b) SLS/000811560650045/thames

To place a public notice, please email hello@cm‐media.co.uk or call 020 7232 1639 Deadline is 3pm on Wednesdays

View all notices and sign up to the Public Notice Portal at www.southlondon.co.uk/category/public‐notices/

PUBLIC NOTICES 25

Thursday, November 27th 2025

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK TOWN & COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 (as amended) PLANNING (LISTED BUILDINGS AND CONSERVATION AREAS) ACT 1990 (as amended) The planning applications listed below can be viewed on the planning register at https://planning.southwark.gov.uk/online-applications/ You can use facilities at your local library or 'My Southwark Service Points' to access the website.

How to comment on this application: You should submit your comments via the above link. Comments received will be made available for public viewing on the website. All personal information will be removed except your postal address. Online comments submitted without an email address will not be acknowledged and those marked 'confidential' will not be considered. Written comments can be submitted to; Southwark Council, Planning division, Development Management, PO Box 64529, London SE1 5LX. Reason for publicity. The applications are advertised for the reasons identified by the following codes: AFFECT - development affecting character or appearance of a nearby conservation area; OR development affecting setting of a nearby listed building(s); DEP - departure from the development plan; EIA - environmental impact assessment (these applications are accompanied by an environmental statement a copy of which may be obtained from the Council - there will be a charge for the copy); MAJ - major planning application; PIP - application is for Permission in Principle; S106 - ; STDCA - development within a conservation area; STDLB - works to or within the site of a listed building; 3 BUTTERWORTH TERRACE SUTHERLAND WALK LONDON SOUTHWARK SE17 3EJ (Ref: 25/AP/2410) Construction of a single-storey rear extension (retrospective), including the installation of a patio door to the extension (proposed). (amended description) (Within: Walworth Road Sutherland Square CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Susherrie Suki 020 7525 0646) 193 BROOK DRIVE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE11 4TG (Ref: 25/AP/2720) Converting the existing loft into a habitable room, including a rear-facing dormer to increase floor area. (Within: Elliot's Row CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Agneta Kabele 020 7525 3148) 168 BURBAGE ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE21 7AG (Ref: 25/AP/3344) Construction for the erection of 3x dormers on rear elevation roof. (Within: Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Gabriel Neri 020 7525 2707) 41 CLIFTON CRESCENT LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 2RX (Ref: 25/AP/3305) Listed building consent for the replacement of two first-floor timber sash windows on the front elevation incorporating slimline double glazing Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Sandy Ng 020 7525 3244) 42 ST MARY NEWINGTON CLOSE SURREY SQUARE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE17 2LP(Ref: 25/AP/2862) Redevelopment of the site comprising demolition of the existing Almshouse Building and erection of a replacement part 4-6 storey Almshouse

Building (Class C3) together with amenity spaces, and other associated works incidental to the development Reason(s) for publicity: MAJ (Contact: Andy Sloane 020 7525 0525) 118 BURBAGE ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE24 9HD (Ref: 25/AP/3255) Replacement of existing vehicle gate and additional pedestrian gate in the front garden.

(Within: Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Joseph Vadilonga 020 7525 5341) 44 HENSHAW STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE17 1PD (Ref: 25/AP/3235) Variation of Conditions 1 (Approved Plans) for planning permission ref. 25/AP/1819. The proposed changes to the condition are minor design amendments to facilitate a better and functional space that would not affect the approved designs significantly. The changes to the existing conditions will include an increase in the overall width of the single-storey rear extension, alterations to the size of the rear bifold doors, and a slight increase in the depth of the first-floor extension (Within: Yates Estate And Victory CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Joseph Vadilonga 020 7525 5341) 145 COURT LANE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE21 7EE (Ref: 25/AP/3369) A full house renovation including a lower-ground floor with front and rear lightwells, construction of a ground-floor rear extension, internal alterations on all floors, refurbishment of the existing elevations and windows, alterations to the loft including revised staircase and refurbished dormer, and installation of an air source heat pump.

(Within: Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for

Notice of Application for a Premises Licence made under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003 Please take notice that America Street Ltd has made an application to Southwark Council for a new Premises Licence in respect of Arch 37, America Street, Southwark, SE1 0NJ. The relevant licensable activities proposed to be carried on, or from the premises are: Sale of alcohol by retail:

Days Sunday to Wednesday Thursday to Saturday

Start time 11am 11am

Finish time 11pm 1am

Provision of regulated entertainment:

Sunday to Wednesday Thursday to Saturday

4pm 4pm

11pm 1am

Provision of late night refreshment:

Thursday to Saturday

11pm

1am

Opening hours:

Sunday to Wednesday Thursday to Saturday

11am 11am

11pm 1am

A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH. A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000, details are also available on our website at https://app.southwark.gov.uk/ It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above (or by email via licensing@southwark.gov.uk) and be received by the Licensing Unit by 1 December 2025. 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 not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale.

Date of application: 15th November 2025

STAY INFORMED ABOUT BUILDING PLANS FOR YOUR COMMUNITY. Visit: publicnoticeportal.uk

Keeping you informed.

publicity: STDCA (Contact: Tyrell Taylor ) GOOSE GREEN PRIMARY SCHOOL TINTAGEL CRESCENT LONDON SOUTHWARK SE22 8HG (Ref: 25/AP/3379) Listed Building Consent for demolish entrance steps along with the supporting walls and reconstruct using as much retained material as possible off new new foundations - due to subsidence. Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Tracy Chapman 020 7525 1948) 33 HAYLES STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE11 4SU (Ref: 25/AP/3343) Replacement of timber sash windows entirely like-for-like, all matching the existing style and detailing, no. three 6 over 6 and no. two 1 over 1. (Within: Elliot's Row CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Agneta Kabele 020 7525 3148) 161 LYNTON ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 5QX (Ref: 25/AP/3420) Construction of a single storey side extension, demolition and rebuilding of a boundary garden wall, installation of a new fixed skylight at roof level to the main house, re-glazing of all existing windows with double glazing, and like-for-like replacement of the front door. (Within: Thorburn Square CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: James Holmes 020 7525 0803) Dated: 25 Nov 2025 - comments to be received within 21 days of this date (or 14 days for Permission in Principle, 30 days for EIA development).

STEPHEN PLATTS Director of Planning and Growth

STAY INFORMED Join over 150,000 USERS to find out who’s applying for what and where in your community.

The Public Notice Portal is a free to use, online service that will tell you who is applying for what and where.

Plus, if you register, we’ll tell you about any plans for your community, helping you to stay informed.

Visit: publicnoticeportal.uk

Keeping you informed.

Supported by Google News Initiative and the News Media Association

28 SPORT

Ballers Academy members catch the eye of professional clubs

The past month has been an exciting period for Ballers Academy, with a growing number of young players invited to train with professional clubs.

In the last six weeks alone, 12 academy members have received such opportunities, highlighting both the talent within the Academy and across Southwark, as well as the reputation Ballers has built in the football community.

Advertorial

Founder Jamie Mehmet explained that Ballers Academy’s doors have always been open to professional clubs, with scouts and guest coaches regularly attending sessions, giving members the chance to be spotted. He said this approach ensures every young player has a genuine opportunity to be noticed by clubs at all levels.

“We work with all pro clubs as each one looks for something slightly different,” he said. “If a player does not fit one club, it does not mean they will not suit another. In recent weeks we have had visits from Arsenal, Chelsea, Leyton Orient and Millwall, which is fantastic for our members.”

Mehmet added that while the recent invitations are encouraging, Ballers Academy’s mission extends further.

“We cater for all ages, levels and abilities across our programmes.

Alongside our main development programme, we work with a number of partners to deliver free community programmes, giving every young

Skin cancer screening specialists We have a clinic in London Bridge and offer single moles checks, full body skin checks and mole mapping.

Our specialist nurses will carry out an examination to identify any visually atypical mole or moles.

9 St Thomas St, London SE1 9RS We also have clinics nationwide. www.themoleclinic.co.uk

person in Southwark the chance to play, develop and enjoy football.

We also help support participants into competitive grassroots football, with local clubs regularly requesting Ballers Academy’s support in recruiting players.”

A key factor behind the Academy’s success is its coaching team. Sessions are delivered by experienced coaches, including former Cardiff City manager Omer Riza, Leyton Orient’s Head of Academy Coaching Dean Palmer, and experienced A-Licenced coaches who have worked within the professional system, including AFC Wimbledon and Tottenham Hotspur. Former

professional footballers including Jack Sammoutis, Craig Dundas, Billy Mehmet and Tom Beere also contribute. Alongside them, Ballers Academy has a talented group of coaches progressing through coaching badges, bringing fresh ideas and energy.

This mix of experience and emerging talent provides a depth of knowledge rarely seen at grassroots level. The coaches develop players’ football ability while supporting their personal growth, helping them build confidence, resilience and teamwork. They act as mentors as well as coaches, offering guidance on and off the pitch.

15% discount using code LB15* Discount can be redeemed against single mole checks, full body skin checks or mole mapping appointments at any of our clinics nationwide. Please quote code LB15 at time of booking.

98%

of reviewers recommend The MOLE Clinic “The MOLE Clinic offers the most thorough and technologically advanced techniques for skin cancer diagnosis in the UK” The Times

Mehmet believes the variety of coaches, combined with trusted relationships with professional clubs built over many years and a proven track record, has been central to recent opportunities. “Having coaches from different backgrounds gives our members fresh ideas and new challenges,” he said. “It helps them grow both as footballers and as young people.”

With more young people joining our programmes and further opportunities on the horizon, Ballers Academy remains committed to helping every player reach their full potential.

SPORT 29

TOKEI DOMINATES CRYSTAL PALACE EVENT

By John Kelly BERMONDSEY CLUB Tokei packed the podiums at the International BKG Karate Tournament at Crystal Palace this month.

In the boys aged 12-13 category, Erik Kuhn (-45kg), Yodai Suzuki (-50kg) and Jayden Ramsey (-55kg) claimed

Hamlet frustrated

By John Kelly

DULWICH HAMLET were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw against Isthmian League Premier Division strugglers Hashtag United at Champion Hill last weekend.

© Rob Avis

Tom Chambers gave Mark Dacey’s hosts the lead in the 49th minute but the visitors levelled 20 minutes from time through Josh Rusoke in front of a 2,685 attendance.

The Hamlet are seventh in the table, two points outside the play-offs.

Dulwich play Dartford at Princes Park this Saturday (3pm).

Hamlet boss Mark Dacey

first places.

In the girls’ 12-13 age group, Angela Neuman (+50kg) claimed another first, while Shiraz Anjum Ahmed (+50kg) was third.

The adult team also secured a podium spot through a powerful performance from Brandon Gray (-70kg), who was third.

The club said: “We are bursting with

pride after an incredible performance at the International BKG Karate Tournament. Our team demonstrated exceptional skill, spirit and dedication, bringing home a huge haul of trophies.

“Huge congratulations to every competitor for their hard work and success representing Tokei Kyokushin Karate and the UK with such distinction.”

Left to right: Yodai Suzuki, Angela Neuman, Jayden Ramsey, Brandon Gray, Shiraz Anjum Ahmed, Erik Kuhn

Surrey quartet get England calls

By Sports Reporter A QUARTET of Surrey players have been named in the 202526 England Performance Programme and under-19 training squad.

Kira Chathli and Tilly CorteenColeman have been rewarded with selection for the programme after a successful season with the bat and ball. Wicketkeeper-bat Chathli started her season strongly with a careerbest of 95 against Hampshire in the Vitality County Cup and replaced Heather Knight for London Spirit in the Hundred. Chathli scored 220 runs with a high score of 69 and a 150.68 strike rate.

Left-arm orthodox Corteen-Coleman has featured heavily in the Three Feathers’ inaugural year, contributing across all three competitions and taking eight wickets in the Vitality Blast.

Alexa Stonehouse - currently on a

one-year loan to Warwickshire - was part of England’s Pace Programme last season, an initiative designed to target the development of key pace bowlers outside of the core England Women central contract list. Stonehouse will continue her development with the Three Lions.

Academy all-rounder Gen Jeer joins the under-19 winter training squad following an impressive season with the academy and second XI. England Women’s Head of Performance Pathways Richard Bedbrook said: “The purpose of the Performance Programme is to provide development opportunities to players across various skill-sets, on the back of the successful Pace Programme last winter.

“This programme will provide individualised support, designed to accelerate each player’s development, working in collaboration with their county staff. The ultimate ambition

is to provide each player with an opportunity to push their case for future England selection through continued performances within the domestic game and any England Women pathway activity.

“There are three overseas training camps for England Women across January, February and March 2026 that players from this Performance Programme could well be a part of. Such opportunities will provide further experiences and exposure for these players on top of the training camps that will place at the National Cricket Performance Centre.

“For the under-19s, there are eight camps at the National Cricket Performance Centre across the winter as this programme builds towards a tri-series against Australia and Sri Lanka in March/April 2026.

The final England Women under-19 touring party for the tri-series will be determined in the New Year.”

Bark worse for Lionesses

By John Kelly

MILLWALL LIONESSES’ run of four league matches unbeaten with four consecutive clean sheets came to a brutal end as they lost 6-1 against Barking at Mayesbrook Park Lodge Avenue.

Shawna Harvey scored a hat-trick for the hosts with Asanteni Charles, Dan Carlton and Emilia Parsons were also on target.

Kanita Throp scored the Lionesses’ goal as Ted Jones’s side trailed 3-1 at half-time.

Millwall are seventh in the twelveteam table with eighteen points from twelve games.

The Lionesses are back at St Paul’s this Sunday when they face Sport London E Benfica in the first round of the L&SERWFL Trophy (1.30pm).

Dubois pulls out of Usyk eliminator Kozak moment

By John Kelly DANIEL DUBOIS has withdrawn from a world title eliminator against Frank Sanchez - ending a chance of a third shot at Oleksandr Usyk.

Dubois has fought the unbeaten Ukrainian twice and was stopped both times.

"The eliminator holds little value

right now for Daniel,” A spokesperson for Dubois' promoter Queensberry told Sky Sports. “Derek Chisora was named the IBF mandatory at their last convention so the fight versus Frank Sanchez is to be installed as next in line after Chisora.

"Add to that the IBF is last in the queue of the unified championships held by Usyk. If Daniel accepted the

fight, it would also limit his options with the other organisations.

"Daniel was proud to be IBF champion but the order and fight itself do little for his career and getting him back into a position to fight for a world title.

"Daniel will be back in 2026 and there are some huge fights out there for him."

By John Kelly FISHER BEAT Snodland Town 4-2 on penalties in the Kent Senior Trophy second round last weekend.

Festos Kamara and Alex Kozak scored for the Fish in normal time.

Donald Macaulay scored Fisher’s first in the shootout before Dan Carpanini

saved Snodland’s first spot-kick.

Festos Kamara and Michael Sarpong bagged the second and third penalties with Sondland replaying both times.

Kozak slammed his effort emphatically into the roof of the net before the hosts missed their second penalty.

That sent Ajay Ashanike’s side through to a January quarter-final.

30 SPORT SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP Portsmouth - 3 Swanson 22’, Crama (OG) 51’, Williams 89’ Millwall - 1 Ivanovic 72’

Millwall compete for a set-piece

Date: Saturday 22 November 2025 Man of the match: Márk Kosznovszky Referee: Michael Salisbury Attendance: 20,423 (2,180)

By Will Scott at Fratton Park PORTSMOUTH BEAT ten-man Millwall amid torrential rain at Fratton Park behind long-range strikes from Zak Swanson and Jordan Williams and an own goal by Tristan Crama.

Pompey headed into the match without a win in six but soon took the lead against the lacklustre Lions when Swanson cannoned the ball into the net from distance.

Millwall improved after the half but found themselves further behind when Adrian Segecic's cross deflected off Crama and spiralled into the net.

Their fortunes were further dampened when Joe Bryan was issued with a straight red card for a late challenge on Callum Lang, although Mihailo Ivanovic's finish from Aidomo Emakhu's corner five minutes later gave Millwall hope.

That hope was soon extinguished

by Williams' late solo strike, which condemned Millwall to their fourth game without a win.

Neil's side showed fight when they went down to ten men, but lacked quality in the final third for most of the match, a theme that has cropped up throughout the season.

At the outset of the match, you would have been hard-pressed to predict that four goals would be scored, with the calibre of play on the pitch matching the miserable weather conditions.

The opening fifteen minutes were a physical and scrappy affair, which mostly lacked quality, aside from a few clipped balls into the box from Danny McNamara and Alfie Doughty.

Pompey settled into the match quicker and soon were in the ascendancy, with Segecic forcing out a low save from Max Crocombe in the sixteenth minute following some good work by Josh Murphy.

They had the opener not long after, when Swanson slammed the ball into the roof of

TEN-MAN MILLWALL OUTCLASSED Undermanned Lions disappoint on the south coast

the net from range in the 22nd minute.

Portsmouth looked more likely of the two sides to grab the next goal, and nearly had a second within minutes of their first.

Crocombe came out to clear a ball over the top and was nearly caught in no man's land, but recovered to keep out Segecic's effort.

Millwall stabilised in the next ten minutes, but came no closer to pulling one back, while they suffered more bad news when Zak Sturge had to be stretchered off in the 37th minute after being smacked in the face with the ball.

The Lions started to generate halfchances in the dying minutes of the half.

From Millwall's first corner of the game in the 40th minute, Doughty floated it directly to Mazou-Sacko on the edge of the box, whose low volley was kept out.

Two minutes later, Thierno Ballo chipped the ball towards the back post towards Doughty, whose effort hit the side netting.

Millwall needed a response in the second

half and looked brighter after the interval.

In the 46th minute, Joe Bryan found the overlapping Casper De Norre, who cut it back into the box. Macaulay Langstaff swivelled, but his effort was blocked for a corner. Danny McNamara fired over from the resulting set-piece.

Despite the Lions' efforts, it would be Pompey who scored the next goal.

In the 51st minute, Segecic's cross into the box was deflected off Crama’s outstretched leg and snuck in under the bar.

Millwall were hit with more bad injury luck when Derek Mazou-Sacko went down and had to be replaced by Dan Kelly in the 55th minute Neil made a triple change on the hour mark to try to wrest control back of the game, bringing on Wes Harding, Aidomo Emakhu and Luke Cundle.

It immediately yielded a chance, with Kelly's long-range effort forcing out a low

Inexperience cost Millwall

By Will Scott

ALEX NEIL thinks Millwall’s lack of experience hampered his side during their 3-1 loss to Portsmouth.

The Lions were without several senior players at Fratton Park, including captain Jake Cooper, who was suspended after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season.

Only three of the eleven players who started for Millwall had previously played several seasons in the Championship, and Neil’s inexperienced side were comprehensively undone on the south coast.

Neil was asked by this paper after the game what needed to be improved.

“We certainly lack experience as a group at the moment,” Neil said.

“When

Alex Neil ahead of the game

save from Schmid.

However, the Lions' chances of getting something out of the game greatly diminished in the 67th minute when Joe Bryan dragged down Callum Lang in transition and was perhaps harshly issued a red card by referee Michael Salisbury.

Pompey looked to capitalise on their advantage, and Florian Bianchini put one wide shortly after.

Surprisingly, it was the Lions who pulled one back shortly after going down to ten men. Ivanovic smashed Emakhu's corner into the back of the net to reduce the margin to just one goal.

Portsmouth's extra man started to make a difference, and they had most of the chances as the match became increasingly stretched and end-to-end. Callum Lang had two opportunities in the 83rd minute to put the match to bed, but the first was blocked by Crama, then Crocombe expertly saved the follow-up.

you've got guys like Coops and [Ryan] Lenny and Billy [Mitchell] and all these boys missing, it's naturally difficult for a lot of the other lads to come in and do it on a regular basis. You can manage to put them in here and there and get them some game time, which is good. That's not the reason for the defeat.

“I think as a group we should have retained the ball better. We didn't, and then what happens is you end up having to press all the time. Then, when that happens, you're tired when you get the ball back. I didn't think we dealt with first balls up either. There's one at the end, the lad punts it, and they end up getting a corner, we don't deal with the first header. They're just basics for us that we are normally very good at.”

Neil was also disappointed with his side’s defending during Pompey’s goals.

“I think that the nature of the goals we conceded as well, particularly the second and the third for me, were extremely frustrating because I thought we should have done a lot better with both,” Neil said.

“I need to see it [Crama’s own goal] back, but it looks to me as if it's come across, and we just need to either get something on it.

We miss it, and it ends up in the back of the net.”

Pompey scored their third in the 89th minute when Williams drove through Millwall's defence before slamming the ball into the back of the net from well outside the box.

Millwall - 4-4-2: Crocombe; McNamara (Harding 62), Crama, Taylor, Sturge (Bryan 37); Ballo (Neghli 81), De Norre, MazouSacko (Kelly 55), Doughty (Emakhu 62); Ivanovic, Langstaff (Cundle 62) Unused substitutes: Benda, Grant, Bangura-Williams

Portsmouth - 4-2-3-1: Schmid; Devlin, Poole, Knight, Swanson (Williams 69); Dozzell (Pack 80), Kosznovszky; Bianchini (Chaplin 80), Segecic (Lang 61), Murphy; Bishop Unused substitutes: Bursik, Swift, Matthews, Kirk, Yang

Neil calls Bryan red card ’very dubious’

By Will Scott ALEX NEIL called the second-half red card issued to Joe Bryan in Millwall's 3-1 loss to Portsmouth "very dubious".

With the Lions 2-0 down in the 67th minute, a Millwall corner was cleared and punted up to Callum Lang on the halfway line. Bryan was the last player back and flew into the challenge, hauling down Lang without winning the ball.

Referee Michael Salisbury brandished a red card to reduce the Lions to ten men.

Neil gave his reaction to the dismissal after the game.

"I think it's very dubious whether it is a sending off, but Joe should not give them the opportunity to do that," Neil

said. "I think the reaction of the players, the reaction of the fans, it doesn't surprise me that the referee went over and brandished a red card. I think Joe's tried to get the ball because otherwise he's running wide and he's at the halfway line."

"I think he delayed too long. He should have got across earlier.

I was shouting at him from the side. I could see it happening, and he delayed and delayed and delayed. If you're going to delay, you need to make sure you make clean contact with the ball.

"I'll have to look at it back, I haven't seen it since. My instinct at the time is that it's unlikely.

But then the minute I saw all the players run around and the fans start screaming, I thought, 'Yeah, he's going to get sucked into that.' And he did."

SPORT 31 EXCLUSIVE

By Will Scott

Oliver Whitby

AS A pre-teen, Oliver Whitby found himself caught between two south London rivals.

Millwall moved first, inviting him to trial after spotting him at a school football match. Crystal Palace were not far behind, aware of him after he attended some of their camps.

“As soon as they [Crystal Palace] found out that Millwall offered me a trial, they offered me a trial, but I said I’d do the Millwall trial,” Whitby told this paper.

“They [Crystal Palace] seemed pretty keen on me.

“Millwall just kind of snapped me up, and I took it.”

The Lions did not let him out of their grasp once he stepped onto the pitches at Well Hall.

“I was on trial for maybe four or five weeks, and they signed me without even seeing me in a game,” he said.

It was a coup to snap up a player who grew up in Sydenham, closer to Selhurst Park than The Den. The midfielder’s footballing education has always been in south-east London, playing Sunday league for Dulwich Hamlet before signing for Millwall.

“There was no age group in my age, so I had to play one age group above, but it was more just fun,” he said. “I always knew that I wanted to be a footballer from a very young age, but it was never a serious thing until I signed. Then I was really training to become a professional.”

Whitby, now nineteen, initially found the adjustment to academy football tricky.

“When I first signed, it was all new to me, and I was a bit overwhelmed,” he said.

“It took me a year to really find my feet, and then from then on, I was always pretty comfortable. I got my early scholarship when I was fifteen. I was playing up a fair bit from fourteen onwards. I was always pretty confident that I was going to be retained.”

“I always enjoyed it. There was never a time when I didn't enjoy it. But it was very cutthroat. It's such a strange thing - you'll form a really strong bond with someone, and then they'll be gone. You'll speak to them once or twice a year over Instagram, and then that's it.”

The next big leap for Whitby was after he received his scholarship and made the step up to the under-18s.

“It was a big jump because my game's never really been physical, and it's obviously a very physical step up,” he said. “But it's a good thing. You learn how to play to your strengths more.

“Going into full-time as well, it feels more like you're a professional. It feels more like you're a real footballer.”

“In my first year, I'd say I was quite in and out of form. Then my second year

‘IT’S A GREAT COMMUNITY CLUB’ Under-21s midfielder Oliver Whitby opens up on choosing between south-London rivals, nerves overpro deal and the advice that stuck with him

was when I found my feet. I played well in the Youth Cup, had some good performances, and at the end of the year, I got my pro deal. It took longer than expected, but it was all right in the end.”

Whitby was part of the bumper crop of under-18s players who signed professional deals ahead of the current season.

Sheldon Kendall and Jakob Przewozny signed their contracts in January before five more, including Whitby, were announced in August.

Whitby and his fellow future pros were left in the dark heading into decision day in May. “[I found out] on the day,” he said.

“They were keeping their cards close to their chest, so no one had any clue.

Apart from Jakob and Sheldon, who got theirs in January. But there were five of us who got a contract, but we had no

clue until the day.

“I was pretty confident in myself that I deserved one, but I didn't really know if I was suited. Your mind just goes off on its own thing in that situation.

“You convince yourself of stuff that is just silly, and then after it, when everything's said and done, you realise that was silly. But in the moment, I didn't really know, but I was confident that I deserved one.”

Again, Whitby took time to adjust the next step up in his career - playing for Kevin Nugent and Paul Robinson’s under-21s.

“I had a bit of a rocky pre-season,” he said. “I was struggling with my hip quite a bit. I'm still not over that, but I'm getting over it. I feel like I've definitely adapted now.

“I've enjoyed it. It's a lot more professional, I think. The facilities, the

Zak Lovelace is ‘on the right path’ EXCLUSIVE

By Will Scott ALEX NEIL said Zak Lovelace is "on the right path" as he ramps up his recovery from a knee injury.

Lovelace, nineteen, rejoined the Lions from Rangers in January but underwent surgery the next month, ruling him out for the rest of the 2024-25 season.

The forward returned to light training during pre-season, before rejoining first-team training in

September and making his first appearance for the under-21s that month.

Lovelace has featured for Kevin Nugent’s side in their three most recent games.

In the first week of the international break, he played 62 minutes against AFC Bournemouth on Tuesday, November 11, then the first half against Queens Park Rangers on Friday, November 14.

Lovelace also featured against Swansea City in the Premier League Cup last Friday, playing 61 minutes.

coaching and stuff like that. I really enjoyed it.”

Playing for the under-21s entails regularly training with the senior team, the speed of which took some getting used to.

“It's a lot quicker,” Whitby said. “I remember the first time I went up, we were doing a small-sided game, and I was blowing straight away, which surprised me. It's been good, and everyone's really friendly. They all look after you.”

Whitby namedropped Billy Mitchell and Ra’ees Bangura-Williams as players who particularly helped him.

Asked if there was any specific advice they gave that stuck out to him, he said: “They told me to be busy. Be really busy and play the Millwall way. Once you get that down, then I can do the things that I'm good at.”

Neil gave our paper the latest on his recovery.

"He's a little bit behind the likes of Dan [McNamara]," Neil said. "Dan's been largely available for months now in terms of getting minutes in his legs and training.

"Zak is a little bit of a slow burner in that regard, but he's making good progress. He's playing more minutes in the under-21s.

"He had his first double game week in that he played in both matches, albeit not particularly long in the second one. So he's on the right path." Zak Lovelace in training after rejoining Millwall

Whitby, who idolised Mesut Ozil as a kid, pinpointed exactly what those things were “My strength is on the ball, just my technique, controlling the game and the tempo of the game,” he said. “I think I could work on my physicality. I'm not the quickest, but I feel like I'm good at working around that. I try to play to my strengths as often as I can.”

The silky midfielder could be the next technician to emerge from Millwall academy, following in the footsteps of Bangura-Williams and Romain Esse, and emphasised how much he has embraced the club that gave him his first professional deal.

“If I tell people who don't really know much about Millwall that I play for Millwall, they assume the worst,” he said. “But it couldn't be further from the truth. It's a great community club.”

Millwall

VS

Southampton Championship Saturday, November 29 (3pm) Possible Millwall starting XI: 4-2-3-1: Crocombe; McNamara, Cooper, Crama, Doughty; De Norre, Cundle; Emakhu, Neghli, Ballo; Ivanovic Last meeting: Championship (February 24, 2024): Southampton 1-2 Millwall (Adams 34’) (Tanganga 5', Flemming (P) 44’) Match odds: Millwall 2/1 Draw 9/4 Southampton 13/10

INSIDE

Sport Southwark

TOKEI DOMINATES CRYSTAL PALACE EVENT PAGE 29 Paul Ifill had seven successful seasons at The Den

Trio to miss Saints clash

By Will Scott DEREK MAZOU-SACKO and Zak Sturge are expected to miss Millwall’s clash with Southampton at The Den on Saturday after picking up injuries against Portsmouth last weekend, while Joe Bryan will be suspended.

IFILL BACKS LIONS FOR PLAY-OFFS Millwall icon hopes they do ‘something really special’ this season EXCLUSIVE

By Will Scott PAUL IFILL hopes Millwall do “something really special” this season - and revealed he wanted to become a one-club man before he was sold to Sheffield United in 2005.

Ifill, 46, was rejected by Watford’s academy and was playing nonleague football in Brighton before being given a chance by the Lions as a teenager.

The winger repaid the trust shown in him by making 261 appearances for Millwall across seven seasons, scoring 43 goals.

His Millwall career came to an end in 2005 when he was signed for the Blades for £800,000, where he spent two seasons.

He had a stint at Crystal Palace, then finished his career playing for Wellington Phoenix in the A-League.

Ifill was a crucial part of the team that stormed to the Division Two title in 2001 and made the Division One play-offs the following season, the club’s only top-six finish in the second tier over the past 30 years.

The Lions are looking to emulate that feat this season, and are competing well despite battling another injury crisis.

Ifill, currently managing New Zealand Central League side Wellington Olympic, is keenly following from the other side of the world.

“It's the first result I look for,” Ifill told this paper. “People always ask, 'Oh, who do you support?'

“For me, it's hard not to support the club that gave you your first opportunity to play professionally.

As a sixteen-, seventeen-yearold, they scouted me, gave me my first taste of that, and I came up through the ranks.

“I didn't want to leave. The club had decided to sell me to Sheffield because they needed the money.

I'd have been happy to do a Keith

Stevens and stay there my whole career. I absolutely loved the place.

“From afar, it's really nice to see the club potentially on the brink of doing something really special.

I think Alex Neil's doing a really good job. It seems like there are a lot of good players at the club, a lot of good people.

“I'd love to be able to support from this side of the world. The likelihood is I'll come back at some point next year, and I'm certainly going to make sure that I get a day out down the Den.” Asked if he backs Neil to be the next successful Scottish head coach at The Den, Ifill said: “I hope so. Why not?”

Mazou-Sacko was the victim of a dubious challenge shortly after half-time and had to be replaced

by Daniel Kelly.

This paper understands that the exact timeline on how long Mazou-Sacko will be sidelined for is currently undetermined, with Millwall waiting for the results of a scan.

"It looks as if he's planted his knee," Neil said after the 3-1 loss to Pompey. "It was a bit of a naughty challenge in the middle of the pitch, which I thought their lad got away with, which was frustrating. It's not looking good at the moment, but I can't tell."

Sturge was withdrawn late in the first half after a ball thumped into his face from close range, and Neil clarified that it was due to concussion.

"I believe so," Neil said. "We used a concussion sub, hence the reason why we put so many players on. So we used an extra one.

"I believe that if he has got a concussion or he was unconscious at any point, then that's the only way we could use that. That's why I was saying I don't think it's a muscular injury by the looks of it."

Bryan was issued a straight red card for a late challenge in the second half, suspending him for three games.

Zak Sturge

THE RECYCLED PAPER CONTENT OF UK NEWSPAPERS IN 2014 WAS 83.5%