Darling Magazine February 2012

Wimbledon’s magazine for local women | www.darlingmagazine.co.uk

February - March 2012 FREE

Kaz Fernando National Winner!

HEART OF GOLD Inspiring Woman, Diana Sterck CURRYING FAVOURS Our Indian Locals IMAGE IS EVERYTHING With photographers Patrick Jackson & Victoria Carew Hunt PUT SOME HART INTO IT Professional Voice Coaching SEW FAR, SEW GOOD ‘Stitch-up’ on Arthur Road A YEN FOR LEARNING Schools in the News SEXY TATS GREEN WITH ENVY Morden Hall’s Eco Centre

PLUS: SPRING INTO FASHION; TEEN TROUBLES; CHI GONG For the New Year; DIFFERENT TENORS At New Wimbledon Theatre; SAN LORENZO Ever Up; BASEMENT BUILDING; A COFFEE MACHINE CALLED NANCY, Kate’s Column

CACI is a non-surgical facelift system that works by electrical impluses.

You can’t feel CACI’s subtle micro currents working, because they work at a deep level in the skin, contracting and relaxing the muscles hundreds of times a minute, and like any exercise it tones and shapes as well as strengthens.

editor’s letter Dear Darling Reader

Cover girl, Local Makeup Artist and winner Kaz Fernando. Photograph by Taylor Torr

Publisher Darling Magazine UK Karine Torr Editor Karine Torr 020 8739 0059 Advertising 07930 396356 Email info@darlingmagazine.co.uk Contributing Writers Philippa Hennessy Kate Greenhalgh Emily Ansell Photography Taylor Torr Patrick Jackson Design Director Mark McGough mcgough.mark@gmail.com Printer Aquatint/bsc jane@aquatintbsc.co.uk Distribution Three Colours Ltd info@3colours.co.uk Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Darling Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form electronic, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from the publisher.

Weddings, gossip, scandal and street parties – 2011 was a riot in more ways than one. So roll on 2012, and let the fun and games begin! And what better way to kick off than with our sumptuous and sexy ‘February issue’. If the thought of Valentine’s Day doesn’t get your heart racing there are Julie’s tantalising tattoos, Patrick’s candid camera and Diana Sterck’s great role modelling, while our cover girl Kaz Fernando keeps her brides happy. Victoria Carew Hunt wonders where are all the women and Alex Papoutes gives us a glimpse of Japan’s strange education system.

Love sewing and knitting? Check out trendy new emporium, Stitchup, but if you want to boogie your nights away, Prophesy could be your future. We have culture, competitions and classrooms in this Feb issue and why not do something on a global scale, while you’re at it – Earth Hour on the 31st March is when you can just switch off – yes, all your lights at 8:30pm. But remember to be switched on for Valentine’s on the 14th Feb and Mother’s Day on 13th March.

So, lovely reader, enjoy the mild slide into spring and see you around Wimbledon, no doubt!

Karine Torr Editor | info@darlingmagazine.co.uk

CONTENTS 04 Merton Chamber boss, Diana Sterck inspires us 07 Julie Proctor, expert tattooist bedazzles 09 Alice Wood and her Captain Tortue range for spring 10 Patrick Jackson celeb photographer 13 Ghigo Berni’s excited!

14 Observations & exhibitions with photographer Victoria Carew Hunt 16 Making your Voice heard with Laura Hart 17 How Alessandro Ferullo can bring you some calm 18 Country Living Fair Competition. Win 5 sets of tickets!

19 Local Make-up Artist Kaz Fernando wins again 19 Swish new members’ club opens on The Broadway 20 Wimbledon’s favourite Curry haunts 22 Teen mental illness support from Stem4 23 Ellen Kent brings her Operas to New Wimbledon Theatre 26 Glittering social pages…see if you’ve been papped 31 Sew good down Arthur Rd way 33 New Eco Centre - Morden Hall Park leads the way 34 Your digital legacy. Where will it end up?

36 Wimbledon Guild and your winter fuel allowance 37 The only way up is down - basement extensions 40 What’s on for the diary?

42 Alex Papoutes is big on Japan where schools rule 43 Bridge with Paul Mendelson (and a spot of tea) 45 Classifieds 46 Meet Kate’s new best friend… darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

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inspiring woman

Ten years with Merton Chamber of Commerce.

How did she do it? Editor Karine Torr finds out Commerce is men wearing chains around their necks and playing golf !

WHAT WAS YOUR VISION WHEN YOU STARTED HERE? From the beginning I wanted Merton Chamber of Commerce to be representative of, and welcoming to, all business people, offering a portfolio of services relevant to the diversity of our business base. They always say proof is in the pudding, and with the help of my very talented team we now work with around 4000 businesses in many different ways, proof that our pudding is getting tastier by the year!

Our membership is certainly affordable, costing no more than a small advert for most businesses.

St Raphael’s first Wimbledon Common ‘Santa Dash’ officially started by Diana last year

WHAT DOES 2012 HOLD IN STORE FOR YOU? 2012 is now upon us. News about the Olympics will be a daily affair, and the Queen’s Jubilee will probably run a close second in terms of media coverage.

But many of us will celebrate our own key milestones this year, whether major birthdays, years of marriage, or children’s 4

achievements. In my case, I marked 10 years as CEO of Merton Chamber of Commerce last year and this year the Chamber celebrates 20 years of being in business. Like many businesses we have grown organically over the years and are now a very different beast from the old fashioned view that I still come across - that a Chamber of

feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Looking back over my ten years with the Chamber, I often reflect on what we have done to help the business community. Through our different support services we have helped over 1000 people to set up in business; we’ve certainly helped a number of businesses from going under, we’ve introduced local business forums, we’ve helped businesses go green thereby helping to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, as well as a whole host of other initiatives

Diana as international ice skater

to put business on the map. I have just received an award from Merton Council for my services to the community and I hope that helps to reinforce the reality of the type of organisation we are in 2012.

WHAT DID YOU DO IN A PREVIOUS LIFE? As a former international ice skater, I was obviously skilled in what I did and able to perform in front of an audience. My training gave me many of the key attributes we need to get on in life, and particularly in business - determination, perseverance, keeping an eye on the competition, coming back from defeat, working hard and also a great sense of community.

To be good at any sport you have to be dedicated, be able to perform when it counts. Those are qualities I still use on a daily basis!

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP AND WHO WERE YOUR ROLE MODELS? I’ve been really privileged in my life to have strong local roots paired with experience of living abroad. I was born in Stratford upon Avon but immediately my family moved to Hong Kong. We then moved to Twickenham, and South West London has since

L-R: Paul Windsor, Partner, WSM Partners LLP; Diana Sterck, CEO Merton Chamber of Commerce; Penny Alexander, Project Manager, Love Wimbledon; Tracy Francis, Wimbledon Town Centre Manager, with APS Angela Breen from the Town Centre Team after the Love Wimbledon – Business Improvement District forum at Polka Theatre.

been my home, apart from short stints living in France, Spain, Switzerland and Sheffield! I’ve never really aspired to be like any one person, but I do empathise with those people who show respect and have a strong family and work ethic.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMEN STRIVING FOR TOP JOBS IN TODAY’S WORLD? Firstly, that life isn’t all about work! Life is very hectic these days and so often we are taken along by the tide and don’t have time to reflect on who we are and what we want from life. My advice is to try and get to grips with that early in your working career and work out what work/ life balance you want. This helps

“I’ve never really aspired to be like any one person” put into perspective why some women work part time, others choose not to work at all and others will put in 50 hours a week in their aim to get to the top. I like to think that women who work hard, know what they are doing and can gain recognition for their work will get on and achieve. Most of the women I come across in the world of work are very skilled, not only at what they do but also at the multi-functioning that is an absolute necessity if you have a family and work.

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

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trends

From Angelina, Paris and Drew to Camilla, Victoria and David. Julie Proctor, Artiste explains

J

ULIE: “Why do people get tattoos? In today’s era it’s an accessory. People like to be asked what they mean which is usually something they are inspired by. It’s a conversational piece.

Temporary Airbrush tattoos look like a real tattoo but without the pain. They can last from 24 hours and up to 7 days, depending on your skin type. Dry skin will last longer. Choose from hundreds of designs, or have your own design made into a stencil.

I have been asked to Tattoo at some of the most prestigious events in London. Inside

Battersea Power station for a live concert with Alice Cooper who was, incidentally, a hologram playing live from LA!.. to the Vault at Old Billingsgate for Moroccan themed parties. I’ve tattooed the Smart Car logo on to Smart enthusiasts at Mercedes Benz World, The Only Way is Essex, X Factor and ITV I. Bat Mitsvahs, weddings, festivals, Thames Cruisers, corporate functions and private parties.

girls love to copy celebrities, dads want a football or sport tattoo and mums like to have a TAT on their hip, back or a slightly risky area! When I have finished spraying the ink and dusted it down with the fine powder or glitter, the look of amazement and gasps of ‘I love it’, is such a satisfaction beyond any job! They can be decorated with Swarovski crystals for that extra bling!”

TATs are still relatively new in the UK and very much misunderstood. They are terrific fun for everyone, children love the fairy tattoos, boys love the gothic and Celtic signs, teenage

The Strawberry Studio, Wimbledon for temporary Airbrush Tattoos and Face Painting T: 07792 681 556 strawberrystudioart.co.uk

Our team of professional handymen cover SW19 & SW20

No Call out charge Travel by scooter so we arrive on time Professional and courteous

booking@londonhandyteam.co.uk

Assemble Furniture Fix leaks Fit blinds Hang shelves Painting and Decorating Carpentry Electrics Plumbing Odd-jobs

fashion

By Alice Wood

I

love the start of a new year. It’s so exciting to think about all the possibilities it brings.

At this time of year, we start planning holidays, new home improvements, treats for the family - but, more importantly, how to make the money to turn those plans into a reality!

For many women the need to earn an extra income while balancing the quality of a happy home life poses a big question – how to earn a viable income from part-time work.

That’s precisely why there’s been a huge growth in direct sales businesses. These are companies that sell their products direct to customers from consultants working from home. From beauty to health to fashion,

these companies are now worth £2 billion annually to the UK economy and are the UK’s largest provider of independent earning.

And the exciting news is these new entrepreneurs are mainly women. There are no age barriers or need for previous experience.

This industry offers women of all ages the opportunity to take control of their own income and to create a business with very little outlay or risk.

I think you need to choose a business you have a passion for.

For instance, if you love fashion, then choosing to sell clothes is a perfect fit. I chose to run a direct sales business with Captain Tortue, the French fashion company, along side my Inspiring Women business because it’s complimentary to the personal branding aspect of my training company.

And, of course, I love the clothes and have a constantly refreshed wardrobe every season! For those mums with younger children, the children’s range is a fabulous way to keep the kids stylishly kitted out, while earning money.

Miss Captain Spring/Summer 2012

I am a passionate advocate for women taking control of their life and finances. Choosing to run your own business opens up a whole world of opportunity and financial security. Choosing

Captain Tortue Children’s Spring/Summer 2012

Lady Captain Spring/Summer 2012

to run a direct sales business is a great way to do this in a stress free, part time way. So there’s a fresh idea for a fabulous New Year!

Contact Alice Wood for personal branding and style workshops on: alice@inspiringwomenuk.com www.inspiringwomenuk.com Captain Tortue are currently looking for women interested in becoming consultants for their Spring collection.

Contact them on: 01403 754040 www.captaintortuegroup.com

Business Growth Master Class for Women in Business. Sponsored by NatWest and run by Alice Wood and Claire Habel February 29th at Cannizaro House Hotel: www.businessgrowthmasterclass.eventbrite.co.uk

interview

Darling Editor Karine Torr catches up with this local talent WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? I grew up in Wimbledon but went to school in South Kensington at the Lycee Charles de Gaule.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST BIG PHOTOGRAPHY BREAK? Assisting Robert Mapplethorpe the celebrated American photographer whilst he was in London in the early 80’s.

WHY DID YOU GO TO PARIS? Being half French, and speaking the language, I wanted to experience living in Paris which is a city often associated with great photographers. That, and I was lovesick and wanted to live in any other town than the one she lived in.

I BELIEVE YOU HAVE PHOTOGRAPHED SOME FAMOUS ICONS? Yes indeed, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Yves Saint Laurent, John Galliano to name a few, as well as some politicians such as William Hague and military leaders like Sir Peter de la Billiere.

WHO WERE YOUR FAVOURITES? I really enjoyed photographing Sir Ben Kingsley in Paris as he was into photography himself.

After the sitting we went and bought a camera for his then girlfriend and landed up in a café drinking two bottles of fine wine. Isabelle Huppert the French actress was also great as she flirted outrageously with the camera…

Sir Ben Kingsley

ARE YOU EXHIBITING LOCALLY SOON AND WHERE? Soon in Paris and recently in Wimbledon Village.

WHAT MAKES YOUR WORK UNIQUE? I like to think that I invariably manage to capture the sitter as I see them on the day and not as they want to be perceived, many celebrities have a stock look when photographed and I always try and break that look.

A good example of this is my portrait of Yves Saint Laurent.

“I really enjoyed photographing Sir Ben Kingsley in Paris” He had this false grin during the entire sitting and I resorted to pretending that I had run out of film to capture him looking natural.

Patrick Jackson has worked in advertising and editorial photography in both fashion and portraiture for over 20 years.

Jackson’s intimate and sensitive portraits seek to capture the hidden depths and alternative personality of the sitter whether they’re a model, sports person or film star. His portraits of Sir Anthony Hopkins and Sir Ben Kingsley, amongst several others, are part of the collection at the National portrait Gallery, London.

Patrick divides his time between London and Paris.

Contact: 07710 356236 for a bespoke sitting or email contact@patrickjacksonimages.com patrickjacksonimages.com

Yves Saint Laurent

Voucher must be downloaded from our website www.cannizarohouse.com To make a booking please call 020 8879 1464 and quote ‘Simply Wine & Dine’.

Booking essential and subject to availability Terms & Conditions Valid until 29th February 2012 for lunch and dinner excluding Sunday lunch and Valentines Day. For full terms & conditions please refer to the voucher.

Cannizaro House, West Side, Wimbledon Common, SW19 4UE | cannizarohouse.com | 020 8879 1464

restaurant

OK, SO THIS IS WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENED

By San Lorenzo’s Ghigo Berni

2

010 was an annus horribilis, capped by multiple outages which scuppered our Christmas trade, a year when people would stare for ages at our window menu yet never commit. They’d glance inside and then scurry off, and I had a sense that the formality of tablecloths was spooking them. Something had to be done, and quick.

By the second week of 2011 I’d completely redesigned our website, removed the tablecloths and round tables, replacing them with wooden ones which I’d designed and built myself. Next, I decided to introduce a concept called Spuntini - a kind of Italian small eats menu which was partly inspired by Polpo in Soho, but mostly based on our old Garden Café menu. Gone were the set course menus, in were the small affordable satellite dishes.

I worked long into the early hours for months on end setting up a facebook page and getting to grips with twitter, creating loads of new dishes, photographing, exploring ideas and concepts, experimenting with table layouts, menu styles, fonts, lighting, and furniture placement as we pulled the restaurant through a major, but subtle, compositional transition.

I built a new bar shelf and added some vintage stools

reclaimed from storage. Then I struck a deal with Moretti Lager, who provided a draught facility, elegant pilsner glasses, beautiful ice buckets, stunning retro pizza plateware and a brand new front canopy. We got a neon sign, new apron styles, new white tablecloths for the now smart conservatory, and we filled the place with tealights and fresh music. The year-long vibe was incredible as more and more customers came in and got hooked. By year-end, the turnaround was undeniable. San Lorenzo had risen with energy and vigour from its own smouldering ashes.

I kept pinching myself all year, checking my observations and thinking that it wasn’t real.

But real it was, and we’d made unbelievable progress against

a very unflattering economic background indeed.

Through it all I managed to write my bi-monthly piece for Darling, tweet about things, write a blog, and collaborate on a new project called The Artful Eaters.

We built its foundations and even completed our very first editorial commissions for AQTASTE and NOWNESS. 2012 will be about some very exciting developments both at San Lorenzo and with Artful. Oh, and I turned 50, so now I work out with the large ladies at aquagym!

CONTACT DETAILS 38 Wimbledon Hill Road 020 8946 8463 www.sanlorenzo.com twitter: @fuoriporta

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

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feature

Photographer Victoria Carew Hunt has been…

J

ust before the last election Harriet Harman gave a reception for Victoria’s book “One Two One: Women in Parliament” in the Prime Minister’s office. Many MPs came together to reflect on their term of office, some having been elevated to the House of Lords. Breakthrough Breast Cancer funded the party

to thank the photographer for raising funds with her work. The portraits looked brilliant hanging on the glass wall in Portcullis House, and there was much discussion of how the women had been shaped by their years of office.

Victoria, who studied economic & social history at Exeter

Annette Crosby with rescued greyhounds, on Wimbledon Common. Photograph by V. Carew Hunt

University, has also recently been looking at the underrepresentation of women in national and international art collections. To quote one example in the U.K., the Victoria & Albert Museum holds 1,700 works of European sculpture, of which only 136 were created by women.

Of these, just a few are on show.

Statistics in the U.S., where 51% of visual artists working today are women, suggest their representation in public galleries is virtually non-existent.

Victoria is now planning to revive and extend her collection of photographs from “The Dog Show”, first seen at King’s College School.

Victoria has limited edition canvases of local scenes and nature on view at Cannizaro House Hotel this month. The works were printed on canvas for the launch of Envisualise Design & Print in Kingston.

Her work can be seen by appointment: 020 8946 6038.

She is accepting commissions, and is particularly interested in dogs and their owners. carew-hunt.com Editor: Dear reader, if you have any thoughts on women and their place in the arts, please email me info@darlingmagazine.co.uk

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darling/feb-march 2012

The Rt. Hon. Harriet Harman, MP with Victoria, among party guests who included Glenda Jackson and Siobhan McDonagh.

Photograph V. Carew Hunt

training

Says Laura Hart, fabulous local voice coach

A

s someone whose career has revolved around words and their expression I can vouch for their power and impact.

messages for conferences, interviews, meetings and presentations, to ensure that they sound professional, knowledgeable and interesting.

of Wimbledon Common where Study girls used to play rounders), and I was proud to win their Networking Champion award in October.

My drama teacher at The Study, in Peek Crescent, in the days when they educated girls to 16yrs, is responsible for encouraging me to study Voice, Speech and Drama; following her advice, I went to drama school and have worked as a Voice Coach for over 20 years.

Technology could have taken away the need for us to speak to each other but it has reinforced the fact that people still want and need to connect in person, as a result I am busier than ever helping people to communicate.

I am looking forward to talking, listening and sharing my skills with my clients and colleagues throughout 2012.

My career has enabled me to connect with people in a range of professions, I coach and train executives to devise, refine and deliver their crucial business

Networking has been a natural extension of spreading the word about my business and Ladies at 11 has been a fantastic community for me, I run the Wimbledon group at Cannizaro House (close to the part

The key is to keep talking and my advice to everyone is ADD COLOUR TO YOUR VOICE Laura Hart: Voice Coach E: laura@laurahart.co.uk W: laurahart.co.uk T: +44 (0) 7740 438524 www.ladiesat11.co.uk

Superb riding over Wimbledon Common & Richmond Park. Expert, friendly tuition in private or small group lessons. Special short courses for all standards. Come along to our next New Rider Open Morning.

wvstables.com | 020 8946 8579

spiritual

Alessandro Ferullo expands on the art of Chi Gong, connecting with the Universal Energy (CHI) and benefitting your health and outlook for 2012

How does Chi Gong help with rejuvenation?

With Chi Gong, a practice which is over 2000 years old, there are many health benefits. By cultivating and balancing our energy (Chi) internally this manifests externally so our body relaxes, our joints become more supple, our face becomes softer, and we can look fresher and rejuvenated.

Once connected with the Chi it is like connecting with the source, which helps to sustain and restore a vibrant and healthy state.

Can you expand on the idea of Universal energy?

Generally in daily lives our energy can be in a scattered state and as a result our health suffers long term. After a class we can feel re-charged and nourished as our energy (CHI) goes from a casual state, into a better and

more organised state, leaving us feeling recharged and rebalanced.

Do you believe the practice can help us cope better with tougher times?

When we connect with our true nature on a deeper level, we connect better with other people and cope better with the world around us. This can help greatly with dealing with upheaval and difficulties life throws at us. I believe we attract more luck and better situations into our lives which these days is much needed for us all. We also feel more inspired in many ways.

Monday Evening Classes 7.30- 8.30pm (drop in classes) Wimbledon Village Club Hall, corner Ridgway and Lingfield Road Contact Alessandro Ferullo 07747 113305 alessandro@flowinghealth.co.uk www.chineseheritage.co.uk

“Once connected with the Chi it is like connecting with the source”

competition

F

or a touch of Spring and the essence of the country a visit to the Country Living Spring Fair is just the ticket.

the Country Living Spring Fair heralds all that’s loved about a summer lifestyle.

The Country Living Magazine Spring Fair at the Business Design Centre, Islington, London from 21 – 25 March 2012, promises a lovely day amongst some of the UK’s leading artisans. Celebrating skilled craftsmanship, delicious food and delicacies, inspired gardening, as well as presenting a wonderful array of accessories for the home,

WIN A PAIR OF FREE TICKETS TO THE FAIR

BY ANSWERING THE QUESTION BELOW:

COMPETITION

Which of these is a spring flower: daffodil, rose, sunflower?

Darling readers should submit their answer to exec@articulate.co.uk and put

DARLING COMPETITION as the subject.

* Special Darling Magazine Readers’ ticket offer – special price of £11.50 quoting CLSPRING 2 (Ticket price on the door which is £16.00) Tickets must be booked no later than 1pm on the day before the due visit.

TELEPHONE: 0844 848 0160 www.countrylivingfair.com

news

You couldn’t make it up!

Kaz Fernando takes the cake at the 2012 Wedding Industry Awards

R

ecently, local resident Kaz Fernando beat strong competition to be crowned as National Wedding Makeup Artist of the Year at the 2012 Wedding Industry Awards.

in the London and South East category, Kaz Fernando Makeup was chosen as a result of over fifty brides who took the time to nominate and vote for Kaz by submitting detailed reviews about her work.

At a glitzy ceremony attended by over 300 of the wedding supplier industry’s leading lights at Cafe de Paris in London’s West End, Kaz Fernando Makeup emerged triumphant from a national shortlist of 8 to be crowned queen of wedding makeup on stage by Sky News Royal Correspondent Sarah Hewson and organiser Damien Bailey.

Already the regional winner

On winning her award, Kaz said, “It’s a dream come true, I’m so, so delighted. It really means a lot to have had so many of my brides taking the time to persuade the judges to choose me as winner of this fabulous award.”

“There were hundreds of wedding makeup artists who entered back in the autumn and to actually be named the national

winner simply hasn’t sunk in yet!

It’s not all about the makeup, it’s about becoming friends with your brides and many of the brides I’ve worked for have stayed friends with me long after the event.” www.kazfernandomakeup.co.uk kaz@kazfernandomakeup.co.uk

The Prophecy Darling predicts big things for this über club

T

he 10th of February sees the opening of a new and exciting up market members’ club which is unique to the area and designed for the discerning customer.

Set in one of Wimbledon’s most beautiful and historic landmarks, 141 The Broadway dates back to the 1880’s and has been lovingly renovated and restored to combine its original features with contemporary style and art nouveau designs. With large banquettes and featured fireplace, it is quite simply the perfect space for business meetings or a social night out.

The Prophecy London is launching with a grand opening

party on Friday 10th February.

The Mayor of Merton, Gilli Lewis-Lavender will be cutting the ribbon and guests will be greeted by an opera singer and will party into the night.

The concept behind The Prophecy is to combine the traditional members’ clubs with a stylish, international, and modern approach. Creating a place where you can unwind, hold meetings, socialise, network with like minded people, entertain, eat great food and indulge in an exotic array of drinks and cocktails. The weekday evenings will feature a number of themed nights from burlesque performers, jazz and live music to an array of wonderful eclectic international DJ’s. There will

also be a number of cultural evenings with an international flavour of food and beverage.

There are seven different membership options with a lot of exclusive benefits so there’s something for everyone. From a full corporate membership through to a night-owl membership, the standard is high and applicants will be invited to be interviewed by a committee of experienced individuals from the theatre, music, film and events industry. www.141thebroadway.com

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

19

restaurants

Tennis is what springs to most people’s minds when they think of Wimbledon but do they know where the stars head for dinner after a game?

By Emily Ansell

A

ward winning and unique curry restaurants are one of the area’s best kept secrets. Here’s a selection of some favourites.

Namada Namada’s approach to marketing the restaurant and the knowledge of their cuisine is like no other and their remarkable efforts and talents were recognised when they won Best Young Restaurateur 2011 by the Asian Curry Awards (www. asiancurryawards.com). Namada’s success comes from creating unique new styles and approaches to the way they cook and present

their food. Saif Alom, owner of Namada says, “Our aim is to make every client an integral part of our restaurant, thus creating an on-going and healthy bond with our customers.”

197 – 199 Replingham Road Southfields, SW18 5LY 020 8870 5538 | namada.co.uk Jimmy Spices At Jimmy Spices, you can enjoy more than just a curry. The restaurant holds a vast array of authentic cuisine from India, Thailand, China, Italy and Mexico. Simply choose from the abundance of ingredients and chefs will cook your meal in front of you. Its unique features include an open plan kitchen and an unusual Ice Cream Teppanyaki.

122 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1RH jimmyspices.co.uk Chutneys Explore a culinary journey through ancient India with Chutneys’ award winning chef.

Prepare to be enchanted by a fusion of authentic spices blended to amaze. It has been one of SW19’s best kept secrets for over 25 years. You can enjoy Chutneys at home too with their free takeaway and delivery service. 31 Hartfield Road, Wimbledon, SW19 3SG 020 8540 9788 | go2chutneys.co.uk

Rajdoot Cooking up delicious food for 35 years, Rajdoot is the only restaurant of its kind in the heart of Wimbledon village. It is a favourite of Roger Federer.

The Williams sisters and Maria Sharapova have also tried the Rajdoot spices and the small, traditional restaurant has attracted big attention from The Telegraph, Guardian and London Evening Standard.

72 Wimbledon High Street Wimbledon, SW19 5EE 020 8946 0238 rajdoot-wimbledon.co.uk Ahmed Tandoori Ahmed’s aim is to keep Wimbledon residents happy with a wide range of popular Indian dishes to eat in or be taken away if you don’t want the formality of dining out. Perfect for nofrills, quick service and old school style Indian food.

2 The Broadway, SW19 1RF 020 8946 6214 Paprika Paprika opened in 2000, aiming to bring contemporary Indian food to the new millennium.

Their famed chicken starter has been featured in Time Out and Time and Leisure magazines as well as being known for charity work in the community. They offer a free takeaway service and are a favourite of TV comedian

"This is by far the BEST Indian restaurant in South West London... bar none!"

TIM. E - SOUTHFIELDS

25% OFF WHEN YOU DINE

10% OFF DELIVERY AND TAKEAWAY

SUNDAY LUNCH EXPRESS

25% off your food on presentation of this advert when you dine in.

Takeaway and delivery service available - 10% off food bill when you order online

4 course meal £9.95 between the hours of 12:30pm - 5pm

namada.co.uk | 020 8870 5538 | 197-199 Replingham Road, Southfields SW18 5LY

Stephen K. Amos. After a busy year, Paprika is preparing to move to the bustling Broadway.

1 Kingston Rd, Wimbledon, SW19 1JX 020 8540 9229 Momshad Momshad serve a variety of tasty dishes at their restaurant and provide a takeaway service. A favourite for those looking for great food at a reasonable price.

A visit to Momshad means you will eat among regulars in an authentic Indian atmosphere but if you’re planning on a cosy night at home with a curry and film, look no further. 100 Merton High Street, SW19 1BD 020 8543 8763 Wimbledon Tandoori With a pedigree in Wimbledon Village stretching back over

30 years, Wimbledon Tandoori with its extensive range of Balti and Biriani dishes or fine meat curry or vegetable curries, never disappoints. 26 Ridgway, Wimbledon Village, SW19 4QW 020 8946 1797 wimbledontandoori.co.uk Cinnamon Tree They are known for free range food with no artificial colouring and flavouring and pride themselves in serving healthy, low fat Indian cuisine.

592 Kingston Road, Raynes Park, SW20 8DN 020 8543 883 cinamon-tree.co.uk House of Spice Visit for a variety of popular Indian dishes and an ‘eat as much as you like’ buffet on Sundays.

A private function room is

“Their remarkable efforts and talents were recognised when they won Best Young Restaurateur 2011” Namada also available, making it the perfect venue for a celebration. houseofspice.uk.com SIA Authentic Punjabi cuisine with pleasant decor and atmosphere.

Plenty of parking in the evening.

193 Worple Rd, SW20 8RE 020 8947 2212

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

21

health

TEENAGE MENTAL ILLNESS Dr. Nihara Krause, local founder of the new STEM4 charity, explains its aims “Statistics show that mental illness in teenagers is on the rise.”, says Dr. Krause, “Mental illness in young people can have serious long-term physical and psychological consequences as well as affecting intellectual, emotional and social development. Four conditions, which are prevalent in teenage years - Eating Disorders, Depression, Self Harm and Addiction - are targeted by STEM4 a new charity that was set up last year, which aims to Stem Teenage Mental Illness and Support Teenage Mental Health.”

STEM4 provide relevant and accurate information to potential sufferers, their friends, their families and schools on the development of these conditions, information on early detection and prompt recognition and clear guidelines for management through their website and by offering workshops to these groups in schools. The information is all evidence based, written, prepared and delivered by Dr. Nihara Krause, a Consultant Clinical Psychologist who, having worked with people who had severe and often chronic mental illness, wanted to provide easy access to good mental health early in their development.

She set up STEM4 in June 2011 after the death of a sixteen year old of an eating disorder in 22

Merton provided the impetus.

STEM4 now comprises of a group of eight volunteers, all with different skill sets and is a registered charity.

“As well as being a Clinical Psychologist, I am also a Neuro Psychologist and I lecture at Surrey University.” Dr. Krause tells Darling. “I have written one novel and I am very involved in teaching, training and supervising professionals including G.Ps, nurses, etc.

I have been a Clinician for over twenty years.

We have lived in Wimbledon for about 17 years and we have four children. We are very involved in the Wimbledon Community and my husband organises and has taken part in many sporting events locally. He is helping to organise our second major fund raising event in February – the Malta half and full marathon for walkers and runners since he is a devoted marathon runner and has so far completed 74 marathons!

All the committee members and the trustees live in Wimbledon or have a Wimbledon

feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

connection and are women who cover a range of professions such as law, accounts, education, marketing, website design, catering and Design Technology.”

For more details visit: stem4.org.uk

Dr. Nihara Krause, founder of STEM4

opera

Ellen Kent Brings Opera to the People

A

WARD-WINNING opera producer Ellen Kent has relaunched her quest to bring opera to the people with the stunning and emotional productions of Madama Butterfly and La Traviata. The shows, featuring the internationally acclaimed Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv, are at the New Wimbledon Theatre in Wimbledon on February 10 and 11.

London. Music is provided by the esteemed Kharkiv theatre orchestra. Ellen added: “It feels so good to be returning with two of my favourite productions and even more so in light of the many letters I’ve received asking me why I stopped touring. It’s also very exciting to be working with a promoter I’ve always admired since he brought the Bolshoi Ballet to the Royal Albert Hall 20 years ago.”

After producing her own shows for 29 years, Ellen changed direction to focus on developing her role as an artistic director in larger-scale productions. But she couldn’t resist the lure of the regional tours and last year teamed up with Derek Block Concert Promotions, one of the biggest international promoters in the entertainments industry.

These fantastic new productions featuring beautiful sets and gorgeous costumes, designed by well-known Russian designer Nadezhda Shvets, have taken 18 months to bring to stage – and have been well worth waiting for.

“My operas have to be emotional and beautiful. Mine isn’t minimalist – it’s traditional opera with a sexy feel.”

Visit www.ellenkent.com for info on the 75-date tour. Call the box office on 0844 871 7646 Derek Block Classical Arts on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter @DBClassicalArts

International sopranos Maria Tsonina and Elena Dee will be singing the role of Cio Cio San and Violetta, while “ladies favourite” Andriy Perfilov is Pinkerton and Alfredo. They are joined by a 70-strong company including Ruslan Zinevych, who has sung with Pavarotti and performed Ellen’s operas at the Royal Albert Hall in

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SANTA AT CENTRE COURT

POLE STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS’ XMAS PARTY

L-R: Ben Davidson, Simon Pole and Mike Burrowes

WINTER WONDERLAND AT CENTRE COURT

L-R: Joan Henry, volunteer at Volunteer Centre Merton, with grotto helper Rachael Seaforth-Brown and Santa, welcoming Rose and Merlin Lewis, and their mum Leslie Lewis, to the grotto at Centre Court Shopping Centre. Almost £6000 was raised!

Rubbing shoulders with the stars! L-R: Sam Attwater, Suzy Wood, Samantha Brown, Anna Williamson

WIMBLEDON VILLAGE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION XMAS PARTY

L-R: Caroline Georges, Kim Griffiths & Charelle Muslu

L-R: Richard Holden, Teen Frazer, Anthony Ashton, Zara Sukharisingh & John Collard

HILL SINGERS CHOIR AT ST MATTHEWS CHURCH

Local Choir celebrating 60 years together!

26

feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

socials WIMBLEDON VILLAGE STABLES SPONSORED RIDE RAISES OVER £13 000

Winners of the best fancy dress went to Eduardo Vincente on dressed as a Spanish Indian on pony, Dora, with mom, Pauline Vicente

Some of the riders wore fancy dress costumes which caused great amusement to passers-by on the Common

OPENING OF NEW SHOP, ‘STITCH UP’ ON ARTHUR RD

FUNNY WOMEN RAISE LAUGHS AND MONEY FOR VICTORIA FOUNDATION AT ATHENA NETWORK COMEDY EVENT

L-R: Lynne Parker, Lorna Votier and Julie Eltham

L-R: Suzanne Molton, Ellie Hage, Sandie Bonfield (Owner), Jane Clark and Carla Franke

WIMBLEDON WOMEN IN BUSINESS CELEBRATE XMAS AT SENTI

L-R : Janet Borrow, Comics: Rachel Merrick, Vicky Peirson, Kish Modasia and Gail Downey

socials FUN & FASHION AT ELYS GALA DAY

Photograph: Joshua Tucker Photography

TWO OPENINGS AT SOUTHFIELDS GALLERY

MOSAIC ARTISTS: L-R: Antonia Cannon, Chander KantaBhasin, Andrea Leila Brown and Rosie Casseldon

PAPIER MACHÈ ARTISTS: L-R: back row -Antonia Cannon, Sam Wagner, Boleslaw Pogorzelski, Anne Bachmann, JacquiLamplough, Roberta Stoker L-R: frontrow - Irene Milbradt-Jiminez, Susan Lee Kerr, Penny Grant

MERTON COUNCIL’S ‘SUMMER OF CULTURE’ SCREENING

L-R Gail Marcus, Mark Krycki, Rachel Nelken, JamesMcGinlay, Ash Akhtar, Claire Walsh and Emma Boyd

‘COSY GLIMPSE’ LOCAL POP-UP SHOP EVENT

L-R: Jo Simmons, Nicky Hawke, Pascalle Ollerhead & Lucy Dickson

ST RAPHAEL’S SANTA DASH EVENT

L-R: Samantha and Natalie Jones

28

PAPIER MACHÈ ARTISTS

FULLER GILBERT HOST MOMENTUM CHARITY EVENT

L-R: Afroza Begum, Sylvie Morton, Natalie Harvey (Momentum), Jo Mir and Laura Hart

feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

socials FoCT CHARITY EVENT AT 100 CLUB

L-R: Karen Marton, Organiser - Alex Howlett, Mark Curry, Adrian Mills, Rachel Angel, Gordon Torr and Malory Torr

FUND RAISER ON PARKSIDE

L-R Lily Desmond, Jo Smedly, Jo Millar & Rachel Lavelle (Co Hosts), Holly Lavelle and Karen Marton

VALLEBONA SHOWCASE

L-R: Stefano & Naoko Vallebona, Jacob Kenedy, author of ‘Bocca’, Rishma Hasham and Cath Cartright

SEEN AT LAUNCH OF ENVISUALISE

L-R: Andrew Marsh, Rishma Hasham, Sameer Hasham, Victoria Carew Hunt and Shawn Stone

L-R: Mark Curry, Jo Price and Compare, Adrian Mills

MERTON CHAMBER XMAS BASH

L-R: Christopher Goodwin, Carol Andrews, Sara Thain, Caroline Cook, Piers Read and Sheelagh McCarthy

JOHN WHITTALL EXHIBITION AT FOREST BAILIFF

L-R Carol Ann Dickson, Heather Forland, John Whittall (Artist), Carole Marshall and Lesley Morrison

WIMBLEDON BUSINESS FORUM AT SAN LORENZO

L-R: Robyn Harley, Tracy Francis (Wimbledon Town Centre Manager), Adam Jacobi & Shirley Woodcock

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

29

socials CAKEOLOGY TEAM SCOOP PRIZES AT 2011 INTERNATIONAL CAKE SHOW

MERTON ART SOCIETY EXHIBITION AT WIMBLEDON LIBRARY

L-R: Artists: Antony Pike, Chairman - Julia Griffiths, Teresa Duncton (back) Deborah Mandelli and Daniele Mandelli

SEEN AT THE STUDY PREP XMAS FAIR

L-R: Niki Barnett, Fiona Rinaldi, Laura George (Owner and PME UK Cake Decorator of the Year 2011) and Emma Williams

L-R: Dudley & Elisabeth Pennell, Annie Trapnell and Lucy Rice-Mellor

SEEN AT HEMINGWAYS ‘LIVE MUSIC ON SUNDAYS’

SEEN AT GOODFELLOWS LAUNCH

L-R: Stephen Alambritis, Head of Merton Council, Jill Truman from the Raynes Park & West Barnes Residents’ Association, Jason Sinclair from Sinclair Ford Surveyors and David Da Costa from Goodfellows

L-R: Andrew Dunn, Andrew Douglas, Maura Westlake, Ben Westlake and Craig Robinson

JIGSAW PLAYERS LAUNCH CD AT B&O

ADVERTISE IN darling FOR DETAILS VISIT DARLINGMAGAZINE.CO.UK OR CALL 0793039 6356 L-R: Philip Green, Robert Lewis, Chris Boswell, Lindsay Wilson, Kaija Lukas - (front) Emmanuella Reiter-Bootiman

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feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

socials MACMILLAN XMAS FAIR RAISES OVER £8500!

WIMBLEDON LTC – AIRDOME LAUNCH EVENT

L-R: Ginny Essex, Maggie Richards, Dudley Buchanan,Beverley Van der Molen, Marsha Beresford (back) and Rosie Boome

Photos by Rowena Chowdrey

L-R: Roy Staniland – LTA Surrey Hon. County Secretary, Stephan Israel – Wimbledon LTC, Tennis Committee Chairman Mayor of Merton, Claire Hamilton – LTA Surrey, David Johnson – The Wimbledon Club, Chairman and Paul Hutchins – former British Davis Cup Captain and player

XMAS COCKTAILS AT MOLTON BROWN

L-R: Marie-Helene Rodriquez, Director Chic Locations, Sandie Bonfield, ‘StitchUp’, Agnieszka Cybula, Manager Molton Brown and Sue Fairbairn

L-R: Spencer Israel, Timothy Lloyd, Paul Hutchins

STITCH-UP IN ARTHUR ROAD

M

y name is Sandie Bonfield and I’m a local Wimbledon resident with a background in dressmaking and a passion for crafting and creating. Recently it has become difficult to find good local supplies because haberdashery shops and departments have been shrinking. I started to wonder whether, with all the creative, dynamic people in Wimbledon, there might be scope for a new, modern haberdashery, fabric and wool shop in the area.

With this in mind I opened ‘Stitch-up’ at 130 Arthur Road, Wimbledon Park, in December, to cater for sewing and knitting enthusiasts like myself. I’ve

sourced high and low to find a range of fabrics from fun furs and dressing up fabrics to more luxurious wools and silks. l also stock a range of wools, knitting and sewing patterns, quilting fabrics, haberdashery, books and craft kits for young and old.

Starting in the New Year I plan to hold classes, clubs and workshops to encourage people to pick up their needles and get going. If you share my enthusiasm for creating and crafting, or simply need a reel of cotton, please come along and browse or sign up for one of our sessions.

Stitch-up 020 8944 6488 130 Arthur Rd SW19 8AA www.stitch-upinfo.co.uk darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

31

green news

The Living Green Centre in Morden Hall Park opens its eco doors - Caroline Pankhurst tells us more

T

he National Trust at Morden Hall Park has recently opened an exciting new visitor centre in its sustainably renovated Victorian stable yard.

It is the first time in many years that the previously semi-derelict area has been open to the public.

The technology and materials used in the restoration process make the stable yard the most energy-efficient historic building in the country. The stable yard houses a vibrant new Living Green exhibition centre with advice and information on how to cut your fuel bills and make your own home more energy efficient.

But it is much more than a place for eco-warriors – the exhibition includes an eco-friendly dolls house, a model waterwheel and fun rocking chairs around a wood burning stove! The exhibition is

proving popular with adults and children alike.

There is also a space for temporary exhibitions, the first one of which harked back to the late 1940s when film-star parties were held in the Park and local people were encouraged to come and meet celebrities. The space now shows “Flying the Flag for Haydon,” a community exhibition

by AFC Wimbledon about Wombles, recycling and flags!

A film about the park and its history, made by local students, is also on show and there is a new audio trail for the park.

With a small café serving light refreshments, as well as craft stalls for local artists and watersaving eco loos (check out the one with the wash basin built into the cistern!), the stable yard is destined not only to be a new

National Trust Director General, Fiona Reynolds cutting the ribbon to officially open the refurbished stable yard at Morden Hall Park. With her, from left are Chair of Heritage Lottery Fund London, Wesley Kerr; Deputy Mayor of Merton, Cllr Chris Edge, Merton council leader, Cllr Stephen Alambritis, Living Green lead partner, Huib Haccou and Property Manager Zoë Colbeck

Centre for Morden Hall Park, but also a much talked-about visitor attraction for people of all ages in south west London.

The Living Green and temporary exhibitions are open every day.

The café and craft stalls are open on weekends from 11am to 4pm until March and then every day during the summer. Morden Hall Park can be reached easily from Morden tube station and Phipps Bridge tram stop.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PROJECT VISIT: www.nationaltrustmorden hallpark.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/Morden HallParkNT

Fliss Coombs, Regional Communications Adviser Zoë Colbeck, Morden HallPark Property Manager Zoë Adams, Community Projects Manager, Morden HallPark Caroline Pankhurst, Living Green Project Coordinator

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

33

legal

With the increase of online banking, pensions and investments and now the storing of personal effects such as photographs, music, blogs and social media digitally, Will experts at Hart Brown warn people to consider what will happen to your digital legacy when planning your Will as the usual paper trail may no longer be available.

Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (490290).

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

0208 947 8171 wills@hartbrown.co.uk www.hartbrown.co.uk

Hart Brown are holding a series of free inheritance tax planning seminars this spring, for more information contact marketing@hartbrown.co.uk

O

user name and password of the deceased person. The same would also be true of any email accounts.

With the strong push to be environmentally friendly, many banks and other organisations are encouraging their customers to move to a paper-free system of statements, including for bank accounts, credit cards and other investments. In the past, one of the key ways to establish where a deceased person held accounts was to go through their paperwork, and any post received after their death. This is becoming far harder as less and less paperwork is being produced.

details of any user names and passwords that you may want your executors and/or family to have access to when you have died.

ver the last few years we’ve seen the rise of the ‘silver surfers’, as more and more older people are now using the internet to store and access information.

But, with this increase in online activity people are building up a strong digital legacy. So how will your loved ones deal with the issues that they may cause when you die?

In addition, many people upload information, such as photographs and videos, to social media such as Facebook and YouTube.

However, depending on the terms of use set by the relevant provider, these accounts can come to an end on death. However, even if the information is not lost through account closure, it is unlikely that any family member would be able to access the information without the

“Many banks and other organisations Many people have begun to include this sort of information in their wills. However, after they are encouraging have died the will may become a their customers public document and therefore, any confidential information in it to move to can be obtained simply. a paper-free To tackle this issue, we at Hart Brown recommend keeping a list system of of the institutions where you hold assets, and from which you statements” receive an income, along with

However, this information is of course extremely confidential and you should be positive that it is in a safe and secure place. It is possible for information stored on a PC to be accessed by hackers and it is also possible that printed information may fall into the wrong hands.

One possibility would be to store the information with your original will, either with your solicitor, bank or otherwise, as long as you are confident that it will be stored safely.

Having taken these steps, it is also extremely important

that you remember to keep the information updated, as old information can be as useless as no information at all.

It is also important to remember that the same issues could occur if you lost your mental capacity during your lifetime. Consider making a lasting power of attorney so that someone can step into your shoes and at the same time, think about how you are going to ensure that your chosen attorney(s) have access to the information that they will need.

For more information about digital legacies, contact Chris Thurlow: wills@hartbrown.co.uk or call 0208 947 8171

darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

35

charity

Winter Fuel Allowance Campaign Launched By The Wimbledon Guild

L

ocal charity The Wimbledon Guild has this week launched a campaign to ask local people who do not need their winter fuel allowance to donate it to them. The charity is expecting to receive more requests this year for help with winter related costs than it did last year.

From November to March last winter the Guild supported local people with payments towards food, clothing and

heating bills totalling more than £2,500. Jane Platts Head of Social Welfare said “Now that the weather is getting colder we are expecting a significant increase in requests for help. We are also expecting more older people to contact us for support as this is the first year of the lower winter fuel allowance.”

Wendy Pridmore Chief Executive said, “This year the economic climate has been difficult for everyone.

The money we receive from

people donating their winter fuel allowance to us will be used to help local people over the winter months with food, clothing and heating related costs.”

To donate your winter fuel allowance to The Wimbledon Guild you can drop in or post a cheque made payable to The Wimbledon Guild, to Jane Platts, The Wimbledon Guild at Guild House, 30-32 Worple Road, Wimbledon, SW19 4EF or call Jane on 020 8946 0735.

contruction

UNDERGROUND MOVEMENT The new way to use your footprint by Jason Coetzee

I

t is a New Year and therefore time to explore new possibilities; time to get creative and to turn that dream home into a reality.

If it is more space you require, you might want to consider a basement. The possibilities are endless and they can really change the way you live.

In the past, once you had converted the loft and done an extension, you pretty much had to move if you wanted more space, but that is no longer the case. Now you can extend downwards and create an entirely new level to your home. The beauty of a basement is that you do not have to stop at the footprint of your house either, more and more clients are extending their basements into the garden. This allows you to build a completely new living

space underneath your garden, without sacrificing precious outdoor living space. These subterranean rooms are highly efficient spaces as they are well insulated, making them ideal for a swimming pool or gym.

Another advantage is the fact that neighbours can not object to the look, size or fact that your extension will be casting a shadow over their garden. Most councils also acknowledge the benefits of basements, in that not only are they energy efficient, they also provide more living accommodation for the same footprint and therefore better utilisation of building land.

One of our clients in Clapham will not only be extending their new basement beyond the existing footprint, but we are also building a double storey extension on top of this. They

are gaining a whopping 1500 square feet, turning an ordinary 3 bed, mid terrace house into a 5 bed designer living space. The basement alone will contain a bedroom, utility room, bathroom, cinema and entertainment room and an IT and services room, all reached by an impressive galleried staircase.

All this without the cost of stamp duty and the hassle of moving. Something to consider for the New Year perhaps?

Call Jason Coetzee m: 07932 753 328 www.rhinoconstruction.co.uk

Lancaster Gardens, SW19

£16,000 pcm

A modern six bedroom gated detached house at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Wimbledon Village and within walking distance of Wimbledon station. Neutrally decorated throughout, the accommodation comprises a modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room with doors to a landscaped garden, a spacious living room, dining room, cloakroom, master bedroom with en suite bathroom, two bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, three further double bedrooms and two family bathrooms. The property also benefits from an entertainment room, additional bedroom / reception room and shower room on the lower ground floor.

For any advice regarding lettings, please contact Amelia Redington, Associate Director wimbledon@jackson-stops.co.uk 0208 879 0099 www.jackson-stops.co.uk

& Company

Kingston

Fuller Gilbert are pleased to announce the opening of their Kingston branch.

We have dealt with property in this area for over 30 years, working and living in the area to give us unrivalled local knowledge. So whatever your property needs may be, we are dedicated to making moving home easier.

Kingston House * 15 Coombe Road Kingston upon Thames * Surrey * KT2 5AB

020 8546 4499

Grant Fuller and Peter Gilbert Estate Agents, Valuers, Development Consultants 316a Worple Road West Wimbledon London SW20 8QU 020 8947 4764 www.fullergilbert.co.uk

www.fullergilbert.co.uk

events

SCOTTISH EXHIBITION OF PAINTERS 29th Jan - 11th Feb at Wimbledon Fine Art, 41 Church Road. T: 0208 944 6593 staffordgallery.co.uk SPORT RELIEF MILE 25th March, with the new route along the Mall taking in some of the most iconic sights the city has to offer, completing 1, 3 or 6 miles. sportrelief.com FOODBANK CONCERT Thur 1 March at 7.30pm two award winning South African singers, Njabulo Madlala and Pumeza Matsikiza, will perform at St James’s, Piccadilly to raise awareness for Foodbank South Africa.T: Janet on 07956 423 223

HEMINGWAYS LOUNGE Open Mic Wed from 8:30pm Sun Live music 4:30 - 6:30pm MERTON CHAMBER COURSE Emergency First Aid at Work (HSE Approved Course) Wed 29th Feb 09:30 – 4pm (Lunch included). Tuition House, 27 – 37 St George’s Road, Wimbledon, SW19 4EU BUSINESS BREAKFAST For Raynes Park Businesses Wed 15 March 08:00 – 09:30am at Bar 191,Worple Rd Raynes Park, SW20 8RE T: 020 8944 5501 DAFFODIL DAY IN AID OF MARIE CURIE Head to the Piazza 17th March for a day of entertainment.

SOUTHSIDE HOUSE Opening for tours Sat 7th April. in Sept. Tel for details & days. southsidehouse.com or call 0208 946 7643 NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE Hormonal Housewives: 22nd - 25th Feb, Lord of the Dance: 28th Feb - 4th March, Nutcracker - Matthew Bourne: 13th - 17th March, South Pacific: 20th - 31st March. Call 0844 871 7646 (bkg fee) or online at www.atgtickets. com/ wimbledon (bkg fee).

savills.co.uk

Sponsored by

By Alex Papoutes

M

y name is Alexander Loizos Papoutes and I am a British/ Cypriot who was born and bred in Wimbledon village. I fell in love with learning Judo at school which led to my dream of going to Japan in order to travel, learn the Japanese language, and continue my training.

I spent 6 months on my gap year there and another year as an exchange student at a Japanese university in Tokyo. I was exposed to Japanese education throughout my degree course and time visiting various schools all over Japan. Here are my thoughts.

One thing that all parents know is the importance of their children’s education and well being. The Japanese are a nation that understands and takes this notion very seriously. As a linguist, student and traveller of Japan I continuously encountered the word isshinndoutai, which literally means in Japanese, “One in Mind, Body and Soul”. Although this notion was the essence of the way of the samurai, it is still very much apparent in Japan’s society and education today.

The basic school system in Japan is comprised of elementary school (lasting six years), middle school (three years), high school (three years), and

42

feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

university (four years). Education is compulsory only for the nine years of elementary and middle school; however 98% of students attend senior school. Students must take highly prestigious and meritocratic based exams in order to enter senior school and then university.

From the very early stages of a Japanese student’s life in elementary school right the way through to employment, one very important idea that closely interlinks with the development of the soul and mind is unity and conformity. This is designed to help students, and later on employees, to work together and succeed as a group rather than as an individual like we are taught in the west.

Although, over the last decade a greater emphasis has been put on the development of a student’s individuality, traditionally it has always been about selflessness and conforming to the group.

This is clearly demonstrated even from the early stages of the child’s education. Japanese elementary classes, for example, are divided into small teams for various activities. Every day the children in their designated groups are taught to clean the classrooms, halls and yards of their schools. The students are then made to have lunch together with their teachers in the classrooms, enjoying meals prepared by either the school or the local lunch centre. Small teams of students then take turns to serve lunch to their classmates in order to help promote this sense of selflessness and unity.

One thing that always struck me as extraordinary was the level of independence that these young students had with regards to going to and from school. Children who go to public schools go to the school in their local district. Since most school districts are small, school buses usually aren’t used (except for field trips) and parents don’t drive their children, instead they walk to and from school. In Tokyo, this takes about 5 to 15 minutes.

Many either walk or ride bicycles if the distance is not too great. In other cases, students must take public buses and trains, often changing lines several times in order to reach their destination.

It is not uncommon for students to spend two or more hours each day on public transportation. The school day begins at 8:30, so students may leave

schools

home as early as 6:30 in the morning. While some students sleep or study during their long commute, others see public transportation as an opportunity to socialise with their peers.

For as long as I could remember, I couldn’t for the life of me figure out why each station had its own little theme tune to it. I actually found it quite irritating at first, thinking it was some sort of silly little Japanese gimmick. However, for the first time I finally realised what it was for when I saw this child on the underground suddenly wake to the sound of his station theme tune, as if coming out of hypnosis, prompting him to get off at his stop.

These theme tunes were actually put in place on the trains in order to help remind young students what stop they should get off at, as most of the station names are too advanced for them to read at that age.

What you have read so far may lead you to believe that academia and social development in Japan takes precedence, however this is certainly not the case. As most of us already know and as a part of the isshindoutai, “one in mind, body and soul” notion, “one cannot have a healthy mind without a healthy body”, and vice versa. The children I saw at the schools I visited had four hours of scheduled PE lessons a week, mainly gymnastics and team sports, such as football, basketball and judo. They had annual fitness tests and were under pressure from teachers to push themselves as hard as they could. Most Japanese parents were brought up on this disciplined approach and find it normal. Also, nearly all pupils had to attend sports clubs, before or after school and at the weekends. Baseball clubs for example are very popular among boys and Judo, the national sport of Japan, is also very popular among boys and girls. They may be inspired by many great Japanese Judo athletes that win gold medals at the world Judo championships and Olympic Games. Other popular sports include tennis, gymnastics, basketball and volleyball where many matches are held between schools.

Since my time travelling it has become apparent to me that the lessons we learn from foreign nationals are absolutely vital, whether we believe them to be right or wrong. This I feel is because we can provide ourselves with the ability to question our own methods. So maybe there is something that we can learn from the Japanese in order to improve the quality of our children’s lives.

bridge

With UK Bridge Guru Paul Mendelson

As the winter winds wail around Wimbledon, sensible folk are happy around a green baize-covered table in front of the fire. Tea awaits the conclusion of this deal, but will the declarer be able to enjoy her Battenburg cake with a clear conscience?

North

S AQ5

H 987

D Q9642 C 86 West East S 832 S J1097 H 42 H 653 D 975 D KJ10 C AQ1053 C K97 South

S K64

H AKQJ10 D A3 C J42 N E S W NB NB 1H NB 2H NB 4H West has no obvious lead and, when your opponents have bid only one suit, a trump is often best, so West opted for 2h. When South saw the dummy, she felt that her contract was assured if she could ruff a club in dummy so, when she won trick one, she immediately led a club. East won and returned another trump and, when South played a second club, West won and led her final heart, leaving dummy without a trump, and the declarer a trick short.

Once South realises that she will lose the race to trump a club, she must consider an alternative route - and there is one good chance remaining: to set up a diamond trick.

She wins trick one and plays Ad and a low one, losing to East. Whatever is returned, declarer wins, crosses to dummy with Qs and ruffs a diamond in hand. When both opponents follow, the two remaining diamonds in dummy are winners. Declarer draws all the trumps, crosses to the table with As and discards losers from her hand on dummy’s d96. Her tea is now well-earned...

aceoftrumps.com darlingmagazine.co.uk | feb-march 2012

43

Creating Connections Inspiring Success

Wimbledon, Putney, Balham, Kingston, Surbiton, Streatham and Hampton Court COLLECT COPIES AT OUR “HOTSPOTS” EMAIL julie@theathenanetwork.com

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points of view

STORM IN A COFFEE CUP

By Kate Greenhalgh

I

s there any greater pleasure in life than the conviviality of having guests to stay?

In the case of friends, ties are strengthened which bind them even closer to the family, and in the case of relatives, a domestic intimacy is revived and renewed. A household is warmed and heartened when visitors come to stay; a valued mutual affection is celebrated and enjoyed.

Except, that is, when they use my coffee machine.

Let me tell you about her. She is called Nancy. She is Italian.

She once went out with a famous football manager. She is extremely temperamental. You must not mess with Nancy. I love Nancy with an intense passion.

Life is not worth living without her, and yet she is cruel, vain and capricious. Her little LED screen spits insults when you try to coax a cappuccino from her, (“mio latte non e coronata, puttana!”); she sulks; she spends half her life in the equivalent of The Priory for coffee machines.

Nancy. Instead, they were jabbing her touch control screen with their fingers, demanding latte after latte, chatting and laughing impudently. I do not queue for my own coffee machine. Nancy does not do bulk orders. She is a beanto-cup artist. It was one of those moments when you can feel your blood curdle, and a maelstrom of emotions overwhelms you hatred, horror, revulsion, outrage.

I looked at Nancy and she looked at me. We both knew what was coming.

So imagine how it felt, coming down one morning to worship at her espresso nozzle, to find a queue of students jostling around her, guests of my daughter?

Did they not know the house rule? When I enter the kitchen in my curlers and dressing gown, scowling, there must be silence and a path must clear immediately between me and

“Basta! Macchiato tua madre, che cazzo!” her little screen blazed. “Step away from the coffee machine!” I screamed simultaneously. There was an appalling silence. Nancy shut down with a strangulated gurgle, months of rehab and therapy in prospect. My daughter’s friends melted away, mortified. I slumped to the floor.

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“Life is not worth living without her, and yet she is cruel, vain and capricious”

It’s all ok now. Nancy was home in time for Christmas, although she had a little relapse on Boxing Day. All my delightful guests, whom I absolutely love having to stay, know which cupboard I keep the Nescafe in. After all, if there’s one thing that you must do to ensure a good visit, and something that all guests should know, it’s avoid upsetting the house Prima Donna.

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