The South Londoner - June 2024

SOUTH LONDonER

June 2024 • Issue 30

South London summer festivals you won't want to miss Café Britaly - a taste of the Italian Riviera on Rye Lane

Top local picks for where to watch the Euros

baking up a storm

THE HERNE HILL DUO SERVING UP PALESTINIAN FLAVOURS

―

We’ve been producing independent, balanced and community-focused journalism in south London since 1987.

We moved into the old Biscuit Factory in Bermondsey in 1994, and have been there ever since.

We are proud to be a London Living Wage employer.

Our flagship publication, the Southwark News launched in 1987 and is now London’s only independent, paid for newspaper.

We also publish the South London Weekly and Greenwich and Lewisham Weekender every week, as well as the quarterly Bermondsey Biscuit and Rotherhithe Docker

We use 100% recovered paper from the Ortviken papermill in Sweden, a green energy provider who use biofuel instead of oil and provide heat for 10,000 single family homes.

www.southlondon.co.uk

Editor Eliza Frost

Design Lizzy Tweedale, Dan Martin, Ann Gravesen

Marketing Clarry Frewin, Katie Boyd.

Media Partnerships Anthony Phillips

Finance Emrah Zeki

Managing Directors Chris Mullany and Kevin Quinn

contact us

email hello@cm-media.co.uk

phone 020 7231 5258

twitter @insouthlndn instagram thesouthlondoner

website southlondon.co.uk

Printed by Ilif

Published by Community Matters Media Ltd fe Print

5 HOMe SeCRetaRy All of the south London festivals you won’t want to miss this summer

11-15 faMily Clapham ballet star on pursuing a dance career, plus mini golf and rooftop cinema

16-22 lOCal faCeS A south London author discusses how to 'live in colour', Rye Smile explains hyperlocal memeification and The Marcon Court Project talks sustainable fashion

24-31 fOOD & DRiNK Bunhead Bakery comes to Herne Hill, a review of Café Britaly, plus new openings in your ‘hood

36 a lOve letteR tO SOUtH lONDON The organisers behind Peckham Carboot share their favourite spots this side of the river

37 lOCally SOURCeD Make the perfect sandwich at home with Mondo Sando’s dressing

Ages 3+

home secretary: Festival Focus

Summer plans are busy filling up your diary, but we predict you’re going to want to save room for these fests

cUltUrE WEEkENd

London’s Burgess Park is playing host to a two-day Culture Weekend, a festival that gets hands-on and upclose to what makes our lives so rich, vibrant and playful.

The weekend is a celebration of arts, culture, heritage and legacy of the global south through food, drink, dance, music, language and art – creating space to express cultural identity. And Sunday will see a celebration of generations at the Windrush Festival event.

dates: Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June 2024 tickets: Saturday £23.46 and Sunday £12 –weekend tickets also available Burgess Park, SE5 0AL UK radiatefestival.com

BattErsEa park iN coNcErt

A long summer’s weekend of open-air picnic concerts is coming to Battersea Park this August bank holiday.

Enjoy Proms in the Park on the Saturday with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and hosted by special guest Myleene Klass – going out with a bang with a firework display finale.

Next in the schedule is A Night at the Movies with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra again for the Sunday. With All new songs and music for 2024, sing along to family favourites: Chicago, Rent, The Greatest Showman, Grease, Mary Poppins and more. Finish off the long weekend jamming to Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra, the big band direct from Soho’s legendary club, with Paul Simon’s Graceland and reimagined by the London African Gospel Choir.

dates: Saturday 24, Sunday 25 and Monday 26 August 2024

tickets: Adults £43.10, children £18.86, under 5s free – weekend and family tickets available Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ www.batterseaparkinconcert.com

Big smokE FEstival

A one-day festival with two stages of live music, the Big Smoke Festival is coming to Crystal Palace Park this July to bring you an ultimate line up of special guests.

There will be a live stage hosted by Más Tiempo, plus showstopper performances by Skepta, The Streets, Mahalia, plus loads more acts to light up your weekend.

date: Saturday 6 July 2024

tickets: From £72.80

Crystal Palace Bowl, Crystal Palace Park, SE19 2BA www.bigsmokefest.london

UptoWN FEstival

Following its inaugural show last summer, Uptown Festival is returning to Blackheath for a day of family festival fun.

Madness will be headlining for their only London show of 2024, plus The Zutons, Lightning Seeds and London Soul Choir.

The Little Town area of the festival will be back, too, and it will be bigger and better to keep the whole family entertained.

date: Sunday 28 July 2024

tickets: From £47.50 for adults, £27.50 for children and £15 for babies. Family ticket bundles are available Blackheath Common, Goffers Road, SE3 0UA london.uptownfestival.co.uk

lovE motioN

South Facing Festival – which hosts a series of music events in Crystal Palace Park each year – is hosting Love Motion, a brand new disco, soul and electronic all-dayer this July.

Pop culture babe Grace Jones will take to the Crystal Palace stage alongside a supportive line-up of talent – including Irish singer and dance-pop star Róisín Murphy and party-starters Horsemeat Disco.

date: Friday 26 July 2024

tickets: From £55.45

Crystal Palace Bowl, Crystal Palace Park, SE19 2BA southfacingfestival.com/event/love-motion

cloUd X

Each year, Cloud X Festival aims to curate an inclusive space for pioneering creatives telling their stories in bold and original ways. Championing soul, R&B and alternative sounds, the festival is an intimate affair, hoping to give you a soul-warming day out. Line-up highlights include Ghetts, Kamilla Rose, Bellah and Berwyn – plus lots more to keep you moving and grooving from day to night.

date: Friday 2 August 2024

tickets: From £39.27

Crystal Palace Bowl, Crystal Palace Park, SE19 2BA www.cloudxfestival.com

TAVARES STRACHAN

THERE IS LIGHT SOMEWHERE

18 JUN – 1 SEP

Under-30s and Lambeth residents: £8 tickets available Tuesday – Friday and after 5pm on Saturday.

summer at the southbank centre

This year’s summer season at the Southbank Centre, You BelongHere , from Saturday 29 June – Sunday 8 September, is a beacon of welcome for everyone, packed with vibrant and diverse performance, poetry, talks, art, music and family fun.

The season is inspired by the unsung explorers and cultural trailblazers celebrated in the Hayward Gallery exhibition Tavares Strachan: There Is Light Somewhere, and takes its name from one of Strachan’s textbased neon sculptures. The exhibition, from Tuesday 18 June –Sunday 1 September, is the first mid-career survey of the New York-based, Bahamian artist. Don’t forget, under-12s go free, and under-30s can get tickets for just £8 Tuesdays – Fridays and after 5pm on Saturdays.

Outside the gallery, discover spectacular free public art inside and outside the venues, each connected to the theme of the summer season and ready to welcome you to the site. Plus, don’t miss the return of everyone’s favourite interactive summer fountain - Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms.

On weekends, the outdoor Riverside Stage hosts free events with some of our city’s most exciting artists and collectives representing local and global communities, including AZEEMA, Counterpoints Arts, ESEA unseen, FLAWA, Just Vibez and SOUNDS LiKE CHAOS curating live music, performance, dance, fashion and more. Kicking things off is NAZAR on Saturday 29 June, a joyous party celebrating Pride in London featuring DJs from the SWANA and South Asian communities. JAZZ RE:FEST also returns to the Southbank Centre on Saturday 20 July. Come and join in as our artists and collectives create spaces for conversation, connection and community-building throughout the summer months.

Fantastic performances will entertain the whole family, from the joyous circus show Afrique en Cirque from Wednesday 24 – Sunday 28 July, spectacular new musical Frankie Goes to Bollywood from Wednesday 31 July – Sunday

A summer celebration

SAT 29 JUN – SUN 8 SEP

18 August, and the

on Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 July.

by creator

for

She left her house in Ukraine to find a new home in the Netherlands.

In the literature and talks programme, celebrate the 100th birthday of iconic writer James Baldwin with an entire day of conversations on Sunday 21 July. Plus, there will also be

thought-provoking events from celebrated writers David Olusoga, Kelechi Okafor, Sathnam Sanghera and more.

While you’re here, there’s a feast of food and drink pop-ups to enjoy, and why not also visit London’s very own secret garden on top of the Queen Elizabeth Hall to soak up the sunshine.

It’s set to be a summer to remember, celebrating what makes all of us belong at the one-of-akind Southbank Centre.

Find out more at www.southbankcentre.co.uk/ summer

enchanting show Home

little ones

This production is inspired

Anastasiia Liubchenko’s personal story.

Photo: India Roper-Evans

 Tavares Strachan, Inner Elder (Nina Simone as Queen of Sheba), 2023. Courtesy the artist. Photo by Jonty Wilde

 Afrique en Cirque. Photo by Peter Graham

 HOME. Photo by Hans Boddeke

it's coming home

The Euros kick off in Munich on 14 June: this is The South Londoner’s top picks for where to watch England matches in south London

Blues Kitchen

Normally known for live music, Brixton’s Blues Kitchen is taking a break from usual scheduling to squeeze in the upcoming England games, kicking off with England’s opening game against Serbia at 8pm on Monday 16 June.

If – and when – England succeeds in the group stages, all games up to the final will be streamed at the venue. Tickets are sold as tables at £5 per person, or £10 per person for the exclusive use of The Blues Kitchen’s private dining space, including the Karaoke Room.

Plus, you can order half-time snacks from the Southern-inspired kitchen, including buffalo chicken wings, Szechuan chicken wings, and crispy cauli bites.

40 Acre Lane, Brixton, SW2 5SP theblueskitchen.com/brixton

The Duke of Edinburgh

A summer of sport has been announced as open in Brixton’s The Duke of Edinburgh, showing all of the action: Euros, F1, Wimbledon, Cricket, Olympics and more.

With one of the biggest – and best – pub gardens in south London, as called by us here at The South Londoner, it’s a close-to-perfect spot to enjoy some live sport this summer surrounded by other fans. And you’ll be able to blend in if you’re just there for the beer… we won’t tell anyone.

204 Ferndale Road, SW9 8AG dukeofedinburghpub.com/summer-of-sport

Between the Bridges

Footy with a view of the river, is that or is that not a dreamy combination? Southbank’s Between the Bridges has three huge screens, so you won’t miss any of the action.

With tickets from £5, watch England in the group stages playing Serbia, Denmark and Slovenia this June. Plus, have the chance to tuck into food and drink from Between The Bridges vendors – take your pick of everything from oven-fresh pizzas and juicy burgers to chocolate-dipped churros and tangy tacos.

The Queen's Walk, SE1 www.betweenthebridges.co.uk/euros-2024

Peckham Levels

Catch the main games right in the main bar of Peckham Levels as the south east location gears up for a summer of footy.

Peckham Levels is screening the matches on five 65-inch TV screens dotted around the bar and food hall, with the sound and commentary through the PA system so you won’t miss any of the action.

Plus, they’re featuring DJs from different countries taking part in the Euros (Spain, Italy, Turkey, and more) on selected Friday and Saturday nights to really get the vibes going.

To secure the best seats in the house for groups, you can pre-book a drinks package and arrive to chilled jugs of beer, cocktails or carafes ready at your table for kick off.

95a Rye Lane, Peckham, SE15 4ST | peckhamlevels. org/events/euro-2024

The Coat and Badge

Heading south west now, Putney’s The Coat and Badge is welcoming the crowds as a hot spot for live sport. You can even book a private screening of any match with its football package… shout “ref” as loud as you want and enjoy sharing the beautiful game with your nearest and dearest.

8 Lacy Road, SW15 1NL www.thecoatandbadge.co.uk

 Between the Bridges ©Luke Dyson  Peckham levels ©Nick Crilly Hargrave

POWER OF THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES TO DRIVE COMMUNITY PROSPERITY

CIC is a not-for-profit creative volunteer platform supporting local charities and impact businesses better achieve their missions. These are our 2023 impact numbers - made possible by our incredible creative volunteers. USING THE

CREATIVE IMPACT CLUB 2023 NUMBERS

£152,000+

Family events

―

By Eliza Frost

Sushi masterclass for kids

It's never too early to learn some serious sushi skills – and sushi masters at Greenwich’s Sticks’n’Sushi bring their expertise to lessons for children aged 8-12.

Their kids’ classes are suitable for all ability levels, with clear and thorough teaching ensuring no one is left out and all can participate.

Your young ones will wrap up a whole menu, including one kappa hosomaki roll, a pink Alaska uramaki roll and two shake nigiri.

All children will get squash during the class and leave with a goody bag, including a certificate, their bandana, rolling mat, chopsticks, chocolate fish and a Japanese number and phrase sheet.

next date: 20 July 2024, 10am-11:30am tickets: £40

1 Nelson Road, Greenwich, SE10 9JB sticksnsushi.com/en/events/london

Mamma Mia!

A family favourite and a trip down the aisle, Rooftop Film Club presents Mamma Mia! (PG) at Peckham’s Bussey Building.

Arrive early to grab your wireless headphones and your seat, plus the opportunity to order a pizza as a family from Share A Slice.

Films are screened come rain or shine, and Rooftop Film Club provide blankets and ponchos during bad weather. But if you don't fancy facing the great British weather, you can transfer your tickets to another screening for free.

date: 22 June 2024, 12:30pm

tickets: Child lounge seat £5.95 (under 18s), adult lounge seat £12.95

Bussey Building, Copeland Park, 133 Copeland Road, Peckham, SE15 3SN

rooftopfilmclub.com/london/bussey-building/ film/907-mamma-mia

Horniman hole in one

Show off your putting skills on the mini golf course at Horniman Gardens with UrbanCrazy.

Take on nine holes themed around your favourite Horniman attractions – tee off from the Clocktower, putt past the Walrus and try for a birdie at the Butterfly House. Perfect for family fun, or for challenging competitive friends.

The course has wheelchair access and adapted putters for wheelchair users, as well as putters for the kids.

dates: Open weekends and bank holidays in term time and daily in school holidays, from 10:30am to 5pm (last admission 4.30pm)

tickets: Adult £7, child (under 16) £4.50, family (2 adults + 2 children) £17.50 100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk/event/golf

How to catch a star

Once there was a boy who was always looking up. He dreamed of having a star as a friend. This is the story of his adventure.

Based on the beloved book by award-winning Irish author Oliver Jeffers, Branar presents How to Catch a Star at Wimbledon’s Polka Theatre.

This adaptation directed by Marc Mac Lochlainn blends puppet design by Suse Reibisch, an original score by Colm Mac Con Iomaire, with Branar’s signature storytelling – creating a show that reminds us all to follow our dreams.

Recommended for children aged 3-5.

dates: Wednesday 3 July to Sunday 11

August 2024

tickets: From £10

Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com/event/how-to-catch-a-star

BYOB pub quiz

That’s Bring Your Own Baby pub quiz, hosted at Westow House Pub and Hotel. The quiz aims to be an opportunity for fun, brain-stimulating daytime parent socials, which take place all over London. Grab your parent friends and make a team of six. The quiz will take a slower pace than your traditional pub quiz, with two breaks to feed, change and chat – and questions repeated. With five quiz rounds, including general knowledge, music and connection, enjoy a few hours of pub fun with little ones in tow, too.

date: Thursday 18 July 2024, 12pm

tickets: From £11.37

Westow House Pub and Hotel, 79 Westow Hill, SE19 1TY

www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bring-your-baby-pubquiz-westow-house-crystal-palace-se19-southlondon-tickets-328021078877

Etta’s Kitchen

Etta

Burrell tells

The South

Londoner

about how she pours love into her food and the changes to Brixton, where she has lived from age nine

By Eliza Frost

Etta Burrell: I had a dream. I was bringing up three children on my own, lying in bed and something said to me: “Brixton belongs to you, so you need to go and get it.” So, I came down [to Brixton Village] and it was very empty. I thought I could never afford anything but found out they were giving the building away for three months, for nothing.

I was born in ’58, I always thought it was a lovely little space, but I couldn’t afford it. I only had £10 in my account, but I was sent here. I was very good at cooking, and people used to come to my house, and they never used to leave, and food would manifest itself; so I would feed many people, but I wouldn’t be able to tell where the food was coming from, but God has blessed me. After writing a business plan, then everything came to me. Tables came to me; anything I needed. I had a guy called Steven, and I still have that guy called Steven, and I used to manifest him in my head when I needed somebody, because it was me, God and my twin brother – my twin brother is no longer here with us, but he holds me up every time. This place is a miracle place.

How does food bring communities together?

It’s like feeding the soul. You attract what you give out,

and I try to give out honest, delicious food. People ask to see the menu, I don’t know how I do it sometimes, it just manifests itself and it's how I feel. It's like my soul is cooking for you, not just me.

What do you love about Brixton?

Brixton is the place where I grew up, all around here are different people; they come and they go, but it’s the warmth of Brixton that I love – sometimes I think we’re losing that. Things disappear, it’s like we don’t care about humans anymore. There are no community centres anymore for kids, there's nothing. So, we're fighting against each other to keep it alive. And we need to keep it alive. It's not always about the high rent, it’s not always about how we can't deal with certain things. It's about caring for what we put into life.

How have you seen the area change over time?

Our parents did a lot for us because we thought we were coming to a better place, not realising exactly what we

had when we were back home. Sometimes when we go home, we don't belong there and sometimes when we are here, we don't belong here either. We’re sitting on the fence. We're a lost tribe, so we need to really get our community together and realise.

Why is making people feel like they are coming to your house for dinner important to you?

Because when they come, they relax, and they sit down thinking this is their kitchen. We could have a conversation, they can tell me what they want and what they don't want in my food. I just like to please people; I like to talk to people. Sometimes, talking to people is like a little tablet. And if you don't ask you don't know. Sometimes you see ordinary people, but they’ve got problems, and sometimes people don't talk to each other anymore. We need to get all of that back.

We've got the phone that distracts us from a lot of stuff, it’s like we don’t care. You see people in the street, looking at their phones for direction, and there's no direction. You need to ask somebody, but we’ve stopped

communicating with each other. How do we get those things back? By paying attention to what's around us.

What life advice do you give, if people ask?

Live life like it’s the last minute. Love life. Live it. Because this is not a rehearsal. This is the real thing. It's now.

What is the inspiration for the flavours in your dishes?

It’s Caribbean inspired, but with a twist, because we’re not living in the Caribbean, but less is more. I have memories of what my mother used to do, and my dad, my sisters and my brothers used to do. Every one of us cooks. What I tend to do is gather a couple of flavours, I don’t measure anything, I just throw in my seasonings and taste as I go, and if I like it, you will like it (laughs). And I pour in loads of love; what I love, I’m sure someone else will love it.

85-86 Brixton Village, SW9 8PS www.ettaskitchen.com

The South Londoner: How did you come to open Etta’s Kitchen?

'taste as many wines as you like in two hours'

By Isabel Ramirez

Afestival in south London, where you can 'taste as many wines as you like' in two hours, will take place this summer.

Following a successful event last year, the South London Wine Fair will return to Crystal Palace Park on August 31.

The event brings together 20 exhibitors including

your place of work and job title to request access.

There will also be street food from the likes of fried chicken stall Chuckling Wings, as well as Greek gyros and souvlaki makers Smashing Plates.

Wine Fair is presented by Crystal Palace Wine Club, a new south London wine brand looking to remove the pretentiousness from enjoying good

winemakers and importers, who will showcase more than 100 wines on the Crystal Palace Park Bowl 'laptop' stage.

A ticket allows you to taste as many wines as you like - in an allotted time of just under two hours.

It also offers 50 per cent off your first drink at the all-day pop-up bar, which includes wines, draft beers and cocktails.

In the morning, there will be a free entry session for local drinks or food trade running 10am-12pm. Anyone interested should email the Fair with

wine - their slogan is wine without the bullsh*t.

As well as operating their popular wine bar on Anerley Hill where they hold weekly tastings, they also run an events business, an online store, and a wholesale distribution company.

Tickets are now on sale at £40 for the Fair, with an allotted time of 1 hour 50 minutes.

The event runs from 12pm - 8pm. Please check the time on your ticket.

www.southlondonwinefair.co.uk/

clapham dancer is en pointe

By Eliza Frost

Ella Ronte has been dancing since she was three, training at SE1’s Central School of Ballet, and recently touring with the graduating class of 2024.

Working towards the Ballet Central show “has been amazing”, says Ella. “The programme is very contrasting and different. Each piece has its own qualities, so being able to work on four different styles has been fantastic and helped me to grow as a dancer.”

She adds: “Working with different choreographers on these pieces has been exciting and helped me understand the professional landscape of being a dancer.”

Ella has had support from her family to pursue professional dance and has “always had a very supportive teacher (Lucy Clay, Fancy Footwork) who had such a love for dance, so seeing that passion from her encouraged me and made me enjoy dance even more”.

She originally thought about doing ballet, as she loves the challenge of it and “the codified movement”.

“I strive for the technicality of ballet and this perfection, and I pursue this because I love a challenge,” she explains.

“More recently, I feel that I have more space to be an artist and develop artistry through contemporary dance. I feel that where I am currently in my career ambitions, I’m seeking a career more in this contemporary world of dance.

After graduating, Ella is going to study Dance Performance and Professional Practices at the University of Salford, and also join Emergence, the postgraduate touring company, in Manchester – “very far away from where I grew up in Clapham”.

She says: “I’m looking forward to developing my movement language and working with a range of new choreographers.”

But what is Ella’s dream show? “That is such a hard question, and I don’t really have an answer although I’ve thought about it many times,” she explains.

“I’d love to perform a Jiří Kylián work, who choreographed performances such as Gods and Dogs and 27’52”.”

If any young people are thinking of pursuing a dance career, Ella says to “go for it”.

“Central introduced me to this and it has been wonderful to explore more contemporary through the Ballet Central tour.”

She adds: “If it makes you happy, you work hard at it and it’s what you love doing, then there will be a place for you somewhere. Keep finding enjoyment and presenting yourself to the dance community in a positive light.

“I was very focused on the next thing when I started at Central, but I’ve learned to focus on where I’m at and what I’m doing, and to trust that the things that are meant for me will find me.”

Ballet Central’s final show will be at the Britten Theatre, SW7 2BS, on 17 and 18 July 2024

www.balletcentral.co.uk

Judy andrews ―

The

south London author of Wonder Journey Joy explains

why ‘living in full colour’ can bring confidence to your life

By Eliza Frost

“This book is just the beginning. I want to turn it into so much more, starting with local confidence workshops inspired by my book. I want to help people live their best life, to live in full colour,” says Judy Andrews.

Judy’s new book, Wonder Journey Joy, is a guide to “help you live an intentional life, emphasising how understanding yourself and your goals boosts your confidence”, she explains.

The “Wonder” represents your dreams and hopes, the “Journey” details the necessary work and growth, and the “joy” is the reward of your dedication and work of self.

The book is interactive with exercises in each section designed to help you reflect and “get the answers you need”, says Judy. “There are also tips around how to navigate self-doubt and grow belief and trust in yourself.”

Judy’s pivotal moment was when she became a mother in 2015: “My priorities changed, and I found the rigour of returning to a full-time job hit me harder than expected. My confidence dipped to an all-time low.

“For a year, I juggled, struggled and strived for harmony. And then, it hit me. If the job doesn't fit, you don't squeeze into it – you create one that does.”

After working for over two decades in graphic design, with expertise in brand design and retail, she founded Tickety Boo Creative, founded on the ideals of joy and flexibility.

She says: “It didn’t happen overnight, I found solace and hope from little notes of positivity. I turned these notes into bold, vibrant, confident typographic art. Each artwork is a step away from doubt towards a life designed with intention. Now I want to help others see their extraordinary potential and know that anything is possible.”

Wonder Journey Joy is a self-published title and, after talking with other mums, Judy was inspired to help redefine what success looks like in motherhood.

She explains: “Although not initially a big reader, I found my love for non-fiction at 40, which opened new ways of thinking and inspired me profoundly. However, I realise not everyone has the time or wants to read. This realisation came as I began to see the value of living more intentionally. I've always wanted to write and design a book, so it felt like the perfect time.”

Writing and publishing the book has been a sixmonth “personal journey” and a “lifetime of experience”. “I had moments of high confidence, thinking ‘This

is going to be so good’. But then doubt would creep in, asking myself, ‘Who am I to be writing this?’” says Judy. “Confronting and overcoming these doubts has strengthened the book. The best part was seeing it in print – holding the final book was simply magical.”

In advice for other aspiring authors who may be thinking about self-publishing, Judy says go for it:

“Start with a good idea. Focus on your message and how you want your audience to feel. Use Post-it notes and index cards for planning. A contents page can guide your structure.

“Most importantly, practice and share your writing – social media and blogs are great platforms; LinkedIn and Substack work well for me.”

In Wonder Journey Joy, you will find a different way

of looking at your life, with inspiring quotes, ideas of how to connect with yourself, questions that will help you understand yourself, giving clarity and confidence – and it is “all brought to life with my vivid and optimistic art”, explains Judy.

Inspiring confidence in others comes from confidence within, so how does Judy hone that feeling? “I find joy in the every day, magic in the mundane, appreciating and savouring magic moments,” she explains. “The challenges I face, I turn to my journal and write it out. I write to think. I also ask for help or advice when I need it.”

Judy says she also finds inspiration everywhere by just paying attention: “Looking up at the sky, enjoying nature walks and spending time with friends and

“i want to help others see their extraordinary potential and know that anything is possible”

family. As a collector of quotes and magazine clippings, these items spark inspiration when I need it. Taking time and pausing for reflection, it all comes together in my journal.”

Wonder Journey Joy (£20) is available to buy online: www.judyandrews.co.uk

©Rosie Parsons

Funky monkey keyboard classes

Electronic keyboard music Workshops

29th July-2nd

august, 27-30th august 2024

clapham, herne hill, streatham

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes’ halfday or five-morning workshops are a perfect opportunity for beginners to try the electronic keyboard and make music the fun way! We teach small groups how to read & write music with all equipment provided & fun art sessions thrown in for variety. With expert teachers and using our unique scheme, it's a wonderful, relaxed introduction to practical and theoretical music

Five-morning workshops, 5-8 yrs, 10am-12.30pm £140/£130

Half day workshops, 4-8 yrs,10am-1.30pm, £40/£35

See website for venues, dates & to book

www.funkymonkey.info

01732 457100

mail@funkymonkey.info

ChooSE27 is a Digital Town Hub which helps local organisations and businesses to communicate with residents and visitors. Digital Town Hubs are owned and managed by local people. They provide a community-powered alternative to social media, delivery and large ecommerce platforms.

COME JOIN US 1PM - 5PM, Thursday 27th June 2024 VENUE Southwark College 25 The Cut, London SE1 8LF

If you’re interested in getting involved, please contact us at info@elephantandcastletowncentre.co.uk elephantandcastletowncentre.co.uk

The Elephant and Castle Town Centre team, working in conjunction with Southwark College and the Mayor of Southwark, Cllr Naima Ali, are delighted to announce the 2024 Careers Fair will be taking place on Thursday 27th June, from 1pm – 5pm. Building on the success of last year’s event, the 2024 Careers Fair will be a fantastic opportunity for young people in Southwark to learn about opportunities from employers and education providers from across a variety of sectors.

the marcon court project

Sustainable dressmaker Laura Casas on making clothes to cherish, south London’s fashionable streets and why she loves this side of the river

By Eliza Frost

“South London has a sense of being ahead of the times with fashion,” says Laura Casas, founder of The Marcon Court Project.

Working at charity shop Traid in Peckham years ago, Laura saw people come in buying Y2K clothing, “and now it’s everywhere”, she explains. “I feel like people are really individualistic and forward, and that inspires me a lot, even just walking down the street and looking at people.”

She says: “The way that people put things together, it seems like it won’t work. But they wear things because they like the two pieces together. It’s so individual – and that is what has inspired me the most, to be more free with what I do and mix patterns.”

Laura creates clothing with a sustainable focus, with every piece made to order, and a small selection of readyto-buy items. This means waste is very low, which is the aim of The Marcon Court Project.

She learned her skills in Spain, where she grew up, and then during an apprenticeship on Saville Row. “I wanted to learn how to make clothes properly,” she says.

Working part-time at Traid as a stylist is where Laura “learned a lot about sustainability and reworking clothing”. She would buy clothes to take them apart and put them back together again, just to see how it was done – and once bought 20 blazers to upcycle.

Laura found joy in the process of reworking those pieces, and her fashion work evolved from there. Emanating that joy in the pieces she makes now is still paramount.

She says: “I get a lot of inspiration from pictures from the '80s, when we were kids and you’d wear a flowery dress, and all the details on it. I try to mimic that now. I find that astounding joy in dressing.

“After having a child and getting older, I always dress for myself. I want people to just dress for themselves, not thinking of the male gaze, or is this flattering? Just to see something and ask how does it make me feel? I think that is brilliant. If I can just put a smile on their face when they wear something I’ve made, that's what I like to do.”

Although Laura’s customers do wear her dresses to weddings and for occasions, they were made to bring joy to the everyday, to wear to work or go for dinner with friends.

Sometimes Laura’s fabrics arrive from “magic moments” on eBay on a Tuesday morning… She explains how there is one fabric that customers still send to her asking for the print, years later.

“But I don’t have it and every time I try to get that fabric, it has gone out to prices that are really not

sustainable to make something affordable. So that is the one fabric that I still have an alarm on for.”

Using end-of-roll fabrics with interesting patterns is what makes The Marcon Court Project stand out.

Laura says: “I try to find people working with cotton in the UK and so I buy local. My guiding purpose for everything is sustainability, have [the fabrics] been made in a sustainable way?”

Laura used to live in Peckham, and now in Crystal Palace, her parents are from Africa but lived in Spain, she says: “I never really had a big community of people of colour my whole life.

“So, one of the things that I like most about living in south London is having access to so much African culture, walking down the streets and seeing the clothing, and even the way people address each other is something that I never really got to experience. I got called auntie and I’m like oh my God.

“Living in south London gave me a sense of belonging that I never knew existed. So that's really my favourite thing.”

www.themarconcourtproject.co.uk

You are invited to birthday celebrations!

A free summer party for families with children under 5

Music, food, dance, party games, sports and face painting

When: Saturday 29 June

Time: 10am – 2pm

Where: Myatts Field North Centre, 24 Crawshay Road, London, SW9 6FZ

When: Saturday 13 July

Time: 10am – 2pm

Where: St Martins Community Centre, Abbots Park, London, SW2 3QB

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hyper-local memeification

Rye Smile is an anonymous Instagram page poking fun at Peckham and south east spots

– The South Londoner goes behind the memes

By Eliza Frost

“I love people watching and secretly eavesdropping on people’s conversations and finding the absurdity in it all, I’m very happy having a drink on my own in a beer garden and just watching people interact,” says the anonymous person behind the Instagram page Rye Smile (@_rye_smile).

There has been a rise in these types of pages, social profiles poking fun at different areas, building the archetypal person. But why? And where do these stereotypes come from?

“Rye Smile brings a comedic touch to the south east London community,” they explain. It started in July 2023, when freelance work as a photographer for the person behind the profile was quiet.

They add: “I saw a window for a south east-based hyper-local meme page and I was really surprised that nothing existed at the time, given the popularity of pages like @real_housewives_of_clapton, @poundlandbandit and @northwest_mcm_wholesale et al – all of which are insanely more original and talented than my own, I should add.”

So they slowly started to make “some very questionable, sub-par memes”, and have since developed the page and honed in on the angle. Posts include a recent collaboration with Peckham favourite Forza Wine, plus observational trends that they pick up from friends.

Rye Smile says: “There was a lot of talk about how many people were wearing White New Balance trainers outside the Nags Head last month, a few people thought that meme was a little unrealistic, but people have commented since about how many people they’ve spotted wearing that particular style.”

But why are people so invested in hyper-local memes? “I think it’s because, deep down, we all just want to feel seen. Even if that mirror reflects the more ridiculous aspects of our lives,” says Rye Smile.

“With the birth of social media and an increase in usage, it’s really easy to lose a sense of identification, so ironically by being able to relate to the characters in my memes, we feel like our traits and characteristics are being justified.

“On a simpler level, though, it’s also just funny to take the mick out of people and our friends and generally not take life too seriously.”

And is there a stereotypical “Peckham person”? Rye Smile isn’t sure: “The amount of diversity in the

area, from the Caribbean OGs to the Goldsmiths hipsters and young mums, there really are so many different demographics. What I would say, though, is that there are people open to community, culture, art and fun times.

“It’s important to share cultures and observe people with very different lifestyles to that of your own and they are characteristics that a lot of my people in Peckham possess.”

They’ve got a hot list of spots they want to visit soon, and they say: “I’m quite excited to try The Watergate in Deptford because, as much as I love a pint in an old school boozer, a wanky natural wine bar with a bowl of olives in the sunshine will always have my heart.”

Despite being a stickler for going back to old favourites, too – like the Nags Head and Forza Wine, Theo’s, Dash the Henge Store, The Bear in Camberwell, Eat Vietnam or Lil Nan’s Bar in Deptford.

And Rye Smile really loves the Nags Head: “It’s a melting pot of different cultures and age ranges and the price of the drinks is impossible to beat. James is a great landlord, and the bar staff always

keep things fun and friendly.

“Plus, I’ve made some great new friendships through having a ‘local’; it feels a bit eccentric to say out loud but I genuinely believe that the Nags is one of the last of its kind, a proper community pub for locals where everybody looks out for each other.”

Rye Smile has always been a big fan of comedy and believes the most successful comedies come from “write what you know”.

They say: “I could be queueing up for Toad Bakery on a Saturday morning for 15 minutes thinking ‘I’m an absolutely ridiculous person’ or I could be walking past the Pyrotechnic pub in Nunhead on Thursday and see the builders on the pints at 2pm and it just gives you little ideas.

“I love the culture clash of south east London where it’s on its way to gentrification but it’s not quite there yet, so you get the students and builders, yuppies and oldies, all eating in the same cafes or sharing tables side by side in the pubs.”

@_rye_smile on Instagram

Bunhead Bakery

Bringing Palestinian flavours to their first bricksand-mortar spot in Herne Hill, The South Londoner hears from the duo behind the buns on what to expect

By Eliza Frost

“The last four years have been such a special way to connect with my culture in my own way,” says Bunhead Bakery founder Sara Assad-Mannings.

Located in Herne Hill, Bunhead Bakery offers its signature buns, plus bread, sweets and coffee. But, over time, Sara wants to “share more Palestinian desserts”, too. Along with best friend and now co-founder of the physical shop, Georgia Wickremeratne, the pair opened Bunhead Bakery as a soft launch in May.

But it was 2020 when Sara started baking: “I was living at home with my dad and started baking buns. At first, I delivered them to my sister. She was the one who said that I should start selling them.”

After a busy lockdown of starting Bunhead, there were peaks and troughs, so Sara started working again – at youth hostels and then with rough sleepers – but decided to take Bunhead full time in October 2021.

Baking from her one-bed flat, she knew it was time to open up shop – and that is when Georgia came on board.

Georgia explains: “We’ve been friends for over a decade now, meeting on our first day of uni.”

The pair became best friends after “we went on a night out in Leeds and Sound of da Police [by KRSOne] came on. Sara was the only other person that knew and loved it”, says Georgia.

After working in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at a start-up, Georgia was in between jobs and started working at the coffee shop Paper Stories in Gipsy Hill. “It was a cute coffee shop, and I was loving it. I loved making coffee and just chatting to people in a way that I never even expected,” she says.

And shortly after, she started working on opening Bunhead Bakery with Sara. Working as best friends has “deepened our connection”, they say. “There’s nowhere to hide.”

Sara says they “have a sister-like relationship”, and Georgia adds that there is a “level of trust that has grown, and it will continue to grow and deepen now”. Sara explains that, “for me, food has always been my

deepest expression of love, if people come to my house, I always want to cook for them.” “She literally kept me alive by feeding me [at uni]. I was living on porridge,” adds Georgia.

“Bunhead has also deepened my connection to my own culture,” says Sara. “To be clear, buns are not a traditionally Palestinian food, but the flavours I use are. But that connection has intensified and accelerated in the last six months.

“Sharing culture through food is safe. It is a way for people to feel interconnected and get to know a culture without feeling intimidated or stupid, they are feelings that can come up when you’re trying to learn about the world. Food is a gateway into other conversations.”

In a time of uncertainty, Sara says it is “more important now than ever to be really loud on identity”.

“The stakes are low when you're talking about a bun with Palestinian flavours, and the conversation can then carry on,” agrees Georgia.

Growing up in south London, the area inspired Bunhead “very organically”. The influence of south London is “about the energy of the business”, says Sara. “The character of Bunhead, it is parts of me, but it is not

me, but the character and energy of the business are very south London, so people here feel connected to that.”

After finding the bakery location in Herne Hill, it was a bit of a renovation project for the pair before opening, but – when we spoke two weeks prior to the soft launch – they were “surprisingly calm”.

“On Sunday I was a bit like, ‘Oh, this is real,’” says Georgia. “Then seeing this big fridge coming in. I said we’ll have to go for a walk because I'm full of nervous energy.” Luckily, Brockwell Park is over the road.

With a breakfast bench for a quick bite, but mainly a grab-and-go spot to stop, Bunhead Bakery has already seen queues around the block.

Looking ahead, “the big, dream goal” for Sara is to be able to share Palestinian dessert knafeh in the shop – it’s cheesy, pastry and syrupy. “I feel like ever since I was born, a knafeh was my favourite dessert ever. Anyone who eats it loves it. It is the most Palestinian desert you could ever have. The goal is to be able to serve that on weekends, for people to enjoy eating lovely syrupiness.”

Asked if there was anything left to add: “Free Palestine.” www.bunheadbakery.com

©Safia Shakarchi @dearsafia

The 2024 General Election is here!

The UK Parliamentary General Election takes place on Thursday 4 July 2024. Register to vote by midnight, Tuesday 18 June.

Go to gov.uk/register-to-vote.

Apply for a postal vote by 5pm, Wednesday 19 June. Go to gov.uk/apply-postal-vote

WilsoN’s

A neighbourhood wine bar and restaurant has popped up in Lewisham by chef Henry Freestone and Alina and Joel Falconer, founders of Oscar's in Ladywell.

It’s a spot for wine and big-plate lovers, you’re going to want to get a date in ASAP.

The food menu changes every week, but expect tantalising flavour combinations – like cannellini beans, spinach and gorgonzola, or brown crab rarebit – to enjoy alongside a glass from their extensive wine menu. Sip on a complex white, a bright sparkling, a structured red or a pink, orange or no and low alcohol.

77 Ladywell Road, SE13 7JA www.wilsonslondon.co.uk

Bitesize

By Eliza Frost

Classic bagels with interesting fillings is what Rye Lane Bagels says of itself. But it is oh so more than that in the eyes of The South Londoner.

The “for locals, by locals” neighbourhood shop serves up oozing bagels – your classic cream cheese and smoked salmon, or go sweet with peanut butter and banana, or try one of Abhi’s creations, like butter chicken or prawn mayo.

Prepare for a queue, but prepare for it to be worth the wait. Plus it’s open until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays, bagel after the club anyone?

100 Rye Lane, SE15 4RZ ryelanebagels.com

WiNgstop

It’s time to get saucy – setting up shop in 1994 in the US, with a small buffalo-style chicken wing restaurant in Garland, Texas, Wingstop has now come to Clapham.

Wingstop is not just in the wing business, but the flavour business. You can choose from 10 flavours, varying in heat. From Hawaiian and garlic parmesan to hickory smoke BBQ and mango habanero. Wings just reached another height.

169 Clapham High Street, SW4 7SS www.wingstop.co.uk

tWo drops

Pint and a cheese toastie, anyone? Two Drops at Battersea Power Station serves “the things we like to eat with a drink, centred around moreish cheese toasties” – like music to ears.

It’s walk-in only and encourages a neighbourhood bar feel, as visitors can expand out onto the riverside terrace, sharing stories, sharing sips and sharing snacks.

It has a “considered” wine list, three “preferred” pints on tap of Guinness, Estrella Galicia and a revolving IPA.

Toastie combinations include marmite and shallot, smoked haddock and English mustard, and salt beef, pickled gherkin and horseradish. Now who’s for a cheese pull competition?

Circus Road West, Battersea Power Station, SW11 8EZ

thedropbar.co.uk/two-drops

Bird hoUsE BrEWEry

The team behind leading neighbourhood venues The Hawk’s Nest and Peckham Arches has welcomed their latest venue, Bird House Brewery in Herne Hill. The neighbourhood brewery, taproom and cocktail bar is located underneath a railway arch on Bath Factory Estate. Sitting opposite Brockwell Park, and with cold brews on tap, it is set to be a great place to cool off as London heats up.

Brewing a house lager and pale ale, the two will be a focus point of the drinks menu and will be distributed and served at all Bird House London’s venues, too. We’ll have a half pint, please.

Arch 1127, Bath Factory Estate, 41 Norwood Road, Herne Hill, SE24 9AJ https://birdhousebrewing.com

 Bird House Brewery

ryE laNE BagEls

 Wilsons

trinity academy: a Beacon of comprehensive Education

Trinity Academy stands as a paragon of holistic education, boasting a knowledge-rich curriculum that goes beyond traditional academics to encompass a diverse range of enrichment programs. As a proud member of the Future Academies Trust, Trinity Academy benefits from a network of schools committed to educational excellence and innovation. This approach ensures that students not only excel in their studies but also develop a well-rounded character and a broad set of skills.

At the heart of Trinity Academy’s educational philosophy is its rigorous and engaging curriculum. Designed to challenge and inspire, the curriculum spans the full spectrum of academic disciplines, ensuring that students gain a deep understanding of core subjects. Th is strong academic foundation is complemented by an emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, preparing students for the complexities of the modern world.

Beyond the classroom, Trinity Academy offers an exceptional enrichment program that includes a variety of activities both within the

UK and abroad. These experiences are integral to the academy’s mission of fostering global awareness and cultural sensitivity. Students have the opportunity to participate in international trips, providing them

with fi rsthand exposure to different cultures and global issues. Such experiences not only broaden their horizons but also instil a sense of responsibility and citizenship.

The academy’s commitment to enrichment is also evident in its robust sports, arts, and cultural activities. The sports program encourages physical fitness and teamwork, offering a range of options from traditional team sports to individual athletic pursuits. In the arts, students can explore their creative talents through music, drama, and visual arts, supported by excellent facilities and dedicated staff. Cultural activities further enhance the student experience, with events and clubs that celebrate diversity and promote inclusion.

Trinity Academy’s holistic approach to education ensures that every student can discover and develop their unique talents and interests. By combining a strong academic curriculum with extensive enrichment opportunities, the academy prepares its students to become well-rounded, knowledgeable, and culturally aware individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world.

56 Brixton Hill, SW2 1QS www.trinity.futureacademies.org

Valid from 8th July 7 weeks: £180 4 weeks: £120

Includes two adults and all children living in one household

Interior Design Offer

Helping families who are frustrated with the look, feel and flow of their house, to create a beautiful, yet practical home, without all the overwhelm.

I will help you avoid wasting time and making expensive mistakes to create that calming space that you’re proud to show off.

The Package

1. Project kick off call

2. Initial design moodboard

3. Rendered layout

4. Concept showing key Items

5. Clickable shopping list

6. Access to me via WhatsApp

The Cost

The price for this would usually be £599 per room, but because I’m l this is a new service, I’m offering all this for just £419 per room until 28th June 2024 in return for your feedback.

To take advantage of this offer please email me below and check out my website for more information

studio@dalodudesign.co.uk www.dalodudesign.co.uk

Review: Café BRitaly

Fun fusion and a lighthearted approach to food to be found at this Peckham spot

By Eliza Frost

If you're fussy about fusion or are precious about pairings, best to look away now. Café Britaly’s “authentically Britalian” dishes could cause a stir.

“Serving carbonara with cream since 2024,” the Rye Lane location is a celebration of Britain’s love affair with Italian food, but with some twists and turns. And The South Londoner was there to try it out.

As we settled into our booth seats, the restaurant was abuzz with eager customers wanting to explore the flavours of this new spot.

To match the sunny weather, a refreshing tipple was needed to celebrate the start of summer. We went with a recommendation, the Cornish sundowner, made with limoncello and topped with prosecco (£9.50). It spritzed and bubbled in the best way.

Deciding what to eat proved more difficult. I was a fan of the elevated Britalian dishes, I have to admit from the off. A deep-fried pizza inspired by Scotland’s chip shops finished with salt and vinegar? The answer was yes please.

Bouncy pizza dough, topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella and basil, covered in a crunchy batter; the pizzetta crunch (£6.50) was a could-be confusing mouthful, but, honestly, maybe more things should be deep fried if they’re going to taste this good.

Alongside this was burrata with heirloom tomatoes, oil and balsamic vinegar (£12). Creamy cheese versus the sting of vinegar is a tried and tested, foolproof, go-to flavour combination, and Café Britaly didn’t disappoint.

To accompany the mains, we moved to a blush pink wine. The cool Alpha Zeta Corvina Merlot from Veneto (£6) fit the weather of the day –Peckham was blessed with a sultry early May 22 degrees, which is a temperature that always calls for a rosé.

Now, does cream belong in a carbonara?

Oftentimes before, I would say it’s possible sacrilege. But I was open to being proven wrong. It was time for the most “controversial” dish on the menu, the Britalian carbonara was made up of deliciously al dente spaghetti, guanciale, and cream and topped with a runny yolk, crispy bottom, fried egg (£13.50).

The thing about being converted to something, is you have to be open. I may not start adding a splash of the heavy stuff when cooking at home, but I couldn’t say Café Britaly’s take on a carbonara wasn’t tasty, and I couldn’t say it wasn’t fun.

Carrying on the fun, it was time for an old-school favourite, a fish finger sandwich. Moving away from

the freezer drawer, Café Britaly’s fish finger sandwich (£11.50) featured salted coley, tartare sauce, red sauce and rocket, served with chips on the side. Perfect for wiping up the overflowing sauces. The staple was truly elevated.

One of my favourite Italian dishes is arancini, deep-fried rice (see previous comment asking why more things aren’t deep-fried) with normally savouring fillings. But when I saw rice pudding arancini (£6.50) on the menu, I knew we had to end the meal with something sweet.

On a bed of stewed rhubarb and orange, the rice pudding arancini was creamy and sweet, sat against the sharpness of the stew. It was my favourite dish of the evening. A must-try when you venture to Café Britaly, and genius from co-owners Richard Crampton-Platt and chef Alex Purdie.

To finish, the lovely person serving us brought over a bottle of limoncello, made by Silco in St Ives (£5), which was also used in our zesty cocktails at the start of the meal, and poured two shots as she explained its notes.

A silky smooth citrus burst – and a delectable way to finish off our fusion meal, with the taste of the Italian riviera on Rye Lane.

191 Rye Lane, SE15 4TP cafebritaly.com

* Yoga

Yoga,

hive nursery to open at stave hill

We're very excited to announce that on monday 2nd september 2024, the hive is opening a small Forest school Nursery at stave hill Ecology park, sE16

We've delivered our accredited Forest School training courses at Stave Hill since 2018 and it's such a beautiful, ecologically rich space for children to play, create and learn, that we are very grateful to have been given the go ahead by the Stave Hill team to open a small Forest School nursery in the ecology park.

We know from our long-standing

holiday clubs how much children benefit from Forest School. Because it is child-led and immersive, and because it takes place in nature, it’s an incredibly powerful way of learning. It gently nurtures children’s curiosity, creativity and resilience, helping them grow in confidence.

There are currently no Forest School nurseries in this part of

London, so we’re very much looking forward to opening the first one for this lovely community.

From September 2024, our nursery will welcome up to 12 children between the ages of 2 and 5 on Mondays and Tuesdays.

It will be open between 9am and 3.30pm, 45 weeks per year.

Our Forest School nursery is

registered with Ofsted and our curriculum meets all the requirements of the EYFS statutory framework.

The nursery is also registered with the Forest School Association and our team have both childcare and Forest School qualifications, as well as Paediatric First Aid, Outdoor First Aid, Safeguarding Level 3 and Food Hygiene. We’re

members of the Early Years Alliance and embrace their vision of a society where every child has the opportunity to learn through play.

To find out more and/or book a visit, please feel free to explore our website (www.thehive-kids.com) or you can contact us by phone (020 3435 6848) or email (nursery@thehive-kids.com).

inside & out

Our lovely outside terraces are popular in the summer months and perfect for meeting up with friends and family for drinks and/or food. Located short walks away from Bermondsey Street, London Bridge and Tower Bridge.

Indulge in the taste of Italy with each bite, crafted from the freshest ingredients sourced locally and imported from the heart of Italy. Let our warm and welcoming staff treat you like family, ensuring every dining experience is filled with authentic flavours and genuine smiles. Plus enjoy our fully enclosed terrace, the perfect spot to savour the meal and soak in the delightful atmosphere. Amisha Court, 161 Grange Rd, London SE1 3GH 020 7231 7151

Leonardo Mastrofilippo (owner Head Chef) and Messinas Francesco (owner Restaurant manager)

a love letter to south london

As told to Eliza Frost

Founders of Peckham Carboot, Erin Murphy and Steven Lopes, tell The South Londoner about the best curry this side of the river, hunting for vintage goods and why a carboot is best

What inspired you to start Peckham Carboot?

Erin has always loved carboot sales and would attend carboot sales every Sunday when she was younger in her hometown. She even toyed with the idea of having one in Streatham over 10 years ago when she first moved to London, but it wasn’t the right time. Steven used to go charity shopping around affluent areas of London to pick up some bargains, as well as local markets such as East Street Market and Nine Elms. It was just a passion for finding things and us thinking if we had our own, we could shop before everyone else – that turned into a business. There was a gap in the market in terms of south east London and Erin lived in Peckham at the time so we decided to go for it.

What do you love most about running Peckham Carboot?

The people and the characters, we have an array of people at the market, young “trendy” people who are very fashion-forward, etc, but we also have many oldschool locals who are Peckham through and through. To be able to offer a platform for everyone to be able to make some extra money on the side every fortnight makes us happy. And, of course, being able to have a rummage and find some gems every other week is what it’s all about.

What does a typical week in south London involve for you?

We also run a flea market called The Bottle Factory Flea and Crystal Palace Flea, so most of the time we are running around south London sorting out venues,

running errands and writing emails. We're always scoping out new venues for our markets.

Erin has a vintage womenswear shop on Brick Lane called Attagirl, which is all-encompassing, so could involve being at the shop curating it all or could be overseas obtaining new stock.

Steven is usually training people in south London at his day-to-day job as a personal trainer, and sourcing clothing and watches online in his free time. Friday and Saturday evenings, we’re usually at a pub or bar somewhere south.

What are your favourite south London eateries?

The Gowlett Arms for pints, pizza and the best crisp selection south. Skehans, a great pub and great Thai food. Taquiza for Mexican, Camberwell Arms or The Mayflower in Rotherhithe for a roast, Yemanes food truck always and forever for a delicious quick wrap, and Falafel and Shawarma in Camberwell do great wraps, too. For coffee, Four Boroughs on the Crystal Palace triangle as we live around the corner. Oh, and Babur in Forest Hill for a curry.

Where do you shop for clothes and homeware in south London?

Peckham Carboot and other carboot fairs in and around London. We regularly drive to different areas in south to have a look around the charity shops. We live in Crystal Palace so Crystal Palace Antiques for vintage homeware and, of course, the Crystal Palace Flea market.

And your favourite south London landmark?

Crystal Palace Park – the stage, the sphinx, the TV tower and our favourite is the national sports centre due to its brutalist look and vast size, we’re local so we use the gym there and it’s amazing. We love the lake and the old dinosaurs, which look nothing like they should. Also, Brown and Green Café in the park has the best veggie sausage baps in south London.

What’s the one place, thing or activity south of the river that everyone should try at least once?

We would have said Elephant and Castle bowling before the shopping centre closed down, although Lewisham Lanes is a good substitute. Tooting Bec Lido and Beckenham Place Park for its open water swimming pond in the summer is always a good shout. I think what we love about south London, in particular, are the parks and the green spaces.

www.peckhamcarboot.com

LOCALLY SOURCED

mondo sando’s hoagie oil dressing

Are you on the lookout for ways to elevate your lunches at home? Want to create a sarnie with the perfect sub-section?

Well, Mondo Sando’s secret formulation Hoagie Oil Dressing could be the answer. From the makers of elevated sandos, serving out of Camberwell’s Grove House Tavern, is this Italian American staple dressing – ideal for saucing your sarnies.

“Dress your lettuce! See God for free!” say Mondo Sando of their dressing, which is available to buy on online store DELLI.

Price: £6.99

delli.market/products/hoagie-oil-dressing

Follow @mondo.sandwiches on Instagram

Applications are now open for people over the age of 70 who are reasonably active and mobile and able to live independently but in need of companionship, support and healthy home-cooked food in a friendly community.

• Independent living within a secure setting

• Six comfortable 2-room flats and one studio flat, all with en-suite facilities

• Affordable, all-inclusive fees

• Pleasant communal dining area with large well-tended garden

• Optional programme of activities and events

• Strong links to the local community

clay kiln craft

Did you know?

If you don’t pay for your prescriptions, you can get SOME medicines free from your local pharmacy without needing to visit your GP

Southwark Pharmacy First Plus covers advice and treatment for the conditions below: What treatments are available on the scheme?

• Allergies

• Athlete’s foot

• Blocked/ runny nose

• Cold and flu

• Cold sores

• Conjunctivitis

• Constipation

• Coughs and colds

• Diarrhoea

• Dry/sore eyes

• Earwax

• Fever

• Hay fever

• Headache

• Head lice

• Indigestion

• Insect bites and stings

• Itching due to chickenpox

• Minor burns and scalds

• Mouth ulcers

• Nappy rash

• Piles

• Sore throat

• Sprains and strains

• Teething

• Threadworm

• Vaginal thrush

Most pharmacies in Southwark offer the Pharmacy First Plus scheme. Look out for posters in the pharmacy, ask your GP’s reception staff or look on:

www.selondonics.org/in-your-area/southwark/ southwark-pharmacy-first-plus-scheme/