Your magazine (Christmas 2012) by Hammersmith & Fulham Council

Fulham•Hammersmith•Shepherds Bush

FURY AS NHS IGNORES 66,000 SIGNATURES FROM 18 LOCAL PETITIONS OVER CHARING CROSS A&E CLOSURE Pages 4-5

MERRY CHRISTMAS! Taylor Swift and more in our seasonal guide Pages 5, 39, 42&43

Behind you! Lyric panto sees Cinderella long for Hammersmith Palais Pages 40-41

Download it – page 32

NEW APP keeps the streets clean Page 69

Issue 8 WINTER 2012 Your magazine December 2012 cover.indd 1

Win ticketS!

To squash finals at The Queen’s Club Page 68

Partners

04/12/2012 12:28

YOUR MAGS Page 2 Chelsea FC AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 13:47:42

ISSUE 8 – DECEMBER 2012

WELCOME

Contents 4-5

66,000 names ignored Fury over ‘sham’ consultation on future of A&Es

40-41 Cover story

Lyric is doubling in size £16.5m rebuilding project is now underway

Portas cash to help shops West Ken gets boost to reinvigorate area

Will Cinders get to the ball on time? It would be a crime if she didn’t...

Wind blamed for jet noise

14-15

BAA makes bizarre excuse as complaints soar

Ofsted gives 100% mark H&F secondary schools are top of the class

Town hall plan’s height limit

Radical rethink in wake of consultation

Strictly stars take to floor TV dancers welcome new class venue

How to survive Christmas Help the planet before, during and after festivities

Stink pipe ‘life sentence’

50-51

Controversial tunnel means £5,000 lifetime bill

Hungry? Have a Brazilian! Eat-all-you-can eatery where the food keeps coming

PUBLISHED BY Hammersmith & Fulham Council www.lbhf.gov.uk

The fight to lay Kylie’s rug

EDITOR Geoff Cowart 020 8753 6597 Email: geoff.cowart@lbhf.gov.uk

Fitters battle for the right to carpet star’s home

PRODUCTION EDITOR Tim Harrison Email: tim.harrison@lbhf.gov.uk ADVERTISING John Naylor 07768 440 987 Email: john.naylor@lbhf.gov.uk DESIGN Chris Chapman, Don Smith & Alison Tilley Email: designhammerprint@lbhf.gov.uk DISCLAIMER: We thank our advertisers for supporting Your Magazine, but H&F Council does not accept responsibility for goods or services offered by advertisers.

72-73

59 53

In-depth

24-25

25 Blythe Road

The intriguing tale of the borough auction house which is challenging the belief that bidding for paintings is only the preserve of the super-rich

SPORT

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Fulham’s George Groves up for his biggest fight 69

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YOUR MAGS Page 3 index.indd 1

03/12/2012 11:35:22

NEWS

Fury as ‘sham’ hospital consultation ignores 66,000 signatures on 18 petitions

NHS belongs to everyone! ‘The problem is that NHS NW London have no grasp of the real problem. If they did, they would not propose this as the “solution”. The truth is that these plans will lead to a meltdown of care in NW London and patients will suffer as a result’ Matt Dunckley ‘What should we expect? It was a foregone conclusion that the residents’ petition would be ignored [by NHS]’ Janet Priddle ‘I am appalled by the idea of closure of the A&E department at Charing Cross Hospital. I am severely disabled and the thought of not having easy access to a hospital could be fatal to me.’ Donald Gray-Raus ‘The potential running down and closure of Charing Cross Hospital could be disastrous for the area with more homes and businesses on the way.’ Jon Halse ‘I have a heart condition which also puts me in danger of a stroke. I do not want to have to travel through heavy traffic to a hospital such as Chelsea & Westminster. ’ Lynda Harris

Have 66,000 protests been brushed aside in A&E hospital ‘consultation’?

he voices of 66,000 west London residents have been ignored in a sham consultation designed to justify hospital closures. The flawed consultation results on NHS North West London’s plans to close A&E services in four London hospitals have been greeted with a wave of anger and disbelief in west London. More than 66,000 signatures included on 18 petitions have only been counted as 18 responses. Despite a vociferous campaign by residents’ groups and local councils, NHS North West London (NWL) has tried to claim majority support for its preferred option to close services. Now H&F Council is vowing to continue its battle to protect local health services saying this is another nail in the coffin for Charing Cross that will eventually lead to the closure of the site. H&F Council leader Nicholas Botterill says: “It is outrageous that the voices of 66,000 people have

been silenced. Nobody should be in any doubt that the long-term strategy is the closure of Charing Cross itself. We will do everything we can to protect the site and the hospital’s future. This includes potentially challenging the decision with the Secretary of State. He added: “NHS NWL may try to silence our residents – but we will make sure that their voices continue to be heard loud and clear. We will do everything possible to save our hospitals.” The consultation cost taxpayers £7million and, despite being branded a ‘sham’ and ‘fundamentally flawed’, the results now threaten the future of Charing Cross and Hammersmith hospitals. Former NHS chief executive Timothy Rideout spelt out a series of major concerns with the consultation earlier this year. Describing the business case as ‘unsafe’, Mr Rideout criticised a failure to explore alternatives to A&E closures and a failure to independently verify the costs.

But NHS NWL is using its flawed consultation to justify its predetermined preferred option of closing four out of nine A&E units. The council is warning that if Charing Cross A&E is shut, parts of the site will be sold off for redevelopment, eventually leading to the closure of the whole hospital. A coalition of local politicians, angry residents and neighbouring councils have led the campaign against the NHS NWL plans by claiming: l GPs have publicly stated their opposition to the closure of two A&E units in the borough (Charing Cross and Hammersmith Hospital) as they are not yet ready to provide the alternative care that will be needed. l Ambulance journey times to overstretched out-of-borough A&Es will increase dramatically – potentially endangering lives, especially for victims of stroke. l If the current NHS proposals go ahead, the remaining A&Es would be severely overstretched as they

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YOUR MAGS Pages 4-5 Save our hospitals xmas etc.indd 1

03/12/2012 12:00:44

NEWS on Don’t miss Xmas events! More page 39>>

Drop by and create a festive wreath THE annual Christmas wreath-making session organised by the Hammersmith Community Garden Association takes place in Ravenscourt Park Greenhouse on Saturday December 8. As well as wreaths, the festive day will see pine cones, cinnamon sticks and other natural materials used for decorations. No need to book, drop in any time between 10am and 3pm. Suggested donation, £5 per wreath.

To join the fight, visit:

www.savecharingcross.com

Carols and band tunes on bill for the Fulham Brass IT’S one concert you’re guaranteed not to sleep through! Fulham Brass Band are holding a free Christmas Concert on Sunday December 9 at 7.30pm in St John’s Church, Fulham Broadway. The band, which was formed in 1895, will play a mix of carols and traditional brass band pieces. Rob Richardson conducts. Refreshments will be served and there will be a raffle.

Primary schools are spruced up

asks Rob Mansfield would need to cater for nearly 400,000 people each – at least 50 per cent more than the national average. l No evidence has been provided that moving Charing Cross services to Chelsea & Westminster Hospital would improve patient outcomes. l With thousands of new homes and jobs coming to the borough, the borough needs more local health care capacity, not less. H&F Council has been warning residents for years that Charing Cross is being systematically downgraded. In December 2010, the vascular surgery ward at Charing Cross was closed, apparently because of a severe infection outbreak. All vascular surgery was moved to St Mary’s, Paddington, where it remains, apparently permanently. There was no public consultation on the move and no clinical evidence presented to support the permanent move. In 2009, Charing Cross was overlooked as the major trauma

A protester makes his feelings clear at the recent town hall public meeting on the NHS plans (main picture); Emanuel Simon and his dad Carlos Louisy campaign (top, right) and Cllr Nicholas Botterill (above) stresses his opposition to proposals PICTUREs BY LEIGH QUINNELL

centre for the area and all six of Charing Cross’ world-famous neurosurgeons were forced to provide an on-call service at both St Mary’s and Charing Cross without consultation. If Charing Cross is stripped of its A&E it could free up lots of room for residential redevelopment, the council says. Charing Cross is owned by Imperial College NHS Trust, which historically has been one of the most indebted trusts in London. The trust would pocket the cash from a sale or redevelopment of any part of the Charing Cross site if it secures foundation status. Cllr Botterill added: “There is a growing suspicion that Charing Cross is being drained of life so that Imperial can sell off parts of this extremely valuable site and plug the black hole in its finances. “NHS bureaucrats are putting the improvement of their balance sheet before the improvement of residents’ health and we are going to fight them all the way.”

THE West Six Garden Centre is, as usual, supporting the community by donating Christmas trees to primary schools in Ravenscourt Park, and making a donation to Trees for Cities, a charity which inspires people to plant and ‘adopt’ trees in London. The centre Ravenscourt Avenue, W6 (020 8563 7112) stocks non-drop Nordmann trees and Norway spruces as well as Noble firs, all available as cut trees, and in pots.

Shaking all over at Music House event AN ENCHANTING Christmas story is being acted out by the young members of the Music House for Children in Shepherds Bush. And they are spending an hour before the show making the props and bean shakers that will be used in the performance. The action starts at Bush Hall, 306 Uxbridge Road, W12 on Thursday December 20. Make and Shake takes place from 10-11am (three to eights), £8, while the show itself starts at 11.30am. Adults £7, children £6, under 1s free. Call 020 8932 2652 or visit: www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

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YOUR MAGS Pages 4-5 Save our hospitals xmas etc.indd 2

03/12/2012 12:02:08

FULHAM FOOTBALL CLUB, CRAVEN COTTAGE

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YOUR MAGS Page 6 Fulham FC AD.indd 1

03/12/2012 10:50:13

The new stage for the Lyric looks bright

NEWS

Lyric chief Jessica Hepburn’s smile ushers in the start of the scheme that will double the theatre’s space PORTRAIT BY DAVID TETT

DESPITE THESE DIFFICULT ECONOMIC TIMEs, A SERIOUS EFFORT TO ENGAGE YOUNG PEOPLE THROUGH THE ARTS IS UNDERWAY, Writes TIM HARRISON

he Lyric theatre is always producing ground-breaking drama, but it recently broke new ground of its own. The great and the good gathered to mark a start on a £16.5million expansion scheme to turn the Hammersmith venue into a ‘teaching theatre for the arts’. One hundred artistic movers and shakers, luvvies, politicians and funders celebrated the beginning of work on the ambitious two-storey extension which will include a dance studio, film and TV studio, drama studio, cinema and recording studio. Funding has come from public donations, the Arts Council, government sources and, significantly, H&F Council, which was praised inspire generations of young people,” said Cllr for continuing to back the project in these Botterill. “Combined with the emerging plans to difficult economic days. Arts Council director Moira Sinclair told H&F breathe new life into the rundown area around the town hall, and other projects along King Street, Council leader Cllr Nicholas Botterill: “I can’t this could be the start of the rebirth of imagine how tough it’s been for you in this Hammersmith town centre.” climate, but you’ve kept faith with this project.” Constructed next to the existing theatre, above Cllr Botterill described the concept as ‘a new Mothercare in King Street, the development will type of cultural establishment’, adding: “We double the Lyric’s existing have teaching hospitals, but this space and will include a is going to be a teaching theatre 60-seat preview cinema for for the arts.” film-making students, a dance The key to the project is studio with a sprung floor, an developing west London’s artists’ greenroom and young people via drama and sound-proof rehearsal and arts, with around 7,000 students practice rooms. using the new facilities every The design (which has a year once the building green planted roof) was opens in February 2014. Lyric’s panto returns created by Rick Mather “The Lyric is already – so expect to have Architects, the firm far more than a theatre a real ball! SEE PAGE 40 responsible for the £60m and this will help

OH YES SHE IS!

expansion of Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum. The Lyric’s executive director Jessica Hepburn told the gathering that the project would include renovation of the existing theatre space – the first major facelift the building has had in three decades. “We’re committed to the work we do with children and young people,” she said. “This is a special place where they feel welcome and inspired, becoming motivated, confident and skilled individuals. Together we’re about to change the landscape of Hammersmith, and the lives of thousands of people.” A slogan on the white side wall of the bar area at the Lyric now proclaims: Our New Extension Will Be Through Here. Invited guests at the ground-breaking event were entertained by the young cast of the Lyric’s Christmas show Cinderella, who performed the frantic song-anddance act that opens the show’s second act. l Donations are still needed to equip the new space. For details, visit: www.lyric.co.uk

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YOUR MAGS Page 7 NEWS lyric.indd 1

02/12/2012 13:50:52

NEWS

Olympic hero brings a golden touch to Brook Green playground London Olympics winner Tom James returns to the area where he used to play as a child

Works start to upgrade park play equipment at four more sites

ODEN PLAY HOUSES SANDPIT, SWINGS AND WO BROOK GREEN’S NEW AT PROVE A POPULAR DRAW Writes JON WEISGARD ND, ADVENTURE PLAYGROU

ondon 2012 gold medal-winning rower Tom James went back to his roots when he officially opened the new Brook Green adventure playground. The double Olympic champion used to play on Brook Green, Hammersmith, as a child, and mixed with local schoolchildren at the opening event. The playground features activities for children of all ages. For the under-fives, there is a sandpit, swings, a bouncy castle and wooden play houses. Older children can enjoy a climbing web, a climbing wall,

rocks, two mounds linked by a bridge and a stream going into a larger sandpit. The playground cost more than £200,000, with H&F Council and the Friends of Brook Green both contributing in the region of £100,000. Speaking at the event, Tom James said: “This is really exciting. When I was invited down to open the playground I had no idea what to expect, but it’s fantastic. “It’s great that the community and the council have come together to make this a reality. “I used to play here when I was

l H&F Council has already stated work installing the new play equipment at Wendell Park (pictured left), Shepherds Bush Green and Lillie Road recreation ground. And work at Eel Brook Common in Fulham starts next week and all three playgrounds are expected to have been completed by the new year. At a combined cost of £200,000, all three parks will get new play surfacing and grass areas. Wendell Park will also benefit from a new slide, swings, an activity net, a seesaw, hammock, and a roundabout. JW

a child and I hope that all these children will get as much enjoyment as I did out of the area.” H&F Council deputy leader Greg Smith said: “This playground is the result of localism in action. “The Friends of Brook Green is a dynamic and proactive group of people who want to change their neighbourhood for the better, and have gone out and done just that.”

Susannah Frieze, of the Friends of Brook Green, is still thinking ahead. “Now that we’ve got the playground re-designed, landscaped and beautifully fitted out, we will move on to consulting residents and workers, awarenessraising and fundraising for a new pavilion and improving the lighting, security and amenities of this beautiful corner of Hammersmith,” she said.

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YOUR MAGS Page 8 NEWS Brook Green re-opens.indd 1

02/12/2012 13:55:32

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02/12/2012 13:56:08

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02/12/2012 13:57:05

NEWS

New Oyster card for inbetweenies

West Ken traders say £10k boost to area is good news

A NEW Oyster card for over 60s has been launched to bridge the gap before the government’s freedom pass kicks in. The 60+ Oyster photocard was one of London Mayor Boris Johnson’s pledges, restoring free travel on buses, tubes, overground and trams after the lower age limit for the existing seniors’ pass was raised to 61 to mirror new retirement ages. Samantha Mauger, chief executive of Age UK London, said: “For many people, getting a freedom pass is one of the best things about getting older.” Apply at: www.tfl.gov.uk/60pluslondon

Council battles to keep bridge free for everyone

Kiri Pegasiou, owner of West Kensington’s Deli Bar, is backing the Mary Portas (below) scheme to boost high streets

TfL says that it is looking into new options and says it will not make any decision without consulting the council and residents.

Job passport plan will assist pupils

MARY PORTAS GRANT CASH SHOULD MEAN FEWER EMPTY SHOPS IN THE HIGH STREET, Writes ROB MANSFIELD raders in West Kensington and North End Road are hoping for a boost in business after the Government awarded a £10,000 grant to help reinvigorate empty shop units in the area. The cash windfall has been awarded to the recently formed West Kensington Partnership of local businesses who worked with the council to become a town team partner – which is part of the Mary Portas initiative to regenerate the UK’s high streets. There are currently a number of vacant units in West Kensington, which some traders and residents believe blight the area and keep customers away. The money will be spent bringing some of these premises back into use through short lease opportunities such as pop-up shops, community schemes and attractive window dressing. The first task will be to make contact with local landlords who can

A row rumbles on between Transport for London and people who may be stopped from using a footbridge at Kensington (Olympia) rail station. TfL wants to install ticket barriers at the entrances on both side of the station, stopping anyone not using the train from crossing the bridge – despite the fact that hundreds of people use it each day as a public right of way, and have done for more than 50 years. H&F Council is championing the cause to allow residents continued access to the bridge, and has successfully forced TfL into looking at alternative ways to keep the pathway open, but also stop commuters from evading fares.

also benefit from the scheme. Currently, an average of 20 shops close on Britain’s high streets every day. One in six premises is now believed to be empty across the UK. One local trader backing the scheme, Kiri Pegasiou, who owns The Deli Bar in Charleville Road, said: “Empty shops are bad for business and it demoralises residents and discourages visitors. I have a shop next to me and one immediately opposite which have been empty for over seven years. This will be a great start to bringing back pride to our high street.” Other partnership members include the W14 community site (www.w14london.ning. com) and local business Ministry of Thrift. l For more details, call Nicki Burgess on 020 8753 5695 or email: nicki. burgess@lbhf.gov.uk

Pupils as young as 12 would be taught employment skills in a ground-breaking new scheme to give give pupils a ‘jobs passport’ when they leave education. Based in six local secondary schools, the scheme would involve 3,500 pupils over two years to dramatically reduce youth unemployment. The new passport would demonstrate to prospective employers their skills and abilities. As part of the scheme young people would be given mock interviews, CV training and would be encouraged to volunteer. Young people that are considered a higher risk of becoming a Neet (Not in Education, Employment or Training) would receive more intensive help. The proposals have been submitted to government by H&F, Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster City councils. H&F Council leader Nicholas Botterill said: “Our aim is to ensure that every young person leaving education is job-ready.” Across the three council areas, more than half of the 4,700 unemployed 16 to 23-year-olds have been without work for six months or more.

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YOUr MAGS Page 11 NEWS West Ken traders and jobs.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:00:24

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02/12/2012 14:02:19

NEWS

Heathrow bosses say ‘wrong kind of wind’ to blame for noise trouble

September. This has meant that planes have had to fly more regularly over west London.” Planes land and take off into the wind for safety reasons and – as the wind mainly blows from the west off the Atlantic – EZY BRE T’S this means that aircraft usually POR AIR TO ON CTI FURIOUS REA make their final approach to S Heathrow over central London RESPONSE TO RESIDENTS’ COMPLAINT R OVE and Hammersmith & Fulham. ABOUT INCREASED AIRCRAFT NOISE On a typical day, around IELD 665 aircraft fly over the WEST LONDON, writes ROB MANSF borough with the earliest starting at 4.20am and flights in 200 than more from – massive spike in cent to a spike of around 1,800 continuing throughout the day, June Heathrow at intervals of about one every to in August – according aircraft noise 90 seconds, until around official BAA statistics. complaints midnight. BAA ed prob ors ncill Cou H&F cabinet member is due to ‘the wrong in ase incre ive about the mass Victoria Brocklebank-Fowler kind of wind’, according complaints, suspecting that said: “Blaming the wrong wind to airport bosses. they may be due to the was claim rre biza direction for a 900 per cent The relaxation of runway rules increase in Heathrow noise made by representatives h whic trial g under a continuin complaints is like blaming the of Heathrow Airport to ator allows the airport oper wrong leaves on the line when owner BAA, which runways simultaneously use into ed the trains are delayed. was haul under certain conditions. “If a bit of wind can Hammersmith Town of tor direc However, BAA dramatically increase the noise Hall last month to face a airside Tim Hardy kicked up a hell that west London residents barrage of questions storm by claiming: “The and rs cillo endure then it proves that the coun from significant increase in noise UK’s main hub airport is in the angry residents. to due ably prob complaints is wrong place. The number of had e the unusual weather we’v ”It makes no sense for complaints about seen 90 per has h whic ntly rece thousands of planes to roar aircraft noise over west cent of wind coming from the over densely populated areas, London has rocketed west between July and by more than 900 per

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YOUR MAGS Pages 14-15 Heathrow NO.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:05:44

NEWS

Far left, third runway protester Alan Haughton outside the Royal Courts of Justice

AIRPORT NOISE POLL

where millions of people live, when they could be making their final approach over water if the airport was to the east of London.” H&F Council has consistently argued that a third runway, or any other form of expansion, at Heathrow would bring extra noise hell for residents, more air pollution would put further pressure on overstretched roads and public transport in the area and still not create a fit-for-purpose hub airport. After the town hall meeting, Fiona Evans, from Parsons Green Lane, Fulham, said: “The noise is terrible on my street. “Where are the noise monitors to measure the decibel levels? I am inviting BAA to come to my home and experience the aircraft noise that I am enduring at 4.30am.” Banim Road, Hammersmith, resident Tom Lambert added: “It is a basic human right to be able to sleep in one’s own bed at night. “Sleep deprivation is a massive quality of life issue in west London and I don’t know many people who enjoy being woken up at 4.30am, whatever

Has Heathrow’s trial of relaxed runway rules affected you? Have you noticed more aircraft noise? YES

76.93%

23.07%

.gov.uk: 1,344 Total respondents to survey on www.lbhf

“

I’m inviting BAA to my home to experience the aircraft noise I’m enduring at 4.30am

the so-called benefits to BAA.” H&F Council is part of the 2M campaign group that blocked, in the High Court in 2010, a previous plan to expand Heathrow. The 2M Group argues that a third runway at Heathrow would do little to ensure new connections to emerging markets in China and elsewhere since there would be nothing to stop airlines using the fresh

runway slots to fly to existing, more profitable, locations rather than new, higher-risk destinations. In their response to the gvernment’s draft aviation policy framework, the councils said: “The choice of where planes fly to is made by neither the airport owner nor the government. It is made by the airlines who will naturally prioritise the more profitable routes.” The government has etablished an independent commission to examine the UK’s airport capacity. Led by Sir Howard Davies, former chairman of the Financial Services Authority, it is not expected to publish its final conclusions until 2015, after the next general election. But the 2M group of councils are calling for Heathrow to be ruled out of the process, allowing the decision to be brought forward and easing uncertainty over the airport’s future. Residents, who are disturbed by aircraft noise, should respond directly to Heathrow owner BAA by visiting: www. heathrowairport.com/noise or call 0800 344 844 or email: noise_complaints@baa.com

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YOUR MAGS Pages 14-15 Heathrow NO.indd 2

02/12/2012 14:06:21

WIN! FREE TICKETS TO SQUASH FINALS AT QUEEN’S CLUB! TOP 16 PLAYERS CLASH IN WORLD SERIES SQUASH FINALS 2-6 JANUARY l SEE PAGE 68

Free school chairman pledges to open another new school every year A ‘FEEDER’ PRIMARY IS NEXT FOR EDUCATION TRUST HEAD TOBY YOUNG, WITH THE PROMISE OF FURTHER NEW ADDITIONS, Writes DELYTH BOWEN

est London Free School has launched a consultation into its proposed new primary school. The free school, in Cambridge Grove, is set to open its junior version for children aged three to 11 in September 2013. The school is now seeking views on the proposals from parents, local residents, community groups and anyone who has an interest in it. The consultation, which began in November, remains open until 5pm on December 31. Like the current secondary school, the primary will offer children a classical liberal education, focusing on a core of academic subjects along with art, music, drama and competitive sport. It will also serve as a feeder school to the secondary, so pupils at the primary will be given priority for a place there. A joint-school sibling policy means that children applying to the secondary who have siblings at the

primary will be given priority, and vice versa. H&F Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, Cllr Helen Binmore, said: “This council has always supported parental choice when it comes to deciding where they send their children to school. “The free school has proved hugely popular with parents, and this primary will provide the borough with much-needed school places and add to the wide range of schools we have in the borough.” The Hammersmithbased secondary school plans to move to its new site in the refurbished Palingswick House, King Street, next

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YOUR MAGS Page 16 NEWS schools consult.indd 1

The West London Free School could open a new primary school in Hammersmith. Toby Young and his son, below

September, while the Cambridge Grove site will become the primary school. Toby Young, chairman of the West London Free School charitable trust, said: “I helped set up the West London Free School because I believe that all children should have access to a classical

“

Our approach is so popular with parents, our aim is to open a new school every year

liberal education, regardless of background or ability. That approach has proved so popular with local parents that my group is now opening a second school and our aim is to open a new one every year for as long as this government remains in power.” West London Free School has proved to be the most oversubscribed secondary school in the borough this year, with nine applicants for every place. Anyone wanting to take part in the consultation can complete a questionnaire online at: https:// www.westlondonfreeschool.co. uk/primary-school/consultation. html or can complete one of the consultation leaflets being distributed in the borough.

02/12/2012 14:10:18

London Oratory pupils Patrick Kearney, Patrick Keefe and Julian Vallender pick up their GCSE results

NEWS

Secondary schools ranked top of the class in England, says Ofsted report council praises hard work to steadily improve standards, Writes DELYTH BOWEN

econdary schools in Hammersmith & Fulham are the best in the country, according to a recent report. Ofsted, the official body for inspecting schools, released figures showing that all pupils in the borough – 100 per cent – attend ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ secondary schools. The borough is one of only nine out of 151 English local authorities to achieve this feat – with five of those being London boroughs. H&F cabinet member Helen Binmore said: “It has been a joint effort to raise standards in our schools over the past few years and to make them places where our children, no matter what their background or circumstances, can get a first-class education and learn skills that are vital for their future and development. “I am absolutely thrilled that our schools are getting the recognition they deserve and that our young people are getting the most out of their time in school.” The improvement in schools in H&F has been

significant – in 2006, six out of eight secondary schools were deemed to be good or outstanding, with four out of five (81 per cent) of pupils attending a good or outstanding school. This is now at 100 per cent. The annual report also shows that schools in the capital are better than the national average. Eighty per cent of London’s secondary schools are now good or outstanding compared to 66 per cent nationally. And 69 per cent of the poorest children in the capital go to good schools, compared to 45 per cent in the South East. Ofsted’s primary school figures also show that H&F is in the top 20 per cent of schools, coming 29th out of 151 local authorities. Twentyeight out of 34 primary schools in the borough are deemed good or outstanding by Ofsted inspectors, with 79 per cent of pupils attending a good or outstanding school. The report also shows that 83 per cent of all schools in the borough are good or outstanding, making H&F the ninth best in London.

Tinchy Stryder performs under the bright lights of Fulham’s Under the Bridge club l TINCH me! I must be dreaming. East London rapper Tinchy Stryder wowed the sell-out crowd at Fulham’s Under the Bridge last month. The appearance of 26year-old grime artist Tinchy at the intimate 550-capacity club tucked under the foundations at Stamford Bridge

featured a few tracks from his forthcoming fourth album Full Tank (set to be released next year), including new single Help Me, as well as chart-rumblers Spaceship and Bright Lights. But the most unexpected moment of the evening was Tinchy’s sing-a-long rendition of Oasis tune Wonderwall. GC

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02/12/2012 14:12:58

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03/12/2012 11:02:56

NEWS

Hammersmith Town Hall dressed smartly for Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation in June 1953

Plans to ‘breathe new life’ into King Street revised with residents in mind NEW PROPOSALS FOR AREA AROUND HAMMERSMITH TOWN HALL ARE UNVEILED AS COUNCIL AIMS TO BOOST LOCAL TRADERS AND LISTEN TO RESIDENTS, WRITES ROB MANSFIELD

revised proposal to regenerate the rundown area around Hammersmith Town Hall has been unveiled. As part of the updated scheme to breathe new life into the west end of King Street, H&F Council says it now requires half the amount of office space than previously needed due to a combination of more flexible working and cost-cutting. Reductions in council spending, outsourcing of some services and different working procedures have driven down the council’s need for office space while combining some services with neighbouring Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea have cut senior and middle manager numbers by nearly 50 per cent.

The council signalled a radical rethink of the regeneration plans in June when the new council leader, Cllr Nicholas Botterill, announced an eight-storey height limit on any new buildings. And now the council has gone further by outlining a new set of parameters for the scheme – which the council’s development partner, King Street Developments Ltd (KSD), is using to work up new design ideas for consultation with residents. Some key components of the proposals remain, including the creation of a new public square, opening up the historic northern facade of the Grade II-listed town hall building while improving access and building new homes and retail/restaurant space. The new brief also now includes:

l A cast-iron guarantee that the tallest building in the new brief will not be higher than the current town hall extension (equivalent to eight residential storeys) l The creation of a £1million regeneration fund for improvements to buildings in this stretch of King Street l Halving the replacement council office space requirement from the previous scheme to around 45,000 square feet l No bridge over the A4 Talgath Road into Furnivall Gardens l Considering the option to include a cinema within the scheme l No need for the relocation of Thomas Pocklington tenants l Exploring the inclusion of buildings to the north of the town hall next to King Street, flanking the new public square l Reconsidering the architectural approach to the design. Cllr Botterill said: “We have listened and learned from the less popular elements of the previous

scheme and updated the brief. “We are now working closely with our development partners and their architects to help breathe much-needed life into this rundown part of our town centre.” Award-winning local architects Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands have been appointed by KSD, and a series of meetings and consultation events with residents will be announced in the coming months allowing the developers to explain the design ideas for the site and listen to the views of local people. David Walters of KSD said: “We have carried out an extensive review of the original scheme with the architects in light of the new parameters issued by the council and we are ready to discuss some early, emerging ideas for a revised development. Our aim is to deliver an appropriate, high-quality, viable regeneration scheme for King Street and we hope that these initial meetings will be the first steps to achieving this.”

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YOUR MAGS Page 21 NEWS King Street.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:16:53

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02/12/2012 14:17:28

NEWS The River Cafe in Hammersmith raised a glass to 25 years of culinary heights – with a ferris wheel. Inset below, Charles Pullan, Richard Rogers, Joseph Trivelli, Vashti Armit, Ruth Rogers and Sian Wynowen

After 25 years Hammersmith’s River Cafe is now the stuff of culinary legends – and throws a glittering bash to celebrate...

astebuds were in party mood at Hammersmith’s legendary River Cafe as it celebrated 25 years of cooking up a storm this autumn. The star-studded party, which included Jamie Oliver as a special guest, also featured a ferris wheel, jazz band, champagne, hand-made ice cream, a barbeque and a visit from big-name UK wine merchant Charles Lea (of Lea & Sandeman). River Cafe founder Ruth Rogers paid tribute in a speech to her cofounder Rose Gray, who passed away in 2010 after battling cancer. Oliver, who posted a picture of the party from the top of the carousel on Twitter, said: “Thank you Rose we all miss you & Ruthie you are a legend! All your kindness & inspiration, there are no words to explain what you have given me and so many chefs that have passed through your kitchen love #jamie.” Geoff Cowart

Animals and children are beneficiaries of mayor’s charity year NEVER work with children or animals used to be standard theatrical advice... but Hammersmith & Fulham’s mayor is making an exception. Cllr Belinda Donovan is supporting The Mayhew Animal Home and West London Action for Children as her chosen charities for her year in office, and recently held a fundraising evening with entertainment at Lala Brasserie in Hammersmith.

West London Action for Children is a local charity offering counselling and therapy services for children in need, and their families. It supports families under stress to develop their confidence and skills to cope with all challenges of family life, including bereavement, domestic violence, abuse, poverty and isolation. The Mayhew Animal Home was established in 1886 and

is one of the busiest animal welfare organisations in London, helping thousands of dogs, cats, rabbits and other animals escape a life of abandonment, neglect and cruelty each year. More than just a rescue and re-homing centre, The Mayhew offers free and low-cost veterinary services from a community veterinary clinic and provides a range of animal care programmes.

Cllr Donovan said: “These charities do fantastic work in our borough and I am proud to be supporting them this year. The evening was a chance to help the Mayhew and West London Action for Children continue their vital work. It was a success and raised lots of money.” l For details on the mayor’s chosen charities, visit: http://themayhew. org and http://www.wlac.org.uk

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YOUR MAGS Page 23 NEWS River Cafe.indd 1

03/12/2012 10:45:05

NEWS

So what am I bid?

A revolution is taking place in the art world where the traditional hammer fall is being replaced by an online click. Tim Harrison reports from West Kensington’s Blythe Road on the electronic way ahead for auctioneering

omething unusual will happen at the art sale being held this month at the auction house at 25 Blythe Road, West Kensington. No bidder will wave a number in the air, no one will tweak an ear to signal a rise, no one clinging to a telephone in the tense auction room will nod to indicate a late overseas bid, and no auctioneer will ask “All done?” before banging a gavel on a battered desk. Instead, the sale of British and continental paintings will take place entirely online. Bids will be electronically processed, lots will simultaneously appear on screens from Los Angeles to St Petersburg, and invoices will later be dispatched down broadband lines to the new owners of each artwork. The specialist antique auction house, based in part of the old West Ken post office sorting rooms, holds its electronic auction of paintings eight days before Christmas. But haven’t giants Sotheby’s, Bonhams and Christie’s got the

paintings market sewn up? “Sotheby’s may have had The Scream,” said auction house founder Thomas Del Mar, “but in a field like paintings there’s a really good general market too. After all, most people have pictures at home.” Unlike the big names, the intriguing ‘collective’ of auction experts assembled at 25 Blythe Road doesn’t impose low-value thresholds. Objects valued at as little as £30 have been included in the past, but often soar to incredible figures if rival collectors are determined enough. Maritime expert Charles Miller is still chuffed about the £320,000 world record price achieved by a faded union flag flown at the Battle of Trafalgar, while Thomas – the militaria specialist and a nephew of one of the 20th century’s great conductors, Norman Del Mar – marvels at the £210,000 achieved by a copper Ottoman shield last year. Thomas commanded the arms and armour sale which took place a day or two ago. The lots included full suits of armour from the late 16th century,

a Japanese matchlock pistol, assorted rapiers and a magnificent gold-hilted sword which once belonged to a leading European military figure. Surrounded by so many unusual and intricate antique weapons during his working day, I wondered if he ever fired guns himself. “I do shoot,” admitted Thomas. “But I’m a terrible shot!” In the past, militaria sales have included Eskimo knives, guns from the Wild West, a staghornhandled carbine, and a ceremonial Maori club, which fetched £15,000.

“

Sotheby’s may have had The Scream but, after all, most people have pictures at home

As well as Thomas and Charles, the auction house alongside Olympia is also home to Matthew Barton, a silver, porcelain and decorative works expert. Matthew and Thomas worked together at Sotheby’s… and strong links are maintained with the auction house. Charles once ran his own department at Christie’s, South Kensington. “The businesses are owned by the experts, so you have the opportunity to police your own sales,” Thomas explained. The auction house launched in 2007 (“The year we sold a Scottish claymore for a record £250,000”). But while Sotheby’s goes for high-value headline-grabbers, 25 Blythe Road brings antique investment within reach of a much wider public. The paintings sale on December 17, jointly organised by Thomas and George Duckett, will contain many artworks pitched at a level to appeal to general collectors. “We’re swimming with the popular tide,” said Thomas, who

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YOUR MAGS Pages 24-25 Blythe Road antiques.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:20:43

NEWS

NOEL FOR JUST £50? l The auction on December 17 of British and Continental pictures is a chance to acquire paintings for as little as £50... bringing it within the realm of Christmas present buyers. The sale includes a drawing of Noel Coward in the lead of his 1934 drama Conversation Piece (pictured) by the illustrator Robert Stewart Sherriffs. Estimate: £500-700 George Duckett (main picture) will be jointly organising December’s paintings auction – an entirely online affair. Below, Amy Kitchen, who has created a timeline of objects based on lots sold at 25 Blythe Road (far left)

NEXT UP:

l The art sale at 25 Blythe Road takes place on Monday, December 17. Full details, and a history-of-the-world timeline recording notable past objects auctioned at 25 Blythe Road, at: www.25blytheroad.com

YOUR MAGS Pages 24-25 Blythe Road antiques.indd 2

PICTURES BY LEIGH QUINNELL

believes the auction rooms’ location in Hammersmith & Fulham, just a few minutes from the West End, is a real plus. “People want to buy at all levels.” His personal interest in militaria began when he was five. “I was interested in ironworks, explosives and history,” he recalled. “There was a blacksmith just down the road, and at the age of five I asked for an apprenticeship!” From a love of all things metal, and from experimenting with making explosives at the age of eight, developing an expertise in guns, swords and armour was almost inevitable. Is he a collector himself? “I have the odd thing, but I don’t buy in my own sales! “As an auctioneer you need to be very clear on that.” The internet and emails have changed things beyond recognition from Thomas’s early

days in the business in the mid-90s. Then I would receive a pile of post a foot and a half high every week or two! Now it all comes over the web. “We’re not aggressive as a company; we’re quite soft,” he said. “But the internet lets us do sales online. You could be sitting in Australia and take part.” Perhaps eventually all auctions may take place over the internet – a kind of extended, higher-value, collective version of eBay – but for the time being all the other auctions at 25 Blythe Road will remain old-fashioned gavel-banging occasions.

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02/12/2012 14:21:22

Council funded Police

Cracking Down on Crime

101 (non emergency) 999 (emergency)

@MPSHammFul www.lbhf.gov.uk/crime www.met.police.uk

Hammersmith & Fulham Council Pictured: Cllr Greg Smith, H&F Council Deputy Leader, with the Police Borough Commander and officers from the borough's Safer Neighbourhoods Teams.

YOUR MAGS Page 26 Bobbies AD.indd 1 3 $&( <RX UH 2Q 2XU %HDW LQGG

02/12/2012 14:22:25

NEWS

Left, Ch Supt Luci D’Orsi talks to local resident Tony Twiss

Street by street in new blitz on crime NEW ROADSHOWS PROVE POPULAR AS BATTLING ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR GOES LOCAL, Writes ROB MANSFIELD

Community work for benefits cheat A benefit fraudster who did not tell the council that he had savings of almost £70,000 has been handed a suspended sentence. Richard Smith, 48, of Carnwath Road, south Fulham, had been receiving housing benefit and council tax benefit since June 2004 on the basis he was too ill to work and had no savings. However, an investigation by H&F Council’s anti-fraud team and the Department for Work and Pensions revealed the rogue defrauded the council out of £4,126 of housing benefit, and £770 of council tax benefit. He also illegally claimed £2,353 of income support. At Hammersmith Magistrates’ Court on October 24, Smith was given a 12-month suspended sentence and was told to do 180 hours of community work.

Where would you like crooks to do their bit? Residents are being asked to nominate community projects that could benefit from some free labour as part of a scheme to make Sgt Dennis offenders pay for their crimes. Symeou and Sgt Under the ‘community payback’ scheme, Colin Trowles answer criminals are compelled to do manual questions from work on worthwhile projects that spruce residents. Below, up the neighbourhood, such as clearing Insp Dean Cambpell undergrowth, repairing and redecorating and Julie community spaces and removing graffiti. Quinn Areas that have benefited from the scheme in the past include Ravenscourt Park, Wormholt estate, Wormwood Scrubs, Lillie Road recreation ground and St Paul’s Church. Around 1.3 million hours of community payback are completed every year in London – or about £10m of free labour per year. If you have a project that offenders could work on please email: nominations@london. cp.gsi.gov.uk or call 020 7740 8222.

Met Police Ch Supt Lucy D’Orsi, who led esidents have been turning up in the initial ‘How Are We Doing on Crime?’ droves for a new series of road meeting at St Peter’s Church, Fulham, said: shows to tackle crime and “The new ward-based crime roadshows are antisocial behaviour, street by an innovative way to combat local crime street. As part of the new approach, the and antisocial behaviour issues.” police and H&F Council have been asking H&F Council deputy leader Greg Smith residents to work more closely with them to said: “The roadshows are part of our target crime on a ward-based level. proactive crime-fighting approach which Meetings have taken place in Addison, helps the police tackle the crooks on a Hammersmith Broadway, Munster street-by-street basis.” and Ravenscourt Park wards. The roadshows, which are The roadshows focused on OK OUuTr! O L supported by the borough’s each neighbourhood’s specific yo To find ime neighbourhood watch association, crime problems. Residents also next cr w, roadsho w. are organised by the council met their local police team. w w visit: .uk/ with the Mayor’s Office for Policing Bernie Ealey, 60, of Horder lbhf.gove crim and Crime. Road, Fulham, said: “Roadshows And Tony Twiss, 66, who lives in like this are a great idea as it is Rylett Road, Shepherds Bush, said: “I important that people take an interest think these meetings are very valuable to in crime in their area. Burglary and help coordinate the good work of the antisocial behaviour are the main troubles various council officers and police and we have around here and the meeting make sure they are focusing on what was very helpful in showing how to prevent matters to us – the residents.” being burgled.”

Fraudster’s prison term is suspended A fraudster who swindled H&F Council out of almost £30,000 of benefits has avoided jail. Sandra Allder, of Carthew Road, Hammersmith, claimed the cash despite having more than £40,000 saved in her bank account. When she was questioned by H&F Council’s anti-fraud team she claimed that the money was not hers and said it was for her son who has learning difficulties. In total, Allder, 56, illegally claimed £22,340 of housing benefit, £5,096 of council tax benefit and £8,127 of income support. She pleaded guilty to fraud at Hammersmith Magistrates’ Court on Thursday October 4. At Isleworth Crown Court, on Friday, November 9, Allder was sentenced to 24 weeks in jail, suspended for 12 months. She was also told to do 150 hours of unpaid work.

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YOUR MAGS Page 27 NEWS crime roadshows.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:29:09

NEWS

Work together, and high-speed rail hub could become a supercity

THINK BIG, AND NEW INTERCHANGE COULD BECOME THE ANSWER TO DEPRIVED AREA’S JOBS AND HOMES CRISIS, CLAIMS COUNCIL. ROB MANSFIELD SUMS UP THE ARGUMENT

chance to create tens of thousands of extra jobs from the UK’s newest high-speed rail line could be squandered if Whitehall bureaucrats fail to work more closely with local councils. This is the warning from H&F Council which is arguing that up to 196,000 jobs in construction and related businesses could be generated by improving the development plans around the major new High Speed 2 (HS2) rail interchange station north of Wormwood Scrubs in Old Oak. With thousands of passengers an hour expected to flood through the interchange, the council says the site could be a goldmine for the area where about half of workingage adults are

unemployed, and parts of the area are in the bottom one per cent most deprived nationally. But the council claims that government bureaucrats are in danger of viewing HS2 as ‘just a railway’ rather than a major regeneration project. H&F Council leader Nicholas Botterill says: “A radical shift is needed in the way Whitehall interacts with councils. “HS2 is not just a railway line – it has huge potential to become the catalyst that creates large numbers of new homes and jobs along the route.” The £32billion fast rail link between London and Birmingham and Manchester will see a new generation of trains, reaching speeds of up to 250mph. A third of passengers are expected to change to other road or rail links at the new interchange. Dubbed the new ‘Park Royal City International’ the interchange will be the final stop before the trains terminate at Euston. The Government has recognised the station’s vital role in taking pressure off busy central London terminals – which cannot cope with 13,000 extra passengers an hour. However, there are currently no firm HS2 plans for ‘over-site’ development at the station and the council argues that HS2 would

The proposed high-speed rail interchange in Old Oak could become huge catalyst for homes and jobs. Inset below, the scheme’s mastermind Sir Terry Farrell and a high-speed train in Japan

be capable of delivering many more new jobs and homes than currently envisaged if government departments worked more closely with the local authorities in the area. If the railway is designed both above and around the HS2 hub station, as well as the proposed Kensal Crossrail station, the area could deliver 21,000 new homes and 196,000 new jobs. A master plan from world renowned architect Sir Terry Farrell shows how the area could become the largest regeneration project the capital has ever seen. The additional development would be worth £74billion and up to 25 per cent of London’s growth over the next 30 years could

“

be accommodated on the site, according to the council. Cllr Botterill continues: “The government needs to work with us to ensure that the stations and depots at Park Royal City International and Kensal support our regeneration goals. “If they listen and start working more closely with us, vast swaths of derelict industrial land in one of London’s poorest areas could be transformed. “HS2 has the potential to unleash the creation of a new business hub bigger than Canary Wharf – but only if the Whitehall bureaucrats ask for local input and expertise.” In response, A DfT spokesman said: “We are pleased that the council recognises the huge regenerative potential of HS2. “We will continue to ensure that the opportunities that HS2 presents are maximised.” l For more details on the HS2 plan in Old Oak, visit: www.lbhf.gov.uk/hs2

It’s not just a railway line, it has potential to be the catalyst for jobs and homes

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YOUR MAGS Page 28 NEWS HS2 call.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:31:23

NEWS

Council’s First World War dead remembered on restored memorial in town hall

l WAR heroes, ex-servicemen and residents paid their respects to the country’s fallen soldiers on Remembrance Sunday. The mayor of Hammersmith & Fulham, Cllr Belinda Donovan, attended a service at Shepherds Bush Green while the deputy mayor, Cllr Frances Stainton, joined the march to Fulham war memorial. Following the parades, a restored war memorial was unveiled (pictured left) at Hammersmith Town Hall in memory of the 14 employees of the former Metropolitan Borough of Hammersmith who were killed serving during the First World War. The war memorial was originally installed at Hammersmith’s old town hall in Shepherds Bush Road, which was demolished in the 1960s, and the stone tablet required significant restoration work. The H&F Historic Buildings Group and H&F Council have worked together to restore the memorial. The names of the former council employees on the stone tablet are: HJ Aylott, I Dixon, A Garrard, GM Green, J Hadley, I Tysoe, TW Atkinson, T Ambrose, T Brown, A Cook, J Lake, TH Meacock, A Hornby, E Mayhew. If you have any details on these fallen soldiers, please contact the H&F Historic Buildings Group via email at: info@hfhbg.org.uk

MORE PICTUREs Visit: www. lbhf.gov.uk/ remember

Tributes are paid to White City councillor and residents’ champion who died at 65 lags flew at half-mast over Hammersmith Town Hall as the borough marked the death of Cllr Jean Campbell – who died suddenly on November 17 at the age of 65. She had been a councillor for more than six years, representing the residents of Wormholt & White City ward. Born in Belmont, St Andrew, Jamaica in 1947, she was part of the great pioneer generation that arrived in Britain in the post-war period. Much of her life was dedicated to public service. Jean worked as an auxiliary nurse at the former West London Hospital in Hammersmith, then as a civil

Cllr Jean Campbell

servant in the Department of Trade & Industry. An active member of her local church, Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church, she was also an executive member of the White City Tenants’ and Residents’ Association – having recently been re-elected as its treasurer. Jean did all of this while volunteering in her local community and bringing up four sons. For the last seven years she was also the carer for her partner, Jones Delauney, who sadly died in July after a long illness. Jean lived with her mum. H&F Council oppposition leader Stephen Cowan said: “Jean was the original community leader – always

thinking how she could get something done for her constituents and working to make things better. “Her death is a terrible shock. I know the thoughts of everyone who knew Jean will be with her mum, her children, their partners and her grandchildren, of whom she was very proud – as were we of her.” H&F Council leader Nicholas Botterill said: “Everyone at the council is deeply saddened at the sudden death of Cllr Campbell. “Jean was a well-known member of the Wormholt and White City community and will be sorely missed by all who knew her. I would like to extend my sincere condolences to her friends and family.”

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YOUR MAGS Page 29 NEWS Sunday and Campbell.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:33:58

NEWS

Strictly Come Dancing stars toast new-look Shepherds Bush dance school

The big names turn out to welcome the securing of a key venue in the heart of Shepherds Bush, writes Jon Weisgard

he stars of BBC hit show Strictly Come Dancing waltzed into Shepherds Bush last month for the opening of a new-look dance studio. Television judges Darcey Bussell and Craig Revel-Horwood were the star attractions as the West London School of Dance (WLSD) unveiled its base. The studio is in the Shepherds Bush Village Hall in Bulwer Street (pictured right) – a building that H&F Council recently sold in order to reduce its debt and concentrate funding on frontline services. Rather than simply selling the building for housing, it was sold to the Widgoer Family Foundation which has been able to ensure that the occupying groups, including WLSD, have been able to remain on site. Strictly judge Darcey Bussell said: “I feel very proud to be opening this magnificent studio. The work of the West London School of Dance has been pivotal to the growth and development of so many young dancers’ lives for over 20 years.” H&F Council leader Nicholas Botterill also attended the event and said: “We are hugely proud of the contribution that the West London School of Dance makes to the borough. “Whether it is an Argentine tango or an American smooth, we hope the new and improved dance studio might just nurture some of the future stars of Strictly Come Dancing.” l For more details on the WLSD, visit: www.wlsd.org

YOUR MAGS Pages 30-31 Strictly Dancing and Karen Hardy.indd 1

West London Schoo l of Dance CraigRevel-Horwood raises a glass of bubbly to the West London School of Dance in Shepherds Bush Village Hall, above, where Darcy Bussell (left) was mobbed for autographs

03/12/2012 13:53:41

My Fulham Christmas Shopping

KAREN HARDY

The Strictly Come Dancing star and Fulham dance studio owner hits the shops in SW6 and shares her favourite Christmas finds...

I wanted to get something special for my husband – and I’ve found the answer; membership of Broadway House, a private members’ bar. With a beautiful restaurant, bar and two stunning roof terraces. It is a hidden gem where one can relax by day and party by night. £350 might seem expensive – but at less than a £1 a day, it’s worth the exclusivity. And he can take a guest! Broadway House, 474 Fulham Road (www.broadway-house.com).

y Christmas list is longer than my arm, and with the abundance of independent shops and businesses in Fulham, I know I can find what I want right on my doorstep! I know that by shopping locally I’m supporting the SW6 economy and helping retain what makes Fulham unique. Let’s face it, we love our local high streets. But if we don’t use ’em we’ll lose ’em.

Vagabond Wines

I start with brunch at Al Santo, 23 Vansten Place (www.alsanto.co.uk), a cosy cafe/deli serving trad Italian & Greek food. Eggs with prosciutto, three cheeses, butter beans, cherry tomatoes and a coffee. Across the road my mouth waters at the display of magnificent cakes and pastries in the window of Del Aziz, 32 Vanston Place (www.delaziz.co.uk) but I’m won over by the ‘Moroccan Mint Tea Time hamper’ at £62, which hits the spot for my tea-loving girlfriend Emma. And I throw in ‘The Ultimate Chilli lovers’ Hamper’ with everything you need for a ‘hot’ Xmas – perfect for my husband Emmerson.

From there I find my way to Fulham Road and Indian Summer, 624c Fulham Road (www.indiansummer shop.com) a store of treasures, trinkets, gifts, jewellery and homeware.

Next stop is next door at Vagabond Wines, 18 Vanston Place (www.vagabondwines.co.uk) where I make a group booking for the Karen Hardy team for our Christmas night out. DIY wine sampling and over 100 wines. From 50p a sample, putting £10 on each person’s card will make a fab start to the evening, then we can pick a few bottles of what we like plus nibbles to keep us all vertical.

Next stop, Little Heroes, 638 Fulham Road (www. littleheroes.co.uk), a brilliant toy shop with everything they could ever want – especially for younger children. Now for me. I’m off to Circa Vintage, 64 Fulham High Street (shop@circavintage.com). The best-kept secret to those in the know. Designers, stylists, singers, actresses and vintage fashionistas come for dresses from every era, from early Victorian to 1970s Ossie Clark. The vintage evening bags and jewellery will also make perfect presents for my (and my hubby’s) PAs, as they always deserve to be spoiled!

Heading up North End Road I’ll swim into Ocean Catch, 407B North End Road, to peruse its range of high-quality fresh fish which won’t break the budget. Mussels, calamari, clams and crab, salmon, bream and smoked haddock. And I’ll pick it up just before the holiday break. And on Christmas Eve I can also pick up my fruit and veg from the market traders on North End Road community of market traders all selling fresh produce at tasty prices.

f Dance

Next stop is the Fit Rooms, 252 North End Road (www. fitrooms.co.uk), a gym hugely popular with Fulham residents. For my friend who lives round the corner, a threemonth membership to help her rediscover her waistline (her words not mine!). At £49 a month it includes top facilities, classes and personal training. Perfect.

Now to Lillie Road (www.lillieroad. co.uk), the interior designers and decorators’ best-kept secret, to look for something for my son’s best friend’s parents who have helped me out in the Strictly season! This is tough, as they have everything! I’m sure to find a little gem with 19 antique shops offering antique furniture, lighting, mirrors, artefacts, taxidermy and decorative arts for all tastes from traditional French country to 20th Century design classics.

Then back down the other side of the Fulham Road to Palmer Menswear, 771 Fulham Road for something for my brother. It’s a boutique with shirts, trousers, socks, suits and shoes, many made especially for them. A few steps on and I’m at Art Beat, 703 Fulham Road (www.artbeatframing.co.uk), for stocking fillers including I Love Fulham mugs and bags, and a reproduction vintage poster of a children’s classic, framed. I’m torn between Babar and Winnie The Pooh, but seeing as it’s Babar’s 80th anniversary this year...

Parsons Nose

On my way out, I’m tempted by Dickensons Meat, a reputable, fair-on-the-pocket butcher’s for 28 years at 365 North End Road, Fulham (www.dickenson-meat. co.uk). The queues tell their own story. Where shall I get my turkey? With three great butchers in Fulham including Randalls, 113 Wandsworth Bridge Road, and The Parson’s Nose, 753 Fulham Road, (finalists in South of England’s butcher of the year 2011) I’m spoilt for choice.

Trekking down Parsons Green Lane back to Imperial Wharf I stop at Cissbury, 93 Wandsworth Bridge Road (www.cissbury.com), where I can buy everything else I need for my husband’s family in New Zealand... perfect gifts I can wrap, pack and not faint when I get the postage bill. Back to the office, Karen Hardy Studios, 10 The Boulevard, Imperial Wharf, (www.karenhardystudios. com). It’s a luxury lifestyle experience, and the gift of dance is perfect for someone special. Membership and dance packages available. Finally, slightly exhausted and in need of food and a glass of wine, I head to Circus Circus, 176 Wandsworth Bridge Road (www.circuscircus.co.uk) for party supplies, Xmas decorations and fancy dress for New Year’s Eve.

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YOUR MAGS Pages 30-31 Strictly Dancing and Karen Hardy.indd 2

03/12/2012 13:52:51

Report it Download the app

www.lbhf.gov.uk/reportit

Help make our streets the

Sort it out!

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be rubbish!

Only put recyclables in orange sacks and banks

Put bags out on the right day and in the right way

CLEANEST in London

Hammersmith & Fulham Council YOUR MAGS Pages 32-33 Report It.indd 1 Advert Keep Our Streets Clean A4.indd 1

www.lbhf.gov.uk 02/12/2012 14:35:19 28/11/2012 11:35

Green the

dream

WAR IS BEING WAGED ON WASTE AS THE COUNCIL LAUNCHES A NEW PHONE APP to HELP KEEP OUR STREETS CLEAN. DELYTH BOWEN HEADS TO THE FRONT LINE

ar is being waged on waste after H&F Council unveiled its secret weapon as part of a new campaign to help make the borough’s streets the cleanest in London. Already armed with a team of street sweepers, cleaning apparatus and machines, the council has a new technological tool – an innovative mobile phone app that is making it easier than ever for residents to report flytips, graffiti and litter. Eagle-eyed residents can now download the free h&f Report it app on to their smartphone, take a photo of the problem on any public land – including local roads, pavements, parks and other public spaces – and send it directly the council. The launch of this new app signals the beginning of a wider campaign to encourage residents to help the council make local streets the cleanest in London, to put rubbish out for collection on the right day and to lower recycling contamination rates. H&F Council deputy leader Greg Smith said: “We are using the very latest technology to keep our borough’s streets clean by asking residents to help us spot problems like fly-tips and littering.” Independent research shows that the borough’s streets are among the cleanest in the capital, and the cleanest they have ever been, with 98 per cent of streets complying with Keep Britain Tidy cleanliness standards.

See it, snap it! Cllr Greg Smith sees how the new phone app can be used to promptly report fly-tipped rubbish, litter and graffiti for swift cleaning PICTUREs BY LEIGH QUINNELL

NEWS

“But we want to go further by getting residents to help make them the cleanest streets in London,” Cllr Smith added. “Residents can help us by using the h&f Report it app to alert us to issues on the streets and in other public spaces.” Easy to use, the app works by allowing GPS signals to pinpoint the exact location of the problem. Residents are asked to provide a short description before it is sent to the council, where it appears on the ‘to do’ list of the borough’s street cleaners – and all at the touch of a button. The h&f Report it app has been up and running for a short trial period and has already proved successful with grot spots being cleaned up – usually within 24 hours of the report. Local resident Angeloumae Bondad, 14, said: “I like h&f Report it app as it is an easy way to report rubbish on the streets. It’s a quick way we can all help keep the streets clean.” But residents are not only being asked to download the app, they are being asked to also make sure they put out their rubbish bags and smartsacks on the right day for collection and that they present them in the right way, and to put only recyclable material in orange bags. Latest figures from the Western Riverside Waste Authority, which processes rubbish and recycling from H&F, Wandsworth, Kensington and Chelsea, and Lambeth, show that one million orange sacks a year – or 20 per cent of sacks – are contaminated. All of the rubbish placed in these sacks is then thrown away and incinerated, rather than being recycled, costing the council 50 per cent extra in disposal costs. Meanwhile, it was found that 10 per cent of black bag waste was recyclable. l Download the free app to your smartphone now using your Android, Apple, Blackberry or Windows Phone or visit: www.lbhf.gov.uk/reportit for all the download links. l You can visit ‘My Account’ on www.lbhf.gov.uk/myaccount to submit a report, or see the current status of any reports you’ve made. l You can report fly-tipping or litter by calling on 020 8753 1100 or by emailing: cleaner.greener@ lbhf.gov.uk

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11:35

YOUR MAGS Pages 32-33 Report It.indd 2

02/12/2012 14:37:44

500 new homes to be built on council land in the next decade

NEWS

JOINT VENTURE WITH PRIVATE SECTOR WILL CREATE SCORES OF NEW HOMES TO HELP MORE ON TO HOUSING LADDER, WRITES JON WEISGARD Tarek Tuzani and Laura Stevens enjoy home ownership with daughter Sophia

Tarek and Laura’s £75,000 discount finally makes it possible to buy their flat A Hammersmith couple have become the first in the borough to buy their home with a £75,000 right-to-buy extended discount. Tarek Tuzani and his partner Laura Stevens have taken advantage of the scheme to purchase their former council flat in Standish House, St Peter’s Grove. The Government has recently increased the maximum discount that council tenants can receive if they wish to buy their own home from £16,000 to £75,000. And that has seen a surge of interest in the borough with more than 700 people attending the council’s right-to-buy roadshows and more than 300 people applying for the scheme. Tarek, 32, was quickest off the mark and is delighted that he has now found his way on to the housing ladder. He said: “I am thrilled to own the flat and it is a

wonderful feeling to know that it is finally all mine. The £75,000 was an incredible help – without it would have taken me many more years to save for the deposit. “Laura and I felt especially proud when we opened the front door for the first time as owners. It is a big relief to finally be on the property ladder. The future seems a lot more secure knowing we finally own a home. “I would certainly recommend right to buy to other council tenants who want to buy their property – it really is a no-brainer.” Cllr Andrew Johnson, cabinet member for housing, said: “It is always fantastic to see young people such as Tarek and Laura able to make that all-important first step on to the housing ladder.” JW l If you are interested in finding out about right to buy email: h&fhome-buy@lbhf.gov. uk or call: 020 8753 6464.

ive hundred new homes will be built on council land in the next decade according to H&F Council plans. All of the new homes will be built by the council’s local housing company in a joint venture with a private sector partner. In one of the biggest housebuilding projects of its kind, the council is determined to make it easier for residents to purchase a home in the borough by developing low-cost homeownership schemes. Hammersmith & Fulham has the fourth highest property prices in the UK – which means that getting on the housing ladder is virtually impossible for many people. Only two per cent of the borough’s houses and flats are ‘intermediate’ low-cost homes for sale, while 34 per cent is rented by council or housing association tenants. Cllr Andrew Johnson, cabinet member for housing, said: “London is in the midst of its greatest housing crisis for 50 years, with house prices doubling in the last 10 years. “Tens of thousands of Londoners are simply locked out of home-ownership and pushed into a revolving door of private let after private let.

“In fact, many people are realising that they cannot even afford to rent.” It is anticipated that the council’s joint venture will last for an initial period of 15 years. The council has identified two development opportunities comprising residential sites which it owns in Fulham – the Watermeadow Court estate and Edith Summerskill House. This could create around 200 homes constructed in the next five years. Edith Summerskill House on the Clem Attlee Estate is an empty, 18-storey former council block. The building is in need of more than £6million of improvements to bring it up to standard – a figure the council believes is poor value for money. Instead, redevelopment of the site will involve a complete refurbishment or its demolition and rebuilding. Watermeadow Court in South Fulham currently comprises 80 unfit-for-purpose residential units over three storeys. When the council asked residents what they thought of the block, they responded that rooms were too small, with a severe lack of storage space, meaning many families were living in cramped conditions. By working with a private

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YOUR MAGS Pages 34-35 NEWS buildings.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:43:16

NEWS

Irish Centre will include 24 flats THE Irish Centre in Hammersmith is set for a radical transformation. Hammersmith & Fulham Council granted the organisation planning permission last month, allowing the building’s new owners to demolish the centre and rebuild it – complete with 24 flats. The council struck a deal to sell the building, in Blacks Lane, to the centre’s board of directors in April. The building, which used to be owned by the council, had been put on the market in 2011 as part of the council’s policy of selling some of its buildings rather than cutting vital services during the tough economic climate.

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developer through the joint venture, rather than simply selling off the blocks, the council will also receive a share of the profits from any sales of the flats – far in excess of the amount it would receive if it simply sold off the land. This money will then be ploughed back into similar schemes, estate improvements and reducing the council’s £200m of housing debt. Cllr Johnson added: “At present low-cost homes to buy in this borough are like gold dust but we want to change that for decent, hard-working local residents to fulfil their housing dreams. “Schemes like this will give hope to the lost generation of homeowners in London and will

Edith Summerskill House (above) and Watermeadow Court (below) are possible sites to be redeveloped for local residents to purchase

also help to give the construction industry a much-needed boost.” The council’s local housing company, called Hidden Homes, is already working to convert underused undercrofts, bin stores, pramsheds and garages on council estate land into flats that are sold at a fraction of the market rate. The first property, at Becklow Gardens, Shepherds Bush, was recently sold to a 30-year-old hospital worker who has spent her entire life living with her parents on the estate and has not been able to buy her own home. Planning permission has recently been granted for the next three sites, with Hidden Homes seeing more than 100 new homes built over the next five years. The council’s local housing company also intends to begin an innovative house-building scheme using modern methods of construction. A number of sites across the borough are being identified that could benefit from highly flexible and adaptable family homes that can also fit into tight urban spaces. These infill development sites are considered suitable for development of up to 50 new homes per site. Due to the relatively constrained nature of sites, innovative solutions in terms of design and construction are being sought.

THE borough’s roads will play host to one of the largest charity fund-raising cycle rides in the world next summer. More than 20,000 amateur cyclists are set to ride their bikes through the borough on August 4 as part of RideLondon 100. RideLondon 100 will be part of a fantastic weekend of cycling activity across London and Surrey, including RideLondon FreeCycle, RideLondon Grand Prix and RideLondon Classic. But H&F Council is warning all borough residents to expect significant transport disruption throughout the day, with major roads closed to traffic. RideLondon 100 is planned to start in the new Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, then travel through the capital and into the borough before heading into Surrey. The cyclists then return later in the day before finishing on The Mall. The day will also feature an invitation-only, 150-mile men’s road race for international professional riders. Organisers predict the festival could attract more than 200,000 visitors from outside the capital, lead to a major boost in cycling numbers and generate millions of pounds in economic benefit. H&F Council deputy leader Greg Smith said: “This will be another exciting event with the borough again thrust into the centre of the sporting universe. However, as with the Olympic road races, residents need to know it will have a significant impact on the borough.” Online registration is now open at: www.RideLondon.co.uk

Theatre wins top green accolade THE only cultural venue in the UK with three-star green status is… Hammersmith’s Lyric. Independent assessors check energy, waste, water and travel to show continual improvement. “Sustainability is written into everything the Lyric does, across all departments,” said Alison Tickell of the awarding body. In the past year energy use has been reduced by six per cent.

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YOUR MAGS Pages 34-35 NEWS buildings.indd 2

02/12/2012 14:43:44

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YOUR MAGS Page 36 Mutual Exchange AD.indd 1

7i` iÃ`>ÞÊ£ÓÊ iVi LiÀÊÓä£Ó 10am-6.30pm Irish Cultural Centre, Blacks Road Hammersmith W6 9DT (Nearest Underground station is Hammersmith)

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03/12/2012 13:26:05

YOUR MAGS Page 37 Capco AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:44:55

Are you ready for snow?

Hammersmith & Fulham Council is prepared for severe winter weather conditions, including snow. Sign up for snow update email alerts for information about school closures, council services affected by bad weather, and how the roads are looking. Visit www.lbhf.gov.uk/snow and sign up! Information is also available on Twitter http://twitter.com/lbhf

Hammersmith & Fulham Council YOUR MAGS Page 38 winter weather AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:45:47

NEWS

Don’t miss Xmas events! Chelsea FC stars Victor Moses, Eden Hazard and Cesar Azpilicueta with mayor Donovan and Lily Davies

y l i L d n a rs ghts a t s i l a e s s a l Che on Xm turn

More on page 42&43>>

Electronic Xmas is now on the cards CREATE electronic Christmas cards, make your own 3D decorations, get your car ready for the wintry weather round the corner and have your hair braided as if you’re on a Caribbean beach. Monday, December 17, is the date to try out taster sessions organised by the borough’s adult learning and skills service in a Winter Wonderland event at the Macbeth Centre, Macbeth Street, W6. All sessions are free, from a lip-reading introduction to mince pie-making. You can even learn how to perform seasonal four-part harmony songs, and write cards in different languages. Visit: www.hfals.co.uk for more details.

The tree that gives birds a festive treat

FOOTBALL STARS DRAW THE CROWDS, BUT 102-YEAR-OLD LILY IS THE REAL CELEBRITY, Writes JON WEISGARD

helsea stars Victor Moses, Eden Hazard and Cesar Azpilicueta helped switch on the Fulham Christmas lights last month in Fulham Broadway. The players were joined by Fulham’s oldest resident, 102-year-old Lily Davies, and H&F mayor Cllr Belinda Donovan. Entertainment was also provided by Take That and Bee Gees tribute acts, the Fulham Cross girls’ school choir, Treblemakers acapella singers and vocalist Shelle Luscombe. Star-of-the-show Lily recently moved from her life-long home in Brackenbury Village, Hammersmith, to the Farm Lily Lane Care Home in Fulham – also celebrates home to Doris, a year Lily’s junior at a her 102nd birthday in tender 101! style with a Lily celebrated her recent birthday wee jig with a visit from Cllr Donovan and a jig with her family, friends and Farm Lane staff. Activities co-ordinator Kate Mukhayer said: “Lily is so active. She keeps us on our toes!”

BIRDS in the borough are being given a Christmas treat by the Hammersmith Community Gardens Association. H&F mayor, Cllr Belinda Donovan, will join children from Lena Gardens School to declare the wildlife Christmas tree open for winged visitors at the Loris community garden in Loris Road, Hammersmith, on December 14 at 3pm. The tree is garlanded with natural decorations full of tasty treats for birds; a seasonal donation from local landscape design company Shoots and Leaves. The Lena Gardens School choir will perform carols, with all welcome to join in.

Where to go when your baubles drop! RECYCLE your Christmas tree after Twelfth Night (January 6) by taking it to the Loris community garden in Loris Road, Hammersmith, from where the council will collect. The Hammersmith Community Gardens Association will be helping to keep up new year resolutions by making healthy smoothies using a pedal-powered smoothie maker. Free bike safety checks are also offered, and children will be able to make tasty bird feeders to feed our feathered friends during the cold winter weather. Last year more than 50 trees were collected at Loris Garden.

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YOUR MAGS Page 39 NEWS xmas lights.indd 1

03/12/2012 09:37:25

A shoe-in! William Ellis is the prince, dealing with footwear issues at the Lyric while, opposite, Julie Atherton waits under the clock and, inset opposite, Mel Giedroyc is the wicked stepmother

SO WILL THE LYRIC’S CINDERELLA MAKE IT TO PALAIS PARTY?

PICTUREs BY HELEN MAYBANKS & TRISTRAM KENTON

SS JULIE ATHERTON INTERVIEW IT’S HER FIRST PANTO – AND SHE’S CINDERELLA! TIM HARRISON MEETS ACTRE

BUT IS IT ANY GOOD? Read a full review of the Lyric’s panto Cinderella at: www.lbhf.gov.uk/ panto YOUR MAGS Pages 40-41 Cinderella panto.indd 1-2

HE hasn’t starred in panto before, which means Julie Atherton is in good company. Sean Holmes has never directed one before! So Cinderella, the Lyric’s Christmas production, promises to be invigorating and very different. Julie, fresh from 14 months touring the UK as a musical nun in Sister Act, is relishing the role of Cinders… and is eagerly anticipating playing alongside an actress/comedienne she rates highly, Mel Giedroyc as the wicked stepmother. “She’s evil, but she’s still loveable in the role; she’s brilliant,” said Julie of her co-star, best known as Sue Perkins’ fellow presenter in The Great British Bake-Off. Also in the line-up, Steven Webb as Buttons, appearing in panto in the third Lyric Christmas show on the trot. Julie describes him as ‘my best friend’. So how did Julie’s stage career begin, and how has she managed to dodge the oh-so British phenomenon that is pantomime for all her 34 years? “Actually I did appear in a panto, when I was in a dancing school in Preston,” confessed Julie, recalling one of her earliest childhood home-town performances. “I was chaperoning the younger children during my GCSE year, and one of the dancers hurt her back in the first half. I had to go on in her place in the interval, and I just had to make up the dance steps!” After drama school in London – at Mountview – Julie got a tremendous break, landing the lead role of Sophie in Phyllida Lloyd’s West End production of Mamma Mia! She has also been in the West End musical Avenue Q (where she met her fiancé, Tom Parsons), and toured the UK with Fame, but you sense that the roles she takes greatest pride in have been in with the Notes From New York company, a troupe she helped found in 2003 to popularise the work of non-mainstream musical composers and provide an antidote to the seemingly endless stream of jukebox shows which occupy so many West End theatres. She has also released two studio albums, where once again she has focused on lesser-known songs from contemporary musicals. And she’s working on a third. And so to panto. “I’ve seen the last two years’ pantos here [at the Lyric], and I loved them,” said Julie. “I thought I’d definitely do one here, because the attitude to pantomimes is very different here.” The fact that Sean Holmes has never tackled a

panto before also appealed to Julie, and the result is Cinderella with a twist. “She’s a little bit spunkier than your average Cinderella,” she said. “I mean, Cinderella is normally a bit twee, but this one’s more feisty and the story’s not exactly the same as usual. But all the traditional elements are there, and so it’s still perfect for kids as well as adults.” So what can Lyric audiences expect? Word reaches Tumbledown Castle that the prince is

“This Cinderella is ’s more feisty but it s still perfect for kid as well as adults” holding a pick-a-princess ball at Hammersmith Palais, so naturally Old Mother Hardup and her ugly daughters dress to impress. The question is, will Cinders get to the ball at all… and will the fragile footwear fit? Does Julie mind skipping most of Christmas because of the demanding performance schedule? “Oh, I always lose Christmas,” she said breezily. “If I’m not losing Christmas, I’m unemployed!” Her recent tour in Sister Act also put paid to a festive December break, but more than made up for that by being “brilliant – everyone was lovely”. Added Julie: “The Sister Act film came first, then the stage version with new songs written for it. “So it was an old concept, but a new musical. It was a really good laugh; I felt like I was a student again for a year – no responsibilities and away from home!” Of Cinderella – a show which has undergone a lot of in-rehearsal chopping, changing and rewriting under Sean Holmes’ direction – Julie said: “It feels like a magical show, and it has some really lovely moments.” Next up for Julie, once she’s slipped out of her sequinned Cinders ballgown in January, is a show called Lift at the Soho Theatre – a new musical by Ian Watson and Craig Adams which centres on a single minute spent in a London lift. It runs throughout February. l Cinderella, written by Joel Horwood and Morgan Lloyd Malcolm and directed by Sean Holmes, runs at the Lyric theatre until January 5. Tickets range from £12.50-£35, with family tickets from £60. Book on 020 8741 6850 or via: www.lyric.co.uk

02/12/2012 14:48:46

A shoe-in! William Ellis is the prince, dealing with footwear issues at the Lyric while, opposite, Julie Atherton waits under the clock and, inset opposite, Mel Giedroyc is the wicked stepmother

SO WILL THE LYRIC’S CINDERELLA MAKE IT TO PALAIS PARTY?

PICTUREs BY HELEN MAYBANKS & TRISTRAM KENTON

SS JULIE ATHERTON INTERVIEW IT’S HER FIRST PANTO – AND SHE’S CINDERELLA! TIM HARRISON MEETS ACTRE

BUT IS IT ANY GOOD? Read a full review of the Lyric’s panto Cinderella at: www.lbhf.gov.uk/ panto YOUR MAGS Pages 40-41 Cinderella panto.indd 1-2

02/12/2012 14:48:46

NEWS

Choir leads festive church singalong JOIN in with the voices of a choir this weekend, when the 100-strong Fulham & Hammersmith Choral Society performs a singalong concert. The event takes place this Saturday – December 8 – at 7.30pm at St Michael and All Angels Church in Turnham Green. The choral society, based in Parsons Green, performs three times a year – Easter, summer and Christmas – as well as occasional community events, too. On the programme, The Christmas Story by Heinrich Schutz, and Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols. There will also be traditional carols, with the audience encouraged to join in. The church of St Michael and All Angels is in Bath Road, W4 1TT. Tickets are £12 for adults, £5 for under 16s at: www.ticketsource. co.uk/fhcs, or £14 for adults on the door. For details about joining, visit: www.fhcs.org.uk

It’s all about elf and safety at 5D grotto experience

Taylor-made switch-on for Westfield’s Christmas lights

IF YOU thought the world was threedimensional, think again. The Westfield shopping mall in Shepherds Bush is promising a 5D festive grotto experience. And you’ll have to get your skates on too. An indoor rink is open until January 6, in the atrium of the giant shopping centre, where up to 180 people at any time can glide around to a Christmas musical soundtrack. Young skaters (the minimum age is four, but all under 12s must be accompanied by adults) can use ‘penguin’ stabilisers to help them stay upright. Sessions last an hour. Meanwhile Santa’s grotto – open until Christmas Eve, with tickets costing £3 – is said to be five-dimensional, with Pixar animations, telling the tale of Elbow the elf, who saves Christmas. Book places for skating and the grotto at: www.westfield.com/uk

On the first day of Christmas... …Hammersmith gave to me – a month’s worth of special deals, free gift wrapping, sparkling lights and a towering, festive tree! Look out for the Countdown to Christmas – presented by local Hammersmith amenity group HammersmithLondon – when daily deals, giveaways, VIP shopping events, in-store competitions and daily draws at town centre shops, pubs and restaurants will all be part of the adventure. For more details, visit: www. hammersmithlondon.co.uk or sign up to the Facebook page to receive daily notifications of what’s hot in the shops that day. All purchases made in W6 between now and December 23 can be wrapped for free by helpful elves in the Xmas cabin in Lyric Square.

Lady in red Taylor Swift even had scarlet fingernails when she officially launched Westfield’s festive lights

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YOUr maGs Pages 42-43 nibs Xmas round-up.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:54:52

NEWS

Turkey time for borough’s seniors DOZENS of the borough’s senior citizens have signed up for the annual Christmas Day lunch at Hammersmith town hall. The event, traditionally attended by the mayor, offers elderly people who would otherwise be spending the festive day on their own the chance to party, receive gifts, be fed with a hearty meal… and be entertained. Transport is offered to and from the town hall. Applications for the party have now closed, and invitations will be sent out by next week.

Santa will tread the Lyric boards in new premiere

inger songwriter Taylor Swift threw the switch to illuminate the Westfield mall Christmas lights in Shepherds Bush. More than 10,000 fans and shoppers gathered to get a first glimpse of the 2012 lighting display, and listen to the six-time Grammy winner perform live. Taylor was joined on stage in the Westfield atrium by young ambassadors from the Save the Children charity to count down the seconds to the switch-on. Following a display of confetti, snow and pyrotechnic laser lights, she then performed three of her hits; We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Love Story and Red. Westfield manager Myf Ryan said: “Shoppers were delighted to see a global superstar perform free.” Previous performers to have sung in the Westfield atrium include Mariah Carey (2009), Rihanna (2010) and Justin Bieber (2011). Tim Harrison

THE Raymond Briggs family classic Father Christmas shifts to the stage in a world premiere at Hammersmith’s Lyric theatre until January 5. Based on Briggs’ 1973 tale of a curmudgeonly Santa, forever complaining about the day-to-day problems of a gift distribution service operated from an ordinary house, the show is a production by the Pins and Needles company. Barry McCarthy takes the lead role, drawing on a recent portrayal of King Lear! It’s a long-overdue stage adaptation of the festive classic, and features original music played live by Kate Adams and puppetry created by Max Humphries and operated by David Emmings, fresh from War Horse at the National Theatre. Pins and Needles produced last year’s Lyric junior offering, Holly and Ivan’s Christmas Adventure. The show, which is suitable for under sixes, is directed by Emma Earle, with numerous performance times. Tickets are £8. Box office: 020 8741 6850 or visit: www.lyric.co.uk

Clowning around with cabaret & fair CHRISTMAS may be the time for giving, but it’s also the time for clowning around. Albert & Friends Instant Circus, which has been running circus workshops in schools and performing for nearly 30 years, is holding a Christmas cabaret and fair at St Alban’s Church, Margravine Road, W6, on December 8, noon-5pm, featuring local young performers from their outreach projects.

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

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02/12/2012 14:55:43

Waste less this Christmas You will have received a leaflet with this magazine, explaining how rubbish and recycling collections are affected over Christmas, and reminding you of the importance of putting the right type of recycling in your Smart Sack or Smart Bank. If for some reason you have not received this leaflet please visit www.lbhf.gov.uk/ recycling or contact cleaner greener on the details below for the information. When it comes to waste, recycling is just the beginning - the best option for our pockets and for the environment is to produce less waste in the first place. The less waste we produce, the less the council has to spend on waste disposal. If every household produced just 1kg of rubbish less this Christmas, we would save over £10,000 in waste disposal costs. At an expensive time of year, some of the tips below may also save you and your family money this month!

DECORATING AND GIFTS Reduce wrapping waste by using reusable gift bags, boxes or doing ‘furoshiki’, a Japanese-style of wrapping with material. If you do use wrapping paper though, make sure it is not metallic, as it can then be recycled.

SNUB - Say ‘No’ to un-needed bags while Christmas shopping by taking existing bags with you. Take any unwanted plastic bags you have for recycling when going to a big supermarket to do your main festive food shop.

Buy a UK-grown real tree with roots, that you can plant in your garden or keep in a pot for next year. Artificial trees are even better as they can be used many, many times and with care, will last forever.

Want to have a go at making homemade decorations? Short, ‘how to’ videos give you some great ideas and guide you through the process step by step: www.vimeo.com/ recyclenow

Buy rechargeable batteries for use in new Christmas gadgets, and recycle used batteries at one of our recycling tubes in libraries and some council offices.

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02/12/2012 14:50:28

FOOD SHOPPING

Christmas food really is great, So make sure you make the most of it! Defrost your freezer before Christmas it will work more efficiently and create more space to store leftovers and food on special offers. Plan how much food you will actually need, as on average we waste around 80% more food over the festive season! Take into account when you will be eating out and how many you are catering for. If there are some items you need a lot of, why not buy in bulk to reduce packaging. For a portion planner tool, recipe’s for left overs and lots more information on saving food visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

WHEN THE FESTIVITIES ARE OVER Remember lots of the Christmas waste you will have generated, like carboard boxes, wrapping paper, bottles and cans are recyclable with your normal collection. Sort it out! Please only put recyclable items in the orange sacks and banks. Other items can make your recycling unusable. Recycle your old Christmas lights, or any other small electrical items, using the specialist recycling facilities at libraries and some council offices. If you receive a large gift to replace an old item like a television, computer, electrical appliance or furniture, why not donate it for someone else to use? Simply call the London Re-use Network hotline: 020 3142 8506 or visit www.londonreuse.com

Your home compost mix will greatly benefit from adding a few of the tell-tale signs of Christmas: fallen leaves, scrunched up wrapping paper, winter vegetables and festive fruits such as satsumas and clementines. If you do not already have a compost bin, but are interested in getting a subsidised one go to: www.lbhf.getcomposting.com Why not start the new year with a bang and take part in our Waste Challenge. You will pick up loads of tips to help you reduce, reuse and recycle your current waste and save money! You could also win £100 for a good cause of your choice. Simply email: recycle@lbhf.gov.uk for a pack and support.

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YOUR MAGS Pages 44-45 Xmas recycling rubbish info AD.indd 2

02/12/2012 14:51:01

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02/12/2012 14:56:23

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Join the Zero Waste Challenge Get the rubbish out of your life this January! During January, we’re encouraging everybody to take part in a Zero Waste Challenge, to cut down their waste by as much as possible for one week.

10 0 W in £ a g for n i d n fu c a us e good

YOUR MAGS Page 47 London Empire Zero Waste ADS.indd 1

Anything you do to reduce your waste will have a big impact, and you’ll probably save some energy and money too. Enter for a chance to win £100 funding for a good cause of your choice. You can do the challenge alone, or with your household, place of work or school. Find out more at: wrwa.gov.uk/zerowaste or email recycle@lbhf.gov.uk for a Challenge Pack and support.

02/12/2012 14:57:05

NEWS

Super sewer cash will not buy silence from residents SOUTH FULHAM RESIDENTS FIGHT BACK AGAINST THAMES WATER’s PLANS TO BLIGHT THEIR NEIGHBOURHOODS DESPITE COMPENSATION, writes ROB MANSFIELD

ompensation that the only residents for home ownwho will be considered ers affected by under their hardship Thames Water’s sewer procedure must: drilling proposals will l Have made ‘all reasonnot be enough to ‘buy the able’ efforts to sell their silence’ of residents, property but not received according to the council. an offer within 15 per Thames Water has cent of the market value, announced a compensameaning that residents tion deal – which it dewho get an offer for 14 scribes as an ‘exceptional per cent below market hardship procedure’ – for value will not qualify south Fulham property l Be within 100-metres owners who could be afof the construction site fected by its super sewer l Be owner-occupiers, stink pipe. meaning people who rent But H&F Council are excluded says the deal will not be l Not have bought the enough for residents who property after 13 Septemface moving as a result of ber 2010 when Thames Thames Water’s plans and Water announced proposis re-iterating its call for als to use Carnwath Road the whole project to be as the main tunnel drive scrapped. shaft. The controversial l Have a pressing need £4.1billion sewage storto sell age tank under the river H&F Council leader could get planning perNicholas Botterill said: mission from a national “Thames Water’s harequango in 2013 paving brained stink pipe plans the way for an area the are a disaster. Instead of size of six football pitches trying to buy residents’ on Carnwath Road, Fulsilence it is now time for ham, to be used for heavy Thames Water to ditch drilling. this whole tunnel project The land had and instead pursue originally been the cheaper, less KEEP earmarked for disruptive and READINilGls Water b fe new riverside more environmenup for li homes and busitally friendly ways 50 SEE PAGE nesses but could to make the Thames now be swallowed cleaner.” up for major excavations And Peterborough 24 hours-a-day, sevenRoad resident Ann days-a-week for Rosenberg said: “The at least six years. real story with the super But Thames sewer is the residents who Water, while admitface being re-homed like ting that work is likely cats and dogs. The effect to be hugely disrupon their lives will be tive if it goes ahead has catastrophic – especially announced a miserly if they have school age package of compensation children. The area around for residents whose lives Carnwath Road is a close could be turned upside knit community and this down. is all very frightening and Thames Water says deeply distressing.”

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGS Page 48-49 NEWS super sewer.indd 1

02/12/2012 14:59:27

NEWS

IN-DEPTH>> Q&A r e w e s ’ r e p u ‘s o s t o n The

What is the super sewer or Thames Tunnel, as I have heard it called?

The super sewer is a massive concrete sewage storage tunnel underneath the Thames. It will run 20 miles from west to east London, up to 250 feet below ground, broadly following the route of the river. But H&F Council chiefs have dubbed the porject the ‘stink pipe’.

The owners of Thames Water will be able to increase the value of the water company by 40 per cent by building the tunnel – in the hope of boosting profits for shareholders. The tunnel will not directly benefit the majority of Londoners or Thames Water customers and will not address basement flooding.

Cats and dogs. That’s how Ann Rosenberg (left) says residents ar being treated. Ins e right, the size of et th drill needed to e create the supe r sewer

Who will benefit most from the Thames WATER Tunnel?

Are there other ways to stop rainwater from causing sewage overflows into the river?

Yes. Green infrastructure solutions like water butts, permeable pavements and green roofs would stop as much rainwater getting into the sewers in the first place, would still comply with EU directives and be less costly and disruptive to Londoners.

Why does Thames Water want to build the SUPER SEWER?

Because 10 years ago the EU said London had to do something about rain that was running off roofs and roads into the underground sewer system, causing the mixt of fresh rain water and sewage to overflow into the Thames. Water industry experts say Thames Water stands to make £162million worth of revenue each year from the project, due to the way the industry is financed.

What happens next?

Thames Water is hoping to submit a planning application to the national body responsible for large infrastructure projects in 2013. The council has no power to refuse permission for the super sewer, and the main construction work is scheduled to begin in 2016. The council is lobbying hard to persuade the Government and Mayor of London to overrule Thames Water, which has a vested interest in building the most expensive scheme possible. Have your say now by writing to: Richard Benyon MP, at Defra, Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR.

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGS Page 48-49 NEWS super sewer.indd 2

02/12/2012 14:59:59

NEWS

Three reasons to care about the ‘stink PIPE’

1 2 3 50

You are paying for it

14 million Thames Water customers will pay at least an extra £80 each year on top of their current bills for the rest of your life. The increased charges will come in from 2013, if the scheme goes ahead, although construction will not begin until 2016 at the earliest.

Fulham residents will suffer most IN LONDON

Fulham residents, especially around Carnwath Road, will suffer from seven years of construction work including 29,000 lorries clogging Fulham’s streets round the clock. Thames Water has admitted that using the Fulham riverside will be more costly and more disruptive to more people.

SHOCK! You might need to wash your face with cold water when you learn that the stink pipe will cost £80 a year extra on bills... for life

You can still have your say

H&F Council and many local residents are lobbying hard to persuade the Government and Mayor of London to veto Thames Water’s plans and instead pursue cheaper, more environmentally friendly ways to make the river cleaner. The council has no power to refuse permission for the super sewer. Thames Water will submit a planning application for the whole sewer in 2013, so this is your final chance to object. You should send your views to: Richard Benyon MP, at Defra, Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR. Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGS Pages 50-51 NEWS super sewer II.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:02:32

NEWS

Thames Water’s £5,000 water bill ‘life sentence’ AN 18-YEAR-OLD LIVING TO CURRENT LIFE EXPECTANCY WOULD PAY AN EXTRA £5,040 IN HIS OR HER LIFETIME TO FUND AN UNDERWATER PIPE THAT EXPERTS DOUBT IS ACTUALLY NEEDED AT ALL, writes ROB MANSFIELD

hames Water customers face a £5,000 water bill life sentence if the company is allowed to drill a huge tunnel – know in Fulham as the ‘stink pipe’ – underneath London. The utility giant issued glossy leaflets last month to warn bill payers they face being charged an extra £80 a year to pay for the controversial 20-mile pipe under the Thames. It would mean that 13.8million Thames Water customers from Essex to Gloucestershire, including Londoners, will be charged a premium on top of current bills for the rest of their lives to fund the £4.1billion project. Therefore, an 18-year-old living to the current life expectancy of 81 would pay an extra £5,040 in water rates during their lifetime. The estimated cost of the sewage storage tank under the river bed has more than doubled

since the scheme was first mooted in 2002. Increasing numbers of residents are questioning whether the huge financial costs – combined with seven years of construction work seven days a week, 24-hours-a-day – are worth the relatively small benefits the tunnel will bring. Peterborough Road resident Lance Pierson said: “One hundred per cent would not be enough to say how opposed I am to the project. Thames Water will say ‘Of course he’s against it because of where he lives’ but I’m far more opposed to the scheme as a whole than Carnwath Road being used as a drilling site.” H&F Council has warned that many people on fixed incomes, for example pensioners, will be driven into water poverty under the current proposals, and is calling for cheaper and greener solutions that will maintain the river’s current status as one of the cleanest in Europe. H&F Council leader Nicholas Botterill said: “The cost of this sewage storage tank under the river threatens to create a water bill life sentence – especially for pensioners and residents on fixed incomes. “At a time when the budgets for the police, the armed forces, schools, transport and a whole range of local services are all being squeezed, are we really going to spend £4.1billion on a goldplated stink pipe?”

Thames Water stands to make a colossal £162million a year in additional revenue from the tunnel – which will be similar in size to the Channel Tunnel – due to a ‘perverse incentive’ in the way the water industry is financed, according to a national expert on water economics. Middlesex University professor Colin Green says that customers will be ‘ripped-off’ under the current plans as the current price system ‘creates a strong incentive to pour concrete’ rather than explore green alternatives that don’t make money. The problem arises as water companies are allowed to borrow money cheaply to pay for major projects, such as the super sewer, but water regulator Ofwat lets

“

This is the story of corporate greed, encouraged by a flawed regulatory system

Thames Water charge its customers 4.5 per cent each year to service its borrowing and to pay dividends to its shareholders. A public inquiry into Thames Water’s proposed £1bn reservoir in Steventon, Oxfordshire (which would have been as big as Gatwick Airport) found that the case for the reservoir had not been adequately made and that Thames Water had not considered more sustainable options. Cllr Botterill added: “The Thames Tunnel is the story of corporate greed encouraged by the UK’s flawed regulatory system, overzealous interpretation of EU law and successive governments which have not yet understood the huge environmental, social and economic costs – while ignoring the cheaper and greener alternatives.”

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

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02/12/2012 15:03:02

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03/12/2012 15:26:52

ARTS ROUND-UP

Goldheart Assembly steal the show at their Hammersmith Apollo debut gig

l WEST London rockers The Goldheart Assembly found themselves front and centre-stage last month as they made their debut appearance at the Hammermsith Apollo. Supporting major-label American rockers Band of Horses, the local lads tore through their set of fire and damnation licks in spirited fashion. But if you missed it, fear not. The chaps have announced a special Christmas gig at the always-rocking Albion pub in Hammersmith Road on Sunday, December 16. The £10 tickets include a glass of mulled wine. The Albion is also in action on Saturday, December 15, as fellow west London musical dynamos The Treetop Flyers put on their Santa hats and dish out the seasonal cheer. Tickets £7. For more details or tickets, visit: www.downthealbion.com Geoff Cowart

Bush Theatre dares you to go Straight or bet it all...

The Saw Doctors return for Xmas residency l VETERAN Irish folk rockers The Saw Doctors have made the Empire their home in December for the past 15 years or so. In an exclusive, rambling and charming interview, frontman Leo Moran (pictured above) recalls how the band’s residency at the Empire began and what it’s like being as big as U2 in Ireland. To read the full interview, or to see a full gallery of award-winning photographer David Tett’s snaps from Leo’s K West Hotel photo shoot, visit: www.lbhf.gov.uk/sawdoctors or to buy tickets to tonight’s or tomorrow night’s (December 7-8) gigs check out: www.02shepherdsbushempire.co.uk

l Lewis and Waldorf were inseparable at university. Ten years on and a lot has changed. In the middle of a drunken night out, they make a bet that will take their friendship to whole new level. That’s the Christmas cracker of a surprise – called Straight – now on stage at Bush Theatre until December 22. You’ll never look at your best friend in the same way again… (but be warned the play contains adult content and scenes of a sexual nature, says the theatre). However, if you would prefer a gamble of another variety, from January 31 the Bush tells the tale of another double act. This time it’s former hedge fund managers Casino and Queenie who plonk £10,000 in real pound coins in front of the audience and invite them to bet long, short and hedge in a high-stakes game which demonstrates how the world’s economic system came to the brink of collapse. Times, tickets and details at: www.bushtheatre.co.uk

Hammersmith label lands Mark Mulcahy in 7” coup l TONGUE Master Records boss Theo Vlassopulos has scored yet another coup for his Hammersmith-based label by releasing American troubadour Mark Mulcahy’s new 7” single Low Birthweight Child/ The Cottage That We Rented Had a Name. Details: www.tonguemaster.co.uk

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

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03/12/2012 10:27:59

ARTS ROUND-UP Caroline Platt with her winning piece at the V&A and receiving her award, below

She’s a glass act! Caroline wows the V&A judges as her design puts her in the frame l A HAMMERSMITH-BASED artist is a glass act according to the Victoria & Albert Museum after her stained glass piece was chosen for the museum’s Inspired By... show. Caroline Platt entered the V&A’s competition for people studying art, craft or design part-time. She attends classes at Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s Macbeth Centre in Hammersmith where she created her piece Going with the Phloem. Caroline said: “I made the wooden frame over several months in both my framemaking class and my woodwork class. The stained glass was designed afterwards specifically to complement the frame. I have thoroughly enjoyed all these classes. And organiser of the V&A competition Marilyn Green said: “Caroline was the only person to have won my category twice (she also won the woodwork category in 2009) and has also had two other pieces of artwork displayed at the V&A – a sculpture in 2005 and a bracelet in 2007... so I’m obviously delighted with all of her achievements.” Geoff Cowart

Look out for your new course guide! l Want to try your hand at stained glass, pottery, jewellery making, upholstery, woodwork and restoration? Look out for H&F Council’s new course guide for spring 2013, coming through your door shortly.

Hammersmith’s rich artistic heritage is celebrated in benefit lecture l THE artistic heritage of Hammersmith was the topic for a recent lecture which has helped raise money to restore a 1950s mural. Hammersmith Utopia was the theme of the Greenside arts lecture on November 22, when Prof Ruth Levitas spoke about the Hampshire House workshops in Hampshire Hog Lane, Hammersmith, between the river and King Street. Artists associated with the workshops included Eric Gill, Edward Johnston, Frank Brangwyn and May Morris. The lecture benefited the project to restore the 1952 Gordon Cullen mural in the Grade ll* listed Greenside Primary School. As well as the talk, there was also the showing of a short film featuring Alan Powers of the 20th Century Society talking about the mural and the Erno Goldfingerdesigned school. TH

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

See page 20 for full details

HAMMERSMITH’S eric gill>> the whole hog THIS beautiful design is the work of Eric Gill and one of the items displayed in the Royal Academy’s Wild Thing exhibition in 2010. Gill, who lived in Black Lion Lane, Hammersmith, from 1905-7, created the circular wood engraving in 1915 for the Hampshire House Bakery in Doves Place, Hammersmith. The artwork is in the permanent collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum and was given to it by his widow, Mary. As well as sculpture, Gill’s other work included 11 typefaces such as Gill Sans.

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGS Page 54 ARTSround-up.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:04:58

Adult learning and skills service

GET STARTED IN BUSINESS! H&F Adult Learning & Skills are pleased to be involved with the launch of a new national qualification to help support adults into setting up and running their own business. The courses are designed to cover a range of themes including business start-up, from passion to profit, social media and networking, legal and financial considerations and more. You can take individual courses that focus just on the things you need to know, or you can take a full qualification covering all the key skills needed to effectively launch your business. you must have an For classes marked with interview before enrolling, for interview dates contact chrys.mordin@lbhf.gov.uk *No tuition fees: if you are claiming Active Benefits you will not have to pay any tuition fees and help may be available to pay the registration and material fees. Please ask at interview.

MAC

15/01/13

BS1800

10:00-12:00

MAC

26/02/13

BS2800

Starting a business: generating a business plan To start a business you need an idea, and from that idea, you need a plan. This course will cover refining your idea and taking it forward. £80

£160

Mon

18:30-21:00

MAC

25/02/13

BS2850

Starting a business: marketing (understanding how to sell a product or a service) Once you have your idea for a product or a service, how do you tell people about it? This course will cover finding a market and promoting your product. Thu

10:00-12:00

MAC

24/01/13

BS2810

MAC

22/01/13

BS2820

Starting a business: financial considerations Once your business is running, you need to keep track of your finances to make sure your business is successful. This course will cover all the key skills and knowledge needed to get your cash working. £145 £40 £295

Wed

18:00-20:30

MAC

16/01/13

BS2830

Starting a business: social media for business These days, one of the best marketing outlets you can have is the effective use of social media – and it’s free! This course will give you an overview of the different ways you can put social media to work for your business. £95 £40 £185

Sat

13:30-16:00

MAC

09/02/13

BS2840

All classes are taught at Macbeth Centre, Macbeth Street Hammersmith W6 9JJ

£90 £40 £150

10:00-12:00

Tue

13:00-15:00

Tue

£70 £40 £130

Tue

£70 £40 £130

£90 £40 £150

Anyone interested in starting a business should attend this course before deciding what to do next. This course will help you decide whether running a business is for you.

iti

Starting a business: is it for you? (assessing your capacity to start and run a business)

Starting a business: legal aspects Once you’ve got the idea and the marketing down, you need to make sure you are aware of the legal considerations to make sure your business gets off to the right start. This course will cover what sort of legal entity your business should be and how to make that happen.

ADULT ENTERPRISE COURSES FROM JANUARY

YOUR MAGS Page 55 ALSS Enterprise AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:05:43

UPGRADE OFFER – JUST FOR YOU!

THE MUCH LOVED MUSICAL COMEDY RETURNS BY POPULAR DEMAND!

‘A SURE-FIRE CURE FOR THE WINTER BLUES’ Daily Telegraph Critics’ Choice

‘A TOPPING TREAT’ Time Out Critics’ Choice

‘A PARTICULARLY SPECIAL REVIVAL’

The Times

20 DECEMBER 2012 - 2 MARCH 2013 RIVERSIDESTUDIOS £15-£40 | 020 8237 1111 | SaladDaysTheMusical.com

YOUR MAGS Page 56 Riverside Studios AD.indd 1

UPGRADE TO PREMIUM TICKET! Book your standard price seat for £25 before 10 Dec and you will automatically be upgraded to a premium seat worth £30. Make sure you don’t miss out! Call 0208 237 1111 and quote UPGRADE. Valid for performances 20 December – 25 January.

02/12/2012 15:06:20

by DC Moore

by Clare Duffy

27 November - 22 December 2012

31 January – 2 March 2013

A razor-sharp new comedy directed by Richard Wilson. You’ll never look at your best friend in the same away again...

A playful and politically sharp look at the financial crisis. Risk takers to the front, risk adverse to the back. Welcome to MONEY the game show.

A Sheffield Theatres Production in association with the Bush Theatre. Based on the motion picture Humpday, written & directed by Lynn Shelton

BUSH THEATRE

YOUR MAGS Page 57 Bush Theatre AD.indd 1

A Bush Theatre and Unlimited Theatre co-production

Box Office - 020 8743 5050 www.bushtheatre.co.uk

Bush Theatre 7 Uxbridge Road London W12 8LJ

02/12/2012 15:07:56

FOOD & DRINK

WINE & DINE RODIZIO RICO >> FULHAM

So that’s what the restaurant means by a ‘full Brazilian’

t gives a whole new meaning to the words ‘full Brazilian’, and it combines food and theatre. Rodizio Rico opened a year ago in Jerdan Place, near Fulham Broadway tube, in what was a tapas restaurant. Maybe tapas have had their day. Perhaps recession dining demands a more substantial eating experience. You are challenged to eat as much as you can at this churrascaria (Portuguese for ‘barbecue’, and pronounced shoe-hass-korea). A meal has an element of endurance about it. You want to get your money’s worth. Each diner is given a beermat; red on one side for Enough! (não obrigado, as we say in Brazil) green on the other for Keep it Coming! (sim por favour). It’s the code for the passadors – meat carvers – to turn up with a skewer loaded with whatever the chefs have ready. This is a meat orgy, and the quality and variety are terrific. There are 16 meat styles, including rump steak, chicken thighs, lamb chops (probably the finest offering), pork ribs, sausages, fillet steak and chicken hearts… a Brazilian speciality which didn’t excite as much as others. It’s big. Factor in the pavement (operating with outdoor heaters) and 200 can gorge. There’s a salad bar and a hot veg zone, with deep-fried cheese balls and bean stew which you eat with a sprinkling of cassava flour. You make repeated trips to the salad/rice section between visits from the meat men. Despite this

‘‘

I’m pleased to say Mrs Sprat left Rodizio Rio as stuffed as I was

being a temple to meat, Rodizio Rico welcomes vegetarians. Chefs happily prepare grilled veg. That version of dining costs £19, while the ‘full Brazilian’ costs £23.50 (and you can’t share or sneak steaks out in doggy bags for Bonzo). Manager Thiago Araujo, a Rio native, knows his stuff, and runs an efficient ship. It needs to be, to keep pace with demand, as diners learn to specify rare or medium rare, and the passadors absorb everyone’s quirks to supply accordingly. “Big groups like it, and we have quite a few companies who have made bookings in December,” said Thiago. The joint, if you’ll pardon the phrase, is owned by an entrepreneurial transatlantic airline pilot whose wife is Brazilian. It is modelled on restaurants such as Porcão, near Ipanema in Rio, a meat city with 1,000 covers, and salad and fruit bars that leave you open-jawed. I experienced it (accompanied by a veggie pal) a few years ago, and Rodizio Rico reproduces it well. For the full South American experience, try hearty Chilean and Argentinian wines too (go for the Mendoza offerings) or order Brazil’s national drink – the crushed lime, spirit, sugar and ice Caipirinha – to get the evening underway. House wines are Portuguese, starting at just under a fiver for a glass. Rodizio Rico is open from noon, with worthwhile Sunday discounts, including £10 deals for under 12s and free dining for under fives). On balance I’d opt for lunch, as loading up with so much meat is a challenge to any digestive system. The passadors slice as carnivores use tongs to grab morsels peeling free from the skewer. It’s a technique that is initially cumbersome, but soon becomes second nature. Unless you specify, meat keeps arriving at table on a taxi rank system. You are simply offered the next in line, have the option to pass, and moments later are proffered another choice. If I missed anything, it was the chance to accompany meat with spuds – even a few chips would have been nice, but Brazilians prefer rice. There’s a choice of puds to follow, including rich chocolate cake and passionfruit mousse. It’s a sharing, swapping kind of meal. ‘Oh you must try this, it melts in the mouth!’ It’s also a ‘Jack Sprat’ establishment. He, you will recall, could eat no fat, while his wife could eat no lean. I’m pleased to say Mrs Sprat left Rodizio Rico as stuffed as I was. Tim Harrison l Rodizio Rico is located at 11 Jerdan Place, SW6. Call 020 7183 6085 or visit: www.rodiziorico.com

Fulham wine expert dares you to call his bluff A

NOW PREPARE to be surprised, writes Tim Harrison

superb Chablis… or an outrageous imposter? Playing Call My Bluff with different wines is one of the most popular festive pursuits at the West London Wine School (WLWS). Glasses are poured from bottles that are masked to prevent identification, then the fun begins. Just like the TV series, three experts discuss what’s supposedly in front of them. One is telling the truth about the wine in the glass, the other two are talking twaddle. The task is to pick the correct description. “We call it Whose Wine Is It Anyway?” explained Jimmy Smith, head tutor at the WLWS. “It’s one of the most popular things we run.” Corporate bookings are filling the available slots for the wine school’s midweek evening tastings (from 7-9pm), and the weekend courses, which run on Saturdays from 11am-4pm. The WLWS was recently a finalist in the UK Wine Educator of the Year category in both the International Wine Challenge Awards 2012 and Harpers Wine Magazine Awards. It is listed by Time Out, Decanter magazine and top taster and journalist Jancis Robinson as one of the best places to learn about wine in the capital, and has been accredited as an official Bordeaux wine educator for more than two years. Jimmy Smith (pictured inset), a H&F Young Entrepreneur of Year finalist, and his team of enthusiastic wine tutors, host tastings and courses from beginner to advanced, including professional courses. “No previous wine tasting experience is required for a fantastic evening,” said Jimmy, who also runs food and wine pairing workshops such as the sherry and tapas tastings. “We help people enjoy wine that little drop more,” said Jimmy, adding that the typical participant profile was 20 to 40-year-olds. l Visit: www.westlon donwineschool.com

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGS Pages 58-59 Food and drink.indd 1

03/12/2012 11:29:25

STOCK UP

It’s all about top champagnes, ports & wines at Christmas

FOOD & DRINK

It’s all happening just below the ground level

Champagnes

Petit Canon

77 Parsons Green Lane, Fulham l 020 7731 7503 www.petitcanon.com

glass of bubbly, a chilled Chardonnay, a £9 Pinot noir just perfect to accompany the turkey, roast potatoes and sprouts, and a bargain-priced tawny port as you refuse seconds and groan at the prospect of plum pud. Petit Canon, the independent Parsons Green wine shop, is geared up to give all the right recommendations this month, and answer the all-important question, What to drink this Christmas? “Every festive season we focus on three main areas: champagnes, ports and wines, all required for the special day itself,” says Justin Vanrenen. Here’s his guide:

I predict a strong year for grower champagnes (smaller, lesser-known producers) as people tighten their belts and look for value for money at the £25-£30 range of champagne. Great producers such as St Evremond (£25.95), Champagne Moutart (£25.65, pictured below) and Ayala (£23.95) are great buys for under £30 with Gratiot-Pilliere another fantastic producer at £28.70. Of the better known brands Bollinger is always popular and we have £5 off this Christmas (£31.95). Magnums (150cl) are also good fun with Moutard Brut at £49.95 and Bollinger Special Cuvee at £79.95.

Ports

We work mainly with Krohn and Fonseca, two houses that offer exceptional quality at a fantastic price. The Krohn Heritage Tawny (left) will be £9.95 throughout December, and we’re offering the 2000 Colheita and 2003 Vintage at £14.95 and £22.95 respectively. These guys have picked up plenty of awards and will enjoy a growing following over the next few years.

Wines

Burgundy and Bordeaux tend to be the favourites and I don’t expect that to change. There are some excellent Burgundies, white and red, for under £20 that go perfectly with Christmas dinner such as Le Vieux Quartier Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for £9.95 in December. Domaine Chevrot’s Maranges has a little more depth and is a great option at £26.95. As for Claret, the Chateau BuissonRedon for £8.85 is great value for money and the Chateau Grand Cormier, Lalande-dePomerol for £17.50 will be my choice with turkey and trimmings.

Time to admire the Sloaney Pony’s new coat l NESTLING on the northern corner of Parsons Green, The White Horse has been a haven for beer lovers since 1688. Now the pub known to locals as the Sloaney Pony has opened its freshly polished doors following a major refurbishment, serving up a new menu and beer and wine selection. The White Horse offers regularly rotating cask ales and more than 100 bottled beers including six of the seven varieties brewed in the monastery of the Trappists. Transformed, The White Horse gleams – from the imposing oak bar to the wood and flagstone floors. Reclaimed chesterfields surround the bar area, while the alfresco zone, complete with proper pub benches, awaits spring’s arrival. Upstairs, the dining area has its own bar, with a private room with glistening chandeliers and oak paneling. Daily changing dishes include starters such as beetroot, Bramley apple & horseradish soup; pigeon, egg, lentil & endive; pork & rabbit terrine with sweetcorn ice cream & piccalilli. And don’t miss one of Chef Helder Goncalves’ mains which include game, bacon and cider pie or English lamb rack to share with a mutton pasty & bread sauce. TH

WHILE the hearty Mediterranean food is served on the spacious ground floor, there’s something funny happening below stairs. Beneath Lala, the open-kitchen restaurant and cocktail bar on the Hammersmith gyratory, is a lower-ground area which has just been extensively refurbished. “We knocked walls down and completely refitted it with a serious sound system two months ago to create a very different space,” said general manager George Kosma. The downstairs ‘entertainment bar’ can comfortably seat 180, and is fully booked through December for party groups. “Twenty or 30 people can reserve their own party area,” said George. “We have house DJs and a network of comedians to entertain them.” A link-up with the nearby Apollo means that Lala is evolving into the post-comedy night party of choice for top comics performing on stage. “The aim is to be a celebrity spot and private party venue,” said George. Mondays are live music nights, while Thursdays are comedy nights. Last weekend the bar hosted the H&F mayor’s charity event on one evening, and Elton John’s charity night the next.

Best Mangal set to go fourth and conquer Notting Hill Gate FULHAM’s legendary empire of Turkish restaurants has redefined the art of cooking perfectly marinated meat over hot coals. So it’s with some excitement that the popular three-strong family-run restaurant chain has announced it is invading Notting Hill Gate with Best Mangal IV in the spring. The dynasty began in 1996 when Hidir Gurgur and Idrahim Tuac founded the first Best Mangal in 104 North End Road. Jump to 2009 with Hidir’s son Gürsel (inset) in charge, Best Mangal III arrived in 619 Fulham Road after an ambitious £250,000 renovation – including custom shisha-smoking zone. Gürsel, 30, said: “My whole ambition was to change the concept that kebab culture and Turkish food is food for drunks, and instead associate it with a healthy kitchen.” With Chelsea FC star Branislav Ivanovic a big fan, expect to see a Mangal near you soon.

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGs Pages 58-59 Food and drink.indd 2

03/12/2012 11:36:09

The Fish Bowl All leading brands of dog and cat foods, leads, collars and beds.

Tropical and coldwater fish, plants and accessories.

Also cages for birds and hamsters, plus food and vivariums for reptiles.

Visit our fish department for fish bowls, tanks, food and all sizes of pumps and filters.

Lots more in our pet department.

Open 10am-6pm (closed all day Thurs & Sun)

020 7385 6005

133 Dawes Road, Fulham SW6 7EA

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

The White Horse presents...

A TRADITIONAL BRITISH NEW YEAR’S EVE As always, entrance is free, so if you’re coming in for drinks, there’s plenty of room. If you’re looking to eat, you’ll have to book in advance. We have a 3 course menu available throughout. Email: alex@whitehorsesw6.com The BBQ and Hog Roast will be fired up too, so you don’t miss out on the fireworks! Get your dancing shoes on as we have a live act as always.

! ! ! ! ! !

THE WHITE HORSE on Parson’s Green Open from 7pm till late!

! ! !

YOUR MAGS Page 60 Fish Bowl White Horse AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:08:34

THE ANDOVER ARMS London’s hidden gem If you are in search of fresh honest food, top beer and wine, surrounded by great service then The Andover Arms W6 is for you. Tucked away in Brackenbury Village, in the heart of Hammersmith, The Andover is a traditional pub at heart. We are now serving our winter seasonal English food but with a Mediterranean twist, all delivered with exceptional service. And we think that our range of seasonal ales, lagers and fine wines will easily surpass your expectations.

57 Aldensley Road London W6 0DL Tel:Ê020Ê8748Ê2155 andoverarms@gmail.com

BookingsÊveryÊwelcomeÊÊ andÊsometimesÊessentialÊÊ toÊavoidÊdisappointmentÊ

www.theandoverarms.com YOUR MAGS Page 61 Andover Arms AD.indd 1

03/12/2012 11:26:17

THE ULTIMATE ARGENTINE EXPERIENCE

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YOUR MAGS Page 62 Bodeans Buenos Aires AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:09:20

The Price is Right for a Festive Drink! ITALIAN WINES Borolo was ÂŁ20-99 now ÂŁ17-99 Chianti Classico was ÂŁ13-99 now ÂŁ10-99 FRENCH WINES Maison des Bulliats 2011 was ÂŁ13-99 now ÂŁ8-99 A perfect match for turkey and ham Finest Champagne: Taittinger Brut Reserve - award winning champagne (Decanter Bronze) Was ÂŁ32-99 now ÂŁ28-99

ARGENTIAN WINES La Linda Malbec was ÂŁ9-99 now ÂŁ7-99 We also have a great selection of sweet wines to accompany puddings and cheese. As well as a wide range of speciality cheeses from France available to order. Platters supplied. WINE TASTING Saturday 8 December 4pm - 8pm. Join us for some festive spirit! Courtesy of Les Caves de Pyrene.

84 Askew Road, London W12 9BJ 020 8746 1585 t 07718 877 859 (Mob)

Everyt h we pro ing is sim duce ply w love a ith nd passio n

Home-made food to take away Bring some Mediterranean sunshine to your party with a visit to Emiliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Delicatessen - a firm Fulham favourite. The finest salami, Parma ham and other cold meats make a perfect light starter, or for something more substantial, you could opt for our delicious pasta filled with wild mushroom, asparagus, rocket or Ricotta. Home-made tiramisu makes and indulgent dessert and, for a grand finale to assist your dinner party, great cheese is a must - the only problem is deciding which ones to pick. Imported hand-made Buffalo Mozzarella, Pecorino, goat and sheepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milk cheeses and cheese Ă la truffe are highly recommended. Open 7 days a week Mon to Sat 9.0am - 8.00pm Sun 10.00am - 6.00pm

88 New Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, Fulham SW6 4LU 5FM t 'BY

YOUR MAGS Page 63 Askew Wine Emilias AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:10:01

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Christmas at

petit canon Parsons Greenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local wine shop

Christmas Tastings....

A great chance to try new and classic wine and spirits from around the world throughout December. All tastings are held in store.

8th, Saturday 2pm Burgundy Tasting Free 10th, Monday 8pm Port and Cheese ÂŁ5 12th, 7pm Wednesday Christmas Party Free 15th, Saturday 2pm Bordeaux Tasting Free 17th, Monday 8pm Sweet & Sparkling ÂŁ5 We will also be holding free evening tastings every Friday until Christmas.

YOUR MAGS Page 64 Azara Petit CAnon AD.indd 1

Order by 16th Dec. to receive your wine before Christmas!

Where to find us 77 Parsons Green Lane SW6 4JA 0207 7317503 patrick@petitcanon.com

Christmas Offers.... ÂŁ5 OFF Bollinger Brut

Wine & Gift Box Bertiol Prosecco ÂŁ14.95

Now ÂŁ31.95

ÂŁ3 OFF Cune Imperial Gran Reserva

Now ÂŁ12.95

ÂŁ3 OFF Krohn LBV 2004 Port (15.95 in Box)

Christmas Gifts....

Now ÂŁ18.95

Colombe Chablis ÂŁ14.95 Hampers Bollinger Brut Bouree Blanc Bourgogne Chat. La Tour De Monde Margaux Krohn Vintage Port ÂŁ99.95

Many more offers and gift ideas in store.

02/12/2012 15:10:54

YOUR MAGS Page 65 Lala AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:11:27

SPORT

FIXTURE WATCH by Dan levene

>>>>>

Hoops in double derby danger

challenging month awaits the borough’s three Premier League teams, with all hoping to climb up the table. The month brings two west London derbies – with QPR hosting Fulham, before Rangers head off to Stamford Bridge to meet European Champions Chelsea. As well as a hectic league campaign, Chelsea are also in League Cup action away at old foe Leeds United, while they make their first trip to participate in the World Club Cup in Japan (see below).

HIT

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Swedish striker says together with Berbatov the deadly pair can fill the big shoes left by Clint, Bobby and Andy, writes Nick Skoric

Saturday December 8 Wigan (a) Saturday December 15 Fulham (h) Saturday December 22 Newcastle (a) Wednesday December 26 West Bromwich Albion (h) Sunday December 30 Liverpool (h) Wednesday January 2 Chelsea (a)

Monday December 10 Newcastle (h) Saturday December 15 QPR (a) Saturday December 22 Liverpool (a) Wednesday December 26 Southampton (h) Saturday December 29 Swansea (h) Saturday January 1 WEST BROMWICH ALBION (A)

Saturday December 8 Sunderland (a) Thursday & Sunday December 13 & 16 World Club Cup IN JAPAN Wednesday December 19 Leeds (a) Sunday December 13 Aston Villa (h) Wednesday December 26 Norwich (a) Sunday December 30 Everton (a)

Unwelcome distraction of samba and sushi as Blues fly to Japan l Chelsea will battle for the title of World Champions when they fly to Japan this month for the FIFA World Club Cup. As if the European Champions weren’t busy enough at home and in the Champions League, the team are joined by five other continental club champions and the Japanese league champions, for the tournament. The Blues will play their first match on Thursday, December 13, against either Asian Champions League winners Ulsan Hyundai of South Korea, or Mexico’s Monterrey – holders of the central American title. If they win, they will progress to a final on Sunday, December 16, Eden against Copa Hazard and Libertadores the Blues holders, fly off to and south Japan American champions, Corinthians of Brazil.

Chelsea will be based in Yokohama, 30km from Tokyo, where they will play their fixtures in the International Stadium. While the jaunt is a distraction most Blues supporters feel they could do without, under-fire manager Rafa Benitez views it as an opportunity for early silverware. As many as 1,000 fans are expected to make the trip from England – a contingent expected to be dwarfed by the number coming from Sao Paulo club Corinthians. While the Club World Cup is a low-profile tournament in Europe, it is considered the highlight of the year for competing South American sides. More than 20,000 Brazilians are expected to make the long trip across the Pacific, and visiting Chelsea supporters can expect a unique mix of samba and sushi for what promises to be an unusual expedition.

ulham’s latest starlet Alex Kacaniklic had the best seat in the house when Swedish team-mate Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored that overhead wonder goal against England back in November. The enigmatic frontman ignored the 21-year-old as he made a run into the box, and instead guided the ball past Joe Hart with the audacious kick from 30 yards out. That was Kacaniklic’s fourth appearance for his country and a long way from his days in the Liverpool academy where he failed to break into the first team after three years at the club. Now the baby-faced winger is terrorising Premier League defences up and down the country after moving to Craven Cottage alongside Lauri Dalla Valle after they made up part of the deal for Paul Konchesky to go to Merseyside in 2010. Kacaniklic then showed his former employers what they were missing as he helped Fulham to their first league win at Anfield at the end of last season. And he has not stopped since with a dazzling start to the campaign which culminated in a virtuoso goal-scoring display at the Emirates that got people talking about Fulham’s own Kaka – his moniker at the club. His interplay and understanding with ex-Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov ripped the Gunners’ defence apart but the pair’s chemistry was evident from the moment they began to play together as the laidback Bulgarian wizard and the speedy trickster produced a perfect concoction. Fortunately for manager Martin Jol, the Swede also adapted quickly to the high tempo of the Premier League after spending time on loan at Watford last season in the Championship. Kacaniklic said: “I feel like the pace and the physical thing is probably the same as the Championship. It is more the quality. If you lose the ball in the Premier League, in five seconds they score and everyone is looking at you like ‘What did you do?’” After playing the likes of Doncaster Rovers, Kacaniklic is now testing his wits against the minted Manchester City and other big names in the upper echelons of English football. Rich pickings for such a young man, some may say, but the winger of Serbian descent is hoping for more gifts in this festive period on the field after finding it difficult to play at Christmas

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGS Pages 66-67 SPORT football 1-2.indd 1

03/12/2012 11:10:21

MAN

SPORT

Amid the chaos, the quiet man of Stamford Bridge has died at 82

Swedish starlet Alex Kacaniklic has struck up a good partnership with Dimitar Berbatov (inset) PICTURES BY ACTION IMAGES

during the earlier years of his footballing career in England. “I am used to it now. When I first came, when it came to Christmas I wanted to go home to my family and just celebrate Christmas. But I am used to it and it is good we have a lot of games coming up at Christmas,” he said. The family guy seems to have matured since then but got a harsh lesson in dealing with the media when he insists he was misquoted as saying that leaving Liverpool was the best decision of his career. “I said it was the best decision when I left Sweden to go to Liverpool and then I read when I was away with Sweden that the English journalists said I was happy that I quit Liverpool. “I said it worked out well for me that I left Liverpool and went to Fulham. I was not happy with that because I had a good time at Liverpool and unfortunately just never played for the first team. I saw a big chance to come to Fulham and develop even more as a player and get into the first team. It looks like a good decision,” he added. Indeed, that is the case as the wide man may not have three wise men by his side, but he definitely has one on the pitch in Berbatov and another in Jol is always Jol off it. “Jol is a very good coach. He is a father figure or does he sepaon the pitch rate himself from the players? I think in training. He he is a bit of both,” he said. “I have had managers that are always tries never on the pitch and never speak to help you much to the players, but he is always on the pitch in training. In the to improve sessions he helps players out if there is something that he wants to change and he always tries to help you to improve,” said ‘Kaka’. “I want to play every game. I know people say that I am young, but I am 21 and I want to play every game.” The youngster patiently waited for his time to come like a kid on Christmas morning, but it seems the Fulham fans already got an early present in Kacaniklic and will hope he can really make it a merry Christmas down in SW6 during the festive fixtures.

‘‘

Fancy a Whites Christmas? Why not make it a Whites Christmas and visit Craven Cottage in the run up to the festive period? As well as the Xmas fixtures, Fulham FC is also opening the doors to Fulham fans and the general public on Tuesday, December 18, for its annual Christmas at the Cottage event. Santa, Billy the Badger and some of the Fulham FC players will meet and greet, pose for photos and sign items. Free entry. And on Saturday, January 12 at 3pm, Fulham FC take on Wigan Athletic – and kids pay only a quid!

Dave Sexton brought European success to Chelsea in the 70s

he quiet man of football – a world apart from today’s noisy drums and clashing cymbals – died last month. Dave Sexton, who was 82, steered Chelsea to their first European title, the dear old Cup Winners’ Cup, the year after he had masterminded victory in the epic replayed 1970 FA Cup final against Leeds United. Between 1967 and 1974 he managed the Blues with a calm dignity seldom seen in today’s game, although in the sanctity of the dressing room, behind closed doors, that thoughtful, placid facade could give way to no-nonsense diatribes against underperforming players. Chelsea fans have always revered Sexton for those trophies, notably defeating Real Madrid in the final in Athens (another replayed match), while simultaneously excoriating him for flogging legend Peter Osgood to Southampton – an act that provoked demos in Fulham Road. Sexton shuffled across the borough to Loftus Road where, in the 1975/76 season, he fell one point short of pinching the old First Division title from Liverpool with a QPR team which was illuminated by the magic of Stan Bowles. Sexton also spent four years managing Manchester United, a team which wore black armbands in his memory the day after his death was announced. The former Chelsea gaffer was given a minute’s applause at Stamford Bridge, just before Rafa Benitez’s first game in charge, against Manchester City. That tribute broke up the chorus of boos for Benitez... an expression of feeling which continued at the matches against Fulham and West Ham. The managerial merry-goround has seen Hammersmith & Fulham’s three top-flight clubs burn 32 managers in the past 10 years. Tim Harrison

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGS Pages 66-67 SPORT football 1-2.indd 2

03/12/2012 11:11:16

SPORT

WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! Free tickets to the World Series Squash Finals at The Queen’s Club!

You could win tickets to see the action at The Queen’s Club as the top squash players do battle. Left, 2011 champions Amr Shabana and Nicol David

HE world’s top squash players do battle in a 360-degree glass court at Queen’s Club, West Ken, next month… and we have 20 pairs of free tickets to give away! The ATCO PSA World Series squash finals, from January 2-6, feature the top eight men and eight women in the world series rankings, with 2011 champions Amr Shabana and Nicol David aiming to defend their crowns. To be in with a chance of winning tickets, answer this question: Which club hosts the ATCO PSA World Series squash finals? Email your answer, name, address and phone number, to: press.office@lbhf.gov.uk Closing date is December 19. Usual rules apply. For tickets and more details, see: www.worldseriesfinals.com

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGS Page 68 SPORT squash competition.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:21:38

SPORT

‘This is my first world-class opponent. And I should soon be fighting for a world title’ EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Fulham fighter George Groves is aiming to defeat one of the ring’s legends and propel his career upwards. He spoke to Nick Skoric

eorge Groves could be forgiven for thinking someone up above does not like him after an injury-ridden year. But the Fulham boxer and passionate Chelsea FC fan feels he can turn his misfortune round on Saturday, December 15, as he aims to defeat living legend Glen Johnson in the ExCeL arena ring. Not only did the unbeaten Commonwealth super-middleweight champion endure a series of injuries this year, but he was subsequently forced to pull out of a world title clash in April. To compound matters, he was stripped of his British crown in the lead up to his wedding to childhood sweetheart, Sophie. Despite the setbacks, Groves remains focused. The 15-0-0 fighter feels a masterclass display against the Jamaican veteran will set up a bumper 2013 with a world title shot clearly on the horizon. It is no coincidence that WBO champion Arthur Abraham defends his belt on the very same night in Nuremburg, Germany, as Groves’ promoter Frank Warren carves him a path to the top. But the local lad is not looking that far ahead yet, with the most difficult fight of his professional career to come. Groves said: “Johnson has been in with

TALE OF THE TAPE

has not been stopped in the ring since his the best and no one has had an bout with future Hall of Famer Bernard easy night with him in the ring so Hopkins in 1997. I am expecting an extremely hard rounds 73 In More importantly, those recent losses night’s work. George Groves came against world-class opponents such “His work-rate is exceptional has knocked as IBF champion Carl Froch and former and since he has come back out out 12 of his 15 world titleholder Lucian Bute so the Saint of his brief retirement he has the opponents realises he has a tough night’s work on his bit between his teeth again and PICTUREs BY hands and is not underestimating the 43has another chance to enjoy his ACTION IMAGES year-old. boxing, so he is a very dangerous A stoppage win would be a real show opponent.” of intent but what is paramount is that Groves’ Groves added: “He has never been hand is held aloft by the referee at the end of embarrassed in a fight and took our own world the fight. champion Carl Froch the distance the other “I plan to beat him convincingly and set the year, so I cannot afford to take him lightly, but pace on the night but I do not want to disgrace I have youth on my side and will use that to Johnson. I just want to win in a definitive way,” my advantage.” the 24-year-old said. Johnson may have suffered three “I am manoeuvring up the world rankings defeats on the bounce and announced and this is the first world-class opponent that his ‘retirement’ after his last fight in I have faced in my career, so I want to make July, which he lost on points, but he a real impression on the world scene with this fight and as soon as possible I should be fighting for a world title. “I have made big improvements both physically as I have got older and through the training I have been doing, so I am ready for the next step up in my career.” Groves’ last bout was out in California This is the first in July when he beat Francisco Sierra in six world-class rounds with a vicious knock-out victory that his image in the US no harm at all. opponent didTriumph over Johnson and the ex-Dale I’ve faced Youth fighter will certainly have heads turning both at home and over the pond.

‘‘

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

YOUR MAGS Page 69 SPORT Boxing.indd 1

03/12/2012 11:39:08

SUN 9 T H DEC – SUN 23 R D DEC 10AM – NOON AND 1PM TO 5PM EACH DAY LOCATED IN THE STADIUM TOURS & MUSEUM STORE

JUNIOR MEMBERS & UNDER 3S: FREE! NON-JUNIOR MEMBERS: £3 PER CHILD

ENTRY INCLUDES A FREE GIFT MEET THE REINDEERS! JOIN US ON SUNDAY 9TH DEC FOR AN AFTERNOON OF FESTIVE FUN, INCLUDING AN OPPORTUNITY TO FEED SANTA’S REINDEERS IN OUR FESTIVE PADDOCK!

Terms and Conditions 1. Grotto is located inside the Chelsea FC Stadium Tours and Museum Store 2. Junior Members must present their membership card upon arrival to gain free entry 3. Chelsea FC reserve the right to change the advertised times at short notice

True Blue Membership 2012/2013

Book now at www.chelseafc.com/membership or by calling 0871 984 1905

0871 calls cost 10p per minute

YOUR MAGS Page 70 CHELSEA FC halftime ADS.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:12:20

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YOUR MAGS Page 71 Best Mangal AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:12:55

PROPERTY NEWS

The day I laid Kylie’s carpet A family-run Hammersmith business of 21 years standing is so settled that the last time a new staff member joined was 1998! Dan Levene discovered The Carpetstore’s secrets of success and longevity

n more than two decades of selling and laying carpets, The Carpetstore has had its share of interesting clients. “There was a pure white one for Kylie Minogue’s bedroom,” says Hammersmith-born Joe Miller. “That was a popular job when we offered it to the fitters!” Joe continues, reeling off a long list of names: “John Terry, Neneh Cherry, Joanna Lumley, Adrian Chiles, Richard Branson... there have been a few.” The biggest single house they carpeted was a property in Holland Park, owned by a foreign businessman, and valued at £40m. Joe’s long-time colleague Tony Nuttman pitched in: “I went into the basement, and it had 31 rooms. I got lost in the place. The job came to £30,000.” The Carpetstore has been in business for more than 21 years, with stores in King Street and Goldhawk Road, as well as a new store in Teddington. The epitome of a family-run business, Chelsea fan Joe takes charge with his brother Clay. Many of Joe’s bumper collection of signed Chelsea shirts decorate the shop walls – an ice-breaker for customers, no matter which team they support. Both Joe and Tony’s fathers have worked for the company, and their team of fitters is trusted and long-serving – the most recent new member of staff joined 14 years ago. “Worryingly, we have just worked out that our staff have more than 200 years experience,” Joe says. “We are a friendly family firm who rely on our good name and service. “Unlike some of the chain stores, we don’t have any salesmen,” says Joe. “We work with the customer to find their needs – this is about getting something right for them. So much of our business is returning trade, so we know people like the way we do things. “We do all our own fitting, and our fitters have worked here for a long time – which I think is important, because people expect to have trusted fitters if they are going to be in their homes, perhaps when they’re not there. “Another thing people are surprised by is that, unlike some of the big chains, we don’t have sales, we just get the best price for the customer the whole year around. “We try to offer a genuine service, and as a locally run business we think we offer something a bit special.” l The Carpetstore is located at 167 King Street, Hammersmith W6 (020 8563 2221) and 156 Goldhawk Road W12 (020 8749 9340) or visit: www.thecarpetstore.info

Your Hammersmith & Fulham Magazine

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03/12/2012 10:25:43

When it came to fitting Kylie’s carpet, the men were fighting for the job, recalls Joe Miller (pictured left) of The Carpetstore

PROPERTY NEWS

A childhood home where a youthful wizard spent most of his early years

Daniel’s house in Sherbrooke Road

ou’ll need a loan from Gringotts Wizarding Bank if you’re thinking of buying Harry Potter’s childhood home. Estate agent Chesterton Humberts is selling the Fulham house where actor Daniel Radcliffe grew up – a terraced house with extended kitchen – for £1,175,000. Unlike 4 Privet Drive in Little Whinging, Surrey (the detached 70s home of Vernon and Petunia Dursley, where ‘Harry’ lived from 1981), 12 Sherbrooke Road is a sturdy, Victorian house, with bay window. In the books and films, Harry initially lived in the hall cupboard, until Vernon became concerned about possible magical intervention if they knew the young wizard was being badly treated… and moved him upstairs. In reality, Daniel slept in one of the four upstairs bedrooms at Sherbrooke Road, off Dawes Road, in what estate agents sometimes call Munster village, a 10-minute stroll to Fulham Broadway tube. The Dursleys’ imaginary home had a conservatory and shed, and is modelled on a house where author JK Rowling once lived in near Bristol. The house number was chosen deliberately. “I’ve never been fond of ‘four’, which struck me as a hard and unforgiving number… which is why I slapped it on the Dursleys’ front door,” she once said. The paved garden of Daniel Radcliffe’s childhood home has a shed, and is overlooked by the spire of St Thomas of Canterbury Roman Catholic church. The hall cupboard has been turned into a compact loo. Tim Harrison l Interested? Call Chesterton Humberts sales, 654 Fulham Road, SW6 (020 7384 Daniel Radcliffe 9898) as Harry Potter

YOUR MAGS Pages 72-73 carpet store kylie.indd 2

03/12/2012 15:45:40

138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD, LONDON W6 7PB T 020 7371 4171 E sales@finlaybrewer.co.uk W www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

LETTINGS

ADDISON GARDENS W14

SINCLAIR ROAD W14

GUIDE £499 PW / £2,162 PCM

GUIDE £525 PW / £2,275 PCM

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YOUR MAGS Pages 74-75 Finlay Brewer AD.indd 1

02/12/2012 15:13:40

SALES

SINCLAIR ROAD W14

DALLING ROAD W6

GUIDE £650,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD

GUIDE £485,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD/LEASEHOLD

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YOUR MAGS Pages 74-75 Finlay Brewer AD.indd 2

02/12/2012 15:13:58

Fulham | Parsons Green Hammersmith | Shepherd’s Bush Barons Court | Ravenscourt Park

Hello! We would like to introduce ourselves as Hammersmith & Fulham’s newest letting agent and property manager, Belvoir! With over 15 years’ experience and 145 locally-owned and managed branches across the country, we are an award-winning national network with the key beneﬁt of local insight. The tree-lined streets of Victorian terraces, red brick mansion blocks and stucco townhouses all give our neighbourhood its distinct character and us our passion for property. We are proud to be the lettings specialist, offering a professional yet personal service to Landlords and Tenants. If you are thinking of letting your property or renting a property this year, please get in touch and give us the chance to show you what we can do. To book your free, no-obligation property appraisal and up to date rental valuation or register your property search requirements, please call us on 020 7736 2786 or pop into our Fulham Road ofﬁce.

We look forward to meeting you!

Duncan Crossey Local Owner & Director

632 Fulham Road | London | SW6 5RT 020 7736 2786 | fulham@belvoirlettings.com

www.belvoirlettings.com/fulham YOUR MAGS Page 76 Belvoir AD.indd 1

03/12/2012 11:14:54

LANDLORDS AND PROPERTY INVESTORS WINTER’S HERE… For an expert view on this season’s ever-changing lettings market, please call Belvoir! and speak to our specialists. Our professional advice is provided confidentially, free and without obligation. We look forward to assisting you soon. 632 Fulham Road | London | SW6 5RT 020 7736 2786 | fulham@belvoirlettings.com

www.belvoirlettings.com/fulham YOUR MAGS Page 77 Belvoir AD 2.indd 1 5982 Belvoir Chelsea and Fulham H&F Your Magazine Advert v1.indd 2

03/12/2012 11:16:30 03/12/2012 10:56

Will 2013 look a lot like 2012 in the local housing market? The answer is YES. After another busy year at Horton and Garton we are expanding our team. Do I sound surprised? Well, to be honest I am. Like any small business owner, these are nerve-wracking economic times that are seeing households fret about cash, jobs and pensions. But when it comes to the West London property market, it seems that those uncertainties are actually fuelling a boom in prices - and this will continue into 2013. Confused yet? The acute shortage of properties is distorting the local housing market - particularly when it comes to onebedroom flats, or the bottom-rung of the property ladder. People just aren’t selling and instead they are renting them out and keeping them as investments. Add to that the falling numbers of genuine first-time buyers who have scrapped together enough for a deposit, regardless of the attractive rates, and it’s forcing up the price of renting, which is fuelling speculative buying, and the shortage gets more acute. Welcome to 2013. So, it’s not a great time to be renting. And 2013 won’t be great either. But for those who own properties and rent them out, find yourself good tenants and life becomes a lot easier. For buyers, it’s the same problem. There is a lack of properties on the market for families. Every developer who divided

big properties into three small flats is kicking themselves or furiously trying to piece them back together for the big payday of selling a Zone 2 family home in the ever-improving and fabulously well-connected area of Hammersmith and Shepherds Bush. The worse the economy gets, the more W6 and W12 are insulated from the problem by London’s attractiveness to foreign buyers, job seekers and for those with Zone 1 lifestyles but Zone 2 money. Interestingly, the biggest surprise this year was the arrival of the West London Free School. All the talk at the school gate is about school places. It’s such a big factor around here. People have been moving to the area from Kensington and Chelsea to rent because of the new free school, which is really proving a lure. Hammersmith is officially becoming more fashionable, and more family-friendly. People used to move to places like Chiswick or Fulham, but now people aren’t moving away from W6. And those who cannot afford Hammersmith are seeking to buy on the other side of Goldhawk Road - with handy profits being made on unmodernised houses and flats in streets near Cathnor Park and Wendell Park. Just look around the streets of W6 and W12 and you will see plenty of skips and scaffolding. This is not just properties trading hands, its families expanding their homes rather than get hit with a big Stamp Duty fees to move a few streets.

And lo and behold, even the number of basement conversions is on the rise, something that was previously believed to be uneconomic in anything but the top areas of Hammermsith. However, it’s not all up, up and away. Rather, because every buyer is counting their pennies, there is a better sense of realistic valuations in the market. Market your property at the wrong price point and you’ll either be laughed at or you’ll have to replace the carpets because of the number of viewings your estate agent has done. So here is the most important lesson learned in 2012, which will serve you even better in 2013: know your market. And once you’ve done your homework, whether you are buying, selling or renting, find a local estate agent who knows the area. People are more and more particular about the area where they want to live, and that’s something we understand at Horton & Garton, where all our staff live locally and know the area. So when it’s your turn to make the leap into the property market, come talk to the local experts. John Horton MNAEA MARLA is Director of Horton and Garton Estate Agents 176 King Street, Hammersmith, W6 0RA Tel 020 8819 0510 john@hortonandgarton.co.uk www.hortonandgarton.co.uk

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our clients for their business throughout 2012. We look forward to continuing to work with you all in 2013. On behalf of all the members of the sales and lettings team, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. John Horton

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03/12/2012 14:30:45

MEET THE TEAM FOR 2013 MELISSA began working for Horton and Garton in March 2011. With an impressive estate agent record, she prides herself in expanding her knowledge within this industry in order to provide a professional and efficient service to all clients and tenants here at Horton and Garton. She now keeps track of all landlord, tenant, and contractor payments and we currently have no tenants who are late on their rent. Mel has effectively kept up this record since she started.

Director and owner of the family business, JOHN Horton has lived and worked in Hammersmith for sixteen years and during this time has amassed a wealth of property experience exclusively within the W6 and W12 areas. Horton and Garton are the local agents and we have put together a team who excel at their work, offering a personable and most importantly, a professional service.

JAMES is originally from a small town in west Oxfordshire but made the move to London and work at Horton and Garton in August 2012. Originally hired in an administration role, James has taken on more and more and is now responsible for marketing, advertising, and social media at Horton and Garton. After flourishing in his new role, James is looking to further expand his knowledge in advertising and marketing and help the business grow and move forward.

LATHAM was born and bred in west London and has an in depth knowledge of the local area and the mortgage market. His company, Bespoke Mortgages, has now been established for 8 years and he has been working closely with Horton and Garton since the agency opened in 2008. Previous to this, Latham worked with John Horton for nearly ten years and so is a trusted adviser within his field.

After graduating at Vilnius University in 2005, GERMAN started his career at a property management company. In 2012, he moved to London and after gaining ARLA property and block management qualifications, joined the Horton and Garton later in the year. German is responsible for the property management side of the business, and his problem-solving abilities and hands-on approach ensure that issues are addressed and solved promptly and professionally.

MARTIN grew up in the south west of England and was educated at Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Taunton, Somerset. Inspired by his father, a chartered surveyor, Martin chose the property route for his career. He later moved to west London and has been working on King Street, Hammersmith for the last seven years, being at Horton and Garton from Day One. His commitment to the role blended with his knowledge of the local area has been integral to the growing success of the business.

ASHLEY grew up in west London, attended school locally and continues to support his local team Queens Park Rangers. Ashley started his estate agent career in Hammersmith, working with John Horton and joining Horton and Garton in 2009. Ashley is an ARLA and MNAEA qualified member and, as our Lettings Manager, he is always ready to use his knowledge and experience to the benefit of our landlord clients.

Local to west London, HONOR began working at Horton and Garton under an apprentice scheme early in 2011 and was soon offered a full time position as a trainee estate agent. Since then, she has gone on to pass her ARLA examinations and is now an integral part of the lettings team, developing an expert knowledge of the business from her senior colleagues. She is now proving to be one of the most competent estate agents working on King Street.

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03/12/2012 11:01:16

wish you a fun filled

festive season YOUR MAGS Page 80 Horton Garton BACK PAGE AD.indd 1

03/12/2012 10:58:54